Shamrock Magic
Turn This Shamrock Green
Stare at the center of this red shamrock for at least 30 seconds, then look quickly at a blank sheet of white paper and focus on one spot. A green shamrock should show up within a few seconds. Have your kids try it. You can tell them it’s Irish magic, or you can explain how it really works. » Read more
Family Superbowl Parties
Tips for a Family Superbowl Party
A Superbowl party is all about football. You have built-in entertainment and low pressure to get people to dance or chitchat, so it's a perfect opportunity to host a stress-free party.
The key is stress-free. Don't go overboard with decor or cleaning. Just make sure you have space in the coat closet. Light a smelly candle in the bathroom (obviously don't do this unless it is safe from kidlets) OR pop up some popcorn for good smells when people walk in. » Read more
Top Tips for Balancing Budget & Family with Ease
From bringing the kids to after-school activities, to shopping for everyday family meals, the challenge of keeping the family organized and on a budget can be a source of stress for any busy mom. Get it all done without sacrificing quality time with the family. I'm pleased to be partnering with Safeway, which is making a concerted effort to make our lives easier and helping us shop smarter. » Read more
Free Things to Do With Kids in January
NW Kids Picks: Free (or Cheap) Things to Do in Portland This Month
Get Wordy
Free story times are in abundance every day of the week, at the public libraries, bookstores and many other shops. Our new fave in the Alberta area is the cozy reading room at Green Bean Books, which offers a weekly story time on Tuesday mornings at 11.
Thank You Notes For Kids
Thank You Notes From Kids
The holidays have wrapped up, and the kids have received their loot. It’s a great time to start instilling good manners in your children, starting with the art of the thank you note. Being able to write a well-penned note “is so important all through life, especially in business situations,” says Melanie Perko, who teaches manners courses for children and adults in Portland. “People who are refined get noticed.” » Read more
2009 Book Picks for Teens, Middle Readers, and Kids
Librarian Nancy Pearl's 2009 Under-The-Radar Books
by Nancy Pearl
From a segment that appeared on NPR, December 10, 2009
Teen Book Pooks
Going Bovine
Going Bovine, by Libba Bray, hardcover, 496 pages, Delacorte, list price: $17.99
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Recycle Your Tree / Packaging / Xmas Detritus
Where to Recycle Your Christmas Tree and Packaging in Portland Metro Area
When the tree is dropping needles and the presents have all been opened, it means the holidays are winding down and it’s time to clear out the holiday wrappings and trappings. Fortunately, a lot of it can be recycled or reused, and Metro can help residents with information on how to do that. » Read more
Oldman Pass (or Old Man Pass)
For a Sledding Alternative to Mt. Hood, try Oldman Pass in Southern Washington
Oldman Pass is your peaceful alternative to heading up to Mt Hood. Perfect for first-time sledders who want an uncrowded experience in nature. There is a gentle slope, which one can't actually call a hill. It's perfect for a three-year-old and/or nervous parents. Older children might want more action. » Read more
Sherman Clay offer Piano Concerts + piano rental
7th Annual Holiday Concert
Thursday, December 3, 2009
6pm
Featuring: The LeRoi Nickel Piano Duo & jazz/salsa pianist, Ramsey Embick; & The Portland Boychoir
Free of Charge » Read more
OCT's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory A Delicious Treat
Family Outing to OCT's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
On Saturday, Halloween day, I escorted my miniature bride (six) and muscular spidey (four ad a half) to the opening matinee of Oregon Children's Theater's production of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." It was a special treat and a wonderful outing! » Read more
