Gimme 5 Friday!

It's Friday and we've got FIVE fun activities for you around town. Click on the highlighted links to get more info!

1. Celebrate Fall by making an Autumn Tree Collage at Lakeshore Learning in East Cobb. FREE workshop from 11am-3pm on Saturday.

2. See a movie!

• Children's Saturday Cinema at the Central Library: Mary Poppins at 3pm on Saturday
• Sherlock Holmes Film Festival at East Cobb Library at 2pm on Saturday
• Madagascar 3 at The Picture Show at Merchant's Exchange - showtimes vary so visit movies.com to check times

3. Fun with Food!

• Celebrate Fall and have fun with apples at Harry's Farmers Market during their Healthy Eating Kid's Club at 1:30 Saturday. Best to call ahead so they can be sure they have enough for everyone but drop-ins are welcome.
• Make Your Own Healthy Wrap Fundraiser at Whole Foods at Merchant's Walk from 11am-2pm on Saturday. For only $3 each, make your own wrap for lunch - fun way to get kids to experiment and try new foods. Proceeds go to the Whole Kids Foundation in support of school garden grants and salad bars. 

4. Enjoy a fun day on Sunday at East Cobb Park's Sunday Funday from 4pm-7pm. Pack your picnic and enjoy the evening set to music and fun!

5. Field Trip!

• Going on all weekend - Fall Fun on the Farm! Corn Maze, farm tours, and evening Bonfire Hayrides at Cagle's Family Farm. Check online for schedule of activities & ticket prices
• Atlanta History Center's Fall Folklife Festival Saturday from 10:30-4:30. Traditional cooking, craft, farming, and blacksmith demos, music, food for purchase, and more! Included with admission. If you haven't been to AHC with your kids, check out my "Beyond Cobb" Guide.

There is a lot going on this weekend! If you are looking for something else, be sure to check out our website calendar and follow us on Facebook for daily posts.

Happy September

It’s not just the cooler temps headed our way we are excited about!

1. Library storytimes and activities are back! Click HERE to find what's happening this month at your favorite branch.

2. Cobb County Touch-A-Truck at Town Center Mall on September 29th. Explore all kids of things with wheels!  Military, emergency, construction vehicles too-boot. $5 a person or $20 a family. Proceeds benefit Cobb County Safety Village.

3. Magic Monday at Atlanta History Center returns on September 10th. This fun mommy & me program designed for preschoolers happens on the 2nd Monday of each month with special themes to explore AHC indoors and out! Another "Don't Miss" this month at the Atlanta History Center is the Fall Folklife Festival on September 22nd.

4. Brown Bag Lunch Concerts at the Marietta Square each Thursday from 12-1pm! Pack your snacks and bring friends for a playdate set to music.

5. Sunday Fundays from 4-7pm at East Cobb Park each Sunday starting September 9th until end of October - playground time, music and fun!

Fall Consignment Sales - August!

The savings are HOT this August. The month is PACKED with consignment sales for all things kids, babies & teens. The list is so long, I will post just the upcoming sales each week. If you want to see upcoming sales in advance, check our website calendar!

What: Divine Children’s Show - the South’s MOST EXCLUSIVE high-end consignment and overstock event, specializing in trunk show and boutique lines.

When: August 22nd: 9:30am - 9pm
              August 23rd: 9:30am - 2pm

Where: The Mansour Center, 
995 Roswell Street, Marietta

The Rules:

• Cash, checks, Mastercard & Visa accepted 
• Only umbrella strollers are allowed at the Preview Show or for the first day of shopping until noon. 

What’s Cool:

• New moms can shop early at 6pm on the 21^st with registration
• Bring Grandma along and you can shop Preview Night on the 21^st at 7pm, registration for early shopping with Grandma is required by emailing divineconsignshowatlanta@yahoo.com.

Bookmark it: www.dcskids.com

Like ‘em: The Divine Children's Show on Facebook

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What: Kids Consignment Sale – 140 sellers of gently used baby & children's clothing sizes 0-14, gear, toys and furnitur

Where: The Episcopal Church of St. Peter & St. Paul - 1795 Johnson Ferry Road, Marietta

When: Aug 23rd: 9am - 4pm

Aug 24^th : 9am - 12pm

The Rules:

• No strollers before 11am on Friday
• Everything 30% off Saturday
• Cash, Checks, Credit Cards accepted.

Bookmark It: www.spspkids.com
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What: Pass It On Children's Consignment Sale: Gently used Premium Kids, Junior & Maternity Clothing, Toys, Books, Games, DVD's, Sports Equipment, Infant Furniture & accessories and more!

Where: Acworth UMC, 4340 Collins Circle, Acworth

When: August 24^th : 9am - 6:30pm

   August 25^th : 9am - 12pm

The Rules:

• Accepts Visa, MC & Debit cards on purchases over $25

What’s Cool:

• Proceeds go to Children's & Family Ministry, AUMC Choirs, Local & Foreign Missions
• Many items 1/2 off on Saturday

Bookmark It: Pass It On Children's Consignment Sale

Like 'em: Pass It On Consignment Sale on Facebook

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What: Mt. Bethel Children’s Consignment Sale: 400 sellers consign spring and summer children’s clothing, toys, books, furniture, and more.

Where: Mt. Bethel UMC, 4385 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta

When: August 24^th : 9:30am - 7pm

August 25^th : 9am - 12pm

The Rules:

• No children allowed on the sales floor until 12pm on Friday (except babies in slings or front/back packs). They are providing a loving nursery from 8:30am-12pm for $4 per hour, per child, with an $8 per hour family maximum. Nursery is available for this event, but registration is required. Please contact Mt. Bethel Nursery Coordinator to reserve a spot.
• Cash or Check only!

What’s Cool:

• They also have a boutique section for upscale brands, custom-made, and smocked clothing.
• You can also purchase “bribes” for your kids or treats to refuel at their bake sale! 
• On Saturday, everything is 30% off.
• All proceeds go to support local and global missions to benefit families and children of all ages.
• New moms can shop on the 23^rd, click here to find out how! 

Bookmark It: Mt. Bethel Children's Consignment Sale

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What: Lil’ Blessings Consignment Sale: gently used children (infant to teen) and maternity clothes, toys, books, infant items (furniture, accessories, etc.), games, sports equipment, DVD’s, and so much more!

When: August 24^th: 9am - 7pm

            August 25^th: 9am - 1pm

Where: Kennesaw First Baptist Church, 2958 N Main St, Kennesaw

The Rules:

What’s Cool:

• Many items ½ off on Saturday

Bookmark it: Lil’ Blessings Consignment Sale

Flyer: Click here for event flyer!

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What: Northwest Atlanta Moms of Multiples Tots to Tweens Consignment Sale

When: August 24th: 7pm-9pm (special pass holders - see below - and club members)
            August 25^th: 9am - 2pm (early admittance for pass holders and club members)

Where: Sandy Plains Baptist Church, 2825 Sandy Plains Rd, Marietta

The Rules:

• Strollers welcome
• Cash and Check Only – bring proper ID if using a check

What’s Cool:

• You can shop the day before from 7pm-9pm and starting at 8:30am on Saturday the 25^th with a Friends & Family Pass – get this special pass from Cobb Tots & Kids facebook page starting August 20th!

Bookmark It:  www.NOWAMOM.org

Like them: NOWAMOM Kids Consignment Sale on Facebook

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What: Giggles & Grace Children’s Consignment Sale - “one stop shop” for everything kid-related - from clothing to toys to bedding and everything in between.

When: August 24^th : 9am-7pm

            August 25^th  : 8am-1pm

Where: Sixes Presbyterian Church, 2335 Sizes Road, Canton

The rules:

• STROLLERs are WELCOME
• Cash and Credit Cards only

What’s Cool:

• Lots of items 1/2 price on Saturday
• Help by donating an item from the following list and gain access to the preview sale on THURSDAY, August 23rd, from 6:30pm - 8:30pm: 10 canned goods, One pack of New Men's socks, One pack of New Men's t-shirts or One pack of New Men's underwear

Bookmark it: Giggles & Grace Consignment Sale

Like ‘em: Giggles & Grace on Facebook

Daily Picks for this Week! July 23-27

Our daily guide to fun! Click on the highlighted links for find out more. Don't mean to frighten you...or excite you (depends on your perspective!) but there are only 3 more weeks of summer for Cobb County School children!

MONDAY: Creative Thinking Storytime at Learning Express in Woodstock & West Cobb Locations at 11am for ages 5+ - FREE!


TUESDAY:

•  One of my favorite characters is in the spotlight during Barnes & Noble's FREE Storytime at 11am at their Town Center Prado location. Find out what happens to Harry when he travels to the beach with his family in Harry by the Sea. This book will make a great storytime for ages 5-8! 
• Get a taste of different cultures without a plane ticket at West Cobb Regional Library's Multicultural Extravaganza from 3pm-5pm. FREE, Open to all ages & just show up - nor pre-registration required 

WEDNESDAY: Grab a cheap seat on Regal's Summer Movie Express! Kids 12+ will enjoy the fairy tale character twists in Hookwinked Too showing at Regal's Town Center Stadium showing at 10am. Tickets are $1.


THURSDAY: Let your kids go Kung-Fu crazy at "Karate for Kids" at the Ben Robertson Community Center in Kennesaw at 9am. FREE sample classes this month for kids and adults to celebrate National Parks & Recreation Month!


FRIDAY:

• Have fun with food at Whole Kids Club from 3pm-4pm at Whole Foods at Merchant's Walk. FREE and it's best to pre-register (in store or call 678-996-9700) so they can plan. It's ok to just drop-in but be on time because space is limited! 
• Take part in live-action drills, challenges and on-field demonstrations! Learn more about Kennesaw's sports leagues & classes during their Youth Sports Spectacular from 6pm-9pm at Adams Park. Afterwards, hang around for an outdoor movie. Journey2: The Mysterious Island rated PG is showing at dusk! 

Plan Ahead:
Outdoor Romping & Stomping Series: July 30, July 31st
Chattahoochee Nature Center Olympics: July 28


Be sure you follow us on Facebook for more summer fun ideas. Be sure to check our calendar often since we are always updating as we find fun.

Gimme 5 Friday

FIVE FUN & FREE ideas for your weekend! Click on the highlighted link to learn more.

1. Kid's Fishing Rodeo at Lost Mountain Park from 9:00am-11am Saturday.

2. Free Classes Saturday at Ben Robertson Community Center in Kennesaw to celebrate National Parks & Recreation Month:

• KidzArt Demo (Class) from 9:15 to 10 a.m.
• Jump Rope Jam (Workout) from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

3. Wear your favorite Hero Costume to the Touch-A-Truck event at Roswell Corners Chick-fil-A 4pm-7pm Saturday. (FREE)

4. Create an Olympic Torch at Lakeshore Learning Saturday from 11am-3pm to inspire your family to take part in your own Backyard Olympics (FREE)

5. Pack a picnic and enjoy an Outdoor Movie at Roswell's Riverside Park. Puss in Boots (PG) starts at dusk.

Be sure to check our website calendar for even more to do this weekend!

Gimme 5 Friday!

Five fun things to do this weekend! Click on the highlighted link to learn more.

1. Its a "Day of Discovery for Kids" at the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site in Cartersville. On Saturday from 1-3pm, kids will learn what archaeology is from a professional archaeologist. Hear about history and see real artifacts. Take part in mock excavations and learn how to clean and identify treasures that you find. COST: $3.50-$5.00 770-387-3747. 813 Indian Mounds Rd., S.W., Cartersville.

2. Hear ye, Hear ye, you are invited to join the Royal Court...well, actually it's the Upper level of the JC Penney Wing at Town Center Mall but a grand event just the same! Simon Kidgits Club Prince & Princess Party is Saturday from 1pm-3pm. The festivities will include special prizes, fun activities and a DJ! Wear your favorite prince/princess costume OR your Kidgits shirt, to receive a special prize (while supplies last). COST: FREE for current Kidgits Club Members; $5 for nonmembers includes an entire year of fun activities!

3. Meet the Author Event at the Town Center Prado Barnes & Noble Saturday at 11am. Author Anthony Pearson will read his new book, Baby Bear Eats the Night. He will also sign copies for sale. COST: FREE

4. Enjoy all things butterfly this weekend at the Butterfly Festival at the Chattahoochee Nature Center on Saturday (10am-3pm) & Sunday (12pm – 5pm). Be a part of butterfly releases & encounters, crafts & face painting, sidewalk art & fairy house construction. Enjoy live entertainment, food trucks and so much more! Little ones can wear their butterfly or caterpillar costumes and take part in the Butterfly and Caterpillar Costume Parade. Go online to find schedule of the weekend activities! COST: 
$10 General Public/$8 CNC Members 

5. Get creative and leave the mess on someone else's floor!! FREE crafts for kids around town this weekend.

• Michael's Passport to Imagination is taking everyone to Japan from 1-4pm Saturday.
• Kids can make "My Pet Fish" with their handprint from 11am-3pm at Lakeshore Learning East Cobb on Saturday
• Lowe's is celebrating kid's favorite movie characters this summer. This month's project at Lowe’s Build & Grow Workshop for Kids is a "Kung Fu Panda Spinning Attack" on Saturday at 10 and Sunday at 2pm. Register online!

Looking for something else? Check our website calendar & follow us on Facebook!

Getting Crafty

Whole Kids Foundation has partnered with ScrapKins to provide a monthly project that promotes healthy eating & reusing common household materials to explore creativity. I discovered ScrapKins posted on Whole Foods Merchant's Walk Facebook page and I knew it would be a hit at my house! My son loves making something from nothing. :)

Whole Kids Foundation & Scrapkin's Hands-On Projects - Making a Bee Colony!

The ScrapKins Build-It Blog

Daily Picks for July 9-13

Our daily guide to fun! Click on the highlighted links for find out more.

MONDAY: Creative Thinking Storytime at Learning Express in Woodstock at 11am. Every Monday in July! 

• Enjoy Dinner at the Depot in Downtown Kennesaw tonight (and every Monday) from 5-8pm. Everyone can take their pick from the variety of food trucks. After dinner, burn off the last bit of energy at the Depot Playground before heading home for PJ time. Follow them on Facebook to get the scoop on what trucks will be there or weather cancellations. 

TUESDAY: Come play with food at Whole Kids Summer Camp at Harry’s Farmers Market for kids ages 5-10 from 10:30-11:30. FREE and you can drop-in but because space is limited it’s best to call ahead to let them know you are coming: 770-578-4400. Parent’s you can drop & shop – pick up what you need for dinner while the kids have fun.

• Beyond Cobb Adventure! Pack a picnic and enjoy FREE “Music at Noon” while you munch your lunch at Centennial Park. Then walk across the street to Imagine It’s Target FREE Tuesday from 1-4pm. 

WEDNESDAY: Keep it Cool with a classic! Watch Charlotte’s Web at the Central Library at 2pm.

• Just for moms! Grab your BFF's for Girl's Night Out on Wednesday at Studio Movie Grill in Alpharetta. The chick flick classic this month is Notting Hill and starts at 7:30. Tickets are only a buck! Get there early to enjoy drinks and appetizers together. 

THURSDAY: Get your Passport to Imagination and travel to Russia. Stop by your favorite Michael’s Craft Store between 2-4pm to make a fuzzy bear – a national symbol of Russia. FREE!

FRIDAY: Get Crazy as a Loom! Register by July 11 (770-427-4686) for this fun craft activity for kids using a cardboard loom & yarn at the Kennesaw Mountain Visitor Center at 10am. FREE!

Plan Ahead:
Outdoor Romping & Stomping Series: July 11, July 18th, July 30, July 31st
Family Camp at Red Top Mountain: July 16-20
Fishing Rodeo: July 21 (FREE!)

Be sure you follow us on Facebook for more summer fun ideas. Be sure to check our calendar often since we are always updating as we find fun.

Gimme 5 Friday

Five fun things to do this weekend! Click on the highlighted links to find out more.

1. Kids Karate on Saturday at 10:00am at the Ben Robertson Center. Kennesaw Parks & Recreation is celebrating Parks & Recreation Month by offering a calendar full of FREE Drop-In classes for kids & adults at the community center and their parks. Click HERE to get the calendar and try something new this month!

2. Send Dad to your neighborhood Home Depot with the kids to build a Moving Truck Saturday morning while you relax (HA- yeah right! Catch up on laundry, dishes, paperwork, vacuum, mop, change sheets…) Kids workshop is from 9am-12pm...drop-in anytime but give yourself plenty of time to finish the project. Our experience with these FREE fun workshops – the later you go, the more crowded.

3. Head to the mountains and make tasty treats that your backyard birds will love. Red Top Mountain is hosting a kid’s Pine Cone Birdfeeder Workshop from 3pm-4pm on Saturday. Meet at the park office. The cost for the workshop is $1 (plus $5 State Park Parking fee). Make a day of it and enjoy a hike on one of their trails before or after the workshop. Address for GPS: 50 Lodge Rd SE, Cartersville

4. B at the Movies is at East Cobb Park Saturday for Movie Night! Bring the family out for Rio. Music by B98.5 begins at 7:30, movie starts at dusk. Event is FREE but Friends for the East Cobb Park will  host a concession stand to benefit the park. Arrive early for a picnic & beat the crowds!

5. Insect Field Day for ages 7+ at the Chattahoochee Nature Center on Sunday from 10:30am-11:30am. Observe and identify insects you collect in nets and learn why these small creatures are vital to our world. Stick around for a guided trail hike at 1pm. Both activities are included with admission: $8 for adults, $5 for kids ages 3-12, 2 and under FREE.

Looking for something different? Check our website calendar & follow us on Facebook to find the fun!

Daily Picks for July 2-6

Here are our picks for the week! Click on the highlighted link to learn more. Remember to check our website calendar for even more fun during the week!

MONDAY: "Page to Screen" Movie Series for Teens (ages 13+) at 3pm Mountain View Library. Watch your favorite page turners on the big screen weekly through July! For the younger ones, head to PLAY in Roswell for their FREE weekly storytime at 10:30. Only pay if you stay but on Mondays in July it’s only $5 per child for open play! Craft room is also open from 10:30-3pm and is included if you pay & stay for open play.

TUESDAY: Don’t need a passport to travel to this week’s pick for Tuesday! Michael’s Passport to Imagination destination: USA! From 1pm-4pm make a Patriotic Flag in honor of 4th of July. If you prefer to celebrate July 4th on the 3rd, head to Kennesaw for their Salute to America celebration from 6pm-11pm!

WEDNESDAY: Celebrate the 4th! Take your pick of local festivals & fireworks

• 4th in the Park (Marietta square) 
• Freedom Fest (Woodstock) 
• Roswell’s Fireworks Extravaganza (Roswell) 
• July Fourth Concert and Fireworks (Cauble Park in Acworth) 
• Fourth of July Celebration (Wills Park in Alpharetta) 

THURSDAY: Sleep in and get to bed early to make up for your late night of celebrating! Enjoy a museum together. Locally, head to The Southern Museum in Kennesaw for their weekly Mommy & Me program at 10:00am or 11:30am. This week learn what will you need for a Civil War camping trip during “A-Camping We Will Go”. Beyond Cobb it’s Toddler Thursday at the High Museum. Drop-in from 11am-3pm for “Butterfly” themed activities & craft.

FRIDAY: Take a Twilight Hike at Red Top Mountain from 7:30pm-9pm. Start the night off in the Discovery Room at the Visitor Center. You’ll meeting one of Georgia's native snakes and then follow a Park Ranger on a moderate, 1-mile hike. COST: $1 plus $5 parking.

Know of a fun event but don't see it here? Email me at cobbtotsnkids@gmail.com. 

Cheap Seats to Beat the Heat - June 30th

Picture Show at Merchant's Exchange is showing the following family-friendly movies:

• The Lorax
• Mirror, Mirror
• The 3 Stooges
• Pirates, Band of Misfits

Click here to see today's showtimes! Not sure these movies are ok of your kids...I love  iMom's Movie Monitor

Mountain View Library has Beat the Heat Movies for Teens (ages 13 to adults) showing at 3pm. Today's flick is Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close (PG-13)

Studio Movie Grill in Alpharetta has KidToons today at 11am. Strawberry Shortcake's Bloomin' Berry Garden is showing - tickets only $2 each.

Gimme 5…

Free & Fun Things to Do This Weekend 


1. Barnes & Noble at Town Center Prado is celebrating 20 years of Junie B Jones at 2pm on Saturday for a fun celebration with activities, refreshments and prizes! They also have their regular storytime at 11am and they'll be reading Little Mouse and the Big Cupcake.

2. Starlight Summer Concert Series: Star Spangled Spectacular at Kennesaw State University Campus Green at 8pm Saturday featuring Georgia Symphony Orchestra playing a mix of Broadway, Americana, and patriotic favorites, capped off with a roaring fireworks display!

3. Kennesaw’s Rock to the Top at Swift-Cantrell Park - A full-day of live music, children's activities & delicious food (while supplies last) -- ALL FREE, and designed to support the park in its quest to be named "America's Favorite Park". Five talented bands/musicians will take the stage from 12 to 8 p.m Saturday. Vote now for the park by visiting www.livepositively.com/parks.

4. Get ready for the 4th during Lakeshore Learning’s FREE crafts for kids from 11-3pm. Make a Star-Spangled Shaker to add some fun to your 4th of July celebration!

5. Unity North Fun Fest from 10am-4pm. Due to the extreme heat expected Saturday this festival has been moved indoors! Come out and play and enjoy the day with your Unity North family and members of the community. Fun for all ages.


BONUS: Ok, It's really 6 free things to do because I just saw this sign as I was driving around this morning! Cool Ride Classic Cruise In at Sandy Plains Baptist Church in Marietta from 10am-2pm Saturday. 


Looking for something else - be sure to check out our calendar on this page for more fun!

Daily Picks for June 25-29

MONDAY: Catch a movie at the Central Library.

• Dumbo showing at 2pm (also showing The Muppets this week on 6/27) 

• "Social Network"showing at 3pm for ages 13 to Adult

TUESDAY: It’s Storytime!

• Tales for Tots at Whole Foods at Merchants Walk at 10am 
• Town Center Prado Barnes & Noble at 11am – They’ll be reading “Birds” by Kevin Henkes 
• Cosmic Possum Storytime at 10:30 at the Ben Robertson Community Center in Kennesaw. Adams Park is right next door so pack some snacks and go play or keep cool browsing books at the Kennesaw Library nearby.  
• Choose your favorite Cobb County Public Library storytime, click here to view schedule 

WEDNESDAY: Bring your kids to Chick-fil-A at Roswell Corners and have fun playing BINGO for prizes at 10:15. Afterwards, play on their indoor play center or head over to Roswell Area Park

THURSDAY: It's about the tweens & teens today!

• Summer Fun for Tweens at Gritters Library from 3:30-4:30pm. Learn about "Jewelry Making" this week. Register ahead so they have enough supplies for you - call 770-528-2524
• Kids in grades 6th-12th will have fun Designing Wind Chimes at Mountain View Library 3pm-4:30pm – pre-register at the reference desk or calling 770-509-2725

FRIDAY: See an "Arabian Adventure" at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center presented by Tanglewood Marionettes. Showtimes on Friday at 10am & 1pm. (More performances Mon-Sat at 10:00am and Wednesday at 1pm;) Children 2-12 are $5 per person, lap babies free, adults are $6. For more details on show & purchase tickets online, visit www.roswellpuppets.com

Be sure to follow us on Facebook for more daily ideas and I'm always adding more fun to our website calendar so check back often!

Give Me 5......fun & free things to do this weekend!

Click on the highlighted link to find out more!

1. SATURDAY: Scouts Day at Marietta Museum of History - scouts and leaders in uniform get in free from 11am-3pm.


2. SATURDAY: Michael's Passport to Imagination Make-It & Take-It from 1pm-4pm kids ages 3+ will complete a craft inspired by today's destination...Poland!


3. SATURDAY: Family Field Day at the McCleskey-East Cobb YMCA from 1pm-5pm. FREE and open to the public.


4. SATURDAY: Marietta Farmer's Market from 9am-12pm at Marietta Square. This weekend the Marietta Square Artists Market is also happening alongside the farmer's market from 9am-2pm.


4. SATURDAY & SUNDAY: Battle of Kennesaw Mountain Anniversary Weekend - infantry & artillery demonstrations and Regimental Band concerts - find full schedule of demos online!


Bonus Beyond Cobb Freebie: Fourth Saturday Family Fun Day at Centennial Olympic Park from 12pm-4pm Saturday. This Saturday's theme is "Great Outdoors" - Activities include educational programming, specialty workshops, touring shows, street performers, family-friendly performances, children’s crafts, life-size chess games, appearances by on-air personalities, local sports mascots, contests, prizes and more! Pack your picnic, swimsuit, & towel so you can also splash in the Fountain of Rings!
Looking for more? Check out our calendar on this page for full schedule and be sure you follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

Father's Day FREEBIES

• Learn some new moves you can practice with Dad at home during East Cobb Library's Taekwando Family Seminar & Demonstration. On Saturday at 11:30, learn about Taekwondo's Olympic history and enjoy demonstrations of sparring, breaking and self-defense. Presentation by Moohan Martial Arts Academy. For ages 6+
• Kids can take dad to Whole Foods at Merchants Walk and make a healthy grill rub together on Saturday from 1pm-3pm in their Community Room. 
• Dads get FREE admission into Zoo Atlanta on Sunday with the purchase of a child’s ticket. 
• Take Dad for a spin around the rink. Dad’s get FREE admission to Sparkles in Kennesaw from 2pm-7pm on Sunday. Skate rental is $4 and they have a laser tag special too - $5 per game. 
• Take Dad out for lunch! He’ll get a free entrée from Willy’s on Saturday or Sunday with the purchase of a child’s (or regular) entrée. Click HERE to get the coupon. 
• Make him something special! Design a one-of-a-kind tie or “T” at your favorite Michael’s location during their Father's Day Make-It & Take-It on Saturday from 10am-noon. Must purchase t-shirt or tie. At Lakeshore Learning in East Cobb from 11am-3pm Saturday, kids can make Dad a Key Keeper during their FREE craft workshop.
• Bring Dad to Brunswick Zone XL in Kennesaw and let him have the high score on Sunday. Dad's get one FREE game with each child's game purchased. Shoe rental is $4.
• Grad dad a cup o' joe at Starbucks and listen to Me & My Dad at Barnes & Noble's FREE Father's Day Storytime at Town Center Prado on Saturday at 11am. They are also reading this same title by Alison Ritchie at the West Cobb Avenue location at 11am on Saturday.
• Sweet Treat for Dad from Cheeseburber Bobby's. What dad doesn't love a great burger...and a dipped cone for FREE. Buy a meal and get the cone for free
• Ok not FREE but how about dirt cheap deals?? Half Off Depot is hosting an awesome Father's Day Sale this weekend. Starting today (6/15) through Sunday (6/17) they're giving customers 20% OFF their entire order using promotion code: EVERYTHING20! Click here to browse deals!

"Dream Big" with Cobb Libraries

The 2012 Summer Reading Program "Dream Big - READ" begins on June 1 and ends on July 31, with an end-of-summer reading celebration scheduled for Saturday, August 4.  Here are 5 of Cobb Tots & Kids "Don't Miss" activities for June at the library! There are  over 700 programs and activities this summer to celebrate reading so it was a challenge to narrow it down!  I'll be back with a list for July. More information about these and even events can be found at www.cobbcat.org/calendar: 

1. Dream Big and get creative with The Art Station. The creative minds at the Art Station have come up with all sorts of fun. Open to children of all ages with caregiver. Powder Springs Library at 11am on Tuesday, June 4th

2. Learn about Frogs & Toads during a fun program about the frogs in our own backyard with Rachel Small from the Cobb Watershed Stewardship Program. Listen to a the zany story "Tuesday" by David Wiesner and Ms. Small will demonstrate the differnent sounds that frogs and toads make. Registration is required. For grades 3-6. Mountain View Library Tuesday, June 5th at 3pm

3. Summer Fun for Tweens is a weekly program at Gritters starting June 7th from 3:30-4:30. Each week the topic changes...from Calligrapghy to Soap Carving kids get to try something new while having fun. Regsitration is required so call 770-528-2524.

4.  Kids Writing Workshop at Kennesaw Library on June 12th from 1:30-3:30 with Best-selling author and Kennesaw resident Margaret Johnson-Hodge. Young writers will be presented with tools to tap into their creativity and tips tailored especially for students ages 9-12. The workshop will be hands-on, and will include handouts and on-site exercises. Participants also will learn methods for tackling the hardest part of writing - the first page!

5. Watch Joe the Magician on June 12 at 11am at the Powder Springs Library. Open to children all ages with caregiver.

Children from birth to 5th grade can participate in the Summer Reading Program at the library. Pick a folder to log the books they have read. Return the reading log anytime after July 4th to receive receive a certificate and to be eligible to win prizes. Stevi B’s has also sponsored a pizza giveaway for participants, and the first 5000 children to return their folders any time after July 4 can receive a coupon for a free kid’s buffet at any local Stevi B’s location!

Adults and Teens in grades 6-12 are also encouraged to participate in the "Dream Big" Summer Reading Program too by submitting book reviews. Forms can be picked up at the branches, downloaded from the website, or submitted online. Each person who enters a book review will be eligible to win a Sony eReader, courtesy of OverDrive, a provider of downloadable books and audiobooks.

Every person, regardless of age, who completes the library’s reading program will be entered into a drawing to win an iPad 2, courtesy of Cobb EMC. All winners will be announced at the End of Summer Reading Party, which will be held on Saturday, August 4 from 5-7 p.m. at the Central Library. Any winners not in attendance can pick up their prize at the Cobb County Public Library System branch of their choice.

Cheap Seats for Kid Flicks

School is almost out! When a rainy day spoils your pool playdate or it's just too darn hot, enjoy a movie. Here is a list of free or cheap seats this summer. Click on the highlighted links to get the movie schedule.

Children's Summer Series at Studio Movie Grill on Holcomb Bridge Rd offering $1 tickets for kids $2 for adults Monday-Friday at 11am beginning May 8th through week of August 6th.

Town Center Stadium on Town Center Drive in Kennesaw is participating in Regal Theater's Summer Movie Express. Showing G or PG rated movies for only a $1 on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 10:00 starting June 5th. A portion of proceeds from the Summer Movie Express will be donated to the Will Rogers Institute.

Park 12 Stadium Cinemas & Merchant's Walk Stadium Cinemas are hosting Georgia Theater Company's Summer Kid Show Series on Tuesday's & Thursdays at 10am staring June 5th. Door open at 9:15. Tickets are $1, $1.50 Kid-Size Popcorn, $1.50 Kid-Sized Drinks.

The Cobb County Libraries are showing FREE movies throughout the summer at various branches. Click on highlighted link to see schedule. If it its not posted, call the day of to get movie title.

• Central Library has "Movie Matinee" on Mondays & Wednesdays at 2pm beginning on June 4th through July 27th. Showing G or PG movies. No movie on July 2nd or 4th!
• Central Library also showing PG-13 movies for teens to adults on Mondays at 3pm.
• Hattie G Wilson Library will be showing movies on Wednesdays for school age children at 4pm. Starts June 6th until last Wednesday of July. No movie on July 4th!
• "Beat the Heat - Movies for Teens and Adults" at Mountain View Library on Saturdays in June & July at 2pm. For ages 13+ only! You may bring light refreshments.
• Stratton Library is showing G rated movies at 2:00pm on Thursdays in June and July. Feel free to bring a blanket and pillow and get comfortable.
• Page to Screen Series at Central Library every Monday afternoon in July at 3pm for a blockbuster movie based on a book. For ages Teen to adult only!
• July 16th bring the family out for "Family Night" at the Central Library at 7pm for a Mercer Mayer Short Film Festival - enjoy 3 short films based on the frog stories written by Mercer Mayer.
• "End of Summer Film Festival" starts July 30th through August 3rd at West Cobb Regional Library at 11:30am. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Open to all ages.

Follow us to find the fun! 

"Free Haircuts for Life" Contest

Win “Free Haircuts for Life” contest by Kids Kuts Salon!! Kids Kuts Salon is a fun full service family salon located at 2323 Shallowford Road in Marietta. From babies to Seniors, Kids Kuts offers affordable pricing for everyone in your family! Here’s how to enter:

1. Stop by the Salon and get a FREE entry!! No purchase necessary

2. Visit their website gallery and leave a comment

3. Get your haircut and get 5 more entries – be sure to tell them Cobb Tots & Kids sent you!!

"Like" Kids Kuts on Facebook to get updates on how to get extra entries throughout the summer and you might just might be set for life! Winner will be randomly selected at the end of August. 

I Was A Really Good Mom

Today’s Mother’s Day Post was inspired by iMOM’s Expresso Minute “9 Ways to Be a Better Mom”

On the heels of becoming a mom to a 17 month old and a newborn within 2 months of each other (yes, I am one of the ones that decides to adopts and then gets pregnant – long story), I was freed from bedtime duty and I decided to spend my time at Barnes & Noble with a Starbucks to leisurely wander the aisles in the peacefulness only found among books. I ended up in the parenting section…of course. A title caught my eye - ”I Was a Really Good Mom Before I Had Kids". It jumped out at me I think because it was exactly how I felt. I forever wanted to be a mom, I loved kids, & kids loved me but there is nothing that shakes your confidence more than being a mom. With only 2 months of mommyhood under my belt, I was floored at how much I worried, felt guilty & questioned my abilities. Before kids, I used to look at the covers of magazines with the adorable cupcakes and crafts on the cover and think I couldn’t wait to one day make those with my children…now I look at them and think “yeah, right!” - which then makes me feel guilty! I do more by 9am than most people do all day but why do I feel like I get nothing done? I feel incompetent. I once was talking to an acquantaince and she shared that at least once a week, she felt like a bad mom…I said “Really!?! Only once a week!?! I feel like a bad mom just about every day - You are doing pretty good then!” We laughed…or maybe we cried, I am too tired to remember. It’s so hard NOT to be so hard on ourselves…we do have the most important job there is and that’s a lot of pressure. One way I started feeling better about the pressure was joining a mom’s club. FINALLY, a place where I could complain without judgement, ask for advice, share my advice and laugh or cry at the craziness of the day. I also finally knew I wasn’t alone in my “sometimes-I-want-to-run-screaming-from-my-house” feelings and it was OK to feel that way. In my heart-of-hearts I know I am a “good mom” despite the fact that I don’t make magazine cover-worthy cupcakes (true confession – I don’t like baking with my kids –ah! THE GUILT!), I don’t make the fun bento box lunches (although they are packed with just as much care) and at bedtime I loose my patience (but I am always up for one more monkey hug). I love my kids. You love yours. And that is enough to make us good moms. Happy Mother’s Day!

What Kind of Mother are You?

Do you plan your own Mother's Day? It's really OK to speak up and tell your family what you want to do - It's your day after all! To help you decide what you might like to do this weekend, May 12 & 13, we are asking...What kind of mother are you?

Artsy:

• Enjoy spring at historic Roswell's Town Square and browse Colors Festival of Arts in Roswell on Saturday & Sunday from 10am-6pm each day. You might just find the perfect Mother's Day gift for yourself. 
• Second Sunday Funday at the High Museum is celebrating Moms from 1-4 Sunday. Design a street-art tote bag inspired by the KAWS: DOWN TIME exhibition and create a golf-tee flower bouquet! Early bird moms also have a chance to win a special treat from Spa Sydell. The first 200 mothers that visit the Museum will get a $20 Spa Sydell Spa Card.
• Bring your kids to East Cobb Lakeshore Learning for their FREE craft workshop on Saturday from 11am-3pm to make a meaningful Handprint Keepsake or let your kids design a special t-shirt or apron for you at your favorite Michael's location during their Make-it & Take-It Workshop Saturday 10am-12pm. (You must purchase t-shirt or apron, Michael's will supply the rest!). Stick around Michael's and from 12pm-2pm kids can make a special Mother's Day button for you to wear on Sunday - this Make-It & Take-It is FREE.

Nature Loving: 

• Tour 8 private gardens Saturday & Sunday during "Gardens for Connoisseurs" through the Atlanta Botanical Gardens, 
• Take a day trip to go hiking at Red Top Mountain or Kennesaw Mountain. The Chattahoochee Nature Center has guided trail hikes on Saturday & Sunday at 1pm & then enjoy Creature Feature at 2pm either day!
• Picnic at East Cobb Park during Sunday Funday from 4-7pm. Enjoy live music, the playground & just relaxing on your picnic blanket! 

Animal Lover:

• The Atlanta Zoo is going "apes" for moms! FREE admission for mom's with the purchase of a child's ticket! 
• Have your family skip the breakfast in bed routine and take you to the Mother's Day Brunch at the Georgia Aquarium by The Wolfgang Puck catering Team! Purchase tickets online: Georgia Aquarium

Foodie:

• Take a tasty "Edible Lesson" on Sunday from 10 am – 5pm at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens and enjoy Garden Chef Demos from noon-2pm.
• Memories with Mom at American Girl Store. Share an extra-special day with your daughter! You’ll enjoy a delicious meal and one-on-one time together. Includes an American Girl book, a commemorative photo and frame, and keepsakes to take home as a reminder of the memories made during your day together. For girls ages 6 and up. Tickets: $35 per person call for reservations: 877-247-5223 
• Mother’s Day Doll Tea Party on May 12th at 3pm & 4pm at Pottery Barn Kids at Northpoint Mall or Lenox Mall. Mothers and grandmothers are invited to a special tea-time.  Put on your finest and bring a favorite doll or teddy bear in for an afternoon of refreshments, stories and more. Go online to RSVP
• Cooking with Mom Workshop at Young Chefs Academy in Marietta at 3pm, $40 for mom & child, call 770-427-2665 to reserve spots. 
• Browse fresh from the farm produce at Marietta Farmers Market on Saturday from 9am-12pm and Sunday from 12-3pm. After you pick your produce from local growers enjoy lunch or a snack on the Marietta Square and then the choo-choo playground.

Charitable:

• "Mothers Helping Others", Mother's Day Open Houses in Roswell, tours of Barrington Hall, Bulloch Hall, and Smith Plantation from 1-3 Sunday, FREE admission with food donations at each house for the North Fulton Food Bank. Begins at Barrington Hall: 535 Barington Drive, Roswell
• Find bargains on just about anything and everything at Good Mews Spring Flea Market on Saturday & Sunday in the East Lake Shopping Center (near Aldi’s) at 2145 Roswell Road, Suite 40, Marietta. All proceeds benefit Good Mews Animal Foundation, a local non-profit organization which operates a volunteer-based no-kill shelter for homeless, abused, and abandoned cats. 

Musical:

• Enjoy an afternoon of beautiful music with your family…maybe these young musicians will inspire your young ones! Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra’s Spring Concert at 3pm Sunday at Atlanta Symphony Hall. Tickets are $10.
• Encore Encore Ballet Troupe will present "Lion and the Mouse” at Mountain View Library on Saturday at 3pm. This program is for all ages and is FREE! 

Bookish:

• “Where is My Mommy” Storytime at Barnes and Noble Town Center Prado. Meet everyone's favorite Big Red Dog, Clifford at the Barnes & Noble location at The Avenues at West Cobb location. Both story times are FREE and at 11am on Saturday.

Handy:

• Build a "Picture Frame Planter" at area Lowe’s  Build & Grow Workshop on Saturday at 10 am. It's FREE but you have to register online so you are guaranteed a project kit.

A New Mommy

• Atlanta Baby & Child Expo is THE premier party for expectant moms and new parents in Atlanta offering great giveaways of baby gear, relaxing mommy pampering, maternity fashion show, baby gear runway, and Cravings Corner! Saturday at the Fox Theater from 11am-3pm. Tickets are $20-$40 - get them online or at the door!