Birmingham Parent Magazine December 2015

THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA

FREE

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

Christmas A GOOD IDEA? IS A PET FOR

YELLOW DAY DEBUTS IN BIRMINGHAM A COUNTRY CHRISTMAS AT THE GAYLORD OPRYLAND HOTEL

NATIONAL PARENTING PUBLICATIONS AWARDS GIFT GUIDE 2016

Message from Sheriff Mike Hale

BE IN CHARGE. Control. Alt. Delete Cyberbullying.

Cyberbully Hotline 1-800-420-1479

editor’s note

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year from the staff of Birmingham Parent:

3590-B Hwy. 31 S. #289 Pelham, AL 35124 205-987-7700 205-987-7600 FAX www.birminghamparent.com

editorial Publishers David & Carol Evans Editor Carol Muse Evans Associate Editor Lori Chandler Pruitt Office Assistant Bethany Adams Hunley Calendar Lori Chandler Pruitt Contributors Dr. Vivian Friedman, Gerry P. Smith, Charles Ghigna, Julie Kertes

Carol Muse Evans Publisher/Editor

David Evans Publisher

Lori Pruitt Associate Editor

sales Account Executives Kayla Fricks, Brittani Ellison Webmaster Digital Doo-Wop

art & production Art Director Hilary Moreno Distribution T&P Deliveries E-blasts Simple Southern Lace Designs Legal Counsel Balch & Bingham LLP

Kayla Fricks Account Executive

Brittani Ellison Account Executive

Hilary Moreno Art Director

Carol Muse Evans, Publisher/Editor carol@birminghamparent.com

Don't miss THE GUIDE in January 2016, your one-stop resource for everything in central Alabama!

4 | birminghamparent | december 2015

BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A PUBLICATION OF EVANS PUBLISHING, LLC. Publishers: Carol Muse Evans, David K. Evans Sr. Birmingham Parent (EIN20-0694149) is published monthly

by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@birminghamparent.com. Birmingham Parent is © 2015 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2011 by Evans Publishing LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Editorial submissions are welcome. For back issues, please send a self-addressed 10” x 13” envelope with $4 for postage and handling.

DEC. 12-13, 2015

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THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA

Pets for Christmas?

A Good Idea?

orforms Big Wall Playset

Colorforms, $29.99, w.Colorforms.com, Ages 3 and up

We’ve all seen the images of a little boy or girl running down the stairs Christmas morning to find a puppy or kitten inside a beautiful box with a big bow, and all the love and happiness that follows. What we don’t see is the family and pet six weeks or more later, and how it’s working out.

19

DECEMBER 2015

22 28

Don’t Dump Dumpty Game BeginAgain, $30, www.beginagaintoys.com, Ages 2 and up

Christmas 19 A GOOD IDEA? IS A PET FOR

YELLOW DAY DEBUTS IN BIRMINGHAM A COUNTRY CHRISTMAS AT THE GAYLORD OPRYLAND HOTEL

NATIONAL PARENTING PUBLICATIONS AWARDS GIFT GUIDE 2016

10

departments Note 04 Editor’s Merry Christmas!

07

Parenting with Dr. Friedman

8 School News 0 Page in a Book: 26 AFeeling Right at Home in a Book

Hello Kitty Karaoke Kar by Dynacraft Dynacraft, $199.99, www.dynacraftbike.com, Ages 3 and up

16

33

December & January Calendar Highlights

34

December & January Calendar of Events

Party: 38 Poetry Christmas Poems

Jr. Jump ‘n Slide Bouncer Little Tikes, $199.99, www.littletikes.com, Ages 2-8

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th Fart nacraft

ke.com,

Ninja Control Leonardo The Grown-up Holiday

30 Great Gifts for Giving:

Gift Guide A Collection of NAPPA Winners PortaPlay Playmates Toys, $59.99, Oribel, $149, www.playmatestoys.com, www.loveoribel.com/us, Ages and ON THE COVER: The last of the 4 2015 Coverup Search Winners Amariah, age 4, wonders if a pet for Christmas will be under her tree. Here, publisher Carol Muse Evans’ dog, Daisy, entertains Amariah. Photo

by Christy Pierce Photography, Ages 18 months and up www.christypiercephotography.com. Pet grooming by Pet Smart Alabaster.

6 | birminghamparent | december 2015

DAY MOVIE 22 YELLOW Debuts in Birmingham TRAVEL: 28 FAMILY Gaylord Opryland’s A Country Christmas

parenting

Parenting with Dr. Friedman

Q:

I am a 16-year-old high school student. I live with my mom and stepdad. I have a nice house and a nice bedroom. I get all the clothes that I want in any style that I want, even Goth or punk. Yet I am not happy. I have tried drugs. I have gotten drunk, yet my mom has not seemed to notice. I left a pack of cigarettes on my desk just to see if my mother would notice. She came into my room and she must have seen them but she said nothing. I can’t remember the last time we ate dinner together. Don’t get me wrong. I love my mom. She is a good mom but she works a lot and travels often for her job. Her work is very important and I admire her. I just wish that my mom didn’t think that leaving me with my stepdad instead of with her is just as good. It’s not. All he ever does is try to discipline me by bossing me around. Do you think that my mom really didn’t see the cigarettes or was she just trying to avoid a fight?

It sounds like you are screaming out for attention from your mom. You have tried wearing alternative clothes but mom didn’t notice. You upped the volume with cigarettes and she didn’t see them.

You have tried drugs and drinking. I would not be surprised to hear that you were staying out late with boys as well, yet your mom either doesn’t notice, doesn’t want to take the time to deal with it, or doesn’t dare to comment.

In your quest for mom’s attention, you might get better results if you told your mom directly what you need from her rather than resorting to behaviors that may cause harm to you. Your mom has not heard or has not responded to your indirect communication. Make a clear statement about what your needs are and make a request for specific time to spend together.

A comment like, “Mom, I really hate it when

you are gone so much. Can we set up two nights per week of eating dinner together?” If you feel that your mom won’t listen when you talk to her, you might ask to go to family counseling. You might need an interpreter to help your mom hear what you are saying.

You might also tell her about your drug, cigarette and alcohol use. Some parents will react with anger. Others might use this to justify even more time away, but some will wake up to see the distress their child is in.

There is an important lesson for parents in this child’s letter. Many adolescents labeled as being bad are really children who just crying out for attention and affection from their parents. Attention does not mean that you should spend a few minutes per day with your child and use those moments to threaten them about their behavior or dress. It does mean

that the negative behaviors would lessen by meeting the emotional needs of an adolescent who tries to define peers as the support group but who can’t make it without you.

Working parents need to be especially sensitive to the emotional needs of their children. Choose your parent substitutes wisely. One stepparent might meet the child’s needs. Another might not.

It depends upon the relationship between the parent-substitute and the teen. Cold or absent parents produce troubled and risk-taking teens.

Both parents can certainly have a career but they cannot leave a child at home like a pet. Raising a child takes lots and lots of time. All of us thrive on attention from those who matter to us. If you are away during the day, make the evenings special. If you travel for work, be sure to celebrate your return with special time together.

Vivian K. Friedman Ph. D. is a child and family psychologist at UAB, Department of Psychiatry. Send questions for response in this column to Viviankf@gmail.com. No personal replies are sent.

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school news

Bundles of Hope, the local diaper bank non-profit for those in need, needs YOU to donate storage/warehouse space and/or host diaper drives.

Businesses, local organizations & individuals all welcome!

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF TCE

School Superintendents of Alabama (SSA) Showcases Maker Studio Recently, Celeste Burton’s kindergarten class at Trace Crossings Elementary School in Hoover learned about the practicality of farm animals as everyday pets. Burton employed the Maker Studio’s 3-in-1 projector to project a proportionately-scaled cow image on the floor, around which students have gathered. They’re using building blocks as measurement tools to see the size of a cow relative to other animals.

Delivering curriculum in this manner to students proves great fun for Burton, who has more than two decades’ worth of education experience.

The new Maker Studio at the school provides her new approaches to instruction, taking students out of the classroom and into a resource-filled wonderland.

Trace Crossings’s new Maker Studio complements an existing Makerspace that the school created two years ago out of an existing science lab.

Together, both spaces provide alternative areas for STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) instruction.

The Maker Studio has already grabbed the attention of educators across Alabama, having been recently showcased as one of twelve “success stories” in the state at the 2015 fall conference of the School Superintendents of Alabama (SSA).

Dana Joyner serves as TCES’ STEAM facili8 | birminghamparent | december 2015

tator. In this role, Joyner helps teachers discover ways to best use spaces like the new Maker Studio - an idea born out of the Makers Movement which surfaced nationally around five years ago.

Principal Carol Barber and Assistant Principal Amanda Stone have collaborated with TCES educators for months, bringing the Maker Studio to life as an interdisciplinary, curriculum-focused lab.

A host of people and groups came together to produce the Maker Studio, including local businesses, the TCES PTO board/school administration, the district technology staff and the Hoover Board of Education. Maker Studio was first introduced to the public via EdCampSTEAM, teacher professional development prior to the 15-16 school year. It was then showcased once again on Parent Night and after that, through a successful Friday night student event called “SteamAPalooza.”

school news

CELEBRATING YEARS OVER

34 FAMILY-OWNED & OPERATED

LIKE US ON

Photo from left: Zach Hamby, Hunner Bergin, Kimsey Stewart, Dimari Jordan, Summer Vo, Zander Winston, Sidney Buckingham, Blayde Dill, Faith Dill, Joseph Green, Jordan Harper, Dylan Higgs, Soha Rasool, Aria Huff. Not pictured: Taimur Ghani, Christopher Fox. Photo courtesy ASFA

ASFA Students Build an Award-Winning Robot

A remote-controlled robot built by 16 Alabama School of Fine Arts students in just six weeks won first place in two categories at UAB’s BEST Robotics (Boosting Engineering, Science and Technology) competition.

There were teams competing from 33 local schools. The ASFA team won Best Project Engineering Notebook and Best T-shirt Design.

“This competition teaches them all aspects of engineering from team building to problem solving to accomplishing a goal and then to marketing the final design,” says Hungsin Chin, supervisory chair of Russell Math Science Center.

The theme of the competition was “Pay Dirt” and the robots had to maneuver through a field and mineshaft.

Summer Vo, a junior on the team said, “The hardest part of the competition was repairing and changing components of the robot, because certain parts stopped functioning pretty often.

The building team would have to figure out what the problem was and then fix it and test the robot again.”

The students dedicated their Friday and Saturday afternoons for six weeks to design and implement their entry. The team included Hunner Burgin, Sidney Buckingham, Blayde Dill, Faith Dill, Christopher Fox, Taimur Ghani, Joseph Green, Zach Hamby, Jordan Harper, Dylan Higgs, Aria Huff, Dimari Jordan, Soha Rasool, Kimsey Stewart, Summer Vo and Zander Winston.

Adult mentors included Jason Dill, Frank Hamby, Daniel Kearns, Dennis Kearns, Katrina Turnbach and Tho Vo. Additional support was given by Stormie Dill and Mai Vo. Chin served as advisor.

The team is already brainstorming and planning for next year’s competition, Turnbach says, “I’m most proud of their dedication and commitment to the team. Most team members never missed a meeting and many worked well into the night the day before the competition. As soon as the competition was over, the team excitedly began coming up with ideas to improve next year in an effort to win the overall BEST award.”

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The Grown-up Holiday Gift Guide For Moms, Dads, Grandparents, Neighbors and Other Adults in Your Child’s Life Here are some of our favorites this holiday season at Birmingham Parent, all for $50 or less each. For “him or “her,” to the great food items for anyone, there’s a little something for anyone on your list here that is affordable and fun.

for her

MILA WOMEN’S GLOVES These are stretch winter gloves for active lifestyles. Mila touchscreen gloves for ladies feature invisible all-over micro conductive spandex that promotes more natural control and access of mobile touch screens found on smartphones, automobile control panels, tablets and MP3 devices.

Price: $40 Where to buy: www.urpowered.com/retailers for a list that includes Macy’s, Nordstrom’s, Dillard’s and Von Maur.

MAXI PIN The new Maxi Pin is great to easily lift up clothing like the very-popular maxi dress or skirt for a chic and polished look, especially for petite women, or to pin a scarf or wrap beautifully. Comes in gold or silver tone. Perfect for fashionable pinning of maxi dresses, skirts, ponchos, scarves and more.

Price: $19.99 Where to buy: www.fabodina.com

MAGNIFYING MAKEUP MIRROR This mirror is a great addition to any vanity. It features a close-up view of your skin, magnified 7x, and an LED ring around the mirror that provides natural lighting without casting shadows on your face, A convenient organizer base with 9 multi-sized compartments, and a portable, battery-operated design, so there aren’t any annoying and unsightly cords, and you’ll never have to worry about finding an available outlet.

Price: $39.95 Where to buy: Amazon.com, Brookstone.com, and toilettreeproducts.com.

THE STYLE RX PILL BOX CASE Need a pill box but don’t want it to look like a pill box? Need a solution that’s designed to be portable? This pillbox marries vibrant patterns with a luxe, quality pill case. Great for any age.

Price: $34 Where to Buy: www.inspiredbydawn.com

16 | birminghamparent | december 2015

EYN CELL PHONE CASE The EYN (everything you need) cases can fit on most smartphones including the iPhone 4/4S, iPhone 5/5S, iPhone 6 and 6 plus as well as the Samsung Galaxy S4 Android phone. The cases offer an all-in-one storage piece for cash, credit cards, keys, and of course, protection for your smart phone. Also included is a mirror inside, which doubles as a stand to rest your case while watching videos or playing applications with ease.

Available in many colors.

Price: $29.99 Where to buy: www.eynproducts.com/ collections/

AMANDA EARMUFF IN STONEWALL This signature knit earmuff features built-in U|R Powered audio speakers with removable cords.

Detailed with 2 tone exterior muffs. Warm heathered micro fur inner muff.

Price: $36 Where to buy: www.urpowered. com/retailers for a list that includes Macy’s, Nordstrom’s, Dillard’s and Von Maur.

VIVITAR SELFIE STICK Some people just can’t stop taking selfies, and now there is an essential gift to make those selfies even better. The Vivitar 40” Smartphone Selfie Monopod with Bluetooth Enabled Remote is taking selfies to the professional level. It also includes a smartphone cradle and tripod mount and a 180-degree ball head Price: $14.99 Where to buy: www.Amazon.com

DR. SQUATCH’S MEN’S SOAPS These soaps are made with natural ingredients the old fashioned way and infused with fresh, outdoorsy scents that will have you feel like you are showering in a waterfall.

Price: $7 Where to buy: www.drsquatch.com

for him

BRUNO MEN’S GLOVE IN STONEWALL These nylon heated touchscreen gloves, feature all-over micro conductive, capacitive glove technology. U|R Powered spandex palm that allows the wearer to perform all touch gestures on any device. Exclusive warm heat pocket and U|R Urban Fuel Heat Revolution Packs keep your hands warm for up to eight hours. These innovative winter gloves offer extra warmth in cold-weather temperatures.

Price: $50 Where to buy: www.urpowered.com/retailers for a list that includes Macy’s, Nordstrom’s, Dillard’s and Von Maur.

FOGLESS SHOWER MIRROR Fogless mirrors offer the best solution to make shaving routines quicker, easier and more effective. The warm water and steam from the shower open pores and make hair softer, allowing a razor to trim hairs without irritating the skin.

Price: $29.95 Where to buy: ToiletTreeProducts.com, Amazon.com, Bed Bath & Beyond, CVS Pharmacies, Brookstone, The Sharper Image, Hammacher Schlemmer and Frontgate Catalog.

birminghamparent.com | 17

The Grown-up Holiday Gift Guide for all COMMUNITY COFFEE SPECIAL BLENDS SAMPLER Give the gift of refined Southern taste with this assortment of delicious Community® specialty coffees that are sure to please even the most discerning coffee drinkers. Contains one 12 oz. ground bag of each: Evangeline Blend™, Louisiana Blend®, Founder’s Blend and Espresso Blend. Say thank you to the men and women in the U.S. military by adding to your coffee order through the Military Match program.

Price: $34.99 Where to buy: www.CommunityCoffee.com and in your local Piggly Wiggly, Publix, Target, Walmart and Winn Dixie.

18 | birminghamparent | december 2015

MILL FUDGE FACTORY & ICE CREAM CAFÉ FUDGE The Bristol, NH-based small business, founded by the Munro family in 2006, uses the family’s secret Scottish recipe and 100 percent natural ingredients.

It’s available in an assortment of classic and inventive flavors, including Belgian Chocolate, Chocolate Walnut, Natural Peanut Butter, Scottish Whiskey, Pure New Hampshire Maple, Bailey’s Irish Cream, Pumpkin Pie and much more. The factory also offers an assortment of decadent truffles and toffee. All confections are available in gift baskets and elegant sampler boxes.

Price: $14-$54 Where to buy: http://themillfudgefactory.com

PANETTONE DI MILANO Ready-to-eat Bauli Panettone is all-natural and made with simple ingredients: butter, sugar and eggs, along with sweet raisins and glazed orange peels.

It’s baked in its own cylindrical mold for a distinct and festive look. No festive occasion is complete without it!

Price: $9.99 Where to buy: Target, CVS, Walgreens, Safeway, Costco, and more

Pets for Christmas?

A Good Idea?

By Carol Muse Evans

We’ve all seen the images of a little boy or girl running down the stairs Christmas morning to find a puppy or kitten inside a beautiful box with a big bow, and all the love and happiness that follows. What we don’t see is the family and pet six weeks or more later, and how it’s working out.

Is the child still playing with the animal, feeding it, caring for it? Has it been a good experience for the family, or a bust? Is a pet really a good idea at Christmas, or as any surprise gift?

“Ask yourself if you have the time and space commitment first,” says Dr. Chase Whitworth, veterinarian at Patton Chapel Animal Clinic. “You will need to spend time training a dog so it becomes the dog you want it to be.”

James “Jimmy” Johnson, owner of Dog Days of Birmingham, agrees. “Parents should consider what they will do when the ‘new’ wears off of having a pet…..Are you prepared to take care of and love this companion after the holidays are over?”

Sonya King, executive director of Two

by Two Rescue in Shelby County, says there’s an increase in homeless animals after almost every holiday, especially Christmas. “The reasons vary, but the biggest reason is because people make an emotional decision,” King explains. “They cater to a child’s cry for a puppy for Christmas and the dream of a Norman Rockwell photograph of a child opening a big box with a puppy inside takes over all logic.”

“We actually prohibit adoption animals as gifts in order to prevent returns,” says Tara Love, adoption manager at the Greater Birmingham Humane Society. “As an alternative, we provide gift certificates and ask that the recipient meet with the animal prior to adopting.”

What to Consider Before Buying/ Adopting a Pet for a Gift “It’s always best to consider all aspects of adopting new animal (for holidays) such as cost of food, regular vet care and even training your new pet,” says Cassidy Sklar, foster/ rescue/transport coordinator of the Shelby Humane Society. “One of the most important things to also consider is time to acclimate the new pet to their new routine. Consideration of all of these things will increase the chances of the new home staying a forever home.” birminghamparent.com | 19

“All puppies need a series of shots just like babies,” King says. “All dogs need monthly heartworm prevention….and they need to be spayed and neutered.” And of course, there is daily feeding, care, walking, training and general attention a dog, cat or other pet demands.

“One, the animal is not disposable,” King says. “It is a creature that depends on humanity to survive and thrive. Do not surprise a person with an animal as a gift.

Often people do this and the recipient does not want the gift.”

“Parents should be prepared to care of the pet if the child does not fulfill their duties,” adds Dr. Jeff Falone, veterinarian, at Valleydale Animal Clinic.

“Adopting or rescuing an older pet can be better for young children, as older dogs and cats are calmer and less anxious around children,” according to Dr. Jay Price, veterinarian at Oak View Animal Hospital. “Take your children to the shelter and watch them interact with the dogs and cats, and use this time to remind them of the responsibility of owning a pet.”

Petfinder.com, an online source that list many adoptable pets that are part of rescue groups and humane societies, offers these tips online:

7 How old are your children? Different pets are appropriate for different ages. Consider discussing your pet ideas/choices with a pet care provider.

7 Do your kids really want a pet?

7 Have you thought about the cost? Look

past the fee to adopt – veterinary care, heartworm and flea maintenance, boarding and pet sitting when you travel, food, etc.

7 Are you committed? Will the pet live

inside or outside? Do you have the proper environment in which for her to live?

7 Are you educated about what caring for an animal entails? Don’t forget – an animal is an animal. Dogs chew, cats scratch. There are going to be bumps in the road.

7 Don’t get a pet to teach your child respon-

sibility, because if your child fails, the animal and/or the child could be harmed.

(Check out petfinder.com for suggestions of types of animals and breeds based on your child’s age, and other great tips.)

You are Ready.

Where do You Find the Pet? “Over 25 percent of animals who enter shelters are purebred,” Sklar says. “It is

worth checking your local shelter for the kind of breed you are looking for, and I even suggest checking more than a few times, as open intake shelters may see more than 100 animals every week.

“If you still can’t find that special breed you’re looking for, the next best option would be to contact breed specific rescues,” Sklar adds. “While their fees can be a little higher, these rescues are also looking to save as many lives as possible while promoting spay/neuter and responsible pet ownership.”

“Though a personal preference, dogs that are known to be kid-friendly are beagles, bassets, American pit bull terriers, bichon frise, coonhounds, Brittanies, Corgis, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, collies, French bulldogs, golden retrievers, Great Danes, Havanese, labrador retrievers, pugs, poodles, Scotties and others, Johnson points out.

Sites such as petfinder.com will also help you find the type of pet, if you are willing to adopt a rescue that you are looking for based on breed, age and even the area in which you live. All adoptions and rescues come with fees.

“The basic principle of supply and demand applies to questions of whether one should consider a rescue dog or a breeder,” King adds. “The sad reality is that there are too many dogs for the number of people who wish to own one.”

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHELBY COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY

“No matter the occasion for adopting a pet, whether it’s the holidays or birthday, or any day, it is so important to understand it is a big decision,” Sklar says. “If you rescue you are saving a life, and once that decision is made, that life is now your responsibility. Don’t rush the adoption process…it’s an important decision, and it shouldn’t be taken lightly.”

A pet can be a wonderful addition to any family, and a terrific way for a child to learn about other living creatures, love, care and empathy. If you do things right, a pet can be a wonderful childhood companion and a long time, special member of your family. It can be the beginning of a lifelong love affair with God’s creatures.

“Adopting or rescuing an older pet can be better for young children, as older dogs and cats are calmer and less anxious around children.”

— Dr. Jay Price

Carol Muse Evans is publisher of Birmingham Parent. She’s had pets since she was two years old, and her children have grown up with cats, dogs, guinea pigs, fish and rabbits. Her dog, Daisy, on this month’s cover, was a humane society dog before coming to live with her family more than seven years ago.

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE

DOGS

WHERE EVERYONE IS A GENIUS The development of young minds is our greatest priority.

Small Class Sizes Live Online Monitoring Nutritious Meals Chess Club And MORE!

The Birmingham dog/daycare residence garnered a 2011 AIA Renovation Adaptive Workshop Architectural Award.

The daycare/boarding/grooming resides on the first floor with individual class rooms for the various size dogs that attend.

The outdoor play area is on the roof.

Dog Days owners reside on the 3rd floor loft so your dogs are never alone.

Dog Days of Birmingham won the “2013 Parent’s Choice Award for the Best Doggie Daycare/Boarding” in Birmingham

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YELLOW DAY MOVIE DEBUTS IN BIRMINGHAM

Yellow Day, a debut faith-based family film from Providence Film Partners in Mobile, will release in select theaters Christmas 2015 and premier in Birmingham on December 11.

The live action move chronicles a young man’s life-changing journey through the Yellow Day, a miraculous day where the world is revealed as seen through the eyes of God. On this day, the young man witnesses astonishing miracles, each one teaching a lesson in faith, hope and love. And when he experiences a miracle, the movie switches to beautiful animation, done by Magnetic Dreams studios in Nashville.

The stories of Yellow Day come from Camp Grace, an actual camp in Mobile, where much of the movie takes place.

“Co-producers Blake Hester and G.P. (Jeff) Galle Jr. (also the writer) started the project as a way to give back to the camp,” according to Heather Hall, PR and marketing director for Idyllic Entertainment Group. “The project grew into a film,” she explains.

22 | birminghamparent | december 2015

The late Krisanna Roberts, a real Camp Grace camper, inspired Yellow Day’s title. At 15 years old and after battling cancer all her life, she found out she had six months to live.

For these remaining months, the doctors asked her to name a color for days she felt well. She chose yellow. A “yellow day” is not a day where everything goes right, but a day when one chooses grace and hope no matter what happens, she said.

Roberts’ story, along with a story about special needs and domestic abuse are woven into the movie. The result is a film with lessons for children on subjects that are potentially delicate and even hard to discuss, Hall points out.

“This production is not about any singular person, but the incredible and dedicated community that come together to make Yellow Day possible,” Galle says. “For us,” says Hester, “Yellow Day is just the first step towards what we hope to be a new type of entertainment culture, one in which creative

minds can flourish without compromise, and people of all ages can enjoy quality entertainment which combines captivating stories with a message of faith.”

The film stars Drew Seeley (Another Cinderella Story, High School Musical), Lindsey Shaw (Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide, Pretty Little Liars), and Ashley Boettcher (Aliens in the Attic, Gortimer Gibbons’ Life on Normal Street).

Yellow Day was produced in Mobile with participation from hundreds of volunteers in the churches and charitable communities.

The film was funded by a business-faith community which wanted a quality production to give healing to our culture, Hall says.

For a look at the trailer: http://trailers.apple. comtrailers/independent/yellowday/ To learn more, visit: http://yellowdaymovie.com

PEDIATRICS 24/7, 365 IT MATTERS When a patient goes in for a surgical procedure at either of our two locations, that child receives worldclass care from board-certified pediatric professionals: l surgeons l anesthesiologists l nurse anesthetists l OR nurses l OR scrub technicians l respiratory therapists l recovery room nurses and l support staff.

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A Page in a Book

©

RECOMMENDING THE BEST BOOKS FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS

By Gerry P. Smith

Feeling Right at Home in a Book Home means different things to everyone. Home can be a house, a town, or a country. Home can be defined by the presence of family, the company of friends or the sense of community. It can be a place of refuge, a place to rest, and a place for reunion. But in the best of circumstances, home is the place where we are most comfortable; the place where it is easiest for us to be ourselves. The following titles explore different homes, leaving home and coming home – with each tale connected by the common thread of appreciation for the things that make our homes so uniquely special to each of us.

Home

By Carson Ellis (Candlewick Press) The whimsical folk art style of Carson Ellis creates the perfect common thread that ties together the magnificent sampler of living spaces featured in Home. The reader is introduced early to a country home in a pastoral setting and an apartment in the heart of the city. But the tour of homes quickly takes a surprising and delightful turn as homes from history appear alongside modern abodes. Palaces of mythical beings take turns with cultural dwellings in this unpredictable parade of homes. While the wild swings between real and imagined houses could become silly, Ellis treats the sense of home for each occupant with dignity and beauty. Throughout the book, the occupants’ lifestyles anchor each abode, their personal signatures transforming every house into a home for those living inside.

The Day the Crayons Came Home

By Drew Daywalt and Oliver Jeffers (Penguin / Philomel) In this hilarious follow-up to Daywalt and Jeffers’ colorful debut The Day the Crayons Quit, Duncan’s crayons are as disgruntled as ever. But this time they have been scattered, damaged, and lost and they (mostly) just want to come home to their crayon box. Through a series of postcards (addressed to Duncan’s room), each wayward crayon has a tale of woe and a plea for Duncan’s help to get them back home. Semi-melted, partially digested, over-sharpened, and under-appreciated crayons can only take so much adventure before they just want back in the box they call home. But with their new shapes and sticky additions, new and improved digs may be just the ticket for the crayons’ homecoming. Full of fun details cleverly tucked into the illustrations, this new “crayons” book promises to be a favorite repeat read!

Audrey’s Tree House

By Jenny Hughes and Jonathan Bentley (Scholastic Press) Audrey is certain that she has grown too big for the small house she shares with her dad. And after some scouting around the yard, she convinces him to build her a place of her own in a tall tree. Audrey insists that it needs a spiral staircase, a place to sip tea, and more features to make it her perfect new home. As her dad builds the bigger place to her specifications, it appears that Audrey will soon have the ideal place to live. But when the last nail is pounded and dad collects his tools to return to his small house, Audrey’s big space seems to come with big worries. When she completes her list of worries to her dad, he reminds her that even though she has grown bigger, she always has a snug bed in a warm house with soup for two just beneath the tree. Audrey’s Tree House is a loving testament to the idea that little houses can often be cozier with love filling them up.

26 | birminghamparent | december 2015

We provide a multi-sensory environment enabling students to learn at their maximum potential.

Spring Valley School knows that for young people with a language-based learning disability, like dyslexia, school can be frustrating and overwhelming. For our students, grades 2-12, school is about experiencing an individualized academic program every day, building skills to make learning beneficial and meaningful, playing sports, exploring visual arts, theater... and feeling confidence for the first time ever.

Spring Valley School admits students with average to superior intelligence who have been diagnosed with learning differences such as Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and AD/HD. We are accredited through SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools).

Come visit. We invite you to contact us to set up an interview and a tour of the school.

Reading Intervention with CALT Specialist 8:1 Sudent Ratio Openings Available

springvalleyschool.org 205-423-8660 605 Hagood Street Birmingham, AL 35213

birminghamparent.com | 27

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A Country Christmas is a Magical Holiday Getaway for Families

28 | birminghamparent | december 2015

During A Country Christmas at Nashville’s Gaylord Opryland Resort, families, extended families, couples and friends are invited into a holiday wonderland festooned with 2.3 million lights, towering Christmas trees, enormous wreaths and glistening ornaments adorning indoor gardens beneath multi-acre atriums. It’s a holiday wonderland, all enclosed in the comfortable dome of the Gaylord Opryland Resort.

“Whether new holiday shows or décor, we’re always finding ways to top ourselves, and this year is no exception,” said Gaylord Opryland General Manager Pete Weien.

Audiences will find their hearts growing a few sizes along with the Grinch’s when they experience the magic of Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical. Hailed by The New York Times as “100 times better than any bedside story,” this classic holiday musical will enchant adults and children alike with hit songs like “You’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas” from the original animated television special.

Celebrating 60 years in 2015, Opry members Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers are bringing their hits and holiday favorites to a brand new dinner show at the resort. After a feast prepared by the resort’s award-winning chefs, audiences will be dazzled by the incredible vocal harmonies of this Grammy-winning trio.

At ICE! featuring The Nutcracker, guests will marvel at two million pounds of colorful ice sculptures and two-story-tall ice slides carved by 40 artisans from Harbin, China. For more chilly fun, guests can brave the sixlane tubing hill covered in 1.5 million pounds of real snow or visit the 6,000 square foot outdoor ice rink.

Families can test their puzzle-solving prowess during The Elf on the Shelf® Scavenger Hunt, featuring 10 of Santa’s scout elves who have landed at the resort.

The array of holiday entertainment includes something for everyone – visits with Santa, a holiday kids’ train, gingerbread decorating, the Brightest Star Fountain Show, Treasures for the Holidays Craft Show, an outdoor nativity and more. Parade of Trees, a self-guided tour of Christmas trees, lets guests bid on trees decorated by favorite musical artists to benefit their favorite charities.

A Country Christmas has been hailed as one of the “Ten Great Places to Catch up with Santa” by USA Today; “The Most Christmassy Hotel in the Nation” by the Travel Channel’s “Extreme Christmas;” one of the top 10 places to spend Christmas in the world by Travel + Leisure; and a “Nashville treasure” by Southern Living.

For information, including A Country Christmas vacation packages and tickets, visit www.ChristmasAtGaylordOpryland.com or call 615-889-1000.

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moving &&expanding weweweareareare moving & expanding !] !]!] moving expanding

Ournew pediatric clinicoffer offers a sensory room equipped with The clinic a sensory room equipped a a The new clinic will will offerexperiences. a sensory roomAequipped withwith a with variety of sensory large gym climbing Theof new clinic will offer a sensory room equipped with a variety of sensory experiences.

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pediatric pediatrictherapy therapyservices services 240240 Commerce CommerceParkway Parkway Pelham, ALAL35124 Pelham, 35124 Phone: 205-621-6503 Phone: 205-621-6503 www.eastersealsbham.org www.eastersealsbham.org

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Processing Speech/Language Delays SensorySensory Processing Disorder Disorder Speech/Language Delays Academic Difficulties Cognitive Impairment Academic Difficulties Cognitive Impairment Feeding Disorders Autism Spectrum Disorder Feeding Disorders Autism Spectrum DisorderDelays Sensory Processing Disorder Speech/Language Orthopedic Down Syndrome Injuries &Injuries Needs & Needs DownCognitive SyndromeImpairment Orthopedic Academic Difficulties Handwriting/Fine Motor Seizure Disorders Handwriting/Fine Seizure Disorders FeedingMotor Disorders Autism Spectrum Disorder Challenges Cerebral Palsy Challenges Cerebral Palsy Orthopedic Injuries & Needs Down Syndrome The therapy program at Sealsanoffers an The therapy program at EasterEaster Seals offers Handwriting/Fine Motor Seizure Disorders interdisciplinary approach to treating interdisciplinary teamteam approach to treating the wholethe whole Challenges Cerebral Palsy of speech-language child.

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Calendar sponsored by

calendar highlights Don’t miss the many opportunities – too many to list on this page – to enjoy holiday fun with your family this month! Check out this month’s calendar for details on several family-friendly annual favorites, from special train rides with Santa, holiday lights, pajama parties, breakfast with Santa, concerts, parades and special movies and performances.

Plan ahead for a wonderful Christmas season!

12 & 19 Even though it’s December, there are still lots of chances to stay healthy as a family, and raise money for a good cause. On December 12, The Arc of Jefferson County hosts its Decked out Dash and Carnival; for more information, go to www.arcofjeff.org. And on December 19, the Dash Away 5K and Jingle Bell Junction at Camp Fletcher will benefit Campfire of Alabama. Information, www.campfire-al.org. Looking ahead, check out the Red Shoe Run in Homewood on January 23 to benefit the Ronald McDonald House; for more information, www.redshoerun-bham.org.

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Calendar sponsored by

1 TUESDAY

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Magic Christmas in Lights Bellingrath Gardens and Home, Mobile. 20th anniversary of this dazzling nighttime display.

Through January 2, 2016. Information, tickets, 251-973-2217, www.bellingrath.org.

Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, 1130 22nd St. S. Rain or shine.

Fresh produce and much more. Holiday market!

3 THURSDAY American Girl: Girls Just Like Me 3:30pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Celebrate the beauty of the season with American Girl fun! Craft with fragrant plant material such as evergreen and cinnamon, a short hike, holiday story and delicious treats while learning how your favorite American Girl characters celebrate the holidays. $15 members, $20 non-members. Schedule, information, 205414-3950, www.bbgardens.org.

Frozen Fantasy Fun! 4pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Kids 5 and older can “let it go” and come to the library for activities based on the popular movie! Come in costume if you like. Kids 6-younger must be with an adult. Register, 205-664-6822.

Scrooge! The Musical 7:30pm, The Library Theatre, Hoover. Enjoy this charming stage musical! Tickets $25.

205-444-7888, www.TheLibraryTheatre.com.

4 FRIDAY Scrooge! The Musical 7:30pm, The Library Theatre, Hoover, see December 3.

Christmas with Amy Grant 8pm, Wright Center, Samford University.

Grant, the best-selling contemporary Christian artist, will present holiday arrangements with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra and in partnership with Samford. Tickets, www. alabamasymphony.org.

East Lake Market 8am-noon, East Lake United Methodist Church.

Mt Laurel Farmers Market 8am-noon, Town of Mt Laurel.

Valleydale Farmers Market 8am-noon, 4601 Valleydale Road.

Breakfast in Santa’s Workshop 8:30-10am, McWane Science Center. Bring your little elves to eat breakfast, make crafts, explore the Winter Wonderland exhibit and visit with Santa! Bring your camera! Ticket includes museum admission. Reservations required. 205-714-8414, www.mcwane.org.

Santa’s Breakfast & Workshop 8:30am, 10am, Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School, 5510 Double Oak Lane. Breakfast, pictures with Santa, and the kids can do some inexpensive shopping for the family at Secret Santa Workshop! No admission, but please bring one non-perishable food item per child.

Reservations required. 205-999-0165, www. olvbirmingham.com.

Breakfast with Santa – North Shelby Library 9-9:30 breakfast buffet; 9:30-10:30, craft and pictures with Santa, North Shelby Library.

Registration is required for this fun event! $5 per person, due at time of registration. Call 205-439-5504 to register.

Breakfast with Santa – Birmingham Zoo Birmingham Zoo. Make your reservation for this popular event. Breakfast at the Kudzoo Café followed by a visit from Old Saint Nick!

Children receive a special treat. Reservations, information, www.birminghamzoo.com.

PLEASE NOTE: Events may change after publication deadline; please phone ahead to confirm important information. The deadline for submitting calendar items for the Feb. 2016 issue is Jan. 3. Mail calendar items to: Calendar, Birmingham Parent, 3590B Hwy 31 S #289, Pelham, AL 35124; fax to 987-7600; e-mail to calendar@BirminghamParent.com; or enter directly to the online calendar at www.birminghamparent. com. Entries added online after the print deadline will not appear in the print version. Information cannot be accepted over the phone. Birmingham Parent publishes a calendar 11 times a year. January events are included in the December issue.

Guidelines: Birmingham Parent’s calendar is intended to be a resource and service to the community and our readers. Events which are open to the public, fund-raisers, free classes, etc., are events that may be included in our monthly calendar. We reserve the right to reject any event or listing due to rules or space restrictions.

For questions regarding calendar entries, call 987-7700 or e-mail calendar@birminghamparent.com.

calendar

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A Cheery Canyon Christmas 10am-5pm, Little River Canyon Center, Fort Payne. Winter wildlife feeding, sustainable giving, Christmas arts and crafts, secret Santa gift shop, photos with Santa, puppet shows and more. Most programs free; for schedule, 256-782-5697, www.jsu.edu.

Yuletide in Dogtown 3pm, 5pm, UAB Alys Stephens Center. The dogs are back in town for this ArtPlay/ASC favorite holiday production! Family-friendly production. Afterward, stay to meet the stars in costume. $9 children, $11 adults. 205-9752787, www.AlysStephens.org.

Polar Express PJ Parties 3pm, 6pm movie times; 4:30-6pm, party, McWane Science Center. The return of the Polar Express PJ parties and the beloved movie! Cookies, hot chocolate and a visit with Santa! Wear your PJs! www.mcwane.org.

Scrooge! The Musical 7:30pm, The Library Theatre, Hoover, see December 3.

6 SUNDAY

HANUKKAH BEGINS American Girl: Girls Just Like Me: Festival of Trees 2pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, see December 3.

Yuletide in Dogtown 5pm, UAB Alys Stephens Center, see December 5.

8 TUESDAY Gingerbread Workshop 6:15pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster.

Make tasty-looking houses! All children must be with an adult. Families must sign up in advance and prepay $3 per house. Sign up by Monday, December 7. 205-664-6822.

9 WEDNESDAY Southeastern Outings: Cahaba Lily Park 10am, Cahaba Lily Park, Helena. An easy 4-mile hike. Bring water and wear good walking shoes or boots. After walk there is an optional lunch at Frankie’s Market on Morgan Road. Meet in parking lot at 10am. Acyenith Alexander, 205-529-2253.

10 THURSDAY Holiday Music Concert 7:30pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts. Savor the sounds of the season! Features ASFA Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, choir and Concerto delle Donna. Tickets $10 adults, $5 students.

205-458-0360, www.djdtheater.org.

OLV Christmas Band Concert 7:30-8:30pm, Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School, under the direction of Ron Peters. 205991-5963, www.olvbirmingham.com. FREE.

11 FRIDAY George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker 7:30pm, Wright Center, Samford University.

The Alabama Ballet presents this annual Christmas classic, one of only eight companies in the world granted the right to perform this ballet by the Balanchine Trust. Tickets, www.alabamaballet.org.

“The Muttcracker” 7:30pm, Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex. The Birmingham Ballet’s canine-filled version of this holiday favorite!

Beautiful dancing found in the traditional The Nutcracker along with something special.

Benefits the Birmingham Humane Society.

Tickets, information, 800-745-3000, Ticketmaster and BJCC ticket office.

Holiday Music Concert 7:30pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts, see December 10.

12 SATURDAY Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, 1130 22nd St. S. Rain or shine.

Fresh produce and much more. Holiday market!

East Lake Market 8am-noon, East Lake United Methodist Church.

Mt Laurel Farmers Market 8am-noon, Town of Mt Laurel.

Valleydale Farmers Market 8am-noon, 4601 Valleydale Road.

Decked Out Dash and Carnival 7am registration, 8am 5K, 9am fun run, Heardmont Park, Cahaba Valley Road. The Arc of Jefferson County presents this fund-raising fun event! Carnival opens at 8am and features Santa photos, face painting, a jump house, karaoke, snow play and more. Carnival, $10 per person. www.arcofjeff.org.

Breakfast in Santa’s Workshop 8:30-10am, McWane Science Center. Bring your little elves to eat breakfast, make crafts, explore the Winter Wonderland exhibit and visit with Santa! Bring your camera! Ticket includes museum admission. Reservations required. 205-714-8414, www.mcwane.org.

Breakfast with Santa – Birmingham Zoo Birmingham Zoo. Make your reservation for this popular event. Breakfast at the Kudzoo Café followed by a visit from Old Saint Nick!

Children receive a special treat. Reservations, information, www.birminghamzoo.com.

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker 2:30pm, 7:30pm, Wright Center, Samford University, see December 11.

Polar Express PJ Parties 3pm, 6pm movie times; 4:30-6pm, party, McWane Science Center, see December 5.

Trussville Christmas Parade 3-4pm, city of Trussville. Parade begins on Parkway Drive and end at the Trussville Mall where there will be a Christmas tree lighting ceremony and snow! Photogenic contest prior to the parade; winners will have the opportunity to have a float in the parade! Information, 205655-7535, www.trussvillechamber.com. FREE.

12 SATURDAY FROZEN – An Interpretation in Dance 1pm, 3pm, 5pm, 7pm, Mountain Brook High School Fine Arts Auditorium. Birmingham Dance Theatre presents this favorite! Four shows available; audience members will be able to visit and take photos with their favorite

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calendar Frozen characters between shows.

For information, tickets, www. frozenbirmingham.com.

FREEFORM 7pm, The Dance Foundation, 1715 27th Court South, Homewood. This performance features The Dance Foundation students and guest professional modern dance company Sanspointe. Tickets free, but required as seating is limited. All ages welcome! 205-870-0073,www. thedancefoundation.org.

13 SUNDAY FREEFORM 2pm, The Dance Foundation, Homewood, see December 12.

Southeastern Outings: Oak Mountain State Park 1pm, Oak Mountain State Park.

Moderate 4-mile walk. Well-behaved, properly-supervised children 8 and up able to walk the distance welcome. Depart 1pm from the park office parking lot. $4 per person ($1 seniors) park admission fee plus water. David Shepherd, 205-240-4681, davidshep2@netscape.net.

Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra Holiday Concert 2pm, 4pm, Riverchase Galleria, Hoover. Ring in the season! Shop and listen or catch the musical magic.

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker 2:30pm, Wright Center, Samford University, see December 11.

Polar Express PJ Parties 3pm, 6pm movie times; 4:30-6pm, party, McWane Science Center, see December 5.

15 TUESDAY Birmingham Science Café 6-8pm, John’s City Diner. Topic: Energy and the Environment by Corey Tyree, director of energy and the environment, Southern Research Institute.

An Evening with Santa 6:15-7pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Santa and Mrs. Santa will greet families and listen to children’s Christmas wishes. All children must be with an adult.

Wacky Tacky Christmas Light Tour 5:30-8pm, Avondale Brewing Company. Wear your tackiest Christmas sweater, hop on the bus and visit Birmingham’s tackiest yard décor! Casual meal included.

Proceeds benefit Fresh Air Family scholarships. Bus leaves every 20 minutes. $25 adults, $10 children 12-under for non-members; $20 adults, $7.50 kids for members.

Casual meal included. Groups

Calendar sponsored by

can schedule a special bus time.

Information, reservations, 205540-6642, events@freshairfamily. org, www.freshairfamily.org.

16 WEDNESDAY Holiday Party!

10-11:30am, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Children and caregivers are invited to a fun-filled morning featuring Santa and Mrs. Santa, gingerbread man decorating, and a horse-drawn carriage ride around the library! All children must be with an adult.

Wacky Tacky Christmas Light Tour 5:30-8pm (buses run), Avondale Brewing Company, see December 15.

18 FRIDAY George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker 7:30pm, Wright Center, Samford University, see December 11.

19 SATURDAY Dash Away 5K and Jingle Bell Junction 8am-2pm, Camp Fletcher. This new Camp Fire event will include a 5K run alongside a family-fun event (food, drinks, photos with Santa, vendors, crafts, games, etc.). There also will be a Frosty Fun Run and a Holly Jolly Hundred (100-yard dash for kids 6-under. Information, register, www.campfire-al.org.

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker 2:30pm, 7:30pm, Wright Center, Samford University, see December 11.

20 SUNDAY Southeastern Outings: Buck Creek 2pm, Buck Creek, Helena. A 4-mile hike on a creekside trail. Well-behaved, properly-supervised children age 8 and up welcome.

Depart 2pm from the Helena City Park parking lot. Teresa Smotherman, 205-337-5878.

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker 2:30pm, Wright Center, Samford University, see December 11.

22 TUESDAY

FIRST DAY OF WINTER 24 THURSDAY

CHRISTMAS EVE 25 FRIDAY

CHRISTMAS DAY 31 THURSDAY

NEW YEAR’S EVE

36 | birminghamparent | december 2015

JANUARY 2016 1 FRIDAY

NEW YEAR’S DAY 18 MONDAY

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY King Holiday at BCRI Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. Join BCRI for a day of celebration and service. Galleries open to the public at 9am, and no admission is charged. www.bcri.org.

Birmingham Zoo Food Drive In the spirit of service this holiday, bring any non-perishable or canned food item and receive half-price admission to the zoo. Limit one per guest. www.birminghamzoo.com.

21 THURSDAY Preview to Preschool Kingdom Open House 5:30-7pm, Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School. Programs for three- and four-year olds with convenient hours and the option for extended care. Meet with preschool teachers, parents and students! 205-991-5963, www.olvbirmingham.com. FREE.

23 SATURDAY Red Shoe Run 7:30am, 10 mile; 8am, 5K; 8:30am, fun run, Rosewood Hall, Soho Square, Homewood. Fundraiser for the Ronald McDonald House!

Music, face painting, bouncy house, snacks and more. Information, fees, www.redshoerun-bham.org.

24 SUNDAY Catholic Schools Open House Noon-2pm, Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School. As part of National Catholic Schools Week January 24-30, OLV begins the annual celebration week with an open house for families, parishioners and community members. FREE.

28 THURSDAY Kindergarten Roundup 5:30-7pm, Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School. Bring your soonto-be kindergartener and saddle up for a rodeo of fun including tours, snacks and children’s activities. Uniform fashion show and more. OLV is a two-time Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. FREE.

events & attractions BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE Sickle Cell Disease on Canvas.

BCRI and the Sickle Cell Foundation of Central Alabama presents the second annual exhibition featuring art created by people who suffer from sickle cell disease as well as parents and caregivers.

Through December 31.

“American Boricua,” a documentary photography exhibition by award-winning photojournalist Wanda Benvenutti. The word Boricua is a term of endearment Puerto Ricans use for one another.

Through Sunday, January 31, 2016 in the Odessa Woolfolk Gallery.

Martin Luther King, Jr., Holiday at BCRI. Join BCRI Monday, January 18, 2016 for a day of celebration and service. Galleries open to the public at 9am; no admission charged.

16th St. N., Birmingham. 205-3289696, www.bcri.org BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART Family Tours: Fall into Fun! Join museum educators to explore the galleries in a fun, interactive experience! Discover Bart the Art Bat’s favorite artworks during these free, drop-in tours. Tours held 10:3011:30am each Tuesday.

Bart’s Art Cart: Drumming up Fun! Free drop-in art program for kids and families features a different theme from galleries and art activity each month. Saturdays from 11am-1pm.

Haitian Flags. An exhibition of Haitian flags made for Vodou religious ceremonies will go on display December 19.

2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham. 205-254-2565, www.artsbma.org BIRMINGHAM ZOO ZooLight Safari presented by Wells Fargo! Be amazed by over one million lights synchronized to

holiday music and plenty of festive activities as the zoo comes alive for 10 nights of holiday-centric fun.

Enjoy a ride on the Candy Cane Train, take a spin on the Jingle Bell Carousel and more as you and your family make memories that will last a lifetime in the transformed winter wonderland. December 4-6, 11-13, 17-23 & 26-31, 5-9pm. $8 Non-members, Members FREE, $12 wristband, $3.50 attractions (plus tax). www.birminghamzoo.com Breakfast with Santa! Make your reservations now for this popular holiday event. Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at the Kudzoo Café followed by a visit from Ole Saint Nick himself! All children receive a special treat upon arrival. December 5, 12 & 19. Information, www. birminghamzoo.com.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday. In the spirit of service Monday, January 18, 2016, bring any non-perishable or canned food item and receive half-price admission to the zoo. Limit one per guest. www. birminghamzoo.com.

In-park Special Attractions: Giraffe Feeding & Keeper Chat, Saturday & Sunday 11am-12pm & 2-3pm, $3. See Griffin, the first giraffe born in a North American accredited Zoo in 2014!

Sea Lion Training, Daily 10am & 2pm Predator Zone, Saturday & Sunday 11:30am & 3:30pm 2630 Cahaba Road, Birmingham.

205-879-0409, www.birminghamzoo.com HEART OF DIXIE RAILROAD MUSEUM Ride the North Pole Express!

Through December 19. Tickets, information, www.hodrrm.org.

Ride the Santa Special! Through December 19. Tickets, information, www.hodrrm.org.

1919 Ninth St., Calera. 205-6683435, www.hodrrm.org

MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER Winter Wonderland! It’s that time again! Come enjoy the most magical place around, from the Ice Slide, the zip line and the train.

Through January 10, 2016.

The Magic of Model Trains. This annual exhibit is something to remember and brings visitors back year after year! Through January 10, 2016.

Breakfast in Santa’s Workshop!

Bring your little elves to eat breakfast, make crafts, explore the Winter Wonderland exhibit and visit with Santa! Bring your camera!

Ticket includes museum admission.

Reservations are required. December 5, December 12, 8:30-10am.

205-714-8414, www.mcwane.org.

Polar Express PJ Parties! The return of the Polar Express PJ parties and the beloved movie!

Cookies, hot chocolate and a visit with Santa! December 5, 12 and 13, 4:30-6pm; movie times, 3pm, 6pm.

Itty Bitty Magic City. This 10,000-square-foot area allows children newborn to kindergarten to learn in a fun and playful environment.

Body Worlds Rx. The institute for Plastination – organizers of the renowned Body Worlds anatomical and health exhibitions, presents a special new exhibition for the times we live in. January 27-February 1, 2016.

Member Mondays. Every Monday, McWane Science Center members receive extra perks while visiting! Includes a special gift for kids when checking in, 30 percent discount on gift shop purchases, $1 small popcorn at IMAX concession stand and a free members-only evening event each month. Also, on the second Monday of each month, McWane opens its doors from 5-8pm for its members.

IMAX Movies: Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

On Friday, December 18 the new

movie will blast into McWane’s IMAX Dome Theater! Don’t miss it!

Advance ticket sales are available by calling 205-714-8414 or buying direct at the ticket counter inside McWane Science Center.

Santa vs. the Snowman. A lonely snowman finds Santa’s workshop, but when he sets off the alarms and is chased away, he wonders why he couldn’t be Santa and get all the love and fun this year! An annual favorite. Through December 31.

Rocky Mountain Express. Retracing the original route aboard the majestic steam engine 2816, the audience is transported back to the age of steam to relive this alpine nation-building odyssey.

Through January 10, 2016.

Robots. Today’s robots are nothing short of astonishing. A sneak peek into the future. Opens January 22, 2016.

200 19th St. N., Birmingham.

205-714-8300, www.mcwane.org.

SOUTHERN MUSEUM OF FLIGHT 4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham.

205-833-8226, www.southernmuseumofflight.org VULCAN PARK Darkness into Life: Alabama’s Holocaust Survivors through Photography and Art. Vulcan Park and Museum, partnering with the Birmingham Holocaust Education Center, presents this sensitive exhibit of photography by Becky Seitel and art by Mitzi J. Levin. The paintings and photographs accompanied by educational narratives.

Through May 16, 2016.

1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham. 205-933-1409, www.vulcanpark.org

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poetry party

by Charles Ghigna

Christmas Poems Picking Out a Tree

A Holly Day

Christmas trees are such a tease, Choosing one’s a chore; There’s Fraser fir, blue spruce, Scotch pine And many, many more.

A holly tree, A holly berry, A holiday And we are merry.

But by the time we take one home All of us agree, It’s not a pine or fancy spruce-It’s now a Christmas tree!

A star above To wish upon, A winter’s eve, A snowy dawn.

I See Christmas!

All red and green Along the way, A holly time, A Christmas day.

I see bows and candy canes, Baby dolls and choo-choo trains, Tinsel, stars, and mistletoe, Mittens, sleds, and lots of snow.

I see bells and decorations, Ornaments from many nations, Holly, candles, manger scenes, Red poinsettias, evergreens.

I see home-made pumpkin pie, Stacks of presents piled high, Reindeer, elves, and Santa’s sleigh-I see Christmas on the way!

NOW YOU TRY IT!

For more poetry activities, visit the Father Goose website at FatherGoose.com. Want to

Write a rhyme or two about what you like to do during your Christmas holidays.

submit YOUR poems for publication? Parents, here are some magazines that publish poems

38 | birminghamparent | december 2015

written by children: http://www.ckmagazine.org • http://www.magicdragonmagazine.com, http://www.cricketmag.com

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