Outdoor alternatives: Atlanta’s BEST indoor play areas - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

Outdoor alternatives: Atlanta’s BEST indoor play areas - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

FREE Candy Cane Hunt & holiday activities at Mable House Saturday - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

I've never been to the Mable House before but have heard great things. This event looks so cute and fun and you can't beat free. It might be cold but that's what coats are for! Check it out: FREE Candy Cane Hunt & holiday activities at Mable House Saturday - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Astor Holiday Rink at the St. Regis is now open - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

I'm checking this out on Wed and REALLY looking forward to it. It is a bit on the expensive side but seems totally worth it. I'll let you know on Wed. Here's the dets: Astor Holiday Rink at the St. Regis is now open - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Value-packed winter getaway packages to the Ritz-Carlton Lodge - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

We are going down to the Lodge in 2 weeks and I can't wait to check out these holiday events at this resort. I've heard great things and plan to explore it all myself. These holiday packages are surprisinging affordable for familie. Check 'em out! Value-packed winter getaway packages to the Ritz-Carlton Lodge - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

A Stone Mountain Christmas is a can’t miss family event - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

We had soooo much fun at this event. I had never been before and really didn't know what to expect. But I love Christmas and so wanted to check it out. And check it out we did. We came. We saw. We conquered. I highly recommend this for all families. Check out our day here: A Stone Mountain Christmas is a can’t miss family event - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Black Friday Pizza deal at Stevi B’s - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

I love Stevi B's. Maybe it's because I love pizza or because it means I don't have to cook. Or maybe it's because it's pretty cheap, great varieties of pizza, and it's loud enough so I don't worry about my kids yelling or crying. Plus, 3 and under eat for free everyday so all my kids are free. Get the details on the deal for this Friday here: Black Friday Pizza deal at Stevi B’s - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Atlanta’s best Thanksgiving dinner options (part 2) - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

More options!
Atlanta’s best Thanksgiving dinner options (part 2) - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Atlanta’s best Thanksgiving dinner options (part 1) - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

These are great alternatives to cooking/cleaning at home! Atlanta’s best Thanksgiving dinner options (part 1) - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Sweet deal from Mamapedia: 50% off at Coco Bonbons at Phipps Plaza

This is such a good deal for ATL moms that I had to pass it on.  Mamapedia has a great offer for moms looking for cute holiay/winter clothing at Coco Bonbons at Phipps Plaza.

From their site: "Those plain shirts and onesies are great for everyday wear, but once in a while you want to glam it up a bit AND still be comfortable. You’d like to pick out an outfit for your kiddo that no one could have chosen for her but you. The Atlanta area is definitely not lacking for cute boutiques, but you still haven’t found the one with stuff that totally resonates with you. Until you walked past Coco Bonbons at the Phipps Plaza Mall, that is."
"Today’s "Sweet Deal" from Mamapedia will give you a $30 voucher good on cute kids’ apparel at Coco Bonbons for only $15! Plus, you can use two on each visit. That’s a fantastic saving on clothes you won’t find at those big box stores. Just in time for the holidays, you can buy unique gifts for your child’s great tastes. Coco Bonbons prides itself on using quality fabrics and detailed embroidery, and making each piece of clothing like wearable works-of-art."

Coco BonBons Boutique

Phipps Plaza Mall 3500 Peachtree Road, Ste E9
Atlanta, GA 30326

Note:  Make sure to read the fine print before buying certificate.

Atlanta’s 1st holiday celebration: Christmas Tree Lighting at Atlantic Station - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

If you're around Atlanta this weekend, you should put this event on your schedule. It is so fun and so...Christmasy! Unfortunately, we have plans so we won't be able to attend but let me know if you go. Be sure to go VERY early and make a day of it. They have plenty of activites, food, and shopping to take up your time until the lights come on at 8pm. Enjoy!
Atlanta’s 1st holiday celebration: Christmas Tree Lighting at Atlantic Station - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Big discount for holiday shopping at Children’s Hospital gift shops - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

I was at Children's at Scottish Rite about a month ago and was surprised by their cute gift shop. I bought some cute things for the kids and felt good because all the proceeds go back to the hospital to help sick kids. I think it would be great if everyone did just a bit of their Christmas shopping at these gift shops to get great gifts and help others too. And if that's not enough, want 25% off EVERYTHING in the store? Check out the coupon and details here: Big discount for holiday shopping at Children’s Hospital gift shops - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Production company looking for families affected by autism for new TV show

Pietown Prodctions, a Los Angeles-based television production company, is in the early stages of developing a documentary series about families that have multiple children with Aspergers syndrome or Autism. They are currently seeking families that might be interested in participating.
They believe this show could be a great opportunity to shed light on misconceptions surrounding an individual's ability to live a normal life with this disorder(s). They say their intent is to produce a thoughtful and respectful series that will lead to a greater understanding and sensitivity about Aspergers and/or Autism through the real-life perspectives of the family members featured.

If you are interested in participating contact: Nina Corbett, Development Casting Producer, at nina_corbett@pietown.tv.
More information on the production company:
Pie Town Productions is an award-winning company that was founded in 1995. They have produced over 3,200 episodes of programming in a variety of formats from daily series to network specials to weekly reality shows. Their client list over the last fifteen-plus years includes: Discovery, TLC, Paramount, A&E, WE, Lifetime Television, Logo, CMT, Discovery Heath, the Food Network, and HGTV. They have brought over 44 series, 36 special projects, and 1 feature documentary to the market, including the Emmy-award winning A Baby Story. They are currently producing the new Food Network hit, Meat and Potatoes and WE's new family docu-soap, Downsized. To see more about their programming go to http://www.pietown.tv/.

Meet Project Runway star, Anthony Williams, at North Point Mall Saturday - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

This event looks very fun! Plus, I LOVE North Point Mall. I have another event that day so I won't be able to make it. I really want to know what the "glamorous free gift" will be for the first 50 attendees. And more importantly, I wonder what Anthony Williams, one of my fav Project Runway stars, is like in person. Hmmm.... Info: Meet Project Runway star, Anthony Williams, at North Point Mall Saturday - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Update on the McGhee Sextuplets: Media attention has sparked donations - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

This family is so positive...so welcoming of the blessing of 6 children...I just hope they get the help they need. I am just in awe of them and especially the way Mia McGhee talks about the children to the media...she seems so in control. I'm glad they are now getting some attention and hope it doesn't fade away.
Update on the McGhee Sextuplets: Media attention has sparked donations - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Build a Better Lunchbox event at Loews Atlanta tomorrow - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

This looks like a fun event. I'd love to get some tips for lunches for my kids. I put the same things in each time. I do think my kids a still a little young for this though. But does look cool...

Details: Build a Better Lunchbox event at Loews Atlanta tomorrow - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

My scariest moment as a parent

It was 3 years ago when I had a 2 month old.  One tiny 2 month old.  She couldn't talk or walk.  She wasn't asking for a snack, to go outside or find her favorite blanket.  She didn't want to watch Dora or play baby doll or sing "Itsy Bitsy Spider" with her (again) because she forgot the words.  Yet, I was overwhelmed.  She wanted to breastfeed all the time and never wanted to be put down.  And she cried...all the time...for no good reason.  Yes, I was overwhelmed.

 I remember catching a glimpse of myself in the mirror.  I hadn't showered in an embarrassingly long period of time.  I was still carrying most of my "baby" weight, which is such a bad look.  I had on blue baggy sweat pants and a non-matching breastfeeding accessible button down shirt that was stained with spit up (which is a polite way of saying baby puke) and my breasts had leaked through.  My hair was matted and caked with Lord knows what.  I saw myself and in that moment thought "what have I done?!? Who is that person?  Where did the hip, cool, delicious Maria go?  And the scariest question of all: will she ever come back?

And then, she laughed.  (I tear up thinking about it now.)  And I forgot about the mirror and the crazy way I looked and everything else because my daughter laughed...at me.  And I wasn't scared anymore.  I knew this is what I was supposed to be doing. 

Eventually, I took a shower and put on some clean clothes.  Eventually, I lost the weight (ok some of it) and got my hair done.  Eventually, my baby stopped spitting up and I found some good breast pads.  And then I felt so confident I did it all over again with 2 more babies.  I still have my moments but I'm not scared anymore.  I'm a mom.  Mamalicious Maria...that's me!

Publix launches DRIVE THROUGH service in Atlanta - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

OMG! This looks amazing. I don't live anywhere near Toco Hills but I used to and know the area well. I would travel there if needed to use this service. Sometimes, I don't mind going to the grocery store but there are other times when I would rather run naked through my subdivision then taking my 3 kids to Publix. I SOOOOOO wish that they would extend the drive through service to more locations. Maybe if it catchs on they will. Have you tried it? Let me know! More info: Publix launches DRIVE THROUGH service in Atlanta - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Center for Puppetry Arts debuts Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer production - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

This production looks so cute! I love the TV original. I didn't know it was from 1964! Everyone can relate to feeling like a misfit every once in awhile and I love the heartwarming ending where all the misfits come together. I'm looking forward to seeing Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer at the Center for Puppetry Arts!
More info: Center for Puppetry Arts debuts Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer production - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Meredith Vieira and other celebrities complete NYC marathon - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

I think this is so inspiring. Meredith is 55 years old and she ran 26.2 miles! That's incredible. Pretty interesting to read about the other celebs who ran it and their times. One celeb ran it in 3 hours another took over 7 hours. Get all the details here:
Meredith Vieira and other celebrities complete NYC marathon - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Santa Claus returns to historic Rhodes Hall this holiday season - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

I have always wanted to see the inside of this house. I love all things historic and I'm sure it will look even better all decked out in the holiday decorations. Get a $5 discount here: Santa Claus returns to historic Rhodes Hall this holiday season - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Holiday happenings at Town Center at Cobb - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

I haven't been to this mall but keep wanting to check it out. It looks so super kid-friendly. They have a play area and some great stores.

Holiday happenings at Town Center at Cobb - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Megabloks Mommy Party

I was given the opportunity to host a Mommy Party for Megabloks last month.  I had 12 moms and 14 kids from the North Cobb Mocha Moms to my house for our bimonthy support group and let the kids play with the Megabloks.  Since it was the week before Halloween, we made it a Halloween/costume party.  And boy did we have fun!

The little ones wore costumes and the moms enjoyed some yummy brunch foods.  The Megabloks blocks were AWESOME distractions for the kids who ranged from 6 months to 3 years old.  It's not often you find a toy that kids of a variety of ages can use and have fun with together.  The megabloks cars and boats were also a hit, especially the pink ones for the girls.  The megabloks table has been played with everyday at our house since it was put up.  The kids build "towers" or my 3.5 year old will build a city.  They also pretend it's a racetrack since a car comes with it and you can adjust the top so there's a solid circle for the car to go round and round.  \I'm really impressed with the quality of the products and how well they stand up to my kids.

Check out the pictures:

Holiday festivities start with Santabration this Saturday - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

This is a bit far for me but looks really fun. I've only been to the Mall of GA once and didn't really get to spend a lot of time there. They do seem to have some cool family-friendly activities there. Get all the info here: Holiday festivities start with Santabration this Saturday - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Atlanta’s best Sunday brunch returns this holiday season - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

OMG...this brunch is sooo good! The dessert area is just fantastic since I am a sweets conniseur. We have been here on several occasions and always had a great meal and a great time. Families with young kids are totally welcome but I think I'd get a babysitter next time. The good thing is that they don't charge for kids under 5. Not like my kids eat a whole lot so that's nice. Get the details here:
Atlanta’s best Sunday brunch returns this holiday season - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Great ways to recycle and reuse leftover Halloween candy - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

Great ways to recycle and reuse leftover Halloween candy - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com

Easy, delicious recipes for leftover Halloween candy - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com

We have so much candy at our house so these recipes are perfect. The chocolate toffee caramel cookie bars are delicious. Now I will just have to give the treats to friends. Or I will eat them ALL! Check out the recipes here:
Easy, delicious recipes for leftover Halloween candy - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com