Friday, January 28, 2011

doodle4google

Welcome to Doodle 4 Google, a competition where we invite K-12 students to use their artistic talents to think big and redesign Google’s homepage logo for millions to see. At Google, we believe that dreaming about future possibilities leads to tomorrow’s leaders and inventors, so this year we're inviting U.S. kids to exercise their creative imaginations around the theme, "What I’d like to do someday…"

Whether students want to find a cure for cancer or take a trip to the moon, it all starts with art supplies and some 8.5" x 11" paper. And, one lucky student artist will take home a $15,000 college scholarship and $25,000 technology grant for their school, among many other prizes.

Registration closes at 11:59:59 p.m. Pacific Time (PT) on March 2, 2011, and entries must be postmarked by March 16, 2011 11:59:59 p.m. Pacific Time (PT). The winning doodle will be featured on our Google.com homepage on May 20, 2011.

More info HERE.

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

babies-r-us "great trade-in event" (jan 28-feb 21)

Trade in any car seat, stroller, travel system, high chair, play yard, bassinet, crib, or toddler bed when you bring in a USED ONE. **Great way to recycle old, broken, or out-of-date car seats! NO LIMIT. Trade in as many as you want!

25% discount valid on day of trade-in only. In store only. Valid at both BabiesRUs and ToysRUs stores. Only the brands listed are participating.

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

weekly fun (jan 26-feb 2)

Click for ongoing MON|TUES|WED|THURS|FRI|SAT|SUN events

(WED) Wonderful Winter Wonderland
Family Fun Night at The Children’s Museum, Seattle includes broom hockey, sock skating, curling, igloo building, penguin plunges and more.
Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2011, 6 – 8 p.m.
The Children’s Museum, Seattle
305 Harrison St.
Seattle WA 98109
All ages; $5, free age 12 months and younger
Pre-register; 206-441-1768

(WED) IKEA Car Seat Inspections
FREE car seat inspections from 9-10:30am in the Far West Parking Garage

(WED) U DISTRICT: Package bulk foods Volunteer Opportunity!
Help package bulk foods purchased with PCC food bank program donations from PCC shoppers. All ages welcome!
Organization: PCC Natural Markets Food Bank Program
Date and Time: 1/26/2011 7:00:00 PM
University District Food Bank, 1413 N.E. 50th St., Seattle
Hours Required: 2
Contact Phone: 206-547-1222
Contact Email: communityrelations@pccsea.com
Contact Web Link:
Special Requirements: Wear closed toe shoes and layers as it can get cold in the warehouse.
Group Size: 8-20
Age Range: 5 and over
Is the Event Full? Spots still available

(THURS) Borders Books Family Game Night
Bring the whole family and check out our new games section. Try your luck at Split Decision, Billionaire, Rage, Word on the Street, and others.
Where: Redmond - Borders, Redmond Town Center, Redmond, WA 98052
When: Thursday, January 27 - 6:00 PM
Who: Best for ages 6 and up.
How: Just Show Up
Cost: FREE

(THURS) Free Music & Movement Class
Free Mulberry Bush Music and Movement class for children ages newborn to 4 with a parent or caregiver.
Thursday, Jan. 27, 2011, 10 – 10:45 a.m.
University Heights Center
5031 University Way N.E.
Seattle WA 98105
Infant, Toddler, Preschool
FREE
Pre-register; 206-686-2201
info@mulberrybushmusic.com

(THURS) Author/Illustrator Appearance – Paul Schmid
Help Paul Schmid celebrate the publication of his first book as both the author AND illustrator, A Pet for Petunia (reading level ages 4 to 8). Treats, games and more.
Thursday, Jan. 27, 2011, 7 p.m.
Secret Garden Bookshop
2214 N.W. Market St.
Seattle WA 98107
Preschool, Elementary School
FREE

***(FRI) BRU Great-Trade In event will be from Jan 28 - Feb 21. "Get 25% off any new car seat, stroller, travel system, high chair, play yard, bassinet, crib or toddler bed when you bring in a used one."

(FRI) Children's Film Festival Seattle
Children's Film Festival Seattle. Pacific Northwest’s largest children’s film festival features 125 films from around the world. Film schedule, film summaries and age recommendations available online. Various times daily Jan. 28 through Feb. 6. $9, $6.50 children, unless otherwise noted in the schedule, limited seating, online presales.
Opening Night. A rockin’ pajama party (wear PJs and bring a stuffed animal) includes a concert by Caspar Babypants and a sneak preview of animated films. Ages 3 and older. 7 to 8 p.m. $10, $35 per family of four.
Friday, Jan. 28, 2011
Northwest Film Forum
1515 12th Ave.
Seattle WA 98122
All ages

(FRI) Friday Family Story Hour
What: Budding bookworms settle in for a tale.
Why: Guest readers keep it fresh.
When: Fri., 9:30-10:30 a.m. (Also Feb. 4, 11 & 18.)
Where: Hamlin Robinson School, 1700 E. Union St. (206-763-1167).
Participation is free.

(FRI) Movies at Mercer Slough
Bring a comfy blanket or pillow to enjoy “Greatest Wildlife Show on Earth.” All ages, age 11 and younger with adult.
Friday, Jan. 28, 2011, 5 – 6:30 p.m.
Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center
1625 118th Ave. S.E.
Bellevue WA 98005
All ages; FREE

(SAT) FREE ENTRY DAY AT TACOMA ZOO! Details here

(SAT) Arts Activity with Hope Place at Seattle's Union Gospel Mission.
Volunteer Opportunity! Arrive at shelter from 10am-12pm and do an arts activity and interact with children ages 5-12 at the Hope Place Women and Children's Center Bring a smile and a creative mind!
Organization: Seattle's Union Gospel Mission
Date and Time: 1/29/2011 10:00:00 AM
3802 South Othello Street Seattle, WA 98118
Hours Required: 2
Contact Name: Teylar Greer
Contact Phone: 206-723-0767
Contact Email: tgreer@ugm.org
Group Size: 8-20
Age Range: 6 and older
Spots still available

(SAT) National Puzzle Day
Puzzles everywhere today in The Children’s Museum, Seattle. Activities include story time (all ages, noon), Dance Party (ages 4 to 10, 1:30 p.m.), Theater Club (ages 6 to 10, 3 p.m., pre-register). Included with admission. $7.50, $6.50 grandparents, free ages 12 months and younger.
Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
The Children’s Museum, Seattle
305 Harrison St.
Seattle WA 98109

(SAT) Preschool Fair
Meet representatives from more than 30 northwest Seattle neighborhood preschools. Unsupervised play area available for kids. Sponsored by Moms Club of Seattle NW.
Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
The Family Center, St. Alphonsus School
5816 15th Ave. N.W.
Seattle WA 98107
FREE

(SAT) Tet Festival
Vietnamese Lunar New Year celebration includes traditional lion dance, firecrackers, music, interactive arts and crafts, and visual exhibits. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 29-30.
Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Seattle Center House and Fisher Pavilion
305 Harrison St.
Seattle WA 98109
All ages; FREE

(SAT) Saturday Stories
Stories and activities that celebrate gardens, plants and nature.
Ages 2 to 8 and their families.
Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m.
Elisabeth C. Miller Library
Center for Urban Horticulture
3501 N.E. 41st St.
Seattle WA 98105
FREE

(SAT) Lunar New Year Celebration
Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit in the Chinatown-International District with multicultural entertainment including lion & dragon dance (noon), children’s costume parade (1:30 to 2 p.m.), entertainment and more. Limited parking, public transportation strongly encouraged. See transit.metrokc.gov for bus route information.
Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Hing Hay Park
423 Maynard Ave. S.
Seattle WA 98104
All ages; FREE
Pre-register No

(SAT) Mariners FanFest
Meet Mariners players, pitch in the bullpen, play on Safeco Field, tour the clubhouse and roof control room, and more. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 29-30. $10, $5 ages 6 to 14, free ages 5 and younger, parking pre-purchase $5 ($10 day of event).
Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Safeco Field
1250 First Ave. S.
Seattle WA 98134
All ages

(SAT) Special Storytime @ U Bookstore
Christina Dudley reads from her children’s picture book Mia and the Magic Cupcakes.
Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011, 11 a.m.
University Book Store
990 102nd Ave. N.E.
Bellevue WA 98004

(SAT) Groundfrog Day
Family entertainment, music, hands-on activities, plus the arrival of froggy prognisticator Snohomish Slew searching for his shadow.
Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
First Street and Avenue A
Snohomish WA 98290
All ages; FREE

(SAT) Illustrator Appearance – Richard Jesse Watson
Illustrator Richard Jesse Watson shares his new book, The Lord’s Prayer (reading level ages 4 to 8).
Watson and his team develop a fast-paced collaborative story using cartooning and character-driven fun. Then kids can join in the fun, share their own ideas and draw along to create their own unique characters and plot twists (materials will be provided).
Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
1530 Black Lake Blvd. S.W.
Olympia WA 98502
FREE

(SAT) Experience Dance: Introduction to Modern Dance
No experience needed for this class taught by Eva Stone from The Stone Dance Collective. Ages 10 to adult.
Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011, 12:30 p.m.
Crossroads Community Center
16000 N.E. 10th St.
Bellevue WA 98008

(SUN) Coastal Native Community Celebration
Traditional drum, dance and singing performances from Coastal Salish Native American groups, hands-on crafts and more. FREE, including museum exhibits.
Sunday, Jan. 30, 2011, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Tacoma Art Museum
1701 Pacific Ave.
Tacoma WA 98402
All ages; FREE

(SUN) Party with Recess Monkey
Seattle Children’s Theatre is going to the dogs (and monkeys) when Seattle’s own resident kids rock band Recess Monkey performs in the lobby. Cast members from “Go, Dog. Go!” will also take part in the festivities. Families are welcome – no real dogs please.
Sunday, Jan. 30, 2011, 10 a.m.
201 Thomas St.
Seattle WA 98109
All ages; FREE
Pre-register: Yes
Phone: 206-441-3322
Email: rsvp@sct.org

(SAT) Peter and the Wolf
What: Catch a screening of Bainbridge Symphony Orchestra’s performance of Prokofiev’s score, while puppets bring the plot to life.
Why: Make some noise beforehand at the instrument petting zoo.
When: Sat. Prescreening activities, 9:45 a.m.; screening, 10:30 a.m.
Where: The Pavilion, Bainbridge Cinemas, 403 Madison Ave., Bainbridge Island (206-855-8169).
Suggested donation, $5.

(SAT) Cometa Playschool is having an open house
Saturday, January 29th from 10am to 1pm.
Come meet our teachers and learn more about our awesome preschool program!
3212 California Ave. SW (at Hanford).

(SAT) Caspar Babypants goes to City Hall (but not for politics)
JANUARY 29: Seattle City Hall open house downtown, 11 am-2 pm with performance by West Seattle’s Caspar Babypants, scheduled for 12:45 pm
Just announced by the mayor’s office, a January 29th “open house” at City Hall downtown, with street-food trucks and live music – and one well-known West Seattleite is on the bill: Rocker Chris Ballew in his alter-ego as kids-music-maker Caspar Babypants.

(SUN) Sundays at the West Seattle Eagles
Breakfast is always open to the public, and we have extended our hours 9 am – 12 pm.
The normal breakfast is your choice of: Eggs, Hashbrowns – or Waffles, Pancakes or French Toast, Sausage or bacon or ham slice, Toast, Juice and Coffee
All for $6.00
4426 California Ave SW
West Seattle

(SUN) West Seattle Christian Preschool’s open house
Sunday January 30th from 1-3 pm.
More info: westseattlechristian.org/preschool

(TUES) Nordic Stories
Listen to a Finnish kids’ story and complete a craft project. Preschoolers and parents. Not intended for large groups.
Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2011, 10 – 11 a.m.
Nordic Heritage Museum
3014 N.W. 67th St.
Seattle WA 98117
Age recommendation: Preschool
FREE

(WED) Early Release Gaming at High Point Branch Library (35th/Raymond), 3-5 pm: Come by for open play on the Wii (including MarioKart!), sing your way to stardom with American Idol, rock out with Rock Band, and practice your dance skills with Dance Dance Revolution. Open play on the library’s Wii and PS2 consoles. Beginners to experienced gamers welcome. Children to adult welcomed. Refreshments served. Library events and programs are free and everyone is welcome. Registration is not required.

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

weekly fun (jan 19-26)

Click for ongoing MON|TUES|WED|THURS|FRI|SAT|SUN events

(WED) KidsServe Volunteer Opportunity!
Help package bulk foods purchased with PCC food bank program doantions from PCC shoppers. All ages welcome! Wear closed toe shoes and layers as it can get cold in the warehouse.
PCC Natural Markets Food Bank Program
Date and Time: 1/19/2011 7:00PM
Family Works Food Bank (Fremont), 1501 N. 45th Street, Seattle
Hours Required: 2
Group Size:8-20
Age Range:5 and over
Spots still available; no sign up necessary!

(WED-SAT) Great Play in Kenmore!
Well, great news if you live in the Kenmore area: a new Great Play is opening up this week! You can try out the classes this week for free during their open house from January 19th to the 22nd. You can call to reserve a spot at 425-486-7900.

(THURS) Coal Mining at Cougar Mountain
Learn about coal mining at Cougar Mountain more than 100 years ago. Sponsored by Eastside Heritage Center. Ages 10 and older.
Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011, 7 – 9 p.m.
Lewis Creek Park
5808 Lakemont Blvd. S.E.
Bellevue WA 98006
Elementary School, Middle School, High School
FREE

(FRI) *Family Fun Night At Magnolia Community Center
Magnolia; 6:00pm to 8:00 pm; $3 per child.
Community event featuring bounce houses, lite refreshments and more.
FREE

(FRI) Violent Universe
Planetarium show narrated by Patrick Stewart, followed by a brief tour of the night sky. Ages 6 and older. 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30 p.m., no late seating. Space limited.
Friday, Jan. 21, 2011, 6:30 p.m. & 8:30pm
Bellevue College, Willard Geer Planetarium
B Bldg. room 244
3000 Landerholm Circle S.E.
Bellevue WA 98007
Elementary School, Middle School, High School
FREE
Pre-register; 425-564-3055

(SAT) Winter Tracks at Lewis State Park
Think all animals hibernate this time of year? Think again, and join a ranger to hunt for tracks that indicate what animals are living in the park and adapting to winter surroundings.
Sat., 2 to 3 pm, Bellevue, $3. Event details

(SAT) Family Winter Wonderland at Bellevue Arts Museum
Come in from out of the rain and cold for an afternoon of winter-themed art projects, demos and entertainment.
Sat., 1 to 4 p.m., Ages 4 to 12, Bellevue, Free. Event details

(SAT) Johnny Bregar Concert
The always-entertaining Bregar brings his bluesy, jazzy style to the stage as part of the awesome Kids Rock! Concert series at Mount Baker Community Center.
Sat., 10:30 a.m., Mount Baker, $4/kid; $10/family. Event details

(SAT) Town Mouse, Country Mouse at Shoreline Library
Everybody loves the story of the two mouse cousins who wonder about life in each other’s worlds. This version (performed as interactive theater from Last Leaf Productions) is set in Spain.
Sat., 11 a.m., Shoreline, Free.

(SAT) Eats & Beats: Caspar Babypants at KidsQuest
Caspar Babypants, a.k.a Chris Ballew of The Presidents of the United States of America, delivers sing-along songs for kids AND groovy adults! Before you know it the whole family will be belting out Caspar’s clever tunes while you dance your socks off. Tickets required.
Walk-ups available as space allows.
KidsQuest Children’s Museum
Located inside Factoria Mall
4091 Factoria Mall SE
Bellevue, WA 98006
5:30pm—Doors open and Jet City Pizza available
6:15pm—Music begins (dancing is encouraged!)
Concert will last approximately 45-60 minutes.
$8 member / $10 non-member / $3 food

(SAT) Australia Day Gathering and Barbeque Competition
Barbeque competition, beer and wine and kids’ activities including Australian sports, Australian music and didgeridoos, play area, food and hands-on arts and crafts.
Saturday, Jan. 22, 2011, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Seattle Center Fisher Pavilion
305 Harrison St.
Seattle WA 98109
All ages; FREE

(SAT) Ethnic Celebration
Music and dance on three stages, demonstrations and displays of world traditions, diverse food and craft vendors, and kids’ hands-on crafts.
Saturday, Jan. 22, 2011, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saint Martin’s Marcus Pavilion
5300 Pacific Ave. S.E.
Lacey WA 98503
All ages; FREE

(SAT) Experience Dance: Introduction to Modern Dance
No experience needed for this class taught by Eva Stone from The Stone Dance Collective. Ages 10 to adult.
Saturday, Jan. 22, 2011, 12:30 p.m.
Bellevue Youth Theatre
16661 Northup Way
Bellevue WA 98008
Elementary School, Middle School, High School
FREE
Pre-register; 206-799-6004

(SAT) Family Winter Wonderland
Winter-themed art projects, artist demonstrations and entertainment at Bellevue Arts Museum. Ages 4 to 12 and their families.
Saturday, Jan. 22, 2011, 1 – 4 p.m.
Bellevue Arts Museum
510 Bellevue Way N.E.
Bellevue WA 98004
Preschool, Elementary School
FREE

(SAT) Disney Store – Princess Garden Party- Alderwood Mall
1/22 at 11:00am and 12:30 pm; FREE event; Come dressed as your favorite princess and enjoy crafts and games. Princess must be at least 3 years old, and the parties can hold up to 50 children per session.

(SUN) Tree Planting Party
Help plant trees at Frink Park to celebrate the launch of the new project-sharing website earthbongo.com. The public is invited to meet staff, sign up, and of course, plant trees.
Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Frink Park
398 Lake Washington Blvd. S.
Seattle WA 98144
All ages; FREE

(MON) 25 cent Admission to Tacoma Children's Museum
In celebration of their 25th Anniversary, admission to the Tacoma Children's Museum will be just $0.25 tomorrow!

(MON) Organ Demonstration
Seattle Symphony hosts a demonstration of the Watjen Concert Organ, a 26-foot tall instrument with 4,490 pipes. Today’s recital is “Opera Transcriptions for Organ.” Grades 5 and higher. 12:30 p.m., optional noon or 1 p.m. Benaroya Hall tour.
Monday, Jan. 24, 2011, 12:30 p.m.
Benaroya Hall
200 University St.
Seattle WA 98101
Elementary School, Middle School, High School
FREE

(TUES) Author/Illustrator Appearance – Erik Brooks
Erik Brooks reads from his new book, Polar Opposites (reading level ages 4 to 8).
Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2011, 7 – 7:30 p.m.
Secret Garden Bookshop
2214 N.W. Market St.
Seattle WA 98107
Preschool, Elementary School
FREE

(WED) Wonderful Winter Wonderland
Family Fun Night at The Children’s Museum, Seattle includes broom hockey, sock skating, curling, igloo building, penguin plunges and more.
Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2011, 6 – 8 p.m.
The Children’s Museum, Seattle
305 Harrison St.
Seattle WA 98109
All ages; $5, free age 12 months and younger
Pre-register; 206-441-1768

(WED) IKEA Car Seat Inspections
FREE car seat inspections from 9-10:30am in the Far West Parking Garage

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

weekend fun (jan 13-17)

Click for ongoing MON|TUES|WED|THURS|FRI|SAT|SUN events

(THURS) The Northwest African American Museum is free 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. first and second Thursdays.
Thursday, Jan. 13, 2011, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Northwest African American Museum
2300 S. Massachusetts St.
Seattle WA 98144
All ages; FREE

(THURS) King County Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
A celebration of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. features speakers and music.
Thursday, Jan. 13, 2011, 12 p.m.
5th Avenue Theatre
1308 Fifth Ave.
Seattle WA 98101
All ages; FREE

(THURS) Noontime Recital
Mendelssohn Concerto in E Minor for violin, Andersen Fantasie Concertante for organ from 14-year-old violinist Simone Porter with pianist Irina Akhrin and organist Mark Andersen.
Thursday, Jan. 13, 2011, 12 p.m.
Daniels Recital Hall
811 Fifth Ave.
Seattle WA 98104
All ages; FREE

(THURS) Library Grand Opening
Entertainment, local officials, photo opportunities with Lily the Ladybug Librarian and more at the new Milton/Edgewood Pierce Library.
Thursday, Jan. 13, 2011, 4 – 8 p.m.
Milton/Edgewood Pierce Library
Surprise Lake Square
900 Meridian Ave. E., Suite 29
Milton WA 98354
All ages; FREE

(FRI) Student March for Peace and Justice
Annual gathering in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at Judkins Park. Schools and individuals will march to the Northwest African American Museum (2300 S. Massachusetts, Seattle), where an outside rally includes student poems, chants, songs and more.
Friday, Jan. 14, 2011, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Judkins Park upper playfield
2150 S. Norman
Seattle WA 98144
All ages; FREE

(FRI) Free Soundbridge
Admission is FREE to Soundbridge noon to 4 p.m. Fridays. Musical Storytelling is offered at 1:30 p.m. for ages 2 to 5 (groups of 6 children or larger must pre-register at 206-336-6613).
Friday, Jan. 14, 2011, 12 – 4 p.m.
Benaroya Hall
Second Avenue and Union Street
Seattle WA 98101
All ages

(SAT) Caspar Babypants concert
Come rock out to Caspar Babypants! The PCC Kid Picks team will be at the show, sampling delicious snack foods. Tickets are $3 in advance, $5 on show day.
When Saturday, January 15, 10 a.m.
High Point Community Center
6920 34th Ave. S.W., Seattle

(SAT) Brian Waite Band Concert
Take a mid-day break for some toe-tapping, finger-snapping musical enjoyment, courtesy of the always entertaining Brian Waite Band. P.S. Don’t forget to ask about the cool kids’ music classes Waite does at Dusty Strings! Sat., 11 a.m. to noon, Seattle, Free.

(SAT) Family Fun Day at the Wing Luke Museum
The Littles get to make cool New Year’s postcards (a Japanese tradition) out of recycled materials. Bonus: they get to do it alongside Sansei artist Mizu Sugimura. Sat., 1 to 3 p.m., Seattle, Free.

(SAT) Slithering Snakes at Lewis Creek Park
Got a young ophiophilist in your fam? (Hint: That means snake lover.) This naturalist-led program teaches all about them, why they are important, and even lets kiddos touch them. (For ages 6 and up; registration required). Sat., 10:30 to 11:30a.m., Bellevue, $5.

(SAT) No Name-Calling Storytime at Barnes and Noble
Kids ages 3 to 8 get to learn how to stand up to bullies at this special story time that features readings from books that teach kids how to celebrate everyone’s uniqueness. Sat., 11 a.m., Bellevue, Free.

(SAT) Snow Arts & Crafts
Timely! Explore the form of precipitation we Seattleitles love to hate at Seward Park Audubon's Science of Snow Super Saturday. You'll learn about snow myths and facts, do lots of arts and crafts and more. Free. Saturday, Jan. 15, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

(SAT) Princess Party
In honor of "No Name Calling Week," Seattle's own Cheryl Kilodavis reads from her anti-bullying book My Princess Boy at the U Village Barnes & Noble. It's about her 5-year-old son, Dyson, who loves pink and sparkles -she wrote it to advocate for him with his teachers and fellow students. Free. Saturday, Jan. 15, 11 a.m.

(SAT) Bird Banding Demonstration
Watch as live birds are captured in mist nets, tagged with numbered bands by BirdWatch Student Naturalists, and released.
Saturday, Jan. 15, 2011, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Audubon Center, Seward Park
5900 Lake Washington Blvd.
Seattle WA 98118
All ages; FREE

(SAT) Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Celebration
Music (including a children’s choir), speeches and more.
Saturday, Jan. 15, 2011, 1 – 3 p.m.
Seattle Center House
305 Harrison St.
Seattle WA 98109
All ages; FREE

(SAT) Teen Workshop: Clay
Join ceramic artist Jenn T. Mills and experiment with clay and various sculptural techniques.
FREE for youth in grades 9 to 12.
Saturday, Jan. 15, 2011, 1 – 3 p.m.
Bellevue Arts Museum
510 Bellevue Way N.E.
Bellevue WA 98004
FREE

(SAT) Happy Birthday, Chopin!
FREE concert of Frédéric Chopin’s music, featuring Armenian pianist Dzhaan Dementyeva.
Saturday, Jan. 15, 2011, 2 – 4 p.m.
Central Library, Microsoft Auditorium
1000 Fourth Ave.
Seattle WA 98104
All ages; FREE

(SAT/SUN) Octopus Weekend
The Seattle Aquarium is taking an octopus census this weekend! Visit beaches in West Seattle and Des Moines to learn about the Aquarium's volunteer diver program and find out more about Puget Sound's fascinating octopus population. FREE.
*Saturday, Jan.15, 9am-1pm (Alk)
*Sunday, Jan.16, 9am-1pm (Redondo Beach)

(SAT/SUN/MON) FREENational Park Entrance!

(SAT/SUN/MON) Western Washington All Breed Dog Show
January 15, 2011 - January 17, 2011
Americraft ShowPlex, Pavilion, Centennial Building
Hours: 8am - 6pm
FREE

(MON) Tree Planting Work Party
Help plant up to 600 trees in Shadow Lake Bog. Bring lunch, raincoat and gloves, if available. Bring your own native evergreen trees to plant. Ages 8 to adult.
Monday, Jan. 17, 2011, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Shadow Lake Bog Richter Interpretive Center
21656 184th Ave. S.E.
Renton WA 98058

(MON) Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Commemorate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King at the Washington State History Museum. Living Voices gives 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. performances of “The Right to Dream, a living history dramatization recreating a young African American man’s coming of age in 1950s and 60s Mississippi, Ana Maria Spagna talks about her book "Test Ride on the Sunnyland Bus: A Daughter’s Civil Rights Journey" at 2 p.m. Little ones can become history detectives and learn about African Americans I the Northwest in the Great Hall of Washington History.
Monday, Jan. 17, 2011, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Washington State History Museum
1911 Pacific Ave.
Tacoma WA 98402
All ages; FREE

(MON) Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute & Community Health Fair at Crossroads Mall
With recent tragedies so fresh in our minds, the peaceful messages of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. are as important as ever. Share in the celebration of his legacy by attending the annual Tribute and Community Health Fair at Crossroads Mall in Bellevue. On Monday, January 17, from noon to 4pm, there will be music and arts performances, as well as a health fair. This is a wonderful way to honor the memory of a man who made a lasting difference for the better.

(MON) Third Annual Martin Luther King Day of Service at Cotton Hill Park!
10am-3pm
Cotton Hill Park (110th Ave NE and NE 98th St, Kirkland 98033)
Can you pick up the donated coffee?
Can you bring a snack to share?
Can you help me set up at 9am?
Snacks, beverages, and some tools and gloves provided. Please bring
your lunch.
Things to bring if you have them: gloves, clippers, shovel, stiff rake
Dress for the weather, and WEAR BOOTS!!! It will be very wet and muddy
- and fun!
Volunteers will be working with UW students and the Highlands Neighborhood to remove invasive plants from the UW Restoration Ecology student project site. Volunteers under age 14 must have parent supervision; age 14-17 must have signed parent permission or be accompanied by an adult.

FREE admission to the Bellevue Home Show

RSVP to the Decor & You Seminar "Today's Top Blunders and Risks in Decorating and How to Avoid Them" by Jan 16th and you'll be included on their guest list for FREE admission to the Bellevue Home Show. Decor & You also does Nurseries so great idea for New Moms!

Friday Jan. 21, 2011 @ 5pm in Room 403.
Sunday Jan. 23, 2011 @ 12:30pm in Room 402.

Meydenbauer Center
11100 NE 6th Street
Bellevue, WA 98004

Free Parking @ The Bravern!

What's in it for YOU:
-Door Prizes
-Decorating confidence

RSVP to:
Tiffany Greene
206-795-3686
tgreene@decorandyou.com

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

help the Hamernicks adopt Claire

From Muffin Tin Mom:

Claire is currently in an orphanage in Eastern Europe and is awaiting adoption by the Hamernick family with the help of adoption advocates Reece's Rainbow, a non-profit organization that helps connects loving families with special needs children.

You can follow their journey to adoption HERE on their blog.



Click the link to Muffin Tin Mom to read about the Hamernick Family and how you can buy one of Harry's coloring books - the proceeds of which go directly to adoption and travel costs. You get your choice between an Alphabet Coloring Book and a Numbers 1-10 coloring book. They are filled with uniquely fun images! You may choose 1 for $5 or both for $10. Oh, and clicking on the images will not download the coloring book, you must go through pay pal and the PDF of the book will be EMAILED to you to print out.

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

weekend fun (jan. 6-9)

Click for ongoing Friday events
Click for ongoing Saturday events
Click for ongoing Sunday events

FREE MUSEUM THURSDAY **Call ahead to confirm hours!
* Children’s Museum of Tacoma
* Kids Discovery Museum (Bainbridge Island)
* KidsQuest Children’s Museum
* Bellevue Arts Museum
* Soundbridge @ Benaroya
* Hands On Children’s Museum Olympia
* Seattle Art Museum 10:00am-9:00pm
* Museum of Flight 5:00pm-9:00pm
* Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture *10:00am-8:00pm
* Experience Music Project & Science Fiction Museum *5:00pm-8:00pm
* Henry Art Gallery 11:00am-8:00pm
* Museum of History and Industry 10:00am-8:00pm
*Northwest African American Museum 11:00am-7:00pm
* The Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience 10:00am-8:00pm
* Frye Art Museum *always FREE; donations accepted
* Northwest African American Museum
* Burke Museum

(FRI) *NEW* Birth and Beyond Mommy Meet-Up - starting Jan 2011!
Will occur each Monday, Wednesday and Friday for mothers and their young children. Moms will have the chance to spend time with other local moms while their children enjoy an hour of free play. The second Wednesday of the month will be a group birthday party for any children with birthday's that fall during that month. Check the website for more details.
Time: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 3-4 p.m.
Ages: Mothers and babies or toddlers
Cost: Free

(SAT) Ridge Romp with Casper Babypants
Caspar Babypants is in da house! (He's at the Phinney Neighborhood Center, actually, in the brick building). Lots of musical fun for a tiny price. Saturday, Jan. 8, 10:00am

(SAT) Volunteer Opportunity: Volunteer at Treehouse Wearhouse!
Organization: Treehouse
Date and Time: 1/8/2011 10:00:00 AM
Location 2100 24th Ave South, Seattle, WA 98144
Group Size: 4-12
Age Range: 6 and older
Is the Event Full? Spots still available
Event Outside: No
Hours Required: 4
Contact Name: Meaghan Quinlan
Contact Phone: 206-267-5117
Contact Email: meaghan@treehouseforkids.org
Treehouse can put your group of a dozen or fewer people to work in the Wearhouse, a unique store where foster children shop for free for new and used clothing and other essentials. Volunteers sort, tag and restock merchandise, and they help foster kids and their caregivers during shopping hours. Volunteers contribute over 500 hours per month to the Wearhouse; thanks to volunteer power, more than 2,000 foster children shop at Treehouse each year for the things they need
Special Requirements: On the day of service, you will receive a brief tour and introduction to Treehouse services before you get to work. All Treehouse volunteers are required to pass a background check and complete a volunteer waiver (minors needs a parent/guardian signature).

(SAT) Baby Boogie Bash
Dance party features music from the 80's through today. Scarves, hula-hoops and balloons to use, face painting, diaper changing station and nursing area. Ages 10 and younger with adult. $5 at the door (cash only), free ages 2 and younger.
Saturday, January 8, 2011, 1 – 4pm
Pacific West Performing Arts
1830 Bickford Ave.
Snohomish WA 98290

(SAT) Concerts for Kids
Children’s singer/songwriter Eric Ode entertains with interactive music, stories, skits, poetry and puppets. Ages 4 to 12 with an adult.
Saturday, January 8, 2011, 11am
Northgate Community Center
10510 Fifth Ave. N.E.
Seattle WA 98125
FREE

(SAT) Family Day: Resolution Rhapsody
Make and bind a paper bag book to keep track of your New Year’s resolutions. Included with admission. $12, $10 seniors, military and students, $5 ages 6 to 12, free ages 5 and younger, $36 family.
Saturday, January 8, 2011, 1 – 4pm
Museum of Glass
1801 Dock St.
Tacoma WA 98402