Erin Fray gave birth to a baby boy on a Tuesday and was diagnosed with breast cancer three days later. The Pooler mother of three had her newborn Samuel with her at the OB/GYN office on Oct. 15 when her doctor told her she had stage one invasive ductal breast cancer.

Certainly, there is no “good” time to be diagnosed with such an aggressive form of cancer, but three days after having a child? It’s hard to imagine bravely taking on that battle with a newborn, plus a 2- and 3-year-old at home.

But that’s exactly what Erin is doing, with overwhelming support from her husband, Matt, a pastor at First Presbyterian Church of Pooler and a part-time teacher at Savannah Christian Preparatory School, and from their close-knit community.

Family and friends, members of their church, Erin’s Mothers of Preschoolers group and other churches help out in so many ways, bringing the family meals, baby-sitting, dropping off diapers, running errands and raising money.

This Tues. Dec. 14, an Erin Fray fundraising dinner will take place at Chick-fil-A of Pooler. Ten percent of the purchases made between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. will go toward helping to pay for medical costs not covered by the Frays’ insurance. The public is invited to attend. For more info on the event, click here.

Jamie Deen, son of Paula Deen and celebrity in his own right, will be one of the Celebrity Servers at Chick-fil-a Tuesday. Other local Celebrities include the Mayor of Pooler, Savannah Christian Headmaster Roger Yancey and WSAV’s Alice Massimi.

Please invite others to join!

Erin, 30, is documenting her battle as a young mother with cancer in the blog Joy in the Journey at erinfray.blogspot.com.

Take the kiddos INDOORS this winter!!

Savannah Celtic FC offers an amazing program for children between the ages of 30 months and 4 years old. Savannah Celtic Early Goals works to develop coordination and comfort with a soccer ball at their feet.

This winter Savannah Celtic is offering sessions INDOORS at an indoor soccer facility. Enjoy the safety of an enclosed field (walls are always good with this age), the warmth of a heated building, and the sight of your little ones having a blast playing soccer.

Now in its 8th season, ’Early Goals’ is a fun, action-packed soccer program specifically designed to cater for the youngest players ages 2 (30 months) to 4. Coaches will work on simple motor skills, ball familiarity and hopefully plant the seed for a lifetime of enjoyment.

With one session a week, ’Early Goals’ is a safe, non-competitive environment which focuses on the fundamentals of the ’beautiful game’. The season ends with a scrimmage and selection of fun activities. Every session will be overseen by one of Savannah Celtic’s professional club coaches.

To register for the Winter 2011 season, click here.

Winter Schedule

Tuesday 5- 5:45pm Jan. 11 to Feb. 15 at SuperGoose Indoor Arena
Sunday 2-2:45pm Jan. 23 to Feb. 27 SuperGoose Indoor Arena

For more info or to register your child, click here.

I have a clean home thanks to Ms. Frannie!

There was no way I was going to be able to appropiately clean my house while preparing for Christmas and my daughter’s birthday party, while also finishing some freelance writing assignments.

So I called Ms Frannie to clean my home. And she delivered – just in time for my daughter’s birthday party.

Ms Frannie has been doing housekeeping services all over Savannah for over 20 years. She is dependable, honest, and always reliable. Ms. Frannie also offers other personal services that can make life easier for you or your loved ones. Whether it is residential or commercial, give Ms Frannie a ring.

You will love her prices and the special touch she can give your house to make it sparkle and shine..

Ms. Frannie’s Services:
Deep Spring Cleaning
Weekly & Bimonthly cleaning
Light cleaning
Ironing
Laundry

Additional Services:
Care for elderly/errands
Plant Care
Dry-Cleaning Drop off/Pickup

Just send Ms Frannie an email and let her know what services you need and she can give you a quote. You can also call her anytime!

Gift certificates also available and make a fantastic gift for the holidays!

Contact:
Email: Savannahhousekeeping@gmail.com
Phone: 912-691-0183

A Savannah recording company offers a fun idea for the holidays: put your child singing a favorite Christmas Carol on your holiday card – along with holiday photo and live recorded Christmas greeting.

Carol-O-Cards are a way to give the gift of holiday cheer for Christmas! The perfect gift for grandparents and parents.

This Carol–O –Card will feature:
1. A Holiday picture of your Child or Children
2. A Christmas Photo Card
3. Live recorded Christmas Greetings
4. A recording (CD) of your child singing their favorite Christmas Carol.
A unique Gift for Christmas.

Cost: $35 with a 20 percent military discount or 15 percent SouthernMamas discount on Carol-O-Cards

Recording/Photo Sessions are by Appointment Only.
Kingdom Recording Studios
6203 Abercorn Street
Suite 300
Savannah, Georgia 31406

Make your appointment by emailing: Majestickingdomgroup@gmail.com or call 912-412-9885.

Visit Majestic Kingdom Recording Studios Web site by clicking here.

A professional guitar/bass player with 10-plus years of experience will soon start teaching at Ms. Amy’s School of Music in Savannah , a private studio just two blocks from Daffin Park in Savannah. SouthernMamas readers receive a special one time half-price lesson.  

Guitar/bass teacher Anthony Teixeira has just relocated to this area. He has taught at both public and private schools, and worked extensively with youth organizations and in music studios throughout the Northeast. His degree is in Jazz studies and he has an excellent working knowledge of the musical language. Anthony offers lessons on guitar/electric bass guitar/and double bass. Lessons are individualized to the student and focus on such skills as hand technique, theory, learning songs, note reading, and improvisation.

Whether you’re an adult looking to polish up your skills or you’re interested in signing up your beginner child, Anthony has the experience. This would be a great holiday gift idea for the budding musician.Contact Anthony at 401-255-6921 or a.teixeira472@gmail.com to schedule a one time 1/2 price lesson. This offer is exclusively for SouthernMamas  readers.

Ms. Amy’s School of Music, 2421 Waters Ave. near Daffin Park

The Web-based children’s boutique My Georgia Babies has an amazing sale going on right now that includes children’s holiday attire at great prices. Check out the children’s clothing and accesssories by clicking here.

My Georgia Babies carries both girls and boys, sizes 0-6 years. Let My Georgia Babies Children’s Boutique dress your children!

SouthernMamas readers receive 10 percent off purchases. The discount code is Southernmama.

My Georgia Babies offers elegant dress up clothes as well as the most rugged play clothes, specially chosen for your special baby or child to grow and flourish in, all at great prices.

The Web shop is best known for same-day shipping. All items that we have in stock will be shipped the same day you place your order.

What does this all mean? You can count on My Georgia Babies Children’s Boutique for a safe hassle-free shopping experience every time! Please email jennifersy44@gmail.com for more information.

UPDATE: Winner is Liz St.Lawrence! Congratulations Liz!

All American Pressure Cleaning has proudly been serving the Lowcountry for over 10 years and this week is offering to a Free “Day at the Spa” for your home to one lucky SouthernMamas reader.

This week, win a complete exterior house wash (valued at $300) which includes the removal of all mold, mildew and other surface pollutants utilizing All American’s exclusive low-pressure, soft-wash process and Mildew Preventative Treatment.

1. Read the post above this one and tell us how much of a discount SouthernMamas readers receive from the Web shop My Georgia Babies Children’s Boutique?

2. Read the post below this one and tell us when the Stella & Dot Sip & Shop is?  

3. Read the post further down on the main page about Hubbard’s Maid Service and tell us how much of a discount Hubbard’s offers on your first time cleaning?

All American Pressure Cleaning is extending a 10 percent discount to all SouthernMamas readers as well as a free sidewalk cleaning for all House Washes scheduled before Jan. 15.

All American Pressure Cleaning has taken pressure washing to the next level, having spent over a decade developing and refining a proprietary soft wash system of exterior cleaning which incorporates custom engineered equipment, eco-friendly cleaners and a highly trained staff providing the most effective and affordable way to bring back the beauty of your property’s exterior. 

Mike Vidan, “The Dean of Clean”, All American Pressure Cleaning, 912-308-8544. For lawn care services, All American Property Maintenance

You’re invited to a night of Stella & Dot, desserts and cocktails!

Try on some of the most coveted jewelry today as seen in In Style, Lucky and even Southern Living! Looking for that perfect gift for your mom, sister, best friend, daughter, grandmother or something just for you? Stella & Dot has just what your looking for. From vintage style looks to modern day luxe, Stella & Dot offers an array of affordable and stylish jewelry.

6-8 PM Dec. 15, 2010 at Lulu’s Chocolate Bar, 42 MLK Jr. Blvd. Savannah, GA 31401

Take a look at the online store to get a peek at what will be offered by visiting www.stelladot.com/tinar or www.stelladot.com/kthornton.

Bring a friend and receive free shipping! Shipping usually takes 3-5 business days.

Dessert and Wine will be served while you browse.

Enjoy the holidays without spending the season cleaning. Hubbard’s Maid Service in Savannah and the Lowcountry is offering 50 percent off your first time cleaning with regular service. Hubbard’s will even throw in a gift-wrapped bottle of merlot. Call 912.961.9131 for a free quote. Mention SouthernMamas to receive your discount.

Hubbard’s Maid Service also has gift cards available so you can give a loved one the chance to celebrate the holidays and freedom from housework. Talk about the perfect present! Click here for gift card info.

Serving Savannah & the Lowcountry since 2004, Hubbard’s Maid Service has been keeping thousands of houses and offices spotless. You can be assured that Hubbard’s licensed, bonded, and insured team has one goal: your complete satisfaction! No office, house, store, or construction site is too small or large for Hubbard’s cleaning crews.

Hubbard’s Maid Service, 912.961.9131, www.hubbardsmaidservice.com

UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium  on Skidaway Island will be closed for renovations Dec. 6 2010 to Feb. 13 2011.

After 40 years, the aquarium will replace the glass tank fronts on the exhibits. All tanks will be drained and the fish relocated to temporary tanks elsewhere. Follow the aquarium’s progress on their Facebook page here.

During this time the Jay Wolf Nature Trail and picnic area will be open dawn to dusk. The Skidaway Interpretive Cabin will be Open Monday-Friday 9AM-4PM.

 UGA’s Marine Education Center and Aquarium is at 30 Ocean Science Circle, Skidaway Island.

Newly opened  Sara Jane Children’s Boutique at 202 E. 37th St. in Sisters Court offers weekly holiday deals. This upcoming week of Dec. 6 it’s 30 percent off all pajamas. Also, if you’re pregnany, Sara Jane Children’s Boutique is offering a $25 gift certificate when you register with Sara Jane before Jan 1st.

The upscale boutique has a sweet deal for SouthernMamas readers: $20 off a purchase of $200 or more.  Mention you read about Sara Jane Children’s Boutique on SouthernMamas to receive your discount!

Children’s clothing lines carried include Petunia Pickle Bottom, The Sweeteas, Palm Tree Princess (made in Hawaii), Bailey Boys, Zuccini, Angel Dear, Magnolia Baby and Mud Pie. Offering newborn to size 6 for girls and boys.

“Like” the Sara Jane’s Facebook page to stay connected by clicking here. 

Sara Jane Children’s Boutique, 202 East 37th St. Savannah, Ga 31401, in the location in Sisters Court formerly occupied by Bella Mia Bridal Shop. Email: sarajanekids@comcast.net, 912-596-9506, Hours 10 AM-6 PM Mon-Fri, 10 AM-5 PM Sat. www.sarajanekids.com

Oatland Island Wildlife Center has two baby bison which are are now on exhibit. Come visit the newest members of Oatland’s herd.

Stop by the gift show between now and Sat. Dec. 18 to submit names for Oatland’s “Name the Bison” contest. Submissions will be accepted until noon Sat. Dec. 18.

The public is invited to help Oatland select winning names by casting votes on the top 10 finalists ($1 donation per vote) Votes will be accepted be accepted between Dec. 18-Dec. 31.

On Sat. Dec. 18, Oatland invites the public to celebrate the new bison babies from 10 AM-4 PM. Events include a bison-themed scavenger hunt; vote on your favorite bison name; Bison Olympics from 11 AM-2 PM; Bison-themed snacks at 1 PM.

For more info on Oatland Island Wildlife Center in Savannah, click here.

Stylist JC Davis at Park West Salon in downtown Savannah across from Forsyth Park is offering SouthernMamas readers a great deal just in time  to look fabulous for those holiday parties: $15 off any Hair Cut and Color Service Combination.

JC Davis – a hair stylist for 9 years and American Board Certified Hair Colorist – returns from maternity leave (Congratulations!) on Dec. 7.  She is offering $15 off any Hair Cut and Color Service Combination to Southernmamas.com readers.  Just mention you read about JC Davis on SouthernMamas to receive your discount at the time of service. Offer valid until Feb. 28 2011.  The discount cannot be used with any other discount offers.

JC Davis has training from Vidal Sassoon, Paul Mitchell and Bumble & Bumble. She was with Greener Grass Hair Color and Design for the past 6 ½ years and is pleased to announce her return back to the downtown area at Park West Salon.

JC Davis is offering $15 off any Hair Cut and Color Service Combination to Southernmamas.com readers.  Just mention you read about JC Davis on SouthernMamas to receive your discount at the time of service. Offer good until Feb. 28 2011.

JC Davis is a SouthernMamas sponsor.

Stylist JC Davis at Park West Salon is located at 106 West Gwinnett St Suite 1A, 912-349-4856, www.parkwestsalonsavannah.com
or email ccarol_s@yahoo.com

Here’s a fun twist on your annual holiday tradition of checking out downtown Savannah’s decorations: vote for your favorite display in the Modern Holiday window display competition.

In celebration of the Telfair’s exhibition “Modern Masters from the Smithsonian American Art Museum”, downtown Savannah businesses have designed creative holiday window displays based on a selected reproduction from the Modern Masters exhibition.

Participating stores incorporate the reproduction of artwork, along with their own products, into a creative window display that reflects the holidays and the Modern Masters exhibition.

Check out these downtown store window displays and text your vote for your favorite window display. To vote for your favorite display, text the corresponding number to 22333.

An American Craftsman 219796
Bleubelle 219793
Bicycle Link 219802
Clipper Trading 219801
DC2 219800
Globe Shoe Co. 219795
Grateful Hound 219799
James Gunn 219794
James Hogan 219797
Levy Jewelers 219783
Mason 219798
Oliver Bentleys 219791
Paris Market 219792
Red Clover 219781
Zia 219782

Savannah-area families with children with special needs are invited to a enjoy a Sensory Friendly Santa Experience 9-11:30 AM Sat. Dec. 4, 2010 at Guyton Christian Church, 301 Pine Street (Corner of Third street and Pine in Guyton)

Have your family visit Santa in a sensory friendly environment. Santa has experience with children with special needs and is patient, friendly and kind. Have your picture taken with Santa. Enjoy a Christmas activity and snack. Feel free to bring your own GFCF snack as well. Minimal decorations and low-level Christmas music.

Hosted by the Guyton Christian Church Youth Group. Event is FREE, however, please RSVP by Dec. 1.

Vicki at 661-1418 themimiv@aol.com or Jennifer @ 355-9098 or email jennifermcgee4@comcast.net

The Dog Who Saved Christmas ABCFAM Nov 29, 7:00PM
Christmas In Rockefeller Center 2010 NBC Nov 30, 8:00PM
Rudolph The Rednosed Reindeer CBS Nov 30, 8:00PM
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966) ABC Nov 30, 8:00 PM
It’s A Wonderful Life NBC Nov 30, 9:00PM
Dr. Seuss on the Loose ABCFAM Dec 1, 6:00PM
Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax ABCFAM Dec 1, 6:30PM
Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat ABCFAM Dec 1, 7:00PM
Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch Grinches The Cat in the Hat ABCFAM Dec 1, 7:30PM
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas ABCFAM Dec 1, 8:00PM
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas ABCFAM Dec 1, 10:00PM
A Flintstone Christmas ABCFAM Dec 2, 6:00PM
The Santa Clause ABCFAM Dec 2, 7:00PM
Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town ABC Dec 2, 8:00PM
Scrooged AMC Dec 2, 8:00PM
The Santa Suit HALMRK Dec 2, 8:00PM
The Santa Clause ABCFAM Dec 2, 9:00PM
Scrooged AMC Dec 2, 10:00PM
The Polar Express ABCFAM Dec 3, 6:00PM
The Polar Express ABCFAM Dec 3, 8:30PM
A Christmas Carol (1938) TCM Dec 4, 9:00AM
Jack Frost ABCFAM Dec 6, 6:00PM
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer & the Island of Misfit Toys ABCFAM Dec 6, 7:00PM
Martha Stewart’s Holiday Open House HALMRK Dec 6, 8:00PM
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory ABCFAM Dec 6, 8:30PM
Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day ABCFAM Dec 7, 6:00PM
Winnie the Pooh and Tigger Too ABCFAM Dec 7, 6:30PM
Mickey’s Christmas Special – TV Premiere ABCFAM Dec 7, 7:00PM
Cranberry Christmas ABCFAM Dec 7, 7:30PM
A Charlie Brown Christmas ABC Dec 7, 8:00PM
Frosty’s Winter Wonderland ABCFAM Dec 7, 8:00PM
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York ABCFAM Dec 7, 8:30PM
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York ABCFAM Dec 8, 6:00PM
Miracle on 34th Street ABCFAM Dec 8, 8:30PM
Rudolph’s Shiny New Year ABCFAM Dec 9, 6:00PM
The Gruffalo – ABC Family Original Special ABCFAM Dec 9, 7:00PM
Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town ABCFAM Dec 9, 8:00PM
Shrek the Halls ABC Dec 9, 8:00PM
The Santa Incident HALMRK Dec 9, 8:00PM
The Year Without a Santa Claus ABCFAM Dec 9, 9:00PM
A Miser Brothers’ Christmas ABCFAM Dec 9, 10:00PM
The Year Without a Santa Claus ABCFAM Dec 10, 6:00PM
Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town ABCFAM Dec 10, 7:00PM
A Christmas Carol (1938) TCM Dec 10, 8:00PM
The Santa Clause ABCFAM Dec 10, 8:00PM
Scrooge (1970) TCM Dec 10, 9:30PM
Santa Clause 2 ABCFAM Dec 10, 10:00PM
Jack Frost ABCFAM Dec 11, 3:00PM
The Santa Clause ABCFAM Dec 11, 5:00PM
Santa Clause 2 ABCFAM Dec 11, 7:00PM
White Christmas AMC Dec 11, 8:00 PM
Frosty the Snowman CBS Dec 11, 8:00 PM
Meet Me In St. Louis TCM Dec 11, 8:00PM
An Old-Fashioned Christmas HALMRK Dec 11, 8:00PM
Frosty Returns CBS Dec 11 8:30PM
Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause ABCFAM Dec 11, 9:00PM
The Flight Before Christmas CBS Dec 11, 9:00 PM
White Christmas AMC Dec 11, 10:45PM
Jack Frost ABCFAM Dec 11, 11:00PM
Frosty’s Winter Wonderland ABCFAM Dec 12, 7:00AM
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas ABCFAM Dec 12, 7:30AM
Once Upon a Christmas ABCFAM Dec 12, 8:00AM
Twice Upon a Christmas ABCFAM Dec 12, 10:00AM
Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause ABCFAM Dec 12, 12:00PM
Santa Baby – An ABC Family Original Movie ABCFAM Dec 12, 2:00PM
Santa Baby 2 Christmas Maybe ABCFAM Dec 12, 4:00PM
Christmas Cupid ABCFAM Dec 12, 8:00PM
Christmas Cupid ABCFAM Dec 12, 10:00PM
A Flintstone Christmas ABCFAM Dec 13, 6:00PM
Christmas Cupid ABCFAM Dec 13, 7:00PM
Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat ABCFAM Dec 14, 6:00PM
Dr. Seuss’ Pontoffel Pock, Where Are You? ABCFAM Dec 14, 6:30PM
Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch Grinches The Cat in the Hat ABCFAM Dec 14, 7:00PM
Puff the Magic Dragon ABCFAM Dec 14, 7:30PM
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas ABCFAM Dec 14, 8:00PM
I Want a Dog for Christmas, Charlie Brown ABC Dec 14, 8:00PM
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas ABCFAM Dec 14, 10:30PM
Disney’s Prep & Landing ABCFAM Dec 15, 6:00PM
Finding Nemo ABCFAM Dec 15, 8:30PM
Finding Nemo ABCFAM Dec 16, 6:00PM
Gift of the Magi HALMRK Dec 16, 8:00PM
The Incredibles ABCFAM Dec 16, 8:30PM
A Charlie Brown Christmas ABC Dec 16, 10:30PM
The Incredibles ABCFAM Dec 17, 6:00PM
Yes, Virginia CBS Dec 17, 8:00PM
WALL-E ABCFAM Dec 17, 8:30PM
Mickey’s Christmas Special ABCFAM Dec 17, 10:30PM
The Little Drummer Boy ABCFAM Dec 18, 7:00AM
The Little Drummer Boy Book II ABCFAM Dec 18, 7:30AM
Nestor, the Long-Eared Christmas Donkey ABCFAM Dec 18, 8:00AM
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas ABCFAM Dec 18, 8:30AM
Pinocchio’s Christmas ABCFAM Dec 18, 9:00AM
Jack Frost ABCFAM Dec 18, 10:00AM
Frosty’s Winter Wonderland ABCFAM Dec 18, 11:00AM
Rudolph & Frosty’s Christmas in July ABCFAM Dec 18, 12:00PM
Rudolph’s Shiny New Year ABCFAM Dec 18, 2:00PM
The Year Without a Santa Claus ABCFAM Dec 18, 3:00PM
A Miser Brothers’ Christmas ABCFAM Dec 18, 4:00PM
Santa Claus’ Is Comin’ To Town ABCFAM Dec 18, 5:00PM
WALL-E ABCFAM Dec 18, 6:00PM
Toy Story ABCFAM Dec 18, 8:00PM
Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town ABCFAM Dec 18, 10:00PM
Happy Feet ABCFAM Dec 18, 11:00PM
Winnie The Pooh and the Blustery Day ABCFAM Dec 19, 7:00AM
Richie Rich’s Christmas Wish ABCFAM Dec 19, 7:30AM
A Dennis the Menace Christmas ABCFAM Dec 19, 9:30AM
Home Alone 2: Lost In New York ABCFAM Dec 19, 11:30AM
Scrooge (1970) TCM Dec 19, 12:00PM
The Year Without a Santa Claus ABCFAM Dec 19, 4:00PM
Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town ABCFAM Dec 19, 5:00PM
Toy Story ABCFAM Dec 19, 6:00PM
Toy Story 2 ABCFAM Dec 19, 8:00PM
Toy Story 2 ABCFAM Dec 19, 10:00PM
Christmas Do-Over ABCFAM Dec 20, 7:00AM
A Carol Christmas ABCFAM Dec 20, 12:00PM
Snow – An ABC Family Original Movie ABCFAM Dec 20, 2:00PM
Snow 2 Brain Freeze ABCFAM Dec 20, 4:00PM
Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day ABCFAM Dec 20, 6:00PM
Winnie the Pooh and Christmas Too ABCFAM Dec 20, 6:30PM
Phineas and Ferb Christmas Vacation ABCFAM Dec 20, 7:00PM
Disney’s Prep & Landing ABCFAM Dec 20, 7:30PM
Santa Buddies – ABC Family Premiere Event ABCFAM Dec 20, 8:00PM
Santa Buddies ABCFAM Dec 20, 10:00PM
Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day ABCFAM Dec 21, 7:00AM
Winnie the Pooh and Tigger Too ABCFAM Dec 21, 7:30AM
Santa Baby ABCFAM Dec 21, 8:00AM
Christmas Cupid ABCFAM Dec 21, 2:00PM
Jack Frost ABCFAM Dec 21, 4:00PM
Miracle on 34th Street ABCFAM Dec 21, 6:00PM
The Polar Express ABCFAM Dec 21, 8:30PM
The Story of the First Christmas Snow ABCFAM Dec 22, 7:00AM
The Leprechauns’ Christmas Gold ABCFAM Dec 22, 7:30:00AM
Jack Frost ABCFAM Dec 22, 10:00PM
Richie Rich’s Christmas Wish ABCFAM Dec 22, 12:00PM
A Dennis the Menace Christmas ABCFAM Dec 22, 2:00PM
Ice Age ABCFAM Dec 22, 4:00PM
Santa Buddies ABCFAM Dec 22, 6:00PM
The Santa Clause ABCFAM Dec 22, 8:00PM
Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause ABCFAM Dec 22, 10:00PM
Winnie the Pooh and Christmas Too ABCFAM Dec 23, 7:00AM
Ice Age ABCFAM Dec 23, 11:30AM
Happy Feet ABCFAM Dec 23, 1:30PM
The Polar Express ABCFAM Dec 23, 4:00PM
The Santa Clause ABCFAM Dec 23, 6:30PM
The Life & Adventures of Santa Claus ABCFAM Dec 24, 7:00AM
The Little Drummer Boy ABCFAM Dec 24, 8:00AM
Nestor, the Long-Eared Christmas Donkey ABCFAM Dec 24, 8:30AM
A Flintstone Christmas ABCFAM Dec 24, 11:00AM
Pinocchio’s Christmas ABCFAM Dec 24, 12:00PM
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas ABCFAM Dec 24, 1:00PM
Rudolph & Frosty’s Christmas in July ABCFAM Dec 24, 1:30PM
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer & Island of Misfits Toys ABCFAM Dec 24, 3:30PM
Mickey’s Christmas Special ABCFAM Dec 24, 5:00PM
Winnie the Pooh and Christmas Too ABCFAM Dec 24, 5:30PM
Jack Frost ABCFAM Dec 24, 6:00PM
Scrooge (1970) TCM Dec 24, 6:00PM
Frosty’s Winter Wonderland ABCFAM Dec 24, 7:00PM
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas ABCFAM Dec 24, 7:30PM
It’s a Wonderful Life NBC Dec 24, 8:00pm
A Christmas Story Marathon begins TBS Dec 24, 8:00pm
Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town ABCFAM Dec 24, 8:00PM
The Year Without a Santa Claus ABCFAM Dec 24, 9:00PM
Rudolph’s Shiny New Year ABCFAM Dec 24, 10:00PM

Wildly popular artist and art instructor Carrie Christian is gearing up for Savannah winter art classes for CHILDREN AND ADULTS at Scribble Art Studio, 212 E. 37th St., at the corner of 37th St. and Abercorn St. directly behind Sara Jane Children’s Boutique.

To sign up for any of the classes below, contact Carrie at 912-323-0123 or email carrieachristian@hotmail.com.

Pre-K Art ClassesSign Up for Winter Pre-K Art Classes!
Starts: Sat. Jan. 8th – Feb. 26, 10:30-11:30
Cost: $80 for 8 classes (includes all supplies)
Lessons are designed to help create a foundation on which your child’s artistic education will grow and blossom!

Scribble Art Studio

Group Art Lessons (ages 5-7)
Limited Availability!
Starts: Fri. Jan. 7th – Feb. 25th, 4:30-5:30
Cost: $160 for 8 lessons (includes all supplies)
Drawing, Painting, and Sculpture are a few techniques we will be exploring! Classes kept small to ensure lots of personal attention!

Adult Watercolor Class
Starts: Thurs. Jan. 6th – Feb. 24th, 7:00-8:30
Cost: $200 for 8 lessons (includes some supplies)
Classes designed for those who have always wanted to explore watercolor painting. This class will begin with the basics and slowly move into more extensive techniques. No experience necessary, Beginners welcome!

To sign up for any of the above classes, contact Carrie at 912-323-0123 or email carrieachristian@hotmail.com. Click here for more info. Scribble Art Studio is a sponsor of SouthernMamas.com.

Your kids have been eyeing your neighbor’s backyard PlayNation playset and are asking for one for Christmas.

Don’t panic. You can buy a playset for a discount from a local authorized PlayNation playset dealer: Taylor’s Quality Landscaping Bluffton.

Taylor’s is offering 50 percent off PlayNation playset install, which is a minimum of a $150 value or greater depending on which playset you select. ($300 is the least expensive installation cost). Mention SouthernMamas to receive your discount.

Dec. 6 is the deadline to order a PlayNation play set from Taylor’s to guarantee arrival by Christmas.

PlayNation playsets are designed to provide your children with plenty of activities to stay active, play outside and have fun. Check out the 2010 playsets available at Taylor by clicking here. Taylor’s has a play area with seven demo playsets on display for parents to stop by and see the sets in person and for the kids to try out for themselves. Located at US 278 and SC 170 next to Matthews Marine, Taylor’s playsets are visible from U.S. 278.

Taylor’s Quality Landscape Supply, 36 Cecil Reynolds Rd at US 278 and SC 170, Bluffton, 843-705-2600, www.taylorspinestraw.com

Thanks to a SouthernMamas reader for telling us about Holiday Lights Safari Benefit, an award-winning seasonal attraction in the upstate of South Carolina in Inman near Spartanburg. It’s a mix of wild animals and holiday lights – every kid’s dream.

The Holiday Lights Safari Benefit is a one-of-a-kind event that runs nightly from Nov. 20, 2010 – Jan. 2, 2011, (including all holidays). You drive your own vehicle through nearly 100 acres decorated with millions of twinkling lights, dazzling holiday themes, light sculptures, a life-sized Nativity, plus HERDS OF LIVE ANIMALS and much more.

Highlights include the “Enchanted Deer Forest,” where you will encounter herds of free roaming animals. Also included in the Holiday Lights is “The Walk” where you can park, get out of your vehicle, pet and feed many of Hollywild’s friendly animals; gather around the bonfire, roast marshmallows, drink hot-cocoa. There are also pony rides, bottle babies, a giant slide, visits with Santa, photos with Santa’s babies. Santa and his Elf are there every night through Dec. 24

Opening nightly from 6 PM – 9 PM. with extended hours on weekends through December. For more info, click here. Cost: $6 per person. Children younger than 2 are free.

A slew of open houses at schools are happening this season. If you are looking into schools for the 2011-12 school year, below are a few open houses to check out. If you’d like to have a school included in this list, please email the info to anne@southernmamas.com:

UPDATE: Winners are Starr Ritchie and Kirsten Mullis!

This week, two SouthernMamas readers will win THE SCHOLASTIC TREASURY OF 100 STORYBOOK CLASSICS, VOLUME 2. These DVD gift sets are valued at $99.95 each and feature 100 award-winning and classic children’s stories from “Goodnight Moon” to the beloved adventures of Corduroy.

To enter to win, email answers to the two following questions to anne@southernmamas.com. Deadline to enter is Sun. Nov. 28. We’ll announce the winner here then. The questions are to make sure you’re reading all the SouthernMamas posts.
1. Read the post above entitled “Discounted PlayNation play sets in Savannah/Bluffton” and tell us the name of the Bluffton company selling the PlayNation playsets at a discount?
2. Read the post below entitled “Online e-letter: children’s activities in Savannah/Bluffton for the week of Nov. 22” and tell us one event you’d like to do.

The comprehensive Treasury 17-DVD collection is nearly 20 hours of quality entertainment which together have won more than 115 awards including the prestigious Caldecott Medal. Packed with celebrity narration from stars such as Stockard Channing, Mia Farrow, Cyndi Lauper, John Lithgow and many others, this must-have gift set also features Scholastic’s innovative read-along function that highlights words as they are read, supporting early literacy skills.

The TREASURY features classic stories such as “Bark George”, “Bear Snores On”, “Caps for Sale”, Diary of a Worm”, “The Dot”, “The Emperor’s New Clothes”, Giggle Giggle Quack”, “Is Your Mama a Llama?”, “Joseph Had a Little Overcoat”, “Miss Nelson Has a Field Day”, “The Night Before Christmas”, “So You Want to Be President”, The Teacher From the Black Lagoon”, “Zin! Zin! Zin! A Violin” and many more.

Just returned from the opening Disney on Ice Princess Classics show at the Savannah Civic Center. What a true treat! Of the three Disney on Ice shows, this was my favorite. Loved seeing my kids enjoy firsthand the classics of my youth and seeing the Seven Dwarves on skates belting out “Heigh-Ho” and “Whistle While You Work.”

The first half of the show is devoted to all the major Disney princesses: Jasmine, Ariel, Sleeping Beauty, Belle, Mulan, and Snow White. Cinderella, her mice and crew are the focus of the second half. Tinker Bell  is there throughout the show as fun narrator of sorts. Don’t worry, Mickey and Minnie are also ever present.

This is a sweet event and you really should catch one of the following shows this weekend.

Fri. Nov. 19 @ 7:30 pm
Sat. Nov. 20 @ 11:30 am
Sat. Nov. 20 @ 3:30 pm
Sat. Nov. 20 @ 7:30 pm
Sun. Nov. 21 @ 2:30 pm

Children 2 and Up Must have a Ticket

TICKET PRICES: $12 – $40
To order tickets, click here. Select which show you want to attend. Then under “Select Tickets By”, select the listing that reads “Southern Mamas” and use the password “mammas.”

The City of Savannah urges motorists heading to the Civic Center Saturday morning for the Disney on Ice Princess Classics to choose your route carefully to avoid conflict with the Savannah State University Homecoming Parade. The Homecoming Parade is scheduled to begin at 9 AM Saturday. The route starts at East Broad and Gwinnett streets. It heads north on East Broad, west on Broughton Street, and south on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, ending at Anderson Street. Those streets will be barricaded during the Parade.

Disney on Ice begins at 11:30 AM Saturday, when the Parade is expected to still be going. A good route to the Civic Center is from I-16 to the Montgomery Street Exit. Other routes from the south include Drayton Street, Montgomery Street and Lincoln Street.

Disclosure: We received tickets at no cost for this review.