Countdown to opening of Monkey Joe’s Savannah

September 22nd, 2009

monkeyjoeslogoGet ready to bounce.

Monkey Joe’s Savannah is set to open Sat. Oct. 3 at 311 Eisenhower Drive, next to Dr. Ramon Ramos’ office.

The new indoor playground and birthday spot offers bouncing, sliding, and jumping fun for kids 12 years-old and younger. 912-349-2528. Find out more here.

Petite Feet: Your new spot for children’s shoes

September 21st, 2009

petite-feet-button-adHave you checked out Petite Feet yet?

Shopping at Savannah’s newest shoe store for children is a relaxed and enjoyable experience, thanks largely to the fact that it’s a child-friendly store with a comfortable atmosphere.  Puzzles, TV, children’s book and toys keep the tots busy while you shop.

Petite Feet’s knowledgeable personal service ensures that each child is fitted correctly. And you don’ t have to fight for parking spot. Petite Feet at 5521 Abercorn next to Fresh Market and across from Publix is in a super convenient location with easy in-and-out parking.

But best of all are the popular brands Petite Feet carries – all the ones you’ve been searching for, but have a tough time finding in our area: Lilly Kelly, Keen, Merrell, Michael Kors, Morgan & Milo, Naturino, Ralph Lauren, Robeez, Roxy, Sanita, See Kai Run, Simple, Sketchers, Sperry Top-Sider
Teva and many more.

Visit their website at www.petitefeetsavannah.com for more brands and information

The Melting Pot opens this week in Savannah

September 21st, 2009

melting-pot-open-button-adReady to enjoy some fondue?

The Melting Pot on Broughton Street in downtown Savannah opens Wed. Sept. 23

The Melting Pot offers a four-course dining experience, relaxed atmosphere, private tables, fine wines, attentive service and exceptional fondue dinners.

Start with a creamy cheese fondue. Then choose from four flavorful fondue cooking styles and a variety of entrées including filet mignon, lobster, blackened chicken, duck, shrimp, salmon and more. For dessert, enjoy chocolate fondue served with dipping items including fresh strawberries, cheesecake, marshmallows, pound cake and brownies.

Sign up here for Club Fondue. Club Fondue members receive free chocolate fondue for two on your birthday and wedding anniversary. You will also receive monthly emails about The Melting Pot’s grand opening, ladies night out, wine tastings and other fun events.

No more flu shots at the Health Department

September 21st, 2009

flu-shotsForget about getting your child’s flu shot at the Chatham County Health Department.

The Health Department has seen a record demand for seasonal flu vaccine, providing more than 2,700 doses thus far to the community. As a result of a delay in shipment of expected doses ordered, the Health Department will temporarily be unable to provide seasonal flu vaccine as a walk-in service at its Eisenhower and Mid-Town facilities effective Sept. 22.

The Health Department does not have a firm date for expected arrival of the additional vaccine, but will let the public know as soon as the flu vaccine is again available.

It is still early in the year. The Health Department anticipates the ability to offer the seasonal flu vaccine in time for individuals to develop immunity before the peak of the flu season.

Giveaway: free season of toddler soccer

September 20th, 2009

This week, a lucky SouthernMamas subscriber will win a free session of celtic-soccer-logo.jpgSavannah Celtic’s  Early Goals soccer program, which caters to players ages 2, 3 & 4.

The toddler soccer session starts the week of Sept. 28 and runs through Nov. 2. Normally, registration costs $50. But you can win a free soccer program for your toddler.

Check out the rules below to enter to win:

  • The news seems to be much more nutty than normal. Tell us where you turn to find out what’s going on (Local newspaper? A certain local TV news? NPR? Campbell Brown and Anderson Cooper? Google News?)  To enter to win, just click on comments below to share your favorite news source. Entry period closes early this week because soccer starts next Mon. Entry peroid closes 9 pm Wed Sept. 23. Please tell us your name. We’ll pick a name at random and announce the winner Thurs. Sept. 24.
  • You have to be a SouthernMamas subscriber to participate. Subscribing is free. Click here to subscribe. .  
  • The $50 registration fee includes a 6 week program, practice t-shirt, end of the season finale with a medal and certificate.

    All session will be held at the Salvation Army fields on the corner of Washington and Bee Rd. (3000 Bee Rd). All practices are approx. 30-45 minutes.

    Savannah Celtic already offers programs for older children. But also has a this fun, action-packed toddler program for players ages 2-3 & 4. There are no games. Instead, coaches work on simple motor skills and ball familiarity.

    Enter to win even if you already registered your child. If you win,  Savannah Celtic will give you a refund and your tot will play for free.

    Early Goal players will attend one practice session a week. Days to chose from:

    5 PM Mondays
    9 AM Tuesdays
    5:30 PM Tuesdays
    5:30 PM Thursdays

    To register your toddler for Early Goals, contact Michell Laing michell@savannahceltic.com, call 912.495.9996
    or click here.

    The winners of tickets to the Junior League Thrift Sale are…

    September 20th, 2009

    Alyson Beasley-Spinks and Deanna Marie

    Congratulations.

    Each wins a Friday ticket to The 62nd annual Junior League of Savannah Thrift Sale. The sale is 10 AM-2 PM Fri., Oct. 2 and 10 AM-3 PM Sat. Oct 3 at the Savannah Civic Center.

    Admission to the sale $5 on Friday and $3 on Saturday. Items sold on Saturday are half-price. Parking is free.  

    Tickets can be purchased at the Civic Center box office or online here.

    Tybee Pirate Parade, Fireworks, Music

    September 20th, 2009

    pirate-headDollar Tree stores have $1 pirate wear just in time for The 5th Annual Tybee Island Pirate Fest, one of Tybee’s most wildly popular events.

    Pirate weekend is Oct. 8-10. This year, the celebration is bigger than ever, with the “Buccaneer Ball,” Fireworks Extravaganza, Thieves Market, multiple concerts – including the world-famous Marshall Tucker Band – Pirate Victory Parade, Kid’s Activities at Little Matey’s Cove and much more.

    The most popular event, by kids’ standards, is the FREE Pirate Victory parade, which will be at 3 p.m. Sat. Oct. 10 along Butler Avenue The pirates and their buccaneers share their wealth of trinkets and doubloons with the crowd along the parade route.

    Live music will be playing all day and at 9 p.m. Sat. Oct. 10, the Marshall Tucker Band will take the stage. Tickets to Pirate Fest are $10 weekend admission for the festival area and children 12 & younger are free. Click here to purchase advance tickets.

    Other events include:
    The Crab Shack’s Buccaneer Ball, Thurs. Oct. 8. Officials will crown the Pirate Fest King and Queen. Appetizers, cocktails, and music by “The Fundamentals” plus a costume contest for the best pirate and wench. Tickets: $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Click here to purchase tickets online.
    -The pirate invasion begins in the shadow of the Tybee Pier and Pavilion at 5 PM Fri. Oct. 9 The pirates will party Friday night with live music. At 7:30 PM the cannons will fire and the Fireworks Extravaganza will begin. The Thieves Market will be open with treasures for all ages, food and drink, plus The Little Matey’s Cove that will be filled with children’s activities.

    On Fri. Oct. 9, activities in The Little Matey’s Cove kids’ activities include:
    6-9 PM Critters to Go
    6-9 PM Whale Exhibit
    7-8 PM Mr. Magic (magic show and balloon making)
    8-9 PM Lacey (local teen singer)

    On Sat. Oct. 10, activities in The Little Matey’s Cove kids’ activities include:

    10 AM-6 PM Petting Zoo
    10 AM-6 PM Bouncy Rooms
    11 AM-12 PM Free professional face painting for kids by The Puppet People
    NOON-1 PM Angela Beasley Puppet People Show
    1 PM-2 PM Gretchen Greene Dancers
    2 PM -3 PM Angela Beasley Puppet People Show
    3 PM Pirate Victory Parade (Butler Avenue)
    4:30 PM Children’s Costume Contest
    5:30 PM Pet Costume Contest

    Thomas the Tank Engine visits southwest Georgia

    September 20th, 2009

    thomas-train-cordeleThomas the Tank Engine fans get ready. The beloved storybook character is chugging into to Cordele, Ga. for two weekends in October.

    Children of all ages can take the “Day Out With Thomas Great Discovery Tour 2009″ @ SAM Shortline Excursion Train depot in Georgia Veterans State Park on Oct. 23, 24, 25 and Oct. 30, 31 & Nov. 1. Cost: $18 for ages 2 and older. Click here for more info

    Take a 25-minute ride on real train that looks like Thomas the Tank Engine; meet and snap photos with Sir Topham Hatt and Fifi Forget-Me-Not; join in on storytelling and crafts; and enjoy live music, mini-golf, bouncy inflatables, food vendors, wildlife displays and more.

    The train departs every hour on the hour, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Rain or shine. The park is @ 2459 U.S. Hwy. 280 West in Cordele, 9 miles west of I-75 via Exit 101.

    For tickets, call 1 (866) 468-7630 or click here. For more information and directions, click here or call 1 (877) GA-RAILS.

    Raptor Flight Show returns to Statesboro

    September 16th, 2009

    raptor-showSummer’s end means the popular raptors flight show is back at  The Center for Wildlife Education and The Lamar Q Ball Jr. Raptor Center in Statesboro.

    The raptors flight show – with falcons, owls, hawks and more – is at 3 PM Saturdays, following a 2 PM reptile show, that includes insects, tree frogs, snakes and more. The flight show was on hiatus during summer.  

    Other features of the Wildlife Education Center include a Discovery Trail which includes a opossum and skunk; a Habitat Walk includes a live bald eagle in her nest; 10 displays housing several live birds; a wetland preserve with ducks and wading birds, a playground; and “Discovery Logs” where kids can crawl inside and see encased ladybugs, grasshoppers, frogs, beetles and more.

    amphitheater-gsuLarge groups, including school field trips, moms-tot groups and homeschool groups, can request a weekday raptors show. Call 912.478.0831.

    The center also offers several birthday party packages that include the reptile show or bird show. There’s also a Birthday Overnight Camping Adventure.

    The center is open 1- 5 PM  Saturdays during the school year. For more info, click here or call 912.478.0831.

    New Parent-and-Me music class added

    September 16th, 2009

    kindermusik-button-adKindermusik has added a new children’s music class to the fall schedule because of a large demand.

    The additional class – for ages 18 months to 3.5 years – will be at 11:10 on Mondays at Marshview Senior Living, 7410 Skidaway Road. The class was added because the 10:20 AM class for that age group was full.

    There are still spaces left in the Tuesday Wilmington Island class (9:30am) and Saturday’s Southside class (10:20am).

    Online registration is available NOW for this new class, that begins next week Sept 21.

    Kindermusik offers parent-and-me classes for children ages 0-7. Classes will run for 15 weeks and go through late January.

    For more info, click here or call Marina Lindblom
    at 912.728.KEYS (5397). Don’t forget to tell them SouthernMamas sent you!

    A Christmas Carol Train Tour coming to Savannah

    September 15th, 2009

    train-tourHere come the holidays – and it’s only September.

    Get a jump on the holiday spirit with a visit Oct. 13 to Savannah’s Amtrack Station for Disney’s “A Christmas Carol” Train Tour. The FREE interactive Train Tour will make a stop from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 13 at Savannah’s Amtrack Station, 2611 Seaboard Coastline Drive. Again, it’s FREE.

    The train tour, crisscrossing the country with its own colorfully painted diesel engine and cars, features a clip from the 3-D “A Christmas Carol” to be released Nov. 6, as well as Charles Dickens memorabilia and displays.

    The train tour is part of the marketing for “A Christmas Carol,” an animated 3-D movie Jim Carrey. Among the features of the tour is an inflatable 100-seat movie theater that will be erected near the tracks. Audiences don 3-D glasses to watch scenes from the movie.

    For more information, click here.

    Thank you, SouthernMamas reader Emily Khalil for the tip about this fun FREE event!

    Here’s your chance to see Robert Redford in person

    September 15th, 2009

    redfordThe feature film “The Conspirator,” which will be directed by Robert Redford, is seeking those interested in working as extras for filming in the Savannah area. Filming is set to begin in mid-October and will continue into December.

    Casting call will be held from 10 AM to 2 PM Sat., Sept. 19, in the Center Court at the Oglethorpe Mall on Abercorn Street.

    The production company is looking for a large number of adult males, of all types between the ages of 18 and 80, to be included as extras. There is a special need for young adult males with slight builds, as well as men with facial hair, to portray Civil War-era soldiers. Production will also need adult females.

    Those interested must bring a NON-RETURNABLE CURRENT SNAPSHOT of themselves, as no photos will be taken at the casting call. Photos can be a basic snapshot printed at home.

    “The Conspirator” is a story that revolves around the trial of Mary Surratt and her alleged involvement in the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln.

    For more info, email conspiratorasst@gmail.com

    EmmAva Photography offers great rates on children’s fall photo sessions

    September 14th, 2009

    emmava-photography-fall-sessionsEmmAva Photography will host several pint-size autumn picture sessions.

    Pint-size sessions are just a smaller versions of portrait sessions. These pint-sized sessions are 30 minutes for $30. They will be in Forsyth Park on 2:30-5:30 PM Oct. 4 and 9:30 AM-2 PM Oct. 10.

    With your session, you will receive 20 pictures in color and in black and white, with a copyright release, along with a free 5×7 print. If you refer someone new, you will also receive a 5×7 print.

    EmmAva Photography also is available for newborn, children, family, engagement, bridal shoots and weddings.

    For prices, click here or email EmmAvaPhotography@yahoo.com.

    Apple picking, petting farm in North Georgia

    September 14th, 2009

    hillcrest-orchards-logoTime to head to North Georgia to pick apples. Or, at least, partake in apple picking festivities.

    The annual Apple Pickin Jubliee at Hillcrest Orchards in Ellijay – happening this upcoming weekend Sept. 19 &  20 and next weekend Sept. 26 & 27 –  has everything that you associate with autumn and farms: apple bobbing and corn shelling, cloggers and country bands, mule-drawn wagon rides, homemade fried apple pies and caramel apples, and, of course, pippin-picking from dwarf trees.

    Kids can milk Buttercup, the farm’s milk cow; meet Barney the Talking Bull; watch a live bee demo; cheer on pigs racing toward an Oreo cookie; and compete in the John Deere Derby pedal tractor trike track. The farm is open all day, 9 am-6 pm Saturdays and Sundays. Click here for directions and more info.

    Admission: $5. Separate $3 admission to petting farm.

    All activities are available every weekend in October, too.

    Giveaway: two tickets to Junior League Thrift Sale

    September 13th, 2009

    junior-league-thrift-saleThis week two SouthernMamas subscribers will each win a ticket to The 62nd annual Junior League of Savannah Thrift Sale. The sale is 10 AM-2 PM Fri., Oct. 2 and 10 AM-3 PM Sat. Oct 3 at the Savannah Civic Center.

    The giveaway is for tickets to the Fri. Oct. 2 sale.

    Check out the rules below to enter to win:

  • The Junior League does fantastic volunteer work. Tell us what type of volunteer work you currently do, have done in the past or WOULD like to do if you had the time. To enter to win, just click on comments below to share your volunteer tip. Entry period closes 9 pm Thurs. Sept. 17. Please tell us your name. We’ll pick a name at random and announce the winner Fri. Sept. 18.
  • You have to be a SouthernMamas subscriber to participate. Subscribing is free. Click here to subscribe. .
  • Admission to the sale $5 on Friday and $3 on Saturday. Items sold on Saturday are half-price. Parking is free.

    Can’t wait for the giveaway? Tickets can be purchased at the Civic Center box office or online here.

    Merchandise include appliances, children’s clothes and toys, holiday decorations, books, CDs, housewares, linens, exercise equipment and furniture. In addition, a limited number of tickets are being sold to the community for the Preview Party and Auction on Thurs. Oct. 1 at 5:30 pm. Guests have the opportunity to shop before the sale opens to the public. Cost is $35 and includes hors d’oeuvres. Items are sold at twice the price.

    Throughout the two day sale, the League raises thousands of dollars, all of which is returned to the community through various League projects. League sponsors are Publix Super Markets Charities, Levy Jewelers and SunTrust.

    Register for Savannah Celtic toddler soccer

    September 13th, 2009

    Registration is under way for celtic-soccer-logo.jpgSavannah Celtic‘s  Early Goals program which caters to players ages 2, 3 & 4. The session starts the week of Sept. 28 and runs through Nov. 2. Cost: $50

    The fee includes a 6 week program, practice t-shirt, end of the season finale with a medal and certificate.

    All session will be held at the Salvation Army fields on the corner of Washington and Bee Rd. (3000 Bee Rd). All practices are approx. 30-45 minutes.

    Savannah Celtic already offers programs for older children. But also has a this fun, action-packed toddler program for players ages 2-3 & 4. There are no games. Instead, coaches work on simple motor skills and ball familiarity.

    Next week, SouthernMamas will host a giveaway for free toddler soccer program. But don’t let that stop you from registering your child to play now. If you end up winning the SouthernMamas giveaway next week, Savannah Celtic will give you a refund and your tot will play for free.

    Be sure to visit SouthernMamas next week, Sept 21 to enter to win the free soccer. .

    Early Goal players will attend one practice session a week. Days to chose from:

    5 PM Mondays
    9 AM Tuesdays
    5:30 PM Tuesdays
    5:30 PM Thursdays

    To register your toddler for Early Goals, contact Michell Laing michell@savannahceltic.com, call 912.495.9996
    or click here.

    Michelle Duggar pregnant with 19th baby

    September 13th, 2009

    pregnant-womanMy Sunday newspaper column this week is about Michelle Duggar’s 19th baby and big families over all.

    Click here to read the column entitled “What’s wrong with just being a mom?” and share your take.

    Winner of 2-night lodge giveaway & state park membership

    September 13th, 2009

    georga-state-park-lodgesMelanie Connelly!

    Congratulations. Melanie wins a family vacation at one of five Georgia State Parks Lodges plus a year of fun recreational activities outdoors with a Friends of Georgia State Parks Family Membership. Her name was chosen at random to win a two-night stay at her choice of five state park lodges including: Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge, Dawsonville, Ga., Red Top Mountain State Park & Lodge in Cartersville, Ga., Unicoi State Park & Lodge in Helen, Ga., George T. Bagby State Park & Lodge in Fort Gaines, Ga. And Little Ocmulgee State Park & Lodge in McRae, Ga., as well as a Friends of Georgia State Parks Family Membership.

    Georgia’s State Parks just launched a new Lodge-ical rate with lodge rooms as low as $69 per night with breakfast and will be offering a free day in the parks on Saturday, Sept. 26. Click here for more info.

    Thanks to readers for sharing their wonderful memories of their grandparents to be eligible for this giveaway. Click on this post to read those memories in the comments section.

    Support families affected by Down syndrome

    September 13th, 2009

    ldsslogoThe Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society Buddy Walk Festival will be held Saturday, October 3rd in Forsyth Park.

    The fourth annual Buddy Walk is a one-mile walk in which anyone can participate without special training. Registration begins at 8 AM and costs $12 per person (which includes a t-shirt and a meal).

    The walk kicks off at 10:30 AM, and the festival for the whole family is from 11 AM to 2 PM, offering rides, food, games, music and more.

    For more information or if you would like to support families touched by down syndrome by registering to walk, please call John or Candy Bogardus at (912) 728-8505 or click here to register online.

    Children’s activities this weekend in Savannah, Bluffton

    September 9th, 2009

    la-leche-logoFamily picnic and carnival
    Noon-3 PM Sun. Sept. 13
    Hull Park in Ardsley Park
    La Leche League of Savannah is celebrating World Breastfeeding Week with a family picnic and carnival, free to the public. A parade will kick off the event. Kids’ activities and a silent auction with many wonderful items donated by many generous companies and individuals.
    912-658-9202 or e-mail WendyCohenLLL@aim.com for more info.

    Cloth Diapering 101 will be 10 AM-noon Sat., September 12 @ Just for Baby & More, 7701 Waters Ave.

    Cloth Diapering 101 class is free and open to the public. Register by calling 912-355-4455 or email welshcasey@gmail.com. First 20 registrants will receive a $15 gift card.

    Animal Care Day at Oatland Island Wildlife Center
    11 AM-2 PM Sat. Sept 12
    Find out about all of the hard work and dedication that goes into caring for the over 150 animals at Oatland Island on this special day. Oatland Island’s staff will lead presentations, activities and demonstrations and the Friends of Oatland will host a concessions stand.
    912.395.1212

    “Butterfly Gardening and Bee Keeping” at the Savannah-Ogeechee Canal Museum & Nature Center,
    10 AM-noon Sat. Sept. 12
    681 Ft. Argyle Rd. (Rt. 204)2.3 miles past I-95.
    Enjoy the Butterfly Garden and get practical tips on growing your own. Learn about what”s involved in bee keeping and harvesting the honey.
    Plants, honey and candles for sale.
    $2 for adults, $1 for children 4-12.
    912.748.8068
    info@savannahogeecheecanal.com

    New Exhibit Grand Opening at The Aquarium (the UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium) on Skidaway Island
    The theme: “Catching On To Sustainability” exhibit opens. Showcasing coastal Georgia marine species currently being studied for sustainable recreational fisheries and habitat.
    10 AM-5 PM Sat. Sept. 12
    General admission
    Sat. Sept. 12
    30 Ocean Science Circle.
    912.598.3474

    Bluffton area

    County-Wide Tailgate and Blues Concert at Jasper County Farmer’s Market, Ridgeland
    Sat. Sept 12.
    The event will air the University of South Carolina vs. Georgia game at 7:30 PM in the north end of the market and the Alabama Blues Brothers, a Blues Brothers impersonators duo, at the south end at 8:30pm for a live concert.
    Admission: $10 for adults and $5 for those 12 and younger.
    Barbeque and seafood vendors will be on site and drink wristbands for beer are $10 (21 and over).
    9935 South Jacob Smart Boulevard on Hwy 17 in South Ridgeland.
    The retail Farmer’s Market is open to the public every Friday from 1-6pm.
    The wholesale market is open Mondays at 3pm and Thursdays at 9am.
    843.726.8126

    Baby Yoga at The Sandbox, An Interactive Children’s Museum, Hilton Head Is.
    10:30-11:30 AM Sat. Sept. 12
    For babies 3 months of age through walking and their caregiver.
    Cost: $14/class or $60 for a 5 class card and includes admission to the museum so you can stay and play. (1 adult per child.)
    Advance reservations required: 843-842-7645

    Bluffton Branch Library Saturday Do-Drop-In Story Time Program
    10:30 AM Sat. Sept. 12
    This weekly program is designed as a family story time and will include reading, rocking, singing and shaking for about 45 minutes of fun.
    Registration NOT required.
    Residents and visitors are welcome
    120 Palmetto Way
    912.757.1519

    How not to be a football widow – from a self-proclaimed ‘Bulldog Idiot’

    September 8th, 2009

    nancyblogphotoWomen can be divided into two groups.

    Those who know exactly when to yell “Hold that line” and “Flag on the play!” during a football game. And those who are more concerned with sampling the best dips at tailgaters than deciphering the ref’s mystifying sign language.

    I’m ashamed to admit I am in the latter group. I’ve committed every football faux pas in the book, including cheering “Defense! Defense!” when my team’s quarterback was on the field.

    And if the start of football has you dreading another season of pretending to know the difference between a safety and a snapper, then you should check out Nancy Remler’s blog, “Learning the Dawgs: A Sport Idiot’s Quest to Become a Football Fan.”

    Nancy is a local Coastal Empire mom, wife, teacher, UGA graduate and hilarious writer.

    dawgs3When Nancy married in 1990, she knew her hubby was a football fan, but she underestimated the extent to his zest for the sport. For 17 years, she suffered football widowhood before realizing that she couldn’t fight the Dawgs.

    She’s resolved not only to watch the games, but to actually ENJOY them.

    But first she needs to learn the game. She’s documenting her progress on her blog, er, blawg, here.

    If you’re already a football expert and know quite well that split ends are about more than bad hair days, you should still check out Nancy’s blog and comment on her posts.

    If you’re like me and want to finally understand what the appeal of football is beyond plaid blankets and cute earth-tone sweaters, then definitely visit Nancy’s blog. The glossary of football terms alone is a must-read before attending your next game party.

    Click here to start talking like you know what the players are really talking about the huddle.

    Giveaway: 2-night getaway & year-of-fun @ Georgia State Parks & Lodges

    September 7th, 2009

    georga-state-park-lodgesSun. Sept. 13 is Grandparents Day.

    Share your favorite memory of Grandma and Grandpa in the comments section below this post and have a chance to win a family vacation at one of five Georgia State Parks Lodges plus a year of fun recreational activities outdoors with a Friends of Georgia State Parks Family Membership.
    One winner will be chosen to win a two-night stay at choice of five state park lodges including: Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge, Dawsonville, Ga., Red Top Mountain State Park & Lodge in Cartersville, Ga., Unicoi State Park & Lodge in Helen, Ga., George T. Bagby State Park & Lodge in Fort Gaines, Ga. And Little Ocmulgee State Park & Lodge in McRae, Ga., as well as a Friends of Georgia State Parks Family Membership.

    Amicalola Falls State Park Lodge

    Amicalola Falls State Park Lodge

    Friends of Georgia State Parks Annual Family Membership includes 2 Annual Park Passes, Historic Site Passes, 2 Free Rounds of Golf or 2 Camping Nights, (1) Adult/(1) Child SAM Shortline Tickets and special park discounts. Click here for more info on the membership.

    Check out the rules below to enter to win:

  • To enter to win, comment below about your favorite grandma or grandpa memory (either your grandparents or your children’s). Just click on comments below to share your tip and enter the contest. Entry period closes 9 pm Thurs. Sept. 10. Please tell us your name. We’ll pick a name at random and announce the winner Fri. Sept. 11
  • You have to be a SouthernMamas subscriber to participate. Subscribing is free. Click here to subscribe. .
  • Fall is here and Georgia State Parks & Lodges are challenging families to Get Out. Get Fit. Get Dirty as part of a state-wide campaign called Get Outdoors Georgia. Being active outdoors is a great way to stay or become healthy and fit. And, Georgia State Parks & Lodges offer a variety of comfortable hotel-style lodge rooms at affordable prices with their new “Lodge-ical” rates.

    Unicoi State Park Lodge

    Unicoi State Park Lodge

    Plus, there are tons of recreational offerings for the entire family, from hiking and biking trails, to canoeing, kayaking and golf, there is an activity to fit every lifestyle. And, best of all you can enjoy the tranquility of the great outdoors in style with a comfortable bed and hotel-style ammenities. There is even dining available at some lodges, if you so choose.

    For more information on Georgia State Parks & Lodges, click here.

    About Georgia State Park Lodges
    The Georgia Department of Natural Resources operates seven state lodge parks across Georgia with meeting and banquet facilities, which are perfect for family reunions, retreats, Birthday parties, weddings and weekend getaways. The Georgia State Park Lodges feature hotel-style, comfortable accommodations with affordable rates year-round. And, the Georgia State Parks offer such diverse recreational activities as watersports, golf, fishing, hiking and nature trails.

    Participating Georgia State Park Lodges include:

    • Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge, Dawsonville, Ga.: Only one and a half hours north of Atlanta, The Lodge at Amicalola Falls is a stunning 57-room hideaway, complete with a window-lined restaurant. Whether you want to visit the famous 729-foot cascading falls, go trout fishing or hike the park’s 12 miles of trails through towering forests, there is plenty to discover at Amicalola Falls. Amicalola Falls is one of Georgia’s most popular state parks.
    • Red Top Mountain State Park & Lodge in Cartersville, Ga.: Just north of Atlanta are the sandy beaches of Lake Allatoona and the pine-scented nature trails of Red Top Mountain. At the Lodge at Red Top Mountain, you can choose one of the campsites, a secluded cottage with lakeshore views or a peaceful lodge room. Guests can enjoy 12 miles of hiking trails and water sport galore on Lake Alatoona Including boating, fishing, skiing and swimming. There’s also a miniature golf course.
    • Unicoi State Park & Lodge in Helen, Ga.: In the midst of the Chattahoochee National Forest, located just two miles from the Alpine Village of Helen, the Lodge at Unicoi State Park is a beautiful setting for all of your family’s needs. Guests can enjoy the park’s 12 miles of nature and hiking trails, lake and trout stream fishing, four lighted tennis courts, softball and volleyball area, picnic facilities, world class mountain bike trail and year-round schedule of activities.
    • George T. Bagby State Park & Lodge, Fort Gaines, Ga.: Head to Southwest Georgia for the pristine forests, championship golf and scenic dining. The Lodge at George T. Bagby is the perfect retreat, whether you choose a room at the lodge or a cottage in the woods. Guests can enjoy plenty of activities on beautiful Lake Walter George, from boat rentals and full-service marina to swimming, fishing, beach volleyball and tennis.
    • Little Ocmulgee State Park & Lodge in McRae, Ga.: You can spend your days enjoying golf, tennis, hiking, swimming, boating or fishing at Ocmulgee’s state park and 265-acre lake. At the Lodge at Little Ocmulgee in south central Georgia, you camp out among the trees, choose a cottage or stay at the 60-room lodge. The lodge overlooks the park’s Wallace Adams Golf Course. Located near McRae, the 1,265 acres of high sandhills and pine forests at this middle Georgia park provide a beautiful setting for family getaways.

    “Disney on Ice” winner and sweet bedtime rituals

    September 3rd, 2009

    nemo-hi-resDebbie Barrett wins a family four-pack of tickets to Disney On Ice presents Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo, which will be playing at Savannah Civic Center November 5-8!

    (The contest required readers to share tips to make children’s bedtimes sweet and successful. If y’all haven’t read the wonderful comments from our readers regarding children’s bedtime rituals, please do so by clicking here then click on comments below the post. The bedtime tips are priceless. What great parents y’all are!)

    Join the ocean-sized adventure of the curious clownfish Nemo, his overprotective father Marlin and their absent-minded yet lovable pal Dory as Disney On Ice immerses you in a vibrant aquatic world in Disney On Ice presents Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo.

    Follow alongside Marlin and Dory on a daring search of the big blue. Ride the current with “super-dude” turtle Crush and make waves with Nemo’s new friends – the Tank Gang – as they plot an escape from the dentist’s aquarium in this whale of a tale full of laughter and fun!

    Tickets are on sale now and are available @ etix.com OR 1-800-351-7469

    Attention new and expectant moms: cloth diapering 101 class

    September 2nd, 2009

    just-for-baby-new-ad-address1SouthernMamas reader Elizabeth St. Lawrence will offer an informative class to parents, grandparents and parents-to be on the basics of cloth diapering.

    Elizabeth was featured in a SouthernMamas Q&A on cloth diapering here. Cloth Diapering 101 will be 10 AM-noon Sat., September 12 @ Just for Baby & More, 7701 Waters Ave.

    Cloth Diapering 101 class is free and open to the public. Please register by calling 912-355-4455 or email welshcasey@gmail.com.

    First 20 registrants will receive a $15 gift card.

    Also, in honor of Grandparent’s Day, Sept. 13, grandparents can bring in their grandchild’s picture and receive a choice gift card from the “giving tree”.

    Remember every Wednesday, grandparents receive a 15 percent discount on gift and clothing purchase.