Costume Ideas

I know everyone has a hard time coming up with somewhat of an original thought when it comes to Halloween costumes so I thought I would post the links to some of my favorite ones.  Maybe you can come up with an idea...let me know what are your favorites.

Lego
    

For the Pregnant one

 

 Lollipop Guild

 Bun in the Oven

Last Minute Costumes

These are some of the best Halloween sites.  Check them out!


http://familyfun.go.com/halloween/halloween-kids-costumes/funny-costumes/

http://crafts.kaboose.com/costumes/homemade-halloween.html

http://www.rd.com/slideshows/20-homemade-halloween-costumes/11/

Couples Costumes

 Group Costumes

Martha Stewart Halloween

Star Wars Baby Shower

Two of my best friends are having a baby so I decided to have a Star Wars themed baby shower, because I wanted it to be a coed shower.  I wanted the guys to feel as though it was not a typical shower.  I do not know very much about Star Wars so I used Google to help motivate my ideas.  I hope you enjoy the ideas I came up with, and maybe even find something helpful for a party you may want to throw.

 FOOD

I named all the food after Star Wars characters

I googled a list of Star Wars characters and then picked names that sounded good with my food item.
Here is a list of my food names:
 Anakin-Pasto Tray - Antipasto tray
Obi-Wan Fruit Tray - Fruit Tray
Nausage Balls - Sausage Balls (Nausage is a food that they ate in Star Wars....I think)
Darth Veggie Traya - Veggie tray
Shaak Tea - tea
Yoda Soda - limeage, sprite, and lime sherbert....I did not come up with this name.
Boba Fett Bean Dip - Seven Layer Bean dip (recipe below)
Ackbar Artichoke Dip - Spinach and Artichoke dip

 Seven Layer Bean Dip

1 large can refried beans                                                                      
1-16oz Sour cream
1-16oz guacamole dip (or fresh)
1- 12oz Salsa
Shredded lettuce (optional)
12 oz shredded cheese
Layer all ingredients as listed in a 9x13 glass dish, 
Jalapeno peppers
tomatoes
black olives
Apply the last three ingredients in the design of Boba Fett.  (you can also do Yoda's face)



ALL THE EXTRAS

 I made a baby journal for people to write parenting advice in, Yoda style.  I printed pictures from the internet and used Mod Podge to seal them to the composition book.  I also used the book to keep the record of the gifts that were given. 

 I had some generic powder I wanted to add the theme of star wars to for the gift basket I made...so I printed, "Use the Force" and, "Jedi Powder"  and used Mod Podge (a type of craft glue) to cover it up.

 This is another item I threw in the basket.  Again, I printed it from the internet, and used Mod Podge and adhered it to the mug.  The mug will only be used for decoration.

 I crocheted this Princess Leia hat.  Stay tuned and I will try to come up with a crochet pattern for this.  I could not find a free one anywhere online. 

 I used Baby Picture Maker to create an image of what my friends baby would look like.  I decorated the frame using painted puzzle pieces and hot glue.  The baby's room decor is black and white.

 This is the basket I made for the parents to be. 

I also made a video/slideshow which started like the beginning crawl of the original Star Wars movie....
These words scrolled across the screen  while the Star Wars theme played in the background.


Right now, in a uterus not so far away... (then the Star Wars logo)
A fetus found nutrition from its mother.
Rebel adults, insistant upon being parents,
have won their first victory against
the evil Unfertility Empire

During the pregnancy,
the fetus managed to steal nutrition
and energy from its host,
Caty, a strong female
with enough power to destroy
an entire planet.

 Princess Chapman races home
in her uterus,
in hopes to push all boundaries set by the evil 
and one day restore her own freedom

Then I included random pictures of the parents to be as they have grown up.


CAKE

 This cake is very simple.  I made two sheet cakes, and put them side by side, and then froze the cake.  After the cake was frozen, take it out and cut into the shape of a baby shirt.  The logo on the front is printed from the internet and I used contact paper to cover it, you can also use plastic wrap.  Then pipe the icing around the sides, neck, sleeves, and bottom to complete the look of a onesie. 

FLOWERS

 Luckily I threw this party around Halloween.  It is hard to tell in this picture but the flowers are arranged in Darth Vader trick or treat bucket.  The flowers were arranged by Murfreesboro Flower Shoppe

Congrats Caty and KC....you will be good parents.

What to do in Murfreesboro during October

I haven't even touched on the events going on in October...stay tuned and I will add them as I find them. 

Thursday October 6,  2011  

Creation Station 

All ages can make Shrinky Dink jewelry and key chains. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 3 p.m.; $6; 890-2300 or discoverycenteronline.org.03:00pm 

Nature Nuts

All ages can explore constellations. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 4 p.m.; $6; 890-2300 or discoverycenteronline.org.04:00pm

FREE Live on the Green
Brett Dennen, Marie Hines, Rayland Baxter, and Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors

All ages can enjoy live music sponsored by Lightening 100.  Public Square Park near City Hall (Courthouse) Downtown Nashville.  Parking is only $3 in the parking garage located directly under Public Square Park.  Food and beverages will be available for purchase each night, as well as VIP Tickets - which include beverages, food and exclusive viewing areas. 5:30-10:30 http://www.liveonthegreen.net/schedule

Friday October 7, 2011

FREE Family Movie Night

All ages can discover the secrets that the Museum of Natural History holds during a movie screening. Cornerstone United Methodist Church, 349 Chaney Road, Smyrna; 7 p.m.; cornerstonetn.org.

07:00pm

Saturday October 8, 2011 

FREE Nolensville Women’s Show
Several local businesses will showcase their goods and services, a kids’ area includes inflatables and games, and proceeds from the silent auction benefit the Susan G. Koman Foundation. Tusculum Hills Baptist Church, 7198 Nolensville Road, Nolensville; 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.; facebook.com/nolensvillewomensshow.09:00am - 03:00pm

FREE Biscuits & Bluegrass Fall Festival
Enjoy an array of arts and crafts demonstrations, artists booths, live music, free biscuit samples and more. Loveless Café, 8400 Hwy. 100, Nashville; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; 646-9700 or lovelesscafe.com.10:00am - 04:00pm

FREE Sports Cards and Collectibles Show
All ages can buy and sell the latest and all-time favorites in all types of sports cards.  RiverGate Mall, 1000 RiverGate Pkwy., Goodlettsville; Fri - Sat 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun 12 - 6 p.m.; 478-279-2817.10:00am - 09:00pm

FREE Family Fall Festival
This community event features inflatables, face painting, arts and crafts, games, prizes, food, horse and train rides, and more. Central Pike Church of Church, 4240 Central Pike, Hermitage; 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.; 883-2696 or centralpikecofc.org.11:00am - 03:00pm


FREE Family Program: Introduction to Thumbpick Guitar
Ages 6 - 18 can learn to play guitar like Chet Atkins and Merle Travis through a hands-on workshop covering the basics of thumbpick and fingerstyle guitar (guitars provided). Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 1 p.m.; 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.01:00pm

Meet Clifford
All ages can meet Clifford the Big Red Dog. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; Sat 2:30 and 3:30 p.m., Sun 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m.; $6; 890-2300 or discoverycenteronline.org.02:30pm - 03:30pm

Sunday, October 09, 2011

FREE Sports Cards and Collectibles Show 
All ages can buy and sell the latest and all-time favorites in all types of sports cards. RiverGate Mall, 1000 RiverGate Pkwy., Goodlettsville; Fri - Sat 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun 12 - 6 p.m.; 478-279-2817.12:00pm - 06:00pm

Monday, October 10, 2011

Parents & Tots
Preschoolers and their parents can experience autumn in the wetlands. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 9 a.m.; $6; 890-2300 or discoverycenteronline.org.09:00am

Snack Attack!
All ages can make chocolate hearts. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 3:30 p.m.; $6; 890-2300 or discoverycenteronline.org.03:30pm

Tuesday October 11, 2011


FREE Concert in the Courtyard
Enjoy music by Grammy-winning classical cellist Sara Sant’Ambrogio. Nashville Public Library’s courtyard, 615 Church St., Nashville; 11:45 a.m. - 1 p.m.; 862-5800 or library.nashville.org.11:45am - 01:00pm


FREE Movies in the Library
All ages can watch a screening of Toy Story 3. Gallatin Public Library, 123 E. Main St., Gallatin; 2 p.m.; 452-1722 or gallatinlibrary.org.02:00pm


Animal Antics
All ages can meet the gecko. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 3:30 p.m.; $6; 890-2300 or discoverycenteronline.org.03:30pm

Wednesday, October 12, 2011


FREE 4-H with Mr. Shirley
Ages 8 - 12 can participate in programs based on science, engineering and technology. Patterson Park Community Center, 521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro; 4 - 5 p.m.; 893-7439 or murfreesborotn.gov/parks.04:00pm - 05:00pm

Thursday October 13

69th Annual Al Menah Shrine Circus
All ages can enjoy circus fun, including a pre-party one hour prior to the show that includes face painting, elephant rides (additional charge) and other activities. Municipal Auditorium, 417 Fourth Ave. N., Nashville; Thu 7 p.m., Fri 7:30 p.m., Sat 11 a.m., 3 and 7:30 p.m., Sun 2 and 6 p.m.; $23 reserved floor (adults and children, general admission seats are $17 adults, $12 ages 2 - 12, free ages 1 and younger; 226-7766 or 2011circus.com.07:00pm

Friday, October 14, 2011 


30th Annual Fall Festival and Tennessee State Pow Wow
All ages can have fun with a weekend of Native-American activities including arts and crafts, live music and dancing, food and more. Long Hunter State Park, 2910 Hobson Pike, Hermitage; Fri - Sun 9 a.m.; $6 adults, $3 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 and younger; 232-9179 or naiatn.org/powwow. 09:00am


FREE Southern Festival of Books
Enjoy three days of the written word featuring author presentations, readings, panel discussions and book signings, including children’s and young adult authors. War Memorial Plaza, Charlotte Avenue at Seventh Avenue North, Nashville; Fri 12 - 6 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun 12 - 5 p.m.; 770-0006 or humanitiestennessee.org/festival.12:00pm - 06:00pm

Saturday 15, 2011

FREE 24th Annual Oktoberfest
All ages can get into the fall spirit with crafts, food, art, live entertainment, games and more. Wilson Bank & Trust, 623 W. Main St., Lebanon; Sat 9 a.m.- 4 p.m., Sun 12 - 4:30 p.m.; 443-6522 or wilsonbank.com.09:00am - 04:00pm

FREE Bird Club
All ages can learn about birds and their behavior. Cason Trailhead, 1100 Cason Trail Murfreesboro; 9 a.m.; 217-3017 or njordon@murfreesborotn.gov. 09:00am


FREE Middle Tennessee Christian School’s Fall Festival
All ages can enjoy carnival games, inflatables, a petting zoo, vendor and theme booths with crafts, fall items, baked goods, a silent auction, pumpkin patch, hayrides and more. Middle Tennessee Christian School, 100 E. MTCS Road, Murfreesboro; 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.; admission is free, but tickets are required for certain activities; 893-0601 ormtcscourgars.org/patrons.htm.09:00am - 09:00pm


FREE Southern Festival of Books
Enjoy three days of the written word featuring author presentations, readings, panel discussions and book signings, including children’s and young adult authors. War Memorial Plaza, Charlotte Avenue at Seventh Avenue North, Nashville; Fri 12 - 6 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun 12 - 5 p.m.; 770-0006 or humanitiestennessee.org/festival.09:00am - 06:00pm


FREE Healthy You, Healthy Me!
All ages can learn how to get fit, enjoy healthy snacks, jump in the bounce house participate in fitness demonstrations and more. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; 890-2300 or discoverycenteronline.org.10:00am - 04:00pm


FREE Mars Petcare Adoption Fair
More than 20 local animal shelters will be on hand along with live music, children’s activities, a balloon artist, dog kissing booth, paw painting and more. Mars Petcare, 315 Cool Springs Blvd., Franklin; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; 373-7774 or mars.com.10:00am - 03:00pm


Saturday AM: Bird Buffet 
Families can make a craft to attract birds. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; free with gate admission ($12 adults, $5 ages 6 - 17, free ages 5 and younger); 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.10:00am - 12:00pm


FREE Bringing Stories to Life 
The Junior Service League of Gallatin presents this storytime event for ages 3 - 8 that explores the importance of being healthy and fit through a story reading, a physical activity and healthy snack. Gallatin Public Library, 123 E. Main St., Gallatin; 10:30 a.m.; 452-1722
10:30am

Sunday, October 16, 2011
30th Annual Fall Festival and Tennessee State Pow Wow 
All ages can have fun with a weekend of Native-American activities including arts and crafts, live music and dancing, food and more. Long Hunter State Park, 2910 Hobson Pike, Hermitage; Fri - Sun 9 a.m.; $6 adults, $3 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 and younger; 232-9179 or naiatn.org/powwow. 09:00am


FREE 24th Annual Oktoberfest
All ages can get into the fall spirit with crafts, food, art, live entertainment, games and more. Wilson Bank & Trust, 623 W. Main St., Lebanon; Sat 9 a.m.- 4 p.m., Sun 12 - 4:30 p.m.; 443-6522 or wilsonbank.com.12:00pm - 04:30pm

FREE Southern Festival of Books
Enjoy three days of the written word featuring author presentations, readings, panel discussions and book signings, including children’s and young adult authors. War Memorial Plaza, Charlotte Avenue at Seventh Avenue North, Nashville; Fri 12 - 6 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun 12 - 5 p.m.; 770-0006 or humanitiestennessee.org/festival.12:00pm - 05:00pm

FREE Egypt Family Day
All ages can participate in special art-making activities and enjoy performances (including Egyptian folktales) celebrating ancient and contemporary Egyptian culture. Frist Center for the Visual Arts, 919 Broadway, Nashville; 1 - 5:30 p.m.; 244-3340 or fristcenter.org.01:00pm - 05:30pm

69th Annual Al Menah Shrine Circus
All ages can enjoy circus fun, including a pre-party one hour prior to the show that includes face painting, elephant rides (additional charge) and other activities. Municipal Auditorium, 417 Fourth Ave. N., Nashville; Thu 7 p.m., Fri 7:30 p.m., Sat 11 a.m., 3 and 7:30 p.m., Sun 2 and 6 p.m.; $23 reserved floor (adults and children, general admission seats are $17 adults, $12 ages 2 - 12, free ages 1 and younger; 226-7766 or 2011circus.com 02:00pm

Sunday Series of Fun
Families can make fall and Halloween decorations. Patterson Park Community Center, 521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro; 2 - 4 p.m.; admission is a bag of non-perishable food items per family; 893-2141.02:00pm - 04:00pm

Monday, October 17, 2011


Parents & Tots
Preschoolers and their parents can learn about creepy, crawly things. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 9 a.m.; $6; 890-2300 or discoverycenteronline.org.09:00am


Snack Attack! 
All ages can enjoy edible creations in the kitchen. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 3:30 p.m.; $6; 890-2300 or discoverycenteronline.org.03:30pm


Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Parents & Tots
Preschoolers and their parents can learn about creepy, crawly things. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 9 a.m.; $6; 890-2300 or discoverycenteronline.org.09:00am

Tuesdays for Tots: Leafy Landscape
Preschoolers and their parents view the trees on the grounds and then create a leafy work of art. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; free with gate admission ($12 adults, free ages 5 and younger); 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.10:00am - 12:00pm

Animal Antics
All ages can meet Bill, the ball python. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 3:30 p.m.; $6; 890-2300 or discoverycenteronline.org.03:30pm

Thursday, October 20, 2011


Creation Station
All ages can make egg carton jack-o-lanterns. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 3 p.m.; $6; 890-2300 or discoverycenteronline.org.03:00pm

Nature Nuts
All ages can learn about the planets. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 4 p.m.; $6; 890-2300 or discoverycenteronline.org.04:00pm

Friday, October 21, 2011 
 
Southern Living Showcase Home Tour
The Southern Living home, in which Nashville’s top designers showcase the latest ideas in home design, green innovation and new building products. Southern Living Showcase Home, 913 Dorset Drive, Brentwood; 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. (tours continue Thu - Sun through Nov. 6); $10 in advance, $14 at the gate, free ages 11 and younger; 309-8200 or castlehomes.com.11:00am - 07:00pm


FREE Family Harvest Days
The whole family can enjoy inflatables, hayrides, food, carnival games, a magic show and more. Rutherford County Baptist Church, 5742 Seminary Road, Smyrna; Fri 4 - 7:30 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.; 355-9710 or rcbaptistchurch.org.04:00pm - 07:30pm

Wetland Walk
All ages can join a naturalist for a guided tour of Murfree Spring wetland. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 4 p.m.; $6; 890-2300 or discoverycenteronline.org.04:00pm


Fall Harvest Hayride
All ages can enjoy live music, hayrides, campfire fun, children’s activities and more. General Bragg Trailhead, 111 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro; 5 - 8 p.m.; $2 ages 3 and older; 893-2141.05:00pm - 08:00pm  

Spooky Splash
Ages 7 - 13 can swim, do crafts, eat pizza, find a pudding surprise and make tie-dye T-shirts (bring your own white shirt). Patterson Park Pool, 521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro; 6 - 10 p.m.; $5 in advance, $7 day of event; 893-7439.06:00pm - 10:00pm

FREE Third Friday Outdoor Concert
Enjoy live music by local bands. Cannonsburgh Village, 312 S. Front St., Murfreesboro; 7 - 9:30 p.m.; 890-0355.07:00pm - 09:30pm

Saturday, October 22, 2011

In the Artist’s Studio
All ages can join artist Lisa Butler for a hands-on art project. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 2 - 4 p.m.; $6; 890-2300.02:00am - 04:00pm discoverycenteronline.org

FREE Family Day 
The entire family can enjoy DJ entertainment, games, hayrides, fishing, mini train rides, farm animals and more. The Park at Harlinsdale Farm, 239 Franklin Road, Franklin; 550-6947 or franklintn.gov.08:00am - 05:00pm


FREE 14th Annual Buddy Walk 
All ages can participate in a half-mile walk to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome; other activities include music, games and more. Funds raised go to the local community by offering support, information and education to families in Middle Tennessee. Centennial Park, 2500 West End Ave., Nashville; 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.; 386-9002 or dsamt.org.09:00am - 12:00pm

FREE Family Harvest Days
The whole family can enjoy inflatables, hayrides, food, carnival games, a magic show and more. Rutherford County Baptist Church, 5742 Seminary Road, Smyrna; Fri 4 - 7:30 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.; 355-9710 or rcbaptistchurch.org.10:00am - 06:30pm


FREE Town Center Saturday
Visit 50 vendors with everything from fresh produce to jewelry along with local artists, live music, children’s activities and more in a city market atmosphere. Roundabout in the Town Center area of Brentwood; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; towncentersaturdays.org.10:00am - 03:00pm


PCA Fall Festival 
 All ages can enjoy pumpkin decorating, pie eating, pumpkin seed spitting contests, karaoke, pony rides, a mechanical bull, euro bungee, petting zoo and more. Providence Christian Academy, 410 DeJarnette Lane, Murfreesboro; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; admission is free for adults, teens and ages 1 and younger; children 2 - 8 are $20 ($50 per family), which includes most activities; 904-0902 or providencechristian.com.10:00am - 02:00pm  


Saturday AM: Wild West Weekend Kids Corral 
Young cowpokes can enjoy western-inspired art and craft projects and participate in challenges like calf roping and stick horse barrel racing. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; free with gate admission ($12 adults, $5 ages 6 - 17, free ages 5 and younger); 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.10:00am - 02:00pm  


Wild West Weekend
A variety of activities include an expanded Saturday AM program (see separate listing above), guided tours, a “Buffalo Bill and his Wild West” interactive storytime and two public lectures about Western art on Saturday. On Sunday, enjoy live music and guided tours of the new exhibit, Visions of the America West: Masterworks from the Buffalo Bill Historical Center. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; Saturday at 10 a.m. with the last program beginning at 2 p.m.; Sunday 1 - 3 p.m.; $12 adults, $5 ages 6 - 17, free ages 5 and younger; 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.10:00am - 03:00pm

FREE Lego Playtime 
Ages 3 and older can have fun making Lego creations. Gallatin Public Library, 123 E. Main St., Gallatin; 10:30 a.m.; 452-1722 or gallatinlibrary.org.10:30am

Fiddlers Grove Fall Festival
Celebrate all-things autumn with costume contests, pumpkin-carving activities, a punkin’ chunkin’ contest, a quilt show, antique appraisals and more. James E. Ward Ag Center, 945 E. Baddour Pkwy., Lebanon; 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; call for admission; 443-2626 or fiddlersgrove.org.11:00am - 04:00pm

FREE Fall Fashion Extravaganza 
All ages can see what’s new and trendy this fall. RiverGate Mall, 1000 RiverGate Pkwy., Goodlettsville; 2 p.m.; 859-3456.02:00pm


FREE Fall Festival
All ages can celebrate the season with games, a costume contest, trunk-or-treating, silent auction and a chili cook-off. Cornerstone United Methodist Church, 349 Chaney Road, Smyrna; 4 - 6:30 p.m.; 220-0042 or cornerstonetn.org.04:00pm - 06:30pm

Thursday, October 27, 2011

The Great Pumpkin Festival
All ages can enjoy the magic of science (visitors are asked to bring a canned food item for the Rutherford County Emergency Food Bank). Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 4 - 7 p.m.; $3; 890-2300 or discoverycenteronline.org.04:00pm - 07:00pm



Friday, October 28, 2011 


Halloween Carnival
All ages can participate in a costume contest, play a variety of carnival-style games, enjoy face painting and more. Barfield Crescent Park, 697 Barfield Crescent Road, Murfreesboro; Fri - Sat 5 - 9 p.m.; activities are 50 cents each; 890-5333.05:00pm - 09:00pm


Preschool Pumpkin Patch
Ages 2 - 5 can wear costumes and enjoy an evening of games, activities, a cakewalk, trick-or-treating and more. Patterson Gym, 521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro; 5 - 7 p.m.; $3; 893-7439.05:00pm - 07:00pm

Judgement House
This dramatic walk-through presentation explores the truth of people's choices and their consequences both in this life and the next.
Jubilee Worship Center
5254 New Hwy. 31 E., Westmoreland
6 - 10 p.m. Free admission 644-3396 or judgementhouse.org 06:00pm - 10:00pm

Saturday, October 29, 2011

FREE Cool Springs Galleria Play Area Grand Opening
Ages 12 and younger can meet Dreamworks characters and enjoy KidsDance, balloon animals and more during the opening of the new play area. Cool Springs Galleria, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin; 771-2050, ext. 250, or coolspringsgalleria.com.10:00am - 09:00pm


FREE Fiber in the Boro
All ages can celebrate all the fiber arts — knitting, weaving, spinning, crochet, quilting and more — through demonstrations, vendors and classes (classes require advance registration). Lane Agripark, 315 John R. Rice Blvd., Murfreesboro; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; 217-4966 or fiberintheboro.com.10:00am - 05:00pm


El Dia de los Muertos
Experience the traditions of Mexico’s holiday with music and dance, art activities, food, altar displays, a Mexican marketplace and more. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $12 adults, $5 ages 6 - 17, free ages 5 and younger; 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.11:00am - 05:00pm

Family Day
Dunkin’ Donuts, Baskin Robbins and Nashville Parent sponsor this day of fun that includes musical performances, inflatables, a rock climbing wall, skee ball and other carnival games, face painting, balloon artists, trick-or-treat booths, food and more. Proceeds benefit the T.J. Martell Foundation, dedicated to leukemia, cancer and AIDS research. Belmont University’s Curb Event Center, 2002 Belmont Blvd., Nashville; 1 - 4 p.m.; $15 ages 3 and older (family of four pass for two adults, two children is $50); 256-2002 or nashvillefamilyday.com.01:00pm - 04:00pm


FREE Book Club
Reading kids of all ages can participate in age-appropriate group readings and discussions of spooky-themed titles. Belle Meade Plantation, 5025 Harding Pike, Nashville; 3 p.m.; 356-0501, ext. 48 or bellemeadeplantation.com.03:00pm


FREE Halloween at The Avenue
All ages can trick-or-treat from 4 - 6 p.m. and then watch an outdoor screening of Gnomeo and Juliet at 6:30 p.m. The Avenue Murfreesboro, 2615 Medical Center Pkwy.; 893-4207 or shoptheavenue.com/Murfreesboro.04:00pm

 * We attended this last year, and it was not much fun.  It was very crowded and we stood in a line all the way around the avenue, and when the kids were done trick or treating they had like maybe 50 pieces of candy, and it was all hard candy and suckers, and coupons and stickers.  We arrived about an hour after it started and half of the stores were already out of candy.  I would not suggest this.

FREE RiverGate Mall Play Area Grand Opening
 Ages 12 and younger can meet their favorite Dreamworks characters and enjoy KidsDance, balloon animals and more during the opening of the new play area. RiverGate Mall, 1000 RiverGate Pkwy., Goodlettsville; 4 - 6 p.m.; 859-3456 or rivergate-mall.com. 04:00pm - 06:00pm


Halloween Carnival 
All ages can participate in a costume contest, play a variety of carnival-style games, enjoy face painting and more. Barfield Crescent Park, 697 Barfield Crescent Road, Murfreesboro; Fri - Sat 5 - 9 p.m.; activities are 50 cents each; 890-5333.05:00pm - 09:00pm

Sunday, October 30, 2011

FREE Fall Family Funfest
All ages can enjoy an afternoon of fun with inflatables, character appearances and a performance by The Nick Carver Band. The first 300 kids can decorate pumpkins and play games. Stones River Mall, 1720 Old Fort Pkwy., Murfreesboro; 2 - 5 p.m.; 896-4486 or stonesrivermall.com.02:00pm - 05:00pm



Here are some links to local venues Calendar of Events
Stones River Mall
Rivergate Mall
Live on the Green
Bell Meade Plantation
The Avenue (Murfreesboro)
Upcoming Events for the Current Day
More upcoming events
Cheekwood
Cool Springs Galleria
Discovery Center at Murfree Springs
Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation
Barnes and Noble

Cheap and Easy Crafts to Decorate Your Kids Room

If you are like me and have a hard time decorating your kids room check out some of these ideas that you can do fast and cheap to personalize your kids room.

Kaleb's Room (my son)

 Instead of coming up with a theme and trying to match everything perfectly I decided to go with colors instead.
Bumper Pads - Green gingham (consignment sale for $10)
Mobile - Jungle animals (Kmart $25)
Dressers - hand me downs from our parents (Spray painted - I removed the hardware and sprayed the  drawers a different color than the base, and then the hardware the color of the base.  I think I used  3 cans of green and 2 of white for two dressers)
Art - I had some square canvas laying around and I just painted them solid colors, you can also cover canvas with fabric or scrapbook paper for a design.

Lamp - I purchased a plain lamp from Ross for about $5 and painted it orange, and then hot glued buttons onto the lamp shade.

 Shelves - Walmart ($25) and colored canvas bins ( Kmart $3)  The bins add some more colored squares to the room.

 Name - You can find wooden letters just about anywhere.  I am not sure where these came from, because someone bought them for me.  Some places to try are Walmart, Hobby Lobby, Michaels, and Joanns.  I love them because you can decorate them however you want.  Some ideas: use Mod Podge and scrapbook paper, or paint them. 

Zayne's Room

 Chore Chart- If your kids are anything like mine, they work best with a game plan.  This is really simple and mine isn't all that great because it needed to be done quickly.  It is a frame from the thrift store, scrapbook paper, a dry erase marker and a magnetic strip.  I wrote on the scrapbook paper the square and the chore, and framed it, and then applied a magnet on the back of the marker and on the frame.  Decorate the frame using anything such as puzzle pieces, glitter, decoupage items, paint, buttons, or whatever fits your child's room decor.

 Light Switch Plate -  I love this because it is just easy added art.  It would look a lot better if my light switch plate was white, but I used what I had.  Use Mod Podge and cover the light switch plate with scrapbook paper, and cutting out holes, using a craft knife works the best.

 Name - Again she has her name in her room.  I spent some time hand painting these several years ago.  So decoupage something on them and make it fast.  These letters are close to a foot in height.  They came from Hobby Lobby and I think we paid $1.50-2 a letter...on sale of course.  Look for those sales though.

 Dresser - This dresser was mine when I was a kid...so it has been around.  My mom painted it for me, and I had stickers all over it and it was rough.  It still is, but looks much better in her room.  We painted the base pink and the drawers purple and the hardware came from Hobby Lobby (again, on Sale)  which as you can tell we still need 3 more.  The one thing about buying from Hobby Lobby is they might not always have the amount you need, and they may not ever get them.  So Good Luck!

 Are you liking all the pinks and purples yet?
Art - This piece is just a Dollar Tree puzzle, I worked and glued, and then framed.  The frame came from a thrift store and then I painted the frame.  You can do this with any kind of puzzle.

 Zayne painted this, we bought the art unpainted at the Dollar Tree and I squirted the colors onto a plate and she painted it.  You can also find unpainted items at Michaels and Hobby Lobby.

Curtain - I love this.  I purchased a curtain rod...any cheap one will do, and then several colors of ribbon...get it on sale...and cut strips the length you want them, and fold over the top about 1 1/2 inch and sew it then slide them on the curtain rod.  Super cute....and girly.

Just Some More Ideas

 My niece Madison, (9 year old) was having a birthday and her parents were remodeling her room.  She was a princess kind of girl, but now she wants animals.  Her walls are purple and the trim is sort of a lime green.  This was the art that I made for her.
Art - Top - Thrift store frame painted (All Things Possible...Bargain Center is the best for cheap frames), scrapbook paper (Hobby Lobby and Michaels have the best selection) and purple buttons.  I used craft glue to put the buttons on. 

Bottom - I used paw print scrapbook paper and used paint to add the colored ones, I tried a stencil...but stencils and I do not get along, so I free handed the paws.  I then added ribbon with hot glue to the top and bottom to add something to the frame (also a 0.99 frame from the thrift store).

 Art - This is Zayne's art they framed at school, but wouldn't be hard to do at home.  They took her picture and matted it to a piece of large construction paper, but you could use poster board, then laminate it.  If you are like me and don't have access or money to laminate it, use clear contact paper (usually can be found at Walmart in the craft section or with the shelf liners in the kitchen area)

 Storage - Use everyday containers and decorate them using scrapbook paper or paint.  This is a metal tin I purchased at a thrift store for $0.50 and I use it in my craft room for buttons, obviously.

Art Display - As you can tell we are big with our artistic abilities, and we encourage the kids to be artistic.  So instead of having 500 pictures on my fridge we display them in the play room.  We nailed two pieces of clothesline down the wall and use clothespins to hold them.  Make is prettier and use colored clothespins, or decorate your own using Mod Podge and scrapbook paper...or glue thing to them like puzzle pieces, flowers, or buttons. 

Consignment.....What a great way to save and make money!

In case you have never hit up one of these, THEY ARE AMAZING!!!!

At these sales you can find anything kids related from strollers and cribs to video games.  Everything is priced by the seller.  So it is like one giant children yard sale.  You can also sell your own items.

www.kidsconsignmentsales.com is a great place to stay active on where the current sales are.  

Here are the ones coming up:

Consign & Co.

809 Park Ave

Murfreesboro, TN

Nov 3-4 9am-7pm

Nov 5 (1/2 price sale) 8am-2pm

Everyday Consigning

Once Upon a Child

1734 W. Northfield, 

Murfreesboro, TN 37129

615-907-0500

Business Hours:

 M-F 9:30-7

Sat 9:30-6

Sun 1-5

The Rocking Horse

402 W Northfield Blvd # A

Murfreesboro, TN
 

(615) 867-0339

Business Hours:

Mon-Fri 9:30am - 6pm

Sat 9:30-5pm

Sun - Closed

Plato's Closet

429 N. Thompson Ln 

Murfreesboro, TN

 

615-896-8511

Business Hours:

M-Thur 10-8pm

Fri & Sat 10-9pm

Sun 11-8pm

The Willow Tree Children's Shoppe

 133 James Luscinski Dr
Murfreesboro, TN
Next to Wal-Mart on Old Fort Pkwy
 

p 615-396-8518

Business Hours:

 M T TH F – 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Kids Eat Free...or Cheap

Where can you get a FREE kids meal in Murfreesboro, TN?

Monday - Southwest Moes, Buffalo Wild Wings ($0.99 with drink), Zaxbys

Tuesday - Applebees, Fazolis ($0.99 kids meal from 5-8pm) Chic Fil A, Blue Coast Burrito (5-9pm 1.99)

Wednesday - Sonic (1.99 Wacky Pack) Your Burger


Thursday - Captain D's

Friday - I can't find any on Friday sorry :(

Saturday - Steak N Shake (dine in only)

Sunday - Steak N Shake (dine in only)
               Hooters



Everyday - Toots (hot dog kids meal with ice cream)
                  McAlisters (1.99 meals)
                  Logans (2.99 meals on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday all day, and 3-6pm every other day)


and more to come.


I can not believe how often I check my own blog.  I love getting cheap kids food.  We will base where we eat on who has cheap kids food.

Some of our favorites include Zaxby's (the chicken is great, and the kids get a rice krispy treat, my daughter loves that) Steak N Shake (yummy cheese fries, and the kids can choose from many healthier side items)   Toots (any night you want to eat out....free meal for the kids...that is awesome.  On Tuesday they have a special for a burger and fries for 3.99) Southwest Moes (their food is absolutely delicious)  Fazolis (the breadsticks...yum.  They also have a craft or activity for the kids while they are waiting on the food)



* If any of this information in incorrect please leave me a comment so I can update it.  Also if you know of another place that offers a kids night, let me know so I can let everyone else know.  Thanks so much for your help.

Sorry!

I have been a horrible blogger.  I have been juggling multiple things, and just being pregnant, forgetful and a bad blogger.  So I am going to get better.  Just bear with me, and I hope that by the end of the day I will have updated you on the things to do this month with your kids, and given you some excellent ideas about some inexpensive easy crafts. 

Tomato Festival Sat Aug 13, 2011

Tomato Festival

 Sat Aug 13, 2011

TOMATO ART SHOW

(August 13 – September 11, 2011)

VIEW THE TOMATO ART ON
Saturday, August 13, 2011
10:00am – 8:00pm

EVENTS

                                                     

Tomato Fairy/Elf Costume Contest:

Bobbing For Tomatoes / Tomato Toss:

Tomato Bicycle Art Contest

Faux Paw Fashion Show

Giant Ice Cream Sundae Extravaganza

Red Head Competition 

Biggest/ Littlest/Ugliest Tomato Contest 

Beautiful Tomato Contest

Wet Burrito Contest

and more 

SCHEDULE 

Main Stage


Location: Lot next to Bongo Java on 11th


10:00 am Half Brass
11:00 am Deville Soul


12:00 pm Bodhicitta Bellydance
1:00 pm Richard DuBois


2:00 pm The Red Caps
3:00 pm Fanny’s House of Music presents “The Wits & Rambles”
4:00 pm Crazy Aces
5:00 pm Homemade Water
6:00 pm The Coolin’ System
7:00 pm Charles Butler & Associates
8:00 pm Ned Van Go (this is my friends uncles band...check them out)
9:00 pm Totie
The Green Wagon Stage

 

Location:1100 Forrest Ave.

10am- Kristen Cothran
11am- This Old Bear
12pm- Adam Finchler
1pm- Pageant
2pm- Mark Robinson
3pm- David Greenberg
4pm- Little Johnny Kantreed
5pm- Auto Defiance
6pm- New Pleasure
7pm- Oh Dang Lo Mein
8pm- Kat Smo
9pm- Evan P. Donahue
10pm-DJ Nekos

 

KidFest: (Hosted by East End Methodist Church)
Inflatables! Water Slide! Tomato Head Hair Painting! PoPsicles! Free fun for children of all ages!
Fairytales Bookstore will be on hand with a fun tomato inspired craft project.
New this year, Explorastory, a storytelling guild from Hendersonville, will be performing Tomato Tales from 10:30-11:30, and “Leslie’s Music Together” will be doing a live demonstration of her family music classes at 11:30am.
And as if that were not enough, Boy Scout Troop 3 will be on hand with refreshments available for purchase. Yum.
WHERE: the park at the corner of 12^th & Holly
WHEN: Saturday, August 13, 2011
TIME: 8:30 am – 12:30pm
 

 

 

* We went last year and this event was a lot of fun.  You may want to pack some snacks or a lunch and put a swimsuit on the kids.  There are all kinds of  things for the kids.  

Go check out their website there is a lot more information.

http://tomatoartfest.com/

 

Get a box of child clothing for only $5

Thred UP

I just found out about this.  It seems pretty awesome.  I am going to wait to try until my new baby comes and we find out the sex.  If it is a girl I am going to need a box of clothes.  

What is the deal?   Pick a great new box full of clothes for your child for just $5 plus $10.95 shipping.

Navigate the listings similar to surfing eBay, iTunes or Amazon.  Sort by gender, size, brand, season or type of item.  Find baby, toddler, or pre-teen clothing, and toys for all age. Get your box sent directly to your doorstep by the parent who listed it.  Add listers to your Favorite Senders list and filter search results to view only boxes that your favorite senders have listed.  View community ratings to ensure high quality items and picking boxes with confidence 

Post a box of gently worn clothes your child no longer wears.  Receive a pack of FREE USPS flat rate boxes automatically sent to you (free of charge) upon registration.  Sort clothes by making groups of the same size, season(s) and gender.  Separate by clothing item type (tops and bottoms) and brand. Keep outfits and matching items together.  

When another member picks you box, send it FREE of charge.  Confirm that you can send the box.  Print the prepaid shipping label and auto-schedule the pick-up.  Attach the label to the packed up free box that we sent you and confirm the pick-up time.  Depending on where you live, you can leave the box outside your front door for convenience sake.

**I have a friend that used this website and she recently got her box of clothes.  She said that she is super happy with the clothes she received.  I am really interested in exploring this site.  I would like to see the clothes that I am receiving, I have only browsed around a little so if you know anything leave me a comment.  

Check out the website for more info or to sign up. http://www.thredup.com

FAAN Walk for Food Allergy

 FAAN Walk for Food Allergy 

I am walking for one of my best friend's daughter.  She is a great little girl with amazing parents who struggle every day to protect their child from multiple food allergies.  

Help Me Reach My Goal!
I am participating in the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network?s (FAAN?s) Walk for Food Allergy. The event will raise funds to find a cure for food allergy and to educate others.

FAAN?s mission is to raise public awareness, to provide advocacy and education, and to advance research on behalf of all those affected by food allergies and anaphylaxis.

Please support my fundraising efforts with a donation. Your tax-deductible gift will make a difference in the lives of the estimated 12 million Americans with food allergies and their families. You can make your secure credit card donation by selecting the Support Me button.

Any amount helps me reach my fundraising goal. I greatly appreciate your support!

Date of Walk: Saturday, August 27, 2011
Location: Centennial Park, 2500 W. End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203
Check-In Begins: 8:00 a.m.
Walk Begins: 9:00 a.m.
Distance: 2 miles
Contact: Walknashville@foodallergy.org
Restrictions: No pets, glass bottles, bikes, roller skates, or skate boards. Baby strollers and wagons are welcomed.

We Walk Rain or Shine.

Visit http://www.foodallergywalk.org/site/TR/2011Walks/2011Walks?px=1867509&pg=personal&fr_id=1952  and sponsor me or join our team and come walk with us.

Places to go...Cheap!

Strike and Spare Family Fun Center

Murfreesboro, TN

Daily Specials

SUNDAY
4:00 PM to 11:00 PM
BOWL TIL U DROP
$7.00 per person
$2.00 off w/college or military ID

MON. - THURS.

Open to 1:00 AM

$1.00 games, shoes,

12 oz. domestic drafts and soft drinks

FRIDAY

11:00 AM to 6:00 PM

ALL YOU CAN BOWL

$8.50 per person

FREE Shoe Rental

$1 off w/college or military ID

FRI & SAT

Midnight to 2:00 AM

ALL YOU CAN BOWL

$10.00 per person

FREE Shoe Rental

$1 off w/college or military ID

Lanes, Trains and Automobiles

Mon-Fri &
All day Wednesdays
10am - 5pm
$1 shoes, bowling, cokes,
popcorn, hot dogs, and pizza slices

All day Tuesday
 $2 bowling, shoes, cokes, popcorn and domestic bottles

More special offers on the website
In  addition to bowling they offer
Laser tag, Bumper Cars, Arcade games and Pool Tables



Go USA Fun Park

No current specials

They offer go carts, mini golf, an arcade, batting cages, and a driving range

Discovery Center

Calendar of Events

Hours
Monday thru Saturday 10 am – 5 pm
Sunday 1 pm – 5 pm
The Discovery Center is closed major holidays.

Admission
Adults & Children: $6.00
Children under two are FREE!
Members receive free admission