été 2014: July 23

Is it really mid July?  The Summer Reading Program is just a few weeks away from ending and the Sunday ads are splashed with colorful deals on crayons, notebooks, and pencils. I even browsed Zulily this morning, checking out all the cute clothes for back to school. Luckily, C-Bot isn't going this year (even though she turned 5 in June). I feel she just isn't socially or emotionally ready yet. We have a few more things to work on before I let her loose upon the elementary school world. Like using the potty without my help. [Insert not amused face here]. But summer isn't over yet! There is still fun to be had.

As a stay at home mommy, I am always trying to find fun and educational things for C-Bot to do to fill up the hot summer days.  Maybe your new to town (WELCOME!), or maybe you have a small child or toddler and are just tired of hanging out in the AC. Here are some of the things around town that are filling up our days.

1. Library.  Our summer, this year, has really revolved around the library. It's about 3 minutes away from our house and they have offered some really awesome activities for their summer program. Today was the last day of her "My Own Preschool Storytime". Which was a 45 minute storytime that simulates preschool for 4-5 year olds. No parents. She absolutely loved it and we will definitely be registering for the fall series. They sing, dance, read, and write their letters. She got a certificate and everything at the end. Plus I had 45 minutes to read quietly. Very proud. The fall registration begins Monday, August 25, 2014. You can head over HERE to register.

2. They are also offering a Summer Reading Challenge, which we are participating in. So far she has gotten a bowling coupon for Pinboys, a free book and also gets to spin the wheel for various little toys as she completes the goals. We read A LOT of books so this is great for her. It ends August 9th, but there is still plenty of time to get in some good reading and prizes.

3.  Regal Summer Movie Express.  This is great!! Regal cinemas offers kids' previously released movies for just $1.00!!! We have seen The Adventures of Tin Tin and Smurfs 2. They start at 10am on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Lucky for us we live mere feet away from the theater and we just walk. Oh, and we may possibly have soda and popcorn for breakfast. To check out the schedule you can go HERE.

4. Barnes & Noble. They have a great storytime on Wednesday mornings and Friday evenings. It usually is a short book and then a coloring activity. Also within walking distance. Yes, we are lucky. They also offer a variety of side programs and themed storytimes all the time. Just check their calendar of events HERE to find out what is happening at your nearest location.

Hope these are helpful! Get out there and enjoy the rest of that summer!

If you are interested in Zulily by all means please go HERE. They have the cutest stuff and I am addicted. School clothes shopping is coming!

Here is a list of some upcoming things on our calendar. We like to stay busy.
Superman Storytime, Barnes & Noble Town Center Friday, July 23rd 7pm
DC Superhero Day, Barnes & Noble Town Center Saturday, July 25th 1-3pm
JB's Rattles Program, MEO Central Library Monday, July 28th 10:30am
Frozen Party, Barnes & Noble Town Center Friday, August 1st 7pm

Luck & Love!
Jillian