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April 28, 2011

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Mother's Day Giveaway Blitz 2011!

* Images not displayed? Be sure to click "Always Display Images from this Sender" in order to receive our full content! *

MKP’s Mother’s Day Blitz 2011 is well underway (Mother’s Day is May 8^th). We have three exciting giveaways from local businesses this week. You may enter as many giveaways as you would like, but we ask that only one family member enter each time.

Need to de-clutter an area of your home or office and don’t know how? Christine Peterson of Day Well Spent is ...

Day Well Spent & MKP's Mother's Day Blitz

Win a 2-hour consultation with personal organizer!

Day Well Spent provides personalized consultation to declutter one's home or office. More importantly, DWS suggests strategies to develop and streamline organizing systems to help you live more efficiently.

* *CLICK on "Read more" to find out how to win a 2-hour Consultation from Day Well Spent.**

Christine Park Peterson was an investment banker for 12 years, and she mastered the art of creating order out of chaos. Working under extreme conditions, she developed organizing principles, which allowed her to work efficiently. Little did she know that all of those ...

( Comments: 9)

Marston's Restaurant & MKP's Mother's Day Blitz

Four lucky winners will each receive one $25 gift certificate!

* *CLICK on "Read more" to find out how to win a gift certificate to Marston's Restaurant.**

Marston's Restaurant has been known in Los Angeles as a great breakfast and lunch restaurant since 1987. Their goal is to make you feel at home and comfortable while serving you fresh, delicious, high quality food.

Marston's was recognized in 2003 by Zagat as #1 for breakfast in Los Angeles and more recently, in 2010, was named the "Best Breakfast in California" by The Food Network Magazine. In addition to serving ...

( Comments: 21)

Ishkara Skin Studio & MKP's Mother's Day Blitz

Win a mango Enzyme Peel Facial!

* *CLICK on "Read more" to find out how to win a Facial from Ishkara Skin Studio.**

Tamra Auzenne has been a licensed esthetician for 24 years and her passion is bringing the highest quality skin care service to the community of Pasadena. With a French influenced educational training in San Malo France, Tamra approaches each client’s face with care, addressing the skin's individual needs.

Ishkara Skin Studio is a private, tranquil space for clients to come and relax while improving the health of their skin and the body ...

( Comments: 15)

MKP Discount to Gershwin @ The Pasadena Playhouse

20% off George Gershwin Alone & Great American Songbook Sing-Along

Hershey Felder as GEORGE GERSHWIN ALONE, is a play with music about the legendary American composer, George Gershwin, incorporating Gershwin's best-known songs, from “The Man I Love” to “Someone to Watch Over Me” as well as a full performance of "Rhapsody in Blue." Hershey Felder brings to life the spirit and talent of the legendary composer and pianist, leading audiences through the fascinating rhythms of Gershwin’s beloved songbook, while telling the tale of his tragically short life. BroadwayWorld says "go, go, go!," Chicago Sun-Times calls it "a truly ...

When is it More than Just the Blues?

By: Vicki Chiang, Psy.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist Institute for Girls’ Development

Childhood – a carefree and happy time in life, right? Because what do children have to be sad about? Lots actually. Depression is an illness that affects about 5% of the general population of children and adolescents according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP). They define depression as “an illness when the feelings of depression persist and interfere with a child or adolescent’s ability to function.” Recent research tells us that childhood depression occurs at younger ages than you might think and that in a day ...

( Comments: 1)

The Green Spot Event Giveaway: 2 pre-sale tickets!

May 18-21st in Arcadia

With the passing of Earth day we were all reminded of our families impact on the environment, and then inspired to do something to reduce our waste. Consignment shopping offers parents a way to save money on the items we need, and get rid of those we don't (without adding to the waste bin).

The Green Spot Event offers a consignment shopping experience unlike any before. We have a boutique area with new environmentally friendly products, well-organized racks and displays and discounts you can't find anywhere else. Our ...

( Comments: 4)

Dinosaur Train Winner!

Plus, Another Fun Train-Lover's Event: National Train Day!

Congratulations to Sandy I! You are off to the exclusive, invitation only Dinosaur Train event on May 7th. Hope you have a blast!

If you didn't win this Family 4-pack but have train lovers in your family, be sure to check out National Train Day at L.A.'s Union Station on May 7th from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm. What's National Train Day you ask?

National Train Day commemorates the 142nd anniversary of the transcontinental railroad’s inception by bringing to life the rich history of ...

This Week's Picks:

April 30th through May 3rd

Saturday, April 30 - Reese's Retreat Playground Opening Ceremony

To the cheers of local children, city leaders will lay out the welcome mat at Reese’s Retreat during a community grand opening celebration. Reese’s Retreat is Pasadena’s first universally accessible playground designed with special equipment to delight children of all ages and abilities. The fanciful spot is named for Reese Elliott, the late son of Marchelle Sellers and James Elliott. Born with special needs, Reese loved nothing more than to play pirates and superheroes with other children.

Where: Reese's Retreat is in the southeast corner of Brookside Park just east of the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center

When: 9:00 AM

Who: Everyone!

How: Just show up!

Cost: FREE!

For more info: http://ww2.cityofpasadena.net/publicaffairs/InFocus/2011/03_11/page2.asp

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Saturday, April 30 - 2nd Annual Celebration of the 5th Anniversary of Arlington Garden

Councilmember Steve Madison and Betty and Charles McKenney, invite you to come enjoy the Garden’s Spring bloom; experience the groundbreaking plant identification and signage program featuring Smartphone technology; taste Arlington Garden Sweet Navel Orange Marmalade that will be available; get advice by talented garden designers and native plant experts; walk the labyrinth and get a close look at wildflowers including the California Poppy outline. The Program: 9:45 AM Welcome and Remarks; 10:00 AM Signage and Smartphone Technology with Brendan McKenney; 10:15 AM Plant Talk by Ramon of Lincoln Avenue Nursery and Wendy Proud; and 12:00 PM Labyrinths by Angela Howell, Labyrinth Pilgrim

Where: Pasadena Avenue and Arlington Drive; street parking only.

When: 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM

Who: Everyone!

How: Just show up!

Cost: FREE!

For more info: Information:Betty and Charles McKenney (626-441-4428) or [email protected]. Takako Suzuki, Field Representative (626-744-4739) or [email protected].

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Saturday, April 30 - LA Children's Chorus Open House

Los Angeles Children’s Chorus (LACC) invites you to its Open House. This is a great opportunity for families to visit, observe, and join the Apprentice choristers during rehearsal and ask questions about LACC's program. Audition information will be provided as well. For children ages six and seven, we will also include a short demo of LACC's "First Experiences in Singing" program. We hope you will be able to join, and please tell a friend!

Where: Pasadena Presbyterian Church - Fellowship Hall
585 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91101

When: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Who: Families.

How: To RSVP or for more information, please contact Sue Li at [email protected] or call 626.793.4231.

Cost: FREE!

For more info: www.lachildrenschorus.org

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Saturday, April 30 - Norma Coombs Annual Spring Fair

The spring fair will include food trucks, music, raffles, and local crafters selling their art just in time for Mother's Day! The event takes place on the school's beautiful open campus across the street from Pasadena's Victory Park.
Come play, shop, eat and have fun - all while supporting a local elementary school!

Where: Norma Coombs Alternative School 2600 Paloma Street, Pasadena

When: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Who: Everyone!

How: Just show up!

Cost: FREE admission.

For more info: http://ncas.pasadenausd.org/

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Sunday, May 1 - 2011 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer San Gabriel Valley @ Lacy Park

The Making Strides event is not a race; it is a celebration of survivorship, an occasion to express hope, and a shared goal to end a disease that threatens the lives of so many people we love. When you participate in the Making Strides event, you’re helping create a world with less breast cancer and more birthdays - where breast cancer never steals another year from anyone’s life. If you'd like to participate, please click on the sign up button.

Where: Lacy Park 1485 Virginia Road, San Marino

When: 8:30 AM (Registration begins at 8:30 AM, rolling start at 9:00 AM.)

Who: Everyone!

How: CLICK HERE to register online.

Cost: FREE! There is no registration fee or minimum fundraising amount and people of all ages are welcome to participate.

For more info: http://makingstrides.acsevents.org/site/TR?fr_id=35092&pg=entry

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Tuesday, May 3 through Monday, May 9 - George Gershwin Alone @ The Pasadena Playhouse

Hershey Felder as GEORGE GERSHWIN ALONE, is a play with music about the legendary American composer, George Gershwin, incorporating the Gershwin's best-known songs, from “The Man I Love” to “Someone to Watch Over Me” as well as a full performance of "Rhapsody in Blue." Hershey Felder brings to life the spirit and talent of the legendary composer and pianist, leading audiences through the fascinating rhythms of Gershwin’s beloved songbook, while telling the tale of his tragically short life. BroadwayWorld says "go, go, go!," Chicago Sun-Times calls it "a truly amazing must-see performance!" and USA Today raves "Glorious! Poignant and fascinating!"

Where: The Pasadena Playhouse (39 S. El Molino Avenue, Pasadena

When: 8:00 PM (7:00 PM and matinee performances also.)

Who: Parents and older children.

How: CLICK HERE to purchase tickets online or visit the Box Office. Email [email protected] for special discount for Macaroni Kid Pasadena subscribers.

Cost: $39 - $59 per person. See discount above for MKP subscribers.

For more info: http://www.pasadenaplayhouse.org/

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This Week's Calendar:

April 27th through May 3rd

Wednesday, April 27 through Saturday, April 30 - PARENTS OUTING: Expressing Motherhood's Mother's Day Show

The hit show Expressing Motherhood returns for its 6th LA production and features a whole new cast. The show was conceived by two women during their children's nap time and is sure to make you laugh, cry, and cheer. These are real mothers, not actors portraying their unbelievably candid experiences on being a mother. You need not be a mother....or even a woman to thoroughly enjoy this show!

Where: Elephant Space Theater 6322 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles

When: 7:30 PM (Shows on 5/4-5/7 at 7:30 PM.)

Who: Parents, grandparents, friends of parents.

How: CLICK HERE to purchase tickets online. Opening night is SOLD OUT!

Cost: $20/person.

For more info: http://www.expressingmotherhood.com/

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Thursday, April 28 through Saturday, April 30 - Shen Yun Performing Arts @ Pasadena Civic Auditorium

With an all-new 2011 production, the world’s celebrated Shen Yun will offer an exhilarating experience with grand scale performances that celebrate the pure excellence of classical Chinese dance and music inspired by the myths, legends, and divine beauty of 5,000 years of traditional Chinese culture. You will be spellbound by stunning costumes, brilliant choreography and state-of-the-art dynamic backdrops, all complemented by a live orchestra combining Chinese and Western instruments in a masterful fusion.

Where: Pasadena Civic Auditorium 300 East Green Street, Pasadena

When: 7:30 PM (Thu. April 28, 2011 7:30PM Fri. April 29, 2011 7:30PM Sat. April 30, 2011 2:00PM & 7:30PM)

Who: Parents and children 10+.

How: Buy tickets online at WebTicketCenter; TicketMaster 1-800-982-2787; Box Office 626-449-7360

Cost: $60 - $180

For more info: http://laspectacular.com/

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Saturday, April 30 through Sunday, May 1 - Wild West Days @ the Arboretum

Howdy! Join the celebration of the rich history of Arboretum’s past. There will be Barn Dances featuring The Moonlight Trio and caller Ginger Alberti; performances by the Shadow Mountain Band on Saturday, and Pam Loe & Hipshot on Sunday; trick roping by Hermanos Banuelos Charro Team on Saturday and much more. Come enjoy the music of calliopes, ride a carriage and chow down on western-style food. There will be lots of family activities. CLICK HERE for full schedule.

Where: LA County Arboretum 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia

When: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Who: Everyone!

How: Just show up!

Cost: FREE with museum admission: $8.00 General Admission; $6.00 Seniors, Full-time students; $3.00 Children 5 - 12

For more info: http://www.arboretum.org/ The Arboretum's historic Coach Barn, Santa Anita Train Depot and elegant Queen Anne Cottage will be open both days.

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Saturday, April 30 through Sunday, May 1 - Annual LA Festival of Books

The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books is a free, public festival celebrating the written word. Started in 1996, the Festival is held on the last weekend of April and this year the festival takes place at USC (not UCLA as in previous years). It features vendors, authors and publishers. Some of the events are panels with authors discussing a common subject, storytelling and performances for children as well as the LA Times Book Prizes.

Where: USC University Park Campus, USC Exposition and S. Figueroa Los Angeles, CA

When: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Who: Everyone!

How: Just show up!

Cost: FREE!

For more info: http://events.latimes.com/festivalofbooks/

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Saturday, April 30 through Sunday, May 1 - Spring Tailgate @ Descanso Gardens

Why should sports fans have all the fun? Tailgating comes to Descanso Gardens when Patina Restaurant Group opens its “Spring Tailgate at Descanso” concession in the Descanso picnic area. Enjoy Patina’s distinctive spin on hearty fare like a pulled pork sandwich in dark ale sauce or a grilled Portobello mushroom burger, served in a festive outdoor setting. The barbecue will give visitors another option for refreshments during the busy spring months.

Where: Descanso Gardens is located 20 minutes from downtown Los Angeles at 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge.

When: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Spring Tailgate at Descanso will be open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, March 26 through May 8.)

Who: Everyone!

How: Just show up! In addition, the Full Moon Teahouse in the Japanese Garden will sell snacks and beverages including beer and wine from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends, March 26-May 8. The Descanso Café will be open its usual hours, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.

Cost: There is no admission charge: Spring Tailgate at Descanso is located outside the Gardens. Rooke hopes locals drop by for a quick bite, as well as Gardens visitors. “If you have a craving for a pulled pork sandwich we will be your go to place.”

For more info: To view the Spring Tailgate at Descanso menu, visit www.descansogardens.org Information: www.descansogardens.org or (818) 949-4200.

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Saturday, April 30 - 34th Annual Occasional Doo-Dah Parade

Daring to go where, well, we went last year, this year’s Pasadena Doo Dah Parade will venture eastward for the second time in its colorful history. While the alternative event has enjoyed much popular success in the Old Pasadena retail and entertainment district, organizers are excited to bring the eclectic parade to the town-like setting of East Pasadena. “Old Pasadena has been a terrific backdrop and host for the Doo Dah Parade,” says organizer Tom Coston. “But East Pasadena is an exciting new frontier with its own local character and possibilities. It’ll be a great party for all!” Bring a lawn chair.

Where: Colorado Blvd. (between Sierra Madre and San Gabriel Blvds.) Pasadena (Start Location: 2627 E. Colorado Blvd. 91107)

When: 11:00 AM

Who: Everyone!

How: Just show up!

Cost: FREE!

For more info: For public information and to sign up for the Parade call (626) 590-1134 or visit http://www.pasadenadoodahparade.info/

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Saturday, April 30 - Spring Festival @ Hastings Ranch Nursery School

Hastings Ranch Nursery School hosts its spring festival with 2 food trucks, carnival games, bounce house, face painting, cake walk, and more. Plus two live musical performances by Twinkle Time, a high energy kids' band.

Where: Hastings Ranch Nursery School 3740 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena

When: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Who: Everyone!

How: Just show up!

Cost: No admission fee. Small ticket price for games, bounce house, food, etc.

For more info: http://twinkleandfriends.blogspot.com/

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Sunday, May 1 - 7th Annual Wags and Whiskers, Kids 'n Kritters Walk in Montrose

Created by the Montrose Merchants, "Kids 'n Kritters" is dedicated to activities of interest to children and families in the Crescenta Valley and the North Glendale Areas. “Wags & Whiskers,” celebrates our 4 legged friends with a pet walk and contest in the Shopping Park. Anchoring the activities will be the popular Montrose Harvest Market. There will be a bounce house and other actvities and games for children.

Where: Montrose Shopping Park 2200 Honolulu Avenue, Montrose

When: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Who: Everyone!

How: Just show up!

Cost: FREE! Some activities charge a nominal fee.

For more info: http://www.shopmontrose.com/wags-n-whiskers.html

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Sunday, May 1 - The Autry Celebrates Earth Day

The Autry is hosting its first Earth Day celebration, a museum-wide festival where you'll have fun and learn ways to help heal the planet. Backyard farmers, gardening experts, green-build architects and wildlife experts will be on-hand to share their methods for providing balance among the plants, animals, humans, bugs, and bees. Then join in the ladybug release on the Autry’s South Lawn. Enjoy Indigenous and world-music throughout the day or join in the community mural project. Visit the Kid’s Planet area for fun and games. Then head indoors to Wells Fargo Theater for Earth-related film screenings sponsored by LA Skins Fest and the Sierra Club, an Eco-Tour of the Autry galleries.

Where: The Aurty in Griffith Park 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles Weekend Traffic Advisory: Avoid construction on Crystal Springs Drive by taking the Zoo Exit off Route 5 Northbound or the Victory Blvd. exit from Route 5 Southbound.

When: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Who: Everyone!

How: CLICK HERE to get tickets.

Cost: $11/adult, $5/child (3-12 years).

For more info: http://theautry.org/

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Sunday, May 1 - Pasdena Symphony's Musical Circus: Rach & Roll @ The Americana

Hosted by Jamie Shaheen, this Musical Circus will allow kids to learn more about the piano and become more familiar with its versatility and unique sound. The theme of the show will reflect the Pasadena Symphony’s upcoming concert, Rachmaninoff 2, featuring acclaimed pianist, Chu-Fang Huang. The Pasadena Symphony Association’s Musical Circus is a perennial favorite for children 3-8 years of age. The Circus will begin with the instrument “petting zoo” where youngsters can toot flutes, blow trumpets, pluck violins and cellos and bang on percussion instruments.

Where: The Americana at Brand in Glendale.

When: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM (Monthly event.)

Who: Recommended for children 3-8 years, but everyone welcome.

How: Just show up!

Cost: FREE!

For more info: http://www.pasadenasymphony-pops.org/musical-circusrach-and-roll/

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Sunday, May 1 - Stories in the Afternoon @ Norton Simon: Strange Weather

Bundle up as you hear stories about clouds, winds, rains and storms while creating your own collage of unusual weather conditions in front of Aert van der Neer’s Winter Scene with Figures Playing Kolf, 1655–60.

Where: Norton Simon Museum 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena

When: 2:00 PM

Who: Everyone!

How: Just show up!

Cost: FREE with Museum admission.

For more info: http://www.nortonsimon.org/

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Tuesday, May 3 - Kids Club @ The Americana

Weekly entertainment for kids and families out on the lawn. For lunch, head to a participating restaurant where kids eat free (with purchase of adult entree). Join Kids Club at the booth and get free kids t-shirt and coupons for Americana stores.

Where: Community Room at The Americana at Brand 889 Americana Way, Glendale

When: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM (Every Tuesday)

Who: Kids and families.

How: Just show up!

Cost: FREE!

For more info: http://www.americanaatbrand.com/

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Tuesday, May 3 - FREE Family Night @ Kidspace: Indian Storytelling through Dance

The Chitresh Das Dance Company will be at Kidspace performing traditional dances from India. Learn storytelling through the art of dance with this dynamic dance company, and learn the interesting history of dance in India. The main performance starts at 6:00 p.m. Join us in the climbing towers as we make our own Dwali Rangoli art from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. All performances are made possible by the City of Pasadena Cultural Affairs Division Grant.

Where: Kidpsace 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena

When: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Who: Everyone!

How: Just show up!

Cost: FREE!

For more info: http://www.kidspacemuseum.org/

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Plan Ahead:

May 6th through May 18th

Friday, May 6 - National Public Gardens Day Celebrated @ Descanso Gardens

Descanso Gardens, Southern California’s admired 160-acre botanic garden just north of Los Angeles, will celebrate the 3rd annual National Public Gardens Day on May 6, 2011, by offering visitors a never-before-seen glimpse into their unique Harvest Garden, a “secret garden” usually reserved for use by students with special developmental needs. For one day only, this garden will be open to the public through guided tours showcasing student-maintained school gardening plots, grapevines, an orchard, a pavilion, greenhouse, pond and an outdoor kitchen.

Where: Descanso Gardens

When: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Who: Everyone!

How: Just show up!

Cost: FREE!

For more info: For more information on this and other upcoming events, please visit http://www.descansogardens.org.

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Saturday, May 7 - Register for AYSO Region 13

As of March 15, 2011, registration for the Fall 2011 season in AYSO Region 13 is now open!   Players and volunteers must renew registration every year.   After March 15, 2011, pre-register at http://www.eAYSO.org. If you have registered in the past, please use the same account (email address and password).   Players should bring one copy of the registration form, volunteers should bring two copies. Please print your forms ahead of time to avoid delays.

Where: Region 13 Clubhouse (711 W Woodbury Rd, Unit E, Altadena, 91001)

When: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM (Walk-In Registration dates: April 9th 9:00am-1:00pm; May 7 9:00am-1:00pm May 21 9:00am-1:00pm.)

Who: Children interested in playing soccer who live in Pasadena, Altadena, or La Canada

How: After pre-registering, you will get a discounted registration fee by bringing your signed registration form, ID and proof of player age (for players new to Region 13) to pay your fee and complete registration at the Region 13 Clubhouse.

Cost: The fees for 2011 are:
-Registration April 9, May 7, and May 21: discounted fee of $110 for the first player and $90 for every other player from the same family.
-Registration after May 21: $135 per player.

For more info: You can find this and all other announcements on the AYSO Region 13 website at www.ayso13.org.

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Saturday, May 7 through Sunday, May 8 - 49th Annual Sierra Madre Art Fair

One hundred artists will display and sell their fine art during the weekend. Some will be demonstrating their
techniques as well. Activities for children will be hosted by the Creative Arts Group, who will treat children to a fun and imaginative craft activity called “Insects in the Garden.” Live music will be featured throughout the weekend. The Food Court will offer a variety of foods and drinks from non-profit and local vendors, including BF Factory, Taquito Lover, Ruby’s Diner, and Kealey’s Poppin’ Kettlecorn. The Sierra Madre Historical Preservation Society will be selling their popular lemonade and the Friends of the Library will once again sell a selection of homemade sweet and quick breads.

Where: Memorial Park 222 W Sierra Madre Blvd, Sierra Madre

When: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM (Sunday from 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM.)

Who: Everyone!

How: Just show up!

Cost: FREE!

For more info: For more details please call Sharon Murphy, 626-355-3977, or visit the Friends’ website.

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Saturday, May 7 - Family Adventures @ the Arboretum: What is a seed pot?

Join your adventure guide as we explore the Arboretum. Each Saturday is new and exciting, and will have a different theme relating to nature. Come early as space is limited to 25. Children of all ages are welcome! Family adventures will go on rain or shine so dress appropriately!

Where: LA County Arboretum 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia

When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Who: Families.

How: Just show up! Meet by the fountain in front of the Oak Room.

Cost: Free with Admission.

For more info: http://www.arboretum.org/

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Saturday, May 7 - Celebrate National Train Day @ LA's Union Station

Amtrak is calling all kids, young and old, to join in the National Train Day festivities. Don’t miss your chance to see model trains, train equipment displays, special exhibits and other exciting attractions. CLICK HERE to see event details. Macaroni Tip: Take the Gold Line to Union Station for a fun ride to celebrate National Train Day. The ride is only about 20 minutes. CLICK HERE for locations.

Where: Union Station 800 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles.

When: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Who: Everyone!

How: Just show up! $6 Parking available at E. Cesar Chavez and N. Vignes Streets in the MTA Lot

Cost: FREE Fun For All!

For more info: http://www.nationaltrainday.com/events/la/

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Saturday, May 7 - PARENTS OUTING: Meet the Instruments @ Pasadena Conservatory of Music

Meet the Instruments is an information session for parents of children who are interested in instrumental and voice study at the Pasadena Conservatory of Music (PCM). It is an opportunity for parents to learn about requirements for beginning instrumental study at PCM as well as study and practice requirements. Teachers from the piano, guitar, strings and vocal arts departments will address the physical and cognitive readiness that should be in place for a child to achieve the greatest success and progress on each instrument. They will discuss the most appropriate ages to begin each instrument and how parents can help children choose an instrument to study. Q&A following presentation.

Where: Pasadena Conservatory of Music 100 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena

When: 1:30 PM

Who: Parents with children. The demonstration is for adults only. Children should not attend.

How: Reservations are required at [email protected] or 626-683-3355.

Cost: FREE!

For more info: http://www.pasadenaconservatory.org/

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Sunday, May 8 - Celebrate Mother's Day @ The Huntington

Show Mom how much you care this Mother's Day: treat her to a Champagne brunch and an afternoon at The Huntington. Two very special options are offered this year: a delicious buffet meal served al fresco in the Rose Garden, and deluxe gourmet baskets on the Garden Terrace lawn. You can also enjoy traditional English tea in the Rose Garden Tea Room.

Where: The Huntington Gardens and Library 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino

When: 10:45 AM (10:45 a.m., 12:30 p.m., & 2:30 p.m. seatings available)

Who: Everyone!

How: Reservations are now being accepted for Sunday, May 8. Please call 626-405-2249.

Cost: Various packages available. CLICK HERE for more info.

For more info: http://huntington.org/

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Sunday, May 15 - Pasadena Marathon

Pasadena Forward brings you the Kaiser Permanente Pasadena Marathon. Pick your pleasure—whether you’re looking for a Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, Bike Tour, or Wheelchair Stroll. This international event has become a beacon for individuals from all over the world to participate along with friends and family. This year, there will be a Kids' Fun Zone with activities, games, and more for kids of all ages. Macaroni Kid Pasadena will be there. Start Times
Bike Tour - 5:45 a.m.
Marathon - 6:30 a.m.
Half Marathon - 6:30 a.m.
10K - 7:30 a.m.
5K - 7:30 a.m.
1K Wheelchair Stroll - 8:00 a.m.
1K / 0.5K Kids Run - 9:00 a.m.

Where: Start and Finish: Pasadena City College 1570 East Colorado Boulevard Pasadena, CA 91106

When: 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Who: Everyone!

How: CLICK HERE to register online or at event. *5K is Sold Out! If you still wish to participate in this event, you must be present at the close of the Expo at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 14, at the Pasadena Convention Center.

Cost: CLICK HERE for prices of various races. 1K / 0.5K Kids Run $25

For more info: http://www.pasadenamarathon.org

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Wednesday, May 18 through Saturday, May 21 - The Green Spot Event Spring Sale

With thousands of baby items to shop from, moms are sure find everything they will need at a fraction of retail prices. The Green Spot Event has a commitment to the environment and we are encouraging no plastic bags by asking shoppers to bring a reusable tote bag. On Saturday shoppers will enjoy Super Saver Saturday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. many items will be marked half off. Free admission to all bargain shoppers is offered for Saturday’s event. Kids outgrow items so fast. The Green Spot Event offers parents a way to make money off of their kids outgrown items.

Where: 130 W. Huntington Drive, Arcadia, CA

When: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Regular sale dates are Thursday, May 19 (10 a.m - 9 p.m.) and Friday, May 20 ( 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.))

Who: Everyone!

How: Just show up or purchase tickets

Cost: First time moms, those with a child under 6 months, expecting moms and consignors are invited to attend this exclusive sale for FREE. Other guests may purchase tickets for $5 at door.

For more info: http://www.thegreenspotevent.com/

Add to My Macaroni

Teacher Appreciation Gift Ideas

National Teacher Appreciation Week May 2-6

Did you know that I was a teacher before becoming a mom? I have about 10 years of classroom experience, and you're about to benefit from my expertise in the area of Teacher Appreciation. That's right, I'm giving you the inside scoop on unique and thoughtful ways to say thanks to your child's teacher.

Thoughtful and Generous, a Combination that Passes the Test
Never underestimate the value of a handwritten note or simple illustration from your child. This is true on Mother's Day, too, right ...

Macaroni Kid Asks Grandma

Should I take my grandchild on a trip?

Taking a a trip with he/she sounds like a great idea – unless it isn’t.

I’m a believer in starting small with grand kids, just the way they start small and get bigger. For example: Have you spent a whole day with your grandchild? Has he done an overnight before? With you? If yes, how did it go? If no, that’s the first step before a trip.

Once you’ve decided to go for it, you might want to improve the likelihood of a successful excursion by ...

Farmer's Markets in the San Gabriel Valley

Tuesday s

Pasadena Villa Park 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.  363 E Villa St, Pasadena  626.449.0179 http://www.pasadenafarmersmarket.org/

Thursday s

Glendale 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.  E Wilson Ave at E Broadway, Glendale  818.548.3155

South Pasadena 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. by the Metro Gold Line and Mission St., So. Pasadena CLICK HERE for more info.

Fridays

L.A. Eagle Rock 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.  Merton Ave at Caspar Ave ...

FREE Storytimes in San Gabriel Valley

Please call or check website before going

MONDAYS

Location: The Right Start 370 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
Start Time: 7:00 PM
Description: Right Start’s resident narrator will wow all of the little ones with an interactive story.
For more information, please call (626) 585-8900.

Location: Hastings Branch Library 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena (626) 744-7262
Start Time: 7:00 PM
Description: Pajama Story Time! Kids, put on your pajamas and bring your favorite stuffed animal to the library for bedtime stories that are sure to inspire sweet dreams.

Location: Crowell Public Library 1890 Huntington ...