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March is National Reading Month


Read Aloud, Read Often, & Keep Reading!

Reading aloud to my kids has always been a priority for our family. We have been reading books to our kids since they were infants because we knew it would help with their language development.  We have tons of books on the bookshelves, in the kids' room, in our kitchen, and around the house. We never turn down a moment to read (except at bedtime, when we resist the plea for "Just one more book, please?"). And, my husband and i love to read.

March is National Reading Month in ...


This Week's Picks:


March 6th through March 7th

Saturday, March 6 - Family Adventures at the Arboretum: Birds of the Arboretum

Join your adventure guide, Ted Tegart, Youth Education Coordinator, as we explore the birds of The Arboretum.
Where: LA County Arboretum & Botanic Garden 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: From strollers to grandparents.
How: Show up early as space is limited to 25 participants.
Cost: Free with museum admission: $8 adults, $3 children 5-12. 
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Saturday, March 6 - Science Saturdays at Caltech: HD Movie Screening of movie, Planet Earth - Caves

Planet Earth is a nature documentary series shown in HD. The episode, "Caves," takes audiences around the world to discover some of the planet's most interesting caves, tunnels and caverns. Some of the many unique creatures include the angelfish, which clings to walls in wet areas with microscopic hooks; the Texas cave salamander, an animal devoid of eyes and pigment; and swiftlets, critters who build their nests out of saliva. Andrea Choe, Graduate Student in Biology at Caltech, will guide the post-screening discussion. Hometown-Pasadena (www.hometown-pasadena.com) writer calls this one of his favorite episodes.
Where: Caltech's Beckman Auditorium 332 South Michigan Ave., Pasadena
When: 2:00 PM
Who: Recommended for children 8+ and parents/caregivers.
How: Purchase tickets at door.  Unreserved seating.
Cost: $5 per person.
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Sunday, March 7 - Pacific Asia Museum's Lantern Festival

The Pacific Asia Museum concludes its Chinese New Year celebrations with its annual Lantern Festival.  With performances by Chinese folk dancers, music, and kung fu demonstrations, this is sure to be a fun family event.  Author Oliver Chin will tell stories and share his latest book about the Chinese zodiac.   You'll also be able to make your own lantern to take home. 
Where: Pacific Asia Museum, 46 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena
When: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Children and families.
How: Purchase tickets at door.
Cost: $9 adults, children under 12 free.
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Sunday, March 7 - Pasadena Symphony - The Mozart Effect at the Americana

A perennial favorite of kids, 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 889 Americana Way, Glendale
When: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Who: Children 3-8 years and families.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free!
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This Week's Calendar:


March 4th through March 10th

Thursday, March 4 - Author Event at Whole Foods Pasadena: "Finding Humor in Motherhood"

Dani Klein Modisett, creator, producer, director of the live show "Afterbirth: stories you won't read in a parenting magazine," will read excerpts from her new book, "Afterbirth." The book reveals the hidden truths of parenting, including a life full of inappropriate impulses, unbelievable frustrations and idiotic situations. It's about how life for some parents seems to changes for the worse after their kids are born (or so it feels...). Enjoy coffee, dessert and good laughs! Non-walking babies are welcome.
Where: Whole Foods Pasadena 465 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
When: 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Who: Adults.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free.  This event is sponsored by Mothers & More of Pasadena.
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Saturday, March 6 - Free Crafts at Lakeshore: Crazy Kaleidoscope

Children will love peeking through this simple kaleidoscope that they create with stickers, glitter, paint, spangles, and more.
Where: 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
When: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Free crafts are availble every Saturday.)
Who: Ages 3 and up.
How: Just show up.
Cost: Free!
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Saturday, March 6 - Storytime & Book Signing at Kidpsace with Author Oliver Chin

Author Oliver Chin will lead a special story time to celebrate the release of his new book "The Year of the Tiger," the 2010 addition to his picture book series Tales from the Chinese Zodiac. After the storytime, Oliver will sign books in the Busy Bee Learning Store. 
Where: Kidspace Children's Museum, 480 N Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena
When: 11:00 AM
Who: All children.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free with museum admission.  $10 for adults & children over 1.  Free for members.
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Saturday, March 6 - Family Fun Classes at The Arboretum: Lost in the Arboretum

Would your family know what to do if you got lost in the outdoors?  Join us on an adventure as we get “lost” in The Arboretum and discover how to find the three basic necessities: food, shelter and water.
Where: LA Arboretum & Botanic Garden 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia; Meet by the fountain in front of the Oak Room.
When: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM (This event was rescheduled due to last Saturday's rain.)
Who: Children 5+ with parents & caregivers.
How: Call 626-821-3222 to register.
Cost: $10 per family for members; $12 per family for non-members; includes admission to Arboretum.
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Saturday, March 6 through Sunday, March 7 - Family Art Stops at the Getty Museum

Enjoy a playful introduction to art with Family Art Stops, a half-hour, hands-on gallery experience geared for families.  A gallery teacher will greet you in the Museum Entrance Hall and lead you to a family-friendly work of art in the galleries. You might meet a Renaissance oil painting, a 45-foot-tall steel sculpture, or an opulent tapestry adorned with scampering exotic animals. You and your family will look and learn together as you participate in fun activities such as puzzles, drawing, role-plays, even an artistic version of Mad Libs.  Afterwards, your gallery teacher will suggest other family-friendly works of art in the collection that you can visit to practice your new skills at looking and talking about art.
Where: The Getty Museum, 1200 Getty Center Dr., Los Angeles
When: 2:00 PM (Sessions at 2:00 PM and 2:30 PM)
Who: Children and families ages 5 and up.
How: Sign up at the Museum Information Desk beginning at 1:30 p.m. for the 2:00 p.m. program and at 2:00 p.m. for the 2:30 p.m. program on the day you'd like to participate.
Cost: Free.
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Saturday, March 6 - Craft Drop-in at Montrose Branch Library

Celebrate Dr. Seuss's birthday by making a silly hat. Refreshments & raffle.
Where: Montrose Branch Library 2465 Honolulu Ave., Montrose
When: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: For families.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free.
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Saturday, March 6 - Family Drawing Hour at the Getty Center

How do artists make real-life objects look three-dimensional in paintings? Find out how by examining shapes seen in works of art and then creating your own.  Sharpen your drawing and looking skills with this one-hour introduction to drawing. You'll join a small group led by a professional gallery teacher, who will guide you through a visit to the galleries and a series of related hands-on sketching activities.  All family members participate together, and no art experience is necessary. Come discover how fun it can be to draw from original works of art!
Where: The Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr., Los Angeles
When: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Who: Children ages 7+.
How: Sign-up begins at 3:00 PM.
Cost: Free.
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Sunday, March 7 - PCC Flea Market

Come enjoy the browsing and the bargains. With over 500 vendors, the Market features fascinating antiques and collectibles, thousands of records, tools, clothes, toys and much more, not to mention food and good company.
Where: Pasadena City College 1570 East Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
When: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Occurs first Sunday of the month)
Who: Everyone.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free! Parking $2 on Hill & Del Mar.
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Sunday, March 7 - Parenting Seminar - Calmer, Easier, Happier Parenting

This class is a must for parents who want to get back in charge through positive parenting approaches and will help their children prosper at home and in school.  Learn to deal more effectively with morning and bedtime routines, mealtimes, homework, sibling rivalry, special needs, and much more. 
Where: Kid's Klub 380 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena
When: 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Who: Parents.
How: Register online at www.calmerparenting.com
Cost: $125 per person.
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Tuesday, March 9 - Mask Madness at La Pintoresca Library

Celebrate culture, heritage and the tradition of theatrical masks and mask making as you craft your own mask. Taught by staff from the Armory Center for the Arts.
Where: La Pintoresca Branch Library 1355 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena
When: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Who: Children and teens.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free.
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Tuesday, March 9 - Barks & Books: Storytime at the Library

Be a special reading buddy to a real dog! Elementary school-age chldren can read a book to a gentle dog. This program is made possible by volunteers from the Pasadena Humane Society.
Where: Hastings Branch Library 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena
When: 3:30 PM
Who: Children.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free.
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Tuesday, March 9 - Irish Festival at Altadena Library

Come celebrate St. Patrick’s day with a good old-fashioned Irish dance party called a Ceilidh (pronounced KAY-lee). We'll perform jigs and reels, sing songs, and tell some stories from the Celtic peoples of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Wear something green or blue, and sing along with us!
Where: Altadena Library Community Room, 600 E. Mariposa St., Altadena. 
When: 7:00 PM
Who: Families and children.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free!
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Tuesday, March 9 - Arbor Day Celebration at South Pasadena Library

Farley the Fiddler (a.k.a. Gary Francisco) chronicles the life of Johnny Appleseed, a folk hero who planted apple orchards along the frontier, in a humorous musical performance featuring 11 different folk instruments used during the pioneer times. Funded by South Pasadena Beautiful.
Where: South Pasadena 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena
When: 7:15 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: All ages.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free.
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Wednesday, March 10 - Teddy Bear Clinic at Altadena Library

Have you got a sick Teddy Bear buddy? Time for a diagnosis! Bring your bear to the Altadena library where a team of medical professionals from the Huntington Hospital will do a free examination!
Where: Altadena Public Library 600 E Mariposa St., Altadena
When: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Children ages 2-6.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free.
For more info: 626-798-0833
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Teen Scene:


March 7th through March 9th

Sunday, March 7 - Teen Arts Academy at Norton Simon

In this two-day course, inspired by the exhibition Gaze: Portraiture after Ingres, teens contemplate the dynamic history of modernism—from the emotive brushwork of the Impressionists to the cool and clinical techniques employed by Andy Warhol—and the way in which the desire to portray the individual endures. Los Angeles–based artist Liz Glynn leads an exploration of ideas of self-presentation through performance and photography.
Where: Norton Simon  Museum of Art 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
When: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Kids ages 12-17.
How: Register 626.844.6980.
Cost: The course is free and limited to 18 participants.
For more info: For further information, contact the Education Department at (626) 844-6980.
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Tuesday, March 9 - Rock Band at La Canada Library

Hang out with your friends and play Rock Band. Don't miss out on the FREE snacks!
Where: La Canada Flintridge Library 4545 N. Oakwood Ave., La Cañada Flintridge
When: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: Teens
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free.
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Plan Ahead:


March 17th through March 21st

Wednesday, March 17 through Saturday, April 17 - Caterpillar Adoption Days at Kidspace

Participate in one of spring's most popular children's activity in Pasadena.  Adopt a live caterpillar by purchasing one in the Busy Bee Learning Center. Raise the insect from pupa to chrysalis to beautiful butterfly following the included directions. Return to Kidspace on April 17 to release your butterfly into its natural habitat.
Where: Kidspace Children's Museum 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena
When: 9:30 AM
Who: All children and families.
How: Call (626) 449-9144 ext. 5223 to check inventories.
Cost: $5 per caterpillar available while supplies last.
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Friday, March 19 through Saturday, March 20 - LA Kids Consignment Semi-Annual Sale

LA Kids Consignment is one of the largest children's consignment sales in the area.  For one weekend only, 50,000 gentlyused and new kids items from cribs to toys to bikes and clothing for newborns and pre-teens will be on sale at this location.  Over 450 consignors bring their stuff to this sale from over 40 miles away.  You can find some amazing deals.  Anything you're looking for, you'll find there typically at bargain prices.  Donations from the sale benefit local charities.  There's even a "diaper drop" for out-grown diapers. 
Where: 7733 Hayvenhurst Ave., Van Nuys
When: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (March 21st, 9-2 PM)
Who: Families with kids from birth to pre-teens.
How: Just show up!  Get there early as a line can form out the door just to get in.
Cost: Free!
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Saturday, March 20 - BodyWise Conference Presented by the Junior League of Pasadena

BodyWise is a one day conference and expo for middle school girls and their caregivers and provides unique and innovative developmental learning experiences for girls in grades 6-8 and their parents/caregivers that positively impacts their lives and strengthens their personal foundations for the future.   BodyWise brings together experts in the field of adolescent development in order to provide girls and their caregivers with resources to combat the difficulties of this period of life. Fun and empowering topics include self-esteem, body image, effective communication, fitness, positive relationships, straight talk, internet guidelines, healthy eating and more.
Where: Westridge School 324 Madeline Dr., Pasadena
When: 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Who: Girls in grades 6-8 and their parents/caregivers.
Cost: $10 per person.  Seating is limited.  Register by March 15th.
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Saturday, March 20 - Budding Botanists: Plant a Pizza at Descanso Gardens

Children will plant their own, take-home pizza garden. Participants will also prepare a pizza to bake at home.
Where: Descanso Gardens Nature's Table 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Children 6-10 years.
How: Registration required 818-949-7980.
Cost: $12/child, for members only.
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Saturday, March 20 - Children's Cooking Class at the Langham Huntington Hotel

Pastry Chef John Quinn gives kids a colorful lesson on gum paste flowers and other decor.  Each class begins with a tour of the hotel's kitchen and safety lesson, and Chef Quinn will then teach the young aspiring chefs the art of recipe preparation, baking techniques and pastry presentation. Each child gets to bring home the day's recipes, a Langham branded apron and chef's hat.  This is a drop-off class; parents do not need to attend. 
Where: The Langham Huntington Hotel, 1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Kids cooking class offered on third Saturday of the month.)
Who: Children ages 6-12 years.
How: Reservations required.  Call 626.568.3900.  Space is limited to 10 children.
Cost: $80 per child.
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Saturday, March 20 - Flower Arranging for Children at Huntington: Bud Vases

Mr. and Mrs. Huntington always had elegant flowers in their home, and you can, too! Children will learn how to create a classic bud vase arrangement using roses and other fresh flowers and greenery in this hands-on workshop from the floral design team of Flower Duet.
Where: Huntington Gardens 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino
When: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Who: Children ages 7-12.
How: Call to make reservation: 626-405-2128.  Space is limited, so call soon!
Cost: $25 members, $30 non-members.
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Sunday, March 21 - Mother-Daughter Book Party & Speed Dating Event

Share your love of reading with your daughter and introduce her to seven authors. Find terrific book selections for your Mother/Daughter Book Club.  You will meet and talk with these authors: Carol Hughes, Victoria Forester, Amy Goldman Koss, Diane Leszezynski, Sally Nemeth, Heather Tomlinson, and Lisa Yee. Moms and their daughters will have an opportunity to sit with an author, discuss the book, ask a few questions and then switch to the next table to meet another author ... this ‘speed dating’ will take place until all the authors have had a chance to meet everyone.  It should be a lot of fun and hopefully encourage reading and stir the imagination.
Where: The Community Center of La Canada Flintridge 4469 Chevy Chase Dr., La Canada Flintridge
When: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Girls in 3rd- 6th grades and their mothers.
How: Reservations recommended. Tickets can be bought at door. Contact: Catherine Linka for more information. catherineL@flintridgebooks.com
Cost: $5 for mother-daughter combo.
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Free Storytimes In & Around Pasadena


MONDAYS

Location: Currant Baby & Mommy 289 E. Green St., Pasadena (in Paseo Colorado)
Start Time: 11:00 AM
Description: This is an excellent opportunity to get to know other parents and children in the Pasadena area as well as enjoy a morning out.

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 ...


Friday Storytimes


FRIDAYS

Location: Pasadena Public Library 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena DRW Auditorium (626) 744-4066
Start Time: 10:00 - 10:30 AM
Description: A 30-minute program with picture book stories on the big screen for ages 3-5.

Location: Glendale Central Library 222 E. Harvard St. Glendale (818) 548-2030
Start Time: 5:00 - 6:00 PM
Description: Spanish-English storytime for children.


Macaroni Made


Winter Sun Catcher

Add a little color to your windows.

Make color ice cubes by adding 1-2 drops of food coloring to the water in each section of a ice cube tray.  The colors will run together in the pan later so use complimentary colors.  Freeze the ice cubes completely.

Fill a round cake pound about 2/3 full with water.  To make a hole for a ribbon, set a plastic cup full of water in the pan.  Place the pan in the freezer for about an hour.  Put the colored ice cubes ...


Macaroni Music


I'm A Rock Star!

The most recent CD “I’m a Rock Star” by Joanie Leeds and the Nightlights is energetic, comforting, and musically diverse. Her insightful and thoughtful lyrics will open the door to talk about real life situations with your children and her warm voice makes the entire CD enjoyable to sing along to, dance to, or just listen to on your next errand.You can purchase this great CD at www.citykidmusic.com 
 
By Katherine Howard - Katherine is a cultural anthropologist with an amazing kid-connection, Katherine has spent her life surrounded ...

Saturday Storytimes


SATURDAYS

Location: Vroman’s Bookstore 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 449-5320
Start Time: 10:00 AM
Description: Story time for toddlers and preschoolers with Mr. Steve.

Location: Barnes & Noble, Burbank Town Center, 731 N San Fernando Blvd., Burbank
Start Time: 11:00 AM
Description: All little book lovers are welcome at this regular story time event. Please join us as we read the latest in children's titles as well as our classic favorites. Stories are followed by activities and refreshments.

Location: Pasadena Public Library 285 E. Walnut St ...


Thursday Storytimes


THURSDAYS

Location: Barnes & Noble, The Americana at Brand, 210 Americana Way, Glendale 3rd floor
Start Time: 7:00 PM
Description: All li'l book lovers are welcome to this fun story time! Please join us as we read the latest in children's titles as well as our classic favorites.

Location: Allendale Branch Library 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena (626) 744-7260
Start Time: 10:30 AM
Description: Come and enjoy stories and songs for children up to age 5. Children will listen to stories, watch a short movie and make ...


Tuesday Storytimes


TUESDAYS

Location: Vroman’s Hastings Branch 3729 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
Start Time: 10:00 - 10:30 AM
Description: Story time for toddlers and preschoolers.

Location: Pasadena Public Library 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena (626) 744-4066
Start Times: 9:30, 10:00, 11:00 AM
Description: Story time for infants, 0-17 months.

Location: Pasadena Public Library 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena (626) 744-4066
Start Time: 10:00 AM
Description: Story time for toddlers.

Location: Hill Ave. Branch Library 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena (626) 744-7264
Start Time: 10:30 - 11 ...


Wednesday Storytimes


WEDNESDAYS

Location: Vroman’s Bookstore 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
Start Time: 10:00 AM
Description: Story time for toddlers and preschoolers with Mr. Steve.

Location: Barnes & Noble, The Americana at Brand, 210 Americana Way, Glendale 3rd floor
Start Time: 11:00 AM
Description: All li'l book lovers are welcome to this fun story time. Please join us as we read the latest in children's titles as well as our classic favorites.

Location: Hastings Branch Library 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena
Start Time: 10:15 AM & 11 ...


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