Macaroni Kid
Pasadena
Macaroni Kid   Editions

From a One Income Family to a NO Income Family


Part 3

I did find myself being very supportive of my husband when he lost his job. I urged him to take this time to surf more, play tennis, and go fishing. He is the kind of guy that rarely took his full vacation, so now he is forced to. Luckily, he is very good at what he does and his old bosses were going to bat for him and making lots of calls and trying to find him another job. The job market for his kind of work does not look ...

Nickelodeon’s Storytime Live! @Nokia Theater LA


Win a Family 4-Pack of Tickets for October 16th @ 10:30 AM show

See some of your favorite Nickolodeon stars including Dora, The Backyardigans, The Wonder Pets!, and Ni Hao, Kai-lan. Preschoolers and their parents can see their favorite Nick Jr. characters come to life in one action-packed on-stage adventure hosted by Nick Jr.'s Moose A. Moose and Zee.
 
Each segment of Storytime Live! takes kids and their families on a different brand-new adventure, whether its leaping into Fairytale Land with Dora and Sleeping Boots, journeying through Filthingham with The Backyardigans, hopping into Wonderland with the Wonder Pets! or jumping on clouds ...


TV Turn Off Week


Are you up for the challenge?

TV Turn Off Week is September 19-25 and is nationally endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the National Education Association, and the American Medical Association.

Two statistics stand out for me when I researched this event:

1)    Children six and under spend an average of two hours a day using screen media, about the same amount of time they spend playing outside, and well over the amount they spend reading or being read to (39 minutes). --Zero to Six: Electronic Media in the Lives of Infants, Toddlers and Preschoolers, Kaiser Family Foundation and the Children's Digital Media Centers, 2003.

2)    The more TV preschoolers watch, the less well they do academically in the first grade; also, The more TV preschoolers watch, the less well-socialized they are in the first grade. --Burton, Sydney, James Calonico and Dennis McSeveney, "Effects of Preschool Television Watching on First-Grade Children," Journal of Communication, Summer 1979

As a general rule, we do not turn on the TV during the school week, and we try to limit it on the weekend.  My family enjoys watching sports on TV together and my kids enjoy various shows on Nick Jr., PBS, etc.  Every time the TV is on, I cringe because I think of the inactivity that watching TV engenders. 

I watched a lot of TV as a child because I didn’t have any brothers or sisters around. It was a companion.  My children play together and seem to enjoy each other’s company. I’m thrilled that they get along and can play unsupervised for periods of time. 

If you’re struggling with getting back to a routine now that school has resumed and keeping the TV off is one of your goals, TV Turn Off Week could be just the thing to jumpstart that routine in your household. 

  • How much TV does your child watch? 
  • What will you do when you keep the TV off for the week? 
  • Do you let your kids watch TV when friends are over?

I challenge you, Macaroni Kid readers, to not turn on the TV during this week.  Make a statement in your family and with your friends. Are you up to the challenge?  I want to hear about. Email me [email protected]

--Lauren


This Week's Picks:


September 18th through September 19th

Saturday, September 18 - Children's Festival & Grand Opening of Kuki's Playshop in Burbank

A brand new indoor playground & boutique opens in Burbank this Saturday and invites you to help celebrate.  Kuki's Playshop is an early childhood play center and boutique store that supports imagination and learning through play. The Playshop is home to Kukiland Adventures, an interactive play-based early childhood program created for children ages 1-3 and their parents/guardians. Come by and check out this new venue.  There will be character meet & greet, raffles, toymaking workshops, performances, storytelling, food, and specialty vendors including Discovery Toys, Spotlight Baby, Revival Vintage Design, Whiteyboard, & Bare Bottoms Inc.
Where: Kuki's Playshop 1036 N Lake St., Burbank
When: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Who: Families with young children.
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE! See coupon below for 10% discount on in-store merchandise.

Saturday, September 18 - Family Evening: Stargazing @Huntington Gardens

Spend an evening with the Sidewalk Astronomers exploring the stars, planets, and constellations of the night sky. A variety of telescopes will be set up on the lawn for viewing, and science buffs can also tour the astronomy exhibits in the Library’s Dibner Hall. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Where: Huntington Gardens 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino
When: 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Who: Families.
How: Tickets: 626-405-2128.
Cost: Price per person: Members: $12. Non-Members: $15. Children 2 and under free.

Sunday, September 19 - South Pasadena Fire & Police Open House

  •  FREE Child Fingerprinting & Photographs
  •  FREE Giveaway Items
  •  Police Canines
  •  Helicopters
  •  Police & Fire Station Tours
  •  Alarm & Safety Information
  •  Hot Rod & Classic Car Show
  • "Star Car Central" Movie and Television Car Club
  •  Fire Engines
  •  Police & Fire Demonstrations
  •  Police Cars
  • + MUCH MUCH MORE!
Where: SP Police/Fire Department 1422 Mission St., South Pasadena, CA
When: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Who: Families.
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE!
For more info: Fore more information visit www.ci.south-pasadena.ca.us or call (626)403-7285.

This Week's Calendar:


September 16th through September 21st

Thursday, September 16 - Open House for Junior League of Pasadena

Come learn about the of Junior League of Pasadena at our New Member Open House. Learn about community service opportunities in the League and what it means to be a member.
Where: JLP Headquarters, 149 S. Madison Ave., Pasadena
When: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Who: Women in Pasadena area who are interested in volunteering.  Both working and stay-at-home moms are welcome.
How: RSVP here.
Cost: FREE!

Friday, September 17 - Twilight Night at Kidpsace: Pirates!

Ahoy matey! Arrgh! Get a tattoo, make your own sword and speak like
 a pirate while having a swash-buckling adventure at Kidspace! Dress
 like a pirate for the Kidspace costume contest and see if you can win
 some booty. Enjoy BBQ available for purchase. 
Where: Kidspace 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena
When: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: Children of all ages and families.
How: Just show up!
Cost: $5 admission fee; $4 for members.

Saturday, September 18 through Sunday, September 19 - Pacific Astromony and Telescope Show @Pasadena Convention Center

Pacific Astromony and Telescope Show will bring together dozens of exhibitors, clubs, and presenters.  Space explorers, national astronomy-related organizations, and well-known authors will be sharing their experiences both days.Be part of the most exciting astronomy and telescope show on the West Coast.  Check out all the telescopes and discover the one that's right for you. Examine books, star charts, and astronomical accessories across a range of prices. Enjoy indoor events including talks by scientists, observers, and a very talented artist.  And much much more...
Where: Pasadena Convention Center 300 E Green St., Pasadena
When: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (On Sunday open from 9:00 to 3:00)
Who: Families interested in space, telescopes, astoronomy, stars, etc.
How: Purchase tickets at the door.
Cost: On the day of the event at the box office a ticket will cost $20.00 per day. Youth (15 and under) accompanied by a paid adult are admitted free without ticket on the day of event.  Students (16 and over with a current valid student ID) may purchase tickets for $5.00.

Saturday, September 18 - Ladybug Picnic with Queen Laura

Queen Laura from Dramagination creates a royal adventure bringing the beloved children's book" Ladybug Girl " to life. We will create the journey of a plucky little girl who sets off to make a magical day all to herself proving you just need your imagination and a pair of wings to have fun. Please join us for dress-up, make-believe, a ladybug craft, and a light picnic for each girl and her grown up.
Where: Paintbox Kids 1383 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena
When: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM (Sign-up early - spaces fill quickly!)
Who: Ages 3-7 years.
How: Register by calling 626.808.0330
Cost: $45 per person
For more info: www.paintboxkids.com

Saturday, September 18 - Flower Arranging Class for Children @ Huntington: Smiling Sunflowers

Sunflowers have a way of making us smile. Why not return the favor? Budding floral designers will make sunflowers even sunnier by adding some cheerful touches of arts-and-crafts whimsy in this workshop presented by Flower Duet.
Where: Huntington Gardens & Library 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino
When: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: Ages 7–12.
How: Call NOW!  Classes fill-up.  Registration: 626-405-2128.
Cost: Fee includes one accompanying adult. Members: $25. Non-Members: $30.
For more info: http://huntington.org/

Saturday, September 18 - Special Dance Performance @Pacific Asia Museum

Visiting artist Sumiko Miki performs traditional Balinese dance in the Courtyard. Sumiko was born in Japan and started traditional Balinese dance in 1989, taught by the late Kazuko Tsujimura who was a leader in the field. She resides at the Royal Palace in Bali, Indonesia and spends most of the year teaching traditional Balinese dance.
Where: Pacific Asia Museum
When: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: Families.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free for members, included with museum admission for non-members.

Sunday, September 19 - Bookworms Free Storytelling @ the Arboretum: It's Refreshing - Drinks from Nature

Come explore The Arboretum Library and our great story trees!  Enjoy plant & nature stories and a nature project or adventure.  It is an indoor/ outdoor program that will go rain or shine, so please dress appropriately.  This is a FREE program for members and free with admission for non-members.
Where: LA County Arboretum 301 N. Baldwin A ve., Arcadia
When: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM (Next month: Bombardiers, Helicopters and Beans)
Who: Children ages 3-8.
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE with museum admission.

Tuesday, September 21 - Kids Club & Kids Eat Free @ The Americana: Egg

Coined as Kindie Rock by some, they are fast, fun, educational, and entertaining. This week, Egg is what the kid in us always wants and needs, more Rock-N-Roll. Exciting music that is USDA kid and grown up approved. 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: 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!

Teen Scene:


Monday, September 20 - Smart Chicks Kick It Tour! @ Vroman's Pasadena

Some of your favorite authors have gotten together and organized their own author event tour, just the way they want it. They picked the cities and the authors and luckily, Vroman's is one of their chosen stops!!  All of these exciting authors will be on hand to speak a small bit about themselves and then on to your questions! Everything you've ever wanted to know about your favorite series or character will be answered. Finally, mix and mingle with the authors and get your favorite titles signed. This is sure to be an exciting and fun evening!
Where: Vroman's Boostore 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
When: 6:00 PM
Who: Young adult book readers
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE!

Plan Ahead:


September 25th through October 16th

Saturday, September 25 - Annual Coastal Clean-up Day

On Saturday, September 25th, from 9:00am until 12noon, over 14,000 volunteers from all over Los Angeles will take action to rid our beaches and inland waterways of unsightly and harmful debris. Coastal Cleanup Day (CCD) is an international event with over 90 countries around the world participating, making it one of the largest volunteer efforts on the planet! Last year, over 14,000 volunteers from Los Angeles County joined together to pick up over 300,000 pounds of trash and recyclables from our beaches and waterways. This year, lets all take the challenge to do more than that!
Where: Various beaches, rivers, parks, etc. in So. California Find one of over 50 cleanup sites throughout Los Angeles County.
When: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Everyone!
How: Register now to participate.
Cost: FREE!

Saturday, September 25 - Family Fun Classes @the Arboretum: Root Beer Making

Join us as we celebrate Oktoberfest at The Arboretum.  Learn the science behind root beer making as you make your own batch to take home.
Where: LA County Arboretum, the Oak Room 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Pasadena
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Families.
How: Pre-registration required for all classes. Call 626.821.4623 or 626.821.5897.
Cost: $12/family for members; $14/family for non-members.  Enrollment includes admission to The Arboretum.

Saturday, September 25 - 3rd Annual Day of Dance @Kidspace

Lineage Dance Company presents the Third Annual Day of Dance at Kidspace. Children of all ages and abilities can try  hip-hop, ballet, modern dance and more. No experience necessary, just bring your dancing (tennis) shoes. Also, enjoy special performances by Pasadena's Lineage Dance Company.  Children of all abilities are welcome to participate.  An American Sign Language Interpreter will be available for deaf and hard of hearing children.  Bethune Theatredanse specializes in dance for children with different abilities.  All are welcome!  See website for a schedule of performances.
Where: Kidspace Museum 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena Adjacent to the Rose Bowl Stadium Free parking in Rose Bowl Lot I
When: 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Who: Children of all ages and their families.
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE with museum admission: $10 per person, children under 12 mos. FREE!

Saturday, September 25 - Jedi Light Saber Training @Paintbox Kids

Students learn the way of the Jedi as they train as "younglings". Play Jedi games, learn basic stances and footwork and short fight sequences to perform for each other in this class taught by Swordplay.
Where: Paintbox Kids 1383 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena
When: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Children 5-8 years.
How: Register for workshops by calling 626-808-0330.
Cost: $40 per person.

Saturday, September 25 - Bestselling Children’s Author Nancy Tillman @ Once Upon a Time Bookstore

NY Times Bestselling children’s artist Nancy Tillman will be reading from her latest picture book “Wherever You Are: My Love Will Find You.”  Her beautifully rendered, mixed-media books are a testament to unconditional love for children.  Other titles include “On the Night You Were Born,” “It's Time to Sleep, My Love” and “The Spirit of Christmas.”
Where: Once Upon a Time Bookstore 2207 Honolulu Ave., Montrose
When: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Who: Families.
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE!
For more info: Call 818-248-9668 or  http://onceupona.com/pages/calendar.htm

Saturday, September 25 - Pasadena Symphony & POPS @Rose Bowl

The POPS issue you a backstage pass to the nostalgic sounds of Old Hollywood and the glitz and glamour of the New. Explore the artistic and musical geniuses that connect films with their audiences through the magic of music. Jodi Benson, the voice of the Little Mermaid, will enchant you with songs from Titanic, The Wizard of Oz, Nine and other blockbusters. The orchestra will sweep you away with beloved film moments by Henry Mancini, Jerry Goldsmith and John Williams including a special tribute to Star Wars. We’ll provide the POPcorn!
Where: Lawn adjacent to the Rose Bowl (Area H), Pasadena
When: 5:30 PM (Gates open for picnicking & Kidpsace activities at 5:30 PM; concert starts at 7:30 PM.)
Who: Families.
How: Purchase online PasadenaSymphony-Pops.org or call 626.793.7172. Gates open for picnicking and Kidspace activities at 5:30pm
Lawn patrons may bring low back chairs and/or blankets
Cost: Single tickets range from $25-$90
For more info: For more information about Hooray for Hollywood! visit PasadenaSymphony-Pops.org or call 626.793.7172.

Sunday, September 26 - Pasadena Humane Society's 12th Annual Wiggle Waggle Walk

An estimated 2,000 people and their dogs will enjoy a 3-K walk around the Rose Bowl, followed by Muttley Crew's dog agility show, demonstrations by the Pasadena and Glendale K-9 Units, a variety of pet product booths, paw-tapping music, and contests, including cutest mutt, best trick and a pet/owner look-alike. Jeff Michael of Fox-11 News will serve as master of ceremonies throughout the day. You do not need to have a dog to participate.  Walk begins at 9:00 AM, Fun Fair (games for kids, dogs, food for purchase, etc.) opens for 9:30 AM.  See website for schedule.
Where: Rose Bowl Pasadena
When: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM (Registration begins at 8:00 AM)
Who: Families.
How: You can walk as an individual, form a team, join a team, or just show up on race day.
Cost: FREE! No registration fee to participate for the Wiggle Waggle Walk, but please - help support the animals by donating or raising funds from family, friends, neighbors and co-workers. The money raised by Wiggle Waggle Walk participants helps to save the lives of animals. The more money you raise, the more you help the animals (and the more treats you earn!)

Sunday, September 26 - Stories in the Afternoon @Norton Simon: Back-to-School

Hear tales about the ABCs of being a student, and then design your own book bag in front of Francisco de Zurbarán’s Portrait of Fray Diego Deza, c. 1630.
Where: Norton Simon Museum of Art 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
When: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: Families.
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE with museum admission. Adults $8; Patrons 18 and under: FREE; Students with valid ID: FREE.

Sunday, October 10 - Pasadena's Annual ARTWeekend ARTPerformance

The Pasadena ARTWeekend ends with ARTPerformance, Old Pasadena’s Cultural Dance Festival, on Sunday, Oct 10th, where dances from around the world will be performed. This multicultural festival of movement will feature both professionals and amateurs, children and adults, and will take place at Levitt Pavilion and other locations around Old Pasadena. Following each performance, event attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a short lesson on dances from that culture.
Where: Levitt Pavilion 85 E. Holly Street, Pasadena
When: 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Who: Everyone!
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE!

Saturday, October 16 through Sunday, October 17 - Nickolodeon's Storytime Live! Tour @Staples Center

Storytime Live! is the first-ever live family theatrical tour featuring characters from four of the current top-rated preschool shows on television today: Dora the Explorer, The Backyardigans, The Wonder Pets! and Ni Hao, Kai-lan.  Preschoolers and their parents can see their favorite Nick Jr. characters come to life in one action-packed on-stage adventure hosted by Nick Jr.'s Moose A. Moose and Zee.
Where: Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE  777 Chick Hearn Court, Los Angeles
When: 10:30 AM (10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 16; 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. on Sunday, October 17)
Who: Preschoolers and their parents, grandparents, or and/or caregivers.
How: Purchase online.
Cost: $67.00 - $29.50 for single tickets, depending on seat locations.

Disney on Ice Skates to Ontario


Disney On Ice presents Mickey & Minnie’s Magical Journey takes audiences on a fun-filled tour to four exciting destinations filled with favorite Disney friends. With Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse as tour guides, guests will visit the enchanting worlds of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Lilo & Stitch and Peter Pan.  

The stage will be filled with music and magic in every scene including an enchanting undersea kingdom with Ariel and Sebastian, a jungle adventure in the African Pride Lands with Simba and Nala, a Hawaiian luau with ...


Events for Moms


Paintbox Kids is hosting TWO fun events for moms:

1) Stampin' Up! independent demonstrator, Rose Borges is excited to share many great project ideas for Halloween and Fall!  The kids are back in school so let's get together and create some projects for the upcoming holidays!

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 17th 10am-1:00

WHO: Moms, Grandmas, Aunts

WHERE: Paintbox Kids 1383 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena

HOW: Call Paintbox Kids to sign up at 626-808-0330

COST: The cost of the workshop is $50.00 which includes $25 credit to purchase "Stampin ...


Kuki's Playshop Grand Opening


Kuki's Playshop opens this Saturday.  Print this coupon and receive 10% off in-store merchandise and Kukiland Adventureland Programs. 

Macaroni Goodies


Easy Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

Here is a moist bread recipe to use up all your garden zucchini, and the kids won't even know!

Ingredients:

  • 3 1/4 cups flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. ground nutmeg
  • 2 tsp. baking soda
  • 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
  • 3 cups white sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 eggs, beaten
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 1 tsp. lemon juice
  • 2 cups grated zucchini
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup walnuts or pecans, optional

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350. Spray 2 loaf pans with non-stick spray. Combine ...


Nutcracker Auditions


Performers 5-18 years welcome

Attention future toy soldiers, gingersnaps, and dancing candy canes!  The Red Chair Children’s Production Company in Burbank is holding open auditions for young performers ages 5 to 18 for its annual production of The Nutcracker. Boys and girls active in the performing arts are encouraged to audition for this lavishly staged holiday classic ballet. 

WHAT: Auditions for The Nutcracker (Alex Theater in Glendale) will take place Sunday, September 26. Open audition schedule for Sunday, September 26 is: ages 5 at 10:00 am; ages 6-7 at 10:30 am ...


Parenting Expert Returns to Pasadena


Noël Janis-Norton returns to Pasadena to offer her popular, "First Steps to Calmer Easier, Happier Parenting" classes this October.  I had the opportunity to attend Noël's classes last February and I was so impressed with her techniques because her straight forward, easy-to-remember steps to get kids to listen the first time asked actually worked!  I was given the set of CDs to l listen to and passed them on to every member of my family (grandparents included). 

I'm thrilled she's coming back to offer these ...


Wiggles & Giggles Consignment 3-Day Sale


1,000s of new & gently used items at half of retail!

Wiggles & Giggles Consignment 3-DAY SALE

Come and shop everything you need

for Babies and Kids from Newborn to Size 14

Thousands of new & gently-used items

Glendora Promenade

1315 S. Grand Ave.

in Glendora

Friday, September 24 – Sunday, September 26

Fri, Sept. 24 VIP Pre-Sale 5pm – 8pm GOODIE BAGS!

Don't have time to be a Consignor or Volunteer? 

We sell VIP Pre-Sale Passes so that you can shop the night before

we open to the public. Visit our website to purchase your Pass.

Sat, Sept. 25 9am – 7pm GOODIE BAGS ...


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