Epic Race Events for Kids Age 7-15

I'm not sure what it is lately, but my son has decided he wants to "race". He and I even registered for the Ann Arbor Color Run despite my not having raced in 25 years! I secretly think he only wants the prize medals, but I won't deter him from health habits either and will train with him.

Is your child interested in racing? Perhaps you want to instill some healthy habits? Maybe you just want to kids to be outdoors? If so, then you might consider checking into a couple Epic Race events happening this summer. The events, for kids ages 7-15 include swimming events, running events, biking events and even events that combine several of these activities! All of the events help the kids learn to lead active, healthful lifestyles.

June 23: Tri Kids Tri - Kids length triathlon - The event should probably be "TRY"athalon since the event focus is on participation and not competition. Fun, safety, and spirit will be the priority during this multisport event. It does take into account age appropriate distances as well!  at the Waterloo Recreation Area (17030 Bush Rd., Chelsea) in Chelsea.

July 1: Firecracker Splash and Dash - Kids length aquathlon at the Fuller Pool in Ann Arbor. This fast paced event combines running and swimming.

The Zany Umbrella Circus Is Coming to Town!

You won't find elephants, animals or three rings at this circus, but instead the
Zany Umbrella Circus uses fire juggling, slack rope walking, and aerial
acrobatics in their one-of-a-kind magical show!

Catch the Zany Umbrella Circus when it returns to the Leslie Science and Nature Center (1831 Traver Rd., Ann Arbor) on Saturday, June 30 for two shows (11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.). Your kids will be amazed watching "Stories of the Season". Enjoy the magic storytelling as the performers highlight "the seasons and the natural world" through acrobatics on aerial fabric and trapeze, fire juggling, and slack rope walking during their unique street theater performance! 

"I want to tell you a bit more about the Zany Umbrella Circus because they are an incredible group. But they aren’t international for the typical reasons," said Susan Hutton, Development Director at the Leslie Science and Nature Center. "When the U.S. invaded Afghanistan, they went to Afghanistan and worked in Afghani orphanages as performers and teachers. They’ve made similar tours to Jordan and Ethiopia; They’re outstanding performers, and they’re outstanding people, too. They’re a terrific story on so many levels."

Tickets for this unforgettable event are $15/person or $50/family in advance or $17/person or $60/family at the door. Register online at the Leslie Science and Nature Center website.

Fun Health Fair Today at Packard Health

Today from 12:00 - 5;00 p.m., parents can take their children to participate in the 34th annual health fair at Packard Health (3174 Packard Rd., Ann Arbor).

Families can expect to find a fun event filled with activities for kids including bubbles, line dancing, games and music as well as finding free sports physicals, immunizations, dental screenings, car seats, digital thermometers and books for the first 300 kids.

The yearly event is put on to promote safety with free bike helmets donated by Thomson Reuters and free car seats and car seat checks from Safe Kids Huron Valley.

Mother's Day Craft Projects

Kids create Mom's favorite handcrafted treasures
for Mother's Day!

Stop in from May 5-8 at Tree Town Toys to make Mom (or grandma) her own birdhouse! This easy pre-assembled birdhouse craft allows the kids to paint and glitter to their hearts content. This extra special project only costs $6.00. And if the birdhouse project seems too expensive, wooden frames are also available for decorating for $3.00.This is a "while supplies last" project so be sure to create yours soon!

Area Michael's stores (3655 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor and 41904 Ford Rd., Canton) have several Make-It Take-It events planned where kids can create a customized Mother's Day gift. That means no mess in the home and a semi-surprise for mom so long as dad take the kids to participate. All of their events are "while supplies last" events. Check out the Michael's Facebook page Mother's Day project video to see what's in store; The video has inspired me to take the kids to the store next week... I love the t-shirt necklace!

• April 30: 10:00 a.m. - noon with the purchase of a T-shirt or apron, kids can create Mom a one-of-a-kind wearable. This is geared for ages 3 and up.
• May 1: 1:00-3:00 p.m. Teens ages 14 and up can stop by to make Mom handcrafted jewelry by watching one of two in-store demos.
• May 3: 6:00-8:00 p.m. purchase a flower and create a special Mother's Day card. This is geared for ages 3 and up. 

Several area libraries also have great free programs and craft projects happening. Bring Mom to the Ypsilanti District Library (5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti) on May 2 or May 5, 6:00-8:00 p.m. and have your picture taken on a cute back-drop, then have it printed as a fun remembrance of your beautiful relationship! The program also is available on May 7, 3:00-5:00 p.m. and the YDL Michigan branch (229 West Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti) and YDL Superior branch (8975 MacArthur Blvd., Ypsilanti) 2:00-4:00 p.m. or stop by the Ann Arbor District Library (Pittsfield Branch - 2359 Oak Valley Dr., Ann Arbor) on May 7 to make a Mother's Day Card from 11:00 a.m. - noon!

Also on May 7, kids ages 5-12, can head to the local Home Depot (3300 Carpenter Rd., Ypsilanti or 45900 Michigan Ave., Canton) to make Mom a special Kids Workshop Tulip Planter from 9:00 a.m. - noon. - of course they'll have to head home to paint it, but i am certain Dad can guide them through this part of the process!

Mom will be grateful for the break as well as appreciative of the wonderful, thoughtful Mother's Day gifts designed especially for her!

Ann Arbor Learning Express Rubber Band Trading Event

Over the holiday weekend I was introduced to the latest kids crazy - Silly Bandz. I had heard about them, and thought my son might like them as an inexpensive souveneer of his weekend up north. Sure enough he was already familiar with these glorified rubber band bracelets that all the kids were wearing. He purchased a pack, with my mother purchasing a second pack of red-white-and-blue glow in the dark "Monster Bands" (knock offs).

So what do we do with them now that we have them? Well he can always just wear them, and in fact was taught a neat trick to combine two colors... OR he can trade them!

This Saturday, July 10, at the Learning Express store (2465 West Stadium Blvd.) in Ann Arbor, there is a Rubber Band Trading Event at 2:00 p.m. - Bands will be displayed, and traded and of course many fun and colorful styles and shapes will be available for purchase!

Take the Family on a tour of a Working Mill: Learn About Eating Local!

I found a neat opportunity for local families when researching another article.  Have you ever wanted to teach your children about the entire process of getting food to your table - Call it teaching them the farm to fork method!  On April 11 from 2-3:30 p.m. you have that opportunity by touring the Westwind Milling Company (8572 Silver Lake Rd., Linden 48451).

Gather the family and take a family-friendly, hands-on field trip to historic Westwind Milling Co. in picturesque Linden (30-40 minutes north of Ann Arbor up US-23), where you’ll learn about the milling process, the history of the mill, and the significance of eating local food. The cost os very family friendly as well at only $5 per person, however children under 5 get in FREE.  In addition to the tour, the price includes Westwind’s bran or nonbran muffins and organic apple cider and children will also receive an activity book.

This event is sponsored by the Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum, so please register at MBGNA and pay at the mill.

Barnes and Noble host a fundraiser for the Ann Arbor Recreation and Education scholarship fund

This Sunday, November 22 from 11:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m. the Barnes & Nobel (3235 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor) is teaming up to host a fundaiser to raise funds for the Ann Arbor Recreation and Education scholarship fund. For all purchases made that day, a portion of the sales will be donated to the special fund providing Ann Arbor area youth who may not otherwise be able to afford a summer camp experience.

Last summer in Ann Arbor, Harry Potter Camp, Star Wars Camp and Writing Camp were in full effect with many local campers creating memories to last a lifetime. Some of these same excited campers will be attending the event, volunteering their day, to share the fruits of their camp experiences on stage for the enjoyment of the entire community.

The Star Wars kids will host a "Force Tournament" sharing popular songs with their all original Star Wars lyrics and Azkabanian Idol songs will also (Harry Potter, American Idol!) be performed. Excited young wizards will also be hosting a Spell Casting Tournament during the event. To bring the family-fun to a close, Writing Camp Authors will read their original/illustrated, “Award Winning” books and poem during a special “open mic” event.

Please bring your family to this special area event. As it is our aim to connect creative Ann Arbor young people to an aesthetic and appreciative audience, all of Ann Arbor is encouraged to come out and show their support for our young writers and performers and to the special kids who will benefit from the Rec. & Ed. Scholarship Fund!

This Week: Halloween Events in Ann Arbor

There are MANY great events happening this Halloween weekend in Ann Arbor... Hope to see you all out and about!

Halloween Party & Movie
Friday, Oct. 30, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Ann Arbor Senior Center
Cost: $5 - Pre-registration by Oct. 28.
Ages:

Children of the Earth Club
Saturday, Oct. 31, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. at the Leslie Science and Nature Center (1831 Traver Road, 734.997.1553).
Enjoy Nature songs, environmentally-themed games and home action plans that will be led by singer and environmental educator Joe Reilly.
Cost: $8 per person; adult not required for kids to participate.
Ages: Second graders and up.

Halloween Skate
Saturday, Oct 31, 1 – 2:30 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park Ice Arena (2150 Jackson Road, 734.794.6235).
Skate to the spooky sounds of Halloween. Best costume prizes awarded.
Cost: (General Admission Prices)
Residents:Adults - $5, Youth/Senior - $4
Non-residents:Adults -$6, Youth/Senior - $5
Skate Rental - $3
Ages: Appropriate for all ages.

Register Now for Ypsilanti Township Parks & Recreation Programs

My friends at the Ypsilanti Township Parks & Recreation department wanted to let everyone know that registration is now open for the Winter/Spring 2010 Recreation Guide. Stop into the building, sign-up through the mail or even sign up online!

There are some great programs and classes for children and teens including
basketball, floor hockey, dodge ball, golf, soccer, baseball and t-ball, many art programs, open play times and many other fun winter and spring activities for Ypsilanti Township residents and supporters from surrounding communities.

Antique Truck Show in Ypsilanti

There will be trucks of every kind rolling into Riverside Park (5 E. Cross Street) tomorrow for the annual Antique Truck Show - It's a great addition to the area's already famous antique car shows & events. Unique antique and classic trucks will be displayed by the American Truck Historical Society.

Bring your family, kids of all ages enjoy looking at cool old trucks!

The Search for Ann Arbor's Pirate Bounty!

Ahoy Matey's! Ever wanted to venture into forbidden waters with treasure map in hand on an elusive treasure hunt? It's time to set sail for October's annual Ann Arbor Treasure Hunt.

The Ann Arbor Treasure Hunt takes participating “Pirates” on a voyage through Ann Arbor’s stormy and wild seas to the unique local shops and restaurants that make Ann Arbor a must-experience ‘Port of Call’. The goal of the hunt, which began in 2008, is to draw an audience to downtown Ann Arbor, into locally owned shops and restaurants. Last year, pirates and pirate teams of all sizes took part in this fun month-long event. There were families, co-workers and adult groups that all ‘took up arms' and heaved the Jolly Roger to follow the trail around town in hopes of being the lucky pirate team.



Beginning October 1 and running the entire month, pirates with treasure maps in hand will be guided to participating shops, restaurants and galleries in search of the treasure – A solution to a clue. Once located, the pirates must "capture" the clue on film. After capturing all of the solutions, they must submit their photo proof and treasure map for a chance to win the bounty - a chest filled with items that have been collected from the participating Ann Arbor shops. The treasure hunt is a FREE family friendly event open to everyone interested in pillaging to win lavish pirate loot!

The Ann Arbor Treasure Hunt was created as a fun local event offered to families and individuals in the area looking for an autumn adventure. Last year over 20 shops, galleries, and restaurants participated.

Ye been chosen to venture on the high seas of Ann Arbor this October. So strap on ye sea legs, set sail and give yourself the chance to win a treasure chest filled with lavish pirate loot. The Annual Ann Arbor Treasure Hunt runs from October 1-31st. For additional information, or to learn how you can participate in the hunt, visit the Ann Arbor Treasure Hunt website, or contact Samantha Nielsen Misiak at 734-657-4940. You can also find the Ann Arbor Treasure Hunt on Facebook!

Sign up for Pittsfield Township Parks & Rec Programs

The folks at the Pittsfield Township Parks & Recreation department wanted me to let you know that they have released their fall program guide, to view and sign up for any of their great programs please visit the township website.

Washtenaw County Cider Mills & Orchards

There are many great apple orchards and cider mills throughout Michigan (A few of my personal favorites from growing up are - the Franklin Cider Mill, Parmenter's Cider Mill and Uncle John's Cider Mill) to be enjoyed this time of year - Actually I can not think of one that I didn't like! In the interest of thinking locally however, I have compliled a list of cider mills and apple orchards in Washtenaw County. If I missed any, please feel free to comment and I will add them to the list.

Dexter

Berry Hill Farm
734-475-1516
12835 N. Territorial Road
Dexter, Michigan 48130

Dexter Cider Mill
734-426-8531
3685 Central Street
Dexter, Michigan 48130

Jenny's Farm Stand
Read about Jenny's on my website

734-424-3431
8366 Island Lake Road
Dexter, Michigan 48130

Lesser Farms and Orchard

734 426-0606

12651 Island Lake Road

Dexter, Michigan 48130

The Frosty Apple

734-426-2863

6920 Walsh

Dexter, Michigan 48130

Manchester

Alber Orchard & Cider Mill

734-428-9310

13011 Bethel Church Road

Manchester, Michigan 48158

Milan

Wasem Fruit Farm
734-482-2342
6580 Judd Road
Milan, Michigan 48160

Salem

Obstbaum Orchards and Cider Mill

248-349-5569

9252 Currie Road

Salem, Michigan 48175

Saline

Lutz Orchard
734-429-5145
11030 Macon Road
Saline, Michigan 48176

Windy Ridge Orchard and Cider Mill
734-429-7111
9375 Saline-Milan Road
Saline, Michigan 48176

Ypsilanti

Wiard's Orchards and County Fair
734-482-7744
5565 Merritt Road

Ypsilanti, MI 48197

Enjoy America's First State Fair

Growing up, one of my favorite end-of-summer activities was going to the Michigan State Fair. I know it sounds silly, but I actually enjoyed seeing all of the animals the 4H kids raised, the horse shows, the entertainment, the giant carved butter sculpture and of course the midway and rides. I even liked the pig races! I grew up just a bit up Woodward, and I suppose I took for granted that the fair would always be around. I am not sure why, but last week I was a bit shocked to hear that this might be the end of the fair due to the economy.

The end of the Michigan State Fair?! That can't be. I'll never have the chance to win a blue ribbon for my prize winning recipe or overly large vegetable...

That being said, I haven't taken my children to the state fair since they were born. I suppose once I moved to this side of town we've only attended the Wayne County and Washtenaw County Fairs, but not the grand daddy of fairs in Michigan. I'd hate to loose this great tradition, though, so I would like to encourage all of my Ann Arbor friends and families to attend the fair this weekend if possible. I know it's a 30 minute drive to the fairgrounds for us, but really it's worth the trip!

The Michigan State Fair runs through Sept. 7, 2009. We'll be there sometime this week to support the fair for future generations to enjoy and hope to see you there as well. Come and enjoy America's first state fair!