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Read Across America Day : Dr. Seuss Giveaway

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All across the country libraries will be gearing up for the 19th Annual Read Across America Day. It’s celebrated today, March 2nd, to mark the birthday of an author who has helped generations of children learn to read, Theodor Seuss Geisel, also known as Dr. Seuss. The day of awareness was organized by the National Education Association (NEA) to promote literacy in children and young adults.

ReadAcrssAmrca-banner-2015

“Every year on NEA’s Read Across America Day, the imaginations of children across the country are ignited when they open up a good book,” said NEA President Lily Eskelsen García. “While we take a fun and lighthearted approach to our Read Across America celebrations, we do so with a serious purpose in mind: to encourage a love of reading.”

 Read Across America Day brings attention to the pure joy and power of reading, and connects the world as a community of readers.

“This national celebration is not just about one hour or one day of reading, it is about cultivating a lifetime of good reading habits that will translate into academic success,” added Eskelsen García. “NEA’s Read Across America brings students, parents, educators, and the entire community together to share the joy of reading.”

read-across-america-day1

Reading aloud as a family is not only fun but also has many benefits…

Benefits of using read alouds:

One of the most important things adults can do in preparing children for success in reading is to read aloud with them.

  • Listeners build listening and comprehension skills through discussion during and after reading.
  • Listeners increase their vocabulary foundation by hearing words in context.
  • Listeners improve their memory and language skills as they hear a variety of writing styles and paraphrase their understanding.
  • Listeners develop individual interests in a broad variety of subjects and they develop imagination and creativity: what better way to build skills which foster inquiry?

Read to your child

Reading aloud to your children will not only give them a solid reading foundation, but it will also help them discover the joy of reading.

It’s never too early (or too late) to start reading aloud to your child. One thing we can do to kick-start the road to reading is simply to read to our children and read to them often. Discuss what you have read with your child and ask questions before, during and after your reading sessions. Create a reading nook in your home and commit to reading aloud at least once daily. Keep books readily available and take them with you when you go. Reading aloud can take place anytime, anywhere.

Make reading fun

There are many different activities that will help a child build a strong reading foundation. Mastering letters and matching lowercase letters with their sound is very helpful when a child is learning to read phonetically. Let your reader make letters out of Play-Doh, whipped topping, shaving cream, sprinkles or sand. If they are learning sight words, they can create beginning sight words with noodles or pipe cleaners.

Be the example

Monkey see, monkey do. The best example we can give to our child is to show them our love of reading. It’s one thing for us to tell a child they must read each day, it’s another for them to see us reading each day.

Enjoy the journey

There might be days when you feel as though your child will never learn to read — it can be a daunting task at times. Remind yourself that you are giving your child a gift that will truly last them a lifetime. Embrace the struggles with the lightbulb moments and enjoy making sweet memories along the way.

 EVENT:

 
Read Across America
Celebrate “Read Across America” and Dr. Suess’ birthday at Eden Park! Children ages 6-9 will read One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish and make their own versions of each fish in the book.

 
Wednesday, March 02, 2016
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Eden Park – Storytime Room
 

Giveaway:

Cat in the Hat Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Black History Month in Baton Rouge

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Though February is already a busy holiday month with celebrations of both Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras, it is also Black History Month and a time we can really use to educate our children about the great African-American leaders in our community and around the world. This year I want to encourage you to not only teach your kids about black history in America, but about everyone from ancient African rulers to modern day history makers in our own state. Obviously slavery and the Civil Rights Movement are both key pieces of the story, but there is much more richness and diversity to be told in the regards to black history.

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Activitist Shaun King (who has a degree in African-American studies and whose wife is an award-winning educator) suggests two different approaches to teaching Black History Month. First, beginning with teaching about pre-historic South Africa or early African Kingdoms to show the true depth and beauty of blackness. Or by starting in present day and moving backwards in time, introducing children to healthy, relevant, modern examples of black leaders before moving through slavery and then back to Africa. 

Clearly Louisiana has a deep background in regards to slavery and civil rights, and it’s extremely, extremely important that we educate our kids about these periods of our history. Our children need to learn from our past so we do not repeat the same mistakes, and they need to develop honor and respect for the many people who overcame seemingly insurmountable odds and helped make things better. For example, did you know that the first bus boycott was held right here in Baton Rouge by a group of black citizens fighting the segregated seating system? And what about Ruby Bridges, the first African-American student to attend an all-white public school in the American South, just a few miles below us in New Orleans?

But in addition to those lessons, let’s also include stories of local black artists, inventors and leaders who have contributed to the greatness of our community and our world. Let’s teach about ancient African rulers who managed thriving economies and cultures like Mana Masu of West Africa. Let’s look at civilizations like the Songhai Empire or Mali Empire. Let’s absolutely celebrate Harriet Tubman and Martin Luther King, Jr., and let’s also celebrate Booker T. Washington and Justice Thurgood Marshall. Let’s teach about local heroes like Gus Young and also Leonard Julien. Let’s explore lessons on people like Madame C.J. Walker– a daughter of former slaves who went on to become an entrepreneur, philanthropist and the first female self-made millionaire. 

Let’s truly celebrate all that black history can teach us and our children, and let’s carry it on through every other month of the year. To help us, I’ve compiled a list of events and local resources that we can use to both celebrate and educate ourselves and our kids about the richness and diversity of African-American history. This list is not exhaustive, but we hope you find it helpful. If you know of any events or resources not listed below, feel free to please share them in the comments section!

http://www.whitneyplantation.comPhoto credit: Whitney Plantation

Community Resources: Black History Month in Baton Rouge

The River Road African-American Museum in Donaldsonville offers private, guided tours for individuals and groups. For twenty-two years this hidden gem has served as a resource for the people of our community containing items such as historical documents, books, rare photographs, newspaper ads for runaway slaves, sketches of inventors, and information on politicians, soldiers, artisans and entrepreneurs. Whether you are a home school mom, in a co-op, a teacher or church director, this museum is happy to help guide and educate you on local, rural black history of our area for only $5 per person. Appointments for these tours can be scheduled by contacting them at lathe@aamuseum.org or by calling 225.206.1225.

The Odell S. Williams Now and Then Museum of African-American History was founded in 2001 on South Blvd. as an out-growth of the congregation’s commitment to promote and educate people about the achievements of African- Americans. It features the following exhibits: art work of local black artists, a collection of rural Louisiana artifacts, a collection of inventions, a historic poster collection, and a walking trail that illustrates art and history. General public admission is $4/person (kids under 6 are free!) and hours are Wednesday- Saturday 10am-5pm and by appointment. Call 225.343.4431 or email OSWAfricanAmericanMuseum@gmail.com for more information.

The Whitney Plantation has gained media exposure for being the first and only museum on slavery. Originally known as Habitation Haydel, it is located on River Road in Wallace, Louisiana. Tours are available everyday (except Tuesday) from 10am-3pm and are on a first-come, first-served basis. Your guide will lead you through the historic Antioch Baptist Church built by former slaves, original outbuildings, slave quarters, and the circa 1790 Big House. You will walk through the oldest detached kitchen in Louisiana and learn about the Haydel family and their workforce of over 100 slaves. Tour guides emphasize the lives of enslaved laborers who toiled in Louisiana, and because of this it is recommended for kids in 5th grade and above (or up to the parent’s discretion). To purchase tickets in advance, please call the Visitor Center at 225.265.3300. In addition to the tour, their website also offers many articles can be used to educate your kids or students about the slave trade nationally and locally.

Other ideas include visiting Allendale Plantation Cabins, The Martin Luther King, Jr. monument and the Port Hudson Battlefield. 

The East BRP Library system has a digital archive full of photographs (with descriptions) pertaining to Black History. Check it out here.

black-history

Local Events:
The 14th Annual Black History Parade will be held on Saturday, February 13 at 1:00pm. The parade route begins on William and Lee Park, traveling down Louisiana Avenue to Alexander Street, then California Street to 14th Street, and back to William and Lee Park. 

On February 19th from 6:30-8:30pm, the Independence Park Theater will celebrate the contributions of African- Americans both locally and worldwide with featured performances from area schools and local choral groups. More info at their website or by calling 225.216.0660.

On February 27 Magnolia Mound Plantation will be holding their 11th annual Black History Month event which is free and open to the public! From 2-5pm The Manager’s House and the Slave Cabin will be on display, there will be presentations from noted speakers, horse-drawn wagon rides, a food tent and cooking demonstration in the reproduction kitchen on the site. More information here.

West Baton Rouge Museum will host several other Black History events including a film series and lunchtime lectures. More information at their website.

The EBRP Library system will be offering several events appropriate for children in celebration of Black History Month. Here’s a few:

The Carver branch will be celebrating African-American children’s authors and illustrators with these two activities:
Celebrating Donald Crews, Thursday Feb. 22 at 4pm (ages 6-8, limited to 8 participants, call to register)
Celebrating Jerry Pinkney, Monday, February 29 at 4pm (ages 4-7, limited to 10, call to register)

Additionally, the Carver branch will be hosting a reading of Martin Luther King, Jr’s “I Have a Dream” Speech on Thursday, February 18 at 4pm, and a Kwanza in February children’s program on Thursday, February 25 at 4:30pm.

At the River Center branch children’s room there will be an African American read-in from 10am-4pm (also on February 18). Children can learn about modern day African American inventor Kenneth J. Dunkley, hear a short biography and make a pair of 3-d glasses. (ages 7-11, call to register)

Thursday, February 18 at 3pm at Eden Park Branch they will be creating mini-marching signs to go along with A Picture Book of Martin Luther King, Jr. (ages 7-11)

And also on February 18, there will be an African American History Trivia for Teens game at the Delmont Gardens Branch at 4pm.

Suggested Reading Lists:

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“28 Black Picture Books That Aren’t About Boycotts, Buses or Basketball

“26 Children’s Books That Celebrate Black Heroes”

From Just Read Florida

From Reading Rockets

And check these out, too:
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
Mama Miti: Wangari Maathai and the Trees of Kenya
Sundiata : An Epic of Old Mali
The Pot of Wisdom: Ananse Stories
Mansa Musa : The Lion of Mali
A Kids Guide to African American History
Sojourner Truth’s Step-Stomp Stride
I am Jackie Robinson
I am Martin Luther King, Jr.
I am Rosa Parks
The Story of Ruby Bridges
Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears: A West African Tale
African Princess: The Amazing Lives of Africa’s Royal Women

Top 5 King Cakes in Baton Rouge

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 The holidays may have ended for some, but ours continues with Mardi Gras! It’s King’s Day and the start of the Mardi Gras season. King Cake truly is the demise of many New Year’s resolutions, but how can we resist this buttery danish pastry, sweetened with dusted sugar, icing and a plethora of flavored fillings? Not us!

We asked you to share your favorite Baton Rouge area King Cakes and you did, with over 70 recommendations! Here are the top 5 places to get King Cake according to YOU, Baton Rouge Moms! Enjoy this trail of delicious King Cakes and try them all before Mardi Gras to decide the best for yourself.  😉
Best King Cake in Baton Rouge
 

Top 5 King Cakes in Baton Rouge:

  1. Randazzo’s King Cake – Your source for the original Randazzo family mardi gras king cake. You can get your Baton Rouge Randazzo’s at Carnival Mart off Florida BLVD and at Capital City Crawfish! “A Tradition in Baking” is what Nonna’s is all about. Every cake is “hand-braided” and baked fresh daily. Their traditional King Cake is cinnamon flavored, colored with Mardi Gras colors of purple, green and gold, iced with our just made icing and festively decorated with candy non-pariels. Each cake contains a baby. king Cakes are complemented by Cream Cheese, Strawberry Cream Cheese and Pecan Praline. They pump the filling into the braids of the cake before it is baked.
    Randazzo King Cake Baton Rouge
    Carnival Mart
    8696 Florline Blvd.
    Baton Rouge, LA  70815
    225-248-9720
  2. Calandro’s King Cake– With over 50 flavors, you’re sure to find the perfect King Cake at Calandro’s, learn more in the video below!
                

  3. Oak Point Fresh Market – You can stop by both Watson and Central to grab a specialty King Cake!! Baked fresh daily.
    Oak Point Fresh Market King Cake
  4. Ambrosia & Thee Heavenly Donut tied for fourth place! Ambrosia – There are many options when it comes to The Ambrosia King Cake!  The Traditional King Cake (shown here for an “In-Store Pickup”) has cinnamon and sugar inside of our family secret King Cake dough.  Purchase a “Mardi Gras King Cake Kit” and take your King Cake home for the kids to decorate and have a Mardi Gras Party! 
    Best Baton Rouge King CakeThee Heavenly Donut – Home of the BOUDIN kingcake and Pecan praline, Banana Foster, Turtle, LA Cajun Mud, Strawberry OH MY!!!!!
    Thee Heavenly Donut King Cake Baton Rouge
  5. LeBlanc’s – Said to have bigger cakes with more filling, you can get your fresh Kings Cakes at all LeBlanc’s stores or have them shipped!
    LeBlanc's King Cake Baton Rouge

Honorable Mention: – Mentioned multiple times in our poll were…
Ralph’s Market
Ralph's Supermarkey King Cake Baton Rouge

Gambino’s
Gambino's King-Cake Baton Rouge

Another Piece of Cake
Another Piece of Cake King Cake Baton RougeBe sure to check out our complete Mardi Gras Guide with parade schedule, full list of King Cake locations, Mardi Gras tips for the family and more!
Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Guide

Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Guide

Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Parades & Events 2016

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Contrary to popular belief, Mardi Gras can be family-friendly. The festival seems like it was made for children, with floats derived from the depths of the most ingenious imaginations, costumes and masks that express an unending creativity, bold colors and joyous music abounds through parades. And, most importantly, the beads, doubloons and other treats thrown to the crowds from the floats are a child’s delight.

Mardi Gras 2016 is Tuesday, February 9

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Baton Rouge Moms has put together a comprehensive Family Friendly Mardi Gras Guide with Mardi Gras  parades, a printable PDF and tips for parade goers.

Madri Gras Fun Fact: Rex selected the official Mardi Gras colors in 1872 to honor the visiting Russian Grand Duke Alexis  Alexandrovich Romanoff, whose house colors were purple, green and gold.

Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Parades 2016:

Please check the individual parade organizations’ websites for updated details.

Krewe of Artemis

Friday, January 29 at 7pm  – The Krewe of Artemis 14th Annual Mardi Gras Parade will roll through the streets of downtown Baton Rouge on Friday, January 29, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. Join the excited revelers as they line the parade route while joining in the festivities and experiencing Baton Rouge Mardi Gras….Artemis style!!Revelers will be treated with themed throws, including the Krewe of Artemis’ signature High Heeled Shoe, along with footballs, tambourines, stuffed animals, float beads and lighted throws. Parade begins and ends at the corner of Government Street and St. Philip Street. 

Krewe of Mystique de la CAPITALE

Saturday, January 30 at 2pm – The Krewe of Mystique de la Capitale welcomes you to the 2016 Mardi Gras Parade as they celebrate 38 years of parading in Louisiana’s capital city. We are the city’s oldest parading Mardi Gras Krewe and we’ve shared 38 wonderful years of carnival fun in Baton Rouge. The parade is family oriented and promises fun for all ages. The parade consists of marching bands, 12 to 14 floats that represent the Krewe along with many local businesses, and charitable organizations.

Krewe of Orion

Krewe of Orion

Saturday, January 30 at 6:30pm – The Krewe of Orion’s 17th annual Mardi Gras parade will roll through downtown Baton Rouge on January 30, 2016! This family-oriented parade begins and ends at the corner of Government Street and St. Philip Street. Parade goers will be treated to a lineup of exciting, colorful traditional lighted and tractor-pulled floats. Rollin’ with the theme of “Jet Set” with Orion! Masked and costumed riders will throw plenty of Orion parade theme medallions, footballs, cups, plush animals, swords, doubloons, lighted throws, and beads. Marching bands, as well as riding and marching units will be among the great sights and sounds at this wonderful parade.

The CAAWS Mystic Krewe of Mutts ParadeCAAWS MYSTIC KREWE OF MUTTS 

Sunday, January 31, 2:00pm  – The CAAWS Mystic Krewe of Mutts is a family-oriented, fun-filled, parade and promises all a very special day. Mardi Gras colored costumes and pet-sized floats will roll along North Boulevard on Sunday, January 31st.  The CAAWS Mystic Krewe of Mutts Paw Wars – The Furs Unleashed January 31, 2016 Downtown Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Parade 2:00 Bark in the Park 10-4. Parade begins at North Boulevard and St. Ferdinand Street, turning North at 8th Street and ending at North Boulevard and Fourth Street.

FOR SAFETY PURPOSES, NO RETRACTABLE LEASHES ARE ALLOWED, NOR ANY LEASHES LONGER THAN 6′. Your dog should have a proof of current rabies vaccination tag. No puppies under 12 weeks, aggressive dogs, or dogs in heat are allowed.

Krewe of Southdowns 

Friday, February 5th at 7pm – This parade is Baton Rouge’s family-friendly evening parade that rolls through the Southdowns Neighborhood from Glasgow Middle School. The theme for the Southdowns 2016 parade will be “Under The Big Top”.

Krewe of Good Friends of the Oaks

Sunday, February 7th at 2pm – The theme for the 2016 parade will be CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF PORT ALLEN (history, local festivals, music, landmarks, celebrities, etc) The 32nd Krewe of Good Friends of the Oaks Mardi Gras parade will begin and end at the corner of the LA-1 Service Road and Oaks Avenue. The parade route is as follows: east on Oaks Avenue to Jefferson Avenue, north on Jefferson Avenue to Court Street, west on Court Street to Sixth Street, north on Sixth Street to Louisiana Avenue, east on Louisiana Avenue to Jefferson Avenue, south on Jefferson Avenue to Oaks Avenue, west on Oaks Avenue to LA-1 Service Road.

ADDIS MARDI GRAS PARADE

Sunday, January 31, 2016
1:00 pm  (NEW TIME)
MORE INFO TO COME
Theme of Parade:  ADDIS GOES TO HOLLYWOOD
 

Krewe Denham Springs

Saturday, January 30, 2016
3-5 p.m please contact Roni Juneau at carljuneau@cox.net or ronijuneau@yahoo.com for any information.
 

 

baton rouge Ultimate Mardi Gras Party

Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Festival 2016

Saturday, February 6th, from 10:00am to 6:00pm – The Ultimate Louisiana Mardi Gras Party 2016 will take place Saturday, February 6th, from 10:00am to 6:00pm at North Boulevard Town Square, located at 247 Florida Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70801. The event will showcase live bands and Krewes, with a Vendor Village, art exhibits, food and more. The event is free and open to the public. ‘Taste of Louisiana’ meal tickets and VIP tickets available at an additional cost.

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Family Gras 2015 in Metairie

JANUARY 29, 30 & 31 – This celebration of carnival and family takes place on the neutral ground of Veterans Memorial Boulevard across from Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie, Louisiana.

Entertainment for 2015 Family Gras includes Cowboy Mouth, Amanda Shaw, former Journey member Steve Augeri, former members of the Electric Light Orchestra, Courtney Cole, Blood Sweat & Tears, Wilson Phillips and Montgomery Gentry. Local and regional artists set up in the Art Market, where you can buy their work throughout the whole festival.  Flambeau Food Court vendors will be there cooking up Louisiana favorites, like jambalaya, crawfish pasta, muffulettas, pizza and gator-on-a-stick. There will also be local goodies like bread pudding and king cake.

NOLA Mardi Gras

 If you are new to Baton Rouge  and or Louisiana, the only place you should avoid with kids is the French Quarter. It’s best to see the parades when they begin on St. Charles Avenue near Napoleon, since parades can go on well into the night by the end of the parade route. The Garden District are of St. Charles is also family area where you will see many families enjoying the day and planting themselves to see the parades.

The Sunday before Mardi Gras is particularly family oriented, with Thoth parading down Magazine Street and Bacchus rolling later in the afternoon.

The Krewe of Barkus is a delightful dog parade that rolls the Sunday prior to Thoth. It begins in Congo Square and parades through the French Quarter and is remarkable fun for children of any age.

On Fat Tuesday, visitors are encouraged to join the local tradition of masking. Zulu, an African American parade, leads the long day of parades on Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras itself. Children scramble for the much desired coconuts handed down by float riders.

Mardi Gras 2016 New Orleans Parade Schedule
Mardi Gras 2016 Northshore Parade Schedule
2016 Acadiana Mardi Gras Schedule

Your guide to Mardi Gras King Cakes in Baton Rouge

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We’ve just finished up Christmas 2015 and welcomed in the new year, it’s time to celebrate new beginnings and count down to more fun! We’ll barely have time to catch our breath from the New Year celebration before Mardi Gras 2016 is in full swing! We’re sure you’ve noticed that King Cakes are already at your favorite local markets and bakeries so we thought it best to kick off our Mardi Gras Guide with a Guide to King Cakes in Baton Rouge.

On the Christian calendar, the 12th day after Christmas is celebrated as the date that the gift-bearing Magi visited the baby Jesus. This day, January 6, is known by several names, including “Epiphany”, “Twelfth Night”, or “Kings Day”. The King Cake is a traditional reenactment of Epiphany, the day the Magi arrived in Bethlehem and presented gifts to baby Jesus the twelfth night after his birth. I tried my very first king cake while living abroad in Toulouse, France. “Epiphany cakes” are found throughout Europe–in England, it is known as a Twelfth Night cake, Roscón de reyes or rosca de reyes (kings’ ring) is a Spanish and Latin American King Cake pastry and in France, the King Cake is known as the Gteau De Rois. All very similar and all delicious!

Your guide to King Cakes in Baton Rouge

There are numerous places to get king cake and a plethora of flavors to choose from… Traditional, Cream-cheese, Chocolate, Praline, Strawberry, Apple,  Raspberry to Bacon, Boudin and Maple! Below we’ve listed twenty places where you can get your King Cake fix. Check back at the end of the week to see the top 5 from the list via our Facebook poll!

Your guide to Mardi Gras King Cake in Baton Rouge:

Your guide to Mardi Gras King Cake in Baton Rouge:

  1. Alexander’s – 18111 Highland Market Drive – Phone: 615-7800
  2. Ambrosia Bakery – 8546 Siegen Lane – Phone: 763-6489
  3. Another Piece of Cake – 14112 Greenwell Springs Rd. Central, LA Phone: 810-3377
  4. Baums – Florida Blvd Location 8046 Florida Blvd. Phone: 927-0760 – Perkins Road Location 10550 Perkins Rd. Phone: 767-4838
  5. Brew Ha Ha – 711 Jefferson Hwy Suite 2-A – Phone: 923-1923
  6. Cake Jewels – King Cake Balls – Phone: 337-0253
  7. Calandro’s – Government Street: 383-7815 • Perkins Road: 767-6659
  8. Cupcake Allie – 753 Perkins Road, Suite #6 Phone: 302-7096
  9. Daily Donut – Gonzales– 12503 Airline Hwy
  10. Gambino’s– 8646 Goodwood Blvd – Phone: 928-7000
  11. Gourmet Girls– 3025 Perkins Rd – Phone: 252-0999
  12. LeBlanc’s – 8 locations in Louisiana
  13. 11826 Coursey Blvd – Phone: 293-8115
  14. Thee Heavenly Donut– 17732 Highland Rd – 753.7711 5830 –  S. Sherwood Forest Blvd. – 368.0090 – 15507 Hwy 44 Gonzales – 622.7797
  15. Mr. Ronnies– 216 Lee Dr, Ste D Phone: 223-6116
  16. My Sugar Belle– 5151 Plank Rd, Ste 42 Phone: 355-8080
  17. Nanette Mayhall Phone: 343-4530.
  18. NY Bagel– 8342 Perkins Rd – Phone: 218-6070
  19. Oak Point Fresh Market – Watson and Central locations
  20. Ralphs– 15013 Hwy 44 Gonzales – 622-4044 – 6576 Jones Creek Road – 752-1004 – 6431 Hwy 44 (Pelican Point) Gonzales – 473-1004
  21. Randazzos– You can get your Baton Rouge Randazzo’s at Carnival Mart off Florida BLVD and at Capital City Crawfish!
  22. Strands Cafe– 226 LAUREL ST.- Phone: 344-5346
  23. Tiger Deaux-Nuts– 5162 Government St Phone: 421-1091

These are not the only places to find King Cake in the Baton Rouge area but this is a great start! If we have missed one of your favorites, please let us know in the comments below. Check our Facebook page for King Cake giveaways and be sure to check back for our Mardi Gras Parade Guide, tomorrow!
Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Guide

Making Time for Family – Five Fall Bucket List Favorites

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One of my favorite things to do since becoming a mom is making plans for us to do things with my family, it’s so important to me. Being pregnant this summer, I failed miserably to do that. I don’t think we checked one thing off of the bucket list I created. It was either too hot, or I was too tired to get out and do a whole lot. Mommy guilt has me feeling like I need to make that up to my three favorite people.

Fall has always been my favorite season. I love the Autumn breezes, the colorful leaves, eating fried Oreos at fairs, and the oh-so-good Pumpkin Spice Latte which by the way I should’ve already had by now! This is the perfect time to get out and have a great time with family and friends. The weather is perfect and never too hot or too cool for the kiddos.
I like to carve out any amount of time I can for us to have fun together. So for  this fall season I’ve created yet another bucket list. Only this time, we are definitely checking most, if not all, things off. I’m sharing my top 5 bucket list items. My list actually has 10 things on it, but these are the five that we absolutely must do.

Fall Bucket List Five

Five Fall Bucket List Favorites

1. Picnic in the park
Yes, I plan to grab a blanket, books, food, and toys for Ava and play with her while daddy and Landen throw frisbees or something.

2. Camping
My son has been asking to go camping for quite some time now. I figure if I i stock up on enough mosquito repellent I could probably survive and of course I also need a pocket knife round-up to have it with me the whole time. But a night in the camper with maybe some fishing (and s’mores of course) should be lots of fun!

3. Pumpkin Patch
Because it’s just not fall if there isn’t a trip to the pumpkin patch!

4. Global Wildlife Center
I’ve heard such great things about Global Wildlife. Unfortunately,  anyone who knows me, knows I’m terrified of animals. My son though, is quite the opposite. I know that he’d love being up close and personal with the animals and getting to feed them.

5. Volunteering
Fall season is also the season of Thanks. With so much to be thankful for, we must keep in mind that there are others less fortunate. Occasional donations of food and clothing are ways that we try and bless others, but in this season we plan to “serve” others through our Church’s annual serve opportunities!

These are my top 5 fall bucket list items. They make for excellent ways to spend time together and do things as a family. You don’t have to create a bucket list, you can just create small moments whenever you can to make time for family time!

What’s your favorite Fall family activity?

Fourth of July Event Guide – Fireworks, Parades, Festivals in Baton Rouge

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Check out our 2017 Fourth of July Guide HERE!

Fourth of July Celebrations in Baton Rouge

We are fortunate to live in the land of the free, home of the brave, thanks to our founders and those who fought for freedom so long ago. Today, we celebrate America’s Independence with food, fun, family gatherings, fireworks and most importantly, honoring those who have served and continue to serve.

Looking for something to do in Baton Rouge for the Forth of July? There are plenty of red, white and blue events celebrating Independence Day – we’ve got you covered with a star-studded guide to help you!

Baton Rouge Moms will always bring you the best in Family Friendly events in and around the Baton Rouge area.

Family Friendly Baton Rouge 4th of July

July 2nd

Baton Rouge

farm_to_fourth-Baton-Rouge

Farm to Fourth Market –  8am – Noon. The second annual Farm to Fourth Market will be a great family event held on Thursday, July 2nd at Pennington Biomedical Research Center. The “Farm to Fourth” celebration includes samples and Fourth of July supplies from Baton Rouge’s best farmers and food artisans. They will be cooking and sampling some great Fourth of July dishes, like grilled gulf shrimp, barbecue brisket sandwiches, smoked sausage, grilled local veggies, and smoked whole chickens. More than two dozen local vendors will be a part of the Farm to Fourth celebration. #eatlocal #farmtofourth

July 3rd

Kenilworth Independence Day Parade – “Learning to Love Liberty” – On this 70th anniversary of D-Day, come celebrate our nation’s birthday at the parade and join us for one of Baton Rouge’s premier Independence Day events! The parade features military and civic groups, bagpipers, antique cars, buggies, elected officials, horse groups, and more!!  Swing by Kenilworth Science & Technology School for the start of the parade. Enjoy the music of the Jemini Venture bluegrass band. Come visit with the animal adoption agencies who will be there. The Baton Rouge Sheriff Department wil be on the school grounds taking identification fingerprints for kids. Friday, July 3, 2014 6:30 pm 

Screen Shot 2015-06-12 at 4.04.49 PM3rd of July Fireworks – The ONLY fireworks program in Ascension Parish! Main Street Donaldsonville is proud to once again produce the 3rd of July Fireworks. CF Industries, City of Donaldsonville and Donaldsonville Downtown Development District sponsoring this annual COMMUNITY EVENT for all. COME HUNGRY! COME EARLY ! FOOD, CRAFTS, DANCING For details, call (225) 323-2555

 

July 4th

Downtown Development District Events:

8 a.m. – BASF Freedom Mile

Join BASF and Club South Runners for a one-mile race through downtown Baton Rouge. Race begins on River Road near the USS Kidd. A series of one-mile races and a half-mile Parent/Child Run. Transportation provided to start area. Watermelon, fruit, Coca Cola products and Mockler Beerages afterwards. 1st race to start at 7:30 a.m. with other events to follow every 20 minutes. For more information visit www.rrca.org or 927-9200, www.clubsouthrunners.net

9 a.m. – 9 p.m. USS KIDD’s 4th of July Spectacular!

Games, patriotic crafts, inflatables, face painting, and lots more to entrain kids of all ages! For more information call 342-1942 or visit www.usskidd.com No ice chests, barbecue pits, tents or pets allowed.

Fourth of July Event Guide - Baton Rouge

9 p.m. Fireworks On The Mississippi – This year’s fireworks display can be viewed from either side of the Mississippi River, either in Downtown Baton Rouge or in Port Allen. WBRZ would like to encourage the public to join us in our annual tradition of honoring our troops and our great nation. NOTE: No ice chests, BBQ pits, tents or pets allowed.

North Bouleard Town Square : “Patriots on the Beacon”

Honoring our Patriots on the North Boulevard Town Square beacon with over 100 photos of men and women who are serving or have served in the military. Patriotic music and movies will also play throughout the day and night in the Square.

West Baton Rouge Parish

4th Fest – The best view anywhere in the Baton Rouge area for 4th of July fireworks on the Mississippi River. Held July 4th in downtown Port Allen at the Riverfront on the Mississippi River Levee. The fun starts annually at 4:00 pm and ends at 10:30 pm. Free to the public and includes face painting, magicians, clowns and space walks for the children. Beverage & food vendors line the levee for all to enjoy. Live entertainment with several local bands allow the crowds plenty of dance music to enjoy before and after the spectacular fireworks show on the river.

Fourth of July Event Guide - Baton Rouge

Walker

Old Fashioned Family Day Celebration: 9:00am to 9:00pm Sidney Hutchinson Park. Come Join the FUN, FOOD, & FESTIVITIES! FREE ADMISSION, FREE EVENTS, FREE RIDES! Don’t forget your lawn chairs, blankets, sunscreen and bug spray!!! No alcohol is permitted in the park.

Fourth of July Event Guide - Baton Rouge

Iberville Parish

15th Annual July 4th Hometown Celebration 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Plaquemine Lock SHS will be open for tours and demonstrations, free admission.  Friends of the Lock will be sponsoring putt-putt boat rides beginning at noon.  The Iberville Museum will also open at noon and admission is free. 3:00-9:00 p.m.  Mouth watering food will be served from the Waterfront Park (please no ice chest, pets or tents).  3:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. Veterans Boat Parade – theme decorated boats are welcome.  6:00 p.m. Dancin’ on the boardwalk until the Firework Display at 9:00 p.m.! Phone: 225-687-3116 Website: www.plaquemine.org 

Plaquemine 4th of July

Pointe Coupee Parish

False River Annual Boat Parade Will Be Held On July 5, 2014 beginning at 1:00 p.m. The 2015 False River Fourth of July Boat Parade Theme will be: “Traveling the USA.” The parade will be on July 4, 2015 and will once again be sponsored by the City of New Roads. For More Information Contact: (225) 638-5360 

JULY 5TH

Baton Rouge

STAR SPANGLED SATURDAY: 8 a.m. to noon, Red Stick Farmers Market, Fifth and Main streets. 
Red Stick Farmers Market will celebrate the 4th of July with locally grown produce, live music and plenty of red, white and blue. The Market will open with a special rendition of the Star Spangled Banner and continue with other patriotic tunes throughout the morning with his jazz trio. Shoppers can find fresh items for holiday barbeques including sweet corn, squash varieties, sausage, shrimp, watermelons, cantaloupes, peaches and blueberries.

St. Mary Parish

Rock the 5th – Morgan City’s Independence Day Celebration. Takes place Sunday,  July 5 from 4 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. at Lawrence Park and the Riverfront.  4 to 5:30 p.m. — Hal Bruni Band 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. — Band Camp 9 p.m. – – Fireworks over a Atchafalaya River Food and drinks will be accessible for purchase.

Fourth of July Event Guide - Baton Rouge

Happy Fourth of July! We hope you have a fun, safe and beautiful holiday weekend!

Second Choice Outfits – Listen to Your Mother

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I saw the call out for auditions somewhere on Facebook. My desire to tell a story took over and I emailed for a spot. I didn’t tell anyone I was auditioning. If I didn’t get chosen, I couldn’t tell anyone of the rejections. After all, I am not a mom. Who was I too tell Baton Rouge what I know of motherhood? I got the email less than a week later, I had been chosen to read in that show. I was excited, but I don’t think the full extent of what I was participating in had hit me yet. It did on March 21st.

It was a rough day March 21st. I woke up feeling clammy, but today was the day I got to meet 12 other women I got to speak next to in the Baton Rouge Listen To Your Mother production and there were pictures to be taken which meant I had to fix my hair. My hair that hadn’t been washed in 4 days. Dry shampoo wasn’t going to cut it. So I washed and I blow-dryed and I laid my 21 week pregnant exhausted body under my full blast ceiling fan. I couldn’t cool off. I kept moving. I put on the only outfit that I felt like made me look pregnant as opposed to eating too many cheeseburgers. I headed out the door. First stop brunch.

As I sat through brunch I could feel my belly rumbling. I hadn’t been sick all pregnancy. Could this late onset morning sickness? I ate my food and my friend and I left. Next stop rehearsals, except….half a block down I just looked at my friend with a face of desperation and asked her to pull over. My cute outfit, my washed hair was now covered in my brunch. I will spare you the other details. I was heartbroken, these moms were going to meet me in my second choice outfit, with remnants of my own brunch in my hair. I looked in the mirror to see mascara running down my face. No more lipstick to be had. My hair…oh my hair, but I drove downtown. I already didn’t feel like I belonged, but now, A SECOND CHOICE OUTFIT (a second choice outfit at a very swollen 21 weeks is not acceptable in my hormonal brain). Then I sat at a table with 12 other women, 12 other moms.

ltym-br cast

Among the initial thoughts of, “Oh my goodness, do I belong here?” There was also a sense of belonging. I moved to Baton Rouge a year and a half ago and never really felt I found a place. At that table I had my place, it was labeled with my name on it. There was my place at a table of moms. As the introductions went around, I felt the rumble coming again, but I couldn’t leave. These women read their pieces and my heart grew three sizes. Each story I found myself holding on to each and every word, cherishing them. These words were tiny piece of these mothers’ heart and as each story was read, I realized something. This wasn’t just a show about motherhood. This was a show about being a wife. Being a daughter. Being a child. This was a show of gratitude and hope. This was a show of celebration and choosing joy. This was a show that my quasi “not a mother” self found her place in. This was a show for the feminist, the non-feminist. This was a show that summed up the personality of the south I had come to know and love perfectly. This was a show that allowed me to forget that my mascara was gone, my lipstick was lying along Jefferson Highway and my stomach turned with ferociousness that could only mean bad seafood from the night before. I belonged at this table, second choice outfit and all.  

LTYM-BRAs I left that rehearsal, I couldn’t help but be prideful. I get to stand up on a stage on May third and tell Baton Rouge my story of motherhood and I get to do it with the camaraderie of 12 women I had never met before a fateful Saturday of food poisoning and new friendships. To say I am proud is an understatement. Maybe I am not technically a mom, but I do have a story to tell about motherhood, step-motherhood and having a mom. If I belonged at that table, I can assure you, you will find yourself belonging in that theatre as one by one, these ladies share their stories of life.

This is the first year that Listen to Your Mother is coming to Baton Rouge. I hope you will find yourself heading over here and getting a ticket to hear these stories on May 3, 2015 at 2pm. The show will take place at the Manship Theatre in Baton Rouge. The show will benefit Hope House. You can read all about the cast and sponsors on the Listen to Your Mother Baton Rouge website. You can purchase your ticket on Manship Theatre’s website or clicking here.

Sesame Street Live “Let’s Dance!” {Giveaway}

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Hosted by two live performers, Sesame Street Live “Let’s Dance!” offers an up-close, interactive experience like you’ve never experienced before! You, the audience, are invited to dance as all of your favorite Sesame Street friends join you on the floor – dancing with fans of all ages! In addition to ongoing dance parties, Elmo uses his imagination to “Do the Robot,” Cookie Monster teaches all ‘feets’ to dance, and Ernie shares the fun of dance with the Sesame Street favorite “Shake Your Head One Time.”

sesame_street_lets_dance_tickets

Tickets are available at the River Center box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, charge by phone at-1-800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com. For more information, please contact the Baton Rouge River Center at 225-389-3030.

SESAME STREET LIVE “LET’S DANCE”
FAMILY 4 PACK  GIVEAWAY
PLUS VIP MEET & GREET PASSES
{$120 Value}

Winner will receive 4 Meet & Greet tickets with 4 show tickets. Each adult and child (age 1 and up) in a group must have a show ticket and Meet & Greet ticket. All Meet & Greets start one hour before show time and last 20 minutes. Latecomers may miss the opportunity. Please meet at the Sunny Seats sign in the main lobby. Don’t forget your camera!

Please use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter the giveaway!  To increase your odds, complete the extra entry options on the Rafflecopter and on our Facebook page.

Winner will be randomly chosen and listed here on this post on Saturday March 7th at 9:00pm.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: This is a “sponsored post.” The companies who sponsored it compensated BRM via a cash payment, gift, or giveaway. Opinions expressed herein are that of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of the sponsor.

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20 Sweet & Savory King Cake Inspired Treats

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Our stores are overflowing with the goodness of King Cake and this year it seems we can find menagerie of King Cake flavors and styles, including Bouudin! The King Cake has evolved from its humble roots, inspiring a plethora of savory foods, sweets and treats… making this the ultimate Mardi Gras food! Below we are featuring our favorites from Mardi Gras 2015!

king cake parfait

The King Cake parfait can be found at Dessert Lounge. (Photo: Indulge Desserts)

 

    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If the above doesn’t have your mouth watering or at least feeling a virtual sugar rush…nothing will! Enjoy the last days of the Mardi Gras season and go get you some King Cake before it’s too late!

Here is a Baton Rouge King Cake Guide: Interact with a video map to find your Mardi Gras fix!

Laissez les bons temps rouler!

BatonRougeCuisine