The Bluebird Patch (Happiness Blog)

Charity Events We Love: IKEA Top Drawer! Where Furniture, Art, and Charity Collide

2013-06-19T18:39:00.000-07:00

Top Drawer!

Where furniture, art, and charity collide

IKEA, The Life Improvement Store, is bringing the best students artists from from SCAD, The Art Institute of Atlanta, GA State, and ATC to design/decorate a one-of-a-kind IKEA 3-drawer TARVA dresser that will be raffled for charity.

100% of the proceeds will benefit Devereux Georgia, a non-profit organization licensed to serve children ages 8-21 who are experiencing emotional and behavioural challenges brought on by abuse, neglect, mental illness, sexual exploitation, or intellectual/developmental disabilities.

The dressers will be showcased in the store July 20-July 30 for customers to drop their raffle tickets on their favorite art pieces. The goal is to raise $10,000+ of which 100% will benefit children in need.

Local media personalities, professional designers and a curator will judge the dressers and the students will be recognized at the event. This will be a free yet by invitation/RSVP only cocktail event. IKEA Gift Cards will be awarded to the Top Drawer by category, values: $100 to $500.

Calling All Students Artists!!

There is no purchase necessary to participate. You must be 18 years old and a current student with valid ID. The pieces for the Top Drawer event will be selected at the discretion of the curator. If unclaimed after the raffle, dressers will become the property of Devereux Georgia. Dressers may be picked up June 20-July 12 at IKEA between 11am-8pm. Dresser requires assembly. All designed dressers must be fully assembled and functional. Product dimensions: Width: 31 1/8“, Depth: 15 3/8“, Height: 36 1/4 “. Untreated solid wood can be treated with lacquer, wax, stain or oil for a more durable surface. Completed pieces must be returned to IKEA by July 15, no exceptions.

For more details, contact: Deidra Cunningham | IKEA | (404)249-6257 x1336

For consideration, please submit completed form to Deidra.Cunningham@IKEA.com | fax 404-541-1919

Name: _________________________ Phone: _________________________

Address: _________________________

City, ST Zip: _________________________

Email: _________________________

School: _________________________

Georgia SPCA Unveils New Foster Programs For Store Owners

2013-06-19T15:11:00.000-07:00

Georgia SPCA is starting a new foster program where they place a long time resident cat in a store or shop so they can foster it, and get it adopted. If you are within 10 miles of Georgia SPCA, and would be willing to foster an adult cat in your store or shop, Georgia SPCA will provide all the food, litter and medical care while the cat is under your care. For more information please cal Gail, Georgia SPCA foster coordinator at 678-362-2036 or send an email to grconnor@bellsouth.net

First Look: Weebles Coast To Coast Exhibit at Imagine it! The Children's Museum of Atlanta

2013-06-17T17:18:00.000-07:00

WEEBLES Coast to Coast, a new educational traveling exhibit developed in collaboration with PLAYSKOOL® is now on display at Imagine It! The Children's Museum of Atlanta. From June 8 - September 8, WEEBLES Coast to Coast will whisk guests away on a 50-state adventure across the country, all without ever leaving the Museum. Loaded with more than 70 hands-on activities, the exhibit explores the geography, history and uniqueness of the 50 United States. Children can pretend to power a riverboat down the Mississippi, hit a home run at Fenway Park, snorkel in Hawaii and many more! A giant tree house and a themed reading area (A Book Can Take You Anywhere!) inspire children to learn about the United States…and beyond!

The 2,500 sq. ft. exhibit is designed for children ages 4 – 10. Hands-on activities present opportunities for children to build cognitive and social skills, be physically active, curious and imaginative, and express themselves through music, movement and art. Educational content in the exhibit reflects developmental milestones for early learners set by National Association for the Education of Young Children, and national academic standards for school-age children.

In addition there are several events through out the week that are complementary of the the exhibition. Here's the full event schedule so you can plan ahead!

Laugh and Learn
Monday - Saturday at 10:30 a.m. and Sundays at 11:00 a.m.
Join the Imaginators to pack for a camping trip, tour the islands of Hawaii, explore national parks and visit museums across the country.

Pickles Coast to Coast
Monday - Saturdays at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
Saturdays at 3:00 p.m. and Sundays at 12:00 p.m.
Frankie and Dusty are writing a book about how to travel across the country with their cardboard friend Pickles. There is only one problem. They lost Pickles and their book launch is in two days! Join them as they search for their friend and get a chance to ride some waves in California, dig for dinosaur bones in Montana and sing songs along the way!

American Bandstand Road Trip
Sundays and Mondays at 2:00 p.m.
Pack your boogie shoes and dance across the USA! Let music from Chicago, Memphis, Key West and many others take you away.

Follow that Map! It's Story time!
Mondays at 3:00 p.m.
Visitors can listen to a story while learning to read a map. Their new map skills will come in handy to help Sallie find her friends.

The Weebles State of Sports
Monday - Saturday at 2:00 p.m.
Join an Imaginator for an exciting sports geography lesson.

U.S. Grown! Storytime!
Tuesday - Friday at 3:00 p.m.
Saturdays at 4:00 p.m.
Join an Imaginator for a story that celebrates the different fruits and vegetables that are grown in the United States.

Sunday Storytime

Sundays at 3:00 p.m. Children are encouraged to grab a blanket and delve into the world of books.

Events will occur every day from June 8 - September 8, 2013, Monday-Friday (10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.) and Saturday and Sunday (10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.).

For more pictures of the Weebles exhibit please visit our Facebook page!

www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org/‎

Happy Father's Day!

2013-06-16T10:08:00.001-07:00

Happy Father's Day to all the Georgia SPCA dads who are always working above and beyond to create a better world for abused and neglected animals! If you want to meet foster dog Benny please contact me or contact Georgia SPCA! Benny will have his much needed makeover in a few days and will return to the shelter in 11 days! He is the sweetest most lovable dog you will ever meet. Is hard to believe the level of neglect he was found. I'm confident he will get adopted in a flash! Seriously, how can you say no to him :) http://www.georgiaspca.org/

5 Reasons To Watch The Cat In The Hat at The Center Of Puppetry Arts #CatInTheHatATL

2013-06-14T10:41:00.000-07:00

Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat at the Center for Puppetry Arts is a family friendly show performed by six skilled puppeteers using full-bodied rod puppets on a tabletop stage.

Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat is based on the beloved children’s book first published in 1957. Originally produced by the National Theater of Great Britain, the production design was adapted for the puppet stage by the Center’s talented puppet and scenic designers.

Set, props and puppets were built to look exactly like the original book.

If you are looking for ways to entertain your kids during the Summer here are our top 5 reason's to come to The Center For Puppetry Arts and watch this amazing puppet show:

1. Beautiful stage, whimsical marionettes, cool special effects and a rain of bubbles during the show that makes you feel as if you are underwater!

2. Encourages kids to use their imagination: Play, including imaginative play, prepares the child for adulthood, play teaches him his place in the world, and play teaches him how to interact with the world. It is play that, in the child’s early years, lays a strong foundation for the physical, academic, social and emotional wellbeing that will last a lifetime. A child NEEDS to play to grow.

3. It teaches kids how to rhyme words: The recognition of rhyme may be the entry point to phonemic awareness development for many children. Research indicates there is a correlation between phonological awareness and reading ability. Working on rhyming skills is usually part of most programs of reading instruction for that reason.

4. It will make your child laugh and giggle during the entire show. I've seen a lot of puppet shows here and The Cat In The Hat has been the one that makes little kids laugh the most.

5. Kids can make their own Cat in the Hat Shadow Puppet to take home at the end of the show.

Don't forget to stop by the gift shop and check out all the cute Dr. Seuss hats, toys and marionettes.

http://www.puppet.org/

Events We Love: Cumberland Mall Experience the Wonders of Literacy With Page Turners Make Great Learners

2013-06-14T07:23:00.000-07:00

WHAT: Cumberland Mall is hosting Experience the Wonders of Literacy with Page Turners Make Great Learners. Celebrities and personalities will “take the stage” to read children’s classics to promote reading during the summer months.

Attendees will engage with celebrity guests as they explain how their occupation involves reading and answer questions from audience members. Join Cumberland Mall and Page Turners Make Great Learners for an afternoon filled with tales of a misbehaving kitty, a vacationing bedtime monster and a complaining “sweet” tooth!

In addition, Cumberland Mall will host a school supply drive and encourages attendees to bring items that can be donated to Lift Up Atlanta in time for back-to-school. Tables will be set up behind the stage for donations.

WHO: Special guests include celebrities such as actress and Meet the Browns cast member, Terri J. Vaughn; award-winning illustrator, Michael Allen Austin; Tyler Perry Studios President, Ozzie Areu; CBS Better Mornings Anchor, Jocelyn Connell; and host of “Atlanta Up Close” Cynthia Mallard. Josh Harris, comedian and instructor at Sketchworks, will emcee the event.

WHEN: Saturday, June 29, 2013, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

WHERE: Cumberland Mall 1000 Cumberland Mall Atlanta, GA 30339

Lift Up Atlanta is a non profit organization that is committed to helping the homeless and working poor and feeding the hungry. We work with several homeless shelters and community organizations in the metro Atlanta area and the homeless & low income families directly in providing everything from basic needs to computer training/job skills.

Mark Your calendars "Girl Rising" To Premiere on CNN June 16th

2013-06-14T06:43:00.001-07:00

10x10 wants YOU to be a part of the world’s biggest house party. Why?

This is a house party with purpose, that’s why! By hosting a Girl Rising viewing party in your home, you create visibility for girls around the world, and get the chance to raise funds to educate them.

On June 16th, they want you to have a good time while doing good. Host a viewing party for the CNN premiere of Girl Rising.

CNN Films' "Girl Rising," directed by Academy Award nominee Richard Robbins, tells the stories of girls across the globe and the power of education to change the world. The stories are told with the help of celebrated writers and renowned actresses such as Meryl Streep, Cate Blanchett and Selena Gomez.

Watch "Girl Rising," airing on CNN June 16 at 9 p.m. ET, and explore more stories, news and conversations around girls education here in the coming weeks. For more information, take a look here: http://bit.ly/15bj1Vo.

CHEETOS® “One-in-a-Minion Family Vacation” Sweepstakes

2013-06-11T14:37:00.000-07:00

Did you know Cheetos is giving you the chance to win an amazing family vacation that could encompass not only your immediate family, but some of your more distant relatives as well? You could win a $12,000 trip for yourself and eleven guests or one of 2,000 pairs of free movie tickets from Cheetos' One-in-a-Minion Family Vacation Sweepstakes.

Cheetos One-in-a-Minion Family Sweepstakes lets readers have the opportunity to win one of 2,000 first prizes which are a pair (2) of Despicable Me 2 movie tickets, and also the grand prize - a family adventure to Universal Orland Resort for 12. The approximate retail value of the grand prize is $12,000. Here are the details of the trip:

- Round-trip air transportation for winner and up to eleven (11) guests.

- Hotel accommodations for three (3) nights in three (3) double rooms and one (1) suite.

- Ground transportation

- Park Unlimited Passes for three (3) to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Wet and Wild.

- Blue Man Group performance tickets for twelve.

The first prize movie tickets will be awarded in the form of a Fandango promotional code redeemable at their site. The average retail for each prize is $20.00.

To enter simply go to cheetosoneinaminion.com and click on the sweepstakes page.

You don’t need to purchase a Cheetos product to get the special code that’s required because you can click on the “need a product code” tag, and one will automatically be assigned to you.

The Happy Cemetery - Historic Oakland Cemetery Tunes From The Tombs 2013 [PHOTO RECAP]

2013-06-11T09:28:00.000-07:00

On Saturday June 8^th, people from all over Atlanta gathered at the Historic Oakland Cemetery, to take part of Tombs From The Tombs, the cemetery third annual fundraiser.

This year Oakland Cemetery received a record breaking attendance proving to the world that partying and picnicking among the dead is a fun thing to do.

To soothe people's spirits, TUNES FROM THE TOMBS offered plenty of beer and wine. Local Atlanta food trucks served a variety of tasty festival fare.

Festival attendees enjoyed complimentary guided mini-tour, and had their fortunes read by Atlanta’s own, Robyn Avalon.

Oakland Cemetery is a 48- acre Victorian-style garden cemetery founded in 1850. It is one of the largest park spaces and significant cultural sites in metro Atlanta.

Among the approximately 70,000 interred at Oakland are: Gone With the Wind author Margaret Mitchell and golf great Bobby Jones, 27 former Atlanta mayors including Maynard Jackson, six former governors, the unmarked graves of paupers, Confederate and Union soldiers, a Jewish section, and an African American section.

The grounds of the cemetery are an example of the 19th-century landscape idea of a cemetery-park and provide an ideal setting for its profusion of Victorian cemetery art.

Historic Oakland Foundation was founded in 1976, the same year Oakland was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Foundation partners with the City of Atlanta to preserve, restore, enhance, and share Oakland Cemetery with the public as an important cultural resource and an island of tranquility in the heart of the city.

For more information about donations, tours, events, and other ways to support Oakland, please visit www.oaklandcemetery.com or call at 404-688-2107.

Fun and interesting people are going ‘Back to the Chatt’ on June 15

2013-06-10T12:37:00.001-07:00

The 11th Annual Back to the Chattahoochee River Race & Festival will be held on Saturday, June 15, and promises to be bigger and better than ever.

Presented by Chattahoochee Riverkeeper in partnership with the National Park Service and the city of Roswell, “Back to the Chatt” begins at 9 a.m. at Garrard Landing Park on Holcomb Bridge Road and includes competitive and recreational categories for kayaks, canoes and stand up paddle boards.

This 8-mile course includes scenic rapids and concludes at Riverside Park, the site of the free, family-friendly festival, music and awards presentation.

The race is welcome to paddlers of all skill levels and ages, so at any given moment you'll see a paddler ripping through the water and others taking in the beautiful scenery of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. And of course all racers will be treated to a couple of complimentary brews from the SweetWater Beer Barge on the way to the takeout!

The free festival at Roswell’s Riverside Park, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., is a family-friendly event with live music, food, children's activities and environmental exhibitors.

The music lineup features awesome potential interviews in headliner Jimmy Hall and Friends, with the lead singer of Georgia Music Hall of Fame inductee Wet Willie (“Keep On Smilin’”); the Women of Rock trio of Caroline Aiken, Diane Durett and Donna Hopkins; and the Music Matters “Rock U” Bands!

Kid-friendly activities include appearances by Captain Planet and One More Generation's Bag Monster, Georgia Disc Dogs, and zombie face-painting (Professor Morte, "Atlanta's Horror Host.") Learn more about the event activities here.

Visit the event page for more info here, and check out highlights from last year's event! Also, if you'd like to sign up as a volunteer, register here.

Community Events We Love: Adopt-a-Senior for Father's Day

2013-06-10T11:19:00.002-07:00

Imagine if you were a senior citizen in a nursing home and NO friends or relatives ever came to visit you…not even for holidays. Neighbor Love, a ministry of E CUBED International, wants to brighten the day of a WHOLE BUNCH of valuable seniors. Adopt-a-Senior for Father’s Day is a GREAT way to let a valuable senior know that someone still loves them. E Cubed International is hosting a Father’s Day party and is giving gift bags to seniors at four nursing homes in Metro Atlanta. At the party, Barberito’s Mexican of Roswell they'll be supplying a taco buffet for the men to enjoy!

The gift bags will include: shaving cream, socks, a carnation, a hand-made Father’s Day Card, and a puzzle book. (exact contents of gift bag are subject to change according to availability of merchandise and the amount of donations received) The sponsorship to Adopt-a-Senior for Father’s Day is just $20 per gift bag. You can sponsor as many seniors as you would like. A donation of ANY amount is appreciated.

Visit: www.adoptasenior.net to donate and volunteer.

DEADLINE to Adopt-a-Senior for Father’s Day is Saturday, June 15^th.

Thought Of The Day

2013-06-09T18:48:00.000-07:00

Move It Movement Tour Comes To Life at The Fernbank Museum

2013-06-07T12:42:00.002-07:00

The Move It Movement Tour, a mobile, interactive tour event that motivate, energize and educate kids and families about living an active lifestyle had a successful preview at the Fernbank Museum.

The tour kicked off in Atlanta, GA and will wrap up in Houston, TX on August 12^th. At each of the tour stops, kids and families will experience a range of sports and games – from basketball and soccer, to football and golf – that will help them get the 60 minutes of daily activity they need to stay healthy.

In addition, each tour stop will feature a Let’s Move! booth where kids and parents can sign up to earn a Presidential Active Lifestyle Award (PALA+). PALA+ challenges kids to be active and for 60 minutes a day and fuel up with healthy foods over a period of six weeks. The Let’s Move! booth will also offer healthy recipes and other nutrition and activity tips designed for families.

By hosting these free events and encouraging healthy, active lifestyles, Cartoon Network and its partners are helping to advance First Lady Michelle Obama’s goal of ending childhood obesity within a generation. “By finding the activities you love, and then getting up and getting active for an hour a day, you’re showing the rest of us that being healthy isn’t just good for you, it’s fun, too,” says First Lady Michelle Obama.

Visit www.MoveItMovement.com to find out if the tour is coming to an area near you!

Tales of Animal Rescue: Meet Weebit! The Tiny Kitten With The Big Heart

2013-06-07T10:50:00.000-07:00

Weebit, the tiny kitten with the big heart came to Georgia SPCA with a broken jaw. He has been recovering at home ever since and is returning to the shelter on June 12th. I sometimes like to call him "slinky" because he likes to sleep in the oddest positions. He is super funny, super lovable and oh so fluffy! He is an "Alpha Cat" meaning that he like to be the boss and when he wants something he will let you know. He gets along well with other cats and dogs and he loves to take naps on your lap. If you want to pre-adopt Weebit (he still needs to get neutered) please send me a message, or contact the shelter at 678-765-2726.

PHOTO RECAP: Legends of CHIMA 4D Movie Previews at Atlanta Legoland Discovery Center #CHIMA4D

2013-06-07T08:34:00.003-07:00

On Thursday June 6th, Atlanta Legoland Discovery Center, welcomed a selected group families, to preview the much anticipated new Legends of CHIMA 4D movie.

The new 12 minute animated 4D film, complete with high-impact special effects, will immerse audiences in the fantastical LEGO world of Chima where tribes of animal warriors compete in epic battles for “CHI” – a mystical energy source of limitless power and destruction.

The story follows four young animals as they take a guided tour of the island of Chima with Plovar the Parrot and become entwined in a struggle between good and evil as they help their hero, Laval the Lion Prince, do battle with Cragger the Crocodile King.

For a thousand years, the animal tribes of the land of CHIMA have been living in oeace. Now fighting over the powerful natural resource, CHI, the Lion, Crocodrile,Eagle, Wolf, Gorilla, Raven, Rhino, and Bear tribes are in turmoil.

The Lion tribe, led by Prince Laval, was the first tribe to drink ancient pool of CHI and have become its sworn protector. Since its discovery, the animal tribes of CHIMA have become dependent on this source to power their vehicles, gear and themselves, For some time, the Lions had always share the CHI equally amongst all CHIMA tribes; however, some of the other tribes began to get greedy.

Not wanting to upset the balance of CHI in the land, the lions worked to keep the peace, while the Crocodiles worked to obtain more CHI. Once a pristine, natural paradise, CHIMA has become a battle ground for these eight animal tribes.

State of the art 3D animation and 4D technology brings the audience right into the heart of the journey as they plunge into dramatic landscapes, fly through the magical waters of Mount Cavora, soar over the majestic Speedorz™ Arena of Chima in a high speed chase and find out who wins the day, good or evil.

The new LEGENDS of CHIMA 4D Movie Experience will debut at LEGOLAND Discovery Center on Saturday, June 8. Guests can take advantage of popcorn and beverages while enjoying a sneak preview of the new movie before the general public, but the fun doesn’t stop when the movie ends! Children will have an opportunity to meet Laval, and they can also build Speedorz to race and visit the Model Builder’s Academy to participate in additional LEGO building fun! To book your tickets CLICK HERE!

Explore Nevada's Natural Wonders With Southwest Airlines Vacations Vegas Deal

2013-06-06T13:00:00.001-07:00

This post brought to you by Southwest Airlines Vacations. All opinions are 100% mine.

Las Vegas is one of those places that you really need to take your time to explore. Besides the casinos, live shows, and the never ending nightlife, there is another side of Vegas that most people don't take time to explore.

There are two places in Vegas that I'm dying to see. The first one is the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and the second one is Lake Tahoe. The Red Rock Canyon area is, arguably, the most beautiful area in Nevada—perhaps the southwest. It is located about 15 miles west of Las Vegas, and easily seen from the Las Vegas Strip. The area is visited by over 1 million visitors each year.

Lake Tahoe is a major tourist attraction in both Nevada and California. It is home to a number of ski resorts, summer outdoor recreation, and tourist attractions. Snow and skiing are a significant part of the area's economy and reputation.

Lake Tahoe is also the home of the famous Wanderlust festival, a one-of-a-kind festival bringing together the world's leading yoga teachers, top musical acts and DJs, renowned speakers, top chefs and winemakers, and much, much more - all in a setting of breathtaking natural beauty.

Hot air balloon flights available over Lake Tahoe and the Carson Valley. If you are feeling adventurous and want to impress your better half, this might do the trick.

If you are planing a Las Vegas Vacations you might want to take advantage of the amazing Southwest vacations deals.

Southwest Airlines vacations offers vacation packages to more than 80 destinations with flight service available from every scheduled Southwest Airlines departure city. Travelers can customize vacation packages to include flight, hotel, car rentals, show tickets, attractions passes, tours and more.
With Southwest Vacations, your Bags Fly FREE! A savings of up to $120 round trip!Visit http://bit.ly/17K9dzg for more information on Southwest Airlines Vacations!

How much can you save in a Las Vegas Vacations?

Save up to $100 + 25% on the Hotel Stay! (The Quad Resort & Casino - Center Strip)
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Southwest Airlines Vacations is always promoting the BEST Vegas deals around!
Save some money and take advantage of this deal before it's gone.

For more information visit Southwest Airlines Vacations!

Adorable Southern Gentleman Available for Adoption! Meet Licorice!

2013-06-05T15:06:00.000-07:00

This cute southern boy came to Georgia SPCA when he was 2 days old and I've been fostering him ever since. He has a sister with the most beautiful grey fur. Licorice loves snuggling with her sister and is very active at sundown. Licorice is a typical "Tuxedo" cat with white paws and chest. One look in those green eyes and you'll be smitten! Licorice will be at the shelter on June 12. If you want to see him before this date or start his pre-adoption, please send me a message and we can meet at the shelter.

http://www.georgiaspca.org/

{GIVEAWAY} Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat Comes to Life at the Center for Puppetry Arts June 13 - July 28

2013-06-05T10:43:00.000-07:00

Comical classic jumps from the page to the puppet stage this summer

Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat is set to delight audiences this summer, making its Center for Puppetry Arts debut June 13-July 28. The story features everyone’s favorite moments with Sally and her brother, their pet Fish, Thing 1 and Thing 2—and, of course, the story’s namesake, that famous Cat in the red and white striped hat! Zany fun and adventures abound in this memorable tale!

The classic children’s book was originally adapted and directed by Katie Mitchell for the National Theatre of Great Britain and was a smash hit in London.

The show is now being produced across the U.S. and the Center for Puppetry Arts is thrilled to realize this delightfully funny story through puppetry.

Under the direction of Jon Ludwig, the Center’s team has been diligently working to create the puppets, scenery and props from scratch, faithfully adhering to the iconic Seuss style.

Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat features tabletop puppetry, animation and a whole bag of tricks to pull off the Cat’s daring feats. Performing the familiar characters are skilled puppeteers Dolph Amick, Aaron Gotlieb, Reay Kaplan, Rudy Roushdi, Amy Sweeney and Tim Sweeney.

“We are having a blast adapting this excellent actor version for the puppet stage,” said Jon Ludwig, director of the show and the Center’s Artistic Director. “Audiences will feel like they have stepped right into the book. I know that this was the book that got me reading, and I can’t wait to share the wonderful world of Dr. Seuss with our audiences!”

Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat is presented in the Mainstage Theater, June 13-July 28, 2013. Show times are as follows:

· Tuesday – Friday: 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

· Saturday: 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

· Sunday: 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Giveaway: Win 4 tickets for Cat in the Hat. Just leave us a comment and make sure you register your entry using our Rafflecopter giveaway widget. We like to make it easy for ya :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Center for Puppetry Arts will be closed July 4; no performances on that date. Tickets include museum admission as well as the Create-A-Puppet Workshop (or To-Go Kit), where children can make their own The Cat in the Hat shadow puppet. TICKETS ARE $9.25 (MEMBERS) / $16.50 (NONMEMBERS) AND CAN BE PURCHASED ONLINE AT WWW.PUPPET.ORG OR BY CALLING THE TICKET SALES OFFICE AT 404-873-3391.

Events We Love: Legends of CHIMA Weekend at Legoland Atlanta

2013-06-05T09:31:00.000-07:00

The new LEGENDS of CHIMA 4D Movie Experience will debut at LEGOLAND Discovery Center on Saturday, June 8. Join Laval the Lion Prince in the World of Chima as he battles Cragger the Crocodile for the precious energy source, CHI.

Guests can take advantage of popcorn and beverages while enjoying a sneak preview of the new movie before the general public, but the fun doesn’t stop when the movie ends! Children will have an opportunity to meet Laval, and they can also build Speedorz to race and visit the Model Builder’s Academy to participate in additional LEGO building fun!

If this wasn't enough, we've got a CHIMA scavenger hunt that will keep you on your toes regardless of whether this is the first time you have visited our attraction or one of many! Complete the scavenger hunt and you could be the lucky winner of a FREE Annual Membership!

To book your tickets CLICK HERE

Aruba "One Happy Island"

2013-06-03T02:00:00.001-07:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Aruba Tourism Authority for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Aruba, one happy island that contains everything you need and more! Whether your a foodie, the adventure type, or a beach bum, Aruba has everything at you want at your fingertips! Away from the beaches Aruba is a desert island full of cacti, iguanas, goats, donkeys, strange boulder formations and even the remains of a Spanish gold mine. Contrasting sharply with the resort area's serene beaches, the north coast features craggy limestone cliffs, giant sand dunes, and crashing breakers. You'll find the overwhelming majority of Arubans are genuinely friendly and welcoming. With little history of racial or cultural conflicts, the island has no cause for animosity. As the license plates say, it's One Happy Island. Though Dutch is the official language, almost everyone speaks English and Spanish.

Things to do in Aruba:

1. Activities: Sharp geographical differences create a unique combination of land and sea activities. Calm, glittering turquoise waters fringed by marshmallow-soft ivory beaches neighbor a national park encompassing a wild windward coast and unsettled rugged interior.

Quiet horseback rides and leisurely beach walks are good for the soul. Hikers can explore twenty rugged miles of trails in Arikok National Park. Golfing combines the challenge of constant trade winds and tropical sun with desert beauty and sweeping Caribbean views. Tour the island from the comfort of an air-conditioned motor coach or on a jeep safari. Be sure to exercise caution on mountain bikes and all-terrain vehicles!

The water is calm and perfect for swimming at resort areas. Challenging wave conditions and constant trade winds attract an international host of windsurfers as well as kite surfers and wave sport enthusiasts. Hop aboard a pleasure boat or luxury catamaran for a day of sailing. Rent a jet-ski, sunfish, wave-runner or tube for some wet 'n wild fun. Reel in dinner on a fishing excursion or kayak tranquilly along the mangrove coast. Shallow coral formations await snorkelers but reef and wreck diving reveal a brilliant underwater fantasy.

2. Beaches: Fringing turquoise Caribbean waters, kissed by the sun and cooled by constant trade winds, Aruba’s beaches include wide shaded expanses, quiet retreats, and busy sunbathing and water sports meccas. Much of the seven-mile strip along the west coast is lined with resorts and packed with activity. Beachgoers relax on their comfortable lounges, lost in their favorite book or enjoying people-watching. Swimming, snorkeling, kitesurfing, waterskiing, tubing, parasailing, banana-boating, and all kinds of wet ‘n wild adventures are just steps away on Aruba's beaches.

In contrast, the Caribbean beaches along the windward coast are in more secluded and undeveloped areas. Overlooked by craggy desert terrain, this stretch of Aruba beaches is home to magical coves carved out of limestone and inlets formed by the relentless pounding of waves. Because of strong undertow and crashing waves, swimming here is not recommended. But the Caribbean beaches on Aruba’s wild coast do afford tranquility, privacy and unique natural phenomena. Both coasts afford spectacular, glittering Caribbean views that will surely take your breath away. All Aruba beaches are open to the public.

3. Shopping: Shoppers will find an enormous selection of international brand name products and prices that are 10 – 35% lower than those in the United States. Jewelry store-lined streets and upscale malls with prestigious international brands fill the downtown area while gleaming new shopping/entertainment centers front the high-rise resorts.

Aruba offers a bountiful selection of newly constructed shopping/entertainment centers in the high-rise resort area and downtown store-lined streets and upscale malls, as well as a potpourri of unique boutiques and emporiums. Gleaming shops are brimming with diamonds, gold and silver jewelry, timepieces, perfumes and cosmetics, state-of-the-art electronics, beach and resort wear, designer apparel and accessories, lingerie, fine linens and china, collectables, handicrafts and souvenirs. Friendly, knowledgeable and multilingual salespeople will assist you wherever you go.

With a modern bus station, sparkling new shops, prestigious international brands, and restored historic buildings, downtown Oranjestad has a fresh face. A few miles away, the high-rise hotel area has recently added three new and exciting shopping centers complemented by restaurants, movie theatres and nightly entertainment to the jumping, bustling strip.

Downtown stores are open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 am to 6 pm; if a cruise ship is in port, some open on Sunday. Shopping hours vary in and around the hotels; some stores remain open to 9 pm. Though personal checks are not accepted, major credit cards, travelers’ checks, and US currency are welcome.

4. Restaurants: On Aruba, the abundance, full flavor and diversity of cuisines prepared by world-class chefs; fine international wines; casual, elegant and creative ambiances, and attentive service combine to create very special dining experiences at out Caribbean Restaurants.

The high-rise strip is now home to over 100 resort and independent restaurants. This bustling area is dotted with an eclectic patchwork of shops, malls, cafés and Caribbean restaurants. But do venture downtown and off the beaten path to discover local favorites and trendy new establishments. No matter where you go, you will find an eclectic menu of delicious ethnic and international fare.

Classical delicacies such as frogs' legs, duck, venison, foie gras and chateaubriand join fresh Caribbean catch such as mahi-mahi and wahoo, Argentinean churrasco, Middle Eastern shoarma, Japanese sushi and teppanyaki selections, Spanish tapas, Indian curries, Caribbean jerk ribs, homemade pastas, USDA choice steaks, Maine lobster and local goat stew and keshi yena. Indeed, the tiny island nation of Aruba provides an impressive world culinary tour rivaling the most cosmopolitan of cities.

5. Attractions: World-renowned beaches along the resort-lined west coast fringe turquoise Caribbean waters, kissed by the sun and cooled by trade winds... Secluded beaches off-the-beaten path along the wind-whipped coast afford magnificent panoramas.

See the sights! Explore natural wonders throughout Arikok National Park, the Casibari and Ayo rock formations and Indian caves. Walk through history at the Bushiribana gold mill, Aruba Aloe Factory and Alto Vista Chapel. Museums in downtown Oranjestad include the new state-of-the-art Archaeology Museum and the fascinating Numismatic Museum. Kids will enjoy all the creatures at the Butterfly Farm, Ostrich Farm and Donkey Sanctuary.

6. Events: The Aruba calendar is filled not only with traditional holiday celebrations but also with international tournaments, caribbean festivals , competitions, regattas and sporting events; film, art, food and music festivals, and other cultural events. It reflects the island's treasured heritage and multi-cultural history and also the elements that attract hundreds of thousands of tourists.

Carnival is a thrilling show of over-the-top pageantry, brilliant costumes and fantastic music. It is a fun-filled season that begins on November 11 at 11:11 am when the Prime Minister symbolically turns the country over to the Prince and Pancho, and formally ends before Good Friday with the burning of the King Momo effigy. The months in-between are filled with contests and jump-ups. The two final weekends feature the Pajama Parade in San Nicolas and the Lighting Parade in Oranjestad. Grand daytime parades shut down Aruba's two cities.

Do check the 2013 calendar to see all that is happening!

7. Nightlife: Aruba nights add excitement to the island's quiet desert island persona. Mingle with locals and tourists at any of the scores of casual beach and pier bars that dot the southwest coast from downtown Oranjestad to the far end of the high-rise strip. Weekly managers' cocktail parties and daily happy hours are island traditions.

Cruises depart from Palm Beach piers; hop aboard for a sunset sail, romantic nighttime interlude or a wild party with rope swing. At resorts, carnival shows and Las Vegas-style revues boast talented dancers and brilliant costumes. Sumptuous outdoor theme night buffets are perfect "stay at home" entertainment. Ten exciting resort casinos offer non-stop after-dark gaming action, lively house bands and exhilarating ambiance.

he high-rise area now rivals downtown Oranjestad for trendy venues and after-hours haunts, from karaoke and martini bars to upscale bistros and casual pubs. The strip comes alive after dark with shops, kiosks, movie theatres, cafés,

8. Getting around: Getting around Aruba is quick and easy. Bus service to and from downtown Oranjestad and resort areas is reliable and inexpensive. Taxis are always available and have set rates. Many visitors rent a car for at least one day to see the sights beyond resort areas.

Driving is on the right side of the road, foreign and international driving licenses accepted. Free parking throughout the island, no right turns on red light. Click here to view the road signs in Aruba.

While many tour in the comfort of an air-conditioned motor coach, if you are more daring may prefer a jeep or all-terrain vehicle during your Aruba travel!

Visit http://www.aruba.com to learn about all the wonderful things that Aruba has to offer or like their Facebook page to just salivate with all the scrumptious food and all the stunning pictures they post of their drop dead gorgeous beaches. I have been wanting to visit Aruba for as long as I remember. For me if you don't take me to the ocean, is not a real vacation. The waves of the ocean soothes me, it's always been a kind of Zen experience for me. The ocean is so magnificent, peaceful, and awesome. The rest of the world disappears for me when I'm at the beach.

Samaritans 2013 Hope Event Highlights The True Meaning of Happiness

2013-06-02T18:13:00.000-07:00

Samaritans Inc., is a non-denominational, not-for-profit volunteer organization whose purpose is to alleviate despair, isolation, distress and suicidal feelings among individuals. They also educate the public about suicide prevention and the stigma associated with suicide. They accomplish this through services that emphasize confidential, nonjudgmental, and compassionate listening. Their annual 2013 Hope event was dedicated to "The True Meaning of Happiness” found in the hope, healing and connections. Please watch the video which is the centerpiece of this year program. To make a donation in support of the hope events, click here: app.etapestry.com/cart/Samaritans/default/item.php?ref=1834.0.925739083

http://www.samaritanshope.org/

Thought Of The Day

2013-06-02T11:25:00.000-07:00

"Happiness resides in the simpler things in life, although it often takes experiencing the complicating and painful to discover that truth."

David Roppo

Freebies We Love: Geninne's Bird Theme Desktop Wallpaper Calendars

2013-06-01T15:39:00.000-07:00

Geninne is a passionately curious artist/crafter, living with her husband Manolo, two teenage sons and a cute border collie named Turbo. She has the cutest blog "Geninne's Art Blog" where she showcase her latest creations. Every month she creates a new desktop wallpaper calendar for people to download for free. Every calendar has a different bird from her collection. Please visit her blog to download the calendars and don't forget to say thank you for sharing her work with the rest of us!!
http://www.geninne.com/

Thought of the Day: Relationships Are Like Birds

2013-06-01T13:52:00.000-07:00

Handle relationships with care, if not you will lose out forever....

Campaigns We Love: UNICEF 2 Lives: 2 Miles Apart #thisability

2013-06-01T11:20:00.001-07:00

SEE THE CHILD BEFORE THE DISABILITY

2 Lives: 2 Miles Apart is a series of films that highlights crucial issues impacting children in an urbanized world. This year UNICEF is highlighting the lives of two young persons who live with disabilities within the same country. They want to display in a positive way how they overcome barriers and what has to be done to further improve their lives.

The countries featured are Malaysia, Armenia, Turkey, Uruguay, Mozambique, and the United States. With English subtitles and International Sign Language.

The above video "Health," showcases how early diagnosis and intervention enable children of all abilities to reach their full potential. Meet Alanur and Azad, both 8 years old, living in Turkey, making music – and living with autism. Luckily, their parents were able to get the support they needed early in life. Now, they thrive in school. Each year, UNICEF’s flagship publication, The State of the World's Children, closely examines a key issue affecting children. The State of the World’s Children website includes digital versions of report component such as supporting data, statistics and stories in addition to online only features.

To watch more 2 Lives: @ Miles aprt videos please visit: http://www.unicef.org/sowc2013/two_lives_videos.html#pid2349