Wandering Wisconsin with Kids

Sand Mandala construction by Tibetan Monks - Memorial Union Madison

2009-09-15T12:41:00.002-05:00

From September 16-20, Tibetan monks from The Mystical Arts of Tibet will be creating a sand mandala in UW-Madison's Memorial Union Great Lounge. This is a fantastic learning opportunity for your children.

From Wikipedia: The Sand Mandala is a Tibetan Buddhist tradition involving the creation and destruction of mandalas made from colored sand. A sand mandala is ritualistically destroyed once it has been completed and its accompanying ceremonies and viewing are finished to symbolize the Buddhist doctrinal belief in the transitory nature of material life.

Photo Credit: Mai Le, San Francisco, CA

The Mystical Arts of Tibet will also perform on Saturday evening, September 19th at the Wisconsin Union Theater. "Endorsed by the Dalai Lama as a means of promoting world peace and healing through sacred performing art, the monks of the Drepung Loseling monastery make their return to Madison. Known for their remarkable multiphonic singing and their elaborate sand mandala art, the Monks perform using traditional Tibetan instruments and in traditional garb . Says the San Francisco Chronicle, “The voice of serenity, the voice of survival and a hopeful message of peace.”

Watch and join the monks as they create a sand mandala at the Memorial Union’s Great Lounge:

Mandala Construction Schedule:

Wednesday, 9/16, 2009
Mandala Opening Ceremony: 4 pm

Thursday, 9/17-Friday, 9/18
Mandala construction: 11 am – 6 pm

Saturday, Sept. 19
Mandala construction: 11 am - 4 pm

Sunday, Sept. 20
Mandala Construction: 11 am - 1 pm
Mandala Closing Ceremony: 2 pm

The Tree Farm - Madison Area's Best Veggies

2009-06-30T07:53:00.003-05:00

The Tree Farm

Apologies in advance: Today's blog is going to read like a commercial, or at least like a testimonial.

To our family, summer equals fresh vegetables. Fresh vegetables means trips to The Tree Farm to pick our own fresh vegetables.

Now, you can buy vegetables from your local farm market, but is it really fresh? Was it really grown locally? There's no question of harvest time or date at the Tree Farm. As their motto states, "When you pick it, you know it's fresh!"

The Tree Farm opened for the season on Saturday, June 27th. On that day, my daughter and I picked garden snap peas. Chris, the owner, encourages "quality control" while picking peas. Hannah sampled plenty and after inhaling several, pronounced them "delicious."

Prices are incredibly reasonable! Sugar snaps peas at Brennan's on the same date were $3.99/pound. Freshly picked at the Tree Farm were $1.95/pound.

For people in the know, picking vegetables at The Tree Farm is an annual tradition. Hard-working employee, Susan, told me that there weren't any garden peas left to pick that date, because they had all been picked already. It seems that a local family's tradition is to pick garden peas on opening day. Three generations join together for this bonding activity.

We are still awaiting the arrival of our favorite vegetable, which is kohlrabi. Chris sells human-head-sized kohlrabi for the incredibly low price of 49 cents EACH! Steamed kohlrabi tastes like a sweeter cauliflower.

In the fall, picking ears of blue, red, and calico popcorn is mandatory! Yummy stuff and you'll leave Orville Redenbacher's "packing peanut-like popcorn" behind!

When you arrive at the Tree Farm, stop at the top of the hill, and grab a map. This sheet will inform you as to what's ripe, pricing, and a map to each veggie's location. Have questions about anything at the Farm? Chris or Susan are more than happy to assist customers.

If you visit, check the website to see what's ready to be picked. It is updated daily.
http://www.thetreefarm.org/

Hours: Open Wed, Thurs, Fri 9-12 and 4-8 Sat and Sun 9-5

In Northwestern Dane County, Wisconsin, serving Madison and the surrounding area.
8454 Highway 19
Cross Plains, WI 53528

Important note: BRING YOUR OWN CONTAINERS!

(From Waunakee, just past Indian Lake on the right hand side.)

Sharing Stories - Wisconsin Historical Museum

2009-06-24T14:11:00.001-05:00

One of my fave kid singers, Stuart Stotts is making an appearance as an author!

Sharing Stories With Young Readers

Nothing is more rewarding in the history business than sharing with children the stories locked up in everyday people, places and things. This summer the Wisconsin Historical Museum will foster just that in its new Sharing Stories series. This summer children can bring their parents and/or grandparents to meet the authors of some of the Society's popular children's books. These renowned authors will tell the stories of real Wisconsin people and places while teaching children how to create and share their own stories.

Meet the Authors, Share Their Stories
Here's a complete lineup of the museum's Sharing Stories programs this summer:
If Trees Could Talk, Thursday, June 25, at 10 a.m. —

If trees could talk, what stories would they tell? Join If Trees Could Talk author R. Bruce Allison as he shares his answers to this fascinating question while introducing children and parents to noteworthy Wisconsin trees, both past and present.

Casper Jaggi: Master Swiss Cheese Maker, Thursday, July 16, at 2 p.m. — Did you ever wonder why Swiss cheese has holes in it? Find out through the story of Casper Jaggi, a cheesemaker who came to Wisconsin as a young man from Switzerland. Author Jerry Apps shares the story of this man who grew up in the cheese business.

Curly Lambeau and the Green Bay Packers, Thursday, July 30, at 10 a.m. — Author Stuart Stotts shares the story of the man responsible for keeping the Packers playing in Green Bay. Hear the fascinating details of the origins of the National Football League and, of course, the Packers themselves.

Ole Evinrude and His Outboard Motor, Thursday, August 13, at 2 p.m. — Find out how a love for boats and a girl turned into the creation of the outboard motor. Author Bob Jacobson will share the inspiring story of Wisconsin entrepreneur Ole Evinrude, who helped make Wisconsin the center of the outboard motor industry for decades.

All programs take place at the Wisconsin Historical Museum on Madison's Capitol Square. Your program donation of $2 helps us offer quality exhibits and programming.

Arboretum Happenings during Summer

2009-06-24T14:06:00.001-05:00

The following events are especially designed for children and families. The events are free, thanks to support from Friends of the Arboretum.
GENERAL ARBORETUM EVENT INFORMATION:

Events are open to the public, and tours take place regardless of weather unless the naturalist decides it would be unsafe. Call 608-263-7888 if in doubt. Unless otherwise noted, tours begin at the Arboretum Visitor Center. Visit our Web site at uwarboretum.org

June 27 - Saturday, 1-3 p.m.

"If Trees Could Talk." Madison arborist and author R. Bruce Allison will talk about and sign copies of his latest book written especially for children, "If Trees Could Talk," featuring trees that have an important story to tell about survival, respect and celebration. The event concludes with a walking tour of Longenecker Gardens led by Allison.

June 28 - Sunday, 1-3 p.m.

"Moth Madness and Interesting Insects."
Learn fun ways to identify insects, while discovering how plants and animals depend on these six-legged creatures. Adopt a cecropia moth caterpillar to rear. Bring a clear 2 liter bottle to make a rearing cage and go home with cecropia eggs and information. Dress for the weather; outdoor and indoor activities are planned.

July 12 - Sunday, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
"Butterflies." Warm, sunny days in July are the best times for seeing lots of butterflies and other fascinating insects that visit flowers on the prairie.

July 26 - Sunday, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
"Nocturnal Animals." Hike with our naturalists and learn about our nocturnal animals. Activities using our senses will demonstrate some of the amazing things these animals can do. Dress for the weather; outdoor and indoor activities are planned.

August 9 - Sunday, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
"Pond Stuff." This walk introduces children to the fascinating world of pond life.

August 23 - Sunday, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Arboretum Earth Partnership for Families: "Remembering Laura Ingalls Wilder -- Prairie Fire." Awesome prairie fires surprised Laura’s family when the prairie was a boundless expanse. Experience these momentous events through Laura’s eyes and learn why fires are necessary and beneficial for the prairie. Take home a “flaming” windsock to remember this fun evening. Dress for the weather; indoor and outdoor activities planned.

FREE FISHING & National Trails Day & State Parks Open House Day

2009-06-05T09:05:00.003-05:00

National Trails Day - June 6th - See events here:
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/news/events200906.html#06

State Parks Open House Day - June 7th - See events here:
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/news/events200906.html#07

FREE FISHING WEEKEND - June 6th - 7th - Info here:
http://dnr.wi.gov/fish/kidsparents/freefishingweekend.html

Summer Science at Edgewood!

2009-06-05T08:54:00.004-05:00

Some Fun Educational Camps at Edgewood!

Summer Science Camp for Kids
- June 22-26, 2009 - Grades 1-3 $125.00
- July 6-10, 2009 - Grades 4-5 $200.00

Bodies in Motion
Come to the Edgewood College Campus for a week of active science discovery. We will explore the physics of motion of everything from our own bodies to stellar bodies. The camp is led by an Edgewood Physics Professor and other seasoned teachers.

Strategy Game-athon
- August 3-7, 2009 - Grades 6-8
9:00am-12:00 noon daily $125.00

Strategy games help students to develop their sequential logic and problem solving skills. Unlike video games and computer simulations these games involve interpersonal interaction, negotiation, and hands-on components. The science department encourages engagement in these kinds of games as they help build the skills necessary for complex problem solving work.

If you are looking for a good late-summer way for your child to get geared up for school...without them realizing it...this is for you.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS TODAY!!! 6/5/09
http://natsci.edgewood.edu/calendars/default.htm

Cows on the Concourse

2009-06-02T12:12:00.001-05:00

Cows on the Concourse

30th Annual Cows on the Concourse
Saturday, June 6, 2009
8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Rain or Shine!

Event Admission
FREE

Location:
Capital Square, Madison, WI
Main Street & Martin Luther King Boulevard

Event Highlights:
- Visit three cow petting areas
- Ask our "Moo Experts" your bovine questions
- Tempt your taste buds with ice cold milk, grilled cheese sandwich, and cream puffs
- Stay for lunch, visit our grilled cheese stand
- Enjoy live entertainment
- Visit with special guests

Arboretum EVENTS

2009-06-02T11:55:00.000-05:00

GENERAL ARBORETUM EVENT INFORMATION:

Events are open to the public, and tours take place regardless of weather unless the naturalist decides it would be unsafe. Call 608-263-7888 if in doubt. Unless otherwise noted, tours begin at the Arboretum Visitor Center. Visit our Web site at uwarboretum.org

June 14 - Sunday, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Arboretum Family Walk: "Who's that buzzing in your ear?" Discover the fun and fascinating world of insects on a walk especially tailored to families.

June 27 - Saturday, 1-3 p.m.

Arboretum Special Event: "If Trees Could Talk." Madison arborist and author R. Bruce Allison will talk about and sign copies of his latest book written especially for children, "If Trees Could Talk," featuring trees that have an important story to tell about survival, respect and celebration. The event concludes with a walking tour of Longenecker Gardens led by Allison.

June 28 - Sunday, 1-3 p.m.

Arboretum Earth Partnership for Families: "Moth Madness and Interesting Insects."

Learn fun ways to identify insects, while discovering how plants and animals depend on these six-legged creatures. Adopt a cecropia moth caterpillar to rear. Bring a clear 2 liter bottle to make a rearing cage and go home with cecropia eggs and information. Dress for the weather; outdoor and indoor activities are planned.

July 12 - Sunday, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Arboretum Family Walk: "Butterflies." Warm, sunny days in July are the best times for seeing lots of butterflies and other fascinating insects that visit flowers on the prairie.

July 26 - Sunday, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Arboretum Earth Partnership for Families: "Nocturnal Animals." Hike with our naturalists and learn about our nocturnal animals. Activities using our senses will demonstrate some of the amazing things these animals can do. Dress for the weather; outdoor and indoor activities are planned.

August 9 - Sunday, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Arboretum Family Walk: "Pond Stuff." This walk introduces children to the fascinating world of pond life.

August 23 - Sunday, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Arboretum Earth Partnership for Families: "Remembering Laura Ingalls Wilder -- Prairie Fire." Awesome prairie fires surprised Laura’s family when the prairie was a boundless expanse. Experience these momentous events through Laura’s eyes and learn why fires are necessary and beneficial for the prairie. Take home a “flaming” windsock to remember this fun evening. Dress for the weather; indoor and outdoor activities planned.

New Glarus Community Fest

2009-05-22T10:19:00.001-05:00

New Glarus Community Fest

May 22-25, 2009
All activities are at the New Glarus Village Park unless otherwise noted

ALL WEEKEND:
Games
Face Painting
Inflatable rides
Climbing Rock Wall
Western Shooting Gallery

FRIDAY, MAY 22:
5pm - Concessions Open
5pm - Festival Rides Open
6:30pm - Music by “New Glarus High School Jazz Band”
8:00pm - Music by “2nd Thought” Classic Rock

SATURDAY, MAY 23:
7:15am - Registration Fun Run/Walk
8:30am - Kids Community Fest Mile
9am - 5K Run/Walk
9am - Co-ed Volleyball Tournament (with cash prizes!)
9am - Battleball Tournament
Noon - 4H Petting Zoo
1:30pm - Music by “Cold Ground & Low Sky” Alternative Rock
4:15pm Music by "Raindogs" Blues/Rock
8:00pm Music by "Super Tuesday" Rock

SUNDAY, MAY 24:
10am - Kickball Tournament
Noon - 4H Petting Zoo
Noon - Music by “Jug Prairie” Country Rock
1:45pm - Music by "The Invaders" Classic Rock
4:00pm - Music by "4xDaily” Pop & Rock Cover
8pm - Music by "Copper Box" Blend of everything! Rock, Zydeco, Polka with a little Blues, Country & Tejano

MONDAY, MAY 25:
9:30am - Memorial Day Parade
Veteran's Day Program at the High School Following Parade
Noon - Variety of Local Talent –Kinderchor 10th Reunion

Ronald McDonald House Celebrates 16 Years in Madison

2009-05-22T10:16:00.001-05:00

Sweet Sixteen Open House at the Ronald McDonald House

Date: May 23, 2009
Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
City: Madison
Location: Ronald McDonald House Charities of Madison

After sixteen years of providing a 'home away from home' for families with children receiving treatment at Madison area hospitals, Madison's Ronald McDonald House celebrates this anniversary with a Sweet 16 Open House.

The community that so generously helped build the House 16 years ago can take pride in knowing the House has offered a place of respite for thousands of families who understand the anxiety of dealing with a child's serious medical condition. We invite the community to re-connect with our mission and ask them to join us in celebrating 16 years of service.

The Sweet 16 Open House will take place on Saturday, May 23, 2009, from
10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Ronald McDonald House, 2716 Marshall Court in Madison, WI.

Ronald McDonald himself will be on hand to sing “Happy Birthday” and visit with the crowd. Activities will include House tours, Care Mobile tours, face painting, balloon animals, red noses for the kids, Oscar Mayer hot dogs, Coca-Cola and, of course, what is a birthday party without cake and ice cream for everyone?

Memorial Day Parade - Monona

2009-05-22T06:46:00.003-05:00

Everyone enjoys the thrill and pageantry of a parade! Join the Celebration of 54 years for Wisconsin's largest and longest running Memorial Day Parade which will consist of more than 100 units. For everyone's enjoyment, there will be military color guards, clowns, marching bands, live animals, fire trucks, scouts, floats, antique autos, local elected officials, dance groups and much more.

The 1.5 mile parade route will start just past Monona Grove High School and travel south on Monona Drive disbanding at Owen Road.

After the parade brief Memorial Ceremonies will be held at Blooming Grove, Roselawn Cemeteries and Highland Memory Gardens. To honor those who have and are serving our country.

At Work and at Play at Wade House

2009-05-15T11:19:00.000-05:00

At Work and at Play at Wade House

Saturday, May 16, 2009 - Sunday, May 17, 2009 10 am-5 pm

Come help Wade House get ready for spring. Prepare and plant the gardens, fill straw ticks, air out quilts, make beds, black the stove, and sweep floors. Experience behind-the-scenes tours of the Herrling Sawmill, making an "S" hook project in the blacksmith shop, candle dipping, and log skidding. On Sunday only, take in the sights and sounds of vintage base ball as it was played (and spelled) in the 1860s. Come celebrate the household duties, the trades, and the fun that helped shape this 160-year-old community.

Ticket Info:

Adults $11; children (5-17) $5.50; students and senior citizens (65 and over) $9.25; family (two adults and two or more dependent children 5-17) $30. Horse-drawn transportation on the site included in ticket cost.

Location Info:

Venue: Wade House

Wade House, an 1860s stagecoach inn built to serve traffic along the plank road that connected Fond du Lac and Sheboygan, tells the story of frontier entrepreneur Sylvanus Wade and his family during the Civil War years. In addition to the inn, the historic site includes the recently reconstructed Herrling sawmill, one of the few working, water-powered sawmills of its kind in the nation. Wade House is also home to the Wesley Jung Carriage Museum, which houses the state's largest collection of antique carriages and working wagons.

More info here:
http://wadehouse.wisconsinhistory.org/Events/EventDetail/Event691.aspx

Old World Wisconsin Rituals of Spring

2009-05-15T11:18:00.001-05:00

Rituals of Spring at Old World Wisconsin

Just as Wisconsin's 19th-century farmers did when spring rolled around, farmhands at Old World Wisconsin will be busy in the fields on Saturday, May 16, during the outdoor museum's annual Rituals of Spring event. Visitors can expect to see farmers readying the farmsteads for planting, using stock dogs to herd sheep, and hand shearing them before farm women card, spin and dye the collected wool — all as it was done in the late 1800s. At 1:30 p.m. outside Caldwell Farmers' Club Hall, visitors can take in a sheep shearing contest between a father and his son.

Displays of woolen articles and artifacts related to sheep will showcase the animals' importance on 19th-century farms. The value of wool will be further underscored during a quilt turning — in which quilt historian Kathleen Lashley will peel back and discuss samples from a stack of the museum's vintage quilts.

Activities Range from Planting Sorghum to Beekeeping

Meantime, farmhands will be hard at work planting sorghum, a crop that was grown as a less expensive substitute for sugar. The historic gardener will be on hand, too, discussing herbs and their medicinal and culinary uses. Another activity will involve using our newly acquired rope-making machine to make rope that could be used as leads for the sheep, There will also be a demonstration of a small animal-powered treadmill, and visitors can join in activities ranging from soap making to shingle shaving.

Another completely new site feature will also be unveiled — an observation beehive that will allow visitors to see bees in action. The Children of the American Revolution, Wisconsin Chapter, has been instrumental in raising funds for this project. The observation hive was donated by Lapp's Bee Supply, and the Milwaukee-Waukesha Beekeepers Association provided the bees.

For complete details on admission, location and contact information, visit the Old World Wisconsin visitor information pages.

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Sun Prairie Library Anniversary & the Sassy Cow Creamery Celebration

2009-05-15T07:41:00.003-05:00

Thanks to Pamela for the two events below! Happy Friday!

Sun Prairie Library Anniversary

The Sun Prairie Public Library will celebrate its 10 year anniversary on May 16 with balloons, cake, games, read to the dog, scavenger hunts, and an art exhibit. There will even be fire engines, police cars and an ambulance on display in the library parking lot. All are welcome to attend the event, which runs from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday.

At the Sassy Cow Creamery!

Sassy Cow Creamery, a family-owned farmstead milk bottling business, announced May 11 it will celebrate its one year anniversary with a Celebration Event open to the public on Saturday, May 23 from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

"We have had an outstanding first year here at Sassy Cow with overwhelming support from all of our customers and community," said James Baerwolf, owner, Sassy Cow Creamery. "Our anniversary event is a great way to follow last year's successful grand opening, and is our way, at Sassy Cow, of saying 'thank you' for your business. We are happy to open our doors and raise awareness about the source of dairy products."

Featured anniversary events

• Farm and creamery tours

• Music by local musician David Cox

• Sassy Cow product specials

• Samples of local products

• Pedal tractor races

• The chance to meet the newest Sassy Cow dairy calf

• A variety of fun contests for adults and kids

Sassy Cow Creamery is located at W4192 Bristol Rd., Columbus. From Hwy 151, take the Bristol Street (Hwy N) Exit. Head North on Hwy N and travel seven miles. Look for the big red barn on your left.

Sassy Cow Creamery is a farmstead milk bottling business owned and operated by brothers James and Robert Baerwolf and their families. Sassy Cow provides organic and traditional bottled milk, heavy cream, churned cream, ice cream, milkshakes and ice cream cakes to the local area, all derived from farm-fresh, rBGH-free milk produced on both on the Baerwolf dairy farms. Sassy Cow believes in hosting a variety of informational and educational events to encourage awareness about the source of dairy products.

For more information, visit www.sassycowcreamery.com.

Numerous Madison Area Kids Events!

2009-05-13T07:35:00.005-05:00

Family Trailside Backpack Program at Aldo Leopold Nature Center

Enhance your exploration of nature with our Family Trailside Backpack Program. This self-guided program is designed for families to learn together, at their leisure, as they wander the trails at the Nature Center. To help you explore we provide a Backpack with an easy-to-understand Exploration Guide and tool-kit. Activities may be used with children of all ages. Seasonal backpacks allow your group to explore nature as it changes with the seasons. Backpack themes are Spring is in the Air, Crawling Critters, Amazing Adaptations and Snug in the Snow. We also have a Fabulous Forests theme that is loaded with facts and fun.

Program Fee:
Members: FREE
Non-members: $5/ family
$10 for Daycare and Scout groups

Drop-in hours are Monday through Friday, typically 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. To ensure availability, please call in advance to reserve the backpacks. Backpacks were generously donated by REI.
More info here:
http://www.naturenet.com/alnc/dropinprogs.htm

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Badger Trolley Tours at the Arboretum

Sunday, May 17 • 1 pm – 3 pm

Free narrated tours aboard the Badger Trolley begin at the Visitor Center at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. See what’s in bloom in Longenecker Gardens, view our prairies and woodlands in spring color and learn more about the Arboretum’s history and purpose.

More info here:

http://uwarboretum.org/events/

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Remarkable Rubber Ducky River Race - May 16th

The Madison Mallards Baseball Team,Madison Parks, and the Madison Parks Foundation are teaming up to host the first ever ‘Remarkable Rubber Ducky River Race’ at Tenney Park on the Yahara River. The fun-filled event will be on May 16 from 2pm – 4pm and all proceeds of the event will benefit the Goodman Pool scholarship fund.

To enter a Rubber Ducky in the Remarkable River Race, there is a $1 entrance fee. There will be a limited number of Rubber Ducky’s available for purchase so we encourage eventgoers to get there as early as possible. Based on the turnout for the event there may be several “heats” with a final race pitting the top contestants against each other. All age groups are welcome to participate. The first 500 participants will get to keep a Rubber Ducky as a keepsake from the event. Prizes for the Remarkable Rubber Ducky River Race will range from passes to the Goodman Pool, to Mallards tickets & more. The grand prize for the winner of the Remarkable Rubber Ducky River Race will be a party for 10 at the Duck Pond on Opening Day (June 1) including the opportunity to throw out the ceremonial first pitch, 10 great seats for the game & a $100 gift card.

“Madison Parks is excited to team up with the Madison Mallards and the Madison Parks Foundation for this event,“ says Kevin Briski, Madison Parks Superintendent. “Strong partnerships, such as this, make for a vibrant Madison park system."

In addition to the Rubber Ducky Race, Maynard G. Mallard will be on hand to greet fans, and kids can test their skills with the Mallards Speed Pitch, T-Ball game & Maynard’s Bounce House. The Mallards 2009 Season opens up with an exhibition game vs. the Swedish National on May 27 & the Regular Season Home Opener is June 1 at 7:05 vs. the Rochester Honkers.

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Critter Club at the Dane County Humane Society

May 24, 2009

12:00pm - 1:00pm

Dane County Humane Society, Madison

DCHS introduces a new club for preschool age children and their parents. The third Sunday of every month, children are invited to come listen to an animal story and related craft.

More info here:

http://www.giveshelter.org/sitemgr/upcoming_events70

Family Horticulture Day - May 9th

2009-05-03T08:49:00.001-05:00

Family Horticulture Day

Date May 9
Time 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
LocationWest Madison Agricultural Research Station, 8502 Mineral Point Rd., Verona
Description: Families can learn how to develop a backyard kitchen garden in a small space: tomatoes, peppers, broccoli and eggplant seedlings will be provided, along with instructions for growing them and directions for sowing vegetable and flower seeds will be available from master gardeners. Horticulture will be a Technicolor experience at Family Horticulture Day. Purple, red and yellow potatoes, red popcorn and green caterpillars will be the features of the day.

LEOPOLD LEAP hosted by Physician's Plus - 5/9

2009-05-02T12:36:00.003-05:00

Leopold Leap! Saturday May 9, 10 am - Noon - Aldo Leopold Nature Center
300 Femrite Drive

Get outside and have fun this Spring at the LEOPOLD LEAP! Kids 12 and under can do the Jackrabbit Jump, Lily Pad Leap, Lizard Lunge and more! Plus, enter to win a Travel Green Wisconsin weekend getaway at the Bayfield Inn in Bayfield, WI and other great prizes.

The Leopold Leap is the second of four GO! seasonal events hosted by Physicians Plus to encourage families to stay active outdoors. So come on out, enjoy the Raccoon Romp scavenger hunt and do the Prairie Chicken Prance!

More info here:

http://www.healthychoicesbigrewards.com/about/getout.asp

Registration form here:

http://www.healthychoicesbigrewards.com/uploads/media/09LeopoldLeap_Registration.pdf

The next Go! event will be held this July at the Henry Vilas Zoo!

UW Arboretum Earth Focus Summer Camps

2009-04-29T09:34:00.002-05:00

UW Arboretum Earth Focus Day Camps

9 year old daughter gives "2 Thumbs up" to these Arboretum camps!

Earth Focus Day Camp (EFDC) consists of three programs: Learning Together, Explorers and Eco-Trekkers. The goals of EFDC are to develop an understanding of how the natural world works, to foster an appreciation for nature, and to nurture the sense of awe and wonder for the natural world.

EFDC 2009 will explore habitats, plants, animals and other ecological principles as we celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Arboretum. Sessions will explore the past, present and future
in age appropriate activities. The summer will conclude with a birthday celebration and a night hike.

Camp activities will include outdoor discovery hikes and observations, hands-on science experimentations, and nature free play. If you have been to camp in past years look for new and exciting experiences. Campers are encouraged to ask questions, play, share, create, discover, construct and cooperate with each other.

Campers must come prepared to spend time outdoors. They must have long pants, hats and closed-toe shoes. Mid-morning snacks are provided.

Loads of info here:
http://uwarboretum.org/education/efdc/EFDC09webbroch.pdf

UW Space Place - Planet Trek - Bike event & Solar System exploration

2009-04-29T09:14:00.002-05:00

Saturday, June 20
9AM – 12PM
FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Bring your bike or walking shoes and take a free guided tour of our solar system! Planet Trek is an at-scale model of our solar system installed by UW Space Place. Your journey will begin at "The Sun," located outside Monona Terrace in Law Park, and end 23 miles down Military Ridge Trail in Mt. Horeb, home of "Pluto." Tours will leave the Monona Terrace Exhibition Hall every half hour. Leave the tour whenever you like, or take it at your own pace. (Traveling beyond Saturn will require a trail pass and can be purchased on-site.) While you wait for your journey to begin, take in the stunning exhibit, "From Earth to the Universe," in the Exhibition Hall. Over 40 amazing images will be on display including exploding stars. See what happens when two galaxies collide!

This Planet Trek installation is available through October. For a COOL map of the route and for more information visit: http://spaceplace.wisc.edu/.

Lakeside Kids at Monona Terrace - Wednesdays

2009-04-29T09:11:00.001-05:00

Lakeside Kids at Monona Terrace

Wednesdays, 10-11AM
FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Come to Monona Terrace on Wednesday mornings and enjoy this fun children’s program. Local performers and organizations will provide entertainment, hands-on fun, and learning for children ages 4 to 8.

Programs will be held on the rooftop unless otherwise indicated. In the event of inclement weather, program will be moved inside. Please call 608.261.4000 after 8:30 a.m. the day of event for program location.

June

17 Okinawan Taiko Drummers of Wisconsin - West High School

24 Summer Passport Kick-off Event - 10AM to 12PM
Exhibition Hall - 6 Activity Stations!

July
08 Story Yoga for Kids - Clare Norelle, Musician and Storyteller
Hall of Ideas

15 YMCA Activity Hour
Exhibition Hall

22 "As Strong As I Can Be" - The Banana Lady

29 MadTown Twisters All-Star Cheerleading

Home Depot Workshops for Kids

2009-04-28T13:53:00.002-05:00

At the Home Depot

Kids Workshops at the Home Depot are free, "How-to Clinics" geared for children aged 5-12. The workshops are held each Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.

Saturday, May 2nd - Wheelbarrow; Saturday, June 6th - Hardware Sorter

The Home Depot's Kids Workshops offer useful projects including the creation of toolboxes, fire trucks and mail organizers, as well as more educational projects, such as a window birdhouse, bughouse or Declaration of Independence frame kit.

The workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, this fun time allows for quality one-on-one time between adults and children.

In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates' aprons, and an achievement pin.

More info here:
http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ContentView?pn=Kids_Workshops&langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053

Gustafer Yellowgold at High Noon Saloon 5/9

2009-04-28T08:47:00.004-05:00

Gustafer Yellowgold SHOWS!

From the website:

Gustafer Yellowgold concerts are a unique blend of live music and moving image. The minimally animated illustrations are accompanied by illustrator/songwriter Morgan Taylor’s catchy and original story-songs for a truly different multimedia experience that is entrancing children, teens and adults alike.

Gustafer is a friendly creature who came to Earth from the sun and has an unusual magnetism for making friends with some of Earth's odder creatures. His best friend is Forrest Applecrumbie the flightless Pterodactyl. Gustafer and Forrest built a small cottage-style home on the edge of an uncharted wooded area in Minnesota. He has a pet Eel named Slim (short for Slimothy) and a pet Dragon named Asparagus who lives in his fireplace and loves corn on the cob. Gustafer's pals, the Mustard Slugs practice their math under the shrubbery.

Since his creation in 2005, Gustafer Yellowgold has become an international phenomenon, acclaimed by the New York Times, which said, “The show is a cross between ‘Yellow Submarine’ and Dr. Seuss.” Entertainment Weekly praised “…The most infectious original songs. It’s like tapping into some pleasure center in the brain- both adult and kid…absurdly appealing. Grade: A.” New York Magazine named Morgan Taylor “Best Kids’ Performer” in its 2008 Best of New York Awards. Take a look at Gustafer’s MySpace page to see what his fans think!

Musical Performance - BARNES & NOBLE

Thursday May 07, 2009 11:00 AM
West Towne Mall, 7433 Mineral Point Road, Madison, WI 53717, 608-827-0809

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High Noon Saloon presents Gustafer Yellowgold

A Thoreau Elementary School Benefit

Saturday, May 9th 1:00 PM / $10 cover FAMILY FRIENDLY Event Will Run From 1pm-4pm, Kids 2 & Under Are FREE

“The most unique musician on the kids' music scene today is Morgan Taylor. He's the genius behind Gustafer Yellowgold, the musical phenomenon that is finding an audience among both children and adults. What makes Taylor's music so appealing is the effortless blending of pop melodies and slightly absurd lyrics to tell a fantastical story about a little yellow creature, named Gustafer Yellowgold, who likes to make friends and jump on cakes, among many strange hobbies. The music is like a cross between The Beatles, Wilco, and Dr. Seuss.” (A Family Runs Through It)

More info on Gustafer here:

http://www.gustaferyellowgold.com/

Being Amish - A visit to Wisconsin's Amish Country

2009-04-26T10:11:00.004-05:00

Visiting the Amish

My friends have frequently told me about their trips to Amish Country, so I made a pledge this spring to make the journey. Last Friday, my sister in law and I arose at o'dark thirty, to drive from Waunakee to the Pardeeville area of Wisconsin. We were told that it is of the utmost importance to arrive at the Pleasant View Bakery as soon as they open for business at 8 a.m.

Driving to the bakery, we passed an Amish school. The "parking lot" was filled with several parked buggies, while the horses stood idly by. Out in a field, many Amish children, boys and girls, were involved in a game of baseball. They were dressed in the traditional black and white clothing. When we drove by their game in our little red Miata convertible, a good number of the children stopped playing to stare, and to wave at us.

Note: Even though you may be busy gaping, drive slowly and alertly. Cars in this area share the road with the Amish's horse-driven buggies. I must admit, this is an unusual sight to behold the first several instances.

When we pulled into the "bakery's" driveway, we noticed many farm buildings and a house. There was no sign that pointed the way to our baked goods destination. Fortunately, another vehicle arrived within seconds. We asked this older German couple, who appeared knowledgeable, where to find the bakery's entrance. They said, "Stick with us, we're old pros and we'll show you the ropes." They took us around to the back screen door of the home. When we entered, our olfactory senses were assaulted with the smells of cinnamon and freshly baked bread. To our right, were hundreds of loaves of all shapes and varieties of breads. Straight ahead, were the infamous cinnamon rolls and sticky pecan rolls, as well as pies. On the counter to our left, freshly baked glazed donuts, and cartons of brown, extra-large farm eggs! I immediately gravitated to the plate of six freshly baked cinnamon rolls. When I picked them up, I exclaimed, "Oh my gosh! These are still WARM!"

We engaged the young Amish clerk in a bit of conversation about the bakery. She told us that they started baking at midnight every Thursday and Friday evenings. Yikes! (The bakery is only open on Fridays and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Pricing: We spent $11.00 on 6 cinnamon rolls, 6 sticky buns, and 2 cartons of eggs.

Our newly found friends advised us, "We bring along our coffee mugs, and then enjoy some warm rolls in the car, before we go to our next destination." What a wonderful plan! We too oohed and aahed over our gooey, sticky delights, before hitting our next stop.

Our next stop was an Amish grocery store named Mischler's Country Store. (Side Note: Sis-in-law stated the first of many times, "I don't think they're open...there isn't any lights on." My new reality show: "Crazy Aunt Peggy Meets the Amish." *sigh*) While they have the typical grocery fare, they also have many bulk items in plastic bags. For example, you can purchase the following goods in bulk: spices, cereal, baking staples (flour, sugar, etc), nuts, popcorn, snacks, etc. Pricing example: 5 pounds of popcorn = $3.95. There are bargains to be had at this fine store.

Next, on our agenda was to return to Miller's Greenhaus. The place was packed and we soon discovered why! I have never seen so many plants in so many varieties at such reasonable prices. Hanging baskets with gorgeous blooming flowers that were 2-3 feet across in diameter were $20. These would be upwards of $40+ in our area. Vegetables in every possible size and variety. Annuals! Perennials! Pricing was easy - a 3" pot = $1.75; A 4" pot = $1.95. I purchased the following for $6.00: 1 bi-color butterfly bush (6" height), 4 ground cherry tomato plants (4" hgt), and 6 strawberry plants. I felt like a thief! My sister-in-law was delighted to find asparagus ready to stick into the ground, as well as perennials that would normally have costed $5-$10 per plant!

Did I mention yet how pleasant our hosts were? When I mentioned that I was looking for ground cherry tomatoes, the older Amish gentlemen stated, "Oh! That is my very favorite pie." Confused, we asked, "Tomato pie?" and inquired what was in the pie. He said, "Oh, let me get my wife to help you with that information." He collected his wife from the back room, and she told us that she would be more than happy to copy the recipe for us. While we continued shopping, she wrote out the recipe onto a card from memory. Later on, she brought us both the recipe AND a bowl of the ground cherry tomato pie filling to sample! Of course, we were shocked by her kindness. My sis-in-law, not thinking before she asked the question, said, "So, can you freeze the pie filling then?" The Amish lady, smiling politely, replied, "I just can our pie filling." Sis-in-law did an internal mental slap which equated to "Duh, they don't use freezers."

After we paid for our items, young Amish boys aged about 4 and 5 years old, helped us carry our purchases to the car. Sis-in-law stated that next planting season, she's coming to the Miller's Greenhaus for all of her vegetable plants.

Enjoy the return to a simpler, friendlier, and slower time and place. Take time to have a conversation with your hosts. You just might learn something from these gentle, hard-working people.

The sights are plentiful here, too. Besides the numerous buggies, there were many Amish plowing their fields with large draft horses. ENJOY! My next trip to Amish country will be with my daughter.

At the intersection of Hwy 22 and CM/Barry Road, there is a restaurant named "Ludlow's Kountry Korner." It is not Amish-owned. My burger was reasonably tasty and fairly priced, but I would pass on the french fries from the freezer next time. Dining options in Amish country are limited at best...unless you can live on cinnamon rolls...yum!

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From Waunakee, take Hwy 51 N. At North Leeds, take Hwy 22 all the way through the town of Pardeeville. At CM (which only goes left), turn right, which is Barry Road. On this road, here are the following Amish businesses:

Schmucker Sewing/Canvas Shop
CVS Windows
Fairview Doors
Weaver Cabinets
Katie's Carpet Shop
Miller's Greenhaus* - See above
Schrock's Sawmill
Miller small engine
Mast's Bent & Dent
Miller Cabinet Shop
Mast's Buggy Shop
Mischler's Country Store* - see above

To reach the Pleasant View Bakery, turn right off of Barry Road onto Kiefer Road. You will see a sign for the bakery.

There are many other Amish destinations in the area. If you would like a map, I can provide one to you, if you provide a SASE. Send me an email if you need my mailing address. (Email: niesgirl@yahoo.com)

Harry Potter Quidditch GAME at the UW Madison - May 8th

2009-04-23T13:07:00.002-05:00

Ok, this is not an April Fool's joke. I think this is an event worth taking the kids to see, especially Harry Potter Fans.

The UW-Madison has formed an official Quidditch team, complete with brooms. See the full article and details here:
http://www.madison.com/wsj/topstories/448200

What: The UW-Madison Quidditch team’s kick-off game.

When: May 8, from 4 to 6 p.m. on Bascom Hill.

There will be a sign-up sheet for college students interested in joining the team.

Saturday Science Workshop GO FLY A KITE at UW Space Place

2009-04-22T08:34:00.001-05:00

Saturday Science Workshop
Sat, 25-Apr-2009, 10:00 am (1:00 hr)

"Go Fly a Kite" - Celebrate National Kite Month by leaning to how to
make and fly your own kite; presented by UW-Madison Physics Outreach.

For more information on the UW Space Place, check our web site at
http://www.eventsgalore.net/cgi-bin/list?cal=uwspaceplace

HAPPY EARTH DAY!