Oct/Nov/Dec 2011
a la b a m a
baby
contents
w w w . a l b a b y m a g . c o m
& child
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PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Cecilia Pearson EDITOR AT LARGE L a Tanya Bayles
features
DESIGN
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Amy Heise Murphree
Abigail’s Hope Holiday Festivals & Events
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Charles Ghigna Jane Longshore CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Becky Abernathy AD DESIGN Karyn Hallman
departments 06 08 14 16
Expert Q & A: Toddler Manners 101 Parent’s Choice: Once Upon A Time Moms Helping Moms: Volunteer Opportunities Make Room for Baby: Nursery Design
DISTRIBUTION Pearson & Associates
in every issue
Lifestages Publishing Inc., Copyright 2004-2011. Lifestages Publishing Inc.
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publishes Alabama Baby & Child quarterly. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Publisher assumes no liability for
Editor’s Letter Babyface Scrapbook Boutique Shopping Guide Backpage
unsolicited art, photographs, manuscripts, or other material. Disclaimer: Statements and opinions expressed in Alabama Baby & Child are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Lifestages Publishing Inc. Information provided should not be interpreted as medical instructions; editorial content is not intended as medical advice. Consult appropriate healthcare professionals prior to taking any action. Although great care has been taken in compiling and checking the information given in this publication to ensure accuracy, the authors, Lifestages Publishing Inc., and its servants or agents shall not be responsible or in any way liable for the continued currency of the information or for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this magazine, whether arising from negligence or otherwise or for any consequences arising therefrom. The appearance of an ad in Alabama Baby & Child does
On the Cover Ava at 8 months daughter of Jason and Becky. Photographed by Becky Abernathy
not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.
contact us LifeStages Media 130 Wildwood Pkwy. Suite 108-204 Birmingham, AL 35209 t. (205) 924-3636 www.albabymag.com www.babypaloozatour.com www.albabymag.com 3
from the editor I LOVE EVERYTHING about the magazine business, except the last few days of deadline. I find it nerve-
wracking waiting for the final pieces of information to come in, and reading an article over and over again to make sure some mistake wasn’t missed, and hoping nothing goes wrong at the printer. I liken it to labor, a process that for many is painful and excruciating, but once the baby arrives the memory of pain is overshadowed by joy. This issue hasn’t gone to the printer yet but I’m already overwhelmed with pride because of the incredible story on page 20 that the Dahlen family allowed us to share with each of you. It’s an incredible journey of heartbreak and triumph that had me weeping one moment, smiling the next, and feeling totally uplifted by the end. Also like having a baby: putting a magazine together is something one cannot do alone. There is an extremely talented pool of writers, photographers, graphic designers, friends and family members who rally around to help get this baby put together and delivered each time. I am extremely grateful for each of them. And as we head into the season of thanksgiving and celebration, please check out our family holiday event planner starting on page 27. Remember, the print issue is your guide but we post regular updates and new articles online so we can share and interact with you every day. See you online,
Cecilia “CC” Pearson
24/7 @ albabymag.com
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expert q&a
toddler manners 101 B Y K AT H I E B . M A R T I N , A P R
Toddlers can learn simple manners surprisingly early, setting the stage for a mannerly life. Before you begin, however, strike a pact with your spouse and the child’s grandparents to model the behavior you expect from your child. 1. Teach your child to say “please” and “thank you” whenever it’s appropriate. Ask him to please hand you the crayon he’s just decorated your wall with and then thank him. If you can manage a smile, all the better. Then you can explain why he should use paper. 2. As your child’s verbal skills increase, add to his vocabulary with “May I?,” “Excuse me,” and “I’m sorry.” 3. Help your child learn how to share. When he’s with another child, give him two cookies and ask him to share with his friend. Help him understand that everyone can be happy if he and his friend take turns playing with a favorite toy. This lesson should progress to showing respect for someone else’s things. K AT H I E B . M A RT IN , A P R
Kathie is the President of The Etiquette School of Birmingham. The school provides business and social etiquette counseling and train-
4. Encourage your child to greet adults he hasn’t met before with a handshake, eye contact, and a “hello.” Try preparing him and practice in advance. (By the way, this isn’t just for boys—girls should shake hands as well.) 5. Require the use of a utensil instead of the hands to eat at the table. Start with a spoon and graduate to a fork when you feel she can handle it.
ing for adults and children. Details be found at www.etiquettebham.com or by contacting Kathie via e-mail etiquetteschool@bellsouth.net or phone 205-222-0932.
6. Teach chewing with the mouth closed and talking only with an empty mouth, explaining (but not demonstrating) why it’s important. 7. Teach your child not to interrupt you when you are talking with another adult, but to place a hand on your arm when he needs to ask you something. Then break off from the conversation as quickly as you can to talk to him. If your child forgets to offer his hand for a shake, skips an occasional “excuse me,” or gives into the temptation of eating both cookies without sharing, don’t despair. The important lessons of respect, courtesy, and kindness will eventually become second nature as long as you consistently reinforce the lessons taught and you practice what you preach.
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Chace Lake Station 4741 Chace Circle, Hoover 205-982-4444
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HOOVER gymboreeclasses.com
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a w a r d s w i n n e r
parent’s choice awards Profile: Once Upon A Time, LLC, Linda Flaherty Category: Top 3 - Best Furniture Store
Crestline Village 201 Country Club Park Mountain Brook, AL 205) 870-7772 Homewood Central District 2900 18th Street South Homewood, AL 35209 (205) 870-777 onceuponatimellc.com
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SINCE OPENING in 1996, the shop has become a Crestline institution, the go-to destination for customers others in search of classic, specialty children’s clothing, linens, furniture, and accessories, as well as nursery design. Coowner Linda Mayer Flaherty laughs as she says, “At the time [the shop opened], I often joked about my children not being ready to be mothers, but I was ready to be a grandmother so I opened a baby store.” Flaherty got her start making custom linens for nurseries, which she turned into a business called Nursery Décor. She was studying interior design at Southern Institute at the same time, and
as part of her class work, was one of a group of students who designed a twin’s nursery for the 1994 Decorator’s Showhouse. While working on the nursery, she saw an advertisement for a European crib she thought would be perfect for the project. She imported two Simon Horn Cots (as they are called in Europe) for the room, and after the success of the Showhouse, took the cribs to a consignment shop to sell. The first one sold within two hours, and the second shortly thereafter. The shop owner wanted more of the cribs, and so began Flaherty’s 10-year career as the exclusive American representative and importer for Simon Horn Furniture.
a w a r d s w i n n e r Despite her success with Simon Horn Furniture, Flaherty felt a new dream flickering to life. So she started researching opening a children’s shop. She was put in contact with Merrill McCullough, who became her partner in Once upon a time, LLC. A year after opening the shop, the pair purchased The Heirloom Shop in Crestline, and six months later, agreed to separate the business. “Merrill preferred the clothing and took The Heirloom Shop, and I preferred the design end so I took Once Upon a Time, LLC,” says Flaherty. Once upon a time became a family endeavor in 2005 when Flaherty’s daughter Sarah began working with her, and in 2009, became a partner. That was a big year for the mother and daughter as they expanded the business and opened a second location in Homewood. ALABAMA BABY & CHILD:
Can you tell us a little about
your family? LINDA FLAHERTY: I am the second of four girls, and am
married to Matthew Joseph Flaherty, Jr. In November we will celebrate 42 years of marriage. We have two daughters: Julie-Ann and Sarah. Jules, as I call her, is our oldest. She is a teacher and lives with her husband Leo in Waltham, Massachusetts (I miss her terribly!) Sarah is our youngest and also a partner with me in the business. She and her husband Michael live in Birmingham with their three children, Jay (4), Parker (soon to be 3), and William (6 weeks). I thank God for these blessings every day. ABC:
What is it like to work with your daughter?
LF: As a parent I have always been proud of my children
and their accomplishments, but it wasn’t until Sarah and I started working together that I actually saw her as an adult. She has brought new ideas and energy to the business, and is a real partner in every sense of the word.
What is your favorite thing about being a retailer? LF: The diversity of my business is what keeps me passionate about being a retailer. Whether it is designing custom linens, selecting product at market, changing the floor and window displays, or registering a customer for shower gifts, I love it all! I know our customers have many choices to shop for baby things, so I am very grateful to have the opportunity to work with them at a time so that is so important in their lives. It is the satisfaction and smile on customer faces that make it all worthwhile. ABC:
See a sample of their work on page 16.
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Shop KID ROW @ Heights Village
moms helping moms
community volunteer opportunities Join us and other moms as we volunteer for programs that help other women and children.
ALABAMA BABY & CHILD MAGAZINE has
bution through Salvation Army's Angel Tree pro-
created a volunteer team with Hands on
gram. Please dress for a warehouse atmosphere!
Birmingham to serve charity projects that specifical-
Volunteers must be at least 15 years old!
ly help women and children. You can join our team by going to www.albabymag.com and signing up to volunteer. Just click “moms helping moms” and
ZOOLIGHT SAFARI
register for the volunteer projects. Once you register
DECEMBER 10 - 31, 2011
we will send you more details about the project.
Each year for ZooLight Safari, the Birmingham Zoo
There are no fees or minimum time commitment. You may volunteer for a project for one day or one hour, it’s up to you.
asks for volunteers to make this a fun and exciting event. It takes about 40 volunteers for ZooLights each night to help make this fun for the
Please join us for the following November and
family and kids that come. I
December p r o j e c t s :
There are many different positions for volunteers to help out with such as: managing games,
NATIONAL FAMILY VOLUNTEER DAY NOVEMBER 19 National Family Volunteer day is an annual day of service held on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and is
candy stations, passing out maps, giving directions, helping load and unload the train, staffing train crossings for safety, and lots more. Volunteering is generally finished by 9:30 pm at the latest.
designed to demonstrate the power of families who choose to volunteer together to support the communities in which they live and serve. Volunteering provides quality time for busy families, strengthens communication and bonds and positively impacts local communities across the nation
ANGEL TREE GIFT DISTRIBUTION December 12 - December 23 Put on your Santa hat and assist the Salvation Army pass out the Angel Tree gifts! The day will involve moving bags of toys, assisting clients to their cars, and much more. Join us for these special days of
TOY WAREHOUSE STARTS NOVEMBER 21 We need your help sorting, arranging and bagging gifts and toys for children in preparation for distri-
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our program! Volunteers must be at least 15 years old.
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Holiday Festivals Events &
A family-friendly guide to art, music, theater, and holiday festivals
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October
October 7-9, 14-16, 20, 23, 27, 30-31
Cinderella
Wear your favorite costume for the 17th Annual Boo at the Zoo! Make your way through safe t r i c k - o r-t reat & game zones, organized by local non-profits and child-centered businesses. Ride the train and Ghastly Carousel. 5-9 pm.. $8 Details 205879-0409 or www.birminghamzoo.com.
Birmingham Children's Theatre Cinderella has it tough, but she does the work without complaint and with a smile on her face. In this timeless story, Cinderella’s kindness, hard work, and selflessness help her overcome the obstacles she faces. Details 205-458-8181 or www.bct123.org.
October 1-31 (Weekends only) Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
October 29-30
The Pumpkin Patch Express
Birmingham Children's Theatre Legend tells us that the Headless Horseman roams the village of Sleepy Hollow under the full moon forever looking for a head to replace the one he lost, but is it true? This retelling of the classic tale by Washington Irving will capture your imagination as Brom Bones and Ichabod Crane duel for the affection of the beautiful Katrina. Details 205-458-8181 or www.bct123.org.
The entire family will enjoy an autumn ride aboard the Pumpkin Patch Express. Join in the fun as we visit the pumpkin patch for a hayride, jumpstation, cornstalk maze, coloring, fun tattoos, and good ol’ fashioned boiled peanuts! Pick your favorite pumpkin from the patch (additional charge for pumpkin). Adult $15, Child (2-11) $10, Under 2 Free Details: 800-943-4490 or www.hodrrm.org.
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October 22 & 29-30
Boo At The Zoo!
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
November November 2-6
Disney on Ice: Mickey and Minnie’s Magical Journey BJCC Arena Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy have their bags all packed for a journey that will transport audiences straight from their seats into the magical worlds of best friends Lilo and Stitch as they hula in Hawaii; Simba and Nala as they explore the African Pride Lands; Ariel and Sebastian as they experience an aquatic adventure in their undersea kingdom; and Peter Pan and Tinker Bell as they soar through the starry skies. Details 205-715-6000 or www.ticketmaster.com. November 5-6
Moss Rock Festival The Preserve, Hoover Hoover, will be a regional focus for art, design and environmental lovers everywhere with the return of the Moss Rock Festival, appropriately named because of its juxtaposition to Hoover's very own 250 acre Moss Rock Preserve. This unique fall festival will be celebrating nature, open spaces, and eco-ideas through art and design. Details 205595-6306 or MossRockFestival.com. November 11-13
Willy Wonka Junior Red Mountain Theatre Company Roald Dahl's timeless story of the world famous candy man and his quest to find an heir comes to life in this stage adaptation of Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, with a memorable score that features "The Candy Man," "Pure Imagination," "Oompa Loompa" and "I Want it Now" by Academy and Grammy Award winners Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley. Details 205-324-2424 or www.redmountaintheatre.org. November 12 and 19
Hogwarts Night at the Zoo The Zoo will have enchanting games and activities for visitors throughout the day, and will transform in the evening to host a special event complete with incredible Hogwarts classes that every fan of this unforgettable series will want to experience. Details 205-879-0409 or www.birminghamzoo.com.
November 26 - December 18 (weekends)
NORTH POLE EXPRESS Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum “All Aboard” says the conductor, and your journey begins. Through the dark night, the magical train speeds to the top of the world! Upon arrival at the brilliantly decorated North Pole, Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves board the train to visit with everyone, so be sure to bring your camera! You'll enjoy chocolate milk and cookies and sing Christmas carols along with the live musician, Mr. Jim. Listen to a special Christmas story and receive a Christmas gift.
Disney on Ice: Mickey and M i n n i e ’s Magical Journey
NEW in 2011 - First class service to the North Pole! The Silver Maple and Kayenta railcars will offer first class service - hot chocolate in a souvenir mug, special dessert treat, premium gift and specialized service. Wear your pajamas! Coach $25, First Class $45, Under 2 Free. Details 800-943-4490.
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c a l e n d a r
December
November 25 - December 24
December 1-18
A CHRISTMAS MEMORY
Holly Jolly Holidays
Alabama Shakespeare Festival The aroma of pecan pie and the flicker of candles in the window banish the December chill of a 1930s Alabama winter. This musical version of Truman Capote’s enchanting holiday tale follows the deep friendship and delightful shenanigans of cousins Buddy and Sook, who make the most of what may be their last Christmas together. Details 8800-8414273 or www.asf.net.
Red Mountain Theatre Company Continue your holiday tradition with the RMTC Youth Programs and Birmingham favorites, as they help ring in the season with Holly Jolly Holidays. From the hilarious to the whimsical, RMTC's original holiday productions have something for everyone. Take our "Walk Through Bethlehem" and celebrate a show that's sure to get you in the holly jolly spirit! Details 205-324-2424 or www.redmountaintheatre.org.
Through December 18 (weekends)
NORTH POLE EXPRESS Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum “All Aboard” says the conductor, and your journey begins. Through the dark night, the magical train speeds to the top of the world! Upon arrival at the brilliantly decorated North Pole, Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves board the train to visit with everyone, so be sure to bring your camera! Sing Christmas carols along with the live musician, Mr. Jim. Listen to a special Christmas story and receive a Christmas gift. Coach $25, First Class $45, Under 2 Free. Details 800-943-4490.
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December 2-11
CHRISTMAS ON SAND MOUNTAIN Virginia Samford Theatre Marvin and Charlene Pritchard's home is again the setting as the Sand Mountain residents we've come to love all meet one evening before Christmas to work on the upcoming pageant. Cloretta, Earl the sheriff, Rev. Watkins, Cactus Clay and more will be back - along with some new Sand Mountain residents to help spread the holiday cheer. Full of original songs by Norton Dill, the latest installment in his Sand Mountain trilogy promises great fun for the whole family. $20. Details: 205-251-1206 or www.virginiasamfordtheatre.org.
c a l e n d a r
December 2-4 Broadway in Birmingham presents
December 9-18
Cirque Dreams Holidaze
Samford Wright Center One of six companies in the world licensed to perform Balanchine’s holiday m asterpiece, Alabama Ballet presents its seventh annual performance of The Nutcracker™. Opulent sets and dazzling costumes create a vision that will enchant children and adults alike. Don't miss the Sugar Plum Parties, a m agical afternoon of activities, photos, and refreshments with the cast for children holding tickets. One hour prior to the matinees. $30-$50. Details 205-975-2787 or www.alabamaballet.org.
Birmingham Jefferson Civic Center Created and directed by Neil Goldberg, CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE is an original new musical extravaganza filled with spectacle, imagination and whimsical dreams. Ornaments come to life as costumed characters who perform astonishing feats that celebrate the holiday season and showcase pageantry, ingenuity and breathtaking artistry. An international cast of acrobats, aerialists, singers, dancers and musicians fill this Cirque Dream on stage, in the air and while dangling from a 24 foot tall magical tree. Details 205-458-8489 . December 3-4 & 10-11
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™
December 9 - 31 (weekends)
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
Zoolight Safari
Birmingham Children's Theatre It’s Christmas Eve, all is quiet in the house and everyone is sleeping… or at least we thought they were! Welcome the holiday season with this adorable adaptation of the classic Christmas Eve poem and introduce your children to new types of literature. This story has been shared as a Christmas tradition for generations and can now be experienced like never before in this enchanting, LIVE production! “Now, dash away, dash away, dash away A LL!” Ages 2-6. Details 205-458-8181 or www.bct123.org.
Birmingham Zoo Enjoy a fabulous night of lights, fun and holiday spirit as the Birmingham Zoo comes alive for 13 nights! It's the only place in Birmingham where it snows every night. Also, enjoy an expanded light show synchronized to all your favorite holiday tunes! 5-9 p.m. Free for Members, Non-members: $8. Details 205-879-0409 or www.birminghamzoo.com.
December 3-4 & 10-11
Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka Birmingham Children's Theatre “Oompa Loompa, Doompadee Doo!” Charlie Bucket has found one of the prized golden tickets and he is ready to see where Willy Wonka makes his delectable sweets! You will be thrilled by a scrumptious stage presentation featuring musical favorites “Pure Imagination” and “Think Positive!” during Charlie’s adventure in the chocolate factory. This incredibly imaginative holiday treat based on the work by Roald Dahl sends a timeless message of valuable character lessons: honesty, patience, and the importance of listening. Don't miss this one, or else you might be turned into a blueberry! De tails 205-458-8181 or www.bct123.org. December 19-11
The Nutcracker Birmingham Ballet BJCC Concert Hall Birmingham Ballet’s The Nutcracker features aerial ballet along with captivating illusions and masterful story telling. Audiences love this fun and breathtaking classic that includes traditional choreography and fresh surprises each year. The cast features high quality professional dancers joined by over 200 talented youth and community dancers. Details 205-979-5139 or www.birminghamballet.com
December 16 & 18 Opera Birmingham
Home for the Holidays Brock Recital Hall, Samford University Opera Birmingham's annual family-friendly concert provides the perfect way to celebrate the season with friends and family! Traditional carols and popular holiday favorites will be performed by a quartet of talented singers that will make this concert a highlight of your celebrations!Details 205-3226737 or www.operabirmingham.org. December 17 ArtPlay presents
Yuletide in Dogtown Alys Stephens Center You've seen A Christmas Carol, and seen The Nutcracker, so why not make it a Christmas tradition to spend a little time in Dogtown? Yuletide in Dogtown, an interactive musical journey, is back by popular demand. Join Spike, Fifi, Scotty, and Beauregard on this musical adventure created by local playwright Jerry Sims, as his pups learn what the holidays really mean. This is a show your whole family will love! Adults $10 Kids $8. Details 205975-2787 or www.alysstephens.uab.edu.
Yuletide in Dogtown
Visit Alabama Baby & Child magazine online at www.albabymag.com for more calendar events.
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babyface book Moms, dads, and grandparents share photos.on our Facebook page.
CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE :
Will SUBM ITTED BY NICO LE
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Henley SUBMITTED BY AMY
Kadie, JR, Kendly SUBMITTED BY KIERA
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poems from father goose BY CHAR LES GHIGNA
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Snuggle Bunny Snuggle Bunny my sweet honey pink bow in your hair angel face full of grace answer to my prayer heaven’s child your sweet smile brighter than the sun warms my heart when we’re apart two hearts beat as one
Charles Ghigna (Father Goose) is an award-winning poet, children's author, speaker, and nationally syndicated feature writer who helps promote the love of poetry and children's literature throughout the world. www.FatherGoose.com
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