Mobile Bay Parents Holiday Happenings Edition (December 2024)

FromthePublisher

A group of my college roommates planned a little mini-reunion recently. I was so excited to spend a weekend laughing, tailgating, and just hanging out with all of them. The weekend was to start with dinner out Friday night, spending the night at one of the old roommate’s houses, tailgating, attending the game together Saturday, and then just hanging out and laughing the rest of the weekend. I could not wait to go! I even bought a new team sweatshirt to wear, complete with sequin footballs! The day before I was supposed to leave town, the stress of everything that I felt like I had to do before I left started to overwhelm me. I was dealing with pressing magazine deadlines and a house needing to be cleaned (I hate coming home to a mess), and I had no idea what to pack with the fickle weather. My excited mood quickly changed to the point that I just didn’t know if I could do it. I needed everything to be “just so” before I was able to relax and have fun.

Why do we do that to ourselves? Why do we overthink and overcomplicate things? Why do we strive for “perfection” when there really is no such thing? If you are like me, you may find yourself doing that more often than you would like, especially around the holidays. In an attempt to make everything magical for everyone else, we end up losing our own joy. Even sadder, many of the things we stress over don’t even matter to those around us. If this sounds like you, I invite you to join along with me and put into practice Christa Melnyk Hines’s 10 Commandments for More Holiday Cheer. In Hines’s feature, you will find some helpful reminders of things we can do to trade the “have to do” list for a “get to do” list. A great first place to start is outsourcing some of the cooking. There are some great places to help with holiday meals, treats, and more.

And since we won’t be stressing over pressed napkins or perfectly wrapped presents, that means we will have a lot more time to enjoy some of the fun things this holiday season has to offer, and boy, are you in the right place to find holiday activities. In this issue, you will find our annual Holiday Happenings, which is a list of tree lightings, Santa sightings, holiday shows, and much more! And to make sure you don’t run out of fun ideas for family time, this month’s issue also includes Pam Molnar’s feature, An Advent Calendar of Family Fun When I first read Molnar’s feature, I was so excited. These suggestions are definitely going on the fridge, and I am already gathering supplies to make them happen! As if those resources are not enough, you will also find some wonderful community activities in the Family Calendar.

With all that being said, I do hope that you will join me this holiday in trying to be ok with “good enough.” Admittedly, it will be hard for me, but I am going to try and just enjoy the process and all of the good things this season has to offer. Being overtired and stressed opens the door to missing some really wonderful moments. Oh, and yes, I did go on the trip, and I had an amazing weekend with some even more amazing friends!

lynn@mobilebayparents.com

Mobile Bay

Mobile Bay’s Foremost Parenting Source

Mobile Bay Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. Mobile Bay Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@mobilebayparents.com

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@mobilebayparents.com

Research Editor Lucy Green

Contributing Writers

Savannah Browning, MD

Kristi Bush, LSW Christa Melnyk Hines Gabriele Jones

Pam Molnar

Pam Moore

Dave Ramsey Works of Wonder Therapy

Cover Photography

Hannah Stinson Photography www.HannahStinsonPhotography.com

President Jason Watson

Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton ads@mobilebayparents.com (251) 304-1200

Scott Davis

Visit us at www.mobilebayparents.com

Mobile Bay Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 81105, Mobile, Alabama, 36689. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 304-1200. Mobile Bay Parents is copyrighted 2024 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Mobile Bay Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect he view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

Becoming a Student of Your Child

Teachers, counselors, pediatricians, and everyone else who works with children are distressed by how often parents are unaware of how their choices, behaviors, and words may negatively impact development. Emotionally healthy parents raise emotionally healthy children, but becoming healthy requires a tremendous amount of work and effort. Instead of “doing the work” parents often want a “quick fix” for their children’s unruly behavior.

from your children, you must be a willing student.

I truly believe that children are here to teach us much more than we will ever teach them. Children teach us to love unconditionally, protect faithfully, find joy in the little things, overflow with patience, display kindness in difficult circumstances, show gentleness even when they are irrational, and practice self-control. However, to learn

Sometimes, parents are so concerned about controlling their child’s behavior that they stop focusing on becoming a better person. This is the hardest part of parenting that very few people discuss.

First, take the time to self-reflect daily. Every night, ask yourself these three questions and keep notes so you can see your progress.

1. What did you do well as a parent today?

2. What do you wish you had done differently?

3. Should you take any action to correct it? Do you need to apologize to your child? Do you simply need to make a different plan for how you will react in the future?

1. Think about things your child said to you and think about the importance of their words without making assumptions. For example, a bad grade on a test is as crushing to them as being fired would be to you.

2. Did you rush into judgment when you should have been more curious? For example, did you make your child stop playing cars and make them do something with you? Should you have just joined your child in that activity instead?

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com. by

Second, try to see the world through your child’s eyes daily.

3. Identify your priorities and focus daily on what is in your control. What do you care about most? Work, family, your relationship with God, physical fitness, having fun, friendships, etc. If these things are important to you, do your daily actions correctly reflect your priorities? If not, what changes need to be made? Are your actions teaching your children your priorities? If not, what changes need to be made?

Allow your children to help you grow into the best person you can be. Take the time to be their willing student. Stop focusing on their immediate behavior and become intentional about shaping them into amazing adults that you would be proud to know.

Holiday Makers Market and Open House

Join Mobile Museum of Art on December 14, from 2:00pm5:00pm for an afternoon of local shopping, live music, food trucks, art activities, and free admission to the Museum. Support local artisans at the Makers Market, which will feature a variety of handmade items, such as jewelry, pottery, selfcare products, and baked goods. During the Open House, explore MMofA’s

Cookies & Canvas: Holiday Paint Party

Join us for a free, fun-filled event where kids can unleash their inner artists while decorating cookies and painting their very own canvas masterpiece on December 7 from 3:00pm-6:00pm at Mardi Gras Park. Santa Claus will be making a special appearance. While this fun-filled event is FREE, we kindly ask you to register so we can ensure an awesome experience for everyone: www.eventbrite.com.

Magic Christmas in Lights

Nov. 29 – Jan. 5, 2025 | Closed Dec. 25 & Jan. 1 8:00 am – 9:00 pm | Lights Turned on by 5 pm

Explore the enchanting 29th Annual Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens & Home—a festive paradise on the Gulf Coast. Wander through a dazzling 65-acre Garden estate adorned with thousands of lights. The Bellingrath Home adds to the ambiance with holiday finery and poinsettias. Visit

Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas Concert

Get into the holiday spirit with the annual Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas Concert. Join us on Saturday, Dec. 28th at the Saenger Theatre at 7:00pm at the Saenger Theatre. The show includes a performance by The Joe Cool Trio – John Milham (drums), Chris Spies (piano), and Chris Severin (bass) - performing Vince Guaraldi’s Masterpiece Soundtrack, A Charlie Brown Christmas. This year’s show will also feature the vocal stylings of Atlanta’s Ansley Stewart. What makes this event even more special is that a portion of the proceeds will be going to The Child Advocacy Center of Mobile: Helping children in the Mobile community who are victims of child abuse. Celebrate the season with fantastic music and the joy of giving back. We can’t wait to see you there. Tickets are limited, so grab yours today before they sell out. Visit https://www. mobilecivicctr.com/events/detail/a-charlie-brown-jazz-christmas-1.

Mobile Symphony Orchestra’s Christmas Around the World

Baritone Ricardo Jose Rivera joins the orchestra on a global musical journey, featuring beloved carols and festive favorites from nearly a dozen countries. From the timeless melodies of Europe to the rhythmic beats of Latin America and beyond, this concert bridges cultures and traditions, uniting hearts in the warmth and goodwill of the season. Join us on December 14 at 7:30 pm or December 15 at 2:30 pm for the Gulf Coast’s favorite holiday concert. Please visit https://mobilesymphony.org.

Holiday Homes Tour

The fourth annual Holiday Homes Tour will take place on Saturday December 14, 2024, and will feature historic homes and places of worship along Government St. The tour will also feature The Kate Shepard House on Monterey Place. Each location will be beautifully decorated for the holidays. New this year will be a full arts market put together by our friends, Love and Adventure Studios. The market will take place on the grounds of Oakleigh and feature a variety of vendors and food trucks. Baker and Murphy High choirs will be performing at The Historic Oakleigh House. Tickets include a tour of the house and admittance to Candlelight Christmas at Oakleigh that same evening from 5pm-7pm. Photos with Santa will be upstairs at Oakleigh from 5pm-6pm. Please visit https://www.historicmobile.org/event-details-registration/ holiday-homes-tour to purchase tickets.

Milk and Cookies with Santa Claus and Buddy the Elf

Come enjoy milk and cookies with Santa and Buddy the Elf to benefit Azalea City for the Arts on December 21st at 12:30pm at 11 South Carlen Street. Tickets are $10 and include milk and cookies, coffee bar for adults, meet and greet with Santa and Buddy the Elf, digital photo album access from the event. Tickets are purchased at the door.

Holidays at USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park

LODA ArtWalk Celebrates Christmas

LoDa ArtWalk celebrates the Holiday Season on Friday, December 13th. This event will highlight creatives within our community, including visual artists, musical performers, kids zone and more. Come to downtown Mobile to show your support of local artists, arts organizations, and downtown businesses at this fun, family-friendly event from 6-9pm.

Celebrate the Holiday season at USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park on December 8 from 5:00pm-7:30pm and discover what a traditional holiday was like during WWII with fun stories, crafts, music and more. Guests can enjoy the event and tour the USS ALABAMA Battleship. This event is free to the public and will prove to be fun for the whole family. Guests can also purchase refreshments like hot chocolate and beignets from Mo’Bay Beignet Co. RSVP on the event Facebook page today. For questions contact Hannah Nelson at hnelson@ussalabama.com.

Moonpie over Mobile New Year’s Eve Celebration

Ring in the new year with a giant electronic MoonPie drop and a live concert from Grayson Capps and Clint Black. This free event, in its 17th year, has grown to more than 50,000 revelers filling the streets with the festive vibe Mobile is known for.

Festivities on NYE during the day include a Kids Zone with family friendly fun in Mardi Gras Park and a MoonPie Drop for the kids. In the evening there will be a best decorated umbrella contest, the cutting of the world’s largest, edible MoonPie baked by Chattanooga Bakery, and a second line parade led by the Port City Secondliners and the Jukebox Brass Band to the main stage to kick off the evening’s live music. Moments before midnight, we will count down into the new year while the street party peaks with the ceremonial dropping of the world’s largest, electronic MoonPie as the clock strikes 2025. The 12-foot-tall MoonPie will descend from the 34-story RSA Trustmark skyrise to welcome in the new year and the beginning of Mobile’s Mardi Gras season.

Guaranteed to be the best New Year’s Eve celebration in the South, it’s the perfect time to experience the magic of Mobile. Take advantage of special hotel packages as we invite one and all to come stay and play! Visit www.MoonPieOverMobile.com for all the info needed to plan a weekend getaway with the help of Visit Mobile.

Many thanks to our sponsors including – the City of Mobile, Mobile County, Visit Mobile, The Retirement Systems of Alabama and more. For more details and additional sponsorship opportunities, check out our website at www.MoonPieOverMobile.com.

Carpe Diem Santa Run

Join us on Saturday, December 21st at 10:00 am for the Carpe Diem Santa Run at 4072 Old Shell Road. The Santa Run is an annual 2-mile fun-run, walk, bike ride, dog walking, fun-for-the-wholefamily charity event. Dress up in your fun holiday gear and run for charity. Please visit https://www. carpe-coffee.com/ for more information.

KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

The Parent-Pediatrician Alliance

In light of all the events, appointments, milestones, and happenings in your child’s life, have you ever thought of the importance of a stable medical “home base” for your child’s health and development? Your child’s “medical home” is the central place for you to help make medical decisions for you and your child. To this end, it is essential to keep regular contact with your pediatrician.

Your pediatrician is trained to sift through large amounts of information to make sure there are no subtle issues that might negatively affect your child’s best health outcome. For example, even at a seemingly straightforward check-up, your pediatrician is looking through vital signs past and present, physical exams, your past concerns, and other specialists’ notes to make sure everything is on track for proper development and growth.

Your pediatrician is part of a team to make sure your child grows up healthy and to help navigate any problems that might arise. Even if your child has visited many specialists and you feel like it is redundant, it’s still good to keep your pediatrician in the loop. Notes from specialists are great, but they don’t beat a face-to-face conversation.

Even when your child has seemingly minor illnesses, your pediatrician should be the first call to help. They may help you with resources to treat at home, thus saving a trip to the ER or office, or they can help navigate the next treatment steps while also keeping your child’s chart updated. Even multiple minor illnesses can be a red flag to your pediatrician that something might be amiss, but we rely on you to keep us informed.

Studies have even shown that working directly with your pediatrician for any illnesses, major or minor, and continuing with regularly scheduled check-ups decrease the number of ER visits and hospitalizations, decrease the number of missed days from school or daycare, and decrease money spent on copays and deductibles.

Remember, you are your child’s main caregiver, and your pediatrician is here to help you with all the tools needed to help with your child’s well-being. Your pediatrician’s main goal is to work with you so that your child grows up to be a healthy and happy adult.

Dr. Savannah Browning grew up in Fayette, AL. She moved to Mobile to attend Medical School at the University of South Alabama in 2009, and has been a proud Mobilian ever since. She joined Children’s Medical Group in 2016, and her office is at the Airport Boulevard location. She lives in Mobile with her husband, Andrew, and their three children: Jude, Luke, and Annie.

Some activities we offer: archery, robotics, flag football, scholars bowl, National Junior Honor Society, football, basketball, volleyball, band, student council, chess club, crochet club, and E-sports.

What is CTE and why is it important?

Career and technical education (CTE) is a school program that prepares students for college and careers by teaching them the knowledge and skills needed for specific jobs and fields. Our 6th-8th graders are introduced to pathways while our 9th graders take CTE courses in their chosen pathway.

“There are so many teaching moments I love, but one of my favorites was when a student who had struggled with reading all year finally read an entire book aloud to the class,” shared Krystal Ladnier, our Teacher of the Month from Breitling Elementary. “The look of pride on their face was unforgettable, and it reminded me why I do what I do. It’s moments like those that make the hard days worth it.”

Mrs. Ladnier has been teaching for 13 years and is currently teaching first graders who reside in Grand Bay, AL. She has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Education from the University of South Alabama and is graduating this month from the University of West Alabama with her Educational Specialist degree in Teacher Leader.

“I currently teach first grade, and I absolutely love it! I find this age group to be incredibly special because they’re just beginning to develop a love for learning,” Mrs. Ladnier shared. “The growth I get to witness over the course of the year is so rewarding. First grade is foundational—watching students go from barely knowing how to read to becoming independent learners is magical.”

Laid back and student-centered is how Mrs. Ladnier describes her teaching style. She works every

Krystal Ladnier

Breitling Elementary School

day to create a fun atmosphere that encourages her students to take risks and make mistakes. Interactive games, hands-on activities, and incorporating projects into her lessons, allow her to keep students engaged in their lessons.

“I’ve always known that teaching was what I wanted to do,” said Mrs. Ladnier. “From a young age, I enjoyed helping others understand things. It feels natural for me to explain ideas and be a part of that “aha” moment when something clicks for someone else.”

The impact a teacher can have on a child’s life is something that drives Mrs. Ladnier every day. Being nominated for the Mobile Bay Parents Teacher of the Month Award leaves her feeling humbled.

“To know that others appreciate the work I do with my students is such an honor,” she said. “I also feel like this recognition is a reflection of the amazing team I work with—teaching is truly a community effort, and I’m just one piece of the puzzle.”

Krystal Ladnier has been married to her husband, Brian, for 19 years. He is an agricultural science teacher at Bryant High School. Together, they have two children - Phillip (14) and Peyton (10). The family enjoys boating together and spending time with friends and family.

Phillips Preparatory 2024-25 Student Council

Phillips Preparatory School announces their 2024-2025 Phillips Preparatory Student Council. President: Rileigh Bonham, Vice President: Hannah Bailey, Secretary: Caroline Welton and Treasurer: Ben Stringfellow. Also pictured are the 6th , 7th, and 8th Grade Representatives.

Saint Dominic 7th Graders Build Edible Cell Models

7th grade students at St. Dominic put their creativity to the test by creating edible cell models using various food items, bringing science to life in a sweet and colorful way!

Corpus Christi Catholic All Saints Day

In celebration of All Saints Day, Corpus Christi Catholic School 4th graders came to school dressed as their favorite saints and participated in the processional at Mass on November 1st. Afterwards, they followed behind the Eucharist Procession led by Fr. Pat. The students then gave a short presentation about their saints.

Congratulations Mobile Christian Volleyball!

Mobile Christian Volleyball won the 3A State Championship on in Birmingham. They finished the season with a record of 40-9 beating many top ranked 6A and 7A schools throughout the season and ranked as high as 4th in the power rankings for Alabama regardless of class. Way to go Lady Leopards!

Satsuma Schools Receive Donations

SSAB recently donated $10,000 to Satsuma High School for its Forensic Science Program and $10,000 to Lee Elementary School to fund Kagan Coaching for all classrooms.

Ums-Wright Students Visit Camp Grace

Each year, UMS-Wright’s 8th graders spend a week at Camp Grace to take part in bonding activities as a class and to complete a service project. Throughout the week, they participated in a high ropes course that tested their team-building skills. The students also constructed and sold benches, Adirondack chairs, cornhole boards, and more! Based on the presales of these items, $3,500 will be donated to Camp Rap-a-Hope as well as $3,500 to Camp Smile.

A special thank you to all of the speakers who addressed the students, and also to Ward International Trucks for moving the furniture!

Congratulations McGill-Toolen Dirty Dozen!

The McGill-Toolen Dirty Dozen varsity volleyball team clinch the 7A State Championship for the third consecutive year! Congratulations to the players, coaches, and supporters who made this victory possible!

Little Flower Catholic School Welcomes First Responders

To celebrate National First Responders Day, Little Flower Catholic School had the privilege of hosting members of the Mobile Police Department and the Spanish Fort Fire Department. Little Flower Student Government president, Ethan Escalante, welcomed the visitors for doughnuts and coffee. Little Flower is grateful for the opportunity to express our gratitude for their service and dedication to our community. The morning was

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Promotes Childhood Literacy with Mobile City Leaders

The purpose of Super Reader Week is to highlight the importance of early childhood literacy and to create excitement about reading. From parents, to college athletes, to alumni, to community leaders, we have loved having guest readers in our classrooms throughout the day! This year, we hosted special guests of honor that included Sherif Paul Burch, DA Keith Blackwood, Fox 10 Lenise Ligon, Mobile’s Director of Community Affairs, Keysha Brown, and Desmond Trotter and South Alabama Football.

Old Shell Magnet School Choir Students Attend

Music Festival

Seven Old Shell Road Magnet School choir students attended the Alabama Music Educators Elementary Music Festival in Birmingham on Friday, October 25. They rehearsed with choir students from across the state of Alabama and performed a concert. Mason Barnes, Gabel Conner, Gia Singleton, Kyndall Randall, Brady Pelfrey, Hannah King, and Caroline Williams

Max3 Martial Arts Training at Saint Dominic

As a part of the Saint Dominic AntiBullying Week Campaign, MAX3 Martial Arts instructors visited PE classes to teach self-defense and lessons on kindness and support.

St. Luke’s Center Stage Success at District Trumbauer Festival

St. Luke’s Center Stage Department competed at the District Trumbauer High School Theatre Festival and did a fantastic job representing St. Luke’s! They received 11 Superiors and 7 Excellents. The studio piece is also advancing to state and won many awards: All-Star Cast (Jay Mansfield, Evelyn Cummings, Sophie Bitzer), Best Lead Actress in a Studio Piece (Chloe Lambert, Lilly Liller), Best Ensemble and Best in Show. The State competition is in Florence December 5-8th.

Pirates Day Fun at Little Flower Catholic School

Pirate’s Day at Little Flower was fun for the whole campus. Even the staff got into the action. Calling out “Ahoy, Matey” brought out the best in everyone, even without sailing the high seas. No one had to walk the plank, and the only treasure found was the friendship and kindness shared amongst classmates and friends.

Clark-Shaw Basketball Team

Dyslexia Awareness Month at Read Write Academy

October was Dyslexia Awareness Month. Read Write Academy learned the truths, myths and facts about dyslexia and everything they overcome as a dyslexic learner.

The students dressed up for Monday: Fall Out of Bed, Tuesday: Bright Idea Day, Wednesday: Wacky Wednesday, and Thursday: Don’t Get Spooked. Everyone enjoyed dressing up, learning more about dyslexia and spreading awareness of what makes them unique.

The Clark-Shaw Basketball Team is currently off to a hot start this season. They opened the season on the road on October 24th in a long-standing rivalry against the Phillips Pirates. The Eagles came out with a 46 – 28 victory in a standing room only environment.

The following Monday, the Explorers from Barton Academy paid a visit. The young basketball program at Barton was overwhelmed and left defeated by a score of 48-3. Later that week, the Causey Tigers came in and gave ClarkShaw all they could handle. The game went down to the wire and the Eagles defeated the Tigers 37-33.

The goal at the end of the regular season is to be in the playoffs in hopes of winning the MCPSS Large Division Middle School Championship. The Large Division (enrollment based) is broken up into two groups. ClarkShaw Eagles are in the same group with Alba Sharks, Chastang-Fournier Falcons, Pillans Eagles, and the Scarborough Knights. The other group consists of Burns Blazers, Causey Tigers, Grand Bay Tigers, Hankins Cougars, Semmes Bulldogs. The top 2 teams from each group make the playoffs. The Eagles began group play at Chastang-Fournier on Monday, November 4th and came out victorious with a final score of 56-42. Douglas July, Jr. coaches the basketball team and stated the following “Although we have no losses on our record, we have a lot of things to correct and adjust. It is still early in the season and there are a couple good teams that could catch us on a bad day.” They will be in action for the following dates this month: November 7th vs Alba, November 11th @ Causey Veterans Day Classic, November 14th @ Scarborough, November 18th vs Pillans, November 21st vs Grand Bay and November 26th in the Bishop State Classic.

E.R. Dickson

‘Shows Some Love’

Parker Davis, a 4th grade student at E.R. Dickson Elementary School, raised and donated a total of $1,918.27 to The Cleft Center at The Children’s Hospital of Alabama! He led a school-wide fundraiser in which students and staff were invited to donate $2 in order to wear jeans to school. He collected $1,034.77 over two days! He then challenged nearby Dodge Elementary to a friendly competition and they raised $883.50! This money will be used to help fund surgeries for children with cleft lip and cleft palate. This is the fourth time that Parker has led this fundraiser which has raised a grand total of $3,567.79.

Mobile Botanical Gardens Greets Heartwood Christian Academy’s Students

The students of Heartwood Christian Academy were divided into lower and upper schools. HCA’s lower school enjoyed a lovely nature walk through the gardens, gaining an overview of plant life. They completed their field trip with an impressive nature craft. Only Mobile Botanical Gardens could create such an inviting activity for the youth. HCA’s high school students enjoyed the morning with Mobile Botanical Garden’s field trip docent, Dr. Judy Stout, learning about plants and their interaction with our environment. We held class in the herb garden and toured the surrounding area. The students were able to gain an understanding from an expert botanist. Dr. Stout is fluent in her knowledge of plants and their inner workings. We learned about certain leaves, stems, and flowers, as well as how to identify the parts of flowers. More specifically, we learned how to identify plants by their leaves. Thank you, Mobile Botanical Gardens, for a fantastic field trip.

St. Ignatius 3rd Grade Students Send Christmas Gifts Across the World

Service is a pillar of the Catholic faith and a priority at St. Ignatius. Each grade level has a specific, annual service project. Third grade Impalas chose the Box of Joy program through Cross Catholic Outreach. Students promoted, collected, packed and shipped over 300 “Boxes of Joy” to children in developing countries. Way to go, Impalas! St. Ignatius forms leaders in mind, body & spirit.

Allentown Elementary’s October 2024 GATOR KIDS

Pre-K: Moses McCrary

Kindergarten: Aryiah Blackmon, Lyla Byerley, Cooper Dykes, Preston Fisher Kace, Scott-Clark , and Charleigh Tolbert

1st Grade: Bai’Leigh Gullette, Benjamin Jines, Maddox Moore, Evelyn Strachan, Ansley Swain, and Naomi Wright

2nd Grade: Micah Day, Camryn Emrich, Antonella Figueroa, Nathan NG, Zara Robinson, and Norah Summerville

3rd Grade: Holden Cannon, Hayden Culbreth, Kate Joerger, Natalie Longstreet, A’riyah McQueen, Alexis Phillips

4th Grade: Karson Burke, Londyn Dansby, Sadie James, Bryce Matthews, Aubri Tolbert, Jojo Zheng

5th Grade: De’Shanti Doss, Makenly Frost, Devin Howell, Skylar Knighten, Raven Moton, Isaiah Reed, Dalton Swain

University of South Alabama’s Covey College of Allied Health Professions. From Radiologic Sciences to Emergency Medical Services, our students explored a diverse array of fields and gained invaluable insights into the world of healthcare. A big thank you to USA for opening their doors and minds to our future innovators!

Satsuma Schools Awarded Grants

Friends For Satsuma Schools recently awarded $24,000 in grants to Satsuma City Schools. These funds were raised during this year’s Swamp Fest and will support various classroom projects for K-12 students throughout the district.

St. Ignatius Division 4 Tackle Football- Toy Bowl Champions!

Congratulations to the D4 Impala football team for an undefeated season and the title of Toy Bowl Champions. Coached by Justin McDonald, Matt House, Matt Quinn, Gaillard Teague, Larry Picard, John King, Brandon Barnhill & Robert Brenizer. St. Ignatius has the best parents! Special thanks to these amazing dads who truly embody what it means to be a strong Catholic leader.

Satsuma High School Band Earns Best in Class

The Spirit of Satsuma earned Best in Class AAA Band, Best in Class AAA Drum Major and Best in Class AAA Color Guard at the Dixieland Marching Band Competition held in Brewton, AL. They also received all 1’s in the area of Drum Major, Percussion, ColorGuard, and Band at a marching band competition hosted at Troy University.

St. Mary’s Kindergarten Experience Election Day

St. Mary’s Kindergarten Class took the opportunity on our National Election Day to vote on their favorite Oreo! Each received a ballot, voted, placed their vote in the ballot box, and received an “I Voted” sticker! Double Stuff Oreos won the popular vote! Photo by Marian Warner.

St. Luke’s Annual Blessing of the Animals

St. Luke’s celebrated their annual Blessing of the Animals on the lower campus with joy and gratitude!

Rev. Mary Alice Mathison lovingly blessed many animals (and some more than once!) The blessing was a way to express gratitude for animals’ important role in our lives and ask for their protection and well-being.

Cottage Hill Christian 4th Graders Read Essay for Veterans Day

Cottage Hill Christian Academy’s fourth graders, Ben Catchpole, Nitsua Montanez, Kinsley Moralis, and Maggie Seay, had the honor of reading their heartfelt essays on the meaning of Veterans Day at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park’s Veterans Day Celebration and Parade of Flags. We are incredibly proud of these young students for representing CHCA with pride and gratitude, and we extend our deepest thanks to all our veterans for their service and sacrifice!

Council Student Takes Action

Patricia Cushman, a CTS third grade student, saw a need and took action. Patricia organized a drive to support the PURRfect Partners of Mobile. Patricia thanks all of the Council community for supporting this event. We are certain there are some happier and more comfortable cats in our community.

Clark-Shaw’s 9th Grade Honors Biology is Hands On

Ninth Grade honors biology students were learning about osmosis by placing a dialysis bag of 10% sucrose solution in cups of differing sucrose solutions. Then, they measured the change in mass of the dialysis bag. These freshmen really enjoyed the hands-on learning.

Barton Academy Receives Highest National Award for Preservation Project

Barton Academy for Advanced World Studies has just received the highest national recognition bestowed upon a preservation project by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Representatives of the Barton Academy Foundation accepted the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation National Preservation Award at the PastForward Conference in New Orleans on behalf of the foundation, Mobile County Public Schools, and the Downtown Mobile Alliance.

Built in 1836, Barton Academy served as Alabama’s first public school. Barton Academy served as the MCPSS central office for several decades before being vacated in 2007 with plans to re-establish a school. The Mobile County Board of School Commissioners initiated the project by investing $4 million in exterior renovations to the building. The Barton Academy Foundation formed and raised another $14 million to renovate the interior.

With its Greek Revival Architecture, dome and ornate columns, Barton is a landmark of downtown Mobile. While the building retains its historic integrity on the exterior, the interior features modern classrooms, collaboration labs and spaces, and innovative technology. Its location in downtown Mobile allows students to participate in unique educational opportunities and partnerships, including walking field trips and history and art projects. The Driehaus award recognizes success in the preservation, rehabilitation, restoration and interpretation of America’s architectural and cultural heritage. These coveted awards represent the “best of the best” in preservation and are evaluated based on the impact of a project on the community, the quality of the project, and how it may serve as an example for other projects. The National Trust for Historic Preservation, a privately funded nonprofit organization, works to save America’s historic places to enrich our future. https://savingplaces.org/

St. Ignatius D4 & D6 Volleyball Champions!

St. Ignatius students work hard on the court, on the field, in the classroom and while developing their faith. Forming students is not just

about the mind and spirit, but also the body. We are so proud of our D4 & D6 Impalas for working hard and clinching the title of volleyball champions this season. Special thanks to the coaches who truly give their hearts and souls to this wonderful school community. D4 coached by Libby LaCour and Katherine Thomas. D6 coached by Libby LaCour, Laurel Steiner and Jesi Wilcox. St. Ignatius forms leaders in mind, body & spirit.

Eichold-Mertz Magnet School Honors Veterans

Third grade students at Eichold-Mertz Magnet School hosted their annual Veterans Day Program. We were honored to welcome Lieutenant Colonel Robert Barrow as our guest speaker in recognition of all veterans. Lieutenant Colonel Barrow retired from both the military and the Mobile County Public School System. He previously served as a JROTC instructor and later as the Director of JROTC for MCPSS. Our third-grade students celebrated by parading around the Always Veterans and presenting each with personalized cards filled with gratitude. We are forever grateful and will always honor the men and women who served in our arm forces.

Little Flower Catholic Salutes Top Readers

A BIG shout out to the first quarter Top A.R. Readers at Little Flower Catholic School. These three readers were all in for reading page after page of the next good book. Their thirst for reading earned them McDonald’s gift cards and other treats at the A.R. party. To Ethan Blackburn, Ava Milton, and Adysin James: We are so proud of you. Keep reading!!

Bright Academy is Creating Future Scientists

Bright Academy’s students are busy learning all about science with some very cool experiments. This year, some of the topics students have learned about include lab safety, scientific method, series and parallel circuits, pollinators and pollination, wave models, states of matter, energy transformation, and electromagnetism. Bright Academy’s science program is led by Mrs. Selina Goss who makes learning fun each and every day!

Saint Dominic 3rd Grade Meets the Mayor

St. Dominic 3rd graders had an inspiring day meeting Mayor Sandy Stimpson, learning firsthand about leadership and community.

Ums-Wright

Theater Guild Receives Best in Show!

Congratulations to the Wright Players for their stellar showing at the District Competition on November 2nd at Murphy High School! They earned a Best in Show in the Studio Theatre category with A Human Write by Amelia Armande. Elizabeth Denson, Marina Hess, Joseph Taylor, and Harper Williams earned All-Star Cast awards highlighting their performances in the Studio Theatre show.

Cast: Killian Delaney, Elizabeth Denson, Addison England, Finley Gartman, Marina Hess, Hannah Martin, Ella McGill, Mohammad Qasim, Joseph Taylor, Sarah Frances Warren, Emily Waters, Harper Williams Crew:, Blake Elmore, Liam Smith

Eight Individual Events earned Superior Ratings and will advance to State:

Killian Delaney and Hannah Martin - Varsity Duet Readers Theatre

Finley Gartman and Addison England - Intermediate Duet Readers Theatre

Harper Williams - Novice Classical Monologue

Joseph Taylor - Varsity Contemporary Comedic Monologue

Ella McGill - Novice Contemporary Comedic Monologue

Mohammad Qasim - Intermediate Original Comedic Monologue

Marina Hess - Novice Puppet Design

Sarah Frances Warren - Varsity Makeup Design

Two individual Events earned Superior with a cap in their category:

Joseph Taylor - Varsity Dramatic Musical Solo

Elizabeth Denson - Varsity Comedic Musical Solo One earned an Excellent rating:

Emily Waters - Intermediate Contemporary Comedic Monologue

Red Ribbon Student Representative for E.R. Dickson Elementary

Congratulations to Sammekai Cason, our 2024-2025 Red Ribbon Leader!

Sammekai is a 5th grade student at E.R. Dickson Elementary School. We are excited to have her lead our school in activities to bring awareness to drug and alcohol education and prevention.

50th Day of School at Saint Dominic

St. Dominic kindergarteners dressed up in their best 50’s attire in celebration of the 50th day of school.

Council’s Red Ribbon Recipient

Congratulations to Ethan King, recipient of Council Traditional School’s Red Ribbon Community Service and Leadership Award. Ethan’s outstanding academic excellence and leadership at Council have earned him this well-deserved recognition. We’re excited to join Ethan in upcoming activities and community service projects.

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Spellers Shine

Four Cottage Hill Christian Academy students competed in the AISA District spelling bee. Kensley Moralis and Madisyn Little placed runner-up, while Makennon Graham and Anavin Tongkul claimed first place in their grade-level spelling bees. Makennon and Anavin will proudly represent CHCA at the state competition! We couldn’t be prouder of their hard work and dedication.

McGillToolen Azalea Trail Maids

Congratulations to our 2025-26

McGill-Toolen

Azalea Trail

Maids! Lorelai Fancher, DeeDee Scott and Lydia Stokes received their colors during the Queen’s Coronation and have selected the fabric for their dresses. Also pictured are last year’s Trail Maids: Clair Watson, Ava Purvis, Grace Salmon, Caroline Seese.

Heartwood Christian Academy’s Archery Team Wins

Heartwood Christian Academy’s Archery Team rocked the Grand Bay Middle School Tournaments archery competition, bringing home 1st place for the High School team in 3D and 2nd place in Bullseye. Congratulations to the three archers who brought home three individual medals and the archers who achieved their personal best. We welcome our new archers.

Signing Spartans Perform with USA Marching Band

Saraland Elementary School’s Signing Spartans accompanied by the South Alabama Jaguar Marching Band presented the National Anthem in American Sign Language before a University of South Alabama football game. The American Sign Language Club at Saraland Elementary School meets after school and is comprised of 100 fourth and fifth grade students eager to learn the basics and beauty of this visual language.

Corpus Christi Catholic Toy Bowl Champions

Congratulations to Corpus Christi Catholic School D3 Flag Football team on winning the Toy Bowl Championship!! Go Cougars!!!

St. Luke’s 8th Grade “Bigs” and K5 “Littles”

Meet for the First Time

St. Luke’s 8th grade “Bigs” met their K5 “Littles.” This cherished tradition at St. Luke’s fosters a sense of community and mentorship and creates lasting memories. The meeting day was filled with fun as they read books together and played on the playground. We look forward to these bonds growing stronger as the school year progresses.

Council Has a Heart of Gold

We are proud to announce that Council Traditional School is one of twelve schools honored with the Heart of Gold Award for setting new records in the Kids Heart Challenge and the American Heart Challenge. Our students not only contributed to lifesaving research but also learned essential heart-healthy habits. Together with Mobile County Public Schools, we’re leading the way in supporting the American Heart Association.

St. Mary’s Kindergarten at The Dauphin Island Sea Lab

St. Mary’s Kindergarten students visited the Dauphin Island Sea Lab this October and learned about their ocean friends in an interactive way. Always a fun Field Trip for St. Mary’s Mustangs of all ages! Photo by Marian Warner.

Alabama School of Math and Science Partners with WindBorne

The Alabama School of Math and Science (ASMS) partnered with WindBorne Systems to launch weather balloons from its Midtown Mobile campus into Hurricane Milton. ASMS students joined alum Gene Bradley (Class of 2007) to release the sophisticated, autonomously navigating balloons from the school’s West Campus into Hurricane Milton.

Bradleyis head of global

operations at WindBorne, a Khosla Ventures-backed planetary intelligence company based in Palo Alto, California. WindBorne’s mission is to understand the planet and better predict and manage extreme weather and climate change. The company uses balloons and artificial intelligence modeling to create moreaccurate AI-based forecasts. WindBorne designs, builds, and operates the only technology to capture in-situ atmospheric profiles everywhere, including over oceans and the Earth’s most remote places. ASMS was not just a launch site for the balloons but a partner in this significant event. This unique collaboration will not only provide our students with an unparalleled opportunity to gain practical experience in meteorological science but also inspire the next generation of weather experts, fostering a brighter future for meteorological science.

Covenant Christian’s Message of Gratitude and Joy

As we approach the close of our fall semester, we are filled with gratitude for the many blessings in our school community. We are thankful for the dedication and hard work of our faculty and staff, the support of our parents, and the enthusiasm and bright spirits of our students. Each contributes to making our school a special place where learning, growth, and faith flourish. The holiday season offers us an opportunity to reflect on the gifts of love, peace, and joy that surround us. As we celebrate the upcoming birth of Jesus, we are reminded of the profound meaning of Christmas—an occasion to embrace the themes of hope, compassion, and goodwill toward all.

The Christmas story calls us to love one another, to seek peace, and to share in the joy of Christ’s presence in our lives. As we gather for Christmas programs, family chapel services, and holiday festivities, let us remember to celebrate not only with joy but also with a heart open to the true spirit of Christmas.

We encourage our families to embrace this season with gratitude, generosity, and a renewed commitment to sharing the love of Christ with others. Whether through acts of kindness, moments of reflection, or time spent with loved ones, may this Christmas bring peace and blessings to all. Wishing you and your family a joyous Christmas and a blessed New Year!

Eichold Mertz Magnet Annual Doughnuts with Dads

Eichold Mertz Magnet hosted their Annual Doughnuts with Dads event!

Students from grades 1-5 enjoyed sweet moments with their dads, grandfathers, uncles, coaches, and father figures over delicious doughnuts.

Before the fun began, we had the honor of hearing from Kerry Stevenson, former head football coach at Vigor High School and assistant coach at the University of Alabama. He shared words of inspiration and encouragement with all the father figures in the room. Thank you to everyone who came out and made this event so special!

St. Mary’s Third Grade Saints

St. Mary’s third graders processed into St. Mary’s All Saints Day Mass on November 1 as their favorite Saint. From St. Michael to St. Catherine, all students represented their Saints well at this all student Mass in St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

Elizabeth Kalifeh and her husband PJ recently married in October 2023. They have a blended family comprising the two of them and their children, Emily (16) and Joseph (4).

Both of the Kalifehs are working fulltime. PJ is an Associate Extension Professor at Auburn School of Fisheries, and Elizabeth is an aesthetic injectable sales rep for Galderma. When they have downtime the family loves to travel together. PJ enjoys hunting and fishing outdoors, and Elizabeth can be found running and exercising.

The kids are also very involved in afterschool activities. Emily is part of the theatre program at UMS Preparatory School, and she also plays softball. Joseph just started his first year of playing sports, really enjoying both T-ball and soccer.

“Weeknights often feel hectic, and we try to make quick, simple, and healthy choices,” said Elizabeth. “Our Simple Chicken Enchilada recipe is in our regular meal rotation, so it seemed appropriate to share it with everyone.”

A friend shared this recipe with Elizabeth because Joseph is a picky eater. These enchiladas were one meal he would eat - sans the beans.

“We love these because they’re easy to make, and we always have leftovers. It’s also a dish I like to take to someone who has had a baby because it’s easy to throw in the oven once prepped,” said Elizabeth.

This new family is excited for their second Christmas together.

“We are still building our own special traditions for the holiday season. Emily has made a homemade gingerbread house every year since she was a year old and

Joseph has now joined in on the tradition,” said Elizabeth. “I tend to do a lot of baking this time of year and have requests for my gingersnap, mint chocolate, and saltysweet cookies.”

When she isn’t in the kitchen baking, Elizabeth can be found cozied up on the couch watching Hallmark Christmas movies. This means PJ is often out hunting.

“Truly, I love celebrating all holidays, and anyone who knows me would tell you I’m extra and over the top when it comes to celebrating,” Elizabeth said. “I love doing all the Christmas activities with the kids and spending time with family.”

Simple Chicken Enchiladas

Ingredients:

• 4 cups coarsely shredded rotisserie chicken

• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided

• 8 8-inch flour tortillas, warmed

For the enchilada sauce:

• 1 tablespoon canola oil

Instructions:

Enchilada Sauce Instructions (prep first):

1. Heat canola oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat.

2. Add onion and poblano, and cook, stirring frequently, until tender, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. Gradually whisk in chicken stock and tomato sauce. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.

Instructions for Assembling and Baking:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly oil a 9 x 13 baking dish or coat it with nonstick spray.

2. Spoon some of the enchilada sauce into the bottom of the baking dish.

3. In a large bowl, combine chicken, black beans, cilantro, and 1/2 cup enchilada sauce. Stir in 3/4 cup cheese.

4. To assemble the enchiladas, lay the tortilla on a flat surface and spoon 1/2-3/4 cups of the chicken mixture in the center. Roll the tortilla and place the seam side down onto the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.

• 1 medium sweet onion, diced

• 1 small poblano pepper, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon each ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano

• 1 cup chicken stock

• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

5. Top with remaining enchilada sauce and remaining cheese.

6. Place into the oven and bake until bubbly, about 25-30 minutes.

Gabriele has been married to her husband Daniel for 17 years. Together they have three incredible children – two boys, ages 16 and nine, and a sweet girl who will be two in August.

Gabriele is a full-time Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When she isn’t spending time with family or building her business, she supports her husband who is the Lead Pastor and Planter of Forward Church in Gulf Shores.

Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Online Rentals, and Theatrical Releases

Red One

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Lost on a Mountain in Maine

Santa’s been kidnapped! But fear not, the North Pole’s head of security is on the job. Teaming up with a bounty hunter, he launches a high octane, action-packed hunt to secure Santa Claus in time for Christmas. Overlong, stuffed with loose plot threads and lazy CGI, and lacking in charm, kids will nonetheless enjoy the frenetic action sequences. Adults will probably find the film hollow: like the toy that comes with a fast food meal, there’s no satisfaction and little long term entertainment

Hitpig is an animal bounty hunter and the Leapin’ Lord of the Leotard has hired him to catch and return Pickles, the elephant co-star of his upcoming Las Vegas show. When Hitpig finds Pickles, he has a change of heart and the two become friends –but the Leapin’ Lord is still obsessed with regaining his elephant. The movie features madcap adventure and non-stop action, combined with highly creative fart jokes. The level of violence is higher than the norm and the movie is a bit low on charm but kids will enjoy it.

When Grace volunteers to take over the Christmas pageant, she has no idea that the six Herdman siblings are going to insist on taking part. They are practiced bullies, and when oldest sister Imogene decides they are going to star in the pageant, no other child is willing to audition. Will the pageant survive the Herdmans’ curiosity and unique perspectives? Is it possible that pageant-goers might even learn more about the reason for the season? Sweet, kind-hearted, and hopeful, this is a great choice for family viewing. Kids will enjoy the chaos and adults might appreciate the nudges towards self-assessment.

Photo ©Lionsgate Films

In a fit of temper, Donn Fendler storms away from his group while hiking Mount Katahdin in Maine and gets lost, prompting a massive search and rescue operation. Based on a true story from 1939, this absorbing, family-friendly survival film switches back and forth between the rescuers and Donn’s attempts to survive and find his way to safety. Clean and filled with messages about love, courage, grit, and ingenuity, it’s a great choice for teens and older kids

As German bombs rain down on London, Rita makes the painful decision to evacuate her son to the countryside for safety. Angry and defiant, George jumps off the train and makes his way home, encountering the best and worst of his fellow Londoners. Along the way, he comes to terms with his mixed-race identity, experiences peril and loss, and becomes a local hero. Low on gore and high on drama, this film offers teens and adults a granular, on-the-ground view of the Blitz and an illustration of the power of family ties. Photo ©Apple TV+

Hitpig!

The first time I attended the wedding of a friend, I knew exactly what to do. I brought a gift, set it on the gift table, and sat on the bride’s side of the aisle. I took advantage of the open bar, and joined the other guests in celebrating the couple. Later, I’d learn you have a year to give a gift, and never to expect the cake to be moist. By the time I got married, I’d been in so many weddings I could have filled the role of bridesmaid blindfolded with my hands bound behind my back. I was a pro when it came to helping friends tie the knot.

But when it came to helping friends through divorce, I was as comfortable as a seventh-grader at a school dance.

For years, I’d known how to help my bestie through any crisis. I’d functioned as wingman, fashion advisor, therapist, career counselor, and dog sitter. I was there when she met her now ex-husband, and I was there to soothe her nerves the first time she met his parents. I knew not to bother talking her out of chocolate pudding for breakfast or running alone at night. Yet, I didn’t know exactly how to help when she got divorced.

If, like me, for most of your adult life, the full extent of your knowledge of how to help a friend navigate a divorce consists of snippets from a grown-up conversation you overheard in the 80’s, read on.

The following tips are based on the experiences of friends of have been through divorce and were kind enough to share their stories with me.

Don’t Interrogate

When you ask questions about how the split happened, you might think you’re expressing interest or concern, but it doesn’t necessarily come off that way. As one of my friends recalled over a decade after the fact, “Many people had a million nosy, judgy questions that just made me cry even harder. Like I was supposed to explain to them how it came about.” Remember, the vibe you’re going for is Friends, not CSI.

Don’t Judge

You might have your own ideas about why the marriage didn’t last, but that is not what your friend wants to hear right now (or maybe ever). Comments like “Of course your marriage didn’t work out because you’re too...” are helpful only if they end with “too good for him/her.” Unless your friend specifically asks you what you think went wrong, keep it to yourself. Said one friend, “The people who were just completely accepting and supportive were the best.”

Validate

Divorce has essentially flipped your friend’s whole life upside down. Regardless of the circumstances, the process can be scary, disorienting, and overwhelming, which can cause him or her to second guess the decision. One friend described, “going blank” at times, like you would during trauma. She recalled how important it was for friends to remind her of the details of why she made the choice to leave and all the actions she took to try to save the marriage.

Be a Haven

When your friend is going through a divorce, she may not know where she fits in anymore, especially if she’s separated (emotionally or geographically) from family. An invitation to dinner, especially at the holidays, goes a long way.

If dinner isn’t your jam, give your friend liquid nutrition and laughs. One friend remembered, in the tender weeks following her divorce, “the best person just made time to let me crash on her couch after her kids went to bed and we drank beer and watched the kind of trashy shows that make you feel like your life is pretty together.”

Give a Gift

It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive to show you care. One friend, recalling her long-ago divorce, mentioned a simple fridge magnet with a heart on it that a friend sent her. “Every time I opened the refrigerator I knew she was thinking of me.”

Do a Task

It’s nice to say, “Let me know if there’s anything I can do,” but what really helps is rolling up your sleeves and working. One friend recalled being grateful when someone cleaned out her fridge without being asked, when another friend helped reset all her bank passwords, and for the people who took on housework and childcare.

Show Up

who kept showing up, extending invitations to coffee, and “continuing to call, even when I was at the point where I ‘should’ be okay but I wasn’t, and asking how I was, then not flinching when I gave an honest response.”

Be a Cheerleader

Let your friend know you believe in them. One friend described the wrenching decision to leave his partner just one month prior to the wedding and how powerful it was to receive a letter from a family member. “[She wrote that] I made the most difficult decision of my life. Plenty of people would have gone through with [the wedding]. I carry that card in my bag every day. It meant the world to me when I felt like I was the worst type of human being.” Other friends recalled appreciating the advice to go out, have experiences, and figure out who you are without him, and to be selfish for a while.

It turns out, being a friend through a divorce isn’t much different than being a friend through the rest of life’s messes. As my best friend recalled, while she and her ex were splitting up, I did better than I thought I did, as a friend. “You didn’t give advice and you listened, and that’s the best you can do for someone.”

This article was originally published on Motherly.

Pam Moore is an award-winning freelance writer, intuitive eating coach, and host of the Real Fit podcast. Get her free guide to improving your body image at pam-moore.com.

MBP

Can The Kids Handle It?

Q. My husband and I began your plan a few months ago. We love the process of living on a budget, and how it has helped us gain control of our finances. Our kids are 14 and 13 now. Do you think it’s a good idea to include teenagers in budget meetings and financial discussions?

A. This is a great question! As long as you’re not in an extreme situation, like you’re looking at foreclosure or bankruptcy, or you’re on the opposite end of the spectrum sitting on a pile of wealth, I think it’s a wonderful idea. Teaching kids about money with a standard, regular, monthly budget is one thing. But as a parent, you don’t want to put your kids into situations they aren’t emotionally equipped to handle.

As long as mom and dad are having a discussion and making decisions—not fighting—it’s good for kids to hear the give and take where handling money is concerned.

Parents who never let their kids handle money, and never teach them proper money management techniques, run a high risk of turning financially irresponsible adults loose in the world. And that’s no good for anyone.

But walking through a typical, normal budget will show them how much money is coming in and how much things cost. They’ll see on paper exactly how much groceries or the electric bill costs. Then, when it’s right there in front of their eyes, they’ll begin to realize why mom and dad always tell them not to waste food, and to turn off the lights when they leave a room!

A. As long as you’re debt-free and buying with cash, I’m cool with it. A vacation home is a really nice “extra” as you start building wealth. It’s still basically a very large, very expensive toy. Still, it could become something of a money maker for you if you play your cards right.

Should I Buy a Vacation Home?

Q. How do you feel about someone buying a vacation home, then renting it out when they’re not there?

But here’s another side to vacation home rentals that most folks don’t consider. You might make some money, but there will almost always be several weeks during a year when it sits there empty. Chances are you won’t get rich renting it out, but if you’re talking about something that’s more of a plan to offset the annual costs of your toy, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. Be ready to deal with lots of spills on the carpet and damage from your guests, along with general maintenance and repairs. There’s always something that needs attention when you own a property. But if you can handle all that financially and emotionally, I think you’ll be fine.

Traditionally, Advent calendars are small gifts you open for 24 days in December. This year, plan 24 activities to enjoy with the family during the holiday season. Not sure where to start? Check out our list!

1. Make a blanket fort and read a Christmas book. Simply put a large blanket over the kitchen table, add cozy pajamas and a few pillows.

2. Try Christmas Carol Karaoke. Head over to Karafun.com where you will find instrumental versions of Christmas songs as well as lyrics.

3. Have a gingerbread house contest. Break the group into teams or work individually to complete your gingerbread house kit.

4. Purchase cheap canvas and paints from a craft store to paint winter scenes that you can continue to display in January. Holiday paint-by-number sets are fun, too.

5. Have a puzzle night. If you have a competitive family, purchase a few of the same puzzle (100-300 pieces) and see who can finish it the fastest.

6. Make a hot cocoa bar. Fill a crockpot with your favorite hot cocoa recipe and offer mix-ins like candy canes, sprinkles, whipped cream and marshmallows.

7. Make gifts for Amazon and UPS drivers. Fill a dollar store mug with a hot cocoa pack, and add a candy cane with a note that says, “Just add water.”

8. Cut out snowflakes. You can find directions to make snowflake cutouts on Instructables.com or YouTube. Hang in windows or doorways.

9. Make plantable holiday cards. Add torn paper and water to a blender to make a pulp. Add wildflower seeds. Flatten out to dry. Decorate and give to friends.

10. Sponsor a family and go shopping together. If you choose a family to sponsor for the holidays, take the kids along to pick out food, clothes or toys.

11. Get outside to play Winter Olympics games. Your games can include relay races, snowball distance throwing or freeing objects from a block of ice.

12. Visit your local fire station, hospital or police department and drop off some treats. Instead of cookies or candy, try water bottle flavors, granola bars or winter essentials like lip balm.

13. Decorate your bedroom doors. Use removable hooks and tape to hang up garland, battery-operated lights or personalized art on your kids bedroom doors.

14. Watch a local holiday play. Small community theatres and local high schools usually have a holiday play or musical that runs in December. Prices are lower and sometimes free.

15. Participate in a holiday-themed 5K. Check out FindARace. com to find December races in your area. Invite family and friends to dress up in Santa hats and run for a charity or just for fun.

16. Thrift sweaters to make your own Ugly Christmas Sweater. Decorate with garland, pom poms, buttons, felt, beads and bells.

17. Go on a Christmas decoration scavenger hunt in the neighborhood. You can find printables online or create your own. You can also do this with Bingo cards.

18. Elf your Neighbors. Create a little basket of goodies – store bought or homemade and leave it at their front door. Leave it anonymous and encourage them to pay it forward.

19. Make a Christmas tree on the wall with Christmas cards you have received. If you don’t know how to display your Christmas cards, why not put them on the wall in the shape of a tree.

20. Make food for the birds. Add two cups of birdseed to 1 cup of each of peanut butter, lard, cornmeal, flour and oats. Place in molds until dried. Hang in a nearby tree and watch them eat.

21. Make appetizers for dinner. If you want to try out new holiday appetizers or sides before preparing them for your guests, this is a fun way to do it.

22. Listen to a Christmas radio show. You can find old radio shows on Spotify or YouTube. Cozy up on the couch with your comfy blankets and warm drinks and enjoy listening.

23. Do some pre-holiday pampering. Choose a day at the spa or salon or pamper yourself at home with store bought face masks, nail polish and bubble bath.

24. Give Mrs. Claus the night off. With all the shopping and wrapping complete, take time to just admire your hard work and count your blessings. Another holiday season is in the books.

Pam Molnar is a writer and mother of three. The joy and craziness of the holiday season fuel her creativity for the rest of the year.

Now-December 15 (weekends), December 19-23, 2024

North Pole Experience @ OWA

1501 South OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535

Step into the magical North Pole, where families can capture festive photos with Santa, write letters to the big man himself, lend a hand in the Elf Workshop, and enjoy playful Reindeer Games before warming up with cozy seasonal refreshments. Get into the holiday spirit like never before with OWA’s epic Christmas Tree Shows that choreograph lights and music in an unforgettable experience. (251) 923-2111 visitowa.com/christmas-at-owa/

Now through December 24, 2024, Weekends only and special dates

Photos with Santa at The Wharf @ The Wharf

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561

Ho Ho Holiday photo time with Santa at The Wharf! ; Weekends and select event dates. Friday 3pm-6pm, Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday noon6pm. December 21-23 10am - 6pm and December 24 10am-2pm. Times subject to change. (251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Now - December 24, 2024

Santa- Shoppes at Bel Air @ Shoppes at Bel Air

3299 Joe Treadwell Dr. Mobile, AL 36608 Santa visits and pictures at the Shoppes. www.shoppesatbelair.com

Now-December 24, 2024, nightly starting December 11

Arctic Express at Wales West Light Railway

@ Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL 36576

Authentic steam train ride to the North Pole, through decorations, lights, and snow! Santa visit, Toy, Free Refreshments, Minitrain rides, Hayless Hayride, Potato Cannon, Cafe, Gift Shop, Concessions. Nov. 29-Dec. 24-Fri’s, Sat’s, Sun’s, 4pm-9pm, Nightly starting Dec. 11, 4pm 9pm. Reservations online. (251) 232-2322 www.waleswest.com

Now - January 1, 2025

Christmas Nights In Lights

@ Mobile International Speedway

7800 Park Blvd. Mobile, AL 36544

Guests will enjoy a magical and an immersive experience from the convenience of their own vehicle. This dazzling drive-through showcase is over 1.5 miles and features over one million lights fully synchronized to holiday classics right on your car radio. 5:30pm-10pm (251) 525-9915 www.nightsinlights.com

Now – January 5, 2025

Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens

and Home

ad on page 43

@ Bellingrath Gardens and Home 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, AL 36582

Explore the enchanting 29th Annual Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens & Home—a festive paradise on the Gulf Coast. Wander through a dazzling 65-acre Garden estate adorned with thousands of lights. The Bellingrath Home adds to the ambiance with holiday finery and poinsettias. (251) 973-2217 www.bellingrath.org

Now - January 20, 2025

Ice Skating Rink

@ The Wharf

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561

Let us bring winter to you! Grab a pair of skates and glide, spin or fall into the season on real ice.

NOVEMBER Schedule November 15-24: MondayFriday: 4-10 pm; Saturday: 10 am-10 pm; Sunday: Noon-8 pm. November 25-27 + 29-30 (Thanksgiving Break): 10 am – 10 pm. CLOSED Thanksgiving Day. (251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com

December 3, 2024

USA Concert Choir & University

Chorale Holiday Concert

@ Laidlaw Performing Arts Center

5751 USA Drive South Mobile, AL 36688 7:30pm. (251) 460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/music

December 5, 2024

St. Mary Lighting Up Midtown and Annual Tree lighting

@ St. Mary Campus

1453 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL 36604

This family event takes place on the St. Mary Campus with activities under our the St. Mary Ollis Pavilion. The event begins with the Christmas Tree Lighting and the arrival of Santa! Join us for great food, festivities, fun, and… SNOW! 7pm-9pm (251) 432-8678

December 5-7, 2024

Mobile County Master Gardeners Greenery Sale

@ Jon Archer Center 1070 Schillinger Rd N Mobile, AL 36608

Holiday greenery items, including table and mantle arrangements, swags, mailbox toppers and a special Cuppa Cheer, are custom-designed and made by Mobile County Master Gardeners using freshly harvested local greenery. December 5,69am-3pm, December 7-9am-noon https://www.mobilecountymastergardeners.org/

December 6, 2024

Light of the World Christmas Concert

ad on page 27

@ Christ United Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined,” John 8:12. The Worship Arts Music Ministry of Christ United and special musical guests present “Light of the World,” a Christmas concert celebrating the birth and life of Christ through word and song. 7pm (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce VIP Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa

@ SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce

5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL 36619

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce

VIP Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa -Tickets

($25) must be purchased in advance. Time 6:30pm-8:30pm. (251) 666-2488 www.swmcchamber.com

Mobile Symphony Youth Orchestra

“Holiday Concert”

@ Foley Civic Center

407 East Laurel Avenue Foley, AL 36535 Holiday concert at 7:00pm. (251) 943-1545 www.mobilesymphony.org

Semmes Old Fashioned Christmas

@ Semmes Heritage Park

3871 Wulff Road Semmes, AL 36575

Old Fashioned Christmas will take place at Semmes Heritage Park69 from 5:00-8:00 p.m.

The community will enjoy this small more personal look at what Christmas was like years ago. There will be music, story time, and refreshments. This is a free family event. www.cityofsemmesal.gov

December 6-7, 2024

A Holiday Market in the Gardens

@ Mobile Botanical Gardens

5151 Museum Drive Mobile, AL 36608

Holiday Market-Enjoy cookies and cocoa as you shop. Choose handmade gifts from local and regional artists and artisans and specially curated fair-trade wonders you won’t find anywhere else, and shop holiday greenery, poinsettias, blooming camellia plants, and more! December 6-9am-3pm, December 7-9am - 1pm. (251) 342-0555 www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org/ event/a-holiday-market-in-the-gardens/

December 6,7, 2024

A White Tie Christmas-OWA Theater

@ OWA Theater

205 N OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535

Swing into the spirit of the holidays with A White Tie Christmas at OWA Theater on December 6th and 7th at 7:30 pm. Join us as the White Tie Rock Ensemble takes center stage for a mesmerizing tribute to the iconic Trans-Siberian Orchestra. https://visitowa.com/white-tie-christmas/

December 6-8, 13-15, 2024

Playhouse in the Park presents “A Christmas Carol” @ Playhouse in the Park 4851 Museum Drive Mobile, AL 36608 Playhouse in the Park presents “A Christmas Carol”. Our public performance tickets are available on our website Playhouseinthepark.org (251) 602-0630 www.playhouseinthepark.org

December 7, 2024

Satsuma Christmas Art in the Park @ Baldwin Square Satsuma , AL 36572

Join us in Baldwin Square for Satsuma Christmas Arts & Crafts festival starting at 9am. www.cityofsatsuma.com

Satsuma Christmas Parade

Satsuma , AL 36572

Join us for our Christmas parade at 11am. (251) 675-1440 www.cityofsatsuma.com

Chickasaw Christmas Market

604 Dumont St. Chickasaw, AL 36611

.Plan to shop for your favorite gift items on Saturday, December 7th from 12-4pm. (251) 452-6450 www.cityofchickasaw.org

Gingerbread Bash

@ Luke 4:18 Fellowship

2664 Sollie Rd Mobile, AL 36695

Bring your family and build gingerbread nativities, hear the Christmas story, and discover that Jesus is the sweetest gift ever! No cost to attend but preregister to let us know you’ll be joining us on December 7 at 9:00 AM. (251) 281-1418 www.luke418fellowship.com/

Joy to the World Christmas Concert

@ Cathedral of Immaculate Conception

2 South Claiborne Street Mobile, AL 36602

Gloria Dei Chorale and Chamber Orchestra ?Present Joy to the World Christmas Concert. 7:30pm. All donations at the door will benefit women and children experiencing homelessness residing at the Baldwin Family Village. gloriadeichoralemobile.org/concert-information.html

Central Midtown Holiday Art Market

1260 Dauphin St Mobile, AL 36604

Holiday art market from 10am-3pm. Featuring three floors of in-house artists and 20 additional vendors, this show offers a wide variety of fine arts and crafts.

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce Santa Breakfast

@ SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce

5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL 36619 Kids 10 and under FREE/parents $5 for pancake breakfast and photos with Santa. 8am-10am (251) 666-2488 www.swmcchamber.com

Bells in the Bayou Half Marathon & 4-Miler

@ Bayou la Batre – near the intersection of Shell Belt Road and Alabama’s Coastal Connection Bayou la Batre , AL 36509

Bells in the Bayou Half Marathon & 4-Miler will start at 8:00am. We are collecting toys for the children at USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital and the children in the care of the Child Advocacy Center. portcitypacers.com/bells-in-the-bayou-half-marathon/

Dauphin Island Christmas Parade

Dauphin Island, AL 36528

Dauphin Island Christmas Parade at 11:00am. www.townofdauphinisland.org/calendar-of-events

Kids Day - Cookies & Canvas:

Holiday Paint Party

@ Mardi Gras Park

109 Government Street Mobile, AL 36602

Join us for a FREE, fun-filled event where kids can unleash their inner artists while decorating cookies and painting. Santa Claus will be making a special appearance. Enjoy festive treats, creativity, and a visit from Santa. 3-6pm.

(251) 208-1551 www.cityofmobileevents.org

Robert Earl Keen’s Lights Camera

Christmas

@ Saenger Theatre

6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 7:30pm. (251) 208-5600 www.mobilecivicctr.com/events

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade

@ W.C. Griggs Elementary School

6001 Three Notch Road Mobile, AL 36619

Join us for our Annual Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 7th at 10:30am. This year’s theme is “Let It Snow,” parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. (251) 666-2488 www.swmcchamber.com

December 7-8, 2024

St. Lawrence Christmas Bazaar

@ St. Lawrence Church

370 South Section Street Fairhope, AL 36532

Silent auction with virtual bidding option, vendor booths, bake sale, handcrafted gift baskets, and Christmas Cafe. Unique art and antiques for purchase. Live Bluegrass Christmas music Saturday and pictures with Santa! We’ll have Gumbo, candied nuts and apples, baked goods, and homemade casseroles to go. Saturday and Sunday from 9:00am-3:00pm. Christmas bizarre and kids reindeer games-10am-2pm (Saturday and Sunday on the patio) cakewalk, ring toss, duck pond, bean bag toss, face painter, balloon artist and selfie with Santa (10am-1pm).

(251) 928-5931 stlawrencechristmasbazaar.com

This Is Christmas Concert

@ Springhill Baptist Church

2 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL 36602

Join us for an Advent worship experience featuring the Spring Hill Baptist Church Sanctuary Choir, Orchestra, Living Masterpieces, Children’s Choir and Piano Ensemble.

(251) 652-1037 www.shbc.cc

Christmas at the Richards DAR House

@ Richards DAR House

256 North Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36603

Come enjoy music, tea, cookies, and pictures with Santa. December 7-10am-4pm, December 8-1pm4pm. Tickets-https://www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/6386907 (251) 208-7320 www.richardsdarhouse.com

December 8, 2024

Holidays at USS ALABAMA Battleship

Memorial

ad on page 34

Park

@ USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL 36602

Discover what a traditional holiday was like during WW? with fun stories, crafts, music and more! Guests can enjoy the event and tour the USS ALABAMA Battleship. Guests can also purchase refreshments like hot chocolate and beignets. Free. 5pm-7:30pm (251) 433-2703 www.ussalabama.com/

Live Nativity at Christ

United ad on page

@ Christ United Church

6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609

Join us as we celebrate the Christmas season, by traveling through the story of Jesus’ birth. Enjoy the real-life scene of Bethlehem and experience what it was like the night baby Jesus was born with live character portrayals of Mary, Joseph, shepherds, wise men, angels and live animals. Go

to christunited.com/livenativity to connect your phone and car radio to our Live Nativity narration. Visit christmasinmobile.com for details. 4:00pm-6:00pm. (251) 342-0462 https://christunited.com/

Christmas on the Hill

@ The Village of Springhill Mobile, AL 36608

Join us for Photos with Santa, Children’s Activities, Shopping, Music, Food Trucks and more. 1:00pm-5:00pm www.facebook.com/springhillmerchantsassociation

Mobile’s Singing

Children Annual

Christmas Concert

@ Cathedral of Immaculate Conception

2 South Claiborne Street Mobile, AL 36602

Mobile’s Singing Children

Christmas Concert- A Ceremony of Carols at 3:00pm. Free admission - $10 suggested donation.

www.mobilesingingchildren.org

A Roman Street and Friends Christmas @ Saenger Theatre

6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602

It’s time for the annual Roman Street Christmas concert. This year, Roman Street will share the stage with surprise musical friends. Come hear Christmas Classics done in a new and exciting way at 7:30pm. www.mobilecivicctr.com/saenger-theatre

December 9, 2024

Holiday Cheer by the River

@ The National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico

155 South Water Street Mobile, AL 36602

Holiday Cheer to benefit the Child Advocacy Center will be from 6:00pm-8:00pm. The event will feature samplings of signature dishes, wines to taste, a live auction of holiday gifts and music. (251) 432-1101 www.cacmobile.org

December 12, 2024

Doug Breau - Classic Christmas

@ Joe Jefferson Playhouse

11 S Carlen St Mobile, AL 36606

Doug Breau brings Christmas Classics concert to Joe Jefferson Playhouse at 7:30pm. Christmas classics along with pop and jazz standards will surely put you in that jolly, holiday mood. All tickets $15 at the door www.dougbreau.com

December 12, 14, 2024

Country Christmas Breakfast with Santa @ Seward Farms

10836 Tanner Williams Rd Lucedale, MS 39452

Join us at Cottonwood Barn for an enchanting time of festivities at our County Christmas Breakfast with Santa! Join us for a gourmet breakfast

spread, then create your own custom holiday crafts; letters to Santa, ornament making, Christmas coloring, and mixing Santa’s reindeer their delicious food! Visit with and take a memorable photo with Santa Claus himself. Dec. 12-6pm, Dec. 14-9am. Learn more and purchase tickets online. (228) 641-3933 https://sewardfarms.com/

December 12, 15, 2024

Dauphin Island Christmas Movie Nights

@ Community Center

412 Lemoyne Dr Dauphin Island, AL 36528 Dec. 12-Polar Express Movie Night, wear your PJs, and enjoy hot chocolate & cookie decorating, Dec. 15-It’s a Wonderful Life www.townofdauphinisland.org/calendar-of-events

December 13, 2024

Supper with Santa

@ Orchard Assembly of God 10244 Howells Ferry Rd Semmes, AL 36575

A delicious supper with Santa, holiday arts and crafts, games, photos with Santa. 6pm. Registration: https://form.jotform.com/242985403435157 (251) 660-4808 https://semmeschamber.org/

A Christmas Party - Praise Family Church

@ Praise Family Church 2605 Dawes Rd Mobile, AL 36695

Join us from 6:30pm-9:00 for our Christmas party. Enjoy Santa pictures, princesses, train rides through the lights, food trucks, and many more activities.

(251) 639-1959 https://praisefamily.church/

Roll Mobile - Holiday Edition

@ Bienville Square

Mobile, AL 36602

We are turning all of Bienville Square into an outdoor roller skating rink. Entrance to the

skating event is free! Come on out, listen to the LIVE DJ, and skate the square with us. December 13 celebrates the theme of Christmas. 6-9pm (251) 208-1551 www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

ArtWalk Celebrates Christmas

@ Downtown Mobile Mobile, AL 36602

LoDa ArtWalk celebrates Christmas. Enjoy art, music, Santa, kids zone and more! 6:00pm9:00pm (251) 208-1551 www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

December 14, 2024

Satsuma Reindeer Run 5K and Fun Run

@ Baldwin Square

Old Highway 43 (Orange Ave Satsuma, AL 36572

Join us for the the Satsuma Reindeer Run. Register by mail (entries should be postmarked by December 3), online at events.com until 6AM December 12, or in person at McCoy Outdoor, Run-N-Tri, or Fleet Feet in Mobile until noon on December 12.

https://events.com/r/en_US/registration/reindeerrun-5k-and-fun-run-satsuma-december-953484

Candlelight Christmas at Oakleigh

350 Oakleigh Place Mobile, AL 36604

Join the Oakleigh Belles this year for Christmas at Oakleigh. 5:00pm-7:00pm. You can see one of Mobile’s oldest homes decorated for the season, learn about Oakleigh’s rich history and photos with Santa from 5:00pm-6:00pm.

(251) 432-1281 www.historicmobile.org/

Chickasaw Christmas Parade

50 Chieftain Way Chickasaw, AL 36611

Route begins at Chickasaw High School parking area and will parade north on Hwy 43 to PNC bank intersection. 3pm

https://cityofchickasaw.org/recreation-calendar/

Holiday Ornaments Make and Take

@ Mobile Botanical Gardens

5151 Museum Drive Mobile, AL 36608

Join us at 10am-noon, for a holiday ornaments make and take. Cookies and refreshments will also be served. This family fun event is FREE for MBG members or with the cost of admission, but registration is required. Email shabel@mbgardens. org to reserve your seat.

(251) 342-0555 www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org/ event/a-holiday-market-in-the-gardens/

Holiday Market

@ West Regional Public Library

5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL 36609

Chapter Crafters Holiday Market - 10am-1pm. Call for more information.

(251) 340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Holiday Homes Tour

350 Oakleigh Place Mobile, AL 36604

4th annual Holiday Homes Tour from 11am5pm. Live music, refreshments, arts market and food trucks at The Historic Oakleigh House all day. Tickets include admittance to Candlelight Christmas at Oakleigh that same evening from 5pm-7pm.

(251) 432-1281 www.historicmobile.org/events

Rat Pack Holiday Revue

@ OWA Theater

205 N OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535

Join us for a timeless Christmas experience with The Rat Pack Revue at OWA Theater on December 14th at 7:30 pm. https://visitowa.com/entertainment/owa-theater/

Christmas at the Exploreum

@ Exploreum Science Center

65 Government St. Mobile, AL 36602

Join us for a magical Christmas at the castle. Explore the wonders of the season through engaging demonstrations and hands-on STEM challenges. Enjoy Disney’s Frozen in our PCI Digital Dome Theater and for several holiday surprises. (251) 208-6893 www.exploreum.com

Saraland Mistletoe Market

@ Saraland Town Center Park at Splash Pad Saraland, AL 36571

Join us for the Annual Mistletoe Market from 9:00am–4:00pm, come shop, eat, and more! (251) 675-4444 www.saralandchamber.com

Saraland Christmas Parade

Saraland, AL 36571

The Saraland Civic Forum presents the 56th Annual Christmas Parade at 12pm. (251) 675-4444 www.saralandchamber.com

2024 Semmes Christmas Tour and Shop Hop

@ Various locations

Semmes, AL 36575

Semmes Woman’s Club invites you to share the joys of the upcoming season—the sights, the sounds, the smells, the flavors—with everyone who REALLY loves Christmas. 1pm-6pm. (251) 288-7972 www.facebook.com/semmeschristmastour/

Semmes Christmas Parade

Semmes, AL 36575

The Semmes Christmas Parade will take place at 10:00 a.m. It will start near Heritage Park on

Wulff Rd, turn on Hwy 98 headed east and end at Firetower Rd. (251) 649-8811 www.cityofsemmesal.gov

Grinchmas

@ Ben May Main Library

701 Government St Mobile, AL 36602

Join us in the Youth Programming Room for a Grinch movie morning. We plan to make Grinch ornaments, eat popcorn, and drink Grinch Punch! 10am (251) 340-1521 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Christmas on the River Boat Parade

@ Grand Mariner Restaurant and Marina 6036 Rock Point Rd Mobile, AL 36605

This year’s Christmas on the River Boat Parade will be December 14, 2024. at dusk. This year’s theme is “Christmas around the World”. (251) 443-7540 www.marinermarina.com

Mobile Museum of Art Holiday Market

@ Mobile Museum of Art

4850 Museum Dr Mobile, AL 36608

Celebrate the holidays at Mobile Museum of Art’s Holiday Market & Open House! Join us for local shopping, live music, food trucks, art activities, and free admission to the Museum. 2pm-5pm www.mobilemuseumofart.com/

Dawes Christmas Parade

@ Surge Church

2900 Dawes Road Mobile, AL 36695

Dawes Christmas Parade at 1pm. (251) 633-0033

December 14-15, 2024

Elf Academy

@ OWA

1501 South OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535

Bring the little ones to Downtown OWA where they’ll learn all the ins and outs of being one of Santa’s valued elves! (251) 923-2111 visitowa.com/christmas-at-owa/

Mobile Symphony Orchestra presents “Christmas Around the World”

@ Saenger Theatre

6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602

MSO celebrates the holidays with “Christmas Around the World.” Baritone Ricardo Jose Rivera joins the orchestra on a global musical journey, featuring beloved carols and festive favorites from nearly a dozen countries. December 14 -7:30pm, December 15-2:30pm. (251) 432-2010 www.mobilesymphony.org

December 15, 2024

A JOY Christmas

Celebration

ad on page 27

@ Christ United Church

6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609

Enjoy this inclusive, accessible and sensory friendly Christmas worship. 3:30pm. Fellowship Hall or Watch Live at christunited.com/live. (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com

Christmas at the Movies with Dance Without Limits

@ Murphy High School

100 S Carlen Street Mobile, AL 36606

Doors open at 1:30pm. The show will START at

2:00pm. Tickets required. Call for more information. www.givebutter.com/christmasprogram

December 16, 2024

Holiday Fun at Moorer - Holiday Movie

@ Moorer/Spring Hill Branch

4 McGregor Ave Mobile, AL 36608

Join us for a Holiday Fun time at Moorer. Come enjoy a winter-themed movie evening at Moorer! We’ll be watching a fun, snowy movie and having lots of wintery snacks. 3:30pm (251) 494-4132 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Christmas Concert by the Mobile Symphonic Pops

@ Davidson High School Auditorium

3900 Pleasant Valley Rd Mobile, AL 36609

Join The Mobile Symphonic Pops Band for our annual Christmas concert. 7pm. Free Admission www.themobilepops.com/

December 17, 2024

Mobile’s Singing Children Christmas Concert

@ Christ Church Cathedral 115 S Conception St Mobile, AL 36602

Mobile’s Singing Children Christmas ConcertSongs of Peace at 7:00pm. $10 suggested donation. www.mobilesingingchildren.org

Michael W. Smith: Every Christmas @ Saenger Theatre

6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602

Michael W. Smith: Every Christmas Concert with special guest Riley Clemmons www.mobilecivicctr.com/events

December 18, 2024

The Polar Express Experience

@ Ben May Main Library

701 Government St Mobile, AL 36602

Wear you pajamas and meet at our train station for a photo booth. Play reindeer games and watch The Polar Express. Receive a souvenir ornament to make and meet Santa. 10am-12pm. (251) 340-1507 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

December 19, 2024

Holiday STEAM at Main

@ Ben May Main Library

701 Government St Mobile, AL 36602

Let’s be Merry and have some STEAM fun. Join us in the Youth Programming room to explore science, technology, art, and math with a Holiday Flare. 4pm (251) 340-1507 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Polar Express Pajama Party

@ Virginia Dillard Smith/Toulminville Branch Library

601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL 36617

All aboard the Polar Express! Join us at the Toulminville Branch for a family-friendly Christmas movie night, featuring The Polar Express (2004), PG: 1h 40 mins., in your favorite holiday pajamas.

(251) 494-4982 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org/

December 19-23, 2024

Breakfast with Santa @ OWA

1501 South OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535

Join Jolly old Saint Nicholas for a holiday-themed breakfast and make Christmas memories that will last a lifetime. Join us for an exclusive Breakfast with Santa, where families can enjoy a delicious breakfast, engage in holiday crafts, and capture magical moments with Santa himself. (251) 923-2111 visitowa.com/christmas-at-owa/

December 20, 2024

The Mobile Pops Christmas Concert - MGM

@ MGM High School

4275 Snow Rd Semmes, AL 36575

Join The Mobile Symphonic Pops Band for our annual Christmas concert. Free admission. 7pm (251) 679-6036 www.themobilepops.com

December 20-22, 2024

Drama Camp Productions and Sunnyside Theater

present “Elf the Musical Jr.” ad on page 3

@ Joe Jefferson Playhouse

11 S Carlen St Mobile, AL 36606

Join us as we present Elf the Musical Jr. Shows - December 20 at 7pm, December 21 at 2pm and 7pm, and December 22 at 2pm. (251) 510-1808 www.sunnysidedrama.com

The Making of Scrooge: A Christmas Carol Prequel

@ OWA Theater

205 N OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535

This captivating Seward Studios production invites families to step back in time to 1802 England and witness the early years of Ebenezer Scrooge. This festive performance promises a delightful evening of holiday tunes, drama, and fun for the whole family — making it the perfect way to share some Christmas cheer!

https://visitowa.com/a-christmas-carol/

December 21, 2024

Milk and Cookies w/ Santa

Claus and Buddy the Elf ad on page 3

@ Azalea City Center for the Arts

11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL 36606

Come enjoy milk and cookies with Santa and Buddy the Elf to benefit Azalea City for the Arts. Tickets are $10 and include milk and cookies, coffee bar for adults, meet and greet with Santa and Buddy the Elf, digital photo album access from the event. 12:30pm (251) 510-1808 azaleacityarts.org

Mobile Ballet’s Nutcracker Holiday Brunch

ad on page 23

@ Dauphin’s

107 St Francis St Suite 3400 Mobile, AL 36602

Attendees will enjoy a delicious brunch on the

34th floor atop the RSA Trustmark building, with a panoramic view of Mobile Bay. Guests will get to meet beloved characters from the ballet, hear the story of The Nutcracker, and have fun photo ops – a great way to add to the magic of The Nutcracker for the whole family! The Brunch will be held prior to the Saturday matinee performance. This special event is a fundraiser for Mobile Ballet’s Relevé Project student assistant program, providing scholarships and financial assistance for students of all ages to have access to dance training and performing arts opportunities. Seating is limited. Tickets online. (251) 342-2241 www.mobileballet.org

Gingerbread Ball

@ The Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel 64 South Water Street Mobile, AL 36602

The Gingerbread Ball is a festive, family-friendly event providing fun for all ages. Enjoy taking pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus and a dinner buffet. Kids will get to enjoy story time with special guests from the North Pole while adults indulge in seasonal libations. 4:30pm-8:00pm www.eventbrite.com

Holiday Art Lab

@ West Regional Public Library

5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL 36609

Use your creativity and imagination to create your own work of art with various art supplies provided. Registration is required. 11am (251) 340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Carpe Diem’s Santa Run

@ Carpe Diem Coffee And Tea Company

4072 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL 36608

A 2 mile Fun-Run, walk, bike ride, dog walking, fun for the whole family charity event. Join the fun, spread the Christmas spirit. Holiday Costumes encouraged. Time: 10:00am. (251) 304-0448 www.carpe-coffee.com

December 21-22, 2024

Mobile Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”

ad on page 23

@ Saenger Theatre

6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602

Outstanding guest artists share the stage with Mobile Ballet Company and students in The Nutcracker, the cherished Mobile holiday tradition with exciting choreography by Artistic Director Katia Garza. This familiar favorite brings new life to the classic story that delights audiences of all ages. December 21-2:00pm, 7:00pm, December 22-2:00pm (251) 342-2241 www.mobileballet.org

Sugarplum Festival

@ OWA

1501 South OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535

A sweet holiday festival dedicated to arts and crafts vendors, sugary treats, and all things sugarplum! (251) 923-2111 visitowa.com/christmas-at-owa/

December 22, 2024

Christ United Kids

Christmas Service

ad on page 27

@ Christ United Church

6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609

Bring the kids for a fun and child-friendly Christ-

mas service. Everyone will enjoy Christmas singa-longs and an interactive telling of the Christmas story. Visit christmasinmobile.com for details. 5:00pm in the Christ Center Gym. (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com/

December 23, 2024

Saraland Movie Adventure:

The Polar Express

@ Saraland Public Library

111 Saraland Loop Saraland, AL 36571 (251) 675-2879 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org/

Home Alone Movie and Ice Cream Party

@ Ben May Main Library

701 Government St Mobile, AL 36602

Have Some Holiday Cheer! At 2:00pm–2:30pmBuild an awesome Ice Cream Sunday like Kevin does in the movie! Then at 2:30pm-4:30pm –Watch Home Alone. P.S. Santa is planning to drop by to pick up the last box of letters, so bring your letter to make sure it makes it to the North Pole. (251) 340-1507 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

December 24, 2024

Christmas Eve Candlelight Traditional Communion Services

ad on page 27

@ Christ United Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609

Sing Christmas carols along with our choir, meditate on scripture readings, listen to an inspirational Christmas message, and participate in Holy Communion. Each service will close with a special candle lighting and Silent Night. 6:00pm & 11:00pm in the Sanctuary or Watch Live at christmasinmobile.com.

(251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com/

NewSong’s

Christmas Eve Communion Services

ad on page 27

@ Christ United Church

6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609

Come and experience Christmas with our incredible live worship band and a meaningful Christmas message! The whole family will enjoy the celebration of God’s greatest gift with candlelight and Holy Communion. 4:00pm, Christ Center or Watch Live at christmasinmobile.com.

(251) 342-0462 https://christunited.com/

December 28, 2024

Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas

@ Saenger Theatre

6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602

The Annual A Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas concert will take place on December 28. (251) 208-5600 www.mobilecivicctr.com/events

December 31, 2024

Blessing of the Toys

ad on page 27

@ Christ United Church

6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609

We will celebrate New Year’s Eve Day with wor-

ship in NewSong and Sanctuary at 10:30am only. Families are encourage to attend and bring your child’s favorite toy! Our pastors will pray God’s blessing over the children and their toy during service. Visit christmasinmobile.com for details.

(251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com

Noon Year’s Eve Balloon Drop

at West Regional Library

@ West Regional Public Library

5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL 36609

Join us as we celebrate the New Year with crafts, games, activities, balloons- lots and lots of balloons. 11am-12pm.

(251) 340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Kids Confetti Drop

@ The Wharf

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561

If your little ones are too young to stay up until midnight, join us at The Wharf for our annual Kids Confetti Drop, featuring tons of family friendly activities plus an early daytime countdown to the new year. Event time is 10 am – 2 pm. Confetti drop at noon!

(251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Reelin’ In the New YearNYE Street Party

@ The Wharf

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561

Reel in the new year with us at The Wharf for our New Year’s Eve Street Party. Live bands, family friendly and adult-centered fun all rounding off at midnight with our marlin drop and fireworks. 5pm-Midnight.

(251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com

MoonPie Over Mobile -

New Year’s Eve Celebration

@ Downtown Mobile Mobile, AL 36602

Rock out of 2024 in downtown Mobile with the MoonPie Drop at midnight and jam to live music and an epic fireworks/laser light show! All the fun starts at 8 p.m. as Downtown Mobile.

(251) 208-1600 www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

Want to experience a more joyful holiday season this year that doesn’t leave you depleted, miserable and broke?

Here are 10 ways to shift your perspective and take command of this “hap-happiest” time of the year!

Thou shall qui T worshipping perfec T ion. Nothing burns holes into the fantasy holiday like real life. Maybe the tree is a lopsided, the dog ate your seven-year-old’s gingerbread house, or you were so focused on creating the best holiday ever that you ended up too sick to enjoy it when the big day finally arrived.

“Decide to do things differently this year. Strive for the good and be satisfied with the good. Too often the focus is on the result, and we tend to lose focus on the beautiful process of getting to the result,” says therapist Julia Flynn, LCPC, CRADC.

Thou shall no T overcommi T . Decide ahead of time which activities won’t work this year. Instead of committing to five parties and multiple gift exchanges, choose a few that you’re enthusiastic about attending.

“Be firm, decisive and assertive, always coming from a place of love for everyone and keeping the focus on the origin of the holidays,” Flynn says, who specializes in helping women manage anxiety, depression and holiday overwhelm. “Graciously decline and send a nice card or note.”

Thou shall rediscover “ T he why.” Take time to reevaluate your priorities. How do you want the season to feel? What do you want your kids to remember most?

“Sometimes we need to take a step back and ask ourselves why this time of year is important to us because I think ‘the why’ gets lost. It just becomes an expectation of self and family—or whoever— to have it look a certain way,” says Maki Moussavi, a transformational coach, speaker and author of The High Achievers Guide: Transform your Success Mindset and Begin the Quest to Fulfillment. “Take a step back to assess, from an intangible, emotional perspective, why the holidays are important.”

Thou shall res T . Self-care is essential all year long, but especially during the extra busy holidays when you’re stress level is more likely to sky-rocket. Pare down your list to what reasonably makes sense for your health, time and emotional wellbeing. And practice restorative techniques that relax and re-energize you.

Simple ways to recharge include a warm bath, watching a favorite TV show, a walk outside, curling up with a juicy novel, a nap or a massage.

Thou shall honor T hy family. Attempts to please others by saying yes to everyone else’s holiday gatherings without taking into account you and your family’s desires can cause undue anxiety, frustration and resentment.

“The holidays are about family time, appreciating one another and caring for each other. If the focus is switched to the less important gift exchanges and gatherings, all planned at the same time, you can’t enjoy the experience and the original meaning is lost,” Flynn says.

For those events that you’d like to attend, but can’t, firmly communicate to your extended family or friends that you value time spent with them and would like to discuss alternative ideas

for getting together. And, don’t feel guilty about standing by your decisions.

“You have every right in the world to establish what you want your holiday tradition to be. You are not obligated to participate in somebody else’s version of the season,” Moussavi says.

Thou shall invi T e T hy par T ner’s par T icipaT ion. If you feel overwhelmed and stressed because you’re trying to manage the bulk of holiday prep on top of working and taking care of your family, ask your spouse for help. Discuss what you’d both like the season to look and feel like.

“Sometimes it’s not that men don’t want to be involved. It’s that they are never invited to be, and they don’t ask,” Moussavi says.

Maybe your husband can mail the packages for out of town family, purchase tickets to the holiday play your family wants to see, or take charge of a few of the gifts.

Thou shall no T allow o T hers T o s T eal T hy happiness. Plan ahead for those individuals who love to bait you into an upsetting conversation at annual gatherings. Since you know how the person is likely to behave, rehearse how you will respond when they pounce.

“The only thing you can do is get better at making it clear what you will and won’t tolerate,” Moussavi says. “You have to shut it down. You standing up for yourself is normal, empowered adult behavior.”

Arm yourself with responses like: “I’m here to enjoy myself. I don’t want to talk about that right now.” Or, “Let’s agree to disagree.”

Also, physically exit from the situation by saying: “I’m going to go refresh my drink.” Or, “I have to make a call.”

Thou shall simplify. “The holiday can be manageable and simple if we allow it to be,” Flynn says. “What makes the holiday so difficult is our own thinking about it. We make it difficult for ourselves.”

Experiment with small changes that can relieve your stress. Hire a caterer for your party. Forgo Christmas cards this year. For the relative who has everything, send flowers or make a donation in their name to an organization that is important to them.

Thou shall no T compe T e wi T h T hy neighbors. As Theodore Roosevelt once quipped: “Comparison is the thief of joy.” Some people enjoy casting their home in a professionally-created holiday glow while others prefer to hang a festive wreath on their door and call it good. Do what brings you pleasure and makes sense for your budget.

Thou shall give from T hy hear T . Rather than twisting yourself in knots seeking the perfect present for everyone on your list, take a more light-hearted approach to gift-giving. For example, give a t-shirt with a meaningful quote, a digital photo album commemorating a fun getaway, or an experience like tickets to the zoo or a concert. Volunteering your time is also a fulfilling way to give.

“If you are intentional, you can make the holidays about the ideas of love, caring for one another, understanding, enjoying quality time together and treating each other as the precious beings each of us are,” Flynn says.

Freelance writer Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two sons and a menagerie of pets. Her intention this holiday is to slow down and focus more on the magic of the season and less on lopsided Christmas trees.

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Wednesday December 4

W.O.N.D.E.R. Wednesdays Homeschool Family Nature Walks (Free for members or with the cost of admission.)

10:00 AM Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Join Mobile Botanical Gardens for engaging, hour-long guided nature walks, specifically designed for homeschooling families. Attendance is limited and registration is required. Please email shabel@mbgardens.org for registration. 251-342-0555 www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org/

Thursday December 5

Tales and Trails in the Gardens Preschool Storytime (Free for MBG members or with regular admission.)

10:30 AM Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us on Thursday mornings beginning at 10:30 am in various locations throughout MBG’s 106 acres to enjoy preschool storytime together. MBG Docents will read aloud specially selected stories and lead nature-based activities perfect for preschoolers. Registration required, register online. 251-342-0555 www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org

DISL Research Lab Guided Tour ($10 per person)

1:45 PM 101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Did you know that the Dauphin Island Sea Lab is the home campus of nearly 20 research labs, run by scientists studying a broad diversity of topics, from deep sea bacteria to hurricanes to manatees, and much more? Get a behind-the-scenes look at the research labs of the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. Recommended for ages 12 & up. Children 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

www.disl.edu/events/lab-guided-tour/

Hargrove Foundation Gala

6:00 PM Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel, 64 S Water St Mobile, AL, 36602 The Hargrove Foundation will host its ninth annual gala at the Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel on Thursday, December 5, 2024, in Mobile, Alabama. This year, Mobile-born, Hall-of-Fame Shortstop Ozzie Smith and Olympic Legend, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, will serve as keynote speakers. https://hargrovefoundation.org/2024-foundation-gala

Blackberry Smoke Concert

8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 Six String Southern Productions Presents Blackberry Smoke Be Right Here Tour with special guests The Georgia Thunderbolts www.mobilecivicctr.com/events

Beach, Dune, and Maritime Forest Excursion ($15 per person) 9:45 PM Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 On this excursion you will walk through the maritime forest, then on to the dunes and beach. You will learn about native plants and the benefits of an intact dune system. You’ll see many coastal animals and even dig for mole and ghost crabs. You will get to use nets and critter catchers to get an up close look at any creatures that you might come across. https://www.disl.edu/events/beach-excursion/

Friday December 6

Mobile Parks and Recreation - Movies in the Park (Free)

6:00 PM Harmon Community Center, 1611 Belfast St Mobile, AL, 36605 December 6: Despicable Me 4 (PG) www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/news/movies-in-thepark-to-return-on-august-16/

Boar’s Head Festival

7:00 PM 5860 College Parkway Mobile, AL, 36613

The “Boar’s Head Festival” returns to the University of Mobile. This medieval-themed Christmas celebration that was an annual tradition from 1971 to 2000 includes madrigal songs, a themed dinner and a short performance of “The Second Shepherd’ Play.” https://asota.umobile.edu/event/boars-head-festival/

Outback Presents Justin Willman

The Illusionati Tour

8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 Justin Willman’s ILLUSIONATI tour is an interactive evening of magic, comedy and mind-control for the whole family. www.mobilecivicctr.com/events

Sea Lab Science Friday: Ocean STEM

Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 E Beach Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528

Sea Lab Science Friday: Ocean Animal BiologyTimes: 9:30am, 1pm, 3pm.

Sign up online. www.bit.ly/SeaLabScienceFridays

Sea Lab Science Friday: STEM:

The Ocean Version ($10 per class)

Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Sea Lab Science Friday is a ‘drop-in’ field class program hosted by Discovery Hall Programs perfect for homeschooled students, parents and caretakers seeking enrichment opportunities. Learners can participate in one, two, or all three of the classes offered during Science Friday. Ocean Drifters - 9:30-11:30 am, Trash(in) the Ocean - 1:00-3:00 pm, ROVing the Gulf - 3:00-5:00 pm www.disl.edu/events/science-friday-stem/

Saturday December 7

December Living History Crew Drill

8:00 AM - 3:00 PM, USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Parkway, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 Come see history come to life with our WWII reenactors during our December drill. Interact with historical WWII reenactors aboard the USS ALABAMA and USS DRUM. These historical reenactors, dressed in WWII period Navy uniforms, demonstrate what life aboard ship was like during wartime. They share stories from our original crewmen, conduct weapons briefings, and demonstrate drills while aboard ship. ussalabama.com/event/december-living-history-crew-drill/

Bayou Half Marathon & 4-Miler

8:00 AM Bayou la Batre – near the intersection of Shell Belt Road and Alabama’s Coastal Connection., Bayou la Batre, AL We are collecting toys and items for distraction (coloring books, puzzles, craft kits) for the children at USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital and the children in the care of the Child Advocacy Center in Mobile, AL. portcitypacers.com/bells-in-the-bayou-half-marathon/

Dog Man Hero Party

3:00 PM - 5:15 PM, Haunted Bookshop, 9 S. Joachim St. Mobile, AL, 36602 Who’s ready for a Hero Party? We are, and so is our good friend Dog Man! Join us for a hot-diggity-dog bash on December 7, 2024, 3-5:15PM, in celebration of the next installment in the Dav Pilkey’s Dog Man series, Dog Man: Big Jim Begins! Dog Man fans should expect Dog Man-themed activities, treats, giveaways, photo opportunity, and a visit from our favorite crime fighter. www.eventbrite.com/e/dog-man-hero-party-tickets-1048358487457

Exploreum Die Hard + Nakatomi Christmas Party

6:00 PM 65 Government St. Mobile, AL, 36602 Since Die Hard is a Christmas movie, the Exploreum is throwing a full-on Nakatomi Christmas party before the film. Blast to the past by using some irresponsible science to make your own souvenir Nakatomi Christmas buttons or a nostalgic Shrinky-Dink. 21+ event www.exploreum.com/event/exploreum-after-hoursdie-hard-nakatomi-christmas-party-2/

Boar’s Head Festival

7:00 PM 5860 College Parkway Mobile, AL, 36613 The “Boar’s Head Festival” returns to the University of Mobile. This medieval-themed Christmas celebration that was an annual tradition from 1971 to 2000 includes madrigal songs, a themed dinner and a short performance of “The Second Shepherd’ Play.” https://asota.umobile.edu/event/boars-head-festival/

Thursday December 12

Toddler Time - Mobile Museum of Art ($5 members per child per session | $10 non-members per child per session)

10:00 AM Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Dr. Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for single sessions of sensory-based art projects designed especially for toddlers and preschool children. Toddler Time is open to children ages 1 through 5. Registration online. www.mobilemuseumofart.com

Tales and Trails in the Gardens Preschool Storytime (Free for MBG members or with regular admission.) 10:30 AM Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us on Thursday mornings beginning at 10:30 am in various locations throughout MBG’s 106 acres to enjoy preschool storytime together. MBG Docents will read aloud specially selected stories and lead nature-based activities perfect for preschoolers. Registration required, register online.

251-342-0555 www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org

Friday December 13

DISL Research Lab Guided Tour ($10 per person)

1:45 PM 101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528

Did you know that the Dauphin Island Sea Lab is the home campus of nearly 20 research labs, run by scientists studying a broad diversity of topics, from deep sea bacteria to hurricanes to manatees, and much more? Get a behind-the-scenes look at the research labs of the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. Recommended for ages 12 & up. Children 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

www.disl.edu/events/lab-guided-tour/

Research Vessel Excursion ($30 per person)

3:00 PM Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Join a professional Dauphin Island Sea Lab Educator for a two-hour boat trip in the waters surrounding Dauphin Island. Here you will learn about the diverse environment and animals around Mobile Bay. Our captain will do a short trawl to produce a sampling of animals that live in Mobile Bay.

www.disl.edu/events/boat-excursion/

Make a Wish Night

6:00 PM Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel, 64 S Water St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for a night full of wishes and wonder! Our 2024 Mobile Wish Night will take place on Friday, December 13, starting at 6 PM. https://wish.org/alabama/wish-night

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Saturday December 14

Excursion to the Bottle Creek Indian Mound Complex

9:00 AM Live Oak Landing, 8700 Live Oak Rd Road Stockton, AL, 36579 The stunning Bottle Creek site, accessible only by boat, features 18 earthen mounds built centuries ago by Native Americans and was once of the largest communities in the Southeast. www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events/AgentType/View/PropertyID/235

Kids Fishing Day (Free for children under 12 and overnight guests, $3 park entry fee for guests over 12. ) 8:00 PM Meaher State Park-Alabama, 5200 Battleship Pkwy East Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us at Meaher State Park for a fun morning of fishing with our naturalist! Kids 15 and under do not need a fishing license, but anyone 16+ wishing to take part must have a freshwater fishing license. https://reserve.alapark.com/register/kids-fishing

Sunday December 15

Cruise to the Site of Old Mobile Live Oak Landing, 8700 Live Oak Rd Road Stockton, AL, 36579 Join us for a one-of-a-kind excursion through the storied waters of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta as we journey to the original site of the town of Mobile, founded in 1702. www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

Monday December 16

Live Nation Presents Colter Wall & Friends 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 Live Nation Presents Colter Wall & Friends www.mobilecivicctr.com/events

Wednesday December 18

W.O.N.D.E.R.

Wednesdays Homeschool Family Nature Walks (Free for members or with the cost of admission.)

10:00 AM Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Join Mobile Botanical Gardens for engaging, hour-long guided nature walks, specifically designed for homeschooling families. Attendance is limited and registration is required. Please email shabel@mbgardens.org. 251-342-0555 www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org/ event/a-holiday-market-in-the-gardens/

Thursday December 19

Tales and Trails in the Gardens Preschool Storytime (Free for MBG members or with regular admission.) 10:30 AM Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us on Thursday mornings beginning at 10:30 am in various locations throughout MBG’s 106 acres to enjoy preschool storytime together. MBG Docents will read aloud specially selected stories and lead nature-based activities perfect for preschoolers. Registration required, register online. 251-342-0555 www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org

Family Art - Mobile Museum of Art ($5 members per child per session | $10 non-members per child per session) 1:00 PM Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Dr. Mobile, AL, 36608 This class is for families to create

together. Each month will feature a different art medium with a project tied to the MMofA collection. Parents are encouraged to stay and create with their families. Suitable for homeschool families. Registration online. www.mobilemuseumofart.com

Saturday December 21

Mobile Arts Expo

12:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Mardi Gras Park, Mobile, AL, 36602 Immerse yourself in a vibrant world of art, crafts, vintage collections, fun, entertainment, and creativity at the Mobile Arts Expo www.mobileartexpo.com

Sunday December 22

Greer’s Markets/This is Alabama Mardi Gras 5:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 The skies of downtown Mobile will be filled with beads, moon pies and more as the 68 Ventures Bowl presents Mobile’s largest Mardi Gras Parade with floats from 20 mystic societies. This event is free and open to the public. https://68venturesbowl.com/

Thursday December 26

This Is Alabama Street Party

4:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 “This Is Alabama Street Party” will be on Dauphin St from South Jackson St to South Royal St. Tailgate-5pm (ticketed event) Kidszone-5pm, player parade/walk-5:30pm, Pep rally-6pm, Battle of the bands-6:30pm https://68venturesbowl.com/

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68 Ventures Bowl

8:00 PM Hancock Whitney Stadium, 500 Stadium Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 The 68 Ventures Bowl will be played at Hancock Whitney Stadium in Mobile, Alabama on December 26, 2024 at 8 pm CST. https://68venturesbowl.com/

Friday January 3

Mobile RV Show

and explore a wide variety of RVs, from sleek, highend motorhomes to cozy budget-friendly trailers, all conveniently located under one roof. https://www.rvsupershows.com/

Tuesday January 7

Sunday January 12

Mobile Marathon presented by Infirmary Health 7:30 AM Mobile, AL For 2025, we will feature Full and Half Marathons, Team competition (Full and Half) and a Fun Run. This event benefits First Light Community Foundation of Mobile https://mobilemarathon.org/

10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 S Water St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us at our RV show and explore a wide variety of RVs, from sleek, highend motorhomes to cozy budgetfriendly trailers, all conveniently located under one roof. https://www. rvsupershows. com/

Saturday January 4

Mobile RV Show

10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 S Water St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us at our RV show and explore a wide variety of RVs, from sleek, highend motorhomes to cozy budget-friendly trailers, all conveniently located under one roof. https://www.rvsupershows.com/

Sunday January 5

Mobile RV Show

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 S Water St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us at our RV show

Classical Arts Entertainment Presents Swan Lake by The State Ballet Theater of Ukraine 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 S. Joachim St. Mobile, AL, 36602 The prestigious State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine presents the classic Swan Lake January 7th.

www.mobilecivicctr.com/events/detail/swan-lake-2

Friday January 10

The Black Jacket Symphony Presents “Abbey Road” + The Beatles’ Greatest Hits 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 250 Conti St Mobile, AL, 36602

Saturday January 11

The Madame Rose Palmai-Tenser Scholarship Competition

5:30 PM The Larkins Music Center, 257 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The final stage in the competition will be held Saturday, January 11, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at the Larkins Music Center, 257 Dauphin St. Mobile, Alabama. Each competitor will perform two arias from standard opera and operetta repertoire in an order randomly selected by drawing. After each competitor performs, Scholarships will be awarded.

www.mobileopera.org/event/the-madame-rosepalmai-tenser-scholarship-competition/

Park East Mobile, AL, 36606

Monday January 13

Auditions for Sunny Side Theatres

Elephant & Piggie: We Are in A Play

6:00 PM 63 Midtown

Auditions for Sunny Side Theatres Elephant & Piggie: We Are in A play - Open to grades k-5

www.sunnysidedrama.com/upcoming

Tuesday January 14

Auditions for Sunny Side Theatres Elephant & Piggie: We Are in A Play

6:00 PM 63 Midtown Park East Mobile, AL, 36606 Auditions for Sunny Side Theatres Elephant & Piggie: We Are in A play - Open to grades k-5 www.sunnysidedrama.com/upcoming

Thursday January 16

Chickasaw Civic Theatre Presents I Do I Do

7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois St Mobile, AL, 36611 This musical is the story of two people married for fifty years of love, quarrels and marriage. A nostalgic look back at the ups and downs

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and the love and fortitude it took to keep the marriage together.

https://cctshows.com/

Friday January 17

Chickasaw Civic Theatre Presents I Do I Do

7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois St Mobile, AL, 36611 This musical is the story of two people married for fifty years of love, quarrels and marriage. A nostalgic look back at the ups and downs and the love and fortitude it took to keep the marriage together.

https://cctshows.com/

Saturday January 18

Chickasaw Civic Theatre Presents I Do I Do

7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois St Mobile, AL, 36611 This musical is the story of two people married for fifty years of love, quarrels and marriage. A nostalgic look back at the ups and downs and the love and fortitude it took to keep the marriage together.

https://cctshows.com/

Kids Fishing Day (Free for children under 12 and overnight guests, $3 park entry fee for guests over 12. )

8:00 PM Meaher State Park-Alabama, 5200 Battleship Pkwy East Spanish Fort, AL, 36527

Join us at Meaher State Park for a fun morning of fishing with our naturalist! Kids 15 and under do not need a fishing

license, but anyone 16+ wishing to take part must have a freshwater fishing license. https://reserve.alapark.com/register/kids-fishing

Sunday January 19

Chickasaw Civic Theatre Presents I Do I Do

2:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois St Mobile, AL, 36611 This musical is the story of two people married for fifty years of love, quarrels and marriage. A nostalgic look back at the ups and downs and the love and fortitude it took to keep the marriage together.

https://cctshows.com/

Mobile Chamber Music ConcertPianist Simone Dinnerstein

3:00 PM USA Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA S Dr Mobile, AL, 36608 Mobile Chamber Music Concert - Pianist Simone Dinnerstein www.mobilechambermusic.org/ticket_info.php

Tuesday January 21

Patti Cudd, Guest Artist Percussion Recital

7:30 PM USA Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Dr. Patti Cudd will present a guest artist percussion recital on Tuesday, January 21 at 7:30 p.m. in the Laidlaw Performing Arts Center Recital Hall. www.cityofmobile.org

Saturday January 25

Chickasaw Civic Theatre Presents I Do I Do

7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois St Mobile, AL, 36611 This musical is the story of two

people married for fifty years of love, quarrels and marriage. A nostalgic look back at the ups and downs and the love and fortitude it took to keep the marriage together.

https://cctshows.com/

Dauphin Island Gumbo Festival

531 Lemoyne Dr Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Get ready to spice up your winter at the Dauphin Island Gumbo Festival on January 25, 2025! Join us for a flavorful celebration of the Gulf Coast’s favorite dish, with plenty of mouthwatering gumbo and local fun. https://dauphinislandchamberofcommerce.com/ events/dauphin-island-gumbo-festival/

Every Monday

Read and Sign (ASL) Storytime at West Regional Library

3:30 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Meeting Room for books, songs, sign language and for ages 3 - 5! 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Tuesday

Read and Play Storytime

10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us in Bernheim Hall for a socially distant storytime event. Masks are required. Children enjoy 20 minutes of books, songs, manipulatives, and rhymes, with an emphasis on repetition for their developing minds. Story and book time is followed by a time of free play with a sensory activity. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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Good Listener Storytime

10:00 AM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Pkwy B Mobile, AL, 36605 Join us for fun with stories, words that rhyme, games and crafts too! This storytime event is designed for ages 3 – 7. Registration is required. To register, or for more information, please email Me. Get at lafayette@mplonline.org, or call her at (251) 494-4454. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday Time Out Storytime at Grand Bay

11:00 AM Grand Bay Library, 10329 Freeland Ave Grand Bay, AL, 36541 Entertaining storytime designed for preschool-aged children! Join us in the Meeting Room at the Grand Bay Library for fun stories, song and crafts. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Read and Sign (ASL) Storytime at West Regional Library

3:30 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Meeting Room for books, songs, sign language and for ages 3 - 5! 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Wednesday

Good Listener Storytime

10:00 AM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 McGregor Ave Mobile, AL, 36608 Good Listener Storytime 251-494-4140 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Wonderful Wednesday Storytime

10:00 AM - 10:30 AM, Theodore Oaks, 5808 US-90 West E Theodore, AL, 36582 Join us for stories and

songs and lots of fun! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Shake, Rattle, & Read Storytime at West Regional Library

10:00 AM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Meeting Room every Wednesday and Thursday morning at 10:00 a.m. for this storytime program designed for infants and children up to age three. Help stimulate their early literacy skills and enjoy meeting other parents! 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Preschooler Storytime

10:30 AM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, AL, 36571 Preschooler Storytime 251-675-2879 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Good Listener Storytime at Semmes

10:30 AM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Join us for stories, songs, and dances! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Listen & Learn Storytime

11:00 AM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Storytime has many benefits for children such as promoting early literacy, language development, help develop concentration, social skills, communication skills, and encourages their imagination and creativity. Join us in the Storytime room at West Regional for fun stories and songs. Ideal for ages 3-5 years. 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Second Wednesday

Learning Lunch (Free) 12:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 This series allows guests to enjoy free presentations on a wide range of historical and cultural topics. Admission to Learning Lunch is free. Bring your lunch and enjoy complimentary beverages.

251-208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Every Thursday

Shake, Rattle, & Read Storytime at West Regional Library

10:00 AM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Meeting Room every Wednesday and Thursday morning at 10:00 a.m. for this storytime program designed for infants and children up to age three. Help stimulate their early literacy skills and enjoy meeting other parents!

251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Story Time

11:00 AM The Haunted Book Shop, 9 S Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for a story time each Thursday at 11:30 am in our children’s section. Free event, no registration is required. (251) 348-7668 thehauntedbookshopmobile.com

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Chess Club

3:00 PM - 5:30 PM, Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Semmes Regional Library Chess Club is designed for children and teens ages 6 - 18. Playing chess improves concentration and problem-solving skills. No experience is necessary www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Throwdown Thursday - Video and Board Games for Teens at West

3:30 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 This is a laid-back meetup to unwind playing games with other teens. We will have various board games, nintendo switch, playstation and xbox games for multiplayer matchups that include various genres - puzzle, racing, fighting, shooting, and open-world-type games. Sometimes there will also be additional activities like 3d pens and fuse beads for expressing your creative side! 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every other Friday

Beginner Guitar Lessons for Kids (Free)

4:00 PM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Is your child interested in learning to play the guitar? Now’s their chance! Join us in the Semmes Meeting Room for FREE lessons. Lesson books will be available. However, Please bring your own guitar. For children ages 6-11. Registration is required. To register and for more information, please call 251-494-4935. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Second Friday

LoDA Artwalk

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Celebrating the arts in downtown Mobile! Explore this free monthly showcase of visual and performing arts. www.mobilearts.org/art-walk/

Every Saturday Chess Club for Everyone

2:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 McGregor Ave Mobile, AL, 36608 Beginners and experienced players welcome! Playing chess improves concentration and problem-solving skills. Join us at Monte L. Moorer/Spring Hill Branch for chess club designed for ages 6 and up. 251-494-4140 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every other Saturday Snuggling Stories

10:30 AM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, AL, 36571 Join us at the Saraland Public Library to enjoy fun stories, songs, movements, and a craft.

251-675-2879 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

First Sunday of the month

Free First Sunday - History Museum of Mobile (Free) 1:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Free admission for all visitors sponsored by Wind Creek Hospitality every first Sunday of the month! 251-208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Please send your calendar events to lynn@mobilebayparents.com.

Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

Safe Tech and Social Media Gift Ideas

for Kids Ages 6-16 This Christmas

As Christmas approaches, you may face the challenge of choosing fun but also safe and beneficial gifts for your children. In a world increasingly influenced by technology, plenty of options blend enjoyment with educational value while ensuring safety. So, I compiled a quick guide to help you select safe tech and social media ideas for kids aged 6-16 this holiday season.

Educational tech toys are a great way to ease young kids into the tech world. For younger children, consider tech toys that emphasize learning through play. Here are some gifts that can provide both entertainment and education:

Osmo Genius

Starter Kit: This interactive learning game combines physical play with digital learning. Kids can engage in activities that cover math, spelling, and creativity while using an iPad or Fire tablet. It’s an excellent way to develop critical skills in a fun, engaging manner.

ing them access to safer platforms designed specifically for younger audiences:

Kidzworld Membership is a moderated social network that is tailored for kids aged 9-16, allowing them to connect, chat, and share content in a safe environment. A membership can provide a fun way to interact with peers without the risks associated with mainstream platforms.

PopJam App Gift Card is another alternative. PopJam is a creative platform for kids aged 7-12, where they can share art and engage with others in a kid-friendly space. A gift card can provide them with the chance to enhance their experience on this platform.

LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox combines the beloved LEGO building blocks with coding. This kit allows children to build and program robots and models. It’s a perfect blend of creativity and STEM learning, encouraging problem-solving and engineering skills.

Scribblenaut is another fun game for elementary school-age kids (adults can join in the fun, too!). The game involves creativity, learning, and spelling.

If we talk tech, we must talk about Safe Social Media Alternatives. If your child is ready to explore social media, consider gift-

It is also important that we explore safe phone alternatives. If you are hesitant about giving your child a smartphone, consider some safer alternatives that facilitate communication without the risks associated with full-fledged devices:

The Gabb Phone allows for calling and texting but does not have internet access or social media capabilities. It’s an excellent option for parents wanting to keep their children connected without exposing them to the distractions and dangers of smart devices.

A Relay Device is a screen-free communication device that works like a walkie-talkie. Kids can send voice messages to family members, making it a fun way to stay in touch without the complications of smartphones! Some of my best memories are of my brother and I running around with walkie-talkies we got for Christmas!

Gifts that encourage STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning can be both enjoyable and educational.

Consider the Kano Computer Kit. This DIY computer kit allows kids to build their own computer and learn coding through fun projects. It’s suitable for ages six and up, making tech learning accessible and engaging.

For older kids and teens interested in coding, a Raspberry Pi offers endless possibilities for building and programming projects. This gift can spark a lifelong interest in technology and programming.

Last but not least, don’t forget parental control devices and apps. Gifts like Circle Home Plus allow parents to manage screen time, filter content, and monitor usage across all connected devices in the home. Remember the router options are available. Gryphon is a great one to consider. The good news is that many of these routers, toys, and apps have sales between now and Christmas so that you can snag a good deal.

Remember, the goal is to create a balanced relationship with technology—one that fosters learning and connection while minimizing risks. Happy holiday shopping!

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate.

She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.