What's the Buzz? Six great weekend events for families!

To contact us Click HERE
Friday: 5-11-2012


Boogie Babies will offer a special monthly craft day by The Learning Experience with your standard paid playtime admission. You must register to participate in the special craft and this event is limited to 20 kids ages 12 months and up. Kids will receive name tags so call 248.852.6288 and get on guest list. No promotional deals like Groupon, LivingSocial, etc. will be accepted. Boogie Babies 10 passes and monthly passes are OK.

Friday: 10 am to 11am

1928 Star Batt Dr. Suite B
Rochester Hills, MI
48309

See our review of Boogie Babies.
Get an email reminder from our calendar!






Friday Night Live! At the DIA


The Tony Scherr Trio 7 & 8:30 PM
The Tony Scherr Trio bring their particular brand of American folk-rock to Detroit from their regular gigs at New York City’s The Living Room and Brooklyn’s Jalopy Theatre. Best known for his bass work with Bill Frisell and Sex Mob, Tony Scherr is also an inspired guitarist and singer. His Trio was formed in 2006 with legendary drummer/producer Anton Fier (Feelies, Golden Palominos) and bassist Rob Jost (Ursa Minor).


Drop-In Workshop: Scrolls 6-9 p.m.
Scrolls used in ancient Eastern Mediterranean and Egyptian civilizations were the first form of record keeping. Use paper, wooden dowels, and markers to create a version of your own.


Drawing in the Galleries for Youth 6–9 p.m.
(Ages 6–14, children 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult)
Artist/instructors help participants create pencil drawings to take home. No experience necessary; materials provided.
Location: See the This Week at the DIA handout at any Information Desk.


Guided Tours
6 and 7:30 p.m.
Highlights of the museum tours offered at both times.



Saturday, May 12, 2012


Touch-a-Truck - Ann Arbor Briarwood Mall
May 12th from 9am to 12noon in the back parking lot at Briarwood Mall.
Kids can get up close with some of their favorite trucks and vehicles including fire engines, school buses, and much, much more! Free fun for the whole family!
Date: May 12 2012 9 am - noon
Location: Briarwood Mall Parking Lot, 100 Briarwood Circle, Ann Arbor
http://www.washtenawsuccessby6.org/great-start-parent-coalition/touch-a-truck




Thomas the Tank Engine™ in Greenfield Village
Thomas the Tank Engine™ chugs into Greenfield Village for 6 days of family fun and entertainment! Ride with Thomas around the village, meet Sir Topham Hatt™, enjoy storytelling, live music, shopping and much, much more. Advance tickets are recommended. Time slots sell out quickly. Members of The Henry Ford receive free Greenfield Village admission and an exclusive opportunity to purchase Thomas ride tickets in advance.

The 2012 Day Out With Thomas™ event takes place on Saturdays and Sundays, April 28-29, May 5-6, 12-13, 2012.

pricing
MEMBERS $11.75 per person, age 1 year & older
NON-MEMBER
SENIORS age 62 & up $33.75
ADULTS age 13-61, $35.75
YOUTH age 5-12, $29.25
CHILD age 1-4 $11.75
All INFANTS under 1 year are free



Sunday, May 13, 2012



Mother's Day Breakfast at the Detroit Zoo
Sun May 13 @08:00 - 10:00AM
Mother's Day Breakfast - Treat mom to a wild time! Moms and their families are invited to celebrate Mother’s Day at the Detroit Zoo, starting with a delicious buffet breakfast among the butterflies. Mother’s Day Breakfast will be held in the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery on Sunday, May 13, 2012, 8 to 10 a.m. The event includes access to the Butterfly Garden and the opportunity for children to make a special gift for Mom.




Celebrate Mother's Day at the Farm - Kensington Metropark
Sunday, May 13 from noon to 4 pm
Kensington Metropark Farm Center
Come visit the farm with your family and see the farm mamas taking care of their babies. Hayrides will be running for the holiday.
Event Fee: Hayrides: $3 per child/$5 per adult - Moms are free
Contact: 248-685-8632

What's the Buzz? Memorial Day Weekend Activities

To contact us Click HERE
There is so much to do this weekend with picnics, swimming and barbecues, but just in case you need some activities to fill your weekend with family fun, here are some of our favorites from our calendar of events:

Friday, May 25, 2012: 12:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Free Admission at the Troy Family Aquatic Center
Location: Troy Family Aquatic Center
3425 Civic Center DriveTroy, MI 48084
248.524.3514


Enjoy all the Aquatic Center has to offer for FREE including a kiddy area, main pool picnic area, sand play, volleyball, water slides and more!!!



Saturday, May 26th: 10 am to noon
Madison Heights Memorial Day Parade


Come join us in honoring those who served or lost their lives for our country at the Annual Memorial Day Parade on Saturday, May 26th. The Memorial Day Parade begins at 10:00 a.m. at 12 Mile and John R, travels north along John R to 13 Mile, and will conclude in front of City Hall. Look for details on the City cable channels. People are asked to bring their own lawn chairs, and sit along the parade route. For additional information call Martha Kehoe at 248.548.7929 or Andy McGillivray at 248.589.9207.


Prior to the parade, everyone is invited to attend the Community Pancake Breakfast at the Senior Citizen Center (located at 29448 John R) from 8:00 – 10:00 am on Memorial Day. All you can eat pancakes for $6.00 per adult and $4.00 per child will be available. After enjoying a pancake breakfast, head out to the front lawn of the Center and enjoy one of the best locations to see the parade! 

Cancel Monday at Partridge Creek

Summer Sounds at Partridge Creek
Meet. Eat. And shop to the beat of live entertainment.Enjoy live music every day while you shop, dine and stroll to all of your favorite tunes performed by local musicians.
17420 Hall Rd, Clinton Township, MI 48038(586) 226-0330

Saturday, May 26 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. The Randy Brock GroupSunday, May 27 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Rick & Dayna LiederMonday, May 28 (Memorial Day)1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Cancel Monday
Memorial Day Parade
Date: May 28th, 2012
Time: 11am
Location: Downtown Auburn Hills/cemetery/American Legion Hall on Churchill

Sky Zone in Canton

To contact us Click HERE
"Why run when you can fly?" the Sky Zone website asks.  Valid question, although you won't see me running anywhere anytime soon;)  (being less than 2 weeks away from delivering my third child).   I decided to venture out to Sky Zone's Grand Opening with my two children, Damian (age 16) and Rosa (age 3). 

Dodge Ball Court

Sky Zone is the World's First All Trampoline, Walled Playing Court.  The Canton location (Sky Zone's 21st) offers an open jump experience that inlcudes multiple dodge ball courts, foam pits, basketball and open pits.  Located at 42550 Executive Drive in Canton, their location is just north of Michigan Avenue, and west of Haggerty and I-275. 

Foam Pit

Upon arrival I was instructed to fill out a waiver for myself and the children.  (This can be done online before you go to save time)  They had a computer set up which made it super easy to complete quickly.  We registered, then waited for our start time.  Open jump times begin every 1/2 an hour.  We sat on the bleachers and waited for the instructions before exploring the facility. 



It was simply amazing!!!  A ton of space to bounce and play, both of my children had a grand time bouncing and running around on the trampolines.  My son enjoyed a few games of dodge ball with the other boys while Rosa enjoyed bouncing around and jumping into the foam pits.  There was plenty to do to fill our hour's time. 



If you get tired there are plenty of places to rest, and benches for spectators.  They also offer a cafe where you can refuel your energy.  A parents lounge is outfitted with a couple of couches and TVs so you can relax while the children get out their energy.  The space is brand new, so it is super clean and in great shape.  All of the employees were super helpful and cheery. 


With party rooms and plenty of space to play this would make an ideal birthday party location for school aged children and pre-teens (and maybe even teens and adults).  It is also a great spot to get out your energy on a rainy or cold day.  We had a ton of fun, and if it were closer to our home we would surely visit again. 



I will say, however, that the cost is a little pricy.  Currently the prices are $10/30 min, $14/60 min, $18/90 min or $20/120 min.

Sky Zone will be offering special bounce times for toddlers coming this fall and already offer Sky Mania (ages 10 to 15) every Friday from 9pm to 11pm and Sky Jam (ages 16+) every Saturday from 10 pm to midnight.

Visit Sky Zone of Canton's website or find them on Facebook. 

The Funky Frog, Children's Resale Boutique is relocating to Main Street

To contact us Click HERE

The Funky Frog, Children's Resale Boutique is relocating to Main Street


The Funky Frog has outgrown it's old location on East Third Street and has moved to 433 Main Street. "We are pleased that the community has found The Funky Frog to be a valuable asset. With the support of our long-time customers and many new customers we need to expand our store." states owner, Renee Perkins. "We believe now is the time to move to Main Street. We are excited to join the great variety of business on Main Street and be part of the NEW Downtown Rochester when the Main Street Makeover is complete." The store was closed Monday July 23 for moving and reopened Tuesday, July 24 at their new location.


The Funky Frog is a children's consignment store located in Downtown Rochester dedicated to helping consignors recycle their high-quality, gentle-used children's items, providing customers with affordable, fun and unique choices for their children's growing needs and supporting local business and non-profit groups.


The Funky Frog, Children's Resale Boutique offers a wide selection of gently-used clothing, shoes, toys and equipment in excellent condition, as well as brand new items with original store tags attached or locally hand-crafted items. Hours: Monday – Friday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, closed Sunday.


www.thefunkyfrogonline.comwww.facebook.com/funkyfrogresale

Carlyn's birth story

To contact us Click HERE
At 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 31st my water broke.  I didn't think much of it, I actually thought my bladder was leaking, but after emptying my bladder at 4 p.m. and standing up to more fluid, I was pretty sure my water had broken so I called my doctor.

The doctor instructed us to go to the emergency room, where they would get me registered and send me up to labor and delivery where we would proceed with the c-section which was originally scheduled for August 1st.  Chancellor was just minutes from getting home, and since I had to wait 8 hours from my last meal , we took our time getting to the hospital.

Upon arrival at Providence Southfield, I was promptly admitted and taken to a triage room in the labor and delivery where I waited and waited and waited.  We arrived at about 5 p.m. and since my last meal was 1 p.m. they wanted to wait until 9 p.m. for the surgery.  I was put on an external monitor (for baby's heartbeat and contractions) and IV, although this was my third child, it was the first time I had experienced anything similar to contractions.  The slow leaking of fluid was quite annoying, but there was nothing we could do.  Every time I got up to use the bathroom I left a trail of fluid.

On the phone in Triage!

9 p.m. came and went, and at about 9:15 p.m. someone came in and informed us that we would be bumped to 11 p.m. since there was an emergency c-section taking place.  My parents came in to visit while we were waiting, which was really nice to help pass the time.  The anesthesiologist, Dr. D.L., came in for a bit to talk to me about the procedure, followed by my Obstetrician, Dr. Prezzato.

A little after 11 p.m. I was moved to the operating room.  I was introduced to the staff in the room.  Everyone was fantastic.  Nancy was the anesthesiologist's assistant and was right there to answer all of my questions.  The anesthesiologist, Dr. DL, pressed on my back a few times to find a good place to place the spinal and just the pressure from his finger hurt a little and surprised me.  I completely lost my composure, since this was the one thing I had feared about the surgery.  My Dr. held my shoulder and calmed me down and told the anesthesiologist I would be okay.  I was shaking and I really didn't settle down until after I got the shot, which wasn't even that bad this time.  I started to become numb and the surgery started.  I had asked for a mirror so that I could see Carlyn being born, which was provided.  Watching the operation was the most interesting experience.

Right before Carlyn was born!

Carlyn was born at 11:45 p.m.  It was neat to see her being born.  She expelled the fluid from her lungs and began crying loudly straight away and didn't stop.  Carlyn was 8 pounds, 13 ounces and 21 inches long.  My husband, Chancellor, got to hold her after a few minutes and I cuddled, touched and kissed her as much as I could.  The anesthesiologist's assistant, Nancy, was fantastic.  After Carlyn was born she asked if she could take a few photographs for us.  Simply amazing!!!



I was stitched up and stapled with no issues and sent off to recovery with Jill, my nurse, who was very attentive, caring and had a great personality.  Carlyn and I got some time to bond while she nursed for the first time.  It was great to cuddle with her during the recovery.  Just 3 years ago when I had Rosa, that did not happen.



After recovery, I was moved to my room.  The rooms at Providence are private, which was very nice and they have a rooming in policy, so Carlyn spent all of her time in my room except for a short time when they did newborn testing and gave her an immunization.



My daytime nurse, Tonisha, was fantastic.  I was really worried that I would have to push to get up and moving and discharged, but she was very happy to help me get moving around, get my catheter and IV out and I happily took a shower on Wednesday.


That evening I was able to get plenty of sleep, however, despite the fact that I told my pm nurse I wanted to keep ahead of my pain by taking the meds on schedule, she neglected to wake me, and when I woke in the morning I was in a tremendous amount of pain and tears welled up in my eyes as I hobbled to the bathroom. It took a couple of hours for the meds to kick in, and by lunch I was feeling much better.  I was discharged after dinner.


After discharge I went back to get my staples out.  My blood pressure was running rather high, and I was still retaining a ton of water weight.  Dr. Prezzato told me to monitor my blood pressure twice daily and give him a call on Friday to talk about the results.  My blood pressure and weight slowly went down over the week, I'm thrilled to report that I am below my pre-pregnancy weight, but I need to keep an eye on my blood pressure.

Carlyn is doing really well.  She is gaining weight, feeding well and sleeps a ton.  We all love her so much  and she is getting a ton of hugs, kisses and cuddles. Thank you for taking the time to read our story.



If you are looking for an obstetrician, I highly recommend Dr. Joseph Prezzato.  My overall experience with him and the ladies in his office was fantastic.  Everyone was so helpful, kind, caring and cheery.

Looking for a hospital to deliver?  I was very happy with Providence Southfield.  You might also consider the Alternative Birthing Center within their facility that allows for a natural birth with minimum medical intervention and maximum family involvement.

MOMS Club® of Wixom Meet & Greet (9/27)

To contact us Click HERE
What: MOMS Club® of Wixom Meet & Greet
When: Thursday, September 27th
Time: 9:30am - 11:00am
Where: Wixom Library Playground
Cost: Free

The MOMS Club® of Wixom is hosting a Meet & Greet tomorrow morning (Thursday, 9/27).  Stop by the Wixom Library playground (in the back of the library) to see what the MOMS Club of Wixom has to offer.  There will be a craft for the kids, coffee, donuts, bagels and a chance to meet new friends!

Milford Library Storytimes (Fall 2012)

To contact us Click HERE
What: Milford Library StorytimesWhen: various, see below
Time: various, see below
Where: Milford Public Library
Cost: Free

• Baby Fun For pre-walkers birth to 12 months

When: Mondays
Time: 10:30-11:00am
There are three 3-week sessions this fall, each requiring registration.
Session I : September 10, 17, 24 Registration begins August 27th
Session II: October 8, 15, 22 Registration begins September 24th
Session III: November 5, 12, 26 Registration begins October 22nd

• Tiny Tots For walkers 13 to 23 months

When: Tuesdays
Time:10-10:30am
There are three 3-week sessions this fall, each requiring registration.
Session I : September 11, 18, 25 Registration begins August 28th
Session II: October 9, 16, 23 Registration begins September 25th
Session III: November 6, 13, 27 Registration begins October 23rd

• Terrific Two’s For ages 24-36 months

When: Wednesdays
Time: 10-10:30am
There are three 3-week sessions this fall, each requiring registration.
Session I : September 12, 19, 26 Registration begins August 29th
Session II: October 10, 17, 24 Registration begins September 26th
Session III: November 7, 14, 28 Registration begins October 24th

• Preschool Storytime For ages 3-5

When: Tuesdays
Time: 11-11:30am
There are three 3-week sessions this fall, each requiring registration.
Session I : September 11, 18, 25 Registration begins August 28th
Session II: October 9, 16, 23 Registration begins September 25th
Session III: November 6, 13, 27 Registration begins October 23rd

• Family Storytime For ages 2 ½ - 5

When: Thursdays
Time: 10-10:30am
There are three 3-week sessions this fall, each requiring registration.
Session I : September 13, 20, 27 Registration begins August 30th
Session II: October 11, 18, 25 Registration begins September 27th
Session III: November 8, 15, 29 Registration begins October 25th

• Evening Storytime For ages 2 - 5: Join us for seasonal stories and activities. Wear your pajamas and enjoy a snack after the storytime.

Theme: Moose on the Loose
When: Thursday, September 27th
Time: 7:00 – 7:45pm
Registration begins September 13th

Theme: Silly Scary Stories – come in pajamas or your Halloween costume if you’d like!
When: Wednesday, October 24th
Time: 7:00 - 7:45pm
Registration begins October 10th

Theme: To be announced
When: Thursday, November 29th
Time: 7:00 – 7:45pm
Registration begins November 15th

 * Program registration is required for all programs, unless otherwise indicated. Due to the popularity of programs, families need to register in advance online, by phone (248.684.0845) or in person. The first week of registration is reserved for Milford residents. Non-residents may inquire on available space after the first week of registration. Programs may be cancelled if fewer than 5 kids register for the program.

Halloween Happenings (October 2012)

To contact us Click HERE
Updated: 9/27/12 at 8:01am
Halloween is in the air and it's time to start enjoying the great fall weather and going to some fun Halloween events around town.  I have put together a list of all the Halloween Happenings around the area for the month of October and before, so your kiddies can show off their costumes as much as possible this month!

THIS WEEK (9/24-10/30)

• Farmington Harvest Moon Celebration (Thur, 9/27 - Sat, 9/29) 
• Milford Annual Fall Picnic & Movie in the Park (Saturday, 9/29) 
• South Lyon Pumpkinfest (Sat, 9/29 & Sun, 9/30)

OCTOBER WEEK ONE (10/1-10/7)

• Kensington Metropark Fall Festival (Sat, 10/6 & Sun, 10/7)
• Kensington Metropark Pick Your Pumpkin Hayrides (Sat, 10/6 - Sun, 10/7)

OCTOBER WEEK TWO (10/8-10/14)

• Waterford Family Fun Halloween Event  (Fri, 10/12 & Sat, 10/13)
• Zoo Boo at the Detroit Zoo (Fri, 10/12 - Sun, 10/14) 
• Lowes Build & Grow Clinic: Ghoul Bus (Saturday, 10/13)
• City of Wixom's Fall & Fest Panther Hunt (Saturday, 10/13)
• Kensington Metropark Pick Your Pumpkin Hayrides (Sat, 10/13 & Sun, 10/14)

OCTOBER WEEK THREE (10/15-10/21)

• City of Wixom's 11th Annual Monster Mash (Friday, 10/19) 
• Zoo Boo at the Detroit Zoo (Fri, 10/19 - Sun, 10/21) 
• Kensington Metropark Pick Your Pumpkin Hayrides (Sat, 10/20 & Sun, 10/21)

OCTOBER WEEK FOUR(10/22-10/31)

• Walled Lake Library Halloween Costume Party (Tuesday, 10/23)
• Milford Library Silly Scary Stories (Wednesday, 10/24)
•  Zoo Boo at the Detroit Zoo (Fri, 10/26 - Sun, 10/28)
• Novi Public Library Halloween Happening 2 (Saturday, 10/27)
• Wixom Library Annual Halloween Party (Saturday, 10/27)
• Kensington Metropark Pick Your Pumpkin Hayrides (Sat, 10/27 & Sun, 10/28)

OCTOBER WEEK FIVE (10/29-10/31)

• Milford Library Halloween Puppet Show and Costume Parade (Tuesday, 10/30)
• Commerce Township Library Halloween Palooza (Tuesday, 10/30)
• Walled Lake Library Halloween Trick-or-Treat (Wednesday, 10/31)

Be sure to check back often, as I will be updating the list as more information on events becomes available.  If I have missed an event, please send me an email at raisingwixom@gmail.com.  Thank you!

Animal Neurology & MRI Center Open House (10/6)

To contact us Click HERE
What: Animal Neurology & MRI Center Open House
When: Saturday, October 6th
Time: 11:00am-4:00pm
Where: Animal Neurology & MRI Center (1120 Welch Rd., Commerce, MI 48390)
Cost: Free
Who: Pet Owners!

The Animal Neurology & MRI Center is celebrating 10 years of service with an Open House on Saturday, October 6th!  Stop over for a tour of the beautiful facility, to meet the doctors and staff, enjoy refreshments, pet trick demonstrations, giveaways, costume contest, and a petting zoo!   You can also bring in your pet for a bath at their CHANCE Pet Emergency Fund Charity dog wash.  Don't forget to bring your pet!

The Schedule of Events:

• 11:00-3:00pm - Petting Zoo
• 11:30am - Trick Tips
• 1:00pm - Flyball Demo
• 2:00pm - Pet Safety
• 3:00pm - Police Dog Demo
• 3:30pm - Costume Contest
• 11:00am-4:00pm - CHANCE Fund Charity Dog Wash

For more information on the center, visit animalneurology.com or animalERcenter.com or call 248-960-7200 for their 24/7 hotline.

Milford Library Special Programs (Fall-Winter 2012)

To contact us Click HERE
What: Milford Library Special Programs (Fall-Winter 2012)
When: various, see below
Time: various, see below
Where: Milford Public Library
Cost: Free

• Caterpillar Preschool Fun - We’ll read The Very Hungry Caterpillar together and then do some activities and make some crafts related to the story! A fun caterpillar snack will be served. 

When: Wednesday, October 3rd
Time: 2:00 - 2:45pm
Who: For kids 3-5 with an adult
Registration begins September 19th*

• Halloween Puppet Show and Costume Parade - Come see a Halloween puppet show: “A Halloween Hullabaloo at High Jinks Hall.”  There will also be a costume parade in the library starting around 11:15am.  Please note: While kids under 3 are welcome to attend, the puppet show and the Halloween giveaways are intended for kids 3 and up.

When: Tuesday, October 30th
Time: 10:30 - 11:30am
Who: For kids 5 ½ and younger with an adult.
Registration begins October 16th*

• Thanksgiving Crafts - Decorate your house and dinner table with all kinds of festive Thanksgiving and fall crafts.  Drop in anytime between 10:30 and noon.  Although this is a drop-in program, we do ask that you register if you plan on attending.
  
  When: Saturday, November 17th
  Time: 10:30-Noon
  Who: For kids 5 - 12 (adults must attend with children who may need assistance with the crafts)
  Registration begins November 3rd*

• Thanks for Thanksgiving!  Stories, songs, rhymes, crafts, and games about Thanksgiving just for preschoolers.

When: Monday, November 19th
Time: 2:00 – 2:45pm
Who:  For kids 3-5 with an adult
Registration begins November 5th*

• Gingerbread Houses - Build and decorate your own Gingerbread House with graham crackers, frosting, and lots of candy. 

When: Saturday, December 15th
Time: 11:00am - Noon
Who: For kids 5 - 12 (adults must attend with children who may need assistance)
Registration begins December 1st*

 * Program registration is required for all programs, unless otherwise indicated. Due to the popularity of programs, families need to register in advance online, by phone (248.684.0845) or in person. The first week of registration is reserved for Milford residents. Non-residents may inquire on available space after the first week of registration. Programs may be cancelled if fewer than 5 kids register for the program.

Mary Poppins is coming to the Fisher Theatre Oct. 23 - 28, 2012

To contact us Click HERE

MARY POPPINS is bringing its own brand of Broadway magic to theaters across the country, which has Variety raving, “This is the rare touring production that over-delivers on every level!!” Featuring an irresistible story and unforgettable songs from one of the most popular Disney films of all time, plus brand-new breathtaking dance numbers and spectacular stage-craft, MARY POPPINS is everything you could ever want in a hit Broadway show! So get swept up in the fun of this high-flying musical the New York Post gives 4 out of 4 stars and calls “a certifiable super hit!”

Get your tickets today!!!!!




October 23, 2012 - October 28, 2012Tuesday - Saturday Evenings at 7:30pm
Sunday Evening at 6:30pm
Saturday Matinee at 2:00pm
Sunday Matinee at 1:00pm

Children 5 and under will not be admitted to this event.Fisher Theatre2 hours, 40 minutesVisit the official website

Win tickets to this show from Metro Detroit Mommy: 

Use the form below to sign up for our newsletter:

Enter your email address:

Delivered by FeedBurner

Use the Rafflecopter form to enter:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Maternity 2 Motherhood Family Expo

To contact us Click HERE


The 2012 Maternity 2 Motherhood Family Expo will have fun activities and information for the whole family!  There will be prizes, giveaways and the opportunity to interact with all of our family friendly exhibitors. Bring the whole family!  Buy your tickets in advance for a discount!

Suburban Collection Showplace
46100 Grand River
Novi, MI 48374   


Win tickets to this event from Metro Detroit Mommy by entering below:
Step one: Sign up for our newsletter below:

Enter your email address: Delivered by FeedBurner

Step two: complete the rafflecopter form below:


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Carlyn's birth story

To contact us Click HERE
At 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 31st my water broke.  I didn't think much of it, I actually thought my bladder was leaking, but after emptying my bladder at 4 p.m. and standing up to more fluid, I was pretty sure my water had broken so I called my doctor.

The doctor instructed us to go to the emergency room, where they would get me registered and send me up to labor and delivery where we would proceed with the c-section which was originally scheduled for August 1st.  Chancellor was just minutes from getting home, and since I had to wait 8 hours from my last meal , we took our time getting to the hospital.

Upon arrival at Providence Southfield, I was promptly admitted and taken to a triage room in the labor and delivery where I waited and waited and waited.  We arrived at about 5 p.m. and since my last meal was 1 p.m. they wanted to wait until 9 p.m. for the surgery.  I was put on an external monitor (for baby's heartbeat and contractions) and IV, although this was my third child, it was the first time I had experienced anything similar to contractions.  The slow leaking of fluid was quite annoying, but there was nothing we could do.  Every time I got up to use the bathroom I left a trail of fluid.

On the phone in Triage!

9 p.m. came and went, and at about 9:15 p.m. someone came in and informed us that we would be bumped to 11 p.m. since there was an emergency c-section taking place.  My parents came in to visit while we were waiting, which was really nice to help pass the time.  The anesthesiologist, Dr. D.L., came in for a bit to talk to me about the procedure, followed by my Obstetrician, Dr. Prezzato.

A little after 11 p.m. I was moved to the operating room.  I was introduced to the staff in the room.  Everyone was fantastic.  Nancy was the anesthesiologist's assistant and was right there to answer all of my questions.  The anesthesiologist, Dr. DL, pressed on my back a few times to find a good place to place the spinal and just the pressure from his finger hurt a little and surprised me.  I completely lost my composure, since this was the one thing I had feared about the surgery.  My Dr. held my shoulder and calmed me down and told the anesthesiologist I would be okay.  I was shaking and I really didn't settle down until after I got the shot, which wasn't even that bad this time.  I started to become numb and the surgery started.  I had asked for a mirror so that I could see Carlyn being born, which was provided.  Watching the operation was the most interesting experience.

Right before Carlyn was born!

Carlyn was born at 11:45 p.m.  It was neat to see her being born.  She expelled the fluid from her lungs and began crying loudly straight away and didn't stop.  Carlyn was 8 pounds, 13 ounces and 21 inches long.  My husband, Chancellor, got to hold her after a few minutes and I cuddled, touched and kissed her as much as I could.  The anesthesiologist's assistant, Nancy, was fantastic.  After Carlyn was born she asked if she could take a few photographs for us.  Simply amazing!!!



I was stitched up and stapled with no issues and sent off to recovery with Jill, my nurse, who was very attentive, caring and had a great personality.  Carlyn and I got some time to bond while she nursed for the first time.  It was great to cuddle with her during the recovery.  Just 3 years ago when I had Rosa, that did not happen.



After recovery, I was moved to my room.  The rooms at Providence are private, which was very nice and they have a rooming in policy, so Carlyn spent all of her time in my room except for a short time when they did newborn testing and gave her an immunization.



My daytime nurse, Tonisha, was fantastic.  I was really worried that I would have to push to get up and moving and discharged, but she was very happy to help me get moving around, get my catheter and IV out and I happily took a shower on Wednesday.


That evening I was able to get plenty of sleep, however, despite the fact that I told my pm nurse I wanted to keep ahead of my pain by taking the meds on schedule, she neglected to wake me, and when I woke in the morning I was in a tremendous amount of pain and tears welled up in my eyes as I hobbled to the bathroom. It took a couple of hours for the meds to kick in, and by lunch I was feeling much better.  I was discharged after dinner.


After discharge I went back to get my staples out.  My blood pressure was running rather high, and I was still retaining a ton of water weight.  Dr. Prezzato told me to monitor my blood pressure twice daily and give him a call on Friday to talk about the results.  My blood pressure and weight slowly went down over the week, I'm thrilled to report that I am below my pre-pregnancy weight, but I need to keep an eye on my blood pressure.

Carlyn is doing really well.  She is gaining weight, feeding well and sleeps a ton.  We all love her so much  and she is getting a ton of hugs, kisses and cuddles. Thank you for taking the time to read our story.



If you are looking for an obstetrician, I highly recommend Dr. Joseph Prezzato.  My overall experience with him and the ladies in his office was fantastic.  Everyone was so helpful, kind, caring and cheery.

Looking for a hospital to deliver?  I was very happy with Providence Southfield.  You might also consider the Alternative Birthing Center within their facility that allows for a natural birth with minimum medical intervention and maximum family involvement.

Win Cloth Wipes from by: Angela

To contact us Click HERE
Having two girls in the same season has made buying new things for the new baby pretty much obsolete, except for a few items that got damaged or lost in our move.  But, there are a few things I didn't buy for Rosaleigh that I simply must have for Carlyn.  One of those items is a nursing cover.  Although I nursed Rosa for over 18 months, I struggled through nursing in public quite often with a blanket and sometimes I would just find a private place to nurse her.  But, I plan on being out and about much more often with the girls so a nursing cover is a necessity.  I chose to try one from by: Angela.

She has a ton of fabrics to choose from and I absolutely love the product.  The nursing cover features a super big neck loop so you can peek in on your little one easily, an adjustable neck strap that adjusts to fit your size, and a terry cloth pocket that can store your nursing pads and doubles as a great burp cloth.


We also got some super cute cloth wipes. The wipes are a generous 9" x 10" size (measurement approximate and will shrink ) made with two layers of 100% soft cotton flannel. Two layers are serged together with rounded corners.



The wipes work well and I love the fabric selections, but I don't really care for the cotton flannel.  The first few times I used them, they took a minute for the fabric to absorb water compared to the terry and microfiber wipes I already own.  These wipes can be used as wash and cleaning cloths as well.  

You can win a set of four cloth wipes to try out on your own from Metro Detroit Mommy and by:Angela, just enter to win below. 


Step one: Sign up for our newsletter below:

Enter your email address: Delivered by FeedBurner

Step two: complete the rafflecopter form below: 



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Music with Ms. Carissa at Boogie Babies

To contact us Click HERE
We were so lucky to be able to make the concert at Boogie Babies yesterday.  Lucky in two ways, we actually made it (relatively on time) despite the toddler tantrum before we left and the lazy last minute mommy who decided to wait to get dressed, showered and get the baby ready, and lucky because the concert by Ms. Carissa was so much fun!!!!



We are no strangers to Boogie Babies, it is a great indoor play space, especially on days when the weather is not conducive to outdoor play.  You can check out our review on our blog here: Boogie Babies Review.

So, we arrived just after the music had started.  It took a few minutes for Rosa to settle in and warm up to the idea of dancing and getting involved.  She enjoyed all of the songs that Ms. Carissa sang like "The Wheels on the Bus", "Twinkle Twinkle" "The Sleep Song" and so much more.  Ms. Carissa added some quirky twists to the songs to get the children more involved and active, like singing "The Dinos on the bus go Stomp Stomp Stomp".  She also asked the children for input which sparked all kids of creative imaginative play.  It was so fun to watch Rosa sing, clap, jump, dance, pretend and have fun!!!


Ms. Carissa will be performing every Thursday at Boogie Babies.  You can enjoy this weekly concert for $10/child, which includes a play pass for the day.  Space is limited so reservations are highly recommended as these shows often fill up.  You can make your reservation by calling Tony at Boogie Babies: (248) 852-6288.

Mention Metro Detroit Mommy when you call to reserve your spot for Thursday, October 4th and receive $1 off your admission.  

• ~ offer valid for the October 4th show ONLY
• ~ may not be combined with any other offer
• ~ valid only when reservation is made before close of business on Wednesday, October 3rd.

Kindermusik Event at Boogie Babies

To contact us Click HERE
Kindermusik International is the world's leading provider of music and movement programs for young children, enjoyed by over 1 million families in more than 60 countries.


Kindermusik gives you the opportunity to bond with your child while you play, sing and dance, all while learning.  The program is designed to stimulate brain growth, build gross and fine motor skills, enhance social-emotional development and much more.  And the best part is that it is super fun for both children and adults.

I had the honor of attending a mini session of Kindermusik, taught by Tracy Chesher of Kindermusik of Clinton Township and Macomb Township at Boogie Babies in Rochester.

Upon arrival there were all kinds of instruments arranged on a colorful parachute.  Mrs. Tracy invited Rosa to play with the instruments until the other children arrived.


The transportation themed class was filled with a ton of music, movement, games, even a story.  Mrs. Tracy alternated between sitting activities and movement and they were switching activities every couple of minutes so it held the children's attention and everyone in the class was having a great time.


We sang "I've Been Working on the Railroad", played with a parachute,


 marched around the room, shook some shaker eggs,


Mrs. Tracy read us a story,


danced with scarves, and so much more.  Rosa's favorite part by far was playing with the bubbles at the end of the session.


I highly recommend Tracy Chesher if you are looking for a Kindermusik teacher.  She has a great energy, lovely voice, a great knowledge of music and a talent for working with small children.

You can find out more about her programs by visiting her on facebook:  Kindermusik of Clinton Township and Macomb Township,  if you aren't in her area you can find a Kindermusik class near you on the Kindermusik website.