a calendar of local events COLORADO SPRINGS Kids Magazine - December … · FREE! a calendar of local events COLORADO SPRINGS DECEMBER volume 13, issue 5 Monthly “ToMonthly “To-

FREE!

a calendar of local events

COLORADO SPRINGS

DECEMBER

volume 13, issue 5volume 13, issue 5volume 13, issue 5volume 13, issue 5

Monthly “ToMonthly “ToMonthly “ToMonthly “To----Do”Do”Do”Do” Calendar, plus:Calendar, plus:Calendar, plus:Calendar, plus: • A Look at BooksA Look at BooksA Look at BooksA Look at Books • Birthday Party PickBirthday Party PickBirthday Party PickBirthday Party Pick

Santa Comes to Santa Comes to Santa Comes to Santa Comes to The Citadel MallThe Citadel MallThe Citadel MallThe Citadel Mall • Have Your Kid’s Have Your Kid’s Have Your Kid’s Have Your Kid’s Picture TakenPicture TakenPicture TakenPicture Taken

ToddlerToddlerToddlerToddler----Friendly Friendly Friendly Friendly Christmas TreesChristmas TreesChristmas TreesChristmas Trees • Five TipsFive TipsFive TipsFive Tips

Christmas Toys Christmas Toys Christmas Toys Christmas Toys for Kidsfor Kidsfor Kidsfor Kids • Top 10 for 2013Top 10 for 2013Top 10 for 2013Top 10 for 2013

Cool TipsCool TipsCool TipsCool Tips • Safe Holiday Safe Holiday Safe Holiday Safe Holiday LightingLightingLightingLighting

SPRINGS

DECEMBER 2013

...places to go, things to do and more!

december

Welcome to Colorado Springs KIDS Magazine!

T he countdown is on! Thanksgiving is behind us, and Christmas and the New Year loom ahead. It’s hard to believe we’ve turned to that last page on the calendar already and there are only, well, hopefully, a few more

shopping days until Christmas! If you’ll be shopping for gifts for your kids this season, be sure to check out Sherrie Antes article on page 25. She shares with us her annual list of Top 10 Toys. There’s sure to be one on the list perfect for your child. Christmas & kids also mean the tradition of photos with Santa. If you want to have your kid’s picture taken with Santa, he will be at the Citadel Mall all season this year. For that & other great holiday events, be sure to consult our Monthly Calendar of Events beginning on page 5. I hope your family has a safe and wonderful holiday season! Scott Winkleman Publisher/Editor

Regular Features Contests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 3 Cool Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Monthly Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 5 Health Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 15 Craft Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 16 Sports Sign-Ups . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 19 Ongoing Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 21 Head to the Mountains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 23 Movie Releases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 24 Cooking with Your Kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 26 Solo Parenting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 27 Bargain Central . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 28 Birthday Party Pick of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 29 A Look At Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 31 Family Website. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 32 Focus on Your Child . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 33

Specials My719Moms Special Feature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 13 5 Tips for Trimming a Toddler Friendly Christmas Tree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 17 Top 4 Christmas Tree Decorating Tips for Creating a Masterpiece . . . . . . . . . page 18 Toy Station’s Top 10 Picks for 2013. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 25

Colorado Springs KIDS

www.coloradospringskids.com Colorado Springs KIDS Magazine - December 2013 2

On The Cover: ...Pictures with Santa are a Christmas tradition! Check out

page 12 for information on getting your kids’ picture taken with Santa at the Citadel Mall and many other great holiday events in Monthly Calendar of Events beginning on page 5. (Photo by Rachel Bolenbaugh, Aetherial Photography)

PO Box 386 Monument, CO 80132

Credits

Publisher/Editor Scott Winkleman (719) 494-0728 www.coloradospringskids.com

Contributing Writers Sherrie Antes, Melanie Denton, OD, Scoti Springfield Domeij, Krista Fabregas, Barbara Huff, Mary L. James, Debbie Neal, Janay Oliver, Dr. Greg Smalley

Contributing Photographers Rachel Bolenbaugh, Aetherial Photography

Advertising (719) 494-0728

Proofreading Missy Hernandez

CSKIDS Info...

Subscriptions: $20 per year (includes sales tax). Send check or money order to: PO BOX 386, Monument, CO 80132 Visit our website at www.coloradospringskids.com. E-mail us at: [email protected]. Editorial submissions welcome. The deadline is the 10th of the month prior to issue month. Email event information to: [email protected]. Dates and times of events listed can cancel/change without notice. Please call in advance to confirm. Colorado Springs KIDS is a free, monthly publication (subscriptions are available). Letters to the editor, event information and suggestions are welcome; however, we do reserve the right to review, edit, and reject any mate-rial submitted. Colorado Springs KIDS does not en-dorse the services, events, editorial, and advertisement of products in the magazine. All materials submitted become the property of Colorado Springs KIDS and will not be returned. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. Colorado Springs KIDS assumes no liability for misprints, subject matter or changes. It is up to each individual to call prior to an event and inquire about any information given in the publication. All rights re-served. Any reproduction, in whole or part, without written permission is prohibited. © 2013.


Enter for a Chance to Win a $25 Gift Card to Toy Station at School Crossing!

To enter for a chance to win, simply fill out the entry form below and mail it to: Colorado Springs KIDS, PO Box 386, Monument, CO 80132. All entries must be received by December 31, 2013. One winner will be selected by random draw-ing on January 1, 2014. One entry per person. Relatives and associates of this publication and Toy Station at School Cross-ing are ineligible to participate.

Toy Station at School Crossing Gift Card Entry Form

Name Address City State Zip Phone # Email

Congratulations to Debra, our October contest winner of a Family Four Pack of Tickets to Cinemark Theaters!

Contests

Please cut on the dotted line.


Cool Tips

~ Holiday Lighting Safety Tips

• Carefully inspect holiday light strings each year and discard any with frayed cords, cracked lamp holders, or loose connections.

• When replacing bulbs, unplug the light string and be sure to match voltage and wattage to the original bulb.

• Always turn off holiday lights when you leave the house unattended or when going to bed.

• When hanging outdoor lights, keep electrical connec-tors off the ground and away from metal rain gutters. Use insulated tape or plastic clips instead of metal nails or tacks to hold them in place.

• Never connect more than one extension cord together; instead use a single cord that is long enough to reach the outlet without stretching, but not so long that it can be easily tangled.

• Use an outdoor timer certified by CSA International to switch lights on and off.

December Calendar


1 Sunday The Nutcracker Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece is the holiday tradition. Bring the whole family to see Clara, the Sugarplum Fairy, the Mouse King, and more than 150 dancers! The Colorado Springs Children’s Chorale will perform as well as ballet dancers from the Pikes Peak region. Location: Pikes Peak Center Time: 2:00 pm Information: (719) 520-7469; www.pikespeakcenter.com

Grinch Day Join us as we celebrate Grinch Day with readings throughout the day and a special viewing of the classic tale at 2:00 pm in our Community Room. Location: Barnes & Noble – Citadel Time: All day Information: (719) 573-6947

Family Holiday Extravaganza Featuring Santa Claus and his elves, face painting, storyteller, gingerbread house decorating, and more! There will be light hors d'oeuvres and non-alcoholic beverages served. This event is sure to please the whole family and create lasting memo-ries of a lifetime. Donations to Toys for Tots are encouraged and will be collected at the Extrava-ganza as well as all month long. Tickets are $15 for adults & $10 for kids 10 & under, sold at the door. Location: The Mining Exchange, a Wyndham Grand Hotel, 8 S Nevada Ave. Time: 1:00 - 4:00 pm Information: (719) 323-2000; [email protected]

2 Monday Stories and Crafts Drop in to hear special stories and make something to take home. Location: Ute Pass Branch Library Time: 3:00 - 5:00 pm Information: (719) 634-1698; www.ppld.org

3 Tuesday Book Signing Please join us as we welcome author Reid Lance Rosenthal. Mr. Rosenthal will be sign-ing copies of his books from the Threads West

series. Please come meet our author and check out his extraordinary books today. Location: Barnes & Noble – Citadel Time: 2:00 pm Information: (719) 573-6947

8th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration Bring the entire family to this event. Festivi-ties include hayrides, kids’ crafts, local food vendors, caroling, Santa, holiday shopping, photo booth, cookies, and hot drinks. Donate non-perishable food items and gently used coats to for distribution to local families in need. It’s free. Location: Widefield Community Center, 705 Aspen Dr. Time: 5:30 - 7:30 pm Information: (719) 391-3515; http://cc.wsd3.org

5 Thursday Air Force Academy Basketball vs. South Dakota Location: Cadet Field House Time: 7:00 pm Information: (719) 472-1895, www.goairforcefalcons.com

5th or 6th F.A.W.N: First Adventures with Nature: Antlered Animals Bring your 18-36 month old to the Zoo with their favorite adult. It is never too early to intro-duce your toddler to the wonders of the natural world around them. During each class, we will learn about a variety of topics through age ap-propriate stories, special activities, and fun ani-mal encounters. In this class, we will visit our moose in Rocky Mountain Wild and learn how he survives these cold winter months at Chey-enne Mountain Zoo. Registration is required. Location: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Time: 8:45 – 9:30 am Information: (719) 633-9925x177; cmzoo.org

6 Friday American Girls Club Please join us for this month’s American Girls Club as we celebrate the season with our an-nual Pajama Party. Come in your favorite pj’s and join us for a night of fun. Girls’ ages 6-12 are invited to attend. Location: Barnes & Noble – Citadel Time: 6:30 pm Information: (719) 573-6947

Holiday Storytime Please join us for our annual reading of The

Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg. Wear your favorite pj’s and go on a special journey to the North Pole and learn what it means to believe in something special. Join us for a story, snack, and craft. Location: Barnes & Noble – Citadel Time: 7:00 pm Information: (719) 573-6947

First Friday Old Colorado City: Holiday Gala Join us for the last ArtWalk featuring art galler-ies and open artist studios. Colorado Springs’ largest concentration of galleries is located within three city blocks along West Colorado Avenue, between 23rd and 27th Streets. Location: Old Colorado City Time: 5:00 – 8:00 pm Information: (719) 520-9494; www.bestartontheavenue.com

Colorado Native Live at Studio Bee – Holiday Show Each month we feature two local Colorado bands to play for free at Studio Bee. This month we are excited to announce a special holiday performance by the students of the Colorado Springs Conservatory. Location: Pikes Peak Center Time: 6:30 pm Information: (719) 520-7469; www.pikespeakcenter.com

Little London Winds Holiday Concert Temple Shalom welcomes Little London Winds as they present their Holiday Concert in our annual December tradition. The con-cert begins following Kabbalat Shabbat Ser-vices at 6:30 pm. This event is open to the community of music lovers--join us for this live concert. Donations to the Little London Winds band are appreciated. Location: Temple Shalom, 1523 E. Monument St. Time: 6:30 pm – 2:30 am Information: (719) 634-5311; www.templeshalom.com

Santa Express at Toy Station Visit Santa, enjoy holiday crafts and games, and there’ll be special songs with Santa! Location: Toy Station at School Crossing, 5540 Library Lane Time: 6:30 -8:30 pm Information: (719) 593-7112; etoystation.com

Cookies with Santa Cow Location: Chick-fil-A, 575 Garden of the Gods Rd Time: 6:00 -8:00 pm Information: (719) 531-7320; www.cfarestaurant.com/gardenofthegods

The Nutcracker

2nd Annual Cheyenne Mountain Charter Academy/Vanguard Holiday Bazaar You are invited to our Holiday Bazaar. Come finish your holiday shopping early. You'll enjoy shopping with over 30 vendors! There will be a variety of handcrafted and name brand items to choose from. You’re sure to find a unique gift for everyone on your list. Mark your calendar now! All proceeds from vendor fees will benefit our PTO. Location: The Vanguard School, Bldg C, 1605 South Corona Avenue Time: 1:00 - 5:30 pm Information: (719) 200-7337; (719) 471-1999x1; [email protected]

Bear Creek by Candlelight All ages are invited to celebrate the season with festive music, live animals, family activi-ties, a candlelit trail walk along Bear Creek with Santa Claus, and chili provided by Texas Roadhouse. Participants will be greeted by a walkway lit with luminaries and may hike a candlelit trail along Bear Creek. Inside, listen to the music, savor a warm bowl of chili, hot chocolate and cookies, and create memories for the season. A donation of $4 per person/ $12 per family is requested at the door. Location: Bear Creek Nature Center Time: 5:00 – 8:00 pm Information: (719) 520-6387; www.elpasocountyparks.com

Ute Pass Novel Characters Teen and Tween Book Clubs Check out our book club for fourth graders and up. Groups are separated according to age. Snacks provided. It meets the first Friday of the month. Contact Tiffany Paisley for more information at the number or email below. Location: Ute Pass Branch Library Time: 6:00 - 4:00 pm Information: (719) 634-1698; [email protected]; www.ppld.org

6th & 7th Colorado College Hockey vs. University of Nebraska Omaha Location: World Arena Time: 12/6 - 7:30 pm; 12/7 - 7:00 pm Information: (719) 389-6324; cctigers.com

6th & 7th Storytime Please join us as we read Big Snow by Jona-thon Bean. David dreams of so much snow that his dreams seem to come true. Join us for a story, snack, and craft. Location: Barnes & Noble – Citadel Time: 10:30 am Information: (719) 573-6947

6th – 7th Winter Wildland WildNight at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Thinking of a fun holiday trip for the family this winter? Come on out to the zoo as we celebrate the holidays with our Winter Won-derland WildNight! Spend the night at the zoo touring the animals with lights a glow! Enjoy a delicious hot dog and salad dinner and stay warm with a special treat of s'mores. It may be cold outside, but around the zoo, we will be visiting the wonders of winter at night! Kids must be 5 years or older to participate. The cost is $35.35 for members, $45.25 for non-members. Registration is required. Location: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 am Information: (719) 633-9925x127; [email protected]; www.cmzoo.org

6th - 8th Electric Safari Over one million glittering lights and 40 ani-mated light sculptures illuminate the Zoo and create dazzling memories for your family. Warming fires throughout the Zoo offer a reprieve from the chill, as do select indoor animal exhibits that remain open during the event. Top off this astounding display by gazing out at the city’s lights and watch all of Colorado Springs sparkle! Last admission is sold at 7:30 pm. Location: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Time: 5:30 – 8:30 pm Information: (719) 633-9925; www.cmzoo.org

7 Saturday Milk and Cookies with Santa You don’t have to wait up all night on Christ-mas Eve to have milk and cookies with Santa this year! Dine with the jolly man in red at the Imagination Celebration Space in The Citadel and listen to a storyteller who weaves tales of winter wonder together. Sing along to holiday tunes as children and elves alike create glitter-filled holiday inspired art to bring home for the Christmas tree. Location: Imagination Space at the Citadel Mall Time: 9:00 - 10:00 am Information: (719) 591-5516; www.facebook.com/CitadelMall

Holiday “Toons” Colorado Springs Youth Symphony Come see the Colorado Springs Youth Sym-phony Association featuring classic cartoon music and holiday favorites. Location: Pikes Peak Center Time: 7:30 pm Information: (719) 520-7469; www.pikespeakcenter.com

Holiday Craft Fair & Toy Drive The Learning Experience is hosting this toy drive to benefit the Children's Organ Trans-plant Association (COTA) in honor of local toddler Alexander. Come be part of this com-munity “shopportunity”! Local vendors will show off their goodies to help with your holi-day shopping. All proceeds benefit a local toddler who recently had a liver transplant. Location: The Learning Experience, 2110 Vickers Dr Time: 10:00 am-3:00 pm

Information: (719) 352-1590; www.cotaforalexanderb.com

Children's Holiday Magic Join us for our annual Holiday celebration. Touch a piece of the past at our Hands on His-tory Carts. Enjoy performances, storytimes, and sing-a-longs. Try your hand at weaving and other crafts. Write and send a letter to Santa and much more! It’s family-friendly and free! Plus, join us at 6:00pm during the Festival of Lights for free hot chocolate and cookies! Location: Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, 215 S. Tejon St. Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Information: (719) 385-5990; www.cspm.org

Affordable Holiday Art and Gifts Show Join selected studio artists from Cottonwood Center for the Arts for a day of non-traditional shopping and fun. Visit each of the participat-ing studios for a chance to win a gift certifi-cate to use in any participating studio. Enjoy "Make and Takes" for you and the kids. There are 20+ open studios, giveaways and prizes, 2D and 3D - including pottery, jewelry, tex-tiles, accessories, and more! Location: Cottonwood Center for the Arts, 427 E. Colorado Ave. Time: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Information: (719) 520-1899; [email protected]

Breakfast with Santa Cow Location: Chick-fil-A N. Carefree location, 3710 Bloomington St Time: 8:00 -10:00 am Information: (719) 596-3577; www.chick-fil-a.com/northcarefree


Milk and Cookies with Santa

December Calendar-continued from page 6


Lego Club Duplos for the little ones and thousands of Legos for the rest of us! Bring your creativity and have some fun! Location: Briargate Library Time: 10:00 am – Noon Information: (719) 260-6882; www.ppld.org

Mrs. Claus Tells Stories Join storyteller Cathy Kelsay as she brings Mrs. Claus to life to tell your favorite holiday stories, sing holiday songs, and share puppets to celebrate the season. Some locations may include other activities in addition to Mrs. Claus so please check with your local com-munity library for more holiday fun. Location: Briargate Library Time: 1:00 pm Information: (719) 260-6882; www.ppld.org

Cookie Decorating & Holiday Fun Enjoy decorating cookies, listening to a favor-ite story, or creating crafts or music! Location: East Library Time: 2:00 pm Information: (719) 531-6333; www.ppld.org

Mrs. Claus Tells Stories Join storyteller Cathy Kelsay as she brings Mrs. Claus to life to tell your favorite holiday stories, sing holiday songs, and share puppets to celebrate the season. Some locations may include other activities in addition to Mrs. Claus so please check with your local com-munity library for more holiday fun. Location: Ute Pass Community Library Time: 10:30 am Information: (719) 634-1698; www.ppld.org

8 Sunday Make a Gift at Toy Station Children ages 4+ can make a handmade gift for $5.00. Call to reserve your spot. Location: Toy Station at School Crossing, 5540 Library Lane Time: 2:30 & 3:30 pm Information: (719) 593-7112; www.etoystation.com

Tis' the Season - A Colorado Christmas In this year’s iteration of The Colorado Springs Children's Chorale's annual Holiday Spectacu-lar, we celebrate our state and everything about it we love to call home. Doors Open 30 minutes before the show. Don't miss our Holiday market in the lobby. There will be a 15 minute intermis-sion. Tickets are $10 - $22. Location: Pikes Peak Center for the Perform-ing Arts, 190 South Cascade Avenue Time: 3:00 – 5:00 pm Information: (719) 633-3562; www.kidssing.org

9 Monday Air Force Academy Basketball vs. Western State Location: Cadet Field House Time: 7:00 pm Information: (719) 472-1895, www.goairforcefalcons.com

12 Thursday The Vanguard School High School Christmas Arts Festival This event features The Vanguard School high school choir, band, and student art exhi-bition. Come join us for a festive holiday concert celebrating the spirit of Christmas. Free and open to the public in out Cafetorium. For more information, please call the Van-guard School or visit our website. Location: The Vanguard School, 1605 South Corona Avenue Time: 6:30 - 7:30 pm Information: (719) 471-1999; www.cmca12.com

Homeschool Lunch Bunch Join us for a fun educational activity and bring a sack lunch to enjoy as you spend time getting to know other Homeschool families! Geared toward elementary age children but siblings younger and older are welcome. Registration is required. Please register all attending children ages 2 and over, including siblings. Location: Rockrimmon Library Time: Noon - 2:00 pm Information: (719) 593-8000; www.ppld.org

13 Friday Happy Holidays Moonlight Safari at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo What better way to enjoy an evening with the family than a fun night under the stars! Tour the zoo, visit the animals at night, and get an up-close visit from an amazing animal ambas-sador! Enjoy hot hog cookout, salad and lots of family fun. Kids must be 5 yrs old to partici-pate. The cost is $20.25 for members, $25.25 for non-members. Registration is required. Location: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Time: 6:00 – 9:00 pm Information: (719) 633-9925x127; [email protected]; www.cmzoo.org

Colorado Springs Chorale: Deck the Halls It’s the Colorado Springs Chorale’s Christmas family favorite - Deck the Halls, conducted for the final year by Donald P. Jenkins. Location: Pikes Peak Center Time: 7:30 pm Information: (719) 520-7469; www.pikespeakcenter.com

Let’s Play Chess and Checkers Casual chess and checkers at the library. Bring a friend, bring your enthusiasm, the boards will be out and ready. No registration needed. Security guard Tony, our resident expert, will be there to answer questions and provide instruction and experience. Location: Briargate Library Time: 3:30 – 5:00 pm Information: (719) 260-6882; www.ppld.org

13th & 14th Storytime Please join us as we read Frosty the Snowman

by Steve Nelson. We will relive the classic tale of a snowman come to life. Join us for a story, snack, and craft. Location: Barnes & Noble – Citadel Time: 10:30 am Information: (719) 573-6947

13th - 15th The Gospel According to Scrooge This story's power to touch people's hearts is undeniable, and this dramatic musical adaptation is sure to delight young and old alike! The Gos-

pel According to Scrooge will have you laugh-ing, crying, and on the edge of your seat as you meet the Ghost of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. Join Scrooge for an exciting family clas-sic that you won’t want to miss. Childcare is provided for children ages 0-4 years. Location: Victory World Outreach, 3150 S Academy Blvd Time: 12/13 – 7:00 pm; 12/14 & 12/15 - 6:00 pm Information: (719) 392-1231; www.victoryworldoutreach.com/scrooge

13th – 23rd Electric Safari Over one million glittering lights and 40 ani-mated light sculptures illuminate the Zoo and create dazzling memories for your family. Warming fires throughout the Zoo offer a reprieve from the chill, as do select indoor animal exhibits that remain open during the event. Top off this astounding display by gazing out at the city’s lights and watch all of Colorado Springs sparkle! Last admission is sold at 7:30 pm. Location: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Time: 5:30 – 8:30 pm Information: (719) 633-9925; www.cmzoo.org

Electric Safari


14 Saturday Summit by Candlelight The Colorado Springs Children’s Chorale in-vites you to join our Summit Ensemble for an intimate evening of Holiday favorites. Held each year at the Broadmoor Community Church, this concert features many of our region’s top high school singers. This holiday tradition is a high-light of our season. Tickets are $10. Location: Broadmoor Community Church, 315 Lake Ave. Time: 7:00 – 9:00 pm Information: (719) 633-3562; www.kidssing.org

Parents Night Out at Flipshack We’ll take care of the kids during a fun-filled night with trampolines, a bounce house, slack-line, and pizza! The cost is $25 ($15 for sib-lings). Registration is required. Location: 1789 South 8th St. Time: 5:30 – 9:00 pm Information: (719) 578-1006; www.flipshack.com

Family Nutcracker Event Location: Chick-fil-A, 575 Garden of the Gods Rd Time: 9:00 - 11:00 am Information: (719) 531-7320; www.cfarestaurant.com/gardenofthegods

Breakfast with Santa Cow Location: Chick-fil-A, 7990 N Academy Time: 8:00 -10:00 am Information: (719) 598-4646; www.chick-fil-a.com/northacademy

Nature Hikes with Santa Participate in the interactive reading of T’was

the Night Before Christmas poem, make a snow-flake craft, and then join Santa for a hike around the nature loop to see what gifts nature gives us. The cost is $3.00 for members, $4.00 for non-members and reservations are required. Location: Fountain Creek Nature Center Time: 10:00 – 11:30 am Information: (719) 520-6745; www.elpasocountyparks.com

Horse Drawn Wagon Rides. Enjoy the sounds of Suffolk horses clip-clopping down the regional trail with jingle bells and seasonal songs. It’s $5 per person and pre-paid reservations are required. Proceeds support the nature center expansion project. Location: Fountain Creek Nature Center Time: 11:30 am, 12:30 & 1:00 pm Information: (719) 520-6745; www.elpasocountyparks.com

114th Audubon Christmas Bird Count Come participate in this national citizen science event for the morning or all day. We’ll break into teams and search the park and other areas of the Colorado Springs Count Circle for all spe-cies and numbers of our feathered friends. It’s a great way to learn more about birds and improve birding skills while contributing valuable data for study. All ages and abilities are welcome. It’s free, but a $5.00 donation is recommended for birdseed and reservations are required. Location: Bear Creek Nature Center Time: 8:30 am Information: (719) 520-6387; www.elpasocountyparks.com

Cowboy Christmas Look for the Fountain Community Library’s activities at the City of Fountain’s Cowboy Christmas Event at City Hall. Plus, while you are out, stop by the library to warm up and enjoy a free bag of fresh popcorn! Location: Fountain City Hall Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Information: (719) 382-5347; www.ppld.org

Fairy Winter Wonderland It is a magical time of year at the High Prairie Library! Bring your wands and wings and join us for crafts, refreshments, and games. Location: High Prairie Library Time: 10:30 am Information: (719) 260-3650; www.ppld.org

Cookie Decorating & Holiday Fun Enjoy decorating cookies, or listening to a favor-ite story, or creating crafts, or music! Check with your community library for specific details about holiday activities at your location. Location: Cheyenne Mountain & Penrose Library Time: 2:00 pm – Cheyenne Mountain; 3:00 pm - Penrose Information: (719) 633-6278; (719) 531-6333; www.ppld.org

Downton Abbey Day Please join us as we celebrate the day with the Award Winning show Downton Abbey. There will be special giveaways and the show will be running throughout the day in our Community Room. Feel free to come dressed as your favorite character. Location: Barnes & Noble – Citadel Time: All day Information: (719) 573-6947

Robotics The Palmer Ridge High School Robotics Team presents “Explore STEM Day.” Come drive a frisbee-throwing robot, one that picks up blocks, or try your hand at an underwater rover. Explore the many fun opportunities with a Lego Mind-storms demonstration. Learn what FIRST Ro-botics has to offer for kids of all ages. Location: Monument Library Time: 1:30 pm Information: (719) 488-2370; www.ppld.org

Mrs. Claus Tells Stories Join storyteller Cathy Kelsay as she brings Mrs. Claus to life to tell your favorite holiday stories, sing holiday songs, and share puppets to celebrate the season. Some locations may include other activities in addition to Mrs. Claus, so please check with your local com-munity library for more holiday fun. Location: Ruth Holley Library Time: 10:30 am Information: (719) 597-5377; www.ppld.org

Air Force Academy Basketball vs. UC Riverside Location: Cadet Field House Time: 2:00 pm Information: (719) 472-1895, www.goairforcefalcons.com

Mrs. Claus Christmas Fun Reindeer rollick, snowmen dance and bells ring for a jolly good time with the dinosaurs at the Dinosaur Resource Center. Mrs. Claus will share her stories and songs and there will be treat bags for all visiting “elves”. So come and join the fun! Santa and Mrs. Claus will be waiting! Location: Dinosaur Resource Center, 201 S. Fairview St, Woodland Park Time: 1:30 – 2:30 pm Information: (719) 686-1820; www.rmdrc.com

Family Adventure Day Spend the day with your family being creative! Bemis School of Art’s instructors lead hands-on art activities that explore the theme of pets. All ages and skill levels welcomed. This month’s topic will be Holiday Traditions Around the World. Location: Bemis School of Art, 818 Pelham Pl. Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Information: (719) 475-2444; www.csfineartscenter.org

Santa and the Dinos Santa Claus is coming to the Dinosaur Re-source Center! We have our craft table avail-able for the children to make an ornament for our Christmas tree, as well as one for them-selves. Come, see Santa and the dinosaurs, and help us decorate our Christmas tree! Location: Dinosaur Resource Center, 201 S. Fairview St, Woodland Park Time: 1:00 – 3:00 pm Information: (719) 686-1820; www.rmdrc.com

Mrs. Claus Tells Stories


15 Sunday Peace on Earth: Christmas Around the World Benet Hill Monastery will present this piano trio Christmas concert featuring music of Tchaikovsky and Vivaldi. A carol sing-a-long and light holiday fare will follow the concert. Benet Hill is located in an intimate forested set-ting with beautiful views of the mountains. The cost is $20 for adults, $10 for students. Come let your soul be fed with music of joy and peace. Location: Benet Hill Monastery, Hwy. 83, north of Interquest Time: 2:00 pm

Information: (719) 633-0655; www.benethillmonastery.org

Help the Grinch Save Christmas at Toy Station Meet the Grinch and show him you care! Bring friends & family and good times we’ll share! It’s a free event! Location: Toy Station at School Crossing, 5540 Library Lane Time: 2:00 - 4:00 pm Information: (719) 593-7112; etoystation.com

Matilda (Rated PG) Location: Penrose Library Time: 2:00 pm Information: (719) 531-6333; www.ppld.org

15th & 16th Writing Group You are welcome to share your writing with the Colorado Springs Fiction Writers. This group offers positive critiques and support for both beginning and published writers. For more information, visit the website below. Location: Barnes & Noble – Citadel Time: 12/15 – noon; 12/26 - 6:00 pm Information: www.csfwg.org

16 Monday 16th – 18th Photos with Santa Cow Location: Chick-fil-A, Citadel Mall Time: 5:00 - 7:30 pm Information: (719) 596-2786; www.chick-fil-a.com/thecitadel

17 Tuesday Disney’s Planes (Rated PG, 104 min.) Location: High Prairie Library Time: 6:00 pm Information: (719) 260-3650; www.ppld.org

Homeschool Lunch Bunch Join us for a fun educational activity and bring a sack lunch to enjoy as you spend time getting to know other Homeschool families! Geared to-ward elementary age children but siblings younger and older are welcome. Registration is required. Please register all attending children ages 2 and over, including siblings. Location: Fountain Library Time: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Information: (719) 382-5347; www.ppld.org

Cookies and Carols Families, friends and neighbors: join us for cookie decorating and caroling, and then warm up with cider and cookies! Location: Old Colorado City Library Time: 6:30 pm Information: (719) 634-1698; www.ppld.org

Public Free Day at the Fine Arts Center On the third Tuesday of each month, the FAC offers the public free general admission. Due to heavy traffic on our Free Public Tuesdays, we are asking that all school groups schedule tours on an alternate day. School groups lar-ger than 15 must schedule a docent-led tour 2 weeks in advance. Please contact the tour coordinator at 719-477-4345. Location: Fine Arts Center, 30 W Dale St. Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Information: (719) 634-5583; csfineartscenter.org

19 Thursday Bear Creek Nature Explorers - The Gingerbread Man Children, ages 4 - 5 with an adult, will enjoy hands-on activities, puppet shows or stories, crafts, and a hike. The cost is $4.00 per per-son, including adults and siblings. Reserva-tions are required. Location: Bear Creek Nature Center Time: 10:00 - 11:30 am Information: (719) 520-6387; www.elpasocountyparks.com

Disney’s Planes (Rated PG, 104 min.) Location: Fountain Library Time: 6:30 pm Information: (719) 382-5347; www.ppld.org

Burt Bacharach Come see one of the most accomplished popular composers and pianists of the 20th Century. In the ’60s and ’70s, he was a dominant figure in pop music, responsible for a remarkable 52 Top 40 songs such as I'll Never Fall in Love Again and Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head. Location: Pikes Peak Center Time: 8:00 pm Information: (719) 520-7469; www.pikespeakcenter.com

19th or 20th F.A.W.N: First Adventures with Na-ture: Walk with a Waddle Bring your 18-36 month old to the Zoo with their favorite adult. It is never too early to introduce your toddler to the wonders of the natural world around them. During each class, we will learn about a variety of topics through age appropriate stories, special activities, and fun animal encounters. Which animal at the zoo walks with a waddle? The penguins! Join us for a First Adventures with Nature where we will explore the world of these feathered friends. Registration is required. Location: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Time: 8:45 – 9:30 am Information: (719) 633-9925x177; www.cmzoo.org

20 Friday Flick n’ Float December Kick off the holidays with the family by re-laxing at the pool and enjoying the movie Elf

at Woodmen Hills! Location: Woodmen Hills Recreation Center East, 9205 Meridian Ranch Blvd, Peyton Time: 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Information: (719) 495-2009; www.whmd.org

Holi-Date Family Date Night Location: Chick-fil-A N. Carefree location, 3710 Bloomington St Time: 6:00 -8:00 pm Information: (719) 596-3577; www.chick-fil-a.com/northcarefree

Bear Creek Little Wonders - Santa Claus Hike Discover the world of nature with your 2 or 3 year-old. Interactive activities and a short hike make this the perfect introduction to the outdoors for your child. The cost is $3.00 per participant, including adults & siblings. Res-ervations are required. Location: Bear Creek Nature Center Time: 10:00 – 11:15 am Information: (719) 520-6387; www.elpasocountyparks.com


Help the Grinch Save Christmas at Toy Station


Homeschool Science Lab Homeschooled students can use PPLD's sci-ence equipment for parent-assigned experi-ments, with the help of our volunteer. A par-ent must accompany the student. Location: East Library Time: 1:00 – 3:00 pm Information: (719) 531-6333; www.ppld.org

20th – 21st Winter Wildland WildNight at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Thinking of a fun holiday trip for the family this winter? Come on out to the zoo as we celebrate the holidays with our Winter Wonderland Wild-Night! Spend the night at the zoo touring the animals with lights aglow! Enjoy a delicious hot dog and salad dinner and stay warm with a special treat of s'mores. It may be cold outside, but around the zoo, we will be visiting the wonders of winter at night! Kids must be 5 years or older to participate. The cost is $35.35 for members, $45.25 for non-members. Registration is required. Location: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 am Information: (719) 633-9925x127; [email protected]; www.cmzoo.org

20th & 21st Storytime Please join us as we read How Do Dinosaurs Say

Happy Chanukah? by Jane Yolen. Celebrate the season with this new tale on classic holiday tradi-tion. Join us for a story, snack, and craft. Location: Barnes & Noble – Citadel Time: 10:30 am Information: (719) 573-6947

21 Saturday Monsters University (Rated G) Location: Sand Creek Library Time: 3:00 pm Information: (719) 597-7070; www.ppld.org

Lego Club Duplos for the little ones and thousands of Legos for the rest of us! Bring your creativity and have some fun! Location: Monument Library Time: 10:00 – 11:30 am Information: (719) 488-2370; www.ppld.org

Cookies and Carols Families, friends and neighbors: join us for cookie decorating and caroling, and then warm up with cider and cookies! Location: Manitou Springs Library Time: 11:00 am Information: (719) 685-5206; www.ppld.org

Cookie Decorating & Holiday Fun Enjoy decorating cookies, or listening to a favorite story, or creating crafts, or mu-sic! Check with your community library for specific details about holiday activities at your location. Location: Manitou Springs Library & Monument Library Time: 11:00 am Information: (719) 685-5206; (719) 488-2370; www.ppld.org

Mrs. Claus Tells Stories Join storyteller Cathy Kelsay as she brings Mrs. Claus to life to tell your favorite holiday stories, sing holiday songs, and share puppets to celebrate the season. Some locations may include other activities in addition to Mrs. Claus, so please check with your local com-munity library for more holiday fun. Location: Rockrimmon Library Time: 2:00 pm Information: (719) 593-8000; www.ppld.org

Nature Hikes with Santa Participate in the interactive reading of T’was

the Night Before Christmas poem, make a snowflake craft, and then join Santa for a hike around the nature loop to see what gifts nature gives us. The cost is $3.00 for members, $4.00 for non-members and reservations are required. Location: Fountain Creek Nature Center Time: 10:00 – 11:30 am Information: (719) 520-6745; www.elpasocountyparks.com

21st – 23rd Santa and the Dinos Santa Claus is coming to the Dinosaur Re-source Center! We have our craft table avail-able for the children to make an ornament for our Christmas tree as well as one for them-selves. Come, see Santa and the dinosaurs, and help us decorate our Christmas tree! Location: Dinosaur Resource Center, 201 S. Fairview St, Woodland Park Time: 1:00 – 3:00 pm Information: (719) 686-1820; www.rmdrc.com

Horse Drawn Wagon Rides Enjoy the sounds of Suffolk horses clip-clopping down the regional trail with jingle bells and seasonal songs. Its $5 per person and pre-paid reservations are required. Pro-ceeds support the nature center expansion project. Location: Fountain Creek Nature Center Time: 11:30 am, 12:30 & 1:00 pm Information: (719) 520-6745; www.elpasocountyparks.com

22 Sunday Christmas Symphony Sing noël at a concert filled with holiday clas-sics and annual favorites. Don’t miss the an-nual sing-a-long, Messiah, Nutcracker, and more. Location: Pikes Peak Center Time: 2:30 pm Information: (719) 520-7469; www.pikespeakcenter.com

23 Monday Colorado Youth Ballet: The Nutcracker Come see this Colorado Springs tradition. Location: Pikes Peak Center Time: 4:00 pm Information: (719) 520-7469; www.pikespeakcenter.com

Homeschool Program Location: Monument Library Time: 1:00 – 2:30 pm Information: (719) 488-2370; www.ppld.org

25 Wednesday ~ Christmas Day 25th – 1st Electric Safari Over one million glittering lights and 40 ani-mated light sculptures illuminate the Zoo and create dazzling memories for your family. Warming fires throughout the Zoo offer a reprieve from the chill, as do select indoor animal exhibits that remain open during the event. Top off this astounding display by gazing out at the city’s lights and watch all of Colorado Springs sparkle! Last admission is sold at 7:30 pm. Location: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Time: 5:30 – 8:30 pm Information: (719) 633-9925; www.cmzoo.org

Horse Drawn Wagon Rides



26 Thursday 26th & 27th Vacation with Santa Santa’s vacationing at Woodmen Hills Rec-reation Center this holiday season! Come join him and his elves for some reindeer games! Location: Woodmen Hills Recreation Center East, 9205 Meridian Ranch Blvd, Peyton Time: 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Information: (719) 495-2009; www.whmd.org

27 Friday Let’s Play Chess and Checkers Casual chess and checkers at the library. Bring a friend, bring your enthusiasm, the boards will be out and ready. No registration needed. Security guard Tony, our resident expert, will be there to answer questions and provide instruction and experience. Location: Briargate Library Time: 3:30 – 5:00 pm Information: (719) 260-6882; www.ppld.org

Happy Holidays Moonlight Safari at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo What better way to enjoy an evening with the family than a fun night under the stars! Tour the zoo, visit the animals at night and get an up-close visit from an amazing animal ambassador! Enjoy hot hog cookout, salad and lots of family fun. Kids must be 5 yrs old to participate. The cost is $20.25 for members, $25.25 for non-members. Registration is required. Location: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Time: 6:00 – 9:00 pm Information: (719) 633-9925x127; [email protected]; www.cmzoo.org

27th & 28th Storytime Please join us as we read Learning to Ski with

Mr. Magee by Chris Van Dusen. Mr. Magee wants to ski and oh, what an adventure it will be. Join us for a story, snack, and craft. Location: Barnes & Noble – Citadel Time: 10:30 am Information: (719) 573-6947

28 Saturday Winter Break Party Looking for something fun to do during Win-ter Break? Come join us at Ruth Holley for a party filled with cookie decorating, crafts, and snacks. Hosted by the Holley Teens. Location: Ruth Holley Library Time: 1:30 pm Information: (719) 597-5377; www.ppld.org

29 Sunday Jim Brickman: The Magic of Christmas Brickman, along with special guest perform-ers, delivers the perfect blend of music and entertainment, making lasting memories for the whole family. Brickman will perform holiday favorites along with the hits that have made him the best-selling solo pianist of our time. Emotion, intimacy, warmth, and humor come together for the ideal winter’s night celebration. The Magic of Christmas is the must-see concert of the holiday season. Location: Pikes Peak Center Time: 4:00 pm Information: (719) 520-7469; www.pikespeakcenter.com

Writing Group You are welcome to share your writing with the Under-Ground Writing Project. This group offers positive critiques and support for both beginning and published writers. For more information visit website below. Location: Barnes & Noble – Citadel Time: 4:00 pm Information: www.undergroundwritingproject.com

30 Monday Despicable Me 2 Location: High Prairie Library Time: 2:00 pm Information: (719) 260-3650; www.ppld.org

Kids Free Day This annual event presents an opportunity to bring the whole family out for a day of fun. Two kids age 12 and under will be admitted free with each regular paid adult admission. Marc Straub of “Cool Science” will be there with his experiments. See our website for further details. Location: Dinosaur Resource Center, 201 S. Fairview St, Woodland Park Time: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Information: (719) 686-1820; www.rmdrc.com

Mother-Daughter Book Club Fun book club for girls ages 9 - 12 and their mothers or a mother figure. Registration is required. Call to register. Location: East Library Time: 4:00 – 5:00 pm Information: (719) 531-6333x1403; www.ppld.org

30th – 3rd Camp Whiskers & Wags: Winter Edition Crafts and Critters Day Camp. Looking for ways to keep the kids busy this winter? Join us for new adventures, where kids and critters become friends! Campers will make a craft for their pet, design toys and treats for shelter animals, enjoy games and activities, visit with critters, and have lots of fun. It’s for children ages 6-12 years. Location: Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, 610 Abbot Lane Time: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm Information: (719) 302-8739; www.hsppr.org/camp

31 Tuesday New Year’s Eve Ring in the New Year with the biggest party in town! The Philharmonic presents perennial favorites and Broadway hits that will have you dancin’ in your seat. Location: Pikes Peak Center Time: 8:00 pm Information: (719) 520-7469; www.pikespeakcenter.com

Mark Your Calendar ~ January 1st Air Force Academy Basketball vs. Utah State Location: Cadet Field House Time: 6:00 pm Information: (719) 472-1895, www.goairforcefalcons.com

25th Family Adventure Day Spend the day with your family being crea-tive! Bemis School of Art’s instructors lead hands-on art activities that explore the theme of pets. All ages and skill levels welcomed. This month’s topic will be New Year Tradi-

tions. Location: Bemis School of Art, 818 Pelham Pl. Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Information: (719) 475-2444; www.csfineartscenter.org

Jim Brickman: The Magic of Christmas


Homemade How-To: Baby Jingle Block

T here are times when gifts call to be homemade. It's that little touch of extra

that can make all the differ-ence. It doesn't have to be per-fect, or even pretty. But a unique treasure from your heart and hand can really show you care. Gifts for baby are easy to make, because babies love simple things, such as soft, colorful things, things that they can grasp with their tiny hands (such accomplishment!), and especially, things that make noise. In harder times when cash flow may be, well, not flowing, handmade gifts save money while still showing huge amounts of love. We're going to make a Jingle Block. It has all of the above character-istics, while being super easy to make. If you don't have access to a sewing machine, this project is small enough to sew by hand. It's made with fabric scraps so can cost next to nothing. You can make it any size you want. The block shown was made out of 6 squares each roughly the size of a CD. Materials:

• A square template. You can make this out of a piece of paper or cardboard, or even another piece of fabric. Just measure it out to be equal on all sides.

• Fabric scraps. You will need 6 squares, preferably all different. Choose fabrics with different textures, like velvet, corduroy, or denim, and others with fun bold prints. Babies love stripes and polka-dots. Try to use what you have. I used an old silk night-gown, a terrycloth hand towel, some corduroy scraps, and some old heavy curtains I got at a swap.

• Stuffing. You can usually always find some kind of fiberfill at the thrift store. I found an almost full bag at the ARC for .99 cents. Another thing you can do if you sew a lot, is to save all of your small scrap cuttings in a bag. Or you can just make the scrap filling by cutting up the rest of the fabric you don't use

from the template into small pieces.

• Jingle Bells. I found these at the dollar store. Or you can use an old one you might have around from Christmas. I stuffed mine into a small drawstring bag filled with extra fiber fill before putting it into my block.

• Sewing machine, or needle and thread. This is a very simple project and we're using a straight stitch either way. A polyester thread will cost about $2-3 a spool, and you'll use very little of it. If you're using needle and thread, just make sure you use a double thickness for extra strength by threading your needle and pulling the thread all the way through to make a double line. Knot at the end.

Instructions: 1. Iron out your fabrics and cut out 6 squares total. Line them up

in the order you want to sew them. This will be 4 squares for the sides, and 2 for the top and bottom. Be aware of stretchy fabrics that may prove tricky. You can still use them, but know that if you're using a sewing machine, you may have extra fab-ric at the end of your line because of the stretch. Straight pins can help correct this, but not always. Don't worry about it if it does happen. Just trim it up. It's a baby toy. No need for perfec-tion. They'll love it anyway.

2. With right sides together, sew the sides of the first two pieces at 1/4 inch from the edge. Back stitch at the beginning and end to secure and then cut your thread. If you're hand stitching, secure by going back over your first couple of stitches. There is no need to trim up, as we'll be turning it inside out. Continue with the 3rd piece to the 2nd piece, and then the 4th to the 3rd. Fi-nally sew the 4th piece to the 1st. You now have a cube with open ends.

3. Again, with right sides together, sew your top piece on. This generally works best if you pin it, and if you start by sewing opposite sides. For example, sew 1 side of the top square to 1 side of your cube, and then instead of continuing on to the side that is touching what you've sewn (the perpendicular line), cut your thread and sew the opposite side (the parallel). Now sew the other 2 open sides the same way, remembering to back stitch.

4. Sew the bottom piece on the same way, except for the final side, which you'll leave a gap in the middle of to insert your filling into. Turn right side out by pulling the fabric through the gap. Poke out your corners with the eraser end of a pencil.

5. Insert your filling, followed by your jingles, followed by more filling. Don't over stuff; you want it to have a little bit of cush-ion room for baby to get a grip on it.

6. Turn your gap seams to the inside, and slip stitch together with your needle and thread (don't forget to back stitch!), tucking the knotted ends inside. You can always use your machine here as well if you can maneuver the block enough to get it under the foot. Cut your end threads.

All done! While this little block is made for a baby, it's also a great toy for a 2-year old learning to catch! My daughter had a great time playing with it, and the angles and different textures make for easier catching. As an added bonus, it's very lightweight and soft, so won't hurt if she misses and gets a face plant. It's machine washable and dryable. And, if you put a tennis ball in the dryer with it, it helps to keep it plush, pushing around the filling inside. Happy sewing! Stay tuned for other fun homemade toys in future My719Moms Homemade How-Tos from Bloom Daisy.



Top 10 Holiday Movies

H oliday movies have become a ritual for some families. We all

know the oldies (It’s A

Wonderful Life and A Char-

lie Brown Christmas), but there are many new ones that are worth adding to the December “must watch” list. Here are our picks for the Top Ten Holiday Movies, in no particular order.

• How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

• It's A Wonderful Life (1947)

• Elf (2003)

• Miracle On 34th Street (1947)

• A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

• A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)

• A Christmas Story (1983)

• Christmas Vacation (1989)

• Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987)

• The Polar Express (2005)

We are also really excited about the new movies coming out this year (2013). We can’t wait to hit the theater to see these new holiday mov-ies:

• Disney’s Frozen: A prophecy traps a kingdom in eternal winter, so Anna (voice of Kirsten Bell) must team up with Kristoff, a daring mountain man, on the grandest of journeys to find the Snow Queen (voice of Idina Menzel) and put an end to the icy spell. Encountering Everest-like extremes, mystical creatures, and magic at every turn, Anna and Kristoff battle the elements in a race to save the kingdom from destruction.

• The Christmas Candle: Legend has it every 25 years an angel visits the village candle maker and touches a single candle. Whoever lights this candle receives a miracle on Christmas Eve.

• Tyler Perry’s A Madea Christmas: Madea gets coaxed into helping a friend pay her daughter a surprise visit in the country for Christmas, but the biggest surprise is what they'll find when they arrive. As the small, rural town prepares for its annual Christmas Carnival, new secrets are revealed and old relation-ships are tested while Madea dishes her own brand of Christmas Spirit to all.

4 Holiday Shopping Tips

S hopping during the holidays is inevitable, but you can save

yourself some money and time by checking out these tips. 1. Don’t be fooled: Retail-

ers are advertising BIG Discounts, sales, and "door busters." However, they aren't always a good deal. Do your homework! Check out different stores and ads before you buy. The best sales aren't always the ones with the biggest headlines.

2. Gift card dos and don’ts: If you are buying gift cards, check out what kind of fees are attached. Some gift card retailers add fees to cards that aren't used within a year. Major credit card companies charge fees, just for having their name on the card! Retailers that go out of business are not required to refund gift cards. Make sure the receiver of a gift card will use the card or you've wasted your money.

3. Don't buy the extended warranty. Consumer Reports wrote that a majority of items never break within the warranty time period. Even if they do break, most of the costs to fix it are close to the warranty price or even less. Your credit card company may auto-matically extend the manufacturer's warranty on anything you buy with them, so check your card's website to see whether that benefit is offered and how it works.

4. Check the return policy. Return policies vary from store to store, so make sure you have receipts and original packaging. Check the store's return policy if you even think the gift may need to be re-turned. Some stores even charge a restocking fee. If you return a defective product, you are usually not required to pay a restocking fee.

Recipe of the Month: Peppermint Meringues

T his time of year, we all are extremely busy. With trying to find the perfect presents, going to holiday concerts, and hosting and at-tending holiday parties. It is a wonderful time of year filled with

families and delicious food. Some are quite decadent, so it's nice to find a holiday treat that is guilt free. Yes, I said guilt free! Peppermint Me-ringues fit that bill. Meringues are a simple, light as air, cookie that take just minutes to prepare, a few hours drying in the oven, and seconds to devour. I make mine with peppermint extract and crushed peppermint candy canes, but you could do vanilla extract and mini chocolate chips or almond extract and toasted coconut. The combinations are endless. Enjoy! Peppermint Meringues

• Makes approx. 3 dozen cookies

• 1c sifted powdered sugar, divided

• 2 large egg whites

• ¼ tsp peppermint extract

• ¼c finely crushed peppermint candy canes

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and heat the oven to 175F. In a clean mixing bowl, place egg whites and mix on medium speed until foamy. Increase speed to high and whip until soft peaks form. Add in half of the powdered sugar slowly and whip until stiff peaks form. Add peppermint extract and mix briefly. Slowly fold in re-maining powdered sugar with a rubber spatula. Scoop the meringue in to a large piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe small me-ringue kisses, 1 ¼ in wide and 1 in high, onto parchment paper. Sprinkle with crushed candies. Bake until dry for about 3 hours. Turn oven off and let cool in the oven for 1 hour. Serve immediately or keep in airtight container for up to one week.

Melanie Denton, OD CSHP Optometrist 1625 Medical Center Pt. 719-635-5148

T echnology has come a long way, and with those advancements, there are many more screens that our children

interact with and are sometimes glued to on a daily basis. Too much TV and other media use have been tied to obesity, sleep, school problems, and aggression. Reinforcement of the guidelines we know our children need can help limit unnecessary time in front of

those screens and prevent headaches (literally) in the future:

Television

• Set limits: - Put time restraints on computer & video gaming and televi-sion watching (1-2 hours TOTAL combined) - Avoid putting a television in your child’s bedroom - Make a rule not to watch television during homework

• Make homework and other activities a priority over TV

• Plan TV watching vs. flipping channels

• Watch TV with your child and take the opportunity to talk about the content

• Explain to children that what is on TV is not “real”, even if the show claims to be a “reality show”

• Look for quality videos or DVDs

• Offer other choices: playing outside, a game, reading, sports, art, music, spending time with friends, etc.

• Set a good example-limit your own viewing

• Children under two years old should not be watching TV or other screens – there’s no benefit

Internet, Smart Phones (iPhone, Droid, etc.) and Tablets (i.e., iPads, etc.)

• Again, limit the time spent online or in front of a screen each day (no more than 2 hours TOTAL)

• Surfing the net should not replace homework time, playing outside or with friends, or other activities

• Explain to your child that people online are not always who they say they are

• Enable the parental controls available through your internet service provider to limit what your child has access to

• Set a good example by limiting your own use

• On the internet, teach your child to NEVER:

− Give out personal information

− Use a credit card

− Share passwords

− Arrange face-to-face meetings with people

− Use bad language

− Respond to messages that make them uncomfortable

The American Academy of Pediatrics (www.aap.or) – Council on Communications and Media

Health Notes Limiting Screen Time



Y ou and your kids can make this adorable bell ornament using a clay flowerpot and a few other supplies. This craft is best for kids twelve years and up.

Materials:

• Small Clay Pot

• Metallic Acrylic Paint (color of

choice)

• Holiday Stickers (with clear back-

ground) or Rub-On Decals

• Metallic Cord

• Small Wooden Bead

• Plastic Bead

• Craft Glue or Hot Glue Gun

• Paint Brush

• Scissors Instructions: 1. Paint the pot, inside and out, with the metallic paint. If you

would like, the inside can be a different color. 2. Paint the wooden bead the same color as inside of the bell. Let

the wooden bead dry. 3. Cut a piece of metallic cord about 20-inches long, which will

be longer than you will need. 4. Fold the metallic cord in half so that both cord ends are to-

gether and there is a loop on the other end. Then thread the loop

through the bead. Pull the loop through the bead so it is long enough to use to hang your ornament. Tie a knot in the cord to hold the bead on the cord.

5. Leave the ends of the cord long enough to tie on the wooden bead. Thread the wooden bead onto the ends of the cord and tie it in place. Hang so it is just peeking out from the clay pot bell. Clip the ends of the cord if necessary.

6. Dab a bit of glue on the bead on the side opposite of the cord knot. Thread the loop of the cord, from the inside of the clay pot, up through the hole in bottom of the clay pot.

7. To decorate your bell, use stickers or rub-on decals, or you can also paint your own design and personalize it with a name and date.

Craft Corner Clay Pot Christmas Bell Craft

By Krista Fabregas

A Christmas tree's twinkling lights, colorful decorations, and tempting presents are sim-ply irresistible to small children -- but tod-

dlers and tree trimmings aren't always a perfect mix. Here are some tips to help busy parents decorate a worry-free Christmas tree that's safer for little ones without giving up holiday style. Tip 1 - Avoid Toppling Trees: Tipping trees can be inconvenient and even dangerous. To keep Christmas trees upright, start with a sturdy base that measures at least half of the full width of the tree. Then add extra support by running string or fishing line from the upper part of the trunk to an anchor on the wall, such as a sturdy picture hook. This easy trick helps keep the tree upright if chil-dren tug on branches or ornaments. Tip 2 - Be Bright with Lights: Wrap light strands close to the tree trunk and out of reach of little hands to protect children from the many haz-ards lights pose. Also consider using a power strip with a safety cover to easily and safely manage multiple light strands. On pre-lit artificial trees, check that lights are well secured and that bulbs are intact. Tip 3 - Swag Trees in Kid-Safe Style: Tinsel and garland swags twisting around the tree can pose a tipping hazard. Instead of winding trees in yards of garland, consider draping it in smaller sections that, if pulled, can come away without bringing the tree with it. Tip 4 - Trim with Toddlers in Mind: Don't forego hanging treasured or fragile ornaments in the name of safety; just hang them out of reach. Use more durable, kid-friendlier ornaments such as wooden or plastic ornaments and ribbon bows lower on the tree. Keep ornaments in place by securing them with ribbon or stretch cord instead of ornament hangers. Tip 5 - Remember, Size Matters: Since choking on small objects is among the most common

household dangers for young children, it's good to remember this childproofing rule of thumb when trimming the tree; if it can fit inside a cardboard paper towel tube, a toddler can swallow it. Secure small ornaments and those with small pieces high in the tree and avoid using fishhook-style orna-ment hangers, which can become lodged in the throat if swallowed. Remember that safety never takes a holiday, but a little creative planning can make the Christmas tree a worry-free centerpiece in any busy family home. Now for childproofing the gifts... that's a challenge. Krista Fabregas founded KidSmartLiving.com in

1999 to help parents combine safety, livability

and style in a home that's welcoming to family

members of all ages. Find more KidSmart home

decorating tips, family-friendly products and how

-to videos at KidSmartLiving.com and on the

KidSmartLiving @ Home Blog Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Krista_Fabregas


Five Tips for Trimming a Toddler-Friendly Christmas Tree

Five Tips for Trimming a Toddler-Friendly Christmas Tree


Top 4 Christmas Tree Decorating Tips for Creating a Masterpiece in Your Living Room

By Mary L. James

A Christmas tree serves as the centerpiece of every holiday home decoration, that's why most homeowners take the time and effort

setting it up and making sure it's perfect. This may be fun, but it's also a tedious job. But don't worry; there are several ways to make Christmas tree decorating simpler and much easier. Here are some tips: Keep it fresh Once you've chosen this year's perfect tree, set it in water immediately as you arrive home. A fresh-cut tree will absorb plenty of water early on. Use a stand that has good water reservoir to keep your tree fresh all throughout the holiday season. Decide on a theme Once your tree is all set for decorating, decide on what theme to follow. It could be a color theme or a Christmas theme like Winter Wonderland. Doing so will save you a lot of time since you have an idea which decors you will use to decorate your Christmas tree. Tip: If you want something more unique for a color theme than the classic red and green, why not try a

combination of copper and blue? It will give a dra-matic look for your Christmas tree and will surely charm your guests. Attach Christmas lights first Before putting on any décor on your Christmas tree, attach your Christmas lights first before any-thing else. This task is the most time-consuming so it is good to get it over with early on in the process. Start from the bottom of the tree going up, string-ing the lights underside every branch. It is advis-able to wrap your Christmas lights in the depth of the tree instead of simply draping it around the perimeter. This way, you will have more space for your ornaments and it will give your Christmas tree a 3D effect look. Arrangement of Ornaments Instead of simply hanging your ornaments at the tip of the tree's branches, place them further inside to add depth and uniqueness. Start by placing the basic ornaments like Christmas balls and tinsels evenly around the tree. Place the 'more special' ornaments in between the basic ones. Add-ons and finishing touches, such as icicles and snowflakes, should be distributed around the tree after every ornament is placed. Tip: Use ribbons instead of tinsels - it's safer for the kids in the household and it's less clean-up. If you get organized and follow these simple tips, you will find out that Christmas tree decorating is a piece of cake after all. Mary James loves writing about Christmas topics

and creating websites about them. Her latest web-

site showcases some great Christmas Tree Skirts,

and you can see them at squidoo.com/bucilla-

treeskirt-kits Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_L._James

Top 4 Christmas Tree Decorating Tips for Creating a Masterpiece in Your Living Room

Sports Sign-ups


ORGANIZATION GENERAL INFORMATION REGISTRATION PHONE # BOXING

City of C/S PR&CS

One Springs Youth Boxing. Ages 8-21. Program runs 3 days per week from 5-7 p.m. at the Memorial Park Recreation Center. www.springsgov.com/CommunityPrograms

Register anytime! (719) 385-5981

DANCE

Ballet Society of Colorado Springs

Southern Colorado's Dance Leader. www.danceinthesprings.com. Performance opportunities and Colorado Youth Ballet in residence. www.coloradoyouthballet.com 4005 Lee Vance View (near the SE corner of Woodmen and Rangewood)

Call for Information

(719) 272-7078

Turning Pointe Dance

Let them praise His name with dancing. Visit our studio at 7667 N. Union, Colorado Springs, CO 80920. www.turningpointeschoolofdance.com


(719) 445-9497

GOLF

City of C/S PR&CS

The First Tee® of Pikes Peak is a youth development organization that teaches life-enhancing values to its participants through the game of golf. Details at www.springsgov.com/FirstTee


(719) 286-0506

GYMNASTICS Flipshack Gymnastics Fitness

Classes, Camps, Open Gym & More! When you have a Flipshack foundation, all physical endeavors come easier. 1789 S. 8th Street. [email protected]


(719) 578-1006

The Little Gym Non-competitive gymnastics, dance, karate, Parent’s Survival Nights and Awesome Birthday Bashes. Parent/Child classes 4 mos-3 yrs, preschool gymnastics, dance & sports skills classes 3-6 yrs, and grade school gymnastics & dance classes for 6-12 yrs. www.thelittlegym.com


(719) 477-9153

ICE SKATING

City of C/S PR&CS

Sertich Ice Center offers a comprehensive skating school with top rated Learn-to-Skate and specialty classes. Most divided by age and ability and held once a week. www.springsgov.com/Sertich


(719) 385-5983

MARTIAL ARTS

U.S. Taekwondo Center

Taekwondo: Programs for the whole family. Home of 1988 US Olympic Coach Grandmaster Sang Lee. First lesson free.

Register now! (719) 598-8000

SOCCER

Soccer Buddies For ages 10 months -12 years. Two convenient locations, Play It Now Sports (near Academy & Union), Colorado Sports Center (Monument), and our South location, 117 East Las Vegas St. Call to schedule a free trial class. www.coloradosoccerbuddies.com

Register now! (719) 330-9642

SWIMMING

Woodmen Hills Recreation Center

December Swimming Lessons December 2nd-December 28th – Don’t forget to register your kiddos for swimming lessons this holiday season! You can register now through the first week of lessons but the deadline is December 9th. Wood-men Hills Recreation Center East 9205 Meridian Ranch Blvd. Peyton 80831.


(719) 495-2009

TENNIS

COSTennis Through a contract with City of C/S, PR&CS and the Pikes Peak Community Tennis Association, COS Tennis provides public tennis for the Pikes Peak region. A comprehensive junior tennis program is available. www.ColoradoSpringsTennis.com


(719) 385-6023 Pro-shop

WINTER ···· WINTER ···· WINTER ···· WINTER ···· WINTER ···· WINTER



Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum Location: 215 S. Tejon Hours of Operation: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm (Tuesday – Saturday) Information: (719) 385-5990; www.cspm.org Window Into History Tours Every Saturday in December at noon, The Colo-rado Springs Pioneers Museum offers a free 30 minute “highlights” tour. Call to reserve your spot. Caring For Those Less Fortunate: Celebrating

100 Years of the Myron Stratton Home

The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum will be commemorating the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Myron Stratton home with a new exhibit that was unveiled August 3rd. This exhibit will highlight the unique role this institution has played in supporting the needs of the less fortunate in our community. Legacy: 2013 International Watermedia Exhibition

Hosted in collaboration with the Pikes Peak Watercolor Society, this juried exhibition presents a rich spectrum of original work by visionary watermedia artists. Behind the Lens: Photographers of the Pikes

Peak Region

This unique exhibit examines the history of pho-tography and highlights five photographers who captured the unique spirit and beauty of this area. From Paris to the Plains: Van Briggle Art Pottery The exhibit draws upon the museum’s renowned collection of Van Briggle Art Pottery and features the finest examples from the pottery’s first decade of operation.

Children’s Literacy Center Information: (719) 471-8672; www.childrensliteracycenter.org Join Children's Literacy Center in providing free individual tutoring to children reading below grade level! Tutor one child, two hours, twice a week and help that child become a successful reader over the course of 12 weeks. Our tutors are volunteers who are 14 years of age and able to read, write and speak English fluently. Training in our Peak Reader curric-ula is provided. To sign up for the fall session call or send an email to [email protected]. Pikes Peak Library District

Information: (719) 531-6333; www.ppld.org Paws to Read Let your child practice reading and build fluency by reading to a “Paws to Read” dog. No registra-tion is required. Call or visit our website for loca-tions, times, and more information. Story Time Come hear stories and more for children ages three and older. Call or visit your closest branch for story time themes.

Toddler Time at the Library This program introduces the delights of rhyme, rhythm, and a few special stories as a first step to reading for one and two year-old children and caregivers. The program lasts approximately 20 minutes. Call or visit our website for locations, times, and more information.

Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center

Information: (719) 634-6666; www.gardenofgods.com Get Fit at the Garden –Wellness Walk This is a free one, two, or three-mile measured walk at the Garden. Following the hike, join our partici-pants for free nourishment in the Garden café along with an educational conversation about the Park. Dress for the weather; wear sturdy shoes, bring water, hat, and sunscreen as needed. Call 719-219-0108 with questions. Time: Wednesdays at 9:00 am

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Information: (719) 633-9925; www.cmzoo.org

Animal Ambassadors Every Saturday and Sunday, docent volunteers have different animals available for contact and educational experiences with the public. Time: 1:15 - 3:15 pm, The Loft

Hippo Training Demonstrations Are hippos smart? You be the judge. Come see zookeepers train in the Aquatics Center and prac-tice various interactive exercises with hippos. Time: Daily at 2:00 pm

Early Explorers: Baby its Cold Outside Early explorers and their favorite adult will discover nature and its many wonders during these programs at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Each month we will learn about a variety of topics through age appropri-ate stories, special activities, and unique animal encounters. It’s for ages 3-5. The cost includes 1-hour program (for one child and one adult). When registering, please choose Wednesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays with your class theme. This month our theme is Baby its Cold Outside. When it’s cold outside we put on a coat or a sweater. But what do animals do to help stay warm in the winter? In this class, we will discover what many animals do to survive the frigid temperatures from winters around the world. Registration is required. Time: Wednesdays, Thursdays, & Saturdays, December 4th through 21st, 10:00 – 11:00 am Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

Be a Junior Ranger! This program is available year round at the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. You can get a copy of the junior ranger workbook at the visitor center. After completing activities in the park and in the book, you can earn a junior ranger badge or patch. The junior ranger program usually takes a commitment of 1.5 – 2 hours. There is a variety of ranger-guided programs in the summer, but there are self-guided trails and other hiking trails avail-able year round. This is an excellent place for kids to explore, discover, learn, and have fun! Location: Florissant, CO Information: (719) 748-3253

Space Foundation Discovery Center Seeking curious adults and children of all ages! We’ve brought the wonders of space here to earth for all to enjoy - exhibits and interactive displays of our solar system, planets, space missions, weather and more! The Discovery Center includes the Northrop Grumman Science Center featuring an interactive Science On a Sphere® theatre and the El Pomar Space Gallery featuring the Launch to the Moon Exhibit and a wide variety of space artifacts and interactive displays. For a coupon and to learn more, call or visit our website. Location: 4425 Arrowswest Drive

Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Tuesday - Saturday Information: (719) 576-8000; www.SpaceFoundation.org/visit

Flipshack

Location: 1789 South 8th St. Information: (719) 578-1006; www.flipshack.com Monkey Gym On Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays, kids 5 & under explore and play on trampolines, mats, ropes a bounce house, and more! Great indoor physical fun! Grown-ups must stay to supervise. Only $6. Time: Noon – 2:00 pm Open Gym On Saturdays for kids 6 & up. The cost is $10. Time: Noon – 1:30 pm Skate City Austin Bluffs Location: 4575 Austin Bluffs Pkwy Information: (719) 591-1016; [email protected] The first Tuesday of each month is Family Chris-tian Music Night from 6:00-8:00 pm, admission is $3.50 (skate rental $1.50), skate to your favorite Christian music. Great for families.

Garden Ranch YMCA

Family Climbing Wall Our family climbing wall provides fun for all ages. You'll be amazed how young elementary school children can climb the overhanging wall by the "mountain slide." For a challenge for the entire family, come to one of our instructional classes and learn how to climb safely. The Climbing Wall is open Monday through Thursday. Time: 4:00 - 7:30 pm Information: (719) 593-9622; www.ppymca.org Water Slide Our water slide is available on Saturdays and Sun-days. Call for a pool schedule and information on swimming lessons offered all year long. Time: Saturdays: Noon – 3:00 pm; Sundays: 2:00 – 4:00 pm Information: (719) 593-9622; www.ppymca.org

Ongoing Events

Literacy Programs

Physical Fitness & Fun

Miscellaneous

History & Culture

Nature & Outdoors


1. "Oh! oh! oh!" 2. The Elf-abet! 3. North Polish! 4. Claustrophobic! 5. Missile-toe!

1. What did Santa say when his sled went backwards? 2. What do elves learn in school? 3. What nationality is Santa Claus? 4. What do you call people

who are afraid of Santa Claus? 5. If athletes get athlete’s foot, what do

astronauts get?

Gonna Crack You Up!

Beaver Creek 21st & 28th Family FunFest Watch the village come alive with music, magic, food and fun. Get your caricature drawn or face painted, partake in some fun games and activities, or just sit back and listen to the music. It’s a village-style carnival, complete with games, prizes, a bouncy house, caricature art, music, and more! Location: Beaver Creek Village Time: 4:00 – 5:30 pm Information: (970) 754-4636; beavercreek.com

21st – 4th WinterFest Kids’ WinterFest is back! Get ready for perform-ances, interactive activities, winter characters, pa-rades, contests, holiday lights, and more! Activities occur each day on the Village Plaza during après ski hours – join us for excitement in the Village after a day of excitement on the slopes. All WinterFest ac-tivities are free and fun for “kids” of all ages! Location: Beaver Creek Resort Village Plaza Information: (970) 754-4636; beavercreek.com

31st New Year's Eve Family Bash Spend New Year’s Eve with the whole family – join us at McCoy’s for the 3rd Annual New Year’s Eve Family Bash! There’ll be games, a DJ, danc-ing, raffle prizes, 2 balloon drops, and so much more! All ages are welcome! Location: McCoy’s, Beaver Creek Village Time: 6:30 pm Information: (970) 754-4636; beavercreek.com

7th Lighting of Breckenridge We will kick off the holiday season with a kids’ fundraiser Reindeer Run, a new addition to Race of the Santas. The fun runs take place just prior to the Lighting of Breckenridge, both include costumes with registration, and proceeds benefit Adopt an Angel Summit County. Family members can dress as reindeer, Santa or Mrs. Claus for this downtown event that brings hundreds of Santa Clauses sprint-ing down Main Street. Registration starts at $10; the $30 entry includes a Santa suit. Lighting of the town tree follows the race. Location: Town of Breckenridge Time: 3:00 pm Information: (800) 789-7669; www.breckenridge.com

20th – 31st The Twelve Days of Copper Get your festive on with the Twelve Days of Copper. Torchlight parades for Christmas and New Year’s Eve, fireworks, fire dancers, rail jams, and more! Location: Copper Mountain Resort Information: (866) 841-2481; www.coppercolorado.com

6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th, 21st, 27th & 28th Ski with a Ranger Once a week at Copper Mountain, skiers get the chance to learn more about their surroundings, hitting the slopes with a special guide. The “Ski With A Ranger” program covers everything from the types of trees that line the trails to the type of snow best coveted by skiers and boarders. Location: Copper Mountain Resort Time: 11:00 am Information: (866) 841-2481; www.coppercolorado.com

14th Santa Day Crested Butte Mountain Resort is sponsoring a "Santa Day" in hopes of breaking the Guinness Book of World Records for the most number of skiers in full Santa costumes. Participants need to be decked out in a full Santa suit in order to partici-pate, and CBMR will be offering amazing dis-counts on lift tickets and lodging for participants. Location: Crested Butte Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Information: (800) 810-7669; www.skicb.com

24th Torchlight and Santa's Sleighride Watch Santa come down the mountain on a sleigh pulled by a snowcat. Ho, Ho, Ho! Get in the holi-day spirit as he hands out candy canes to all the good little girls and boys. Then stay to watch the Crested Butte Ski and Ride School perform their famous torchlight parade down the front side of the mountain. Location: Crested Butte Time: 4:00 – 8:30 pm Information: (800) 810-7669; www.skicb.com

21st Kidtopia Snowfort Opens Keystone's spectacular Kidtopia Snowfort opens for the season! A lift ticket, foot passenger lift ticket, or season pass is required to access the mountain. Location: Top of Dercum Mountain Information: (800) 354-4386; www.keystoneresort.com

21st & 28th Ripperoo's Village Parade Come and join Ripperoo as he parades through the village with his Ski School friends every Saturday. Help them dance their way to the Dercum Square Ice Rink for Cookie Hour. The parade also features performers, Ripp’s new parade float, and a horse drawn wagon for Ripperoo’s young friends to ride along! Location: Keystone Resort Time: 4:15 pm Information: (800) 354-4386; www.keystoneresort.com

21st & 28th Kidtopia Fireworks Enjoy Kidtopia's firework show every Saturday from December 21st through March 29th. Observers can see fireworks from Lakeside Village and River Run. Location: Keystone Resort Time: 7:00 pm Information: (800) 354-4386; www.keystoneresort.com

24th Santa Skis/Rides Monarch Bring the little ones up to hang out with Santa as he skis or rides around the mountain. Santa will also be roaming the base area looking for photo oppor-tunities. Location: Monarch Ski Area

Time: 10:00 am - Noon Information: (719) 530-5081; www.skimonarch.com

20th – 22nd & 31st Holidaze Vail Family Holidaze returns in December with ice-skating performances by world-champion ice skaters, tree lighting, and the New Year’s Eve Torchlight Ski Down and fireworks. Location: Vail Resort Information: (970) 754-8245; vail.com/holidaze

24th Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks The Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade is one of the most beloved Winter Park traditions. The event begins with Christmas carols around the bonfire at the base of Winter Park Resort, next to the Zephyr Lift at 4pm. At 5:30pm, a procession of torch-bearing skiers and riders begin their way down Lower Hughes trail, followed by Santa Claus and his merry helpers. A spectacular fireworks display and snowcats adorned with Christmas colors light up the slopes in a Christ-mas tree formation to conclude the festivities. Immedi-ately following the show at 6pm, visitors are welcome to attend Christmas Eve interdenominational services located in the lower level of the Balcony House and Catholic Church services located in West Portal Level 4. Services are scheduled to last about an hour. Location: Base of Winter Park Resort Time: 5:30 pm

Information: (303) 316-1564; www.winterparkresort.com

24th Breakfast with Santa at Doc's Roadhouse What a treat to enjoy breakfast with Santa on Christmas Eve at Doc's Roadhouse! Location: Doc's Roadhouse, Winter Park Resort Time: 7:30 – 10:00 am

Information: (303) 316-1564; www.winterparkresort.com

Crested Butte


Vail

Beaver Creek

Head to the Mountains

Winter Park

Keystone

Breckenridge

Copper Mountain

Monarch


The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (Not Yet Rated) Release Date: December 13, 2013 Director: Peter Jackson Writer: Peter Jackson, Guillermo del Toro Starring: Ian McKellen, Hugo

Weaving, Andy Serkis, Martin Freeman, Rich-ard Armitage, Aidan Turner

Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug continues the adventure of the title character Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) as he journeys with the Wizard Gandalf (Ian McKellan) and thirteen dwarves, led by Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage) on an epic quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor.

Walking with Dinosaurs (PG) Release Date: December 20, 2013 Director: Pierre de Lespinois, Neil Nightingale Writer: John Collee Studio: 20th Century Fox Recent discoveries and a breakthrough in technology will introduce new and unique dinosaurs that are more real than ever before and put moviegoers in the middle of a thrill-ing prehistoric adventure, where an underdog dinosaur triumphs against all odds to become a hero for the ages.

Movies - In Theaters


By Sherrie Antes

1. Noggin Stik A light-up head, soft rattling base and easy-to-grip design offer excellent benefits for babies and for kids with special needs. It’s an effective way to develop focus while stimulating visual and tactile senses. Batteries included. Ages 0 to 12 months $22.99 2. Bunny Peek A Boo Think outside the box! A bunny and 4 big wooden blocks come together to create 60 fun challenges that help teach logic, problem solving and spatial dynamics. Ages 2 to 4 years $25.99 3. Smooth Touch Alphabet Tablet Even before learning to read, learning to pronounce is key. This high-tech styled tablet translates phonics into 4 games that help learn letters, sounds and word spell-ing. 31 smooth, sensitive touch icons make it colorful and fun. Compatible with English or Spanish language. Requires 2 AAA batteries, included. Ages 3 to 5 years $29.99 4. Rainbow Fairy Wings with Glitter Let creativity take flight in silky-sheer fairy or butterfly wings sparked with color and glitter. Encourage poise, imagination and self-expression as kids lose themselves in the world of pretend. Secured with straps at the shoul-ders and loops for fingers. Hand wash, air dry. Ages 3 to 7 years $17.99 5. Hop & Squeak Pogo Jumper Energy to burn? Jump and hop to your heart’s con-tent! Hop & Squeak Pogo Jumper is made from soft, durable foam and has a stretch bungee cord that ac-commodates any height. Supports up to 250 lbs. Soft grip handles let you jump with confidence and joy! Ages 3 to 10 years $17.99 6. Lego’s Friends Heartlake High School’s in session with a full day of fun and learning! Report to science class, then biology and geography. Get lunch in the cafeteria and eat at the picnic table outside. Delve into art and music in the afternoon. Work off energy playing basketball or riding your bike after school! Includes Stephanie, Matthew, and Ms. Stevens mini-doll figures. Ages 6 to 12 Years $49.99

7. Wired Science Reveal the fun side of science with experi-ments so cool you may want to enter one in your school’s science fair. Us e the Energy Stick to turn your body into a conductor of electricity,. Turn LEDs into light graffiti. Follow the flow of electricity through liquids and solids. This kit shows you how. Batteries included. Ages 8 to 12 years $19.99

8. Rainbow Loom This is a super fun rubber band bracelet making kit. The kit comes with 600+ latex free rubber bands, which can make up to 24 bracelets. Rubber bands in sin-gle or assorted colors can be purchased separately to add to the fun! One of the hottest items of the year. Ages 8 and up $17.99 9. Spirograph Deluxe Set The original Spirograph was invented by Denys Fisher in 1965 and has been inspiring kids ever since. Create beau-tifully intricate designs using the mo-tion of gears around wheels. The 45 piece deluxe set includes 19 wheels, 2 rings, spiro-putty, 3 pens, design paper, guide booklet and carry-along storage case. Ages 8 and up $29.99 10. Laser Maze Trigger your strategic thinking. Pick a card. Set up the game grid to meet the challenge. Decide where to add tokens. When the laser beam hits the targets, you win! Batteries included. A one-player game. Ages 8 to adult $29.99

Sherrie Antes is the owner of Toy Station and reminds

you that local businesses support local economies!

Shop in our store or on-line! www.Etoystation.com

Toy Station’s Top 10 Picks for 2013


T his is a fun recipe for the kids to help with this Christmas! They will always be the cutest Christmas cookies on the holiday cookie platter! Santa won't be able to resist these on

Christmas Eve and neither will your little (and big) elves! This recipe makes 24 cookies.

Ingredients:

• 1 (18-ounce) package refrigerated peanut butter or sugar cookie dough

• 48 small pretzel twists

• 48 brown M&M's candies

• 24 red M&M's candies

Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Place cookie dough in freezer for 15 minutes, or until firm.

2. Cut dough into 24 slices and place slices 2 inches apart on large ungreased cookie sheets.

3. Pinch in each side to form an hourglass shape for the reindeer head. 4. Position 2 pretzels at top of each slice to form antlers. 5. Create eyes with brown candies and noses with red candies.

6. Bake 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden. Remove to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy!

Cooking with Your Kids Reindeer Cookies

By Scoti Springfield Domeij

T raditions tug at our hearts, especially during this season that magnifies our sense of loss, unrealistic expectations, and nostalgia. Children hope Santa brings everything on their wish lists. Adults long for ideal-

ized visions of a Norman Rockwell happy, healthy family gathering. So how do we manage losses and griefs of the heart and still attain joy?

Growing up, money was tight. Daddy generated holiday excitement hauling a real tree on his strong, wide shoulders into our living room to adorn with glass balls and homemade decorations. The year dad pur-chased a fake tree was the year I offered to pack the pieces back in the box, minus a few strategic tree limbs. Few gifts lay under our tree, but Daddy stirred our imaginations about gifts chosen by Daddy Santa to appear Christmas morning. Before consuming Christmas dinner, Mom read the story of Jesus’ birth from the Bible.

The first Christmas I experienced grief and depression, I was twenty-four years old and 8000 miles from home in the middle of Kruger National Park, a South African game reserve. I sat in a mud roundhouse enduring the 90+ subtropical heat. The Christmas dinner menu featured kudu, a leaping African antelope with corkscrew horns, not the plodding turkey. My lonely heart desired nothing more than to be home, hearing the crunch of snow under food on a walk with my family. Instead, I ventured into the hot, dry bush outside our camp and scavenged a broken tree branch. I covered the needleless, leafless bough with aluminum foil and hung foil-covered, upside-down Styrofoam cups from spindly branches. My most precious memories of that Christmas with the silver sprig? Salty homesick tears saturating my pillow, a momma warthog leading her three babies through camp, and two lions stalking giraffes.

My first Christmas as a 30-something, single mom, I bought the last

dehydrated tree on the Christmas tree lot with money budgeted to pay utilities. Most of the dead needles fell off in my car before the tree ar-rived at my HUD apartment. Any remaining sharp, dried needles embed-ded themselves in the carpet, stabbing any bare foot that dared cross their path. My most precious memory of that Christmas with the denuded pine? My four year old recounting the Christmas story using paper pup-pets glued to wooden Popsicle sticks, as his baby brother hopped and cartwheeled around the room for our attention.

In time, my self-focus turned from my poverty of spirit and finances to others less fortunate than my little family. My sons and I enjoyed filling shoeboxes for Samaritan’s Purse to send to needy children living in third world countries. One year, we decided that instead of buying for our-selves, we would spend our money on presents for a truly impoverished family. The boys excitedly scampered around Sears choosing every gift on that family’s wish list. Together, we wrapped and then delivered a five-dollar turkey and the presents to the most empty home and refrigera-tor, I’ve ever seen in the United States. My most precious memory of that Christmas with fewer gifts under our tree? The pure delight on my sons’ faces as they played Santa Claus, in the name of Jesus, to a single mom and her children.

Unconsciously, I’d passed on the greatest tradition my parents modeled — the joy of sharing from an abundant heart. What no-cost, low-cost tradition can you begin this year? Propelled into single parenthood with a four-year-old son and a nine-

month-old son, a proud Gold Star mom, Scoti helps solo parents face

their fears with courage to embrace new life. She’s been published in

The New York Times, Southwest Art, Family Life Today, and other par-

enting magazines. © 2013 Scoti Springfield Domeij. All rights reserved.

Solo Parenting Make a Memory


H ow did counting the days until Christmas come so soon? When not long ago, we were carving pumpkins with the kids, and just

weeks ago, stuffing the Thanksgiving turkey. How will your family celebrate Christmas this year? Will you celebrate the commercial version of Christmas, which results in adding the omen of debt as a New Year’s resolution? NOT.

For me, Christmas was all about the senses. Like the smell of pine from the Christmas tree, or the sight of mom in the kitchen baking cakes, and glazing the ham, while listening to Christmas songs play-ing on the stereo. You remember hearing the “old school” ones, like the Temptations, “Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer”, “Silver Bells”, or even “All I want for Christmas is You”. And, you know it wouldn’t be Christmas until you heard, “I saw Mama kissing Santa Claus”! Then just wait, here it comes… the final sense, with the touch of her hands as I’m tucked into bed while she’s softly singing “You better watch out, You better not cry, Better not pout, I'm telling you why: Santa Claus is coming to town….. Good night sweetie”. Hmmmm…Now that’s the Christmas I’m talking about! Remember your childhood Christmas experiences, and then picture what this Christmas will be like for your family. How do you plan to make it memorable? Below are a few more ideas from my child-hood that are sure to bring the spirit of Christmas to life:

• Make the Christmas tree less formal by personalizing it with pop-corn garland and candy canes.

• Invite friends over for Christmas dinner that otherwise would be spending Christmas alone.

• Be a secret Santa to a family in need by making a Christmas bas-ket and leaving it on their doorstep.

• Ensure fresh eggnog and apple cider is in the fridge throughout the month of December.

• Play Christmas music in the background starting Christmas Eve through Christmas day.

• Open 1 gift on Christmas Eve night from under the tree.

• Attend a Christmas Eve play to further heighten the spirit of Christmas.

• Log on periodically to the NORAD website to track Santa’s loca-tion. http://www.noradsanta.org/

• Skype loved ones on Christmas day.

• Remember the true meaning of Christmas by sharing the Nativity of Jesus.

My mom always told me that Christmas isn’t only about presents, but rather by enjoying the presence of others. From the experiences I’ve shared, I’ve finally realized the best way to keep the spirit of Christmas alive is to talk about it. The only way to do that is to make it memorable. Here’s wishing you and yours a memorable and Very Merry Christmas.

Bargain Central By Debbie Neal


The Spirit of Christmas

VillaSport Athletic Club and Spa 5904 Prairie Schooner Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80923

719-522-1221 www.villasport.com

H ave your next party at VillaSport!. Leave the preparation and entertainment to us and watch your special day unfold. Whatever the occasion, we’ve got you covered. With party

themes ranging from a private spa day filled with manicures, pedicures, and facials, to sports-themed bashes on our NBA-sized professional court, to private movie showings on our \ huge inflatable screen, why would you want to have your party any-where else? Celebrate with a fun and sophisticated Tea Party. Our characters will meet your guests and take them on a journey of tea time and activities. Choose a Pretty Princess or Alice in Wwonderland theme. Make your own delicious creations with our VillaChef Party. Guests will roll out their own pizza dough and make per-sonal pizzas with their favorite toppings. Have a winter birth-day? No problem! Make your party a splash with swimming and water activities in our amazing indoor or outdoor pools.

VillaSport parties include 2 hours of jammed packed fun for the kids (and you) hosted in a state-of-the-art facility with resort-like amenities. The friendly staff is ready to make your child’s dream a reality and take the stress of planning away from you. It’s an important day, and our goal is to exceed your expectations and delight the kids. VillaSport offers decorations, activities, a catering menu, and more. It’s a one stopone-stop shop for your kid’s big day! Make your party the talk of the town and book now at VillaSport Athletic Club and Spa.

Birthday Party Pick



Knowledge is Power! Reading is Fun!

R eading aloud to younger and older children helps build their listening vocabulary. The more words children hear the more words they will recognize when they begin learning to read.

The holidays are a wonderful time to slow life down and snuggle up with your children while you both enjoy some great books together. Here are a couple of new books that might fit the bill. A Kiss Means I Love You by Kathryn Madeline Allen. Here is a wonderful book for children and parents to use any time of day, but most especially at bedtime when you have time to cuddle together with a good book that you can enjoy and discuss. “A roar! means I’m scary, A reach means let’s share! A clap means I like it, a hug means I care.” Beautiful close-up photographs of children’s faces add lots of charm to the rhymed text. This book is a wonderful read for ages 1-5. Laura Numeroff and Lynn Munsinger have another winner on their hand with Nighty-

Night, Cooper, a wonderful story about a little Kangaroo getting ready to go to bed. His mother sings him songs that parents and little ones will love to share together. The familiar tunes and new words will have everyone smil-

ing and snuggling just a little bit extra at bedtime. This book is per-fect for children ages 2-5. Big Bear gave his wonderful little red boat to Little Bear and now he is building a new boat “…just like my little boat, but bigger.” With the help of his friends at the lake, he finishes his boat off with a mast, a deck and a cabin. But, nothing seems quite right. He wanted to build his dream boat, but every-thing looks higgledy-piggledy. What will Big Bear do now? Read Big Bear’s Big Boat by Eve Bunting to find out. For ages 3 and up. Waiting for the first big snow of the season can be so hard. In The Big Snow by Jonathan Bean, David’s mom helps him pass the time until the big snow happens. They make cookies, they clean the bathroom together, change the sheets and David takes a nap. Finally, there is enough snow to play in when Dad gets home from work! The beautiful pictures in this book will give parents and kids lots to talk about and leave them anticipating the next big snow here in Colorado Springs! This is a fun book for all ages. It seems Mr. Mineo's one-legged pigeon has been missing for quite a few days and he's worried. This same bird has affected the lives of best friends Stella (who wants to keep the pigeon as a pet) and Gerald (who is a little frustrated that he can't say NO to Stella). Levi and his scabby-kneed, germ-infested friends also want to get their hand on this pigeon. And then there's the little brown dog and Amos and Ethel who can't stop arguing about the bird or the dog. What's a pigeon to do? You'll be caught up in Barbara O'Connor's On the Road to Mr. Mineo’s from the very first page. This book is a sure-fire read aloud for children in grades 4-6 with lots of humor and great writing. We have plenty of free Family Fun Holiday activities at Pikes Peak Library District during the month of December. Don’t forget to check the library calendar at www.ppld.org for activities such as Mrs. Claus Holiday Stories, Cookie Decorating, a Fairy Winter Wonderland and Robotics at the Monument Library. Come on in and enjoy free programs at your library!

A Look at Books Barbara Huff

Penrose Library Pikes Peak Library District


T his is a website where kids can learn about what's going on in the news, week by week. Claudia Heitler, whose journalism work has included a stint as a Today Show producer, began by relaying

news to her children during bath time; hosting a monthly news discus-sion in her son's second-grade class; and, eventually, launching this site in 2010. Designed for kids in elementary school and up, it posts weekly updates in categories like health, politics, science, sports, U.S. news, and historical events. Kids also get a chance to voice an opinion by respond-ing to polls and submitting questions for interviews.

The website provides background on select current events and other topics. The articles are written in a kid-friendly, excited tone, and in-clude photos and diagrams to help kids digest the information. The site is good at handling difficult stories, like the Boston Marathon bomb-ing; instead of focusing on the harsh details, articles report the facts and include some positive affirmations about kids still being generally safe and about commendable rescue efforts. Items that center on kids who have achieved admirable goals also provide a dose of inspiration. Kids won't find endless amounts of content. Approximately two stories are posted each week, but they'll read interesting articles they can under-stand, which can ultimately encourage them to be aware of and appre-ciate the world around them.

Kids have to enter an email address and name when posting com-ments. If they're under 13, they're asked to submit a parent's email address. According to the site's privacy policy, it only collects non-personal information, such as a first name and an email address, if the user submits a comment or question. It's a nice introduction to

keeping on top of what's going on in the world; though the site does-n't sugarcoat real news stories, it does offer gently positive view-points and answers questions alarmed kids may have. Kids can practice reading, think critically, form opinions, and ask questions. Sections cover history, science, health, politics, and U.S. news and inform kids about the world around them. Kids won't find many activities to help them build on what they learn. The website contains interesting, kid-customized content, but it could benefit from more items designed to help kids process information.

Family Website Pick


Here There Everywhere http://htekidsnews.com

D ear Greg,

Christmas is coming, and the very thought of it makes me tired. In fact, more tired every year. Somehow, our family has fallen into a pattern of constantly trying to “top” the last holiday season. My kids seem to expect something bigger and better each time, and it’s up to me to figure out the details. Frankly, I don’t have the energy to make it happen this year. Can you help me out?

Marsha

D ear Marsha,

You’re not alone. There are plenty of us – myself included – who know exactly what you’re talking about. It seems our culture is trending away from the simple and towards the extravagant in al-most every area of life. Big birthday parties, theatrical marriage proposals, grandiose weddings, and hyper-spectacular events of all kinds have become the norm. Christmas is no exception. Here’s the problem. If you’re required to “up the ante” with each successive celebration, it will not be long before feelings far more toxic than mere fatigue begin to set in. As December approaches, you may find yourself staggering under a load of dread and resent-ment. I want to suggest that there’s a better way.

You can enrich your family’s experience of the Christmas season by learning how to maximize everyday moments. It’s a principle I’ve often applied to the challenge of building a stronger marriage, and I believe it can be used to lessen holiday stress and strain as well. Here’s how it works. Instead of attempting to stage the Celebration to End All Celebra-

tions, try introducing a gentle awareness of Christmas into the little things you do each day during December. For instance, instead of greeting your family with a “Good morning” at the breakfast table, say something like, “One day closer to Christmas!” Keep a batch of holiday cookies on hand and pack one or two in each child’s lunch when you send them off to school. Get your ornaments down from the attic early and involve everyone in sorting them out. Put up one new decoration every day from your assortment of family favorites. Play Christmas music at mealtimes or before bed. Take advantage of small opportunities to share Christmas memories or talk about what the holiday season means to you. When your spouse and chil-dren come home in the afternoon, make a “big deal” of these daily family reunions. Come up with creative ways to give them a Yule-tide twist. Get an Advent Calendar and count down the days to Christmas together. (Focus on the Family is offering a free AD-VENTures in Odyssey Activity Calendar for the 2013 holiday sea-son at www.whitsend.org/advent). None of these small changes requires a big outlay of money or de-mand a lot of time. It’s just a matter of developing a new way of

seeing. It’s a question of thinking of simple ways to take everyday family activities and turn them into memorable holiday moments. Try it and I guarantee you’ll like it! In fact, you may never have a big holiday “blowout” again! Dr. Greg Smalley serves as Vice President of Family Ministries at

Focus on the Family. In this role, he develops and oversees initiatives

that prepare individuals for marriage, strengthen and nurture existing

marriages and equip parents to raise healthy kids. He also hosts

a nationally syndicated radio program, Everyday Relationships. Prior

to joining Focus, Smalley worked for the Center for Relationship En-

richment at John Brown University and as President of the National

Institute of Marriage. He is the author of twelve books, including

“Fight Your Way to a Better Marriage, The DNA of Relationships and

The Wholehearted Marriage. Smalley and his wife, Erin, live in Colo-

rado Springs with their four children.

Copyright © 2013 Focus on the Family, Colorado Springs, CO

80995. All rights reserved. International copyright secured.

Focus On Your Child


Documents

a calendar of local events COLORADO SPRINGS Kids Magazine - December … · FREE! a calendar of local events COLORADO SPRINGS DECEMBER volume 13, issue 5 Monthly “ToMonthly “To-