Wednesday, February 8, 2012

What to do in February....

"4 X 4 + 1" Presented by Old Library Theatre February 10-12, 2012. Friday & Saturday evenings at 8pm and Sunday at 2pm. For info and ticket sales: 201-797-3553 or www.oldlibrarytheatre.net. The Fair Lawn Community Center/George Frey Center for Arts and Recreation, 10-10 20th St, Fair Lawn, NJ For more info, please call 201-541-1200, ext 102 or visit www.fgskcc.org 02/10/12-02/12/2012 WC

VALENTINES DOO-WOP SPECTACULAR at bergenPAC Saturday, February 11, 2012 at 8pm. Tickets: $65, $63, $58, $48, $35. At Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 Van Brunt St, Englewood. Call for tickets at 201-227-1030 or log on to www.bergenpac.org. 02/11/12 WC/ALD/PT

ART", A COMEDY PERFORMED BY THE THEATRE GROUP By Yasmina Reza, performed by The Company Theatre group, Inc., February 11, 12, 18, & 19, 1012. Saturdays @ 7:30pm, Sundays 3:30pm. Doors open 1/2 hour before the show. Please see the website for ticket prices. Location of performance: Hackensack Cultural Arts Center, 39 Broadway, Hackensack. For more info, see the website at: www.theatrecompany.biz. 02/11/12-02/19/2012 WC

PALISADES INTERSTATE PARK - Southern Palisades 10 am, Sat., Feb.25 Guided Hike. Meet at Fort Lee Historic Park. (Hudson Terr. Just south of the GW Bridge) About 5 mi., 2.5 hrs., easy. Free. 201-768-1360 ext. 110. www.njpalisades.org/calendar.htm 02/25/12

DR DUBIOUS DIXIELAND BAND at MAHWAH LIBRARY Sunday, Feb 19, 2012 at 2pm. Celebrate Mardi Gras in the New Orleans and Chicago styles. FREE. First Come First serve seating basis. Part of the Mahwah Library Centennial Celebration program. Mahwah Public Library, 100 Ridge Rd., Mahwah, NJ. For more info please call 201-529-READ, or go to http://mahwah.bccls.org 02/19/12 WC

PALISADES INTERSTATE PARK - Hikes for Dogs: Alpine Cliff Top. 10 am, Sun., Feb. 26 Guided hike for dogs & their owners. Meet at Park headquarters (PIP Exit 2) About 3 mi., 1.5 hr.; easy. Dogs must be leashed. Free. 201-768-1360 ext. 110. www.njpalisades.org/calendar.htm 02/26/12

PALISADES INTERSTATE PARK - Children’s Winter Nature Walk 2 pm, Sat., Feb. 26 Guided hike. Meet at State Line Lookout. (Northbound PIP opposite Exit 3) About 1.5 mi., 1 hr.; easy. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free. 201-768-1360 ext. 110. www.njpalisades.org/calendar.htm 02/26/12

THE HERMITAGE ROUNDTABLE - Leap Day Celebration!. Free. 7:30pm, Wed., Feb. 29. 335 North Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-445-8311; www.thehermitage.org 02/29/12 WC

"Hip-Hop Intelligence" at the Englewood Library Wednesday, February 29th, 2012 at 7:30pm. In conjunction with Black History Month, learn about the history of Hip-Hop culture from Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Hip-Hop pioneer, Grandmaster Melle Mel. Also includes Wayne & Charlie (The Rapping Dummy), Verbal Artisan and videos by SamLee TV. Located at the Englewood Public Library, 31 Engle St, Englewood. For more info, please call Samuel Lee Jr. at 551-221-7950. 02/29/12 WC/PT

Friday, January 13, 2012

What Does Your Child's Name Say About You???

By Parents.com

By Parents.com | Moments Of Motherhood – Mon, Jan 9, 2012 5:04 PM EST

Babies start off with a clean slate, so what you choose for your little one reveals more about your personality than theirs.

By Linda DiProperzio

Choosing your child's name is a big decision--after all, he'll be walking around with it for the rest of his life. And according to Laura Wattenberg, author of The Baby Name Wizard, when a child is born, the name reflects more on you than him. "The name doesn't belong to you--you're making the decision because your child can't do it for himself--but what you choose does say a lot about your personality."

But as your child gets older, the name will also reflect on him--especially when he's doing things like sending out job resumes. "People do draw conclusions based on someone's name," says Wattenberg. "It sends out such a strong signal before the person even walks into the room."

So how do you make sure you choose wisely? "When deciding on a name, you want to see it from the child's point of view and how she or he will have to live with it throughout their lives," says Jennifer Moss, author of The One-in-a-Million Baby Name Book and founder of BabyNames.com. "Try the name out at your local coffee shop. How do you feel giving that as your name? What kind of reaction do you get and how does it make you feel?"

Check out our rundown of what your top picks say about your personality.

If your child has an unusual name, you crave the spotlight.
Celeb Baby Names: Apple (Gwyneth Paltrow), Pilot Inspektor (Jason Lee), Kal-El (Nicolas Cage)

Over the past few years, more and more parents (and not just celebrities) are choosing offbeat monikers for their little ones--and don't expect that trend to end anytime soon, says Wattenberg. "There is a revolution going on when it comes to baby names, and for some parents, the more unusual, the better." Wattenberg has seen such names as Zeppelin (as in Led Zeppelin), Anakin (as in Skywalker), Lucifer (as in, you know) and Mystique (like the character from X Men) handed out to babies. "Past generations worried more about their child fitting in, but today's parents want their kids to stand out. And some are in a race to be more distinctive than the next."

For parents who choose such names, it's a possible combination of being a creative person (like actors and musicians) and liking the attention that the name gives not only to their child, but to them for choosing it. "When you tell people your child's name, it will lead to a lot of questions--they'll want to know the back story," says Maryannna Korwitts, founder of TheBabyNamingExperience.com. "So it does put the parents in the spotlight."

In fact, these parents often have ordinary names and probably found themselves being one of four kids with their name in school. They don't want their child to experience the same thing--they want him to be noticed.

If your child has an old-fashioned name, you're on the conservative side.
Celeb baby names: Agnes (Jennifer Connelly), Homer (Richard Gere), Tabitha (Sarah Jessica Parker)

Don't mistake conservative for boring, says Moss. Choosing an old-fashioned name is also on trend right now, so it's a way to be in fashion without going over the top. "The three-generation rule comes into effect here," says Wattenberg. "For parents, their own names sound boring, the baby's grandparents' names are old, but the great-grandparents' names go far enough back that they actually sound fresh again. This is why names like Emma, Amelia, Jacob, and Lillian came back into popularity."

"These names stand apart from the pack, but they're not made up and they don't sound weird to others," says Korwitts. "Although names like Ava and Emily are in the Top 10, most of the old-fashioned names are not used on a regular basis, so the child is standing out. They're trendy, but in a safe way."

If you choose a creative spelling, you dare to be different.
Celeb baby names: Ryder (Kate Hudson), Rocko (Johnny Knoxville), Zowie (David Bowie and Iman)

Many parents are taking a traditional name and putting their own spin on it by changing the spelling. "In an effort to be different and make their kids special from the very beginning, we see a lot of names with a multitude of spellings," says Candace Alper, creator of Name Your Tune, personalized CDs for children that feature the child's name throughout much-loved kids' tunes. "We see extra vowels, silent H's, and Y's where there would traditionally be an "I" or an "E" (think Aayden, Khate, Rhyan).

But this technique can backfire, says Moss. "I've heard parents say they want a unique name, but not something so wild that the kid will be made fun of, so they think this is a good alternative," she explains. "But you're actually burdening your child with having to spell her name for people the rest of her life." When it comes to using a different spelling, it's best to be cautious. It's one thing to decide whether to spell Alison with one L or two, but choosing a spelling like Allysynn will likely just lead to confusion for others and possible embarrassment for your child. "It's a way of bringing attention to the child and her name, but not necessarily in a good way," says Korwitts. "And when you drastically change the spelling of a name, you're interfering with its energy."

If you choose a family name, you're sentimental.
Celeb baby names: Charlie (Rebecca Romijn and Jerry O'Connell's daughter is named after his brother), Vivienne Marcheline (Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's daughter shares her middle name with her maternal grandmother), Ava (Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Phillippe's daughter is named after his grandmother).

"This name has a more personal story behind it, so it's not as flashy as naming your child after your favorite car or rock star," says Wattenberg. "If it's a traditional name, people aren't going to ask you about it, so they won't know it's a family name unless you tell them. That could be why these types of names have lost some steam in recent years."

But she's quick to point out that you can be creative while also honoring a beloved family member. She points to Will and Jada Smith's kids as examples: son Jaden was named for his mom; daughter Willow is a play on her dad's name. "You can easily put a twist on a traditional name and give it a more modern flair, like naming your son Donovan after your grandfather, Donald," says Wattenberg. "People are also using family surnames as first or middle names and that's a great alternative because it allows you to honor a whole branch of a family tree instead of just one person," says Moss. "My daughter's name, Miranda, is her grandmother's maiden name. We were lucky that it was also a beautiful first name."

A pop culture name means you're looking for a confidence boost.
Celeb baby names: Monroe (Mariah Carey), Lennon (Liam Gallagher), Bardot (David Boreanez)

The names Bella and Edward have been moving up the ranks with the success of Twilight, and even celebrities use their child's first name to honor a favorite star: Mariah Carey recently named her daughter Monroe after Marilyn, Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher named his son Lennon after John, and Rebecca Romijn and Jerry O'Connell's daughter Dolly is named after mom's favorite singer, Dolly Parton.

"I suspect that many who name their child after a celebrity are speaking to their own desire for optimal fame," says Korwitts. "For instance, Mariah Carey has struggled a great deal during her career with her self-image, etc. No doubt in her mind she has held favorites stars of the past in high esteem, so in naming her daughter Monroe, she is paying homage to that admiration." What's especially interesting, notes Korwitts, is that Mariah didn't opt for the first name--she chose the surname as a first name, which speaks even more to the particular celebrity. "To have chosen Marilyn would have meant very little," she says. "She needed to make a public statement with her children's names."

These are also celebrity watchers who name their babies either after celebrities or after the names that celebrities have given their babies. "We've seen more babies named Shiloh (Angelina Jolie) and Coco (Courteney Cox)," says Alper.

If you name your child after a destination, you're adventurous.
Celeb baby names: Egypt (Alicia Keys), Memphis (Bono), Brooklyn (Victoria and David Beckham)

These names often have a lot of meaning for parents, says Korwitts. "It can be where they met, spent their honeymoon, or even where the child was conceived. And this is their way of making sure their baby is given a bit of that particular place's personality."

These names also send out a signal to others that the parents are worldly travelers. After all, if you name your little one London, people are going to ask (or simply assume) that you've spent some time there. So the name serves as a way to show off some of your personal adventures while also giving your child an exotic and unusual name.

If you go with a unisex name, you focus on success.
Celeb baby names: Harlow (Nicole Ritchie and Joel Madden; girl), Kelley (Holly Marie Combs; boy), Mason (Kourtney Kardashian; boy; and Kelsey Grammar; girl)

A couple recently made headlines when they named their baby Storm, and then decided they weren't going to divulge the child's sex to family and friends after it was born. This is an extreme case, but names like Dakota, Riley, and Avery are choices for parents who want to give their child a strong but gender-neutral name.

"Many parents of girls do this because they think it will give her an advantage later on in life," says Korwitts. "Those names have a more assertive, aggressive quality they feel will make her more successful as she grows up."

But unisex names can have the opposite effect in the technology age. "People are communicating more and more over email and the Internet, and others can't tell whether they're talking to a man or a woman," explains Korwitts. "Many people with unisex names eventually alter it so that it's clear which gender they are."

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

What to do in January....

Happy New Year! Here's a list of things to do in the area to kick off 2012!!!

The Hurdy Gurdy Folk Music Club Saturday, January 7, 2012 at 8pm. Co-bill featuring Spuyten Duyvil and Hungrytown. Tickets: $15 ($12 members). Presented by the Hurdy Gurdy Folk Music Club. The Fair Lawn Community Center is located at 10-10 20th St in Fair Lawn, NJ. Info at www.hurdygurdyfolk.org or call 201-384-1325 For more info, please call 201-541-1200, ext 102 or visit www.fgskcc.org 01/07/12 WC

PALISADES INTERSTATE PARK Hike for Dogs: Southern Riverfront. 10 am, Sat., Jan. 7 Guided hike for dogs & their owners. Meet at Ross Dock Picnic Area on the Hudson R., Fort Lee. (PIP Exit 1 or via southern park entrance at Fort Lee/Edgewater border) About 2 mi., 1 hr. easy. Dogs must be leashed. Free. 201-768-1360 ext. 110. www.njpalisades.org/calendar.htm 01/07/12

PALISADES INTERSTATE PARK Children’s Hike: The Women’s Monument. 2 pm, Sat., Jan. 7 Guided hike. Meet at State Line Lookout. (Northbound PIP opposite Exit 3) About 2 mi., 1.5 hr. easy with mod. slopes. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free. 201-768-1360 ext. 110. www.njpalisades.org/calendar.htm 01/07/12

PALISADES INTERSTATE PARK Forest View Hike. 10 am, Sun., Jan. 8 Guided hike. Meet at State Line Lookout. (Northbound PIP opposite Exit 3) About 7 mi., 3.5 hr. moderate with challenging slopes. Free. 201-768-1360 ext. 110. www.njpalisades.org/calendar.htm 01/08/12

PALISADES INTERSTATE PARK Millionaires’ Row. 1 pm, Sun., Jan. 8 History hike with Eric nelsen. Meet at Park Headquarters, Alpine (PIP Exit 2) About 3 mi., 2 hrs. easy. Free. 201-768-1360 ext. 108. www.njpalisades.org/calendar.htm 01/08/12

MCDOWELL OBSERVATORY, MEADOWLANDS ENVIRONMENT CENTER Let’s Talk Astronomy: From Stonehenge to Newton - Development of Modern Astronomy 7-9 pm, Tuesdays, Jan., 10, 17, 24. For interested adults & upper level hisgh school students. Time in Observatory weather permitting. Pre-reg. req’d. $15 each, members free. 3 DeKorte Park Plaza, Lyndhurst; 201-460-8300; observatory@njmeadowlands.gov; http://www.rst2.edu/meadowlands/marshaccess/Observatory-letstalkastronomy.html 01/10/12-01/24/2012

Dance Designs- Winter Dance Concert Saturday, Jan 21, 2012. Please call 201-791-8873 for info and ticket sales. The Fair Lawn Community Center is located at 10-10 20th St in Fair Lawn, NJ. Info at www.hurdygurdyfolk.org or call 201-384-1325 01/21/12 WC

"TCC Goes Wii" THE TEANECK COMMUNITY CHORUS Sunday, January 22, 2012 at 3pm. Recent THS alumnus and gaming expert, Daniel Seraphin, has acted as the contemporary music/animated movies/cartoon and video game consultant to Director Steven Bell. Visuals of games and movies will be incorporated via video. Tickets at door: Adults- $17, Seniors- $14, Students- $5. In advance: $15, $12, $5. Location: Teaneck H.S. Auditorium, Elizabeth Ave, Teaneck. For more info please go to: teaneckcommunitychorus.org or call: 201-836-8623. 01/22/12 WC/SLI/LP

CHINESE THEATRE WORKS "DANCE & MAGIC FROM CHINA" Sunday, January 22, 2012 at 2pm. Celebrating the Chinese New Year. FREE. First Come First serve seating basis. Part of the Mahwah Library Centennial Celebration program. Mahwah Public Library, 100 Ridge Rd., Mahwah, NJ. For more info please call 201-529-READ, or go to http://mahwah.bccls.org 01/22/12 WC

CASEY CARLE'S BUBBLEMANIA at bergenPAC Sunday, January 29, 2012 at 1pm & 3pm. Tickets: $17 (Buy 3 Kidz Cabaret shows tickets for $36. At Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 Van Brunt St, Englewood. Call for tickets at 201-227-1030 or log on to www.bergenpac.org. 01/29/12 WC/ALD/PT

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Another Great Phone Offer : )

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Sprint for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

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Sunday, December 4, 2011

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Thursday, December 1, 2011

Tons To Do This Month....

Holiday Light Spectacular
Saturdays and Sundays, November 25, 2011 to January 31, 2012, 5-9pm.
Turtle Back Zoo
560 Northfield Ave
West Orange, NJ
973-731-5800
Holiday displays light the zoo. Call ahead for additional days during the week and fpr information.

Festival of Trees
November 25, 26, 27 & December 2, 3, 4, 2011
Red Mill Museum Village
Clinton, NJ
908-735-4101
This years' Festival of Trees begins with hot cider, music, lights and ornaments galore and showcases a collection of beautifully decorated Christmas trees and wreaths and is a wonderful kick-off to the holiday season. Trees and wreaths decorated by local individuals, organizations and businesses will be on display and up for auction in the Red Mill during Dickens's Days in Clinton.

A Scandinavian Christmas Dance
Saturday, November 26, 2011
5:00 p.m.
Viking Hall
Vasa Park
Budd Lake, NJ
This is a family event that features a night of wood floor Dancing around the lit Christmas tree with live music provided by Jeanne Widman Anderson and Smorgasbandet.
Semi-formal evening which includes: full course fresh ham dinner, Swedish meatballs, home baked Scandinavian desserts and pastries, and other traditional specialties. Candle-lit ceremony and pageant of Sankta Lucia, performed by the local children (all who attend are invited in the candle lit singing of silent night). A special visit from Santa for the children. Cocktail hour begins at 5:00 p.m. with Jul Glogg and cash bar. For information, contact Kristin Baker at 973.691.8637 Reservations
Seating is limited Adults $37.50; 17 and under $15.00; 12 and under $10.00; 5 and under free Make checks payable to "Sommardans" and mail to: Kristin Baker, 56 Scandia Road, Hackettstown, NJ 07840 Visit us at www.juldans.org or email us at groething822@comcast.net

Holiday Open House
December 3, 4, 10, and 11, 2011
Craftsman Farms
2352 Route 10 West
Morris Plains, NJ
973-540-0311
This holiday event will feature beautiful period decorations festooning the Log House and hot cider and cookies on the porch. With cranberry stringing in the girl's bedroom ad the dining room sideboard set for guests, the Open House will give you a "peek" into the holiday preparations typical for families in the early 1900s.

Chester Tree Lighting
December 4, 2011, 6 p.m
At the Gazebo
Chester, NJ
thechestergardenclub@gmail.com
They organize Santa's pre-Christmas trip to Chester on the 1st Friday of December. The high school band plays carols while they serve cookies and hot drinks to the community waiting for Santa to arrive on a Chester fire engine.

Christmas with Dickens & Dylan
Thursday to Sunday, December 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17 and 18, 2011
West Side Theatre at New Jersey City University
285 West Side Avenue
Jersey City, NJ
201-200-2390
Tickets: $30; $15 seniors, $10 students. Discounts available with mention of notice.

The Sound of Christmas with Elizabeth Von Trap & the Empire Bass
Saturday Dec 10, 2011 at 8:00PM
Bergen Performing Arts Center
Englewood, New Jersey

Christmas In Harmony: Wilson Phillips
Saturday Dec 10, 2011 at 8:00PM
Community Theatre At Mayo Center For The Performing Arts
Morristown, New Jersey

A Christmas Carol
Sunday Dec 18, 2011 at 4:00PM
Bergen Performing Arts Center
Englewood, New Jersey

Whippany Railway Museum's SANTA CLAUS SPECIAL Excursion TrainsThe Santa Claus Special departs the Whippany station on:Sunday, December 4 Saturday, December 10 Sunday, December 11 Saturday, December 17 Sunday, December 18, 2011
(973) 887-8177
The 10-mile, 45-minute round trip excursion from Whippany to Roseland and return allows riders time to enjoy the Spirit of the Season and the merriment on the train. All of our past trips over the last 20 years have been virtual sell-outs, and seeing the excited faces of the children as they climb aboard the Christmas Holiday-decorated trains, ensures an afternoon of Family Fun. During each excursion, Santa makes his way through the train and visits with every child onboard. Santa's helpers follow along, giving the kids a special gift from Santa. Be sure to bring your camera and take pictures of the kids with Santa, so they can always remember their day onboard the train! order tickets on line at https://www.dynamicticketsolutions.com/wrym/ Any available walk up tickets go on sale at the Museum ticket office each operating day at 12 Noon.

Christmas Festival at the Morristown Green
Friday, November 25, to Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Morristown, NJ
973-455-1133
Downtown lights up with awesome color and holiday spirit during the Christmas season. Free to the Public

The North Pole Express Flemington, NJ
info@brrht.org
This is an exciting holiday fun family train ride to North Pole Station to visit Santa and Mrs Claus! Enjoy hot cocoa and cookies, singing along with the elves, a chance to tell Santa your Christmas wish, and much more. This is a special experience that the entire family won't forget. The train operates rain or shine. The North Pole Express runs as listed: All trains depart Flemington Station and operate round-trip. Allow approximately two hours for your trip. Friday Nov 25: 1:00 PM, 3:30 PM, 6:00 PM Saturday Nov 26: 1:00 PM, 3:30 PM, 6:00 PM Saturday Dec 3: 1:00 PM, 3:30 PM, 6:00 PM Saturday Dec 10: 1:00 PM, 3:30 PM, 6:00 PM Saturday Dec 17: 1:00 PM, 3:30 PM, 6:00 PM

The Snowflake Parade
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Millburn, NJ
973-379-2341
Along Millburn Avenue from Holmes to Spring Streets Professional bands, clowns, marching bands and Santa arriving on Millburn Fire Truck Free Refreshments in The Courtyard (behind Dunkin Donuts) where Santa will pose for pictures. Rain Date is Sunday, December 11.

Holiday Season Craft-Making Activities
The month of December, 2011
Liberty Hall Museum
Kean University
1003 Morris Ave.
(908) 527-0400
www.kean.edu/libertyhall
The month of December will feature a number seasonal activities, including: a Gingerbread House Workshop on Saturdays, Dec. 3 and 10, at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. where families can decorate their own gingerbread house.
A Christmas ornament workshop, Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. where will build four old-fashioned decorations, two to bring home and two to be hung on the museum's Christmas tree.
Christmas Afternoon Teas will be held in the museum's glass-enclosed porch on Dec. 7, 14, 21 and 28 from 2 to 4 p.m. Reservations are required.
The Whoville Feast, set for 11:30 a.m. on Dec. 11, will feature "Roast Beast on a Bun," "Seuss Spuds" and "Cindy Lou Who Cider."
Dec. 18 from 10 a.m. to noon, the museum will host its annual Breakfast with Santa.

Central Jersey 2011 NJ Christmas Events
Princeton Tree Lighting Ceremony
Friday, November 25, 2011 at 4:45pm
On the Green
Downtown
Princeton
This family event will feature live music and a reading of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. The tree will be a 65-foot Norwegian spruce decorated over 32,000 lights. North Jersey 2010 NJ Christmas Events

Holiday Express Concert & Town Lighting
Friday, November 25, 2011, 7pm
Broad -Canal Streets
Red Bank, NJ
732-741-9211
Rock 'n Roll with Holiday Express in concert and see the town of Red Bank light up for the holidays!

Lights On! Weekend of Winter Wonders
Grounds For Sculpture
18 Fairgrounds Road
Hamilton, NJ
(609) 586-0616
Beginning the weekend of November 26th and 27th, 2011 and throughout December and January, at sundown the switch is flipped and the entire park comes ablaze with approximately 70,000 twinkling lights. Park hours will be extended on Fridays and Saturdays to 9pm so you can experience the wonderland of lights. Rain or shine!

Asbury Park Tree Lighting Ceremony and Roller Derby
Saturday, November 26, 2011; 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
Grand Arcade
1300 Ocean Avenue
Asbury Park, NJ
Contact: Angie Sugrim, Phone: 732-897-6500
A huge 30 foot tree tree will be lit with the help of Asbury Park Mayor Ed Johnson and the Jersey Shore Roller Girls. The event will also feature The 10 piece Bobby Bertelsen Band and of course, Santa Claus will be there too. Following the tree lighting, the Jersey Shore Roller Girls will compete in the Championship Game at Convention Hall.

Red Bank Classic Horse and Carriage RidesSaturday, November 26, and Saturdays and Sundays, December 3,4, 10,11, 17,18, 2011 from 1pm to 5pm
Red Bank Business District
Red Bank, NJ
(732) 842-4244
Ride through the Red Bank Business District and enjoy the sounds & sights of the holiday season. 2 Locations: Bridge Avenue (across from The Galleria) and 26 Broad Street (Murphy Style Grill) FREE.

Pier Village- Long Branch Tree Light and McLoone Concert
Sunday, November 27, 2011, 6pm – 10pm

Spring Lake Candlelight Christmas Inn Tour
Saturday, December 3, 2011; Tour is from 3:30 - 7:00 with a Tea Party from 2:30 to 3:30.
Discover Spring Lakes charming inns and B & B's decorated in Holiday theme. Tickets $25. Stay at a participating Historic Inn and they will provide your tickets ($50 value). For tickets and information, call 732-449-0577 or 732-859-1465

Christmas at Allaire
Saturday December 3 and Sunday December 4, 2011
Allaire Village
Route 524 / Allaire Rd.
Farmingdale, NJ
Throughout the weekend long event there will be carolers wandering the streets of the Historic Village, setting the proper holiday mood, while special programs at the Historic Christ Church will feature period music, both vocal and instrumental. Visitors to the Historic Village can go to see our annual display of Christmas Trees Through the Ages featuring a Tree of Paradise, a Pyramid Tree and many more. Exhibits are held at the at the Enameling Building Exhibition Hall and a $1.00 minimum donation is suggested.
12 PM – 3:30 PM Admission $6 for Adults; $4 Children 5 - 14 Horse and Wagon Rides; Additional $7.50 for Adults and $5 Children Under 12. Tickets are available at the gate, by mail or phone by calling (732) 919 - 3500.

Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra and the Pied Pipers in A Christmas Gift
Sunday, December 4, 2011 at 3pm
State Theatre
New Brunswick, NJ
Featuring both old and new holiday songs in the style and tradition of the big band era.

A Winnie the Pooh Christmas Carol
Tuesday, December 6, 2011, 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Pollak Theatre
Monmouth University
400 Cedar Avenue
West Long Branch, New Jersey 07764
732-571-3400
A Winnie the Pooh Christmas Carol A Winnie the Pooh Christmas Carol Come with us as Winnie-the-Pooh, who portrays the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, visits Rabbineezer Scrooge and takes him on a journey that changes him forever in this twist on the Charles Dickens classic holiday story.

Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour 2011
Wednesday, December 7, 2011 at 8pm
State Theatre
New Brunswick, NJ
Featuring hits from their respective catalogues and jam on fresh, lively arrangements of seasonal favorites in an uplifting.

Holiday Lighting Ceremony at The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial
Saturday, December 10, 2011, 6 PM
Exit 116, Garden State Parkway (on the grounds of the PNC Bank Arts Center)
Holmdel, NJ
732-335-0033
The Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 800 from Bergen County and the Jewish War Veterans annually hosts a Holiday Lighting Ceremony at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial in Holmdel, NJ. The ceremony includes the lighting of a Christmas tree and Menorah, and a reading about Kwanzaa. The 50/50 Raffle winning ticket will also be drawn at the ceremony.

Kenny Rogers Christmas and Hits
December. 19 at 8pm.
State Theatre
New Brunswick, NJ
A blend of holiday tunes and chart-topping hits.

The Irish Tenors Christmas Reunion 2011
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 at 8pm
State Theatre
New Brunswick, NJ
Experience beloved traditional Irish music and your favorite holiday songs performed by the original Irish Tenors backed by a 30-piece orchestra.

The Annual Christmas Delaware River Crossing Reenactment
December 25, 2011
Washington Crossing
1112 River Roa
Washington Crossing, PA
215-493-4076
On Christmas Day every year, re-enactors assemble at Washington Crossing State Park, Pennsylvania, and make their way across the Delaware River to New Jersey. The annual event commemorates the Christmas Day crossing made by Gen. George Washington and his troops in 1776. It was an historic undertaking that resulted in defeat of the Hessian troops in the Battle of Trenton. You can attend this year's event in Washington Crossing State Park, Pennsylvania. Depending on the weather, the crossing will begin at 1 p.m. The event/village activities will occur from 11am to 3pm, with the crossing time occurring around 1:00 pm, beginning at the Pennsylvania side at Washington Crossing State Park.

South Jersey 2011 NJ Christmas Events
Holidays at Johnson's Farm
November 25 to December 18, 2011
Johnson's Corner Farm
133 Church Rd.
Medford, NJ 08055
609-654-8643
The Market is transformed into a Christmas wonderland with Gifts, Cookies, Christmas trees, Wreaths and all kinds of fun activities for the family. Visit with Santa and his Reindeer. Yes it is true, Prancer will be on display in the Discovery Barnyard and Santa will be receiving Christmas wishes for one and all. Bring your own Camera for a great Photo op. Costs: Visit with Santa--No Charge - bring your camera Costs:Reindeer exhibit in the Discovery Barnyard
NEW THIS SEASON --!! Fire and Light in the Discovery Barnyard

Holiday Light Show
November 25, 2011 through January 2, 2012; Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 5:30pm - 8:30pm
Historic Smithville
615 E. Moss Mill Rd., #96
Smithville NJ,08205
Phone: 609.748.8999
Watch in awe as over 100 Christmas Trees, magically floating on Lake Meone, light up to the music around you. It is an orchestrated show of lights and music is played out across the lake. Admission: Free

Christmas Celebration - Adventure Aquarium
November 25, 2011 to January 1, 2012
Adventure Aquarium
1 Riverside Drive
Camden, NJ 08103
856-365-3300
It's Christmas…with the fishes! New this year, see the tree of a gazillion lights and our breathtaking light show as well as Scuba Santa in his all new Winter Wonderland Theater, pose with Rudolph, and help Bumble light our giant Christmas tree.

The Meischke Christmas Wonderland of Lights
Thursdays through Sunday evenings from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
November 26 through December 30, 20121
New Jersey Motorsports Park
47 Warbird Drive
Millville, NJ
(856) 327-8000
Continuing the tradition of the late Stanley "Chick" Meischke this holiday season Featuring over a quarter-million lights arranged in a colorful walk-through display, the Wonderland of Lights will be setup at the karting track.
Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children under 12. Youth 3 years and under are free.

Family Holiday Celebration
December 2, 3, 2011
Wildwoods Convention Center
Wildwood, NJ
A family holiday tradition with an exciting holiday weekend filled with fun for the entire family! Attend the Jaycees Christmas Parade on Friday night, followed by a tree lighting ceremony and parade awards ceremony. Bring the family inside the Wildwoods Convention Center lobby on Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. for free admission to Holiday-themed crafters, FREE movies and entertainment and much more! 609-729-9000 or www.WildwoodHoliday.com

Christmas Candlelight House Tour
Saturdays, December 3, 10, 17, 2011: 5:30pm to 8:30pm
Cape May, NJ
609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278
Experience the high point of Cape May's holiday season during these self-guided tours, which feature:
Homes, inns, hotels & churches specially decorated for the holidays (at least 15 each night)
Christmas caroling and strolling musicians, trees and garland & good old-fashioned cheer
Hospitality centers with warm beverages & home-baked goodies
Admission to the Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May's only Victorian house museum, and to "An Old-fashioned Christmas: Holiday Traditions through the Years" exhibit in the Carriage House Gallery
Continuous shuttle service on heated trolleys $25 adults, $20 children (ages 3-12). Limited tours. Reserve early!

Annual West Cape May Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Cape May , NJ 08204
609-884-1005
Start your holiday season with the best Christmas Parade in Cape May County! Over three hours of family fun and entertainment. Parade start time is 5:00PM. Parade starts at the West Cape May Fire Hall, proceeds south on Broadway to West Perry and to the Washington St. Mall, Cape May

Ocean City Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Asbury Avenue, 6th and 11th Streets
Ocean City, NJ 08226
(609) 525-9300
Santa Claus comes to town in a parade of marching bands, and other holiday floats. Also includes; Children's Entertainment, Music.
10:30am, Admission: Free

Scrooge - A Christmas Carol
December 3 and December 4, 2011
Strand Center for the Arts
400 Clifton Ave
Lakewood, NJ
Box office: 732-367-7789
This is a family show where you will experience the tradition and wonder of Charles Dickens's Christmas classic with staging magic created by the Riddlesbrood Traveling Theater Company. Tickets $15 & $20 (Plus Service Charge).

Holiday House Tour
Friday, December 9, 2011, 11AM to 4PM
Tuckerton Seaport
Tuckerton, NJ
www.tuckertonseaport.org or call 609-296-8868
Visit charming and festively decorated Tuckerton and Little Egg Harbor homes, and enjoy a wonderful holiday display, "Holiday Treats & Traditions - Family Friends and Food" in the Seaport's Captain House. Self-guided map and light refreshments provided.

Christkindlmarkt
December 10, and 11, 2011; 10am to 4pm
Tuckerton Seaport
120 West Main Street
Tuckerton, NJ
(609)296-8868
tuckertonseaport.org.
An old-fashioned Christmas featuring holiday crafts and gifts under huge heated tents. Hot mulled cider, roasted chestnuts, children's rides, trackless trains, whimsical carousel, horse drawn cart, entertainment, decoy carvers, quilt making, ornament making class, crafters, vendors, food, refreshments and wine tasting.

Live Nativity and Christmas Tree Lighting
Saturday, December 17, 2011, 5:00pm to 8:00pm
Church of the Assumption
146 S. Pitney Road
Galloway, NJ
The Tree Lighting will be at 5:00pm immediately following the 4:00pm Mass. Follow the procession of carolers from the tree to the outdoor Live Nativity which can be viewed from 5:00pm to 8:00pm rain or shine. Drive up to Live Nativity will be opened at 6:30pm. Indoors, enjoy a huge 4H train display, Carolers, and food. St. Nicholas will be walking around greeting people as well as taking photographs every half hour at our photo booth. Please visit www.assumption-galloway.org for more information.

A Christmas Wonderland
December 16, 17, at 7:30 PM, and December 18, 2011 at 2:00 PM
Ocean City Theatre Company
Ocean City Music Pier
Moorlyn Terrace and the Boardwalk
Ocean City, NJ 08226
609-525-9300
The enchanting cast of professional singers and dancers will present a high energy family–oriented, song and dance tribute to the holidays, directed and choreographed by Michael Hartman. Through dazzling costumes, familiar songs, special guests, toe-tapping numbers and special effects, this extravaganza will kindle the holiday spirit in all of us as the magic of the season comes to life in a brand new musical journey through seasonal favorites!
Check out your town's website as well to see when you're lighting the tree!
THE BUTTERFINGERS ANGEL "Mary & Joseph, Herod the Nut & the Slaughter of 12 Hit Carols in a Pear Tree. Friday, 12/2, Sat, 12/3, Fri 12/9, Sat 12/10 at 7:30pm, Sun 12/4 at 3pm. Tickets: $15, Students & Seniors $12. Written by William Gibson & directed by Jon Ciccarelli. At the Hackensack Cultural Arts Center, 39 Broadway, Hackensack. For tickets & reservations call: (202) 646-8042. 12/02/11-12/10/2011 WC

"CHILDHOOD'S END" AT THE SHEA CENTER December 3, 2011 at 8pm. Nationally touring Pink Floyd tribute show. Circular video screen, high-tech intelligent lights, cutting edge sound reflects the true essence of the Pink Floyd experience. Shea Center Box Office William Paterson University, 300 Pompton Rd, Wayne, NJ for info and tickets call: 973-720-2371, or go to boxoffice@wpunj.edu or www.wplive.org 12/03/11 WC

NJ BALLET'S "NUTCRACKER" at bergenPAC SATURDAY, December 3, 2011 at 4pm. Tickets: $50, $40, $30, $20, $20. At Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 Van Brunt St, Englewood. Call for tickets at 201-227-1030 or log on to www.bergenpac.org. 12/03/11 WC/ALD/PT

PRO ART CHORALE- ANNUAL HOLIDAY SING-ALONG Sunday, December 4, 2011 at 4pm. A lovely afternoon of song and celebration for the whole family. Seasonal favorites performed by the Chorale and sing-along of holiday carols followed by refreshments. Pro Arte Chorale, Ridgewood Unitarian Society, ridgewood. Tickets: Adults-$5,Children 17 & under- Free. For more info call: 201-497-8400 or go to: www.proartechorale.org, or email: info@proartechorale.org 12/04/11 WC

"MISTLETOE AND HOLLY" at the MAHWAH LIBRARY Sunday, December 4, 2011 at 2 pm. With Karen Luschar and Richard Danley at the piano. FREE. Seats are on a first come-first serve basis. Mahwah Public Library, 100 Ridge Rd., Mahwah, NJ. For more info please call 201-529-READ, or go to http://mahwah.bccls.org 12/04/11 WC

NJ BALLET'S "NUTCRACKER" at bergenPAC Sunday, December 4, 2011 at 1pm & 4pm. Tickets: $50, $40, $30, $20, $20. At Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 Van Brunt St, Englewood. Call for tickets at 201-227-1030 or log on to www.bergenpac.org. 12/04/11 WC/ALD/PT

"DICKEN'S CHRISTMAS GIFT" at the MAHWAH LIBRARY Monday, December 5, 2011 at 7 pm. A discussion with Professor Richard Lettis. What caused Charles Dickens to write the classic story and discuss its message and artistry. FREE. Seats are on a first come-first serve basis. Mahwah Public Library, 100 Ridge Rd., Mahwah, NJ. For more info please call 201-529-READ, or go to http://mahwah.bccls.org 12/05/11 WC

NUNNBETTER DANCE THEATRE'S PRESENTS NUTCRACKER Dec. 9, 2011 at 7pm, Dec. 10th at 2pm & 7pm & Dec 11th at 3pm. Annual production of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker at Bergen academies. Tickets: $25 (under 13 yrs)and $30 (adults). For more info please go to: www.nunnbetterdance.com. Bergen Academies is located at 200 Hackensack Ave, Hackensack. 12/09/11-12/11/2011 WC/PT

DOUBLE FEATURE at the PUFFIN Friday, December 9, at 7pm. Made in L.A. and Three Miracles. $5 Suggested Donation, Reservations Recommended. Puffin Cultural Forum, 20 Puffin Way, Teaneck. For more information please call 201-836-3499 or go to www.PuffinCulturalForum.org (Gallery hours:Tuesdays-Thursdays, 12-4pm or by appt) 12/09/11 WC

BERGEN YOUTH ORCHESTRA "CONCERT 126" Saturday, December 10, 2011 at 7pm. The oldest youth orchestra in northern New Jersey will present its 126th performance in the Emerson Junior/Senior High School auditorium. Conducted by Eugene Minor with special guest, BYO alumnus Steven Behnke on horn. The concert will feature works of Mendelssohn, Mozart and Dvorak. The auditorium is located at 131 Main St. in Emerson. Tickets are $10 per adult, $5 for students/seniors. 12/10/11 WC

MAYWOOD STATION MUSEUM – Santa at the Historic Maywood Station! 10-11:45pm, Sat., Dec. 10. Bring the family for a special visit by Santa to this restored 1872 station. The collection contains hundreds of photographs, documents, maps & artifacts, including the restored Caboose 24542 and the original 1942-built New York, Susquehanna & Western Alco S-2 diesel locomotive #206. Free, donations welcome. 269 Maywood Avenue, Maywood, www.maywoodstation.com 12/10/11 WC

KIDZ CABARET- AFRICAN RHYTHM TAP at bergenPAC Saturday, December 11, 2011 at 1pm & 3pm. Tickets: $17 (Buy 3 Kidz Cabaret show tix for $36). At Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 Van Brunt St, Englewood. Call for tickets at 201-227-1030 or log on to www.bergenpac.org. 12/11/11 WC/ALD/PT

ALL SEASONS CHAMBER PLAYERS CONCERT "Vive La France" Music by Leclair, Faure, Polenc and Ravel. Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011 at 3:00 pm. Suggested donation $3. All Seasons Chamber Players. Location: Ridgewood Public Library, 125 North Maple Ave, Ridgewood. For more info please call 201-670-5600, or go to www.allseasonschamberplayers.org 12/11/11 WC/PT/LP

"DICK SPINDLER'S FAMILY CHRISTMAS" at the MAHWAH LIBRARY Sunday, December 11, 2011 at 2 pm. Bret Harte's Western Fairy tale brought to life by actress Michele LaRue's expressive retelling. FREE. Seats are on a first come-first serve basis. Mahwah Public Library, 100 Ridge Rd., Mahwah, NJ. For more info please call 201-529-READ, or go to http://mahwah.bccls.org 12/11/11 WC

DolciCanti Concert "Sweet Christmas" Sunday, December 11, 2011 at 4pm. Vocal duo, DolciCanti (sporano, vicki Fisk, and alto, Beth Staples) perform familiar songs of the Christmas season and launch their latest CD, "Sweet Christmas". Location: The Westwood United Methodist Church, corner of Bergen st and Kinderkamack Rd, Westwood. $10 suggested donation- benefits Helping Hands Pantry. For more info please call: 201-707-1874 or go to: www.DolciCanti.com 12/11/11 WC

"A HOLLYWOOD CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION" at the MAHWAH LIBRARY Monday, December 12, 2011 at 7 pm. Classic Christmas movies will be discussed and clips shown. FREE. Seats are on a first come-first serve basis. Mahwah Public Library, 100 Ridge Rd., Mahwah, NJ. For more info please call 201-529-READ, or go to http://mahwah.bccls.org 12/12/11 WC

ORPHEUS CLUB MEN'S CHORUS HOLIDAY CONCERTS Saturday, December 18th, 2011 at 7:30pm and Sunday, December 18th at 4pm. Held at the United Methodist Church, 100 Dayton St, Ridgewood. The 45 member-chorus directed by John Palatucci and accompanied Ron Levy, with featured guest, trumpeter Rick Henly will present a well-rounded musical program of seasonal, classical, traditional, pop, and Broadway selections. Tickets: $15, students and seniors: $12. Any questions, please call 201-652-2873 or go to: www.ridgewoodorpheusclub.org. 12/18/11 WC/PT

CHRISTMAS CAROL at bergenPAC Sunday, December 18, 2011 at 4pm. Tickets: $25, $25, $15, $10, $10. At Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 Van Brunt St, Englewood. Call for tickets at 201-227-1030 or log on to www.bergenpac.org. 12/18/11 WC/ALD/PT

BEST Christmas Lights in NJ

According to Yahoo.com, these are the BEST places to see Christmas lights in New Jersey.... Check 'em out!
Every year I speak with family and friends and hunt the internet for the best Christmas light displays in New Jersey. Everyone of all ages are always amazed at the residential homes that go above and beyond to make the holidays so special. The following is a listing of Christmas lights in New Jersey that are worth the trip. Hopefully, this will help you take the initial search out of your trip! Enjoy! If you know of other great finds, please leave a comment.
Did you know that New Jersey is home to the first electric Christmas lights? Thomas Edison showed of his new electric Christmas lights in his laboratory in Menlo Park, New Jersey in the year 1880. Outdoor Christmas lights were not introduced to the public until 1927-1928!

South Jersey 265 Georgia Drive, Brick, NJ
Home has in excess of 20,000 lights, fishing Santa (mechanized), 28ft tall Patriotic (RWB) tree all connected to 64 LOR channels and a few X-10 circuits.
117 Virginia Avenue, Westmont, NJ
Hours are 5pm till 11pm every day December 1st thru January.
Pitman Light Display, North Avenue, Pitman, NJ
Located in the in the Grove Section of Pitman, which is a block off of S. Broadway. The display includes numerous homes and you can actually walk through the yards.
Love Lights, 6 Glenn Forge Drive, Sicklerville, NJ
Over 8000 lights, all computer controlled, FM transmitter.

Central Jersey
13 Sterling Court, East Brunswick, NJ
In 2008 the entire display was completed by their teenager. It consisted of 110,000 lights, 8 inflatables, and 100 various yard decorations. They also have a annual Santa night.
Tom and Krys' Winter Wonderland, 10 Central Avenue, Old Bridge, NJ
Display has more than 100,000 lights and a 22 foot Christmas tree entirely made of lights and synchronized to a selection of music. Hours are 5-9 PM.
Brown Family Lights, 316 Dey Grove Road, Monroe, New Jersey
Over 80,000 computer animated lights set to music. 09. Set your radio station to 95.3 FM.
Brotherhood Street, Piscataway, New Jersey
Over 10000 lights and over 120 computer controlled channels. Many handmade projects on display.
Bernard Street, Lawrenceville, New Jersey
Off of Princeton Pike, before Lawrence High School. Shows from 5:30pm-9pm, Sun-Thursday, Friday and Saturday till 10:00 pm. Tune to 102.3FM when your pulling up.
127 Hidden Trail, North Plainfield, New Jersey
Includes 22,000 lights, animated Santa's workshop in the garage, back yard filled with light up deer and trees, huge animated Santa in front window.

North Jersey
136 Arnot Street, Lodi, NJ 07644
As of 2007 the display featured almost 45,000 lights, synchronized to music by 102 computer channels. The music can be heard over 4 outdoor speakers and is broadcast over 91.3 FM. Other features include a nativity, polar bear scene, Santa's Workshop, Snowman Snowball Fight, shooting stars, and a bubble blower for a snow effect.
http://christmas.bronners.com/2006/house/447.html
http://christmas.bronners.com/2008/house/696.html
http://www.thatchristmashouse.com/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Q2bIttTg4Q
http://www.koenigchristmas.com/

Also c/o Yahoo.com, check out this info on Mahwah:

Every family has a tradition that marks the beginning of the Christmas season. When my mom was a little girl, it was coming home from church Thanksgiving morning in time to see Santa in the Macy's Parade. When I was growing up, our tradition was going to see a house a couple towns away that had an awesome lights display. The tradition began to lag as we got older, as our family tradition was shared by more and more people, to the point of requiring police to direct traffic around the house. The display is on a dead end in Mahwah, New Jersey, and has become quite the tourist attraction.
It all started with a wealthy Elvis impersonator who went a little overboard with his Christmas lights. He has "the king" on his rooftop, along with Marilyn Monroe and some other characters! Neighbors joined in, and now one can travel through the two cul-de-sacs and enjoy a rare spectacle. They have lights on islands in the middle of ponds, along grass and trees and bushes, even completely lining walls. There are so many lights involved that, as one website pointed out, " An article in the Bergen Record [local paper]...mentioned it cost $200/night to power the Christmas Lights and that there were 12 electrical substations on the property to handle the load" (see http://www.fourfold.ca/billm/Misc/Christmas/2004/ElvisHouseInMahwah/ElvisHouse.htm). An attentive viewer can find Lady Liberty and Father Christmas, and if you step out of your car, you should even hear some music.
As I said, the attraction has grown so much that Mahwah police officers are needed on the weekend to direct traffic. Last time I went to see them a few years ago, we sat in traffic for a good 45 minutes before even getting to the streets. But, as long as you have good company and maybe a snack, the wait is well worth it.
The "Elvis House", as it has come to be called, is located on Victoria Lane in Mahwah, New Jersey, which is about a half hour outside of New York City (depending on the traffic, of course). To get there, take NJ Route 17 to the Rt. 202-Ramapo Valley Road Exit toward Oakland, which is all the way up Rt. 17, almost into New York State. Go down Ramapo Valley Road past Ramapo College of NJ. Pause and do me the favor of giving my alma mater a wave! Right past the college, you will turn left onto Darlington, then very shortly take your first right onto Campgaw. Drive down Campgaw about a mile. When you are forced to stop behind a long line of waiting cars stopped ahead of you, you will know that you have arrived on line.
I encourage you, if you are in the Bergen County area, or even if you are in New York City and want to venture into the suburbs, to check out this spectacle. It is truly one-of-a-kind. Sadly, now I am far away in Virginia, and my Christmas season starts the day after Thanksgiving when I turn on the radio in the car, and hear Christmas carols for the first time, generally causing a groan as I am reminded that I should probably start my Christmas shopping. Ah how I long for the good old days, with Elvis wishing me a Merry Christmas.

Give Back, and Get a Gift....What Could be Better!?!?!

Dear Friend,

	So many people told us how much they loved the 2012 March of Dimes calendar that we wanted to give you one final opportunity to get one for yourself! For a contribution of $25 or more, we'll send you this beautiful and inspiring calendar as our gift to you. With the season of giving in full swing, please don't forget the March of Dimes on your list ... and you'll get a gift in return. Each day, 1,500 babies are born prematurely or sick in our country, adding up to more than 500,000 per year. With your help, 2012 could be different.

Supplies are limited, so please hurry to get your free 2012 calendar today with a donation of $25 or more.

Thank you,

The March of Dimes

* Only donations made by clicking through this email qualify. Please allow 2-4 weeks for delivery.

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Cutie Patootie Holiday Events....

Holiday Events...
Sat., Dec 10: 10AM-1PM Breakfast w/Santa and Holiday Gift Boutique
($15 per child)

Sun., Dec 18: 4PM
Holiday Concert with Kidz Musik ($15 per child)

Wed., Dec 21: 10:30AM
Mini Concert with Music Together (Free with Open Play)

Thurs., Dec 22: 11AM
Fri., Dec 23: 2PM
Santa Cookie Workshop: Come Decorate your own goodies for the BIG Guy just in time for the BIG night!
Age 2 and up
($10 per child)

Fri., Dec 23: 11AM
Mini Concert with Frank and Friends (Free with Open Play)

Tues., Dec 27: 11AM
Jilly's Puppets (Free with Open Play)

Monday, November 28, 2011

Thinking about a New Year's Resolution??? Check out Cafe Well's "Race to the Moon"!

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Cafe Well for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Cafe Well is a social network that's dedicated to living a healthy lifestyle- basically getting well and staying well! (What a concept!) On Cafe Well, you'll find up-to-date health news-stories, communities of people that share your health interests, and (the best part) you can create challenges for yourself and track your progress. It's really pretty cool.

Right now at Cafe Well, they're beginning their "Race to the Moon" sponsored also by HealthAmerica. This is a movement that prompts people to get up and move! The idea is that the people participating in this challenge will attempt to walk/run as many steps as it takes to walk to the moon! What a great idea! Many businesses are even sponsoring their employees and giving pedometers to help them in achieving their goals!

As health care costs increase and as obesity continues to be named as one of the leading causes for America's health issues, it's worth a look for your employer to get involved and offer incentives to those who move the most! Maybe a gym membership? Maybe gift cards to a local health food store? Maybe a feature in the local paper for those staff members that choose to participate and succeed?

Here at North Jersey Mom, we know that there's strength in numbers.... We'd like to see is (in the workplace) a Cafe Well member might be able to create a team that can reach a certain goal of steps taken, etc. The incentive comes in with each participant a team leader can recruit as well as the team's performance. This might get the ball rolling on exercise with friends. The idea is that it almost goes "viral". Team members can be friends and family members of employees as well. They'll then involve their friends and neighbors and so on.... Give it a shot at your work! Check out Cafe Well for details.

This site and it's collective goal for the people involved deserves recognition (that's why we're writing about it), and the people who choose to participate deserve a "pat on the back" as well. Give it a shot! Any ideas how you might incorporate this into your lifestyle with your little ones??? Leave a comment and let us know!

Sunday, November 27, 2011

What to Buy?

This list (c/o goodhousekeeping.com) will give a little insight into kid-tested toys that passed in various age groups. we can say from experience that 2 and 5 year olds LOVE the Critter Clinic, and play with it (almost) every day!

Good Housekeeping's Best Toy Awards 2011

By Good Housekeeping

Good Housekeeping Research Institute experts examined hundreds of new toys and chose 85 contenders for the truest test: a lab full of kids. Next, 115 children played for days to help select these 19 winners.

Choosing the winners of our fourth annual toy awards involved more than setting up a few playdates. Over seven days, 115 children — ages 3 to 14 — played, filling out nearly 1,000 surveys. But it wasn't just a numbers game; toys had to pass our safety testing, too.