American Tobacco Campus during the Holidays

What it is: We've written about special events at the American Tobacco Campus before as well as some of the great restaurants that are there.  However, we just had to mention what it has to offer this holiday season.  After our dinner at Mellow Mushroom last week we decided to wander around a little and take in the sights.  They already had their Christmas lights up and they were beautiful.  There were twinkling lights everywhere.  My boys loved just looking around and taking it all in. 

In addition to all of the lights, they are already celebrating the Jingle Bull Bash there during the holidays.  This means that they have several different events that you can check out if you head down there.  The Triangle Christmas Tree Challenge is going on from December 3 until January 2.  There will be 50 trees displayed throughout the campus decorated by various non-profits.  Anyone can text to vote for their favorite tree!  You can also check out Home Makeover: Gingerbread Edition which will be in the Strickland Lobby from December 3 to January 2.  The Cool Yule Countdown Tower Lighting will take place on December 4 at  7pm.

What we like: The American Tobacco Campus looked beautiful with all the lights and will be even better with all the special events.  Sounds like great fun for kids during the holidays.


What we would change: We just wish these lights were up all year long!


Website and other important information: 

Website: http://www.americantobaccohistoricdistrict.com/news/jingle_bull_bash.asp

Address: 318 Blackwell Street, Durham, North Carolina, 27701-3600

Phone Number: 919.433.1566

Photos:

*The pictures really don't do it justice...

Kids' Night at Chick-Fil-A

What it is: We have alreay talked about what a great place Chick-Fil-A is to take your kids.  However, we found more reasons to take your family there when we went there last Tuesday night.  We were heading out of town for Thanksgiving break, and our tradition is to always stop at Chick-Fil-A for dinner on the way out.

When we pulled in the parking lot, we almost couldn't find a spot.  Immediately we remembered that it was kids' night, but we didn't know what all that entailed.  We headed in, and even though the parking lot was full, it didn't feel that crowded.  We ordered our food and found out that our kids' meal was free with an adult purchase.  Excellent! 

When we sat down to enjoy our food, we noticed a craft table in the corner.  The kids can head over, do a free craft, and have the guidance of a Chick-Fil-A employee to help with the craft.  My son had a great time, and the adult at the table was great with him!

When we had finished our meal, we remembered another great Chick-Fil-A secret.  If your child is not really fond of the toy, you can trade it in for an ice cream cone at the end of your meal at no additional cost.  What a great hidden treat! 

What we liked: Chick-Fil-A is one of the friendliest restaurants that we've found.  We're constantly finding little treats and reasons to come back.  The craft table where the kids actually had help was unique, especially because you could tell they had put some thought and time into preparing the craft. 


What we would change: Because it is such a good deal, it does get crowded on kids' night.  In fact, there were so many big kids in the play area that we really didn't feel comfortable sending our 2.5 year old son in. 

(Keep in mind, this information is only pertaining to the Chick-Fil-A located at the intersection of Hwy. 751 and Rennaisance Pkwy .  You'd have to check out the other locations to see about their special programs.)

Website and other important information:

Website: http://www.chick-fil-a.com/localsite.aspx?id=02138

Address: 7836 Leonardo Dr Durham, NC 27713

Phone Number: (919) 206-4330

Call for Hours

Photos: 

 1. The play area car viewed from our seat

 

Gelato at Cuban Revolution

What it is: While there are several nice restaurants at the American Tobacco Campus, we have always wanted a nice place to get a sweet treat while we're there.  We've finally discovered one!  Cuban Revolution is a restaurant located at one end of the campus.  While we've never eaten there, we did discover that there is a little gelato display in the front.  You can just stop in, pick out your flavor, pay, and enjoy your treats outside wandering around.


What we liked: The gelato was tasty and it was the perfect finale to a delicious dinner at the American Tobacco Campus.  My son and I split the chocolate and my husband tried the blood orange.  Yum!  You can get a small portion, and it's just the perfect amount for a small child or adult in need of something sweet.

What we would change: This is a great find, and we just wish we had found it sooner!


Website and other important information: 

Website: http://thecubanrevolution.com/

Address: 318 Blackwell St, Durham, NC

Phone Number: (919) 687-4300

Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11am-Midnight, Friday and Saturday 11am-2am


Photos:

Mellow Mushroom

What it is: We headed to downtown Durham for dinner but at the last minute we had to change our plans and needed a kid friendly restaurant that was open on Sunday night.  So, we headed to the American Tobacco Campus and went to Mellow Mushroom.  They a wide variety of pizzas as well as other fare such as calzones and sandwiches. 

What we liked: The prices are reasonable and there are some creative options in pizza toppings.  You can create your own or choose from some of their own creations.  I enjoyed the BBQ pizza while my husband had the buffalo chicken.  We also liked the fact that they were open on a Sunday night.  It can be tricky to find a restaurant downtown open at that time.  We also enjoyed its location in the American Tobacco Campus so we could go wander after our meal.


What we would change: While Mellow Mushroom is a kid-friendly restaurant, it would be optimal for older kids.  They had an arcade game and some televisions scattered around for watching the game which would be fun activities for older kids.  However, they did not have a specific kids' menu.  Therefore, it is best for older kids that can order of the regular menu.  When we asked if there was a kids menu, they commented that most young kids like our toddler ordered the cheesy bread as their meal.  It would have been nice if they had kids' pizzas. 


Website and other important information:

Website: http://www.mellowmushroom.com/durham#/store/index/durham

Address: 410 Blackwell Street, Durham, NC 27701

Phone: (919) 680-8500

Hours: Monday 11am-9pm, Tuesday-Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday and Saturday 11am-11pm, Sunday 11:30am-9pm

Photos: 

 1. A view of Mellow Mushroom from the outside

Climbing Blocks at the Art Council (A true hidden treasure)

What is is: While the Holiday Art Walk was entertaining for our two-year old for the majority of the time, by the time we got to the Durham Arts Council on Morris St. he had had enough.  He wanted out of the stroller and was ready to move his feet a little bit.  However, since we were in downtown Durham we really couldn't find many places where it was safe to let him roam.  When we stepped out of the Arts Council, grumpy toddler in tow, we found what we were looking for, a small grassy area filled with stone blocks perfect for toddler climbing.  My son had such a good time climbing around with other kids that the next difficulty came in getting him to leave when it was time to head to lunch.  While people wouldn't head to this spot as it's own outing, it can be a great little time out for the kids after or in between other outings downtown.


What we liked: It was the perfect hidden spot to play hidden in downtown!  The grass under the block sculptures made toddler jumping a safer activity.


What we would change: It's a small area, and there is a street off to one side, so it's not someplace that toddlers and kids could play independently.  Parents have to keep a close eye on where they are roaming.


Important Information: The climbing blocks at the Arts Council are located at the corner of Morris and Morgan Streets, directly behind the Carolina Theatre and the Marriot Civic Center.

Photos:

Dame's Chicken and Waffles

What it is: This new restaurant is a fabulous addition to downtown Durham.  In a fairly unmarked spot on Main St with only a sign in the window for identification.  When we walk by, we frequently see people looking at the menu on the door and asking, "Chicken and waffles?  Together?  Is that good?"  We were wondering the same thing, and the answer is an emphatic yes!

Dame's serves chicken and waffles with a variety of sides, and that's it.  The have several different types of waffles, a couple of different preparations of chicken, and a selection of flavored butters and spreads called "shmears".  They combine them all into delicious creations.  I enjoyed the sweet potato waffle with fried chicken, orange butter, a dijon sauce, and syrup. I mixed it all together, and it was delicious!  My husband also enjoyed his blueberry waffles, chicken wings, and hot sauce.  The quality of their food is fantastic and my son ate almost all of his plain waffle with syrup.


What we liked:  The quality of the food is really good, and it's certainly unique.  We like how they only focus on what they do well, and they can make it simply enough for the kids to enjoy.

What we would change: The service is fairly slow, but if you can keep your child occupied it is well worth the wait. (It might be helpful to bring an activity for them to do.)  Also, since it is downtown, it can be tricky to find nearby parking.

Website and other important information:

Website: http://dameschickenwaffles.com/

Address: 317 Main St., Durham, NC 27701

Phone Number: 919-682-WAFL (9235)


Photos:

1. My sweet potato waffles

2. My husband's chicken wings

(So, we're not great food photographers, but trust us, it was yummy!)

Durham Art Walk (Holiday Market)

What it is: This past weekend, we headed to downtown Durham for the Art Walk and Holiday Market.  I didn't quite know what to expect and didn't know if it would be kid-friendly.  However, it turned out to be great fun for the whole family!

For the Art Walk, stores and businesses downtown open their doors to local artist and the general public.  It happens twice a year, the fall and the spring.  You can wander around downtown and stop by different location to see a wide variety of art and purchase some beautiful pieces from local artists.   This time there were over 200 artists to choose from.

What we liked:  We stopped by several locations with just a couple of artists which was fun because you had the chance to really get to know the artists individually. We also stopped by the Durham Armory and Durham Arts Council where there were collections of many artists to see all in one place.  That was also a great way to see a lot of art without much leg work.  We were able to purchase a couple of unique gifts for really reasonable prices and get out and about in the Durham community at the same time.  My toddler loved riding around the streets of downtown Durham in the stroller.  It was a great mix of taking in the outdoor scenery and shopping for him.  Whenever he would get tired, it would be time to go somewhere else and he would be refreshed.

What we would change:  Sometimes there was quite a distance between the various stores.  So, a stroller for toddler transportation was a must for us.  In addition some of the artwork was fragile so you do have to watch out for roaming toddler hands. It's a shame that it only happens once in the fall and once in the spring, and it's a shame you can't have this experience more often.

Website: http://www.durhamartwalk.com/

Photos:  

Views of some of the artwork at the armory

AquaMoms Class - Healthy Moms

What it is:

Healthy Moms is an exercise program for pregnant or postpartum moms.  Some classes are just for mothers and others incorporate in babies and/or toddlers.  The classes are offered at various locations in Durham and Wake County and include:

• Prenatal AquaMoms - a water aerobics class for pregnant mothers
• AquaMoms - a  water aerobics class with babies
• Intro to Pilates- for postpartum moms to restore abdominals
• Mat I Pilates- for postpartum moms who've taken intro to pilates
• Mom & Tot Fitness - an exercise class that incorporates in dance and music for walkers and up
• Pre/post natal yoga
• PowerStroll - for postpartum moms and babies
• Moms, Babes and Balls
• Total Body Conditioning

What we like:

I took the AquaMoms with baby class with my son when he was 18 months old.  It was offered at the Woodcroft Clubhouse during the summer.  It was a great way to get some exercise outside with my son and give him a chance to get comfortable in the water.  The class incorporated in music and free play at various points to keep his attention.  The facilities at the Woodcroft pool are nice and we could use the water slide briefly after class. 


I would recommend taking this class when your child is 6 or 9 months until 18 months at the oldest, depending on the size of your child.  My son was on the older side and it would have been better to take the class when he was a little younger since it involves a lot of lifting.

What we would change:

 Sometimes, I felt like I didn't get a great workout but I think it depends on the instructor and how many times you stop to play.  Some instructors are personal trainers and offer better workouts than others.  I took the PowerStroll class a few times and this was a great workout.  But it is also difficult to strike a balance between exercise and keeping your little one happy and occupied.  


The classes can be expensive at $14 per class if you sign up for the whole session (usually 10 weeks or longer) or $16 per class if you drop-in but they do offer discounts if you're a returning mom, belong to one of the gyms where the classes are offered or sign up early.  Also you typically can't stay afterward and swim in any of the pools. 

Website and other important information:

The classes in Durham county start on November 29th.  The session runs Nov 29 through Feb 26, with two weeks off Dec 19-Jan 2 for the holidays.

These classes include:

Tuesday:       6:00-7:00 pm        Prenatal AquaMoms®       D201      

Triangle Sportsplex, 1 Dan Kidd, Hillsborough*childcare* 

Thursday:      9:30-10:30 am     Mom & Baby TBC®            D401      

Move It Be Fit, 4810 Hope Valley Rd, Ste 107, Durham

                         6:30-7:30 pm   Prenatal AquaMoms®        D402      

Gold’s Gym RTP, 4700 Emperor Blvd, Durham

Saturday:       9:00-9:45 am        AquaMoms® w/Baby         D601     

 Gold’s Gym RTP, 4700 Emperor Blvd, Durham     

Please Note: Mom & Baby TBC will not begin until Thurs Dec 9, making this a 10-week course

To sign up visit their website at:

www.HealthyMomsNC.com

Fridays Uncorked at Southern Season

What it is: Fridays Uncorked is a great way for you to get out with some friends and sample some wines in a casual setting.  Every Friday night, Southern Season in Chapel Hill hosts a drop-in wine tasting in their upstairs cooking school.  They usually offer 5 different types of wines and a selection of cheese to go with them.  The wines all relate to a different theme depending on the evening.  People can arrive at any time between 5 and 8pm, sample the offerings, learn a little about wine, and relax.


What we liked: Before I had kids, my husband and I used to volunteer to pour the wines at Fridays Uncorked.  While it is very casual, we only once actually saw a parent bring their kids with them.  So, the kids probably shouldn't come into the wine tasting, but since it is located in Southern Season which is a part of University Mall, it would be really easy to have a moms' wine tasting with some friends while the guys take the kids to Chick-Fil-A.  Conversely, you could have a early date evening and send the kids with the grandparents or a family friend to the toy store in the mall or even to wander the endless aisles of Southern Season.  Fridays Uncorked seems like a fairly accessible fun escape where you wouldn't even necessarily have to leave the kids at home if you're creative.  In addition to sipping some wine, you can also visit the rest of Southern Season while you're there and soak in all of the gourmet food fun!


What we would change: It is a little on the pricey side at around $15-20 per person, but it is well worth it for the relaxation!


Website and other important information:

Website: https://www.southernseason.com/class/department.asp?id=53

Address: University Mall, Chapel Hill, NC 27514

Phone Number: (919) 929-7133

Hours: Fridays 5pm-8pm

Sport Clips

What it is: There are always so many options when getting your child's haircut.  Do you cut it yourself?  Do you go to the expensive kids' salon, or do you find somewhere else that has less frills but it also less expensive?  Option one is definitely out for us because if I were to cut my son's hair, he would look pretty awful.  For my son's first haircut, we sprung for the expensive salon. In this case, that was Peek-a-doo.  It was a good experience, we got our picture and our lock of baby hair, but it was pretty expensive for something that has to happen pretty regularly.  So, the option that we choose is option 3.  We have been to Great Clips in the past and have been fairly pleased.  Their prices are reasonable and the haircut looks fine, but I wanted to take my son some place that he would look forward to going to, if possible.

For our most recent haircut, we decided to try someplace new.  We headed down to Sport Clips near Southpoint Mall.  From the minute we walked in, I knew it would appeal to my son.  Everything has a sport theme and he immediately recognized the Duke banner hanging on the ceiling. (Don't worry, they also had a UNC banner.)  He also enjoyed the football playing on one of several large flat screen TV's, this one in the waiting area.  We didn't have too wait long, and then we were taken back. 

The stylist who cut my son's hair was very experienced in working with kids and it went very well.  However, my son typically does fairly well with haircuts.  My trick has been to ask for a lollipop at the beginning of the haircut instead of the end.  While the pop does run the risk of being covered with little hairs during the process, it definitely keeps my toddler happy.  The price was reasonable, only a couple dollars more than Great Clips, and his hair looks good.

What we liked: It is relatively inexpensive, but my son still enjoyed the experience because of the sports theme.  I feel like older boys in particular would like this place.  In addition, all good haircut places (in my opinion) need a stock of lollipops on hand, and they didn't disappoint.  Another benefit of heading to a place like this is the fact that you can just walk right in and not have to wait too long, especially if you head over there in the middle of a weekday.

What we would change: Their website states that it's a place for haircuts "for men".  However, I don't see why a girl wouldn't enjoy the sports theme just as much as a boy.  I think it's a shame that they limit it like that.  We did see a girl getting her haircut while we were there,  but they probably aren't as used to styling girls' hair.


Website and other important information:

Website: http://www.sportclips.com/

Address: 8200 Renaissance Parkway, Durham, NC 27713-7747

Phone Number: (919) 361-0087

Hours: Open Weekdays 10am-8pm; Sat 9am-6pm; Sun 1pm-6pm

**For more information about Peek-a-Doo and a few other salons the area, check out our blogger friends, mominchapelhill

Photos:  

(the all important lollipop)

(the storefront)

The Duke Cross Country Trail (The Al Beuhler Trail)

What it is: I was looking back at all of the previous blog posts and I couldn't believe that I left this one off.  This has always been one of my husband and I's favorite trails in the area.  Is is a 3.1 mile loop that surrounds the Washington Duke Inn and their golf course.  The trail surface itself is gravel and dirt and is surrounded by some nice trees and forest.  In addition, it's quite hilly so it gives a pretty good workout.  It is well-traveled and usually full of walkers and joggers, so I feel fairly safe by myself, but it is always safer to go for a walk or jog in the woods with company.


What we liked: While I've heard stories of people that have taken their toddlers to walk around the WHOLE trail under their own power, I don't think that this would be possible for my son.  If he did manage to walk the whole way, I think it might take the better part of a day.  So, this trail is much better for use with a stroller.  While toddlers can't walk the whole way, one of the benefits of this trail is that you can run for while and then let them out to play on a bridge or in the trees without the worry of traffic.

It's also nice if you're trying to get in a run of a certain distance because there are mile markers to tell you how far you went. In addition to that, it's great practice with hill running or walking.  Before we had kids, my husband and I saw a couple running up one of the biggest hills pushing a jogging stroller.  We looked on in admiration at them passing us on that hill and swore that when we had kids, that would be us.  While we haven't run it yet with our new double stroller, we're looking forward to it!


What we would change:  Since the surface is dirt, it can get muddy in wet weather.  In addition, as I've said earlier it's pretty hilly which can be a little challenging when you're pushing a stroller.  In addition, there are no restrooms along the way.

There are two parking lots, but they can both fill up pretty quickly on a busy day with nice weather, so be prepared to have a bit of difficulty finding parking.

Website and other important information:

Address: The Duke Cross-Country Trail is located off of Cameron Blvd. near it's intersection with Erwin Rd.  If you exit 15-501 at the Duke University Exit, head toward Duke's campus and the first trail parking lot will be on the right on Cameron Blvd.

Website: www.dukeforest.duke.edu/location/Al_Buehler_trail_distance.pdf

Tennis Courts

What it is: I was always a tennis player growing up, so I knew it was a sport that I wanted to introduce to my kids.  However, I didn't know whether toddlers were old enough to start playing.  However, as the weather got cooler, a tennis court just seemed like the perfect place to head with my two year old.

What we liked: Tennis courts are great as a place for toddlers to play because they are fenced.  In addition, there's plenty of room to run.  In addition, whether anyone actually attempts to teach them anything about tennis or not, they will have a ball running around playing with rackets and bouncing the balls around.  Since the regular tennis rackets are a little big for my two year old, we used a plastic racket that we purchased at Walmart that was meant for badminton and a big beach ball to make it easier to hit. 

In addition, since lots of tennis courts do not have any shade they are a perfect place to hang out on these cold fall days.  The sun shines down warmly and keeps us warm while we play.


What we would change: Toddlers are a big young to actually play tennis, so if you're looking for a rallying partner, might want to try someone a little older.  However, they can have great fun exploring the environment.  In addition, I would prefer to bring toddlers to somewhere were there are only a few courts fenced in together.  That way, there's not too much room for the toddlers to roam.  In addition, if there are other people on the courts next to where you are playing, you have to be courteous, stay quiet, and keep your balls off their court so that you don't disturb their game.


Important information:


Here is the most recent list of Durham parks that have tennis courts.  In addition, many neighborhoods and apartment complexes have tennis courts available for the use of their residents. 


(Cook Rd, East End, Elmira, Forest Hills, Garrett Rd, Morreene Rd, Northgate, Oval Drive, Rock Quarry, Sherwood, Southern Boundaries, Whippoorwill )


For more information about tennis in the area, here's the link to the Durham and Orange County Tennis Association: www.docta.org



Photos: 

1. A local neighborhood tennis court

2. Regular tennis equipment and our toddler tennis supplies

OnlyBurger

What it is: Up until this weekend, OnlyBurger has been a fantastic food truck that shows up at various locations in Durham including the Farmer's Market with its delicious burgers and fries.  However, this weekend, OnlyBurger opened up its first bricks and mortar location!  They now have a restaurant located in Hope Valley Square off of Shannon Rd. where you can enjoy their menu whenever you want.

My family had to stop by on this grand opening weekend and check it out.  Apparently, we're glad we checked it out on Sunday because they were so busy on Saturday that they ran out of burgers!  Their menu is simple.  They have regular burgers, turkey burgers, and veggie burgers.  You can get them with cheese, bacon, or other usual condiments.  You can also get fries, chips, soft drinks, or assorted alcoholic beverages.  That's it, nice and simple. 


What we liked: Their burgers and fries were delicious, and we love the fact that they have both a food truck and a restaurant option.  We also like their location in the Hope Valley Square shopping center.  Several other restaurants have gone in there recently including Pops Backdoor South and Rick's.  Signs and websites advertise the opening of a frozen yogurt shop and a gourmet grocery opening up in that center in the near future.


What we would change: If you're child likes burgers and fries, you'll be happy.  If not, there are no other options.  In addition, we asked for a knife to cut up the burger into smaller pieces for my son and they didn't have any.  They don't have any specific adaptations for kids except high chairs.  In addition, the restaurant itself is small.  However, they do have several tables outside and a nice grassy area that could possibly used for seating.


Website and other important information:


Website: http://www.durhamcatering.com/onlyburger/


Address: 3710 Shannon Rd, Suite 118, Durham



Phone Number: (919) 937-9377



Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11am-9pm, Sunday: 11am-8pm



Photos:

1. a view of the counter

2. the outside

And the Winner is...

We're happy to announce the winner of our November giveaway of a four serving dinner at Blue Sky Dining.  The lucky winner is Tina!  Tina commented:

"I've seen this truck and didn't know what it was...I'll definitely have to stop. Our family's favorite meal is Tacos...I try to make them in batches and freeze for busy nights."

 So, Tina, just e-mail us at: scmomsgroup@gmail.com to claim your gift certificate.  Everyone else, there will be another great giveaway in December, so stay tuned. Thanks again to Chef Mike from Blue Sky Dining!

Wine Authorities

What it is: Yes, that's right, I'm putting a wine store on a blog for places to go with kids.  Bear with me.  Wine Authorities is a great wine store, and they have also kept our kids in mind.  First, it's a great place to go to shop for wine.  They have lots of unique varieties and categorize the wine according to Daily Wine (the cheapest), Weekly Wine (more expensive), Monthly Wine (most expensive), very creative.  The owners are very friendly and knowledgeable and willing to point you in the right direction.  It's also in a great part of Durham for outings with kids.  It's in the same shopping center as Little Gym and Local Yogurt and just down the road from Q-Shack, Fish Shack, Guglhupf Bakery, Foster's, Rockwood Park, and Forest Hills Park.

What we liked: What really drew me in were rumors that this wine store had a lego table.  I didn't believe it, but sure enough, you head back to the back and there's a lego table and a few other kids toys as well as some crayons!  Genius.  That way, you can actually shop for a bottle of wine while your kids are entertained and not trying knock over displays and break bottles.  It gets better, there's also a tasting bar back there as well as a couple of couches for a nice lounge area.  They have free tastings every Saturday from 12pm-3pm.  There's even an electronic, ATM-type tasting bar on the wall.  You can enter your card, pay for the type of wine you want, and it will serve you up a glass at any time.  So, you can even relax and taste a little sip or a whole glass while your kids play.  They also sell a variety of tasty snacks to accompany your beverage. (Remember...I'm definitely not advocating drinking large amounts while you're caring for your kids.)

We went in, looked around at the wine, and then it was time to leave.  I thought, oh great, now we need to leave, how will I get my child away from the lego table.  But don't worry they've thought of everything.  There's a jar of lollipops at the front register for little ones.  On the way out, I noticed one more thing that completely sold me.  They have a freezer full of locopops, and not just any locopops, wine flavored locopops!  Oh, and there's even some in there for the kiddos without the wine.

It's so nice when a business takes the time to really think about how they could make their business easier and more friendly to families.  Thanks, Wine Authorities!


What we would change: We were the only ones in the back while we were there, but I can see how the little kids area would get crowded if there were a bunch of people there for a tasting.  Looks like I'll have to go back and see.

Website and other important information:

Website: http://www.wineauthorities.com/

Address: 2501 University Dr, Durham, NC 27707

Phone Number: (919) 489-2884

Hours: Monday-Thursday 10am-6:30pm, Friday and Saturday 10am-7:30pm, Closed Sunday

Photos: 

1. The kids' area

2. The electronic tasting bar

Blue Sky Dining-Our November Giveaway!

*We wanted to have our November giveaway before everyone got busy with the fast-approaching holiday season.  And as is fitting for a November giveaway before Thanksgiving, this one is all about eating, and eating well!  Read about our latest find, Blue Sky Dining, and information about the giveaway will be at the end...Enjoy!

What it is: Blue Sky Dining is a mobile catering company that specializes in food for families.  It is operated by Chef Mike, a talented, veteran chef.  They have a mobile food truck that can usually be found in South Durham.  It sounded like a great idea that would make the lives of busy, tired moms much easier, so we decided to check them out.    Chef Mike posts the menu for the week online.  They include delicious meals that consist of an entree, two sides, and a dessert.  Check out this week's menu here.  I selected the day that I wanted to enjoy the meals and how many portions I wanted, and I contacted Chef Mike with this information by noon of that day.

Then, I stopped by his truck (conveniently located off of Hwy. 54 near Fayetteville Rd.) between 5pm and 7pm that evening, walked up to the window without even having to get my kids out of the car.  He handed me the food and I paid him.  My son was also highly entertained by visiting the "food truck" and enjoyed the whole experience.

When I got home, we had a delicious meal ready when we walked in the door!  We enjoyed Penne Ala Vodka with sausages and peppers, salad with homemade dressing, cheesy garlic bread, and pecan toffee tassies for dessert.  It was wonderful!  The quality of the food was excellent, especially the dessert!  My son is an incredibly picky eater, and he couldn't stop eating the desserts either.

Blue Sky Dining not only offers family meals for pick up, they also deliver meals on a weekly basis, cater events, and do corporate lunches.

What we liked: We loved the fact that we could eat a delicious dinner and not have to prepare it!  We also loved how easy it was to stop by Chef Mike's truck and grab the food quickly.  The price is also comparable to eating out with each serving costing only $9.

What we would change:  We had a great experience and wouldn't change a thing about the process.  However, maybe it would be nice to have some more choice instead of just having one option each night.


Website and other important information:

Website: http://www.blueskydiningnc.com/

Location: The Blue Sky Dining is typically located off of Hwy. 54 near Fayetteville Rd.

Contact Information:

Chef Mike Nieri, 919-451-8476, chefmike@blueskydiningnc.com

Photos:

1. The truck

2. The food

THE GIVEAWAY-Blue Sky Dining is offering a gift certificate for four servings of one of its delicious family meals for any night that you choose! It would be great for an evening when you are feeling tired or too busy to cook.  


To enter, simply comment on this entry here or on Facebook by Friday, November 12 at midnight.  Since Chef Mike creates such yummy family meals-comment on your families' favorite meal.

Christmas Festivities at Meadow Lights

What it is:

Meadow Light is an amazing Christmas light display in Meadow, NC, about an hour away from here.  Some of the displays include an authentic manger scene, carousel scenes, and much more. You can view most of the lights display as you ride on at train.  
 

There is also a carousel to ride on, an old-fashioned candy store and Santa Claus.  There is also a family smorgasbord restaurant nearby.

What we liked:

This is a low-key, great way to view Christmas lights.  There are trains that depart constantly and it opens as early as 5pm for younger ones.  You don't have to wait in a long line or order tickets way in advance like some other Christmas trains or festivities.  

Also it is extremely affordable.  The train costs around $3 per person and they sell kid-friendly food such as hot dogs and grilled cheese sandwiches at a low price.  

The candy store sells delicious homemade chocolates, sweets and toys and offers a great place to escape from the cold outside.   The carousel is fun too with lots of lights.  You can take a picture with the whole family on Santa Claus's lap (if you'd like) and get a Polaroid picture as a souvenir. 

What we would change:

There really isn't a thing I'd change about this place, except wish it was a little closer.   But it is definitely worth the drive. 

Website and other important information:

www.meadowlights.net

Meadow Lights season starts on November 19th, 2010 and lasts until December 31st, 2010.

Hours of Operation (including the candy store):

Sunday through Thursday 5:00PM until 10:00PM
Friday and Saturday 5:00PM until 11:00PM

Santa Claus makes his special appearance from Thanksgiving night until Christmas Eve.

Pictures of the Christmas Lights' Displays.

Six Plates

What it is: Last weekend, a few other moms and I decided that we really needed to get out.  We were feeling a little more adventurous and decided to head a bit further afield than we normally do.  We had heard of Six Plates and decided to check it out.  Six Plates is a Tapas and Wine Bar that serves six small plates of food "hence the name" that pair with six different wines.  They also have numerous other wines to choose from.

Six Plates is hidden on the back side of some newer buildings across from Duke's West Campus off of Erwin Road.  I would never have known that it was back there.  Once inside, us mommies really didn't know what to do with ourselves on an evening out without diaper bags in an establishment without kiddie meals.  We were supposed to seat ourselves and head up to the bar to order all of our food and goodies.  We had a great time!  This place was nice and laid back so we felt like we could really sit back, catch up, and have an adult conversation without being pulled across the playground from one another or having to attend to the latest toddler catastrophe.  They had some live jazz music playing in the corner which was enough to be relaxing, but not enough to drown out conversation. 

The food and wine were also delicious.  Their food is somewhat upscale and combines ingredients that we would never think of pairing together, yet they were wonderful!  Some of our favorites were the flatbread covered with sweet potato puree and almonds, the carrot cake with goat and cream cheese frosting, and the flight of ice creams from Maple View Farms that we were able to choose ourselves.  Of course, the wines were also fabulous.

What we liked: Since we are a bit removed from the late night scene it was nice to be at a place that was a little more laid back.  We enjoyed having the evening to sit, relax, and talk with each other without feeling like we were rushed.  The food was also delicious and interesting to try.

What we would change: You just walk in and find a place to sit, so on a crowded evening it can be hard to find a place to sit.  In addition, the food and wine can be a bit expensive.


Website and other important information:

Website: http://www.sixplates.com/

Address: 2812 Erwin Rd, Durham, NC 27705

Phone Number: (919) 321- 0203

Hours: Monday-Saturday: 4pm-?? (The kitchen is open until midnight.)


Photos: 

(Our flatbread dish)

(A view from our couch)

Top Five Classes in the Area

This one was a close competition.  Looks like there are a lot of fantastic classes for kids in the area.  Finally, it looks like a top five has emerged from our poll, and these are your picks for top five classes in the area!  Stay tuned for another poll and another chance for our readers to vote on their local favorites.

1. Gymboree

2. Stage Door Dance

3. Kindermusik with Catherine

4. Music with Mar


5. The Little Gym

Portrait Innovations

What it is: It's officially that time of year again.  I noticed that Renaissance Center by Southpoint already had it's holiday garland up and the weather has a nice chill in the air.  The holidays are almost here.  And with the holidays for our family comes holiday and Christmas card photos.  Portrait Innovations is a great place to get either or both at a very reasonable price.  You can head in with the family, get countless different poses in two different outfit and background changes.  Then, you can look at your pictures on a big screen and crop them and add effects as desired.  Then, pick the poses that you want, have them printed while you wait, and take them home that day.  You can even get packages for as low as $9.95 with no sitting fee.  (Their $9.95 package includes 1-10x13, 1-8x10, 4-5x7, 4-3x5, and 32 wallet sized pictures as well as 9 free holiday cards.)  The photographers are educated in their field and knowledgeable as well as friendly and good with kids, we've had a great experience everytime (and we've been 10 times already since my two year old son was born!)

**Disclaimer-I do have family members that work for Portrait Innovations, so we definitely have a connection.  However, the pictures are really wonderful and I don't hesitate to recommend them to any of my friends or family that need pictures.  Almost all of the Stir Crazy Moms have headed over there at one time or another and gotten great pictures of their kids!

What we liked: We love the reasonable cost for the quality and amount of pictures that you get.  I don't know of anywhere else where you can get so many, high quality pictures for the price.  Since their Christmas Cards are also so reasonable it's a great place to get them done.  In addition, I like how many poses your able to do.  They just keep snapping pictures until they get a good one and since the camera isn't sitting on a tripod they are really flexible.  My favorite part is the fact that you can see your pictures immediately after you take them, pick them out, and take them home that day!  It's no fun having a to wait for your pictures after you take them.

What we would change: As with all portrait studios, they can get incredibly busy around the holidays.  So, my recommendation would be to get holiday pictures done as soon as possible.  In addition, in our experience, we have the best time when we make the first appointment of the day on a weekday so you don't have to wait for everyone else in front of you and the kids and the photographers are both at their freshest.

Website and other important information:

Website: http://www.portraitinnovations.com/

Address: 7001 Fayetteville Rd # 101, Durham, NC 27713-9643 (They also have another studio in Cary and many others throughout the state.)

Phone Number: (919) 806-1085

Hours: Open Tue-Sun 9am-6pm **Call ahead to book your appointment.

Photos: 

Dunkin' Donuts

What it is: Dunkin' Donuts is a donut store that can be found in many, many different locations, especially on the east coast.  We were thrilled to see one open in South Durham because there aren't many places in our part of Durham to get our donut fix.  This Dunkin' Donuts, just as other locations, offers donuts, breakfast sandwiches, and a variety of coffee beverages.  Since the store is smaller, their selection of donuts is smaller, but what they have is delicious. 


What we liked: From the perspective of a mommy, this location is a great place to head to before a morning playdate.  You can stop through the drive thru and pick up some coffees or other specialty beverages for the moms and some munchkins (donut holes) for the kids (who am I kidding, they're for the moms too!).  You can by just a few munchkins or boxes of 25 or 50 depending on the size of your playgroup's sweet tooth.  We have also found Dunkin' Donuts a great after the grocery store treat since it is located right next to Harris Teeter.  My son is as good as gold in the grocery store with the promise of a sweet treat at Dunkin' coming afterward.


What we would change: We have had several times when we've stopped by in the morning and they've already been out of certain flavors on munchkins, so they are popular.  In addition, the line can be long at times.

Website and other important information:

Website: https://www.dunkindonuts.com/

Address: 1125 W NC Hwy 54, Suite 54, Durham, NC 27707

Phone Number: (919) 403-6666

Hours: 5am-11pm Daily