Cares Child Aviation Restraint System

Tis the season of holiday travels, and we just got back from a long journey to visit our family.  The journey included several plane flights including one that I had to make by myself with my two boys.  I had to tell everyone about this discovery that made my journey SOOO much easier!  I don't normally include things like this for the blog, but it was so helpful I wanted to let everyone know.

What it is: I was debating whether or not I would bring car seats on the planes for my boys to sit in.  I had tried this once before and lugging the car seat onto the airplane where I didn't feel like it fit securely in his seat what extremely difficult.  However, I knew my boys, especially my youngest wiggle worm needed something in addition to the airplane seat belt.  Than, I stumbled upon the CARES harness.  Apparently it's the only FAA approved harness, and it is made specifically for airplanes.  It is a simple harness that you can fit in the diaper bag.  When you get on the plane, you can slip it over your child's seat and it turns the seat and existing seat belt into a five-point harness like you would find on your car seat.  It's easy to install and then your child is cozy and protected just like they are in a car seat!

What we liked: I didn't have to lug my car seat onto the plane!  The harness was easy to install, much easier than installing the car seat in the airplane seat.  Plus, they don't even charge the baggage fees to check car seats!

What we would change: They were fairly expensive to purchase.  However, I feel like it was definitely worth it! In addition, airplane tickets are expensive, and you must purchase a seat for your child in order to use the harness.

Website and other important information:

Website: http://www.kidsflysafe.com/

Carolina Rollergirls

What it is:  Last week, we took our toddlers to see roller derby.  It wasn't an obvious choice for kids, and perhaps the sport was a little over the head of my youngest son, but my older son was fascinated as, I think, most older kids would be.  Carolina Rollergirls is a roller derby team that plays in Dorton Arena at the state fairgrounds.  If you've never been to a derby competition, it's definitely a lot of fun.  I don't know how adept I will be at explaining the rules, but fortunately, your tickets come with a program describing the rules.  As far as I can understand, the girls on the team skate around the track.  Then, one member from each team tries to pass as many members of the other team as she can and earns points for doing so.  You can either sit in the stands or bring folding chairs and sit down on the floor for a closer view of the action.  (We chose the stands to keep little toddlers from running out onto the track.)  They had a concession stand selling typical concession stand food and a couple of bake sale table to raise money for breast cancer research.

What we liked: It is a sporting event, and like all sporting events they're interesting for kids to watch and be exposed to.  I think this would be perfect for a girl that's a little older, about 5 and older, to see.  You don't get as much of an opportunity to see women in sporting events with crowds cheering them on.  In Roller Derby you get to see strong women which I think is a good thing for young girls and young boys to see.

What we would change:  For younger toddlers with little attention spans it can be difficult to keep them focused. My youngest spent most of the time climbing the stairs of Dorton Arena finding every dirty corner he could to stick his hands in.  In addition, some of the names of the players and attire can be a bit mature, but it was still a family-friendly event with lots of kids in the stands.

Website and other important information: 

Website: http://www.carolinarollergirls.com/

Address: DDorton Arena, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh

Ticket Prices: $5-10

Photos:

(A close up view of the action)

(A view of the whole competition)

Pullen Park

What it is: We love this park in Raleigh!  It has been closed for renovations for a couple of years and this past weekend it opened back up, complete with fabulous new improvements.  We decided to head on over and see what it was like.  When our family arrived the first thing we noticed was the wooded fields interspersed with picnic shelters, a great place for a midday picnic lunch with space for toddlers to run.  Our destination, however, was the renovated area.  We walked up and saw the new playground.  It was great!  It had two distinct areas, one for toddlers and one for older children.  Both areas were interesting, full of different and fun play structures.  They had rope nets to climb, sandboxes, and even a few see saws!  We wish we had more time to explore the playgrounds because the kids could have spent days exploring it all.

Afterward we went and bought tickets for the train.  That's right, they have a little train who's track encircles the park, similar to the Museum of Life and Science train.  Tickets cost only $1 per person!  In there's addition, the tickets are only $1 for the kiddie boat rides near the train as well as the newly renovated indoor carousel! Very reasonable!  In addition, tickets were only a little more to enjoy the paddleboats on the nearby pond.  In addition, the hours of these attractions were weekdays from 10am-6pm, so there's plenty of time to stop by and enjoy everything.  We only took the train, so we're looking forward to heading back and checking out the other fun.

While we were buying tickets, we noticed the other more practical amenities like the heated restrooms and the new cafe.  We were a little bummed that we had brought our lunch because the cafe looked WAY above and beyond your typical park concession stand.  Everything they had looked well thought out and yummy, 

including their Vietnamese-style Bahn-mi sandwiches and hummus as a healthy snack.  

What we liked:  We loved all of the new renovations and can't wait to head back on a weekday when it's not crowded with grand-reopening visitors!  We especially liked the cost of the tickets.  At $1 per person, it's a reasonable expense on most park outings!  In addition, the playground had so much to do, and the cafe looked like it had a great selection.  Plus, the parking was easy and right next to the park.

What we would change: The only thing we would change is the fact that it is in Raleigh, a little bit of a hike from Durham, but well worth it!

Website and other important information:

Website: http://www.raleighnc.gov/arts/content/PRecRecreation/Articles/PullenPark.html

Address:  520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC 27606

Hours: 10am-6pm Daily

Photos: 

 1. One view of the newly renovated playground

 2. The train

 3. The carousel

 4. A view of the paddle boat lake

4. The toddler playground

Thanksgiving 2011-Tornado Follow-Up

 **I hope everyone is having a lovely Thanksgiving.  We wanted to pass along this post from Discovering the Southern Part of Heaven for an update on the recovery efforts from the Tornado this April.  Thanks to all local blog readers for your generosity and thanks to Lynne for sharing.

As we celebrate today  with family and friends, we are very aware that so many in our community are still struggling to rebuild from the storm of April 16, 2011.  We are especially thankful for the readers who contributed an overwhelming number of toys and books to the drive started by the Durham Mom you will read about below, and our friends at Notes from a Mom in Chapel Hill, the Stir Crazy Moms of Durham, and Tarheel Takeout, for helping to spread the word about that drive. 

Today's post comes from Lynne, one of those who volunteered on the ground in Stonybrook. 

East Coast weather isn’t known to spawn a large number of tornadoes. I used to watch the Midwest in awe and fear when tornadoes devastated entire towns. But my perspective changed April 16, 2011 when a series of tornadoes (at least 8, possibly more) tore across an area of NC that spanned hundreds of miles. Just in my state the tornadoes killed 23 people; the weather system was blamed for a total of 43 deaths across 7 states. This “family of tornadoes” were all part of one thunderstorm system that created new rotating updrafts in succession. Almost no warning, no sirens, no time to react.

On that Saturday afternoon, tornadoes had literally traveled all around my house (as close as 10 miles away). I felt that I was left undamaged but with a purpose. Like other concerned citizens, I watched and read everything I could online and on television. I was glued to social media and the Internet, every story pulling at my heartstrings to urge me – and others - to contribute. This is the long way of saying I became involved with Stony Brook North Mobile Home Park in Raleigh, NC.

Stony Brook was the site where three children (3, 8, and 9) were killed instantly when a tree fell on their mobile home, while they were huddled in a closet. A fourth child, a 6 month-old girl in her mother’s arms, died a few days later. Over half of the 200 homes were deemed unlivable, due in part to the large trees that made the area so quaint in happier times. The sad fact that so much devastation occurred in NC left relief organizations scampering to spread themselves over a huge area, and Stony Brook needed more help. Many residents did not speak enough English to navigate the FEMA paperwork or had no family nearby (in a state of shock after such an event, I doubt even I could decipher federal documents without assistance). In stepped volunteers mobilized with large trucks, manpower, and, most importantly, desire. I met many new people from different walks of life that day. I must mention their work because without it Stony Brook would still be floundering. What they did – and continue to do – is selfless and makes me proud to live in the Triangle. A list of the volunteer organizations I worked with is at the bottom, although it is not a complete list.

Volunteer champion and a fellow Durham Mothers Club member , Kim Johnson is featured here to explain how residents from Stony Brook received aid.

If you’re reading this blog (or have been funneled here through others), chances are you also identify with these events. First, I must back up and explain myself. I had the privilege to visit the Stony Brook site twice: once on Good Friday 6 days after the tornadoes and another almost 7 months later (early November). This part of the story starts it all. Friends have asked me what it was like. It is incredibly hard to describe. The images from my first visit: a soggy, rainy holiday in April, are forever burned into my mind. The makeshift tents formed a small shantytown to protect the donated clothes and the valuable computers used to log in residents’ damages. The smell of pine from on-site tree mulching was overwhelming. The scene was so horrific and depressing that I only took one picture. ONE. It was of a twisted, partially fallen tree. I couldn’t bring myself to photograph houses, or people, or the general scene. But I didn’t need a picture, because I knew I would never forget it. I felt it improper to be taking pictures when a fellow human’s possessions were in their front yards and the homes that were left had huge gashes, trees splintering the insides, and broken glass on the ground.
This YouTube video will show you a glimpse of the aftermath.

These groups were at Stony Brook solving problems and connecting families with resources all over the Triangle.

Centro Internacional de Raleigh (I will talk more about CIR and the great work they’re doing with over 100 families at Stony Brook in Part II).

The NC Baptist Men (includes women, too):

Multiple faith based groups

Countless interpreters from Wake County and private organizations

The American Red Cross, Triangle chapter

Countless other groups provided food and support so that the process of identification and support could move swiftly. I especially need to thank the Starbucks on Capital Blvd near Brentwood Rd who donated and gladly refilled huge containers of drinks and stuffed bags full of pastries for residents and volunteers. I feel horrible that I have not said “thank-you” until now. That day I felt that so many others were behind me, taking away the cold wind gusts and pelting rain while I tried to do my part.

Note: Part II of our story will continue next week with an update on Stony Brook now, plus a look at one family and how they are still putting the pieces back together after a series of hardships that began with the tornado.

any photos and names included were taken and printed with permission.

To help with ongoing efforts, please contact Centro Internacional de Raleigh.

The New and Improved Kidzu

What it is:  We've already told you about Kidzu before, the great children's museum in Chapel Hill full of hands-on fun for kids to explore. However, several months ago, Kidzu closed to begin construction on their new larger location.  This past weekend, they finally opened up their temporary location in University Square shopping area on Franklin St., and we are thrilled that they are back! 

Basically, Kidzu has most of the same exhibits that they had before from the blocks to the large kitchen area.  So, check out our previous post for all of the details on what they have.  There were several new additions including a row of animal puppets along the wall, a farm area, and and expanded drawing and art area.

What we liked:  We love the fact that Kidzu is back!  It's always a great rainy day or any day option.  I also liked that the area for younger kids was physically separated from the rest of the museum, so the older kids wouldn't be as tempted to join in on their fun!


What we would change: With the large windows on one side, we felt like it got a bit hot in the museum.  However, the windows did bring in a lot of brightness. 


Website and other important information:

Website: http://www.kidzuchildrensmuseum.org/

Address: 123 (Suite B) W. Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, NC 27516

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday:  10am-5pm, Sunday 1pm-5pm, Monday closed

Photos: 

1. Their new cozy book area with the light coming in from their large windows

Scratch Bakery

What it is: So, we've been hearing about the infamous donut muffins for months now.  So we had to head over to Scratch Bakery in downtown Durham to check out the deliciousness for ourselves.  Scratch is a small bakery located on Orange St. in downtown right next door to The Fun Zone and across the street from Dos Perros.  We headed over on a rainy morning this week to investigate.  They had several delicious pastries in cases for us to drool over, some savory, some sweet.  But of course, our eyes went right towards the donut muffins, coated in sugar and waiting in a bowl for us to pick several out.  They also had coffee and a lunch menu with soups and sandwiches that looked tasty, but we will have to check those out next time.  The bakery was filled with people chatting or working on computers. There were no other kids in the bakery at that time, but everyone else didn't seem to mind us sticking around to eat.  The donut muffins were only around $2 per muffin so we sampled both the chocolate and buttermilk.  They were a delicious treat on a rainy day, and we can't wait to stop back by soon.

What we liked:  We loved their delicious donut muffins so I'm imagining that the other goodies they have to offer are equally yummy.  We liked their proximity to The Fun Zone, so if their hours overlap, maybe on the weekend, you might be able to drop your kids off at The Fun Zone and enjoy a child free meal right next door at Scratch (You'll have to check everyone's hours to see if this would really work out.) 

What we would change:  The seating wasn't the kid-friendliest.  I felt that we were too close to other patrons that were trying to work in their nearby table.  My toddler kept trying to strike up a conversation with the girl working at the table next to us.  However, there were tables that were more convenient for kids and high chairs, but they were taken when we were there.  In addition, there's a parking lot right in front of Scratch, but I think it's only available for the public on the weekends.  I tried to go in their and get a ticket when we went, and we couldn't get a ticket.  However, I was able to snag a parallel parking spot nearby.

Website and other important information:

Website: http://piefantasy.com/ 

Address: 111 Orange St, Durham, NC 27701

Hours: Tuesday-Friday: 7:30am-4pm, Saturday-Sunday: 9am-3pm

Photos:

 1. DONUT MUFFINS!

 2. Inside the bakery

3. A view from the outside

November Giveaway-and the winner is...

We are happy to announce that we have a winner for our fantastic giveaway to the Museum of Life and Science!  Our winner is...Jana Parks.  Jana commented, "My son just asked 2 go the other day. We love that there r so many things 2 do - dinosaur trail and dig, butterflies, sailboats, etc. Would also like 2 see the race exhibit."  If this is you, just e-mail us at scmomsgroup@gmail.com and we will set you up with your tickets.  For everyone else, thank you so much for being our fantastic readers!  Just wait and see what our December giveaway will be!

The Outer Banks

Every once in a while, we like to include some ideas for kid-friendly getaways.  I know that my husband and I have always loved to travel.   However, since we've had kids, trips have gotten more difficult.  One of the major reasons is cost.  It wasn't too bad to buy plane tickets for my husband and I.  However, four plane tickets is a bit more difficult and expensive.  So, we've been including some ideas for getaways that are driveable and doable in a weekend or long weekend.  Here's our latest adventure, enjoy!

What it is: The Outer Banks is one of my favorite places in North Carolina or anywhere.  It is technically the series of barrier islands on the coast of NC.  There's so much to do, but we'll only focus on a few things that we found fun for families with kids.  Our first kid-friendly destination was the Wright Memorial in Kill Devil Hills.  I have to say that this wasn't particularly interesting for our younger toddlers.  However, kids that are a little older and can really understand what happened there, that the first airplane flew at that location, would find the place fascinating.  They have models of the gliders, rocks marking the flight distances, and a hill with a large statue for the kids to play around.  The distances are a bit large for toddler feet, so keep that in mind.

Our next stop was the beach!  We headed a few miles down the road from The Wright Memorial to the beaches at Nags Head.  Even though we went in this fall and the kids couldn't get in the water, they had a great time running around, digging in the sand, picking up the large shells that had drifted ashore, and watching the waves.  I loved the fact that since we went in the off-season the beaches were practically deserted!

My ultimate favorite place in the Outer Banks is Jockey Ridge State Park which again was only a few miles away from the Wright Brothers Memorial.  It is a beautiful sand dune park that is just breathtaking.  It feels like your wandering through the Sahara only without the heat!  From the tops of the dunes the views are amazing.  Kids can watch the kites soaring, the hang gliders jumping off the dunes (an activity I highly recommend for adults), digging in more sand than they've ever seen, rolling down the dunes, or sledding through the sand.  My favorite was watching the kids just run and not having to worry about where they were because the sand just stretched on forever, beautiful!

Another stop on our trip was the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island.  This is just across the sound from all of the sights we just mentioned.  Since it was off season, we basically had the aquarium all to ourselves and it was great!  Plus, since we have an NC Zoo membership, our admission was free!  We saw huge sharks, colorful fish, sea horses, moray eels, turtles, otters, and alligators.  We were able to touch sea urchins, starfish, and even sting rays. (my three year old felt very brave when he did that.)  They also had an outdoor section with beautiful views of the sound.

Outer Banks is known for its lighthouses.  We only went to one on this trip, however we've visited others in the past, pre-kids.  Our sons just loved looking up at the huge towering structure and hearing about what it was used for.  I'm sure kids would like climbing them as well.  However, I read that there are some height requirements for climbing them, so make sure to check that out before visiting.  There are also wild ponies to spot, delicious laid back, kid-friendly eateries, and much much more to entertain families while at the Outer Banks.  I have to say that the Outer Banks Brewing Station was especially fun because they have a pirate ship and fenced in play area in the back so you can sit on a picnic table and enjoy your locally made beer or root beer while your child plays.  Their food was delicious and kid-friendly.  Plus, it's the only wind-powered brewery that I've ever been to!

If you've been to the Outer Banks and have any fun activities or insights to share please comment and let us know!


What we liked: We loved the laid back feel of the Outer Banks and all the ways to get out and explore the outdoors, and while I'm sure it is great in the summer too we loved going to check it out in the off season when everything was not quite as crowded.  Plus, we were able to get there in about 4 hours which is not too far away for a weekend excursion.


What we would change: One of the negatives to going in the off season is that some of the restaurants and attractions are closed.  However, we still found plenty to do.  In addition, we felt that the Wright Memorial was a bit expensive with admission charged for each person in your car.

Website and other important information: 

Website: http://www.outerbanks.org/

Jockey Ridge: http://www.jockeysridgestatepark.com/

Wright Memorial: http://www.nps.gov/wrbr/index.htm

Lighthouses: http://www.outerbanks.org/attractions/lighthouses/

NC Aquarium: http://www.ncaquariums.com/roanoke-island

Photos: 

 (Wright Brothers Memorial)

 (Beautiful Outer Banks Beaches)

 (Jockey Ridge State Park)

(My boy and I running through the dunes and Jockey Ridge)

Couch 2 5K

I am currently sitting here preparing to run my first marathon tomorrow, yikes!  I was thinking back to a couple of years ago when I couldn't even run a mile.  I was also thinking how great it is for me to have running as a release and something I do just for myself.  As a mom, I don't have many moments to myself, and running is something I can squeeze into my schedule to help me stay sane  So, I thought I would share with everyone the plan that helped me get to the point where I could run a 5K.  This is something that most moms could do, even if they don't feel like they can run at all.  If I could get to this point, then lots of non-runners can. (Let's hope I survive the marathon tomorrow!)

What it is: There are lots of websites and plans out there now which take you from the "couch to a 5k".  The website that I used is one of the originals.  It gives you a plan to take you through three run/walks a week and gives you nine weeks to train to run a whole 5K!

What we liked: The nice thing about this plan is the intervals that you run are given in time intervals or distance intervals so you can pick the way that works for you.  It also starts you completely from the beginning, so you don't have to have any running experience to get started. Plus, it's a completely free training plan. I really enjoy being able to exercise and feel a sense of accomplishment without taking the time or money to go to a gym.  Running has been perfect for me as a mom because I can squeeze it in in the morning or at night easily or even take the kids in a stroller for a jog during the day. 

What we would change: Couch 2 5K doesn't really have any way to extend the plan if you feel like you need more runs at a certain level.  My best advice would be to repeat a week if you feel you need more practice before moving on.

Website: http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml

Crosswinds Cafe at RDU-Indoor Plane Watching

What it is:

Crosswinds Café is a wonderful (and comfortable) large space to enjoy watching planes at the RDU airport while enjoying a comforting snack from INSIDE! My boys absolutely love watching the planes come in and take off at the outside park, but on a cold and windy day, the Crosswinds Café was perfect! The café feeds pilots, travelers, as well as folks that simply love watching planes. The panoramic views are fantastic!

What we liked:

It was cozy and roomy and the people were very friendly. I had two toddlers with me and we weren’t always as quiet as I would’ve liked, but the people working there did not seem to mind our “enthusiasm”. It was almost lunch time so we did not actually order a snack, but I ventured over to see a variety of small to larger snacks as well as beverage choices. The views were amazing and the boys would’ve been happy to stay there for hours. Also, bathrooms were nearby and very clean. Finally, parking was a breeze. I noticed only a couple of spaces marked for the café, but was told that I could park on either side of the gated entrances for free (up to four hours). Yay!

What we would change:

The runway we overlooked was mostly private jets and there wasn’t as much coming an going on this runway compared to the other side. However, we did see several smaller planes as well as a couple larger jets land. It may have been the time of day, but there were less planes coming and going. However, lots of workers to watch and lots of equipment moving around- all of which keep a toddler very curious and interested!

Website and other important information

Website:   www.crosswindscafe.com.

Crosswinds Cafe
Location: General Aviation Terminal
Hours: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. (closed weekends)
Phone: (919) 840-7625

Address:  Crosswinds is located in the airport's general aviation terminal on East International Drive near the Air Traffic Control Tower.

To get there from I-40, follow signs to the airport terminals. Drive past Terminal A and turn right onto W. International Drive. Follow signs to General Aviation.

From US 70, take Exit 293 onto Lumley Road. The airport entrance will be on your left. Turn left into the airport on Commerce Drive. This becomes International Drive. Follow signs for General Aviation.

Photos: 

November Giveaway-Museum of Life and Science!

We didn't want to make you wait until the end of November for this fabulous giveaway, so here's our November giveaway a little earlier in the month.  Everyone in Durham LOVES The Museum of Life and Science, so what could be better for a giveaway? 

This month Stir Crazy Moms and the Museum of Life and Science are offering tickets for a family of four to the Museum of Life and Science AND their special Carolina Wonderland Express exhibit which opened this weekend!  So, not only can your family enjoy all the wonderful sights and experiences that the museum has to offer you can also check out the Wonderland Express.  In this 2200 square foot indoor exhibit, model trains on more than 340 feet of track chug through a wintery wonderland including many famous sights in North Carolina including Kitty Hawk and the Blue Ridge Parkway.  Check out their description below for all the details.

So, if you would like to win this awesome giveaway simply comment on this post on blogger or facebook.  Let us know what's your favorite part of the Museum of Life and Science or if you've never been, simply let us know what you're looking forward to.  Follow us on facebook, twitter, or blogger and let us know that you do for an extra entry for each.  The giveaway will run from now until next Tuesday at midnight, so happy entering!

CELEBRITY TRAIN CHUGGING THROUGH A WINTERY NORTH CAROLINA STARTING THIS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5

(DURHAM – NC) The Museum of Life and Science in Durham is unveiling its Carolina Wonderland Express exhibition this Saturday, November 5. This handcrafted exhibition made of natural materials and designed by the award-winning artisans of Applied Imagination, is sure to immerse you in a magical world. Watch as model trains, including a popular celebrity train journey through a snowy Carolina, traversing mountains, crossing bridges and disappearing through tunnels.

Bells ring and whistles blow as trains chug along the Blue Ridge Parkway and journey to popular landmarks such as Kitty Hawk, the State Capitol Building, Jennette’s Pier, the Swinging Bridge and more. With more than 340 feet of track winding in and out of hills and valleys, this 2,200-square-foot, indoor holiday exhibition is sure to delight all ages.

The Museum of Life and Science in Durham is located at 433 W. Murray Avenue. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. An additional fee applies for the train exhibition. To see a sneak-peek video of the exhibition and for additional information, visit www.lifeandscience.org or call 919.220.5429.

YOUTUBE VIDEO

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvM3fPKuEOg&feature=youtu.be

McAllisters Deli

What it is: We were excited when the new McAllister's opened in the Rennaissance Center shopping area near Southpoint Mall.  It's great to have another kid-friendly option so nearby, and since it's the second one in Durham in addition to one in Chapel Hill there's one close to lots of our readers.  So, one day after another successful trip to Portrait Innovations in the same shopping center, we stopped by. 

McAllister's Deli has lots of delicious options for grown ups and kids alike.  For adults, there are a variety of soups, salads, and sandwiches as well as some of the largest fountain drinks around.  For kids there are lots of toddler friendly options such as mac and cheese, little individual pizzas, grilled cheese, or peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.  Most of the kids options come with chips or applesauce and Teddy Grahams as a little dessert treat.  However, our kids' pizza did not come with the side, so make sure and double check. 

What we liked:  The food was delicious, and the kids liked the food, especially the Teddy Grahams.  They also had the option of outdoor seating which we thought was a nice touch.  McAllister's is a good addition to the S. Durham kid-friendly dining options. (We have also heard that the 15-501 location offers a kids eat free night with paying adult on Mondays after 4pm.  Does anyone know if this location offers the same perk?)

What we would change: We didn't have the best service at this new location.  However, we've never had that experience before at McAllisters.  Perhaps they are just working out some of the kinks in their new restaurant operation.

Website and other important information:

Website: http://www.mcalistersdeli.com/

Address: 6807 Fayetteville Rd, Ste 117, or 5218 New Hope Commons Dr.



 

Oakwood Park

We love the fact that we're seeing new playground equipment going up at several local parks!  We already told you about Old Chapel Hill Road Park in Durham, and now Chapel Hill following suit with a great renovation at Oakwood Park.  We headed over last week to check it out, and here's our report.

What it is: Oakwood Park is really pretty close to Durham, just a quick jaunt down Hwy. 54, turn right before you get to the intersection with 15-501, and there you are!  We were a little thrown off because google maps directed us to turn right on Oakwood Dr off of Hwy 54, but that is a one way street going the wrong way. So, if you are coming from that direction on 54, go past Oakwood Dr. to Hamilton instead and you can backtrack to the park with a right turn from Hamilton onto Berkley Rd.

Now, to the fun part.  Once we did find the park it was awesome!  One of the greatest parts was that there was a fence all the way around.  So, even though it was right next to the street, the fences kept our little ones contained.  Our three year-olds favorite part was definitely the see-saw.  That's right, it was a modern see-saw, and the kids spent most of their time riding on it, going up and down.  They also had a large play structure with slides and bars, and some swings  There was a nice sandbox in the middle where my youngest son spent most of his time.  It was right next to the picnic tables.

They had a little play structure with rings to climb through on the other end of the playground which both my little and bigger kids enjoyed.    While not part of the playground itself, just on the other side of the fence at the back of the playground in someone's backyard was a little chicken coop.  It was far enough away that the kids couldn't get their fingers pecked, but close enough that the kids got a real kick out of watching them.

What we liked:  We loved the fence.  It was great that the kids could just run around and play without fears of them running out in the street.  In addition, the see saw was a great unique feature that we haven't really seen at any other local playgrounds.  The kids just loved it!

What we would change: They did have a lot of different playground surfaces in one playground: mulch, gravel, sand, etc.  We thought they might get mixed up after lots of kids running through the playground.  Not a big deal, but it was the only negative we could think of!

Website and other important information:

Website: http://www.ci.chapel-hill.nc.us/index.aspx?page=1588

Address: 20 Oakwood Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27517 

 **We weren't the only ones checking out this great new park.  Mom in Chapel Hill also checked it out recently and posted her review on Friday.  She also let us know that the park is having its grand re-opening celebration today, November 5 at 10am. Thanks, Mom in Chapel Hill!

Photos:  

 (The smaller play area)

 (a view of the larger play area)

(Another view from the back of the playground)

The Chocolate Door

As we continued on our Franklin St. adventure, we had one more stop before we made it all the down to Carrboro.  We headed down to The Chocolate Door for a little sweet treat, and it didn't disappoint.  We headed in and it was a very small shop with one small display case and table behind it.  You could look into the other room beyond the counter into the kitchen where they make their delicious treats.  The table had a seasonal display of goodies including homemade marshmallows.  The display case was filled with delicious goodies including truffles and bark that looked beautiful.  The flavors were also very unique including Mayan chocolate, pomegranate, and chocolate bacon.


What we liked: We loved the quality chocolates made right there in their little shop.  In addition, they have kids themselves, so they had a little playpen at the front of the store.  This kept my boys happily occupied while my husband and I drooled over the chocolate display.  The Chocolate Door is a great place for a yummy sweet treat after a great meal on Franklin St.


What we would change: The one negative was that the kitchen was open to the rest of the store.  My roaming toddler did try to roam back into the working kitchen at times.  Not a good plan.


Website and other important information:

Website: http://www.chocolatedoornc.com/

Address: 516 W. Franklin St. Chapel Hill, NC

Phone Number: 919-240-7290

Hours: Sunday & Monday-closed, Tuesday-Saturday 11-8

Photos: 

 (The display case)

 (more goodies)

 (The play pen)