Featured Organization Friday: iWalk for ACTS

This sounds like a fun one.  Action in the Community Through Service (ACTS) is a mainstay in the Prince William County nonprofit scene.  They've been helping people in our area for as long as I can remember.  One of my first volunteer memories is helping with Operation Turkey, and another shortly after that was feeding people dinner at the emergency shelter with Girl Scouts.  ACTS is holding their 3rd Annual iWalk for ACTS to benefit families in need on Saturday, October 19th in Merchant's Park in Dumfries.  After the walk there's a FREE Family Festival with games, moonbounces, face painting, clowns, obstacle courses, free food, and more.  This definitely sounds like a great day for the family.

Don't wait until October, though! Sign up now for a family rate of $50, or, you can sign up as a fundraiser and get those in your life to help you sponsor this great walk!

ACTS runs a food pantry, homeless prevention shelter, domestic violence shelter, helpline and more.  They're a 4-Star Charity Navigator organization (remember- know who you're supporting!!) You can also support ACTS through the United Way: United Way NCA Designation Code: 8001

Combined Federal Campaign Number (CFC): 21878

Guest Post: Saying Thank You to our Military & Veterans

            This summer my AHG troop VA0428 participated in some really neat service projects.  I want to share them not to brag about what we did but instead to spread the word about some great opportunities.  Both opportunities are about honoring our military or veterans.  You do not need a group to participate in these opportunities, though prior coordination with the people that run the event is necessary.

            Operation Welcome Home (OWH).  Baltimore Washington International airport (BWI) is a major hub for returning military from their deployments.  The military that come through here are touching US soil for the first time since they left for their deployment.  Many will then make connecting flights to go to their home bases all over the US.  Some of them have their homes in the MD/DC/VA area.  OWH gives the returning military a hero’s welcome home.  There are two ways to help: 1. send thank you cards to OWH for them to distribute, or 2. go to BWI to volunteer.  When you volunteer for an OWH event, you help with three things: 1. decorate the airport (OWH has decorations), 2. assemble goody bags for troops, and 3. greet, cheer, and thank military members as they come out of the gate.

            This quote says it all:

"OWHMD Volunteers:

The greatest moment of my 7-month deployment to Afghanistan was being greeted by you at BWI. The best gift for a returning servicemember is a simple "Thank You" and a handshake.   You'll never know how much your time spent at the airport means to us, but please accept my deepest appreciation for what you do."

(signed) LtCol James H., USAF, Phoenix, Arizona"

For more information or to find a date to go to a welcome home greeting, please go to their website: http://www.operationwelcomehomemd.org

            Honor Flight.  Honor Flight’s mission is to fly veterans back to DC to visit their war memorial.  One thousand World War II veterans die every day.  The majority of Honor Flight missions fly into Reagan Airport.  The veterans fly in to DC in the morning, go see the war memorials and Arlington National Cemetery and then fly back home that evening.  What the local Honor Flight does is give these veterans a surprise hero’s greeting when they arrive in DC.  These veterans served our country and then came home and went back to regular life without any thank you.

            In June when we went to participate with Honor Flight at Reagan, we welcomed 90 World War II and Korean War veterans.  The looks on their faces when they walked out of the gate was priceless.  They had no idea we’d be there, cheering for them, and thanking them.  Not one of the 90-80 year olds had dry eyes.  We gave our full names and birthdates to the point of contact a few days ahead of time so that we could go inside security to participate in the gate greeting.  It was definitely worth it!  You may bring patriotic thank you posters and thank you cards to give out.  After the gate greeting, we went outside to wave to their buses as they left.  Later a couple families went to the memorials to visit more with the veterans.  The veterans were extremely appreciative. 

            This is a great experience for people of any age.  The organizers were excited when I told them I homeschooled.  They said they had wanted to tap into homeschool groups.  Unfortunately during the public school year, they often have no one show up for the surprise gate greetings for the Honor Flights that are during the week.

            There is a great movie, “Honor Flight” that documents an Honor Flight from Wisconsin.  In it, you hear from World War II veterans about what Honor Flight meant to them.  I would highly recommend watching the movie to help your children understand the importance and meaning of this.  For information on the movie:  http://www.honorflightthemovie.com

            Honor Flights take place Aug-Nov and then start back up in the spring.  For information on participating in an Honor Flight event, please go to: http://honorflightdca.wordpress.com

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Carrie Kilareski is a local military wife, mom, and homeschooler.  Thanks for the great information, Carrie! 

Giveaway: A Baby Affair Expo (September 15, 2013)

Are you a new mom or mom-to-be?  Join the best collection national and consumer vendors as they gather together for the second annual A Baby Affair expo.  This year’s event will take place on September 15, 2013 at the National Children’s Museum.

During the event you can stroll through exhibitor booths, view product demos, treat yourself to luxurious pampering, attend an information session with celebrity experts, watch a maternity fashion show, taste delicious fare, and receive tips, prizes, and a valuable gift bag.  Connect with local boutiques and stores such as Apple Seed Maternity, Baby Blossom, and Dawn Price Baby.  Celebrity author Latham Thomas will be in attendance offering tips and signing her newest book Mama Glow. Check out the area’s finest newborn photographers, child care agencies, entertainment and health and wellness experts. Plus, national brands such as Giggle, Happy Family Brands Food, and Buy Buy Baby will be on site with products, samples, and prizes. View an extended list of exhibitors here. Kids under five are admitted for free, and there will be onsite childcare with fun activities provided by Nannytainment. 

 A Baby Affair delivers modern moms tools and trends to help enjoy the ride, showcasing the best of the best resources for the most challenging and exciting period in their lives.

For a limited time, readers of this blog can receive discounted tickets at the rate of $10 by using code MOMSRULE. Also, enter below to win a PAIR OF TICKETS TO THE EVENT. 

More info at: http://www.ababyaffairdc.com. 

Want to go? Enter using the Rafflecopter below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway 

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Prize provided by Let Mommy Sleep.  PwcMoms is not responsible for event or content.  See our official rules here.  By entering, you agree to all rules, conditions, etc. 

Halloween Mini Sessions: BelaJuli Photography

Kids are so adorable in their costumes- especially the little ones! Capture the fun of your little one's Halloween with mini sessions from BelaJuli Photography.  They're offering two dates, October 6th (Sunday) and October 19th (Saturday), and you'll get a 30 minute session and 5 digital files for $55!

For more information, or to schedule, visit BelaJuli Photography on Facebook, or email MAZuero@BelaJuliPhotogrpahy.com!

PwcMoms Goes Mobile!

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UPDATE: The PwcMoms App is now available for Android 4.0+ smartphones and tablets.  Get it from Google Play!
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PwcMoms.com is proud to announce that we now have a mobile app available in the iOS App Store.

Due to the considerable time and resources required to create this app, we were unable to offer this app for free, but it is very inexpensive, and we think you will love it!

Our app is even better than our website, here's why... 

	Read our blog or visit our calendar with a user experience designed explicitly for your iPhone, iPad, or iPod.
	Be the first to hear about new posts and giveaways with blog post reminders.
	Never miss an event again with event reminders and turn-by-turn directions.
	It's easy, just tap an event, tap the Reminder button, choose your notification settings, and tap save.

... and it will get even better as we add new features!

PwcMoms - Keeping You & Your Family Busy

The Big Dig: Great Country Farms

Come with an empty stomach to The Big Dig on Saturday, August 31^st & Sunday, Sept 1^st at Great Country Farms.  Celebrate the end of summer with pancakes, potatoes, trucks and tractors as the Farm hands get into the dirt. The taste and texture of fresh potatoes is completely different from typical grocery store products that are often a year old. Kids can experience first-hand how to search for spuds by digging in our potato fields. If the weather permits, Farmer Mark’s tractor will rip a row and turn over fresh taters for easier picking. The Farm Market carries pre-picked farm produce including tomatoes, fruits, and other veggies along with locally produced meat and dairy products.

The day starts with pancakes hot off the griddle piled high and topped with delicious fruit syrups, juice and coffee. The All-You-Can Eat Pancake Breakfast runs till 11:30am and is included with admission.  The hayride will take you to the fields so you can dig potatoes and visit other U-Pick areas. The Farm posts updates of produce availability on its social media pages as weather conditions affect each crop differently.

Kids can romp all over the five acre playground and visit with the friendly farm animals or do some catch & release fishing. Picnic around our featured tractors and antique truck and take behind the wheel photos of all the family members. Leashed dogs are welcome and can run free in our off leash areas. The Roosteraunt is open from 9am-4pm.

The Big Dig event details:

$10/child & $12/adult includes Pancake Breakfast until 11:30am

Saturday, Aug 31^st and Sunday, Sept. 1^st 9am-6pm

Contact Jaclyn Jenkins jaclyn@greatcountryfarms.com 540-554-2073 GreatCountryFarms.com      

Business Review: Ticonderoga Farms

Most of the "fun farms" in Northern Virginia are in Loudon County and they take some time for me to get to from my side of Prince William.  However, while Ticonderoga Farms' address may be Chantilly, and while my friend from  Aldie told me it was "just a few minutes from her" (I consider Aldie to be the dark side of the moon from where we live!) it's actually just about 5 minutes from Manassas Battlefield, which is awesome!  Here's how that works:

Where A= Manassas Battlefield Park, B= Ticonderoga Farms and C=Aldie, VA

That's about the extent of the math you're gonna find here on PwcMoms.  It's not even that math-y, but I used equals signs, so we're gonna count it. 

I found Ticonderoga Farms to be really enjoyable.  I liked that it's shaded, I liked that it's not as crowded as some of the more well-known farms, and I think that it had a lot of good options for playing, especially for younger kids in the age Preschool-Grade 1 age range.  Let's take a photo tour, shall we?




There's a pond with a wiggly bridge over the top, which my boys loved.  If you stop in the middle and look hard into the water, there are little teeny tiny sunfish! This was, apparently, a HUGE deal. We looked at the tiny fish for a good five minutes.

 There are a few cutouts for you to take your picture on, and they were in the process of "Fall-ing" up the hayride space so it'd be ready for pumpkin season and Halloween.  I think the hayride will be very fun for those visiting in the fall.




There are a few antique firetrucks for kids to climb all over, and my daughter thought this was probably the most fun she'd ever had.  Watch for any nuts or bolts, but older kids will enjoy climbing up on top and younger kids will like "driving" the truck for a minute.

 Swings! And Trees! And Chickens running around!

One of the play structures- note that there's shade involved.  We also ate lunch on one of the picnic tables in the shade.  For my kids, this doesn't matter as much, but for me, who gets a sunburn on a cloudy day wearing SPF 80, it's a big deal :)  It looked like there was a snack bar that's probably open during festival weekends, but we packed our lunch and enjoyed a picnic.

 There are, of course, the requisite slides on a hill and there's a giant inflated pillow, for lack of a better word, that the kids can bounce around on.  Your socks will get dirty, but if it's too warm out and you go without them, the plastic can be a little warm on tiny toes, so I'd bring an old pair of socks, even if your kids are rocking the crocks.

 You know, as much as anyone can "rock" crocks.

We had a fun time and spent over three hours playing outside.  This is much more "farmy" than some of the farms you might think of, but we liked that, because it wasn't as crowded.  I think my oldest son might be getting slightly too old for places like this to be "cool" for him, but he did play nicely with his siblings, and he had fun looking at the fish and jumping on the pillow.

One note- there is a bamboo maze that is a serious maze.  I think my boys would've spent hours in there, but if you're going with young children, note that this isn't like a corn maze where you wander in one direction and come out, it's a real maze with multiple twists and turns.  I can see that being an issue if you've got a child who's potty training ;)

Here's what some of my readers had to say about Ticonderoga Farms:
we LOVE going there! so much fun!

Go there for Easter egg hunts during spring. I like that its not as crazy as Cox Farms and family owned.

 Also been to cut our own Christmas tree couple years ago. Plan on taking baby soon at the end of 

August & we always bring smore's fixings to make smores there.

We love it there!!! Love!!!! We can spend a whole day there.

We go every week because its where i pick up my CSA my daughter loves it there!!

 Ticonderoga Farms offers:
* Summer Harvest Festival, Spring Easter Festival, Fall Pumpkin Festival, and a Winter Festival
* A community garden for those who'd like to grow their own produce but don't have space
* A Farm Market  including organic eggs, local honey, produce, figs, and bamboo
* Fig groves and a fig festival
And more.  The farm is also working on a botanic garden, which, from what we could see from the road, looks amazing!

Admission depends on the time of year, but for summer is $8.95/person, and hours are 10am-5pm, all week long.  Field trips, group rates, and corporate/family parties are available.
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Disclaimer: PwcMoms was provided with free admission in return for providing a review.  All opinions are our own. All information is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date of publishing, but events/dates/times/offerings may change over time. Please see Ticonderoga Farms website for updated information and offerings. 

Week in Preview: August 19-25, 2013

**Sorry for the delay, guys! When I told this to auto-post I accidentally put in 2014 instead of 2013, so it would've been wicked on-time a year from now ;) I removed any Monday activities that it's too late to enjoy.  
-Kristina (who's both a blonde, and had brain surgery....pick your reason I messed up.) 

Pre-Register For:
1) Mommy Groups and Field Trips at Animated Child.  These are every Monday and offer a discount for large groups.  Be sure to get it on your playgroup calendar for fall!

2) Wednesday Preschool Classes at the Freedom Center.  They're on our calendar, but you need to sign up by 10pm tonight! Or, if this week's too busy, you can always register for next week.  These are special summer programs, so they end soon!

3) On Thursday, your older children might enjoy "Survival Training 101" at Leesylvania.  To register, or get more information, call 703-583-6904.

4) When's the last time you had a date night?  We've got kids night out on our calendar at Vertical Rock, Animated Child, Kids N Motion, All That Jazz!, and Gymnastics World this week (some weeks, there's more!) Sign up today so your child has a spot! Some of these businesses will cancel if there aren't enough kids by Wednesday or Thursday.

5) The ARC hosts an Autism Support Group NEXT week on Tuesday, and you need to RSVP for childcare.  The ARC of Prince William County facilitates an Autism Parent Support Group that meets the 4th Tuesday of each month. This parent-run group offers support, education, and social opportunities for families who have children (of any age) on the Autism spectrum. Child care is available. Call 703-730-3124 or email jrussell@arcgpw.org

Monday, August 19
This week, I added some of the "standing" county parks events to the calendar.  Things like the Fun Center at Locust Shade Park (batting cage, putt putt golf, driving range) and Paddle Boats/Kayak Rentals at Lake Ridge Park Marina.  They're not special events, but they're only open part of the year, so I hope you'll take advantage!

Tuesday, August 20
Tuesdays mean cheap movies, and we've got the ones at University Mall Theater and Manassas 4 Cinema on the calendar this week.  University Mall is showing Monsters University, Epic, and Hotel Transylvania in the G/PG ratings range, and tickets are $2.  Manassas 4 has Planes, and tickets are $5.

Also, you can join LLL Woodbridge for their monthly meeting.  Obviously, nursing children (and siblings) are welcome.  The meeting is at Grace Baptist (off Spriggs Road) at 10:30.  Also for moms, HOPE (for those who have lost an infant or a pregnancy) meets in the evening at 7pm at Church of the Word in Gainesville. For more information, you can contact RobinLSchroeder@verizon.net. 

At 5pm, have you tried Family Yoga at Soaring Spirit in Occoquan yet? Drop-in rate is $17 a class, or you can purchase a pass.

Wednesday, August 21
Mister Don will be at Stonebridge at 10am.  Don't forget to bring your own lawn chairs if you want them!

On the Bristow/Gainesville side? Check out Little Tots at 10:30, which will feature Reptiles Alive! which my kids LOVE (in fact, if you follow the link, that's my kids touching the giant snake).

Thursday, August 22
At 7pm, check out the free military band concert at Harris Pavilion.  Their repertoire is usually loud, march-y, and fun.  You'll be outdoors, and seating is limited, so if you have camping chairs or a picnic blanket, it's a good idea!

Friday, August 23
Word to the History Buffs among you, the Manassas Civil War Weekend starts on Friday and runs through Sunday. My top pick for kids is actually the Civil War Parade on Saturday at 10am, but there will be various events all weekend long.

At 7pm, Dumfries Cares will be offering a family fun night where you can register for their free after school program or register for free parenting classes, as well as participating in fun games and activities for the whole family.  I don't know much about this program, but the price is certainly right!)

Saturday, August 24
Starting at 8am, First Baptist Church of Manassas will be giving away backpacks of school supplies on a first-come basis while supplies last.  If you're having trouble affording school supplies this year, they'd like to help you out.

Lowe's Build and Grow will be a Shrek-themed onion carriage.  Don't forget to register online!

In the evening, you have several options, including a free concert at Leesylvania (Bring Bug Spray.  You'll thank me later) at 7pm, the Muppet Movie at Stonebridge at 7pm, or Oz the Great and Powerful at Signal Hill Park at 7:45pm.

Sunday, August 25
At 3pm, check out a free concert with bonus free ice cream at the Harris Pavilion.  Bring your own chairs if you have them as seating is limited.

Prefer your ice cream indoors? At 4pm, Pump it Up has bouncing and "Sundaes on Sunday".

One Day Fall PWC Parks and Recreation 2013

Here are some fun, one-day classes for the Fall Season through Prince William County Parks and Recreation.  I've included the registration information at the bottom.  For those of you who may be new, SBDCRC is the acronym for the WAY too long of a name Dale City Rec.  These are also on the calendar, but sign up now so you're sure to get a spot! 

Let’s Read (Ages 3-5) Code 310401

Have you ever wondered what happens if you give a mouse a muffin? Join us as we read and explore through activities based on Laura Numeroff's books.  $15, register in advance.  SBDCRC- September 19^th at 9:45am

Let’s Paint (Ages 3-5) Code 310121

Let your child’s inner Picasso come out as they paint using a variety of tools to create several of their very own masterpieces. $15, register in advance. SBDCRC September 26^th at 9:45am

Let’s Celebrate Fall (Ages 3-5) Code 310401

We will explore this change of seasons through a variety of books and special projects.  $15, register in advance.  SBDCRC October 10^th 9:45am *Note: Let’s Celebrate Fall and Dr. Suess have the same ID Code in the magazine, so confirm you are registered for the correct class when calling.

Dr. Suess (Ages 3-5) Code 310401

Let your imagination run wild with Dr. Suess. Join us as we read several of his books and explore them through various projects and activities. $15 SBDCRC November 7^th at 9:45am *Note: Let’s Celebrate Fall and Dr. Suess have the same ID Code in the magazine, so confirm you are registered for the correct class when calling.

Look What I Made! (Ages 3-5) Code 310121

Class participants will be able to make their own playdough and ooblek. $15, register in advance, November 21 9:45am

Wonders of the Holidays (Ages 3-5) Code 310191

Tis the season…We will celebrate the season through reading books that explore the magic of the holidays.  $15 SBDCRC December 5^th, 9:45am *Wonders of the Holidays, Ornaments and Decorations, and Parents Shop/Kids Drop all have the same activity code, please be sure you are registered for the correct class.

Ornaments and Decorations (Ages 3-5) Code 310191

We will create holiday decorations and ornaments that you will be able to treasure for years to come.  $15 SBDCRC December 12^th at 9:45am *Wonders of the Holidays, Ornaments and Decorations, and Parents Shop/Kids Drop all have the same activity code, please be sure you are registered for the correct class.

Parents Shop/Kids Drop (Ages 3-12) Code 310191

Parents rest assured as you are finisheing your holiday shopping your children are having fun in an exciting and safe environment.  Activigties fro children will include games, movies, andcraft projects.  Pizza and drinks provided.  Pre-registration required by Dec 6.  $20/4 hours, CAFC December 14^th 6pm-10pm

Girls Lock In and Sleepover (3^rd-5^th Graders) Code 310204

Join us for a night full of fun.  Snacks and Breakfast will be provided.  Come dressed in your favorite PJs and fuzzy slippers.  Pre-registration required by November 1.  For girls only in 3^rd, 4^th, or 5^th grade.  $30, CAFC November 16^th 7pm-7am

Glow in the Dark Yoga (Ages 13+)

Everyone wear white and register ahead!! Monday October 21 7:30-9pm, Tuesday October 29 7-8pm, Thursday October 31 7-8pm Free for passholders, $10 drop in

FREE Pilates Studio Open House (Ages 13+) Code 318305

Join us in this free pilates orientation on the equipment and expose yourself to a new formula of keeping your body in ultimate shape and balance.  Pre-registration is required.  SBDCRC October 2^nd 11a-1pm or 7pm-8pm

Wednesdays in the Park (Preschool) Code 309100

Bring your pre-schooler out for an adventure in the park.  You may register for one or all of the programs.  Parent participation is encouraged but not required.  $10 Lake Ridge Park Theme:

9/18-  Fishing/Waterfront

9/25- Soccer/Mini Golf

10/2- Trails

Baby Sitter Training (13-15) Code 311011

The American Red Cross helps to develop skills in six critical areas: leadership, safety, safe play, basic care, first aid, and professionalism.  Offered multiple dates.  1 8-hour class, $75

September 21

October 19

November 16

Scouting Programs- These aren’t on the calendar because I’m too lazy.  I’m sorry.  Please don’t hate me.

To register for classes, you can go to pwcparks.org, register in person at any registration site (listed below) print and mail a registration form and payment, or register by phone with a credit card.  They take Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. 

Registration Offices Are:

Ben Lomond Community Center

10501 Copeland Drive Manassas VA

703-361-7126

Hours: M-F 9am-8pm, Sa 9am-12pm, Su Closed

Hellwig Administrative Office

14420 Bristow Road Manassas VA

703-792-7060

Hours: M-F 8:30am-5pm, Sa/Su Closed

Chinn Aquatics and Fitness Center

13025 Chinn Park Drive Woodbridge VA

703-730-1051

Hours: M-Th 5am-9pm, F 5am-8pm, Sa 7am-5pm, Su 8am-5pm

Sharron Baucom Dale City Recreation Center

14300 Minnieville Road Woodbridge VA

703-670-7112

Hours: M-F 6am-9pm, Sa 8am-8pm, Su 8am-6pm

Veterans Memorial Park

14300 Featherstone Road Woodbridge VA

703-491-2183

Hours: M-F 9am-6pm, Sa 9am-1pm, Su Closed

Fall Co-Curricular and Extra Curricular Activities

Back to School also means back to activities!! If you're looking for the perfect activity for your child, here are a few suggestions:

I- Co-Curricular Activities (activities that compliment learning and the SOLs, if you're into that sort of thing)

Engineering for Kids offers classes in Woodbridge at the Chinn Center and will also come to your school or location (think scouts or homeschool) if you'd like to start your own Robotics club.  We worked with them on a Robotics Workshop and it was amazing. Classes are offered for ages 4 to 14, so even preschoolers can enjoy this program!






Edgemoor Art Studio is still one of my favorite favorites because of director, Ruth Johnsen, who is just amazing with children.  Ruth offers art and phonics classes, starting at age 2 with "My Grown Up and Me" and going through age 16.  Phonics classes start at age 4 and classes are small, but Ruth also offers private tutoring for older students.  Art classes start at 2 and are fun, engaging, and use artist-quality materials.  Edgemoor won the Seefeldt Award for Art Excellence this year, as well.  The studio is located in Lake Ridge. These are not "crafty" classes, they're actual art lessons.

Scouting/things-similar-to-Scouting-that-don't-use-that-word-because-it's-trademarked (hereafter "scouting") can be a really fun activity if you find the right pack/den/troop for your family's level of activity.  Our readers recommended:
Daisies at Yorkshire Elementary 4067
Daisies at Leesylvania Elementary Troop 866
Brownie Troop 1789 at Leesylvania Elementary
American Heritage Girls Troop 1947
American Heritage Girls Troop 0428 (All Saints)
American Heritage Girls Troop 1010 (First Baptist)

Baden-Powell Service Organization (2 out of Woodbridge)
Boy Scouts of America Pack 1364 (Pattie Elementary, Montclair)

Animated Child in Montclair offers both an all-day program, Minecraft nights out, Spanish Language instruction, art classes, and other opportunities throughout the year.  In addition, they offer parents night out and parents day out programs, so if the year gets to be a little much for you and you need a glass of wine with grownups....they've got you covered.

We've never used Drama Kids, but readers mentioned it! They offer classes at the Freedom Center in Manassas, as well as the Southlake Rec Center in Montclair.

All Sports, Various Activities- Check out the newest Leisure Magazine from the county! Typically their programs are great introductions AND they are affordable. 


Live in Manassas? You'll want to check out the listings for Manassas Park Community Center, too! You'll find the Freedom Center listings in Leisure Magazine (above) 




II.  Music Lessons (because that piano isn't just to hold your Precious Moments collection! These are in the order they were received, not alphabetical)
Jessica's music studio, manassas 703-368-3434. My 4 year old has been taking lessons for 4 months. She sees Josh and she already knows a tons. He's great with her. Heard that all the teachers there are great. Lessons run around $120/month for a 30 minute lesson once a week ( for the month).

Mary Beth Nolan, Montclair, $25 for 30 min lesson. Beginner through intermediate. 703-583-8680.

Music and Arts, Potomac Festival Mall, Miss B. $30 for 30 minutes/once a week. She is fantastic! My daughter has been with her for over a year now and plays beautifully!

I'm a piano teacher in the Woodbridge area. I have an undergrad degree in performance and a masters in music Ed. I charge $25 for half hour weekly lessons and I have 2 recitals every year and participate in piano festival for those interested. You can message me on here or through my email lessonsbystef@gmail.com (Stephanie Houde)

Kathleen at KLR Studios. Love her!! http://www.klrstudios.com/

We love Emily Condie Baird! $23 for 40 minute lessons in the Lake Ridge Area. 703-338-7359

Hello! I'm Dr. Becky Crowley, and I teach piano (and flute) in Woodbridge. While my studio is pretty full, I occasionally have some openings. I'd be happy to answer any questions your reader might have. She can contact me at Crowley.Becky@gmail.com, and she can also view my website at beckycrowley.com. Thanks!

III- Sports (activities that get some of that energy out and keep your kids fit and happy, hopefully you're into that sort of thing) 
Readers Recommend:
Baseball/T-Ball/Softball:
Dale City Rec Center (Eastern PWC)
GHBL (Western PWC), t-ball starting at age 4 and baseball starting at age 6
Greater Manassas Baseball League (includes softball)
PWGFS Softball

Basketball:
Boys and Girls Club (Multiple Locations)
EPWBA x3 (Eastern PWC)
Upward Basketball (Multiple Locations)
Prospects Sports (Eastern PWC) ages 5 and up

Dance:
We have a WHOLE separate post on that one! Click here.

Football/Cheer:
Dale City Sports Clubs x3 (Eastern PWC) ages 5-12, tackle football and Cheerleading
Game Time Sportz x3 (Eastern PWC) Flag football in Lake Ridge
Youth Sports gymnastics/tumble/cheerleading

Gymnastics:
Apollo 
Youth Sports

Ice Sports:
Prince William Hockey Club (Our money and our kids skate with PWHC)

Other Sports:
-Parkour at Urban Evolution
-Rock Climbing at Vertical Rock

Soccer:
VSA (Western PWC)
PWSI x3 (Our kids played PWSI and I loved it, our daughter is returning)
NVSC x3 one parent noted Hellwig Field is cleaner than the field by Splashdown
WBSC (Woodbridge)

Softball:
GMBL x2 (Western PWC)
PWGFS registration ends on August 3rd

Swimming:
Swim Kids (Various locations)  All three of my kids swam with Swim Kids for a time, and it's well done

All Sports, Various Activities- Check out the newest Leisure Magazine from the county! Typically their programs are great introductions AND they are affordable. 

Week in Preview: August 12 to August 18, 2013

Animated Child will have Jackson Pollock demonstration classes this week, but you have to pre-register!  Call 703-763-0003.  Times vary by age group.   While you're on the phone, ask about their parents night/day out programs! 

You can try Ice Skating for Free on Sunday! Try Ice Skating for Free is for beginners age 4 to adult. Skate rental is provides. There will be 30 minutes of instruction and 30 minutes of free skating.
Registration on-line is required at www.pwice.com.

Plan ahead for the 22nd when Leesylvania will offer a "Survival 101" class. Wilderness survival is all about being prepared. Come to the Visitor Center to learn the basic skills you should know before going on extended outdoor adventures. We will look at how to prioritize tasks, what tools you might need and how to use them. At the end of the program make a survival bracelet to get your survival kit started. For more information please call 703-583-6904.

Sign up now for next week (August 25/26) Lowe's Build and Grow

Monday, August 12
A La Carte Caterers will be offering a week of classes for elementary kids.  Email  
kim@alacartecaters.com to get more information. Classes are 3-6pm.

From 11-12:30, Potomac Library will be showing Tim Burton's "The Corpse Bride". Kids can bring a snack and watch for free. Note this move is PG.

Tuesday, August 13
Sweet Creations in Bristow will host children's author Julia Heckathorn, who will be reading about animals and conservation and signing her books.  Children's yogurt will be $3.  I love events like these, because they really encourage children that authors are real people- and they can be them, too! Event starts at 1pm, and I've never been to Sweet Creations, so I'm not sure about seating.

It's $2 Tuesday at the Prince William County Fair.  Admission and ride tickets will be $2/each, and NO wristbands will be sold- so if you were planning to purchase them, today isn't your day.

Wednesday, August 14
At 10am, Oh Susannah will play at Stonebridge for their Summer Music Series.  Bring your own seating, if you will need it.

For Kindergartners, previous walkers (or homeschoolers- you know your kids want to ride the bus), there will be school buses at Bull Run, Central, Chinn, Dale City, Dumfries, Independent Hill, Lake Ridge, and Potomac Libraries at 10:30am.

Thursday, August 15
Kidgits will be hosting a Back to School themed event this month, including school inspired crafts, a live puppet show, and back-to-school fashions and coupons.  This event is from 10-11am, and while you don't have to be a Kidgits member, members do get special gifts.

At 11, Potomac Library will host an end-of-summer ice cream social.  Drop-in for all ages.

From 7-8:15pm, Huntington Learning Center will present tips and tricks for making this school year a success for parents and caregivers, and will cover topics such as homework, SOLs, and more at Bull Run Library.  For adults.

Friday, August 16
If you need a quieter end to your week, Soaring Spirit in Occoquan will be offering Mom/Tot and Prenatal Yoga.  Mom/Tot starts at 6:15pm and Prenatal Yoga will be at 7:15pm.  Students may drop in, or purchase a pass.

For $20, parents can drop their children (ages 5-11) off at the Freedom Center from 6:30-9:30pm for games, fun, swimming, and pizza.  Get a date night, or take a nap!  Children must be registered by Thursday night at 10pm.

Saturday, August 17
Ninth Dragon Martial Arts in Dumfries is celebrating their birthday with an open house including face painting, moon bounces, burgers and hot dogs, arts and crafts, and mini-seminars and demonstrations.  They're also advertising spaces for those wishing to sell or demo products.  10am-3pm

Saturday night, you can take your pick from Saturday Nights at the Workhouse (Lorton), a free concert at the Harris Pavilion (Manassas), or the Karate Kid movie at Stonebridge (Woodbridge).  All three are free.

Sunday, August 18
Try Ice Skating for Free is for beginners age 4 to adult. Skate rental is provides. There will be 30 minutes of instruction and 30 minutes of free skating. Registration on-line is required at www.pwice.com. Classes will be at 4pm.

Welcome Red Tricycle

Red Tricycle DC is another family-friendly site that offers events, activities, giveaways and ideas for the larger DC Metro area.  There are a few ways you can interact with them:

1. Visit their website
Red Tricycle DC offers a list of events in the DMV, especially in DC and Maryland, if you're looking for fun activities with a short drive.  Red Tricycle National has a blog of fun events and ideas. 

2. Enter their giveaway
Red Tricycle is celebrating their DC Launch with 12 Awesome Giveaways including Kidville, Rebecca Danzenbaker Photography, Momme Meals, Urban Sitter, Classy Kids Consignment, and more.

3. Vote for the best
As they're new to the area, Red Tricycle is asking readers to help them find the best of the best in multiple categories.  Help them know about great stores like Baby Blossom by voting in their Totally Awesome Awards

Welcome to DC, Red Tricycle!  Just remember to watch out for the no-parking zones during rush hour when you parallel park your trike ;)


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Disclosure: This is a sponsored post brought to you by Red Tricycle. PwcMoms.com is not responsible for external content or contest hosting/rules/prizes.  All opinions are our own. 

Giveaway: Visit Richmond VA/Redskins Training Camp

It's Football Season.  According to my husband, it's the most wonderful time of the year, and it's technically just the pre-season.   (I'm not going to lie, though, as a Green Bay Packers fan, he's lying next to me telling Redskins jokes and trying to get me to add them to this post, which is not happening....and if it does, it was him, not me!) 

Photo From VisitRichmondVa.com

If you'd like to experience the pre-season up-close and personal, you can head just a short drive south to Richmond, Virginia.  From July 25th to August 16, 2013, Richmond is proud to welcome the Washington Redskins to the Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Camp, and they'd be proud to welcome your family, too.  Admission to the camp is free, and you can take advantage of watching your favorite players, get autographs, take pictures, and even attend special events and possibly win a giveaway (or two!).  

The Omni Richmond has even put together a special package for those who want to start singing Hail to the Redskins a little early this year! 

We actually love Richmond.  My oldest son, Riley, has been incredibly interested in politics since he was five and has been invited down to the capitol for swearing-in ceremonies and tours because he's such a good campaign volunteer. We love the Children's Museum, which is right next to a science museum if you have older children, and we actually thought about getting married at the Botanical Gardens, which are beyond amazing. 

Photo from OmniHotels.com

Washington Redskins Ultimate Fan Experience Package: Omni Richmond Hotel

100 South 12th Street | Richmond, VA 23219 | (804) 344-7000

Redeemable: July 25 - August 15, 2013

Enjoy the Ultimate Fan Experience with VIP treatment when you stay at the Official Headquarter Hotel for the Washington Redskins Training Camp.

The Ultimate Fan Experience, from $149 per night, per guest, includes:

·         Luxurious accommodations in an Omni Deluxe Room

·         Breakfast per registered guest in Trevi's Restaurant for the Omni Art of Breakfast

·         One gourmet boxed lunch per registered guest to take to the training facility that includes: choice of handcrafted sandwich, bag of chips, house made cookie, whole fruit and bottled water

·         Pre-arrival call from the Omni Concierge to complete boxed lunch pre-order and to assist in any planning in order for you to more fully enjoy your visit to Richmond

·         Complimentary transportation to and from the training camp facility

·         Late check-out of 3:00 p.m. on your departure day

Visit Richmond has made it even easier for your family to take advantage of the training camp fun with a Richmond, VA Redskins' Training Camp Family Prize Pack! This package includes:

•         Four (4) passes to Valentine Richmond History Center or Four (4) passes to Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

•         Lunch for four (4) at Anna’s Pizza (Not to exceed $30.00)

•         The Ultimate Redskin’s Fan Pack (Assorted Richmond, VA and Redskins branded items)

enter using the Rafflecopter at the end of this post! 

Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Disclaimer: No purchase necessary, winners must be 18 or older and comply with any sponsor requirements.  Contest sponsored by VisitRichmondVa.com.  Winner assumes all liability, and risk, and any additional expenses, including travel to redeem prizes. Winner's name will be posted on the website and to Facebook, and by entering, you agree to these terms.