Giveaway: Ashleybug

Whew things are crazy around here at PwcMoms HQ, otherwise known as my basement.  Because of that, this week's been a bit of a jumble.  We had a Featured Organization Friday post on a TUESDAY and now we're having a giveaway on a SATURDAY.  I know. 

If this is totally throwing you guys for a loop- my middle guy just learned how to play "Lightly Row" on his violin which sounds just like "Soft Kitty" from Big Bang Theory.  I'll even sing for you.  


So, today, we have Ashleybug!

Ashley Barker creates adorable organic bibs, burp cloths, and spa products for your little one. 

Tell us a little about your business:

Hi, I'm Ashley.  I have a background in Advertising and Marketing Research and a love of organics.  In 2010, I was finally able to put all of my ideas to use and Ashleybug began!  In my research, I found that cute organic fabrics are hard to come by and are usually only found in high-end boutiques.  After months of working with my wonderful beta testing babies, I was able to design items that are functional and adorable (not to mention AFFORDABLE!).  They withstand the rigors of everyday use and lots of washings.  

Why organics?

Considered one of the most chemically dependent crops in the world, conventional cotton uses 10 percent of all agricultural chemicals and 25 percent of the world’s insecticides.  In the U.S., one-third of a pound of chemicals are needed just to grow enough conventional cotton for a regular T-shirt. It has been estimated that less than ¼ of the pesticides sprayed on cotton fields actually reach the plants. The remaining ¾ are carried by the wind to other crops, forests, soils, waterways, and all forms of wildlife in our ecosystems.

What's your favorite part about your business?

My absolute favorite part of my business is seeing kiddos in our products when I'm out and about.  It proves that there really is a need for the items that we create, and families believe in giving their children quality natural products.  My favorite thing about the actual business is coming up with new fabric designs.  It's so much fun to be creative and come up with patterns that are unique to ashleybug.

And, since it's January- what's your favorite winter activity?

My favorite winter activity is sledding and also watching the snow come down with a cup of hot chocolate :)

Ashleybug is offering 20% off to PwcMoms readers during the month of January on baby items, and she's got a fun giveaway for us, too! Enter using the Rafflecopter below to win an Ashleybug Gift pack valued at over $50! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway
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As always, this giveaway is provided by the sponsor, and when entering, you agree to be bound by our full rules, which are available here. This giveaway is not affiliated with Facebook, Apple/iTunes, Google/GooglePlay, Android, or anyone else who shovels their cash to the bank on a daily basis.  

Christ Chapel Academy Preschool and K-12

The preschool at Christ Chapel started as Joyful Generation Preschool in September of 1984, under the direction of Debbie Wolf.  Joyful Generation was a part-day preschool that offered a 2 or 3 day program for 3 and 4 year old children.  The first full time childcare program, ranging in ages of 6 weeks through five years of age, in 1990 was contracted by Little Lambs Childcare.  Upon the end of their contact in 1993, Debbie Wolf was tasked to develop a fulltime program, thus Christ Chapel Children’s Center was born, which consisted of Joyful Generation Part-day Preschool and Kingdom Kids Full-time childcare.  Our name changed once again in 2010 as we moved forward to become known as one program, Christ Chapel Academy Preschool.

Christ Chapel Academy’s Preschool Program, Est. September 1984.

At Christ Chapel Academy’s Preschool program, you will find a fun and exciting approach to early child education and care.  We recognize the individuality of each child, and strong emphasis is placed on positively reinforcing the child’s own unique cognitive, physical, social and spiritual development.  We recognize that each child is a gift from God and that they deserve the finest in care and education. Full-time and Part-time options are available for children ages 2-5 years. 

3 Great Reasons to Take a Look at Our Program:

1. Security Patrolled & Monitored Classrooms 
2. Qualified Teachers with Longevity (3-12 years)
3. Accredited Program

Open House Dates:
January 10th, 9:00am-11:00am (Pre-K Only| Enrollment Information and Tour)

January 25^th, 1pm-3pm (Pre-K-12^th Grade| Enrollment Information and Tour)

Visit our Preschool page here for more information:
goo.gl/j4RkRQ

Contact Information:

Sheila Nelson

Preschool Director

snelson@christchapel.org
13909 Smoketown Road, Woodbridge, Va 22192 | 703-670-3822

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This is a sponsored post brought to you by Christ Chapel Academy Preschool

Featured Organization: Youth Outreach Services

A new non-profit organization is beginning in Prince William County that will focus on non-traditional job training.  Youth Outreach Services is run by Elizabeth Charity, who wants to help at-risk youth in Prince William County with before and after school programs, job training, and positive activities.  Through a partnership with George Mason University students, who will act as volunteer mentors, Youth Outreach Services will offer training in photography, auto detailing, and other non-traditional jobs, as well as offering a 12 week Job Readiness Program.

Currently, the organization is seeking volunteers to help with the renovation of a property that will house their program, located off the Prince William Parkway near County Center.

The organization is also seeking to reach out to adults and teens in Prince William County who might be interested in becoming involved, or, who work with at-risk youth and would like more information about their programs.  To that end, they will be hosting a "Creating Community Connections Conference" in conjunction with the Saved Hands Foundation THIS WEEKEND, January 11, 2014.  There is a $10 fee, which will cover dinner.  Attendees will include local sports figures, and entertainers.  All are welcome.  To learn more, or to get involved, please visit the event's Facebook page to RSVP.

Week in Preview January 6, 2014- January 12, 2014

I feel like this is the first week that "normal" life is really back.  Our Christmas decorations are put away, our tree made a lovely bonfire to roast marshmallows and make tin foil meals in the snow, and now, with classes and activities back on a normal schedule, life goes on!

I want to issue a quick reminder that while I try to tell you guys as soon as I hear a cancellation of an event or activity on our calendar, sometimes businesses don't remember to let me know, and/or don't update their Facebook pages.  If there's inclement weather, please call first, and, ultimately, use your best judgement.  Getting out of the house to burn energy isn't worth getting in a car accident if the roads are bad!

So, on with the show!

RSVP/Pre-Register For
We'll be having our next reader meetup on Monday, January 20th from 11am-1pm.  Mateo's Santa Fe Cafe in Montclair will be hosting us along with Animated Child.  The full lunch menu will be available, or come and enjoy $5 appetizers and $3 Sangria.  Since this is a holiday (MLK Day) for many of you, if you'd like to bring your hubby/significant other along, you're more than welcome.  If you need childcare to join us, Animated Child is offering an amazing deal.  Their Parents Night Out programs are typically $35/child, but on this day, they'll be just $10.  Ages 3-12, potty trained only, please, and be sure to feed your child an early lunch or big snack before they come so that we don't have to worry about food allergies at the center. 
EMAIL ME to reserve your spot, and please indicate whether you're just coming for lunch or require childcare.
Ages 3-5 Art and Open Exploration
Ages 5-8 Science Activity and Open Exploration
Ages 8-12 Mini Minecraft Camp

Book Babies at Potomac Library
Tuesday, January 21, 10:30 a.m.
Babies need books, too! Join us for stories, songs and play. Limited to 10 infants and their care-givers. Ages 6–24 months Register online, in person or by phone beginning December 3

Snow and Story at Prince William Ice Arena will be held this week on January 8th.  Reserve your spot by emailing mbrennan@pwice.com or call 703-730-8423.  $7/child includes a safe and fun time playing on the ice with snow and toys, followed by cookies, hot chocolate, and a story.


Homework: A Parent's Survival Guide
Monday, January 13, 7:00 p.m.
A pratical workshop offering parents the advice they need to tackle common homework problems. Representatives from Huntington Learning Center will discuss common homework problems and offer suggestions on how to overcome some obstacles. Registration online, by phone, or in person, is not required but recommended beginning Monday, December 30.

Highlights this Week:
Wednesday
In January, Wednesday nights from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. are free. Hours vary, check www.harrispavilion.com for details.

Thursday from 6-8pm
Birth Matters of Prince William County presents Preparing for Postpartum
Please join us for our monthly Birth Matters meeting: Preparing for Postpartum.  We will have a guest speaker Elizabeth Wilkins-Mckee, LCSW.  Postpartum mood and anxiety disorders are becoming more and more prevalent in our society. The stresses of a new mother or even a second, third, etc time mother are real and it's imperative that we prepare for this period with patience, love and nurturing.  Come out and talk about how you managed your postpartum period, problems you had or are having and get some expert advice on how to prepare yourself for this delicate and precious time.  As always, please bring a dish to share for our potluck style meeting.
Hope to see you there!

Saturday
There is a great deal on the calendar this Saturday, but I do hope you'll stop by Edgemoor Art Studio's open house.  Mrs. Johnsen will have a collaborative sculpture, spin art, and watercolors out for children to enjoy while parents learn more about her award-winning art programs and very popular summer camps.  I'll drop by as well, and will be giving away a FREE week of summer camp to a lucky family who stops by! Edgemoor is located across from Tackett's Mill- 12616 Lake Ridge Drive Woodbridge VA near Brite Stars Pediatric Dentistry.  The open house will run from 12:30-5pm.  See you there!

Monster Jam® and a Giveaway!

If you've got a truck lover (Hot Wheels, anyone?) then this might be the perfect event for you!! It's at the Verizon Center, so it's a little bit of a drive, but it sounds like just the ticket for kids who like loud, rowdy, and exciting! 
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For the first time since 2011, Monster Jam® returns to the Verizon Center in Washington, D.C. January 24 and 25, 2014.

Monster trucks are custom-designed machines that sit atop 66-inch-tall tires and weigh a minimum of 10,000 pounds. Built for short, high-powered bursts of speed, monster trucks generate almost 2,000 horsepower and are capable of speeds of up to 100 miles per hour. They whirl and fly 130 feet into the air, amazing audiences of all ages.
 

Patrons with a ticket to the show on Saturday, January 25 at 2:00 pm, plus a valid Pit Pass, can kick off the event in the Party in the Pits from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. During the Party in the Pits, fans and families have an opportunity to see the trucks up close and take photos and get autographs from their favorite drivers. Pit Passes are available for $10 at the Verizon Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster retail outlets, online at www.ticketmaster.com <http://www.ticketmaster.com> , or charged by phone at 1-800-745-3000.
 

Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam®
Verizon Center | Washington, D.C. | January 24-25, 2014

Show Dates:                   
Friday, January 24, 2014 - 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, January 25 - 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.


Ticket Prices: $65.00 VIP/ $25.00/ $20.00/ $10.00 Kids. All tickets are $2 more on the day of show. Additional fees may apply. Kid’s tickets are not valid on VIP seats.
Ticket Information: Tickets are available now at the Verizon Center box office, all Ticketmaster retail outlets, online at www.ticketmaster.com, or by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

Party in the Pits: Pit Party passes are available for $10 at the Verizon box office, all Ticketmaster retail outlets, online at ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. 

To WIN FREE Tickets- you must be available to attend the January 24th at 7:30pm show. Contest opens at midnight, January 6th, 2014 and closes at midnight on January 13th.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Disclosure: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending show and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to  attend private Feld pre-Show events.  Even though I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine.  

As always, by entering you agree to be bound by my rules, listed in full detail here, as well as agreeing to forefit your prize if you are not at least 18 years of age or older.  Feld Entertainment is neither a sponsor, nor an endorser of this promotion.  

Recap: Open Exploration at The Animated Child

When I was first able to actually sit down with Alejandra Hall, owner of The Animated Child, and chat face to face for the first time, I was so impressed with her vision.  I'd read the website and tried to understand everything that was going on over there- a preschoool, indoor play area with drop-in hours, language classes, art classes, social skills coaching (they're an inclusive center), memberships with special members-only benefits, parents night out, annnnd....I think I'm skipping something, too.

Minecraft- they have Minecraft camps and classes- how could I forget that? My boys have talked about NOTHING but doing Minecraft camp since we walked in the doors. 

They've got a TON of things going on over there, and understanding it just by reading the website is almost impossible, you really do have to drop in.

That's why I was so excited that The Animated Child invited us to bring a few readers over for a free open-exploration so they could experience it for themselves.  It was a great way to spend New Years Eve Day!

 Our target age was K-3, and I would say that Open Exploration is best aimed at ages 2-7. That being said, my 10 year old had fun when we came with just out family, but I think preschool-grade 2 would have the most fun. 

 My daughter had a blast at the tangram wall.  It's completely magnetic, and there are tons of patterns.  I think these two built a rocketship and a centipede before moving on to something else!

 The space that you play in for Open Exploration is divided into sections based on Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences (I told you that they impressed me with their planning!!).  There's are areas for playing with animals (guniea pig, lizard, and multiple fish tanks), a touch table, a train table, all sorts of building materials, body puzzles, a dress-up/pretend play area, and water bead station.  The space is open and inviting, and everyone (parents, too!) wears socks and uses hand sanitizer before playing to keep it clean!

 While the kids were playing, Mrs. Alexy took the time to let parents find their child's top intelligence and gifted everyone a shirt with "Music Smart", "Body Smart", "Math Smart", whatever their top match was. 

I think everyone left happy, and had a great time playing.  We had a few kids that did NOT want to leave!  I love that Open Exploration is engaging, quiet, and less rowdy than inflatable places (aka Bounce Houses), which I love, too, but with very small children who get hurt easily, or a child who can't bounce for whatever reason, there are few fun indoor options for cold/rainy/winter days, and I'm really glad that we've got one in Montclair!

To learn more about The Animated Child, visit their website, or better yet, visit them in person.  Open Exploration times are listed on their website, but are currently:
Open Exploration Scheduled Times:
 (Monday-Friday)
9:00am-10:30am                 
11:00am-12:30pm
3:00pm-4:30pm
5:00pm-6:30pm
Open Exploration Scheduled Times: (Saturday)
10:00am-11:30am
11:30am-1:00pm      

You can also find Open Explorations listed on our calendar.    Open Explorations are $9 for non-members.  Thanks again to everyone who came out to play with us!!
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Disclosure: The Animated Child is one of our advertisers, but all opinions are our own.  You can find out more about advertising with PwcMoms, or about hosting an event for our readers at your venue under the "advertise" tab, or by emailing us. 

Week in Preview: December 30, 2013, to January 5, 2014

Happy New Year, readers!! Thanks for sticking with me, even as things got a little spotty while I was in treatment.  I appreciate you guys :) Thank you also to the businesses that have worked with me this year, whether as sponsors or simply by adding their events to our calendar!! I appreciate you guys, too.  I'd like to give a special shoutout to Bessie Bender from Prince William Libraries who has been adding their events to my calendar for some time.  She's moving on from that task (don't worry, there's a new person!) but I so appreciate all the time and energy she's put into ensuring that you guys are up-to-date on all the fantastic (and free!) programs that the library offers!

Since most of you are probably still getting caught up from Christmas/visitors/school break, I'm just going to feature NYE and pre-registrations this week.  Have a fantastic week and I wish you health, happiness, and hope in 2015. 


Pre-Register/Pick Up Tickets For:
The Life will be offering an College Essay Writing Workshop for students planning to apply for college scholarships. Seating is limited and will be held Saturday, January 4, 2014 at New Life Anointed Ministries "The Life" [Marumsco Plaza 14045 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Woodbridge, VA 22191 – LOCATION CHANGE] from 11am to 1:00pm. This FREE workshop is designed to assist students to write effective essays to accompany scholarship applications. Registration is not required. POC: Christina Finley youth@thelifedc.org or 310-218-9002

Tuesday, December 31st-

New Years Eve Happenings

The Yards in DC is hosting a daytime family celebration to kick off the New Year. “Noon Year’s Eve” will feature music and activities including a countdown and balloon drop at noon, train rides, face painting, magic, and more.

Skate N Fun Zone in Manassas will have 2 balloon drops- one at 3pm and one at Midnight during their "Rock Around The Clock" skates.  Admission includes party favors, a one-hour pizza/soda buffet at 2pm and 10pm, and skating.  Two times, 12pm-6pm or 8pm-1am

The Cavalier in Stafford will host an all night 7pm-7am skate with a prize-filled balloon drop at midnight.

First Night Warrenton will include fun family celebrations at an alcohol-free event.  Over 50 performers are lined up including juggling, music, hayrides and more.  There is an entry-fee for this event, but a "large family rate" is available if that applies to you.

First Night Vienna will also be alcohol free and includes kid-favorites like Groovy Nate, the Great Zucchini, and a 9pm celebration for those with an earlier bedtime, as well as one at midnight.

Watch Night Falls Church includes a dragon slide, moonbounces, a scavenger hunt, entertainment, free popcorn and more. This free event will even have shuttles running every 30 minutes from the East Falls Church Metro Station.

Kids N Motion will have a Kids New Year's Party with optional sleepover.  You must reserve in advance. 7pm-9am, Balloon drop at 10pm.