Week in Preview: July 15 to July 21, 2013

Can you believe we're halfway through July? I can't! Granted, I feel like I lost the better part of a year being sick, but time always goes fast when you have little ones, doesn't it? I remember a MOPS mentor mom telling me once that the days drag on but the years fly by- and I can get that. 

Since we're pretty far though summer, take stock of your summer "bucket list", or make one if you haven't! Have you gone fishing? Gotten some fro-yo? Gone camping, even if it's in the backyard? Blown bubbles and caught fireflies? There are so many great summer memories that are free or low-cost, and really build memories for later! 

Not sure if you'll still be able to get tickets, call first but if you can, do it asap for:
Reading is Magic: Mattioli presents a unique combination of stunning visual magic with comedy and audience interaction. Be amazed as live doves appear out of thin air, watch a microphone stand levitate, and much more! Students entering grades 1 and up. Pick up FREE tickets beginning July 9 at Central Library. Appearance is July 16 from 3-4pm.

Grey Seal Puppets: Animals collide in a fairy tale world with these lively retellings of familiar and much-loved folk tales. Children ages 2 and up, accompanied by an adult. Pick up FREE tickets beginning July 10. Central Library. Actual performance is July 17 at 10:30am
(Note- if you can't get tickets at Central, you can go to this event at Chinn on July 18th at 10am or Potomac at 2pm, no ticket needed)

Reminder/For those who are new: These are NOT the only events this week! It's just a heads up on any you might want to pre-register for and a few highlights.  Head to the "calendar" section for a full list of things to do (that we know of). 

Monday, July 15
Sign your tot up TODAY for "It's Snowing in July" at the Freedom Center, which will happen on Wednesday the 17th at 12:30pm.  This hour and a half class is drop-off and costs $13.  Children must be registered by 10am today. 

Tuesday, July 16
Crafty Critters and Insect Exploration will give kids ages 2 and up a chance to learn about bugs and make a thematic craft.  10:30 am at Independent Hill Library

Older kids might enjoy seeing the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) truck at Chinn Library at 2pm!

Wednesday, July 17
Good Shepherd UMC, located at Birchdale and Dale, is offering a free Christian story time and craft at 10am.  Last week, a reader said this was higher-quality than many library programs they've attended, and that it's not nearly as busy.  If you're avoiding the library because of the crowds, this might be one to try. 

Working moms- tonight you can head to a family craft time at Potomac Library at 7:15 and make a "Deely Bopper".  (Don't ask me, I have NO clue what that is) Plan to arrive at 7 to get a ticket, which are free but limited. 

Thursday, July 18
It's Kidgits day at Potomac Mills! Meet by the TJ Maxx entrance (near the indoor play area) for a fun event at 10am. Kidgits club meets the 3rd Thursday of every month for different fun activities. It's free for everyone to attend, or, for $5 per child per year, you can get a Kidgits membership and enjoy special perks, like a goodie at each meeting or a spin on the prize wheel every time you shop! Plus a t-shirt and something special for your birthday.

Need an evening event? There's family craft night at Chinn where you can make a Summer Photo Frame, or you could try Mom & Me Bellydance for something a little more active! Both are at 7pm.

Friday, July 19
Friday night could be some active fun! There's a mom and tot yoga class in Occoquan from 6:15-7pm (we tried one of these, my daughter and I, and she loved it so much I bought a DVD for her because I couldn't make the class time when she was a tot). For older kids, MyBodyMovez is hosting a Glow Party: Calling all TEEEENS! Join us on Friday, 7/19 for a dance party just 4 YOUUUUU! Wear your neon or white, bring your friends and come dance with us under black lights. Ages 12-17. Parents must sign waiver. $10/person

Saturday, July 20
Our newest sponsor, The Animated Child has two great events that you'll need to PRE REGISTER for. The first is a free Spanish class for ages 5-7, and the second is a Parents Night Out with a "Minecraft Mania" theme. They've even taken the guess work out of dinner by partnering with Mateo's Santa Fe Cafe to offer you a special price on dinner. Love it! Mateo's comes highly recommended by our readers.

Manassas-side, there's a free concert from 6:30-8pm at the Harris Pavilion featuring Linda Lay and Springfield Exit. There's a Subway across the street if you'd like dinner and a show ;)

Sunday, July 21
Have you been to a waterpark yet this summer? Waterworks and Splashdown are both great fun!

The Animated Child will also offer lunch dates! Parents Lunch Out will watch your kids while you enjoy Mateo's Santa Fe Cafe Excellent southwest meals for two at an exclusive price of $20 for PLO participants at Animated Child. Two entrees and a delicious dessert! Make it a special afternoon "just because." Outdoor dining available and stay within the same shopping plaza! Be sure to PRE REGISTER for this one!