Monday, July 7, 2014

Ice Cream Social


Wednesday, July 9th is the annual Littleton Fire Rescue Ice Cream Social.  All you can eat ice cream is $2.  There will also be Fire Truck displays and demonstrations, live music, face painting, and more!  This event takes place at Civic Green Park from 6pm - 9pm.

Tuesday, July 1, 2014

4th of July


The Independence Day Celebration is something you won't want to miss!  It will start at 8:00am with the 5k run/walk.  The family bike and pet parade starts at 8:45am.  The community parade is 9:00am - 10:30am!  This all day celebration will be from 9am - 7pm in both town centers (north & south), and will include vendors, music, rides for the kids, hot dog eating contest, and even a pet adoption fair.  For more information and a schedule of events check out the HRCA website.  The fireworks display will be around 9:00pm ~ a great place to watch from is Civic Green Park!

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Kidfest 2014

This Saturday, June 16th from 9:00am - 12:00pm, is the Kidfest in Highlands Ranch.  This free event will be held at Civic Green Park (next to the Highlands Ranch Library).  There will be music, several fun activities, and learning opportunities for your little ones.  Hope to see you all there!

Monday, June 9, 2014

Father's Day Gift Ideas


This year is going by way too fast.  I can't believe Father's Day is less than a week away!  Every year, I try to do a homemade gift, they're super cute, and the kids love getting involved.  


Pinterest has so many Father's Day gift ideas, here are my Favorites!  



This is adorable, but hand prints can sometimes be hard with babies.  Buy more than one ball, so it doesn't matter if the hand print doesn't work the first time.  If you are super lucky and it does, you have a gift for Grandpa too!





If you click on the source above, you can get a free printable!  
I love websites that give free printables :)





This idea is so much fun!  
The frame can be purchased at IKEA.





  Source
I LOVE kid questionnaires!  Jack's teacher did these at school for Mother's Day and his answers were hilarious.  It would be fun to do these every year and see how the answers change :)  
If you click on the source above, you can print off a copy.





And something for Grandpa!


I hope you enjoyed the pinspiration :)
For more Father's Day gift ideas, check out the Highlands Ranch Mom Pinterest page!


Do you have any Father's Day Favorites? 

If you are looking for something fun to do with your Dad this weekend, take him to the Highlands Ranch Car Show!

Sunday, June 8, 2014

Highlands Ranch Mom Community

forum.highlandsranchmom

Introducing the Highlands Ranch Mom Community!  My goal is for Moms to have a resource to connect with each other.  From parenting stories to questions about local businesses, I hope you will find this helpful :)  

I frequently get emails from new Moms as well as Moms moving to the area.  I'm happy to help, however, I don't feel like an expert.  I thought this would be a nice place for Moms to go for information. 

Click HERE to join!

You will need to register (it's free) in order to post a new topic or reply. 

I also added the Highlands Ranch Mom Community as a new page on this website - on the left side click Forum, and it will open in a new window.

Please email me at highlandsranchmom@gmail.com with any suggestions or questions.


Classic Car Show 2014

The Highlands Ranch annual Classic Car show will be Saturday, June 14th from 10am -2pm at Cherry Hills Community Church.  This event is free to the public!  

Thursday, May 29, 2014

Yoga in the Park

Namaste Works Yoga & Wellness will be offering free yoga all summer long!  Every Wednesday and Saturday from 8:15am - 9:15am at Civic Green Park.  This will be offered until August 16th, but check the schedule because there are a few excluded dates.  All participants must be 18 or older to participate and please arrive 10 minutes early to sign in.  For more information about Namaste Works Yoga & Wellness, visit their website!

Friday, May 23, 2014

Pool Time!


The outdoor pools are officially open!  Here is a schedule for the pool hours - it changes throughout the summer depending on lessons.  All of the rec center pools are different, and each have something special

Be sure to label your pool toys, and keep the favorite ones at home.  We have lost a bunch of toys at the pool.  Now I have a separate bin in my garage of pool toys, and I only let Jack bring those.  I know that if those toys dodn't make it back home, he wouldn't mind.  See you at the Pool!

Monday, May 19, 2014

Parker Performing Arts School

Parker Performing Arts School is a proposed K-8 Douglas County charter school.  The school will provide a unique mix of academic rigor along with training in the performing arts.  There is an upcoming parent meeting, details below.  For more information about the school, check out the website.  If this school seems like a good fit for your child, complete the online intent to enroll form.

When: June 25th at 6:30pm
Where: PACE Center (20000 Pikes Peak Ave. in Parker)
Contact: shelly@parkerperformingarts.org

Saturday, May 10, 2014

Modmarket is coming to Highlands Ranch!


The Grand Opening for Modmarket in Highlands Ranch (537 W. Highlands Ranch Parkway) will be Friday, May 23 at 8am.

The first 50 guests will each receive a $25 Modmarket gift card. Various prizes, including a one month free supply of popchips, IM=X Pilates Highlands Ranch gift certificates, yoga mats and other healthy living items, will also be awarded throughout the day to those who register at the restaurant.
                                                            
Founded in 2009, Colorado-based Modmarket is a farm fresh fast-casual restaurant company that serves real food made from simple, whole ingredients.  Established by two friends wanting to make it easier for people to eat food that is good for them, Modmarket serves healthy, delicious and affordable food in beautiful environments. From salads, soups and sandwiches to pizzas and homestyle plates, all entrees are made from scratch using fresh, quality ingredients that can be traced back to farms. For more information about Modmarket, visit their website!

Image: Natalie Pigliacampo

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Colorado Legacy

During the month of May, Colorado Legacy is hosting a FREE Friday kick around at ThunderRidge High School in Highlands Ranch.  From 5pm - 6pm on May 16th, and 30th; boys and girls ages 3-10 are welcome.  For more information check out the Colorado Legacy website.


Saturday, May 3, 2014

Farmer's Market 2014

The Highlands Ranch Farmer's Market will begin this Sunday, May 4th!  It's held every Sunday from 10am - 2pm at Town Center South until October 26th.  I'm glad that we get the chance to meet and support our local farmers!  It's also a fun place for kids, they have different activities and booths throughout the year.  For more information check out the Denver Farmer's Market website.

Friday, May 2, 2014

Tips for Traveling with Kids


 We love traveling with the kids, but I know it can be stressful for some, so I thought I would write a post about my top 5 tips for traveling with kids.


http://www.pjtra.com/t/Qz9ISUdLP0NDSEdEQz9ISUdL?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fdisney-princess-60-count-eco-table-topper%2F-%2FA-13681289

A friend told me about these when we were going to Ireland, and I have been using them ever since.  I love them for the airplane because you can put them on the tray table, and you don't have to worry as much about germs.  They are perfect for eating or playing.  I got a cars one for Jack a few years ago (it had a picture of a road), brought him some cars,  and it was a easy way to keep him busy on the airplane.  The edges are sticky so it will stay in place and when you are done you peel it off and throw it away.  They are also great for restaurants, it helps to minimize the mess babies and toddlers can make while eating :)


2. Bring everything you need!
We used to always fly Frontier, but with the amount of stuff you need to travel with kids, we only fly Southwest.  They will let you check 2 bags per person for free! (once your child turns 2 or if you decided to buy a ticket for a child under 2, they also get to check 2 bags).  
Baby items like a stroller or pack and play don't count against your 2 checked bags :)  

I always bring the kids carseats instead of renting them.  For Jack's, I will check it with our luggage, and Ella's I check at the gate.  I leave it right outside the plane door with her stroller and when we land, it's there waiting for us!  

Sometimes if the plane isn't too crowded the flight attendant will let you bring the carseat on the airplane and put it on the seat next to you.
They let me do that on Ella's first plane ride.  I wasn't planning on having my hands free since she was a lap child but she ended up sleeping in her carseat the entire time so I had nothing to do.  Traveling with a baby is way easier than traveling with a toddler or preschooler.


3. Snacks.  I always bring more snacks than I think Jack will eat.  You can never have enough!  Traveling takes kids away from their regular schedules, so even though he might not usually eat at that time, as long as I have food I know he will stay busy and happy.  Kids aren't used to so much walking and the huge airports can be exhausting.  Plus you never know with air travel, you could be delayed on or off the plane.  When you are on an airplane for over an hour more than you thought, you will be glad you had extra snacks.  I usually try to make sure Jack eats healthy, but when we travel I will allow him to eat junkfood. I know it isn't the time to test out Jack on sugar, but he did have Cheetos for the first time on an airplane :)


4. Backpack.
Jack was given a this rolling luggage a couple of years ago.  We only use it for traveling.  If I tell Jack we are going out of town the first thing he does is pack this bag :)

I let Jack pack whatever he wants in it (usually we end up bringing the most random things through security - so far no problems).  He brings toys and books to keep him busy.  If your child is too young to bring their own bag, and you are packing for them, try to bring new toys, or borrow toys from friends.  I think toddler aged kids are the hardest to travel with, because they want to get moving and won't sit still for too long, so new toys will keep them distracted longer than the toys they play with everyday.


5. Hand Sanitizer.  Airplanes are so dirty.  I always bring plenty of hand sanitizer and wipes.
http://www.pntrs.com/t/Qz9ISUdLP0NDSEdEQz9ISUdL?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fjohnson-s-hand-and-face-wipes-25-count%2F-%2FA-12286320
I have been using these wipes for years.  It's so gross hearing people cough on a plane and really there is nothing you can do - especially if you are traveling around flu season.  Just make sure those little hands are clean, because they touch everything. 


Remember to Have fun!
 You are making memories.  Try not to stress too much, but enjoy your time traveling with little ones.  They will be big before you know it!

The best part of traveling with little kids is everything is so exciting for them.  When else do kids get to ride a bus, a train, and a plane in one day? 



Thursday, May 1, 2014

BabySTEALS!

STEALS.com has some really cute products for a great price.  I just ordered some Jelly Strands teething necklaces for 47% off!  Ella has been putting everything in her mouth lately, and I thought these would be perfect for when I am outside playing with Jack and wearing Ella.  If you are interested in buying some, check out their website.  You might want to bookmark the page as they have new deals everyday :)

Monday, April 28, 2014

The Taste of Highlands Ranch

The Taste of Highlands Ranch is this Friday, May 2nd from 6-9pm at Eastridge.  This event is a lot of fun and it gives you a chance to try samples from many of our local restaurants.  Tickets are $25 per person in advance, and $30 at the door.  Attendees must be 21, and be sure to bring your ID.  There will be a silent auction with plenty of exciting items to bid on.  All silent auction proceeds will benefit Developmental Pathways.  See you there!

Thursday, April 24, 2014

9Health Fair 2014

The Highlands Ranch 9Health Fair will be at Eastridge rec center on Saturday, April 26th from 7am - 12pm.  This event offers free medical screenings along with low cost screenings.  For more information and to register, visit their website.  The Highlands Ranch Lions Club will be collecting used glasses.

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Highlands Ranch Mother's Day 5K!


 This year the Highlands Ranch Race Series is adding a new Race to celebrate all Moms!  The Highlands Ranch Mother's Day 5K will be on Saturday, May 10th at 9am.  The race will start and finish at Mountain Vista High School, 10585 Moutnain Vista Rdg.  



This is a new course, and it will have the best views of any Highlands Ranch 5K!

And plenty of room on the trail for a double stroller :)

After the race, Train OC will be hosting a free kids obstacle course.
This event is sure to be a lot of fun!
Here is the Race Website for more information as well as registration.

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Highlands Ranch Easter Egg Hunt 2014

The Highlands Ranch Easter Egg Hunt is Saturday, April 19th at Northridge Park.  It will start promptly at 10:00am.  Be sure to arrive early as the eggs are usually gone within minutes seconds.  This event is free for members; to register call 303-791-2500.  Limit of six eggs per child.  Bring your Easter basket and get ready to meet the Easter Bunny!

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Highlands Ranch Home Expo

This weekend is the Home Improvement Expo at Eastridge.  If you are thinking of getting work done on your house, be sure to stop by.  The expo will be held from 9am - 5pm on Friday and Saturday, (April 11 &12) and on Sunday, April 13th from 9am - 2pm.  Over 50 vendors are expected.  If you are a "Do It Yourself" enthusiast, there will be some helpful seminars.  Check out the HRCA website for more information.  The Expo is free and open to the public.

Monday, April 7, 2014

Volunteer Fair

Tuesday, April 8th is the Highlands Ranch Volunteer Fair.  It will take place at Southridge rec center from 5:00pm - 7:00pm.  This is a fun event to learn about how you and your family can help out the local nonprofits.  It's great to get kids involved in outreach at a young age, and there are a bunch of opportunities for families to volunteer together!

Monday, March 31, 2014

MOPS Sale

Saturday, April 5th is the MOPS Children's Consignment Sale at Cherry Hills Community Church from 8:00am - 2:00pm!  You won't want to miss this sale - try to get there early as hundreds of shoppers are expected throughout the day.  The church is located on Grace Blvd off of Fairview Pkwy in Highlands Ranch.  Some of the items they will be selling include: toys, clothing, baby essentials, and even maternity clothes all gently used and up to 75% off.  For more information check out their website.  There is a $2 entrance fee.

Monday, March 17, 2014

Chick-fil-A Grand Opening


Another Chick-fil-A is coming to Highlands Ranch!  
This one will be located at Town Center North.  
The address is: 950 Cpl Max Donahue Ln.
 
The store will officially open on Thursday, March 20th at 6:00am.  Chick-fil-A is know for their grand opening celebrations.  The first 100 people to arrive will receive free Chick-fil-A for a year (one meal per week).  Check out the website for more information.  

On March 19th, the new restaurant will host a food drive to benefit Home and Health Food Bank in Littleton. Anyone dropping off five or more non-perishable food items between 9am and 7pm will receive a coupon for a free Chick-fil-A sandwich.

Home Depot Kid's Workshop


We love The Home Depot in Highlands Ranch.  It was the perfect spot for Jack's 4th Birthday Party!  The first Saturday of every month they have free kid's workshops.  Saturday, April 5th from 9am - 12pm kids, age (5-12) can build a birdhouse / birdbath.  Workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills, tool safety and instill a sense of pride and accomplishment.  All kids get to keep their craft, receive a certificate of achievement, a workshop apron, and a commemorative pin.  If you are interested, go to their website to register.

Sunday, March 16, 2014

Your Kid's Closet at The Wildlife Experience

On Monday, March 17th, Your Kid's Closet is having their spring consignment sale at The Wildlife Experience.  The $1 admission (per person over the age of free) also gets you into the museum.  The shopping hours are 9am - 2pm and everything is half price!  For more information, check out their website.

Friday, March 14, 2014

Renew the Ranch

Volunteers needed for Renew the Ranch

On Saturday, April 12 volunteers throughout the community will team up to help keep Highlands Ranch beautiful. Volunteers are invited to participate in Renew the Ranch from 8am until 10am to help clean up four designated park and open space areas in the community.

Renew the Ranch is a kid-friendly activity. Groups, families, and individuals are all encouraged to attend. This is a great opportunity for high school students to earn community service hours required for graduation.  The minimum age for this event is 8.

To volunteer, please contact Kari Larese at 720-240-4909 or klarese@highlandsranch.org. After you register, you will be contacted prior to the event with the park location you will be assigned to.

This is a great way to get little kiddos involved in giving back!

Monday, March 3, 2014

MOMS SALE!


 Saturday March 8th 2014
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Douglas County Events Center
I-25 at exit 181
Admission is $1
 

Quality items at bargain prices!
 
The MOMS Sale is the largest nonprofit consignmnet sale in the Rocky
Mountain region with over $100,000 worth of merchandise sold. Almost
200 members of MOMS fill a 29,000 square-foot space with their gently-
used children’s equipment, toys, clothes, furniture, books, strollers and
much more. Savings are 50-90% off retail prices.

A portion of proceeds supports the MOMS Community Outreach program
which helps provide supplies, clothes, and equipment to low-income
families with multiples. MOMS donates hundreds of items to hospitals and
other organizations.

The Douglas County Events Center is one mile east of 1-25 at exit 181 in
Castle Rock. The line starts forming early in the morning for buyers who
want the best selection. The public is encouraged to bring a laundry
basket or bag to carry their items. Check, Visa, MasterCard with ID or
Cash accepted.

Only MOMS members may sell at the sale. We have
Sponsorship & Advertising Opportunities for companies who wish to support the mission
of our organization.

You can also download the Spring 2013
Press Release or the Spring
2013
Flier . Print out the flier and get FREE ENTRY into the sale.

Saturday, March 1, 2014

Highlands Ranch Moms Groups

I get a lot of inquiries about local moms groups as well as ideas on how to meet mommy friends.  Being a new mom can be overwhelming and it's so nice to have time with other moms.  Here is a list of the Highlands Ranch Moms groups that I know of:

Highlands Ranch Mom Community

Moms Club of Highlands Ranch East - email: momsclubhre@yahoo.com

Moms Club of Highlands Ranch West - email: whr_momsclub@yahoo.com

Cherry Hills Community Church MOPS

Christ Lutheran Church MOPS

Mothers of Multiples Society

St. Andrew Church MOPS

If you are in a Moms group that I have not listed, please email me and I will add it :)

Friday, February 7, 2014

Baby Safety Fair

Babies"R"Us is hosting a baby safety fair.  This event will take place on Saturday, February 8th from 12pm - 3pm at the Highlands Ranch Babies"R"Us.  Visit in store with local partners whose focus is baby safety, and browse the latest safety products and services.  For more information, and to register, call 303-346-6266.

Thursday, February 6, 2014

Sweetheart Teddy Bear Tea


Saturday, February 15th from 10:30am - 12:00pm is the Sweetheart Teddy Bear Tea.  This event will take place at Southridge and is $15 per person (children must be accompanied by an adult).  What could be more fun than getting dressed up and bringing your favorite teddy bear to a tea party?  Some yummy tea time snacks will also be served.

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

February Nature EdVentures

The Metro District invites you to have some wintry fun in Highlands Ranch

Who’s up for some Spontaneous Snow Fun? The Highlands Ranch Metro District is introducing a new Nature EdVentures program this winter for kids 8-12 to have fun in the snow. Register today and when snow starts to fly, park rangers will schedule and host an event that will teach kids about wildlife, making a snow shelter, and playing snow games. The cold day of wintry fun will conclude with some hot cocoa. To be placed on the Snow Fun e-mail list, please register online today at www.highlandsranch.org. Payment will be due after a date has been set.

Spontaneous Snow Fun is just one of the many Nature EdVentures programs offered this winter. Upcoming programs also include:

Feb. 14 – Full Moon Hike – All ages/families. Stroll by the light of the moon and learn about the nocturnal creatures that call Highlands Ranch home. Take a night hike to look and listen for animal sights and sounds. Bring your flashlight. 5:45-6:45 p.m. Meet at Fly’n B Park, 2910 W. Plaza Dr., Highlands Ranch.

Feb. 17-20 - Hunter Safety/Education Class– The course includes a minimum of 10 hours of classroom instruction encompassing all aspects of the Colorado Parks & Wildlife requirements. Students must pass a written examination and complete qualification shooting with a .22 caliber rifle. For questions, contact Steve Blue at sblue46@q.com or Amber Garrett at 720-240-5934. Fee: $10.

Feb. 20 – Little Nature Explorers: Sleeping Critters – Ages 3-5. Find out which animals are taking a long nap over the winter. What happens while they’re sleeping and when do they wake up? Children must be accompanied by an adult. A snack will be provided. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Meet at the Metro District’s Parks, Recreation & Open Space Service Center, 3280 Redstone Park Cir. Fee: resident $12, nonresident $14.

Register for Nature EdVentures programs online at www.highlandsranch.org or in person at the Metro District Parks, Recreation & Open Space Service Center, 3280 Redstone Park Circle. Each program costs $10 for residents or $12 for non-residents, and is held at the service center unless otherwise noted. Group discounts may apply. For more information call 303-791-2710.

Relay for Life Kick Off


Volunteers invite residents to join the fight against cancer

            A group of volunteers from Highlands Ranch and Lone Tree have come together to fight a common goal, find a cure for cancer. The group is the Relay for Life of Highlands Ranch and Lone Tree event committee. Committee Co-chairs Jay Carpenter and Theresa Hastings would like to invite you to attend the Relay Kick Off Tuesday, Feb. 11 at the Marriott Denver South.
            “Kick Off is a fun evening where we will celebrate this year’s Relay event scheduled for July 25,” said Carpenter. “Guests will have the opportunity to learn more about the mission of the American Cancer Society, meet other Relay for Life participants, and go home energized and excited for this year’s event.”
            Relay for Life is a way for the community to honor and celebrate the lives of local cancer survivors at an overnight event held to recognize that cancer doesn’t sleep. Since the first Relay For Life, held in 1985 in Tacoma, Washington, the event has raised more than $4 billion at more than 5,200 events throughout the country. Last year’s Highlands Ranch and Lone Tree event raised $65,331. This year’s committee has set a goal of raising $100,000.
            “If you are touched by cancer, and are interested in learning more about Relay for Life, we hope you will come to Kick Off on Feb. 11,” said Hastings. “It’s such a wonderful event that brings great people together and kicks off our local Relay event on a high note. Relay provides us with a way to celebrate and honor cancer survivors, remember those lost to the disease and fight back with the shared belief that cancer will one day be eliminated. Please join us Feb. 11.”
            The Relay for Life of Highlands Ranch and Lone Tree Kick Off is Tuesday, Feb. 11 at the Marriott Denver South located at 10345 Park Meadows Dr., Lone Tree. The event will be held from 6 until 8 p.m. with a brief program beginning at 6:30 p.m.
            To find out more about Relay for Life, visit www.rflhr-lt.org or email Jay Carpenter at henry.g.carpenter@ampf.com or Theresa Hastings at thastings.luminaria@gmail.com.

Monday, February 3, 2014

Sweetheart Ball

The Highlands Ranch Father & Daughter Sweetheart Ball is this weekend!  At the Highlands Ranch Mansion on Friday, February 7th from 6:30pm - 8:30pm, & Saturday, February 8th from 1:30pm - 3:30pm & 6:30pm - 8:30pm.  Tickets in advance are $25 and $33 at the door.  Each little sweetheart will receive a corsage and a special gift.  Some of the event highlights include dancing, refreshments, and a commemorative photo.  What a cute way for Father's to spend time with their little Sweethearts!

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Meet the Doula

Babies"R"Us is partnering with the pregnancy wellness center of Parker for an event on Wednesday, January 15th!  Come hear from a doula as she covers top tips to help ensure you have a comfortable birth.  Partners are encouraged to attend.  This free event will take at the Babies"R"Us in Highlands Ranch.

Wednesday, January 1, 2014