 Well, happy holidays GoMomGo readers!What are some of your December must-do's in Lane County? My troupe always heads to the "Snowfall" at 5th Street Market and sees the Hosanna Holiday Adventures production of Narnia. Mingled in with some cookie exchanges, caroling, Advent traditions, and more, Oregon is a quintessential place to spend the holidays. And this year we were invited to start a new tradition in Cottage Grove! The Village Green Resort is a hotel and meeting venue just 25 miles south of Eugene. They host public events throughout the year and are a popular choice for wedding and corporate events. But at Christmas time, they take it up a notch! A 14-acre garden adorned with over 300,000 lights.  Take your own photos with Santa with a very minimal (if any) line. Ambience complete with strolling carolers, fire pits, and holiday music. German food to comfort and gluhwein, cocoa, or cider to sip. I really appreciated the special touches throughout the resort. If the cold became too much to bare at any point, the Village Green offers a Family Loft within the hotel to play games, write letters to Santa, and sip on a hot beverage. And be sure to check out the artisan market with local vendors! My favorite things were exploring the tunnel of lights with my family...  ...and taking in the talented choir! Here they are inside the Village Green lobby. The best deal is to make a night of it and purchase one of their overnight packages which includes event tickets for all, food and beverage, keepsake mugs, and breakfast. Starts at $84. The hotel features a restaurant and lounge too! The lights are open through December 31. Be sure to check out their calendar for this year's hours and dates, and to save money by purchasing advance tickets. Tickets start at $5 depending on the evening you go, and children age 4 and under are always free!
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Heard of #mealprepmonday? It is the answer to preventing Thursday night drive-thru suppers or forty dollar delivery pizza. You experience what it is like to have a sous chef in your own kitchen. And you JUST FEEL BETTER, because you save money, time, and are eating nutritiously. As a mother of three boys (with one under three months!), my week is altogether more harmonious when I reserve just a little time for meal prep on Sunday or Monday. It’s my Sous Chef Day, where I prep enough ingredients in advance so that I breeze through my weeknight dinner menu. Sure, scheduling and preparing for meal prep day is somewhat of a pain, but I am certain that one hour of prep one day per week saves me hours of time later. Remember our last post on the new Whole Foods store in Eugene and how they are here to serve families? Whole Foods in Eugene is partnering with GoMomGo once again to offer a $50 gift card giveaway to one of our readers and to inspire five weeknight dinners that are quick, healthful, and affordable. Here’s how the Eugene store can help with #mealprepmonday –  The Meat Department. The happy butchers are there to work for you! Our menu this week includes chopped bacon…so I asked them to chop it to reduce my prep time in the kitchen. They assured me that they can and will prepare anything in the meat counter in any way that you ask. Try them!  Discount Days. Coupons. Sales. Try to shop on a Monday and you will score $3 off your rotisserie chicken. Additionally, download the Whole Foods app and peruse the coupons and current sales. They currently have a $5 off $20 of produce coupon available. And don’t forget to check the Whole Deal paper coupon booklet, available in the store.  Freebies. If you are bringing the kiddos, stop by the Customer Service Desk for a free snack.  365 Brand Items. Look for their private Whole Foods or 365 label on all sorts of products – Whole Foods has these high quality products manufactured by reputable companies so they can offer them at a lower price.  A Whole Foods-Inspired |
| Eugene is now home to Whole Foods Market. Their bulk section provides an affordable opportunity to try out some ingredients that may be new to you, are easy to add to your current regimen, and are deeply nourishing –all types of rice, beans, dried fruits, nuts, and lots of different grains. |  |
Their produce department often offers $5 off coupons...and, well, it’s just so pretty.
Look for their private Whole Foods or 365 label on all sorts of products – Whole Foods has these high quality products manufactured by reputable companies so they can offer them at a lower price.
And the Eugene store is designed in a way where it’s also just a fun place to hang out when downtown – think family date with slices of wood-burned oven pizza in their eating area, happy hour at their bar offering local brews,
or trying out one of the local businesses housed within Whole Foods: Ellenos Real Greek Yogurt offering fresh yogurt and smoothies (it’s ridiculously good), or a cup of Wandering Goat coffee.
When you visit, you’ll also find that there are very well educated team members available to answer your questions and make recommendations based on your interests or needs.
Currently, Heng Ou’s book, The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother motivates me. Ou highlights some of those “trendy” foods we’ve been hearing about, such as bone broth and turmeric, that have been nourishing people for centuries but are currently new again to us westerners.
Listed below are a few of Ou’s favorite pantry items, all of which can be affordably found
at Whole Foods. Click on links for detailed recipes, inspired by Ou.
Listed below are a few of Ou’s favorite pantry items, all of which can be affordably found
at Whole Foods. Click on links for detailed recipes, inspired by Ou.
- Adzuki beans – add to a Mother’s Bowl or soup/stew. They are small (good for picky eaters with texture issues) and the easiest bean to digest.
- Bulk grains and unsweetened dried fruit – combine to make Coconut Dried Fruit Granola.
- Black sesame seeds – add to smoothies or sprinkle in savory or sweet dishes for extra crunch. This ingredient is age defying, offers lactation support for nursing moms, and has B vitamins and iron.
- Goji berries – infuse these to make a nutrient rich hot tea or an iced tea you can sip on all day.
- Spirulina and Bee pollen – add one of these supplements to a smoothie for natural energy, an easy B vitamin and protein boost, and purification.
More Whole Foods tips:
And…Whole Foods Eugene is giving away a $50 gift card to a GoMomGo Reader! So awesome!
To enter:
Comment on this post with what you love about Whole Foods (if you've been there) or what interests you in Whole Foods if you haven't been yet.
You can also enter on our Facebook page & share for more entries.
Giveaway winner will be announced on Sunday, January 1, 2017 at noon. Happy New Year, right?
Hooray!
- Check out their weekly sales flyer
- The Whole Deal coupon book is available in store
- Download the Whole Foods digital coupon app
- Kids 12 & under can enjoy a free piece of fruit every time they are in the store (fruit is located at the Customer Service Desk).
- The Eugene store offers a private upstairs space that can be reserved for social groups, businesses, boards, etc…for free. The space has been used for mom's coffee dates (they have a baby gate), mom’s night out, and wine & cheese tasting events.
- They are committed to the community! Since opening in September 2016, they have donated over $23,000 to the Eugene/Springfield community through their 5% days.
- January 6-8, 25% off ALL supplements...some supplements will already be offered at promo price so will actually be 50% off when combined with the sale.
- January 14, Health & Wellness Fair from 10am-2pm – various vendors will be sampling their products, healthy recipe ideas, and Eugene Yoga will be running a couple free yoga classes in the private space upstairs.
- January 21, Barre3 free pop-up class and wellness education from 10:30am-1pm.
- February 11, Free Valentine’s day craft for kids, from 12-2pm.
- February 16, A Registered Dietician from PeaceHealth will be hosting a free educational class on maternal health, from 6pm-7pm.
And…Whole Foods Eugene is giving away a $50 gift card to a GoMomGo Reader! So awesome!
To enter:
Comment on this post with what you love about Whole Foods (if you've been there) or what interests you in Whole Foods if you haven't been yet.
You can also enter on our Facebook page & share for more entries.
Giveaway winner will be announced on Sunday, January 1, 2017 at noon. Happy New Year, right?
Hooray!
 | Here in Lane County we have a host of October-ish things to anticipate. One is the gem of a farm we have in Detering Orchards. For instance, long after other farms close for the season, Detering remains open. |
They will have u-pick produce through mid-November this year (did you know 95% of their produce is available for u-pick? which brings the price down per pound??). Once u-pick slows down, the farm store remains open until February with produce, Detering-made preserves, jams, sauces and fresh-pressed cider, locally-produced nuts, honey, and popcorn, and some truly fabulous options for fall and holiday gifts and décor.
Detering has a story.
Siblings Greig and Becky are the 3rd generation of Deterring’s to run the family farm. They’re committed to maintaining the values that their red-suspender-wearing father Roger passionately instilled…celebrating the seasons, providing affordable, family memories, and teaching children where their food comes from. Becky says, “I love the feeling of the fall here at Detering. And we all look forward to the field trips we host all season.”
Detering has a story.
Siblings Greig and Becky are the 3rd generation of Deterring’s to run the family farm. They’re committed to maintaining the values that their red-suspender-wearing father Roger passionately instilled…celebrating the seasons, providing affordable, family memories, and teaching children where their food comes from. Becky says, “I love the feeling of the fall here at Detering. And we all look forward to the field trips we host all season.”
 And this is THE TIME of the year to visit! They kick off Apple Daze this weekend and continue through October (8am-7pm on Saturdays, 8am-6pm on Sundays). This includes: Samples of apple cider and apple cobbler. Live music. Free corn maze and hay bale maze. Play area. Face painting. |   |
Available for low cost:
apple launcher, feeding the barn animals, and a tractor ride out to the u-pick orchard (kids are actually free for that one, adults are $1).
apple launcher, feeding the barn animals, and a tractor ride out to the u-pick orchard (kids are actually free for that one, adults are $1).
October 8-9:
join the Apple Daze Kickoff with pumpkin carving demonstrations and giveaways.
October 22-23:
bring a decorated or carved pumpkin and receive free Apple Blaster tickets!
October 29-30:
come dressed in your Halloween costumes for FREE apple blaster tickets and PRIZES for best costume!
join the Apple Daze Kickoff with pumpkin carving demonstrations and giveaways.
October 22-23:
bring a decorated or carved pumpkin and receive free Apple Blaster tickets!
October 29-30:
come dressed in your Halloween costumes for FREE apple blaster tickets and PRIZES for best costume!
| My family happens to be regulars at Detering. Recently, we tramped through the mazes, hit up the sample tables, launched a dozen apples and played. But the highlight was definitely picking apples… once we aggressively interviewed the staff for their recommendations. After all, Detering has over 30 apple varietals! |  |
The Mutsu. This is the all-around staff favorite due to its baking prowess. Because of its size, there are less overall apples to peel and they hold up really well in cobblers, crisps and pies. Becky loves all the large varietals of apples but recommends the little Jonathans for caramel apples or an easy snack for the kids. Our tractor driver, John, scoffed at the idea of picking a favorite. “Anything is my favorite when it’s picked fresh, in season.”
Other must-picks include the
Melrose and the Jonagolds.
Grab this handy chart at the farm to get an idea of what kind of apples to get for your dish or sauce. U-pick vary around 72 cents/pound.
Also available for picking:
pears, tomatoes, peppers and flowers.
Now, go! Enjoy!
Tell them GoMomGo sent you!
Melrose and the Jonagolds.
Grab this handy chart at the farm to get an idea of what kind of apples to get for your dish or sauce. U-pick vary around 72 cents/pound.
Also available for picking:
pears, tomatoes, peppers and flowers.
Now, go! Enjoy!
Tell them GoMomGo sent you!
Summer is approaching. And while GoMomGo has tried to make you aware of all the events, farms, and activities to enjoy with your family, it’s also nice to send the kids away for a bit of those long summer days.
May I recommend Nearby Nature?
May I recommend Nearby Nature?
The Nearby Nature program is currently based at Alton Baker Park, where they are also the park hosts. The program has existed for 24 years. They provide all sorts of classes, events and camps for the city.
My son and I went to visit and get a feel for their summer day camps. This is the part of the Learnscape, which encompasses fruit trees, herbs, native plants, and vegetables.
My son and I went to visit and get a feel for their summer day camps. This is the part of the Learnscape, which encompasses fruit trees, herbs, native plants, and vegetables.
Throughout the area are five special gathering places, such as Hazelnut Hollow and The Nest, which serve as home base for the different age groups at camp.
Natural shade and tree stumps provide a space for an outdoor theater, a swelling garden provides snacks and learning discoveries, trees beg to be climbed and burrows of mud provide sensory play --mother nature style.
There is plenty of unstructured free play, sandbox time, storytelling, art with recyclables, toys of rocks and sticks, and creativity with nature. Children are invited to engage all of their senses as they explore all that Nearby Nature has to offer.
There are day camps for children age 3-11. The preschoolers stay close to home base and go on a few short nature walks. The 4-5 year olds mosey out to the park, and kids age 6 & up venture out often for field trips, to climb trees, and to scale rock walls.
Each class has one paid adult instructor, one adult volunteer, and one teen volunteer. There are a max of 12 kids per camp. There is currently plenty of room in the preschool camps while the elementary age camps are filling up fast.
Each class has one paid adult instructor, one adult volunteer, and one teen volunteer. There are a max of 12 kids per camp. There is currently plenty of room in the preschool camps while the elementary age camps are filling up fast.
Nearby Nature also holds events and programs throughout the year. NatureQuest is coming up soon on June 25 from 10am-12pm. The whole family can attend for an outdoor play day in the Learnscape. Build fairy houses, stick forts, sandcastles, and more! Members FREE, non-members $5/family. Pre-register here or by calling 541-687-9699.
Visit their calendar to read about all of Nearby Nature's offerings!
Visit their calendar to read about all of Nearby Nature's offerings!
There are a few things I hope my children catch on to and hold dear in life. One is music appreciation, and even better, musical skills. We strive to expose them to all types of music and give them ample opportunity to play and experiment. I’m so grateful we live in an artistic community such as Eugene that provides multitude opportunity to learn, appreciate and enjoy music.
Recently my 6-year old son and I were invited to check out a brand new business, AllStar Rock Foundation, in downtown Eugene.
Recently my 6-year old son and I were invited to check out a brand new business, AllStar Rock Foundation, in downtown Eugene.
Proprietors Shane and Lisa Johnson were inspired by the franchise School of Rock. Their children were a part of the School of Rock in Dallas and they saw firsthand how it instilled confidence, poise, public-speaking ability, and self-awareness. Not all of their children continued on in music, but they all share deep gratitude for the exposure.
Caitlin Johnson, their daughter, is AllStar’s bass instructor. She is a bubbly, enthusiastic, generous soul who is so excited for the opportunity to teach Eugene her beloved instrument. She has played with some serious musicians – most recently having played bass for Dalton Rapattoni’s band, Flyaway Hero. Rapattoni is the most current third place winner from American Idol. She was sweet enough to help my three year-old with bass scales…
Caitlin Johnson, their daughter, is AllStar’s bass instructor. She is a bubbly, enthusiastic, generous soul who is so excited for the opportunity to teach Eugene her beloved instrument. She has played with some serious musicians – most recently having played bass for Dalton Rapattoni’s band, Flyaway Hero. Rapattoni is the most current third place winner from American Idol. She was sweet enough to help my three year-old with bass scales…
while my six year-old son had a one-on-one lesson with Jake…
Jake Fitzgerald has been playing music for 11 years. He started on bass at age 10 and went on to study guitar, drums, piano, ukulele, banjo, and dulcimer to name a few. His music influences span the spectrum from Punk, Rock, Folk, Jazz, Classical and beyond, creating a plethora of music styles for him to pull from to expand his own creative styles. He has had the experience of touring and recording with bands over the years. Jake has an encouraging and good-natured attitude about learning music, which his students love about him. He loves sharing his skills and knowledge of music with all his students and makes each lesson unique to that student.
What I deeply appreciate about All Star Rock is their conviction to get the students playing onstage as soon as possible, playing music they enjoy. After their first private lesson, the student will get to plug in and immediately get that experience playing on the AllStar stage. This is highly motivating for the student…my 6 year old learned some legit strumming patters and chords on the electric in just one private lesson and was super serious about his opportunity to play on stage. Now, nearly a month after that lesson, he continues to ask when he gets to go back and “plug in”!
AllStar Rock’s programs are for students age 5 through adult. Students learn how to play by rocking together with fellow peers, creating a supportive and motivating environment in which to learn. Each program is a 10-week course that culminates in at least two performances in a concert-like setting at a local venue (possibilities include Beergarden, Cozmic Pizza, and a few outdoor venues). During the 10 weeks, the student has a 1-on-1 private lesson each week with an instructor and one weekly rehearsal with their newly formed band. This integrated method inspires students to be their best, peaks their interest in the theory of music and creates a team dynamic. You can visit their website to sign up for a free lesson!
See program descriptions and details here.
A great way to try out AllStar is to sign up for summer camp! If you sign up before June 10 you get 25% off. Camps are for 7-18 year olds, no experience necessary.
And again, this place isn't just for your kid. I seriously can't stop thinking about doing an adult program at some time. I've always wanted to learn the bass! I highly encourage you to wishlist an AllStar rock program for a much needed gift to you or your partner someday!! I'll come watch you perform at the Beergarden!
Ever since my son learned to crawl, there have been a few things that were quite certain – he is FAST, agile and veeeery busy. I have spent the last six years trying to keep up with his ever-moving body. One can only holler, “Control your body!” so many times before realizing I. Need. Help.
Last fall when he turned 6, we began a quest for a martial arts studio in Eugene – hoping to find a fun, natural way for him to learn to discipline his body. No one in my family has trained in martial arts before so we were uncertain of what to look for. After visiting a few places, we still felt unsure. I’m seriously so glad we took a chance on one more place.
Last fall when he turned 6, we began a quest for a martial arts studio in Eugene – hoping to find a fun, natural way for him to learn to discipline his body. No one in my family has trained in martial arts before so we were uncertain of what to look for. After visiting a few places, we still felt unsure. I’m seriously so glad we took a chance on one more place.
My son began training with the Little Champs (age 4-7) at McKenzie Martial Arts (on W. 11th across from Lowes) last September. During his complimentary visit I noticed a few things: the coaches called him by name, remembered his name throughout the duration of the class, and they asked the other students to help him out and show him how things are done. It was done in a very respectable, authentic manner.
The kids are quickly taught that they are teammates and are there to assist each other. There is an intentional balance of play, instruction and drills. I also noticed the coaches were grown adults rather than high school or junior students. It is abundantly clear that MMA’s coaches understand child development and how to work with each age level to help them succeed.
The kids are quickly taught that they are teammates and are there to assist each other. There is an intentional balance of play, instruction and drills. I also noticed the coaches were grown adults rather than high school or junior students. It is abundantly clear that MMA’s coaches understand child development and how to work with each age level to help them succeed.
I later discovered that the two coaches of the Little Champs, Adam Roberts and Terry Britten, are the co-founders of MMA, which started in 2009. I am so grateful that they take the time to coach every age level – from age 4 to adult. Read more about their story here.
I knew in our first visit that we had found our place, and as I was thanking Coach Adam following class, my son ran up to me – as if on cue – and declared, “MOM! I pick this place!!”
After several months of watching my son develop his skills, grow in confidence and just have fun in his 2x week MMA regimen, I was a bit jealous. The office manager, Holly, encouraged me to try the women’s kickfit class – so I have officially been training at MMA too. You know the kind of exercise that hurts so good? This is women’s kickfit at MMA. Coach Shannon crafts a workout that balances strength and cardio all while learning self-defense skills.
I knew in our first visit that we had found our place, and as I was thanking Coach Adam following class, my son ran up to me – as if on cue – and declared, “MOM! I pick this place!!”
After several months of watching my son develop his skills, grow in confidence and just have fun in his 2x week MMA regimen, I was a bit jealous. The office manager, Holly, encouraged me to try the women’s kickfit class – so I have officially been training at MMA too. You know the kind of exercise that hurts so good? This is women’s kickfit at MMA. Coach Shannon crafts a workout that balances strength and cardio all while learning self-defense skills.
There is truly something for every family member at MMA – even a specially designed play area where younger siblings hang while parents observe class. Also, Emily of GoMomGo will soon bring us another MMA story about her kids training in the Juniors’ class (age 8-12) and her husband training in the adult classes.
Q &A with Coach Adam
GoMomGo: What are some of the long-term benefits of a student training in Jeet Kune Do and Gracie Jiu Jitsu? What other training styles do students learn and how do they differ?
Coach Adam: McKenzie Martial Arts is a self-defense school. We are the only school teaching both Bruce Lee's contemporary Jeet Kune Do and Gracie Jiu Jitsu. Everything we teach is 100% intended for, and applicable to real life street defense and bully defense. We are grateful that there are traditional studios in our community that carry on the time-honored customs of Tae Kwon Do, Karate, Kung Fu, etc. but what we teach at MMA is fighting concepts. Everyone that leaves our school will be able to realistically defend themselves regardless of their age, size or ability.
GoMomGo: Your motto is "keep it playful." Can you explain that?
Coach Adam: This is an amazing motto that comes from our Gracie Jiu Jitsu family. It truly embodies the lifestyle and attitude at McKenzie Martial Arts. There is a certain level of intensity and seriousness that is inherent with self-defense and combat sports. Most people can easily match this intensity and "KeepitReal", but we want to instill in our students a training philosophy that will keep you on the mats for a lifetime. Life is serious, "KeepitPlayful" is a good reminder to us all to have fun and stay safe!
GoMomGo: MMA consistently has been voted top martial arts studio by the Register Guard...what do you suppose are some of the reasons MMA stands out?
Coach Adam: We are excited to announce that we were just again voted the 2016 top Martial Arts Studio in Lane County! We have been honored with this award every year since we have opened our doors and are humbled each time by this amazing community recognition. We believe that we stand out from other martial arts schools because of our realistic and contemporary approach. We truly have a unique system that appeals to much of our community.
GoMomGo: Anything else you'd want families who are new to martial arts to know?
Coach Adam: McKenzie Martial Arts is truly dedicated to empowering our community. We believe that the stronger we are as individuals, the stronger we are as a whole. We hope that everyone has a chance at some point to come "KeepitPlayful" with us!
Thanks, Adam! So great to hear all about McKenzie Martial Arts!
GoMomGo: What are some of the long-term benefits of a student training in Jeet Kune Do and Gracie Jiu Jitsu? What other training styles do students learn and how do they differ?
Coach Adam: McKenzie Martial Arts is a self-defense school. We are the only school teaching both Bruce Lee's contemporary Jeet Kune Do and Gracie Jiu Jitsu. Everything we teach is 100% intended for, and applicable to real life street defense and bully defense. We are grateful that there are traditional studios in our community that carry on the time-honored customs of Tae Kwon Do, Karate, Kung Fu, etc. but what we teach at MMA is fighting concepts. Everyone that leaves our school will be able to realistically defend themselves regardless of their age, size or ability.
GoMomGo: Your motto is "keep it playful." Can you explain that?
Coach Adam: This is an amazing motto that comes from our Gracie Jiu Jitsu family. It truly embodies the lifestyle and attitude at McKenzie Martial Arts. There is a certain level of intensity and seriousness that is inherent with self-defense and combat sports. Most people can easily match this intensity and "KeepitReal", but we want to instill in our students a training philosophy that will keep you on the mats for a lifetime. Life is serious, "KeepitPlayful" is a good reminder to us all to have fun and stay safe!
GoMomGo: MMA consistently has been voted top martial arts studio by the Register Guard...what do you suppose are some of the reasons MMA stands out?
Coach Adam: We are excited to announce that we were just again voted the 2016 top Martial Arts Studio in Lane County! We have been honored with this award every year since we have opened our doors and are humbled each time by this amazing community recognition. We believe that we stand out from other martial arts schools because of our realistic and contemporary approach. We truly have a unique system that appeals to much of our community.
GoMomGo: Anything else you'd want families who are new to martial arts to know?
Coach Adam: McKenzie Martial Arts is truly dedicated to empowering our community. We believe that the stronger we are as individuals, the stronger we are as a whole. We hope that everyone has a chance at some point to come "KeepitPlayful" with us!
Thanks, Adam! So great to hear all about McKenzie Martial Arts!
NEW/PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS -- MMA wants to invite you to come visit! Simply show up 10 minutes early for the class you want to visit and talk with a coach or staff at the front desk to get started. Mention GoMomGo referred you - if you join by May 21, you will get 50% off enrollment fee.
Current MMA Schedule.
Also, visit their FAQ page for more helpful info.
CURRENT STUDENTS – mention you read the GoMomGo article and get 10% off in the pro shop through May 21.
Be sure to check out MMA's awesome summer camps, too. They have an early bird discount through June 20. Such a perfect way to get your kids moving & learning this summer!
Current MMA Schedule.
Also, visit their FAQ page for more helpful info.
CURRENT STUDENTS – mention you read the GoMomGo article and get 10% off in the pro shop through May 21.
Be sure to check out MMA's awesome summer camps, too. They have an early bird discount through June 20. Such a perfect way to get your kids moving & learning this summer!
When you hear the camp instructor say, “Unfortunately we don’t have the technology to put lasers on our Speeders...although, that would be pretty cool,” you know it’s gonna be a good day at camp.
My kindergartner and I recently visited one of Bricks 4 Kidz many spring break camps. This one was themed Star Wars Lego and met at Willamalane Sports and Recreation Center.
My little guy hummed the Star Wars theme song the whole way there. He is the kid who uses the Force to open the automatic sliding doors at Target (moms of little boys -- you know what I'm talking about). So I was quite appreciative of the Star Wars-y ambience, complete with music and a video, upon arrival.
We were greeted by Joe, one of B4K instructors in Lane County. B4K is a franchised business with a local chapter in Lane County, recently started by Zach Smith and his mother.
Zach said, “I originally found Bricks 4 Kidz while looking for cool education programs for kids. I've always been very passionate about helping people improve their lives. Bricks 4 Kidz looked like the perfect opportunity to offer something fun and educational to make a positive impact in the community. I showed it to my mom and she fell in love with the idea too.”
B4K classes provide an extraordinary atmosphere for boys and girls, where they learn, build, and play with Lego bricks. Zach said, “I really wish I had something like this when I was a kid. It's very inspiring watching the fun and excitement among the kids while they build creativitiy and learn things that help get them ready for the real world. The kids and the teachers have a blast together which makes it very rewarding.”
Learn more here about B4K. In addition to spring break and summer camps, they also do a daily after-school program at a number of local schools. Check the list here.
My little guy hummed the Star Wars theme song the whole way there. He is the kid who uses the Force to open the automatic sliding doors at Target (moms of little boys -- you know what I'm talking about). So I was quite appreciative of the Star Wars-y ambience, complete with music and a video, upon arrival.
We were greeted by Joe, one of B4K instructors in Lane County. B4K is a franchised business with a local chapter in Lane County, recently started by Zach Smith and his mother.
Zach said, “I originally found Bricks 4 Kidz while looking for cool education programs for kids. I've always been very passionate about helping people improve their lives. Bricks 4 Kidz looked like the perfect opportunity to offer something fun and educational to make a positive impact in the community. I showed it to my mom and she fell in love with the idea too.”
B4K classes provide an extraordinary atmosphere for boys and girls, where they learn, build, and play with Lego bricks. Zach said, “I really wish I had something like this when I was a kid. It's very inspiring watching the fun and excitement among the kids while they build creativitiy and learn things that help get them ready for the real world. The kids and the teachers have a blast together which makes it very rewarding.”
Learn more here about B4K. In addition to spring break and summer camps, they also do a daily after-school program at a number of local schools. Check the list here.
B4K supplies tablets and project kits from which instructors can generate dozens of Lego creations. On the last day of the Star Wars Lego Camp, the students built a Speeder. They watched a two-minute video to become familiar with the concept of a Star Wars Speeder and then gathered around tables to build.
Joe said this was the most time-consuming and challenging project of the week but after a quick informal survey of the kids, it was also the most favorite project. Kids like a good challenge!
Students worked at different paces, those who finished first were encouraged by Joe to, “Partner with someone and help them finish, like a good Jedi.” Once the Speeders were complete, it was time to race!
Besides building models, students also do mosaics using single bricks and a Lego base board and 3D figures using classic bricks.
I appreciate how B4K does not use Lego themed sets (which are no small cost and are NEVER on sale) and teaches kids concepts to use their imagination with the basic, classic Lego bricks. I also appreciate Joe’s thoughtful, conscientious instruction. He emphasized play and kept encouraging kids they could do these challenging projects on their own – even when the kids were stumped. They perservered and made it through a very tough project!
B4K wants GoMomGo readers to know that the program is the perfect combination of fun and educational. The hands-on building helps engage kids. In the after school classes B4K teaches concepts of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) which gives kids valuable concepts and skills that will help them later in life. They work in teams and learn to share and work together.
GOMOMGO DISCOUNT!!
Zach and B4K are happy to offer a summer camp discount to GoMomGo readers. Please call 541-600-6614, mention GoMomGo and receive $25 off a summer camp!
Summer is coming soon! Make sure you check our summer camp page to start planning and stay tuned for our next Summer Camp feature with Old School Eugene!
I appreciate how B4K does not use Lego themed sets (which are no small cost and are NEVER on sale) and teaches kids concepts to use their imagination with the basic, classic Lego bricks. I also appreciate Joe’s thoughtful, conscientious instruction. He emphasized play and kept encouraging kids they could do these challenging projects on their own – even when the kids were stumped. They perservered and made it through a very tough project!
B4K wants GoMomGo readers to know that the program is the perfect combination of fun and educational. The hands-on building helps engage kids. In the after school classes B4K teaches concepts of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) which gives kids valuable concepts and skills that will help them later in life. They work in teams and learn to share and work together.
GOMOMGO DISCOUNT!!
Zach and B4K are happy to offer a summer camp discount to GoMomGo readers. Please call 541-600-6614, mention GoMomGo and receive $25 off a summer camp!
Summer is coming soon! Make sure you check our summer camp page to start planning and stay tuned for our next Summer Camp feature with Old School Eugene!
...AND Last Chance to enter The Dancing Weasel Giveaway!
This month we are featuring The Dancing Weasel Toy Store as our business of the month. You can read interview from mother-daughter owners here, and now get a first hand report of what a visit to their store is like!
Getting there and basic info:
Whenever I hear a business is downtown, I hesitate before bringing my two-year old along. I assume the trip will include a half-hour or so of cruising the one-way streets while trying to dodge metered parking and then tweaking my back as I wrangle my toddler down a busy sidewalk…but The Dancing Weasel has their own private, easily accessible and safe lot. A relief!
Days/Hours:
Monday-Saturday: 10am to 5:30pm, Sunday: 11am to 5pm
Location:
30 E. 17th Ave., Eugene, Oregon 97401
(Between Willamette and Oak, right across the street from Brails Restaurant.)
Store experience:
Speaking of toddlers, I also don’t sign up to bring him to an unfamiliar store on my first visit. You just never know when the doe-eyed sweet face will turn Incredible Hulk and send his wrath out on a beautifully executed store display.
However, I told myself, this is a toy store for goodness sake, I’m sure they’re familiar with toddlers.
And yes, they were ready for my little Hulk. He innocently plucked a few things from the shelves to check them out before toddling back to the well-planned out play area in the back of the store. There was a large table with toys for him to peruse, books to thumb through, and a couple ride-on toys to try out. He was completely satisfied and mesmerized, and I got to do my own toy shopping for an upcoming birthday party.
Aya was manning the store that day and was full of ideas for my gift. The items they carry come at all sorts of price-points and I was able to get a thoughtful, creative gift for under ten bucks.
AND, they gift-wrap. For FREE.
A few other things I loved about my visit?
GIVEAWAY DETAILS:
Comment below with your mom super-hero name, and the three winners will be announced MONDAY, May 25.
If you entered in Post I, no need to enter again.
If you win, rush on down to The Dancing Weasel as prizes are first come, first pick, and you have seven days to claim your gift! Gifts are pictured below. Good luck!
This month we are featuring The Dancing Weasel Toy Store as our business of the month. You can read interview from mother-daughter owners here, and now get a first hand report of what a visit to their store is like!
Getting there and basic info:
Whenever I hear a business is downtown, I hesitate before bringing my two-year old along. I assume the trip will include a half-hour or so of cruising the one-way streets while trying to dodge metered parking and then tweaking my back as I wrangle my toddler down a busy sidewalk…but The Dancing Weasel has their own private, easily accessible and safe lot. A relief!
Days/Hours:
Monday-Saturday: 10am to 5:30pm, Sunday: 11am to 5pm
Location:
30 E. 17th Ave., Eugene, Oregon 97401
(Between Willamette and Oak, right across the street from Brails Restaurant.)
Store experience:
Speaking of toddlers, I also don’t sign up to bring him to an unfamiliar store on my first visit. You just never know when the doe-eyed sweet face will turn Incredible Hulk and send his wrath out on a beautifully executed store display.
However, I told myself, this is a toy store for goodness sake, I’m sure they’re familiar with toddlers.
And yes, they were ready for my little Hulk. He innocently plucked a few things from the shelves to check them out before toddling back to the well-planned out play area in the back of the store. There was a large table with toys for him to peruse, books to thumb through, and a couple ride-on toys to try out. He was completely satisfied and mesmerized, and I got to do my own toy shopping for an upcoming birthday party.
Aya was manning the store that day and was full of ideas for my gift. The items they carry come at all sorts of price-points and I was able to get a thoughtful, creative gift for under ten bucks.
AND, they gift-wrap. For FREE.
A few other things I loved about my visit?
- They have NO commercial products in their store. No Elsa. No Avengers. Just well-researched, thoughtful products – some of which you can try out at the store. It’s a very hands-on kind of place.
- They have an ongoing calendar of events and activities that cater to kids and their parents. Story-time, holiday events, music-time, etc. Check out their online calendar for details. They always host a story or music time at 11AM on Thursdays plus lots of special events and sales throughout the year.
- Danita and Aya are awesome and generous and do all sorts of things to help kids in Lane County. They also have agreed to giveaway a few of their products to three GoMomGo readers!
GIVEAWAY DETAILS:
Comment below with your mom super-hero name, and the three winners will be announced MONDAY, May 25.
If you entered in Post I, no need to enter again.
If you win, rush on down to The Dancing Weasel as prizes are first come, first pick, and you have seven days to claim your gift! Gifts are pictured below. Good luck!
Westside Indoor Playground (WIPG) is a co-op of local parents who gather almost daily and set up a gigantic indoor playground for their children, age 5 and under.
It is a lifesaver – especially during these chronically cold and wet days of winter.
You know the giant plastic slides and climbing structures and really cool ride-on toys you wish you owned but don’t have room for and don’t want to spend money on?
WIPG has multitudes of ALL those things. There is a roller coaster, two giant climbing structures, a mini trampoline, see-saw, lots of bouncing, rocking plastic animals and dozens of tricycles, wagons, and cars. There are giant building blocks, tunnels, and buckets of toys, books and puzzles. AND YES, there is an area reserved for babies and walkers complete with exer-saucers and tiny climbing structures.
It is a lifesaver – especially during these chronically cold and wet days of winter.
You know the giant plastic slides and climbing structures and really cool ride-on toys you wish you owned but don’t have room for and don’t want to spend money on?
WIPG has multitudes of ALL those things. There is a roller coaster, two giant climbing structures, a mini trampoline, see-saw, lots of bouncing, rocking plastic animals and dozens of tricycles, wagons, and cars. There are giant building blocks, tunnels, and buckets of toys, books and puzzles. AND YES, there is an area reserved for babies and walkers complete with exer-saucers and tiny climbing structures.
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What I enjoy the most is getting to connect with other parents as our children learn to socialize with one another. This is especially enjoyable at the seasonal parties where co-op members come together to celebrate Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, etc. Each child walks away from the party with a little gift, a craft, and a belly full of some healthy snacks (and maybe a sugar-y treat or two).
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Many indoor drop-in rates for a place like this (gymnastics studios, trampoline parks, etc.) charge a minimum of $5 per child for one hour.
The cost for WIPG? For your entire family to join for January through June of 2015, it is just $40. Your only other commitment is to help set up or tear down the play area two times a month, to participate in a toy-cleaning once per quarter, and to serve on a committee that requires about an hour of your time each quarter.
That’s it. You can attend WIPG as often as you like, for as long as you like with this great deal!
The WIPG has been meeting at Bethesda Lutheran Church in West Eugene on 4445 Royal Avenue for nearly two decades. The church generously donates a large play space and storage area for WIPG. You do not have to be a member of the church to join WIPG as it is not a religious organization. The relationship between the church and the co-op is just a great example of the caring, generous virtue within our Eugene community.
The cost for WIPG? For your entire family to join for January through June of 2015, it is just $40. Your only other commitment is to help set up or tear down the play area two times a month, to participate in a toy-cleaning once per quarter, and to serve on a committee that requires about an hour of your time each quarter.
That’s it. You can attend WIPG as often as you like, for as long as you like with this great deal!
The WIPG has been meeting at Bethesda Lutheran Church in West Eugene on 4445 Royal Avenue for nearly two decades. The church generously donates a large play space and storage area for WIPG. You do not have to be a member of the church to join WIPG as it is not a religious organization. The relationship between the church and the co-op is just a great example of the caring, generous virtue within our Eugene community.
Currently, WIPG gathers 9am-11:30am on M/W/F and 9am-1pm on T/TH (in accordance with the Bethel School District calendar).
As enticing as WIPG may be sounding to you right about now, it may also sound a little germ-tastic. But the WIPG maintains a very clean environment by having disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer available, stringently deep-cleaning the toys on a regular basis, and upholding a sick policy.
I am so glad we decided to join almost a year and a half ago. It is where my oldest son perfected his pedaling skills, where my youngest son wore his first Halloween costume, and where I have met many kind, compassionate and creative friends. In the warmer months we find ourselves naturally scheduling meet-ups at nearby parks and farms.
As enticing as WIPG may be sounding to you right about now, it may also sound a little germ-tastic. But the WIPG maintains a very clean environment by having disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer available, stringently deep-cleaning the toys on a regular basis, and upholding a sick policy.
I am so glad we decided to join almost a year and a half ago. It is where my oldest son perfected his pedaling skills, where my youngest son wore his first Halloween costume, and where I have met many kind, compassionate and creative friends. In the warmer months we find ourselves naturally scheduling meet-ups at nearby parks and farms.
GoMomGo readers-
You are invited to try a FREE week!
Just contact Westside Indoor Playground via
the WIPG Facebook page
& mention this post for one FREE week pass
valid January 27-February 28, 2015
Awesome!
You are invited to try a FREE week!
Just contact Westside Indoor Playground via
the WIPG Facebook page
& mention this post for one FREE week pass
valid January 27-February 28, 2015
Awesome!
The Details:
Westside Indoor Playground
4445 Royal Avenue, Eugene
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
9am-11:30am
Tuesday and Thursday
9am-1pm
$40
January through June 2015
WIPG Facebook page
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Christy Rice is a mom to two great boys. They love to explore all that Lane County has to offer. Christy is a superstar at researching & finding awesome picks & deals for GoMomGo! Check out more of her posts here.
Westside Indoor Playground
4445 Royal Avenue, Eugene
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
9am-11:30am
Tuesday and Thursday
9am-1pm
$40
January through June 2015
WIPG Facebook page
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Christy Rice is a mom to two great boys. They love to explore all that Lane County has to offer. Christy is a superstar at researching & finding awesome picks & deals for GoMomGo! Check out more of her posts here.
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