Point Woronzof Beach

  It has been a beautiful week so far and the forecast calls for sunny skies throughout the rest of the week! Today the kids and I met up with Peace Tree Kids through the Anchorage Outdoor Family Network. As usual, we were running late. I can't seem to get anywhere on time with 3 kids. Anyways, I had never been to Pt Woronzof but wanted to get some of those great photos that people are always posting. To get there, take Northern Lights west past Earthquake Park. You go so far you almost think you should turn around because you are starting to go around the airport. Pt Woronzof parking is on the right hand side.

 I brought my trusty BOB stroller. The picture doesn't show very well, but it is rocky trail. The BOB only made it down half way. I suggest putting the little ones in a Ergo or pack. Bring your buckets and shovels! Make sure the kiddos have their rain gear on because they will get wet! This beach is a lot easier to get down to then the Kincaid Beach.

 There were BEAUTIFUL views of the surrounding mountains. We only stayed in one place but you can walk the beach for miles. If you walk past the graffiti building, you can see Anchorage. Airplanes were flying right over us, which was pretty loud. But great time for those kids who love airplanes!

 Kaden was enjoying throwing rocks in. The girls were just trying to stay warm. Their hands got cold and wet pretty fast. I'm really excited for summer so we can go back and visit. You could see chunks of ice floating by. When they tide is out, there is a lot of mud to play in. Everyone stayed pretty dry until the very end when Brooke decided to walk out farther. You would think she would listen to her wise mom saying "Brooke, that's far enough." Nope, out she walked and plop she went. Face first into the cold water. Sigh. That is generally how our water visits end. I'm glad I've learned from my mistakes and bring extra clothes to any water playdates.

 While the kiddos were munching on snacks, I pulled over in a parking lot to see the overlook of Anchorage. I didn't have my camera, just my phone. We will be back to take some better photos!

FYI the Peace Tree Kids meet up every Wednesday at a different location! You can also meet up with Skedaddle on Tuesday or Taiga Trekkers on Thursday! Be sure to visit them through the Anchorage Outdoor Family Network!

Bella Kids Gift Certificate Giveaway (closed)

 This is the year of second hand clothing sales here in Alaska! AK Mom 2 Mom and Hand Me Ups already had their sales, next is Bella Kids from April 21-23 in Palmer at the Palmer Depot. Bella Kids is a consignment sale where you can buy all sorts of kid items! If you have lots of kid gear that you are trying to get rid of, you can bring it Bella Kids and they will sell it for you!

 Are you pregnant with your first child? This will be a great place to visit to do some one stop shopping for baby! There will be clothes, toys, strollers, car seats, play equipment, shoes, swings, bikes and more! Visit them on facebook to keep up to date on the sale.

 Are you like me and have bins full of clothes from baby to kid sizes? Register, tag, and bring it to Samantha, owner of Bella Kids. She and her staff of volunteers will sell it for you! There are perks of being a volunteer as well! What a great thing, drop off your items, she sells them and you get money back for what sells! Visit Bella Kids website to learn more about the ins and outs of consigning with them!

 If you own a business that is oriented towards babies, mothers, families, or kids, you can rent a table at the event and reach a lot of your clientele! Visit the website to learn more!

 So you gonna go?? Samantha is giving away a $20 gift certificate towards the sale. $20 towards kid gear, who wouldn't want that! First Samantha is going to tell us about herself and Bella Kids. Take it away Samantha.

Tell us about yourself and how you started your business.

I am Mom to 4 kids, a girl and 3 boys (in that order), 7, 5, 3 and almost 1. I have lived in Alaska almost 11 years now having moved here from Virginia after I met my husband. The idea for starting Bella Kids began after hearing about seasonal sales from our sister-in-law who frequents a large seasonal sale in the Portland, OR area. She would buy items that I needed for my kids and ship them up for me. We decided that Alaskan parents and grandparents would love the chance to shop and sell at a seasonal sale and thus Bella Kids was born.

When are your events?


Our first event is April 21-23, 2012 at the Palmer Depot in Palmer [:)] . Volunteers, Consignors and New Moms have the opportunity to shop early (please see our website for more details). To start we will be having our events twice a year, in the spring and fall.

What do you love about Alaska?


Alaska is a great place to have and raise kids. We have the modern conveniences of living in an urban area yet we have the wilderness in our backyard with great hiking, camping, fishing and more, along with spectacular scenery. My favorite time of year Alaska is summertime and camping with my family down on the Kenai Peninsula where we take part in our extended family's commercial fishing operation.

 Okay here is the deal, in order to win, you obviously have to live in Alaska. Follow the rules and you have several chances to win! Be sure you will be attending the event! Giveaway closes Tuesday at midnight! Support Local!

Move Me Fit and Creative Movement Classes

 I got the opportunity to try out the Move Me Fit class and my kiddos got to try the Creative Movement class that was held at Alaska Dance Theatre this past Wednesday. The Move Me Fit class is described as this: "Our class, taught by classically trained Pilates instructor is designed to lengthen and strengthen your body. We will learn about our bodies strengths and weaknesses, and use that knowledge to gain stamina, flexibility, coordination, and muscle tone. "

 This was my first time ever doing Pilates. As you can see in the photo of the instructor above, a lot of these moves are using your core. Well...in my case TRYING to use your core. Three kids and two C sections can do a number on a woman's body! But that is the purpose of the class is to strengthen your core, right? This is a great class for all those mommas trying to retrain those abs. The instructor was great at explaining what to do. She also modified the poses since I had a herniated bellybutton.

 This is an hour long class that will work you. Required focus on how you are using your muscles. I was sore for 2 days after. The drop in rate is $7 a class or you can get a $60 10 visit punch card. The great thing about this is while you are working on your rocking body, you can have your little ones taking the Creative Movements class right next door!

 Here is the description for the Creative Movement class, " Explore the joy of movement through the elements of space, time and energy. The course develops the creative potential, builds self-esteem and helps all students experience success." This class is for 3-5 year olds and it's $70 for a 4 week session.

 Kaden was a little disappointed at first to be the only boy in class. He was rolling his eyes at me. When did he turn 16?! Brooke was so excited to go dance. It was cute seeing the other girls in their leotards and tights. I snuck out of my class later to see what Kaden and Brooke were doing in class. I heard the instructor ask them to pretend to be ice skating, so they all skated around. It was great to see them using their imaginations and moving around. There was time for direction and creativity.

 This photo cracks me up.  Brooke was hoping everywhere, I'm sure Kaden was asking a question, and I love what is going on in the background. Teaching this age is like herding cats. The teacher was so kind and calm. She allowed the kids to move but kept them focused. She had commented that Kaden was rolling his eyes. I guess he is "too cool."

 Overall, I really enjoyed our visit. Reminded me of how out of shape I am! The only negative thing I think is the price of the Creative Movements class. Kind of spendy. But it would be worth it for you to work out and know that your kid is using his brain and being active instead of sitting in the childcare of the gym.

 If you want more information, visit the Alaska Dance Theatre site or call them at  277-9592.

Kittiwake Shirt Giveaway (closed)

 I first saw these cool shirts posted on Sweet Adeline's Facebook page and wanted one for myself! I found out these awesome designs are from Kittiwake AK. I have lived in and visited many states and I think Alaska has some of the greatest local artists. I think they are so great because they have great beauty to pull from our state. Support local!

 I mean come on, where else is it cool to wear a cute t-shirt with Xtra Tuffs on it? Aren't they adorable!?Wanna win a shirt for your little one? Kat from Kittiwake AK will be giving away a ski goggle or Xtra Tuff shirt. She has baby to kid sizes! If you win, you can visit her booth at the Baby & Toddler Fair and pick a different design that you have your heart set on instead.

 Guess what? These great designs are on shirts and sweatshirts for adults! She also has some GORGEOUS knitted beanies that I'm eyeing. I'm very excited to add a shirt to my collection of local Alaskan artists! You gonna get one? On to learn more about this creative lady, Kat!



Tell us a little about you and how you started your business.

I graduated from Union College in NY in 2001 and am a local art teacher in the anchorage school district. I have two children - my daughter Grace age 4 and my son Liam age 2. I've always enjoyed drawing and painting things that I see as being uniquely Alaskan. I began sketching xtra tuff boots a few years ago, and last Spring I took one of my drawings and screened it on a shirt for my daughter Grace. From there, I had friends and family members ask me to make more, and as a result, in the Spring of 2011 Kittiwake was born. My nickname growing up was "Bird", and so my company's name is a reference to that childhood nickname since a Kittiwake is an Alaskan sea bird. I currently have 6 different designs available, and many more in the works.

Where can one buy your products?

The next event where I will have my booth set up is at Alaska's Baby and Toddler Expo on Saturday April 21st. There are 5 local stores that carry Kittiwake Alaskan Apparel. Select adult items can be found in Anchorage at Skinny Raven and Ski AK. Select baby/kid items can be found in Anchorage at Sweet Adeline's and Spoiled, and in Eagle River at Picture This. I also designed the logo for the race shirts for the upcoming Faster Than A Falcon 5K (race/ fundraiser) on May 12th. All proceeds for this event will go directly to The Boys and Girls Clubs of Alaska.

What do you love about Alaska?

I love that friends in Alaska are more like family, and that there is no limit on the number of outdoor adventures available all year long. I also love how Alaskans really stand behind local artists and shop local.

Okay, so here are the rules, you gotta be an Alaskan resident! You have an opportunity to be entered 3 times, just follow the directions! The giveaway will be closed Friday at midnight. Be sure to visit Kat's Kittiwake AK booth at the Baby & Toddler Expo on April 21st at the Egan center! Good luck!!

Easter Happenings in Alaska 2012

Lots of fun to be had around Alaska! If you know of any event that is not on this page please post on the comments so I can add it! Happy Easter everyone!

Anchorage/Eagle River/Girdwood

ZOO Eggstravaganza- April 7th12-4 Alaska Zoo It's a scavenger hunt of sorts. Kids will have to find which numbered eggs are in which animal exhibits.  Complete the hunt and win a prize. And of course the animals are in for eggs-tra special treats that day too, come check it out.

Easter Egg Hunt- April 7th 11a-1p Anchorage City Church

Easter Fun Day-  April 8th Arctic Valley Easter Egg hunts, prizes, skiing, tubing... What could be more fun than playing in the snow on Easter! Lifts open 11 am to 5:30 pm, Tube Park open 10:30 - 12:30, 1-3 and 3:30-5:30. Food, fun and maybe a giant bunny! Please bring a dozen or so colored hard-boiled eggs for the cause! Eggs are hidden all around the lodge for younger kids who don't ski, and all over the mountain for folks who ski or ride. Bring your favorite basket too, for collecting

Easter Bazaar- April 7th Egan Center 10a-6p Here comes the Easter Bazaar with lots of Easter bunnies and two Easter Egg Hunts. Admission is free. This is a byob event (bring your own basket) for collecting eggs. Two grand prizes will be awarded, giant Easter Baskets!

Your children will have so much fun looking for all the eggs and competing for the prize.
Eggstravaganza- Sat April 7 Kincaid Chalet Bounce into spring! Watch out for bouncing bunnies as you join in on some spring-themed arts and crafts, outdoor games, and an egg hunt! Egg Hunt Schedule: 1^st Hunt: 3-5 yrs, 1:30p, 2^nd Hunt: 3-5 yrs, 2:30p, 3^rd Hunt: 6-12 yrs, 3:30p For ages 3-12 yrs. Space in egg hunts is limited. Pre-registration strongly recommended. Min 10/Max 50 per hunt. To pre-register, call 343-4130.

Easter Bunny- Dimond Mall through April 7th  M-Th (Apr 2-5): 10a-8p; F-Sat (Apr 6-7): 10a-8:30p.  Mall CLOSED on Easter Sunday (April 8).

Easter Egg Hunt- April 7th Dimond Mall 12 & 4pm Must preregister children, follow link to register.

The Bunny Trail- through April 7th Dimond Mall  M-F: 3p-9p; Sat: 1p-9p  located down the Old Navy hallway & full of crafts for the kiddos.

Easter Bunny- 5th Avenue Mall 11a-8p

Eggciting Eggstravaganza- April 7th Alaska Museum of Natural History 10a-5p The Dinosaurs at the museum have been hiding their eggs in the strangest places. Can you help us find them? Hop through the Museum and participate in a Puffin Egg Roll, Dino Egg Hunt, Penguin Egg Walk and more.$5 adult/ $3 child

Easter Egg Hunt- April 7th Sand Lake Baptist Church 11a-2p FREE Easter Egg Hunt with thousands of candy filled eggs and tons of prizes. Free hot dogs and cookies afterwards. Sponsers include H2Oasis, The Cage, Dimond Bowl, Jewel Lake Bowl, Carrs, Walmart, Dimond Ice Chalet, and Tastee Freez.

Easter Egg Hunt- April 6th, 7th, 8th The Learning Farm 3-5p Kids! Hunt for Easter Eggs around The Learning Farm! Lots of great prizes including a certificate for one hour of free horse riding given each day of this event!Make an Easter craft! Bottle feed our new baby calves! Feed the mini pigs! Feed the sheep! Feed the mini goats! Feed the chickens! Ride a horse or pony! Limited to 15 children per day. Join the fun! (Ages 3-10) $30 per child.

Easter Egg Hunt- April 7th Hillside Baptist Church 11a-1p
Easter Egg Hunt- April 8th Lions Park 1p (doors open at 12)  Children will do their hunting in separate age groups at various locations in and around the Lions Den and Lions Park, mile 1.5 Eagle River Rd. on the southwest corner of Eagle River Rd./Eagle River Loop (across the street from Wal Mart). Call 694-9123

Easter Sunrise Service & Egg Hunt- April 8th Alyeska Resort 6:45a- 3:30p Join us on Easter Sunday for a sunrise service at the top of the Tram. Tram upload begins at 6:45 - 7:30 am. The Tram ride to the service is free. The Sunrise Service at Glacier Express will be from 7:30 - 8:30 am. Download the Tram from 8:30 - 9:30 am. The Easter egg hunt will start at 9:15 am. Meet at the Pond Courtyard outside the Tramway Cafe. Easter Brunch at the Pond Cafe, seatings at 8 am, 10 am, noon, 2 pm.

Easter at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center- April 8th AWCC 11a Join us at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center for our annual Easter festivities! Activities include story time, puppet show, live animal presentation, crafts, and an egg hunt for the kids and the bears! (not together, of course...) Regular admission rates apply, but the event is free.
Mat-Su Area

Community Easter Egg Hunt on Ice- April 7th Brett Memorial Ice Arena 3:45-4:45p Join us for a community Easter Egg hunt on the rink! All kids 2-12 are invited to participate at all skill levels! PRIZES will be awarded at each level/age group! *TOYS*EASTER BASKETS*GIFTCARDS* Cost is $5.00 and includes skate rentals.

Easter Egg Hunt- April 7th First Baptist Church of Wasilla 10a

Fairbanks

Community Easter Egg Hunt- April 7th Santaland RV Park 10-11a

Easter Egg Hunt- April 8th St Matthews Episcopal Church 2p

Kenai

Spring Carnival- April 4th Peninsula Grace Brethren Church 6:30-8p Games, crafts, refreshments, and puppet show! FREE family fun!

Soldotna Easter Egg Hunt- April 7th Soldotna Elementary School 11a A family-friendly event - Traditional Easter Egg Hunt and Pictures with the Easter Bunny. FREE

Egg-stravaganza- April 7th Stanley Ford 11a-2p Easter egg hunt for kids 10 and younger. Cake walk, face painting, bunny petting zoo, the Easter Bunny (bring your camera), and more!


 Hope you all have a great Easter with your loved ones!