They are the familiar voice you hear on the radio each morning, the behind-the-scenes of TV networks, or the predictor of the weekend weather. These women are moms, just like you. Atlanta Parent asked them how they balance powerful careers in Atlanta's media, and when the makeup comes off, how they handle being mom. Andrea BibbsDirector of Ad Sales Integration, HLN/HLNtv.com Andrea Bibbs has worked for Turner Broadcasting System for over 17 years, starting there as an intern, and now as director of Ad Sales Integration at HLN. Her own mom shared this advice: To take care of myself and not feel guilty about it. Fill up your power source first. After becoming a first-time mom, she was surprised she could juggle everything. Before I was a mom, I was wondering how I would sleep and eat and keep a child alive. An invisible cape comes on and it allows you to survive off a few hours of sleep or no sleep. Bibbs set a goal after breastfeeding. I started working out again. I have a goal of running ten 5k races, and I'm now at seven. I'm also training for a triathlon. She spends her free time with her kids attending museum openings, to see her husband's work or other artists', and competing in races. Cara KneerHost, Atlanta & Company Talk Show (NBC) After hosting the daily talk show, Cara Kneer switches gears to be with her sons. She says the best advice anyone gave her about being a mom is to love your child for who they are, not who you want them to be. She says that working makes her a better mom. I've lived both, working and not working, and I can honestly say it is hard for me to stay home, she says. I realize it makes me a better mom if I have both. She spends her free time with her boys at Fernbank Museum of Natural History and at local splash pads and playgrounds. Katie BeasleyHost, Good Day Atlanta (FOX) After work, Katie Beasley loves coming home, taking the makeup off and playing with her daughter. With her friends, she created an email chain of advice and best products to share. We have a baby registry list email and I continue to add things I can't live without, or would do differently. Things like getting them in their crib instead of the bed or products that were a waste of money. She follows the advice she was given when she first had Ava: Sleep when the baby sleeps. We took a lot of naps together during my three months of maternity leave. In her free time, Beasley frequents the Children's Museum of Atlanta and local malls with her daughter. Jenn HobbyRadio personality, Star 94.1 Jenn Hobby says the best advice she received about being a new mom is Do something brave every day. It can be just getting out of bed and walking around, it's different for every mom. Her daughter Reese is one year with a clean report after a battle with pediatric cancer, which Hobby says changed everything. You realize the things you worry about are very small compared to being healthy and happy. She balances mom and work life with help from her husband. I have an awesome partnership with my husband Grant, and we share the responsibility of parenting. Pick the right partner who will be in it with you 100 percent. Hobby and her girls spend their free time at Braves games and visiting Marietta Square. Katie WallsMeteorologist, WSB-TV (ABC) Katie Walls is a relatively new mom. She went into labor soon after telling Atlantans about the weather on Channel 2 Action News Nightbeat. She was told by her friend Julie, You will make mistakes, but don't beat yourself up for it. She survives the work and mom balance by making sure to prepare the night before. It is a constant juggling act with a lot of forethought the night before for the following day, making sure everything is ready for him. Walls spends her free time walking with her son around the neighborhood, which she says has helped her lose baby weight. Products: Favorites and Throw-Aways from the MomsCara Kneer: Big sleep swaddlers like the Moms on Call Swaddle blankets they are the key to getting baby to sleep. Birp cloths that also stretch over the car seat are the best. I always buy the Milk Snob brand for my friends who are new moms. They are stretchy, washable and come in fun colors. Your baby needs about five pairs of zip pajamas half of the clothes people give you, you don't use. All of the clothes are cute, but not practical. I think my boys spent the first 6 months in onesies. Jenn Hobby: Gro-eggs are great, they test the temperature of your baby's room by light changes. From red, orange to blue depending if it's too hot or too cold. I didn't have to check the thermostat, and we still use these in the girls' rooms. Also the Medela Breast Pump, great to balance pumping with work. Lauren didn't like the BabyBjorn, but Reese did. I was never good at those wrapping carrier things, I would just end up tangled up in it! Katie Walls: The Beco Carrier was the best the first three months because he didn't want to be put down. His play mat and Sophie the Giraffe. A funny thing I received, and didn't think I would use, but do, is the Wee Block it's very useful for a baby boy. I also love OxiClean for getting stains out. The snot sucker was a shocker to receive, and I haven't used it yet, but probably will eventually when the time comes. Katie Beasley: The sound machine is very handy, especially with my hours. Blackout curtains, really soft blankets and pacifiers comfort things. The wiper warmer went right back to the store. Andrea Bibbs: Munchkin Arm & Hammer Disposable Changing Pads, I use this for everything, bottom of car seat and on top of changing areas. I give this to all of my new-mom friends. Doc-A-Tot was the best thing when we had my son, we didn't feel afraid to have him in the bed, and it was a great tool to transition him to the crib. Clothes, a lot of clothes. Before you know it, the really cute things are too small. Pacifiers, my kids didn't like them at all. Cloth bibs, I love the plastic ones, less laundry to do. Teresa Farkas The post Advice from Atlanta Media Moms appeared first on Atlanta Parent Magazine.
0 Comments
An indoor playground of epic proportions where education is disguised as play, the Children's Museum of Atlanta is a special place for kids. Since the addition of the mezzanine on the second floor, the museum has created even more space for discovery and fun. There are six permanent exhibits and many revolving exhibits and special programs. Permanent Areas at Children's Museum of AtlantaA kid-size Waffle House, grocery store, delivery truck, crane system, world tunnel, dress-up stage, tree house and toddler play area are a few of the spots to be found in the museum every time you visit. Kids can milk a cow and build a city, all in the same day. They can paint the wall, then watch a show. Then, they can prance up the keyboard staircase and take part in a science experiment or have a snack. Feature Exhibits at Children's Museum of AtlantaFeature exhibits run for multiple months at a time, and there is amusement to be found every day of the exhibit. The Children's Museum will have Sid the Science Kid: The Super-Duper Exhibit coming up. Kids will be able to sing, dance, laugh, paint, build, and experiment with Sid-themed daily programming. Check our calendar for temporary feature exhibits at the Children's Museum of Atlanta. Special Programming at Children's Museum of AtlantaEvery month, the museum has events that may last for a day or several. The museum hostsTinyCON in conjunction with Dragon Con each year, which takes place each Labor Day weekend in Atlanta. For instance, this month children can journey Around the World with Words, with music, dance and stories designed to introduce them to cultures across all seven continents. Check our calendar for special programming at the Children's Museum of Atlanta. Just for Toddlers atChildren's Museum of AtlantaFor those with children ages 2-5, trying to keep them amused can be a challenge. And sometimes you need something for them while the older kids are at school. The Children's Museum has a solution-a play area specifically designed for our youngest friends with an enclosing fence. They can romp, and you might even be able to rest a moment on some of the comfortable seating. On Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, you can also find programs tailored to tiny hands. Snack Area at Children's Museum of AtlantaBefore the renovations, the snack area was a small room on the main floor with a couple of tables. Now, it is a huge space on the mezzanine level with lots of tables and plenty of snack machines. If you want to dine outside, there are additional tables to be found. You can leave the museum to eat at a local restaurant, as re-entry is allowed. Or, you can pack a picnic to eat on-site or down the street at Olympic Centennial Park. Moon Sand at Children's Museum of AtlantaHands down, this permanent exhibit is my family's favorite. My daughter, my husband, and I can gather at one of the two large troughs and lose ourselves to this stuff that's not quite sand and not quite play dough. With ample molds and tools supplied, children and adults alike spend hours creating and destroying, enjoying the squish between fingers. I dare you to sit down and try not to play in it. Build and destroy with relish! Shelly Gable The post 6 Things to Love About Children's Museum of Atlanta appeared first on Atlanta Parent Magazine. They are the familiar voice you hear on the radio each morning, the behind-the-scenes of TV networks, or the predictor of the weekend weather. These women are moms, just like you. Atlanta Parent asked them how they balance powerful careers in Atlanta's media, and when the makeup comes off, how they handle being mom. Cara KneerHost, Atlanta & Company Talk Show (NBC) After hosting the daily talk show, Cara Kneer switches gears to be with her sons. She says the best advice anyone gave her about being a mom is to love your child for who they are, not who you want them to be. She says that working makes her a better mom. I've lived both, working and not working, and I can honestly say it is hard for me to stay home, she says. I realize it makes me a better mom if I have both. She spends her free time with her boys at Fernbank Museum of Natural History and at local splash pads and playgrounds. Andrea BibbsDirector of Ad Sales Integration, HLN/HLNtv.com Andrea Bibbs has worked for Turner Broadcasting System for over 17 years, starting there as an intern, and now as director of Ad Sales Integration at HLN. Her own mom shared this advice: To take care of myself and not feel guilty about it. Fill up your power source first. After becoming a first-time mom, she was surprised she could juggle everything. Before I was a mom, I was wondering how I would sleep and eat and keep a child alive. An invisible cape comes on and it allows you to survive off a few hours of sleep or no sleep. Bibbs set a goal after breastfeeding. I started working out again. I have a goal of running ten 5k races, and I'm now at seven. I'm also training for a triathlon. She spends her free time with her kids attending museum openings, to see her husband's work or other artists', and competing in races. Katie BeasleyHost, Good Day Atlanta (FOX) After work, Katie Beasley loves coming home, taking the makeup off and playing with her daughter. With her friends, she created an email chain of advice and best products to share. We have a baby registry list email and I continue to add things I can't live without, or would do differently. Things like getting them in their crib instead of the bed or products that were a waste of money. She follows the advice she was given when she first had Ava: Sleep when the baby sleeps. We took a lot of naps together during my three months of maternity leave. In her free time, Beasley frequents the Children's Museum of Atlanta and local malls with her daughter. Jenn HobbyRadio personality, Star 94.1 Jenn Hobby says the best advice she received about being a new mom is Do something brave every day. It can be just getting out of bed and walking around, it's different for every mom. Her daughter Reese is one year with a clean report after a battle with pediatric cancer, which Hobby says changed everything. You realize the things you worry about are very small compared to being healthy and happy. She balances mom and work life with help from her husband. I have an awesome partnership with my husband Grant, and we share the responsibility of parenting. Pick the right partner who will be in it with you 100 percent. Hobby and her girls spend their free time at Braves games and visiting Marietta Square. Katie WallsMeteorologist, WSB-TV (ABC) Katie Walls is a relatively new mom. She went into labor soon after telling Atlantans about the weather on Channel 2 Action News Nightbeat. She was told by her friend Julie, You will make mistakes, but don't beat yourself up for it. She survives the work and mom balance by making sure to prepare the night before. It is a constant juggling act with a lot of forethought the night before for the following day, making sure everything is ready for him. Walls spends her free time walking with her son around the neighborhood, which she says has helped her lose baby weight. Products: Favorites and Throw-Aways from the MomsCara Kneer: Big sleep swaddlers like the Moms on Call Swaddle blankets they are the key to getting baby to sleep. Birp cloths that also stretch over the car seat are the best. I always buy the Milk Snob brand for my friends who are new moms. They are stretchy, washable and come in fun colors. Your baby needs about five pairs of zip pajamas half of the clothes people give you, you don't use. All of the clothes are cute, but not practical. I think my boys spent the first 6 months in onesies. Jenn Hobby: Gro-eggs are great, they test the temperature of your baby's room by light changes. From red, orange to blue depending if it's too hot or too cold. I didn't have to check the thermostat, and we still use these in the girls' rooms. Also the Medela Breast Pump, great to balance pumping with work. Lauren didn't like the BabyBjorn, but Reese did. I was never good at those wrapping carrier things, I would just end up tangled up in it! Katie Walls: The Beco Carrier was the best the first three months because he didn't want to be put down. His play mat and Sophie the Giraffe. A funny thing I received, and didn't think I would use, but do, is the Wee Block it's very useful for a baby boy. I also love OxiClean for getting stains out. The snot sucker was a shocker to receive, and I haven't used it yet, but probably will eventually when the time comes. Katie Beasley: The sound machine is very handy, especially with my hours. Blackout curtains, really soft blankets and pacifiers comfort things. The wiper warmer went right back to the store. Andrea Bibbs: Munchkin Arm & Hammer Disposable Changing Pads, I use this for everything, bottom of car seat and on top of changing areas. I give this to all of my new-mom friends. Doc-A-Tot was the best thing when we had my son, we didn't feel afraid to have him in the bed, and it was a great tool to transition him to the crib. Clothes, a lot of clothes. Before you know it, the really cute things are too small. Pacifiers, my kids didn't like them at all. Cloth bibs, I love the plastic ones, less laundry to do. Teresa Farkas The post Advice from Atlanta Media Moms appeared first on Atlanta Parent Magazine. Putt putt. Miniature golf. Mini golf, if you want to be hip. Whatever you want to call it, it's a family-friendly, grand time. Around Atlanta, there are a variety of mini golf courses, some with unique twists and cool features. Skyline ParkPerched atopPonce City Market, this miniature amusement park brings a level of fun to make all other rooftops jealous. Ride the rides, have some pretzels and enjoy an adult beverage. In addition to the putt-putt course, Skyline also has carnival-type games, a Heegee Tower and Skyline Slide. Ages 12 and older, $10; Ages 12 and younger, $7. 675 Ponce De Leon Ave., Atlanta. Glow GalaxyOpen Play is for children ages 2-12, and drop off is available during Open Play for children ages 4-12. There is no charge for adults coming with their children during Open Play. In addition to the miniature golf course, Glow Galaxy is an indoor inflatables playground. Best of all, it is all glow in the dark! Open Play hours change weekly, call 770-368-3008 to find out when Glow Galaxy will be open. Open Play, $8; drop off, $12.6527-D Jimmy Carter Blvd., Norcross. The Fringe at Area 51See a movie, then play some golf. Or reverse it. The Fringe sits right outside Aurora Cineplex, and you can have active time and rest time in one place. Play one course or both (additional cost for both courses is (adults, $10.50; ages 4-12, $7.50). Have four or more people coming? Get a Family 4 Pack for $5 per person for one course or $7.50 per person for both courses. (Maximum three adults and must have at least four people in party). Ages 4-12, $5; adults, $7.5100 Commerce Pkwy., Roswell. Fun Junction U.S.A.With three putt-putt courses, not to mention a nice selection of rides both indoor and out, families will have a blast at Fun Junction U.S.A. Because admission is free, parents can take children to play without having to pay for themselves. Rides and games are available at per-play costs, or there are also armbands available for purchase. The park is open limited hours, so check the website.Free admission; games and rides, extra. 1675 Hwy. 85 N, Fayetteville. Pirates' CoveArrr, mateys! Come aboard, and play ye some golf at this fine establishment. Best of all, get half-off golf tickets between 4 and 6 p.m. on Mondays-Thursdays at the newly-renovated family fun zone. Go for the 27-Hole Adventure for an extra good time (additional cost applies). Adults, $8; ages 4-12, $7; ages 3 and younger, free. 3380 Venture Pkwy., Duluth. Monster Mini GolfLittle monsters and big monsters will love playing around this glowing, spooky course. Indoor green, glow-in-the-dark, custom-made creatures and even its own internal radio station. What else could a family need? Well, how about an arcade as well? You'll find it at Monster Mini Golf. Adults, $8.50; children, $7.50.2505 Chastain Meadows Pkwy., Marietta. Mountasia MariettaYou can purchase a ticket just for the mini golf, or you can buy combo passes to play in the arcade and ride attractions at this popular stop in Marietta. In addition to putt putt, kids can drive go karts and visit the huge game room-a plus if the rain decides to hang out with you. $8; ages 4 and younger, free. 175 Barrett Pkwy., Marietta. Shelly Gable The post Best Putt-Putt Golf Courses for Kids Around Atlanta appeared first on Atlanta Parent Magazine. There is so much to love aboutLEGOLAND Discovery Center in Atlanta. Families can spend hours building LEGO creations, riding on fun rides and checking out what the masters can produce out of tiny, plastic bricks. Large-Scale ModelsKids will love seeing the huge builds made entirely out of LEGOs, and maybe even get inspired to build their own. Giant buildings, cars, LEGO people and more are easy to spot while walking from the different themed areas. A favorite is MINILAND, a replica of the city with moving cars and trains, made from nearly 1.5 million LEGO bricks. LEGO Rides and ExhibitsSeveral themed areas bring you back to medieval times or into space. Kingdom Quest lets you experience a virtual LEGO worldriders hop aboard the chariot and rescue a princess. In the new Space Mission, kids can build a spaceship, explore alien LEGO worlds and watch a LEGO rocket blast off. Merlin's Apprentice ride and Pirate Adventure Island are also fun stops. Hands-On LEGO BuildsThere are so many opportunities to dig your hands into some LEGOs, from build-and-race cars down large ramps to bins full of colorful pieces. The Earthquake tables allow kids to construct buildings out of LEGOs and see how they withstand against a natural disaster. The DUPLO village is great for ages 2-5, with larger bricks to hold. LEGO 4D CinemaLEGO movies are a lot more fun when shown in a 4D theatre. Kids will love seeing the characters so close to them, and feeling the wind, rain and snow effects. Movies alternate between Spellbreaker, CHIMA, Clutchpowers, LEGO NEXO Knights 4D: The Book of Creativity and The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure. Seasonal EventsThroughout the year, LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta hosts special events fun for the entire family. LEGO movie days, such as Ninjago or Star Wars, include character meet-and-greets, group theme builds and more. If kids dress and talk like a pirate on Talk Like a Pirate Day, they gain free entry. Brick-or-Treat Halloween, Breakfast with Santa and Noon Year's Eve are also fun events to look out for this year. Check our events calendar for things happening at LEGOLAND. The Details LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta The post 5 Things to Love About LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta appeared first on Atlanta Parent Magazine. If the name Serenbe makes you think of the word serenity, you're getting the right idea! This rural planned community located south of the Atlanta airport in Chattahoochee Hills has a chill vibe, even with the kids. There's no hustle or bustle, just green spaces and places to experience culture, farm-to-table eats, and nature. Here are some top recommendations for Serenbe family activities for your next visit. Serenbe PlayhouseSeeing a play performed on an outdoor stage with the forest landscape as the set is a thrilling experience. Our trips to Serenbe have often been planned around the schedule of family performances at Serenbe Playhouse. Here, the productions are top notch, and actors in costume may greet you on your way to your seats! Tip: they'll also happily pose for photos with starstruck young audience members. Horseback RidingGo on a one-hour horseback trail ride or arrange for a picnic ride with lunch included! The gentle horses and experienced guides of Serenbe Trailriding can take your family on a horseback adventure to explore the trails, forest and fields of Serenbe. Even new riders can enjoy the laid back pace of these adventures. Farm Tours and Farmer's MarketShop the Saturday Farmer's Market for fresh produce and handmade art, and enjoy chef demos, live music and kids' activities. Or, book a brief farm tour (every Saturday at 1:30 p.m.) to see what's growing at the certified-organic farm and learn how food makes its way to our tables. Adult tickets are $10, but children 10 and younger tour for free. Camp SerenbeCamp Serenbe offers a nature-based day camp with outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, and trail hiking for kids ages 3-12. Kids can also participate in ropes courses, scavenger hunts, arts, crafts, and drama. Check the calendar for spring and summer camp dates. Or, book a Family Getaway package to stay overnight at the Inn and spend the day exploring while the kids are completely entertained. Blue Eyed DaisyGrab a nibble at the Blue Eyed Daisy, the area's casual eating and meeting spot. The farm-to-table restaurant uses locally grown ingredients for breakfast and lunch, and dinner on select days. You can eat healthy here, but don't miss out on sweet treats, especially the cupcakes, which were winners on Cupcake Wars! Dalia Faupel The post 5 Things to Love About Serenbe appeared first on Atlanta Parent Magazine. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
January 2019
Categories |