Macaroni Kid
Rockville - Gaithersburg
Macaroni Kid   Editions

Hellloooo!


Happy almost St. Patrick's Day!!  I'm back from CA (as of LATE last night) and this week has already been nuts! I had a job interview today (which I am cautiously optimistic about!), my husband got some interesting news at work...and things are moving quickly!  I hope to be able to share more with all of you over the next few weeks, but don't want to jinx anything right now.

We're super excited to be heading to the Ringling Bros. Circus tomorrow night (ok...it ...


Irish Soda Bread


with a twist!

This is an easy Irish Soda Bread recipe that was a hit with the whole family!  This bread is great served warm with butter, toasted or even made into french toast!  

Ingredients:
3 3/4 cups flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter - melted
1 cup buttermilk
1 egg
1 cup Sun-Maid Fruit Bits
1 teaspoon caraway seeds
1 tablespoon butter - melted

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  
2. In a large bowl, mix together ...


Monthly Subscription Boxes- My New Obsession


And a fantastic way to try lots of products before you commit!

I recently discovered a new type of service where you get a box delivered to you either monthly or quarterly filled with all types of goodies depending on the company.  Some companies focus on beauty products, others focus on baby products, some focus on things women or men need (or need to know about), some focus on food, the list is truly endless.  In researching for about a week, I found about fifty different companies that provide a subscription service with many more companies with plans to launch soon.

I ...


St. Patty's Rainbow Treasure Treats


I love any reason to craft with my Macaroni Kid.  A holiday, a friend's birthday, or just because.  But I don't always have my act together and am able to go all out for special occasions like I may want to.  And with St Patrick's Day basically here, I needed a simple and budget friendly idea that she and I could do together quickly so that we could still have time to deliver our goodies to friends and family. 

These would be perfect to make and take ...


"DOC MCSTUFFINS," AN ANIMATED SERIES FOR KIDS 2-7!


PREMIERING FRIDAY, MARCH 23 ON DISNEY JUNIOR - And Our Party Review!

Watch the Doc McStuffins the premiere of Disney Junior's "Doc McStuffins," an animated series that models good health, hygiene, compassion and nurturing for kids age 2-7. Each episode contains heartwarming stories, features an original song, and stars a little girl named Doc who can talk to the stuffed animal and toy world -- and they talk to her too, especially when they need her help repairing a stitch or bandaging a boo-boo. Along the way, Doc and her friends Stuffy, Lambie, Hallie and Chilly impart helpful tips about self care ...


60 lbs down! My Medifast Weight Loss Journey


And a new pic!

I'm back from vacation and will be headed for my Medifast check-in this weekend!  I kept to all the principles I have learned through Medifast while in CA and am thrilled to say my pants are no more snug then when I left!  I am still about 20lbs from my goal weight...but I KNOW I will get there soon!

For those just joining us, I have been going to the Medifast Center in the Kentlands since late August and am on my way to becoming a much smaller ...


This Week's Picks:


March 18th through March 20th

Sunday, March 18 - Disney Junior's Doc McStuffins Preview Party!

Disney Junior is introducing several new shows and we are so thrilled we've been selected to host a Doc McStuffins preview party!!  We have some snacks, get to watch a full episode of the show before it airs for the general public, play some games and make some new friends!
Where: Lani's House - You will need to rsvp to get the address.
When: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Who: Everyone welcome, though the show is best suited for kids ages 2-8.
How: You need to rsvp to [email protected] with subject line Doc McStuffins and let me know how many kids (up to 4) you will be bringing and what their ages are.  Please note that this event has limited availability so please do not rsvp if you foresee not being able to make it.
Cost: FREE!

Tuesday, March 20 - Mommy & Me and Daddies Too!

Mommy & Me and Daddies Too! meets for a special morning out with active learning and creative play at all your favorite stores!  There are lunch specials, story time, arts & crafts, sing-a-longs, prizes, and a whole lot more!
Where: Rockville Library, First Floor at Rockville Town Square
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Every 3rd Tuesday of the month)
Who: Everyone welcome!
How: You can just show up, or register online to be added to their newsletter for updates.
Cost: FREE!
For more info: Visit the website.

This Week's Calendar:


March 15th through March 20th

Thursday, March 15 - Preschool Songs & Stories

Back by popular demand, the Arts Barn will once again host an exciting and enriching cultural arts program for children. Preschool Songs and Stories gives three to five year olds and their parents or guardians the opportunity to explore the arts through singing, dancing and active listening to story books.
Where: The Arts Barn, Gaithersburg’s premiere cultural arts facility, is located at 311 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg.
When: 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM (1st and 3rd Thursdays through June 2012)
Who: Preschool aged
How: Just show up!  Pay at the door.
Cost: $3 per child.  Adults are free.
For more info: For more information call 301-258-6394 or visit the website.

Thursday, March 15 - Busy Beavers

Explore these amazing builders through fun activities.  We'll take a walk to find out how and why beavers are always so busy!
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Who: Ages 3-6.
How: Registration: 301-924-4141 or click here
Cost: $5

Friday, March 16 - Cabin John Mall Kids Day

A great new children's entertainer at each event!  Plus great disounts throughout Cabin John Mall.
Where: Located in the Atrium of Cabin John Mall, Potomac, MD
When: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM (1st & 3rd Friday each month)
Who: Everyone welcome
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free!
For more info: All activities subject to change without notice. When Montgomery County Public Schools are closed due to inclement weather, Cabin John Kids activities will be canceled.

Saturday, March 17 - Saturday Morning at The National Theatre

  • 3/17: Treasure Quest: Pirate Comedy and Magic
  • 3/24: Banjos and Juggling and Art- Oh My!
  • 3/31: Nana Malaya: A Song, A Story, A Dance
Where: The National Theatre in Washington, DC
When: 9:30 AM (Second show at 11am)
Who: All families welcome
How: Seating is limited!! Tickets are Required, and are distributed without charge one half-hour prior to performance, on a first-come first-served basis, one ticket only, to each person standing in line. Children must be accompanied by an adult who remains present for the entire performance.
Cost: FREE!
For more info: Saturday Morning at the National has been sponsored exclusively since its inception by
Marriott International, Inc. and The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation, Inc. Visit the website.

Saturday, March 17 - 12th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade

Join Grand Marshals Cathy Panton King, singer, songwriter and Robert Carson, MIX 107.3 radio personality, Celtic Dancers, Bagpipe Bands, Equestrian Units, Clowns and MORE! Immediately following the parade, please join us on the Lakefront Plaza for Celtic music, Free Family Activities, Face Painting and more!
Where: The 12th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade will be held at Washingtonian Center's Grand Corner Avenue.
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Everyone welcome!
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free!  (Some activities may charge a small fee)

Monday, March 19 - Special Education: Parents as Advocates and the Family-School Partnerships (part 3 of 4)

Learn about the special education process and how to advocate for your child. Topics include the Individualized Education Act, Individualized Education Program (IEP), resolving issues, community resources and support. Learn, network, and share tips with other parents. This is the first of a series of four Parent E.A.S.E. workshops facilitated by the Montgomery County Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health.
Where: Wheaton HS, 12601 Dalewood Dr., Silver Spring, 20906
When: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM (Part 4: 3/26)
Who: All parents welcome
How: Register online or call 301-517-5940
Cost: Free! Childcare services also provided for free!

Monday, March 19 - Meet The ACCUPLACER

During this session, parents will hear about the ACCUPLACER, a test used by colleges to determine if students are college ready. Parents will also learn how students who are college ready can earn college credit prior to leaving high school, and save thousands of dollars.
Where: Quince Orchard HS, 15800 Quince Orchard Rd., Gaithersburg 20878
When: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Who: All parents welcome - but aimed at those with children in high school.
How: Register online or call 301-517-5940
Cost: Free!  Child care services provided.

Tuesday, March 20 - Kite Flying Time!

Take advantage of the March winds! Make and decorate your own kite to fly over the windswept fields at the Agricultural Farm Park.
Where: Agricultural Farm Park (18400 Muncaster Road, Derwood 20855). Meet at the green and white farm house atop the hill.
When: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Who: Ages 2+
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.
Cost: $8 (Only register children)

Plan Ahead:


March 21st through April 1st

Wednesday, March 21 - Tyke Hike

Come explore the bustling world around the Nature Center. Take a nature mini-hike, and make a craft.
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM (Also on 4/11 & 5/16)
Who: Ages 2-3.
How: Register online
Cost: $5

Wednesday, March 21 - Story Time with Ms. Jazmine

Join us for exciting stories and songs with Ms. Jazmine!
Where: White Flint Mall, North Bethesda, MD
When: 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM (1st and 3rd Wednesdays each month)
Who: Ages 1-6.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free!

Wednesday, March 21 - Homeschool Days: Birds and Bernoulli

These courses are designed especially for homeschoolers, to give them the opportunity to explore Montgomery County's natural and cultural past though hikes, games, and field experiences.  Through experiments and observation of Meadowside's resident raptors, learn how the shape of a bird's wing enables it to fly, glide and dive.
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: Ages 7-10.
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.
Cost: $5

Thursday, March 22 - Nature Tots: Amphibians

Spend time with your child discovering the wonders of nature. A naturalist will help you explore a new nature topic through nature play, crafts, stories and hikes. Dress for the weather. Adult participation required
Where: Croydon Creek Nature Center, Rockville, MD
When: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: Ages 2-5.
How: To register, call 240-314-8770.
Cost: Residents $6, non-residents $7.

Thursday, March 22 - Can We Talk? Speaking Up for Your Children to Help them Succeed (English and Spanish)

Developed for parents by the MCPS Parent Advisory Council, this workshop offers information on how to talk effectively with teachers and principals and advocate for your children. Separate workshops will be presented in English and Spanish.
Where: A. Mario Loiederman MS, 12701 Goodhill Rd., Silver Spring 20906
When: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Who: All parents welcome.
How: Register online or call 301-517-5940
Cost: Free!  Child care services provided.

Thursday, March 22 - Meadowside Movies by the Fire: Caterpillar and Polliwog

Spend an evening around Meadowside's campfire ring to enjoy a tasty treat and a short film. We'll supply marshmallows and graham crackers, you bring your chocolate of choice, and we'll make s'mores!
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Who: Ages 3+
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.
Cost: $3 (Please register and pay for all participants.)

Friday, March 23 - Groovy Nate

Come see Groovy Nate in his original family fun show.
Where: White Flint Mall, Centre Court
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Ages 1-6. 
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free

Saturday, March 24 - Owls, Hawks & Eagle Lunchtime and Talk

Observe Meadowside's hawk, owl, vulture, and bald eagle during their feeding time and ask questions! Speak with a Naturalist about birds of prey, and learn some of the stories about the raptors on exhibit. These talks begin at the Raptor Walkway behind the Nature Center
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM (Also on 4/3, 4/4, 4/5, and 5/19.)
Who: Ages 2+.
How: No registration required
Cost: Free!

Saturday, March 24 - Family Geocaching Adventure on the Farm

Modern-day treasure hunting happens right here in our parks! Geocaches are hidden containers that you track using GPS units. Learn how to use a GPS unit and spend the day on a geocaching adventure around the Agricultural History Farm Park. We'll be hiking, so long pants and sturdy shoes are recommended. If you don't have a GPS unit, one will be provided.
Where: Agricultural History Farm Park 18400 Muncaster Rd. Derwood, MD 20855
When: 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Who: Ages 8+
How: Please register and pay for all participants.  To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.
Cost: $10

Saturday, March 24 - Signs of Spring Night Hike and Campfire

Enjoy a hike into the forest at dusk to look and listen for signs of spring. After the hike, we'll gather around the campfire to enjoy a campfire treat.
Where: Croydon Creek Nature Center, 852 Avery Road, Rockville, MD 
When: 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Who: All ages
How: To register, call 240-314-8771
Cost: $4 for residents, $5 for non-residents
For more info: Visit the website

Sunday, April 1 - Bunny Tea at Kentlands Mansion

Hop on over to Kentlands Mansion’s newest event, the Bunny Tea. Little ones, along with a parent, are invited to bring their favorite stuffed bunny to an afternoon of tea, sandwiches, fruits, scones, and desserts in the elegant surroundings of this beautiful, century-old estate.  Earl Grey and fruit teas will be served, and lemonade will be available upon request.  A photo opportunity will be available with a special guest. 
Where: Kentlands Mansion is located 320 Kent Square Road in Gaithersburg.
When: 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Who: Everyone welome
How: Reservations are required, and may be made with cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover Card.  For reservations please call 301-258-6425.
Cost: Admission is $20 per person for adults and $15 for children ages 12 and under.

My Macaroni


Check out what I consider to be one of the best features of Macaroni Kid...

My Macaroni, as a subscriber you have the ability to check off events that interest you and then will be able to generate a weekly calendar/schedule of events and activities that you don't want to miss out on.  You can print it and hang it on your fridge or toss it in your purse.  It is a great way to keep track of all the events you do not want to miss, or to share with friends, grandparents or childcare providers so you can all plan a playdate ...


Local Children's Theater Productions


Under construction...new shows will be added soon!

Kids Eat Free or For Less!


(Some deals are for discounted kids meals, or activity nights at local restaurants)

Be sure to call and confirm before heading to the restaurant - offers can change at any time!!  Most of these deals are not valid with any other promotion or discount.

Mondays:

  • Mama Lucia's Pasta Night - Order one pasta entree regular price and get a second for $4 Dine In or Carryout 5-10pm (Rockville, Bethesda, Olney, Frederick & Silver Spring locations)
  • Ambrosia Grill - Buy 2 entrees and get 1 kids meal free 5-9pm 
  • Eggspectations - 1 free kids meal with purchase of adult entree (Silver Spring)The Stained Glass Pub (Silver Spring ...

Thanks to some of our fabulous Site Sponsors!


SPONSORS:

  


Weekly Open Gyms & Storytimes


A great, free or low cost way to keep your kids entertained!

Do you need to get the kids out of the house? Too hot, or cold, or rainy to go outside to play? Here is a list of local businesses that offer free or low cost weekly story times or open gyms.  I suggest arriving early as these events are very popular and fill up quickly.  If you find any of these need updating, please let me know right away at [email protected].  Also, since we're heading into summer, you may want to call and confirm these as several ...


Macaroni Kid Saves


Please share your favorites with us!

Special Promotion Codes:

*Mabel's Labels - save 5% using code "macaronikid5"

Daily Deals:

Mamapedia

Eversave

Socially Ideal

Groupon

Gazette Daily Deal

Living Social

Certifikid

Online Coupon Sites:

http://www.retailmenot.com

http://www.6pm.com

If you own a local business and would like to offer our readers a discount, please e-mail me at [email protected] with the details.  If you are a subscriber, please add your discount codes in the comments section.

*We try our best to make sure these codes are current, but cannot take responsibility since ...


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