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Rockville - Gaithersburg
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Welcome to the Last Week of our Holiday Gift Guide


New giveaways have been added

Let me start by shouting..."We did it!!!"  In our first six months, we now have over 1000 subscribers!!  Thank you all for sharing Macaroni Kid Rockville-Gaithersburg with all your friends and family.  For all our new subscribers, I wanted to say hello and let you know this is not a typical issue.  You will normally find crafts, recipes, and maybe a giveaway or two...not 30+.  I also wanted to let those of you with older kids know I have some events coming up in January for the older ...


Mini " Gingerbread Houses "


Graham crackers make a great mini-"gingerbread house"

When my son was in pre-kindergarten, his class made these great little "gingerbread houses" out of graham crackers.  If you have a box of graham crackers, icing ingredients and candy, you can have a whole group of kids make their own little holiday houses.  If you are doing this activity with young children, you will probably want to assemble the houses ahead of time with the royal icing.   

You will need:

Graham crackers

Royal Icing (mix or see recipe from allrecipes here)

Quart size freezer bags or pastry bags

Assorted ...


Winter Lights, Displays and Other Attractions


(these are not listed in the events listing)

The National Zoo will hold its biggest and brightest event ever - ZooLights. ZooLights runs Friday to Sunday, December 3 to 12, 2010 and then nightly December 17, 2010 to January 2, 2011, except 12/24, 12/25 & 12/31. The event runs 6 to 8:30pm.  The Zoo will shine with thousands of environmentally friendly lights and animated exhibits. These larger-than-life displays will feature many of the Zoo'­s most popular animals, all constructed of LED lights that use about 90 percent less energy than traditional incandescent light bulbs. There ...

A Holiday Letter to my friends & family


About Me and Autism

Hi Everyone,
I know that we will be visiting each other soon and I thought this would be a helpful note for you to have.

A lot of you know that I sometimes do things differently, and it can really make my sisters mad at times too , but there are reasons for this.

My parents tell me I am on the Autistic Spectrum, although I am not sure exactly what that means, it may make seems to you. I don't learn the same way others do and I also ...

Reindeer Food


A fun craft (and snack!)

Let me just tell you, that old Santa needs to go on a diet. Mrs. Claus has let us know that those special hard working reindeer are feeling left out. Oh sure, Santa "claims" that he shares the cookies, but the reindeer have a different story.

Now you can help! Grab a few ingredients out of the cabinet and lets show the reindeer just how much we love them too! 

Dry oatmeal

Granulated sugar

Raisins, M & M's, dried fruit, etc.

Glitter (or go eco-friendly and skip the glitter)

Mix ...


Gifts & Giveaways for Infants Through Teens


  • Win a One Bunny Band DVD and plush toy from the Emmy Award-winning company Juno Baby!  The Juno Baby and Juno Jr. line are definitely favorites in our household.  Many of you have read my reviews of this adorable line and how it is fantastic for teaching little ones all about music.  Click here to enter!  ENDS 12/19
  • Win a free weekday party with The Great Zucchini, Washington's funniest and most magical preschool & kindergarten performer.  This giveaway can be used for a birthday party, or a performance at ...

Gifts & Giveaways for Moms & Dads & Teachers!


And gifts for the whole family!

  • Win a stunning Ruffled Glass Bowl from Willow House.  While visiting the website, be sure to check out the great deals in the outlet.  Click here to enter to win. ENDS 12/19
  • Win a Brocade Plush Throw from Private Quarters.  This super soft, black and white throw will go with any decor and keep you warm and cozy during those cold winter months ahead.  If you see any other items you would like to go ahead and order, receive an automatic 5% off your order by shopping through the ...

This Week's Picks:


Thursday, December 16 through Sunday, December 19 - Sesame Street Live: Elmo's Healthy Heros

Calling all super heroes! Super Grover needs your help – and it’s Elmo and the Fabulous Five to the rescue when this fantastic musical production zooms into Fairfax.  When Super Grover loses his superness, Sesame Street needs a hero! Never fear, Elmo and his team of Healthy Heroes are here. Teaching lessons of healthy habits through song and dance, Elmo, Abby Cadabby and your favorite Sesame Street friends will explore exercise, nutrition, sleep/energy and hygiene – all in a quest to put the “super” back in Super Grover. It’s Elmo’s Healthy Heroes to the rescue!

Where: Patriot Center, Fairfax, VA
When: 7:00 PM (12/16: 7pm; 12/17: 10:30am, 7pm; 12/18: 10:30am, 2pm; 12/19: 1pm, 4:30pm)
Who: All ages!
How: Tickets are available through all Ticketmaster outlets including the Patriot Center box office, online or via Phonecharge at 703-573-SEAT.
Cost: $15, $20 & $28. Limited number of $40 Gold Circle seats & $75 Sunny Seats are available. *Opening Night, all seats (excluding Gold Circle & Sunny Seats) are $15. 

For more info:

This Week's Calendar:


November 19th through December 19th

Friday, November 19 through Sunday, January 2 - Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Experience the timeless tale of Rudolph and friends- LIVE! The beloved stop-motion classic soars from the TV screen to the stage in this live-action world premiere. Featuring everyone's favorite characters: Hermey the Elf, Sam the Snowman, the Misfit Toys, the Abominable Snow Monster, Yukon Cornelius, Santa, and (of course) Rudolph! You won't want to miss this wonderful holiday tradition that speaks to the misfit in all of us.
Where: Adventure Theatre, Glen Echo
When: 11:00 AM (dates and times vary)
Who: All ages
How: Buy tickets online or by calling 301-634-2270
Cost: $15 per person

Wednesday, November 24 through Sunday, January 9 - Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells

It's holiday time in Room One and that means drama!  Tattletale May keeps picking on Junie B.,  and things get even worse when Junie B. draws May's name for Secret Santa.  She hatches a plan to give May a lump of coal, while getting an awesome Squeeze-A-Burp for herself.  Will Junie B. have a last-minute change of heart and show her true holiday spirit?  Just like its heroine, the show has laughs, verve and energy to spare!
Where: Imagination Stage 4908 Auburn Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814
When: 1:30 PM ((Multiple days & show times))
Who: Ages 4 and up
How: Buy tickets online
Cost: $10-$22
For more info: Visit the website or call (301)280-1660.  Field trip matinees are Tuesday at 11:00 AM and Wednesday-Friday at 10:30 AM. “Meet the Actors” after every weekend matinee, audience members can meet the actors in the lobby.

Thursday, December 2 through Wednesday, December 26 - The Nutcracker

A definite must-see on everyone’s holiday list, Septime Webre’s The Nutcracker returns to the Warner Theatre to offer a unique twist on this family favorite. Set in Washington, DC and filled with hints of Americana, this production features the heroic George Washington as the Nutcracker, King George III as the Rat King and cherry blossoms dancing on the Potomac. This is a Washington, DC tradition that cannot be missed!
Where: The Warner Theatre
When: 7:00 PM (show times vary by date)
Who: Everyone
How: Buy online, visit the Box Office or call 202-397-7328.
Cost: See website

Sunday, December 5 through Sunday, January 9 - ICE! Experience featuring "How the Grinch Stole Christmas"

Our signature winter holiday attraction will warm all hearts ...even a heart that’s two sizes too small. Bringing to life the 1957 Dr. Seuss holiday classic tale, ICE! features 10 colorful scenes straight out of the pages of the original storybook. Sculpted from 2 MILLION pounds of ice, the indoor walk-through attraction brilliantly showcases how the “Whoville-hating” Grinch learns the true meaning of Christmas. Visitors will take an adventure through the Grinch’s frozen world, see jaw-dropping ice sculptures and walk through larger-than-life scenes that re-create the original storyline. Little kids and big kids alike can even zip down two-story-tall slides made completely of ice!
Where: Gaylord National Hotel, 201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, MD 20745
When: 12:00 PM (hours vary daily)
Who: Everyone!
How: Purchase tickets online; by phone (301)965-4000.  Online advance ticket sales are available now.  Walk-up sales available during ICE!'s regular operating hours.
Cost:
  • Adults (ages 13+) $24-29*
  • Child (ages 4-12) $13-18*
  • Seniors (ages 62+) $18-23*
  • Military Adults (ages 13+) $21
  • Military Child (ages 4-12) $13 Kids ages 3 and under are free
  • Kids ages 3 and under are free
For more info: We encourage visitors to purchase tickets online in advance, as many days are expected to sell out.  

Wednesday, December 15 - Little Tots Fun - Story Time with Mrs. Claus

The Little Tots series at Washingtonian Center features different children's entertainers.
  • Jan. 5: Mad Science- A, B, C's of Science
  • Feb. 6: Tracey Eldridge- Shake Your Sillies Out
  • March 2: Beowulf T. Wonderbunny's Traveling Show of Mystery
  • April 6: Carousel Puppets- The Spring Fling
Where: At the Washingtonian Center in the lobby of the RIO Center.
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Everyone!
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: visit the website Please bring a new, unwrapped gift to donate to Toys for Tots!

Thursday, December 16 - Tracks in the Snow

We’ll read a story about tracks in the snow, then go outside to try to find some real tracks. It’s a fun way to find out who is visiting your back yard. If Mother Nature doesn't’t provide snow, we’ll make our own tracks to take home. Naturalist: Sandy Staples.
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: Ages 3-6
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.      
Cost: Free

Thursday, December 16 - Tiny Tot Walk: Evergreens Everywhere

The group of trees know as the every greens keep their needles all winter long. Join us to find out more about this majestic group of trees. Participants will spend time outdoors, so please dress for the weather. Adult participation is required.
When: 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM
Who: Ages 2-3.5
How: Registration suggested - call 240-314-8770.
Cost: $6 residents, $7 non-residents

Thursday, December 16 - 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 every month)
Who: Preschool aged
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free!
For more info: For more information call 301-258-6394 or visit the website.

Thursday, December 16 - Tyke Hike: Conifers

The word "conifer" comes from a Latin word meaning "to bear cones." Learn more abou these trees that have cones and add color to the winter's drab forest skyline. Participants will spend time outdoors, so please dress for the weather. Adult participation is required. Spaces are limited so advance registration is recommended.
Where: Croydon Creek Nature Center 852 Avery Road, Rockville, MD 
When: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Who: Ages 3.5-6 years
How: To register, call: 240-314-8770
Cost: $6 for residents, $7 for non-residents
For more info: Visit the website

Thursday, December 16 - Animals in Winter

How do animals cope with the change of seasons? What happens to animals as the weather gets cold and the days become shorter? Join us as we explore how different animals adjust to winter through hibernation, migration, and adaptation. Naturalist: Glenn Rice
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM (Also on 1/27 and 2/17)
Who: 3-6 years
How: Register online.
Cost: $5

Saturday, December 18 - Music & Merriment

Great music from local choirs, games, crafts.
Where: Rio Center - on the Lakefront Plaza
When: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Everyone welcome!
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE
For more info: Come visit the MacKid table for crafts, bubbles and face painting with Vicki.

Saturday, December 18 - "Make Some Noyes" Dance Party

Come dance the afternoon away and help the Noyes Children's Library while you do!  Enjoy storybook characters, local children's dance groups, balloons, photo ops, and face painting.  Concessions and Noyes t-shirts will be available for sale.  Children are invited to wear Halloween costumes.
Where: Kensington Town Hall, 3710 Mitchell St., Kensington, MD
When: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Also on 1/22)
Who: Everyone welcome.
How: Just show up!  Pay at the door with cash, check or charge.
Cost: $10 per person with a max of $25 per family.  Non-walkers are free.
For more info: Visit the website

Saturday, December 18 - Just for Kids Party!

A different Party theme each month. Sorry Mom & Dad, but these parties are just for kids. It's a Parent's Night Out for you. We'll be playing lots of active games, create a Special Craft, KIDS WILL GET TATTOOS & EAT PIZZA, plus they'll play in our castle maze & just have loads of FUN! A healthy, active way for your kids to spend the evening.
Where: Funfit @ Mt. Airy Studio of Dance, 329 E. Ridgeville Blvd, Mt. Airy, MD
When: 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Who: Ages 3-10.
How: Register online.
Cost: $30 per child, $26 per sibling.

Sunday, December 19 - Musikids Open House

Come visit Musikids to try their sample classes at 10:15 and/or 11:15, meet the staff, and tour the studio.
Where: Musikids Bethesda, 4500 Auburn Ave
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Everyone welcome.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free!

Plan Ahead:


December 21st through January 2nd

Tuesday, December 21 - Snowflake Bentley

Did you know that every snowflake is different? Learn about a man who photographed snowflakes, and make beautiful snowflakes to take home. Naturalist: Sandy Staples
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Who: Ages 3-6
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online. 
Cost: $5

Wednesday, December 22 - 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 1/26, 2/9 & 2/16)
Who: Ages 2-4.
How: Register online.
Cost: $5

Wednesday, December 22 - Edible Ornaments for Wildlife

Make some fun ornaments you can hang on a tree outside your home and see what wildlife comes to enjoy them. You can enjoy your tree beautifully decorated, and the wildlife will enjoy how it tastes! Naturalist: Lisa Droubi
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: Ages 3-10
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.
Cost: $5

Tuesday, December 28 - Spider Time!

Learn about spiders through a story and meet Meadowside’s own Rose Haired tarantula. Create a craft to take home. Storyteller: Kim Poore
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Who: Ages 3-7
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.
Cost: $5

Tuesday, December 28 - Harlem Globetrotters

The Harlem Globetrotters 2011 “4 Times the Fun” World Tour is coming to Baltimore!  Always full of surprises, this year’s tour features the team’s latest and greatest trick, a “4-Point Shot” from behind the 3-point line and in front of the half court line, something that has never been done before in the game of basketball!
Where: 1st Mariner Areana, Baltimore
When: 2:00 PM (Also at 7 PM)
Who: Everyone
How: Tickets are available online at www.harlemglobetrotters.com
Cost: $25.60 - $138.70 (VIP)
For more info: Macaroni Kid readers can enjoy a special offer by entering the promo code MACKID online when ordering tickets to receive $7 off of select tickets.  The Globetrotters will be back in town at the Patriot Center and the Verizon Center in early March.  Stay tuned for giveaway tickets!

Tuesday, December 28 - Winter Explorations - Grandkids & Me Event

Come with your grandchild to share an afternoon exploring the winter season around Meadowside Nature Center. Explore wildlife adaptations in winter, go on a scavenger hunt hike, play games, enjoy snowy snacks, and make winter-themed crafts that you can take home and treasure. Sign up the grandkids; grandparents are free! Naturalist: Lisa Droubi
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 2:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: Ages 6-9
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.
Cost: $15

Wednesday, December 29 - Winter on the Farm

Meet Naturalist Sandy Staples at the red barn at Agricultural History Farm Park to explore what life was like during the winter on a 1900’s farm in Montgomery County. Dress for the weather so that we can be both inside and outside. Naturalist: Sandy Staples
Where: Agricultural History Farm Park (18400 Muncaster Rd, Derwood, MD 20855)
When: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: Ages 3-6
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online. 
Cost: $5

Friday, December 31 - Family New Year's Eve Party

Join North Metro DC Mommies, Macaroni Kid Rockville-Gaithersburg and Great Kids Village for a New Year's Eve party for the whole family! 
Where: Great Kids Village, Silver Spring
When: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: Everyone welcome!
How: More details to come.
Cost: $5 per person

Sunday, January 2 - The Great Zucchini @ Great Kids Village

Come see The Great Zucchini at Great Kids Village!  The Great Zucchini puts on a fabulously entertaining magic show for toddlers and preschoolers.
Where: Great Kids Village - Silver Spring, 8040 Georgia Avenue
When: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: Everyone welcome
How: Buy your tickets online.
Cost: Tickets are $8 in advance, $10 in person.
For more info: Check out all the great upcoming events at Great Kids Village.

Macaroni Kid New Year's Challenge


A New Year, A New You!

I'm thrilled to announce that starting January 1st, we will be featuring weight loss and nutrition tips, discounted exercise programs and more!  I will be inviting you all to join me on my weight loss challenge, and I hope that we will all be able to keep each other accountable.  We are teaming up with several of my favorite local trainers, gyms and programs so no matter what your time constraints, or how much you have to lose, there will be a program for you!  We will be offering ...


Weekly Reoccuring Events & 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 weekly story times.  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].
Tuesdays:

  • Borders Books @ White Flint 10am in the Amphitheater
  • Child's Play @ Congressional Plaza 10:30am
  • Pottery Barn Kids @ White Flint 11am-11:30am ...

Kids Eat Free or Cheap in Rockville & Gaithersburg


Be sure to call and confirm before heading to the restaurant - offers can change at any time

Tuesdays:

  • Austin Grill - kids eat free
  • Denny's - Kids eat free after 4pm
  • Chevy's Fresh Mex - Kids eat free and from 5-9pm you can see Chuckles the Clown!
  • Lone Star Steakhouse

Wednesdays:

  • Chick-fil-A - kids eat free
  • Lebanese Taverna
  • Cheeburger Cheeburger - 1/2 price kids' meal with purchase of an adult entree.  Dine in only.

Fridays:

  • Chicken Out - kids eat free

Saturdays:

  • Chicken Out - kids eat free

All Week Long:

  • Buca di Beppo - kids under 10 eat for $5.99
  • California Pizza Kitchen
  • California Tortilla
  • CiCi's Pizza - plus they ...

Macaroni Kid Saves


Please share your favorites with us!

Free daily samples:

www.allyou.com

Special Promotion Codes:

* MarVa Tots'n Teens - Save $10 on your session fee when you pay in full and mention Macaroni Kid

*I'm always happy to offer you all a 5% discount when you purchase your Willow House or Private Quarters linens through me. Just e-mail me with your order.

*Rejuvenite Pillows - 25% off

*Receive 10% off your Scholastic Storybook Treasures DVDs.  Use code "macaronikid10". Expires 1/1/2011.

*ManCave meats- Save 20% by using code: "mancavemacaroni"

*Eddie Bauer - 15% off online orders ...


Business & Sponsor Directory


Show our sponsors some Macaroni Love!

If you know of a fantastic local business that you love, let us know and we will check them out!  Even better, let them know about us!  To have your info listed, please check out the media kit and click Business Directory.  In the next few weeks, you will see our new and improved Business Directory on the left hand side of the page.

*All ads in the Business Directory are personally tested and recommended by MacKid Rockville.

Independent Consultants, Services, Sponsors & Affiliates:



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