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Putting My Macaroni Kid To Work....


SVM Macaroni Kid - Your Weekly Events & Activities Newsletter

I am short on words tonight. It's just been one of those weeks  - spread too thin! One day I'm on the (very chilly) set of The Vampire Diaries coordinating interviews for The CW website, the next I'm setting up radio tours for editors from MONEY Magazine about how to invest in 2012. Today I've been getting this issue together, but also scheduling more interviews, this time for IronE Singleton (T-Dog!) of The Walking Dead (for you fans out there) and making sure everyone in town knows ...


WIN 4 TICKETS TO THE PRINCESS AND THE GOBLIN


Twyla Tharp's "The Princess and the Goblin" Premieres at Cobb Energy Centre Feb. 10

This season, it's history in the making as Atlanta Ballet embarks on one of the most monumental collaborations of its 82-year history - a world premiere story ballet by renowned choreographer Twyla Tharp - The Princess and The Goblin.  Co-commissioned by Atlanta Ballet and Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet (RWB), the ballet will receive its world premiere in Atlanta, February 10-19 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, followed by the Canadian premiere in fall 2012. This family-friendly ballet will involve students from the Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education. It ...


WIN A Family 4-Pack to "The Golden Ticket"


The Atlanta Opera Will Have 4 Performances at Cobb Energy Centre Beginning March 3

The second production in The Atlanta Opera’s 2011-12 season is a comic opera called The Golden Ticket, based on the classic children’s book “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” by Roald Dahl.  In this story, a young boy named Charlie finds a “golden ticket” admitting him into Willy Wonka’s top-secret chocolate factory where he encounters chocolate rivers, inflating blueberries, magic elevators and other delights. The Golden Ticket is a poignant tale about wishes coming true.

The opera will be sung in English with English Supertitles and run approximately ...


Enter to Win a ONE FOR THE MONEY Prize Pack!


ONE FOR THE MONEY, Starring Katherine Heigl, in Theatres Jan. 27th

You can enter for your chance to win a ONE FOR THE MONEY prize pack from Mini Pink Book!

Starring Katherine Heigl, ONE FOR THE MONEY is a fresh, funny action-comedy directed by Julie Anne Robinson and also starring Jason O'Mara, Daniel Sunjata, John Leguizamo, Debbie Reynolds and Debra Monk. ONE FOR THE MONEY is based on the novel by Janet Evanovich. Lionsgate and Lakeshore Entertainment present a Lakeshore Entertainment Lionsgate Wendy Finerman Sidney Kimmel Entertainment production in association with Abishag Productions. Directed by Julie Anne Robinson. Screenplay by ...


WIN a Copy of "Treasure Buddies"


The Buddies Are Back With Their Sixth Adventure, Available on DVD & Blu-ray January 31st.

Disney’s talking canine superstars are back in Treasure Buddies, their sixth all-new adventure. This latest story is told from the perspective of the Buddies’ newest friend, a mischievous Egyptian monkey named Babi. Rosebud, B-Dawg, Budderball, Buddha and Mudbud embark on their biggest adventure yet: to the ruins of ancient Egypt. With the help of some exotic new friends, teamwork and friendship, the Buddies must avoid booby traps, solve puzzles and explore a mysterious tomb — all in search of the greatest treasure known to animalkind.

Packed with action, heart and ...


Ticket Update!


Laughing Pizza VIP Concert Movie Premiere Feb. 4th

Atlanta's family-favorite musical group, Laughing Pizza, invites families to the grand Oceans Ballroom at Georgia Aquarium for a one-time, VIP family film premiere Saturday, Feb. 4 at 11:00 a.m. The award-winning band and world’s largest aquarium are teaming up for the world premiere of Laughing Pizza: The Concert Movie as well as a live performance by Laughing Pizza after the screening.

Beginning at 11:00 a.m., guests will get the “red carpet treatment” with photographs, spectacular views into the world’s largest aquatic habitat, Ocean ...

Macaroni Kid Reader Discounts! READ THIS!


Offers from Advertisers & Coupon Codes (All in One Place!)

MACARONI KID ADVERTISER/PARTNER DISCOUNTS

Precious Cargo - SALE! 25% off Ragazzi Jan. 6-Feb. 6. Almost all furniture! 15% off Young America too. Also, visit the website for a 10% off custom bedding coupon.

Cowlicks Yogurt and Floats - Half Off Yogurt and Floats on Wednesdays from 5-6pm. New Friday  After-School Special from 4-6pm —Purchase one yogurt and receive a 50% discount on ONE yogurt cup or float. Purchase more than one yogurt or float and receive a Buy One Get One Free offer of equal or lesser value. Rainy Day Specials ...


We're Working on a Preschool Directory!


Get Your Preschool/Daycare Listed For Free - SVM Mac Kid Contest!

As you may know, Smyrna Vinings Marietta Macaroni Kid has been a trusted source for parents in the area for over two years now. We keep moms, dads, grandparents and caretakers informed of all the fun things to do the with the kids...and combine these activities in one easy location, giving parents time to enjoy the events with their families, instead of spending time searching online and in newspapers for things to do.

Macaroni Kid would love to work out a partnership with are preschools/daycares! We're looking ...


This Week's Picks:


January 26th through January 31st

Thursday, January 26 through Tuesday, February 28 - The Rink at Piedmont Park

The Rink offers modern amenities for day and night skating, including a heated tent, a state of the art sound system, and rink-side dining. The Rink has the best hockey skate available made by Bauer. This skate is perfect for the beginner or someone who is just getting back on the ice. Lessons also available.
Where: Park Tavern at Piedmont Park, 500 10th Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
When: Mon-Fri 4:30pm to Midnight; Sat & Sun 10:30am to Midnight
Who: Anyone who likes to skate! Skate times after 10:30pm are for ages 21+ only.
How: Purchase Tickets Online or at the Rink (Advance recommended).
Cost: $15 includes skate rental.
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information

Thursday, January 26 through Sunday, January 29 - Cavalia: ODYSSEO

FINAL WEEKEND! Cavalia’s equestrian odyssey continues with an all-new adventure, ODYSSEO, a new tribute to horses and the relationship humans have shared with them for thousands of years. The show makes its U.S. premiere in Atlanta! The immense theatre, with no obstructed views, houses a 2,500-square-metre stage. Surrounded by projections and visual effects, 69 horses and 55 artists will embark together on a journey and travel through the greatest wonders nature has to offer. See acrobats, aerialists, musicians and riders perform together in a live show like nothing you have ever seen before!    
Where: The tent in Midtown Atlanta at 8th and Spring Streets
When: See website for showtimes
Who: All adults! For Kids - only those who love horses, and probably ages 8+ due to length of segments.
How: Purchase Tickets
Cost: Tickets start at $69.50 adults/ $49.50 children. Special packages, including the Horse Lovers Package, let patrons tour the Cavalia stables after the show. Check out the post holiday SALE on www.cavalia.net
For more info: CLICK HERE for all the details! 

Thursday, January 26 through Sunday, March 11 - Space! at Center for Puppetry Arts

In space, no one can hear you... learn! Blast off on a galactic journey of scientific facts & pure fantasy with your hosts, Ot and Eema! Discover out-of-this-world facts about planets, stars, meteors and more! Feel the gravitational pull with Sir Isaac Newton,  gaze at Saturn's rings with Galileo, rock out on the asteroid belt, and cheer on the moon landing of 1969. Ever wonder what kind of gas fuels the sun, or where the planets got their name? Find out in this galactic trip filled with cosmic special effects, non-stop action, and an eclectic musical score fit for a universe as vast and diverse as our own.
Where: Center for Puppetry Arts, 1404 Spring Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
When: See website for showtimes
Who: Fans of Puppet Shows - And Outer Space!
How: Purchase Tickets
Cost: Tickets for patrons two and older are $16.50 ($9.25 members) and include admission to the performance, Create-A-Puppet Workshop (or Create-A-Puppet To-Go Kit), and all museum exhibits. Make your own Extraterrestrial Hand Puppet!
For more info: CLICK HERE for details

Friday, January 27 through Sunday, January 29 - Ice Skating Rink at Centennial Olympic Park

FINAL WEEKEND! Time is running out! Downtown Atlanta’s only outdoor ice skating rink at Centennial Olympic Park is an annual holiday tradition. Visitors enjoy covered observation seating, theatrical lighting on the real ice and music. The rink is open daily. Lockers are available for $1, at the ice rink to securely store belongings.
Where: Ice Skating Rink at Centennial Olympic Park
When: Mon-Fri 4:30pm to 10pm; Sat 10am to 11pm; Sun 10am to 10pm
Who: Skaters!
How: Show Up
Cost: Admission is $7 per person and skate rental is an additional $2 for 90 minutes of skate time
For more info: CLICK HERE

Friday, January 27 through Sunday, January 29 - Shen Yun

Shen Yun offers a world-class production that celebrates the excellence and grandeur of classical Chinese dance and music inspired by the myths, legends, and  beauty of 5,000 years of traditional Chinese culture. Imagine stage-shaking drums, descending clouds of heavenly maidens, flowing silk and flying handkerchiefs, awe-inspiring flips and leaps, mesmerizing reenactments of traditional Chinese folktales, synchronized dancers, rainbows of hand-sewn colorful costumes, a soul-stirring traditional instrumental soloist, “Pavarotti of the East” vocalists, set against blockbuster-quality digital backdrops, with a full live orchestra fusing West and East — all packed into a thrilling two-hour show.
Where: Cobb Energy Centre
When: See website for Showtimes
Who: Older Kids and adults
How: Purchase Tickets
Cost: Tickets start at $50
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information.

Friday, January 27 through Sunday, January 29 - High Museum Canned Food Drive

Inspired by Andy Warhol’s paintings of 32 cans of Campbell’s Soup featured in the current Picasso to Warhol: Fourteen Modern Masters exhibition, the High has partnered with the Atlanta Community Food Bank & Campbell Soup Company to host a canned food drive. Visitors to the Museum are encouraged to bring canned food donations. For every one food item donated, visitors will receive $1 off of Museum admission, up to $10 off. The discount may also be applied to Museum membership. In support of the initiative, Campbell Soup Company has donated 3,024 cans of soup.
Where: High Museum of Art; 1280 Peachtree Street, N.E., Atlanta, GA
When: During regular museum hours
Who: Anyone
How: Show up with canned food during museum hours
Cost: Admission to museum discounted with food donation (see description).
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information.

Friday, January 27 - Kiddie Gardener Series

Kiddie Gardener Series at Smith-Gilbert Gardens. Every Second & Fourth Friday. A time for kids to come hear a garden related story, sing, create art and walk around the gardens. Note that advance reservations are now required. If full, next date is Feb. 10th
Where: Smith-Gilbert Gardens, 2382 Pine Mountain Rd., Kennesaw, GA 30152
When: 10:00 AM (Every Second and Fourth Friday)
Who: Ages 3-5 only
How: Registration for this program is now required. Fills quickly!
Cost: $5 per child. Adults free.
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information and to register.

Saturday, January 28 - Lowe's Build and Grow Clinics

Jan. 28: Build-a-saurus From project basics to giving your child the opportunity to say, "I built it!", Build and Grow kid's clinics are a great way to help build confidence! Each participant receives a free apron, goggles, a project themed patch, and a certification of merit upon completion of their project.
Where: All Lowe's Stores
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Crafty kids
How: Register in Advance - register early to avoid all spaces being full!
Cost: FREE
For more info: CLICK HERE to register.

Saturday, January 28 - Celebrate Chinese New Year at Moore's 1 Year Anniversary Party

Free event! Celebrate Chinese New Year at Moore's One Year Anniversary Party. Jumpy house, face painter, pizza*, mini Kung Fu session, goody bags*. Come try DaVinci Pizza special Dragon Pizza, Coffee by REV coffee, and tea from Chick-fil-a. Discount on enrollment too! Check our website for FULL details (including adult workshops!) and updated schedule. *While supplies last
Where: Moore's of Atlanta Chinese Martial Arts; 1810 Spring Road #4, Smyrna, GA 30080
When: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Full Event Schedule on Website - Kid activities primarily from noon to 3pm)
Who: Anyone - all ages (demos/workshops for adults too in afternoon)
How: Show Up - however, RSVP appreciated for count on pizza & goody bags HERE.
Cost: FREE!
For more info: CLICK HERE for more info and schedule.

Saturday, January 28 through Monday, February 20 - Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Park

Atlanta’s Stone Mountain Park transforms into a winter wonderland with Snow Mountain, Atlanta's only snow park. Bundle your family up and get ready for snow tubing, snowballs, snowmen and snow angels. A 400’ foot tubing hill and a snow play area filled with a blizzard of snow activities make Snow Mountain Atlanta’s not-to-be-missed winter attraction. There’s even a play zone reserved for your littlest snow bunnies. Check out SnoFire Point for warming your toes, roasting marshmallows and making everyone’s favorite winter treat—S’mores! HAVE YOU BEEN? TELL US ABOUT IT ON FB!
Where: Stone Mountain Park; US Highway 78 East, Exit 8, Stone Mountain, Ga 30087
When: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Saturdays & Sundays only)
Who: Snow Seekers!
How: Make Reservations HERE. 
Cost: Starts at $17 for members.Open Saturdays and Sundays.
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information

Tuesday, January 31 through Sunday, February 5 - Memphis

Winner of four 2010 Tony Awards...From the underground dance clubs of 1950s Memphis, TN comes a hot Broadway musical that bursts off the stage with explosive dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and forbidden love. Inspired by actual events, Memphis is about a white radio DJ who wants to change the world and a black club singer who is ready for her big break. Come along on their incredible journey to the ends of the airwaves -- filled with laughter, soaring emotion and roof-raising rock 'n' roll.
Where: Fox Theatre
When: See website for showtimes
Who: Teens and up
How: Purchase Tickets
Cost: Ticket prices start at $28. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.ticketmaster.com or by phone at 1-800-982-2787. Also available at the Fox Box Office
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information.

This Week's Calendar:


January 26th through February 2nd

Thursday, January 26 through Thursday, February 2 - CobbKids Library Programs

The Cobb Library System has an array of free programs for babies to teens: from baby & toddler story times, to movie matinees, & more. Check out the CobbCat website for information on programs, dates and locations. See website for programs which vary by library.  Since there are so many toddler, infant storytimes - and so many libraries - please check the calendar! I have pulled out some unique events and highlighted them separately from this listing.
Where: Cobb County Public Libraries
When: Varies
Who: Everyone
How: Check the website for details - http://www.cobbcat.org/CobbKids.html
Cost: FREE
For more info: CLICK HERE for a full schedule of storytimes and events.

Thursday, January 26 through Thursday, February 2 - Movies at Merchants Walk

Although it’s not a film festival or special, not to be forgotten is Picture Show @ Merchants Walk. Recent releases for less than $2! Also a movie meal deal: kid’s popcorn, small drink, funsize candy and movie ticket all for $4.50. Movies currently playing include Dolphin Tale; Puss in Boots, Puss in Boots 3D;  Footloose; Happy Feet Two and Happy Feet Two in 3D
Where: Picture Show @ Merchants Walk; 4400 Roswell Rd., Marietta, GA
When: Showtimes Vary
Who: Movie Fans
How: Show Up/ purchase tickets
Cost: Tickets alone are $1.75 normally, and $1 on Tuesdays!  ($2 surcharge for 3D)
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information

Thursday, January 26 through Thursday, February 2 - Smyrna Library Events

The library features story programs for children weekdays & weekends. Programs are open to library patrons. City residents who do not currently have a library card may bring in proof of residency. Non-residents may purchase a library card. Please call ahead - registration required for many of these programs. Thurs: Fun with Phonics; Mon: Spanish Storytime;  Wed: Drop In School Age Crafts; all storytimes listed on library calendar.
Where: Smyrna Public Library; 100 Village Green Circle   
When: See Library Calendar for Programs
Who: Anyone
How: Call 770-431-2860 for information and reservations.
Cost: FREE for library patrons
For more info: Call 770-431-2860 x 3. For general information and a calendar of programs, CLICK HERE

Thursday, January 26 through Wednesday, February 29 - Free Admission to Callaway Gardens

Callaway Gardens has endless opportunities for exploration and education: a 10-mile bicycle trail and seven miles of nature trails, the internationally acclaimed Day Butterfly Center, the award-winning Sibley Horticultural Center, the Callaway Discovery Center, featuring the spectacular Birds of Prey shows and world-famous woodland Gardens, along with fishing, golfing and dining. A perfect road trip for the weekend (even better if you decide to stay overnight!)
Where: Callaway Gardens® is in Pine Mountain, Georgia, 60 minutes southwest of Atlanta. See website for directions.
When: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Who: Anyone - Fun for the whole family!
How: Make the drive!
Cost: FREE Admission
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information.

Thursday, January 26 - Global Babies at Lewis A. Ray Library

Explore learning concepts with books, materials, and activities based on senses, shapes, and colors.
Where: Lewis A. Ray Library; 4500 Oakdale Road, Smyrna, Georgia 30080
When: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Infants/ Toddlers
How: Show Up (Call Ahead to Confirm)
Cost: FREE
For more info: Please call (770) 801-5335 for more information.

Friday, January 27 - Business Idea Class for Work at Home Moms

Emmy award-winning TV journalist turned mompreneur, Joyce Brewer will teach her new e-book, Use What You Know: A Business Idea Guide for Moms, as a class. Besides Brewer's presentation, attendees will also hear from one of the featured moms in the e-book who took a skill she had and turned it into a business. Emma Sudduth is a partner at Collective Experts, a high caliber staffing agency for Atlanta-area small businesses. Her background in project management made her business a perfect fit.
Where: Bean Work Play Cafe; 134 New Street in Decatur off of College Avenue. Bean is a co-work space for parents and a play space for children so you have the option to reserve a space for your child while you take the class.
When: 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Who: The class is perfect for a mom who is at the idea phase of her business or wants to turn her hobby into a business.
How: Take the class that includes a download copy of the e-book featuring interviews with six Atlanta area mompreneurs and more than 40 business ideas (value: $12); business idea exercises; resources and follow-up; coffee & dessert. RSVP & pay for the class HERE
Cost: $25 for the class; optional child care is $7 per hour. There's a discount if you bring a friend or potential business partner.

Saturday, January 28 - Marietta Square Winter Farmer’s Market

Marietta Square Winter Farmer’s Market features products that are grown and produced in Georgia, including produce, plants, honey, breads, cheese and other items. Rain or shine.
Where: Glover Park-Marietta Square
When: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Saturdays through March 31st)
Who: Fresh food seekers
How: Show Up
Cost: Whatever You Purchase!
For more info: More info: 770-499-9393 or www.mariettasquarefarmersmarket.net

Saturday, January 28 through Wednesday, February 1 - Barnes & Noble Storytimes

B&N -2952 Cobb Pkwy hosts storytime for toddlers 3 & younger and for pre-schoolers 3 to 6 at 11am every Tuesday and Saturday. B&N - Town Center Prado in Marietta hosts storytime for children at 11am every Tuesday and Saturday. B&N - The Avenues West Cobb hosts storytime for toddlers 3 & younger and for pre-schoolers 3 to 6 at 11am every Wednesday and Saturday. CALL YOUR STORE TO CONFIRM.
Where: Various Barnes & Noble Locations
When: 11:00 AM (Every Wednesday & Saturday)
Who: Toddlers and Pre-schoolers
How: Show Up
Cost: Free
For more info: Check with the store by calling ahead.

Saturday, January 28 - Free Crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning

"Free Crafts for Kids" is a program at every Lakeshore Learning Store, every Saturday, for kids 3+. Jan. 28 - Make a Groundhog Puppet
Where: All Lakeshore Learning Stores; 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta, GA
When: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Every Saturday)
Who: Kids 3+
How: Show Up. CLICK HERE for all store locations.
Cost: FREE.
For more info: CLICK HERE for photos of the projects that kids can create.

Thursday, February 2 - Mommy & Me at the Southern Museum

Designed for pre-school age children ages 3-5 years old and their parents, the museum’s history, themes and exhibits provide a fun and exciting starting point for educational activities. Feb. 2 - Train Song

Where: Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History; 29 Cherokee St. Kennesaw, GA 30144
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (Most Thursdays)
Who: Parents and kids 3-5 (recommended age)
How: SHOW UP
Cost: Free with museum admission. Adults  $7.50; Senior Citizens (over 60)  $6.50; Children 4-12  $5.50; Children 3 and under  Free  
For more info: 770-427-2117, ext 3173 or CLICK HERE

Thursday, February 2 - Toddler Thursdays at the High

Feb. 2: Mouth: Open wide! Today we’ll be looking at different kinds of mouths. Then we’ll use toothbrushes as paintbrushes to make some beautiful masterpieces.

 
Where: High Museum of Art; 1280 Peachtree Street, N.E., Atlanta, GA 
When: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Every Thursday)
Who: Toddlers & parents
How: Show up - no registration required.
Cost: Free with museum admission. Members: Free;  Adults: $18; Senior (65 & over): $15;  Student: $15; Child (ages 6-17): $11; Child (5 and under):  FREE.
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information.

Thursday, February 2 - FilmFest at East Marietta Library

FilmFest is 30 minutes of short films based on children's stories. It takes place every Thursday afternoon from 3:30-4 pm.
Where: East Marietta Library, 2051 Lower Roswell Rd, Marietta, Georgia 30068
When: 3:30 PM - 4:00 PM (Every Thursday)
Who: This program is for all ages and requires no pre-registration.
How: Show Up
Cost: FREE
For more info: CLICK HERE for the calendar

Teen Scene:


Tuesday, February 7 through Sunday, February 26 - Ruth and the Green Book at Center for Puppetry Arts

Chronicling a relatively unknown chapter in Civil Rights history, Ruth and the Green Book follows an African American family as they travel from Chicago to Alabama in the Jim Crow South of the 1950s. After being turned away from hotels, gas stations and restaurants, 8-year-old Ruth and her parents are introduced to "The Green Book," a pivotal publication conceived as a response to the humiliation and violence experienced by African Americans while travelling. With this guide, Ruth's family, like many others, learned where they would be welcome. Using an innovative combination of puppetry and animated projections this  is a collaboration between Artistic Director Jon Ludwig & author Calvin Alexander Ramsey.
Where: Center for Puppetry Arts, 1404 Spring Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
When: See website for showtimes
Who: Teen & Adult Series - Recommended for ages 9+
How: Purchase Tickets
Cost: $25 ($15 for Members)
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information

Plan Ahead:


February 4th through February 18th

Saturday, February 4 - Laughing Pizza VIP Concert Film Premiere at Georgia Aquarium

Red Carpet Event at the Georgia Aquarium in their beautiful Oceans Ballroom, overlooking the largest aquarium tank in the world with sharks and fish, as well as their tank with Beluga Whales! Pre-show entertainmetn by Atlanta’s own Circus Camp. Have your photo taken on the Red Carpet and then view the world premiere of the Laughing Pizza Family Concert Movie! This film has already won 5 out of 5 Doves from the Dove Foundation, and was endorsed by the Parents Television Council! Laughing Pizza will perform a few songs after the film, and you’ll have a chance to meet Billy, Lisa, and Emily in person.
Where: Georgia Aquarium Ocean's Ballroom
When: 12:00pm (Doors Open at 11am)
Who: Laughing Pizza Fans!
How: Purchase Tickets
Cost: $15 premiere only (children under 1 are free). Additional ticket options include discounted Aquarium admission after the show (including Dolphin Tales at 3:30pm). See website for prices & details. Combo priced ticket (saves $10) only available through 2/2 online.
For more info: CLICK HERE  to purchase tickets and for all the details!

Saturday, February 4 through Tuesday, March 6 - Adventures with Clifford The Big Red Dog™ at Imagine It!

Adventures with Clifford The Big Red Dog™ will transport visitors to the world of Clifford™, Emily Elizabeth™ and the residents of Birdwell Island. The exhibit offers numerous immersive "paws-on" adventures that reinforce simple life lessons such as: Share, Work Together, Be Responsible, Be Truthful, Be Kind, Believe in Yourself, and Help Others. Children can visit the 9-foot high Clifford and slide down his tail. Children can help fill Clifford's big dog bowl with bones using a conveyor belt, and create sand art and find "bone"-ifide treasures at T-Bone's Beach.
Where: Imagine it! Children's Museum of Atlanta 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta
When: Museum Hours
Who: Geared for kids under 8
How: Show Up/ Pay Admission
Cost: Admission is $12.75 plus tax for adults and children ages 2 and above. Children under 2 are free.
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information

Saturday, February 4 - Hawks Chick-fil-A Family Night

Feb. 4- Hawks vs. Philadelphia  Chick-fil-A Family night packages are back for the 2011-2012 season and start at just $79. Lower Level seating starts at just $99. New this year - NO EXTRA TICKET FEES. Get 4 tickets and 4 combo meal coupons. Chick-fil-A value meal vouchers are redeemable at all area Chick-fil-A restaurants, including the location closest to Philips Arena in the CNN Center. Vouchers are valid through the entire 2011-2012 Atlanta Hawks. season.
Where: Philips Arena
When: 7:00 PM
Who: Basketball Fans
How: Purchase Tickets
Cost: Chick-fil-A Family night packages start at $79. Lower Level seating starts at just $99. Includes 4 tix and 4 combo meals.
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information

Friday, February 10 through Sunday, February 19 - Twyla Tharp’s The Princess and the Goblin / Atlanta Ballet

Adapted from the 19th century fairytale by George MacDonald, Twyla Tharp’s The Princess and the Goblin is a story of courage and forgiveness. Arrogant King Papa has let his vanity get the best of him. As he and his courtiers increasingly absorb themselves with frivolous parties and protocols, they remain oblivious that their own children have gone missing. Unable to make King Papa realize his arrogance and ignorance, young Princess Irene decides to take action. Together with her great grandmother, her best friend Curdie, and a little bit of faith, Irene ventures deep into the underworld – the kingdom of the goblins – to rescue the forgotten children.
Where: Cobb Energy Centre
When: See website for showtimes
Who: Ballet Lovers (family-friendly)
How: Purchase Tickets
Cost: Tickets start at $20
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information

Saturday, February 11 - Marietta Mardi Gras Run

The 3rd Annual Marietta Mardi Gras 5K Race benefits the Junior League of Cobb-Marietta and its community partners. We are teaming up with Shoes for the Cure for a shoe drive. ALL shoes are welcome- not just running shoes. There will be bins for drop off available.
Where: Start and finish on the square in downtown Marietta
When: 5K - 8AM;1K - 8:45AM; Tot Trot - 9AM
Who: Runners and walkers of all ages (Peachtree Qualifier)
How: Register
Cost: $25 preregistered by Monday, 2/6/12. $30 after 2/6/12 and on race day. $15 for Tot Trot
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information

Sunday, February 12 - ASO presents The Fabled Cinderella

You and your children know the story but you’ve never seen Cinderella like this before. Hilarious life-sized puppets, masks, magic and wonderful music assure this nationally acclaimed original production (by the company that gave us last season’s Aladdin and the Arabian Nights) is fun for the whole family.
Where: Atlanta Symphony Hall
When: 1:30PM & 3:30PM
Who: Family Concert
How: Purchase Tickets
Cost: $15 to $20
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information

Wednesday, February 15 through Monday, February 20 - Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey: Fully Charged

The action at Fully Charged begins an hour before show time at the All Access Pre-show – FREE to all ticket holders. Get to know the world’s greatest performers, meet some amazing animals in person, and work to become CircusFit all before the show starts!
Where: Philips Arena
When: See website for showtimes
Who: Circus Fans
How: Purchase Tickets by CLICKING HERE
Cost: Tickets start at $14
For more info: CLICK HERE for more on the show

Saturday, February 18 - Snow White (Atlanta Ballet Family Performance)

See the magic unfold in this one-hour family performance of the classic fairytale Snow White. This enchanting fantasy stars all of your favorites – Prince Charming, the wicked Queen, and of course, Snow White. It's the perfect way to begin a lifelong love of the arts – an event your whole family will remember happily ever after.  
Where: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
When: 2:00 PM
Who:   Suggested for kids 3-6 years old.
How: Purchase Tickets
Cost: Tickets start at $10
For more info: CLICK HERE for more information

Popcorn Balls - Macaroni Made


The world's largest popcorn ball was unveiled in October 2006 in Lake Forest, IL. It weighed 3,415 pounds, measured 8 feet in diameter, and had a circumference of 24.6 feet!

Who doesn't like popcorn? Usually served salted or sweetened, with butter or without, popcorn is one of America's favorite snacks!

Our favorite here at Macaroni Kid is the Popcorn Ball! Popcorn balls are fun not only to eat, but also to make with your little ones!

Try or recipe out!
9 cups plain popped popcorn ...


Speaking of Popcorn....


Science Fun: Floating Popcorn Kernels

Demonstrate buoyancy and chemical reactions! Show your kids some science with items you probably have at home.

What you need:

  • A clear, tall container
  • 3 cups of water--You can see in the video that I did not measure anything
  • 1/4 to 1/3 cup of baking soda
  • 1/8 cup of unpopped popcorn kernels
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup of white vinegar

What you do:

  1. Mix baking soda and water in the clear container
  2. Add corn kernels
  3. Pour in vinegar--do this part in or near the sink. I ...

On TV: "To Save a Life"


GMC World Premiere Movie Airs Sunday, Jan. 29 at 7pm and 9pm

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among adolescents and teenagers according to the National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH). On Sunday, January 29, GMC, America’s channel for uplifting family entertainment, will present the world television premiere of To Save A Life, a GMC World Premiere Movie that offers hope to hurting teens and empowers students to make a difference. The movie will air  at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. ET.

To Save A Life is an inspiring story about hope and one teenager’s quest ...


Pancake and Sausage Muffins


This year one of my goals was to make more and buy less, at least when it comes to convenience foods.  My kids love Pancakes on a Stick, a pancake wrapped around a breakfast sausage on a stick.  I can't blame them, I love anything on a stick!

Since I couldn't figure out how to make those on a stick I turned them into muffins.  They freeze great, just like the store bought kind, and you can make a ton at one time.  Both bonuses for our busy ...


Welcome New Subscribers!


Some Helpful Tips for Using This Site - My Macaroni & Facebook!

If you are on Facebook, than be sure to LIKE the Smyrna Vinings Marietta Macaroni Kid Facebook Page. Why? If you like our giveaways, you can almost always get bonus chances to win by being a Facebook Fan! But that's not the main reason. SVM Macaroni Kid is a community resource. I don't update this website daily, but I do post deals & discounts, new events and items of interest on the FB page consistently. And, it's a great source of information. Have a question about something happening ...

Restaurant Directory: Kids Eat Free & Cheap


Tell Them You Heard it From Macaroni Kid!

(Please call ahead to confirm as these specials do change.)

Atlanta Bread Company (Smyrna) – Kids 12 & under eat free Tuesday after 4pm. One kid’s meal w/every adult meal purchased. Face & cookie painting at 6pm occasional Tues (call). 4490B South Cobb Drive @ East/West Connector; Smyrna, GA 30082; (770) 438-6800 http://www.atlantabread.com/

Atlanta Bread Company (Marietta) – Kids 12 & under eat free Mon-Thur after 4pm. One kid’s meal free w/ every adult meal purchased. Town Center. 2555 Prado Lane off Barrett Pkwy. Prado Center; Marietta, GA 30066 ...


SVM Macaroni Kid Mom’s Group Directory


Are you new to the area? Even if you are not, maybe you are looking for other moms to hang out with (with kids and maybe sometimes without!). Local mom's groups are a great way to meet new friends, and find support. And your kids will make new friends as well!

I've created a list of area Mom's Clubs in the new Business Directory (Many thanks to everyone who contacted me and submitted information.) I know there are more, so if you are a member of a ...


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Contest Ends 6/15/2013