April 29, 2005

Number 64

............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Calendar, Advice & Tips for Busy Families in the San Gabriel Valley

The Back Fence

Upcoming Events

Our Sponsors

...................................................

........................................................................................................

.....................................................

By Karen E. Klein
Have you ever noticed that when you're a mom, it's almost counterproductive to take a vacation? I say "almost" because, in the end, getting to spend uninterrupted time relaxing or sight-seeing with your family is really wonderful. But when you are responsible for the planning, packing and preparation involved (and aren't we usually responsible for everything?) a vacation can be just about overwhelming.

If you work outside the home, you have to give vacation notice and then plan to have crucial meetings and tasks covered by someone else during your absence. If you're like me and you work for yourself, you have to actually do all the work ahead of time (or else you don't get paid!), plus some extra, extra work so you're not way behind schedule when you return.

The selection and booking of the vacation itself can be fun, but it tends to be time-consuming, especially in these days when everything is "do-it-all-yourself online." Then there's the mail that must be suspended or picked up by a neighbor, ditto for the newspaper, the feeding and care of pets to be arranged, the watering and trash that must be attended to while you're gone - whew! This doesn't count packing for yourself and the kids, or arranging for child care if you're ditching the kiddies and trying to get away with your spouse. If you're not overdue for a vacation now, just plan one and by the time you finally depart you will definitely be totally exhausted. In the end, as I say, our recent spring break trip to Warner Springs Ranch was really wonderful. It was just the getting there that nearly killed me.

Seriously, though, Warner Springs is a great place: An historic hot springs resort that has something for everyone in the family - two huge (and I mean huge) swimming pools, a therapeutic hot mineral pool perfect for soaking in (if you don't mind pervasive sulfur fumes), a gorgeous equestrian center, golf, tennis, shuffleboard, basketball and soccer, a game room, arts and crafts - you name it. And it's all only an hour and a half away, in a setting so peacefully rural that it seems like a throwback to another century.

We have friends whose children are very happy taking long family car trips, spending hours looking at scenery, and stopping to tour historical sites and museums. I only wish my children could do things like that. Unfortunately, my two boys have enough energy for about eight kids and about as much patience for long hours in the car and visiting museums now as they did when they were 2-year-olds (i.e., none). That's why a resort with lots of options like this one was perfect for us. I got to take a trail ride and then lay out at the pool with my book, while my husband played tennis and the boys hit some golf balls around the driving range. The vacation really was great - once we got there.

Brad has been busy these days working on our subscription structure (nothing firmed up there to tell you about yet), but he's also come up with a handy gizmo that allows readers to print out specific items from our event calendar. Now, if you want to take all the information on an event along with you, or share it with a friend, you can go to our printable calendar page, check the item(s) you want to print for future reference, and - voila! Thanks, Brad.

Every year, I make a point to recommend the Jet Propulsion Laboratory's Open House, which is coming up May 14 and 15. We're really fortunate to have a cutting-edge institution like JPL in our backyards, and the powers-that-be there do a great job of opening up the gates once a year and letting us all see the exciting projects they're working on. Many of the exhibits and displays are set up with children in mind, so it's a terrific way to turn kids on to science and let those who are already science nuts get a first-hand look at real scientists and how they work. I've been reading about the history of science recently (I particularly recommend "The Big Bang" and "A Short History of Nearly Everything" - fascinating, funny books that are written for non-science, math-phobic types like myself) and I've been amazed to realize anew how many huge, important discoveries were made locally, at Mt. Wilson and Mt. Palomar Observatories, Caltech and JPL. We live in a crucible of scientific innovation and discovery, and yet I think most of us hardly realize it from day to day. Okay, commercial over: Take your family to the open house, get there early because it will be crowded and check the website for details on parking, shuttles and entry restrictions (you can't bring in coolers or large satchels, for instance). And, oh yes, have fun.

Before I left for vacation, Stephanie and I went over to the Pasadena location of Dream Dinners, where we got to make some dinners and meet franchise owner Stephanie Irey - who turns out to be an Orange Cat mom! We also got to meet corporate owner and company founder Stephanie Allen (I felt like I was swimming in a sea of Stephanies), who was down from Seattle for the location's grand opening. This concept is really cool. The space, a storefront on Colorado Boulevard just west of Hill Street, has been beautifully refurbished, so the atmosphere is more "luxury boutique" than "industrial kitchen."

With helpers alongside to encourage us and the recipes we'd chosen in advance all laid out for us, making our dinners was loads of fun. As my friend Stephanie commented, "This is like being on one of those cooking shows, where the ingredients are all laid out at your fingertips, and you just get to put them together!" This is the genius part - all the shopping, measuring and cleanup are done for you, so you can assemble your meals and then take home a dozen (or half a dozen), very generous-sized entrees that you can serve to your family over the rest of the month. (If the portions are too large for your family, you can divide them into two small freezer tins and eat them at different sittings.)

Of course, my family has already eaten most of the food and it filled up even my two teenaged sons, who have recently been complaining that I'm making their portions too small. ("You need to buy more food, Mom!") Obviously, I am still struggling with the mental sea change of going from cajoling two picky, light-eaters into trying to keep two ravenous boys full night and day. It's quite a challenge. The meals I fixed were delicious, but a little too "gourmet" for my younger son, who's still awfully picky. "There are a lot of different tastes in one bite!" he said, turning up his nose at my stuffed pork chops. My mistake was choosing slightly exotic recipes that I wouldn't normally cook myself; next month I'm going for safer entrees, like macaroni and cheese, deep-dish chicken pizza and swiss burgers. I know he'll like those.

Anyway, I highly recommend the program. If you get a group of friends to book their sessions at the same time as yours, you could have a really enjoyable evening. Franchise owner Stephanie tells me that while she's not licensed to serve adult beverages, it's perfectly okay for your group to bring along a bottle of wine to sample while you cook. My friend Stephanie and I are already conspiring to send our husbands over there one night, so they can slave over the monthly food preparation while we're at a movie. Would that not be divine?

Orange Cat mom Marsha sent out an SOS last issue, because her kids did not get in to a popular day camp and she was scrambling to find alternatives. We got a lot of great advice for her, including this resource link page from Westridge's summer opportunities fair, contributed by Lori. Linda wrote in to recommend Girl Scout camp, day camp programs at Pasadena Junior Theatre, St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Altadena and San Marino Recreation Department. Liz wrote to say that she has enrolled her daughter in Anderson Adventure Camp, which will be held at the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center and she recommended checking out local YMCAs, which typically have several different summer options. Mitzi recommends Pasadena's Kids Klub, which she says has "a wonderful summer camp." Enrollment for this summer is already well underway, so get signed up soon. And thanks, Linda, Liz, Lori and Mitzi, for your expertise!

Anybody else have questions? Here at The Orange Cat, we have answers! And if we don't, our amazing readers do. So send your problems in to Karen@theorangecat.org, and we'll keep the solutions coming your way. Have a great two weeks!

Dates and times subject to change; activities free unless noted; phone numbers provided if reservations are requested; please note age ranges on some activities. Also, see special printable [coupons] and [classifieds] exclusively for readers of The Orange Cat.

Saturday, April 30, 2005

Saturday Special: Monrovia Public Library 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Family program, "Something Smells Fishy," features fish tales, songs and a movie. We will also create a fish craft to take home! Ages 5 through 5th grade; refreshments will be served. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Armenian Storytime: Santa Catalina Branch Library 4 p.m. Join us for Saturday Stories, a monthly series of storytime programs offered in the Armenian language. This event is made possible through the partnership of the Pasadena Public Library & the Armenian Cultural Division of St. Gregory's A.M. Hovsepian School. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena.

Jazz Afternoon: Caltech 1-6 p.m. Jazz in a beautiful outdoor setting will feature the Caltech Jazz Bands directed by William Bing and the Nolan Shaheed Quintet. Bring a picnic and make an afternoon of it. Information: 626-395-4652. Gates Patio, near Dabney Lounge, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Twelfth Night: Haugh Performing Arts Center 2 p.m. Shakespeare's fanciful comedy about young love is presented in a special version designed especially for young audiences. $5. Citrus Little Theatre, Citrus College, 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kids use crinkle strips, stickers and crayons to create portable bug boxes, the perfect places to put their six-legged friends! Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Spring Festival and Silent Auction: Hastings Ranch Nursery School 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Game booths geared to children aged 2 through 8, barbequed hamburgers and hotdogs, a Jamba Juice stand, live music, balloon animals, a petting zoo and face painting. Along with all of the fun, a silent auction with many kid-centered items will be available. 3740 East Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, May 1, 2005

Family Concert: Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra 2 p.m. "Mutts, Movement & Mother Goose" features both the four-hand piano and complete orchestral versions of Ravel’s Mother Goose. The performance is part of a family concert series designed to capture the imagination of children and allow families to discover together that classical music is cool. Single concert tickets $14 or $8.50. Information: 213-622-7001, ext. 215. The Alex Theatre, 216 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale.

Monday, May 2, 2005

Cafeteria Rededication: James Madison Elementary School 10 a.m. to noon. Fifth-grade students will unveil original tile art and a mural depicting historical Pasadena at rededication ceremony for revitalized cafeteria. Renovation project was sponsored by Junior League of Pasadena's first-year members. 515 East Ashtabula St., Pasadena.

Wednesday, May 4, 2005

Stories in the Afternoon: Norton Simon Museum 4 p.m. Join an astronaut, farmer and architect through their work days as you listen to stories in front of Duvivier's "An Architect's Table." Free with museum admission of $8 adults, free under 18. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Thursday, May 5, 2005

Support Group: Mothers & More Pasadena 7:30 p.m. Mother's Day campaign meeting. Visitors welcome; adults only please. Polytechnic School, Boswell Library, Wilson Avenue just south of East California Boulevard.

Saturday, May 7, 2005

Saturday Afternoon Special: Arcadia Public Library 2:30 p.m. Come and share in wonderful stories and a related craft celebrating mothers. Designed for children ages 5 and up; parent should accompany children under 8. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Kids Music Club: University of LaVerne 10 a.m. Concert aimed at children and their families features the West African Drum Ensemble in concert. Founders Auditorium, Founders Hall #104, 1950 Third St., LaVerne.

Carnival: K.L. Carver Elementary School 10 a.m. to 3pm. The community is invited to join in the fun, with giant slide, food court, toddler zone, climbing wall, games and more. All proceeds benefit K.L. Carver PTA. Huntington Drive, east of San Gabriel Boulevard, San Marino.

International Fun Fair: Judson International School 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For information, call 626-398-2476. 1539 E. Howard St., Pasadena.

Cinema in the Park: Old Pasadena Management District 7:30 p.m. Classic movies will be shown under the stars every Saturday in May. Tonight: "The Princess Bride." Free tickets will be distributed by designated sponsor outlets (see website) or handed out 15 minutes before the show in waiting-list line, where admission is not guaranteed. Limited rental chair seating and refreshments available, picnics welcome. Levitt Pavilion, Memorial Park, Walnut and Raymond, Pasadena.

Saturday Series for Kids: Haugh Performing Arts Center 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. "Hansel & Gretel" will be performed twice by Théâtre Sans Fil (Theater Without Strings), one of the premier puppetry companies in the world. In their newest production, life-size puppets and black-light special effects combine with glorious operatic music and dialogue in English, to retell the classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale. $6. Ages 5 and up. Citrus College, 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kids can make a Mother’s Day picture frame to show Mom how special she is! Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Tuesday, May 10, 2005

Support Group: MOMS Club of Pasadena-North 10 a.m. General meeting of stay-at-home mom group features Tony Kienitz, author of "The Year I Ate My Yard." Tony will talk about how we can motivate our children to garden and excite them about eating the foods they grow. Information: 626-580-8514 or email: membershipnorth@pasadenamomsclub.com. Visitors and children welcome; group has no religious affiliation. Trinity Lutheran Church, 997 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Friday, May 13, 2005

Space-Star Stuff: Caltech 10 a.m. High-definition film asks the question, "Where did we all come from?" In a journey that takes us from the creation of the universe to the world we see around us today, Sam Neill explores the origins of life on Earth and comes to the surprising conclusion that we may all be aliens. A post-screening discussion will be led by Elizabeth Brooks, of Caltech's Center for Neuromorphic Systems Engineering. Event designed for school groups in grades 3 through 12. $5. Information: 626-395-6059. Beckman Auditorium, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Saturday, May 14, 2005

Open House: Pasadena Conservatory of Music 4 p.m. The public is invited to learn all about music study during this event. Following a brief overview, you'll be invited to attend departmental presentations, ask questions about instrumental instruction and classes and take a tour. Information/reservations: 626-683-3355. 100 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

Cinema in the Park: Old Pasadena Management District 7:30 p.m. Classic movies will be shown under the stars every Saturday in May. Tonight: "Roman Holiday." Free tickets will be distributed by designated sponsor outlets (see website) or handed out 15 minutes before the show in waiting-list line, where admission is not guaranteed. Limited rental chair seating and refreshments available, picnics welcome. Levitt Pavilion, Memorial Park, Walnut and Raymond, Pasadena.

Spring Concert: Los Angeles Children's Chorus 7 p.m. Concert "To Music," features all five of LACC's choirs singing two dozen works, including the world premiere of "Dona Nobis Pacem," an a cappella piece from composer Paul Gibson. $15. Information and tickets: 626-793-4231. First United Methodist Church, 500 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Open House: Jet Propulsion Laboratory 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Exhibits, demonstrations and hands-on activities for children highlight the laboratory's ongoing research and space exploration. Many scientists and engineers will be on hand to answer questions about how spacecraft are sent to other planets, how scientists utilize space technologies to explore Earth and how researchers are now searching for planets beyond the solar system. Visitors will see exhibits, displays, demonstrations and presentations about new technologies, solar system exploration, spacecraft communication and much more. Food and beverages will be available, along with space souvenirs and NASA and JPL merchandise. No backpacks or ice chests allowed, with the exception of small purses and diaper bags. Event will also be held Sunday, May 15. Information: 818-354-0112. 4800 Oak Grove Dr., Pasadena.

Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Children will have a blast making colorful play binoculars. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E.. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Register Early

Barks and Books: Pasadena Humane Society Be a special reading buddy to a real live dog! Elementary school-aged children can read a book about dogs to a gentle dog. This program is held several times a month; check website for times and reservations. Various Pasdena branch libraries.

Family Hike: Children's Nature Institute Walk designed especially for families with young children is scheduled to be held at 10 a.m. on Sunday, May 22. Registration is mandatory; call 310-998-1151 or email: naturewalks@childrensnatureinstitute.org. Millard Canyon, Altadena.

"Mister Rogers" Workshop: Alhambra Public Library Workshop for teachers and child care providers on conflict resolution features group discussion, video presentations and small group activities. Participants will learn how to use the Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood series to assist children to manage anger and learn self-control. Topics will include the stages of self-control, how to support children in their development and ways to help children control their feelings. Workshop scheduled for Saturday, May 7, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Reservations required: 626-570-3217. 410 W. Main St., Alhambra.

Wonderful Wednesdays: Alhambra Public Library Professional storytellers from "We Tell Stories" will share their love of theater, mythology and folklore on May 11 at 7 p.m. "A Feast From the East" features cultural tales from India, China, Japan, the Philippines, Thailand, Korea and Iran. The program will be both educational and fun, and is suitable for children of all ages. Reservations: 626-570-3215. 410 W. Main St., Alhambra.

Mother's Day: Descanso Gardens Brunch will be served by Patina in the Rose Pavilion at 10, 11:30, 1 and 2:30. Afternoon outdoor concerts will also be presented, along with a geranium show and sale at Van de Kamp Hall. Saturday, May 7 and Sunday, May 8. Adults $42; kids $25. Reservations required by May 2: 818-790-3663. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge.

Night Walk: Descanso Gardens Anyone curious about what lies behind the garden gates on a crisp spring night should join Docent Jim Jackson on May 6 from 7 to 9 p.m. for a walking tour featuring nocturnal animals and insects, the moon reflected on the water and the soft drone of crickets. Jackson will talk about Descanso’s history, facts and lore. Participants must be 12 or older, wear sensible shoes, bring a jacket and a flashlight. $13. Reservations: 818-949-7980. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge.

Preschool Program: Huntington Library "Journey to Japan" is a program exploring the magical world of Japan through stories, songs, crafts and other activities. For parents and children ages 3-5. Program will be held Wednesdays May 4 through May 25, 10:30 a.m. to noon. $65. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino.

Children’s Art Series: The Huntington Library Freehand drawing class will be held Thursdays from 4-5:15 p.m. from May 12 through June 30. Children and teens learn the art of freehand drawing in pencil and charcoal in this class led by artists Victor and Maria Amor. Ages 11 and up. $225, plus $20 materials fee. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino.

Children’s Workshop: The Huntington Library Youngsters will be transported to the "Land of the Rising Sun" as they explore the Japanese Garden, go on a cultural scavenger hunt, learn some Japanese words and phrases and create a traditional craft. Workshop "Jazzed about Japan" will be held Saturday, May 14, from 9-11:30 a.m. Ages 7 and up. $15. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino.

Continuing Activities

Montrose Harvest Market: Weekly farmer's market includes giant slide, obstacle course bouncer and 25-foot portable rock climbing wall. Sundays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Information: 818-957-3809. Montrose Shopping Park, Honolulu Ave. and Ocean View Blvd, Montrose.

Monrovia Public Library "Time for Twos" is an introductory storytime for toddlers and their parents held Tuesdays and Fridays, 10:45 to 11:15 a.m. Activities include stories, songs, flannel tales and a small creative project. "Munchkin Storytime" is offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:45 to 11:30 a.m. for children 3-5. The half-hour program includes stories, songs, flannel tales and incentive stickers. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Sierra Madre Public Library: Two Preschool story hours are held each week in the Children's Room. Mondays at 10 a.m., and Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Cathy Ryne, children's librarian, tells stories, sings songs, and organizes craft projects. 626-355-7186. 440 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

Excellence in Education Home school park day; bring lunch, toys, games, sports equipment. Mondays at noon. Eisenhower Park, Colorado Blvd at Second St., Arcadia..

Monrovia Reads: Hour-long story times include crafts, stories, songs and fingerplay. Ages 0-5 with parents or caretakers. Tuesdays 10 a.m., All Nations Church, 1948 S. Peck Road; Thursdays 10 a.m., Boys and Girls Club, 600 S. Shamrock Ave., Monrovia.

MOMS Club of Pasadena-North Support group for stay-at-home moms meets regularly for all-member meetings, speakers, interest groups, playdates and much more. Serving Pasadena (north of 210 fwy) and Altadena. For more information please e-mail: membershipnorth@pasadenamomsclub.com .

MOMS Club of LaVerne Support group meets regularly for play dates, park days, storytimes, coffees and field trips. Various locations; check online calendar for dates, times. .

Jungle Gym Rock Climbing: Toddler and children's climbing classes, homeschool groups, competitive climbing and winter adventure camp offered at gym designed for kids 14 months to 14 years. Birthday parties and family nights also available. Information: 626-446-5014. 305 N. Santa Anita Blvd., Arcadia.

Adventuring Preschool Playgroup: We are moms of preschoolers in the San Gabriel Valley, exploring different free museums, parks and taking field trips together. We meet Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Call Michelle for information: 626-335-3042 or email: butlig@integrity.com .

Mt. San Antonio College International marketplace is held every Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., featuring arts and crafts, antiques and certified farmer's market. Parking and admission is free. Stadium parking lot, off Temple Avenue, just west of Cal Poly.

Huntington Hospital: Perinatal Health Education department offers ongoing classes and support groups for new moms, including breastfeeding Thursdays 10 to 11:30 a.m.; Mommy & Me Tuesdays 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Postnatal Fitness Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 5:45 to 6 p.m.; Baby & Me; infant care; and infant/child CPR. Some classes involve fees. Information and registration: 626-397-8768. .

Monrovia Family Festival: 5 to 9 p.m. Fridays. Games, food, rides, shopping and farmer's market. Myrtle Ave south of Foothill Blvd, Monrovia.

MOMS Club of Covina & West Covina Support group meets reularly for playdates, walking groups, parties for stay-at-home moms or part-time working moms seeking day time activities for children of all ages. Serves mothers in Covina, West Covina, Azusa and Irwindale. New member meetings held at 10:30 a.m. on the last Tuesday of every month. Information: email membership@momsclubcovina.com Covina Library, 234 N. Second Ave., Covina.

Vroman's Book Store: 10 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays. Storytime with Mr. Steve features contemporary and classic tales read aloud. Ages 2 to 8. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Eaton Canyon Nature Center Family nature walk held every Saturday morning, weather permitting, 9 to 11 a.m. Walking shoes, sunscreen, water, hats are recommended for this guided walk geared toward families with small children. Meet in front of the building. 626-398-5420. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Pasadena Central Library and its branches offer 15 storytimes each week, for infants through age 8. All programs are free, some require pre-registration. Check website for schedules. .

Pasadena Central Library: Short preschool videos shown every Friday at 10 a.m. in the Donald R. Wright Auditorium. Central Library, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

The Huntington Library Nature activities are scheduled on Saturdays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Kids of all ages can explore the world of nature at hands-on plant discovery carts located at the Lily Ponds, Desert Garden and Japanese Garden. Older kids can examine plant cross-sections under a microscope, learn how plants and animals use camouflage, compare soil and water samples, or look for local wildlife using a field guide. Younger children can make leaf rubbings, examine seed pods, create origami, or experience "a bug’s life" through insect puppet play. On the first Saturday of each month, nature crafts are also offered near the entrance pavilion. No reservations required; free with museum admission. $15 adults, $12 seniors (65+), $10 students (ages 12-18 or with student I.D.), $6 for youth (ages 5-11), free for children under 5. Information: 626-405-2100. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Glendora Public Library PJ family story time at 7 p.m. each Wednesday offers a half hour of magical stories, songs and fingerplays. A great alternative to TV! Information: 626-852-4891. Children's Room, 140 S. Glendora Ave., Glendora.

South Pasadena Public Library: Family Storytime Tuesdays 7:30 to 8 p.m.; Pajama Storytime: For ages 3-5, Wednesdays 7 to 7:30 p.m.; Preschool Storytime: For ages 3-5, Thursdays 10:30 to 11 a.m.; Toddler Storytimes: For ages 1-2, Fridays 10:30 to 10:50 a.m.; For ages 2-3 Fridays 11 to 11:20 a.m. Grandparents Read-Aloud: Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3 to 5 p.m. Register at 626-403-7358. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

Altadena Public Library: Preschool storytime Wednesdays 11 a.m. 626-798-0833. 600 E. Mariposa Ave., Altadena.

San Marino Public Library: Weekly preschool story time for 3- to 5-year-olds offered on Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; Tuesdays at 3:30 for 5- to 8-year-olds. Call 626-300-0777 to register. 1890 Huntington Dr., San Marino.

Mrs. Nelson's Storytimes: Preschool storytime, for ages 2-5 and parents, Tuesdays 10 a.m. PJ Storytime Fridays at 6 p.m. All ages welcome Saturdays at 11 a.m. Register: 909-599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

San Dimas Public Library: Preschool story time is held every Friday at 11 a.m. 145 N. Walnut Ave., San Dimas.

Terrific Twosomes Mothers of Multiples: San Gabriel Valley-based, non-profit support organization exists as a forum for parents of twins, triplets, quadruplets and higher multipes to come together to exchange everything from advice to outgrown baby clothing! We meet on the second Tuesday evening of each month; see website for details on meeting place and time. .

Healthy Eating Lifestyle Program: Ongoing, five-session nutritional and exercise workshop is designed to help families with kids who are at risk for being overweight. Classes include smart shopping tips, family meal planning advice, creating simple recipes, games, parties and activities for kids aged 5 to 12 and their entire families. Sessions held on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon, and Monday and Tuesday nights from 6 to 8 p.m. Families must register and complete medical screening in order to attend. Contact health educator Kam Miller at 626-397-3660 or via email: healthy.eating@huntingtonhospital.com Huntington Hospital, 100 W. California Blvd., Pasadena.

The Bunny Museum: See the world's largest collection of bunnies and bunny artifacts, with more than 20,000 items on display. Private home is open for tours by appointment every day of the year. No appointment needed on most holidays. Call for schedule: 626-798-8848. 1933 Jefferson Dr., Pasadena.

MOMS Club of San Dimas: Support group meets regularly for play dates, park days, storytimes, coffees and field trips. Various locations; check online calendar for dates, times. .

Blue Chair Children's Books Toddler storytime Tuesdays at 11 a.m.; afterschool storytime Thursdays, 3:30 p.m.; special events every Friday night, check website for details. 177 N. Glendora Ave., Glendora.

Gymboree: Play, music and art classes offered on an ongoing basis. Free trial classes for new families. Information on classes: 626-445-1122; parties: 626-445-5161. 518 W. Huntington Dr., Monrovia.

Parents Without Partners Covina Valley chapter of single-parent group holds orientation meeting and dance on the second Friday of each month, 7:30 p.m. to midnight. Call for information and location: 626-294-3211. .

Sierra Madre Moms Club Support group for mothers and their kids meets every fourth Wednesday from noon to 1:30 p.m., all welcome. The group also sponsors play groups and park dates. Serves residents of Sierra Madre, Monrovia, Arcadia, Temple City and Duarte. Information: email Paulimorin@earthlink.net Sierra Madre Community Center, 611 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

Hurst Ranch: Living history ranch is open to the public on the second Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Information: 626-813-0116. 1227 S. Orange Ave., West Covina.

MOMS Club of Pasadena Support group for stay-at-home moms meets regularly for all-member meetings, speakers, interest groups, playdates and much more. Serving Pasadena, South Pasadena, San Marino and Ahambra. For more information please e-mail: membershipvp@pasadenamomsclub.com .

Barnes & Noble: Lil' Critter Stroller Club meets for stories, ABCs and songs every Wednesday and Friday at 10:30 a.m. For ages 6 months to 2 years. Information: 626-585-0362. 111 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

West Covina Library: Homework help is offered on a walk-in basis, free of charge, Monday through Thursday from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. Helpers assist youngsters in grades 1 through 8 with homework questions, homework strategies and study skills. Help is available in all subjects, including math. Tutoring is available on Saturdays by appointments. Storytimes are held Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. for the whole family and on Fridays at 10 a.m. for preschoolers. 1601 West Covina Parkway, West Covina.

Kidspace Children's Museum: Where else can kids dig, learn about fossils and the evolution of earthquakes, ride trikes and climb 40 feet into the air? Museum exhibits highlight the arts, sciences and humanities in a manner that promotes exploration, investigation and expression. Open 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day. Admission: $8 for adults and children; under 1 free. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

La Canada Farmer's Market: Held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Beulan Street at Foothill Boulevard., La Canada.

Kids Island Parenting classes, infant play area, arts and crafts, music and dance studios, open play times and children's parties are offered at this indoor center for children six months to six years. Call for information/admission prices: 626-447-8003. 1313 S. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Follow The Rainbow: 3,000-square-foot indoor playground has things to climb on, bounce on, dig in and play with. A safe, fun environment for young children with quieter room for reading or board and card games provided for older children. Parents can play with their kids, stand back and guide them or sit and relax in view of all the action. Open 7 days, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Daily admission: $7, monthly $30, annual pass $105. Birthday parties start at $300. 626-794-0925. 2525 N. Lake Ave., Altadena.

Alhambra Farmer's Market: Certified Farmers' Market is held 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Sunday. Monterey Street, Alhambra.

Are you aware of a great event or venue that we're not listing? If so, please let us know so we can include it in the next Orange Cat. Email: karen@theorangecat.org.

...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................

| Visit us online |

© Copyright 2005, KBN Publishing Inc., 332 N. Magnolia Ave., Monrovia, CA 91016

...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................