April 20, 2007

Number 113

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

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

The Back Fence

Upcoming Events

Our Sponsors

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

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

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

By Dorothy Reinhold,
Guest Columnist

There is nothing like having a sick kid, and not believing him or her, to make you feel like a failure as a mother.

My daughter was whining one morning about not feeling well. I thought she wanted to stay home because she imagined she might get to watch TV or have fun running errands with me. My response: "Well, if you're so sick that you have to stay home from school, we aren't going to watch TV or do anything fun. It's going to be really b-o-o-o-ring around the house. You'll need to take a nap."

"Nap," as you know, is code for "Run for your life" to any kid older than three. My daughter was seven at the time, so I felt pretty safe making that veiled threat.

Still, she insisted that she didn't feel well. I felt her forehead, took her temperature: Nothing. I made the decision that she'd better buck up and get on that bus and stop bellyaching. I wasn't buying the "sick" routine.

Oh boy. You know how this is going to end, don't you? An hour later, the school nurse was on the phone telling me to speed up to school because my daughter was in the office with a 102-degree temperature. As it turned out, the only smart decision I made that morning was to bring a plastic bowl with me: On the way home in the car, she threw up.

A friend of mine has a similar story. Her 11-year-old fifth-grader had been complaining that his nose was stuffy and he had pressure in his head. Oh yes, he was in the midst of taking state tests. Chin up, buddy, and quit yer whinin'! School nurse again, 40 minutes later, with a spiking fever and the sudden onset of flu.

Need more to make yourself feel better about your own mothering mishaps? Okay, how about this mom, whose fourth-grade son had been complaining for a few days that he didn't feel well. No temperature, and mom thought he was probably okay. She's a work-outside-the-home mom and jokes that her kids have to be practically dying before they get to skip school. She sent the little prince to school, telling him to "breathe the fresh air, it will make you feel better."

Imagine how she felt when the school nurse called her at work and told her to come pick him up. He had a 102-degree fever that was probably pneumonia! A trip to the doctor confirmed it: He did have pneumonia, was out of school for a week, and she, of course, had to stay home with him anyway.

Can you take a disgusting story? Finish breakfast before you read this one. "Josh would often wake in the night or early morning and come into our room," one mommy friend confessed. "A couple of days before this incident, we told him ‘No coming into our room before 6:30!' At 4:30 a.m., he comes to the door and knocks: "I don't feel good.' We yell at him to go back to bed. About 10 seconds later we hear vomiting, jump out of bed and at our feet is our little boy" turned into something out of The Exorcist.

One mom listening to that stomach-churning anecdote said, "At least you didn't have to drive 100 miles to pick up your child you sent on a band trip! She was prone to hypochondria and I insisted that she go" anyway.

Nope, I've never done that, but it's the type of thing I probably would do, as I tend to insist that my kids honor their commitments. "Reinholds don't quit," I found myself telling my daughter one night. She was mightily unhappy about continuing in an activity that was more drudgery than fun. "We finish what we started, and we don't let down our group or our team." I said it with confidence, but inside I wondered whether that was just old-school thinking and I ought to join the 21st century.

One more medical nightmare, just to put the capper on: One mom friend tells this torturous tale on herself. Her son woke up and said that his legs and hips hurt. He even sort of crawled downstairs. Since he was having a hard time in school at the time, she thought he was faking. She made him walk down to the bus stop and go to school. Not even a half hour later, she got a call from the school nurse saying that her son's classmates were having to hold him up in the hallway. He was saying he couldn't walk.

She still didn't really believe him, so she took him to the doctor, who immediately sent him to the emergency room. The kid had a dislocated hip! The only good part of that story is that the hip popped back into place on its own. After many tests, the cause was determined - not a bone disease or hip dysplasia, but just a freak occurrence in his sleep.

I put my arm around the mom who told that story. There is no way in this lifetime that she is going to stop beating herself up over that mistake. No one could possibly say anything to her that would worsen her feelings. They are already as low as they can be.

Then another mom chimed in with some sage advice: "I'd be lucky if that was the worst I'd ever done...wait until he becomes a teenager! Honey, if this is the first time you feel like a terrible mother, wait until the teen years and then the adult years, and then all of a sudden everything turns around. Finally, you'll both see that there is no such thing as a terrible mother."

Obviously excluding abuse, neglect or other crimes, she is no doubt right.

We've all been there, we're all still there, and there's nothing gained by wallowing in guilt over it. Embrace your second-guessing! Honor your stumbles! Wear your mistakes like a proud badge! Go ahead and err, and then move on to the next dilemma.

Would you like to join our club? Tell us your own story. Come on...it feels good to confess! Let go of your shame and join us in tales of mothering mishaps.

Dorothy Reinhold practices perfect mothering in Malibu with her husband and two flawless children. You may reach her at DReinhold@aol.com

Okay [Karen here now], I'll be the first to chime in, but I'm afraid I have to disappoint. My kids have always been disgustingly healthy, and strangely conscientious about not missing school. There have even been school years when they have had perfect attendance. I honestly can't say that I remember them trying to "play possum," so I don't think I ever sent them off to school mistakenly. (They've just confirmed my memory - nope, I'm not guilty!)

On the few days a year they wake up complaining that they don't feel well, it's quite obvious that they are really sick, so I've learned not to argue with them. I will confess that it took me a few years to figure out these stoic sons of mine. That's because I was a total drama queen myself, and I knew how to play my mother like a fine stringed instrument! I'd be afraid to add up all the "sick" days I spent happily lounging in front of the television in my p.j.'s, feeling perfectly fine. Every time I did it, my mother would swear she'd never let me get away with it again ... until the next time rolled around. Oh, the shame!

I'm not just chiming in here to tout my perfect mothering and 'fess up to my flawed childhood character, however. I also want to announce that one of our long-time sponsors, Christine Yap, is selling her indoor children's playground, Arcadia-based Kids Island.

"Kids Island would be great for moms who want a side business," Christine wrote. She is returning to Taiwan for personal reasons and can no longer run the indoor playground, which hosts birthday parties (booked until July) and offers ballet, music, arts and crafts and other classes.

If you're interested in purchasing this business, contact Christine at 626-447-8003 or via email at kidsisland@sbcglobal.net. Full disclosure: If someone from The Orange Cat buys Kids Island, we may get a compensation for the referral. Hope you and yours are well - let me know if I can answer a question, solve a problem, or help you network with other moms. Karen@theorangecat.org.

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 our special printable calendar, especially for readers of The Orange Cat.

Saturday, April 21, 2007

Family Festival: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Capture the spirit of Earth Day by looking at paintings by 20th-century artists, then create a Cubist-inspired collage using cast-off materials in a workshop led by the organization Trash 4 Teaching. Free with museum admission. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Shakespeare Festival: Huntington Library 10:30 a.m. All the world really is a stage as actors from Shakespeare at Play and the Guild of St. George perform scenes from the Bards comedies and tragedies in different settings throughout the gardens. The day long festival will include key scenes from The Taming of the Shrew, Much Ado About Nothing, A Midsummer Nights Dream, Hamlet, The Comedy of Errors, and many more. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Butterfly Release: Kidspace Museum 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Celebrate the beauty of butterflies and nature as we release Painted Lady butterflies reared in our Nature Exchange Nursery into the gardens of Kidspace. The Grand Butterfly Release features Flutter-By the Butterfly, as she helps children create their own butterfly wings, teaches them the Pupa Freeze Dance, and How to Eat like a Caterpillar. This event culminates with the Butterfly Release at 2 p.m. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Dazzling Fish: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children "reel in" tons of fun as they make and decorate fishy friends. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Batter Up: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 2 p.m. Enjoy baseball stories and make a frame for a baseball picture or favorite baseball card. Ages 3 and up. $2. Call (909) 599-4558 to register. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Earth Day: West Covina Farmers Market 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Recycling products, booths, games, and activities for everyone. Fashion Parkway and West Covina Parkway.

Graphic Novels Group: Vromans Bookstore 2 p.m. Join Steve Ross for an open discussion of graphic novels. Bring a favorite with you to share with the rest of the group. Ages 9-14. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Magic Show: San Marino Public Library 2 p.m. Come celebrate National Book Week with Magic Monique and her family-friendly magic show. 1800 Huntington Dr., San Marino.

Jazz Festival: Caltech 2 p.m. Annual jazz celebration will feature four musical groups and will be held outdoors, in the Gates Library patio behind the Parsons-Gates Hall of Administration. Bring a blanket and food; perfect for all ages. Information: 626-395-4652. 320 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Book Fair: West Covina Civic Center 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. West Covina Council PTA will hold its book fair. 1444 W. Garvey Ave., West Covina.

Sunday, April 22, 2007

Young Adult Group: Vromans Bookstore 6 p.m. Join Amanda Barillas to discuss "Looking for Alaska," by John Green. Ages 12-17. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Wednesday, April 25, 2007

Author Event: Vromans Bookstore 10:30 a.m. Greg Foley, the creative director at Visionaire and V magazine, discusses and signs, "Thank You, Bear." The children's story is part fable, part mystery and perfect for even the youngest reader. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Friday, April 27, 2007

Mythili Prakash and Samputu & Ingeli CalTech Beckman Auditorium 8 p.m. Prepare for an evening of remarkable artistry from these two preeminent world performers! Mythili Prakash is a name to reckon with the in the world of Bharata Natyam, and Jean Paul Samputu has established himself as one of the most prominent African artists on the world stage. $25, $21, $17 / $10 youth 332 South Michigan Avenue.

Enemy Pie: Kidspace Museum 11:30 a.m. Learn how to turn a best enemy into a best friend, with Derek Munson, author of "Enemy Pie." Derek and Kidspace Crew member, Busy Buzzy Bee, will lead children in such activities as the Enemy Pie Experiment. Later Derek will autograph "Enemy Pie," a Reading Rainbow and Children’s Choice Award-nominated book. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

My Hollywood Life: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 4 p.m. Author Jen Calonita shares "The Secrets of My Hollywood Life: On Location," a book for young adults about fame and celebrity. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Saturday, April 28, 2007

Start a Business: Kidspace Museum 11:30 a.m. The Kidspace Crew starts a business. Watch the antics as they sing songs and learn how to succeed by working together. This performance, celebrating The Week of the Young Child, will be followed by a parade for young children and their families. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Collage Frame: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Display a photo in a frame that kids decorate with flowers, happy faces, hearts, and more! 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Origami Day: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 2 p.m. We will be reading a book on origami and making some origami. For kids 8 and up. Fee is $2.00. Call (909) 599-4558 to register. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Cherry Blossom Festival: West Covina Civic Center 12 p.m. - 6 p.m. Festival highlights include cultural demonstrations, exhibits, a tea ceremony, martial arts, taiko (Japanese drums), odori (Japanese folk dancing), ikebana (flower arrangement) and more. 1444 W. Garvey Ave., West Covina.

Relay for Life, Monrovia: American Cancer Society 11 a.m. This is an overnight, family-friendly fundraising event that aims to bring together those who have been touched by cancer. Funds raised support cancer research, information, education advocacy and services. Teams will camp out overnight, take turns walking or running laps, participate in a tribute to cancer survivors and hold an evening luminaria ceremony honoring those who have fought the disease. To join a team: call Mohna at 626-359-4114. Monrovia Library Park, 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Saturday Series for Kids: Haugh Performing Arts Center, Citrus College 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Conjurors, illusionists and prestidigitators from around the world combine their talents to present this fast-paced parade of magic especially for children of all ages. $6. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

Sunday, April 29, 2007

Stories in the Afternoon: Norton Simon Museum 2 p.m. Enjoy tales about rainy days and windy nights, then make a rain stick in front of Nolde's 'The Sea I,' 1912. Free with museum admission. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Monday, April 30, 2007

Bob Barner: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 9:30 a.m. Author and illustrator Bob Barner will present his newest title, "Big is Big and Little, Little." Barner is also the author of "Dem Bones" and "Dinosaur Bones." For ages 4 to 8. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Tuesday, May 1, 2007

Scholastic Book Fair: Kidspace Museum Through May 6. Purchase discount children's books. Plus, story times throughout the week with special, fuzzy, literary guests to help spark a love of reading. Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Wednesday, May 2, 2007

Suni Paz: Santa Catalina Library 3:30 p.m. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Suni Paz. Including an afternoon of children's songs and folk music sung in English and Spanish. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena.

Friday, May 4, 2007

Costume Party: Sierra Madre Public Library 4:30 p.m. Sierra Madre’s Centennial One Book, One City 2007 program hosts an opening event to celebrate "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," by L. Frank Baum. Light refreshments provided; raffle prizes for those in costumes. Memorial Park Bandshell, Sierra Madre.

Atherton: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 3:30 p.m. Patrick Carman will be present the first book of his new trilogy, "Atherton." 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Saturday, May 5, 2007

Claremont Folk Festival: The Folk Music Center 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bring the family for live folk music, musical workshops, a craft fair and international cuisine. Leading up to Saturday's festival is a live performance by Ben Harper, with special guest, The Nightwatchman-Tom Morello on Friday May 4th at Bridges Auditorium on the Pomona College Campus in Claremont. Information: 909-624-1232. Sycamore Elementary School, Claremont..

Children’s Day: Huntington Library 1 p.m. Preschool students in colorful kimonos will sing songs from Japan in celebration of Children’s Day. Origami crafts and storytelling will round out this event, suitable for young children. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Spicy Stories: Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. A special Cinco de Mayo storytime with a Latin flavor (for ages 3-5). In the Children's Room. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Cinco de Mayo: Kidspace Museum Journey through the arts, music, and culture of Mexico. The One Wee World Ambassadors will offer workshops at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Children can dance, join a mariachi band, and make a piñata. Fifty free workshop tickets will be available at the Ticket Booth beginning the morning of May 5. From 1-2 p.m. Aztec and folklorico dancers will perform in Stone Hollow Amphitheater. Also, make Mexican hot chocolate and enjoy Mexican-themed art. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Shakers: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Kids will shake up a fun fiesta with Cinco de Mayo shaker instruments they make themselves. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Register Early

Sunday, April 22, 2007

Worm Workshop: L.A. County Arboretum 2-4 p.m. Celebrate Earth Day by assembling a worm bin. Hands-on workshop teaches families and individuals to contribute to household recycling efforts. You will learn all you need to know to successfully maintain a vermicompost bin, and will actually assemble a bin, complete with red wiggler worms and instructions to take home. $25 per family, includes supplies. Reservations required: 626-821-4623, or email Tiffany.Carr@arboretum.org. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Saturday, May 5, 2007

Desert Drawing: Huntington Library 9 a.m. Artist workshop led by Mike Wiesmeier hopes kids will gain mastery in drawing techniques, taking inspiration from The Huntington’s 100-year-old desert garden. Ages 7 and up, with one adult. $25. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Saturday, May 12, 2007

Mother’s Day Brunches: Descanso Gardens 9 a.m. Special Mother’s Day brunches Saturday, May 12, and Sunday, May 13, give families a chance to surround their favorite women with thousands of flowers. $42 adults; $15 children 4 to 10; free children 3 and younger. Reservations required by Monday, May 8: 818-790-3663. 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge.

Pumpkin Growing: Huntington Library 11 a.m. Ever wonder how a giant pumpkin gets so big? Learn what it takes to grow one at home in this presentation by master gardener Stuart Shim of the U.C. Cooperative Extension. Ages 5 and up, with one adult. Adult $15; child $10. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Family Adventures: L.A. County Arboretum 2-4 p.m. Mother’s Day program offers a hike to our herb garden, followed by learning to use plants there to make tea. $20 per family. Registration: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Friday, May 18, 2007

Chorus Auditions: Pasadena Presbyterian Church Los Angeles Children’s Chorus, considered one of the nation’s leading children’s choirs, is holding auditions for boys and girls ages 8-12 from May 18 through 21, 2007. Previous singing experience and preparation are not necessary; children audition in groups of five. The program trains children who may not have previous singing experience, but who are dedicated to achieving excellence in vocal technique, choral singing and classical music. Successful candidates will demonstrate the ability to match tone, follow instructions, and thrive in a supportive, but structured learning environment. Appointments: call Allison Jolley at 626-793-4231. 585 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Friday, May 25, 2007

Nightwalk: Descanso Gardens 7:15 p.m. Walk with docent Jim Jackson into the nightlife enjoyed by Descanso’s nocturnal animals and insects. Jackson will also share the Gardens’ history. Participants must be at least 12 years old and should wear sensible shoes and bring a jacket and flashlight. $15. Registration: 818-949-7980. 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge.

Continuing Activities

Sunday

Rock Rose Art Gallery: Family drum circle is held 12:30-1:30 p.m. Donations requested. 4108 N. Figueroa St., Highland Park.

L.A. County Arboretum: Arboretum Bookworms, for ages 3-8, meets on the third Sunday of every month from 2-3 p.m. Children explore the arboretum and its library, enjoy plant and nature tales and make and take crafts. Meet at the main entrance. Free with admission of $7 adults; $2.50 children 5-12; free children 4 and under. Information: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Hill Avenue Branch Library: 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. This Spanish playgroup meets every Sunday and provides Spanish literacy for Spanish-speaking children. 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

Monday

Allendale Branch Library: Family videos, suitable for school-age children, are shown on Mondays from 2 to 3:30 p.m. 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena.

Pacific Theatres: Moms, dads and caregivers, here’s your chance to see a first run adult-themed movie...with your baby! No one will mind if your baby cries, everyone will have a baby and all babies cry. 11 a.m., film title changes weekly. Paseo Colorado, Pasadena.

Tuesday

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. .

Sierra Madre Moms Club Support group for mothers and their kids meets every fourth Tuesday from 12-1:30 p.m., all welcome. The group also sponsors play groups, family parties and park dates. Serves residents of Sierra Madre and Temple City. We also are currently enrolling residents of Arcadia with the understanding that they will form their own chapter in June 2007. Information: email momsclubofsierramadre@yahoo.com. Sierra Madre Community Center, 611 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

Monrovia Public Library Best Books is a weekly program for elementary-aged youth, held Tuesdays in November from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Students will take a magical journey through an exciting book, with a librarian reading a chapter or two aloud, then offering a snack, followed by a bit more reading. Youth are invited to bring copies of their own books to read along. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Altadena MOMS Club: Support group for stay-at-home moms meets the third Tuesday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon. Our chapter offers play groups, a hiking group, a book group, monthly meetings and a great network of moms that live in Altadena. Please contact Talin Dikranian at 626-844-7916 or membership@altadenamomsclub.com for more information. Farnsworth Park Community Center, Altadena.

Wednesday

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.

Alhambra Public Library Preschool Story Time 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Featuring stories, finger plays, songs and puppets. For kids, ages 3 to 5. Then, at 7 p.m., Family Story Time, for ages 3 to 10. Stories, finger plays, songs, films and crafts. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

San Dimas Farmers Market Come and experience a night full of live music and dancing every Wednesday, beginning at 4:30 p.m. 245 E. Bonita Ave. Civic Center Park.

Thursday

Villa Parke Community Center Library 4:30 p.m. Family films, rated G and PG, are shown on Thursdays. 363 E. Villa Street, Pasadena.

Mothers and More Pasadena: Support group meets regularly for moms-only coffees and lunches focused on career planning, transitions to paid work and challenges or opportunities with current employment. Chapter meetings occur first and third Thursdays of the month at 7:30 p.m. and are open to visitors. Group also sponsors Moms’ Nights Out, book club and playgroups. Information: mothersandmore@onebox.com, or 866-206-9068, x3921. Wild Oats Natural Marketplace, conference room, 603 S. Lake Ave. Pasadena.

Mocha Moms: The Pasadena Chapter of Mocha Moms is a nonprofit organization for mothers of color in the San Gabriel Valley. We meet weekly for playgroups, bi-weekly for "moms only" events and other planned activities. Chapter meetings are open to newcomers on the first Thursday of every month at 7:30 p.m. For more information and location, visit website or email: pasadenamocha@yahoo.com .

Friday

Monrovia Winter Market: 5-8 p.m. Street fair and certified farmer's market, with craft booths, kiddie rides, live music, food and family fun. Myrtle and Olive avenues, Monrovia.

Villa Parke Community Center Library 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Fridays. Board Games are placed out on tables for everyone to play with. For all ages. 363 E. Villa Street, Pasadena.

Fibromyalgia Support Group: A free support-and-information group for fibromyalgia sufferers and their families meets every third Friday of the month, 5-6:30 p.m. Reservations required. The group facilitator, Charles Yarborough, is a licensed acupuncturist specializing in pain syndromes. Information: 626-319-8725. 1028 N. Lake Ave. Suite 108 Pasadena.

Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Preschool films. A 30-minute program with picture book stories on the big screen for ages 3-5. Weekly on Friday. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Pasadena Laughter Club: Free group meets each Friday from 6-7 p.m. Families invited, no age restriction. The only condition for participation is the willingness to laugh for no reason. Information: info@laughteryoga.us or 626-755-5999. Yoga Kingdom Sanctuary, 553 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena.

Alhambra Public Library 10:30 a.m. Toddler Story Time, for ages 12 to 24 months. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

Saturday

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.

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.

Rock Rose Art Gallery: MOTHEREAD/FATHEREAD, L.A. is held from 10-11:30 a.m. This is a 10-week family reading program based on a simple idea: When families read together, remarkable things happen. Family ties are strengthened. Parents become reading role models for their children. Children become better readers and better learners. Information: Rosamaria Marquez, 323-222-4740. 4108 N. Figueroa St., Highland Park.

Alhambra Public Library 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., Saturdays. Story Time for children of all ages. Provided by volunteer story readers. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

Stone Center for Children's Books Stories and crafts are open for kids of all ages most Saturdays from 10 to 11 a.m. Information: 909-607-3670. Claremont Graduate University, 740 N. College Ave., Claremont.

Other

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 the 210 Freeway. For more information please e-mail: membershipnorth@pasadenamomsclub.com .

South Pasadena Strings: Afterschool music, art and foreign language classes for preschoolers and kindergartners. For all ages, group and private lesson in violin, viola, cello, guitar, piano, voice. Award-winning youth orchestras. For more information, email stringsprogram@aol.com, or call 626/403-4611. South Pasadena.

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. .

MamaMia Fitness Variety of yoga and fitness classes are held outdoors for all fitness levels. Babies of all ages attend class and are incorporated into the workout. We also organize play dates, "Mommy's Morning Out" and field trips. Rose Bowl, Brookside Park, 360 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

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

Glendora Public Library Story times for kids 3-5 are held Tuesdays and Wednesday, 10:30-11 a.m.; infants and toddlers Thursdays 10:30-10:45 a.m. 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.

Pasadena Central Library Gentle, affectionate dogs from the Pasadena Humane Society love it when children read to them. At the Central Library and various branch libraries. See library calendar for details. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

San Marino Public Library: Weekly preschool story time for 3- to 5-year-olds offered on Thursdays at 12:30 p.m.; 2-year-olds Mondays at 10 a.m. Children of all ages are invited to practice their reading with the Barks and Books program on the third Saturday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Information and registration: 626-300-0777. 1800 Huntington Dr., San Marino.

Mrs. Nelson's Storytimes: Pajama Storytime Fridays at 6-7 p.m. Also, Saturday storytime is from 11 a.m. to noon. Preschool Storytime and crafts is Tuesday 10-11 a.m. Register: 909-599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

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. .

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.

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@momsclubpasadena.com .

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.

Child Care Information Service: Referrals to licensed child care providers are available to all families, regardless of income. Referrals are random, based on geographic area, ages of the children and availability of child care spaces. Cities served are Altadena, Arcadia, Duarte, La Canada, Monrovia, Sierra Madre, South Pasadena, Pasadena and San Marino. .

Kids Island Parenting classes, parent's night out program, 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 eight years. Call for information/admission prices: 626-447-8003. 1313 S. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

MOMS Club of the Foothills: Support group for stay-at-home moms meets regularly for all-member meetings, speakers, interest groups, playgroups, and much more. Serving La Canada, La Crescenta, Montrose, Sparr Heights, Tujunga, Sunland and Kagel Canyon. Information: email foothillmommembership@hotmail.com or call 818-306-3655. .

Pasadena City College: Registration continues year-round for Parent Education courses, which feature parent-child interaction, playtime, crafts, songs and parenting advice and information from seasoned instructors. Classes available for infants through per-Kindergarten and their parents or caregivers. Some multiple-child classes and special Dad's evening courses available. Information: 626-585-3038. Classes held at various San Gabriel Valley locations.

Amy's Playground Indoor playground features 3,000-square-foot play area with maze, bouncer, infant area and free weekly crafts. Must wear socks to enter. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; call for weekend availability. Adults free; kids two and older $8; siblings and kids under 2, $6. 1115 Mission St., South Pasadena.

Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore: Art classes with Gloria Aluzas provide an opportunity to complete a piece a child can be proud of! Call or visit the store for details. Ages 6-10: Mondays at 4 p.m. Kindergartners: Thursdays at 4 p.m. Information: 909-599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Altadena Public Library: Reading club, weekly musical shows, kids' workshops and activities. Check Web site for times, dates. 600 E. Mariposa Ave., Altadena.

The Little Gym: Features non-competitive motor skill development sessions for fitness and fun. New location now open in Monrovia, at 925 W. Foothill Blvd, one block east of Fifth Street. Information: 626-301-0100. La Canada location information: 818-249-4496. 2196 Foothill Blvd., La Canada.

Allendale Branch Library 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. Board game mania is held monthly, featuring games of all kinds, like Monopoly, Checkers, Chess, Cranium, Risk, Scrabble and more. 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena.

Arcadia Public Library: Storytimes for various age groups are offered throughout the week. Book Buddy program, where teen volunteers read to young children, and Barks and Books programs also offered. Pre-registration required; see librarian for details. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

MOMS Club of Monrovia - Support group for stay-at-home moms meets regularly for park days, stroller walks, and all-member meetings. Serving Monrovia, Duarte, and Bradbury. For more information please e-mail: momsclubofmonrovia@yahoo.com. .

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 2007, KBN Publishing Inc., 332 N. Magnolia Ave., Monrovia, CA 91016

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