Mrs. Weber's Neighborhood

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Visit Meadow Brook Hall’s Holiday Walk For A Taste of Christmas Past

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The post below is sponsored by Meadow Brook Hall & Gardens. I received complimentary passes in exchange for a review.

It’s no secret that Michigan is home to some very exquisite homes thanks to automobile money. Meadow Brook Hall & Gardens in Rochester, Michigan is no exception.

Meadow Brook Hall's Holiday Walk

My mom and I recently had a date together to visit this amazing home during Meadow Brook Hall’s Holiday Walk, and enjoyed learning and getting inspired along the way. We did the tour about 10 years ago, and this one was very different than we remembered. They decorate it differently every year, so it’s worth an annual visit for sure!

Meadow Brook Hall's Holiday Walk

This massive 88,000 square-foot home is a sight to behold, especially during the holiday season, where decor graces every corner. Docents are available in most rooms too, and are a wealth of knowledge about the nuances of the home and the family history.

Meadow Brook Hall's Holiday Walk

The home was once refuge from Detroit city life for Matilda Dodge Wilson {widow of John Francis Dodge} and her second husband, lumber baron, Alfred C. Wilson.

It took three years to build {1926-1929} and features Tudor revival style architecture. Currently, it’s the fourth largest historic mansion in the United States.

Although its design was inspired by a European trip, all of the building materials — including several styles of beautiful wood — were sourced in North America {with the exception of the wood in John’s study}. Just thinking of how much this home would be to build these days is mind-blowing. It truly is a national treasure!

Meadow Brook Hall's Holiday Walk

Maltilda didn’t miss a single detail when building her home. Her presence is felt in every room, with unique carvings and one-of-a-kind door knobs, doors, and surprises in every room. {The hidden staircase in the middle of the home was especially neat to see!}

For the holiday season, event designers have come in and decorated the home, including its 64 trees, which range from traditional to themed trees.

A few of our favorites were the living poinsettia tree, which was breathtakingly beautiful with its 150 live plants!

Meadow Brook Hall's Holiday Walk

The upside-down tree in Danny’s cottage in the woods, was definitely a fan favorite as well due to its uniqueness.

There are trees in nearly all of the 110 rooms of the home, and all are uniquely magical!

In addition to the tour, there are two cute gift shops on the premises that are worth checking out.

ENJOY if you visit!

HOLIDAY WALK INFORMATION

The holiday walk runs daily through December 23, 2019.

Holiday Walk tickets are $20 for adults, $7.50 for children ages 6-12, children age 5 and under are free {though I wouldn’t recommend this for the younger crowd or those unable to walk}. On Mondays and Wednesdays, seniors age 62 and older receive $5 off admission. Tickets for the final weekend of events featuring Santa and his reindeer on Dec. 21-23 are $22.50 for adults and seniors, $10 for children ages 6-12, children age 5 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased onsite in the Holiday Shop. Tours are self-guided and reservations are not required.

Children can participate in “Cleo’s Ornament Adventure,” inspired by the Dodge-Wilson’s beloved pet St. Bernard, Cleo. Children can participate in a special scavenger hunt while touring the mansion, then collect a prize at Candy Cane Cottage.

The mansion is open daily from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and until 8 p.m. on select evenings.

LOCATION

Meadow Brook Hall is located at 350 Estate Drive in Rochester.

Learn more by checking out the website for special events and more, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, and Instagram.

TIP: A few restaurants ideas if you visit the area: Patti Finnegan’s Pub & Grille right near the property, or Clubhouse BFD in Rochester Hills, which is close to M-59. There are plenty of additional restaurants too!

GIVEAWAY

I’m excited to giveaway two tickets for a lucky winner to enjoy. Make sure to visit my Instagram to enter. Best of luck!

Where are your favorite places to see beautiful Christmas decor?

FREE Pancakes at IHOP on March 12

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What is better than pancakes? Pancakes with a purpose!

On Tuesday, March 12, 2019 IHOP restaurants will offer each guest a free short stack of their famous buttermilk pancakes on National Pancake Day. The event runs from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

This is a nationwide program, but locally, this annual tradition aims to raise needed funds and awareness for Beaumont Children’s Hospital, the only Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals affiliate in Southeast Michigan.

2018 Free Pancake Day at IHOP

IHOP guests will be invited to make a voluntary donation to Beaumont Children’s to help improve the lives of pediatric patients through life-saving treatments, programs and medical equipment.

{The pancakes are totally free, so show your kids some generosity, and don’t forget to tip your server in the process!}

My kids always request to add sprinkles or chocolate chips for a small extra fee 😉 YOLO!

Southeast Michigan IHOP locations benefitting Beaumont Children’s include:

  • Bloomfield Hills
  • Brighton
  • Canton
  • Dearborn Heights
  • Detroit
  • Livonia
  • Monroe
  • Novi
  • Roseville
  • Royal Oak
  • Sterling Heights
  • Woodhaven
  • Ypsilanti

Learn more about IHOP’s National Pancake Day and find other participating locations here.

What are your favorite pancake toppings?

More inexpensive ways to give back can be found here.

Get Your Thrift ON: October Savings at The Salvation Army

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If you’ve been following me for awhile, you may know I tend to be a thrifty mama and love a lot of bang for my buck. One super easy way to get it is by thrifting at the Salvation Army.

Many items in my house are from “The Sally” as I like to call it 😉 I’ve re-habbed end tables, cabinets, and bought tons clothing — a lot of it still with tags! It takes patience to thrift, but I always find it’s well worth the effort.

So let me tell ya, I’ll be popping into my local store several times this month to hunt for treasure because this month, The Salvation ArmySoutheast Michigan Adult Rehabilitation Center will be offering shoppers at all 35 metro Detroit thrift stores up to 50 percent off certain items during its October ‘ThriftFest’ event.

October Savings at The Salvation Army

Here’s the scoop on what’s going on:

  • MONDAYS: Every Monday in October is “Men’s Night,” where men can get 50 percent off all clothing, shoes, accessories and electronics from 6 p.m. until close.
  • TUESDAYS: Kids are the stars on Tuesdays, when shoppers can enjoy 50 percent off all clothing, toys, accessories and shoes all day.
  • WEDNESDAYS: Residents over the age of 55 will benefit on Wednesdays, when thrift stores will offer shoppers anywhere from 25 percent to 44 percent off select items, including jewelry and collectibles.
  • THURSDAYS: Thursdays will be “Ladies Night” from 6 p.m. until close offering 50 percent off all clothing, shoes and accessories.
  • FRIDAYS: “Furniture Fridays” offers shoppers 50 percent off all furniture, as well as 15 percent off new mattresses and bedframes.
  • Early-bird shoppers can look forward to Sally Savings Saturdays, when the first 25 shoppers at every store will receive 50 percent off their entire purchase.
  • ON HALLOWEEN: Shoppers who come in wearing their Halloween costumes on Oct. 31 will receive will receive 33 percent off their entire order.

For complete details on The Salvation Army Family Thrift Stores ‘ThriftFest,’ make sure to visit www.facebook.com/semiarc often. They are great about posting reminders too, so if you’re thrift-minded, make sure you subscribe to their posts!

MEGA BONUS! Proceeds from all metro Detroit thrift stores benefit The Salvation Army Southeast Michigan Adult Rehabilitation Center’s independently funded, 180-day residential rehabilitation program for men and women.

Awesome cause!

What has been your best-ever thrift find?

Doorganics Michigan: Produce Delivered To Your Door

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The post below is sponsored by Doorganics Michigan. All opinions express belong to me.

I often joke that I need a farm to feed my kids. I knew having three kiddos would increase my grocery bill, but I seriously underestimated by how much. The amount of food we go through in a week is INSANE.

As much as I’d love to shop once a week, it’s just not possible. More realistic is shopping twice a week, once a week for my bigger items, and once strictly for produce/small items. I love Farmers Markets during summer, but with travel and events, it’s impossible for us to get there every week.

Doorganics Michigan

As the saying goes “You only get 18 summers with your kids,” so I’m always looking for ways to make life a bit easier in summer. One way to do this? Ordering produce delivered by Doorganics.

(P.S. Continue reading to receive a discount on your first Doorganics delivery!)

The Grand Rapids-based company is Michigan’s only organic delivery service, and they just began delivering organic-and-local groceries to Ann Arbor, metro Detroit, and even Livingston County. They also deliver to the Lakeshore and Traverse City. They have been serving customers in West Michigan since 2011.

Doorganics Michigan

Doorganics deliveriesstart with a customizable produce box full of local and organic fruits and veggies. Customers can then shop from more than 150 different Michigan-made grocery itemsincluding farm eggs, pastured meats, fresh baked breads, cheeses, as well as organic deli salads and prepared meals.

Doorganics Michigan

Last year, Doorganics purchased more than $250,000 worth of food items from small local producers. It makes me happy to know the company is helping to impact local small businesses.

Many produce itemsare local to Michigan, but of course that depends on the season. I am looking forward to all local produce once Michigan is in its full agricultural swing coming up soon {typically July-November}. The fact that this service is organic and costs about the same as the grocery store is a major bonus, too.

I have enjoyed trying some new-to-me Michigan-based products, and even have snagged some items that were perfect snacks for the kiddos.

The produce I have received has been of a beautiful quality and the amount of produce has been perfect for our family. The packaging is really stellar, so food stays cool, even on a hot day, and there’s no need to be home when your delivery arrives. I love that they company will pick up your packaging after too, to ensure it is recycled.

Once you create an account, it’s easy to swap out items to things you will use {each order gets up to four swaps, and there are plenty of great options}, and we’ve had no trouble going through the items fast enough. Everything has tasted fresh and delicious!

In fact, about once every week or so, we do a “snack tray” type meal — my kids LOVE doing these, and I love seeing them gobble up so much good stuff. Our orders have been fantastic for this!

PRICING

Doorganics has a variety of delivery sizes(or bins) ranging from $29.99 to $49.99. There are plenty of options for add-on groceries too. Honestly, I spend pretty close to $30 each week on produce, and it’s not even all organic. Delivery is included in the price, and customers have full control of their delivery schedule inside an online member portal.

I feel like it’s a decent value for your money. As I always say to fellow mamas — “What’s your time worth?”

Mine is definitely better spent hanging with my crew and laughing over playing with our food than doing more shopping!

I love that the summer will bring even more local and organic produce to Doorganics. This service is such a great concept for busy families that lead healthy lifestyles, and I look forward to watching the company grow to even more zip codes across Michigan!

DOORGANICS PROMO CODE

I’m excited to offer my readers the chance to try Doorganics at a discounted rate. Just enter MRSWEBER into the promo code box for $12 off your first order. Try it out! If you don’t enjoy it, simply cancel future orders at any time. Visit HERE to sign-up!

Learn more about Doorganics on their website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter.

Enjoy! What other ways do you streamline life during summer?

Know an Incredible Kid in Metro Detroit? Nominate Them To Win A Party With MOD Pizza {+ Giveaway}

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The post below is sponsored by TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants.

Do you know an incredible kid in metro Detroit? If so, I have a fun contest for those of you located near MOD Pizza locations.

In honor of Incredible Kid Day on March 15, TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants, a Michigan-based family-owned restaurant group with an expansive portfolio of casual, quick service and family dining restaurants throughout the state, and its nine MOD Pizza restaurants, are celebrating by giving a free pizza party from each of its locations to nine local students’ classrooms.

Incredible Kid in Metro Detroit - MOD Pizza

A day dedicated to recognizing the incredible efforts and characteristics of children around the world, MOD Pizza is seeking parents, guardians, teachers or friends to nominate local students who have gone above and beyond to create a ripple effect for good in the communities MOD Pizza serves. The winning students, as selected by each of the nine MOD Squads, will receive a free pizza party for his/her entire classroom. Students in kindergarten through fifth grade in the following communities are eligible:

  • Brighton
  • Canton
  • Chesterfield
  • Livonia
  • Northville
  • Rochester Hills
  • Shelby Township
  • Woodhaven

Those interested in nominating a student simply need to fill out this form, complete with the nominator’s name, the student’s name and age, the nominee’s school, contact information, and 200 words or less explaining why the student should be selected as a MOD Pizza Incredible Kid. Nominations will be accepted through Monday, March 30. The grand prize pizza party winners will be selected and notified by Friday, April 6. Each student in the winning classroom will also receive a coupon for a free MOD sized pizza. For more information, visit HERE.‎

If you aren’t familiar, MOD’s individual artisan-style pizzas are made on demand, using fresh dough and signature sauces. Guests can create their own pizzas and salads, using any combination of more than 30 fresh-featured toppings, or they can choose from a menu of MOD classics. For more information on TSFR and its MOD Pizza locations, visit www.teamschostak.com.

GIVEAWAY

I have a $25 gift card to give away to one lucky winner. Use the form below to enter. Giveaway is open to Michigan resident only and ends on April 9, 2018 at midnight.  Good luck! MOD – Incredible Kid

The Best Odd Adventure in Metro Detroit: Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum {Free to Visit!}

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“Don’t dream about what you want to do. Stay awake and do it.” ~ The late Marvin Yagoda

Isn’t this the best quote ever? In case you don’t know who Marvin is, he’s the colorful man behind a treasure trove of odd fun in Farmington Hills: Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum.

Plan a visit and I guarantee it will make you smile!

This ‘museum’ offers patrons more than meets the eye. From flying airplanes across the ceiling to a life-size version of the tallest man on earth, there is truly something for all who appreciate quirk and the odd side of life. This is the greatest roadside attraction!

Marvin opened the museum in 1990 and worked to cram the 5,000-square-foot space with goodies including historic art and the craziest coin-operated machines you will ever see. Today, modern computer-run games are mixed in with antique machines in the most bizarre yet unbelievably awesome way.

This spot has been on my list to visit forever, so I was thrilled to have a random Saturday to raid our piggy banks of quarters and head out for some family fun. My crew, including a 3, 5 and 7-year old, had a giant grin the entire time we explored.

I mean where else can you play skeeball, test your passion, handshake with Uncle Sam, and watch a county food inspector throw-up? Only at Marvin’s…

It’s truly a circus, magic show, and arcade inside the four walls and it’s SO weird and oh-so-charming, too.

You could easily visit 10 times and still miss something because there is just so much to look at. Best of all? You can look for FREE because there is NO entry fee. Games do cost, obviously, but everything operates on quarters and there are change machines should you need them.

My kids really enjoyed the few kiddie rides they had too, including a tiny ferris wheel for kids under 45 pounds and a mini carousel with three horses.

We also introduced our kids to Pinball — the ultimate game for hand-eye coordination for kids. I loved seeing the vintage machines and my kids enjoyed seeing superheroes they recognized as well.

Some of the machines were just downright creepy, but there is no denying that there is a lost art to creating them, and I’m so glad their odd little legacy lives on at Marvin’s.

{Probably couldn’t ever sleep there though…I mean, what’s up with this beekeeping sailor that just laughs when you put a quarter in?!}

My kids honestly thought it was the coolest place they have ever been. All three had $7 in quarters from their own piggy banks and that was enough to last us an entire blissful hour, which is pretty long for arcade play without a food break.

I was pleasantly surprised that all games were $0.25-$0.50 with some of the fancier/ride-on type ones just $1. Just one more way Marvin’s is about the experience and not just making money.

But if you do want food, a concession stand in the middle has popcorn cotton candy, slushes, pizza and hot dogs to serve those arcade cravings. The prices are extremely reasonable, too.

And no arcade would be complete without a prize counter. Basically redeeming tickets is like winning the lottery for kids. Win tickets and let them practice math skills to determine how best to spend them.

Overall, this is one heck of an adventure spot for family and there is one thing I can say about Marvin’s: I hope it never goes away. You can definitely tell Marvin made this place for ALL ages and income brackets to enjoy, and that speaks volumes to me as a patron.

We can’t wait to visit again!

Hours

  • Monday-Thursday: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  • Fridays & Saturdays: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.
  • Sundays: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Note: Marvin’s is open 365 days each year, even on Christmas!

Location

Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum is located at 31005 Orchard Lake Rd, Farmington Hills, MI. It’s sandwiched in the middle of a plaza alongside Buy Buy Baby, Old Navy, a Buffalo Wild Wings and more.

Drive through the arch and look for the pink awning.

There are plenty of great dining options within a few miles.

Extra Savings

Be on the lookout for a Groupon for Marvin’s too for some extra savings. The current Groupon:

https://www.groupon.com/deals/marvin-s-marvelous-mechanical-museum-1

{This is an affiliate link and I make a small commission on any purchases.}

Have you been to Marvin’s? What’s your favorite reason to visit?

Other FREE places to head around southeast Michigan are HERE {winter} and HERE {summer}.

10 Reasons to Visit The Henry Ford and Greenfield Village This Summer {+Giveaway ENDS 6/20}

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10 Reasons to Visit The Henry Ford and Greenfield Village This Summer

Nothing screams summer in metro Detroit quite like a visit to The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village. This place is amazing for kids, adults and history lovers alike, and always top of my list when entertaining out-of-town visitors.

I’ve compiled a list of 10 reasons to visit this summer, but believe me — I’ve left off a ton. See the entire calendar of fun here. In the meantime, here’s a few excuses to get you to make the drive to this Dearborn gem!

10 Reasons to Visit The Henry Ford and Greenfield Village This Summer

National Get Outdoors Day {June 10}

Join a historic forest ranger in Greenfield Village for a day of one-of-a-kind outdoor activities, including an afternoon nature hike, presentations by our historic forest ranger on horseback, tours of the William Ford Horse Barn and other hands-on activities. {Free with GFV ticket admission}

Tinkering for Tots Preschool Program {2nd Monday of each month}

Little learners have the opportunity to get a head full of STEAM {science, technology, engineering, art and math} with this hands-on program. Designed for curious preschoolers, our inspired yet playful activities focus on themed materials and then expand outward with storytelling, crafting, building and artifact exploration.

Historic Base Ball {Saturdays and Sundays, Through August 20} 

Visit the Village for historic base ball {yes, it used to be two words} based on the rules of 1867. Gloves optional, but certainly not preferred. No designated hitters, either, or domed stadiums. We still have pitchers and batters and home runs. But this is thrill-a-minute base ball in the glorious outdoors. {Admission included with GFV ticket.}

Coolest Playground EVER

The playground in the middle of Greenfield Village is such a neat space and is made for kids of ALL abilities. Stop and picnic on the grass nearby and grab an ice cream next door, too! Also, don’t forget to take a ride on the beautiful and historic carousel.

Throwback Thursdays {Throughout Summer} 

Each month, THF will stay open late on select Thursday nights to rediscover popular classics and cult films from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. Experience them again on the Giant Screen. Pricing ranges $7.50 for kids – $10 for adults.

Sensory-Friendly Saturday at Ford Rouge Factory {June 24}

Visit the Ford Rouge Factory for a special event catering to those with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other sensory processing disorders. A variety of accommodations, activities and more have been put into place to create an inclusive, welcoming and safe space for all.

Salute to America {June 30 – July 3} 

A classic Independence Day celebration complete with picnics, games, fun for kids and festive holiday food from the award-winning culinary staff. Each evening has a joint concert by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the Jazz Ambassadors of the United States Army Field Band, the premier touring musical representatives of the United States Army. The finale is the DSO’s stirring rendition of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, played in harmony with authentic cannon fire under a canopy of fireworks. {Tickets are separate cost. Pricing here.}

Maker Faire Detroit {July 29-30}

Explore 24 acres of imagination meeting determination. The maker movement will leave you reeling long after the two-day festival ends. Encounter inspiration everywhere you look on the open-air midway and inside the museum, in the form of robotics, animatronics, flaming carnival games, marshmallow shooters, clothing, food, games, mechanical wizardry and more. DIYers, curiosity seekers, artists, scientists and engineers meet their tribes through demonstrations, hands-on workshops and spontaneous spectacles. {Tickets are separate cost. Pricing here.}

Educational Experiences Daily

From glass blowing and tin making to historical games and old time school sessions, there is plenty of learning to be found at both The Henry Ford and Greenfield Village. {I love learning how they farmed…It makes me tired just to think about it!}

National Aviation Day {August 19}

Visit The Henry Ford Museum for FREE thanks to Delta Air Lines! Soar into the first 40 years of flight on this celebratory occasion. One of the most miraculous periods of discovery will thrill you with iconic and history-making aircraft from Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation’s collection.

What’s your favorite reasons to visit The Henry Ford and Greenfield Village?

Learn more by visiting the website | Facebook | Twitter.

GIVEAWAY

I am excited to offer the chance for one lucky person to win a family 4-pack to visit Greenfield Village this summer! Enter using the form below. Giveaway ends on June 20, 2017 at midnight.

4 Tickets to Greenfield Village

Incredible Kid Giveaway with MOD Pizza in Metro Detroit

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The post below is sponsored by TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants.

Do you know an incredible kid? If so, I have a fun contest for those of you located near MOD Pizza locations in metro Detroit.

In honor of Incredible Kid Day on March 16, TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants, a Michigan-based family-owned restaurant group and its eight MOD Pizza restaurants, will celebrate by giving a free pizza party from each of its locations to eight students’ classrooms.

MOD Pizza is seeking parents, guardians or friends to nominate students who have gone above and beyond to create a ripple effect for good in the communities MOD Pizza serves.

The winning students, as selected by each of the eight MOD Squads, will receive a free pizza party for his/her entire classroom.

Kindergarteners through fifth grade in the following school districts are eligible:

  • Brighton
  • Canton
  • Chesterfield
  • Livonia
  • Northville
  • Rochester Hills
  • Shelby Township
  • Woodhaven

Those interested in nominating a student need to fill out the online form, complete with the nominator’s name, the student’s name and age, the nominee’s school, contact information, and 200 words or less explaining why the student should be selected as a MOD Pizza Incredible Kid. Access the form here.‎

Nominations will be accepted through Sunday, March 19. The grand prize pizza party winners will be selected and notified by Friday, March 24.

Each student in the winning classroom will also receive a coupon for a free MOD sized pizza.

For more information, visit: http://teamschostak.com/mod-pizza-incredible-kid-contest/. ‎

If you aren’t familiar, MOD’s individual artisan-style pizzas are made on demand, using fresh dough and signature sauces. Guests can create their own pizzas and salads, using any combination of more than 30 fresh-featured toppings, or they can choose from a menu of MOD classics.

Personally, I’m a huge fan of the MOD Pizza brand and their commitment to the communities they serve. We love visiting as a family {my kids love their cinnamon strips!} and I love that they are so supportive of our schools and local nonprofits.

For more information on TSFR and its MOD Pizza locations {with more to come to Michigan!}, visit www.teamschostak.com.

GIVEAWAY

I have a $25 gift card to give away to one lucky winner. Use the form below to enter. Giveaway is open to Michigan resident only and ends on March 17, 2017.  Good luck!
MOD Pizza $25 Gift Card

“Spread MODness” Nov. 22-27 with MOD Pizza and Michigan Organizations {+ GIVEAWAY ENDS 11/27}

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mod-logo

The post below is sponsored by TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants. All opinions expressed belong to me.

Holiday shopping paired with numerous family gatherings this season means a lot of time on the road for many families…Not too mention being too drained and tired to cook after some road trips!

Thankfully, places like MOD are great for all ages and palates. It’s one of my family’s favorite spots to grab a bite to eat since we can all customize our own pizza…Oh, and my kids are obsessed with their cinnamon strips 😉

The holiday season, TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants {TSFR}, a Michigan-based family-owned restaurant group, and its Livonia, Woodhaven, Rochester Hills, Brighton and Northville MOD Pizza restaurants, are teaming up with local organizations for its annual “Spreading MODness” campaign.

During Spreading MODness, the company and its restaurants will donate $1 for every pizza sold to locally-based organizations.

Spreading Modness

This year’s event will run from November 22-27, 2016.

What a great way to celebrate THANKSgiving week, right?! The following organizations will be the recipients of the funds raised at TSFR’s five MOD Pizza restaurants:

  • Woodhaven MOD Pizza {23071 Allen Rd.}: Woodhaven Brownstown Education Foundation
  • Livonia MOD Pizza {13229 Middlebelt Rd.}: Livonia Public Schools (LPS) Education Foundation
  • Rochester Hills MOD Pizza {3058 S. Rochester Rd.}: The Rainbow Connection
  • Brighton MOD Pizza {8605 W. Grand River}: Make-A-Wish® Michigan
  • Northville MOD Pizza {18821 Traditions Dr.}: Northville Educational Foundation

As we draw closer to the holidays, the thing that has been on my brain is KINDNESS. I’m grateful for socially responsible companies like MOD Pizza that give back — especially directly to the communities it serves. Thanks, MOD!

On a national level, MOD’s 182 stores have a goal to donate more than $250,000. This is the company’s fourth year of the campaign.

To learn more, watch Spreading MODness 2016 or visit the MOD Pizza blog to see how the company is using their business as a platform for good.

For more information about TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants, visit www.teamschostak.com.

JOIN ME AT MOD PIZZA IN BRIGHTON ON 11/23!

I will be visiting MOD Pizza in Brighton on Wednesday, November 23 at 5 p.m. to have pizza with my family. Stop by, say hi and spread some MODness {and cheer}!

GIVEAWAY

I have a $25 gift card to MODPizza for one lucky winner. Follow the prompts below. MUST BE A RESIDENT OF MICHIGAN to win. Contest ends on November 27, 2016 at midnight.

$25 Gift Card to MOD Pizza

My Experience With LASIK Eye Surgery

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My Experience With LASIK Eye Surgery

I have had near perfect vision for almost 8 months and I have to say – WOW. Is this a medical miracle or what?!

I took the plunge and got LASIK eye surgery at the beginning of the year after much thought.

I had been a glasses and contacts wears for 20 years, and had developed an allergy to my contacts, so I was paying a ridiculous amount for dailies {and I *do* have vision insurance}, and grew sick of it.

I’m so glad I made the plunge at this point in my life. It truly is a life-changer!

Here’s more about my experience with LASIK eye surgery:

THE PROCESS

LASIK is an out-patient procedure that reshapes the surface of your cornea with a laser. It took a total of maybe 20 minutes to do the surgery, and an hour total at the office from start to finish.

I won’t lie, the surgery was a scary experience for me. Before going back, I was given a dose of Valium to help my body relax. I just felt a tad drunk, and it turned out it wore off fast with me. {Epidurals also never worked for me – gah!} I definitely felt slightly panicked during the process, which my doctor later said wasn’t typical. If I had to do it again, I would ask for an extra dose since my body is resistant to anti-anxiety meds.

With that said, it wasn’t painful, it was just uncomfortable. I was so glad it was a quick procedure!

LOOKING FOR A DOCTOR

When I looked for a doctor to do the surgery, I considered reviews, spoke with people I knew, and examined cost. Convenience was also a major factor. There are LOTS of appointments associated with the surgery, so consider that when exploring options.

RECOVERY TIME

My surgery was scheduled for early morning, and it took the entire day to recover. I actually felt fine after the surgery, but was tired and slept for most of the day. I had grandma watch the kids so I could stay in bed and keep my eyes closed per the doctor’s orders. I listened to podcasts and slept. As a busy mom of three, it was kind of nice to have the excuse to relax! The only discomfort I felt was that my eye had something in them. Keeping them shut felt nice.

The next morning, I had a follow-up appointment. My vision was a tad blurry, but I was able to drive myself to the appointment without any troubles.

It took my eyes a few months to fully adjust and heal. I initially had a lot of trouble driving at night and with dry eyes. Eight months later, I still use drops occasionally, and notice the lights blur a bit at night after I’ve had a long day.

LASIK CONSIDERATIONS

Before considering LASIK, take note of these tips:

  • My optometrist suggested waiting until I was done having kids before seeing if I was eligible for LASIK because your eyes can change during pregnancy.
  • Our insurance did NOT cover the cost, as it’s considered a cosmetic procedure. To help offset the expense, we maxed out our Flex Spending Account at the start of the year since LASIK is an eligible expense, and used those funds to help save about 10 percent. My surgery cost was $3,600 {the initial consult, surgery, follow-ups, meds and drops}. By my calculations, it will pay for itself in about 4 years. We paid for it outright {no family vacations for us this past year!}, but there are payment plans and CareCredit options available.
  • Before surgery, you cannot wear your contacts for two weeks since they change the shape of your cornea.
  • You have to be comfortable with putting drops in your eyes. LOTS of drops. This was my regime post-surgery: LASIK Eye Surgery Drops
  • You may not be glasses-free forever. My doctor said I should have stellar vision for 10 years. After that time, there’s always a chance I may need reading/computer glasses as I age. Still, so worth it in my opinion.

OVERALL

Before surgery, I was farsighted to a -5.75 in both eyes. If you aren’t familiar, that’s pretty much blind. I often joked I wouldn’t be able to identify a nighttime robber in a line-up because I couldn’t see anything without my glasses/contacts. The funny thing is, even 8 months after surgery, I still reach for my glasses when I wake-up every morning. Old habits are tough to break!

Would I do it again? YES. In a heartbeat. So worth it to receive the gift of good vision again!

I chose Lake Lazer Eye Center for my LASIK. The office has locations in Milford, Novi and Clinton Township. Dr. Khambati is highly skilled and great at what he does. I highly recommend him!

*This is NOT a paid post. Just wanted to help those considering LASIK 🙂

Have you had LASIK or considered it?

Places Kids Eat Free or Cheap

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The post below is sponsored by TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants. All opinions expressed belong to me.

As we head back to school, many families lives will get a tad bit busier. With dance lessons and soccer matches squeezed into the time that kids aren’t in school, there’s little time left to eat dinner, let alone make it.

Some days, it’s just easier to eat on the road. But as I’ve learned, eating out with kids is SO expensive.

Thankfully, many restaurants cater to hungry families and offer discounted items, and even free meals. Woohoo!

One such restaurant group is TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants, which operates 66 Applebee’s restaurants and five MOD Pizza locations throughout Michigan. {Check out my review of MOD if you’ve never been. It’s delicious!}

Applebee’s will offer kid’s meals for just 99 cents every Tuesday in September and October {meaning a family of four can eat a meal for as low as $30…score}!

Applebee's Kids Menu

Here are some other places you can easily grab an {inexpensive} bite. I stuck to restaurants with more than one location to best serve my readers. Feel free to add more in the comments!

*Call your location to ensure they participate. It can vary greatly, depending on the franchisee.*

Places For Free or Cheap Meals for Kids:

Places Kids Eat Free or Cheap

  • Applebee’s: Every Tuesday kids eat for $1.49 {it will be rolled back to 99 cents for September and October}.
  • Aubree’s Pizzeria & Grill: Purchase from the adult buffet {$8.99} from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. on the weekends and until 2 p.m. during the week, and kids 5 and under will be free.
  • Bagger Dave’s: Sunday and Wednesday $2.75 kids meals {includes a side and a drink}.
  • Bob Evans: Kids eat free with purchase of adult entree every Tuesday. 4-10 p.m.
  • Chili’s: Sign up for the rewards program online to get coupons, including kids eat free deals.
  • Chipotle: Through September, kids can eat free each Sunday with an entree purchase. Age 12 and under.
  • Cici’s Pizza: Kids under 3 eat free every day.
  • Culver’s: Kids 12 and under get a free frozen custard with the purchase of a kid’s meal {valid daily}.
  • Denny’s: Kids eat free at Denny’s on Tuesdays from 4-10 p.m. {at some locations, Saturdays, too}. Up to two kids get a free meal for every paying adult.
  • Dickey’s Barbecue Pit: Kids eat free on Sundays. One free Kid’s Meal per paid adult meal of equal or greater value. 12 years and under. Dine-in only. Must order from Kid’s Meals.
  • Firehouse Subs: Kids eat free all day on Sunday. Two free kids’ meal for each adult combo meal purchased.
  • IHOP: Purchase one adult entree, and kids eat free! Through 9/25. Valid from 4-10 p.m.
  • IKEA: Kids eat free every Tuesday and during special promotions throughout the year.
  • Golden Corral: Children ages 4 to 12 enjoy the all-you-can-eat buffet for just $2.99 after 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Kids 3 and under eat FREE.
  • Joe’s Crab Shack: Free kids meals for up to 3 kids per table on Mondays only. Must order one adult meal.
  • Tony Sacco’s: All day on Sundays, get half off kids’ pizzas.
  • Rojo Mexican Bistro: Kids eat free on Sundays with purchase of any adult meal. Children 10 and under. 1 Child per 1 adult.
  • Qdoba Mexican Grill: Wednesday nights they have shredded chicken burritos for $4.99 from 4-10 p.m.
  • Steak ‘n Shake: One free kids meal per every $8 adult meal, all day Saturday and Sunday. Ages 12 and younger. Multiple locations.

Where are your favorite spots for an inexpensive dinner out with the kids? 

Development Concerns? Bib to Backpack is a FREE Resource for Greater Detroit Parents

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I can’t even count the number of times I have turned to Google when desperate to figure something out for my kids. Sometimes I find exactly what I need, but mostly it just makes me question things even more. With a daughter who has failed to hit speech and development milestones, I’m extra sensitive to her needs. I am constantly looking for ways to advocate for her and see how I can help get her to the place she needs to be before starting school.

I’ve written about our experience with Early On Michigan, but what about other FREE programs for parents to turn to when faced with developmental parenting questions?

I recently learned about the Bib to Backpack program from United Way for Southeastern Michigan, and wanted to share about this wonderful resource for parents of young children in Greater Detroit.

Bib to Backpack

For starters, this is an enlightening statistic:

Only 60 percent of children locally are developmentally on track.

 

Bib to Backpack is different from any other early childhood development work because its focus is on parents and caregivers, providing support to help kids get ready to learn and succeed in kindergarten. I love this because many of our state programs only help until age 3. This helps fill in ALL the gaps. Best of all? There is no need to “qualify” for anything. Each resource is FREE.

A few ways Bib to Backpack can help:

  • Parents can take a 10-minute questionnaire to ensure their child is developing as needed
  • Parents can use the 2-1-1 number to access a professional who can help connect them to the resources they need — libraries, food pantries, local parenting networks and more
  • Parents can easily search for quality daycare centers and preschools

There are lots of testimonials on the site. This one was especially great: http://www.liveunitedsem.org/stories/entry/empowering-parents-at-every-stage

As a parent, I am passionate about making sure my kids are where they need to be developmentally. If you have even the slightest question if your child is on the right track, talk to your pediatrician and take the questionnaire to see what you can learn. Early intervention is critical to school success. I’m beyond thankful for programs like Bib to Backpack for helping local kids!

What resources have you turned to for help with your child’s development?

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