You've probably been wondering why I have been so quiet lately and it is not because I've given up and packed it all in - on the contrary! The family and I have been spending some much needed quality time together and had a staycation. So much better than a fakeaction any day of the week.
The Great Lakes Science Center graciously gave us tickets to explore their new exhibitLEGO® Travel Adventure to facilitate this post and as part of our staycation, it was pretty awesome. And, yes, everything is awe-some.
The exhibit itself is produced by The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis in cooperation with LEGO® Systems, Inc. and is visiting the Great Lakes Science Center until September 7.
While we were there we were able to meet Arthur Gugick, a local math teacher and lifelong LEGO enthusiast, who was in the process of creating a portrait of Einstein. Many of his works of art hung from the walls and are on display. He was mesmerizing to watch, not only because of his concentration but because he was capturing the essence of a man using LEGO!
We were provided with tickets to the opening night performance to facilitate this post. Opinions are my own and this is not a paid endorsement.
When we were asked if we would like to see Walking with Dinosaurs Live, I must admit I was not all that excited. Baby girl on the other hand was beside herself and my son, who is older and wiser than his sister could not imagine how good it could be since they were not real dinosaurs and that they are extinct.
All that changed when we walked into the Q Arena and saw the simple but massive set. The massively glowing teeth was enough to convince me this was not just mechanical dinosaurs.
Once the show started, I started to feel like we were being sent back in time and I was pretty mesmerized by Andrew Blackman's Australian accent. He plays Huxley the paleontologist and he guides us thought the Cretaceous, Jurassic, and Triassic periods. It was awe-inspiring to experience our world, new, and all of the amazing things it went through to be the world we see now.
The show also pulled at the heart strings sharing the joys, triumphs, and sadness that the dinosaurs must have experienced. The show successfully brought to life the wonder of the massive creatures gone so very long ago and it was certainly enough to capture the imagination of my oldest who was a lot less critical of seeing a show with "robot dinosaurs."
There is still time! Don't let this opportunity pass you by - who knows when the dinosaurs will be walking in Cleveland again!
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW ONLINE, BY CALLING 888-894-9424, AT THE QUICKEN LOANS ARENA BOX OFFICE OR AT ALL NORTHERN OHIO DISCOUNT DRUG MARTS.
With Parade the Circle coming up this weekend, I could not resist taking the opportunity to share some photos from our recent trip to the Cleveland Botanical Gardens.
The Botanical Garden is hosting Nature Connects A LEGO® Brick Experience - special to the Garden this summer only! Through this amazingly creative exhibit of LEGOS, the Garden hopes we can "learn about and discover the amazing interconnections in nature through daily interactive indoor and out experiences." The cost is free to members (which we are) or $11 for adults and $6 for kids.
As we were driving to meet up with friends a song about a scavenger hunt came on the kid's radio station and I got way too excited about wanting to do one when we got to the gardens. My kids groaned, loudly. I still think it would be a fun idea. I wish they still made disposable cameras. Or, do they...?
It's Mother's Day Weekend! I plan on making this a low key kind of weekend and by low key I mean volunteering at Playhouse Square's The International Children’s Theater Festival, two birthday parties (one for each kid) to attend, and a much needed date with my washing machine. Oh, who am I kidding? I am heading to the Art Museum on Sunday!
If you are looking for some fun, look at the calendar at the end! It is full of ideas of what we would like to do this May in Northeast Ohio if we had unlimited time and money. Some are free, most are not, and be sure to call all events prior to attending, just in case I have some information wrong or it was canceled.
If you like this post, please share and if you go to any I'd love to hear about it either here, on Facebook, twitter or g+. If you really like something you can share or retweet right from this post! Don't you love social media!
Disclosure: Tickets were given to us to facilitate this review and giveaway. We did not receive any other compensation.
It is hard to believe another summer season is upon us but it is! And, there is nothing like the smell of BBQ and the sounds of rock on the edge of the Cuyahoga to welcome the summer sun.
It is time for the 23rd Annual Marc’s Great American Rib Cook-Off & Music Festival Memorial Weekend. Taste and hear the sounds of summer Friday, May 23, through Monday, May 26, at Jacobs Pavilion and Nautica Entertainment Complex on the West Bank of the Flats! And they have generously given me TWO (2) sets of FOUR (4) general admission tickets to giveaway!
We were there last year and had a brilliant time, soaking up the sun, eating grilled pineapple, and just enjoying the bands that were playing.
University Circle was born when two universities loved each other very much and... oh wait, that's babies.
University Circle came to be when two universities in Cleveland, Western Reserve University and Case Institute of Technology, were looking to relocate and they settled around an area with a circular street intersection and a traffic turnaround created at Euclid Avenue and Doan Brook Boulevard (which would become Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard). Hence the name, University Circle. There are a lot of twist and turns and I must say driving around there can make me dizzy.
"Roughly 1-square-mile in area, University Circle is a City of Cleveland neighborhood located 3 miles east of downtown, 2 miles south of Lake Erie and directly west of the inner ring suburban communities of Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and East Cleveland.
Bordered by Cleveland's Little Italy neighborhood to the east,Rockefeller Parkto the northwest and connected to Downtown with Euclid Avenue running through it center, University Circle is strategically positioned with scenic park settings amid the bustle of a busy urban neighborhood." (source)
Besides being the home of what is now Case Western University and the Cleveland Institute of Art, University Circle is the home to the majority of Cleveland's museums as well as our orchestra.
University Circle is spectacular and for this westsider, a little excotic. Don't laugh, I was an art major in high school and loved to visit and explore the art museum. This was not cool. There is an energy surrounding this area that is addictive and you want to belong. And, for a brief minute in the 90's, I lived in the area and realized I prefer to visit, but that had more to do with a bad relationship and missing my family.
Needless to say, I visit when I can and enjoy the many activities that the Circle has to offer from Parade the Circle and Wade Oval Wednesday to Chalk Fest and CircleFest.
We were provided with tickets to the Great Lakes Science Center as well as OMNIMAX to facilitate this post. Opinions are all my own. Giveaway does not include OMNIMAX tickets.
Situated on the shore of Lake Erie sits the Great Lakes Science Center. It is easy enough to find, once you spot the 150 foot wind turbine off the shoreway. The wind turbine, with the help of the 300 feet of solar canopy, produces 6% of the power used at the Science Center.
Sheltered in the walls of this statuesque building lives hands on science for young and old alike. It is one one of the nation’s leading science and technology centers housing the NASA Glenn Visitor Center, an OMNIMAX Theater, and at its pier, the Steamship William G. Mather.
Sure you may surmise that nothing fun can happen at a place of learning - okay maybe your kids might think that, but once you step into this stunning space they will know that something special happens here. There is truly something to amaze from the space explorer to the scientist with hundreds of hands on exhibits as well as demonstrations set-up to capture imaginations.
One of the rewards of working in Downtown Cleveland is the ridiculous view I get to see everyday on my way to work, never mind my ability to take a short walk down East 9th Street to see it up close and personal. As I was thinking of what to do for the letter "R" I realized that I would be remiss not to include the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, or to locals the Rock Hall, on my #AtoZNortheastOhio challenge.
I remember when the campaign to build the Rock Hall in Cleveland was going on and I really did not think that something this cool would come to Cleveland. I was in high school and did not realize the resolve that this City has when it comes to their Rock and Roll. It is revered.
There are no shortages of museums in Northeast Ohio. In fact, it is my favorite part of living here.
When I was young, I would take dates to the art museum to get a feel of who they were and what they like to determine what kind of future we would have, eventually I stopped because it was just too disappointing. Now, many years later, I get to share my love of our museums with the kids and they are way cooler than anyone else I dragged with me.
There are so many museums in Northeast Ohio. So many! I am giving you our five favorites for the Cleveland area. These are the museums we frequent the most and should probably purchase family memberships to but haven't.
Meet Me at the Museum: A Kid Friendly, Must Do List in Cleveland
I love ice cream. I love it more than cake and especially more than pie. When I set out to do Northeast Ohio A to Z, I knew ice cream would play an important role.
There are an impressive amount of ice cream joints in Northeast Ohio. It is hard to pick an idol (so to speak) so these are the ones that we go to intermittently and implore you to check them out or if you have gone to one - share your impressions in the comment section!
If you are so inclined - check out my list on FourSquare.
Sweet Moses
I mentioned them earlier this week and we happen to go with the Husband who took some really ingenious pictures of our trip.
I am very much inclined to have the salted caramel, with hot fudge and the kids opt for the infinitely wonderful plain chocolate and vanilla bean with rainbow sprinkles. The Husband, who thinks that all ice cream tastes the same, went for a mango milkshake and was hesitant to share because it was that good.
We attended a night out as guests of the Lake Erie Monsters. Opinions are my own.
The kids and I recently went to a Lake Erie Monsters game and now we get to give a night out away!
We had a blast at the game we attended as guests of the Lake Erie Monsters and we are planning to attend our next game soon. Baby girl is still talking about the knuckle sandwiches that were exchanged and my son is impressed with how cool and fast the players were on the ice. We really are Monsters hockey fans now!
Besides the 5 Facts About Monsters Hockey That Will Impress Your Mom, Monsters Hockey is just good clean, affordable fun. I was just beside myself at how much there was for the kids to do and how friendly everyone is. I am thrilled to be allowed to offer these tickets to a lucky winner and I hope you check them out! I have added all of their promotional nights to my calendar but they have many more games.
Last year, the kids and I got a sneak peek as well as as an opportunity to judge the gingerbread house competition. This year we waited till after Christmas to go and it was incredible!
Brrr! January is cold in Northeast Ohio but there is plenty of indoor (and outdoor) fun for the family. Some are free, most are not but all are guaranteed** to make you happy in Cleveland!
** nothing is guaranteed in this post - call before going.
While visiting a relative at Metro Hospital, the kids and I were looking at the city from the 11th floor. I asked baby girl what city that was and her voice deepened a little when she said, "The city of Townsville."
When it was announced that there would be a medical mart in Cleveland I really didn't give it much thought. In fact, I am not really sure I was even working downtown when it was first announced so I really did not care if it happened or not.
the flame for the Senior Games (which will stay)
When the cost and timeline was debated in the papers and on the local news I honestly rolled my eyes because I just wanted to see the weather report.
they greeted us as we entered the festival
When it was under construction I was annoyed because it inconvenienced me. When it was finished, I was relived and slightly curious.
enjoying a break on the grass
This past weekend was the start of the first convention - the National Senior Games. It was also the first real opportunity to explore the Cleveland Convention Center as it was meant to be with a convention.
Admittedly, I had other motives for going and never made it inside but over the next two weeks there will be plenty of opportunities to do so since the games will be going on and there are events scheduled and opened to the public
Rusted Root!
Now, if this was 1995 and you would have told me that in 2013 I would be seeing Rusted Root at the National Senior Games with my two kids and that guy I occasionally worked with and is now my husband I would have choked on my clove cigarette. So, when I found out Rusted Root was playing the opening night of the National Senior Games and it was free, all of a sudden I cared about the medical mart and I took those kids and that guy to go hear them play.
Speaking of 1995 I was still nursing a crush I had and take a look at who we ran into…
Me and Gene Simmons (aka the art dude from my first job)
The building itself has this brilliant design. It is built, for the most part below ground and the roof slopes but is also this amazing grassy hill which flattens in an open grassy area. The convention center goes below Lakeside Avenue and above is Mall C, also a grassy area. It truly is a wonderful space and worth all of the (minor) inconveniences. I can say this now.
LasikPlus gave away free ice cream
The opening ceremony ended with the lighting of the torch and fireworks, but in the true spirit of Cleveland weather the heavens opened and it poured. So, we left. Sure it lasted only a few minutes but we came to hear the band so I was good. Besides, Malley’s was beckoning us.
Yes, the kids ate popsicles first and we went after 6
The next morning I started digging to see if there was more and low and behold there is and you would not believe all of the fun (and free) events that they have planned! The complete list is here and it runs all day, every day for the next two weeks. All free and open to the public and that is on top of actually watching the senior games (that list is here).
the view looking up the slope, us at the top and the the view from the bottom looking south
If you are planning a trip to CLE the Convention Center should be on your list of things to see, even if there isn’t a convention going on.
Any surprises this summer that you would like to share?
I am always on the hunt for something free and fun to do with the kids and July in Northeast Ohio is looking to be a very active month! Sure we had a great start to the Summer in Northeast Ohio but... I have also gotten in a rut and have been sticking way to close to home so taking inspiration from Clue into Cleveland’s Amanda and her post on CLE Quick Clips Upcoming Events - I am sharing my summer finds for July!
Fingers crossed the weather stays nice!
Without a lot of hoopla here is my...
Summer Bucket List for July 2013 in Northeast Ohio
Jill is witty and clever and for an afternoon she is sharing her words with us and the proceeds of her appearance will benefit the Agon School. Although I have not read her book yet, I am an avid reader of Jill's blog which is refreshingly honest and she has a talent for making you feel less alone when you feel like the worse. mom. ever.
Want to buy tickets...? Buy them on Eventbright here.
Where?
Shaker Launch House
3558 Lee Road
Shaker Heights, OH 44120
When?
Sunday, June 30, 2013
Tickets
Patron Reception from 2:00-3:00pm
$36 in advance ($42 at the door) (includes tasty snacks)
General Admission from 3:00-4:00pm
$18 in advance ($25 at the door)
It has been a long time since I had to rely on public transportation to get to and from work. In fact, it has been so long that I didn’t have kids to worry about getting to daycare and school or collecting them when sick. So when my great city allowed a big budget Hollywood film to come in and a close a major artery to downtown Cleveland from the suburbs I knew straight away that I would be taking the train to work.
This past Friday was day one of the express way closing and I had planned ahead. I purchased my pass a head of time but did not read the rules. I didn’t activate it first by dipping it in a meter first so I couldn’t swipe it. I remember when taking the train seemed way less complicated and a whole cheaper. Still beats sitting in traffic.
Top 5 tips for Taking Public Transport
1. Make a plan
Call it research or recon but learn about the way things work. Check out your city’s website or phone, don’t wait till you are on the bus or train because bus drivers can be rude when you ask for help and put off by questions. I guess they have good reason; it is not an easy job.
Fares and routes can be found on the website as well as directions on how it all works but prepare to miss something the first day so give your self time. I was a frequent rider years ago and thought I knew what to do and when my pass did not work because it was not activated I was not able to go through the turnstile. Thanks to a rapid police officer who showed me that it had to be activated first in a box or in a fare card box otherwise I would still be standing at the turnstile.
2. Pack a bag
Leave your purse at home and use something practical like a messenger bag or backpack. You want to keep it close to your body and anything valuable closer. If you have a bus pass keep it in a pocket that is easy to get to and get out.
3. Bring something to do on the ride
I always had a book or my iPod and now my kindle. For the cost of the fare these days they really should have wifi on board.
4. Take a snack
I know it seems silly but you never know what could happen and something on the rails going to work or going home can make a longer delay when you are hungry.
5. Enjoy the ride
You don’t have to drive so enjoy the ride.
Since the great powers, in their infinite wisdom, decided to close down one of the most popular ways into downtown from the west side they have created a traffic jam on the streets going in and the highways. Don’t take a bus because the bus will be stuck in that traffic, too. Take the rapid transit, trust me and cheers to the start of a new work week.
This is a Northeast Ohio staple! I have been going almost every year since it was conceived and enjoyed every calorie consumed as well as so many great bands.
The kids and I will be going again this year along with a lucky reader and their guest courtesy of Marc’s Stores! Yep, this post is sponsored by the fine folks at this fantastic event and they are providing tickets for me and a winner + a guest (via rafflecopter at the end) to get in free (and see Rick Springfield)! Free!
the follow up to 
on Sunday, June 30, 2013 and they have given me tickets to go and to give away.
