The Leaves They Are a Changing

We followed our trip to the State Fair with a mini getaway to Boone, NC. Boone is located in the mountains of NC and to our surprise was only about three hours from our home in Durham. We decided to split up the drive a little by making a stop at the Greensboro Children's Museum for Edmund. It was a dreary day and the museum was dimly lit, but it still had a lot to offer. GCM isn't as big as Marbles Museum in Raleigh, nor was it as elaborate as the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia, but it had its own charm and enough novel exhibits to keep Edmund entertained.

From my extensive research into children's museums I have concluded that each one is required to have a grocery store section or risk losing children's museum status, but Edmund wasn't complaining. He would have spent the entire visit in the "grocery store" if we didn't gently guide him someplace else, which after twenty minutes I must admit we did. Edmund found a steam engine in another room and spent the rest of his time there. He happily sang "Down By The Station" while taking tea in one of the box cars. He helped one of the "big boys" shovel coal to keep that train moving and he rang the bell to send the cows a message to get off the tracks. GCM has a plethora of other activities, which I must admit I spent several minutes exploring myself. While I wanted Edmund to be able to experience all the museum had to offer, Steven cautioned me to let Edmund choose what he played with while there. If you'll recall, Edmund was still recovering from a cold, and Edmund is not what you'd call an ideal patient. We were traveling with a ticking time bomb, and it was best just to let him be.

We were able to steer Edmund to a few other exhibits, where he briefly explored a mail room, a pizza shop complete with brick oven, Nonna's house, and a gas tank (another favorite). There was a real fire truck and police car which Edmund had the opportunity to drive , but he ignored these. In another room was a real airplane cockpit with a slide coming out of the emergency exit. This looked like so much fun, but Edmund is still wary of tunnel slides. Perhaps in a year or two he'll realize how awesome it is and his mommy can go down the slide without looking crazy. Edmund ended his museum trip with one last "ride" aboard the train. It was time to hit the road for Boone.

Our drive once we got near Boone was gorgeous as the leaves on the trees were just beginning to change with the autumn weather. We settled into our hotel and headed into the town of Blowing Rock for dinner. Blowing Rock was a quaint town with such personality that we spent much of the time of our two day trip there. The following day we went to the park in the center of Blowing Rock, which Edmund loved. He loved being able to stretch his feet and run after being cooped up in the car while mommy and daddy drove around leaf watching.

Part of the reason we ended up spending so much time in Blowing Rock is that we had to cut short our trip to our main destination, Grandfather Mountain. We had planned our trip to Boone specifically to go to the mountain, but it turns out wind can shut down a mountain. I can't say I blame them. When we arrived at the fudge shop part way up the mountain, the flower pots located outside blew off the porch. Edmund was screaming because the wind was so strong. The fudge makers saw us outside and kindly let us in, despite it being 15 minutes before opening. The fudge makers kept giving Edmund free samples, which he was more than happy to accept, but Steven and I felt a bit guilty as the store wasn't technically open yet. After chatting with the fudge makers about the famous Chapel Hillians who oft made their way to the fudge shop, including the "coach no-one liked, what's his name, Mike Doherty?"(actually Matt for those not in the know), we purchased some delicious cookies and cream fudge and went on our way.

Despite the top of the mountain not being open we were able to visit the Grandfather Mountain museum where we viewed the largest amethyst mined on this continent. Opportunely we also were able to go to the wildlife habitats. To be honest, this was plenty for me. Even if we had gone to the top of the mountain, the chances I'd let my wannabe independent two year old loose on the Mile High Swinging Bridge were nil. Maybe we'll come back in a few years when he's done testing limits. Will that even happen? Make that when he has some a bit more self restraint.

We saw a deer, but those come in our yard and poop on the walkway, so that wasn't anything new. We had the most fun looking at the bears. Edmund was very proud of his observation "bear sticking its tongue out," and indeed it was. From then on Edmund entertained us with his best bear impressions. We had passed the otter enclosure earlier, but figured there was no otter. Then we learned the otter will appear if it hears a girly voice. Edmund still has a girly voice, but I do believe it was I who lured the otter out of his hiding space in its trash can. Once the otter learned I wasn't a zookeeper, thus bearing no treats, it had seen enough and retreated back into its trash can den. I felt a little better that we were able to spot some animals. The wind was still fierce and Edmund was glad to return to the car. Steven was a little disappointed, but at least now we have an excuse to return to Grandfather Mountain in a few years. If Edmund is lucky he may find the bears have a new impression of their own. They'll call it "The Edmund."

Greensboro Children's Museum
220 North Church Street Greensboro NC 27401 Phone: 336-574-2898

Grandfather Mountain
P.O. Box 129 US 221 & Blue Ridge Parkway Linville, NC 28646 Phone: 800-468-7325
*We learned the hard way. Be sure to call to check weather status.

A Fair and A Bear

Edmund and A Bear

Despite two sicknesses and Edmund's new found ability to throw prize-winning temper tantrums, the Pattishalls have managed to have a myriad of adventures over the past two weeks. Steven and I both took off from work last week and got to explore many a thing in NC. Unfortunately, I'll probably only document two of our adventures as memories are fleeting fast, what with my mommy brain and all. We made the decision not to take a laptop on vacation, which made for a much more relaxing time, but means you won't get a second-by-second recap. Come on, you know you wanted one.

The first day of our vacation we headed to Raleigh for the annual NC State Fair. The last time Steven and I went was the year before Edmund was born. Since we had a weekday to take Edmund this year we decided better now than never. For a Tuesday morning, the fair was packed, but we did find space to maneuver the stroller. Edmund was just getting over a cold, so any suggestion of activity was met with a whine and a big, loud "NO." I do believe Edmund enjoyed seeing the pink piglets and grand champion bunnies (one of which he named Puppy) despite his huffing and puffing.

On our last excursion to the State Fair I stumped the carnie at the Guess My Age booth so much I won two prizes. I was 26 at the time and he pegged me for 14. I had grand plans to win Edmund a prize this time, but not only was the guesser within his allotted 3 years, but he aged me 2 years. I guess that's what a child will do to you. Steven said it's because I wasn't in jeans and a t-shirt this time. I've always hated how people think I'm 16, but I don't want to look older than I am either. To make matters worse, no prize for Edmund. Fortunately, we did locate a "win a prize every time" game in the Kiddieland section. Of course we know that means pay $2 for a 50 cent toy, but Edmund relished his chance to catch a fish. In actuality he couldn't get enough of splashing in the water. In the end he "won" a small, white bear, which he descriptively named "A Bear." He seems to be inheriting his naming skills from his mother. We can all be thankful Steven stopped me from naming Edmund "A Baby."

We finished our morning at the fair with some requisite fair food. Steven got a funnel cake, Edmund got a foot-long hot dog, and I got my caramel apple. This writing makes our day sound so peaceful. Stick in a few kicking and screaming fits and you'll get a better picture. A fun morning to be sure, but we have definitely hit the terrible twos.

Edmund's Picks for a Sweet Treat

Doggy Eat Ice Cream

I honestly have got to get better in the picture taking department. I feel so slack now that I rarely have any pictures of our adventures to post. We've probably taken a total of 10 pictures of Edmund since August. I know people who take more than that each day. Part of the problem is my inability to wink. Seriously, I can't wink. I was never very good at those winking games played at birthday parties because it's hard to be subtle when you have to blink or pull down one eyelid with a finger. Digital cameras with their view finding screens have been a lifesaver. Then Steven had to go and get a digital camera with a view finder so small it's worthless. And to think at one point in my life I wanted to be a photographer. I promise photos with the next post...I hope.

Edmund and I have tried out three local sweet treat shops in the last month. Following are Edmund's and my thoughts on what we experienced.

Orange Leaf:
1129 Weaver Dairy Road
Suite V, Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Open Hours: Mon - Sat : 11:00AM - 10:00PM, Sun : 12:00PM - 9:00PM

Tabitha's Take: This is a self-serve frozen yogurt chain that recently made it's way to Chapel Hill. I love that you pump your yogurt flavors by yourself. Unfortunately, for those with small children this can also be a disadvantage. The pumps just happen to be at 2 year old level, so if you have a child as mischievous as mine, you'll be watching him like a hawk. You can choose just one yogurt flavor, or if you can't decide, go for them all. The toppings are also self serve. There have been several toppings at ice cream shops I've always wanted to try, but I hate to pay for a full topping of something I'll end up disliking. At Orange Leaf you can get as much or as little of any topping you choose. The best part...the price is done by weight. For some of you this may be a disadvantage if you like to go all out. For me, someone who simply wants a taste of everything, I always come ahead at these pay by weight places.

Edmund's Take: Pushing a lever to get yogurt out is the most fun I've ever had in my life. The modern chairs were so cool and the little table was just the right size to drip yogurt on. Those screens that have giant pictures of people eating yogurt were awesome. Let's go back again mommy.

Locopops:
Locopops has taken off in the last year. It now has several main locations and many sattellite locations. Check out http://www.ilovelocopops.com/ for business hours and your nearest location. Also check out the Locopops story. It's rather fascinating.

Tabitha's Take: Locopops is a local shop that carries popsicles in both classic and exotic flavors. Before Edmund was born Steven and I would occasionally head over to the Locopops location on Franklin St.in Chapel Hill. That particular Franklin St. location has since closed its doors and moved over to Elliott Rd. in Chapel Hill. While I liked the previous location better for children due to its semi-enclosed courtyard, the new location shares a street with my place of work. You can't beat a hop, skip, and a jump when you're in the mood for a popsicle. I often forget about Locopops until Edmund reminds me when we make a stop at the eye doctor or The Great Harvest Bread Company located on either side. At $2 for a child's popsicle I can almost always scrounge up enough change to get one for Edmund when the mood strikes. You can choose from water or cream based popsicles. I have to say I almost always choose cookies n' cream for Edmund. It's the least likely to get everywhere. I prefer the cream based popsicles myself, but sometimes the water based flavors, such as pomegranite tangerine, are just too intriguing to pass up. The downside to this location is that the outdoor seating is located right next to the parking lot. I don't have to worry too much because Edmund loves sitting in the brightly colored Adirondack chairs, but I have to keep an eye out nevertheless. An added bonus is the free wipes sitting on the counter. They come in very handy when moms such as myself come unprepared for the inevitable stickiness that comes with a popsicle.

Edmund's Take: Locopops are yummy and cold. For some reason mommy never says no to a Locopop, but I'm not complaining. I like to sit in the orange Adirondack chair. I always meet a new friend at Locopops. I love big kids and I'm so outgoing I'll start chatting with anyone. I like to start my conversations with "boy sitting in the pink chair. My daddy sleeps at hospital." Somehow I always make new friends this way. Mommy and daddy say they don't know where I get my outgoing personality. I hear they're both a little shy. I never want to share my Locopop with mommy, but she makes me because she says I'm taking too long to eat it. I think that's just her cover story. I'm on to you mommy.

Lickity Split:
503 Meadowmont Village Cir Chapel Hill, NC 27517
(919) 929-8402 (call for hours)
Lickity Split also sells hot dogs, but on Sunday you can only get dessert. So if you're in the mood for a hot dog and ice cream like I was one Sunday, you'll be out of luck.

Tabitha's Take: I went here about 6 years ago right before my parents' move and a slightly trying time in my life. My parents were living in an apartment nearby and a friend (I use that term loosely) and I decided we should try it. I honestly don't remember a thing about my first visit and honestly didn't think I'd go back. Then I read some blog entries about this being a fun place for kids, so I decided to try it with Edmund. I loved the ice cream decor. It truly reminded me of an old-fashioned ice cream parlor. When I saw Lickity Split offered peppermint ice cream I couldn't pass it up. That was my favorite flavor as a child and unfortunately is also a difficult flavor to locate. I ordered vanilla for Edmund (again less messy). Of course Edmund wanted my brightly colored peppermint, but he didn't seem to like it. It was a bit funny to watch his confusion as he ate the ice cream. "This ice cream looks fun, but I don't like it. I'll eat my vanilla, but wait that ice cream looks fun. I need to eat the fun one, but wait I don't like it." That's about how our ice cream excursion went once we had ordered. Lickity Split has a train table and children's games in the back. I really liked this because I could order without having to constantly worry about Edmund. I could see him and knew he wasn't going to run out the door or into a street. He was content playing with trains and wasn't hanging on me as I tried to make an ice cream decision. I've mentioned before we don't use the stroller much, but this can be a problem when I try to take Edmund somewhere by myself. Edmund may or may not have tried to slip out the door once while I was doing the single parenting thing one Friday night at our favorite pizza place. I saw him pushing the door open and had to drop what I was doing to stop my little escapee. So train table...huge plus for those solo outings.

Edmund's Take: I wanted to sit at the table with ice cream cone pictures. The other tables were colorful, but ice cream pictures can't be beat. The train table was fun, but then I saw the show "Maggie and the Beast" on the tv in the corner. I kept saying "what's that mommy" as the silly cartoon creature talked to the red headed little girl. Mommy seemed a bit frustrated that I seemed more interested in the tv than the ice cream I had begged for all day, but hey I know I've got to take tv when I can get it. Mommy chose a funny flavor. I think I'll stick with my white ice cream, but I told mommy next time I'm going to get brown.

And the winner is...Locopops. All the places were good, but you can't beat a $2 treat, made with local ingredients, within walking distance from work. Locopops is simple, a room with a freezer full of popsicles, but sometimes simple is all you need.

Wave Your Pennants

*Flyleaf Story Time*

For awhile there I was keeping to my promise of updating the blog more frequently. Then life set in. If blogging were my daily job you'd have daily posts, but I have a daytime job that takes priority. Oh phooey! The past two weeks I've been preparing for parent-teacher conferences. The conferences in themselves aren't that bad, but the preparation takes my every waking moment. I've never been in the 2 year old room and I must say the seven portfolios I now have to keep up with versus the three I had become accustomed to in the infant room are much more daunting and time consuming. These children have better documentation of their short 2 year old lives than I have of my whole 29 years. Conferences aren't done yet, but the write-ups and portfolios are up to date, so I have more time to write about what I love, Edmund's adventures.

Yesterday Edmund and I hopped on over to story time at a relatively new independent bookstore in Chapel Hill, called Flyleaf. As a working mom I've always felt Edmund and I must be missing out on a childhood rite of passage. It seems every stay-at-home mom I know, and even those I don't know, live to take their children to story times. Because most story times occur during school hours, Edmund and I haven't had an opportunity to attend. Sure there's the occasional story time at Sea of Learning, but those are major events centered around characters. Thus, I've been looking for the quintessential story time for Edmund and I to attend ever since he demonstrated a love a reading.

Last month, the day after Edmund received his cherry flavored medicine, Edmund had a day at home with mom to fully recuperate. Edmund hadn't been on antibiotics for 24 hours, so he couldn't return to school, but he was well enough to attend a story time at Barnes and Noble. One of the employees read two books about trains while the majority of children in attendance ran around the store. Edmund will listen to any story, so he sat and enjoyed, oblivious to the chaos around him. The employee's reading left something to be desired. The "craft" that followed was a coloring sheet of a train, which Edmund had no interest in completing. If my early childhood professors had anything to say about the coloring sheets they would probably have collected them all and burned them.

I left the Barnes and Noble story time feeling better about not having the availability to take Edmund. Was it a waste of time? No. We were able to get out of the house for a few minutes after having been cooped up for days and Edmund got to hear a story. Could I have done a better job myself? Not to toot my own horn, but yes. Thus, when I found out about Flyleaf's new offering of a story time on Saturday I didn't have high hopes. Edmund and I went because Steven was working and I needed to get out of the house before I went stir-crazy.

There were only a handful of children at Flyleaf's first Saturday story time. I loved the intimate feel. I'm sure as word spreads the story time will fill up, but I must say it was nice to have a group of kids who truly wanted to listen to the books. The day's theme was sports and the employee, Sarah, had picked out three books for a variety of ages. The first book was slightly advanced for Edmund, but he listened just the same. Sarah was a great reader. She clearly had read the books beforehand and her enthusiasm for each and every book shone through. She did voices and if the books called for a little dance or cheer, she made up a little dance or cheer. The children were thoroughly engaged. When she finished reading, one little girl brought over a book about the potty. Sarah didn't turn her away, but added the book to her line-up. She knew the book and read it with just as much energy as she had the books she had prepared.

When she finished reading, Sarah led the children and parents into the conference room for a craft. The children were able to design their own pennants using foam flags, letters, and sports balls. Edmund got into this since the majority of balls were stickers. He also found an E sticker for Edmund to proudly display on his pennant. He especially liked that the big basketball he found required glue. He's all about the glue these days, and lots of it. There were indeed the prerequisite story time coloring sheets, which Edmund of course ignored, but the older girls who were present spent quite a bit of time coloring. I liked the fact the crafts truly met the theme and kids had the opportunity to be as creative as they wanted.

If we are able, Edmund and I will be back next month. Sarah told us that library science students from UNC will be practicing their story telling skills then. It sounds like a blast. We rounded out the morning with a trip to one of my favorite restaurants, Fosters, conveniently located right next to Flyleaf. By the time we finished with story time, the craft, and our own reading session in the children's section it was 11:00. The perfect time for a brunch at Foster's and the perfect way to end a morning out at story time.

Location: Flyleaf Books 752 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. (Historic Airport Rd.) Chapel Hill, NC 27514

For events and story time listings see link in posting.

*I apologize for yet another lack of an Edmund picture. I finally remembered the camera, but when I went to get a great shot of Edmund with his pennant I discovered the battery was completely dead.