Watauga Education Foundation Flapjack Flip & Boone Service League Holiday Market Dec 6

November 25, 2014 by Sarah

The Watauga Education Foundation continues their yearly tradition on Saturday, December 6 by holding the Flapjack Flip Pancake Breakfast (7:30am – 11:30am) at Watauga High School.

The event will be held at the Watauga High School. And, the Boone Service League will present their annual Holiday Market in Conjuction with the Flapjack Flip, for a one stop Breakfast and shopping experience.

Here is the scoop from the Watauga Education Foundation:

Join us for a morning of flapjacks, fun and fellowship and, of course, shopping! Back this year, your Principals serving up coffee and making “tips” which go directly to your school. The Boone Service League will be hosting its Holiday Market too, so there will be great gift ideas. It’s the perfect way to start your Holiday and to make a difference for the students of Watauga County.

There will be a raffle and a silent auction.

Photos With Santa

Come and tell Santa your Christmas wishes and have your photo made for just $15. Package includes:

* 1 – 8×10
* 2 – 5×7
* 4 – 4×6

Plus you keep the high resolution image to make more photos!

Boone Service League Holiday Market

This event is scheduled for December 6, 2014 at the Watauga High School. A wide variety of vendors will be set up to offer a potpourri of ideal gifts for anyone’s shopping list. There will be hand-crafted jewelry, ornaments, doggy boots, pottery, cards, paintings, hair accessories, Christmas wreaths, felted wool and cashmere items, luggage tags, embroidery, garden décor, tote bags, purses and much, much more. Enjoy a delicious breakfast and complete more of your holiday shopping all in one convenient location. By doing so, you will be supporting those in need in the High Country..

High Country Mommies Spring Yard Sale and Vendor Fair

February 20, 2012 by Sarah

Have you heard about the High Country Mommies? HighCountryMommies.com is an online and in-person community for moms in Watauga, Ashe and Avery counties. While this site, HighCountryParent.com is an online “magazine” or blog, you can actually join High Country Mommies, interact in their online forums, and attend live meetups.

HCM will be hosting a Spring Yard Sale and Vendor Fair next door to the new Aarons (368 HWY 105 Ext, Boone) on Saturday, February 25th starting at 9 am. You can shop the yard sale, peruse local vendors, and also donate items for local charities.

At the event, there will be a huge variety of items for anyone in your family, from womb to retirement:

household necessities
clothing
toys
vehicles
climbing/hiking/camping gear
cribs, baby essentials and gear, diapers
furniture
computers,televisions, movies, electronics,
home decorating items, antiques, collectibles
yard care necessities
personal care items, handmade items
eco-friendly toys
much much more.

There will also be a few local vendors there with deals, coupons and freebies. If you enjoy a good second hand thrift store or consignment sale, you will love our family garage sale!

We will also be collecting donations of clothing, toys and household necessities to give to local non-profit organizations that benefit families in need in the High Country.

About HighCountryMommies.com

As part of The Mommies Network, HighCountryMommies.com is a free community for moms in Ashe, Avery, and Watauga Counties, North Carolina. HighCountryMommies.com offers a simple way to connect with local moms for friendship, support and fun. Members meet on our private discussion forums to share advice and offer support. We also offer many face-to-face events for our members, their children and their families.

Filed Under: Coupons Sales and Specials, Shopping

Kids in the Kitchen: After School Healthy Cooking Classes

February 18, 2012 by Sarah

UPDATE: The start of the Kids in the Kitchen program has been postponed, due to snow. The first day will be Monday, February 27. There is still plenty of time to sign up!

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Kids in the Kitchen is a new after school program in the High Country. Chetola Resort has teamed up with EarthFare in Boone to offer healthy cooking classes, nutrition information, active fun, and even guided homework time! Earth Fare will be providing all the food for the cooking classes, and will do a couple of healthy snack demos for the kids as well.

Parents get a huge perk while your child is enrolled in the program. Parents can come workout and use Chetola’s pool/jacuzzi/sauna facilities for a special drop in rate of only $7 while their kids are in the program. That’s a great deal! The whole family benefits from access to the Chetola pool and rec area on Snow Days and Teacher Work Days!

The daily schedule is as follows:

2:45-4:00 pm: Cooking/Nutrition Class
4:00-5:00 pm: Pool Play and Games
5:00-6:00 pm: Pick-up/ Supervised Homework Time

Kids in the Kitchen

WHEN: Mondays, Feb 20-March 26, 2012

WHERE Chetola Resort

WHO: Suggested for children in grades 3-6, however others will be considered. Homeschool kids welcome too!

FEE: $25 per session, $20 for each additional child.

$120 for entire 6-class series ($30 discount),

$15/$90 per child for Chetola Club Members

For more information or to register your child, call 828.295.5533 or email catherine@chetola.com

You can sign up anytime, but the program starts Monday, so be sure to call soon!

Filed Under: Education, For Kids and Families, Health & Fitness

Kids’ After-School Fitness Fun at Chetola

January 17, 2012 by Sarah

There is a new after-school option on Wednesdays for K-5 students in the High Country! Chetola Resort at Blowing Rock is offering an after-school program with a fitness focus, in a fun atmosphere. Ruthie Lile, Recreation Program Coordinator, and Chetola fitness staff will facilitate organized fitness activities and supervised pool play. The fitness activities include Field Games, Circuits, Yoga, Hiking, Aqua Games, Active Scavenger Hunts and more.

Afternoon Schedule

January 11-May 30, Wednesdays

2:45-3:00 Healthy Snack

3:00-3:45 Fitness Activity

4:00-4:45 Pool Play

5:00-6:00 Supervised Homework Time and Pickup

Fees:

$25 per session for the first child

$20 for each additional child

$15 per child, for club members

Transportation:

If you would like van transportation for your children (from Blowing Rock School only), there is a $2 additional fee.

BONUS:

As an added bonus, families who sign up for a full month of Fitness Fun may use the pool and rec area on Snow Days! We’ve only had a few snow days so far, but you never know how many are in the future!

To sign up, or for more information, call (828) 295-5535, or email catherine@chetola.com

Filed Under: For Kids and Families, Things To Do

Beauty and the Beast 3D Review

January 16, 2012 by Sarah

It was the summer of 1992, I had just graduated High School, and was a counselor at a YMCA Camp. One of my best friends, Kiki, and I had the most fun that summer! More crazy adventures and laughs of any year, before or after. One night, on a whim, we decided to pop the newest Disney movie, Beauty and the Beast, in the old VCR. What? You don’t remember VCR tapes? They’re basically like DVDs, only huge and square. Think “bag phone” as opposed to the iPhone.

Anyway, as 18-year-olds with wacky sense of humor, much hilarity ensued as we accused our image-conscious guy friends of being Gaston, and wrote a parody which is forever lost in a box at the bottom of Kiki’s basement. (Do you still have that Kiki?)

So… I was delighted when my three girls and I had a chance to see Beauty and the Beast in 3D at Regal Cinemas in Boone. I have actually never seen Beauty and the Beast on the big screen, despite it being one of my favorite animated films. But I wasn’t sure about presenting a hand-drawn film in 3D. It could either be really cool, or kind of cheesy.

Our girls’ night out began with adorable special edition 3D glasses, branded with “Beauty and the Beast,” for the girls. I was a little disappointed that I just got the plain black ones, but whatevs. As the opening scene unfolded on the screen, I knew that the 3D version of this classic tale was going to be fantastic.

The Story

What better story to present to my daughters, than a strong young woman who sees past narcissistic men, loves learning, and values true beauty? If they grow up to be like Belle, I will be one blessed mother. The comedy is ingenius, the characters endearing, and the scary parts are not too freaky for the 6-year-old. I always laugh when Gaston says, “Every last inch of me’s covered with HAIR!” I always cry when Gaston stabs the Beast, and Belle think he’s dead. I also appreciated the fact that there is no political propaganda in this movie. Too many kids’ movies today make me feel like I’m being indoctrinated into the cause d’jour. But aside from the emphasis on becoming an educated woman, and holding out for true beauty, it was just a great story.

The Look

There’s something about a hand-drawn Disney movie. In this age of Blu-Ray, and animatronics, it’s quaint to know that there is a real live artist putting his vision on paper. Combining the nostalgia of the old-style film with the cutting edge 3D technology was brilliant. It worked beautifully. When Belle first appeared in her yellow gown to dance with the Beast, we let out a gasp. But by far, my favorite 3D scene was “Be Our Guest.” The dishes, napkins and food dancing in the air was novel when the movie first came out, but it was spectacular in 3D.

Our Conclusion

The only thing we didn’t like about this movie was when it was over. Seriously, if you’re looking for an excellent night out with your kids (or by yourself for that matter), this movie is a sure bet. We ate dinner at a Mexican restaurant after the movie, and Ava couldn’t help but use the chips for fangs and pretend she was the Beast.

She asked me to put this picture on my blog, with a talk bubble 😉

Did you see the movie? What did you think?

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Beauty & the BeastB 3D is playing at the Regal Cinemas at New Market Center. Check the show times here.

Filed Under: Other

Build Confidence with Acting Classes Starting in February!

January 14, 2012 by Sarah

I’ve always been comfortable on a stage, as far back as I could remember. I would prefer to be under the lights in front of 1000 people rather than perform for a small group, any day. I grew up dancing, singing and acting, and for the most part, stage fright doesn’t rear it’s ugly head. Interestingly enough, I have phone anxiety, so it makes me more nervous to call someone than speak to a large crowd.

Enough about me, you already know I’m weird. What about you? Are you nervous speaking up in a meeting? Do you long to express yourself with acting? Do you want to overome that sinking feeling when you stand at a podium?

Meet Hanna Rasco: wife, mom, talented actor, and theater teacher. She’s offering some classes you might be interested in. Even if you don’t want to audition for Wicked, her class can help in so many ways. Here is all the information:

Whether you are looking to express yourself dynamically onstage, at the podium, in group meetings or in everyday situations this class is for you. Using improv technique you will improve control of your voice, discover techniques to channel “stage fright,” gain confidence, and learn to make your body work for you in a fun, interactive environment. Everyone has within them a unique way of expressing themselves that is compelling to others. Let this class help you find yours.

WHEN:

Thursdays Evenings, 12 week session. Classes begin February 2, 2012
Youth (8th-12thgrades) 4:30- 6:00 pm
Adult 6:30-8:00pm

WHERE:

App Rhythm Clogging and Dance Studio
249 Wilson Drive
Suite 3
Boone, NC 28607

HOW MUCH: $120.00

CLASS LIMIT: 12

Each student will be given the opportunity to perform one monologue and
one scene at an end-of-the-class performance.

CONTACT: Hanna Rasco, hanna.rasco@gmail.com

Hanna has been teaching and directing theatre for the past 10 years. It is
her passion to share her love of performing with others and to help them
pursue their dreams with excellence.

Filed Under: For Kids and Families Tagged With: acting class, hanna rasco, theater

The High Country Mom Squad is now “High Country Parent”

January 9, 2012 by Sarah

Welcome! If you typed “www.highcountrymomsquad.com” into your browser, or traveled here through a link, you may be a little surprised.

High Country Mom Squad is now “High Country Parent!” Don’t worry, all of the helpful content is still here, and our new format is even easier to navigate. We hope you will be able to better find any information you need about families in the NC High Country!

Our most popular pages are listed at the top, like Kids Eat Free, and Moms’ Groups . Take a moment to explore the article categories, such as food, things to do, parenting, and coupons 101. If you have any questions about how to get around the site,leave a comment here and we’ll help you!

Why did we make the change? We felt it was time to embrace all parents, not just moms. I get comment from dads who read the site, saying they feel a little “funny” reading a “mom site.” So in order to embrace moms, dads, grandparents, and even other family members, we’ve changed our name to reflect that.

High Country Parent contributors will be providing new and insightful articles each day, so be sure to check back often.

Becky will be writing about Natural Health, Childbirth, and Green Living
Barb will continue posting scrumptious recipes and food goodness.
Keri shares fun things to do each weekend in our Thursday “Weekend Events” article.
Cindy provides helpful tips and stories for homeschooling moms. Her insights can enrich not just homeschoolers, but any parenting experience.

You can help us spread the word! See those sharing buttons on the left of the page? Chose your favorite (or 2 or 3) and SHARE!!

Subscribe by email to stay informed:

Click here to get daily articles delivered to your inbox.
To receive our Weekly Email Update, enter your email address here

So? How do you like the new site? Tell us in the comments.

Filed Under: Other

Children are Welcome at Boone’s Only Nutcracker Ballet Performance

December 4, 2011 by Sarah

Nutcracker Boone NC

‘Tis the Season, yet again! Not only the Christmas holiday season, but Nutcracker Ballet season as well! December 9-11, hundreds of children and adults from Studio K Youth Ballet take the stage at Farthing Auditorium on the ASU Campus. Snowflakes twirl, soldier dolls leap, and the Sugar Plum Fairy dazzles the audience.

The great thing about this presentation of the Nutcracker Ballet is that children of all ages are welcome. “Hundreds of children will grace the stage, and we hope that many children will fill the audience as well.” Ballet director Cay Harkins said. “I’ve had parents tell me their toddlers, and even infants, were mesmerized throughout the whole performance. And if the kids are inspired to dance in the aisles, that’s OK too.”

So don’t worry about shushing your kids when they gasp at the magic of the Nutcracker, as he transforms into the Prince. Just bring the whole family and be prepared to have a lot of fun. Watch this video for a preview of what you’ll see.

Showtimes are as follows:

Friday, December 9 at 7:00 PM
Saturday, December 10 at 7:00 PM
Sunday, December 11 at 3:00 PM

For more information and to order tickets, call Farthing auditorium at 1-800-841-2787 or 828-262-4046 or email boxoffice@appstate.edu

Disclosure: My entire family is in the show this year! Look for a Rat, Angel, Reed Flute, Chinese Tea, and Candyland girl. I can finally say that my husband is a rat. .

Filed Under: For Kids and Families

7 Common Questions Parents Have About Orthodontic Treatment (WIN Kids’ Sonicare!)

November 1, 2011 by Sarah

Reed Orthodontics is an orthodontic practice in Boone, located at 870 State Farm Road. After practicing in Ocala and Crystal River, Florida for 35 years and treating over 10,000 patients, Dr. Reed transitioned his practice to his son and moved to Boone to provide orthodontic care to this community.

Dr. Reed would like to share this information from the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). If you have any questions, leave a comment below, visit their website at www.ReedOrthoBoone.com, or call Reed Orthodontics at 828-286-9797 for a FREE consultation. I took my 8-year-old daughter for a consultation with Dr. Reed. You can see a video of our visit on the right! ~ Sarah

7 Common Questions Parents Have About Orthodontic Treatment

Today, nearly four million children in the United States and Canada are receiving treatment from members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). And while parents know that orthodontic treatment results in a healthy, beautiful smile, many don’t realize the important long-term health benefits.   As part of its commitment to education, the AAO provides parents with this list of answers to commonly asked questions about orthodontic care.

1. Why is orthodontic treatment important?

Straight teeth and properly aligned jaws contribute to good dental health, as well as overall physical health. Orthodontic treatment can boost a person’s self-image as teeth, lips and jaws move into position and improve appearance.

2. How can a parent know if his/her child needs orthodontic treatment?

The best way to know whether your child needs treatment is to visit an orthodontist. The AAO recommends that every child get a check-up with an orthodontist no later than age seven.

3. What if my child still has baby teeth at age seven? Should he/she still see an orthodontist?

Yes. By age 7, enough permanent teeth have arrived for an orthodontist to evaluate how the teeth and jaws meet, and to identify current or developing problems. If your orthodontist finds a problem, he/she can discuss with parents any treatment that may be necessary.

4. How does a child’s growth affect orthodontic treatment?

Treatment and growth often complement each other. In some cases, the orthodontist takes advantage of a child’s growth to guide jaws and teeth into their ideal positions.

5. How often should my child visit our orthodontist while in orthodontic treatment?

Typically, a child will see the orthodontist every 6-12 weeks throughout the course of treatment.

6. If I currently don’t have an orthodontist, what is the best way to find someone to treat orthodontic problems?

To find an orthodontist near you, ask for a referral from your family dentist or you can visit www.braces.org and click on the Find an Orthodontist service. It is important to choose an orthodontist who is a member of the AAO. Orthodontists receive an additional two to three years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth. Only those with this formal education may call themselves “orthodontists,” and only orthodontists may be members of the AAO.

7. What is the average cost of orthodontic treatment?

Fees will vary, depending on the treatment needed and can usually only be determined following a clinical examination. Most orthodontists offer convenient payment plans, making treatment more affordable than ever. Most orthodontists will work with you to find a plan that fits your family budget. In addition, many patients have dental insurance that includes
orthodontic benefits or a Flexible Spending Account which allows a portion of the orthodontic fee to be paid with tax free dollars. Check with your employer’s human resources department to learn about your insurance coverage or Flexible Spending Account.

Win a Kids’ Sonicare Toothbrush ($69.99 Value)

Reed Orthodontics would like to award one Mom Squad reader a Kids’ Sonicare Toothbrush! This is not just another toothbrush, for sure. Here are some of the features of the Sonicare Toothbrush:

KidTimer increases brushing time slowly over 90 days, building toward the dentist recommended 2 minutes.
Kid-friendly power modes provide gentle cleaning that’s right for different ages. Low mode for ages 4+ and High mode for ages 7+.
Age-appropriate brush heads specifically designed to gently clean and protect teeth at key developmental stages.
Ergonomic design enables parents and kids to brush together or on their own.
Interchangeable panels so kids can customize their toothbrush

Here is how to enter:

Visit the Reed Orthodontics website FAQ page. Then come back to this post, and leave a comment sharing something you learned.

Extra entries: Leave a separate comment if you:

are a MomSquad RSS Subscriber (get free daily updates by email) (enter your email at the top of the page for weekly-ish newsletter)
follow HCmomsquad on Twitter
Tweet about this giveaway. Here’s a sample tweet:

Learn more about Reed Orthodontics, and #WIN a Sonicare Kids’ Toothbrush from @hcmomsquad!

(Because of Facebook’s new rules for promotions, we are not allowed to give you an entry for posting the giveaway on Facebook. But we would be very grateful if you wanted to!)

Details: This contest will be open to High Country Residents or Visitors 18 or older, through November 11, 2011. One winner will be chosen by random number generator, and notified by email. Winner will be responsible for claiming the prize by email.

Filed Under: Giveaways and Contests, Health & Fitness Tagged With: Boone, orthodontist, reed orthodontics

Outdoor Festivals in the NC High Country this Fall

September 16, 2011 by Sarah

For the last several years, we have tried to publish a comprehensive list of all the Fall Festivals within 50 miles of Boone! Well, this year is no exception. Our newest contributor, Becky Webb, has compiled all the new information on the aptly named High Country Fall Festivals page.

My favorite festivals each year are Banner Elk’s Wooly Worm Festival, the Valle Crucis Fair, and the Tweeetsie Railroad Halloween Festival & Ghost Train.

So, click here to visit the list of festivals, and leave a comment telling us YOUR favorite festival! Did we miss one? Add it in the comments, with a link to the info.

Autumn Festivals .

Filed Under: For Kids and Families

Watauga Education Foundation Flapjack Flip & Boone Service League Holiday Market Dec 6

High Country Mommies Spring Yard Sale and Vendor Fair

Kids in the Kitchen: After School Healthy Cooking Classes

Kids in the Kitchen