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February 16, 2012
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Hello From Sunny Florida

Every February we visit family in Florida and it never gets old...it is great to escape from the cold in the middle of the winter.  My boys are having a blast swimming in the huge pool (see picture) and running around, they seemed to have stored lots of energy in the last few months.

I tried my very best to find all of the great things-to-do during February Vacation Week, but please forgive me if I missed something (my brain is in vacation mode).  I will continue looking around for events/activities going on and will add them to the calendar as I find them, make sure to check back often for new stuff.  Take a look at the Rhode Island State Parks website, they have some fun school vacation activities planned!

Check out this GREAT Macaroni Deal!  You can purchase PRESALE PASSES for the RI Kid's Consignment Sale!!

This week:
February is Children's Dental Health Month - Week Three - Visiting the Dentist
Random Act of Kindness Day - February 17th - What Goes Around Comes Around! 
Great Backyard Bird Count: February 17-20 - It's easy to help save the birds! 
Providence Bruins - Ticket Giveaway!
Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam - Ticket WINNER and Discount Code! 
Kings Cake - Quick and Easy Recipe! 
New Orleans Jambalaya
Mardi Gras Masks - Made out of Duct Tape!

If you know of an event that you would like listed in the calendar, contact me (heatherw@macaronikid.com) or click on the NEW "Submit an Event" button!  

Thank you for being a Macaroni Kid Cranston/Kent subscriber and please share Macaroni Kid with your family and friends!  Be sure to visit our Facebook and Pinterest pages too.

Enjoy the newsletter, have a great week and get ready for school vacation!!

~heather


February is Children's Dental Health Month

Week Three - Visiting the Dentist

Children's National Dental Health Month is dedicated to promoting a lifetime of great dental health for your child. During the month of February, it is my hope that you will benefit from the "tips" in this newsletter regarding important dental topics for your child, which are all guidelines provided to parents, children and dentists by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry,  (www.aapd.org) including: 

*Toothbrushing/Flossing* - *Nutrition *  -  *Dental Visits* - *Thumb/Finger/Pacifier Habits*  and *What to Do if your Child Injures a Tooth*

I hope you had a ...


Random Act of Kindness Day - February 17th

What Goes Around Comes Around!

We here at Macaroni Kid challenge you to pay it forward on February 17th to as many people as you possibly can! Any good deed will do, and once you start we know that it will be very difficult to stop!

Donate a book, buy a stranger a cup of coffee, purchase a train or bus ticket for the person behind you in line, buy a stranger a lottery ticket, forgive someone who has wronged you, bake cookies by your local fire house or simply pass on a kind smile ...


Great Backyard Bird Count: February 17-20

It's easy to help save the birds!

The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) is an annual event (now in it's 15th year!) that gives the public an opportunity to help scientists track the whereabouts of bird species across the continent. All it requires is at least 15 minutes a day (you can put in more time) for 4 days. This year it's from February 17-20. 

How does it work? Participants count birds for at least 15 minutes per day during the designated four-day period from anywhere they choose. Despite the name, it doesn't have ...

Providence Bruins

Ticket Giveaway!

Would you like to take your family to a Providence Bruins game?  Enter to WIN 4 tickets to a Providence Bruins game of your choice (depending on ticket availability) at the Dunkin' Donuts Center!!

*To be eligible to win the Providence Bruins tickets, you MUST be a Macaroni Kid Cranston/Kent subscriber. If you are not you can go here to subscribe for our free weekly newsletter. It only takes a minute!
 
For your first entry:  Comment below and tell me your favorite sport

For an extra entry:  Post the ...


Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam

Ticket WINNER and Discount Code!

The Monster Jam ticket WINNER is:  Teri Leduc

Congrats!  You will be contacted by email with details!

Monster Jam is coming to Providence from Febuary 24th - 26th 

Welcome to Monster Jam, an incredible family-friendly experience starring the biggest performers on four wheels: Monster Jam Monster Trucks! These twelve-feet-tall, ten-thousand-pound machines will bring you to your feet, racing and ripping up a custom-designed track full of obstacles to soar over OR smash through. Monster Jam provides a massive night's entertainment tailored perfectly for your family's budget, and these colorful ...

This Week's Picks:

February 18th through February 22nd

Saturday, February 18 - American Girl Tea Party

Introducing McKenna, the 2012 American Girl of the Year! Join us for discussions, games, crafts and more. 
Where: Barnes & Noble - Warwick Centre, 1350-B Bald Hill Rd, Warwick
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Open to girls ages 6 and up.
How: Sign up in the Children's Department. 
Cost: FREE
For more info: 401-826-8885
Add to My Macaroni

Tuesday, February 21 - Chocolate Fest - CPL Hall

We will be making cake pops and playing chocolate related games. 
Where: Cranston Public Library - William Hall Branch
When: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Ages 9 +
How: Please register  781-2450
Cost: FREE
For more info: Call Megan Weeden 781-2450
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Wednesday, February 22 - There's a LLAMA in the LIBRARY! - WWPL

There's a LLAMA in the LIBRARY! (a real llama from Dandy Acres Llama Farm!) Learn all about REAL llamas!   Bring your camera!    
Where: West Warwick Public Library
When: 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Who: For Families with children of all ages!
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
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Wednesday, February 22 - Magic Show - Grades K - 3 -WPL

Magician Debbie o'Carroll presents: The Amazing American Animals Magic Show! 
Where: Warwick Public Library - Children's Program Room
When: 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Who: For families with kids ages 3 and up!
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 401-739-5440 ext. 6
Add to My Macaroni

This Week's Calendar:

February 16th through February 22nd

Thursday, February 16 - Free Craft at Learn All About It

Stop by and choose a craft to make.
Where: Learn All About It 300 Quaker Lane, Warwick
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: All Ages!
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: www.learnallaboutittoys.com or 401-921-5951
Add to My Macaroni

Thursday, February 16 - Dinosaurs

Roar! Dinosaurs for Storytime! Do you have a favorite? Miss Rose will be reading many dinosaur tales today and making a dinosaur puppet.
Where: Barnes & Noble - Warwick Centre, 1350-B Bald Hill Rd, Warwick
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Kids!
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 826-8885
Add to My Macaroni

Thursday, February 16 - Preschool Storytime Ages 3-5 - WPL

A half hour storytime for children ready to go off on their own. No grownups allowed, take time for yourself.
Where: Warwick Public Library - Children's Program Room
When: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Children 3 - 5
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 401-739-5440 ext. 6
Add to My Macaroni

Thursday, February 16 - Book Babies - CPL Hall

Babies from birth to 24 months (with a favorite adult) enjoy songs, action rhymes, and playtime and share a book together in each lively Book Babies session. Book Babies gives your baby the opportunity to hear lots of language while you get to know other young families.
Where: Cranston Public Library - William Hall Branch
When: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Babies - 2 year olds and their caregivers
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: Call Megan Weeden 781-2450
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Thursday, February 16 - Chill Out Thursdays - CPL Hall

Relax and hang out with your friends after-school (downstairs in the library). Have a snack, play a game.
Where: Cranston Public Library - William Hall Branch
When: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Ages 9 - 16
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: Call Megan Weeden 781-2450
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Friday, February 17 - Free Craft at Learn All About It

Stop by and choose a craft to make.
Where: Learn All About It 300 Quaker Lane, Warwick
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: All Ages!
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: www.learnallaboutittoys.com or 401-921-5951
Add to My Macaroni

Friday, February 17 - Free Craft at Learn All About It

Stop by and choose a craft to make.
Where: Learn All About It 300 Quaker Lane, Warwick
When: 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Who: All Ages!
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: www.learnallaboutittoys.com or 401-921-5951
Add to My Macaroni

Saturday, February 18 - Little Yoga

Taught by Ms. Rebecca who is fully licensed and insured.  This class in every Saturday.
Where: Loved Again - 909 Warwick Ave, Warwick
When: 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Who: Children ages 3 - 10
How: Pre-register or just show up
Cost: $16/class or $75/5 classes and it comes with a $5 store credit.
For more info: http://www.LovedAgainRI.com
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Saturday, February 18 - Children's Yoga Class - Kite Tails

Join Miss Nora for a fun yoga class filled with movement, songs, crafts, and stretching! Yoga is a great tool to help kids learn to control and relax their busy bodies!
Where: 6320 Post Road, North Kingstown
When: 9:30 AM - 10:15 AM
Who: Class is for ages 3-6
How: Register or just show up!
Cost: $2 per class (plus admission)
For more info: http://www.kitetailsplaycenter.com/
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Saturday, February 18 - My Little Log Cabin

Presidents' Day is extra-special...with a log-cabin collage kids will love to make!
Where: Lakeshore Learning - Marshall's Plaza 1400 Oaklawn Ave
When: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Who: Kids!
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 463-8800
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Saturday, February 18 - Celebrate The Junior League with the PC Friars!

PC Friars basketball will celebrate the Junior League of Rhode Island at their game against Georgetown!  Come cheer on the Friars as they play one of the country's top-ranked teams, and support Junior League member Sarah Jane Klump as she sings the National Anthem!   The game will feature a number of Junior League events, including: On-court Junior League presentation, Kids' high-five session with players and 90th birthday message for the Junior League on the Jumbotron   
Where: Dunkin' Donuts Center
When: 7:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Purchase tickets ($15 for lower level - a $20 value!) by accessing this link and entering promo code JUNIORLEAGUE
Cost: Enjoy discounted tickets ($15 for lower level - a $20 value!) by accessing this link and entering promo code JUNIORLEAGUE
For more info: Visit www.jlri.org for details, or check out our Facebook events page at Junior League Facebook Events
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Monday, February 20 - Ezra Keats Storytime

Join us on your school vacation for a special Ezra Keats Storytime in honor of Black History Month.
Where: Barnes & Noble - Warwick Centre, 1350-B Bald Hill Rd, Warwick
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Everyone!
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info:  826-8885
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Tuesday, February 21 through Wednesday, February 22 - Play Gym at Dream Big Gymnastics

This is a non-structured 3 hour open gym playtime on Tuesday and Wednesday each week.  The gym is open for the children to run and play around.  There will always be a coach in the gym for supervision.  Children get a chance to get a feel for the sport at their own pace. Kids can run and play in a real gym! They have balance beams, bars to swing on, rings, a giant swing, a trampoline, a parachute and lots of games. 
Where: 41 Comstock Parkway, Cranston
When: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Who: Kids up to age 5
How: Just show up
Cost: $10 for the first child and $3 each additional child in same family.
For more info: http://www.dreambiggym.com/
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Tuesday, February 21 - Babies and Books - WPL

Fifteen minutes of stories and songs followed by independent play and socialization.
Where: Warwick Public Library - Children's Program Room
When: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Birth to 2 years old.
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 401-739-5440 ext. 6
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Tuesday, February 21 - Hooray for Seuss! - Coventry

Children are invited to celebrate the popular Dr. Seuss story, The Lorax!  The film version is to be released on March 2nd. Crafts, games, activities and refreshments will be presented Seuss-style! 
Where: Coventry Public Library
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Children ages 4 and up
How: Registration required at the library or by phone (822-9102). Space is limited.
Cost: FREE
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Tuesday, February 21 - Teddybear Picnic

Miss Jaime is having a Teddybear Picnic. Bring your favorite stuffed friend to Storytime for sill bear tales, crafts and cookies.
Where: Barnes & Noble - Warwick Centre, 1350-B Bald Hill Rd, Warwick
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Everyone!
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
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Tuesday, February 21 - Storytime at Showcase Cinema de Lux

Patriot Place offers a FREE weekly event for kids and their parents. Kids Club Storytime is held every Tuesday at Showcase Cinema de Lux at 11:00am. After a story reading a special character makes a weekly appearance followed by a short movie. Don't miss the surprises and the fun at this FREE, weekly event. After storytime meet:  SpongeBob
Where: Patriot Place Storytime is at Showcase Cinema de Lux

2 Patriot Place, Foxborough MA
When: 11:00 AM
Who: Kids!
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: http://www.patriot-place.com/cinemadelux.aspx#events
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Tuesday, February 21 - Free Craft at Learn All About It

Stop by and choose a craft to make.
Where: Learn All About It 300 Quaker Lane, Warwick
When: 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Who: All Ages!
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: www.learnallaboutittoys.com or 401-921-5951
Add to My Macaroni

Tuesday, February 21 - Hot Chocolate Buffet! - CPL Auburn

Come in from the cold during February vacation and make some gourmet hot chocolate at the hot chocolate buffet! Add marshmallows, chocolate chips, sprinkles, whipped cream, flavoring and more! This program will now only be an afternoon session.   
Where: Cranston Public Library - Auburn Branch
When: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: All ages welcome!
How: Registration Required 781-6116
Cost: FREE
For more info: 781-6116
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Tuesday, February 21 - Wild Wolves Presentation - WWPL

Wild Wolves Presentation By Alyssa Grayson,  Wolf Watcher,  age 10 Learn about wolf tracks, behavior, touch their fur! (No live wolves will be in the library!)
Where: West Warwick Public Library
When: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Who: Grades  K- 4
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
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Tuesday, February 21 - Bedtime Stories - WPL

Come join us for stories, songs, crafts, movies and more. Parents and/or adults are welcome to come in for this storytime.
Where: Warwick Public Library - Children's Program Room
When: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: Children ages 3 - 8
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 739-5440 ext 4
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Wednesday, February 22 - Book Babies - CPL Central

A drop-in program for children from birth through 2 1/2 years old and their adult care-givers. Books, puzzles, musical instruments and toys are available for use with your child. Ten minutes of rhymes and a story at 11:00 am.
Where: Cranston Public Library - Central Branch
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Babies - 2 1/2 year olds and their caregivers
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 401-943-9080 x 5
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Wednesday, February 22 - Bingo for books! For grades K-3- CPL Auburn

Children are invited to drop by during the vacation week to play BINGO and win free books to keep! 
Where: Cranston Public Library - Auburn Branch
When: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Who: Children in Kindergarten to grade 3
How: Just stop by
Cost: FREE
For more info: 781-6116
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Wednesday, February 22 - Drop-In Craft: Make a Melting Snowman - CPL Knightsville

Drop in to make a melting snowman craft.
Where: Cranston Public Library - Knightsville Branch
When: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: All ages 
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 401-942-2504
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Wednesday, February 22 - Chocolate Fest - CPL Hall

Drop by the Art Cafe and make an art project. 
Where: Cranston Public Library - William Hall Branch
When: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Ages 6 +
How: Just drop in
Cost: FREE
For more info: Call Megan Weeden 781-2450
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Wednesday, February 22 - Bingo for books! For grades 4 and up - CPL Auburn

Children are invited to drop by during the vacation week to play BINGO and win free books to keep! 
Where: Cranston Public Library - Auburn Branch
When: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Children in grades 4 and up
How: Just stop by
Cost: FREE
For more info: 781-6116
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Wednesday, February 22 - Evening Storytimes - Coventry

Children are invited to evening story programs featuring stories, fingerplays, flannelboards, songs and crafts. Children are invited to wear their PJ's to this cozy storytime!    
Where: Coventry Public Library
When: 6:30 PM
Who: Children 3 - 8 years old
How: Just Show Up
Cost: FREE
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Teen Scene:

Tuesday, February 21 - Teen Movie Event: Juno

  When sixteen-year-old Juno MacGuff learns that she's pregnant,she decides to have the baby and place it for adoption. The next step is to find prospective parents for the yet unborn child. Rated PG-13  
Where: Warwick Public Library
When: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: Teens 
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 739-5440 wplteenspace@gmail.com
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Plan Ahead:

February 23rd through March 30th

Thursday, February 23 - MUSIC PERFORMANCE with JAMIE BARRETT

Jamie has appeared at Learn All About It a number of times and always puts on a great show.
Where: Learn All About It 300 Quaker Lane, Warwick
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Everyone
How: This is a free event but please call, email, or stop in to sign up!
Cost: FREE
For more info: www.learnallaboutittoys.com or 401-921-5951
Add to My Macaroni

Friday, February 24 - Musical Mardi Gras Celebration! - Kite Tails

Join us for a wonderful Musical Mardi Gras Celebration!  We'll decorate masks, make musical instruments to use in our parade, get our faces painted and enjoy some yummy snacks (including King Cake)! We'll even have a musician or two to help us keep the beat!  
Where: 6320 Post Road, North Kingstown
When: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Who: Everyone!
How: Please register on-line so we can have enough food for everyone!
Cost: $15/child, $25/2 children, $30/family max.
For more info: http://www.kitetailsplaycenter.com/
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Saturday, February 25 - Lowes Build & Grow

Come and build a Rumblin Race Car. *Projects may vary depending on availability
Where: All Lowe's Stores
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Recommended for Grades 1 - 5
How: Register online here
Cost: FREE
For more info: https://www.lowesbuildandgrow.com/Home.aspx or call your local Lowe's store
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Tuesday, February 28 - MOPS (Mother's Of Preschoolers)

Mothers Of Preschoolers is a free group that meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, it is open to any mother with newborn - kindergarten age kids.  They have discussions and do projects at the meetings.   Every week there is childcare provided at no cost or the children are welcome to stay in the same room if the parent is not comfortable with leaving their children. The kids can play separately in a school room with toys and activities, there are usually about 4 college age girls that babysit the children.
Where: Christian Hill Community Church - 56 Tiogue Ave, West Warwick
When: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Any mother with newborn - kindergarten age kid(s)
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE
For more info: If you have any questions, you can contact Jenna at volleyball1017@aol.com or 401-263-2031.
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Friday, March 30 - "TWO" High Energy Juggling

Chester Barrows School in Cranston is proud to announce that the hottest juggling act in the country is coming to Rhode Island.   Brothers Matthew and Jason Tardy of "TWO" will travel to Rhode Island to perform.  Their evening show will be appropriate for all ages and help support nearby Chester Barrows Elementary School. All are welcome at this community event, open to the public. TWO has performed at the White House three times and been featured on TV's' "Inside Edition" and "CBS Sunday Morning." They perform widely at celebrity private events. See this great act at www.twoshow.com.
Where: Park View Middle School (located near Roger Williams Park)
When: 7:00 PM
Who: Everyone!  This evening event at Park View will be open to the public.
How: Tickets will be sold at the door but are available ahead of time by contacting cbpto2010@gmail.com.
Cost: Admission $5.00 - ages 3 and under - free
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Kings Cake

Quick and Easy Recipe!

Brought to the Gulf states area by colonists from France and Spain, Kings Cake is associated with Carnival or Mardi Gras!
 
King cake parties in New Orleans are documented back to the eighteenth century and the cakes come in a number of styles.  The most simple is the recipe listed below. Cajun Kings Cakes are traditionally deep-fat-fried like a doughnut with filling! 
 
It is customary to bake a small trinket in the cake and cut it into 2 inch slices.  The person who receives the trinket receives various privileges!  
 
You ...

New Orleans Jambalaya

While this traditional New Orleans dish may be too spicy for younger kids, it is a favorite in our household.

New Orleans Jambalaya

  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 Tablespoons minced garlic
  • 12 ounces andouille chicken sausage, sliced (can substitute smoked turkey sausage)
  • 2 cups uncooked white rice
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 cans low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup water ...

Mardi Gras Masks

Made out of Duct Tape!

My daughter and I attended a festival quite a few months ago, where they were doing crafts with duct tape.  I, at the time, had never made anything with duct tape, so we nervously sat down and made a fabulous crown using only duct tape.

Ever since, I have found that you can make just about anything with duct tape.  Today, we are making Duct Tape Masks for Mardi Gras.

Material:

- Duct Tape (in different colors). We used purple and green, since Mardi Gras colors are purple, green, and gold ...

What is My Macaroni?

Learn how to create your own weekly activity calendar!

As a subscriber you have the ability to check off events that interest you by clicking on 'My Macaroni' under each event listing.  From there, you will be able to generate your own weekly calendar of events and activities.  You can either view the list on your screen or print it out as a PDF document to hang on your fridge or take along with you!


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