Stitched With Love...

Photo Credit to Moments to Memories

Mother of two, Mrs. Lauren Coffman of Livingston, TN has been crocheting on and off since high school, a hobby she picked up from her Aunt Teresa. These days Lauren has improved her crocheting skills to the level that people have started to take notice and talk about her adorable little projects, a long way away from the day when she could only stitch a straight line. Now Lauren has come to the point where she has discovered that she can learn almost any new stitch by using a good pattern. She has even began to develop her own techniques and skills of crocheting.
Lauren recalled the first thing she ever tried to make was a blanket for her then boyfriend, now husband. Lauren said, “it was hideous”. After that, she stuck with making cotton wash clothes for a time being. Still, she refused to give up her hobby and we are glad she didn’t, because those little winter beanie hats that everyone is noticing are just too cute. My personal favorite is the owl themed hat. Her hats take about 2-4 hours to make depending on their size and type.

I ask Lauren how in the world does she find the time to crochet with two small children and a full time job? Her response was that crocheting is used to help her unwind, her de-stresser. She even enlists the rest of her family to help her out from time to time. Her oldest daughter, Rylee, models the hats to make sure the size and fit is correct, while husband Josh cuts the strings needed to make the braided ears of the hats saving Lauren time for more crocheting. I am sure that baby Ryder will jump into the fun when the time comes, but for now, he is happy just to lay nearby and take it all in. Making this hobby of Lauren’s a Coffman family affair…

If you are interested in any of Lauren’s Crocheted hats just click HERE to get linked to her Facebook account. She will be happy to try, and meet any of your requests.


* This article also appears at Cookevilletimes.com

Globtrotting Teacher

Looking for a little extra adventure in your life? Wishing you where making a bigger difference in the world? That is exactly what 27 year old, Ms. Jessica Breeding wanted out of her life.

Ms. Breeding had become unsatisfied with her position as a teacher in Middle Tennessee and came to the conclusion to combine her love of traveling and her career path together. Breeding began to apply for teaching positions overseas. Getting a response from several countries, in the end, she chose Korea. Korea had the best benefit package of any of the positions she was offered and would allow her enough time to continue traveling.

Her decision to teach in Korea, while exciting, was still a little upsetting for her family and was exceptionally difficult on her Father. He began to protest many of the countries the seasoned traveler wanted to visit but ultimately was won over when he realized how happy traveling and teaching made his daughter. Eventually, all of her family and friends were on board with the new life style she had chosen for herself. She visits back to the states about every other year for Holidays and has weekly Skype conversations. Technology has made a big difference in commutation. It has also helped battle any feelings of being homesick, a feeling she has battled during her first year on her own in Korea.

Breeding is now in love with her position as an English teacher to Korean Kindergartners. She is happy the job provides her with enough funds and time to travel and study. She is now pursuing a Master’s Degree in International Business. After completing the degree, she hopes to become employed by a larger cooperation in Korea, Hong Kong, or Europe as a spokeswoman for the company.

Right now, Ms. Breeding has a sense of fulfillment with 29 countries visited and many more on the list to be visited. Jessica also feels her job as a Kindergarten English teacher is one of importance and her job is making a difference in the lives of a young Korean generation. The education system differs from that of the American system. For example, the children in Korea go to school for 12-15 hours a day. Parents in Korea pay for their children to attend extra schooling. That being said, the children of Korea are covering more curriculum in each grade level compared to the children in the United States, which has both positive and negative effects. In the classroom with children, Ms. Breeding is accompanied by a co-teacher to help maximize her teaching ability and overcome any language barriers that may be present. Teaching in Korea has given her a whole new outlook on education, child development, and the little things that are involved in childhood.

After three years away from American soil, Breeding feels that her traveling has contributed to the person she has become. She feels she has become much more open minded towards the cultures of other countries, taking into account how they view the American people, both good and bad. Becoming a traveler has taught Ms. Breeding a lot about who she is, who she wants to be, and feels like traveling the world has had a giant impact on her life as a whole. She continues to feed her adventurous nature. She is very happy with her decision to become a globetrotting teacher.

Top: Combodia, Scotland, Hong Kong, Bottom: Italy, Indonesia


Specail Note: this article also appears at Cookevilletimes.com

Photography, Paper, Picturesque

I just could not resist spotlighting the latest creative creation by Kelli Trontell{photography} and ButterflyspArks. These beautiful young entrepreneurs are creative geniuses on their own, but when you place these two girls together, magic happens. It’s incredible, fun, simple, beautiful…it’s art! Combine ButterflyspArks' extraordinary talent for creating visually stunning graphic design pieces and Kelli Trontell{photography} unique ability to capture precious details through her camera lens and just prepare yourself to be inspired. Distinctive characters from both the ladies' creative minds creates an entanglement perfect for developing personalized memories, better known as photographs. Their latest collaboration took place shortly before both of the ladies moved away from Nashville, TN and involved drawing inspiration from a couple key ingredients their love of children and their passion to create and inspire. These ladies dreamed up a photo shoot backdrop where kids can be kids. Their goal was to inspire mom’s who run out of creative ways to photograph their children. The girls came up with fun paper cutouts: paper cheeks, mustaches, music notes, and so much more, which transformed the simple but bold backdrops into a world of imagination and for the kiddos resulting in fun and cleverly designed photographs. Every photo is overflowing with adventure and giggling children! Kelli Trontell{photography} and ButterflyspArks“Playing with Paper” is simply a brilliant use of imagination developing a fun and easy way to photograph your favorite little ones. Hope you feel as inspired as I did!



Speical Note: this article also appear at Cookevilletimes.com

A Crafty Sisterhood

Rebekah and Deborah Robson are two small town girls, originally from Overton County, Tennessee who just happen to be sisters, who just happen to fall in love with and marry two brothers, who just happen to be stay at home mommies, who just happen to be two incredibly creative people.

Both of these young women are drawn to the crafting world. Rebekah has been painting, drawing, and sewing for years now, while kid sister Deborah is just getting her feet wet and exploring the crafty side of herself. After the discovery that both of them were interested in creating, the girls set out in search of an outlet for their creative energy. Thus, “20 Little Toes” was born, an Etsy shop devoted mostly to children’s projects.


“20 Little Toes” was originally created by sister Deborah and the name is a homage to her adorable twin boys. Soon after, sister Rebekah came on board as a mainstay contributor to the shop. The girls thought about changing the name, since Rebekah is also a mother to a sweet baby boy, but both decided “30 Little Toes” sounded a bit creepy, therefore deciding ultimately that “20 Little Toes” was around to stay.

The shop is dedicated to outfitting your children with both fun and practicality in mind. Both girls bring their own sense of style and ideas to the table. Rebekah's style is quirky, bright, with a twist of bohemian, while Deborah brings a more modern, streamlined, linear style with a dash of soft and feminine. The girls have found that in the crafting world their individual styles compliment each other very well. Their ability to work so well together is what makes the shop work and shows off a collective combination of their creative abilities and unique styles.


The shop has already made one appearance in the Etsy treasury section. The girls were thrilled that other crafters had connected with their work and chose their shop to be featured in such a select group.

These days the girls are busy preparing for the Holiday season. On average the girls spend 2-4 hours a day crafting and as far as plotting new ideas, the girls' brains are always in motion, daydreaming about new projects.

While Rebekah and Deborah love the crafting world, their main focus is their children. They are self described, part-time crafters and full time Mommies. While crafting is fun and challenging, their main priority is shaping the character of their sons. Crafting is something they do for themselves, something they enjoy, something that allows them to use a different part of their brains, and “20 Little Toes” is a lovely side effect of the crafting hobby of Deborah and Rebekah Robson.

To check out more of their products visit “20 Little Toes” on Etsy




Special Note: This article also appears in the Cookevilletimes.com

Perspective of A Student

Students, it’s pretty much your career from the time you start your first day of Kindergarten until at least your senior year of high school. Maybe even an extended career if you choose the path of higher education. In today’s final interview in the education series we are talking to tenth grader Ian Flowers. To stop and listen to the opinions of those actually taking part in the education system is an important way to improve the system and better meet the needs of individual students. After all, education does ultimately effect the lives and the futures of the worlds young people.

Interview With A Student

Question: What are your feelings about school in general (think about the whole process you have been through, not just your current grade)?
Answer: content/comfortable


Question: Do you think we are expecting too much out of the student body these days? In other words, are we forcing them to grow up too fast and robbing them of some of their childhood?
Answer: No


Question: Are you for or against School uniforms and Why?
Answer: against, limits individuality and most of them look stupid


Question: Should teachers be expected to have an identical dress code to the ones students are required to follow?
Answer: Yes


Question: How involved do you think parents should be in the educational process?
Answer: Little to none


Question: What matters most to you about your education?
Answer: Having the ability to go on to college, and getting a degree in your desired trait.


Question: Where do you think the most focus should be when it comes to spending funds for education?
Answer: helping in the development of children's education


Question: What are your thoughts on healthier school lunches?
Answer: sounds good to me.


Question: Do you participate in after school functions? If yes how important are they to you?
Answer: No


Question: Do you think youth have changed over the years? If yes for better or worse?
Answer: yes, but neither toward better, or worse, just, different.


Question: Do you think the bad economy has an effect on a child's learning abilities?
Answer: Yes


Question: What do you find most annoying about the education system?
Answer: having to wake up so early.



Question: How has technology changed your education?
Answer: It has made it to where you can learn about virtually anything all from one spot.


Question: What do you expect out yourself when it comes to your education?
Answer: making good grades and actually learning from what you're taught


Question: What are your favorite subjects in school?
Answer: math/science


Question: Do you think foreign language should be taught starting at a much younger age?
Answer: yes, because it makes it easier to learn if you're taught at a younger age


Question: Do you have a big agenda planned out for your future, and does it involve higher education?
Answer: yes, and yes.

Special Note: This article also appears in the Cookevilletimes.com

Education: A Parent's Perspective

Parenting is probably the most important job in the world. Bringing up the world’s future is no light matter. Children soak up much of who they will become from their guardians, therefore we should think deeply about what we are pouring into the lives of our future generations. Even when we think they are not listening, they most likely are, even when we thinking they aren’t paying any attention, they most likely are absorbing our behavior like little sponges. Children are usually always listening, and they are almost always paying great attention to our actions as adults, including how we treat one another. Like the old saying goes “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree”, and “children are a reflection of their parents”. It is very true that there will come a time when a child becomes an adult and must stand responsible for their own choices, good or bad, but shouldn't the world of parents be about pouring more generously into the lives of these future adults. One department that parents/guardians can pour more generously into is education. Parents should be involved and concerned with in every aspect of education from lessons they learn at home to the education they are receiving in the public education system. All the teaching should not be left up to the teachers in your child’s classroom. What you teach your child at home about manners, respect, self-esteem will ultimately affect your child’s performance during school hours. Understand and be encouraged as parents/guardians that you do make a difference and your voice does matter.

To go along with the education interview series I ask a Mother of two Mrs. Toni (Sells) Ferrell of Allons, TN to share her views on education, parenting, and how one directly relates to the other.



MOTHER OF TWO VOICES HER VIEWS ON EDUCATION

Question: What grades are your children in?
Answer: 2nd & 5th

Question: Do your kids seem to love/hate or have no feelings about school in general?
Answer: Both of my kids generally like school however my youngest is hardly as excited about school as my oldest.

Question: Do you think we are expecting too much out of our children these days? In other words, forcing them to grow up too fast and rob them of some of their childhood?
Answer: It does seem like children have more worries and responsibility than I remember having at their age. When I was 10 I don’t remember worrying about half of the things my 10 year old worries about. I think school was less stressful then.

Question: Are you for or against School uniforms and Why?
Answer: While I do think school uniforms keeps some kids from feeling like their clothing isn't as good as others and vice versa I also feel like it erases a child's personal style and comfort. My oldest son would be very unhappy if he had to wear a uniform everyday as he likes to wear t-shirt and athletic pants a/k/a the "comfortable stuff".

Question: Should teachers be expected to have an identical dress code to the ones students are required to follow?
Answer: Yes I think teachers should be expected to wear shorts/skirts that are at least knee length, clothing that does not have vulgar, racial, or derogatory remarks and be a general positive role model to the children even when it applies to clothing.

Question: How involved do you think parents should be in the educational process?
Answer: I think parents should be VERY involved in the education process. We are after all the parents of our children and we should be more concerned about our children's education as anyone. My children's education will never be as important to anyone as it is to me.

Question: Can a parent be too involved in classroom matters?
Answer: Yes I think parents can get too involved in classroom matters. There are times when a parent needs to let a teacher do their jobs and not be so involved. This definitely does not apply to all times as I think it is very rewarding for parents to help in the classroom.

Question: What is an afternoon of homework like for your children?
Answer: My children do their homework as soon as they come home from school. They may eat a snack but they are to immediately do their homework, before any tv or outdoor play.

Question: Where do you think the most focus should be when it comes to spending funds for education?
Answer: I think funds should be spend on making sure each and every child has the same opportunities in the classroom. It could also be extra help for the children who have a harder time and also providing more advanced work for the children who need it.

Question: What are your thoughts on healthier school lunches?
Answer: I think schools should provide healthier options for the children. My children's school is currently providing fruits and/or vegetables for snack every afternoon and my children love it.

Question: How important do you think music/arts in the school system are?
Answer: I think music/arts is very important. I feel they are a way for children to express themselves and also build positive self esteem.

Question: Do you attended all your child's school functions?
Answer: I am not able to attend all functions due to my work schedule however when I only worked part time I did. That is one thing I really miss.

Question: Do you think students have changed over the years? If yes for better or worse?
Answer: I do think students have changed. I have been a substitute teacher for many classes at different schools and I don't remember students acting like they do now.

Question: Do you think the bad economy has an effect on a child's learning abilities?
Answer: Yes. I think if a parent loses their job or a home situation changes it can be stressful on a child which could result in lower grades. I also think less governmental funds can cut programs that could otherwise be very beneficial to education

Question: What do you find most annoying about the education system?
Answer: I think the most annoying thing is when teachers, school staff, other students, etc. treat children differently because of who they are or are not. I can not say this has personally happened to me or my children but I have seen it happen.

Question: As a parent, what is the single most important thing you try to teach your children?
Answer: I try to teach my children to always be good to everyone and don't make fun of other people and to always try to be the best person they can be.

Question: How has technology changed teaching?
Answer: I think teachers have a lot more resources available now due to technology. There isn't anything you can't find on the Internet.

Question: What do you expected out of your children?
Answer: I expect my children to do their very best in school. My children make very good grades but if for some reason they were to make a lower grade I would not be upset if I honestly thought they had tried their very best and worked their hardest.

Question: What are your children's favorite subjects in school?
Answer: My oldest son's favorite subject is math and history. My youngest son's favorite subject is math and spelling.

Question: Do you think Pre-K is becoming a necessary part of the education system?
Answer: Yes. My youngest son went to Pre-K and it was a blessing. He was so prepared for kindergarten and not just with educational knowledge, but he did not have any separation issues or problems making friends and being around other children when he started kindergarten. I feel like it helped to ease him into the daily routine.

This article also appears in the Cookevilletimes.com

Education: A Teacher's Perspective

Education: The act or process of imparting or acquiring general knowledge, developing the powers of reasoning and judgment, and generally of preparing oneself or others intellectually for mature life.

Education is an important and necessary part of life. Education is a difficult process that is never completed no matter what age you live to become. In life, there will always be something new to learn. The world is always advancing and growing, so expanding your level of knowledge will always be a possibility. Education is also something that no one can take from you. It is also a choice we make within our own lives. We must all decide for ourselves how teachable we want to be. No one can force you to become educated.

Education is also a great debate in our country with our children rapidly falling behind children of other nations. The pressure keeps mounting for our children to advance their education at a more rapid pace in efforts to play catch up. I figured education is a subject we should all be talking about considering the education of our children will ultimately effect this country’s future.

To get the conversation rolling, I thought we would get personal and honest in a three part interview series on education. In this series I ask a teacher, parent, and student how they felt about what is presently going on within our schools by discussing everything from parent involvement to how the American public educational system spends money.

To kick off the series is today’s interview with an anonymous teacher who has devoted 15+ years teaching in the Upper Cumberland region of Tennessee. This teacher has taught high school age students of every grade level, all the while observing the changes that have taken place over the years in parents, technology, and the public education system. Here is what one veteran teacher, also the parent of a school age child, had to say when asked to get brutally honest about education.



Interview With A Teacher

Question: Are you for or against School uniforms and Why?
Answer: against - they really don't serve a purpose other than to keep students from expressing their own personalities. Also against school rules against allowing students to color their hair and have piercings. What's wrong with purple high lights or nose rings? As long as the important parts are adequately covered, I see no reason for strict dress codes or uniforms.

Question: Should teachers be expected to have an identical dress code to the ones students are required to follow?
Answer: teachers should dress professionally

Question: How involved do you want parents to be in the educational process?
Answer: involved, but not over involved. helicopter parents don't do anyone any good - students don't learn to do things on their own, and the teachers only get frustrated with the parents

Question: Can a parent be to helpful?
Answer: I wouldn't call it being "too helpful", I'd call it becoming a point of frustration for the teacher.

Question: What are some of the most helpful things parents can assist a teacher with?
Answer: not really an issue in high school

Question: Where do you think the most focus should be when it comes to spending funds for education?
Answer: give teachers the supplies they need to teach with, and the training they need

Question: What are your thoughts on healthier school lunches?
Answer: give students healthy choices and stop frying everything. if pizza and fries are not daily choices, students WILL try other things

Question: How important do you think music/arts in the school system are?
Answer: very, students need creative outlets

Question: What makes you feel the most appreciated as a teacher?
Answer: When my students come back and say thank you, I knew what was going on when I had this class in college because of what you taught me in high school

Question: Do you think students have changed over the years? If yes for better or worse?
Answer: Yes, definitely for worse. Students expect to work much less now than when I first started teaching. I can see a huge change over the last 10 years. I seem to have a larger percentage of students now who are lazier, work less, and really don't seem to care as much as the students I had 6-8-10 years ago. They seem to have a sense of entitlement - if I show up for class at least most days each week, you should pass me, even if I don't do the work. It seems to come from their parents.

Question: Do you think the bad economy has an effect on a students learning abilities?
Answer: I don't think the economy affects students learning abilities.

Question: If you had it to do all over would you become a teacher knowing everything you know now?
Answer: My college roommate begged me to go to pharmacy school with her. Sometimes when I am grading papers late at night or sitting in yet another meeting about test scores, I wonder if I made the right decision. Most days I like what I do, but there are those days....

Question: What is the single most important thing you try to teach your students?
Answer: Responsibility

Question: How has technology changed teaching?
Answer: It is easier to find examples of what I want to show them - pictures, video clips etc, than when I first started teaching - google, youtube, etc have changed all that.

Question: What do you expect out of your students?
Answer: I expect them to respect each other and me, pay attention in class, and do their work. But as the Rolling Stones say, you can't always get what you want. I guess I'm getting more cynical as I get older.


This article also appears in the Cookevilletimes.com

Seeing God in My Rearview Mirror(Guest Writer)

This is a story about how one couple's life was filled with hope and love through the process of adoption and the power of God's plan for their lives. I am so grateful to my guest writer Lisa Coil for sharing this beautiful, heartwarming story with my readers. Thank you Lisa =).


Seeing God in My Rearview Mirror
by: Lisa Coil
For anyone who has ever traveled the stretch of interstate known as I-40 West connecting Nashville to Memphis, Tennessee, one can truly understand just how long and boring those 200 miles can be. Perhaps it's because there is virtually nothing from Nashville to Jackson, few towns and fewer exits. It was July 2005 and my two children and I were traveling from our home just outside Memphis to visit my parents just east of Nashville for a little summer vacation. The weather was beautiful, the sky clear and sunny, so began our journey just as we had done many times before. However, on this particular trip, from the driver's seat of my Saturn Vue, I caught a glimpse of God in my rearview mirror that I had never seen before. Let me tell you what I saw.

This story really began in 1997 when my husband was preaching in a gospel meeting near Manchester, TN. He left our home in East Tennessee to go begin the meeting when near the Monteagle Mountain his car broke down. He was stranded. He finally got the car to a station only to find out that is would take a few days to repair it. He called one of the members of the church where he was scheduled to preach that next morning to come get him. When the elderly gentleman arrived (a longtime friend of ours) his daughter and new grandson, Will, were with him. Evidently, Will captured the attention of my husband in a most unusual way. When my husband called me later that night most of the conversation was about the young Russian boy, Will, which he had met earlier that day. My husband had excitement in his voice that I had never really heard before. As the week continued with gospel meeting, I continued to hear about Will almost every night. Will had been adopted from Russia a few months earlier, and he now had a wonderful Christian home.

At that time my husband and I had been married for about ten years. We had gone thru endless fertility treatments and drugs. We had exhausted every resource we could find to help us conceive a child. We knew God was in control of our lives, and we trusted in his promise and plan for us. (" And we know that all things work together for the good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28) I had longed for children it seemed my whole life. I had never really desired a sophisticated career or to be a professional. I had always wanted to be a wife and mother, nothing more. I had a "hole in my heart that nothing seemed to fill." My husband was very happy with our life, just the two of us, but he was keenly aware of my heartache. He tried everything to fill my void, but nothing worked. We had spoken about adoption, but until he met Will, we had never gotten beyond the words. We kept holding out hope that I would conceive. We continued to serve God in every way we could, always believing that He had a plan for us, and that someday He would "fill the hole in my heart."

After the gospel meeting ended my husband returned home, his meeting Will lead us to a decision that would change our lives forever. We contacted Will's parents and obtained as much information as we could about their adoption process. We had many conversations with them and made the decision that God was leading us in this direction. So, the exhausting, yet fulfilling adoption process for us began!

In mid-October 2000, on Friday evening, our adoption facilitator called us from her office in Murfreesboro, TN to see if we could meet her for dinner. She wanted to introduce us (via photographs and video) to our son. He was the most beautiful, black eyed, brown haired baby boy we had ever seen. He was about 7 months old and we could bring him home, hopefully, by the end of the year. The next morning, my husband and I went on our usual 3-mile walk, and I as skipping and leaping thru most of it! The "hole in my heart" was beginning to close! My husband couldn't stop smiling, showing off the pictures and video to anyone one and everyone he could. Through exasperating paperwork and red-tape, through long and extensive trips to Russia, through snow, ice, and 14 hour long train rides, and more experiences than I can recount, we arrived at Nashville International Airport on December 23, 2000, with the greatest Christmas gift that anyone could imagine. Our son had made it home! He was ours, he was safe, and loved beyond measure.

Ivan and Lisa=Love At First Sight

Homecoming



In 2003, our son welcomed a baby sister! We traveled again to the other side of the world, Siberia, to embrace the baby girl that God had entrusted to us. She was 5 months old, she was tiny, she was an angel.....she was perfect. She was blonde headed and blue eyed, and now "the hole in my heart was filled and began to overflow."

Ms. Emma Claire



So you ask. "What did you see in your rearview mirror on that long boring drive on a July day in 2005?" I saw two sleeping angels, nestled snug in their car sears, heads turned to either side, and I knew beyond any doubt that God is love (....God is love 1 John 4:8). I saw His love and goodness. I say He longs to satisfy the desires of His children. I saw how he hears and answers our prayers (...The effectual fervent prayer of righteous man availeth much James 5:16) I saw how He careth for us like no other, how He hurts when we hurt and rejoices when we rejoice. I saw how He has a plan for us in His time, and His way. I saw how He blesses us beyond what we can ever begin to comprehend or imagine. I saw His unspeakable gifts (Thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift 2 Corinthians 9:15). I had received two of them!

That drive for me isn't so long and boring anymore, I just take a few quick glances in my rearview mirror to remind me of all my Heavenly Father taught me that day. "Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be the glory in the Church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world with end. Amen" Ephesians 3:20

THE COIL FAMILY



Special Note: This story also appears in the Cookevilletimes.com

Autumn in Tennessee{fun Fall activities}

Autumn is upon us. Autumn is a time of harvest and gathering together with family and friends. I always think of this time of year as perfect marshmallow roasting weather. Autumn brings the loss of the bees, butterflies, and long summer days, but in return Autumn brings a kind of flower itself as it turns the leaves an array of reds, oranges, and yellows. Autumn also brings in the mellow breeze of a perfect day for family adventures and couples retreats. With this in mind, I thought I would compile a list of fun Fall activities in Tennessee. There is entertainment for all ages, groups and budgets scattered all over the beautiful state of Tennessee this Autumn.

Fall Events List by MysticIris on Polyvore.com

(1) Nestled away in the quiet, but bustling little town of Cookeville, TN is Hidden Hollow State Park. The park is located on Mt. Pleasent Rd and is considered a family friendly park in Middle Tennessee. This year the park will host Haunted Hollow, a kid friendly family fun zone with hayrides, haunted forest, carnival games, mazes, and maybe even some live music. The fun happens every weekend in October starting the weekend of October 8, 2010. $

(2) Looking for something a little more on the romantic side this fall and maybe even something indoors? You might be interested in "She Loves Me" a play by Joe Masteroft, Jerry Bock, and Sheldon Harnick showing at Cumberland County Playhouse in the adventure theater. "She Loves Me" has become two movies "The Little Shop Around the Corner" and "You've Got Mail". This big-hearted musical with a small, but talented cast runs November 18, 2010- December 18, 2010. $$$

(3) Honeysuckle Hill Farms in Springfield, TN is more than just a pumpkin patch. It's a whole discovery of family fun down on the farm. Honeysuckle Hills features a 6 acre corn maze, hillbilly pig races, pedal cars, steer roping, spider slide, petting farm, farmers market, The Kiddie 500 ( tricycle race), jumping pillow, and the new pumpkin train. Wittiness a family feud between the Hatfield's and the McCoys. Better take cover we hear those Hatfield's have a giant pumpkin cannon. Also, don't forget after all the fun you have to take home your very own pumpkin. You will find a super assortment in every color, shape, and size. $

(4) There's an absolute Spooktacular event coming to the Nashville Zoo. Ghouls at Grassmere, a family friendly Halloween event designed to appeal to families with children 12 years and younger. The event helps raise money for the upkeep of the zoo. This year there will be several new treats, along with all the old favorites including many treat stations, kid's costume Parade, gypsy maze, monster mash dance floor, scary-go-around, and so much more. The ghoulish fun begins the weekend of October 15-17 and continues the weekends of Oct 22-23, and Oct 28-30(not open Halloween night). The Nashville Zoo opens the gates at 5pm and closes them at 9pm. So put on your costumes and come out to the Nashville Zoo and join the fun! Hint...Hint, you can purchase tickets on-line in advance to avoid long lines and get a discount. This year is the first year that a Ghouls at Grassmere(GAG) total access pass will be offered. Don't miss out! $$

(5) Join in the Costume fun at one of Tennessee's most popular aquariums. The Fall 2010 Aqua-Scarium Halloween Party is October 29th beginning at 6:30pm and ending at 9:30pm hosted by the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga, TN. The event includes the ever popular costumed divers. You can also mingle with the lovable mascots donning their own Halloween costumes, dance the night away, and if you dare touch the unknown at animal encounters. Did I mention you can when prizes and gather lots of yummy treats.
Nonmembers $$$ (includes ticket to the aquarium) and Members $

(6) Dollywood's National Gospel & Harvest Celebration located in Pigeon Forge, TN. Four weeks of Gospel music beginning October 1, 2010. Your not going to want to miss Dollywood's fall celebration with music, crafts, and food located in the breathtaking smokies, nor are you going to want to miss Dollywood's signature fried green tomato's. $$$$

(7) Chester County BBQ Festival, Henderson TN September 30th- October 2nd 2010. The festival will feature arts, crafts, children's area, and the main attraction, BBQ. Enjoy Barbecue cooked with patience, skill, and experience in an open-pit barbecue producing "real barbecue" for all to enjoy. The first barbecue will go on sale by 10 am, September 30th. Admission to the event is free, but some cost will be required to fully enjoy the family friendly festival. You can contact the Chester County Chamber of Commerce for more information. $$

(8) Looking for personal treasures? Now is your chance to find them. September 30 - October 2, 2010 is the 25th annual Roller Coaster Yard Sale with stops at Glasgow KY, Tompkinsville KY, Albany KY, Celina TN, Livingston TN, Byrdstown, TN and many more stops along the way. A three day, 150 mile stretch of crafts, quilts, southern style foods, antiques and second hand treasures of all kinds. Detailed driving directions available on-line click HERE. FREE

(9) The Blue Man Group is coming to Tennessee's Andrew Jackson Hall in Nashville, November 16-21, 2010. The Blue Man Group theatrical show combining music, technology, comedy, and a touch of mystery to each show. Since there is no spoken word during the performances, The Blue Man group crosses over boundaries of all kinds, including age, cultures and language barriers. You are guaranteed to be left wildly entertained by this unique and visually stunning performance. Special note if you sit close to the front you may not want to wear clothing you value. Casual attire is welcome and encouraged for this show. $$$$

(10) Maybe you are looking for some adventure this Fall season. Well, your sure to find it at Fall Creek Falls State Park. For starters they are offering rock climbing workshops November 5-7, 2010, among many other events this fall. Enjoy any of these events while taking in the beauty and wonder of the Fall foliage and atmosphere. Fall Creek Falls is situated on the Western edge of the Cumberland Plateau in Pikeville, TN. The Park is Tennessee's largest state park with much to offer it's visitors from camping, hiking, fishing, bird watching, and lets not forget the beautiful waterfalls. This state park even offers top rate lodging for those who like indoor private plumbing areas. Cost of this adventure will vary depending on your agenda. $-$$$$

Cost Key
$$$$ Above $30 Each
$$$ Above $20 Each
$$ Under $20 Each
$ Under $10 Each
FREE

Special Note this article also appears at Cookevilletimes.com

Hayes Foundation{Shining A Light On SIDS}

Sometimes we come across stories in life that are both heartbreaking and inspirational. This particular story is just that, a story of sadness turned into something very beautiful by the courage of one mother.

This story starts with the tragic loss of a very precious 4 1/2 month old Oliver "Hayes" Hitzeman. Hayes, a very healthy little boy, was lost to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) in June of 2002. His family was just getting to know him, figuring out what his cries meant, loving his laugh. He filled their lives with a happiness and light that has now gone dim due to his loss.

While this story is truly one that pulls heartstrings until they break, it also does not end with a life that was indeed cut too short. Though his family will never regain the presence of their precious little son, they are now on a mission. Hayes now shines a whole new light on the very real subject of SIDS all around the country, a pretty big legacy for a tiny baby boy to have left behind. His family is helping carry on that legacy.

They continue the mission to educate the public and aid in the research to better understand this terrifying silent killer. While most parents and caretakers have heard of SIDS or maybe even been handed some basic reading material on the issue, it still remains a subject at which we all shutter and little to no discussion about SIDS is taking place.

That is where The Hayes Foundation comes into play. The Hayes Foundation was created in loving memory of sweet baby Hayes by his Mother Kyra, family, and many loving friends. The purpose of the foundation is to create programs, support services, public awareness, and award grants for further SIDS research. One such campaign is "This Side Up" started in 2006.

The goal of this campaign is to educate parents and caregivers by distributing friendly T-shirts/Onesies that remind them to put babies to sleep on their backs. Studies have shown that placing babies on their backs lower their risk of becoming a victim of SIDS. "This Side Up" campaign has reached California, Tennessee, Virginia, Texas, Alaska, and Florida.

The Hayes Foundation, with campaigns such as "This Side Up", are doing an astounding job to raise awareness and get America talking about this very real danger of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Be apart of the campaign and let's reach the Hayes Foundation's goal of a future where no one experiences the loss of a child to SIDS!!!



Find out more about SIDS at by clicking HERE and how you can help by volunteering, donating, or even just educating yourself on the guidelines to reduce the risk of SIDS


Special Note: This Story also appears in the Cookevilletimes.com

The Road to Making a Difference

Biking Family Evan,April,and Owen

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society 2010 "Jack and Back" annual bike ride presented by Jack Daniels is being held October 2nd and 3rd this year. The starting line will formed at Paige High school in Franklin TN. The ride is a 150 mile, two day bike ride. Riders will be allowed to camp-out overnight at Motlow College in Lynchburg, TN before making the journey back to Paige High school on October 3rd.

This year, veteran rider to this event, Evan Baird and his newcomer wife, April Baird, are up for the " Bike to Jack and Back" challenge. Evan has been making this run for the past six years now. April decided to join her husband on the actual bike ride this year. She has been doing volunteer work along the bike route for many years now. She has enjoyed mingling with other volunteer's and riders that stopped at her refreshing stations. Many of the volunteers themselves are in various stages of battling MS and many of the riders ride in honor of someone they love. April has enjoyed her work as a volunteer and listening to stories about how people deal with this terrible disease is inspirational and unforgettable. One particular story about a rider she met along the way pulls at her heartstrings every time she thinks about his story. Two years ago, when April volunteered, there was this rider and he was the VERY last rider. She was working the 2nd to last rest stop and it was super hot that October. They got word he was about to be at their stop and they got water and snacks ready for him. He looked rough. His bike was old, he didn't have a jersey (just a cotton shirt with the sleeves cut off), and didn't even have cycling shoes. She asked him why he just didn't take the SAG (support and gear) wagon in...it wasn't a big deal. He told her that his wife has MS and he was riding for her. He would see how rigid her walking had gotten, how her hearing varied at times, how her speech had gotten worse and she couldn't drive anymore. He called her at every rest stop. He called her while April was standing there and she about lost it. He told his wife he was almost there. He hoped she was feeling okay, that he loved her, and would see her at the finish line. Such a moving story about the love this rider had for his wife and he wasn't about to give up on doing this for her.

Along with the beautiful and amazing people April and Evan meet doing this very touching event, they also ride this race to make a difference. They have a passion to help the cause this bike ride supports. MS or Multiple Sclerosis is an inflammatory disease that effects the ability of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord to communicate with each other. At this point, there is no cure for this crippling disease. While MS is such a terrible disease, there is little public promotion to help raise awareness. There are socks, pens. shirts, notepads for many other terrible diseases, but MS, for the most part, just gets left off the list. This bike ride is an important way to raise awareness and funds for a disease that affects so many lives. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society not only raises money to fund future research in search of cures, but a percentage of the funds raised actually go to patients and families suffering from MS.

The combination of the challenge of the ride, the love of the people and the importance of raising awareness and funds for MS make this 150 mile, two day "Bike to Jack and Back" a 'can't miss' event for Evan and April Baird. This year the couple hope to complete each days ride in 5 hours. They also hope to raise their share of funds to donate to such a special cause. This charity bike ride raises an enormous amount of funds for MS and people come from all over the country to participate. Last year there were over 800 riders and each year that number increases. Find out how you can be part of the battle against MS and support the patients and families that have fallen victim to this disease. There are so many ways to help volunteer, sponsor a rider, and if your an adventurous biker, sign up to participate in the ride. No matter how you choose to help, be confident that you are making a difference.

Special note if you would like to sponsor Evan or April Baird click on their names anywhere in this article for a direct link on how you can become a sponsor and help make a difference. If you would like to volunteer or join the bike ride(must be 18 years of age to register) click HERE!


Special Note: This story also appears at Cookevilletimes.com

More Than A Matter of Style

About 20% of public schools have made the jump to some sort of school uniform, standardized attire or strict dress code. The debate has been somewhat of a hot subject for several years now. The debate on whether the uniform system has a direct impact on improving student behavior, or whether it actually does create a better environment for students and teachers is still on going. Both sides of this debate have some valid points.

Starting with the pros of the uniform system. Some parents simply enjoy the guess work being removed from the pre-school shopping and even the their morning routines. A percentage of parents just agree that is makes their household run smoother in the morning rush. This seems to be particularly true in households with older children. The experts for the Pro side of the debate believe that uniforms within the school system help children to focus more on learning and less on who is wearing what. School standardized attire may also relieve the pressure students feel trying to fit in. Thus improving the social environment in the school atmosphere. School officials also say that uniform systems improve safety. For example students all dressed in similar clothing helps school officials and teachers recognize if someone comes on campus who doesn't belong. Experts also believe mandatory use of such a dress code reduces violence/bullying with the school.

Now lets move over to the other side of the debate, the cons. One of the largest arguments on the con side is self expression and individuality. Since self expression is an important part of a child's developmental process, some experts believe that forcing uniforms is detrimental to a child's development. The results of this system are often forcing students to find other, often less appropriate ways to express themselves. Experts also conclude the stripping children of individuality with the use of uniforms is another way to force all students into one mold, when they should be celebrating and embracing individuality. They believe that school uniforms does not truly prepare children for the real world in which they will continue to be judged by their appearances and the choices they make within their own lives.

Experts on the Con side also argue over the fact that they believe that the Pros are not really Pros. Advocates of school uniforms say that freeing a student of fashion pressures will allow them to focus on school studies, but there is little conclusive evidence to back up this argument. The experts on the con side of the debate argue that there are more influential factors than what a student wears like study habits, parental support, classroom material, and instructional quality. Cost of school uniform systems is actually argued on both sides. Pro side saying it saves families money since the school attire is sold at discounted prices and is much cheaper than fashionable name brand clothing. While the Con side says it cost families more because most families will buy two sets of clothing for their children one being the school attire and the other a more fashionable set of clothing that suit their children's personalities for nonschool hours.


It is true that both sides of this debate have great valid points with expert opinions. To which side of the school uniform debate do you and your family tend to lean?



Special note: This article was also published in the Cookevilletimes.com