There’s so many exciting events happening this Huntsville Weekend. From pumpkin patches opening to hikes and movies in the park, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. If you don’t find something below, you can always check out our full Event Calendar for even more cool stuff.

2021 Fall Activity Guide

Your ultimate guide to the best Fall ever is here! Pumpkin patches, Fall festivals, concerts and more – all gathered in one place for you! Check out the 2021 Fall Activity Guide to start planning a magical season the entire family will enjoy. We’re also starting to gather events for our Halloween Fun list – be sure we include yours by emailing us!

Huntsville Weekend Fun For Families

Click here to see the weather this weekend

Every week we curate what we think are your best bets for finding a little family fun (and joy) this Huntsville weekend below, but be sure to check out our full calendar if you don’t see anything you like here.

Free & Cheap Activities

• FREE – Shop Fall fashion for less at Little Lambs Consignment Sale. Details
• FREE – Join the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra for Music Explorer’s Club. Details
• FREE – Jam to Bit Brigade at Lowe Mill’s Fall Concerts on the Dock. Details
• FREE – Watch Monsters Inc. during Fall Fridays Movies in the Park. Details
• FREE – Enjoy a free concert by Calypso Vision at County Line Concert Series. Details
• FREE – Take a 2 mile hike with naturalist Tim Gels for #HugaTreeLT Tree ID Hike. Details
• FREE – Lend a hand for National Public Lands Day and help out at the Flint River Clean Up. Details
• FREE – Grab something yummy from a farmer at the Madison City Farmers Market. Details
• Jump on bouncy houses, shop local vendors and more at the Pioneer Family Fun Day. Details
• Enjoy a Family Game Night with Turnip & Joletta at Shenanigans. Details
• FREE – Relax by the Flint during Operation Green Team’s Yoga by the River. Details
• FREE – Shop without breaking the bank at Athens Kids Mart Consignment Sale. Details
• FREE – Enjoy live entertainment, food, & fun at the 325 Block Party. Details
• FREE – Head downtown for the Big Spring Park Scavenger Hunt for kids! Details
• FREE – Join Greater Huntsville Humane Society for Downtown Dog Day. Details
• FREE – Enjoy an out-of-this-world hunt for Huntsville’s Space Murals. Details
• FREE – Enjoy a parade, arts & craft show, and more at Eva Frontier Days. Details
• FREE – Support local bereaved families at the TEARS Foundation Rock & Walk. Details

Worth the Money this Huntsville Weekend

• Last chance to see Huntsville Botanical Garden’s Night Blooms before it’s gone! Details
• Get ready for spooky season and go on a Huntsville Ghost Walk. Details
• Visit Lyon Family Farms for opening weekend and their Fall Festival. Details
• Ride the kiddie coaster at 4D Farms before picking your pumpkin. Details
• Show your true colors at Hidden River’s Inaugural Color Spray Fest. Details
• Explore Alligator Awesomeness during Cook Museum’s Science on the Spot. Details
• Have a Huntsville staycation for less with the new Rocket City Kids Pass. Details
• Cosplay, interact with special guests, and more at the Lowe Mill Comic Con. Details
• Stroll through the Scarecrow Trail at HBG’s Festifall Celebration. Details
• Explore nature through STEM activities at the Huntsville Botanical Garden’s Seeds to Sprouts. Details
• Explore Alabama’s awesome ecosystems during Cook Museum’s Science on the Spot. Details
• Journey through Cosmic Distances at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center’s INTUITIVE Planetarium. Details

So that’s what we know about. Did we miss something cool happening in the Huntsville area? Leave in the comments or send us a note at info@rocketcitymom.com. If you have a free/cheap family-friendly event you want added to our calendar feel free to submit anytime but keep in mind we have other jobs too so give us a few days heads up

ICYMI…

• 10 Magical Reasons to Visit the Garden this Fall
• Pick the Perfect Bouquet at Moonflower Farms
• Hidden Rivers Returns with New Attractions

DISCLAIMER: We do our best at Rocket City Mom to provide accurate, useful information about events and activities. This information (such as times and locations) is gathered from user submissions, press releases, local newspapers, signs around town and word of mouth. While we always try to confirm details before they are posted in the Huntsville Weekend Roundup, sometimes details change or we are given inaccurate information. Whenever possible we link our write-ups to the source in which our information came from and strongly urge you to confirm details before you go, especially when it comes to outdoor events and weather.

The post Huntsville Weekend Roundup September 24 – 26 appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

From devastating loss and the darkest point of their lives, the Schoff family formed Ryker’s Rainbow to bring light to families walking through similar situations. At the heart of what they do, Ryker’s Rainbow wants other bereaved families to know that they are not alone and that their child matters.

The Schoff Family Story

Ryker’s Rainbow of course begins with Ryker. After having their daughter, Ellis, in 2018 Hans and Lacey Schoff decided to grow their family of three to a family of four. Despite being difficult in terms of sickness, Lacey’s pregnancy with Ryker was a healthy one without major complications.

“It was a difficult pregnancy in general, but a healthy one. There were never any issues or never any reasons for concern, or to be alerted for anything, it was never a high risk pregnancy,” Lacey said.

At 37 weeks, Lacey went in for a routine appointment and scan. She said she can vividly remember leaving work and telling a coworker that she’d be back soon with pictures.

“The ultrasound tech asked me if I had any concerns and I said I have not been feeling him as much the past few days, because he is normally pretty active. I had expressed that concern to my husband and he had put his hand on my stomach and we convinced ourselves that we were feeling him. Even with Ellis, towards the end we weren’t feeling her as much, so we were comparing it to that. So during the ultrasound the ultrasound tech left the room, and that’s when I knew something was going on,” Lacey said.

The tech came back with the midwife since Lacey’s OB was currently out of town. Because it was in the height of COVID-19, Hans had not been able to come to the appointment, and the midwife asked Lacey to call him in. Knowing something was wrong, Lacey asked to go ahead and hear the news and was told that they could not detect a heartbeat for their baby boy.

“Ryker had passed and it was just hard to believe it. So I kind of asked what they could do, not fully understanding the situation. I called Hans and he hurried over there. I had to tell him on the phone just straight up. I had to say it a number of times, because he just couldn’t understand it. In fact, he was on some heavy machinery when he finally grasped it and he ran through our fence on accident. He hopped off and came there to the clinic and we had to decide at that time if we wanted to go deliver that day or if we wanted to wait,” Lacey said.

Lacey and her doctor shared a special connection throughout her pregnancy with Ryker, and because of that and wanting more time with their son, the Schoffs decided to be scheduled to be induced later in the week.

“We decided to wait because I wanted more time with him. I read to him every night and I prayed with him and I sang to him. So I wanted to do all these things a couple more times. Also my OB was out of town and she is amazing. She is just an incredible doctor and we just had a special connection, and I just wanted her to be the one to deliver Ryker. I knew I was going to be in a tizzy and she was the only one that could calm me. I didn’t want someone I didn’t know delivering him. It became very sacred to me and to him and to Hans,” Lacey said.

Lacey’s doctor booked an emergency flight home in the middle of the global pandemic, getting stuck at the Atlanta airport and having her husband drive to come get her in the middle of the night when no rental cars were available.

“She was just incredible, committed to me and Hans and Ryker. So when I woke up the next morning, she was the one to wake me up, and I knew it was time,” Lacey said.

Upon delivery, it was determined that Ryker had passed due to a blood clot in the umbilical cord. In the days following Ryker’s birth, Lacey said the family received countless support as they prepared to say goodbye, and that their faith was their cornerstone.

“Hans and I are both Christians, and we just had a tons of support from our friends, family, and even strangers. Even in the ultimate times of darkness and the hardest times of our lives, we felt incredibly blessed by others and what people were doing for us,” Lacey said.

Ryker’s Rainbow is Created

When Lacey and Hans left the hospital they were given a box. But, unlike the box that families typically receive when discharging from the hospital, it contained a large book on grief.

“I left the hospital and I was given a box, and I knew what was supposed to be in that box, because I had had Ellis, a healthy baby. My heart was broken because it was a reminder that that’s what was left. Inside was this nice book, but it was a large chapter book on grief. I remember getting really upset and telling my mom does anyone really think I am going to be able to read this?” Lacey said.

Later Lacey’s mom gave her a more manageable book titled Mommy Please Don’t Cry: There are No Tears in Heaven, a short, faith-based book. Although Lacey and Hans had not planned Ryker’s Rainbow yet, the book would prove to be an instrumental part in its formation.

“It took me several days to even read that one, but once I finished it I looked at Hans and said ‘we have to get this to the hospital. We need other moms and dads and families who have experienced loss like ours to have this book.’ So I called the hospital,” Lacey said.

After a quick conversation about how many books the hospital would need and the logistics of getting them there, Lacey and Hans still didn’t have concrete plans for Ryker’s Rainbow until her birthday rolled around and she received a reminder from Facebook to create a birthday fundraiser.

The Schoffs had originally planned to not share photos of Ryker, but when Lacey was playing around with creating a fundraiser for the books she accidentally posted it with a photo of her son’s feet. After a quick discussion they decided to see what would happen.

“Within minutes the donations started rolling in and I was so humbled, I still am. We got $13,000 in donations on Facebook and $1,000 just from people mailing us donations. We prayed over that and thought about that. Obviously that’s a lot of money for books. Hans was like I know where this is going, but I was more resistant, thinking I cant do this, I am not strong enough. We decided we wanted a partnership with the hospital, so we created Ryker’s Rainbow Memorial Fund. The plan was just to do books, but the books have turned into memory plates and now we do gift boxes,” Lacey said.

“A lot of people ask me why we named it Ryker’s Rainbow. Obviously Ryker from his name and then rainbow we wanted it to be something light. Talking about the death of a baby or child is a heavy subject. It is the darkest times of a families life and so we wanted something to be indicative of hope and light and rainbows are that. Rainbows are signs of God’s eternal promise to us. Our mission is simply be the light and we want to give hope and light to families.”

In addition to helping countless families in their time of need, Ryker’s Rainbow has also helped the Schoffs in their own grief.

It has been an interesting way for Hans and I to navigate through grief as well. When you lose a child that you have never got to spend time on this earth with, it’s hard. You naturally try to imagine what they would be like and what they would be doing now. It has given us a lot of opportunities to be proud of him, just to see the way that he has been able to impact others. We have got to see so much goodness and love through all of this. It’s been neat to see it all come together and how people come together and just the community of it,” Lacey said.

Get Involved with Ryker’s Rainbow

Volunteer

Lacey said that Ryker’s Rainbow is always in need of volunteers to help assemble bereavement boxes. Around the holidays, they will also need help with their Tinsel Trail tree and as the pandemic eases, they have plans for additional events that will need volunteers. The Ryker’s Rainbow Facebook page is the best place to stay updated on volunteer opportunities.

Donations

Donations help fund the bereavement boxes that Ryker’s Rainbow provides to local hospitals and to families in need outside the hospitals. You can donate here.

Contact

Phone – 256-269-2880

Email – rykers.rainbow@gmail.com

Website | Facebook | Instagram

“I know its Ryker’s work and I know it’s God’s work. It’s truly an honor to serve other families in their darkest times. This is a sacred time, and to be a tiny part of their story is an honor.” – Lacey Schoff

You Might Also Like…

• Supporting Bereaved Parents Through TEARS
• Lighthouse Photography is a Beacon to Grieving Parents

The post Sharing Light in the Darkness: Ryker’s Rainbow Supports Bereaved Families appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

Taking a Ghost Walk is one of our favorite things to do on a crisp, clear autumn night in North Alabama. It’s a great way to learn more about Huntsville’s haunted history, especially when local historians are leading the guided tours. Below you’ll find several ghostly options to explore with your family!

• Looking for Halloween Parties & Spooky Events? Click Here.
• Looking for Trunk-or-Treat events? Click here.
• Looking for Fall pumpkin patches? Click here.

Local Ghost Walks & Paranormal Tours

Huntsville Ghost Walk

Tours begin in front of historic Harrison Brothers Hardware store which is also where you purchase your tickets. There are walking tours, and while no one jumps out at you, it is after all a ghost walk – so be mindful of how easily your little ones might be scared! You choose one of three guided tours through the Twickenham District, the Old Town District, or the Downtown District.

Date/Time: Friday and Saturday nights in Sept. & Oct. | 6PM (plus an addition Saturday walk at 8:30PM)
Cost: Walking $10 adults/$5 children
Location: Harrison Brothers Hardware (map)
More Info: Website | Facebook

Athens Haunt Walks

The Athens Haunt Walk is hosted annually by the Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association and features the haunted history of Athens by guided tour as darkness falls.  The 1.5-2.0 hour walking tour, winds through the historic districts of Athens – Beaty, Downtown, Houston and Athens College – lead by volunteer guides recounting the tales of woe and phantom featured in the book “The Spirits of Athens”. Tickets for this event are available through pre-sale only – no tickets will be available at the door and are limited to 30 attendees per tour group. Social distancing encouraged.

Date/Time: Tuesdays and Thursdays in October | 6:30PM and 7:00PM
Cost: $10 per person ages 13+; Ages 12 and under are $5
Location: Athens-Limestone Visitors Center (map)
More Info: Website

Ghost Hunting 101 with Touronimo

If you enjoy a spooky Halloween Haunted House or have participated in a local Ghost Walk but are ready for something a little more in-depth, this is experience for you! Paranormal investigator Joe Copp, a seasoned ghost hunter with decades of experience, will take you on an adventure into the profound realm of ghost hunting. Guests attending this private experience will participate in a training course followed by the real paranormal investigation of a historic building located on the courthouse square in Athens, Al

Date/Time: Friday, October 15 at 6:00 PM
Cost: $50, ages 16+
Location: Athens State University (map)
More Info: Website

Southern Ghost Girls Ghost Walks and Paranormal Investigations

Perfect for the Halloween season, Southern Ghost Girls Tours will lead several fun Ghost Walks and Investigations at locations including The Historic Lowry House, downtown Hartselle, the Old State Bank in Decatur, and more. You will get to use all the Paranormal Investigation Equipment just like you see on the Popular Paranormal TV shows! While this is family friendly event and children are welcome, we encourage parents to use discretion when bringing small children and ask that you sign a liability waiver before the tour begins.

Date/Time: Various evenings in October | Most events begin at 6PM or 7PM
Cost: Starts at $45
Location: Downtown Hartselle (map)
More Info: Facebook Events List

2021 Maple Hill Cemetery Stroll – CANCELED

The Maple Hill Cemetery Stroll is one of the largest living history strolls in the nation, with over 75 costumed characters, traditional music, special exhibits, an expanded antique auto display, and student scavenger hunts. Not all are buried in Maple Hill, but they are essential in accurately reflecting the history of Huntsville. Some of the music will accompany character portrayals. Sponsored by the Huntsville Pilgrimage Association, this event is free; donations received are designated for repair and preservation of the walls and tombstones of this historic municipal cemetery.

Date/Time: October 17 | 1:30 – 4:30 PM; as of 9/15 this event has been canceled due to Covid.
Cost: FREE, donations accepted
Location: Maple Hill Cemetery (map)
Website: Website | Facebook

Maple Hill Park

Tucked away behind the historic Maple Hill Cemetery, you’ll find a depression in a natural alcove. Nestled at the bottom of the rocky hillside, is a playground. It’s not an overly impressive park, but it is pretty in the daylight and surrounded by shady beech trees. There are swings and toddler-sized play equipment, and a covered pavilion with picnic benches. Not to mention lots of kids climb some of the rock outcrops and enjoy an elevated view from the top. But at night, it is still… until the rusty squeak of the swing chains start up and you realize there’s no one else there. Read the full story. 

Date/Time: Open year-round from sunrise to sunset
Cost: FREE
Location: Maple Hill Cemetery (map)

You Might Also Like…

• Which Haunted Huntsville Ghost Are You? Take the Quiz
• The Ultimate Huntsville Fall Activity Guide
• Our Favorite Fall Soups & Stews Kids Love

The post Huntsville Ghost Walks & Haunted Spots in North Alabama appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

One early morning in September I woke up sobbing, realizing my pillow was wet with my tears. It had been a dream – one of those dreams that makes you stop and take notice. A dream from the Divine?

The dream had gone like this: I was back in college, having a rough time and begging my mom to spend some time with me. I didn’t need anything, I just wanted her to be there for me. But my mom wasn’t available and time after time she told me all of the things that she needed to do: My dad needed her to go out-of-town with him on a business trip; she had to run some college kids to Walmart; etc. This went on for quite a few days. Finally, in my dream, I yelled, “STOP! LOVE ME!” But when I turned to look at her, it wasn’t she that was standing there. It was my young son. Confused, I looked again, and instead of my son, my husband was there. Even more confused, I looked again, and instead of my mother, or my son, or my husband, I was looking back at myself.

That’s when I broke into tears and woke up.

You see, I spent most of the past two years rushing around trying to do a lot of good things for other people. Like my director and the Vice President at work, the students at the University, my colleagues, everyone that is in the outer rings of my Concentric Circle of Responsibility.

Never heard of the Concentric Circle of Responsibility? My counselor introduced it to me. At the center of this circle is my Person – my physical, mental, and spiritual health included. The next ring is my Partner – my husband and our needs as a couple. Next is my role as Parent – the needs of my son and our relationship. Everyone else is supposed to fall into the expanding outer rings but I had it mixed up. My Concentric Circle was everyone else in the center ring with my son being next. Then my Partner and my Person fought over the other rings. It was really really sad but something moms do all of the time.

At that moment in that dream, that scream of “STOP! LOVE ME! was my cry for help. It was me begging myself to pay attention to myself, to be kind to myself. In turn, I would have the strength, the energy, and the sanity to handle everything else. It was quite literally a wake-up call.

A More Focused Concentric Circle of Responsibility

My parenting goal is to fix my Concentric Circle of Responsibility: Person, Partner, Parent, and then everyone and everything else.

The Plan

Fixing the Circle involves listening and paying attention – to me and what I need, and to my family and what they need. These things will seem little but I know they will add up in the long run.

For example, drinking water when I am thirsty. It’s insane that I don’t do that. In fact, I am thirsty now as I am writing this. Let me get up and drink a glass of water…

Listening and paying attention also means that I stop eating food or don’t even start eating when I’m not hungry. My son is teaching me this one. If he’s not hungry; he doesn’t eat. Period. It could be his favorite thing in the world; if he is not hungry, he is finished. He’s very lean. I am not.

I am not going to set a bunch of goals or New Year’s Resolutions this year. For me, resolutions are very restrictive, inflexible, and unkind. Plus, most New Year’s Resolutions sputter and die by the end of January anyway. These intentions are kinder, gentler, and more loving:

• Drink water when I am thirsty.
• Don’t eat when I am not hungry.
• Prep more healthy and nutritious meals at home for my Hubby and son. (Sorry Viet Cuisine! They are amazing, by the way! Check out the RCM Review)
• Take a bubble bath and finish it off with an in-home mani/pedi
• Continue reading when my son asks for more

How I’m Going to Follow Through

Now, this is the tricky part – seeing these goals through. I wouldn’t be the book reviewer and host of the RCM bookclub if I didn’t recommend at least one book in this post. And today, you get two: Better Than Before and The Four Tendencies, both by Gretchen Rubin. In them, she discusses habit formation and why some people do better keeping commitments than others. I recommend you read the books for more details and tricks to help you follow-thru on your intentions. You can take this short quiz to get started.

According to Rubin, I am an Obliger: I don’t have any problem keeping external commitments (to my directors and co-workers) but I struggle to keep internal commitments to myself (and those that are very close to me. Gretchen recommends that I trick myself and make my internal commitments external commitments.

That’s what I am doing here. I am telling you what I am going to do and I’d like to update you on my progress here and on my personal blog. Knowing that you guys are expecting me to do what I said I was going to do, looking to see how well I do it, and maybe wanting to see if you can do it too, will help me follow-thru on my intention.

“After a lifetime of believing that the voices that mattered were Out There, approving or disapproving of me, I’m learning [to listen] to trust the voice within, the voice of God’s Spirit, the whisper of my own soul.”
– Shauna Niequist, Present Over Perfect

This year is about listening and loving my community (you guys!), my friends, my family, and ultimately, myself. And then following up on what I hear with appropriate action. Want to join me? Tell me about your Concentric Circle of Responsibility in the comments.

This post was originally published January 2018 and has been updated. 

You Might Also Like…

• RCM Virtual Bookclub Wants YOU!
• 3 Fun Activities to Do With Your Family at Rocket City RC Club
• Potty Training Discoveries That Have Led Me to Despair

The post Overhauling My Concentric Circle of Responsibility appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

We’re another week closer to the official start of Fall, and there’s plenty of ways to get a head start this Huntsville Weekend. Pick your own pumpkin or get lost in a corn maze at the opening weekend at Hidden Rivers Farm. Or get ready for Fall weather without breaking the bank at MOMsMart Fall Consignment Sale. If you don’t find something below, you can always check out our full Event Calendar for even more cool stuff.

2021 Fall Activity Guide

Your ultimate guide to the best Fall ever is here! Pumpkin patches, Fall festivals, concerts and more – all gathered in one place for you! Check out the 2021 Fall Activity Guide to start planning a magical season the entire family will enjoy. We’re also starting to gather events for our Halloween Fun list – be sure we include yours by emailing us!

Huntsville Weekend Fun For Families

Click here to see the weather this weekend

Every week we curate what we think are your best bets for finding a little family fun (and joy) this Huntsville weekend below, but be sure to check out our full calendar if you don’t see anything you like here.

Free & Cheap Activities

• FREE – Shop the Fall fashions for less at MOMsMart Consignment Sale. Details
• FREE – Join the battle at Food Trucks VS. Food Trailers in Big Spring Park. Details
• FREE – Boogie to hip hop, cardio, and more at Dancing for Diversity. Details
• FREE – Watch Soul during Fall Fridays Movies in the Park. Details
• FREE – Grab something yummy from a farmer at the Madison City Farmers Market. Details
• FREE – Browse some of the region’s finest artists at the Monte Sano Art Festival. Details
• FREE – Join Operation Green Team and lend a helping hand for National Clean Up Day. Details
• FREE – Get crafty and browse unique handmade items at the NEACA Fall Craft Show. Details
• FREE – Check out the family-friendly rodeo or the beauty pageant for Eva Frontier Days. Details
• FREE – Shop local vendors and enjoy kid’s rides at Hartselle’s Depot Days. Details
• FREE – Enjoy live music and food trucks at the County Line Concert Series. Details
• FREE – Visit Fort Payne for live music and more at Boom Days Heritage Celebration. Details
• FREE – Play games and crafts based on popular book characters during If You Were In. Details
• FREE – Enjoy a performance by Sylvia Rose Novak during Fall Concerts on the Dock. Details
• FREE – Relax by the Flint during Operation Green Team’s Yoga by the River. Details
• FREE – Head downtown for the Big Spring Park Scavenger Hunt for kids! Details
• FREE – Enjoy an out-of-this-world hunt for Huntsville’s Space Murals. Details

Worth the Money this Huntsville Weekend

• Pick the best pumpkin from the patch during Hidden Rivers Farm Opening Weekend. Details
• Learn how to cast a line at the Learn to Fish Family Workshop. Details
• Have a Huntsville staycation for less with the new Rocket City Kids Pass. Details
• Let the tweens and teens flip over Matrix Gym’s Friday Night Flip Out. Details
• Stroll through the Scarecrow Trail at HBG’s Festifall Celebration. Details
• Explore Alabama’s awesome ecosystems during Cook Museum’s Science on the Spot. Details
• Enjoy an Intro to Astronomy at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center’s INTUITIVE Planetarium. Details
• Visit the Huntsville Botanical Garden for their magical exhibit, Night Blooms. Details

So that’s what we know about. Did we miss something cool happening in the Huntsville area? Leave in the comments or send us a note at info@rocketcitymom.com. If you have a free/cheap family-friendly event you want added to our calendar feel free to submit anytime but keep in mind we have other jobs too so give us a few days heads up

ICYMI…

• 10 Magical Reasons to Visit the Garden this Fall
• Pick the Perfect Bouquet at Moonflower Farms
• Hidden Rivers Returns with New Attractions

DISCLAIMER: We do our best at Rocket City Mom to provide accurate, useful information about events and activities. This information (such as times and locations) is gathered from user submissions, press releases, local newspapers, signs around town and word of mouth. While we always try to confirm details before they are posted in the Huntsville Weekend Roundup, sometimes details change or we are given inaccurate information. Whenever possible we link our write-ups to the source in which our information came from and strongly urge you to confirm details before you go, especially when it comes to outdoor events and weather.

The post Huntsville Weekend Roundup September 17 – 19 appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

Scoot over pumpkin spice lattes, apple slushies just might be the coolest new way to mark the start of Fall. Whether you enjoy one after picking a peck of apples at a local orchard or sip on one after finding the cutest pumpkin in the patch, we’ve rounded up six places to slurp on apple slushies this year.

Apple Slushie Slurp Spots

Lyon Family Farms

130 Bellview Road, Taft, TN (Map)

Phone: 931-438-9938

About a 45 minute drive from Huntsville and Madison, Lyon Family Farms is a family-owned business that has lots to offer! In addition to apple slushies, they also have a pumpkin patch, large play area, a corn maze, farm animal meetings, hayrides, and more.

Scott’s Orchard

2163 Scott Road, Hazel Green (Map)

Phone: 256-828-4563

What better place to sip on an apple slushie than in an actual apple orchard? Located in Hazel Green, Scott’s Orchard allows guests the chance to pick a peck of apples before grabbing their sweet treat. They also have a jump pillow and a farm market to enjoy.

4D Farms

7182 County Road 703, Cullman

Phone: 256-708-5353

Guests can go on an adventure before grabbing their apple slush here. Ride the barnyard coaster, slide down the 250-foot tubing adventure slide, get lost in the corn maze, and more at 4D Farms. In addition to having apple slushies, guests can also enjoy apple cider donuts, homemade fudge, and more.

Tate Farms

8414-A Moores Mill Road, Meridianville (Map)

Phone: 256-828-8288

Hang out with the farm animals, play in the giant sensory barn, pick the perfect pumpkin, and more before enjoying your apple slush at Tate Farm. This Fall fun hot spot is located only 30 minutes from Huntsville.

Isom’s Orchard

24012 US-72, Athens (Map)

256-232-0808

Isom’s Orchard is a family-owned farm in Athens owned by a fourth generation grower! Enjoy a farm market and pumpkin patch while sipping on your apple slush.

Sand Mountain Corn Maze

8420 Cox Gap Road, Sardis City (Map)

256-302-0900

The older kids will love the zombie splatter ride at the Sand Mountain Corn Maze. Grab an apple slush before visiting the pumpkin patch, getting lost in the maze, or taking a hay ride.

You Might Also Like…

• Rocket City Mom’s Fall Fun Guide
• 9 Family Day Trips from Huntsville
• Fall Train Rides to the Pumpkin Patch

The post Six Places to Slurp Apple Slushies this Fall appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

Fall is our favorite time of year, and you know we like to do ALL THE THINGS during the season. But which local Fall farm has your kid’s favorite thing? Which ones have animals to pet? We hope our at-a-glance chart will come in handy when you’re scouting out this year’s autumnal activities. And don’t forget – all the candy corn-coated Fall activities can also be found in our free Explore Huntsville app!

Get the RCM Fall Fun Finder!

Want a printable version? Just click below for a PDF. 

Check Out the FULL Fall Activity Guide

2021 Ultimate Fall Fun Guide

• North Alabama pumpkin patches, corn mazes, & hayrides
• Fall festivals & special events
• Live music & performances
• Fall Break camps for kids
• Fall Break fun for $5 or Less
• Halloween activities in Huntsville & beyond

The post North Alabama Fall Fun Finder appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

It is almost Fall here in the Rocket City. The weather has been just about as gorgeous as we could ever ask for. But I know the really cold weather is on it’s way, and I have pulled out all of my soup recipe cards. We have already been enjoying soup a couple times a week.

Why Fall Soup is the Perfect Food

Soup is one of the most popular foods of Fall for a lot of reasons.

• It warms us from the inside out.
• You can have a pot of soup simmering away on the stove all evening or in the slow cooker all day and dinner is ready whenever you are.
• Soup is a very budget-friendly meal that stretches easily and the leftovers are even better.
• It can be made ahead and frozen.
• There is something magical about a big ol’ bowl of the homemade stuff on a cold and dreary day, and especially when we are sick.
• A lot of parents of picky eaters have success with getting their kids to try new foods if they put it in soup.
• I know my husband won’t touch kale with a 10 foot pole,  but he will eat a big ol’ bowl of Zuppa Toscana filled with kale without a second thought. (But let’s not tell him….)

Our special guest blogger of the month is An Affair From The Heart sharing one of her family’s favorites: Vegetable Beef, Barley and Mushroom Soup, so be sure to check that out! There is something for everyone here to ‘FALL’ for in this collection of soup and chili recipes. Several recipes have been passed down from our families, and I am so happy to share them with you. From our family to yours: Happy Fall!

Our Favorite Fall Soup Recipes

The post Fall Into a Bowl of Our Favorite Fall Soups! appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

The post Protected: New digital pass helps families explore Huntsville, save money, and (maybe) win big. appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

Looking for a fun day trip and a chance to enjoy the outdoors with your kids? Check out the lovely Moonflower Farms in Fort Payne, Alabama, about an hour east of Huntsville. The cooler temps this past weekend provided the perfect opportunity to take my mom and daughter on a multigenerational road trip to this beautiful new U-pick flower farm.

My sweet friend Laura Houk, a local and well-loved school librarian, opened the farm this year with her husband and they have created a peaceful and welcoming space to enjoy mounds of colorful blooms. Their farm land has belonged to her family for generations, and their goal is to honor those who farmed there before by growing beautiful flowers and fostering a place of creativity and community.

The name Moonflower Farms comes from the lovely vine that blooms only at night. Laura’s parents, Ralph and Ruth Patterson, were especially proud of the moonflowers that graced their front porch, so they chose the name to pay tribute to the people who loved this land and spent their lives farming it.

Flower Power at Moonflower Farms

There is plenty of parking, so invite friends and make a day of it! All the necessary snips and containers are provided, and there are a variety of sizes/prices to choose from. My mom and I each chose a large plastic cup for $20 each, and my daughter filled a mini vase for $5.

Our floral masterpieces were bursting with vibrant color and were just the cheery splash of joy our dinner tables needed. Cash, debit/credit, and Venmo are accepted. Souvenir hats and shirts are also available for purchase.

Over the next week or two the final sunflower crop ($1/stem) will be popping open and ready to pick. As they wrap up their U-pick season, stay tuned to the Moonflower Farms social media pages for any off-season event updates, and for 2022 season announcements likely to come in late March or early April depending on crops & weather.

Photographers and special events are welcome, please contact the farm for pricing and reservations.

What’s Growing?

Moonflower Farms will feature local favorites such as sunflowers, zinnias, snapdragons, cosmos, peonies, hydrangeas, strawflowers, rudbeckia, and many others. They will also have lovely fillers such as ammi, bells of Ireland, and basil. Be sure to stroll through the wildflower meadow!

Parent Pro-Tips: Pack the usual outdoor accoutrements of sunscreen, bug spray, water & snacks for the road. There is a porta-potty on site.

Moonflower Farms Details

Where: 948 County Road 112, Fort Payne, AL (map)
When: Saturdays 8-2, Sundays 1-5, Thursdays 5-8 (weather permitting)
View Website | Facebook | Instagram

You Might Also Like…

• Fun things to do with kids in North AL
• Where kids eat free in Huntsville, AL
• Local attractions kids will love

The post Pick the Perfect Bouquet at Moonflower Farms appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

There is little (if anything) worse than losing a child. If you have ever been through this experience, you’ve probably found there aren’t many people who understand the deep grief you feel.

Unfortunately, the need for this special kind of grief support is great in the state of Alabama. There has been an increase in pregnancy and infant deaths over the last few years and Alabama is now one of the leading states for infant death, surpassed only by Mississippi. There are no government funds available to support bereaved families who need to make final arrangements for their baby, or ongoing support to rebuild their lives.

The Alabama Chapter of the TEARS Foundation helps with that. This active group assists many families with funeral services, hosts memorial gatherings remembering Alabama babies, and holds its annual Alabama Rock & Walk gathering for the community and bereaved families to walk and raise funds together in honor of their child to help future families with their expenses.

Ruthe Myers and Jennifer West are the Alabama Chapter of TEARS Chapter Leaders. Both women and their families have experienced infant loss, and now they have made it their mission to help others through it. Recently, they told us more about their support groups and upcoming events & activities.

Alabama TEARS Foundation

The TEARS Foundation is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization which seeks to compassionately assist newly bereaved families who have lost an infant or child by providing financial support for funeral expenses. We believe that every baby’s life deserves to be honored and memorialized according to the grieving parents wishes, and we are committed to helping families with this experience. We also believe that every grieving parent deserves ongoing bereavement care, therefore we offer comprehensive on going bereavement services in the form of support groups and trained peer companions.

Local Support Groups for Grieving Families & Friends

Alabama TEARS offers four support groups that meet regularly:

• Pregnancy & Child Loss Support Group
• Friends in Loss Support Group
• Peer Companions
• Pregnancy & Parenting After Loss (coming later this Fall)

These support groups are for parents and family members that have experienced the loss of a child. Miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS, younger or older children, all losses are welcome.

How often do you meet?

We meet once a month per each type of support group. Pregnancy and Child Loss Support Group, typically meets the first Tuesday of the month at 6:30pm on Zoom. Friends in Loss typically meets the third Sunday of the month. Online and in person meeting locations vary as we look for a regular meeting space and adjust for current COVID guidelines. Peer Companions are one-on one-support based on an individual’s need at that time.

What goes on in a typical group meeting?

The Pregnancy and Child support group is more structured and offers emotional support to those whose child has passed through pregnant loss, stillbirth, infant loss, and child loss. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and loved ones are all welcome. Topics vary each month. The floor is always open for attendees to share or just listen and observe.

Friends in Loss Support Group is very informal and offers emotional support to anyone who has been affected by the death of a child, not just family members. The conversation is free flowing, with no set topic.

Do you participate in other group outings or events?

Typically, we try to have an event 2-3 times a year. Our biggest event is our annual Rock&Walk, coming up September 25th. We always have an event on October 15th to participate in Wave of Light, a commemoration of Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day. In May, for International Bereaved Mother’s Day we also get together – one of the hardest days for many women around the world is Mother’s Day.

We periodically meet in groups for social dinners, though this has currently been on hold during the pandemic.

What sets TEARS apart from other area grief programs?

TEARS support groups are peer-lead by those who have been through a similar journey. We come alongside families in however they need emotional support. While most of our events are in the Huntsville area, we help families throughout the whole state of Alabama.

How can people get involved?

If you have been through a loss and want support, you are always welcome to reach out to us. We are also working on building a committee of volunteers to help at events and in various areas. We have training through our National TEARS Foundation office, if you ever want to become a peer companion to others. You do not have to be a bereaved parent to partake as a volunteer, just someone with a compassionate heart for helping.

Come support us at the 5th Annual Rock&Walk, September 25, 2021 from 10am-1pm at the large pavilion at Monte Sano!  

We also accept small blankets for our care pages, if anyone who likes to sew, knit, or crochet and needs a project.

We have an Amazon wish list for our Alabama chapter, to help us build our care packages for parents.

Alabama TEARS Foundation Details

Meeting Address: Varies, click here for details
Email: alabamachapter@thetearsfoundation.org
View Website | Facebook Page | Instagram

You Might Also Like…

• Lighthouse Photography is a Beacon for Grieving Parents
• A Letter to the Baby I Haven’t Met Yet

The post Supporting Bereaved Parents through TEARS appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

Another Huntsville Weekend is upon us, and there’s something for everyone! Hold onto summer just a little longer at Ditto Landing’s Slide Out of Summer or get ready for fall at the Huntsville Botanical Garden’s Scarecrow Trail. No matter what you’re looking for, the entire family can find something to enjoy. If you don’t find something below, you can always check out our full Event Calendar for even more cool stuff.

2021 Fall Break Camps

It seems like school just started back yesterday, but Fall Break will be here before we know it! We’ve made planning the ultimate break easy with a complete list of Fall Break Camps in North Alabama. View the camps and register here. We’re adding new ones as we learn about them!

Huntsville Weekend Fun For Families

Click here to see the weather this weekend

Every week we curate what we think are your best bets for finding a little family fun (and joy) this Huntsville weekend below, but be sure to check out our full calendar if you don’t see anything you like here.

Free & Cheap Activities

• FREE – Stroll through the Friday Night Art Walk in downtown Huntsville and browse local vendors. Details
• FREE – Enjoy games, food, raffles, and more during the Summer Bash 2021. Details
• FREE – Watch Guardians of the Galaxy during Fall Fridays Movies in the Park. Details
• FREE – Jam to the Cigar Box Serenaders during Fall Concerts on the Dock. Details
• FREE – Enjoy kids stations, performances, and more at The Good Music & Arts Festival. Details
• FREE – Break out the glow sticks for Park & Bass IX Glow Flow. Details
• FREE – Celebrate recycled music during the 17th Annual Cigar Box Guitar Festival. Details
• FREE – Check out the 325 Block Party for food, live entertainment, and more. Details
• FREE – Dust off your cape for Eli’s Block Party and Superhero Day. Details
• FREE – Cuddle adoptable kittens with Feline Fanciers during Brews n’ Mews. Details
• FREE – Relax by the Flint during Operation Green Team’s Yoga by the River. Details
• FREE – Head downtown for the Big Spring Park Scavenger Hunt for kids! Details
• FREE – Grab something yummy from a farmer at the Madison City Farmers Market. Details
• FREE – Enjoy an out-of-this-world hunt for Huntsville’s Space Murals. Details

Worth the Money this Huntsville Weekend

• Stroll through the Scarecrow Trail at the Huntsville Botanical Garden. Details
• Enjoy old fashioned music during Music on the Mountain Day at Burritt. Details
• Get an up-close look at Cool Cranes during Cook Museum’s Science on the Spot. Details
• Enjoy a little more summer fun at Ditto Landing’s Slide Out of Summer. Details
• Groove to Huntsville in the Mood Band during Burritt’s City Lights and Stars Concert. Details
• Go stargazing at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center’s INTUITIVE Planetarium. Details
• Visit the Huntsville Botanical Garden for their magical exhibit, Night Blooms. Details

So that’s what we know about. Did we miss something cool happening in the Huntsville area? Leave in the comments or send us a note at info@rocketcitymom.com. If you have a free/cheap family-friendly event you want added to our calendar feel free to submit anytime but keep in mind we have other jobs too so give us a few days heads up

ICYMI…

• Fall Break Camps for Kids in North Alabama
• North AL Birthday Party Planner
• Tutors & Tutoring Services in North Alabama

DISCLAIMER: We do our best at Rocket City Mom to provide accurate, useful information about events and activities. This information (such as times and locations) is gathered from user submissions, press releases, local newspapers, signs around town and word of mouth. While we always try to confirm details before they are posted in the Huntsville Weekend Roundup, sometimes details change or we are given inaccurate information. Whenever possible we link our write-ups to the source in which our information came from and strongly urge you to confirm details before you go, especially when it comes to outdoor events and weather.

The post Huntsville Weekend Roundup September 10 – 12 appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

Have you discovered 4D Farm? A short trip South on 565 or 231 will land you there in no time. This beautiful family farm is situated on roughly 96 acres of land and offers beautiful views and an expansive space to explore, play, and do all things Fall!

The Corn Maze & Playground

We started in the corn maze where you have an option to complete the first leg (perfect with the littles) and then, if you are feeling brave, continue to leg 2. A couple who’d traveled in the same day as us had completed the second stretch in 55 minutes. Want a maze challenge? This is it!

The kids busied themselves with play in the 80-foot black mamba slide, 2,000 square-foot jumper pillow, duck races, farm house/barn slides, swings, and a multitude of other playthings. There were so many options and kids of all ages (including a 39 year old I know) enjoyed them all including a 250-foot Tubing Adventure Slide, the 80-foot Lane’s LandSlide, a barnyard coaster (!!!), mechanical swing ride, pony cart ride, and ziplines. The fun never stops!

This is a family farm, and the Daniel boys joined my children in the sand pile at the back of the farm. I feel confident my kids would have played in that area the entire 4 hours we were there.

4D Farm Piggie Races & Petting Zoo

We had to pause for the pig races. Listen, those of you who know me know I have a very special place for pigs. This pig race was one of the cutest things I have ever seen. The children cheered them on and squealed with delight. You could tell the pigs enjoy this little race. It is a small, non-rigorous track out of their pens and back, and this was one of the many things that impressed me highly about this farm. The animals were so well cared for. They were happy, and happy to interact with the kids. The goats welcomed us into the pen to feed them and the pony loved giving rides! The hog named Wilbur delighted, and the sheep and horses were kind and well loved. The Daniel boys raise these animals as their pets. Because of this, the animals were very welcoming to all of the kids!

Snacks & Amenities

There were clean restrooms and a snack bar – DO NOT MISS THE KETTLE CORN! You can also expect fresh, homemade apple cider donuts, apple cider slushies, funnel cakes, homemade fudge, and churro sundaes as well as burgers, chicken tenders, and pizza. There is plenty of picnic table seating and, across the way a bit, some shaded board games and rocking chairs if momma needs to take a break with baby!

4D Farm Pumpkin Patch

After all of the play, the cow train, the games, and the fun, we hopped on the hayride and rode out to the field. We had a choice of small pumpkins or large. I loved this because I got to encourage the kids to pick and carry their own. On the way out, we were able to shop a variety of decorative (and delicious!) gourds and pumpkins.

4D Farm adds new attractions to their grounds every year – check out all their latest additions HERE.

Field Trips

4D Farm is open to field trips for 2021! Teachers – take a look at their field trips and start planning for your class visit on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays in October.

As the gauge for any parent goes… when my son woke this morning, he said to me, “Mommy, yesterday was the most fun I have ever had!” My thanks to the Daniel family for their hard work on this beautiful farm. Don’t miss it this season, and watch for us, because we’ll be back soon!

4D Farm Details for 2021

View Website | Map | Facebook Page

Dates: Saturday, September 25 – November 6, 2021

Hours: September Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
October Hours: Wednesdays & Thursdays 2-6 PM; Fridays 2-8 PM; Saturdays 10AM – 6PM; Sundays 1-6 PM
November Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Cost: Weekends: $15 online /$20 gate; Weekdays: $12 online /$15 gate; under 2 are FREE | purchase online
Special rates apply to field trips. Homeschool days are available! This year you can also book a party! 

Covid-19 Updates

4D Farm will not be requiring masks, but will ask the guest social distance as much as possible per CDC guidelines. They are taking extra precautions with cleaning heavily-trafficked areas of the farm more frequently throughout the day.

You Might Also Like…

Fall Activity Guide to Huntsville & North AL
Find More Local Pumpkin Patches 
14 Easy Day Trips From Huntsville

The post 4-D Farm Offers Tons of Fall Family Fun in Cullman appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

Fall is my favorite time of year to hike: the weather cools and Fall Break is a great time to go on a hike. During this season, you may not see many flowers, but there are mushrooms that vary from big to small and colors that range from neon orange to a speckled brown, even bright blue. Yum! I am getting hungry just thinking about mushrooms. I’m just kidding! You do NOT want to eat unknown mushrooms because you could get really sick. Furthermore, they wouldn’t be as tasty as candy.

Speaking of candy, Halloween is right around the corner. Therefore, that means the foliage is turning. The leaves change to red, orange, yellow, brown, and best of all they can even be mixed. Either way, they are very, very, very beautiful.

Where exactly would you see the leaves turn from boring green to a rainbow you can touch? Well, there is one or a hundred different hikes that I could tell you about! Not really a hundred, but there’s a lot, though I’m just talking about five different hikes today.

While reading this you’ll see stuff like my fun-o-meter (scale of how much fun something is) and beauty scale (measures my personal opinion of the trail’s beauty).There will also be links to trail descriptions on Alltrails.com. Why don’t you read along and explore these fall hikes with me?

Local Fall Hikes Families Will Love

Monte Sano State Park – Stone Cuts Trail

Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 2.4 miles
Alltrails Info
Drive time from Huntsville: 0-15 minutes depending on where you start
Beauty Scale: 10
Fun-o-meter: 10
This is my favorite of all the hikes because there are rocks to climb, so be sure to invite your friends to join you. Stone Cuts Trail gets its name from the vertical and horizontal cuts in the boulders. A stone cut is pretty much a rock that looks like it was sliced in half. Stone Cuts Trail is easiest to access via Sinks Trail. Its terrain is rocky, great for climbing. I really like to walk through and explore the stone cuts, and most of all climb on the boulders.

Yonder Girl Pro-Tip: In the fall, you can see all sorts of foliage. It’s like a rainbow you can touch, but do not touch poison ivy and poison oak. These plants contain urushiol, an oil that makes many people all itchy, itchy, ITCHY.

Monte Sano State Park – McKay Hollow Trail

Difficulty: Difficult | Distance: 5.15 miles
Alltrails Info
Drive time from Huntsville: 0-15 minutes depending on where you start
Beauty Scale: 9
Fun-o-meter: 6

This is a great place to see fall foliage and sit on a big rock that looks like a toilet bowl. We started at a pavilion near the entrance of Monte Sano State Park and proceeded into McKay Hollow. Along the way you may even spot a tree that looks like an infinity loop. Follow the trail up the other side of the hollow and take the short detour to O’Shaunessy Point. It is worth the extra effort to get there and back, just to see this special spot and have a snack. And of course, go for the fiery foliage.

Wade Mountain Nature Preserve – Devil’s Race Track and Wade Mountain Summit

Difficulty: Moderate | Distance: 4.8 miles
Alltrails Info
Drive time from Huntsville: 0-15 minutes depending on where you start
Beauty Scale: 5 in the summer, 7 or 8 in the fall
Fun-o-meter: 6

The only views are of the leaves because there are a lot of trees. At least the leaves are pretty and especially prettiest in the fall. That is why I recommend this trail for fall hiking. At the beginning, Devil’s Race Track Trail is fairly easy to hike, but Wade Mountain Trail gets harder as you climb up to the summit. At the summit, you might be lucky enough to find geodes. If you are lucky and you do find these geologic Easter eggs, you should leave them where you found them, so other people can see and enjoy them too.

Yonder Girl Pro-Tip: If you want to keep what you find, try a commercial quartz mine. You can read about my adventures in the Quartz Capital of the World at Yonder Girl.

Sipsey Wilderness – Borden Creek Trail

Difficulty: Moderate | Distance: 4.9 miles
Alltrails Info
Drive time from Huntsville: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Beauty Scale: 9
Fun-o-meter: 10
I LOVE this hike too because the foliage and creeks make for a beauteous combination. The trail begins by descending the canyon walls and continues by following the banks of Borden Creek. The colorful rock bluffs are so beautiful. And if you are super observant you may see tree roots wrapped around car-sized rocks. Make sure your shoes are sturdy so they don’t fall apart like my Dad’s did. Mom says, in all fairness, they were very sturdy shoes when he bought them… 15 years ago!

Yonder Girl Pro-Tip: There are great camping spots in the Sipsey with easy access to water. Just be sure to filter it before drinking or cooking with it.

Fall Creek Falls State Park – Fall Creek Falls and Cane Creek Falls Trail

Difficulty: Moderate or Difficult | Distance: 2.3 miles
Alltrails Info
Drive time from Huntsville: 2 hours
Beauty Scale: 9
Fun-o-meter: 10
Personally, I love waterfalls. So what could be better than the beautiful waterfalls of Fall Creek Falls State Park in Tennessee. Parts of the trail are very, very, VERY rocky, but it is worth the effort to access special and fun places like Cane Creek Cascade. If you love to play in water like I do, you will be so happy. At the bottom of the cascade, you can play in a shallow creek with cold refreshing water. Plus, I love rock-hopping in the creek. I loved it so much that when it was time to go, Mom pretty much had to chase me down and capture me! In the creek, there are shallow and deep spots. So, watch your step! Though it does make the creek more interesting. You probably won’t be the only one splashing around: there were a lot of people doing the same when we were there. You should also visit the base of Fall Creek Falls. When you do, it is important that you follow posted instructions and don’t cross the barricade.

Yonder Girl Pro-Tip: If you plan to play in the water, pack swim clothes, water shoes, and a towel. Mom says, parents should consider bringing a lasso. I think she’s joking. Maybe?

You Might Also Like…

• Fall Activity Guide for Huntsville & the Tennessee Valley
• Beat the Heat with an Underground Caving Retreat
• Beginner Hikes for Kids in North AL 

The post It’s Fall Y’all: Five Fall Foliage Hikes for Families appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

It’s a long Huntsville weekend and there’s plenty of fun to go around for Labor Day. Be an Entomologist for a Day with Cook Museum, visit Smith Lake for the Sweet Tater Festival, or enjoy a mini summer camp at Escape the Indoors. If you don’t find something below, you can always check out our full Event Calendar for even more cool stuff.

Fall Break Camps

It seems like school just started back yesterday, but Fall Break will be here before we know it! We’ve made planning the ultimate break easy with a complete list of Fall Break Camps in North Alabama. View the camps and register here.

Huntsville Weekend Fun For Families

Click here to see the weather this weekend

Every week we curate what we think are your best bets for finding a little family fun (and joy) this Huntsville weekend below, but be sure to check out our full calendar if you don’t see anything you like here.

Free & Cheap Activities

• FREE – Groove to the Rocket City Latin Band during Lowe Mill’s Fall Concerts on the Dock. Details
• FREE – Relax by the Flint during Operation Green Team’s Yoga by the River. Details
• FREE – Enjoy arts & crafts vendors, food, and more at the Smith Lake Sweet Tater Festival. Details
• FREE – Have all the fun of a summer camp at Escape the Outdoors. Details
• FREE – Celebrate your favorite book characters during If You Were In. Details
• FREE – Catch an Outdoor Storytime at Downtown Huntsville or Madison Library.
• FREE – Enjoy food trucks, music, and more during Arab’s SugarFest. Details
• FREE – Shop the latest fall trends at the Cullman Wee Swap Consignment Sale. Details
• FREE – Grab a bite to eat downtown during Food Truck Vs. Food Trailers. Details
• FREE – Join Fit4Mom Madison for a storytime and playgroup at Dublin Park. Details
• FREE – Shop local arts & crafts makers during First Fridays in Downtown Florence. Details
• FREE – Play chess during the Madison City Chess League’s Kids’ Night. Details
• FREE – Enjoy food and fun during The Bunker Military Outreach Military Appreciation Night. Details
• FREE – Visit the Downtown Library for a Beginner’s Book Club meeting. Details
• FREE – Head downtown for the Big Spring Park Scavenger Hunt for kids! Details
• FREE – Grab something yummy from a farmer at the Madison City Farmers Market. Details
• FREE – Enjoy an out-of-this-world hunt for Huntsville’s Space Murals. Details

Worth the Money this Huntsville Weekend

• Be an Entomologist for a Day at Cook Museum of Natural Science. Details
• Enjoy a Parents’ Night Out while the kids jump and play at Matrix Gym. Details
• Discover the wonders of nature during the Huntsville Botanical Garden’s Seeds to Sprouts. Details
• Go stargazing at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center’s INTUITIVE Planetarium. Details
• Shop local makers, enjoy live music, and more at Scottboro’s Art Sunday. Details
• Visit the Huntsville Botanical Garden for their magical new exhibit, Night Blooms. Details
• Head to Burritt On the Mountain for a fun weekend GeoQuest adventure. Details

So that’s what we know about. Did we miss something cool happening in the Huntsville area? Leave in the comments or send us a note at info@rocketcitymom.com. If you have a free/cheap family-friendly event you want added to our calendar feel free to submit anytime but keep in mind we have other jobs too so give us a few days heads up

ICYMI…

• Fall Break Camps for Kids in North Alabama
• North AL Birthday Party Planner
• Tutors & Tutoring Services in North Alabama

DISCLAIMER: We do our best at Rocket City Mom to provide accurate, useful information about events and activities. This information (such as times and locations) is gathered from user submissions, press releases, local newspapers, signs around town and word of mouth. While we always try to confirm details before they are posted in the Huntsville Weekend Roundup, sometimes details change or we are given inaccurate information. Whenever possible we link our write-ups to the source in which our information came from and strongly urge you to confirm details before you go, especially when it comes to outdoor events and weather.

The post Huntsville Weekend Roundup September 3 – 6 appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

I first met this dynamic Rocket City mom  at a women’s leadership event over eight years ago. Her passion for community service is contagious, and now she’s doing important work as director of Christmas Charities Year Round in Huntsville. When she’s not fundraising for school supplies to give students in need, advocating for a better quality of life for families, or stocking the CCYR Mobile Closet for local kids to wear, she’s also a pretty awesome mom.

Read below to find out more about Hilary’s journey into nonprofit service and why we think she’s an Awesome Mom of Huntsville!

Her Passions

Saving the world… well, that may be a bit lofty, but my passion is to help bend the arch towards a more just and humanitarian community here in Huntsville. Joining CCYR (Christmas Charities Year Round) last year as their executive director is my dream job!

Hilary’s Motherhood Journey (So far!)

Where I am now, is a lovely place to be… but this was not the plan. I married right out of college and was ready to change the world as a career woman of the late 80’s! Before I knew it, 29 was around the corner, and my baby-clock was ticking LOUDLY. We dove into starting our family. (“How hard can it be?”) Two long years later, exhausted, stuck in miserable jobs, our marriage on the ropes, we made a major life change and moved to Europe following Derrick’s career. Eight years overseas afforded me the time and financial freedom to reevaluate my path. I was terrified of staying at home full-time with this little munchkin whom I was still getting to know. It also was a time to embrace these fears and try to figure out this whole “mom thing”. I worked at it and found that I sort of liked it.

We added our 2nd daughter while in Italy, 4 years apart. After moving back to the states, we landed in Huntsville with a kindergartner and 5th grader, and I decided to figure out the PTA and how to manage soccer teams. I started dipping my toe back in to the world of workers through the nonprofit sector at Partnership for a Drug-Free Community, and I was hooked! No pun intended – I was addicted to community service. I worked when the kids were in school, trying out new adventures with various nonprofit/community service jobs. In the afternoons and evenings, I tried to embrace the mess and welcomed sleepovers with pancake mornings, road trips with full minivans to parks, and beaches and Lowe Mill dock concerts on Friday nights. The mess of childhood really is quite short, and when we evolved to the middle school & high school ages I found that I could invest more and more of my time towards a career or community service – things that filled my cup.

Now, as a mom of adult children, I am genuinely enjoying a full-time career more than I thought I could. The kids are always in the back of my brain, and when the phone vibrates with a text or call from either, my heart stops for a moment… are they ok, what do I need to fix… and surprisingly most of the time it’s just a connection to share good news, or lousy news. My time of “fixing” or “making things right” are coming to a close, and I am loving this new chapter more than I thought I would.

Her Quest for Balance

I pursue the work/life balance daily! But I never achieve a true balance. Moving from full time mom to working mom for me was a weird combination of doing it all, but not having the time to be great at either. I was either late for carpool or missing a meeting at work. Now with 26- and 22-year-old daughters, it seems I was much too hard on myself. I always felt that without achieving balance, I was failing. Now I realize that investing time and energy to make it balance – it’s never “found” – is just as important and rewarding.

Her Rocket City Favorites

My favorite Huntsville Friday night plans are eating somewhere on the square downtown and people watching or hearing live music. Coffee in pjs Saturday morning with cuddles from Charlie the pooch, until I feel compelled to put on a bra. Blowing leaves from the yard is surprisingly satisfying. I sweat, breathe, and disconnect with social media and re-connect with nature. There might be a visit from the youngest with her buddies from Tuscaloosa and the eldest who lives down the street, convincing my husband to make their favorite meals, talking about current issues and laughing about our favorite TikToks until a campfire in the back yard seems like the right next step. Sunday morning at the Lady of our Sacred Bagels and Brunch, with cream cheese and lox. Urban exploring or a wander through Big Spring. Laundry completed to ensure fresh sheets after a final decompress in the hot tub, watching stars, with Grateful Dead in the background, and my hunky hubby with me ready to tackle the world tomorrow.

Funniest Parenting Moment

Daniela and Daycare: Dan was almost 3 years old and 2 mornings a week, while big sister Sam was in school, I brought Daniela to a morning daycare on the Army Post in Harrogate England. Daniela struggled with her “L’s” and would pop her pacifier in her mouth like a cigar. She always kept us laughing. This day, she was not in the mood for daycare, and I had an appointment to get to. I tried everything to convince her, “But, Sammy’s going to school and now you get to go to your school too…”
“No, Mom! I don’t want to.”
“They’ll be games and music, and stories…”
“NO, MOM! I DON’T WANT TO GO!”
“But all of you friends will miss you if you don’t…” That’s when she cut me off, eyes fiery, using her pacifier as a Bill Clinton knuckle pointer, to help punctuate her argument even as she was resigned to giving in, but needed to make one final stand.
“MOM! JUST YEAVE IT A-YONE!” Our family will forever use this L-less statement when we have given up, but are still pissed.

Hilary Shares Her Top Parenting Tips

Calm always wins. If you can manage not to yell or jump too quickly, if you can slow down and be kind and understanding first before fixing whatever needs to be rectified, usually the outcome will be better. As a non-spanker, I yelled… a lot. My biggest regret from early childhood parenting is that I wish I had approached more issues with a calmer head and yelled less.

The Super Power She Wishes She Had

Flying, no question. I think the freedom to be wherever you want to be without the hassle of cars and looking down from above, knowing exactly where I am, is a very calming and powerful feeling. Or being able to sing like Idina Menzel.

Her Playlist

Get your Gameface on – “Formation” by Beyonce
Recover from heartbreak -Anything from Jagged Little Pill, Alanis Morrissette. Especially “You Oughta Know”
Energize yourself – “Feelin’ Good” (Bassnectar Remix)
Let loose and have fun with your friends – “Hey Ya!” by Outcast… or any thing with a good sing-along chorus.

You Might Also Like…

• Meet More Awesome Moms of Huntsville
• Tales from the Parenting Trenches
• Find Family Fun in Huntsville

The post Awesome Moms of Huntsville: Hilary Gould appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

Another Huntsville weekend is here, and there’s lots to enjoy together as the seasons change. Stock up on Fall and Winter attire at a consignment sale, enjoy a last summer movie night in the park, or immerse yourself in the Broadway Theatre League’s free production of ArtRageous. If you don’t find something below, you can always check out our full Event Calendar for even more cool stuff.

Make a Last Summer Splash

Pumpkin Spice is already popping up everywhere and time is running out to visit area water attractions! We’ve compiled a list of all the places to cool down in North Alabama with hours, locations, and even some parent tips. Plan your trip here.

Huntsville Weekend Fun For Families

Click here to see the weather this weekend

Every week we curate what we think are your best bets for finding a little family fun (and joy) this Huntsville weekend below, but be sure to check out our full calendar if you don’t see anything you like here.

Free & Cheap Activities

• Just $5 – Enjoy special pricing every Thursday at Earlyworks & the Huntsville Art Museum.
• FREE – Jam to Carver Commodore during Lowe Mill’s Fall Concerts on the Dock. Details
• FREE – Immerse yourself in a visual journey during the BTL’s production of ArtRageous. Details
• FREE – Shop the latest fall trends at The Boutique Closet Consignment Sale. Details
• FREE – Journey across the ocean with Moana during Movies in the Park. Details
• FREE – Shop local vendors at Hubert Farm during the Midsummer Market. Details
• FREE – Round up the girls and Learn to Play Lacrosse with the Huntsville Wolfpack Lacrosse Club. Details
• FREE – Kick anxiety to the curb with a Kids Free Self-Defense Class with Golden Karate. Details
• FREE – Grab your COVID-19 vaccine during Huntsville Bible College’s Community Vaccine Day. Details
• FREE – Shop at Athens Kids Mart and find fresh fall and winter looks. Details
• FREE – Head downtown for the Big Spring Park Scavenger Hunt for kids! Details
• FREE – Grab something yummy from a farmer at the Madison City Farmers Market. Details
• FREE – Get artsy and go on a “hidden” mural hunt around the Rocket City. Details

Worth the Money this Huntsville Weekend

• Go stargazing at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center’s INTUITIVE Planetarium. Details
• Take a sip for a good cause during the Huntsville Coffee and Tea Festival. Details
• Learn about plants in our food during the Huntsville Botanical Garden’s Nature Academy. Details
• Explore the universe during I.D.E.A.S Lab and let your imagination run wild. Details
• Join the Land Trust of North Alabama in the Tinker Lab at EarlyWorks this weekend. Details
• Visit the Huntsville Botanical Garden for their breathtaking new exhibit, Night Blooms. Details
• Head to Burritt On the Mountain for a fun weekend GeoQuest adventure. Details
• Build a plane and let learning soar at Summer STEAM in the Park . Details

So that’s what we know about. Did we miss something cool happening in the Huntsville area? Leave in the comments or send us a note at info@rocketcitymom.com. If you have a free/cheap family-friendly event you want added to our calendar feel free to submit anytime but keep in mind we have other jobs too so give us a few days heads up

ICYMI…

• Free Driver’s Education Courses Start in September
• North AL Birthday Party Planner
• Tutors & Tutoring Services in North Alabama

DISCLAIMER: We do our best at Rocket City Mom to provide accurate, useful information about events and activities. This information (such as times and locations) is gathered from user submissions, press releases, local newspapers, signs around town and word of mouth. While we always try to confirm details before they are posted in the Huntsville Weekend Roundup, sometimes details change or we are given inaccurate information. Whenever possible we link our write-ups to the source in which our information came from and strongly urge you to confirm details before you go, especially when it comes to outdoor events and weather.

The post Huntsville Weekend Roundup August 27 – 29 appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

With kids back in school and many of them not yet able to be vaccinated, pediatric Covid cases are popping up all over Alabama. And while children have been less affected by COVID-19 compared to adults, they can and are becoming infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, with some developing severe illness and effects that linger. Many students in the Huntsville area are experiencing exposure at school, which leads to a growing need for pediatric Covid tests across North Alabama.

Urgent Care for Children has two local locations – on Carl T. Jones Drive in Huntsville, and on Highway 72 in Madison. Parents that need a fast COVID test for their children will be able to get them here, with a variety of options:

• Rapid antigen test (results in 15-45 minutes)
• PCR test (results in 3-5 days)
• Antibody testing (results in 15-45 minutes)

Urgent Care for Children’s Kids Covid Testing Tips

Getting tested can cause a lot of fear and anxiety in some children – it’s a scary topic that has been in the news nonstop for well over a year. Kids might have heard horror stories about getting “brain swabbed” or worry about the process being painful.

We spoke to Erin Percy, CRNP and Clinical Director at Urgent Care for Children in Madison about how parents can help their child in the event they need a COVID-19 test.

Helping Children through a COVID-19 test

Gentle Swabbing vs Brain Swabbing
In the earlier days of Covid, getting tested was often referred to as “brain swabbing” since the swab went so far into the nasal cavity. But Urgent Care for Children takes the gentle swabbing approach.

“We do gentle swabbing at the base of the nose, usually two swabs per test.” Kids that have visited Urgent Care for Children for a Covid test are often surprised about how easy and painless it is. “Most kids say it doesn’t hurt – it kind of tickles – and last less than a few seconds.”

If a rapid test is negative, we recommend also sending off the PCR test just to be sure. If you do not have symptoms or if you are past day five of exposure, a PCR is the way to go.” Percy also says the Delta strain of Covid-19 is rarely presenting as asymptomatic.

Reducing the Fear of the Unknown

Preparation is key to helping kids overcome anxiety about getting a Covid test. Percy had some great advice for parents and caregivers managing their child’s apprehensions:

• Let your child know they are getting tested in advance; don’t keep them in the dark.
• Reassure kids that the test itself only takes a few seconds.
• Practice with a Q-tip at home before you go. They are larger than the actual swabs!
• If you are also getting tested, go first to show how easy it is.
• We’re not above bribery – Urgent Care for Children has popsicles, lollipops, juice, stickers – whatever it takes!

If you have an infant that has been exposed and is having symptoms, the testing process is the same. “So far, our youngest Covid testing patient was 6 weeks old,” Percy said.

Scheduling a Covid Test at Urgent Care for Children

Once you’ve been informed of a Covid exposure at school or your child starts to have Covid symptoms, it’s time to make arrangements to get tested. You can schedule your visit HERE to Urgent Care for Children in Huntsville or Madison, as well as get details about the process. Parents should note most Urgent Care lobbies are closed and patients will be waiting in their car. Lately, wait times have been high at all testing locations in North Alabama, so it’s best to be prepared.

“I’m telling families to bring a fully charged phone and make sure there’s gas in the tank. Bring things to do while you wait in your car. And do not go to the ER for a test unless you have very serious symptoms. The Emergency Rooms at local hospitals are not testing kids that have mild to moderate symptoms or those that are not in respiratory distress.” In other words, please don’t go to the ER unless you think you or your child should be admitted.

For children with autism or sensory issues, Urgent Care for Children is proud to be the nation’s first sensory inclusive pediatric urgent care facility. All Urgent Care for Children clinics have sensory accommodations for patients who respond well to a quieter, more secure environment. Urgent Care for Children’s team of pediatricians, nurse practitioners and medical professionals have been trained to respond to pediatric patients with sensory needs and adapt their approach to treatment accordingly.

My Child Got a Covid Test. Now What?

Many families are concerned about returning to activities or visiting family members after they have children tested. Percy says most have questions about how to proceed next.

“We recommend a 10-14 day isolation from onset of symptoms or a positive test. After that time, most otherwise healthy kids can return to school, activities, or visit family. It’s important to note students cannot “test out” of quarantine from school – the 14 day quarantine is mandatory for most local school systems, even if you get a negative test. You can still test positive up to 90 days after having Covid, even if you have recovered from symptoms.”

You Might Also Like…

Huntsville Hospital’s Maternity Visitation Policy During Covid
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The post Covid Tests for Kids: Tips for Parents from Urgent Care for Children appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

What began as a single meet up for all the kids that are different, quickly became a multifaceted group with monthly meet ups and small get togethers along the way. Serving LGBQT kids, kids on the spectrum, those that are into art, gamers, and more, Weird Kids Meet Up of North Alabama is on a mission to change the definition of the word weird.

The Birth of Weird Kids Meet Up of North Alabama

Jessica Cotton is the owner of Shenanigans Comedy Theatre in Huntsville and started the group to help out fellow “weirdos.”

“My mantra has always been weird is my favorite compliment, so my kids see it as a badge of honor instead of an insult. We are weird at our house, so I knew there were other kids that probably needed a self-esteem boost, especially after COVID and the shut downs.” Cotton said.

Taking the idea and running with it, Cotton planned a get together open to all “weird” kids, tweens, and teens in the North Alabama area. With game tables, an art and coloring area, and even a movie playing for those that don’t feel like talking, the Weird Kids Meet Up had something for everyone to enjoy. Despite being unsure of what to expect, Cotton said over 30 kids made it to the first one and that it was so successful it grew into a Facebook group.

“The first 30 mins it’s quiet then after two hours, they are shrieking. Teens are shrieking and the kids are having a good time. Everyone is smiling and that makes me happy,” Cotton said.

From the one initial event, the group now offers hang outs one Sunday a month from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. with smaller get-togethers along the way. Cotton said the group has become a place for members to invite each other to the mall or the library for fun in between the meetings – a true safe haven for weird kids.

“Being in the school system I am seeing this rising of kids that are expressing themselves more and just being their own people – being weird compared to their peers. We really aren’t weird in terms of we’re the only one like ourselves, we just may not all be in the same room. There’s tons of us. There are way more weird kids than there are normal, we just aren’t all together,” Cotton said.

How to Get Involved

If you have a kiddo that meets the criteria and is interested in attending the next Weird Kids Meet Up, Cotton said the best way to keep up with upcoming events is by joining the Weird Kids Meet Up of North Alabama Facebook page. Cotton says all the events are free and open to the public, with snacks and drinks available for purchase.

Cotton says parents that are interested in holding their own events or helping out with the group can also get in touch by calling 256-640-3296.

You Might Also Like…

• How Dungeons & Dragons Can Harness Your Kids’ Imagination & Creativity
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The post Weird Kids on the Block: New Group Offers Safe Haven appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..

It’s another exciting Huntsville weekend in the Rocket City and there’s plenty of fun to enjoy with the entire family. Build your perfect masterpiece at EarlyWork’s Lego Extravaganza, sample some of the Rocket City’s finest cuisine during Huntsville Restaurant Week, or enjoy a last taste of summer at a Watermelon Festival. If you don’t find something below, you can always check out our full Event Calendar for even more cool stuff.

Experience a Taste of the Rocket City

It’s Huntsville Restaurant Week and there’s plenty of goodness to enjoy – even with picky eaters! Check out our article on how to enjoy restaurant week with kids here.

Huntsville Weekend Fun For Families

Click here to see the weather this weekend

Every week we curate what we think are your best bets for finding a little family fun (and joy) this Huntsville weekend below, but be sure to check out our full calendar if you don’t see anything you like here.

Free & Cheap Activities

• Just $5 – Enjoy special pricing every Thursday at Earlyworks & the Huntsville Art Museum.
• FREE – Visit downtown and grab something tasty from Food Trucks Vs. Food Trailers in Big Spring Park. Details
• FREE – Stroll downtown Athens during Fridays After Five and enjoy vendors, art, food trucks, and more. Details
• FREE – Go to the Watermelon Festival to enjoy music, food, and more – just don’t swallow the seeds! Details
• FREE – Enjoy music, kids activities, and more on the banks of Wheeler Lake during Rockin’ the River. Details
• FREE – Shop for fall and winter looks at the Sweet Repeats Consignment Sale in Madison. Details
• FREE – Shop ’til you drop for fall and winter looks at the Kids’ Swap Consignment Sale. Details
• FREE – Celebrate your favorite books and genres during If Your Were In at the Downtown Library. Details
• FREE – Hang out with Tom & Jerry during Hope Church’s Community Movie Night. Details
• FREE – Head downtown for the Big Spring Park Scavenger Hunt for kids! Details
• FREE – Grab something yummy from a farmer at the Madison City Farmers Market. Details
• FREE – Get artsy and go on a “hidden” mural hunt around the Rocket City. Details

Worth the Money this Huntsville Weekend

• Build your perfect weekend during EarlyWork’s Lego Extravaganza weekend. Details
• Drop off the tween and teens for some flipping fun during Friday Night Flip Out at Matrix Gym. Details
• Learn about insects order and anatomy during the Insect Pinning Workshop at Cook Museum. Details
• Celebrate the 101st anniversary of women voting during Votes for Women at Burritt. Details
• Join the First Robotics League in the Tinker Lab at EarlyWorks this weekend. Details
• Visit the Huntsville Botanical Garden for their breathtaking new exhibit, Night Blooms. Details
• Head to Burritt On the Mountain for a fun weekend GeoQuest adventure. Details
• Check out the Space & Rocket Center’s Drone exhibit & hands-on activities. Details
• Build a plane and let learning soar at Summer STEAM in the Park . Details
• Visit a local water park for some cool summer fun! Details

So that’s what we know about. Did we miss something cool happening in the Huntsville area? Leave in the comments or send us a note at info@rocketcitymom.com. If you have a free/cheap family-friendly event you want added to our calendar feel free to submit anytime but keep in mind we have other jobs too so give us a few days heads up

ICYMI…

• How to Enjoy Huntsville Restaurant Week with Kids
• North AL Birthday Party Planner
• Tutors & Tutoring Services in North Alabama

DISCLAIMER: We do our best at Rocket City Mom to provide accurate, useful information about events and activities. This information (such as times and locations) is gathered from user submissions, press releases, local newspapers, signs around town and word of mouth. While we always try to confirm details before they are posted in the Huntsville Weekend Roundup, sometimes details change or we are given inaccurate information. Whenever possible we link our write-ups to the source in which our information came from and strongly urge you to confirm details before you go, especially when it comes to outdoor events and weather.

The post Huntsville Weekend Roundup August 20 – 22 appeared first on Rocket City Mom | Huntsville events, activities, and resources for families..