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International Astronomy Day – Highland Road Park Observatory

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Are your kids interested in anything and everything science? Bring them out to Highland Road Park Observatory for the worldwide celebration of all things astronomy, physics, aeronautics, and the American space program at International Astronomy Day on May 15 from 3-11 p.m. Every year since 2007, Highland Road Park Observatory has proudly taken part in International Astronomy Day, a celebration of all things related to astronomy, physics, aeronautics, and the American space program. Old favorites and new surprises will make this International Astronomy Day a day to remember. Our family has enjoyed this annual event for years, there’s always something new to see and learn! Be sure to bring cash for food and merchandise too! 

International Astronomy Day

Saturday, 15 May from 3:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Free admission. For all ages.
Binoculars recommended after 7:30 pm

International Astronomy Day Schedule

3:15 pm to 5:15 pm = VIEWING: Sun? [Front Viewing Pad]

Our parent star (in the constellation Taurus? at this time) is put into focus. For the past few months activity—sunspots and flares—has been increasing, with the most amazing clusters and hedgerows popping up at suprising times. Utilizing a solar telescope we’ll show you an amazing view of the Sun? in hydrogen-alpha light. Any sizable flares or prominences occurring at this time will be easily seen! Distance, ~151.2 million kilometers.

4:00 pm to 9:00 pm = ADVENTURE QUEST [instructions and form at Information Table]

The frantic search game is always an IAD favorite. Gather the points to get the prizes—but should you redeem for small prizes as soon as possible, or get more points for higher level prizes? Will someone get the big prizes before you?

4:30 pm = 20OGS TOURS (session one) [Large Dome]

Patrons (in two fifteen-minute groups) will see the gears and eyepieces and Sky X program for the largest telescope on site, responsible for over forty asteroid discoveries. Patrons will also view a “road map” for the sky. {Limit three people at one time. First signed up, first served.}

4:45 pm to 8:45 pm = VIEWING: Moon [Front Viewing Pad]

During this time our closest celestial companion will be in its waxing crescent phase—illuminated in Gemini?, just west of the rising Beehive Cluster! Personal binoculars recommended. Distance ~395,000 kilometers.

5:30 pm to 6:00 pm = WARNING—COMET? APPROACHING! [Main Floor]

The alert has been sounded! The raw materials of a “dirty snowball” makes one come to life!

6:15 pm to 7:45 pm = SPACE FACES [near Pavilion]

Decorate your face with one of the planets, a comet?, a galaxy or the Sun? or Moon!

7:15 pm to 8:45 pm = MAGNIFICENT MAGNIFICATION [Main Floor]

The Scope-on-a-Rope is in action at this time for visitors to bring small objects—within reason!—to magnify.

8:00 pm to 8:30 pm = TWILIGHT SKY TOUR [Back Viewing Pad]

The Big Dipper, Arcturus and Spica…Sirius, Gemini? and Leo?. The denizens of the mid-spring sky appeal to young and old, and you may learn more about them than you thought you could!

8:15 pm to 9:45 pm = PHYSICAL SCIENCE DEMOS [Main Floor]

A half-dozen stunning demonstrations illustrating a variety of universal science concepts will be indoors for interaction.

8:45 pm to 10:15 pm = VIEWING: MARS? [West Treeline]

The Red Planet is slipping behind the Sun?, not to be seen again until Halloween. Join us for this last programmed Martian viewing.

9:00 pm to 9:10 pm = VISIBLE PASSES: OBJECT B [Back Viewing Pad]

The thing left over six years ago. What is it? We can’t tell you, but at least we can show you! {Predicted magnitude 0.7}.

9:00 pm to 11:00 pm = VIEWING: BEEHIVE CLUSTER [Front Viewing Pad]

This majestic open cluster is of about 1000 Sun?-like and other stars. Many of these stars can be seen from Baton Rouge. Personal binoculars recommended. Distance 577 light-years. Magnitude: 4.0.

9:10 pm to 9:20 pm = VISIBLE PASSES: INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION [Back Viewing Pad]

Human beings have been living and working at this orbiting base since the year 2000! Tonight, we wave hello to some of those brave men and women as we see the ISS soar through the Baton Rouge sky. {Predicted magnitude -2.1}.

9:35 pm to 9:45 pm = VISIBLE PASSES: CHANG ZHENG 2C ROCKET BODY [Back Viewing Pad]

A very reliable launch vehicle for China. There are several in low-Earth? orbit and we’ll see one before it enters the Earth?’s shadow! {Predicted magnitude 1.6}.

10:30 pm to 11:00 pm = VIEWING: Omega Centauri [location to be revealed]

The legendary globular cluster is notoriously elusive from this latitude. It is IAD tradition to attempt a spotting from a savvy vantage point on the grounds, looking through the gaps in the trees. Believe us, it’s worth it! Distance—hold on to your seat—a whopping 18,000 light years. Personal binoculars strongly recommended.

All viewing is weather permitting.

ZIPPITY ZOO FEST 2021 – BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo

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Calling all Party Animals!! 🦒🦓🐏 🐅🐆  Join BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo as they celebrate their 51st birthday at Zippity Zoo Fest 2021 on March 27th and 28th. The weekend will be filled with tons of fun, including live performances, edzoocation station, keeper chats, animal enrichments, photo contest display, Princesses & of course birthday cake for all! This is always one of our favorite events at the Baton Rouge Zoo, the weather is perfect for a day outdoors and the added festivities make for a fun day at the zoo.   ZIPPITY ZOO FEST 2021

ZIPPITY ZOO FEST 2021

Entertainment
Enjoy the talents of community groups from across the area. We may even have some characters stop by throughout the weekend for socially-distanced photo opportunities!

EdZooCation Station
Stop by the EdZooCation Station for fun and learning! Learn about animal facts, animal conservation and pollination. You might also get to meet some of our education department’s animal ambassadors!

Keeper Chats & Animal Enrichments
Hear from our Zoo Keepers, ask questions and learn how we care for our animals daily. At select chats, watch our animals enjoy a special Zoo birthday treat, while you enjoy a piece of free Zoo birthday cake!

Photo Contest Winners Gallery
Enjoy a display of the WINNERS of our photo contest. The photo contest is open to photographers of all ages and experience levels. Winners will be announced at Zippity Zoo Fest, and their printed photos will be on exhibit, gallery-style, throughout the 2-day event.

AAZK Booth
Visit the Baton Rouge Chapter of American Association of Zoo Keeper (AAZK). This year at Zippity, AAZK is raising funds for conservation. Stop by to talk with our Zoo Keepers, learn about the amazing things they are doing for philanthropy projects, continuing education and professional development.

Party Favors
Just like any good birthday party, we’ll have party favor treats for the kiddos to enjoy as the depart our annual birthday extravaganza!

Tickets
Make plans to join the Zoo for a festive, fun-filled family day at the Zoo!   Click HERE to get your tickets in advance.

Disclosure: This is a “sponsored post.” The company that sponsored it compensated BRFF via a cash payment, gift, or giveaway. Opinions expressed herein are that of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of the sponsor. 

Mother Son Dance To Go – Benefiting OLOL Children’s Hospital

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This year has been anything but normal, with many events being canceled or going virtual due to COVID. This year, Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital has reimagined the Mother-Son Dance into an exclusive “To-Go” box – “Mother-Son Dance To Go!” Moms, you won’t want to miss this special opportunity to create lasting memories with your little prince! Get ready for a Mother-Son fun-filled month of activities!! This also makes the perfect Christmas gift as it can be used anytime from home! 

Each day highlights a different mother and son theme. The box includes playful items for each theme, along with daily recipes, an entertaining booklet, patient stories, a playlist, and creative project ideas for the week.  All proceeds from the Mother-Son Dance will benefit Child Life Services at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital.

Mother Son Dance To Go

The $100 standard box includes daily themed activities and creative crafts. A $150 VIP box includes the standard box PLUS a specialty mom and son t-shirt. Daily themes include a treasure hunt, arts and crafts, dance party, and a day just for mom. 

Standard Mother Son Dance To Go Box

The standard mother and son box includes playful items (listed below) for each theme, a dance playlist, creative project ideas, daily recipes, and an entertaining booklet. Each box purchased gives you a chance to win fun items during the week like mommy makeover, family vacation, and more.

The items in the box for each day are as follows:

  • Arts & Crafts Day – DIY puzzle, DIY binoculars, K’Nex sticks, 2 mini Play-Doh
  • Treasure Hunt Day – Compass bracelet, mini treasure chest, ring pop, blank treasure map
  • Activity Day – mini bouncy ball, jump rope, DIY frisbee, buildable race car, sidewalk chalk, STEM activity
  • Ice Cream & Pizza Dance Party Day – plastic ice cream scoop, USB disco ball, glow sticks, bow tie, glow-in-he-dark sunglasses.
  • Just for Mom Day – plastic wine glass, nail file, bath bomb, face sheet mask, hair tie

VIP Mother Son Dance To Go Box

The VIP mother and son box includes playful items for each theme (listed below), a dance playlist, creative project ideas, daily recipes, an entertaining booklet plus a specialty mom and son t-shirt, and a disposable camera to commemorate the fun. Each box purchased gives you a chance to win fun items during the week like mommy makeover, family vacation, and more.

The items in the box for each day are as follows:

  • Arts & Crafts Day – DIY puzzle, DIY binoculars, K’Nex sticks, 2 mini Play-Doh
  • Treasure Hunt Day – Compass bracelet, mini treasure chest, ring pop, blank treasure map
  • Activity Day – mini bouncy ball, jump rope, DIY frisbee, buildable race car, sidewalk chalk, STEM activity
  • Ice Cream & Pizza Dance Party Day – plastic ice cream scoop, USB disco ball, glow sticks, bow tie, glow-in-he-dark sunglasses.
  • Just for Mom Day – plastic wine glass, nail file, bath bomb, face sheet mask, hair tie

Click here to purchase your box and view the items plus additional options!

Mother Son Dance To Go

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Mother-Son Dance “To-Go”?
The Mother-Son Dance “To-Go” is an opportunity for moms and their sons to spend a fun-filled, memorable week safely from home.
 
Is there an age limit to participate?
Activities provided in the box are for ages up to 13 years old.
 
What are the box prices?
The standard box is $100. The VIP box is $150. The boxes are filled with fun items for each theme, but the VIP box is “extra” special.
 
What is the DOOR PRIZE “to-go”?
Each box purchase is an automatic entry to win these exciting items. There are many fun door prizes that you and your son could win. Like our Facebook event page to learn more!
 
Can I get more chances to win the door prizes “to-go”?
Yes, each time you share photos of you and your son using the hashtag #mothersondancetogo you will receive an additional entry.
 
Are boxes and sponsorships limited?
Yes, boxes and sponsorships are limited and will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
 
Can I exchange items or return my box?
All “to-go” items and boxes are a final sale and cannot be returned or exchanged.

Mother Son Dance To Go VIP Box

Mother Son Dance To Go VIP Box Giveaway

We have teamed up with OLOL Children’s to host a giveaway for 4 VIP To GoBoxes!! Simply enter via our Rafflecopter Giveaway widget below with more entry options on our Facebook and Instagram pages!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Brec’s Baton Rouge Zoolights – Making Spirits Bright

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Join BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo for Zoolights (Friday, November 27 – Wednesday, December 30)! Baton Rouge Zoolights festive mile-long trail through the Zoo in the evening boasts more than 50 illuminated sculptures of animals and traditional holiday displays for the whole family to enjoy. 

Baton Rouge Zoolights

This year, the Zoo is partnering with The Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank to bring more impact & excitement to Zoolights. Every guest presenting non-perishable food items (minimum of one per person) during the hours of Zoolights will receive a 50% discount from the regular admission price. Regular admission prices are $5 for adults/teens, $4 for senior citizens, $3 for children (2-12 years old), and $3 for Friends of the Zoo members. These amounts will be cut in half when a non-perishable food item is presented at the time of entry & all food donations will go directly to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. Learn more at www.brzoo.org. 

Zoo Lights


 

Baton Rouge Zoolights

Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

Admissions gates open 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Zoo grounds close at 9 p.m.

Admission:

Adults/Teens: $5
Seniors: $4
Ages 2-12: $3
Friends of the Zoo Members: $3 per person​

Prices will be reduced by 50% when guests present non-perishable food items to be donated to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. 

ZOOLIGHTS IS:

  • A mile-long trail through the Zoo
  • More than 50 illuminated display sculptures of animals and traditional holiday displays
  • A festive family activity, adding to the quality of life for residents throughout the region.

Baton Rouge Zoolights displays will include the following:

BREC Baton Rouge Zoolights

LIGHTED DISPLAYS WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

ILLUMINATED SCULPTURES: Visitors will find illuminated sculptures representing animals and traditional symbols of the holidays.

GIANT SPECTACULARS: Larger-than-life displays capture the imagination of children of all ages. These displays may include: Flamingos, Giraffes, Lions, Tigers, Gorillas, Rhinos, Elephants, Alligators, Giant Santa, Giant Snowmen, Holiday Trains, Santa in Sleigh pulled by Giant Reindeer and Toy Soldiers. Displays can be up to 30 ft. tall!

ANIMATED SPECTACULARS: Animated displays add additional entertainment value to our event. The use of high-wattage, computer-controlled displays will provide exciting animation to displays.

VISITOR AMENITIES: Safari Photo Booth Seasonal Specials from the Flamingo Cafe Safari Post Gift Shop

50 Need-to-Know Ingredient Substitutions

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We’ve all been there! You’ve just returned from the grocery store and you’re getting ready to make dinner, bake or whip something up on a whim, and you’re missing a crucial ingredient. The last thing you want to do is go back to the grocery store for one item. Especially with the holidays upon us! No worries! We have 50 Need-to-Know Ingredient Substitutions for you to print out. Take into account that the substitution could change the taste, texture, and or consistency, but will do when you’re in a pinch.

Healthy Recipe Substitutions

Unsweetened applesauce for oil, butter, or sugar

Using applesauce in place of sugar can give the necessary sweetness without the calories. You can sub sugar for apple sauce in a 1:1 ratio, but for every cup of applesauce, you use, reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe by 1/4 cup.

Mashed bananas for fats

The creamy, thickening-power of ripe mashed banana is perfect for replacing fat in baking recipes. One cup of mashed banana works perfectly in place of 1 cup of butter or oil! Here is a great recipe for quick and easy banana bread…

[yumprint-recipe id=’32’]
Grated steamed cauliflower for rice

Cut both calories and carbs with this simple switch. The texture is virtually the same, as is the taste.

Spaghetti squash for pasta

Roast or bake your squash and scrape with a fork for a healthy low-carb spaghetti squash substitute for pasta. One squash will make between two and three servings.

Two egg whites for one whole egg

Trade out the yolk for a second white to cut cholesterol and double the protein.

Greek yogurt for sour cream or mayo

Nonfat Greek yogurt has far fewer calories and fat than mayonnaise or sour cream, but its consistency is quite similar. Next time a recipe calls for either of those fattening ingredients, try using the yogurt instead.

Need-to-Know Ingredient Substitutions

PRINTABLE—> 50 Need-to-Know Ingredient Substitutions Guide PDF

50 Need-to-Know Ingredient Substitutions 

Ingredient Amount Substitution
Allspice 1 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon cloves
Baking mix 1 cup 1 cup pancake mix OR 1 cup Easy Biscuit Mixture
Baking powder 1 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon baking soda plus 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar OR 1/4 teaspoon baking soda plus 1/2 cup buttermilk (decrease liquid in recipe by 1/2 cup)
Baking soda 1 teaspoon 2 teaspoon double-acting baking powder + replace acidic liquid ingredient in recipe with non-acidic liquid
Balsamic Vinegar 1 cup Equal amount of sherry or cider vinegar
Broth: beef or chicken 1 cup 1 bouillon cube dissolved in 1 cup boiling water OR1 teaspoon powdered broth base dissolved in 1 cup boiling water
Brown sugar 1 cup, packed 1 cup white sugar plus 1/4 cup molasses and decrease the liquid in recipe by 1/4 cup OR 1 cup white sugar OR 1 1/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
Butter 1 cup 7/8 to 1 cup hydrogenated fat (shortening) and 1/2 teaspoon salt OR7/8 cup lard plus 1/2 teaspoon salt OR

1 cup margarine OR 7/8 cup oil plus 1/2 teaspoon salt OR 7/8 cup oil OR To reduce fat and calories – applesauce or prune puree for half of the butter in the recipe OR ¾ coconut oil in place of a cup of butter.
Buttermilk 1 cup 1 cup yogurt OR 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar plus enough milk to make 1 cup
Cajun Spice 1 tablespoon 1/2 teaspoon white pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Chocolate(semisweet) 1 ounce 1 (1-ounce) square of unsweetened chocolate plus 4 teaspoons sugar OR 1 ounce semisweet chocolate chips plus 1 teaspoon shortening
Chocolate (unsweetened) 1 ounce 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa plus 1 tablespoon shortening or vegetable oil
Cocoa 1/4 cup 1 (1-ounce) square unsweetened chocolate
Corn syrup 1 cup 1 1/4 cup white sugar plus 1/3 cup water OR 1 cup honey OR 1 cup light treacle syrup
Cottage cheese 1 cup 1 cup farmer’s cheese OR 1 cup ricotta cheese
Cracker crumbs 1 cup 1 cup bread crumbs OR 1 cup matzo meal OR 1 cup ground oats
Cream (half and half) 1 cup 7/8 cup milk plus 1 tablespoon butter
Cream (heavy) 1 cup 1 cup evaporated milk OR 3/4 cup milk plus 1/3 cup butter
Cream (light) 1 cup 1 cup evaporated milk OR 3/4 cup milk plus 3 tablespoons butter
Cream (whipped) 1 cup 1 cup frozen whipped topping, thawed
Cream cheese 1 cup 1 cup pureed cottage cheese OR 1 cup plain yogurt, strained overnight in a cheesecloth
Crème fraiche 1 cup Combine 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt. Let stand for 6 hours at room temperature
Egg 1 whole (3 tablespoons or 1.7 oz) 2 1/2 tablespoons of powdered egg substitute plus 2 1/2 tablespoons water OR 1/4 cup liquid egg substitute OR 1/4 cup silken tofu pureed OR 3 tablespoons mayonnaise OR half a banana mashed with 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Evaporated milk 1 cup 1 cup light cream
Fats for baking 1 cup 1 cup applesauce OR 1 cup fruit puree
Flour–Bread 1 cup 1 cup all-purpose flour plus 1 teaspoon wheat gluten (available at health food stores & some supermarkets)
Flour–Cake 1 cup 1 cup all-purpose flour minus 2 tablespoons
Flour–Self-Rising 1 cup 7/8 cup all-purpose flour plus 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Garlic 1 clove 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder OR 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic OR 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt–reduce salt in recipe
Green onion 1/2 cup , chopped 1/2 cup chopped onion, OR 1/2 cup chopped leek OR 1/2 cup chopped shallots
Herbs–fresh 1 tablespoon chopped fresh 1 teaspoon (chopped or whole leaf) dried herbs
Honey 1 cup 1 1/4 cup white sugar plus 1/3 cup water OR 1 cup corn syrup OR 1 cup light treacle syrup
Ketchup 1 cup 1 cup tomato sauce plus 1 teaspoon vinegar plus 1 tablespoon sugar
Lard 1 cup 1 cup shortening OR 7/8 cup vegetable oil OR 1 cup butter
Lemon grass 2 fresh stalks 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Lemon juice 1 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon vinegar OR 1 teaspoon white wine OR 1 teaspoon lime juice
Lemon zest 1 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract OR 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Lime juice 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vinegar OR 1 teaspoon white wine OR 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Margarine 1 cup 1 cup shortening plus 1/2 teaspoon salt OR 1 cup butter OR 7/8 cup vegetable oil plus 1/2 teaspoon salt OR 7/8 cup lard plus 1/2 teaspoon salt
Mayonnaise 1 cup 1 cup sour cream OR 1 cup plain yogurt
Milk–whole 1 cup 1 cup soy milk OR 1 cup rice milk OR 1 cup water or juice OR 1/4 cup dry milk powder plus 1 cup water OR 2/3 cup evaporated milk plus 1/3 cup water
Onion 1 cup, chopped 1 cup chopped green onions OR 1 cup chopped shallots OR 1 cup chopped leeks OR 1/4 cup dried minced onion OR 1/4 cup onion powder
Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup, grated 1/2 cup grated Asiago cheese OR 1/2 cup grated Romano cheese
Raisin 1 cup 1 cup dried currants OR 1 cup dried cranberries OR 1 cup chopped pitted prunes
Ricotta 1 cup 1 cup dry cottage cheese OR 1 cup silken tofu
Semisweet chocolate chips 1 cup 1 cup chocolate candies OR 1 cup peanut butter or other flavored chips OR 1 cup chopped nuts OR 1 cup chopped dried fruit
Shallots, chopped 1/2 cup 1/2 cup chopped onion, OR 1/2 cup chopped leek OR 1/2 cup chopped green onion
Shortening 1 cup 1 cup butter OR 1 cup margarine minus 1/2 teaspoon salt from recipe
Sour cream 1 cup 1 cup plain yogurt OR 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar plus enough cream to make 1 cup OR 3/4 cup buttermilk mixed with 1/3 cup butter
Soy sauce 1/2 cup 4 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Stock–beef or chicken 1 cup 1 cube beef or chicken bouillon dissolved in 1 cup water
Sweetened condensed milk 1 (14-ounce) can 3/4 cup white sugar mixed with 1/2 cup water and 1 1/8 cups dry powdered milk: Bring to a boil and cook, stirring frequently, until thickened, about 20 minutes
Vegetable oil–for baking 1 cup 1 cup applesauce OR 1 cup fruit puree
Vegetable oil–for frying 1 cup 1 cup lard OR 1 cup vegetable shortening
Vinegar 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon lemon or lime juice OR 2 teaspoons white wine
White sugar 1 cup 1 cup brown sugar OR 1 1/4 cups confectioners’ sugar OR 3/4 cup honey OR 3/4 cup corn syrup
Wine 1 cup 1 cup chicken or beef broth OR 1 cup fruit juice mixed with 2 teaspoons vinegar OR 1 cup water
Yogurt 1 cup 1 cup sour cream OR 1 cup buttermilk OR 1 cup sour milk

We hope these 50 Need-to-Know Ingredient Substitutions help when you’re in a pinch and save you some time and even money! 

Sources: http://greatist.com

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch: Know Before You Go

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The weather last weekend was too glorious to stay indoors, so my family and I made the drive over to Barn Hill Preserve to check out their annual Pumpkin Patch. We had a great time and definitely plan to make it a fall tradition.

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch

The pumpkin patch is open from 9:00-4:00 every Saturday and Sunday in October and November. Entry is $15 per person, but there was so much to do that I felt the price was justified. The ticket price includes 1 small pumpkin picked from the pumpkin patch. There were animal encounters, a corn pit, pumpkin painting, trick-or-treating, hayrides, corn maze, archery, games, kangaroo walkabout, and lots of other activities. 

Add-on encounters with a two-toed sloth, spectacled owl, and anteater are not included in door price and are $10 per activity, per person

Barn Hill Preserve

We arrived around 10:30 am and it only took us about 15 minutes to park and pay. There was a bit of a line but it moved quite efficiently. Upon getting to the front, I was pleasantly surprised to find they take both cash and card options, as I was unable to get a firm answer to this question on their website or social media before arriving. 

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch

We started the day by practicing our archery, then enjoyed zoo-like enclosures featuring a lynx and a pair of very friendly otters. After that, we found our way to the Kangaroo Walkabout, which we unanimously agreed was the highlight of our trip. Kids and adults alike delighted in getting up close with baby goats, kangaroos, and even a giraffe!

We even got to feed the baby goats, which was such a sweet experience.

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch

We then walked down a rocky path to the actual pumpkin patch, which had its ups and downs. From afar, it was beautiful. Between the stunningly perfect weather providing a cloudless blue sky, to the lovely bright greens and oranges of the pumpkins, it made for gorgeous photos. Up close, it was a bit less perfect; we were frequently side-stepping gooey smashed pumpkins and large ant piles. That said, everyone found their perfect pumpkin. There were picnic tables set up where we could have painted them, the thought of even semi-wet paint entering my vehicle was enough for me to veto that activity.

Eating at Barn Hill Preserve

On-site food options limited, but the preserve does permit outside food and drink. We weren’t sure what to expect, so we brought a picnic lunch. It was perfect and there were multiple options for seating. If picnics aren’t your jam, they offer hamburgers and cheeseburgers for $5 each. There was also a mobile bar on site serving coffee, tea, soft drinks, and mocktails, as well as a selection of sweet treats.

Barn Hill Preserve

There were a few things I didn’t love, like the only bathrooms being two portapotties at the entrance. I don’t know about your kids but mine are horrified by the things, which caused us to make an early departure. There wasn’t any direction as to where to find things, like the animal show we got lucky and stumbled upon or the corn maze we never did locate. A map or signage would have been hugely helpful. Lastly, though the crowds weren’t bad, people tended to bunch up around activities and it was difficult to social distance at times. More and more people arrived as the day went by, so my suggestion would be to arrive first thing on a Sunday morning to avoid the bigger crowd.

Barn Hill Preserve

Overall, my family had a great time at Barn Hill Preserve’s pumpkin patch! Our highlights were the Kangaroo Walkabout, the otters, and all the great photo ops. I’m looking forward to going again next year and having an even better time now that we have this experience under our belts! If you’ve been before, what advice would you give families who are planning to go for the first time? Join the conversation on our Facebook page. 

Baton Rouge Family Fun

Christy is a Northshore native who in 2018, was dragged kicking and screaming to Denham Springs. After a short period of adjustment, she’s learned to love her new home and enjoys exploring all the Baton Rouge area has to offer. A working mother of two, she balances her free time between hanging out with her family, writing, and baking for her home business, The Little Things Cakes.

 

Visit our Family Friendly Baton Rouge Fall Events Guide for a full list of fall fun in Baton Rouge and beyond. 

Here’s How Louisiana’s Phase 1 Reopening Affects Your Family

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The reopening of Louisiana following the shut down to fight Covid-19 has a lot of parents asking questions about summer camp, parks, libraries, and more. Louisiana will move to Phase One under the White House COVID-19 guidance this Friday, May 15, which removes the Stay at Home order for Louisianans and allows additional businesses to open under strict occupancy, protection, and social distancing guidelines. People who are at a higher risk of becoming ill from COVID-19 are encouraged to continue to Stay at Home. Below we’re sharing how Louisiana’s phase 1 reopening affects your family.

Gov. Edwards outlined the first phase of the Roadmap to a Resilient Louisiana, which adopts every major recommendation of the White House plan in Phase One. Please remember that this plan is subject to change.

Louisiana's Phase 1 Reopening

How long will Phase 1 last?

Edwards said he will issue the proclamation lifting the stay-home order on Thursday to go into effect Friday. The governor said phase one will likely be in effect for 21 days, into June 5, if the state does not see increases in cases.

Louisiana’s Phase 1 Reopening

  • Churches will be able to conduct indoor service at 25% of their State Fire Marshal capacity, with continued allowance for additional outdoor seating with SFM guidance on social distancing. In line with this, indoor funerals and weddings may resume indoor at 25% capacity of the building and may continue outdoor services with no crowd size limitation as long as social distancing is practiced.

 

  • Restaurants, coffee shops, and cafes will be able to be open to the public for indoor table service at 25% of their State Fire Marshal capacity, with continued allowance for additional outdoor seating with SFM guidance on social distancing.

 

  • Bars that hold an LDH food service certificate will be able to do or take-out and delivery of food and alcohol and dine-in seating in line with State Fire Marshal guidance on social distancing for restaurants, with no more than 25% of their State Fire Marshal capacity. No on-site consumption will be allowed if not seated at SFM approved seating.

 

  • Gyms and fitness centers will be allowed to be open to the public at 25% of their capacity. The State Fire Marshal and LDH will be issuing guidance on social distancing and sanitization.

 

  • Stores and shopping malls will be allowed to be open to the public at 25% of their State Fire Marshal capacity. 

 

  • Movie theaters may be open to the public at 25% of their State Fire Marshal capacity, with new guidance from SFM and LDH on social distancing and sanitation.

 

  • Museums, zoos, and aquariums may be open to the public at 25% of their capacity, with no organized tours and no tactile exhibits. Children’s museums remain closed.

 

  • Barbers, hair salons, and nail salons may be open to the public at 25% of their capacity with SFM guidance on social distancing.

The following businesses remain closed: massage establishments and spas, tattoo parlors, carnivals, amusement parks, water parks, trampoline parks, arcades, fairs, bars and breweries without LDH food permits, pool halls, contact sports, children’s play centers, playgrounds, theme parks, adult entertainment venues, and other similar businesses.

 

East Baton Rouge Parish Library

The East Baton Rouge Parish Library will begin a phased re-opening process starting Monday, May 18. “Libraries serve a broad range of needs in our community. Although we are providing service through digital avenues, we are eager to reopen our libraries and provide a broader range of services”, said Library Director Spencer Watts.

While all 14 Library locations will remain closed to the public during Phase 1, the following services will be available:

Beginning Monday, May 18

  • Telephone assistance will be expanded to all 14 locations from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday; from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 2-6 p.m. on Sunday.
  • Patrons may call the Library location of their choice to reserve new books and A/V materials for pickup, get assistance accessing Library databases and online resources in the Digital Library, consult staff for reader’s advisory service, discuss their accounts, obtain a computer-use-only card if needed, and more.
  • Wi-Fi will remain available outside all 14 locations from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. daily.
  • The Digital Library is always open 24/7 at www.ebrpl.com.

Beginning Wednesday, May 20

  • The “Call Ahead / Pick Up Service” will resume. Patrons may reserve new materials online or over the phone, and check them out via the Drive Through/Pick Up windows at the Main Library at Goodwood, 7711 Goodwood Blvd., or the Fairwood Branch, 12910 Old Hammond Hwy., or via lobby pickup service at other locations from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday; from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 2-6 p.m. on Sunday.
  • Due dates for all currently checked out Library materials will be extended until Tuesday, June 30. We will begin accepting the return of Library materials at all locations through each location’s exterior return. For the safety of our patrons and staff, returned materials will be quarantined and/or disinfected according to established guidelines before being placed back into circulation

BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo

BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo has been working diligently to prepare plans for re-opening the facility that properly follow Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) guidelines. With the modifications listed below, the Zoo plans to re-open for Friends of the Zoo Members only May 18 through May 20 & re-open to the public on May 21. The Zoo will follow normal business hours.

Modifications guests will see in place as additional safeguards include:

  • Safari Playground, Cypress Bayou Railroad, L’aquarium de Louisiane, Otter Cabin & Kids’ Zoo Contact Yard may be temporarily closed.
  • Keeper chats & amphitheater shows will be temporarily suspended.
  • Flamingo Café & Cool Critters Café will be open with a limited menu & properly adjusted outdoor seating.
  • The number of guests allowed in the Zoo will be limited to eliminate crowding.
  • Constant disinfection of all touchable surfaces will occur in accordance with CDC & LA Department of Health guidance.
  • Hand sanitation stations provided at multiple locations throughout the Zoo.
  • A one-way path for all visitors will be enacted to avoid passing of guests.
  • Installation of protective panels where face-to-face interactions most frequently take place.
  • Implementation of barriers near exhibit viewing areas with glass to limit touching.
  • Creation of public markers to serve as social distancing reminders.
  • Zoo staff will wear face shields.
  • Guests are encouraged to wear mask face coverings to protect our staff & animals.
  • Protocols will be adjusted as necessary to keep staff, guests and animals safe.

Learn more here!

 

BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

BREC is entering it’s phase 1 plans with partial reopening. BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center will start adjusted hours Tuesday, May  19th.  While the building will be closed, the trails will be open with free admission Tuesday – Saturday, 9 am-noon. 

BREC Dog Parks

The dog parks at Greenwood, Zachary and Forest Community Parks will reopen with some revised guidelines for your safety on Monday, May 18th! Some guidelines to be aware of:

  • Use a glove, waste bag, or grocery bag to open and close the gates and properly dispose of them. Wash/Sanitize your hands. Face masks are recommended for humans.
  • Large dog areas are limited to 25 persons inside the dog park fence.
  • Small dog areas are limited to 10 persons inside the dog park fence.
  • Water fountains will not be available. Bring your own water bottles.
  • Site picnic tables and benches will not be available.

LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens will be open as of May 18.

Burden Museum & Gardens Reopening Guidelines

  • Hours of operation: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
  • Gates will open at 8:00 AM and close at 5:30 PM.
  • Visitors to the Rural Life Museum will follow Rural Life Museum Guidelines.
  • Visitors to the Botanic Gardens will follow the Botanic Gardens Guidelines.
  • Staff that will be greeting or managing visitors are required to wear a mask.
  • COVID-19 signage as required by LSU A&M and the LSU AgCenter is posted at the respective entrances to each facility.
  • Tour groups and rentals remain postponed until further notice.

LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens Guidelines:

  • Offices, conference center and Orangerie are closed to the general public.
  • The Information Center and restrooms are also closed at this time. 
  • The Children’s Garden (Pollinator Garden) is closed and roped off with caution tape and signage.
  • Grounds will be monitored to ensure proper social distancing.

Louisiana guidelines for child care and summer camps:

The Department of Education and the Department of Health have outlined the next steps for the safe operation of child care centers, as well as summer camps, summer school, and summer extracurricular activities.

Child care centers and entities offering summer programs for K-12 students must adhere to certain protective measures set by the Office of Public Health (OPH), including:

  • Social distancing, achieved by maintaining small, static groups that minimally interact with other groups
  • Assessing and monitoring students for symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, cough, shortness of breath, and/or sore throat
  • Practicing frequent environmental cleaning and hand-washing.

In Phase 1, groups should be limited to 10 people including adults. For child care centers and entities offering summer school, camps, or extracurricular activities, the occupancy rates currently approved for the facility apply. Adjusted occupancy rates are not applicable, as these entities must adhere to strict social distancing and other health and safety measures specific to child care and summer school or camp settings.

Gov. Edwards encourages the public and business owners to proceed cautiously and to take the necessary steps to protect themselves, including wearing a protective face covering like a cloth mask when they are in public, keeping social distance from people outside of their households, and practicing good hygiene.

Click here to read the new order…

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‘Front Porch Project’ – Making Memories & Supporting Local Businesses

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Before the COVID-19 pandemic suddenly turned life as we know it upside down, I was just starting my “busy season” for spring portraits. In the first two weeks of March, I photographed over 600 elementary school students, preschoolers, toddlers, and babies. My calendar was jammed packed with senior sessions, more school photographs, special events, a birthday celebration in New Orleans, a mini-vacation to Austin, and my children’s field trips. I can remember looking at my calendar thinking “WOW! How did this many things find their way on my calendar?” 

Then, just like that, everything came to a screeching halt. 

All my plans for a busy, full, productive spring were canceled and I found myself safe at home every day, all day, with my two kids and my husband. 

We make the most of our time together. We’ve enjoyed having picnic lunches outside, going on walks around the subdivision, taking coffee breaks, and my youngest has even learned to ride his bike without training wheels! It wasn’t what I  planned, but we enjoy the sudden slow pace and have tried focusing on the good parts of our lives and not the bad. 

Don’t get me wrong I have my freak out moments. I’ve battled anxiety and feared my business will never recover. I worry that I am ruining my children because I am suddenly now a homeschool mom, and I am not very good at it.

Despite all the fear, this is a special time, and I decided that every day I was going to take out the camera…. the good camera not the one on my phone…and no matter what is going on, I will snap three pictures each day of my family.

Front Porch Project

My little three pictures a day personal project is an unexpected joy for me. I’ve tried new things with my camera and rediscovered my love for using natural light. I’ve enjoyed the creative process and knowing my children will have photographs to look back and reminisce on the good that happened in the midst of a global pandemic.

I share the three photographs on my personal Facebook page daily. One day my friend Kelly commented, “Can you come shoot my kids’ pictures…. from the safe distance of 6,12 or 20 feet away!”  

I started off photographing my own kids but Kelly’s comments got me thinking…another friend had sent me a viral post from Tausha Ann Photography in Tennessee. This photographer had simply walked through her neighborhood and gotten some pretty amazing photographs of her neighbors just sitting on their front porches. 

Going to sleep that night it hit me…why can’t I do what that photographer did? 

I have these photographs that I LOVE of my kids! I can give Kelly a way to remember this time too. I can just drive by, hop out the car and take a few shots of her kiddos. While I am at it, I don’t need to do this just for Kelly, I can see if any other families want some photographs too! Front Porch Project

Drive By Shooting

And well, me being me I decided right then and there that I WAS going to do it and that the perfect name for it would be “Drive-By Shooting.” 

My husband made a cute little “Drive-by Shooting” graphic for me and I couldn’t wait to post it to Instagram and Facebook and invite the community to sign up. Before I posted the invitation on social media a long time client of mine texted me and told me about the Front Porch Project in Baton Rouge. The project is doing free front porch sessions and in exchange, requests participants to purchase a gift card from a local small business. 

Front Porch Project

Front Porch Project

The idea of asking the participants to support a small business just fueled an even greater desire within me to get my own project started.

My “Drive By Shooting” project was definitely a team effort of these different friends and clients sharing their ideas and desires with me. I wish I could say it was a creative genius call on my part, but as most things in my life, it wasn’t. It was a team effort and I was finally ready to invite the community to participate. 

I posted the invitation to sign up on social media expecting a handful of faithful clients to sign up. I was completely OVERWHELMED with the response!! There were so many signing up that I  had to stop booking dates within a few hours of posting my invitation. 

Complete strangers signed up! If you have never pulled up to someone’s house who you have never met and they are pointing nerf guns at you and holding a sign saying “stay 6 feet away or we will shoot,” I would strongly recommend it! It has been so much FUN!!! I am pretty sure I have spent most of my time laughing. 

Once, I pulled up to someone’s home and started laughing so hard I didn’t think I could stand up much less properly operate my camera. 

Front Porch Project

Everyone who I’ve photographed has been excited and also very thankful. I’ve lost count of how many have told me “thank you for giving us something fun to do today.” Some families have gone to outrageous lengths to capture a funny moment, and some have put on their Sunday best and posed for a great, classic family portrait.

This project is supporting local businesses, but the heart of it is giving families in our area memories to look back on. I feel very blessed to have met so many people and have given them a reason to smile. I’ve even had people tell me how much they enjoy just scrolling through the photographs online and are looking forward to seeing more. 

Front Porch Project

The arts have a way of soothing us in times of trouble. This is a very scary time we are living in, but bringing a little light when things seem so dark has been deeply rewarding for me. 

My Sister and I Photography, LLCKatie has been involved in the photography industry for almost 20 years, beginning as a teenager working as an assistant at a local studio. She holds a B.A. in business management from Southeastern. She started My Sister and I Photography, LLC. nine years ago and has grown her studio to specialize in family, highschool senior and school/daycare photography. She is bubbly, energetic and LOVES to laugh. She is married to her high school sweetheart and together they have two children and reside in Walker. Her husband is an assistant pastor at a church in Central and is also a talented graphic designer. Together they have a weekly podcast called “Just Be Creative” that explores what life and work looks like in the creative field. Katie loves traveling, checking out live music, spending quality time with her family and friends, thinking she can dance, and ordering food in restaurants. Find me online via Facebook and Instagram!

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Chalk Your Walk Baton Rouge – Spread joy and kindness!

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 Social distancing hasn’t stopped the community from coming together to beautify the outdoors — at least at a distance from each other. Last week we kicked off the Louisiana Boot Trail and we loved seeing your beautiful Louisiana Boots on display in neighborhoods around the Baton Rouge area! We also had many of you tag us in your Chalk Walk photos and we fell in love with the idea to #ChalkYourWalk! The perfect way to spread more joy and kindness! Many of us are looking for something to do that’s safe and gets us out of the house during this time of pandemic restrictions. Chalk Your Walk Baton Rouge is pretty simple. Go outside with some chalk and write an uplifting message or drawing on your driveway, fence or sidewalks. We’ve partnered with the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge to encourage families to get out and #ChalkYourWalkBR! 

Chalk Your Walk Baton Rouge

Haylie Smith, a Baton Rouge mom of three sent us this great idea for a fabulous chalk project using tape to share with you all! and her family was not the only ones with this fabulous idea! She 

Chalk Your Walk Baton Rouge

I’m a mom of 3 trying to find things to do around the house just like everyone else during this self-quarantine. I asked my husband to put tape around the fence so the kids could color it in since he’s the creative one. He took it to another level by adding our last name since this is week has brought us closer together. All you need it tape and side walk chalk for this time consuming art project. Loclon, Ally & Annie Jane are proud of their work. – Haylie Nola Smith

Haylie’s family was one of many that enjoyed some family time making joy-filled masterpieces with chalk and tape this weekend! Carly Peterson’s family had the same idea and decorated their driveway along with encouraging notes on the sidewalk. If this doesnt put a smile on your face, we don’t know what will! 

Chalk Your Walk Baton Rouge

Chalk Your Walk Baton Rouge

Chalk Your Walk Baton Rouge

We invite you and your family to draw inspiring art and/or write encouraging messages on a nearby sidewalk or your driveway. Or, put a surprise message or drawing on the sidewalk of a neighbor or friend . Then take a walk, go for a bike ride, or even take a drive to check out the art around your neighborhood.

Take a pic of the art and post it in our event on Facebook, or send it to us. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #ChalkYourWalkBR and tag us @batonrougefamilyfun on Instagram! We will give Baton Rouge Family Fun shirts and Tote Bags to a few lucky winners each week.

Ready, get set, chalk away!

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Social Distancing Day in the Life – With the Whole Family Home

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When I told my son that he wouldn’t be going back to school for a while, he asked me if it was Christmas. 

First, let me show my respect for this pandemic. It’s scary. One of the most terrifying things that have occurred in my lifetime. I have so much respect for the doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and others on the frontline of this.

For so long, we’ve stayed busy or been on different schedules. My husband, Corlin, works late most nights, Jacob, the baby, sleeps early, and Jack, the oldest, gets tired around 7pm. The weekends are full of sports, yard work, and visiting family. We rarely spend long periods of time together. But this virus is forcing my family to spend time with each other. This is going to be a great opportunity to reconnect and truly enjoy each other without rushing to the next commitment.

Social Distancing Day in the Life

Social Distancing Day in the Life

Most things will stay the same but everyday will have a highlight. Usually, it’s just the boys and me for breakfast so now daddy will finally understand why I have to mop after breakfast. Then we’ll have our nature hunts, when we walk around outside looking for insects, interesting leaves, and looking for birds in the sky. We keep a nature journal so we can keep records and small specimens.

Social Distancing Day in the Life

When we come in, while lunch is being prepared, we usually read a book. Then afterwards, Jack “writes” a letter to the main character. Lunch for my toddler is pretty repetitive. Then we’ll rest or play quietly for a while, followed by racing or tag. 

After dinner, we can have a family dance party or board games followed by a movie on Disney+. Tomorrow the focus will be on his favorite dinosaur toy’s birthday so we have to paint clothes on him, make a birthday card, and make a shoebox cake for the little Dino. On Sunday, we’re going to discuss clouds, make our own, and read books on clouds. Monday, the focus is soccer. 

I was blessed with a fantastic family and it’s time we started embracing and appreciating our time with each other.

Baton Rouge Moms Ambassador – Melanie McHenry-LeBlanc

Social Distancing Day in the LifeI’m Melanie, a transplant from New Orleans, Alexandria, VA, and Madison, MS. I have 2 littles: Jack 👦🏾 (3) and Jacob 👶🏾 (9months). I’m married to Corlin, my complete opposite. I used to teach biology at Delgado Community College (doctorate-Jackson state university ‘08) with some of my best friends. I haven’t worked outside the home 🏡 since Jacob was born. Michelle Obama said, “you can do it all, just not all at once.” I live for exploring and having fun. If it’s a kid-friendly event/place, I’m there. I’m a kid at heart.

 

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