Macaroni Kid
NW Tucson
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Mother's Day Giveaway Blitz!


Mother's Day may only be one day a year, but NW Tucson Macaroni Kid feels that Moms should be honored a lot more than that! So, for the entire month of May, we have partnered with some wonderful sponsors who have contributed items to our Mother's Day Giveaway Blitz!

You can enter one giveaway, or all of them! The only requirement is that you are subscribed to NW Tucson Macaroni Kid, which you can do here. Please be sure to read the rules carefully, because sometimes there are ...

Win a Pair of Earrings from Premiere Jewelry!


A Mother's Day Blitz Giveaway!

When we think about Premier Designs High Fashion Jewelry, visions of home jewelry parties and women having fun, socializing and trying on jewelry is something that might come to mind.  The Independent Distributors-Jewelers that provide home shows for Premier is in fact part of the "keeping it personal" approach that founder Andy Horner, and his late wife Joan, is striving for as part of the business' biblically-based principles to put "people before profits, and service before selling."  Premier is a "well-managed, profitable company committed to conducting business with love and ...

Win a FREE Gluten-Free Meal for 2!


Mother's Day Giveaway Blitz!

Enter to Win a FREE
Breakfast or Lunch for Two

(Up to $30, Gratuity not included)
  1. In the comments section below: Tell us something that looks especially yummy from the Gourmet Girls Go Gluten-Free Menu (besides everything!)
  2. You must be subscribed to NW Tucson Macaroni Kid. If you're not, just click here to subscribe. It's absolutely FREE!
  3. One winner will be randomly selected by random.org.
  4. Deadline: Sunday, May 20 at Midnight. The winner will be selected and notified by e-mail on Monday, May 21. You will have ...

Win A Gift Certificate from Alchemista!


A Mother's Day Blitz Giveaway!

Alchemista Aromatherapy Sanctuary & Spa is the creative fusion of two women - friends and entrepreneurs, Jennica Brownell-Klemann LMT, and Sonia Rodriguez, Aromatherapist and product manufacturer. The product of this partnership  is a full service aromatherapy shop, and a spa that revolves around the specific needs of each individual client. 

Alchemista Sanctuary & Spa is based on the therapeutic value of essential oil, providing aromatherapy for the body, mind and soul. From their own handmade aromatherapy products made with all-natural ingredients to comprehensive, innovative massage therapy, they offer something for everyone. 

The quaint ...

Teacher Appreciation Week & Mother's Day Giveaway


From Old Navy Foothills Mall



Enter to Win a $20 Old Navy Gift Card
(Good at All Old Navy Stores,
Gap & Banana Republic)

  1. In the comments section below: Tell us what you would buy with your Old Navy gift card.
  2. You must be subscribed to NW Tucson Macaroni Kid. If you're not, just click here to subscribe. It's absolutely FREE!
  3. For an EXTRA entry, post the following statement as your Facebook status, then come back here and comment that you did it: "I just entered to win a $20 Old Navy gift card ...

2012 Summer Fun Guide IS HERE!


Spring has barely sprung, but the Summer Fun Guide is here to help you find the perfect activities to help keep your kids stimulated and entertained this summer!
You can view the entire guide here, or click on a business name below to go directly to that listing.

If you know of a business/school that will be running summer camps or will be providing fun activities to keep kids busy during the summer months - it's not too late to promote your summer program. Please contact Susie at suzanneb ...


This Week's Picks:


May 19th through May 20th

Saturday, May 19 - Mad Science! Imaginative Learning for Kids! (Bookmans Ina)

Mad Science Special Events are spectacular science-themed shows designed to amaze and entertain young audiences of any size. Children can conjure foggy dry ice storms, float on a Mad Science hovercraft, watch a foam factory at work, create super bouncy balls, make magic mud, alter sound waves and much more!
Where: Bookmans Ina
3733 W. Ina Rd. 
When: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 520-579-0303, www.madscience.org
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Saturday, May 19 - Sensorium for Kids: "You Are Special" Workshop

If you have children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, or friends with children, bring them to Sensorium for Kids and let them (and yourself, via your child) discover their special talents. We support creative, fun, playful, kind, loving and imaginative expression. We want to nurture your child/children in trusting his/her insight and intuition. By developing these skills, your child will build self-reliance and confidence.

Our first workshop, "You are Special", taps into your child as a special being. We will use hands-on activities like yoga, art, music, movement, and storytelling. A healthy snack will be provided.
Where: 914 E. Helen Street
When: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Who: Children ages 2-8 (Look for other age ranges at upcoming workshops.)
Parents are welcome to stay with their children for the meeting and are encouraged to participate.
How: Please RSVP by e-mail or phone (see contact info below).
Cost: $10 per family suggested donation.
For more info: Elisabeth Black is a certified teacher for 15 years, intuitive, empath, passionate about helping children accept their GIFTS, storyteller, and writer.  Contact her with questions or to RSVP at 520-282-0050 or sweetnessofsoul@yahoo.com
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Saturday, May 19 - Welcome the Returning Bats

Students of Rio Vista Elementary School perform a "Bat Dance" with Barbea Williams Performing Company and special musical guests. A bat expert shares his expertise, and an entomologist speaks about the insects that bats like to eat. The program is timed to end as the bats fly out from under the bridge.
Where: Rillito Riverbed, East of the Campbell bridge.
When: 6:00 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
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Saturday, May 19 - Movies in the Park (Marana Parks & Rec)

Join us for the FREE Movie in the Park Series as we present G or PG features on our inflatable outdoor screen. Grab your blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy the show!  May 19: Zookeeper
Where: San Lucas Park 14040 North Adonis Rd.
When: 7:30 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE. Snacks and drinks will be available for sale.
For more info: Marana Parks and Rec
520-382-1950 
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Sunday, May 20 - Rocket Launch - Southern Arizona Rocketry Association

Experience model and high power rocketry in Tucson! All ages and skill levels are welcome to participate, or just come to watch and have fun!
Where: 3250 N. Reservation Road
(Tucson International Modelplex Park Association) 
When: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: All ages and skill levels
How: Just show up
Cost: Spectators are FREE.
Rocket rentals are available for $2 per launch and include a motor.
Launch fees: $5; Members and kids under 18 fly free.
For more info: http://sararocketry.org 
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Sunday, May 20 - Science Sundays (Children's Museum Tucson)

Fun hands-on science activities and $2 admission every Sunday. Weekly guest organizations too!
Where: Children's Museum Tucson
200 S. 6th Ave.
When: 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just show up
Cost: $2 per person
For more info: 792-9985
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This Week's Calendar:


May 17th through May 23rd

Thursday, May 17 - Magic Tree House Book Club (Oro Valley)

If you love the Magic Tree House books by Mary Pope Osborne, then this is the club for you. We will meet the third Thursday of each month to explore a different book with activities and crafts and discussion. Come even if you haven't read the books.
Where: Oro Valley Library (Program Room) 1305 W. Naranja Drive Oro Valley, AZ
When: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: Children ages 6 to 10
How: Call 229-5300 to register
Cost: FREE
For more info: Oro Valley Library 229-5300  
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Friday, May 18 - Reptile Ramble

Docents present characteristics of snakes and lizards, how to tell the difference between species, and the roles each serves in the Sonoran Desert, during an interactive presentation and walk every Friday, through July 27.
Where: Tohono Chul Park
7366 N. Paseo de Norte
When: 10:00 AM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: $8 adults; $6 senior; $5 active military; $4 student with ID; $2 ages 5-12; free for members or child younger than 5-12, includes admission to the park.
For more info: Visit tohonochulpark.org
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Friday, May 18 - Summer Safari Nights (Reid Park Zoo)

The Reid Park Zoo will stay open from 5 PM to 10 PM every Friday through July 6. Games, crafts and face-painting are included.
Where: Reid Park Zoo
1030 S. Randolph Way
When: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: Admission $7.50; $5 children over 2; FREE for children under 2.
For more info: tucsonzoo.org, 881-4753
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Friday, May 18 through Sunday, May 20 - Seussical (Christian Youth Theater)

Seussical explores the witty, wild and whimsical world of Dr. Seuss as you've never seen it before. Travel back to your childhood to the Land of Whos and the Jungle of Nool and re-discover the delightfully zany characters created by one of the most beloved storytellers of all time. Both audiences and critics have been eating Seussical up like Green Eggs and Ham! Seussical has been called the "best family musical to hit Broadway in a long, long time!", and CYT is bringing it to you!
Where: University of Arizona Music Building
1017 N Olive Rd Tucson, AZ 85717
When: 7:00 PM (Saturday, also 2:00 PM; Sunday: Only 2:00 PM)
Who: The whole family
How: Purchase tickets here
Cost: $12
For more info: www.cyttucson.org
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Saturday, May 19 - Arizona Centennial State-wide Fly-In

A fly-in from throughout the state will celebrate the history of aircraft, with aircraft displays, educational exhibits, and control tower tours.

Where: Ryan Airfield
9698 W. Ajo Way
When: 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Pancake breakfast from 7AM-10AM)
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 883-9800
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Saturday, May 19 - Monsoon Muttness

Pet adoption discounts, giveaways, free food, games, a dog show, and raffles at feaured at this pet adoption event.
Where: Pima Animal Care Center
4000 N. Silverbell Rd.
When: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Who: Anyone interested in pet adoption
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 743-7550
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Saturday, May 19 - Lion's Pride: A Tail of Deployment Launch Party (Mildred & Dildred)

Come to the launch party for "Lion's Pride: A Tail of Deployment," a new storybook written by Grace Remey (who is 8 years old!).  Hear a reading, enjoy some snacks, and make your own book!
Where: Mildred & Dildred
La Encantada
2905 E. Skyline 
When: 10:30 AM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: Mildred & Dildred Toy Store, 615-6266 
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Saturday, May 19 - Craft-apalooza Kid's Craft (Bookmans Ina)

Today's crafts are all about the awesome world of science! We're coloring cosmic frisbees for a flying good time! We are also cracking open geodes to discover what is hidden beneath its rocky shell.
Where: Bookmans Ina
3733 W. Ina Rd. 
When: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 520-579-0303
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Saturday, May 19 - Horse Tales Family Book Club (Wheeler Taft Abbett)

Do you like horses or horse stories? Join us for Horse Tales, a family book club! We'll read The Black Stallion by Walter Farley and enjoy horse themed activities. This 3-part program is part of the Horse Tales Literacy Project.
No registration necessary. Books will be provided.
Watch the movie about the black stallion, then discuss the book and the movie.
Where: Wheeler Taft Abbett Library 7800 N. Schisler Dr.
When: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Who: The whole family
How: No registration necessary. Just show up.
Cost: FREE
For more info: 594-5200
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Sunday, May 20 - Minifigure Swap Party (Mildred & Dildred)

Minifigure Swap Party!  Bring in your Lego Minifigures and swap them with out Lego fans!  Also, enter a free raffle to win MORE Minifigures!
Where: Mildred & Dildred
La Encantada
2905 E. Skyline 
When: 1:00 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: Mildred & Dildred Toy Store, 615-6266 
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Monday, May 21 - Family Jump Night (Pump It Up)

During Pump It Up's Family Jump Time, you and your family are invited to come and play on our giant, soft, fun-filled interactive inflatables, followed by pizza and beverage in the party room. Socks are required to play.
Where: Pump-It-Up 3248 N. Freeway Industrial Loop
When: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Who: Families
How: Just show up, or make an online reservation: http://www.pumpitupparty.com/az/tucson/home-p1q161.htm. Online reservations available up to 30 minutes before the event.  
Cost: $10.00 per child $5.00 per adult
For more info: Pump-It-Up: 888-9198
 
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Tuesday, May 22 - ONEBOOKAZ 2012: "Arizona Way Out West & Witty"

Authors Conrad Storad and Lynda Exley make it fun to learn about Arizona's history! The authors will visit the library to entertain adults and children alike. Highlights of Arizona's history are punctuated with true but gross, humorous, interesting and witty stories and facts about the Grand Canyon State. Copies of this book, provided by the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records Division, will be given to the first 12 children.
No registration required.
Where: Oro Valley Library (TeenZone) 1305 W. Naranja Drive Oro Valley, AZ
When: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: Oro Valley Library 229-5300  
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Wednesday, May 23 - Hawk Happening (Tohono Chul Park)

Children's Ramada Traveling avian ambassador Sueño and her human, Kathie Schroeder, are back to share secrets in the lives of the Southwest’s amazing Harris’ hawks. 
Where: Tohono Chul Park (Children's Ramada)
7366 N. Paseo Del Norte 
When: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE with admission: $7 ($5 senior or active military), $3 student with valid I.D.; $2 ages 5 through 12; FREE for younger than 5 or member. 
For more info: 742-6455
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Wednesday, May 23 - Family Jump Night (Pump It Up)

During Pump It Up's Family Jump Time, you and your family are invited to come and play on our giant, soft, fun-filled interactive inflatables, followed by pizza and beverage in the party room. Socks are required to play.
Where: Pump-It-Up 3248 N. Freeway Industrial Loop
When: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Who: Families
How: Just show up, or make an online reservation: http://www.pumpitupparty.com/az/tucson/home-p1q161.htm. Online reservations available up to 30 minutes before the event.  
Cost: $10.00 per child $5.00 per adult
For more info: Pump-It-Up: 888-9198
 
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Teen Scene:


May 21st through May 22nd

Monday, May 21 - Teen Advisory Board - TAB (Nanini)

Nanini Library's TAB (Teen Advisory Board) is open to teens 12 and up. Join the fun participating in library programs, reaching out to the community and sharing about books. We meet twice a month on Mondays and on occasional Saturdays.
Where: Nanini Library 7300 N. Shannon Rd.
When: 7:00 PM - 7:45 PM
Who: Teens 12 and up.
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: Nanini Library 594-5365
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Tuesday, May 22 - Hang-Out StuDio

Hang-Out stuDio is a drop-in studio for middle school & high school students, every Tuesday evening. Drop-in & Hang-0ut, create & communicate. Free art supplies & volunteer to monitor the student organized program provided by A.C.M.EstuDio.  Your stuDio, Your works, opportunity to display and sell your art work.
Note: This program does not provide transportation. Parents are advised to carpool for now.
Where: Marana Health Center Community Room
come in off the Farmers Market
13395 N. Marana Main Street
Marana, AZ.85653
When: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM (Every Tuesday evening)
Who: Middle school & high school students
How: There is a parent registration form to fill out.
Call A.C.M.EstuDio at 520-861-7442
Cost: $1 towards the pizza fund
For more info: E-mail: acmestudio10625@comcast.net
Or call 520-861-7442
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Plan Ahead:


May 25th through May 29th

Friday, May 25 - Summer Safari Nights (Reid Park Zoo)

The Reid Park Zoo will stay open from 5 PM to 10 PM every Friday through July 6. Games, crafts and face-painting are included.
Where: Reid Park Zoo
1030 S. Randolph Way
When: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: Admission $7.50; $5 children over 2; FREE for children under 2.
For more info: tucsonzoo.org, 881-4753
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Saturday, May 26 - Jack and the Beanstalk: A Free Play! (Mildred & Dildred)

Join us for a free play, Jack and the Beanstalk!
Where: Mildred & Dildred
La Encantada
2905 E. Skyline 
When: 10:30 AM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: Mildred & Dildred Toy Store, 615-6266 
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Sunday, May 27 - Gadsden-Pacific Toy Train Museum

The Gadsden-Pacific Toy Train Operating Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to the hobby of model railroading, by providing the public with an interactive museum of operating toy train layouts and displays.
When: 12:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Who: Open to the public  
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE (Donations appreciated)
For more info: 520-888-2222 (answering machine) or gpdToyTrainMuseum.com
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Monday, May 28 - Arts Express Presents "A Hero's Salute"

Join us as Arts Express honors the brave men and women from the Tucson Community who have served, as well as those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. This uplifting and inspirational Memorial Day tribute will recognize our military, first responders, public servants, volunteers, and others who have placed themselves before others.
The program will feature the Arts Express Choir and Brass, directed by Dr. David Ashcraft, Co-Artistic Director of Arts Express.
Where: U of A Crowder Hall
When: 3:00 PM
Who: Open to the public.
How: Tickets required for guaranteed seating.
Those without a ticket will be seated as space is available.
See website for ticket information.
Cost: This is presented FREE of charge, however a $5 donation is suggested to cover expenses.
For more info: http://www.arts-express.org or 520-319-0400
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Tuesday, May 29 through Friday, June 1 - FREE Movie Summer at Tower Theatres

Join us for FREE Movie Summer at the Tower Treehouse!
Week of May 29: Kung Fu Panda (PG)
Tues., May 29 is Macaroni Day:
Macaroni Kid will be here with a craft before the movie and a movie-related giveaway.
See the entire Tower Treehouse summer movie schedule here.
Where: Tower Theatres
5755 N. Arizona Pavilions
When: 10:00 AM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE to kids 10 & under, all others $2
For more info: 579-0500, mytowertheatres.com
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New to Macaroni Kid?


Your Macaroni Kid Users Guide

For those of you who are new to Macaroni Kid, here's a little bit of information about some of the great features to help get the most out of your NW Tucson Macaroni Kid newsletter.

What is Macaroni Kid?
Macaroni Kid is a website. It's also a newsletter.  What's the difference? They're the same thing, except that once the newsletter is "published" each week (e-mailed to each subscriber), then the website will change and reflect the current newsletter. The advantage of subscribing is that you will ...


365 Days of Natureʼs Own Bread. FREE!


Enter Natureʼs Own Portrait on a Plate Contest for your chance to win a yearʼs worth of bread!

Natureʼs Own understands the importance of family and thatʼs probably why itʼs Americaʼs favorite soft variety bread. And now theyʼve launched a contest for the month of May where moms and their kids can have fun in the kitchen and get the chance to win free bread or other Natureʼs Own products for an entire year.

All through this month, moms and their children will be in the kitchen creating unique portraits of Mom, using bread, meats, vegetables, fruit, condiments and whatever else is on hand in the pantry or ...

Gaming Days at Local Libraries


 If your family likes playing games together as a way to spend time together, or with peers to hone their skills, the public libraries have scheduled gaming days where you can play classics like Monopoly, Chutes and Ladders and Pokemon, or electronic games such as Playstation and Wii.

Gaming Days specifically for Teens will usually be included on the weekly calendar under the "Teen Scene" section.

 Flowing Wells Library: 594-5225


Jammie Stroll


This past week I read an article in a magazine that spoke of various ways to resolve challenges with toddlers, including bedtime. For the most part our nearly 5 year old does ok with bedtime routine, but it does appear over the past few weeks that our household needs to focus a bit more on a wind down routine for her sake…and momma and daddy’s!  The one thing that jumped off the page of the story and into my heart was the “Pajama Stroll.”  We implemented this new ...

Local Farmers Markets


Buy local, buy fresh

If you like fresh, quality fruits and vegetables, then purchasing them at a local farmers market or farm stand is the way to go. Below is information on the farmers markets located on the northwest side of town, with a link to their website.

Catalina Farmers Market: 77North Marketplace is a friendly and eclectic market that offers organic produce, fresh baked goods, artisans, merchandise and food vendors, food court, and more!
When: Every Friday, October to May, from 9:00 AM-2:00 PM
Where: 16733 N. Oracle Rd., Catalina, AZ ...


Macaroni Cares


Wildlife Weekend

Join the movement! Macaroni Kid is helping Dawn educate more than 2 million kids this spring about the issues affecting wildlife, from oil spills to backyard ecosystems. Check out the FREE, downloadable lesson plans and experiments for teachers and parents. The fun doesn't end in the classroom – you'll also find FREE "Wildlife Weekend" family activities that you can do in your own backyard.

To continue Dawn's 30+ year commitment to preserving wildlife, Dawn worked with their partners at The Marine Mammal Center and International Bird Rescue to ...

Macaroni Made:Marshmallow/Pom Pom Shooter


This is a really simple craft that leaves your mini macaroni with a fun toy to enjoy after! It's a marshmallow/pom pom shooter!

What you need:
2 plastic cups
1 balloon
scissors
marshmallows and/or pom poms

What you do:
Stack the 2 plastic cups and cut them about a third of the way down. (I used 2 for sturdiness. If you have a surdier cup, one will probably do)

Tie your balloon and cut the (non-tied) end. 

Your shooter will look like this:

Place the marshmallow or ...

Macaroni Yum: Sunbutter Oatmeal Cookies


Cookies are a favorite in our house, but the variety is limited because of food allergies.  Last week we experimented with some recipes using Sunbutter (sunflower butter) instead of peanut butter and the cookies came out great!  Most people that tried them could barely tell the difference between these and the "real" thing!

Makes about 4 dozen small cookies

Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup shortening
1 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup white sugar
1 cup Sunbutter (we used crunchy)
2 eggs
1 1/2 ...

Northwest Tucson Storytimes


Storytimes are not only offered by the libraries. Bookstores, coffee shops, and museums offer story times too, and many of them include singing, music, and arts and crafts projects. Storytimes are either free or are included with admission.
Links to the storytime websites are provided - please check there before you go for holiday closures and schedule changes.

Barnes & Noble Westside
Foothills Mall - 7325 N. La Cholla Blvd. Store hours and calendar
Storytimes: Wednesdays at 10:00 AM and Saturdays at 11:00 AM
A craft activity follows each Story Time ...


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