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SnoqualmieValley-Issaquah
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Fall into Local Fun with Macaroni Kid


Issaquah, Sammamish, Snoqualmie, North Bend and Fall City

This week we put our heads together and came up with some family-friendly and inexpensive things to do during the fall.  And, so without further ado, Diana and I present to you ...

The Macaroni Kid Top Ten List of

Fabulous and Fun FALL ACTIVITIES:

  1. Visit a local pumpkin patch; hay, gourds, and animals!  Oh My!
  2. Use leaves to make art - we've got plenty of ideas on Pinterest or see our two favorites from artfulparent.com here and here!
  3. Bake something with pumpkin as a key ingredient!
  4. Go to a HS football game or play Flag Football.
  5. Make Dinner-in-a-Pumpkin followed by Lime Toasted Pumpkin Seeds
  6. Build a scarecrow ... or "scareprincess" if your child is anything like mine!
  7. Rake leaves and jump in the pile!  Don't miss this great photo op and make sure parents are included in the pictures.
  8. Get Out & About and try Letterboxing - it's a treasure hunting adventure!
  9. Gather around an evening bonfire - sing songs, tell stories, ... make s'mores!
  10. Spend an afternoon at Gilman Village and be sure to visit the new CleanScapes "rethinking stuff" Store. 

I know that's a lot of fall fun, but in your spare time ...

  • drop off a costume for our Costume Swap on 10.13.12 - there's still time to get your ticket and join us for a morning of fun and treats!
  • browse our Work From Home Guide to learn about local mom-preneurs who are working out of their homes and making money!
  • get to know a local mom and her MommyStickers and enter for the chance to win. {GIVEAWAY}
  • recognize a teacher with our Teacher of the Month program!  Nominations close Friday, October 12th at 10:00 pm
  • October is also National Breast Cancer Awareness month, and we want to remind local mamas to Check Your Boobies!


Have a wonderful week! 


Work From Home Guide


Welcome to Macaroni Kid's new WORK FROM HOME GUIDE.  

Once a month for the next four months, you will find this article featuring local Independent Consultants and mom-preneurs who are working out of their homes and making money! 

So if you are looking to make money from home or want to host a mom's night in (with benefits) or find a way to get connected with local moms and their great services/products, this guide is for you!


Below in alphabetical order you will find a brief description ...

Out & About: Pumpkin Patches


It's bound to be an adventure when you head out into the fields of a local farm to pick the favorite fruit (yes, fruit) of Fall! 

Between now and October 31st, families everywhere will seek out the perfect pumpkin, scoop its guts and carve it, light it and enjoy it, and then watch it decompose (my favorite part).  Since you don't want to miss out on that tradition, Macaroni Kid has compiled a list of local pumpkin-picking-places! (Say that three times fast!)

So charge up that camera, grab ...

Meet the New CleanScapes Store


Newly opened CleanScapes “rethinking stuff” store in Gilman Village

When you hear the word CleanScapes, you probably envision those big, bright green trucks.  You know the ones that appear once a week to collect local garbage, recycling, and compost.  The ones your kids hear and excitedly run to the window to catch a glimpse of.

But CleanScapes is much more than a fleet of trucks.  In fact, there's a new CleanScapes retail space and customer service center in Gilman Village near Flat Iron Grill and Ravens Books.  In addition to paying a bill or dropping off hard to ...

A Local Mom and her MommyStickers {GIVEAWAY}


I am so inspired by creative mom-preneurs who see the need for a product and devise a simple solution.  After our very special Baby edition published at the beginning of September, I met just that kind of mom, who recently moved to Sammamish, and brought with her the ingenius MommyStickers!  A product that every expectant mom, new mom,  and mom-of-a-todder should own and use!

Jamie Branco, mom of two, and creator of MommyStickers shares her story ...

When I was 8 months pregnant I had my driver’s side door blocked ...

Featured Local Businesses





This Week's Picks:


October 13th through October 16th

Saturday, October 13 - ISSAQUAH: Costume Swap Event at Small Threads

Your very own Macaroni Kid Snoqualmie Valley - Issaquah is partnering with Small Threads for Kids, CleanScapes Store in Gilman Village, Adventure Kids Playcare, and Steve's Doughnuts to bring you an exciting - third annual - National Costume Swap Day event.  Take a green approach to dressing up this Halloween and SWAP your gently used costume(s) for a new one.  During the event, participants will be treated to a discount on childcare at AKP and a 20% discount on all merchandise at Small Threads!  That’s right, you can DROP off your child, SWAP for a new costume, and then SHOP!
Where: Small Threads for Kids | 1480 NW Gilman Blvd #3 | Issaquah
When: 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Who: Local moms and dads looking for a "green" alternative this Halloween (and a really great deal).
How: Drop off your swap-able costumes at Small Threads for Kids OR the new CleanScapes Store in Gilman Village during business hours starting September 1 through October 12.   In exchange for your costume(s) you will be given a Swap Ticket to be brought back for the event on October 13 from 8:00 am to 10:00 am.
Cost: FREE
For more info: Stop by or call Small Threads 425-427-5430

Saturday, October 13 - ISSAQUAH: Family Harvest Celebration at Pickering Garden

The whole family is invited to participate in these exciting FREE garden celebrations.  Discover the joy of gardening with kids! Indulge in garden snacks and let loose in our organic learning gardens. Families can use all of their senses to explore the garden, seek out garden critters and plant a vegetable or flower to take home.
Where: Pickering Barn, 1730 10th Ave. N.W., Issaquah, WA  98027
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Everyone is welcome
How: Come and see what Seattle Tilth's children's garden programs are all about; no need to rsvp.
Cost: FREE

Saturday, October 13 through Sunday, October 14 - CARNATION: Camp Korey Fall Festival

You'll find Hay rides, cooking demonstrations, pick-a-pumpkin, farm animals, kids activities, live music, food concession, and more this weekend at Camp Korey!
Where: Camp Korey | 28901 NE Carnation Farm Road, Carnation
When: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Who: Everyone is welcome!
How: Plan to attend
Cost: FREE admission

Saturday, October 13 through Sunday, October 14 - SAMMAMISH: Art Fair

The fair features some of the best jury-selected local artists on the Eastside.  In the Sammamish Library and the outside Plaza area, there will be an exciting program of ART ENCOUNTERS, which will include performance artists, hands on family arts activities and projects during the fair weekend.
Where: Sammamish City Hall and Library
When: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Who: Everyone is welcome
How: Plan to attend
Cost: FREE

Saturday, October 13 - WORTH THE DRIVE: Kelsey Creek Farm Fair

Bring your family to the farm and enjoy a variety of old-time activities, pony rides and food!  Expect live entertainment by Cowboy Buck, tractor-pulled hayrides, pumpkin decorating, inflatables, and more!
Where: Kelsey Creek Farm: 410 130th Place S in, Bellevue WA
When: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Who: Everyone is welcome
How: Plan to attend
Cost: FREE admission.  Other costs vary depending upon activity. There will be a charge for kids' activities, pony rides and food.  Sorry, no ATM on site, and no charge cards are accepted.
For more info: View the event flyer ONLINE.

Sunday, October 14 - CARNATION: Harvest Hoe Down and Pumpkin Patch Party at Oxbow Farm

At the Hoe Down and Pumpkin Patch Party, you'll find hay rides, pumpkin carving, and bobbing for apples!  If you're looking for something a bit more hands-on like climbing the greased pole or cider pressing.  You'll also find cooking and canning demos by local food celebs, lots of popcorn popping, a scavenger hunt, fun farm crafts, live music and delicious food trucks!  Celebrate the harvest season, head to the Farm for Fall Fun!
Where: Oxbow Farm | 10819 Carnation-Duvall Rd NE | Carnation, WA 98014
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Everyone is welcome, fun for all ages!
How: CLICK HERE to buy tickets now!
Cost: $5.00 per person; $5.00 per carving pumpkin (other larger pumpkins are for purchase as well, these are specifically for the carving station)

Sunday, October 14 - NORTH BEND: Pop-Up Museum: Cedar River Stories

Bring an object that fits the theme - Cedar River Stories.  You will write a label for your object and then conversation begins.  The "museum" may be temporary, but you will bring home more than just your object after this special time of sharing.
Where: Cedar River Watershed Education Center, 19901 Cedar Falls Rd SE, North Bend, WA 98045
When: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: All ages welcome
Cost: FREE

Tuesday, October 16 - ISSAQUAH: Women's Fall Fashion Luncheon

This is a great Mom's Day Out event! Learn to dress for your shape and develop your own personal style with the help of keynote speaker Kim Crumpler of Uniquely Savvy.  Shop, browse, and learn from local vendors represented at this event - all geared toward fashion and beauty.  Enjoy a delicious lunch catered by WildFin American Grill.
Where: Pickering Barn, 1730 10th Ave. N.W., Issaquah, WA  98027
When: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Who: Everyone is welcome
How: Advance Registration is required.
Cost: This is a FREE event, however donations will be accepted at the event to benefit Encompass.

This Week's Calendar:


Saturday, October 13 - ISSAQUAH: Tree Planting Kick-Off with Mountain to Sound Greenway Trust

An annual tradition, the Greenway Trust is hosting a series of native tree and shrub plantings starting with the October 13th Kick-Off.  The celebration will feature food, music and vendors for the whole family to enjoy, plus plenty of trees to plant.
Where: Sammamish Cove  | Issaquah, WA 98027
When: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Who: Planting events are excellent for individuals, families, groups, and work teams. No experience is required.
How: Sign up for a shift, either full or half day
Cost: FREE
For more info: mtsgreenway.org

Saturday, October 13 - ISSAQUAH: Lowe's Build & Grow Clinic - Ghoul Bus

Halloween is right around the corner! Get in the spirit with this spooktacular Ghoul Bus!
Where: 1625 11Th Avenue NW | Issaquah, WA 98027
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Kids 3 and up!
Cost: FREE; Each participant also receives a free apron, goggles, a project themed patch and a certification of merit upon completion of their project.
For more info: Call the Issaquah store: (425) 391-3355; go online

Saturday, October 13 - ISSAQUAH: Baby Music Time at the Library

Discover wonderful ways to explore music through baby-friendly instruments and unique movement. Presented by The Musik Nest.
 

Where: Issaquah Library |  10 W Sunset Way, Issaquah 98027
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Ages newborn to 14 months with adult.
How: Plan to attend
Cost: FREE
For more info: 425.392.5430

Saturday, October 13 - ISSAQUAH History Museums Present: Happy 40th to Us!

Celebrate the Issaquah History Museum's 40th anniversary in style! This special autumn program features a lively presentation by Erica Maniez, Director of the Issaquah History Museums, cakes baked from vintage recipes, and live music.
Where: Train Depot at 150 1ST Avenue NE
When: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Who: Everyone is welcome
How: Plan to attend
Cost: FREE

Teen Scene:


October 15th through October 17th

Monday, October 15 - FALL CITY: Middle Schoolers Only

October 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 at 2:45pm,  Snacks, homework and fun time, all rolled into one!
Where: Fall City Library, 33415 SE 42nd Place, Fall City
When: 2:45 PM
Who: Teens
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: www.kcls.org

Wednesday, October 17 - SNOQUALMIE: Anime & Manga Club

October 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 at 3pm.   Anime & Manga Club – Watch anime, practice drawing manga, and munch on popcorn.  
Where: Snoqualmie Library, Snoqualmie Ridge
When: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Bring your friends – all teen programs are open to teens in grades 6-12.
How: Just show up or contact Sarah at 425-888-0554 or [email protected] for more information.
Cost: FREE
For more info: Contact Sarah at 425-888-0554 or [email protected] for more information, or www.kcls.org

Plan Ahead:


October 18th through October 20th

Thursday, October 18 - SNOQUALMIE: Radical Robots

Presented by Pacific Science Center. - Explore the world of robotics while becoming real robot programmers.
Where: Snoqualmie Library, 7824 Center Blvd SE, Snoqualmie, WA
When: 3:30 AM
Who: Everyone is welcome.
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: www.kcls.org

Thursday, October 18 - SAMMAMISH: Halloween Kidtacular Carnival

Join us for some haunting fun! You and your kiddos are invited to a FREE Halloween Kidtacular Carnival. We will have a Ballon Animalist, Kinect Dance Party, Sesame Street Bounce House, Bounce Obstacle Course, an Interactive Angry Birds Game, Free Carnival Games, Free Cotton Candy, Free Milk, Free Baby Food Pouch and Free Pinkabella Cupcakes and more. We've got games for toddlers to young adult, so bring the whole family. There will also be a Halloween Costume Contest, prizes and a raffle! We'll have photo areas setup so bring your camera. Dress yourself and your little ones to impress and you might just win a prize, for our grown up winner we'll be giving away a Keurig!
Where: Mary Queen of Peace 1121 228th Ave SE Sammamish, WA 98075 Mary Queen of Peace Church has graciously given us a fabulous venue at a huge discount, however this event is non religious. We welcome people from all religions/non religions.
When: 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Who: Everyone is welcome
How: Plan to attend
Cost: FREE; we will be raising money and food for the Issaquah Food Bank, so please bring non parishable food items for the Food Bank and for every $5 that you donate you'll get 3 raffle tickets.
For more info: For more event details CLICK HERE

If you are a mom in search of playdates check out our Meetup groups: Sammamish Moms or Eastside Baby/Toddler Group

Saturday, October 20 - CARNATION: Apple Harvest Festival

Make apple cider and apple butter, buy fresh apples, cider and other amazing produce.  Farm tours, kids events and a horse-drawn wagon (weather permitting).
Where: Dog Mountain Farm, 7026 Tolt Highlands Road NE, Carnation
When: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Who: Everyone is welcome
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE to attend
For more info: website

Saturday, October 20 - NORTH BEND: Harvest Carnival

Brought to you by Encompass and Si View Parks.  Put your costume on and enjoy some harvest season fun!  Carnival games, food, and a g-rated haunted house.  For those who enjoy a scary experience check out the event on October 27.
Where: Si View Community Center, North Bend
When: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Families
How: Just show up
Cost: Carnival games 5/$1, Haunted House $1
For more info: www.siviewpark.org

Saturday, October 20 - ISSAQUAH: Fall Festival and Spooktacular Halloween Party at Fox Hollow Farm

There's no better place to celebrate Halloween than at Fox Hollow Farm! This event is packed with activities including Halloween-themed crafts and games, mountains of pumpkins to peruse through, a hay-bale maze, and trick-or-treating! Experience the changing of the leaves as Autumn dazzles your family with brilliant red, orange, and gold leaves all over the farm (photo opportunities will abound) and if you're lucky, catch a glimpse of the salmon rushing up Issaquah Creek to finish spawning.  Additional activities available include taking a train ride, bouncing on one of our huge new inflatables, riding a pony through the forest, or hanging out with over 80 friendly animals.
Where: Fox Hollow Farm |  12031 Issaquah-Hobart Road SE |  Issaquah, WA 98027
When: 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM (AGAIN October 21st from 10:00-2:00, and October 31st from 1:00 to 5:00pm)
Who: Everyone is welcome; costumes are highly encouraged and most families wear them.
How: No need to RSPV, but keep in mind that it's first come, first serve. The huge new parking lot open to accommodate everyone this year.
Cost: $5 for adults and $10 for children ages 1 to 17 (payment due at the gate when you arrive). Children under 12 months are free.

It's Not Too Late to Swap Your Costumes


Halloween is quickly approaching and that means it's time for Macaroni Kid's 3rd Annual Costume Swap!

Before you toss out that "old" costume or head to the store to buy a new one, plan to participate in National Costume Swap Day this Saturday, October 13.

It's so easy! Find swap-able costumes (clean, gently used) at home and drop them off during business hours on Friday at one of these locations:


Local Parenting Groups


Belong to a fantastic moms' group or play group?  Looking for some more members?

I don't know what I would do without my moms group!  And many subscribers have requested information on local parent/kid groups.  If you organize or belong to a group that you love, email [email protected] or leave a comment. Would love to add to our listing!

Issaquah Hip Mama Collective
The Issaquah Hip Mama Collective welcomes stay-at-home and working parents who celebrate intuitive parenting techniques (attachment parenting, free range parenting, or just plain ...


Teacher of the Month - Nominate a Teacher Today!


Recognizing the dedication of teachers in the Snoqualmie Valley, Issaquah and Sammamish areas.

Can you name a teacher who has made a difference in your child's life? We bet you can!  Would you like to recognize a hardworking teacher in a really special way?  Of course you would!

Macaroni Kid Snoqualmie Valley-Issaquah is super excited to team with Bridget Franklin from The Cascade Team, Flat Iron Grill, Therapeutic Health and Issaquah Trophy & Awards to recognize a Teacher of the Month - every month - starting now!

Whether you have kids in daycare, pre-school or “real school,” we need to hear from you so ...


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