RichmondMom.com » Richmond Rocks children’s book http://richmondmom.com Where Hip Moms Click! Sun, 05 Apr 2015 00:28:47 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=4.1.1 Richmond Rocks! Goddard School Henrico http://richmondmom.com/2014/11/18/richmond-rocks-goddard-school-henrico/ http://richmondmom.com/2014/11/18/richmond-rocks-goddard-school-henrico/#comments Wed, 19 Nov 2014 00:57:28 +0000 http://richmondmom.com/?p=60477 Goddard School Henrico 013Former CEO of Richmondmom.com, blogger and children’s author Kate Hall continues to entertain school kids of all different ages, from pre-school through elementary school, with author visits for Richmond Rocks! and The Spooky Sequel!

She had an amazing time reading to the enthusiastic tikes at Goddard School Henrico. They had enjoyed having her so much last year that asked her back again for a repeat performance, and she was more than happy to!

The kids learned a lot about their local history, and learned new things about some of the places they had visited in our city. For instance, they couldn’t believe that there used to be live alligators in the fountain at the Jefferson Hotel!

I think they learned a little bit about literary history too. One little guy learned that Edgar Allen Poe was not in fact George Washington…Goddard School Henrico 007

Would you like to have a free author visit and fundraiser at your school? Contact Suzanne Sherif: [email protected].

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Richmond Rocks! The Spooky Sequel at RC Longan Elementary School http://richmondmom.com/2013/10/29/richmond-rocks-the-spooky-sequel-at-rc-longan-elementary-school/ http://richmondmom.com/2013/10/29/richmond-rocks-the-spooky-sequel-at-rc-longan-elementary-school/#comments Tue, 29 Oct 2013 17:13:19 +0000 http://richmondmom.com/?p=51039 Richmond Rocks! The Spooky Sequel, RC Longan ESWhat an enthusiastic audience at RC Longan! Judging by the Q&A session, after Kate’s reading of Richmond Rocks! The Spooky Sequel, these kids really love books!

Do your kids like to read? My favorite books are the I Survived series.

“Yes! My kids love to read too!”

Do your kids like non-fiction?

“They sure do! And they love to share their books with me, and let me read them too!”

When do you find time to write?

“After my kids are in bed. Unfortunately, I really like sleep too! So, sometimes it’s hard to find the time…”

Richmond Rocks! The Spooky Sequel, RC Longan ES 2How old were you when you started writing?

“I was just about your age – nine years old – when I started writing. But don’t ask me how old I am now. Let’s just say I’ve been doing this for a few years now…”

When is your next book coming out? How about a Christmas book next time?

“Now that’s an interesting idea! Maybe I’ll think about doing that.”

How much do you get paid?

“Are you going to be an accountant when you grow up?”

Actually, I guess that last question was more bookkeeping-related than book-related…

Would you like to have a free author visit and fundraiser at your school? Contact Suzanne Sherif: [email protected]

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Don’t Miss Mommy & Me (And Daddies Too!) Wednesday, August 14th http://richmondmom.com/2013/07/31/dont-miss-mommy-me-and-daddies-too-wednesday-august-14th/ http://richmondmom.com/2013/07/31/dont-miss-mommy-me-and-daddies-too-wednesday-august-14th/#comments Thu, 01 Aug 2013 01:13:23 +0000 http://richmondmom.com/?p=46939 Mommy & Me Willow Lawn Richmond VAJoin Richmondmom.com at this month’s Willow Lawn’s Mommy & Me and Daddy Too, which will be held outside at The Shops at Willow Lawn on Wednesday, August 14th, 2013 from 10:00 am to 11:30 am, for some free outdoor fun with the kids!  The Diggity Dudes are back, which is ALWAYS a good time, so it’s sure to be a fun event, great for all ages!

As always, be sure to stop by the Richmondmom.com table! We’re giving away more Richmond Rocks! books and will have treats and crafts for the kids.  And best of all – it’s FREE! Click here for information.

MOMMY & ME (And Daddy Too!)

2nd Wednesday of Each Month 10:00am–11:30am Willow Lawn Plaza

 

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Young House Love AND Kate Hall Share Home Love Secrets http://richmondmom.com/2013/05/06/young-house-love-and-kate-hall-share-home-love-secrets/ http://richmondmom.com/2013/05/06/young-house-love-and-kate-hall-share-home-love-secrets/#comments Mon, 06 May 2013 22:54:36 +0000 http://richmondmom.com/?p=41621 yhlCheck out a super fun event right here in Richmond, Virginia with some fantastic celebrities – including Kate Hall!

Young House Love: 243 Ways to Paint, Craft, Update and Show Your Home Some Love
Sherry PetersikJohn Petersik

Author Event

Sherry and John Petersik are the creators of the hit home improvement blog Young House Love and authors of Young House Love: 243 Ways to Paint, Craft, Update and Show Your Home Some Love. We are excited to host them for a discussion and book signing.

When:

Tuesday – May 07, 2013

Time:

7:00 PM

Location:

Creeks @ VA Center
9850 Brook Road, Glen Allen, VA 23059
804-264-6850

Special Guest!

Sherry and John will be joined by Kate Hall, Richmondmom.com CEO/founder and author of Richmond Rocks and Spooky Sequel! Let’s show Young House Love and Kate Hall some real Richmond love!

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Wine Down to Benefit Tricycle Gardens on June 5, 2013 http://richmondmom.com/2013/05/05/wine-down-to-benefit-tricycle-gardens-on-june-5-2013/ http://richmondmom.com/2013/05/05/wine-down-to-benefit-tricycle-gardens-on-june-5-2013/#comments Mon, 06 May 2013 00:46:13 +0000 http://richmondmom.com/?p=41541 The June Richmondmom.com Monthly Wine Down event is scheduled at The Wine Loft on Wednesday, June 5, 2013 and it will benefitThe Wine Loft Richmond VA Tricycle Gardens of Richmond.tricycle

Time: 6:30-9:00 pm

Location: The Wine Loft in Short Pump

Who: Anyone who wants to have fun and help a great cause!

 

 

Thanks to Downtownshortpump.com’s team for partnering with us
each month for these fun events.

About Tricycle Gardens

Tricycle Gardens is a grassroots, environmental nonprofit organization focused on bringing agriculture, nutrition education and healthy food access to the urban core of Richmond, Virginia.  Founded in 2002 by three architects living in Church Hill who believed community gardens, and the simple act of growing food, were the fastest ways to transform the overall health of their community – both for the residents and the environment.

DowntownShortPump.comThe goal of Tricycle Gardens is to transform abandoned, overgrown urban lots into sources of food and opportunities for economic development in low income neighborhoods.  Starting with a group of friends and neighbors planting one community garden on a vacant lot owned by The Better Housing Coalition; Tricycle Gardens has grown into four community gardens, three learning gardens, a green house at Bryan Park, a ½-acre urban farm and a 3,000 sq ft edible forest garden at the Science Museum of Virginia.

Invite Others and Join Us!

RSVP & Share on Facebook here!

Invite all of your friends and share this on social media! Richmond Rocks Spooky SequelAnd if that’s not enough reason to come, then check these additional great reasons to join us:

  • The Wine Loft Richmond is the shizzle. It’s a cozy atmosphere that allows for networking so bring a friend, or two, or three! Or come alone, we’ll introduce you around.
  • There will be complimentary delicious appetizers provided with discounted wines for purchase.
  • We give stuff away. That’s right. . .for every entry fee of $10 we give you a raffle ticket. Additional tickets may be purchased for $1 each (so bring lots of dollars!).  We give away photography gift certificates, Richmond Rocks books,  and generally cool prizes you will surely put to use.
  • All funds raised will benefit the non-profit. Contact us if you want to mail a donation.
  • As much as $1,000 is raised each month in just a couple hours at each event at the Wine Loft – we raised over $1,200 at our May 2013 event!
  • Over the last three years, we’ve raised thousands of dollars for great Richmond non-profits just by having fun.

For businesses owners who would like to donate a raffle prize, we appreciate you! Please contact us: [email protected].

These events may also be sponsored by businesses owners, like the Gundlach sisters, who have a huge charitable heart!

 

 

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Stepping Back but Not Away http://richmondmom.com/2013/05/02/stepping-back-but-not-away/ http://richmondmom.com/2013/05/02/stepping-back-but-not-away/#comments Thu, 02 May 2013 19:34:12 +0000 http://richmondmom.com/?p=41395 I shared recently what inspired me to create this blog–my daughter’s fall and subsequent head injury when she was an infant.

My first "official" property of Richmondmom.com, where it all started.

My first “official” property of Richmondmom.com, where it all started.

Today, I’ll share with you another difficult message–I am handing over the reigns of Richmondmom.com to new owners effective immediately, with thirty days built in for me to help ensure a successful transition.

1.5 Million page views, nearly half a million unique visitors and five years later, I feel really positive about handing over my “fourth baby” to proud new blog parents Brian Roome and Christa Donohue, owners of Carytown maternity store Hip to Be Round. They’re in the perfect spot to introduce this blog to brand-new Richmond parents and expand our readership even more.

Many folks don’t realize that I have a full-time job and juggling the two and spending time with my family have been a struggle, mainly because I try to act perky when I’m dropping balls all over the place. So this is a good thing for all of us.

You’re not rid of me yet, though. I love what this blog has become–the connections that are made, the people that have met because of it, the amazing clients who have trusted us to partner with their brands to bring our readers the very best in Richmond.

I can’t let go completely, so I’ll be staying on as a writer as long as I’m welcome.

This decision hasn’t come lightly. As I sit typing this at the very laptop pictured here–keys missing, a substance that I’m pretty sure is laffy taffy from the kids on the screen–I’m struggling to express exactly how much the WordPress world we’ve created here has brought to me.

Here are just a few treasured memories:

Over the Edge for Special Olympics

Going to great heights for Special Olympics

-I got to jump off buildings- 24 stories, that is.

-Forced, I had to spend an entire night with hunky men three years in a row for the Pink Tie Gala, auctioning them off for charity. It was a tough job, but . . .

-Circumcision became the center of my life for three full days while the blog was swarmed with hundreds

wheeee!

wheeee!

of readers weighing in on all things penis-related, and inspired the satirical post Haters Gonna Hate (Bloggers like Me.)

-Riding at full speed in a Nascar pace car. And I thought I had a lead foot.

-Writing and reading about countless Richmond women who inspire and amaze me–I love our Rockstars.

-My middle child affectionately developed his own hashtag in the Richmond Twitter community as #Devilboy.

-The Richmond Comedy Coalition asked me to do Improv with them as part of their “Richmond Famous” series–tons of LOL’s.

You've likely seen a lot of these little faces--they are my favorite "job"

You’ve likely seen a lot of these little faces–they are my favorite “job”

-I was lucky enough to share my dad with you, even though he died when I was fifteen, he still kind of lives on through the blogosphere–something he never could have imagined. I’ve written tons about my kiddos and about my mom, too–super-proud of her.

-Two books! Richmond Rocks and the Spooky Sequel. I’ll be able to focus a bit more on those now, doing readings at local schools & raising funds for PTA’s and non-profits.

-Business owners started coming to me for advice on building something great–really, me? So I started another blog to share some of what I’ve learned.

-Heated conversations, lol’s and watching our readers jump in to help each other daily in our Richmondmom.com Junkies Facebook Group.

Our team at the Chevy SXSW Welcome Party, tired but accomplished!

Our team at the Chevy SXSW Welcome Party, tired but accomplished!

-Getting to do a little cameo in a fun I Love RVA video.

Richmondmom Team 2012

The blogging powerhouse!

-Chevy let a few pals and I drive from Richmond to Texas on the ultimate girls’ road trip to SXSW  and blog about it (super-fun video by my friend Trevor Dickerson detailing our shenanigans below).

-Getting to work with a team of creative, sassy, fabulous writers led by the amazing Rhonda Day and many clients, many of whom I’m lucky to call friends.

One of my favorite Rumi quotes reads, and I agree:

“Wear gratitude like a cloak and it will feed every corner of your life.”

 

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart for making this blog something I’ll forever be proud of, and for helping me to find my voice.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Click here to view the embedded video.

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Announcing our 2013 Richmond Supermom Winner http://richmondmom.com/2013/05/01/announcing-our-2013-richmond-supermom-winner/ http://richmondmom.com/2013/05/01/announcing-our-2013-richmond-supermom-winner/#comments Wed, 01 May 2013 05:54:25 +0000 http://richmondmom.com/?p=41378 medarvaCongrats to Michelle Colo Burdiss who had the most unique votes and is our 2013 Richmond Supermom! Read her nomination and those of the many other amazing women nominated here.

Thanks to Medarva at Stony Point Surgery Center for sponsoring this amazing tribute to Richmond moms.

Prizes include over $3,000 of great local swag including a celebration for Michelle and her friends at Brio Tuscan Grill at Stony Point Fashion Park on May 8th, 2013 at 6:00-7:30pm.

 ______________

Prizes are subject to change with many thanks to our generous sponsors, and Michelle will receive: 

Gardner Grins 2013Gardner & Jones Orthodontics – $500 off one full case of braces, Invisalign, or Invisalign Teen for a child or an adult!

Hayes and Fisk The Art of PhotographyHayes & Fisk $500 gift certificate

The Wine Loft Richmond VAThe Wine Loft – A wine and Cheese tasting for 6 people valued at $250

Richmond Symphony logoRichmond Symphony – Family four pack of tickets valued at approximately $200. The tickets will be for Sunday, May 19 at 3 pm. Pixar in Concert. The magic of 13 Pixar films on a BIG screen with scores played live by the Richmond Symphony. It’s a uniquely magical experience.

Massage Envy SpaMassage Envy – A one-hour Massage and 1-hour Healthy Skin Facial worth $166

Health FocusHealth Focus – 90 minute microcurrent facial rejuvenation ($139 value).

Richmond Rocks Spooky SequelKate Hall: Richmond Rocks – 5 books to winner; 1 to each of two runners up – Value $105

Thank you nTelos!

nTelos – 2 tickets to see The Avett Brothers at the nTelos Wireless Pavilion in Portsmouth on June 22 – Value $100

Gundlach & Co. Plumbing and Heating Richmond VA

Indulgence SalonIndulgence Salon & Boutique in Ashland and Gundlach Plumbing & Heating.   Monique of Indulgence and the sisters from Gundlach are giving a joint gift certificate for $100.00 for the Salon.  They have a beautiful boutique, hair styling, message therapy, facials, manicures and pedicures and wonderful facials.  They also have several types of tanning and the new spray tanning service.

VA Eye Institute 

Virginia Eye Institute – a $100 gift certificate to our optical shops

Atkins-Maestrello-Miller & Associates Pediatric DentistryAtkins, Maestrello, Miller & Associates – Sonicare toothbrush worth $99

The Science Museum of Virginia

 

Science Museum of Virginia - One year family membership valued at $99

 

 

Affiliated Dermatologists

 

Affiliated Dermatologists of Virginia – $90 gift of a 60 minute European facial

 

spirited artSpirited Art – 2 seats at an art class worth $70

VHS, 428 North Boulevard, Richmond, VA (next to the Fine Arts Museum)VHS, 428 North Boulevard, Richmond, VA (next to the Fine Arts Museum) – One year membership to the Virginia Historical Society valued at $72.

college nanniesCollege Nannies – 4 hours of nanny care worth $70

Lollipops Romp n Roll vert color (2)Romp n’ Roll – One free week of summer camp –  ”week” is Tues/Thurs from 9am-noon or 2pm-5pm – $65

B7407-1_OYSweetSimpleMomentsGod_finalSweet & Simple Moments with God Devotional (release scheduled for 9/2013) – Kim Newlen, local Richmond author and Founder of Sweet Monday is giving the winner and 2 runners-up a gift certificate for signed copy of new devotional book when it is released in September – Value is $50.

Frostings 2013Frostings – One dozen delicious cupcakes – $30

Carin Casey

Granny Babysits the Mischievous FiveGranny Babysits The Mischievous Five(retail value $23.95) to the winner, and the runner up receives My Dear Rosa Jean(retail value $14.95) by Carin Casey

thebarreboutiqueThree (3) classes at the Barre Boutique worth $50!

sweet frogSeven (7) free yogurt cards at Sweet Frog – one for every day of the week! Value of $35.

CinebistroLogoTwo free movie ticket vouchers to Cinebistro at Stony Point Fashion Mall worth $26.

 

Fruit 66A gift basket from Fruit 66 valued at $25.

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Join Us For FREE Outdoor Fun at This Month’s Mommy & Me http://richmondmom.com/2013/04/24/join-us-for-free-outdoor-fun-at-this-months-mommy-me/ http://richmondmom.com/2013/04/24/join-us-for-free-outdoor-fun-at-this-months-mommy-me/#comments Wed, 24 Apr 2013 14:05:29 +0000 http://richmondmom.com/?p=41236 Mommy & Me Willow Lawn Richmond VAJoin Richmondmom.com at this month’s Willow Lawn’s Mommy & Me, which will be held outside at The Shops at Willow Lawn on Wednesday, May 8th from 10:00 am to 11:30 am, for some free outdoor fun with the kids!  Children’s performer Steven Courtney will be providing entertainment and area vendors will be handing out crafts and treats for the kiddos.  As always, our own Richmond Mom Katie Mardigian will be there, so stop by and say hello!.

Be sure to register at the white Mommy & Me tent to have the chance to win one of Kate Hall’s popular children’s books, Richmond Rocks! and The Spooky Sequel!

Stop by for some of the best FREE kids’ entertainment in all of Richmond!

Mommy and Me is held the second Wednesday of each month from 10:00am – 11:30am and is great family fun for kids, moms, dads and grandparents, so join us each month at The Shops at Willow Lawn.

Willow Lawn Mommy & Me

Don’t miss this FREE morning out with live entertainment and activities designed to enhance parent’s interaction with their children!

]]> http://richmondmom.com/2013/04/24/join-us-for-free-outdoor-fun-at-this-months-mommy-me/feed/ 0 Vote Here for our Richmondmom.com 2013 Supermom! http://richmondmom.com/2013/04/17/vote-here-for-our-richmondmom-com-2013-supermom/ http://richmondmom.com/2013/04/17/vote-here-for-our-richmondmom-com-2013-supermom/#comments Wed, 17 Apr 2013 13:34:14 +0000 http://richmondmom.com/?p=40981 Vote here for one of the amazing Richmond moms who have been nominated for the 2013 Richmond Supermom Contest!

medarvaThanks to Medarva at Stony Point Surgery Center who is our sponsor for this contest once again. And they’re donating a Botox treatment for one facial area worth $240 to our winner too!

1) Click here or on ANY link below to vote for a SuperMom (all links go to the same contest survey) Nominees with first names beginning with A-M are listed in Question 2 of the survey. Nominees with first names beginning with N-Z are in Question 3 of the survey.

2) Voting occurs from 4/17-4/30, and each individual may only vote once in this contest. Why? We realize folks don’t have time to vote multiple times, and don’t want to take up time for our voters. So once is it, and we don’t count duplicate votes. We do not add anyone to our email list unless they opt-in, nor do we send mail so your privacy is protected!

3) The winner will be announced on 5/1/12, and she may invite 20 friends to celebrate with her at our SuperMom Celebration at Brio Tuscan Grill on May 8th, where she’ll be treated to the amazing bunch of prizes below. (Actual prizes and amounts may vary based on each advertiser’s discretion.)

 

_________________

And without further ado, the 2013 Richmond Virginia SuperMom Nominees in alphabetical order by FIRST NAME are:

Alicia Wilburn                             Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

I have had the privileged of knowing Alicia for the last 2.5 years. She is one amazing woman. She is a massage therapist who specializes in fertility and prenatal care, which I know for her has been especially hard since her spouse and her have struggled to conceive again. She also works as a doula, you can tell she really loves what she does because she just glows when she talks about anything birth-related. Last year her husband was diagnosed with a serious heart problem and is currently awaiting correct surgery. Due to his substantial medical problems he had to retire. You would think this would stress her out, but I have not seen her frown once through this all. I can not even really put into words how amazing she is; but i do know this the Richmond area is better off because we always need talented caring women like her around!

Amber Mattice Elliott                      Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

Amber Elliott is the most deserving Richmond mom for this award! She is not only a Registered Nurse at MCV, but she is the mother to 2 young children and caregiver to her husband. Her husband was diagnosed with MS in 2008 and his condition has progressively worsened. At just 38 years old, he can only walk with a cane, is unable to work, cannot drive, and is no longer responding to medication. Amber works night shifts full-time at MCV so she can be home days with her husband and children.  Amber helps raise money for MS and other non-profits in many local events. She is an outstanding nurse and her patients and their families love her - and she is a loyal friend to those who know her, never hesitating to help them too. She NEVER complains or asks for help and she spends 100% of her waking hours taking care of someone else. She is totally deserving of this Richmond Supermom title – whether she wins this contest or not, she is definitely a Supermom, Superwife, and a Superfriend!

April Michelle Davis                               Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

April Michelle Davis is a business owner and a mom. April established her business, Editorial Inspirations, in 2001, and she is a freelance editor, indexer, and proofreader. In 2008, her son was born–a month early. While she was in the hospital because her water had ruptured, but she wasn’t yet having contractions, she was writing holiday cards to her clients and finishing up other tasks to prepare for the birth of her son. April cut back on the number of clients and projects she works on at one time, and he son now stays home with her. April homeschools her son, and they have been learning Spanish since he was 1.5 years old. Her son is a very dependent child; he loves to read, do math, and play with his Mama. April works for her clients when her son sleeps, so she gets little to no time to herself. April is a wonderful mother and wife. She is always working to keep her family in check, on time, and fed. Her house may be a mess, but that just shows what her priority is–her family.

Ashley Porter                                                       Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

Being a new mother of two is a full time job. But what if you have 10+ hour shifts as a nurse on top of it? My wife is definitely a Richmond Supermom. When she was pregnant with our daughter last year, she worked on her feet at the hospital almost up to her due date. Then, after the baby was born, she cut her pregnancy leave short because they needed her back at the hospital. But that didn’t stop her from breastfeeding our daughter – she managed to slip in some pump breaks just so she could avoid formula as long as possible. To top it all off, my income was cut in half last year. We also recently moved into a new house. The combination of my unexpectedly lower income and all the new expenses put us on a shoestring budget.

Betsy Williams                                                   Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

I have known Betsy for over 10 years, as a client and a friend.  She is the kindest, most genuine person I know.  In addition to the many charitable organizations that she volunteers for, she is the #1 champion for her kids.  Betsy was diagnosed with breast cancer last year; when she told me, I could only wonder how a woman who is meant to be on this earth to set an example for others could be stricken with this disease.  I still wonder.  Not long after the diagnosis, I attended a fund-raiser for victims of domestic violence, and there was Betsy-wearing a fabulous wig, battling a dreadful disease, but more concerned with the welfare of others–no surprise at all.  I have chatted with some of her friends about this, and we all agreed, after she beats this disease, she will no doubt become a passionate advocate for other women suffering from breast cancer.  I feel sorry for the cancer-it had no idea who it’s dealing with-Betsy is truly the most  caring and genuine women I have ever met.

Beverly Hires                                                      Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

My mother, Beverly Hires is most deserving of the Richmond’s 2013 Supermom Award.  Not only is my mother an unbelievable mom, best friend and role model, she is a hands-on “Nana of 5″ and the most selfless person I know.  She is always putting others first.  On August 8, 2011, my mother donated one of her kidneys to save my husband’s life.  My husband was in renal kidney failure living on 1 kidney at 12% efficiency.  My mom, without hesitation, offered to donate one of her kidneys to save his life.  We will never be able to thank my mother enough for the selfless act of kindness.  I strive daily to be the mother my mom is to me to my children.  I am lucky to call her my mother; she deserves the world.  Please consider Beverly Hires for the Richmond’s 2013 Supermom Award.  Thank you!

Carolyn Mustain                                                  Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

I’m proud to nominate my wife for Supermom. As we raised two sons, Carolyn filled many volunteer slots: homeroom mom, PTA, team mom, chaperone, chauffeur, club sponsor and party hostess for birthdays, holidays, and more. She can innovate, renovate or repair whatever is broken: toilets, toys, and hearts. When her sister died, she adopted surrogate mode for her sister’s teens. She encouraged, comforted, and became whatever-you-need-I’m-here for them, and now for their children as well. Carolyn draws people into her motherly orbit with hospitality, humor and love. Our home was a gathering spot for our sons’ friends (sometimes still is!) As kids, she hosted play dates. As teens, Carolyn hosted hungry kids, sometimes more than 100! Routinely kids gathered in our TV room, ate snacks, and named her “Cookie Mom.” Several proclaimed themselves third son. Even breast cancer didn’t stop our supermom. She had surgery, chemo, and simultaneously wrote a book. She deserves Supermom of the Century!

Haylee Douglas                                                                     Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

Haylee is a hard working mom, nurse and wife.

Isabel Shealy                                                                            Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

She does everything. She has a husband, 2 kids and a dog. She is a CAREGIVER. She takes cares of everyone around her, including her in laws, uncle, niece and nephew. She has the perfect house (it looks like from a design magazine) and is very organized. She always finds the time to volunteer in different organizations such as: the kids schools, where she has been from room mother to Director of the board; Church, where she teaches Sunday school or any other program. She is the best cooker and is never afraid to try a new recipe despite she doesn’t always know the ingredients or is familiar with the process. She is a doula by nature not by training. She coached and helped her sister in the process of two natural births. She shares all that she has (even money) with all people around her, but specially with her family. She always looks stylish, does her hair, wears make up and has the best [out]look between her girlfriends. She really deserves the super mom award!

Janice LeSueur                                                                       Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

My mom has supported us through the unthinkable.She kicked cancer’s butt in 2009. After her own battle with breast cancer, I started having issues with my hydrocephalus, a condition in which the ceriabal spinal fluid does not drain. My mom supported me through 12 brain surgeries, countless ER Trips, 20  hospital admissions, hundreds of catscans and MRI’s , and too many doctor appointments to count just in the last three years. After all of this hell our family has been through in the past five years, it’s now time to reward my momma for putting up with all of this.

Jenni Bagley                                                                          Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

I am nominating my wife, Jenni, for Supermom Award. Jenni is a US Army wife currently playing the roles of mommy and daddy while I am deployed to Afghanistan. She works 40+ hours a week all the while taking care of our 8 month old daughter in my absence. My wife had surgery on her foot and she is actually doing everything on one good foot, which is pretty super to me.  I am grateful for all she does for our baby girl. I am thankful my daughter has a great mommy who loves and nurtures her on a daily basis. I cannot imagine how difficult it is raising an infant by herself. Baby girl always has what she needs and is always very stylish with my wife’s creativity. And she always makes sure to take pictures of our baby girl so I can see her grow while I am deployed. My wife works from sun up to sun down all on her own and that is why she should win Richmond’s 2013 Supermom award.

Jennifer Morris                                                                   Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

Jennifer certainly deserves to be this year’s Supermom.  Through many challenges, she wrangles three kids, manages serious health issues, and wrestlers with public officials! All with a fun spirit that makes me smile just thinking about it.

Jennifer Tate Crowder                                                   Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

Jennifer juggles a busy schedule (like many moms). She has a very bright and active 3-1/2 year old daughter.  She and her husband both work in education.  She is the Director of School Counseling at a Henrico Co. high school, while her husband is the Student Activities Director at a high school in Hanover County.  The nature of their jobs creates many evening activities for which they are responsible. She handles the pressure with grace and calm.  She is always available to her parents and in-laws when there is a problem or health crisis.  Since she lives in Beaverdam, she spends countless hours behind the wheel commuting to school as well as to the home of her parents in Mechanicsville. She always puts herself at the end of the line when it comes to things like getting a hair cut, going to the doctor, etc.  She deserves to have some pampering and attention.

Jenny High                                                                           Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

My wife Jenny High deserves the Supermom Award, because she is the epitome of a SUPERMOM! She is not only an outstanding wife and mother to our two children, but she is mother to many other children in our community. She has created an organization named Prom Bring It, that not only provides formal wear to the youth in the community, but provides leadership, employment resources and love. She also works a full time job. She genuinely cares about all the kids lives she touches. She has been the primary financial source for the organization. She has delivered gowns to young ladies that did not have transportation, and has also paid for young mens tuxedos out of her own pocket. She has chauffered youth to and from prom, and has also taken them shopping for school clothes when their parents were not available. My wife is a mother to all youth regardles of sex, race, religion or orientation. My wife gives from the heart and does not expect anything in return! SHE IS A SUPERMOM!

Katye Snipes                                                                       Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

Katye is a wonderful mom to two young boys and wife to her husband Mark.  However, it is her role as Administrative Assistant at The Anna Julia Cooper Episcopal School (AJCES) where Katye becomes a SuperMom to 70+ students and staff. AJCES is an independent, tuition-free, faith-based middle school for students of limited resources primarily from Richmond’s East End.  AJCES is a beacon of hope in one of Richmond’s poorest neighborhoods- Katye’s contribution has been enormous. Katye’s job description is astounding: bill payer, receptionist, volunteer coordinator, nurse, computer & copier fixer, supply orderer, record keeper…the list is endless.  She approaches every task with a willing & kind heart and a sense of grace that is immeasurable.  Perhaps her greatest gift is the support & nurturing she gives to all the students and staff alike. Katye truly mothers everyone at AJCES with a ready hug, words of encouragement and a shoulder to lean on when needed.  Everyone adores her!

Kim Brandt                                                                      Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

My wife, Kim Brandt, is the most supermom ever.  In August of 2012, our daughter Campbell was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.  This totally turned our world upside down.  Kim had to take a leave of absence from her job and become the full time care giver for our daughter.  Kim takes Campbell to VCU several times each week.  When Campbell is in the hospital, Kim spends every night by her side giving her the care that only a supermom can give.  Kim has become Campbell’s “in home teacher” keeping her ahead of schedule of her classmates.  My wife has made every effort to keep Campbell’s and our whole family’s life as “normal” as possible.  Kim juggles schedules like no other person I have ever seen.  Our home runs like a well-oiled machine even when she is in the hospital.  Kim has touched the lives of other children in the hospital, including arranging birthday presents for a little girl who was all alone on her birthday. Kim is an amazing supermom; nurse, teacher,and wife!

Mary Smith Reese                                                       Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

I am nominating my mom , she has raised myself  & my sister and brother with no help from my father since I was in 4th grade. I’m 47, we had no help from child support or the state (since that was for people who really needed it) so mom always worked multiple jobs & with the help of my grandmother she has made it all these years. I know there are lots of mothers who have done the same but my mom has never asked for a thing and has always helped others, she became a CNA later in life when her job was eliminated and now at 67 is still working. She also helped at a home with disabled people to visit with them and help with a birthday and holiday parties for the residents. Mom has helped my brother raise his child after her mother died and my sister with her battle with breast cancer. She took care of her own mother until she passed from Alzheimers and now she is helping me support my husband with his fight with kidney cancer. This is not about any kind of prize just recognition.

Michelle Colo Burdiss                                                Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

Michelle is my daughter and a stay-at-home mom of 5 beautiful children.  Michelle was an only child so seeing her with 5 children that she gave me as grandkids is wonderful.  She tries really hard to be the best mom that she can be by making sure he children have great manners and show respect to the elders.  She doesn’t allow her children to watch public TV with all of it’s commercialism.  She makes sure her family eats a healthy meal by purchasing fresh fruits and veggies and purchasing organic and all natural choices.  She special ordered her children’s Easter candy so that she could be sure it was all natural with none of the artificial dyes and junk.  She tries to have special times with each of her children individually with them taking turns going to the store with her or on outings such as a hike.  She loves photography and nature and has instilled the value of all life even bugs into her children.  They actually capture bugs that have entered their house & release them outside.

Michelle Wingo                                                                Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

My daughter has a 22 month old baby boy, and is the wildest little boy you ever seen. She gave birth to him while working a full time job as a waitress while finishing up her Accounting degree. She graduated last December when my grandson was 18 months, and now she’s a full-time Mom and works two jobs: the waitress job and she works as a tax preparer. She’s always running around doing everything for everybody and I feel that she never has time for herself, so I watch my grandson as often as I can so she can at least sleep-in once in awhile. My daughter is a Supermom and I feel like she really deserves this award!

Miqueta Johnson                                                             Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

I feel like I should be Supermom of the Year, NOT b/c of attention but for being there no matter what. When my kids’ daddy turned his back, I stepped up & showed him the woman that I am! I had my 1st child when I was in high school but I still graduated, got my own apartment & took care of her by myself. Now I’m 24 with 3 beautiful girls and it’s hard being a single mom but I get it done – from cooking, cleaning, providing, and being a Nurse without pay. Trying to balance my own life is no joke. I cry sometimes because I want better for my family. Many say they understand but they don’t because the more I ask for help, I get none in return. I couldn’t attend college because I had no dependable sitter. I recently had to leave my job for the same reason. But I still smile because GOD has my back & always has when nobody else did. Some parents need to realize material things doesn’t count in parenting. I don’t live in the best neighborhood but I raise my family the old school way & I am proud of my scholars.

Patrice Wingo                                                                          Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

My mom is a flight attendant, and all my life she has always been on a trip for 3-4 days a week. But that didn’t stop her from [attending] one athletic game growing up for my brother and me, or miss one musical concert. Sometimes she was the only parent from anybody on my teams to make it to events. Now that we children are older she is still awesome! She still flys the skys,  and makes sure she gets to New York often on a layover to visit my brother, his new wife, and their new baby on the way, and when shes home she babysits my son and takes him to music class, nature class, carnivals, petting zoos, etc. While doing all that she had her own father pass away and now the care of her mother has passed into her hands that she shares the responsibilties of with her three sibilings that live in town. I feel she deserves a break sometimes that’s why for her birthday in two weeks I’m treating her to a massage, but I feel she deserves a bit more, and that will be by winning this contest.

Roneisha Mccomb                                                                  Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

My elder child is a mother of three beautiful children. She does whatever it takes to take care of them. Her age is 27, I want to share this story with you. Last October my child was homeless, she and children. The whole time she made it to class on time and worked a full time job. Being a full time student and able to work take care her kids plus passing every class is hard for the average person. She does it all help people when she can as well as me, and I haven’t worked in seven years. When I call and need anything she is always there. Doing all of this she never goes out have any fun. On top of that she is never recognized for any of the smiles or happiness she brings in people lives every day. Sometimes she’s more like my mom than my daughter. My other two daughters are in D.C and she is the one that brings everybody together. I love her and recognize her as God’s angel. I would just like the whole world to recognize my angel to0.

Sarah Graves                                                                            Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

I am nominating my Wife, Sarah Graves. She & I will have been married for 10 years this June. We have been trying to get pregnant for a majority of that time & although fun, proved to be unsuccessful. We went through several rounds IVF also. I always knew that she would be an excellent mother knowing how caring & wonderful she is. We kept our hopes up thinking it would be a matter of time still no child. This past January, quite out of the blue, we were approached by a pregnant woman who was unable to keep & raise her child. We met with her & without hesitation, decided to adopt her child. Met several times over the next 9 months & in Sept. of 2012 our son Hudson was born. In an amazing set of circumstances, we were in the room when Hudson was born & Sarah instantly became a mother after all of our trials. I didn’t know how awesome a Mom she would be until I saw it with my own eyes. She jumped right in & has all the natural gifts a mom needs. JUST INCREDIBLE! Our son & I love her.

Shannon Hubbel                                                                    Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

Shannon has continued to be a shining example of a mother who cares for and loves her family. Her daughter was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a type of cancer, in December of 2010. Shannon has two other children as well who she continues to nurture and care for – even the midst of traveling to other states for treatment for Emily’s cancer AND holding down a full time job.  Shannon is a wonderful person. She deserves recognition for all she has done for her family.

Shirley Lesser & India Lipton                                      Click on any link to vote for any nominee!

We are nominating a pair of supermoms raising a miraculous son!  Dylan was born 11 weeks premature. In his brief life, he has recovered from 3 months of sepsis & has had 12 brain surgeries. He spent 101 days in the NICU & hospitalized weeks more with all the surgeries. Through all of this, his moms have rarely left his side; India with him daily in the hospital & Shirley with him in the evening while maintaining her job.  Despite the doctors’ initial prognosis of severe disabilities, Dylan’s moms are determined to provide him with every opportunity to lead a happy & productive life. India now stays home with Dylan performing physical & developmental therapy with him several times a day. Shirley works during the day, but continues with his care and therapy at night & weekends. Born on Valentine’s Day last year, Dylan is now a very happy, seemingly healthy 1 year old! If you met Dylan today you would never know how sick he was or that he has 2 VP shunts to manage his hydrocephalus.

 Prizes are subject to change with many thanks to our generous sponsors: 

Gardner Grins 2013Gardner & Jones Orthodontics – $500 off one full case of braces, Invisalign, or Invisalign Teen for a child or an adult!

 

Hayes and Fisk The Art of PhotographyHayes & Fisk $500 gift certificate

 

 

 

The Wine Loft Richmond VA

 

 

The Wine Loft – A wine and Cheese tasting for 6 people valued at $250

 

 

 

Richmond Symphony logo

 

 

Richmond Symphony – Family four pack of tickets valued at approximately $200. The tickets will be for Sunday, May 19 at 3 pm. Pixar in Concert. The magic of 13 Pixar films on a BIG screen with scores played live by the Richmond Symphony. It’s a uniquely magical experience.

 

 

Massage Envy Spa

 

Massage Envy – A one-hour Massage and 1-hour Healthy Skin Facial worth $166

 

Health Focus

 

 

 

 

Health Focus – 90 minute microcurrent facial rejuvenation ($139 value).

 

 

Richmond Rocks Spooky Sequel

 

 

 

Kate Hall: Richmond Rocks – 5 books to winner; 1 to each of two runners up – Value $105

 

 

 

 

Thank you nTelos!

nTelos – 2 tickets to see The Avett Brothers at the nTelos Wireless Pavilion in Portsmouth on June 22 – Value $100

 

Gundlach & Co. Plumbing and Heating Richmond VA

 

 

Indulgence Salon

 

 

Indulgence Salon & Boutique in Ashland and Gundlach Plumbing & Heating.   Monique of Indulgence and the sisters from Gundlach are giving a joint gift certificate for $100.00 for the Salon.  They have a beautiful boutique, hair styling, message therapy, facials, manicures and pedicures and wonderful facials.  They also have several types of tanning and the new spray tanning service.

 

 

 

 

 

VA Eye Institute 

Virginia Eye Institute – a $100 gift certificate to our optical shops

 

Atkins-Maestrello-Miller & Associates Pediatric Dentistry

 

 

Atkins, Maestrello, Miller & Associates – Sonicare toothbrush worth $99

 

 

The Science Museum of Virginia

 

Science Museum of Virginia - One year family membership valued at $99

 

 

Affiliated Dermatologists

 

Affiliated Dermatologists of Virginia – $90 gift of a 60 minute European facial

 

spirited art

 

Spirited Art – 2 seats at an art class worth $70

 

VHS, 428 North Boulevard, Richmond, VA (next to the Fine Arts Museum)

 

 

VHS, 428 North Boulevard, Richmond, VA (next to the Fine Arts Museum) – One year membership to the Virginia Historical Society valued at $72.

 

college nannies

 

College Nannies – 4 hours of nanny care worth $70

 

 

 

Lollipops Romp n Roll vert color (2)

 

 

Romp n’ Roll – One free week of summer camp –  ”week” is Tues/Thurs from 9am-noon or 2pm-5pm – $65

 

 

 

B7407-1_OYSweetSimpleMomentsGod_final

 

 

Sweet & Simple Moments with God Devotional (release scheduled for 9/2013) – Kim Newlen, local Richmond author and Founder of Sweet Monday is giving the winner and 2 runners-up a gift certificate for signed copy of new devotional book when it is released in September – Value is $50.

 

 

 

Frostings 2013

 

 

Frostings – One dozen delicious cupcakes – $30

 

 

Carin Casey

Granny Babysits the Mischievous Five

 

 

 

Granny Babysits The Mischievous Five(retail value $23.95) to the winner, and the runner up receives My Dear Rosa Jean(retail value $14.95) by Carin Casey

 

 

 

thebarreboutique

 

 

 

Three (3) classes at the Barre Boutique worth $50!

 

 

 

sweet frog

 

 

 

Seven (7) free yogurt cards at Sweet Frog – one for every day of the week! Value of $35.

 

 

CinebistroLogo

 

 

 

Two free movie ticket vouchers to Cinebistro at Stony Point Fashion Mall worth $26.

 

Fruit 66

                                   A gift basket from Fruit 66 valued at $25.
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Richmond Rocks! Colonial Trail Elementary School (The Spooky Sequel) http://richmondmom.com/2013/04/15/richmond-rocks-colonial-trail-elementary-school-the-spooky-sequel/ http://richmondmom.com/2013/04/15/richmond-rocks-colonial-trail-elementary-school-the-spooky-sequel/#comments Mon, 15 Apr 2013 22:19:12 +0000 http://richmondmom.com/?p=40934 At Kate Hall’s Richmond Rocks! author visit at Colonial Trail Elementary School last year (in honor of National Libraries Month), she asked the kids, “If we were to do a sequel, what would you like it to be about?”

No brainer – ghost stories! And that was the inspiration for Richmond Rocks! The Spooky Sequel.

So here Kate is a year later, on “Drop Everything and Read Day”, proudly presenting the book that the Colonial Trail kids helped inspire. Once again, the Colonial Trail kids were an enthusiastic (and polite) audience, and there was an energetic Q&A session afterwards.Colonial Trail ES 2013

Here are some of our favorite questions from the session:

Are all of these ghost stories true?

According to the research resources, yes!

Did you draw the pictures too?

No. Knox Hubard, the talented illustrator of Richmond Rocks!, also illustrated The Spooky Sequel.

What’s your favorite library?

It’s so hard to choose just one! They all have so much to offer!

Are you ever going to write a chapter book?

Hmmm, that’s an idea!

How old are you? Maybe twenty-five?

Good guess! (Wink!)

Big shout-out to Rachel Brown, the school librarian! The Colonial Trail library will be receiving a percentage of book sales from this event as a fundraiser.

Colonial Trail ES 2103 2

 Would you like to have a free author visit and fundraiser for your school? Contact Suzanne Sherif at [email protected] for more information.

 

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