Visual arts

Talkback tales

Lynn Trimble learns more about a play that tackles art and Jewish identity by attending a post-show talkback -- then shares a bit of what she discovered with our readers.

More art, less homework

Scottsdale writer Lynn Trimble -- a mom of three grown children who've experienced public/charter schools, private schools and home education -- considers the many opportunities her children have missed through the years due to time consumed by evening and weekend homework.

Art & identity

Imagine a work of theater so profound it actually makes you want to tackle household chores so you can enjoy a bit of guilt-free time to yourself. Lynn Trimble shares a bit about the work that left her practically giddy about doing laundry and dishwashing on Saturday.

Spoiled in Scottsdale?

Lynn Trimble reflects on charges that folks who live in Scottsdale are spoiled somehow. See what you think, after reading tales of the Scottsdale adventures on tap for Lynn and daughter Lizabeth this weekend.

More contests for kids

Stage Mom Lynn Trimble goes in search of contests that encourage students to write, paint, dance and get creative in all sorts of ways -- and finds enough info for two companion posts about contests for kids.

Contests for kids

I had some fun with my 17-year-old daughter Lizabeth the other day after we checked out a picture posted on the Heard Museum's website,...

From bash to gala

Whether your tastes run to intimate events featuring performing youth, elegant galas complete with champagne and art gallery offerings, or outdoor golf tournaments followed by lunch and awards, you'll find something to love as Valley theater companies present spring fundraisers to support education, youth outreach and more. Many feature silent and live auctions perfect for finding unique teacher, birthday, anniversary and holiday gifts.

Art adventures: Roosevelt Row

Lynn Trimble and her college-age son Christopher recently enjoyed a walk through part of "Roosevelt Row" in downtown Phoenix -- and took plenty of photos to give you a feel for the many forms art takes in this historic neighborhood. This weekend is the perfect time to explore the downtown Phoenix art district for yourself as Artlink Phoenix presents "Art Detour 23."

We ♥ teachers

Empathizing with teachers who feel overworked and underappreciated, Lynn Trimble shares news of a Valley museum offering free admission for teachers and home educators this month.

Ireland meets Japan

As wearers of the green celebrate St. Patrick's Day, all of our hearts go out to the people of Japan. It turns out both...

Plays on Jewish identity

Lynn Trimble explores two vastly different works dealing with Jewish identity and the nature of being an artist -- one presented by Actors Theatre of Phoenix and another presented by the Arizona Jewish Theatre Company. "See both," suggests Trimble, "because different is good."

Thoughts of Japan

In the aftermath of Japan's devastating disaster, Lynn Trimble shares memories and pictures of time spent at the Japanese Friendship Garden in Phoenix -- and considers ways families can get involved in helping the people of Japan.

Get a Q!

Lynn Trimble and her daughter Lizabeth enjoy a typical Saturday -- complete music, dance, theater, art and volunteer work. So which of the Valley's many events strike their fancy this weekend?

Seeing red

Lynn Trimble and daughter Lizabeth are "seeing red" after learning of the 2011-2012 season recently announced by Arizona Theatre Company -- which features all sorts of works Lizabeth will have to miss while she tackles her freshman year of college as a theater arts major.

A work in progress

Friday will find students at Carl Hayden Community High School in Phoenix working with teacher Trish Galindo Kiser and playwright James Garcia on vignettes they'll be presenting later this month at a free event titled "Performing 1070 Short-Play Festival."

Let's dance…or not

Lynn Trimble shares news of three dance performances you won't want to miss -- and promises to keep videos of her own dancing off YouTube, for now.

PARTY ARTICLES

Money Lessons from Birthday Parties

Teaching Kids the Value of Gifts & Gratitude Between the cake, balloons, and wrapping paper tornado, birthday parties are often all about fun, but they also provide the perfect opportunity to teach kids early lessons...

Time to Paw-ty

Celebrating your favorite furry friend Call me crazy, but when my husband and I adopted our first dog together, we threw her a birthday party complete with cake, streamers, guests, appetizers, games, and more. Was...

Unique Ways to Host a Joint Birthday Party

My brother and I have birthdays that are just one day apart—his on March 3rd, mine on March 4th, and our oldest brother just a few weeks later on March 21st. Fast forward 31 years...

Out-of-the-box Birthday Party Ideas in Phoenix & Tucson

Wanting to do something a little extra special for your child’s next birthday party? Maybe it’s a milestone birthday—like turning double digits or entering the teen years. Or perhaps your child has requested to...

Birthday Traditions & Clever Theme Ideas

Childhood birthdays are unlike any others. I have fond memories of waking up on my birthday morning anticipating all the fun that was in store. With three kids who had birthdays all in the same...

Out-of-the Box Birthday Party Ideas

Wanting to do something a little extra special for your child’s next birthday party? Maybe it’s a milestone birthday—like turning double digits or entering the teen years. Or perhaps your child has requested to...

Party Etiquette

Whether you’re hosting a party or attending one, you may be wondering—do people really RSVP anymore? What about goodie bags, are those still a thing? Do I need to stay with my child at...

How to Throw a Birthday Party that Won’t Break the Bank

I remember the days when birthday parties consisted of colorful balloons, streamers, a simple cake, and the classics like musical chairs and tag with a few friends. Times have changed and suddenly it feels necessary...

How to do a drive-by birthday party

As we get deeper into quarantine, people have gotten creative with birthday celebrations. One result: the drive-by birthday party.

Home pool party? Hire a lifeguard!

Drowning happens silently and quickly. That’s why children are at risk even when — and sometimes especially when — adults are nearby. Even a "designated pool watcher" can avert his or her eyes for a...

Hiking birthday party

For a child who loves adventure and outdoors, turn a hike into a birthday party.
Tour de Liam, Biking birthday party theme, bike race, outdoor activites, arizona parties

Bike race birthday party

When there are lots of neighborhood friends who love to ride their bikes together, host a birthday party that feels like an official bike race.

Island birthday party

Pool parties are popular in Arizona. Make a stylish upgrade at your next birthday party by incorporating décor and details that will transport guests from the desert to a tropical island paradise.

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