Hello All-
For those who know me, you are aware that I like to eat. Thankfully, my husband also shares this "interest" and Hannah is great at trying new things. We've been told that we go out a fair amount, and that we find places that locals haven't ever been to before, so I thought I'd share some of our adventures with all of you.
First up is a local hangout of ours, Care-It Deli. This place is special to us, since we signed the papers for our new house while having lunch there!! We opt for the Hamptons location since it is right around the corner, but they also have a location in Crestwood.
Feeding folks since 2008, Care-It is the perfect balance of old favorites with local ingredients. Not only can you pop in for a soup and sandwich, but they also offer meals to go, and various deli selections. When Hannah and I go together, we like to get a soup and sandwich combo with two drinks. We have found that 1/2 of a Ham and Cheddar sandwich is just enough for Hannah, and the other half, plus a cup of soup is just enough to fill my belly!!
I have often told my husband that I love to try new things if I know that the restaurant I'm at will "do it right." Thanks to Care-It, I have found a love for various soups, including Cream of Tomato and Squash and Ham, all because they know how to "do it right." In all honesty, I now crave their soups on cold days, and have been inspired to try my hand at soup making at home.
Though we haven't explored their deli selections too much, we have purchased their bacon (yum!) and we recently gave their Butter Chicken and Turkey Meatball Carbonara & Fettucinne take out meals a try. All were beyond delicious!!
If you're in the neighborhood and looking for a place that will offer you generous portions, great prices and local specials, give Care-It a try. You won't regret it!
Happy Eating!
Sharon
Showing posts with label Edmonton. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Edmonton. Show all posts
1.23.2012
1.22.2012
All Around Town: Ice Palace Figure Skating Club
Hello All-
I thought I'd catch up with a few "All Around Town" posts. We've been settling in more and more lately, so I figured it was time to share what we've been up to.

Three Saturdays ago, Hannah started a new activity, ice skating lessons. We had looked into a few programs, and finally decided on the CanSkate program, offered through the Ice Palace Figure Skating Club. Hannah loves watching the children skate at the West Edmonton Mall, so the idea of being able to skate there herself was a deal sealer in what program we would pursue.
In just three short sessions, Hannah has learned how to fall properly, how to get back up on her own, and how to maneuver around on the ice. I am amazed at how quickly they pick up on the skills!! One of the things I like the best about this program is that they have several coaches on the ice at a time. As the children learn new skills, they are separated from the rest of the group. It is nice for those who learn quickly (or who have experience) so they aren't held back, but also nice for those who need a bit more one-on-one time with the instructors.
Some of the unique teaching methods used by the instructors include, writing on the ice with bingo markers, so the children can see what path they need to take. Hannah loves it when they write her name on the ice!! They also play games to encourage everyone to get moving. For example, at today's lesson, they had two identical wooden puzzles at opposite ends of their skating area. The skaters had to pick up a piece from one puzzle, then skate over and place the piece into the other puzzle. They did this several times, and by the end, most of the class was moving right along. They also took stuffed animals and each child would throw their toy, and they had to skate over to it to pick it up. The big rule was that they couldn't sit on the ice to get the toy, they had to bend down and use their balance to stay on their skates.

I should probably mention that skating is not cheap. This particular program requires that skaters wear skates with laces. In Hannah's class, there is a mix of hockey skates and figure skates. Hannah wears hockey skates, mainly because we were able to find a pair in her size, and they offered better support for her at this age. I will say that they were quite costly since her feet are so small, and our options were limited. If your child has larger feet, then the prices drop significantly for skates, and you can buy them most anywhere. We already had a helmet for Hannah that fit again this year, so our only purchase in that department was a face cage. With some recent accidents on NHL teams with players getting cut by teammates, we weren't going to take any chances. The children also tend to skate very close together, so we were worried about the domino effect and the possibility of falling on another child's skate. As for clothes, the only requirement is that they are warm and the children can move in them. Thankfully the mall rink is quite warm, so most weeks Hannah can wear most anything (she prefers fleece pants or yoga pants with a liner underneath), though a few lessons are held at the (much colder) Callingwood rinks, and we learned the hard way today that she needs to bundle up more for those lessons.
Despite getting frustrated a few times, Hannah loves this program, and as a parent, I do too!! If your child is interested in skating, I highly encourage that you check out one of the CanSkate programs offered here in Edmonton. It is well worth the money and time to have your child learn how to skate properly.
Happy Skating!!
Sharon
I thought I'd catch up with a few "All Around Town" posts. We've been settling in more and more lately, so I figured it was time to share what we've been up to.

Three Saturdays ago, Hannah started a new activity, ice skating lessons. We had looked into a few programs, and finally decided on the CanSkate program, offered through the Ice Palace Figure Skating Club. Hannah loves watching the children skate at the West Edmonton Mall, so the idea of being able to skate there herself was a deal sealer in what program we would pursue.
In just three short sessions, Hannah has learned how to fall properly, how to get back up on her own, and how to maneuver around on the ice. I am amazed at how quickly they pick up on the skills!! One of the things I like the best about this program is that they have several coaches on the ice at a time. As the children learn new skills, they are separated from the rest of the group. It is nice for those who learn quickly (or who have experience) so they aren't held back, but also nice for those who need a bit more one-on-one time with the instructors.



Despite getting frustrated a few times, Hannah loves this program, and as a parent, I do too!! If your child is interested in skating, I highly encourage that you check out one of the CanSkate programs offered here in Edmonton. It is well worth the money and time to have your child learn how to skate properly.
Happy Skating!!
Sharon
10.21.2011
All Around Town: Telus World of Science
Hello All-
If you live in the Edmonton area and you've never been to Telus World of Science, you are missing out! This place is hands down, my favorite spot in the city. My family enjoyed it so much that we bought memberships during our first visit.
Hannah is a budding scientist, so around every corner was something for her to explore. Even as an adult, I found the exhibits very interesting and I learned a lot as well. During our visit, there was a Sesame Street special exhibit all about the body. We had a blast learning with all of our favorite characters. They were also showing One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure in the Margaret Zeidler Star Theatre. Both were highlights of the trip.
Along with the Sesame Street offerings, we also had fun in the Health Gallery, Space Gallery, DiscoveryLand, and Forensics Gallery. We didn't make it to the Environment Gallery or Robotics Lab during this trip, but we look forward to them the next time. All offered hands-on exhibits for all ages and there wasn't a dull moment the entire time.
One of the upcoming exhibits to visit the museum is Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition. We saw this exhibit when it visited the Telus museum in Calgary and it is quite good. They are also currently showing Born to Be Wild in the IMAX® Theatre. Hannah and I saw this movie in 3D in Calgary at the Chinook Mall and it is fantastic! If you haven't seen it, you should add it to your To Do List!!
What's your favorite part of the museum? With goodies in every nook and cranny, I'm sure we missed some stuff and I'd love to hear your favorites!!
Happy Exploring!
Sharon
Along with the Sesame Street offerings, we also had fun in the Health Gallery, Space Gallery, DiscoveryLand, and Forensics Gallery. We didn't make it to the Environment Gallery or Robotics Lab during this trip, but we look forward to them the next time. All offered hands-on exhibits for all ages and there wasn't a dull moment the entire time.
What's your favorite part of the museum? With goodies in every nook and cranny, I'm sure we missed some stuff and I'd love to hear your favorites!!
Happy Exploring!
Sharon
10.14.2011
All Around Town: Reynolds-Alberta Museum
Hello All-
This week we venture out of the Edmonton city limits and head to Wetaskiwin and the Reynolds-Alberta Museum. If you enjoy transportation and history, this is the place for you! We visited back in early September when my in-laws were visiting town. Both my hubby and father-in-law love old cars, so this was the perfect spot to visit.
The day we went, we not only got to see the museum and the Canadian Aviation Hall of Fame, but we were also treated to the Harvest Festival, including the threshing competition. Now I know that might not sound like fun to some of you, but it was actually quite interesting. I just need to remember to bring my allergy medication for next year!!
For those of you with children, this could be hit or miss (unless you know they like transportation "stuff"). Hannah enjoyed herself, but I found myself walking around with her quite a bit looking for the various interactive displays, while the rest of our group stopped to read plaques, etc. Though, with that said, there were quite a few things for kids to check out and stay occupied, so she never seemed to get bored.
The museum is very well laid out and moves right along. The day we went they had a quilting exhibit, bread making demos and a spot where you could shake your own butter. I really liked the period costumes and the fact that they went above and beyond the typical car museum. I felt like we were learning as much about history as we were about how people moved. Hannah also loved the simulated drive in theater and the tractors that you can climb on and explore.
A short walk brought us over to the aviation building, home to the Canadian Aviation Hall of Fame. The spiderweb of planes and other aircraft was very well designed and showcased each piece nicely. A highlight was being able to get up inside a helicopter and look around.
My only complaint about the museum was the food service. Though they listed a variety of snack bar type items on their menu board, they only had a few offered that day. I don't know if they were having trouble keeping up with the large crowd, or if this is a regular issue. It also took nearly a half hour to get the grilled cheese and burger that we ordered. I would be curious to see how smoothly things run on a non-event day.
Though I am not a huge car enthusiast, I do look forward to going back again. I think this will be on the list of attractions that we bring company to. It is a nice drive and a fun place...a 10 in my book!!
Happy Exploring,
Sharon
The day we went, we not only got to see the museum and the Canadian Aviation Hall of Fame, but we were also treated to the Harvest Festival, including the threshing competition. Now I know that might not sound like fun to some of you, but it was actually quite interesting. I just need to remember to bring my allergy medication for next year!!
The museum is very well laid out and moves right along. The day we went they had a quilting exhibit, bread making demos and a spot where you could shake your own butter. I really liked the period costumes and the fact that they went above and beyond the typical car museum. I felt like we were learning as much about history as we were about how people moved. Hannah also loved the simulated drive in theater and the tractors that you can climb on and explore.
My only complaint about the museum was the food service. Though they listed a variety of snack bar type items on their menu board, they only had a few offered that day. I don't know if they were having trouble keeping up with the large crowd, or if this is a regular issue. It also took nearly a half hour to get the grilled cheese and burger that we ordered. I would be curious to see how smoothly things run on a non-event day.
Though I am not a huge car enthusiast, I do look forward to going back again. I think this will be on the list of attractions that we bring company to. It is a nice drive and a fun place...a 10 in my book!!
Happy Exploring,
Sharon
Labels:
2011,
All Around Town,
Edmonton,
exploring,
Reynolds-Alberta Museum,
Wetaskiwin
10.07.2011
All Around Town: Muttart Conservatory
Hello All-
Looking for a way to bring some color to your day? The Muttart Conservatory has got your covered!! This (not so hidden) gem is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon and forget about any dreary weather that may be lurking outside. Beneath three of the four glass pyramids are displays showcasing arid, tropical and temperate plants. The fourth pyramid is called the Feature Pyramid and during our visit it was decorated for Breast Cancer Awareness.
Though the Conservatory offers guided tours, we opted to roam around on our own. After looking at their tour schedule, I am looking forward to their orchid and Christmas tours.
One of the best features of this Edmonton attraction is that you can either pop in for a quick visit or linger for hours. We moved right along (at a pace that kept Hannah interested) and it took us about an hour to go in and out of the four pyramids. If the weather is nice, be sure to add a bit of extra time to roam the grounds and the beautiful outdoor gardens that surround the facility.
I also loved the gift shop and the attached cafe smelled heavenly!! I may have to schedule in some coffee time to my next visit as well!!
So, if you've got a case of the winter blues, the Muttart Conservatory has got your cure!!
Happy Exploring!
Sharon
An update: We went back to Muttart this weekend and the orchid display is AMAZING!!! Be sure to check it out!!!
Though the Conservatory offers guided tours, we opted to roam around on our own. After looking at their tour schedule, I am looking forward to their orchid and Christmas tours.
So, if you've got a case of the winter blues, the Muttart Conservatory has got your cure!!
Happy Exploring!
Sharon
An update: We went back to Muttart this weekend and the orchid display is AMAZING!!! Be sure to check it out!!!
9.30.2011
All Around Town: Edmonton Valley Zoo
Hello All-
It is time for another installment of All Around Town. This week we visit the Edmonton Valley Zoo. I must say that of all the attractions we've been to so far, this one was the most disappointing. I had been warned that it wasn't anything like the Calgary Zoo, but that was a big understatement. Though, after growing up in a city that didn't have any zoo, I guess something is better than nothing.
First off, the website boasts a collection of more than 350 animals, and though I didn't count each one we saw, I feel like this was a bit overestimated. To the zoo's defense, they are renovating and perhaps that contributed to the numerous empty exhibits.
Now, I have never been one to fight against zoos, as long as the animals are being cared for properly and are providing an educational resource, though I have found myself being a bit uneasy regarding the small confines that many of the animals are housed in. Mind you, I have been spoiled by visiting Zoo Miami (formally called the Miami Metro Zoo) several times over the years, and it is a cage less zoo. That's right, no cages. A series of moats separates you from the animals, and after seeing both options, I do feel that it is a more humane way to show off these creatures. There's just something about two Emus pacing back and forth in a cage all day that concerns me.
Animal rights issues aside, I must say that Hannah had a great time and wants to go back. I hope to enroll her in a few of the educational programs the zoo offers with hopes that she can learn more about the animals and their habitats. We also plan to bring a picnic lunch and try to take a ride on the train. Apparently there are pony rides and paddle boats in the high season too.
Please check out the Edmonton Valley Zoo and let me know your thoughts. I have high hopes that after a few more visits and after the renovations are completed I will become a believer.
Happy Exploring!
Sharon
Labels:
2011,
All Around Town,
attractions,
Edmonton,
Edmonton Valley Zoo,
exploring
9.27.2011
All Around Town: Jurassic Forest
Hello All-
I wanted to keep my travel posts for Fridays, but we went to a new place this weekend that I had to share as soon as possible. Tucked away about 15 minutes away from the northern edge of Edmonton is a town called Gibbons. Located in Gibbons is one of the coolest attractions I have been to in a while, Jurassic Forest.
Hubby heard about this place from a co-worker and we knew that we needed to check it out. Hannah has been telling us for quite some time that she wants to be a paleontologist when she grows up, so this was a perfect fit. Jurassic Forest is a collection of moving, roaring dinosaurs housed within a nature facility. You walk along beautiful boardwalks to view the dinosaurs, while also learning about various bugs, animals, and plants.
For children who scare easily, I wouldn't suggest visiting. The dinosaurs are quite realistic. Even Hannah had to warm up to them a bit, and she saw similar robotic dinos at the Calgary Zoo a few years back. However, if your child likes dinosaurs and wants to feel like they've stepped back in time, it is worth the trip out!
Once your walk is done, they also have a giant sandbox that has buried bones that kids can dig for and they can climb over the various skeletons. We found their gift shop to be small, but very reasonably priced. We made the most of some end of the season markdowns and we stocked up on lots of dino goodies!
I can't say that I would buy a membership to this facility, as it is a hike from our house, and I don't know how many times we'd visit in a year, but I know we'll be back next season for sure!
(Note: The park is scheduled to close on October 23, 2011 for the season, so be sure to check them out before then!!)
Happy Exploring!
Sharon
For children who scare easily, I wouldn't suggest visiting. The dinosaurs are quite realistic. Even Hannah had to warm up to them a bit, and she saw similar robotic dinos at the Calgary Zoo a few years back. However, if your child likes dinosaurs and wants to feel like they've stepped back in time, it is worth the trip out!
I can't say that I would buy a membership to this facility, as it is a hike from our house, and I don't know how many times we'd visit in a year, but I know we'll be back next season for sure!
(Note: The park is scheduled to close on October 23, 2011 for the season, so be sure to check them out before then!!)
Happy Exploring!
Sharon
9.23.2011
All Around Town: Fort Edmonton Park
Hello All-
I figured that since we are in the process of exploring our new city of Edmonton, I would share some of our discoveries with you. Recently my in-laws came to town to visit, so we were able to check out a lot of attractions right off the bat.
First up is one of my new favorite places, Fort Edmonton Park. We stumbled across the park during an afternoon of driving around the city. We knew that it was similar to Calgary's Heritage Park, another favorite place of ours, so we thought we'd give it a chance.
Going at the end of the season, we knew that some of the features of the park might not be operating, though we were pleasantly surprised that most everything was up and running the day we went. (The website now says that many of the features are indeed closed for the season).
We first hopped onto a streetcar that took us around the park. We then walked around 1885 Street, 1905 Street and 1920 Street. The time got away from us, and in an attempt to make it to the Midway before closing time, we decided to save the 1846 Fort for another day.
While at the park, we also had lunch in Johnson's Cafe. Though the menu isn't huge, they serve delicious sandwiches and soups at reasonable prices.
Finally, we ended our visit with a few rides and games on the midway. The Ferris wheel wasn't working that day, but we still had lots of fun. Hannah was a big fan of the manually operated merry-go-rounds (that were free to ride!!) and the three of us had a blast riding the beautiful full-sized merry-go-round. I also enjoyed watching the artisans carve new animals in the building just behind the ride.
All in all, we had so much fun at Fort Edmonton Park and we cannot wait until next season to visit again. For those who are looking to go before they close down for the winter, they are having a Free Admission Day this weekend, and they host several events throughout the off-season as well.
Cheers and Happy Exploring!!
Sharon
First up is one of my new favorite places, Fort Edmonton Park. We stumbled across the park during an afternoon of driving around the city. We knew that it was similar to Calgary's Heritage Park, another favorite place of ours, so we thought we'd give it a chance.
While at the park, we also had lunch in Johnson's Cafe. Though the menu isn't huge, they serve delicious sandwiches and soups at reasonable prices.
All in all, we had so much fun at Fort Edmonton Park and we cannot wait until next season to visit again. For those who are looking to go before they close down for the winter, they are having a Free Admission Day this weekend, and they host several events throughout the off-season as well.
Cheers and Happy Exploring!!
Sharon
Labels:
2011,
All Around Town,
attractions,
Edmonton,
exploring,
Fort Edmonton Park
5.25.2011
Where have I been hiding??
Good Question!!
I haven't been blogging lately since I have been so busy cleaning my house! Yup...cleaning...not traveling the world or going on some amazing adventure...just cleaning. And why have I been cleaning so much? Because hubby got transferred to Edmonton and our house went on the market today. Boo! Hiss!
I'm not happy about leaving Calgary, but the idea of a new home and new adventures is appealing. The folks in Edmonton are so nice, and I am sure that we'll settle in nicely. In the meantime, my world is filled with chasing after Hannah with the vacuum, jumping when the phone rings, and house hunting online.
So, if I am a bit sparse around here, bear with me...I'll be back!!
Oh, and if you are looking for a house in SE Calgary...let me know!!
Cheers!
Sharon
I haven't been blogging lately since I have been so busy cleaning my house! Yup...cleaning...not traveling the world or going on some amazing adventure...just cleaning. And why have I been cleaning so much? Because hubby got transferred to Edmonton and our house went on the market today. Boo! Hiss!
I'm not happy about leaving Calgary, but the idea of a new home and new adventures is appealing. The folks in Edmonton are so nice, and I am sure that we'll settle in nicely. In the meantime, my world is filled with chasing after Hannah with the vacuum, jumping when the phone rings, and house hunting online.
So, if I am a bit sparse around here, bear with me...I'll be back!!
Oh, and if you are looking for a house in SE Calgary...let me know!!
Cheers!
Sharon
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)