Melissas Bargains

As I write this post this morning, it is with a heavy heart.  My mind is still spinning as I try to make sense of the unthinkable and I mourn with the families who lost their loved ones yesterday.

Yesterday, I watched the clock move ever so slowly until 4 p.m. came around and I knew that I would be able to pick up my two children.  I spent the night last night just hugging them and being with them and knowing how fortunate I was while 20 other families were forever changed yesterday.

Fortunately, my children had not heard anything about yesterday’s events.  They are both so young and I didn’t want to have to try to answer questions that I cannot answer myself.  If your children are asking questions or you feel that you need to discuss yesterday’s events with your children, here are some resources that may help:

National Association Of School Psychologists:  Tips for Helping Children Cope

At a time when something so inhumane has occurred, I found some comfort in this article–> 26 Moments that Restored our Faith in Humanity this Year

I plan to spend the day again with my kids trying to remember what is good in this world and focusing on the reason for this holiday season.  If you were affected directly by yesterday’s events, my heart and prayers are with you.

If you plan to spend the day with your family, here are some family friendly events you can take advantage of:

If you have a Bass Pro Shop in your area and you haven’t been to Santa’s Wonderland yet, you have to check it out!  It’s a highlight for my kids every year!

Bass Pro Shops – Santa’s Wonderland is now open until December 24th!  There are FREE games, activities and crafts as well as a FREE picture with Santa.

AC Moore – check back for free family fun events

Apple Stores – Check your local store for weekly workshops and youth programs.

Jo-Ann Fabric & Craft Stores – Free demos every Saturday, check your store here for more details.

Lakeshore Learning – Saturday, December 15th from 11-3 pm, kids can make a Polar Bear Pencil Holder

Lowes Build and Grow – There is no class this week.  The next class will be on Saturday, January 12th at 10 a.m. A free apron, goggles and patch are included with the class.  Register for this class as well as other future classes here.

Michael’s Crafts – Saturday, December 15th from 11-noon, Glass Paint Demo

Microsoft Stores – Check your local store for classes and special events for the whole family.

Pottery Barn Kids -Tuesday’s from 11-11:30am, Story Time.

Target – select a city to find free or reduced-price admission to arts and cultural events in your area, sponsored by Target.

The Home Depot – See Adult Weekly workshops here. (Landscape Design, Lawn Maintenance, Install Vinyl Flooring)

Toys R Us – Sunday, December 16th from 12-2 p.m., Barbie Bike Bling It Demo. You can bling out your bike in so many ways! Come in store to learn about the Bling It Barbie Bike and all the fun ways to customize your own handlebar bag! Plus, get an additional Bling It Kit and Ride with Me Mini Bike for your favorite Barbie doll for FREE with any Barbie-themed kids bike purchase!*

Walmart Event Finder – enter your zip code to see what is going on in your area.

Get a heads up on all of the current freebie offers!  Sign up for Woman Freebies here–> Woman Freebies (I’ve been a member for a year now and don’t get junk mail!)

See all my current freebie posts here–> Freebies