HAPPY WEEKEND TO YOU!

and to me too! i am so excited for our weekend plans. we are taking little gemma bird to her very first concert and her second one too. we're taking this family of birds to see devandra banhart tonight. we love him and play his records all the time.

then on saturday night we are taking the fam to see my kiddo's very favorite band of the moment, edward sharpe and the magnetic zeros. they are so excited to dance and sing along to their favorite songs.

it's sure to be a memorable weekend for all of us. we ordered little gemma a pair of baby headphones to protect her tiny ears and we have ear plugs for the kiddo's.

i know that a lot of parents have considerations on taking small children to shows, but i am proof that it can be done and can be done successfully. i was practically raised at concerts. my mom was kind of a groupie. here are some tips for taking little ones along for the experience:

• make sure it's a non-smoking venue.
• make sure there are two adults. one for potty breaks and water runs and the other to stay with the ones that are watching the show and to save seats and spots. 
• make sure everyone, including the adults, are well fed and well rested. we all know that if you have a hungry or tired child it's just no fun no matter where you are. 
• bring a few snacks, water and/or baby bottles for the little guys. 
• bring ear protection. you've gotta protect those tiny ear drums.
• have a little family meeting before hand and go over any rules you want to make such as, stay together at all times, etc. 
• if you're bringing a small baby make sure the diaper bag is well stocked.
• bring a baby sling or carrier so the baby is on you at all times.
• watch your kids. (kind of a no brainer.)
• don't drink a bunch of booze. (another no brainer.)
• keep your cell phones on.
• write your cell number on the back of your kiddos hands (just incase) they get lost and need to call you.
• let them have fun. let them dance. let them clap their hands and cheer as loud as they want. it's fun!
• enjoy the show!!!

music is wonderful and something we all should enjoy, young and old!
xoxo.

footnote: my first concert was the grateful dead at the age of 4. we hung out with the band after the show at their cabin and bobby weir signed my michael jackson t-shirt. i still have it. what was your first concert?