Merry Christmas!

I'll be taking some time off from blogging for the next few weeks to spend some much-needed down time with my son!  I would like to thank you for visiting Just Kidding Around Atlanta when you are online, either for reading or for entering contests.   2016 will bring lots of posts about our recent Florida/Disney trip, more giveaways, recipes and other fun stuff.

I hope you and your family have a blessed and memorable Christmas. May you make many special memories this Holiday season!

See you in 2016!

Giveaway:PEEPS® and PEEPS & COMPANY® #peepsholiday

Tis the season for all things sweet! Whether you’re looking to stuff stockings, top your tree or bring a smile to a loved one’s face, PEEPS® and PEEPS & COMPANY® are here to help!

David and I were excited to receive a big red box full of fun Christmas treats from PEEPS® and PEEPS & COMPANY® to check out and share with y'all.  Did you know they make chocolate mousse flavored PEEPS®?! I had no idea, but they are divine!

After we sampled a few, I got crafty with the PEEPS®.  David got to enjoy some of his favorite holiday treats, plus try a few new ones, too!  The lollipop and Holiday pop were different ways to enjoy PEEPS®.

So, here are the details on all the yumminess.... so many great flavors to try!

    PEEPS® Large Banana Crème Flavored Minion: PEEPS® introduces a new banana crème flavored marshmallow in honor of the beloved Minions characters. Three varieties of the individually packed large Minions include the likeness of Kevin, Stuart and Bob – stars of the Minions movie available on DVD this holiday season. Available only for a limited time!
·  PEEPS® Vanilla Crème Chicks Pop: Fans can celebrate holiday traditions with these four classic Vanilla Crème flavored marshmallow Chicks on a stick.
·  PEEPS® Marshmallow Minions: To celebrate the DVD release of the Minions Movie, PEEPS® created a Minion-shaped marshmallow reflecting their fun PEEPSONALITY®. The original marshmallow Minions are sure to please admirers of all ages. Available for a limited time only!
·  PEEPS® Candy Cane Flavored Marshmallow Chicks: Those who prefer their Candy Canes chicks without the chocolate can indulge in the peppermint-goodness of Candy Cane favored chicks!
·  PEEPS® Large Marshmallow Snowmen: Large, fluffy PEEPS® Brand Snowmen are fun to eat and to share! Available in one count stocking-stuffer size packages, and three count share size.
·  PEEPS® Gingerbread-Flavored Marshmallow Gingerbread Men: Now you can get the gingerbread flavor you crave all year long in something other than a cookie with PEEPS® gingerbread flavored marshmallow gingerbread men.
·  PEEPS® Marshmallow Trees: It wouldn’t be the holiday season without seeing a Christmas tree! Enjoy green PEEPS® tree-shaped marshmallow decorated with red, yellow and blue garland and topped with a star.
·  PEEPS® Marshmallow Snowmen: PEEPS® traditional sized snowmen! PEEPS® Marshmallow Snowmen are adorned with a top hat and candy cane decorations with a nostalgic look.

 · PEEPS® Chocolate Mousse-Flavored Marshmallow Reindeer: These reindeer shaped marshmallow PEEPS® are chocolate-mousse flavored and oh so delicious!
· PEEPS® Holiday Pop: This delicious marshmallow flavored pop comes with four assorted Chicks representing the holiday colors: green, red and white.

Information about the PEEPS & COMPANY® products:
· PEEPS® Plush: Cuddle up with your favorite PEEPS® this year. Perfect for stocking stuffer or under the tree and a warm surprise. Plush varieties include:  PEEPS® Gingerbread Man, PEEPS® Elf Plush Chick, PEEPS® Plush Candy Cane Chick, PEEPS® Plush Snowman.

David claimed this plush PEEP for himself - it's so soft! 

·  MIKE AND IKE® MERRY MIX Candy: Filled with 4 ounces of MIKE AND IKE candies featuring Lime, Cherry and Holiday Punch flavors, this is a great way to add a little extra sweetness to the presents you give or if you need an item on hand for a quick gift that's sure to please the sweetest people in your life.
·  PEEPS® Lollipop: A delightful handmade PEEPS® lollipop perfect for party favors, stocking stuffers, or secret Santa surprises. Available in PEEPS® Gingerbread or PEEPS® Snowmen varieties.

Some of the fun things we did with our PEEPS®....

Try the candy cane PEEPS® in your favorite hot chocolate - delish!  The candy cane PEEPS® were my favorite.  So tasty!

Mix PEEPS with your favorite candies in glass jars or vases to make adorable centerpieces for holiday meals or parties!

Or just tuck them into stockings for a delicious Christmas surprise!

Would you like to try some of these delicious treats yourself? You are in luck! PEEPS® and PEEPS & COMPANY® are giving my readers a discount code to use through 12/31.  It is valid for 20% off your next purchase on their website, no minimum required, from now through Thursday, December 31. Discount code: SWEETINGS15.

They also want to give one of my readers a prize pack featuring several of the products we sampled!  Just enter via the Rafflecopter widget below - if you don't see it, click the link to bring it up, and good luck!  (prize pack will vary from pictures, sponsor will select products to send!)

Holiday in the Park at Six Flags over Georgia

I just adore this time of year! Getting ready for Christmas, all the fun and traditions, the decorations, the music, the food..... so much good stuff packed into the last two months of the year.

We found a new holiday tradition that I can't wait to share with y'all!  Did you know that Six Flags over Georgia is open for Christmas?  It's called Holiday in the Park and it is fantastic!  We went with our friends Tiffany & Seth, and it was great fun!

First - the lights.  Oh my goodness, the park absolutely transforms once the sun sets!  There are millions of twinkling, glittery lights everywhere! And trees!  It's just beautiful.

The tree lighting was fun and a special start to our evening. After all, a Christmas-themed wonderland is not complete without a gigantic tree and ceremonial lighting. The tree will be lit by U.S. Service personnel, along with their loved ones, at 6 p.m. each night of Holiday in the Park.

There are so many areas to explore: A Main Street Christmas, Peppermint Plaza, Retro Christmas USA, Glohill, Holiday City, North Pole and more! You'll want to visit every place and see the sights!

There are plenty of rides available during Holiday in the Park, too.  My son isn't big on any thrill rides and coasters, but we did get him on the train and carousel this visit.  And I rode the Harley Quinn Spinsanity again - it's my favorite!!  It is really neat to see the park all lit up at night from the rides!

Make sure to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, and you may even see an elf or two! There are strolling carolers, holiday music, even mistletoe in front of the Monster Mansion! So make sure you stop for a kiss from someone you love.

There is plenty of yummy food and hot drinks for you to enjoy too.  S'mores, peppermint funnel cakes...you will find all kinds of sweets, and different hot cocoas - try it with Peeps marshmallows!  After your visit, you'll have to let me know your favorite treat from Holiday in the Park in the comments below.

Our favorite was the chicken and beignets. So tasty!  Plus a cup of hot cocoa with whipped cream.  David also tried the mint fudge, and cheddar popcorn - both were hits! 

I hope you and your family will take some time to check out Holiday in the Park this holiday season, and make it a part of your Christmas traditions.  It's really beautiful, and such a fun way to get your Christmas on!

To find out the complete schedule, activities, and other information about Holiday in the Park, please visit this link.

Disclaimer: Six Flags over Georgia hosted us at Holiday in the Park for an evening in order to experience the park, and write this review.  No other compensation was received. 

Perfect Holiday Read ~ I’m Happy For You (Sort Of…Not Really) #HydrateForTheHolidays #FLYBY

I wish I had a review here for you, but the USPS delivered a battered, empty envelope to my house last week.  Not sure what happened on its way to me, but I will get a replacement copy to review soon! I  wanted to get this post up asap so I can give away a copy to one of you, as well! Here is a little more about this book - I can't wait to get my hands on it!

I am excited to introduce you to blogger-turned-author Kay Willis Wyma.  Kay asks an important question: Is comparison-living hijacking your life?

Thoughts from Kay...

Tired of performing? Feeling weighed down by the pressure to be Pinteresting? Does your friend’s wardrobe, body, marriage, paycheck, vacation plans, or photoshoot-worthy home décor leave you wishing your life looked more like that? 

You’re not alone.

With its focus on smarter, faster, thinner, and ever-better, our cultural obsession with comparison is undercutting relationships and sapping contentment. Our friends become our audience (or judges), and our titles, activities, even kids become part of our brand. Factor in social media’s constant reminder of what everyone else is doing, and no wonder we feel drained, discontent, and isolated.  

Thankfully, we don’t have to live this way!

The book title says it all!! 

About I’m Happy For You (Sort Of…Not Really)

Our cultural obsession with comparison is undercutting relationships and sapping contentment. With disarming candor and humor, Kay Wills Wyma explores how to trade comparison for compassion and rediscover what life is all about.

It’s easy to get caught in the comparison games we play with our appearances, our kids, and our homes. Kay reminds exhausted families about tried and true remedies from the pressures of competitive living.

In her warm, relatable style, Kay confronts the comparison epidemic raging in our homes, our neighborhoods, and our social-media feeds, offering remedies along the way.

With candor and humor, I’m Happy For You (Sort Of…Not Really) explores the troubling effects of living in an excessively competitive culture—and reveals simple yet effective ways to escape the comparison trap.

About the Author

Kay Wills Wyma is a blogger, mother of five, and the author of Cleaning House through which she has appeared on The TODAY Show, CNN, Glenn Beck, The New York Times, Focus on the Family, and more. Before becoming a stay-at-home mom, she held positions at the White House, the Staubach Company, and Bank of America. Kay lives in the Dallas area with her husband, Jon, and their family.

Join Kay and her family as she’s started to #HydrateForTheHolidays on her blog posts to learn how to recapture contentment and joy, especially in Nov. & Dec.!!  She’ll be sharing thoughts throughout the season!

Want to read this book now?  You can purchase it from Amazon. (This is my affiliate link!)

#HydrateForTheHolidays #flyby

You can enter to win a copy of I’m Happy For You (Sort Of…Not Really) through the Rafflecopter widget below.  Make sure you complete the mandatory entries first - otherwise no other entries count.  
Thanks for stopping by! 

Giveaway: ESV Men's Devotional Bible

Can y'all believe Thanksgiving is next week?! It's gotten here so fast this year.  I am excited to be spending this holiday with my Dad and his sweet wife up in North Carolina. Lots of planning and packing going on here to get ready for our trip. (We appreciate your prayers for safe travels next week, too!)   

In the meantime - here is a really great giveaway and a short review.  Wouldn't this Men's Bible make a fabulous gift for someone on your Christmas list?

I was given a copy of this beautiful ESV Men's Devotional Bible to share with one of the men in my life. It didnt take me any time to know that I wanted my brother Jon to have it! He has only had this Bible for about a week, so he hasn't had much time to use it.  Here's what he had to say about using this Bible and what he likes most about it. 

I really like this Bible. I like the font and the size, as it makes it easier to read than the Bibles at church.  I also like the fact that the devotions put into context what you are reading and give a detailed account of the author of each devotion.  I like how it breaks up the flow of scripture.  It is very thick and heavier than most, but that is OK because of the extra info that is inside.   I haven't had a chance to read very much of it but I look forward to being able to use it more. 

I'm so happy he is enjoying this new Bible. Thanks Jon, for reviewing it for me.  

And now, some more information from the publisher:

About the ESV Men's Devotional Bible:

Our world presents daily distractions that can easily displace Christ as the center of a man's heart and life.  The goal of the ESV Men's Devotional Bible is to strengthen and encourage men through the life-giving Word of God and sound devotional content aimed at nurturing godliness.  With 365 theologically rich and gospel-centered devotions drawn directly from the Bible, this all-new resource was created under the editorial oversight of Dr. Sam Storms with contributions from over fifty Christian leaders.  Introductions orient men to each book of the Bible, exploring its unique contribution to a man's walk with God.  Thoughtful and instructive articles address the importance of sound doctrine, life in the local church, leadership, the heart, calling, and a host of other relevant issues for today.  The Men's Devotional Bible will strengthen men in their walk with Christ, helping them apply the gospel and the truths of God's Word in their homes, churches, and workplaces. 

Features:

- 365 brand-new devotions

- Brand new book introductions

- 14 brand-new articles

- Dictionary of key terms

- Ribbon marker

- Smyth-sewn binding

- Lifetime guarantee on TruTone edition

- Packaging: slipcase (TruTone), L-card (HC), permanent slipcase (Cloth over Board) 

Retail Price: $34.99
You can purchase from Crossway at the link above, or through Amazon.  (This is my affiliate link)

Propeller/FlyBy Promotions would like to give one of my readers a copy of this awesome Bible.  Enter for your chance to win via the Rafflecopter widget below.  If you don't see it, click the link and it will open up the entire post for you.  PLEASE make sure to complete both of the mandatory entries.  I hate it when Rafflecopter chooses a winner, but they didn't complete the mandatory options and are disqualified! So please make sure you do those first, then any of the optional entries you want to do, too. 

Giveaway: Stone Mountain Christmas 2015

Despite the crazy weather we are dealing with (hot, rainy, cold, rainy, windy, rainy) it's time to start thinking about Christmas!  For my family, one way we usher in the holiday season is a visit to Stone Mountain Christmas at Stone Mountain Park.  Everything there is designed to put you in the Christmas spirit!

The lights are the first thing you'll see as you enter the gate.  There are lovely snowflakes on light poles, Christmas lights on all the buildings, and don't forget to take a quick drive down Snowflake Lane. Everything is sparkling, merry and bright.   And look up - you just might spy mistletoe, so keep your honey close by!

Stone Mountain Christmas is offered on select dates from November 7 - January 3.  On those dates, check out the fun and festive Christmas Parade that delivers Santa & Mrs. Claus to Christmas Corner. You'll enjoy the performers from the shows, plus catch a glimpse of the beautiful Snow Angel!

After the parade, we always head straight to the Singalong Christmas Train.  It's a little different this year (no onscreen antics with elves - just lyrics for the songs playing). We enjoyed the selection of carols, including White Christmas, Walking in a Winter Wonderland, and other family favorites. And if you like seeing the performance of "The Gift" midway through the ride, you will really love it this year. This year was my favorite performance of all the years we've attended  - really beautiful and heartwarming.

After a fun train ride around the Mountain, we usually visit Santa, do a little shopping, and check out the characters you might see in the park.  Gingerbread Man, Rudolph, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, and even Mrs. Claus got a picture with David this year!   We love watching the glassblower at work, and looking at his beautiful glassware in the store next door. You'll also find a fantastic toy store, candy store, and a few other gift stores to visit!  You can also visit the Snow Angel, and decorate yummy cookies.

Did you know Stone Mountain Park was named by USA Today as one of the ten best places in the country to catch Santa Claus?!  My son humored me and had a quick talk and then a picture with Santa. 

Time for the 4D movie - it's right across the walkway from Santa.   This year SMP is offering Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas.  Can a handful of prehistoric misfits really save the holiday? Find out in this hilarious adventure featured in 3-D with added in-theater effects that will transport you back to the Ice Age.

The shows being offered this year include A Christmas Carol,  Forever Christmas, and Holly Jolly Cabaret.  We especially enjoyed the Christmas Carol - David got such a kick out of it!  The actors in all of the shows are great, and the music is festive. This year's new show is The Littlest Christmas Tree.  It’s Christmas Eve and the smallest tree on the lot has been passed over and is feeling low. Good thing his new friends Betty the Bunny, Sammy the Skunk and Nutty the Squirrel are there to help him see his inner worth! The tale of The Littlest Christmas Tree is sure to be a new, family favorite.

The night ends with the lovely Snow Angel flying through the courtyard and her magical snowfall, plus a fireworks finale! If your kids can stay up til 9:45 it is truly worth staying for - a really beautiful ending to a fantastic night with your family!

And finally - the food!  I must share that The Campfire Grill has some seriously good comfort food ready for you. We tried the Sausage Skillet, Pot Roast with veggies, Chicken Tenders, (they also have Fried Chicken) and a huge Cranberry Apple Salad.  Sides were mac-n-cheese, baked beans and mashed potatoes with gravy. Plus they throw their delicious yeast rolls to you!  It was all awesome, but David's favorites were the chicken and mac-n-cheese.  Mine were the yummy, tangy salad plus the pot roast and the baked beans.   I wish I'd remembered to get a picture of the yummy dessert they sent home with us. Stone Mountain's new buttery, delicious cinnamon bread is to die for!  Make sure to pick up a loaf while you are there - it's warm, gooey and oh so good!

We had such a fantastic time at Stone Mountain Christmas this year.  And we left with Christmas Spirit! I'm working on getting our trees finished up this week, and wrapping gifts.  I am determined to get things done early so I can enjoy December with my family this year - no last-minute stressing! If you are ready for a big dose of Christmas spirit and family fun, please pick a date to take your family for a fun evening at Stone Mountain Christmas!  You can find out ticket information here. However..... one lucky reader will win a family four-pack of tickets to attend!! Enter my giveaway via the rafflecopter widget below.  (Click the link if the widget isn't visible!)

Travel - Fun things to do in Kissimmee: Abracadabra Ice Cream Factory!

If you will be in Orlando, you are probably visiting the theme parks. But what else is there to do in Kissimmee?  We were very happy to find this family-friendly ice cream shop that has a great play space, too!

Last month David and I went on an amazing trip to Disney.  We signed up for this Disney Youth Series trip with a new friend who is also a GCA mom.  She organized everything so well! We were able to purchase discounted tickets that allowed us to stay longer than I normally could have afforded.   We rented a nice big house in a resort community to hold us, my aunt, my sister-in-law and her four kiddos, plus her friend and her daughter.  I have some fun things to share about this trip over the next months, and hope that some of these tips, ideas, etc will help you in planning your next trip to Florida!

Today I want to share a fun little dessert spot that we visited twice during our week in Florida. Located in downtown Kissimmee, it's a must see!

Abracadabra Ice Cream Factory  is a unique ice cream shop.  Instead of  scooping out your favorite flavor, they use liquid nitrogen to instantly freeze your ice cream right in front of you.  They take fresh ingredients, add your mix-ins, and abracadabra.....you suddenly have ice cream!  It's a fun "magic" show that both kids and adults will enjoy.

I took David on Sunday to get some ice cream and bring some home to Aunt Anne.  I got the Mocha Madness - it is divine!   We also went back on Tuesday after a trip to the former Downtown Disney, now known as Disney Springs.

There are plenty of toss-in options, and they also have some Suggested Combinations listed on the menu board.   The small size that we all chose was actually pretty big - it was more than enough ice cream for each of us. 

My son loved watching them add the nitrogen and then quickly scrape everything into a frozen concoction. 

Here is a video I took of the process.  

They also sell pizza and other foods.  There is a nice little arcade in the building while you wait for your ice cream.  

After we paid for our ice cream, we enjoyed our treats out back, where there is plenty of covered seating and several bounce houses and playground equipment for the kiddos to enjoy.  It's a perfect stop along the way in Kissimmee!

If you will be in the Kissimmee/Disney area,  I highly recommend you check out this fun ice cream shop.

Abracadabra Ice Cream Factory is located at: 520 N Main Street, Kissimmee, FL 34744

What is your favorite thing to do (besides the theme parks!) in Florida? Please leave a comment below...

Giveaway: ReliefMD from Trusted Health Products

I've been using another great product from Trusted Health Products over the last 6 weeks - it's called ReliefMD.  I really like the versatility of this product, as it can be used for a variety of ailments! It has replaced several products in my medicine cabinet, so that makes this the perfect product for our on-the-go family.  I actually keep my ReliefMD in my makeup bag in my purse so it's handy wherever we go.

ReliefMD is for the discomfort of:

Sore Back / Neck
Swollen Joints
Sore Muscles
Muscle Strains
Sprains
Contusions
Bruises
Headache
Insomnia (also put 5 drops in a saucer beside your bed for aromatic benefits)
Sport Workouts (use before and after)
Mosquito Bites / Insect Bites / Stings (apply every few minutes for an hour)
Itching (apply as needed)
Cold Sores (apply every few minutes for an hour)
Burns, including sunburns (apply every few minutes for an hour)

Swipe one drop above upper lip just below the nose, one drop across the forehead, and then lightly cover affected area (do not rub in). Use three times per day, or as needed. Wash hands after use. Avoid contact with eyes and other sensitive tissue. Keep out of the reach of children – do not ingest. Do not use on open wounds. Best to apply immediately after burns and insect bites, stings, workouts, bruises and sprains.

INGREDIENTS

Almond – is used in skin care because it acts as an emollient (softening and soothing the skin), as a remedy for dry skin conditions, and as a relief for irritation, inflammation, and itching. These excellent emollient properties help the skin to balance its loss and absorption of moisture. Almond oil is also used in the medical field to help treat various forms of dermatitis.

Eucalyptus – is a powerful antiseptic, helps with nausea, suppresses coughs, and has strong germicidal and disinfectant properties. It stimulates the blood flow which directs more healthy oxygen to the brain and to the point of application.

Peppermint – has anti-microbial, fungicidal, and bactericidal actions. For medicinal uses, studies have shown peppermint oil to be effective as an analgesic, a tonic, an antispasmodic, and for daytime sleepiness. When combined with eucalyptus oil, the two are well-known for their positive efficacy to treat headaches and relieve pain.

Wintergreen (Methyl Salicylate) – is accepted by the U.S Food and Drug Administration as an over-the-counter external analgesic, primarily intended to relieve mild muscle and joint pain. Has anti-inflammatory properties and is used in topical pain relievers and products that produce a feeling of warmth.

Camphor – is antiseptic, analgesic and antispasmodic. Germany has approved Camphor for the treatment of rheumatism (externally). Camphor oil is applied to the skin to promote circulation and to relieve itching.

Spearmint – is generally used for its anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties, and in skin care, it is used as an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal.

Olive – Olive oil has been used to nourish and moisturize skin.

You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any natural products.

So far I've used ReliefMD to treat a burn, bug bites, a cold sore and for sore muscles after lots of walking at Walt Disney World last month!  It smells nice - very fresh and invigorating.  The scent is a little strong, but I love mint, and that's what it smells like to me.   It comes in a 2 oz glass amber bottle.  It lasts for a long time, too!  Mine barely looks used, but trust me, I've gotten many uses out of it and still have close to a full bottle left to use.

If you like to try natural products and essential oils, you will LOVE Relief MD.

For a limited time, the manufacturer is willing to offer my readers one FREE bottle. They said they would love to have our readers try out ReliefMD and agreed to send one bottle FREE if our readers would pay a minimal shipping and handling charge. This is a one-time only offer! Click here to get your FREE bottle now!

Visit their Website!
Like Trusted Health Products on Facebook!

And now for a giveaway!  Trusted Health Products will give THREE of my readers a free bottle of ReliefMD!  Enter via the rafflecopter widget below.....

Fun Fall Y'all! October Festivals in North Georgia

Fun things to do in North Georgia ~  October 2015 

44^th Annual Georgia Apple Festival and Arts and Crafts Show:

October 10-11 and 17-18

Saturdays 9-6, Sundays 9-5

Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds, 1729 South Main Street, Ellijay, Georgia

Antique Car Show – Saturday, October 10 (rain date October 11)

Parade in Historic Downtown Ellijay- Saturday, October 17

Over 300 vendors, (http://www.georgiaapplefestival.org/vendors.aspx) amazing food (spicy potato chips, German Bratwurst plate). Live entertainment – from music to clogging!

Adults are $5, kids under 10 are FREE!

Rain or shine! No pets allowed. (Pet boarding available on site)

Visit www.facebook.com/georgiaapplefestival or www.georgiaapplefestival.org for more information!

Blue Ridge 2015 Fall Arts in the Park:

October 10 and 11, from 10 am to 5 pm.  Downtown City Park.

Almost 200 booths full of arts, crafts, food and more! $5 admission, kids are free. There is some free parking and some paid parking, too. Visit www.blueridgearts.net/arts-in-the-park.html for more event information.

21^st Annual Heritage Days Festival – this festival takes place in downtown Talking Rock, Georgia on October 17 and 18 from 9 am to 5 pm. Shop booths filled with arts and crafts, antiques and collectibles. Enjoy bluegrass and gospel music. Free admission, both free and paid parking available. Www.talkingrockga.com

Fun Fall, Y'all! Hillcrest Orchards Apple Pickin' Jubilee!

Near Ellijay, Georgia, you will find a wonderful apple picking experience at Hillcrest Orchards.  We started coming here last year and were extremely happy to find everything the same when we went back this Fall.

We like to go during the week since we are a homeschooling family.  That way we miss most of the crowds, but still get to have a great time!

We love the huge variety of apples they offer.  You can pick them yourself, or buy premade, or customized bags of apples inside.  They have lots of great local products for sale, including jellies, cider, baked goods and more. 

Their Apple Pickin' Jubilee is offered on weekends in October.   In addition to picking your own apples, you can also do fun things like milk Buttercup the cow,  watch pig races and swimming pigs, visit the petting zoo and jump on the giant jumping pillow! 

There are Moonshine, Farmhouse and Apple museums,  wagon rides, pedal cart and trike rides, a kiddy corn maze, mini gold, cow train rides – whew!! 

For an extra fee you can take a pony ride or bungee jump, too. 

These apples are down front by the road - they are just for photos, no picking off these trees!

Try some delicious food while you are there:  BBQ, corn on the cob, boiled peanuts, funnel cakes, fried oreos, fried apple pies, apple fritters,  apple cider doughnuts, ice cream and fudge, apple cider and more are available to purchase.   (Get the doughnuts.  Get lots of them!! They are heavenly!)

Each time we visit, David likes to get a plastic apple sipper that comes filled with cold apple cider for $1.50.  He's holding it in the bear picture below.  They have some cute photo opps there, too!

If you go during the week like we do, the market, bakery and petting farm are open daily from 9 am to 6 pm.  Not all of the activities are available during the week.  You can call ahead to find out what they have the day you visit. 

Find out more by visiting their website .

Hillcrest Orchards is located on Georgia Hwy 52 (9 miles east of Ellijay) and their phone number is 706-273-3838. 

Fun Fall, Y'all! Fright Fest at Six Flags over Georgia

We got a sneak peek at the 2015 Six Flags Fright Fest this past weekend, and it's awesome!

The scary surprises start as soon as you arrive at the front gate. Step inside the park and you'll find caskets, wagons filled with creepy cargo, and more.  Spider webs drape the buildings on the promenade, as well.  The haunting music that plays throughout the park will definitely get you in the mood for Fright Fest!

Creepy spots like this are found throughout the park!

Hungry vultures were everywhere!  They had lots to "feast" on....

Daytime thrills include family-friendly activities such as the Lickskillet Harvest Festival.  It is a fun place to take pics with a silly scarecrow, play on the playground and paint your own pumpkin to take home with you! Offered Friday from 6 – 10 pm and Saturday and Sunday 12 – 6 pm.

My pumpkin! 

Bugs Bunny Spooky Town has no tricks, only treats - hang out with your favorite Looney Tunes friends, and enter the Costume Contest at the Bugs Bunny World Theater! It's at 7 pm on Friday, and 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday.  (Only kids 12 and under are allowed to wear costumes in the park, according to the Six Flags website.)

Spooky Stories - Bugs Bunny World Theater – Fun, scary stories are told Friday at 8, 9 and 10 pm, and Saturday and Sunday at 1, 2, 3 and 5 pm.

McBoogles –Hanson Cars – Read about the adventures of the McBoogle family as you take a leisurely drive on the Hanson Cars.  Friday 6 – close, Saturday and Sunday 12 – close.

Things get much scarier for Fright by Night after dark!

Check out The Mourning, a village where the Dead walk and vultures feast.....

Beware the Lost Souls who like to travel in the fog of night, between the Mourning funeral and their graves in the Southern Cemetery.

Cross through The Battleground, where the undead have no love for the living and the battle for Fright Fest has begun!

Travel back in time to 1692 and venture through the village of Salem, where chaos has ensued with the Salem Witch Hunt.

In the Dark Harvest, you'll need to be wary of the corn fields, filled with scarecrows waiting for their prey....

In Big Top Terror there is a wicked Ringmaster who draws onlookers in with his hypnotic voice and wicked gaze!

Gotham City is where you'll find the end of days is near.  A deadly infection is rapidly wiping out mankind....

In Subterrestrial, watch out or you may become the newest creature to live below with the sewer monsters!

There are also Haunted Attractions (extra fee required):

Dr. Fright's Frightorium 3-D – Big Top Terror

ZX-1 – Gotham City

Terror Train – Southern Cemetery

Bayou Bloodlust – Thunder River

The Last Ride – Lickskillet Mill


Monstertainment: 

Fright-Faced Photo Opp near Monster Mansion

The Uprising – outside the Crystal Palace Music Hall

Dr. Fright's Dead Man's Party – Crystal Palace Music Hall

Bad Bob the Bone Butcher – Lickskillet Stage

Big Top Sideshow – Dare Devil Dive Stage

Eve L.'s Spells – Southern Cemetery

Salem Witch Trials – Lickskillet

Miss Dixie's Awakening – Southern Cemetery


In addition to all of the Fright Fest thrills and scares, there are also tons of great rides for your family to enjoy while you are there.  My favorite is always the Harley Quinn Spinsanity!! As someone who doesn't like heights or rollercoasters, people can't believe how much I love spinning crazily in circles over and over, but I LOVE LOVE LOVE it!  My friend Lisa's son Jeramy rode this with me three times in a row, til we could hardly walk straight!

If you like roller coasters, you will be in heaven at Six Flags over Georgia.  They have so many – the Joker Chaos Coaster, The Mind Bender, The Great American Scream Machine, The Georgia Cyclone, The Georgia Scorcher and several more! 

Just know that after dark things will get scary - so if you have littles, plan to go early when things are family-friendly, and leave by dinner time. If you have teens, they will probably like the after dark fun best, especially if they like to get scared!

All in all, Six Flags Fright Fest will be a great Fall fun destination for the whole family.  Check their website for hours, directions, and ticket prices!  Six Flags is located at 275 Riverside Parkway, SW, Austell, Georgia 30168.  Click here for directions.

Fright Fest Schedule:

Saturday, October 10 Noon to Midnight
Sunday, October 11   Noon to 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 17 Noon to Midnight
Sunday, October 18         Noon to 10:00 p.m.
Friday, October 23         6:00 p.m. to Midnight
Saturday, October 24 Noon to Midnight
Sunday, October 25         Noon to 10:00 p.m.
Friday, October 30         6:00 p.m. to Midnight
Saturday, October 31 Noon to Midnight
Sunday, November 1 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

We didn't complete all of the items for the Scavenger Haunt, as the rain finally drove us out. But we had a really fun day while we were there! I hope you and your family have a fabulous time if you go!

What's your favorite ride (or scare!) at Six Flags? Leave a comment and let me know!


We received a day at Fright Fest to participate in the Blogger Scavenger Haunt in order to share the experience here on the blog.  No other compensation was received!