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May 15, 2012
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Note from the Publisher

I hope you all had an amazing Mother's Day weekend!  Did you get anything extra special this year?  My kids made me cards and pictures that I will cherish forever, they washed my car, and did all of the "little" things around the house (you know, laundry, cooking, unloading the dishwasher, sweeping the floors, etc).  I also got to indulge myself by laying in the hammock and reading a book.  (No, not 50 Shades of Gray, but that is next on my list!).  What it really made me realize was that it doesn't take money or fancy gifts, it takes feeling appreciated and loved that makes it all worthwhile!  

And...guess what's coming back after a much too long break?  MACARONI DEALS!  That's right!  Just in time to start saving you money for summer a BRAND NEW DEAL will be launched this week.  If you subscribed previously, you should be ok, but just in case, here is the link to subscribe so won't miss any of the upcoming deals!  

A couple reminders:
  • I am starting to work on a VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL directory.  Please fill out this easy, online FORM to get your VBS listed for FREE!
  • Please take a minute and read about COOKIES FOR KIDS CANCER.  I'll be hosting a bake sale on June 23rd and hope you'll want to get involved!

Giveaway:  Jamberry Nails

Kids Corner:  National Kids to Parks Day

Local Business Spotlight:  Bully Boot Camp:  a review

Parent's Page:  Outdoor Learning

Recipe of the week: S'mores Croissants (and I actually made this one!)

Daily Events:  This week's picks are listed below but be sure to click on the CALENDAR for the complete listing of events

   
summer camp guide  



FOLLOW | CONNECT | CONTACT | CALENDAR

              


Giveaway Time!

Jamberry Nails

Jamberry Nails is a new revolutionary nail product that replaces nail polish.  We provide women the ability to get salon looking nails at home for a fraction of the cost! The nail shields are applied through heat (hair dryer) and this activates the bond to help ensure a long lasting manicure or pedicure.  They stay on your fingers for 2 weeks and 4-6 weeks on your toes!! The shields are for all ages with over 150 amazing designs to choose from! They are not nail polish so they don’t ...


Local Business Spotlight

Bully Boot Camp

My 7 year old son and I had the recent pleasure of joining Tom Ramsey for Bully Boot Camp.  With bullying being so prevalent on the news and in our society today, as a parent, I want to make sure I give my kids all the skills they need to help them deal it.  This wasn't a big issue when I was in school, so, honestly, I'm not always sure how to teach my kids about bullying.  When I heard about Bully Boot Camp, I thought it sounded ...

Parent's Page

Outdoor Learning

Being outside is good for young children; they can move, run and climb. But the outdoors is good for more than just physical play. While participating in outdoor activities young children learn things that will help them be ready for school – such as observing and exploring science in action, learning about the world we live in and practicing early math & literacy skills in the real world.

But what types of outdoor activities are best for developing school readiness skills in babies, toddlers & preschoolers? Smart Beginnings has some simple ideas to ...

National Kids to Parks Day

May 19, 2012

Just what is National Kids to Parks Day, anyway?  Simply put, every family in America is invited to attend a local park, state park, or national park and play the day away!  Many areas are hosting special events and, in fact, all 35 Virginia State Parks are hosting special events!  You can also go to www.kidstoparks.org and pledge to go to a park with your family on May 19th.  Pretty cool!

This is the perfect opportunity to "unplug" and enjoy the great outdoors.  You'll be amazed at ...

Melody Makers Summer Schedule

Melody Makers 10-week Summer Music Classes NOW REGISTERING!

Gigi Jingle Classes (8-36 months) 30 minute fun interactive classes with parent or caregiver. Mon.10:00 & 11:30, Tues. 10:40, Wed. 9:15 & 9:50, Thurs. 10:40, Fri. 11:20, Sat. 9:30 & 10:10

Music Investigators Classes (3-6 years) 45 minute classes. Parents can watch class through observation windows. Studying Johann Strauss, Austria, Notes & Rests and how to "read music". Mon. 10:40, Wed. 11:20, Thurs. 11:20, Fri. 11:20.

Family Harmony Classes (birth-6 years) Parents ...

This Week's Picks:

May 15th through May 21st

Tuesday, May 15 through Friday, May 18 - Pop-In Playtime

This is perfect for your preschooler!  Get them out to run, jump and play!
Where: Pump It Up, Orange Ave
When: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Who: ages 6 and under
How: n/a
Cost: $6.50/child
For more info: call 540-345-7867
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Tuesday, May 15 - Transportation Tuesday Playdate

Transportation Tuesdays are designed to give preschoolers a hands-on learning experience where they can experiment and be creative.  Activities are planned around Virginia's Foundation Blocks for Early Learning.
Where: Virginia Museum of Transportation
When: 10:00 AM
Who: ages 3-5 with a parent or caregiver
How: n/a
Cost: members $5 and non/members $10 (adults free with the child) and punch cards are available
For more info: contact Courtney Plaster at 540-342-5670
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Tuesday, May 15 - Vinton Doodlers Art Club

Come to the library for fun art activities.  This month is "Outdoor Art"
Where: Vinton Library, 800 E Washington Ave, Vinton
When: 4:00 PM
Who: ages 5 - 10
How: call 857-5043 to register
Cost: free
For more info: call 857-5043
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Wednesday, May 16 - FREE Trial Family Harmony Class

Come visit a class with your little ones. 45 minutes of music fun with Gigi the Giraffe and Handel the Horse. Play instruments, dance and sing! Fun for the whole family:)
Where: Melody Makers, 2039 Electric Rd, Oak Grove Plaza
When: 10:25 AM
Who: ages birth - 6 years
How: just show up!
Cost: FREE
For more info: email Maria Smith at msmith@melodymakersmusic.com
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Wednesday, May 16 - Celebrate Japan: Super Kicks Karate Demo

Super Kicks will have a karate demonstration for kids
Where: Melrose Branch Library, 2607 Salem Turnpike
When: 10:30 AM
Who: all ages
How: n/a
Cost: free
For more info: call 853-2648
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Wednesday, May 16 - FREE Trial Gigi Jingle Class

Come visit us for instruments, streamers, and loads of music fun! You will meet our friend Gigi the giraffe and her cousin Jojo!
Where: Melody Makers, 2039 Electric Rd, Oak Grove Plaza
When: 11:15 AM
Who: ages 8-36 months
How: just show up!
Cost: FREE
For more info: email Maria Smith at msmith@melodymakersmusic.com
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Wednesday, May 16 through Sunday, May 20 - DREW Expo

It's carnival time!  Rides, food, games, and more!
Where: Roanoke Civic Center
When: 4:00 PM - 11:00 PM (Saturday 11am-midnight and Sunday 12pm-8pm)
Who: all ages 
How: n/a
Cost: free admission!  Unlimited ride ticket special prices available!
For more info: visit www.roanokeciviccenter.com
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Thursday, May 17 - Chapter Book Club

For kids on at least a 2nd grade reading level, read one book per month, provided by the library and come discuss it and do activities related to the book. Parents must remain at the library
Where: Williamson Road Library
When: 3:00 PM
Who: kids reading on a 2nd grade reading level
How: n/a
Cost: free
For more info: call 853-2340
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Thursday, May 17 - Catawba Farmer's Market

Enjoy food and crafts from local growers and vendors
Where: Catawba Community Center, Catawba Creek Rd
When: 3:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Who: open to the public
How: n/a
Cost: free to attend
For more info: call 387-6078
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Thursday, May 17 - Vinton Tween Scene

The group will be creating "pop up" greeting cards
Where: Vinton Library, 800 E Washington Ave
When: 4:00 PM
Who: ages 8-12
How: registration is required by calling 857-5043
Cost: free
For more info: call 857-5043
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Thursday, May 17 - Rockin' Readers

For kids on at least a 4th grade reading level. Read one book per month, provided by the library and then come discuss it and do activites related to the book. Parents remain at the library
Where: Williamson Road Library
When: 4:30 PM
Who: reading on at least a 4th grade reading level
How: n/a
Cost: free
For more info: call 853-2340
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Friday, May 18 - FREE Trial Music Investigators Class

Come visit a fun and interactive music class. Children come in independently and parents can watch through observation windows. 45 minute class includes action games, instruments, singing, music theory, composer study, geography lesson, music appreciation and a puppet sing-a-long!
Where: Melody Makers, 2039 Electric Rd, Oak Grove Plaza
When: 12:45 PM
Who: ages 3-6
How: just show up!
Cost: FREE
For more info: email Maria Smith at msmith@melodymakersmusic.com
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Friday, May 18 - Basic Water Safety Lessons

Kids can learn FREE lessons about lifejacket, boating, swimming, and pool safety.
Where: Green Ridge Rec Center
When: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: ages 5-12
How: n/a
Cost: free
For more info: call Green Ridge at 777-6300
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Friday, May 18 - Bounce Night

Come have fun on a giant inflatable obstacle course!
Where: Green Ridge Rec Center, 7415 Woodhaven Rd
When: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: All ages
How: n/a
Cost: Members are free or $5 for non-members.
For more info: Call 540-777-6300
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Friday, May 18 - Jump N Jam Nights

Just for tweens! Come have fun at Pump It Up as they play fun music and turn on the "glow" special FX lights!
Where: Pump It Up, Orange Ave
When: 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Who: ages 11-14 (grades 6-8)
How: parents may stick around in the lobby or enjoy a night out and this is a supervised event.
Cost: $10/child
For more info: call 345-7867
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Saturday, May 19 - Loudron-Melrose Neighborhood Flea Market

Everything is FREE, just bring a bag!
Where: 1427 Melrose Ave, NW Roanoke
When: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Who: open to the community
How: n/a
Cost: free
For more info: call 344-2978
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Saturday, May 19 - Middle and High School Sports Physicals

Student sport physicals open to all students
Where: Northside High School
When: 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: for students entering grades 7-12 for the upcoming school year
How: n/a
Cost: $17/student (cash or check only)
For more info: email lguilliams@healthfocusswva.org
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Saturday, May 19 - 9th Annual Grandin Court Baptist 5K Road & Trail Challenge

Enjoy a 5K race and also a kids fun run, baby crawl and toddler trot.  There will be door prizes, free food, and games.
Where: Grandin Court Baptist Church, 2660 Brambleton Rd SW
When: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: all ages
How: register online at www.grandincourtbpatist.org
Cost: $25
For more info: email brandon@grandincourtbaptist.org or call 774-1684
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Saturday, May 19 through Sunday, May 20 - Scott's Strawberry Festival

In addition to picking strawberries there will be rides, food, music, pony rides, a petting zoo, and more!
Where: Scott's Strawberry Farm, 5234 Joppa Mill Rd, Moneta
When: 10:00 AM (Sunday starts at noon)
Who: all ages
How: n/a
Cost: $2/parking fee
For more info: call 540-345-8548
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Saturday, May 19 - Spectacular Saturdays

Bring the family out for a day at the Taubman!  Featuring gallery hunts, arts and crafts, and special guests!
Where: Taubman Museum of Art
When: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Who: all ages
How: n/a
Cost: FREE admission
For more info: visit www.taubmanmuseum.org
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Saturday, May 19 - Shake, Bake and Sprout at Vinton Farmer's Market

Fun and educational activities for kids including things like container gardening, cooking, and exercise and movement.
Where: Vinton Farmer's Market, 204 W Lee Ave, Vinton
When: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Who: all ages
How: n/a
Cost: free
For more info: visit www.vintonva.gov
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Saturday, May 19 - Local Colors Festival

Poland is the featured country this year and enjoy dance, music, food, vendors, and a children's area.
Where: Elmwood Park, Downtown Roanoke
When: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Who: all ages
How: n/a
Cost: free to attend
For more info: email pearlfu3@gmail.com
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Saturday, May 19 - Animal Acoustics

Animal-themed musical activities at the zoo!  Learn about animal sounds and enjoy an instrument petting zoo!
Where: Mill Mountain Zoo
When: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Who: all ages
How: n/a
Cost: regular zoo admission applies
For more info: visit www.mmzoo.org
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Saturday, May 19 - City Market Saturdays

Head to historic downtown city market for fun each weekend with live entertainment, street performers, "how-tos", and more...changing each weekend!
This week:  food demo with Whitetop Mountaineers
Where: Historic Roanoke City Market
When: 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Who: all ages
How: n/a
Cost: free
For more info: City Market Saturdays
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Saturday, May 19 - National Kids to Parks Day

From 1 to 2 p.m. Join the interpreter for an Osprey Hike; Learn of the fascinating "Fish Hawk". Watch streaming video on our monitor, then take a stroll to catch a glimpse of these magnificent raptors in person!
2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Build a Birds Nest; You'll decide what makes the best building material as you construct your own nest. Discover the hidden housing facing our feathered friends when it comes to housing. 
Where: Smith Mountain Lake State Park Discovery Center
When: 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Who: everyone!
How: n/a
Cost: FREE programs but regular parking fees do apply
For more info:  For more information log onto:http://www.kidstoparks.org and call SML State Park at 540-297-6066 or email lauri.schular@dcr.virginia.gov
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Sunday, May 20 - Family Fun Day

Free food, bouncy houses, games, and music
Where: First Church of the Nazarene, 728 Highland Ave, SE
When: 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Who: all ages
How: n/a
Cost: free
For more info: call 342-4003 or email chers571@juno.com
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Sunday, May 20 - Greater Raleigh Court Neighborhood Block Party

There will be food, music, performers, classic cars, and kids activities.
Where: Grandin Village, Grandin Rd, Roanoke
When: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: all ages
How: n/a
Cost: free
For more info: call 777-1790
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Monday, May 21 - Pop-In Playtime

This is perfect for your preschooler!  Get them out to run, jump and play!
Where: Pump It Up, Orange Ave
When: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Who: ages 6 and under
How: n/a
Cost: $6.50/child
For more info: call 540-345-7867
Add to My Macaroni

Monday, May 21 - Cloth Diaper Class/Swap

Come learn about cloth diapering
Where: River's Edge Playground
When: 11:00 AM
Who: anyone interested in cloth diapering and your baby!
How: n/a
Cost: free
For more info: http://clothreviews.blogspot.com/
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Monday, May 21 - SoCo Lego Club

Love legos?  Come and build with us!
Where: South County Library, 6303 Merriman Rd
When: 4:00 PM
Who: ages 7-12
How: n/a
Cost: free
For more info: call 772-2006
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Monday, May 21 - Family OPEN JUMP

Bring the whole family to Pump It Up!
Where: Pump It Up, Orange Ave
When: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM (every Monday thru August)
Who: ages 2-10
How: reserve your spot by calling 345-7867
Cost: $8/child
For more info: call 345-7867
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Teen Scene:

May 12th through May 22nd

Saturday, May 12 - Roanoke Valley Chess Club

Come join the Roanoke Valley Chess Club for the weekly meeting.  Players of all strengths and ages are welcome.  The atmosphere is friendly and informational, and someone is always ready for a game!  Beginner to master level welcome!
Where: Roanoke Natural Foods Co-Op, Community Meeting Room, 1319 Grandin Rd
When: 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Who: ages 12-17
How: n/a
Cost: call for more information
For more info: call 540-588-7519 or 540-344-4446 or visit www.roanokechess.com or email info@roanokechess.com
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Thursday, May 17 - Celebrate Japan: Sing Star Karaoke

If you love to sing Karaoke, then this if for you!  Featuring Sing Star with PS3
Where: Gainsboro Library, 15 Patton Ave, NW
When: 4:00 PM
Who: ages 12-17
How: n/a
Cost: free
For more info: call 853-2955
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Saturday, May 19 - Celebrate Japan: Manga Drawing

Learn some basics of Manga drawing with local artist Aeron Toler.
Where: Main Library, 706 S Jefferson St
When: 12:00 PM
Who: ages 12-17
How: n/a
Cost: free
For more info: call 853-2955
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Monday, May 21 - Garden City Games

Great place to work off any boredom.  Enjoy the pool tables, ping pong, foosball, and wii.  Bring your friends!
Where: Garden City Rec Center
When: 3:30 PM (every Monday)
Who: ages12-17
How: register by calling 853-2236
Cost: free
For more info: call 853-2236
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Monday, May 21 - Celebrate Japan:Origami Workshop for Teens

Learn about the Japanese art of paper folding for teens.  Supplies will be provided.
Where: Jackson Park Branch Library, 1101 Morningside St SE
When: 4:00 PM
Who: ages 12-17
How: n/a
Cost: free
For more info: call 853-2640
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Tuesday, May 22 - Adventures in the Afternoon

Dungeons and Dragons Gaming Club.
Where: Main Library, 706 S Jefferson St, Roanoke
When: 4:00 PM
Who: ages 12-17
How: n/a
Cost: free
For more info: call 540-853-2473
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Plan Ahead:

May 25th through June 23rd

Friday, May 25 through Saturday, May 28 - Festival in the Park

Enjoy Memorial Day weekend with music, food, and much more!
Where: Elmwood Park, Downtown Roanoke
When: 10:00 AM (Sunday at 11am)
Who: all ages
How: concert tickets available online
Cost: all daytime activities are FREE, but concert ticket prices vary
For more info: http://roanokefestival.org/
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Sunday, June 3 - Promote Commotion for Life Relay Event

This a great cause and great, family event!  Featuring live music, vendors, food, raffles, and fun.  And a special karaoke competition that even kids under 12 can get involved in!
Where: Roanoke Moose Lodge #284 Family Center, 3233 Catawba Valley Drive, Salem
When: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: all ages
How: n/a
Cost: free but donations accepted
For more info: Click HERE
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Thursday, June 21 - United Way of Roanoke Day of Action

This year's day of action will focus on the Hurt Park neighborhood.  There are several ways to get involved from volunteering that day to helping with a drive for food, clothing, school supplies, and more.  
Where: Hurt Park Elem School
When: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Who: everyone!
How:  contact Kristin Adkins at 540-777-4210 or kristin@uwrv.org
Cost: free
For more info:  contact Kristin Adkins at 540-777-4210 or kristin@uwrv.org
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Saturday, June 23 - Cookies for Kids' Cancer Bake Sale

Help us raise money for pediatric cancer research by stopping by and purchasing some cookies at our bake sale.
Where: Glazed Bisque-It, 3534 Electric Rd, Roanoke
When: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Who: everyone!
How: n/a
Cost: 100% of donations for cookies will go to Cookies for Kids' Cancer
For more info: email jamiec@macaronikid.com
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Grab the Blue!

25th Annual Salem Fair is Coming!

It's that time of year again, time to start getting excited about the Salem Fair coming to the Salem Civic Center in July.  In celebration of its' 25th year, they are pulling out all the stops and offering some fabulous special contests, including one from Macaroni Kid Roanoke!  

Macaroni Kid is looking for the BEST MACARONI ART at the  
25th Anniversary Salem Fair.

Date of Contest:  July 7, 2012
Contest Entry Time:  noon-2pm
Age Categories:  Y1: ages 13 and under and Y2: ages 14-19
Prizes: *TBA prize for Y2 ...

365 Days of Nature's Own Bread. FREE!

Enter Natureʼs Own Portrait on a Plate Contest for your chance to win a yearʼs worth of bread!

Natureʼs Own understands the importance of family and thatʼs probably why itʼs Americaʼs favorite soft variety bread. And now theyʼve launched a contest for the month of May where moms and their kids can have fun in the kitchen and get the chance to win free bread or other Natureʼs Own products for an entire year.

All through this month, moms and their children will be in the kitchen creating unique portraits of Mom, using bread, meats, vegetables, fruit, condiments and whatever else is on hand in the pantry or ...

Cookies for Kids' Cancer

We are hosting a bake sale!

Let's get ready to raise some money for pediatric cancer research with a Cookies for Kids' Cancer Bake Sale


When:  Saturday, June 23rd from 11am-2pm
Where:  Glazed Bisque-It, 3534 Electric Rd (Promenade Park), Roanoke
Why:  To raise money for pediatric cancer research so we we can all "be good cookies"
How:  Come by on the 23rd and show your support by purchasing a bag of cookies!  100% of the money raised will go to Cookies for Kids' Cancer and help fund pediatric cancer research!

We are still looking for ...

Recipe of the Week

S'mores Croissants

Ingredients:
Tube of cresent rolls (I use Pillsbury)
Chocolate chips
Mini-marshmellows
OPTIONAL:  peanut butter or caramel

Directions:  
Unroll the crescent rolls and top with chocolate chips and marshmellows
Roll up and cook as directed on crescent rolls package



This is a fun, much less messy alternative to traditional s'mores!  Enjoy!

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