By AML Publisher
Photos by Vida Carson

O’Doodles owner Fran O’Donnell embraces an ‘unplugged’ philosophy when it comes to his toy store.

Since 1997, Chestnut Hill’s renowned toy store O’Doodles has prided itself on its motto: “Toys Unplugged!” Owner Fran O’Donnell believes in bringing back the good ole days of play with his style of inventory which is, for the past, not powered by any electronics. So, you won’t find any DVDs, PS3s or Wii anywhere ‘round these parts. Instead, O’Doodles aisles are filled with puzzles, board games, books, stuffed animals and more. “I think nowadays everyone is so plugged in with either organized sports, activities or electronics-and that to kids now is defined as ‘play’. We firmly believe here at O’Doodles in a back-to-the-basics philosophy and introducing the fun of playing and encouraging imagination. So, by embracing the idea of only having toys that are powered by a child’s creativity, we offer a unique and exciting selection for parents,” explained O’Donnell.
Read the full story

By AML Publisher
Chestnut Hill photos courtesy of Vida Carson
Narberth Photos (including homepage featured shot) courtesy of Donald Groff
Photo of Finer Things courtesy of Mary Kate Burgess

Looking for a fun holiday guide for the next few weekends? We have got you covered with six super towns that are pulling out all the stops to entertain and delight the young and old.

The most cherished holiday tradition in Chestnut Hill is its Stag & Doe Nights which will be held on Wednesdays: December 9th, 16th and 23rd. Pictured is a holiday display in Robertson’s Florist.

Chestnut Hill
Holidays on the Hill
December 2nd through December 24th
www.chestnuthill.org

Discover wonderful holiday design ideas this weekend at the Chestnut Hill Holiday House Tour on Saturday, December 5th. Five magnificent homes, each with unique design and architectural styles, will be professionally decorated for the holidays and open from 10 am to 4 pm.

The most cherished holiday tradition in Chestnut Hill is its Stag & Doe Nights which will be held on Wednesdays, December 9th, 16th and 23rd, from 6 to 9 pm. Shops offer evening hours with wine and cheese or cocoa and cookies. Live music, roasting chestnuts, carolers and merriment make the nights come alive with joy and holiday spirit. And everyone looks forward to greeting Santa as he, too, enjoys the fun of Stag & Doe. New this year is Girls Night Out on Wednesday evening, December 2nd from 6 to 9 pm. Participating shops will offer lots of goodies and the ladies can get a head-start on their holiday revelry (and shopping, too).
Read the full story

By AML Publisher
Photos courtesy of Belle Vie Photography

Two of Sesame Street's most famous characters: Bert (played by Frank Oz) and Ernie (played by Henson)

Jim Henson’s Fantastic World is just that-fantastic. And for lovers of America’s most well known puppeteer, the exhibition at Doylestown’s Michener Museum is a must-see for families across the Delaware Valley. Fantastic World wraps up its fall run this coming holiday weekend.

The exhibit offers a rare peek into the imagination and creative genius of this multitalented innovator and creator of Kermit the Frog, Big Bird, and other beloved characters. Henson, who passed away from pneumonia at the age of 53 in 1990, has been on the national media forefront lately with this month’s fortieth celebration of Sesame Place.
Read the full story