Oregon Battle of the Books 28 Let them cook: recipes for kids 24 It’s our birthday! MOM Mag turns 20 20
Editor’s note ....................... 5 A message from MOM
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MOM MagazineTM is owned by Active Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or part, without written permission of the publisher, is prohibited. Information in the magazine is provided for general information purposes only with the understanding that none of the content constitutes professional advice. Opinions expressed by the writers or advertisers are not necessarily the opinions of the magazine or the publisher. Inclusion in the magazine does not constitute endorsement of information, products or services. ...4 talking about.
Cover MOM: Danielle Tolmie................ 14 This mom gets real. It’s our birthday! MOM Mag turns 20 ........ 20 Let them cook: recipes for kids ................ 24 Oregon Battle of the Books 28
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meet the experts
[They know what they’re talking about]
Motherhood
Journey to Motherhood with Anne Marie Moore, page 6
Vacation
Vacation MOM with Donnita Bassinger, CTC, MCC, page 12
Wellness
Your Best Self with Meghan Hess, NBC-HWC, page 7
Focus
Focus on MOM with Dr. Ayda Porkar, page 8
Pets
Pets are Family with Dr. Erica Harmon, page 10
Body & Balance
Body & Balance with Dr. Chrissy Clark, page 11
Beyond the Bin
Beyond the Bin with Daniel Hiestand, page 22
Smile
Something to Smile About with Dr. Erin Estep, page 26
Say Cheese
Say Cheese with Dr. Brad Chvatal, page 30
Publisher
Matthew Nelson, Active Media, Inc PO Box 672, Aurora OR 97002-0672 info@activemediausa.com 503-825-2100
Editor-in-Chief
Managing Director Audrey Meier DeKam audrey@mommag.com
Mid-Valley & Lane County Business Development Manager
Linda Blair linda@mommag.com 541-231-7250
Marion & Polk County Business Development Manager
Kim Leighty kim.leighty@mommag.com 503-510-9036
Designer Sean Carver sean@activemediausa.com
MOM Magazine is sustainably delivered throughout the community thanks to pedalersexpress.com
Editor’s Note
A love letter to readers
This year MOM Magazine celebrates our 20th birthday. It’s an incredible feat in our industry, with all the dazzling digital distractions out there competing for your attention. Good news: video did not kill the radio star, nor has the internet killed print.
It was mid-March 2020 when I took the job as this magazine’s third editor-in-chief, straight into the pandemic and (thankfully) out the other side. But I was a devoted reader long before that, when my first child was born in 2006. Back then, I was a new mom and came across this neat little magazine that led me to local resources I needed. Seeing faces and spaces I recognized in print has always felt special; as the saying goes, representation matters.
We’re always striving to make our magazines relevant to parenting life in the Mid-Willamette Valley and Oregon. With magazines customized to Salem, Eugene and Albany/Corvallis, our cover moms are always real, local moms.
And we’ve always been free: our advertisers’ support allows us to distribute this magazine to be read by any and all, and we’re wildly proud of that. There are no barriers to accessing our stories and information. One of the best compliments we often hear is, “It’s free? Wow, it looks so nice!” It’s why we have to put the word FREE on our covers.
Our magazines have been rolled up and tucked in diaper bags, thumbed through in waiting rooms and lobbies. Our pages have been dog-eared to remember that great little preschool you saw advertised, or pediatrician, clothing shop, parenting class and so much more.
Serving as editor-in-chief has been my most favorite job in my entire working life. When a reader stops me on the street or at a school event and says they read my column, I consider them my instant bestie. Send me your thoughts and ideas — I love hearing from readers.
The best birthday present you have given MOM Magazine is your support. May we have many more years sharing all things local together. Thank you.
Audrey Meier DeKam
Preparing for a healthy pregnancy journey to motherhood
Bringing a new life into the world is a beautiful journey, and it starts well before conception.
Preconception visits are a crucial step in preparing your mind and body for pregnancy. Scheduling one should be at the top of your list when planning for a baby, to achieve and maintain optimal health for both of you. As we get to know you, we'll cover a range of health topics to support you in your goal.
Evaluate your health history
A preconception visit allows us to review your medical history, including any chronic conditions. Identifying and managing these conditions beforehand can reduce risks during pregnancy and ensure a healthier start for your baby.
Review current medications & supplements
Many over-the-counter and prescription medications aren’t safe during pregnancy. We can guide you on what to continue, adjust or stop. Additionally, we will talk
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about starting a prenatal vitamin with folic acid to help prevent neural tube defects.
Address lifestyle factors
Your overall health and lifestyle can significantly influence your fertility and pregnancy outcomes. We might talk about your overall nutrition and exercise, as well as mental health concerns. We’re here to listen and help, not judge: if you’re struggling with smoking, alcohol or substance abuse we can talk about strategies for quitting and reducing harm.
Discuss vaccinations
Certain infections can pose risks during pregnancy. During your visit, we will check your immunization record and recommend vaccines, such as the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) or Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) boosters.
Assess fertility & family planning goals
Whether you’ve been trying to conceive or are just starting your journey, we offer insights on timing, ovulation and fertility awareness. If you’ve faced challenges, we can discuss advanced testing or treatments.
Genetic counseling & testing
For couples with a family history of genetic conditions or those curious about their baby’s potential risks, genetic counseling can be a valuable part of the preconception process.
Preconception visits are about empowering you with knowledge and support to prepare for a healthy pregnancy. If planning a pregnancy is in your future, reach out to your women’s health nurse practitioner, midwife or OB-GYN to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward this exciting chapter.
Anne Marie Moore, WHNP
oregonbirthandwellness.org 541-515-6556
890 Beltline Road in Springfield
Wellness
You deserve to feel amazing
Between school runs and endless laundry, your own goals can feel like a fantasy. And “me time” faces tough competition from snack-demanding toddlers. Imagine if you had a supportive expert in your corner, helping you prioritize your well-being. That’s where a wellness coach comes in. At a glance, wellness coaching provides:
Personalized plans | No more generic advice that doesn’t fit your chaotic (but wonderful!) life. Your coach creates a plan that works with your schedule, your family’s needs and your personal goals.
Accountability & motivation | Motherhood is a whirlwind. Your coach is your partner, keeping you motivated and accountable.
Behavior change expertise | Breaking your old habits while your kids demand attention may seem impossible, but a wellness coach helps you create lasting healthy habits that meet you exactly where you are in life.
Goal setting & achievement | You’ve got dreams, mama! Your coach helps you set realistic goals and provides actionable steps to achieve them, even if you only have 15 minutes to spare.
At West Coast Health + Wellness, we offer free discovery phone calls to help clients learn how coaching can help them. Visit our website at wchwellness. com to get started. Ditch the mom-guilt and embrace a healthier, happier you.
Brought to you by: West Coast Health + Wellness wchwellness.com west.coast.health.coach
COME AS YOU ARE
Meghan Hess, NBC-HWC National board-certified Wellness Coach mhess@wellnesscoach.com
In Lincoln City, you don’t need to change a thing — just bring yourself. Whether you’re chasing the magic of the tides, seeking quiet moments by the fire, or savoring fresh seafood with your toes in the sand, Lincoln City is a place where you can be you.
Learn more at ExploreLincolnCity.com
Dry eyes in winter
In winter we find ourselves indoors much more often, and those heat sources can be drying to our eyes. Add in screen time, and your eyes might be feeling itchy and uncomfortable. There are ways to help.
First, look at your lifestyle. It’s hard to make tears if you are dehydrated, so drink plenty of water and avoid diuretics like caffeine and alcohol. Screen time is also a culprit: We blink less when using a computer screen, so use the 20/20/20 rule: take a break every 20 minutes, to look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps our focusing and eye-pointing muscles avoid too much time in one posture.
Use artificial tears such as Systane Ultra, Blink, Refresh Tears, etc. Avoid gel types during daytime, as they can be too thick to provide a clear image. Bruder Masks are reusable, microwaveable warm eye compresses that feel like a spa treatment. They help by getting oil glands functioning better, which improves tear film.
For contact lens users, removing lenses nightly and replacing them on schedule keeps their surfaces as smooth as possible, which makes vision clearer and more comfortable.
Keeping your eyes in good health goes a long way in feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day. Stay up-to-date with your regular eye exams, and let your eye doctor know if you’ve started or stopped any medications, as certain types can be drying.
Now Enrolling for fall 2025
• Bilingual and garden program.
• Weekly curriculum plan base on STEM or kid-size science, engineering and math.
• Early learning cultural program.
• ERDC accepted.
• Part time and full time available to start any time.
The first tuition payment (for
mention
Dr. Ayda Porkar, OD
The dangers of THC for pets: a growing concern
As cannabis use becomes more widespread, pet owners need to be aware of the potential dangers it poses to their furry companions.
Tetrahydrocannabinol, known as THC, is the psychoactive compound in marijuana. It can be toxic to pets, causing a range of symptoms that requires immediate veterinary attention.
Pets, especially dogs and cats, are more sensitive to THC than humans. Even small amounts can lead to severe effects, including lethargy, vomiting, drooling, uncoordinated movement and in some cases, seizures or coma. THC poisoning can occur if a pet ingests cannabis products, such as edibles, oils or marijuana itself. Pets are also at risk from secondhand smoke, ingestion of ashes or the remnants of marijuana cigarettes.
The effects of THC on pets vary based on their size, breed and the amount consumed, but the consequences can be life-threatening, particularly in smaller animals.
If you suspect your pet has ingested THC, seek immediate veterinary care. To prevent accidental poisoning, store all cannabis products out of your pet’s reach and avoid smoking or vaping around them. Public awareness and education are key to safeguarding the health of our pets in a world where cannabis is becoming increasingly accessible.
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Wilvet South 24/7 urgent care
Brought to you by: Erica Harmon, DVM
body & balance
The importance of exercise during pregnancy
Regular exercise during pregnancy offers numerous benefits for both mom and baby! It can help reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, improve mood, combat common aches and pains, and prepare the body and mind for labor, childbirth and postpartum recovery.
Due to unique changes that occur in a pregnant body, guidance from a physical therapist can ensure that exercise is both safe and beneficial. A physical therapist specializing in prenatal care can design a personalized exercise program tailored to the person’s needs and stage of pregnancy, such as exercises to strengthen the core, improve posture, increase endurance and prevent bowel and bladder issues.
Physical therapy can also address common pregnancy-related discomforts, such as back, pelvic, neck/shoulder and sciatica pain through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics and hands-on techniques. Lastly, having a specific exercise routine during pregnancy can help moms during the labor, childbirth and immediate postpartum spaces by providing knowledge of how their body works during each stage along with increasing confidence on how to approach the transformational processes.
Scan the QR code to learn exercises that improve core stability and grip strength to help you train for carrying your newborn in their car seat. Check out other videos in the prenatal and postpartum playlist for more tips and tricks.
Dr. Chrissy Clark, PT, DPT, WCS, CFL-2 dualitypelvichealthandwellness.com Call or text: 541-357-3839
Scan for our free online prenatal exercise program!
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Vibrant Jamaica!
IF YOU LOVE SUNSHINE, BEAUTIFUL BEACHES, WATER SPORTS, MUSIC AND LIVELY CULTURE, JAMAICA IS THE PERFECT ISLAND FOR YOU.
Jamaica is the third largest island in the Caribbean Sea, with lush tropical foliage and mountains up to 7,400 feet high. As the birthplace of Reggae and Dancehall music, you will hear music and see dancing everywhere. English is the official language, and many also speak Jamaican or Patois with a strong accent. You can fly to Montego Bay from the Eugene Airport on United, American Airlines and Delta. Note that passports are required for all travelers.
WHEN TO GO
The weather in Jamaica is warm and sunny year-round. The average high temperature for the whole year is in the 80s with the lows in the 70s. In July and August, it can get hot and humid, and June through November is hurricane season. As with all of the Caribbean and Mexico, don’t be afraid to travel during hurricane season: just be sure to purchase travel insurance and be prepared for some tropical rain showers that generally go away quickly.
As is the case with any tourist destination, the most expensive time to travel is during school holidays such as winter break, spring break and summer. September, October and November (except Thanksgiving week) and the first two weeks of December are the lowest prices.
WHERE TO GO
The majority of tourists visit three main resort areas: Negril, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. The major airport is in Montego Bay, which is a good place for a short visit and to experience the local culture. The resort area of Negril is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It takes about 90 minutes to get to Negril from the Montego Bay airport. Ocho Rios is the opposite direction from Montego Bay and they have a smooth highway that takes about two hours.
Jamaica is 146 miles long with roads that are narrow and winding. I do not recommend renting a car for a number of reasons. They drive on the left side of the road, you need to be aware of areas that are not safe for tourists, the roads can have many
OCHO RIOS
NEGRIL
MONTEGO BAY
potholes and people drive erratically. It is much better to hire drivers to take you to your destinations or for sightseeing tours.
WHAT TO DO
In addition to lovely beaches, there are endless outdoor activities. This is the location of the famous Dunn’s River Falls where you can climb up a cascading waterfall. In the rain forests there are zip lines, horseback riding, ATVs, white water rafting tours and underground caves to explore. You can also tour historical sites and gardens. If you are staying for at least eight nights, you can do a combo trip and stay in two different areas.
WHERE TO STAY
The options for accommodations in Jamaica are endless. There are high-end boutique hotels, cozy inns and very popular allinclusive resorts.
There are over 50 all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica. People love having their meals, drinks, activities and entertainment included in one price. For families, special programs for children and the security of having everything you need onsite make this the easiest vacation you can take. If you are traveling without children, staying in an adults-only resort is a splurge you won’t regret. Jamaica is home to well known Sandals & Beaches all-inclusive resorts, with seven for couples and two for families.
There are vast differences in quality and atmosphere at all-inclusive resorts, and you
MEET VACATION MOM TM
can’t trust the pretty pictures and random reviews you see on the internet. It’s important to have a travel professional help you find the perfect location for your vacation.
If you are traveling without children, staying in an adults-only resort is a splurge you won’t regret.
I just returned from visiting these areas and I would be happy to help you find the perfect resort. A complete vacation package with your flights, transportation from the airport to the resort and back, sightseeing excursions, an all-inclusive resort and travel insurance will make your trip easy and fun!
Vacation MOM is brought to you in partnership with Eugene Airport
Donnita Bassinger is a mom to three sons, and she lives in Eugene with her husband. She has been a travel agent for four decades and is the owner of VIP Vacations, Inc. She would love to help you plan a great vacation.
Contact Donnita at 541-913-5272 @VacationMOMpage
Danielle Tolmie
PROFESSION
Professional ballet dancer
COMMUNITY
Eugene PARTNER
Mark Tucker, professional ballet dancer
CHILDREN
Luca, age 4, and Theo, age 1.5
PHOTOS BY: LIVIA FREMOUW
WHEN A DEMANDING CAREER MEETS MOTHERHOOD, THE RESULT IS A JOYOUS FREEDOM FROM PERFECTION.
Family comes first.
MOM’s favorite…
Tell us about your favorite…
…words to live by: No rest for the weary.
…place to find some peace & quiet: On my morning runs.
…way to get out of making dinner: I often make big meals and freeze them for when I don’t want to cook.
…parenting book or philosophy: Raise kids that you like being around.
All families are unique. Tell us about yours. My husband, Mark, and I are both principal dancers with the Eugene Ballet Company. As partners both on and off stage, we spend almost our entire day together. People often ask how we manage to spend so much time together without fighting, but the truth is, we love what we do, love doing it together and have the utmost respect for one another. We have two beautiful children, Luca (4) and Theo (1.5), both of whom I performed with while pregnant! I danced Swan Lake at 25 weeks pregnant with Luca, and with Theo, I performed Sleeping Beauty at 12 weeks and continued in The Nutcracker until I was 19 weeks pregnant.
When did you know you wanted to be a mom? I’ve wanted to be a mom for as long as I can remember. I’ve always loved being around children. There’s something incredibly rewarding about their energy, curiosity and honesty. Whether it’s watching them learn, seeing their creativity blossom, or simply enjoying their company, being with kids brings me immense joy and fulfillment. I knew that having children of my own would be even more rewarding, adding a deeper layer of meaning to my life. That’s also why I became a dance teacher — I wanted to share my passion for movement while nurturing the growth and creativity of the next generation of artists.
What is something you swore you would never do before kids that you now do (skip showers, go to a drive through coffee in your pjs, etc.)? Before kids I used to hate leftovers and would cook something new every night, but now I swear by them. I often make large portions to reheat throughout the week, and I’ll even freeze extras to pull out on those busy days when I don’t have the time or energy to cook.
You know you’re a mom when you hear yourself say... “If I have to tell you one more time!” What are you enjoying the most about parenting right now? I love watching the boys learn and grow. Luca, who’s in preschool, is always asking questions about how things work or why things are the way they are. It’s so rewarding when he surprises me by sharing something I didn’t even know he knew. Theo, on the other hand, is just beginning to show his own personality, and it’s amazing to catch glimpses of who he’s becoming. I love seeing how his mind works — he’s incredibly observant, and it’s fascinating to watch what he picks up from his experiences.
No one works harder than mom.
Tell us about your work or volunteerism outside of the home. I’m a principal ballet dancer with the Eugene Ballet Company, as well as an instructor at the Eugene Ballet Academy and the director of their Senior Youth Performing Group. Many people are surprised to learn that my full-time job is as a performing artist, but in addition to performing, I also spend my evenings inspiring and training the next generation of dancers. During our off-season, my husband and I travel across the United States as guest artists, teaching and performing with schools nationwide. What have you learned professionally that has helped you as a mom? Being a professional ballet dancer requires immense discipline and sacrifice. My life revolves around this art form, and it’s not something I can simply “turn off” when I leave work each day. To maintain the high level of performance expected of me, I have to constantly take care of my body, which often means missing out on things. At the same time,
QA &
MOMs love local…
We love locally owned businesses, restaurants, places and organizations. Share your favorite…
…coffee spot: Palace Coffee | Bakery
…hair salon: Gervais Salon & Day Spa
…restaurant to take the kids: Tacovore
…restaurants for a date night: Lion & Owl
…take-out, food truck or quick bite: Sabai Pacific Rim Cuisine
…meetup spot for happy hour: Marché
…local park where kids can let off steam: Amazon Park
…events in your community: Eugene Ballet Company productions
being a mother is one of the most selfless roles a person can take on, the very definition of sacrifice. Yet, the rewards of raising my children — the bonds we share and the love I receive from them — make every sacrifice worthwhile.
Tell us about a recent achievement you’re proud of, or a personal passion or talent. This February, I’m thrilled to perform the title role in Eugene Ballet Company’s production of Carmen. I first danced this role in 2015, and it was the performance that led to my promotion to principal dancer. Carmen remains my favorite role to date — it’s the one I compare every other role to. I’m beyond excited and honored to have the opportunity to bring her to life again. When was the last time you failed? What did you learn? As a performing artist, particularly in live theater, mistakes are inevitable. You invest so much time and energy into perfecting the performance that when something goes wrong, it can feel heartbreaking. When you’re lucky, you only get one or two chances, so when things don’t go as planned, it’s incredibly frustrating. However, with each mistake — and especially since becoming a mother — I’ve learned to let it go and move on. My boys are so much bigger than any mistake I could make on stage. In many ways, this shift in mindset has made me a better dancer, allowing me to embrace the freedom of letting go of the need to be perfect.
Do you have a goal you’d like to accomplish within the next five years? I’m definitely closer to the end of my dance career than the beginning. Within the next five years, I’ll likely be transitioning, or at least approaching the transition, into the next chapter of my life. With that change, I also hope it brings more time spent with my family and less time focused on maintaining the level of physical strength and discipline that my career demands.
If mom’s not happy, nobody’s happy.
Tell us about your upbringing. How did it shape the mother you are today? My mom was instrumental in helping me get to where I am today. As a professional ballet dancer, you can’t reach this level without the unwavering support of someone behind you. I fell in love with dance at a very young age, and with that came years of sacrifice and dedication to achieving my dreams. My mom drove me to every dance class, spent countless hours waiting while I practiced,
supported me through all the tears and challenges and was there to celebrate my successes. Now, I want to offer the same support to my boys, helping them pursue whatever path they choose and achieve their own hopes and dreams.
Which good habit do you wish you started earlier? Cross training! It might seem crazy that I work out for a living and then work out even more, but cross training has given me so much freedom. Not only is it a fantastic way to decompress and relieve stress, but it has also made me a better dancer. I experience fewer injuries and have much more freedom in my movement thanks to the added strength.
What is one thing you never had that you want for your kids? Growing up, I didn’t spend much time outdoors, so my sense of adventure is something I’ve developed as an adult. Now, I’m determined to get my kids outside as much as possible so they can experience the beauty of nature.
What is the quality you like most about yourself? I’m incredibly organized and thrive on planning. Whether it’s managing my schedule, coordinating family activities, or staying on top of daily tasks, having a clear structure helps me stay focused and reduces stress. I love creating lists and setting goals — it gives me a sense of control and ensures everything runs smoothly. Of course, kids have a way of upending my plans, but they’ve taught me to be much better at letting go and adapting when things don’t go as expected.
If you could instantly have one new skill (i.e. foreign language, musical talent, eyes in the back of your head, etc.), what would it be? I wish I could slow down time! Everyone says that when you have kids, time seems to fly by, and it’s more true than I ever could have imagined.
What’s your superpower? I have an incredible memory and can retain a vast amount of information at once. One of the things I’m particularly proud of is my ability to remember choreography from ballets we performed years ago. While part of it is muscle memory, once I’ve learned a piece, it’s stored in my mind for good. This skill is incredibly useful in my profession, where recalling movements and sequences is crucial.
If you could turn any activity into an Olympic sport, in which event would you win a gold medal? Doing a lot of consecutive pirouettes!
Tell us something about you that would surprise people who don’t know you. I’m an avid paddleboarder and absolutely love being out on the water. In fact, I have a special stand on the front of my board that my husband built, allowing me to take my baby, Theo, with me on my paddling adventures. I usually average about 10 miles a day, and it’s the perfect way to stay active while enjoying some peaceful time outdoors.
It’s Saturday afternoon and you suddenly find yourself at home alone for a few hours (we know, it never happens). What do you do? I’m not great at taking time to relax — I actually get a lot of anxiety when I’m doing nothing. When I’m home alone, I tend to tackle as many tasks as I can so that when I’m with my family, I can be fully present and focused on them.
What keeps you up at night (apart from kids, of course)? I’m so exhausted from work, teaching, and taking care of my kids that I barely hit the pillow before I’m fast asleep!
What keeps you sane? I work a lot — dancing from 9 to 5 and teaching four evenings a week until 9 p.m. While I absolutely love what I do, the weekends are what I look forward to most. That’s when I get to spend quality time with my family, and we make the most of it. We try to spend as much time outside as possible, whether we’re camping, hiking or paddleboarding. Resting isn’t really our thing — we’d much rather be outdoors, building memories and sharing experiences with our kids. Those moments are what truly recharge me and keep me grounded. What is your least/most favorite household chore? I really dislike fixing things around the house, so my husband handles all of that. But when it comes to cooking and baking, I absolutely love it. I’m always on Pinterest, looking for new recipes to try. I prefer not to feed my family processed foods, so I enjoy finding creative ideas to keep our meals fresh and interesting.
What’s your guilty pleasure (dark chocolate hidden in the pantry, TJ Maxx, daily latte habit)? A fancy charcuterie board and some ice cream from Salt & Straw.
Outside of your family members, who/what inspires you to be better? Being a mom is hard, and I am so grateful to have an incredible partner and husband by my side to share the load. His support makes all the difference, and I couldn’t do it without him. There are days when the challenges of motherhood feel overwhelming, and during those moments, I often think about single moms. The way they manage everything on their own — balancing work, parenting, and all the other demands of life — is nothing short of remarkable. I am in awe of their strength and resilience.
Photo credit: Ari Denison
Photo credit: Eugene Ballet
Listen to mom.
Is motherhood what you expected? What surprised you the most? Being a mother is so much more rewarding than I ever thought it would be. Before I had children, I had ideas about what motherhood would be like but the reality of it has been far more profound than I could have imagined. There’s a sense of fulfillment in watching them grow, in seeing their unique personalities develop, and in being part of their everyday discoveries. The small moments, like their laughter, their first words, or simply holding their hand, bring a sense of joy that I never knew I needed.
Who and what has influenced the mother you are today? My mom has been a huge inspiration in shaping me as a mother. She instilled in me strength, perseverance and taught me the true meaning of sacrifice — how to put others before myself, especially when it’s difficult. Her example has shaped the foundation of my own motherhood journey, reminding me that love and commitment often require selflessness and resilience. After becoming a mom myself, I find that I look at other mothers with even more awe and admiration than I did before. The way they juggle their responsibilities, their unwavering dedication, and their ability to give so much of themselves — it’s humbling.
What advice would you give your younger mom self? What do you wish you knew then that you know now? You don’t have to be perfect all the time. It’s okay to make mistakes and to ask for help. It doesn’t mean you aren’t capable or that you’re not a good mom. What message would you like to share with other moms? Remember to tell it like it is. We often feel like we fall short or that our best isn’t enough, but the truth is, we are doing incredible things every day. Motherhood isn’t about perfection — it’s about showing up, loving deeply and doing our best. And we don’t have to do it alone. We’re in this together, supporting and lifting one another up every step of the way.
We’re celebrating 20 years of MOM Magazine!
FROM OUR ADVERTISERS TO READERS, AND PHOTOGRAPHERS TO DISTRIBUTORS: THANK YOU FOR HELPING RAISE MOM MAGAZINE!
2005 MOM Magazine was born in Corvallis, weighing .5 ounces and 28 pages in length
Our first Mid-Willamette Valley cover MOM: Linda Van Powell
2006 Grows from four issues a year to six
2010 MOM Magazine launches in Eugene. Our first Lane County cover MOM: Suan Coven
2018 MOM Magazine is sold to Oregon Web Press in Albany, Oregon
Cover MOM, Melissa Hedstrom
2023 MOM Magazine is sold to Active Media, Inc. in Aurora, Oregon
2023 2025
Fun Facts
Locally made from the start — proudly printed by Oregon Web Press in Albany.
2020 Survives the Pandemic!
2025 Happy birthday to us! Celebrating 20 years. My, how our baby has grown… 6x
2016 Expands to Salem Our first Salem cover MOM: Kim Leighty
We’re a small, but mighty team: it’s just 4 people (and 3 of us are part time) behind these beautiful magazines in Eugene, Albany/Corvallis and Salem. 4
Longest running expert is Samaritan Health Services, for 20 years!
Waste Wise Lane County launches free community compost program
Did you know that Lane County residents can receive free compost? From now through 2026, Lane County is giving away 5,000 tons of Love Food Not Waste® compost at eight free compost events hosted in local communities. Additionally, local farms, businesses, churches, nonprofits, and community and school gardens can request free bulk deliveries.
The program is made possible through a USDA grant that aims to serve all county residents and agricultural producers, with a focus on historically underserved communities. Keeping food out of landfills prevents it from breaking down without air, which prevents the generation of methane gas, which can warm the atmosphere up to 28 times more than carbon dioxide over 100 years. Fortunately, composting can help prevent methane emissions.
Love Food Not Waste® compost is an all-purpose compost made entirely from local yard debris and food scraps collected from residents and businesses in Eugene, Springfield and Veneta.
This versatile compost can be an alternative top dressing for flower and planting beds, a seed cover for new lawns, and a natural soil amendment for newly planted gardens. Learn more about ordering compost and upcoming community giveaway events at lanecountyor.gov/compost
Daniel Hiestand has been the Lane County Waste Reduction Outreach Coordinator since 2022.
Waste Wise Lane County empowers residents, schools and businesses with resources to reduce waste and live sustainably.
Let
them cook!
Kids can learn so much in the kitchen, from math and vocabulary, to science and fine motor skills. Let them have a go at these fun recipes.
Soda bread
2 cups flour
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons butter
1 egg
¾ cup buttermilk
Whisk together all the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Cut in the butter and combine with dry ingredients until crumbly.
In a small bowl, mix egg with the buttermilk until combined, then stir it into the dry mixture until moistened.
Now the fun part for kids: knead the dough on a floured surface for about one minute. Shape it into a round loaf and place on a greased cookie sheet.
Bake at 375 degrees for about 30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean and the crust is golden.
Fried Rice
6 tablespoons butter, divided
4 large eggs, whisked
4 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 small white onions, diced
1 cup frozen peas
6 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper
8 cups cooked and chilled rice
6 green onions, thinly sliced
6 to 8 tablespoons soy sauce, or more to taste
4 teaspoons oyster sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Heat 1/2 tablespoon of butter in a large pan over medium-high heat until melted. Add eggs and cook until scrambled, stirring occasionally. Remove egg, and transfer to a separate plate.
Add an additional 1 tablespoon butter to the pan and heat until melted. Add carrots, onion, peas and garlic, then season with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for about five minutes or until the onion and carrots are soft.
Increase heat to high, add in the remaining 1 and 1/2 tablespoons of butter, and stir until melted. Immediately add the rice, green onions, soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using), and stir until combined.
Continue sautéing for an additional three minutes to fry the rice, stirring occasionally. Stir in the eggs. Remove from heat, and stir in the sesame oil until combined. Taste and season with extra soy sauce, if needed.
This recipe is courtesy of OSU Kidspirit. See more at kidspirit.oregonstate.edu/recipes.
There’s so much to learn! Yes, it makes a bit of a mess, and it takes longer to make a recipe. But it’s worth it to build your child’s skills. Adolescent ages can practice:
• How to crack an egg
• Open a can with a can opener
• Peel apples, potatoes, etc.
• Measure dry and liquid ingredients
• Chop and cut with a child-safe knife
• Name and use utensils like spatulas, ladles, etc.
• Practice food safety basics
Does my child really need dental X-rays?
Pediatric dentists occasionally get requests from parents to forgo dental X-rays, as parents have concerns about radiation exposure. Rest assured, the radiation exposure from standard digital dental X-rays is minimal — in fact, it’s less than 80% compared to traditional film. And the benefits of using this standard tool far outweigh the small risks.
As dentists, we can visually see decay on chewing surfaces and exposed surfaces, but without X-rays we can’t rule out decay in between the teeth. In children, 70% of cavities form between the teeth.
X-rays also allow us to see under the gumline, which reveals the position of hidden permanent teeth. This is helpful in advising parents on future orthodontic needs. Also, having X-rays on file over time allows us to monitor any changes.
We understand the desire to make the best choices for our children and their health. If you have any concerns about X-rays, have a conversion with your pediatric dentist. We want what’s best for children, too.
treehousekidsdental.com 541-515-6631
1611 J street Springfield, OR office@treehousekidsdental.com
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Dr. Erin Estep is a boardcertified pediatric dentist who owns Treehouse Kids Dentist in Springfield.
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Oregon’s Battle of the Books
If you have school-aged children, you’ve likely come across Oregon’s Battle of the Books, or OBOB for short.
This annual reading program began in 2006 to encourage children to read. In teams of typically four to five, students read books from a designated list. They then “battle” against other teams in a question-and-answer style tournament. Teams earn points for correct answers. Winning teams advance and can even compete at a regional level.
At the heart of the OBOB program is a mission to encourage reading and recognize readers, as well as “to broaden reading interests, to increase reading comprehension, promote academic excellence and to promote cooperative learning and teamwork among students.”
I have the answer!
Book titles are chosen for three divisions: third to fifth, sixth to eighth and ninth to twelfth grades. Titles are selected from a variety of genres and at appropriate levels for each division. OBOB aims for “high quality, well-reviewed, age-appropriate titles,” many of which are Newberry and Oregon Reader’s Choice award winners.
The committees selecting the book titles strive for literature representing a variety of styles and viewpoints, with diverse and inclusive selections. OBOB notes that each child is not expected to read all of the books on the year’s list; if a parent has concerns about the content of a particular book, they can have their child opt out of reading it.
The books are usually made available through the child’s school to be checked out one or two at a time.
Local public libraries should also have multiple copies or electronic editions of the current OBOB books.
A recent study found that children who read for pleasure were “associated with fewer mental health problems, including being less likely to have attention problems, fewer symptoms of stress, and fewer behavioral problems.”
Psychological Medicine, 2023. “Early-initiated childhood reading for pleasure: associations with better cognitive performance, mental well-being and brain structure in young adolescence.” Cambridge Press.
The OBOB program is run primarily by volunteers through the Oregon Association of School Libraries and funded partially through the Library Services and Technology Act. Learn more about OBOB, find your region or get information about Book Grants for your school at oregonbattleofthebooks.org.
While the OBOB selections are considered Young Adult or YA in library lingo, that doesn’t mean they’re just for kids. Try reading the books at the same time as your children — there are exceptionally good titles and it will give you and your child something to bond over. It’s the perfect time of year to get cozy with a book. Book lists from previous years are available on the organization’s website.
Just a few of the recent OBOB titles...
Grades 3-5
The Wild Robot by Peter Brown Leonard (My Life as a Cat) by Carlie Sorosiak
Frizzy by Claribel A. Ortega and Rose Bousamra
Grades 6-8
Tales of a Seventh-Grade Lizard Boy by Jonathan Hill Daughter of the Deep by Rick Riordan Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan
Grades 9-12
The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean Rayne & Delilah’s Midnite Matinee by Jeff Zentner
Eugene's only female orthodontist joins the Chvatal team
We’re proud to introduce our newest orthodontist, Dr. Jin Xu. Dr. Xu grew up in China, where she remembers getting braces. “I had an underbite as a kid, and the day I got my braces off, one of my friends complimented my smile and commented how happy I looked,” she said.
“Now an orthodontist myself, I cannot wait to help my patients get the beautiful and confident smiles that they desire, and have fun together along the way!”
Dr. Xu moved to the U.S. for high school at the age of 15. She has lived in Connecticut, Georgia, Washington, Pennsylvania and Oregon. The beautiful PNW is hands-down her favorite part of the country. She enjoys paddle boarding in the summer, hiking in the fall, admiring the cherry blossoms in the spring, and spending time with friends and family all year long.
Dr. Xu earned bachelor and master degrees from the University of Washington, and a doctor of medicine in dentistry from the University of Pittsburgh where she graduated valedictorian. Her orthodontics residency training was at the University of Pennsylvania. She is currently the only female orthodontist in Eugene.
Fun fact: she was once a part-time critic for one of China’s most popular movie review channels. When you meet Dr. Xu, ask who was the first celebrity she interviewed.
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(541) 683-8490 • EugeneBraces.com 1400 Valley River Drive, 240, Eugene 1130 E. Main Street, Cottage Grove 2215 Willamette Street, Ste. B, Eugene
