WNCParent May 2010 by Stacey

WNCMOM.COM, THE PLACE WHERE LOCAL MOMS CONNECT

c o n t e n t s Introducing our This month’s features first Cover Kid

3 Travel and learn

Three Southern cities offer historic learning opportunities.

Let me tell you, WNC has some cute kids. This month’s cover photo, by Sonya Stone, is the result of a new project at WNC Parent called Cover Kids. Inspired by a sister publication, our advertising Product Manager Miranda Weerheim organized the effort to find fresh local faces to grace the cover of our magazine. We asked for submissions earlier in the year, and dozens of readers responded. After the difficult task of narrowing down our field of contestants, seven finalists from across WNC spent part of a Saturday in April posing in various sets for Sonya as we aimed to get portraits for the next four magazine covers. This summer, you’ll see the results of that session. Another new feature this month is Parent 2 Parent, a Q&A with a local parent who’s found a balance between work and family. Our first profile is of Julie Stehling, a co-owner of Early Girl Eatery, on Page 30. Don’t forget to take some time this month to thank your mom. Gift ideas for Mother’s Day — May 9 — are on Page 20.

6 Go camping!

What you need to know to start camping with your family.

11 Save on vacation

Tips for taking a break without breaking the bank.

13 Disney on the cheap

10 ways you can save money at Walt Disney World.

14 Harry’s at Universal

We have the details on the new Harry Potter exhibit in Orlando.

16 Dog-friendly stays

Bring the family pet for some pampering at these local resorts.

20Splurge on mom

Need ideas for Mother’s Day? We have 10.

Katie Wadington, editor

27 Bright and cute

49 Shrimp for dinner

30 Parent 2 Parent

50 Sweet breads

Trade in your child’s boring nightlight for one of these.

Meet Julie Stehling, co-owner of Early Girl Eatery.

In every issue

Divorced Families...............22 Kids’ Voices ......................24 Home-school Happenings ....28 Artful Parent .....................32 Growing Together ...............38 Show & Tell.......................40 Librarian’s Pick..................42 Story Times ......................42 Kids & Sports....................44 Kitchen Kids .....................52 Video Games.....................54 Calendar ..........................56 Puzzles........................59-60

New ideas for fixing shrimp, Americans’ favorite seafood. These breads aren’t just for sandwiches — try dessert.

On the cover

Kiona-Rose Arace, of Hendersonville. Portrait by Sonya Stone Photography, sonyastone.com.

Are you a member?

Join the conversation and connect with other parents at WNCmom.com. Look for WNC Parent on Facebook and Twitter.

P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802 828-232-5845 I www.wncmom.com PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Randy Hammer WNC PARENT EDITOR Katie Wadington - 232-5829 kwadington@citizen-times.com CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Nancy Sluder nsluder@citizen-times.com

FEATURES EDITOR Bruce Steele bsteele@citizen-times.com STAFF WRITER Barbara Blake bblake@citizen-times.com

ADVERTISING/CIRCULATION Miranda Weerheim - 232-5980 mweerheim@gannett.com CALENDAR CONTENT E-mail calendar@wncparent.com SUBMISSION DEADLINES Advertising deadline for the June issue is May 18 Calendar items are due by May 15

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A FAMILY TRAVEL GUIDE TO 3 HISTORIC CITIES

EDUCATION MEETS

ADVENTURE By Lockie Hunter ◆ WNC Parent contributor

With so many family destinations within a short drive of Western North Carolina it’s easy to find fun married with educational opportunities. Three nearby historic cities offer top-notch family activities. Here is a sampling.

Savannah

Savannah’s bounty is certain to delight both parent and child. Many of Savannah’s historical excursions are outside, providing the opportunity to learn history while experiencing the natural world. Begin your trip with a family stroll along Historic River Street’s Pedestrian Walk. Featuring a park and a pier, children can feed the wildlife while adults secure tickets to a river tour or dolphin tour. Learn history afloat on one of Savannah’s Riverboat Tours. Hear your captain’s historical tales of the city woven with facts about Savannah’s modern day port. Another watery attraction not to be missed is an Alligators Galore Tour. Choose from coastal eco dolphin gator cruises, fossil shark tooth excursions, kayak outer island adventures or port cruises. Beverly Hollingsworth, with Alligators Galore, said that you can “design your own personalized trip with local master naturalists. The trip is a photographer’s and outdoor lover’s delight!” Once back on dry land, consider taking A Child’s View of Savannah Walking Tour with guide Ted Eldridge.

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Enjoy time on the water during one of Savannah’s many water excursion opportunities. He drew on his skills and experience as a lifelong educator and parent to develop this scavenger hunt, geared to ages 4-12. “I offer a verbal challenge and then I lead them to the next area on the walking history tour of Savannah’s beautiful Historic District,” Eldridge said. Become a Junior Ranger at Fort Pulaski. Offering interpretive programs including musket firings and fort tours, Fort Pulaski is located in a national park, and the salt marsh boasts 11 protected species of wildlife. The fort’s lighthouse overlook trail allows visitors to better view the ethereal Cockspur Island Lighthouse.

For the child (or adult!) who loves railroads, chug on over to the Roundhouse Railroad Museum. Meander through the seven historic railroad structures and enjoy exhibits explaining the workings of a stream engine. Finally, when the kids simply need to let off some steam by running, jumping, playing and climbing, head to Forsyth Park. With 30 acres of playgrounds and large lawns shaded by large mature oaks your family can picnic, fly kites or just relax amid the magnolias. Continues on Page 4

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TRAVEL GUIDE Continued from Page 3

Williamsburg and the historic triangle Offering three historic destinations within easy drive of one another, the objective of Williamsburg, Jamestowne and Yorktown is to offer hands-on history with a bang. History truly does come to life at the 301-acre Colonial Williamsburg. Hundreds of shops and homes are reconstructed to their original details. “Colonial Williamsburg is a fantastic destination for families with kids of all ages to enjoy,” says Katherine Laucks, a spokeswoman for the site.. Children will be enchanted with this living village as they ask questions of the shopkeepers, all dressed in period costume. “The Children’s Orientation Walking Tour provides families with must-see stops during their visit,” says Laucks, who adds that “Colonial Williamsburg’s staff is expert at speaking with kids of all ages, helping them to be part of the story by helping them participate in demonstrations and programs and keeping them engaged so the entire family is happy.” Scavenger hunts at the art museums are specifically for kids, and all historic area buildings and programs are family friendly. Get your hands dirty tending a colonial garden or join the militia and march! James M. Perry, acting public affairs officer for Colonial National Historic Park, says Historic Jamestowne, the site of the first permanent English settlement in North America, is a place of beginnings. “Walk in the footsteps of Captain John Smith and Pocahontas as we explore the foundations of our representative government. Trace the origins of our modern language, laws and customs from the beginning of America,” Perry says. The Jamestown Junior Ranger program is designed for visitors between the ages of 6-12. “It generally takes about two hours,” Perry says, “and gives

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A FAMILY TRAVEL GUIDE TO 3 HISTORIC CITIES VISITOR INFORMATION CENTERS ◆ Savannah: savannahvisit.com, 877-SAVANNAH, 912-944-0455 ◆ Williamsburg area: visitwilliamsburg.com, 757-229-6511, 800-368-6511 ◆ Charleston: explorecharleston.com, 800-868-8118, 843-853-8000

GANNETT

The Fife and Drum Corps, Colonial Williamsburg’s musical ambassadors, perform weekends in the spring and fall and daily during the summer months. our young visitors, and their parents, a good background into the history of Jamestown.” The Pinch Pot program is a hands-on, 20-minute children’s program that will show participants how the American Indians and English settlers made and used pottery. “Each child receives a small ball of clay to make a souvenir pot using the pinch method employed by American Indians. All families with children are encouraged to attend,” Perry says. Jamestowne Settlement allows families to view the Virginia colony at its roots in the 1600s as they interact with the cultures of the Powhatan Indians,

Europeans and Africans of the time. Families can explore a life-size colonists’ fort or climb aboard replicas of the three ships that sailed from England to Virginia. The settlement even offers homeschool programs with a variety of curriculum-based education programs for a range of grade levels. There are special admission combinations that allow access to both the settlement and the Yorktown Victory center. Yorktown Battlefield is a perfect find for those older children studying American history. As the site of the last big battle of the American Revolution, a trip to Yorktown includes artillery demonstrations and a young soldiers program.

Charleston Charleston and the barrier islands are well known for sun, surf and seafood, but history also walks the streets in the Palmetto City. Begin your trip in the historic district. Cool off with ocean breezes in Waterfront Park then promenade past colorful Antebellum mansions to White Point Gardens at the Battery, where the locals still go for a stroll. Breathe in the history of this town under droopingoaks while climbing on the Civil War-era cannons. Fort Sumter and the U.S.S. Yorktown are both visible from the Battery. Combine two extraordinary bits of American history into one educational morning. A trip to the Lowcountry is not complete without climbing aboard the colossal U.S.S. Yorktown aircraft carrier at the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. Nick Tompkins, from Patriots Point, notes that “the Naval and Maritime Museum strives to preserve the living history of our nation’s bravest men and women while telling their stories in honorable, educational and engaging ways. It’s history you can touch.” From Patriots Point, hop on a tour boat to historic Fort Sumter, the site of the first shots of the Civil War. Go in the morning before the sun is at its hottest. Boone Hall Plantation, in nearby Mount Pleasant, has been growing crops for 320 years, making it one of America’s oldest working plantations. Children will enjoy the many activities including a plantation coach tour, a colorful butterfly pavilion and a live Gullah culture presentation. Be sure to visit the new Black History in America exhibit on display in nine original slave cabins. Recently renovated 80-acre state park Charles Towne Landing showcases exhibits designed by naturalist Jim Fowler. Boasting a 53-foot replica of a colonial trading ship and a reproduction of a 17th-century original settler village, Charles Towne Landing is also home to Continues on Page 10

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SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Stephanie Crawford-Wilson, of Asheville, with daughter Cannon, 7, in front of their tent, while camping at Cheoah Point Campgrounds on Santeetlah Lake, near the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest and Robbinsville.

Camping 101

Families can bond under the stars By Pam J. Hecht ◆ WNC Parent contributor

Going camping is more than just a relatively inexpensive vacation. Living outdoors allows families to bond while appreciating the natural world, free from the distractions of home. Here are some tips for making your first family camping trip a success.

The right campsite Stick to a campground that’s close to home, so if necessary, it’s easy to drive back, says Michele Maertens, National Parks Service/Pisgah District interpreter. Also, pick a place near civilization — if you forget something, you can go buy it, she adds. Try car camping first, where you can drive to your campsite and keep your car there, says Jay Middleton, manager of REI, an outdoor equipment store in Asheville. That way, you don’t have to lug gear anywhere and can keep supplies in the car.

John McFerrin, owner of Take a Hike Mountain Outfitters in Black Mountain, has camped with his two kids since they were toddlers. For beginning campers, he suggests developed campgrounds, like those at state or national parks, with rangers on duty for assistance. Or, opt for privately run family campgrounds. Campgrounds featuring activities like swimming/tubing, easy hiking trails and flat areas for biking, are great, says Maertens, and with lots of families around, it’s easy to make friends. National park campgrounds have ranger-led activities like hikes and campfires, and a Junior Ranger

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program for kids to earn badges and certification, she adds. Some campgrounds also have nearby nature centers and playgrounds. Camp at locations like Maggie Valley, that are close to a variety of attractions for kids, or pitch your tent near a river or the beach, “which is always fun and interesting,” says Stephanie Crawford-Wilson, of Asheville, who has camped with her 7-year-old daughter since she was a baby. Check for amenities like bathrooms, Continues on Page 8

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Camping 101 Continued from Page 6

picnic tables, electricity hookups, running water, fire pits and grills. Call ahead — some places allow you to reserve a campsite, but fill up from days to months in advance.

Gear up Outdoor outfitter shops and big discount stores sell camping equipment. Renting camping equipment may be the ticket for the family’s first time out. REI has a rental program for the camping basics, like sleeping pads or air mattresses, tents, camp stoves and sleeping bags. Second Gear, a consignment shop in West Asheville, offers both used and new camping equipment and you can bring back items to re-sell. Find out if the campground has firewood for sale or if you must bring your own, along with some type of fire starter and a long lighter. Have the kids collect kindling — small twigs — from your own

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Susie Thompson and Bruce Hill set up this bug tent over the picnic table when the family camped at Lake Santeetlah. backyard before the trip, suggests Maertens. Bring charcoal for cooking on a grill. Cooking with a camp stove is easier than on a fire, especially if it’s raining or you’re tired, says Charlie Peek, public information officer for N.C. State Parks, who camps with his 9-year-old daughter. Pack food in a cooler and bring foldable chairs, healthy snacks and play equipment like a ball and glove or horse shoes,” says Middleton. Bring rain gear, a lantern and extra clothes and toilet paper. Consider a

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“bug tent” — a bug-proof screen tent — for eating or hanging out. Susan Thompson, of Asheville, who camps regularly with her husband and 5-year-old daughter, places bath mats inside and outside the tent door “to keep little feet from dragging in the dirt or sand” and rather than sleeping bags, makes a “family bed” using sheets during warm weather. Maertens, who has camped with her two teenage kids since they were born, always brings things for them to do like books, cards and games, she says. “When they were little, I gave each of them a cosmetic case filled with things like crayons to keep them occupied while I prepared meals,” she says. Pick something fun that they only get while camping — a cool book, their own flashlight or special camping recipes — there’s “lots of neat stuff at the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center,” she adds. “Shovels and beach toys can be fun even in the woods — you can scoop up stream water, build little fairy forts and look under rocks in streams,” adds Thompson.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY CAMPGROUNDS IN WNC A sampling of campgrounds in our area ◆ Lake Powhatan Campground, Asheville, 670-5627 ◆ Davidson River Campground, Pisgah Forest, 862-5960 ◆ Cascade Lake Recreation Area, Pisgah Forest, 877-6625 ◆ Mount Mitchell State Park, Burnsville, 675-4611 ◆ Mount Pisgah Campground, Canton, 648-2644 ◆ Black Mountain Campground, Burnsville, 675-5616 ◆ Curtis Creek Campground, Old Fort, 652-2144 ◆ North Mills River Recreation Area, Mills River, 890-3284 “Don’t forget the marshmallows for roasting over the fire,” says CrawfordWilson, whose daughter will ask neighboring campers for some if they’ve forgotten theirs.

◆ Lake James State Park, Nebo, 6525047 ◆ South Mountains State Park, Connelly Springs, 433-4772 ◆ Van Hook Glade Campground, Highlands, 526-5918 ◆ Cheoah Point Campground, Robbinsville, 479-6431 ◆ Nolichucky Gorge Campgrounds & Resort, Erwin, TN, 423-743-8876 ◆ Smokemont, Cades Cove or Deep Creek campgrounds, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, 865-436-1200 Online campground information: recreation.gov, ncparks.gov, cradleofforestry.com, cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/recreation/recreate.htm, nps.gov/grsm/index.htm.

Plan ahead Do a test run at home and try out your cooking equipment and tent, says Peek, and decide how you’ll wash dishes and

where you’ll put dirty clothes. Plan menus carefully and expect to eat more than you think you will, he adds. “Think through what tools you’ll need, like pots or pans, and bring one of everything — you don’t need much,” says Crawford-Wilson. Check the weather before you go, McFerrin advises. Involve kids in planning for the trip and have them bring a journal to record their experiences, says Cindy Carpenter, interpretive specialist with the Cradle of Forestry. “Nature is a wonderful teacher,” Carpenter says. Learning new camping skills and getting over fears like sleeping in the dark give kids a sense of accomplishment, she adds. “Be open to what can happen and have a sense of humor — you might not get the exact campsite you wanted or the weather can suddenly change,” says CrawfordWilson. “Remember that when kids get out into the woods, they love it and every time you go, it gets even better.” Pam J. Hecht is a freelance writer and editor. E-mail her at pamjh8@gmail.com.

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A FAMILY TRAVEL GUIDE TO 3 HISTORIC CITIES Continued from Page 5

At Boone Hall Plantation in Mount Pleasant, outside of Charleston, kids can learn about slavery and Gullah culture by touring slave cabins.

many species of animals that would have greeted the early settlers. End your day at the Old Charleston Market watching local women weave their craft of seagrass baskets. Purchase a one-of-a-kind basket to take home or peruse the many market stalls looking for Lowcountry treasures from spices to shell jewelry to sunhats.

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Contact freelance writer Lockie Hunter at lockie@lockiehunter.com.

W N C PA R E N T | M AY 2 010

How to spend less while on vacation Gannett

Financial counselor Joe Sangl, author of “I Was Broke and Now I’m Not,” recommends searching the following websites as part of planning vacations: ◆ RetailMeNot: Includes a bank of coupon codes specific to items and stores. ◆ DealNews: Strives to provide information on the best deals for items sold online and includes forums with consumer input. ◆ Hotwire or Priceline: Allows bids for offers on travel, lodging and vacation

packages. Use BiddingForTravel.com and BetterBidding.com in conjunction. ◆ Kayak: Culls information from various sites into one travel search engine.

Do’s and don’ts Sangl, travel agent Cynthia Masters and mom of four Kim Stravolo, a former certified public accountant, offer these tips for saving money on vacation: ◆ Do: Estimate how much money you’ll need; save that much in advance. ◆ Don’t: Give in to all the whims of your children.

◆ Do: Take cash or prepaid gift cards for discretionary spending. ◆ Don’t: Grow lazy, because convenience costs. For instance, car rentals are cheaper away from the airport. ◆ Do: Research deals online, search for coupons and ask for better rates. ◆ Don’t: Opt for your standard vacation without considering cheaper alternatives. ◆ Do: Seek lodging with a kitchen, and pack groceries, snacks and lunches. MyKidsEatFree.com has information on child dining discounts.

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10 for saving time, money at tips

Disney World

By Julie Saunders WNC Parent contributor

The adage that time is money is especially true while vacationing at theme parks. Here are some tips to help you make the most of both.

10. Filler up. Refill water bottles at

Ticket take. Be realistic about everyone’s stamina and level of interest. Park hopping costs extra time and money. Invest in an annual pass if you will visit seven or more days per year. Annual passholders also receive exclusive discounts on resorts, food and merchandise.

water fountains. Bring individual packets of flavoring (like Crystal Light) to mask the local water.

Curb impulses. Set children’s expectation regarding souvenirs. If they are old enough, explain to them that they each have “X” amount to spend however they choose, but no more.

Make meals count. Share meals when possible (portions are generous). Bring breakfast and snack items like granola bars, bagels, cereal or trail mix with you. Prices at table service restaurants are cheaper for lunch than dinner and often offer the same selection. If on the Disney Dining Plan, consider saving your snack credit for breakfast.

Be a joiner. Apply for credit cards that offer rewards points redeemable toward resorts or flights. Also take advantage of airline and car rental company customer loyalty programs.

Free things. Entertainment, such as the magician at the Boardwalk area, or watching the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the beach at the Polynesian Resort are free. Use Disney’s FASTPASS system, which helps maximize time by reserving a time to come back and ride popular rides instead of languishing in line.

Resort roulette. Families with small children might prefer a condo off-site to save money and have a kitchen. If you plan to spend every waking moment in the parks, consider a Disney value resort to reduce travel time and be eligible for extended park hours, available only to resort guests.

Purchase your resorts’ refillable mug (it only takes five refills to recoup the cost of the mug). And the number one tip for saving time and money at Walt Disney World: PHOTOS BY GANNETT NEWS SERVICE

Disney’s “Fastpass” helps guests save time by more easily navigating lines for rides.

Have a plan. If you spend time wondering what to do next, indecision could become paralyzing. Following a touring plan will save time (and frustration). Select pre-set plans or create your own at touringplans.com.

Get going. Arriving at the turnstiles 20-30 minutes prior to park opening enables visitors to walk right onto the rides for a few hours before the masses arrive. You can get more done between opening and 11 a.m. than between 11 a.m.-6 p.m. For ticket prices and park hours, visit disneyworld.com or call 407-WDISNEY (934-7639).

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PHOTOS SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Hogwarts Castle sits above Hogsmeade at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort. It opens in June.

Wizardry, magic await in Orlando By Julie Saunders WNC Parent contributor Muggles, take heart! Opening June 18 at Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure theme park in Orlando, Fla., the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter brings the magic of the movies to the masses. With buildings and attractions evoking the popular J.K. Rowling books, this new land promises to immerse visitors into the heart of Hogsmeade, the fictional town in the Harry Potter series. “Guests will experience firsthand a completely new adventure featuring the iconic characters, amazing creatures and

recognizable locations they’ve only read in the books or seen in the films,” said Thierry Coup, creative director for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Located in what was the Lost Continent section of Islands of Adventure, existing attractions were rethemed to be more Potter-esque. Fire and Ice Dueling Dragons inversion roller coaster became Dragon Challenge and the Flying Unicorn kiddie-coaster is now Flight of the Hippogriff — a half eagle, half horse magical creature. The centerpiece of the land is Hogwarts Castle, home of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Entering

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the castle is like stepping into the Harry Potter books or films. The queue through the castle snakes past familiar scenes, including the Gryffindor common room and the portrait hall where the never-before-seen four founders of the school, Godric Gryffindor, Helga Hufflepuff, Rowena Ravenclaw and Salazar Slytherin come to life, interacting with visitors. Dumbledore greets you and invites you to tour the school. Upon entering the Defense against the Dark Arts classroom, Harry, Ron and Hermione suddenly appear from underneath Harry’s invisibility cloak and coax you into ditching the tour and fol-

lowing them instead. This is the beginning of the land’s signature attraction, a thrill ride called Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. Following the trio, you travel by Floo powder and begin your adventure, which uses An authentic replica from the Harry a cutting-edge combi- Potter films, guests will pass by Hagrid’s nation of advanced Hut on their way to the Flight of the Hippogriff family-friendly roller coaster. robotic ride system technology with immersive filmmaking, letting you soar over Hogwarts, dodge a dragon attack, play Quidditch and more. Be sure to watch out for the Whomping Willow. The Sorting Hat gets into the act, delivering the pre-ride safety spiel. From queue to exit, this attraction could take up to an hour, so be prepared to stay awhile after you enter. In addition to Hogwarts Castle, the area will feature Hagrid’s Hut and eateries the Three Broomsticks and Hogs Head, featuring butterbeer and pumpkin juice (Rowling herself approved the recipes). Duck into Honeydukes for chocolate frogs and other sweets. Greeting guests at the entrance to the land will be the Hogwarts Express train.

TIPS FOR VISITING Expect the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to draw massive crowds and plan accordingly with these tips. ◆ Arrive 30 minutes before the park opens and go direction to Hogwarts Castle. Ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey first, then hit the roller coasters, leaving shops and other themed elements, such as Hagrid’s Hut, for leisurely touring. ◆ If attendance is as huge as predicted, consider investing in Universal’s Express Pass, which allows you to go to the front of the line. Prices vary seasonally and the pass must be purchased online. This is in addition to admission ticket prices. Expect the Universal Express Pass to cost $26-$56 per day. Express Passes are valid for one entry

per participating attraction per day (no do overs on your favorite roller coaster). Guests staying in any of the three Universal resort hotels — Hard Rock Hotel, Royal Pacific Resort or Portofino Bay Hotel — receive complimentary Express Passes with their stay. ◆ Ticket prices vary based on length of stay. Savings increase with the number of days purchased. Save $10 when ordering online. Four-night vacation packages at Universal partner hotels, including a three-day ticket, accommodations, early entry and breakfast at the Three Broomsticks start at $285. For park hours and complete ticket and package information, including Universal’s Express Pass, visit universalorlando.com or call 877-801-9720.

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A vacation for Spot

No need to leave the dogs at home when you need a little R&R By Barbara Blake WNC Parent writer Most of us live for those weeks we call “vacation,” or even the occasional long weekends that offer respite from work and the everyday stressors that pepper our lives. But for pet lovers, there’s a stressor that goes along with planning those full and mini-vacations: What to do with the dogs? There are two pet-centered resort destinations in Western North Carolina that welcome dogs and their humans, offering amenities ranging from fields to run in, ponds to swim in and fluffy bath towels for Fido after a joyous romp through the creek. They offer equally

appealing options for people, from Whirlpools to organic linens to gourmet breakfasts and rustic cabins with fireplaces. Here’s a look at some of the offerings, from a full-fledged vacation to a weekend-getaway with your four-legged friends.

Bed and Breakfast at Ponder Cove

pondercove.com, 689-7304

Owned by Martha Abraham and Gary Rawlins, this Dutch Colonial contemporary home surrounded by 91 private acres outside Mars Hill offers total seclusion, private baths, double-whirlpool tubs, king beds with organic linens, fireplaces, wifi and gourmet breakfasts. And

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that’s just for the humans. “When our stay ended and we were ready to leave, our dog Clancy sat right down in the driveway and wouldn’t get into the Jeep to go home,” said Christine Rimay, of Lake Norman, who comes to Ponder Cove with her husband, Marty Tindall, and their dogs, at least twice each year. “You can feel the anticipation and excitement in the Jeep as we start the drive down Bethel Road to Ponder Cove; my husband and I start to feel relaxed and can’t wait to park ourselves in the Adirondack chairs high up on the hillside,” Rimay said. “And my dogs begin their high-pitched whines anticipating the freedom of roaming the acres of wilderness.”

Ponder Cove welcomes any dogs who are friendly and nonaggressive; shot records are required, and people must clean up after their pets outdoors. Otherwise, the pooches are invited to roam the hillsides and trails of the 91 acres and enjoy socializing with other vacationing dogs throughout the property. “We take better care of your dog than you would at home — that’s what you’re paying for at Ponder Cove,” said Abraham. “And we really nurture the pet owner as well.” Raquel Wynn and her husband, Philip, of Nashville, Tenn., can attest to that. “Ponder Cove is a fabulous place to get away with your pups; the house is beautiful, the surroundings pristine, the breakfasts scrumptious and the hosts are wonderful,” Wynn said. “My husband and I love to go there with our pups, but we love it so much up there, we have even vacationed there without the dogs. We give it four out of four paws.” Rates at the bed and breakfast begin at $165 a night; the charge is $25 per weekend per dog, or $10 per night for extended stays. Continues on Page 18

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Dogs are the center of attention at the Bed and Breakfast at Ponder Cove near Mars Hill, where a birthday party for a pup is standard fare.

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A vacation for Spot

Continued from Page 17

Barkwells

barkwells.com, 891-8288 Barkwells, owned by Ellen and Michael Winner and near Mills River, includes seven luxury vacation cabins, eight acres of fenced meadows and a large pond for swimming and doggy water games, with a paddle boat and dock. The cabins have hot tubs, fireplaces and Internet access, and include gated front porches with rocking chairs, doggy doors and private fenced yards around each cabin so pooches can enjoy the outdoors while their people take day trips. There also is a hose by each cabin for water-loving pups, and fluffy dog towels waiting inside. Debbie Whalen, of Hilton Head, S.C., who comes often to Barkwells with her husband, Brian, and their cairn terrier, Kip, calls the resort “a slice of heaven for

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our dog, who can run loose with others and really be a dog.” “Ellen and Michael have created something very special, exactly the kind of place you’d conjure if you imagined the perfect dog/people vacation,” Whalen said. “Many accommodations that permit pets offer little in the way of comfort and amenities for their owners, but Barkwells cabins are spotless, modern, completely outfitted with great views, particularly of the morning sunrise. We love Barkwells,” she said. Patricia Young-Herrington, a veterinarian from Lake Wylie, S.C., and her husband, Terry Herrington, bring their three dogs to Barkwells for a getaway at a “safe, well-planned, pet-friendly destination.” Young-Herrington said she wanted to let her “children” speak on what they love most about Barkwells. “I love to run, and here I can run and run,” said Bridger, a 3-year-old Great Dane. “At the end of our stay, I’m com-

pletely exhausted.” Added Hiro, a 2-year-old Great Dane: “I get to make new friends and practice my social skills.” And from Stryker, a 6-year-old Irish setter: “Ah, the great outdoors … squirrels, swimming, chickens! What more could a guy ask for?” Rates begin at $210 per night. There is no extra charge for up to two dogs.

Pet-friendly accommodations in Gatlinburg, Tenn. ◆ Cobbly Nob Rentals. Private resort near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park offers petfriendly cabins and chalets. 866-626-5207, cobbly.com. ◆ Garden Plaza Hotel. This hotel is located on Historic Nature Trail, near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. 877-784-6835, gardenplazahoteltn.com. ◆ Mountain Shadows Resort. Cabin rentals in a log home community. Property features outdoor hot tubs, indoor Jacuzzis and pool tables. Pets allowed in some cabins. 877-653-9429, mtnshadwos.com.

Pet-friendly accommodations in Western North Carolina ◆ Pine Crest Inn & Restaurant, Tryon. Built in 1906, featuring 35 guest rooms, deluxe suites and private cottages, some of them pet-friendly. 800-6333001, pinecrestinn.com. ◆ Woodlands Inn of Sapphire. Located near the border of Nantahala National Forest and Pisgah National Forest near Sapphire Lakes. Dogs are welcome for $10 per day. 966-4709, woodlandsinn.net.

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Pooches and their people play together in the pond and on the dock at Barkwells, a resort near Mills River catering to dogs and their owners.

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GIFTS

FROM MOM TO MOM

Local retailers offer appealing options for Mother’s Day By Barbara Blake ◆ WNC Parent writer

Little girls who spent years making popsicle-stick picture frames and clay flowerpots for their moms on Mother’s Day eventually grow up, and many become moms themselves. And if you’re a mother who still has your own mom, that means giving as well as receiving on that special day. Because no two moms are alike, there’s a wealth of possibilities for gift-giving, whether the special lady in your life is into high fashion, gardening, being pampered or learning more about Asheville’s landmarks and hideaways. Here are some ideas, all from locally owned, independent businesses.

◆ Older moms who may have

downsized after the kids are grown will enjoy charming terrariums that don’t take up much space and require little care, but still provide a cheery touch of green. Fresh-cut flowers, an apothecary with organic herbs, and plants of all shapes and sizes also are available at Farm Girl, next door to Short Street Cakes at 227 Haywood Road in West Asheville. Terrarium prices range from $12 to $35. farmgirlgardendesigns.com, 505-4115.

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Hofman Studios in the River Arts District offers a unique gift opportunity: hand-built porcelain vases, mugs, dinnerware and other pieces using antique lace — including your mother’s, grandmother’s or greatgrandmother’s if you like — to create oneof-a-kind treasures that honor the special women in yourfamily. $25-$450. hofmanstudios.com, 232-1401.

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◆

It’s hard to imagine a mother who wouldn’t enjoy a luxurious bath soap from Sensibilities Day Spa, with shops at 59 Haywood St. downtown and at 2 Town Square in Biltmore Park. These oversized soaps, intensely fragranced with essential oils and milled seven times for maximum richness, are imported from Portugal and come in scents like red poppy, orange amber, grapefruit fig, mimosa bath, melon and honeysuckle. $17. sensibilities-spa.com, 253-3222, 687-8760.

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For mothers who enjoy wearing bold, colorful accessories with a bit of an edge, check out the hand-cut and hand-sewn felt pins and necklaces at Bellagio Art to Wear in Biltmore Village. With intricate detail in multiple layers of felt, these wearable objets d’art are not inexpensive but are guaranteed to be one-of-a-kind. $56-$80 for pins, $166 for the necklace. bellagioarttowear.com, 277-8100.

◆ Moms of any age will

enjoy the luxury of a full or partial makeover at Beauty Parade at 783 Haywood Road in West Asheville. The retro-themed full-service salon offers gift certificates for cuts, color, curl, makeup, manicures, pedicures, waxing and more. And the charge for a roller set for women age 65 and older is just $20. beautyparadesalon.com, 257-4073.

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For “green” moms who enjoy being kind to the environment, consider these eco-friendly journals by Journal Junky at Write On, a stationery and gift shop at 28 N. Lexington Ave., downtown. Handmade with recycled paper, the journals are lightweight and come in a variety of whimsical cover designs. At $12, the price is friendly, too. 225-1958.

◆ For moms who enjoy

goods from exotic locales, Dyed in the Wool Designs in the River Arts District offers hand-dyed and felted wool and silk accessories, along with hand-stitched handbags and shoes imported from Turkey and featuring one-of-akind designs using handwoven kilims, or tapestry-style rugs. Bags range from $75-$140, shoes from $90$150. dyedinthewooldesigns.com, 255-2956.

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A custom-made dress, handmade jewelry or simply a festive scarf like this spring green print ($18) should please the fashionconscious mom who enjoys shopping with her daughter at hip and artsy boutiques like Custom, a new shop at 415-A Haywood Road next to Harvest Records. customboutique.com, 257-4007.

There are few gifts as timeless and traditional as a Stuart Nye dogwood pin, and more recently its calla lily. Handwrought since 1933 here in Asheville using sterling silver and other metals, the pins can be matched with earrings, necklaces, slides, rings and bracelets, all made by hand using simple, homemade tools. Available at Guild Crafts, one of the shops of the Southern Highland Craft Guild, at 930 Tunnel Road. $41.50 for the dogwood pin, $59.50 for the lily. southernhighlandguild.org, 298-7903.

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Whether your mom lives nearby or is visiting for Mother’s Day, treat her to LaZoom Comedy Tour on the funky purple bus that cruises by landmarks throughout Asheville while offering non-stop entertainment on wheels. The 90-minute tours begin and end at the French Broad Co-op on Biltmore Avenue. $12-$22. lazoomtours.com, 225-6932.

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divorced families

Tips for successfully forming a stepfamily

By Trip Woodward WNC Parent columnist

I have to start by making a confession. I like the term “stepfamily” a lot more than “blended family.” The expression “blended family” sounds like something I would order at the drive-through at Coffee World. Odds are, if you get divorced and then get remarried, you are probably going to “blend” into a “stepfamily.” So, let’s talk about the good news and the good news. There are no more obstacles in becoming part of a stepfamily than there are in any other type of family (e.g., biological, foster or adoptive). The problems may vary, but education and attitude about what

to expect can make a big difference. Now, let’s wind back the clock a bit before talking about stepfamilies and look at post-divorce dating in general. If you have children, then you may want to consider some of the following tips: ◆ Date when you are free and clear of the legal divorce process. You don’t want to do anything that might complicate decisions regarding child custody (if that is an issue for you). ◆ You may want to try “dating light” and avoid introducing your children to someone you are not seriously considering for a long-term relationship. This doesn’t mean keeping dating secret, but your children are not entitled to know details of your personal life when it does not directly affect them. ◆ You have a right to move on with your life. This is a positive model for your children. Don’t make some vow to

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wait until they are out of the house, married, etc., before you can date. ◆ When you introduce your children to your new significant other, it should be as a “friend” and not as a potential replacement for their father/mother. This may be a repeated teaching point if your children have a negative reaction to the introduction process. ◆ Keep boundaries. Your children need you to be a parent, not a best friend. Give them age-appropriate interpretations of your new relational decisions, instead of explanations. Ready to form a stepfamily? Congratulations on this decision and belief that it can work, provided that you and your partner have come to terms with a few central ideas. First, the stepparent needs to have a realistic idea about what he or she is getting into. The stepchildren may not

“love” him or her, but they have to respect the stepparent. This means establishing a code of civil conduct that makes sense to the adults, such as basic manners and household rules. Some stepparents expect to replace and repair the relationship debris left by the prior spouse. Stepchildren may act like they want this to happen, but it is best to carefully control your expectations and to shoot for a lasting relationship. If a child “loves you,” consider it gravy, but not an entitlement. Second, the adults need to work to support each other with an understanding of co-parenting. Children of divorce sometimes acquire a taste for the intimacy they get with their single parent. Dealing with a new adult who has authority can pose a difficult but necessary adjustment. It is important that this take place in an intentional way. As for the children, they need to be reassured that the stepparent is not “replacing” the biological parent. Permission should be given to feel whatever they may feel about the new arrangement, but that the same rules apply about con-

ON PARENTING HOLIDAYS Stepparents may feel slighted on Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, depending on custody terms. I could try to comfort you by telling you that the latter holidays are historically recent (started in the 1910s) and have no seasonal relevance, but I know that many Americans have bought into the idea with a sentimental relevance. The biological parents need to have agreements about the “parenting holidays” that are comfortable to both. Ideally, there should be an understanding that no one is being replaced, but that this is a special time for celebrating the special role of parenting. This might look like having a separate day to acknowledge either parents or special times within the same day. Stepparents will need to embrace the idea that “fair” does not mean “equal” when it comes to time or effort shown by the stepchild. structive expression concerning those feelings. Hopefully biological parents can reinforce the idea that children can like/ love any of their “parents” without being disloyal to either biological parent. Now, for some potential rough spots. A stepparent only has parental rights as defined by the court. So this means that your say in legal or school matters regarding your stepchildren may not have any authority apart from strong consideration by the relevant authorities. It also means that depending on the custody arrangement, you may feel like

you are playing second fiddle when it comes to holidays, especially parenting events like Father’s and Mother’s Day. Ultimately, the stepparent needs to understand that his or her role is never minimized in the life of a stepchild, but may not be acknowledged publicly as would be ideal. While it does not reap the rewards one would hope for, the loving thing to do is always the loving thing to do. Woodard is a licensed family and marriage therapist and clinical member of the N.C. Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. Reach him at 606-8607.

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kids’ voices

Honoring my mom

As Mother’s Day approaches, we wondered what kids would do for their moms or buy them as gifts if money were no object. Here’s what students in Peggy McCarter’s sixth- to eighth-grade class at Mountain Community School, Hendersonville’s public charter school, told staff writer Barbara Blake. “I would give my mother dearest the moon and the stars that glow and sparkle in the dark night. I would give her the stars because they shine as Tessa Greedy brightly as she does. I would give her the moon because its knowledgeable glow reflects my mother’s wise and positive outlook on life. If money was no object, I would give my mother dearest the night sky itself.” Tessa Greedy, eighth grade “I would start off making her a great breakfast — bacon, eggs, toast and coffee. I would let her sleep in to whatever time she wants to. When she Grayson Hall does wake up I would treat her like a queen and tend to her every need. I would make her the greatest dinner — whatever she wants. Steak, chicken, seafood — I would cook it just like she wanted it. I would end the day by making her a gift from my heart.” Grayson Hall, seventh grade

“My mother grew up being an Army kid. She met many girls and made some very close, best friends. Some that she remembers the most are Dorothy and Darla Clark. If I could give anything to my mom I would Madeleine Hatch give her back these two friends whom she cannot find. This would mean everything to her because she thinks of them all the time. She remembers all the things they did together and all the adventures they shared. I have a best friend and my mom has one, too. But I wish she could see what her childhood friends have become.” Madeleine Hatch, sixth grade “I can’t imagine life without my mother. My mom is the most selfless person I have ever met; she always puts people’s interests before hers. If money was no object for Mother’s Day, I would give her a big hug and look her in the eyes Amelia Ward and tell her how much I love her, respect her and appreciate her. I’d tell her that she is the best mom in the whole world.” Amelia Ward, seventh grade

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“Our mothers work very hard, and we really don’t appreciate all the work they do for us. That is why I would send my mother on a vacation to Fiji, because she has always wanted to go there and Morgan Suttles deserves a nice trip where she could get away from everyone and everything.” Morgan Suttles, eighth grade “I will make her favorite breakfast of all time, biscuits and gravy, and I will let her eat in bed, and she will be able to sleep as late as she wants to. I am also going to paint a picture frame for my mother. It will say Dakota Tittle #1 Mom and it will have a picture of me and my three siblings in it. My mother does laundry for my whole family of six, and this Mother’s Day I am going to do the laundry for her so she can relax. My siblings can get aggravating, and we get in arguments on a daily basis. If one of them starts aggravating me, I will just ignore them. I will not tell on them, and I won’t get in a fight with them.” Dakota Tittle, sixth grade

“I would start by waking up at 5:30 a.m., and I would sneak into my mom’s room and turn her alarm off so that she wouldn’t wake up while I made her breakfast. When she got up I would run and give her a hug, then tell her I love her a whole lot, then lead her to Kristian Gaylord the breakfast. After breakfast I’d follow her out to the garden and let her know that I wanted to garden with her today. I’d make lunch while she sat with me in the kitchen, then work with her in the garden until it started to get dark, then I’d go inside and make dinner for my mom. There are no words or actions to describe how much I love my mom, but by the end of the day I’d make sure she had at least an idea of just how much I love and honor her.” Kristian Gaylord, sixth grade

“The thing I would give my mom is love. She helps me during the tough times, she cooks my dinner and lunch, and I would do the same for her. Emily Staton On Mother’s Day, the one thing she will love is me giving love back to her. I would give myself, and that is the best gift a mother could have.” Emily Staton, sixth grade

“I love my mother so much, without her everything would fall apart. This Mother’s Day I want to do something special for Whitney Page her. Since money is no object I would like her to have a day off of work. I would cook, clean and do the laundry the best I could so she could just relax. But most important, I’d be there with her.” Whitney Page, sixth grade

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LIGHT UP

THE NIGHT Gannett News Service

Kids can make their own night lights with the Sparking Night Light Kit, $9.95 from Creativity for Kids.

A sock monkey night light costs $19 at amazon.com.

This collection of clever, pretty and amusing nightlights will make sure that you don’t go bump in the night.

The Chinese takeout box-shaped lamp that acts as a night light is available for $18.52 at http:// ivgstores.com.

Mobi’s Tykelight Jr. night light can be carried to illuminate the way. It costs $14.99 and is available online only at walgreens.com. The Twilight Turtle night light turns your room into a starlit sky. It costs $34 at http:// cloudb.stores. yahoo.net.

GNS PHOTOS

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home-school happenings

Get organized with school, life

By Nicole McKeon WNC Parent columnist

If you really want to talk to me, don’t call me on my cell phone. Seriously. I never remember to charge it. Most of the time I leave it at home. I was thinking about this the other day, driving in the car wondering where my cell phone was. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d seen it. And I had an epiphany: I am a closet disorganized person. Of course, my husband will probably laugh until he makes himself sick when he reads this, because he is well aware of my little procrastination problem. He has been living with my “dropsy,” as

he calls my seeming inability to pick things up after I take them off, or put them down, for 18 years. He would probably find it surprising that a lot of my home-schooling friends don’t know how organizationally challenged I really am. Because, when it comes to organizing events, articles, co-ops, outings, I am the woman for the job. I will get it done, and get it done in a big way! These are all things I love to do. I am motivated. Ask me to keep the house organized for more than three days in a row…. Not so much. So, I could feel the hives starting when I began reading a book about home-schooling your teenager. It was talking about goals, and long term plans, and transcripts…ugh. Sure, I have a lot of goals for both of my children. Have I actually written them down? Not so much. Do I have a plan for the

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next four years? Yikes. I barely have a plan for next week. Yes, I sit down during the summer and loosely plan out our year. I follow the scope and sequence for the year my children are in, and know where we succeed and where we sometimes fall short of the mark. But my organizational disability has certainly led me to not have a macro version of our homeschooling life. I am pretty sure I am not alone. I’d better not be…my poor kids. I am resolving to do better. I am pretty sure that I can get really motivated about helping my children to create a most excellent future. And, I know I can’t do that only a day at a time. I need to look at the big picture. I am definitely going to need my husband’s help on this one. He is so much better at seeing the big picture, and

HOME-SCHOOL EVENTS ◆ May 7: Considering Home-schooling Workshop: Biltmore Baptist Church Home School Ministry offers workshop, 7-9 p.m. in Terrace Hall. Learn the benefits, the difficulties, what to expect, how to avoid common mistakes, and the keys to getting started in home-schooling. Child care is available (register by May 3). Contact Ronda Marshall at homeschool@biltmorebaptist.org for more information. ◆ May 11, Asheville Art Museum: Program for students in first to fifth grades, 11:30

putting it into realistic focus. And, I now realize, thanks to my macro-minded husband, that organization, whether at home, at school, at work, or even in your barn, is an absolutely necessary skill to teach my children. If I can’t keep my bedroom organized, how can I expect my daughter to keep hers organized? Maybe my co-op classes are all well planned and orga-

a.m.-1 p.m. $4. To register, call 253-3227, ext. 121 or 122, or e-mail eshope@ashevilleart.org. Visit ashevilleart.org. ◆ May 12, The Health Adventure: For ages 5-10, topic is robots. 1:30-2:30 p.m. $7 per child, $5.50 for members. Call 254-6373, ext. 316. Visit thehealthadventure.org. ◆ May 20, Colburn Earth Science Museum: For first- to third-graders. 10 a.m.-noon at quarry. $5 for members, $6 for nonmembers. Visit colburnmuseum.org or call 2547162.

nized, but if the morning of co-op I am running around the house like a chicken with my head cut off because I can’t find my keys … Well, I guess you can see where I am going with this. This is for all you closet disorganized home-schooling moms. You know who you are. You can’t invite someone over for a play date unless you have a threeday window of cleaning time. Your

home-schooling supplies are scattered from the bedroom to the bathroom to the kitchen. You can’t find your cell phone and even if you could, it wouldn’t be charged. Yeah, you. Let’s resolve together. Spring is a time for new beginnings. I am getting out the garbage bags. I am making trips to Goodwill and ABCCM. I am not going to leave a room without picking up everything I brought in. I am going to put my keys in the same place so I can find them. And, I am going to charge my cell phone, every night. And I am sitting down with my husband and planning the next several years. We are going to work together to create a serious plan for the future of our home school. And then I am going to put it somewhere I can always find it. You should, too. I shouldn’t have to suffer alone. Nicole McKeon is a home-schooling mom in Asheville. Contact her at nmckeon@msn.com.

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The girl behind Early Girl By Barbara Blake ◆ WNC Parent writer Julie Stehling owns Early Girl Eatery on Wall Street with her husband, John. They have two sons, Hank, 5, and Milo, 3. Stehling, 39, is originally from Detroit and has a bachelor’s degree in education from Indiana University. Q. What’s a typical day in your life? A. Typically I wake up early, around

5:30 a.m., because I never know when the boys will get up. I make lunches, feed the dogs, wake the boys up at 6:30, make breakfast, walk Hank to the bus stop, take Milo to school and get to work by 8:30. I’m done at work between 4 and 5, except Thursday nights I work from 3 to at least midnight. After any homework and reading, we put the boys to bed by 8-ish. Of course all days are peppered with laundry, dishes and sweeping. Q. Do the kids spend time with you at the restaurant? What’s that like? A. Hank and Milo no longer come to work like they used to. Hank worked strapped to me hosting, rolling silverware, bussing and serving until he was 18 months old. He actually took his first step in the Early Girl dining room. The

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Julie Stehling balances family life and a successful restaurant day he took a home fry off of a guest’s plate was the last day he worked with me. Milo only lasted six months. He sat with me while I did paperwork, but soon the sight of the office door sent him into hysterics. These days the boys are pretty unimpressed with the restaurant. We have to bait them with bacon to get them to walk in the door. Q. What are some of the challenges and rewards of being restaurant owners and parents at the same time? A. Without John’s parents, Bob and Shirley, we could never run the restaurant the way we do or parent as well as we want to. Ours is definitely a family business. Bob and Shirley bake desserts for the restaurant and care for the children every week. Weekends and holidays are when we are busiest, so we do not have a typical family schedule. Of course it means a lot to us to raise children who know the value of hard work, ambition and creativity. We do hope that one day these long hours will pay off in more time off. But we are grateful to be busy. Q. What do you do just for you? A. I read, work out at the YWCA and go to yoga whenever I can. Time to decompress is very important, and the whole family notices if I haven’t taken time out. John is great about rearranging his schedule so I can take time. Q. How do you and John share parenting/household/work duties? A. We usually share parenting about 50/50. When he works I have Hank and Milo, and vice versa. The house is kind of the last priority. I end up doing a lot of the daily grind of chores, but John handles anything mechanical and major. At work he runs the kitchen and I do the books and co-manage the front-of-house. Of course we make many decisions together, but we each have our own areas of expertise. Q. What’s your favorite food outside the restaurant? Any guilty pleasures? A. I love Indian food, and my guilty pleasure is definitely potato chips, Dori-

PHOTO BY JOHN COUTLAKIS

Early Girl Eatery owners John and Julie Stehling and their sons Milo, 3, left, and Hank, 5. tos or Tom’s BBQ … not pretty, I know. Q. Do you like to cook at home? Do you cook differently than you do at the restaurant? A. I’m all about cooking breakfast and lunch at home, but often get really tired by dinnertime. When I’m motivated, we keep it simple and fresh. We do cook in the same style as at the restaurant, just sometimes veering toward more ethnic recipes, not always Southern food. Q. What’s an ideal day off for you? A. Time outside with my family, with no obligations or plans. Exotic locales don’t hurt. Q. What do you admire most about your children? A. I admire Hank’s kindness and his sense of direction. For Milo I am in awe of his lack of fear; he is his father’s child that way. Q. Any tips for other busy moms who work outside the home to keep it all together and not lose your mind? A. I am very lucky at Early Girl to work with so many mothers. It is so easy

to judge yourself harshly when you don’t communicate with other parents. We all make similar mistakes. I try to remind myself when things are really crazy that this too will pass, and no phase lasts forever. Q. What do you love about living in Asheville? A. I love the community here. We are always gifted with so many hand-medowns for the boys and are able to do the same for others. I feel like so many folks have seen Hank and Milo grow up and have watched out for them. I love that we are surrounded by so many creative and active people. The mountains and the climate don’t hurt, either. Q. What do you see yourself doing in 10 years? A. I hope to be living abroad with all three of my boys, and Grandma and Pa, too, if they’ll come. Do you know of a parent who has found a balance between life and work or volunteer activities? Send suggestions for future profiles to Katie Wadington at kwadington@citizen-times.com.

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the artful parent

Let children explore through art By Jean Van’t Hul WNC Parent columnist It’s the process, not the product. This is a statement you’ve probably heard before in relation to children’s arts and crafts, right? Children learn by doing and exploring. The goal for a 3-year-old isn’t a beautiful piece of art (although the result may be) but rather an exploration of the materials. It’s about trying, learning and mastering different media and tools and techniques, and, of course, the child’s own body. How does crayon draw on smooth paper? Corrugated cardboard? What does paint look like when you mix red with green? You can encourage the process by allowing your child the freedom to explore with art materials without expecting a specific result. And, rather than saying, “that’s pretty” when talking about your child’s artwork, use words that describe, such as, “Wow, you’re making lots of dots! I see big dots and little dots.” Or, “What a lot of red you’ve used! I like the swirly designs you’ve made with it.” And, sometimes the best is simply, “Can you tell me about your painting?” For some great process-oriented arts and crafts ideas for children, look at MaryAnn F. Kohl’s books, such as “Scribble Art,” “First Art” and “Preschool Art.” Each is chock full of fun, process-oriented activities (many of which also produce great looking products!). Jean Van’t Hul blogs as The Artful Parent at www.artfulparent.typepad.com.

PHOTOS BY JEAN VAN’T HUL

Celebrate spring by making butterflies that teach children how watercolors don’t cover crayon.

Crayon resist butterflies

Craft beautiful butterflies with clothespins and crayon-resist watercolor paintings. Watercolor paper (or other heavy paper) White crayons or oil pastels Watercolor paint Glue Old-fashioned clothespins Pencil Fold your watercolor paper in half. Hold a clothespin next to the fold and mark the top and bottom of the clothespin slit with a pencil. Draw your butterfly wing, using the marks you just made as the body. Cut along the pencil line, then open up the paper to see the matching butterfly wings.

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Use a white crayon to draw designs (or scribble) on both sides of your butterfly wings. Press hard. Younger children may prefer to use a yellow or other light-colored crayon that they can see. Paint over the butterfly wings with watercolor paints, exposing the white crayon designs. Let dry. Press flat if necessary. Slide wings into the clothespin body and glue to attach (note: popsicle sticks work as well, if you don’t have any clothespins). Let dry. If desired, tie string to butterflies and hang together as a mobile.

Even the smallest artists can make a beautiful cookie.

Let kids explore how colors blend or coordinate on a cookie canvas.

Painted cookies

Use your cookie as canvas to create a beautiful and edible masterpiece.

Sugar cookies (use your favorite recipe) 3 cups powdered sugar Warm water Food coloring Q-tips Bake sugar cookies. Prepare glaze by adding enough warm water (1 teaspoon at a time) to 3 cups powdered sugar to make a thick, spreadable glaze. Spread glaze on cookies. Let dry several hours or overnight to harden. Put food coloring in small bowls and dilute with a little water. Use Q-tips or small paintbrushes to paint the glazed cookies with food coloring. Take a photo of your masterpiece before you eat it!

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W N C PA R E N T | M AY 2 010

School lunches still lacking, poll finds USA TODAY

Efforts to improve school lunches have begun across the country, but many people say the food still doesn’t make the grade, a new poll says. More than half of Americans (55 percent) say the nutritional quality of the food served at their local schools is “only fair” or “poor.” About 63 percent of parents with school-age children feel that way. “People do want kids to have healthier foods at lunch, but knowing it and doing something about it are two different things,” says Gail Christopher, vice president of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, which backed the poll of 801 adults. “It’s a lot of work to shift cultures, practices and procurement systems.”

The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.5 percent. The findings, which were presented in late April at the foundation’s Food and Community Conference in Chandler, Ariz.: ◆ Most people believe fresh fruits and vegetables and a salad bar or premade salads should be offered every day in school cafeterias. ◆ Most don’t think cafeterias should be serving soda but should offer skim milk. ◆ About half say pizza should be served no more than once a week. The same is true for chicken nuggets and hamburgers. ◆ Most believe 60 minutes of physical activity a day for kids should be a priority for schools.

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W N C PA R E N T | M AY 2 010

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growing together

I’ve become an everyday treehugger

By Chris Worthy WNC Parent columnist I am now in the mainstream. Don’t believe me? Well, it’s cool to recycle, shop in thrift stores, carry a snazzy refillable water bottle and drive a hybrid. OK, so I still don’t have a hybrid, but I do have hybrid envy and that should count for something. I have read that most people can change a habit in a matter of weeks, but it’s much easier to build a mindset from the beginning than to reshape it in adulthood. When I was a kid we threw away our aluminum cans. What

else was there to do with them? I think my husband used his for BB gun targets, but the options for reuse were limited nonetheless. We didn’t know any better then, but that’s no excuse for refusing to adapt — or for not providing an example for our children. We’ve come pretty far in our household, but there is still much to do. I would like to say I think about every purchase in advance, looking for the least processed, minimally packaged items I

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can find. Truthfully, sometimes I just don’t think about it until I get home and wonder how the highly sugared cereal packed in a bag within a box ended up in my cart. Actually, I know how it ended up there, but I am not going to name names. They live in my house. You figure it out. And I often struggle with determining the best choice. It seems to depend on who you ask. Do I buy the Florida orange juice in the nonrecyclable container or the imported juice in the easy-torecycle bottle? The right answer is probably to squeeze fresh oranges but I am afraid I would just pour my kids a glass of water for

breakfast. (FYI, I opt for Florida.) When I tell my kids to grab a cloth napkin or a reusable container instead of the disposable equivalent, they oblige. But their obedience comes after reaching their arms out to form a big circle. (They’re hugging trees. Get it?) However, my smart aleck kids do care and they are forming lifelong habits. And I give them gas money (because I don’t have a hybrid), so they still have to listen to me. I want my grandbabies to have trees to climb and parks in which to play — not in the near future, of course, but one day. Maybe by then I can fly them around Buck Rogers style with my energy efficient jet pack. I won’t even need a hybrid. Chris Worthy is an attorney who took down her shingle to be a stayat-home mom. Reach her at chris@worthyplace.com.

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Violet Buxman, 4 months, of Asheville, holds a big carrot that overwintered her family garden. She is the daughter of Ryan and Carey Buxman.

Isaiah Siegman, then 11 months, of Asheville. Submitted by Nancy Sokolove.

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We welcome photos of your children. Send high-resolution images, along with names, ages and hometowns of everyone pictured. Include your name, address and phone number. Send to Katie Wadington by e-mail at kwadington@citizen-times.com or to WNC Parent Photos, P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802.

Abby Stimpson, 9 months, of Balsam, is ready for Easter. Submitted by mom Racheal Stimpson.

Jenna Gibson, of Clemmons, finds has something to smile about. She was 12 weeks old when the photo was taken. Submitted by her grandmother Pam Queen, of Nebo. Joshua Mott Holcomb and Avarie Presley play together. Submitted by moms Lacey Holcomb and Sarah Presley. William VanCamp, then 7 months, enjoys a fall day. Submitted by mom Amy VanCamp, of Asheville.

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librarian’s pick

Book with 3,856 story possibilities Jennifer Prince Buncombe County Public Libraries When, in a foreword of a book, the author describes having to use a “Vopt heuristic algorithm” and an “SGI machine” to bring his book — a book for young people at that! — to fruition, that book warrants special recognition. So it is with Jason Shiga and his new book, “Meanwhile.” At its most basic level, “Meanwhile” is a reader-picks-the-path graphic novel. Really though, it is so much more. “Meanwhile” is an interactive reading experience engineered with uncommon skill. “Pick any path,” the author declares. There are “3,856 story possibilities.” If that is an exaggeration, it is not much of one. In this 36-page book, each page is full of picture panels. Each panel is linked to other panels by decision lines. Some lines spill over to other pages, the appropriate page being designated with a colored tab. Some lines refer the reader

area story times Buncombe County Public Libraries

Visit buncombecounty.org/governing/depts/Library/ May 18: Bilingual Story Time. Weaverville Library hosts its monthly story time with stories, rhymes and songs in both English and Spanish at 6:30 p.m. The library is at 41 N. Main St. Call 250-6482. Mother Goose Time (ages 4-18 months) 11 a.m. Mondays: West Asheville 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays: Fairview 11 a.m. Wednesdays: Swannanoa, Weaverville 11 a.m. Thursdays: Oakley 11:30 a.m. Thursdays: Enka-Candler Toddler Time (ages 18-36 months) 10 a.m. Wednesdays: North Asheville 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Fairview, Skyland/South Buncombe 11 a.m. Wednesdays: West Asheville 10 a.m. Thursdays: Swannanoa 10:30 a.m. Thursdays: Black Mountain, Enka-Candler 11 a.m. Thursdays: Weaverville (first Thursday only) Story time (ages 3-5) 11:15 a.m. Tuesdays: Weaverville 10 a.m. Wednesdays: Oakley 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Black Mountain, Enka-

to earlier pages. It is a complex system, but with a little concentration and persistence, one well worth the effort of pursuing. The book begins on an ordinary note. A boy goes into an ice cream shop. He orders. But, vanilla or chocolate? The reader decides. If vanilla, the reader follows the vanilla line to the designated panel. If chocolate, the reader follows the chocolate line. With each decision, a bit more of the story is revealed. With each revelation, another choice must be made. Should the boy go into the warehouse where the inventor is? If so, should the boy tinker with any of the inventions? If so, which one? What about the medicine cabinet? Readers’ decisions lead the boy to doom or happiness, in this life or a parallel one. The boy might meet a younger version of himself along the way, or he might meet a squid, or maybe both.

Along the way, the boy might discover the need for a secret code. The reader can direct the boy to it. Or not. Not only is the book dazzling storytelling, there is some interesting science mixed in as well. Mini-lessons on entropy, mathematical certainties, and parallel universes all figure in. In the context of the book, these things make sense, too. Shiga’s illustrations are not only eye-catching, but methodical. Shiga limits the use of color and excessive detail in order to make the lines easier to follow. Lines are drawn precisely and color coded, limiting the chances of getting lost. The pages of “Meanwhile” are made of heavy, glossy paper, so it should hold up to much flipping back and forth of pages. “Meanwhile” is one-of-a-kind. Really. This book is available in Buncombe County Public Libraries. Visit buncombecounty.org for more information.

Candler, Leicester 11 a.m. Wednesdays: East Asheville, North Asheville 10:30 a.m. Thursdays: Fairview, Skyland/South Buncombe 11 a.m. Thursdays: Swannanoa, West Asheville 11 a.m. Saturdays: East Asheville School-age story time (ages 5-7) 3:15 p.m. Thursdays: North Asheville Family story time 11:15 a.m. Tuesdays: Weaverville Storyline Call 251-5437 for a story anytime.

Mondays with Ms. Lisa (grades K-5) 3:30 p.m. Mondays (during school year): Canton

Haywood County Public Library

Visit haywoodlibrary.org. Baby Rhyme Time (birth-24 months) 11 a.m. Mondays: Waynesville. Movers and Shakers (ages 2-3) 11 a.m. Thursdays: Waynesville Family story time (all ages) 11 a.m. Tuesdays: Fines Creek 11:15 a.m. Tuesdays: Canton 11 a.m. Wenesdays: Waynesville Ready 4 Learning (ages 4-5) 1:30 p.m. Wednesdays: Waynesville

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Henderson County Public Library Visit henderson.lib.nc.us. No story time in May.

Barnes & Noble

Asheville Mall, 3 S. Tunnel Road, 296-7335 11 a.m. Mondays (toddlers) and 2 p.m. Saturdays (young readers). Biltmore Park, 33 Town Square Blvd., 687-0681. 11 a.m. Wednesdays (toddlers) and 2 p.m. Sundays.

Blue Ridge Osondu Books

152 S. Main St., Waynesville, 456-6000, brbooks-news.com Book Babies, 10 a.m. Tuesdays

Spellbound Children’s Bookshop

19 Wall St., Asheville, 232-2228, spellboundchildrensbookshop.com Story time Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. (ages 3-5) and 3:30 p.m. (ages 5-7). Free.

Snacking grows, but the choices aren’t ideal By Nanci Hellmich USA TODAY Children today snack an average of three times a day, and they are mostly consuming sugary beverages, cookies, cake, candy, salty snacks and other highcalorie junk food, a new study shows. In fact, children are now consuming 168 more calories from snacks daily than kids did in 1977. The findings confirm previous studies that indicate snacking may have run amok in the USA, and it may be contributing to the rising rates of childhood obesity. “Today we think we need to be eating all the time, so we have snack foods available for our kids constantly,” said Barry Popkin, a UNC nutrition professor. “Kids are not only snacking too often, but essentially the foods they are consuming represent almost completely unhealthy foods.” Popkin and colleagues analyzed government data on the eating habits of more than 31,000 children ages 2-18 from 1977-2006. Their findings show that children are consuming: ◆ About 586 calories a day from snacks, compared with 418 calories from snacks in 1977. ◆ An average of 2,111 calories for the entire day, up from 2,000 in 1977. ◆ A smaller percentage of their snacks from milk and other dairy products than kids in 1977. Children today consume few whole fruits and vegetables as snacks, Popkin said. “They consume more french fries as snacks than healthy vegetables.” Harry Balzer, vice president of the NPD Group, which does research on snacking, has a slightly different take on today’s snacking habits. He said his data show that kids do eat a lot of high-calorie junk foods but over the last 10 years “parents have been doing better and are cutting back on some of the high-calorie foods they are giving their children, ages 6-12, and serving them more fruit.”

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kids and sports

Remember whose game it really is

Question: What parent in their right mind would let their kid play soccer in the snow and the rain? Answer: Scottish parents. Are these not the same men that wear kilts? “When it snows, all we do is clear the lines and then we are good to go.” David Robertson told me, and he should know. David played 15 years of professional soccer in Scotland. He played for the Aberdeen Glasgow Rangers and the Leeds United teams there. He also played on each level of the Scotland National Teams as he was growing up. Today he is the director of coaches for the Sereno Soccer Club in Arizona. Sereno has 54 teams; which means taking on the challenge of keeping 54 youth

coaches in line. Make that 53 coaches because David, or should I say “Coach Robertson,” coaches one team himself. And, by the way that team won the State Cup, and then went on to win the Region. This put them into the national tournament with the five other regional winners. They went all the way to the championship game before getting beat. I guess having the second best 15/under team isn’t too bad! “How did you do it”? I asked him. “I didn’t do it, the kids did it. And, we did it the U.K. way,” he told me. What is the U.K. way, you might be asking? I asked that same question to Robertson and the answer was clear. In Scotland, there is no confusion on whom the game is for. “Too many coaches here are interested in winning the state cup for them-

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By Tom Kuyper Gannett

selves,” Robertson told me. Robertson shared with me his concern that too many parents and coaches put too much pressure on their kids to do well. “I have seen it too many times; if a kid makes a mistake, he gets taken out of the game,” he said. I have to agree with him in that the pressure of performance takes the fun out of the game. It is refreshing to hear the emphasis of fun from a man who achieved such a high level of success in his sport. He went on to share with me that in Scotland, the kids do not have to pay to play. Yes that’s right, it’s free! I love it that the Scots don’t call it quits for the weather. Just clear the lines, and as long as you can see the goal through the snowflakes; let’s play ball! E-mail Tom Kuyper at tomkuyper@kidsandsports.com.

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W N C PA R E N T | M AY 2 010

AN APPETITE FOR

SHRIMP Gannett News Service

As Pvt. Benjamin Buford “Bubba” Blue so memorably says about cooking shrimp in the movie “Forrest Gump”: “You can barbecue it, boil it, broil it, bake it, saute it. There’s shrimp-kabobs, shrimp Creole, shrimp gumbo. Pan-fried, deep-fried, stir-fried.” Grilled shrimp? Baconwrapped shrimp? Shrimp gumbo? Yup. Shrimp ranks as the No. 1 seafood choice of Americans, who gobble up 4.2 pounds per

person a year. Domestic shrimp account for only about 12 percent of the market, according to the National Marine Fisheries Service. Imports such as farm-raised tiger shrimp come from countries such as Vietnam, India, China and Brazil. The size of shrimp you buy depends on what you plan to do with it. Medium or large are fine for a shrimp boil, saute or stir-fry; pricier jumbos are best for grilling because they won’t cook as quickly as, well, shrimpier shrimp.

Shrimp and blue crab pizza 1/2 pound medium Florida shrimp, peeled and cooked 1 12-inch pizza crust 1/2 cup prepared pesto sauce 1 cup crabmeat 1 1/2 cups shredded part skim mozzarella cheese 2 tablespoons olive oil Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut shrimp into bite-size pieces; set aside. Place flatbread on sheet pan and spread pesto sauce over each flatbread leaving one-half inch crust at edges. Top evenly with shrimp and crab pieces; add a thin layer of mozzarella. Drizzle olive oil over all then sprinkle with paprika. Bake for 25 minutes mid-oven until cheese is melted and bubbling. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Slide pizzas onto a cutting board; slice and serve. Makes 4 servings.

Source: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Spiced shrimp with mango curry cream

1 1/2 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 tablespoon butter 1/2 teaspoon lime juice 2 teaspoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon pepper sauce In a bowl, combine shrimp, coriander and allspice. Set aside. Heat butter in a skillet over medium high heat and cook shrimp 3 to 4 minutes on both sides until opaque in the center. Add lime juice, sugar and pepper sauce to pan; stir until sugar is dissolved. Serve with mango curry cream. For the sauce: 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste 1 14-ounce can coconut milk 1/2 cup mango chutney 1 fresh mango, diced 1/4 cup heavy cream 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely diced Heat the oil over medium heat in saucepan. Whisk in the curry paste and cook for 1 minute. Add coconut milk, chutney and fresh mango. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and slowly stir in heavy cream. Simmer to reduce sauce by half. Puree sauce in blender until smooth. Keep sauce warm and add cilantro just before serving. Source: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

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Dessert breads take the

Gannett News Service

cake

James Beard called bread “the most fundamentally satisfying of all foods; and good bread with fresh butter, the greatest of feasts.” Who knows what the late father of American-style gourmet would say about breads that look like traditional loaves but taste more like dessert? Chances are, he’d recommend these subtle but decadent breads for breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert. “They appeal to the bread lover who also happens to have a sweet tooth,” says Jeff Yankellow, top baker at Simply Bread, a Phoenix-based bakery. Yankellow led the 2005 U.S. team to the gold trophy in the Coupe du Monde de la Boulangerie (World Cup of Baking) in Paris. Hybrid loaves fall smack dab between two categories: bread and dessert. They’re not a bread to slice and slap over pastrami for a sandwich. But because they are baked with yeast and look like a dinner loaf, they’re hard to classify as a dessert. They also are deceptively versatile. Dip in an egg batter and serve as French toast for breakfast or pair with soft cheeses for sandwiches. To bring out the gooeyness of the chocolate, Yankellow fills slices of a chocolate baguette with Brie and a dollop of strawberry preserves before sauteing in olive oil. Make an easy parfait by dipping the breads in a favorite liquor and layering with whipped cream and fresh berries in a champagne flute. Or just slice and serve with creamy butter. Dessert breads are best the day they are baked but remain fresh up to three days when wrapped in plastic and stored in a cool, dark spot. If freezing, doublewrap, first in plastic wrap, then in a freezer bag.

Chocolate bread 1 1/2 cups warm water, divided (or, if not using espresso powder, 1/2 cup warm water and 1 cup warm coffee) 2/3 cup plus 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, divided 2 teaspoons dry yeast 4 1/2 cups bread flour 2/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar 2/3 cup cocoa powder, sifted 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder, optional (see above) 2 teaspoons salt 1 large egg, at room temperature 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened 8 ounces good-quality dark chocolate, chopped into one-half-inch chunks For egg glaze: 1 large egg 1 teaspoon water In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of the warm water with 1 teaspoon of the sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and set the mixture aside for 10 minutes, until foamy. If the mixture doesn’t foam, the yeast may be inactive; try again with fresh yeast. In the bowl of a heavy-duty electric mixer, place the flour, remaining 2/3 cup of granulated sugar, light brown sugar, cocoa, espresso powder (if using) and salt. Using the paddle attachment, mix at low speed for 1 minute, until combined. If mixing by hand,

use a whisk and combine thoroughly. Add the remaining 1 cup of warm water (or the 1/2 cup of warm water and 1 cup of warm coffee if not using espresso powder) and the egg to the yeast mixture. Add this to the flour mixture while continuing to mix at low speed. Increase the speed to medium and continue to beat the mixture for 2 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. At low speed, beat in the softened butter 1 tablespoon at a time, until it is incorporated into the dough. Remove the paddle attachment and replace it with the dough hook. Knead the dough at low speed for 2 minutes. Increase the speed to medium and knead for 2 minutes longer. (You also can knead the dough by hand. Just make sure the butter is well-softened.) Add the chocolate chunks and knead just until incorporated. Transfer the dough to a buttered bowl (the dough will be quite moist). Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a damp tea towel and allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for 2 hours (or until almost doubled in bulk). After the dough has risen, punch it down and cover again with plastic wrap. Place in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or

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up to 2 days. Butter two 8 1/2-inch-by-4 1/2-inch-by-2 1/2-inch loaf pans. On a lightly floured work surface, divide the chocolate dough in half. Divide each dough half into 6 equal pieces so that you have 12 pieces in all. With lightly floured hands, shape each piece into a smooth ball. Place 6 balls (2-inch-by-2inch-by-2-inch, at a diagonal) in each pan, pressing them lightly together if necessary. Cover the pans with a tea towel and allow the dough to rise at room temperature for 1 hour. Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 400 degrees. For the egg glaze, whisk together the egg and water in a small bowl until blended. Using a pastry brush, brush the egg glaze over the tops of the loaves. Bake the loaves for 10 minutes. Lower the oven temperature to 375 degrees and bake the bread for an additional 30 minutes. Cool the bread in the pans, set on a wire rack, for 15 minutes. Unmold the bread and cool the loaves on the rack completely. Makes 2 loaves. Source: National Public Radio.

Cherry pine nut bread

2 1/2 cups dried tart cherries 3 cups bread flour 3 tablespoons instant yeast or rapidrise yeast 3/4 cup milk 2 whole eggs plus 2 egg yolks 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 6 tablespoons butter 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted 1 tablespoon lemon zest 1 tablespoon orange zest Cover cherries with cool water and drain. Set aside. Place flour in the bowl of an electric mixer with a dough hook attachment. Stir in the yeast. Add milk, eggs, yolks, sugar, salt, oil and butter. Mix on low speed for 3 minutes. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl and mix 1 additional minute in slow. Turn the mixer on medium high and mix for 8 to 10 minutes. The dough is finished mixing when it starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl and starts to form a ball around the dough hook. Turn the mixer off and cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let the dough rest 15 minutes. Add the cherries, pine nuts, and lemon and orange zest to the bowl and mix for 2 minutes on slow. Turn the dough onto a floured work surface and gently fold any loose cherries into it. Form the dough into a ball and cover with plastic wrap. Let rest for 15 minutes. Grease two 5-inch by 9-inch by 2 3/4-inch loaf pans. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and form into tight balls. Place four balls into each pan from end to end. Cover the pans with a moist towel and let the dough rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours. The dough will double in volume and rise about 1 inch above the edge of the pans. Heat oven to 335 degrees. Bake dough for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Take the bread out of the pans. Place on a cooling rack until completely cool. Makes 2 loaves. Source: Jeff Yankellow of Simply Bread, Phoenix.

Chocolate brie panini 12 slices chocolate bread 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil 12 ounces Brie cheese, thinly sliced 6 teaspoons strawberry preserves Preheat panini grill or saute pan. Brush both sides of bread with oil. Grill slices in small batches until they begin to turn golden, 1 to 2

minutes for each side. Remove from grill or pan, and place 2 ounces of cheese and 1 teaspoon of strawberries between 2 slices of bread, repeating for 5 more sandwiches. Return sandwiches to grill or pan and cook 2 more minutes. Serve immediately. Makes 6 panini. Source: Jeff Yankellow of Simply Bread, Phoenix.

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kitchen kids

Sliders make for small

meal fun What does it take to be a Kitchen Kid? The recipe is quite simple. Start with safety first. Then, add an interest in learning. Sprinkle a few simple kitchen skills. And finally, mix in great-tasting ingredients.

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Cheesy sliders

1 pound lean ground beef 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1 1/2 cups (4 ounces) fresh mushrooms, sliced 1/2 cup pizza sauce 24 slices turkey pepperoni 2 cups (8 ounces) mozzarella cheese, coarsely grated 2 tablespoons black olives, sliced 12 mini burger buns Preheat oven to 375째F. Spread and press ground beef firmly into 13x9x2-inch pan, covering bottom in a thin

layer. Sprinkle beef with Italian seasoning and top with mushrooms. Bake for 10 minutes. Carefully remove pan from oven and dab meat top with paper towels to absorb any grease. Spoon and spread pizza sauce over and cover with pepperoni, then mozzarella and sprinkle with olives. Return to oven and bake 5 minutes more, until cheese is melted. Meanwhile, split buns in half horizontally. When pizza patty is done, cut into 12 portions. Place one portion on each bun bottom and replace top. Serve immediately. Makes 12. Source: Wisconsin Cheese

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video games

Zhu Zhu Pets zoom onto DS By Jinny Gudmundsen Gannett One of the hottest toys during the last holiday season was Zhu Zhu Pets, little battery-powered hamsters that chirp and race around bumping into things. Now these bundles of energy are powering their way onto the Nintendo DS in a game that combines nurturing of virtual pets with fast-paced racing through maze-like structures. “Zhu Zhu Pets” is a kind of “Nintendogs” meets “Super Monkey Ball” experience where kids take care of up to nine hamsters while also entertaining them in mazes. The nurturing aspect of the game is quite simple. You tap on a hamster to pick it up, and then you move it to the food bowl, the water bowl, a bed, a toilet or the exercise area. You can also make the hamster roll over to be petted by

dragging a heart over to it or feed it a carrot treat. The little hamsters let you know their needs by floating little icons above their heads. These cute little animals are also adventuresome. By dragging a hamster to the Adventure entrance, you can allow it to explore a fun area of more than 30 mazes set in six themed worlds. But there are things in these mazes beyond your control, including speed ramps (which send a hamster careening), slide chutes (which make a hamster zoom through), jumping ramps (which send your hamster flying over the maze), tunnel holes (which transport the hamster from one point in the maze to another) and bumpers (think pinball games). These mazes are strewn with coins, carrots and stars, which your hamster collects by running over them. The more you collect within a maze, the higher

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Score: 3 stars (out of 4) Rating: E for Everyone Best for: Ages 5-11 From Activision, activision.com, $29.99, Nintendo DS

your trophy rating at the end of the maze. Each maze has a goal and an ending flag. “Zhu Zhu Pets” does a nice job of extending the play patterns of this popular toy. In real life, kids enjoy putting their Zhu Zhu Pets inside mazes to watch them bump their way through. In this video game, the complex mazes offer exciting visuals around every corner. As the mazes get bigger, kids will need to use logic and memory skills to figure out how to get where they need to go. Contact Jinny Gudmundsen at gnstech@gannett.com.

recall roundup The following recalls have been issued recently by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. For details, visit cpsc.gov.

1/2 inches by 7 inches. They were sold at gift and specialty stores nationwide from January 2009-March 2010 for about $8 and $20 for the set. Contact Gund for a free replacement product. Call 800-4363726 or visit gund.com.

Gund baby books

Graco Harmony high chairs

Gund Baby Paperboard Books have been recalled because the foam used to fill the book binding can detach, posing a choking/aspiration hazard to infants and young children. This recall involves three miniature children’s paperboard books with plastic handles designed as baby rattles. They include “Animals” (item number 059174), “Numbers” (item number 059175) and “Colors” (item number 059176). The books were also sold as a three-book set (item number 059173). The name “Gund” and the item number are located on the back of the books. The books measure 4

Graco Children’s Products Inc. is recalling about 1.2 million Graco Harmony high chairs. Screws holding the front legs of the chair can fall out and plastic brackets on the rear can crack, posing fall hazards. Call 877-842-3206, or visit gracobaby.com.

Hooded jackets Mecca children’s hooded jackets with drawstrings have been recalled by 5 Star Apparel LLC because the jackets have drawstrings through the hood that can pose a strangulation hazard to young children. . “Mecca” is printed on the inside or outside back of jackets. They were sold at Burlington Coat Factory, Marshalls and other retail stores nationwide from April 2008-December 2009 for between $40-$100.

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calendar of events

Things to do May 4

Mother’s Day crafts Hands On! A Child’s Gallery offers kids a chance to make a card for mom. Free with admission. At 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Call 697-8333 or visit handsonwnc.org. Skyland Library Knitters Group for all skill levels meets 6-8 p.m. at South Buncombe/Skyland Library, 260 Overlook Road. Call 250-6488. “Red Pyramid” release party Spellbound Children’s Bookshop celebrates the first book in Rick Riordan’s new series, “The Kane Chronicles.” Refreshments, Egyptian themed trivia games, costume contest. Free admission to the release party at 4 p.m. with purchase of the book (pre-order or at party). At 19 Wall St. Call 232-2228 or visit spellboundchildrensbookshop.com.

PHOTO BY JOHN FLETCHER

Chris and Flora Duffey dance to Ol’ Hoopty at LEAF. This spring’s festival is May 6-9.

May 5

Swannanoa Library Knitters Group for all skill levels meets 5-7 p.m. at Swannanoa Library, 101 W. Charleston St. Call 250-6486.

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Ends May 5

Mindbender Mansion Mindbender Mansion at the The Health Adventure is an eclectic place full of brainteasers and interactive

calendar of events challenges guaranteed to test the brain power and problem solving skills of even the most experienced puzzlers. In Pack Place, 2 S. Pack Square, Asheville. Call 254-6373 or visit thehealthadventure.org.

May 6-9

Lake Eden Arts Festival Music festival with crafts, dancing, kids village, performances from international to local acts and more at Camp Rockmont in Black Mountain. Children 9 and younger are free. For tickets, call 68-MUSIC or visit theleaf.com.

May 6 and 13

Childbirth class A two-session class for expectant parents covering the labor and delivery process, relaxation, breathing patterns, birth options, positioning and comfort measures. Bring two pillows and a blanket. Also includes tour of the Pardee Women and Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center. Runs 6:30-9 p.m. May 6 and 13. Cost is $40, or free with Medicaid. Registration required. At Pardee Hospital Orientation Classroom, 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville. Call 866-790-WELL.

May 7

Considering Home-schooling Workshop Biltmore Baptist Church Home School Ministry offers

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calendar of events Continued from Page 57 a Considering Homeschooling Workshop, 7-9 p.m. in Terrace Hall. Learn the benefits, the difficulties, what to expect, how to avoid common mistakes, and the keys to getting started. Child care available. Register by May 3. Contact Ronda Marshall at homeschool@biltmorebaptist.org.

Starts May 7

Preschool art classes Roots + Wings School of Art offers weekly art sessions for children ages 3-6, from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

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CAMPS Arden Seventh-day Adventist Church Summer FLAG day camp (Fun Learning About God), June 14-Aug. 13. Ages 5-12. The Arden Seventh-day Adventist Church, 35 Airport Road, hosts its Christian day camp daily through summer. Open house is 6-8 p.m. June 7. Camp includes games, swimming, field trips, crafts, music, nature classes, science experiments, life skills development, more. Pay by the day. Extended care available. Call 684-6700 or 989-2200 to register. Ardenadventist.org. Camp Pinnacle season canceled Camp Pinnacle, in Hendersonville, has canceled its 2010 camp season. The campâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s operator, Wolfe Lake Inc., has filed for bankruptcy protection. Contact the camp at 800-336-6992. First Stage Youth Theatre Summer Stage theater camp, July 12-16 and 19-24. Ages 8 and older. Camp in Mars Hill that culminates in Saturday performances each week. Morning session for ages 8-11 and afternoon session for ages 12 and older. The younger group will explore storytelling and myth while the older section will take an in-depth look at Devised Theater, a method which seeks to tap into the creative potential of each individual by allowing the students to function as actors, playwrights, directors, designers, poets and musicians. Firststageyouththeatre.com. Hendersonville Christian School Super Summer Camp, all summer At 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville. Theme weeks, field trips, more. Come for one week or all summer. Call 692-0556 or visit hcsmustangs.org.

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Kids page

Coloring

Maze

Dot-to-dot

Word search

bacon bagels cereal eggs granola

hash browns honey jam juice milk

muffins oatmeal omelets pancakes porridge

sausages toast waffles yogurt

WNCMOM.COM, THE PLACE WHERE LOCAL MOMS CONNECT

puzzles for parents Across

1. Either Houlihan or Burns from M*A*S*H 6. Cat sound 9. Lover’s strike 13. Remove from existence 14. “Four score and seven years ___” 15. Like N1H1 flu 16. One-story home 17. Read-only storage 18. Canned tomato product 19. The Beast’s Valentine 21. John Adams’ Valentine 23. DNA transmitter 24. Like a bug in a rug 25. AV manufacturer 28. Make a fool of 30. Fall asleep 35. Egg-layers 37. Whiskey without water 39. Luciano Pavarotti or Jose Carreras, e.g. 40. U2 guitarist 41. Eagle’s claw 43. Island east of Java 44. a.k.a. thaler 46. Spanish courtesy title for woman 47. Young herrings canned as sardines 48. Seismic vibration 50. Different version of #6 Across 52. Swedish shag rug 53. “I call first ____!” 55. Communist Zedong 57. FDR’s Valentine 61. Fred’s dance partner 64. _____-fire

65. George and Martha were its first famous couple 67. Triumph maliciously 69. Rough, as in voice 70. Wrath 71. Slow in music 72. Short for ukuleles 73. Nada 74. Literary composition

Down

1. “Sea” in French 2. Inhabitant of Middle East 3. Tarzan’s Valentine

4. Felix’s roommate 5. Like a picture moved to another wall 6. ____ Jane, Spider-Man’s Valentine 7. Id’s partner 8. Adam’s Eve was the first of these 9. Goods obtained illegally 10. ____ Marie, Michael Jackson’s former Valentine 11. Those not in favor 12. Banana skin 15. Water faucet 20. Tease or harass

22. Dog holder 24. Ski racer’s sport, pl. 25. Scarlett’s Valentine 26. Mothball substitute 27. Space between two intersecting lines 29. Old paint hazard 31. Short for debutantes 32. Broadcast in progress 33. Foolishness 34. Diego’s artistic Valentine 36. Appear 38. ____-deaf 42. This Watts is Liev Schreiber’s better half 45. Late comedian who got no respect 49. Site of 2016 Summer Olympics 51. Manipulate 54. Boston’s bear 56. Flirtatious stares 57. Beige 58. Pipe problem 59. “At ____, soldier” 60. Pharaohs’ cobras 61. Celt 62. Immeasurable periods 63. Pro ____, in proportion 66. ___ Lanka 68. Either Mr. or Mrs. Potato Head, e.g.

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calendar of events Continued from Page 58 Fridays, May 7-28. Session focuses on collage and mixed media. $50 plus $10 supply fee. Sibling discount. Classes held at the Cathedral of All Souls in Biltmore Village. Call 545-4827 or visit rootsandwingsarts.com for details and to register.

May 8

Camp Cedar Cliff open house Try activities like archery, BB guns, zip line and climbing wall as the camp opens for a day of summer fun. Lunch, inflatables, face painting, more. Free, but RSVP at campcedarcliff.org or 450-3331. Disc Golf Trip to Fontana Village Waynesville Parks and Recreation Department will offer a disc golf trip to Fontana Village for all ages. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. No experience is necessary. Free lessons are offered by appointment before the trip if you want to learn before going. Bring snacks, water, and money for lunch. $10 ($20 nonmembers for Waynesville Recreation Center). Call 456-2030 or e-mail recoutdoorprograms@townofwaynesville.org. Empowered Birthing classes Women’s Wellness and Education Center offers interactive classes that focus on natural childbirth, positions for comfort and hands-on massage techniques for labor. VBACs welcome. Breastfeeding and soothing a fussy baby incorporated into the class. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at 24 Arlington St., Asheville. $175. To

register call Trish at 231-9227 or visit ashevillewomenswellness.com/ChildbirthEducationClasses Glen Arden Spring Fling Glen Arden PTA hosts a carnival with games, inflatables, food, a basket raffle and more. 2- 6 p.m. at Glen Arden Elementary, 50 Pinehurst Circle, Arden. Hershey’s Track and Field meet Children ages 9-14 can compete at 9 a.m. at Asheville Middle School, 419 McDowell St. It is the 32nd year of the program hosted by Asheville Parks and Recreation. Events will include 50-meter, 100-meter, 200-meter, 400-meter, and 800-meter dashes; 1,600-meter run; 4x100 meter relay; standing long jump and softball throw. Events is open to all skill levels, including beginners. To register or for more information, contact Kim Turner at 232-4526 or kturner@ashevillenc.gov. Historic Tea Party Smith-McDowell House Museum hosts a Civil War-era tea party for boys and girls. Civil War re-enators will present the program, which includes refreshments and a craft. 11 a.m. $25 for adults, $20 for children, ages 7-12. The house is at 283 Victoria Road, on the A-B Tech campus. Call 253-9231. Kids Art Day Transylvania Arts Council offers a morning of creativity with mural painting, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $5 per child. Call 884-2787 to register. Lure of the Dragons Festival Lake Lure hosts dragon boat competition, with entertainment, food and kids’ activities. All day.

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calendar of events Continued from Page 61 May Faire Azalea Mountain Waldorf Community hosts its second May Faire, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. May pole dances, live music, children’s activities, crafts market, chair massage, more. At the Unity Church of Fletcher, 2041 Old Fanning Bridge Road. Visit azaleamountain.org. Pancake breakfast Cummings Memorial United Methodist Church, 3 Banner Farm Road, Horse Shoe, hosts a pancake breakfast, 8-11 a.m. $5. Call 891-9413. Storyteller Andy Offutt Irwin Storyteller, musician and entertainer extraordinaire Andy Offutt Irwin will be at the Weaverville Library at 3 p.m. For all ages. Laugh along with the adventures of his aunt Margeurite and the Southern White Old Lady Hospital. Enjoy his unusual sound effects and world class whistling. Call 250-6482 or e-mail weaverville.library@buncombecounty.org. Tiny Tykes Day Asheville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts hosts Tiny Tykes Day, a free festival for children under 5. Giant inflatables, Fire Engine No. 9, Nature Center animals, crafts, face painting, balloon twists, more. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Oakley Center, 749 Fairview Road. Contact Candy H. Shaw at 251-4042 or oakleyRec.C@ashevillenc.gov. Whole Bloomin’ Thing Wayneville’s Frog Level hosts its annual festival, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Growers and artists, live music, children’s activities and more. Wordfest for Kids: Shel Silverstein As part of Asheville Wordfest, Chris Martin’s Curtain

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOLS Biltmore Baptist Church, June 21-24: Buckaroo Roundup VBS, 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 3-fifth grade. At 35 Clayton Road. Biltmorebaptist.org, 687-1111. Biltmore United Methodist, June 13-17: Evening VBS. biltmoreumc.org. Central United Methodist, June 21-25: Egypt: Joseph’s Journey from Prison to the Palace. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Ages 3-fifth grade. $25 per child/$50 maximum per family. At 27 Church St., Asheville. Centralumc.org, 253-3316. Covenant Community Church, June 21-25: Galactic Blast VBS, 6-8:30 p.m. At 11 Rocket Drive, Asheville. Covenantcommunity.org, 298-8955. Fletcher United Methodist, June 21-25: High Seas Expedition VBS, 9 a.m.-noon. Fletcherumc.org, joy@fletcherumc.org. Lutheran Church of the Nativity, July 19-23: ReNew, 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 3-fifth grade. Nativity.ws.

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calendar of events Call Collective will perform poems and skits based on the works of Shel Silverstein from 10 a.m.-noon at Spellbound Children’s Bookshop. Participate by preparing a song, skit, poem, or any other 3-5 minute act. Free. All ages. At 19 Wall St. Call 232-2228 or visit spellboundchildrensbookshop.com.

May 9

Mother’s Day Celebrate your mom, stepmom, foster mom, adoptive mom, grandmother, all the moms in your life! Breast-feeding education classes 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Women’s Wellness and Education Center, 24 Arlington St., Asheville. $25. Classes are taught by Holly Major. Individual appointments are possible. For details or to register, call Holly at 250-0226. YUM for MUM Downtown Market hosts YUM for MUM, an ice cream and puppet social, 1-4 p.m. Moms get free ice cream cones. Sassy’s Storytime Marionette puppet theater and storytelling at 1:30 and 3:30. At 45 S. French Broad Ave. Visit DowntownMarketAsheville.com.

Ends May 9

‘The Scoop on Poop’ N.C. Arboretum presents an exhibit on “the science of what animals leave behind.” “The Scoop on Poop” is based on a book of the same name by Dr. Wayne Lynch. It explores how poop is used by animals, scientists, power companies and more. At the Baker Exhibit Center at N.C. Arboretum, off N.C. 191. Call 665-2492 or visit ncarboretum.org.

May 10-14

‘Llama, Llama Red Pajama’ The Penguin Players of the Dollywood Foundation Imagination Library return to Buncombe County Public Libraries to delight audiences with a dramatic adaptation of the popular children’s book by Anna Dewdney, “Llama, Llama Red Pajama.” Enjoy the story of Baby Llama who’s been tucked in and is wondering where his Mama Llama is with his bedtime drink of water. With costumes and original music written by Dolly Parton. All ages. Free. At these branches: ◆ May 10: Black Mountain, 10:30 a.m. ◆ May 11: Leicester, 10:30 a.m.; West Asheville, 6:30 p.m. ◆ May 12: Skyland/South Buncombe, 10:30 a.m.; Weaverville, 3:30pm ◆ May 13: Fairview, 10:30 a.m.; North Asheville, 6:30pm ◆ May 14: East Asheville, 11 a.m.

May 11

Sit and Knit Weaverville Library offers knitting for all levels, 1-3 p.m., 41 N. Main St. Call 250-6482.

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calendar of events Continued from Page 63

May 11-13

Letterland at Tweetsie Railroad Letterland, the popular reading program, comes to Tweetsie Railroad. Meet the Yellow Yo-yo Man, Eddy Elephant the Quarrelsome Queen of Letterland and more. Visit tweetsie.com.

May 12

Baby Place classes Park Ridge Hospital’s Baby Place, 100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville, offers these classes. Call 681-BABY to register. ◆ Breast-feeding class: Addresses benefits, challenges, more. $25. 7 p.m. ◆ Childbirth class: Class covers relaxation techniques, birthing options, pain relief techniques, medications and medical procedures, as well as a tour of Baby Place. $90 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cooking around the World Waynesville Recreation Center offers “Cooking Around the World,” 11 a.m.-2 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday of each month. All ages. Registration includes two hours of professional instruction from Chef Ambra Lowenstein. All materials are included. May 12 will be Greek, May 26 will be Italian and June 9 will be Indian. $24 per person per class for members ($30 nonmembers); $21 per person per class if you sign up for at least four classes. Call 456-2030 or e-mail recoutdoorprograms@townofwaynesville.org

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SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Tweetsie Railroad hosts “Letterland” characters from May 11-13. ‘Help the Grandkids are Coming’ Historic Johnson Farm presents “Help the Grandkids are Coming,” with a focus on creative ideas for spending time with your grandchildren. $5. Includes a 30-page booklet of hints, crafts, daytrips and more. Call 891-6585 to RSVP. At 1p.m. at Johnson Farm Interpretive Center at 3346 Haywood Road, Hendersonville. Holistic Parenting Forum The Holistic Parenting Forum is a free group that meets monthly to provide support, education and resources for a diverse community of parents committed to natural living. All meetings take place on

calendar of events the second Wednesday of every month at Earth Fare in West Asheville from 6-8 p.m. Children are welcome. For more information, call 230-4850 or e-mail shantisunshine@gmail.com Origami Folding Frenzy Learn new folds, share favorites, and meet fellow origami enthusiasts. All levels welcome. Paper is available at the museum store or bring your own. Cost is museum admission. From 4-5 p.m. the second Wednesday of the month at The Health Adventure, 2 S. Pack Place. Call 254-6373 or visit thehealthadventure.org. Talk on Behavioral Challenges Hands On! A Child’s Gallery hosts Dr. Charlotte Riddle, who will present “Addressing Behavioral Challenges in Young Children,” at noon. Lunch provided. Call 687-3947 to reserve a spot. At the museum, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville.

Starts May 12

Art classes Roots + Wings School of Art offers weekly art sessions for children ages 7-10, from 3:45-4:45 p.m. Wednesdays, May 12-26 and June 2. Session focuses on clay sculpture. $50 plus $10 supply fee. Sibling discount. Classes held at the Cathedral of All Souls in Biltmore Village. Call 545-4827 or visit rootsandwingsarts.com for information and to register.

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calendar of events Continued from Page 65

May 13

Meet a police officer Hands On! A Child’s Gallery offers kids a chance to meet a Hendersonville police officer and police dog. Free with admission. At 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Call 697-8333 or visit handsonwnc.org. Sky Watching Join The Health Adventure’s astronomers in front of Pack Place in downtown Asheville for nighttime sky watching. Get an up-close view of the moon, planets and stars, and all other happening galactic phenomena. The museum will have telescopes for all ages. Free. 8-10 p.m. Visit thehealthadventure.org.

May 13-15

‘Beauty and the Beast Jr.’ Asheville Catholic School presents performances at 7 p.m. May 13-15. Details at ashevillecatholic.org.

May 14

‘Nurturing the Three Intelligences’ Azalea Mountain Waldorf Community hosts Douglas Gerwin, well-known educator and author. Explore the intelligences of Head, Heart and Hands and the role they play in child development from infancy through adolescence. $10. At 7 p.m. at the Vesica Institute, 1011 Tunnel Road, Asheville. Call 296-8323 or visit azaleamountain.org. Parents’ Night Out Fired Up! Creative Lounge offers a program for kids, 6-9 p.m. at 26 Wall St., downtown Asheville. Drop off the kids for pizza, drinks and bisque items for the kids to paint. $25 per child. Call 253-8181 for reservations.

May 15

Black Mountain Garden Show and Sale The fifth-annual Black Mountain Garden Show and Sale runs 9 a.m.-6 p.m. on Sutton Avenue (across from the old train depot). Free children’s activities from 1–4 p.m. Chimney Rock Boy Scout Day Experience Chimney Rock, including optional rock climbing and camp overnight. Programs run 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Overnight programming is 7 p.m. May 15-8:30a.m. May 16. $14 per scout (adult chaperones required, one adult chaperone admitted free per 10 scouts); $11.50 per additional adult; additional $8 for overnight camping; $12 for overnight camping with dinner; $5 for additional children during programs. Visit chimneyrock.com. Horseshoe tournament Buncombe County Parks offers its annual Spring Horseshoe Tournament at Lake Julian Park, 1-4 p.m. All ages welcome. $10 per team (two players). To register, call Jay Nelson at 250-4269 or e-mail jay.nelson@buncombecounty.org. Nesting party Two local moms will teach cloth diapering, babywearing, swaddling and how to avoid harmful chemicals, 2-4 p.m., at Nest Organics, 15 N. Lexington Ave. Call 258-1901 to RSVP. Free.

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calendar of events Songbird Celebration The Cradle of Forestry in Pisgah National Forest offers guided bird walks, activities and more. 9 a.m.-2 p.m., with family activities starting at 1 p.m. focusing on bird adaptations, conservation and natural history. $5 for ages 16 and up. Call 877-3130 or visit cradleofforestry.com.

Closes May 15

Adventures with Clifford the Big Red Dog The Health Adventure’s new exhibit features Clifford the Big Red Dog. Board the Birdwell Island ferry and journey to the world of Clifford. See Emily Elizabeth and many of the residents of Birdwell Island. The exhibit offers numerous immersive “paws-on” adventures that reinforce “Clifford’s Big Ideas” — 10 simple, tangible life lessons designed to help young children navigate their world. At 2 S. Pack Square, downtown Asheville. Call 254-6373 or visit thehealthadventure.org.

May 17

Childbirth refresher class Designed for a couple who need a brush up on labor and birth choices. The class covers relaxation techniques, birthing options, pain relief techniques, medications and medical procedures, as well as a tour of Park Ridge Hospital’s Baby Place. 5:30-8:30 p.m. $55. At 100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville. Call 681-BABY. Plant swap Historic Johnson Farm hosts a plant swap. Bring your unwanted plants to swap with other gardeners, no fee. At 10 a.m. at 3346 Haywood Road, Hendersonville.

May 18

Asheville Catholic School open house Learn about Asheville Catholic and enroll for 201011. 4-6 p.m. at 12 Culvern St. Visit ashevillecatholic.org.

May 19

Infant CPR class Learn how to administer CPR to an infant at Park Ridge Hospital’s Baby Place. 7 p.m. Free. At 100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville. Call 681-BABY. Swannanoa Library Knitters Group for all skill levels meets 5-7 p.m. at Swannanoa Library, 101 W. Charleston St. Call 250-6486.

May 20

‘Allergy Free But Not Taste Free’ Cheryl Tuttle, RD, LDN, with Pardee Hospital’s Nutrition Services teaches recipes that are egg-, dairyand gluten-free. Samples and recipes provided. $5. From 2-3 p.m. at Pardee Health Education Center in Blue Ridge Mall, Hendersonville. Registration required. Call 866-790-9355. Breast-feeding class Learn the art of breast-feeding. Class covers breastfeeding basics to help give moms a good start. From 6:30-8 p.m. at Pardee Hospital, education classrooms, 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville. Call

MOMS GROUPS A sampling of support groups for moms in WNC. Arden Moms Meetup Group: A group for stay-at-home moms of preschoolers or babies in the Arden/South Asheville/Fletcher area. Visit meetup.com/arden-moms or contact Susan Toole at ArdenMoms@gmail.com. AshevilleMommies.com: Meet and greets for moms while kids play. Two sessions, 11 a.m.noon and 3-4 p.m. Wednesdays at The Hop Ice Cream and Coffee Shop, 640 Merrimon Ave. Asheville Moms with Multiples: Group for moms with multiples meets 7 p.m. the first Thursday of each month at the Women’s Resource Center on Doctors Drive, behind Mission Hospital. Meetings are an opportunity to share experiences and offer support in a social setting. Call 444-AMOM or visit !ashevillemom.com. Biltmore Baptist MOPS: MOPS is a place designed specifically for all mothers of children from infancy to kindergarten. Experience authentic community, mothering support, personal growth and spiritual hope. All mothers welcome. Meetings are 9:30-11:30 a.m. the first, third and fifth Wednesday of each month at Biltmore Baptist Church, 35 Clayton Road, Arden. Call 687-1111, e-mail mopsofbbc@yahoo.com or visit mopsofbbc.com. La Leche League of Asheville mornings: Pregnant moms, babies and toddlers welcome at all meetings. Meets at 10 a.m. the second Monday of the month at First Congregational Church on Oak Street. Contact a leader: Susan, 628-4438; Jessica, 242-6531; or Falan, 683-1999. La Leche League of Asheville evenings: Pregnant moms, babies and toddlers welcome at all meetings. Meets at 7 p.m. the third Monday of the month at Awakening Heart on Merrimon Avenue. Contact a leader: Yvette, 254-5591; or Molly, 713-7089. La Leche League of Hendersonville: Offers information and support for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Meets at 10 a.m. the second 866-790-WELL. Free. Registration required. Daddy Duty class Helpful ideas and tips for dads during the labor and birth process. At 6:30-8 p.m. at Pardee Hospital, Video Conference Room, 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville. Free. Registration required. Call 866790-WELL.

Wednesday of the month at Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Hendersonville, 2021 Kanuga Road. Babies and toddlers are welcome. For more information, Contact a leader: Andrea 676-6047, Katie 808-1490, or MC 693-9899. Mom2mom: Christian moms group meets at St. Paul’s Church, 32 Rosscraggon Road, Rosscraggon Business Park Building B, Asheville. Moms with any age children are welcome. Call 388-3598. Mommy and Me: Park Ridge Hospital offers a support group for moms at 10 a.m. the fourth Monday of the month. Contact Amy Mast at 216-7244. The hospital offers a luncheon for moms and babies, noon-1 p.m. the third Monday of the month, at the hospital’s private dining room. Call 681-2229. MOMS Club of Hendersonville: A support group open to mothers of all ages in the Henderson County area, including mothers who have home-based businesses and those who work part-time but are home with their children during the day. The group meets for speeches and topics for discussion, park days, playgroups, nights out, holiday activities and service projects benefiting needy children in the community. Meets 9:30 a.m. the first Thursday of the month at Hendersonville Church of Christ, 1975 Haywood Road, Hendersonville. Children welcome. Call Kerry at 692-7724 or visit hendersonvillemomsclub.wordpress.com Montreat/Black Mountain MOPS: Join other moms for fun, laughter and friendship. Group Meets 9-11 a.m. the second Tuesday of each month at Black Mountain United Methodist Church, 101 Church St. Free child care available. Call Michelle at 669-8012, ext. 4001, to reserve a spot. North Asheville MOPS: Meets 9:30-11:30 a.m. the first Monday of each month at Maranatha Baptist Church, 1040 Lower Flat Creek Road, Weaverville. Contact Jennifer Warner at 423-6180 or Liban Morris at lmorris_cid@hotmail.com.

May 21

Weaverville Library Teens Weaverville Library’s Teen Awesome Group is hosting a creative writing workshop to get ready for the

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calendar of events

YWCA Bon Voyage party YWCA of Asheville says goodbye to Aquatics Director Jean Coile, 2-4 p.m. Food, music and swimming. Open to the public. At 185 S. French Broad Ave. Call 254-7206 or visit ywcaofasheville.org.

Continued from Page 67 summer Open Mic Jam on July 16. Ages 12-18. At 4 p.m. at 41 N. Main St. Call 250-6482 or e-mail weaverville.library@buncombecounty.org. YMCA parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; night out The YMCA in downtown Asheville offers a parents night out for children ages 2-12. Activities include swimming, arts and crafts, inflatable obstacle course, snacks and a movie. Register online or in person (at least 24 hours before scheduled program). Offered 6:30-9:30 p.m. the third Friday of month. Cost is $12 for members ($24 nonmembers), with $2 sibling discounts. Call 210-5622 or visit ymcawnc.org.

May 22

Ballet class Ballet Conservatory of Asheville offers a free ballet class for all 3- to 5-year-olds at noon. Call 255-5777 or visit balletconservatoryofasheville.com. At 193 Charlotte St., Asheville. Chimney Rock Girl Scout Day Experience Chimney Rock, including hands-on nature activities and optional overnight. For all ages. Programs run 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Overnight programming is 7 p.m. May 22-8:30a.m. May 23. $14 per scout (adult chaperones required, one adult chaperone admitted free per 10 scouts); $11.50 per additional adult; additional $8 for overnight camping; $12 for overnight camping with dinner; $5 for additional children. Visit chimneyrock.com.

May 25

Leicester Library Knitters For all skill levels, 6:30 p.m., 1561 Alexander Road. Call 250-6480. Sit and Knit Weaverville Library offers knitting for all levels, 6-8 p.m., 41 N. Main St. Call 250-6482. SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Chimney Rock Park hosts Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts over two weekends in May. Sports physicals Hendersonville Sports Medicine offers free sports physicals to students at any Henderson County middle or high school. Call 692-1333.

May 23

Waldorf Community May Faire Azalea Mountain Waldorf Community hosts its second-annual May Faire, 2-5 p.m. May pole dances, live music, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crafting activities, local artist crafts market, chair massage, more. Also, learn more about local Waldorf-inspired programs. At the Unity Church of Fletcher, 2041 Old Fanning Bridge Road. Visit azaleamountain.org.

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May 26

Black Mountain Library Knitters Knitting group for all levels, 6:30 p.m. at Black Mountain Yarn Shop, 203 W. State St.

May 27

Infant care class Pardee Hospital offers a course on infant care from A to Z. From 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Pardee, education classrooms, 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville. Free. Registration required. Call 866-790-WELL.

May 28

Family movie night Cummings Memorial United Methodist Church, 3 Banner Farm Road in Horse Shoe, hosts a free family movie at 7 p.m. Free popcorn, drinks, candy, and

calendar of events apples and caramel. Call 891-9413 for the name of the movie.

May 28-30

Dog Agility Trial Watch dogs jump hurdles, race through tunnels and climb over A-frames at high speed at the American Kennel Club Dog Agility Trial at WNC Agricultural Center McGough Arena. 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. May 28-30. Free. Spectators welcome (leave dogs at home). Mountain Sports Festival A weekend of outdoor sporting activities, including a kids’ area, Iron Kids competitions, triathlon and more. Visit mountainsportsfestival.com.

May 29

Babysitter’s Training class For ages 11-15. Learn how to care for a child. Basic first aid included. Dress comfortable and bring lunch. 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at Asheville-Mountain Area Chapter, American Red Cross, 100 Edgewood Road, Asheville. $45. To register, visit redcrosswnc.org and click on “Take a Class” or call 258-3888. Barbecue Expo Live music, performances, barbecue. Benefits the Henderson County Education Foundation. Gates open at 10 a.m. At Hendersonville High School.

Celebrate Pregnancy childbirth class Pregnancy is a time to relax, reflect and prepare mentally, physically and spiritually for the transition to motherhood. This class is an exciting twist on normal childbirth class covering important labor techniques and labor support. Massage voucher and pregnancy art cast included. $99. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Park Ridge Hospital’s Baby Place, 100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville. Call 681-BABY. Memorial Day celebration Children can plant a flower to celebrate someone they love, The flowers then help honeybees survive. The farm provides the plants and pots. Free. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Echoview Farm, 534 Old Mars Hill Highway. Call 645-7667.

May 31

Memorial Day

June 3-4

‘Giselle’ Ballet Conservatory of Asheville performs “Giselle” at Diana Wortham Theatre. Tickets available at the theater or the studio, 193 Charlotte St. Visit balletconservatoryofasheville.com.

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June 4-13

Thomas the Tank Engine at Tweetsie Railroad Take a 25-minute ride with Thomas the Tank Engine, meet Sir Topham Hatt, enjoy storytelling, live music and more. Tickets are $32 (13 and older), $22 (ages 3-12). Children 2 and younger are free. Visit tweetsie.com.

June 5

Jump, Jive and Wail Children’s Festival Downtown Market hosts a children’s festival, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., with jump roping, hopscotching, dancing, singing, and Asheville’s first thumb wrestling competition. See Sassy’s Marionette Puppets perform. Prizes, food, more. At 45 S. French Broad Ave. in downtown Asheville. Visit DowntownMarketAsheville.com

June 10-Aug. 5

Woodsy Owl’s Curiosity Club The Cradle of Forestry offers a weekly summer nature program in which kids help Woodsy Owl in his conservation mission to “lend a hand, care for the land!” For ages 4-7. 10:30 a.m.-noon Thursdays. $4 per child per program, adults are $2.50. Reservations requested. Call 877-3130 or visit cradleofforestry.com.

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Kids take part in an event at the Mountain Sports Festival, which is May 28-30 this year.

June 11

Tee Up for Education Golf tournament at Grove Park Golf Course benefits Asheville City Schools Foundation. Captain’s Choice format with shotgun start at 1 p.m. $125 per player ($24 off regular greens fees cost). Includes lunch,

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cart and greens fee. Contact Leah Ferguson at 3506134 or acsf@acsf.org.

Ongoing

Introduction to Robotics Joel Horne (BS Mechatronics, UNCA) and Ian Riddell

calendar of events (Tek-Kids) are teaming up to offer an Introduction to Robotics course at the Movement and Learning Center on Biltmore Avenue. Learn how to design a robot from scratch. Call Ian at 423-4026 to receive an informational packet. Enrollment is ongoing and a new workshop is starting soon. Call by May 31 to reserve your spot. Preschool Play Date The Health Adventure hosts interactive fun just for preschoolers led by museum facilitators at 10:30 a.m. Thursdays. Visit thehealthadventure.org. Foundation Builders Create wooden racers, boats, helicopters, more. For ages 4-12. At 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Beaverdam Baptist Church, 399 Beaverdam Road, Asheville. Call 252-3403. Madison Junior Derby Divas roller derby league Blue Ridge Rollergirls members have started a Junior Roller Derby League, Madison Junior Derby Divas. It is a noncontact league designed to develop athletic abilities, build self-confidence and leadership skills, and improve overall fitness. Girls 12-17 practice 4:30-6:30 p.m. Fridays until July 31 in Marshall. Monthly fee of $15, plus annual $40 insurance fee. E-mail madisonderbydivas@hotmail.com. Waldorf kindergarten New Waldorf kindergarten enrolling children for this fall. Three-day program (MWF), 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Call Susanne, 252-1924. Children’s book artists exhibit Asheville Art Museum will host “Nouns: Children’s

Book Artists Look at People, Places and Things” through July 11. It looks at the varied art styles used in children’s book illustrations. The museum is at Pack Place, 2 S. Pack Square, Asheville. Visit ashevilleart.org. T-Bone’s Radio Active Kids Kid-friendly radio, hosted by Asheville-area kids from 8-10 a.m. Saturdays on ashevillefm.org. Swannanoa Valley Montessori School registration Registration continues for the 2010-11 school year at Swannanoa Valley Montessori School, which serves ages 18 months-sixth grade. Preschool is at 130 Center Ave., Black Mountain. Elementary students are at Carver Community Center in Black Mountain, with future plans to move those ages to a new site in Asheville. Visit swanmont.org or to schedule an appointment for a visit, call 669-8571 or e-mail swanmont@mac.com. Summer camp registration begins in March, see the Web site for details. Grove Park Inn programs The Sports Complex at the Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa offers two programs for children. Children will enjoy playing games and sports, making arts and crafts, swimming, eating pizza and watching a movie. For reservations, call 252-2711, ext. 1046, or e-mail mmiller@groveparkinnresort.com. ◆ Kids’ Night Out: 6-10 p.m. each Friday and Saturday, for children ages 3-12. Cost is $45 per child. Advance registration required. ◆ Cub’s Adventure Camp: A full-day (9 a.m.-4 p.m.) or half-day (9 a.m.-1 p.m. or 1-4 p.m.) program on Saturdays. Lunch included. Cost is $65 for full day; $45 for half-day morning with lunch; $30 for half-day afternoon.

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