May 2011 baystateparent Magazine

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MAY 2011

FREE

Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Families Since 1996

COME PLAY AT THE ALL-NEW baystateparent.com WE’VE GOT YOUR FAST PASS TO GIVEAWAYS See Page 74 CALLING ALL CAMPERS SIGN UP NOW

Meet eet Our Designing Women • 6 MASSACHUSETTS MAMAPRENEURS • OPEN HOUSE WITH CHRISTINE & FAYE • DECORATING TIPS FROM A SOUTH SHORE MOM

Voted Best Parenting Publication in North America 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2010

Make your mark. ®

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Montessori education at its best.

www.TheRiverbendSchool.org 15 months – age 6 49 Eliot Street, S. Natick, MA 01760 508.647.0888

We re giving away a night )irst Class

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HEROES WEEKEND DAVIS FARMLAND

3rd Annual

A VERY SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR

LOCAL HEREOS

We appreciate your steadfast commitment to our community. Davis Farmland recognizes local heroes May 14 & 15 with FREE admission for Active Firefighters, Police Officers, Armed Forces personnel and their families (ID required). We hope you can join us. Adults must be accompanied by a child 12 years old or younger.

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To advertise call 508-865-7070 or email sales@baystateparent.com. 6 MAY2011

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our special guest Caroline Shih, age 3 Portrait Simple Natick www.portraitsimple.com

14

LET’S ROLL

34

Skate parks are great for beginner skaters to ramp up their skills (even you, Mom and Dad!). Check out our top indoor and outdoor picks.

table M AY

2011

•

VOLUME

8 WELCOME 9 GUESTBOOK ON MY PLATE: Cleaning House

12 FINALLY, FOREVER: Haiti to Home IV

16

•

NUMBER

14 LET’S ROLL: Skate Parks 16 OH, THE PLACES YOU’LL GO Many of our regular features appear in our Mother’s Day and Home Sweet Home sections this month.

58

LOOK WHAT I LEARNED AT CAMP!

62 EASY WAYS TO PAY FOR WEIGHT LOSS CAMP

Beat bedroom boredom with a little decorating drama, and peek into three rooms designed by South Shore mom and decorator, Stacy Curran.

1

mother’s day

advertising directories

26 MASSACHUSETTS MOMPRENEURS

34 MOMS ROCK: Marleigh Brown, Wrentham 36 TAKE GOOD CARE: MOMMY BRAIN 37 DIRTY LAUNDRY WITH CHRISTINE HURLEY

13 MAY’S CHILD 13 CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

something special

Find out why Wrentham mom of three Marleigh Brown learned how to say no and be more selective with her time. She’s the cutest mom ever!

BEDROOM DRAMA

the of the home

in every issue 10

44

MOMS ROCK

home sweet home 40 OPEN HOUSE WITH CHRISTINE AND FAYE

44 BEDROOM DRAMA 46 48 49 50

33 43 52 68 70 74

MOM’S OASIS SHOW AND TELL SUMMER CAMP COUNTDOWN BULLETIN BOARD PARTY PLANNER ADVERTISING INDEX

sneak peek JUNE

SUMMER GUIDE

JULY

FAMILY HEALTH

AUGUST

CAPTURED: READER PHOTOS JUNKDRAWERS A DOWN-TO-EARTH HEATING AND COOLING SOLUTION EAT DIRT (AND YOUR VEGGIES TOO)!

BACK TO SCHOOL

Voted Best Parenting Publication in North America 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2010

FT <PZT :XSb B\X[T Our warm and kid-friendly office and reception rooms are designed to be welcoming, fun and special for the whole family. Pediatric Dentistry

Orthodontics

Bruce Stuart Fieldman, D.M.D., P.C. and Associates

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e m o c l e W “How come there isn’t a kids’ day?” I remember riding in the family station wagon, the Caprice Classic, with my parents and asking this question one Mother’s Day years ago. Their reply makes sense to me now, but then it was quite a revelation: “Because every day is kids’ day.” I didn’t think every day was kids’ day. I had to go to school, eat Shepherd’s Pie for dinner (blech!), set an example as the older sister, do my homework, go to bed before Three’s Company came on... In my mind, my parents got to oversee each glorious detail, and that was a lot more fun than I was having being a kid.

My own children asked me this very same question recently (Do all kids ask this?). Their inquiry was completely genuine and innocent. They really did not understand why there was a day to celebrate mothers and a day to celebrate fathers but not an official day to celebrate children. And like their mother years before, they also did not understand when I replied, “Because every day is kids’ day.” What’s really surprising me this Mother’s Day is not that my kids are using my day to ponder how to finagle yet another day of their own, but that I learned that “mommy brain” is a real thing and not just some term we moms throw around in jest to describe how forgetful and distracted we are. Dr. Kate McGonagle, a licensed psychologist and clinical nurse specialist at UMass, says it best on page 36, about why we moms are so distracted (so validating!) and what we can do about it. It’s good stuff. I am also in awe of all that moms are able to accomplish while raising their families. All hail the mamapreneur! Local mom, Stephanie Piscitelli of bellinipics.com, shares some of Massachusetts’ top mamapreneurs with us this month with her beautiful photography and interviews. Find your inspiration on page 26 as there is plenty of it! But the really big news this month is the all-new baystateparent.com. We’re feeling excited that our Online relaunch is going to make life easier for parents in Massachusetts. One of the best parts is that we now offer a searchable Online calendar where family events are listed by categories. And there’s more: • Lots of giveaways with easy-tofill out forms (Takes a minute. No

registering!) • All-new editor’s blog posting latebreaking events, news and more • Local parent bloggers (Want to join? Email editor@baystateparent.com) • All of 2010 archived in an easy-toturn, page-by-page format • A detailed map of where you can pick up our latest issue • A place to tell your family stories. Visit “Captured” at baystateparent. com and upload videos and pictures, and tell us the stories beind them (a great way to share birthday and holiday ideas, family outings and things to make us laugh) • A discussion board where you can post your recommendations for everything parent-related in Massachusetts and a place to get mom-to-mom advice about local things you need to know •Behind-the-scenes baystateparent videos and pictures (see what didn’t make print) Since most of the bsp staffers need this site for family life just as much as you do, we’ll be taking extra good care it. baystateparent.com is probably one of the few areas in your life where it will always be Mother’s and Father’s Day.

See ya Online! Carrie Wattu, editor

The Fun Teen Years baystateparent Celebrates 15 Years of Publishing May 1st!

Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Families

baystateparent publisher GARETH CHARTER 508-749-3166 x153 gcharter@holdenlandmark.com editor CARRIE WATTU 413-265-1202 editor@baystateparent.com

creative director PAULA MONETTE ETHIER 508-865-7070 baystateparent@holdenlandmark.com

promotions JENNIFER ANTKOWIAK 508-269-1728 jemsa2@charter.net

graphic designer STEPHANIE RENAUD 508-865-7070 srenaud@holdenlandmark.com

sales & business development manager STEPHANIE PEARL 774-364-0296 stephaniep@baystateparent.com account executive STACI LaTURNO 774-364-5073 stacil@baystateparent.com account executive EMILY RETTIG 774-364-4178 emilyr@baystateparent.com account executive DAWN HINES 413-626-2789 dawn@baystateparent.com contributing writers STACY CURRAN BRITTANY DURGIN TARA LYNNE GROTH CHRISTINE GUANIPA CHRISTINE HURLEY DR. KATE MCGONAGLE

DONNA MORIN MILLER STEPHANIE PISCITELLI TRISH RESKE BONNIE TOOMEY

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photographers BRITTANY DURGIN STEVEN KING PORTRAIT SIMPLE Illustrator RUSTY GAECHTER

presidents KIRK and LAURIE DAVIS

baystatestateparent 117 Elm St., Millbury, MA 01527

508-865-7070

MEET OUR LOCAL COVER MODEL

www.baystateparent.com campguide.baystateparent.com www.massfieldtrips.com

Caroline Shih

baystateparent Inc. is published monthly with a main office at 117 Elm Street, Millbury, 01527 508-865-7070 Fax 508-865-7979 It is distributed free of charge throughout Massachusetts. www.baystateparent.com • info@baystateparent.com

age 3 1. If you could treat your mother to a day out this Mother’s Day, where would you take her and what would you do? To have ice cream... and then to paint [pottery]. 2. Our May issue talks about the family home. Tell us: what does your bedroom look like? It’s pink with lots of shelves for all my things. [Note from Caroline’s mom: Her room is actually painted yellow! See her answer to the next question.] 3. What does your dream bedroom look like? It would be pink. It would have a big bed like my sisters’. And lots of princess stuff. 4. Tell us about your siblings: David is a little baby [8 months]. He’s such a 8 MAY2011

Distribution Agency: Insight Distribution Management 978-728-7785/603-661-8370 • Insightdm@yahoo.com

cutie pie! Emily and Amanda are 7 years old. I miss them so much [they were at school]. When I see them, I just want to hug them and kiss them and tickle them all over! I’m so happy when I see them! 5. What was your favorite part of your baystateparent photo session at Portrait Simple? My favorite was the tickling part [Paulette, the photographer, tickled her a few times] because I laughed. I was being silly and goofy...and the spinning because it was fun... and Oatmeal [the live bunny she held in some of the shots].

Massachusetts' premier magazine for families has earned more than 130 national and regional awards since 2004, including 30 in 2010: portrait simple

Ray of Sunshine ENTER TO WIN this sunny size 4T eyelet dress with white and gray flowers at baystateparent.com. This dress is available at Marshalls. For more information, visit MarshallsOnline.com.

17 Parenting Publications of America Awards 8 New England Newspaper Press Association Awards 5 Suburban Newspapers of America Awards Including Best Parenting Publication in North America 2010

GUESTBOOK Big Bros: Carsen and Branden Cray of Ashland (now 20 months and 3 years old) are new big brothers to Damen, age 3 weeks old. Congratulations boys!

A

few months ago you ran an article about the Great Escape Play Cafe [in Leominster]; it has now become a go-to favorite when my 3.5-yearold boy needs to blow off some of his abundant energy. Kelly McLinden, Fitchburg Thank you for discussing the risks associated with synthetic food coloring in “How to Create a Healthy Easter Basket� (April 2011). Although not every child demonstrates noticeable hyperactivity after eating these chemicals, there is evidence to suggest that no child or adult for that matter should be ingesting these non-food substances. I recently learned that Kraft Mac and Cheese is sold in Europe and Australia with all-natural food coloring, and that they continue to sell the artificial version in the US to save money and because, frankly, American parents still buy it. I think articles like yours help inform parents and empower us to demand the best for our children! Thanks for a great job! Carol Haagensen, Westborough I was very amazed with the outstanding number of options for summer camp and the informative information (April 2011 issue). Tracey R Goggans, Lexington Great magazine! I especially love the activities section. You can’t get a more comprehensive section anywhere else. Claire Sullivan, Holden Editor’s Note: For more information on the new book, Help Me Get Ready to Read by Susan Marx and Barbara Kasok, (April

<]e 3\`]ZZW\U SHREWSBURY MONTESSORI SCHOOL Excellence in Montessori Education for Children age 2.9 through grade 6 Pre-primary age 2.9 - 3 years Half Day and Full Day Programs for Preschool & Kindergarten Elementary Program for Grades One through Six

Junkdrawers 2011) visit readaloudguide. com. This practice guide teaches adults how to read aloud to children during their first five years.

You know you’re a baystateparent when... “you get a big handful of lilacs from your child on Mother’s Day!� -bsp staff To send an idea for “You know you’re a baystateparent when...� email editor@baystateparent.com. Winners will be sent a prize.

Independence • Creativity • Self-Discipline • Confidence • Academic Excellence

Call for a Parent Tour Today! (508) 842-2116 www.shrewsburymontessori.org

Campuses in Shrewsbury and Auburn

WINNERS! baystateparent giveaways are announced on our newly-launched Web site, baystateparent.com, under “Giveaways� as well as on our Facebook page (Join our page today by searching “baystateparent Magazine.�) Congratulations to the Chacharone family of Shrewsbury for winning a family fourpack to Disney’s Imagination Movers at the Hanover Theatre, Worcester. Thoughts on our May issue? Email your comments and suggestions to editor@baystateparent.com. All letters will be edited for clarity and length. Please include your full name and town for publication.

D A N C E

H& H A C A D E MY “Your Neighborhood Dance Studio�

Call for Details 508.865.0083

Dance Camps Ages 6-10 July 11th-15th July 25th-29th August 8th-12th Itty Bitty Dance Camp Ages 3-5 July 11th-15th August 8th-12th 3 Intensive Weeks of Dance Classes for Advanced Dancers

175 West Main St. ~ Millbury, MA 01527 hhdanceacademy@yahoo.com ~ www.hhdanceacademy.com BAYSTATEPARENT 9

ONMYPLATE

Coming Clean BY

J

odie is due to arrive at my doorstep in under an hour. Oh my God what have I done? I furtively eye the state of the kitchen to assess the damage and formulate a plan of attack.

I start with the center island. Plastic Cheerio-encrusted cereal bowls, Chloe’s sunglasses and her handmade ceramic cup, the shape of which resembles something in a House of Mirrors. Caleb’s cardboard castle

trish reske

creation, with toilet paper roll turrets and Scotched-taped mortar. A business reply envelope with haphazard phone messages (“Call plumber – sewage pump leaking”) scrawled across its bare spots. Dried, syrupy mysterious goo. A pillar candle with fingernail art carved in its sides. I toss the bowls into the dishwasher, gather up the rest and shove it behind the couch in the family room. Goodbye for now! I exalt in my clutter-busting creativity as I Mr. Clean the counter surface.

An interior designer – coming to my house. Oh, the sheer horror of it! I am aghast as I look at the room through a discerning designer’s eye and feel the hot shame of being found out that I never left the 90s. There is nothing – zilchzero-contemporary about my flowered wallpaper, my rosy throw rug, my paleplaid balloon curtains encrusted with sticky dust. And the oak — oh the oak. It’s everywhere –oak cabinets, oak floor, oak table. Even my napkin holder is oak. It is ingrained everywhere. Ding dong! The Pottery Barn paramedic is here! Ready to air out the stagnating sight and breathe new life into my atrophied abode. I take a deep breath and hurry to the door. “Jodie! How nice to see you!” I swoon. Jodie looks stunning – as always. She is adept at accessorizing. This should come as no surprise, but in a way, it’s comforting. She oozes simple yet chic, and I begin to ease a little in my doubt. I think she just may be able to fix me. “C’mon in! I hope you don’t mind – I’ve been so busy, I haven’t had a moment to clean,” I fib. Jody walks in, smiles and places her Gucci bag on my white Formica counter. As she scans the kitchen, I want to offer her a barf bag, but decide on coffee instead. We begin talking in a casual way about our kids (her daughter and my son know each other), and my shoulders

Imagine…

Summer

SMART SUMMER FUN FOR KIDS ENTERING GRADES 6–12

begin to ease. I feel like she knows; it’s nothing new (literally), that the true color of one’s life isn’t found in a fabric swatch or a paint chip. I revel in this deep truth. We get along quite well, and by the end, I’m actually happy I asked her to come over. I feel buoyed visualizing chocolate browns and subtle greys. I’m ready to come clean from the clutter in my life. Jody’s talking about furniture placement, and I’m thinking, Yes! Furniture placement, I like that idea, it makes so much sense! My poor flowered couch has been glued to the same spot for fifteen years, the legs permanently sunk deep in the taupe carpet. Jody shifts the couch, just enough, to show me the true possibilities of furniture placement. From behind the couch spill the castle, the cup, and the candle into plain view. But that’s not all - no, no. There are hardened smelly socks, stubby pencils, candy wrappers, and – oh! I can’t even mention the rest. I look at Jody, shrug my shoulders and remark in mock horror, “Those kids! They always shove their stuff somewhere when I tell them to clean!” She buys the line. I’m redeemed, for the moment anyway. Trish Reske is a Westborough freelance writer and mom of four. Visit her at trishreske.com.

Enjoy Our Picturesque Farm Setting

a new kind of summer. WPI Summer Programs challenge kids with creative, interactive, and fun experiences that expand their horizons. On our beautiful campus in the heart of New England, led by faculty and students, your children will go beyond their imagination.

Register now. Enrollment is limited. Advanced Robotics for grades 6–8 NEW WPI Advanced Mathematics Program for grades 7–9 Emerging Filmmakers for grades 11–12 NEW Leadership Academy for Young Women for girls, grades 8–10 NEW Great Problem Seminars: Sustainability for grades 11–12 Teen Entrepreneurs for grades 10–12 Destination Imagination for grades 10–12

Visit wpi.edu/+summer for full details and to register online, or call 508-831-4900.

10 MAY2011

481 Purgatory Rd., Whitinsville, MA

Advertorial

Tooth Talk Sippy cup, friend or foe? Dr. Sumbul Naqvi As a mother of two young girls, I know how every child comes into this world with their own personality. When a child reaches a milestone, there is nothing but rejoice in a parent’s voice. One big milestone that I hear all the time from parents is “the baby just stopped taking the bottle and has switched to a sippy cup.� And I could not agree more. It is a big achievement and now the baby is almost a young adult. But what a lot of parents do not realize is that if a sippy cup is not used properly it can cause a lot of irreversible damage. Milk, formula and fruit juices are very high in sugars. If a child is given any one of these drinks (I would hate to think that a child this age would be consuming soda), parents need to make sure that these are only restricted to their meal times. If the same drink is consumed over the period of a few hours then it can cause severe rampant tooth decay. Drinking at will should be restricted to water only. Doctors orders for this month: Use the sippy cup in its proper way and prevent tooth decay in your child! For more information on children’s dental health or an appointment, please call our office at 508-270-5050 Email Dr. Naqvi at atlantisdental@myatlantisdental.com or post a question on the Atlantis Dental Facebook page.

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BAYSTATEPARENT 11

FINALLYFOREVER

Haiti to Home: BY

photos courtesy of the gagnons

A Family For Roselande’s Brother Too Part 4 bonnie j. toomey

The Gagnon family of Pelham, NH is using their 2010 tax refund to adopt 9-year-old Dieuluxson from Haiti.

Last August, 12-year-old Trevor Gagnon traveled to Haiti to meet his future brother, Dieuluxson, for the first time. The Budd family counts the days until 12-year-old Roselande comes home to Acton, Massachusetts. Their journey began 16 months ago when they decided to adopt the girl they were sponsoring through church a month after the devastating earthquake hit Roselande’s home in Haiti. In November 2010, Sue Budd personally delivered official adoption documents to Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Haiti, but it could be as long as another year before Roselande comes home. Roselande prays for her two younger brothers, Dieuluxson and Sebastien, hoping a family out there will adopt them soon.

The

Budds were moving forward in the process of adopting 12-yearold Roselande yet they couldn’t stop thinking about her two little brothers who would stay one time zone and 2,000 miles behind in Haiti. An email from the Budd’s’ church, Grace

12 MAY2011

Community in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, began to circulate: “If you have a strong, immediate want to adopt, please contact Servants for Haiti.” A Pelham New Hampshire couple, Derek and Tammy Gagnon, received the message. “I felt a calling for a long time,” says Tammy Gagnon, who was mortified after seeing the consequences the January 2010 earthquake brought upon the children of Haiti. “My heart went out to the people of Haiti,” says her husband Derek who works as an accounts manager for Nalco. “Tammy said the word ‘adoption,’ and I was thinking it,” he explains. A few days later, the Gagnons decided to adopt Roselande’s 9-year-old brother, Dieuluxson, using their 2010 tax refund. “I never knew I could love someone so much that I hadn’t even met yet,” says

Derek, who made the trip to Haiti in August 2010 with his 12-year-old son, Trevor. Five dads, including Fred Budd, traveled to meet their new sons and daughters for the first time. At the end of their August 2010 visit, Derek had to peel Dieuluxson’s arms from around him. There was no question the love growing between Dieuluxson and the Gagnons. “We will have lots of cousins, now,” exclaims the Gagnon children, 9-year-old, Olivia, 11-year-old, Abby, and 12-yearold Trevor. Even though there is a language barrier between the kids and their future brother right now, they still love to have fun on Skype and manage to find a way to communicate with one another by making funny faces and listening to music together. “He cries every time,” says Tammy. During Tammy’s November 2010 visit to meet Dieuluxson, she burst into tears at the crowded conditions and babies on blankets on the floor. Tammy, who works at a local food bank, says, “I know there’s hunger here in this country too, but it was eye opening for me.” At first she was uneasy, but she soon realized how lucky the children were when she remembered the homeless children she had seen on

the streets as they made their way by taxi through the crumbled city of Port au Prince. Even though the conditions seemed less than perfect, the orphans were kept clean, the orphanage was run smoothly, and the children went to school and church religiously. Young Dieuluxson was wearing a pair of size 5 slim pants, a much-too-big-for-him size 12 shirt and a pair of shoes which were too small. “Next time I will bring shoes and clothes down with me,” Tammy muses, already contemplating another visit to see her son. Sue Budd and Tammy Gagnon plan to keep the siblings in each other’s lives once they bring them home to New England through family dinners, special events and holidays. The Gagnon sisters can’t wait to meet their new brother and introduce him to their yellow lab, Sam, and the two cats which they adopted last winter during a snowstorm, Snickers and Scooter. “It’s been a year of adoption,” says Tammy with a heartwarming smile. “What if he (Dieuluxson) doesn’t love me?” asks Olivia, the youngest of the bunch. “No matter what we do, the most

important thing is, he is coming home with us,� says Derek who also experienced a little apprehension leading up to the initial meeting required by Kids Kingdon Orphanage with his adoptive son. But after spending a few days in Haiti together and watching his sons, Trevor and Diueluxson, play, Derek says, “You know you’ve truly bonded when he falls down and he looks to us to brush him off and hug him.� Columnist and writer, Bonnie J. Toomey is mom to four interesting children and grandmother to two more. She lives with her child-groom of 30 years, and their dog, Molly, in New England. For more information, visit Bonnie’s blog at parentforward.blogspot.com.

CIRCLEOFFRIENDS Highlights of May’s Adoption-Related Events ‘Tween and Teen Girls Matching Night. Wed., May 18, 6 – 8 p.m. Brookline Public Library – Putterham Branch, 959 West Roxbury Pkwy., Chestnut Hill. For Families interested in females 8 years old and up (and their siblings). Appropriate for families who have at a minimum begun the process of enrolling in MAPP training. Waiting children will not be present. Preregistration encouraged but not required. To register email dianet@mareinc.org. Sponsored by MARE. MARE’s Walk for Adoption. Sun., May 22: Hosted by Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange

– MARE – at Jordan’s Furniture corporate headquarters, 450 Revolutionary Dr., East Taunton, 9 a.m. - 12 noon. Join Eliot from Jordan’s and WCVB’s Bob Halloran, NECN’s Eileen Curran, and hundreds of other families. This indoor/outdoor event is a celebration of adoption with refreshments, entertainment, games and a family-friendly 5K (or shorter) walk and party. Proceeds support MARE’s mission to find “a permanent place to call HOME� for the hundreds of children in foster care. $15 for walkers 12 and older, FREE for C under 12. Online Registration: firstgiving.com/mare. 617-54-ADOPT (617-542-3678), MAREinc.org. Please submit June’s adoption-related events by Thursday, May 5th at baystateparent.com, Calendar/ Submit an Event.

Schools, Parties, Corporate Events & Special Needs Shows Include:

MAY’SCHILD

Amanda, age 11

Amanda is a quiet, shy 11-year-old Caucasian girl who thrives on praise and attention. Legally free for adoption, Amanda enjoys drawing, painting, board games and puzzles. She is a talented artist and a good swimmer. Amanda’s foster mother says Amanda is a well-behaved child who helps with chores around the house. She has a great sense of humor and loves nice clothes and getting her nails done. Amanda is currently in a 5th grade classroom

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devoted to academic disabilities. She requires constant supervision and receives services for her emotional and intellectual disabilities. Her social worker is looking for a two-parent family that can continue to advocate for Amanda’s educational services. It also would benefit Amanda to be around girls, but they would have to be older girls. For more information about Amanda, or the adoption process in general, please contact Department of Children and Families Adoption Supervisor Jamie Caron at (413) 4523355.

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never been one to sit on the sidelines while my boyfriend did his own thing. If it is your intention to raise a girl with this same mindset, I say, check out a skate park (many offer discounts and free admission for girls on select days). Skateboarding is for anyone who has the ambition to learn and the determination to fall and get back up. While there will be a handful of kids at skate parks with the stereotypical “bad attitude,” I’ve found encouragement at the skate park, no matter how small, making it a very positive place. Most skate parks have plenty of flat areas where new skaters can get the feel of standing, pushing and turning. These flat areas are also clean and for the most part, pebble-free to prevent hang ups and 14 MAY2011

brittany durgin

SCRAPE at the Skate Park falls. They are also smooth, which makes it easier to get speed when pushing. Parks are also a good place for beginners to learn because they can watch and learn from other skateboarders. From smooth flat ground to overhead drop-in ramps, there are plenty of levels of progression.

LOVE at First Scrape For me, it all started on a weekday night at Mass Skate Coalition in Shrewsbury (known today as Subliminal). I was left with my boyfriend’s skateboard and a row of empty chairs usually filled with parents watching their children skateboard. Justin, my boyfriend at the time, was taking photos of bikers doing tricks in the street section of the indoor park. Boredom and my will to learn new

things had me out of my seat and standing in the middle of a four-foot mini ramp, curved wood walls wrapping up to my left and right. I stood looking down at the skateboard and thought, “If everyone else can do this, so can I.” I took an unsteady step onto the board with one foot and gave myself a weak push with the other. By the end of the night, I was pushing with longer kicks and starting to feel the right moment on the curved walls of when to bend my knees, giving myself more momentum to pump myself higher and higher on the transitions. Since that night, skateboarding has been a part of my life in more ways than being just a hobby. I’ve made many friends who I’ve spent days with road-tripping to parks all over the region, gone to their house parties where we stayed up all night laughing and cheering on their homemade

ramps. These friends I most likely would not have met without skateboarding and I can happily say that years later they’re some of my best, most encouraging friends. Through these skateboarding adventures, I’ve learned the power of determination, the ability to grow and continue to learn and the feeling of self-worth, whether from teaching a younger skateboarder how to “drop in” for the first time or from feeling confident after a day of healthy exercise. As a female with a desk job, the latter becomes more of an important added bonus every year. Skateboarding hath no season. Unlike most sports in New England that depend on dry fields or snow- covered mountains, skate parks are open no matter what the sky is dropping. Skateboarding is also affordable. Any

and inline better. They also give free day passes to kids who participate in a Read to Ride program and girls skate free on Tuesdays. ryeairfield.com. Subliminal, Shrewsbury: A redesigned skatepark that features a mini-ramp, a bowl and large street section. Threehour sessions are priced accordingly: $15 weekday, $20 weekend. 508755-6900. To view hours of sessions: subliminalskateboardpark.com. Junction, Springfield: This all-indoor park includes a mini, a stair set with a rail on each side, boxes, ramps and ledges. It’s located on Carew Street. The park is closed on Mondays and open until 9 p.m. every night except Sunday when they close at 8:00. The park offers skate camps; details can be found on their web site: junctionskateinc.com.

Skateboarding is for anyone who has the ambition to learn and the determination to fall and get back up. INDOOR Skate Parks Most of the indoor parks require a child to sign a waiver, and do not allow parents to sign waivers for their children’s friends. If a parent is not going to be present for a child under the age of 18, some parks allow the form to be signed ahead of time but must be notarized. Helmets are usually required, and most indoor skate parks offer helmet rentals (they don’t typically rent elbow and knee pads). Most indoor skate parks have boards, wheels and hardware (trucks, bearings, etc.) for sale. Rye Airfield, Rye, NH: One of the best and most family-friendly indoor skate parks in New England is located in Rye, New Hampshire (just north of Hampton Beach). The park is 50,000 square feet and has all types of features including street style courses, both wood and concrete bowls and a vert ramp. Rye Airfield offers a $20 family deal on Saturdays from 9 – 11:45 a.m. plus day and overnight ramp camps to teach kids to skateboard, BMX

Skaters Edge, Taunton: Massachusetts’ largest indoor skate park is well over 30,000 square feet of wall-to-wall terrain. Beginners and pros shred it up on their popular snowman bowl as well as their real street section full of stairs, hubbas and rails. You can skate all day for $25, and girls skate free on Tuesdays. skatersedgeinc.com. RAD Skatepark, Mendon: RAD is the place for birthday parties, and lessons are also available. Pricing is: $10 session/$15 full weekdays; $12 session/$20 full weekends and girls always skate for half price. Take a virtual tour of the park at radskatepark.com.

Newburyport Skate Park: Constructed 10 years ago, this relatively-new park offers three concrete bowls that are widely acclaimed as being some of the smoothest with best transitions in the region. The park is open Monday – Friday, 2:30 - 8 p.m. (or sunset, whichever comes first); Saturday, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m., and Sunday, 1 – 5 p.m. It’s located behind the Rupert Nock Middle School on Low Street and is designed to accommodate beginners to experts. Newburyport also makes a great daytrip to enjoy beaches, shopping and restaurants before or after skating. 978462-6680.

are 10 a.m. until dark. Downtown Northampton is an eclectic town to eat and shop after skating. 413-587-1040. Wellfleet Skate Park: Pack your skateboard when you head to the Cape. This park sits right on the ocean at Baker’s Field on Kendrick Avenue. It’s open seven days a week from 9 a.m. until dusk. Helmets are required. 508-3490300. Brittany Durgin is Online editor for baystateparent’s sister publication, Worcester Mag. She lives for photojournalism, skateboarding, snowboarding, coffee and her dog, Radley.

Veteran’s Field Skate Park, Northampton: Check out one of the largest concrete bowls in the state on 88 West Street in Northampton. Hours

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local skate shop will be able to set your child up (and you, if willing!) with all the hard goods and protective gear needed, but I recommend borrowing a friend’s board to make sure you like it first. After that, you’ll want your own so you can adjust the tightness of your trucks, size of your wheels - all things that will effect how the board rides. A skate-specific helmet is best because it covers different areas of the head than a bike helmet will. However, there are some companies like Bern Inc. that make all-season helmets so that your child can use one helmet for biking, skating and snowboarding. Encouraging your child to be enthusiastic about trying a new activity and getting some fresh air will surely put a smile on both your faces (and possibly a scrape or two they can boast about at school lunch!). Some of my favorite indoor and outdoor parks follow.

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OH, THE GO

Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off andaway! - dr. seuss

courtesy of the Cambridge Science Festival

PLACES YOU’LL

GO SPINNERS: The ballpark has never been so much fun with sleepovers, Star Wars nights and more! lowellspinners.com. 16 MAY2011

GO BUTTERFLY: Take a magnificent journey through a butterfly’s life cycle at the unforgettable Compagnia TPO’s Farfalle, May 10 - 15, Boston. celebrityseries.org.

courtesy of Cirque Eloize

courtesy of Celebrity Series

courtesy of the Lowell Spinners

GO SCIENCE: Get your science on during a nine-day family-friendly festival celebrating math, engineering and more. April 30 - May 8, throughout Cambridge. cambridgesciencefestival.org.

GO CIRQUE: Break dancers, acrobats, contortionists and more bound into Boston with Cirque Éloize. May 10 - 15. citicenter.org/id/

OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO MELTDOWN WARNING: Before you pack up the mini-van, please confirm your destination. Although we’ve done our best to assure accuracy at press time, things can and do change… A Adult C Child Y Youth M Member NM Non-Member PP Per Person

1SUNDAY FREE For Parents Parental Authority vs Children’s Autonomy. Parenting Through a Jewish Lens,659 Elm St., Concord. 10 – 11 a.m. How do you respond to your child when he or she challenges your instructions? 617-559-8733, hebrewcollege.edu/ parenting.

ONGOING Masters of Flight: Birds of Prey. Stone Zoo, 149 Pond St., Stoneham. Runs thru Sept. 5, 11 a.m. and 1 & 3 p.m. Features 16 different bird species from around the world in this engaging, memorable and educational experience for visitors of all ages. These birds will fly in from overhead and demonstrate natural behaviors including unique survival techniques and food foraging, as well as specialized physical adaptations. A $13,Sr.$11,C$9. 617-541-5466, stonezoo.org.

3TUESDAY FREE Breastfeeding Support Group. Mothers and Company, West Boylston. Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. and Mondays, 1 p.m. (except holidays). For all moms, those breastfeeding a freshly-born baby, those having challenges, those interested in learning more about using a breastpump and those interested in figuring out how to breastfeed in public. RSVPS appreciated but not required: mothersandcompany.com.

the program. Registration is required. $25pp. 508-898-2688, barrettfamilywellness.com. For parents 2nd Annual Dress for a Cause. Wellesley Country Club, Wellesley. 6 - 9 p.m. Designer Sara Campbell joins Kenzie Kids and K Girl of Wellesley for an evening of fashion and fun for both men and women. The evening includes a cocktail reception, expert-led scotch tasting, premiere silent auction and the highlight of the evening; a spring fashion show. All to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Ticket information: stjude.org/dressforacause.

FREE Open Sensory Gym. The Barrett Family Wellness Center, The Autism Resource Center and The Charles River Autism Support Center have teamed to offer free open sensory gym time at the Barrett Family Wellness Center, 107 Otis St., Northborough. 12 – 4 p.m. Siblings under age 14 are welcome. Parents are asked to stay to provide more supervision. Registration is required and will be signed up on a first come/first serve basis. Please contact Sue Loring, Director of the Autism Resource Center at sloring@hmea.org or 508-835-4278. autismresourcecentral.org. Frogs, Pollywogs & Fairies...Exploring the Vernal Pool. Mass Audubon’s Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot St. (Rt.16), Natick. 1 – 2:30 p.m. Explore what hides under the water and lives around this seasonal pool. Pre-registration required. A$12, C$8 NM. 508-655-2296, massaudubon.org/ broadmoor.

2MONDAY ONGOING Story and Healthy Snack Time. Whole Foods Market , 575 Worcester Rd., Framingham. Every Monday at 10:30 a.m., For children ages 2 - 6. 508-628-9525.

OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO

ONGOING Alice in Wonderland. Sorenson Center for the Arts, Babson College, Park Manor South. Boston. May 6 – 8. Fri. 7:30 p.m.; Sat. 2 & 7:30 p.m.; Sun. Noon and 4 p.m. Join Boston Ballet School Newton as they celebrate students’ hard work and accomplishments of the past year in a family-friendly production of the beloved children’s story Alice in Wonderland. The production includes newly created sets, costumes, and choreography with music by Peter Tchaikovsky. Visit bostonballet.org for cost and ticket information.

5THURSDAY

ONGOING Big Apple Circus Dance On! City Hall Plaza, Government Center, Boston. Opened April 2 and runs for 67 performances through Sun., May 15. $15pp. 888-541-3750, 800-922-3772, bigapplecircus.org.

Celebrating Mothers! A Benefit for Room to Grow. Liberty Hotel, Boston. 8 a.m. Celebrate inspirational mothers who nurture children, strengthen families and help build our community. Room to Grow is a nonprofit organization that provides parents raising

7SATURDAY

courtesy of the Ipswich Moving Company Youth Dance Ensemble

FREE Crane Estate Spring Open House. 290 Argilla Rd., Ipswich. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Both Crane Beach and Castle Hill on the Crane Estate will be open. Events include lawn games, a may pole dance, landscape tours, a nature walk and a family quest. Castle Hill’s 59-room mansion, the Great House, will be open for self-guided tours and refreshments. Additionally, The Crane Estate’s summer camp SummerQuest will join the fun with their own open house and scheduled camp games. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic and spend the day, but please leave furry friends at home. 978-356-4351, thetrustees.org. ONGOING Revolutionary Revelry: Lexington’s May Festival. Locations throughout Lexington, Massachusetts. May 1 – 31. A month-long celebration of arts, culture, recreation and business. Daily events. See the calendar at tourlexington.us for a full schedule. Cost varies by event, but most are free. 781-862-0500 x 260.

6FRIDAY

See a May Pole dance at Crane Estate’s Spring Open House, May 1, Ipswich, thetrustees.org.

4WEDNESDAY Girl Scout Craft and Registration. The Clinton and Lancaster Girl Scouts will hold an early bird registration / swap event at the Clinton Elementary School cafeteria. 6 – 7:30 p.m. Returning Scouts can come and register for next year and interested girls can register for the first time. Registration is $12 per year. Christine, 978-365-2770. FREE Wee Care Oral Health Program. Melvin “Dr. Mel” Ehrlich, D.D.S., 223 Walnut St. Ste 22, Framingham. 10 a.m. Free seminar with examination designed to help parents assure a cavity-free child for those under 3. The informal format assures that all parents’ questions will be answered by this pediatric dental specialist. Space is limited. 508-875-KIDS (5437), WeeCareAtDrMels. com. For Parents What is Deep Touch Protocol/ Brushing? Barrett Family Wellness Center, 107 Otis St.,Northborough. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Many are familiar with the Wilbarger Brushing Program, but are unsure how this brushing protocol affects sensory defensive children. This workshop will help to clarify these questions and explain the benefits of

babies in poverty with one-on-one parenting support and essential baby items during their children’s critical first three years of development. At this special breakfast, a Room to Grow mom will share her story, and guests will be encouraged to pay tribute to the exceptional moms in their lives. Tickets cost $75. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information and to RSVP email melissam@roomtogrow.org or call 617-8594545. What Lives in the Dell? Friends of Mount Auburn, 580 Mount Auburn St., Cambridge. 3:30 p.m. Starting in Story Chapel, Joe Martinez will share video footage of the annual salamander migration, and explain his research studying amphibians and reptiles. Participants will then walk to the Dell to search for evidence of salamanders and toads. $15NM family. 617-5477105, mountauburn.org. Baby Animals Science for Ages 4 – 6. EcoTarium, Worcester. First Thursday of every month. Session one: 10:15-10:45 a.m. Session two: 11-11:30 a.m There are two identical sessions and attendance is on a first-come, first-served basis. A$12, C (2- 18) $8, Under 2 FREE. ecotarium.org.

OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO

PaintBox Theatre Presents Aesop’s Fabulous Fables. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, Amherst. 1 p.m. Join Aesop (Tom McCabe) who, with the help of the PaintBox Theatre crew and the audience, of course, will explore more than a dozen beloved fables.$7pp plus museum admission. Tickets: 413-658-1126, carlemuseum.org. Also May 8. ONGOING Alice in Wonderland. Boston. See May 6 listing for details. ONGOING To Kill a Mockingbird. Boston Children’s Theatre. The Wimberly Theatre Calderwood Pavillion at the Boston Center for the Arts 539 Tremont St., Boston. May 7 at 7:30 p.m.; May 8 at 2 p.m.; May 14 at 2 and 7 p.m.; May 15 at 2 p.m.Features 36 young performers from 29 area communities. $25pp. 617424-6634, x222, bostonchildrenstheatre.org. FREE Cambridge Open Studios. Various locations, Lechmere, Inman and Kendall Squares, Cambridge. Artists throughout Cambridge open their doors to the public, who can discover unique paintings, jewelry, fiber arts, ceramics, film, mixed-media, literary works and more. 617-349-4380; cambridgeartscouncil.org. Also May 8. FREE & ONGOING Cambridge Science Festival. April 30 – May 8. Various locations throughout Cambridge. This nine-day festival celebrates all things science, technology, engineering and math. Enjoy live science presentations, lectures, performances, exhibits, activities for kids and so much more. cambridgesciencefestival.org. For Parents No Child Left Inside. New England Wild Flower Society at Garden in the Woods,180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham. 10 – 11:30 a.m. In this interactive workshop, hear the latest research and see examples that show native plant gardens that work well for children. Case studies illustrate many imaginative concepts to apply at home or school as a parent, grandparent, teacher or volunteer working with children. $21ppNM. newfs.org. Bouquet for Moms Day. Garden in the Woods, 180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham. Bring a bouquet of flowers and receive free admission for one person. All bouquets will be donated to local hospitals, nursing homes and elder housing for moms to enjoy. Take a guided walking tour at 2 p.m., enjoy a scavenger hunt and don’t miss the many beautiful spring ephemerals. Call to confirm: 508-877-7630; newfs.org. BAYSTATEPARENT 17

OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO FREE Lexington’s Fife & Drum Muster. The William Diamond Junior Fife and Drum Corps The Minute Man National Historical Park, 250 North Great Rd., Lincoln. 12 – 5 p.m. Parade and musical performances by 30 fife and drum corps from around the country. Historical music and colonial vendors. 781-862-1907 williamdiamondjrs.org FREE Open Studios. Western Avenue Studios, Lowell. 12 – 5 p.m. On the first Saturday of every month. Over 200 artists such as painters, photographers, sculptors, glass artists, jewelers, mixed media artists, potters and more. See where they work, discuss art and pick up a little something to take home with you. A great place to visit. westernavenuestudios.com.

PaintBox Theatre Presents Aesop’s Fabulous Fables. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, Amherst.See May 7 listing for details. To Kill a Mockingbird. Boston Children’s Theatre, Boston. See May 7 listing for details.

high-technology professionals from around the world who use new technology to advance traditional visual and performing arts disciplines. See visual arts, music, dance and theatrical performances, film and video presentations are more. 617-524-8495, bostoncynerarts.org.

Duckling Parade. Boston Common, Beacon and Park Streets, Boston.10:30 a.m. Led by the Harvard University Band, children and their families retrace the steps of Mr. and Mrs. Mallard and their family of eight ducklings - made famous by Robert McCloskey’s

Lost in Storyland Puppet Show. Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. In this comic romp, classic fairy tales are given new life with a cavalcade of kooky characters. For ages 3 and up. $10 pp. 617-731-6400; puppetshowplace.org.

a-kind, handpainted tea cup planters. Flowers will be ready and on hand to plant. Pre-registration required: modernedgecenterforthearts.com. Happy Mother’s Day! Providence Children’s Museum, Providence, RI. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Free admission all day for moms and grandmoms! Children ages 3 - 11 create colorful fabric art from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Program free with $8.50 admission, under 12 months free. 401-273-5437, childrenmuseum.org. Mother’s Day Event. Mamas n Divas Nail Lounge, 122 Turnpike Rd.,Westborough 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Pamper yourselves at this special Sunday opening with a selection of tea and pastries with your services. Cost of services selected. 508-389-9995, mamasndivas.com.

FREE Crafts. Lakeshore Learning Store, Newton and Saugus. Drop in every Satruday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Ages 3+. lakeshorelearning.com.

Electric Youth. Mechanics Hall, 321 Main St., Worcester. 6 p.m. Franklin School of Performing Arts dance group, Electric Youth, performs their high-energy show celebrating the debut of their CD, All Amped Up. A $25 and $15; St., $20 and $10. 508752-0888; necpaonline.com. photo courtesy of Providence Children’s Museum

FREE Healthy Kids Day. Burbank YMCA, 36 Arthur B. Lord Dr., Reading. 1 – 3 p.m. Bounce house, Radio Disney, poster checks, facepainting, open swim, sample classes for kids and more. 781-944-9622, ymcaboston. org/burbank. FREE For Moms Motherless Daughter’s Brunch. First Congregational Church, 19 Church Rd., Shrewsbury. 10 a.m. A morning of conversation and sharing for women who have lost their mothers. Those who attend are welcome to bring a photo or memento of their mother to share. A light breakfast will be served. This event came about from the book Motherless Daughters by Hope Edeleman. This is the 10th year the event will be held in Shrewsbury. Carol Geary: 508-845-6070. FREE For Parents Help Me Get Ready To Read Workshop. Tatnuck Booksellers, 18 Lyman St., Westboro. 10 a.m. - noon. Susan Marx and Barbara Kasok model reading strategies to use to help young children acquire the early literacy concepts and skills they need to get ready to learn to read; demonstrate parenting strategies to foster children’s feelings of confidence and competence; suggest criteria for choosing good books to read aloud; and recommend age-appropriate books to read aloud to infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. 508-366-4959, readaloudguide.com.

8SUNDAY Happy Mother’s Day! Alice in Wonderland. Boston. See May 6 listing for details.

Happy Birthday Neighbor! Meet Rhode Island Red chickens and chicks at the Providence Children’s Museum’s celebration, May 14. childrenmuseum.org.

classic book, Make Way for Ducklings - and then enjoy entertainment and a dramatic reading of the book. Come dressed as your favorite duck! $25 per family. Those who register before the day of the parade receive a special goodie bag. 508-494-6630; friendsofthepublicgarden.org. FREE Lilac Sunday. Arnold Arboretum, 125 Arborway, Boston. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Bring mom to the Arboretum to take tours of the lilacs, see dance performances and enjoy a picnic and other family activities at this annual Boston tradition. 617-5241718; arboretum.harvard.edu. FREE Boston Cyberarts Festival. Various locations throughout Greater Boston. Showcases artists and

FREE Cambridge Open Studios. See May 7 listing for details. Mother’s Day Brunch at Verrill Farm. 11 Wheeler Rd., Concord. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Treat mom to a farmfresh brunch. After eating, kids can play in fields beside the tents while parents relax near by and finish their meal. This is a multi-generational event - for newborns to grandparents! Live classical guitar by Enrique. A$30, C under 10 $10. 978-369-4494, verrillfarm.com. Mother’s Day Tea and Art Party. Modern Edge Center for the Arts, 853 North Main St., Suite 202, Leominster. 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. After a sit-down tea party, moms and their children will create one-of-

9MONDAY ONGOING Story and Healthy Snack Time. Whole Foods Market , 575 Worcester Rd., Framingham. Every Monday at 10:30 a.m., For children ages 2 - 6. 508-628-9525. FREE For Moms Discussion: Faith and What it Means to You. MetroWest Boston Mothers & More, Whitney Place Assisted Living, 3 Vision Dr., Natick. 7:30-9 p.m. An informal dialogue about faith and meaning in our lives. Non-mobile infants welcome. metrowestmothersandmore.org. Mothers Network Brunch. Autism Resource Center, 71 Sterling St., West Boylston. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Daytime support group. Tag-a-longs welcome. autismresourcecentral.org. ONGOING Adventure Boot Camp. 15 Bellingham Rd., Worcester. 5:30 - 6:30 a.m. or 6 - 7 p.m. Fourweek outdoor fitness program that offers fitness instruction, nutritional counseling and motivational training for beginners to advanced. Fees apply. 508579-6064, AdventureBootCampLLC.com.

10TUESDAY ONGOING Sea Squirts: Programs for Toddlers and Preschoolers. New England Aquarium

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OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO Central Wharf, Boston. 9:30 & 11 a.m. Held on Tuesdays and Fridays. Adults are included in the cost of each child. Call for fees: 617-973-5206, neaq.org.

May 12 – 16. Competition draws dancers from 23 countries and from the USA to perform before acclaimed judges of the ballet world and compete for awards and other prizes. $20 in advance; $23 at the door. 877-238 5596, Bostonbibc.org.

Sitter Mixer. Imajine That, Lawrence. 7 – 9 p.m. Part cocktail party, party speed-dating, part job fair and all fun! Meet and interview multiple qualified sitters from your local area and walk away with a “Sitter Match Book.� Raffles, shopping, swag bags with freebies, coupons and samples. $39 moms, $5 sitters. Spaces are limited. Pre-register: sittermixer.com.

FREE Visual Screening for ages 2 1/2-5. First Connections, 111 Old Rd. to 9 Acre Corner, Concord. 9 – 11:30 a.m. Dr. Lorraine Labiento Smith will provide free vision screenings to children not yet in Kindergarten who were not born prematurely and have not been diagnosed with a developmental delay. 978-287-0221 for an appointment, firstconnections.org.

Hot Potatoes. Drumlin Farm, 208 South Great Rd., Lincoln. Read a story about potatoes and then head into the garden to prepare the soil and plant potatoes. $12; registration required. 781-259-2206; massaudubon.org/drumlin.

ONGOING Where in the Wild? Providence Children’s Museum. Providence, RI. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Children get out and play, climb, crawl and discover in the Museum’s Children’s Garden and try their hands at fun-filled outdoor challenges each Tuesday and Thursday in May. Program free with $8.50 admission; under 12 months free. 401-273-5437, childrenmuseum.org.

FREE New Moms Groups. Mothers and Company, West Boylston. Meets on Tuesdays, 12:15 1:45 p.m., Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. and Fridays, 12 – 1:30 p.m. All moms and babies welcome. $5pp NM. Online RSVPs appreciated. mothersandcompany.com.

11WEDNESDAY Princess Tea Party. The Discovery Stop, 44 Nashua Rd., Londonderry Commons Plaza, Londonderry, NH.Stop in any time between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. for a royal storytime and “tea� party. Come dressed in your prettiest gown, if you wish! A$1, C$7.99. 603-421-2790, thediscoverystop.com. FREE New Momma Again Playgroup. Mothers and Company, Route 140, West Boylston. Meets the second Wednesday of the month, 1 - 2:30 p.m. This is a free group for moms who have an infant and an older child (or more). Bring them both! Online RSVPs greatly appreciated: mothersandcompany.com. FREE Working Moms Group. Mothers and Company, Route 140, West Boylston. Meets the second Wednesday of every month, 5:30 – 7 p.m. Whether you work full-time or part-time, you are welcome to come. Come on time or come when you can. Bring your baby with you, or not. Babies from newborn to crawling welcome. This is a drop-in group but RSVPS appreciated: mothersandcompany.com.

12THURSDAY ONGOING Boston International Ballet Competition. 180 Berkeley St., Boston. 3 p.m.

Acrobats of the sky return to the Stone Zoo! Catch a Birds of Prey show now until Sept. 5. stonezoo.org. Donations accepted. krodriguez101@ yahoo.com Berkshire Theatre Festival presents History’s Mysteries Revealed! The Eric Carle Picture Book Art Museum, Amherst. May 14 - 15,1 and 3 p.m. A thrilling play filled with history, geography, folklore, mythology and most of all an excess of theatrical fun. $6.50pp plus museum admission. 413-658-1100, carlemuseum.org.

FREE Multiple Joys and Challenges. Mothers and Company, Route 140, West Boylston. Meets on the the second Thursday of each month, 2 – 3:30 p.m. Enjoy a warm drink and a monthly chat about your joys and challenges with parents who understand (dads welcome, too!). Babies and toddlers from birth to walking welcome. Free but online RSVPs are greatly appreciated: mothersandcompany.com

13FRIDAY FREE Second Fridays. MIT Museum, 265 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge. 5 – 8 p.m. Mingle with friends in the Museum’s unique galleries with displays of holograms, kinetic sculptures, historic robots and some of the latest research coming out of MIT during this monthly free evening. web.mit.edu/ museum/ FREE 21st Annual Voices & Visions Creative Writing & Art Exhibition. The Home for Little Wanderers, Knight Children’s Center, 161 South Huntington Ave., Jamaica Plain. 9 a.m. - 3 p .m. Open to the public and features artwork from children in The Home for Little Wanderers’ many programs. Voices & Visions is an innovative year-long art project, which teaches positive ways of self-expression and encourages artistic development in children with emotional and behavioral challenges. *Confirm day and time: 617-264-5345, thehome.org/vv11. Coastal Mountain Railroad Model Train Group. First UU Church of Milford, 23 Pine St., Milford. 5p.m. Friday to 5 p.m Saturday. In conjunction with the Milford Relay for Life the

photo courtesy of the Stone Zoo

model train group will set up and run trains for 24-hours. All proceeds to benefit the Relay for Life. Donations for admission accepted. $20 donation buys a turn at running a train the length of the layout. 774-573-0652, milford-ma.patch.com/ events/relay-for-life-train-show FREE Nursing Beyond the First Year. Mothers and Company, West Boylston. 1 – 2 :30 p.m. Meets the second Friday of each month. A monthly discussion group/playgroup for those who are continuing to breastfeed children over one year old or those who are considering it and curious to meet moms who are still enjoying their nursing relationship. RSVPs welcome. Drop-ins welcome too. mothersandcompany.com.

14SATURDAY Spring Yard Sale. The Auburn Public Library, Auburn. 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. $10 fee for any sellers.

Lindiana’s School of Dance

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Family Concert. Symphony Hall, 301 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. 8 p.m. Keith Lockhart leads America’s Orchestra and special guest Byron Stripling in a concert of light classical, Broadway, jazz, and patriotic compositions suitable for the entire family. $21-$121. 617-266-1200, bostonpops.org. Japanese Storytelling. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. 11 a.m., 12 and 1 p.m. This month’s story is about kittens and their brave “Mother Cat.� The story is followed by an activity to celebrate Mother’s Day. Free with museum admission. 617-426-6500; bostonchildrensmuseum.org. FREE Crimson Sailing Academy Open House – Charles River. Crimson Sailing Academy, 45 Memorial Dr., Cambridge. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Free sailboat rides! Parents and camper (kids aged 10-16) can come meet the instructors, see the facilities, and

Wayside Summer Membership

6 Week Summer Dance Intensive June 20th- July 29th Offering classes in: s (IP (OP s *AZZ s "ALLET s 0OINTE s 4INY 4OES !GES s 3MALL 3TEPS !GES

To Kill a Mockingbird. Boston Children’s Theatre, Boston. See May 7 listing for details.

WAYSIDE RACQUET & SWIM CLUB 80 Broadmeadow St. Marlborough, MA 508-481-1797 www.wayside.net

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OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO kids can go for a short sail with instructors. 857-2454641, crimsonsailingacademy.com/camp.html.

Challenge making this a fun family event. Lots of vendors and food too! firefighterchallenge.com, 617413-7742. Also May 15.

4 Uxbridge Rd., Sutton. 10:30 a.m. Children up to age 23 months and their parents are invited to a morning of music with Apple Tree Arts, refreshments and a teddy bear craft. Please pre-register. 508-865-8752,suttonpubliclibrary.org.

honor of the smallest state! Ages 5 – 11. Program free with $8.50 admission; under 12 months free; free admission all day for moms and grandmoms. 401-273-5437,childrenmuseum.org.

Vanessa Trien and the Jumping Monkeys. Amazing Things Arts Center, 160 Hollis St., Framingham. 3 p .m. Boston-based children’s performer, Vanessa Trien, and her lively band play danceable music for families . $10. 508-405-ARTS; amazingthings.org.

15SUNDAY

FREE 5K Run/Walk and Kids’ Fun Run. Lexington Montessori School, 130 Pleasant St., Lexington. Run/ Walk at 10:30 a.m. (Kids’ Fun Run, 9:30 a.m.). A safe, fun, family-oriented event with prizes, music, food. $20, Fun Run FREE. 617-823-6787. Register: lexmontessori.org/home. Firefighter Combat Challenge & Kids Challenge. Solomon Pond Mall, Marlbrough. The Marlborough Fire Fighters are hosting a two-day, North East Regional Firefighters Combat Challenge. Firefighters from 850 Fire Houses across MA, NH, VT, RI and CT have been invited to compete in this nationally recognized sporting event. In addition to the Firefighter competition there will be a Kid’s

Friendship, laughter and conďŹ dence abound when we play together! At Gymboree Play & Learn classes, songs, stories and play become the basis for a friendship that will last a lifetime.

Playtime creates meaningful memories for you and your child.

Lexington’s May Festival is a month-long celebration of arts, culture, recreation and business. Schedule of events: tourlexington.us. FREE & ONGOING Crafts. Lakeshore Learning Store, Newton and Saugus. Drop in every Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Ages 3+. lakeshorelearning.com. Happy Birthday, Rhode Island! Providence Children’s Museum, Providence, RI. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Celebrate Rhode Island’s 221st birthday month with a day of festive fun. Meet Rhode Island Red chickens and chicks from Casey Farm and learn about the life cycle of these feathered friends. Make a colorful pennant and raise a cup of coffee milk in

Play helps your child develop a strong body and happy mind.

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Visit our UPDATED Westboro location 76 Otis Street (Rt 9 Eastbound), Westboro 508-366-1495

Battle and Can Drive. Stone Zoo, 149 Pond St., Stoneham. 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. in the Stone Zoo parking lot. Held the second Saturday of each month, April through October. All of the proceeds from this annual fundraiser benefit conservation efforts supported by Zoo New England, the nonprofit organization that manages Stone Zoo and Franklin Park Zoo. stonezoo.org. Also June 11, July 9, August 13, Sept. 10 and Oct. 8. FREE Teddy Bear Brunch. Sutton Public Library,

To Kill a Mockingbird. Boston Children’s Theatre, Boston. See May 7 listing for details. Celebrate Asia. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Explore Asia and Pacific Islander cultures. Free with museum admission. 617-426-6500; bostonchildrensmuseum.org. FREE K’tonton Program. Temple Sinai, 50 Sewall Ave., Brookline. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Children ages 3-4 learn about the Jewish holidays through arts and crafts, song, stories and games. FREE; registration encouraged. 617-277-5888; sinaibrookline.org. Family Nature Walk. Friends of Mount Auburn, 580 Mount Auburn St., Cambridge. 10 a.m. Join Jake Barnett for an exciting hands-on exploration of Mount Auburn’s natural areas. Discover that even if you are only knee-high to a grasshopper, there is a fascinating and easily accessible world of wonder right under your toes. $15NM. mountauburn.org.

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20 MAY2011

courtesy of Lexington Chamber of Commerce

ONGOING Renaissance Faire. Guiford Fairgrounds, Lovers Lane, Gilford, CT. Every weekend through May 22 and on Friday, May 6. Children transform into fair maidens, merry men, knights and more this spring as they enter King Richard the Lionheart’s realm for a day of fun and games: mysterious magicians, amusing minstrels, comedic tales, jousting knights, craft demonstrations, birds of prey, pony rides, petting zoo, kid friendly gaming glen, colorful storytelling, traditional dances and a medieval marketplace, among other entertainment for the entire family. A$15, Y (5-12) $8, C under 5 free (bring a canned good for a discount). ctfaire.com.

Special Storytime. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art Amherst. 2 p.m. Join awardwinning artist Stephen Savage as he shares his newest book, Where’s Walrus?, a delightfully graphic romp through the city with a runaway walrus. Book signing to follow. Free with admission. 413-658-1100,carlemuseum.org.

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Farmstead & Old House Tour. Appleton Farms, Waldingfield Rd., Route 1A, Ipswich. 3 – 5 p.m. Visit the oldest continuously operating farm in the country. On this guided, leisurely walk, you will learn about some of the Appleton family’s stories as you wander the farmstead, visit the dairy during milking time and tour the newly remodeled Old House (now the farm’s visitor center). $5 pp. 978-356-5728 x 15 or email afeducator@ttor.org Also June 19th. Firefighter Combat Challenge & Kids Challenge. Solomon Pond Mall, Marlbrough. See May 14 listing for details. FREE For parents Ages and Stages of Parenting. Parenting Through A Jewish Lens 1664 Central Ave., Needham. 10:30- 11:30 a.m. What does Jewish wisdom have to teach us about the different stages of parenthood – morphing from the children of our own parents to the parents of our children? What are hopes for our children and what are aspirations for ourselves as parents? What inspires us and what informs our choices? 617-559-8733, hebrewcollege. edu/parenting. FREE Open Sensory Gym. The Barrett Family Wellness Center, The Autism Resource Center, and The Charles River Autism Support Center have teamed to offer free open sensory gym time. Barrett Family Wellness Center, 107 Otis St., Northborough. 12 - 4 p.m. Siblings under age 14 are welcome. Parents are asked to stay to provide more supervision. Registration is required and will be signed up on a first come first serve basis. Please contact Sue Loring, Director of the Autism Resource Center at sloring@hmea.org or 508-835-4278. autismresourcecentral.org. Angiosarcoma Awareness 5K Race and Walk. Oxford High School, 495 Main St., Oxford. 9 a.m. $25 to register, includes T-shirt. 508-335-3616, angiosarcomaawareness.org.

ONGOING Arctic Adventure. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Go deep inside the Arctic Circle to explore the frozen North -- the closest that most of us will ever get to this fascinating and fragile region. Discover what’s under the tip of an iceberg. Compare your weight to a polar bear. Check out real bear skulls and whale artifacts, hear from polar researchers and test your own Arctic IQ. Bear facts, whale tales... can it get any cooler? Admission applies. 508-929-2700, ecotarium.org.

16MONDAY ONGOING Story and Healthy Snack Time. Whole Foods Market , 575 Worcester Rd., Framingham. Every Monday at 10:30 a.m., For children ages 2 - 6. 508-628-9525. ONGOING Battle Road Walk. Minute Man National Park Visitor Center, Route 2A (Lincoln/Lexington Town Line), Lexington. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. until Oct. 30. Explore the historic “Battle Road� which travels part of the route which Paul Revere and Samuel Prescott rode to warn the Colonists of the coming of British troops. The route passes battle fields, wetlands, colonial homes and the recently restored Hartwell Tavern. There is a choice of a 6 or 10 km (3.7- 6.2 mile) trail. The walk route is rated easy suitable for strollers but not for wheelchairs. 781-402-0058, ava.org/clubs/walknmass.

17TUESDAY Greater Worcester Mothers of Twins Meeting. Location TBD. Meets on the third Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. First meeting and expectant mothers free. 508-347-5606 or worcester-motc.com. ONGOING Turtle Travels. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Exhibit ends June 6. 10 a.m. - 5

Now accepting applications for the 2011-2012 school year. h7HERE BRIGHT MINDS COME together!â€? Pre-Kindergarten through Grade Six The Brighton School is a non-proďŹ t, private, independent elementary school dedicated to providing a quality education that addresses the individual needs of students.

p.m. Walk onto a life-sized board game, play interactive games, answer questions, see artifacts and watch video to discover what it’s like to be a turtle traveling through local habitats. The lively setting will have you advancing from one station to the next as you crawl on a turtle bridge, try on a turtle shell, help turtles to safety and follow a sea turtle as it swims. Museum admission applies. 508-929-2700, ecotarium.org.

18WEDNESDAY Autism 101: What It is and What is it Not. Family Support Center, 1460 John Fitch Highway, Fitchburg. 7 – 9 p.m. autismresourcecentral.org. FREE Pregnancy Chat. Mothers and Company, Route 140, West Boylston. 7 p.m. Join other moms-to-be (birth partners are also welcome) to chat about everything pregnancy-related, from silly to serious, nothing is off-limits to discuss. $10 per expectant mother. mothersandcompany.com. Also June 13 at 7 p.m.

19THURSDAY FOR MOMS Women’s Networking. WCSWANS: Women’s Club SWANS Waterstreet Cafe, 36 Waterstreet, Fall River. 6 – 9 p.m. Open to all women interested in an evening of fun and inspiration and connecting with other women. Dinner and an inspiring speaker, Patricia Raskin, of Positive Living. Particia brings with her a lifetime of experience as an award-winning media producer who is a talk-show host, media coach, speaker and author.$30NM. 401-694-1284, wcswans.com. ONGOING Storytime Ages 2 – 6. Goodnow Library, Sudbury. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. Just drop in every Thursday, year-round. library.sudbury.ma.us.

20FRIDAY FREE MOMS Club of Hubbardston Area Location TBA, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Email Joanne at momsclubofhubbardston@yahoo.com for details. MOMS Club of Hubbardston Area is a chapter of the International MOMS Club, a support group for mothers, serving the towns of Barre, Hubbardston, Princeton and Templeton. Meets every 3rd Friday of the month. 508-667-8102, momsofhubb.freehostia.com. Play Factory: The Prince and the Pauper. Watertown Children’s Theatre, Arsenal Center for the Arts, 321 Arsenal St., Watertown. May 20, 7 p.m.; May 21 7 p.m.; May 22 1 p.m. Mark Twain’s powerful message comes to life as WCT’s actors, Grades 3 -5, perform his funny tale about walking in someone else’s shoes. $10 general admission. 617-926-2787, watertownchildrenstheatre.org.

21SATURDAY FREE & ONGOING Crafts. Lakeshore Learning Store, Newton and Saugus. Drop in every Satruday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Ages 3+. lakeshorelearning.com. Hoopla! Providence Children’s Museum, Providence, RI. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Kids invent their own fun and games with hoops of all sizes and colors in The Children’s Garden. Ages 3 – 11. Program free with $8.50 admission; under 12 months free. 401-273-5437, childrenmuseum.org. Also Sun.,May 22. Play Factory: The Prince and the Pauper. Watertown Children’s Theatre, Watertown. See May 20 listing for details.

DIG Into your CREATIVITY this SUMMER at Claytime Visit claytimestudio.com and check out our summer programs: Week-long theme sessions for ages 8 yrs & up Day sessions for 4-7 yrs and 8 & up

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OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO FREE Solo Moms Teatime. Mothers and Company, Route 140, West Boylston. Meets the third Saturday of each month at 3 p.m. For single moms, moms who are parenting entirely or mostly on their own for one reason or another, moms whose partners are living far away (i.e. military service), moms whose children do not know their fathers and moms who chose to have a baby without a partner. mothersandcompany.com.

22SUNDAY A Walk Home: 2nd Annual Walk for Adoption. The Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange. Jordan’s Furniture,450 Revolutionary Dr., East Taunton. 9 a.m. - Noon. Family-friendly 5K (or shorter)with fun, games, refreshments. Age 13+ $15, C 12 and under Free. firstgiving.com/mare. 617-54-ADOPT

25WEDNESDAY

27FRIDAY

3 – 11. Program free with $8.50 admission; under 12 months free. 401-273-5437, childrenmuseum.org. Also May 29th.

Fairies in the Garden. New England Wild Flower Society, Garden in the Woods, 180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham. 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. Where do tiny woodland fairies live in our Gardens? Maybe under the lady’s-slipper orchids? Perhaps near the fairybell wildflowers? Listen to a story about woodland fairies, take a walk to look at wildflowers with a magical fairy connection, and build a fairy house for the Garden and one to take home. For Children in Grades K-2. $16ppNM. 508877-7630 x 3303, newenglandwild.org.

MFA Toddler Playdate. Museum of Fine Arts, Avenue of the Arts, 465 Huntington Ave., Boston. 10:30 a.m. Bring your toddler or preschooler for a drop-in, read-aloud story times, followed by a short tour of specially selected art that both kids and adults enjoy. adults, free with museum admission; kids, free. 617-369-3300; mfa.org.

Wool Day. Old Sturbridge Village, Sturbridge. 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Old Sturbridge Village sheep get their annual “hair cuts” and historians demonstrate how wool is processed: from shearing, scouring, and carding to dyeing, spinning, and weaving (in other words, from sheep to shirt - or chemise). Try your hand and test your history IQ at our textile exhibit. Memorial Day is also the official kick-off to summer activities with period games, 1830s base ball, French & English tug-of-war contests and our weekend to roll out the Old Sturbridge Village stagecoach and relaunch the boat ride on the Quinebaug River. A$20, Sr (65+) $18, C (3-17) $7, Under 3 Free. 508-347-3362, osv.org.

ONGOING Preschool and Toddler Wednesdays. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way Worcester. Enjoy storytime, craft activities, live animals and more--all developed especially for little ones ages 3 and under. New themes every

FREE Parent Support Group in Millbury. Parent/ Professional Advocacy League (PPAL). Millbury Public Library, 128 Elm St., Millbury. 10:30 a.m.- 12. This is a free and confidential Parent Support Group, where you can meet other parents and caregivers that understand the struggles and victories of raising challenging kids who may have emotional, behavioral or mental health needs. 508-767-9725, ppal.net.

Hoopla! Providence Children’s Museum, Providence, RI. See May 21 listing for details.

Annual Letter Writing Day. Spellman Museum of Stamps & Postal History Regis College, 235 Wellesley St., Weston. 1 – 4 p.m. Children will learn how to properly address an envelope and postcard and will create their own envelopes from colorful paper to mail their letters to friends - the Museum pays the postage. A calligrapher will demonstrate writing techniques and two authors will discuss their new book about stories from letter carriers. Adults are invited to share their favorite stories about letters they have received. On exhibit are letters from the 19th century. Also stamp games and puzzles. A$8, Sr. $5, C FREE under age 16. 781768-8367, spellman.org.

courtesty of whisker walk

Play Factory: The Prince and the Pauper. Watertown Children’s Theatre, Watertown. See May 20 listing for details.

You’ll find FREE furry fun at the 4th Annual Whisker Walk, Lancaster Fairgrounds, Sun., June 5th. Bring your pooch! whiskerwalk.org.

Jump In! Providence Children’s Museum, Providence, RI. See May 28th listing for details.

ONGOING Story and Healthy Snack Time. Whole Foods Market , 575 Worcester Rd., Framingham. Every Monday at 10:30 a.m., For children ages 2 - 6. 508-628-9525.

For Parents Raising Sons. First Connections, Sargent Memorial Library, 427 Mass. Avenue, Boxboro. 7 – 8:30 p.m. Betsy Wisch, LMHC, presents information to help parents navigate the world of boys age 0-8, and give practical tips on communicating with, emotionally supporting and being a role model for sons. $10 suggested donation. 978-287-0221 to register, firstconnections.org. Bubble-Licious. Drumlin Farm, 208 South Great Rd., Lincoln. 4 – 5:30 p.m. Experiment with making square, triangular or multi-sided bubbles. Then head out to the fields to see if the spittlebugs have started blowing their camouflage bubbles. $12; registration required. For children ages 6 -9 . 781-259-2206; massaudubon.org/drumlin. 22 MAY2011

ONGOING Historical Route Walk. Start at Rite Aid Pharmacy, 71 Lowell Rd., Concord. 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Mon. - Sat., and Sun., 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Walkers are invited to explore the many historic sites of Concord until Dec. A walk route of either 5 or 10 km (3.1-6.2 mile) is available. Both routes are rated reasonably easy but are not suitable for strollers or wheel chairs due to some steep paths. 978-369-5695. ava.org/ clubs/walknmass.

29SUNDAY

23MONDAY

ONGOING Wizard of Oz Exhibit Opening. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Follow the yellow brick road to the Boston Children’s Museum for a multi-sensory, cross-discipline exploration of the Land of Oz, including Munchkinland, The Crossroads, the Witch’s Castle and The Emerald City. Open through Sept. 10. Free with museum admission. 617-426-6500; bostonchildrensmuseum.org.

ONGOING Tree Canopy Walkway Now Open! EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Held on Saturdays from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. and 12:30 – 4 p.m. Now open on weekends May 28 through June 26. Kids and adults, come experience what it’s like to walk at the tops of the trees-- or be a treetop scientist! Explore firsthand what’s living up there and investigate the different kinds of trees that make up EcoTarium’s forest. End your adventure by zipping to the forest floor in our comfy (and secure) chair harness. Timed tickets are sold for each 1/2 hr between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Opens for daily access on June 28. $10pp plus museum admission. 508-9292700, ecotarium.org.

30MONDAY

week! Story and animal encounters happen at 10:30, 11 and 11:30, with an craft activity ongoing. Free with museum admission: 508-9292700, ecotarium.org.

26THURSDAY FREE for Parents Food and Sustainability. Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston. 7 p.m. While eating is a necessity, it is not a license to be reckless in our consumption. What happens when we use up all of the world’s resources? Share the discussion as we imagine what a healthy food system for the planet would look like. How do we feed a growing population without exhausting the planet? 617-7232500; mos.org.

28SATURDAY The Poetry and Songs of Shel Silverstein. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst. 1 and 3 p.m. A live performance of some of Shel Silverstein’s best known and beloved poems and songs. Free with museum admission. 413-658-1100, carlemuseum.org. FREE & ONGOING Crafts. Lakeshore Learning Store, Newton and Saugus. Drop in every Satruday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Ages 3+. lakeshorelearning.com. Jump In! Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South St., Providence, RI. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Kids jump with long ropes, short ropes, flat ropes, round ropes and try out new tricks in The Children’s Garden. Ages

ONGOING Historical Route Walk. Start at Rite Aid Pharmacy, 71 Lowell Rd., Concord. 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Mon. - Sat., and Sun., 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Walkers are invited to explore the many historic sites of Concord until Dec. A walk route of either 5 or 10 km (3.1-6.2 mile) is available. Both routes are rated reasonably easy but are not suitable for strollers or wheel chairs due to some steep paths. 978-369-5695. ava.org/ clubs/walknmass. Memorial Day Weekend. Garden in the Woods, 180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Guided tours at 10 a.m. and scavenger hunt with kids. Look for lady slippers, which are normally in bloom over Memorial Day weekend. Free with garden admission. 508-877-7630, newfs.org. FREE Military Service Appreciation Weekend. Buttonwood Park Zoo, 425 Hawthorn St., New Bedford. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. All active duty, retired and reserved military personnel and their dependents who show proof of service receive free admission to the zoo. 508-991-6178; bpzoo.org. Handwriting: More than Pencil and Paper. Barrett Family Wellness Center, 107 Otis St., Northborough. 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Parent/Educator

SPLASH

photo courtesy of Friends of the Public Garden

into Spring with a Day Trip to CoCo Key Water Resort!

The Boston Common celebrates Boston Making History, Mon., June 6, 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Kids can try Native American dancing, play 18th century games and more. FREE. friendsofthepublicgarden.org.

Workshop: Many people have the misconception that good penmanship comes only from sitting at a desk practicing. Parents and educator can join a discussion on the building blocks to good handwriting which includes the importance of developed gross and fine motor control, upper body strength, and position in space awareness. Registration is required. $25pp. 508-898-2688, barrettfamilywellness.com.

ONGOING Ride the Stagecoach at Old Sturbridge Village. Opens Memorial Day weekend and runs through Thanksgiving. Experience luxury travel 1830s style by riding in a museum-quality reproduction of actual stagecoaches that traveled from Boston to Hartford in the early 1800s by the entrance to Old Sturbridge Village. $5 with museum admission. 800-733-1830, osv.org.

Submit an Event For best results, fill out our form at

baystateparent.com Our deadline for JUNE is

Thursday, May 5.

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Our online catering menu makes it that simple. Share the same hand-crafted, delicious food you’ve come to enjoy in our bakery-cafes at your next meeting or event.

Š2011 Panera Bread. All Rights Reserved.

24 MAY2011

May is National Foster Care Month

To all the foster parents who make every day about the children - this month is for you! Heartfelt thanks to all our foster families!

Foster Parents Wanted Seeking families throughout central Mass who are interested in improving a child's life

Call now to learn about our $1000 sign-on bonus!

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Look What We Found At Ice Cream Cakes!

Happy 15th Birthday baystateparent! Thank you iParty for making it easier than ever to celebrate by selling in-store Turkey Hill ice cream cakes. The bsp staff loved the fun variety of candles, decorations and cake stands. baystateparent wants to know:

What’s your great iParty find? Every month, iParty will award a $75 iParty gift certificate to a baystateparent reader for sharing an unexpected find at our favorite party supply store. Enter at baystateparent.com (Click contest).

Join the Birthday Club! Are you part of the iParty Birthday Club? Well, what are you waiting for?! Sign up today and start receiving iParty exclusive in-store savings and discounts, contest information, FUN party and project ideas along with so much more! Just go to www.iparty.com, complete the form and join the FUN today! BAYSTATEPARENT 25

HAPPYMOTHER’SDAY

Massachusetts Mamapreneurs Mama reneurs photos and text by Stephanie Piscitelli of Bellini Portraits

Moms are amazing. Every one of us in our own way: the single mom, the stay-at-home mom, the mom of multiples, etc. In this spirit, baystateparent fell in love with photographer Stephanie Piscitelli’s blog and the fabulous women she features on “Mamapreneur Monday,” women who “balance” motherhood while pursuing their creative interests as small business owners. Meet six styl-

ish and enterprising local moms here including the very talented Mrs. Piscitelli herself. Happy Mother’s Day to all of us managing the business of motherhood inside and outside of our homes.

Love, bsp

Stephanie Piscitelli, South Shore, Bellini Portraits For the past four years, Stephanie has balanced motherhood while working as a full-time photographer (her son Grayson was about 7 months old when Stephanie started Bellini Portraits). Today, Stephanie is the mother of two beautiful boys, Grayson, 4 ½, and Madden, 16 months. How I came up with my business name: I wanted something different and memorable that connoted playfulness, children and beauty. I chose ‘Bellini’ because it means ‘little beautiful one’ and felt it would be perfect, as I would be focusing mainly on babies and children. What makes my photography unique: My work is recognizable as ‘light and airy’ not only in the way I shoot – usually backlit and sun soaked – but with the way I process my images. Additionally, I have been collecting antique and vintage props for years and I love incorporating those into my shoots. Not only are they visually beautiful, they help tell a story and keep the kids interactive and interested during our sessions. The hardest part and some of my struggles starting 26 MAY2011

my own business: Definitely finding the balance with a job that I love so much and pour my heart into day to day with being ever present in my family life for my young children and husband. Luckily I have the help of our wonderful sitter four days a week plus the ongoing support from my amazing husband who is there for me, whatever I need, whenever I need it. Period. The creative ways I juggle being a woman, a mother, a business owner and a wife: Keep telling myself, ‘I am woman, hear me roar!’ No, seriously, you really need to find time for yourself as hard as it may be. I (my needs) always come last. I think that’s true for every woman/wife/mother out there. I’ve only come to the realization recently that I know that I need to put my needs first from time to time. For instance, not making excuses about getting to the gym at least a few times a week. There will always be something to do: grocery shopping, laundry, the endless things I can be doing daily as a small business owner. But carving out that 90 minutes for myself makes me feel so much better; it clears my head and I feel better emotionally and physically.

STEPHANIE: JUST FOR FUN Favorite meal: I love Italian food. Ravioli is my fav! Has to be cheese. I’m a purist when it comes to ravioli! Favorite restaurant: Sorrellina in Boston, Al Forno in Providence Favorite piece of clothing or accessory: My True Religion jeans. I actually like the way my butt looks in them. Also, I love my diamond studs. I wear them every day. Favorite childhood memories: Still believing in Santa. Being together as a family before my parents divorced. My ideal day: To sleep until at least 8 a.m., a massage, mani/pedi, then on a boat soaking up the sun, listening to great music, having cocktails and laughs, ending with eating a fabulous dinner outside watching the sunset. Visit: bellinipics.com and bellinipics.com/blog

HAPPYMOTHER’SDAY

Julie Richard, North Shore Shelter (Interior Design) Julie obtained her master’s degree in interior design in 2004 and worked for a number of elite firms in Boston before branching out on her own four years ago. She created Shelter, a full-service interior design firm specializing in residential interiors when she was pregnant with her first child. Currently Julie has a son, 3-year-old Colby, and a daughter, 1-year-old Emerson. What makes your business so unique? ...I usually design custom pieces for every project. I am in the process of creating a furniture line of upholstered pieces. When I cannot find the perfect piece for a job, I just design it! I really want my clients’ homes and projects to feel personal and unique. I try to stay away from anything that looks contrived, overdone or predictable.

What is the hardest part or have been some of your struggles starting your own business? Making time for everything!! I would love to fit more design-related travel into my schedule. Sifting through

all the paperwork and accounting is extremely time consuming. I could spend half my week on those tasks, but I would much rather be designing, sketching and finding new product sources.

What are some of the creative ways you have found to juggle being a woman, a mother and a business owner? Most days are very busy. I try to keep the kids and myself on track with a routine, but I am also open to deviating from our daily routine. Children are bright little people and can sense when you are stressed out. I try to keep them engaged with creative play. We draw, dance, sing, play outdoors etc. I also need downtime, so I make time for myself. I exercise and meet friends for a glass of wine. A happy mother makes for a better mother and a more efficient business owner. Writing my blog is time consuming but it is also an escape. I love to read other design blogs. They are very inspiring.

Ideal Day: A warm sunny, summer day that begins with a workout, followed by a day at the beach with my children and a night sipping cocktails, eating dinner and listening to music outdoors underneath strings of party lights with friends and family Visit: shelterinteriordesign.blogspot.com and shelterinteriordesign.com.

JULIE: JUST FOR FUN Favorite piece of clothing or accessory: Vintage, chunky jewelry and jeans Favorite vacation spot: Any place in Europe: Spain, France, Italy. I’m drawn to the cafes, food, people, fashion, history and architecture. I’m overdue for a trip. BAYSTATEPARENT 27

HAPPYMOTHER’SDAY

Kiki Fluhr, Quincy The Measure and All the Numbers For the past 2 ½ years, Kiki has run her own children’s clothing design business, The Measure and All the Numbers. Kiki is the new mom of 9-month-old boy/girl twins, Mairwen Athena (Mae) and Will Harrison. What makes your business so unique? I was really sick for a long while and wasn’t able to work outside the home for over a year when it was at its worst. I sewed because I loved to sew, and it gave me something to feel accomplished about, something I could look at and say, ‘I made this today’ instead of feeling completely useless. I bought some vintage patterns off Ebay, one of which was a little girl’s pinafore that reminded me of things my mom made for me. After making a few and substantially changing the pattern, I thought this might be something other people might be interested in, and I opened a shop on Etsy. Almost 1500 sales later, the rest is history! How did you come up with the names? All the Numbers was my first shop. The name came from something my mom said to me every night when she was tucking me in. She would say, ‘I love you ALL the numbers!’ meaning, I love you SO much! I always loved that saying, and when my shop became about designing for little ones, it just seemed natural to use that idiom. At the top of my shop I have written the definition: All.the.num.bers – (adv.) Definition: The measure of how much I love you. I opened The Measure when I started to branch out and sell my pieces wholesale, and ‘The Measure’ is taken from that definition. I wanted something separate but related.

What makes your product/business unique? I’ve never been a fan of cutesy clothing for children. A pint-size sufferer forced to wear Polly Flinders dresses myself, I will always go for simple instead of ruffles, bows and smocking. Not that there isn’t a place for those things, but I find so many baby things to be completely overwrought, and I always run in the other direction. I try to create styles that will appeal to mom as well as child – nothing wrong with a bit of sophistication for the little ones. I also try and incorporate eco-friendly practices. I make dresses out of upcycled Oxford cloth shirts. (I also accept them in trade!) And I also use vintage fabric and vintage homegoods in designs. My latest line has a lot of crochet detail – inspired by a box of vintage cotton doilies I came across. In using details such as these, I think a feeling of nostalgia can be expressed without looking dated, when they’re paired with modern silhouettes. What is the hardest part or have been some of your struggles starting your own business? I do not have a lot of business acumen. The logistics of marketing, bookkeeping and record keeping are a real struggle for me. What are some creative ways to juggle being a woman, a mother, a business owner and a wife? I am struggling with this because the addition of mother to the list has really changed everything. I have an assistant Sioux that I absolutely could not live without! She does a lot more now than before the babies arrived. Truth be told, I will take any advice anyone has to give me on this front!

Visit: themeasuredesigns.com and allthenumbers.etsy.com

KIKI: JUST FOR FUN Favorite meal: Give me a burger and a Guinness and I’m a happy camper. Favorite restaurant: Really anywhere said burger and Guinness can be obtained….I’m recently fond of the Met Bar. And Fat Cat in Quincy Center is pretty phenomenal. 28 MAY2011

Favorite piece of clothing or accessory: My Frye boots. I don’t fit the normal shoe-aholic stereotype – I’m fiercely loyal to my one and onlys. On any given day, what makes you smile? When my babies wake up and see me for the first time in the morning, they get this huge smile on their face, and a look like, ‘Oh THERE you are!! I missed you and now everything is okay.’ And it melts my heart. Every. Single. Time. I am blessed beyond measure….

HAPPYMOTHER’SDAY

Alexandra Morrill, Sherborn Laughing Giraffe Books Alexandra Morrill launched her Web site, offering high-quality, award-winning book collections for children from birth to age 8, in July 2010 when her two daughters were age 2 and 8 months. After having her daughters, Alexandra, who has a background in education, wanted to find a way to help encourage young readers while keeping a flexible schedule that allows her to be with her kids as much as possible (today, they are ages 3 and 18 months).

Bundles and Book of the Month collections built around a specific theme, gender or age and contains a well researched collection of kid favoritesboth classics and newer offerings. In addition, unlike anything else on the market, each collection comes with a search-and-find game related to the book bundle or book of the month theme, which can be redeemed for a prize, and arrives beautifully gift wrapped.

How did you come up with the name? I was looking for a name that would evoke whimsy and the magic of childhood. The fact that my daughters love giraffes and that they are scattered throughout the house might have helped point me in that direction‌.

What is the hardest part of starting your own business? As a stay-at-home mother for two young children, the running of Laughing Giraffe Books is relegated primarily to naptime (which is rapidly disappearing) and after bedtime. In addition, my husband purchased a Silk Screening and Embroidery company in January of 2010 adding one more element to our wonderfully hectic lives. However, the feedback we have received from happy parents and customers makes it all worthwhile! Knowing that I am helping to encourage the next generation of readers is a great feeling.

Please explain a little bit about your business and how you developed the concept behind it: My background is in education and as a reading specialist and special education teacher, my favorite moments were when I was able to get a ‘nonreader’ hooked by a special story or character. Laughing Giraffe Books offers Book

What are some of the creative ways you

have found to juggle being a woman, a mother, a business owner and a wife? I have formed a ‘partnership’ of sorts with a neighbor and good friend who also runs a small business from her home. We often rely on each other for feedback, support, occasional child care, and a much needed glass of wine and dinner break. Visit: LaughingGiraffeBooks.com Also on Facebook and Twitter@ LaughingGBooks

ALEXANDRA: JUST FOR FUN Who is your biggest inspiration? My parents Favorite meal: sushi (my current craving) Favorite restaurant: Zebra’s Bistro in Medfield, MA (plays into the sushi craving) Favorite piece of clothing or accessory: Yoga pants‌ and a good book!

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HAPPYMOTHER’SDAY

Lauren Rubinstein, Wellesley, and Arline Heimlich, Newton Lauren & Lola are a mother/daughter team who launched their merchandising business in August 2010 when Lauren’s son, Noah, was 4 months old. (questions answered by Lauren) Tell us about the name: Lauren is my first name, and my mom is known as Lola among her grandchildren When my mom became a grandmother three years ago, she decided that

she felt too young to be called grandma, nana or, heaven forbid, bubbe. My sister-in-law, who is Filipino, suggested that she adopt the Tagalog word for grandmother, Lola. It suited her perfectly and once my nephew was born, it stuck. Please explain a little bit about your product/ business and how you developed the concept behind it: With the birth of my son, I wanted to embark on a new opportunity that kept

Annissa Essaibi George, Dorchester, Stitch House Annissa has four children – all boys (triplets Charlie, Kayden and Samir, age 4) and (big brother Douglas, age 6). She started planning her business when they were 2 and 6 months (crazy, she knows) and opened a year later. Annissa just celebrated the Stitch House's one-year anniversary but has been in business for 3.5 years. What is the hardest part or have been some of your struggles starting your own business? Now that I own a business, I have less time to dedicate to my crafts. I enjoy sewing and knitting but now that I own and operate a business that promotes these activities I have a lot less time to enjoy them myself. Some of what I struggle the most with is the administrative piece. There is no creativity in the paperwork of running a business. It simply needs to get done! I also kept my day job as a teacher. First the benefits are great and being self-employed with 4 kids and a husband, I need insurance. Plus 30 MAY2011

it helps that I love teaching high school – it is a different experience than toddlers – that’s for sure! What are some of the creative ways you have found to juggle being a woman, a mother, a business owner and a wife? Well, first I need to have help. I have some great employees that I trust working at my shop. I also have a wonderful husband that is great with our kids and our family that helps all the time. I am very lucky to have younger sisters who are always willing to pitch in. My husband and I also try to give each other nights 'off' to do our things outside the home. Visit: com

stitchhousedorchester.

ANNISSA: JUST FOR FUN Favorite dessert: Lemon mouse cake from Kondeitermeister. Sometimes I’ll sneak a quick ride to

Braintree just for a little snack. Second favorite is boxed cupcakes and store bought frosting Favorite piece of clothing or accessory: The Mother’s Day right after the triplets

HAPPYMOTHER’SDAY me closer to home while incorporating my passion for marketing to moms (the focus of most of my 10-year career in advertising). Even before becoming pregnant, children were at the forefront of my professional and personal life. I worked as a marketing manager for American Baby magazine, and I married a pediatrician. Once pregnant, I quickly realized that the baby marketplace is a crowded one and navigating beyond the baby superstore necessities is no easy task. Without the trusted advice of other moms, it is difficult to know what is irresistibly fabulous but thoroughly impractical and sensibly convenient but lacking in allure. Partnering with my mom, who owned a modeling agency and has spent 20 years hosting trunk shows featuring women’s clothing and accessories, we launched Lauren & Lola with the objective of helping other moms navigate the baby market and providing them with our own mommy and grandma must-haves.

business owner and a wife? 1. Naptime is sacred. A lot of new moms sleep when the baby sleeps. That’s when I get my work done. 2. Although difficult to motivate sometimes, date nights are essential. We’re often tempted to stay home in our PJs and order take out, but my husband and I never regret taking the time to get dressed up for a night out of yummy food and adult conversation. 3. Take-out is under-rated. Who is your biggest inspiration? My mom. When I was growing up, she was able to apply her passions to successful businesses that enabled her to be there everyday when

my brother and I came home from school and allowed us to sit down as a family for dinner together every night Visit: laurenlola.com.

LAUREN: JUST FOR FUN

North End Favorite piece of clothing or accessory: Charm necklace my husband gave me when my son was born Favorite childhood memory: Summers on Cape Cod with my family

Favorite meal: Homemade lasagna Favorite dessert: Chocolate bread pudding Favorite restaurant: Market in San Diego and The Daily Catch in Boston’s

When you have free time (ha!) what would your ideal day entail? Sleeping late, brunch with my family, a walk someplace with beautiful scenery, a massage and dinner at a hip new restaurant with my husband

What is the hardest part or have been some of your struggles starting your own business? The hardest part is finding enough hours in the day to complete all of my mommy and work duties. When you’re a working-fromhome mom, there’s a lot of pressure to be the perfect mother and the business-savvy, tireless entrepreneur. In trying to juggle the expectations associated with the devoted mother and the high-powered executive, I often feel like I’m doing a mediocre job at both tasks. What are some of the creative ways you have found to juggle being a woman, a mother, a

were born (May 2006) I really wanted a new, fancy coffee maker and my husband surprised me with an emerald and diamond ring. There are three emeralds (for the triplets) and two diamonds (for him and my older son). Favorite childhood memory: I should say sewing with my mom (she taught me) but that is second to hanging out at Carson Beach with my grandparents

BAYSTATEPARENT 31

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HAPPYMOTHER’SDAY

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HAPPYMOTHER’SDAY

MOMS ROCK!

Marleigh Brown OF WRENTHAM Age: 38 Occupation: Stay-at-home mom Married to: Tim Brown Mom of: Harry (8 1/2), Lily (7) and Sarah (5 1/2) BY

34 MAY2011

donna morin miller, steven king photography

M

arleigh Brown smiles as she recounts the events from the day before. The Monday after school vacation, her oldest was furiously writing the report he claimed was finished, her youngest was walking around half-dressed, and her middle daughter was outside being dragged across the lawn by Gus, their 9 month-old yellow lab. The bus pulled up five minutes later, and with the kids miraculously off to school, fully dressed, Marleigh planned the errands she’d run before heading to school herself for Harry’s presentation. She didn’t plan for Gus disappearing with the neighbor’s dog. She didn’t know she’d be spending the next two hours scouring the neighborhood for the canine couple, or that they’d both appear at the school as Marleigh headed for Harry’s classroom, just in time for her to corral them into the van. Life has a way of messing with plans. Marleigh, 38, of Wrentham, was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis two years ago. MS affects upwards of 250,000 people in the U.S., most diagnosed between the ages of 20-40. It is a progressive disease with many faces. Most people function effectively with MS, but muscle stiffness, weakness, memory loss and chronic fatique create sizable hurdles. Devastated at first, Marleigh lived in denial. “This was not in my plan.” Plan, she did. After the birth of her first son, Harry, Marleigh knew she wanted three more children. She knew what each gender would be and bought a charm bracelet, evenly spacing out three more places. Life for Marleigh was active, too. The oldest of four and the only girl, Marleigh says, “My brothers and I were competitive. We swam and played tennis. On weekends, we skied. It was always about who could get to the bottom first.” Raised in Swampscott, Marleigh rode her bike everywhere- to swim and cheering practices, as well as to babysit. “My bike was my freedom.” Marleigh ran her first triathlon in 2006. By then, Lily and Sarah had been born, and she wanted to incorporate exercise back into her life. “I love how it makes me feel.” Her brother, Dean, owner of Fit Werx bike shop in Peabody, lent Marleigh her first bike to train. “It was a little big, but I did well.” After that, she was hooked. The camaraderie, community and adrenaline rush were enough to keep Marleigh competing. “It wasn’t that I wanted to win,” she explains. “I just didn’t want anyone to beat me.” But two years ago, the diagnosis. A woman who took life by the bullhorns, Marleigh began to feel tired. Often. “Stairs were daunting.” She was too tired to smile for husband, Tim, when he arrived home. Spells of dizziness, memory loss, weakness in her hip and electric shocks in her legs prompted Marleigh to visit her doctor, who immediately sent her for an MRI. “The MRI showed lesions, some active and enhanced, in my brain and on my cervical spine.” Lesions are a symptom of MS, and interfere with proper functioning of the central nervous system. Marleigh was officially diagnosed months later after

stronger relationship. Although she still gets tired and sometimes angry with the disease, Marleigh is taking on that bull again. “I could have a pity party, but I’ve done that and it’s not much fun,” she says. “I’m truly thankful for the opportunity to see how precious life is.” It’s a message she passes on to her children. It’s the spirit that’s inspired the 65 cyclists on the Fit Werx team this year. It’s the inspiration that draws many of us to her. Marleigh didn’t plan on MS, but MS didn’t plan on Marleigh.

HAPPYMOTHER’SDAY

new lesions appeared during a subsequent MRI. “I was terrified. Sad. Guilty. My husband didn’t sign up for this. He didn’t marry MS.” Marleigh thought of her grandmother, whom she’d known only in her later years, after an MS diagnosis and a wheelchair. Although her grandmother had been active and an artist in her younger days, Marleigh never knew her then. “The wheelchair. That was the only MS I knew.” For months, Marleigh experienced the darkest days of her life. She feared MS would take her away from her children. She imagined never teaching them to ski, taking family bike trips and dancing at their weddings. She mourned not being able to race anymore. “I lost that part of my identity.” Over time, Marleigh found support. She processed her diagnosis with the help of others living with MS. Though it took time, Marleigh began to focus on what she could do now instead of what she might not be able to do later. She found inspiration in the quote, “Life is like photography. We develop from the negatives.” Months after the diagnosis, Marleigh signed on for the 2-day, 150 mile Cape Cod Bike MS event, which draws thousands of cyclists. As a show of support, all of her brothers signed on. Then a girlfriend, Heather Cunningham, offered to ride. “Marleigh’s been an inspiration to me. I wanted to help,” she says. Marleigh realized others wanted to help, too. “At first I wasn’t comfortable with being team captain,” she says. But excited to feel the “fire” again, Marleigh took on the task with fervor. In months, the team grew to 39, most of whom, like Heather, had never taken part in a bike event before. Collectively, they raised $70,000 for MS research and prevention. Marleigh was the first woman to cross the finish line. Today, Marleigh’s plans have changed. Often, she has no plans. “I’ve learned to say no, and I’m more selective with my time.” She slowed down enough to fall in love with yoga. She eats for healthloading her plate with vegetables, whole grains, fish, and avoiding dairy and gluten. Moving herself and her family to the top of her priority list, Marleigh taught her children to ski and the family bikes regularly. She and Tim have a

If you’d like to donate to the National MS Society, and to Team Fit Werx, search for the team at nationalmssociety.org at the Cape Cod Getaway Event, from Quincy to Provincetown. The event takes place the weekend of June 26-27. Donna Morin Miller is a Wrentham-based freelance writer, a second-year cyclist for Fit Werx and one of those fortunate to be a friend to Marleigh.

Take 10 with Marleigh 1. Best part of my day: The little sliver of quiet time after Tim leaves for work in the morning and before the kids wake up. It’s like a little secret between me, my coffee and Gus (our dog). 2. What makes me a better mom: Exercise. My husband’s support, and maybe a hug. And a deep breath every now and again helps, too. 3. Why cycling? Balance. I remember as a child being one of the last of my friends to learn to ride and the frustration of learning how to balance on those two wheels. It’s still about balance today. But now, it’s my go-to *something* when I need a break to refuel and recharge my batteries. It’s therapy — I ride and do my best thinking while on the saddle. It is meditative and calming when I need it — my mind can get lost in breathing in the scenery and scents of nature. And it’s a great workout when an adrenaline rush and good sweat is what I’m after. Cycling gives me balance in my life, and I know I’m always happier person when I get back from a ride — and able to be a better mom, wife and friend.

CHILDREN’S DENTISTS of Worcester

Marleigh chooses three words to describe her family: truth, unity, mine. 4. Songs I’ll blare on the radio: Pink’s “Raise your Glass,” Katy Perry’s “Firework,” “Anything” by Rob Thomas and anything from the 80s. Yes, I am bringing my kids up Top40, because really, I am still 17 at heart. 5. Current family obsessions: Our puppy Gus — a sweet yellow lab, and my iPad. (But the way my kids monopolize it, you’d never know it was mine.) 6. An inspiring parent I know: My mom (deceased). I miss her every day, and her memory and attitude continue to inspire me. Crazy, but I feel like I am still getting to know her with each passing year of motherhood. 7. Favorite family foods: Green smoothies. The only (kid you not) thing everyone likes in common. They are just fruit smoothies with a leaf or two of chard or kale blended in there.We like Friday heavy-apps-in-front-of-the-fire-night, too. A little something for everyone, and the kids help prepare it.

8. Favorite things about spring: Cycling weather, and everything outdoors followed closely by an empty mudroom and kids’ backpacks clear of all that winter snow gear. 9. Spring cleaning: I do not like to clean and do not like to think about it. Really. It makes me cranky. If I have to pick something, it will be the yard. A whole winter’s worth of dog clean up. I will start with that on a sunny day. 10. On Mother’s Day, we will probably: Enjoy watching a lacrosse clinic, our son’s First Holy Communion, a lacrosse game and a baseball practice. It will be like any other day, but I will reflect. On my life as a mom, and I will remember my own mom. Every day is Mother’s Day--there is just a bit more reflecting today. Moms Rock is an award-winning monthly feature that celebrates the good that moms do. Do you know a mom who just rocks? Email editor@baystateparent. com.

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TAKEGOODCARE

YES,You Do Have M O M Y M B A I BY

R N

dr. kate mcgonagle psyd, rnpc

No matter what area of my life, it is striking how often I hear mothers voice concerns about a decline in brain functioning after having children. They say their brains have become “mush” and that they “can’t remember anything anymore.” Sometimes this is said with humor, sometimes not, but when asked, most mothers say there has been a change, and not a positive one. In fact, surveys have shown that most women believe they are cognitively impaired after having children, reporting things like distractibility, difficulty concentrating, memory lapses and slowed thinking. And, as I’ve seen so many times in my own work as a psychologist, this belief is often combined with a sense of shame and fear. 36 MAY2011

HAPPYMOTHER’SDAY

The belief about cognitive decline in motherhood has become so prevalent that it has been given a name: “mommy brain.” Questions that tend to come up related to “mommy brain” are: Is it a “real” thing, modern day folklore? Does it go away (after having children, I was personally most interested in the last one)? But, despite the conviction of mothers that this problem is real, so far, the research on “mommy brain” suggests a different picture. Studies have shown that a woman’s brain actually grows in early motherhood. The volume of gray matter increases and a brand new grouping of nerves begin to develop, both things associated with an improvement in functioning. This growth has been found in areas involved with motivation, resiliency, reasoning, complex planning and judgment, as well as perception/sensory processing and what we refer to as “emotional intelligence” (things like empathy). Other studies have found that memory actually improves in motherhood, however specific to things related to her baby. Most of these brain changes are lifelong, and are so significant that experts have compared them to that of puberty and menopause. This information could certainly explain how women have been so successful at managing the demands of modern day motherhood. But, assuming there is no biological damage to a woman’s brain after having children, why so many concerns about mommy brain? The term “mommy brain” came into being after women began entering the workforce in large numbers. And, today, we know that mothers work more hours, juggle more tasks and sleep less than their mothers did. As our society continues to change, increasingly women need to have their minds in two (or more) places at once (and often be in two places at once), multitasking is the rule, rather than the exception, and the number of distractions a person gets during a normal day is ever increasing. Technology has increased the speed at which we function, and there is often a sense of urgency to even routine daily tasks. The amount of information we are exposed to and data we have to remember is unlike anything we’ve experienced before. In summary, most of us probably function every day under a significant amount of stress. Experts in the area of stress have long said that a certain amount of stress is a good thing-it helps us to function better. But, after a certain point, our functioning begins to decline-we start to make mistakes…and we forget things. Could our concerns about “mommy brain” be the result of, not only a change in priorities after having children, but of stress overload? Too much stress can have a negative impact on many things, such as health, mood, quality of life and yes, memory. There are many great resources which provide information about the effects of stress and stress management strategies. But, stress management is not a one-size-fits-all proposition; it should be based on your own needs and the needs of your family. Here are a few areas to begin to consider:

of what your ideal life would be like (within the context of your own reality). What is your ideal day? How do you want to feel? How is this picture different from your life right now? What things would need to change to move you closer to your ideal? Given that there are a finite number of hours each day, and we can’t do it all, it makes sense to spend as much time as possible on those things most important to you.

What are YOUR priorities?

Until I became a mother, I did not fully understand why mothers never seemed as excited as I was to talk about self care. Now I see more clearly, they were trying hard to be polite to my face, while thinking to themselves, “Are you kidding

Take time to really think about what your priorities are-without judgment. Create vision

Are you taking responsibility for YOUR choices in life? Each day involves a series of choices, and few things increase stress as quickly as feeling we have no control. If we go about our day thinking “Ugh, I have to go to work” or “I can’t go to the gym; I have to take my daughter to dance class” we’ve just raised our own stress level. In most cases, the reality is we are behaving by choice. A person chooses to go to work because she chooses to live a certain lifestyle, for example. A mother likely takes her daughter to dance class because her priority is giving her daughter the childhood experiences she feels are important. While finding time for the gym may be another problem to address, reminding yourself you are acting by choice, will actually bring your stress level down a notch (try it and see how quick it works!).

What is YOUR personal “rhythm?” In his book Crazy Busy, Ned Hallowell M.D. talks about something called rhythm. I like this word, and I borrow it often. It refers to how you tend to function in the world. At what pace do you work the best? How busy do you like to be? At what point do you start to feel disorganized? Whenever possible, organize your life according to your rhythm.

Are YOUR thoughts too negative? Thinking more negatively than is required of a situation is another quick and easy way to raise your own level of stress. Try to keep an accurate perspective about your successes, not just your mistakes. I have never had someone come into my office to say “Guess what? I remembered 187 things today, and I only forgot 1! I’m incredible!” Nope, not once. Reframe mistakes, not as moral issues or failures (which they are not), but perhaps as signals that your stress level has gotten too high.

Are you taking care of YOURSELF adequately?

negatively impacting your productivity, as well as your children and family, not just yourself. There are so many things that help to decrease stress and likely enhance our thinking, but these are a few to use as a starting point. One additional note when talking about mommy brain: Things such as depression, anxiety disorders or ADHD, can all affect things such as memory, concentration and attention. If you question whether these might apply

to you, you should speak with a mental health professional. Making lifestyle changes takes time, and these days, needs to be a deliberate purposeful activity. One way to start small is to give your brain a rest each day by scheduling time when you turn off the phones, computers and any other devices nearby, and spend uninterrupted time with your kids, or with yourself. When is the last time that happened?

michelle carr

me?” But, before skipping to the next paragraph, consider this. In a discussion about mothers and the relevance of self care, a colleague used the analogy of flight attendants giving directions at the beginning of a flight. Flight attendants tell everyone to put their own oxygen mask on first, even before putting it on their children. The reason is obvious. You are no good to your children if you have passed out. It is important to think about whether a lack of self care may be

DIRTYLAUNDRY

with Christine Hurley

I went to see my cousin, Kyle, and his brand-new baby this week. She is beautiful and has an absolutely perfect 2-year-old brother. I was envious. Mind you, I have five children of my own, ages 9 to 19, but I felt envy. Looking at how perfectly sweet and innocent they were made me really miss the baby days. I have been on a very bumpy road of “Am I now, and have I been, a good mother?” lately (one way menopause chooses to relentlessly torture us). I burst into uncontrollable sobbing at Target last week when I cut through the section of teeny-tiny Easter dresses. No more babies to dress up! But I’ve got to try to remember the very hard, stressful work of little ones, work that includes trying to find five perfect little Easter outfits every year (with my only goal of making sure they looked better than my nieces and nephews). This Easter, I was only concerned with making sure my boys wore their “good running pants” without the holes in the knees and that my three teenage girls got their eyebrows waxed and upper lip hair

bleached (this has to be kept up vigilantly; if not, I feel like we’re having dinner with Super Mario and his sidekick, John Stossel). After all, we want to be able to keep our focus on the two centimeters of black eyeliner they enjoy packing on every day (so pretty). We pick our battles here. And then there is my husband, Jimmy Hurley, who also needs to be told what to wear yet insists on doing his own shopping. Last year he had on a lovely pair of khakis from Ocean State Job Lot and a mock turtleneck from Walgreen’s 5 for $10 collection ( they display these next to the Clappers and the cases of Ensure). The best part was when I noticed the label on the khakis read “Jaclyn Smith for K-mart Ladies.” He is helpless. Aaahh…so many different phases of motherhood. I remember back (not so fondly) when four of my five children were in diapers at the same time. We had a makeshift “changing” station set up in our laundry room, on top of the washer. We had just brought brand-new baby #5 (Brendan) home. With about two good hours of sleep, and one eye open, I changed the

first diaper, stood her on the floor and off she went; changed the second diaper, stood her on the floor and off she went; changed the third diaper, stood him on the floor and off he went, changed the fourth diaper, stood him on the floor and... oops! The poor little guy collapsed like a noodle. He was only 5 days old – not my proudest moment – but thank God for the surrounding 12-square-foot cushion of laundry on the floor ( that nobody bothered doing while I was lounging around in the hospital delivering this poor child). He was fine, and all in all, unaffected. I think even at only 5 days old, he knew we were a little “off”…. This was a very upsetting event for me mixed with a little postpartum depression, a little exhaustion, a “little” overwhelmed. I called my mother. “Well,” she said, “I hate to tell ya honey, but these are the best days of your life.” Oh goody! Thanks Mom (always the bearer of good news, my dear mother). Potty training was another delight. Brendan proved toughest in this fight. He was very attached to the convenience of his Pampers and had absolutely no interest in giving them up. After being denied entry into nursery school due to his “potty untraining,” I had to get down to business. We actually reached a milestone of four straight days in “Spider man” underpants. So for Easter Sunday, I gathered up the troops for our annual trip to church ( I am a very, very guilt-ridden lapsed Catholic and have taken my poor family right down with me). I told Brendan that it was a special dress-up day and he would

HAPPYMOTHER’SDAY Dr. Kate McGonagle PsyD, RNPC is a licensed psychologist and clinical nurse specialist. Her specialty is in clinical health psychology with a focus on women’s mental health issues. Kate currently works at the Women’s Mental Health Specialty Clinic at UMass and in her private practice in Northborough, MA. She is the mother of two children, Bridget, 6, and Nolan, 4. Email: drkmcgonagle@gmail.com

be wearing his big-boy undies to church. No Pampers. Things were moving right along at Easter Vigil, when we all stood to sing a lovely hymn and Brendan started to vigorously shake his right leg. Ah yes, there it was: three little Milk Duds on the floor. I immediately grabbed a missalette, scooped the little clinkers into an offertory envelope, sealed it and stuck it in my fake Coach Bag (amazing how quick a mother can go into industrious mode instead of full-fledged panic). We all have our war stories from the battlefield of motherhood, some worse than others, but really ladies, we wouldn’t trade it for the world. I wish all of my fellow “soldiers” the happiest Mother’s Day, and to all the new moms, as crazy as things seem, and as tired as you are, take mental pictures every day. You don’t want to end up crying in the Target. Comedian Christine Hurley is a Plymouth mom of five who was First Runner Up in the nationally televised “Nick at Nite’s” search for America’s Funniest Mom contest. Come see Christine on Friday, May 6 at the Hanover Theatre, Worcester as she opens for Loretta Laroche’s show, Get a Life! Sane Wisdom for an Insane World. lorettalaroche.com. For booking Christine Hurley, call Dawn Christensen at 508-746-3998, ext 15. Dirty Laundry is a humor column about a mom’s day-to-day life raising kids. Basically she’s not afraid to air out the dirty laundry and say it like it is, making the rest of us not feel so alone.

BAYSTATEPARENT 37

PROMOTION

From left to right: Lisa Soulier’s daughter Colette; husband Ed; Candy O'Terry from Magic 106.7 and a Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk emcee; daughter Laurel; Lisa Soulier (pink sweater); Hank Phillipi Ryan from WHDH-TV; and Lisa's mother Rosemarie Novelline.

Lexington mom and breast cancer survivor Lisa Soulier with her two girls.

Family Grateful for Support of Mom

In

May 2006, Lexington resident Lisa Soulier, was diagnosed with breast cancer after receiving her first routine mammogram. She had no history of breast cancer in her family. Lisa and her family were devastated by the news. She and her husband, “suddenly needed to learn everything they could about her diagnosis, reprioritize their lives, and be completely flexible, because now the future was uncertain.” Lisa received care and invaluable support from her family, friends, and the 38 MAY2011

Lexington community. She also turned to the American Cancer Society’s Reach to Recovery program, a free service that matches trained breast cancer survivors with newly diagnosed patients to help answer non-medical questions and offer practical advice for facing diagnosis, treatment, and recovery from breast cancer. Lisa worried about how she would talk to her two young daughters about her diagnosis of breast cancer. The Reach to Recovery volunteer sent her materials from the American Cancer Society that were age appropriate for young children and could help them express their

feelings. Lisa found the program to be extremely helpful in helping her reach out to her children, who were aged 6 and 8 at the time, about her diagnosis as well as giving her strength while undergoing her treatment. Lisa and her family along with “Team Sweet Pea” have walked in the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk for 5 years. “I was impressed and grateful for the services provided by the American Cancer Society’s programs and was proud to walk and raise money to support these programs and breast cancer research,” said Lisa. “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is incredibly motivating and emotional no matter how you are affected by breast cancer. It feels a lot better knowing you are not alone.” Lisa’s daughter Collette shared this story “When you hear the words ‘your mother has breast cancer’ come out of your dad’s mouth – it is a life changing event. Even if you haven’t grasped the concept of it yet, you subconsciously know that your life will be forever changed by this event. This is how I felt. At first I was confused

because I hardly knew what cancer was; it just seemed like a mysterious sickness that was very bad. A few minutes after they dropped the news, my parents gave us each a plastic suitcase with a stuffed animal and books from the American Cancer Society. This gift made me feel much better. It let me know that I was not the only one out there dealing with this and that there were people who deal with this disease everyday. I wrote in the journal from the American Cancer Society and read the books. Just that littlest bit of comfort from the books and the journal helped to bring my hope up to a point were I could put up a smile on my face to support my Mom.”

Lisa’s daughters, now 13 and 10, are so proud of their mom. Lisa’s daughter Laurel said “I’m proud when I walk for my mom, who is a breast cancer survivor.”

PROMOTION

American Cancer Society Encourages Moms to Put Health First to Fight Breast Cancer and Celebrate More Birthdays

As

the nation celebrates Mother’s Day this year, the American Cancer Society is encouraging women to choose to put their personal breast health first to stay well and reduce their risk of breast cancer. An estimated 207,090 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to occur among women in the U.S. and about 40,230 deaths are expected. Women know that reducing their breast cancer risk is important, but they often choose to put others’ health first. A recent nationwide survey by the American Cancer Society found that an overwhelming 95 percent of women say they need to improve their healthy lifestyle. Yet, 58 percent admit that they put others’ health before their own.

• Reduce alcohol consumption. • If you are 40 and older, get a mammogram and clinical breast exam every year. • The Society recommends that women ages 20 to 39 receive a clinical breast exam once every three years.

Fighting Back The American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® walks unites communities across the nation each year to help save lives from breast cancer and provide hope to people facing the disease. Since 1993, nearly seven million walkers have raised more than $400 million through Making Strides. To learn more or join the movement, visit cancer.org/ stridesonline.

There are steps you can take to reduce your breast cancer risk and stay well. • Maintain a healthy body weight. • Engage in regular physical activity.

Join the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, a 5-Mile Route Along the Charles River. Go to www.cancer.org/stridesonline Sunday, October 2, 2011 Charles River Esplanade, Boston Registration and Rolling Start: 8 am to 10 am DCR Hatch Memorial Shell Last year, over 40,000 supporters walked and helped raise over $3 million dollars. Come be a part of the fight against breast cancer.

1.800.ACS.2345 www.cancer.org/stridesonline Thank you to Flagship and baystateparent sponsor, WEGOTSOCCER

BAYSTATEPARENT 39

HOMESWEETHOME

OPEN HOUSE with

Christine and Faye

N

ewly-married Faye Guanipa Hurley of Uxbridge describes her childhood home like this, “My mom and dad always worked to make any house we lived in feel warm and welcoming and always beautiful. Re-purposing objects has always been my mom’s strong point throughout every house we have lived in.” In honor of Mother’s Day and baystateparent’s home issue, Faye, who has recently decorated a home of her own, and her mother, Christine Guanipa of Whitinsville, treat us to their open houses. “Our family motto in decorating is ‘Creativity up, expenses down,’” says Christine. Both mother and daughter have an art school background and two very different generational perspectives. “My mom and I are constantly bouncing creative ideas off one another as we both try to keep up with the changing art/design scene,” says Faye, who is the oldest of three girls. “We saturate ourselves with do-it-yourself magazines and books, trips to museums and the latest in fashion...” Be sure to take a good look as these designing women love change; their rooms evolve with the seasons, a great find or one of their frequent mother-daughter excursions.

photos courtesy of christine guanipa 40 MAY2011

HOMESWEETHOME

Tour Christine’s living room and dining room (left). My home: warm, creative, inviting and user-friendly Walls: Our oldest daughter Faye painted the Mona Lisa, and the black & white image of a woman is my mom (I enlarged her photo for $3 at Staples). The eye chart is from IKEA and provides a nice soft light. The target sign [behind the bar] cost us $1; we thought it was a fun graphic. We found it at a sport store while vacationing in Maine. Fireplace: When we moved into our home seven years ago, the old fireplace was covered with an ugly board. We later learned that the heating system is unable to support a working fireplace thus the black and white fabric makes the plywood more attractive. The bar: This was an amazing trash find. Faye helped me lift that heavy thing into the car during a downpour, but it was way cool and I knew it had some life in it. It just needed a good cleaning. Clutter: I am a big fan of the “declutter” movement, and I hide and organize things in vintage suitcases, boxes, baskets, etc. [Note the suitcase by the bar] Style with kids: Although we have

never lived in large homes, I have always given our three girls a little space to call their own to play and create (usually in the kitchen). I aways had a living room that was a little off limits to the big toys and creative messes of the day. The off-limits living room was so that I could have a space that was tranquil, peaceful and pleasing on the eyes. Tips: Pick an accent color. I love red and have a few pieces in the room pop with that color. You can then spray-paint thrift store vases or china pieces all the same color making an interesting coffee table piece. It’s a cohesive and modern yet inexpensive look. Also to bring a cohesiveness to mismatched furniture, paint accent pieces the same color. Just cool: We have an old children’s tin stove from the 1950s in our kitchen that houses our vitamins. Our 10-year-old daughter, Anna, loves to open the stove door to retrieve them. I spray-painted an old bread box that is now on my desk housing files. An old typewriter is always on display with a new quote of the day.

Tour Faye’s kitchen and living room (below and on next page). My first home is filled with: Art, fun fabrics and the 40s and 50s. We loved the old style of our home and the original wood trim throughout the house. My favorite room is the kitchen with the fabulous fiftiesreminiscent aluminum cupboards and lots of natural light. The fridge: This is an IKEA wall decal and was my mom’s idea. I had these decals on my bedroom wall at my mom’s house and when I moved, she suggested I stick them on the fridge to go with all the red accents in the kitchen. The kitchen island: That table was there when we moved in. I actually didn’t want to keep it; it was a dirty, ugly butcher block table. But again, my mom suggested we paint it. I did need more counter space, so we found a cherry red gloss paint and now it is a feature piece in the kitchen. I do most of my cooking on that table!

Favorite shopping: Bernat Mills Antiques in Uxbridge, MA houses several independent dealers filling 10x10 booths with all kinds of delectables. Of course I shop Target, HomeGoods and IKEA. Favorite Web sites: designspongeonline.com and jonathanadler.com

photos courtesy of faye guanipa hurley

MOTHER

DAUGHTER

BAYSTATEPARENT 41

Color: I wanted to go along with the 50’s theme for the kitchen, something bright and happy. I knew exactly what I was looking for in my living room due to an inspirational magazine clipping, an image of a luxurious living room with a mustard yellow couch almost exactly the same as ours with lovely blue walls to complement it. The color choices seemed strange to some people but I was convinced I had to find a couch like that [and she did...at the Salvation Army!]. Furniture choices: A good mix of second-hand and new. I learned patience when we moved in as my first inclination was to to fill up the house right away so it didn’t ever feel unfinished or empty but instead I took the time to shop carefully and only pick what I really loved. The house has come together slowly but I don’t regret one thing. This was something I’ve learned from my mom over the years. The clock: HomeGoods! They had some fun retro style clocks, and it was perfect for the style we were going for.

photos courtesy of faye guanipa hurley

HOME SWEETHOME

Wish list: Most of the housewares, furniture and linens at Anthropologie. Favorite shopping: IKEA, Target, Pier 1, Home Goods, CB2, Crate & Barrel as well as Salvation Armies with lots of furniture, The Bernat Mill Antique Mall in Uxbridge, MA, flea markets and Rocket to Mars in Providence. Favorite Web sites: designspongeonline. com, ruffledblog.com, apartmenttherapy. com and theinspiredroom.net

Christine Guanipa of Whitinsville is the mother of three girls and the creator of designer pocketbooks: littlemanoriginals.com. Faye Guanipa Hurley is a recent fashion design graduate from Mass College of Art & Design. Newly married this past September, Faye and her husband are just settling into their first apartment as Faye pursues her business creating one-of-a-kind statement jewelry while doing some freelance graphic design on the side.

For more information, visit: fayeguanipa.blogspot. com, etsy.com/shop/fayeguanipa and facebook. com/jewelrybyfaye. Want to see more of Christine and Faye’s homes? Check out the baystateparent photo gallery at baystateparent.com for some great shots and ideas.

Looking for a new item to freshen up a room? Come to CUTIQUES, where you can find all the home decor, houseware items & furniture you need to decorate your home. Our furniture department is getting a HOME of its own to make ROOM for our NEW WOMENSWEAR selection at our flagship store. We will continue to offer children’s, tweens & maternity. As well as toys & baby gear.

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M O

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a O R m O TH

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DECORATING WITH

STACY CURRAN

MARSHFIELD MOM OF TWO AND OWNER OF

SOUTH SHORE DECORATING carrie wattu

photos courtesy of south shore decorating

photos courtesy of south shore decorating

BY

B

eat bedroom boredom this month with a peek into three designer bedrooms in the Bay State.

In the master bedroom, Stacy used standard curtains from Bed, Bath & Beyond and added the trim herself. “This is an easy thing anyone can do. Take a regular curtain panel; find a secondary fabric that works in the room, and add 4” strips of the secondary fabric to the panels. I did these with fabric glue; although, of course they could be sewn, too. A couple of hours of work and the curtains go from standard to custom at a fraction of the cost.” Stacy hung the curtains on regular rods level with the mirror (a lucky find at HomeGoods) and extended the curtain rod beyond the window casing to create the illusion of a larger window but more importantly, to avoid blocking light. Stacy has extra fun when decorating 44 MAY2011

children’s rooms. “I can do things there that I would never do in the rest of the house,” she says. “You might not really be willing to paint the family room or the kitchen in bold stripes, but in a kid’s room, why not? They are usually the most fun and colorful rooms in the house, and the only place where I would do a ‘themed’ room.” In the girl’s room, Stacy added color and an element of sophistication with fabric. “It can be as easy as adding curtain panels above a twin bed,” she says. “You can take a simple ‘off-the-rack’ curtain and hang it behind the bed to create a canopy effect for a fraction of the price that it would cost do make a custom canopy.” Because there is not a lot of architectural interest in the boy’s room pictured here (no wood flooring or moulding, etc.), Stacy wanted the eye to focus on the colors and patterns in the room. “This room definitely has a striped theme. I

did the paint first, and then added the rug and then the bedding. I didn’t really know for sure if it would all work together until the last piece came in, and although I was worried that it might be too much, I was very happy with the way the room felt when it was completed,” she says.

MORE DISHING ON DECORATING Favorite colors: Blues and greens, in the light costal variety -- cool, beachy hues Decorating obsessions: Lighting! Lighting can make or break a room. I always want to add layers of light in every room from nurseries to game rooms to kitchens. Decorating pet peeves: When people think they have to follow certain ‘rules,’ and therefore aren’t themselves. I think it

is vitally important that people love their homes and feel totally comfortable in them, regardless of any decorating ‘rules.’ Bet you didn’t know: Interior designers make mistakes in their own homes, too! I have bought things that I absolutely love, only to wonder a few years later ‘What was I thinking?’ (although thankfully not too often!!)Also, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune to hire a decorator. In fact, if you hire a decorator who passes trade discounts on to the client, the decorator’s fee is often covered by the savings that you get on purchasing items through the decorator. Favorite store: HomeGoods! It is definitely hit or miss, but there is no better feeling than finding exactly what you need at a great price locally, and being able to bring it home that day. I also shop a lot Online. I know that some people are

Stacy Curran has loved interiors and decorating since she was a small child and describes her style as casual elegance. “My mother always thought I would go into design of some sort, but after college, I went to law school,” she says. But after years of commuting and long hours practicing securities enforcement, Stacy left her job to stay home with her children, Bobby and Ellie, and pursue her dream of owning her own interior design business. Her advice for people interested in redecorating their homes is: “Be open and

honest about what you want, what you like and what you don’t like. And only hire someone that you connect with. Don’t hire exclusively based on the designer’s portfolio – you also have to be able to talk to and communicate well with the person you hire.” Some of her best and most successful jobs have turned into friendships with the client because of that mutual respect and a genuine connection. Stacy can be reached at 781262-2473 and southshoredecorating.com.

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leery of that, but truly, to get the best selection, you have to be willing to look everywhere, including Online. No children allowed?: Unless the client specifically asks for it, I would never design a room that is off limits to the children. I think that the most important thing for a family, regardless of the size of their home, is to make it comfortable and happy for their family. This can certainly be accomplished with an eye toward style. My own home is definitely ‘decorated,’ but is done so in a way that is accessible to the children and an active family life. Family clutter: I hate clutter, so we have a lot of storage space for all of the kids’ ‘stuff.’ I do also ask them to pick up every night before bed -- if not, it accumulates to the point where I have to spend my whole day picking up. I do believe, even though it can be hard to put into practice, that there is a place for everything and everything has its place; it’s just a matter of getting everyone to do their part in putting everything in its place (without getting too fussy about it). Decorating Magic – How long does it last?: I constantly want to change my rooms! No matter how much I love them, and how perfect they are, I always want to try new colors, new furniture, etc. Thank goodness I have a husband who can reign me in; although, sometimes I am annoyed that I can’t always do whatever I want with the house. We’d be in the poorhouse if I were left to my own devices! Carrie Wattu is editor of baystateparent. After working on this issue, she can’t wait to freshen up some of the rooms in her home.

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HOMESWEETHOME

CAPTURED

There’s No Place

LIKE HOME LIVING: Sara Padrusch, a Belmont mom of two, is a homeschooling, pug-loving, lipgloss-wearing lover of vintage junk. She can most often be found at the zoo with her kids watching the gorillas and at thrift stores looking for her latest treasure. To see more of her fabulous shiny red house, visit her blogs: shinyredhouses.blogspot. com and secularschoolhouse. blogspot.com.

PLAYING: Wendy Wiedenman of Holliston has two girls, 18 months apart, Chloe (6 months) and Olivia (24 months) so her new playroom is getting a lot of use. Wendy says, “The IKEA storage bins keep everything organized but are also accessible for little hands. The table and chair set (also from IKEA) hosts many a tea party and is also perfect for craft projects. The ‘splat mat’ (Land of Nod.com) keeps the rug clean.” 46 MAY2011

DINING: Birguni Ives of Ayer got creative when the glass insert in her dining room table broke. In its place, she created a moss/rock garden. “It was supposed to be temporary,” says the mom of one, “but it looks like it’s here to stay.”

HOMESWEETHOME Dreaming: The inspiration for this twin-boy nursery was owl bedding that Boston mom Cate Menon loved for its colors and clean, modern design (DwellStudio). From there, she chose cheery apple green for the walls. "We picked 'Napa Vineyards' by Benjamin Moore as homage to our favorite vacation spot, Napa Valley," says Cate. They used "Peacock Feathers," a cool, bright turquoise for the trim and created a coordinating rug using easy-to-install Flor tiles. "The bold paint colors and bright graphic element of the textiles were a perfect fit with our loft condo's clean lines and modern decor," Cate explains. Because the nursery does not have a closet, the Menons added shelving components by Elfa. Captured: bsp is looking for photos of summer fun and the first day of school. Email editor@baystateparent.com. Also, Captured is now Online at baystateparent.com (click Captured). Upload your photos/ videos under a user name you choose and share the stories behind them, or just check out what's there (some great ideas).

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BAYSTATEPARENT 47

HOMESWEETHOME

JUNK D R AW E R S

A LITTLE OF THIS, A LITTLE OF THAT SAFETY TATS customized with your cell number (or you can order blank tattoos and write on them yourself). There are even tattoos to alert others to a child’s medical, health or allergy need. Stock up for summer: safetytat.com.

YUMMY MUMMY After years of baking her Grandma Irene’s famous chocolate brownies, Southboro mom, Melissa Roiter, decided to share them with all of us. Melissa named her business, Yummy Mummy Brownies, after the nickname her friends gave her after being featured in a Boston Globe Mother’s Day makeover. Today, Melissa offers her signature brownies (“It’s the best brownie I’ve ever had,” says bsp Yummy Mummy Brownie Pops

Q&A

‘Tis the season for kids and crowds: theme parks, zoos, playgrounds, beaches... Loosing track of your child for just a moment is sheer terror. That’s why a mom of three invented a temporary safety child ID tattoo that comes

Should I pay my children for doing household chores? Working only for money is the least meaningful reason to work. Paying children to do house work puts children in a power position to accept, decline or negotiate the pay...If you pay children for working around the house, you will win the battle and lose the war because of the poor relationship set up between work and money. Susan Tordella Westford, MA author of Raising Able raisingable.com

staffer, Dawn Hines, “beautiful, delicious and perfectly-cut.”), really hip gift sets and equally cool apparel for moms and babies with the Yummy Mummy phrase. All this is done while juggling family life with 7-year-old triplets, Eve, Jack and Charlotte. Well done! yummymummybrownies.com.

ONE SMART DVD “What should I do?” A new interactive DVD helps kids ages 4 to 10 practice decision-making skills. Inspired by Jack and the Beanstalk and The Princess and the Frog, 30-year-old Jared Starr of Shrewsbury created a fairy tale adventure, “Arthur and the Curse of the Rain Sorceress,” set in the Middle Ages. “If you make smart choices, you will lead the main character, Arthur, to success,” he says. With dozens of choices to make and over four hours of content, it’s worth a look: Smart-ChoicesKids.com.

48 MAY2011

Founders of Sitter Mixers

NEW WAY TO MEET SITTERS There’s a new way find babysitters you trust: Attend a Sitter Mixer! North Shore moms, Katy Kanghorst and Tara Harville-Fry, both had difficulty finding quality babysitters for their kids. Today, they host Sitter Mixer events all over New England to match babysitters with families. They describe it as “speed-dating meets job fair” in a fun mom’s night out atmosphere. Check it out: sittermixer.com.

Junkdrawers strives to highlight the products, people and places of Massachusetts. Have an idea? E-mail editor@baystateparent.com.

HOMESWEETHOME

Courtesy of Getty Images

A Down-to-Earth Heating & Cooling Solution

I

ncreasing energy costs have many homeowners looking for new ways to save money. According to the Department of Energy, the average homeowner pays about $1,900 a year on utilities, most of it going toward heating and cooling bills. Adding insulation and sealing ducts can help, but what can be done to make some significant, long-term savings? A growing number of homeowners are finding savings in their own back yards by utilizing the earth’s natural energy to heat and cool their homes. It’s called geothermal energy — and it can save you some green while you’re going green.

Geothermal Energy Geothermal systems — also known as ground source heat pump systems (GSHPS) or geothermal heat pumps (GHPs) have been around for decades but are just now coming to the attention of many homeowners. The Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency have both endorsed ground source heat pump systems as among the most energyefficient and environmentally friendly heating, cooling and water heating systems available.

How It Works The temperature of the earth below the surface — from a few feet to hundreds of feet down — is moderate and fairly constant. In many places it stays in the mid- to upper-50s all year. Instead of burning fossil fuels, a geothermal heat pump absorbs the energy stored in the earth to heat a home in the winter. In the summertime a heat pump rejects the heat from the space and transfers it back into the earth — making it extremely efficient and cost-effective. To make it work, you need three basic elements: an underground loop system, a geothermal heat pump and an air-delivery system.

• Loop System: This is a system of highdensity polyethylene plastic pipes buried in the ground. They are filled with fluid, a mixture of water and antifreeze, that circulates throughout the pipes. Openloop systems circulate water drawn from a well. • Geothermal Heat Pump: The geothermal heat pump extracts heat from the fluid within the loop using a vaporcompression refrigeration cycle. This heat is then sent into the home. In the summer, it extracts heat from the indoor air and transfers it to the fluid, which cools as it circulates through the loop. • Air-delivery System: Most geothermal pumps use an electrically driven fan to distribute the air through ducts in the home. A residential system can also be equipped to heat household water, as well. According to the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association, a geothermal system has efficiencies 50 to 70 percent higher than other heating systems, and cooling efficiencies 20 to 40 percent higher than available air conditioners. That means direct savings on home utility bills.

How It Saves You Money According to Bosch Thermotechnology North America: • Geothermal heat pumps have the lowest life cycle cost today — 25 to 50 percent less than a conventional system. • You can save up to 70 percent on your energy bill, depending on location and which GSHPS you use. • Although the upfront costs are often more than a conventional system, the cost can be recouped within 5 to 7 years. • Local and federal tax credits as well as rebates decrease installation costs. • Costs may be further reduced by special financing options offered by heat pump manufacturers, local utilities and lending institutions.

How You Can Get Tax Credits Under the recent tax credit legislation, a taxpayer who installs a geothermal heat pump in a residence could be eligible for a tax credit of 30 percent of the installed cost of the system. The system must meet Energy Star requirements in effect at the time the system is completed. This credit is not limited to the primary residence, but may be used for any property a taxpayer owns. Equipment must be “placed in service”

Horizontal ground loop systems are used where there is sufficient space.

between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2016. Whether you’re looking to build a new, more energy-efficient home, or want to cut back your utility bills on your current home, consider exploring ways you can use the energy Mother Nature has in your own yard. Source: Bosch Thermotechnology North America Article courtesy of Family Features

Vertical ground loop systems are used where space is limited.

High-density polyethylene plastic pipes buried in the ground are filled with circulating fluid that absorbs the ground’s heat and brings it indoors.

The Earth-Friendly Choice

Want to Learn More?

• About a million geothermal systems have been installed in the U.S. since 1980. They save more than 14 million barrels of crude oil per year. • Current geothermal systems are eliminating more than 3 million tons of carbon dioxide the equivalent of taking 650,000 automobiles off the road. • Geothermal systems have no carbon dioxide emissions or any other negative effects on the environment.

• There are state, local, utility and federal incentives that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency. Look up rebates, tax credits and financing options in your area at the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency: dsireusa.org. • See how much you might be saving by using the Geothermal Savings Calculator at geosavings.bosch-climate.us. • Get tips for selecting and installing a geothermal heat pump system at energysavers.gov. BAYSTATEPARENT 49

HOMESWEETHOME

Eat Dirt

And your veggies too! "It can be a struggle to ensure kids are not only having fun, but also getting the nutrients they need,â€? says child nutrition expert and mother Jodie Shield, RD, “but there are things you can do to make learning about and eating vegetables fun." To help parents meet their children's recommended two to five cups of fruits and vegetables each day, Shield offers four inventive activities and delicious recipe ideas - all guaranteed to help kids love their veggies. • Hit the Farmers' Market for a Scavenger Hunt: Visit your local farmers' market with the whole family. Divide a list of vegetables that includes family favorites and new additions, and let everyone search for their veggies. Once everyone has returned, use the fresh produce to prepare dinner together.

Vegetable Garden “Dirt� Cups with Ranch Dip

• Cool (Pizza) Down When It Heats Up: On a hot summer day, let your kids "veg out" with a no-bake pizza. Start with a pre-baked pizza crust and spread on a mixture of equal parts low-fat cream cheese and ranch dressing. Encourage your kids to add their favorite veggies on top - try broccoli florets, bell peppers, portabella mushrooms and diced green onion.

Prep Time: 10 minutes Serves 8 - 10 You’ll Need: 2 - 4 cups pumpernickel pretzel or dark corn chip crumbs 2 cups Hidden Valley Original Ranch Light Dressing Variety of vegetables for dipping: mini carrots with tops, pea pods, mini sunburst squash, celery sticks, green beans or whatever your child likes to dip

• Erect Veggie Totem Poles: Your kids will have a blast turning vegetable kebobs into totem poles. Help them thread fresh vegetables - such as baby carrots, zucchini chunks, diced cucumber and cherry tomatoes - through a wooden skewer. Using their imagination and a little ranch dressing as "glue," let them make faces with small pieces of veggies. Use the leftover dressing as a dip.

1. Crush the pumpernickel pretzels or dark corn chips until mixture resembles dirt. 2. Pour a layer of dirt crumbs into the bottom of a clear container (or for single servings pour into paper cups). 3. Pour dressing over crumbs then add a thicker layer of dirt crumbs on top. 4. Place vegetables into dirt cup or serve them on the side to dip.

Courtesy of Family Features and Hidden Valley

Visit LoveYourVeggies.com for more fun recipes, tips and activities to help your kids eat right and beat the heat this summer.

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9OSEMITE nership! w O w e N Under We are a consignment shop that carries quality clothing from newborns to juniors, as well as maternity.

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We also carry toys, books, baby gear, furniture and much more.

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Do you trust your water? What is your water problem? PROBLEM: UĂŠ,i`É Ă€ÂœĂœÂ˜ĂŠ ĂŠĂŠĂŠ-ĂŒ>ˆ˜ˆ˜} UĂŠ,ÂœĂŒĂŒiÂ˜ĂŠ }}ĂŠ-“iÂ?Â?ĂŠ UĂŠ Â?Ă•iÉ Ă€iiÂ˜ĂŠ ĂŠĂŠĂŠ-ĂŒ>ˆ˜ˆ˜} UĂŠ-V>Â?i]ĂŠ ÀÞÊ-Žˆ˜ UĂŠ"`ÂœĂ€Ă‰/>ĂƒĂŒi

CAUSE: UĂŠ Ă€ÂœÂ˜Ă‰ >˜}>˜iĂƒi UĂŠ Ăž`Ă€Âœ}iÂ˜ĂŠ-Ă•Â?w`i UĂŠ Vˆ`ˆVĂŠ7>ĂŒiĂ€ UĂŠ >Ă€`˜iĂƒĂƒ UĂŠ ˆ˜iĂ€>Â?ĂƒĂ‰ ĂŠĂŠĂŠ ÂœÂ˜ĂŒ>“ˆ˜>Â˜ĂŒĂƒ

Call for a free in-home water analysis & consultation

Advanced Water Quality Systems, Inc 800-879-7873 www.kinetico.com www.awqsys.com

Who says cleaning house isn’t FUN?

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baystateparent winner of 30 awards in 2010 INCLUDING BEST PARENTING PUBLICATION IN NORTH AMERICA

“baystateparent covers all the bases for parents in Massachusetts. Eye-catching covers... a great reference with a full calendar.

Excellent ad layout and design. Great use of 4-color in ads and content. Appears to be a strong revenue producer.” - New England Newspaper & Press Association

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CLASSES BEGINNING IN JUNE! *Day Camps *Lessons and Classes *All Ages and Abilities *All Instruments and Voice 11 Irving Street, Worcester 508-635-6900 worcesteracademyofmusic.com *Not affiliated with Worcester Academy

Register by May 31ST and receive

$10.00 off your Fall registration fee!

WE HAVE A CURE! Princess Camps Broadway Camps Acrobatic Camps Weekly Summer Classes Ages 2College/Adult Master Classes Zumba Classes and the Famous Elite Convention!

LEGOs, Motors & Robotics Camps for Boys & Girls ages 6-14

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Bostonbadminton.com 4-5 DAY BADMINTON CAMPS JUN 21-JUL 29

BRIGHT MINDS EXPLORING TOGETHER YMCA of Central Massachusetts Summer Camp BOROUGHS FAMILY BRANCH YMCA 4 VALENTE DRIVE WESTBOROUGH, MA 01581 508-870-1320 CENTRAL COMMUNITY BRANCH YMCA 766 MAIN STREET WORCESTER, MA. 01610 508-755-6101

WWW.YMCAOFCM.ORG FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE 52 MAY2011

GREENDALE FAMILY BRANCH YMCA 75 SHORE DRIVE WORCESTER, MA 01605 508-852-6694

910 BOSTON TURNPIKE, SHREWSBURY, MA 508-842-5500 ELITEDANCE-MA.COM INFO@ELITEDANCE-MA.COM WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ELITEDANCE

Camps run Mon-Fri 9am-3pm, in Eastern MA & NH towns from late June - mid August For more information call 603-731-8047 or 603-714-8784, or visit www.LegoYourMind.com

SUMMERCAMPCOUNTDOWN

Summer Lessons & Classes Creative Arts Weeks Jazz Ensemble, Fiddle Guitar Ensemble Private Lessons Suzuki Violin/Guitar Music & Movement

www.pakmusic.org Up The Hill from Holy Cross College Ɖ (508) 791 - 8159 Ɖ

Invent Now proudly presents the wonder and excitement of the Club Invention program. Led by local educators, this engaging program immerses children in grades one through six in hands-on, inquiry based activities disguised as fun! Discounts are available — register today!

% $" $ $% ' Call today! A Family Tradition Since 1965

Maplewood SUMMER DAY CAMP

An ideal combination of fun & learning. Campers today‌ Leaders tomorrow.

Hosted at local schools throughout the Greater Boston area. Call for details!

www.clubinventionNE.org 800.968.4332 In partnership with: United States Patent and Trademark Office

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www.maplewoodyearround.com

Have a SEW Cool Summer! Pre-Register at our Open House -Ă•Â˜`>ÞÊ >ĂžĂŠÂŁĂƒĂŒĂŠUĂŠ£ä>“‡{“

at Harvard d and Northeastern Universities

Weekly Themed Sewing Programs -ĂŒ>Ă€ĂŒÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠĂœiiÂŽĂŠÂœvĂŠ Ă•Â˜iĂŠĂ“äĂŒÂ… Full Day ageĂƒĂŠ£ä³ĂŠUĂŠ >Â?vĂŠ >ÞÊ>}iĂƒĂŠnÂł Visit www.readysetsew.org for more info!

A summer day camp for swimmers ages 7-17 who want to improve their start, turn and stroke techniques.

10% Discount off

The Technique Swim Camp is designed to develop the individual swimmer. Experienced instructors serve as role models for our campers, promoting sportsmanship and providing a positive and healthy learning environment.

For more information on the 2011 program and registration options visit our website at www.techswimcamp.com or call 617-484-0550

One Summer Sewing Session

Expires May 31st

40 North Main St./Rte. 140 North Grafton, MA 01536 PH: 508-839-7800 M-F 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-5pm M

Learn to Sew Studio

Summer 2011

Gymnastics Learning Center

“Building the Pride Inside Since 1983�

Help Your Child Learning be Healthy Center and Fit! Gymnastics s !MERICAN 2ED #ROSS 3WIM LESSONS IN OUR HEATED POOLS s h'YM 3WIMv (ALF AND FULL DAY CAMPS s &UNTASTIC 4HEMED #AMP WEEKS s 'IRLS AND "OYS 'YMNASTIC ,ESSONS h7ALKERS AND 5P v

508-792-1551 FREE Trial Class Fall Programs New students only

Building a Foundation of Knowledge Within

REGISTER TODAY

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SUMMERCAMPCOUNTDOWN . Kids Club activities before, during, and after dinner allow parents to enjoy dinner at their own pace . Outdoor “big mountain� natural playscape for energetic young explorers . Daily programs include scavenger hunts, crafts, geocaching, more

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56 MAY2011

DAY & RESIDENT CAMPS for KIDS, TEENS, FAMILIES,

SINGLE PARENTS, GRANDPARENTS CAMPS: Chef, Horseback, Family, Grandparent, Leadership, Quest, Art, Family Vacation Camps, Jr High, Adults w/ Special Needs

2 CAMP LOCATIONS 2 OPEN HOUSES

GROTONWOOD OCEANWOOD SUNDAY MAY 15 1:30 - 4:30

167 Prescott St

Camp Open House June 25, 2011 10:00am-1:00pm

DOES YOUR CHILD HAVE ADHD OR BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS?

Come join us on June 25th for the open house at camp and to meet the counselors of the summer of 2011.

Award-winning Summer Treatment Program at Judge Baker Children’s Center!

Spaces still available for Teen Program, On the Road: Challenge. Teens in grades 7-9 will take on personal and group challenges. Trips may include kayaking, rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, sailing, bouldering and more! For more information, please check the website or give camp a call.

Kids learn self-control & social skills through praise and reward systems! 6-week program for kids 6-12 years old! Space is limited, so apply early!

SUNDAY MAY 29 NOON - 3:00 17 Royal St

GROTON, MA

OCEAN PARK, ME

978.448.5763

207.934.9655

WWW.GROTONWOOD.ORG WWW.OCEANWOOD.ORG

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.jbcc.harvard.edu/STP stp@jbcc.harvard.edu 617-278-4286

MetroWest YMCA Hopkinton 45 East Street Hopkinton, MA 01748 (508) 435-9345 • www.metrowestymca.org

Why Be An Amateur When You Can Be A PRO! PRO CHEER CAMP Ages 6-14 July 18-22, 9am-3pm August 8-12, 9am-3pm

Join Us for Camp this Summer! BEGINNER – ELITE TUMBLE CAMP

We provide a fun & energetic group of instructors who are all USASF & USAG certified

July 11-14, 9am-3pm

Class, Clinics & Birthday Parties are available!

Over 17,000 square foot facility located at 507 Lancaster Street, Leominster, MA

www.ProAthleticsAllStars.com (978) 466-8776 BAYSTATEPARENT 57

SUMMERCAMPCOUNTDOWN

MetroWest YMCA Day Camp

SUMMERCAMPCOUNTDOWN

Look What I LEARNED at Camp! A child’s experiences at summer camp help shape who he or she will become in the future. The life lessons that summer camps provide are valuable in every aspect of their lives: friendship, leadership and community citizenship. Here are some lifeenriching lessons that are sure to be in store for campers this summer:

Camp’s Top 10 List of Life Lessons 1. Work as part of a team Campers participate in team building exercises to strengthen communication and collaboration with others. Collaborative skills are highly valued in college and in the workplace. 2. Bounce back from hardship and gain resilience Campers are coached through tough situations to handle problems with positive attitudes and to learn how to be part of the solution.

There is not a better way to get to know a person from a different ethnic and cultural background than to share a camp experience. 5. Be more patient and understanding Campers develop empathy and learn to accept others’ points of views when working, playing and living together so closely. 6. Resolve a conflict Campers learn key social skills of negotiation and compromise. 7. Make and keep friends Campers build and gain the social skills to meet new people and to create social networks—in person.

3. Assess risks and examine possible results as a decision maker Campers learn to weigh their options and to make decisions as individuals and as part of a group. They take responsibility for the negative or positive consequences.

8. Be more self-reliant and confident Campers are encouraged to be as independent as possible, to better themselves in a variety of ways and to be proud of who they are.

4. Live with others who are different

9. Be more active Campers enjoy a far more active lifestyle

A Program of Learning, Process & Performance

HOW WILL YOU SPEND YOUR SUMMER?

July 11 – August 14, 2011 An intensive Five-week Theatre Experience for ages 14 to 20 — at the award-winning Lyric Stage Company of Boston in Copley Square! Contact: 617-585-5682 Q lyricstage.com

58 MAY2011

than the school year often allows. Of course, they enjoy different activities such as swimming, climbing and individual and competitive sports. Campers are moving all day long! 10. Become more creative Camp environments foster creativity throughout the day. Group and team building activities require creative thinking and much of camp programming—formal and informal —encourage campers to think and act creatively, whether they’re making jewelry, making music or making up a new game or adventure. Provided by the American Camp Association, New England, the region’s leading source for “all things summer camp.” For more information please visit

ACANewEngland.org, or call 781-5416080. Find them also at Facebook.com/ ACANewEngland.

Find a Camp! Visit bsp’s Virtual Camp Guide at baystateparent.com. Explore local camp offerings with click-through access to camps for more information.

120 Prospect Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420 (978)342-6053 ext 110 www.applewild.org

Applewild invites you to join us! TAKE A LOOK MORNINGS May 5 and June 2 The first Thursday of every month - 9am Take a tour and visit classes, no RSVP needed. Individual tours scheduled daily.

Summer Camp - register now! For more information, go to www.applewild.org or call 978 342-6053 x110

at Devereux

A Rewarding, Therapeutic Camp for Youth with Asperger’s Syndrome, High Functioning Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders

Now Taking Summer Registration FREE Summer Registration if paid in full

West Meadow Woods is a fun ďŹ lled summer day camp program for boys and girls ages 6 to 17 diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder who would beneďŹ t from social skills training, small groups (4 campers for every counselor), structure, and building friendships with a group of peers.

May 3rd, 5th, 10th, 12th•3:30 to 8pm

Campers can participate in any of three sessions

“Come Join The Fun!�

(as many as you choose)

July 11-August 19

or individual weeks within those sessions:

Classes:Tues & Thurs 9, 10, 11am Tues, Weds & Thurs 3:45, 4:45, 5:45pm

Session I: June 27 – July 15 Session II: July 18 – Aug 5 Session III: Aug 8 – Aug 26*

Summer Fun Days Monday & Friday

*(third session is dependent on number of enrollments)

All sessions run Monday – Friday 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

All Ages Welcome

This camp is compliant with regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and licensed by the Rutland Board of Health

For more information please contact the Devereux Admissions Department at 508-886-4746, x.322 or email ma_admissions@devereux.org 60 Miles Road, Rutland, MA 01543

237 River Rd. ★ Rt. 146A ★ Uxbridge, MA

508-278-3220 The Gymnastics Place where learning is fun!

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ELECTIVE ACTIVITY CHOICES: Campers At Birch Hill Choose From Over 50 Activities To Build Their Own

Personalized Schedule! >˜`ĂŠ-ÂŤÂœĂ€ĂŒĂƒĂŠUĂŠ7>ĂŒiÀÊ-ÂŤÂœĂ€ĂŒĂƒĂŠUĂŠ `Ă›iÂ˜ĂŒĂ•Ă€iĂŠUĂŠ ÂœĂ€ĂƒiL>VÂŽĂŠ,ˆ`ˆ˜} ˆ˜iĂŠ Ă€ĂŒĂƒĂŠUĂŠ/iÂ˜Â˜ÂˆĂƒĂŠUĂŠ >˜œiˆ˜}ĂŠUĂŠ Â?ˆ“Lˆ˜}ĂŠUĂŠ*>ÂˆÂ˜ĂŒL>Â?Â?ĂŠUĂŠ ÂœĂŠ >Ă€ĂŒĂƒ ÂœÂ?vĂŠUĂŠ7>ĂŒiĂ€ĂƒÂŽÂˆĂŠUĂŠ >˜ViĂŠUĂŠ<ÂˆÂŤĂŠ ˆ˜iĂŠ ˜`ĂŠ ÂœĂ€it

Full List Of Activities & Photos On Our Website:

WWW.CAMPBIRCHHILL.COM

CAMP BIRCH HILL 42!$)4)/.!, s /6%2.)'(4 35--%2 #!-0 Located in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire "OYS AND 'IRLS !GES Two, Four and Six Week Sessions

/ÂœĂŠ i>ÀÊ ÂœĂ€iĂŠ LÂœĂ•ĂŒĂŠ"ÕÀÊ Ă›i˜ˆ˜}ĂŠ*Ă€Âœ}Ă€>Â“Ăƒ]ĂŠ i>Â?ĂŒÂ…ĂžĂŠ œœ`ĂŠ"ÂŤĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂƒĂŠ ˜`ĂŠ Ă€Âˆi˜`Â?ÞÊ-ĂŒ>vvĂŠ To Schedule A Camp Tour Or Slide Show Contact Us: E-Mail Birch Hill: Summer@Campbirchhill.com Call Our OfďŹ ce: (603) 859-4525 ĂƒÂŽĂŠ LÂœĂ•ĂŒĂŠ"ÕÀÊ/ĂœÂœĂŠ7iiÂŽĂŠ/iiÂ˜ĂŠ `Ă›iÂ˜ĂŒĂ•Ă€iĂŠ*Ă€Âœ}Ă€>“ 7Â…ÂˆĂŒiĂŠ7>ĂŒiÀÊ,>vĂŒÂˆÂ˜}ʇÊ iĂœĂŠ ˆ}Â…ĂŠ,ÂœÂŤiĂƒĂŠ ÂœĂ•Ă€Ăƒi

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SUMMER CLASSES

West Meadow Woods Day Camp

SUMMERCAMPCOUNTDOWN

Mass Audubon Nature Day Camps In Central MA N Helping students do school. Strengthening skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing, handwriting, critical thinking, memory, study skills, and learning. N Helping students navigate their lives. Developing strategies for social interaction, problem solving, executive functioning, organization, and emotional regulation. N Helping families and teachers maximize success. Supporting parents, teachers, and schools through professional consultation and comprehensive speech-language, reading, written expression, and psychotherapy evaluations.

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A unique opportunity to learn about the natural world. Meet new friends and have lots of fun! Specialty sessions such as digital photography, teen adventure trip and woodworking. Experienced staff who provide a safe, educational, and noncompetitive camp environment. Small group nature study. An experience that will last a lifetime!

Mass Audubon

To ďŹ nd out more and to download a camp brochure please check us out at

www.massaudubon.org/camps

Take the whole family to camp this summer in beautiful Waterville Valley, NH – at the former summer home of Curious George authors Margret and H.A. Rey

N Helping students learn through the summer. In our theme-based academic clubs and classes, students may explore the world as ďŹ lm critics, detectives, wizards, zoologists, or even Knights of the Round Table.

Individual and small group intervention as well as multi-sensory, theme-based classes for K-12 students. Speech-language therapy, Occupational therapy, Psychotherapy, Tutoring, and Academic enrichment. Our vision is that all individuals see themselves as whole and capable.

Curious George Cottage Family Adventure Camp July 5-9, 2011 Explore White Mountain National Forest & enjoy fun-ďŹ lled family activities: star gazing, hikes, ďŹ shing, campďŹ res, nature walks, eco-art projects, biking, golďŹ ng, tennis, indoor & outdoor pools, ice skating, boating, chair lift rides & more! Hotel style lodging, all meals & all resort amenities are included in camp fee.

Architects For Learning 160 Gould Street, Needham Heights, MA 02494 781-235-8412 www.architectsforlearning.com Call 603-236-3308 or visit http://TheReyCenter.org for more information. 60 MAY2011

CDL :CGDAA>C<

Early Education and Care Since 1913

children ages 5-10 Camp will run from 7:30am-5:30pm • June 28-Aug 27

www.guildofstagnes.org g

Choose your week(s)

All of our centers are NAEYC accredited • Enrolling children from 4 weeks to 12 years • Center Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. • Breakfast, Lunch and Snack Provided

Enroll now ow for Summer Camp 888.798.4567 8 4567 Center Locations Include Granite St., and Grove St. in Worcester Charlton, Devens, Fitchburg and Gardner Family Care Offices In Devens, Leicester, Whitinsville and Worcester

Experienced, energetic and qualified teachers. Children will enjoy field trips twice a week — Anywhere from Boston to right here in Worcester! Arts & Crafts • Sports Activities • Outdoor Games

<G:6I ;G>:C9H=>EH 111 Park Ave., Worcester, Ma. 01609 508-791-4884

166 Main Street Concord, MA 01742 978.402.2284 concordacademysummercamp.org BAYSTATEPARENT 61

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EASY WAYS TO PAY for Weight Loss Camp BY

Parents searching for a teen weight loss camp have a difficult time turning over their credit card when they see the $5,000 or more tuition rates—are there any ways to make paying for weight loss camp easier? Some weight loss and fitness camps are even priced at $1,000 for just one weekend. But tuition is more than a bill; it’s an investment in a child’s future with lifelong returns. Many families are unaware of the numerous opportunities available to offset the cost of this investment. You can use health insurance,

tara lynne groth, rusty gaechter illustrator pre-tax dollars, loans and scholarships to help pay for weight loss camp.

Health Insurance Partial Reimbursements One way for families to recoup the cost of weight loss camp tuition is through their health insurance providers. Some health insurance companies recognize camps as weight loss treatment centers, or as extended therapy sessions, and offer partial reimbursement. Wellspring Family

Camp, an international weight loss camp, outlines a reimbursement process on their Web site, with qualified families receiving approximately $2,000 back. The savings on camp tuition alone can be the start for health insurance savings in children’s futures. Insurance Agent Brennan Breidenstein of State Farm Insurance affirmed that parents of obese children typically pay 10-15% more than a standard insurance product. Parents may qualify for cheaper insurance policies after camp if weight loss is achieved and maintained at a healthy level recognized

by the insurance provider. Without the disciplined approach to weight loss like a summer camp provides, children may be likely to mature into overweight adults. Additionally, obese children face the risk of not qualifying for policies as they age, according to William Donahoe, Executive Vice President of Columbia, Maryland’s CBIZ - M.T. Donahoe & Associates, LLC, one of the nation’s leading professional services and medical management companies. “Obesity is an indicator of a host of present or near future health conditions, such as diabetes, heart

GIVE THEM THE BEST SUMMER EVER! A day camp experience that’s out of this world!

For girls and boys ages 5 to 15

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Pay with Pre-Tax Dollars Through various flex-savings accounts (FSAs) weight loss programs are reimbursable expenses “if prescribed by a doctor to treat obesity or other medical condition,” according to the Web site of the American Fidelity Assurance Company. Individuals can contribute to an FSA with pre-tax income. Funds from an FSA can be used for medical expenses, prescriptions, vision care and, with certain companies, weight loss programs.

One Monthly Payment The easiest way to pay for weight loss camp may be an affordable monthly payment from a loan. Just like investing in a college education with a student loan, or buying an investment property with a home loan, there are lenders available for weight loss camp. Located in Idaho, Clark Behavioral Health Financing is the only financial solutions company in the therapeutic and treatment service industry. Clark Behavioral offers unsecured (not tied to collateral assets, such as homes) loans with no prepayment penalties. Loan amounts range from $2,000 to $50,000,

and higher amounts in unique cases. Even though the loan process for qualified applicants can be completed in just seven days, from application to funding, parents are encouraged to apply earlier. Being the only “one-stop shop” in such a specialized niche, funding through four lenders and not requiring an application fee produces a flood of inquiries each spring just before summer camp enrollment. Borrowing history, debit-to-income ratios and credit are all considered with each application. Chelsea Dickinson, Marketing Manager with Clark Behavioral, advised, “There is no magic credit score, but it does help if your score is above 680. The market changes all the time, lower scores can get in.” Families should note there are closing costs, which are calculated into the loan amount itself. Dickinson explained that individuals who are not confident in their credit history are often surprised at what funds are available. Dickinson urges anyone to call and explore funding choices, “There’s no obligation and we provide accurate, free information.”

Scholarships Another opportunity to bring down the cost of tuition is through scholarship opportunities. Contact individual camps and speak to the director about scholarships and essay contests. The New York Times featured a story in the summer of 2008 on an essay contest winner who won an eight-week session valued at almost $8,000. A great way for parents to save is to check in with summer camps during the year for moneysaving opportunities. Camps may acquire new sponsors or grants in the off-season and have last minute award opportunities to provide. Families can request to be put on a priority email update or call list so that they have a better chance of being notified. Also inquire about special rate programs that may not be openly advertised. Ira Green, Director of the notfor-profit Camp Shining Stars in Wilson, North Carolina, said, “You wish every child could attend camp for free, but having a high quality, well-maintained

You can use health insurance, pre-tax dollars, loans and scholarships to help pay for weight loss camp.

facility, fun trips, special camp events and specialists in exercise, psychology and nutrition all comes at a high price.” Camp Shining Stars offers a 10% discount to single mothers and hardship cases. This discount would otherwise be unknown unless families directly ask.

A Healthy, Affordable Future The tuition of summer weight loss camp is expensive — even more so in today’s economic recession. However, parents do have financing options and the ability to make it more affordable by taking advantage of the specialized alternatives that exist. Being aware of health insurance reimbursements, the ability to pay through pre-tax dollars from an FSA, loan options and scholarships, is a step closer for parents to realize the dreams of a healthy future for their children. As with all insurance and financial decisions, and with so many unique programs available, parents should consult their own health care providers and financial services advisors to learn about their specific qualifications and what options are open to them. Tara Lynne Groth is a full-time freelance writer. She is the author of How Do You Roo? the first and only guidebook to the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival. She’ll be in Boston on May 3 at 7:30 p.m. signing her book. howdoyouroo.com/tour.html.

We’ve ! Moved Occupational and Speech Therapy

Our Programs Include:

• Individual Occupational and Speech Therapy • Pragmatic Language and Social Groups • Parent and Educator Workshops

Summer Handwriting Camps Modeled after the multisensory Handwriting Without Tears program, we will develop gross and fine motor control, upper body strength, and position awareness through imitation and play. We are offering two age groups: Happy Crayons

Happy Pencils

(Kindergarten Ready)

(1st and 2nd Grade)

Tues. and Thurs., 9-10:30 AM

Tues., Wed., Thurs., 11-12:30 PM

Session 1: July 19-28, 2011 • Session 2: August 2-11, 2011

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disease, kidney disease…so carriers tend to simply deny applicants with morbid obesity.” Investing in a weight loss camp offers children a jumpstart to a healthier lifestyle, as well as a chance to preserve their eligibility for affordable health coverage as an adult.

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Tvnnfs!ZPVUI!Joufotjwf bu!Uif!Dibsmftupxo!Xpsljoh!Uifbufs A 3-week dynamic youth intensive that culminates in a 75-minute production of Othello directed by Jason Bowen. With a focus on language, movement, and voice, ASP company members will work with youth to explore and express the powerful, rich language and heartbreaking story of Othello. There will also be specialty workshops in stage combat. This intensive is suited to all all teens, regardless of experience of with Shakespeare. Suited for ages 14-17. Begins Tuesday, July 5th at 9:00AM Runs Mondays – Friday, 9:00AM – 4:00PM Culminates in a performance of Othello on Monday, July 25th Cost: $1200. (some scholarships available) Please complete application from our website by April 4, 2011 and send to programs@actorsshakespeareproject.org If you have any questions please contact Lori at 617-776-2200 x224

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(OW IS #-3 DIFFERENT THAN OTHER SUMMER PROGRAMS 7E ARE !,, (/23%3 !,, $!9 Century Mill offers a hands-on, interactive approach to learning horsemanship that keeps kids and teens active and engaged. Whether you’re coming to the barn for the very ďŹ rst time, or have been riding for years, there is a CMS Summer Camp Program just for you.

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0ACKAGE $EALS AND %ARLY "IRD 3PECIALS 3EE OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS AND TO SIGN UP WWW CENTURYMILLSTABLES COM s 105 CMR 430.190: This camp has complied with regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and is licensed by the local board of health.

Day Camp at Overlook Farm sign them up for a week that could change the world Day Camp at Overlook Farm is not your regular camp. In five days, your camper will get to experience Heifer International’s work of ending hunger and poverty around the world. They’ll learn all about different cultures while helping out around our farm. In addition to helping milk livestock and harvest vegetables, they’ll get to play games and make arts and crafts. Five-day sessions for children in grades 1–6 begin July 11 and run through August 15. For more information, or to download an application, call (508) 886-2221, visit www.heifer.org/baystate or e-mail overlook.farm@heifer.org.

EXTENDED CARE OPTIONS AVAILABLE BAYSTATEPARENT 65

SUMMERCAMPCOUNTDOWN

COME TO HORSE CAMP!

While you're busy at work, your child is busy at PLA Y !

• Family owned and run • Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Pre-K and Kindergarten Programs • EEC Licensed Teachers • The Letter People Curriculum • Lively Letters Curriculum • Indoor Gym • Sibling Discounts • Optional Lunch Program • CompuChild, Music & Movement, Tumblebus, Lil' Sports and Mad Science programs on site 172 Otis Street (behind Walmart) .ORTHBORO -! s

Now Enrolling for Kindergarten 2011-2012

So much more than piano lessons! Our complete MUSIC program (ages 4 1/2 to 8) includes: Piano Singing Harmony Rhythm

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New Hours: 7:00 AM TO 6:00 PM, 52 weeks a year

Family Fun Day! Rain Or Shine— Festivities Will Be Indoors If Bad Weather

5k Professionally-timed Race/walk Great Games & Prizess

Est 1974

(Limited Spaces Available)

www.skribbles.com

Professionally-timed 1 mile race for 8-10 year olds

L L O N R OW N E

Fun For All Ages!

Dunk Tanks: Come Dunk Your Favorite Teachers!

Guitar Note Reading Ear Training Composition

Worcester

Recorder Ensemble Playing Music Theory Percussion

Westborough

Making Musi Last a LIFETIME! 508-898-3888

childrensmusicacademy.org

THE 8TH ANNUAL SHARON TIMLIN MEMORIAL 5K RACE/WALK TO CURE ALS. SATURDAY, JUNE 18, 2011 ! - s (/0+).4/. ()'( 3#(//, 0RESENTED BY THE (OPKINTON 2UNNING #LUB (ONORED 'UEST -IKE 4IMLIN -," PITCHER All Proceeds Benefit the Angel Fund — An Independent Non-profit Charity Benefiting ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) Research at UMASS Medical Center.

ENTRY FEE Limited to 1800 participants. No race day Registration! $25 - Register by May 19th to guarantee free t-shirt.

KIDS' RACES ! RACE FOR EVERY AGE -INI MARATHON FOR YEAR OLDS Register online or on race day.

KIDgS MILE RACE FOR YEAR OLDS Register online or on race day.

Register online at WWW SHARONTIMLINRACE ORG

Great Rafes

Angel challenge fundraising at WWW FIRSTGIVING COM SHARONTIMLINRACE Or make checks payable to The Angel Fund and mail with entry form to : Timlin Race, 6 Donna Pass, Hopkinton, MA 01748

Silent Auction

First Name____________________________ Last Name___________________________ Street Address______________________________________________________________

Live Band

City/Town__________________________________ State ___________ Zip __________

Face Painting & Crafts

Telephone __________________________________ Age _________ Gender _______ Email ______________________________________________________________________ Club Affiliation __________________________Runner or Walker? _________________ Entry Fee $ __________________________ Add't Donations: $____________________

Sponsored by

66 MAY2011

baystateparent

Sig Required _______________________________________________________________ NO REFUNDS

HOME HEALTH AIDES WANTED!

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Opening Weekend June 4th & 5th, 2011 Open Full Time June 11 thru Labor Day (weather permitting)

Home Staff is seeking trained and certified aides to join our very busy agency. Work is available weekdays, evenings, nights and weekends in Worcester, Gardner, Leominster, Brookfield, Spencer, Springfield, Charlton, Needham, Newton, Framingham, Acton, Milford, Stow, Littleton, Mendon, Southboro, and surrounding areas. Competitive rates and plenty of work. Reliable transportation and one weekend per month availability. Hospice certification a plus!

Please call 508-755-4600 ext 246, ext 332, or ext 562 for more information and/or to set up an appointment for an immediate interview.

520 Northwest Main Street, Douglas, MA

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BAYSTATEPARENT 67

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To advertise call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or email stephaniep@baystateparent.com

BIRTHPROFESSIONAL

EDUCATION

Peaceful Birth and Beyond

MATHTUTOR

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• Maternal Wellness • Labor & Delivery Support Prenatal • Postpartum • Lactation

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WHAT IS PROJECT MAHMA™? Project MAHMA is a coalition of families across North America who stay at home with their kids and earn income by helping others live healthier, better and more independent lives. Shaklee Is What Makes Project MAHMA Different

CertiďŹ ed DONA Doula, CLC peacefulbirthandbeyond@verizon.net Teresa Coyle Airey • 978-833-8240

If you would like more details, contact

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CONSIGNMENT

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MUSICLESSONS

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• Clothes for Baby & Kids • Maternity Wear • Equipment, Toys, Books & MORE!

LACTATIONSUPPORT

Westside Plaza 850 Southbridge Street, Auburn 508-832-0066

Come relax with a cup of tea with your breastfed baby

Pocket a Little Greener! 68 MAY2011

email:kmcquade@cornerstoneacademy.org

Music Together Birth to Five, Suzuki Violin & Guitar (4 yrs+), Musical Theatre, Lessons & Ensembles

www.pakmusic.org

PAINTINGDECORATING

CUSTOM DECORATIVE PAINTING EST. 1994

Open Thursdays from 3-5pm 111 Park Ave. Worcester

www.themilcroom.com Recommended by Pediatricians and run by CertiďŹ ed Lactation Consultants.

We welcome ALL mothers who want to breastfeed their baby.

Accepting Applications: Pre-school — 3 programs A.M. & P.M. Full Day Kindergarten Grade 1 through Grade 8

16 Summer St., Shrewsbury 508-842-1601 www.stmarysparish.org Accredited by the N.E. Assoc. of Schools & Colleges

PRESCHOOLS

SUMMERPROGRAMS

Tour Our Brand New Classrooms! ÂŽ-

LIQUID DISGUISE

â?¤ Peer support, lactation guidance â?¤ Referrals for lactation follow-up care, classes â?¤ On-site resources: baby scale, reference library

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Where the growth & development of each individual child is nurtured

Ɖ (508) 791 - 8159 Ɖ

Keeping the Planet & Your

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Saint Spyridon Preschool

Up the hill from Holy Cross College

www.ShopSmartyPantsConsignment.com

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CLEANING

FREE Estimates References Available Bonded

SCHOOLS

“Making Your World Even More Beautiful - From the Inside Outâ€? FAUX FINISHES • MURALS CHILDREN'S ROOMS PLAY SPACES • CLASS RMS SPECIAL FX • WALLGRAPHIX WALL PAPER REMOVAL FURNITURE & CABINET TREATMENTS DECORATOR’S WELCOME

CONTACT: GARY www.liquidisguise.com

SUMMER PROGRAM AVAILABLE CALL FOR DETAILS

@ Whip-o-Will Stables! Register now for July & August sessions! www.whipowillstables.weebly.com 1(774)452-5062

LIMITED OPENINGS! Enrolling now for 2011/2012 school year New extended day options!

Call for Details (508)752-5354 102 Russell Street, Worcester j.ward@spyridoncathedral.org

“Neigh & Play� Summer Horse Program

Ages 7-17 years old $110 per week

Dudley, Ma 01571

To advertise call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or email stephaniep@ baystateparent.com

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THERAPEUTICRIDING

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HELP WANTED

Tutoring Service Available for Grades K-6

Enriching the lives of special needs children and adults through equine assisted activities and therapy.

Surrogate Mothers Needed

Currently accepting participants into our therapeutic riding program.

Be part of a miracle The rewards are more than financial

A Massachusetts Not-For-Profit Corporation

Seeking women 21-43 non-smoker with healthy pregnancy history

888-363-9457

www.reproductivepossibilities.com

TUTORING

Wild Hearts Therapeutic Equestrian Program www.wildheartstherapeutic.org jlovely@wildheartstherapeutic.org 978.578.4438 Located in the Massachusetts South Shore Area

5 Oak Avenue • Northboro, MA 01532 508 351-9976 www.cornerstoneacademy.org email:kmcquade@cornerstoneacademy.org

The Knowledge

Quest

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TUTORING -ATH s 2EADING s 7RITING 3TUDY 3KILLS s 3!4 0REP !LGEBRA 7ORKSHOPS

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623 Chandler Street Tatnuck Square, Worcester /iÂ?\ĂŠxän‡Ç™Ç‡xäxäĂŠUĂŠ >Ă?\ĂŠxän‡Ç™Ç‡xäxÂŁĂŠ www.theknowledgequest.com

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508-358-1614

www.franfriedman.com

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Party Tips Now Online! You can now get and share birthday party tips at baystateparent.com. Click “Captured� anywhere on the site and upload a photo or video of a great party you’ve had. Your caption is actually a little “story� that can inspire another family planning a party. You can also post a party question or idea on our Mom’s Discussion Board. Check out what’s already there!

C Our Original Singing Princess has enchanted children since 1994 C Costume Characters w/ Karaoke, games, face painting and balloon sculpture

Kids all love the silliness of my interactive, high energy, and musical shows! Come join the fun! My silly sense of humor and rythmic style will soon have you and your kids giggling, wiggling, dancing, and singing with delight.

Mike Slattery

Copacabana Entertainment 508.853.4257 www.copacabanaent.com

Children’s Entertainment * Songs * Puppets * Concerts * Schools

* Magic * Parties

978-779-6789 mikethemusicman.com

Beauty and the Feast Tons of Bricks Tons of Fun

Spencer Marks Photography specializing in parties, portraits & sporting events

978.634.1135 smarksphotography.com sam@smarksphotography.com

Ride the train to our Children’s Play Area and

your private party room.

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LEGOÂŽ Themed Birthday Parties for all ages. wwww.brickapalooza.com Check our website for current class offerings, summer camp offerings and drop-in play times.

Professional Chefs Sean & Eliana McCabe bring you a cutting edge culinary experience.

Specialities include Sushi parties, instructonal lessons for kids & adults.

164 Westford Rd. Tyngsboro MA 01879 978-649-2654

For More Information Call

508.329.1416 Westboro

Birthday/ Party Room Make your birthday an all-day splash “All Live� Insects, Small Reptiles & Animals

The Coolest Party EVER! There’s Nothing Else Like It. Fordshometown.com 1-800-649-9992

Invite your guests & we’ll do the rest!

Central Mass’s only dedicated Climbing Facility! Sign up now for our Week Long Summer Camp Programs • 14,000 square feet of amazing climbing walls • 60 different top rope stations • Climbing walls from 15 - 40 feet high! • Massive lead arch, and super long overhangs! • Separate climbing wall just for kids and parents • Classes for beginners: lead and top rope belaying • Rentals and a retail shop for climbing gear • Lounge area, w/ free wiďŹ â€˘ A large bouldering area, with top-outs

Call Today To Reserve Your Party Date!

508-476-2060 breezysummer.com

508-852-ROCK • 299 Barber Ave. Worcester, (Across the street from the Higgins Armory, near Sam’s Club, at the 190/290 interchange)

centralrockgym.com

To advertise, call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or email stephaniep@baystateparent.com 70 MAY2011

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Storytelling fun for Birthday Parties, Schools, Daycare Centers, Library Programs, Special Events and TV Featuring: • Original & Classic Stories • Puppets, Props and Surprises For Bookings and Info Call: 617-713-4349 E-mail: BigJoe@BigJoe.com Visit me on the web at: www.BigJoe.com

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Dinosaur Adventures

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Have a Birthday Coming Up?

See Dinosaur skulls, T-Rex teeth and foot prints, along with today’s living dinosaurs such as Crocodile, monitor lizard, turtle, bird and scorpion.

Book your party now

Great fun and learning for any dinosaur enthusiast! *This is a traveling only presentation

Call today or visit our website for more info: 781-352-2494 www.mini-athletes.com 290 Vanderbilt Ave. Norwood

www.animaladventures.net 978-779-8988

New England’s #1 Traveling Animal Show

On your child’s birthday, why not... • save the newspaper every year to create a time capsule.

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• decorate his/her door with crepe paper so your child can jump through it in the morning. • buy your child flowers, one for every year.

Traveling Farm Animals for your Party or Event! Year Round • Inside or Out Fun & Educational Baby Animal Parties, Theme Parties, Living Nativities, Petting Zoos, Animals for Therapy & more!

978-297-1221 animalcraze@ymail.com www.animalcraze.info

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• Schools • Camps • All occasions Fully Licensed & Insured Education Center Open Year Round!

www.animaladventures.net 978-779-8988

To advertise, call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or email stephaniep@ baystateparent.com

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Offering Beading, Mosaics, Stuff-Your-Own Animals, Paint Me Tees, Silver Clay and PaintYour-Own Pottery Parties Birthdays Bar/Bat Mitzvahs Weddings/Showers Graduations Proms Dances Fundraisers Holiday/Business

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BYO CDs, Cake, Soda, Pizza Etc. Offering 2 Large Private Party Rooms

Rt. 9 (next to White City East), Shrewsbury • 508-798-9950 • www.claytimestudio.com

To advertise, call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or email stephaniep@baystateparent.com BAYSTATEPARENT 71

DogWatch

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here is something for everyone. And most of our products can be personalized to make your own unique statement. U Like it? Place an order! www.31byangela.com U Love it? Book a party to get your wish list for FREE!

Award winning dog training by Picture Perfect Pets

800-723-DOGS (3647) www.dogwatchsystems.com info@dogwatchsystems.com

72 MAY2011

Small group classes - Arlington, MA Private lessons by Bette Yip Greater Boston

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U Want it all? Join my team to get a great discount and make an extra $150+ by just working 1 night a week!

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sk me how to earn 25% for your fundraiser!

Thirty-One By Angela Bergeron 978-833-1313 angela@31byangela.com www.31byangela.com

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BSP10 *Offer only valid on new fully installed system with Canine Fence. Previous purchases excluded. Not valid with LI Gold Package. Cannot be combined with other offers. Discount applied before taxes. Price and availability subject to change without notice. Non transferrable. Offer valid through 6/30/11. Certain restrictions apply. ©2011 Canine Fence. Invisible Fence and Computer Collar are registered trademarks of Invisible Fence, Inc. All rights reserved.

BAYSTATEPARENT 73

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GIVEAWAYS Sunny size 4T eyelet dress available at Marshalls. For more information, visit www.MarshallsOnline.com.

CLASSIFIEDS Planning a summer vacation without having the money to pay for it? Does your budget include a savings plan? Meet with the Budget Coach and take charge of your money now!

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Retractable Driveway Guard www.kidkusion.com; 800-845-9236 valued at $125 Ear Band-It® headband & Putty Buddies® ear plugs www.earbandit.com Ear Band-It® $13.95 & Facebook fan page at Putty Buddies® $1.50 $14.95 for combo pack. www.facebook.com/earbandit PishPosh Carryall www.pishposhmommy.com valued at $44.99

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Enter to win one of these prizes at baystateparent.com. 74 MAY2011

www.BeHealthyBeHome.com FREE That’s right start your own business without having to pay for it, or HOST a show and receive 30%, or hold a FUNDRAISER and receive 50% for your organization.

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ADVERTISERS’DIRECTORY A Place to Grow...................................................... 67 Actors Shakespeare Project....................................... 64 Advanced Water Quality Systems, Inc. ....................... 50 Adventure Bootcamp ............................................... 50 American Cancer Society .......................................... 38,39 Animal Shelter Inc./Whisker Walk ............................ 72 Appalachian Mountain Club ...................................... 55 Applewild School .................................................... 58 Architects for Learning ............................................. 60 Atlantis Dental........................................................ 11 Attorney James Connors .......................................... 18 Backyard Adventures ............................................... 50 Barrett Family Wellness ........................................... 63 Boston Badminton .................................................. 52 Breezy Picnic Grounds ............................................. 67 Camp Birch Hill....................................................... 59 Camp Invention ...................................................... 53 Camp Maplewood................................................... 53 Camp Quinebarge ................................................... 63 Canine Fence ......................................................... 73 Century Mill Stables ................................................ 65 Chapel Hill - Chauncy Hall School .............................. 64 Charter .................................................................. 76 Chess Camp ........................................................... 65 Children’s Celtic Camp ............................................. 54 Children’s Dentists of Worcester, LLC .......................... 35 Children’s Garden.................................................... 12 Children’s Music Academy ........................................ 66 Claytime................................................................ 21 Coco Key Water Resort ............................................ 23 Concord Academy ................................................... 61 Cornerstone Academy .............................................. 3,64 Cutie Patutie’s ........................................................ 72 Danforth Museum of Art .......................................... 53 Davis Farmland ...................................................... 5 Devereux Therapeutic Foster Care ............................. 25,59 Dog Watch Systems ................................................ 72 Dr. Bruce Fieldman ................................................. 7 Dr. Mel-Pediatric Dentistry ........................................ 23 Eagle Hill School..................................................... 54 Ecotarium .............................................................. 9 Elite Dance Academy ............................................... 52 Favreau Forestry..................................................... 20 Fidelity .................................................................. 2 First Friends Daycare Inc .......................................... 61 Fruitlands Museum ................................................. 57 God’s Little Children Preschool .................................. 53 Grotonwood/Oceanwood......................................... 57 Guild Of St. Agnes Daycare ...................................... 61 Gymboree.............................................................. 20 Gymnastics Place .................................................... 59 H&H Dance ........................................................... 9 Hanover Theatre ..................................................... 75 HealthSource ......................................................... 45

Heifer International Project ....................................... 65 Home Staff ............................................................ 67 Honey Farms ......................................................... 15 iParty Retail Stores Corp. ......................................... 25 Irish Cultural Centre................................................. 54 Jordan’s Furniture ................................................... 13 Judge Baker Children’s Center .................................. 57 Lego Your Mind ...................................................... 52 Lindiana’s School of Dance....................................... 19 Margret and H.A. Rey Center .................................... 60 Maplewood Summer Day Camp................................ 53 Mass Audubon Society ............................................ 60 McDonald’s Corporation ........................................... 69 Mothers and Company ............................................ 47 Next Generation Children’s Center ............................. 11 Pakachoag Community Music ................................... 53 Pan Mass Challenge Kids Ride Shrewsbury ................. 31 Panera Bread ......................................................... 24 Parenting Solutions ................................................. 15 Peace Tree Apparel.................................................. 33 Picture Perfect Pets ................................................. 72 Plimoth Plantation .................................................. 54 Pro Athletics All-Stars ............................................... 57 Purity Spring Resort ................................................ 4 Ready Set Sew ...................................................... 53 Riverbend Montessori .............................................. 4 Rye Airfield ............................................................ 15 Seeking Sitters ....................................................... 37 Sharon Timlin memorial 5K ...................................... 66 Shrewsbury Montessori School ................................. 9 Simon Malls........................................................... 5 Skribbles Learning Center......................................... 66 Southwick’s Zoo ..................................................... 24 Spirit of Wellness.................................................... 33 Summer Fenn/The Fenn School ............................... 62 Technique Swim Camp ............................................ 53 The Brighton School ................................................ 21 The Canine Fence Co............................................... 73 The Children’s Closet ............................................... 50 The Lyric Stage Company of Boston .......................... 58 The Miller Method/Language & Cognitive Develop Ctr.... 13 UMass Child & Adolescent Psychiatry ........................ 11 WPI Camp ............................................................. 10 Wachusett Theatre Company .................................... 56 Wayside Racquet & Swim Club................................. 19 West End Creamery ................................................ 10 Wheelock College Theatre ........................................ 61 Wifesavers ............................................................. 20 Womens Health of Central Mass ............................... 29 Worcester Academy of Music .................................... 52 Worcester JCC ........................................................ 11,47 YMCA-Metrowest .................................................... 57 YWCA of Central Massachusetts ................................ 52

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76 MAY2011

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