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NOVEMBER 2014

CREATIVE GROUP SEEKS WESTERN MASS STUDENTS HAVE THE BEST PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCE EVER BRIGHT NIGHTS TURNS 20

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WESTERN MA EDITION

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table of contents NOVEMBER 2014 VOLUME 1

NUMBER 9

things we learned

while making the november issue

Springfield’s Parade of the Big Balloons has one attraction that the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will never get. Learn the answer on page 17.

It’s nearly the end of 2014 and glass bottle milk sales are up at Atkins Farms in Amherst. That’s a fact that makes co-owner Harold Gould say, “Imagine that!” Go inside their many other sustainable living practices on page 24.

There are currently 2,438 Massachusetts children in foster care waiting for forever homes, the majority between the ages of 6 and 12. Head to page 28 to learn how furniture powerhouse Jordan’s longstanding partnership with adoption officials has changed the lives of hundreds of families across the state.

Our Holiday Featured Articles

A Vegan Thanksgiving: Celebration Not Deprivation

DISHIN’ WITH THE DIETITIAN: Is Frozen as Good as Fresh?

RIPE BITES: Turkey Talk: Take Leftovers Beyond a Sandwich

4 NOVEMBER2014 5

8 17 20 22

Turkey Trots: A (Ful)filling Family Thanksgiving Tradition Bright Nights Turns 20 Create a Fantastic Holiday Card: 4 Tips from the Pros Dress Up Your Table With a Fun, New Tradition

in every issue 5 5 6 6 10

WELCOME: A Letter from Our Editor

OUT & ABOUT: November Calendar of Family Events

18 28

LET’S GO: Family Holiday Happenings

30 30

NOVEMBER’S CHILD: Meet Timothy

OUR NOVEMBER FAVORITES: Facts, Finds and Freebies

TAKE 8: Meet children’s musician Nick Deysher

MEET OUR SPECIAL GUEST: Cover Model Mckenna MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS bsp ONLINE WOMEN’S HEALTH: Holiday Stress: Practical Tips for Worrying Less and Enjoying More

FINALLY FOREVER: Inside Jordan’s 16-Year Adoption Initiative

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS: Area Adoption Events

features

Innovation Program Seeks Creative, Inquisitive Western Mass. Kids

Groceries Go Green: Inside Atkins Farms’ Green Commitment

How to Have the Best Parent-Teacher Conference Ever

advertising directories

35 35 37

DANCE, GYM & ENRICHMENT PRESCHOOL & CHILD CARE HEALTHY KIDS & FAMILY CONSIGNMENT CORNER ADVERTISER’S DIRECTORY

meet team

baystateparent

welcome to

baystateparent

I don’t remember much about my early childhood, but one memory that stands out clear among the haze is the day my parents picked up my brother from his foster family and brought him home with us for good. I can still feel the anticipation, waiting with my grandmother, and running when I heard the screen door open, only to be disappointed that it was just the mailman. But soon my parents were home, carrying a fair, blueeyed, 6-week-old, the pale green terrycloth onesie far too big for his small frame. Now 38 years later, I can still feel that happy day as if it was this morning, and it’s a lovely memory that every foster child, prospective adoptive sibling and parent

deserves. That’s why I so enjoyed interviewing Eliot Tatelman – the Eliot – of Jordan’s Furniture. We talked about his company’s longstanding partnership with state adoption officials and how it has paid off for hundreds of families and children throughout Massachusetts. Read the story on page 28. November is National Adoption Month, but it’s also well-known for a certain food-related holiday, one that is never a favorite if you’re a turkey. However, the birds do have allies in those who enjoy a meatless Thanksgiving. I spoke with a pair of vegan families who will enjoy another delicious, diverse holiday, including one family that rescued two turkeys this past year and will feed them a special meal on November 27! Warning: The article will make you hungry, but it’s worth it — have a read on page 31. In addition to a big family meal, the end of November is steeped in tradition, which for many of us includes watching the Parade

of the Big Balloons the day after Turkey Day and/or a trip to Forest Park to see the awesome sight that is Bright Nights, which turns 20 this year. Amanda Roberge got the inside scoop on both holiday events and uncovered a series of facts that will surprise even the veteran visitor. Read her story on page 17. And if you’ve visited Atkins Farm this fall for seasonal treats or holiday fare, there’s far more going on beyond delicious food. Amanda Collins examines the farm’s strong commitment to sustainable living that is paying off in expected – and unexpected – ways. Turn to page 24 and find out what is surprising Atkins Co-Owner Harold Gould. Here’s wishing you a healthy, happy Thanksgiving filled with friends and family. And remember, there is always room for pumpkin pie.

M e li ss a

What's the best thing about being 6? "Being able to ride the big roller coasters now that I am older." If you could have any pet in the world, what would it be? "A dolphin or a horse.” What is your favorite subject in school? “Science.”

creative director PAULA MONETTE ETHIER 508-865-7070 ext. 221 pethier@holdenlandmark.com senior graphic designer STEPHANIE MALLARD 508-865-7070 design@baystateparent.com

advertising director of sales REGINA STILLINGS 508-865-7070 ext. 210 regina@baystateparent.com western mass sales manager JESSICA O’MALLEY 413-437-4673 jessica@baystateparent.com multi-media account executive DONNA TYBURSKI 413-530-7187 donna@baystateparent.com

In Association With advertising director BETH BAKER 413-283-8393 ext. 245 bbaker@turley.com presidents KIRK and LAURIE DAVIS copy editor BRYAN ETHIER

photographers CHRISSY COSTIGAN STEVEN KING ASHLEY VASSALLO

• Over 50,000 readers • 25,000 copies distributed monthly • Find us in ALL Big Y stores PLUS 400 other locations

When you're not in school, what do you like to do? "I love playing with my mommy and my friends. I also love doing gymnastics, soccer, skiing and dance."

• distribution manager TOM SIGNA 508-865-7070 ext. 112 tsigna@holdenlandmark.com

Tell us the most fun thing about modeling. "This was my first time but it was fun to smile and laugh with Miss Ashley the whole time." What do you want to be when you grow up? "A vet for dolphins."

creative editor in chief MELISSA SHAW 508-865-7070 ext. 201 editor@baystateparent.com

Melissa Shaw, editor

Mckenna Our cover model this month is Mckenna of East Longmeadow, who just turned 6. The busy kindergartener took a break to share some fun facts with baystateparent readers.

publisher KIRK DAVIS

baystateparent is published monthly with a main office at 22 West Street, Millbury, MA 01527 cover photo

Ashley Vassallo PHOTOGRAPHY

www.baystateparent.com

josie and sailor photography BAYSTATEPARENTWEST 4 5

Meet Our November Contributors Western Mass. native Amanda Collins is a writer and editor who grew up in Belchertown and now resides in Sturbridge. She is the proud aunt of six nieces and nephews, and is the editor of baystateparent's sister publication, The Millbury-Sutton Chronicle. In Groceries Go Green on page 24, she takes at look at fall favorite Atkins Farm’s extensive commitment to sutainable living. baystateparent Creative Director Paula Monette Ethier has been with us since Day 1 and is responsible for our award-winning design and gorgeous covers. On page 22’s Dress Up Your Holiday Table With a Fun, New Tradition, Paula walks us through two classic, timeless, fun – and fast – projects she created for you to enjoy with your family.

online

bsp west

When not on the job as chief editor of a business publication serving security and risk professionals, Joan Goodchild is posting to her Cyber Savvy Mom blog at baystateparent.com and is now joining us in print! This month, the mother of two got professional photographers from across the state to share their secrets for taking a great family photo. The shooters even share an easy way to get your dog in on the action! Get the inside scoop in Creating a Fantastic Holiday Card on page 20.

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Big news this month: We’ve spun off this West edition into its own online world, which means baystateparent West bloggers, news, events and contests will be available exclusively to you. Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/baystateparentwestmagazine And follow us on Twitter: @bspwestmagazine It’s a great way for us to keep in touch and keep you up to date on the latest news and events. It’s also an easy way for you to win some fantastic prizes – pop-up giveaways and those featured in our monthly Favorites Calendar. You are familiar with that treasure trove of gifts, right? OK, turn to page 36 right now and check out the goodies up for grabs this month, including: • A $130 inclined sleeper • A product that ensures you never lose your cell phone again • A holiday book that will become a beloved family tradition.

Writer Gary L. Kelley tackles a topic that’s news you can use: Keeping Holiday Stress Under Control. On page 10, he gets experts to weigh in on a priority that’s higher than “holiday fun,” and also speaks with parents on how they’ll handle seasonal challenges such as spending budgets, gift giving, shopping, gathering extended family in one place and much more. Blogger, writer, mom of four and (phew!) runner Trish Reske talks to families who enjoy a little activity before their big meal on page 8’s Turkey Trots: A (Ful)filling Family Thanksgiving Tradition. She checks in with families across the state that have made Thanksgiving morning races a favorite part of their holiday. Make sure you check out our sampling of area races in which you can participate. If you’re looking for something to do before – and after – Thanksgiving, writer Amanda Roberge has you covered. In Bright Nights Turns 20, she takes a behind-the-scenes look at the legendary attraction, which opens for the season the night before Thanksgiving. Amanda also spoke with the folks who run Parade of the Big Balloons, a Black Friday tradition for thousands of families. Even if you visit either attraction every year, you’ll learn new, fun facts about both in this interesting article.

Stay in touch with us online everyday, and you’ll get the jump on entering to win those prizes, along with many other fun books, DVDs, gear and more than crosses our desk.

Meet up with us online, we want to hear from you!

innovation program seeks

CREATIVE, INQUISITIVE WESTERN MASS. KIDS by Melissa Shaw program that promotes problemsolving, creativity, collaboration and teamwork. At the beginning of the season (usually also the beginning of the school year), teams of up to seven children choose one of six themed Challenges.

A SAMPLE OF THIS YEAR’S INCLUDE: • Technical: Build a creature that uses technical methods to perform team-chosen actions. • Scientific: Design and construct an incredible sound machine that produces two different sounds. • Fine Arts: Present a team-created fairy tale about a character that faces and deals with a phobia.

estination Imagination organizers are looking for a few good kids in Western Massachusetts. In fact, they want far more than a few to join their critical-thinking, problem-solving, creative-minded, team-building adventure. State program officials want to see as many new teams as possible sprout up throughout the under-represented area, providing a program parents and teachers say will benefit local children in more ways than they can imagine. “They become different kids,” says David Grout, a fifth-grade teacher at Gill Elementary and coordinator of the school’s six DI teams. “They’re more independent, more personable. They are not afraid of what may seem hard or difficult, and it just gets better and better every single year.” Formed in 1999, Destination Imagination is a non-profit, allvolunteer, competitive innovation

• Structural: Design and build the lightest structure possible that continues to support the weight of the pressure board while parts of the structure are removed. • Improvisational: Create three independent improvisational sketches. • Service Learning: Use the creative process to identify, design and carry out a project that addresses at least one real community need. • Early Learning (K-2): Construct an animal and its habitat in 3-D, including moving parts on both. Once a team decides on its Challenge, they traditionally meet weekly to devise their solution, using only the materials specified and within specific rules. Each team has an adult Team Manager, who acts as a facilitator, but is prohibited from helping the students in any way. “The kids are doing everything in the Challenge. [Adults] can’t interfere and tell the students what

to do,” says Jude Porth of Monson, co-director of the program’s Region 2, which encompasses Western Massachusetts. “We guide but we can’t help,” Grout adds. “If they want to saw a piece of wood, they have to learn how to saw a piece of wood. We can’t saw it for them.” Teams can be formed with students in any grade and compete at the state tournament in February within their own level: Rising Stars (K-2, who are not judged); Elementary (3-5); Middle (6-8); and Secondary (9-12). “You will not believe what these kids come up with to solve problems,” says Porth. “They’re amazing.” And she would know, as she’s been volunteering with DI for 16 years, beginning when her now-adult daughter competed. “It’s really life changing. It makes them grow in learning creatively,” she notes, adding it’s also an outlet for children who have creative or scientific talents or interests that may be underutilized in today’s classroom. According to Grout, DI delivers “everything the 21st century education system doesn’t provide.” “Now it’s all about test scores. We’re seeing a lack of guided inquiry, lack of discovery, lack of passion, lack of independence. There’s such a stress on grades,” he adds. “DI allows them to learn how to be learners without any adult interference.” Meredith Ramsey of Holden has had two children compete on DI teams and says the skills students learn will directly benefit them in their future careers. “They get exposed to doing presentations in front of a large group and have that uncomfortable feeling about that go away; they’re having a lot of fun,” she says. “They get to learn how to be part of a team. The more kids are exposed to group work and team effort, the more it will help them in the future, in how they problem solve.” A member of DI teams in high

school and college, Grout jumped at the chance to start a team when he started teaching in Gill. Personally, his student involvement provided benefits still valuable today. “I didn’t know who I was as a person until I did DI,” he says. “I actually had interests I didn’t have before. It sort of started changing my life; it’s only later you can reflect on it. It changes your entire view of the world and sets you up for knowing anything is possible and knowing you can build anything, you can learn anything that there are no limits to what you can accomplish. You just have to learn how get there.” Porth and Grout agree that while students go into the year focused on solving a problem, they emerge with impressive skills that will serve them well into adulthood. “It could be anything from ‘I can work as a team,’ ‘I can communicate with others,’ ‘I know how to solve group disagreements,’” he says. “When you get in the working world, you can’t storm off or yell or fight to solve a problem, you need to actually sit down and have a conversation and figure out a way to get past this barrier, which [DI] teams have to do. If there’s an issue, if there’s a disagreement, the adult can’t jump in and say, ‘You know what, this person’s right, let’s go with this idea.’ The team has to decide that.” Last year – Gill Elementary’s inaugural season – they had enough interest to field five teams. This year they have six, with more than half of the school’s fourth through sixth graders participating. “This is something I knew my community needed as soon as I started teaching here – so creative, so arts-minded. The population totally needed a program like this,” he says. Schools or parents interested in forming or volunteering with a team can find more information at the Massachusetts Destination Imagine site: madikids.org.

BAYSTATEPARENTWEST 6 7

Turkey Trots:

A (ful)filling family Thanksgiving tradition By Trish Reske

hen Jane Lizotte of Shrewsbury begins her Thanksgiving morning, she won’t be in the kitchen preparing a turkey. Instead, the Shrewsbury Middle School principal will be preparing for Turkey Trot for the Memory, a community race started by Lizotte and her family in memory of her late father, Francis P. O’Connor, a Massachusetts Supreme Court Justice. Now in its fourth year, Turkey Trot for the Memory 5-miler and 2-mile fun run raises funds for the Alzheimer’s Association MA/NH Chapter. Lizotte is one of 10 O’Connor children, and her extended family includes more than 31 nieces and nephews, many of whom volunteer their time at the race or participate in the event on

8 NOVEMBER2014 9

Thanksgiving Day. Each year, the race has grown in both the number of participants and the funds raised for charity. In 2014, it drew nearly 1,000 runners and walkers, and donated $16,000 to The Alzheimer’s Association. “We continue to be amazed at the throngs of people who come out to volunteer, participate and contribute to the race proceeds,” Lizotte says. “There are no words to describe the feeling I get when I approach the Shrewsbury Town Common on Thanksgiving morning and see hundreds of people gathered.” Across the country, turkey trots are taking off – and are fast becoming a new Thanksgiving tradition for some families. According to Athlinks, a social networking site that tracks races across the country, the number of turkey trots grew 50% from 2010 through 2012. There are more kids on the chilly courses as well: Participants age 14 and younger nearly doubled in the same timeframe. The most popular turkey trot in Massachusetts is the Feaster Five Road Race in Andover. The decadesold race draws more than 10,000 participants for the 5-mile, 5K and kids’ fun runs. Finishers feast on apple pie, and kids under 12 can participate at family-friendly registration prices. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, turkey trots such as the Feaster Five and Turkey Trot for the Memory benefit

local or state-based charities. Prize money is generally not the draw for participants – but rather a prize turkey, a long-sleeve race shirt, goodies like pie and mugs, and giving to community-based causes. “The focus is to attract people of all ages and abilities to want to give of themselves so others may have better lives as a result of their efforts. That is our mission,” Lizotte says. Rich Allen, owner of PR Running in Westborough, has personally seen a growing number of customers in his store participate in turkey trots. “There’s a genuine rise in excitement when we have customers talking about a turkey trot,” he says. Allen, who has run the Thanksgiving Day-held Whitin 5 in Whitinsville, along with his wife Jess, believes that the social aspect and noncompetitiveness of turkey trots attract a lot of new runners. “For many, this is the one time of year in which they will be pinning a bib number on their shirt,” he says. The first-time enthusiasm of completing a turkey trot was what got Eric Loizeaux of Worcester out the door on Thanksgiving Day three years ago for the Holden Road Race, which began in 2011 as a re-birth of the Wachusett Fitness Turkey Trot under a volunteer-led group from Fellowship Church in Holden. Eric’s wife Sarah and three daughters Mercy (9), Faith (8), and Hope (6) have participated in the race, and

all will be at the start line again this Thanksgiving morning. “It’s become a family tradition for us,” Loizeaux says. “We love supporting the community, it gives the girls something to look forward to, and it instills good healthy habits for our kids. It’s just an all-around great thing for us to do together,” he says. Like other turkey trots, the Holden Road Race has rapidly grown in both size and community impact over three short years. The first year, the race had more than 800 runners and provided more than $14,000 to the Wachusett Food Pantry. Last year, the Holden Road Race hosted 1,200 participants and donated nearly $30,000 in total to four local charities – representing more than 90% of registration fees collected. Loizeaux says that the race has become “a badge of honor” for Holden: “It’s not an easy 5K. It’s cold, it’s chilly, but everyone comes out, whether to run or cheer. The sponsors love being part of the event because they are part of the community.” And, it’s gotten the Loizeaux girls, among many others, into the sport of running. “My daughters love running now,” he says. “This race started it all for us.” Not every turkey trot is run on Thanksgiving Day, and some are longer distances. Jody Trembley of Palmer is planning to burn off some

holiday-consumed calories when she runs the Talking Turkey Trot 6-mile Cross-Country Race in Holyoke, held the Saturday after Thanksgiving. While Trembley’s younger son Ethan (11) has run two 5Ks with his mom, Jody will be running solo for the longer distance. “I love the energy of this race,” says Trembley, who began running at age 39. “It doesn’t matter how fast or slow you are – runners love to encourage each other. It makes me feel accomplished and thankful I can run.” Trembley loves that her son now joins her in races. “It’s cool Ethan wants to run with me,” she says. “Maybe he’ll run with his kids someday.” Family-friendly road races and turkey trots have created an ideal environment for parents and kids to share fitness, fun, and community. And for some families, Thanksgiving starts not around a table, but amidst throng of runners on the town green. “It can be like a family reunion when

you go back year after year to the same race,” Allen says. “Our kids, Nate and Meg, are now at the point where they expect to be there and even know many of the runners. It’s actually foreign for our family to think about Thanksgiving Day without going to a race first thing in the morning.” Families and volunteers who dedicate themselves to organizing and running a turkey trot still make time to sit down and enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving feast. Like organizing a race, it takes teamwork to pull it off, according to Lizotte. “Everyone in our family brings plenty of food and beverages to share – the best way to ‘build’ our dinner,” she says. Her family is continually amazed at the success of Turkey Trot for the Memory, the generosity of people, and the ability to collectively “be part of the solution to end Alzheimer’s disease.” “Our children say, ‘Papa would be so proud!’” she says. “What better way to spend Thanksgiving?”

Turkey Trots: They’re for walkers, too! Stuffing the Pantry 5K, East Longmeadow Run or 2-mile walk Thursday, Nov. 27, 8 a.m. stuffingthepantry.org WMAC Turkey Trot, Adams 5K run, Thursday, Nov. 27, 9:30 a.m. runwmac.com

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At Atkins Market, it’s not just our shirts that are GREEN! Things are looking greener at Atkins Farms and we’re not just talking about green beans, asparagus or spinach! We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint. Visit atkinsfarms.com to find out more about our behind the scenes green business practices.

1150 West Street

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Ted Turkey Trot, Fiskdale 10K, 5K run or 5K walk Sunday, Nov. 30, 9:30 a.m. Turkey Trot 5K, Longmeadow Saturday, Nov. 29, 11a.m. 5K, 2-mile walk and kids fun run wolfswamp.org Jolly Jaunt, Amherst 5K run, 1M walk Saturday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m. specialolympicsma.org

Free aDmISSIoN

November is a great month for Massachusetts runners - and walkers. Many 5Ks welcome walkers, who get a race shirt, bin on a bib and enjoy just like the running crowd. It’s a great option if you’d like to participate but don’t want to run. Here’s just a sample of the many November road races throughout the area over the entire month. Registration and information can be found at running sites such as coolrunning.com or event Web sites. Fall Frenzy 5K, Belchertown 5K run or walk, Sunday, Nov. 9, 9 a.m. 5K Turkey Trot, Sturbridge 5K run, Saturday, Nov. 22. 10 a.m. botpp.org Y Run for Women and Girls, Springfield 10K run, Saturday, Nov. 22. 10 a.m. yrunforwomen.org

The Original Country Market where old-time customer service is an every day treat! Come experience the difference!

e Book F

November 15 9 am – 4 pm

centralmasschildrensbookfestival.org

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women’s health

HOLIDAY STRESS: Practical tips for worrying less and enjoying more by Gary Kelley

Describe your holidays. Are your holiday memories scenes right out of a Norman Rockwell portrait? Strolls down the walk singing Christmas carols, sights of happy people bustling about in merriment, and the slightest hint of cold nipping at your nose as you enjoy the unique and welcoming tastes of the season. Or are your memories more of logistical nightmares? Driving between family homes in blizzardlike conditions, gulping down quick meals as you get to the next event with concern over: • Everyone getting along. • Food preparation of entrees/sides/ desserts cooked only once a year. • Gifts….and their size, color, features and cost. The holidays can be stressful; no one knows this better than parents. Dr. Charles Wolfson, a psychologist at Active Counseling Associates in Westborough, had one overarching message when it comes to avoiding holiday pressure: “Preserving the most important relationships around you is far more important than any holiday ‘fun’ you're trying to have.” Spending quality time with people, whether folks you see daily or only once a year at the holiday, is the key to relationships. When completely focused on a task, and the task doesn’t go perfectly, tempers can surface, he notes. And when this happens, people need to remember why they are getting together. 10 NOVEMBER2014 11

The objective is spending time with the special people in our lives. People should not fray relationships over a contrived event or task intended to bring friends and family together, “whether it's putting up decorations, attending gatherings or baking a particular goodie.” April Hatfield of Florence shared techniques for helping her family look forward to holidays with her young daughter. First, she tries to stay out of the stores by shopping extensively online. “Mall shopping is too crazy for me,” she says. “This year I am putting together an Amazon Wish List and an overall shopping list for my daughter.” She’s also very aware of how the holidays can drain family funds, creating an unpleasant lingering holiday memory: “I'm going to try to stick to a budget this year, as well.” One concern Hatfield still has is working the logistics of getting everyone together at the holidays. “I’m hoping not to spend all the holidays on the road driving my daughter around, and it might be tough to get everyone together. I haven’t thought that through yet.” Westborough mom Michelle Travis has a suggestion passed down from her family: “We really want to get together with people, and doing so on the exact holiday is just too much, especially when juggling multiple families. We plan a big family dinner and hold it on a non-holiday day.” Knowing that getting people

together is the goal, Travis’ family uses planning to help spread the responsibilities and not create a burden for any one family. “Rather than hold a random pot luck, we make it a planned pot luck,” she says. “Everyone with ‘specialties’ gets selected to bring them, and it becomes a ‘best-of’ holiday meal!” Another suggestion Travis offers centers around gifts and budget: “People just go overboard with gifts. It’s almost becomes a contest on who can give the most, and it takes away from the real holiday spirt.” With that in mind, she established a rule to deal with that reality. “We limit gifts to a single gift for every year of life,” she says. “So if the child is two, holiday gifts are two.” She laughs when challenged about how this strategy will hold up in later years: “I suspect by the time the child is nearing 10 we’ll have modified the rule, and for now the simplicity works.” Like many moms with young children, Travis lives in a ‘tight space’ and has developed strategies for holiday entertaining. “Using Space Bags or plastic containers, I make a point of putting off-season clothes and toys away,” she notes. “For example, all summer clothes and toys are put away for the winter holidays. When the seasons change again, I rotate the summer clothing and toys out, and put winter things away. This makes our home

feel less cluttered and makes it more inviting for guests.” An added bonus: “It also helps with determining toys and clothes for passing along.” Remembering Wolfson’s prime goal of preserving relationships is key as families strive to enjoy the holiday season thanks to a little upfront planning. “Even with all our planning, we still have things come up we didn’t anticipate,” Travis says with a smile. “We can’t let those ‘opportunities’ become disabling. We try our best to roll with changes, and make the best of them. I always remember in those stressful times, when things are at their worse, we can always smile and have some egg nog. In the end, it’s all about the egg nog.”

Tips for enjoying more, stressing less • Avoid stores, shop online when you can. • Use an online wish list to streamline gift-buying. • Limit gifts to one for each year of a child’s life. • Make a gift budget and stick to it. • Move your celebration with extended family or friends to a day other than the actual holiday. • Make your holiday celebration a planned pot luck. • Rotate your summer clothes, toys and gear out to make room for fall/winter. • Expect and roll with the hiccups.

Photo courtesy Mass MoCA

OUT& ABOUT

Experience the traditions of an early 19th-century New England Thanksgiving at Old Sturbridge Village on Thursday, November 27.

The skies above Springfield will be colorful and bright on Friday, November 28 thanks to the Parade of the Big Balloons.

Photo courtesy Yankee Candle

Photo courtesy Spirit of Springfield

Photo courtesy Old Sturbridge Village

Described as the “Bjork of kids’ music,” Elska brings her brand of electronic faerie tunes to Mass MoCA on Saturday, November 8.

Yankee Candle’s annual slate of holiday events begins on Sunday, November 23 with its Annual Tree Lighting in South Deerfield. BAYSTATEPARENTWEST 11

OUT&ABOUT MELTDOWN WARNING: Before you pack up the mini-van, please confirm your destination. Although we’ve done our best to ensure accuracy at press time, things can and do change…

3 Monday

Photo courtesy Eastern States Exposition

Drop-In Crafts. Hubbard Library, 24 Center Street, Ludlow. Come in to the Children’s Department any time during the Library’s open hours, go to the craft table in the Children’s Department, & do a fun craft! New crafts are put out every Monday. Recommended for ages 3+. Every Monday. Free. hubbardlibrary.org.

It’s Christmas come early for crafters as the Fiber Festival of New England comes to West Springfield starting November 1.

1 Saturday Farmers’ Market. Hitchcock Free Academy, 2 Brookfield Road, Brimfield. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. hitchcockacademy.org. Fiber Festival of New England. Eastern States Exposition, Mallory Complex, 1305 Memorial Avenue, West Springfield. 9 a.m.5 p.m. Sheep-shearing demos, workshops, fashion show, vendor exhibits, and more. fiberfestival.org. Sibling Preparation Class. Wesson Women and Infants Unit, North Administrative Conference Room, 759 Chestnut Street, Springfield. 9 a.m.-10 a.m. This class prepares children ages 3-4 for the arrival of a new brother or sister. $15. 413-794-BABY. Scavenger Hunt Bingo. Mason Library, 231 Main Street, Great Barrington. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. For each completed bingo square, winner gets to pluck something from the scary box. Free. gblibraries.org. Family Adventures in Reading. East Longmeadow Public Library, 60 Center Square, East Longmeadow. 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Professional storyteller Tom McCabe will present outstanding picture books that draw on a variety of cultural traditions, followed by discussions of the stories that explore character-building concepts. Free. elplkids.org. 12 NOVEMBER2014 13

Chess Club. Jones Library, 43 Amity Street, Amherst. 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Free. joneslibrary.org. Halloween Storyteller & Folksinger. Mason Library 231 Main Street, Great Barrington. 5 p.m - 6 p.m. Come to the Halloween show, “Shivers & Shudders,” to listen to Tim Van Egmond, a multi-talented storyteller, singer and musician. Free. gblibraries.org.

2 Sunday Fiber Festival of New England. Eastern States Exposition, Mallory Complex, 1305 Memorial Avenue, West Springfield. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sheep-shearing demos, workshops, fashion show, vendor exhibits, and more. fiberfestival.org. Handcrafts & Collectibles Show. Salem Cross Inn, 260 West Main Street, West Brookfield. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Featuring handmade crafts and collectibles for purchase. $4. Children under 10, free. salemcrossinn.com. Postnatal Yoga: Mom & Me. Baystate Education Center, 361 Whitney Avenue, Holyoke. 10:45 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Connect with other moms while having fun with your baby. These classes can help you regain your pre-pregnancy shape. Learn how to tone and strengthen your abdominal and pelvic floor muscles, reduce stress through breathing techniques, and relieve body aches and pain. $12 per class or $60 for a six-class card. 413-794-BABY.

Sunshine Story Time. Greenfield Public Library, 402 Main Street, Greenfield. 10 a.m.-11 a.m. All-ages story hour features interactive songs and stories. Free. greenfieldpubliclibrary.org. Story Time. Forbes Library, 20 West Street, Northampton. 10:30 am.-11:30 a.m. Join us for a special story time in the Children’s Room every Monday. Free. forbeslibrary.org. Tummy Time! Forbes Library, 20 West Street, Northampton. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. A fun social hour for young patrons. There will be some Tummy Time toys available, but please bring your own Boppy or prop pillow. Not appropriate for active crawlers or walkers. Free. forbeslibrary.org. Learn Mandarin. East Longmeadow Public Library, 60 Center Square, East Longmeadow. 4 p.m.-5 p.m. Kids grades 3-6 will enjoy learning basic conversation skills needed when making new friends. They’ll have the chance to engage in role-play activities and learn all they need to know through games, songs and other fun activities. Free. elplkids.org

4 Tuesday Preschool Story Hour. Greenfield Public Library, 402 Main Street, Greenfield. 10 a.m. -11 a.m. Stories, songs, crafts and fun for ages 5 and under. Free. greenfieldpubliclibrary.org. Sing With Me! Music Program for Preschoolers. Hubbard Library, 24 Center Street, Ludlow. 10:30 a.m.-11 a.m. A half-hour of group singing, clapping and stomping along to favorite kids’ songs, with occasional musical instruments or accompanying books thrown in. Free. hubbardlibrary.org. Toddler Time Stories & Songs. North Adams Public Library, 74 Church Street, North Adams. 10:30 a.m. For ages 1 to 3. Free. naplibrary.com. Brain Builders! Play & Learn Playgroup. Mason Library, 231 Main Street, Great Barrington. 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Read, sing, play, & talk during circle time & continue with fun table time activities, combining STEM & Every Child Ready to Read. For baby- 5 and their caregiver. Free. gblibraries.org.

Festival of Trees Craft Workshop. Mason Library, 231 Main Street, Great Barrington. 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Come make some crafts for our holiday tree exhibit at Berkshire Museum’s Festival of Trees, “On Safari.” Ages 7+. Free. Register online. gblibraries.org. Grades 3-5 Book Club. Forbes Library, 20 West Street, Northampton. 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Join us for a book discussion, snacks and a craft. Free. forbeslibrary.org. Movie: Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2. Hubbard Library, 24 Center Street, Ludlow. 4:30 p.m. Enjoy the just released to DVD movie, appearing for free on the library’s 6-foot screen. Also, free popcorn for all. Free. hubbardlibrary.org. New Parents Support Group. Baystate Health Education Center, BRL Conference Room, 361 Whitney Avenue, Holyoke. 5 p.m. Designed for new parents and babies up to 1, open to all moms. Meets every Tuesday. Free. 413-794-BABY. Parents of Toddlers Support Group. Baystate Health Education Center, BRL Conference Room, 361 Whitney Avenue, Holyoke. 6 p.m. This fun, child-friendly environment is open to all parents of toddlers who are interested in discussing potty training, setting limits, temper tantrums, new sibling adjustment and more. Free. 413-794-BABY.

5 Wednesday Music & Movement. Hitchcock Free Academy, 2 Brookfield Road, Brimfield. 9-9:45 a.m. Get Up & Move Together, socialize and interact with other families. All ages welcome. Free. hitchcockacademy.org Home School Day. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. A special day for home-schooled children and their parents to explore the Village and participate in hands-on activities, gaining exposure to many aspects of 1830s New England life in an interactive way. Adults $24, children 3-17 $8, under 2 free. osv.org. Preschool Story Time. North Adams Public Library, 74 Church Street, North Adams. 10:30 a.m. For ages 3-6. Free. naplibrary.com. Toddler Time! Forbes Library, 20 West Street, Northampton. 11 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Enjoy songs and stories with friends! Free. forbeslibrary.org. Festival of Trees Craft Workshop. Mason Library, 231 Main Street, Great Barrington. 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Come make some crafts for our holiday tree exhibit at Berkshire Museum’s Festival of Trees, “On Safari.” Ages 7+. Free. Register online. gblibraries.org.

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Chess Club. East Longmeadow Public Library, 60 Center Square, East Longmeadow. 4 p.m.-5 p.m. Open to all children ages 6-14 with some chess experience and a desire to improve their skills. Free. elplkids.org.

6 Thursday New Parents Support Group. Greenwood Center, 231 Maple Road, Longmeadow. 10 a.m. Designed for new parents and babies up to 1, open to all moms. Free. 413-794-BABY. Preschool Story Time. Jones Library, 43 Amity Street, Amherst. 10:30 a.m. Every Thursday. Free. joneslibrary.org. Family Music Class. Northampton Parents Center, 297 Main Street, Northampton. 10:45 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Free. northamptonparentscenter.org Baby Play Group. Forbes Library, 20 West Street, Northampton. 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Join us for a fun afternoon of play and socializing. Free. forbeslibrary.org. Tuck-Me-In Storytime. Hubbard Library, 24 Center Street, Ludlow. 7 p.m. Wind down with bedtime-themed storytimes. Free. hubbardlibrary.org.

7 Friday Parents of Toddlers Support Group. Greenwood Center, 231 Maple Road, Longmeadow. 10 a.m. This fun, child-friendly environment is open to all parents of toddlers who are interested in discussing potty training, setting limits, temper tantrums, new sibling adjustment and more. Free. 413-794-BABY. Mother Goose on the Loose. Greenfield Public Library, 402 Main Street, Greenfield. 11 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Songs, rhymes, and activities geared for ages 3 and under. Free. greenfieldpubliclibrary.org. WeeMuse Adventures. Berkshire Museum, 39 South Street, Pittsfield. Fridays in November, 11-11:30 a.m. For ages 18 months to 3 years, the program features songs, stories, scavenger hunts, playtime. Museum admission rates apply. 413-443-7171. berkshiremuseum.org. Sibling Preparation Class. Wesson Women and Infants Unit, North Administrative Conference Room, 759 Chestnut Street, Springfield. 6 p.m.- 7 p.m. This class prepares children ages 8-12 for the arrival of a new brother or sister. $15. 413-794-BABY.

8 Saturday Spanish Story Hour. Jones Library, 43 Amity Street, Amherst. 10:30 a.m. Ages 3-6. Free. joneslibrary.org. Dad and Me, a Father and Child Playgroup. Mason Library 231 Main Street, Great Barrington. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Dads can bring the kids for a storytime and playgroup, complete with coffee, donuts and juice. Free. gblibraries.org. Achieve Pregnancy Naturally With Herbs and Flower Essences. Forbes Library, 20 West Street, Northampton. 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Learn how to enhance fertility using plant medicine. Free. Registration required. forbeslibrary.org. Family Adventures in Reading. East Longmeadow Public Library, 60 Center Square, East Longmeadow. 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Professional storyteller Tom McCabe will present picture books that draw on a variety of cultural traditions followed by discussions of the stories that explore character-building concepts. Free. elplkids.org. Festival of Trees Craft Workshop. Mason Library, 231 Main Street, Great Barrington. 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Come make some crafts for our holiday tree exhibit at Berkshire Museum’s Festival of Trees, “On Safari.” Ages 7+. Free. Register online. gblibraries.org. Elska. Mass MoCA, 1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams. 2 p.m. Indie pop siren Elska, “the Bjork of kids’ music,” performs. $5 members, $8 others. massmoca.org. Lego Club. Jones Library, 43 Amity Street, Amherst. 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Ages 6-10. Free. joneslibrary.org. An Evening of Illumination. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge. Tours every 10 minutes from 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Step into the past and experience the quiet charms of evening as early New Englanders did. Enjoy a special guided tour of select buildings around the Village common, with shops and homes lit by the soft glow of candles, oil lamps and firelight. $35 per person. osv.org.

9 Sunday Babysitting Academy. Baystate Health Education Center, BRL Conference Room, 361 Whitney Avenue, Holyoke. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Babysitting training program for young adults ages 11.5 to 16. $30. 413-794-BABY. Postnatal Yoga: Mom & Me. Baystate Education Center, 361 Whitney Avenue, Holyoke. 10:45 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Connect with other moms while having fun with your baby. $12 per class or $60 for a six-class card. 413-794-BABY.

Horse lovers will be in their glory at the 50th Equine Affaire weekend starting November 13 in West Springfield, featuring educational programs, vendors and, of course, horses.

10 Monday Sunshine Story Time. Greenfield Public Library, 402 Main Street, Greenfield. 10 a.m.-11 a.m. All-ages story hour features interactive songs and stories. Free. greenfieldpubliclibrary.org. Story Time. Forbes Library, 20 West Street, Northampton. 10:30 am.-11:30 a.m. Join us for a special story time in the Children’s Room every Monday. Free. forbeslibrary.org. Learn Mandarin. East Longmeadow Public Library, 60 Center Square, East Longmeadow. 4 p.m.-5 p.m. Kids grades 3-6 will enjoy learning basic conversation skills needed when making new friends. They’ll have the chance to engage in role-play activities and learn all they need to know through games, songs, and other fun activities. Free. elplkids.org

11 Tuesday Veterans Day. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. All active, veteran and retired members of the military and their families receive free admission on Veterans Day (up to 6 people). Regular adult admission $24, children 3-17 $8, under 2 free. osv.org. Preschool Story Hour. Greenfield Public Library, 402 Main Street, Greenfield. 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Stories, songs, crafts and fun for ages 5 and under. Free. greenfieldpubliclibrary.org.

Photo courtesy Equine Affaire

Story & Craft Time. North Amherst Library, 8 Montague Road, Amherst. 4 p.m.- 5 p.m. Every Wednesday. Free. joneslibrary.org.

Toddler Time Stories & Songs. North Adams Public Library, 74 Church Street, North Adams. 10:30 a.m. For ages 1 to 3. Free. naplibrary.com. Tummy Time! Forbes Library, 20 West Street, Northampton. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. A fun social hour for young patrons. There will be some Tummy Time toys available, but please bring your own Boppy or prop pillow. Not appropriate for active crawlers or walkers. Free. forbeslibrary.org. Seashore Science. Hitchcock Free Academy, 2 Brookfield Road, Brimfield. 1 p.m.-2 p.m. In this fun and educational single workshop. live ocean animals will help students ages 8-12 discover how tide pool creatures are adapted to their lives at the edge of the sea. $5 per person. hitchcockacademy.org

12 Wednesday Music & Movement. Hitchcock Free Academy, 2 Brookfield Road, Brimfield. 9 a.m.-9:45 a.m. Get Up & Move Together, socialize and interact with other families. All ages welcome. Free. hitchcockacademy.org. Preschool Story Time. North Adams Public Library, 74 Church Street, North Adams. 10:30 a.m. For ages 3-6. Free. naplibrary.com. Baystate’s New Beginnings, Continuing the Magic. Baystate Education Center, 361 Whitney Avenue, Holyoke. 2 p.m.-3 p.m. Come in with your baby so we can help you BAYSTATEPARENTWEST 12 13

OUT&ABOUT understand your babies cues for feeding, crying and sleep. We will share with you the secrets of your baby’s behavior! Free. 413-794-BABY. Knitting Clinic. Forbes Library, 20 West Street, Northampton. 4:45 p.m.-6 p.m. Bring your stalled knitting project and get expert help to get the result you want. Free. forbeslibrary.org.

13 Thursday New Parents Support Group. Greenwood Center, 231 Maple Road, Longmeadow. 10 a.m. Designed for new parents and babies up to 1, open to all moms. Free. 413-794-BABY.

14 Friday Parents of Toddlers Support Group. Greenwood Center, 231 Maple Road, Longmeadow. 10 a.m. This fun, child-friendly environment is open to all parents of toddlers who are interested in discussing potty training, setting limits, temper tantrums, new sibling adjustment and more. Free. 413-794-BABY. Mother Goose on the Loose. Greenfield Public Library, 402 Main Street, Greenfield. 11 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Songs, rhymes and activities geared for ages 3 and under. Free. greenfieldpubliclibrary.org.

BEFORE BRAIN BALANCE My son was struggling with self-control, focus and impulsivity. He was a distraction to his classmates because he could not sit still long enough to get through a lesson.

AFTER 3 MONTHS OF BRAIN BALANCE The changes in my son’s behavior were rapid and progressive...his attitude and self-esteem increased drastically. He gained more awareness and control of his body and surroundings. He has learned to express himself and regulate his emotions. We now enjoy each other at a level that could not possibly be explained in words.

413-737-KIDS brainbalancecenters.com 14 NOVEMBER2014 15

WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA

Children at Birth Class. Wesson Women and Infants Unit, North Administrative Conference Room, 759 Chestnut Street, Springfield. 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. This class is aimed at children whose parents want them present at the birth of a sibling. The instructor presents material in language that children can understand. $15. 413-794-BABY.

15 Saturday Scout Day. Old Sturbrudge Village, 1 Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Special programs and handson studios designed around a specific theme help Scouts earn requirements toward badges, meet other Scouts and make lasting memories. For every one scout in uniform one parent gets in for the child rate ($8). Regular adult admission is $24. osv.org. Kids in the Kitchen. Hitchcock Free Academy, 2 Brookfield Road, Brimfield. 11:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Children ages 7-12 can learn simple meals for the family they can create themselves. $15. hitchcockacademy.org Family Adventures in Reading. East Longmeadow Public Library, 60 Center Square, East Longmeadow. 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Professional storyteller Tom McCabe will present picture books that draw on a variety of cultural traditions followed by discussions of the stories that explore character-building concepts. Free. elplkids.org.

Family Fun Night. Northampton Parents Center, 297 Main Street, Northampton. 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Bring the whole family for a fun evening! Crafts, optional potluck dinner, and fun entertainment. Free. northamptonparentscenter.org

16 Sunday Babysitting Academy. Baystate Mary Lane Hospital, 85 South Street, Ware. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Babysitting training program for young adults ages 11.5 to 16. $30. 413-794-BABY. Eastern States Exposition Presents Equine Affaire. Eastern States Exposition, 1305 Memorial Avenue, West Springfield. Equine-related education, entertainment, shopping, competition and horses! 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Adults $15, children 7-10, $8, 6 & under, free. equineaffaire.com Postnatal Yoga: Mom & Me. Baystate Education Center, 361 Whitney Avenue, Holyoke. 10:45 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Connect with other moms while having fun with your baby. $12 per class or $60 for a six-class card. 413-794-BABY.

17 Monday Sunshine Story Time. Greenfield Public Library, 402 Main Street, Greenfield. 10 a.m.-11 a.m. All-ages story hour features interactive songs and stories. Free. greenfieldpubliclibrary.org. Story Time. Forbes Library, 20 West Street, Northampton. 10:30 am.-11:30 a.m. Join us for a special story time in the Children’s Room every Monday. Free. forbeslibrary.org.

18 Tuesday Child Car Seat Clinic. Greenfield Fire Department, 412 Main Street, Greenfield. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Appointment required. 413-794-2255 Preschool Story Hour. Greenfield Public Library, 402 Main Street, Greenfield. 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Stories, songs, crafts, and fun for ages 5 and under. Free. greenfieldpubliclibrary.org. Brain Builders! Play & Learn Playgroup. Mason Library 231 Main Street, Great Barrington. 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Read, sing, play, & talk during circle time & continue with fun table time activities, combining STEM & Every Child Ready to Read. For baby-5 and their caregiver. Free. gblibraries.org. Toddler Time Stories & Songs. North Adams Public Library, 74 Church Street, North Adams. 10:30 a.m. For ages 1 to 3. Free. naplibrary.com. Tummy Time! Forbes Library, 20 West Street, Northampton. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. A fun

OUT&ABOUT social hour for young patrons. There will be some Tummy Time toys available, but please bring your own Boppy or prop pillow. Not appropriate for active crawlers or walkers. Free. forbeslibrary.org. Read With Me Book Club. Forbes Library, 20 West Street, Northampton. 3:30 p.m.4:30 p.m. For children in Grades 1-3 and their parents, friends or guardians. There will be a meeting with a brief discussion, crafts and snacks. Free. forbeslibrary.org. Craft Your Own Toys. Jones Library, 43 Amity Street, Amherst. 3:45 p.m.5 p.m. Ages 6+. Registration required. Free. joneslibrary.org. New Parents Support Group. Baystate Health Education Center, BRL Conference Room, 361 Whitney Avenue, Holyoke. 5 p.m. Designed for new parents and babies up to 1, open to all moms. Free. 413-794-BABY. Jewelry Making With Joan. Hubbard Library, 24 Center Street, Ludlow. 6:30 p.m. Create barrettes, earrings & pins to give as gifts or wear yourself! Materials provided by the Library. Suitable for ages 5+. Register online or in the Children’s Department. hubbardlibrary.org.

19 Wednesday Preschool Story Time. North Adams Public Library, 74 Church Street, North Adams. 10:30 a.m. For ages 3-6. Free. naplibrary.com.

20 Thursday Big Cats/Little Cats Storytime. Hubbard Library, 24 Center Street, Ludlow. 10 a.m. Featuring fun stories and fascinating facts about cats in all shapes and sizes. hubbardlibrary.org. New Parents Support Group. Greenwood Center, 231 Maple Road, Longmeadow. 10 a.m. Designed for new parents and babies up to 1, open to all moms. Free. 413-794-BABY. Family Music Class. Northampton Parents Center, 297 Main Street, Northampton. 10:45 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Free. northamptonparentscenter.org Crafts with Lori Gordon. Greenfield Public Library, 402 Main Street, Greenfield. 3:30 p.m.-5 p.m. An interactive seasonal craft activity geared for ages 7 and up; younger patrons may participate with parental assistance. Free. greenfieldpubliclibrary.org.

21 Friday Parents of Toddlers Support Group. Greenwood Center, 231 Maple Road, Longmeadow. 10 a.m. This fun, child-friendly environment is open to all parents of toddlers

who are interested in discussing potty training, setting limits, temper tantrums, new sibling adjustment and more. Free. 413-794-BABY. Mother Goose on the Loose. Greenfield Public Library, 402 Main Street, Greenfield. 11 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Songs, rhymes and activities geared for ages 3 and under. Free. greenfieldpubliclibrary.org. ABC Storytime. Hubbard Library, 24 Center Street, Ludlow. 3:30 p.m. Have fun learning about a different letter every week using stories, flash cards and other fun activities. 30 minutes. A great way to introduce your little one to the alphabet or to encourage their progress. Registration required. Free. hubbardlibrary.org. Minecraft Jr. Hubbard Library, 24 Center Street, Ludlow. 3:30 p.m. Minecraft players of all skill levels are welcome to bring their own laptops or are welcome to use one of the library’s 5 computers to build, play and create. For elementary school-aged children. Free. hubbardlibrary.org.

22 Saturday Mistletoe Mart & Craft Faire. St. James Episcopal Church, 8 Church Street, Greenfield. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Local crafters, food, raffles and more. Free. saintjamesgreenfield.org Farmers’ Market. Hitchcock Free Academy, 2 Brookfield Road, Brimfield. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Last day of the season. hitchcockacademy.org. Family Adventures in Reading. East Longmeadow Public Library, 60 Center Square, East Longmeadow. 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Professional storyteller Tom McCabe will present picture books that draw on a variety of cultural traditions followed by discussions of the stories that explore character-building concepts. Free. elplkids.org.

23 Sunday Postnatal Yoga: Mom & Me. Baystate Education Center, 361 Whitney Avenue, Holyoke. 10:45 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Connect with other moms while having fun with your baby. These classes can help you regain your pre-pregnancy shape. Learn how to tone and strengthen your abdominal and pelvic floor muscles, reduce stress through breathing techniques, and relieve body aches and pain. $12 per class or $60 for a six-class card. 413-794-BABY. Yankee Candle Annual Tree Lighting. 25 Greenfield Road, South Deerfield. 5 p.m. A festive start to the holiday, Santa lights the wondrous Yankee Candle Christmas Tree. Free. yankeecandle.com.

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BAYSTATEPARENTWEST 14 15

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24 Monday

28 Friday

Sunshine Story Time. Greenfield Public Library, 402 Main Street, Greenfield. 10 a.m.-11 a.m. All-ages story hour features interactive songs and stories. Free. greenfieldpubliclibrary.org.

Parade of the Big Balloons. Main Street, Springfield, 11 a.m. Welcome Santa Claus to town with Springfield’s own 75-foot inflatable “Cat in the Hat” balloon and a few of his inflatable friends, bands and colorful contingents. spiritofspringfield.org.

25 Tuesday

Photo courtesy Springfield Boys & Girls Club

Preschool Story Hour. Greenfield Public Library, 402 Main Street, Greenfield. 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Stories, songs, crafts, and fun for ages 5 and under. Free. greenfieldpubliclibrary.org.

More than 100 unique decorated Christmas trees await visitors to the Festival of Trees in Springfield, starting Saturday, November 29.

Musical Moments

A Cultural Exploration of Song, Dance & Instruments for Children from Birth to Age 6 Fridays 9:30-10:15 a.m. $100 for eight sessions LMI’s music and creative arts program is one of the most diverse in the area, introducing students to music and art concepts from around the world. To learn more or enroll, please contact Longmeadow Montessori at info@longmeadowmontessori.org or call 413-567-1820

Sing • Dance • Move • Explore • Play 1 FREE MUSICAL MOMENTS CLASS New Friday, November 7, 14 or 21 from 9:30am – 10:15am ts n e d Stu (choose to attend on one date) Only! Must call 413-567-1820 to register for free class Not valid with any other promotion or discount. Limit one coupon per customer per visit

Longmeadow Montessori Internationale 413-567-1820 • Longmeadowmontessori.org 777 Longmeadow Street Longmeadow, MA 01106 Contact: info@longmeadowmontessori.org 16 NOVEMBER2014

Brain Builders! Play & Learn Playgroup. Mason Library 231 Main Street, Great Barrington. 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Read, sing, play, & talk during circle time & continue with fun table time activities, combining STEM & Every Child Ready to Read. For baby- 5 and their caregiver. Free. gblibraries.org. Toddler Time Stories & Songs. North Adams Public Library, 74 Church Street, North Adams. 10:30 a.m. For ages 1 to 3. Free. naplibrary.com. New Parents Support Group. Baystate Health Education Center, BRL Conference Room, 361 Whitney Avenue, Holyoke. 5 p.m. Designed for new parents and babies up to 1, open to all moms. Free. 413-794-BABY.

26 Wednesday Baystate’s New Beginnings, Continuing the Magic. Baystate Education Center, 361 Whitney Avenue, Holyoke. 2 p.m.-3 p.m. Come in with your baby so we can help you understand your babies cues for feeding, crying and sleep. We will share with you the secrets of your baby’s behavior! Free. 413-794-BABY. Tree lighting ceremony. Main Street, North Adams. 5 p.m. Enjoy the annual tree lighting in Monument Square. northadams-ma.gov. Bright Nights at Forest Park - Opening Night. 89 Longhill Street, Springfield. 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. One of New England’s best holiday lighting experiences with more than 600,000 lights along a 3-mile route. Follow the lit path through Santa’s Magical Forest to Santa’s Cottage. Opening Night special rate - $6. brightnights.org.

27 Thursday Old Sturbridge Village Thanksgiving Weekend & New England Wedding. 1 Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Through Sunday, November 30. Old Sturbridge Village re-creates various activities from an early New England Thanksgiving Day. As part of the celebration, the village will host a New England wedding. Adult admission is $24, children 3-17 is $8, under 2 free. osv.org.

Moonlight Magic. Bridge Street, Shelburne Falls. 4 p.m.-9 p.m. This kick-off to the holiday season includes Lighting of the Village, the Parade of Lights, Santa’s Workshop, carolers, food and street performers. Galleries and restaurants will stay open late for special holiday promotions. shellburnefalls.com.

29 Saturday Monson Arts Council Holiday Craft Fair. Downtown Monson. 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 36th annual event will feature more than 100 crafters in five buildings within easy walking distance. monsonartscouncil.com. Old Deerfield Christmas Sampler Craft Fair. Eastern States Exposition, 1305 Memorial Avenue, West Springfield. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Hundreds of booths feature local, regional, and national artists, and a wide selection of traditional crafts, with plenty of holiday decorations. $8 adults, $1 children under 12. deerfield-craft.org. Springfield Boys & Girls Club Festival of Trees. 1500 Main Street, Springfield. 11 a.m.8 p.m. Enjoy entertainment and visits from Santa, and view more than 100 unique, oneof-a-kind decorated holiday trees. Adults $5, Seniors $4, children under 12 free. Current active military personnel and their families admitted free. visittreefest.com.

30 Sunday Old Deerfield Christmas Sampler Craft Fair. Eastern States Exposition, 1305 Memorial Avenue, West Springfield. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Hundreds of booths feature local, regional, and national artists, and a wide selection of traditional crafts, with plenty of holiday decorations. $8 adults, $1 children under 12. deerfield-craft.org. Santa’s Holiday Parade. Yankee Candle, 25 Greenfield Road, South Deerfield. 10 a.m. Santa welcomes the holiday season as he leads a parade to Yankee Candle Village. Free. yankeecandle.com. Monson Arts Council Holiday Craft Fair. 200 Main Street, Monson. 12 p.m.-4:30 p.m. 36th annual event will feature more than 100 crafters in five buildings within easy walking distance. monsonartscouncil.com.

Visit baystateparent.com to post your family event. Email listings to editor@baystateparent.com.

Photo Courtesy Spirit of Springfield

Bright Nights Turns 20 Surprising facts about the annual family tradition and its sister event, Parade of the Big Balloons.

By Ama nda Roberge The holiday season is a festive time of twinkling lights and gatherings – a celebration of life and the fine art of finding camaraderie amidst the darkening days. Thanks to a non-profit organization known as Spirit of Springfield, the city likes to take the festivities to the max – to the tune of 650,000 sparkling lights and an annual event that attracts 60,000 people. Bright Nights at Forest Park, which has become the largest holiday lighting display in the Northeast, and the Tower Square Parade of the Big Balloons are two ways in which the industrial city has rung in the holidays for more than two decades – the former turning 20 this month. Behind the scenes of these two milestone events – both of which attract thousands from up and down the Eastern Seaboard – there are plenty of hard-working elves. Among them is Spirit of Springfield founder and President Judith Matt, who initiated the very first Bright Nights event in 1994 with the help of Patrick Sullivan from the Springfield Department of Parks, Buildings and Recreation Management. “We just hoped it was as good of an idea as we thought it was,” she said. “Now, 20 years later, we think we did the right thing.” And while the event has become

more grandiose over the years – each season bringing new ideas for displays and new ways to delight visitors – the real change has been trying to keep up with technology. For the past five years, organizers have been conquering one display each season as they convert all the bulbs to LED. The bulbs, which are more expensive, are also longerlasting – so the upgrade is a nobrainer as they mind their budget and work on it in due time. The drive through Forest Park, which opens Nov. 26 and stays open through Jan. 4, 2015, takes cars and buses full of families and friends down a nearly 4-mile journey of joy. The welded framework that serves as the base for all of the various lighting displays requires the hard work of both craftsmen and lay volunteers alike, demanding as much holiday spirit as blood, sweat and tears as each display comes to life. Following the drive through the luminescent park there is more fun to be had, whether you prefer shopping at a bustling gift shop or showing your kids the magic of horse-drawn carriage rides on the weekends. On the busiest nights, you might wait for an hour or so to begin your journey, noted Amy Barron-Burke, Spirit of Springfield vice president. But it is not

uncommon to get lucky and cruise right through. According Barron-Burke, funds raised during the six-week run help Spirit of Springfield run its other free programs year-round, which include a giant pancake breakfast and Parade of the Big Balloons. Once again, with Springfield’s parade – which takes place each year on the day after Thanksgiving – there is much hustling going on behind the scenes to bring the magical event to life. Touted by locals as something of a miniMacy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the city has one special something that Manhattan will never have. “We have the only Cat-in-the-Hat balloon that exists, and it is only licensed to be a part of our parade,” said Barron-Burke. The balloon was commissioned during the parade’s first official run under the sponsorship of Spirit of Springfield, with the cooperation of Dr. Seuss’s (otherwise known as Springfield native Theodor Geisel) widow, Audrey, following his death. According to Matt, it takes 40 to 50 volunteers to guide the giant Cat down the parade route. Up to 300 volunteers will help walk the seven large balloons down the two-mile course. And while the balloons are amazing to look at, it’s costly to

make them float. This year it will take 25,500 cubic feet of helium to inflate the big balloons, which will cost an estimated $9,000-$10,000, she said. It’s an amazing, necessary expense, and one that sadly isn’t reusable, but released into thin air when the balloons are deflated at the end of the parade. Barron-Burke and Matt agree the parade is an annual tradition for people of all ages, and it’s not unusual to see someone toting their kids along, having attended each year as a child themselves. “We see people coming back year after year, continuing the tradition with their own families,” said Barron-Burke, adding that it takes an hour for the parade to pass by and is a favorite for people who eschew the madness of Black Friday shopping, opting instead for the fun and excitement of the free event. For Matt, all of the work that goes on behind the scenes is well worth it for the volunteers and staff members who have Bright Nights and the Big Balloon parade on their minds for the 364 days leading up to their kick-off moments. “It’s a huge effort but one that is well worth it,” Matt added. “Once you see it, it will be a holiday tradition, there’s no question about it.” BAYSTATEPARENTWEST 17

Family Holiday Happenings

While the big winter holidays fall in December, there’s so much to do and see these days, the fun really starts the minute the kids’ Halloween costumes go back into the closet. Here’s just a sampling of the fun fairs, events, performances , and day trips your family can enjoy through November and the first half of December. Christmas Collection Craft Fair. The First Congregational Church, 7 Somers Road, East Longmeadow. Saturday, Nov. 1, 8:30 a.m.- 3 p.m. churchontherotary.org Festival of Trees 2014: On Safari. Berkshire Museum, 39 South Street (Route 7), Pittsfield. Friday, Nov. 14 – Sunday, January 4. This year’s Festival of Trees On Safari invites guests to join the museum on a wildlife expedition through the galleries. Festival of Trees will run concurrently with an exciting exhibition – Lions & Tigers & Bears: Through the Lens with National Geographic. Adults $13, children $6. berkshiremuseum.org Mistletoe Mart & Craft Faire. St. James Episcopal Church, 8 Church Street, Greenfield, Saturday, Nov. 22, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Local crafters, food, raffles and more. Free. saintjamesgreenfield.org Norman Rockwell: Home for the Holidays. Norman Rockwell Museum, 9 Route 183, Stockbridge. Saturday, Nov. 22 through Feb. 8. Memorable, enduring images are on view in this special holiday installation of original artworks and objects. Adults $17.50, children 6-18 18 NOVEMBER2014 19

$5, children 5 and under free. nrm. org SVAHS Craft Fair. Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School, 80 Locust Street, Northampton, Sunday, Nov. 23, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Yankee Candle Annual Tree Lighting. 25 Greenfield Road, South Deerfield, Sunday, Nov. 23, 5 p.m. A festive start to the holiday, Santa lights the wondrous Yankee Candle Christmas Tree. Free. yankeecandle.com Tree lighting ceremony. Main Street, North Adams, Wednesday, Nov. 26, 5 p.m. Enjoy the annual tree lighting in Monument Square. northadams-ma.gov Bright Nights at Forest Park Opening Night. 89 Longhill Street, Springfield. Wednesday, Nov. 26, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. One of New England’s best holiday lighting experiences with more than 600,000 lights along a 3-mile route. Follow the lit path through Santa’s Magical Forest to Santa’s Cottage. Opening Night special rate - $6. Runs through Sunday, Jan. 4. brightnights.org Holiday Country Folk Art Craft Show, Sturbridge Host Hotel and Conference Center, 366 Main Street, Sturbridge, Friday-Sunday, Nov. 28-30, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. This show features handcrafted and decorating items in such themes/ motifs as primitive, cottage, shabby chic, French country, vintage Northwoods Rustic, fine, traditional and contemporary folk art. countryfolkart.com

Photos Courtesy Stockbridge Chamber Of Commerce

Let’s Go

Tower Square Parade of the Big Balloons. Main Street, Springfield, Friday, Nov. 28, 11 a.m. Welcome Santa Claus to town with Springfield’s own 75foot Cat-in-the-Hat balloon and a few of his inflatable friends, bands and colorful contingents. spiritofspringfield.org Moonlight Magic. Bridge Street, Shelburne Falls. Friday, Nov. 28, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. This kick-off to the holiday season includes Lighting of the Village, the Parade of Lights, Santa's Workshop, carolers, food and street performers. Galleries and restaurants will stay open late for special holiday promotions. shellburnefalls.com Springfield Boys & Girls Club Festival of Trees. 1500 Main Street, Springfield, Saturday, Nov. 28, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Runs through Sunday, Dec. 14. Enjoy entertainment and visits from Santa, and view more than 100 unique, one-of-a-kind decorated holiday trees. Adults $5, Seniors $4, children under 12 are free. Current active military personnel and their families admitted free. visittreefest.com Monson Arts Council Holiday Craft Fair. Downtown Monson, Saturday, Nov. 29, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 36th annual event will feature more than 100 crafters in five buildings within easy walking distance. monsonartscouncil.com Old Deerfield Christmas Sampler Craft Fair. Eastern States Exposition, 1305 Memorial Avenue, West Springfield, Saturday and

Sunday Nov. 29-30, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Hundreds of booths feature local, regional and national artists, and a wide selection of traditional crafts, with plenty of holiday decorations. $8 adults, $1 children under 12. deerfield-craft.org Brunch with Santa. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge, Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14 and 21, 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Brunch with Santa at the Oliver Wight Tavern at Old Sturbridge Village offers a large selection of brunch items and a chance for the little ones to meet Santa. Adults $19.95; seniors $17.95, $8.95 for children ages 10 and under. Reservations Required, call (508) 347-0333. osv.org Santa’s Holiday Parade. Yankee Candle, 25 Greenfield Road, South Deerfield. Sunday, Nov. 30, 10 a.m. Santa welcomes the holiday season as he leads a parade to Yankee Candle Village. Free. yankeecandle.com Tales of Christmas. Taggart House, 18 Main Street, Stockbridge, Friday, Dec. 5, 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Gather ’round to hear classic stories of the season. Free. stockbridgechamber.org Christmas By Candlelight. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge, Dec. 5-7, Dec. 12-14, Dec. 19-21, 4 p.m.-9 p.m. Escape the frenzy of a modern Christmas with an enchanted evening of gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, music, dance, and a sleigh ride (weather permitting).

with thousands of gently-used, preloved children's books at bargain prices. (413) 259-3345

Photos Courtesy Stockbridge Chamber Of Commerce

Meet Father Christmas and chat with Santa Claus. Discounted tickets will be available online through Nov. 28. osv.org

Holiday House Tour, Stockbridge. Saturday, Dec. 6, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit some of the area’s historic properties on a self-guided tour. Tickets are $20 per person and may be purchased in advance through the chamber office or on the day of at The Red Lion Inn. stockbridgechamber.org

Holiday Card-Making Party. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, 125 West Bay Road, Amherst, Saturday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. $12 pair/trio ages 3+ with an adult. The Carle will provide a few ideas and all the materials you need and to create six special cards with envelopes. Registration recommended. carlemuseum.org

Children’s Holiday Story Time. Stockbridge Library’s train station location, Saturday, Dec. 6, 11 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Free. stockbridgechamber.org

Mister G’s Holiday Concerts. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, 125 West Bay Road, Amherst, Saturday, Dec. 6, 11 a.m & 1 p.m. $8. Popular, international children’s music artist and local hero Mister G returns to The Carle for two special holiday concerts. carlemuseum.org Breakfast With Santa. Look Park, Garden House, 300 North Main Street, Florence. Saturday, Dec. 6. lookpark.org Northampton Winter Craft Fair. Northampton High School, Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6-7, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Features one-of-a-kind handmade crafts from 90 juried artisans, food, a silent auction on Saturday, and a children's book sale

6 p.m.-7 p.m. Meet in front of The Red Lion Inn, Main Street, with your candle or flashlight and join the festive caroling followed by a Luminaria walk to the First Congregational Church. stockbridgechamber.org Holiday Concert. First Congregational Church, 4 Main Street, Stockbridge, Saturday, Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m. Celebrate the magic of the season with a joyful holiday musical program featuring the Berkshire Lyric Chorus, the Blafield Children’s Chorus and Jack Brown, Music Director. Tickets $23. stockbridgechamber.org

Santa’s Cookie Workshop. Norman Rockwell Museum, 9 Route 183, Stockbridge, Saturday, Dec. 6, 3 p.m.-5 p.m. Decorate artistic holiday cookies inspired by the spirit of the season with Santa. He’ll be on hand to help trim special treats and participate in the festivities, which will include holiday music and special gallery talks about Norman Rockwell’s holiday art. Adults $17.50, children 6-18 $5, children 5 and under free. nrm.org

Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas Recreation. Sunday, Dec. 7, noon-2 p.m. See Main Street as Norman Rockwell did when he painted the famous Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas. Main Street becomes a magical New England village with over 50 antique cars parked along the street (weather permitting) and a full range of festive activities including Roger the Jester, lunch at the Christmas Food Booth, photo ops and much more. stockbridgechamber.org

Caroling Luminaria Walk, Stockbridge. Saturday, Dec. 6,

Santa’s Trains. Look Park, Garden House, 300 North Main Street,

Florence. Wednesday, Dec. 10Wednesday, Dec. 24. lookpark.org. Holiday Shindy. Crispina's Church, 40 Melville Street, Pittsfield, FridaySunday, Dec. 12-14. The Berkshires' Holiday Craft Sale: more than 50 artists, artisans, makers, bakers, and craftspeople gather from near and far to offer shoppers all manner of handmade wares. From greenery to toys, jewelry, pottery, clothing, candles and so much more. Enjoy live music, delicious food and lovely people. crispina.com Irish Christmas in America. Berchmans Hall, Elms College, 291 Springfield Street, Chicopee, Sunday, Dec. 14, 1:30 p.m. This family-friendly performance features Irish ballads, lively instrumental tunes and thrilling Irish dancing, while photographic images provide a backdrop to some of the rich historical traditions. Tickets $22-$26. elmsirishcenter.org A Christmas Carol. The Colonial Theatre, 111 South Street, Pittsfield. Sunday, Dec. 14 through Monday, Dec. 22. Journey back to Victorian England and experience the classic story filled with terrific turns and infused with holiday music. Adults $37, children 16 and under $27. berkshiretheatre.org

November At The Carle! Elephant and Piggie Book Party! November 2, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Join Mo Willems for an exclusive preview of his new book, Waiting Is Not Easy! Meet Mo, get your books signed and enjoy special art projects and films. See website for details and signing guidelines. Free with Museum Admission. Picture Book Theatre Presents

Tico and The Golden Wings and Geraldine The Music Mouse by Leo Lionni November 8, 15, 22, 2:00 pm November 28 & 29, 2:00pm & 3:00 pm See Leo Lionni’s stories come to life with puppets and young dancers. $6 Tickets may be purchased in advance at the Museum’s Admissions Desk or by calling (413) 658-1126. Tico and The Golden Wings Copyright © 1964 by Leo Lionni; Copyright © 1992 Renewed by Leo Lionni; Geraldine, The Music Mouse Copyright © 1979 by Leo Lionni

Madeline Family Day November 16, 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm Meet Madeline and see our new exhibition Madeline at 75: The Art of Ludwig Bemelmans. Plus gallery tour, special art activities, storytimes, films and Madeline tattoos! Free with Museum Admission. Support for this exhibition has been generously provided by Mr. and Mrs. Charles M. Royce and The Walton Family Foundation

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1. DOGS: Sometimes you just have to go with it! This family loved this shot and we couldn’t stop laughing! Their dog was positioned exactly opposite from what we were going for, but we went with it, and now it’s a family favorite! 2. HOME: One of this family’s favorite places to hang out is in their backyard, so we just planned our session around that! As you can see, their personalities shine through as they are in the comfort of their own home, too! 3. OUTDOOR: This little man is a perfect example of real life! A childhood favorite - getting tossed by Mom or Dad, documented in one split second. It’s easy to see why these memories can bring back the emotion - just looking at this image can make anyone smile! 4. FAMILY: This is by far one of my most favorite shots — It’s something I ask a lot of my parents to do during a session - kiss! It almost always results in the kids making all kinds of reactions - ‘gross,’ ‘ew,’ etc. But this genuine reaction takes the cake!

1. DOGS

3. OUTDOOR 20 NOVEMBER2014 21

4. FAMILY

2. HOME

Create a fantastic family holiday card: Tips from the Pros

You want your family’s unique message and spirit to shine through in the annual holiday greeting card: Here’s how to do it. By Joa n Goodchild Photography by K eri Gavin of kerijea nnephotography

By early December, they begin to arrive in your mailbox. These days, you may even get several in your inbox, too, as many have gone digital. The holiday greeting card is a tradition for many families. In fact, some historians claim the first holiday greeting cards were created in 1873, right here in Massachusetts, by Boston resident Louis Prang. Ranging from funny, to sweet, to sentimental, it’s how we often say “Seasons Greetings” to friends and family we don’t see regularly and give them a glimpse of how we’ve changed over the past year. There’s the family photo, the handmade card, the humorous letter detailing what’s going on with the family and, of course, the picture of the dog dressed like Santa.

We’ve seen so many over the years: What makes a truly great holiday card? Gretchen Stephan, a Hopkinton mother of two and owner of Whitehall Farm Studios, says she doesn’t have to go far for inspiration - she just fires up her laptop. “I love using Pinterest to come up with inspiration for holiday cards,” she says. “I also love to peruse boutiques and tag sales for unique ideas and items. Old books are always a huge inspiration.” She also favors using pictures, but enjoys putting personal touches on her card that go beyond the standard family photo. “I like to take my kids’ pictures and turn them into characters,” she explains. “Last year, I made the kids into elves; I love fun and lightheartedness when it comes to the holidays. It can be a very emotionally charged time for people, and I like to lighten things up a bit. I also love to root around my old books and cut stencils out of

old calendars and magazines.” But if you’re pressed for time – or you’d rather just stick with the tried-and-true family photo – here are four ways you can make your picture fabulous.

Relax “My advice is to just be yourselves,” says Shawna Shenette, an Auburnbased photographer. “In my sessions, I encourage interaction rather than just looking at me and smiling, and this really brings out and portrays personality in holiday photos.” Shenette also notes one of the more common mistakes she sees in family photo cards: the obvious effort that went in to getting the picture assembled. “While I know a lot of preparation and energy goes into holiday photo sessions – and as parents we definitely want the perfect photo – I think the biggest mistake that I see is letting stress get in the way. It definitely shows in the photos. Relax, have fun, and your family’s happiness will show through!” Keri Gavin, an Essex photographer and mom of two young children, agrees. “Forcing that smile and yelling and screaming for everyone to look at the camera is a surefire way to get images that do not reflect you as a family! Remember to make it fun and relaxed!” she advises. “That is the best way to get a natural moment.”

Consider your backdrop Gavin prefers shooting family photos outdoors because the light and surroundings naturally make for a beautiful shot. “I always encourage families to take their photographs outdoors,” she notes. “Not only do you have beautiful options to choose from, but then you also don’t have to

worry about all the clutter inside your home, on the living room side tables, or all that laundry you didn’t get to yet! Step outside in the warm sunlight!” Shenette says both indoor and outdoor photos work, with the right surroundings: “As long as the props for the indoor sessions are tasteful and timeless, I think they are a great option for families.” Denise Smith, a photographer in Longmeadow, advises families to get away from the notion that your holiday card photo must reflect the current season. “I do not think a holiday photo has to look ‘holiday-ish.’ It can be a great time camping, at the beach, picking pumpkins or at a great vacation destination,” she says. “What’s most important is everyone looks happy and healthy.”

Plan for pets If you’re planning to include the dog in your family photo, or perhaps you just want your pet photographed alone, it’s going to require some advance prep. “Pets are just as much a part of the family as anyone!” Gavin notes. “The number one thing we suggest is to always bring along someone else who is just in charge of holding the leash and tending to the dog. Sometimes the dogs don’t have any interest in being in the photo, so having someone else to give them a break is helpful. Position everyone just right and bring the dog in lastminute. It helps to have someone there to give treats, call their name or even bring them for a quick walk. When the rest of the family is ready, just bring the dog in and push that camera button!” Smith says pet owners can get frustrated trying to get the animal to pose correctly, so keeping expectations in check is important if planning to include a pet.

“Just keep it simple, but have fun with it,” she adds. “Use a collar to help hold the pet in place and, of course, a treat in your pocket can be handy.”

Remember your manners If you’re a holiday letter writer, etiquette expert Jodi RR Smith has three rules she suggests people observe: keep it short, keep it light, and keep it honest. “It shouldn’t be longer than a page,” says Smith, who runs Mannersmith, an etiquette consultancy in Marblehead. “And instead of gushing about how your son is the best player on his soccer team, offer specific examples instead, [such as] what he learned in soccer this year.”

Another thing to avoid: writing in a weird voice, like the family dog. “Other than professional writers, most people just can’t pull it off, and it comes across as creepy,” she adds. Also, remember that your holiday letter is meant to be lighthearted and happy; avoid sharing sad news. If you’re in the midst of a difficult health battle or a divorce, that news is better shared in person and oneon-one. Lastly, avoid airing your grievances, a common faux pas letter writers make, Smith says. “I’ve been doing this for years and I’ve seen examples that would make your hair curl,” she notes. “People make nasty comments about a brother they aren’t speaking to or an ex-wife. If you’re in a feud with someone, that is your business and not something that belongs in a holiday letter.”

BAYSTATEPARENTWEST 20 21

A step-by-step guide to two timeless, inexpensive and easy Thanksgiving crafts to wow your guests

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVEN KING

Dress up your holiday table with a fun, new tradition

More than any other holiday, food is at the center of the Thanksgiving celebration, which is why many go the extra mile to set a nice table. However, given the demands of the season, you may not have the extra time or money to make it happen. No worries, we’ve got you covered. Paula Ethier, baystateparent’s resident craft expert and creative director, has created two beautiful, multipurpose, seasonal crafts that are classic, playful and fun. Even better: Both are simple and can be tackled in less than 20 minutes - and each for less than $20 in supplies.

Fall “Acorn” Centerpiece

Sure, you can have the classic cornucopia or a

pumpkin dressed up like a turkey, but they’ve both been done. Why not start a new, festive tradition with this classic acorn-themed centerpiece? 22 NOVEMBER2014 23

Supplies • 2.5-inch plastic Easter eggs (Paula used silver, gold and purple) • Jute • Clear vase, any size • Glue gun • Scissors

Directions 1. Cut a 1-inch strand of jute, set aside. 2. Using the shorter half of the egg, begin gluing jute off the spool to the edge where it connects to the longer end. Wrap and glue in a flat pattern as you wind your way to the top. This is your acorn cap. 3. When you’re close to the top, take the piece of 1-inch cut jute and glue it to the center – that’s your acorn stem. Finish wrapping and gluing the jute until the entire end is covered. 4. Fill your vase with as many “acorns” as you desire. Our 14-inch vase held 18.

Now, the neat aspect of this versatile decoration is it can have various uses in addition to “pretty centerpiece”: Thankful Grab Conversation Starter: Fill each egg with a question, such as “What are you most thankful for this year?”, “Share the funniest thing that happened to you this year”, “What is your favorite part of the holidays?”, etc. Guests take turns during the meal picking and answering, or save it for dessert and coffee after the main meal. Acorn hunt: If you have little ones, fill the acorns with small treats, and after dinner hide them around the house for the children to find. Placeholders: Ditch the vase and, writing your guest’s name on each, use them as placeholders around the table. Another great feature of this craft: It’s reusable: Make the acorns once and set them on your table every year. It’s also a fantastic hostess gift if you’re a guest at someone’s house.

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Bird’s Nest Necklace

Another idea: Make matching nests - using a similar combination of beads, but different nest sizes - for mothers and daughters, grandmothers and daughters, the possibilities are endless. It would also be an inexpensive but lovely teacher gift for the holidays.

There are several reasons to love this craft, one being it’s easy, but the result looks difficult and is sure to wow guests or a lucky recipient. And, given the safe nature of the supplies and skill level needed, any child over age 8 could join in the fun and make their own.

Supplies • Spool of 24-gauge wire • Package of beads (Paula bought two different styles and sizes for contrast) • Scissors

Directions 1. Keeping the wire on the spool, thread 3 to 5 beads on the wire and knot the end so they don’t fall off. The wire is very pliable, you can do this by hand. 2. Curl the beaded wire into a circle, then continue to wrap the wire around the beads in a growing circle, making your “nest.” 3. When you reach your desired nest size (Paula’s is a little more than 1-inch wide), leave 12 inches of slack wire and cut it from the spool.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVEN KING

4. Take the long piece of slack and wrap it around your nest a couple of times in two to four different

areas to secure it. Use remaining wire to form a jump ring through which to thread the necklace. The beauty of this project is your nest doesn’t have to be perfect because nature isn’t, Paula notes. And every nest can be unique to suit the recipient. You can vary the nest’s size: Make a larger nest for a statement piece – or add a pinback and make it into a brooch.

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Groceries Go Green: Inside Atkins Farms’ Green Commitment By Amanda Collins ArtLitSol Photography

oasting shelves of local maple products, cases of artisan cheeses, fresh baked pies and homemade mile-high deli sandwiches, Atkins Farms in South Amherst is a grocery shopping Mecca for locals looking for a smalltown alternative for filling up the fridge. For the regular shoppers, a stop in the farm store's bakeshop is often the way their grocery shopping trip gets started. “We see a lot of the regulars on Sunday mornings,” says Rihana Hooten, Atkins public relations specialist. “Folks come for their morning coffee and a doughnut, then they shop for their groceries after.” But around this time of year, it's not just locals you'll find perusing the produce shelves or browsing the bakery. Of the nearly 200,000 people who shop at the market on Route 116 every year, the majority comes in the fall – and some make quite the trek. The biggest draws, says Hooten, are the apples and the “Atkins Famous Cider Doughnuts” – moist, spiced, sugared confections that are shipped all across the country, and that reputation brings in shoppers from far beyond the Pioneer Valley. “As the local apples and cider start rolling in, so do the customers. Atkins really is a landmark – people travel from all over New England and marvel at this little farm stand hidden in Western Massachusetts, even though we are much more than a farm stand,” she says. It's true that the business has grown immensely since its humble beginnings more than a century ago, when founder Howard Atkins's grandfather came to South Amherst and planted the region's first Macintosh trees. Over time, the orchards have expanded, the size of the store has swelled, and the variety of items sold has become more and more diverse. But as they’ve focused on growth, there’s also been an effort to

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shrink one aspect of business – their carbon footprint. As Atkins has added more products and offerings, they’ve also been adding more energy-saving, earth-friendly practices.

The Green Blossom Just like the business itself, Atkins’s various green and sustainable initiatives started out small and have evolved over time. “At first, decades ago, it was as simple as recycling,” says Harold Gould, the store’s retired part-owner, who is credited with spearheading the business’s green efforts. In the 1980s, they started out by separating waste into four bins – cardboard, glass and bottles, compost, and garbage – a move that kept their recycled to trash ratio at 3-to-1. Today, all clean cardboard is baled onsite and trucked away

for recycling, cans and bottles are collected, and non-deposit items are recycled through the town landfill. All packaging from outside deliveries are saved and reused or passed along to local farmers to store their products. And 80% of the store’s organic waste goes to a pig farm in Greenfield where it’s composted. “I’m pretty happy to see that,” Gould says. “All of those little things add up to make a difference.” Inside the store, customers do their shopping under the light of 400 LED bulbs that use less than 20 watts each. In the warehouse and even the parking lot, motion sensors keep lights off when they’re not needed. “Every time we make a change, do a renovation or expand, it gives us a chance to look at what we can incorporate to make things a little greener. When we added the new warehouse, coolers were redesigned to include a system that uses heat

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generated from the refrigeration rack to heat our hot water,” Gould notes. “In our kitchens, we replaced low-flow faucets with high-velocity sprayers.” Just behind the store is a 46-kilowatt photovoltaic solar system that generates clean, renewable electrical power to help offset some of the business’s energy costs. Installed in 2011, the solar panel system generates about 10% of the electricity they need to run daily. Other green efforts include the use of a fuel-efficient delivery van, the installation of high-efficiency fan motors in cooler cases, and a storewide transition from petroleum-based to corn-based plastics.

A Ripple Effect For Gould, green efforts at Atkins have become habit. “To me it’s all just a natural thing

to do after so many years,” he says. “It’s not so much about just us – it’s about getting others to see that it only takes a little bit. Maybe if people come shopping here and see it all, it will twist their arm a bit to make a little change in their own life. It doesn’t have to be on such a big scale.” And it seems to be working in small ways. At checkout, Hooten says many customers take advantage of cash saving incentives for bringing in their own reusable shopping bags. “It seems to just have become part of the culture here,” she adds. More and more families are even taking their milk home in reusable glass bottles offered at the store. “Glass milk sales keep increasing – in this day and age, imagine that!” Gould says. “I think we’re rubbing off, and that’s a good thing.”

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How to Have the

t s e B

Parent-Teacher Conference Ever By Melissa Shaw

For many Massachusetts school districts, the days of Fall and Spring parent-teacher conferences are over, leaving a child’s most important personal champions just 20 minutes a year with the student’s most critical educational advocate. It’s not a lot of time, but teachers say parents can make the most of it and establish a solid relationship of communication and support with just a few simple steps.

1. Don’t be nervous “When parents come in to the conference you have to understand as a teacher there’s always a level of anxiety,” says Jennifer Hunt, mother of four, a former first- and secondgrade teacher, and current principal of Clarke Elementary School in Swampscott. Many parents are well aware of benchmark testing, Common Core

standards, MCAS results and the plethora of assessments today’s students undertake, which Hunt believes leads to conference concerns, i.e.: Is my child where he should be? “You want to talk about where students are, where instructionally we want them to be,” she notes. “But I really do think parents come with much more anxiety than teachers do.”

Valerie Sousa, a kindergarten teacher in Ludlow, sees another side of parents: those who are sitting in a conference for the first time. “Because kindergarten is very different today, parents are often shocked at how much we actually

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do now,” she says. “Sometimes it can be extra overwhelming for the new parents coming in because they don’t know what to expect.”

2. Leave preconceived notions about the teacher at the door “On the soccer field or in the waiting room at ballet class, you hear people talking about, ‘Who do you have next year?’ ‘Mrs. So and So.’ ‘Oh, she’s awful!’” notes Heidi Richard, a mother of two and a second-grade teacher in Shrewsbury. “As a parent of school-aged children, I can see this from the other side.” She encourages parents to form their own opinions of teachers for one simple reason: “Different kids interact differently with different adults – just like some adults we meet, we hit it off, and some we immediately can’t stand. ” And Richard takes her own advice professionally, when it comes to students’ reputations. “For the same reason, teachers need to form their own opinions,” she says. “Most schools have some kind of transition meeting between the grade levels at the end of the previous school year. I always tell the teachers that I’m meeting with from the first grade, ‘I don’t want to know your opinion.’ I always tell

them that I want to know things that were helpful to you in the classroom, things that will help me be successful with this student, but I don’t want to know, ‘He’s a trouble maker.’” And this she understands from firsthand experience. “Especially at the elementary age, a summer can make such a difference in maturity for a child. Who they were in June isn’t necessarily who they will be in September,” she adds. “My child, for example, one year in school had meltdowns every single day and then the next year it never happened once. She was just not mature enough the year before to handle not napping and being in school the whole time. Kids change.”

3. If you have concerns, send them in advance Sending your child’s teacher an email ahead of the conference outlining concerns or areas you want to discuss is invaluable – and essential – to a satisfying, efficient meeting. “I appreciate that because it just makes things easier for me to meet with those parents once and have everything they need rather than leave a meeting and not really solve the problem,” Richard says. “It’s

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easier for the parent because they get what they need, and it’s easier for me because I can provide what the parent needs. And a lot of times the things the parent needs are things that are going to make my job easier.” The same concerns pop up year after year, she notes: lack of readinglevel-appropriate materials at home, homework struggles or learning math facts. “Those are common things that come up every year, and it’s easy for me to provide materials for parents or point them in the right direction,” she adds. “I can make sure I have everything they need ready to go. I can have those things there instead of having to set up another meeting and make the parents wait or possibly forgetting about it because you’re dealing with 25 to 30 families.” If parents can’t send an email, Sousa – a mother of two –- says even bringing a written list of questions is helpful. “Now as a parent, I realize it can be crazy because there’s so much information given,” she notes. “Parents who come in with written questions ahead of time are really helpful. I find that when you’re on the spot, you forget things.” Adds Hunt: “The key to parentteacher conferences is being able to hone in on those areas where parents feel like they need support.”

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4. Be a partner Educators say viewing the relationship with the teacher as a partnership will greatly benefit a child. “If that’s the first time you’re meeting, it’s really going to frame your relationship for the entire year,” Richard says. “I like to get off on the right foot the first time around.” For Sousa, the key is “going in there with the attitude that we can both learn off each other.” “I’ve found out things from parents I didn’t realize before that explain some things and vice versa,” she adds. “It’s nice to work off each other.”

5. Don’t be afraid to talk “Sometimes parents come and say ‘Hi,’ then I do all the talking and they leave,” Sousa says. “I don’t want to be the center stage, I want us to both share the stage. I’m showing what I notice at school, and they tell me what they’re noticing at home, instead of me just saying something about school. I want a back and forth. I want to know what is happening at home because it’s definitely intertwined.”

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F inally Forever

Jordan’s Furniture Brings Marketing and Much By Melissa Shaw, Photography by Steven King

walks through his store without fanfare or selfpromotion, but the going is slow for one of the most famous faces in Massachusetts. Eliot Tatelman, president and CEO of Jordan’s Furniture, makes his way across the floor of his Reading store, which though two hours away from opening to the public, is currently jammed with children and adults. He’s stopped seemingly every 5 feet, pausing to crouch down and talk with a face-painted child here, shaking hands happily thrust at him by wideeyed well-wishers there. At one point, he tries to walk by a small crowd and gets pulled into a ring-juggling act. There’s a party going on, for sure, and it has nothing to do with furniture. Early one Sunday morning last month, Jordan’s Reading store hosted The Adoption Option, its annual informational event/party for prospective adoptive families and waiting children. Now in its ninth year, The Adoption Option is the most successful and well-attended event of a partnership between Jordan’s, the Department of Children and Families, 28 NOVEMBER2014 29

and the Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE). The union, which turns 16 in December, has placed 285 children in adoptive homes through its combined efforts. The Jordan’s Initiative, as it’s known, has modest roots. In 1998, the company was approached by MARE officials, who proposed the idea of doing a joint fundraiser around its famous MOM Ride in the Avon store. “Eliot and his brother Barry did what now I know — and love — they do often,” says Lisa Funaro, executive director of MARE, a 57-year-old private nonprofit that serves as the central link between families interested in adoption, DCF, and its contracted adoption agencies. “They said, ‘We want to understand who you are and what you do and why we should partner with you.’” The meeting between MARE and Jordan’s went so well that they – along with DCF – entered into a formal agreement, the Jordan’s Initiative, pledging time, energy and resources toward spreading awareness of fostering and adoption. “It’s easy to write checks,” Tatelman says. “It’s giving of time, energy and making things happen. When you give of time, you’re really giving of

something because you can’t get it back. When you give time like this to try and help kids, to make a difference, to make a match – to make a family – it doesn’t get any better than that.” “Money’s really not the problem, it’s exposure to the cause,” adds Heather Copelas, Jordan’s Public Relations/ Marketing Communications Manager. “Once you start, you meet these kids, you meet these families, you start to see the successes of the initiatives that we do, how do you stop doing that?” “Do you know many places I go, I’m at the supermarket buying something and somebody will come over to me and introduce me to their kid and say, ‘We have him because of you,’ that we met this kid at one of your events,” Tatelman adds. “And they’re a family! It doesn’t get any better than that.” One prime example of time and resources is The Adoption Option, an event Tatelman promotes heavily via TV and radio interviews preceding the date. More than 250 prospective parents who were drawn by the message sat in the Reading store’s IMAX Theater last month to hear a presentation about how the adoption

process works. After the session, social workers, adoption agencies and veteran adoptive families were clustered in various show rooms throughout the store, ready to answer questions and share their experiences with those seeking more information. And while the adults were talking, 96 foster children waiting for homes were playing in the store’s Beantown section, getting temporary tattoos, caricatures, personalized airbrushed caps, or face paint. Jugglers, balloon artists and stilt walkers entertained them while waiters worked the rooms offering trays of breakfast food and drink. Jordan’s foots the bill for the whole thing, just one of many adoption-promotion programs they support, staff and pay for every year. “We’re trying to bring awareness, get people interested,” says the selfproclaimed “marketing guy.” “I don’t think everybody understands what the process is, that if they’re single, that if they’re not rich, that if they’re gay, that they can adopt. The goal is to keep it out there so they realize they can, so once we do that, that piques their interest and the next thing you know they get involved. It’s been very successful in that respect.”

d Much More to Advance Adoption Awareness

“What they’ve been doing for the last 16 years is helping us reframe how we can get our message out,” Funaro says, noting Initiative stakeholders meet every 6-8 weeks to review, analyze and plan future projects and campaigns. “And it’s working. We wouldn’t have learned as much about consumerism, and we wouldn’t have been able to get that huge net out there that Eliot provides for us with public awareness. He’s able — with one radio ad — to make an impact that years and years [of other efforts can’t]. We’ve hit a different market than we were able to do before.” But Initiative officials aren’t naïve; they know they have a long way to go. The minute Tatelman gets on the subject of children waiting for homes, beauracracy that bogs down the process, or cyclical, societal challenges, the smiling, happy, fun icon you know from TV gets very serious. “There’s too many kids out there that don’t have homes, and it’s not fair,” he says. “That’s why we do this. No kid should grow up without a parent. If you look at the statistics of those who don’t get adopted and what happens to them, it’s awful. They don’t accomplish anything for

society, and it’s not their fault. So these kids, through no fault of their own, have been put in this position. It’s our obligation, and we look at it as Jordan’s and as human beings, to not let that happen.” “We don’t profess to be the professionals in this, we do what we can to bring attention to it,” Copelas adds. “We’re constantly going to the staff of DCF to say, ‘We’ve been doing this for 16 years, what do we need to change? What are some new things that we need to do?’” The out-of-the-box thinking is welcome and highly valued, Funaro says. “The one thing that I find incredible about this partnership is they’re always, always, always open to new ideas,” she adds. “Eliot wants to reprocess everything: ‘Should we do this another way?’” Tatelman has another take: “I drive them crazy.” But it pays off, as he points to the Plus One Challenge from several years ago. The Initiative wanted to find more foster families, given that statistics show 60% of foster families will adopt that child. They had Tatelman do a mass-market media blitz pushing the message, but

it didn’t work. So they went back to the drawing board, with Tatelman realizing they needed to narrow their focus. Over a 13-month period, he traveled throughout the state meeting foster parents, realizing they were the best people to recruit and evangelize. He challenged foster parents to talk to their friends, coworkers and acquaintances, and recruit one other foster parent. Anyone who was successful would be invited to a party. “And I know how to throw a party,” he notes with a smile. “We had an amazing party and the only way you could come is if you recruited another foster parent.” The party featured performances from The Marvelettes, The Coasters and The Drifters, but the star of the show may have been the then-DCF commissioner, who announced that the Challenge produced 600 new foster families. “It was amazing because that’s what can happen if you think a little bit differently, a little bit out of the box,” he says. “I realized what it was; it was the same thing we do in furniture. If I’m sending you a special on a mattress and you just bought

a mattress last week, it’s a waste of money and time. So today in the world of communications and the Internet, everybody knows everything about you. So you focus it in: You bought a mattress eight years ago, it’s time for a new one. Now I’m going to send you something to get a mattress. So it’s the same thing: Focus in on how do you get what you want, and in that particular case, it worked.” And while many organizations that have a commitment to adoption have a personal connection to the cause – either as an adoptive parent, sibling or child – there is no personal hook for Tatelman, aside from an obvious belief in finding permanent homes for children. “As long as there’s a kid out there that’s not in a permanent home, we need to find homes for them,” he says. “Every child deserves to be brought up with a parent, somebody to guide them through life; life is tough enough as it is. And not to have somebody to help you and guide you through life is wrong – and that’s why we do this. We want to get every single child that’s out there into a home and with a parent.”

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Timothy is a smart, thoughtful, and funny 13-year-old Caucasian teen. He likes to be active and spends a lot of time outdoors. He enjoys baseball, golf, swimming, music and video games. Tim can sing, although it is not a talent that he often shows off. He also is artistic and enjoys drumming. Now in the eighth grade, Tim has done well in school this year. He has an IEP, which details very specific accommodations, but he remains in a mainstream classroom. Tim is able to maintain positive behaviors at school but has several diagnoses that have not been effectively addressed. Legally free for adoption, Tim wants to be involved in conversations about his placement. He has expressed that he would like to live in the country (outside of the city) with a family that has a dog. Tim has periodic, supervised visitation with a grandmother that he would like to maintain. His social worker feels he would do well in a two-parent or

single-parent home with no other children. For more information regarding Timothy, please call Department of Children and Families (DCF) Adoption Supervisor Rukaiyah Saforo at (508) 929-2095. DCF hosts monthly informational meetings about the adoption process in general at the Worcester Adoption Office, now located at 13 Sudbury Street. For specific details about the next meeting, please call (508) 929-2143.

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS Thursday, November 6 — Healthy Eating Habits and Beyond. 8 p.m. Katja Rowell, M.D. explores why a child may be struggling, how stress and conflict negatively impact eating and weight regulation, and what foster and adoptive parents can do right away to address challenges. $15. Online at adoptionlearningpartners.org Wednesday, November 19 — China Orphanage Partnership Program Webinar. 7 p.m.-8 p.m. WHFC details its new Orphanage Partnership Program in China, which means more help for orphans with special needs and an opportunity for them to find loving families through adoption. Registration at whfc.org. Thursday, November 20 — Online Adoption Information Meeting. 8 p.m.-8:45 p.m. Registration at whfc.org. Friday, November 21 — National Adoption Day Celebration. Hampden County Juvenile Court, 80 State Street, Springfield. Opening ceremony, 9:30 a.m. Finalization ceremonies, speakers, and special events for adoptive families. Through November 24 — The MARE Heart Gallery is on display in Springfield Library, 220 State Street, featuring striking portraits of Massachusetts children in foster care currently awaiting their forever families. springfieldlibrary.org Saturday, November 29 — Forever Family Portrait Day. Genesis, 35 Olympia Avenue,

30 NOVEMBER2014 31

TIMOTHY

Woburn. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Krista Photography is offering free family portraits to families that have adopted or are in the process of adopting one or more children. Families must register via to reserve a spot. Contact kristaphoto.com for more information. Ongoing — Child & Family Services, 28 North Maple Street #4, Florence. Support services for adoptive families. 413-320-4680. 1-800-972-2734. child-familyservices.org/florence/ Ongoing — Massachusetts Approach to Partnerships in Parenting (MAPP) Trainings. Western Regional DCF Office, 140 Main Street, 4th Floor, Springfield. Tuesdays, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Support for foster and adoptive parents. No fee. Registration required. 413-452-3350. mass.gov Ongoing — The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children offers an after-hours telephone hotline that provides emergency assistance to foster kinship and preadoptive families when the DCF offices are closed. The helpline is available 5 p.m. to 9 a.m. on weekdays and 24 hours on weekends and holidays. The number is 800-486-3730. If your group or organization is holding an adoption information or support group and would like to have information posted for readers of baystateparent, please email editor@baystateparent.com.

A Vegan Thanksgiving: Celebration Not Deprivation By Melissa Shaw, Photograpy by Josie and Sailor Photography A year ago, if you asked Cynthia White what she and her family would enjoy for their impending Thanksgiving meal, she would have told you turkey. But just before the holidays, White’s wife Tifani became aware of and read “The China Study,” a 2005 book that examines the correlation between the consumption of animal products and chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. “She started reading it and liked a lot of the ideas, especially around health, and asked if our family could incorporate it,” White said. “I was all in favor of it but I was telling her we should [do so] after the holidays because it’s such a hard time.” Regardless, White, her 14-year-old son and Tifani went vegan before Thanksgiving, enjoying roasted Brussels sprouts (her son’s favorite food), mashed potatoes, cornbread, cranberries and more. “We had a really enjoyable Thanksgiving meal, almost all the typical side dishes you’d have with Thanksgiving, including a vegan apple pie,” she noted. “It was a big change for me and a huge transition, but we really enjoyed our

meal and we’re going to do it again this year.” In fact, White and her family have taken it one step further in the past 12 months and now not only eschew eatting turkey – they raise them in their Florence backyard, which has become a mini-animal sanctuary. “We already had chickens and two rabbits that were bred for meat or lab testing - we rescued them,” she said. “We wanted to rescue turkeys knowing that was a big deal at Thanksgiving.” The family acquired two turkeys this spring, who this month will now enjoy their own special Thanksgiving meal. “We’re going to give our turkeys a special meal with cranberries and grains,” she noted, a tradition observed by other animal sanctuaries. “With the consciousness of the animals in our backyard, it would be amazingly challenging to eat meat again. We just think of them - they have personalities, they’re fun and they’re sweet. Our consciousness went from just health to a much broader spectrum.” The switch also delivered some of the health benefits that initially attracted BAYSTATEPARENTWEST 30 31

For instance, last year the family’s main Thanksgiving dish was a mushroom-and-barley stuffed squash. Sometimes they’ll consult a cookbook for a special holiday meal, search the Internet, or use one of the many meat substitutes that have become popular and widely available in recent years. “Our diet now - because we’re vegan - is so varied. On the holidays, it’s not hard to find a lot of different foods to eat,” he says. The Templetons went vegetarian in the late ’90s and moved to veganism close to a decade ago. Magnolia has been a vegan since birth and an enthusiastic one at that, her parents say. “I think her first or second word was ‘tofu’,” Rob laughed. “She used to call it ’fu.” Her favorite foods include oatmeal, peanut butter, the aforementioned tofu, soups, and a mac and cheese using cashew cream, peas and tofu. “She loves that,” said Hilary, who is expecting the couple’s second child in January. The family is also enjoying a new seasonal treat. “We’ve been doing pumpkin with coconut butter, mixed together with a little but of maple syrup, some cinnamon and nutmeg,” Hilary added. “We call it pumpkin fudge.” White and the Templetons agree it’s easy to bring some variety to your holiday meal or diet, even if you eat meat. Many meat-eating families practice a “meatless Monday” to switch things up. It’s also simple to swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth in many recipes or use meat substitutes, such as those from Field Roast Grain Meat Co. or Gardein. And Templeton says anyone can spice up the same-old, same-old side dishes with a trip to their computer. “You can Google any recipe you can think of,” he noted. “Type vegan + that recipe and you will get a litany of options.”

them to the vegan lifestyle. “This year my blood work for my annual physical came back better than it has been my entire life,” she noted. White added she doesn’t want to “sugarcoat” her transition to veganism, at times it was challenging, especially thinking she would miss eggs and cheese. However, she discovered a world of substitutes and new foods that replaced old favorites. “The cravings go away,” she said. “Since we’ve become vegan, I have eaten such variety in my diet that I never had before, international foods, grains I’ve never tried, vegetables and fruits that I had never tried. I keep telling people it’s not deprivation, it’s a celebration.” White says she now enjoys new dishes, learning to make a mean Chana Saag (a classic Indian spinach and chickpea dish) and a faux beef stew with a mushroom base that’s so good, “I could drink the broth. I was such a big beef stew fan for years.” She’s also found a special recipe for holiday breakfasts. “On the holidays we’ll have a special breakfast, but my son never liked French toast, he didn’t like the eggy taste to it,” she said. “As soon as we made vegan French toast he asks for it a lot.” “There’s so much food people may think vegans go without,” notes Rob Templeton of Deerfield. He, his wife Hilary and 4-year-old daughter Magnolia are all vegans. “They think ‘poor vegans.’ We always have, just like any diet, more than enough amazing food around Where Family Fun is Guaranteed! the holidays.” While a turkey is the centerpiece of the Thanksgiving meal, Templeton says overall it’s just one part of the traditional meal. “A lot of the things that people eat, I don’t think they realize how much of their meal is vegan or vegetarian,” he noted.

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Dishin’ with the Dietitian

Is Frozen as Good as Fresh?

How the Frozen Food Department helps make wholesome meals a cinch. BY CARRIE TAYLOR, RDN, LDN

Compare for yourself: Ever find a mouthwatering recipe online you swear you are going to make immediately — only to forget and then subsequently find the fresh ingredients in your refrigerator well past their “use-by” dates? We’ve all done it. Luckily, there is one secret to saving your food dollars and recipe inspirations: your freezer. If you haven’t perused the Frozen Food Department of your local grocer for more than ice cream in recent months, you’re missing aisles of instant meal solutions. Regardless of food restrictions you or your family members may have, a bounty of options is right at your fingertips. Worried the selections in the Frozen Food Department aren’t as nutritious as the Produce Department? Don’t be. Frozen vegetables and fruit are simply fresh foods frozen to keep them fresh.

Item Broccoli Carrots Green beans Blueberries Strawberries Raspberries *No sauce or sugar added

Fresh NuVal Score 100 100 100 100 100 91

Frozen NuVal Score 100 100 100 100 100 91

NuVal Scores range from 1 to 100. The higher the score, the more nutritious the food! Looking to add protein punch to meals without excess fat or salt? My newest favorites in the Frozen Department are frozen beans.

Item Frozen Shelled Edamame (soybeans) Frozen Edamame in the Pod Frozen Kidney Beans Frozen Garbanzo Beans (chick peas) Frozen Black Beans

NuVal Score 100 100 100 100 100

Another great thing about frozen produce: All the prep work is done for you. Picked fresh on the farm, frozen fruits and vegetables are washed, chopped and flash frozen so all you need to do is add them to your recipes: Five-Minutes-Prep Chili: Toss frozen bell pepper slices, onion, garlic and beans into your slow cooker with canned tomatoes and spices. Gluten-free Get-together: Offer a balanced meal with a delicious frozen gluten-free pizza, side of vegetables, and berries. Carrie Taylor is the lead registered dietitian nutritionist for the Living Well Eating Smart program at Big Y Foods. Have a nutrition question? E-mail livingwell@bigy.com or write Living Well at 2145 Roosevelt Ave, PO Box 7840, Springfield, MA 01102

Would you like to be featured in a future issue of baystateparent? Send your question to editor@baystateparent.com and you might soon be Dishin’ with the Dietitian!

BAYSTATEPARENTWEST 32 33

Turkey Talk:

fter spending hours roasting your turkey to perfection, it (and you) deserves more than a sandwich the day after. With a little creative pre-shopping and stocking of refrigerators and cupboards, you can take your Day 2 turkey from boring to amazing – and nutritious. Enjoying delicious meals doesn’t have to mean blowing the bank on calories. Simple, fresh ingredients that are full of nutrition and flavor can take leftover turkey to a different level, says Marisa Paolillo, nutritionist with NuVal.

When planning for the big harvest meal (and the day-after dishes to follow), you can rely on tools such as the NuVal Nutritional Scoring System. Many grocery retailers now provide these scores on the shelf tag to help shoppers find more nutritious food choices. Based on a scale of 1 to 100, foods and beverages are scored based on their nutritional content, with the most nutritious choices scoring highest. The experts at NuVal suggest putting these power-packed foods on your pre-Thanksgiving grocery list. Both fresh and nutritious, these ingredients can create new menu options for turkey leftovers. Spice it: Pair reheated turkey

Bites Take Leftovers Beyond a Sandwich Inspired Ideas for Day 2 Turkey

with baked spiced apples. Core and slice fresh apples (NuVal 100) and combine with raisins (NuVal 88), chopped pecans (NuVal 71), cinnamon and lemon. Roast for 30 minutes at 375 degrees. No need to add sugar. The apples provide all the sweetness you need.

Wrap it: For a lighter take on the traditional leftover turkey sandwich, chop cold turkey into small pieces and layer with raw vegetables, avocado (NuVal 88), mustard, Romaine lettuce (NuVal 100), tomatoes (NuVal 100), sliced red or green bell peppers (NuVal 100), shredded carrots (NuVal 100) and cucumbers (NuVal 100) in a tortilla wrap. Curry it: Need a quick 30-minute post-Thanksgiving meal that is both savory and sweet? NuVal’s pick is Curried Turkey with Raisins and Mushrooms. The recipe works really well with leftover turkey and it’s simple to make. The meal combines protein-rich turkey with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the sweet, spicy tones of raisins and curry. Find more recipes and ideas for nutrient-rich ingredients to spice up your holiday dishes at nuval.com. Family Features

34 NOVEMBER2014 35

Curried Turkey with Raisins and Mushrooms 1 1/2 12 2 2 1/2 2 1 2 1 1/2

teaspoons extra virgin olive oil (NuVal 18) ounces boneless, skinless turkey breast diced into one-inch cubes (NuVal 57) cups fresh white mushrooms (NuVal 100) cups sliced cremini mushrooms (NuVal 100) medium red or green bell peppers, chopped into squares (NuVal 100) cups chicken or turkey broth cup raisins (NuVal 88) cups instant whole grain rice (NuVal 91) tablespoons curry powder Basil leaves, chopped (NuVal 100)

• Heat extra virgin olive oil in large saute pan. • With heat on medium high, heat up leftover turkey in pan. If turkey is raw, cook turkey strips at least 5 minutes. • Add mushrooms and peppers and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. • Add broth. Mix in raisins, rice and curry powder. • Bring to boil then reduce heat and cover. Simmer until rice is done. • Fluff with fork, remove from heat. • Let sit 3 to 5 minutes and garnish with basil before serving.

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INDEX A Dream Come True Learning Centers....35 Amherst Pediatrics...............................23 Arbors Kids..........................................3 ArtLitSol Photography...........................25 Atkins Farm.........................................9 Baystate Health..................................40 Berkshire Bank...................................24 Big Y..................................................2 Brain Balance.....................................14 Bricks 4 Kidz......................................35 Brighter Beginnings.............................35 Cathedral..........................................26 Common School, The..........................25 Country Bank.......................................6 Eric Carle Museum..............................19 FMC Ice Sports....................................3 Little Friends Child Care Center..............35 Log Cabin - Delaney............................27 Longmeadow Montessori School...........16 Macduffie School..................................9 New 2 You Consignment.....................35 Nursing Bra Express.............................39 Oak Meadow......................................15 Pediatric Associates of Hampden County............................................35 Thompsons Gymnastics........................35 UMass Fine Arts Center........................39 Village School, The...............................9 Wilbraham Monson Academy.................23

take eight

with Nick Deysher

Leeds award-winning children’s duo, In The Nick of Time, are back with their latest release, “Fun O’ Clock”. One of the coolest things about lead singer Nick Deysher - aside from his music - is that he is also a full-time preschool teacher at the Smith College Center for Early Childhood Education at Fort Hill. We had a chance to talk with Nick about the evolution of children’s music, the key to performing for children, and the most surprising aspect of a preschool classroom parents don’t know.

What usually comes first: the music or subject of the song, i.e., “I want to write a song about telling time”? It really depends. I think when I was first starting out, I planned out the songs I wanted to write to fit with the curriculum I was developing at school (“I need a song about dinosaurs” or “I should write a song about the autumn”). Sometimes I start with a musical style or genre, “Why don’t I write a blues song about running out of green paint?” Sometimes a simple phrase will spark my interest and get my creative juices flowing. This happened when I wrote “The Otter Song.” I got the phrase “In the water there’s an otter” stuck in my head, and the song almost wrote itself. Now that people know I write kids’ music, I get lots of suggestions!

How would you describe the evolution of children’s music today, compared with the artists of your childhood? I feel that each generation of parents tends to discover quality kids’ music, and think it is a revolution. There is a misconception that kids’ music equals children singing “The Wheels on the Bus” slightly out of tune to a xylophone. The reality is that there have been people making great music for kids for decades. If you think about the music Sesame Street was producing in the late ’60s, or even the elegant jazz music that Mr. Rogers had live in the studio for each episode, there is a long tradition of quality music for kids. When I was growing up in the ’80s there was a lot of folk influence in the kids music scene. I have audiocassettes of musicians like Bill Harley and Barry Louis Polisar, who did great work with one voice and one guitar. I still draw inspiration from their music today, and they are still out there playing for kids.

You’ve been called “The Toddler Whisperer” - what is the secret to connecting with young children? Often people underestimate children. They are very intuitive, and they can tell in an instant if someone is not being genuine. Talking down to a child or using an exaggerated tone of voice, in my opinion, doesn’t help you connect with a child. I’ve often had parents ask me, “How do I get my child to stop using baby talk? It really bugs me!” My response is, they are modeling the way they hear you talk to them. I always greet a child with a big smile, I always get down to their level, and I always express genuine interest in what they have to say or show me, even if it’s a funny-shaped pebble. As adults we are conditioned to look past something as simple as a pebble and get on with our day. For an infant or toddler who is experiencing the world for the first time, there is a lot of wonder in a simple pebble. I think we’d all be a lot happier if we could take a moment to find joy in the simple things.

In addition to recording and performing, you’re also a preschool teacher. What is the most surprising aspect of a preschool classroom, one parents may not realize? Children are constantly modeling and acting out things that they see in their daily life. Dramatic play is a way for children to make sense of the people and relationships that are important to them. They practice being adults, sometimes to great comic effect. Children are like little sponges. I think what most parents may not realize is that everything that they say or do will eventually come out in the classroom. I have been privy to some of the most intimate details of family life for my students. A preschooler will proudly tell me something embarrassing that happened at home, punctuating it with, “My mommy told me not to say that!” 38 NOVEMBER2014 39

What is the key to performing for children? You know, I have seen a lot of children’s performers. I make it a point to support the community of kids musicians. I think the key is knowing who your audience is. I have seen some big name kids acts that really surprised me, delivering the entire show to the parents instead of the tiny fans who lined the stage. I have heard political diatribes and lengthy song introductions that bored me as an adult. It takes a certain type of performer to be engaging and inspiring to young kids. I do my best to spend my whole show making meaningful eye contact with the fans who are dancing and singing along, Tracey [Deysher’s wife and duo partner] often gets down and dances with the crowd, and above all else you need to know when to wrap things up. Going one song over when the crowd is due for a nap can be the difference between a great show and a series of meltdowns in the parking lot!

Any musical genres or subjects you want to write for/about but have yet to? That is a good question. In The Nick of Time is all about eclecticism. I have made it my mission to expose young children to the gambit of musical styles. As I wrap up each album, I often think, “Wow, I’ve done it all! What on earth am I going to write about next?” Somehow the inspiration always comes, and I find new musical territories that I have yet to explore. After a great stint in South Florida, Tracey and I are excited to be back in Massachusetts where we grew up. We have a lot of contacts, musical friends and relatives. For the last four albums I’ve composed, played, and produced much of the music on my own. I think for our next album I’d really like to try something more live, to get all the talented people I love playing with together, and see what happens.

Any plans to write music for adults? I have always had “adult” projects going in addition to my kids music. When In The Nick of Time was first getting off the ground, and Tracey and I were in Boston, I played with a funk band called Johnny Most. The keyboard player and co-songwriter Brian Hibbard still plays with us to this day, as well as my brother Seth, who is an excellent bass player and backs us up when In The Nick of Time plays with a full band. Recently Tracey and I have formed a folk/rock group called 100% Charles with Bill Drummy.” I think writing “grown-up” music Pa keeps me sane, but I’ve always thought of bl o kids music as my niche. I did the bar G ar scene when I was in my 20s, ab ot coming home at ti P 3 a.m. and ho getting up at 6 to a.m. to teach preschool. These days, I’d rather play a concert at 10:30 a.m. and be done for the day by noon!

What were some of your musical influences growing up, and which artists do you enjoy today? I admit that I was a bit sheltered as a child. We were only allowed to watch PBS and listen to my parents’ vinyl collection growing up. I missed the whole Hair Metal and New Wave scene in the ’80s, happily listening to old Beatles, Billy Joel, Paul Simon, and James Taylor records. When I started to branch out on my own and started to play bass, then guitar, grunge was just breaking into the mainstream. It was a great time to be a teenager with a garage band. I guess my tastes fall into the indie rock spectrum. I have always loved Radiohead and Beck for their ability to constantly reinvent themselves. As for new groups that really inspire me, I love Lake Street Dive, First Aid Kit, and a quirky duo called Sylvan Esso, which has a great synth-pop sound. At the end of the day my influences (and In The Nick of Time’s inspiration) are broad ranging. It’s hard to pin it down. One day I might be obsessed with ’60s jazz, and then the next I might be burning a hole in a Debussy album. I find inspiration everywhere.

ON STAGE JEREMY DENK, piano

MARTHA GRAHAM DANCE COMPANY

THE JACK DEJOHNETTE TRIO

Thursday, November 13, 7:30 p.m. Bowker Auditorium

Tuesday, November 18, 7:30 p.m. Fine Arts Center Concert Hall

Featuring Ravi Coltrane and Matt Garrison Friday, November 21, 8 p.m. Bowker Auditorium

Denk performs a program of Haydn, Janácek, Schubert, Mozart and Schumann. A conversation with Jeremy at 5 p.m. in the Amherst Room, UMass Campus Center, Free Event Sponsors: Applewood, 88.5 NEPR, Hotel UMass

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