Cache Valley Family Magazine Holiday 2014 by Cache Valley Family Magazine

WINTER 2014

Inside Cache Valley Family Traditions, p. 20 Create a Home for the Holidays, p. 6

Holiday Edition

Understanding the Basics of Colds, p. 30 Six Things To Do With Thanksgiving Leftovers, p. 15

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Years

Thank you caregivers A s we celebrate a 100-year history,

Logan Regional Hospital honors the caregivers who, during the past century, have gone above and beyond administering medicines and treatments to serve the communities of the valley.

Holiday Wishes From the Editor... There is nothing quite like the first snowfall of the season. The brightness of it brings a unique giddiness and sense of urgency that seems to yank me out of bed, along with the sweet exclamations of my little ones as they come rushing into my room: “It’s snowing, it’s snowing, it’s snowing!” “It’s Christmas!” “This is the best day ever!” and this year, of course, “Do you want to build a snowman?” They are dressed to sled and play faster than I can get my shoes on. It is like it is Mother Nature’s way of kicking off the holiday season. It makes my heart sing (despite the fact I know there is long winter ahead), and the lyrics from a favorite old movie, Mame, start running through my head: “Haul out the holly; Put up the tree before my spirit falls again. Fill up the stocking; I may be rushing things, but deck the halls again now. For we need a little Christmas, Right this very minute, Candles in the window, Carols at the spinet....” There is a magic to the holidays. The music, the lights, the snow! It is the perfect setting for creating memories with dear family and friends and pausing to remember the things we are most grateful for. Among those is the great community we live in. How lucky we are to have wonderful neighbors, schools and businesses in our Valley. These things create, in my opinion, the greatest place in the world to raise a family. So, thank you, for being a part of our great Cache Valley. No matter what your holiday celebrations bring, from our family to yours, we wish it to be a season of rejoicing, happiness and love. GH_CVF_LOGAN_NOV_14.pdf

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What’s INSIDE PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Emily Buckley COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Nicole Leavitt Photography PHOTOGRAPHY Mandy Bagley, Shooting Star Photography CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mark Anderson Jonathan Badger Alex Baird, MS, LMFT Tara Bone Emily Buckley Pam Chapman, RD, CDE Sherelle Christensen Marshal Garrett Margaret Gittins Erin Griffeth Robyn Hedgecock Curt Jenkins Kinsey Love Barrett Labrum, DO Jenny Mathews Breanne Miller Ben Morrill Sarah Romero Mandy Schiess Tim Smith Christie Stock Lauren Wallentine GRAPHIC DESIGN Rachel Cottrell Raschelle Goodman Emily Buckley WEBSITE DESIGN Kite Media Cache Valley Family Magazine is a free, trusted resource designed to inform, serve and enrich local parents and families throughout Cache Valley. Material in this publication is copyright 2014, Cache Valley Family Magazine. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission of the publisher is prohibited. The views expressed in the magazine are the views of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Please send all editorial correspondence to info@cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com or by mail to PO Box 6831, North Logan, UT 84341. All correspondence is sent on a non-confidential basis and Cache Valley Family Magazine shall be free to reproduce, publish, edit and/or use any such communications. All materials become property of Cache Valley Family Magazine.

PHONE 435.764.0962 MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 6831 North Logan, UT 84341 EMAIL info@cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com FACEBOOK facebook.com/ cachevalleyfamilymagazine TO ADVERTISE call 435.764.0962 or email ads@cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com

Featured Stories:

Cache Valley Family Holiday Traditions — p. 20 Creating a Home for the Holidays — p. 6 A Stress-Free Guide to Holiday Entertaining — p. 28 Project Teddy Bear — p. 10 Light Your Home for Christmas — p. 19 Craig Jessop: A Lifetime of Musical Experience — p. 13 7 Tips to Make Holiday Grocery Shopping a Cinch — p. 14 Health Reform: The Only Constant is Change — p. 26 Featured Holiday Events:

Live Nativity Celebrates the Reason for the Season — p. 18 A Christmas Carol: A Holiday Ghost Story — p. 18

In Every Issue:

AGES AND STAGES:

Growing Up: Sharing the Joy of Service With Your Children— p. 34

Around the Table:

From the Farmer’s Wife — p. 12 Six Things To Do With Thanksgiving Leftovers — p. 15

Healthy Family:

Understanding the Basics of Colds — p. 30 Beating Seasonal Affective Disorder — p. 11 Fit Family: Staying Fit and Healthy for the Holidays — p. 16 The Trendy Mom: Dressing for Family Photos — p. 33 Family Firsts: The Tradition That Never Was — p. 22

Safe Families:

Holiday Shopping Safety Tips — p. 8 Winter Driving, Safety and Preparedness 101 — p. 36

Education Update:

Give Your Children the Gift of Reading — p. 24 SAGE Testing Results — p. 25

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4

Creating a HOME for the HOLIDAYS For other decorating tips and ideas, visit: www.ontheavenuelogan.blogspot.com Mandy Schiess, owner, On The Avenue Home Decor & Gifts

For as long as I can remember, Christmas has been my favorite day of the year. As a child I remember anxiously awaiting my parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s approval for us to dash into the front room to see what Santa brought. I remember the taste of the homemade banana bread we ate while opening presents. I remember wrapping paper being scattered everywhere as we enjoyed the gifts that were left under the tree. I remember the simple, magical feeling of having our family together: It was as though the world had stopped and nothing was expected of any of us for the day. Oh, how I treasure those memories and feelings from childhood! I now find myself recreating that same Christmas excitement in my own home, and for my own family, each holiday season. I must admit I start thinking about Christmas as soon as the air turns crisp. For me, one month just isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enough of the Christmas smells, food or decorations. A couple of years ago a friend and I decided to start working on Christmas in September. We got together once a week from September to November and began creating for the Christmas season ahead. She has a great talent for sewing, and I love woodworking. We shared our talents with each other, and by the time the month of December rolled around my home was transformed into a beautiful Christmas oasis. I learned so much about creating MY perfect Christmas home that year.

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4 I believe creating the perfect Christmas home is all about finding the style you love, and then bringing it to life. I prefer a rustic, country feel, and I absolutely love decorating every inch of my home. I have trees of all sizes in every room (including a rooster tree in my kitchen). You may be thinking, ”This lady is crazy,” because decorating an entire home can be a HUGE undertaking. However, by following these five tips you too can create a cozy Christmas feeling in your home with ease and enjoyment (and on a budget!):

Tip 1 – Don’t Be Afraid to Start Early: Start collecting or making things that match your style months before the Christmas season. I love the handcrafted look, but I definitely don’t have time to make it all during the month of December, so I start early. Tip 2 – Set the Mood With Holiday Smells and Sounds: I love burning candles and melting wax cubes throughout our home. I prefer spicy cinnamon smells during the Christmas season. It is also fun to listen to Christmas music or watch Christmas movies while decorating. Tip 3 – Use What You Have: I love incorporating photos of my children into my tree décor. Purchase small frames at the dollar store and spray paint them to match your décor. Wrap dollar store ornaments in your favorite fabric. This year I purchased large bouncy balls and wrapped them in burlap. They look fantastic. Tip 4 – Have Your Decorations Up By December 1: This allows you to enjoy the fun of the holiday season without worrying about decorating. Tip 5 – Find Your Own Style: If it looks and feels good to you, stick to it!

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4

Holiday Shopping Safety Tips

Erin Griffeth, community services coordinator Cache County Sheriff’s Office

• Do not use the same password for multiple website accounts. If one account gets compromised, the danger of other accounts being compromised increases if the user names and passwords are identical or similar. • Beware of “bargains” from companies with whom you are unfamiliar — if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. • Use secure web sites for purchases. Look for the icon of a locked padlock on the screen or “https” in the URL address. • Shop with companies you know and trust. Other Safety Tips • Phone and online scams abound during the holidays, preying on innocent victims who want to reach out and help others in need. Please take the time to verify “family emergencies” before sending any money to help a loved one. • Save all your receipts. Print and save all confirmations from your online purchases too. This will help you verify that all charges on your credit card are legitimate. • Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your card is lost, stolen, or misused.

The winter holiday season is a magical time of year.

Taking a few preventive safety measures can help make your holiday season the “most wonderful time of the year!”

The twinkling lights, beautiful decorations, and joy of giving transforms the everyday mundane into holiday extraordinaire. Yet, the holidays are usually accompanied with stress, tension and, unfortunately, an increase in crime.

Tips provided by the National Crime Prevention Council (www.ncpc.org) and Los Angeles Police Department.

Following are a few tips to help you become less vulnerable to crime during the holiday season. Shopping in Stores • • • • • • • • •

Shop during daylight hours whenever possible, and go with a friend or family member. If shopping at night, park in well-lit areas close to the entrance. Never leave your shopping cart with your purse or other valuables, children included, unattended. Do not buy more than you can carry. Clear visibility and freedom of motion are important self-protection habits. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Wait until asked before taking out your credit card, and do not allow anyone to “shoulder surf” to get your account information. Be extra careful if you carry a wallet or purse. They are prime targets for criminals in crowded shopping areas and transportation terminals. Carry your purse close to your body or your wallet inside a coat or front trouser pocket. Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle. Check the back seat and around your car before getting in. Stay alert to your surroundings! Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. If you feel uncomfortable, walk back into the store. Do not leave packages visible in your car windows. Lock them in the trunk or, if possible, take them directly home.

Shopping Online • •

Before surfing the Internet, secure your personal computers by updating security software. Keep your personal information private and your passwords secure. Do not respond to requests to “verify” your password or credit card information unless you initiated the contact.

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These centers have the mission of preventing and treating child abuse through education, therapy and outreach. Crisis nurseries are available for children who have been abused, snuggly, cute, nonare in danger of being abused or are awaiting placement in judgmental, good lisa foster home. A soft teddy bear to hug during these times teners. I’m sure your of trauma or loneliness is a great comfort to the children. childhood teddy bear At-risk children also undergo therapy sessions at the cennever revealed a seters throughout the year. A teddy bear gives them somecret that you shared thing to hold during sessions, provides much-needed comin confidence. Teddy fort and helps in the healing process. It may also be the bears have come to be only Christmas present a child receives. accepted as a universal symbol for a soft, Stuffed animals have proven to be effective companions snuggly companion. and means of comfort for many children at these outreach That is why Lewiston centers. At a local center during one play therapy session, a State Bank is hosting child was able to share her feelings in a safe way. its first-annual Project Kinsey Love, marketing manager Teddy Bear this holiLewiston State Bank Other children have benefited from bears when transitioning day season. between foster homes, being removed from an unsafe home environment or simply receiving a gift they can call their own. Customers, employees and community members can donate teddy bears and other stuffed animals that will be We encourage all members of the community to help us given to the Child and Family Support Center in Logan and gather stuffed animals and give a hug and hope to children Community Abuse Prevention Services Agency in Logan. in need this Christmas. Beginning November 20, customers and community memBring your new or clean, gently used stuffed animals to a bers can begin dropping off new or clean, gently used Lewiston State Bank branch, located in Preston, Lewiston, stuffed animals at any Lewiston State Bank branch. In midNorth Logan and Logan, from November 20 to December December the teddy bears and other stuffed animals will 15, and help us make a difference in the lives of many chilbe donated to the two support centers. dren this holiday season.

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Beating SAD

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4

7 Tips For Dealing With Seasonal Affective Disorder

Alex Baird, MS, LMFT

With the falling leaves and cold weather, some people begin to feel the excitement of the holidays and all that comes with it. But this is not the case for everyone. For many, the approach of fall and winter comes with feelings of dread and sadness. This may be an indication of what is commonly referred to as the Winter Blues or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Symptoms of SAD include loss of interest in pleasurable activities, weight changes, increased need for sleep, drastic mood changes, sadness, and difficulty concentrating. If this rings true for you or someone you care about, here are some remedies you may want to try to alleviate winter suffering: Talk About It: You don’t have to go through it alone. Try talking to a friend or family member. Sometimes just venting can bring relief.

All it takes to get the happy chemicals going in the brain is a few minutes of elevated heart rate. So, do some jumping jacks, go up and down the stairs in your Vitamins: One of the problems that house, do push-ups or run in place. Recomes with cooler weather is that we member, the goal is to get happy chemispend more time indoors and miss out cals released in your brain, not train for on the vitamins provided by sunlight. In- an Olympic event. vest in vitamin D and a vitamin B complex to boost your mood. Try Something New: Folks who enjoy fall and winter will tell you about Sunlight: Try to sneak some sunlight in things they look forward to. Common any chance you get. Sit on your porch ones are cuddling under a blanket for a few minutes on a sunny afternoon with a good book, wearing a favorite (bundle up if it’s cold!), and soak up sweater, eating fall foods and catchsome of the natural nourishment. ing up on favorite TV shows. These are ideas of things to try; if it makes some Exercise: You don’t have to go to a gym people happy, it may work for you, too. or run outside in freezing temperatures.

Journaling: Staying positive when feel-

ing depressed can feel like a near-impossible task. Try getting into the habit of coming up with at least 10 things you’re grateful for, each day, and write them in your journal (or any piece of paper). This will get you thinking positively. Journaling can also be a great way to vent and clear your mind.

Professional Help: If your symptoms

are severe (including suicidal thoughts), and you don’t feel relief from self-help techniques, seek professional help. A therapist or your family doctor are great places to go for assistance with the battle to beat SAD.

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4

With the Holidays quickly approaching, many of us will be giving and receiving baked goods. I love to put together a simple plate of our family-favorite cookies and deliver them to neighbors and friends. Last year, I made some of our favorite cookies, and out of 15 plates we delivered, 12 people asked for this recipe. These delicious Soft Molasses Cookies ooze holiday goodness! Ginger, cloves and cinnamon, mixed with molasses, give them that old-fashioned taste of grandma’s fresh baked gingersnaps, and their soft, chewy texture, combined with the delicious coating of white chocolate make them hard to resist. I hope you’ll give them a try this holiday season, and don’t forget to enjoy the delicious aroma that fills your house when they’re baking. Sherelle Christensen www.sherellechristensen.typepad.com

Soft Molasses Cookies -1/2 c. butter, softened -1/2 c. solid vegetable shortening -1 1/2 c. sugar -1/2 c. molasses -2 eggs, lightly beaten -4 c. flour -1/2 tsp. salt -2 1/4 tsp. baking soda -2 1/4 tsp. ground ginger -1 1/2 tsp. ground cloves -1 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon -white chocolate or almond bark for dipping In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, shortening, and sugar until light colored and fluffy. Beat in molasses and eggs. Set mixture aside. In another bowl, combine flour, salt, soda, ginger, cloves and cinnamon. Blend thoroughly with whisk. Gradually mix flour mixture into creamed ingredients until blended and smooth. Roll dough into 1 1/2” balls. Roll dough balls in granulated sugar and place on a greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 9-10 minutes. Remove and cool on wire rack. Dip 1/2 of cookie in white almond bark or white chocolate. Place on waxed paper after dipping until cooled and chocolate is set. Store in tightly covered container.

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4

Craig Jessop has been the artistic director of the American Festival Chorus and Orchestra since its inception in 2008. They will perform their annual Christmas From Ellen Eccles Theatre December 5 and 6, tickets are available online at www.cachearts.org.

An interview with Dr. Craig Jessop:

A Lifetime of Musical Experience

Emily Buckley, editor-in-chief

The holidays, and especially Christmas, all seem to be associated with music. Craig Jessop, artistic director of the American Festival Chorus and Orchestra, can’t imagine a holiday season that didn’t involve music in a major way. In fact, even his first Christmas is tied to a chorus of holiday carols. “I was born December 11, 1949, at the old Logan Hospital,” he said. “Mom ended up in the hospital for two weeks after my birth, and her fondest memory of that time was during the ‘great blizzard of ’49.’ Despite the deep snow outside, carolers came through to comfort people in the hospital. What she remembers most was them singing Silent Night. That is a pretty special memory for my mother who was recovering with a brand new baby boy at Christmastime.” Fast forward 15 years, Dr. Jessop recalls his first appointment as a music director. “Growing up in Millville, my friends and I started the Millville Youth Choir,” he said. “For three years in a row we had fund-raising activities to buy Christmas gifts for children, and then went to Primary Children’s Hospital and Shriner’s Hospital in Salt Lake, to present a Christmas program and give the gifts to the kids. “I have been doing Christmas concerts literally my entire life,” Jessop said. “These are some pretty great memories.” The tradition continued through his years as an undergraduate student at Utah State University and, of course, during his tenure with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. “One thing I’m

very proud of from that time are the Choir’s PBS Christmas specials,” Dr. Jessop said. “The first Christmas in the Conference Center was in 2000, which was our first PBS Christmas Special and included the Orchestra at Temple Square. It was the number one Christmas Event on PBS nationwide, and it just got better and better each year. I am proud to have been a part of that.” When Dr. Jessop returned to USU as a professor of music and the founding Dean for the Caine College of the Arts, it was no surprise that he would do great things. In 2008 he founded the American Festival Chorus, which brings together 220 singers from a 90-mile radius including faculty and students from USU and community members. Dr. Jessop and the chorus present five performances each year in Logan, in addition to ongoing collaborations with the Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theatre and with Sun Valley Entertainment. “During its first two years the American Festival Chorus performed a Christmas concert at the Kent Concert Hall [on the USU campus],” Dr. Jessop said. “But we wanted to be downtown at Ellen Eccles Theatre, a place that has so many collective memories of Cache Valley. So we started Christmas from Ellen Eccles Theatre.” Dr. Jessop has spent nearly 65 years enjoying, teaching and performing music. “The power of music is profound,” he said. “It can alter the human soul and can create emotions that are almost unspeakable. I have spent a lifetime involved in music, and, for that, I am very grateful.”

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4

Seven Tips

To Make Holiday Grocery Shopping a Cinch! Jonathan Badger, Lee’s Marketplace

The countdown to Thanksgiving dinner other holiday celebrations is on! This is one of the most exciting times of year for many people and businesses, including grocery stores. While we love the energy of the holiday season, we don’t want our guests to feel overly stressed by the tasks they must complete when they visit our stores, so here are some ideas to help you check to-dos off your lists without overly stretching your pocketbooks. 1. Shop the Sales: During the holidays we have thousands of items on sale. Many of them are specialty items for the holiday season. For example, Lee’s Honey Glazed Holiday Hams are only available between Thanksgiving and Christmas, and a couple weeks leading up to Easter. 2. Shop at the Right Time: Our stores will be the busiest November 25 and 26 and again on December 24. To avoid the crowds consider doing your shopping on different days or early in the morning or later at night. 3. Plan Your Menus: Create full menus and shopping lists for meals you’ll need, especially when you are expect ing company so you don’t over shop without a plan at the last minute. 4. Don’t Underestimate Leftovers: When you plan your menus and make your

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4 shopping lists, shop for what you need to transform leftovers into another meal. (See Six Things You Can Do With Thanksgiving Leftovers to the right.) 5. Choose a Bird to Fit Your Budget: We offer turkeys in several varieties. Let our team help you pick out the best product at the best price. Turkeys are also a healthy choice for the holidays. 6. Buy Some Baked Goods: The Lee’s bakery makes handmade, from scratch pumpkin pie and dinner rolls with the same wholesome ingredients you use at home, so it may be worth buying time instead of ingredients. Place your special orders on these holi day favorites to ensure availability. 7. Take Advantage of Our Friendly Service: Our team is here to help. Don’t be shy. Let us help you make the holidays easy and affordable. Remember our team members are dedicated to making sure you enjoy your shopping experience, so be sure to ask them for help along your merry way.

Six Things To Do With Thanksgiving Leftovers Sarah Romero, contributing writer

When Thanksgiving dinner is over, you’re often left with heaping piles of turkey and bowls of cranberry sauce. Rather than eat the same meal for the next three days, mix it up with these six delicious recipes. Whether you’re in the mood for a soup, salad, sandwich, dessert or savory comfort food, these recipes will use up the turkey while giving your family some variety. 1. Turkey Chili Inspired by Deer Valley Resort’s famous turkey chili, this hearty soup makes leftover turkey taste amazing. Use extra rolls to dip in the soup. 2. Turkey, Brie and Cranberry Panini This simple Panini makes a great lunch or dinner for the day after Thanksgiving. Use leftover rolls or choose your favorite type of bread. Between slices, spoon some cranberry sauce on top of turkey and Brie cheese, and then grill until the cheese is melted. 3. Turkey Waldorf Salad After a heavy dinner the night before, this healthy salad is a refreshing way to use leftover turkey. This traditional Waldorf salad combines celery, grapes, apples, walnuts and turkey in a deliciously creamy dressing. 4. Cranberry Carrot Muffins Cranberry carrot muffins are a unique way to use leftover cranberry sauce. These tasty muffins make a great breakfast or snack. 5. Turkey Shepherd’s Pie Too many mashed potatoes and veggies? This shepherd’s pie combines turkey and veggies in a savory sauce, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s the perfect comfort food for the days after Thanksgiving. 6. Apple Cranberry Crisp Use your leftover cranberry sauce in this apple cranberry crisp. Brown sugar and oat crumbles melt into the sweet filling of apples and cranberries, creating a tasty dessert to top with vanilla ice cream. For full recipes visit: www.cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com/recipes

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4

Staying Fit and Healthy for the

Holidays

By Pam Chapman, RD CDE registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator and NCCPT certified personal trainer

The holiday season

is nearly upon us. Before long, Christmas parties will be planned, presents will be purchased and social calendars will be full. Unfortunately, we tend to move less and eat more during this fun time of year. By following some simple tips, we can prevent unwanted extra calories, stop expanding waist lines, and feel better about ourselves. 1.

Start Researching and Planning Healthy Holiday Recipes Now. Find alternatives to high-calorie favorites such as apple pie and green bean casserole. Impress family and friends when you tell them how many calories you saved them.

2. Plan Activities That Do Not Focus on Eating Food. Try planning projects such as volunteering at a Food Bank, delivering food to those less fortunate, going on a family hike, creating holiday decorations or planning a family fun run/walk. You can be with your loved ones without eating extra calories. 3. Make a Plan for Dealing with Problem Situations. For example, how will you deal with a holiday pot luck? One idea is to bring a health holiday snack so you have something to munch on. Another idea is to only fill half your plate when faced with a buffet. 4. Make Exercise Goals. When we move, we feel better about ourselves. When we feel better about ourselves, we are more likely to make better food choices.

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Write goals that are measurable. For example, “I will exercise for 30 minutes, five times this week.” 5. Keep Exercise at the Top of Your “To-Do” List. Our calendars feel full this time of year and it is easy to not make exercise a priority. Write “exercise” on your to-do list. 6. Record Your Meals. This allows you to see how much you have eaten and help teach you better portion sizes. Most of us underestimate how much we actually eat, especially when dining out. Try using My Fitness Pal, or another tracking system that allows you to add recipes, enter favorite foods and track your daily in take and activity. 7. Don’t Skip Meals. Skipping meals usually contributes to more overeating at the next meal. When faced with a big evening holiday party, eat a very sensible lunch. You will be able to make smarter choices with your brain instead of with your stomach. 8. Use the Buddy System. Find a friend or family member with similar goals. Exercising with another person is often more enjoyable. Encourage one another to meet your goals. 9. Be Creative with Exercise. Play a game of tag in the snow. Go on a leaf-collecting hike with your kids. Shovel the neighbor’s driveway. Go sledding with your family. All of these activities get you moving. 10. Don’t Give Up. If you eat more than you should or miss a workout, start again the next day.

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4

Live Nativity Celebrates the

Reason for the Season

The Living Nativity is put on by farm manager Richard Eversull, and about 90 volunteers who dramatize the scene, tend to animals and fires, serve hot chocolate, provide hay rides and sing carols. The event is made complete with sheep, donkeys and a friendly camel named Moses, who looks on as visitors stroll through the historic barn and pause to contemplate their beliefs. Outside the barn, visitors can enjoy hay rides, the sounds of carolers and the warmth of a fire and hot chocolate. The event is open to the public Friday, Saturday and Monday, December 12, 13 and 15 from 5 to 9 p.m. Admission is one can of food to be donated to local families through the Cache Food Pantry or $2 a person ($10 a family), however Eversull states that those who cannot afford to pay should, “Come anyway! All are welcome.”

Photo courtesy of Lora Tolman

Emily Buckley, editor-in-chief

For the fourth year, the Old Morgan Barn in Nibley will transform into the humblest of scenes for three evenings in December as volunteer actors depict the birth of Jesus Christ as told in the King James Version of the Bible.

A Christmas Carol:

The Morgan Farm is located at 800 West 2800 South in Nibley.

A Holiday Ghost Story The story that follow’s Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey with the three ghostly spirits that visit him on Christmas Eve, instills a powerful message about redemption and the spirit of the holiday season. The not-for-profit Four Seasons Theatre Company was started by local brothers Kody, Jonathan and Danny Rash who work together to bring high quality productions to the north end of Cache Valley. Their shows are performed in the Sky View High School Auditorium.

Photo courtesy of Four Season Theatre Company

Emily Buckley, editor-in-chief

It has become a seasonal favorite in Cache Valley, and Four Seasons Theatre Company invites you to make A Christmas Carol, based on the Charles Dickens classic tale with music by Disney composer Alan Menken, a holiday tradition for your family.

A Christmas Carol includes a cast of about 40 adults and 40 children. The set, includes two permanent features (the Cratchit house and the home of Scrooge’s nephew Fred) and features quick transitions, including Scrooge’s mansion flying on and off the stage. A Christmas Carol will be performed at Sky View Auditorium on December 4-6, 8 and 11-13, at 7:30 p.m. with a 1:30 matinee on December 6. Tickets are $10 online at www.fourseasonstheatre.org or $12 at the door.

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Light Your Home for Christmas

Mark Anderson, owner, Anderson Seed and Garden

With the holiday season just around the corner, I can think of very few things that give as much satisfaction and joy, and simultaneously cause as much frustration as holiday lighting. Popular movies and television shows have documented the sheer pain and suffering inflicted by miniature Christmas lights, but we all laugh at the exploits of the pathetic hero because we have found ourselves in the exact same place at some time. Despite the difficulty and anguish that they instill in all of us, there is nothing like a welldone light display to warm our hearts and bring a twinkle to the eye of even the most self-proclaimed Scrooge. Beautiful lights can take your breath away. While it is wonderful to have someone else come and do the work for us, not everyone has the funds to make it happen; there is also great satisfaction

in creating something yourself. To help alleviate all the troubles that hanging lights can cause, follow these few suggestions: First, repair and test each strand of lights before you put them on a tree or hang them from the house. Burtout bulbs don’t magically repair themselves from one year to the next, and they are the source of most problems with miniature lighting. At the end of each season, I replace every burnt- out bulb on each strand that I can find (especially the ones on my tree), then I do it again at the beginning of the next season, just to make sure. Next, not all lights are created equal. Some sets are better quality

than others, and can handle more sets plugged into each other end-to-end. The light bulbs last longer and burn brighter on better quality sets as well. Only plug 50 light sets into 50 light sets; 100’s into 100’s. Also, don’t plug in more than three sets together end to end, otherwise it will shorten the life of your lights dramatically. Most importantly, remember to take the lights down with the same amount of care that you put them up. We are always careful not to break or damage the lights during installation, but when it comes time to take them down, we just yank them off the trees and the house, and then expect them to work just fine the next season. Taking care of the lights in the off season (proper care during removal, replacing burnt-out bulbs and storing them in a protective container) will pay major dividends the next season. All of us do this job once a year, and it’s easy to forget the ins and outs of miniature lights from one season to the next, but we expect ourselves to know it all and produce a professional result every time. A little patience, proper care and lowering our expectations will make for a much more enjoyable holiday lighting experience this season.

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4

Jenny Mathews, contributing writer

Cache Valley Family

Holiday Traditions

An anthology of popular Christmas carols would suggest that among other activities during the holidays, we roast chestnuts, ride horse-drawn sleighs, kiss underneath mistletoe, eat fig-pudding and fruit cake while walking in a winter wonderland. This, most wonderful time of the year, is a season of traditions, and Cache Valley families have no shortage of them. While some Holiday traditions, like stockings and Christmas trees, are common, each family draws from their own experiences to generate their unique and cherished traditions. As I reached out to gather a sampling from families in the valley, each story was wrapped in a familiar nostalgia. As they shared their stories with me, I felt as if they were letting me briefly peak inside their secret shiny silver box of priceless treasures. Family traditions become sacred and continue because of the people whose lives they bless and the joy and love shared among families during the holidays.

Cut ting the Christmas Tree: Eric and Isabel Jones Family, Nibley In 1946, my husband’s great-grandfather, Evan Parley Jones, put a ‘down payment’ on a mountain ranch in Idaho near Bear Lake. He did this by putting in the plumbing for the former owner’s home, and then paid off the rest of the money bit by bit. Every December, the family would drive there together to cut Christmas trees to bring back and sell to the locals. We try and keep the tradition alive with our young family. Grandpa Rodney Jones is in his 80’s, but still drives us up to the ranch every year. “When we go to get the tree, we make a day of it. We meet in Garden City in the morning for hot cocoa, then drive north to the ranch. Hunting for the perfect tree is so much fun. Once we get them home and decorated, the trees usually look a bit like scraggly Charlie Brown trees, but that makes us love them even more. They’re part of our family history and part of how we celebrate the past, the future and the special time of year.

Christmas Eve Pancake Dinner: Barry and Rhonda Park Family, Logan “The tradition started with my grandparents, Clarence and Evelyn Powell. They owned a plumbing and heating business and there was always a last-minute call on Christmas Eve for a furnace or water heater that went out. My grandma hated having the guys out so late that night so she decided to have pancakes and sausage waiting for them at the office so their wives didn’t have to hold dinner off. After a few years, they decided to close the office early and invite everyone to a pancakes and sausage Christmas Eve dinner. “Decades later this tradition continues with members of my family and my sister’s family in Michigan. I remember watching my grandpa put brown sugar and fresh cream on his pancakes and knowing how much he enjoyed it. This tradition keeps the memory of my grandparents alive.”

Advent Calendar: Travis and Shanda Baldwin family, Paradise “My favorite Christmas tradition is our family advent calendar. I loved having an advent calendar when I was a little girl. We always picked out our own chocolate advent calendar from the grocery store. Each morning I would quickly open the little numbered door for my yummy treat. I wanted to make sure I kept the tradition of an advent calendar for my own family, but with a little twist! Eight years ago I bought a cheap felt pocket advent calendar and each December I fill the pocket for each day with a little piece of paper describing the activity for that day. Some activities are elaborate and some are simple (carefully coordinated with our family calendar so I don’t overwhelm myself on busy days!). “My kids LOVE our advent calendar and get excited as they take turns reaching into the little pockets.”

The Family History Tree: Layne and Julie Finlinson Family, Smithfield “In 1996, the year our first child was born, I decided to make a special ornament for his first Christmas. I chose a wooden gingerbread man and recorded the details of his birth on it. We liked the idea of a ‘crafty’ tree and having enjoyed making the first ornament, continued making wooden ornaments that represented special events from each year that followed. Layne had experience with woodworking and began cutting our own patterns. It has become a great way to summarize our children’s history. Now that the kids are older they decide what their ornament should be and help design it. We write a little on the back of each ornament to describe that child’s design. “The tradition has made decorating the tree each year fun. We separate the ornaments out for each child and they place ‘their’ ornaments on the tree, recalling stories as we decorate.”

Breakfast with Santa: Tom and Traci Jensen Family, Lewiston “I was born six months after our family had their first breakfast with Santa. My grandfather worked near the ZCMI Center in Salt Lake City, and saw an advertisement for breakfast with Santa in the Tiffin Room, a restaurant on the 5th floor. They bought tickets for the family that year and we went again every year throughout my childhood. “I remember we would eat breakfast, listen to a lady named Jingle play the piano and then Santa would come. He sang and danced, then came around to visit every table. We were each given a stocking-shaped paper to make our wish lists on, and then we’d follow him down to the department store to sit on his knee. “In 1998, we decided to have breakfast with Santa at my grandma’s house instead, and the next year, ZCMI closed its doors forever. The tradition of Breakfast with Santa lives on in our family. Each year, on the Friday before Christmas, we have a big sleepover at my parent’s house. Saturday morning we make a special breakfast while the children wait with their noses pressed against the window watching for Santa. After breakfast, Santa arrives. He sings and dances and gives everyone a small gift before he leaves. We look forward to this all year long.”

Birthday Party for Jesus: Matt and Erica Smith family, North Logan “As long as I can remember, my family has celebrated Christmas evening with a birthday party. Mom would bake a cake and my two sisters and I would decorate it with a mini nativity. After dinner, we would gather around the table and sing : ‘If the whole world knew your birthday, If it was marked in green and red, If they counted down the days to it then not a word was said, How sad they’d feel if they forgot your very special day, And even though they knew it, no one took the time to say Happy Birthday’ “Then we’d break into the traditional Happy Birthday song to baby Jesus. As children, we absolutely got it. The cake and the song reminded us that Christmas wasn’t about presents under trees or Santa in a sleigh, it was to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.”

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4

Family Firsts:

The Tradition That Never Was dolls; they were everywhere. There was even an Elf on the Shelf cartoon featured on network television. One evening at our home, with all the kids gathered, I unveiled our elf. Before I could say “Ho, Ho, Ho,” our four-year-old was cowering behind his brother in tears. He believed there was something creepy lurking behind the little elf’s smile. What followed were days of sleepless nights and promises that our nameless elf (yep, didn’t even name him with all the wailing) was really nice and that he had left our house for good. So, no go for the elf, but it got me thinking about holiday traditions. One family’s favorite tradition may not be another family’s, and that’s ok. When starting traditions it occurred to me that there are some things to consider. Such as what is the purpose of the tradition, what values will it teach and what stage is the family in? If the tradition doesn’t produce the desired results, don’t feel guilty or be afraid to scratch it, at least for a time.

The photo above represents another family tradition, photos in front of the tree, that didn’t go quite as planned. Still, this has become one of the Bone family’s favorite Christmas photos yet. Tara Bone, contributing writer

Every year families begin and continue successful holiday traditions, as has our family, but let’s be realistic. Some traditions meant to spread joy and cheer never make it out of the box. This was our case last Christmas when one hoped-for tradition became a nightmare — literally. You saw them, the little green-and-red Elf on the Shelf

Let’s be stingy with our time because we’re busy, especially around the holidays. Don’t feel pressure to do every tradition that comes along. Start traditions that create lasting memories, but keep it tailored to your unique family. At the end of the holiday season, what do you want your family to remember? As for our family, again this year, that means no elf time and more family time. About Family Firsts: There are lots of firsts in life. First step, first day of school, first job and the first family flop. There are success stories that are parent-of-the-year material, but there are also epic fails. Don’t we wish someone would tell us what pitfalls to avoid? So here it is, the tales of one family’s adventures.

Logan Peak Dental Offers Free Care Day Last holiday season Dr. Dave Gordon, DDS, owner of Logan Peak Dental Care, opened his doors on Christmas Eve for a free dental care day. The office was open from 7 a.m. to Noon and he and his staff served 21 patients. Dr. Gordon will repeat the Free Care Day this year, on Tuesday, December 23. Logan Peak Dental, located at 981 S. Main Street in Logan, will be open from 7 a.m. to Noon. No appointments are taken, and patients are seen on a first-come, first-serve basis. Free care will be available for cleanings, extractions and fillings. When it comes to recognizing his success in the Cache Valley, Dr. Gordon is quick to say how appreciative he is of the tremendous kindness the community has shown to him and his practice. “This is the least we can do,” he said. “It is our small way of giving back this holiday season.”

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Give Your Children

The Gift of Reading

Marshal Garrett, superintendent Logan City School District

This Holiday Season

As the Holiday season is upon us, much time is spent shopping, cooking, spending time with family, putting up decorations and going to special events. Time seems to go by way too fast and we end up feeling more frustrated than festive. Many families have great traditions around the holidays, events that bring back great memories or make new ones. A great tradition to either continue or to perhaps to start, is spending time as a family reading books about all of the holidays that are celebrated this time of year: Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza and New Years. What a great opportunity to be with your family members for a block of time where you can lose yourself in the writings and pictures that authors and artists have shared. If you not sure if you have any books or you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t remember titles of books that you may have read in your youth, here are some web sites with books and reading activities for all ages. While this list is not exhaustive, it provides some ideas of books you can share as a family. www.justreadfamilies.org/holidays/reading.asp www.justreadfamilies.org/holidays/tips.asp www.goodreads.com/list/show/455.Best_Christmas_Holiday_Books www.parenting.com/gallery/best-christmas-books-kids www.goodreads.com/list/tag/christmas www.goodreads.com/list/tag/hanukkah www.goodreads.com/list/tag/kwanza

The tradition of reading with your family is something that can be extended beyond the holiday season. Great memories can be made by spending time with your family reading. If you only have 10 minutes a day, take that time and read together. Your children will benefit greatly from the words they hear and read as well as the time they spend with you.

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4

Curt Jenkins, curriculum director Tim Smith , assessment director Robyn Hedgecock, assessment coordinator Cache County School District

In 2010, the State of Utah adopted a new set of education standards. These standards raised the bar for what students are expected to know and be able to do at the end of each grade level in the core subject areas. Last year, new tests (called SAGE) were administered to students to determine how well they were perform-

ing against the new standards. Scores were released in October 2014, and the Cache County School District (CCSD) performed very well. CCSD averages were substantially higher than state averages at every grade level. Some subject areas were over 20 percentage points above state averages. CCSD elementary schools performed well above the state average in all subject areas. Of 16 CCSD elementary schools, out of approximately 600 elementary schools statewide, 10 schools are in the Top 25 for Mathematics, five are for Science and four are for Language Arts. Park Elementary, located in Richmond, is in the Top 25 in all three academic areas. CCSD middle/intermediate schools also performed well above state averages. Of the six CCSD middle/ intermediate schools, four are in the Top 25 in Mathematics, three for Science and two for Language Arts. The South Cache 8/9 Center ranked first in the State in Mathematics. CCSD high schools also did well. Mountain Crest is ranked in the Top 25 for Language Arts, Mathematics and Science. Sky View is ranked in the Top 25 for Mathematics and Science. Cache Alternative High will be measured on a different scale. The Top 25 lists were compiled by the Deseret News. These lists can be found at www.deseretnews.com/ article/865614027/most-utah-students-arent-proficient-in-key-subjects-new-assessment-shows.html The results of these assessments are optimistic for Cache County Schools, and a tribute to the parents, students, teachers, administrators and support staff. At the same time the results also demonstrate opportunity for growth as a district as we focus on helping prepare our students to be college- and career-ready. For more SAGE test results, please visit https://datagateway.schools.utah.gov/SAGE

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4

health reform: WHERE THE ONLY

CONSTANT IS

Ben Morrill, vice president, individual health Alivint Financial and Insurance

Open Enrollment is just around the corner and the Affordable Care Act, otherwise known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Obamacare,â&#x20AC;? has transformed the face of health insurance as we know it. President Obama ran on a platform of change, and, after the full implementation of health reform in January of this year, there has been plenty of it. Insurance carriers have not only overhauled their plan benefits, but their networks as well. This means that everyone who has an individual or family health insurance policy should consult their insurance professional regarding their coverage. Some of the changes that have come about include coverage for preventive care. This allows you to get check ups and cancer screenings 100-percent covered. Preventive cancer screenings include mammograms, pap tests, colorectal exams and PSA tests. Although it is difficult to be enthusiastic about having any of these tests done, you can rest assured your insurance will pay for them without any cost to you. Do not fret; well-child visits and immunizations also fall

Change

under the preventative care umbrella as do mental health services. Maternity is on the list as well. This is having a significant impact on Utahns who have been, for years, used to little or no maternity-related benefits. Now you can expect to find maternity built into your normal health plan without separate deductibles or rider. As found listed on Healthcare.gov. Every health plan is now required to cover the following: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Outpatient care (care received without being admitted to a hospital) Trips to the emergency room Inpatient hospital care Care before and after a baby is born Mental health and substance use disorder services (including behavioral health treatment, counseling and psychotherapy. Prescription drugs Services and devices to recover or care for injuries, disabilities and chronic conditions (including physical and occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, psychiatric rehabilitation and more) Lab tests

9. Preventive services including counseling, screenings and vaccines 10. Pediatric services (including dental care and vision care for children)

Provider Networks have also changed greatly, but for the worse. Networks are shrinking as insurance carriers are trying desperately to find a way to cut costs in an effort to save their customers money. Make sure to look up every doctor and facility you intend to visit to be certain they are in your insurance providerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s network. If you travel outside the state of Utah on a regular basis let your agent know. Many plans that used to have network doctors and hospitals in other states now only have emergent care, which ends as soon as you leave the emergency room. The cost of the new plans is undoubtedly what people are paying most attention to. With pre-existing conditions out and federally mandated benefits in, health premiums are on the rise. There is a new Tax Credit available, however, to subsidize the price increase. If you do not have access to employersponsored health coverage, you may be eligible for the new Tax Credit based on your income and household size. Be sure to discuss this with your health insurance advisor. Do not forget that Open Enrollment has even changed from last year. This year, it starts November 15 and continues until February 15. If you would like coverage to begin January 1, 2015, you must enroll by December 15, 2014.

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A Stress-Free Guide to Holiday Entertaining

Margaret Gittins Bread and Butter Events

If throwing a dinner party feels hopelessly complicated and stressful, we’ve got some news for you: It’s not. Hosting at home can be simple and fuss-free, especially if you start the planning well in advance and don’t sweat the small stuff. Even if you’re not Martha Stewart, here are some tips to make your next dinner party fun for all (including the host!).

help of others in your household, kids included. And, don’t be afraid to hire help if you can’t get it all done alone. Don’t be fooled by the perfect you see on Pinterest or in magazines; even Martha has help with her parties.

Have a Menu Decide early what you will serve at your party so you’ll have time to gather all the necessary ingredients and supplies. Make things easy on yourself and stick with tried-and-true Have Fun Remember the reason for your Christmas parties, New recipes that you know will turn out fabulously. Chances are, Year’s bash and all the shindigs in between: They are meant your guests will be expecting you to serve your signature to spend time with family, friends and those you love. Don’t dishes. Avoid food that involves to-order cooking, constant lose sight of that in the chaos of planning a get-together. stirring, flipping or checking. Simple is sometimes best. Throughout the planning, keep the focus on your guests, making sure they have fun and that you have fun, too. Have a Plan This is not the time to fly by the seat of your pants. Spend Nothing else really matters. some time making a list of all you need to get done before your party. Then, create a time line based on that list. When Communicate With Your Guests Let your guests know well in advance all the pertinent par- making the time line, it helps to work backward. If your party details. This includes the time, place and menu. Be sure ty starts at 6 p.m., and your main dish takes three hours to to include maps and directions. If your party is a potluck, cook, you need to have it in the oven by 3 p.m. Be sure to ensure guests know what you want them to bring. Give build in break time for yourself so you’re not completely others jobs to do. Upon receiving an invitation, people will frazzled and exhausted when guests arrive. Cooking for a often ask, “How can I help?” Instead of saying you have it large group takes longer than a meal for two, plus there are all taken care of, take your guests up on their kindness and probably more courses and add-ons to juggle. Give yourask them to help wherever you need it. Be sure to enlist the self an extra hour or two in the kitchen just in case.

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4 Start With a Clean Slate Certainly, you should make sure your house is clean for your party, but you also want a clean slate in the kitchen: clear countertops, an empty dishwasher, a clean sink and a clean refrigerator. This will make your last-minute party prep go smoothly. It might seem like a pain in the moment, but it’s usually a good idea to wash pots and pans as you finish using them. That way, you won’t have a scary pile of dirty dishes at the end of the night. Set Up Ahead of Time Don’t wait until the last minute to put out your centerpieces, candlesticks, decorations and serving pieces. Set them out ahead of time. I like to use sticky notes to label my serving dishes so anyone who is helping me in the kitchen knows where food should go when it comes out of the oven. I also like to set up a drink station ahead of time, outside the kitchen and out of the main prep thoroughfare. This helps avoid kitchen congregations. You can also put out tablecloths and silverware two nights before. It’s an easy thing to check off your list and feels satisfying. Designate a place. Decide ahead of time where you’ll put guests’ coats and purses, plus any hostess gifts and food offerings they bring. The party attitude starts with you. Stay relaxed and cheerful, even if the cake caves and the roasted veggies

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burn. Greet your guests at the door comfortably, in slippers or barefoot, it sets a fun, chill vibe right away. Have Extras Make sure every bathroom in the house is stocked with toilet paper, soap and other necessities. Have extra paper towels and dish towels in the kitchen. Put extra hangers in the coat closet. Check Your Inventory Ahead of Time Make sure you have all the serving necessities (serving dishes, wineglasses, extra plates, dessert forks, etc.) the weekend before the party so you’re not rushing around the day of trying to buy, borrow or steal them. Lay everything out the morning of your party to make sure it’s all present and accounted for (and clean). Do the same with your recipe ingredients a day or two before the party. Try to get as much prep work done ahead of time as possible. Look for recipes that include instructions on how to plan ahead and mention what can be prepared (up to a day or two) early. Plan Menu Items Strategically Prepping for a dinner party isn’t quite the same as tossing together some pasta and veggies on any given weeknight. Avoid a table laden with dishes that require last-minute prep, exotic ingredients (that necessitate multiple grocery store runs), recipes with long prep times or items that need lots of time in the oven or fridge. It’s ok to have one crazy centerpiece dish, but don’t drive yourself crazy. Cut yourself Some Slack Don’t sweat taking easy shortcuts like buying appetizers from the supermarket (cheese and crackers, for example), and heading to the local bakery for bread and sweet treats. Buy Extra Ice Stock up on bags of frozen cubes before the big event. It’s never a bad idea to be prepared. Choose Some Sweet Tunes Make a playlist or choose a station to set the mood. Classic crooners like Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald and the Rolling Stones never fail. Don’t Forget About Dessert Unfortunately, the last (and arguably most important) course often doesn’t get enough respect. Serve up the finishing touch that everyone will remember the entire evening by.

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Understanding the Basics of Colds My Child is Sick All the Time. Is Something Wrong? Kids, especially those under age 2, get viral infections often. Six to 10 viral upper respiratory infections per year is normal. If they attend day care it may be double that and they may seem to be sick all winter.

Barrett Labrum, DO, pediatrician Primary Care Pediatrics

As the cold weather comes to Cache

When Should I Bring My Child to the Doctor? If your child has respiratory problems and is not breathing well, they need to be seen by a doctor. If a fever lasts more than three or four days they should be seen. If symptoms last more than 10 days without improvement or are getting worse, they should be seen. Colds can sometimes lead to secondary bacterial infections such as sinus infection or ear infection. These often occur after a child has had sympfections do not respond to antibiotic toms for longer than week. therapy and prescribing antibiotics for colds can lead to resistant organisms When Can My Child Go Back to causing antibiotics to lose effective- School? ness over time. Studies have shown Your child can go back to school or that symptoms can be improved using day care when his/her fever is gone a cold-mist humidifier, saline washes and they can participate easily in noror saline drops with suction for kids mal activities. who canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t blow their nose. Some studies have shown effectiveness of honey Following these ideas, especially washfor children over age 1. You can treat ing hands, will help with prevention and fever with acetaminophen or ibupro- treatment of colds. More information fen. Cough medicines are not recom- can be found on the AAP parent web site mended for children under age 2, and www.healthychildren.org. studies show no effectiveness with possible side effects for children under age 6.

Valley, people move indoors and enjoy friendly confines and close contact. Children return to school and germs begin to spread. Viral infections begin spreading and dominate the health scene in our families. Rhinovirus (common cold), influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and parainfluenza (croup) are just a few of the viral illnesses that we face during the winter. Often times, treatment for these illnesses are limited and waiting for it to get better is often the best medicine. Here are a few ideas for prevention How to Prevent Colds? and treatment of colds. Respiratory viruses are spread through secretions What are the Symptoms of Colds? Symptoms often start with a sore on the hands and in the air. throat and clear runny nose. There Hand washing is extrememay be a fever of 101-102 for a few ly important and can be days. Those with colds, often develop very effective. Encourage a cough that is worse at night over a your children to cough few days and the nose has yellow and and sneeze into their thicker discharge. The cold will begin sleeve. Use tissues for nasal secretions. Avoid sharto improve in 5-7 days. ing pacifiers, cups, utensils or other objects that they Is There a Treatment for Colds? Treatment is often supportive. Viral in- put in their mouth.

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The Trendy mom:

Dressing for Family Photos

about pictures is that you want your family to blend well, but you don’t need to be too “matchy.” Here are four different methods you can use to tackle the task of outfitting your family for photos: Photo courtesy of Molly Landon

Having a good family picture is priceless, but prepping for family pictures can be quite the project. Who will take the pictures? Where will you take them? What should you wear? After that you will still be left hoping your family will cooperate long enough to get at least one good picture. While I can’t solve all your picture taking woes, I will offer to some advice on what to wear. Start thinking about your pictures a few weeks in advance. See what color schemes catch your eye; I suggest combining three or four. The fun thing

1. 2. 3.

Find something you like and match the rest of your family around you. Your kids look good in everything, your husband probably will end up wearing a button-up, and, lets face it probably doesn’t really care, so you have free reign — use it! If you see an item you love for anyone in your family, plan around that. For example, this year I found a dress for my daughter that was darling and I knew she would love. I started with it and planned the rest of our colors to complement it. Look online in the “new arrivals” section at your favorite stores; they often coordinate the color schemes for all ages (even adults) on new lines. This can make things simpler for you because you can get

everything you need in one place instead of looking at several stores. New isn’t always better. Don’t feel like you have to buy all new clothes for your pictures. Look through your closets. Odds are you already have some great things you can put together. This is a good option because then you already know how things fit and look beforehand.

You want each person in your family to be wearing something that makes them feel comfortable and fits their personality because, at the end of the day, it not about what you wore, its about getting a picture that captures how your family is right now: A picture that will remind you of your three-year-old’s silly-smile phase, the phase where your daughter would only wear pink or that your busy twoyear-old wouldn’t look at the camera for any amount of bribery. Pictures are links to our memories, and that is what makes them priceless.

XOXO

Breanne

Breanne Miller lives in Cache Valley, is the mother of three and owns online fashion boutique Collectively Yours.

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4

Joy ofwithService your

Sharing the

Lauren Wallentine, development associate Child and Family Support Center

Children

Let your children get involved in planning service projects. Let your child pick an ornament off a giving tree for a child who is their same age. Let them plan a project that reflects their interests. For younger children who may not understand what service means, teach them that they are helping others. Kids feel valued when they are given responsibility. After an act of service talk to your children about it. How did doing service make them feel? How do they think the person who they served feels? Help them to see how they made a difference. If they can feel the importance of why they are serving they will feel joy. Your family will be strengthened as you serve together. Your children will learn to love and respect others. Make service a part of your holidays and feel the difference it can make â&#x20AC;&#x201D; youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll want to keep serving all year round. For opportunities to serve at the Child and Family Support Center contact Leigh at 435.752.8880.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the season of giving, but how do you share the joy of serving with your children when all they seem to care about is presents? If we can teach our children to serve while they are young they will be more likely to serve when they get older. It starts by setting the example. By serving your spouse and being positive and enthusiastic about service opportunities, your children will learn from you. Teach your children that there are small acts of service they can do in the home. Teach them that by helping other family members they are showing their love. Help them to know they can serve through something as small as a hug. Let them wash the dishes after a party or help put up decorations.

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4

Winter Driving, Safety and Preparedness 101 Christie Stock, president, Discount Tire

Old Man Winter is arriving, and with him he brings snow, sleet, freezing temperatures, ice and winds. With all these coming our way it’s time to buckle down and prepare for the hazards winter can and will bring. It’s important to adapt accordingly for your own safety and for the safety of others around you. It’s also helpful to practice winter driving techniques in a snowy, open parking lot so you are familiar with how your car handles.

Winter Driving:

Personal Preparedness Kit:

The best advice one can give in regards to driving in bad weather is not to drive at all if and when it can be avoided. If you must venture out however don’t leave until the snow plows and or sanding trucks have had a chance to do their work. Here are some key tips for when you get on the road:

Thinking ahead and being equipped for any emergency that may arise is one of the best lines of defense one has when it comes to traveling during the winter. It doesn’t matter if you are driving across the country or to the corner store, always being prepared for what could happen brings valued peace of mind. The following items should be in your vehicle at all times:

• • • • • • • • • •

Allow yourself plenty of extra time to reach your destination. Always drive with two hands on the wheel. Keep distractions away and focus on the road. Before turning, slow down while traveling in straight line. While turning, maintain a slow and regular speed. If you accelerate suddenly your tires could lose traction. Also while turning, don’t make any sudden steering wheel movements. Only brake in a straight line before the turn and do so gradually. Do not brake during the turn. Increase your following distance from other cars significantly. If your wheels lock and slide, release the brake pedal to recover traction, then slowly brake again. Try to avoid changing lanes in slush. If using chains, check for proper clearance between the tire and the vehicle, as well as for clearance between dual tires.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

A shovel for snow removal Jumper cables Emergency flares A properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench and car jack A bag of salt, cat litter or a small piece of carpet for added traction when stuck A first-aid kit A basic tool kit A working flashlight with extra batteries Blankets, warm clothing and gloves An ice scraper with snow brush Wooden matches in a water-proof container Extra windshield washer fluid Reflective triangles and a bright-colored cloth Non-perishable, high-energy foods such as unsalted nuts, hard candy and dried fruits A compass Water in a plastic container that won’t break if it freezes Two 2x4 wood planks for jack support

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | H o l i d a y 2 0 1 4

Stranded Do’s and Don’t’s:

Winterizing Your Vehicle:

In the event that you happen to become stranded, there are some vital things to remember in order to experience the best possible outcome. The following tips are designed to help get you through this trying and scary experience:

Just as it’s important to prepare yourself for winter you must also prepare your car. Driving in the winter means changes in the way you drive. Snow sleet and ice can lead to slower traffic, hazardous road conditions and unforeseen dangers. You can avoid many dangerous winter travel problems by planning ahead. Have your vehicle maintenance service done as often as the manufacturer recommends. In addition to that, every fall complete the following checklist items to get your vehicle set for the winter season ahead:

• • • • • • • • •

Try to stay calm. Don’t tire yourself out. Shoveling in the intense cold can be deadly. Do not leave your vehicle unless you know exactly where you are, how far it is to possible help and are certain you will improve your situation. To attract attention, light two flares and place one a safe distance from each end of your vehicle. Hang a brightly colored cloth from your antenna. If you are sure the vehicles exhaust pipe is not blocked, run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes every hour or so, depending on the amount of gas in the tank. Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by using woolen items and blankets to keep warm. Keep at least one window open slightly as heavy snow and ice can seal the vehicle shut. Eat hard candy to keep your mouth moist.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Keep gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines Check antifreeze levels Check windshield wiper fluid and be sure it’s a stronger cleaner/de-icer fluid solution Check power steering fluid Check heater and windshield defroster Check brakes and brake fluid Check ignition system Check emergency flashers and lights Check exhaust Check tire pressure and wear Check fuel Check oil Check battery Check radiator

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