West Virginia Family Magazine November/December 2014

WEST VIRGINIA

FAMILY

MAGAZINE Volume 8/Issue 1 Nov/Dec 2013

2013

Annual Gift Guide

& Family-friendly Holiday Events Ch

Shows t h g i L s r istma

tunit r o p p O r e e Volunt

ies

And MORE...

NOW IN OUR 8th YEAR!!

FREE

Happy Holidays

The Physicians of St. Joseph’s Cardiology

Yaser Kalash, MD Jamie Cox, PA-C 304-460-7979

General Surgery

Susan Long, MD Sean Barnett, PA-C Salvatore LaNasa, MD Kaitlyn Schalker, PA-C 304-473-2303

Gynecology & Obstetrics Ilan D. Bornstein, MD J. Michael Rollins, MD 304-473-2300 Kimberly Farry, MD Priya Sundaram, MD Keely Burnside, PA-C Cindy Bailey, CNM Sue Owen, CNM Kathryn Robinson, CNM 304-472-7473

Internal Medicine Bartley Brown, DO 304-473-2199

Buckhannon, WV

Urology

Douglas McKinney, MD 304-460-7901

Orthopedics

James J. Kim, MD 304-473-6810

Family Practice Sara Chua, DO 304-473-2305

Stephanie Frame, DO 304-460-7933 Elaine Kirchdoerfer, MD 304-460-7905 Michael Kirk, MD 304-460-7960 Clyde Mitchell, MD 304-472-7782 Gerard O’Loughlin, DO Amanda Snyder, PA-C 304-473-2202

Hospitalists

H. George Hebard, MD John O. Mills, DO Amy Pearson, MD Dan Stalnaker, PA-C

www.stj.net www.stj.net

www.purplecrying.info/

WEST VIRGINIA

FAMILY

M A G A Z I N E

Coming Jan/Feb 2014

We believe in Family First! Our 4th Annual Family Health issue includes a Health & Services Directory of doctors, dentists, hospitals, family services, and more.

PLUS our First Annual BABY GUIDE - with OB/GYN and Pediatric listings, articles, tips, products, services, events, & more.

Free listing in the Family Health & Services Directory with any size ad!

Plus our entire issue is also available in two online versions - no additional cost to you.

(Directory listing includes the name of your business, address, phone number, and website.)

Be sure your business is in this issue!

We are WV's #1 family magazine! Call today! 304-472-4528 Email: info@wvfamilymagazine.com

November/December 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine ď Ź www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Family Health Issue w/ Baby Guide

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Contents

November/December 2013

FEATURES

6 8

10 12

16

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Publisher's Note For Busy Moms: Enjoying That njoying That First Sip of Coffee in the Morning he Morning Ten Tips for a Debt-free Holiday ebt-free Holiday The Unplugged Wonder of a Winter Road Trip: 8 Activities that Prove - Half the Fun is Getting There!

Volunteer Opportunities: Over- come These Obstacles &

Volunteer with Your Family Safe Teen Driving Series: The Road to Safer Teen Driving

GIFT GUIDE

13 14 15 15 20-21 21 21 22

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Gifts that Give Back Gift Ideas for Pets Awesome Stocking Stuffers Gift Ideas for the Teacher Editor's Gift Picks Gift Basket Ideas Gift Ideas for Teens 5 of the Most Popular Children's Toys for Christmas 2013 (& Hard- est to Find) The Gift of Class: Give the Gift of a Class

CONTESTS/GIVE-AWAYS

West Virginia Family Magazine ď Ź 1-304-472-4528

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6 11 14

19

2013 Cover Photo Contest Monster Jam Tickets Give-Away Pets Add Life Children's Poetry Contest Book Give-Away Winners

THINGS TO DO 15 17 19

Family-Fun events for the Holidays Family-friendly Calendar Christmas/Holiday Light Shows

ON THE COVER:

Cover Photo Contest Finalist

Cover Kid Nicholas, age 3

Oakland, MD

Photo by: Photography by Amanda

November/December 2013

WEST VIRGINIA

FAMILY

M A G A Z I N E www.WVFamilyOnline.com A Trusted Family Magazine Since 2006 Publisher/Editor Carla Cosner

Contributing Writers

Meagan Ruffing, Heidi Smith-Luedtke, Michele Ranard, M.Ed., Cindy Hudson, Kiki Bochi West Virginia Family is a FREE bi-monthly magazine serving families in West Virginia. Our print edition has a circulation of 15,000 copies with more than 375 highly visible distribution points in the North Central WV area, including schools, bookstores, libraries, doctor offices, malls, visitor centers, daycares, and more. The print edition has a 98% read rate, with over 30,000 readers.

WV Family is also available as two online versions available from anywhere in the state or outside of the state (or country). Online versions include: an interactive flip-page version and a pdf version for smart devices. WVFamilyOnline.com.

The views expressed by writers and advertisers, do not reflect the views of the publication or staff. Distribution of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of information, products, or services. West Virginia Family reserves the right to edit or reject any materials for any reason. Neither the advertisers nor the publisher will be responsible for misinformation, typographical errors, omissions, etc., herein contained. The articles in West Virginia Family are provided for informational purposes only. For further information, please seek the opinion of the professionals of your choice.

Please call or email for deadlines for Ads, Family Calendar, Resource listings, and/or to request a Media kit/Rate sheet for display ad rates. For Writer Guidelines please email for information.

WV Family Magazine P.O. Box 107 Buckhannon, WV 26201 PHONE: 304-472-4528 FAX: 304-472-4594 EDITOR: editor@WVFamilyMagazine.com SALES: info@WVFamilyMagazine.com CIRCULATION: carla@WVFamilyMagazine.com ONLINE: www.WVFamilyOnline.com

www.Facebook.com/WVFamilyMagazine Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission.

Names, addresses, phone numbers, emails or such that are submitted for contests are never shared with any third party.

Published by

Printed by:

(BookCastle Publishing, LLC)

Adult Education

Certified Nursing Assistant Computers/Word Processing Math Health Occupations Technical Special Classes for Adults Specialized Testing

Community Education Arts and Crafts Health and Fitness Special Interest Classes

Health Occupations Pre-requisite classes in Medical Terminology, Medical Math, and Health Care.

Provider CPR will be offered as evening classes.

Registration for Spring Classes begins at 1:00 January 6th, with classes starting the week of January 27th.

Registration times are Monday – Thursday 1:00 – 7:00 and Fridays

Surgical Technology / Materials Management November/December 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Health Occupations Applications are now being accepted for the school year 2014.

Classes begin in August.

Applications are available for pick up at MTEC Monday –Thursday 8:00-8:00 and Friday 8:00-2:00.

To download an application visit our website: www.mtecwv.edu.

Dental Assistant  Medical Office Management  Pre-LPN Nursing

Practical Nursing  Medical Office Management  Pre-LPN Nursing

Pharmacy Tech Preparation  Medical Assistant

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WV Family Magazine

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Deadline for Entries: March 31, 2014

Photo by C.Co sner

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Photo by C.C

Photo by WV Fam

ily Magazine

Cover Photo Contest Rules

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

Please read contest rules carefully.

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• We are seeking photos that are high resolution (300 dpi or higher) with crisp and clear images. Photos should have good lighting and great color. We accept jpg, tif, or pdf.

• Cover photos must be vertical, like a magazine cover (see samples above).

• Please do not crop the photos. We need plenty of room at the top and sides for editorial content - see cover shot in this ad. (Tip: when you think you have a perfect shot, take a giant step backwards.)

• Photographed children should be between the ages of 0-17 years old.

• Photographed children must be WV residents.

• Photos should be recent photos - taken within the past 12 months!

• Only natural photos will be accepted. No costumes or glamour shots. No photoshop touchups. No school photos.

• If your photo is chosen to be on a cover of WV Family Magazine you will be asked to sign a photo release form - allowing us to use your photo. If the photo was taken by a professional photographer, you must include a photo release form from the photographer at the time of submission. (This can be mailed, faxed, or scanned and emailed to us.)

• The legal guardian(s) of the child(ren) in the photo will be asked to sign a parent consent form if an entry is chosen.

• Family and sibling photos are welcome. Photos with a pet are welcome.

• Semi-Finalists will be featured in the May/Jun 2014 issue of West Virginia Fam ily Magazine. Winning photos will be featured on the cover of an upcoming issue of West Virginia Family Magazine.

• The composition and final cover design are at the discretion of the publisher of WV Family Magazine.

Submission Guidelines: Submit your entry by emailing your photo to Carla@WVFamilyMagazine.com (We will send you a confirmation email upon receipt.) Be sure to put “Cover Photo Contest” in the subject box.

Include as text in your email: Name of the child(ren), age, name of parent/ guardian, your name, your relationship to the child, your address, phone number, and email address. All entries must be received by March 31, 2014.

Names, addresses, phone numbers, emails, etc.... that are submitted for contests are never shared with any third party.

November/December 2013

From the publisher Welcome to our November/December Holiday issue! With this issue, we begin our 8th year of West Virginia Family Magazine. Thank you to all of the wonderful parents, caregivers, educators, and family-friendly businesses who help make it possible. West Virginia Family captured the heart of WV in 2006 as a free, high-quality, award-winning magazine especially for West Virginia families. Through the years we have provided articles, news, and tips on parenting, education, health & safety, recreation, and more. Our Guides & Directories have been a staple of our existence, including: the Summer Camps & Programs Directory (which comes out in our two Spring issues), our Ultimate Guide to Summer, the Back-toSchool Guide & Directory, our Holiday Gift Guide and Volunteer Guide (both in the Nov/Dec issue), and the Family Health Directory (Jan/Feb issue). New for 2014 is our Annual Baby Guide. This guide will be in our January/February issue with the Family Health Directory, with a focus on pregnancy, new moms, and baby. We will provide information, articles, tips, product reviews, and a listing of OB/GYN, Pediatricians, family services, and more.

In this issue you will find some great articles, tips, a family-friendly calendar full of holiday events, a listing of Christmas/Holiday light shows around the state, our Annual Gift Guide, and much more.

I would like to say "Thank you" to Cover Kids Tanner and Malia who assisted with the WV Family Magazine table at the Stockert Youth Center Children's Festival in Buckhannon (pictured below). Tanner was on the cover of our Spring 2013 issue and Malia was on the cover of our Fall 2013 issue. They greeted visitors and helped children with the craft activities.

Thank you for reading WV Family Magazine. Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year! Carla Cosner, Publisher

Allegheny Health Network

Allegheny Health Network

Whether your child’s burn is large or small, the road to recovery begins at the West Penn Burn Center.

American College of Surgeons, we rebuild lives and restore hope.

Children are not like adults, especially when it comes to burn injuries. Kids need special care so they can recover from the physical, burn developmental and emotional effects of and burns.

As the Our team of compassionate specialists includes child care specialists psychologists region’s onlydedicated hospital that is verified as a difference pediatric burn by the American Association/ to making a positive in the center lives of children.

We offer aBurn comprehensive treatment plan that includes a fulllives range of services designed to speed healing, American College of Surgeons, we rebuild and restorespecifically hope. reduce pain, minimize scarring and build confidence.

Our team of compassionate burn specialists includes child care specialists and psychologists sureayour child difference gets care from the lives very best.

For moreWe information about inpatient and dedicated toMake making positive in the of children. offer a comprehensive outpatient services at the West Penn Burn Center, visit www.westpennburncenter.com. treatment plan that includes a full range of services specifically designed to speed healing, In an emergency, call 9-1-1. reduce pain, minimize scarring and build confidence.

Make sure your child gets care from the very best. For more information about inpatient and outpatient services at the West Penn Burn Center, visit www.westpennburncenter.com.

In an emergency, call 9-1-1.

November/December 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Whether your child’s burn is large or small, the road Children are not like adults, especially when it comes to burn injuries. Kids need special care so they can recover from theat physical, developmental and emotional effects ofCenter. burns. As the to recovery begins the West Penn Burn region’s only hospital that is verified as a pediatric burn center by the American Burn Association/

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

The Spa @ The Waterfront

Share the gift of finding balance and joy in the holiday season!

Buy $100 Gift Certificate and receive $20 Gift Certificate for You!

For Busy Moms

Enjoying that First Sip of Coffee In the Morning

www.Waterfrontplacespa.com 304-906-4380 2 Waterfront Place Morgantown, WV 26501 *Validated parking available

By Meagan Ruffing

AMT’s Christmas Spectacular!

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

Join us for a holiday tradition that your family will enjoy for years to come. After all, it is

8

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

2013 Schedule

0 PM 29 & 30 at 7:3 • November at 2:00 PM 30 er mb ve • No 1 at 3:00 PM • December PM 4 – 7 at 7:30 • December 7 at 2:00 PM • December PM 8 at 3:00 • December 0 PM 11 – 14 at 7:3 • December 14 at 2:00 PM • December 15 at 3:00 PM • December 0 PM 18 – 21 at 7:3 • December at 2:00 PM 21 er mb ce • De 22 at 3:00 PM • December

November/December 2013

For more information call or go online 304.630.3040 • 800.943.3670 www.americanmountaintheater.com

The holidays are approaching and the lives of us moms are about to get even busier with all things winter-related. With the passing of cool, crisp mornings and nights, comes the anticipation of family get-togethers and tucked in children come evening time.

Why not start the beginning of your next chilly morning with a long sip of hot coffee to perk your senses? After all, coffee does have more than 1,000 antioxidants and is a proven stimulant to keep that body of yours in motion at least a few hours upon consumption. Read through this simple list of ideas for an easy and orderly start to your day – starting with that first sip of coffee in the morning.

C – Coffee. Get your coffee prepped the night before. Whether it’s your Keurig machine or an instant cup of Joe, laying out your favorite mug and spoon for when you awake can save even the most organized mama a few minutes each morning.

O – Open your eyes to what is going on around you. Do the kids need help getting their backpacks ready for school? Or does the dog need to be let outside before you leave for your child’s carpool? Pay attention to what is going on around you while sipping on your most delicious cup of coffee.

F – Forget about the worries from yesterday and the things you have to do tomorrow and just live in the moment for today.

Sitting down for a few minutes each morning to gather your thoughts and inhale the rich aroma of coffee beans can have a relaxing effect. Not only will it benefit you and your stress level but your kids will feel the difference in your mood when you are not so wound up.

F – Fill up. Be sure to include a healthy breakfast alongside your coffee. Some people like to have that first sip before anyone else gets up or before eating anything at all. Others like to dip their breakfast scones, muffins or donuts in their coffee

while they ‘wake up’ for the morning. Whatever your preferred method of eating breakfast is – make sure you have some. It does a body good.

E – Enjoy the taste. Coffee can be such a yummy, relaxing drink. Nothing says ‘Good Morning’ like the smell of coffee wafting through the house on a cool, crisp morning.

Enjoy every sip and linger in the taste of your favorite coffee flavor before your crazy, busy day begins.

E – Early risers. If you have early risers in the house…say, before 7am…let them be a part of your daily coffee ritual. Holding a yawning baby on your hip and smelling her sweet breath across your face while you press the ‘roast’ button, is cure for any type of early morning wake up call. If you have school-aged children, let them help out by getting your cream and sugar ready. Kids love to help their parents; especially when they see how pleasing it is to mom and dad. Take this simple opportunity to let them know that you appreciate them and talk about the day’s events to come.  Meagan Ruffing is a freelance parenting writer and mother to Dylan and Hannah. She looks forward to drinking her one cup of coffee each morning that she gets excited to go to bed at night.

WHEN YOU NEED A Pediatrician...

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

• Baby’s First Year • Toddlers to Teens • Sore throat & Ear infections • Allergies & Asthma • Diabetes • Behavioral difficulties • Development disorders AMANDA PENNINGTON, MD

11 North Locust Street • Buckhannon, WV 26201 • 304.472.1600 davishealthsystem.org November/December 2013

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

Family Matters

Ten Tips for a Debt-Free Holiday

By Heidi Smith Luedtke

D

espite your best intentions, you’re likely to overspend (again) this holiday season. You may be lured in by marketing tricks or get caught up in the spirit of generosity. Perhaps you feel trapped by your previous spending history or pressure to keep up with the kids’ expectations. You just want everyone to be happy.

Rationalizations aside, holiday indulgences aren’t worth risking your financial future. Although holiday spending takes place in a short period of time, paying off the resulting credit card balances can take all year long. With the debt-busting strategies below, you can psych yourself up financially. Remember: nothing you could buy feels as good as starting the New Year in the black. Here’s how to do it.

3000 Hampton Center, Suite B (304) 599-5000 www.dentist4kids.org

1. Examine your expectations. Holiday spending gets out of control when you give in to unrealistic social pressures or the kids’ expectations, says Katherine Liola, an Ameriprise financial advisor in Vienna, Va. The most meaningful gifts aren’t expensive.

2. Budget everything. Include decorations, cards and stamps, food for parties, holiday clothing, babysitting, teachers’ gifts and year-end tips for service people. Gifts are only one line-item.

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

Suffering from chronic or severe pain?

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We offer

DRY NEEDLING

therapy to ease your pain.

Used by professional athletes, this pain relieving technique is now available to everyone!

304-329-3908 November/December 2013

www.prestonmemorial.org

3. Spend time. Parents make costly decisions when they’re rushed, Liola says. Plan a family trip instead of buying gadgets. You’ll treasure shared memories long after today’s technology is obsolete.

4. Be card smart. Leave credit cards at home to avoid overspending. Studies show people spend about 15% more when they pay with credit cards, says consumer finance expert Kevin Gallegos of Freedom Debt Relief.

5. Cash out. Maximize savings by carrying large bills, not a pile of ones, fives, and tens Gallegos advises. You’ll be less likely to break a $50 bill to buy a latte or a silly stocking stuffer.

6. Go big. Buy one significant gift for each recipient, not several smaller ones. When you buy a $12 trinket for one child, you’ll feel pressured to buy the others trinkets, too, says financial coach Kelley Long, CPA. Soon, you spent $40 on “nothing.”

7. Trade up. Purchasing decisions are trade-offs: money spent on ornaments isn’t going to your retirement account or kids’ college funds, Liola says. Focus on long-term wealth and well-being, not short-term satisfaction.

8. Keep track. Overspending doesn’t happen by accident, says Liola, but people often don’t realize how much they’re spending. Writing down each expenditure will make you think twice before buying.

9. Just do it. Work late so a co-worker can attend her child’s holiday party or take her packages to the post office. She’ll appreciate your gift of service more than any token you could buy.

10. Skip yourself. Avoid “to me, from me” gifts, says Long.

When you see something you like, write it on a wish list. Your spouse and kids will be happy to give you Tame Your Holiday something you’ll really Spending enjoy.

With These Cool Tools

Compare prices www.pricegrabber. com Track expenses on your iphone www.budgetcare.com or android www.handy-apps.com Learn the cost of credit www.practicalmoneyskills.com/wizards/credit/ index.php Score travel discounts www.travelzoo.com Budget-friendly advice www.notmadeofmoney.com

Bottom line: Stop spending and savor your good fortune this holiday season. True abundance is in your heart and your home, not at the mall.  Heidi Smith Luedtke is a personality psychologist and mom of two. Get more psychology lessons for real life at www.HeidiLuedtke.com

Set of 4 tickets (2 adult/2 kids) Entries must be received by

Dec. 15, 2013.

Name: ______________________________ Phone: ______________________________ Address:_____________________________ City: ________________________________ State: ______________ Zip: _____________

Ages 2-12. Excludes Front Row and Gold Circle seats.

No double discounts. Additional fees may apply.



JAN. 31 & FEB. 1

CHARLESTON CIVIC CENTER

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Buy tickets at Ticketmaster.com, Retail Locations, Charleston Civic Center Box Office or call 1-800-745-3000.

247533

Send your entry to: WV Family Magazine, Attn: Book Give-Away, P.O. Box 107, Buckhannon, WV 26201

Winners will be chosen by random drawings. Deadline for entries is Dec. 15, 2013. Winners will be announced in an upcoming issue of WV Family Magazine. As always, we never share your information with third parties.

Fri. 7:30 PM Sat. 2:00 & 7:30 PM

© 2013 Feld Motor Sports, Inc. Competitors shown are subject to change.

November/December 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

KIDS’ SEATS $5!

Monster Jam Ticket Give-Away

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is just around the corner!

Advertise your summer camp or program in West Virginia Family Magazine's Annual Summer Camps & Programs Directory Coming in Mar/Apr & May/Jun issues!

The Unplugged Wonder of a Winter Road Trip 8 Activities Prove - Half the Fun is Getting There!

by Michele Ranard, M.Ed.

S

o much about family road tripping has changed! I remember what a big deal it was when FM joined AM on the radio, but now…DVDs, DSs, video games—kids have more entertainment than ever to stave off boredom and enjoy the ride.

Still, all that electronic media can leave families disconnected. Can you honestly stomach watching “The Incredibles” one more time? There are plenty of healthy creative unplugged activities for kids which will keep them occupied during the long drives.

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

Take these suggestions to create lasting memories before you even arrive at your destination, and re-connect with the ones you love most.

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1. Pipe Cleaner Paradise. A pack of inexpensive pipe cleaners and a nail clipper will keep fidgety kids happy for long stretches of travel time. They can bend the fuzzy sticks or wrap them around pencils to form cheerful colorful creatures. The best part?

When they’re satisfied with their creation, they can play imaginative games with them for more stimulating fun.

Free camp listing in our Annual Camp Directory and our Online Camp Fair with any size ad. Call today: 304-472-4528. Email: info@wvfamilymagazine.com

WEST VIRGINIA

FAMILY

M A G A Z I N E November/December 2013

2. Cootie Catcher. Remember these things?

You pick a color, then a number, then you get to read your fortune. You only have to show your kids how to do this once before they’ll be able to come up with variations and stay busy for hours!

3. Figures & Games With String. Supplies required: string. They can make “Jacob’s Ladder,” “Kitty Whiskers,” “Cup and Saucer,” or play “Cat’s Cradle.” AND IT”S QUIET!!!

4. Go Nuts With Foil. Remember when shiny, reflective aluminum foil was magical to you? Give your artsy imaginative kids a cheap roll and watch them go to town! They can transform themselves into superheroes, making masks and “power bracelets.” Girls especially might enjoy constructing tiaras, jewelry, and headbands. And it’s fun to sculpt foil into cool animals—with no cleanup!

5. Old School Card Games. Card games are great for traveling because a deck is easy to transport, and there are tons of games to play. Crazy Eights and Old Maid are two possible kid pleasers.

6. License Plate Game. Before you leave, print out a map of the U.S. so the kids can color in the states as they see license plates.

They can even record the time and date they saw it.

7. Virtual Hide and Seek. This guessing game is a hoot! Pick a place inside your house to hide (in your imagination) — and here’s the fun part — it can be any size at all! A sock drawer, the dishwasher, the medicine cabinet…everybody asks questions until they narrow it down and find you.

8. Make a Wacky Roadside Stop. Go to the website www.roadsideamerica.com to find quirky, eccentric, touristy, places to visit. The kids will remember these nutty detours with you forever.  Michele Ranard is a professional counselor/tutor and mother of two. She loves a good road trip and authors the popular inspirational blog Hello Lovely.

Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e

Gifts that Give These websites donate a portion of your purchase to a charitable cause: P.C Progeny is a family business born from the idea of a 10 year old. Find fun and stylish ties and cufflinks. With each purchase, PC donates $5 to Donors Choose which supports public school classrooms across the country. www.pcprogeny.com.

Pick Up Dine-In Delivery

Subs Salads

All You Can Eat Pizza and Salad Buffet!

Adults $5.49, Age 10 & under $3.25 (does not include drink), Age 4 & under Free with Adult Buffet

472-0281

Luna Roasters Gourmet Coffee & Tea Every cup you drink makes a difference in the life of a child! $5 from every bag purchased goes to the Children's Hospital of Colorado. www.lunaroasters.com.

FEED the Children of the World FEED began in 2005 by model Lauren Bush when she designed a reversible burlap/organic cotton, stylish bag to benefit the United Nations World Food Programme's (WFP). The bag was stamped with "FEED the Children of the World" and helped to raise funds and awareness. To date, FEED has raised enough money through sales of the FEED products to provide over 60 million school meals to children around the world. Bags, totes, accessories, and apparel. www.feedprojects.com.

Pizza

Hoagies

Rt 20 Southfork Center Buckhannon

Land 1017 Fairmont Avenue, Fairmont, WV 26554

 Ages 6 weeks to 12 years  Monday through Friday  6 a.m. to 6 p.m.  Before School and After School care

www.learninglandwv.com

Tina Peterman, Director email: tinapeterman@ma.rr.com

Phone: 304-333-0186 Fax: 304-333-0187

Roma Boots - Roma Boots combines fashion with charity! For every pair of boots sold, they give a brand new pair to a child in need. Additionally, 10% of all sales proceeds go to help those children break out of poverty and despair. Roma boots are all weather rain boots, sophisticated and fun, for business and casual. http://romaboots.com

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Weston Ear, Nose, and Throat and Audiology is now located for your convenience at the intersection of Rt. 33 and Interstate 79 John Wyllie, M.D. Phone 304-517-1401 for your appointment Open Mon. -Fri. 8 to 4 456 Suite C Market Place Mall Weston, WV

Diana Daugherty, Au.D. November/December 2013

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Family Pets

Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guid

GIFT IDEAS Sixth Annual

Pets Add Life

s t e p r fo

Children’s Poetry Contest CALLING ALL CREATIVE STUDENTS! American Pet Products Association (APPA) encourages students in grades 3rd - 8th to submit creative poems about their pets for a shot at scholarship dollars and other pet prizes. This is a great opportunity for kids to creatively express their love for their pets, from hermit crabs, fish, cats, and dogs, to rabbits, horses, and everything in between.

Students are invited to write a unique poem about their pets, what they love about them and the joys they bring. Then post it online at www.PetsAddLife.org, via PAL’s Facebook page (www.Facebook.com/petsaddlife), or mail their final poem and submission form to: Pets Add Life, 661 Sierra Rose Drive, Reno, NV 89511.

Deadline for submissions is January 31, 2014 at 5:00 p.m. EST. Teachers within the contest grade levels are welcome to incorporate this national contest into their lesson plans, and submit poems as one entry, on behalf of the class.

One student from each grade level (6 total) nationwide will win a $250 gift certificate for pet products and a “by-line” in the nationally circulated publication. The six winners’ classrooms will each win a $1,000 scholarship to spend on pet-related education or to support a pet in their classroom.

Donate to an Animal Shelter as Your Family Gift This Year

Area shelters are in need of donations to help make it a merry Christmas for shelter pets.

Either make a money donation (many shelters can now take credit cards through their website), or check the shelter's Wish List and purchase items they need. Make it a family event to shop for the items and deliver them. Go ahead and say hello to some of the animals!

They will love the company.

Pet Name Picture Mat

Quality 5”x7” wood picture mat personalized with your pet’s name. Mat is made of red oak wood (frame sold separately). $12.00/pet mat. www.nameframes.com

Sometimes Doggie Shotz even a healthy baby

will cry for hours.

Is Fido or Fluffy tired of the same dog food Stay calm day in and day out? Does your BFF (Best try to soothe your baby.

Furry Friend) sniff his food and walk away?

If you’re frustrated, make sure Flavor his ordinary dog food with Doggie your baby is safe, then walk away.

Shotz! Healthier than table scraps and 90% fat free, this line NEVER shake a baby. of nutritious and flavorful dog food additives is gluten-free and contains a unique blend of essential vitamins and minerals. Can You could cause serious be added to Fluffy's food bowl every meal without worry of extra permanent injury. calories. A great stocking stuffer for your pet. $5.99 per 9 oz www.healthybabieswv.com bottle. Assorted flavors available. www.doggieshotz.com

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MIDDLETOWN MALL Santa Claus Arrives at Middletown Mall Friday, November29 @ 1 pm

Santa Hours: Monday - Friday 4-7 pm Saturday - 1-7 pm Sunday 1-4 pm Fri., Dec. 20 & Mon., Dec. 23 1-7 pm December 24 11am - 3 pm

9329 Middletown Mall White Hall, WV 26554

304-363-3230

Learn how to soothe a crying baby at www.purplecrying.info/

P.eople U.nited for R.escue & R.ehabilitation P.U.R.R. West Virginia Inc.

Too often cats are not valued in our rescue system. P.U.R.R. is changes reality for cats and kittens everyday, by giving them the care and value they deserve. Your donations will help us help them!

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

Children’s Hospital

Every Donation Helps!

Please Give A Gift of Life!

help@purrwv.org www.purrwv.org March/April 2013

November/December 2013

3

e m o s e aw

ide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e

STOCKING STUFFER

IDEAS

• gift certificates (favorite store, restaurant) • music CD • movie DVD • fireplace DVD • cellphone holder • mouse rug/pad • scented pencils • batteries • concert tickets • movie tickets • sport event tickets • lottery tickets • chocolates/candy • magazine subscription • book • puzzle book • journal/diary • craft supplies • game for electronic devices • hobby items • perfume/cologne • jewelry

FAMILY AND IMPLANT DENTISTRY Thomas E. Condron, D.D.S. 234 Court Street Clarksburg, WV 26301

Consider joining us!

Registration is on-going.

304-623-4984

http://music.wvu.edu/community_ music_program

We Can Make A Difference!

304-293-6946

*An accredited program thru the National Association of Schools of Music.

NERIUM

TM

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No matter how young or old you are, great skin begins with NeriumADTM. Real science, Real results, Real people. Proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, texture, tone, and aging skin.

NeriumAD's main ingredient is a natural botanical antioxidant that is patented and exclusive to Nerium.

Contact Debbie Burget to learn more about NeriumADTM and other products. Phone: 304-534-7841 Email: BurgetSkinCare@ gmail.com. Website: www.BurgetSkinCare.com.

For graduation rates, median debt, and other important info, visit our website: www.oicwv.org

Gift Ideas for the Teacher

www.oicwv.org

Medical Coding

Check out these Family-Fun events for the HOLIDAYS! * Christmas Spectacular at American Mountain Theater - See page 8. * Monster Jam event at Charleston Civic Center - see page 11. * The Nutcracker by Morgantown Dance and Morgantown Ballet Company - see page 18. * Christmas Light Shows - see page 19. * One-Horse Open Sleigh Rides - see page 15 and page 20. * Adaland Mansion tours and events - see page 22.

For more family-friendly events, see our calendar on pages 17 and 19.

Enrolling Now!

Apply Online

(304) 366-8142 888-999-1602

oicfmt@oicwv.org

Medical Assistant Dental Assistant Pharmacy Tech.

Giddy Up, Giddy Up, Giddy Up, Let's Go . . .

For a Traditional Sleigh Ride in a Wonderland of Snow!!

Enjoy Our One-Horse Open Sleigh, Complete With the "Jingle" of Sleigh Bells at Canaan Valley Resort beginning December 20, 2013, natural snow dependent.

Call ahead for hours and availability.

304-866-4121 or 1-800-622-4121 canaanresort.com or mountaintrailrides.com November/December 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Classroom materials for the library or stations in the room School supplies Gift card Avoid giving baked goods, lotions, soaps, body sprays, and items made "FOR" teachers.

The best gift is a big hug and a thank you!

WVU Community Music Program*

15

Volunteer Opportunities November is Family Volunteer Month

Overcome These Obstacles

&Volunteer

D

o you ever think of volunteering with your kids as a little like eating broccoli? It's something you know you should do, but you can't get excited about it?

way I can get them to volunteer to work somewhere else."

Sure, you've heard about the benefits: volunteering can teach your children how to be compassionate for others and caring of the world around them. While helping out they can learn new skills, gain self-confidence, and learn about people with different backgrounds and beliefs.

Yet when you think about signing up, all you may be able to focus on are the obstacles. Fortunately, overcoming those barriers is a lot easier than learning to love broccoli.

"My kids already spend time on service projects through their Scout troops, there's no need for us to spend more time volunteering."

Here are several common objections to volunteering along with ways to rise above them.

It's true that service organizations of many types help kids learn the pleasures of giving their time. But there's also an advantage to be gained from working together as a family. You get to see your kids succeed at tasks they may not normally do, and you may also find out about issues that are important to them. And it's not bad that your children get to watch you commit your time and energy to something you believe is important. Another bonus: the possibility of meeting other families who believe in the same causes you do.

It's true that many organizations have age restrictions about who is allowed to volunteer. But you may be able to work on a project that doesn't involve showing up onsite. For instance, if you kids really love animals but they are too young to volunteer at a shelter, your family may be able to organize a blanket or towel drive, collect dog food, or make cat toys. The bonus is that when you deliver your goods, you'll probably be able to spend a little quality time playing with the animals you're helping.

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

by Cindy Hudson

The key is to make volunteering more like fun than work, which it can be. And you need to get buy-in from everyone involved. If you present a volunteer opportunity to your kids as something they will do whether they "like it or not," you'll almost certainly get resistance. But if you ask their opinions and give them a voice in choosing a cause to work for or a project to help out on, you may be surprised at the enthusiasm they show.

"We'll volunteer eventually, but my children are too young now."

16

With Your Family

"There are so many good causes, there's no way we can decide on one to get our help." Think about your interests to help you decide where to give your time. Many non-profit service organizations can be broken down into three broad categories: human welfare, environmental welfare, or animal welfare. Once you define your broad category, think about what your family members like to do. For instance, if you all like being outdoors, you can work at a community garden for a local food bank to benefit human welfare. You can help clean up litter from local beaches or riverbanks to help the environment.

Or you may want to participate in a backyard bird count or help restore a wild habitat to contribute to animal welfare.

"I can't even get my kids to help out around the house, there's no November/December 2013

Once you break the volunteer barrier, don't be surprised if you find yourself adding a regular project to your family's calendar.

There's something about Check these online sites for more helping an organization ideas on how your whole family or contributing to an issue you care about that's can get involved in helping out: good for you. Just like broccoli, only better.  http://www.handsonnetwork.org/ http://thevolunteerfamily.org/ http://www.volunteermatch.org/ http://liveunited.org/volunteer/ http://idealist.org/

Cindy Hudson has volunteered as part of Girl Scout troops, school groups, mother-daughter book clubs, and with her family and friends. She lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband and two daughters.

Visit her online at www.

MotherDaughterBookClub. com.

 Family Calendar

November/December 2013

Deadline for the next issue is December 1, 2013. The next issue will be on shelves January/February and is our Family Health & Baby Guide issue. Send us your family-friendly event.

Please call 304-472-4528 or email: info@wvfamilymagazine.com.

Calendar also listed on our calendar page at www.WVFamilyOnline.com ONGOING

Sundays are Family Day at the Morgantown Ice Arena 1001 Mississippi St., Morgantown, WV. 1:30 – 4:00 p.m. A family of four skates for $10, with skate rentals $20. Add additional family members for $2. 304-2926865. www.boparc.org.

Thursdays 4:30 p.m. $15 per session. 304-5992WOW (2969) www. thewowfactoryonline. com. See ad on page 9.

The Polar Express Rides - Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad Elkins, WV. The Polar Express begins Nov. 7 – reserve your tickets today! Mtn-rail.com or call 866-874-7653.

Horseback Riding - Open Year Round at Mountain Trail Rides, 255 Freeland, Davis, WV. Horseback riding in the beautiful mountains of Canaan Valley, WV. 304-866-4652 www.mountaintrailrides.com.

WVReads150 is a reading challenge for all ages to celebrate WV's 150th Birthday. Individuals and teams are invited to read 150 books between Jan. 1 - Dec. 31, 2013. Visit your local library to register or for more information.

Private Music Lessons Saint Paul School of Music LIFE UMC Clarksburg and Fairmont locations. New students accepted anytime.

Beginner - Advanced. Ages 5 & up. 304-3663758. See ad on page 23.

Tickets on sale now! Monster Jam Show will take place on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1 at the Charleston Civic Center. Kids' seats only $5 (ages 2-12) with a paying adult. See ad on page 11.

WV Family Magazine

Studio Kids Classes at The Wow Factory, Morgantown, WV. Ages 5-12 Tuesday or

2014 Cover Photo Contest - see information on page 6. NOVEMBER November is FAMILY VOLUNTEER Month.

November is ADOPT A SENIOR PET Month.

Nov 1 All Saint's Day Nov 3 Daylight Saving Time Ends. Also

www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Visit us Online

Nov 3-9 National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week Nov 11 Veterans Day Nov 13 World Kindness Day Nov 15-17 4th Annual WV Arts & Crafts Christmas Spectacular Mylan Park Expo Center, 500 Mylan Park Lane, Morgantown, WV. Over 170 booths! Fri & Sat 10-5, Sun 10-4.

724-863-4577 www.familyfestivals.com Nov 23-24 The Nutcracker presented by Morgantown Dance and Morgantown Ballet Company, Metropolitan Theatre, Morgantown, WV. Cast of area dancers and guest artists.

304-292-3266. morgantowndance.org See ad on page 18.

Nov 23-Dec 21 3rd Annual Christmas in the Park (Saturdays only) Riverbend Miniature Golf, Veterans Memorial Park, Clarksburg, WV. 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Come see the lights, play miniature golf, and other family-friendly activities also will be available. Small fee for mini-golf. 304-624-1655.

Continued on page 19

Visit our NEW website!

• Read our entire issue online.

• Hundreds of articles and tips for all ages and interests.

• Absolutely free.

• Fun & interactive.

• No need to leave home to find our current copy.

November/December 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

P.U.R.R. WV Adoption Events are ongoing at various locations around North Central WV. P.U.R.R. WV is a no-kill cat rescue Please go to http://www.purrwv.org/html/events.html for dates and locations. $5 Friday Adoptions at Eastern Pet Supply 9 a.m. See ad on page 14.

check batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

17



Safe Teen Driving Series

The Road To Safer Teen Driving

by Kiki Bochi

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

With all the pressure to take advanced classes in high school, many kids don t get the opportunity to take Driver's Education.

That means the responsibility is on parents, now more than ever, to keep kids safe on the road.

Many parents tend to focus on teaching kids to never drink and drive, and that is good. But it is only part of the story. Two thirds of car accidents that involve teens have nothing to do with alcohol or substance abuse, according to a recent study

by Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

Instead, inexperience, distractibility and impulsiveness are the biggest factors that cause kids to crash. And all of those factors are things parents can impact before they hand over the car keys.

It is critical that teens get lots of experience in all kinds of driving situations while a parent is still supervising and guiding the process, says Arthur Goodwin, a senior research associate with the Center for the Study of Young Drivers at the University of North Carolina.

As nerve-wracking as it can be, parents must allow kids to drive more often and

18

under tough conditions while they have their learner's permits. To help, the center has developed an iPhone application (software/program, aka "app") designed to help parents boost their teen's driving experience.

The idea grew from research that shows many teens do not get enough newly licensed teen driver. Another feature practice, especially in challenging situa- is a hard stop meter that will help parents tions, such as: driving in the dark, driving and teens identify when the teen brakes in bad weather, or in heavy traffic. As a re- too hard. The goal is to help teens learn sult, when teens begin driving without an to brake sooner and more gradually, since adult in the car, their crash rate increases braking too late is one of the most common sharply. contributors to teenage driver crashes.

Whether you use an app or not, practice is Time to Drive can be purchased in the needed. But an app may speak more loudly Apple iTunes store. Proceeds go toward to today's kids than yelling at them from supporting research by the Center for the the passenger seat.

Study of Young Drivers. For more inforThe app, called Time To Drive, helps par- mation, see www.timetodriveapp.com.  ents track how much time kids spend driving, along what routes, and in what conKiki Bochi is the Managing Editor of ditions. In addition, the app also provides Broward Family Life tips on how to handle a teen who may be Morgantown Dance and the scared to drive, or how to choose an apMorgantown Ballet Company propriate vehicle for a present

Looking Glass CONSIGNMENT CLARKSBURG LOCATION IS NOW SELLING & ACCEPTING KIDS' CLOTHES OF ALL AGES! 312 West Main Street (Across from Court House)

304-969-9334

Formal Wear, Men’s, Women’s, Childrens, Evening Gowns/Bridal/Tux, and Accessories Professional/Business Shell & Beth Hoskinson

http://lookingglassbridgeport.com "Like" us on Facebook Email: looking.glass@live.com November/December 2013

The Nutcracker

with a cast of area dancers and guest artists Amanda Cochrane and Nurlan Abougaliev of Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre November 23 and 24, 2013 Metropolitan Theatre, Morgantown For more information, call 304-292-3266 or go to morgantowndance.org Group ticket rates available

continued from page 17

Nov 24-30 National Family Week Nov 27 Hanukkah Begins (ends at nightfall on Dec. 5).

Nov 28 Thanksgiving Day Nov 29 Santa Arrives at Middletown Mall Fairmont, WV. 1:00 p.m. Santa hours Nov 29-Dec 24: Mon-Fri 4-7, Sat 1-7, Sun 1-4, Dec 20 and 23 1-7, Dec 24 11-3. 304363-3230.

Nov 29, 30, Dec 1, 4, 7, 8, 11, 14, 15, 18, 21, 22 Christmas Spectacular at American Mountain Theater Elkins, WV. A magical show of Christmas comedy and musical selections. See ad on page 8 for dates and times. 304-630-3040. www.americanmountaintheater.com.

Nov 30-Dec 1 Christmas Craft Shows at Buchannon Armory and B-U Middle School, Route 20 South, Buckhannon, WV. Now in its 31st year, the annual Craft Shows of Buckhannon give Holiday Shoppers a unique shopping choice. 100+ crafters and vendors. 304-472-1400. www.visitbuckhannon.org. DECEMBER

Dec 6-8 Annual 18th Century Christmas Market Prickett’s Fort State Park, Fairmont, WV. Fri. & Sat. 10-4, Sun. 12-4. Beautifully handcrafted gifts, historic tours, artisans, live music, hot wassail. www.prickettsfort.org. 304-363-3030.

Dec. 7 Beverly Old-Fashioned Christmas Beverly, WV. Get into the Christmas spirit with Beverly’s Victorian Santa and shopping at Beverly's unique shops. Christmas music, activities, and shopping specials. www.historicbeverly.org.

Dec 7 Keith Urban in Concert Charleston Civic Center, Charleston, WV. One of the industry’s most electrifying live performers, four-time Grammy Award winner, and American Idol judge, with Little Big Town and special guest Dustin Lynch. Visit www. charlestonwvciviccenter.com for dates and times. 304-346-0164.

Dec 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 21 The Wizard of OZ WV Public Theatre, Morgantown, WV. Times: Dec. 7, 8, 14, & 15 at 2:00 p.m., Dec. 13 & 21 at 7:00 p.m. School Matinees (for schools, children's groups, daycares, homeschoolers, etc...) are also available, please check website for dates, times, and ticket prices. For more information visit www. wvpublictheatre.org. 304-291-4122.

Dec 8 Santa Arrives at the 3rd Annual Christmas in the Park Riverbend Miniature Golf, Veterans Memorial Park, Clarksburg, WV. Have cookies and cocoa with Santa, have your picture taken, and play mini golf. Small fee for mini-golf. 304-624-1655.

Dec. 14 Feast of the Seven Fishes Fairmont, WV. Celebrate the Italian Christmas Eve tradition at this one-day event that includes with food, shopping, music, cooking demos, fish, and a street market. Visit www.mainstreetfairmont.org for more info. 10 am - 4 pm.

Dec 18 Adaland Mansion Candlelight Tour Philippi, WV. Enjoy every room decorated in holiday traditional and special themes. 304-457-1587 www.adaland.org.

Dec 21 Winter Solstice (Winter begins) Dec 25 Christmas Day Dec 26 Kwanzaa begins (ends Jan. 1) Dec 31 New Years Eve 

Book Give-Away Winners: Coconut Set: Meadow McQuain - Fairmont American Girl Set: Kyndal Davis - Buckhannon Captain No-Beard Sets: Gia Corsini - Clarksburg, Trenton Flood Terra Alta, Christopher Burnside - French Creek, Brenda Swecker - Huttonsville, Valerie Kisamore - Morgantown

Christmas Light Shows Always call to confirm dates and times!

The Winter Festival of Lights Oglebay

Resort & Conference Center, Wheeling, WV. Six mile drive of Christmas lights. Listed as one of the 10 Best Christmas Light Displays in the US, according to AOL Travel. November 8, 2013 January 5, 2014, Sun. through Thurs. dusk to 10:00 p.m., and Fri. and Sat. until 11:00 p.m. Donation appreciated. www.oglebay-resort.com

Christmas Fantasy Light Show Krodel

Park, Point Pleasant, WV. Unique light displays include Santa Claus, Santa’s Workshop, a sternwheel, a 20 foot windmill, gingerbread men, the Mothman, and many more. New additions each year. (Donations encouraged.) 5:30-9:30 Mon-Sat. Nov. 15- Dec 31 304-675-6788.

Christmas Light Show & Drive Thru

Point Pleasant, WV. This light show is located at the WV State Farm Museum. The light show boasts more than four million lights on the farm.

Visitors can drive or walk the pathway of lights.

Plenty of parking available. Children can visit with Santa nightly and enjoy hot cocoa & cookies. Free admission. Country Kitchen amd Country Store will be open. 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Dec. 13 until Dec. 22. 304-675-5737 www.wvfarmmuseum.org.

Celebration of Lights Morris Park, Pleasant

Valley Road (I-79, exit 135), Fairmont, WV. Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from Nov. 29- Dec. 29. 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. Drive thru 1.3 miles with over 100 Christmas displays. A $5 donation per a car benefits United Way of Marion County.

304-612-4818. www.celebrationoflightswv.com.

Christmas-In-The-Park Chief Logan State

Park, Logan, WV. A winter wonderland light show where the entire park is decorated with light displays and life size Christmas cards. It is open from Thanksgiving through December 31. Dark until 10 p.m. Donations accepted. 304-792-7125.

43rd Olde Tyme Christmas Historical Harpers Ferry, WV. Get in the holiday spirit as the streets of this 1860 living history village is decked out in holiday decorations, merchants dressed in period costumes, and a schedule of family-friendly activities including caroling, musical performances, storytelling, and more. Weekends Nov. 29, 30, Dec. 1, 5, 7, 8. 10 a.m - 5 p.m. http://historicharpersferry.com  *Tell them you saw them in WV FAMILY Magazine!* November/December 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Dec 15 Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker Charleston Civic Center, Charleston, WV. More than 20 years touring North America! The classic Christmas story with a unique Russian zest. A holiday favorite for families. 5:00 p.m.

Visit www.charlestonwvciviccenter.com for dates and times. 304-346-0164.

Oglebay Park, Wheeling, WV

19

Gift Picks: ditor’s E

Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide

Highlights for Children Hidden Pictures Club Highlights for Children, a long time trusted publisher of children's magazines and activity books, has just introduced two different age levels of Hidden Pictures Clubs. This monthly club brings two 32 page puzzle books to each subscriber for $10.98 plus S&H/ month. Choose from Let's Play for 3-6 year olds or Eagle-Eye for ages 6 and up. In addition to hours of fun, puzzles help children build concentration, visual perception, logic, and language skills. For more information, go to store.highlights.com/puzzle-book-clubs/hidden-pictures-club.

3 Step Cleansing Starter Kit for Girls Good For You Girls has been the leader in all natural skin care for the beauty beginner since 2008. Deep cleansing and bacteria fighting botanicals are balanced with organic extracts, vitamins and anti-oxidants that pamper and protect young skin. All products are free from parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals, phthalates, synthetic fragrance and dyes. Good For You GIrls products are also Gluten Free and Vegan. $19.99 www.goodforyougirls.com.

Advertisement

isABelt - The Invisible Belt This belt is a thin, strong and flexible clear plastic belt, that virtually disappears when worn, providing you with the assurance that all is secure without even knowing it's there. isABelt prevents back gap, slippage, and of course belt bulk and belt bulge in the front buckle area. A great stocking stuffer. isABelt comes in clear and black. $16.95 Original/$19.95 Wide isabelt.com.

One-Horse Open Sleigh

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

by Kim Bennett

t’s that time of year again, when lyrics to songs that we learned as youngsters come to mind. When, driving down the road, we find ourselves singing “Over the river and through the woods . . ” or “Dashing through the snow . . . “ Both of these songs learned during our childhood remain with us through our adult years.

We sometimes quite can’t remember the lyrics, and find ourselves searching for the right words.

As a child, I vividly remember visualizing the horse and sleigh described in both of

20

November/December 2013

I

those songs. I had to use my imagination, using pictures as a reference, because I never had the opportunity to actually see a horse-drawn sleigh in person.

Residents of North Central West Virginia now have the opportunity to see, and ride, a one-horse open sleigh during the winter months by visiting Canaan Valley Resort State Park. This amenity is offered on snowy weekends and holiday periods beginning December 20 and continuing throughout the winter season. Sleigh rides are natural snow dependent, to verify rides call 1-800-622-4121.

The rides are given by as a cooperative effort between the resort and a local horseback riding stable, Mountain Trail Rides. Rides will be given on Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

and on Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Rides begin and end at the resort’s newly expanded snow tubing area. The sleigh holds 5-8 people depending on adult/child ratio. Ride duration is between 20-30 mintues. Reservations are suggested.

Other winter activities offered at the resort include snow tubing, downhill and cross-country skiing, and ice skating.

Lodging packages which include winter activities are also available.

If you are interested in more information on horse-drawn sleigh rides or other winter activities, please feel free to call Canaan Valley Resort State Park at 304-866-4121 or visit their website, canaanresort.com.

Winter horseback rides are also available at Mountain Trail Rides by reservation.

For more information, please call 304866-4652 or visit their website at www. mountaintrailrides.com

e Gift Guide e

Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Adopt-A-Turtle Give a Gift Membership to the Sea Turtle Conservation by adopting an endangered sea turtle. For a donation of $30 or more, you or the person of your choice will receive a personalized adoption certificate, a Sea Turtle Conservation Guide, a membership window cling, a sea turtle sticker and bookmark, a hatchling magnet, and a one-year subscription to STC’s membership publication, all in a keepsake sea turtle folder. $30.00+ AdoptASeaTurtle.org

My Story of America Inspirational Stories of Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness

by Michael T. George Dr. Michael T. George grew up in a small town in WV. He is the son of a decorated veteran of the Vietnam war. Through his travels across America, he met ordinary people with stories of perseverance through extraordinary circumstances. My Story of America is stories of eight individuals and their experience with trials of faith and freedom, battles of life and liberty, and the pursuit of peace and prosperity. http://mystoryofamerica.com $19.99 Hardcover/$14.99 Paperback.

RingStix This new outdoor game has won multiple awards: Best Family Fun Award by Tillywig Toy Awards, Best Toys 2012 Award by Best Toys Guide, 10 Best Active Products by Dr. Toy, and Gold Award by Family Review Center. It is a fun and exciting game which is quickly learned. RingStix is the worlds only game/sport that coordinates both hands simultaneously. This game can be played anywhere. Set comes with four stix and one ring. Each player needs two stix to launch the ring. $14.99+/ Set, $6.99 Replacement Rings (2). www.ringstix.com

• Pasta Basket • Spa Basket • Movie Night Basket • Fruit Basket • Chocolate Lovers Basket • Gardener Basket • Pet Lovers Basket • College Student Basket • Munchies Basket • Chef’s Basket • Baby Basket • Fisherman Basket • Healthy Food Basket • Pizza Lovers Basket • Teacher Basket • Sports Basket • Crafts Basket

Gift Ideas for Teens Movie tickets Gift Card to a favorite clothing store Gift Card to a favorite restaurant Gift Card for music downloads Gift Card for apps Tickets for two: amusement park, bowling, gameroom, rock climbing, lazer tag, horseback riding Photo album or scrapbook Favorite Team shirt or other apparel Basket full of their favorite snacks Give a gift that gives back check out page 13. Cash!

November/December 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Holiday Hair Accessories for girls.

Launched in 2009 by mom-preneur, Lisa Hustad, My Sunshine Shoppe is the perfect place to find cute accessories for your little diva. Great stocking stuffers, holiday portrait accessories, or party pieces. Whether she is a two year old or tween, these adorable headbands, hats, clips, and jewelry will be her go to piece to stand out and be festive. Prices vary. www.mysunshineshoppe.com

CableKeeps TM for iPad and iPhone chargers.

Give your charger some added personality and utility. CableKeeps slip over your power adaptor and keeps your cable tangle free, while also keeping the adaptor and charger together. It can also be used as a charging pedestal. Comes in assorted colors. $16.00 www.nicebydesign.com

BASKET IDEAS

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Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e Gift Guide e

5 of the Most Popular Children's Toys for Christmas 2013 (& Hardest to Find)

Zoomer Interactive Dog Bring home a new addition to the family! Zoomer mimics actual canine movements. He can learn tricks such as sit and roll over, wags his tail, barks, and may even "pee" if not getting enough attention. List price: $99.99+.

Zelfs Zelfs come from the secret and magical garden called Zardenia.

Zelfs are cute and collectible.

Each has their own personality and comes with fun styling accesssories to style their hair. Three sizes and are more fun with more zelfs. List price $2.99 Lil Zelf, $6.99 Medium Zelf, $12.99 Large Zelf.

Big Hugs Elmo When he receives a hug, Big Hugs Elmo moves his arms to hug back.

Elmo sings three songs and plays four fun activities. When laid down, he becomes sleepy, sings a lullaby, and makes sleeping sound effects to soothe your little one to sleep. List price: $49.99+.

Mario & Sonic at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games Join your favorite characters as they team up and compete in the most exciting sports events at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games. Compete in 24 thrilling events including bobsleigh, skiing, figure skating pairs, and even snowboard slopestyle, which will make its Olympic debut in Sochi, Russia! Release date - November 8.

List price: $49.99+.

Hassle Free Printing We Take Printing Seriously…Not Ourselves.

LEGO Minecraft Micro World Building Set Build a mini model of the Minecraft game that’s sweeping the Internet with a LEGO microbuild version. 480 pieces making for hours of building fun, and once you’ve completed the main project build, you can also make your own creation. The LEGO Building Set contains a hidden mine underneath a lush green terrain. List price: $44.99+.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places

& Historic Barn

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

Philippi, WV

22

Shweiki Media Ad

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November/December 2013

Adaland Mansion is a stately home built in 1870 and restored with period decor and furnishings. During the Christmas season, every room is decorated to combine holiday tradition and special themes.

Regular tours run through December 31. Special Holiday Tours Dec. 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29 11-4 p.m. Christmas festivities include Open House, Buffet Dinners, Candlelight Tour, Christmas Tea, & more.

Wed., Thurs., and Sat. 11 am to 5 pm / Sun. 1-5 pm or by appointment. $10 adults. Children under 12 are free with parents.

Calendar of Events Nov. 16 Christmas Buffet Tea Nov. 30 Christmas Open House Dec. 1 & 15 Christmas Buffet Dinner

Dec. 8 Christmas High/Royal Tea Dec. 18 Christmas Candlelight Tour Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Buffet

Please check website for times and admission.

304-457-1587 info@adaland.org www.adaland.org

The Gift of Class Give the gift of a class!

The recipient will learn skills and make memories that will last a lifetime!

The

Artist Studio

See the ads on this page for classes to consider for adults or children in: Music,Theatre, Art, Dance, and Cooking.

www.LeaseburgArt.com

304-622-8606

Art classes

Get ready to dance!

for adults and kids (ages 6-12).

Private Parties & More

We offer the Leap ’n Learn program for children 3-6 and classes in ballet, modern, tap and more for children and adults at all levels Fall classes begin September 3

354 West Main Street, Clarksburg

Private Music Lessons

Auditions Saturday, August 24

SAINT PAUL SCHOOL OF MUSIC LIFE UMC Fairmont, WV

Dancers age 5 and up are invited to audition for Morgantown Dance’s 2013 production of The Nutcracker to be performed at The Metropolitan Theatre Nov. 23-24.

Check our website for audition times.

New Students Accepted Anytime

Beginner - Advanced Ages 5 & up 304-366-3758

Morgantown Dance Studio For information or to register call 304-292-3266 or visit us at www.morgantowndance.org

CampKids Playhouse

Fall Art Classes for Kids

“Studio Kids”

at The Old Brick Playhouse in

Elkins, WV. Summer theatre training for every age.

Spring Art Classes for Kids

For ages 5-12 years Tuesday or Thursday Afternoon @ 4:30pm $15/session

For more information call

Hands-On!

304-637-9090

Fall Art Classes for Kids Fall Art Classes for Kids

www.theoldbrick.org

“Studio Kids” *Tell them you saw them in West Virginia FAMILY Magazine!* “Studio Kids” For ages 5-12 years

For ages Afternoon 5-12 years @ 4:30pm Tuesday or Thursday Tuesday or Thursday Afternoon @ 4:30pm $15/session $15/session

Do you know a child who is not: *moving *hearing * seeing

West Virginia Family Mag ad * learning or *talking like others their age?

3.25 wide x 2.875 high” www.ProductiveParenting.com

Fall 2013/Back to School Directory Every child deserves a 1‐866‐321‐4728 GREAT START! www.wvdhhr.org/birth23 Equipping parents, developing families. Fun, Free, & Simple daily activities offered for newborn babies to children age 5.

WV Birth to Three services and supports are provided under Part C of the individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) and administered through the WV Department of Health and Human Resources, Office of Maternal, Child and Family Health.

www.dentist4kids.org

November/December 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Gift Certificates are good for any class.

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School-Based Health Centers . . . . . healthy children make better students

Braxton County Braxton County Middle School Braxton County High School Clay County Big Otter Elementary School Clay Elementary School Clay Middle School Clay High School Harrison County Lost Creek Elementary South Harrison Middle School South Harrison High School West Milford Elementary Pocahontas County Green Bank Elementary/Middle Marlinton Elementary Pocahontas County High School Upshur County Academy Elementary Buckhannon-Upshur High School French Creek Elementary

Community Care's School-Based Health Services focus on a wide variety of Pediatric care. In the schools, we provide comprehensive pediatric care for children in pre-K through high school. Our medical personnel provide a family centered approach to improving the health and well-being of children. Research shows that healthy children perform better in the classroom.

School-Based Health Services (including, but not limited to): Vaccinations & Immunizations Childhood infections Well-Child exams & School sports physicals Chronic illnesses such as asthma, allergies, diabetes, obesity, sickle cell anemia and seizures Accidents & Injuries Attention Deficit Disorder (diagnosis and treatment) Nutrition counseling Vision & Hearing screenings 24-hour on-call physician coverage

West Virginia Family Magazine ď Ź 1-304-472-4528

Community Care of West Virginia is now the largest School-Based Health organization in West Virginia! We now serve sixteen (16) schools in five (5) counties (Braxton, Clay, Harrison, Pocahontas & Upshur). Plans are ongoing to add several additional schools this school year!

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School-Based Health Center Enrollment Packets and consent forms are available on our website at www.communitycarewv.org. We look forward to partnering with you and your community schools in helping to achieve healthier students. We invite you to visit our website to learn more.

www.communitycarewv.org www.communitycarewv.org

November/December 2013