Suburban Parent May 2014

Coppell | Flower Mound | Lewisville | Highland Village | Carrollton | Farmers Branch

Suburban Parent May 2014 | FREE

Award Winning Publication

Treating Mom on Mother’s Day with

Breakfast in Bed! ask...

Get more at suburbanparent.com

the dietitian!

the know it all

Summer Camp

101

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Mary shares...

Remembering What Mothering is Truly About

P

reparing for this month’s Letter from the Editor, I have been reflecting on all the past Mother’s Day I have enjoyed with my family. I can’t truthfully say I remember every gift my children or my husband bought me (although I know my youngest child could), but I can say that I remember most of the gifts my kids made for me, especially those that were created at home, in secret, with whispers behind closed doors. I remember tiny hands coming into my room carrying my breakfast on a platter, with an apology because the orange juice spilt a bit when they hopped in bed with me. These are the gifts mom’s want. Memories of precious moments with their children.

As kids get older, moms want something as simple as a thank you.

We want to hear the words! “Thank you mom for loving us so much.”

“You are so great mom and I love you.” And it would be truly fabulous if followed by words of pure, selfless love; “This is what I am going to do for you today!” Ahhh, music to every mother’s ears (I’m thinking yard work and cleaning the kitchen!)

Yes, this is all great; however

what I ultimately want is for my children to continue to grow in their faith. I want their souls to be prepared for Heaven! This responsibility was given when God handed over his creations to me. This is my vocation. For help with this I can always rely on our Blessed Mother, after all, Jesus gave his mother to us at the foot of the cross before he died. Through time she has been called upon as the Advocate for the People of God. Prayers to Mary for protection and aid have been recorded as early as AD 250. She will also graciously receive those (through prayer) who feel they cannot approach God directly. She loves us as a Mother and she has the ear of her son! Mary’s role in salvation history was planned by God; He wants us to know her.

And, a thank you to my Mom! Thank you for sharing your faith with your children; and thank you for praying to our Blessed Mother for my protection; God knows when I need it! I love you and this is what I am going to do for you today…. SP

Mary Ellen

When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” Then he said to the disciple, “ Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.

John 19:26-27

COVER MODEL McKaila W., 3 yrs.

This cutie loves to play with her brother, Luke (5 yrs.), and his legos! She also enjoys her little brother, Bennett (10 mos).

Singing, wearing dresses and Rapunzel top the list of favorite activities. Miki always remembers her prayers before bed.

Misty Stagnone Photography, www.mistystagnonephotography.com

Suburban Parent magazines Suburban Parent 8344 Sterling Street | Irving, Texas 75063 | 972.887.7779 editor@suburbanparent.com | advertising@suburbanparent.com Suburban Parent and Irving Parent are registered trademarks. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome.

We reserve the right to edit all submissions due to space. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission is prohibited.

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Saying

“ I’m Sorry!”

It happens. We all make mistakes. And sometimes we have to apologize for them. Even to our kids.

And when that happens, don’t sweat it. You’ll earn your child’s respect and set the model for accountability. When offering your apology, do it quickly (but only when you’re ready so your child can process the incident more positively), be sincere (acknowledge her feelings), keep it short (don’t over explain) and move on (accept the forgiveness and don’t dwell on your mistake). How better to teach your kids how to apologize than to let them see how it’s done.

GERM ALERT! When doing your spring cleaning this year, don’t forget to clean those easy to reach places. Doorknobs and light switch plates are some of the dirtiest, yet most over looked places in your home. Because they’re touched often, they should really be at the top of your regular cleaning list. Then move on to the kitchen and bathrooms.

youshouldknow...

Bigger

!

is NOT Better

Change the way you see your food. Research from the Cornell University Food and Brand Lab reports that the average dinner plate has increased in size by 36 percent since 1960. That’s huge. And it makes what you put on your plate look small, making you more likely to put more on your plate than you need.

By simply replacing that oversized tableware with smaller plates and bowls, you’ll keep your portions in check. You’ll eat less without even realizing it.

Camp vs. Cost There’s a lot to consider when making purchases for our children, but there’s plenty of evidence out there to indicate that investing in a life experience (like camp) will be more beneficial in the long run than the new iPhone or electronic you’ve been contemplating.

While people are initially happy with material purchases, satisfaction with these purchases tends to wane over time. However, satisfaction from experiential purchases not only starts high, it gets better over time. And that’s especially true for camp experiences.

Campers don’t just leave camp with great memories; they take with them new friendships, better self-esteem, good leadership skills, and environmental awareness and depending on the camp, stronger spirituality. Now that’s a good investment.

PAY ATTENTION MOM Your attention is limited when multi-tasking!

It may seem counterintuitive to everything we know as a mom. Juggling multiple tasks at one time is just what we do and some of us are really good at it.

But, it can have negative effects on our memory. Studies show that it takes eight seconds to fully commit a piece of information to memory, so paying attention to what you’re doing (or hearing) is important. But what’s most important is really paying attention to what your kids are saying. You’re going to want those memories later.

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momsolvers

questions...

JILL, STAY-AT-HOME MOM OF 2

NATHAN, DAD OF 1

BARB, MOM OF 1 TEENAGER

Q I am a stay at home of two (8 &

Q My child complains that her

Q My husband tells me I must fol-

asks...

asks...

11 years) mom and need to return to work to help with our finances. Any suggestions to make this an easy transition for my kids?

a

You are right to be concerned! Returning to work will be a big change for everyone in the family, even the pets! I would suggest talking with your husband and kids about this change and how things will be different.

Make sure you sound positive though, your kids will be more adaptive if they sense a good change. You need to let them know that they may be able to help with this by participating more with the family’s needs.

For instance, there will be more responsibilities from the youngest to the oldest family member. Also, pick up and drop off for school may change too. So make a list that includes the smaller changes. And most importantly, make sure they know that although you will not be at home as much, being their mom is still the most important job you have!

Good Luck!

teacher is mean to her. Where do I start with this?

a

Well, first of all, don’t be intimidated by inquiring about this with the administration or school director/principal. They would want to know. Keep in mind that you may not be the only one with this issue. Let them know that this is a concern because she says this often (let them know how often). They may want to observe the classroom and teacher to make sure everything is going according to school policy and guidelines. Also, letting the teacher know the child feels this way be help.

NEVA, MOM OF ONE GIRL, SO FAR

a

You are your child’s advocate, so do take this seriously. It may be something simple and your daughter confuses strictness with being mean. You may want to also ask other parents if their child has indicated this as well.

BILL, DAD OF 3

ELLEN, WORKING MOM OF 2

ask... the dietitian!

MARY ELLEN CALDWELL, RDN

a

asks...

low through with the consequences of our child’s bad behavior. I’m a wimp when it comes to my teen saying “I’m sorry!” How do I stay strong with the consequences and recognize their apology.

a

Your husband is right. If the groundwork has been laid, your child knows what to expect. These boundaries and family rules are for their safety and to help them grow into responsible young adults. Do give them (teens) some control over things. Let them help with the rules regarding curfews, dating, and car privileges. Having these boundaries is a way to enforce order into their lives.

SUSAN, MOM OF 2 BOYS

a

Stay strong and be consistent. Not following through sends mixed messages to your child. This gives them the opportunity to play let’s make a deal with your rules and you don’t want that!

BEV, MOM OF 2 TEENS

MY HUSBAND AND I ARE READY TO START OUR FAMILY. WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER FOR NUTRITION TO PREPARE FOR MY PREGNANCY?

You are smart to start your nutrition program before becoming pregnant. This is important! To ensure a healthy pregnancy you should focus on: Eating a balanced diet; regular physical activity and include important vitamins and minerals into your diet plan. Eat a variety of foods, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and low-fat dairy.

Including healthy fats is important too. Try including avocados, nuts, and oils, such as olive, canola and soybean. You should also start looking for the right doctor. They will prescribe a prenatal vitamin and mineral supplement that includes iron and folic acid.

EMAIL YOUR QUESTIONS to editor@suburbanparent.com. subject “questions”. We’ll find answers!

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welove this HANDLEBAR

art!

su b paren t. c ban ur

GO ONL for a cha INE nc to WIN! e om

This totally functional bike tote features graphic artwork by Jason Snyder and Briana Feola! Sturdy loops keep the bag securely fastened to the front of your bike and allows easy access to reach a water bottle or phone.

Has a single shoulder strap so you can tote your tote once you’ve reached your destination! Made in Hendersonville, North Carolina. Find it at UncommonGoods.com. $48.

DOG KNIFE Now you can let your little ones help in the kitchen without worrying about them cutting themselves. This cute little guy, the Kuhn-Rikon Kinderkitchen Dog Knife has serrated “teeth” that will cut through soft foods, but not small fingers. And his ears act as a hand guard to keep the knife from slipping. Too cute!

Find it at everything kitchens.com. $10.

Make a Stand

Game on!

At Play Education! Parents, your Kids play a super-exciting quiz game show, earning pretend cash for each question they answer correctly to win a prize of their choice. After playing the game, you can go online, enter questions your child missed and get an instant online assessment that pinpoints areas where help is needed. Lakeshore even provides free printable activities and product recommendations to help build skills even further. Lakeshore Learning; lakeshorelearning.com. $30.

Make your Tablet, like an iPad or Kindle Fire, feel welcomed in your kitchen with this Belkin Kitchen Stand and Wand for Tablets. This is the greatest thing ever!

If you take your iPad into the kitchen as often as we do, to try new recipes or follow video instructions, you need one of these! The sturdy stand keeps your tablet supported and safe while the oversized stylus keeps the touchscreen clean. Find it at Target. $25.

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STICKY Milestones Sticky Bellies® makes removable, reusable milestone stickers for babies’ and moms’ favorite bellies. The stylish, affordable and mom-friendly line records baby and mom’s monthly growth with its adorable collection of printed stickers. Making documenting life’s milestones cuter and easier, Sticky Bellies® offers options for babies 1-24 months and expectant mothers 12-40 weeks.

For more information on Sticky Bellies®, please visit stickybellies.com. $14.

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BY KIMBERLY MUENCH

My Daughter, Anxiety, and a Second Generation of Tummy Aches!

M

y daughter, Mia has been complaining about tummy aches! This brought back memories of my own issues when I was her age.

Halfway through fourth grade, my parents moved us from our first house in the city to “their dream home in the country.” Guess who had to leave the only home, school and best friend she’d ever known? Yes, that would be me.

This is when anxiety set in.

Initially I was okay with the new school.

Then, for whatever reason, things changed. My mom would practically have to push me onto the bus each morning, tears streaming down my cheeks and my brothers following behind me, wondering what the heck my problem was.

At school, on occasion, I would complain to the teacher of a stomachache and she would send me to the nurse (who would let me hang out in her office for a while). Apparently that worked well enough for me to step up the game to daily visits to the nurse. Some of those days I was even convincing enough to get my mom called and to go home.

Then my mom caught on to my game.

She would bargain with me to go to school by coming at lunch to pick me up and bring me back (I think she knew I had no friends on the playground and she felt bad for me). All this really did was force her to go through my hysterics TWICE a day.

My going home for lunch gig ended pretty quickly because of the emotional toll it took on both of us.

It was just before the end of the school year when I got the brilliant idea to walk off the playground at recess and head home. Can you even imagine my mother’s complete despair when she got the call from school that I’d disappeared during the lunch hour? Her immediate thought was that I had been kidnapped and was miles away already.

It was pretty easy to just disappear off of the playground and although I could go on and on with this story, I will end it here by saying I got in VERY BIG trouble for walking off the playground during recess. Both at school and at home (four words…spanking of a lifetime.)

Ok, now fast forward thirty-five years…

Mia has suddenly become very preoccupied with tummy aches. Which sort of had me stumped? For we haven’t moved in at least ten months now, and she is still attending the same school with the same friends she has had since kindergarten.

Mia was willing to talk with me about it, and although I reassured her often she would be okay, I could tell she continued to be distressed many mornings.

We have received more than a few phone calls from the school’s Nurse Annette in the past several weeks….so often in fact, I decided to introduce myself to her when I was at school the other day.

(Just so she could put a face with a name) I THINK Mia’s anxiety centers around the fact that about a year ago she became ill at school (which is my really nice way of saying she puked her guts out all over the hallway after lunch one afternoon). Since she rarely gets sick, she had no idea what was happening to her. I am sure Mia was embarrassed. But, no harm no foul, she was back at school forty-eight hours later without much more thought about it.

Although I have discussed the likelihood of her getting sick at school again is minimal

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many times, when a child is anxious about something a parent’s logic goes in one ear and out the other.

So, I did what I always do when I have a problem I don’t know how to handle.

I went to Barnes & Noble.

And, sure enough after a few minutes of looking, I found a book that has helped me explain to Mia what worries and anxieties are and how to talk about them and then how to work through them.

I thought I would share the name of the book in case maybe you have a little worry wart running around under your roof as well: What to Do When You Worry Too Much by Dawn Huebner, is an easy-to-read, awesome workbook (for ages 6-12) Mia and I went through this book together over a few nights time.

We have had no calls from Nurse Annette this past week, and I see her making progress in taking charge of her worries. She really enjoyed working through the book and saw herself and her symptoms so often through its pages, that she kept saying, “I think they wrote this book just for me Mom!” I am sure we are nowhere near the end of anxiety issues, but I am glad I found a way to help Mia this time. SP

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the

{ Your Community Calendar }

May 2014

know it all

SP = Advertisers

thur 1

SP Colored Stone Jewelry Sale & Catalog

SP 3rd Annual Motherhood Matters Preg-

Tues-Fri Thru May 10 – 10am-6pm, Sat 11am-4pm. 222 W Hickory St, Downtown Denton 940-383-2699 www.

AmyxFineJewelry.com. See ad in this issue.

for Wellness. Valuable resources for new and expectant moms including pregnancy/baby photography, car seat safety, pre/postnatal massage, infant CPR, baby boutiques and more! Fellowship Dallas, 2nd Floor Atrium, 9330 N Central Expy, Dallas, wingsforwellness.org.

Sponsored by Suburban Parent Magazines.

Auction Event at Amyx Fine Jewelry

SP Soccer Registration at Carrollton Farm-

ers Branch Soccer Association Continues

thru July 17. Register online at www.cfbsoccer.net or call 972-245-9307. See ad in this issue

nancy Expo 10am - 2pm Presented by Wings

Target First Saturdays at the Nasher Sculpture Center 10am - 5pm. Bring the kids and enjoy

ers in grades 1-3 enjoy stories, music, games, crafts and fun. Lewisville Library, 1197 W. Main St, Lewisville, 972.219.3570 www.cityoflewisville.com

free admission and fun family programming on the first Saturday of every month. Nasher Sculpture Center, 2001 Flora St., Dallas, 214.242-5100 www.nashersculpturecenter.org

Lewisville Chess Club Every Thu 7pm - 8pm.

Cottonwood Art Festival May 3-4 10am - 7pm

Prime Time Every Thu 4apm - 5pm Early read-

15201 Dallas Pkwy., Addison, 520.626-4781 http://nutritionandhealthconf.org

tue 6 First Tuesday at the Dallas Museum of Art 11am - 2pm Designed for children ages 5 and under, but all ages are welcome. Enjoy thematic art-making activities, story times, performances and gallery activities.

Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 North Harwood, Dallas, www. dallasmuseumofart.org

Cozby Gamers Every Tue 3:30pm - 5pm. 5th graders and up gather at the Coppell Library for games after-school 3:30-5pm.972-304-3655 William T. Cozby Library, 177 N Heartz Rd, Coppell, www.coppelltx.gov

fri 2

Cottonwood Art Festival is a semi-annual event that features works from the nation’s top visual artists. Whether you’re shopping for art, listening to music, enjoying the outdoors, or making art of your own, Cottonwood has something for your family. Cottonwood Park, 1321 W. Belt Line Rd., Richardson, www.cottonwoodartfestival.com

Free LEGO Mini Build 5 pm - 6:30 pm Children ages 6-15 ONLY can celebrate every month with a free mini build at LEGO stores at Stonebriar Mall & Northpark Center. First Tuesdays beginning at 5pm until all the kits are gone. LEGO stores in Dallas & Frisco, www.lego.com

Craft Guild of Dallas Spring 2014 Show & Sale 10am-10pm; Sat 10am-6pm; Sun 11am-5pm. Spring

Family Time Every Sat 11:15am - 12:15pm Lewisville

wed 7

Barnes & Noble Lewisville, 2325 S Stemmons Fwy, Ste 401, Lewisville, 972.315.7966 barnesandnoble.com

2014 Show and Sale at its Studio and Exhibition space at 5100 Belt Line Road, Suite 400, Dallas, 75254. Craft Guild of Dallas, 5100 Belt Line Rd. Ste. 400, Dallas, 972.490-0303, www.craftguildofdallas.com

sat 3 Dallas Kidney Walk 8am - 12pm Kidney Walk is the nation’s largest walk to fight kidney disease. Held in nearly 100 communities, the event raises awareness and funds lifesaving programs that educate and support patients, their families and those at risk. Lindsley Park, 712 Tenison Memorial Dr., Dallas, 214.351-2393 http:// donate.kidney.org/site/TR/Walk/NorthTexas?pg=entry&fr_id=6700 Scarborough Renaissance Festival Sat & Sun - 10am - 7pm Food Fit for a King: Giant Turkey Legs, Scottish Eggs, Fresh Fruit, Jumbo Fajitas and more! 2511 Farm to Market 66, Waxahachie, http://www.srfestival.com

Carrollton Trails 5K/1-mile Fun Walk 7am 9am. Races include a timed 5K, a 5K Fun Run (untimed), and a 1-mile Fun Walk. Medals will be awarded to the top three finishers in each age category of the 5K competitive run. Creekview High School, 3201 Old Denton Road, Carrollton, cityofcarrollton.com/carrolltontrails5k

Library, 1197 W. Main St, Lewisville, 972.219.3570 www. cityoflewisville.com

The Most Good 5K & Obstacle Race 2 - 6 pm and 7-10 pm The Most Good 5K & Obstacle Race: 125 teams will compete against each other, as they navigate some of the city’s most notable landmarks and destinations in support of The Salvation Army. Sign up now! Enjoy the Festival: 12pm-10pm. Come enjoy some of Dallas’ most exceptional food and local bands. 425 Bedford St., Dallas, http://www.salvationarmydfw.org

Dog Bowl at the Cotton Bowl -9th Annual 1 pm - 5 pm. Free unleashed fun for dog lovers and pooches of all sizes when historic Cotton Bowl field transforms into a dog park complete with splash pools, a pet/owner look-alike contest and more for an all-around tail-wagging time. Admission is free. City of Dallas charges $10 for parking within the gates of Fair Park. Cotton Bowl Stadium at Fair Park, 3750 Cotton Bowl Circle, Dallas, www.fairpark.org

mon 5 11th Annual Nutrition and Health Conference Nutrition & Health: Presented by Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine. InterContinental Dallas,

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Knit Wits Knitting Club 1st & 3rd Wed 5pm - 6pm Farmers Branch Library 972.247.2511 Farmers Branch Library, 13613 Webb Chapel, Farmers Branch, www. farmersbranch.info

Elisabeth Von Trapp at Dallas City Performance Hall Wed - 7:30pm - 10:30pm Join the Daughters for An Evening with Elisabeth von Trapp, granddaughter of the legendary Maria and Baron von Trapp, whose story inspired The Sound of Music. .All proceeds from this benefit will help send veterans of the Normandy invasion back to France for the 70th anniversary memorial event. Dallas City Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St., Dallas, 214.880-0202 www.attpac.org

thur 8 A Tale of Two Quinces Presented by Anita N. Martinez Ballet Folklorico 7:30pm - 9:30pm. Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St., Dallas, 214.880-0202 www. attpac.org

fri 9 Babypalooza Fri - 11:15 am - 12:15 pm. Parents, caregivers, or grandparents and their babies ages 6-24 mos

kidzandteendental.com

5/31/14.

5/31/14.

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the know it all join others in experiencing a variety of sensory play areas including building boxes, art activities, shakers and much more! Flower Mound Public Library, 3030 Broadmoor Lane, Flower Mound, 972-874-6200 fmlibrary.net

Master Class at International Conservatory of Performing Arts (ICPA) 7:30pm - 9pm Esteemed bassist Chuck Rainey will be teaching a Master Class. Space is limited, call today! $10 for ICPA students, $20 for General Public International Conservatory of Performing Arts, 3321 Premier Dr., Plano, 972.881-1915 www.imusicconservatory.com

sat 10 Buffalo Boogie 7am - 10am Visit the Friends of the Fort Worth Nature website for more information on how to register and get involved with Buffalo Boogie 2014. http:// www.naturecenterfriends.org/buffalo.php. Onsite registration at 7 a.m., starting gun at 8:30 a.m. Fort Worth Nature Center, 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd., Fort Worth, 817-392-7410 5K Family and Dog Friendly Walk at Fair Park 7am - 12pm FREE family (and dog) friendly 5k walk on the beautiful grounds of Fair Park. Fundraising is encouraged, but not required. Registration begins @ 7am Walks starts @9am Dogs are welcome.

Fair Park-Bandshell, 1465 First Ave., Dallas, 214.341-7133 http://www.namidallas.org Paw Prints Dallas Zoo Art Fair May 10-11, 9am - 5pm Mother’s Day weekend is about to get wild with the Paw Prints Art Show at the Dallas Zoo. Stroll among tents filled with art and crafts, including paintings, sculpture, ceramics, wood carvings, photography, and hand-crafted jewelry while viewing wildlife in naturalistic settings. Dine at restaurants and food carts throughout the park. Dallas Zoo, 650 S. RL Thornton Freeway, Dallas, 469.554-7500 www.dallaszoo.com

Dallas Pet Expo 10am - 6pm Play, Shop, Learn, Adopt! Free Parking & Admission.

Agility Demos, Pet Talent Contest, Pet Costume Contest, Pet/Owner Musical Chairs. Dallas Market Center, 2100 N. Stemmons Frwy., Dallas, 800.977-3609 www.dallaspetexpo.com Bancroft Family Concert at the Dallas Museum of Art 3pm - 4pm Fine Arts Chamber Players invites you to a FREE Bancroft Family Concert featuring pianist Evan Ritter at the Dallas Museum of Art’s Horchow Auditorium. 1717 North Harwood St., Dallas, 214.520-2219 http://www.fineartschamberplayers.org

North Texas Dieselpunks 2pm - 3pm. Dieselpunk blends knowledge of the 1920s through the early 1950s with today. The goal of dieselpunk is to create something unexpected and new by merging the elements of the past with today’s technology and attitude. 972.247-2511 Farmers Branch Library, 13613 Webb Chapel Rd, Farmers Branch, www.farmersbranchtx.gov

sun 11 Spring Trail Exploration Hike Series 1:30pm - 3:30pm Join us for a series of guided hikes this spring to explore our trail system and experience the wonders found in hidden corners of the Nature Center. The trail system is carefully planned to provide access to a spectrum of native landscapes while conserving plenty of undisturbed areas for wildlife. FREE (with paid admission). Fort Worth Nature Center, 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd., Fort Worth, (817) 392-7410

Anthony and Cleopatra an Unabridged Staged Reading 3pm - 5pm Antony and Cleopatra tells of the scandalous affair between the Roman general Antony and the ambitious Egyptian queen Cleopatra. Their passion for each other leads to their ultimate downfall and deaths. Student tickets for The Complete Works of William Shakespeare are now available completely free of charge!. Subject to availability. Two tickets per student. ID.Tickets are only $10. Hamon Hall, 2403 Flora St., Dallas, 214.8800202 www.attpac.org

mon 12 MOPs (Mothers of Preschoolers) First Baptist Carrollton Meeting Childcare available by reservation. 2nd & 4th Mon during school year 972.939.6503 mops@fbcc.org fbcc.org/mops First Baptist Church, 2400 North Josey Lane, Carrollton, mops@fbcc.org fbcc.org/mops

Greater Lewisville Early Childhood PTA General Meeting 9:30am 11:30am. GLECPTA is a support organization for moms of young children with monthly meetings, playgroups, and more. Childcare provided. Usually 2nd Mon Sep-May. Trietsch Memorial United Methodist Church, 6101 Morriss Road, Flower Mound www. glecpta.org

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Robin Kelm Photography

On-Location Photographer Serving Flower Mound/Lewisville/Highland Village, and DFW, TX areas

robin@robinkelmphotography.com

(940) 453-1362

www.robinkelmphotography.com

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the know it all tue 13 FB Writers Organization 10am - 12pm. This group is for writers who want to share and discuss their work with other local scribes. Poetry, non-fiction, and all genre interests are invited. Beginners are welcome. Adult (18 & over) Every Tues.Farmers Branch Library, 13613 Webb Chapel, Farmers Branch, www.farmersbranch.info Brown Bag Book Club 12pm - 1pm Call the Adult Services Desk at 972.219.3779 for the current month’s title. Lewisville Library, 1197 W. Main St, Lewisville, www.cityoflewisville.com

Firecracker Book Club 4pm - 5pm. Book Discussions and related activities for children in grades 4-5. Reservations required on Groups of eight or more. Flower Mound Public Library, 3030 Broadmoor Lane, Flower Mound, 972-874-6200 fmlibrary.net Readers Are Leaders 7pm - 8pm 7 to 8 pm Join us once a month to celebrate the gift of literacy as various city officials inspire our youth by reading aloud their favorite library books. All ages are welcome. Farmers Branch Library, 13613 Webb Chapel Rd, Farmers Branch, 972.247-2511 farmersbranchtx.gov

wed 14 Full Moon Paddle 8pm - 10:30pm. Come and join us for a different type of Canoe Tour in the evening hours. This program will present new opportunities, like hearing beavers slap the water with their tails and seeing deer and raccoons. Canoes, paddles and lifejackets are provided. Children must be 5 years or older. Pre-registration required. $20 (includes admission fee) /MEMBERS $15. Fort Worth Nature Center, 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd., Fort Worth, (817) 392-7410

Poetry Reading 1pm - 3pm. Come to this monthly poetry group designed for those who enjoy reading and appreciating poetry. All are welcome. Farmers Branch Library, 13613 Webb Chapel Rd, Farmers Branch, 972.247-2511 farmersbranchtx.gov

thur 15 TIG/Teen Interest Group 6:30pm - 7:30pm. Students in middle and high school hang out, talk about books, play games and eat food. Coppell Library, 177 N Heartz Road, Coppell, 972.304.3658 coppelltx.gov

Your Community Storytimes Coppell Public Library 177 N. Heartz Rd., 972-304-3655 All story times are free with registration at front desk. Mon - Baby & Me 11am, infants Tues - Family Story Time 7pm, all ages Fourth Fri Only – Fourth Fri Spanish Storytime 10:30am, all ages, Second Sat Only - Second Sat, Story Time 11am, all ages

Carrollton - Hebron & Josey Branch 4220 N. Josey Ln. at Hebron Pkwy. 972466-4800 Mon - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 1-3; Mother Goose 11am, ages 0-1. Wed - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 1-3; Story Time 11am, ages 3-6. Thur - Evening Story Time 7pm, ages 3-6

Carrollton - Josey Ranch Lake Branch 1700 Keller Springs Rd., 972-466-4800 Mon - Toddler Time 10:45am, ages 1-3 Tues - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 1-3; Story Time 11am, ages 3-6

Farmers Branch Manske Library 13613 Webb Chapel, 972-247-2511 Mon - Baby Bounce 11:15am, ages 0-1 Tues - Family Story Time 7pm, all ages

Wed - Preschool Story Time 10:15am, ages 3-6 Thurs - Preschool Story Time 10:15am, ages 3-6

Flower Mound Public Library 3030 Broadmoor Ln., 972-874-6200 Free, but pre-registration is required for Mother Goose sessions. Mon - Preschool Story Time 10am & 2pm, ages 3-6; Mother Goose 11:15am, ages 18-36 mo. Tue Preschool Story Time 10am & 2pm, ages 3-6; Mother Goose 11:15am, ages 18-36 mo.

Wed - Toddler Time 10 & 11am, ages 18-36 mo; Family Story Time (3rd Wed., SeptJuly) 7pm, all ages. Thur - Toddler Time 10 &11am, ages 18-36 mo

Lewisville Public Library 1197 W. Main., 972-219-3570 Mon - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages. 3-6; Mother Goose 1:30pm, ages 0-15 mo Tue - Preschool Story Time 4 & 7pm, ages 3-6; Toddler Time 10:30 & 11am, ages 15-36 mo Wed - Toddler Time 10:30am, ages 15- 36 mo; Mother Goose 1:30pm, ages 0-15 mo Thur - Toddler Time 10:30am, ages 15-36 mo; Mother Goose 1:30pm, ages 0-15 mo

All Storytimes are FREE. Listed are the regularly scheduled storytimes. Call to confirm as schedules are subject to change.

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www.dancereflections.net dancereflections@grandecom.net

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the know it all fri 16 Addison Fork & Cork 2014 Designed for the epicurious, this intimate two-day event brings together celebrated chefs, craft breweries, wineries and spirit-makers—tempting palettes with more culinary style. To purchase tickets and to find more information regarding Fork & Cork 2014 visit the newly launched website at www. addisonforkandcork.

Dallas Black Dance Theatre 7:30pm - 9:30pm The Dance Community joins in the celebration of Ann William’s legacy with two Gala evenings of spectacular performances and receptions at the 2000 seat Winspear Opera House. Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St., Dallas, 214.880-0202 www.attpac.org

sat 17 SPCA of Texas’ Strut Your Mutt 9th Annual 8am - 1pm. North Texas’ largest dog walk fundraiser! Please remember that registration starts at 7 a.m. It’s all to raise $ for the SPCA of Texas’ life-saving rescue and shelter programs. You can make a difference! Tower Building in Fair Park, 3809 Grand Ave., Dallas, 214.461-1830 www. strutyourmutt.info

Bach to Broadway at ICPA May 17 - 18. 4:30pm - 6:30pm: This three-act performance will showcase the outstanding talents of our music, theatre, and dance students! There will be opportunities to place bids in our silent auction, which will have plenty of fantastic options for children and adults alike! Tickets are $10 each. Call today to reserve your tickets! Silent Auction winners will be announced after the show May 18th, at 6:30 pm. Uptown Theater, 120 E. Main St., Grand Prairie

sun 18 Land or River 2:30 pm - 1:30 pm. Bring the kids out and learn about the difference between land and aquatic turtles. This will give you an up close look at the different species of turtles found along the Trinity River and throughout the forest. FREE (with paid admission). Fort Worth Nature Center, 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd., Fort Worth, (817) 392-7410

mon 19 Teen Role Playing 6pm - 7pm New players may join at any time. All materials provided. Lewisville Library, 1197 W. Main St, Lewisville, 972.219.3570 www.cityoflewisville.com

tue 20

Just outside Dinosaur Valley State Park

over 150 life-size

dinosaurs!

1058 Park Road 59 Glen Rose, TX 76043 (254) 898-1526

La Leche League of Lewisville 10am - 11am. All breastfeeding mothers (and their babies) and mothers-to-be interested in breastfeeding are welcome. First Presbyterian Church of Lewisville, 1002 Fox, Lewisville, texaslll.org/group/Lewisville

wed 21 Rosemeade Recreation Center Teen Council 6:30pm - 7:30pm Teens ages 13-17 will discuss how to put their stamp on the Center. Pizza & drinks provided. grant. carver@cityofcarrollton.com 972.466-9812 Rosemeade Recreation Center, 1330 Rosemeade Parkway, Carrollton, cityofcarrollton.com

thur 22 Evening Stroll With a Naturalist 8pm - 9:30pm Come and enjoy an evening

$2 off per adult

stroll on the Nature Center’s trails as we explore nature before nightfall. $10 (includes admission fee) MEMBERS $5. Fort Worth Nature Center, 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd., Fort Worth, 817.392-7410

CSP

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Upload your Birthday Kids picture at suburbanparent.com the Please submit by the 10th of their month prior to the month of print birthday to be included in our os. edition. No copyrighted phot

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ZEKEY

7 Years Old April 7

KENNEDY

5 Year Old May 25

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the know it all sun 25 Univision Radio Festival de Mayo 11am - 7pm Free event with live entertainment, food vendors & more! Fair Park Court of Honor (Near Esplanade), 1121 1st Ave., Dallas, 214.525-0429 www.fairpark.org

tue 27 Tabletop Game Night 6pm - 8:30pm Join us for board and card games. Learn a new game or play on old favorite. Choose from the library’s game collection or bring one from home to share! Flower Mound Public Library, 3030 Broadmoor Lane, Flower Mound, 972-874-6200 fmlibrary.net

wed 28 League of Extraordinary Teens 6:30pm - 7:30pm. Make a difference by working with staff and other teens to make the Library your kind of place. Plan events, suggest materials and hang out. Carrollton Public Library at Josey Ranch Lake, 1700 Keller Springs Rd, Carrollton, www.cityofcarrollton.com

sat 31 Taste of Irving 2pm - 6pm Sample selections from the menus of Irving restaurants, while enjoying live music, children’s rides and activities, and a marketplace featuring unique and handmade items. Set in Cimarron Park and adjoining Landry Elementary School, parking and admission are free. Cimarron Park, 100 Cimarron Trail, Irving, Call (972) 721-2501

Nature En Espanol 1pm - 2:30pm Join a bilingual naturalist on the Refuge trails in search of insects. Whether Spanish is your first or second language, these hikes provide a new opportunity to learn more about the flora and fauna found on the Refuge. FREE (with paid admission). Fort Worth Nature Center, 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd., Fort Worth, (817) 392-7410 SP

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an ou C ow Y r u Ask H in Yo Lock to p u r s fo Rate ths!

Mon

36

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Treating Mom on Mother’s Day with

Breakfast in Bed!

the

FpUagNe

Do you have eggs, milk and bread? Then you can make this Fancy (but simple) French Bread Breakfast Dish.

What yo

: u’ll need

When your mother asks, “Do you want a piece of advice?” it’s a mere formality. It doesn’t matter if you answer yes or no. You’re going to get it anyway.”

eggs - 4 large r on suga o p s - 1 tea lt f sa - Dash o ilk te bread m p u c 1 - ur favori eat) es of yo c li s o 12 h le Wh - 10 to nch or W re F , n a , Itali (White r e rite jam tt - Bu our favo rup or y y s le p a - M erves 4 Recipe s

— Erma Bombeck

What you’ll do:

1

In a wide bowl or pie plate beat eggs with a fork (lightly). Stir in the sugar, salt and milk (for added flavor you can add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract)

2

Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.

Heat a skillet or griddle coated with a layer of butter or margarine.

3

Working in batches, place bread slices, one at a time, into the egg

mixture letting them soak for a few seconds. Carefully turn to coat the other side.

4

Transfer soaked bread slices to the griddle or skillet, heating slowly until bottom is golden brown.

Turn and brown the other side. Transfer all to a baking sheet and bake until puffed, 8 to 10 minutes. Serve hot with butter and syrup or jam.

GOTTA LOVE ‘EM

LOL with James Estes!

WHAT DID THE DIGITAL CLOCK SAY TO ITS MOTHER? “Look Ma! No hands!

WHAT DID THE MOTHER BROOM SAY TO HER BABY BROOM? “It’s time to go to sweep!”

WHAT DID THE MOTHER ROPE SAY TO HER CHILD? “Don’t be knotty!”

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For my son’s 5th birthday he asked for a Nowitzki sports shirt. My daughter found the perfect one while we were shopping that said Nowitzki on the back, and was emblazoned “DALLAS 41” on the front. He loved it and put it on immediately.

Checking himself out in the mirror he misread the words reflected backwards in the mirror which immediately changed the shirt from cool to annoying. He stopped and said very disappointedly, “Sallad 14… You got me a shirt about SALAD?!!

School’s Out & Summer’s In!

June 2 – August 15 Time to make friends, learn new skills and have FUN this summer!

www.greenhill.org/summer

Select from a range of one- or twoweek academic enrichment, artistic, sports or fun-filled camps. For boys and girls, ages 3-18.

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DallasAreaHomes.net To Advertise in Suburban Parent, Call 972.887.7779 | Suburban Parent | 25

Making the Most of Summer

BY GAYLA GRACE

S

ummer camp offers all kinds of fun and character-building experiences for kids of any age. Whether you’re looking for a few hours of entertainment or weeks of intentional skill-building for your child, you can find it at camp.

Age 0-5 Day camps offer the perfect opportunity for young kids to experience time away from Mom and explore new activities. Camp for preschool children focuses on free play, sharing with others, group games, (inside and outside) and simple arts and crafts. If you’re sending your child to camp for the first time, make sure the schedule matches her personality and routine to prevent a stressful experience. Does there need to be naptime? Should your child be potty trained to attend? Would your child adjust more easily by starting with a 1/2 day camp instead of full day? Are there appropriate breaks for snacks and changes in activity?

It’s important to find out what the counselor to camper ratio is for children this age. You want to ensure your child will be adequately cared for with a friendly, well-staffed team.

You also want to determine if the counselors are trained to help with issues common to preschoolers including separation anxiety, potty training, and temper tantrums.

The best place to find camps for young children is through day cares, churches, nursery schools, and local elementary schools. Specialty camps also abound through gymnastic centers, music schools, and sporting centers. Consider your child’s interests and find a camp that fits to give your preschool child a chance to make new friends and explore new experiences.

Age 6-11 Elementary-age children thrive at camp, whether it’s day camp or stay-away camp. It’s the perfect solution to sibling squabbles and long summer days. But it pays to do your research and find the right fit for your child.

Camps for this age range from sports camps to music camps to academic camps to church camps. Don’t let the variety intimidate you as you research; start with the interests of your child and ask friends and neighbors to give opinions on camps their kids have attended.

At this age, our kids have had the most fun at away camps that gave them the opportunity to try activities not available at home such as

zip lining, archery, rock wall climbing, in addition to swimming, arts and crafts, and campfire sing-alongs with friends. Kids gain independence as they make decisions and meet new friends outside of the comforts of home. They gain self-confidence in trying new activities.

And they learn to appreciate the beauty of nature as they unplug from technology. Although they may experience periods of homesickness, they learn to forge through their feelings with caring camp counselors and new friends.

Specialty camps close to home also help kids explore new hobbies or create opportunities for parents and kids to enjoy camp together. A mother-daughter sewing camp or father-son golfing camp allows great bonding time while developing a skill enjoyed by both.

If your child has never experienced camp, start with a day camp or send a friend along for an away camp. It’s important that their first camp experience be a good one. If you find it wasn’t a perfect fit, try a different one next year. But don’t give up on the beauty and benefits of camp for elementary-age children.

Summer Camp

1 1

trouble unless parents intentionally seek out creative options.

Junior high and high schools provide information for local camps worth investigating as the school year draws to a close. It’s also easy to scour the internet for camps that match your child’s interests. Some camps provide certification such as lifeguard training or first aid certification that can enable your youth to successfully find a job upon completion.

Encourage your youth to research camps with you to find one that fits

Age 12-15 Tweens and teens have better focus than younger children and benefit from camps that more closely match their interests and personalities. Sports and music camps are great for this age and help kids advance athletic skills and enhance musical talent. Academic camps offer youth advanced-learning opportunities in subjects they might want to explore for longterm focus. And church camps offer character-building and self-awareness experiences not learned in school.

Camps provide a safe place for teens and tweens to hang out while parents work during summer break. Not yet able to drive or find a summer job, kids this age too often allow technology to rule or walk into unsupervised

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When kids attend camp, they develop resilience and flexibility that benefits them later in life. An article in Psychology Today, “Creating Advantage in College,” by Steve Baskin parallels the experiences of summer camp and the adjustment of college. He cites that kids work through similar adjustments at camp and college such as, “Being away from home and your traditional support system (family, friends, familiar places), and dealing with large amounts of uncertainty (what will classes require, how will I fit in socially, can I deal with this new roommate).” Baskin proposes that kids who find success working through these challenges at camp adjust easier when presented with the transition to college.

Summer camp offers unique experiences and character-building opportunities for every child. Whether your child is 2 or 15, camp is the perfect place to find adventure and make lifelong memories in the process. Don’t delay - find a camp your child will enjoy today! SP

Bio: Gayla Grace, freelance writer and mom to five, has sent her kids to camp every summer and continues to find new camps for her one child still at home to enjoy.

+

activity R E S O U R C E S

Adventure Kids Playcare

Lil Sluggers

www.adventurekidsplaycare.com

972-509-5958, www.lilsluggersdallas.com

Amigos Spanish Preschool

NRH2O

214-469-1555 www.amigosspanishpreschool.com

817-427-6500, www.nrh2o.com

Black Mustang Ranch

214-295-8719, www.ntafm.com

817-915-8455 www.blackmustangranch.com

Brookhaven College 972-860-4700, bhinfo@dcccd.edu

Camp Invention www.CAMPINVENTION.org

City of Coppell 972-462-5100, www.coppelltx.gov

Destination Science, 1-888-909-2822 www.destinationscience.org

Dinosaur World 254-898-1526, www.dinosaurworld.com

Early Care and Education 972-200-0504 www.earlycareandeducation.com

Greenhill School

NTA TaeKwondo Flower Mound Oak Crest Private School 214-483-5400, www.OakCrestSchool.org

Prince of Peace 972-447-0532, www.pops.org

Riverside Butterfly School 972-745-0372

SafeSplash Swim School 214-422-4287 www.safeplash.com

SeaLife Aquarium www.visitsealife.com/grapevine

Selwyn College Preparatory 940-382-6771 ext 130 www.selwynschool.com

The Septien Group

www.greenhill.org/summer

972-392-2810 www.theseptiengroup.com

Hill School

Soccertots

817-310-0876, www.hillschool.org

972-509-5958 www.soccertotsdallas.com

Holy Family of Nazareth Catholic School 972-255-0205, www.hfns.com

Kiddin Around

Temple Christian Academy 972-874-8700 www.templechristian.com

www.kiddinaroundplaycare.com

Temple Christian Learning Center

The Kids Dance Company

972-874-8700 www.templebc.org/TCLC.html

www.kidsdancecompany.com 972-612-7000

Lakeland Christian Academy 972-219-3939 www.lakelandchristianacademy.org

Lakeland Christian Academy Preschool, 972-219-3939 www.LakelandChristianAcademy.org

UTD Chess Camp 972-883-4899 www.utdallas.edu/chess

WinKids Sports and Learning Center www.winkids.net

WTF Taekwondo 214-488-5717

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Same Day Appointments Available • Most Insurance Accepted

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10 Ways to Make Your Mother Feel Special

T

s give selflessly so that we may child is never-ending. Our mother’ and her mot a neen betw d bon ue he uniq mother’s love is everlasting and unco mold us; nurture and scold us. A ? care we h muc how an wom prosper and grow. They polish and zing we show such a dynamic and ama can How ! sing bles a are hers ditional. Mot s to make your mother feel special: All Pro Dad wants to share 10 way

1. Respect

..every single thing she Everything Mom has done for you. rves your respect. She has sacrificed on your behalf — dese st dignity and honor. utmo the has earned it! Treat her with

2. The Letter

. Describe to her the Write your mom a handwritten note ial. Thank her for being such reasons why you feel she is spec will mean the world to her.

It nt. a wonderful person and pare

3. Scrapbook

e of your favorite memoPut together a scrapbook of som o boxes and albums. phot old e thos in deep ries of her. Dig taking a trip down love s Get creative and make it fun. Mom memory lane.

s 4. Projects and Chorethat needs to be done—a

Your mom always has something leaky roof that needs to shelving unit to be constructed; a ng. Just like when you cutti s be repaired; grass that need things to do. Help her out, of list long a ’s there e, lived at hom . just like she helped you as a child

ed 5. Donate to Moms in Ne tion to an organiza-

On your mom’s behalf, make a dona trouble. You won’t have tion serving the needs of moms in nancy centers, battered any trouble finding one; teen preg welfare. Talk to your mom on s mom women’s shelters, single would most like to help. she one h whic out ind f about it and

ent 6. Public Acknowledgm you, she’s not gonna ask

Moms love to be bragged on. Mind hear you talking nicely you to brag, but she sure loves to mom credit for the your give to t poin a about her. Make her among her friends and person you have become. Honor e. prais of s peers with your kind word

7. Manners

manners; “Don’t talk She worked hard to teach you good in on your lap.” “Speak with your mouth full.” “Put your napk eone else is talking.” som n whe en clearly and directly.” “List sure you put Make n. lesso the ed learn ve Show her you’ are with her you n whe those good manners into practice fied by a job satis feel will She . not) re (and even when you’ well done.

d 8. Make Her Feel Neede begin to feel that she

As your mom gets older, she may . Of course, that’s not true, doesn’t have anything left to offer specially mom. Make ed...e need be to ts wan but everyone still need her. Include ly sure she knows you and your fami feel welcome. her e mak ys her in your life, and alwa

9. Loyalty

can give your One of the most precious gifts you lty. Blood runs loya ned estio unqu your is her mot r forget where thicker than water as they say. Neve . you came from

se 10. Flowers—Just Becau and birthdays. Well,

We all send flowers on Mother’s Day e her feel really special, maybe not, but if you want to mak Surprise her with a visit, all. at on reas no for give her flowers “I love you and I was and a personal delivery—just to say, y, but she will be corn d soun t thinking about you.” It migh most. the n mea life in s thing le simp thrilled. The rwhere dads in any stage of fathe Reprinted with permission. This is rs can Fathe ting. paren their in aid to hood can find helpful resources of our All Pro Dads chapters. also sign up to start or attend one

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I’ve Learned a Lot

BY KEN SWARNER

I

was interviewed on a TV talk show recently to promote my new book, and I made the mistake of bringing my wife. For years I have had a one-sided conversation with my readers in a venue where my wife has had no opportunity to tell her side of the story. It’s been great!

Unfortunately, during the taping of the show, they placed my wife and kids in the front row of the studio audience. The first half of the program went great. I discussed with the host my views on parenting and my experiences as a father. After the commercial break, however, the mood changed. Without warning, the host asked me ‘who is the heavy in the family?’ That was an easy question - I’ve always considered myself the disciplinarian, and I explained that to the host.

“It’s definitely me,” I exclaimed.

From the audience, my wife shook her head in disgust. The host latched on to this and turned towards her. “Allison,” he said. “You don’t appear to agree.” She rolled her eyes. “I’m the disciplinarian,” she contended. “Really?” the host said smiling. “Yes,” my wife continued. She pointed to the kids. “I’m raising them and...(pointing to me)...him.” Oh, the audience loved that! Coffee almost came out the host’s nose he laughed so hard.

I bring this up because it’s Mother’s Day this week and I’ve been giving what my wife said a lot of thought. She’s always contended that if I hadn’t married her I’d be living in an apartment knee deep in fast food wrappers and dirty laundry. I suppose there’s some truth to that. Maybe she is raising me? Maybe wives do that for husbands everywhere. After all, why else do we give our wives Mother’s Day gifts? So I sat down this

week and compiled a list of “life lessons” I’ve learned from my wife. When I got to item 100, I realized it’s true, she is raising me.

In the interest of sharing, the following are my top ten favorite things I’ve learned from my wife: 1. The clothes hamper won’t bite me...and apparently it won’t kill me to use it either.

2. My opinion always counts...as long as it’s the same as hers.

3. Saving $20 on a $200 dress is better than paying full price on a $100 dress.

4. A monthly budget is always a rough estimate.

5. A honey-do list does eventually end...when you die.

6. When in doubt...eat out.

7. It’s okay for men to cry (especially helpful after seeing the bill from one of those Scentsy or Mary Kay or Stella & Dot at-home parties.)

8. Even if 73 diet plans haven’t worked, it’s still worth paying for a 74th.

9. There’s not a plant in the yard that can’t be moved...twice.

10. Giving the children Twinkies for dinner is not right...without slipping them each $5 not to tell their mom.

Yep I’d be one lost puppy without my wife... Happy Mother’s Day! SP

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