Idaho family 11web 2016

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NOVEMBER 2016

Gender neutral games Fun for boys and girls

MAGAZINE

Erma Bombeck

A brief look back

Lazy

child myth

All kids want to please

Vegetarian Thanksgiving Mom-to-be smells turkey

Holiday

décor

See inside for our…

Birthday Parties Section

Why decorating matters Want your child’s photo on next month’s cover?

Check inside for details!

IDAHO

Contents November 2016

MAGAZINE

Features Columns Lazy child myth:

4 6

Irene’s Insights: The value of decorating

Holiday guidelines:

4 8

Manic Mothering: Pushup challenge

Take another look Include ‘grace’

Vegetarian Thanksgiving:

17 19 moMENts: Life’s trials

Mom-to-be smells turkey

Teach gratitude: Model kindness

18

20 KIDS FIRST!: Humpback Whales

Editor Gaye Bunderson gayeb@sterlingmedialtd.com 208-639-8301 Sales & Marketing Kimberly McMullen kim.bcliving@gmail.com 208-854-8345

Contributors

Crafts on a Dime: Company-ready house

In Each Edition 3

Family Events 10-15 Calendar: Family friendly activities & events for November & early December!

Sterling Media Ltd.

Glen Bruderer

Departments

Editor’s Intro Remembering Erma Bombeck

Publisher

Graphic Design

Birthday Parties 22-23

9

Volume 4, Number 11

16 Artkin’s In the Zone: Cupcake

November 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

Barbara Balkin, Daniel Bobinski, Patrick Hempfing, Beth Markley, Sandy Spurgeon McDaniel, Robert Rhodes, Diane Louise Smith, Samantha Stillman & Irene Woodworth Distribution Specialists Idaho Distribution Services

Idaho Family Magazine, published monthly

by Sterling Media Ltd., is committed to providing readers with informative and entertaining information to help them in maintaining healthy families and positive lifestyles. It is distributed throughout the valley as a free publication. Idaho Family Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements or opinions expressed by editorial contributors or advertisers. The acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. Idaho Family Magazine does not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without express written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. Idaho Family Magazine reserves the right to edit or reject all materials submitted.

All rights reserved. Copyright 2016 by Sterling Media Ltd.

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EDITOR’S Intro

Looking back on the life of Erma Bombeck

E

rma Bombeck was the ultimate un-Martha Stewart. She created a successful writing career telling stories about being a less-than-stellar homemaker. Dust in the house didn’t ruffle her feather duster, and a lopsided cake fresh from the oven didn’t ruin her day. Or at least that’s how she presented herself in her work.

Erma Louise Fiste was born on February 21, 1927, which would have made her a whopping 89 years old now. If she hadn’t died from kidney disease in 1996, she may still be writing feisty stories about being a lessthan-perfect great-granny who loved the little ones but nonetheless put them into unmade beds at night with big sloppy milk mustaches on their cherubic faces.

Like everyone else, Bombeck experienced ups and downs along her life’s path, but she seemed determined to face them outwardly with humor. Some of her many quotes include: • “Onion rings in the car cushions do not improve with time.”

• “Housework, if you do it right, will kill you.”

• “My kids always perceived the bathroom as a place where you wait it out until all the groceries are unloaded from the car.”

• “The only reason I would take up jogging is so that I could hear heavy breathing again.”

• “Never have more children than you have car windows.”

In all throughout her decades-long career, Erma Bombeck (wife of Bill Bombeck and mother of Betsy, Andrew and Matthew) published 15 books and wrote more than 4,000 newspaper columns that were read by 30 million people in North America. Her books were given catchy names like, “If Life Is a Bowl of Cherries, What Am I Doing in the Pits?” Her column was called, “At Wit’s End.” She wasn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Macho male writers were notably not interested in what a stay-at-home mom had to say about housework and child-rearing. But a lot of females took great comfort in her comedic view of so-called women’s work.

Bombeck was also a friendly feminist. I use the word “friendly” because the single word “feminist” can provoke a measure of hostility in some people, who think it entails only strident and radical views, as well as tacit approval of some fairly hot-button issues such as abortion. In the ‘70s, Bombeck was involved with the Presidential Advisory Committee for Women. The committee sought implementation of the Equal Rights Amendment, which addressed unequal treatment of women in certain aspects of American society. The goal was to have the amendment added to the U.S. Constitution — a very complicated process.

The ERA was challenged by the extreme conservatism of the late Phyllis Schlafly, who frightened people by saying, among other things, that the ERA would lead to having America’s daughters drafted and sent off to war. She also contended that women enjoyed certain “special privileges” that would be threatened if the ERA passed. (As I remember, those special privileges included having a man hold a door for you...while you walked into an office building where you worked for lower pay.)

While there were women who agreed with Schlafly’s views, many women agreed with Bombeck’s, and the Homemakers’ Equal Rights Association was formed. Nonetheless, Schlafly’s scare tactics won the day, and the ERA is now just a scrap of history.

Bombeck took some heat and a few professional hits for her stance (her books were pulled from some bookstores), but personally I admire her for taking a stand and sticking to it.

If you google “Who is the new Erma Bombeck?”, you really don’t get a definitive answer. Maybe that’s because for her time, especially in the early ‘60s, Bombeck was one of a kind. Nowadays, with the abundance of parent bloggers who detail the rigors of homemaking and child-rearing with playful self-deprecation, there is still no one as groundbreaking as Bombeck. (And maybe many modern bloggers are simply following her style, whether they know it or not.)

A devout Catholic, Bombeck once traveled to Calcutta to work with Mother Teresa. Another of her quotes is this: “Know the difference between success and fame. Success is Mother Teresa. Fame is Madonna.”

Her writings didn’t always entail quips about suburban life. She could occasionally be quite serious. For instance: “At the end of my life, I hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and I could say, ‘I used everything you gave me.’”

Erma Bombeck may be an irreplaceable talent who provided us with a funny and loving view of an American wife, an American mother, and the uniquely American family.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone — and if the turkey comes out of the oven just slightly overcooked, do an Erma and laugh at yourself and the whole crazy thing that is this amazing and wonderful life.

Kidding Around

Idaho Family Magazine is seeking to start an ongoing feature we’re calling Kidding Around. We’re borrowing on Art Linkletter’s “Kids Say the Darndest Things” concept. We’d love to have you send us stories on the funny things your children, grandchildren or other youngsters say. The following is an example: A former co-worker of mine took his family, including his 5-year-old son, to church. When the family got to the church, they all scooted into a pew, with the 5-year-old going first. The little boy found himself seated next to an elderly lady, and the two of them struck up a conversation. The woman asked him, “How old are you?”, and the boy answered, “Five.” In return, he then asked the woman, “How old are you?,” and she replied, “I’m 84.”

According to my co-worker, his son then asked the woman in all seriousness, with wide eyes and an astonished look, “Starting from ONE?!”

Send your Kidding Around stories to me at gayeb@sterlingmedialtd. com. This is going to be fun, so don’t forget to participate and don’t be shy. n ID AH O

Gaye Bunderson, Editor

Children’s Photos Wanted Idaho Family Magazine would love to put your child or children on our cover. We are especially looking for photos of children who are engaged in activities. All photos should be high quality, sharp and clear, and high resolution of around 300 dpi. Color photos are preferred, and all photos need to be vertical not horizontal. Please identify the children in the photos, the children’s ages, and what Treasure Valley community they reside in. (If chosen for the cover, their last names will not be used.) Send the photos to gayeb@sterlingmedialtd.com.

FREE

NOVEMBER

GEndER neutral ga mes

MAGAZ

Fun for boys and girls

INE

ERma BomBEck A brief look back

lazy

child my th

All kids wan t to please

VEGEtaRi an thanksgi ving e smel

Mom-to-b

See inside

ls turkey

Holiday

for our…

Birthday

décor

Parties Section

Why deco ratin Want your

child’s photo

g matters

on next month

Check inside

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

2016

’s cover?

for details!

Idaho Family Magazine | November 2016

Lazy child myth

Indolence not the real culprit behind failure your child’s struggles. A lack of effort, failing grades, uncompleted homework assignments (all of which drive you crazy) then become symptoms of something larger aziness is in the mind of the accusgoing on — a root cause, if you will. Ask any teacher er...when you say someone is lazy, and they will give you many examples of grade school you admit that you don’t underchildren with learning disabilities, for instance, who stand him!” (Dr. Mel Levine from struggled academically before they were identified, ashis book, “The Myth of Laziness,” 2003). sessed and provided support.

I have often thought about what my superviI remember a girl named Anna who was brought to sor told me in my first year out of graduate me because of her history of failing in school. Her parschool, that every child wants to please his ents were of course extremely frustrated and above all teachers and his parents. They want to keep fearful and worried for her future. They had tried many up with their classmates. They want to hold strategies, including reward systems, consequences, their heads high when their grandparents ask micro-managing her assignments, tutors, etc. how things are going in school. They want to Unfortunately, Anna only remembered the conflict feel good about themselves. They are naturally Robert Rhodes and the labels and predictions she picked up along the curious and eager learners. Finally, they have a way. Lazy, not very smart, not caring about school, not natural inclination to produce and they understand the connection living up to her potential and destined to “flip burgers” the rest of between school performance and future choices in life. her life. But most of all, she remembered her parents’ and teachYet, there are kids who are not performing, and these are the ers’ disappointment. Anna was eventually tested by the school and outliers. These kids are frequently labeled as lazy, told they are not was found to have significant learning disabilities. With the added working up to their potential and are often met with disappointment support, Anna eventually graduated at age 19. She felt tremenfrom parents and teachers. Let’s take a closer look at these kids to dous pride and gratitude to her teachers at her charter school. She find out what is really going on. also spoke about the relief at having proved wrong all those who If you believe as I do that kids cannot inherently be lazy, then by doubted her, and at vanquishing her own self-doubts. definition, as a parent, you will look for other reasons to explain Continued on Page 5

By Robert Rhodes

L

Enjoy the holidays

Four guidelines you may not have considered

T

By Daniel Bobinski he holiday season can be a mixed bag for many people.

Trying to live up to a commercialized “ideal” or trying to re-create the magic of times past can be mentally and/or emotionally taxing. If we’re not careful, it can also be disappointing and depressing. Therefore, having a few guidelines may help transform our minds about defining success for the holidays.

Before we jump in, please notice I used the term guidelines instead of rules. The holidays can be stressful enough. There’s no need to burden ourselves with a list of “thou Daniel Bobinski shalt / thou shalt not” statements. Instead, we can set guidelines for ourselves and then find joy in achieving little successes along the way.

The first guideline I’d like to suggest is grace. Many people define grace as unmerited favor. In the hustle and bustle of the holidays, extending grace to others (unmerited favor) sets an excellent foundation for an atmosphere of peace. And isn’t “peace on earth” one of our most popular holiday sayings? Criticizing others for their quirks doesn’t set the tone for peace, and even if someone is being obstinate on purpose, there’s no reason to fight fire with fire. It always takes two to tango, so by extending grace with a large helping of instant forbearance, we lay a

November 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

healthy foundation for peace.

By the way, it’s also healthy to give grace to yourself. The reason? Believe it or not, you don’t need to be perfect! There’s no need to set unrealistic standards for yourself, and being selfcritical or living in fear of others’ criticism is no way to live.

Consider Susan, who was overly concerned about what others thought about her every Christmas season. Every year she thought she needed to bake the perfect cookies, attend every function, and buy the perfect gift for everyone she knew, and if she didn’t do all that, she’d somehow be “less than.”

Oh, the stress Susan had. Eventually she came to dread the holidays. It wasn’t until she chose to “give up being perfect” that Susan started enjoying the holiday season once again.

This leads me to my second guideline, minimize. As Susan discovered, we just can’t do everything. Minimize means learning to say “no” to some activities. If you’re the type who has a tough time saying the word “no,” try saying, “I’m sorry — that just won’t work for me this year.” It’s a way of saying no without having to use the word.

You can also minimize the number of gifts you give, and maybe even the amount you spend. As the Beatles pointed out all those years ago, you can’t buy love. Another saying that applies here is “Less is More.”

You can also minimize the amount of decorating you do. But if you insist on doing a lot of decorating, bringing others onboard to help will minimize the time required by you to do it.

Continued on Page 5

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Rhodes Continued from page 4

There are many root causes to explain why children may be struggling in school. Here are a few of them: • Learning disabilities – Neurologically based processing problems which can interfere with learning basic skills such as reading, writing and/or math.

• Mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and others) – Disorders that tax motivation and contribute to hopelessness.

• ADHD – A condition that affects attention, focus, organization and memory.

• Autism spectrum disorder – A developmental disorder that is characterized by repetitive and restricted behaviors and by impaired language and cognitive development.

• Temperament – The typical social, behavioral and academic demands of school are difficult for certain kids to adhere to.

• Family stress – Any number of stressors can derail a child from being able to devote the necessary energy to the normal demands of school.

All of these causes can complicate a student’s best intentions and result in discouragement, a fear of failure, a fear of expectations and a lack of confidence. These traits can be insidious and

Bobinski Continued from page 4

Besides, it will create camaraderie and good memories with people, who are always more important than things.

That leads us to my third guideline, be present. Whatever you find yourself doing over the holidays, be present to the people you’re with. Focus on them. Ask them lots of questions about what’s been going on. Tune into their thoughts and feelings and put the stories about yourself on the back burner.

A guy named Jack recently told me about his efforts doing this.

He said that the more he asked other people questions about what was going on in their lives and getting them to talk about themselves, the more fun he had enjoying the conversation.

And the by-product was good, too — he said other people were spending more time talking with him.

A word of warning to anyone who tends to scroll through Facebook while in the company of others: Being present means putting away your smart phone and being present both physi-

take on a life of their own if not fully understood and addressed from the outset.

It is important to remember that no one is more disappointed in school failure than your child. Also, remember that your child is as confused as you are. Every other kid just gets up, goes to school, does his homework and passes his classes. Your child is thinking, “Why can’t I?!”

So, make the commitment to be the person who solves the riddle. And join your child in the quest to recognize and understand the real issues that are affecting his or her performance.

Engage his teachers and others in the pursuit. Reframe the belief away from “my child is lazy” to there is something else causing my child to struggle. Then patiently help your child meet you halfway in implementing the solution.

Helping them to recognize and understand the real issues affecting their performance goes a long way towards improving their confidence and sense of self-worth. It will also pave the way for a fulfilling and productive adulthood. Finally, when the grandparents come to visit, the child can proudly look them in the eye and talk to them about school. n Robert Rhodes has a master of social work from the University of California, Berkeley. He obtained his license as a clinical social worker in 1989. Since then he has worked in multiple settings with children and adolescents. He has been in private practice for the past 16 years. He may be reached at rrhodes.lcsw@gmail.com, (208) 900-8500, or boiseteencounseling.com.

cally and mentally.

Lastly I want to suggest that people be intentional about the first three guidelines. Stated another way, have a purpose for all your activities. Be purposeful in extending grace to yourself and others. If things start getting intense, consider the ripple-effects of extending grace and then choose it.

If your calendar starts getting full, be intentional about saying “no.” Your highest priorities should get your time. Just don’t say “no” arbitrarily. Simply make a choice to keep your sanity by minimizing your list of activities based on your priorities. For example, if your tradition is to bake a dozen different kinds of cookies, maybe this year you decide that three different types will be okay — and then choose to really enjoy making them instead of feeling overwhelmed that you must bake all 12 varieties.

Finally, be intentional about being present. When your friends or family are with you, be intentional about being there with them.

There’s no need to make these hard-and-fast rules. But by operating with these guidelines, your holiday season is likely to be more memorable and more enjoyable. n Daniel Bobinski is the director of Family Experience, LLC, (familyexperience.net) and owner of workplace-excellence.com. As a popular speaker and trainer, Daniel travels internationally, helping businesses and speaking at conferences on incorporating emotional intelligence into work life and family. He can be reached at (208) 375-7606.

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IDAHO

MAGAZINE

Idaho Family Magazine | November 2016

Irene’s Insights

Decorate for the holidays…because it matters the funds to buy a tree, let alone any gifts for me and my younger brother. It did not look like there would be Christmas for us that year. Artificial trees were not really affordable or available at that time. She was crying and o you decorate for the seadid not know what to do. She was young, and she did sons? Most people decorate not want to be a burden on her other siblings or her for Christmas, but others just mom about this. do not want to be bothered.

My dad was on the road, and we did not know if he I have done a personal survey throughout would even be home that Christmas. I will never forget my life. I’ve noticed something about the that she said a simple prayer and asked for a miracle. We homeowners or apartment dwellers who received an unexpected guest that evening. It was my decorate when a seasonal change arrives.

Uncle Frank, Mom’s oldest brother. He said he really They seem to be more engaged in life and hadn’t planned on coming, but he felt a real impression understand that decorating lifts their mood that he should stop by. He saw how sad my mom was and their visitors’ moods alike. and asked her why. She told him of our family challenge.

As we get older, I know how some of He told us to stay home and not to go anywhere and us do not have as much energy, or we are Irene Woodworth he would return in a while. Later on he came back with now empty nesters and some friends ask us, a few bags and a fully decorated Christmas tree. (It had been a “Why bother?” If you are not able or interested in doing a huge store display.) I remember that it was not a big tree. It was perhaps Christmas decoration project, then you may want to consider doa four-foot tabletop tree, but there was something magical for us ing something small and doable for you. As we downsize, then we that evening. To our little family it was absolutely perfect. need to accommodate space-taking décor. We can always donate My uncle’s love totally transformed our home into a cheerful our massive Christmas decorations to our children, family or to charity. Some people even sell them at garage sales or put some of and absolutely magical place. We felt loved and not alone, and someone above made us feel special with that beautiful tree. Then them on eBay to sell and make a few extra dollars.

I remembered what my grandmother had told us many times My late maternal grandmother, Nana Huerta, said before: “There is a blessing when you have a tree in your home.”

I thought I would suggest some ideas that would make your something to me that I have carried on throughout decorating for Christmas simple and easy and bring more life into your home throughout the year, but especially during Christmas. my life. If you are not able I often look online and check out the latest on Pinterest to stimuto do a lot of decorating, late some ideas. For instance: then at least put up a tree, 1. Select a special decoration for your table or your kitchen whether it is big or small. counter that is out of the way but just adds a little “something” to There is a blessing when this frequently seen space. you do.

2. Your front door is usually an easy and quick place to put a Once upon a time when I was a little 8-year-old girl, I Christmas wreath that welcomes you and your guests.

3. Your outdoor entryway is a wonderful place to put up a experienced something that impacted my life regarding seasonal colorful flag that greets your guests as they walk into your home. decorating for Christmas.

4. When the days are shorter and darker, we need extra light My mom was very sad to brighten our home and our spirits. You can use small twinkle because she did not have white or colored lights to decorate a darker area. A friend of mine keeps her rope white lights throughout the year and puts them on Designer Irene Woodworth encourages everyone to decorate for the holidays, because when an area gets extra dark. even the simplest décor lends warmth to a home and lifts spirits. (Stock photos) 5. Do you have a fireplace?

By Irene Woodworth

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for adding touches of red and white color and décor to give you that “Christmas feeling” in small ways. The blogger, Linda, calls her blog, “It all started with paint, my home, my canvas.”

(I could easily relate to that phrase in my life!) It shows you how you can also decorate in an “easy peasy” way that adds simple pleasures to your home this holiday season. Even if this is not your style of decorating, I wanted to show you how it can be done. Visit http://www.itallstartedwithpaint.com/red-white-holiday-decor-tour.

No matter if you do a lot or a little, just realize there are alternatives for decorating your home this season. Or you may be tired and overwhelmed and need a little help; you can always hire a professional, like me, to decorate your home this year. Christmas decorating is one of my many favorite things to do. I am offering a special holiday decorating service for those who mention they saw this article in Idaho Family Magazine.

I am offering a one-and-a-half hour decorating special called Holiday Decorating for only $150. Seniors’ special pricing will be $100.

Remember there is a special blessing when you bring a little Christmas cheer as you decorate. n

Irene Woodworth is known as “Idaho’s Color Lady” and is founder and CEO of Redesign Boise. She is a national redesign award winner, motivational speaker, certified redesigner and color consultant, and instructor on redesign and color. She has a degree in education and interior design. She has taught various decorating and color classes throughout the country. She may be reached at Irene@RedesignBoise.com. For more information, visit RedesignBoise.com.

11-2016

Decorating a mantle with a couple of candles, some greens and/or colorful décor is another area that you can decorate quickly. It greets you daily.

6. Even special Christmas coffee mugs can be set up on your counters when you want some coffee or tea to warm up your body and spirit. I choose colorful mugs that put a smile on my face to use throughout the season for my coffee or tea.

7. You can purchase a few special ornaments to decorate your home. Sometimes it is more dramatic when you use one or two colors of ornaments. Place your ornaments in a clear bowl or special container, and voila, instant holiday cheer.

8. Select a small or skinny tabletop tree for a corner or a small table that is seen easily in your home.

9. Getting Christmas candy canes or other types of candy and putting them in clear containers is an easy décor idea that serves a couple of purposes. As your guests arrive or leave, they can have a treat, and it also adds that sweet touch of décor to your home.

10. Make your décor more secure to reuse annually. Since I have been donating to the Saint Alphonsus Festival of Trees, one thing we are instructed to do is secure our ornaments to our tree by either gluing them or wiring them on to the branches. This ensures the tree can be transported and used yearly. Perhaps if you did this, you could pull out your holiday décor and it would not require you to decorate it annually. By doing this, you are able to store your tree or home décor in a large bag or storage bin and then take it out as needed. I am a big fan of clear bags and containers so that you can locate your items easily in a closet or garage.

You may be interested in checking out a blog that I recently found on Pinterest that showcases some simple and colorful tips

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Idaho Family Magazine | November 2016

Manic Mothering

Pushup challenge hurts but helps families

By Beth Markley

W

hen Mike said he was taking icebucket challenge a couple years ago, I told him if he tagged me, or if anyone he tagged, tagged me, or if anyone THEY tagged, tagged me, I was going to take it as a sign he wanted me to kick him out and change the password on our Netflix account.

It was kind of overkill and I Beth Markley probably wouldn’t have done something drastic like change our password, but I really don’t like wearing ice water or getting my hair wet or being on video or anything, so I figured I had to make a pretty strong statement right off the bat.

Flash-forward a couple years and apparently I didn’t get the word out about my general grumpiness on this type of thing before my friend Amanda roped me into something I like just about as much as being doused on my back porch.

Pushups. I hate them. I know they’re good for you, but I still hate them.

I take a Body Pump class as often as I can, or at least whenever I notice my triceps waving like sheets on a clothesline. It’s weightlifting set to music and manages to not be as gouge-your-eyeballs-out boring as normal weightlifting with no soundtrack.

There are always pushups in Body Pump. Just like there is usually some very important thing to which I must attend when we get to the pushups. Sure I’d rather be propping myself with my face two feet from the floor, making my neck veins pop out and my face get red, but, hey, I have … this … call to make … or whatever.

It’s probably to the benefit of my instructor and fellow students that I make myself scarce during pushups. If I passed out, they’d have to roll me over and evaluate whether I need the paddles, or whether any of them have any strength in their overtaxed arms to do CPR, or if it’s even worth it to assist this woman who regularly elbows her way to the space in the front of the room and then skips the part with the pushups.

When Amanda tagged me in her pushup challenge, she didn’t know I have an aversion to challenges, or pushups, but she also said something about my being a badass. Which, even though that’s really code for “Don’t come after me. I bruise easily, and I’m a fan of frivolous lawsuits,” it wasn’t like I could back down.

But I also wasn’t sure I could do that many pushups in a year, much less at one time.

Turns out I could and I can and tonight is night 10 or something and I’ve learned a few abidingly DEEP and INSIGHTFUL things during this challenge that I wanted to share: My carpet is distressingly dirty.

Daylight is not my friend. And by daylight, I mean any light.

I don’t remember looking this old in the bathroom mirror.

Maybe it’s my camera.

November 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

Taking my glasses off during pushups helps with #1. You taking your glasses off would help with #2.

A broken pinkie toe does not impede pushups, but gets a fair amount of sympathy when you point it out just prior to doing them.

Judging by the comments, I have a few friends who are either very kind or don’t know that I’m doing pushups less pushup-y than, say, someone who doesn’t regularly skip whole sections of her Body Pump class.

I have at least one friend who apparently doesn’t worry about how stabby I get when someone publicly critiques my pushup form.

I have a remarkable ability to refrain from sarcasm when someone publicly critiques my pushup form. … even though there are a number of funny things I could say in response to judgy comments. Things like:

“Oh yeah? Well wait until you see me do this sober.”

I spend an inordinate amount of time thinking up responses to judgy comments instead of doing anything productive.

People have a really distorted idea about how much I drink, and it might be because of my sense of humor.

Okay, in all seriousness …

There’s a cause behind this 22×22 pushup challenge. It’s about shedding light on needs of the men and women who’ve served in the military to ensure the freedom and safety of others, and the astonishingly high rate of suicide among them after they return. Although there are those who call that exact figure of 22 daily suicides by veterans into question, there is no question we owe these people. We owe their families. Even one suicide a day is one too many.

September also happened to be National Suicide Prevention month, and, although I’m rather late to the party, it doesn’t hurt anyone, least of all me with my whiny, inadequate pushups, to remember there are people who hurt, and those who love them who wish there were more resources to help.

I’m going to include here resources for veterans. I’m going to stick with the pushups. I may even vacuum my carpet. n

Beth Markley is a humor writer and fundraising consultant who lives in Boise with her husband and two sons. She publishes weekly stories about her misadventures in parenting in her blog, Manic Mumblings of a Mediocre Mom at www.manicmumbling.com.

Information and support for veterans and their families • https://www.22kill.com/22-honor-pushups/ • https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/ • http://wyakin.org/about/ • https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/

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CRAFTS On A Dime

Get your home company-ready for holidays

By Samantha Stillman

W

ith Thanksgiving and Christmas around the corner, my house needs to be companyready quickly. One of my least favorite chores is scrubbing the sinks and showers. While my magic eraser is a cleaning must in my home, it still requires that I scrub those stubborn soap scum rings. I call this my lazy girl hack, but it really just saves so much time and energy. Let me know how it works for you at craftsonadime10@gmail.com. n

2 Supplies needed: Picture 1 White vinegar Empty spray Blue Dawn bottle dish soap Measuring Wisk cups Instructions:

1

Samantha Stillman

11-2016

Samantha Stillman is a Treasure Valley crafts instructor and freelance writer. She may be reached at craftsonadime10@gmail.com.

Heat 12 ounces of white vinegar in the microwave for 90 seconds. Measure out 10 ounces of Dawn soap and wisk it together with the vinegar. Pour all of the ingredients into an empty spray bottle. For cleaning, spray all surfaces evenly and allow it to sit and do its magic.

For stubborn soap scum, allow it to sit for at least 2 hours. Then it just wipes away easily with a damp cleaning cloth. If you have a detachable shower head in your shower like I do, then it can rinse away with no wiping or scrubbing. Picture 2

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Idaho Family Magazine | November 2016

IDAHO

MAGAZINE

National Adoption Month events

CALENDAR a raffle, and food sales. All proceeds will benefit the Boise Elks’ Veterans Service Committee, so come out and enjoy holiday festivities while helping those who’ve served in the American military.

November

November is National Adoption Month and 2016 marks the 15th year in which the nation recognizes the impact adoption has on families.

There are many educational and celebratory events that occur throughout the month for adoptive families and those considering adoption. Some of the activities in this area include: • November 1-30 – Adoption facts, entertainment, stories and more will be posted daily on A New Beginning’s Facebook and Instagram feeds to promote awareness about adoption. Join in the fun by liking, commenting and sharing. Go to Facebook.com/ anewbeginningadoptionagency and Instagram @anewbeginningadoption.

• November 5 – Rock the Red Carpet Homecoming Dance & Fundraising event to celebrate Adoptive Families Gotcha Days and raise money for post-adoption support for birth families, adoptees and parent training. Adoptive families interested in attending may obtain tickets at www.adoptanewbeginning.org.

• November 15 – Foster-Adoption Discussion Panel from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at 8660 W. Emerald St., Ste. 142 in Boise.

It’s an unfiltered discussion with pre-teens, teens and the families who have adopted older children through the foster-care system. Reserve your spot, join the conversation and receive information about how to move forward with a foster-adoption process. Email admin@ adoptanewbeginning.org.

• November 19 – National Adoption Day A New Beginning Adoption Agency is a non-profit, full-service agency providing services to Idaho families, free and confidential services to women and men experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, and a wellness/counseling clinic that specializes in grief and loss, trauma, blending families, abuse and other areas that are common among adoptive families and foster families. For more information, go to www.adoptanewbeginning.org or call 939-3865.

Craft & Chocolate Affaire November 4-5

The Nampa Civic Center will kick off the holiday season with its annual Craft & Chocolate Affaire from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, November 4, and at 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, November 5. General admission at the door is $2, and concessions are available. It’s a great event for chocolate connoisseurs — there will be handmade chocolates, a flowing chocolate foundation, and much more. There will also be hand-crafted items made by more than 90 local artisans available for purchase. Go to http://www.cityofnampa.us/index.aspx?NID=1063.

Holiday Bazaar at Boise Elks November 5

The Boise Elks will host a “Fall into the Holidays” bazaar, complete with Santa, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, November 5, at the Elks Lodge at 6608 W. Fairview Ave. The free event will feature live music,

10 November 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

Friends Fall Holiday Book Sale November 5-6

Find quality gift books at affordable prices at the Friends of the Boise Public Library book sale from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, November 5, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, November 6, at the warehouse across from the main branch of the library at 762 River Street. There will be vintage and collectible books, as well as a variety of new and gently used books, available for all ages. Other items will also be offered, all of them “priced to sell.” Go to boisepubliclibrary.org.

Jump Creek Hike November 5

Join the Nampa Rec Department and explore Jump Creek Canyon from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturday, November 5, with departure and return at the Nampa Rec Center. The trail to the waterfall is an easy quarter-mile hike; after exploring the waterfall, the group will hike to the top of the ridge for a good view of the surrounding landscape. Cost is $10, and participants should dress for the weather and bring a packed lunch.

Children are welcome. Go to nampaparksandrecreation.org.

Pepper Ridge Annual Bazaar and Fun Run November 5

Pepper Ridge Elementary will host its annual bazaar and fun run from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Saturday, November 5, at 2252 S. Sumpter Way in Boise. Families are welcome to come enjoy the bazaar, music and food before participating in the Night Light Fun Run. All proceeds go toward students’ and teachers’ programs. For more information, call 850-5046.

Family Programs at Nampa Public Library November 5, 10, 17 & 28

Many programs for families will be held at the Nampa Public Library throughout November. Two programs called “Discovery!” are planned. One will take place from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, November 5, and the other is set for 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday, November 10. Other programs include an animal presentation from Petco from 4 to 5 p.m. Thursday, November 17, and a special Christmas Coloring Contest from November 28 to December 16. All family members of any age are welcome to participate in any these free programs. Go to www.nampalibrary.org.

Election Night at Pinz November 8

Watch the election results roll in while knocking pins down with a bowling ball on November 8 at Pinz Bowling Center, 1385 S. Blue Marlin Ln. in Meridian. There will be $2 bowling games and $15 cheese and pepperoni pizzas. Go to pinzbowlingidaho.com.

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of Events

Month of November & Early December Please send family-related calendar items to gayeb@sterlingmedialtd.com.

New Dance, Up Close, Fall Series November 10-13

Ballet Idaho dancers and local choreographers will hold this “edgy dance event” at various times November 10-13 at 501 S. 8th St. in downtown Boise. Tickets are $20-$25. Go to balletidaho.org.

be a Kids Corner where kids may entertain themselves while parents shop. Contact the Nampa Elks Lodge for more information.

Velma V. Morrison Family Theatre Series

The Christmas Bazaar at Kleiner Park will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, November 12, at the Meridian Senior Center, 1920 N. Records Ave. in Kleiner Park behind The Village in Meridian. Come have breakfast or lunch, enjoy a DJ and karaoke, as well as 50 gift vendors. Mr. Twisty will be available to make balloon art for the kids.

For more information, call 353-2678.

November 11

The Kennedy Center’s Elephant & Piggie’s “We Are in a Play!” will be presented at 7 p.m. Friday, November 11, at the Morrison Center.

This “romp of a musical” is recommended for ages 4 and up. Cost is $6.50 (ticketing fees not included). Go to http://www.morrisoncenter. com/events/detail/elephant-piggie.

Splash ‘n Dash

November 11 & December 16

Nampa Rec Center staff helps organize the splash while parents dash off to a Friday evening doing whatever they want — from going out to dinner to getting caught up around the house. Children ages 3-7 will be entertained in the Rec Center pools, with close supervision and a certified lifeguard, from 5:45 to 9:45 p.m. Friday, November 11.

Cost is $13 for members and $18 for non-members. A similar event is set for December 16. (Children must be potty trained to participate.)

Go to nampaparksandrecreation.org.

Thank-a-Veteran Day November 11

Active or retired military can present their military ID and get two free games of bowling and a free shoe rental from 10 a.m. to midnight Friday, November 11, at Pinz Bowling Center in Meridian.

Go to pinzbowlingidaho.com.

Caldwell Holiday Bazaar November 11

The Caldwell Holiday Bazaar will begin at 10 a.m. Friday, November 11, at O’Connor Field House, 2207 Blaine St., and begins again at the same time the following day. Go to cityofcaldwell.com.

2nd Annual Pre-Holiday Extravaganza November 12

The Nampa Elks will hold a Pre-Holiday Extravaganza from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday, November 12, at the Nampa Elks Lodge, 1116 1st St. S. The free event will feature a raffle for a basket filled with goodies valued at more than $300.

Jammi’s Dawgs will be selling food, and there will

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Christmas Bazaar at Kleiner Park November 12

1st Annual Glitterfest November 12

The 1st Annual Glitterfest, hosted by Sparrow Nest, will be held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday, November 12, at the Bella Event Center in Historic Downtown Nampa, 120 13th Ave. There will be handmade gifts, vintage furniture, shabby chic and artisan crafts. Dutch Bros. will be serving hot and cold drinks; there will also be authentic homemade Asian eggrolls and baked goods.

Admission is $5, and a portion of the proceeds goes to the Nampa Rescue Mission and the Boise Food Pantry. For more information, call Sandra Aldrich at 550-7028.

Predators of the Foothills program November 12

The Second Saturday program at the Jim Hall Foothills Learning Center on November 12 will include a presentation about the predators, large and small, that wander the gulches and rivers of the Boise Foothills. The relationship between predators and prey is key in any ecosystem; come learn from a Fish and Game specialist who will talk about the importance of the Foothills’ fascinating creatures.

The program will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is free and family-friendly. No preregistration is required. Go to bee.cityofboise. org/foothills/.

Holiday Bazaar at Idaho Arts Charter School November 12

The 8th Annual Idaho Arts Charter School will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, November 12, at the school, 1220 5th St. S. in Nampa. The free event featuring handmade items and holiday gifts supports the school’s senior scholarship fund.

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CALENDAR of Events BCT Children’s Reading Series

November 15. Coloring supplies will be provided, along with light snacks. Attendees are encouraged to bring along a brown bag dinner. For more information, contact Amanda Beradinelli at aberadinelli@mld.org.

November 13

Boise Contemporary Theater launched its 2016 Children’s Reading Series October 23, with a performance of the classic children’s story “Bunnicula.” The series allows children to “hear a play,” as professional actors bring engaging tales to life.

All stories in the series are perfect for children ages 6 and up. The next story to come to life will be “How High Is Up?”, which will be performed at 2 p.m. Sunday, November 13, on the stage at 854 Fulton St. in downtown Boise. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for children. More information about the series schedule, descriptions of the stories, and purchasing tickets may be found online at BCTheater.org or by calling 331-9224.

Garrison Keillor at the Morrison Center November 14

Best-selling author, radio personality, humorist and American icon, Garrison Keillor, will bring his special brand of wit and wisdom to the Morrison Center at 7 p.m. Monday, November 14. For tickets and other information, go to morrisoncenter.com.

Foster Care Program Informational Meetings November 14 & 17

Foster Care Program Informational Meetings are set for 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Monday, November 14, at the St. Luke’s Medical Facility at 520 E. Eagle Rd. in Meridian in the facility’s Paiute Room on the lower level.

Another meeting is planned for 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, November 17, at the Nampa Police Department Hugh Nichols Public Safety Building, 820 2nd St. S. For more information, contact Monique Layton at mlayton4@ewu.org.

Dinner & a Book November 15

Reading together is a great way for parents and children to share an activity while helping the children build reading and verbal skills. Join the Library! at Cole & Ustick in celebrating Idaho Family Reading Week with Dinner & a Book from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, November 15. Flying M pizza will be served, along with ice cream for dessert. Registration opened November 1. Go to http://www. boisepubliclibrary.org/classes-events/online-calendar/#/?i=15.

(Other branches of the library will be hosting the event as well. Check out boisepubliclibrary.org for more information.)

Family Coloring Night November 15

Take the entire family to the Cherry Lane branch of the Meridian library for a relaxing night of coloring from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday,

12 November 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

Continued from page 11

11th Annual Holiday House Boutique November 17-19

This annual holiday event will be held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. November 17-19 at Castlebury Subdivision off Chinden in Eagle. Items available for purchase will include locally handmade arts and crafts, fall and holiday décor, handmade baked goods, jewelry, spa products, wreaths, baby gifts, children’s and women’s clothing, wood crafts, bags, signs, cards and more. For more information, including directions, call Monica Tanner at 283-1423.

Turkey Shoot and Specials November 17 & 24

A free Thanksgiving turkey will be given to anyone who bowls a turkey (3 strikes in a row) during Pinz Prize Bowling from 7 to 9 p.m.

Thursday, November 17, at Pinz Bowling Center in Meridian. Cost is $14.99 for two games of bowling, and there is a limit of one turkey per bowler. Also, Pinz will host a day of family fun while Thanksgiving dinner is cooking or after it’s over on Thanksgiving Day, November 24. Unlimited laser tag will be available for $9.99, with bowling at just 99 cents, at Wahooz and Pinz.

Winter Wonderland in Downtown Caldwell November 18

The 2016 Winter Wonderland lights in downtown Caldwell will be turned on Friday, November 18, during the community’s Winter Wonderland activities. The schedule includes: food and activities, 4 p.m.; depot open house, 6 to 9 p.m.; and the downtown lighting at 7 p.m. Other highlights include Santa and his workshop, a Kids’ Zone, a Snowflake Shuffle, and live entertainment. The lights along Indian Creek will remain on each night until January 15. Go to http://www.cityofcaldwell.com/winter_wonderland.

Reading Allowed: One Paige at a Time November 18

Children, teens and adults all love stories — short, long, funny or sad stories. Bring your family to the Library! at Collister from 4 to 5 p.m.

Friday, November 18, and listen to a story unfold. There will be drawing materials and a “tinker” table for listeners who need to keep busy, but the main event will be a selection of favorite short stories being read by a book-loving librarian. The program is held the third Friday of every month. Go to boisepubliclibrary.org.

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Canyon County Christmas Show & Festival of Trees

Station, or the interactive photo station. The program is free, and no pre-registration is required. Go to bee. cityofboise.org/watershed/.

November 18-20

The Ford Idaho Center will once again be the site of the annual Canyon County Christmas Show beginning at 11 a.m. November 18-20. Ford Idaho Center will also be the center of activity for the Canyon County Festival of Trees, which will begin at 11 a.m. November 25-27. Go to fordidahocenter.com.

Anything Can Happen! with Paige Moore November 19

Paige Moore presents fun and engaging music and movement programs for children ages 0-12 years old. The youngsters participate in hands-on music experiences that encourage growth, learning and fun. Paige will entertain children from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m.

Saturday, November 19, at the Cherry Lane branch of the Meridian library.

This month, she’ll feature the classic story, “Harold and the Purple Crayon.”

The story includes walking through the moonlight, encountering a dragon, and voyaging across the sea. Go to mld.org.

Music Theatre of Idaho auditions November 18-19

Music Theatre of Idaho will hold auditions for its 2017 season from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, November 18-19, at the Nampa Civic Center. Reserve your time slot; register online at www.mtionline.org. It’s free to audition, and there will be roles for children.

International Suicide Loss Day

Boise Holiday Parade

November 19

November 19

Those who are healing from a suicide loss come together to help heal one another and find common support. Locally, there will be a get-together beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, November 19, at the ISU Meridian campus, 1311 Central Dr. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call 855-4300.

This year’s Boise Holiday Parade will begin at 9:45 a.m. Saturday, November 19, in downtown Boise. The 2016 grand marshal is Marcellus Brown, professor of music at Boise State. Go to http://www.boiseholidayparade.org.

Turkey Shoot

November 21-22

November 19

Win a Thanksgiving turkey by forming a team of one adult and one child and taking 10 free-throw shots each during the Nampa Rec Center’s annual Turkey Shoot. This year’s shoot will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, November 19. The team with the highest combined total in each age division (children must be 6-13 years of age) takes home a bird. Participants may come a half hour early to practice.

Advance registration is required and may be done at the center or online at nampaparksandrecreation.org. Cost per team is $5 for members and $7 for non-members.

International Games Day November 19

Go to the Library! at Hillcrest for the annual celebration of games, play, libraries and learning for people of all ages from 1 to 3 p.m.

Saturday, November 19. Challenge your friends to one of the library’s games or introduce the library to one of yours. There will be games for all ages, and library personnel will be available to teach people how to play them. There will also be treats and prizes. Go to boisepubliclibrary.org.

Map Mania at the WaterShed

November 19

Find your way to the Boise WaterShed for a day of mapping in celebration of GIS Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, November 19. This year’s theme is pirates; activities will include creating treasure maps of your neighborhood, playing map games for cool prizes, and decorating and eating your own treasure map cookie. Participants may enjoy the Augmented Reality Sandbox, the Young Geographers

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Rec Center Dance Camp Nampa Parks & Recreation holds school break dance camps at the Nampa Rec Center. Each two-day dance class includes dance instruction, as well as crafts and games for children ages 4-8. The theme of the class November 21-22 is Star Wars and will be held from 4 to 5 p.m. Come learn a Star Wars dance and enjoy a glow in the dark dance party. Cost is $17 for members and $23 for non-members.

Go to nampaparksandrecreation.org.

Thanksgiving Break Drop-In Program November 21-23

Gobble your way to fun in the exhibit hall at the Boise WaterShed to enjoy make-and-take crafts and activities on the theme of Thanksgiving from 10 a.m. to noon each day November 21-23. The program is free. Go to bee.cityofboise.org/watershed.

Laps Before Naps November 24

Go to the Nampa Rec Center and get your laps in before your afterturkey naps sometime between the hours of 5 a.m. to noon Thursday, November 24. Bring four items of canned or non-perishable food for the Idaho Food Bank and receive free entry. Interested people may enjoy laps around the track or laps around the pool, whatever their preference.

More Events on Page 14 Idaho Family Magazine | November 2016 13

CALENDAR of Events Winter Garden aGlow

at the Cherry Lane branch of the Meridian library. Any un-exchanged items you don’t want to take home will be donated to Goodwill and the Idaho Youth Ranch. Go to mld.org.

Kicks off November 24

Once again, the Idaho Botanical Garden will feature its annual holiday display of 300,000 sparkling lights beautifully decorating the garden landscape. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the event, which will kick off at 6 p.m. Thanksgiving Day, November 24. On select nights, Santa will make an appearance, choirs will sing, and a G-scale model train called Holiday Express will wind its way through the winter wonderland. For costs and other information, go to idahobotanicalgarden.org.

“A Christmas Carol”

Continued from page 13

Puppets: Waiting for Snow December 2

This free, half-hour puppet show is appropriate for families with children up to 6 years old and will take place from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Friday, December 2, at the main branch of Boise Public Library. In this show, baby squirrel has never seen snow. His friend, Morris the Moose, has told him snow is white, cold and beautiful. Baby squirrel is too excited to wait for snow to fall, so he goes out looking for it. But how will he find it if he doesn’t know what it looks like? (This show will also be performed on other days and times. Go to boisepubliclibrary.org.)

Fiesta Fridays

November 25-December 17

Stage Coach Theatre will present “A Christmas Carol” at various times throughout November 25-December 17 at the theater’s site at 4802 W. Emerald in Boise. Tickets are $15. Go to http:// stagecoachtheatre.com/season-36-2016-2017/ or http://www. eventbrite.com/o/stage-coach-theatre-2762190930. Tickets may be purchased at Eventbrite or at the theater box office.

December 2

“Miracle on 34th Street, the Play”

Meridian Winter Lights Parade & Tree Lighting

November 25-December 10

Boise Little Theater will present “Miracle on 34th Street, the Play” at various times throughout November 25-December 10 at the theater’s site at 100 E. Fort St. For more information, or to purchase tickets, go to boiselittletheater.org.

Clothing Swap at the Library November 26

Bring the entire family and explore hispanic culture during a fun-filled evening of games, crafts, stories and food from 5 to 5:30 p.m. Friday, December 2, at the Cherry Lane branch of the Meridian library.

The event is held the first Friday of every month, and sign-up is not required.

December 2

This annual event will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, December 2, in downtown Meridian. A Winter Lights Fun Run will begin at 6:30 p.m. starting at Storey Park. Go to http://www. meridiancity.org/calendar.aspx.

Children’s Winterland Festival

Bring your friends and a bag of clean, gently used clothing, shoes and accessories to trade from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, November 26,

December 3

This fun holiday festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday, December 3, in the Meridian Boys & Girls Club gymnasium, 911 N. Meridian Rd.

Meridian Symphony Orchestra Concert

AVAILABLE

NOVEMBER 2ND THROUGH JANUARY

2ND OR UNTIL

SUPPLIES LAST!!

December 3

The holiday-themed concert will take place from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Saturday, December 3. Details are available at www.meridiansymphony.org.

Star Wars Party: Go Rogue or Go Home

Heather Guardiola, Consultant http://hguardiola.myrandf.com • 208-515-6520

14 November 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

11-2016

December 3

In honor of “Star Wars: Rogue One” being released in mid-December, there will be a Star Wars party from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, December 3, at the Library! at Cole & Ustick.

There will be crafts, trivia, pizza and more.

Children, teens and adults are all invited. Go to boisepubliclibrary.org.

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Holiday events in Eagle December 10 & 12

December 8-10

One of Disney’s most popular movies, “Mary Poppins,” was turned into a musical and will be presented at the Nampa Civic Center at various times December 8-10. For ticket information, go to https://ticketpeak. com/res/musictheatreofidaho.

Treasure Valley Night Light Parade December 3

The Treasure Valley Night Light Parade marks its 14th year this year, with the parade beginning at 6 p.m. Saturday, December 3, along Blaine Street in Caldwell.

The Nutcracker Ballet December 6 & 7

Caldwell Fine Arts will present the holiday favorite The Nutcracker Ballet at 7 p.m. Tuesday, December 6, at Jewett Auditorium on the College of Idaho campus. Also on the CFA holiday schedule is Nutcracker Jr. from 1 to 6 p.m.

Wednesday, December 7, and Clara’s Tea Party at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 6 (sold only with The Nutcracker Ballet) and at 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Wednesday, December 7, at the C of I Langroise Center.

For costs, tickets and other information, go to www.caldwellfinearts. org. Tickets may also be purchased over the phone at 4595275.

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Santa’s Workshop December 10

Children ages 3-12 are invited to come spend two hours making holiday crafts, playing games and decorating cookies from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, December 10, at the Nampa Rec Center. Santa himself will make an appearance during the event. Cost is $4 for members and $5 for non-members.

Advance registration is recommended. Call 468-5858 for more information.

LIFT event January 25

LIFT, a gathering of women to help you Live Inspired, Fearless, and Thriving, to be encouraged and discover more about your value and purpose, will meet from 7 to 9 p.m.

Wednesday, January 25, at The Ambrose School in Meridian. Register at liftedhigh.org. The organization is sponsored by SEARCH, a faithbased organization that provides a safe place for women to come together and explore questions about life and God. Women from all faiths and perspectives are welcome.

Traditions of Christmas December 15-23

A new tradition is making its way to the Treasure Valley. Traditions of Christmas, a Radio City Music Hall-style show for all ages, will make its “first annual” appearance at the Nampa Civic Center December 15-23. Until now, Traditions of Christmas has been exclusively playing in San Diego

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Mary Poppins, the Broadway Musical

Eagle Parks & Recreation will hold a Reindeer Rumble Run beginning at 5 p.m. Saturday, December 10, at Heritage Park. To register, go to www.cityofeagle. org/recreation. Also scheduled is a Country Christmas from 1 to 6 p.m. Monday, December 12, also at Heritage Park. For more information, contact Eagle Parks & Rec.

for over 27 years and Coeur d’Alene for the past five years. Throughout the show, Christmas classics are brought to life with song and dance, while the grand Nativity reminds audience members that there is a purpose behind the celebration. The fully staged Living Nativity features live animals and a manger surrounded by shepherds, as well as a vibrant, angelic choir.

Traditions of Christmas features a cast of 60 people, spectacular sets, and over 400 costumes.

Performances at the Nampa Civic Center, a sponsor of the show, will take place at December 15, 16, 17 and 22 at 7 p.m. and December 17, 18, 22 and 23 at 3 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at www.traditionsofchristmasnw.com, or call the box office at (208) 468-5500. Group tickets can be purchased by calling 391-2867.

Idaho Family Magazine | November 2016 15

16 November 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

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Vegetarian Thanksgiving

Expectant mom encounters aroma of turkey my husband’s arm and told him I wasn’t feeling well and had to step outside. Concerned, he asked s I go through the days of Nome what was wrong. Sadly, I told him that the vember, my mind wanders back smell of the turkey was turning my stomach. through the different Thanksgiving His family was very understanding; they comdinners I have attended. I think mented that pregnancy does different things to about who attended these gatherthe expectant mother. Up until that time, food ings. Some of those people have passed on, so had been a source of pleasant cravings. During I thought all I had were memories. However, my pregnancy, I gained a culinary appreciation one event at a Thanksgiving dinner proved to for certain foods: oranges, fajitas, peaches, burgbe more than just a family-history lesson. ers, and of course French fries, were my favorites.

Eighteen years ago I was pregnant with my What a terrible time of year to find out that turkey son and since his birthday is in February, I was betraying me, causing me discomfort by its was well into the pregnancy in November. My very aroma alone. husband and I were going to his great aunt’s As I stood outside on the balcony breathing Diane Louise Smith in the fresh air, I pondered what was going on. home for Thanksgiving dinner. I figured this was the perfect time to be pregnant — I Before my pregnancy, I enjoyed turkey. I even would be able to enjoy the wonderful Thanksgiving meal that remember when I was a young girl enjoying Thanksgiving my husband’s great aunt was preparing. She was a wonderful dinners with my parents and late grandmother. Wait a minute! cook, and all that Thursday morning, I looked forward to the I remembered on Thanksgiving, my mother would prepare a meal. steak for my grandmother since she couldn’t stand turkey.

I especially liked the dressing she made. I found out that dish I wondered if my baby would take after my grandmother and was called “stuffing” if it was cooked in the turkey and “dressthis was his way of protesting against the turkey. Though my ing” if it was made separately. I was accustomed to the quickson would not meet his great-grandmother, a tradition was beprepare box variety, so it was remarkable to me that a hearty ing passed on in a way. That thought brought me great comfort, dressing could be made from simple ingredients. It was a matter and I was able to give thanks. of having the right combination of celery, butter, bread crumbs, My husband’s family was so kind to have aired out the house sage and chicken stock. It was the perfect side dish to the tender so the heavy smell of turkey was gone. As we sat down to dinand golden turkey. ner, I dared not try any turkey. That was the year that came to We arrived at her home and the delicious smells of the meal be known as my first vegetarian Thanksgiving. n as it was cooking wafted from the kitchen. Usually, these aromas would be welcomed by my senses, but I was horrified that I was Diane Louise Smith has been married for over 20 years and is a mom and bonus mom to three sons. She is a published author of “Eye of Leomanexperiencing a wave of nausea. I was well past morning sickder,” and her blog is www.writingsbydiane.blogspot.com. She is currently ness, so I couldn’t figure out what was causing this terrible sensation. Suddenly, as I breathed in the aroma of the oven-roasted working on her master’s degree. She is also working on another book of short stories. turkey, the ill feeling in my stomach hit me strongly. I gripped

By Diane Louise Smith

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Idaho Family Magazine | November 2016 17

Teaching gratitude

Model kindness, manners for children’s sake

By Sandy Spurgeon McDaniel

H

ow many times have you heard, “Thanksgiving is for giving thanks”? So we dutifully hold hands and say a prayer before we participate in the family ritual and stuff ourselves.

My granddaughter Chelsea was grunting about eating a dinner that wasn’t her favorite. Quietly, her brother Nick asked, “Chelsea, do you ever think about what it would be like to cook a different meal every day for all of us?” The room got very quiet. His mother looked pleased.

Sandy Spurgeon Part of that choice is about Nick’s kindMcDaniel ness and some of it was learned from adults who model graciousness.

Let’s begin with please and thank you. If a child comes and says, “I’m thirsty!”, respond, “Really?” The statement didn’t involve you so don’t create a prince or princess who makes requests without showing manners.

Say to the child, “That statement doesn’t involve me. If you want me to get you something, tell me what you want and end with ‘please.’ Come back in five minutes and ask me again.” (The fiveminute pause is annoying and reminds the child to learn the lesson.)

He or she then says, “Mom, I’m thirsty. Would you get me a drink of water, please?”

If the child asks for the drink of water and forgets to say please, you say, “Oh dear, you forgot to say please at the end. Five more minutes and you can try again.”

Most parents turn children into parrots: “Say please!”

“Please!”

“Say thank you!”

“Thank you!”

The children don’t learn a lesson because there wasn’t a reason to learn it.

As for thank you, if you offer a high five, the child is reminded to say thank you. However, if the child forgets to say thank you when handed the water, count to five then say, “Oh dear, you forgot to say thank you. I will take the water back and in five minutes you can ask again.” If the child gets frustrated and says, “Forget it!” respond with, “Let me know when you get thirsty and tell me how I can help.”

All of this takes a lot of energy, but once trained the child remembers to be gracious and polite, even to strangers. Who cares about manners? Only old folks care about that stuff. Well, I’m an old folk, so let me tell you why I care about it. The pace of our lives is moving faster and faster and faster. We blow each other off rather than greet a friend or stranger. What we need to teach our children is to be kind, and one way to do so is through manners. The bridge to being a loving person is kindness. The bridge to kindness is manners.

Every morning I drive to an exercise class. In an attempt to be more grateful, I turn off my radio and count my blessings. I begin by running through the parts of my body, giving thanks for the miracle of the “vehicle” in which I live. When I get gasoline, I give thanks for money to buy it, the car that takes me places, the car that is solid, etc. Each time I come home I say, “Hello, house! Thank you for my house that keeps me safe, warm and comfortable.”

Grace is gratitude for the bounty of a meal before you.

Prayers are gratitude for the blessing of a day. A morning prayer paves the way for good things to happen. All of these ideas can be modeled for children, who then learn to be grateful.

Have you thought to be grateful for the blessing of your children?

I don’t mean the “Bless me God as I’m about to kill them!” What I mean is, “Thank you God for blessing me with all the lessons and joy this child brings to me.”

There is no greater antidote for fear than to count one’s blessings.

Asking children at dinner, “What was your high and low today?” helps them to balance the negative with a positive.

We take everything for granted. The people who lost their electricity because of a flood will feel blessed when the flick of a switch turns on a light again. You get into a car and it runs. You go to the store and buy food. You take a shower. You sleep in a bed in a warm home. You have money in your wallet. Your health is good. Your family and friends love you. So many blessings!

Maybe if we learn to be grateful without the catalyst of a disaster, our lives will feel more peaceful and loving. Thanksgiving, then, is about remembering to be grateful for everything, even the difficult times and lessons. Think of it this way: You could be a turkey!

Happy gratitude and love day! n

For 54 years, Sandy McDaniel has been an international speaker and recognized authority on families/children. Author of five books, columnist, founder of parentingsos.com, Sandy is a resident of Meridian and loves spending time with her three Idaho grandchicks. Semi-retired, she speaks to schools, churches, MOPS groups and provides parent coaching sessions in person and on the phone.

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moMENts

Amid life’s trials, find joys and make wishes Jessie quickly responded, “I really want my wish to come true.”

Being a loving grandfather, he agreed to forfeit his candle blowing for her. It was a joyous moment.

That night, as I tucked her into bed, Jessie asked if she could ’ve been writing a monthly tell me what she wished and I wouldn’t tell anyone else. She column for more than five didn’t want to ruin the wish by telling people, but she wanted years. My readers know I try to me to know. When she blew out the candles, she had made a instill some humor and a touch wish for a solution to a problem that had been worrying me. of inspiration in my stories about being In a few weeks, families will gather for Thanksgiving to rea stay-at-home dad. However, although member their blessings. Jessie, with her kind heart, will be at the I close each column with a reminder to top of my long list. Yes, we all have challenges, but joys are also “cherish the moments,” not all of life’s abundant. We find them in the sunrise or sunset on a beautiful moments feel “cherishable.” Life is hard fall day, a child’s giggle, a spouse’s embrace, or a pet’s enthusiassometimes. tic welcome-home greeting. We can also make wishes —with or Tragedies and problems fill the newswithout candles — and have hope for the future. Life is good! papers. Many times I’d like to shelter I just hope on Thanksgiving Day Jessie and her grandfather my 12-year-old daughter, Jessie, from Patrick Hempfing don’t reach for Grandmommy’s sweet potato casserole, the the headlines and photographs of a one with melted marshmallows on top, at the same time. world that seems in continual turmoil.

Until next month, remember to cherish the moments. Happy So as I sat down to write this Thanksgiving column, I pondered what words I could type to make readers laugh, offer a little inspira- Thanksgiving! n tion, and help them pause in their hectic, challenging days to capPatrick Hempfing had a 20-year professional career in banking, acture the joy. A friend’s obituary and Jessie’s birthday cake provided counting, and auditing before he became a father at age 44. He is now a the answer.

Let’s face it. Every family has challenges — health issues, financial full-time husband, stay-at-home dad, and writer. Follow Patrick at www. facebook.com/patricklhempfing and on Twitter @PatrickHempfing. His problems, job pressures, relationship turmoils, and parental stresses. first book, “MoMENts: A Dad Holds On,” is available on Amazon.com.

Part of what made the year challenging for me was our family’s move. Unfortunately, our 300-mile move south from Georgia to central Florida motivated my hairline to recede north. Searching the internet, I read, “The Employee Relocation Council notes moving is topped only by divorce and death for life’s stressful events.” Numerous hairs on my head believed this statement. Many of those that didn’t leap off my head prior to crossing the state border turned gray in protest.

As I packed the contents of my desk in preparation for the move, I came across the clipped-out obituary of a wonderful lady, Teri, who passed away in 2013. She courageously fought a long battle with breast cancer. Teri’s touching obituary read, “Her favorite saying during her times of trial was ‘find your joy.’”

Find your joy! How wonderful that Teri chose to say this during the times of trial and not just the happiest times.

I’ve been blessed with many joys, none bigger than the birth of my precious daughter and having the privilege to watch her grow into (customer pick up only) a beautiful young lady. Jessie has provided me with more joys in her OR 12 years than I could ever have imagined, and I never know when she’ll provide the next one.

Last night, we had a dual celebration for Jessie and her grandfather, who have the same birthday. Each year, we buy a single birthday cake, and after we sing “Happy Birthday,” Jessie and her grandfather blow out the candles together. Granddaddy’s been a (delivery only) good sport through the years as he always lets Jessie choose the design and flavor of the cake. He once had a princess cake. This year’s cake featured turquoise roses, pink writing, and sprinkles.

Jessie placed 12 candles in their cake. She and her grandfather stood at the end of the kitchen table as we lit the candles and sang.

Granddaddy bent over in preparation to blow out the candles, but before he knew what happened, Jessie blew out all 12 candles with one powerful gust. Granddaddy didn’t even have a chance to inhale.

The room erupted with laughter. Though part of me felt like I should apologize, I couldn’t stop laughing. I asked, “Should we relight the candles to give Granddaddy a chance to make a wish?”

By Patrick Hempfing

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KIDS FIRST!

Humpback Whales a spellbinding film

By Ranny Levy

Introduction

Humpback Whales incorporates the best that IMAX films have to offer: impossible photography, entertaining music and an instructional narrative that, when combined, creates a positive visceral experience. The musical score is brilliantly constructed to create an emotional connection between viewers and the whales. The song “Best Day of My Life” paired with Morgan pristine video footage of effortless swimming, lunging and breaching invokes a jubilant mood. The haunting yet mesmerizing songs of the hunchback whales are also highlighted.

Narrated by Ewan McGregor, this documentary is educating, motivating and inspiring. The special features are as compelling as the main feature. “The Search” showed the difficulties in finding the humpback whales, leading the production crew to Tonga, Alaska and Hawaii. The photographers’, researchers’ and director’s enthusiasm for an accurate and complete portrayal of the whales is contagious.

Review by Morgan, age 11

You are sitting on a quiet beach watching the waves roll into shore. Suddenly in the middle of the ocean a giant leaps in the air, does a complete 180 degree twirl and splashes back down into the depths of the ocean. As quickly as the ocean frenzy started, it all stops and goes back to calmness. You have just witnessed a humpback whale.

The narrator for this movie is two-time Golden Globe nominee Ewan McGregor who I love and adore. His pace and soothing voice set a calm tone for this film. Stephen Judson’s writing is easy to understand and memorable.

Of course, this is an awesome movie. It is made by the award-winning documentary filmmakers MacGillivray Freemen Films, the same people (Shaun and Greg MacGillivray) who made Everest and National Parks Adventure, which are beautifully executed. I love the amazing places they take us because they always make you want to get more involved in the world around you and spend more time outdoors.

You may not have a humpback whale as a pet because the mothers carry them around for one year, and when they are born, they are 14 feet long. When full grown, they are 55 feet long and, at 50 tons, they will not fit into your swimming pool. If you have trouble walking a dog, well the 10,000-mile migration they take every year might be a bit much for you.

This film takes us all the way from the tropics to Alaska and Antarctica. We get to see the world through the eyes of hump-

The film Humpback Whales allows viewers to get to know some of the biggest and most beautiful creatures on the planet. (Photo courtesy of MacGillivray Freeman and Pacific Life)

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This once-almost-extinct mammal is still only 40 percent of the population it once was. We are making great progress.

There are three countries where whaling is still allowed today: Japan, Norway and Iceland. Additionally, boating accidents and pollution such as trash, fishing nets and other items lead to their demise.

The earth is 71 percent waters and oceans. We should all look after the ocean creatures and our planet. This movie reinforces and reminds us that the humpback whales exist and need our help to survive. Along with kidsfirst.org you should add OneWorldOneOcean.com to your must-see viewing list.

I recommend this film to kids ages 7 through 18, who will find it entertaining, educational and beautiful. All 40 minutes will hold your full attention. Adults will love the epic underwater and aerial photography. I give this film 5 out of 5 Humpback Whale Star Fish. The movie is available on Blu Ray/DVD. n

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back whales and marine biologists. The equivalent of 8,000 hamburgers they eat every day might also be a deal breaker. A goldfish makes a better pet for your home.

Humpback Whales is a beautiful film with stunning photography and educational facts about these majestic creatures that I found fascinating. The birds-eye-views are dynamic; the views are something I have never seen before. You watch the humpbacks as they glide through the water. Jumping in the water and playing with them might be an option your brain can consider, but it’s not going to happen. But I enjoyed watching the beautiful tropical places that this movie takes us to.

The best scene in this film is when a group of whales form a group bubble net. One whale blows bubbles in a spiral motion surrounding the creel, then several whales swim deep into the bottom of the ocean and sing haunting noises while swimming upward. These intelligent creatures of the ocean have learned an easy way to herd fish. They capture them in the bubble net and the whales have a wonderful meal for their whole group.

Listening to all their different songs and how they change them reinforces our grasp of their communication skills and genius. Only the males sing. The movie also has other music with a tropical vibe by Steve Woods and Calum Graham which puts you in the mood to hang out in the ocean with the humpbacks.

Tonga, which is east of Australia, is where whaling was once a prevalent way to make money. They have since stopped and found that tourism brings in more money and saves the whales. In the 1970s, there were only 50 breeding female humpbacks left. Today, the number has grown to the 2,000s.

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Idaho Family Magazine | November 2016 21

Birthday Parties Gender neutral event

Hosting a birthday party for boys and girls

By Pam Molnar

M

y youngest two children, a girl and a boy, have birthdays that are three weeks apart. For their early years, when parties included primarily neighborhood friends, I combined their parties. I knew I had to come up with a theme that satisfied both genders in a range of ages. Here are a few party themes that work well for boys or girls.

Princess and Knights

Every little girl wants a princess party and every little boy needs to release some energy. Encourage your guests to dress up or provide costumes to wear when they arrive.

Games: 1. Cross the Moat – Start with a large board or a few 2 x 4’s and keep getting smaller as the game goes on. You can have your moat over a small swimming pool or simply sitting on the ground.

2. Cup Stacking Castle – Work as a team or as individuals to make the tallest and sturdiest castle. You can limit the amount of cups each team gets or set up guidelines, such as it must have five cups on the base.

3. Find Cinderella’s Shoe – Ask all the girls to take off their shoes and drop one in a bin. The girls will sit on chairs and the boys will have to grab one shoe and see who it belongs to. This is a good way to partner them up for the Cup Stacking Castle.

Craft: Depending on their preference, the kids can decorate their own armor, mask or tiara as found on Oriental Trading.

They also have some great castle crafts.

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Pirates and Mermaids

Similar to the Princess and Knight party, Pirates and Mermaids has something for everyone.

Games: 1. Sink the Ship – Cut a pool noodle into slices to form circular boats and add a toothpick sail. Order bouncing balls in bulk to serve as your cannon balls. The guests serve as pirates and try to sink the ships with cannon balls.

2. Mermaid Race – Players will wear one leg of a pair of panty hose to cover both feet and legs. They will race on their bellies or backs as mermaids on land to see who gets there first.

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Birthday Parties 3. Treasure Map – Find the treasure by following a map with clues. Set up in the party space or get the neighbors involved in a scavenger hunt.

Craft: Use an empty Gatorade bottle to create an I-Spy bottle.

Alternate filling the bottle with small toys and either colored sand or rice.

Neon Party

This is a fun indoor party with black light or outside after sunset.

Games: 1. Neon Glow Tag – Have the kids wear play clothes that can get paint on them. Supply everyone with a clean, white t-shirt. Break the group into teams and arm them with a paintbrush and neon glow paint. Set up boundaries and encourage the guests to splatter as much paint as they can on the other players. For safety reasons, supply the kids with neon sunglasses.

2. Color Shut Down – Purchase several glow sticks and paint the bottom of one of them black. The kids will hold the glow sticks in their hands and try to make color matches by picking sticks from other players without getting the stick with the painted bottom.

3. Glow in the Dark Balloon Volleyball – Cut the end off a glow stick and pour the contents in a latex air-filled balloon. Tie off and have the kids try to keep the balloon from hitting the ground.

Craft: Make glow in the dark play dough or bubbles. Both are made simply by adding neon non-toxic paint to your favorite DIY bubbles or play dough recipe.

Little Baker

Kids love to help in the kitchen, but these cooking projects can be made outside on the patio or inside at the kitchen table.

Activities: 1. Dirt Pudding Cups – Everyone loves getting dirty. Use crushed Oreos (have the kids make them with rolling pins in Ziplock bags) and layer in cups with pre-made chocolate pudding.

Don’t forget to add the gummy worms.

2. Too Pretty to Eat – The guests can decorate white bread with paintbrushes and food coloring. When they are done, toast in toaster or in oven and return them to the kids to spread with jellies, butter or peanut butter.

3. Play with Your Food – Guests can design mosaics with dried, colored beans, colorful fruit pizzas or make cars or boats out of bell peppers. The fun is only limited to their imaginations.

Craft: Keep up the cooking theme by creating food-in-a-jar recipes that the kids can take home. Go through the steps together to fill the jar with the right ingredients, in the right order. Pre-print the cooking instructions on paper for the kids to attach to their jar and take home. n

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. She loves to plan parties for all ages and celebrations. Follow her on Etsy at PamsPartyPrintables.

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