Idaho Family | September 2016

IDAHO

FREE

SEPTEMBER 2016

MAGAZINE

School achievement Eight great tips

Single parents

Stop running on empty

Update your bathroom How to get started

Shine &

Cirque de Soliel Camp Rainbow Gold event

Alli is a kicker at Rocky Mtn. High School in Meridian Want your child’s photo on next month’s cover?

Check inside for details!

IDAHO

Contents September 2016

MAGAZINE

Features Columns Off to camp:

4

16 Manic Mothering: Pokemon Go

Not just any camp

Single parents: Success strategies

9

KIDS FIRST!: Pete’s Dragon

6

School achievement:

19 20 Irene’s Insights:

Avoid mirrors:

23

Bathroom update

Eight tips

Post-birth body

In Each Edition Editor’s Intro A mom’s love

3

22 moMENts:

Daughter mows, keeps toes

Departments 8

Social Skills: Guidance or control?

17 Artkin’s In the Zone: Butterflies

18 Crafts on a Dime:

Common item, cute idea

Family Events 10-15 Calendar: Family friendly activities & events for September & early October!

September 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

Volume 4, Number 9 Publisher Sterling Media Ltd. Editor Gaye Bunderson gayeb@sterlingmedialtd.com 208-639-8301 Sales & Marketing Melva Bade melvab@sterlingmedialtd.com 208-631-3779 Graphic Design Glen Bruderer Contributors Barbara Balkin, Susan Evans, Patrick Hempfing, Sandy 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.

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

EDITOR’S Intro

The power of a mom to keep it all going

I

’ve never been hungry. Aren’t I fortunate? There are many people in the U.S. — children not excepted — who suffer from food insecurity. It’s great that the government helps provide food for children both in school and during the summer months. Those children depend upon the free or low-cost meals to save them from hunger.

I, however, have sometimes questioned why a parent is unable to provide sufficient food for his or her child or children. That’s because when I was growing up, my father worked a well-paying job, so it is a situation totally foreign to me. I never experienced a day in my life when I didn’t have food readily available. My family never went through that at all.

But, actually, that isn’t entirely true. Yes, it’s true for me, but it wasn’t always true for my mother when she was growing up.

I don’t wish to paint Mom’s childhood with a gloomy brush. I actually love the stories of her youth. She didn’t have a privileged childhood, and to me, that’s what makes the stories so intriguing.

I have the deepest and most profound respect for my grandparents — all four of them. Unfortunately, my paternal grandfather died when I was quite young, but the years I was able to spend with my three remaining grandparents make for some of my best memories.

Here, I’m going to speak of my maternal grandparents. When Mom was growing up, her dad mostly worked as a miner, and Mom grew up in some pretty small towns in Idaho, Nevada and Utah — in fact, it wouldn’t really be correct to even call some of the places where she lived “towns” at all. Last summer, we visited a place called Birch Creek — in the Idaho Falls area — where Mom lived as a girl. She went to school in a one-room schoolhouse that is, surprisingly, still standing. My grandfather actually worked an agricultural job at that time, and Mom and her siblings helped cut potatoes for planting.

So back to the times when Grandpa was a miner. His job being out in the hills, that left my grandmother to pretty much carry on as a single parent. She worked and provided for her children, as well as cooked and cleaned and all the other things moms do. She once surprised me by telling me she only finished the 10th grade; up until then, I had no idea my grandmother was not a high school graduate — and I was in my 30s when she told me that.

When Grandpa mined up in the mountains, he was unable to send money to her to provide for the children. He was working and trying to make a living; but in the meantime, it was up to Grandma to be sole provider. And it wasn’t easy.

My mother had four siblings — three sisters and a brother — as well as two half-brothers who sometimes came to stay. She’s told

stories of eating oatmeal for breakfast; then, her mother would slice the thick, leftover oatmeal and fry it for supper. She never tells those stories with self-pity. There was happiness and love in the family. Mom said there was always something to eat, just not much in the way of variety.

One story my mother does tell is actually a little heartrending.

She and her younger sister were sent to the store by my grandmother to buy things on a list Grandma had given them. They went throughout the store putting things that were on the list in a shopping cart. When they got up to the checkout stand, the store owner told them to put it all back because my grandmother was behind in paying the grocery bill.

Now, my mother is no wilting wallflower type. However, she was 12 at the time; and as she and my aunt went throughout the store putting all the groceries back on the shelves, they were crying. It was embarrassing, Mom said. And of course it would be.

When my grandmother heard what happened, she went to the store owner and told him if he had issues with her, to contact her personally but never treat her children like that again. She went on to tell him that if he didn’t have enough courage to confront a grownup, he could at least not humiliate the children. I can only imagine her anger, especially when it came to protecting her kids.

It was enough to make the grocer realize he had been out of line.

Sometimes it’s the hard-time stories that are the most interesting.

I don’t have any hard-time stories from my growing-up years. I could only tell you about how when Mom came home from shopping day, we raided the grocery bags for snacks — and there were lots of them.

The important part of this story is that my mom and her siblings all grew to be wonderful people and to make great lives for themselves, and I think the reason for that was: despite my grandmother’s hardships, she always loved her kids, and they knew it without a doubt.

So I need to say that if people out there are struggling, you have my utmost respect. I just need to remember that not everyone was fortunate enough to grow up like I did. Never lose hope if you’re struggling. Remember that though food is essential, love is powerful.

Love your kids harder than your hardships, and in so doing, give them a childhood that will make them amazing adults. n Note: If you are a single parent yourself — or if you are married and your spouse is deployed or otherwise out of the area due to work — you will benefit from reading contributor Robert Rhodes’ story on single parent strategies in this issue.

Gaye Bunderson, Editor

ID A H O FREE

SEPTEMBER

Children’s Sports Photos Wanted Idaho Family Magazine would love to put your child on our cover. We are currently looking for photos of children engaged in sports. 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. Send the photographs to gayeb@sterlingmedialtd.com.

On the Cover:

Alli is a kicker at Rocky Mtn. High School in Meridian

MAGAZ

INE

School achievem ent Eight grea t tips

SinglE

parents

Stop runn ing on emp ty

UpdatE your ba th

How to get started

room

cirque de ShinE & Soliel

Camp Rain bow Gold event Alli is a kick er at Rock y Mtn. High School in Meridian Want your child’s photo on next mont h’s cover?

Check inside

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

for details!

Idaho Family Magazine | September 2016

2016

No tears...almost

Mom sends son off to very special camp

By Sara Baker

D

on’t judge, please, but I wasn’t too concerned about sending my 6-yearold off on a bus full of people I didn’t know to spend a week at a camp that I had never set foot in.

Let’s establish right now that I love, cherish, and care for him tremendously, but I also knew that sending him to Camp Rainbow Gold for a week was one of the best things I could do for his childhood. As my friend says, “You’re responsible for somebody else’s memories now!” and I wanted to replace some bad ones with some great ones.

Desmond’s childhood thus far hasn’t been what I’d consider normal. You see, Desmond is a cancer survivor.

At the tender, innocent age of 4, he underwent about 6 months’ worth of chemotherapy and about 25 rounds of radiation to fight a cancer diagnosis.

During that time, our family was in fight-or-flight mode. I kept hearing about Camp Rainbow Gold (described as “the best part of cancer” by another cancer mom), but the idea of doing something purely for joy and memorymaking seemed out of reach at that time in our lives.

Two years later, Desmond is doing well and having fun doesn’t seem like such a stretch. Off he went on

the bus, and off I went to the grocery store, knowing that he was about to have a week’s worth of fun and make a lifetime’s worth of memories. Camp Rainbow Gold is a unique organization in that it provides year-round programming and support that focuses on the entire family of the child with cancer, instead of just the cancer kid (including family camp, teen camp, and sibling camp). As that bus pulled away I felt 100 percent certain that he was going to be in the safest, most supportive environment in Idaho. I didn’t even cry!

I didn’t cry when the bus drove off (okay, maybe three tears squeaked out, but no more than that!).

I didn’t cry when I walked into his abnormally quiet (and clean) room.

I didn’t cry when only three of us sat down for dinner that night.

But…I did start to cry, and cry hard, when pictures showed up on Facebook of Mahoney’s Annual Motorcycle Escort. The images of 300 motorcyclists escorting our bus full of warriors into the woods got me in the feelers.

The idea of these tough-looking men and women, none of whom I have ever met, literally lining the streets and surrounding the bus, in honor of our babies, caused my sobbing, wracking tears. For me, they were a physical manifestation of something I couldn’t previously touch — the support we found from our Treasure Valley

Members of the world-famous Cirque du Soleil will perform at the first-ever Shine fundraiser for Camp Rainbow Gold on September 9 at the Boise Centre.

Center for Stepfamily Development Education and support for divorced and remarried families

136 S. Academy Way Eagle

322-2908

1.208.949.0361

www.stepfamilyhelp.com

September 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

3015 W. McMillan Rd. Suite 105 Meridian, Idaho 83646

9-2016

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community during our darkest hour, and the love we’ve been shown in the years after. Our community metaphorically carried us through that terrible time, and those motorcyclists literally surrounded and saluted our children on that hot July day as they headed off for a week of normal kid activity at summer camp. n

Sara and her family will be an honored family on September 9 as Camp Rainbow Gold presents Shine. This will be CRG’s first big fundraiser in the Treasure Valley. They are bringing in performers from the world-famous Cirque du Soleil, having a black tie dinner and dancing to the band, The Strike. Go to camprainbowgold.org for more information or see the accompanying article.

CRG Shine

Cirque du Soleil to bring magic to Boise

By Elizabeth Lizberg

A

sk nearly any Idaho child who has battled cancer about Camp Rainbow Gold and he or she will tell you it’s magic. For the first time, our community will get a taste of that magic from 5 p.m. to midnight Friday, September 9, at the Boise Centre as we bring Shine out of the mountains and into downtown Boise.

Shine will be an evening unlike any other in the Treasure Valley. Not only will dazzling performers from the world-famous Cirque du Soleil take the stage, but the night will feature activities for everyone to get a feel for what it’s like to attend camp in the mountains.

Each year, Camp Rainbow Gold puts on a series of summer camps and family retreats, including camps for children and teens who are battling or have fought cancer, and camps for siblings and families. One of the highlights is always “carnival

night,” where the children are treated to rides, stunts and food. Shine will give attendees an evening where they can play games, enjoy the entertainment, act like kids and — much like our cancer kids — escape from their everyday cares to just have fun.

The term Shine has special meaning for us here at CRG. At camp, it is our way of showing gratitude and giving thanks. We take time every day to “Shine” with each other by standing up and telling others how proud we are of them.

Carnival games, cocktails, dinner and dancing to the band The Strike will highlight the night at the Boise Centre. With your help, we can make downtown Boise “Shine” just a little bit brighter.

For tickets to Shine, go to http://www.shineforcamp.org. For more information about Camp Rainbow Gold or how to support the organization, go to www.camprainbowgold.org. n Elizabeth Lizberg is the executive director of Camp Rainbow Gold.

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Join our team as an associate editor and help us expand our reach to Boise area families.

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MAGAZINE

Idaho Family Magazine | September 2016

Running on empty?

Single parent strategies for success someone close. Here, in the Treasure Valley, there is a support group called Treasure Valley Single Parents which offers information, support, outings, meetups and general opportunities to mingle pproximately 20 years ago I met with others who can relate to the everyday stress a woman in my practice who of single parenting. was a single parent of three boys.

3. Get organized. This subject certainly Her husband had died four years applies to all of us. Not just single parents. Of earlier in a construction accident. I credit course, I believe on any given day, a single parent this mother with teaching me about single juggles many more balls than the average adult. parenthood. She left me with the conviction For that reason, being organized is paramount. that there are few “jobs” in the world that are This involves time and discipline upfront so that more difficult. I still marvel at the strength of ultimately your family runs smoothly. So, focus if this woman, her dedication to her children you can on the daily routines you would like your and the level of exhaustion she endured on children to follow, like mealtimes, school-related behalf of her kids. Running on empty beactivities, chores and bedtimes. Well-set plans for came the norm in her life. If I had asked her Robert Rhodes grocery shopping, meal preparation, housecleanat the time for her advice to single parents, ing and other miscellaneous activities are also imperative. Chilhere is what she would probably have wished me to convey: dren respond best to routine, clear and consistent expectations 1. Take care of yourself. It seems obvious, yet interview and predictability. Fewer wrinkles inside the family will provide any number of single parents and you will find that almost benefits for years to come without exception, they place their children first regardless of 4. Strive for “good enough.” Many single parents try the circumstances. The end result is a parent running on empty to play both parent roles and invariably fall into the “superand on the verge of exhaustion. Instead, do your children a parent” trap. Instead, it is best to recognize the resilience of huge favor and look after yourself. Rest, eat properly, exercise children and to accept that they still can thrive even if you park and, by all means, take time for yourself. And the occasional them occasionally in front of the television or Xbox. I loved it dinner or coffee with friends is critical. A final piece of advice when my mom would throw a frozen dinner my way because is to set up something to look forward to, however modest. she was otherwise preoccupied. I certainly did not suffer. So, Looking forward to something lifts the spirits and keeps us adjust expectations and give yourself a break. Pick the impormoving forward. tant aspects of parenting you are not willing to give up and 2. Reach out for help. Most single parents are either permit yourself to allow the lesser things to slide. too tired or too embarrassed to ask for help. It is this tireless 5. No guilt. Guilt is so prominent among single parents that determination which enables them to get through each day, it seems nearly impossible to avoid. And why should you avoid yet we know that exhaustion and isolation will eventually take it? Because it undermines effective parenting more than any its toll. What is of utmost importance is to remember that you other emotion. Feeling guilt for raising your children without are not alone. There are hundreds of single parents in the two parents is natural. But children are resilient, forgiving, exact same boat. They also long for resources which will help strong and flexible; they will be okay. Instead, focus on the with transportation, childcare or simply a morale boost from

By Robert Rhodes

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strength you bring to your family and all the warmth, joy and happiness that comes with it.

6. Do not expect the children to have empathy. Certainly time is on your hands when it comes to your children being able to empathize with you. Unfortunately that will be when your children are in their 20’s and older, NOT 18 years old or younger. I have noticed over the years that single parents long for their children to understand and appreciate the lengths they go to each day on behalf of the family. When it is not forthcoming, the parent becomes irritated and frustrated. Children are by nature egocentric. In their mind the world revolves around them. So for the moment, count on them meeting you at the door each day with demanding needs — even upon your return home from a stressful day at work. And do not count on them going the extra mile around the house to make your day go smoother.

Single parenting is no doubt stressful, demanding and exhausting. There is no way around it. It is also, however, a noble mission with great rewards. As the woman from my practice said, “Yes it’s hard, but it’s totally worth it.” And, one day, your children will look back with appreciation and thank you for providing a healthy, happy and loving home. n

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

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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.

Idaho Family Magazine | September 2016

Social Skills

Provide guidance to your kids, not control

By Susan Evans

B

Susan Evans owns Social Essence, an Eagle-based company serving the Treasure Valley. She offers youth culture and adult culture programs designed to help participants improve their professional and personal lives.

She may be reached at susan@socialessence.com, 631-0576, or www. socialessence.com.

9-2016

ack in school and it is already a whirlwind!

Johnnie has soccer every day, guitar on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s. Becca is in cheer. She also takes piano twice a week and practices every day. Need I say more? Oh, and we have not even mentioned academic work.

On weekends the family goes up skiing or works around the house.

Sound familiar?

Susan Evans And then there are the parents — hovering, directing, driving, living…planning to attain the dream. But who’s dream? You have seen those parents; you might even be one.

Let’s face it. Even though it’s sensible to plan for our children’s future, we aren’t in complete control. When I was growing up, parents worried about their children but perhaps did not push them quite enough. Today’s parents worry that if their children aren’t superstars upon entering elementary school, they won’t get into a good college or find a good job.

So, they push too hard.

Life is challenging, especially so in today’s modern non-stop lifestyle. I recognize that there is a difference between overparenting and over-scheduling. However, both can be harmful to your child’s development and sense of well-being.

Helicopter and Tiger are classic terms for over-parenting. Many parents mistake their own passions and un-lived dreams for their child’s ideal future. The key factor, noted in numerous studies, is that the more a mother or father saw of themselves in their child, the more likely they were to want the child to live their own unrequited ambitions.

If your child isn’t excited by the path toward which you are nudging him or her, ask yourself, “Is my child more passionate about something else, something I could — and should — encourage instead? Is there a way I could fulfill my own thwarted ambitions even now, e.g., writing a book, furthering my education, returning to horseback riding lessons?”

Regardless of what we see in the movies, we cannot see into the future. Less than perfect people with regular credentials wind up with fame and fortune due to ingenuity and hard work. On the other hand, many graduates of Ivy League colleges either never reach their full potential or have good-paying jobs they hate. This is especially common when parents impose their dreams on children whose passions and interests don’t match their own hopes and dreams.

Frantic outbursts and a harried look can also simply be over-scheduling. Both you and your child need downtime, time off parenting for you and time off performing for your child. Take a renewed focus on your role as a parent, seeing yourself as a mentor rather than a constant coach. You will gain yourself some more time to work on the things that mean a lot to you (besides your child!), as well as giving your child more breathing space to develop his or her own destiny.

Find the right balance to help your child develop competence in select areas without the burnout. With competence and confidence, your child has the opportunity to become accomplished and successful as he or she matures, leading to greater self-esteem and social well-being.

And never, ever forget that regular unsupervised play is an essential part of childhood! n

September 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Disney Studios

KIDS FIRST!

Pete’s Dragon blends action and friendship

By Ranny Levy

Introduction

This remake of Pete’s Dragon follows the adventures of an orphaned boy named Pete and his best friend Elliot, who just so happens to be a dragon. Starring Bryce Dallas Howard, Robert Redford, Oakes Fegley and more, this film truly appeals to a youth and family audience and makes a perfect family movie.

P

Review by Benjamin, age 11 ete’s Dragon is a great film that perfectly blends emotion and action in a heartwarming adventure of friendship

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

and bravery. Directed by David Lowery, Pete’s Dragon follows Pete (Oakes Fegley), a young boy who, after a car accident, survives in the woods for six years with the help of his friend Elliot, a dragon. When a forest ranger named Grace (Bryce Dallas Howard) finds Pete, he reenters society and must try to find a way to fit in while also trying to protect Elliot.

I like most of the characters in this film, but my favorite character is Elliot the dragon because he always looks after Pete and always does what’s best for him. The film and the visual effects make Elliot into a character I really care about. He’s also funny and makes me laugh several times throughout the movie.

I love the cinematography in Pete’s Dragon, especially some of the breathtaking, massive shots of the forest where Elliot and Pete live. The special effects in this film are fantastic, too. Instead of using animation to create Elliot like in the original, he is entirely in CGI (computer-generated imagery) and the results look fantastically lifelike. I recommend you see this in 3D, especially for the flight sequences. Seeing Pete and Elliot glide through the mountains is very cool.

This film really surprised me because, as a remake it borrows

almost nothing from its source material. I have to give credit to director David Lowery for creating this new story and world.

Most of the cast deliver great performances. Oakes Fegley delivers a quite believable Pete, especially considering this is one of his first roles and his co-star wasn’t there during much of the filming. The excellent Robert Redford appears in the film as Grace’s dad. He says he once saw a dragon in the woods but Grace never believed him. I really like his character.

He is kind and reminds his daughter of the importance of seeing more magic in life.

I like this film because, unlike some other recent Disney remakes, it doesn’t try to be darker than the original but creates a new story for a younger generation.

I recommend Pete’s Dragon for ages 5 to 12 based on the scenes of peril. There are two or three that could scare younger viewers. Pete’s Dragon will take you on an emotional journey filled with humor, adventure and magic. I give this film 4 out of 5 stars. n

Idaho Family Magazine | September 2016

IDAHO

MAGAZINE

CALENDAR

Nampa Civic Center 2016-2017 Performing Arts Series

Season tickets are now on sale for the upcoming season of great performances at the Nampa Civic Center. Performances include humorist Patrick McManus, the famed Moscow Ballet, Hotel California (based on music by The Eagles), American Idol winner Taylor Hicks, and more. For a complete listing of shows, or to purchase tickets, go to nampaciviccenter.com or call 468-5555.

Teen After-School Snacks September 6

Middle and high school-age youngsters are invited to come make their own individually layered “dippity chip dip” from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, September 6, at Eagle Public Library. On September 13, teens may make their own Teen Bath Bomb Fizzies. The library also holds movie matinees for all ages, fun Saturday events for kids, and much more. Go to eaglepubliclibrary.org.

BSU Game Day Fun Pass at Pinz

Homeschool Meetup

Watch every Bronco football game on 10 big screens at Pinz in Meridian while kids get a good deal on fun, and families get specials on pizzas. For more information, go to pinzbowlingidaho.com.

September 6

Come meet other homeschool families from 2 to 3 p.m.

Tuesday, September 6, at the Cherry Lane branch of the Meridian library. There will be board games, educational toys and craft supplies available on a rotating basis.

Come enjoy some fun and fellowship. (Meets other days of the month as well. Go to mld.org for more information.)

Kids Night Out at the Y

The Caldwell, West and Downtown YMCAs offer a Kids Night Out at regular times throughout the month. There is a fee for the night of games, swimming, pizza and a movie; space is limited, and pre-registration is required. Go to http://www.ymcatvidaho.org/program/ kids-night-out/.

Reading at the Refuge 1st & 3rd Mondays

Preschoolers, kindergartners and their families are invited to Reading at the Refuge every first and third Monday, with the exception of federal holidays, at 10 a.m. and repeating at 2 p.m. at the Deer Flat Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center near Lake Lowell in Nampa. There will be a wildlife-related story, craft-making, and exploring the Visitor Center and trails at the refuge. For more information, go to fws.gov/deerflat, email deerflat@fws.gov or call 467-9278.

Kindermusik classes Mondays

Kindermusik at Dunkley Music is enrolling students ages 0-7 for music classes. Attend a free preview class and experience the delight of making music together while opening doors to creativity, exploration, friendship and joy in learning. Register for the preview class at dunkleymusic. kindermusik.com, or by calling the store at 342-5549 and asking for Jane. Classes are available at 10 a.m. Mondays. Dunkley Music is located at 3410 N. Eagle Rd., Ste. 150, in Meridian.

Gazebo Concert Series September 29

The Gazebo Concert Series is a free concert presented by Eagle Parks & Recreation and Eagle’s Art Commission. It’s held the last Thursday of every month through September beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Heritage Park, 185 E. State St. Attendees should bring a chair or a blanket to sit on. They may also bring their own picnic basket or buy food from local businesses. For more information, go to cityofeagle.org, call 489-8763 or email parks@cityofeagle.org.

10 September 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

September 6

Inklings

Inklings is a club for tweens who want to write. Come work on creative writing projects and improve your writing skills from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday, September 6, at the Cherry Lane branch of the Meridian library. Inklings meets the first Tuesday of each month and is for youngsters ages 9-12. A Teen Creative Writing Workshop meets from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month and is for youngsters 13-18.

1st Wednesday Patio Party in Eagle September 7

The last Patio Party of the season is set for 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 7, at the North Channel Center located just off Eagle Road at Highway 44, 600 S. Rivershore Ln. There will be live music, free wine tastings, prize give-aways, and showings of original artwork. The event is child-friendly.

Slumber Party Storytime September 7

Put on your coziest pajamas and come enjoy a fun-filled evening storytime with milk and cookies from 7 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 7, at the Silverstone branch of the Meridian library. (This special storytime is held other days of the month as well. Go to mld.org.)

School-Age Fun: Act Out with the Bard!

September 8

Children are welcome to enjoy a series of fun games and propmaking focused on Shakespeare’s plays, including “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “Romeo and Juliet,” from 4 to 5 p.m. Thursday, September 8, at the main branch of Boise Public Library. Activities will include making fake swords, fairy accessories and playing around with Shakespearian insults. Go to boisepubliclibrary.org.

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of Events

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

Tween STEAM Program September 8

Kids ages 8-12 are invited to the Nampa Public Library from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month to explore, create and build new things. Come join the fun on September 8. For more information, contact Ashley Garmire at 468-5895.

Movies Under the Stars September 9

Families may enjoy a free, fun-filled evening of kids’ activities and great films in Boise. The fun begins at 7 p.m. with free games for kids provided by the Boise Parks & Recreation Mobile Recreation Van. Movies then begin at dusk. The movie for September 9 is “Zootopia,” and it will be shown at Hobble Creek Park. Park address and other information are available at parks.cityofboise.org/activities,-classes-andsports/movies-under-the-stars. Boise Parks & Rec has many activities, classes and sports for people of all ages. Go to parks.cityofboise.org.

Stargazing

Friday & Saturday nights

The Bruneau Sand Dunes holds stargazing programs on Friday and Saturday nights beginning at 7 in the Bruneau Dunes Observatory.

Come see the night sky as you’ve never seen it before on September 9 and other nights throughout the month. For more information and to confirm that evening’s program, call 366-7919.

Shine: An Evening of Awe and Delight September 9

Helping to benefit Camp Rainbow Gold, this evening of elegant black tie cocktails and dinner will be held from 5 p.m. to midnight Friday, September 9, at Boise Centre, 850 W. Front St. Highlights include Cirque de Soleil performers and a live band called The Strike. Tickets are $200 each. Children may attend. For tickets, go to shineforcamp.org.

Art in the Park September 9-10

Now marking its 62nd year, Boise Art Museum’s Art in the Park is set for 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, September 9-10, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, September 11, in Julia Davis Park. More than 250 artists will display and sell their works throughout the 3-day event, and there will be live entertainment, an array of food, and special activities for kids. Go to boiseartmuseum.org.

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Air Force Appreciation Day September 9-10

The City of Mountain Home will express its appreciation for Mountain Home Air Force Base by bringing people together for a parade, eats, treats and music during the weekend of September 9-10. Go to mountainhomechamber.com.

Clearance Book Sale September 9&10

Boise Public Library is clearing its shelves to make room for new books and will hold a two-day clearance book sale at its main branch from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, September 9, and Saturday, September 10. There will be books for all ages, each of them available for only 50 cents. Go to boisepubliclibrary.org.

FormFest 2016 Import Car Show September 10

This free (for spectators), family-friendly event is back for the third year and is set for 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, September 10, at Scentsy Commons Meridian, 2701 E. Pine Ave. Come check out some of the more than 300 wildest import cars from all across the Pacific Northwest. Highlights include loudest exhaust and the fastest lap contest. There will also be 50 sponsor booths, as well as food, drinks, lots of shade, and fun. Go to formfestcarshow.com.

Courageous Kids Climbing at the Downtown Y September 10

Courageous Kids Climbing will provide a free opportunity for children with special needs to learn how to ascend a climbing wall from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, September 10, at the Downtown Family YMCA, 1050 W. State St. in Boise. Experts will be on hand to help the children and ensure their safety, and no child is pushed beyond his or her comfort level. For more information, email JeffReichmann@cs.com or visit Courageous Kids Climbing on Facebook.

Family Crafternoon September 10

The whole family is invited to “drop in and craft” at the Cherry Lane branch of the Meridian library from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, September 10. There will be cutting, gluing, designing and creating. The library has the craft supplies; families supply the imagination. (Crafternoon is held on other days of the month. Go to mld.org for more details.)

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CALENDAR of Events

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Mighty Girl Book Club

Nampa Public Library Storytimes

A book club for Mighty Girls around ages 11-14 who want to read books featuring strong female characters will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, September 10, at the Silverstone branch of the Meridian library. Why are Mighty Girl books important? Strong female role models are essential for young girls, and some of the greatest ones can be found in literature. Inspiring female characters teach girls selfconfidence, independence and courage. Sign up online at mld.org or at the front desk of the Silverstone branch of the library.

Preschool Storytimes will be held from 10:15 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays, September 14, 21 and 28, and Fridays, September 16, 23 and 30. Baby & Toddler Storytimes will take place from 10:15 to 11 a.m. Thursdays, September 15, 22 and 29. Sensory Storytimes are set for 3:45 to 4:30 p.m. Mondays, September 12 and 26. PreTween STEAM Storytime, for kids ages 5-7, is scheduled for 4 to 5 p.m. Monday, September 19.

September 10

Camp Sam USA September 10-13

Camp Sam USA is a nonprofit organization that works with adults 18 and older with cognitive disabilities. This year, the organization will present its first Overnight Summer Camp September 10-13 at Camp Pinewood in McCall. Activities include sports, music, movies, arts and crafts, hikes, dancing and more. Cost is $400 for the whole week. Registration is now open, but there are a limited number of spaces available. For more information, or to register online, go to campsamusa.org. You may also email info@campsamusa.org.

Intro to Geologic Mapping September 11

Go to the Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, September 11, for an introduction to geologic mapping that includes the principles of geology, rock unit identification and description, and a moderate hike to Castle Rock while mapping the local geology of the area.

The program for adults and mature youth will be facilitated by experts from Boise State, and those who plan to attend should bring snacks and water, wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. Cost is $5 for non-members and free for members. The museum is located at 2455 Old Penitentiary Rd. in Boise. Go to idahomuseum.org or call 571-5720.

September 14, 16, 21, 23, 28 & 30

Board Game Night September 15

Nampa Public Library will hold Board Game Night from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, September 15. Everyone is welcome to bring their own games to play or come and try some of the more than 20 games the library has on hand. There is a wide variety to choose from, so there is definitely “something for everyone.” The event is free and open to all ages, and no library card is required. Go to the events calendar at nampalibrary.org or call 468-4472.

Hyde Park Street Fair September 16-18

The 37th Annual Hyde Park Street Fair in Camel’s Back Park is set for 4 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, September 16; 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, September 17; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, September 18. The event features vendor booths, kids’ activities, live music, exotic foods, cold beer, community entertainers, and a wine garden. The park is located at 13th and Heron streets in Boise’s North End. Go to http://www.northendboise. org/hyde-park-street-fair-2016.

32nd Annual Harvest Classic Fun Run ‘16 September 17

This annual event presented by the Nampa Rec Center features an 8K run or wheelchair race, 2-mile run or walk, 1-mile competitive race, food, prizes, entertainment, vendor booths and a school competition. This year’s event will be held Saturday, September 17. For cost and other information, or to register, go to http://www. nampaparksandrecreation.org/HarvestClassic. aspx.

Last Splash Weekends September 11-12 & September 17-18

The last days of water-filled fun at Roaring Springs for 2016 will take place on two different weekends: Saturday and Sunday, September 11-12 and September 17-18. Go to roaringsprings.com.

Making Education an Affordable Reality September 14

Research shows that students who have a college savings account are seven times more likely to enroll and complete a form of higher education regardless of amount saved. Attend a program about Idaho’s Section 529 Plan, designed to help individuals and families save for college in a tax-advantaged way, from 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, September 14, at the main branch of Boise Public Library. The program is free, and no registration is required. Go to boisepubliclibrary.org.

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September 17

Fun at the Farm

Did you know the City of Boise owns a farm? Attend the WaterShed Weekend at the Twenty Mile South Farm to learn how the city uses “solids” from toilet flushes. Take a bus tour of the 4,200-acre farm, visit the first net-zero commercial facility in Idaho, check out the farm equipment, and play some fun fall carnival games. It all starts at 10 a.m.

Saturday, September 17, at 9560 W. Nicholson Rd. in Kuna. (Please note, this event is not taking place at the Boise WaterShed this month.)

The event is free, but pre-registration is required by September 14 by calling 608-7300.

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Celebrate Women’s Fitness September 17

A 5K fun run, walk or stroll along the Boise River for women and girls of all ages will start at Merrill Park in Eagle at 9 a.m. Saturday, September 17. Women are invited to sign up with their sister, daughter, mother, grandmother or girlfriend. Breakfast foods and a prize drawing will await participants at the finish line (also at Merrill Park). Cost is $24.

Register online at www.celebratewf.com.

Felons and Fords at the Old Idaho Penitentiary September 17

More than 100 Fords — from Model Ts to Mustangs — will be on display at the Old Idaho Penitentiary from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, September 17. Admission is $6 for adults, $4 for seniors, and $3 for children 6-12.

Rock ‘N Brews & BBQ Festival September 17

This inaugural state BBQ competition and festival day, officially sanctioned by the Kansas City BBQ Society, is set for 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday, September 17, at Ford Idaho Center in Nampa. The state BBQ champ will be crowned at the end. Admission to the event and parking are free, but there is a $30 cost for beer tasting tickets for 21 and over. The event is child-friendly. Go to http://www.rocknbrewsandbbq. com/.

Right on Target September 17

Nampa Public Library, in partnership with the Nampa Target Store, holds a special program each month called Right on Target. It is a full-family opportunity for caregivers and/or therapists of patrons with special needs. The program focuses on the cognitive levels of preschool through second grade with stories, songs and activities. The September program will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, September 17.

For more information, call Marcia at 468-5821.

Rock Party – Geology Fun September 18

The Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology will hold its annual Rock Party from noon to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, September 18, at the museum, located at 2455 Old Penitentiary Rd. in Boise. There will be activity stations for kids, covering Idaho mining history, fossils and geology. Each child takes home a certificate and a free rock. There will also be hillside geology hikes, gold panning, museum mini-tours, and more. Cost is $4 for adults, $2 for kids ages 5-17, and free for ages 4 and younger and for members. There is a gift shop, and food will be available. For more information, go to idahomuseum.org or call Shirley at 283-3186.

(Supported by a grant from the Idaho Humanities Council.)

Old Time Farm Days September 18

A day of old-fashioned fun for the whole family is set for noon to 4 p.m.

Sunday, September 18, at the Hidden Springs Barn (off West Farm Court and located along Dry Creek in the Hidden Springs community).

Visit a blacksmith as he works, tour the original farmstead, walk through an authentic sheep wagon, churn butter, pan for gold, or visit with farm animals in the petting area. In addition to a variety of historical

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demonstrations, there will be live music, crafts, games and local artisans selling goods. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from the Basque Market or the Dry Creek Mercantile. Price of admission is $3 per person, with kids 4 and under free. Go to drycreekhistory.org.

Family Food Crafts and Movies September 19

Watch “Frozen” and make a marshmallow snowman from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, September 19, at the Cherry Lane branch of the Meridian library. Come enjoy a fun movie, with a related craft and food.

Bring a snack and a friend, and be ready to have a good time. The event is held every third Monday of the month.

Getting the Most Out of Your Big Game September 21

Learn how to get the most from the deer, antelope, elk or moose you bring home this hunting season during a program with cookbook author Hank Shaw from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 21, at the main branch of Boise Public Library. Go to boisepubliclibrary.org.

Family-Friendly Upcycle Project September 21

Join Goodwill at the Cherry Lane branch of the Meridian library from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 21, to take part in familyfriendly projects that will turn everyday Goodwill thrift store items into new and creative crafts. Goodwill will provide recycled t-shirts that will be upcycled into bracelets and belts — a great earth-friendly way to accessorize for fall. Go to mld.org.

Boise Film Festival September 22-25

The City of Trees will become the City of Film during the second annual Boise Film Festival September 22-25. Showcasing films from around the world to bring international and local filmmakers together with Treasure Valley businesses, the festival aims to shine a spotlight on the Treasure Valley and all of Idaho for its value as a film production destination. Go to boisefilmfestival.org.

Random Fandom September 23

This event allows adults to enjoy games, movies and more from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Friday, September 23, at the main branch of Boise Public Library. If you are a Whovian, Potterhead, Trekkie, Tolkeinite, Tribute, Whedonite, or Sherlockian, this program is for you. Go to boisepubliclibrary.org.

FitOne Race September 24

This annual event for the entire family will take place Saturday, September 24, and feature a 5K, 10K, and half marathon. There is also a FitOne Expo in conjunction with the event which will take place September 22-23 (http://fitoneboise.org/expo). This a great way to get all family members involved in getting and staying fit and active. For costs and more information, or to register, go to FitOneBoise.org.

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CALENDAR of Events Model Trains in the Park September 24

A model train display will be on view during the “Museum Comes to Life” festival sponsored by the Idaho State Historical Society. The model trains may be viewed from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, September 24, in Julia Davis Park (weather permitting). The Rocky Mountain Hi-Railers will present their 16’ x 25’ model railroad layout called “Lookout Junction.” The event is free to all. Go to http://www. rockymountainhirailers.com/.

Over the Edge September 24

Boise Valley Habitat for Humanity is planning its first annual Over the Edge event from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, September 24, at the US Bank Building on Capitol Boulevard in downtown Boise. This unique fundraiser offers participants a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to rappel down the side of the 20-story building. The first 75 people to raise $1,000 for Boise Valley Habitat for Humanity will go Over the Edge.

All of the money raised will be used to build affordable homes in Ada County. For more information and to register, go to https://firstgiving. com/bvhfh/over-the-edge.

Sales for Joy September 24

Participate in the Ride for Joy Therapeutic Riding Program’s inaugural garage sale and bazaar from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, September 24, at The Pursuit, 6151 N. Discovery Way in Boise. For $30, purchase a space

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to sell your goods, or stop by and shop. Proceeds benefit Ride for Joy’s work to help children with disabilities or veterans suffering from any type of conflict-related injury. For more details, or to set up a vending area, contact Christi Avery at christiavery@rideforjoy.org.

Touch-A-Truck September 24

This all-day event is set for September 24 at Bronco Stadium in Boise. Touch-A-Truck will offer children a hands-on opportunity to explore trucks of all types and to meet the people who build, protect and serve the Treasure Valley. Trucks on display will include construction trucks, emergency vehicles, vintage trucks, and more. The children will be invited to creatively explore each of them. The event is brought to the community by the Junior League of Boise. Go to www.jlboise.com.

Bill Gaither and the Gaither Vocal Band September 29

Multi-Grammy winner Bill Gaither will host an evening of music, laughter and encouragement beginning at 7 p.m. Thursday, September 29, at the Morrison Center on the Boise State campus. Tickets range from $28.50 to $38.50 and $69.50. Go to http://mc.boisestate.edu/events.

Mystical Arts of Tibet September 26 & 30

Caldwell Fine Arts will kick off its 2016-17 season with a performance from the monks of Drepung Loseling Monestary at 7 p.m. Friday, September 30, in Jewett Auditorium on the College of Idaho campus. The monks will play Tibetan musical instruments such as the 10-foot-long dungchen horn. The performance will also be highlighted by dance and chanting. Adult tickets range from $20 to $35, and student tickets are $10 up to $25. Activities are also set for September 26, when the monks will create a colorful mandala. Tickets, video clips, directions and more information are available at www. caldwellfinearts.org, or tickets may be ordered over the phone at 459-5275. Caldwell Fine Arts programs are some of the best entertainment values in the valley.

14 September 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

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See Spot Walk

Idaho Health & Fitness Fair

The Idaho Humane Society will host its annual See Spot Walk event from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, October 1, in Julia Davis Park. Bring your dog and enjoy the mile-long walk; there will also be games, food, vendors, and dog contests. There are various fees to participate, depending on whether participants pay individually or are part of a team; also, entry fees vary for younger participants. Go to www. seespotwalk.org. The event is family-friendly, and all funds raised go toward helping abandoned, stray, sick, injured and abused animals.

The 24th Annual Idaho Health & Fitness Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, October 8, and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, October 9, at Expo Idaho, 5610 Glenwood in Boise. The Health Fair welcomes all ages to the free, funfilled and educational event that features the latest trends on nutrition, weight loss, skin care, senior services and more.

October 1

Idaho City Days October 1-2

Superhero 5K October 9

The 3rd Annual Superhero 5K/1 mile, to benefit Camp Rainbow Gold’s support of Idaho children diagnosed with cancer, is set to begin at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, October 9, at Expo Idaho. Cost is $20 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. Register at BlueCircleSports.com. For more information, go to http://ibleventsinc.com/events/superhero5k.

Marriage Renovation October 20-23

A new program of Renovation Group Ministries called Marriage Renovation will be held October 2023. Cost is $250. More information will be available at renovationgroupministries.org; or contact Director Sharon Prosch at 631-5841, info@renovationgroupministries.org or sharon.prosch@teenrenovation.org.

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Idaho City Days: A Weekend of Fun Celebrating Community Past Present and Future will be held October 1-2 in the mountain community just 45 miles from Boise up Highway 21. Many events are planned, including a Fun Run, inflatables, carnival-style games, a parade (1 p.m. on Saturday), community barbecue, beer garden, street dance, and a vendor row with crafters, antique dealers, and food and beverage sellers. Go to www.idahocitychamber.org.

October 8 & 9

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Idaho Family Magazine | September 2016 15

Manic Mothering

The upside of summer’s Pokémon Go craze

By Beth Markley

I

f you’ve been paying attention the past couple of months, you’ve probably heard a cacophony of opinions about Pokémon Go. Well actually, you’ve probably mostly heard people griping about how stupid it is that Beth Markley someone put a snipe hunt into a phone app and suddenly everyone’s flocking to city parks like Columbus just discovered a “New World.”

Among the Poké-bashers is Juan Buis of The Next Web, who says everyone should delete Pokémon Go from their phones right now, for their own good.

Not because the apps could give the developer or anyone who hacks them access to your whole Google footprint. It’s not because the game’s glitchy and there’s that ping-y music that will trigger an eye twitch in about 37 seconds. Nope. It’s not because people are catching Pokémon in places like cemeteries and hospitals and memorials where it’s really kind of grossly inappropriate to be playing a game of any sort. Nuh uh.

Nope. Juan wants us to stop playing Pokémon Go right now, because it is a COLOSSAL WASTE OF TIME. We’re better off spending that time doing something productive.

Wait, a minute … you mean to tell me my kids dragged themselves away from their quadratic equations and bonsai pruning to play a game that has no freak-

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ing point? You’re saying they’ve forgone their studies in ancient Sanskrit and their practice in Thai Chi for NOTHING? Well, dangit.

I kid. Because, you know what else involves no skill, Juan?

Pretty much anything and everything my kids did with their free time this summer.

For weeks, each of these sweet, lazy bums has been rolling out of bed at noon to complain that there aren’t any frozen burritos to heat up for breakfast and wonder why we don’t have any cereal bowls in the cupboard.

News flash: We have no clean cereal bowls because they’re all in my kids’ bedrooms with spoons stuck to the dehydrated sugar-milk residue in the bottom.

I know, Juan! We live like pigs.

I don’t know about anyone else, but my kids take the summer slide fairly seriously.

The minute that last bell at school rings and they’re throwing papers and binders and crap in the air as they burst through the doors like actors in some music video, my boys have pretty much forgotten not only everything they learned that year, but just about everything else, too.

Heck, we’re past the summer recess now, and I’m not sure they’re able to form actual words anymore, much less complete sentences. All I get in response to a query is a series of grunts and hand signals.

By the beginning of the new school year, we find ourselves trying to load a couple globs of amorphous goo onto the school bus.

You ever try putting pants on amorphous goo, Juan? Huh? Here’s the thing, we have a little history with Pokémon around here and it’s good. Although I personally want to hack my way out of the room with a hatchet whenever I hear that damn music, I have a lot to be grateful for as a parent.

Jack’s Nintendo DS was the first thing he ever saved for to purchase (nearly) on his own, and it was for love of Pokémon.

There was a series of Pokémon books from which my kids learned to read, and plush Pokémon toys they dragged to bed with them. We had an electronic Pikachu doll that occasionally had to go into timeout (i.e., have the batteries removed) when Mom or Dad couldn’t take the noise, but

16 September 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

was otherwise a fairly regular companion of a certain kindergartener.

Our kids learned socialization skills and sharing — aka bartering and blackmailing — trading Pokémon trading cards. When I started working from home, Pokémon videos were occasional babysitters.

Over the years, Pokémon kind of faded in their estimation, until recently, when Colin told me he had to take the dog for a walk, having recently come into the possession of a “10k egg” that needed hatching. It was our first sign he might not actually dissolve into a puddle before school started again, and I hugged him fiercely and let him outside.

FRESH AIR for the boy, Juan. It was like Christmas in July.

Then more miracles happened: his brother downloaded the app. Suddenly both kids started making regular appearances awake and fully dressed before noon to go on Pokémon hunts. With EACH OTHER. What kind of crazy voodoo was this?

I had to find out.

Today’s run featured Pokemon intervals.

Made for a somewhat slower pace …. pic. twitter.com/xSyupDoVmD Beth Markley (@bethmarkley) July 13, 2016 Now I’m one of the throng, Juan. I’m level 15, I know where the neighborhood pokéstops are, and my highest CP Pokémon is a Flareon at 752. It’s not as much as some, but enough for one of my kid’s friends to exclaim recently “your mom’s kicking my butt, Jack.”

That’s what’s really going on. There’s a new point of contact between a 40something parent and her teens, and between each of them and the other.

There are actual conversations and long walks on hot summer evenings, and a dog that’s insanely happy about dragging someone along on a leash two or three times a day.

Connection. That doesn’t take a lot of skill either, but I’ll take it. We can save the Sanskrit studies for some other time. 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.

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Idaho Family Magazine | September 2016 17

CRAFTS On A Dime

Make cute decoration with a common item

By Samantha Stillman

I

f you are looking for a cute, cheap way to decorate for a party or a child’s room, then look no further! I saw this while browsing the internet one day, and as I had some brown paper bags, I decided to give it a try. If you use some colored gift bags, this could really give a room an awesome pop of color. I, personally, like the brown paper and plan on using it around Christmas time as it gives that vintage/antiquated look. At roughly $2 for a pack of 100 bags, this craft costs pennies at most. n

1

3 Supplies needed: Picture 1 Paper bags

(lunch bags-11, giant bags-7)) Glue – Hot glue or craft glue

Scissors

2 4

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

Instructions:

1. Gather your paper bags and glue them together using the “T” design as shown. Be sure that the bags are all facing the same direction. Allow time for the glue to dry or harden. I used craft glue and allowed it to dry overnight under a large, heavy book.

Picture 2 2. Once it is dried, cut the two corners off at the opening of the bags. As you open the star, you Samantha Stillman may have to gently slide your finger and pry the bag edges apart if any glue caused them to stick.

Picture 3 3. Place another “T” design of hot glue on one side of the bags. Slowly open the star shape and press the two sides together for a few seconds to allow the glue to cool. If you have any clear tape, you can use that instead to join the sides as I did. Now it is ready to hang. Enjoy!

Pictures 4 and 5

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Eight tips

Helping your child be successful in school ne of the extraordinary gifts of living in America is the right to a free education.

School is the ticket to success, we are taught. And so we send our precious children off to the land of learning. The only problem is that while school is challenging and fun for one student, it is a nightmare for another. Children with learning labels drag anchors behind them as they enter the Sandy McDaniel sea of academia. Some children have language barriers. For many children there is the fear of not fitting in, making friends or otherwise feeling disconnected to other children. Having taught school, I can tell you that parents play an extraordinary part in the success of a child. Here are some tips to consider: LISTEN TO YOUR CHILD: If you ask a child if he/she is afraid or worried about something, LISTEN to the answer. The child answers, “A little.” Instead of going off on a tirade about how it is going to be okay, listing YOUR reasons why it will be so, say, “Tell me one thing that feels a little scary.” Then ask the child what could be done to make that easier. For example: “I don’t have friends in this class.” Instead of being a prophet and saying that friends will be made, ask, “Would you like to have a play date with a classmate?” or “Is there someone who likes the same things you do?” Help the child to build a bridge.

NOTICE UNUSUAL BEHAVIOR: If your child is suddenly quiet, doesn’t want to go to school, has sudden stomach aches, cries easily or seems angry, those are red flags that something isn’t okay at school. In the 54 years I’ve been working with children/families, I often ask, “If you could use a magic wand to change one thing about school, what would it be?” The trick is to keep digging by asking questions rather than jumping to solutions. “Billy!” the child answers, so you respond, “What would you change about Billy?” If the child says, “Everything,” say, “Give me one thing.” Let’s say the answer is that Billy bothers him on the playground. Ask for an idea of what to do to feel safe (stay away from him, find a friend to be with, tell the teacher, etc.) Then I would email the teacher informing him/her of the situation.

EXPECT YOUR CHILD TO BE KIND: Many years ago, my son Scott was unkind to a kid at school. The next day I went to school with Scott, telling him, “We have a rule in our home that we are kind. You broke that rule, so I am going to keep you company today.” At the end of the first hour, Scott offered, “Mom, I promise I won’t be unkind to anyone. Would you please go home now?” Working as a consultant to schools, I called a parent to say that bullying was happening at school. That mother said to her son, “The school says you are being a bully at school.” She returned to the phone, “He says he is not.” It is NOT okay to be unkind to another person!

Parents who don’t enforce kindness often find themselves standing before a judge as their precious child is sentenced.

ESTABLISH A ROUTINE: Bedtime and A.M. time need to be consistent. Have a prescribed time set aside for homework. Two of my grandchildren get up early to do their homework. Have a standard of quality work you will and won’t accept. If a paper needs to

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be re-done, legible writing will become a habit. When a child is going to do his/her homework, ask the child to tell you what needs to be done. This helps the child who is “adrift” to focus on the job at hand.

When the child is finished with homework, ask to be shown what was accomplished. This keeps the child accountable.

HOMEWORK IS A PART OF GOING TO SCHOOL: One of the nightmares children create is to get behind in the first weeks of school. Homework needs to be completed each day. With new technology, parents can check to see what homework is expected. The point of homework is to practice what has been taught. An inability to do that night’s work tells the teacher there is a learning problem.

If the parent DOES the homework, the teacher misses a clue. If a child who fails to do homework all week is given all the homework for the week on Saturday morning, to be completed without fun breaks, that child will soon find doing homework each night is a better choice.

COMMUNICATE WITH THE TEACHER: Let the teacher know if your child is floundering or afraid of going to school. It takes a village; parents and teachers need to work together to help the child succeed.

LET YOUR CHILD LEARN FROM MISTAKES THAT ARE MADE: When I taught school, huge projects would be difficult to grade. Next to a popsicle stick mission was an architectural masterpiece, obviously done by Dad. Don’t stay up all night helping your child get a project done on time. Let the child learn to manage time by failing to get the project in on time.

LET CHILDREN BE CHILDREN: Too many of the parents who come to me for parent coaching are stressed to the max because of over-scheduling. Rather than putting additional pressure on the child, leave room to play or just to be. Many of our children are missing their childhoods. 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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O

By Sandy McDaniel

Idaho Family Magazine | September 2016 19

Irene’s Insights

Are you ready for a bathroom update?

By Irene Woodworth

D

id you know that some homeowners neglect updating their bathrooms because they are overwhelmed and not sure where to start?

Perhaps you have an older home and would like to update the outdated fixtures.

There are some items that need to be considered in your bathroom update/remodel: color selection, paint finish, Irene Woodworth fixture selection, bathroom cabinets, counter and tile, bathroom linens, art and decorating accessories.

Color should be the foundation for your bathroom update/ remodel. Once this is selected, you can make all of your decorating decisions based on your color choice so that everything will blend or contrast with your design.

Your bathroom can be challenging because usually you do not have adequate lighting. Do not assume you can just use a color you used in another room and paint the bathroom with it. You may expect the color to look or “read” the same, but all of a sudden you realize it looks different in this room. This is called “metamerism,” which simply means the color has changed due to the lack of lighting or the direction the light comes into the room.

Make sure you get a color that will look great in the daylight and with your lights on. If you are still not satisfied, you can always call on an expert color consultant to choose the perfect

Before

A yellow-colored bathroom design looked dull prior to an update. (Photo provided

by Irene Woodworth)

color to meet your decorating style and personality.

Paint finish is extremely important in bathrooms. Since there is more chance of mildew occurring in this room, you need to consider using paint in a semi-gloss finish with a Mildewcide formula to prevent any mildew growing in this moist-filled room. Since most bathrooms have smaller windows, you will need to make sure there is plenty of ventilation with a good fan or access to a window to dry out the often occurring moisture in the room.

Do you want to update your fixtures from the standard silver finish? The variety of finishes covers several styles in brass, copper, chrome, nickel, gold-plated, oil-rubbed metals, matte or shiny finish, or a smooth satin sheen; even faucets with texture are now available to consumers in all After price ranges. Chrome is still the leader in sales. However, aesthetically, Judd Lord, director of industrial design for Delta Faucet Co., says, “The trend is to customize.

Special finishes, such as brushed nickel and oil-rubbed bronze, outsell chrome by a wide margin — especially for remodels and do-it-yourself projects, where people typically spend between $100 and $300 on faucets.”

Do not forget to include your towel bars in your update along with fixtures such as a faucet in the sink and bathtub. This will give an updated, coordinated look to your remodel. The variety of fixtures is very extensive.

Sometimes it can be hard to make a decision. Keeping your color choices and design style will help you match your selections. A contemporary style will call for more of a brushed nickel sleek design. However, for a more rustic and earthy look, using oil-rubbed bronze will be a better choice.

Bathroom cabinets are sometimes needed. You can do it yourself by keeping your existing cabinets and repainting them if your limited budget is an issue.

There are so many options out there that it is a good idea to do some window shopping before you make After the update, the bathroom looked more colorful and inviting. (Photo provided by Irene your final decision. Keep your eye out for sales online or Woodworth)

20 September 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

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A case study: bathroom update

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.

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We worked with a homeowner redesigning her home one room at a time. The guest bathroom really needed an update on several levels. She wanted to update all of her bathroom fixtures from the old silver style to oil-rubbed bronze. This finish really went well with her color choices of soft creamy yellow and rusted earthy red accents. She had old oak towel bars that she disliked and wanted to include in the update.

The room was in desperate need of a redesign and color change.

We first painted the walls the creamy soft butter color, and it freshened the room up immediately. We found some nice oil-rubbed bronze fixtures she really liked and we were able to purchase at a big box hardware store. We installed those and made the changes.

We found a beautiful damask red and gold tone for tone design. The towels we found matched the room’s look perfectly. Then we found a soap dish, soap dispenser and a couple of canisters in a copper finish that really completed her desired look. I found a ceramic red pot and made a floral arrangement that added some zest to her décor.

We did not need to buy much artwork since she had several pieces that were not being used that also matched her look.

We went from an outdated, colorless and sterile bathroom to a warm, updated and welcoming look that was coordinated and cohesive.

The homeowner told us she was no longer embarrassed for any guests to use the guest bathroom. Instead, she welcomed them to use it and was proud of the updated look.

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in the local paper. There are several readymade cabinets with granite countertops installed with an updated sink from big box hardware stores. A family member found a great readymade sink and cabinet combo that fit in her smaller bathroom. It was available at a great discount she could not pass up and was in keeping with her darker wood design.

Do not forget to check out sources like Habitat for Humanity restores. You will be amazed at the variety of items that are resold from other remodels. It may just be the style and budget you want to complete your look. Check out the height of your cabinets and know that more cabinets are being designed taller than they used to be. They are easier to use, cause less back strain and are easier to clean in some styles.

Do you want to use some tile or just add a backsplash of tile to your room? There are some DIY classes in hardware stores and online that can assist you in learning how to do tile installation. A bathroom can be a great starting project since it is usually smaller in square footage. However, if you do not feel confident in doing this installation yourself, then hire out a handyman who can do this part for you.

Bathroom lighting is also up and coming in design styles these days. If you are limited on your budget, you could take your light fixture and paint it in a metallic color to update the look. We have done this sometimes to assist the homeowner to stay on budget. Sometimes just changing the light fixture shades can also transform an outdated style of lighting fixtures. Again, thrift stores and discounted stores can assist you in this purchase.

What about your bathroom mirror? Do you like what you have and would just like to figure out a way to update it? You can add a high-end custom detail with a mirror frame that you make or purchase from mirrormate.com, an online company.

Or you could purchase two mirrors, instead of just one large one, that are framed and can be adjusted with a swivel arm to fit your needs.

Updating bathroom linens can be a fun way of adding a punch of color to your room and stay with your color choices and design style. Your shower curtain, shower rings, towels and bathroom rugs should be color-coordinated. In a smaller space it is best to keep with solid colors. If you use a busy pattern it can make the room appear smaller. You can even find colorcoordinated covers that are plastic and go over your curtain rod to help you save some money if you decide not to purchase a new shower curtain rod. Some homeowners choose colored towels for show or guests and opt to use white towels that can be bleached and fresh for daily use.

Last, but not least, are your bathroom accessories and artwork. You will need to coordinate the finishes with your fixtures or the design of this room. Artwork should be light, airy and coordinate with your design in color, style and size of your bathroom.

Sometimes bathrooms can be great starting points for updating your home since they are usually smaller rooms than a kitchen and used more frequently. You and your guest will appreciate it! n

Idaho Family Magazine | September 2016 21

moMENts

Daughter mows lawn, keeps all 10 toes the oil fill. She picked up my red gas can and began “ pouring. Unfortunately, I forgot to teach, “Stop when ould I please you get to the fill line.” Gas mow the splashed onto Jessie’s arm yard?” Nuand my leg. merous times, Unfazed, Jessie I’ve fielded this question couldn’t wait from Jessie. Since I use to start the a push mower and want mower. She my 11-year-old daughter pulled the to keep all 10 of her toes, cord as hard as my standard response has she could sevbeen, “You’re too young.” eral times, but the Deep down, though, I engine didn’t start. realized I’m overly protec- Patrick Hempfing I gave it one quick tive and need to let Jessie pull and it fired right up. learn this skill. Last sumI turned the mower off and Jessie tried mer, when Jessie asked again while batting again. She pulled it another 10-12 times. the long eyelashes above her big pleading eyes, I caved … I mean, I decided the time Too slow and not enough oomph. I showed her again. Jessie wanted to do it herself was right to teach her. so I shut off the engine a second time. I Of course, Jessie wanted to do each step admire many things about my daughter — put gas in the mower, start it, and push it to cut the grass. I emphasized the impor- and her tenacity ranks near the top of the list. When she sets her mind to a project tance of pouring gas into the gas tank, not — look out. After another 6-8 pulls, the engine hummed. Her smile lit up the yard.

I patted Jessie on the back and said, “Good job!”

I took the first turn mowing to catch the steep places and edge of the road so Jessie wouldn’t have to mow anywhere dangerous. Jessie hula hooped in the driveway for a few minutes, then followed behind me with her hula hoop wrapped around her waist, anxiously waiting her turn.

When I reached a flat stretch in the yard, I turned control of the mower over to Jessie, with a reminder about the importance of keeping all her fingers and toes.

I walked behind her for the first few trips back and forth across the yard. At the ends of the rows, I turned the mower for her several times before showing her how to spin it around herself. She mowed for about 10 minutes, though it seemed much longer as I watched her every step.

Jessie did a nice job overall, though I did point out a few places where she skipped a space between her rows, leaving narrow strips of taller grass that needed to be remowed. When Jessie came to a tree in our

By Patrick Hempfing

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C

22 September 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

yard, I took over.

“Go get a drink of water and please fetch my camera.” After a brief water break, Jessie came running out, ready for her second shift. I took pictures to capture her first mowing experience.

Jessie mowed for another 10 minutes, but then the skies darkened and I wanted to finish the front yard before the rain came — plus my nerves were shot. She said, “Okay, I’ll go in and start supper.” I mowed a few minutes before deciding to go in to make sure the fire extinguisher wasn’t in use.

The afternoon’s lesson didn’t call for a beautiful yard and a burnt down house.

After supper, I sent a text to my wife with photos of Jessie mowing. The phone rang a few minutes later and I heard Jessie say, “Because I’m a big girl, not a baby.”

The next morning, after an overnight storm, I walked outside to pick up the morning newspaper. Two branches from our crabapple tree filled the driveway.

Though I know the future holds many more teaching moments, one thing is certain. Jessie won’t be learning how to use a chainsaw any time soon.

As Labor Day approaches, I’m thinking about the importance of teaching Jessie the skills she’ll need to be a good worker when she grows up. Sometimes, it’s faster, and easier on my nerves, to do things myself than to teach her. At other times, a second set of hands and legs — and youthful brain — prove beneficial. But whether it’s a task Jessie can already perform or a new skill to be mastered, it’s good for her to learn to work hard and enjoy the labor.

Until next month, remember to cherish the moments. Happy Labor Day! n Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year professional career in banking, accounting, and auditing before he became a father at age 44. He is now a full-time husband, stayat-home dad, and writer. Follow Patrick at www.facebook.com/patricklhempfing and on Twitter @PatrickHempfing. If you enjoyed this column, you’ll like Patrick’s first book, “MoMENts: A Dad Holds On.” The book compiles favorite stories and new material and is available for sale on Amazon.com.

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Operation Avoid Mirrors

Mom shocked by post-baby body changes

By Diane Louise Smith

R

ecently, I read an article about professional photographer Ashlee Wells Jackson. She has a body of work (pun intended) capturing brand new mothers proudly posing with their babies. What made these photos unique was the new mothers were showing off their post pregnancy bodies. These women’s pictures were not concealed or retouched to hide their extra pounds or stretch marks.

I wished Ms. Jackson’s work was around the time I was pregnant with my son. It would have been comforting to see other mothers with the same body changes.

Over 17 years ago, when I first found out I was with child, my body knew exactly what to do. It was as if my physique assembled all its parts and announced, “Gather around troops! This is what we were made for! Commence metamorphoses!” However, my brain was like a conscientious objector. During my first trimester, I thought, “I’m having a b-b-baby? No kidding? Really? Are you sure?!”

Eventually, my mind joined the program, marveling how my body changed with every trimester. I came to appreciate the differences in my cravings. The first trimester it was oranges and milk, the second trimester was peaches and Mexican cuisine, and the third trimester was all about burgers and fries.

After the customary nine months, my son arrived and my mission was clear: I was to do everything in my power to protect this tiny,

adorable bundle. A month later, as he slept soundly in his crib, I went into the bathroom to change clothes, leaving the door open.

He was only a few feet away from me and within my earshot. I had developed a knack for judging how far I could distance myself from him and be in safe range to sprint back in case he needed me.

As I removed my pajamas, I caught a glimpse of myself in the bathroom mirror and gasped. I was startled by my reflection — my belly looked like a deflated tire with deeply scarred tread marks. I started to cry tears of shock; I didn’t recognize myself. It was as if my body had finished its mission and left me in baggy, permanent fatigues.

I looked out the doorway to my tiny son, cooing in his slumber, and I smiled through my tears. My mind engaged and called out to the troops: “Okay, I’m back in charge now! We’ve all been through a lot these nine months, so it stands to reason we look different. It’s going to be okay. Until we build up our strength, we’ll proceed with our new objective...”

If these photos by Ashlee Wells Jackson were around at that time, I would not have embarked on the two-year objective known as Operation Avoid Mirrors — at all costs! n 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 Leomander,” and her blog is www.writingsbydiane.blogspot.com. She is currently working on her master’s degree. She is also working on another book of short stories.

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24 September 2016 | Idaho Family Magazine

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