Sept_Oct 2014_Hamilton County Family

family HAMILTON COUNTY

SEPTEMBER|OCTOBER 2014

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BACK TO SCHOOL "EWWWS" FALL FUN IN HAMILTON COUNTY 2014 PRIVATE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE OVERCOMMITTED MOM SYNDROME ART CLASSES

contents On the Radar 10 Beach Bash, Renaissance Faire, Plane Pull Challenge and more!

Meet the Staff SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2014

Publisher Mary Wynne Cox mary@hamiltoncountyfamily.com Editor Susan Bryant susan@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

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Associate Publisher Advertising Sales Jennica Zalewski jennica@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

Back to School "EWWW" 12 Lice, pink eye, impetigo and strep throat

The Overcommitted Mom 14 How much is too much?

Creative Director Katie Clark katie@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

Fall Fun 16 Take your pick of local activities this time of year

Advertising Coordinator Jennifer Beahrs jbeahrs@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

What's Cool After School 20 Art classes

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2014 Open House Guide 24 Upcoming private school open houses

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Ask the Expert 30 Mental health professionals

To Your Health 32

Editorial Assistant Wendy Schrepferman s.wendy@hamiltoncountyfamily.com Business Manager | Accounting Roxanne Burns roxanne@hamiltoncountyfamily.com Public Relations and Events Wendy Cox wendy@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

Losing sleep

Mommy Magic 34 Beware the "shoulds"

Hamilton County Finds & Faves 36 The best ways to spend a fall day

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Steffy McCourt, Maggie Loiselle, Terri Spilman, Nicole Turner and Mary Susan Buhner

Contact Us:

Reci-please 38

Hamilton County Family PO Box 40206, Indianapolis, IN 46240 (317) 417-3031 or (317) 710-6622

Pork tenderloin with cranberry apple cider sauce

To Do With Your Crew 40 Family fun activities

The Last Laugh 43 Favorite funny family moments

ON THE COVER Parker and Camden Luedtke of Carmel Photographer: Michelle Tiek Photography michelletiekphotography.com

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Hamilton County Family Magazine is published bi-monthly. Copyright 2014.

All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.

Scan this QR code and instantly access Hamilton County Family from your smart phone or tablet device! www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

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September/October 2014 | HAMILTON COUNTY FAMILY 07

Ready Set GO! Where in the world did the summer go? I feel like I was just cleaning out old school papers and supplies from last year and now I’ve spent a small fortune at Target on a new stock pile!

If I’m completely honest though, the back-to-school groove for my family is a welcome change after an unscheduled, laid back, chilled out break!

We have some great articles in this issue for you to read. Timed perfectly is The Overcommitted Mom. I know we can all relate to saying “no” to our kids but what about saying “no” to volunteering for our kids’ activities? The sign up lists are coming home and those scout troops, classrooms and sports teams are all innocently out to recruit you. Read on for some tips for how to manage these requests on your time.

Now that school is back in session, how long do you think it will take before your kid brings home some icky bug or infection? Back to School Ewww is a helpful checklist on how to recognize and treat some of the most common problems that find their way into our homes.

Finally, is fall your favorite season? There are so many opportunities for apple picking, hay rides, pumpkin patches and family festivals in our area – check out Fall Fun for some “not to miss” events. This is such a beautiful time of year in the Hoosier state and I hope you and your family take some time to enjoy what we have.

Cheers to bonfires, s’mores and making family memories this autumn!

Oh… and don’t forget the leaf raking.

Jennica Zalewski

Associate Publisher jennica@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

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on the RADAR

mark your calendar get involved other

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2014

Don't put away those Hawaiian shirts and flip flops just yet!

You’re going to need them for the Chaucie’s Place Treasure Our Children fundraiser, presented by NextGear Capital.

This year’s theme is Beach Bash Sails to The Caribbean! and attendees are encouraged to come in casual beach attire.

The Beach Bash will be held October 9th at the Ritz Charles in Carmel, from 5:30 – 9 pm. The evening will feature delicious island fare, compliments of the Ritz Charles, as well as live and silent auctions that will have items including destination vacations, premium sports tickets and memorabilia, romantic date night packages and much more.

Tickets are $75 each and a table sponsorship is $750. All proceeds will benefit Chaucie’s Place, a nonprofit child advocacy organization that works to prevent child sexual abuse and youth suicide with prevention programs for children, adults and school districts. Visit www.chauciesplace.org for more information.

Come All Ye Lords and Ladies Experience the Golden Age of Queen Elizabeth I at The Fishers Renaissance Faire! With over 250 costumed characters, jousting, period music and dance, Shakespeare vignettes, roving comedy, swordplay, knighting ceremonies, parades and 70+ artisans and merchants, this 10th anniversary faire will be spectacular!

Join the fun the weekend of October 4 - 5 from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm at the Saxony Developments, near 131st Street and Olio Road in Fishers.

For more information, visit www.fishersrenfaire.com.

Concerts in the Centerpiece at Coxhall Gardens Gather for an evening of music on the stately grounds of Coxhall Gardens in Carmel. While listening to the area's best jazz and instrumental performers, visit with family, friends and neighbors.

Picnicking is welcome! Concerts are free and are scheduled from 5 – 7 pm on Sunday evenings.

Sept. 7: Stepp & Walker Sept. 14: Stepp & Staci Sept. 21: Emily Ann Thompson Band Sept. 28: Stella Luna & the Satellites

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Just for Fun September 5th: Lazy Mom’s Day September 6th: World Beard Day September 13th: Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day September 19th: Talk Like a Pirate Day September 21st: Wife Appreciation Day October 18th: Chocolate Cupcake Day

Keep Calm and Follow the Sizzle Have you been to the new Ruth’s Chris Steak House yet? It's current location at 86th Street and North Keystone Avenue is sure to dazzle loyal and new patrons with the glamour of its refreshed style.

The 16,500-foot restaurant is housed within the innovative and modern Ironworks Development, one of the city’s newest “live-workplay” locales, targeting residential dwellers to Ruth’s two levels serving sizzling steaks, swizzling

cocktails and swirling wines. The new Ruth’s has expanded in size with seating for more than 500 patrons, with outdoor patio accommodations for up to 125.

October 19th: Evaluate Your Life Day October 26th: Howl at the Moon Day

Can’t wait to check out this refined, chic and cosmopolitan atmosphere? Enter to win a “date night” at Ruth’s Chris Steak House by visiting the Hamilton County Family website at www. hamiltoncountyfamily.com.

Think you could pull an airplane?

Find out at the FedEx Plane Pull Challenge! This event raises funds and awareness for more than 11,000 Special Olympics athletes in Indiana.

Teams of up to 20 people will compete to pull a jumbo jet a distance of 12 feet across the tarmac in the least amount of time!

Join the fun on Saturday, September 6, 2014 at Indianapolis International Airport – final rosters are not due until the day of the event! To learn more visit www.soindiana.com or call 1-800-742-0612 for registration details, to volunteer or sponsor a team.

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Lice, pink eye, impetigo and strep throat by: Steffy McCourt, mom of 3

Now that kids are back in school, they’re sharing more than vacation stories – a rise in contagious infections and conditions seems to begin as soon as the first class bell rings.

What can parents do to recognize, avoid and treat these common childhood afflictions?

LICE What is it? Pesky, parasitic insects that can be found in the hair or body surviving on human blood; they move by crawling and are between 2.1-3.3 mm in length.

How’d you catch it? “Lice are spread through head to head contact with an individual who is infested with head lice,” says Angela Shirley of The Lice Slayers in Indianapolis. “It can also be spread by sharing hats, brushes, hair ties, pillows, sheets, etc.”

Symptoms? A tickly feeling – like something is moving on your scalp. Lice are most active at night, when it is dark, so this can lead to difficulty sleeping and in turn irritability.

The itching is caused by an allergic reaction to the bites of the louse. “The symptoms of head lice are an itchy scalp, a tickling feeling of something moving on the scalp or through the hair, red bite marks on the scalp from excessive scratching or a red rash on the back of the neck,” says Shirley.

How is it treated? Several methods are available to treat lice. Over the counter and prescription medications can be used. The Lice Slayers use a system that kills lice and their eggs through dehydration in a single 30 minute process. Also, it is necessary to machine wash and dry bed linens and other items that the infested person wore or used during the two days before treatment using hot water (130 F). Combs and hairbrushes can either be boiled or replaced.

When should you see a doctor? Head to the physician’s office for recommendations if your attempt at treating lice has not been effective.

CONJUNCTIVITIS What is it? Also known as “pink eye,” because of how it turns the white of the eye a red or pink color. It can be caused by a virus, bacteria or allergen. Bacterial Conjunctivitis is the leading cause of children being absent from day care or school.

How’d you catch it? Conjunctivitis is either caused by an allergy or by coming into close contact with an infected person.

Symptoms? The whites of the eye turn pink, and there can be a green or yellow discharge that forms a sticky crust, accompanied by sensitivity to bright light.

How is it treated? “Conjunctivitis is pretty easy to diagnose – the eye is red and goopy,” says Dr. Kristen Gollnick of

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North Star Pediatrics. “Deciding what type of pink eye – viral, bacterial or allergic – is a little harder. In general, whether it is viral or bacterial, we treat pink eye with antibiotic drops because it is hard to distinguish between the two and because schools and daycares won't let kids back in unless they are treated. About half the time children have pink eye, they also have an ear infection, so if they are pulling their ears or complaining of pain, or have a fever, they probably need to be seen. Otherwise many offices will just call in drops for they eye.”

When should you see a doctor? If severe redness, pain or blurred vision occur or if symptoms get worse and don’t improve, make an appointment with your doctor.

IMPETIGO What is it? Impetigo is a common skin infection caused by Staphylococcus (staph) or Streptococcus (strep) bacteria. Red, pussfilled sores form where the bacteria have entered the skin.

How’d you catch it? This infection is a result of coming in direct contact with sores or mucus from the nose or throat of an infected person. Scratching or touching an infected area of the skin, and then touching another part of the body without washing hands can spread infection to that new area. Lesions will appear 1-3 days after the person is infected.

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Symptoms? Itchy, red or pimple-like sores surrounded by red skin, which can appear anywhere on the body, but mostly on the face, arms and legs. The lesions fill with pus, then break open after a few days, and form a thick, honey-colored crust.

How is it treated? Antibiotics, in the form of an ointment or cream, are applied directly to the sore(s).

When should you see a doctor?

Whenever a rash develops, it is important to visit the doctor to help determine what it is.

STREP THROAT What is it? Strep throat is an infection in the throat and tonsils caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria (called "group A Strep").

How’d you catch it? The bacteria are spread by coming in contact with the

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droplets from an infected person's cough or sneeze.

Symptoms? Fever, nausea, difficulty swallowing and an intensely sore throat are common symptoms.

How is it treated? “You do not build up immunity to strep, so kids can get it repeatedly,” says Dr. Gollnick. “And it MUST be treated with antibiotics to prevent possible cardiac complications.

The upside is that it is very easy to treat and kids feel better quickly on appropriate antibiotics.”

When should you see a doctor? See your physician if the sore throat is severe enough to disrupt a normal diet and is accompanied by a fever.

Sources: Dr. Kristen Gollnick of North Star Pediatrics in Fishers, Angela Shirley of The Lice Slayers in Indianapolis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc. gov), Mayo Clinic (www.mayoclinic.org)

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THE OVERCOMMITTED MOM by: Maggie Loiselle, mom of 1

HOW MUCH IS TO O MUCH? Room parent. Little league coach. Church volunteer. Fundraising organizer. The demands on the modern mom never seem to end, leaving many feeling overcommitted and overwhelmed.

“We’re creating a pace of life that’s difficult to maintain.

Parents don’t rest, and kids are shuttled from one thing to the next,” says Lisa Duhamell, a family therapist and licensed mental health counselor with LifeStream Counseling in Noblesville. What can parents do to balance their fair share of the volunteer workload without feeling drained from too many requests? Duhamell, who is also a single mother of a 4 year-old son, encourages families to work together to set realistic priorities, establish boundaries, get organized and create a spirit of giving.

Setting priorities

The first question moms should ask themselves when considering whether to add to their extracurricular obligations is, “Does this volunteer opportunity fit with our family’s priorities?”

Duhamell suggests that limiting the number of your activities helps you hone in on one or two things that are important to

your family, such as supporting a child’s passion for a particular sport or volunteering for a cause that’s meaningful to you, while still prioritizing family time.

“We need to sit down, create a vision and make it intentional,” she says. “If our vision is to sit down for dinner every night, why are we doing something that gives us only 10 minutes to eat together?”

Being realistic

The key to not feeling overcommitted is to understand how much you can take on in the time you have.

Brandy Craig, a Noblesville mother of two, says she tries to be realistic about the time she has to devote to volunteer activities, explaining to her boys that her work schedule doesn’t allow her to participate in all school functions. “Most of what I am able to help out with is behind the scenes, and I let my kids know that what I’m doing helps their school,” she says. “I also try to work it out with other family members who may have more flexible schedules so they can volunteer as well.”

Establishing boundaries

One of the most beneficial words in a mom’s vocabulary is “no.”

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Setting boundaries and sticking to them means a once-a-month commitment won’t snowball into a weekly task.

“If you find yourself procrastinating, complaining or becoming resentful, re-evaluate your commitments,” says Kristen DiBella of Carmel, a former family therapist and mother of two. “It’s okay to say, ‘I am interested in helping you once my other commitments are completed,’ or, ‘I need help taking on this duty.’”

Getting organized

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you don’t have a good handle on the details. Write out daily, weekly and monthly schedules – which can help you better see where you’re devoting your time.

Wendy Cox, Noblesville mother of three, uses this approach and says “[This process] lets me be objective and realistic about how much time I have available and if the things I am spending my time on are really important enough to me to take time away from the family.”

You’re less likely to overcommit if you can see your schedule in black and white. Another Noblesville mom of three, Jessica Harrison, says “My weekly planner sheets are hour to hour.

I can visibly see where I’m spending my time and if I’m overdedicating myself to things.”

Creating a spirit of giving

While volunteering is an important way to model generosity, the true focus should be on the spirit of selflessness, rather than the specific act of giving, experts say.

“With a 1 year-old and an almost 3 year-old, we rarely have a lot of time to give, so I tend to offer donations of clothing and canned foods or one-time efforts,” DiBella says. “There are often a variety of ways to provide service on a one-time basis, all of which are equally necessary and appreciated.”

Duhamell agrees, noting that it’s important for children to see that small acts of giving are important too. “Volunteering is not all or nothing. It’s all in moderation,” she says, stressing that even minor gestures can make a difference.

Although the influx of requests on your time isn’t likely to subside, you can change how you decide to manage them. Try incorporating a few of these tips and see if the volunteer activities you do choose to participate in become a less stressful and more enjoyable way to spend your valuable time.

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FALL FUN Take your pick of local activities this time of year! by: Terri Spilman, mom of 1

While Labor Day weekend may signal the official end of summertime activities, it’s simply a prelude to a fall season packed with award-winning festivals, mouth-watering comfort foods and fright-tastic Halloween activities.

The Nickel Plate District in Fishers has a colorful way to cool down on a warm September night with their Glow in the Park event on September 13 from 9-11pm complete with a neon splash zone.

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If getting wet is not your thing, watch a family movie under the stars at Fall Movies in the Park in Fishers on Fridays beginning September 5 and running until October 17.

A few movies on the schedule include The Nut Job, Free Birds and The Lego Movie.

17th annual Carmel International Arts Festival runs September 27-28 in

The

the Arts and Design District with works from over 130 juried artists. New this year for children is a series of interactive Young at Art stations located throughout the festival.

Worried about a place to park your bike?

No problem, bicycle parking is available in a “Pedal to the Arts” area located at the southwest corner of Main Street and the Monon Trail.

The “F” in Fall definitely stands for festival food in Hamilton County. Get out your lederhosen for the inaugural Carmel Lutheran Church Oktoberfest on Friday, September 26 from 5-10 pm. Dance and sing to traditional polka music from Chicago’s “The Johnny Wagner Band” and get your brat and kraut on by indulging in an authentic German Supper.

The St. George Festival will be held September 12-13 for the first time at the new location of St. George Orthodox Christian Church at 10748 East 116th Street in Fishers. The church sponsored the Middle Eastern Festival for 17 years at its prior location in Indianapolis, and the newly revamped festival builds on that Middle Eastern heritage, offering many popular features of previous festivals.

Fall cannot officially arrive until you’ve had an apple cider slushie, a caramel apple or a cider donut from an assortment of seasonal orchard stores like The Apple Store at Conner Prairie, Stuckey Farm Orchard or Stonycreek Farm.

For the largest selection of pumpkins, gourds, squash, mums and indian corn in the area, visit Pumpkinfest at The Country Market in Zionsville. Every weekend in October join the fun with hayrides, blue grass bands, pumpkin decorating, farm animals, a corn maze, 100 ft slide and more. www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

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Take an afternoon trip to explore some of the towns that make up Hamilton County as many have long running fall festivals that showcase the heart of each community and contain a plethora of activities for children. Ever see a pumpkin fly? Sheridan High School students test the laws of physics with their famous

Pumpkin Chuck at The Sheridan Harvest Moon Festival in Biddle Memorial

the Cool Creek Nature Center. Wear your new costume to the park’s annual

Haunted Trails October 28-30 where local volunteer organizations write their own scripts to “scare” the crowd – all for a good cause.

Perennial favorite, the Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie is having a contest this year to elect the Mayor of “Conner Scairie .” Even those who have attended before have been known to screech as the headless horseman passes by for one of the county’s most popular Halloween traditions.

Park September 20-21.

A little further north, the 41st Annual Atlanta New Earth Festival runs Sep-

With so much to do locally in our area, be sure to take advantage of all the fun Hamilton County has to offer your family this season!

tember 26-27 with over 600 fine arts, crafts, antiques and food vendors set up along charming Main Street in downtown Atlanta.

Make it a day on the rails by taking a train ride to the festival from the Noblesville Transportation Museum.

There is no shortage of Halloween fun and hayrides to round out the month of October.

Tired of spending money on expensive Halloween costumes? Why not trade costumes at the Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Costume Swap on October 11 and 18 at

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[ BRANDED CONTENT ]

what.s COOL AFTER SCHOOL

{ART} classes A Space to Create 65 E. Cedar Street, Zionsville

(317) 658-6913 www.aspacetocreateart.com

Every child seems to have an innate desire to create – and fostering that natural interest is one of the best gifts you can give them.

Art instruction introduces kids to new ideas, new materials and new ways to express themselves creatively. And this kind of fun isn’t just for kids! Many local establishments include art classes for adults as well – check out these options to find out more!

A Space to Create offers art classes, workshops, art camps, birthday parties and more for kids ages 2 1/2 and up.

Founder Jenny Tucker, a Zionsville artist and art teacher, says "It is important to me that we teach the art of creativity, supported by lessons in art history and technique. I don't want to teach kids how to copy me, I want them to have the opportunity to strengthen and explore their own artistic impulses with my support as an artist and teacher. That's also why it is important to me that we offer the chance for our students to try many mediums, including paint, pencils, pastels, oil pastels, collage, clay and sculpture." A Space to Create offers a variety of classes, including Home School Art Enrichment, Advanced Art, Mom's Hour Out and more.

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Indianapolis Art Center Marilyn K. Glick School of Art 820 East 67th Street, Indianapolis

(317) 255-2464 www.indplsartcenter.org The Indianapolis Art Center’s Youth programs give your child or teen the opportunity to learn, explore and create at one of the largest community art facilities in the United States. Creative expression is an integral part of intellectual growth.

All Art Center classes and workshops encourage creativity, curiosity, problem solving, self-expression and a sense of community and cooperation.

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MyART 622 South Rangeline Road, Suite M, Carmel 12244 East 116th Street, Fishers 39 North 10th Street, Noblesville

(317) 443-6831 80 W. Pine Street, Zionsville

(317) 774-3729 www.myartindy.com Myart is a teaching art studio, offering drawing, painting and art instruction for children, teens and adults, ages 4 and up. Our curriculumbased programs include guided, semi-guided and fully independent methods of art instruction designed to develop both conceptual understanding and core skills and techniques.

Art classes are generally structured according to age and are conducted in a supportive non-competitive environment. In addition to our weekly art classes, we also offer art camps and workshops, canvas painting events for children and adults, private painting parties, birthday parties and classes for scout troops.

The Art Studio of Carmel 30 N. Rangeline Road, Carmel

(317) 213-7572 www.theartstudioofcarmel.com We are a small art school, located in the Carmel Arts and Design District, on the second floor of the Simply Sweet Shoppe. During the school year, we have after school art classes on either Tuesday or Wednesday afternoons, 4-5 pm, as well as Saturday afternoons, 1-2:30 pm, and drop-ins are welcome. Classes can be purchased as one class or a series of classes.

In the summer, we offer 7 weeks of summer camps with various themes. We also will host children’s birthday parties with either a finished painting or a music and art craft for younger kids. On Friday & Saturday nights we host a “Paint the Night Away” for teens and adults.

Private classes are also available.

IndplsArtCenter.org

Other opportunities for art instruction in our area include: Arthouse Carmel Academy of the Arts Color Me Mine Hamilton County Artists Association Nickel Plate Arts Sullivan Munce The Paint Cellar

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[ BRANDED CONTENT ]

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[2014]

E D I U G E S U O H N E P O Considering a private school for your student? Our area has plenty to

Covenant Christian High School 7525 West 21st Street, Indianapolis, IN 46214

choose from! Find the right match by visiting an upcoming open house to get all your questions answered.

(317) 390-0202 | www.covenantchristian.org Grades 9 – 12 Open Houses: November 5, January 28, February 25 & March 18

Bishop Chatard High School

Culver Academies

5885 Crittenden Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46220

(317) 251-1451 | www.bishopchatard.org Grades 9 – 12 Open House: November 6, 2014, 5:30-8:00 pm

Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School 2801 West 86th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46268

(317) 524-7050 | www.brebeuf.org Grades 9 – 12 Open House: November 2, 2014, 12:00-3:00 pm

Cathedral High School 5225 East 56th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46226

(317) 542-1481 | www.cathedral-irish.org Grades 9 – 12 Open House: November 13, 2014, 5:30-8:00 pm

Colonial Christian School 8140 Union Chapel Road, Indianapolis, IN 46240

317.253.0649 | www.ccsindy.org Grades K-12 Call for more information.

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1300 Academy Road, Culver, IN 46511

www.culver.org Grades 9 – 12 Open Houses: September 20, October 18 & November 15

Guerin Catholic High School 15300 North Gray Road, Noblesville,IN 46062

(317) 582-0120 | www.guerincatholic.org Grades 9 – 12 Open House: November 9, 2014 1-3:30 pm

Hasten Hebrew Academy 6602 Hoover Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260

(317) 251-1261 | www.hhai.org Pre-K – Grade 8 Call to schedule a tour.

Heritage Christian School 6401 East 75th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46250

(317) 849-3441 | www.heritagechristian.net Pre-K – Grade 12 Call to schedule a tour.

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Howe Military Academy 5755 North State Road 9, Howe, IN 46746

(​888) 462-4693 www.howemilitary.org Grades 7-12 To schedule a campus visit, call (888) 462-4693 or email admissions@howemilitary.org.

International School of Indiana [Lower School] 200 West 49th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208

(317) 923-1951 | www.isind.org Pre-K – Grade 8 Open Houses: October 16, 2014, 8:30-11:30 am & 4:00-6:00 pm November 18, 2014, 8:30-11:30 am & 4:00-6:00 pm February 26, 2015, 8:30-11:30 am & 4:00-6:00 pm [Upper School] 4330 North Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46208

(317) 923-1951 | www.isind.org Grades 9 – 12 Open Houses: November 9, 2014, 2:00-5:00 pm February 8, 2015, 2:00-5:00 pm

Legacy Christian School 470 Lakeview Drive, Noblesville, IN 46060

(317) 776-4186 www.legacychristianonline.org Pre-K – Grade 8 Call to schedule a tour.

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Midwest Academy 801 Congressional Boulevard, Carmel, IN 46032

(317) 843-9500 www.mymidwestacademy.org Grades 4 – 12 Call to schedule a tour or a day to shadow.

The Oaks [Brookside Campus] 3092 Brookside Parkway North Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46218

(317) 822-4900 www.theoaksacademy.org Pre-K – Grade 3 Call to schedule a tour.

[Fall Creek Campus] 2301 North Park Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46205

(317) 931-3043 www.theoaksacademy.org Pre-K – Grade 8 Call to schedule a tour.

The Orchard School 615 West 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260

(317) 251-9253 www.orchard.org Pre-K – Grade 8 Open Houses: November 2, 2014, 1:00-3:00 pm December 9, 2014, 8:30-10:30 am January 27, 2015, 8:30-10:30 am

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Our Lady of Grace Catholic School 9900 East 191st Street, Noblesville, IN 46060

(317) 773-4275 www.ologs.org Pre-K – Grade 8 Open House: January 15, 2015, 1:00-3:00 pm

Park Tudor 7200 North College Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46240

(317) 415-2700 www.parktudor.org Junior K – Grade 12 Call to schedule a tour.

St. Louis de Montfort 11441 Hague Road, Fishers, IN 46038

(317) 842-6778 www.sldmfishers.org Open House: November 6, 2014, 8-11:00 am

St. Richard’s Episcopal School 33 East 33rd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205

(317) 926-0425 www.strichardsschool.org Pre K – Grade 6 Call to schedule a tour.

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Sycamore School 1750 West 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260

(317) 202-2500 www.sycamoreschool.org Pre K – Grade 8 Open Houses are offered every Wednesday morning – call to schedule a tour.

Traders Point Christian Academy 6600 South Indianapolis Road, Whitestown, IN 46075

(317) 769-2450 www.tpcs.org Pre K – Grade 12 Open Houses: K-12 Fall Parent Information Night: October 28, 2014, 6:30- 8:00 pm K-12 Winter Parent Information Night: February 10, 2015, 6:30-8:00 pm Kindergarten Round Up Parent Night: January 26, 2015, 6:30 pm

University High School 2825 West 116th Street, Carmel, IN 46032

(317) 733-4475 www.universityhighschool.org Grades 9 – 12 Open Houses: September 21, 2014 from 2:00-4:00 pm November 2, 2014 from 2:00-4:00 pm March 8, 2015 from 2:00-4:00 pm

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ASK the EXPERT

M E N TA L H E A L T H PROFESSIONALS

Although there is some discrepancy among professionals about the specific age of onset for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, it is possible that a 13 year old boy could present with symptoms. Frequently, life transitions can trigger or intensify those symptoms as well.

In fact, Allen H. Weg, EdD, states that it is believed that a combination of the hormonal changes that take place during adolescence, together with the growing demands and responsibilities of life might also play a role.

Depending on the severity and intensity of the activities, it may not necessarily need treatment at this time but it is good to know that treatment is available.

OCD is a neurobiological illness that can be effectively treated by training the brain how to respond differently to obsessions. The first step, as a parent, might be to help your child

identify behavior and thought patterns and their frequency. For example, do the obsessions seem to intensify before bed, or right before school or a test? Are they coping skills to manage stress? If so, introducing other grounding and mindfulness-based activities and thoughts could assist in minimizing the obsessive behaviors (i.e. meditation, yoga, deep breathing, visualization, etc…).

Recognizing and changing thought patterns can also be helpful to address obsessive behavior. For example, changing the thought “Everything has to be perfect before I leave my room” to “I will be okay today, even if my room doesn’t look perfect.” Eckart Tolle teaches us that “once we begin to see the pattern, it already begins to lose its power.”

Perhaps these can be the most comforting words for parents and children suffering with OCD. Finding a good therapist to talk through other options and assist in making more proper diagnosis can also be helpful.

Submitted by Stephanie Lowe-Sagebiel, MSW, LCSW, of Centerpoint Counseling

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My 13 year old son has always been rather anxious and lately has developed some behaviors that seem troubling - like having specific rituals for checking that doors are locked and being very regimented in his grooming habits. Also, he gets upset when his personal things are not precisely organized. Is this a sign of compulsive behavior that I should be concerned about or just teen idiosyncrasies?

I think my 2 year old niece may be autistic. I would like to bring up my concerns to my sister-in-law but I’m afraid she will not be receptive. I know early intervention can make a big difference in kids with autism, so I want

30 HAMILTON COUNTY FAMILY | September/October 2014

to broach the topic with her, but I’m just not sure how to. What is the best way to start a conversation with her?

Often, broaching a parent about their child's special needs is difficult. Since you are a relative you can demonstrate love toward that child while mentioning some observations that you have noted about your niece. Using an opportunity that naturally occurs would be ideal. Perhaps the mother says she is tired of her little one's inability to accept change, or how she doesn't look at her much when she is talking. Then, if you believe the parent may be open to direct feedback, you can say that these behaviors are often similar to some children who are on the autism spectrum. A less direct approach or simultaneous approach could be to ask if the mom has considered taking her to a professional to discover if there is something she could be doing to help her child. Even if it is not autism, there can be help to ease other issues and aide development. Family physicians should be informed of parent concerns during check-ups and a parent can visit In.gov to learn about First Steps through the Bureau of Child Development Services. At times the best support for a parent can be encouragement to look for professional attention as you validate their concerns.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has reported new figures that 1 in 68 people are acknowledged as being on the autism spectrum. Some therapists believe that girls are much more likely to be missed www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

by a diagnosis due to the criteria being slanted toward male symptoms. This trend needs to be addressed. Early intervention does aid not only the child, but the whole family. While difficult to do, open conversations help provide needed care.

Submitted by Sandi French, M.S., EdS, LMHC, NCC and Gloria Hood, M.S., LMFT/LSW of North Meridian Psychiatric Associates and the Indiana Center for Children and Families, Inc.

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My four year old son has a great deal of difficulty expressing his anger in appropriate ways. When he’s upset, he will hit, kick, pinch and even bite us sometimes. We are trying to get him to talk through what is upsetting him, but we aren’t making much progress. What can we do to get him to vent his frustrations in more socially acceptable ways?

There are two issues you should be commended for recognizing: 1) that your son is using physical aggression as a means to communicate that he is “angry” and (2) you are acknowledging that the issue is not his “anger” but the way he is expressing his anger. Sometimes, caregivers fail to realize that children are just as entitled to their feelings as adults.

If you have already ruled out any emotional or mental health issues that would complicate his ability to self-regulate, consider the following: 1) Make sure he can recognize and label emotions.

2) Use social stories as a creative and visual way to show him social situations that could lead to an anger outburst and appropriate responses.

This can expose him to the process of chaining events and the cause/effect connection between an event and the following response. 3) Practice role playing. This will give him experience using the techniques you are teaching him. 4) Closely monitor your son for real life situations. When he is faced with an opportunity to use his techniques, quickly jump in and guide him through the process. 5) Praise him when he does express his anger appropriately! He needs to know what he is doing right, not just what he did wrong! If he still has an anger outburst, but at least tried to handle it appropriately, be sure to talk with him about it later and praise him for the attempt.

Submitted by Dr. Gwen Martin-Perryman, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, of Conduct Curb, LLC

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September/October 2014 | HAMILTON COUNTY FAMILY 31

by: Steffy McCourt, mom of 3

Losing Sleep What gets in the way of kids getting their zzz's According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) we spend one-third of our lives asleep. And this is not wasted time.

Among other things, sleep greatly contributes to a healthy immune system and a balanced appetite. For children, not getting enough sleep can wreak havoc on their physical and emotional health.

“Sleep deprivation for all children of all ages can lead to problems,” says Anne W. Batson, APRN, FNP-BC, Nurse Practitioner at Community Sleep Specialists in Indianapolis. In a 2014 NSF Sleep in America poll, a correlation between poor sleep and over-use of technology such as smart-phones, tablets, computers or televisions (especially in the bedroom) was found to be a pervasive issue. Batson, a mother of two, whose children experienced a variety of sleep problems growing up, always felt strongly about developing boundaries concerning electronics. “I was adamant that neither of them could have a television in their rooms, and that their computers had to stay downstairs. Electronics in the bedroom of kids from grade school through college is a huge cause of sleep deprivation.”

Another boundary parents can enforce is having an established bedtime routine starting when children are small. Heather Rafool, a Noblesville mother of three, describes the many ways that her 2 ½ year-old daughter would try to delay her bedtime.

She would ask for a drink of water. She would need to use the restroom. She would need a hug. Rafool said that they finally told her that she would need to do all of those things before she went to bed – and when she was in bed it was time to sleep. Period. After a couple of days without responding to any more of her “pleas” this new routine worked. “She has boundaries; she is happier,” Rafool said.

While Rafool’s 2 ½ year-old is sleeping soundly now, her 6 year-old will sometimes awaken her by screaming and flailing – a night terror. Rafool says these incidences come and go in phases, sometimes with months in between. “He never really wakes up. It’s hard to console him. And he doesn’t remember it the next day.”

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Batson said a night terror typically occurs in the first third of the night, and is the most dramatic of the sleep disorders. “Night terrors can result in bodily injury because the child may seem awake and might be partially aware of their surroundings but at the same time, has a misperception of the environment. There is no comforting or consoling a child who is having a night terror and attempting to might result in getting hit or kicked. The behavior may be violent and the parents’ best approach is to do whatever is necessary to keep everyone safe. In most cases, the child will have complete amnesia for the activity.”

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The difference between a nightmare and a night terror seems to be that the child is aware of the nightmare. “Between 10-50% of children ages 3-5 years old are affected by an occasional nightmare,” says Batson. “Parents should be aware that post-traumatic stress disorder is the most common cause of recurring nightmares in children and teens and can persist throughout a lifetime if the traumatic event is not addressed.”

Another sleep issue, bedwetting (enuresis) is prevalent in 30% of 4 year old children but should not be considered abnormal until the child is continuing to wet the bed at least twice weekly beyond the age of 5 years old.

Current thought is that bedwetting is a combination of three factors: 1) lack of a substance called arginine vasopressin that decreases urine production in sleep 2) over-activity of an immature bladder and 3) inability for a child to awaken in response to a full bladder. Treatments are geared towards addressing one or more of these issues. Medications are available to alter urine production and relax the bladder muscles to increase bladder capacity. There are also alarms that can alert and sensitize a sleepy child to respond quickly if they start to urinate. This is a condition that requires the input of a pediatrician to help select the appropriate course of action. It’s important to remember that children, no matter what age, should never be punished for bed-wetting.

Sleep issues in children can affect the whole family. If your best efforts at home are not resolving a problem, be sure to talk with your pediatrician for guidance. A good night’s sleep can help everyone feel rested, refreshed and ready to take on the day.

How much sleep do kids need?

According to the National Sleep Foundation, children 6-10 should get 10-11 hours per night.

Children ages 11-17 should get 8.5-9.5 hours per night.

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September/October 2014 | HAMILTON COUNTY FAMILY 33

Mommy Magic

by: Mary Susan Buhner, mom of 3

Beware the "Shoulds" What you gain by saying "no" I can be my own worst enemy, especially when a new school year and sports season arrives. Many days and nights I have spent asking myself: How did this happen to me? How is it that I have signed up for every single thing related to my kids and their school and sports schedule? I stand in my kitchen, year after year, scratching my head wondering how I am going to make it all happen.

It wasn't until my third child was going into second grade that some advice I was given many years earlier began to ring true for me. I had the opportunity to meet a film producer of a very well-known movie franchise. He and his wife went to IU and had come back to Indiana to speak at an event. Ever since he was a little boy, this man knew he wanted to produce movies.

He went on to tell the story about how nobody took him seriously in the business, so he decided to put himself through law school in his 30's. He was a family man by then and had to make a living while going to law school at night.

I asked him how he was able to keep such an extreme focus over the years and never lose sight of his dream. He looked me in the eye and said,"I became very good at doing one of the hardest things people have trouble doing – limiting their distractions."

At the time, I remember thinking that this was a profound statement, although I managed to brush aside such sage advice.

Fast forward to the future. Different school year, different sports season, but same me. I continued to overextend myself and sign up for things that I felt like I should do.

That is, until I gave myself a new rule. Anytime the word "should" crossed my mind, I would immediately pump the brakes and ask myself “Do I really want to commit to this or do I just feel like I should?

Once I stopped wasting energy on things I didn't want to do, I finally had headspace for what I said I didn't have time for that I really wanted to pursue in my life.

This isn’t easy to do. For moms, “should” can seem like a part of our DNA. The problem with the "should expectation" is that there are literally are no limits or boundaries to it. And very few people will discourage you from volunteering to do more.

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I am fully aware that there are many things that we should agree to do that are for the right reasons. The “shoulds” I am referring to are optional – the stuff we busy our lives with before we give ourselves permission to do anything that benefits just us.

As a mom for nearly 15 years, I now realize that the list of requests and distractions will never end. It is up to me to think before I automatically say yes to something I feel like I should do. I’ve learned that saying no to one obligation leaves room to say yes to something you might be waiting to explore – and giving yourself that permission is definitely something you should do.

Mary Susan Buhner is a Life Coach for Moms and author of “Mommy Magic: Tricks for Staying Sane in the Midst of Insanity.” Visit her Mommy Magic Fan Page on Facebook and her website at: www.Mommy-Magic.com.

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September/October 2014 | HAMILTON COUNTY FAMILY 35

HAMILTON COUNTY

FINDS & FAVES Cool Creek Park, for sure! – Lavanna H.

What's the best way to spend a a fall day in Hamilton County?

Taking a hot chocolate

or coffee to one of the parks with the kids or visiting Conner Prairie and stopping at the Apple Store.

– James M.

Walking around down-

town Noblesville. Shop-

ping, supporting local

businesses and eating

out at one of the many Stony Creek Farms

Pumpkin Festival followed by a bonfire with family and friends! – Kelly B.

fine restaurants! OR

walking around Hamil-

ton Town Center for all the same reasons!! –

Going to Stuckey Farm,

picking apples, riding on the wagon and eat-

ing a caramel apple while drinking a cider slushie.

– Adrienne S.

Georgia K.

Wandering the MononTrail Depending on the day of the week, taking

the train for a short

Potters Bridge Park

Trails! – Danielle B.

and sampling the local

food and beverage available. – Elizabeth D.

ride, walking downtown Noblesville and visiting

local shops, and letting

the kids enjoy putt putt, merry-go-round, and

playgrounds at Forest

Spending time with

family, marching band

On the patio with a nice

camping. – Kim S.

fire pit roaring. Listening

competitions, or

Park. – Jennifer F.

36 HAMILTON COUNTY FAMILY | September/October 2014

adult beverage and the

to nature make its music.

Ahhhhh…. – Stacey S.

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September/October 2014 | HAMILTON COUNTY FAMILY 37

RECI-

PLEASE Pork Tenderloin with Cranberry Apple Cider Sauce by: Nicole Turner, Registered Dietician, mom of 2

Fighting the dinner drag can be a challenge. I often get in a rut preparing the same foods the same way.

When I get bored with the meals I’m serving, I know my family has to be too. Serving a family favorite a new way generates a spark at the dinner table that changes the mood of everyone gathered. This pork tenderloin is an easy, elegant way to set the stage for an enjoyable family meal. Serve it with a side of mashed sweet potatoes and sautéed green beans, and you could have a new family favorite!

INGREDIENTS: • • • • • • • • • • •

2 pork tenderloins (~ 3/4 pound) 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 2 teaspoons butter 2 Granny Smith Apples, peeled & cut into 16 wedges 1/4 cup dried cranberries 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth 2/3 cup unfiltered apple cider 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch (or arrowroot) 1 tablespoon water 2 teaspoons cider vinegar 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for sauce)

STEPS: 1. Preheat oven to 425ºF. Season tenderloins with black pepper, if desired.

2. Heat oil in a 12-inch, non-stick skillet over medium high heat. Place tenderloins in skillet and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes total.

3. Transfer skillet to oven, with rack placed in upper third of oven. If handles are not oven proof, wrap handles in a triple layer of foil with shiny side out. Roast until thermometer inserted diagonally into center of meat registers 155ºF (about 12 -15 minutes).

4. Transfer meat to a platter. Cover loosely with foil and allow to stand for 15 minutes before slicing.

5. While meat is standing, place butter in skillet used to cook pork and heat on medium high.

6. Once butter is melted, sauté apples and cranberries until apples are tender and golden brown (about 5-7 minutes). Transfer to a plate.

7. Add broth and cider to skillet. Bring to a boil over high heat. Meanwhile, whisk cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Whisk cornstarch mixture into sauce and boil until thickened and reduced to about 1cup, approximately 5 minutes.

8. Remove from heat. Stir in vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper and juices that have accumulated on platter.

9. Cut pork into 1/2-inch slices. Arrange on slices on platter. Top pork with sautéed fruit. Drizzle sauce over pork and serve. **Pork tenderloin is a lean protein choice as well as a good source of B vitamins and minerals such as selenium and zinc.

38 HAMILTON COUNTY FAMILY | September/October 2014

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September/October 2014 | HAMILTON COUNTY FAMILY 39

to do with YOUR CREW SEPTEMBER mon 01 23rd Annual Red Bridge Rod Run Time: 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Price: $5.00 Phone: (317) 984-3475 Location: Red Bridge Park, Cicero www.ciceroin.org View over 200 vintage and classic cars from around Indiana at this spectacular car show! Enjoy live music by Quincy’s Brass Band, a beautiful art and craft marketplace, childrens activities, great food and more! The event benefits Lights Over Morse.

fri 05 – sat 06 Whale of a Sale Price: Prices and sale times vary Location: Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis http://whale-sale.com Indy’s premiere upscale children’s consignment sale is back! Shoppers will enjoy 48,000 square feet of brand name and boutique merchandise at a fraction of the retail price. Whale of a Sale is known for its organized, clean and fun shopping experience.

sat 06 Penrod Arts Fair Time: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Price: $15 presale, $20 day of event Phone: (317) 923-1331 Location: Indianapolis Museum of Art, Indianapolis www.penrod.org

It's the forty-eighth year for The Penrod Arts Fair. Dubbed “Indiana’s Nicest Day,” the fair is one of the nation’s largest single day arts fairs and is held on the beautiful grounds of the Indianapolis Museum of Art. This year’s fair features over three hundred artists, six stages of entertainment, more than 50 arts-related non-profit organizations, and an extensive children’s area.

sundays 07 – 28 Concerts in the Centerpiece Time: 5-7 p.m.

Price: FREE! Phone: (317) 770-4400 Location: Coxhall Gardens, Carmel www.hamiltoncounty.in.gov/department/ index.php?structureid=23 Enjoy an evening on the stately grounds of Coxhall Gardens Sundays in September.

Artists include: September 7th - Stepp and Walker; September 14th - Stepp and Staci; September 21st – Emily Ann Thompson Band; September 28th – Stella Luna and the Satellites.

fri 12 – sat 13 St. George Festival Times: Friday from 5 - 11pm & Saturday from Noon - 11pm Location: St. George Orthodox Church, Fishers www.stgindy.org The annual St. George Festival offers a variety of family-friendly activities and entertainment. Guests can enjoy Middle Eastern food, live music, DJ tent, food demonstrations, book signings, iconogrpahy tours and an on-site carnival! Don't miss this great event!

40 HAMILTON COUNTY FAMILY | September/October 2014

sat 13 Glow Party Time: 9-11 p.m.

Price: FREE admission Location: Nickel Plate District Ampitheater, Fishers www.Fishers.in.us Don’t miss this party where we light up the night! Families of all ages are encouraged to come enjoy live music, face painting, a graffiti wall and other activities taking place in the Nickel Plate District. Be sure to wear white so you glow under the black lights, and come prepared to get messy in the neon splash zone. Parents, supervision is required and towels for the ride home are encouraged!

sat 20 Bongo Boy! A Peanut Butter and Jam Concert Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Price: $10 per child (two adults are free with purchase of each child ticket) Phone: (317) 843.3800 Location: Center for Performing Arts, Carmel www.thecenterfortheperformingarts.org Explore a multitude of musical genres alongside your children. Kick-off the new season with music, rhythm, movement, and drumming! Explore recreational music through games, as kids and parents explore the various percussive instruments. This is a hands-on morning at the Palladium. Parents are encouraged to participate.

sat 20 – sun 21 Sheridan Harvest Moon Festival and 5K Run/Walk Location: Biddle memorial Park, Sheridan www.sheridanharvestmoon.com The historic town of Sheridan celebrates the fall season during an exciting fun-filled weekend! Take part in the 5K Run and Walk, enjoy arts and crafts vendors, live music, food and The Great Pumpkin chuck!

sat 27 Twilight Trail Run and Walk Time: 4-8 p.m.

Price: Pre-registration - $20, Day-of Registration (Starts @ 3:00 pm) - $25 Phone: (317) 770-4400 Location: Strawtown Koteewi Park, Noblesville

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www.hamiltoncounty.in.gov/department/index.php?structureid=23 Hamilton County Parks and Recreation, in partnership with Riverview Health is staging its annual Twilight Trail Run and Walk on Saturday, September 27th. The competitive 5-mile run/fun walk event will once again take place on the beautiful grounds of Strawtown Koteewi Park. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase and free entertainment and activities will be provided throughout the event. The evening will culminate with awards being presented to the top finishers following completion of the run/walk.

sat 27 – sun 28 Carmel International Arts Festival Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Price: FREE Phone: (317) 600-6118 Location: Carmel Arts and Design District, Carmel www.carmelartsfestival.org Bringing together 130+ juried artists competing for top honors in their media field.

Creative designs from new and renowned artists will provide festival goers with the opportunity to view professional displays and purchase unique works of art. In addition to artist’s booths, there will be two stages providing live entertainment with an international flair, cultural exhibit’s from Carmel’s sister cities in China & Japan, a’ la carte sidewalk dining and a scholarship contest for emerging, talented artists from Carmel High School and University High School.

sat 04 Potter's Bridge Fall Festival Time: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Price: FREE! Phone: (317) 770-4400 Location: Potter's Bridge Park, Noblesville www.myhamiltoncountyparks.com Enjoy a special autumn day at Potter’s Bridge Park during the 15th annual Potter’s Bridge Fall Festival. Listen to a live acoustic performance by Alex Williams, visit the more than 70 artisans’ craft and food booths, watch your little ones play in the KidZone, or simply take in the natural beauty of Noblesville’s most scenic park on the White River Greenway Trail.

sat 11 Re-Boo! Re-Wear! Re-Scare! A Costume Swap Time: 1-4 p.m.

Price: Free admission Location: Cool Creek Park & Nature Center, Carmel www.hamiltoncounty.in.gov/department/index.php?structureid=23 Experience the fun of the annual Halloween costume swap! Bring an unwanted costume or costume accessory and SWAP it for another one. This is a great way to reuse costumes that no longer fit and save money at the same time! Tell your friends and neighbors to ensure an even better selection this year!

fri 17 Nefarious Noblesville Ghost Walk

OCTOBER fridays 03 – 10 Fishers Fall Movies In The Park Phone: (317) 567-5057 Location: Nickel Plate Amphitheater, Fishers www.fishers.in.us/index.aspx?NID=307 Bring blankets, chairs and your favorite favorite movie snacks to a fun, family movie night under the stars! Families are encouraged to arrive early and secure their seats as all movies will begin at dusk. October 3rd: Frozen; October 10th: Muppets Most Wanted.

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Time: 7-9 p.m.

Price: $13.00 - $18.00 Phone: (317) 840-6456 Location: Hamilton County Courthouse, Noblesville www.unseenpress.com From beer rooms to business, visit the places where the dead continue their spirited affairs and hear their empty voices call from beyond. Historic community buildings, bars on the square, industrial buildings, residential buildings and a final resting place make for a fascinating walk.

sat 18 – sun 26

Ride the train to a local pumpkin patch and enjoy a variety of outdoor, familyfriendly activities that include a farm animal petting zoo, face painting, and a child-size hay bale maze. Simple lunch items, hot chocolate, and cider are also available. The train remains at the pumpkin patch for about one hour. Seating on the Hamilton Harvest Train is open; however reservations are recommended.

sat 25 Annual Ghosts & Goblins 5K/2K & Wellness Fair Time: 8 a.m.

Price: $15.00 - $25.00 Phone: (317) 844-9961 x1009 Location: Carmel High School Field House http://carmelghostrun.com This race is perfect for both serious runners and walkers as well as families. Safe costumes are welcomed and prizes will be awarded to the best youth, adult, and ensemble costumes. Participants and spectators will enjoy a wide variety of vendors at the wellness fair, too!

tues 28 – thurs 30 Haunted Trails Time: 7-10 p.m.

Price: $5.00 Phone: (317) 770-4400 Location: Cool Creek Park & Nature Center, Carmel www.hamiltoncounty.in.gov/department/index.php?structureid=23 Make your way through the “boo-tiful” woods of Cool Creek Park for our annual Haunted Trails Halloween event. Ghouls and goblins are lurking at every turn and waiting for you to arrive. Trail not recommended for kids under 12, but there will be lots of non-scary activities for the little ones in the Trick-or-Treat Trail - a campfire, free hayrides and more.

*At Hamilton County Family, we work hard to ensure our calendar information is accurate. Occasionally, event specifics change after we go to press. Therefore, we encourage our readers to call locations or visit them on the web to verify information.

Ride the Hamilton Harvest Train Price: Pricing varies Phone: (317) 773 6000 Location: Fishers Train Station www.itm.org September/October 2014 | HAMILTON COUNTY FAMILY 41

the

last laugh Sometimes kids put more work into figuring out how to avoid their school assignments than actually doing them. We asked Hamilton County Family Facebook readers: Have your kids ever come up with a clever or creative excuse for why their homework didn’t get done?

“I don't need to do homework, I'm already too smart!” – said the C. student! – Brenda S. “The dog ate it” – and we don't have a dog – Michelle J. My 14 yr old always says, "I didn't know it was homework!" Hmmmm, papers your teacher sends home for you to work on..... sounds a lot like homework to me! – Molly A. “I have a paper cut on my finger and it hurts to write with that finger.” Really?!? – Maura L. My 7 yr old says, "but my brain is already FULL!" – Mandy S. "But, I did turn it in.....The teacher must have lost it." – Kathy B. My son said he couldn't do his homework because he just ate a grilled cheese sandwich and didn't want his homework to be greasy. Even after washing his hands, he kept saying he could feel the grease on them. He finally did it wearing his winter gloves. – Lucy M.

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*Cartoon by local Fishers artist Patrick Hankley of Drawpartner Graphics – www.drawpartner.com

His teacher told him “that since he is so smart he could skip homework that night.” – Alesa B. “The teacher never said we HAD to do it!”

– Megan D. My son said since the sun had already set, there wasn't enough light and he couldn't see to finish his homework. – Karen B. Last year, my youngest son tried his best to convince me he had used his brain too much that day, and it hurt. So, he couldn't do his homework.

– Malaika C. “I don't have time because I need to feed the cat!” – Rachel R.

September/October 2014 | HAMILTON COUNTY FAMILY 43