CharlottesvilleFamily November 2014

CharlottesvilleFamily T O W N & C O U N T R Y L I V I N G AT I T S B E S T

KIDS LEARNING HOW TO GIVE TO OTHERS

Local Moms Making Parenting Easier & Growing Up Fun!

SLEEP TIPS FOR BABY BUY LOCAL HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE STAY WELL THIS WINTER

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Charlottesville, Virginia’s leading farm, estate and residential brokers invite you to preview a sample of our 2014 current offerings. . .

SHADWELL MOUTAIN ESTATES -Very private, yet extremely convenient location.

Wonderful brick Colonial, with post and beam interior, over 4,200 finished sq.ft., 4 BR, 3.5 BA, on 8.7 acres, only 10 minutes from town. $749,500. Steve McLean (434) 981-1863 MLS#517904

SWEEPING MOUNTAIN VIEWS - Extraordinary architect designed, European style, stone & stucco residence, 21 park-like acres in Blandemar Estates. 4BR/4.5BA HoME boasts a magnificent great room that opens onto an elevated walk out terrace w/ panoramic views. Priced well below the cost to reproduce it. $1,595,000. Tim Michel (434) 9601124 or Jim Faulconer (434) 981-0076. MLS#512258.

EDNAM - Beautifully maintained residence in the highly sought after community of Ednam. Living room with fireplace; dining room; kitchen with adjacent tv/sunroom; first floor master; two upstairs bedrooms and two car garage. $725,000 Steve McLean (434)981-1863 MLS#520466

IVY - Home near Murray Elementary in excellent condition. Open kitchen/great room w/fireplace, sunken living room, formal dining room, 3-4 bedrooms, rec room, hardwood floors, garage, decks & beautiful landscaping. $549,000. Betsy Swett, (434) 249-2922. MLS#519787.

MCGUFFEY HILL – First floor condo within seconds of the Downtown Mall. Privately situated this light filled unit has large LR w/ FP, open kitchen w/ adjoining sunroom, DR, 2 large BR w/ adjoining baths. $599,000. Charlotte Dammann (434) 9811250. MLS#518916

HEART OF FREE UNION - 5,500+ sq.ft.

Home situated on 5+ ac. in Free Union.

Bright open floor plan & full walk-out basement. Beautiful setting w/in 15 min. of Charlottesville. $795,000. Steve McLean (434) 981-1863. MLS #518256

OFF GARTH ROAD - Impeccably maintained mostly 1-level 3 BR home privately situated on 2.76 ac. only 3 miles from C’ville, Blue Ridge view & beautiful pastoral view of adjoining horse farm. Great details in residence, formal & informal. $799,000. Jim Faulconer (434) 981-0076. MLS#519027

QUAKER RUN FARM - Magnificent Blue Ridge views, superb location near National Park, trout streams, miles of trails. Expertly restored, enlarged, and appointed 3BR, 3BA farmhouse. Large barn renovated for entertainment: kitchen, bath, exercise space, many uses, 6 stall stable, incredible setting w/ panoramic views of mountains. $979,000 Jim Faulconer (434) 981-0076. MLS#513585

HISTORIC CARRSBROOK - Built circa 1794, is one of Albemarle County’s most distinguished 18th century homes w/SW mtn & Rivanna River views 4.5 acres, pool, guest house just north of Charlottesville. On Virginia Landmarks Register & National Register of Historic Places. $995,000 . Call Steve McLean (434) 981-1863 MLS#516850.

AMMONETT MOUNTAIN - Circa 1878 4BR farmhouse on 3 acres, home remodeled and enlarged, retaining old Virginia charm.

Land is a mix of woods and pastures, bold creek, near Walnut Creek Park, excellent recreational property. $795,000. Jim Faulconer (434) 981-0076. MLS#519305

OLD GARTH ROAD -Wonderful, lightfilled contemporary perched on over 6 acres offering complete tranquility & privacy, 2 min. to City limits & Farmington Country Club. $889,500 Steve McLean (434)9811863 MLS#520140

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I Live your best.

volume 15 issue 11 PUBLISHERS

Just Between Us… This year, as our youngest has moved up to the big kid school as a kindergartner (a bigger transition perhaps for me than for him!), I’m feeling so thankful for the special moments that come especially while our kids are young: their innocent comments, their carefree running and jumping in leaf piles and their credulous belief of crazy things — like that a new Halloween pirate flag really might have meant our house had been taken over by pirates while we’d been out!

Our youngest, of course, is usually the star when it comes to saying amazing things. On a recent drive to hike Belle Isle in Richmond, everyone was getting a bit impatient and whiney in the car. He spoke right up, clear as a bell, and told his older siblings, “Well, you should just wish for a wishing star. Then you would have everything you wanted when you wanted it.” That had the whole car cracking up. We do so enjoy his views on the world and how wide open he is to every idea.

November 2014 Robin Johnson Bethke Jennifer Bryerton

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Robin Johnson Bethke EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jennifer Bryerton TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Peter D. Bethke EDITOR Jennifer Conrad Seidel EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Jennifer Slate GRAPHIC DESIGN

Erin Q. Hughes

Barbara Tompkins SALES MANAGER David Valcich ADVERTISING SALES

Karrie Bos, Lindsay Lopez,

Susan Powell, Alissa Reeves,

Brandi Washburn MARKETING & SALES COORDINATOR

Marti Pugh CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily Anness, Robin Bethke, Deborah

Bohn, Kelly Casey, Kim Connolly, Rick

Epstein, Jody Hobbs Hesler, Linda

Kobert, Blair Lonergan, Laura Merricks,

Marti Pugh, Jennifer Slate, Lauren

Thompson, Brooks Wellmon ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER Amy Duprey DISTRIBUTION Ray Whitson

With the other kids at ages 8, 12 and 15, we know this magical time will pass soon enough. My youngest really does already know deep down that his wand doesn’t work, but he still enjoys the game of it. But if I had a wishing star, I’d wish that he could — that they all could — slow down their growing up at least a little so we could have lots more times like these.

We all love the crazy things kids say, and we’re guessing that you have many treasured stories to share, too, so we’re planning a new column where you can send in favorite quotes from and photos of the beloved little ones in your life. Watch Facebook and our e-newsletter for more details on how you can share these with us and your fellow readers.

Have a beautiful Thanksgiving,

CharlottesvilleFamily™ Magazine and CharlottesvilleFamily.com™ are published jointly by Ivy Publications, LLC. CharlottesvilleFamily. com™ is published weekly online at www.CharlottesvilleFamily. com, the weekly Newsletter is distributed via email, and the Magazine is published in print format 12 times per year along with a CharlottesvilleFamily.com™ Directory. The views and opinions expressed by the writers and advertisers do not necessarily represent those of CharlottesvilleFamily magazine, its officers, staff or contributors. The information presented here is for informational purposes only and although every effort has been made to present accurate information, we do not in any way accept responsibility for the accuracy of or consequences from the use of this information or for the businesses and organizations presented herein. We urge all parents to confirm any information given herein and consult with your doctor or an appropriate professional concerning any information of question. All images not credited are property of and provided by Thinkstock by Gettyimages. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in part or in whole without the express written consent of the publisher. Copyright ©2014. All rights reserved.

We welcome reader comments, submissions and the support of advertisers!

Please direct all correspondence to Ivy Publications, LLC 4282 Ivy Road, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903 voice 434.984.4713 fax 434.984.4813 www.CharlottesvilleFamily.com editor@IvyPublications.com We reserve the right to refuse or edit any materials submitted to us that we deem inappropriate for our audience. Include a SASE with any submission to be returned. We do not accept responsibility for unsolicited materials.

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November 2014

Jen Fariello

2004 Community Award Winner

TABLE OF

Contents OUR TOWN

LIVING WELL

News 8

The Buzz Around Town 10 Do you give money to panhandlers

when your children are with you?

Cool Stuff 30 Great Toys, Gadgets, Books and More

Healthy Family 34 Stay Healthy This Season

Snapshot 12

Wendy Saz

New Mom 36 Getting Newborns to Sleep

Our Schools 15

Bumble on the Fly 18

Out & About Calendar 20

Bumble Around the Community

November Activities & Events for Families

Tasty Traditions 48 Thanksgiving Recipes from Our Table to Yours

Thanks and Giving 52 Abundant Life Students Learn and Earn

Editor’s Pick!

Local kids are doing amazing things for others! Read about them in our news section (page 8), in our volunteer column (page 16) and in “Thanks and Giving” on page 52.

Trim That Tree! 24

INSPIRATION

Renaissance School Students Sweep UVA Synthetic Biology Competition

Bravo! 16

Feeding Local Families at

Loaves & Fishes: Maggie Murray

38

Real Kids, Real Solutions 58 Exploring UVA’s Sheila C. Johnson Center

Funny, Exasperating

& Adorable 64 Understanding the Behaviors of

Toddlers and Preschoolers

Happy Holidays 72

Tips for Getting That Perfect

Holiday Portrait

Local Farms Offer Holiday Trains, Candy Canes and More

RESOURCES

Family Tree 38 Stories That Hit Home

Tips & Trends 42 Fabulous Finds and Fun

Special Needs Guide 61 Local Resources for Health

Home & Garden 44 Putting Your Garden to Bed for Winter

Buy Local Shopping Guide 32

Gift Ideas for Everyone on Your List

and Learning

Guide to Preschools 67 Places to Play, Learn and Grow

UNTIL NEXT TIME

30

Want a Ride to the Mall? 78 You’ll Have to Catch Me!

So Love This!

I was delighted to see that a local jeweler at McGuffey makes charms from children’s original artwork for bracelets, eyeglass chains and even key chains.

— Jennifer Conrad Seidel, Editor

52 CharlottesvilleFamily.com

7

{our town community}

NEWS

­the local buzz

Each fall, Tandem middle schoolers travel by train to explore culturally rich cities and participate in service projects. Although the seventh graders spent some of their time in Washington, D.C., visiting historic sites and museums, they gave a full day of their trip to serving the homeless in the capital. Says teacher and trip coordinator Tom Spivey, “Our service work this year included preparing food at the D.C. Central Kitchen, which distributes thousands of meals daily to poor and homeless D.C. residents, plus a classroom session on homelessness led by trained facilitators. Follow­ ing the classroom session, the facilitators led us in handing out toiletry kits to homeless people in Franklin Park. This direct interaction with homeless people helps the kids put a face on the problem and to see the homeless as individuals rather than statistics.” Jack Heaphy, a seventh-grader, says, “It felt great to be helping people less fortunate than me. It made me happy to be able to make them smile.”

The eighth graders traveled to Philadelphia, where they explored historic and cultural locations relevant to their curriculum and served alongside students from the 325-year-old Friends Select School. “They get to understand the statistics of homeless in America as presented by a national expert in the field,” says teacher Mark Drexel, coordinator for the trip. “They get to have a great time, build relationships, develop empathy and make some memories that will last a lifetime.”

8

November 2014

Deneen Bivona

Tandem Middle Schoolers Serving in D.C., Philly

Going for Gold A student at the University of Virginia is making a world of difference for soccer enthusiasts in Scottsville, thanks to her hard work as a Girl Scout (Scottsville Troop 9362). Eighteen-year-old Porter Dickie, a third year at UVA who was homeschooled in Albemarle County, raised $40,000 to build a full-size intramural field in Scottsville. The project took two years and resulted in her earning the Girl Scout Gold Award. This award represents the highest achievement in Girl Scouting, recognizing girls who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through projects that have sustainable impact in their communities. Dickie is also a writer and senior associate photography editor of UVA’s Cavalier Daily newspaper.

Con-GRAD-ulations Are in Order The on-time graduation rate for Albemarle County’s public high school students has increased for the fourth time in a five-year period. In 2014, 94.8 percent of students graduated on time, and the division’s dropout rate decreased to 2.3 percent — placing the county grads in the top 10 percent of high school students in Virginia. On-time graduation rates for Charlottesville City Schools have increased to 88.8 percent, and the drop-out rate was cut in half to 5.6 percent. The statewide numbers for 2014 for all school divisions were 89.9 percent on-time graduation and a drop-out rate of 5.4 percent.

National, state and local SAT scores for 2014 public high school graduates were released in October, too. Results are shown in the graph at right.

We are delighted to welcome Stephanie Grice, M.D. Dr. Grice is a board certified pediatrician and sees patients in Charlottesville and Crozet

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9

{our town voices} Jefferson Obstetrics & Gynecology, LTD

The

Buzz

AROUND

TOWN Do you give money to panhandlers when your children are with you?

Please call to schedule an aPPointment.

new Patients are welcome!

Caring for Women through all stages of life Matthew T. Montgomery, MD Michael L. Arnold, MD Robert R. Heider, MD

27% say “yes” 73% say “no” I tell them that we are very lucky to have all that we do and that others are not as lucky as we are. If can help a little, we should.

We make bags of non-perishable food and bottled water. When we see people in need, the kids get one of the bags and pass it to Jane in Ivy the person.

Concerned mother of two

I let my daughter give a dollar if there is music involved and she stops to listen. I want to encourage her that all kinds of things are considered art and there are many ways to support the arts.

I have explained to my children that there are community programs and places for these people to go to for help and that I happily give to those organizations.

Flower Mom

Amber, Staunton, mother of three

Kelly A. Owens, MD James M. Culver, MD Christy Wamhoff, MD Brooke S. Kilfoil, MD

I want my children to learn compassion, and We talk to our children about the experience I’ve found the best way to teach them is when it happens and about charitable giving through example. in appropriate forums.

Cori C., Charlottesville, mother of three

Mom of two, Charlottesville

Sue A. Woodson, CNM Pat Dougherty, CNM, MSN 600 Peter Jefferson Pkwy, Suite 290

434.977.4488

www.jeffersonobgyn.net 10

November 2014

Visit CharlottesvilleFamily.com to answer next month’s question:

Does your child get a flu shot?

{our town community} Sports ZONE Local Girl Wins Another Tennis 10U Tennis Title

Equipping Life & Adventure www.GreatOutdoorProvision.com

Barracks Rd In October, 9-year-old Vivian Hui — who won the Virginia State tennis championship in August — took the title at the first USTA MidAtlantic 10U Singles Orange Ball

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Championship. Hui, the #1 seed, took the title after beating both the DC Orange Ball District Champion (6-2) and the Maryland 10U Orange Ball Champion (6-1) on 60-foot courts.

Hui, who attends Cale Elementary and is coached by Christopher “Cubby” Cubbage, is now ranked #7 among Mid-Atlantic 10U girls. She began playing at age 7 in a Matilda Blue Tennis Kids Club program and has participated in day and summer programs offered by QuickStart Tennis of Central Virginia. Her mom, Wen Wang, says, “She has been growing fast in a supportive coachparents environment. It is amazing to see her learning not only tennis techniques, but also how to handle winning and losing at this age.”

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11

{our town community}

SNAPSHOT written & photographed by Laura Merricks

Wendy Saz Wendy Saz, manager of the Crozet Library, goes to work in a beautiful building designed to reflect the surrounding countryside — and made possible by its community. After almost losing their library due to funding and space constraints, Crozetians fought for a new building and raised almost $1.6 million to furnish and stock it. Saz likens the September 2013 kickoff to “the magic of opening a children’s pop-up book.”

Saz — who was the Northside children’s librarian before coming to Crozet — credits “the most amazingly talented and dedicated staff

find it helpful to fit in some simple stretching exercises and, if time

possible” for 2,040 new library cards and a circulation increase of 83

allows, a walk. Walking, and even just stretching, helps me clear my

percent. And the library provides programs for people at every age

mind and prepares me for the day.

and stage. “This past year, we made national news with our Exam Cram Program, staying open late for students during exam week and

What is one thing your parents did that you try to incorporate

providing safe, quiet spaces and study snacks,” she adds.

into your parenting?

Saz came to library work by accident: When an elbow injury forced

My parents both allowed us time for open, honest communication.

her to take a break from her cello studies, she took a graduate class in

My dad, an accomplished scientist and a kind and compassionate

library science. She lives with her husband, John Dean, and has two

person, was always ready to listen and answer any question

grown children (Laura Eve and Seth), two stepdaughters (Sarah and

— whether from a 4- or 40-year-old. He’d answer in a patient,

Laura) and three dear step-grandchildren (Emil, Spencer and Elizabeth).

thoughtful, honest, respectful way. My mom also had an open ear and an open mind. Though my children would be the best judges of

What is one practice you’ve put in place to get quality time

whether I successfully modeled this in my parenting, I hope they

with your children?

would say they have benefitted from this style of communication.

When my children started school, I allowed them two days per year to stay home and have one-on-one time with me. We called these “Laura-

If you had a 25-hour day, what would you do with that extra

Mama Days” and “Seth-Mama Days.” Even though they are both

hour?

grown and on their own, we still try to sneak in some “Laura-Mama”

I’d sit and watch the sunset from my screened-in porch, touch base with

and “Seth-Mama” time when we can.

friends and family members and steal just one additional moment to fully take in the beauty that’s a life.

What routine or habit helps you keep on top of family and work obligations?

12

I’d have a hard time making it through the day without my calendar,

Laura spent much of her childhood in her hometown public library,

numerous lists, a good night’s sleep and great work colleagues. I also

since her dad was the director.

November 2014

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{our town community} VA Institute of Autism Expands

Private Music Lessons Performance Workshops

In September, the Virginia Institute of Autism celebrated the grand opening of its new 11,700-square-foot Remson Court location, which offers outpatient and adult services. The Outpatient Behavioral Services (OBS) team has added six autism

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experts who provide after-school and inhome autism services. This team works with children across the autism spectrum and supplements individual services with group opportunities like social skills

Your Choice for Favorite RealtoR®

groups, summer camps and sibling support

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program expansion at the main Westwood Road campus. To learn more, contact VIA at 923-8252 or visit viaschool.org.

— Domenico and Catherine, Sellers in Old Trail, June 2014

Thanks for voting me a Favorite again in 2013!

2013

434.960.4333

Roy Wheeler Realty Co.

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Healthy Married Couples Married couples are needed for an MRI research study designed to explore the relationship between genetic and hormonal influences on brain function, and how this is influenced by holding a spouse’s hand. The study consists of one visit involving MRI and a blood draw; the study is run every Tuesday morning from 8:30–11am.

To be eligible, you must be: • a married (heterosexual) couple • not pregnant • Caucasian • ages 18-35 For information, contact handholdingMRI@virginia.edu

Couples will receive $100 compensation.

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Blue Ribbon Winner The Charlottesville Catholic School was recognized on September 30

by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan as a National Blue Ribbon School for academic excellence.

Only 50 private schools across the country are awarded this honor annually. This is the second time the school has been recognized with this achievement. Charlottesville Catholic School is the only school in the Charlottesville and Richmond areas to receive this recognition for 2014. The U.S. Department of Education will honor the school, along with 287 public and 49 additional private schools, at a recognition ceremony on November 10 and 11 in Washington, D.C.

14

November 2014

Our Schools ess

by Emily Ann

Renaissance School Students Sweep UVA Synthetic Biology Competition Synthetic biology can be a controversial topic, but not for Renaissance School’s DNA Science class. Synthetic biology is an emerging

engineering discipline involving the redesign and construction of biological systems. In collaboration with University of Virginia, the class of eight students spent the 2013–14 school year studying DNA — the carrier of genetic instructions — and how DNA can be manipulated to solve real problems. Last year’s research included going to Charlottesville’s water-treatment facility, getting samples and finding a way to manipulate DNA to create a bacteria that would clean waste water economically, as well as give the facility a renewable energy source.

Over the summer, the class went to the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) Jamboree at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. iGEM is a competition for college and high school students to showcase their synthetic biology research.

Among only 35 other high school teams from around the world, Renaissance School’s DNA class presented their water-treatment project.

The DNA class also participated in University of Virginia’s Synthetic Biology night on September 24, presenting posters in the “What Can Synthetic Biology Do for You?” high school exhibition that conveyed ideas for modifying E. coli bacteria so that it would perform beneficial functions. Naked mole rats with a cure for cancer, spider silk for making bulletproof clothes, using the hormone leptin to cure obesity — these and many other ideas were entered into the contest. All three top prizes were awarded to Renaissance School students. Lauren Ewell won first prize, Jessica Prax won second prize, and Alex Manchester won honorable mention. Says Ewell, whose interests reach beyond the lab, “I love learning about the ethics behind synthetic biology and manipulating DNA!” This year Renaissance School’s DNA Science class will again work on a synthetic biology solution to a real-world problem, engaging students in advanced research.

Emily, a member of the DNA class, is an 11th-grade student at the Renaissance School.

Celebrating Arts Accomplishments Each fall, the area’s best high school artists are honored by their

Albemarle; Ben Culver, Alex Espinosa and Genevieve Lewis from

teachers and the Piedmont Center for the Arts for excellence in

Monticello High School; Dorothy Sysling from Murray High School;

and commitment to one or more of several genres, including

Theo Trotter from Renaissance School; Emily Battle, Brielle Costello

visual arts, film, drama, music and writing. This year’s winners of

and Yiyi Wei from St. Anne’s-Belfield School; Edward Diven from

the 2014 Arthur C. Greene Rising Star Youth Incentive Award are

Tandem Friends School; and Brennan Reid and Seamore Zhu from

Allison Moore, Kira Nolan, Colette Rogers and Joey Wharton from

Western Albemarle High School. In addition, three nonprofit arts

Albemarle High School; Geneva Knight, Sydney Saunders, Kadin

organizations also nominated local youth this year. Those winners

Sullivan from Charlottesville High School; Mason Martin and Jacob

are Light House Studio’s Will Jones (CHS), Live Arts’ Daniel Neale

Sawyer from Covenant School; Marta Regn from Miller School of

(CHS) and Tupelo Press Teen Writing Center’s Heather Walton (MHS).

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

15

{our town volunteeers} Whether it’s purchasing your first home or refinancing for a new kitchen, debt consolidation to make a fresh start, or to pay for a college education, Hal Johnson continues to help his neighbors finance their dreams.

Bravo!

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Feeding Local Families at Loaves & Fishes Ask Maggie Murray, a sophomore at Albemarle High School, why she has volunteered at Loaves and Fishes food pantry for more than two years, and she will tell you it is because of the people she meets there. “I started coming to get community service hours for school,” Murray says, “but now I keep coming because I like it.” She has also recruited fellow students to join her there.

Murray’s favorite job on a typical Saturday is working with the clients — helping them check items off the grocery list they have received from the volunteers in the front office. At other times, she is filling bags with donated and purchased fresh produce, meats and dry goods or walking people to their cars and helping them load their groceries. On a recent Saturday, the pantry distributed food to about 100 clients representing almost 350 family members. (The pantry is open on some weekdays, too.)

The stated mission of Loaves and Fishes food pantry is “to give food with kindness and compassion to those seeking assistance while providing an opportunity for

volunteers

to

serve

their

neighbors

in

Charlottesville and surrounding communities.”

For Murray, the relationships she has formed with the clients of the food pantry, as well as with her fellow volunteers, keep her coming back every week.

Kim is the vice president of marketing and communications at the United Way-Thomas Jefferson Area.

16

November 2014

To learn more, visit cvilleloavesandfishes.org or email volunteers@ cvilleloavesandfishes.org.

Biz BI TS

Now Open

Studio Eleven on the Downtown Mall has closed.

Bold Rock, taproom serving locally made

hard cider, 1020 Rockfish Valley Highway

Trade at North Wing Barracks has closed.

(Rt. 151), Nellysford, boldrock.com

Announcements

Kuma, pan-Asian restaurant and karaoke bar, 12 Elliewood

The Charlottesville Albemarle Convention & Visitors

Avenue, 328-2741, kumacville.com Long & Foster Real Estate, an independent residential real estate company, longandfoster.com World of Beer, restaurant and bar, 852 W. Main Street, 970-1088, worldofbeer.com

Bureau received a Travel Weekly Gold Magellan Award in the Destination Marketing Promotional Video category for its “Stay” video campaign.

Piedmont Council for the Arts has named Gram Slaton to the position of executive director.

R. E. Lee & Son has named Richard (Dick) Abidin as

Changes & Relocations Brookville on the Downtown Mall is discontinuing lunch service but will still serve brunch and dinner.

president.

Michael Guthrie, CEO and Broker of Roy Wheeler Realty, was recognized as the 2014 Virginia Association of Realtors Manager of the Year.

Ryan Buckwalter, DDS, purchased the dental practice of Thomas Starkey, DDS, which is now known as Buckwalter and Starkey Dentistry.

The University of Virginia Curry School of Education received a $6.1 million grant from the National Institutes of Justice to help fund two research projects for school safety.

No. 3 on the Corner has been sold and renamed Poe’s Public House.

Children Youth and Family Services (cyfs.org) has changed

Submit Biz Bits to editor@IvyPublications.com.

its name to ReadyKids.

Developing rhythm, balance, and artistic expression. Or as they see it,

Discipline, character, fitness, fun

Join one of Cville’s fastest growing youth organizations!

Wrestling for ages 5 & up, at UVA and AHS.

(434) 242-7987

www.cavalierwrestlingclub.org

The Little Gym years reach their greatest potential. Structured lessons, unique themes and a nurturing environment build confidence during each stage of childhood.

Introductory Experience for only $40 Check out the Jazzy Beasts class for ages 2-3!

The Little Gym of Charlottesville www.thelittlegym.com/charlottesvilleva 434-975-5437

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

17

{our town community} CharlottesvilleFamily Employee Raises Funds for Pediatric Cancer Research

BUMBFLlEy

Bumble and all of us here at

on the

CharlottesvilleFamily are excited to support our own Lindsay Lopez in her work to raise funds for pediatric cancer research. Lindsay and her husband,

by Marti Pugh

Alfredo, shaved their heads to raise funds through the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. St. Baldrick’s began in 1999 when two businessmen challenged their co-workers to find a way to give back in response to their successes.

A challenge was presented — shave their heads to

Events We’re Sponsoring!

raise funds and awareness for pediatric cancer. Fifteen years and a million heads shaved later, St. Baldrick’s

CharlottesvilleFamily and Bumble are proud to sponsor several

has raised over $34 million for their cause.

wonderful, family-friendly events this month. Find more

Lindsay (a sales consultant) and Alfredo have a

information in the Out & About section on page 20.

dear friend whose child passed away from cancer, so

Hope to see you there!

funding provided by St. Baldrick’s organization is very

Berenstein Bears Live!

“The Wizard of Oz”

close to their hearts. Unfortunately, more children are

November 21

November 23

lost to cancer than any other disease. In fact, every

at the Paramount Theater

at the Paramount Theater

three minutes a child is diagnosed with cancer. If

Mistletoe Market

The Toy Lift

their efforts, donate at stbaldricks.org/donate/participant

November 23

December 5

/735980/2014. Bumble is very proud of Lindsay and her

at Boar’s Head Inn

at Charlottesville Fashion Square

efforts and is proud that Ivy Publications donated $100

you would like to support Lindsay and Alfredo in

and many of us donated personally, too!

Bumble and Friends Make a Donation to the Shelter for Help in Emergency To celebrate a summer of exemplary staff teamwork, the publishers, Jen and Robin, made a $500 donation to a local nonprofit on behalf of all of us at Ivy Publications in September. We considered many different organizations and decided on the Shelter for Help in Emergency (SHE) because of all the wonderful things they do to support and empower victims of domestic violence.

SHE began in 1978 with a help line to support women in abusive situations. Within six months, the need for temporary shelter was overwhelming and a task force put together by Charlottesville, Albemarle and surrounding counties began renting a shelter for $1. SHE now assists about 5,000 women annually. Learn more about SHE at shelterforhelpinemergency.org.

18

November 2014

Be sure to come see Bum when h ble e visits Virginia the Discove ry Muse Novembe um on r 2 1 , 4-5pm Your fav . orite be e will b out Bum e giving ble stick ers to a of the v ll isitors w ho come to see h im!

registration open!

start class noveMBer 17!*

Build Confidence gain Poise Have FUn!

neW! ‘FROZEN’ Ballet/Jazz Ballet/Tap Ages 5 - 7 Adult Dance Fitness Classes! *Start classes the week of November 17 and dance with us in the Spring Performance!

2013

REGISTER NOW!

CALL 973-5678 or regiSter online at

WilsonSchoolofDance.com

Fashion and performance for the active life, from the hottest designers, including: Oakley, Maui Jim, Gucci, Fendi, Burberry, Tom Ford, Ray Ban, Coach, and Kate Spade — in your prescription!

Yes! Benny® Cards and Flex Spending accounts often include coverage for eyeglasses and contact lenses. Ask us!

1450 Sachem Place | (434) 978-4090 & 600 Peter Jefferson Pkwy | (434) 975-2420 | www.recordeyecare.com

Charlottesville Catholic School

Faith Knowledge Community

Be an InsIder Get the latest updates on area fun and news!

Visit us at CharlottesvilleFamily.com and sign up for our weekly E-Newsletter packed with calendar highlights, daytrip ideas, and much more!

And don’t forget to LIKE us on Facebook.com/CharlottesvilleFamily

Educating the mind ~ Nurturing the soul

• Now accepting applications for 2015-16 school year • Serving Pre-Kindergarten – 8th Grade 434.964.0400 | info@cvillecatholic.org | www.cvillecatholic.org

2013

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

19

&

{our town calendar}

Out

About November 2014

THANKSGIVING Virginia Thanksgiving Festival

November 2, 12-4:30pm at Berkeley Plantation Visit the site of the first official Thanksgiving in America for a day dedicated to history, food and fun with tours. 888-466-6018 virginiathanksgivingfestival.com

Christmas Town at Busch Gardens

November 21-December 31, select dates at Busch Gardens, Williamsburg Seven million glittering lights, entertaining shows and traditional Christmas culinary delights. 800-343-7946, buschgardens.com

Fall Mini Pie Making Workshop

Wells Fargo Holiday Heritage Parade

November 23, 2-5pm at Crozet Mudhouse Learn some new tricks before Thanksgiving that will be sure to please the crowd. For teens and adults. Registration required.

823-2240, crozetminipies.eventbrite.com

November 22, 10am on the Downtown Mall Celebrate our national and community history and culture with marching bands, floats, living history performers and more.

295-9073, downtowncharlottesville.net

Thanksgiving on the Mountain

Annual Holiday Parade

November 26-30 at Wintergreen Resort Traditional feasts, the grand illumination of the courtyard, holiday workshops and more family fun. 325-8180, wintergreenresort.com

November 28, 9:30am at Barracks Road Shopping Center Enjoy this hometown parade with colorful floats, local celebrities, marching bands and more. 977-0100, barracksroad.com

Earlysville 5k Turkey Trot

November 27 in Earlysville 8:30am kid’s race, 9am 5k. Benefits the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank. charlottesvillemultisports.com

The Boar’s Head Turkey Trot

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

Charlottesville’s Grand Illumination

November 27, 9am at the Boar’s Head Inn Run or walk the 5k course to raise money for the UVA Children’s Hospital. Early registration is recommended. 972-2237 dominiondigital.com/turkeytrot

November 28 at the Downtown Mall Kick off the holidays by watching the grand illumination of the community’s Christmas tree and Mall-length holiday lights. 5-7pm activities for children in Winter Wonderland; 6pm Grand Illumination at Central Place.

825-3082, downtowncharlottesville.net

Poinsettia Open House

November 28-29, 8am-5pm at Milmont Greenhouses Poinsettias, Brunswick stew, homemade donuts, door prizes and more. 540-943-8408 milmont.com

GardenFest of Lights

November 28-January 12, 5-10pm at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden Enjoy a sparkling tradition of more than half a million lights throughout the garden. Closed Dec. 24 & 25. lewisginter.org

Deck the Halls

November 29, 10am-5pm at Early Mountain Vineyards Festive music, mulled wine, homemade chili, photos with Santa, local crafts and horse-drawn wagon rides. 540-948-9005 earlymountain.com

Visit with Santa

November 29-December 30, Saturdays 12-4pm at the Market at Grelen Visit Santa and his sleigh while you pick out your Christmas greenery. 540-672-5462 themarketatgrelen.com

Gingerbread Trail

Deadline of December 4, 6pm Entries must be dropped off at CPC office (108 5th St. NE) by deadline. This year houses will be displayed in downtown business storefront windows. dbacville@gmail.com

Toy Lift at Fashion Square Mall

December 5, 7am-8pm Bring an unwrapped new toy or make an online donation to help make a local child’s holiday bright. CharlottesvilleFamily is proud to sponsor. 975-8697, kidslift.org

Boar’s Head Inn

MARKETS & BAZAARS Divine Consign Fall Sale

November 1, 3-4, Saturday 9am-3pm, Monday & Tuesday 11am-7pm at Aldersgate United Methodist Church This biannual consignment sale offers home decor and women’s accessories. cvilledivineconsign.com

Gobble!

Gobble!

20

November 2014

WVPT Holiday Auction

Turkey Trot November 27, 9am at The Boar’s Head Inn See this page

November 6-18.

Bid online for amazing deals and gift ideas.

877-265-1055, auction.wvpt.net

SATURDAY • NOVEMBER 29, 2014 • 10AM - 5PM

FESTIVE MUSIC Rick LaRue and his five piece band will be playing classic holiday tunes.

10AM - 3PM

HOLIDAY FARE The Market Place will be serving EMV mulled wine, homemade Wolf Creek chili, and more...

SAY CHEESE! Get your photo with Santa, provided by Gitchell's Studio.

SHOP LOCAL! Over 30 local exhibitors and crafters will be selling their unique, hand-crafted merchandise for your Holiday shopping needs!

ALL ABOARD! Harmon’s Hayrides and Carriages will provide horse-drawn wagon rides around the vineyard.

12PM - 3PM

Earlymountain.com 6109 Wolftown-Hood Road, Madison, VA 22727 | 540.948.9005

{our town calendar} books, recordings, games and puzzles, and more. 977-8467, jmrlfriends.org

Holiday Market

November 22-December 20, Saturdays, 8am-1pm, Second and Water Streets 970-3371, charlottesville.org

James F. Smith

Mistletoe Market

Happy Holidays

November 23, 11am-4pm at Boar’s Head Inn Checking off your holiday shopping list in a festive environment featuring local merchants and artisans. Tickets: $5 in advance, $8 at the door; mimosa pre-sale $25 in advance; cookies with Santa 2-3pm $20 in advance.

CharlottesvilleFamily is proud to sponsor.

971-2937, jlcville.org

Annual Holiday Bazaar

Annual Holiday Parade November 28, 9:30am at Barracks Road Shopping Center See page 20

Indoor Flea Market

November 8, 8am-1pm at Carver Rec Center The traditional outdoor yard sale comes inside. charlottesville.org/parksandrec

40 artisans in 22 studios will be opening their doors during this weekend-long event.

973-6846, artisanstudiotour.com

Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale 20th Annual Artisans Studio Tour

November 8-9, 10am-5pm in Charlottesville and surrounding counties

November 8-16, 10am-7pm at Gordon Avenue Library Jump start your holiday shopping by browsing

December 6, 10am-4pm at Charlottesville Waldorf School Gift-making activities for children and adults, puppet show, raffle and local artisans’ gifts for sale. cwaldorf.ejoinme.org/tickets

STAGE & SCREEN Magic Tree House: Space Mission

November 1-29, Saturdays, 11am & 1pm at James Madison University, Harrisonburg Full-dome film presentation of Jack and Annie’s journey through the universe.

540-568-6211, jmu.edu/planetarium

Mark your calendar!

Friday 4-9pm Saturday 2-9pm Sunday 1-7pm

We do private birthday parties & corporate groups!

270 Zan Road (old Office Depot) Charlottesville 434-973-1111 . bouncenplayofcville.com 22

November 2014

February 15, 2015

Family Matinee: The Neverending Story

The Berenstain Bears Live! in Family Matters the Musical

November 4, 3pm at Central Library Free fresh popcorn and a fabulous film on the big screen. 979-7151, jmrl.org

November 21, 6pm at The Paramount Theater This heartwarming musical combines life lessons from the bear family favorites.

CharlottesvilleFamily is a proud sponsor.

979-1333, theparamount.net

Family Night at the Movies: Disney’s Peter Pan

November 4, 6:30pm at Northside Library Bring a blanket and pillows and settle in for a family-friendly movie. Popcorn and drinks provided. 973-7893, jmrl.org

Little Women

November 21-December 14 at Four County Players The March sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy, learn together that family is the greatest gift of all. 540-832-5355, fourcp.org

Family Day at the Virginia Film Festival November 8, various times at UVA’s Casteen Arts Grounds, Culbreth Rd Fun activities and free screening of “The Wizard of Oz.” Register in advance for free film-inspired workshops. 924-3376 virginiafilmfestival.org

The Wizard of Oz

November 23, 2pm at The Paramount Theater Dorothy and friends on the big screen.

CharlottesvilleFamily is a proud sponsor.

979-1333, theparamount.net

Amadeus

The Nutcracker Suite

November 14-16, Friday-Saturday 8pm, Sunday 3pm at Albemarle High School Tony-award winning play about the life of Mozart. ahspresents.com

December 13 & 14 and December 20 & 21 at Historic State Theater, Culpeper and PVCC Join Clara on her magical journey to the Land of Sweets and enjoy the beautiful music of Tchaikovsky’s score. Saturday 3 and 7pm, Sunday 4pm at Culpeper’s Historic State Theater; December 20 & 21, Saturday 11am and 3:30pm, Sunday 2 and 5pm at Piedmont Virginia Community College. Class with Clara children’s event before some performances.

227-7592, charlottesvilleballet.org

Annual Best of Both Worlds Dance and Step Competition

November 15, 4pm at The Paramount Theater Some of the top college, high school and community dance and step teams throughout the region will share the stage. 825-0650 danceandstepcompetition.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS Fee Free Day

November 11 at Shenandoah National Park Enjoy the park without having to pay an entrance fee in honor of Veterans Day. 540-999-3500, nps.gov

UVA Football vs. Miami

November 14 at Scott Stadium Cheer on our ‘Hoos at home. virginiasports.com

UVA Women’s Volleyball

November 14, 21, 23 at Memorial Gym Cheer on the ’Hoos at home against Virginia Tech (Nov. 14-7pm), Georgia Tech (Nov. 217pm) and Pittsburgh (Nov. 23-1pm). virginiasports.com

UVA Men’s Basketball

November 16, 18, 21 and 25, 7pm at John Paul Jones Arena Cheer on our ‘Hoos at home against Norfolk State (Nov. 16), South Carolina State (Nov. 18), George Washington (Nov. 21) and Tennessee State (Nov. 25). virginiasports.com

Continued on page 26

le W ald o r

30th

10am–4pm

fS

oo

ar

t

v il

l

Ch

o

s te

ch

l

Saturday, Dec. 6 Sneak Preview Shopping Event

Friday,Dec. 5 6–9pm

Gift making for Children & Adults 2014

Jump-rope making | Leather stamping | Secret garden Puppet show | Candle dipping | Raffle Local artisans with handmade gifts for the Holidays

FREE ADMISSION + PARKING*

*Complimentary park-and-ride shuttle service from the Charlottesville Catholic School

120 Waldorf School Road [across from Pen Park] activity tickets are available for pre-sale at

cwaldorf.ejoinme.org/tickets

+ check out the Charlottesville Holiday Bazaar Event on Facebook!

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

23

{our town calendar}

Trim That Tree !

Local Farms Offer Holiday Trains, Candy Canes and More Adventure Farm 466-3989, adventurefarm.net Virginia grown Fraser Fir trees, wreaths and roping. Farm shop has farm-raised beef and local wine.

Thurs.-Sun. 11am-5pm.

Long Meadow Tree Farm, Waynesboro 540-649-4307 Choose from White and Scotch Pine, Norway and Blue Spruce, Concolor and Douglas Firs. Pre-cut Fraser Firs, handmade wreaths and table arrangements. 10am-dark, every day starting Nov. 26.

Bees & Trees Farm, Elkwood 540-423-9020, beesandtrees.biz Choose from Canaans, fresh-cut Frasers, Norway Spruce, Leyland Cypress, and Scotch and White Pines. Fresh wreaths and garlands. Farm shop, s’mores, photo ops in the historic sleigh and complimentary cider. Santa visits Dec. 14, 1-4pm. Nov. 27-Dec. 23, Wed.-Sun., 9am-5pm. See ad page 25.

The Market at amFog, Afton 540-456-7100, themarketatamfog.com Pick up a fresh cut Fraser Fir or White Pine tree or a Boxwood wreath. Starting Nov. 28, Wed.-Fri., 12-6pm, Sat. 9am-5pm, Sun. 12-5pm. See ad page 79.

Boys’ Home Christmas Tree Farm, West Augusta 540-939-4106, boyshomeofva.org Choose from Norway Spruce, Eastern White Pine and Scotch Pine.

Nov. 28-Dec. 21, Fri.-Sun., 10am-4pm.

The Market at Grelen, Somerset 540-672-7268, themarketatgrelen.com Pre-order a Virginia tree to pick up after Thanksgiving and choose from a selection of handmade wreaths and swags. Santa stops by with his sleigh on Sat., 12-4pm. Nov. 29-Dec. 21, 10am-4pm Tues.-Sun. See ad page 51.

Claybrooke Farm Market, Louisa 540-872-3817, claybrookefarm.com New sales location on Main Street. Christmas trees, wreaths and other products. Santa will visit on Dec. 8 from 1-3pm. Nov. 29-Dec. 21, Mon.-Wed. 3-7pm, Thurs.-Sat. 10am-7pm, Sun. 12-7pm.

Spruce Rock Farm, Brightwood 540-543-2309, sprucerockfarm.com Cut your own Blue Spruce, Scotch Pine, and Canaan, Concolor and Douglas Firs, or select from pre-cut Fraser Firs. Hot cider and chocolate. Cash or checks only. Nov. 29-Dec. 21; 10am-4pm Sat. & Sun., weekdays by appointment.

Davis Creek Tree Farm, Lovingston 263-8762, on Facebook Choose and cut a variety of trees. Nov. 29-Dec. 24, Tues.-Sun. 10am-4pm.

Stonehearth Christmas Tree Farm, Madison 540-547-2576, on Facebook Cut your own White, Scotch and Red Pines, and Canaan Firs.

Crafts, wreaths and garland for purchase. Complimentary hot beverages and coloring books and candy canes for children. Nov. 29-Dec. 23; 9am-5pm, Sat. & Sun. Trees also available weekdays.

Foxfire Christmas Tree Farm, Scottsville 286-3445, foxfireva.net Choose and cut Norway Spruces, Douglas Firs and a limited number of pines. Wreaths and garland, too. Nov. 21-Dec. 22; Wed.-Mon., 9am-5pm; Tues. by appointment.

Greene Meadows Tree Farm, Stanardsville 990-1999, greenemeadowsfarm.com Choose from White Pine, White Spruce and Canaan Fir or fresh, pre-cut Fraser Fir and Concolor Fir. Fresh wreaths, centerpieces, swags and garland. Visit lambs and calves in the petting zoo and enjoy complimentary cocoa or cider, candy canes and coloring books. Nov. 28-Dec. 24; Fri.-Sun., 10am-5pm. See ad page 25.

24

November 2014

Experience an old-fashioned Christmas! Use our brand new saws to cut your own tree, and enjoy a complimentary cup of hot cider while browsing for decorations, gifts and crafts in our festive Christmas Shop. Roast marshmallows for S’mores or sip hot chocolate by our amazing stone fire pit and have your picture taken in a fully restored Albany Cutter sleigh.

Bring the kids for an experience they will never forget!

• Canaans • Freshly-cut Frasers • Norway Spruce • Scotch Pine • Leyland Cypress • White Pines • Fresh wreaths/garland made on the spot • Offering free shaking, bailing and twine for loading on your car

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making an appearance on December 14, 1–4pm!

9am-5pm Wed.-Sun. beginning November 27 - December 23.

BeesAndTrees.biz

18028 Carrico Mills Road, Elkwood 540-423-9020

eene Meadow r G s Farm A Traditional Christmas Experience Less than 30 minutes from Charlottesville!

choose

& cut:

White Pine White Spruce Canaan Fir

fresh pre-cut

Frazer Fir Concolor Fir

plus wreaths • swags garland •centerpieces

Open the Friday after Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve

Visit the Christmas Shop to help outfit your perfect tree.

Visit the lambs & calves in our Petting Zoo while enjoying a complimentary cup of hot cocoa or cider, a candy cane and coloring book.

Fri., Sat., Sun. 10 am - 5 pm

434.990.1999

www.greenemeadowsfarm.com CharlottesvilleFamily.com

25

{our town calendar}

The Nutcracker Suite The Historic State Theatre of Culpeper

!

Saturday, December 13 3pm & 7pm Sunday, December 14 4pm The V. Earl Dickinson Building at PVCC

!

Saturday, December 20 11am & 3:30pm Sunday, December 21 2pm & 5pm

Real Girls Half Marathon and 5k

November 23 at Darden Towe Park A run for women, ladies, girlfriends, moms, daughters and girls. badtothebone.biz

Squash Cancer Squash Tournament

November 23 at Boar’s Head Sports Club A day of fun and friendly competition featuring singles and doubles play for men, women and teens. Open to the public and players of all abilities welcome.

654-8173, mjhfoundation.org/squash-cancer

“Moms CAN Do It” Baby Boot Camp

November 24, 9:20am at Church of the Incarnation Bring four canned goods to use in this workout and then donate them to the food pantry at the church. 953-6888 babybootcamp.com/va-charlottesville.aspx

Great Santa Fun Run Plus Class with Clara Children’s Events for Boys & Girls Before Select Performances!

Photo by Stephanie Yonce

Purchase Tickets at 434.227.7592 or

www.CharlottesvilleBallet.org

2014-­‐15 Corporate Sponsors

December 7, 11am on the Downtown Mall One-mile fun run for adults and children including Santa costume or elf ears with registration. Proceeds benefit The Arc of the Piedmont. cvillesantarun.eventbrite.com

LEARNING FUN Writer’s Eye Contest

Now-November 14 at UVA’s Fralin Museum Youth in grades 3-12 can submit original poetry and prose inspired by works on view in the museum. Submissions due Nov. 21.

924-3592, virginia.edu/artmuseum

Farm and Barn History Day

Now-November 23, Saturdays, 2pm at Ivy Creek Natural Area Come enjoy the barn at Ivy Creek Natural Area. 973-7772, ivycreekfoundation.org

School’s Out Drop-In Craft Time

It Only Takes

is proud to support Toy Lift!

ONE

to make a difference this holiday season!

2014 TOY LIFT Friday, December 5, 2014 | 975-TOYS | kidslift.org 26

November 2014

November 3, 3-4pm at Central Library Drop in the Children’s Room to create beautiful button art. 979-7151, jmrl.org

Blankets and Books Evening Storytimes November 4, 18 & 25, 6:30pm at Crozet Library Wear your pajamas and snuggle in for some great stories before bedtime.

823-4050, jmrl.org

Special Night for Special Needs

November 7, 5:30-7:30pm at Children’s Museum of Richmond An evening in the museum especially for families with children 10 years old and younger who have special needs.

804-474-7000, c-mor.org

Toddler Time

November 7, 14, 21, and December 5, Fridays, 9:15-10am at Monticello Enjoy an introduction to the world of Thomas Jefferson through story time, crafts and special activities. 984-9880, monticello.org

LegoPalooza

November 15, 1-4pm at Northside Library A fun afternoon of Lego crafts and treats, Lego contest award ceremony and “The Lego Movie” at 2pm. 973-7893, jmrl.org

Star in the Opera

December 3, 4pm at Gordon Avenue Library Ash Lawn Opera’s teaching artist takes you behind the scenes of “Amahl and the Night Visitors.” For grades 2 and up. Registration required. 296-5544, jmrl.org

The Nutcracker Mini-Suite

November 15, 2-2:45pm at Crozet Library Albemarle Ballet Theatre dancers present excerpts. Learn about costumes, music and participate in a short ballet class. Registration requested. 823-4050, jmrl.org

ESPECIALLY FOR TEENS

Family Art Jam: Etching the Lyrical Line

November 13, 6-8pm at Central Library Veteran cartoonist Bill Barnes will show you how to make comic strips and publish them on the web. For teens and adults. 979-7151 jmrl.org

November 16 at Fralin Museum of Art Discuss etchings and engravings create your own using a handmade press. 1-3pm 5-7 year olds; 3-5pm 8-12 year olds. 243-2050 virginia.edu/artmuseum

Murder Mystery Night

Annual Open House

November 16 at Ash Lawn-Highland Celebrate the anniversary of the Monroe’s arrival in 1799 with free admission and meet “President Monroe.” 293-8000 ashlawnhighland.org

November 14, 7-8:30pm at Crozet Library Channel your inner detective at this annual murder mystery party. This year’s setting: school prom with Egyptian theme.

Registration required. For grades 6-12.

823-4050, jmrl.org

Be an Opera Star

Make a Moravian-Style Star

November 20, 4pm at Northside Library Ash Lawn Opera offers a behind-the-scenes look at “Amahl and the Night Visitors” with hands-on and interactive activities.

Registration required. For ages 5+.

973-7893, jmrl.org

November 17, 6:30-8:30pm at Northside Library Local artist Virginia Thompson teaches you to weave elegant stars for ornaments and decor.

Registration required. For teens and adults.

973-7893, jmrl.org

Owl Prowl

Doctor Who Party

November 20, 5-7pm at Kemper Park Trailhead, Monticello Trail Join seasoned birder Jerry Therrien for an evening of listening to the hoots, wails and shrieks of owls and learning about their habitats. 984-9800, monticello.org

InLight Richmond

November 21, 7pm-midnight in and around Monroe Park, Richmond Hundreds of artists display light-based art and performances across some of Richmond’s most unique neighborhoods and sites.

1708gallery.org/inlight/lantern-parade

Chess Saturday

November 22, 2-4pm at Central Library Stop by for some instruction and games with the Playing ACES Chess Club. Popcorn and prizes for all participants. Registration required. 979-7151, jmrl.org

Blessing of the Hounds

November 27, 10am at Grace Episcopal Church Enjoy a brief blessing ceremony, which includes bagpipes, a soloist, hounds and horses. Enjoy cider and donuts and the beginning of the hunt afterward. 293-3549 gracekeswick.org

SHOWSTOPPER IN MURRAY DISTRICT

Cartooning in the Digital Age

November 19, 7pm at Gordon Avenue Library Time Lord trivia, food, crafts and more.

Registration required. For grades 6-12.

296-5544, jmrl.org

Holiday Treats

December 3, 6:30pm at Northside Library Laurie Blakey of Pearl’s Bake Shoppe will teach you to make your own holiday treats.

Registration required. For teens and adults.

973-7893, jmrl.org

Harry Potter Yule Ball

695 VILLA DESTE DRIVE • $1,850,000 Stunning architecture and private Ivy location only minutes from UVA. This custom designed Mediterranean style home is filled with architectural details. Soaring ceilings, formal & informal spaces, first floor master, three additional bedrooms, tile and hardwood floors, four fireplaces, large screen porch, and a salt water pool. Punkie Feil (434) 9625222 or Elizabeth Feil Matthews (434) 284-2105.

CHARACTER-RICH IN VENABLE DISTRICT

915 COTTAGE LANE • $669,000 Cape Cod in sought-after Rugby neighborhood, a few short blocks to UVA. Charming finishes including wide plank pine floors, built-in book shelves, wide moldings, solid doors and custom windows. Front to back living room with large windows, cozy den, large recreation room, home office and oversized 2 car garage with walk up storage.

Lindsay Milby (434) 962-9148. MLS# 524748 SERENE SANCTUARY ON 10+ ACRES

December 5, 5:30-8:30pm at Crozet Library Enjoy a magical winter celebration and showing of the fourth movie. Costumes of all wizarding types are encouraged. Registration required. For grades 6-12. 823-4050, jmrl.org

ESPECIALLY FOR PARENTS Lunch & Learn

November 5, noon at The Market at Grelen Eat and hear talk, “Shrubs & Trees with the Best Fall Color.” 540-672-7268 themarketatgrelen.com

Charlottesville City School Board November 6, 5pm at Charlottesville High School 245-2400, ccs.k12.va.us

3025 MECHUM BANKS DR • $698,000 Savor nature from this unique home with walls of glass with light and views galore. Vaulted, beamed great room & sunroom with stone fireplace, expansive deck and screened porch; master with 3 walls of windows and private deck. Apartment for guests or rental income over garage. Meadow with fire ring and covered patio overlooks a swimming pond. Erin Garcia (434) 981-7245. MLS# 524110 4 0 1 P A R K S T R E E T • C H A R L O T T E S V I L L E , VA

434.977.4005 WWW . L O R I N GW O O D R I F F . C O M CharlottesvilleFamily.com

27

{our town calendar} Albemarle County School Board November 6, 6:30pm at Albemarle County Office Building 972-4055, k12albemarle.org

Grelen Nursery Walk & Talk

November 8, 10am at The Market at Grelen Enjoy a 3-4 mile walk around the grounds with a garden expert. Ages 9+. 540-672-7268 themarketatgrelen.com

TEDx Charlottesville

November 14 at The Paramount Theater A wide array of speakers and performers. tedxcharlottesville.com

23rd Annual MS Dinner of Champions

THE BERENSTAIN BEARS LIVE! IN FAMILY MATTERS THE MUSICAL NOVEMBER 21 • 6PM PM

November 19, 6-9pm at the Boar’s Head Inn Reception and dinner honoring award recipients Cynthia and Mark Lorenzoni.

Proceeds benefit multiple sclerosis research and local programs. 971-8011

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

(LIVE!)

DECEMBER 9 • 7:30PM

PM

TICKETS l www.theparamount.net • 434-979-1333 • 215 East Main Street

215 East Main Street Charlottesville, VA 22902

THANK YOU TO OUR PARAMOUNT PRODUCER’S CLUB SPONSORS

OPEN HOUSES Math, Engineering and Science Academy (MESA) Open House

November 3, 1-4pm at Albemarle High School On the 2nd floor of the science wing.

975-9300, k12albemarle.org/school

Covenant School Open House November 4, Tuesday 220-7330, covenantschool.org

Field School Open House

November 4, Tuesday, 9-11am 923-3435, fieldschoolcv.net

Tandem School Open House

November 4, Tuesday, 9-11:30am 951-9314, tandemfriends.org

St. Anne’s-Belfield Open House

November 4 & 6 Nov. 4, grades 5-12; Nov. 6, grades pre-K-4.

296-5106, stab.org

Village School Open House November 8, 10am-2pm 984-4404, villageschool.us

Family Art JAMs

Age-appropriate tours and hands-on art activities are fun for the whole family!

November 2014

November 12, 5-6:30pm at Monticello High 244-3100, k12albemarle.org/school

Etching the Lyrical Line

Grymes Memorial School Open House

Sunday, November 16 1–3 & 3–5 pm

November 13, 9-11am 540-672-1010, grymesschool.org

Information: www.virginia.edu/artmuseum/edu

Regents School Open House

Reservations: museumoutreach@virginia.edu or 434.243.2050

28

Health and Medical Sciences Academy (HMSA) Open House

November 18, 7pm 293-0633, regents-school.org

Submit your local events online at CharlottesvilleFamily.com or email them to Calendar@IvyPublications.com.

Coming Next Month!

Your Favorite Places to Eat, Shop & Play!

Winners Announced in the December issue of CharlottesvilleFamily!

THANKS FOR VOTING!

ff just in Enjoy this expanded Cool Stu holiday your all on ted time to get star ! ses nes busi l shopping with loca

Take an Owl to School This Beatrix New York pack is big enough to hold textbooks, pencils, crayons, lunch and even a laptop. The durable, easy-to-clean nylon interior

A Tame Tiger

has a smaller interior pocket. BPA, PVC, lead and

This 15-inch ball of squishy softness is part of a

phthalate free.

popular line of plush creatures from Squishable that

$52.00 at Peace Frogs Travel/Outfitters

includes other animals, such as narwhals, and comfort foods, like cinnamon buns. For ages 3 and up. $44.00 at Alakazam

COOL

STUFF And Cub Makes Three “Bear Hug,” written and illustrated by Katharine McEwen, is a childlike version of a bear’s life story. Picture book, ages 2–4. $15.99 at Over the Moon Bookstore

Give Your Eyes a Rest Always losing your eyeglasses? Never again! When they’re off your face, put them on this one. This sheesham wood face makes the perfect eyeglasses rest and an amusing conversation piece. $20 at Ten Thousand Villages

Notice the Details This one-of-a-kind tool for the curious, both young and old, is both rustic and elegant. Great as part of an explorer’s gear or as a distinctive desk accessory (10½ by 4 in.). $45 at Folly Home Furnishings

30

November 2014

{living well cool stuff}

Puppet Love This plush little guy from Folkmanis has places for all five digits and can turn inside out to form a ball just a like a real hedgehog does. $18.00 at Shenanigans

Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dads Even woodland creatures need pouches to carry their woodland stuff — like dental floss or art supplies.

Products from Blue Q are made from 95 percent recycled post-consumer material. $9.99 at Rebecca’s Natural Food

Coffee Candle Wouldn’t it be great to have the smell of

A Woodsy Welcome

coffee last all day? This soy candle is from

It’s nice to have your friends move in, right?

Teacups and Twine, a business run by a UVA

“A House in the Woods,” a sweet, wry tale

student, who also makes them in mason jars.

of cooperation and camaraderie, is told with

$27.50 at Les Fabriques

pastoral artwork by Inga Moore. $16.99 at Meadowbrook Pharmacy

Four-String Fun Lasting Memories

A fanciful trio of inlaid dragonflies decorate the solid spruce top of

Gift your favorite moments by having a

this ukulele from Luna, which has a mahogany back and sides.

photograph (or photo and text combination)

$169 (inc. gig bag) at Specialty Guitars Plus

engraved into wood.

From $29.99 at In a Flash Laser

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

31

{living well cool stuff}

BUY LOCAL

Whole Foods See ad page 51

guide shopping

In Your Heart and on Your Wrist Have a custom handmade sterling silver charm set in a leather bracelet by local jeweler Maria van Beek. You can also have necklaces, key chains, bottle openers and more made from your child’s artwork. $199 at Formia Design

GIFTS FOR KIDS 29 Consign See ad page 14

SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY

BY DOING MOST OF YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING AT CHARLOTTESVILLE’S MANY LOCALLY OWNED STORES!

Shenanigans See ad page 32 Vintage Swings See ad page 33

Hot Yoga See ad page 35

GIFTS FOR MOM & DAD Crozet Running See ad page 33

Rebecca’s Natural Food See ad page 50 For a great outing with your holiday visitors, take everyone to the studio to make a personalized keepsake or gift for someone special. Choose from a variety of products during studio hours.

Bounce-n-Play See ad page 22 Meadowbrook Pharmacy See ad page 79

WELLNESS GIFTS ACAC See ad page 5 Ashtanga Yoga of Charlottesville See ad page 42

Art from the Heart

Alakazam Toys See ad page 32

Great Outdoor Provision Co. See ad page 11

Gifts for the Hosts Milmont Greenhouses See ad page 50

Grelen Nursery/The Market at Grelen See ad page 51

Pottery-to-go kits also available. $40 at Lazy Daisy Ceramics

It’s a L

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guitar • bass guitar • mandolin banjo • dobro • violin ukulele • piano Get 2 FREE LESSONS ($50 value) with your purchase of an instrument! specialtyguitarsplus.com 434.979.3800 725 West Rio Road, suite 201 ChaRlottesville, va 22901

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November 2014

Advent calendars are in at

ShenaniganS 601 West Main Street Free Gift Wrap • UPS Delivery Open 7 days a week (434) 295-4797 www.shenaniganstoys.net

Happy Cook See ad page 42 Lazy Daisy Ceramics & The Paintin Place See ad page 79 The Market at amFOG See ad page 79 PHOTOGRAPHY & ART GIFTS 3 Cats Photo See ad page 75 Button Down Photography See ad page 75 Charlottesville Ballet See ad page 26 The Great Frame Up See ad page 75 KMS Photography See ad page 75 Paramount Theater See ad page 28 Specialty Guitars Plus See ad page 32 Stacy’s Music See ad page 14 POP-UP SHOPS & HOLIDAY BAZAARS Bees and Trees See ad page 25 Charlottesville Waldorf See ad page 23 Early Mountain Vineyard See ad page 21 Greene Meadows Farm See ad page 25 Mistletoe Market See ad page 25

WE WERE MADE TO RUN

WVPT Online Auction See ad page 28 GETTING READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS Grand Home Furnishings See ad page 45

run better. walk better. live better.

Leftover Luxuries See ad page 43 Les Fabriques See ad page 45 Pampered Pets See ad page 46 Pet Supplies Plus See ad page 13

crozetrunning.com | 434-205-4452 | facebook.com/crozetrunning | @CrozetRunning Located on the first floor of the Crozet Library building CharlottesvilleFamily.com

33

{living well healthy family} Stay Healthy This Season Updates on EV-D68 and Common Viruses In close-knit communities like ours, viruses tend to spread quickly. For example, this past September saw an unusual surge of severe upper respiratory infections (URI).

“We saw a number of children who started out with what seemed like a routine viral URI but who quickly got sick with severe wheezing and had difficulty breathing. Some even ended up in the hospital, and these were children who had not been in the hospital before for wheezing,” says Emily Wong, MD, a UVA Children’s Hospital pediatrician who sees patients at Northridge Medical Park.

The cause of the local outbreak was possibly enterovirus D68, a strain of a family of viruses that typically cause mild summer colds. EV-D68 has the most severe effect on children who have asthma or a history of wheezing, Wong says. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said infections from EV-D68 were confirmed last August and September in 41 states, including Virginia, and was suspected in three deaths across the country.

This EV-D68 outbreak is likely to be waning now, but November typically sees an

by Kelly Casey

increasing number of cases of influenza — another virus that spreads quickly among kids. If you and your children haven’t gotten flu shots yet, now is a good time, Wong says.

Healthy Family

“Every year in this country, somewhere there are deaths from influenza in otherwise healthy children,” Wong says. “The flu vaccine is not 100 percent protective. But it’s still the best protection that we have.”

A flu vaccine is recommended for children over 6 months old. This year, UVA offers a four-strain vaccine, which provides protection against two types of influenza B and two types of influenza A. There is also a three-strain vaccine available, but it only protects against one type of influenza B, Wong says. The influenza strains in this season’s vaccine are the same as those in last season’s (2013–14) vaccine.

If it is their first time getting the vaccine, children under 9 will need two

Prepare for Flu Season

doses of the flu vaccine containing the same strains. Children under age 3 get only half the dose of older children and adults. “At UVA, for children under 3, we use preservative-free vaccines,” Wong adds.

View an interactive map to see where flu is most prevalent, especially if you’re traveling during peak flu season (Jan.– Mar.) at www.cdc.gov/flu.

Children age 2 and older who don’t have asthma can skip the more painful shot and get the same protection from a nasal spray flu vaccine, Wong adds. But because the nasal spray flu vaccine contains live virus, it’s not recommended for children whose immune systems are compromised.

Flu vaccines are widely available. Teenagers and adults can get a flu vaccine at a local pharmacy or other flu clinic that tends to pop up this time of year. “There isn’t any benefit to waiting later in the season,”

Wong says. “Some people think if they get it now it won’t work in February.

But that’s not true. Your antibody levels will be high enough to last you through the season.”

Finally, remember good health habits. The CDC recommends these commonsense practices: Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Stay home when you are sick — and keep your kids home when they are, too. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Wash your hands often under warm water and with soap (have children sing “Happy Birthday” so they wash for 15 seconds). Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. And disinfect surfaces or objects that may be contaminated with germs.

Kelly is a medical writer for University of Virginia Health System and UVA Children’s Hospital.

For more insight on kids’ health, go to uvahealth.com/childrens.

34

November 2014

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35

{living well new mom} Getting Newborns to Sleep What I Wish I Had Known as a First-Time Mom

I can’t think of a single topic that generates more discussion — and stress — among new parents than newborn sleep. After all, the lack of sleep is one of the most shocking aspects of becoming a mom, and it’s certainly not something that we daydream about while rubbing our pregnant bellies.

After three babies and plenty of chitchat with friends and pediatricians, I’m here with some good news: All parents will experience some form of sleep deprivation over the course of a child’s first year, and it will get better.

Each baby has his own sleep personality, and what works with one infant may not with the next. As a result, life becomes easiest for all of us when we accommodate our

by Blair Lonergan

child’s preferences and reasonably adapt them to our family’s lifestyle.

First and foremost, we learn that “back is best”: We should always put our newborns to sleep on a firm, flat surface. What nobody tells us, though, is that most

New Mom

newborn babies hate to be on their backs, flailing around in a huge, hard crib. So instead of trying to stay awake all night to hold a fussy newborn, experiment with other safe options.

While bassinets and cradles work for some, many babies prefer the lightweight, easy-to-fold Fisher Price Rock n’ Play Sleeper ($59.99), which keeps the baby cozy in an upright position. One of my babies was so happy in his infant car seat that we let him sleep there for the first week of his life.

Give swaddling a try, too. Some babies sleep soundly when wrapped tightly. Others don’t like it at all, but don’t give up after one or two attempts. Use something simple like a large muslin blanket or a Velcro wrap such as the Miracle Blanket ($29.99). Combined with

“People who say they sleep like a baby usually don’t have one.”

a snug sleep space, a swaddle will make your little one warm and cozy — just like she was inside of you!

When the time comes to transition into a crib, try a sleep wedge. It slides under a fitted sheet and keeps the baby’s head elevated, easing congestion and putting your baby in a slightly

— Leo J. Burke

upright position, like when he’s in a car seat.

Whether the baby is in your room or in the nursery, a white-noise machine is great comfort. The little one is used to your pretty noisy womb, so stark silence may actually be unsettling.

Finally, pay attention to your baby’s cues and trust your instincts. Each

difficult stage will pass, and you will sleep soundly again. But if you’re genuinely concerned that your child is not getting adequate sleep or if you’re beyond exhausted yourself, be sure to ask your pediatrician about the baby’s sleep habits at your next appointment.

Blair lives in Madison, where she keeps her three sons busy with simple activities and family-friendly recipes, which she shares on her blog at theseasonedmom.com.

36

November 2014

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37

Stories That Hit Home

Helping Grandparents Share Their Memories

What better time to get around to gathering memories than

growing up? Where did you go to school? What did you like to do as a

when families are together over the holidays? It’s the perfect

child? How did you decide on the career you ended up in? Tell me about

opportunity for kids to get Grandma and Grandpa talking and to

some exciting adventure or journey.

make a project out of all that family history.

with their own lives. Talking about Great Aunt Sue’s recipe for

know how meaningful it can be to pass on family stories to

candied yams while the family enjoys Thanksgiving dinner, for

the next generation. The center focuses on independent adults

example, will help kids see how their lives tie in with those of

over the age of 60, but it hosts a number of award-winning

older generations. “How we met” stories about parents’ and

intergenerational programs for families and individuals of all

grandparents’ romances are often favorites, especially with

ages. A new project at the center encourages seniors to collect

girls. Boys often remember the sassy stories, like the one about

stories from their lives as a gift they can offer their children and

how the tree in Grandma’s back yard is so thin on the one side

grandchildren.

because Uncle Tom and Uncle Scott nearly burned it down one

“Lots of folks say, ‘Yes, I want my grandkids to know some of these things. I keep meaning to write them down, but I never

38

Kids remember these stories best if they can find connections

The folks at JABA’s Mary Williams Community Center

summer. And all kids love to hear about what their parents were like when they were the child’s age.

get around to it,’” said Karen Beiber, MWCC’s activities assistant.

And finally, be sure to make this a project for posterity by

One way to get started is to bring out photo albums and ask

recording the stories. Kids can pretend they’re movie directors

grandparents to identify all those people wearing big glasses,

as they video Grandma talking about where she grew up or

poufy hairstyles and old-fashioned clothes. Then ask about the

newspaper reporters as they interview Grandpa about his time

events in the photo to get stories flowing. If Grandma needs help

in the military. Afterward, kids can watch videos or read written

to go further down memory lane, use some wide-open prompts:

accounts and recall more about Grandma’s and Grandpa’s lives

When and where were you born? What was it like when you were

even after their holiday reunion.

November 2014

{living well family tree} ADOPT A SENIOR FOR THE HOLIDAYS Be a Santa to a Senior collects wish lists from local seniors who are without family or are economically challenged.

You can buy a requested gift and then drop it off for wrapping and delivery. beasantatoasenior.com

“Young people need something stable to hang on to — a culture connection, a sense of their own past, a hope for their own future. Most of all, they need what grandparents can give them.”

— author Jay Kesler

Family Tree

by Linda Kobert

Happy Feet

HINTS FROM MOM

Make Grandpa’s feet warm and happy with a gift of Happy Socks, made of combed cotton and available in lots of great colors and styles like argyle, paisley, stripes and polka dots. $12.00 at O’Suzannah

“ My mom suggested that I tie little bells on my toddler’s shoes so I can keep track of where she is,” says MaryAnn M., mother of two girls. “When I can’t hear anything for several minutes, I know she is up to something and I go investigate.”

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John O’Connor, the Reverse Mortgage Doctor, specializes in this product and is considered an expert in the field. “With my experience in helping literally hundreds of people obtain a reverse mortgage, I felt it was important to concentrate on our core business and not get sidetracked by offering additional types of products. That way, I could make this my area of expertise providing clients an exceptional level of service from start to finish.”

In fact, O’Connor originally helped his parents find the correct reverse mortgage 15 years ago even before he started in this industry.

“At first, I was skeptical about the product, but after doing my due diligence, I found that the reverse mortgage is a viable product for seniors who want to keep up with expenses, pay off debts and increase their quality of life.”

Reverse mortgages are a federally insured loan that allows seniors to convert the equity in their homes into cash. All proceeds are tax free & do not affect Medicare or Social Security. Credit scores are not looked at and income verification is not necessary, he adds. Additionally, no payments are due on a reverse mortgage as long as the owner is still living in the home and the borrower remains on the deed.

“The reverse mortgage will be paid back after the home is sold whether that is in the homeowner’s lifetime or upon their heirs settling the estate,” O’Connor adds.

John O’Connor offers no-obligation meetings with clients - either in their homes or his office in Crozet.

He takes great pride in treating his prospective clientele with the same care & diligence that he provided his own parents 15 years ago.

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TheReverseMortgageDoctor.com CharlottesvilleFamily.com

39

{living well family tree} Out of the Mouths of Babes

“ My Quotable Grandkid” gives proud grandparents the chance to record their own stories about their lovable offspring. This journal provides space for the most quotable of quotes as well as photos of the little darlings who uttered them. $14.95 at Meadowbrook Pharmacy

ANCESTRY ANYTIME

KIDS MAKING HISTORY Grandparents aren’t the only ones with interesting stories. “We Were There, Too!” is a National Book Award–winning anthology of biographies of young people who played an important role in the making of our nation. $26.00 at New Dominion Bookshop

! The world’s largest Family history is at your fingertips stry.com, has an app online genealogy resource, ance ections, build your that helps you discover family conn bers and more. family tree, share with family mem Free, iOS & Android

Linda is a local freelance writer, writing teacher and the mother of two very active boys.

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41

{living well tips & trends}

Get Moving!

BACK TALKING ON THE MOUNTAIN OF GOD Local writer Deborah Prum’s e-book poetry anthology is a unique synthesis of words, sounds and images. The work of six poets are paired with original photographs and selections read by the authors. The result is a rich experience for the senses, one that you will want to return to again and again.

& $9.99 at iTunes

Tips

Give Thanks — For Your Health

Feeling sleepy after stuffing yourself this holiday season? Don’t blame the turkey. It’s a myth that foods high in tryptophan, like turkey and chicken, make you tired. You probably just need to get outside and moving.

Bring on the touch football!

TRENDS

by Brooks Wellmon

Happiness expert Dr. Robert Emmons says that gratitude isn’t just for Thanksgiving. His studies show that people who practice gratitude reap a bounty of benefits.

1. Grateful people are physically healthier, with stronger immune systems and lower blood pressure.

2. Being thankful has psychological benefits including feeling more alert and awake and taking more pleasure in daily events.

3. Those who count their blessings tend to

be less lonely, more outgoing and more generous.

4. Practicing gratitude can block toxic emotions like envy, resentment and regret.

5. Being grateful has been shown to reduce stress, prevent depression and improve feelings of self-worth.

CLASSES FOR THE BEGINNER TO ADVANCED PRACTITIONER Individual attention given to all students

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42

November 2014

Q A

Holiday Stamina How can I stay healthy and energized during the holidays?

This time of year is notoriously busy, and women in particular can end up burned out by the New Year. It’s hard to find time for yourself, but rest and exercise are essential. Try to go to sleep at a regular time each night, avoid alcohol and snacking before bed and get in a little exercise each day, even if it’s just a walk around the block.



“Poetry is the official palace language of Wow.” — Anne Lamott

GRATITUDE ON THE GO Your Heart on Your Wrist

Sometimes technology can give us the

What easier way to remember gratitude than to wear it on your

nudge we need to turn our intentions into

wrist? Charlottesville artist Laurel Smith uses her handwriting to

action. The Gratitude Journal app from

create jewelry filled with inspiration and happiness. Her adjustable

Happy Tapper makes it easy to record five

leather bracelets feature reminders of what really matters. $20 at laureldenise.com

things you’re grateful for each day.

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Brooks lives in Charlottesville with her husband, their three children and her movie addiction.

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43

MAKE YOUR GARDEN WORK FOR YOU Fall is a great time to start composting. Shredded leaves and cuttings from spent plants make a good base to get things going. Purchase activators or use coffee grounds to speed up the decomposition process.

Putting Your Garden to Bed for Winter

Late fall isn’t just for carving turkeys and bagging leaves. It’s a great time to take care of garden maintenance to prepare for the coming weather. Follow some of these tips to help your garden spring to life after winter has passed.

Buy perennials now. Garden shops usually have end-of-season

early can promote new growth, which will quickly be killed by

perennials on sale this time of the year. They might not look very

freezing temperatures. However, you should cut back any diseased

pretty, but if the roots are in good shape, this is the time to get them

plants and remove mulch that has begun to grow mold or fungus.

in the ground. Planting them now will give them several months to

You can also remove annuals (plants that do not come back every

acclimate to the soil and develop into larger plants in the spring.

year) to make clean up easier in the spring.

Cover up your flower beds with straw, compost or mulch to

tools to prevent rusting, and pack them away in an easy-to-find

The soil will also benefit from the nutrients they produce. When

place for spring. Also, unscrew hoses and empty any remaining

using compost, make sure either it’s your own or that it’s from a

water to prevent them from freezing, causing them to stretch and

trusted source to avoid weeds and fungus from taking root.

potentially burst at the spigot.

Remove the right things. As tempting as it is to start pruning back dried plants, it’s best to wait until spring. Pruning plants too

44

Tidy up your tools. Remove any remaining dirt from your garden

protect them from damage caused by freezing and melting snow.

November 2014

If you can find just a few hours to tidy up your garden now, you’ll be glad you did at the first signs of spring!

{living well home & garden} The Complete Compost Gardening Guide Authors Barbara Pleasant and Deborah L. Martin share techniques for getting the most out of your compost — for effectively using it to enrich soil and realizing all kinds of savings. Following their six easy steps, you’ll be composting in no time and enjoying wonderful and

&

nutritious vegetables from your garden.

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HOME 

GARDENING INFO

The Virginia Gardener website provides news, event information, local resources and gardening tips that are sorted by

“No occupation is so delightful to me as the culture of the earth, and no culture comparable to that of a garden.”

— Thomas Jefferson

Garden

by Lauren Thompson

Get Crankin’

Feeling a little intimidated by starting a compost pile? This rotary compost makes things simple and significantly decreases your workload. Instead of having to manually churn the compost, use the

topic or season to help gardeners in

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{living well home & garden} FARM-TO-TABLE RECIPE OF THE MONTH

PASTA WITH WINTER GREENS AND PARSNIPS Instructions

Ingredients ¾ pound small pasta, such as orecchiette or campanelle ¾ pound bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 pound parsnips, peeled and chopped into cubes 1 bunch kale, Swiss chard or mustard greens, de-stemmed and chopped

1. In a large pot, bring water to boil and cook pasta according to directions.

2. While pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until crisp.

3. Set bacon aside to drain, reserving a few teaspoons of the grease to cook the vegetables. Add parsnips to the drippings and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add greens for 2–3 minutes or until wilted.

4. Set parsnips and greens aside, reserving cooking liquid, if any. Add white wine and Parmesan to the pan. Stir until a creamy sauce is made, scraping the bottom of the pan to release crunchy bits. Add salt and pepper to taste.

¼ cup white wine ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Salt and pepper to taste

5. In a larger serving bowl, toss pasta, bacon, vegetables and sauce together.

Top with additional Parmesan if desired.

Serves 2.

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Tasty Traditions

ble to Yours Ta ur O om fr s ipe ec R g in iv sg nk Tha sharing staff ditions each November is tra ily Fam ille esv ott arl t go with them.

One of our favorite Ch recipes and the stories tha members’ Thanksgiving side. e a starter, stuffing and a This year’s offerings includ

CHATTY CHEX MIX

CHATTY CHEX MIX

Adapted from General Mills Erin Q. Hughes, Graphic Designer

Serves 4 to 6

We gather together with family every year and the one dish that brings us even closer together is this irresistible Chatty Chex Mix

4 cups Corn Chex 4 cups Rice Chex 2 c ups Honey Nut Cheerios 1 cup pretzel sticks 1 cup cashews 8 tablespoons butter

— a variation on the regular mix recipe. It never fails to bring a smile to the awkward boyfriend attending his first Thanksgiving dinner with my family or my grumpy grandpa who doesn’t understand why the turkey isn’t done yet. It satisfies everyone’s senses with the aroma of butter and garlic and the sweetand-savory crunch. Its presence gives us the undeniable “I’m home” feeling, and the room is ignited with conversation and the “thanks” begin. We inevitably reminisce about the family gatherings of the past, laughing and enjoying each other’s company.

This is a staple in my family and I hope you enjoy it at your next family gathering to either break the silence or enhance the fun!

48

November 2014

2 t ablespoons salt 2 t ablespoons powder 2 t ablespoons 2 t ablespoons powder

seasoned garlic garlic salt onion

Preheat oven to 375°. Mix together cereal, pretzels and cashews in a nonstick, oven-safe pan. Heat butter in microwave until completely melted. Add seasonings to melted butter and blend well. Pour 2/3 of seasoned butter over mixture. Stir to make sure everything is coated and then drizzle remaining butter over top. Bake in oven for 15 minutes. Let stand out to dry for however long you can stand to wait before digging in!

Thanksgiving Crafts

{inspiration tasty traditions}

for Kids!

Find instructions for pilgrim ships and teepees at: CharlottesvilleFamily.com/ ThanksgivingCrafts

CORNBREAD STUFFING WITH BACON, APPLES & SAGE

CORNBREAD STUFFING WITH BACON, APPLES & SAGE

Adapted from recipes in Cook’s Illustrated’s “American Classics” Jennifer Conrad Seidel, Editor

Serves 10 to 12

Since moving to Charlottesville in the fall of 2000, many of our holiday dinners have been spent with our dear friends, the Merrickses. Laura Merricks and I have an arrangement: I do most of the cooking and she hosts. This means I can cook without worrying about the mess I make as I go and she can focus on decorating and finding enough space for our families and the other friends who join us. I’ve served this stuffing at several Thanksgivings, and it goes great with everything, including her cranberry sauce and homemade dinner rolls and my green salad with apples and shallot dressing and roasted winter vegetables.

Note: The day before Thanksgiving, I make and then dry out the cornbread by spreading the cornbread cubes over two baking sheets and leaving these in a 250° oven for an hour; alternatively, make the cornbread two days ahead and leave the cubes out to dry. (When making your grocery list, remember to include the extra eggs and milk you’ll need for making cornbread.)

If you want to make the stuffing the day before, add more liquid (use an additional ¼ cup of half-and-half and ¼ cup of chicken stock, see step 1) and refrigerate the stuffing in the baking dish for up to 24 hours (see step 4). Before cooking it, bring it closer to room temperature by letting it sit out for a while (30–60 minutes).

If you want to stuff the turkey, you’ll need to heat the refrigerated stuffing first: Microwave half the recipe (enough for a 12- to 15-pound turkey) on full power, stopping a few times to stir it, for 6–8 minutes or until it is too hot to handle with your hands; or bake it at 325° until heated thoroughly. Remember to keep utensils that touch the uncooked turkey separate from other utensils. Follow the instructions (step 5) for cooking the remaining stuffing.

12 c ups cornbread (4 packages of Jiffy or Martha White, prepared), cut into 1-inch cubes and dried (see note) 3 cups chicken stock 2 cups half-and-half 2 eggs ½p ound bacon, cut crosswise into ¼-inch strips

3 medium onions, diced 2G ranny Smith apples, peeled, cored and diced 4 t ablespoons chopped parsley 3 t ablespoons chopped sage 1½ teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons pepper

1. Put dried, cubed cornbread in a large bowl. In another bowl, whisk stock, half-and-half and eggs.

Pour liquid over cornbread, toss gently so cubes keep their shape and set aside.

2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp (10–15 minutes). Remove bacon and put on paper towels to drain. Reserve 3 tablespoons of bacon fat and discard the rest.

3. Return rendered fat to the pan and increase heat to medium-high. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes (longer if you want them to carmelize). Add apples, stir well to coat with drippings and cook for another 5 minutes. Transfer onion-apple mixture to a large bowl and add bacon, herbs, salt and pepper. Mix to combine.

4. Pour this mixture over the cornbread mixture and stir gently. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1–4 hours.

5. Heat oven to 400°. Butter (or mist with oil) a 10 by 15-inch baking dish if you aren’t stuffing the turkey (see note) or a 9 by 9-inch baking dish if you are. Transfer stuffing and any liquids that have pooled in the bowl to the baking dish. Bake until browned, 35-40 minutes.

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

49

EVENING STAR CAFÉ’S SWEET POTATO & ANDOUILLE HASH

EVENING STAR CAFÉ’S SWEET POTATO & ANDOUILLE HASH

From the Washington Post Lindsay Lopez, Sales Consultant

Makes 4 side-dish servings

Every holiday is full of both sides of our family hosting huge gatherings, which always include a lot of food. There are always so many dishes to choose from, each made with love. While the holidays are an extremely busy time for us, we look forward to each gathering. Our girls look forward to seeing everyone and spending time with many relatives that we do not get to see on a regular basis.

My husband and I recently participated in the Whole Life Challenge, and this recipe is something we have discovered we love! It is rare to find a recipe that both the kids and adults in our house enjoy. We are planning to bring this to holiday gatherings and make it a part of our holiday traditions.

1 tablespoon canola oil 8 ounces cooked andouille sausage, coarsely chopped (may substitute cooked chorizo) 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 pound sweet potato, peeled and cut into small dice

starts to stick, add oil as needed. Cook, stirring often, for 10 to 15 minutes, until potato is tender and onion has softened.

3. Add cilantro and stir to incorporate; remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Divide among individual plates; serve hot. (When served at breakfast, it can be topped with a fried or poached egg.)

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50

November 2014

leaves (about 1/3 of a bunch)

1. Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and heat through for about 5 minutes, until some of its fat is rendered. Add cinnamon and cumin, stirring to coat evenly.

2. Add potato, onion and jalapeño, stirring to combine; season with salt and pepper to taste. If mixture becomes dry and

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51

{inspiration volunteering}

How can you get involved?

52

November 2014

Abundant Life Ministries

For more information about CALM programs visit charlottesvilleabundantlife.org.

Abundant Life Ministries

Thanks and Giving Abundant Life Students Learn and Earn

By Jennifer Slate

Imagine a store where young kids can go holiday shopping with their hard-earned money.

Charlottesville Abundant Life Ministries’ Christmas Store is exactly that. For the last 17 years, children in the Prospect Avenue neighborhood have lined up on a cold December morning with a fistful of “Blue Bucks” to wait their turn to go shopping. And next month, hundreds of volunteers will work to make it happen again.

Tutoring Pays Off Since early September, 50 students at Johnson Elementary School and 20 students at Walker Upper Elementary School have been meeting once or twice a week with individually assigned tutors — volunteers from UVA and the community. Each student works with his or her tutor on that week’s homework as well as on a specially created curriculum. Blue slips of paper currency called Blue Bucks are given out for attendance, effort and good behavior at these sessions. As the semester progresses, students are eager to know how many bucks they have earned. They know that the Christmas Store is coming soon.

Johnson’s principal, Peter Stern, sees the effects of this work firsthand. “The tutoring program provides benefits to Johnson in multiple ways. The lessons are designed individually for each student, by educators, for each tutor. While the educational component is important, I believe the relationship that each student develops with his or her tutor has the greatest impact on our students. Each student develops an ongoing positive relationship with an adult that provides support and guidance.”

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

53

{inspiration volunteering} Those

Simple, intuitive and playful instruction

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relationships

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tutoring

Abundant Christian

program.

Life

Charlottesville

Ministries

community

(CALM),

a

development

organization, partners with community residents to provide holistic programming, one-on-one

mutually

transforming

relationships and leadership development for residents of the Prospect Avenue and Fifeville community. CALM’s team consists of seven regular staff, eight Americorps

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members and three lesson planners.

Besides organizing tutoring at Johnson and

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“Through 17 years of service, CALM has community. We serve approximately 400 homes, more than 150 children, and we

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utilize more than 200 volunteers per year.”

Givers and Receivers CALM founder Dr. Amy Sherman explains

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54

You deserve to hear every moment of life

Bucks and then using those to purchase

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November 2014

presents for their families. Christmas is have an opportunity to be givers, not just receivers.”

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Former tutor and UVA student Ruthie Williamson found herself learning to

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for both the tutor and tutee. We could both learn from each other in many ways and have fun while doing so.”

Tonia Maistros tutored all four years of her time as a student at UVA. “I think my favorite part of tutoring was the week after a really tough week. You would spend a whole tutoring session going over and over a word problem, and the next week something you worked on that whole past session would have clicked and the problem was suddenly easy. The kid would just grin and tell you now that the problem was too easy.” She adds, “The Blue Bucks really encouraged the students to try their best and gave them a reason to keep working after a long day at school.”

Maistros was also co-chair of the Abundant Life Christmas Banquet while in college. For the past 14 years, UVA students have supported CALM programming by hosting this holiday fund-raising banquet.

Close to 800 kids, tutors, families and friends attend the event, which features dinner, a silent auction, cookie decorating, gospel choirs and a keynote speaker. Past speakers have included UVA professors, community leaders and the Cavaliers’ football coach, Mike London. The kids also get to talk with Santa to add any lastminute items to their wish lists.

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{inspiration volunteering} up shelving and tables, vacuum and sweep the building, and

Abundant Life Ministries

hang up Christmas lights and decorations. Other volunteers have been busy shopping for items on the students’ wish lists, marking everything with Blue Bucks’ prices and arranging the rooms by theme or gift recipient. More volunteers arrive to make and serve hot cocoa and to help keep the kids entertained as they wait their turn to shop. Then helpers take kids shopping throughout the house and wrap and tag presents.

When it’s finally time to open, students are called in three or four at a time and led through the new “mini-department store.” Each room has “salespeople” who help with making decisions, checking lists and tallying prices. When everyone on a child’s list has been shopped for, the child is encouraged to pick out a present for himself or herself. Children then head to the wrapping room to have their gifts wrapped, decorated and labeled by volunteer elves, who get to see exactly who’s getting what for Christmas.

Marsha Montague, her husband and their four children volunteered together in the store for 15 years. She says, “It introduced my children to the neighborhood and the idea of helping others.” Her daughter Margaret Montague Feldman began helping out when she was in first grade. “It became one of our Christmas traditions that we looked forward to each year. My sister and I would assist my parents with the wrapping station while my older brothers would help students navigate the store and pick out gifts. I loved getting to talk to the kids about why they picked certain presents. They would always

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Tuesday, November 18th • 7:00 p.m.

Join us at our Community Dinner Thursday, November 13th • 6:00 p.m. • King Family Vineyards • For Tickets: Regentsthanksgiving@regents-school.org

(434) 293-0633 • regents-school.org 56

November 2014

be so excited at being able to buy gifts for their parents, grandparents, cousins, siblings and friends. I was amazed at their generosity, especially at a young age.” As they got older, Margaret and her siblings continued to volunteer as CALM tutors,

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Long-Lasting Relationships CALM board member and elementary school teacher Jillian Smith sees two benefits to the way the program is structured. “Unlike other donation sites where you just shop for the kids, kids are the ones here shopping for people they love. Some of my favorite moments have been going through the store with boys who have big attitudes and tough exteriors,” she shares. “They often are the

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ones who spend the longest amount of time in the women’s shop picking out just the right necklace for Mom.” Smith also notes that the program has great follow-through. Kids often shop with their tutors and will see them again after the holidays. Tutors can follow up by asking how family members enjoyed the gifts chosen by the student for them.

“The Christmas Store isn’t just an isolated event where these kids get something because it’s the holidays,” says Smith. “It’s part of a deeper relationship.”

Another example of just that kind of long-lasting relationship is the one between tutor Emily Case and her student, Elena. Says Case, “Elena has loving and hardworking parents, but English is not their first language. I was able to help her academically, and from there our friendship grew.”

Case

stayed

in

Charlottesville

after graduation and continues to spend time with Elena and her family. “We have different

cultural

backgrounds,

socio-

economic levels and life stages. It is so good for both of us to be around each other because we are stretched by being a part of each others’ lives.”

find your place

Jennifer lives in Charlottesville and hopes her children get her a puppy and a drum set for Christmas.

MountaintopMontessori.org CharlottesvilleFamily.com

57

REALKIDS REAL Solutions Exploring UVA’s Sheila C. Johnson Center

By Jody Hobbs Hesler

The challenges that bring families to use counseling services varies widely. One’s child may struggle with stutters or other speech development issues, attention deficit disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, emotional trauma, anxiety or a host of other difficulties. But in all of these cases, the hope is that counseling will address whatever is keeping a child from functioning fully academically, emotionally or otherwise.

Therapy Alongside Parenting

“helped him bridge a gap that the counselors [at school] and

Counseling services worked wonders for Dani’s son. “Because of

[his father] and I couldn't fill well.” Private therapy was aimed

his Asperger’s, his social skills have to be taught to him instead

at “reinforcing some of the things he had been taught in social

of learned by osmosis,” Dani explains. In group therapy when

skills class but wasn't paying attention to closely the first

he was younger, “each week they had a specific set of skills

time,” she explains. “It also gave him a different perspective

they’d learn, and then they’d practice,” Dani says. “For example,

on how to deal with certain social issues, like his loneliness,

trying to join a group of kids who are playing is a lot harder

and [reminded him] how much Mom and Dad and other people

than just asking, ‘Hey, can I play?’ because what do you do if

really did want to help and were trying to help.”

you are rejected?” Group sessions helped participants work out approaches to challenges like this one.

When Dani’s son got a little older, he started articulating negative thoughts at school. Then, Dani says, private sessions

Dani and her family saw results from each of these counseling experiences that benefitted their son. “We know the door is still open to go back as needed,” she says. The family has resolution for now and a promise of help if things get tricky again.

Who Is Sheila C. Johnson? Philanthropist and entrepreneur Sheila C. Johnson initially made her fortune as the co-founder of the BET Network (Black Entertainment Television). In addition to serving on the board of UVA’s Curry School, Johnson is chairwoman of the governing board at the Parsons The New School for Design in New York; team president and managing partner of D.C.’s WNBA team, the Washington Mystics; founder and CEO of Salamander Hospitality, which includes the Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg, VA; and a global ambassador for CARE, an aid organization committed to fighting global poverty and providing disaster relief.

58

November 2014

“The earlier you can get something diagnosed and do remediation with it, the better.”

Tom Cogill

— Mary Beth Bellah, clinical administrator of the Sheila C. Johnson Center

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

59

{resource learning} Different Kids Need Different Things Children’s needs vary widely, but one local resource can serve most of them: the Sheila C. Johnson Center for Human

Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.

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offering counseling and learning services.

Counselors and clinicians at the SJC serve people — infants to adults — through different departments, or subcenters, all of which offer specialized services: the Speech-Language-Hearing

Center,

the

Center for Clinical Psychology Services, the

McGuffey

Reading

Center, Curry

Autism Spectrum Services, the Children’s Learning Clinic and the Personal and Career Development Center.

Clinicians

from

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subcenters

evaluate clients for an array of diagnoses, ranging

from

speech

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language

difficulties to placement on the autism spectrum to reading issues and beyond.

After evaluation and diagnosis, clinicians

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and counselors offer a wide range of therapies to address identified problems.

Graduate students working in close cooperation with supervising licensed professionals provide services to clients, “so you’re getting the double-look,” says Mary Beth Bellah, clinical administrator of the SJC. Bellah explains that because the center — which is part of the Curry

2013

School of Education — is a training clinic,

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the clinicians and their cases are closely supervised, giving the clients that much more attention. The students providing the services also have a fairly low case load as compared to those in a private practice, giving them ample time “to research and network for cleverer information,” as Bellah puts it. These clinicians, then, are able to provide services that “would have required referrals in a traditional setting,” she says.

“A big advantage for families,” says Lisa Locke-Downer, director of the Center for Clinical Psychology Services, “is the one-stop shopping idea.” The juxtaposition of so many subspecialties in an academic setting

prompts

spontaneous

cross-

pollination. “Students all co-mingle and co-use the space” at the center, says Bellah, creating “a lot more interaction across disciplines than you would get” in other contexts. With so much opportunity

60

November 2014

student clinicians learn about the various approaches their colleagues and advisors use to address the problems they face. All of that, Bellah says, “broadens the horizons of the students.”

Finding a Diagnosis

Sheila C. Johnson Center

for sharing information, the graduate

“Often parents call not sure what their child needs,” says Locke-Downer. But because students can offer evaluations across disciplines, “parents are able to leave with a really good sense of what is going on and what to do about it.”

Ultimately, says Bellah, the SJC’s aim is to serve “real kids in real schools,” adding that graduate student practitioners “come up with real solutions to create real changes in kids’ lives.”

The best evidence of success, according to Jane Hilton, an assistant professor of speech pathology and audiology, is when clients demonstrate change and no longer need the SJC’s services. Though Hilton says it’s sad to see them go, it’s happy, too.

“Their communication or other issue has

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improved, so they no longer need us.”

Autism | Asperger’s | Concussion | Tourettes | ADHD

Anna has big brown eyes, a dog named Mo and has never spoken a word.

Thousands of children in Virginia have some type of developmental delay. Not speaking is only one of them. If your child isn’t crawling, talking or walking like other children her age, please call us for a free screening.

We’re here to help.

For more information, call 434-970-1491.

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•

434-823-2199 CharlottesvilleFamily.com

61

Lynn Bell

{inspiration learning}

A great fit for students needing support and individualized attention in reading, math,

WHAT THE SJC OFFERS

written language, and study skills.

The Speech-Language-Hearing Center offers comprehensive services for the diagnosis and treatment of language, speech, swallowing and hearing disorders for adults, adolescents, children and infants.

• Multi-sensory approach incorporates traditional instruction and advanced technology.

• Daily one-to-one instruction and small classes.

• 5:1 student to teacher ratio.

• Day and boarding programs for ages 6 to 14.

• Horseback riding, sports, arts and music.

• Rolling admissions.

The Center for Clinical Psychology Services offers psychological, educational and counseling services, including diagnostic evaluations and therapeutic intervention.

(434) 293-9059 • www.oaklandschool.net • Keswick, Virginia

New

Spring Creek office in Zion Crossroads opening in January 2015!!

Jennifer M. Dixon, DDS, MS

Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Aaron J. Stump, DDS

The McGuffey Reading Center, one of the longest running university reading centers in the nation, offers diagnostic testing, after-school tutoring and summer programs.

Curry Autism Spectrum Services offers comprehensive diagnostic assessments for children and adults suspected of having autism spectrum disorder.

The Children’s Learning Clinic offers comprehensive assessment and treatment services for children suspected of having attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and related difficulties.

Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric Dentistry Specialists Conscious Sedation and Nitrous Oxide Services Compassionate and Nurturing Doctors and Staff Kid-friendly, State-of-the-Art Office Parental Participation Encouraged Thank You for Voting us your CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite!

Hollymead Town Center 229 Connor Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22911

434-975-PEDO (7336) 62

November 2014

2013

www.cvillepedo.com

Personal and Career Development Center offers counseling and assessment services to clients.

The Sheila C. Johnson Center is on Grounds in Bavaro Hall at 417 Emmet St. South, directly across from UVA’s Emmet Street Parking Garage, which validates parking for clients.

To learn more or make an appointment, call (434) 924-7034 or visit curry.virginia.edu/ community-programs/sjc.

Hilton talks about one little boy with an autism spectrum

when a child gets the services she needs. The child’s progress

disorder who enrolled in the center because of speech and

in the appropriate therapy yields “huge benefits for everybody,”

language delays related to his diagnosis. After participating in

says Locke-Downer. “It helps reduce the stress level in the house

one of the center’s summer programs and undergoing less than

overall. . . . The whole family [ends up] feeling better and calmer.”

a year of speech and language therapy, “his communication skills

Another plus is that the graduate students are kid-friendly,

were age appropriate,” Hilton says. His parents wanted to know

young and energetic, says Hilton. “They love to work with the

what to do to maintain his dramatic success, and Hilton was

young children,” she adds. Sometimes the children “don’t even

able to tell them to involve him in regular children’s activities,

know they’re in therapy,” Hilton says, because the SJC uses a

such as swimming or karate, to keep him around other kids and

play-based approach.

practice what he had learned.

Great Help Just a Few Miles from Home Success at School

The Sheila C. Johnson Center is in an easily accessible new

Locke-Downer sees similar success stories at the Center for

building on the grounds of the University of Virginia. According

Clinical and Psychological Services, where families might

to Bellah, the SJC accepts a broad range of insurance plans and

arrange therapy for children who have anxiety around attending

offers a sliding fee scale for therapy. Like most agencies that

school, for example. “We’re able to get them back into school,”

provide mental health services, the center has to put some

she notes, “by helping them work with their anxiety and by

clients on a waiting list.

working with school.”

“Concerns from parents are the number one most accurate

Often when a student gets in trouble at school, the child’s

way to tell if there’s a problem,” Hilton says. So if you’re concerned

problem can be traced back to a reading disorder, attention

that your child might need some kind of therapy, arrange to

deficit hyperactivity disorder or some other issue. Students

bring him to a human service provider. “So many interventions

become frustrated at school because “they can’t do what they’re

make an incredible difference,” says Bellah. “The earlier you can

being asked to do,” Locke-Downer explains. When a family brings

get something diagnosed and do remediation with it, the better.”

that student to the SJC, the evaluation process can help identify the student’s core issue. Counselors and clinicians can then help

Jody studied briefly in UVA’s counselor education program, and all

the student manage that issue.

the good work going on at the Sheila Johnson Center reminded her

Families often don’t realize how much everyone benefits

why she did. Find more of Jody’s writing at jodyhobbshesler.com.

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63

{inspiration preschool}

Funny, Exasperating & Adorable

64

November 2014

Understanding the Behaviors of Toddlers and Preschoolers

By Deborah Bohn

A normally quiet 2-year-old giggles hysterically while pouring his drink onto his plate. An inquisitive 3-year-old peppers you with a nonstop barrage of “Why?” questions as she puts on her sparkly princess costume. Nearly a “big kid,” a 4-year-old scores a goal in soccer and gets his own snack from the fridge, but he insists on wearing the same threadbare T-shirt every day and sleeping with his favorite stuffed giraffe. It’s just a day in the life of little kids!

The brief yet explosive time of rapid physical and emotional development between 18 months and 4 years bridges the gap between toddlers and preschoolers. These little ones aren’t really babies, but they aren’t quite big kids either, and their behavior can baffle even the wisest parent.

What Makes 2-Year-Olds Tick The twos are often called “terrible,” and they can certainly seem that way in the midst of a shopping mall tantrum. But while 2-year-olds — true toddlers — can be tyrannical during a meltdown, they are usually gregarious and loving, generous with sloppy kisses and prone to fits of laughter over silly faces.

So why do these little love bugs go from docile to difficult in an instant? “Two-yearolds are struggling with the ability to regulate their emotions and behavior,” explains

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

65

{inspiration preschool}

The Frost Montessori School

Linda Ashford, Ph.D., a developmental

crowd, but their favorite jokes usually

psychologist

the

involve oppositional humor like wearing

parenting book “How Can You Say That?”

and

co-author

of

a sock on your head or putting daddy’s

“But the 2-year-old isn’t an expert and

shoes on a baby doll. “They are just getting

vacillates between doing it herself and

used to the way things are supposed to be,

wanting help, between being carefree and

so when their expectations are violated,

stubborn, between being easily persuaded

they find it hilarious,” Ashford explains. So

and digging her heels in,” she adds.

the next time your 2-year-old pitches a fit,

It’s up to parents to help toddlers navigate emotional terrain by giving in when it’s harmless or giving children simple choices when they need to be made. The question, “Which socks do you want to wear?” can be overwhelming to a child who’s just realized the ability to make choices at all. Choices can often

A learning environment for children ages 21 months to 6 years old. call today to schedule a tour!

979-5223

1553 Delphi Drive Charlottesville, VA 22911

“It is so energizing and fulfilling to be intimately a part of my child’s learning environment and to work closely with other parents who share the same vision.”

– MMP Parent

Now enrolling ages 2.5 - 5 for 2014-15

Molly Michie Preschool (434) 977-7406 1901 Thomson Road, adjacent to UVA grounds mmp.registrar@gmail.com http://mmp.avenue.org

66

November 2014

a dose of slapstick humor might just turn those tears into giggles.

“Why” questions are simply a way for a young child to initiate conversation with you.”

result in a meltdown or the snatching of

Why Do 3-Year-Olds Ask Why?

all the socks. Selecting the socks yourself

By the time a child turns 3, he has usually

can also trigger a tantrum because

developed a large enough vocabulary to

it stifles your little one’s newfound

express his frustrations, and tantrums

independence. Instead, hold up two pairs

gradually taper off as the year goes by.

and ask, “Would you like the white or the

In fact, his exploding linguistic prowess

blue today?”

relates directly to a preschooler’s sense

While having mom and dad take care

of humor. Phrases that stress alliteration

of all his needs was comforting as a baby,

like, “Betty busts her buttons!” or nonsense

a toddler — much like a budding teenager

rhymes like, “Eat with your feet” are

— suddenly feels the need to assert his

absolute side-splitters with this crowd.

independence, but he lacks the complex

And as every weary parent knows, the joke

language skills to make polite requests or

never goes stale. Ashford agrees, “Rhymes

negotiate a decision. The only tool at his

can be repeated over and over, always

disposal is the dreaded word, “No!” Ashford

bringing eruption of huge laughter.”

says, “The growth of independence and

Sharing those jokes with a friend is

the drive for autonomy are the hallmarks

just one of the wonderful experiences in

of this age.” So each emphatic “no” is not

store for 3-year-olds, who enjoy coloring,

only normal, it’s actually a sign of healthy

swinging and actually sharing toys with

psychological development.

kids

Despite

their

their

age.

Unfortunately,

these

bravado,

budding socialites still lack the tact

toddlers frequently become uneasy in

and complex language skills to move

unfamiliar situations like visiting a busy

smoothly between playmates, sometimes

store or being left with a stranger and

resulting in rejection and hurt feelings.

become

insisting

Instead of saying, “I’m playing dolls with

on being picked up and toted around.

Jamie right now, but we can play Legos

“Children

appropriately

later,” when her game with one friend

connected with their parents will slip and

is interrupted by a third child, a 3-year-

slide between stages of development,”

old may simply say, “Go away. You’re

Ashford notes, “sometimes being totally

not my friend.” As distressing as that

grown up and at other times wanting to

sounds, Kathleen Hoover-Dempsey, Ph.D.,

be held like an infant.” Parents should

associate professor of psychology and

simply coach them to success when they

human development at Peabody College

try to do something for themselves and

of Vanderbilt

stand ready with a cuddle when they need

perfectly normal.

instant who

customary

“cling-ons,” are

reassurance.

University, assures

it’s

“At this age, children often forget it

Occasional tantrums aside, toddlers

a few hours later.” Interestingly, these

are an easily amused bunch. Silly faces

episodes are more common among little

and antics are always big hits with this

girls. “Girls play in smaller, more intimate

Guide to Preschools Albemarle Montessori Children’s Community Allows children to grow and learn at their own paces and develop individually.

Ages 2 years–K albemarlemcc.com, 540-671-9894 See ad page 70 Chancellor Street Preschool Co-operative A caring and engaged community for families involved in inspiring and educating their children.

Ages 3–5 years c-street.org, 296-6444 See ad page 70 Charlottesville Catholic School Prepares students to embrace their world through lives of faith, service and leadership.

Pre-K–Grade 8 cvillecatholic.org, 964-0400 See ad page 19 Charlottesville Waldorf School Emphasizes imaginative play as the foundation for nurturing the senses and understanding the sciences.

Preschool–Grade 8

cwaldorf.org, 973-4946 See ad page 69 Christ Church Preschool Creating a joyful, active-learning environment for children from Charlottesville-area and refugee families.

Ages 3–5 years christchurchpreschoolcville.com, 293-2347 See ad page 70 Covenant School Providing a traditional, Christian liberal arts and sciences education.

Pre-K–Grade 12 covenantschool.org, 220-7309 See ad page 77 First Presbyterian Church Preschool Creating a foundation for continuous growth and development in a Christian environment.

Ages 20 months–5 years fpchurch.com/presch.asp, 296-1447 See ad page 67

Free Union Country School Encourages children to be creative thinkers, active explorers and good problem-solvers.

Ages 3–4 years freeunioncountryschool.org, 978-1700 See ad page 71 Frost Montessori School Multi-aged classrooms offer art, music, Spanish and outdoor enrichment.

Ages 21 months–6 years frostmontessori.com, 979-5223 See ad page 66 Grymes Memorial School Co-educational day school offers art, music, drama and Spanish. Bus transport.

Age 4 years–Grade 8 grymesschool.org, 540-672-1010 See ad page 55 Hillsboro Christian Preschool Focuses on school preparation with crafts and games in a Christian environment.

Ages 2½–5 years hbcnet.org, 823-5342 See ad page 68

The mission of First Presbyterian Church Preschool is to serve children and families throughout the community by creating a foundation for continuous growth and development in a nurturing, Christian environment.

Ages Served: 20 months through 5 years Enrollment options: Two, three, and five days a week, 9AM-Noon After school activities include Lunch Bunch, Wee Little Arts, Pea Pod Players, and Bricks 4 Kidz

first presbyterian church preschool 500 Park Street • Charlottesville

434.296.1447

firstprescharlottesville.org/preschool Donna Buchanan, Director

Mighty Minds, Little Hands International Preschool We Shape the Mighty Minds of Tomorrow

h& Frenc h SpaniS n Sio immer am progr

2117 Angus Rd. • Charlottesville, VA 22901

434-975-4263(HAND)

mmlhip@gmail.com | www.mmlhp.com CharlottesvilleFamily.com

67

The International School of Charlottesville Children learn by doing in Spanish or French language immersion programs.

Ages 2–6 years theisc.org, 984-2174 See ad page 71

Millstone of Ivy Preschool Preschool program helping children explore the world and prepare for kindergarten.

Ages 2½–5 years millstoneofivy.com, 979-2111 See ad page 69

Ivy School House Engages students intellectually through activity, play and daily Spanish integration.

Ages 2–6 years ivyschoolhouse.org, 823-4060 See ad page 68

Molly Michie Cooperative Preschool This parent-run co-op teaches with crafts, cooking and imaginative play.

Ages 2½–5 years mmp.avenue.org, 977-7406 See ad page 66

Kingswood Christian Preschool A program that focuses on emotional, spiritual, social and academic growth.

Ages 2½–5 years crozetumc.org, 823-1258 See ad page 70

Montessori School of Charlottesville A Montessori experience with international and ecological consciousness.

Ages 21 months–6 years montessoriofcville.org, 295-0029 See ad page 54

Mighty Minds, Little Hands International Preschool Offers a blend of French- and Spanish-language immersion.

Ages 6 weeks–5 years mmlhp.com, 975-4263 See ad page 67

Mountaintop Montessori Montessori-based curriculum including outdoor learning and art.

Ages 18 months–Grade 8 mountaintopmontessori.org, 979-8886 See ad page 57

Paran Preschool at Restoration United Methodist Providing a nurturing, developmentally appropriate, Christian environment.

Ages 12 months–4 years paranpreschool.com, 973-9077 See ad page 68 Peabody School Activities support the cultivation of creativity, problem solving skills and social skills.

Ages 3–5 years www.peabodyschool.org, 296-6901 See ad page 60

St. Anne’s-Belfield School Curriculum includes language, music, art and cooking with independent play and group activities.

Ages 3–Grade 12 stab.org, 296-5106 See ad page 77

Opening Westminster Child Care Center NAEYC standards-based include Celebrationactivities Sunday music, computers and an indoor playroom.

Ages 6 weeks–5 years April 13, 2014 at 10:30 AM westccc.net, 977-3322 New United SeeAad page 79 Methodist Faith Community Informal Atmosphere  Joyful, Modern Music Inspiring, Practical Messages  Fun, Active Children’s Programs Authentic, Caring Community  Missional Focus restorationcville.org

Ivy School House Preschool Crozet, Virginia

now enrolling ages 2-6

www.ivyschoolhouse.org call 434.823.4060 to schedule a tour

Hillsboro Christian Preschool (ages 2 1/2 - 5 years)

Pre-K Spanish Enrichment Friendly, Loving, and Experienced Staff Nurturing, Christian Environment

434-823-5342

www.hillsboro.cc • hcpdirector@gmail.com 68

November 2014

Now Enrolling for 2014-15!

Now ENrolliNg

for 2014-15 and 2015-16!

2-Day, 3-Day, and 5-Day Programs Smaller Class Sizes  2-Year Old Program Family Oriented, Cooperative Atmosphere

MDo, 2-Day, 3-Day, and 5-Day Programs For more information or to register your child today, please visit our website!

Smaller Class Sizes paranpreschool.com 2-Year Old Program Family Oriented, Cooperative Setting For more information or to enroll your child today, please visit our website!

paranpreschool.org

{inspiration preschool} “Potty humor is also popular at this age, but then again bathroom jokes are a staple in both Shakespeare and “Saturday Night Live.” groups than boys who rove in herds and gaggles. Boys tend not to focus as much on the person, rather the activity,” explains Hoover-Dempsey.

Do you ever wish you had a nickel for every time your child utters the word “Why?” Well, imagine being in a foreign country where you’re trying desperately to make sense of local customs — like refraining from interrupting others or ringing a doorbell before you enter a house — and your only guides to this strange place are your mom and dad. You’d ask them a lot of questions, too!

“Preschoolers are so amazingly aware of the world and are thinking about things in more interrelated, complex ways,” Hoover-Dempsey says. Don’t feel like you always have to give a scientific answer

CULTIVATING CONFIDENCE Knowledge begins by nurturing a child’s desire to learn. At the Charlottesville Waldorf School, the foundation for academics goes hand in hand with a genuine appreciation of the natural world. While learning the fundamentals, students immerse themselves in music, art, sports, as well as the wonders of our beautiful 13-acre campus, connecting the classroom experience to the world at large.

Parent and Child Classes begin for children under 3 years old Half and Full-Day Options are available for children 3 - 6 years old Grade School includes 1st - 8th grades Call Elizabeth Hale, (434)973-4946, or email enrollment@cwaldorf.org for a tour.

to a question like, “Why is the sky blue?” because “why” questions often just mean, “Tell me more about this topic.” You can talk about birds and planes flying in the sky or how the sky turns pink at dinnertime and black at night. “Why” questions are simply a way for a young child to initiate conversation with you, so just keep talking to him and your 3-year-old will be thrilled!

Nonstop chattering is characteristic of most 3-year-olds. But that incessant banter is a sign of a smart little cookie. As HooverDempsey explains, “It’s the exercise of amazing mushrooming language abilities.”

Preschool

And that mental muscle flexing is what

Ages 2 1/2 - 5

leads most kids to continue talking even when no one is listening or to insert the same new word or phrase into every conversation they have.

“My daughter used to use the word ‘actually’

in

almost

every

sentence

because she was so thrilled to have learned such a grown-up word,” recalls Elizabeth Lindsey, mother of 3-year-old Victoria. “She’s actually moved on to the word ‘often’ and uses it as often as possible!” As tiring as all that talking can become, parents should cherish this season of open communication because

A gentle, safe and loving atmosphere for young children to begin to explore the world and to prepare for kindergarten.

• • • •

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create...

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CharlottesvilleFamily.com

69

{inspiration preschool} the time will come when getting a sum

Christ Church Preschool

total of five words out of your teenager will be an accomplishment.

A Place to be Known and Loved Serving Local and Refugee Children

Figuring It All Out at 4 At age 4, kids are energetic, silly and willing to try almost anything.

• Joyful, loving environment • Community of families • Freedom to explore and learn at the child’s own pace

They know how to make themselves understood, they understand the basic rules of life, and they have a decent grip on their emotions and are ready to experience everything with a smile and

103 W. Jefferson Street, Downtown Charlottesville • 434-293-2347 preschool@christchurchcville.org • christchurchpreschoolcville.com

can-do attitude. There’s just one hitch: They can’t hear a word you say.

Four-year-olds from

the

frequently

same

condition

suffer that

sometimes afflicts grown men during televised football games — selective hearing. “It’s an issue of overload,” says Hoover-Dempsey

explains.

“Children

are less able to tune out irrelevant stimuli like television or the presence of an interesting toy.” She recommends parents “turn off the TV, bend down eye-to-eye with their child and make the statement or question as short as possible.” That means nagging and lecturing will fall upon deaf ears, so keep reprimands brief and to the point.

Now Enrolling

If your 4-year-old won’t answer when you call, it may very well be because she’s not herself at the moment; she’s Princess Jasmine or Dora the Explorer.

Ashford notes, "By age 4, they are always

• Welcoming children ages

playing another character. Children

2½ to 5

need to try new and different roles

• Low student/teacher ratio

and enjoy the excitement of being an

• ABC Music & Me™ from

astronaut or firefighter.”

Kindermusik® included in each student’s curriculum

Pretending also helps kids work

1156 Crozet Avenue • 434-823-1258 • www.CrozetumC.org

through past problems, like reenacting a fight with a friend or reliving favorite experiences such as a recent birthday party or vacation. “Giving children lots of literary experiences through books, telling stories and watching good movies will help children develop imaginary play,” Ashford suggests.

It’s a paradox: 4-year-olds have such a zest for life but are often curious about death. Since most kids have had a pet or family member (like a grandparent) pass away by this age, “What happens when you die?” is a natural question. Hoover-

2015-16

Dempsey says, “Parents need to be clear what their own beliefs are so they can

70

November 2014

“A young child lacks the complex language skills to make polite requests or negotiate a decision.”

Laying foundations for a lifetime of global citizenship

communicate clearly to their children.”

She urges parents to avoid relating death to sleeping, since that could trigger

with language immersion programs in French and Spanish for ages 2-6

Limited openings for 2014-15.

Call today!

Part- and full-time programs with flexible Extra Care Previous exposure to French or Spanish is not required

All are welcome at ISC!

bedtime fears, and answer the dreaded, “Are you going to die?” question with a simple and reassuring, “No.” They may ponder serious subjects, but

For enrollment information email: admissions@theISC.org call: (434) 984-2174 or visit us online

830 Monticello Avenue in Downtown Charlottesville

www.theISC.org

4-year-olds love to laugh. This gang finds name-calling — “You’re a banana head!”

— uproariously funny. “Humor is found in people juxtaposing things that are unexpected,” Hoover-Dempsey explains.

Potty humor is also popular at this age,

Meet one of ours at

Free Union Country School Preschool - Fifth Grade

but then again bathroom jokes are a staple in both Shakespeare and “Saturday Night

In motion: bike, drums, lacrosse with Dad, tree climber

Live,” so it’s only natural to laugh at what embarrasses us. If your preschooler’s poop jokes are going overboard, gently steer

At quiet: writer, avid reader (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory), stuffed animal maker

him toward another topic or try calling him a “hippo kisser” to start a fresh round of cleaner jokes.

Blink and it’s over! Whether you call

In pockets: cool sticks, dead bugs, fun rocks

them toddlers, preschoolers or just little kids, there’s no doubt these munchkins are

a

hilarious

handful. While

the

Aspiring woodworker, chef, spy (“if it’s legal”)

technical label for this period in life may be fuzzy, one thing is perfectly clear: This time of insatiable curiosity, sudden tears and limitless energy is wildly fun and challenging for parents and children alike, so jump on and enjoy the ride!

Deborah is a mother and frequent contributor to parenting magazines.

Looking forward to: settling the Wild West in social studies

Open House Friday, November 21 9 AM - Noon 434.978.1700 www.freeunioncountryschool.org CharlottesvilleFamily.com

71

Happy Holidays Tips for Getting That Perfect Holiday Portrait

72

November 2014

By Robin Bethke

{inspiration fun}

s

Happy Holiday 1

Happy Holidays

2

At this time of year, right around Thanksgiving, I begin to pray for our first snow. It’s not because I crave a good day of death-defying sledding. (I let the guys do that risky stuff, I’d rather be the one taking the pictures.) It’s so I can round up the family for our annual Christmas card portrait. What a job! We all get dressed up in holiday colors and warm winter coats (whether it’s cold or not), leash up the dog, grab the camera and the tripod, gather up a few props for the shot and traipse outside looking for the perfect set-up for this year’s holiday card.

Every year, it’s the same battle between my unyielding will to

cherish good family portraits and this time of year is the perfect

get just the right shot and my family’s desire to get it over with.

time to line a photo session up and have something to share with

I relentlessly work at it until I’ve got the shot (and yes, that

family for the holidays.

means dozens of shots with me running back and forth to look

Because I am a photographer, friends and family will often

at the shots and reset the self-timer, so I’m sure you can feel

ask me for picture pointers. And since so many families will use

their pain). By now my family accepts the headache and for the

pictures from vacations or want to take a nice family portrait on

most part tolerates me. In the end, despite ourselves and the

Christmas morning when having a professional there isn’t an

exasperations, we always end up with a portrait to be proud of.

option, I thought it would be helpful to share some tips to help

Each year I hear, “Oh! What a beautiful card you always send!”

improve your family portrait no matter where you are. Hopefully

and it makes me chuckle — if they only knew what it took to get

this will help you have that holiday greeting card you will always

it! But I wouldn’t have it any other way. There are few photos

cherish, too.

of us I cherish more; and being a photographer and graphic

When it comes to group portraits, you want to remember

designer, doing the shot and designing the card myself is where

three important things — the “three Cs,” if you will. The first

all the fun is for me.

C is color-coordinated. Dress the whole group as you would one

That said, hiring a pro (as I was in my former life) to take

outfit. The second C is putting your group in a clean background.

your Christmas card portrait is something I highly recommend.

The background should be simple, not distracting as well as

We are very lucky to have some truly talented photographers in

complimentary to the color scheme of your group’s clothing. The

our community. I think it’s really worthwhile to take and have to

third C is composition. You don’t want your group to just stand

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

73

{inspiration fun} there. The easiest rule of thumb for good composition is to create a triangle with your subjects. On pages 73 and 76, you’ll find some shots (of no one I know) that will help in the discussion of what can go

Charlottesville

wrong with photos for a holiday card and

Soccer Academy is

how to get yours right.

pleased to continue

The family in example 1 did a great job

the Winter STARS

Girls and Boys, Teams and Individual U10, U11 & U12

of being color-coordinated and composed.

programs, aimed at

Winter STARS Program Fundamentals

though, aren’t very bright. This gives the

providing offseason training and playing

They’re all wearing blues with only a couple of accenting colors. The colors,

• Professional technical and tactical training

photos overall a muddy, grey look, which

• Compete in regional tournaments

is not very flattering to the skin for this

• Provide a positive, educational, and

handsome family. (The outfits worn by

opportunities!

enriching soccer experience

the family on page 72 illustrate how good color choices can dramatically influence and liven up a photo and skin tone.)

This is our third year of the CSA Winters Stars Training Camps. In December 2013, CSA Winter STARS teams were champions and finalists in their Divisions at the Atlantic Cup in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

If you look at the arrangement of the family in example 1, though, you can draw a triangle around the subjects, no matter how many are in the shot. This is good basic composition. Our eyes find triangles very pleasing in composition. Your eyes

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will naturally be lead around from subject to subject as you study the image, which keeps the viewer engaged in the subjects. In composition, you want this kind of “rise and fall.” It gives the image movement and the

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viewer a pleasing and engaging experience.

The one element this photographer didn’t pay attention to, though, in the outtake shot of just the two kids, is a clean background. The building in the background — and to a lesser extent the other figures in the distance — distracts the

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viewer, drawing you away from the subject and causing you to study the background and wonder about what’s there. This distraction pulls you out of the magical expression that these precious girls have and do the image a great disservice.

It is the fault of many photographers, both amateur and professional, to be so focused on their subjects that they don’t notice what’s in the background and ruin a good shot — as in example 2. It usually only takes a couple of steps in a different

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74

November 2014

direction to clean up a background and move away from distracting objects as illustrated in this set of examples. The house’s roof line is cutting through the top of grandpa’s head and the harsh shapes of the black windows and door are heavily competing with the family in the

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image, despite their nice expressions. This is making it hard for the viewer to know what to focus on. The family is also not composed and is looking awkward.

In the card photo, the photographer moved away from the house by only a couple of steps and improved the image dramatically. The family has been brought closer together as well and into a formation that creates a bit more rise and fall, thus more compositional interest. Neither the background nor the composition of the card photo is what I would call excellent,

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but the fact that the entire family is in color-coordinating dress essentially saves the photo and makes it a respectable snapshot that could be “card worthy.” If the photographer had taken a moment to

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compose the group into a triangle, maybe he or she could have turned this snapshot moment into a beautiful portrait.

Considering the photos in example 3, I have to admit, makes me think that it does help to be beautiful and fit, doesn’t it? But, nonetheless, this photographer is working pretty hard to create this fashion-savvy portrait. Everyone is color-coordinated (and chic) and the background is as clean and simple as the outfits. This level of simplicity of color and background are the hallmarks of fashion photography.

Even given those qualities though, you can see here how the outtake shot still has the elements of a snapshot and the card shot has become a portrait through the added effort of a very solid triangular composition. One member of this family of four is missing behind the camera in every shot I found of them. A camera with a self-timer would have come in very handy for them!

So the next time you pick up your camera to take a photo of the family this holiday season or on your next vacation, take a moment to consider those three Cs: color-coordination, a clean background and good composition. And may all your holiday card wishes come true!

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77

{until next time humorous reflections}

Want a Ride to the Mall?

You’ll Have to Catch Me!

by Rick Epstein

Did you ever get an idea that was so smart that you wondered where it came from? May I tell you about mine?

Determined but amused, Wendy took off after me. For a good time, there’s nothing like being chased around and

Like many teenagers, Wendy does not especially enjoy

around a parked car by someone you love. Then, to finish

doing things with her parents. Gone are the days when

the workout, I sprinted down the street. She’s a little faster

she and I would play “rodeo” on the living-room rug. I’d be

than me, but she didn’t want to get all sweaty before going

down on all fours and 6-year-old Wendy would climb onto

visiting. I only gave it 90 percent myself, not wanting a heart

my back. I’d be the bull and the announcer, too. “Now here’s

attack.

Wendy Epstein, a young cowpoke from Laramie, Wyoming,

Our lives will be different now, I thought. As often as

taking a ride on Whirlagig, the meanest romper-stomper on

Wendy needs transportation, we will have a hilarious romp.

the rodeo circuit.” Then I’d spring into action, spinning and

The exercise will do me good, and Wendy, having to win a

bucking. Usually, I could throw her without hurting her.

ride, will begin to appreciate my services. I would write a

Then she’d climb back on for another round, this time

book — “The Rick Epstein Way to Fun and Fitness” — and

hailing from another Western town and riding another bull

it would sell a million copies. But no matter how rich and

— Cyclone or Widowmaker or Hammerhead. But as Wendy

famous I got, I would always make Wendy catch me before

got bigger, the game got to be too much for me (and my

my agent drove her anywhere.

knees).

Then came the Saturday night she wanted to go visit

We still liked to play rough, so we’d wrestle on the carpet.

her boyfriend. She sat in the passenger seat while I stood

But at about age 10, she got uncomfortable

nearby. “Sorry, but we’re not going until you catch me.” I said.

with the physicality of it. I miss the

If she thought she could out-wait me, she was wrong.

horsing around, although I got

I’m 56 and my wife and my TV set weren’t going anywhere.

a taste of it last year when

Wendy is the one with a dynamic social life that she was

she beat me at one-on-

I miss the horsing around, although I got a taste of it last year when she beat me at one-on-one field hockey in the yard.

dying to get to.

one field hockey in the

In a few minutes her impatience boiled over and she

yard. I’ve asked for

lunged out of the car yelling, “I’m gonna kill you!” It wasn’t

a rematch, but she

the merry cry of a playfellow; it was the exasperated

never has the time.

battle cry of a taunted teenager. When she caught me, she

She’s always rushing

pounded on my back with her little fists.

off somewhere.

As we trudged back to the car, she muttered, “You are so

Then one day I

annoying.” My idea of fun was her idea of being oppressed

was in the driveway

and teased. My great idea lay in the gutter, twitched once

when Wendy, now 15,

and then expired.

came out to ask for a ride

When I was Wendy’s age, my dad spent his free time in

to the mall. I knew what

an armchair reading the newspaper. Would I have liked to

she wanted, but as she walked

chase him? Sure, but he wasn’t that kind of guy.

toward me, I walked away — just

I’m disappointed, but not defeated. I’m sure there’s

to be playful. When she broke into a

another brilliant idea headed my way, although it may be

run, so did I. Suddenly it was a fun chase, with both of us

approaching slowly and from a long way off.

laughing. I didn’t get far, but I figured I was onto something.

The next day Wendy wanted a ride to a girlfriend’s house. I said, “Sure, but you gotta catch me!” and I dashed out the front door.

Contact Rick at rickepstein@yahoo.com. He’s got nothing but time.

78

November 2014

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