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letter from the editor 4 preserving memories 6 mom you should know 8 heat stroke 10 couch talk
prepping for back to school 12
summer smoothies 16 date night diva 18
contents successful mom?20 get out & get fit cardio kickboxing 21
fun & games
puzzles 22 perpetual motion 24
community calendar 26 ask the mom beating summer boredom 30
OUR TEAM Matt Scearce – Designer/Layout Eva Williams - Sales Priscilla Metros - Sales Mindy Gear – Contributing Writer Brooke Recktenwall – Contributing Writer Beth Whitaker – Contributing Writer Emma Kester – Contributing Writer Nichole Odijk DeMario – Contributing Writer Amber Neace – Contributing Writer
Front Cover Photo By: balee images Table of Contents Photo By: balee images Advertising & Submissions: Mom to Mom, NWI LLC 6212 US HWY 6 Ste. 170, Portage, IN 46368 • (219) 973-5138 Managing Editor / Publisher: Stephanie Vega Edwards stephanie@momtomomnwi.com Sales / Publisher: Roly Martinez 773-416-0665 • rolym05@comcast.net Mom to Mom, NWI is a monthly publication by Mom to Mom, NWI LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. All photographs and articles submitted become the sole property of Mom to Mom, NWI.
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It’s A Girl! After what seemed like the longest pregnancy in history, the wait is over! The newest addition to our family is finally here! Daniella Jean Edwards was born on July 17th at 12:11am. 22 ½ inches long and weighing in at a whopping 10 pounds 3 oz, Daniella made sure her entrance into the world was a BIG one! When they placed her in my arms, a wave of emotions washed over me. To say it was love at first sight would be an understatement! I was immediately lost in those chubby cheeks, jet black hair, and tiny fingers and toes, and words continue to fail me when I try to describe how I felt at that exact moment. Those powerful feelings have not gone away; every day that passes, I fall more and more in love, and those sleepless nights mean nothing when I have a beautiful baby girl looking up at me. Being the mother of a new baby is a magical thing, and I feel so lucky to have another chance to do it all over again. I’m so proud to introduce my daughter to all of you and to thank you for following along with me as my family took this journey. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and since I truly feel speechless about my new daughter, I’ll let you see for yourself how wonderful she is. Thank you to Brandi Lee of Balee Images for capturing my sweet girl and our new family of 5 during her first few days of life.
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Northwoods 5
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preserving memories: make this summer last forever
by: brandi lee
As a professional photographer, I spent a lot of my time this summer documenting other families’ memories and milestones. However, as a mom, I know all too well how easy it is to forget the camera bag at home, to realize your battery isn’t charged on the rare occasion that you did remember to throw the bag in the car, or to simply be too caught up in the moment to have an extra hand to take pictures. I wonder how many of our school-aged children will be assigned the “what did you do this summer?” essay later this month? Will we have a picture to send in with them? Even more importantly, 5 years from now, will they remember what we did this summer? Will WE? I’m assigning you all a little piece of back-to-school homework that’s perfect for all mothers – even if your kids aren’t in school yet! You don’t need a camera, and it’s multiple-choice! You can choose which assignment you like best, or maybe be an over-achiever and do both.
Assignment One: Print Those Cell-Phone Pictures! I will admit it: I’m addicted to my phone. Not necessarily the part of it that allows me to talk to anyone; let’s be honest – I rarely have an uninterrupted conversation any more! But I love all the ways it helps me stay organized and connected, and I especially love the camera. GASP! Yes, I have several very lovely professional-level cameras, but my iPhone camera is pretty great for capturing that silly moment in the freezer section at the grocery store or that ice cream cone we decided at the last minute to get on the way home. I don’t always have my real camera with me, and I’m betting you don’t either. My iPhone doesn’t replace my camera or professional pictures, but it certainly does a wonderful job of capturing some otherwise-missed moments. I prefer to keep track of my cell phone pictures through Instagram. The number one reason that I have stuck with the app is that it
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allows me to store and print my pictures. I print through a company called Prinstagram; they have all kinds of cool options: prints, posters, calendars, and memory boxes. I wanted something that my kids could hold and touch, since most of the pictures are of them. I went with the spiral bound albums, and I LOVE them. The boys get them out all the time and flip through them and talk to each other about the pictures. It is just so easy; I can’t get enough! I’ll be printing another batch at the end of the month so we can look back on our most recent adventures.
Assignment Two: Get Out a Pen & Paper! Okay, so maybe you don’t take pictures with your cell phone or you haven’t tried Instagram yet, so you don’t have anything to print. Never fear! It’s time to go old school, people. This one’s a writing assignment, though you don’t really have to use a pen and paper – you can definitely use your computer for this one. This idea is a spin-off of something my older son and I have been doing since last year. He and I have a journal that we write back and forth to each other in. Sometimes we’ll write several times a day, and other times we’ll go a week or two between letters. He and I have really enjoyed it.
I love the idea of writing a letter to your children, describing the things you did this summer. Keep it simple and design a chart on your computer: things we did, places we went, foods we ate, books we read, friends we visited. You don’t even have to remember dates…just fill it in! Or maybe you like the idea of penning a letter in your own handwriting (this one speaks to the sentimental history buff in me). List your favorite memories, the little things you loved about summer and how experiencing it with your children changed your perspective. One of the things I love most about my baby book is seeing my mom’s handwriting and reading what she wrote about a specific time in my life. I’ve seen the pictures a million times, but her writing gets me every time. I’d love to bring back some of the more traditional ways of preserving memories and incorporate them into our family’s keepsakes.
Who’s ready to get busy?? Brandi Lee is a professional photographer and owner of Balee Images, based in LaPorte, Indiana. She is a mother to two boys, ages 6 and 3.
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Mom You Should Know
By Nichole Odijk DeMario
Ellen Egert
Ellen Egert has been described as...
elementary school she returned to teaching.
“The most wonderful person you could Over the years, she says she has diligently adapted her curriculum to meet the trends of ever hope to meet.” The mother of two brings her maternal qualities to her classroom at St. Michael’s School in Schererville, where she teaches preschool and pre-kindergarten. “I knew when I was younger I definitely wanted to work with little kids. I get to see their smiling faces and help them grow academically, socially and even emotionally. I truly love what I do,” Egert says. When Egert and her husband Steve started a family, she elected to stay at home with their daughters Megan, now 22, and Melissa, now 19. She was a troop leader, coach and was involved in all aspects of her daughters’ lives as was her husband. When the girls were both in
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the times, while ensuring her students have the building blocks they need to succeed. “I’m a very firm believer in hands on learning. They can learn so much at this age, but it doesn’t have to be paper and pencil. They can learn so much from their environment,” Egert says. “…The classroom is a loving environment.” In today’s world where technology is infused into nearly aspect of life, Egert finds her students are more than technologically prepared, but sometimes struggle with the basics. “Remember to do some of the simple things like coloring, board games, go on a scavenger hunt, play at the park,” she encourages.
The one thing she hopes the parents of her students realize is that she recognizes the value of the role she has in shaping these young lives. “They let me teach their children. It’s a gift to me. I cherish them as much as they do,” Egert says. While teaching is her passion, according to Egert, motherhood is one of the most vital roles of her life. She says even though her daughters are grown, she loves knowing their relationship is still important. “Dropping them both off at college was one of the hardest things I’ve done, but I wanted that experience for them and for my daughters to become independent,” Egert says. “It’s wonderful when they call me up and want advice or when they would ask for us [she and her husband] to come visit.” Egert says when her children were older and she had more free time she made a valiant effort to focus on herself and took up a more active lifestyle with biking and running. She is also a volunteer within her church community and takes part in a book club. “Carve out a little time for yourself. It makes you a better wife, mother, friend. Whatever it is - exercise, a craft, helping someone else. It’s hard when your children are little, but if you can do it, do it,” Egert recommends. She was recognized by one of her former student’s parents, Jennifer Poskin. “When I think of Jennifer, I see a mom who is very involved with her children, the school and parish. She is also a working mom. She appreciated and recognized the love I have for her kids. I’m honored. This reinforces the joy I get from what I do,” Egert says. “As I get older, I’ve learned it’s really important to be true to yourself. Do the best you can and you’ll get the rewards from all that you do.” Want to recognize a mom in your community? Send us an email at momtomomnwi@gmail.com. 9
family health by: shelia pochron
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With summer in full swing, we’ve all experienced the long hot days. But now that it’s August, the extreme heat will really set in – and combine that with our kids getting more involved with those long sports practices and it’s not a good combination. If you are like my family, many days are spent out at the pool or beach and then throw in baseball and football practices. The high temperatures bring along the threat of heat stroke (also called sun stroke) which can affect children as well as adults. Many athletes will fall victim to heat stroke this summer – and this could lead to potentially deadly affects. Last year in the United States alone, five athletes and one coach died from heat related illness.
Symptoms of heat stroke vary in their intensity. Mild symptoms of heat related illness include cramps, fainting and exhaustion. The symptoms related to heat stroke are caused initially by dehydration. The dehydration related symptoms is why many athletes will experience some form of heat stroke during the long hours of practice and games. Pushing water on hot days is the best means of preventing dehydration. The dehydration will lead to inability to control your body temperature which will lead to an elevated body temperature. Other early signs of heat stroke to watch for are headache, nausea, dizziness, inability to sweat despite temperature, red hot skin, and muscle cramps. When early symptoms occur it is necessary to remove your child from the heat rest and hydrate. If the symptoms continue without removing the source (the heat and dehydration) it can lead to serious and life threatening illnesses. Late signs of dehydration and heat stroke include fainting, seizures, rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, and confusion. If you or your child experience any
of these symptoms, it is critical to go to the nearest emergency room for treatment. The emergency room will work to replenish the lost fluid volume and electrolytes, and reduce the body temperature to counteract the effects of the heat. My six-year old experienced a mild case of heat stroke last summer after a long day spent at the pool, mixed with not enough fluids. The heat exposure caused her to have a fever, nausea, vomiting and weakness. We were able to keep her home and treat her without having to seek medical attention. We reduced her body temperature with a cool bath, increased her fluid intake over the next 24 hours, and gave her pedialyte to help replenish the lost electrolytes. We were lucky that we caught the symptoms early and did not need to seek any further treatment. Our experience from last summer will definitely influence the way I coach Pop Warner Cheerleading this summer. Hopefully I will be able to prevent any other child from experiencing these symptoms.
Tips for coaches to reduce risk of heat related illness: 1. Reduce the hours of practice during high heat times. Gradually increasing practice times over a 2 week period will help athletes to acclimate to the heat. 2. Athletes should be weighed in before and after every practice to determine the amount of fluid an athlete is losing from sweating during the practice. 3. Allow for light clothing to be worn as much as possible during practice to allow for cooling. 4. Provide frequent water breaks to prevent dehydration. A break should be provided every 30 to 45 minutes to allow athletes to cool down and replenish the fluids they are losing through sweating. 5. Provide shade during practices to give a place to avoid the sun and heat during practices. 6. Monitor athletes during practice to watch for any signs of heat related illnesses. If you or another coach suspect that an athlete is experiencing any heat related symptoms, it is important to remove them from practice and begin to cool them down. The severity of symptoms being experienced will determine what type of treatment will be necessary.
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family health
Couch Talk prepping for back to school
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Summer has quickly flown by and now we are prepping for back-to-school. Some parents are over the moon about their children returning to school, while others feel anxious or worried. Aside from our own feelings about back-toschool, we need to consider how our children are feeling during this transition. Back-to-school anxiety is normal for many children after a long summer break. Some children are nervous to start school for the first time while others worry about changing to a different school. If your child is changing schools or starting school for the first time, this list below may help ease their transition to school. These are particularly helpful for children who are prone to separation anxiety.
by Beth Whitaker Beth@momtomomnwi.com
Help your child become more comfortable being apart from you by having them spend a little time away a few times a week. Build time as you go along. Talk to your child about what to expect at school. Help them understand how the morning routine will go along with the drop off or bus pick up procedure. Try to find one or two children who will be in your child’s class or at their school and arrange for your child to meet that child before the start of school. A play date with a future classmate could ease first day stress. If your child is not a worrier, don’t create worry for them. Our children can sense our worry or anxiety so try to keep your feelings about back-to-school away from the child. Don’t create stress where there isn’t any to begin with. Build excitement for school by taking your child shopping for school supplies. Allow them to pick some of their own supplies to prepare their backpack for the first day of school. Bedtime can vary over the summer with evening activities so try to gradually get your child back to a bedtime that is reasonable for school. Move bedtime back 15 to 20 minutes every few days until you reach the ideal bedtime for your child. Read books with your child that discuss going to school. Some books that my son enjoyed were A Place Called Kindergarten and The Night Before Kindergarten. See if you are able to go to the school before the first day so your child can see their classroom, cubby and desk. Let them walk around to become more familiar with the school. Get prepared the night before the first day of school by letting your child help pack his or her lunch or pick out their outfit. Pack their backpack and then spend extra quality time together before an early bedtime. Be prepared for the first day and do not oversleep. Make sure the first morning runs smoothly. If your child is especially nervous for the first day of school, pack a familiar object in their backpack that reminds them of home. Create a unique goodbye for you and your child that gives you a clear exit once you get to school. Goodbyes can drag on and on when a child is anxious so make a plan for the final goodbye on the first day. Using that unique goodbye repeatedly will be comforting to your child. Make a plan for yourself during the goodbye process. Don’t linger or act worried while leaving your child at school. Try to hold back the tears until you are out of sight. Celebrate the end of the first day of school and do not arrive late for pickup. Make sure your child knows how proud you are that they had a great first day of school. This enthusiasm will create excitement for the next day of school. Be patient throughout this process. It may take a few weeks for the child to fully adjust to the new schedule. Maintain the consistent morning routine and the short goodbyes. Your child will adjust in no time.
Back-to-school can be an exciting time with new beginnings for children. Taking the time to do a few things from this list might help your child transition more smoothly and with less anxiety. Help them have a great start to a new year. 13
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Summer Smoothies
By: Mindy Gear
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This month I have lots of alone time! My daughter is off spending time with her Grandma, at a friend’s house or horse camp. The house is so quiet; I almost don’t know what to do with myself. With no one being home, the house has actually stayed clean and my laundry is all caught up. How is that even possible? For the first time- in a long time- I can actually say I AM BORED!! I enjoy spending time with my little one and miss her when she is gone. We do most everything together. As I’ve mentioned before, one of our favorite things to do together is cook (right after we finish getting pedicures). When she was younger, we did much simpler “cooking” projects together. We started out with simple chopping and measuring jobs; now, she tackles much bigger cooking tasks. I’m sure we all know that patience is a huge part of working with our little ones. Things might not go as quick or neat as when we do them ourselves, but the time spent with your child is worth it. It might not be a show-piece, but it will taste wonderful and
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eats your child will be proud of their work. Cooking is also a great way for kids to develop. Using a dull knife to chop bananas or other soft fruits/veggies will help with their fine motor skills. Let them help you knead bread or other dough or try making homemade pasta. Icing cookies or adding sprinkles, anything hands-on is great! Helping measure out ingredients for cookies, cakes or other recipes is great counting or math practice. Start when they are little with “we need three scoops of this” and as they grow you can add fractions into the mix. My daughter loves the challenge of doubling a recipe. Instead of ¾ cup, now how much do we need? I know it is summer, but keeping in practice is always a good idea!
Sliced Banana
A great simple snack for little ones to help is a simple Sliced Banana with melted chocolate and a scoop of yogurt. 1 banana sliced 1 Tbsp chocolate chips, melted Scoop of vanilla yogurt (or whipped cream for a treat) Slice a banana and arrange on plate. Drizzle with melted chocolate and add yogurt. You can also add chopped nuts or shredded coconut. Try using strawberries instead of chocolate. Summer is a great time to experiment with smoothies! With so many fruits in season, you have lots of options to try. Your children can help you pick, cut and blend the fruit. One thing I try to convince my husband - smoothies aren’t milkshakes!!! A smoothie isn’t supposed to be ice-cream sweet. It is okay to sweeten a smoothie with honey, agave nectar, maple syrup or sugar. Try decreasing the amount used over time. If you use well-ripened fruits, you should have a delicious flavored smoothie without extra sweetener. Many use frozen fruit, but you can always add a few ice cubes with the fresh fruit. A smoothie can be as simple or complex as you want to make it. It may contain dairy, or not. Let your kids’ help you toss in the ingredients and push the buttons. Maybe even sneak a few greens in the blender. There is a great green smoothie recipe below. Come up with a crazy name for your smoothie recipes. Maybe it will entice everyone to try it. Happy experimenting!
Chocolate Banana Smoothie
1 cup of soy, almond or low-fat milk 1 Tbsp honey (more to taste) 2 frozen bananas 1 Tbsp cocoa Try adding a scoop of peanut or other nut butter.
Tropical Smoothie
1 cup frozen mango or tropical mix fruit (papaya, pineapple) 1 cup low fat yogurt (regular or greek) 1 Tbsp sugar (more/less to taste) 2 Tbsp water ¼ tsp vanilla 1 tsp fresh lime or lemon juice Dash salt and nutmeg (optional)
Strawberry Banana Smoothie
1 frozen banana (peel fresh banana, cut into chunks and freeze) ½ cup strawberries 1 cup almond milk ¼ tsp vanilla (optional)
Green Smoothie
1 banana 2 cups kale or spinach 1 cup frozen berries 2 cups frozen mango, papaya, pineapple or strawberries 1-2 cups of water (add ½ cup at a time until preferred consistency) Cut banana and add all ingredients in blender. Blend and add water as needed. There are many websites devoted to smoothie making. I liked www.incrediblesmoothies.com for great information about the benefits of smoothies. They have tips on how to make a perfect smoothie.
r u o y y o j n e u Hope yo mer smoothies!! sum
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eats By: Emma Kester 49’er Drive-In Theatre
675 N Calumet Ave Valparaiso, IN 46383 (219) 462-6122 For movie listings: www.49erdrivein.com Concession stand-cash only
There’s nothing like a summer night. The sun sets late, a cool breeze takes the place of the hot sun, and it is instantly the backdrop for a beautiful night out. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a night like the one I just describe, then you should head over to the 49’er Drive-In. Located right off of Indiana Route 49 - which is how it gets its name- the 49’er is great fun for the whole family. Unfortunately, there are not many drive-ins around anymore so this classic tradition is something great we can share with our children. I remember going all the time when I was younger, and the memories I created were unforgettable. My family would pack a picnic basket and head to the movies- it was one of my fondest memories of childhood. I’m so glad my kids will experience that feeling as well. The 49’er is one of the few drive-in’s still operating in the entire country! I think that alone makes it a great experience. The theatre has a tradition of starting the night by playing the national anthem and by playing “Beep Beep (The Little Nash Rambler)”. For those of you old enough to remember this, it’s funny vintage movie ads and the vintage singing food and talking hot dogs. Who doesn’t love the nostalgia of a drive-in movie?! The Drive-In is very spacious and welcoming. Each night offers a double feature for less than the cost of one ticket at your ordinary movie theater - you can’t find a deal like this anywhere! They have a cute little concession stand with a great assortment of snacks for a good price. They do not make a huge profit on their ticket sales, so if you do go there don’t forget to visit the concession stand! It helps to support the drive-in and guarantees it will be around for years to come! Let’s all go to the movies!
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Valpo Velvet Ice Cream
55 Monroe St # 57 Valparaiso, IN 46383 (219) 464-4141
This has to be one of the cutest ice cream shops I have ever been to! Hidden on a little side street in downtown Valparaiso, Valpo Velvet is a place you surely don’t want to miss! The building is attached to the factory which is owned and operated by the Brown family. They make Valpo’s Velvet Ice Cream/Yogurt right there, and you can either enjoy some in their shop or buy some from your local grocery store. They also have a great food menu – perfect for lunch or dinner, and they offer a nice dining room as well as picnic tables outside where you can enjoy your food. All their ice cream is homemade and there are tons of flavors to choose from. Just to name a few: Vanilla, Chocolate, Peppermint Stick, Butter Pecan, Burgundy Cherry, Moosetracks, Black Walnut, Bubble Gum, Coffee, Espresso, Fudge Oreo, and Carmel Swirl…OK more than a few but there are just so many favorites!!!! They also offer Sherbet and Yogurt which are 98% fat free. Valpo Velvet has so many amazing menu items - no matter what you order you can’t go wrong. And I can’t forget to mention that they have homemade waffle cones, ice cream bars, drumsticks, hand-dipped bananas, cookiewich sandwiches, seasonal pies, cakes and cupcakes! This would be a fun place to visit before you head down to the drivein to catch a movie with your family!
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editorial by: Krystal Taylor
being a successful mom? to Be a Twin Mom” book at least three times. Nowhere in that book did it tell me how to handle a game of poop dodge ball in the early morning hours. My youngest son, Ethan, would poop his pants, and then throw it at his sister. In return, she would throw it back. I would walk into a room covered in poop every day for at least a month. Finally, since the “mom books” didn’t have the answer, I created my own….duct tape. Oh yes, I said it: duct tape. I cut the feet off of his jammies, put them on him backwards, and duct taped them under his armpits. Now, some may think this is cruel, some may think I am a terrible mother, and some may wonder, why didn’t I think of that?! The point is….eventually, it worked. Once I learned how to tape him up really well at nighttime, the poop dodge ball finally ended!
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Trying to clean my bathroom over and over just to remove that faint smell of urine seems almost impossible and pointless. For those of you who have boys, I am sure you can commiserate with my pain here. Sometimes, I wonder why I even bothered to teach them how to use the restroom! Yeah, I did all the things they tell you to do in the “How to Be a Successful Mom” book, but not so surprisingly, none of those techniques have seemingly worked. Under the potty training section, it should read, “It’s a messy job; order a lifetime supply of Lysol.”
Another fun topic not discussed in those mom books is how to handle being mortified in public by your children. Maybe some of you have been blessed with the gift of handling these situations with grace; I on the other hand, was not. Normally, I just make it worse. After another one of those tough questions from my son, about drinking and driving, I thought I finally nailed a “mom talk.” I thought I explained it well enough for him to understand. Well, to my surprise I explained it a little too well. I picked him up from school one day, after going to Dunkin Donuts for a coffee; I decided to stop at the grocery store. He mentioned something about my drinking and driving. I just assumed that he meant that I had coffee in my hand and should wait until I stopped the car to take a drink. WRONG! We get into the store, start walking down a crowded aisle, and he asks, “Mom, you are not going to drink and drive again on the way home, are you? You know that’s against the law!” I didn’t even know what to say, I just scurried out of the aisle as fast as I could! I got in the car, and realized, I had, yet again, failed another “mom talk”.
Speaking of those “How to Be a Successful Mom” books, there a lot of things I think back on and wonder - who on earth writes this stuff?! Where are the answers to the really tough questions? Yes, I was one of those people who read the books before giving birth to my first child, and I even read them when I found out I was having twins. But let’s be honest, there is no manual in the world that can prepare you for motherhood. In fact, I read the “How
You know, maybe I should write my own “How to Be a Successful Mom” book. I will include sections on messy bathroom situations, both inside and outside of the bathroom. It will also include: how to handle being mortified in public and how to give a proper “mom talk” for the really tough questions - once I figure out all of the answers, that is! Expect this book to come out around the time I am 80 or so!
family health by: Brooke Recktenwall
This month’s Get Out & Get Fit workout brought me to Maxim Gym in Hobart, Indiana. Armando Reyna, owner and instructor, runs an impressive business offering Jiu-Jitsu, kickboxing, boxing, cardio-kickboxing and conditioning instruction. Armando has an extensive background in martial arts and has studied under the legendary Carlson Gracie - whose father founded Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Rio Di Janero in the 1920’s. Ana Reyna, Armando’s wife extended the invitation for me to come and try their cardio-kickboxing class that Armando offers twice a week. The class consistently has a following of MOMS – attending to get in a great workout and punch off pounds. If you are looking to try something new that pushes you to your limits, and requires that you step out of your comfort zone, keep reading - these details are for you! Maxim’s Cardio Kickboxing Explained: Cardio Kickboxing is kickboxing without the combat element. A fitness trend that is martial arts inspired and is a combination of aerobics, boxing and martial arts. Maxim’s Cardio Kickboxing Experience: As a person who is pretty open to trying anything new, I must admit, walking into Maxim Gym can be a bit intimidating if you are unfamiliar with the martial arts scene. However, the minute that you are met by Ana and Armando you couldn’t feel more welcome or at ease. Armando assisted me in wrapping my hands with the thin wraps used under boxing gloves for additional support and protection while giving me a brief history lesson on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I kicked off my shoes and socks, grabbed my shiny, unused, pink boxing
GET OUT GET FIT
CARDIO KICKBOXING
gloves and headed into the back room of the facility for class. Armando is not a fluffy, sensitive instructor - he means business! If you are at Maxim to work out then by golly he is going to offer you a good workout! The sweat was flying within minutes of starting the warm up. After the warmup was complete, I had already decided that this might possibly be the most challenging workout I had ever experienced. The workout consisted of planks, push-ups, and boxing combinations - with a partner and without. My partner, who was extremely kind and patient with me being a first timer, shared that she had lost over 100 pounds taking cardio kickboxing at Maxim. She also mentioned that since she had such success at Maxim, her husband started joining in the workouts, and her son is now taking martial arts at the gym - it has turned into a healthy family habit. After the 50 minute workout was complete, a large percentage of the class elects to stay for an additional conditioning class that follows the cardio kickboxing. The conditioning class is a 30 minute workout that Armando and Ana claim is even more challenging than the kickboxing class. It’s a must try for my next workout at Maxim Gym and trust me - I will go back- a great workout such as this is hard to find! Where to find Maxim Gym: Maxim is located in Hobart at 707 Hobart Rd. The Cardio Kickboxing class is on Tuesday and Thursdays at 6pm. Armando offers a wide range of instruction consisting of martial arts, kickboxing, boxing, conditioning fitness classes and classes for children. Check out their website at www.maxim-gym.com or call 219.614.8686 for schedule, pricing and availability.
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fun & games
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fun & games
Everyone loves a contest – but this one is for the kids!! We are asking children 10 years and under to color this page and win a chance of being published in an upcoming issue of Mom to Mom, NWI. To enter, submit this colored page to: Mom to Mom, NWI 6212 US HWY 6, Suite 170 Portage, IN 46368. We will choose a winner from three categories: 3-5 years, 6-8 years, and 9-10 years. Winners will be notified by phone or email. Good luck!!!
Name:_______________________________________________ Age:___________ Address:__________________________________________________ City:_________________________ State:______ Zip:____________ Parent’s Name:_____________________________________________ Phone Number:_____________________________________________ Email:_____________________________________________________
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fun & games
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Perpetual Motion by: Amber Neace
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Af an M ev th up a yo yo de ba
funcake/present & time, the staff passes out all the cupcakes, and passes
your child the present so you can actually take pictures, and see the surprise in your child’s face as they open a present (instead of waiting until you get back home to reopen every gift because you have no idea who gave them what!!) Perpetual Motion offers two different party packages; the standard and the deluxe. With the deluxe package, you get to choose a fun theme to go along with your party and a special gift for the birthday child. **It is suggested that you reserve the date you need at least 4 weeks in advance.
Summertime is great for those outdoor birthday parties- but often times Mother Nature has a different plan. We could find ourselves scrambling for an indoor venue, but some opt to just plan for an indoor party instead. I set out to find a place that was fun, friendly, and affordable for a family on a budget, and I was thrilled to stumble across Perpetual Motion in Valparaiso. I had the pleasure of experiencing a birthday party there this summer, and let me just say - there was not a child in attendance who didn’t have a smile on their face! Let’s start at the beginning: The moment we walked in, we were greeted by a friendly staff who gave us a name tag, directed us where to put our shoes, and took out present so we didn’t have to worry about finding a place to put it. My kids went in (who are 6 and 2 years old) and I couldn’t believe how the activities they set up worked so well with both age groups. There were three staff members in there for the party, and they were AMAZING!! They led them around to the different game stations, guided through an obstacle course, and then let the kids jump around in a bounce house and take turns jumping around on a giant trampoline. Once play time is over, the kids are seated for cupcakes and drinks while the birthday boy or girl opens their gifts. Adult guests are able to sit back and relax while their kids enjoy the party – how often does that happen? After the party, I had to find out all the particulars, and boy was I shocked when I heard Perpetual Motion took care of everything. And when I say everything, I mean EVERYTHING!! When you are the host of the party, all you have to do is show up like the rest of your guests. When you book a party, you are provided with invitations for your guests. Then you let them know what colors your child likes, and they provide the cupcakes, decorations, tableware, drinks – even the goodie bags! Seriously – how cool is that? And during
For more information on booking your next party, be sure to check out their website - perpetualsports.net or give them a call at 219476-7209. And as always, tell them Mom to Mom, NWI sent you!
Birthday Packages Standard Package $150 for up to 10 kids (birthday child is free!), $6 for each additional child • 1 hour of gym time with games, inflatable bounce house and trampoline. • ½ hour in party room for cupcakes, juice and presents. Deluxe Package $170 for up to 10 kids (birthday child is free!), $8 for each additional child Includes everything in the Standard Package plus: • A Special Theme (chosen from their list) and including the upgraded decorations and invitations. • An extra special gift for the birthday child as a thank you for letting them be a part of their celebration.
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community calendar Upcoming Races in Northwest Indiana:
*North Chicago Community Days 5K Family Fun Run and Fitness Walk
August 3rd with a start time of 8:ooam -Join the North Chicago Community Days for their Inaugural 5K Family Fun Run & Fitness Walk. The course is designed to guide runners from the Community Days event site through some of North Chicago’s most beautifully tree lined streets. Participants will get a chance to run along the Robert McClory bike path and finish their goal back at the event grounds with just enough time to refresh and enjoy the Community Days parade.
*7th Annual Runnin’ with the Devil’s 5K
August 3rd with a start time of 8:00am -This 5K Run/Walk is a flat fast course that starts on Bel Aire Drive in Lowell (next to Dairy Queen) and ends at the finish line (located on the south side of Lowell High School). Entries for this race include: Husband and Wife Team, Family Team – 3 people, and Friends Team – 4 people.
*33rd Annual Rotary Ramble
August 10th with a start time of 8:00am -This 5K takes place at DeMotte Elementary School. Registration fee is $18 before August 3rd, $23 after. You can choose the “no shirt” option and save $5.
*Superhero 5K Trot for Tripp Run/Walk and 1 mile kid’s fun run
August 11th with a start time of 9:00am -This event takes place at Robinson Lake in Hobart, with a race course that is multi-surface ad off road. Awards will be presented not only to racers, but to best superhero costume adult, and best superhero costume kids.
*2013 Dew It 13.1 Mile
August 17th with a start time of 8:00am - This half marathon takes place inside the Scenic Oak Ridge Prairie County Park in Griffith. It is primarily on grass and wooded trails with a short distance on a paved biked trail. The course loops 26
around a small lake and has a small hill to keep runners on their toes. Proceeds from this race will go to the Lake County Parks.
*CASA Superhero 5K/Fun Run
August 17th with a start time of 9:00am -Harmony House/CASA Program of La Porte County is organizing its first ever family friendly 5K/Fun Run to benefit the volunteer advocacy services that CASA provides to children in foster care. Participants are invited to dress as their favorite superhero. The race gets started at 111 Kingsbury Avenue in LaPorte and is rain or shine.
*Valpo 5 Miler
August 18th with a start time of 8:00am - This 5 mile run takes place at the Porter County Expo and Fairgrounds. Race fee is $25. All proceeds of the race will be donated to charity.
*Rock N’ Rails 5K
August 31st with a start time of 12:00pm -The Griffith YMCA is hosting its 2nd Annual Rock N’ Rail 5K. The route will start and finish at the Griffith YMCA and travel down the newly renovated Broad Street, through beautiful Central Park and ties into the Bike Trail. The area’s best bands, great food vendors and activities and all of the entertainment you can handle will immediately follow the race. Participants over the age of 21 will receive a free beer in the beer garden.
*Lowell Labor Day Weekend 5K
August 31st with a start time of 8:00am -Come out and walk or run 3.1 miles to help the Tri-Creek Education Foundation. The race gets started at the Tri-Cree School Corporation Central Office in Lowell. Registration and shirt pick-up is from 6:30am-7:30am. Entry fee is $20.
*Bride of Zoy/Larry James Classic 15K Run
September 1st with a start time of 8:00am -This race is a rugged run the Calumet Trail, local roads and Lake Michigan ridges and shoreline. This race benefits the Larry James Scholarship Fund and the Chesterton/Porter Rotary. Entry fee
community calendar when registered before August 27th is $23 with a shirt, $28 after August 27th with a shirt.
*35th Annual Popcorn Panic
September 7th with a start time of 7:30am -This is the 35th running of the Popcorn Panic Race. Racers can expect some long straight runs, turns, and a few hills. This course is monitored to prevent vehicle obstruction during the race. The course map is posted race day. Live musicians perform at various areas along the course. Standard registration is $25.
-This event takes place at the Immanuel Lutheran Church and School in Valparaiso. Proceeds benefit the Immanuel Food Pantry. 10K runners can preregister until September 7th and costs $25. Preregistration for the 1-mile Kids Fun Run costs $12.
*Crusader Classic
September 21st with a start time of 8:00am -This 5K Run/2K Fun Walk gets started at 10550 Park Place in St. John. Cost per participant is $25 and includes a “Crusader Classic” tech shirt.
*2nd Annual Anyone Can Do a 5K *2nd Annual John Willems Run Around the Lake September 21st with a start time of 8:00am -The 5K, along with the 1 mile course is a flat route & 5K September 14th with a start time of 8:00am -This race starts and finishes at Hanover High School in Cedar Lake. Things get kicked off with a Kiddie Dash for ages 10 and under at 8:00am, and then there’s a 7.2 mile run around the lake starts at 8:30am – the 5K run starts at 8:40am.
*Winfield October-Fast 5K
September 14th with a start time of 8:00am -This race is a 5K Run and 2K Fun Walk and gets started at 10645 Randolph Street. Awards will be presented to the overall male and female winners as well as first three male and female finishers in each age group.
*Emerald City Hustle 5K
September 14th with a start time of 8:00am -The Duneland Family YMCA is hosting this 5K run, Flying Monkey Run. Entry fee for this race is $20. All proceeds will go to the Duneland Y Fitness Department to promote healthier living.
*Tower Run
September 15th with a start time of 9:00am -This race takes place at Washington Park in Michigan City. Costs for registration is as follows: $17 for pre-registered adults, $15 for pre-registered students, and $12 for pre-registered youth (14 and under).
*Run Into Fall 10K
September 21st with a start time of 8:00am
through the Plum Creek Subdivision across the street from Omni Health and Fitness. Race fee is $20.
*Space Race 5K
September 22nd with a start time of 8:00am -This 5K Run takes place at 2300 173rd Street in Hammond. This race benefits the Challenger Learning Center of Northwest Indiana.
*Crown Point Swim Club Triathlon
September 28th with a start time of 9:00am -The Crown Point Swim Club is proud to host their inaugural triathlon. This Sprint Triathlon is a perfect introduction race into the world of triathlon. Compete as an individual or as a team. Families are encourages to participate together. There is NO race day registration, you mush preregister!
*2nd Annual Hawaii Five-K for F.R.A
September 28th with a start time of 9:30am -This race kicks things off with a Kid’s Fun Run, and then is followed by the run and non-competitive walk and takes place at Oak Ridge Prairie County Park. This event benefits Forest Ridge Academy. Hawaii Five-O and Hawaiian attire is encouraged.
*Hoosier Burn Camp 5K Run
September 28th with a start time of 10:00am -This 5K Run gets started at Merrillville High School and goes through the subdivision south of 27
community calendar the High School. Entry fee is $25. All proceeds go to the Hoosier Burn Camp Foundation.
Family & Kid Events: *Lake County Fair
August 2nd – August 11th, all day -The Lake County Fair is set to take place this year from August 2nd to August 11th. Admission gates open at 9:00am and exhibit buildings open at 10:00am. Cost is $4 for adults, $2 for children ages 9-12, and children 8 and under are free. Parking on the fairgrounds is $4. Families can take advantage of Pepsi Family Value Day on August 6th. Fair goers can receive one afternoon wristband for 150 empty Pepsi or Crush product 12oz. cans. You can bring your cans to the Lions Pavilion between 9:00am and 1:00pm, limit one per person. (Wristband good from 12:00pm to 5:00pm)
*Bacon Fest Portage
August 24th from 10:00am-8:00pm -Bacon Fest is a festival where we bring out all the local restaurant owners from NWI to one place and they create a special menu centered around BACON to promote their business’s food, chef’s and creativity. The event takes place at the Water Tower in Founders Square Park, located on Central Avenue in Portage. The Bacon Fest will also feature live music from local and national acts, special bacon themed menus from the best of Northwest Indiana’s restaurants, inflatables for the kids, and much, much more. This one day festival is fun for the entire family!
*Central Park Plaza Market
Tuesdays and Saturdays in August from 8:00am2:00pm -Visit the market in Downtown Valparaiso weekly to shop for fresh local produce, handmade products, and beautiful plants and flowers. Live lunchtime entertainment on select Tuesdays throughout the summer. For more information, call 219.464.8332.
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Mom and Adult Events:
*Wine & Canvas August 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th starting at 6:00pm -The Blue Chip Casinos’ It’s Vegas Baby! is hosting painting classes with cocktails! During these entertaining classes, an artist walks the novice painters through the actual painting – with fun music playing and a social atmosphere. Anyone can register at wineandcanvas.com and choose he date/painting they would like to paint. All art supplies will be included, and you go home with your own original painting. The cost is $35 per person. For more information, go to www. bluechipcasino.com/whats-new/events/wine-_canvas.
*Coffee & Canvas “Beautiful Beach”
August 23rd from 6:00pm-9:00pm -Spend time with friends and complete a painting in one evening! Rhythm Rhyme & Party Time, located at 433 E. 3rd Street in Hobart will host an adult’s only painting class for three hours where you will be guided step-by-step to create at 16x20 acrylic painting. No talent or experience necessary. Coffee and cake will be served. All materials will be provided. Cost is $30 – registration is required. Class size is 16. KIDS EAT FREE OR REDUCED:
Amarillo Roadhouse –Kids eat free on Tuesday at the location in Schererville. Bob Evans – Kids eat free on Tuesday nights with the purchase of an adult entrée at Merrillville, Chesterton and Valparaiso locations. Boston’s Gourmet Pizza – Kids eat free on Sundays AND Wednesdays with the purchase of an adult entrée of $9.99 or more at the Schererville location. Buffalo Wild Wings – On Wednesday and Sunday, kids 12 and under get half-price kids meals at Buffalo Wild Wings in Valparaiso. Denny’s – Kids can eat free at Denny’s on Tuesday and Saturday night from 4pm to 10pm. For every one regularly priced adult entrée pur-
chased, two free kid’s meals are given. That means a family with four children can eat for the price of Pops Italian Beef, Dyer – On Tuesday’s, kids get a just two adult entrees. The deal is limited to chil- $.99 kids meal with the purchase of a value meal. dren 10 and under and is available at the Merrillville, Hebron, Portage and Michigan City location. Reuben’s Mexican Grill – Sunday is Family Day! Kids 10 and under eat free with the Fazoli’s – On Tuesdays, kids 12 and under eat for purchase of an adult entrée. Dine in only. $.99 from 5pm to 8pm at the Valparaiso location. Shenanigan’s Pub and Eatery – Kids eat free on WednesGolden Corral – All day, every day, kids 3 and un- day’s and Sundays with the purchase of an adult ender eat FREE from the buffet with the purchase of an trée. Shenanigan’s is located on Route 20 in Portage. adult meal (limit 2) at the Merrillville location. Kids ages 4-7 are $2.99, 8-10 are $4.99, and 11 and 12 year Texas Roadhouse – On Monday nights, the Dyer location has $.99 kids meals, with the purchase of an olds are $5.99. A drink is included in the price. adult entrée. There is a limit of 2 kids meals per famGoodfellas Bar and Grill, Cedar Lake – Kids get a free ily. Andy Armadillo, the mascot, can also be found meal when an adult entrée is purchased. The daily on these nights, walking around the restaurant and special is not included in this deal. playing with the kids! Quaker Steak and Lube – On Wednes- ***Do you have an event you want to share with us? day’s, the Portage location offers a $3.99 kids Just send an email to Stephanie@momtomomnwi.com. meal, all day long. This includes a drink. The deadline for your entry is due by the 15th.
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feature
SUMMER READING
Picking up a good book is something we try and find time to do, especially in the summer months. Nothing beats curling up with a book at the beach, by the pool, or on the deck outside while your kids play and run around. Since there is still a month left for us to take advantage of summer reading, we decided to ask our Facebook fans the following: “What book would you recommend as a great summer read?” And we wanted to know the specifics! So here’s what some of our moms had to say:
Elyse K., “The House of Night Series- its genre is fantasy. House of Night is a thrilling and engaging book series that follows 16-year-old Zoey Redbird who gets “marked” by a vampire tracker and beings to undergo the “change” into an actual vampire. She has to leave her family in Tulse and move into the House of Night, a boarding school for other fledglings like her. It’s within the school’s walls that the heart of the action takes place as Zoey meets new friends, finds love, and comes to terms with how her life will be different now, and begins to realize her awesome new powers. Here’s the deal though: Yes, Zoey’s a vampire now but she’s still a teenager – complete with all the humor, angst, and confusing feelings any other teenager has.” 30
Liz S., “The Fault in Our Stars by John Green is an amazing book. Heart wrenching is the best word to describe it. Here’s what it’s about: Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augusts Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel’s story is about to be completely rewritten.” Dani W., “When Crickets Cry, by Charles Martin is one of those books you just can’t put down! I’m an avid reader and this one grabbed me in the first chapter. It has everything you would expect in a good southern novel, and then some. It is hard to believe that the author is not a bona fide heart transplant surgeon – he certainly is a gifted writer. The characters are so well defined, you will remember them long after you finish this book.” Kerisa G., “Snake the Gypsy is a new release from a locally born writer, Mikal O’Boyle. It’s a teen to adult age book that follows an amazing story line! Enchanting and full of adventure, the story of Snake the Gypsy, narrated by an elderly Snake is a recounting of her life as a young girl. It begins with a lonely gypsy girl who is ostracized by her own
nation and is neglected by unsympathetic mother. Times seem very hard for her as struggles to find happiness in like, until she finally befriends an extraordinary snake who follows her, protects her, and even dances with during her rigorous training sessions. When the time comes for Snake to enter into the Loce, the bi-annual gypsy festival, a horrible fate befalls the gypsy girl and her snake deserting her in place she is unfamiliar with, but she soon discovers that things have become even worse as she has stumbled in the midst of a war between two very unlikely beings. After nearly enduring a painful death, losing heart for the first time, and sacrificing herself for a hopeless case, Snake the gypsy continues on to become the elderly woman who narrates the story. The only question is, how true is a gypsy’s story? Elizabeth L., “The Ocean at the End of the Lane, by Neil Gaiman is a fantasy novel about a man returning home for a funeral and remembering the strange occurrences of an incident in his childhood. The theme of consequences is big in this short read, but it is a wonderful way to spend time in Gaiman’s world again.”
Lori G., “The Harbinger by Jonathan Cahn is a very intriguing mystery! A brief description: Hidden in ancient biblical prophecy from Isaiah, the mysteries revealed are so precise, they foretold recent American events, down to the exact days. The revelations are so specific, that even the most hardened skeptics will find it hard to dismiss or put down. It sounds like the plot ofa Hollywood thriller with one exception – IT’S REAL.” Cindy F., “Insane City, by Dave Berry is a dark comic masterpiece. It had many laugh out loud moments, which left me wondering what crazy thing would happen next. The story is about a nice guy - with friends who never grew up, is getting married to a billionaire’s daughter in Miami and there is a bachelor party beforehand. You cannot even begin to imagine all the trouble this is going to cause! Follow Seth as he tries his best to save his upcoming marriage and sanity, plus some other people he’s met along the way. It was difficult to put this book down once I got into it because the action never lets up! If you are looking for a break in your serious reading, this book will provide just that!”
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