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letter from the editor 4 infant sign language 6 kids you should know 8 swimming safety 10 couch talk
contents date night diva 18 ask the mom
beating summer boredom 20
family health
get out & get fit: yoga 23
fun & games
working moms and stress 12
keeping our kids busy 26
daddy delights 14 breaking bread
community calendar 28
summer sides 16
OUR TEAM Matt Scearce – Designer/Layout Eva Williams - Sales Priscilla Metros - Sales Mindy Gear – Contributing Writer Megan Ciszewski – 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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notes from the underbelly As editor and publisher of this fabulous magazine, I get the opportunity each and every month to share with our readers the various events and changes going on in my life, through this letter from the editor. For me, this is pretty exciting because I’ve always loved journaling but haven’t found much time for it since I became a mom and started a business. As I embark on the final month of my final pregnancy, I thought it would be appropriate to dedicate this letter to the baby who is not yet here but who will make her debut sometime this month.
Baby Girl,
n ost over. This has bee rney of ours is alm d jou an s re thi t he tha sit e I iev I can't bel s of my life! As shortest nine month y have ead alr we ow kn to both the longest and heart happened, it fills my reflect on all that's u. yo h wit are sh to so many stories
e baby,” you, not just as “th ryone talked about l so real, fee g hin ryt eve From that day on, eve de ma and “little sissy”. It er this moment but as “her,” “she,” meet you. It was aft to ed cit ex so us of d like forever me see It . and it made all LY OW move REALLY SL to d me ur heartbeat yo see e ar he tim s t tha I wanted to do wa all d an , its vis r s sick a lot, cto between do okay. You see, I wa and know you were had lots of d an , ng epi sle had some trouble than when r lie y ear aches and pains wa ters. You sis ur yo h wit t an I was pregn for sure rt” wa y orr can call me a “w You’d think ! did I all t’s tha se becau eze since I did this would be a bre y, but it sure this two times alread w to me. But ne all s wa it wasn’t – were doing u yo at every visit, worrisome my t pu t tha so great, mind to rest.
uld be we found out we wo I remember the day ore bef ay nd Mo the s expecting you: it wa "mommy intuition" Thanksgiving. I had ant and had that that I could be pregn hours later. I few a d ifie hunch ver gnancy test pre the took a picture of dad at work; I and sent it to your called me back r eve ’s don't think he turned out to so quickly! The news ion starter at sat ver con be quite the thought we We r. Thanksgiving dinne until I was ise rpr su a u yo p could kee r families ou t bu , ng about 12 weeks alo ve to let ha I . s up knew something wa the worst I’m – ret sec le you in on a litt iet! qu g pin kee at hiding things and the s time to finally share holiday, we knew it wa ions, as est tm qu ris n Ch llio mi the a g rin ask Du y’d s. We also knew the asked news with your sister re ready – kind of! We were right; they we y s most dd wa at wh t bu of, but mommy and da nk thi d anything you can girl. Your oldest about everything an you were a boy or a er eth wh s wa m ile your other wh r, the bro important to the y ced she’d have a bab vin con s the day came wa en m Wh Sa . sister have a little sister e’d sh t en fid that they con s sister Alex wa ls were so excited really were, the gir u you home yo e o tak wh t to d ou d nte fin wa to a girl - they just or boy a re ’t really we sn u wa yo it if l, didn’t care having a gir nounced that we were TeeTee nt Au ur yo ls, gir ee that day! When we an u see, I’m one of thr Yo . girls! ise ee rpr thr su ve a ha of ch uld that mu t I, too, wo only seemed right tha has three girls, so it
s the best “new But perhaps what wa experiencing all to me feeling” was got how exciting for I t. your movemen y kick for the first it is to feel your bab u had hiccups, and yo e tim t t the firs e of time, how funny it fel moving from one sid that I could see you n having bee ve ha when you got so big st mu u yo y – I told Dadd my belly to the other re! the in a party ys) from being born, t weeks (perhaps da jus ur are u yo w, no d An u decide to make yo about is when will yo be. I love l u’l yo big and all I can think w ho d an you'll look like, to grand entrance, who here – I can’t wait and you're not even y, ead alr ch you so mu finally meet you. Love always, Mom
Thank you for letting me share this letter with you. Take Care!
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feature by: Nicole Odijk DeMario
infant sign language
Communicating with your child can be a challenge at nearly every stage. Many parents struggle, especially at the infant and toddler stages due to their child’s lack of verbal abilities. Some have found signing as a means to communicate sooner.
Wendy Auffant, a Chicagoland based speech language pathologist and Baby Signs® Independent Certified Instructor teaches families how to effectively use sign language with their babies and toddlers. “There is a simple rationale behind incorporating signing into your child’s upbringing,” Auffant detailed. “Babies and toddlers go through a very natural stage of language development where their language understanding is much more developed than their verbal expression.” Auffant says the Baby Signs® Program has a multitude of benefits from reducing tears, tantrums and frustration; allowing babies to share their worlds; strengthening the parent-infant bond; boosting self-esteem and self-confidence among others.
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The program has been offered for more than two decades and stimulates social-emotional development, language development and cognitive development. “You can imagine how frustrating it must be for children to know exactly what they would like to communicate but not have the words to do so. I believe that sign language helps children communicate their wants and needs, thereby reducing frustration,” she explained. “I also think it helps families connect as children are able to share about the things they find fascinating. Communication creates stronger bonds with families.” Betty Samples of Crown Point first heard about infant signing when she was in college. Although she didn’t have children at the time, she knew it was something she wanted to try when she did. Since her son Clark was five-months-old, she and her husband have been consistently signing with him.
Clark’s first sign was “more” at eight months. “If there was a way for me to give my child the ability to communicate clearly earlier in life, I wanted to give it to him,” Samples said. “Before Clark was born, I imagined him having a rich sign language vocabulary by ten months. The reality is that he only uses the signs he wants to and that’s ok.”
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And she plans to use sign language with future children. “From the reading I have done, it’s common for some children to cling to one sign while others embrace many signs. We still work on other signs. I believe he’ll use more the older he gets.” Chicagoan Melissa Diep felt similarly about signing when she had her son Roman. “When Roman was born I had read about signing and thought it was so cool. I wanted to try it,” she said. “My husband thought it was new age, but now that Roman knows 12 different signs I think I proved him wrong.” Roman didn’t start signing until eight-months-old and has progressively added to his signing vocabulary. Diep finds his communication skills are more advanced than children his age and older. “It took months of signing the same thing over and over. It was the same consistent routine,” she explained. “There were times when I thought this was not working and felt discouraged, but when he finally signed his first word milk I was beyond ecstatic. Roman was eager to learn when he saw I understood him too.” There are countless books, websites, applications and programs like Baby Signs® dedicated to infant signing. Research is varied on its benefits. As with any parenting decision, it is all dependent on personal preference. “Most parents teach their children to wave bye, bye or hello, blow kisses, show how big they are. Signing just builds on gestures most parents already teach their babies and provides another avenue for expression,” said Auffant. If signing is something you want to explore, Auffant recommends beginning with a few signs that can be regularly used throughout the day. She also recommends signing with songs, games, books and play to keep it fun and interesting for the child as he or she learns. “I truly believe that teaching my children to sign was one of the best things I have done for my family,” she said. “Both of my children knew 50 signs as toddlers and could communicate their needs, wants and interests with me before they could talk. I want other families to experience the benefits of sign language.” For more information on Baby Signs®, go to https://www. babysigns.com.
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profile Every month we feature a different local mom making a difference in her community. Whether she goes the extra mile for her neighbors, gives her friends a shoulder to cry on, or puts on her cape so she can be Super Mom, we know it’s important to recognize these remarkable women. But this month, we decided to do something a LITTLE different. Instead of recognizing the accomplishments made by amazing moms, we decided to recognize the accomplishments made by our amazing little ones! Graduation is a milestone for every child – whether it be Pre-K, Kindergarten, or High School.
Jake Neace - Kindergarten
So – here’s to the graduating class of 2013!! Ethan Liden - Pre-K
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Isabella Gonzalez - Kindergarten
Joesph Torres - Kindergarten
Ava Wilson - Pre-K
Nick Stack - Hobart HS Sarah Stack- Kindergarten
Joesph Torres - Kindergarten
Makenzie Pochron and Samantha Edwards- Kindergarten
Marlana Hamline - Pre-K
Noah Luna - Pre-K
Julian Scearce - Pre-K
Trinity Garcia - Pre-K
Laila Hamstra - Pre-K
Matthew Ramien III- Pre-K
Danielle Poskin - Pre-K
Delaney Witt - Pre-K
Kayla Rodriguez - Pre-K
Emma Bundy - Kindergarten
Danny McGill - Kindergarten
Hannah Moisant - Pre-K
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family health by: rea robinson-ryzewski
Swimming Safety
Who can resist the call of water on a hot sunny day? Summer is all about water play, whether at a water park, splash pad, pool or beach. Fun and relaxation abound in these activities. However, though relaxed attitudes prevail during sun and sand season, safety in and around the water is a serious matter. Every year, we hear stories of devastating loss where a child has drowned. Â According to the U.S. Product Safety Commission, over 260 young children drown in backyard swimming pools and spas each year. Â An estimated 3,000 children under age five are treated in hospital emergency rooms following submersion accidents each year, some of which result in permanent brain damage. Such tragedies are greatly preventable. Keep the following in mind to keep your family safe as you enjoy yourself this summer. 10
Who is Watching the Kids? When a child drowns, the whole community mourns. Especially when it happens at a populated event such as a party or at a public pool, the question inevitably comes up, “How could this happen when so many people were around?” A simple misunderstanding about who is responsible for watching the children can have tragic results. Often times, the parent expects that with other family members and friends around, someone else will have an eye on their child. Similarly, at public pools, waterparks, and beaches, parents often mistakenly expect lifeguards to become the primary guardians of kids’ safety. Though lifeguards, family and friends can and do help, parents should always remember that they are first and foremost responsible for their own children. Never assume someone else is watching your child; if you need help, be sure to have a clear agreement that another capable adult will be watching your child diligently for you. Try this: Designate a “water watcher” to be responsible for blocks of time waterside to provide eye-to-eye supervision of young swimmers; rotate shifts with other adults so everyone gets a break.
RACTIO T S N I D
Sadly, a child can drown in as little time as it takes to answer the phone. Parents who find themselves trying to do too many things at once risk doing their most important job effectively - protecting their children. Although moms and dads need their own down-time to relax, it can be difficult to meld that with watching the kids. Skip common pool-safety mistakes, such as becoming engrossed in an electronic tablet or losing oneself in a conversation. And though that poolside margarita may sound great, it slows your reflexes and Try this: thus your ability to handle emergency Separate kids’ down situations should they arise. For time from mom’s down necessary distractions, like time; schedule your own restroom trips or important relaxing time when you don’t phone calls, remove need to be responsible for the children from the water kids’ safety. We all need to or pool area until you connect with other adults can supervise away from the children them. once in a while!
Learn The Ropes Both parents and children can feel more confident when everyone has taken an age-appropriate swim class. Children are less likely to panic when taught basics such as holding their breath under water. Adults should learn to swim as well but also benefit from taking CPR, water safety, and basic first aid courses. Additionally, teaching and enforcing certain basic behaviors which are both safe and courteous for water play is an excellent way to help give you peace of mind around the water. Be sure kids know to never enter the water unattended, to forego running, and to avoid pool drain covers and other entrapment risks. Try this: Register your family for swim lessons and safety classes through your local park departments, hospitals, the Red Cross, and YMCAs. Review facility and hosts’ rules when visiting a public or private pool or attraction. Help your family to safely enjoy the warm weeks of summer ahead! Visit these websites for more information on pool and water safety for families: www.redcross.org www.poolsafely.gov www.abcpoolsafety.org
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family health
CouchTalk by Beth Whitaker Beth@momtomomnwi.com
T o
working moms and stress Moms have a ton on their plate - just caring for their children successfully can be a difficult task. Many mothers work full time, which means they juggle pleasing their children, significant other and co-workers. The responsibility can be overwhelming and there may be guilt that not enough energy is focused in one area or another. With this in mind, it is important to talk about how we can help working moms feel less stress and enjoy life. 12
k
Focus on Self Care: lands ight feel like is m e w re e h w s ly There are time ean complete c o e th f o iddle ood is out in the m y. But motherh it n a m u h ll a m o ith disconnected fr renting load w a p e th re a h s sk, so m, find not an easy ta le, working mo g in s a re a u o y t. your partner. If to help you ou ily m fa r o s d n e frie out as other supportiv can get burned e W . e n lo a it rk. You cannot do rned out at wo u b t e g n a c e ew by mothers, just lik and emotionally lly a ic s y h p ry d d lt We are sucke g is very difficu in rg a h c re d n a nting re you work, and pare lone. Make su a g n ti n re a p re if to do if you a members help ily m fa r o r e n r part also allow you Woman, but r e p u S e b to els good take they offer. It fe k for help or to s a to y a k o is s. It know your limit an leave you c d a lo g n ti n re ng the pa ed. a break. Shari nd more satisfi a d te s u a h x e s feeling les
Prioritize Items You Value:
Self-care seem s so simple but it is often the fir thing that is give st n up when thing s g et busy. We all know that we n eed to take care of ourselves, bu here is another t reminder. If we are not taking ca of ourselves phys re ically and emotio n a lly , w e will not be the best mom s we can be. Wh e n a big chunk of your day is desi gnated for work , self-care becom a low priority. V es iew yourself as a p ri o rity and find a way to exercise and get the prop er amount of sle per night. We ne ep ed to make sure w e ca rve out time to do things tha t help us recharg e emotionally an physically, so fin d d what fills those needs for you.
:Share the Load
It is so important to understand wha t your priorities are for yo ur family. Working full-time and parenting can ge t complicated, so it is often necessary to cut ba ck in some areas. Identify the extra activities th at are absolutely ne cessary for your family and cut the rest. When making the commitment fo r an activity, make sure you consider all aspect s of that activity. Th at would include driving tim e to and from th e activity as well as the time at the activity. If yo u value quiet family time with a family dinner, then extra activities outside the home may not be a good fit for your family. Mak e choices that fit w ith what you value for your fa mily. 13
Maintain Perspective, not Perfectionism: Super e like to feel like w , ve o b a d e n nything As I mentio n take care of a ca e W s. e tim t Woman a ising children. ra d n a e tim full while working caught up and ry d n u la ll a g n vi a That includes h tic for you to do lis a re t o n is It . e ake a spotless hom ing does not m th ry ve e g in o d e if everything and ildren will surviv ch r u o Y r. e th o r if the you a good m n a busy night o o za iz p r e rd o go of you have to You have to let y. ss e m it b tle mom house is a lit and be the best l a e id r e th o m the perfect energy on your d n a e tim r u yo s you can be. Focu will figure itself st re e th d n a b jo r children and you entirely, you will p e e sl p u e iv g e out. Unless you your best and b o d st ju so g not do everythin ok with that!
Organization: Find a system that works for your family. Placing backpacks and school lunches in one spot every day after school can eliminate the stress of finding things in the morning. Prep outfits, lunches and any other items for the day the night before. Getting ou t the door will be much less hectic when thing s are laid out for you and your children. Als o, maintain a calendar and check it daily. Th ere is nothing worse than missing an appoint ment or event, so stay organized with one planner that includes work and school functio ns.
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Carve outTime for Enjoyment: We moms nee d to have a lit tle fun too! This is similar to self-care, but it could also include family fu n time. It might sound like a daunting task , but schedule d inners with friends when yo u can so that yo u have time to enjoy life outs ide of work and home. Just because you are a working mom does not mean you need to let go of othe r areas of your life. If you have a hobby, co n tinue to enjoy that hobby when time perm its.
It is possible to be a calm and organized working mother. Following these steps can help make every day life a little bit easier. Once you have a system that works, you can follow that and keep your family organized. Your children do notice when you are stressed because it impacts the quality of time you spend together. Stressing less will help your whole family feel more satisfied!
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eats By: Mindy Gear
breaking bread
Summer Sides Happy Summer! With warm weather here to stay it is time to head outside! With summer sports and yard work keeping most of us busy, nobody wants to spend all day in their kitchen! I will admit that I do still bake quite a bit during the summer months, but I try to do most of our cooking outside. This month I chose recipes that have very little prep. These sides would go great with a burger fresh from the grill and who could resist some homemade sweetened biscuits piled high with fresh berries. Maybe you have some time to visit the local berry patch to pick your own strawberries. During the summer, I like visiting farmer’s markets to buy great local produce and vegetables. Whatever you decide to make - keep it simple. If you are hosting a cookout, keep the prep simple. You want to be able to enjoy yourself!
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eats Mango Salsa
Last summer, my sister-in-law made this delicious mango salsa. It is a great combination of sweet mango with a bit of tang from the chili powder and jalapeno. It is a unique blend that is fruity and refreshing. We served with blue tortilla chips. You could also use plain tortilla chips or pita chips. 1 large mango, chopped ½ cup red onion, chopped 1 jalapeno, chopped ½ small jicama, chopped ½ orange bell pepper, chopped ½ red bell pepper, chopped Zest of 1 lime 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice 1 tsp chili powder (more to taste) ½ tsp salt (more to taste) Dash of cumin, pepper and cayenne Mix all ingredients together. Refrigerate until ready to serve (best served same day).
Calico Beans
Heating up a can of baked beans is easy but sometimes I want something a little different. My mom used to make this recipe for picnics. We were often camping with friends and spent the day fishing and exploring. It was really easy to toss this recipe together in the morning and let it cook all day in the crockpot. You can also heat in oven, but the crockpot is definitely less fuss. You can also experiment with different types of beans. Try using ground turkey and turkey bacon or skip the meat and make them vegetarian. Lots of different ways to make them your own! 1 ½ lbs ground beef ½ lb bacon, cut into small pieces 1 medium onion, chopped 2- 16oz cans baked beans (favorite flavor) 2- 16oz kidney beans (light or dark), drained and rinsed 1- can lima beans or 2 cups frozen lima beans ¾ cup ketchup ¼ cup BBQ sauce (favorite brand/flavor) 1 tsp salt
2 Tbsp vinegar (white or cider) ¾ cup brown sugar (light or dark) ½ cup white sugar 1 tsp yellow mustard Brown ground beef, bacon and onion; then drain. Whisk sauce ingredients together. Combine all ingredients in a crockpot and cook: Low 8 hours (or all day), High 3-4 hours. Also can be cooked in 9x13 pan in oven at 350 degrees for about 45 minutes.
Strawberry Shortcake
Who can resist strawberry shortcake? It’s the perfect summer treat! Whether you grow your own berries or pick them up at the market, it is delicious. My Grandma always used biscuits instead of angel food cake or pound cake. I have come to prefer it that way as well. This is just my favorite buttermilk biscuit recipe with additional sugar and vanilla extract (or almond extract when I want something different). Whip some fresh whipping cream with powdered sugar and additional teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract for topping. YUM! Biscuits: 3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour 2 Tbsp baking powder 1/3-1/2 white sugar (more or less to taste) 1 tsp salt 1 ½ sticks (3/4 cup) cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces 1 ¼ cups buttermilk 1 tsp vanilla or almond extract Sift dry ingredients into large bowl. Add butter pieces and use pastry cutter until crumb-like mixture. Pour buttermilk in slowly and mix until just combined and not crumbly. Drop by spoonful onto pan. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Cut strawberries (or mixture of different kinds of berries) and sprinkle with sugar (a few tablespoons or to taste). Slice biscuits in half or leave whole and add berries and fresh whipping cream.
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eats By: Emma Kester
Sweet Frog 1505 US 41 • Schererville IN 46375 (219) 440-7093
When I was asked to write about a fun summer spot to enjoy a sweet treat, I was excited to finally be able to do a review on Sweet Frog in Schererville. Sweet Frog is a Christian based business, with a belief in bringing happiness with a positive attitude to its customers. Many may not know this, but the word frog in their name is actually an acronym for F.R.O.G - “Fully Rely On God” – neat fact, huh?? Alright, now that I’ve given you a little background on Sweet Frog let’s get to business! I couldn’t wait to walk in the doors to this place, and from the moment we walked through the front door everyone was so friendly and helpful. It was whimsically decorated in happy vibrant colors of green and pink – FUN! Now, this is not your ordinary ice cream shop – it’s actually frozen yogurt! There are 16 flavors to choose from, and I was very impressed with the fact that they offered sugar-free flavors. NO SUGAR yet it tastes like it does...SOLD! Here’s how it works:
-You choose the cup size of the yogurt you’re going to eat. Then you head over to the wall and select your flavor (if you are curious about how it tastes, you can sample). - After selecting your flavor you head over to the toppings bar and create your very own masterpiece. The topping bar offers many choices such as fresh fruit, sprinkles, candy corn, chocolate chips, nuts, hot fudge, caramel, nutella, strawberry sauce, and peanut butter – to name a few! - When you’re done, you put your creation on a scale and checkout – WEIGH AND PAY! Then you sit back and enjoy your creation! It’s easy, fun and oh so delectable! This is fun for the whole family and it’s truly a great
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family friendly experience. I recommend a trip to Sweet Frog on a hot summer night or any time of day really! And in case you needed yet another reason to come, 10 percent of Tuesday sales benefit approved local organizations including veterans groups, charities, schools and cancer victims.
The Hot Dog Guy
Cart located on the SE corner of the square in downtown Crown Point (219) 677-6321
You know its spring when the Hot Dog Guy has arrived – and by the time summer rolls around you’ve had at least a hot dog or two – or 10! Mike Adams is an outdoor vendor who owns and operates his cart in the downtown area of Crown Point. People from all over the region head out to experience a hot dog created by THE Hot Dog Guy – I know my family does! I really enjoy visiting the hot dog stand – especially on a hot summer night with the family when I certainly don’t want to be in the kitchen cooking! We grab our picnic blanket, head to the square and grab some dogs. In the evening, there is always something going on downtown, and if not it’s a nice area to just walk around take in the history of Crown Point – all while enjoying time with the family. The Hot Dog Guy serves all beef hot dogs and polish sausagescomplete with all the trimmings. So if you’re craving a cheese dog, he’s got it! Love a classic Chicago Dog – he’s got that too. Pretty much any combination you can think of he can give you – within reason of course! And the best part about this cart – if you can’t make it to Crown Point to try one, you can just rent him. That’s right, the Hot Dog Guy can cater your backyard party and his cart comes complete with chips, drinks, and even some lollipops for your kiddos. Want to head to the Hot Dog Guy on our lunch break? No problem, I find myself visiting on during lunch breaks with friends. He even offers drive-thru service - YES, your eyes aren’t deceiving you! All you have to do is text him your order and drive on by – SCORE!!!
na ed efit es,
he 10! in on –I
Brad’s Designs & Jewelry Brad Belush Owner & Designer
Custom Designs Diamonds & Colored Stones www.bradsdesignsandjewelry.com
brad@bradsdesignsandjewelry.com
(219) 663-5801 146 N. Main St. • Crown Point, IN 46307
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esog, tty hin ke Hot ete
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feature
Battling Summer Boredom It’s that time of the month, when we ask for your opinion on a specific topic. Since school is out, and many fellow moms are already experiencing this with their kids, we figured the following would be good to ask: “How do you keep every day of summer break interesting for the kids?” “What do you do with your children (or let them do) when they start saying they are BORED and have NOTHING to do?” Here’s what our Facebook fans had to say: Laura O., “I made sure to sign my children up for a lot of activities this summer. Between softball, t-ball, VBS, swim lessons, basketball camp, and library classes, I don’ think they will have time to be bored!” Brandy B., “I keep a folder with county/city/neighborhood/ local maps that list parks, pools, splash pads, and other fun activities. I also keep the hours for our favorite bouncy places and any zoos/museums/whatever we have memberships to. I also try and buy Groupons for various activities. An hour at a new-to-us park totally resets our day! Plus, with all that info handy, I am never going crazy thinking up ideas last minute!!” Kacey A., “I had a friend make a poster with her kids. They created a family summer bucket list of everything they wanted to do this summer – it was super cute! They then check things off as they do them. They were really cute ideas too. Activities range from the splash pad to the drive-in. When I saw the idea I loved it.” Tiffany P., “I think it’s important to not set a precedent that they will be entertained at all times. For moms who can stay home, it can be nice to offer a variety of activites throughout the weeks that the children can chose from, some structured/ directed times, and some alone time. I truly believe that with some books and access to the outdoors, BORED should be a forbidden word!
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Patti S., “We have a jar filled with popsicle sticks and each one has something written on them of fun things to do. Some of the ones we enjoy are the Taltree Arboretum, Sunset Hill, indoor forts, picnics, and sidewalk chalk. Sunsest Hill has really great day camps.” Jillian B., “I have a 2 and 5 year old and they love anything with water. I take them to the Hobart pool, make a water slide at home and run the sprinkler. We also go to the park and ride bikes. The Hobart library does a lot of activities, plus the Portage IMAX has $1 summer movies for the kids Monday through Friday at 10am. That’s just a few things the kids and I get out and do that doesn’t break the wallet.” Pashmina R., “I agree about not sending the message that kids need to be entertained by someone all the time. We do a maximum of three weeks of camps per summer. Otherwise, lots of outdoor play – with and without water. We also do library, play dates, and just plain old walks. Also, in our house TV is VERY restricted during the school year so I loosen up on that quite a bit and we often watch movies or shoes together. I also expect them to do a certain amount of academic work - just so their brains don’t check out completely! This summer my daughter and I are keeping a book journal together. We are each reading different books, but trade the journal back and forth with letters to each other discussing our respective books and asking specific questions about each other’s book.”
1 GAME of BOWLING SHOES HOT DOG, CHIPS & POP 135 N Broad Street, Griffith 219.924.3181 www.setemuplanes.com
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editorial by: Krystal Taylor
things i will never understand As a parent, I have learned a TON - but I have also learned there are a good majority of things my children do, or say, that I will just NEVER understand. To go along with this long list of things I will never figure out, there is also a list of simple solutions - solutions I do not think my kids will ever figure out. A majority of these things they do that I’ll never understand drive me absolutely insane! Sometimes, I wonder if they get together for a morning huddle to see how much havoc they can wreak before I get upset or just BURST! I also imagine there are plenty of things I do, or say, that my kids probably wonder the same thing. For example, when I am yelling at them, I always say, “I have already said it 72 times! Why can’t you just listen?” I can’t tell you why, but for some reason it is always the number 72. Not 5, not 10, but 72. That is what I like to call, my “go to” response. Oh, that good old “go to” response. Every mother has one, actually you probably have several. It’s usually the moment we use one of these “go to” responses that we will stop and think, “Oh my goodness, I sound just like my Mother!” Then we get sidetracked, well at least I do. I began thinking about all of this one day after serving my kids lunch. My daughter, Brooklyn, specifically said she wanted French fries. So, eight potatoes and 45 minutes later she sits down and says, “Ewww! I do not like French fries!” I respond with my “go to” answer about how there are starving children all around the world who would be happy to eat whatever food I make- and that they should not be so picky! I will never understand why children will ask for something and ten minutes later they no longer like it. Another thing I can’t understand is how it is so easy for a child to make such a huge mess in such a short amount of time. I was in the shower one day, which for the record no longer happens on a daily basis, and my youngest son, Ethan, decided he wanted
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to make me scrambled eggs. Yes, a sweet gesture, but he made them in the toilet and cracked eggs all over the house. As if this were already not a big enough mess, my daughter decided to try and clean up his mess. She used an entire roll of toilet paper to help clean up the scrambled egg catastrophe. I am not sure how they were able to make this big of a mess in such a short period of time, because my showers are 4 minutes max, but it took me almost an hour to clean it up. Every time I get into the shower now, I have to put a lock on my refrigerator. My first one was a makeshift lock, I have since upgraded to something a little fancier. The one thing about parenting that I will never figure out - why after the longest days or weeks, even the ones where my children drive me the most insane, when I finally get a chance alone, for a quiet hot dinner with my husband, we spend the entire time talking about the kids. From the second I leave them, I begin to miss them. The same thing happens at bedtime. I just don’t get it! I guess we can chalk that one up to loving them.
y n r e o t
The past few months have been out of control busy!! Between running around with my kids, volunteer commitments, fundraising events, and family drama – I’ve quickly turned into a rushed crazy person. So that is why for this month’s Get Out & Get Fit article I took a deep breath, focused on centering myself, and booked a yoga class. Now, I will be the first to admit that I do not consider myself a yogi in any way. I am a Pilates instructor - and even though most people think that yoga and Pilates are one in the same, they are couldn’t be more wrong! You see, yoga involves a total state of mind and body. It is hard to make it through a yoga class unless you are “mentally all in”. The most difficult aspect of yoga is quieting your mind and allowing your body to relax and stretch. When a yoga instructor is leading you through the meditation - also known as shavasina - you are NOT supposed to be thinking about your grocery list and when your next turn for carpool is. For the past couple of years, I’ve heard a lot of buzz about a yoga studio in downtown Valparaiso called Asana. Dana Darr, the owner of Asana has been studying and practicing the Iyengar style of yoga for 15 years. Her knowledge of the practice and attention to form is quite impressive, and her reputation for teaching a great yoga class was spot on! Here are the details….. Iyengar Yoga Explained: A form of Hatha yoga, Iyengar is one of the oldest forms of yoga. A number of different props are used in Iyengar since emphasis is given to alignment and precision in every posture. Iyengar teaches how all eight aspects of Ashtanga yoga are integrated and focuses on the aspect of “sequencing” - the practice of intentionally grouping and linking
by: Brooke Recktenwall
specific asanas together. Iyengar uses props that help with precision, put less stress on your muscles and are helpful if you are recovering from an injury. Iyengar yoga is great for all levels - from advanced yogis who want to work on alignment or beginners who are getting used to the basic form of all postures. Iyengar Yoga Experience: The front door to Asana opens and you look up a dimly lit staircase that makes you feel calm the minute you take your first step up to the studio. The studio where no shoes are allowed is white and bright. Dana Darr introduces herself, makes you feel welcome immediately, and remembers your name among a sea of 20 plus people. We moved through a series of yoga poses to warm up and then spent most of the class working on standing poses with near perfect form - thanks to Dana. After running a half marathon a prior to taking this class, my hips were a little resistant to the poses - next time I will warn my hips to “brace themselves” for when Dana makes her rounds! She swiveled my hips in the right direction and wow did I really feel a lovely, deep stretch! I found myself near bliss during the meditation (or shavasina) at the end of class, which very rarely happens to me. Namaste! Where to find Iyengar Yoga: Asana Yoga Studio in Valparaiso, located at 161 W. Lincolnway. You probably have walked by it and never noticed that it occupies the space above Bistro 157 near the courthouse. Dana Darr is the owner and teaches Iyengar Yoga - along with a handful of other instructors. There are several class offerings per day. Check out their website for schedule and more information, www.asanacenter.com. When life is crazy and you are looking for a mommy moment try a yoga class - you won’t be disappointed!
Get Out Get Fit
e s o r e t t e e e
BREATHE IN BREATHE OUT
family health
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feature by: stephanie edwards
field station frenzy follow-up A cold front and a little rain didn’t stop runners from coming out to the Annual Field Station 5k Frenzy. The race, which takes places every year at the Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve in Chesterton, saw runners of all ages. That’s because this event includes a chip-timed 5K run, a 5K non-competitive walk, a 1-mile race for those 6 years of age and up, and a tot trot for 3 to 6 year olds. This race is held annually to benefit The Field Station Cooperative Preschool, a nature-focused learning center nestled in the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in Porter, Indiana. This nature based preschool is committed to teaching young children about the natural world around them. Mom to Mom, NWI was thrilled to be a sponsor for this fun and healthy family event for a second year. Our own Beth Whitaker took one for the team and ran this race after completing the Sun Burst halfmarathon in South Bend the day before – hats off to you Beth!! We would like to congratulate all those who successfully completed this race, and recognize some for their accomplishments:
Female Open Winner – Chrys Davis Male Open Winner – John Borman Female Masters Winner – Deana Lecy Male Masters Winner – Ronald Knestrict
Female 1 to 8
1st place – Reilly Boyer, 8 2nd place – Cheyanne Stock, 8 3rd place – Libby Ehrhardt, 7
Male 1 to 8
1st place – Miller Knestrict, 7 2nd place – Gabriel Matthes, 8 3rd place – Reece Knestrict, 8
Female 9 to 10
1st place – Nicole Brandy, 10 2nd place – Skyler Cummins, 10 3rd place – Riley Knestrict, 10
Male 9 to 10
1st place - Tyler Kimberlin, 9 2nd place – Joshua Dennington, 10 3rd place – Caden Walsworth, 10
Female 11 to 12
1st place – Callie Metzger, 12 2nd place – Jordyn Boyer, 12 3rd place – Allie Smith, 11
Male 11 to 12
1st place – Isaac Beatty, 12 2nd place- Nathan O’Connor, 12 3rd place – Bryan Thomas, 12
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fun & games by: Amber Neace
Keeping Our Kids Busy Congratulations, you survived the first few weeks of summer vacation- now what? Entertaining our kids seems to get harder as technology improves, so I decided that I needed to come up with some inexpensive ways to cure the “Summer Boredom Blues” that didn’t involve my kids sitting on the couch. Here are a few ideas that will cost little or no money – all while keeping your kids from complaining about having nothing to do.
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Map My Walk...Kids Edition
Most moms and dads are familiar with the MapMyWalk app for their smart phone - but what if you took that same idea and applied it to (mostly) technology free entertainment? Print out a map and let you kids highlight a route to go on their walk. Have them follow it and see where you end up. For older kids, write down directions to a friend’s house where you can have a surprise waiting or directions to the park. Have them follow the step-by-step instructions to get there, without telling them where you are going. For little boys and girls, this is a good way to help them learn the difference between left and right. Have them skip or march part of the way and make it fun. Write down a checklist of things to find on their walk. Have them look for something green, find an animal, a rock or anything else that you can think of that you will see along the way.
Backyard Overnight Adventure
Pitch a tent and break out the smore’s! What better way to spend a summer night then to camp out in your own backyard. Have a bonfire and tell spooky stories, roast hot dogs on the fire and look at the stars. Before your night in the great outdoors, hit up the dollar store and stock up on glow necklaces which can be used to play a glow in the dark ring toss game.
Summertime Snow and Patio Paint
Almost every kid, no matter what age, loves nothing more than to make a mess. Here are some ways you can help. Patio paint is probably one of the easiest DIY projects I have ever done. All you have to do is mix all-purpose flour with water until it is about the texture of finger paint. I poured it into small plastic containers, put in a few drops of food coloring and shook them until they were completely mixed. I gave them to my boys and let them go crazy on the driveway and patio. They were entertained until every last bit of concrete was covered with their paint. When it dries it looks just like chalk and can be washed away with a garden hose. **Please note: patio paint my stain if left on too long! For the summertime snow, simply mix a box of baking soda with white conditioner in a plastic container. It will end up like the consistency of wet sand and be cold like snow. Give the kids some small cups and have them build snow castles. Hide animal figures in the “snow” to be rescued. This is especially helpful with little kids who love to mess with different textures. The possibilities are endless of things you can do without traveling far from home. Make your own carnival games in the yard, hit the bike or hiking trails, attack your kids with water balloons, or have a manicure/pedicure party with the littlest of ladies in your life. As we count down the days until school starts again, we have a chance to make some amazing memories with our kids. Make every day count!
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community calendar Upcoming Races in Northwest Indiana: *Hebron Fireworks 5K
July 4th with a start time of 8:00am -This 5K Run and Walk also features a Sparkler Spirnt – a non-competitive run for kids 10 and under.
*33rd Annual Brickyard 5 Mile & 5K Run
July 17th with a start time of 6:30pm - This 5K Run and 1 mile non-competitive walk in Highland supports CRS Youth and Road Runners Club of America Programs. The race will feature food, refreshments, and a party in the park afterwards.
*Buckley 5 Miler
July 4th with a start time of 7:30am -The Brickyard 5 Mile Run is a “Gold Cup Series” event for ages 15 and up. The Brickyard 5K race will be used for Gold Cup participants 14 and under. Awards will be presented for both events. The races will start from the same starting line at the Hobart High School “Brickyard”.
July 20th with a start time of 7:30am -This 5 mile run and 2 mile walk takes place at the Buckley Homestead in Lowell. The 5 mil run features an out and back loop through the pioneer farm. Portions of the course are cross country.
*Run for Riley 5K
*Kathleen Pucalik Memorial 5K Run
July 4th with a start time of 9:00am -This race is put on by the Kiwanis Club of LaPorte and takes place before the annual 4th of July Parade. The course runs down the parade route (Highway 2, J Street, Lincolnway) through downtown LaPorte.
July 20th with a start time of 8:00am -This 5K takes place at Wolf Lake Memorial Park in Hammond. A portion of the proceeds go to benefit the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana. Early registration is $20; Race day registration is $25.
*Nativity Festival 5K Run
*St. John Parish Fest Family Fun Run + 5K
July 7th with a stat time of 6:30pm -The Nativity of Our Savior Church in Portage is hosting a Kids Mile race and 5K. Race fee for kids race is $10; $20 for 5K run.
*The EXMI One Mile Challenge
July 10th with a start time of 6:00pm -EXMI presents the 1st Annual Extra Mile 1 mile challenge. Run a flat, loop mile course in a competitive WAVE start race against your age group of peers. All competitive race entries must be able to complete a mile in 15 minutes or less.
*Running Wild for the Zoo 5K
July 13th with a start time 9:00am -This 5K Run and Walk takes place in Michigan City. The fee for this race is $17 plus a $2.50 Sign-up fee. There will be a beer garden for all participants 21 years of age or older.
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*Friendship Run 5K
July 28th with a start time of 9:00am -This race is for kid’s 12 ad under (must be accompanied by a registered adult, and for those 13 years of age or older. The race takes place at St. John the Evangelist Festival Grounds.
*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.
community calendar *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.
*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 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.
*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. Entry fee is $25if received by August 2nd with a shirt; $20 without a shirt. 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.
Family & Kid Events: *Pierogi Fest
July 26th, 27th, and 28th starting at 11:00am all three days -The Pierogi Fest in Whiting always runs the last full weekend in July and this year is no different! You’ll find this popular even filled with things like the Polka Dance Off – hosted by their very own Polkahontas and judge by impartial judges Mr. Pierogi and Ms. Paczk, tons of musical performances, and of course PIEROGI’S!!! The Pierogi Parade will take place Friday June 26th at 7:00pm. For more information, go to http:// pierogifest.net.
*Central Park Plaza Market
Tuesdays and Saturdays in July 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.
Mom and Adult Events: *4th Annual Mudathlon
July 20th at Graeber Family Farms in Valparaiso -If you like to get down and dirty, then you won’t want to miss the 4th Annual Mudathlon. The one day event offers an adventurous off-road run that is uniquely challenging and focused on fun from start to finish. Mudathletes will navigate through a three-mile course with over 40 obstacles, which include a Cargo Net Climb, 100 foot mud pit, a spider web obstacle, and an obstacle where you are horizontal with the wall. It’s going to be a mucking good time – that’s their slogan! Pre-registering for the event is $85 and same day registration is $100. This fee gets you EVERYTHING – that means no paying for parking and you get free entrance to the after party where you will enjoy a free brat, refreshing Miller Lite, a finisher’s medal which doubles as a bottle opener, and giveaways like a car decal and slap on beer can koozie. For more information, go to www.mudathlon.com. 29
community calendar *Wine & Canvas
July 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th 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 “Poppy Garden”
July 17th or 19th 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. 30
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 purchased, two free kid’s meals are given. That means a family with four children can eat for the price of just two adult entrees. The deal is limited to children 10 and under and is available at the Merrillville, Hebron, Portage and Michigan City location. Fazoli’s – On Tuesdays, kids 12 and under eat for $.99 from 5pm to 8pm at the Valparaiso location. Golden Corral – All day, every day, kids 3 and under eat FREE from the buffet with the purchase of an 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 olds are $5.99. A drink is included in the price.
Goodfellas Bar and Grill, Cedar Lake
– Kids get a free meal when an adult entrée is purchased. The daily special is not included in this deal. Quaker Steak and Lube – On Wednesday’s, the Portage location offers a $3.99 kids meal, all day long. This includes a drink. Pops Italian Beef, Dyer – On Tuesday’s, kids get a $.99 kids meal with the purchase of a value meal. Reuben’s Mexican Grill – Sunday is Family Day! Kids 10 and under eat free with the purchase of an adult entrée. Dine in only. Shenanigan’s Pub and Eatery – Kids eat free on Wednesday’s and Sundays with the purchase of an adult entrée. Shenanigan’s is located on Route 20 in Portage. Texas Roadhouse – On Monday nights, the Dyer location has $.99 kids meals, with the purchase of an adult entrée. There is a limit of 2 kids meals per family. Andy Armadillo, the mascot, can also be found on these nights, walking around the restaurant and playing with the kids! ***Do you have an event you want to share with us? Just send an email to Stephanie@momtomomnwi. com. The deadline for your entry is due by the 15th. benefit a local charity in the community.
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