Mom to Mom September 2013 by JWM Marketing & Web Design

Field Station Golf Outing

helicopter parenting 16

making multiple meals 18 date night diva 22

get out & get fit Insanity 24

fun & games

coloring 26 battling boredom 28

puzzles 38community calendar 30

#mommyproblems 35 safety first 36

contents

letter from the editor 4 back to school organization 6 brain aneurysm awareness 8 kids you should know 10 couch talk

Thanks to Valparaiso Community School Corporation for providing us a location for our photo shoot.

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.

Stephanie loves September

I may have told you this before, but September is my favorite month of the year. The heat and humidity gets replaced with a cool breeze, the ugly brown leaves start to change color, and the kids go back to school! Ahhh, back to school – what a mixed bag of emotions those three words bring!! For me, there’s sadness that summer vacation is over. That means no more lunches at the park, swimming with friends or sleeping in. Then there’s anxiety that settles in. The thought of shopping for new clothes, school supplies, and getting everyone out the door on-time is a lot to handle! Once I get over the anxiety (kind of), the nerves kick in. I start to wonder how my daughter will do at a new school - will she make new friends, will she like her teacher, will she miss me? But then I stop and realize something –my daughter is a great kid, she’s going to be fine! And that’s when the best emotion of all kicks in – HAPPINESS!! There’s a happiness you can’t hide when school starts, I know I can’t. It makes me smile when I see my daughter run out of the car into school – excited for what the new day will bring. Then more happiness when I pick her up and she eagerly tells me about her day. And it’s not just her happiness that makes me smile, it’s my own. I thrive on routine, and the fact that I am on a regular schedule when school is in session gives me the biggest smile on my face. Checking things off my to-do list is the best feeling!! And when I get to sneak in extra snuggle time with my newborn because all is quite in the house – nothing beats that! So because back to school and September is such a big deal for me, I like to make it a big deal for the magazine. How?? By making our September issue a special Back to School edition. Inside the pages of this magazine you’ll find some great DIY crafts to help keep all those school papers organized, tips on teaching your kids about bus safety and stranger danger, and ways to make the most out of your trip to the grocery store (with recipes by Mindy!) We also address the issue of “helicopter parenting” with Beth Whitaker. She gives us insight on what it is, the warning signs, and how to prevent it. But perhaps what I’m most excited about is the pages you’ll find of smiling students. We asked our Facebook fans to submit photos of their child’s first day of school. We received so many; we decided to spread it over several pages – who doesn’t love to see pictures of happy kids?? And let’s not forget our monthly Get Out and Get Fit piece by Brooke Recktenwall, dining recommendations by our Date Night Diva Emma Kester, and the winners of our coloring contest. Hope you enjoy this issue as much as I did putting it together. Have a safe and happy school year! Take Care,

Stephanie

Mirror Image Dance Academy Now Registering for Fall Classes and Academic Preschool

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www.mirrorimagedance.net Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Modern, Musical Theater, Praise, and Pointe Academic/Dance Preschool Dance for ages 18 months to 18 years Performing and Competing Teams Child friendly music, moves, and costumes!

feature by:amber neace

back to school organization It’s back to hectic mornings, after school activities and fitting in all of that homework before bed time. Getting everyone back into a routine isn’t always easy - keeping track of all the different schedules is even harder. So, let’s vow to do something about that. I say – let’s get organized! Now don’t get me wrong, getting organized won’t make it all perfect but it can make it easier. Most people think getting organized means spending a lot of money – that’s not the case! There are a ton of things you can make yourself out of items you have around the house, and it’s easy to get the whole family involved.

feature The first thing you need to do is find a place to have your “Command Center”. When trying to decide where to put this, think about a central location for your family - mine is on the side of the fridge. At this “Command Center” I have a calendar where I write all doctor appointments, practice schedules, after school activities and any other commitments we may have. I also have a spot for the school lunch menu, a mailbox for all of my son’s school papers that I need to keep track of or sign and return, a cup attached with magnets to hold pens and pencils, a list of emergency phone numbers, and what I like to call the “Mom I Need It” list.

This simple project can make the transition into the school year much easier, especially for those parents who see each other in passing on their way to and from work and school each day. You can search online for free calendar printables and add additional mailboxes for each child if you have the room. Make it your own based on the needs of your family and don’t forget to have a great school year!!

Let’s start with the mailbox. This is something that you can either buy at the office supply section of your favorite store or make it yourself. I chose to make mine so I can make it more personal. All you need is an empty cereal box, tape, hot glue, scrap booking paper, magnets or ribbon and key rings. Tape the top of the box shut and cut off one if the sides. This is where you will put the school papers. Cover the box with scrap booking paper using tape and hot glue then hot glue magnets on the back. If you are not putting it on a metal surface you can hot glue ribbon or key rings on the back and hang it on the wall using hooks. You can do the same thing with the cup for the pens by using an empty soup can. I recommend folding the scrap booking paper over the top of the can and gluing it to the inside to cover the sharp edge. If you child eats the occasional hot lunch at school, I recommend going through the menu as soon as it comes home each month. Have your child choose which days they will want to have hot lunch and mark it down – this way there are no questions each morning! This also helps with figuring out how much food you need to buy for each week. 7

family health By: Nichole Odijk DeMario

Brain Aneurysm Awareness

Nearly three years ago, Jennifer Fedak had surgery to clip an aneurysm she had in her brain. She made a vow to herself and her surgeon that if she lived, she would do her best to support brain aneurysm awareness and research. She stayed true to her word, and when she was well started the Blu Bird Foundation. “I am so grateful for my life; this is the very least I can do,” Fedak, 36 of Crown Point, and mother of one said. Fedak was not only inspired by her condition, but her young daughter and the many losses she had had early on in life. She had several family members pass away from traumatic events, including her younger sister from a brain tumor when she was seven-years-old and Fedak was a teenager. “I want my daughter to know that even in the worst of times you can do something positive. I want to give her a positive role model,” Fedak said. “I can either sit here and be a victim, or I can stand up and do something. I was tired of feeling helpless.” September is Brain Aneurysm Awareness Month. The Brain Aneurysm Awareness Foundation reports an estimated six million people in the United States have an unruptured brain aneurysm- or 1 in 50 people. Approximately 30,000 suffer a brain aneurysm rupture each year. A ruptured aneurysm is fatal in about 40 percent of cases. Of the 60 percent that survive, 8

about 66 percent are left with some permanent neurological deficit. They are most prevalent in people ages 35 to 60. According to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation an unruptured brain aneurysm is typically asymptomatic. Larger unruptured aneurysms can press on the brain or nerves causing neurological symptoms. The foundation recommends anyone experiencing any of the following symptoms, regardless of age, should immediately seek medical attention. Those symptoms include: localized headache, dilated pupils, blurred or double vision, pain above and behind the eye, weakness and numbness and/or difficulty speaking. A ruptured brain aneurysm may cause sudden symptoms such as sudden severe headache, the worst headache of your life; loss of consciousness; nausea or vomiting; stiff neck; sudden blurred or double vision; sudden pain above or behind the eye or difficulty seeing; sudden change in mental status or awareness; sudden trouble walking or dizziness; sudden weakness and numbness; sensitivity to light; seizure and/or drooping eyelid. Again, immediate medical attention is absolutely necessary. Fedak’s diagnosis derived from gut instinct rather than particular symptoms and she considers herself immensely lucky. For years she had seen doctor after doctor, certain that

n m

something wasn’t right. She found general practitioner Dr. Mary Tilak of Highland, who eventually ordered an MRA brain scan – this scan detected an aneurysm behind her eye. That then led her to neurologist Dr. Bernard Bendok of Northwestern Memorial Hospital. And while Fedak is a survivor, she explained how the foundation would not be possible without the assistance of Blu Bird Foundation’s board which includes Jennifer Connelly, Jenn Currey, Caryn Duke and Kim Goodwin. “It definitely takes a village,” shes said. “I had a vision and they’ve allowed me to be able to do this. I couldn’t have done this without their help and the help of everyone in the community.” Through their various fundraisers, they have raised nearly $20,000.

Donations are dispersed to Northwestern Memorial Foundation to fund Dr. Bendok’s research as well as the Brain Aneurysm Foundation. Their next event is their Second Annual Golf Outing and Dinner Dance on September 7 at White Hawk Country Club in Crown Point. Tickets are $120 per person for 18 holes of golf, lunch, unlimited drinks on the course, dinner, dancing, entertainment and a three hour open bar in the evening. Dinner-Dance tickets are available for $50 per person if not interested in golf. A silent auction will also be held. To learn more on how to register for this event, see their future events, or learn more about the non-profit organization, visit blubirdfoundation.org.

feature profile

Whether we think sending our kids back-to-school is the “happiest time of the year”, or a time that’s just “so hard to say goodbye”, the one thing we can all agree on as parents is how much we love seeing our kids smile. When our kids walk out of the door with their new outfits, new haircuts, and brand new backpacks, we can’t help but snap those pictures and show them off. So since we are a family magazine, and this is our back-to-school issue, it seems only fair that we show off the beautiful faces of the kids our fans shared with us.

Enjoy!!

Aylssa 1st Grade & Grace 2nd Grade

Chloe & Clayton - 2nd Grade ,. Skylar - 1st Grade Jake & Julian- Kindergarten

Ty - 2nd Grade

Carianne- 5th Grade

Carson 1st Grade

Cassie - Kindergarten

Clayton - Kindergarten

Cyia- Kindergarten

Delaney - 1st Grade

Ember - 2nd Grade

Gabriel - 2nd Grade

Garrett - 2nd Grade

Ian - 9th Grade

Jake 1st Grade

Gavin - Pre-K

Jacob - Kindergarten Alexis - 3rd Grade

Jake - 6th Grade

Maddie - Kindergarten Katie - 3rd Grade

Kyleigh - Kindergarten

Laney - Kindergarten Abby - 3rd Grade

Liam - 2nd Grade Olivia - 4th Grade

Lizzie - Kindergarten

Lu - Kindergarten

Madelin - 4th Grade

Gabby & Izzy - 4th Grade Matthew- Kindergarten

Makenzie - 1st Grade

Marley- Kindergarten

Michael - 2nd Grade

Nick - 3rd Grade

Niko - 5th Grade Jax - 4th Grade Giavanna - 2nd Grade

Mila - Kindergarten Oliver - 2nd Grade

Olivia & Anna - 3rd Grade Addison - 1st Grade

Payton - 1st Grade

Payton - Preschool

Reese - 2nd Grade

Rileigh - 10th Grade

Riley - 1st Grade

Samantha - 1st Grade

Tyler - 4th Grade Alexa - 1st Grade

Aidyn - 6th Grade

Amari - Pre-K

Ariana - 1st Grade

Ashden - 11th Grade

Benjamin - 2nd Grade

Brennan - 1st Grade

Callia - 2nd Grade

Riley - Kindergarten

Travis - 2nd Grade

Timothy - 4th Grade Emily - Pre K

Vanessa - Preschool

Wyatt - 3rd Grade

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Couch Talk

family health

by Beth Whitaker Beth@momtomomnwi.com

Many of us have heard the term â&#x20AC;&#x153;helicopter parentsâ&#x20AC;?, but hope that term does not apply to us individually. The term defines moms (and dads) who are control-freaks; hovering over their children for fear they may fall or get hurt. Some helicopter parents hover for fear of injury, others hover in a completely different way. This other type of helicopter parent becomes overly involved in school â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hard pressed to make sure their child does well in everything they do. These types of parents are well-intended, but actually do more harm than good. They are called hyper-involved, and remain this way in to the college years, or beyond. A study from the University of Washington indicated that parents who micromanage or hover over their children could cause an increased risk in depression and anxiety for their children.

It’s great to be a concerned parent, but just take note that concern can go a step further to full-fledged helicopter without notice.

Warning signs that you are a helicopter parent: You do your child’s homework for them (just so you know it’s done correctly). You know your child’s teacher/coaches’ phone number and email by heart. When your child experiences a conflict, you jump in to solve it immediately. You check your child’s breathing at night (and your child is a teenager). When your child gets a bad grade on a test or in a class, you blame the teacher.

Don’t always run to your child’s rescue - It is our task as parents to

help our children become confident and independent individuals. If we run to our children’s rescue, they never learn to negotiate problems on their own. Don’t try to solve your child’s problems for them. Allow your child to build confidence by handling situations on his/her own. If they experience difficulties with homework or bullying, teach them the ways to solve the conflict on their own, this will benefit them for years to come.

Being overprotective comes with risks – As parents we want to keep our kids

safe, but overprotecting our children comes with risks. When we are overprotective, we limit their ability to learn from their mistakes. Your child will then start to view the world as scary because they sense the anxiety of the hovering parent. They also doubt their ability to

handle difficult situations because they rely on their parents for frequent intervention. Making sure life is easy for your child will not prepare them for hardships later in life.

Do not do too much for your child - Trying to fight all of the battles for your kids will end in a disaster. At one point in your child’s life, they will need to cope without your help. They also need to learn to face issues at school and on the playground independently, so trust that you have provided them with adequate guidance to handle these situations. Instead of calling the teacher and complaining that your child got a bad grade on a test, go through the test and talk to your child about ways to improve study skills or test taking skills. Point out where your child did well and teach them tools to help strengthen areas that may be a struggle.

Let go at school – School seems to be the

main arena where the helicopter parent manifests. Don’t ask the teacher what you can do to improve, instead ask what the child can change or start doing for themselves to make the change. Your child needs to learn to advocate for him/herself, asking the teacher for help and not relying on mom to email the teacher. Not allowing your child to learn these basic skills will prevent them from becoming empowered to take care of things on their own. Your child will make mistakes, so use those as strength building experiences. Helicopter parents typically intervene in the school setting. So, with school in session, try to keep your space and let your child make mistakes and achieve on their own. We need to find the balance on that fine line of concerned versus helicopter parent. Don’t go so far as to become a “free-range” parent. Free range to run and learn from their own mistakes could end in disaster. Neither of these approaches to parenting are ideal, so we need to work toward helpful guidance and support. Balance is best!

eats

By: Mindy Gear

Making Multiple Meals

It’s hard to believe school is back in session – wow summer went by fast!!!! And with another school year upon us, the juggling act begins – homework, sports, after school activities. As parents we will be shelling out lots of time and money, so when it comes to dinner we want something easy and inexpensive. But fast and cheap doesn’t have to mean throwing something together or fast food. Pre-planning meals saves you time and money, so I went ahead and spent the last few days of summer pre-planning for you!! Costco sells 2 whole chickens for $11 or the Organic 2-pack is about $24 - they also have family packs of bone-in or boneless cuts.

If you stock up when the poultry is on sale, you can re-package and freeze raw or cook and freeze for faster meals.

If you are cooking a whole chicken, add carrots, celery and garlic to make broth while adding extra flavor to your cooked chicken (the broth can be frozen too). Marinade and grill chicken to freeze for later use. Using a marinade prior to grilling will help the chicken keep its moisture during the freezing process. Well-packaged raw chicken can be frozen for up to one year (packaging is important to avoid freezer burn). Cooked chicken should be used within 2 months since it does not contain as much moisture as raw poultry. If freezing cooked chicken, be sure to package in approximately 2 cup portions (this is the general amount recipes call for). Slice, dice or shred the cooked chicken prior to freezing to make it easier to use. The chicken is great for salads, wraps, sandwiches, casseroles, soups, quesadillas, enchiladas, tacos - the list is endless! Try one of these great recipes…

Sour Cream Sauce:

eats

2 Tbsp butter 2 Tbsp flour 1 ½ cups chicken broth 1 cup sour cream (try substituting plain greek yogurt) 1 ½ cups Monterey jack cheese, shredded.

White Chicken Enchiladas

These are an amazing enchilada with a sour cream/ cheese sauce that bakes up nicely. It does take a few extra minutes of prep, but it is well worth the effort!

Filling:

1 Tbsp canola oil 1 onion chopped 2-3 peppers (jalepeno, cubanelle, banana…your choice) seeded and chopped 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken ½ cup chicken broth ½ cup heavy cream ½ tsp garlic ½ tsp paprika ½ tsp cayenne pepper, optional ½ tsp cumin, optional Salt/pepper to taste 1 cup Monterey jack cheese, shredded (more to preference) -Heat approximately 12 corn tortillas (can substitute flour). I put a few tablespoons canola oil into heavy skillet and cook tortillas about 20 seconds per side. You can also microwave to soften them. (Either method will prevent them from breaking as you roll into pan.) Allow to cool while heating filling. -Heat oil and add chopped onion and peppers. Cook for about 2-3 minutes. Add 2 cups chicken and stir around to heat. Add ½ cup broth and cream. Stir in seasoning and add more to taste. -Fill each tortilla with a spoonful of chicken filling and sprinkle with cheese, roll up and place seam side down in greased pan.

-Melt butter and whisk flour, allowing to cook for a minute. Pour in chicken broth and whisk for another 2 minutes. Reduce heat and add sour cream; stir. Allow to bubble and heat thoroughly (just a couple more minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in cheese until melted. -Pour sauce over enchiladas and bake uncovered at 350 for about 30 minutes. Garnish with cilantro, salsa or whatever you love!

Chicken-Broccoli Casserole 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded 4-5 cups cooked rice 1 small bag frozen broccoli 1 can broccoli cheese soup 1 can cheddar cheese soup ½ cup miracle whip ½ to 1 cup milk 1 tsp garlic powder ¼ tsp dry mustard Salt/pepper to taste

Layer rice, chicken, then broccoli in a greased 9x13 pan. Mix soups, miracle whip and seasonings together. Add enough milk to desired consistency - it needs to be thin/pourable, but not runny. Pour over casserole. Sprinkle with French’s fried onion, if desired. Cover and bake at 350 for 30-45 minutes. Remove cover and bake additional 15-20.

eats Lemon Marinade

3-4 pounds chicken (bone-in or boneless) 2 Tbsp lemon zest 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice 1/4 cup olive oil 3 cloves garlic, crushed 2 Tbsp fresh basil (or 2 tsp dried) Also try Rosemary, Thyme, Sage, 1 tsp sea salt 1 tsp black pepper Rinse and pat dry chicken. Place chicken in glass bowl and pour marinade over. Stir to coat all pieces. Cover bowl and refrigerate 2 hours. Grill chicken or bake at 425 for 45-55 minutes (or until juices run clear). If baking in oven, brush chicken with 2 Tbsp melted butter

Crockpot Chicken Tacos

2 pounds uncooked - boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs 4 cloves garlic, sliced thin or minced 1 small onion, chopped 2 peppers, chopped (jalapeno, cubanelle, banana, etc) ½ lime, juiced

½ cup tomato sauce OR ½ cup canned diced tomatoes 2 Tbsp canned chipotle peppers in adobo (peppers are whole in can and need chopped) 1-2 Tbsp chili powder 1 tsp cayenne pepper, optional Salt/pepper to taste Corn tortillas Your favorite toppings: lettuce, cilantro, tomatoes, sour cream, cheese, salsa Rinse and pat chicken dry. Combine all ingredients (minus tortillas and toppings) into a greased slow cooker. Cover and cook on high, 4 hours or low, 8 hours. Shred chicken and serve with juices.

eats By: Emma Kester

Bombers BBQ

439 Ridge Road • Munster, IN 46321 (219) 836-2662 Good for kids: Yes • Attire: Casual

I love finding new and exciting places to try, so I’m constantly asking friends for recommendations, keeping my eyes open while driving around, and even searching the internet for new and different places. So imagine my surprise when I was reading a local magazine and came across a place I had never heard of – no recommendation, no web search, no passing it on my way to an errand. By the time I was done reading the article I knew where my family was eating dinner that night! Bombers BBQ, located on Ridge Road in Munster, is a barbeque smokehouse specializing in beef brisket, pulled pork and baby back ribs. The restaurant opened in January of this year, and takes pride in their slow and low smoking process, and of course, great seasonal sides. My family and I set out to try this new place and I have to say - Bombers had me from the moment I walked through the door! Upon entering, you are immediately welcomed by their homey and inviting décor. You can instantly feel the great vibe the place gives off, and you get the feeling that it’s a relaxing place your entire family will enjoy. After we were seated, I immediately went through the menu! I knew I wanted to try a variety of items, so we started with a few appetizers: Fried Pickles - fried until nice and crispy with a lil kick; Bang Bang Shrimp – all I can say is delicious; and then the Mississippi Wontons – an amazing take on a favorite appetizer of mine, and they are accompanied by coleslaw, a lil’ slice of heaven.

For our main course, we knew it would be a simple choice. Bombers is known for their smoking, so that is what we needed to try. My husband chose a slab of smoky, fall of the bone ribs, accompanied by Bombers homemade sauce. I tried the pulled pork sandwich and it was AMAZING! And, with over 12 different sauces, you are bound to find something you’ll love! Of course, we had to treat ourselves to some dessert and boy was it a treat, I’m talking fair food AMAZING treat. That’s right, deep friend candy bars, Oreos and Reese’s; can you say YUM???? So the next time you are craving some amazing BBQ, check out Bombers. And if you go, let us know on our Facebook page, we’d love to hear your thoughts on the food!!

Meditrina Market Café 24 Washington St Valparaiso, IN 46383 (219) 707-5271 Good for kids: No Attire: Casual

If you’re looking for one of Valparaiso’s best kept secrets, might I suggest Meditrina Market Café. This hidden gem, located on Washington Street, is the definition of cute and cozy! It’s small tables, and beautiful patio seating gives Meditrina a very romantic feel. My husband and I stopped in their one night for a glass of wine and some appetizers. The few things we tried were very flavorful and filling. I recommend the stuffed or bacon wrapped dates, meat grape leaves, pomegranate beets and the roasted eggplant crostini. Meditrina was perfect for our date night! And P.S., if you’re in the mood for dessert, try the chocolate mousse!!

family health by: Brooke Recktenwall

Get Out Get Fit

Guilty pleasures - we all have at least one! And for the sake of giving our readers a good read, I decided to indulge in one of mine and share the experience. Let’s begin with the fact that I am an infomercial addict. I love watching infomercials on hair products, steam mops, small appliances and fitness. The fitness infomercials have become my absolute favorite, and I find myself running on the treadmill captivated by Shaun T., creator of Insanity, and Tony Horton, creator of P90X. I must confess that as much as I LOVE watching these infomercials, I have never actually dialed the 1-800 number and ordered these fitness DVDs. So, when Cyndi Evilsizor from Women’s Core Fitness contacted me to come try an Insanity class at her gym, I was pumped! I finally had an opportunity to try this great workout that I have been watching forever, and all without the 3-easy payments of $39.95!! Check out the details that follow - this is a workout you are going to want to try!

Insanity Explained Insanity was created by Shaun T. (hottie & fitness guru). Insanity workouts consist of max interval training that rotate long bursts of maximum intensity with short bursts of rest. Cardio, plyometrics, and using your own body weight as resistance, is combined to create this high intensity workout. Insanity group classes can now be found in your local gym offered by a certified Insanity instructor. This Insanity certification class is a great, recent addition to the fitness industry.

Insanity Experience For this month’s fitness experience, I enlisted the companionship of my fellow MTM writers, Beth Whitaker and Mindy Gear. These ladies have become my running buddies, and I figured if I was going to go sweat it out in this new class - so were they. After all, misery loves company! Upon arriving at Women’s Core Fitness we were greeted by a very friendly member of the front desk staff that put us right at ease. This fitness facility is run by women for women, and you sense an aura of “girl power” the moment that you enter the building. Cyndi Evilsizor, Manager and fitness instructor, introduced herself and explained that she was among the first group of people to certify in this Insanity method of group exercise. We quickly found an empty spot on the fitness floor, which was nearly full of twenty or so women, and got down to business. Coordinated, perky and positive are the three words I’d use to describe Cyndi as she led the class through burpees, tricep dips, push-ups and sprints – she is an amazing instructor!! She explained each set of exercises and demonstrated variations of each exercise based on your fitness level and ability. This class truly catered to all shapes, sizes and fitness abilities - there were even several expectant mothers in the class. The 4550 minutes of interval training passed quickly, and then Cyndi led us through the recovery/stretching portion of the class. Beth, Mindy and I all had a great work out, and we were in agreement that it was a fantastic class. I am pretty sure I owe my friends dinner and dessert for accompanying me on that sweaty, fitness adventure.

d s, e s e g y s n ” di d t of n r d, o s, g d n d e 5d g t a s t

Where to Find Insanity As I mentioned before, this is a relatively new group class offering. Shaun T. has only offered this certification class for the past year, so odds are you will not find this class at a majority of health clubs at this time. Women’s Core Fitness is the first to offer it in Northwest Indiana. Women’s Core Fitness is located at 3315 45th Street in Highland. Insanity class is offered on Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:30 pm. No membership or contract is required to drop in to a class. For additional schedules and pricing, go to www.womenscorefitness.net. The full Insanity program on DVD can be purchased at www.beachbody.com.

And if you do check out an Insanity class at Women’s Core Fitness, be sure to let them know Brooke sent you! If you have a fun new workout you’d like me to try, send an email to momtomomnwi@gmail.com. Make sure the subject line reads: Get out and Get Fit!

fun & games

Artists of the Month

Jillian Brown, Age 6

Gabriela Stack, Age 4 26

Jessa Mendez., Age 7

Janiella Clark, Age 3

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. Winners will be notified by phone or email and displayed in the October Mom to Mom Good luck!!!

Name:_______________________________________________ Age:___________ Address:__________________________________________________ City:_________________________ State:______ Zip:____________ Parent’s Name:_____________________________________________ Phone Number:_____________________________________________ Email:_____________________________________________________

fun & games by: Amber Neace

Battling Boredom

Back to school time in my house leaves me with mixed emotions. As my oldest heads off to first grade, my two year old is home with me - missing his big brother. Since he is used to having a constant companion, keeping him occupied has proven to be difficult. I decided I needed to get creative if I was going to help him fill the void left by his brother. So, I looked through online and found some awesome ideas to keep my little guy entertained without costing me a lot of money. In addition to being fun, some of these tasks can help with your toddlers fine motor skills.

Treasure Hunt

For this, all you need is a large bowl filled with rice and small toys. Who knew something so simple could entertain my son for such a long time? I save the rice in a disposable container so it can be reused over and over again. This can get messy, so make sure you have everything set up in an area that can be easily swept or vacuumed. Sit you child down at let them go to town. Try giving them little medicine cups to pour rice from one to another. Also, put objects in the bowl that are different textures and colors. It is fun to see them get so excited about finding treasures in the rice.

Stringing Beads

This is pretty self-explanatory. For kids who have better control, give them a piece of string and some beads or cereal. If they need a little bit more assistance, use a piece of pipe cleaner in place of the string. Create patterns for your child to follow and use larger beads so it is easier for them to handle. Then make the strings into bracelets for Auntie’s, Grandma’s or siblings.

Noodle Letters

Get a piece of construction paper and draw a letter on it with glue. Create the letter with noodles, pom poms, or other bits of paper. Make the sounds of each letter as you put them together – then see if your child can come up with words that begin with that letter. Also try making up songs with the letter sounds – and don’t be afraid to be goofy. Turn craft time into learning time without your child even realizing it.

Make You Own Instruments

This is probably my favorite of all of the activities that I do with my kids. Music plays a large part in our daily life. We often have dance parties in our kitchen, make up songs while we clean and have music playing for a better part of the day. You can make musical instruments out of just about anything. We used a tissue box, rubber bands and a paper towel roll to make a guitar. To make a drum, use an old coffee can. Old water bottles and dried beans make great maracas. Put this all together and you have one amazing toddler living room band. Have your little one’s perform for older family members when they return home from school or work.

Baking

Break out the mixer and get your hands dirty, after you wash them of course. My boys love to bake with me. Most of the time we will just go to my recipe book and find one of their favorites, but it is always fun to look online for something new. It’s important to let them help as much as possible. You can do this by measuring everything out but letting your kids add the ingredients to the bowl. Also, count the ingredients as you add them. This is great for older kids who need help with fractions. So there you have it, my go to list of things to do to keep your toddlers attention without having to turn on the TV. Enjoy every moment, some of the best memories are made when you least expect it.

community calendar Upcoming Races in Northwest Indiana: *35th Annual Popcorn Panic

*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 preregistered youth (14 and under).

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 *Rascal 5K Run/Walk for Breast Cancer along the course. Standard registration is $25. September 21st with a start time of 2:00pm -This event takes place at Rascals parking lot *2nd Annual John Willems Run Around the in St. John. Cost is $25 with a shirt. For more Lake & 5K information on this race, call 219.365.7880. September 14th with a start time of 8:00am -This race starts and finishes at Hanover High *Run Into Fall 10K School in Cedar Lake. Things get kicked off September 21st with a start time of 8:00am with a Kiddie Dash for ages 10 and under at -This event takes place at the Immanuel 8:00am, and then there’s a 7.2 mile run around Lutheran Church and School in Valparaiso. the lake starts at 8:30am – the 5K run starts at Proceeds benefit the Immanuel Food Pantry. 10K runners can pre-register until September 8:40am. 7th and costs $25. Pre-registration for the *Winfield October-Fast 5K 1-mile Kids Fun Run costs $12. th September 14 with a start time of 8:00am -This race is a 5K Run and 2K Fun Walk and *Crusader Classic gets started at 10645 Randolph Street. Awards September 21st with a start time of 8:00am will be presented to the overall male and -This 5K Run/2K Fun Walk gets started at 10550 female winners as well as first three male and Park Place in St. John. Cost per participant is $25 and includes a “Crusader Classic” tech female finishers in each age group. shirt.

*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. 30

*2nd Annual Anyone Can Do a 5K

September 21st with a start time of 8:00am -The 5K, along with the 1 mile course is a flat route through the Plum Creek Subdivision across the street from Omni Health and Fitness. Race fee is $20.

community calendar *Space Race 5K

south of the High School. Entry fee is $25. All proceeds go to the Hoosier Burn Camp September 22nd with a start time of 8:00am -This 5K Run takes place at 2300 173rd Street in Foundation. 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 pre-register!

*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 noncompetitive 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

*2nd Annual Devil Dash 5K Run and 2 Mile Walk

October 5th with a start time of 8:00am -The Devils Dash 5K course has been mapped out on and off road to give each participant a challenging experience. The race gets started at 195 W. Oakley Avenue in Lowell.

*3rd Annual Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana 5K Walk/Run

October 12th with a start time of 9:00am -This walk/run has a staggered start for running participants, walking participants, and family participants (children in strollers, wagons, etc.) Snacks, warm beverages and Habitat for Humanity apparel and goodies will be available. There will also be a spectator section for family and friends to cheer on!

*Manda’s Race

October 26th with a start time of 9:00am -This is the series Championship Race for the September 28th with a start time of 10:00am -This 5K Run gets started at Merrillville High Extra Mile Racing Series. The race features School and goes through the subdivision a Champion’s Division along with an “all comers” Open Division. The Champion’s Race will start 5 minutes before the Open Division. In order to participate in the Champion’s Division, a participant must have finished as the Overall or Masters Winner, or in the Top 5 in their age at a qualifying race.

*Valparaiso Half Marathon

November 10th with a start time of 8:30am

community calendar -This half marathon is a flat and fast course with very few turns or intersections. Running shirts are guaranteed for all runners registered by November 1st. For more information, send an email to Mackenna@unitedwaypc.org

*2013 Valparaiso Turkey Trot

November 28th with a start time of 8:00am -A holiday tradition since 2003, the Valparaiso Turkey Trot brings together families and friends from all over the region. This race is hosted by Porter-Starke Services Foundation and proceeds from this event benefit mental health and wellness programs and resources in Northwest Indiana. Turkey Trot has become the largest race of its kind in Northwest Indiana.

Family & Kid Events: *35th Annual Popcorn Festival

September 7th from 7:00am-6:30pm -The Valparaiso Popcorn Festival offers family-fin activities for all ages. Over 200 art and crafts booths, 30 food booths, kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; games, the five-mile Popcorn Panic, and the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Popcorn Parade are only the beginning of the excitement of this incredible festival. For a complete list of activities, including pre-event activities, go to http:// www.valparaisoevents.com/popcorn%20 festival/

*Arts and Crafts Family Fundraiser

September 7th from 10:00am-6:00pm -Raising Hope Inc. is holding an Arts and Crafts Family Fundraiser at Pioneer Family Campground in Lake Village. This 32

family friendly event will include hayrides, bounce houses, Popcorn the Clown and Balloon Artist, face painting, games, live music, prizes/raffles/giveaways, and food and drink. There will also be shopping from various vendors like Origami Owl, Scentsy, 31 Bags, Jamberry Nails and Paparazzi. The cost for this event is only $5 per car. For more information, call 219.789.8872 or send a message to raisinghopeinc@yahoo.com.

*4th Annual Viva Portage

September 7th from 1:00pm-11:00pm -El Cantarito Mexican Cuisine in Portage is throwing the biggest customer appreciation event around! This event offers families a day of outdoor fun with no cost to get it. This 12 hour event features everything from moonwalks and face painting and balloons to live music, food and drink. El Cantarito Mexican Cuisine is located at 6291 Central Avenue in Portage. For more information, go to www.elcantaritocuisine.com.

*Apple Fest

September 14th and 15th from 10:00am-6:00pm -Garwood Orchards, located at 5911 W. 50 South in LaPorte is hosting their Apple Fest.

community calendar This event offers crafts, arts, jewelry and and improvements at the Lake County ornaments. The fest will also include a U-Pick Fairgrounds. For more information, call farm, baked goods, live music and food. For 219.661.3071. more information, call 219.362.4385.

*Winfield Township 2nd Annual Community Fest

*34th Annual Fall Harvest Craft Festival

September 28th from 10:00am-5:00pm -Visit Griffith for their annual Harvest craft th September 14 from 8:00-9:00pm show ran by Boy Scout Troop 264. This event, A day full of fun including arts and crafts, car located at Central Park, features a large show, entertainment, food vendors, games, variety of beautiful unique and hand-made parade, special attractions, beer garden and items. Food will be available for purchase games. This event, located at 10645 Randolph and include choices like steamed corn and Street is FREE! For more information, call potatoes, hot dogs, pulled pork sandwiches 219.663.7027. and desserts- just to name a few. Admission into this event is free. For more information, *Bizarre Bazaar call 219.972.9412. September 21st from 10:00am-5:00pm -The annual Bizarre Bazaar takes places at Har- Mom and Adult Events: rison Park and Hohman Avenue in Hammond. *Wine & Canvas Admission is free. Attractions include bands, September 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th and October 1st vendors, children’s games and art activities, a car starting at 6:00pm show and community yard sale. Join the unex- -The Blue Chip Casinos’ It’s Vegas Baby! pected, outrageous, and whimsically bizarre ex- is hosting painting classes with cocktails! travaganza that offers something for everyone! During these entertaining classes, an artist walks the novice painters through the actual *Covered Bridge Harvest Fest painting – with fun music playing and a th th September 27 through September 29 social atmosphere. Anyone can register at -An annual Festival honoring the only wineandcanvas.com and choose he date/ “Covered Bridge” in Lake County. This festival painting they would like to paint. All art is focused on family fun, hand-made crafts, supplies will be included, and you go home and entertainment. Friday evening begins with your own original painting. The cost is with the “Pumpkin Bash” and Silent Auction. $35 per person. For more information, go to Then on Saturday and Sunday, the event w w w.bluechipcasino.com/whats -new/ features Pumpkin games, arts and crafts, events/wine-_-canvas. and entertainment. Proceeds raised at this event benefit the development of Special Olympics Lake County Training Facility 33

community calendar

KIDS EAT FREE OR REDUCED:

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 Amarillo Roadhouse –Kids eat free on Tues- meal. day at the location in Schererville. Reuben’s Mexican Grill – Sunday is Family Day! Kids 10 and under eat free with the purBob Evans – Kids eat free on Tuesday nights with the purchase of an adult entrée at Merrill- chase of an adult entrée. Dine in only. ville, Chesterton and Valparaiso locations. Shenanigan’s Pub and Eatery – Kids eat free Boston’s Gourmet Pizza – Kids eat free on on Wednesday’s and Sundays with the purchase Sundays AND Wednesdays with the purchase of an adult entrée. Shenanigan’s is located on of an adult entrée of $9.99 or more at the Scher- Route 20 in Portage. erville location. Texas Roadhouse – On Monday nights, the Buffalo Wild Wings – On Wednesday and Dyer location has $.99 kids meals, with the purSunday, kids 12 and under get half-price kids chase of an adult entrée. There is a limit of 2 kids meals per family. Andy Armadillo, the masmeals at Buffalo Wild Wings in Valparaiso. cot, can also be found on these nights, walking Denny’s – Kids can eat free at Denny’s on around the restaurant and playing with the kids! Tuesday and Saturday night from 4pm to 10pm. ***Do you have an event you want to share For every one regularly priced adult entrée with us? Just send an email to Stephanie@ purchased, two free kid’s meals are given. That momtomomnwi.com. The deadline for your means a family with four children can eat for the entry is due by the 15th. 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. 34

by: krystal taylor

for the way they parent, let’s face it; w e have all spent time doing that! We have also all heard the saying “spend less time judging others, and more time worrying about you.” We should do just that; spend less time focusing on who decides to breastfeed and more time on our own children. But we are only human, so I will let you in on my annoyance. It seems like every time I am at one the places I described earlier, there is always that one parent, so consumed by their cell phone or conversations with other people they just assume their child is behaving appropriately. We all know the second you take your eyes off of a child is when the mischief happens.

Over summer break I have spent a lot of time at local parks, indoor bounce houses, and pools and splash pads. During this time I have witnessed different kinds of parents with different kinds of parenting styles. Normally, I try not to judge other parents for the way they parent, unless of course they use the method of parenting I like to call “I don’t watch my child in public places.” I will be the first to admit that it takes everything in my power not to stand over my children like a hover craft every time I take them somewhere. Instead, I stand far away (3-5 feet) and watch them - I use to stand on top of them, so I feel like I have eased up a little. Anyways, nothing irks me more than the parent who is too busy doing something else, and can’t watch their child. There is so much controversy surrounding topics like breastfeeding, co-sleeping, staying at home vs. working, and disciplining your children –just to name a few, and we all have opinions on them. And when it comes to judging other parents

Recently, I was at a local park with my children, a friend, and her children. We witnessed other young children, unattended by adults, ripping apart the landscaping and throwing it all over the place. After watching them destroy the area for a few minutes, and not seeing any parents around, I decided to say something to them. It was nothing mean, just a friendly reminder to help keep our parks clean. They immediately ran around picking everything up – but still no parents were in sight. As my friend and I sat there on the park bench, being oh so “judgy” wondering where there parents were, something happened, something I should have probably saw coming. Here we are, chatting it up about parents who don’t pay attention and there is my daughter, Brooklyn, on the park bench, NAKED!! See, this is what happens when we spend time worrying about other people - lesson learned!! So let my humiliation be a wake-up call; every parent parents differently, none of us are perfect and kids will be kids. Parenting is a tricky job, we will always have to make choices, some easier than others, and sometimes we will choose the wrong thing. Just remember, next time you are busy judging another parent, someone may be getting naked behind you. 35

safety first

The beginning of a new school year is a great time to reinforce safety tips with our children. Issues like stranger danger and bus safety are some of the more common ones that need to be addressed. Here are some tips we can go over with our children: 36

feature Stranger Danger

Bus Safety

For Kids:

• Never get into a car with anyone they don’t know well. • Never talk to, provide assistance to, accept anything or give personal information to people they don’t know well.

• Stand at least three giant steps back from the curb as the bus approaches and board the bus one at a time.

• Don’t get close to people they don’t know well. Stay at least two arm’s lengths away so there’s room to back up or run away.

• Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before getting off.

• Pay attention to their surroundings and be on the lookout for suspicious people and vehicles.

• Use handrails when boarding or exiting the bus. Be careful of straps or drawstrings that could get caught in the door. If you drop something, tell the bus driver and cross when the driver indicates it’s safe. Teach kids to look left, right and left again before crossing the street.

• Play in safe areas, not empty buildings or other dangerous places. • Don’t take shortcuts through the woods, a back street, or empty lot and always walk with a friend. For Parents: • Be sure to know where your children are at all times and when they are supposed to return home. • Know whom your children’s friends’ are, where they live and how to get in touch with them. • Never leave a small child alone – at home or in the car – even for just a few minutes. • Teach your children that bad people don’t necessarily look mean – they often smile and act friendly. Teach your children not to be tricked – be smart! • Discuss how to identify safe adults who they can go to when they are in danger – people like police and firefighters. • Decide a secret code word to use in emergency situations. If you can’t pick up your children yourself, make sure the person you send uses the code word. Your child should never go with anyone who does not know the code word. • Give you children whistles to blow on if they feel in danger. The whistle attracts attention and may prevent a crime.

• If you cross the street after exiting the bus, take five giant steps in front of the bus, make eye contact with the bus driver and cross when the driver indicated it’s safe. Look left, right and left again before crossing the street. • Always cross the street in front of the bus – never go behind the bus. For Parents: • Follow the speed limit and slow down in school zones and near bus stops. Remember to stay alert and look for kids who may be trying to get to or from the school bus. • Slow down and stop if you’re driving near a school bus that is flashing yellow or red lights. This means the bus is either preparing to stop (yellow) or already stopped (red), and children are getting on or off. • Always walk with your kids to the bus stop and wait with them until it arrives.

• Make sure your child knows how to reach you in an emergency. • Teach your children how and when to call 9-1-1.

fun & games