June/July 2012
It’s a Long, Hot
Summer... Activities & events to keep your family entertained
Finding Perfection in the Imperfect
Kidz in the Kitchen: A healthy twist on family favourites
Like Being a Rockstar
A dad’s perspective
Our
2nd
Birthday Issue!
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The Terrible Twos
T
errible Twos. This phrase can send shivers down a parent’s spine. Tantrums. Constant ‘no’s.’ General defiance. Yes, having a 2 year old can be...um...challenging. When my first child approached the big ‘2,’ I was afraid…and rightly so, as it turned out. Literally on her 2nd birthday it was like a switch went off. She became a big girl with big attitude. I asked my friends with older children for advice. Really, I just wanted to hear that it only gets better, though I wouldn’t have been opposed to some secret remedy for ‘the twos.’ Well, I was less than pleased with what most of my friends had to say: “You think two is bad? Just wait until 3 and 4 hit!” they exclaimed. Letter from a Now, if only a couple parents said this, I probably wouldn’t Kamloops have paid much attention, but it seemed like EVERYONE foreMomma warned what was to come. In fact, they even had a little saying: Terrible Twos. Troublesome Threes. Fearsome Fours. Fabulous Fives. “What?” I thought, “I have to wait 3 more years until she is fabulous again!” Well, the three-year mark is almost here and I can’t wait for fabulous to kick in! Okay, I’m joking...mostly. Three and 4 have been filled with so many amazing things. My daughter surprises me daily with her knowledge, understanding, compassion, and love...but she also surprises me with her attitude - attitude that I think she reserves especially for me! I fear that I have to admit 3 was actually harder than 2, and 4 harder yet. A 2 year old lying on the floor in the middle of the grocery store isn’t entirely humiliating. But when a 4 year old does it...well, you just try to pretend you don’t know who the child belongs to! And at 4, my daughter thinks she knows everything and sometimes I think she does too! But with knowledge, comes power: the power to throw even bigger, more meaningful tantrums. Yes, I’d happily take the attitude of a 2 year old over that of a 4 year old...and I’m going to get it! My youngest is quickly approaching 2, but this time I’m not afraid. Why? Because I know what’s to come! We’re celebrating another 2nd birthday in my house: Kamloops Momma’s! However, we plan to miss the terrible twos all together (though I can’t promise I won’t throw any tantrums!). Yes, the terrific twos, here we come! (And please let the fabulous fives start soon too...) -- Courtney Charlton, editor To share your ideas and comments, contact us at info@kamloopsmomma.com or find us on Facebook!
On the Cover: Photographer Kelly Tuohey’s family - Wesley, Zoe, and Shamus - are surrounded by her favourite inspiration: beautiful light. Kelly loves emotional connections and reveals that love in her work. In other words, she makes family photography more meaningful. Way more meaningful. She believes it’s an honour to come to your home and is honoured when you come to her studio. She imagines your experience to be wonderfully unforgettable. Real life is beautiful. Organically perfect; blissfully chaotic. Let Kelly show you. www.kellytuoheyphotography.ca
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A Look Inside Kamloops Momma...
Spencer, 3
Hunter, 6 Susannah, 4 and Sawyer, 2
Amanda, 6
Jack, 3
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Like Being a Rock Star
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It’s a Long, Hot Summer...
A dad’s perspective
Activities and events to entertain your family all summer long
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Bug Spray and Sunscreen and Toxins...
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Why Camp?
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What’s Wrong with Me?
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Painting Spills and Big Aha’s
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A Day in the Life...
20
Kidz in the Kitchen
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Moms with Cameras:
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Bringing Kamloops’ Sexy Back: Revealed
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A Letter to My Beautiful Little Kylee
Alternatives to traditional products Friends, nature, and play!
One mom’s struggle with postpartum depression Recipes for creative play
A year in the life of a homeschooling momma of four A healthy twist on family favourites
Perfection in the Imperfect
A year-long course for budding photographers Tasha Ackerman
This is Your Story
Resources: 15 Things We Love 19 Birthday Party Directory 22 Dear Aunty 25 Notes from a Boho Momma 28 Community Resource Directory 30 Community Events Calendar Alexa, 4
Kamloops Momma is the fun, reliable publication connecting local families to each other and to our community. We provide information about regional events, resources and businesses, as well as articles intended to inspire, enlighten and empower parents and caregivers. As a local resource, we want our community to get involved. We encourage and accept submissions from any person, business, or organization sharing our goal to strengthen our parenting community. Kamloops Momma is published every 2 months and available for free at businesses and resource centres throughout our region. Readers can also download the magazine online and subscribe to have it delivered right to their door. 6
Kamloops Momma Magazine
Published by Courtney Charlton, editor Contact: info@kamloopsmomma.com 778.472.0020
Disclaimer: The publisher will not be responsible for errors or omissions. The opinions and views expressed herein are those of the contributors/writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of the publisher. All rights reserved. No written or illustrated part of this magazine may be reproduced, except brief quotations in articles or reviews, without permission from the editor and individual authors.
www.kamloopsmomma.com
It’s Like Being a Rock Star
A Dad’s Perspective By Cody Charlton
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Cody’s daughters affectionately cheer for their ‘Super Dad.’ Photo: Milk & Honey Photography
Dada, what’s it like being a dad?” “Well, honey, it’s kind of like being a rock star.” Sure, the groupies may be on the small side and contained to my household but they hang on to every word I say and even form an arrival line at the window to get the first glimpse of ‘SUPER DAD!’ coming home. When I open the door, it’s a full on sprint into my arms. If by chance my littlest groupie gets to me first, it’s on! The puppy dog eyes start fluttering, the bottom lip puckers up: “But, Dad, I wanted to give you the first hug.” My oldest daughter, Evalee, is 5 and has been working on an acting career for some time now. Just today she was looking in the mirror practising her faces and trying to pick one for the play she’s writing, directing and acting in. “Honey, if you’re putting on a play, you’ll need all of your faces; that’s what makes the show awesome,” I encourage her. She plays everything up, whether it’s genuine or for her gain there’s always a performance. Her dramatic nature is the root of what has become my alterego: “SUPER DAD!” It was just an ordinary day lazing around the house when I asked Evalee if she wanted to go to the park. Her eyes lit up like a thousand strands of Christmas lights on a dark and snowy night, her smile as wide as Niagara Falls, her fists pumping furiously like she was in the front row of a rock concert, dancing around and yelling, “SUPER... DAD!” With a reaction like this, you might think we keep her locked up in the closet and only let her out for eating, sleeping and the occasional bathroom break. But, no, we had been to the park last week. Really, we only live a stone’s throw away. But that’s Evalee: little miss theatrical. From this park day forward, she started introducing me to everyone as Super Dad. Well, I might have hinted that I’d like it if she introduced me that way! Yes, I’m milking every last moment of these young years because it seems like every man out there, whether they have daughters or not, has to remind me that they don’t stay young and sweet forever. It’s that look you get when you tell a guy that you have two daughters - that subtle yet unmistakable smirk, that lifting of the eyebrows: “Wow, good luck with that, buddy.” And, trust me, I have an older sister and I know what she was like behind the scenes. She did not make life easy on my dad and there was only one of her! Only time will tell if my daughters go easy on me or not and, right now, time is on my side. With Evalee only 5 and Lainey
just shy of 2, I figure I must have 10 more years with at least one of my girls thinking that I’m their rock star. And I’m going to do everything in my power to be their rock star for as long as possible. Like the other day when I demonstrated ‘fire safety’ in the back yard. “Dad, you’re a rock star!” exclaimed Evalee. (And by ‘fire safety,’ I mean Poi. Sure, I probably won’t win the most responsible parent award with that stunt but I can’t be a rock star dad by being responsible all of the time!) Cody Charlton is the father of 2 beautiful little girls and, you might have guessed, Mr. Kamloops Momma! When he heard we wanted a dad’s perspective in honour of Father’s Day, he offered and we’re so happy - and surprised - that he did! Happy Father’s Day to Cody and to all of the dads out there!
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It’s a Long, Hot Summer... A
s the end of the school year approaches, most kids are buzzing with excitement: a whole summer without homework, teachers, and early mornings! Many parents, on the other hand, are wondering what they will do to keep their children entertained for the whole summer holiday. And for the littlest children, the hot weather not only means hats, sunscreen, cover-ups, and hydration - sometimes it means just staying inside! Whether you want to enjoy the sun, avoid the heat or simply keep your kids happy, our region has so many summertime activities for families to enjoy. Here’s some of our favourites, many of which are free or low-cost. We hope you and your family have a wonderful summer filled with sunshine, smiles, and snuggles!
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Celebrate!
Apple Blossom Festival
The whole family can enjoy hiking, kids activities and entertainment during one of the most beautiful times of the year. Festivities take place August 4 - 5 at Sun Peaks Resort. www.sunpeaksresort.com
BC Bears Day
Join Peter Puffin’s Whale Tales and Peter and Friend’s at the BC Wildlife Park to celebrate Grizzly Cub’s 1st birthday on August 6. www.bczoo.org
Canada Day
On July 1, celebrate our national holiday at Riverside Park. Festivities begin at 7am with a Lions Pancake breakfast and end with an exciting display of fireworks. There will be entertainment, art, food, and an abundance of cultural activities. www.kamloops.ca/event/canadaday
Kids Go Wild Day
On June 23, kick off summer with the award-winning singing duo Bobs and Lolo at the BC Wildlife Park. www.bczoo.org
Summer Kick-Off Weekend
A weekend of activities for all ages: Jo’s Road Race, Mountain of Beer & Chili Cook-Off, rock climbing wall, performances from clowns, 5 Star Dog Agility Demonstrations, bouncy castle, and more. June 30 - July 1. www.sunpeaksresort.com
Teddy Bear Picnic and Mother Goose Celebration
Don’t forget to bring your teddy bear and a picnic lunch to this free event. Enjoy games, races, face painting, crafts, and more at Prince Charles Park on June 14 from 11 - 1 pm. www.interiorcommunityservices.bc.ca
Activities & Events to Entertain Your Family All Summer Long Kamloops Ribfest 2012
Professional ribbers from Canada and the U.S show off their delicious rib recipes in Kamloops August 10-12. In conjunction with Hot Nite in the City, this free event includes a rib cook-off, music and entertainment, a children’s area, and more! All proceeds go to youth charities and programs in the community. www.kamloopsribfest.com
Create!
Home Depot Kids Workshops
Every second Saturday of the month, kids ages 4-12 can participate in these free workshops. Participants receive their very own Home Depot apron, a certificate, a pin, and an awesome project to take home. Upcoming projects include a moving truck and an organizer. Workshops run from 10 am - 12 pm. 250. 371.4300.
Make and Take Art Projects
For just $2, Kids 3 and over can make a fun selection of crafts every Thursday in July and August. There are 2 sessions a day at the Old Courthouse Cultural Centre: 11:30 and 1 pm. Get creative with wax painting, paper bag puppets, wire sculpture and more! 250.828.3500.
Chapters Craft and Storytime
Enjoy a story and craft for free at Chapter’s Bookstore every Saturday at 11 am. 250.377.8468
Explore!
Farmers’ Markets
Downtown Farmers’ Market
Wednesdays, 8 - 2 / Saturdays, 8 -12
North Shore Farmers’ Market Fridays, 4 - 8
For a complete list of farmers’ markets in BC, visit www.bcfarmersmarket.org.
CAMP: Kamloops Museum and Archives KMA offers several
day camps and workshops for kids (and adults) this summer - dinosaurs, archaeology, the history of Kamloops, and more! Kamloops Museum and Archives and the Kamloops Children’s Museum are open Tuesday to Saturday from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. 207 Seymour Street 250-828-3576 www.kamloops.ca/museum
Secwepmc Museum and Heritage Park
Discover the rich history of the Secwepemc people when you and your family explore the museum’s cultural displays, the 5 hectre Heritage Park, with more than a kilometre of trails and the archaeological remains of a 2,000 year old Secwepemc winter village site, and the unique Ethnobotanical Gardens. www.secwepmicmuseum.com.
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Summer Activities & Events Spirit of 2141 Train
Ride the Spirit of 2141 Train, discover it’s rich history, and even see a wild wild west show, complete with train robbers on horseback. Departures in July and August are Mon/Tues/Fri at 7 pm and Sat at 11 am, as well as a special ride on July 1. www.kamrail.com
YMCA Child Interactive Centre
Visit the Southwest Y’s drop-in playgroup Monday to Friday from 9 - 12pm. Circle time, crafts, and a huge selection of toys and activities are available for children ages 0-6. Unit E, 1420 Hugh Allan Dr 250-372-7791
Learn!
CAMP: Eureka Science Camp
Discover ‘Crazy Chemistry,’ ‘unBelieveable Biology,’ ‘Exciting Engineering,’ and ‘Funky Physics’ at these week long science camps held at TRU. Camps run from July 3 to August 24 and are for ages 7 - 14. Visit www.tru.ca/eureka for more info or call 250.371.5534.
Family Fun with Literacy
These free Friday night events are fun for the whole family. Games, storytelling, crafts and more, plus every family goes home with a free book. Literacy nights are held monthly at Riverside Park and McDonald Park. For more info, contact Merlene Sibley at 250-554-3134 ext. 582 www.interiorcommunityservices.bc.ca
Reading CAMP: BIG Little Science Centre Summer The TNRD offers free summer reading BLSC teaches kids how fun science can be with more than 140 hands-on stations and entertaining demonstrations. In addition to summer drop-in (Monday to Saturday, 10am - 4pm), BLSC offers Super Science and Robotics summer camps. 985 Holt Street 250.319.0689 www.blscs.org
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programs with incentives to keep kids reading all summer long. This year’s theme is “Strange but True.” Younger children can participate in the Read-toMe club. Registration opens June 18 and the program starts July 3. www.tnrdlib.ca 250.372.5145
Listen!
Music in the Park Riverside Park
Free nightly musical entertainment at Riverside Park Bandshell from 7- 8:30 pm all July and August, weather permitting.
McDonald Park
Every Friday night in July and August, enjoy free musical performances from 7- 8:00 pm, weather permitting.
Move!
CAMP: Academy of Dance
From July 23 - 27, kids ages 3 - 8 can enjoy dancing, arts and crafts, and various community activities. Children will also put on a recital for parents to attend. www.theacademyofdance.ca
CAMP: Faction Skate & BMX Inc. This 2500 sq. ft. indoor facility for bikes and skateboards offers summer camps, birthdays, clinics, drop-ins, and a retail store. 1314 Dalhousie Drive 250.374.2224 www.factionskatepark.com
Summer Activities & Events CAMP: Junior Golf Camp
Outdoor Pools
These 3 day camps for ages 6 - 18 are a great introduction to the game of golf, using games to create a fun learning experience. www.sunpeaksresort.com
Prince Charles Park (wading pool) 11th avenue and Columbia Street
Brocklehurst Pool 2470 Fleetwood Avenue 250.554.1747
Kids of Steel Triatholon
On June 24, swim, bike, and run to the finish line of this fun event for ages 5 and up. Registration required. Brock Arena. 250.828.3500
CAMP: River City Gymnastics
Week long summer camps at RCG will keep your kids moving all day long with gymnastics, sports, games, outings, and crafts. www.rivercitygymnastics.ca
McDonald Pool 262 King Street 250.554.2254
Waterparks
Riverside Park (Downtown) McDonald Park (North Shore) Albert McGowen Park (Uptown)
Splash!
For a complete list of parks and locations, check out www.kamloops.ca/ parks/cityparks.shtml.
CAMP: Summer Swim Camps
Kamloops Classic Swimming offers summer swim camps for ages 5 and over. These camps are taught by experienced competitive swimmers and include activities both in and out of the water. Two sessions are offered this summer, July 10 -13 and July 16 - 19, at the Canada Games Pool. 250.828.3660 www.swimkamloops.com
Indoor Pools
Canada Games Pool 910 McGill Road
250.828.3655
Westsyde Centenial 859 Bebek Road 250.579.8121
YMCA Kamloops
400 Battle Street 250.372.7725
Watch!
Project X-Fest Theatre
Enjoy outdoor theatre at Prince Charles Park from July 18 - Aug 11. This year’s festival features Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet and James and the Giant Peach, the journey of a young boy, a gargantuan fruit, and friendships in the most unusual of circumstances. Shows nightly, except Sundays. www.projectxtheatre.ca 250-682-9055
Kamloopa Pow Wow
The Kamloopa Pow Wow is one of the largest celebrations of First Nations’ culture and heritage in Western Canada. The 3 day event features storytelling, songs, and dance in beautiful traditional regalia. August 3 - 5 250.828.9782 www.tkemlups.ca
Children’s Outdoor Theatre
Enjoy free theatre productions at a Riverside Park every Tuesday to Saturday at 1 pm in July and August. Also keep your eye out for roving street theatre performances too! www.kamloopsarts.com
erside Park
ge 6, at Riv
Amanda, a
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Bug Spray
and
Sunscreen
and
Toxins... OH, MY!
By Krystal Clark
L
onger days, beautiful rays, and the sound of small children being sprung free from their winter dungeons. Summer is here! There is really nothing quite like the great outdoors for little people - the freedom of running across green grass, playing in the sandbox, going to the lake, and just burning off their pent up energies so that (hopefully) they can sleep deeply through the night for their parents (Can I get an Amen?). Between water fights, camping, and slurping down fresh watermelon that drips juice off their fingers, it’s safe to say that summertime is heaven to small people. Speaking of delicious eats, it seems that with the change in the weather come so many more factors for moms to have to account for. Mosquitoes and bugs seem to think that our babies are as sweet as we do, albeit in a different manner. There are so many different brands of products that market to being ‘safe’ and ‘baby friendly,’ but when it comes down to brass tacks, what should we really look for? Bug Repellents: DEET isn’t neat, but we’ve been so convinced by popular media that nothing will keep us as protected from bites and stings as well as the massive Costco-sized Deep Woods Off. In several studies, DEET has been shown to have negative side effects and, in rare cases, thought to have caused birth defects, asthma attacks, and seizures. Scary stuff, and all things that we would rather our children avoid in general. But before you bust out the beekeeper garb and duct tape your doors and windows shut, you should know that there are a number of wonderful, effective natural sprays and balms on the market these days. Many are also handmade by work at home moms! Bonus! These repellents are usually essential oil based, and work without risking exposure to substances you would normally deign to dump down your sink. They do require regular application and can actually smell rather pleasant if you enjoy the aroma of essential oils. So, get your inner hippie on! Break out the patchouli, chain some daisies, and protect your family with a repellant that was gifted to us by nature. Sunscreen: As the mother of two very fair-haired children, as well as being married to one strawberry blonde, freckled husband, I know that sunscreen and sun protection in general are not something to mess around with. My husband could probably turn the shade of a freshly boiled lobster within a few minutes of Kamloops sun and, as much fun as it would be to poke fun at him (literally) in his state of agony, I’m a nice wife and arm him and our children with a hefty dose of SPF before
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they head outside to enjoy the warmth. First and foremost, to protect your children from the sun, cover up in loose cotton or SPF clothing. The more you avoid the direct UVA and UVB rays, the better of your skin will be. And hats are an absolute must but they’re much easier said than done. I don’t know about anyone else, but if someone ever invented a toddler-proof sun hat that would be guaranteed to stay on their heads or your money back, that person would not only be rich, but the hero/heroine of mothers with small children across the planet. Next up, sunscreen! Oxybenzone is a common agent in sunblock and has been reported by an Australian study to be avoided, not to be used with children, and not to be used topically over a large portion of the body, especially not with prolonged and repeated application. But that sounds just like how we use it, doesn’t it? So what ingredients are safe for children? Zinc oxide or titanium oxide. NOT with the words ‘micronized’ or ‘nanonized’ because this means that the molecules have been broken down to the micro or nano levels and they don’t actually offer protection, but the body absorbs the UVA and UVB rays instead. Plus, they’re inhalable at that small of a diameter. Yummy? No bueno. But don’t feel bad, mommas! Often these things are kept hush in order to keep sales of said products on the increase. Knowledge is power for you and your kids, so get informed! There are a number of top of the line natural and organic sunscreens out there. Go to your favourite local health food store, such as Nature’s Fare, and ask their staff about the ingredients found in the selection that they offer. They will be more than happy to help you, and you’ll have the assurance that you’re slathering up your little ones (and not-so-little ones) with a product that will be effective in keeping their skin smoochably burn free, while not harming them internally at the same time. While you’re there, you can check for some natural bug repellents too! So discard the kiddie sized haz-mat suits, ditch the DEET, throw on some lightweight clothing, slather those babies up in some safe sunscreen, and top it off with a good coating of naturally infused bug repellent and live this summer to its fullest. Life is too short to stay inside when there’s a huge world for your smallest loves to explore with you. Krystal Clark is the owner of Delish Naturals, all natural and organic body care for the whole family.
Why Camp? Friends, Nature, and Play By Robyn Heath, YMCA Camps
A
sk any child or adult who has been to summer camp what they remember most about their experience and you will probably hear about the friends they made and the chances they had to play in nature. For parents wondering whether to send their children to camp, these are two great reasons why camp is a great summer choice for kids. One of the most lasting memories that kids will take away after camp is the friends they met and the relationships they built during their time there. Summer camp is not only a place for kids to meet new people; it’s also a place that allows them to develop the social skills needed to make friends in any new environment. This can be a great confidence builder for kids about to move into a new grade, a new school or new neighbourhood. Camp is the perfect opportunity for kids to get away from TV’s, computers, and cell phones. Most camp activities take place outdoors where kids not only learn to appreciate nature but they also learn to be more aware of nature. “One of the really important parts of our camp-outs and our trips is teaching kids about low-impact camping,” says Ailsa Lapp, Director at YMCA Camp Deka. “Kids learn how to respect the environment by carrying all garbage with them and how to avoid damaging plant life in the areas they visit.” Developing respect and an appreciation of the natural environment extends right into camp packing lists where biodegradable shampoos are requested and cell phones, mp3 players and video games are banned. Unplugging kids from their electronic devices is an important aspect of the program, according to Lapp: “A ‘No iPods policy’ gives kids the chance to make their own music around the campfire, while time free of texting and video games helps them focus on building relationships with other campers,” she says, “After all, relationships are what camp is all about.” To learn more about Y Camp Deka or Day Camp, visit www.kamloopsy.org or call 250-372-7725. Robyn Heath: After graduating from the University of Victoria, Robyn spent a number of years working and volunteering in countries around the world, an experience which fueled her passion for work in the non-profit sector. Having been with the YMCA for the past four and a half years, Robyn has experience with Camps, Community Programs and Membership. Currently overseeing the Vancouver YMCA’s national and international exchange programs, Robyn loves seeing how youth can make a difference both locally and globally. Ailsa Lapp is the Director of YMCA Camp Deka, located outside of 100 Mile House, BC. Prior to joining the YMCA, she worked for over ten years in municipal recreation and has an extensive background in youth sports and recreation programs. Ailsa is a strong advocate for the physical and social benefits that a camp environment provides for children and is looking forward to seeing lots of new faces at Camp Deka this summer!
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What’s Wrong with Me?
One Mom’s Struggle with Postpartum Depression By Julie Letkeman
“
I don’t know what’s wrong with me!” I honestly can’t remember how many times I had said that – it felt like a million times every day. Three months earlier, our lives had changed in one of the most amazing ways possible; I had given birth to a beautiful baby boy - our second son. And he was perfect. This time of your life is supposed to be wonderful, with lots of cuddles, kisses, gazing at your amazing little miracle, and
so much, an extremely rare occurrence in our marriage, that I just wanted to leave. I didn’t think I could take any more. This is when I knew something had to be done. I did some research on my symptoms and they seemed to correlate with those of postpartum depression (PPD). So, in this world of social networking, I reached out to my friends on Facebook, asking if others had experienced PPD. I was beyond shocked with what came next. In only a matter of hours, I had 12 different friends e-mail me with stories of their fight with both depression and postpartum depression. What??? I had no idea so many women had dealt with this issue! No one ever talks about it! I was completely savouring every possible moment. But for me, rather than joy overwhelmed and extremely grateful for their allowing me into and happiness, I found my life in complete shambles and I did their personal worlds. Almost immediately, I felt a weight lift not know why. off my shoulders...I wasn’t the only one...I wasn’t going crazy. I cried again – but happy tears this time! I couldn’t stop crying. I was angry at the kids over the most After reading the stories of my friends, and having a long insignificant of things. I felt guilty for being upset with them. heartfelt talk with my husband, I decided that I needed to purI felt guilty that my husband would frequently leave for work with me in tears. I felt terrified to have to take care of the kids sue this issue with my doctor. I told him about how I had been by myself and scared that someone would see this side of me feeling: the crying, the anger. He agreed that I was most likely and take away my children. I felt like I needed to physically run suffering from PPD and prescribed some antidepressants. Honestly, I was very nervous about taking these, especially away or I was going to explode. because of the societal stigma surrounding mental health “This was not me – I’m a good mom,” I kept telling myself, “my kids are my whole world.” I tried to stay as positive as I issues. Surely everyone would be able to tell I was on antidecould but, despite all my best efforts, something kept dragging pressants – right?!? me back into this darkness. I finally hit rock bottom about four I summoned up some hope and courage and swallowed the months after my son was born; I was contemplating leaving first dose. And it was one of the best things I have ever decided my husband – my soul mate, my rock. We had been arguing to do. Within a few days, I felt “normal” – no mood swings,
“I felt like I needed to physically run away or I was going to explode.”
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no crying, no anger – just happy and back to feeling like ‘me’ again. The darkness had finally lifted. I hadn’t felt this way in such a long time. And here I am, six months later, fully enjoying my life, my children and my marriage. I don’t know when my journey with postpartum depression will end, but for right now, I wanted to share my story in hopes of possibly helping others and shedding some light on this issue.
A Bit About Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression is defined as “…moderate to severe depression in a woman after she has given birth. It may occur soon after delivery or up to a year later. Most of the time, it occurs within the first 3 months after delivery” [1]. *It should be noted that this is more severe than the typical ‘baby blues’ which last up to 2 weeks after giving birth* According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, some estimates on the frequency of postpartum depression range from 3-20% of births [2] with a significant increase of reoccurrence in subsequent pregnancies. The exact cause of PPD is not clear at this time, but there are links towards hormonal changes following childbirth. As well, there is noted to be an increased risk of PPD with women who have stressors at home (financial/relationship), those with previous history or family history of depression, and in those women who have had stressful events during the pregnancy or childbirth. Some of the symptoms of postpartum depression include guilt, anxiety, irritability, despondency, trouble sleeping, lack of appetite, loss of energy, loss of concentration, and tearfulness. Some women may feel ambivalent or negative towards their child, which can result in issues with mother-baby bonding. A new mother who is showing symptoms of PPD should be evaluated right away. The doctor may do a blood test, as some conditions (ie. hypothyroidism) may mimic symptoms of postpartum depression. Treatment options for PPD include medication, such as antidepressants, and therapy. Ensure that you have a good support person/group with which you trust and can talk openly, and that you take some time for yourself. Call your doctor if you experience any of the following: • Your baby blues don’t go away after 2 weeks • Symptoms of depression get more intense • Symptoms of depression begin at any time after delivery, even many months later • It is hard for you to perform tasks at work or at home • You cannot care for yourself or your baby • You have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby • You develop thoughts that are not based in reality, or you start hearing or seeing things that other people cannot Do not be afraid to seek help immediately if you feel overwhelmed and are afraid that you may hurt yourself or your baby. For more information, please contact your health care provider or visit websites such as cmha.ca or www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. REFERENCES U.S. National Library of Medicine (2010). Postpartum Depression. Retrieved from www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/ PMH0004481/ Canadian Mental Health Association (2012). Post Partum Depression. Retrieved from http://www.cmha.ca/bins/content_ page.asp?cid=3-86-87-88 Julie Letkeman was a nurse for 10 years, certified in Emergency and Forensic Nursing. When her first son was born, she worked casually, but after the birth of her second son, Julie decided to stay at home with her children and start a new career as a homeschooling Mom.
Things We Love... {We’ve tried it and we love it and we don’t want to live without it!}
For the Wee Ones:
Bitty Baby Bug Balm by Delish Naturals
Why do we love it? Want to keep bugs away from your little ones? This balm, especially created for babies 0-12 months, will keep the bugs away with just a dab behind the elbows, knees and on the back of the neck. It contains oils that are a natural repellant and are gently effective for warding off pests. $8.99, DelishNaturals.com
For the Kids:
Sand Play Set by Green Toys
Why do we love it? We love this set not just for it’s ecofriendliness - it’s made from recycled milk jugs - but also for its durability and play value. The bucket and tools are very thick plastic that will last through hundreds of sand castle making sessions. The set comes with a castle-shaped mold, bucket, shovel and rake. $32.95, Tumbleweed Toys
For the Mommas:
Cane Sugar Scrub by Ola Hawaii
Why do we love it?
These scrubs are a delicious blend of natural and organic ingredients including Hawaiian cane sugar, honey, tropical butters and flower extracts. They smell fantastic and will leave your skin refreshed and glowing. $7+, Aina Massage Spa
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Painting Spills and Big Aha’s
Recipes for Creative Play By Janet Whitehead
Aha’s:
A Recipe for Unexpected Discoveries Nutritional Information: A very freeing paint event that encourages imagination, intuition, perceptive skills and storytelling in addition to all the other benefits of creative play. Ingredients:
« Yupo paper – available at The Art Store or online at Opu-
Spills: A Recipe for Joyful Disaster Nutritional information: This project for family and friends is a great way to get past the paralyzing perfectionism that can happen when you show up to ‘creating.’ Enjoying the process and letting go of the outcome makes this a freeing and fun event. Be sure to remind yourself and others that the paintings have potential to be really ‘bad’ and that’s not just okay, it’s wonderful. Ingredients:
« One canvas (or more) per person. Canvases are available
inexpensively at local dollar stores.
« Any and all paint you already have: house paint, tempera
paint, spray paint.
« Painting ‘tools’: brushes, sticks, spray bottles, branches or
whatever tickles your imagination. « Paint balloons: fun, but if the messiness of making them stops you from doing this, then don’t include these. To make paint balloons: using a funnel, fill a water bottle with paint. Blow up a balloon and quickly place it over the top of the bottle. Tip bottle to fill balloon, remove balloon and tie it shut.
Directions:
« Set canvases side by side outside on the ground or
against a fence. Use a tarp if you are concerned about paint damaging the area. « Everyone starts throwing paint on ALL canvases using balloons, paint dipped branches and brushes, spray bottles, or simply pour and drip from the paint containers. « When everyone has laughed enough and tossed enough, have people stand beside their favourite. It’s surprising how this can evolve without a fight. Each person then plays with their canvas to enhance it. Feel free to paint with leaves, branches, sticks or whatever is nearby. « Let paintings dry then 1.) Store in the shed if really ugly. 2.) Use them again for the next spills event or 3.) Sometimes these paintings are amazing. Have each person decide what they would like to do with their creation.
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sartsupplies.com in pads or sheets. « Watercolour paint – any kind works. Higher quality watercolours work best but an inexpensive student set works very well. « Brushes « Plastic wrap - Saran wrap or Costco brands work best.
Directions:
« Paint or pour watercolour paints onto yupo paper in
‘splotches.’ Deeper, brighter and more opaque colouring works best. (ie: colours that don’t appear faded or overly translucent) « If you are inclined to paint an ‘image,’ do not fuss too much as it will change quite drastically by the time you are done. « While the paint is still wet, take sheets of plastic wrap and lay over top of the entire painting. You can use more than one sheet if necessary. « You can leave the sheets exactly as they land, or manipulate the plastic a bit to ‘move paint’ underneath. « Be careful not to overdo this movement or colours may mix and become muddy. (This is perfectly fine if you like muddy!) « Leave the plastic sheets on the painting for 24 hours or more. Paint must be dry before removing the plastic wrap. No peeking! Even after 24 hours, lift a corner to make sure paint has dried. « Remove plastic wrap and AHA! You have an intriguing landscape of patterns and colours. Have everyone look closely from all angles at the paintings. What do you see? Do you see flowers? Dragons? Cars? People? Oceans? Insects? What does the entire painting look like? Can you make a story up about the images you see? To use this technique intuitively: Before beginning your painting, ask a question that you would like an answer to. When the painting is complete and you’ve removed the plastic wrap, see if there is an answer to that question hidden within the painting. Janet L. Whitehead is a Professional Life Coach, and joyful facilitator of ‘Muses for Mommies’ – a course for moms to live inspired lives with less guilt and more fun. www.musingsandmud.
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A Day in the Life...
of a homeschooling momma of four By Teresa Wiedrick 0719 - First thought of the day: “Should I even be writing this all down?” I’m hardly representative of the mass of homeschoolers. Some school-at-home with desks and whiteboard; some exclusively follow the interests of their children. I am neither…or I’m both, depends on the season. 0720 - Madelyn has brought a coffee to my bed. This is my sign she wants to connect. 0745 - Hannah brings me a slice of toast and parfait. All three girls find their way to my bed with math and language arts workbooks. Zach is probably on computer downstairs, while I explain the area of a trapezoid to Hannah. 0800 - Rachel alternates reading paragraphs of ‘The Littles’ with me. 0820 - Zach reviews his Sesame Street number cards with Hannah and lets me hold his hand to make letters on an erasable page. He likes to be part of our studies. 0920 - Madelyn yawns as I explain a math concept: “Can we be finished?” The yawn is the sign she is overwhelmed. She’s finished a lesson on spelling and a weeks’ worth of math. 0921 - I dress, direct the morning routine, including chores - garbages, laundry and tidying rooms. 1050 - All the girls take turns playing violin for me. I read a Munsch story, “Mortimer,” to Zach...again. 1120 - Check my emails and Facebook.
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Gather breakfast dishes from my bed and stuff them in the sink to soak for lunch washing. I order a birthday cake. Leave the culinary creativity to the professionals this year! “Mom, can I check my emails?” Hannah asks. 1130 - Off to the YMCA. Caregiver Fern is a well-loved friend for our four, while I take some time to burn off energy in the gym. 1220 - My 9 year old sous chef is eager to make lunch herself: cheese quesadillas. She animates the ‘cooking show’ for her little brother. Table is beautifully set by Hannah, even tablecloth, linen napkins and candles. 1300 - Madelyn heads outside to search for signs of spring. Zach and Rachel mark up the carport pad with their tricycle and two-wheeler. Zach discovers “pider” (spider), and requires explanation for why he shouldn’t kill it….”piders eat bugs.” Spring has sprung, including signs of spring inside. 1405 - Quick trip to grocery store. Each child gets her own cart and a budget to buy Food Bank gift. Rachel complains that people are staring at her—she is a six year old with a cart and a mission. Hard not to notice. 1445 - Quick stop at florist shop—Madelyn searching for yellow rose for Hannah’s birthday gift. Lady asks if school is off for the day. When we share about home educating, we’re asked about the “S” word (socialization)…I share that I’m most thankful for healthy socialization originating from the home and community environment. As for social opportunities, I have trouble staying home. 1500 - “Quiet time” in Great Room. Everyone finds a comfy seat, Hannah prepares tea for all, and Rachel chooses a quiet cd. Hannah pulls out Usborne Chemistry. Madelyn gets out her Gray’s Anatomy colouring book. Rachel finds a Magic School Bus book. 1501 - I contemplate why I chose this particular day to represent ‘a day in the life’ when I could have chosen homeschool co-op day, and an afternoon playing Bingo with seniors. Or the violin
day, where we do studies in the KSO waiting room, and Highland Dance in the afternoon. Or a day when everyone is disagreeable. Probably I have aspirations to represent the happiest face of this lifestyle: quiet, cohesive and heart connected. 1502 - I am woken out of contented contemplation: Rachel and Madelyn want the same seat. Zach jams the music high… whoa, way too much Mozart! 1503 - Tea spills. “Sit down already!” 1523 - I ask Madelyn and Rachel to sit on my lap and read Forts of Canada. Hannah researches World War I for Titanic project. 1543 - Madelyn works on Medieval lapbook: how does a knight get knighted? Rachel searches for science experiment to perform. She decides to create her own. “Which freezes faster, the hot sauce or the lime cordial?” Zach washes the study floor with wet toilet paper, his recent preoccupation since I gave him a coin for his “work” yesterday. 1600 - Rotate the wash. 1620 - Girls go downstairs to finish writing and planning their play entitled Twisted Rumplestiltskin. For a two dollar entry, it’ll be debuting in two days. 1700 - Get the basa out of the freezer. Kids excited to see fish, because they know it means dessert. Madelyn upset that I started supper without her help. She hums while preparing rice and a salad. Rachel teaches 3 year old Zach how to set the table. 1735 - Kids at door telling Daddy about their day before he’s got a foot inside. At the table, Hannah wants to sit where Rachel is sitting. But Rachel set the table. But actually Zach set the table, so WHO gets to sit beside dad? 1830 - After supper clean up, each child plays chess with Dad. Everyone cuddles on his lap for a chapter of Little House on the Prairie before bed. Maybe I’ll have to write my own rendition of “Little House on the Semi-Arid Grassland.” Doesn’t have the same ring to it. But on days like this, it feels just as charming.
Birthday Party Directory
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Kidz in the Kitchen:
A Healthy Twist on Family Favourites (presented by KamloopsParents.com)
Black Bean Brownies Cauliflower-Crusted Pizza Crust: 1 cup cooked cauliflower, cut up 1 egg 1 cup mozzarella Pizza spices to taste (oregano, pepper, salt etc.) Chop up cooked cauliflower so it is about the size of rice. In a bowl, add egg, cheese, and spices and mix together. Spread mixture onto a greased cookie sheet or pizza stone in desired pizza shape. You can also use parchment paper so the pizza comes of more easily. Bake at 450º for about 15 minutes until lightly browned and cooked into a crust. Take crust out of the oven and add pizza sauce, cheese, and other desired toppings. Bake for an additional 15 minutes until your toppings cook and cheese is melted. Note: you can cook and cut up a whole cauliflower and save the rest for another time or just make more than one pizza!
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1 (15.5 oz) can of black beans 3 eggs 1 Tbsp vegetable oil 1/4 cup cocoa 1 pinch salt 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp vanilla 3/4 cup sugar 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Preheat the over to 350º. Rinse and drain beans. Combine all ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth and pour into a greased 8 x 8 dish. Bake for about 30 minutes. Serve with fruit and whipping cream for full enjoyment!
Kale Chips 1 bunch of kale 1 Tbsp olive oil A pinch of chunky kosher salt Preheat oven to 300º. Cut or tear kale into chip-sized pieces. Remove the stems, if desired. Toss in a bowl with olive oil to coat all pieces. Lay flat on an ungreased baking sheet and sprinkle with salt. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, but check after 15 minutes because ovens vary. You want the chips to be crispy, but not browned. Remove when ready and enjoy!
Moms with Cameras:
Perfection in the Imperfect By Sara Schriener, Life Unfolding Photography year old boy and the papers scattered hen you pick up your camera, over the floor were a book. are you creating fine art or are you creating a documentary? Picking up the sheets, I realized how This question resonates deeply with more many times my daughter had re-worked each page; how much effort had been than just the photographer in me. put into its creation. In the very first I am not a fine art photographer. I see perfection in denim wet up to knees be- paragraph the mom tells the boy to do cause a three year old couldn’t resist the his crafts somewhere else because he’s water or a child standing proudly beside making a mess. the uneven lines on the wall marking their I realized that I had forgotten to have fun with my kids. I was so wrapped up growth - marking growth away from us. Moms get caught up by laundry piles, worrying about my overfilled schedule and angry that the kids had tracked mud unswept front entries and the fear of an in the house that I forgot that the very unexpected guest who we naively think will like us better if we present our lives kids making the mess were more important than the mess itself. like a piece of fine art. I put the pages down and called to my While we are caught up, we forget the marks on the wall and the memories that kids that we needed to make a mess; a those passing marks could be filled with. memory to go with those rising marks on Last night I took a long frustrated look our wall that they wouldn’t forget; a mess that would look nothing like fine art when around my house covered with spilled it was printed and hung on our wall but Lego and mess that had reappeared would be something much better: genuas quickly as I cleaned it. I took some ine laughter and connection. We didn’t deep breathes and, pushing the frustration aside, really looked. The Lego was a stop to comb our hair. I didn’t change out house built from the imagination of a five of my pj’s. We didn’t stop to tidy up the
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Advertising Feature
Photo: Erica Bouwmeester, Moms with Cameras student neighbour’s yard. I handed my husband the camera and said “document this: how perfect we are in our imperfection.” Life Unfolding’s full sessions are booked until January of 2013. However, we want to help send some awesome kids living with Type 1 Diabetes to summer camp. We will be offering mini-sessions between August 13th and 17th. For $75.00 you will receive 10 high resolution images and be a part of sending some great kids to a place where everybody else is just like them! Contact Sara at photographer@lifeunfolding.ca.
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Dear Aunty...
Answering questions about you and your child’s health
O
ne of the (many) reasons my family absolutely loves Kamloops is the seemingly endless supply of things to do - particularly outside. I do try to get the kids out of the house daily throughout the year (although I think they know I’m lying when I say, “Oh, you won’t even notice it’s minus 15 once we start building the snow fort!”) but I have to tell you, at this time of the year, I can barely keep them inside for meals. And what’s not to love? The trees are green, the flowers smell beautiful and we’re lucky enough to wake up every day in one of the sunniest, driest spots in Canada. However, as you’ve likely noticed, we humans aren’t the only creatures who love the mountains, grasslands, forests, creeks and valleys around town. We share our semi-arid ecosystem with a few critters most of us would prefer to never encounter, like black widow spiders, infectious ticks, and venomous rattlesnakes. Dr. Jennifer Oakes, Emergency Physician and Medical Toxicologist at Royal Inland Hospital, was kind enough to spend a bit of time with me, helping to clear up some common myths about our little stinging neighbors, and what to do if you or your child is bitten.
Black Widow Spiders
There are five species of black widow spiders in North America. The species found in British Columbia is the western black widow spider and they do live around the entire Southern Interior. This spider is distinctive due to the red hour-glass shape on its torso. There are spiders that look almost identical to black widows, but lack the red hour-glass. These are called “False Black Widows” and they are not harmful. Black widow spider venom is potentially dangerous to humans but these spiders are not aggressive and bites to humans are exceedingly rare, even in places where widow spiders are abundant. Black widows prefer dark, dry places, so you will often see them hiding in garages (at our house they have been spotted in the basement).
Dr. Oakes notes that, “it seems that the venom of the widows in this region is generally not as potent as their southern relatives. The venom acts on the muscles and causes spasm and pain. This usually can be easily treated in hospital. The symptoms usually last a day or so, occasionally longer. Small children are more likely to have more severe effects just because of their size. If a child is bitten and complains of belly pain or leg pain (the abdominal and thigh muscles are often affected first), then they should be seen by a doctor. Black widow bites often don’t cause any local symptoms, so even if you don’t see a red, swollen spot, it doesn’t mean that a bite didn’t occur.” Dr. Oakes also notes that many people go to the Emergency Department with “spider bites” that actually turn out to be something different: often these painful, swollen spots are not bites from spiders or any other insect, rather they are skin abscesses caused by a bacteria called MRSA. Regardless of whether a spider caused the “bite” or not, Dr. Oakes advises that folks with skin abscesses should still be seen by a doctor who may need to drain the infection and possibly prescribe antibiotics.
Ticks
Around the mommy-circles in town, I occasionally will hear talk about an apparent increase in Lyme disease. The truth is, Lyme disease actually remains quite uncommon. It is true that Lyme is caused by ticks, but not all ticks cause Lyme. There are generally two sizes of ticks that one will see around Kamloops: big ones (size of a dime) that do not carry Lyme, and small ones (size of a sesame seed, one called “Deer tick,” the other called “western blacklegged tick”) that can, rarely, carry the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. How rarely? The BC Centre for Disease Control says that only about 1% of those ticks are infected with the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. Dr. Oakes clarifies: “This means that to become infected, you would first have to be bitten by that 1 out of 100 ticks that is actually infected with the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, and that the tick has to feed for at least 24 hours.” So, while most ticks do not cause disease, some do, and left untreated, Lyme disease can be serious. Dr. Oakes notes that it is important to take precautions (covering your skin when going on hikes) and check for ticks every time you come in from the outdoors, (especially the groin, armpits and the hairline of the scalp) and remove as soon as possible.
To Remove a Tick:
1. Use tweezers or forceps to gently get a hold of the tick as close to the skin as possible. Don’t touch the tick with your hands. 2. Without squeezing the tick, steadily lift it straight off the skin. Avoid jerking it out. Try to make sure that all of the tick is removed. 3. Once the tick has been removed, clean the bite area with soap and water then disinfect the wound with antiseptic cream. Wash hands with soap and water.
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If possible, save the tick in a container with a tight fitting top. If the tick is alive, dampen a small cotton ball and put it into the container to keep the tick alive. (A live tick is necessary for culturing the bacteria that causes Lyme disease.) Label the container with date shipped, name and address of person bitten or what type of animal the tick was from, what part of the body was bitten, and what part of the province the tick probably came from. Also include the name and address of your family physician and send to the Centre for Disease Control. Ask your doctor for further advice. Dr. Oakes describes how Lyme disease can cause a flu-like illness including fever and body aches. She notes that usually, within a week to 10 days, “a typical rash shows up. It is a red ring, can be big or small, and doesn’t need to be anywhere near where the tick was, it can occur anywhere on the body. Lyme needs to be treated with 3-4 weeks of antibiotics.” Dr. Oakes also notes that travellers to the Eastern seaboard of Canada or the US should be extra cautious as “the occurrence of Lyme disease is much, much higher there.”
says Dr. Oakes,“They are usually not particularly aggressive. If encountered in the wild, back away, don’t approach the snake. If bitten, the best thing to do is to immediately remove any rings/ watches and immobilize the limb in a splint; a couple of sticks with a bandage wrapped around will do. The most important things to remember are: DO NOT TRY TO SUCK ANY VENOM OUT OF THE WOUND! You won’t get any out and you are just delaying treatment. DO NOT PLACE A TOURNIQUET OR ANYTHING TIGHT AROUND THE LIMB as this just causes increased injury at the bite site. Seek medical care at the emergency room - do not go home and wait for swelling to begin. Remember, the bite will often cause significant swelling and bruising at the bite sight, but death from rattlesnake bite is extremely rare. The venom can cause bleeding and clotting Rattlesnakes We do have two types of rattlesnakes in our area: the Western problems, which can be severe. It is important to be seen as quickly as possible at the hospital for monitoring and lab tests. Rattlesnake is the most venomous snake found in British CoRoyal Inland Hospital has anti-venom in stock and can give it to lumbia. In BC, this rattlesnake occurs in the Thompson-Okanyou to reverse these effects from the venom. It is also important agan Interior and has been recorded east along the Canada/ to note that baby rattlesnakes are just as venomous as adults, USA border to Christina Lake, west to Lillooet and north to so you should never try to handle them.” Kamloops and Cache Creek. “Aunty” Erin Mitchell is a proud nurse, momma, and owner of Western Rattlesnakes spend much of their time under or Aunty’s House Registered Family Daycare. She is currently worknear cover such as rocks, fallen trees and man-made objects ing on a degree in child and adolescent psychology through TRU. such as boards and concrete structures. As a toxicologist, Dr. Oakes is the go-to expert at Royal Inland Hospital for rattlesnake bites, and has some excellent advice. “Rattlesnakes will bite out of fear and to protect themselves,”
Do you have a question for ‘Aunty’ Erin? Contact her at cdnnurse1995@yahoo.ca.
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Bringing Kamloops’ Sexy Back... One Momma at a Time: Tasha Ackerman
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e asked what dress you would love to wear one more time. Here’s what our winning momma, Tasha, had to say: “I have a dress I would love to wear again! It’s my electric royal blue graduation dress! Growing up, I battled my weight everyday and endured countless hours of self doubt and bullying over my appearance. I am now a comfortable, confident, 20 lbs lighter woman who is dying to prove to all those girls out there that it really doesn’t matter what anybody says or thinks, we are all beautiful! Please let me wear this dress again and revisit my high school days as a woman with 20 lbs more of self worth!!”
Want to WIN your sexy back?
We’re giving away a photo shoot, complete with hair and makeup, to one lucky momma. Check out www.kamloopsmomma.com for all the details! Deadline for entries is June 17, 2012!
Thanks so much to our fantastic sponsors: *Kathleen Ferguson Photography (photos)
www.kathleenfergusonphotography.ca
250.574.2225
*Evie Beauty (make-up)
www.eviebeauty.com
250.819.0234
*Ailsa Ainscow, Ra Hair Studio (hair) www.rahairstudio.com
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250.372.8746
Notes from a Boho Momma By Amanda Barker
S
ummer greetings! I am really excited that summer has finally arrived as our family is already filling the season with weddings, camping trips and scheduled ‘do nothing’ weeks. But one thing always seems to haunt me at this time of year…my dreaded seasonal allergies. After my second child was born, my immune system got really confused and decided that ragweed and grass pollens were akin to anthrax. I used to have bouts of 15 sneezes in a row…a very dangerous scenario whilst driving with children! I tried various herbal remedies and, at times, had resorted to over the counter allergy meds, but since I have been breastfeeding or pregnant for about 11 years now, I have been very limited with what I have been able to take. If you have an over the counter plan of attack that works for you, great, but for those who would like to avoid medications (and the side effects that come with them), I have a list of some tried and true remedies that I have found to work for me.* Local honey – Yes, it has to be local as it has minute amounts of the allergens you are allergic to. This will create a homeopathic like treatment.
Avoid allergens – Sounds obvious, but avoiding foods you are slightly allergic to will help to lower the inflammation in your body, and your reactions to the pollen outside won’t be as dramatic. Quercetin – A bioflavonoid that helps stabilize the mast cells and prevents them from releasing histamine. The recommended dose is up to 1000 mg per day, divided up and taken every few hours. Stinging Nettle – This is a natural antihistamine without the side effects. The easiest form to take is probably the extract in capsules. Taking about 300 mg per day will provide some relief. Omega 3’s – However you choose to source yours, be it fish, flaxseed oil, or grass fed meats and eggs, make sure to eat plenty as they are crucial in lowering inflammation (and reducing your reactions). Vitamin C – There have been many reports of people actually curing their allergies with vitamin C. Vitamin C makes the immune system more efficient, going after real threats instead of Ragweed dressed up as Darth Vader. I plan to be enjoying my summer sneeze free and I hope the same for you! * Consult with a health care professional for more information on the effects and benefits of these remedies. Amanda Barker is a herbalist, doula, CBE, and owner of Ovio Organico skin care and Boho Birth. abarker@gmail.com.
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A Letter to My Beautiful Little Kylee: This is Your Story
By Bev Rogers
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ou were born February 14, 2012. I had pictured this day and hoped to have an unmedicated normal vaginal delivery. But, being a labour and delivery nurse, I went postdates, was induced, did not progress past 3 cm and had to have a c-section. I hated the fact that I would not get the immediate skin-to-skin bonding time with you and that I would not see you for probably an hour after they took you to the intensive care nursery. The recovery room nurse said they were not going to be able to bring you up to see me, so I called the Intensive Care Nursery (ICN) and the nurse said you were having some trouble breathing but that you were okay. Just seconds after I got off the phone I heard an overhead page that called RT STAT to ICN and my heart sank; as much as the recovery room nurse tried to assure me that there were many babies in the ICN, I knew it was for you. I only got to hold you for a few moments after you were born and then you were taken to the ICN with Daddy. You were born at 7:49 pm and I was not able to see you until 5:30 am. It was so hard to see you with all those tubes.
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You had Bilateral Choanal Atresia, which meant both your nasal passageways were completely blocked by membranous tissue. Because babies are solely nose breathers unless they cry, you were unable to breathe. You were intubated within two hours of life and were transferred to BC Children’s Hospital the following day. In the morning I was told that the infant transfer team may not be comfortable taking me with you as I was only one day post-op: that was my first meltdown. Thankfully, my doctors made it so I was able to go with you and we were air-transferred to BCCH on February 15th at 2 pm. That night I got to really hold you in my arms for the first time. It took a nurse and a respiratory therapist to manoeuvre all the tubes so I could hold you, yet it was the most amazing experience. You were so sedated from the morphine they gave you for the transfer but when the nurse put you in my arms, you opened your eyes and stared into my eyes for just a few seconds. Then I felt your body completely relax. It was so incredible - you knew it was me and that we were there with you. That night you had your very first
breast milk given to you by Daddy through a tube into your stomach. You were so mucousy from the intubation and your blocked nasal passageways that you didn’t tolerate it. They started TPN (a drip used for patients who cannot get nutrition by eating) the next day, which was extremely hard on your little veins. They were able to start feeding you again on the 17th. You tolerated it well and they were able to increase and continue your feeds. The first few days we were at the hospital was filled with unanswered questions and many tests. We were anxiously waiting for the ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) surgeons to come and talk to us, answer our questions, and let us know when your surgery would be. They were supposed to come on the Friday and never did.. For the first time in my life I truly hated the fact that it was the weekend. But on Sunday the 19th the ENT resident came asked the pediatrician if it would be okay if they did your surgery the following afternoon. We finally got some of our questions answered and were absolutely elated! No more useless days waiting around being told that you are not priority because you are stable being intubated.
4 month old Kylee has had multiple surgeries in her short life, but through it all, she keeps smiling! The next day I was getting ready to come see you and the ICN called to say there was an opening in the OR and you were called, so if I wanted to see you I should come now; it was 10 am. I basically ran! Me, Daddy and both grandma’s were there to see them take you into the operating room and very anxiously waited for you to get out of surgery. It was absolutely the worst hour and a half of my life, but the surgeon finally came out and said everything went well! We now had to wait longer to see you until they were ready for us to come into the ICN. When we saw you, you were quite pale, even though they said you lost minimal blood, and you were now intubated in your nose, which appeared much more comfortable for you. They had kept you on morphine to keep you from pulling on the intubation tubes and they had to wrap gauze around your wrists to restrain you as you still wanted it out! You were supposed to be extubated the following day, but they did not feel you were ready - they said for sure the next day. When we arrived to the hospital, we had hoped you would already be extubated, unfortunately you were not. Turns out you had a fever and they wanted to do a septic workup which included blood work, urine and a lumbar puncture (LP), which terrified me. I left crying and needed some time with Daddy. The pediatrician told me that they were quite easy to do on babies. When we returned to see you after the procedure was done, the nurse told us that they were not able to get enough cerebralspinal (CSF) fluid but they sent it anyway. The pediatrician came to talk to us almost in tears and said Kylee’s lumbar puncture (LP) was the most difficult one she had ever done and most of the sample was contaminated with blood. The next day you had a big reddened area with a bump at the end of your forearm. Mommy asked the nurse about it. You had cellulitis; an infection from all the IV pokes you had. The blood culture and
the LP both came back positive, but they were unsure if the LP was truly positive or if it was the blood that was making it positive. You were put on antibiotics when you had the fever. On February 24th, I walked into the ICN and there were 6 people standing at your bedside. My heart sank. As I walked over to you one of them looked at me and said, “We took her tubes out!”
the OR again to fix it. They took you in an hour and a half later. The stents were now placed in a very difficult position where we actually had to push your nose up to suction them; such a difficult position that no one could get the suction catheter in the stent except me. On April 2nd, we were able to take you home again. We had to get an at home suction kit and suction you every time
“I only got to hold you for a few moments after you were born and then you were taken to the ICN with Daddy.” It was so exciting! Now Mommy and Daddy could hold you whenever we wanted. In 9 days, I had only held you 6 times; I think daddy only held you 4 times. It was horrible only being able to touch you through the incubator holes. Later on that afternoon they wanted to do another blood culture and another lumbar puncture, thankfully they both came back negative. They continued the antibiotics for 7 more days, ending on March 2nd. We were so excited when your IV finally got to come out. You probably had 25 IV pokes and 12 IV’s in 17 days. On March 6th, Grandma’s birthday, we finally got to take you home! 3 weeks old and it was your very first time being outside and your very first car ride all the way home! We were told that there was a 50% chance that the membrane could grow back at some point in your life. It could be a few weeks or years down the road. Well, you are a very fast healer and it almost completely grew back within three wonderful weeks of being at home. On March 26th, you were intubated once again and we were air-transferred back to BCCH. Things happened much quicker this time. We got there at 1 am on the 27th and you went in for surgery at 5:30 am. This time you came back with stents in place (tubes in your nasal passageways). They were protruding out your nose. Three days after your surgery the ENT noticed one of the stents was pushing up on your nose and you had to go back to
before you ate: you hated it! But if your stents became blocked, you would not be able to breath, so it had to be done. It was horrible and we could not wait to take you back and have them removed. On April 24th, after 4 weeks of suctioning, you went back to the OR once again and had the stents out! Life at home is absolutely wonderful and your breathing has never been better. And, despite everything, you are such a happy smiley baby!
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Community Resource Directory Birthday Parties & Events
Family Resources
* See Birthday Party Directory on P. 19
Big Brothers and Sisters
XFest 2012
821 Seymour St 250.374.6134
Let’s Move Studio
Yoga - Dance - Wellness letsmove@gmail.com 250.372.9642 www.letsmovestudio.com
Kamloops’ favourite outdoor theatre festival feat. Romeo and Juliet and James and the Giant Peach, Prince Charles Park July 18th - Aug 11 www.kamloopslive.ca www.projectxtheatre.com
Interior Community Services
Sun Peaks Resort
1.888.603.9100
Workshops, workbooks, personal coaching with a creative twist. Janet L. Whitehead, certified professional coach janet@musingsandmud.com 250.376.8402 www.musingsandmud.com
Food and Beverage
Home-based Sales and Services
Nature’s Fare Markets
Body by Vi Challenge
Family festivals all summer long! 1 800 807 3257 www.SunPeaksResort.com
Childcare and Preschool Kamloops Child Development Society Safe and inclusive child care and
early learning programs www.cdckamloops.com 250.376.2233
250.554.3134
Ministry of Children & Family Services 250.371.3600 Parent Helpline
Organic and Natural Foods Grocer 5-1350 Summit Drive 250.314.9560 www.naturesfare.com
Sweet Home Cafe
Cafe with a staffed kids play area 1380 Hillside Dr 778.471.5579 Kamloops Kidz Early Learning Centre www.sweethomecafeforyou.com Montessori enhanced programming for Health & Wellness ages 0-12 250.319.9044
River City Gymnastics
Aina Massage Spa
Massage therapy and aesthetics using Gymnastics and mutli-sport facility 778.471.5767 www.rivercitygymnastics.ca organic and natural products 250.319.4111 www.ainaspa.ca
Children’s Retail
Lizzie Bits Baby Co.
Cloth diapers, unique children’s items, high quality children’s consignment 205-450 Lansdowne 250.374.8706 www.lizziebaby.ca
Mulberry Bush
Gently Loved Consignment & New Items 1304 Battle St. 250.374.2501 www3.telus.net/mulberrybush
The Enchanted Teacup
Princess/fairy/character hostess, Dressup theme parties, fun retail, tea retail 410 Tranquille Road 250.376.8327 www.enchantedteacup.com
Tumbleweed Toys
Safe, Sustainable & Inspired toys, games, puzzles and more. Sahali Mall 250.372.3500 www.TumbleweedToys.ca
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Body by Vi Challenge
Make a healthier change in your life Rosie & Dan Worsfold 250.574.6029 www.ahealthierkamloops.com
Dr. Steve Meredith Inc. MD.FRCSC.
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Offering plastic, reconstructive, and cosmetic surgery 778.471.5979 300-546 St. Paul Street
Musings and Mud Coaching Studio
Transform your body, save money, and win prizes Jenn Harbaruk 250.572.1717 http://jennharbaruk.myvi.net
Bunches ‘n Bundles
Custom gift packages for all occasions featuring items from small local companies 250.318.5368 bunchesandbundles@gmail.com
Delish Naturals
Organic & natural body care for the whole family. www.delishnaturals.com
Karla Weiss, Independent Consultant The Pampered Chef Products to help you cook and entertain affordably 250.682.4435 anjel@shaw.ca www.pamperchef.biz/karlaweiss
Latasia, Rox-ann Haines
Fashion jewellery, special occasion accessories, sleepwear and loungewear 250.574.4233 inkedroxstarr@shaw.ca www.mylatasia.ca/rox-annhaines
McSew Glover’s Medicine Centre Pharmacy Seamstress & Fibre Artist specializing in Your Compounding Specialists 10-1380 Summit Drive 250.851.3131 www.medicinecentre.com
sleepsacks, felting, knitting, & alterations 250.828.2309 McKnit@hotmail.com
Fit By Design
Omega-3 superfood, gluten-free, high in fiber, protein and antioxidants Val Butterfield, Independent Distributor 250.554.8203 milaval77@gmail.com
Family Friendly Fitness 250.819.0822 www.kamloopsfitbydesign.com
Mila by Lifemax
Community Resource Directory Moms Helping Moms – work from home
Perfect opportunity for moms and others www.lookaround.ca choiceofwellness@gmail.com
Music
StrongStart Programs (during school year)
Bumblebees
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, 8:30-11:30 Wed, 12-2:30 Arthur Hatton Elem. 315 Chestnut Ave., 250.376.7217
Milk & Honey Photography
Lisa DiGeso milkandhoney@mail.com www.milkandhoneyphotography.ca
Real Estate and Investments Chelsea Mann, Realtor
Kamloops Symphony Music School
Dragon Flies
Group classes and private instruction for all ages and levels. 250.372.5000 Station Plaza #3-510 Lorne St.
Mon-Fri, 8:30-11:30 Marion Schilling Elem., 2200 Park Dr. 250.376.2027
Century 21 - Desert Hills Realty 250.571.6666 chelsea@chelseamann.ca www.kamloopshomes.net
Medical Services
Eagles’ Nest
Karen Lanoue
BC Nurse Line 1.866.215.4700 Royal Inland Hospital 250.374.5111 Walk-in Clinics: Northshore Treatment Centre
700 Tranquille Rd 250.554.4265
Summit Medical Clinic
Mon-Fri, 8:45-11:15 South Sahali Elem., 1585 Summit Dr. 250.374.2451
YMCA Child Interactive Centre Mon-Fri 9-12 Southwest Y/CCRR Unit E, 1420 Hugh Allan Dr 250-372-7791
Canadian Scholarship Trust Boost your post-secondary education savings by $7200 karen.lanoue@cstresp.com 250.573.2299
Ken Featherstone, Realtor
Royal LePage Westwin Realty Personal Real Estate Corp. 250.374.1461 kenfeathetone@royallepage.ca
5 - 1380 Summit Drive 250.374.9800
Prenatal and Postpartum Care
Kamloops Urgent Care Clinic
Birth Matters - Jodi Anderson
Nicole Crichton, Mortgage Consultant
Boho Birth
Summer Camps
#4 - 910 Columbia Street 250-371-4905 Doula and Childbirth Educator birthmatters.doula.prenatal@gmail.com Online Resources 250.372.3733 250.819.2099
Access Kamloops
A regularly updated directory connectDoula services & prenatal education ing people with a variety of not-for-profit Amanda Barker 250.376.8331 resources. www.accesskamloops.org bohobirth@gmail.com
KamloopsParents.com
The online resource to all things familyfriendly in Kamloops. www.kamloopsparents.com elizabeth@kamloopsparents.com
MakeChildrenFirst.ca
Map of Family & Breastfeeding-friendly businesses in Kamloops 250.554.3134 www.makechildrenfirst.ca
Parent-Child Groups Attachment Parenting
2/month - days and locations vary 250-376-4723
Family Tree Drop-in
Mon and Wed 9-4 283 West Victoria St. 250.377.6890
Healthy Beginnings
Tues 9:45-11:45 / Thurs 10:30-12:30 Interior Indian Friendship Society 2355 Parkcrest Ave. 250.554.3134
Kamloops Connexions
Fri 9:30-11:30, 700 Hugh Allen Drive S.W. Community Church 250.828.1114 coffee-connexions@hotmail.com
Kamloops Wiggles and Giggles Adoption Playgroup
Monthly, Deanna, jones_A@telus.net
Next Steps
Fri, 1-2:20, Kamloops Public Health Unit 519 Columbia St. 250.851.7300
Breastfeeding Centre
Drop in breastfeeding info and help Downtown Health Centre Lansdowne Mall 250-851-7300 Mon 1- 4, Thurs 9 - 12
Mighty Oak Midwifery Personal,
professional, woman-centered maternity care. 250.377.8611 www.mightyoakmidwifery.ca
Tiny Blessings Prenatal
Prenatal education focusing on late pregnancy, labor & delivery, breastfeeding, & newborn care. 250-819-0510 www.tinyblessingsprenatal.com
Welcome to the Babyhood
Your resource for child passenger safety and cloth diaper education. Jennifer Harbaruk 250.572.1717 www.welcometothebabyhood.com
Photography Captured Memories Photography
Children • Engagement • Family • Graduation • Maternity • Newborns • Weddings www.captured-memories.ca hrsayers@gmail.com 250.320.6558
Life Unfolding Photography
A mortgage that works for your family 250.319.9542 niccrichton@telus.net www.nicolecrichton.com
Academy of Dance
Dance, crafts, and outings for ages 3-8 July 23-27 250.314.9974 www.theacademyofdance.ca
Big Little Science Centre
BLSC teaches kids how fun science can be with Super Science and Robotics summer camps. 985 Holt Street 250.319.0689 www.blscs.org
Eureka!
Week long science summer camps Ages 7-14, July 3 - Aug 24 www.tru.ca/eureka 250.371.5534
Faction Skate & BMX Inc.
2500 sq. ft. indoor facility for bikes and skateboards offering summer camps, birthdays, clinics, drop-ins, and a retail store. 1314 Dalhousie Drive 250.374.2224 www.factionskatepark.com
Kamloops Classic Swimming
Summer swim camps Ages 5+, 2 sessions in July Canada Games Pool 250.828.3660 www.swimkamloops.com
Kamloops Museum and Archives
Day camps and workshops for kids this summer - dinosaurs, archaeology, the history of Kamloops, and more! 207 Seymour St. 250-828-3576
Photography for all your little wild things River City Gymnastics Moms with Camera’s facilitator Keep your kids moving all day with gymwww.lifeunfolding.ca nastics, sports, games, outings, and crafts. 778.471.5767 www.rivercitygymnastics.ca
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Community Events Calendar
presented by:
Visit www.KamloopsParents.com for a complete, up-to-date calendar of family-friendly events! June 1: North Kamloops Library Family Storytime Friday 10:15 – 10:45am (free)
June 5/July 3: Mom’s Morning Out Mighty Oak Midwifery, 11am – 1pm
June 6 (Cont): Kamloops and June 1: Kamloops Library Family Storytime Sunday, 1 – Region Farmers’ Market (Wednesdays) 400 Block Vic1:30pm 250.374.8866 (free) June 1 – 3: Interior Wellness toria St 8am – 2pm Festival TRU (free)
June 1 – 25: BC Lions Training Camp Hillside Stadium June 2 (Cont): Kamloops and Region Farmers’ Market Sat 200 Block St. Paul St. 8am – 12pm
June 7 (Cont): Shambhala Meditation Thurs 7:00pm, 433b Lansdowne St. kamloopsshambhala.org 250.376.4224 June 7: North Kamloops Library After School Club Thursday 3 – 4pm (free)
Have an e vent? Tell us abo ut it and w e’ll put it in our Co mmunity E vents Calendar for FREE! info@kamlo opsmomm a.com Find us on Facebook !
June 15: Beaver Bonanza Kamloops Museum 2:30 – 3:30pm 250.828.3500
July 2 (Cont): Music in the Park (Nightly) Riverside Park 7 – 8:30pm
June 16: Father’s Day Events Kamloops Museum 10am and 1:30pm 250.828.3576
July 2(Cont): Spirit of Kamloops Canada Day Train Mon/Tues/Fri 7pm Sat 11am 250.374.2141
June 17: Father’s Day at the BC Wildlife Park BC Wildlife Park 9:30am – 5pm 250.573.3242
July 3: Toonie Day at Sun Peaks Sun Peaks 250.578.5542
June 18: Kamloops Infant and Pregnancy Loss Support Group 205-535 Tranquille Rd, 7 – 8:30pm 250.376.4646
July 5 – 7 (Cont): Children’s Theatre (Thurs to Sat) Riverside Park 1pm and 3pm
June 30: Jo’s Road Race Sun Peaks 9:45am 250.578.5542
Charity Golf Tournament Pineridge Golf Club 9am 250.819.2643
July 7: Kevin Costner & Modern West Sun Peaks 6pm June 20: Kamloops TimeraisJune 2 (Cont): Big Little Sci250.578.5442 er Cactus Jacks Saloon 7 – June 8 – 10: Kamloops Clasence Centre Thurs/Fri 3-5 pm, 10pm sics Swimming Competition July 12 – 15: Kamloops InterSat 10-4, 250.554.2572 Canada Games Aquatic Centre June 21/July 5: Cloth Diaper- national Baseball TournaJune 2 (Cont): Chapters Craft 250.828.3660 ment Norbrock Stadium ing 101 Lizzie Bits Baby Co and Storytime (Saturdays) 117–8pm 250.374.8706 (free) June 9 July 14: Home Depot July 12/26: Museum Guided 12pm 250.377.8468 (free) Kids Workshop 10am – 12pm June 23/24: Kids Free FishTour Kamloops Museum 12 – June 2 (Cont): Family Favou250.371.4300 (free) ing Day Johnson Lake Resort 1pm 250.828.3756 rites at the Cineplex Odeon 10am – 4pm 250.672.1008 June 9: Relay for Life RiverJuly 14: Kamloops Highland Saturdays, 11am, ($2.50) side Park 12pm – 12am Games Albert McGowan June 23: Kids Go Wild with June 2: Earth Run Riverside Park 7:30 – 3pm Bobs and Lolo BC WildJune 10: Gutsy Walk for Park 9am ($20) Crohns and Colitis McArthur life Park 9:30am – 5pm July 14: Introduction to ArJune 2: Race for Kids McArIsland Park 9am 250.376.4080 250.573.3242 chaeology Kamloops Museum thur Island Youth Centre 3pm June 24: Kids of Steel Triath- 10 – 11:30am 250.828.3756 June 10: Kamloops Young June 3: YMCA/YWCA Healthy lon Brock Arena 250.828.3500 July 14 – 25: Shuswap Lake Naturalist’s Club Rock Kids Day Downtown Y 10am – Hounding 250.573.3127 Festival of the Arts Sorrento June 24/July 29: Cloth Dia2pm (free) June 13: Kamloops Adoption pering 101 Lizzie Bits Baby Co Memorial Hall June 3: Kamloops Flying Support Group 396 Tranquille 1 – 2pm 250.374.8706 (free) July 21 – 22: Seek the Peaks Club for Kids Kamloops AirRd, 7 – 8pm 250.579.8950 Geocaching Sun Peaks June 24: Off-Road Racing port 11am – 1pm Whispering Pines Sport Com- 250.578.5442 June 14: Tim Hortons Free June 4 (Cont): North.KamPublic Skate Brock Arena 8 – plex 10:30am July 21: Tim Horton’s Free loops Lib Tiny Tunes Mon, 10pm Public Skate Brock Arena June 29 –July 1: Sun Peaks 10:15 – 10:45am Summer Opener and Canada 11am – 1pm Day Sun Peaks 250.578.5542 July 22: Bald Kids Rule
June 30: Little Warriors Workshop North Shore Community Centre 10am – 1pm 1.888.440.1343
July 24 – Aug 26: The Notorious Right Robert and his Robber Bride Caravan Farm Theatre 1.866.546.8533
July 1 (Cont): Sun Peaks and Region Farmer’s Market Sun July 28: Chrome on the Grass Show & Shine Prince Charles Peaks Village 250.578.5442 July 1: Canada Day Cultural Park 250.573.4321 Festival and Art in the Park Riverside Park 9am – 6pm, Fireworks until 11
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July 28 – 29: Wakeboard Provincial Championships Shumway Lake
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