June/July 2011
The free magazine
for local moms...and dads too!
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TIPS
For Taking Great Photos of Your Children New Feature:
Things We LOVE...
Summer Fun Guide
It’s Our First Birthday Celebration! New Look! New Features! New Fun! Kamloops Momma June/July 2011 1
A Bit of Reflection….
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ne year ago, I stood timidly at my Canada Day booth, gripping tightly to the first issue of Kamloops Momma. I was terrified. What if people didn’t like it? What if no one wanted it? What if I had to throw them away? Yes, in retrospect, I was just being silly. It’s shiny and free…not exactly a hard sell. But still, I had put so much into it. At the time I was growing a baby in my belly, but I felt like the magazine was my baby too. Imagine how you would feel if someone said they didn’t like your baby? And, I’ll admit, criticism and me aren’t best friends. Letter from a Well, I survived the debut and am happy to say that the Kamloops magazine has survived to see its first birthday. I guess you could say it’s done more than survive. Momma And it’s because of you: the readers - the parents, grandparents, caregivers, and community members that have embraced Kamloops Momma and helped to make it what it is today. To you I give my sincerest thanks. Of course, my family has had a little something to do with the magazine’s success too! - my daughters who continue to inspire me everyday; my sweet baby who has spent more than her share of time cozied up in my arms while I work on the computer; my not-so-little-anymore girl who plays ‘magazine seller’ on a daily basis; my husband, the self-proclaimed ‘Director of Distribution,’ who has mastered delivering the magazine to 30 places/hour while I still struggle to do more than 3; and my own momma, who I can always count on for advice, babysitting, and late night editing. I started Kamloops Momma with the intent of creating a local resource that would connect the parenting community and, through it, I have discovered what a truly amazing community we have. I have met remarkable people, heard extraordinary stories, and been honoured to share them with you. As we embark into our sophomore year, I am giddy with the possibilities. What stories will people share? Who will I meet? What kind of trouble will my girls get into next? Oh! I cant wait to see!
— Courtney Charlton, editor To share your ideas and comments, contact us at info@kamloopsmomma.com or find us at facebook.com/kamloopsmommamagazine.
On the Cover: Serena Hughes has a great time ‘smashing’ an enormous cupcake for her first birthday celebration. Photo by Lisa DiGeso of Milk & Honey Photography. Lisa's style is fun, whimsical, and upbeat. She loves to incorporate fun props, vintage chairs, cute hats and aims to make art that warms hearts! She is a natural light & studio photographer and photographs maternity, newborns and babies under 1.5 years of age. For more information, check out www.milkandhoneyphotography.ca.
Kamloops Momma June/July 2011 3
A Look Inside Kamloops Momma...
Brandon Dupuis, 3, and Kalem Dupuis, 2 months
Devyn Jordan, 2
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Doing the Dance
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The Momma Makeover Revealed
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Taking Great Pictures of Your Children
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Can I have a Gold Star? Pretty Please!
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The Mompreneur Minute
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The Blooming Garden
The art of balancing work and family
Danielle Campbell
Tips for capturing that perfect shot
Following a first-time mom from final trimester to 1st birthday
A look at local moms with businesses
A plant perfect party idea
15 The Summer Fun Guide
Jessie Boileau, 2
Riley, 3 and Kayla
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Prenatal Massage Therapy
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Moms with Cameras
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And the World Will Live as One
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The Little Moments
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Travels in Tuktoyaktak
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Music Education: Priceless
Good for you and for baby
Photo Feature
Visiting an inclusive childcare centre
A dad’s perspective
An educational adventure
Visiting an inclusive child care centre
Resources: Mia Hunter, 6 months
9 Things We Love
13 Birthday Party Directory
18 Community Business Directory 21 Dear Aunty 24 Get Connected
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 two months and available for free at businesses and organizations throughout our region. Readers can also download the magazine online and subscribe to have it delivered right to their door.
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Kamloops Momma Magazine Published by Courtney Charlton, Editor Contact: 778-472-0020 info@kamloopsmomma.com www.kamloopsmomma.com facebook.com/kamloopsmommamagazine 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.
Want Kamloops Momma delivered right to your door? Subscribe for just $20/year!
Doing the Dance: The art of balancing work and family
By Jennifer Howatt
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think I started babysitting before I was old enough to take the official babysitting course offered in the small, northern British Columbian community where I lived. I loved babies and kids of all ages, and apparently back in the 80’s, some parents were okay leaving their kids with a ten-year old. It was a pretty safe town, but I like to think that those parents knew I was mature and responsible even at a young age. Besides, they could obviously tell that I really cared about their kids. I was sad to leave ‘my kids’ when we finally moved to Kamloops in 1990, but I soon met new families and established new bonds with their children as well. I continued to babysit well into my early 20’s, when I finally got too busy with university, part-time jobs, friends and dating, and then a career and marriage. So, imagine my surprise when I discovered that, after having my first baby girl, Hayley, and commencing maternity leave, I missed my job. I missed my colleagues and clients. I missed the challenge of projects and deadlines. I loved Hayley, of course, but I sure struggled with the adjustment of being at home all the time. Not that I thought it would be the same as my previous babysitting experiences, but somehow I guess I thought that because I liked children so much, I would love being at home with my baby and dread the day when I would have to return to work. Instead, I found myself regularly checking my work email, stopping in for visits and sometimes (gasp) longing for my first day back on the job. Guilt began to settle in. When Hayley turned 1, I returned to work fulltime and she attended daycare. Although I missed my time at home with her – the spontaneous week-day activities and outings, the clean and organized home and, above all, being there for major milestones such as her first words and first steps – I was happy to be back at work. (I do realize that I am one of the lucky ones who loves her job.) Evenings, weekends, and holidays were precious family time now, but after a Sunday of coloring ten pictures and setting up ten dance parties, I was always secretly relieved to go back to work on Monday morning. Sigh… more guilt. Flash forward to present day and I again find myself at home on maternity leave with Hayley and her baby sister, Megan. Life is busier now with my 3-year old and 8-month old. (We’ve had four dance parties today already). I know it will get busier when I return to work and have to master the art of the “work/ life dance.” With only 4 months remaining in my maternity
leave, I try to appreciate being home fulltime with them now. I miss my job again, but “...imagine my surprise at least I’m not surprised by when I discovered that this time around and I guess I am beginning to get that after having my used to the guilt! I have begun to learn that first baby girl, Hayley, as a parent/mother, I will and commencing always feel guilty about something when it comes to maternity leave, I my children. My husband and I have both made the missed my job.” decision to work and place our children in daycare but I don’t feel guilty about that. In fact, our daycare is a fabulous centre with educated and caring staff who love children. There is no doubt in my mind that Hayley has benefited greatly in her education and social skills from attending daycare and I know Megan will too. I feel guilty for NOT wanting to stay at home with them fulltime. My mother and my mother-in-law were both stay-athome moms until the school years at least. Why don’t I want to do that? As I ponder that final question, I hear Hayley call to me to help her set up the fifth (and surely not the last!) dance party of the day. And I will hit ‘save’ on this article, close the laptop, go and help her set up the dance party, and learn to let go of a little bit of guilt.
Kamloops Momma June/July 2011 5
The Momma Makeover Revealed: Danielle Campbell
Danielle Campbell is the busy momma of 2 girls: Summer, 2, and Alyssa, 6 months. When she entered our Momma Makeover Contest, Danielle said, “I would love to win this contest to remind my husband and myself what it’s like to be an attractive woman again.” Well, we only have one thing to say: mission accomplished! Danielle received over $700 dollars in pampering and we think she looks like a million bucks!
Before
After
Thanks to our fantastic sponsors: Beauty Has Endless Possibilities www.shannon-lee.com 250.819.2988
Kathleen Ferguson Photography kate_ferguson@hotmail.ca 250-574-2225
Pure Evolution BioBio-Natural Salon 214-300 Columbia St. 778.471.5974
The Ruby Room 265 Victoria St. 250.828.RUBY 6 Kamloops Momma June/July 2011
Photo: Kathleen Ferguson Photography Hair: Pure Evolution Bio-Natural Salon Make-Up: Beauty Has Endless Possibilities Clothing: The Ruby Room
What Danielle says...
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I went for my facial two days before the big day. What a relaxing moment it was for me. My skin felt amazing after and to think the pampering wasn't over yet! “The next day I met with Shannon from the Ruby Room to find some clothes for the big day. She was wonderful! I had to resort to bringing my kids with me. Not only did she help me find some really cute outfits; she was a big help with my girls. Have you ever taken your kids to a clothing store to try on clothes? It’s almost impossible! While one is screaming, the other is running around getting into everything. I couldn't have done it without her. “I started my makeover day at 9am with Shannon from Beauty has Endless Possibilities. What an amazing woman! It was nice to connect with a woman who has children as well. “I then rushed over to Pure Evolution for my hair appointment. It was great! I met with Courtney, the publisher of the magazine, and Kathleen Ferguson while I was getting my hair done. The salon offered fresh fruit and coffee to us. It was wonderful, especially since it was a busy day and I didn't even think about food. “After my hair was transformed, Kathleen and I hit the road for the photo shoot. This was by far the best experience I had that day. What a talented and amazing photographer! She was able to capture angles that I didn't think were possible. We got into a really cool remote location that wasn't far from the salon. What an amazing day! I sure did miss my kids by the end of the day and it was great to get home and relax from relaxing. I would like to thank everyone who made this day possible.” Kamloops Momma June/July 2011 7
Tips for Taking Great Photos of Your Children “Kids are only young once and we can’t remember every moment, so capture it with a photograph!”
Kelly captures a quiet moment of her kids, Wesley, 3, and Zoe, 1. By Kelly Tuohey
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’d never really thought much about taking great photos before my first child was born. But, as many new parents know, children are often the inspiration for a lifelong love of photography. I took hundreds of photos of my son when he was born and then thousands when my daughter came along! I want to share with you some great tips I’ve acquired over the years that hopefully will help you to capture all your treasured, hilarious, beautiful, you-just-had-to-be-there moments!
photos distort kids out of perspective, giving them big heads and little bodies and result in mundane, everyday snapshots. Getting down on their level means you may have to lay on your belly in the grass or crawl on your elbows and knees for a bit. You’ll get dirty, but you’ll also get the image you were looking for!
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Watch your background – This is applicable to taking anyone’s photo and it is easier said than done. As humans we tend to focus on what’s immediately calling our attention – Get down on their level – This is probably the most im- our kids, and forget to look behind at the scenery (garbage on the ground, light post coming out of their head, person walkportant tip I have to share. So many photos of kids are taken from an adult’s perspective and not your child’s. These ing through the scene). Sometimes all it takes is two extra se-
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conds to wait for a clear background or just two steps to the left to move the tree into a more appropriate position, to turn a “this would’ve been a great photo except for...” photo into a “Wow, you really nailed that expression! Can you send me a copy?” photo. Let them be kids – “Bobby – smile! Bobby, look over here. Bobby, hey Bobby, hellllooo? HEY! Look HERE!” Unfortunately, I’ve totally done this and it rarely results in a great smile, or image for that matter. My son now automatically says cheese when I pull the camera out and won’t even look up from what he’s doing. A better approach is to just photograph them as they are, even if they aren’t looking at the camera. Sometimes you’ll end up catching a moment of total absorption, a much better image than if you had coaxed them to smile and pose for the camera. Carry your camera everywhere – You can’t take a great picture if you don’t have your camera! I make a habit of always throwing my camera in my purse so it’s always ready for me to grab. My phone takes okay photos, but the quality just isn’t the same as my digital camera. There’s nothing worse than going, “Oh, I wish I had my camera!” Explore your camera – Even with today’s basic point and shoot cameras, there are many options for you to explore. Move out of “P” or “Auto” mode (the green square) – explore Macro, Portrait, Action. Read up online about what your camera can do; you’ll be surprised at how versatile a point and shoot is. And if you have a DSLR, watch out! These cameras can result in really stunning photos....when you learn your camera, you’ll begin to take great photos on purpose, instead of by accident. Introduce a prop – Sometimes the prop makes us reach for the camera. Other times the camera makes us reach for a prop. Kids tend to stay in one spot more if you give them something to look at or hold onto. For babies and young kids, bubbles are amazing. For really young ones, tickling with a feather works wonders. Kids will often feel more comfortable if they can hold a block, a truck, a doll, a stuffy (especially their own), and this will result in candid and real expressions that photograph wonderfully! Stop centering on your kids! - Learn some basic rules of composition: the rule of thirds! When you look at your LCD screen on the back of your camera, there may be a 3x3 grid overlaid on your image. This is to help you take better photos. Try lining your child up on one of the vertical lines or, if zoomed in, putting an intersection of lines over their eye. Photos broken into thirds are more visually appealing. Start paying attention to children’s ads in magazines, or notice when a photo really grabs you. Where is the subject placed? Where are his eyes? Where are his hands? You’ll begin to see the rule of thirds everywhere. Use it to create some of your own amazing photos! I hope this inspires you to pick up your camera and get out and shoot some amazing photos of your children. Kids are only young once and we can’t remember every moment, so capture it with a photograph! Kelly Tuohey operates Butterbutter photography. Her emphasis is on colour and fun with a fresh approach to newborn and family photography...capturing the way you see them in your heart! www.bbphotography.ca.
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Things We LOVE... We’ve tried it and we love it and we don’t want to live without it!
For wee ones:
Swimmi Diaper by Bummis
Why do we love it? Let’s face it: buying disposable swim diapers feels like throwing money away. Put ‘em on and a half hour later they’re in the garbage. And most of us know from experience that using regular disposables in water isn’t exactly a great idea! Swimmi diapers are an excellent alternative. They are adjustable, comfortable, eco and wallet-friendly, and get the job done...and did we mention that they are darn cute? $14, Lizzie Bits Baby Co.
For the whole family:
Bite Me Not! Outdoor Spray by Delish Naturals
Why do we love it? The rules with bug sprays seem to be ever changing, especially when it comes to using them on kids. But one thing stays the same: we don’t like bug bites and our kids certainly don’t either. Bite Me Not! is a pure essential oil spray that keeps the bugs away and is safe for children ages 6 months and up, plus it smells great and is handmade locally by Krystal Clark, owner of Delish Naturals. $12.99, www.delishnaturals.com
For the Mommas:
Pure Package at Spa Pure
Why do we love it? 3 hours of kid-free, mommaonly pampering for under $100...do we really need to say more? Well, we will. Three HOURS! A massage, facial, manicure and pedicure. We think the Pure Package will make you a better momma. Really! You’ll leave relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on whatever parenting throws your way. $95, Spa Pure Kamloops Momma June/July 2011 9
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Following a first-time mom’s journey from the final trimester to baby's 1st birthday
Can I Have a Gold Star? Pretty Please! By Erin Brûlé
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his just in...being a mom is hard. Don't get me wrong, I also think it's a LOT of fun, and really rewarding, but man...it's not easy! There is no guidebook. Actually, that's not true. There are LOTS of guidebooks – and every one of them has a conflicting opinion (of course, most are written in the tone that they are not 'opinions' but rather, facts). I find myself calling my mom quite often. After all, she raised me...and I turned out (mostly) well- adjusted, so I figure she must know a thing or two. But, alas, all she will say is, “You will figure out what is right for your family.” Sigh. And, so back to the books I go. And to Facebook to solicit advice from other moms – which can get pretty comical, if you have friends with completely different parenting styles… which I do. Take this question for example... “Help! Rya wants to be social and is resisting being in her crib alone. How long should I ‘wait out’ the crying?” Answers... • As long as it takes. She needs consistency. • 30 minutes. • We started at 5 minutes, then worked up to 10, 15, 20 and so on. • 1 hour. • WHAT? You let her cry it out? Oh...tsk....tsk...I wouldn't do that, the studies say that can negatively impact their development. • WHAT? You went to her when she was crying? Oh...tsk...tsk...I wouldn't do that, the studies say that can negatively impact their development. And so on...generally leaving me more confused than ever, which makes my mom's advice seem pretty damn good... “I'll figure it out.” I am now 9 months into this alien journey of motherhood, and while there are HEAPS of things I haven't figured out, here are a few things I have...
Things I’ve Learned I ever thought holding more love than of e bl pa ca is t ar he - My humanly possible lifted by a tiny grin be n ca d oo m e tir en sharp! - My p…like, crazy razor y ba- Baby teeth are shar those mothers that uses spit to clean m of - I have become one was by’s face as I once thought it am doing it wrong. y ar ss ce ne as ’t isn p - Slee ying I do, there’s a book sa books! - No matter what I g I am doing it right. To hell with the melts yin There’s also a book sa ’s face light up when I walk into the room - Watching my baby time. conds e. my heart. Every. singl ewhere at a certain time, without fail, se - If I need to be som door, I'll have to deal with a blowout. e before walking out th - I crave gold stars.
9 month old Rya isn’t quite sure if her mom should get a gold star! Photo: Erin Brûlé Gold stars? Yes...metaphorically anyway. I recently read The Happiness Project. In it, the author, Gretchen Rubin, talks about her desire for getting 'gold stars' for her efforts. Nothing over the top, just a few words of recognition from her spouse saying, “Yes...what you just did is awesome!” “YOU are awesome.” This comment really resonated with me. I want gold stars too. What us moms do is hard work. And, it's my very biased opinion that us mommies don't get NEARLY the number of gold stars that we deserve. We frickin' rock! Seriously. So, give a mommy you know a gold star. Give YOURSELF a gold star! (Note: after last issue's 'Oranges in Tubesocks' I am sad to report that an ALARMING number of veteran mommies told me this was NO myth...I also heard post-baby boobs described as 'fried eggs' 'pancakes' or 'fried eggs on pancakes.' Damn. We deserve 10 gold stars for giving up our perky sisters!) To catch updates as Erin navigates the alien world of parenthood, and to share your stories, tidbits and advice, check loopymama.ca.
Kamloops Momma June/July 2011 11
The Blooming Garden: A plant perfect party idea By Candace Walker and Andrea Lougheed
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he sun is shining (okay not every day yet) and the bulbs are blooming (well, in most parts of Kamloops) and your summer baby is turning one year older. Need a party idea that’s a little different…why not plan a green thumb birthday party to help welcome in the warmer weather and teach them a little about botany? This party idea can be a wonderful experience for children by letting them get a little or a lot dirty and have some hands on fun exploring Mother Nature. This party can easily be designed to accommodate children Jadyn, age 5, holds an earth buddies from Wild About Party of all ages and works well for boy and Packs’ “Blooming Garden Party” girl guests. Invitations can be done as easily as a loot bag. Photo: Candace Walker. packet of seeds with the details written on the back with a permanent marker or attached to a card in the shape of a flower. As a fun variation, tie an apple a recipe card to the stem of an apple with the party details on one side and your favourite apple recipe on the other and hand deliver to your guests. Of course, a garden would be the ideal setting, but relying on the weather can sometimes be a challenge. So why not bring the outdoors in? A checkered table cloth and a vase of fresh flowers make for a summery centerpiece. Sprinkle a few plastic bugs on the table for authenticity and you’re ready to go. Make fun flower place settings for each child by filling a mini terracotta pot with green jelly beans and a silk daisy, and then write the child’s name on with permanent craft pens. Decorate the house with real flowers, silk flowers, tissue paper bouquets, flower pots, vegetables, nests, birds, and bird houses. A fruit and veggie tray are a must at every garden party and using them for your serving dishes can make the ordinary a little extra special. Use half a watermelon to poke fruit skewers into and use a hollowed out pepper for your vegie dip. Serve alongside some ‘Ants on a log’ (celery sticks with peanut butter or spreadable cheese and raisin-ants on top), ‘Critter Crunch’ (mixture of pretzel sticks, yogurt covered raisins, fish crackers, chocolate chips etc.) and some Bug Juice or Nectar (apricot juice and 7-Up) and you have the perfect garden treats. If you have a younger group of party guests, simple games like Pin the Bee on the Flower or a bug hunt can be a challenge. Or set up a watering can relay where guests have to transfer water from one bucket to another with only a small watering can. This one is probably enjoyed best outdoors for obvious reasons! Why not purchase some inexpensive terra cotta or plastic flower pots and let the children decorate with markers, stickers, tissue paper etc.? A couple coats or a Mod Podge-type sealant and they are outdoor ready. Then let the fun begin! The children can plant a few seeds or small flowers in their decorated pot. If working indoors, cover an area with newspapers for easy clean-up and provide some soil, large spoons or trowels and a flower or packet of seeds for each child. For those youngsters that need the instant result that seeds do not guarantee, a hardy flower such as a Marigold works well. Grass seed also works well as the germination time is very short. At the end of the party send each guest home with a small watering can filled with a packet of seeds, kids gardening gloves, gummy worms or a grow your own herb garden kit. Of course, don’t let them forget their flower pots and their experiment with horticulture. Who knows- you may end up having some help planting this years garden and flower beds. Candace Walker and Andrea Lougheed are two local moms who own Wild About Party Packs, an online party store with all your party needs. 12 Kamloops Momma June/July 2011
Birthday Party Directory
Kamloops Momma June/July 2011 13
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The
Summer Fun Guide
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hat’s the best part about living in Kamloops? Summertime, of course! From the lakes to the mountains to the events and the ‘usually’ fantastic weather, Kamloops really is the place to be. But there’s one problem: There are so many things to do that you probably find yourself saying, “Oh! I wish we’d done that” when summer is over. Well, we’re here to help! Kamloops Momma has compiled a list of our ’must do’ activities. Check it out with your kids and then make your very own ‘must do’ list together!
Must Do’s Water fight
(circle your favourites)
Backyard Campout BC Wildlife Park
Build a Sandcastle No TV Week
Swimming
Market
Make Popsicles
Fly a Kite Family Farmer’s
Invent an Ice Cream Flavour Moonlight Movie Night
Secwepemc Museum
Photo Scavenger Hunt Geocaching
Camping
Boat Ride
Music in the Park
Canada Day Fireworks
Centre of the Universe
River
S’mores
Big Little Science Centre
Sleep in
Tie-dye Party
Children’s Summer Theatre
Spontaneous Road Trip Game Night
Kamloops’ Children’s Museum
Ride the 2141 train
Water Parks
Neighbourhood BBQ Float Down the
Day at the Beach
X Fest
Kid Approved Summer Treat:
Really, a Spinach Popsicle? Feel a little guilty giving your kids sugary frozen treats but even guiltier not letting them enjoy these summertime favourites? We have the solution: Green Smoothie Popsicles! These delicious treats are a fantastic way to get kids (and yourself!) to eat their fruits and veggies. No ice cream. No yogurt. No added sugar. Just fruits and veggies. We’ve included a simple recipe here, but the smoothie possibilities are endless. Try different fruits and greens to find your favourite combination! Note: Calling them spinach popsicles is not actually recommended!
Green Smoothie Recipe 2 cups spinach, fresh 1.5 cups water 1 large banana 1 cup blueberries, frozen 1/2 cup strawberries, frozen Put water and spinach in blender and blend until liquified. Put in remaining ingredients and blend. Enjoy now as a smoothie or fill popsicle moulds and freeze for later. Kamloops Momma June/July 2011 15
*Game!
Name the Day:
Inspire your imaginative little genius this summer
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instein and Da Vinci were genius, not because they could do math or read, but because they were able to use their imaginations to visualize something different. Their genius was in the power to connect the disconnected and to imagine the impossible being possible. Why not have a whole lot of fun this summer and know that you are inspiring and supporting the genius in you and your children? This simple, free, fun, and memorable imagination game can enhance outdoor adventures, driving time, home days, and even trips to the grocery store.
Name the Day examples: Today is the day of Trees Telling Stories. Today is ‘What would a faerie do?’ Day. Today is the colour orange showing us its wonders. Today is Pirate Day. Today is Piece of Cloth Day. Today is Elephant Day. Today is ‘We are Dr. Seuss’ Day. As the instigator of the “Name the Day” game, you will at first need to model what “Name the Day” can be. On ‘Orange’ day, each time you see something orange you can tell a story of what Orange might be thinking. Orange traffic cones might say, “Without me, these cones would be squished because drivers wouldn’t notice us.”
On ‘Trees Telling Stories’ day, you might notice a lone tree who tells a fantasy story of how he came to be the protector of all around him. On Pirate day, you can make up your own pirate names to call each other and ponder, “what would a pirate do?” ( or “what would a faerie do?”) as situations occur in the day. You don’t have to do what they would do, just ponder what they might do. And ‘Piece of Cloth’ day? Take a piece of cloth or towel with you and during the day see how many uses the family can come up with besides its traditional use. (ie: a wig, a cloak, a cover for your invisible pet, albeit the cloth might be too small for the imaginary elephant that joins you on ‘Elephant Day’… unless your elephant has shrinking abilities.) And who knows, your family might soon be reciting: The day we name the day, we love. We do. We love when Orange had a story about Blue. We love that our elephant scared Auntie Sue. Pirates are not always mean. It’s true. We think. We think our elephant is bright pink, Oh what if we have a day named ‘kitchen sink’? By Janet L. Whitehead ©2011 Certified Professional Life and Creativity Coach
Summer Fun at the BIG Little Science Centre! By Susan Hammond, Assistant Operator BIG Little Science Centre
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he BIG Little Science Centre is not just for kids anymore. Everyone will discover fun, exciting activities and experiments. Seniors bring your grandchildren, parents bring your out of town guests, children bring your families; enjoy yourselves while investigating the world of science. Join us for excitement and science adventure; new shows and activities each week will bring you back again and again. Open all year round, we know we have something just for you. The BIG Little Science Centre is a Kamloops-based, Photo cou rtesy of B LSC non-profit society dedicated to developing a passion for science in our community. We provide amazing labs, shows and hands-on learning for School District 73 classes, campers and the general public. Summer Camps too! Interactive fun; do hands-on science all camp long! Each year the BIG Little Science Centre runs cool science camps for children from ages 6 to 12. Activities include explosions, rockets, animals, experiments, games, crafts, crazy challenges to solve and lots of fun. Check out snow in summer, handmade roller coasters, chemistry excitement and more. As well as our annual junior and senior camps this year, for the first time ever, we are running a Robotics Camp for campers 10 years of age and up. This is an exciting new program which will give all those computer programmers and robot builders a chance to shine! Visit us until June 25 Thursday and Friday 3pm to 5pm and Saturday 10am to 4pm with a show at 1:30pm. To visit during the school week between 10am and 4pm, call to check on availability. Summer hours will run Monday July 4 to Saturday August 27; 10am to 4pm. On Canada Day, July 1st, look for our mini-science centre in Riverside Park. Discover and Explore Fun Science at the BIG Little Science Centre! 16 Kamloops Momma June/July 2011
Kamloops Momma June/July 2011 17
Community Business Directory Child Care
Health and Wellness
Boys and Girls Club of Kamloops
Aina Eco Spa
A good place to be Summer Day Camps July 11-August 26 McArthur Island Club 250.554.5437
Let us take you away… Massage therapy and aesthetics using organic and natural products 248 Victoria St. 250.319.4111 ainaspa@live.ca www.ainaspa.ca
Enriched Daycare
Alive and Well Massage Therapy Clinic BC Registered Massage Therapy
Aberdeen & Sahali Mall locations, 24/7 care. Dance, fitness, music, science and more! Birthday Party Fun Spot! 250.377.8190 www.enricheddaycare.com
790 Seymour St 250-374-6325 Perinatal and infant massage available www.AliveAndWellMassageTherapy.ca
Over the Raynebow Family Daycare
Ashley Leighton, RMT
DROP-IN CARE Now Available! North Shore. Open 7am-5pm. School pick-up and drop off. Daily outings. Contact Rayne at 250.376.7262
Optimal Health Therapeutic Massage Pain and Stress Management, Relaxation, Injury Prevention, and Sports Massage. 250-376-3070 www.ohtmassage.com ashley@ohtmassage.com
Children’s Stores and Services The Kids Room New owner, same great quality and service! Brand name clothing, shoes, and toys Geox, Striderite, Roxy, Blu, Mexx and more! 460-500 Notre Dame Dr. 250.374.5022
Lizzie Bits Baby Co. Go Green! Use Cloth! Cloth diaper specialists. Unique children’s items. High quality children’s consignment. 205-450 Lansdowne 250.374.8706 lizziebaby.ca
Mommy & Me Boutique Largest selection of NEW and USED items Nursing bras, Harley Davidson, Robeez & more! Over 10 000 quality consignment items! 3-700 Tranquille 250.376.1914 & Facebook
Fit By Design Precision Fitness Training...for Body and Mind Family Friendly Boot Camp Sabrina, www.kamloopsfitbydesign.com Look for us on Facebook!
Let’s Move Studio Yoga - Dance - Wellness Classes, workshops, and events letsmove@gmail.com 250.372.9642 www.letsmovestudio.com
Musings and Mud Coaching Studio Life Coaching with a creative twist! Workshops, workbooks, personal coaching! Janet L. Whitehead, certified professional coach janet@musingsandmud.com 250.376.8402 www.musingsandmud.com
Spa Pure Mulberry Bush Kids Stuff Inc. Gently Loved Consignment & New Items Infant to Adult Clothing, Baby Furniture, the largest inventory of Robeez, Melissa & Doug www3.telus.net/mulberrybush 250.374.2501 Now on Facebook!
Tumbleweed Toys Sahali Mall Specializing in the highest quality dolls, costumes, music, art, crafts, gifts, books, educational games, puppets, science kits 250.372.3500 www.TumbleweedToys.ca
“Adults are always asking little kids what they want to be when they grow up because they're looking for ideas.” ~ Paula Poundstone 18 Kamloops Momma June/July 2011
Enjoy a relaxing treatment at a luxurious spa without the worry of cost! 201B-1150 Hillside Dr. 250.574.1995 www.spapure.ca
Home-Based Sales and Services Cakes For Wee Ones A unique gift for new and expectant parents Diaper cakes, towel cakes, washcloth bouquets and more! bmartin_diapercake@yahoo.ca Facebook.com/CakesForWeeOnes
Delish Naturals Organic & natural body care for the whole family Yum Bum Butter, Body Lotion, Raspy Rub, Delish-ious Shampoo, Mango Mama Bump Butter, Bite Me Not! and more! www.delishnaturals.com
Community Business Directory Home-Based Sales and Service Cont’d Discovery Toys, Alison Gregory Discovery Toys Educational Leader 250.851.2270 aligregory@telus.net discoverytoyslink.com/aligregory Teach. Play. Inspire.
Music David Milwain Drum School Fun and affordable private lessons in the art of drumming One-on-one, in home, or studio classes avail. 778.220.4447 www.davidmilwaindrumschool.com
Judy Turnbull Sewing Services
Music for Young Children
Costuming, Hemming, Alterations, Home Décor, Custom Adaptive Clothing (for those with physical limitations) and Dressmaking 250.314.0028 sewncreations@shaw.ca
Music for Young Children is a national music program designed to build solid musicianship in young students; starting as young as 3! Kamloops Symphony Music School 250.372. 5000 www.myc.com
Ladybugz Slings n’ Things
Kamloops Symphony Music
Baby products you’ll get attached to! NEW soft and sustainable bamboo ring slings. Custom orders welcome! Shannon, 250.319.4437 LadybugzSlings.com
Moms Helping Moms – work from home Perfect opportunity for moms and others
www.lookaround.ca choiceofwellness@gmail.com
Sleepsacks by McSew 100% cotton flannelette Readymade or custom ordered, made in Kamloops by me! Jane at McKnit@hotmail.com 250.828.2309
Three Green Beans Save Money, Protect Your Health & the Environment with the SmartKleanTM Laundry Ball 250.573.7505 shanko_lynn@hotmail.com www.smartklean.com
Indoor Activities Akimbo Dance Studios Summer Dance Programs! Tots, Junior, Youth, and Boys Only Camps! 250.374.5404 765 Lansdowne St. www.akimbodancestudios.com
BIG Little Science Centre Discover & Explore Fun Science! Starting July 4, open Mon-Sat, 10-4 Summer Camps, Birthdays, Special Events! 250.554.2572 www.blsc.org Bert Edwards Science School, 711 Windsor Ave.
Game-On Interactive Fitness Putting the Fun into Fitness. All Ages, All Abilities, All FUN! 444 St Paul St 250.374.4263 www.gameoninteractivefitness.com
School Group classes and private instruction for all ages and levels. Station Plaza #3-510 Lorne St. 250.372.5000 info@kamloopssymphony.com
Parenting Resources KamloopsParents.com The online resource to all things familyfriendly in Kamloops. Sign up for our monthly newsletter! www.kamloopsparents.com elizabeth@kamloopsparents.com
The Loopy Family Coupon Book Because it’s fun to be frugal! 2011Coupon Book Now Available! 250.574.1258 info@loopyfamily.ca www.loopyfamily.ca
Welcome Wagon Are you expecting, or do you have a baby under a year old, moving, or getting married? Welcome Wagon has Programs, and/ or basket gifts for you! Call Pamela Lee for more info! 250.573.2823
Prenatal and Postpartum Care Mighty Oak Midwifery Personal, professional, woman-centered maternity care. Now accepting new clients! 250.377.8611 www.mightyoakmidwifery.ca
Parenthood in the Making Childbirth and Postpartum Services Susanne Pytela, B.S.W. DONA trained birth and postpartum doula 250.572.6383 susanne.pytela@gmail.com
There’s more business listings! Kamloops Momma June/July 2011 19
Prenatal and Postpartum Care Cont’d Tiny Blessings Prenatal Expecting? Let us teach you what to expect. Prenatal education focusing on late pregnancy, labor & delivery, breastfeeding, & newborn care. www.tinyblessingsprenatal.com 250-819-0510
Photography and Art Butterbutter Photography ...capturing the way you seen them in your heart, a fresh approach to newborn and family photography 250.377.5890 www.bbphotography.ca Find us on Facebook!
The Art We Are Artisan Market Local art, comfy couches, unique, delicious and (mostly) healthy food! New Location! 246 Victoria St. 250.828.7998 theartweare@gmail.com
Brianna Munro Something different from your normal studio photography www.briannamunro.com briannamunro@live.ca
Milk & Honey Photography Lisa DiGeso milkandhoney@mail.com www.milkandhoneyphotography.ca
Twist of Fate Yarns A Momma Friendly shop for your knitting & spinning needs. Classes, drop-in knitting, & events! 778.471.5562 twistoffateyarns.com 2020– F Falcon Rd *By Falcon Lanes Bowling.
Real Estate and Investments Ken Featherstone, Realtor Bringing Families Home Royal LePage Westwin Realty Personal Real Estate Corp. 250.374.1461 kenfeathetone@royallepage.ca
Kim Livingston, Mortgage Specialist You take care of the kids, let me take care of your mortgage. The Mortgage Group 250.571.2480 kamloopsmortgagegroup.com
Small Business Consulting KG Creative Consulting Fresh new approach to helping you succeed! Specializing in small business marketing, promotions and events. Mompreneur packages and promotions available. Visit www.kamloopsevents.ca for full details 20 Kamloops Momma June/July 2011
Prenatal Massage Therapy: Good for you and for baby By Jenn Johnson, RMT
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assage for the expectant mother can be a way of taking much-needed time for self-care and the benefits will be felt both physically and mentally. Physical discomforts such as swelling in the feet and legs, back and hip pain, and tension headaches can all be addressed with massage. During pregnancy, circulation can be affected by the increase in blood volume that occurs, as well as the compression of arteries in the pelvis due to the increasing size and weight of the uterus. Long, rhythmic massage strokes encourage proper circulation which may help to relieve swelling in the lower body and decrease chances of developing varicose veins. With a changing center of gravity and increased weight in the front of the body, many women experience low back and hip pain as well as pain in the upper back and shoulders. By targeting muscle and connective tissue, massage therapy can help to combat the aches and pains associated with imbalances that can happen as your body adjusts to changes in posture and gait. Tension headaches are also quite common during pregnancy and are often caused by postural changes and muscle imbalances too. As well as the physical relief that massage can provide, there are also many important emotional and mental benefits of massage therapy pre- and perinatally. Studies done by Tiffany Field and Associates at the Touch Research Institute found that women who received regular massage during pregnancy had lower levels of stress hormones, not only during the study but for several months postpartum. These results also affected their infants, as babies born to the massaged mothers also showed lower stress hormones than controls. Relaxation during pregnancy has been shown to correlate with shorter labours, fewer prenatal and labour complications, reduced fear and anxiety and an increased immune response. The Alive and Well Massage Therapy clinic has been operating in Kamloops since 1999. Started as the solo practice of Luz Meyer, RMT, it has grown to include eight therapists. Our office is equipped with a Body Cushion pillow designed specifically to accommodate pregnant women, adequately supporting the stomach so that back massage can be performed comfortably and safely.
Dear Aunty…
Do you have a question for “Aunty” Erin? Contact her at cdnnurse1995@yahoo.ca.
Answering questions about you and your child’s health
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ello fellow Kamloops Mommas (and Papas)! I received a huge response from our last column about the Birds and Bees and I’m thrilled to announce that thanks to all your interest, an “Askable Parent” workshop is being brought to Kamloops this fall, put on by Options for Sexual Health in Vancouver. The 3-hour interactive course is designed for parents and other adults who want to “improve the knowledge and skills they need to be approachable, non-judgmental sources of reliable sexual health information for their children and other young people, and guides who can help them confirm their values, sexual self-image, and decision making abilities as they mature.” Look for more info in our next issue! Now, on to your letters... through constant adult supervision. This learned sequence of floating skills as shown in the video will not protect children from drowning.” According to the Canadian Paediatric Society, drowning is the second most common cause of death for children under 5 years of age. Children can drown in as little as 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water, and many of these tragedies happen in backyard pools, and almost always in pools without 4-side pool fencing and self-closing, self-latching safety gates. So if the so-called “drown proofing” programs as shown on the internet don’t actually work, What are some other water safety tips? • Use diapers designed for use in water. They don’t get as heavy as regular diapers and are less likely to cause your child to lose his balance in a wading pool. • Empty buckets and pails, ice chests with melted ice, or bathtubs as soon as you are done with them. • When your children are playing under a sprinkler, watch for pools of water collecting on the ground. They can be slippery. Move the sprinkler often, or take a break until the water has drained. Use sprinklers on grassy surfaces and make sure the play area is free of toys or other obstacles. • A backyard water slide should be used with caution. Set it up on a soft, grassy slope, free of bumps, and well away from trees or shrubs. Teach children to slide in a sitting position. • Keep children away from ponds and streams at any time of year, unless you are with them. As for swimming lessons, the Canadian Paediatric Society says ,“there is not a lot of research about the exact age when young children are ready to learn how to swim. Several studies show that children do not have the skills to swim on their own until they are 4 years old, even if they start lessons at a younger age. If your child is younger than 4 years old, look for swimming programs that focus on DEAR AUNTY: A friend sent me a link on the Internet showing building water confidence and that teach parents about waa program where young kids can be taught to flip over in the ter safety. This is a great way to have fun and be active with water to prevent drowning. Is there anywhere in Kamloops your children.” that I can sign my baby up for this program? With summer Here in Kamloops we have a two wonderful programs for coming, better safe than sorry! - Jessica young children: one through the YMCA and one through the Parks and Recreation Department. You can talk to the inDear Jessica: Timely question! The Red Cross’s Water Safety structors and lifeguards directly, or check out the excellent Week is June 4-11 and I consulted with them I consulted with sites at the Canadian Red Cross or the Paediatric Society’s them and the Canadian Paediatric Society for your question. “There has been a video circulating on the Internet showing “Caring for Kids” website: www.caringforkids.cps.ca/ young children able to float on their backs, suggesting that this keepkidssafe/WaterSafety.htm "Aunty" Erin Mitchell is a proud nurse, momma, and owner/ method will protect them from drowning. The Canadian Red operator of Aunty's House Registered Family Daycare in KamCross completely disagrees with this method and states that loops. She is currently working on a degree in child and adothe only way to keep children safe in and around water is lescent psychology through TRU. DEAR AUNTY: My son is entering Kindergarten and is still sucking his thumb. I am worried about teasing and about him ruining his teeth. How do I stop this? - Melanie Dear Melanie: I consulted Dr. Jason Heilmann at Riverside Dental Clinic and looked to the Canadian Paediatric Society and American Academy for Pediatrics for help with your question. “The good news is that most children stop their sucking habits before they get very far in school,” says the American Academy for Pediatrics. “This is because of peer pressure. While your child might still use sucking as a way of going to sleep or calming down when upset, this is usually done in private and is not harmful. Putting too much pressure on your child to stop may cause more harm than good. Be assured your child will eventually stop the habit on his own.” Dr. Heilmann points out that from a dentist’s point of view, incoming permanent teeth can “flare” in appearance with continued thumb sucking. If baby teeth are starting to fall out and thumb sucking is continuing, or if you see that the roof of your child‘s mouth is changing shape or the way their teeth are lining up is changing, there are some behavioural tips for helping your child to stop. “Harsh words, teasing, or punishment may upset your child and is not an effective way to get rid of habits.” Instead, try the following: • Praise and reward your child when he does not suck his thumb or use the pacifier. Star charts, rewards, and gentle reminders, especially during the day, are also very helpful. • If your child uses sucking to relieve boredom, keep his hands busy or distract him with things he finds fun. • Talk to your pediatrician or pediatric dentist. There are devices that can be put in the mouth that make it uncomfortable to suck on a finger or thumb. But remember, “no matter what method you try, be sure to explain them to your child. If they make your child afraid or tense, stop them at once.” For more information check out: www.nccpeds.com/sdrive/Patient%20Handouts/pacifiers.pdf
Kamloops Momma June/July 2011 21
Photo Feature:
By Sara Schriener
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at Anfield of Studio-Five-O and myself, Sara Schreiner of Life Unfolding, are professional photographers and moms who believe that photography is about more than great images. Photography is an opportunity to create positive experiences and change for individuals and our community. Both natural teachers, Nat and I brought together a group of moms who were lugging around camera’s that had never been taken out of the Auto shooting mode. Our goal? To spend a year connecting with these women while teaching them both the technical and emotional elements of photography. Follow along as these amateur photographers complete assignments designed to lead them along a reflective journey that will accumulate in a gallery showing of the year’s work. For more information on Mom’s with Cameras, contact Sara at photographer@lifeunfolding.ca.
What’s Next? Next issue it’s the kids’ turn! We’re going to be featuring the work of kids taking part in the Shoot for the Moon photography workshops hosted by Studio-Five-O photography. Check out studiofive-o.com for more info.
22 Kamloops Momma June/July 2011
Top: Who They Are Elizabeth Chubak Right: Innocence Shauna Peace
Left: Innocence Sara Mills Below: Who They Are Jen Mallais
And the World will Live as One… Visiting an inclusive child care centre
By Courtney Charlton
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magine a world where everyone plays together in harmony, regardless of language, religion, socio-economic status, or ability. It sounds pretty good, doesn’t it? Well, I was recently asked to visit the Kamloops Child Development Society and I have to say that this child care centre is probably as close to a harmonious world as I’ve witnessed. The Kamloops Child Development Society is a non-profit society founded in 1973. Its vision is “a community where all children have opportunities for their unlimited development.” At the core of the KCDS is the belief that all children should learn together, regardless of their differences; a belief called ‘inclusion.’ The KCDS offers child care for ages 9 months and up, preschool, and out of school programs, including summer camps. The common thread of these programs is that typical children and children with special needs are together. Great importance is placed on the development of social and emotional skills. “Through social skills, we acquire discipline, knowledge, ambitions, and empathy for those around us,” says Mayanna Stiles, Early Childhood Educator, “These things allow us to participate in the life of the family and later school and the community.” “Children with special needs lag in social competence,” explains Stiles, “Also, children with special needs initiate far fewer social exchanges than normally developing peers.” At the KCDC, typical children are used as models for social skills, but the mentoring works both ways. And, most importantly, everyone is treated the same and all activities are modified so everyone can be involved. “We find that’s the best learning environment for everyone,” says Barb McLean, Executive Director. For example, if a speech therapist recommends a game for a specific child, they will play the game with everyone so the child isn’t singled out. Or if a child has low muscle tone, he uses a special chair so he can eat at the table with his peers and a custom glove that enables him to hold objects such as paint brushes and spoons. It’s not just the children with special needs that benefit from the inclusive setting: it’s the typical children as well. They learn to be compassionate; they learn to helpful; they learn to be mentors.
Although the programs focus on including everyone, the attention to individual needs is very clear. One room, for example, has a “How are you feeling today?” chart where children place a picture of an emotion beside their name upon arrival. There’s also a plastic cube covered in a blanket where children go to calm down, especially when experiencing sensory overload, but it’s a choice rather than a punishment. And on the floor leading into another room are train tracks with Thomas the Train. They are there for a boy who loves Thomas but has a difficult time leaving his parents each day. “We wrap the program around the children, not the children around the program,” explains McLean. As such, the dynamic of every class is different. Some are quiet, some are loud; some are structured, some are more flexible – whatever the children need. But within each program, consistency is very important. “Transitions without having consistency and routine builds anxiety,” says McLean. Visual schedules - pictures in sequence of the day’s agenda - are used to help children deal with transitions. It’s the little details like this that make inclusion not only possible, but exceptional. For more information on the Kamloops Child Development Society, call 250.376.2233 or go to www.cdckamloops.com.
Kamloops Momma June/July 2011 23
The Little Moments:
Get Connected:
A Dad’s Perspective
A guide to local parentchild groups Attachment Parenting 2/month - days and locations vary 250-376-4723
Family Tree Drop-in
Nathan, 21 months, waits patiently as his dad builds his new bike.
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 By Tony Carmichael
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y wife and daughter, who just turned 5, were sitting in the grass chatting while I was playing with our middle boy. I heard them both trying to snap so I decided to listen in: "Can you snap your pointy finger and your thumb, mama? I can't work it right!" "Nope, Bella I can't. I don't think many people can." "My daddy can!" she said all proud and big. My heart melted and I remembered why I wanted to have a big family: because moments like that where my daughter announces to her mom that I am awesome or moments like when she proudly tells her aunty she is going to marry her daddy! Okay, so in fatherhood we all make mistakes. Case in point: I am making a pb and jam sandwich and my daughter walks over and says, “Eew, is that blood, Daddy?” I kind of giggle and before I can answer she tottles off. Well, when I pick her up from school that day her teacher pulls me aside and says, "Bella told the other children you were eating blood today for lunch." Uh oh! Now I'm in trouble. Hehe. But how can I be mad at her when she looks and me and says, “It's okay, Daddy. Mommy will make you a better lunch tomorrow!”
*will be outside when weather is nice—please call to confirm location Fri 9:30-11:30 Prince Charles Park 250.828.1114 coffee-connexions@hotmail.com
Kamloops Wiggles and Giggles Adoption Playgroup Monthly, times and locations vary Deanna Jones, jones_A@telus.net
Next Steps Fri, 1-2:20 Kamloops Public Health Unit 519 Columbia St. 250.851.7300
StrongStart Programs (during school year)
Bumblebees Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, 8:30-11:30 Wed, 122:30 Arthur Hatton Elem., 315 Chestnut Ave. 250.376.7217
Dragon Flies Mon-Fri, 8:30-11:30 Marion Schilling Elem., 2200 Park Dr. 250.376.2027
Eagles’ Nest 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 24 Kamloops Momma June/July 2011
Travels in Tuktoyaktuk: An educational adventure
By Teresa Wiedrick
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e had driven eleven days in a minivan with four children under nine: that would be two car seats, two booster seats, and two adults trying to entertain them for six hours a day. Ten nights of luggage dragged in and out of hotels or roadside motels. Thirty three meals in restaurants meant hamburgers, mini pizzas and chicken fingers, with complimentarily and ubiquitous French fries. No vegetables. And three meals of milk per child—the equivalent of four litres a day. The last five weeks, we`d lived in a two bedroom apartment, sunshine full blast...sunshine through the night, through the day—blackout blinds enabling a pseudo-night. We were thankful for the windowless room that the girls stayed in. Madelyn remarked one day that we hadn’t done much: We do the same thing day in and day out. We get up, watch cartoons, do studies, play in the common area, sometimes go to the pool or library, do more studies, eat, read and go to bed. Same thing every day! Except, of course, for the afternoons at the Boot Lake Beach, the caramel steamers at the local cafe, a super expensive fast food dinner at the Roost Restaurant, making bread almost every day, independently preparing breakfasts on the stove: scrambled eggs or French toast. Oh, there was also the church ice cream social and playground visits with the local kids. How about trips to the gift and book stores, grocery shopping is an adventure: wow, mom, look how much diapers are!! (Zachary, you’re on the countdown to diaper training). There were visits to the biggest greenhouse in North West Territories and the Roman Catholic Igloo Church. Learning to make muskox wool out of muskox fur at the Northern Arts Festival. Trying muskox hamburgers, Parks Day at Mackenzie School watching aboriginal drummers and dancers. And first hand viewing of stuffed muskox and caribou at the Inuvik Visitor Centre. Gulp, deep breath. We’ve found a few things to do. But today, at almost the 70th parallel, we had decided to take a most exotic trip. I was taking my three girls on a Cessna flight to Tuktoyaktuk, a forty five minute flight from Inuvik. I remember the name of this northern Arctic town because as a child my parents drove the ice roads from Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk; my dad a long distance truck driver, long before I was born, experienced many remote locations of Canada. So here I was, twenty five years later, booking a flight with a charter company, the Arctic Chalet Bed and Breakfast, to fly in a six seater Cessna to a North West Territories whaling town on the Beaufort Sea. The youngest three of us bartered over seat choices. There were only four available and there were exactly four of us present. As we followed the Mackenzie Delta northward from Inuvik, our temporary residence for the summer, we flew over more black spruce than I imagined would be this far north. The mighty Mackenzie fertilizes all these trees. But just over the Delta, moving eastward, the trees recede into tundra. Lakes upon lakes upon lakes like watery puddles of holes of Swiss cheese. In a minute, Hannah counted 200 lakes on the right; 26 Kamloops Momma June/July 2011
Madelyn counted 100. Oliver, the young Quebecois fellow flying the plane up front, graciously tipped the plane to the right for us to see the close-up of a pingo. Right on top of it we were. Like a frozen volcano, the four or five we saw sat forlorn in the far reaches of the north. Five year old Rachel was less than thrilled with this aeronautic trick. An Inuvialuit woman, Elaine, met us at the Tuktoyaktuk airport. A long time resident to the area, she had lived there since she was a child. She had one son and for six months of each year, she and her family would go `out on the land` living in a cabin hunting caribou and picking blueberries, cranberries and cloudberries. Eileen showed us the community built icehouse—30 feet straight down into permafrost—a natural freezer for food with three hallways and nineteen compartments. The girls couldn`t have been more disappointed when I told them they wouldn’t be able to use their Velcro-strapped headlights to make an adventurous trek downstairs. Though I was advised that the ladder down was slippery so I could ``catch`` them. I don’t really understand the logistics of that: catching three girls might be a little tricky. Whaling season had just ended that previous month. We could stand on the dock beside the inlet where the belugas and their babies play in the deep brown sea, but we didn`t catch a glimpse. We learned that the fourteen foot beluga whales are harpooned first, then shot at so that when they come up for air and dragged back to the Tuk harbour, they won`t sink to the bottom. Every last bit of the beluga is used for something and can feed three families: blubber for cooking oil, blood drained for blood soup, the almost black meat shared amongst the participant`s families and always something left over for single families or elders. The health center was pointed out...my husband had visited there only a week before as he was medi-vacked there to deliver a baby, which was a free trip to Tuk for him. Two people occupied the seniors home. The remaining rooms were rented out to the 50 year old crowd. There was even a small college...with one professor willing to teach whatever clever ideas the residents could procure. Queen Elizabeth visited Tuk in the 1960s. Her car was flown in so she could tour this tiny island in style. Only a week or two after our visit, Prime Minister Stephen Harper visited too—he ski-dooed down the airport runway. We couldn`t resist visiting the local store, a Northern Mart. What I thought was expensive in Inuvik now seemed a pittance. At $12 for 4 litres of milk in Inuvik, I was willing to forgo dairy for five weeks. But in Tuk, 4 litres was $20! If I`d lived here, I might not so eagerly support the dairy industry. I might even think soya milk was tasty. That UHT stuff I drank as a child might come back in vogue. The girls got into their little purses and found enough money to purchase Lik-a-Maids ($1.69 each) and I purchased a white chocolate Toblerone for the trip home. Perhaps I should have checked the expiry on my purchase; it was over a year old and tasted like it too. I guess white Toblerone is overrated in the north. We grabbed our treats, were driven by the 4x4 back to the airport and met Oliver in the airport. He flew us over the Arctic Ocean, one last look at this cafe latte coloured northern mark on the Canadian map. As we flew southwest to our temporary home in Inuvik, a rainbow, just under the level of clouds, guided us home.
Hannah, Madelyn, and Rachel explore Tuktoyaktak with their mom, Teresa.
The Kids’ Perspectives “We goed to a candy store and we went to a place where we stored whales. I wish we could go into the whale spot. We went on a plane. The man moved the plane over the pingo so we could see it. There were shells there, at the Arctic Ocean. It was fun. I liked that we were doing fun things and liked that we got to see where they stored their food: whales, seafood and penguins (nope, you'll only see penguins in the Antarctic actually). The beach at the ocean was nice. It was cold. I thought it would be winter, because in the place where we were just staying, Inuvik, it felt like winter.” -Rachel, 5 “Cold, rainy and interesting. Sorta smelly too. Smelled like raw meat. The plane flight made me feel sick. The most amazing thing I saw was the view of Inuvik from the plane and seeing the Mackenzie Delta. The funniest thing about the day: the tour guide was surprised that we didn't go down into the ice freezer. The ice house stinked. The beach was cold, cold, and cold. It was interesting though. I could see the Arctic Ocean and the Beaufort Sea. The scariest thing about the day: I took a picture of the meat freezer, just put my hand out over top of it and took a picture 30 feet down. Interesting to see a pingo.” -Hannah, 9 “We went to a candy store. And we went to that ice place where they holded meat. It was fun. I just liked the experience of going into there. I didn't really see the meat freezer. The ocean was fun and there were a lot of rocks beside the ocean. They were big and had lots of seaweed and moss on them. The ocean was blue and really cold. We got to bring home shells, and water in a plastic water bottle. We got to see inside the meat freezer and have candy for the plane ride. The plane ride was really sickening. It surprised me that the ground was really dirty and there was lots of snow and there was ice on the water. The people looked like Indians (Hannah in background: they don't like to be called Indians). The meat freezer stinked.” -Madelyn, 7
Kamloops Momma June/July 2011 27
28 Kamloops Momma June/July 2011
Music Education: Priceless
Left to right: Grayson, 8 mon, Sienna, 2.5, Emma, 3 By Linda Shwaylyk
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hat are the benefits of music lessons from those of us in the trenches who have witnessed first hand the effect on children as they grow up to adulthood? I would like to point out three from my vantage point of thirty years teaching music to young children. I ask my kids, “How do you eat an elephant?” The answer is, “One mouthful at a time.” This, of course, reveals the generation gap. I am the ‘Elephant Joke’ generation and the kids are usually grossed out. However, it exemplifies the first benefit of music education- being able to take a big task and break it down into little tiny chunks. What a life skill that is! The dreaded “P” word, practice, is arguably the best thing to come out of music lessons. A friend of mine pointed out the second benefit. She said that those who take music lessons are more open to listening to all kinds of music. They may not like it but they will at least listen to it. There is such history, culture and tradition in music that I see it as a real benefit to be open to all of it instead of being limited to just one generation’s music. It gives me great pleasure when I teach my kids a song that their grandparents can sing along to. The third benefit is the emotional component. My mom said that she knew how my day at school went by how I played my scales. Trust me, that beautiful child you have is going to turn into a teenager. You just might be looking for a healthy vent for all that emotion! At my dentist’s office I read a plaque that defines success. As I was mulling each aspect over in my mind, the thought occurred to me that nearly all were being taught for the price of music lessons. And what other endeavour could you start so young, teaching self-discipline, co-operation, self-esteem and selfconfidence to toddlers even! Because I teach young children specifically, I would like to point out benefits of starting them young. If you participate with your child you can observe how they react to a teacher, how they react to instruction, how they learn, and how they interact with peers. All of this is valuable information for when you send them to school where you are not present to witness these things. In music class you can be there to coax them through dealing with mistakes and learning how to listen. As the work load increases, you can teach them how to organize their tasks. Another benefit to starting young is that children get all the preliminary stuff done while we can still make it fun for them. Then when they are starting to make their own choices, they can be on to interesting endeavours that they find fun. The fun aspect is strong motivation for overcoming the practicing hurdle. music lessons cost in time and money. However, the benefits are, as they say, PRICELESS! Suggested reading on the benefits of music education: The Mozart Effect; This is Your Brain on Music: The science of a Human Obsession; Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain, and many others available.
Lizzie Update By Troi Crombie
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re you a super mom to some pretty super kids? Hockey tournaments, Justin Bieber concerts, play dates? What about the mountains of laundry and what’s behind the closet doors? I am convinced that it is the most difficult, wonderful, fun, and rewarding job in the world-a job that nothing can prepare you for. And, of course, let’s also remember that as a super mom we are first a super wife to our husbands-you know how we’re always super sexy at the end of the week for that always scheduled date night that we exchange our flip flops in for our pumps, right? And is your week also filled up with a day job? Being on your toes and at the beck and call of all the others besides your family? What about being a business owner? Are HST numbers, employee scheduling, payroll, stock, WCB, and write-offs friends to you? What about on top off all of this one of your children is battling cancer? Blood transfusions, white blood counts, surgery, chemotherapy, infection, antibiotics, watching your child miss out on what is considered a ‘normal’ social life? If you were balancing all of this would you keep your name as ‘super mom’? In the past year I have met a pretty super friend and I have watched her keep the title of super mom: Jennifer Harbaruk balances her own cheque book, makes sure she tells her husband how important he is, makes her boys a priority, cherishes her customers that support her family’s store, adores her employees and, yes, she drives her little girl to and from Children’s Hospital. I’ve had the privilege of writing the story of her daughter, Elizabeth, and their family as Lizzie battles cancer and, even though I have a little window into their life, I still have no idea what they, and other families like them, go through every day. And Jenn even makes the time to show her friends that she appreciates their thoughts, prayers and love. Lizzie has just finished week 32 of chemotherapy treatment. The Harbaruk’s wait for her evaluation scheduled for mid-June. She continues to be strong, although susceptible to even the common cold and infection when her white counts are low. Look for Lizzie’s full write story in the next Kamloops Momma. Kamloops Momma June/July 2011 29
Community Events Calendar June 1 (Cont): Family Game betes research, Sara, 250.682.6481 Night Wed 5:30-8:30, All ABoard Games, 334 Victoria St., June 11/July 9: Home Depot 250.377.0745 Kids Workshop 10am, ages 4 June 1-Oct 30: Downtown -12 250.371.4300 (free) Farmer’s Market June 11: Relay For Life 10 Sat: St. Paul between 2nd+3rd am, Riverside Park Wed: Victoria St. between 4th+5th. Market starts at 8am. June 12: Walk to Cure Diabetes 9:30, MacDonald Park June 2-13: BC Lions Training Camp Hillside Stadium (free) June 13/15: Enriched Parenting Classes Lead by a reg. June 2 (Cont): Shambhala clinical counsellor and ECE, Meditation Mon/Thurs 7 pm, 250.377.8190 Sat 12pm, 433b Lansdowne St. June 16: Teddy Bear Picnic/ kamloops.shambhala.org, Mother Goose Celebration 250.376.4224 (free) 11 -1, Prince Charles Park, June 3: Car Seat Safety Event 250.828.3500 (free) 1-2:30, Public Health 519 CoJune 17-19: Wellness Festilumbia (free) val Let’s Move Studio, June 3-Oct 28: North Shore www.letsmovestudio.com Farmer’s Market Spirit June 18 : Fathers Day at the Square, Fri. 4-8 (free) Kamloops Museum 1:30June 4 (Cont): Chapters Craft 3:30, boys only, make a modand Storytime Saturdays 11- el car, 250.828.3576 12pm 250.377.8468 (free) June 18/July 16: Child PasJune 5: YMCA Healthy Kids senger Safety 11-3pm Free Day 10-2, Downtown Y, at clinic. $5 by appt or visit. 250.372.7725 (free) Lizzie Bits Baby Co. 250.374.8706 June 5-9: Performing Arts BC Provincial Festival June 18/22: Family Fun Day www.kfpa.ca at Senior Froggy N. Shore, 5-
Group. 7-8:30pm, Pregnancy Care Centre, 250-376-4646
Have an event? Te ll u s about it June 24: 5 Buck Fun Fit Friand we’ll put days 6-8pm, Game-On! 444 it in our C o m m u n ity Events St. Paul, 250.374.4263 Calendar fo r June 26: Kids of Steel TriFREE! info@kam athlon Swim, cycle, run and loopsmom ma.com have fun, 250.579.2312 or find us o n Faceboo koskamloops@telus.net k! July 1: Canada Day Celebrations at Riverside Park July 9: Kamloops Art in the Park, entertainment, Highland Games Albert cultural food, fireworks (free) McGowan Park July 1: The 2141 Canada Day Train Kamloops Heritage Railway, #6 - 510 Lorne Street ,9:30pm, 250.374.2141
30 Kamloops Momma June/July 2011
July 13/20: Moonlight Movie Night Riverside Park at dusk, proceeds to Boys and Girls Club, 250.554.5437
July 1-Aug 31: Music in the Park Nightly entertainment at July 20-Aug 6: X-Fest 2010 Rotary Bandshell, Riverside presents Munsch Ado About Park, 7-8:30 (free) Nothing 250-374-5483 for July 2– Aug 30: The Spirit of ticket info Kamloops 2141 Train July 23: Chrome on the Mon/Fri -7pm, Sat -11am Grass Show n’ Shine 250.374.2141 Prince Charles Park. ProJuly 2-3: Summer Kick Off Celebration at Sun Peaks (free)
ceeds go to Children’s Ward at RIH. 250-573-4321
July 23-24: Seek the Peaks Geocaching Weekend July 2-Aug 27: Artisan’s Square at St. Andrews on the Reg. req’d. 250.578.5542 Square Sat, 8:30-12 (free) July 29-July 31: Kamloopa
7, feat. Uncle Chris the Clown, July 4-22: KISSM (Kamloops 250.554.2055 Interior Summer School of June 19: Father’s Day at the Music) 250.574.5437 BC Wildlife Park- Walk/Run July 5-Aug 28: the BIG Little for Prostate Cancer 9077 Science Centre Summer Dallas Dr. 250.573.3242 June 8/ July 12: Cloth DiaSchedule 711 Windsor Ave., pers 101 Weds 7-8, Sun 1-2 June 19: End of School Fami- Mon-Sat 10-4, www.blscs.org Lizzie Bits Baby Co., ly Weekend Bash at BC 250.374.8706 (free) July 6/20: Family Fun Day at Wildlife Park 250-573-3242 Senior Froggy N. Shore, 5-7, June 11: Brides Gone Wild June 20/July 18: Held in the feat. Uncle Chris the Clown, Get dressed up in a wedding Wings of Angels Pregnancy 250.554.2055 dress to support Juvenile Diaand Infant Loss Support June 8/July13: Moms Morning Out 9:30-11:30, Mighty Oak Midwifery, 202-322 Victoria Street, 250.377.8611 (free)
kamloopshighlandgames.com
Pow Wow One of the largest celebrations of First Nations’ culture in Western Canada, 250-372-8833 July 29-Sept 6: North Shore Art Walk Local artists’ work is displayed at businesses Aug 1: BC Bears Celebration at the BC Wildlife Park feat. Peter and Friends, 250.573.3242
32 Kamloops Momma June/July 2011