Wiregrass Parents December 2022

by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

Control What You Can

My husband and I recently watched Summer Rental, a 1985 movie about a family on vacation. We noticed a stark difference between the behavior of the children in this older movie and the behavior of children in more recent productions. The children in “Summer Rental” were more realistic. They talked too much but could entertain themselves without electronics, complained, and argued with one another. Children in current family movies are often depicted as quiet, rational, and glued to devices. The difference between the parents was also drastic.

The parents from the 80s movie were in control and demanded respect. Unfortunately, modern media often displays weak parents who care more about making their children happy than about raising productive, healthy adults. It was shocking to see what I observe in my practice daily displayed on the screen.

I often speak with pediatricians, their nurses, and other mental health professionals about the pattern we are all seeing of parents looking for a medical diagnosis instead of simply accepting their responsibility and the

reality of parenting. Unfortunately, many factors play into the epidemic that Leonard Sax, MD refers to as “The Collapse of Parenting.”

One factor you may not be aware of is that drug companies are profiting from misrepresenting typical childlike behavior as a medical problem. For example, when I was in graduate school, a bipolar disorder diagnosis required episodes of depression and mania to last for days (at least). In the mid-1990s, a group of Harvard researchers successfully argued that bipolar disorder in children was different because the cycles lasted only minutes. According to their research, children who were sad one minute and happy the next were “abnormal,” which led to a fortyfold increase in the prescriptions of Resperdal and Seroquel. When the research team was investigated, it was determined they were paid $4 million by the companies that produced these drugs.

There is an epidemic of parents not owning up to the responsibility of raising children well. Instead of learning how to parent effectively and creating environments that set children up for success, some are looking for excuses, explanations, and accommodations.

How do we fix this? We empower parents to control what they can. The research consistently reveals that food, sleep, and media significantly impact behavior. You have control of these things. Your children may not like the limits you set, but this is YOUR responsibility.

1. Feed them healthy foods. I always ask interns to notice any commonalities between problem behaviors and nutrition. After only a day or two of doing intakes, every intern has reported that children with the most significant behavior problems only eat highly processed foods full of carbohydrates. These foods spike blood sugar, causing irritability.

2. Ensure they get 10 to 12 hours of sleep each night. A lack of sleep creates symptoms consistent with ADHD and several other diagnoses. Keep bedrooms free of toys and electronics, create consistent bedtime routines, and use sound machines. If you have done everything you can to help your child sleep and nothing works, discuss it with your pediatrician.

3. Place strong limits on video games and handheld media. A growing body of evidence reveals how detrimental these devices are to brain development. Also, these devices limit social interactions and learning experiences. It is important for children to be bored, observe their environments, and communicate constantly with the people around them.

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.

“Your students will remember your smile, your laugh, that you loved them and that they were important,” shared Anna Hall, our Wiregrass Parents Teacher of the Month. “Don’t stress yourself out over the things they won’t remember. Breathe, listen, laugh, and love them. That’s most important.”

Mrs. Hall has been teaching for 26 years and currently teaches second-grade math and science at Holly Hill Elementary. She graduated from Auburn University in 1996 with a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education. She later pursued her Master’s degree in English as a Second Language at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Mrs. Hall shared that even though it might sound corny, the old saying ‘what a teacher does today, affects tomorrow’ is truly what keeps her motivated to teach. She shares that it is exciting to know something she said, taught, or did could impact tomorrow.

For Mrs. Hall, developing relationships with her students and their families has been the most rewarding aspect of teaching.

“Last year, I had a student whose mother I had taught when she was in third grade,” she said. “Now, this might make me seem really old, but I think it just makes me really blessed!”

“Mrs. Hall is an incredible educator,” said Carlotta Slater-Brion, who has a student in Mrs. Hall’s class. “She sees her students’ strengths and uses those to excel them through math and science.”

Carlotta went on to share, “I’ve seen so many of her past students visit her classroom because she made an impact on them. Mrs. Hall is that teacher who sticks with you even as an adult because she has been celebrating your accomplishments with you since elementary school. Every school needs a Mrs. Hall, and every student deserves a Mrs. Hall.”

This second-grade teacher expressed so much gratitude in regard to being nominated and selected as Teacher of the Month. She went on to say that parents share their most important treasures with her every day and that having the opportunity to share in their child’s life is an honor and a privilege.

“My students have taught me that often the most important lessons don’t come from the curriculum. Many times when we calculate humor, love, fun and laughter into our day it is worth far more than data, standards and deadlines,” said Mrs. Hall. “They have taught me to appreciate the personal moments and special times and not to let the hurried frenzy of educational requirements overshadow what’s truly important....the joy of childhood.”

Anna is married to her childhood best friend, Mike Hall. They are both natives of Enterprise. Anna has two daughters, Kate (23) and Beth (19), and Mike has three sons, Aubrey (28), Connor (26), and Bryce (24). They enjoy spending time with family, playing with their pups and traveling! Anna’s hobbies include reading, spending time at the beach and makeup consulting.

Anna Hall

Holly Hill Elementary School

Gardens Aglow

December 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, 2022 * 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Dothan Area Botanical Gardens, Dothan Gardens Aglow is a walking tour to see the Dothan Area Botanical Gardens lit up for the holiday season! Gardens Aglow is open on Friday and Saturday nights between Thanksgiving and Christmas. New features are added every year. Treat yourself and your Holiday guests to this special event. This family oriented affair will feature Christmas lights, holiday blow-ups, and animated displays.

Entry tickets must be purchased in advance for a designated date and 30-minute entry period. Tickets may be purchased online at dabg.com or at the DABG office.

Dothan Downtown’s Christmas Festival

December 10 * 10:30 AM

Join us in Dothan Downtown for a holiday celebration with lots of family friendly fun. Selfies with Santa and the Grinch, Downtown Train Station, holiday crafts and letters to Santa, Christmas choirs, ice & lights ice skating, maker’s market, and good food.

Enterprise Christmas Tour of Homes

December 4, 2022 * 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM

Join us on a self-guided tour of 6 beautifully decorated homes and 1 business all around our amazing city. Tickets available from Initially Yours, Yancey Parkers, State Farm Insurance downtown Enterprise and all Pilot members.

Lights Along the River

Through December 31

Flint River, Bainbridge GA

Bring the entire family to this FREE Christmas Light Extravaganza! Drive along the road next to the beautiful Flint River and experience beautiful lighted displays! The event begins on November 26 at 5pm and continues nightly through December 31st.

Whoville Celebration

December 3, 2022 * 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Downtown Enterprise

The annual Whoville Celebration takes place in Downtown Enterprise on December 3, 2022. It is an event that is fun for all ages and boasts local holiday shopping, food trucks, holiday themed activities, music and more. Stop by one of our salon tents for a WHO-do hairstyle makeover to look your best when you take a picture with the Grinch himself! Dress up your four legged friends to compete in Max’s Pet Contest. Channel your inner Cindy-Lou and compete in the Who-Look-Alike Contest. Please visit https://www.enterprisedowntown.com/whoville-2022 for more information.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

December 6-10, 2022 Cultural Arts Center, Dothan SEACT and Wiregrass Drama Club present The Best Christmas Pageant Ever at the Cultural Arts Center, Dec. 6-10. Tickets will be available for sale ($12) on Nov. 21. In this hilarious Christmas classic, a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant is faced with casting the Herdman kids -- probably the most inventively awful kids in history. You won’t believe the mayhem - and the fun - when the Herdmans collide with the Christmas story head-on! This delightful comedy has become a holiday staple across the country. Visit SEACT.com for information.

Dothan Ice & Lights

Through January 14 * 239 N. Foster St., Dothan Ice & Lights ice skating rink will open its doors on Friday, November 25 at 11 a.m. They will re main open through midJanuary so come skate this coming holiday season. There is a skate fee of $10 per person which includes skates. If you’re an avid skater, there is an option to purchase a discount card for $50 per card that includes 8 skates. The Ice and Lights rink will be available for private parties and groups. Please visit www.iceskatedothan.com for more information.

KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

Stress Less This Holiday Season

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! If you’re not careful, this can also become one of the most stressful times of the year. The pressure to have a beautifully decorated home, find the perfect gifts, and have smiling, grateful children at holiday gatherings can put a damper on the joy of the holiday season. It can be very easy to become overwhelmed with the stress of the holidays and miss the opportunity to enjoy this special time with family.

The holidays are typically a busy and potentially chaotic time. Holiday parties and frequent travel plans to join family and friends can put extra demands on time, which can be particularly stressful for children. Sticking to mealtime and sleep schedules as much as possible will help avoid meltdowns. Don’t try to do too much. Simplify schedules as much as possible, leaving more time to spend at home together. Have realistic expectations— babies will fuss, toddlers will have tantrums, teenagers will sulk, and grown-ups will argue. Embrace the imperfections of life and family

and show your children how to recover and move forward when these moments present themselves.

As years go by, children will forget what material gifts they received for the holidays. What they will remember most is the time spent together. Practice limiting screen time. Parents can lead by example by putting phones away at home and leaving work at work as much as possible. Have a list of potential activities and let your children help decide what to do. Activities could include things like baking cookies, making holiday crafts, DIY décor, playing board games, and driving around to look at Christmas lights and decorations.

Many families are already under financial stress with the current economic climate, and with even more financial stress coming with the holidays, don’t feel pressured to overspend on gifts. Instead, help children make gifts they can give to family members. Handmade gifts are often most treasured by parents and

grandparents. Spend time this season to teach children about the gift of giving. Find a volunteer activity together as a family, such as serving a holiday meal at a local shelter or making cards for local nursing home residents. Allow children to help gather old, gently used toys and clothes to donate to those in need.

As a parent, remember to take care of yourself physically and mentally. Children tend to model the behaviors and emotions of their caregivers. This truly is the most wonderful time of the year. Wishing you and your family a healthy and happy holiday season!

Dr. Amanda J. Murray is a General Pediatrician licensed by the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. In September 2018, Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network welcomed Dr. Murray as a physician at Dothan Pediatric Clinic. She is a proud member of the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Autauga County Schools

Wiregrass Museum of Art Partners with Dothan City Schools

Recently announced, the Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is continuing its partnership with Dothan City Schools (DCS) for the 202223 school year, and has aligned its arts learning resources to address identified learning needs for crucial educational benchmarks at the 1st, 4th, and 6th grade levels. Specifically, WMA is helping to address key areas of learning at these grade levels through its in-gallery tours and hands-on learning in the studio.

Field trips and tours at WMA are available for public, private, and homeschool groups throughout the year, and museum staff, docents, and volunteers welcome students of all learning levels and abilities. To schedule a tour, contact Alexandria Turner, School Programs Coordinator and Art Educator, at aturner@wiregrassmuseum.org.

Wiregrass BEST Regional Championship Winners

Congratulations to the winners of Wiregrass BEST, whom competed in the 2022 game of “Made-2-Order.” Houston Academy, Ridgecrest Christian Academy, and Faith Academy will represent Wiregrass BEST at the regional championship to be hosted by South’s BEST in Auburn, Alabama on December 3-4, 2022. Good luck and safe travels!

Houston Academy Wrestlers Win Big

HA’s nine junior high wrestlers hold their own in a pool of 122 wres tlers in Russell County’s Trail Of Tears tournament against Smiths Station, Prattville, Beauregard, as well as several Georgia teams. Wrestlers placing: Jonah Beaver placed 2nd in his weight class with one major decision and one pin for the day. David Sack in his weight class and earned three pins for the day. Keygan Ebarb placed 4th in his weight class and earned three pins for the day. Emmett Payne defeated his Prattville opponent by tech fall (19-4) to place 4th in his weight class. Allen Watkins defeated his Prattville opponent with a 90 second pin and placed 4th in his weight class with two pins for the day. Miller Rane, George Veale, Abe Haskins, and Trip Hilson wrestled hard with Rane and Veale each pinning their first two opponents against Smiths Station and Beauregard.

Carver Student Shines at National Peanut Festival

Congratulations to The Carver School for Mathematics, Science, and Technology student Macy F. on her outstanding accomplishments at the National Peanut Festival. Macy participated in the Poultry Show and won First place in breed, second place in cage decoration, second place in showmanship. She also competed in the Chick Chain Show where she won third in showmanship, grand champion in breed and grand champion for Houston County! Way to go Macy! We are very proud of you. Macy also participated in the 4H program.

Dothan High Named A+ College Ready School of Excellence

We are incredibly proud that our Dothan High School has been named an A+ College Ready School of Excellence! Dothan High is one of only five high schools in the state recognized for meeting and/or exceeding their goals.

Helping navigate the mental health system for teens and children.

Services are FREE and confidential. Services provided by phone are not medical advice and should not be considered as such.

Services are provided via telephone by licensed mental health professionals who recommend the most appropriate mental health resources.

PIRC is available seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.

PIRC is NOT a crisis or suicide hotline. Call for mental health resources.

Faine Elementary Student Participates at Board Meeting

At Dothan City Board of Education’s November meeting, we had the pleasure of having Kam ryn B. from Jerry Lee Faine Elementary School present the Pledge of Allegiance. We are so proud to have students like Kamryn in our district like look forward to involving our students in future Board of Education meetings.

Choose Smart, Focused Advertising with Wiregrass Parents! Call or text (334) 714-7831 or Email ads@wiregrassparents.com. Call or Text 334.986.3667 for details.

Autauga County Schools

Dothan High SGA Raises Money for Cancer

Houston Academy Donates to Mary Hill Family Service Center

A huge thank you to Houston Academy’s National Honor Society for their donation of several boxes full of hygiene products to the Mary Hill Family Service Center’s hygiene closet program. Max delivered the and special thanks to sponsor Shannon Saunders!

Enterprise Fire Department Visit Brookwood Elementary

Brookwood Elementary School hosted Enterprise Fire Department to talk about the importance of a family fire safety plan, smoke

Northside Methodist Announces

Good Citizens

Congratulations to our October Preschool Good Citizens: K3 John Andrew Shoemaker, K4B James Park Hinckley, K4P Barrett Barnwell, K5H Sarah Kate Williams and K5S Emma Fleenor.

Dauphin Junior High Honors Veterans

Thank you to everyone who came out to our program, and a shout out to our own Ms. Sanders for planning and leading this program every year for us. We want to say a special thank you to our veterans for your service. We are grateful to all of the men and women who have fought and served our country. Wishing you and your

SkillsUSA Students of Enterprise Work on Christmas Float

You can say what you want about this generation of young folks, but check out this group of SkillsUSA students from Enterprise High School! We have had some of them staying late every day to help work on this community float for the Christmas. It was really nice seeing them having fun using skills that they have learned in class to help someone else. So look for the Whoville float this year and know that some heart and soul went into designing and constructing it!

Autauga County Schools

Dothan High Students Rewarded as A+ College Ready

Join us in congratulating our 86 students from Dothan High School who were recently recognized and rewarded by A+ College Ready for their

DHS has been named a School Excellence by A+ College Ready for reaching and exceeding their goal of qualifying scores. DHS had 135 qualify-

DHS currently offers 11 AP college-level courses to all 10th through 12th Grade students. Courses include Language and Composition, Literature, US History, Human Geography, Statistics, Calculus, Government, Economics, Biology, Physics, and Research. DHS currently has 264 students

Does it feel like your kids already have more toys than they could ever want? I love the holidays and the spirit of gift-giving, but every year, I wonder what toys my kids could possibly want and where they will go in our already crowded home. Experience gifts are a great gift option that has benefits for kids, parents, and other gift-givers.

Here are some excellent experience gift ideas for every child on your list.

Season pass

One of my family’s favorite gifts is seasonal passes to local attractions. This saves us money and encourages us to get out, enjoy our city, and make memories along the way. Some attractions to consider are zoo admission, a local museum, amusement park tickets, or swimming season passes to the area pool.

Subscription box

A subscription box is a great gift idea especially for tweens and teens who are hard to buy for. They are now available for any age, interest, and price range. So if your child loves science, reading, art, games, or sports, chances are there is a subscription box that will fit their interests.

Classes and camps

Consider giving the gift of prepaid classes or camps that fit your child’s interest. Some ideas include dance, gymnastics, sports, cooking, art, or music. Classes and camps can be expensive but are worth the money and allow kids to try something new.

Travel

Consider combining your holiday and vacation budget by taking a family trip. Whether it’s an overnight trip to a nearby indoor water park or a cross-country trip, traveling is a great way to expose your child to different places and build family memories simultaneously.

Tickets

Tickets to a favorite sporting event, concert, or show is a great idea for a gift for the whole family. Combine the gift with a T-shirt to wear to the event or a backstage tour to make the day more memorable.

Box it up

If your budget is a little smaller, try putting together several things in a box for your child to enjoy. For example, create a movie box with a movie or video rental gift card, candy, popcorn, and a warm blanket so the family can enjoy a movie night at home. Combine art supplies, sketchbooks, paints, and other craft items for an art box. You could also put together a cooking box, ingredients for homemade playdough with cookie cutters, or a gardening box with seeds, gloves, and tools. Get creative and combine your child’s interests to create a customized package.

Adventure gifts

For the adventurous child, look for experience gifts that give them a chance to try something they wouldn’t usually get to do. Some ideas could include horseback riding, fishing, camping, rock climbing, indoor skydiving, or a day at a gym with an obstacle course or trampolines.

With an experience gift, your child will create great memories while enjoying something they may not have had the opportunity to try otherwise. A bonus is that there is no need to store the item after the child has grown tired of playing with it.

Sarah Lyons is a freelance journalist and contributing writer.

Arts & Crafts

Decorating Workshop

Sunday, December 4, 2022, 1:00-4:00 p.m.

@ Landmark Park

430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL 36303

Create wreaths, garlands and swags out of natural materials and decorate Landmark Park for Victorian Christmas, plus make some decorations to take home! Refreshments will be provided. Registration is required. (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

First Saturday Family Day

Sunday, December 4, 2022, 10:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

@ Wiregrass Museum of Art 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL 36303

Free art packets for the first 100 guests. Each packet will contain detailed instructions and all supplies needed, and will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis until they are gone. (334) 794.3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Dive Into Diversity- Jolabokaflod

Wednesday, December 7, 2022, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

@ Dothan-Houston Co. Library System

445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL 36303 December’s story will be celebrating Iceland’s Jolabokaflod book flood.Explore other cultures through books and crafts on traditional holidays and festivals around the globe. Supplies limited! (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org

Night Mare Before ChristmasJack Skillington Ornaments

Thursday, December 8, 2022, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

@ Dothan-Houston Co. Library System

445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL 36303

Hey Tweens and Teens! Drop by the Main Library to learn how to make your very own Jack Skellington ornament. (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org

Ginger Bread Houses

Tuesday, December 13, 2022, 4-4:45 p.m.

@ Dothan-Houston Co. Library System

445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL 36303 (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org

Crafty Teen - Crochet Mug Sweaters

Thursday, December 15, 2022, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

@ Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate Branch 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL 36303

Hey Teens! Drop by the Westgate Branch to make this month’s project. (334) 793-9767 knorth@dhcls.org www.dhcls.org

Benefits & Fundraisers

Country Christmas Car Show Saturday, December 3, 2022, 10a.m.-2p.m. @ Eastgate Park 1949 Sanitary Dairy Rd. Dothan, AL 36303

Country Christmas Car Show to benefit the Toys for Tots. Come out and showcase your car or truck. An unwrapped toy ($25.00) is your only entry fee to help out a great cause at Christmas. (334) 615-3700 www.dothanleisureservices.org

Girls Inc. Mother Daughter Tea

Tuesday, December 6, 2022, 1:00-2:30 or 3:30-5:00 p.m. @ Windmill Station 1369 Headland Ave. Dothan, AL 36303

Guests will enjoy tea style hors d’oeuvre’s, Christmas Ornament making, visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus, cookie decorating, treat bags, and a photo booth. Tickets (before 12/1): $60/couple, Additional Adult $35, Additional Daughter $25. (334) 793-2321 girlsincdothan.org

Miracle on Foster Street Food Drive

Thursday, December 8, 2022, 6:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. 285 N. Foster St. Dothan, AL 36303 Join the Wiregrass Area Food Bank as we collect food and funds to help feed the hungry for the holidays...and hopefully beyond!

BBS Fitness 4th Annual Toy Drive

“Push-Pull Challenge”

Sunday, December 11, 2022, 8:00 a.m. @ BBS Fitness Systems 709 Boll Weevil Cir. Enterprise, AL 36330

Join us for our 4th annual event to benefit the regional Boys & Girls Club, by raising money & toy donations to provide Christmas gifts for children who may not have any otherwise. (334) 797-5360 bbscox2003@yahoo.com

Turkeys from Heaven

Friday, December 23, 2022

@ National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds 5622 US-231 S Dothan, AL 36301

Meet at the NPF Paviion Dec. 22 to grill the turkeys. Meals will be distributed for delivery at the Wiregrass Museum of Art Dec. 23. Turkeys may be purchased at any Dothan Winn Dixie. (334) 797-9376 mrmarsella@gmail.com

Jerusalem Project

@ Fostering Hope 17965 Hwy. 431 Headland, AL 36345

Sponsor foster children for their Christmas gifts. Businesses, individuals, church groups, etc are encouraged to help sponsor children. (334) 699-1563 www.fosteringhopewiregrass.com

Salvation Army Angel Tree

@ Wiregrass Commons Mall

900 Commons Dr., Suite 604 Dothan, AL 36303

Help provide Christmas for low-income children. Typical needs and wants range from clothes to a bicycle. Angels are available for adoption at Wiregrass Commons Mall. (334) 792-1911 salvationarmyalm.org/dothan/

Santa for Seniors

2755 Choctaw St. Dothan, AL 36301

Help bring Christmas joy to Wiregrass seniors. Common requests include groceries, household repairs, and basic necessities. Gift lists published November 5. Gifts will be collected from 9:00 a.m.6:00 p.m. December 5, 10, and 11.

(334) 793-6843 sarcoa.org/santa-for-seniors-2021/

Toys for Tots

Visit website for drop-off locations. (334) 316-6839 thewiregrass.toysfortots.org

Turkey Thanksgiving Meal Drive

@ Fostering Hope

17965 Hwy. 431 Headland, AL 36345

Provide a Thanksgiving meal to a local foster family or the Alabama Baptist Children’s Home for only $40. Donations can be made via PayPal or mail, or dropped off during office hours.

(334) 699-1563 www.fosteringhopewiregrass.com

Dance, Music & Theater

Elf Academy

December 15-17 @ Dothan Civic Center

126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303

Elf Academy is packed with high-energy dance numbers, fantastic music, and hilarious characters! It is a must see for the entire family and will quickly become your favorite holiday tradition! (877) 775-5678 aldanceworks.com

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

December 6-10, 7:00 p.m. nightly

@ Dothan Opera House

115 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303

In this hilarious Christmas classic, a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant is faced with casting the Herdman kids--probably the most inventively awful kids in history. You won’t believe the mayhem - and the fun - when the Herdmans collide with the Christmas story head on! This delightful comedy has become a holiday staple across the country. seact@seact.com www.seact.com

A Christmas Prayer

November 30-December 22, 6:00 p.m. nightly

@ Southern Broadway Dinner Theater 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330

An old-fashioned story of two children whose hope and childlike faith in the prayers they say shine through their circumstance like a ray of light. Their belief in prayer and the magic of Christmas will pull you in. And as you see this heartwarming story unfold and listen to the beautiful songs, you’ll find yourself feeling and remembering what the season is really about. (334) 470-6568 www.southernbroadway.com

My Christmas Angel

Saturday, December 3, 2022, 3-6 p.m.

@ Dothan Opera House 115 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303 Celebrate the greatest season of all with music. www.dothanciviccenter.org

The Very Merry Christmas & More Tour

With NewSong & Francesca Battistelli

Tuesday, December 6, 2022, 7:00 p.m.

@ Dothan Civic Center 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303 Make plans to sing some of your favorite Christmas songs (and maybe some of your new favorite Christmas songs) with NewSong & Francesca Battistelli this December! www.dothanciviccenter.org

John Berry 26th Annual Christmas Tour

Monday, December 19, 2022, 7-9 p.m.

@ Dothan Civic Center

126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303 www.dothanciviccenter.org

Festivals

Christmas at the Farmers Market

Saturday, December 3, 2022, 7:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. @ Enterprise Farmers Market

525 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36360

Make your holidays a little more homemade and enjoy Fresh Produce, Local Vendors, Ornament Painting, Storytime, & Pictures with Santa.

Whoville Holiday Celebration

Saturday, December 3, 2022, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

@ Downtown Enterprise, AL 36330

Holiday Fun for the Entire Family in beautiful

Downtown Enterprise! SAVE THE DATE and Join the fun in Downtown Enterprise as we transform into “Whoville for the Holidays” at our “Whoville Holiday Celebration”! (334) 348-2738 www.enterprisedowntown.org

Victorian Christmas

Sunday, December 11, 2022, 1:00-4:00 p.m.

@ Landmark Park

430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL Sip hot apple cider or hot chocolate while listening to Christmas carols and visiting with Santa. Enjoy old fashioned desserts, arts and crafts, music, wagon rides and handmade decorations. A circuit riding preacher will deliver a holiday message. Admission is free and visitors are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items for donation to the Food Bank. (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Downtown Christmas Festival and Tree Lighting

Saturday, December 10, 2022, 10:30-6:30 p.m.

@ Downtown Dothan, AL 36301

The festival will highlight downtown merchants and restaurants, offer a chance for children to meet Santa, have fun with arts and crafts projects, ride the ÒPolar ExpressÓ train, and so much more! Festivities will end with the official lighting of the City of Dothan Christmas tree at the Dothan Civic Center. (334) 615-3700 www.dothanleisureservices.org

Food Fun

The Ugliest Christmas Sweater Party Ever December 9 and December 16, 7 p.m.

@ Black Cat Bakeshop & Kitchen 123 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330

Tickets $45. Many dress up in sweaters but not required. This is an audience participation event not a dinner show. Guests will be the actors and BCB the hosts and game masters. You may BYOB.

Children 12+ welcome with adults present. (334) 475-4600 Facebook: Black Cat Bakeshop and Kitchen

The Crazy Christmas Catastrophe December 10 and December 17, 6 p.m.

@ Black Cat Bakeshop & Kitchen 123 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330

You are invited by Mrs. Claus and there are a few personalities you would rather not be in the room with. Tickets $40 per person. (334) 475-4600 Facebook: Black Cat Bakeshop and Kitchen

Twas the Grinch Before Christmas Cookie Decorating

Friday, December 23, 2022, 4 and 7 p.m.

@ Black Cat Bakeshop & Kitchen 123 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330

A Grinchy good time will be had by all, pajamas are best for the feast we shall have. (334) 475-4600 Facebook: Black Cat Bakeshop and Kitchen

Light Displays

Gardens Aglow

December 2, 3, 9,10, 16, 17, 23 & 24, 5-8 p.m.

@ Dothan Area Botanical Gardens 5130 Headland Ave. Dothan, AL 36303

Stroll through the Gardens and enjoy the many festive lights and displays. Food trucks will be on site. Admission is $8 per person over age 8. Tick-

ets are timed and must be purchased in advance. (334) 793-3224 www.dabg.com

Christmas on Oakwood Nightly in December @ Westbrook Subdivision Oakwood Drive Dothan, AL 36303

Tune your radio to 98.1fm to listen to the lights and dance to music. Please be mindful of neighbors and others enjoying the lights. Please do not liter or block driveways, and please remain in your vehicles.

Trawick’s Christmas in the Woodlands Nightly in December, 5:00-9:00 Sunday-Thursday 5:00-10:00 Friday and Saturday

Corner of Highway 84 & Boll Weevil Circle Enterprise, AL 36330

Drive-through Christmas light display. Train rides available some dates in December. Free.

Miscellaneous

Wiregrass Community “Messiah” Sing-A-Long

Sunday, December 4, 2022, 5 p.m.

@ First Baptist Church of Enterprise 302 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330

The Wiregrass Community, Messiah Sing-along is created with a desire to provide Coffee County and the Wiregrass Area with a sing-along rendition of Handel’s Messiah. The Sing-along is founded on principles of openness and community - everyone is welcome as the community gathers together in the performance of this celebrated work.

5k & Fun Run with the Grinch

Saturday, December 10, 2022 110 E. College St. Enterprise, AL 36330

Join the Grinch, along with Friends of Main Street for our first annual 5k & Fun Run.

Ice & Lights Downtown Ice Rink

November 25-January 16, Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday 1-8 p.m.; Christmas Day 1-9 p.m.; New YearÕs Eve 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Closed Mondays @ Wadlington Park

North Foster Stree Dothan, AL 36303

$10 per person, includes skate rental. (334) 615-3700 www.iceskatedothan.com

Downtown

Christmas Festival and Tree Lighting

Saturday, December 10, 2022, 3:00 p.m. @ Downtown Dothan, AL 36301

The festival will highlight downtown merchants and restaurants, offer a chance for children to meet Santa, have fun with arts and crafts projects and so much more!

(334) 615-3700 www.dothanleisureservices.org

Where to Shop

Faith’s Treasures

1983 S. Brannon Stand Rd. Dothan, AL 36305

At Faith’s Treasures we strive to give you a unique shopping experience by providing locally made products in addition to other collections we offer. There is a lil’ something for everyone here.

(334) 446-4012 faithstreasures.com

House of Flowers

4440 W. Main St., Suite 1 Dothan, AL 36305

House of Flowers is a full service floral and gift home/office decorating shop that carries some of the finest fresh cut and silk arrangements in our area.

(334) 699-1800 dothanhouseofflowers.com

One of the critical challenges of holiday time is that our children get so used to receiving oodles of gifts that they begin to expect that they will always get more and more. But have you noticed how quickly they lose interest in many toys they receive during the holidays?

Showering our children with gifts every year can end up being detrimental if they become numb to the excitement of presents and focus only on the receiving side of the holidays. However, there are several ways to instill some balance so that our children learn to appreciate what they receive while also giving to others.

Express Gratitude

Gratitude is one of the most important ways to boost happiness, providing us with incredible psychological, physical, and interpersonal benefits. It improves our health, reduces stress, and helps us focus on the positive aspects of life. In addition, teaching our kids how to step back and be thankful for what they have will keep them grounded and help them realize just how lucky they are to receive toys and other gifts at holiday time.

You can encourage your kids to express their gratitude for the gifts they receive by writing thank-you notes to friends and relatives. You can also go around the dinner table and invite everyone to say how grateful they are for each gift and why it is so meaningful to them. Finally, journaling is one of the most popular and effective ways to express gratitude. It encourages our kids to acknowledge the joyous moments in their day, no matter how insignificant they may seem. Consider

giving them their own gratitude journal this holiday season, so they have the perfect place to record what they are thankful for, including their holiday gifts and other special moments throughout the year.

Learn That Less Is More

How many dolls does one little girl really need? If you dig through your children’s old toys, you may be taken aback by how many of each item they have: multiple puzzles, games, cars, trucks, plastic figures, and art supplies. It never ends. When they are showered with too many presents, it reduces the interest value of each toy very quickly. According to Kim John Payne in Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids, kids who are inundated with toys are so overwhelmed that they are unable to play by themselves and can even develop focus issues. It is essential to teach our children how to pick and choose a few special gifts they would like and not go overboard.

Give to the Less Fortunate

The holiday season can quickly become a shopping spree if we are not careful. But this is a particularly critical time of year to remember those who cannot celebrate the holidays like we are with piles of gifts. December

is the perfect time to clean out the playroom and practice some giving. Spend time each year going through every nook and cranny to weed out the old toys before you bring in the new ones. Ask your children to collect piles of items to recycle, throw away, and donate. When the children choose from their own pile of toys, it creates a powerful hands-on experience to learn about the balance between giving and receiving.

After you do this exercise a few times, your kids will automatically realize that no matter what new gifts they receive, they will choose some that they no longer play with to give to children who may not get any presents at all. This is a habit that everyone can easily add to their holiday traditions.

You can also encourage your children to forgo a new gift or two to purchase items for those in need. Look for a holiday toy drive in your community to support and take your kids with you to purchase the items and deliver them to the charity.

Sandi Schwartz is an author, journalist, and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues. As the founder and director of the Ecohappiness Project, her mission is to inspire and educate families to build a nature habit to feel happier and calmer. Learn more at www.ecohappinessproject.com.

Thursday December 1

The Prophecy Show - The Music of Trans-Siberian Orchestra

7:30 PM Dothan Civic Center, 126 N St Andrews St #214 Dothan, Al, 36303 The Prophecy Show - The Music of Trans-Siberian Orchestra http://dothanciviccenter.org/

Story Time

Ozark Dale County Library, Inc, 296 N Union Ave Ozark, AL, 36360 Kids! Join us for Story Time at the Library. We’ll have fun listening to stories, doing crafts and activities, and enjoying a yummy snack, too! Times: 10:30am and 5:00pm. 334-774-5480 http://www.odcpl.com/

Saturday December 3

Meet the Teaching Artists (Free)

10:00 AM - 10:30 AM, Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue Dothan, AL, 36303 Get to know our lovely teaching artists at a short conversation and meet and greet in the Entrance Gallery just before our December First Family Saturday. 334-794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

First Saturday Family Day (Free)

10:30 AM Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue Dothan, AL, 36303 Saturdays are the perfect day for children and families to create and explore art together! First Saturday Family Day, one of WMA’s longest-running educational programs, offers free art activities on the first Saturday of every month. 334-794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Ozark Pokemon League

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Ozark Dale County Library, Inc, 296 N Union Ave Ozark, AL, 36360 Pokémon trainers of all ages and skill levels are invited to battle and trade with other trainers in this exciting trading card game (TCG) and video game! If you’re new to Pokémon, don’t worry! We have a Pokémon Professor who can teach you everything you need to know about battling and trading cards and building your decks.

334-774-5480 http://www.odcpl.com/

Teens Art Club

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Ozark Dale County Library, Inc, 296 N Union Ave Ozark, AL, 36360 We are officially launching an Art Club for teens (ages 13 and up!) at the new Ozark Dale County Library! 334-774-5480 http://www.odcpl.com/

Sunday December 4

Enterprise Christmas Tour of Homes

1:00 PM - 4:30 PM, Various locations, Enterprise, AL Join us on a self guided tour of 6 beautifully decorated homes and 1 business all around our amazing city. Tickets available from Initially Yours, Yancey Parkers, State Farm Insurance downtown Enterprise and all Pilot members.

Coffee County Arts Alliance: Messiah-A Choral Presentation

5:00 PM First Baptist Church, 302 N Main St Enterprise, AL, 36330 Coffee County Arts Alliance: MessiahA Choral Presentation

Tuesday December 6

A Very Merry Arty Pants (Ages 18 months to 4 years; must be accompanied by an adult)

4:00 PM Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue Dothan, AL, 36303 Come celebrate the season and get messy at Arty Pants! Your little one will enjoy creating art in different ways in these special hands-on classes designed for parents and toddlers.

Ages 18 months to 4 years; must be accompanied by an adult 334-794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Lego Club

4:30 PM Ozark Dale County Library, Inc, 296 N Union Ave Ozark, AL, 36360 If you love to build and create with Legos, then Lego Club is just for you! Join us for building challenges, games, and free play! All Legos are supplied and all ages are invited to join the fun! We’ll have Duplo Legos for the younger kids. 334-774-5480 http://www.odcpl.com/

Southeast Alabama Community Theatre presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” 7:00 PM Cultural Arts Center, 909 S St Andrews St Dothan, AL, 36301 In this hilarious Christmas classic, a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant is faced with casting the Herdman kids-probably the most inventively awful kids in history. You won’t believe the mayhem - and the fun - when the Herdmans collide with the Christmas story head on! /www.seact.com

Wednesday December 7

Crafts at Main Library

4:00 PM DHCLS Main Library, 445 N Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Construct your own Gingerbread House with this cute holiday craft project! With candy cane and peppermint accents, these little foam houses make a great yuletide project for your family. This project is for kids ages 5-12 and registration is required. 334-793-9767 https://dhcls.org/

Southeast Alabama Community Theatre presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” Details on December 6.

Thursday December 8

Nightmare Before Christmas- DIY Jack Skellington ornaments

4:00 PM DHCLS Main Library, 445 N Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Hey Tweens and Teens! Drop by the Main Library to learn how to make your very own Jack Skellington ornament. All supplies will be provided for this class. Registration is required. This program is for teens ages 10-18 334-793-9767 https://dhcls.org/

Southeast Alabama Community Theatre presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” Details on December 6.

Story Time

Ozark Dale County Library, Inc, 296 N Union Ave Ozark, AL, 36360 Kids! Join us for Story Time at the Library. We’ll have fun listening to stories, doing crafts and activities, and enjoying a yummy snack, too! Times: 10:30am and 5:00pm. 334-774-5480 http://www.odcpl.com/

Friday December 9

Southeast Alabama Community Theatre presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” Details on December 6.

Saturday December 10

Watercolor Collective

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us in WMA’s garden once a quarter on the second Saturday of March, June, September, and December for an afternoon of watercoloring, drinks, and music. A leisurely, come-and-go free paint party will provide still-life

inspiration within the garden’s flowers, sculptures, and fountains. 334-794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Deaf Youth Bowling

11:45 AM Patricia Lanes, 2208 Ross Clark Cir Dothan, AL, 36303 Deaf/Hard of Hearing middle & high school students can attend - Parents and families are welcome. For more information contact AIDB Dothan RC at Cantu.Donna@AIDB.org https://www.facebook.com/AlabamaDeafCommunityAccessibilityCalendar

Ozark Pokemon League Details on December 3.

Teens Art Club

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Ozark Dale County Library, Inc, 296 N Union Ave Ozark, AL, 36360 We are officially launching an Art Club for teens (ages 13 and up!) at the new Ozark Dale County Library! 334-774-5480 http://www.odcpl.com/

Southeast Alabama Community Theatre presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” Details on December 6.

Tuesday December 13

A Very Merry Arty Pants (Ages 18 months to 4 years; must be accompanied by an adult) Details on December 6.

Crafts at Westgate

4:00 PM DHCLS - Westgate Branch, 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Construct your own Gingerbread House with this cute holiday craft project! With candy cane and peppermint accents, these little foam houses make a great yuletide project for your family. This project is for kids ages 5-12 and registration is required. 334-699-2950 knorth@dhcls.org https://dhcls.org/

Thursday December 15

Crafty Teen

4:00 PM DHCLS - Westgate Branch, 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us to make CD art! All supplies will be provided for this class. Registration is required. Ages 13-18 334-699-2950 knorth@dhcls.org https://dhcls.org/

Story Time

Ozark Dale County Library, Inc, 296 N Union Ave Ozark, AL, 36360 Kids! Join us for Story Time at the Library. We’ll have fun listening to stories, doing crafts and activities, and enjoying a yummy snack, too!

Times: 10:30am and 5:00pm.

334-774-5480 http://www.odcpl.com/

Saturday December 17

Studio Class: Painting with Acrylics ($55 for members; $65 for not yet members)

10:30 AM - 2:30 PM, Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue Dothan, AL, 36303 Experience an immersive atmosphere while painting landscapes and learning the basics of how to paint trees, leaves and the cloudy sky.

334-794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Ozark Pokemon League

Details on December 3.

Teens Art Club

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Ozark Dale County Library, Inc, 296 N Union Ave Ozark, AL, 36360 We are officially launching an Art Club for teens (ages 13 and up!) at the new Ozark Dale County Library!

334-774-5480 http://www.odcpl.com/

FamilyCalendar

Becoming a Novelist with Cap Daniels

5:30 PM - 7:30 PM, DHCLS Main Library, 445 N Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 We’ll explore the fascinating, mysterious, and sometimes exhausting process of turning your writing into marketable, commercially viable literature.

334-793-9767 https://dhcls.org/

Tuesday December 20

A Very Merry Arty Pants (Ages 18 months to 4 years; must be accompanied by an adult) Details on December 6.

Tuesday December 27

A Very Merry Arty Pants (Ages 18 months to 4 years; must be accompanied by an adult) Details on December 6.

Saturday December 31

Pajama Ball: A New Year’s Eve Party

7:00 PM - 12:30 PM, Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us in the museum’s galleries and event spaces to dance among the stars, lounge in the clouds, and make memories as we close one year and enter the next. Ticket holders can enjoy a dance party, the ultimate junk food buffet, and open galleries with tucked-away corners for board games, a movie marathon, fortune-telling, and artmaking.

334-794-3871 https://www.wiregrassmuseum.org/ events/pajama-ball/

Saturday January 2

Birdies For Blues Golf Tournament

11:00 AM Dothan National Golf Club, 7410 US-231 S Dothan, AL, 36301 Teams may register by calling Justin at 334-655-6265 or in person at registration. Proceeds from this tournament will go to Southeast Alabama Baseball Umpires Association to help recruit new umpires. 334-655-6265

Saturday January 7

First Saturday Family Day (Free)

10:30 AM Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue Dothan, AL, 36303 Saturdays are the perfect day for children and families to create and explore art together! First Saturday Family Day, one of WMA’s longest-running educational programs, offers free art activities on the first Saturday of every month.

334-794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Friday January 13

Doug Stone Concert

7:00 PM Dothan Opera House, 115 N St Andrews St Dothan, AL, 36303 Doug Stone concert. www.dothanciviccenter.org

Saturday January 19

Art After Hours (Free for members and $5 for not-yet members) 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM, Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue Dothan, AL, 36303 Come wander the galleries, have a drink at the cash bar, and take in the art on view. 334-794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Saturday January 28

2023 Pike Piddlers Storytelling Festival

We Piddle Around Theater, N Main St Brundidge, AL, 36010 We will be joined by Donald Davis, Tim Lowry, Bil Lepp and Barbara McBride-Smith. There are 3 performances on Saturday. 334-685-5524 http://piddle.org/

Every Monday

Teen Recharge

3:00 PM - 5:30 PM, DHCLS Main Library, 445 N Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 A place for tweens and teens (12-18) to hang out, mess around and geek out with others their age. S.T.E.A.M.-based activities such as robotics, 3D pens, crafts, computer coding, art, video games, etc. will be available to all at no charge. 334-793-9767 knorth@dhcls.org https://dhcls.org/

Every Tuesday

Story & Craft Time

10:30 AM DHCLS Main Library, 445 N Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Story & Craft Time, registration required, crafts are designed for children ages 2-6. 334-793-9767 knorth@dhcls.org https://dhcls.org/

Storytime - Enterprise Library

Enterprise Public Library, 101 E. Grubbs St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Story Time at 10:00pm and 1:00pm. Story Time for ages 0-5 years. 334-347-2636 www.enterpriselibrary.org

Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday

Enterprise Farmers Market

7:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 525 N. Main Street Enterprise, AL, 36330 The Enterprise Farmers Market is a covered, open-air facility where local farmers can sell fresh fruits and vegetables directly to the consumer. The market is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 7 to 11 a.m. 334-348-2668 https://www.facebook.com/enterprisealfarmersmarket

Second and Fourth Tuesdays

Toddler Tales Story Time

3:30 PM Ozark Dale County Library, Inc, 296 N Union Ave Ozark, AL, 36360 Join us for a special Story Time just for toddlers with stories and activities appropriate for ages 4 years old and younger. 334-774-5480 http://www.odcpl.com/

Every Wednesday

Story & Craft Time

10:30 AM DHCLS - Westgate Branch, 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Story & Craft Time, registration required, crafts are designed for children ages 2-6. 334-699-2950 knorth@dhcls.org https://dhcls.org/

Artist Escape

11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, 144 E. Broad Street Ozark, AL, 36360 Stop by Rudd Art Center and bring your art to work on. Join us any Wednesday from 11:00 - 3:00 334-445-6526

Lego Club

3:00 PM - 4:30 PM, Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd Daleville, AL, 36322 Come join us for some fun build challenges or you can enjoy some easy going freestyle building. It is sure to be a fun time for all and best of all it is free! We will meet every Wednesday! (Unless otherwise posted). This program is geared toward Children 6-12 and/or Families. 334-503-9119 http://dalevillepubliclibrary.com/

Every third Wednesday

Master Gardener Lunch and Learn

12:00 PM DHCLS Main Library, 445 N Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join the Wiregrass Master Gardeners Association on the third Wednesday of each month

as they present on a variety of seasonal topics! Don’t forget to bring a bag lunch and enjoy the discussion with experienced gardeners.

334-793-9767 https://dhcls.org/

Every third Thursday Art After Hours

5:30 PM - 8:00 PM, Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue Dothan, AL, 36303 Come wander the galleries, have a drink at the cash bar, and take in art on view. You might even have a chance to speak with one of the exhibiting artists or try your hand at an ingallery activity. Enjoy live music in the galleries from a range of local musicians.

334-794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Planetarium Shows ($3 per person and free for park members)

430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Full dome movies will take place on Fridays at 3:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.; Sundays at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.; and Mondays at 3:30 p.m.

https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/digitariumplanetarium/

Every Saturday

Story & Craft Time

10:30 AM DHCLS - Ashford Branch, 305 6th Ave. Dothan, AL, 36312 Story & Craft Time, registration required, crafts are designed for children ages 2-6. 334-899-3121 knorth@dhcls.org https://dhcls.org/

Every day in December starting December 7

Dive Into Diversity-Dive Into DiversityJolobokaflod

Any DHCLS location, Dothan, AL Explore other cultures through books and crafts on traditional holidays and festivals around the globe https://dhcls.org/

Every day in January starting January 4

Snowman Soup Kits

Any DHCLS location , Beginning January 4, 2023, stop by any DHCLS location to pick up a snowman soup kit. These kits are for kids ages 3-18. While Registration is not required, we kindly ask that you only take one per person. https://dhcls.org/

WP: Let me start by congratulating you on kicking cancer’s butt. Can you share your experience with us?

ED: When I was 13 years old, I was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a bone cancer. I am currently cured and have check-ups. The doctors initially said I had a 10% chance of survival and no chance of having children.

WP: Not only did you survive, but you are also thriving with eight children. What is it like for you and your husband to have a large family?

ED: I met my wonderful husband, and he married me knowing I had cancer and “could not” have children. He read me the scripture of Luke 1:13 when Zechariah was told, “Zechariah, your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.” He told me we would one day have a son (probably through adoption), and we would call him John.

After four years of marriage, the Lord blessed us with our own baby boy, and we named him John. We had baby number eight by the time our oldest was twelve years old. I am SO BLESSED to be a mom, and I want to spend as much time as possible with my children. This is one of the reasons I wanted to homeschool. My family is very close. I love that they are there for one another. There is always a buddy to do something with. I know they won’t be here long before they start their own families.

WP: Homeschooling can be a huge undertaking. What advice would you offer a mom considering homeschooling for her child/children?

ED: There are so many resources today for homeschooling. Never think you can not do it. There are many ways to homeschool; you just have to find the resources to fit your family.

When my oldest was four years old, I started looking at my school options. I called all the private schools to see the prices and researched the public schools in our area. I also considered homeschooling, and I decided to try it. I figured if I ruined him in kindergarten and did a terrible job, it wouldn’t be the end of the world. I could put him in school the following year.

We started homeschooling in 2004. We were very blessed to get into Ridgecrest Christian School, and there was a wealth of knowledge and resources to help with the homeschooling journey.

My number one tip is to choose your child, not the curriculum. If it is a tough day, close the book and take a walk with your child. Enjoy them! You can get back to the textbook tomorrow.

WP: You are married, homeschooling, and have eight kids. I imagine it can quickly get exhausting some days. What are some ways you avoid mom burnout?

ED: The Lord knew I needed a great man to keep me focused on what is important. When I start stressing, my husband keeps me laughing. He helps me keep my eyes where they belong and reminds me to lay things down at the Lord’s feet and that I don’t need to pick up the day’s burdens.

I also love to listen to 94.3 on the radio. Praise and worship just fills me up again. It gives me precious reminders.

Lastly, I am very thankful my husband gives me a kiss and hug every morning. This helps me to get through the day. Each of my boys knows how important hugs are to me, so they also give me a hug in the morning. It is the little things that matter.

WP: What is one piece of advice you would like to go back and give your younger self?

ED: Every day is a gift. Every birthday is another year the Lord has given me. So try to use every day for His glory, no matter what the day will hold.

Elizabeth Duke and her husband, William, have been married for 27 years. They have eight children, six boys, and two girls, ranging from 23 to 10 years old. Her husband is a veterinarian at Care Animal Clinic. They have adopted two dogs and are the proud owners of a turtle, a bearded dragon, and a hermit crab. The family has always been involved with the Boys and Girls Scouts of America and other activities like Taekwondo, Firefighter Explorers, theatre, and piano.

Elizabeth Duke