the intermix story page 6 COVER SPONSOR at lincoln children’s museum page 20 holly jolly happenings
Lincoln Kids Coloring Contest
NAME:
Bring this sheet to life with your best colors, and send a photo of it to hello@lnkkids.com or mail it to the Lincoln Kids office:
701 P Street, Suite 202 Lincoln, NE 68508
You will be entered to win a $500 gift card to Cycle Works for a brand-new bike! Must be 13-years-old or younger to enter the contest. Winner will be drawn on Wednesday, January 8.
Christine Weeks Mackenzie
Slivka
letter from the editor
Dear Lincoln Kids Readers,
Jacque
Genovese
Andrea Caverzagie
Nathan
Lake
Sean
Flattery
Jodi Richey
Sheena Rancourt
As the crisp winter air settles in and the holiday season approaches, I’m filled with excitement for all the fun family memories ahead. Winter is truly a magical time in Lincoln, offering so many chances to connect, explore, and enjoy the season’s magic together. I’m especially looking forward to watching my daughter dance in intermix’s Laughing All the Way recital (page 6.)
Whether you are headed to the Lincoln Children’s Museum (page 20), staying in to make birdseed ornaments (page 35), or entering the coloring contest to win a $500 gift card to Cycle Works (page 2), there’s something for everyone!
This time of year can get busy, but I encourage you to take a moment to savor the little things: the warmth of a shared meal, the sparkle in your kids’ eyes as they experience the holidays, or even a quiet moment snuggling up to watch a movie. These are the moments that make the season truly special.
We’re also excited to share heartwarming stories, like Hayden’s journey growing up on a Nebraska farm (page 16), and the inspiring work of Linked2Literacy, helping to build a community of readers (page 13). These stories remind us of the strong connections and traditions that make Lincoln such a wonderful place to raise a family.
We hope this edition brings you joy, inspiration, and new ideas for making the most of this winter.
Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday season!
Elizabeth Fischbach
Emma Lauterbach
Editor-in-Chief
Moving Beyond the Barre
The intermix Story
Christmas Spirit Comes to Life with intermix Dance Company’s Laughing All the Way
Kick off the holiday season with sparkle and joy at intermix Dance Company’s original holiday show, Laughing All the Way! Mark your calendars for Thursday, December 5 at 6:00 PM. Watch four friends embark on a fun-filled trip to New York City, where they discover their favorite parts of the holiday season and the true meaning of
Dance Dreams Come True
Joy Tonniges founded intermix Dance Company in 2011. She envisioned a competitive dance company where young dancers could thrive. Whether students want to sharpen their skills, compete, or simply enjoy dancing, intermix provides the tools and training they need. Joy built the foundation for a studio that focuses on excellent technical training while keeping dance fun and accessible for all.
In 2012, her teaching partner, Kallie Easley, joined the team, helping to shape the future of intermix. In 2017, Joy passed the leadership baton, trusting Kallie to carry on the intermix legacy. With a focus on both high-level performance and personal growth, the studio was designed to nurture young dancers into both skilled artists and well-rounded individuals.
A Growing and Thriving Dance Company
intermix began with just 12 dancers and has since grown into a vibrant company of over 50 competitive dancers. Additionally, they run a successful studio program for non-competitive students. They have more than 20 teachers and staff, all dedicated to providing high-quality dance education. The company’s state-of-the-art facility features three studios with floating floors, offering dancers the proper environment to hone their skills.
From its early days to now, intermix continues to expand, offering more opportunities and programs for dancers of all levels and interests.
A Range of Dance Styles to Explore
At intermix, ballet is the cornerstone of the dance program. It serves as the foundation for every dancer, helping them develop the core techniques needed for all other styles. They also offer a strong program in jazz, tap, hip hop, lyrical, leaps and turns, technique, and pointe – but the variety doesn’t stop there. For those interested in dance team performance, intermix’s Dance Team Tech program includes pom and All-Star training, helping students prepare for future dance teams and collegiate dance careers.
Additionally, the company partners with Brigata to offer tumbling and acrobatic training, and brings in guest teachers to provide ballroom lessons, ensuring a well-rounded dance education for their students.
Welcoming Dancers of All Ages
intermix offers classes for dancers as young as two-years-old through its Baby Bops program. This fun and engaging introduction to dance allows toddlers to explore movement and rhythm while having a great time. As they grow, students can move through various age-appropriate programs designed to support their development as dancers.
Unique Class Formats
One of the exciting aspects of the intermix studio program is its combo class format. Instead of signing up for separate ballet, jazz, and tap classes, students can experience multiple styles in a single class. This gives them a comprehensive introduction to dance without requiring them to attend multiple classes each week. This flexible format is perfect for students who want to pursue other activities while still exploring the world of dance.
Leading with Excellence
Kallie’s goal was simple: to continue the high standards Joy set for intermix. The studio strives to prepare students for whatever dance goals they have in mind – from joining high school teams to pursuing professional dance careers. At intermix, it’s about more than just dance skills. The staff takes pride in developing strong, confident, and kind individuals. Characterbuilding is a key part of the program, helping students grow into remarkable people both on and off the dance floor.
Whether students are looking to improve their skills, perform in memorable shows like Laughing All the Way, or simply have fun learning new styles, intermix Dance Company has something to offer everyone.
To learn more and enroll in classes, visit intermixdance.com or call (402) 904-6753.
Our intermix cover dancer is senior Tate Boesiger, photographed by Jennifer Schultz.
Winter Crossword Puzzle
DOWN:
2. A winter sport played on ice with sticks and a puck.
3. A circular decoration made of evergreen branches, often hung during the holidays.
6. A dome-shaped shelter made from blocks of snow.
7. An orange vegetable used as a snowman’s nose.
8. A warm piece of fabric worn around the neck in the winter.
10. A tree that stays green all year round, often used as a Christmas tree.
11. Shoes with blades attached, used to glide on ice.
12. Frozen precipitation that falls in soft, white flakes.
ACROSS:
1. A vehicle used for traveling over snow, often pulled by horses or reindeer.
4. The first month of winter.
5. An animal known for pulling Santa’s sleigh.
9. Hot _____ ; A warm drink made from chocolate, milk, and sugar.
12. A unique ice crystal that falls from the sky during snowfall.
13. A type of glove that covers the fingers together, keeping them warm.
15.
14. A black-and-white bird that lives in cold stacked on top of each other. regions and cannot fly. A figure made of three snowballs
Write your own Winter Adventure
You get to choose what happens next. Does the situation spark an unexpected encounter with a certain reindeer? Perhaps something magical is in the air. The story is yours to continue!
PROMPT #1:
You could feel the change in the air. As the wind picked up, the leaves on Rock Island Trail began to dance, and snow started to fall.
PROMPT #2:
Overnight, the Haymarket had transformed into a winter wonderland, twinkling lights strung over snow-covered streets, and the scent of hot cocoa filled the air. The 12 Days of Winter festival was in full swing, but this year, something felt different. There was a clopping of hooves and…
PROMPT #3:
Holmes Lake had frozen over; its surface a perfect sheet of glass reflecting the pale winter sun. But as you laced up your skates and stepped onto the ice, you felt a strange vibration beneath your feet.
PROMPT #4:
Lincoln was buzzing with excitement as everyone prepared for the grand New Year’s Eve countdown. The skyline was ablaze with fireworks as the city counted down the final seconds of 2024. It was then that you noticed the…
December 14th at 2pm & 7pm
December 15th at 2pm
Shari True, Artistic Director
For tickets call the Lied Center Box Office at 402 472 4747 or visit liedcenter org
Raising Healthy Eaters
Small Changes for Lifelong Healthy Eating Habits
BY SHERRI THOMAS, DO
Growing up in the 80s with two working parents, our meals were often frozen or boxed, including sugary cereal for breakfast. This felt normal because it’s what our family did. When I struggled with my weight in adulthood, it felt all-consuming to change lifelong eating habits.
As an Obesity Medicine physician, when my adult patients report snacking on highly processed foods like chips or snack cakes, I often hear them say: “My kids don’t have weight problems so they can eat them.” Many parents don’t realize how heritable overweight and obesity are. If one parent has obesity, there is a 50% chance their child will have obesity in adulthood. If both parents struggle with weight, their child’s risk increases to 80% in adulthood. Teaching them healthy eating habits as children prevents them from developing unhealthy eating habits when they grow up – like many of us have done!
We can’t expect ourselves or our kids to make huge, sustainable dietary changes overnight, but everyone is more likely to be successful when families make them together.
Sherri Thomas, DO, is a board-certified Obesity Medicine and Internal Medicine physician, as well as a mom of three boys. She is the owner of Nebraska Weight & Wellness and the founder of the Nebraska Obesity Society.
Choose one change to work on every few weeks and build on successes. Consider the following:
Phase out ALL sweetened beverages – yes, even 100% fruit juice. Move toward water and milk being the only kid-friendly beverage options. Low-sugar sports drinks can be appropriate when participating in moderate to high-intensity sports or high heat. Let kids pick out reusable water bottles or decorate ones you already have. Experiment with adding fresh fruit for flavor.
Incorporate one serving of both fruit and veggies into each meal. At our house, kids only need to finish whatever fruit and veggies are on their plate before leaving the table.
Be mindful of protein intake. Studies show that children under age 10 who consistently eat more than 10 grams of protein per meal have higher rates of obesity. An 8 oz. glass of milk (8 grams of protein) can be sufficient for them.
Include kids in meal planning and preparation. When they choose strawberries and cherries for dinner, or if they peel the cucumbers or carrots, they are more likely to enjoy eating the fruits of their labor.
Phase out highly processed snacks with the ‘Water Test.’ If it loses its shape or dissolves under water, it’s highly processed. Replace chips with individually packaged nuts, jerky, or candy-free trail mix instead.
Eat together. Families who eat dinner together at least three times per week are more likely to maintain normal body weights. Whenever possible, cook together too.
Remember, it’s not about perfection. It’s about small, sustainable changes that, over time, add up to healthier eating habits, not just for ourselves, but for the whole family!
Building a Community of Readers
Do you remember the joy of picking a bedtime story for your parents to read? Many of us grew up surrounded by books, but not all families have such easy access to quality reading materials today. While many parents are filling bookshelves for their own children, some families struggle to provide books at home.
Linked2Literacy (L2L), a nonprofit organization based in Lincoln, is working to change that. Founded just two years ago, L2L is on a mission to inspire generations by providing inclusive books and literacy education through community-based programs. It started with book drives for children in foster care, hospitals, and women’s shelters, but quickly grew into a comprehensive literacy initiative to provide books for children in need statewide. Today, L2L has delivered more than 34,000 brand-new, high-quality books to children and families throughout the community.
Why is this work so important?
Childhood literacy is one of the strongest indicators of a child’s future success. Two-thirds of children who do not read proficiently by the end of 4th grade are more likely to face challenges such as poverty or incarceration. This gap is even greater for underserved children. L2L tackles these systemic barriers by connecting with community organizations who serve the children, youth, and families who need literacy resources the most.
Here are some of the impactful programs L2L offers:
EMpowerME Packs: 800+ backpacks filled with brand new books for kids in foster care
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library: 3,800+ children registered to receive new books monthly from birth to age five
TeamMates Partnership: Literacy resources distributed throughout Nebraska to mentors and mentees
Book Bridge: Workshops for families to help parents and caregivers read to children in more meaningful ways
Unbound: Book clubs for kids in grades 3 - 8 to spark meaningful conversations
WORDSTOCK: An annual community book swap festival with free books for all ages
As a parent, guardian, or caregiver, you already know that empowering children through reading is one of the best gifts we can give. L2L’s work is made possible through the support of volunteers and donors, and every contribution helps expand its reach. When children thrive through literacy, our entire community thrives.
Want to get involved or learn more? Visit linked2literacy.org.
Email kat@linked2literacy.org to request a speaker.
BECOME A SUPERNOVAS RISING STAR!
Navigate your way through the volleyball maze and unlock your spot in the Supernovas Rising Star Kids Club!
Kids 12 and under can shine alongside their favorite Supernovas as part of the Rising Stars Kids Club. For just $20, your child will score a ticket to the Kids Club match, join the players for a fun-filled pizza party and be part of the Supernovas high-five tunnel!
From Farm Fields to 4-H: Hayden’s Journey
BY KERI SANNE
For the Bartling family, farming is more than just a tradition – it’s a legacy where the health of the land and livestock comes first. For the past 125 years, they have nurtured their commercial swine operation by having each generation pass on knowledge and skills to the next.
From Johann and Johanna Bartling’s first steps on Nebraska soil in the late 1800s to 11-yearold Hayden Bartling learning the ropes today, the focus has always been on bettering the practice. That’s how you uphold tradition for six generations while evolving to utilize the latest in sustainable agriculture. By working with his grandpa on the farm and learning lessons in 4-H, Hayden is the next generation of the Bartling family.
From Horse Power to Horsepower
Hayden’s great-great-grandpa started the farm by plowing and harvesting the fields with horses. With each generation, the Bartling family farm has thrived through innovation. When his greatgreat-grandpa invested in a 50-horsepower tractor, it revolutionized their operations. Fast forward to today, and Hayden’s great-grandpa marvels at a 320-horsepower tractor guided by satellite auto-steer technology. The family farm’s journey is a testament to embracing change while honoring its roots.
Despite today’s technological advances, owning livestock is a constant process of daily feeding and care. Hayden takes pride in the adventures and lessons learned from his time growing up on the farm with his family.
“My favorite thing to do on the farm is to help wean and do chores with my grandpa,” Hayden said. His uncles and cousins make these experiences memorable for him. Chores are a daily occurrence on the farm. For Hayden, feeding, watering, and weaning the pigs twice a week can never go undone.
Exploring Life Lessons with Grandpa
Hayden has already learned the importance of hard work; however, he always finds a way to explore each corner of the farm. Not only does Hayden’s family raise commercial hogs, but they also grow corn and soybeans.
They later use the corn to feed their pigs. During harvest, Hayden and his cousins get to ride in the combine with his grandpa and greatgrandpa. “I love to be able to go out there and help my grandpa and run around on the farm,” says Hayden. “I love exploring!” Moments like this are the ones he enjoys the most.
“My grandpa and mom grew up doing 4-H, so they got me started in it,” said Hayden, enthusiastically adding, “I have loved doing it since!”
Family Traditions to Personal Passion in 4-H
Hayden’s connection to agriculture is further enriched by his involvement in 4-H, a program that strives to include hands-on learning and community engagement.
Hayden has been in 4-H for three years, and so far, he has learned more about how to pay close attention to his pigs to make sure they don’t get sick.
Along with making sure the pigs are healthy, Hayden feeds, waters, and washes them. Keeping the pigs in a clean environment is extremely important, so he makes it a priority to clean the pig pens when necessary. Hayden explains, “I know how to raise and take care of our animals. But also, I learn the hard work farmers put in every single day to feed everyone!”
The Next Generation
From the first generation to the sixth, Hayden’s small-town Nebraska roots continue to grow with the knowledge of the generations that came before him. “We all get to go down and ride the combine with grandpa or great-grandpa during harvest, and that’s always fun!” As the seasons change, they bring not only new tasks on the farm but also a cherished sense of continuity and connection to Hayden’s family’s legacy.
Register at ymcalincoln.org/events Thanksgiving
Holly Jolly Happenings at Lincoln Children’s Museum
It’s the most magical time of the year… at the Lincoln Children’s Museum. Holly Jolly Happenings planned throughout December offer handson learning experiences, crafts, and special appearances to help kids andw adults get in the holiday spirit and create festive memories. Check out the upcoming events.
Become a Member
If you are planning to attend our Holly Jolly events, or if you plan to visit the museum with your family this winter, consider becoming a member!
A membership at our special rate pays for itself in as little as two visits for a family of four.
Special $99 Rate with promo code ELF2024
Code valid until December 31, 2024.
For more membership and event details, visit lincolnchildrensmuseum.org
Looking for gift ideas?
A Lincoln Children’s Museum membership is the perfect experience-based gift that lasts all year. With many fun-filled, family events and great discounts on camps and special programs, it is truly the gift that keeps on giving!
Candy House Fundraiser starting November 25 while supplies last
This take-home decorating kit is like an easy-button hack for the traditional holiday gingerbread house. Will your family make Santa’s Toy Shop or maybe a home for a holiday gnome? Any way you choose to create it, you will be supporting the Museum!
The cardboard house creates a sturdy base so you can focus on the fun decorating. With a $25 donation to the Lincoln Children’s Museum, you’ll receive a kit that includes:
– One sturdy cardboard house on a Styrofoam base
– White, red, and green frosting
– Cereal, gum drops, hard candies, candy canes, marshmallows, and other fun items to help decorate your very own candy house
Storytime with Santa December 21
1:30 – 4:30 pm
Santa is making a pit-stop at the Lincoln Children’s Museum for this Super Saturday event! Enjoy a special storytime and a holiday photo opportunity. Museum membership or daily general admission grants you access to this special day; no additional ticket required to attend.
– Storytime at 2:00 pm
– Photo opportunity with Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves, and the sleigh
– Hands-on activities including crafting your very own reindeer food
Make Believe Midnight December 31 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Ring in the New Year before bedtime! This event offers a unique way to celebrate the new year! Museum membership or daily general admission grants you access to this special day of play; no additional ticket required to attend.
– Multiple bubble drop and pop countdowns throughout the day
– Free party favors while supplies last – Hands-on activities and make-and-take crafts
– All-day dance party
– Special presentations by Dr. Oxygen
Holiday Treats
Indulge in these kid-friendly, holiday treats. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, these goodies are a must-have for any holiday table!
Full recipes here
Crescent Cornucopias
For a fun way to serve snacks, look no further than the Crescent Roll Cornucopias. Just wrap your crescent dough around cone-shaped foil and bake. Fill with your favorite healthy fillings such as cheese, veggies, or nuts!
Ingredients & Materials
– Refrigerated crescent roll dough – Aluminum foil
– Vegetables – Cheese cubes – Baking sheet
Strawberry Santas
Slice your strawberries in half, hamburger style. Place the flat half on the bottom. In between the two halves, put a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt, as a healthier alternative. To finish them off, put a much smaller dollop on the tip of the strawberry to complete the hat!
Ingredients & Materials
– 12 strawberries – 1 C. Greek yogurt or whipped cream – Black sesame seeds – Knife
– Piping bag (for best results)
New Year’s Eve
Coconut Balls
Take dried coconut shreds and mix them in a large bowl with sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and salt. Combine and roll into balls. Cover the balls in edible gold glitter to match the ball that drops in New York City! Chill in the fridge for thirty minutes and serve.
Ingredients & Materials
– 3 C. shredded coconut
– 1 C. sweetened condensed milk
– 1 tsp. vanilla extract
– ¼ tsp. salt
– Gold edible glitter
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Mixing bowl
– Mixing spoon
Santa is lost! While trying to find his sleigh, he found Lincoln Orthodontics.
"Santa, are you lost?" Dr. Willett asked.
"Yes! Can you help?"
"First, let's straighten that smile of yours!" Dr. Willett laughed, giving Santa a quick tune-up.
With his jolly and bright smile, can you help Santa navigate through the floss and find his sleigh?
Family Memberships start at $69 - Enjoy unlimited access to Morrill Hall, including special events, discounts on camps and birthday parties museum.unl.edu/membership
HEY, YOU!
Did we catch your eye? If so, just think about all the reach that advertising in Lincoln Kids can bring.
Learn about our affordable rates, digital advertising, and flexible packages by emailing hello@lnkkids.com!
Winter Break Hours
December 23-25 | Closed • December 26-28 | Open |9am-5pm December 29 |Open |12-5pm • December 30-January 1 | Closed January 2, 2025 - Museum resumes normal operating schedule
Thank you, Barrett, age 9, for submitting your art to be featured! If you have artwork you’d like to share, send a picture of it to hello@lnkkids.com.
Lincoln Moms of Lincoln Kids
The giggles, the wiggles, and the belly laughs. The Moms of these Lincoln kids welcome every joyous moment, every challenge, and everything in between. These inspiring women balance careers, community involvement, and parenting with grace and humor.
Meet the Moms
Ashley is a proud mom of three, who embraces every moment of motherhood –from quirky kid phrases to surprise notes from her daughter. When she’s not cheering them on, she’s running Script MedSpa in Lincoln, where her passion for medical aesthetics helps others feel their best. Spreading joy and confidence is her specialty!
Courtney juggles her roles as mom, mentor, scholar, and government official with grace. Motherhood may be tough, but she believes every challenge is worth it for the rewarding moments. She’s mastered the art of balancing it all—while still making room for some fun.
Mary is a dedicated mom of two young boys. She loves watching their unique personalities shine. With five years in the medical field, she’s passionate about her work and grateful to do what she loves every day.
Ashley Gunderson
Tell us about your kiddos.
Lofton is 10, Baylor is 7, and Boston is 5.
What do you love about being a mom?
Everything! The good, the bad, the ugly. I have loved watching their personalities shine through as they have grown older. Although it may be chaotic at times, I have learned to embrace it all. They grow up way too fast! Being a mom has given me a type of happiness I never knew was possible. The unconditional love I have for them is unmatched.
What do you love about your career?
I have worked in several medical settings, but knew I was destined for something bigger when I was introduced to the aesthetics industry. This summer, I opened up Script MedSpa with my wonderful business partner and husband, Travis. I have a deep passion for medical aesthetics, and love using my skills, artistic eye, and compassion to help my patients look and feel their best!
What is the best advice you’ve received about motherhood?
It’s okay to ask for help! It takes a village.
What are you currently listening to?
I have been listening to The Mindset Mentor podcast and it has been so great for my mental health. I also love any podcast with Dr. Stacy Sims!
What are cute things that your kids are saying or doing?
They love saying “chicken nugs and momma’s hugs.” I’m no longer “Mom” I’m “Jo Momma.”
My daughter has one of the biggest hearts. I will randomly find “love” notes from her around the house. It is one of the highlights of my day!
Courtney McCoy
Tell us about your kiddos.
MacKenzie is 11 and Layne is 9.
What do you love about being a mom?
I love that my kids are interested in activities that I did not participate in as a child. I get to learn and experience new things with them, and I learn from them just as much as they learn from me. It is the coolest thing to see small parts of yourself expressed in big ways in your children.
What do you love about your career?
I work as a Corrections Sergeant for the Lancaster County Department of Corrections. I never saw myself in this career, let alone working at the jail for as long as I have. That is what I love about it! The career seems to have chosen me. Very rarely are two days identical and I have the ability to use so many skills. I am allowed to be a problem solver, people person, mentor, mediator, scholar, trainer, student, government official, and just Courtney all in the same role.
What is something that you are reading or watching right now?
I recently finished, You Shouldn’t Have Come Here by Jeneva Rose. It was a nice read with a good twist. I am forever watching a Real Housewives franchise, my guilty pleasure.
What are cute things that your kids are saying or doing?
One thing they both do that is phenomenal to see is volunteer and support others. Recently, we all attended my graduation from my graduate program. Layne would greet every graduate he saw and say, “Hello, congratulations on your graduation!”
My daughter was recently injured and sidelined from her activities, but she still asked to attend games and events to keep involved and support her friends.
Mary Thomas
Tell us about your kiddos.
Matthew is 3 and Connor is 10-months-old.
What do you love about being a mom?
I love watching the boys interact with one another and getting to see their personalities develop.
What do you love about your career?
I have worked in the medical field for five years now, and I am grateful that I get to do what I love every day.
What’s the best advice you’ve received about motherhood?
Just because your child isn’t where society says they should be developmentally, doesn’t mean you’re failing them. You’re not a bad parent, kids develop at their own pace, give them time.
What is something that you are reading or watching right now?
I am really into true crime shows. After the boys fall asleep, I love diving into a series that keeps me on the edge of my seat.
What are cute things that your kids are saying or doing?
Connor has been crawling all over the place, and when we’re at home, Matthew likes to follow him. He announced that he needed to follow Connor because he is “going on an adventure, silly baby Connor!” Lots of belly laughter ensued.
Spot the difference
Can you find the 10 differences between the two pictures?
10) The wrapping paper on the present is different.
7) The
3) The tick marks on the clock are not the same. 4) The big
How to (maybe) get a Snow Day!
There’s a long list of ways to try and get a snow day, here are some you may not have heard of!
Put a spoon under your pillow.
The larger the spoon, the better the chance! It might be uncomfortable at first but a day full of snowball fights, snowmen, and sledding might just be worth it.
Wear your pajamas inside out AND backwards.
Make sure to only do this one in your own home or you might get some crazy looks. Wearing your pajamas like this might confuse the weather enough for it to snow.
Throw ice cubes out the front door or flush them down the toilet.
You have to inspire the outside somehow! By sending ice out, you’re giving a nudge to the weather that you need it to snow. A little will go a long way on this one.
Place a white crayon on the window sill.
If you want your front yard covered in white snow, you’ll need a matching white crayon. Place a white crayon on the window sill to let the sky know that you want snow!
Yell “snow day” into the freezer.
The freezer is cold, and the outdoors should take the hint. It’s a no-brainer that this will inspire the air outside to turn chilly and snowy.
Eat a scoop of ice cream for dessert.
If you want there to be rolling hills of white outside, make sure to eat at least one yourself – after dinner of course.
Only try these tips when you really, really want a snow day, otherwise, the weather might call your bluff!
1) The circles on the garland are different. 2) The colors of the fairy's outfit have changed.
nutcracker's pants are a different color.
5) The color of the pom-pom on the big nutcracker's hat has changed. 6) The pattern on the big nutcracker’s drum is different.
trim pattern on the girl’s dress is different.
8)
The color of the girl's ballet slippers has changed. 9) The small nutcracker's pants are a different color.
Winter Adventure in Lincoln
Find a friend, grab a pencil, fill in the blanks, and roll with laughter.
It’s a winter morning in Lincoln, and snow is falling outside your window. You put on your and head out the door, ready for a day full of fun. First stop: The Rail Yard! You try out ice skating for the first time. The ice is , and you glide across it like a , doing twirls!
After that, you meet up with your friends at , where you all build the biggest snowman ever seen. Instead of the usual carrot nose, you give your snowman a and a hat made of . Everyone laughs!
Next, it’s time for a snowball fight! You launch snowballs as fast as you can. Your team scores snowball hits in a row, leaving everyone feeling . To celebrate, you head over to The Mill for some and a giant .
Feeling recharged, you decide to take your sled to Pioneers Park. The hill there is as tall as , and you zoom down at miles per hour, shouting "Whee!" as you race past tracks in the snow. By the time you reach the bottom, you're laughing so hard, your hurts!
At the end of the day, you head home, snuggle into your blankets, and dream of more winter adventures in Lincoln. What a(n) day!
Noun: person, place, thing, or idea
Verb: an action (it doesn’t always,
Adjective: describes a noun
Adverb: describes a verb or how an action is done, (example: quickly) but can end in -ing or -s)
2023 PRISM Award Winners
From pediatrics and obstetrics to well-child checks and immunizations, we o er comprehensive healthcare to monitor growth and early-age development. We personalize your care, going above and beyond with extra support like chronic disease and care management services to educate you on healthy lifestyle choices and treatments.
StarTran | Nex t Stop Marketing Campaign
Bluestem Health | Website Design
Le Quar tier | Social Media Campaign
Obstetrics
Lancaster Count y Corrections | Marketing Campaign
Ember | Logo Design
Chocolate Lovers Fantasy | Vir tual Event
TMCO | Print Collateral
Acute Care Immunizations Preventative Care
Winter Wonderland Word Search
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 | 8 AM - 11 AM The
Birdseed Ornaments
What you need:
2 C. birdseed
2 packets unflavored gelatin
3 Tbsp. corn syrup
½ C. water
6 cookie cutters
3 drinking straws Twine
1. Make gelatin in a large bowl.
2. Once the gelatin has dissolved, add corn syrup and stir until it, too, has dissolved.
3. Add in your birdseed and place the bowl in the fridge for about ten minutes.
4. Set your cookie cutters out on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Spoon the mixture into the cookie cutters, making sure to press it down to get into every nook and cranny. Fill to the top.
6. Cut your drinking straws in half and poke them through the top of your ‘cookie’ to create a hole.
7. Place the pan in the refrigerator overnight to allow the ornaments to harden.
8. In the morning, carefully remove them from the cookie cutter, thread a loop of twine through the hole, and tie a knot.
9. Hang your ornaments outside and watch the birds flock to your creation!
Find full instructions at onelittleproject.com/birdseed-ornaments/
Once the holidays pass, it is time to clean up. During this season, Lincoln Transportation and Utilities Solid Waste sees a significant increase in material recycled. This is great! Recycling is a gift you can continuously give to our planet. To ensure your recycling efforts make the biggest and most positive impact possible, here are some recommendations from your fellow avid recyclers.
These items CAN be recycled:
Plain Gift Paper and Paper Gift Bags
No glitter, lamination, or other embellishments.
Holiday Cards and Envelopes
Cardboard
Clean corrugated cardboard is banned from the Lincoln Landfill. Be sure to flatten your boxes to save room for others and please remove any Styrofoam or other packing materials.
Luckily, Lincoln holds an annual collection of lights for recycling to benefit Eastridge Elementary PTO. The holiday lights drive occurs from November 15 - January 10. Collection totes will be at all the fire stations in Lincoln. Totes will also be at Eastridge Elementary School.
Batteries and Electronics
They don’t belong in your bin! These items are dangerous and can cause fires when placed in the recycling bin or trash. Batteries contain hazardous materials inside that can easily catch fire if punctured. Use the ‘What Bin Does It Go In?’ app at Lincoln.ne.gov/recycle to determine where to take your old electronics.
Bows and Ribbons
While some parts of gift wrapping are recyclable, please do not include bows, ribbons, or embellished wrapping papers. These items should all be reused or placed in the trash.
Plastic Bags
These tangle in recycling machinery and do not belong in the bin. If you are looking to recycle plastic bags, take them to the collection bins at the front of most grocery stores or research the Hefty ReNew Program.
LITTLE SPROUTS PRESCHOOL
CALVERT RECREATION CENTER
NATURE PRESCHOOL
PIONEERS PARK NATURE CENTER lincoln.ne.gov/preschool
JUNIOR ROBOTICS
IRVING RECREATION CENTER
January 26 - March 2
Sundays from 2:30-4:30 PM
Hands-on program for children ages 6-9 yrs building interest in science and engineering. Call (402) 441-7954 for information.
PRAIRIE RUN
Saturday, November 16 at 9 AM
PIONEERS PARK NATURE CENTER
Support the Nature Center and prairie preservation with this one mile walk/run or 5K run will take you through the prairie. Get the family together for this run! Ages 5+ getmeregistered com (keyword: Prairie Run)
ADAPTIVE RECREATION
EASTERDAY RECREATION CENTER Programs for people with intellectual or physical needs from ages 2 and up. Call (402) 441-7877 for info
DIRECTORY
Child Care & Education
Community Action Head Start and Early Head Start
FREE high-quality early childhood education services for families from pregnancy to age 5. Home-based and center-based program options are available. Head Start and Early Head Start are year-round, full-day programs. Families with low income or receiving SNAP, SSI, or ADC are eligible.
1843 K St. / 2301 O St. / 2615 O St., Suite 4 (402) 875-9328 | communityactionatwork.org
Kelly’s Kids North East
Providing an enriching environment for children to learn and grow in north east Lincoln. Open until 6 p.m. and accepts private pay, Title XX. Lincoln Littles Scholarships are available for those who qualify.
4005 N. 70th St. Lincoln, NE (402) 436-4005 | kellyskidsldc.com
KidsPark
(1 1/2 - 11y) Trusted hourly childcare on days, evenings and weekends! No reservations required. Drop-in Mon. - Thu. 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m., and Sat. 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.!
5633 S. 16th St. Ste. 100, Lincoln, NE (402) 413-8849 | KidsPark.com/Lincoln
Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Southern Hills
(6w - 12y) State-of-the-art learning academy with exclusive curriculum developed for each classroom, guardian-accessible cameras, age-appropriate playgrounds, an onsite chef, and more! With our “Hug First, Then Teach” principle we take a whole-child approach, strengthening each child’s emotional, intellectual, social, and physical wellbeing. Currently enrolling all ages – including Summer Camp!
5588 Canterbury Ln., Lincoln, NE (402) 817-4245 | kidsrkids.com/southern-hills
Lincoln Parks and Recreation Preschool Programs
Little Sprouts Preschool at Calvert Recreation Center and Nature Preschool at Pioneers Park Nature Center are open to children 3 to 5 years of age. Programs are nature based, with teachers planning curriculum around children’s curiosity and wonder of the world around them. (402) 441-8669 | lincoln.ne.gov (search: Preschool)
Prairie Hill Learning Center
(18m - 14y) Prairie Hill is a Montessori school that serves children ages 18 months through 8th grade. We are a nature-based school immersed in Montessori philosophy of education.
17705 S. 12th St., Roca, NE 68430 | (402) 438-6668 admin@prairiehill.com | prairiehill.com
Birthday Party & Fun
Butterfly Kisses Face Painting
(All ages) Experienced, award-winning face painter. Creating smiles at all kinds of events! (402) 730-7197 | butterflykissesfacepainting.com
Lost In Fun!
Your outdoor playland... indoors! Fun for all ages! Private party rooms, playsets, foam pit, inflatable jumpers, fun maze, laser maze, video games, jumping pillow, Ballocity, and snack area with yummy food and drinks! We do company parties, too! Book your next Fun-tastic party online at lostinfun.com!
8431 Cody Dr., Lincoln, NE (15th & Yankee Hill) (402) 261-0440 | LostInFun.com
Pioneers Park Nature Center
Add nature to your child’s birthday! Parties include a guided hike or themed activity, special gift for birthday child, party bags for each child, and time for your own activity and refreshments. Recommended for ages 5-12.
3201 S. Coddington Ave., Lincoln, NE | (402) 441-7895 lincoln.ne.gov (search: Pioneers Park Nature Center)
Lincoln Children’s Museum
The Lincoln Children’s Museum offers unlimited adventures throughout its 23,000 square feet and three floors of exhibits. Affordable membership rates pay for themselves in as little as two visits for a family of four. Join today for just $99 with code ELF2024, valid through 12/31.
1420 P Street, Lincoln, NE (402) 477-4000 | Ages: 12 and under
Butterfly Bakery
All the cake, cupcakes, cookies, and dessert you need for your birthday celebrations. Choose from our online menu of designs, or let us design a custom cake just for you! Cakes ready as soon as next day, customs require at least a week’s notice.
4209 S 33rd Street, Lincoln, NE (402) 499-0620 | butterflybakeryne.com
Lessons & Activities
Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventures
Offering 5 weeks of fun, hands-on, STEAM-infused summer learning camps for K-8th grade students. Half-day and full-day camps available on a wide variety of topics from arts and literature to robotics and cooking. More information on our camp schedule, camp locations and our Camp Assistant program is available at BrightLights.org. Registration for our Summer 2025 camps will open in early spring –please watch our social media for announcements!
5561 S. 48th St., Suite 220, Lincoln, NE (402) 420-1115 | brightlights.org
Francie & Finch Bookshop
Selling new books of all kinds and original, local art. Hosting author events and book signings. #youmeetthecoolestpeopleinbookstores
130 S. 13th St, Lincoln, NE
In the Old Telephone Building (402) 781-0459 | francieandfinch.com
Lincoln Music
Teachers Association
LMTA welcomes all music teachers to meet for workshops and camaraderie, to plan activities for our students, and to serve the community. Our LMTA Music Outreach Program offers low-cost lessons, instruments and repairs, music scores and performance opportunities to children in need.
For more information or a Teacher Directory, visit www.LMTA.info. | Contact us at MOP@LMTA.info
Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra
Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra presents inspiring experiences that welcome all members of our community to discover and cultivate a profound, personal connection with live orchestral music. The orchestra comprises of 70 professional musicians under the baton of Maestro Edward Polochick, and the season includes many concerts and community engagement activities
233 South 13th Street, Suite 1702, Lincoln, NE (402) 476-2211 | lincolnsymphony.com
Marble Music
Discover the music in you with private music lessons at Marble Music Studios. Music lessons don’t have to be dull to achieve great results. At Marble Music Studios, our team of teachers bring fun to every lesson with engaging, age-appropriate curriculum and repertoire. We specialize in strings, piano, guitar, ukulele and voice lessons. Now offering toddler music classes!
6201 S. 58th St., Lincoln, NE (402) 413-6355 | marblemusicne.com
Pioneer Gymnastics Academy
(18m - 18y) Pioneer Gymnastics Academy offers gymnastics instruction, competition teams, birthday parties and special events.
3800 Old Cheney Rd. Suite A1, Lincoln, NE (402) 483-1304 | info@pioneergym.com pioneergym.com
Swanson Martial Arts
Lincoln’s best Martial Arts school for life skills. Find your inner strength. Taekwondo, Defensive Tactics, and Kali. Little Dragons ages 4 to 6, Beginners ages 7 and up, Teen and Adult classes.
4747 Old Cheney Rd, Suite B, Lincoln, NE (402) 405-5964 | contact@swansonsmartialarts.com
Music Works Academy
We offer private music lessons and group classes in music, art, yoga, preschool, special needs, reading tutoring and classes for scout badges. All of our classes and lessons qualify for Our Military Kids! grants. Ages 7 - 12
2920 E Court Street, Beatrice, NE (402) 806-4138 | musicworksne.com
Health & Wellness
Lincoln Orthodontics
Dr. Emily Willett and the team at Lincoln Orthodontics can’t wait to give you a beautiful, new smile! With flexible scheduling and affordable treatment plans, achieving a smile you’re proud of has never been easier!
6825 S 27th Street, Ste 202, Lincoln, NE (402) 489-8841 | lincoln-orthodontics.com
Pediatric Dentistry, P.C.
(All ages) Pediatric Dentistry, P.C. provides oral health services for toddlers, children, adolescents, and persons with special healthcare needs in a fun, comfortable, and age-appropriate setting.
3901 Pine Lake Rd., Suite 250, Lincoln, NE (402) 423-3322 | pediatricdentistrypc.net
From the first kick to the first “hello.”
Call it a labor of love. Our women’s health experts believe every first should be precious for new parents – from hearing the tiniest heartbeat to ahhhing over your first ultrasound. You can trust in their medical expertise and the boundless compassion we call humankindness.
With 11 women’s health providers and three Lincoln locations, there’s an expert in precious firsts near you. Find out more at CHIhealth.com/maternity.
Women’s Health
402-484-4081
7001 A St, Ste 200
Women’s Health Midwifery
402-488-6370
Two convenient locations
• 8020 O Street
• 4055 Yankee Hill Road
Experts in precious firsts. Moms-to-be appreciate the specialized care and extra amenities offered at our full-service Maternity Center. We know that delivering a baby is your moment. Make it uniquely yours with our team of Ob-Gyn and Midwife providers.
CHI Health St. Elizabeth 555 S 70th Street