MetroFamily Magazine May 2012

May 2012

When your child's friends are a bad influence Our experts give advice When your

child's friends are a bad influence

Our experts give advice

Get your kicks on Get your kicks on Route 66 with our Route 66 with our Exploring Oklahoma Exploring OK withChildren Children with travel guide!

Travel Guide w i t h

Del City

goes green a school Delwith City Elementary garden goes green with a

+ +

school garden project

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Find ### fun events Fun forevents May for May (including Mother's Day) in our calendar metrofamilymagazine.com

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | May 2012

• Click

what’s new at metrofamilymagazine.com CALENDAR DIRECTORIES BLOGS CONTESTS SAVE MONEY

MetroFamily's website provides all the tools you need to enhance your summer fun. Here, Sarah Kate T., age 5, of Edmond enjoys summer at her neighborhood pool.

May is a month of celebrations (Mother’s Day, graduations, and more) but also the perfect time to begin planning for summer. Get ready for your family’s best summer ever by using the resources found in this issue and on our website. From summer travel ideas to summer camps and more, find it all at www.metrofamilymagazine.com, your one-stop summer fun site!

You could WIN big!

Sign up to be eligible for great prizes at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/contests.

• Know a mom who inspires? Nominate her for MFM’s “Real Moms of the Metro” column. One lucky nominee and her nominator will receive a $25 gift certificate to The Vintage Pearl and be featured in an upcoming issue. Deadline is May 17.

• Our May Giveaway features many fantastic family- and kid-friendly products. Value is over $300. Deadline is May 24.

• Enjoy family movies all summer long by entering to win one of two family 4-packs to the Harkins Theater Summer Movie Fun program. Deadline is May 26.

• Enter to win a 4-pack of tickets to the new water park at Andy Alligator’s Fun Park in Norman, plus the use of a cabana.

Deadline is May 29.

• Register to win a fantastic camping prize pack including sleeping bags, flashlights and more, valued at almost $300.

Deadline is May 31.

• Enter your favorite Oklahoma vacation photo in our Exploring Oklahoma Photo Contest. Details on page E-26.

• Win a fun summer vacation! Look for information in mid-May about how you can win a fabulous family getaway for four to the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, TX, valued at over $600!

You could SAVE big!

Top picks & finds on our website this month • Mother’s Day Fun Guide (www.metrofamilymagazine.com/mothers-day) • For kid-tested recipes that your entire family will love, check out our newest blog, Stephanie’s Kitchen. (www.metrofamilymagazine.com/stephanies-kitchen) • School ending dates list. (www.metrofamilymagazine.com/end-dates) • Our popular Top Ten lists, from fresh dining options to best parks & more.

• Find a Farmer’s Market near you. (www.metrofamilymagazine.com/farmers-markets) • Family-friendly restaurants offering discounts and dozens of other ways to save money. (www.metrofamilymagazine.com/restaurant-family-nights)

These are just a few of the hundreds of reasons to visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com every day!

Join the MetroFamily community of active local parents

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | May 2012

Find coupons to the businesses listed below at www. metrofamilymagazine. com/okc-family-discounts.

• Kelly Haines, family hair stylist • Green Goodies • Guitar for Kids School of Rock • The Vintage Pearl • Museum of Osteology • Bouncin’ Craze • Play Nation playground sets • Jump!Zone • Studio J School of Dance • Glamour Shots • Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum • Mathnasium • Sooner Bowling • N&S Cleaning Services PLUS, save with the NEW Kids Pass for 2012-2013 that includes over 30 coupons to local and statewide attractions! Find it on page E24-E25 in this issue or at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-pass.

Contents May 2012

6

Dear MetroFamily

8

Family Shorts

Editor’s Note.

Community news, resources & other family-friendly information.

10 Ask the Expert

When your child's friends become a bad influence—and what to do about it.

12 Question of the Month

How would you spend an extra hour in your day? Our readers chime in.

13 Problem Solving Products 14 Real Moms of the Metro

Meet foster care advocate Jennifer Abney.

15 Character Corner

21

Finding your patience.

16 Oklahoma Reads

Great reads for all ages.

E1 Exploring Oklahoma with Children

E1

Because making memories as a family is the best gift ever, we provide an awesome list of family fun for Mother's Day (and every day on our calendar starting on page 21)—plus a wonderful Oklahoma travel guide to start planning those summer trips and outings (starting on page E1).

Happy Mother's Day, Mom!

Special pull-out travel guide to Route 66 and more.

17 Your Healthy Family

What you should know: Changes to your annual well woman exam.

18 Focus on Education

Going “deliciously” green with a community garden at Del City Elementary.

21 Calendar

Fun events, activities and classes.

ON OUR COVER AND ABOVE: Three-year-old TJ, son of Rob and Melanie Glade.

PHOTO BY: Randy Coleman, www.randycolemanphotography.com.

30 Photo Gallery

Our readers share their favorite vacation photos.

May 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Dear MetroFamily, Mother’s Day is celebrated this month, and it’s got me thinking. So, I ask you—what is the best part about being a parent for you?

For me, it’s the non-stop learning. Watching my kids learn, seeing them take the things that I’ve taught them and mix them with the things that they see and coming up with their own unique lessons.

I was the kid who was afraid to try new things for fear of looking foolish. I didn’t want to try something and fail; the idea that in failure there is opportunity for growth never really kicked in when I was young.

As a parent, I’ve tried to drill this lesson into my kids; we talk about the idea that it’s how you react to new or tricky situations when you grow as a person.

Recently, my daughter started gymnastics.

My daughter is a lot of great things, but she’s not the most coordinated person, she kind of gambols along. As I observed her first few classes, I saw her trying to follow the coaches and the other kids, doing her own imitation of what she saw them doing, sometimes coming close, and never losing her smile. At the end of her fourth session, I asked her coach how she was doing. “Great!” She said. She was impressed with Lauren’s improvement on her cartwheels and somersaults.

I told her coach that I saw Lauren trying again and again and how great it was that she wasn’t giving up. I didn’t know that my daughter was standing behind me until she piped up. “That’s because it’s my favorite thing, mama—I keep trying until I get it!”

And in that moment, my 7 year old taught me a lesson that I’ve been struggling with for over 40 years. Keep trying; eventually, you’ll get it.

Cheers,

Info And Questions: 405-601-2081 To submit events to our calendar calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com Publisher Sarah L. Taylor sarah@metrofamilymagazine.com Editor Mari M. Farthing editor@metrofamilymagazine.com Art Director Kathryne Taylor kathryne@metrofamilymagazine.com Advertising Sales Athena Delce Dana Price ads@metrofamilymagazine.com Office and Distribution Manager Kathy Alberty kathy@metrofamilymagazine.com Assistant Editor & Online Content Manager Brooke Barnett brooke@metrofamilymagazine.com Calendar Editor Sara Riester calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com Special Projects Assistant Terri Fields Interns Roxanne Nguyen, Alexandra Bryan Contributing Writers Brooke Barnett, Shannon Fields, Sarah Holmes Circulation 35,000 – OKC, Edmond, Nichols Hills, Norman, Moore, Midwest City, Yukon Also available as a digital edition at MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Inprint Publishing, Inc. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

MetroFamily Magazine is published monthly

by Inprint Publishing, Inc. 725 NW 11th, Suite 204 • Oklahoma City, OK 73103 Fax: 405-445-7509 E-mail: info@metrofamilymagazine.com

Photos, from top: That little girl at the top (me, age 7) could have learned a lot from that little girl on the bottom (Lauren, age 7).

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P.S. Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/mari to read my blog, “Keeping it Real,” about my personal adventures in the ups and downs of parenting.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | May 2012

©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2012, All Rights Reserved.

Volume 15, Number 5

May 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Contributing writers: Brooke Barnett, Mari Farthing

Fashion Fundraiser

Improving Teacher Preparation

World Neighbors is hosting a Wine, Women & Shoes fundraising event on Thursday, May 17, from 6:00–9:00pm at the Oklahoma City Farmer’s Market (311 S Klein). Wine, Women & Shoes benefits World Neighbors’ Work of Women (WOW!) program with a one-of-a-kind luncheon, wine tasting and exclusive shopping from designer labels.

Oklahoma has joined ranks with 11 other states in the Alliance for Clinical Teacher Preparation, a group committed to the transformation of educator-preparation policies and practices.

WOW!, recognized by The Journal Record in 2011 as one of 50 “Programs Making a Difference,” mobilizes women in support of a better life for their counterparts in isolated villages throughout the world. “We are so pleased to be partnering with Wine, Women & Shoes,” said Erin Engelke, vice president of marketing and communications at World Neighbors. “WOW! elevates the status of women across the globe and helps them realize their potential to positively influence their communities. The Wine, Women & Shoes event will bring together women in Oklahoma who support that cause with a fabulous celebration of wine, shoes and shopping!”

The goals of the Alliance are: 1.

To develop partnerships among schools and higher education.

2. To develop more effective state policies supporting innovation, research and strong clinical preparation for teachers.

3.

To increase use of performance assessments to ensure teacher effectiveness.

“The research is clear,” says Linda Reid, executive director of the Oklahoma Commission for Teacher Preparation (OCTP). “One does not become an effective teacher by sitting in a lecture hall. Our future teachers need to spend extended meaningful time in ‘real’ classrooms.”

Cameron University, Northeastern State University, University of Central Oklahoma, University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma and Oklahoma City University are taking part in this pilot program. Learn more about the program or the OCTP at www.octp.org.

Allergy Alerts Have your allergies been worse than normal this year? It’s not your imagination.

According to the Oklahoma Allergy & Asthma Clinic (OAAC), by the end of March, Central Oklahoma had already been under four severe allergy alerts.

Shoppers will have the opportunity to find select merchandise from Ruth Meyers, Artemis Boots, Pink Sugar, Heirloom Shoes, Carlos Falchi and CK & Company. The event also will feature a fashion show and raffle, including spa treatments, portrait sessions, gift cards and more.

Allergy sufferers know that pollen is serious business, especially if combined with other complications such as asthma. So how can you fight against pollen? The OAAC offers the following tips for coping on allergy alert days: • Limit outdoor activities.

• Keep your windows at home and in the car closed to keep pollen out.

• Shower in the evening to wash away pollen and allergens.

• Remove shoes before entering your home to prevent tracking in pollen.

Visit the OAAC website at www.oklahomaallergy.com to see a daily allergy report and keep track of pollen levels.

To learn more or to reserve your seat, email kcraig@wn.org or call 405-418-0443.

To learn more about WOW!, visit www. workofwomen.org or www.wn.org.

Severe Weather Preparedness With the prevalence of spring storms this year, it’s more important than ever to be prepared. How can you keep your family safe?

Make a preparedness kit. Include bottled water, clothing and a blanket for each family member, food, self-powered weather radio, flashlight, batteries and first aid kit. Consider keeping some basic tools (screwdriver, pliers, hammer), hand sanitizer and chlorine bleach in your shelter at all times. These items are helpful in case of emergency.

• Make a plan. Teach younger children basic contact information in case they are separated from you. Designate a post-emergency meeting spot where family will gather.

• Practice your plan. Ensure that all families know where to go in case of emergency and what to bring (or leave behind). Include putting on shoes and finding helmets in your drill when you practice.

• Talk about it. What are your kids doing at school to prepare for severe weather? How can you integrate this into your home preparedness?

Should you find yourself a victim of a weather emergency, know where you can go for shelter and relief; the Red Cross provides a list of official shelter/relief locations at www. redcross.org/nss.

Tips provided courtesy of Etón Corporation.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | May 2012

Best Places to Buy Baby Gifts in the Metro: Top 10 Reader Picks

New! Andy Alligator’s Water Park On May 12, the all-new Water Park at Andy Alligator’s Fun Park will open, providing over four acres of aquatic fun with a 700-foot lazy river, covered play zone for toddlers, a variety of slides and tubes and a giant tipping bucket that will cause an 800-gallon splash. Private cabana areas will be available to rent in advance online or at the park, as available.

“We built Andy Alligator’s Water Park with families in mind,” says spokesperson Kyle Allison. “The entire experience is designed for families with children looking for a clean, safe and affordable family fun destination” The Water Park is set to open May 12 and planned hours are from 10:30am-6:00pm daily. Tickets will be available for one-time visits or season passes, which can be purchased in advance for $79.99. Daily admission tickets are $15.95 for seniors, military and anyone 42" and under; $18.95 for anyone over 42"; children under 2 and under are free.

Want to win a family 4-pack of tickets with a cabana? Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/water-park-contest for all the details.

Mom’s Nite Out: The Ultimate Celebration of Motherhood On Thursday, May 10, Penn Square Mall (1901 NW Expressway) will host a Mom’s Nite Out event, a nationallyorganized celebration for motherhood held to unite moms across the country.

This free event provides Oklahoma City metro-area moms with the opportunity to enjoy social networking, fun interactive activities, live demonstrations, food, shopping incentives and more in the mall’s Center Court from 5:00– 8:00pm.

“We believe that moms deserve a ‘Nite Off,’ so we are hosting a free event where they can enjoy their favorite destination in a new way,” explains Mis Gaston, Director of Marketing and Business Development at Penn Square Mall. “Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in an evening filled with pampering refreshments, entertainment, fashion and beauty services, all focused on rewarding Moms.”

Local blogger, the Consumer Queen Melissa Garcia (www. consumerqueen.com), will serve as the event emcee for the second year and will share her tips on couponing and saving money. Participants can enjoy sampling, demonstrations and giveaways, plus the first 250 women to arrive at the event will receive a free Mom’s Nite Out tote.

For more information, visit www.simon.com or www. facebook.com/PennSquareMall.

Need to shower an expectant mom with that perfect gift for a baby-tobe, but not sure where to shop? We polled our readers for their favorite local stores to shop for adorable baby shower gifts in the OKC metro.

Here, in random order, are their recommendations: 1.

Green Bambino (5120 North Shartel Avenue)

2. The Boutique in Old Town Moore (118 NW 1st Street, Moore) 3.

On a Whim (5860 N Classen)

4.

Copelin’s Kidoodles ToyZone (425 W Main, Norman)

5.

Little Dudes & Divas (1448 N Bryant, Edmond)

6.

Cinnamon Bears (102 S Broadway, Edmond)

7.

The Tulip Tree (360 24th Avenue NW, Norman)

8.

Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen)

9.

StorkLand (6917 N May Avenue)

10. Marissa's Room (3224 South Broadway #124, Edmond) Thanks to Andrea M., Monica M., Tracy Z., Stacy M., Hallie K., Sarah M., Whitney M., Emily R. and Michelle W. for contributing to this month’s list. Visit www.facebook.com/metrofamily to share your thoughts on next month’s list.

Have a store you’d like to suggest? Comment on our website at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/baby-gifts.

Family Fun at the Mud Run The second annual Red Mud Run features a three-mile obstacle course through water, mud, dirt, hills and woods to benefit local animal charities. A shorter kids course features half the distance but all the muddy fun.

The run will be held in several heats throughout the day, and awards will be given to the top three finishers in age and team divisions. The first heat at 1:00pm is a shortened course for kids, with finishing awards presented to each finisher. The final heat of the day is an untimed event reserved for mudders to run with their leashed dogs.

After the run, stick around for family-friendly fun including music, food vendors and kids’ activities including face painting and dancing with Top Hat Talent instructors. The race, hosted by DG Productions and Fit w/ Vic personal training, will be held on the property of K&M Wrecking & Demolition (4920 SW 134th St, OKC) on Sunday, May 20. There is a $5 fee for parking, which is limited (carpooling is highly recommended).

Registration is $40 before May 14, $45 after, $50 on race day. Teams of five will get a discount if registering in advance. A portion of the proceeds will go to benefit the OKC Animal Shelter, Great Plains Mastiff Rescue (www.greatplainsmastiffrescue.org), Horse Feathers Equine Rescue (www.horsefeathersequinerescue.org) and Friends with Four Paws (www. friendswithfourpaws.org). All non-profits in the city are invited to attend free of charge, promote their cause and bring a few animals. Pet food and gentlyused bedding will be collected at the event to donate to all participating non profit groups.

Visit www.fitwvic.com or www.dgroadracing.com for details and registration.

May 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Ask the Experts Questionable Friendships This month’s question: My daughter has a friend that I believe is a horrible influence on her. How can I encourage her to seek out other friendships that would be more beneficial or supportive?

Devonne Carter, LCSW:

I would encourage you to keep your thoughts about your child’s friend to yourself. Some children will seek out friends you don’t want them to spend time with. When your child asks to spend time with her friends that you don’t approve of, just say ‘No.’ You don’t need to give her a reason, and I would encourage you not to justify anything. Try to schedule family time with people you feel would be a better influence on your daughter, people you want her to be friends with. If your family spends time with other families, your children will naturally gravitate toward those children even when you’re not around.

Devonne Carter, LCSW, is a Clinical Social Worker in private practice in Edmond.

Contact her at 405-326-3923 or www. carterscounseling.com.

Kristen Kuepker, M Ed.

When raising children, we hope that we have instilled a sense of character that will surface even when faced with difficult situations. If you think your daughter’s friend is not the best influence, try inviting her into your home, allowing the girls to hang out with your supervision. The other child may benefit from someone that is a good influence on her.

By supporting the friendship instead of condemning it, your daughter may be more apt to open up to you regarding struggles she is facing. Believe in your child and you give her the confidence to make the right decisions.

Kristen Kuepker, M Ed. is a Principal at Bryant Elementary, Moore Public Schools.

Donnie Van Curen M.A., LMFT:

If your daughter is 14 or older, recognize her ability to choose her friends. This isn’t to say that there are not repercussions for her choices, and there should be, but at some point she has to feel the freedom and responsibility to make her own decisions— otherwise she will not be prepared to live her own life down the road.

If you haven’t already, consider spending time with this friend. This may be difficult depending on the age of the girls, but find out what your daughter sees in this person. There may be something you have missed, either in the friend, or in your daughter and her role in the friendship. If anything, this will better prepare you for the next step.

Talk with your daughter. Explain the patterns or influences you see, and encourage her to be the leader in the relationship. This might be an optimum time to reflect on your own past and the relationships that affected you in a positive or negative way at her age. Also, take the time to encourage your daughter to have a wide variety of friendships instead of focusing on just one.

Donnie Van Curen M.A., LMFT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with Counseling 1820, LLC. Contact him at 405-823-4302 or www.counseling1820.com.

Tamara Walker, RN

Friendships are an important part of life but not all friendships are healthy or good for us.

Start a conversation with your daughter about friendships in general by asking her what she likes about her friends. What qualities or character traits does she look for when deciding to be someone’s friend? What does

she like about the friend in question? Why does she want to be friends with this person?

Understanding her reasons for the friendship may help you address your concerns about her friend’s behavior without putting her on the defensive. Teach her that a true friend will have her best interests at heart and would not want to lead her into trouble.

Sometimes its necessary for a parent to put an end to a child’s friendship with someone who is a bad influence. Ideally, try to convince your daughter to let go of the friendship on her own, after realizing it is not a healthy relationship. Then, she will have learned a valuable life lesson about choosing friends wisely in the future.

Tamara Walker RN is a talk show host and speaker in Edmond. Contact her at www.

MomRN.com.

Kevin Tutty, LCSW:

Social influences become more important than parental influence during the teenage years for many adolescents. The answer to this question would depend on the age of your daughter. If she is a preteen, you will definitely have more influence than if she is 15 or older. In either case, it can be counter-productive if you prohibit her from spending time with this friend; this could damage your relationship and reduce your level of influence with your daughter. How well do you know this friend’s parents? Try collaborating with your them about any concerns that you may share about your children’s behavior.

Kevin Tutty, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice. Contact him at 405-431-6225.

Our readers respond: • A lot would depend on the age of your daughter. If you think she is old enough to understand, just sit her down and be honest with her about your concerns. If she isn’t old enough yet, then maybe limit her contact with that child and help her find activities to lead her to find new friends.

• Why couldn’t you see if your daughter could be a good influence on the friend? It flows both ways. Perhaps you could find some supervised activities for your daughter and her friend to participate in. Also, it’s good for your daughter to expand her friendships. If you get your daughter into some activities, she’s sure to find other girls to relate to a bit differently. That would also take up some of the time spent with the first friend. If you force her to abandon her friend, it may backfire.

• Things aren’t always what they seem; the child you may think is a bad influence might be a supportive friend, and you must consider that it could be your own child, other children in their group of friends or even just the two of them together that might come up with some poor choices. Spend time with your daughter and her friend and be supportive of positive choices. Young girls always benefit from a positive influence, so do your best to model positive behavior to the girls.

Thanks to Kami M., Juli S. and Rachel R. for your feedback.

Have a question for our experts? Email it to editor@metrofamilymagazine.com.

photography for the artistically minded family

randycolemanphotography.com 405•509•9395 //studio 223 south walker randy@randycolemanphotography.com

May 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Question of the Month What Would You Do With an Extra Hour in Your Day? As a parent, it can seem like the birth of a child somehow results in time beginning to fly by at record speed! For moms, it’s almost like there aren’t enough hours in the day to take care of family, work and other commitments.

Our April Question of the Month asked our readers to share what they would do if their Mother’s Day gift was an extra hour in their day. More than half of respondents (49 percent) said they would spend the extra time with their family, enjoying meals, movies and quality time together. The next largest group (30.4 percent) said they would spend the time pampering themselves or trying something new. Just over 8 percent of our readers say they would use the time helping others in the community, while 10.8 percent say they would spend the time in another way that makes sense in their lives.

Our readers shared more about how they would spend this found time: Sakira B. would use the time to help others.

“I wish I had more time so that I could give back. I have been so blessed in so many ways and I am so grateful to God for all that I have.

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Sometimes a friendly face or a listening ear can make all the difference in someone's life.”

Family time would be top priority for Tina A. “In the evenings during the week, we rush home, cook dinner, rush to eat, rush to get a bath... rush, rush, rush. I would use it to sit down with my kids, do an activity together and let everything else wait.”

Getting fit would be a priority for Sherri F. “I would like to exercise more with an extra hour. I can't seem to work it into the day right now.”

Dalia L. would continue a family tradition with her extra time. “I loved watching my Gramma crotchet when I was young. When I finally learned the craft I was always crocheting baby blankets for other people.

After many years of trying to have another baby, my wish came true. She is now 15 months old and I’m 3 months pregnant again.

Now I have babies I can make blankets for but don't have the time for it!”

Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/aprilreader-responses to read more about how our readers would spend their extra time.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | May 2012

If your Mother's Day gift this Q year was an extra hour in your day, how would you use it?

92 total responses On my family, it seems like we never •spend enough time together. 49% On myself, pampering myself or •trying something new. 30.4% •Other. 10.8% In my community, I would love more •time to help others. 8.7% •Does not apply. 1.1% Other methods

We love to cook together and share meals as a family.

We love to travel and visit new places to explore whenever we can!

We share a love of movies/games/books/music and spend time on that.

We love to attend sporting events together! Whether one of us is playing or

Question of the Month for June

What is the greatest life lesson you learned from your father?

Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ fs-giveaway to share your thoughts and enter your name in our monthly prize package drawing, valued at over $250.

The full contents of the prize package are listed on the contest page.

Deadline to enter is Thursday, May 24.

Problem Solvers Helpful Family Products When we hear about new or helpful products, we like to let our readers know! Here are a few of the more interesting items we’ve recently found. Visit the product website for a list of local retailers.

Problem:

The change in weather means a change in your skin condition.

Solution:

Neosporin Eczema Essentials include a body wash, moisturizing cream and anti-itch cream which gently treat the problem while caring for skin. (www.neosporin.com)

Problem:

Ugh; Mom’s had a long day and could use some TLC!

Solution:

Bed Buddy Soothing Foot Warmers provide the benefits of aromatherapy to soothe away the stresses of a busy day. ($12, www.carex.com)

Problem:

You’re on a diet, but don’t French fries sound really good right now?

Solution:

T-fal Actifry lets you cook up French fries—and just about anything else—quickly, deliciously and with just one teaspoon of oil. ($250, www.t-falusa.com)

Problem:

Your kids don’t know much about geography.

Solution:

Play the Chaotic Connections Board Game to make learning about the geography of our country fun for all ages. ($30, www.chaoticconnections.com)

Problem:

In desperation, you’ve repurposed your reusable grocery bags to carry your laptop.

Solution:

The Jill-e Designs Laptop Valise carries your laptop, files and so much more in sturdy style. ($170, www. jill-e.com)

Problem:

You want to send her to camp with a flashlight that’s not too bulky.

Solution:

The BugLit from Nite Ize is a small, powerful LED flashlight with three modes, a carabiner and attached, bendable gear ties to make it versatile and fun. ($13; www.niteize.com)

Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/contests for a chance to win many of the products shown here and on other pages this month!

May 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

13

Real Moms of the Metro Meet Jennifer Abney: Nonprofit Director & Foster-Care Advocate

What are you passionate about?

I am most passionate about children—my greatest joy is making a child smile.

How has motherhood changed you?

My husband and I waited 12 years to become parents. Being a mom has completed me in so many ways. It has pushed me to advocate for children and be more compassionate to those around me.

How do you banish stress?

Just after the girls go to school and before I head off to work, I enjoy the quiet house and a cup of coffee. I also live in a great neighborhood, filled with the most amazing women. We laugh, cry, pray and solve the world’s problems. I think friendship and a good sense of humor are the most critical aspect to a happy life.

What inspires you?

I am inspired by my mother and strive to be like her every day. She has taught me through her actions that you can gracefully move through life doing generous things

Quick Facts About Jennifer 1. What are five words that describe you? Joyful, compassionate, creative, resourceful, efficient.

2. What’s on your playlist? Lady Antebellum, The Band Perry, Kelly Clarkson and Jack Johnson, to name a few.

3. What’s your favorite TV show?

The Good Wife, Modern Family, Up All Night.

4. How do you spend time alone? Surfing on Pinterest, gardening and organizing life’s next event!

5. What’s your guilty pleasure?

Almond Joy Coffee from Cowgirl Coffee on Sorghum Mill Road.

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Real Mom Jennifer Abney, her husband DavidKate, age 6, and Desi, age 8.

Along with your job as a mom, what do you do?

With the support of my family and friends, I have taken my passion for children and started Angels Foster Family Network in Edmond. We recruit, train and support foster families with whom we place foster children from Oklahoma County.

Advice for other moms?

As a new mom, find a playgroup for your little ones as early as 4 months. Moms can be a huge support for each other. My best advice is to learn how to laugh at yourself and the situations that come your way each day. Lastly, be sure to add in time for you and your husband each day to talk and stay on the same page. Cohesive parenting makes everything better.

What do you like most about your job?

I love working with families and helping them to understand what fostering a baby is all about. It’s a hard job to be a foster parent, but one of the most rewarding. I love the feeling I get after every placement.

Seeing a young child’s face when they meet their new family, and knowing that we, at Angels, helped with their journey puts everything in my life into perspective.

Where are you from originally? What brought you to Oklahoma?

I was born in Dallas and lived in Houston for several years. My husband’s job took us to Ann Arbor, Michigan, and San Diego before we landed in Edmond five years ago—where we plan to stay!

What’s the biggest challenge in your life?

Exercising. I have the best intentions, but never seem to fit it in.

What is on your wish list?

I wish for my daughters to have a blessed and fulfilled life. I hope they learn all the lessons that I did, and that I will have the gift of being in their lives as long as possible.

What is your parenting style?

I’m very patient. I try to really hear what my kids are telling me, since sometimes what a child says isn’t what they really mean. When they do something that angers me, I try my best to stop, think and then speak.

for everyone around you. I hope my daughters learn that gift from me.

What are you most proud of?

At home, I am most proud to see my children get through certain struggles, and conquer their fears of new tasks. At work, I am most proud of our volunteer program, Project Lullaby, an after-school mentoring program for elementary-age children.

What motivates you?

Making others happy.

How do you find balance in your life?

I try to keep everything I do (home, church, shopping, school, dentist, doctor and volunteering) in my imaginary bubble. I can accomplish more things every day if I keep everything in my five-mile radius.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | May 2012

Favorite quote or advice about motherhood?

“The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world and its destiny.” ~ W. R. Wallace Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

Editor’s note: visit www.angelsfosterokc.org to learn more about the Angels Foster Family Network.

Photo by Sarah Taylor

J

ennifer Abney of Edmond is a transplanted Texan who feels like she has always lived in Oklahoma. She dedicates her time to helping foster children in Oklahoma County through her nonprofit organization, the Angels Foster Family Network. As Executive Director, Jennifer manages this fast-growing program, which she anticipates will double in size this next year. Learn how this 45-year-old mother of two (daughters Desi, 8, and Kate, 6) has turned her passion for helping children into a successful organization and how she strives to live within her own five-mile bubble.

Character Corner Learning About Patience Do long lines, slow traffic or slow people irritate you? Waiting calmly without complaining is often not easy—for kids or adults—and neither is learning about delayed gratification or lovingly accepting others and their imperfections. Life is full of difficult situations and people that we should learn to patiently accept. Patience is a simple concept to understand, but not always easy to teach or to apply to our lives. Be strong, the next time your child is demanding something right away— don’t feed the monster. The temporary unpleasantness of learning this life skill will eventually pay off for you and your child, resulting in a positive adult with some self-control. It is true that good things do come to those who wait—especially good character.

You can learn many things from children. How much patience you have, for instance. ~ Franklin P. Jones Help Your Family Become More Patient: Family tradition. Plan a “Mama and Me” activity for Mother’s Day. Bake something together, go fishing, plant a garden—all of these activities teach patience because they require waiting.

Object lesson. Caterpillars are rewarded for their patience and hard work by becoming a beautiful butterfly. Look for butterflies at the zoo, in the wild, or purchase a butterfly garden and observe the process of their metamorphosis together. Decorate with butterfly stickers or stamps. My favorite simple butterfly craft is to use fingerpaints or glitter-glue (anything slow drying) to decorate one half of a simple drawing of a butterfly. Then fold the picture in half and smoosh one side onto the other making them identical. You can’t go wrong with anything that involves smooshing.

Games. Any long games (such as Monopoly) requiring working with others or taking turns teach patience. The “Quiet Game” is the best car game ever, because your kids compete to see who can be completely noiseless the longest. “Sardines” is a fun rendition of hide-and-go-seek that is more fun the more people you have. The person who is “it” hides patiently and everyone else tries to find them.

As each person finds “it” they quietly hide with them, until the last person finds where everyone is packed in.

“I will” statements. Encourage patience in your home by committing to the following statements. Say these “I will” statements aloud with your children, and encourage them to apply them to situations in their everyday life.

I will: wait calmly without complaint • lovingly accept others • try until I succeed • control my temper • keep things in perspective.

Sarah Holmes lives in Norman and is the founder of Wildflowers Character Resources. Find more at www.thecharactermom.blogspot.com.

May 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Oklahoma Reads Great Reads for All Early Readers

My Birdie & My Bunny puzzle books (Abrams Appleseed, board books, $7/each) These titles are a board book and puzzle in one.

Smaller children will enjoy the brightly-colored pages.

When kids get a bit older, they can piece together the easy four-piece puzzle.

Me Want Pet!

By Tammi Sauer, pictures by Bob Shea Simon And Schuster, hardcover, $16) A new title by Oklahoma author Tammi Sauer is a fun adventure with Cave Boy, his family and his quest to find an appropriate pet. Fun to read aloud!

“I Love Mommy Because...”

By Barb Lawson-Miller (Barbamel Books, board books, $16) These books may be personalized with a picture or drawing on each page. Bright colors and whimsical illustrations highlight the opportunities for fun and connection.

Grades 2+

How to Raise Monarch Butterflies (Firefly, softcover, $9) A book for children to learn about monarch butterflies, their lifecycle and the benefits of monarch butterflies to the environment. Includes step-by-step instructions for raising your own crop of butterflies in your home. Great for nature lovers young and old alike.

Sports Illustrated Kids Pro Files: Baseball (Time Home Entertainment, hardcover, $18) Profiles on 15 of Major League Baseball’s leading players includes personal information, professional statistics and tips for playing like the pros.

Reviews by Mari Farthing .

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Celebrating Mom Mom: A Celebration of Mothers from Storycorp, Edited by Dave Isay (Penguin, softcover, $14) features stories in the sections of Wisdom, Devotion and Enduring Love taken from transcripts of the Storycorp project, where pairs of people are invited to interview one another. The pairs are from different ages and demographics, but common threads weave them together.

Teens

Fresh From the Farmstand cookbook (Gooseberry Patch, hardcover spiral, $17) Make the most of whatever you find at the Farmers’ Market—or your own backyard vegetable garden—with a cookbook that features a wide variety of recipes to make use of the fresh fruits and vegetables that you find.

Little Women and Me

By Lauren Baratz-Logsted (Bloomsbury, hardcover, $17) Do you ever wish you could jump into a book and change something that you just didn’t like about it? Emily March gets that chance when she gets a school assignment that becomes more real than she could have imagined.

How To Rock Your Baby

By Erin Bried (Hyperion, softcover, $15) Timeless advice from a modern mom. Known for writing books filled with old-school tips for women and men, Bried now presents this backto-basics guide for new mothers. Tips run the gamut from managing pregnancy to connecting with other new moms, and everything in between.

Drawing On the Right Side of the Brain

By Betty Edwards (Penguin, softcover, $20) A newly-updated version of the classic which helps anyone tap into their creativity and learn to use visual-thinking skills that can be applied to all areas of your life.

Adults

At the Farmers’ Market with Kids

By Leslie Jonath & Ethen Brennan Photographs by Sheri Giblin (Chronicle, softcover, $23) The best way to get kids engaged in healthful eating is to involve them in the shopping and preparation of healthy foods. This bright cookbook is filled with recipes and tips for involving kids, organized by season.

Beyond the Sling

By Mayim Bialik (Simon and Schuster, hardcover, $24) Actress and PhD Mayim Bialik offers a first-person account of attachment parenting and how it has worked for her. Written in a very conversational yet intelligent style, this is an engaging read that might challenge your parenting ideas in a good way.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | May 2012

The Mothers of Reinvention

By Jennifer Pate and Barbara Machen (Vanguard Press, softcover, $16) Moms, do you wish you had a road map for taking control of your life? The authors of this book pledge to help you “reclaim your identify, unleash your potential and love your life” with this interactive book that will assist you in facing what is truly holding you back.

The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Food From My Frontier

By Ree Drummond (William Morrow, hardcover, $30) Step-by-step recipes from Oklahoma’s most wellknown homeschooling mom and blogger. Recipes are illustrated with the photographic instructions that have become the hallmark of Drummond’s delicious, down-home food.

Your Healthy Family Changes in Your Well-Woman Exam

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et’s be honest… a “well woman” exam is not especially fun.

Typically, these visits have included lab work to check thyroid and cholesterol levels, a breast exam and a Pap smear. A Pap smear is a screening test used to detect the presence of abnormal cells in the endocervical canal of the female reproductive system. Until recently, annual Pap smears were recommended as part of a well woman exam for most women. However, new guidelines recently released by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force may make the annual Pap smear a thing of the past.

Why Pap Smears?

The Pap smear was invented by prominent Greek physician Georgios Papanikolaou, who was among the first to discover cancerous cells through the use of a vaginal smear in the early 1920s. In a conventional Pap smear, a sample of cells are collected from the cervix with a brush, smeared onto a microscope slide and checked for abnormalities in a lab. Some clinics use liquid-based cytology, where the sample is placed in a bottle of preservative for transport to the lab for examination. The Pap smear remains a widely used and effective tool for detecting cervical cancers and infections of the endocervix.

Updated Guidelines While annual screening has long been the norm, new guidelines released in March of 2012 introduced several changes. The new guidelines recommend Pap screening no earlier than age 21, regardless of sexual history. Furthermore, the new guidelines recommend against routine testing for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in women younger than 30. For the past decade, HPV testing has often gone hand-inhand with regular Pap tests. HPV is a sexually transmitted disease that may be found in up to 80 percent of all women by the age of 50 and is the leading cause of cervical cancer. While many women under 30 get infected with HPV, most will eliminate the virus without any intervention. HPV testing should be used in certain cases where women receive atypical test results from a Pap smear.

In fact, the old rules will still apply for any sexually active woman with multiple partners or a history of abnormal Pap results. Even in those who do not require annual Pap testing, “it’s important to understand that an annual exam is still necessary for all women, including a breast and pelvic exam.” A pelvic exam can detect many tissue abnormalities, which can be a sign of sexually transmitted disease or the presence of cancerous or precancerous cells. “A Pap smear only checks for cervical changes, but it’s possible for a patient to get vaginal cancer or to have symptoms of an STD that have gone unnoticed,” says Gardner. Her biggest concern is that women will hear these guidelines and feel they can skip the appointment altogether.

“Patients have to be seen annually to refill prescriptions such as hormone replacement or contraceptives, so everyone still needs an annual exam,” she says.

So what’s the take-home lesson? There’s a lot more to an annual well woman checkup than a Pap smear. While some women may be able to get by with less frequent Pap smears, an annual exam is still important. As such, the ritualistic dread that goes along with an impending pelvic exam will continue for many women, but consider the benefits. Prevention is the key to optimal health.

Shannon Fields is a freelance writer from Edmond and a Certified Pharmacy Technician at Innovative Pharmacy Solutions.

Women who have an abnormal Pap are often referred for other procedures such as colposcopy, in which a magnifying device is used to examine the cervix for abnormalities. If abnormalities are visible, a tissue sample may then be obtained for biopsy. While the procedure has few risks, repeated biopsies can damage the cervix, as can some of the procedures that are done when the biopsy results reveal highgrade abnormalities. In such cases, laser excision or cryotherapy may be used to remove the tissue, which can further damage the cervix.

Cervical damage from these types of procedures can compromise fertility and increase the risk of miscarriage when a woman becomes pregnant. The new guidelines are aimed at preventing this type of cervical damage.

Your Annual Exam Think you’re off the hook for the annual exam? Not so fast! These new guidelines, while a welcome relief for some, do not apply across the board. In fact, many women will still need to have annual Pap smears. Catherine Gardner is an Edmond Nurse Practitioner specializing in Women’s Health. After 23 years in practice, she is approaching the new guidelines with caution. “These guidelines apply mostly to healthy women in monogamous relationships or those who are not sexually active,” she notes. In addition, women who have undergone a hysterectomy no longer require Pap smears. “I would hate for the average woman to hear these guidelines and think they don’t have to go in for a well woman exam.”

May 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Focus on Education Growing Healthy Kids, One Plant at a Time to study and grow, combining their specific classroom lessons with hands-on gardening experience. A walk through the beds showcases themes such as “Mater’s Taters,” a salsa garden and a pizza garden.

Community Involvement

D

el City Elementary principal Ruth Kizer estimates that up to 90 percent of her nearly 400 students had no previous experience with growing food before the school kicked off an in-school gardening program this year.

After taking her own grandchildren to a pick-your-own peach farm, this veteran educator started thinking about her students, their exposure to fresh, local produce and how the school might be able to positively impact their health. “Research shows that if they grow it, they will eat it,” Kizer explains while strolling through the maze of raised bed gardens adjacent to the school’s main building. “Nutrition has been a huge part of it. It gives them an awareness of good eating habits, as well as learning teamwork and cooperation.”

The 2011-12 school year is the first time that Del City Elementary has taken this community gardening approach and Kizer reports that it has been an overwhelming success. “Kids don’t get to just play in the dirt anymore. They have had so much fun digging and getting involved has been a wonderful experience,” she explains. “I love watching them dig, plant and work together.“

In addition to the time and effort that students and teachers have put into developing the garden, Kizer has enjoyed impressive involvement from others associated with the school—most importantly, parents.

“There has been so much support from our community, I’ve just been amazed,” Kizer marvels. “It’s been crucial in so many ways.”

To kick off the project, the school asked parents to donate the bricks used to create the raised beds. The $1.50 per brick cost served as an affordable way for families to contribute as much or as little as they could.

Kizer reports that bricks were even donated from other schools in the Mid-Del district that were excited to help the school get their garden program going.

Since the beds were constructed, she says parents have volunteered their time, the PTA has offered support and a local home improvement store even donated a muchneeded wheelbarrow for moving soil. Parents have also volunteered to keep the garden going over the summer months, to help keep the momentum going into the next school year.

“It’s been so cool to watch the kids’ reactions,” says Christal Collins, a parent that volunteers in the garden alongside her second and third grade children. “Everyone just gets a big smile on their face when we talk about the garden.”

Combined Learning The school has combined the gardening program with opportunities for classroom learning. Students have learned math skills by calculating the proper planting distance between plants, seed germination periods and more. History classes compare these gardens to the Victory Gardens grown during WWII. Hands-on science lessons come by tracking how environmental factors such as temperature, rainfall and hours of sunlight affect plant growth. “An EPA expert came in and talked to the kids about keeping soil healthy,” Kizer adds. “Plus, we’ve been vermicomposting and learning about the worms has been cool.”

While the lessons are complex, the structure to the school’s community garden is refreshingly simple. Different classes tend to different beds and all grades participate. Each participating class decides what they wish

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Bringing Community Gardens to Your School For schools interested in starting their own garden project, Kizer says that parental participation is crucial to success and encourages frequent communication to get families excited early on. “When we first introduced the idea of the community garden, I called a meeting to tell parents about it,” Kizer recollects. “We ended up having to change to a different room because so many parents showed up!”

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | May 2012

Next, explore grant opportunities that can help provide funding for materials and other resources. Kizer received grant funding through a 21st Century Community Involvement Grant from the State Department of Education and other small grant programs.

Research available grant opportunities and allow time to meet application deadlines.

Lastly, reach out to other organizations in the community who are working towards similar goals. Kizer mentions local 4H youth programs, county offices of the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Office at Oklahoma State University, master gardeners, and the Ag in the Classroom program as potential resources to explore in your local community.

What’s Cooking Next In celebration of their first year of successful gardening, the entire school will enjoy a special meal of “stone soup” in the cafeteria in early May. In future years, the school hopes to grow enough produce to share with a local senior citizens center. The school will also send seeds home with each student, to encourage families to grow food at home.

“Hopefully, they will learn enough to become gardeners themselves,” Kizer says.

Gardening is not the end of the sustainability that Kizer hopes to teach her students.

Raising chickens is part of her long termplan, as well as beehives to help the students harvest their own honey. “My office staff is at the point where when I say ‘I have a great idea!’ they just groan,” Kizer laughs. “But it is all worth it. I had one little girl look up at me in the garden and say ‘I love this school!’ I have always believed that school and learning should be fun. It’s so rewarding to see the kids learning, connecting and most importantly, enjoying this experience.”

Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor at MetroFamily Magazine.

If you have a topic about education that you would like to see covered in this column, please email editor@metrofamilymagazine.com.

A Local Expert Weighs In Heather Parrott of the Neighborhood Gardener (www.neighborhoodgardener. com), a locally-owned, full service professional landscape design company, shares why gardening with your family can be a great learning experience.

Can families garden successfully, even if time, space and money are limited?

Any family can grow a garden with very little effort and without spending a lot of money. With a little bit of creativity, there is absolutely no need to spend more than a few dollars on seeds to start. I like to encourage families to think out of the box when it comes to creating their own gardens—first by looking at the fruits and vegetables they enjoy eating, narrowing the list to those that are easiest to grow. Next, evaluate the space available for planting. Even if there’s just a patio available, many fruits, vegetables and herbs grow well in pots.

Why is it important to expose children to the process of growing food?

Children’s eyes light up as they see plants grow and eventually produce something that they can enjoy. This process encourages positive self-esteem and the daily routine of caring for the garden teaches responsibility.

How are community gardens beneficial?

Where are some local, family-friendly community gardens?

Community gardens stimulate social interaction while beautifying neighborhoods, producing nutritious food and reducing food budgets for families. It teaches people of all ages and backgrounds how to conserve resources and create opportunities for exercise, education, and even therapy. There are several neighborhood associations that either have a community garden or would be open to starting one. The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma has a community garden available for individuals, groups and organizations that are looking to be a part of one. Chesapeake Energy also has made strides in their community gardens.

What are the first steps to take to start a community garden?

First, look for a group of people dedicated to the start, care and maintenance of the gardens. Once you have a group of people committed to the process, finding a piece of land that will be the home of your garden is integral. Churches, schools, neighborhood associations and cooperate locations are all good places to start. Sometimes, the land sponsor may also be able to provide some type of material donation to start the project. Remember, a community garden is about sustainability and using recycled products, which will help keep the cost down no matter how big or small.

May 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | May 2012

May

26-28

Paseo Arts Festival The 36th Annual Paseo Arts Festival is a showcase for the original works from 80+ visual artists from across the country, performance art, interactive installations, child activity centers, festival food and live music on two sound stages. This year’s festival will focus on the green initiative; as the Paseo Arts Festival expects to be the first Green-Certified festival in Oklahoma City.

A free children's area “Artists of the Future” will give budding artists a chance to explore their creativity and have fun. Children can make sock puppets, clay sculpture and spin art, as well as enjoy the Paper Play Theatre.

The festival will be held May 26–28, from 10:00am–8:00pm Saturday–Sunday and 10:00am–6:00pm Monday. Off-site parking and free shuttles will be available from the First Christian Church at NW 36th and Walker Avenue. For more information, visit www.thepaseo.com.

Photo courtesy of the Paseo Arts Association.

Weekly Events

First Wednesday of the month. 10-11:30am. 301-7321, www. growingcharacter.com.

& shoes. Saturdays, 1pm. Email dbrakefield@yahoo.com to verify schedule. 354-2516.

Discovery Room programs at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History are hands-on fun for toddlers through elementary age children. See website for complete list & details. All programs FREE with paid admission.

FREE Tours of the Governor’s Mansion available the 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month. Closed during the summer & the month of December. 10am-3pm. 568-1292, www.ok.gov.

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art. Create art inspired by the Museum’s collection, exhibitions, & special occasions.

FREE with paid admission. Saturdays, 1-4pm.

FREE Children’s Storytime at Quail Springs Barnes & Noble (13800 N May) every Wednesday & Saturday, 11am. 755-1155, www.barnesandnoble.com.

FREE Green Earth Gang for ages 9-13 works on conservation projects in Martin Park. Saturdays 2-5pm. 755-0676, www.okc. gov/parks/martin_park.

FREE Wednesday Night at the Movies at the Downtown Library. Held every Wednesday, 6-8pm. 231-8650.

FREE Open House at techJOYnT (8328 Glade) presents information about this hands-on after-school program based on science, technology, engineering, arts & mathematics. Sundays, 2-4pm. 345-5010, www. techjoynt.org.

FREE Art Moves provides lunchtime arts events in the downtown OKC area, including performances, demonstrations, short films & artist/curator discussions. Monday-Friday, noon1pm. 270-4892, www.artscouncilokc.com/art-moves for details.

FREE Admission at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art on Tuesdays. 10am-5pm. Activities include Art Adventures for children ages 3-5 with adult (10:30am).

Family Fun Night at JumpZone (SW 104th & Western) includes 2 adults, 2 children, 1 large pizza, 2 liter pop for $25. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:30-8pm. 200-1691, www. jumpzoneparty.com.

Toddler Time at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang) with toys & activities. $2 or FREE with membership. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9am-noon. 376-3411, www.cityofmustang.org.

Story Time at Be Wild For Art (1006 24th Ave NW, Norman) invites children to hear a story & paint pottery based on the story’s theme. Tuesday & Wednesday, 10:30am. 307-9971, www.bewildforart.com.

FREE Tuesday Noon Concert Series at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art are 30-minute concerts are performed

by OU music students & faculty through 4/17. Admission to the museum is FREE on Tuesdays.

FREE Playgroup with a Purpose at Wildwood Community Church (1501 24th Ave NE, Norman) provides fun & character building for moms & children age 6 & under. Snacks provided.

Family Fun Day at Celebration Station (509 Westline) features unlimited rides & a pizza buffet for $15.99 per person.

Thursdays, 4-9pm. 942-7888, www.celebrationstation.com.

FREE Thursday Noon Tunes at the Downtown Library, 11:30-1pm.

The UCO Jazz Lab features performances each Friday & Saturday at 8pm. $7 adults, $5 age 12 & under. 359-7989, www. ucojazzlab.com.

FREE Children’s Storytime at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expressway) each Saturday, 10:15am. 842-2900, www. fullcirclebooks.com.

FREE Children’s Story Time at Edmond’s Best of Books, Saturdays, 11am. 340-9202, www.bestofbooksedmond.com.

FREE Skating Lessons at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36) features rollerskating lessons for beginner, intermediate & advanced as well as featured styles. Saturdays, noon-12:45pm.

605-2758, www.skategalaxyokc.com.

All-Star Bowling at AMF Lanes (500 E Main, Yukon) invites differently-abled individuals & friends. $8 per week for 3 games

Cocktails on the Skyline at the OKC Museum of Art offers a full bar, complimentary chips & salsa & live music. See website for details & possible weather closings. Thursdays through October 11, 5-10:30pm.

Train Rides at the Oklahoma Railway Museum leave the Oakwood Depot at 10am, 11am, noon, 1:30pm & 2:30pm on the first & third Saturday of the month. $10 ages 15 & up, $5 ages 3-14, FREE under 3. 424-8222, www.oklahomarailwaymuseum.org.

FREE Crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May, OKC), Ages 3 & up. Saturdays, 11am-3pm. 8588778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

Stay Late on Saturdays at the OKC Zoo. Grounds remain open until 8pm on Saturdays through September.

History Comes Alive River Cruises Saturdays & Shakespeare on the River Cruises Sundays on the Oklahoma River depart from Regatta Park & Exchange

May 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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MAY S M T W T F S

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Quick Reference American Banjo Museum 9 E Sheridan Ave, OKC 604-2793, www.banjomuseum.org City Arts Center Fair Park, 3000 Pershing Blvd, OKC 951-0000, www.cityartscenter.org Fine Arts Institute of Edmond 27 E Edwards, Edmond 340-4481, www.edmondfinearts.com Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art 555 Elm Ave, Norman 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum 13th & Shartel, OKC 235-4458, www.oklahomaheritage.com Museum of Osteology 10301 S. Sunnylane Rd, OKC 814-0006, www.museumofosteology.org Myriad Botanical Gardens 301 W Reno, OKC 297-3995, www.myriadgardens.com National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org Oklahoma Aquarium 300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks 918-296-FISH, www.okaquarium.org OKC Museum of Art 415 Couch Dr, OKC 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com OKC National Memorial 620 N Harvey, OKC 235-3313, www.oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org OKC Zoo 2101 NE 50th St, OKC 424-3344, www.okczoo.com Oklahoma Children’s Theatre 2501 N Blackwelder, OKC 606-7003, www.oklahomachildrenstheatre.org Oklahoma History Center 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr., OKC 522-0765, www.oklahomahistorycenter.org Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman 325-4712, www.snomnh.ou.edu Science Museum Oklahoma 2100 NE 52nd St, OKC 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org

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landings. Advance tickets recommended. $6 & up adults, $3 & up children ages 6-12, FREE children under 6. Saturdays through August, noon & 12:45pm. 7027755, www.okrivercruises.com.

Ongoing Events Through May 4 FREE Miradas: Ancient Roots in Modern and Contemporary Mexican Art from the Bank of America Collection at the City Arts Center features works by some of the best known Mexican artists. MondayThursday, 9am-10pm; Friday-Saturday, 9am-5pm.

951-0000, www.cityartscenter.org.

Through May 5 Just Between Friends Consignment Sale at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds. Many items discounted Friday & Saturday. $3 admission on Monday only.

Monday-Friday, 10am-7pm; Saturday, 10am-4pm. www. okc.jbfsale.com.

Through May 6 Cheaper By the Dozen presented by the Poteet Theatre (222 NW 15) tells the story of a high school girl & her relationship with her father in a large family. $20.

Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. 609-1023, www. poteettheatre.com.

Seussical the Musical presented by the OU School of Drama at the Rupel J. Jones Theatre (563 Elm, Norman) is based on the characters & stories of Dr. Seuss. $30 adults, $15 students. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. 325-4101, http://173.83.181.3.

Through May 9 11th Annual Respect Diversity Exhibit at Science Museum Oklahoma is filled with art & poetry collaborations by students of all ages who have explored other cultures, human rights and/or other diversity issues. FREE with paid museum admission.

Through May 11 “Miss Nelson is Missing” presented by the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre (2501 N Blackwelder) tells the story of the super nice teacher who is replaced by a detention-loving, recess-cancelling substitute named Viola Swamp. $9 adults, $6 children ages 2-12.

Wednesday & Friday, 11am; Saturday & Sunday, 2pm.

951-0011, www.oklahomachildrenstheatre.org.

Through May 13 Warrior Spirits: Oceanic Arts Exhibition at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features objects from the permanent collections of the Sam Noble Museum & the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art created & used by the indigenous peoples of presentday Papua New Guinea & West Papua, Indonesia.

The Sun & His Wife Exhibit at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum depicts the ceremonial &

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domestic life of the Southwest Indians.

Princely Treasures: European Masterpieces 1600-1800 from the Victoria & Albert Museum at the OKC Museum of Art showcases eighty objects from the collections of European decorative art of the 17th & 18th centuries from miniature to the monumental.

NEW FRONTIERS: Julie Heffernan at the OKC Museum of Art presents twenty large-scale contemporary works by the artist.

Through May 31 Pickin’ & Grinnin’: Roy Clark, Hee Haw & Country Humor exhibit at the Oklahoma History Center celebrates Oklahoma’s ties to the beloved television show.

Bound to Please: A History of Corsets at the Carnegie Library (406 E Oklahoma, Guthrie) showcases undergarments as a symbol of growth in women’s history from the Middle Ages through the present. 2821889, www.okterritorialmuseum.org.

Through June 6 Rock, Paper, Scissors at Science Museum Oklahoma is an interactive installation celebrating the multimedia works of Denise Duong & ceramics of Matt Seikel.

Through June 30 The Return of Elegance at the Oklahoma History Center features 29 evening gowns worn by Oklahoma women at inaugural balls & other special occasions, as well as footwear & handbags from 1912-1985.

Through July 31 Enoch Kelly Haney Art Exhibit: Touching the Past at the Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum showcases paintings & sculptures by Oklahoma Senator & Seminole Chief, Enoch Kelly Haney.

Through December 9 Oklahoma & Infamy at the Oklahoma History Center marks the 70th anniversary of the United States’ entrance into WWII through the Oklahomans who experienced the devastation. Includes artifacts, Japanese flight suits & naval uniforms, interviews with veterans & personal letters. FREE admission to veterans & active duty military.

Daily Events MAY 2012 May 1 • Tuesday Meteorology Day at Science Museum Oklahoma invites guests to explore the science behind meteorology. FREE with paid admission. 9am-4pm.

FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square Mall’s Lego Store invites children 6-14 to build a new model on the first Tuesday of every month. Quantities limited. 5pm. 840-9993, www.stores.lego.com.

Metropolitan Library System www.metrolibrary.org

FREE Family Night Out at Quail Springs Mall (2501 W Memorial) features family friendly activities & themes in the Food Court. 5:30-7:30pm. 755-6530, www. quailspringsmall.com.

& Western Heritage Museum is a walk through the temporary exhibition “Will James: The A.P. Hays Collection” led by the Museum’s Curator of Art. FREE with museum admission. 11-11:45am.

FREE Moore Barks, Books & Buddies at the Moore Public Library allows children to read aloud to a canine listener to improve reading skills. Preregister. 7-8pm.

Also held: 5/15.

FREE Lecture: Thoroughly Modern Mickey – American Art & the Animation of Walt Disney Studios at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art discusses how American artists & critics perceived Disney animation as a new, distinctly American art form. 6-7pm.

May 1–6 Fiddler on the Roof at the Civic Center Music Hall is a Tony Award-winning musical based on the stories of Sholom Aleichem. www.celebrityattractions.com.

May 2 • Wednesday Esther Women Luncheon featuring speaker Sherri Coale at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church (222 NW 15) creates meaningful dialogue & strengthens fellowship for Christian women as they navigate family, work & spiritual fulfillment. Held the first Wednesday of each month. Preregister. $150/year, $20/program.

11:30am-1pm. 232-1371, www.estherwomenokc.org.

Key Session at Paint Your Art Out (100 N Broadway Suite 160, Edmond) invites participants to create a masterpiece on canvas. Preregister. $35. 7pm. 5135333, www.paintyourartout.net.

May 3 • Thursday FREE Spring Back to the Oklahoma State Fair Volunteer Information Event at the OKC Fairgrounds Capital City Café includes snacks, games & information about volunteering at the 2012 State Fair. 5-8pm. 9486700, www.okstatefair.com.

FREE Concerts on the Curve at Classen Curve in OKC features family fun with live music, food, art & more. 6pm. www.classencurve.com.

Sugar & Spurs at the Harn Homestead (1721 N Lincoln) benefits Credit Unions for Kids & includes silent auction, sweet samples from local restaurants & music. $60 individual, $100 couple. 7-10pm. www.oecu.org.

HWAC Choral Union: Brahms’ Requiem & Handel’s Coronation Anthems at Armstrong Auditorium (14400 S Bryant, Edmond), 7:30pm. 285-1010, www. armstrongauditorium.com.

May 3–6 Red Dirt RV Rally at the Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center in Shawnee includes western bar-b-q & barn dance, ice cream social & 50s sock hop, date night at the drive in, golf outing, sightseeing tours, exhibitor’s expo, crafts, games & more. www.oktourism.com.

FREE Red River Classic Morgan Horse Show at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds. Thursday-Saturday, 8am10pm; Sunday, 8am-2pm. www.redriverclassic.com.

May 4 • Friday First Friday Gallery Walk at the National Cowboy

May 4–5 Space Day at Science Museum Oklahoma celebrates the wonders of space exploration. FREE with paid admission. Friday, 9am-4pm; Saturday, 9am-5pm.

FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo Arts District features more than 60 artists in 17 galleries.

Friday, 6-10pm; Saturday, noon-5pm. 525-2688, www. thepaseo.com.

A Mammoth Sleepover at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Musuem of Natural History features a movie in the Great Hall & sleepover with the dinosaurs for ages 6-12. One parent for every 3 children is requested.

Preregister. Friday, 7pm-Saturday, 9am.

FREE Operation Kidsafe Child Safety Event at Marc Heitz Chevrolet (I-35 & Lindsay, Norman) provides a quality 8 1/2 X 11" printout of your child's picture & fingerprints. First 100 kids will receive an activity pack complements of Marc Heitz Chevrolet. All children 1 year & older as well as special needs adults are encouraged to attend. Friday, noon-6pm; Saturday, 10am-4pm. 866-962-5487.

Project Mom at the Sheraton Oklahoma City Hotel (1 N Broadway) features parenting experts, speakers, breakout sessions & more. $79 Girls’ Getaway Weekend Package, $49 All-Access Day Pass. 2352780, www.projectmom.com.

Disney’s Aladdin Jr. at the Plaza Theatre performed by students grades 2-7. $7 in advance, $10 at the door.

Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 2pm & 7pm. 524-9312, www. lyrictheatreokc.com.

Belle Isle.................5501 N Villa...........843-9601 Bethany................3510 N Mueller.........789-8363 Capitol Hill............ 334 SW 26th...........634-6308 Choctaw.................2525 Muzzy...........390-8418 Del City..................4509 SE 15th...........672-1377 Downtown.............300 Park Ave.......... 231-8650 Edmond............... 10 S Boulevard......... 341-9282 Midwest City......... 8143 E Reno........... 732-4828 Ralph Ellison....... 2000 NE 23rd...........424-1437 Southern Oaks....6900 S Walker.........631-4468 The Village........... 10307 N Penn.......... 755-0710 Warr Acres...........5901 NW 63rd...........721-2616 Harrah...............1930 N Church Ave.....454-2001 Jones.......................111 E Main............399-5471 Luther......................310 NE 3rd............ 277-9967 Nicoma Park...... 2240 Overholser........769-9452 Wright Library.... 2101 Exchange.........235-5035

Pioneer Library System www.pls.lib.ok.us

Blanchard............... 300 N Main............ 485-2275 McLoud....................133 N Main............964-2960 Moore.................... 225 S Howard.......... 793-5100 Newcastle............. 705 NW Tenth.......... 387-5076 Noble........................204 N 5th..............872-5713 Norman.................225 N Webster......... 701-2600 Purcell.................... 919 N Ninth............ 527-5546 Shawnee............101 N Philadelphia......275-6353 SW OKC............... 2201 SW 134th.........979-2200 Tecumseh............114 N Broadway........598-5955 Do you have an event for our calendar?

Email Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com All phone numbers are area code 405 unless otherwise noted. Information should be verified before attending events as details can change after press date.

Heart of Oklahoma Youth Rodeo Association Finals at Lazy E Arena (9600 Lazy E, Guthrie) invites children to compete in a variety of rodeo events. 834-4528, www.hoyra.com.

May 4–6 Better Book Sale at the Norman Public Library offers a wide selection of coffee table, rare & collectible books for purchase. Friday, 6-9pm; Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 1-5pm.

FREE Rose Rock Music Festival in downtown Noble features live music, art & craft vendors, food, parade, car show & more. 872-5535, www.nobleok.org.

Downtown Edmond Arts Festival in Downtown Edmond features over 100 artists & crafters, food, wine tasting & performing artists. Friday-Saturday, 10am-8pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. 249-9391, www. downtownedmondok.com.

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Piggy Nation: the Musical at the Sooner Theatre (101 E Main, Norman) is based on Richard Rosser's book, Piggy Nation: A Day at Work with Dad. $10.

Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday-Sunday, 3pm. 321-9600, www. soonertheatre.org.

May 4–June 24 Katherine Liontas-Warren: Oklahoma Perspectives at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee) features work by the Cameron University professor.

May 5 • Saturday

FREE Smart Start of Central Oklahoma Early Bird Class at MLK Elementary School (1201 NE 48) provides a school readiness program for parents with children ages birth to 5 years old living within the OKC Public School District. FREE educational resources & tips are provided to help stimulate your child’s development. Preregister. 10:30am-noon.

587-0422, www.earlybirdsok.org. Also held 5/8 at Ridgeview Elementary, 6-7:30pm; 5/12 at Cesar Chavez Elementary, 10:30-Noon & 1:30-3pm; 5/19 at Linwood Elementary, 10:30-Noon & 1:30-3pm.

FREE Comic Book Day at participating retailers across the country offers a FREE comic book to all customers to introduce new readers to the comic book medium.

Details found at www.freecomicbookday.com.

2012 Oklahoma Heart Failure Symposium: Fireside Chat with Dick Cheney at the Renaissance OKC (10 N Broadway) features the former US Vice President sharing his heart failure story & his life since.

Preregister. Noon. 951-2277.

Walk MS: OKC at the OKC Zoo benefits the National MS Society Oklahoma. Participate individually or as a team. No registration fee. Registration, 7am; Walk, 8:30am. 800-344-4867, www.walkmsok.org.

FREE Wayne McEvilly presents The Joy of Mozart at the Edmond Library features piano music for all ages.

2-3pm.

March for Babies at State Fair Park raises money for March of Dimes. Registration, 8am; Walk, 9am. 9431025, www.marchforbabies.org.

Autism Piece Walk & 5K at the Bricktown Ballpark benefits autism programs in our state through the work of Autism Oklahoma. Preregister. Walk 8:30am, 5K 9am. www.piecewalk.org.

Mother's Day Flower Pots at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial) invites little ones to decorate flower pots planted with native seeds for Mother's Day gifts. $8, includes supplies. 1pm & 4pm. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park.

May Fair 2012 at Andrews Park in Norman features art vendors, a 2K & 5K run, food, dancers, musical performers, children’s activities & more. 8am-7pm. www. norman.assistanceleague.org.

Cruise to the Park at Hafer Park in Edmond features the Central Oklahoma Classic Chevy Club Car Show.

8am-3pm. 363-1164, mike.rhoades@cox.net.

El Reno Fried Onion Burger Day in Downtown El Reno features live entertainment, arts & crafts, food, games, rides & more. 10am. 262-8888, www. elrenoburgerday.com.

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Pet! & Bawk & Roll, including book signing & craft. 1011:30am. 842-2900, www.fullcirclebooks.com.

Gospel Concert at Inspiration Hill (880669 S 3330 Rd, Wellston) features Jesse Lee Turner, Sacred Call & Tom Borror. 7pm. 356-4051.

Cinco de Mayo Cruise on the Oklahoma River departs from Meridian Landing & features an hour & a half sunset river cruise with music, appetizers & beverages.

Preregister. Must be 21 years old. $35. 7pm. 702-7755, www.okrivercruises.com.

May 5–20 Symphony Show House (440 NW 15) guided tours benefit the OKC Orchestra League & features room designs & displays by over 20 top designers. 848-6787, www.symphonyshowhouse.com.

May 6 • Sunday FREE Children's Auditions for Lyric's A Christmas Carol at the Thelma Gaylord Academy's Production Center (1801 NW 16). Children 7-16 may audition for the production which will be held 11/30-12/29. Preregister.

1pm. 524-9310, www.lyrictheatreokc.com.

FREE Pure Enjoyment Piano Concert with Wayne McEvilly at the Belle Isle Library features music, history & storytelling. 2-3pm.

Festival of the Child at Yukon City Park (2200 S Holly, Yukon) includes 50+ fun activities including crafts, storytelling, kayaking, moonbounces, performing arts stage & more. $5 advance, $7 at event, FREE for adults.

10am-4pm. 354-8442, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

FREE Open House at the American Organ Institute Shop at the University of Oklahoma (2101 W Tecumseh Suite C, Norman) showcases the work of the pipe organ program in restoration of pipe organs & components & refreshments. 3-5pm. 325-7829, http://aoi.ou.edu.

FREE Academy of Fine Arts & Character’s 1st Annual Spring Fling at Crossings Community Church (14600 N Portland) includes music, crafts, games, food, art, storytelling & more. 9am-noon. 242-5454, finearts@ crossingsokc.org, www.crossingsokc.org.

May 7 • Monday

FREE Storytime & Book Signing with Tammi Sauer at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expressway) features a storytime with Oklahoma children’s book author, Tammi Sauer for her latest releases Me Want

May 8 • Tuesday

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | May 2012

FREE Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

Storytime Science at Science Museum Oklahoma

features storytelling at its finest with SMO’s performer-puppeteer extraordinaire. FREE with paid admission.10am & 2pm.

Zoolympics at the OKC Zoo features interactive activities to teach kids about animal behaviors, conservation & health & fitness. FREE with admission.

OKC Redhawks vs. Las Vegas 51’s baseball at the Bricktown Ballpark. 7:05pm. $5 & up. 218-1000, www. okcredhawks.com. Other home games this month 5/9-15, 29-31.

2012 Edmond Touch-A-Truck at the University of Central Oklahoma benefits the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma’s Food for Kids Backpack Program & gives kids an opportunity for hands-on exploration of vehicles such as fire, police & construction vehicles. $3 suggested donation. 9am-1pm. www. edmondtouchatruck.com.

An Evening with Garrison Keillor at the Civic Center Music Hall features the host of A Prairie Home Companion. $45 & up. 7:30pm.

May 10 • Thursday FREE Moms Nite Out at Penn Square Mall (1901 NW Expressway) includes food, entertainment, giveaways, information on couponing, live demonstrations and more. First 250 in attendance receive a free Moms Nite Out tote bag. 5-8pm. www.facebook.com/ PennSquareMall.

May 10–26

FREE Pamper with a Purpose—Special Mother’s Day Health & Wellness Screening at INTEGRIS Comprehensive Breast Center of Oklahoma (3525 NW 56) for women to enjoy stress-free relaxation plus heart health screenings, bra fittings, chair massages & spa hand treatments. 9am-1pm. 951-2277.

Marvelous Mother’s Day at the Orr Family Farm (14400 S Western) offers FREE admission for moms, mining for gemstones & goodies in the Sweet Shoppe.

10am-6pm. 799-FARM, www.orrfamilyfarm.com.

Sense & Sensibility presented by Reduxion Theatre at the Broadway Theater (1613 N Broadway) features Shakespeare’s classic tale. $17 adults, $13 students/ seniors/military. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm.

590-5715, www.reduxiontheatre.com.

FREE Build & Grow Kid's Clinic—Picture Frame Planter at Lowe's stores offers kids an opportunity to complete a wooden project and receive an apron, goggles, a project-themed patch & a certificate of merit.

10am. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com.

May 11 • Friday

Wise Guys Benefit Concert at Lyric's Plaza Theatre (1725 NW 16) benefits the Thelma Gaylord Academy. $20. 7pm & 9:30pm. 524-9312, www.lyrictheatreokc. com.

FREE LEGO Club at the Village Library invites children & parents to have fun building with Legos. 1-3pm.

FREE Art a la Carte at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art includes live music, films & an art activity. 6-9pm.

FREE Norman’s 2nd Friday Circuit of Art connects the downtown arts district with galleries, performance halls, & Campus Corner. Trolley service between venues available at minimal cost. 6-10pm. 360-1162, www.2ndfridaynorman.com.

Tot Trot 5K Run & 1-Mile Walk at Stars & Stripes Park at Lake Hefner raises funds to support adoption & foster care programs. Inflatables & other activities available during the run & walk. $30 adults, $15 children & students. Check in, 5:30pm; Run, 6:30pm. 216-5240, www.christian-adoption.org.

FREE LIVE on the Plaza in the Plaza District (NW 16th between Classen & Penn) on the second Friday of each month includes art walk, local artists, live music & shopping. 7-11pm. www.plazadistrict.org.

FREE Aquarian Exposition presented by the Norman Groovefest at the Sooner Theatre is a welcome home benefit concert to raise funds for veteran’s resources. Sponsorships & donations welcome. 8pm. theaquarianexposition@gmail.com

May 12 • Saturday FREE Hershey’s Track Meet at Yukon Middle School (1029 Garth Brooks) is open to all youth to compete.

Preregister at Jackie Cooper Gym. 350-8920, www. cityofyukonok.gov.

NYSA PRIDE 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run hosted by the Norman Youth Soccer Association at the NYSA Soccer Complex (Robinson & 12 Ave NE, Norman) benefits scholarships for financially disadvantaged children that want to learn & play soccer. $30 ($35 race day) 5K, $15 1-Mile Fun Run. Race day registration, 6:30am; 5K, 8am; Fun Run, 9am. www.normansoccer.org.

May 13 • Sunday Mother’s Day Brunch at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum’s Dining on Persimmon Hill restaurant includes museum admission. 11am-3pm.

FREE 2nd Sunday Concert at the Downtown Library features jazz harpist Jessica Tate in a performance for the whole family. 2-3pm.

Mothers Get Pampered at OKC Redhawks vs. Tucson Padres baseball at the Bricktown Ballpark includes minispa treatments, massages & nail services while kids make Mother's Day t-shirts. 2pm. $5 & up. 218-1000, www.okcredhawks.com.

FREE Admission for Moms (Many venues require one paid admission per complimentary admission) • Oklahoma Aquarium, 10am-6pm.

• OKC Zoo, 9am-5pm.

• OKC Museum of Art, noon-5pm.

• American Banjo Museum, noon-5pm.

• OKC National Memorial Museum, noon-6pm.

• Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art, 1-4pm.

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May 15 • Tuesday Tiny Tuesdays: May Flowers at the OKC Museum of Art come & go, open-ended art activity for ages 2-5 with parent. FREE with paid admission. 10am-noon.

FREE Ladies Night Out presented by OU Physicians at Vin Dolce (16 S Broadway, Edmond) provides a glass of wine & light appetizers in addition to an opportunity to talk to physicians one-on-one about topics of interest.

Preregister 5:30-7:30pm. 844-5700.

May 17 • Thursday Wine, Women & Shoes hosted by World Neighbors at the OKC Farmer’s Public Market (311 S Klein) benefits WOW! (Work of Women) & features a fashions shoe, food & the latest in shoes & wine. $100, $375 for 4. www.workofwomen.org/events.

Calm Waters Center for Children & Families 20th Anniversary Celebration at OKC Golf & Country Club includes dinner & celebration. $150. 6:30pm. 841-4800, www.calmwaters.org.

A Moment of Clarity: 60th Anniversary Celebration at the OK History Center features live music & dancing to benefit the Mental Health Association of Central OK. 509-9312, www.mentalhealthok.org.

Fandango at the Harn: Rockabilly Royalty at the Harn Homestead Museum (1721 N Lincoln) honors Oklahoma’s own Wanda Jackson. For ages 21 & up. $50. 7-11pm. 235-4058, www.harnhomestead.com.

May 18 • Friday FREE Yukon’s Bike to Work from City Hall (500 W Main, Yukon) to the Community Center. Includes refreshments & door prizes. 350-7680, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

Girl Scout Day at Frontier City (11501 NW Expressway) for Scouts & all those interested. Advance tickets available through Girl Scouts. 478-2140, www. frontiercity.com.

Opening Day at White Water Bay (3908 W Reno).

10:30am-6pm. 943-9687, www.whitewaterbay.com.

Girl Scout Workshop: Senses or Flowers at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History for Brownie & Junior scouts includes workshops & activities.

1 free adult per 5 scouts. $10 per scout. Senses for Brownies, 10am-1:30pm; Flowers for Juniors, 11:30am-2:30pm.

FREE Film: Beauty & The Beast at Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art screens this Disney favorite. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 10:30am-12:30pm.

FREE Community Art Day: Foam Prints with Artist Linda Dixon at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art invites the community to create artwork. 1-3pm. 878-5300, www.mgmoa.org.

Family Fun Night at KickingBird Golf Club (1600 E Danforth, Edmond) invites families to play 9 holes with special junior tees. Preregister. FREE putting course. $6 green fees, $6 carts, $2 range tokens. Tee times start at 5pm. 341-5350, www.kickingbirdgolf.com.

Fort Reno Ghost Tours at Historic Fort Reno (7107 W Cheyenne, El Reno) tells tales & urban legends of haunted buildings, villainous murders, lost treasure & more. Preregister. Held the third Saturday of each month through November. $8 adults, $5 ages 5-12.

7:30pm. 262-3987, www.fortreno.org.

Friday Afternoon Club at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial) invites patrons to enjoy the park after hours with art workshops, exhibitors, nature displays & speakers. Held the third Friday of the through September. 6-8pm. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/ martin_park.

OKC Philharmonic–Classics Season Finale at the Civic Center Music Hall features pianist, JeanYves Thibaudet. $15 & up. 8pm. 842-5387, www. okcphilharmonic.org.

FREE Third Friday Celtic Night at Sonder Music (225 E Gray, Norman) features traditional Celtic music jam & dancing. Held the third Friday of the month. 8pm. 4749734, www.sondermusic.com.

FREE Luncheon on the Grass at Lions Park in Norman features hands-on art activities, music and treats from the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, the Norman Firehouse Art Center, the Jacobson House Native Art Center & Norman Arts Council. Bring picnic blankets, lunch & drinks. 4-6:30pm. www. normanfirehouse.com.

May 18–19 2nd's Best Consignment Sale at the State Fair Park Expo Hall (3001 General Pershing). Maternity & children’s clothing, furniture, toys, books, homeschool supplies & baby gear. Friday, 1-8pm; Saturday, 9amnoon, 1-4pm (half-price sale) & 4:15-5pm ($1 sale).

638-5768, www.2ndsbest.info.

May 19 • Saturday NAMI Oklahoma Walk at Stars & Stripes Park at Lake Hefner benefits the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

230-1900, http://ok.nami.org.

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Limbs for Life Blaze Through the Zoo at the OKC Zoo. 5K run & 1-mile walk benefitting Limbs for Life. $25 in advance, $30 race-day. Registration, 6:30am; Race start, 8am. 605-5462, www.limbsforlife.org.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | May 2012

May 20 • Sunday

FREE Family Day at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art invites families to explore the museum’s collections & exhibitions & enjoy hands-on art activities. 1-4pm.

The second annual Mud Run includes a 1.5- and 3-mile obstacle course through mud and hills to benefit local animal rescues. Beginning at 1pm, 4920 SW 134th, OKC. $40 before 5/14, $50 on race day, discounts for teams. Visit www.dgroadracing.com or www.fitwvic. come to register.

Discovery Family Series: All Fired Up presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music presents Hosedown: A Firefighter Fable with fire dancers, firefighters & sizzling music. $9. 2pm. 8425387, www.okcphilharmonic.com.

May 22 • Tuesday FREE Gaming Club at the Belle Isle Library invites teens to play everything from chess to Xbox Kinect plus popcorn & drinks. 4-5pm.

May 25 • Friday Flower Vase Session at Paint Your Art Out (100 N Broadway Suite 160, Edmond) invites participants to create a masterpiece on canvas. Preregister. $35. 7pm.

513-5333, www.paintyourartout.net.

FREE Film: Walt & El Grupo at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art. A rare glimpse into the artists who were part of the magic of Disney’s golden age. 6-8pm.

May 26 • Saturday FREE Build & Grow Kid's Clinic–Ice Cream Truck at Lowe's stores offers kids an opportunity to complete a wooden project and receive an apron, goggles, a project-themed patch & a certificate of merit. 10am. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com.

Theo & the Magic Road at the Plaza Theatre performed by students ages 12-18. $7 advance, $10 at door. 2pm & 7pm. 524-9312, www.lyrictheatreokc.com.

May 27 • Sunday Fiesta de Verano presented by La Zeta at Frontier City (11501 NW Expressway) FREE concert with park admission. 478-2140, www.frontiercity.com.

Bird Cafe at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial) invites guests to create a bird feeder using single-serving yogurt containers. $2. 755-0676, www. okc.gov/parks/martin_park.

May 28–June 1 Homeschool Days at Frontier City (11501 NW Expressway) invites all homeschoolers & their families to enjoy a discounted day of fun. Tickets available online only with promo code “HOME”. 478-2140, www. frontiercity.com.

May 31 • Thursday FREE Moore Summer Reading Kick-Off features a parade from City Hall to the Moore Public Library to kick-off the summer reading program, plus crafts, story telling, snacks & games. 10am-11:30am.

JUNE 2012 June 1 • Friday FREE Norman Children’s Summer Share Fair at the Norman Public Library includes information on local summer activities for children & families. 1-3pm.

OKC Redhawks vs. Nashville Sounds baseball at the Bricktown Ballpark. 7:05pm. $5 & up. 218-1000, www. okcredhawks.com. Other home games this month: 6/2-5, 7-10, 23-26, 30.

June 1–2 FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo Arts District features over 60 artists in 17 galleries. Friday, 6-10pm; Saturday, noon-5pm. 525-2688, www. thepaseo.com.

June 1–10 Native American New Play Festival at the City Space Theatre in the Civic Center Music Hall features a new play by celebrated Native American poet, novelist & playwright Diane Glancy and staged readings of the 2012 Festival finalists. See website for schedule. 8127737, www.okctheatrecompany.org.

June 2 FREE Princess Story Time at Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen). Listen to a story read by a princess. 10:30am.

418-8881, www.uptownkidsstyle.com.

Gospel Concert at Inspiration Hill (880669 S 3330 Rd, Wellston) A love offering will be received. 7pm.

356-4051.

June 3 • Sunday FREE National Cancer Survivor’s Day: A Celebration of Life at the Magnuson Hotel & Convention Center (737 S Meridian) includes a presentation by Dr. Mary Ann Bauman, survivor recognition & butterfly release. Preregister. Call by 5/18 for special survivor recognition. 1:30-3:30pm. 951-2277.

June 4 • Monday FREE Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

June 5 • Tuesday FREE Family Night Out at Quail Springs Mall (2501 W Memorial). Family-friendly activities in the Food Court.

5:30-7:30pm. 755-6530, www.quailspringsmall.com.

Ladies Night Out at Be Wild for Art (1006 24th Ave NW, Norman) is a night out with friends. Bring snacks & beverages of choice. $4 studio fee. 6-9pm. 307-9971, www.bewildforart.com.

May 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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No matter what time of year or occasion, you'll find the BEST partyplanning choices in the area right here.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | May 2012

Reach over

80,000 readers.

Connect with moms of central Oklahoma.

Call Today!

405-601-2081

Michael B. and Ford B., age 1, of Edmond at Anna Marie Island, Florida.

Stephanie C., Harry C., age 2, and Addison C., age 7, of Norman at Woolaroc in Bartlesville.

Matthew N., Rebekah N., Madelyn N., age 11 and Hannah N., age 7, of Midwest City at Disney World in Orlando.

Family Vacations!

To kick off summer, we asked our readers to submit their favorite vacation photos from travels both inside and outside of Oklahoma.

View all submissions at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/ may-2012-photos.

Ethan B., age 5, Margaret B., and Allison B., age 6, of Edmond in Red River, New Mexico.

John B., Julia B., age 9, and Kristin B. of Oklahoma City in Muir Woords National Park in San Francisco, California.

Tasha F., Mac, Brandon F., Isabella F., age 7, and Kennedy F., age 5, of Elgin at the Arkansas River in Buena Vista, Colorado.

Haleigh M, age 4, Connon M., age 10, and Tim M. of Moore overlooking Cumberland River and LP Field in Nashville, Tennessee.

For our June issue, share your best father & child photos in honor of Father's Day by Thursday, May 17.

For July, we want to see your family having fun in or around the water, so submit your best splashpad, pool, river or lake photos to us by Friday, June 15. Guidelines and a photo submission form can be found at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/mfm-photo-galleries.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | May 2012