09 13digital edition by MetroFamily Magazine

September 2013

Is Your Teen Ready...? The best age for getting a cell phone, staying home alone & more!

Learning Leadership: Teen cover kid winner Josh Bruza on Scouting

10 great places to shop for your teen

Nominate your â&#x20AC;&#x153;Family Favoritesâ&#x20AC;? in our annual awards program! Info on p. 4

Over 151 ways to have fun in OKC this month! metrofamilymagazine.com

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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

SAVE MONEY

NOMINA TE YOUR FAVES!

Help Us Honor the Most Family-Friendly Businesses in OKC! MetroFamily’s Family Favorites awards proogram is back and better than ever! This year, the program offers the opportunity to honor businesses in more than 80 different categories, including fun new categories such as best place for pizza night, best place to swim and the best place to buy a birthday cake or cupcakes. The purpose of Family Favorites is to allow you to tell fellow parents which businesses do an outstanding job serving local families. Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/family-favorites to nominate your favorite local businesses! Nominations will be accepted from September 5–October 15. The most nominated businesses will become category finalists. The winners in each category will be determined by a popular vote held November 1–15. Submit your nominations today! Also, in October, MetroFamily will debut our new look! Watch for a cool new design as we focus exclusively exclusively on all things “to do” for family fun and learning in the OKC metro area, around the state and region. We can’t wait to share our new look with you! Other great resources: • It’s fall consignment sale time in OKC! Find the best ways to save on children’s clothes, toys and more with our 2013 Guide to Consignment Sales and Stores. (www.metrofamilymagazine.com/consignment) • Fall and Halloween fun is just around the corner! Our 2013 Fall Fun Guide will be available September 15 and features great fall events, local pumpkin patches, trick-or-treat fun and more! (www.metrofamilymagazine.com/fall-fun)

Join the MetroFamily community of active local parents at:

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | September 2013

You could WIN big! Sign up to be eligible for great prizes at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/contests. • Thomas the Tank Engine chugs into the Oklahoma Railway Museum from September 27-October 6 (weekends only). Four lucky winners will receive a four-pack of tickets to A Day Out with Thomas, valued at $64. Deadline September 19. • Enter to win one of three family fivepacks of tickets (each valued at $125) to the Friday, October 11 performance of MOWGLI, The Jungle Book Ballet, produced by OKC Ballet at the Civic Center Music Hall (October 11-13). Deadline September 30. • Our popular Fall Family Fun Contest is back! Enter to win tickets to Haunt the Harn at Harn Homestead, Bouncin’ Craze, Museum of Osteology’s 3rd Annual Halloween Bash, Orr Family Farm, Sam Noble Museum, Chester’s Pumpkin Patch & Three-Acre Mystery Maze and Arcadia Lake’s Storybook Forest. Deadline September 30. • Follow us on Twitter (www.twitter. com/metrofamily) and Facebook (www. facebook.com/metrofamily) for the announcements of other fun contests.

You could SAVE big! Find coupons to the businesses listed below at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/coupons. • Project Mom • Skate Galaxy • Studio J • The Vintage Pearl • Bouncin’ Craze • Jump!Zone • Bright Smile Family Dentistry • The Wiggles “Taking Off!” World Tour • Paint N’ Station • Club Z! In-Home Tutoring PLUS, save big bucks with the 2013-14 Kids Pass that includes over 30 awesome coupons to local and statewide attractions. These coupons don’t expire until April 2014, so you can print and use as many as you like. Download your own Kids Pass at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-pass.

Contents September 2013

Dear MetroFamily

Family Shorts

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note

Community news, resources & other family-friendly information

14 Real Moms of the Metro Meet Traci Cook: cancer survivor & advocate for the mentally ill

21 Calendar

Fun events, activities and classes

30 Exploring Oklahoma with Children

Prairie Song: Oklahomaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Old West Town

34 Learning Adventures Make your own journal

36 Your Healthy Family

Talking with your teen about sex

38 Local Shopping

Looking for an extracurricular that is slightly off the beaten path? Check out our suggestions for extraordinary extracurriculars, including scouting, wrestling programs for girls and more.

16 35

Nearly New: affordable fashion

42 Ask the Experts

Tackling teen/tween issues: communication, sex & money

Wondering if your child is old enough to tackle important life milestones? Find out what our experts and local parents recommend for big life issues.

46 Mom Gets the Last Laugh

Spilling it: how one mom overshared with her teen

See highlights from our LemonAID for Tornado Recovery project and learn how our readers helped to lend a hand to those in need.

ON OUR COVER AND ABOVE: 14-year-old Josh Bruza of Edmond is the son of Margret and Jim D. Bruza and is our 2013 Teen Cover Kid winner. Learn more about his experiences with Boy Scout Troop 177 on p. 9. COVER PHOTO BY: Steffanie Halley, www.steffaniehalley.com. ABOVE PHOTO COURTESY OF: Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

Dear MetroFamily,

My “babies” beginning a new school year. Murphy, age 7, and Graham, age 4.

In my mind, my children are still babies. Practically newborns. Barely potty trained. It still feels like I am just getting the hang of this entire parenting thing, even though my daughter is almost eight and my son almost five. Despite my self-delusions, the fact is that they are both in school, participating in after-school activities and growing more and more independent every day. I managed to successfully ignore this fact until a good friend pointed out that my daughter is nearly a “tween”—and I suddenly realized that she has begun asking more difficult questions, is able to do most things for herself and now pays more attention to Big Time Rush than Bubble Guppies. The hard truth is that the teen years will be here before I know it, and I’ll soon be navigating high school, driver’s licenses and first crushes. Which is pretty amazing, considering it feels like they were both just born yesterday!

This month’s issue is all about teens and tweens, and our goal is to provide you with valuable information to help you make the most of this important time in your child’s life. Whether you are a seasoned pro in the teen scene or just approaching those years like I am, columnist Shannon Fields’ articles on talking to your teen about sex (p. 36) and helping them to explore their interests and passions (p.32) can give you important pointers to consider along the way. And, if you are wondering when the appropriate time is to coach your child through some of life’s major milestones, feature writer Mari Farthing shares the appropriate ages for such things as opening a checking account, staying home alone and getting a cell phone on p. 16. (And, to get a feel for how times have changed, see our contributors’ answers below!) In September, we also kick off the nominations for our Family Favorites Awards, honoring the most family-friendly businesses in the metro. I encourage you to take a few minutes to share your favorite venues, restaurants and retail stores with us at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ family-favorites. Lastly, we are very pleased to announce the outcome of our LemonAID for Tornado Recovery project—turn to p. 35 to see how our incredible readers helped us assist those still in need in our community.

Happy reading!

Mari Farthing, “What Age is Your Child Ready?” feature story

Sarah Taylor, Publisher

I was 26. It was gigantic. And I don’t think it even had caller ID.

I was 29. It was a big Motorola model that you basically had to use two hands to hold to your ear. My oldest was 16 when she got her first cell phone and my youngest was just 10!

Jennifer Geary, Exploring Oklahoma with Children

Heather Davis, Mom Gets the Last Laugh

I had a bag phone in high school—the whole family shared it and I took it if I had to work late. I didn’t get a “real” cell phone until I was 22!.

I was 24 and it was a bag phone that plugged into the cigarette lighter (not electric port) of my 1992 Cavalier!

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | September 2013

To submit events to our calendar calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com Publisher Sarah L. Taylor sarah@metrofamilymagazine.com Editor Brooke Barnett editor@metrofamilymagazine.com Art Director Kathryne Taylor kathryne@metrofamilymagazine.com Advertising Sales Lisa Kelley, Sales Director Athena Delce Dana Price ads@metrofamilymagazine.com Office and Distribution Manager Kathy Alberty kathy@metrofamilymagazine.com Assistant Editor Sara Riester projects@metrofamilymagazine.com Calendar Editor Nicole Beal calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com Contributing Writers Brooke Barnett, Stephanie Clinton, Heather Davis, Jennifer Geary, Mari Farthing, Shannon Fields, Terri Folks Circulation 35,000 – OKC, Edmond, Nichols Hills, Norman, Moore, Midwest City, Yukon Also available as a digital edition at MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

We asked our contributors:

What age did you get your first cell phone?

Info And Questions: 405-601-2081

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 Office: 405-601-2081 • Fax: 405-445-7509 E-mail: info@metrofamilymagazine.com ©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2013, All Rights Reserved. Volume 16, Number 9

Contributing writers: Brooke Barnett, Stephanie Clinton & Terri Folks

Photo courtesy of Celebrity Attractions

Keep Your Child Healthy During Fall Allergy Season

Wicked Brings OKC Native to the Stage by Stephanie Clinton

Wicked will be flying back to Oklahoma City September 4th-22nd, with a native Oklahoman as part of the cast. Jillian Kates (ensemble and understudy to Glinda and Nessarose) has been a member of the traveling cast for nearly two years and is ecstatic to be returning to her hometown for performances at the Civic Center Music Hall. MetroFamily had the pleasure to speak with Jillian and learn how her background in the arts in Oklahoma helped her land a part in this Grammy and Tony award-winning show. MFM: You are from Oklahoma City. How did your experience performing with local theater companies such as Lyric Theatre groom you for what you are doing now? JK: I feel like it was all building blocks. Without Lyric (Theatre) I wouldn’t have gotten into the school I got into. From there I got the exposure I needed to get this job. It all led to this and Lyric and Oklahoma were a big step in that. MFM: Has performing been a lifelong passion? JK: Yes, it never was a question for me. I started really young. My mom would walk us down to Jewelbox Theater for the summer shows. From what she tells me after the shows I would run up on stage and she couldn’t get me down. It’s always been in me. Oklahoma was the perfect place for me to nurture that passion. MFM: What role did your family take in your dream of being a performer? How did they support you? JK: Beyond my training, I would say that my family supporting me and providing for those lessons is really the foundation to my career. My parents were so supportive and even before I could articulate what I wanted, my mom could see that I had this love and passion from an early age. She found out what we needed to do and got me into voice class and then into dance. When it was time for high school, she knew about Classen (School of Advanced Studies) and I auditioned for that— check. Then, she found (Lyric Theatre’s Thelma Gaylord) Academy and I auditioned for that—check. I really credit them for everything because if I didn’t have this training I wouldn’t have much of anything. I appreciate them so much for that. They wanted me to be happy and I think that’s the best thing you can do for a kid. In addition to the Wicked performances, Jillian and other cast members will star in a special performance of Witches Night Off on September 9th in the Freede Little Theatre at the Civic Center Music Hall. Produced by Wicked company members, the evening features some of their favorite material. Net proceeds benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity and Oklahoma City Repertory Theatre. Tickets begin at $35 and admission donations are tax-deductible. Tickets are available by calling 405-297-2264 or at www.myticketoffice.com. For information about Wicked, visit www.celebrityattractions.com.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | September 2013

by Terri Folks

Oklahoma’s wet summer will likely lead to an early fall allergy season. According to Oklahoma Allergy & Asthma Clinic’s BoardCertified Allergist Jim Claflin, M.D., about 40 percent of Oklahoma’s adults and children suffer from allergies. “Basically there is no difference in symptoms between a cold and allergies—sneezing, stuffy nose and coughing. The only difference is that a cold goes away in 5 to 7 days and allergies don’t go away,” says Claflin. People develop allergies anywhere from ages five to 30, but some children can develop symptoms in their first year. Claflin says that as children become more mobile in the first to second year, exposure increases to outside and inside allergens such as pollen, dust mites and pet dander. If parents suspect that their child might have allergies, Claflin recommends having the child tested by an allergist. Allergies tend to run in families and have been on the rise since the early 1980s. While there is no cure for allergies, they can be managed with proper prevention and treatment. Parents can help their children with these avoidance techniques: • Once the infant moves out of the crib to a bed, use encasings for the pillow, mattress and box springs to help keep the dust mites away. • Keep pets out of bedrooms and bathe all pets weekly to reduce pet dander. • No pets such as rats, gerbils, hamsters birds or rabbits should be kept inside the house. These animals are more allergenic than cats and dogs. • Wash the child’s hair every night if he or she has been outside. • No open windows fall or spring. Use your central heat and air. • Don’t hang freshly washed clothes outdoors to dry. • No riding in the car with the windows down. • No smoking at all. Even residual smoke on clothing can be an irritant.

Top 10 Reader Picks: Best Places to Shop for Teens & Tweens

Photo courtesy of Josh Burza

By the time your child is a teen or tween, she has likely developed her own sense of style—and the days where you can pick out her clothes are long gone. Whether she is into eco-chic, retro hip or modern casual, it is important to find the clothes she likes at prices that won’t break the bank. When it comes to shopping for teens and tweens, the Oklahoma City metro offers many great retail places to find cool clothes, shoes and accessories. We recently polled our readers for their favorite places to shop. Here, in random order, are their recommendations. Josh Bruza (far left) with fellow Scouts from Troop 177 at the 2013 National Scout Jamboree in West Virginia.

Meet Josh Bruza, our Teen Cover Kid Winner: Learning Leadership through Scouting:

Scouting has been a life-changing experience to 14-year-old Josh Bruza, the teen winner in MetroFamily’s 2013 Cover Kids Search. While being a Boy Scout has benefitted him significantly over the past three years, his initial experience with scouting wasn’t all that great. “I was in Cub Scouts when I was younger and ended up earning my Arrow of Light,” he explains. “But I didn’t really like Cub Scouts. I was kind of an outsider.” Fortunately, he went on to join Boy Scout Troop 177 when he was 11 years old. “I started just going to meetings and it was a lot of fun for me,” he says. “I got more and more involved and learned from the older Scouts.” Over the next three years, the troop continued to grow and expand, providing Josh with ample opportunities for leadership and increased responsibility. “I was elected as one of the troop’s senior patrol leaders,” he says. “I progressed through the ranks and earned my star ranking.” Josh is now just one merit badge short of earning the life ranking, with his ultimate goal being to become an Eagle Scout. For Josh, Scouting is more than just meetings and merit badges. “Scouting teaches you so much,” he explains. “Especially when it comes to leadership. It truly prepares you for anything you might face. I used to be really shy and was scared to go in front of the classroom in school. Now, I can speak in front of large groups. It has taught me how to face my fears and come out better.” Now an 8th grade year at Cimarron Middle School in Edmond, Josh says that the adventures that Scouting has made possible for him are an added bonus. “One of my favorite things that I have done as a Scout was to take a zip line across the forest at the 2013 National Jamboree in West Virginia. The zip line was 800 ft long and 300 feet off the ground, and I went about 50 miles per hour. It felt amazing. In Scouting, you get to do exciting things that you wouldn’t get to do normally. There are a bunch of high adventure opportunities—sailing ships, hiking, scuba diving and more.”

• Plato’s Closet (2229 NW 138th Street, www.platoscloset.com) • Daisy Exchange (locations in Moore and Oklahoma City, www.daisyexchange.com) • Justice (locations in Moore, Norman and Oklahoma City, www.shopjustice.com) • Nearly New (9218 N Western Ave, www. facebook.com/nearlynewokc) • Forever 21 (locations in Norman and Oklahoma City, www.forever21.com) • Academy (multiple locations, www. academy.com) • NSTYLE Fashion Xchange (1822 E 2nd St, Edmond; www.nstylefashionxchange. com) • Just Between Friends of Norman/ Oklahoma City (www.okc.jbfsale.com, www.norman.jbfsale.com.) • Ross Dress for Less (multiple locations, www.rossstores.com) • Hot Topic (locations in Norman and Oklahoma City, www.hottopic.com) Thanks to Jenn M., Kathy W, Nicole C., Dave G., Dorothy W., Sarah T., Jennifer S., Katie W., Tracy J. & Nina D. for contributing to this list. Follow us at www.facebook.com/metrofamily to weigh in on next month’s list. Have a place you’d like to suggest? Comment at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/teen-shopping.

For more information about Boy Scouts of America, visit www.scouting.org. For local scouting info, call 405-848-2426 or visit www.lastfrontiercouncil.org.

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

Image courtesy of the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma CIty

Free Parenting Skills Classes Available Are you an authoritarian, authoritative or permissive parent? For parents interested in learning about the three different kinds of parent styles and discussing the challenges and concerns about parenting in today’s world, a free Parenting Skills class kicks off on Wednesday, September 4 at Bethany’s Lutheran Church of Our Savior (6501 NW 23rd Street). Classes will run for 16 weeks and parents can attend as many or as few as they like. Topics to be discussed will include positive discipline, the importance of routines, stages of child development, the importance of play, developing social skills, dealing with temper tantrums, sibling rivalry, sleep problems and more. Seating is limited and each class will be held from 6:30–7:20pm. Nursery and childcare provided. For more information, call 405-495-1605.

Spotlight on Character: Enthusiasm “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.”

— Ralph Waldo Emerson

Enthusiasm is expressing joy in each task while giving it the best effort possible. Enthusiasm in the home includes completing chores in good time with a positive attitude and tackling work with a vision of how it will benefit others. Within a family, enthusiasm includes showing excitement about lessons learned through life’s struggles and showing genuine interest in the activities that other family members enjoy. The rewards of enthusiasm are having a renewed excitment about life and the physical and psychological benefits of a positive attitude. I will: be an energy-giver • smile • treat every job as important • put my whole heart into what I do • not be discouraged by failure. Read about enthusiasm to bring the lesson home to your young children: • According to the laws of aerodynamics, bees should not be able to fly because their wings are too small. But, bees can in fact fly—and this “can do” attitude is at the heart of the inspirational message in Bee Attitude: A Positive Motivational Book for Kids by Bea Grace Curri. (Ages 6-12) • Help your child develop an appreciation for how thoughts can affect their actions and have a profound effect on what happens in their life by reading I Think, I Am!: Teaching Kids the Power of Affirmations by Louise Hay. (Ages 3-7) • Featuring 10 important life lessons, Unstoppable Me!: 10 Ways to Soar Through Life by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer shares how to encourage your child to hold on to “no-limit” thinking and take important risks to enjoy life and attain dreams. (Ages 4-8) Courtesy of Character First, www.characterfirst.com.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | September 2013

Donate Gently Used Sports Equipment to Help Kids in Need Sports provide a way for children of all ages to strengthen their bodies, minds and character. In Oklahoma, one out of every four families lives in poverty. Those kids may never get to play sports as their family may not be able to afford the required equipment. During September, the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City is partnering with Oklahoma Cleats for Kids, an Oklahoma City based nonprofit organization, to collect and distribute sports shoes, clothes and equipment to kids in need. Oklahoma Cleats For Kids recycles running shoes, cleats, and equipment for all types of sports. The donated items are available for school and league coaches, families and organizations that have kids in need. “Assisting Oklahoma Cleats for Kids by providing collection locations for sporting goods aligned with our desire to provide opportunities for all and eliminate barriers to children being able to participate,” said Angela Jones, Director of Health and Wellness Initiatives. “As quickly as children grow, we know generous Y families and members of our community will be willing to donate gently-used shoes and sporting goods.” Throughout September, metro area YMCAs will provide collection bins in their lobbies for individuals to donate youth sporting goods. Participating Ys include the Bethany YMCA, Chickasha Area YMCA, Earlywine Park YMCA, Edmond YMCA, Edward L Gaylord Downtown YMCA, Midwest City YMCA, North Side YMCA and Rockwell Plaza YMCA. For more information, visit www.ymcaokc.org.

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

Preparing Teens for College Expenses Tuition is not the only cost associated with college. It is important for families with a college-bound teen to budget for additional costs that are often overlooked. With the average spending on college for the 2013 academic year exceeding $21,000 (according to Daily Finance), students heading to college need to also consider the costs of necessary items including school supplies, electronics, repairs and more. “The cost of college is rarely as straightforward as it seems,” said Suzanne Symcox, executive vice president for First Fidelity Bank in Oklahoma. “Setting aside funds for unexpected expenses is the best way to avoid a financial set back.” Symcox suggests the following tips when preparing college budgets:

A Worry Cloud created by children attending Calm Waters’ Tornado Relief Support Groups reflects how the May tornado affected their family.

Bringing Calm After the Storm Along with thousands of school-age children, Calm Waters Center for Children and Families is heading back to school. Calm Waters is a nonprofit organization that provides free school-based and on-site support groups for children and their families. Schoolbased programs are specifically for students who are grieving due to a death, divorce, incarceration, deployment or other significant loss issue within their family. Since its inception 21 years ago, Calm Waters has assisted more than 23,000 children and their families in grief programs and services. Last year, Calm Waters provided free Grief Support Groups for 1,342 school-aged children in 72 schools throughout the metro area. In response to the recent tornado disaster, Calm Waters has expanded services to include losses from community disasters. “CALMing the Children” was implemented to help parents, children and the entire Moore community. This outreach will soon be extended to other cities impacted by tornadoes, such as El Reno and Shawnee. “One of the students shared with me that going to Calm Waters was the best part of his week,” said Lisa Loosen Mullen, board Chairperson and group facilitator at Calm Waters. “It gave him a group to connect with and it was very helpful to talk about his loss without fear.” In order to accomplish its work with those impacted by the recent tornadoes, Calm Waters is in need of financial contributions and volunteers. For more information, call 405-8414800 or visit www.calmwaters.org. Image courtesy of Calm Waters.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | September 2013

• Look for cheaper options when purchasing books and school supplies. Start looking early and buy used books. You can also find used books on sites like Amazon and eBay. Wait to purchase school supplies until you know exactly what you will need for each class and shop with friends to make the most of savings opportunities, such as “buy two, get one free” and other bulk savings options. • Buy food in bulk. College life requires many adjustments, including meal choices. Fast food and eating out is quick and convenient, but those costs add up quickly. Buying food in bulk, cooking at home, exploring dorm food plans and using coupons help students save where it counts. • Factor in laptop costs. As with any electronic device, repairs and replacements are inevitable. Look into warranty and insurance options and consider payment plans to break up costs. Right before school starts is a great time to find deals and discounts on laptops. • Plan ahead for transportation and traveling costs. Consider walking, biking, carpooling and using campus buses to save money on transportation while on campus. If you need to purchase a plane ticket to get home for the holidays, buy it months in advance if possible. • Utilize student discounts for weekend activities. Work out a budget that is easy to stick to during the week so you have extra funds to spend on activities and events on the weekends. Look for group and student discounts at restaurants, movie theaters and sporting events to make these events work within a college budget.

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

Real Moms of the Metro Meet Traci Cook, Cancer Survivor and Mental Illness Advocate

Photograph by Casey Linde, http://www.raynedp.com

raci Cook accepted her perfect job as the Executive Director of NAMI Oklahoma on the exact same day she was diagnosed with stage II breast cancer. “Talk about a roller coaster day of emotions,” she recollects. But the mother of five says this challenge is just one of the many life experiences that have made her stronger. Traci first became aware of NAMI Oklahoma (the National Alliance on Mental Illness) 12 years ago when her daughter was diagnosed with a mental illness. “The staff members really helped me by educating me about mental illness and supporting me through my journey,” she explains. “It made me a better parent and advocate.” When the Executive Director position became available, Traci decided to apply in order to provide the same assistance to others. “It is my dream job,” she says. “It’s an honor to help others every day.” Traci’s experiences with her daughter have guided her as she navigates her new position. “I know what it’s like to have a child with a disability and not know what to do. Navigating the medical and educational system is not easy and can be overwhelming,” she says. “Family members helping and educating each other is a proven model of effective support. I believe it’s the way life should be—people helping people.” And with the Oklahoma State Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services indicating that one in every four Oklahomans suffers from a mental illness, the work and support that Traci’s organization provides is vital. But providing support and awareness for mental illness is only part of Traci’s focus— her cancer diagnosis has also had a powerful impact on her life. She attributes her diagnosis and the effects of chemotherapy

Quick Facts About Traci 1.What is your favorite indulgence? Getting a massage, pedi, and facial! 2.What’s on your playlist? Toby Mac, Third Day & Miranda Lambert. 3.What’s always in your handbag? Hand sanitizer. Germs = bad. 4.What’s your favorite movie? The Sound of Music. 5.Coffee or tea? Tea—hot tea, cold tea, sleepy tea, chai tea, lemon tea—all tea! Love it!

Back row, from left: Ciara (age 19), Real Mom Traci, husband Jake, Hannah (age 18) and Joshua (age 13). Front row, from left: Emma (age 6) and Ella (age 6).

on her physical appearance in helping her to discover whom she truly is. “I had become this person who was nice looking and physically strong,” she says. “Surgery and chemotherapy took all of that away. I will never forget looking in the mirror and not recognizing myself. It was terrifying.” Traci started seeing a counselor to help her work through her grief and to dig deeper to discover her inner strength. “Because I am at risk of having cancer again, I will be closely monitored by my oncologist,” she says. “Truly knowing that my life is very temporary has given me a whole new perspective. I appreciate every moment I have with my family. I have become much closer to God and have a renewed hope for the future.” And this renewed hope helps her to keep her life moving forward. “We are a very busy family,” she explains. “I’ll be honest with you in that, since my diagnosis, I have had to slow down a bit. I’ve not gotten my energy completely back yet.” Traci’s motto is that, with five children, if it’s not on her calendar, it will never happen. “My job is quite demanding, so I have to plan ahead as much as possible,” she adds. “It’s not easy to balance work, family and self-care; but I have learned, especially this year, that it is something I must do each day.” Here is more on how this 44-year-old mom seeks to find that balance while continuing to advocate for mental illness in Oklahoma. What inspires you? People who have disabilities and continue to overcome the barriers set before them.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | September 2013

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I grew up in a small town (Tonkawa) and was driving a tractor when I was about 14 years old. What are you passionate about? I am passionate about giving others hope for the future. A positive attitude, regardless of circumstances, can give folks hope and a sense of peace. I like to say that, while I never wanted to be a quarterback, I love being a cheerleader. I love watching others win and cheering them on from the sidelines. How has motherhood changed you? Motherhood has made me a better person. I have learned just as much from my children as they have learned from me. I have learned to stop and pay attention to the details from my artistic girls; and to be courageous and face my fears from my brave son. I have learned that forgiveness is really not as hard as we think it is. I have learned that family is the most important thing we have on this earth How do you banish stress? I like to read mystery novels. Seems to provide a good escape and perks my imagination. I like to run, although it has been hard to do so lately. I am getting stronger each day and looking forward to running some 5Ks next year.

What are you most proud of? I am most proud of my heritage and being raised in a small town in Oklahoma. I believe that growing up in a small town and having traditional values is the greatest gift I have ever been given. I thank God for my family and my raising each day. What motivates you? I’m pretty competitive. It doesn’t take much to get me motivated. How do you find balance in your life? When things get out of balance, I find more time for prayer and quiet time. I try to eat well and exercise, too. I find that when things get hectic, I need to focus on my own wellness to get through. When I don’t do that, it typically doesn’t end well. Lesson learned. Advice for other moms? Take time to play with your kids, even when they are teenagers. Some of my favorite moments are playing board games with my kids. It is great time to talk to them about their day or just have some R&R together.

What is your parenting style? Definitely an organized diplomatic parent. Although, if they don’t agree with me, I can probably talk them to death until they will agree just to get me to be quiet. Favorite quote or advice about motherhood? Live out loud! I encourage my children to be themselves and be confident in who they truly are. Being a carbon copy of every other person just to be popular is not what God intended us to be. He wants us to be true to who He created us to be. Not to mention, it’s a lot more fun!

Brooke Barnett is the Editor of MetroFamily Magazine. Have an awesome mom that you would like to see featured in our column? Email realmoms@metrofamilymagazine.com.

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

When is My Child the Right Age to...? There are platitudes a plenty about parenting. It’s the hardest job you’ll ever love. Blink and you’ll miss it. But when you need real advice to help you out when your kids reach those tricky tween and teen years, where do you turn? Especially when it seems like every day brings a new challenging situation that threatens to suck the fun right out of this stage.

We turned to local experts for their professional opinions, and also informally polled local parents of teenagers through social media for their input on the lessons learned first-hand. Here is their input on some questions that keep parents pondering, scratching our chins and furrowing our brows, wondering:

Dr. Raquel Strange of Sight To See Vision Associates in Edmond recommends contacts for kids ages eight and up, especially the single-use disposable variety. Soft lenses are also a good choice for children active in sports. Good grooming and a good sense of responsibility are key skills needed for contact lens readiness.

When is my child the right age:

...for a cell phone?

...to get contacts? AGE 13 The parents we polled agree that kids should have at least a few years of experience with wearing and caring for glasses before thinking about the responsibility of contact lenses.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | September 2013

AGE 10 Most of the parents we polled feel that once children reach the age where activities may take them away from the home during offschool hours, they should have a cell phone available to them. Some parents maintain a “family” phone, available for children to take along to activities if needed.

Devonne Carter, LCSW, agrees with the recommendation for kids to have a phone when he is at the age when he will be away from home and may need rides not on your regular schedule. “I would caution against a smart phone,” advises Carter, “Just stick to a phone with basic options.”

...to talk about the “big” issues, such as sex, drugs and suicide? ONGOING Parents of teens know that they need to be prepared with information, because kids will have questions. When kids are young, start with age-appropriate basics. “Get into age-appropriate specifics and have lots of conversations, increasing in detail, until they move out of the house,” advises Melisa W., mother of two teen boys. “Speak to your kids about sex before age eight to protect kids from predators, get into more specifics as kids get older,” agrees Dr. Lisa Marotta, a psychologist in private practice. “Alcohol and drug use should be addressed by the time kids reach upper elementary [about age 10 or 11], and discuss suicide before high school. Remember that not talking about it won’t protect your child from it.”

...to babysit? AGE 11+ The parents we surveyed understand what a big responsibility it is to care for someone else’s child, and are more inclined to have kids wait until high school to start babysitting for children outside of the home. However, when it comes to siblings, 12 is the age they recommend—providing the child shows signs of readiness and maturity. The American Red Cross recommends age 11 to begin babysitting training classes, offered online (four hours total training, $25) or in the classroom (seven hours total training, $85) for kids to learn babysitting basics including handling emergency situations, starting a babysitting business and caring for children of various ages. Of course, the maturity and readiness of the individual child should be taken into consideration first.

...to stay home alone? AGE 10 Once kids reach double-digit age, the parents we asked agree it’s a good time to introduce more responsibility and allow time at home alone, for an hour or so at a time. Dr. Marotta agrees. “Age 10 is a good time to begin brief periods at home alone,

adding time based on good behavior and correction of missteps,” she advises. “I would recommend reviewing safety issues and boundaries each time.”

...to sign up for social media? AGE 13 Even if you hear the argument about how everyone at school is doing it and if your child isn’t allowed to be on the new, hot social media network they’ll be a social pariah, the parents we asked agree—you should always follow the minimum age guidelines. Unless, of course, grades, behavior or maturity level indicate that you should wait. But it’s never a good idea to introduce social networks early. “Follow the guidelines of the software or you are really teaching your child to disrespect authority,” states Carter. “You should also have access to their passwords and monitor their accounts, and remind your kids that the friends they make online should be their friends in real life.”

...to go on a date? AGE 14+ The parents we polled were a little divided on this question, with parents of boys agreeing that 14 is a good age for dating and parents of girls agree that 16 is a good age for dating. However, parents of girls indicated that group dates would be okay as young as 14. “Most often, about age 16 is when kids are responsible enough to engage in a dating relationship,” advises Donnie VanCuren, licensed marriage and family therapist. Any younger than that and a child’s maturity level may not be able to handle the situation, VanCuren advises.

...to open a checking account? AGE 16 Our parent responders agree that it’s a good idea to teach children money concepts at a young age–such as the three envelope method (to save, to spend, to give) with allowance– but hold off on a checking account until kids get a job that provides an actual paycheck. Jennifer Lown of Oklahoma Employees Credit Union agrees that children are generally ready to learn about money management when they start earning their own. “Your child’s maturity level is a big factor,” advises Lown, who also recommends linking your child’s account to yours to better monitor activity and also to check with your financial institution for age requirements.

...to get braces? AGE 11 The parents we polled feel it’s best to talk to your dentist and ensure that children should be able to properly care for their teeth before considering braces. And if braces might be needed, proper oral care should be stressed or there may be a delay in treatment. According to Dr. Adam Stepnieweski, DDS of VIP Dental in Yukon, “Kids get braces at about age 11, on average. It’s best to check first with your regular dentist for guidance— to ensure that permanent teeth are all in or close to it and that there are no signs of decay.”

...to drive alone? AGE 16+ Regardless of the law, parents agree that kids will have to prove their readiness to be responsible before earning this privilege. Under the Oklahoma graduated driver license, 16 is the minimum age for driving alone. “Before allowing your child to drive alone, parents should ensure that kids have a firm grasp of the rules of the road, have logged ample time driving (about 50 hours or more) can handle emergency situations, understand safety rules and safe behavior and have signed a parent-teen driving agreement that clearly spells out your expectations,” explains Chuck Mai of the American Automobile Association. According to the Oklahoma graduated driver license, teen drivers before the age of 18 may qualify for an unrestricted drivers license (allowing for an unrestricted number of passengers) after six months of driving experience if they have completed driver education. Without driver education, the teen needs one year of experience while holding an intermediate license while not obtaining any traffic violations. Full details can be found at www.dps.state.ok.us/dls/gdl.htm. No matter what stage of your child’s maturity you face, parenting always has challenges. Hopefully, with a little luck, some helpful advice and a lot of communication, your child’s tween and teen years will be both challenging and fun for all.

Mari Farthing is an Oklahoma City based freelance writer whose children are just entering the tween years. Learn more at www. marifarthing.com.

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

Wicked SEPTEMBER

4TH-22ND

Broadway’s biggest blockbuster returns to Oklahoma City from September 4–22. Telling the story of how two girls in the land of Oz meet and grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good, the show has been hailed by USA Today as “the most completely satisfying new musical in a long time.” Wicked is recommended for audiences ages eight and up, and children under the age of four will not be admitted. Performances will be held at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N. Walker) on Tuesday– Thursday at 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm and Sunday, 2pm & 7:30pm. Tickets prices start at $35 and are available by calling 800-869-1451 or by visiting the Civic Center Music Hall Box Office. For more information, visit www. celebrityattractions.com. Image courtesy of Celebrity Attractions.

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER ND TH

28TH

2 -6

28TH Oklahoma Regatta Festival The 2013 Oklahoma Regatta Festival will be held October 2–6 in the Boathouse District in downtown Oklahoma City. The five-day celebration of rowing, kayaking, dragon boating and family fun includes the 2013 OKC Canoe Marathon Invitational, Head of Oklahoma racing and the OG&E Night Sprints, held on the river after sunset. In addition, the event includes a family festival featuring live music, local entertainment, a children’s area, local food trucks and more. Festival hours are Thursday, October 3, 6–10pm; Friday, October 4, 6–10pm and Saturday, October 5, 10am–10pm. For more information, call 405-552-4040 or visit www.oklahomariverevents.org. Photo courtesy of the OKC Boathouse Fondation.

CROP Walk to Stop Hunger Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest The Cleveland County CROP Walk to Stop Hunger will host a Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest for children and families on Saturday, September 28 outside the Performing Arts Studio at Norman’s Santa Fe Depot (200 S. Jones). The contest theme is “Helping the Hungry—Making a Difference.” Children will be grouped by age, with a separate category for family entries. Registration begins at 9am and the contest is held from 9:30–11:30am. Chalk and refreshments will be provided and the entry fee is a donation of peanut butter or tuna to benefit food panties in Cleveland County. In the event of rain, the contest will be moved indoors. In addition, particpants can enjoy African drumming and storytelling by local musician Jahruba Lambeth. For more information, visit www.clevelandcountycropwalk.org.

Plaza District Festival The annual Plaza District Festival will be held Saturday, September 28 from noon–10pm, celebrating the continued renewal taking place in the district. Once affected by urban decay, the Plaza District now enjoys an atmosphere of diversity and creativity. Located in the 1700 block of NW 16th Street, the Festival will include more than 40 visual artists, live music and performances, kids’ art activities, local food vendors and more. Kids’ activities are open until 6pm. Free parking is available in surrounding neigborhoods or $5 parking is available at NW 16th and Indiana. For more information, visit www.plazadistrictfestival.com. Photo courtesy of the Plaza District Association

Photo courtesy of the Cleveland County CROP Walk

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

Daily Events September 1 • Sunday

September 4–December 18 September 7 • Saturday

FREE Plaza Sunday in the Plaza District on NW 16th Street features activities including sidewalk chalk, crafts, art demonstrations, food trucks, live music, shopping & more. Held the first Sunday of each month. See website for schedule. www.plazadistrict.org.

FREE Parenting Skills Class at Lutheran Church of Our Savior (6501 NW 23, Bethany) covers topics such as positive discipline, logical & natural consequences, the importance of routines, stages of child development & more. Limited seating. Childcare provided. Wednesdays, 6:30-7:20pm. 495-1605, www. oursaviorokc.org.

FREE Kids Workshops “Football Ring Toss Game” at Home Depot Stores features hands-on workshops for children ages 5-12 on the first Saturday of each month. All kids receive a free apron, commemorative pin & certificate. 9am-noon. www.homedepot.com.

OKC Redhawks vs. Memphis Redbirds at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 S Mickey Mantle). 6:05pm. 218-1000, www.okcredhawks.com. Other home games this month: 9/2.

September 5 • Thursday

FREE Wiggle Out Loud at Bicentennial Park (500 Couch) features live music, health & fitness related activities, vendors & more. Performers include The Verve Pipe, Spaghetti Eddie & the Sugar Free All Stars. 11am-7pm. www.wiggleoutloud.com/2013site.

Scrabble Showdown at the Castle Falls Event Center (820 N MacArthur) benefits the OKC Metro Literacy Coalition. Preregister. $50 entry/team, Spectator tickets available for donation at the door. 6pm. 8302790, www.okcliteracycoalition.org.

September 2 • Monday

September 5–7

FREE Septemberfest “Hats Off to History” at the Oklahoma History Center features live music, high school bands, hands-on activities, demonstrations & museum admission. 10am-4pm. www.okhistory.org.

FREE 106th Annual Cleveland County Fair at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds (615 E Robinson, Norman) features livestock shows, carnival rides, tractor pulls, celebrity cow-milking contest, kiddie pedal pulls & petting zoo. www.clevelandcountyfair.org.

FREE Pinkalicious Party at the Southern Oaks Library (6900 S Walker) features crafts, food & games inspired by Victoria & Elizabeth Kahn’s book, Pinkalicious. Preregister. 2:30-3:30pm. 631-4468, www.metrolibrary.org.

September 6 • Friday

FREE Human Activities Impact the Natural World: Plan Ahead & Prepare at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial) explores the many ways human activities have an impact on the natural world. 3pm. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/ martin_park. Also held: 9/14 Leave What You Find, 9/21 Respect Wildlife, 9/28 Be Considerate of Other Visitors.

FREE Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua, Norman) on the first Monday of each month. 10am5pm. 325-4712, www.snomnh.ou.edu. Scout Day at the Oklahoma Aquarium (300 Aquarium, Jenks) offers discounted admission to members of youth organizations in uniform or carrying a membership card. $7/student ages 3+, $10/adult. Special activities offered 10am-noon. 918-296-FISH, www.okaquarium.org. Kones for the Korral at Chatenay Square (10600 S Penn) is an all-you-can-eat ice cream festival raising funds to build a cost-free home for children with cancer. Includes live entertainment & a children’s area. $8 adults, $3 children 3-12. 11am-7pm. 217-8629, www.tobykeithfoundation.org.

Through September 2 FREE Arts Festival Oklahoma at Oklahoma City Community College highlights a wide variety of fine art, crafts, children’s activities, culinary specialties & live entertainment. $5 parking. 682-7576, www.occc. edu/afo.

September 3 • Tuesday FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square Mall’s Lego Store. Children 6-14 can build a new model on the first Tuesday of every month. Quantities limited. 5pm. 840-9993, www.stores.lego.com. FREE Family Night Out at Quail Springs Mall (2501 W Memorial) features crafts, treats, balloons, face painting & more. 6-8pm. www.facebook.com/ quailspringsmall. Gluten-Free Cooking at Francis Tuttle (12777 N Rockwell) focuses on kid-friendly, family-oriented cooking. Preregister. 6:30-9:30pm. http://francistuttle. edu.

FREE Wise Guys Concert at the Myriad Gardens Great Lawn features live music & food trucks. $5 suggested donation/person to benefit the Gardens. 8-10pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org.

September 6–7 FREE 37th Annual Western Days in Mustang includes a chili cook-off, carnival, open rodeo, parade, car show, races, live entertainment & more. Most events held at Mustang Community Center (1201 N Mustang, Mustang). See website for schedule of events. 376-2758, www.mustangchamber.com. Pass It On Kids Consignment Sale at Church of the Harvest (16000 N Western, Edmond). Some items half price on Saturday. Friday, 8am-6pm; Saturday, 8am-2pm. 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.

September 6–8 FREE Art in the City: A Cultural Connection at Memorial Park (1150 NW 36) celebrates & showcases the diversity & creativity of Oklahomans. Features activities for the entire family including local & regional musicians, dance performances, health initiatives, oral history collection, book fair, children’s crafts & public art projects. Friday, 5-10pm; Saturday, 10am-10pm; Sunday, 10am-9pm. 213-8077.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | September 2013

Special Activity Day for Allan Houser & His Students exhibit at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63) features performances by Riverside Indian School Apache Club of Anadarko, curator-led tours & a children’s activity. FREE with museum admission. 10am-3pm. 478-2250, www. nationalcowboymuseum.org.

OU Football vs. West Virginia at the Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. 6pm. www.soonersports. com. Other home games this month: 9/14. FREE Astronomy Night at the Myriad Gardens features the OKC Astronomy Club reading stories to children & sharing tips on finding the right telescope. Boy Scouts can earn their astronomy merit badge. 8-10pm. www.myriadgardens.org.

Through September 7 Oktoberfest at Choctaw Creek Park features homemade German food, beer & dance groups, crafts & activities for children. See website for details. Saturday-Monday, noon-midnight; Tuesday-Friday, 5pm-midnight. 390-8647, www.oldgermany.com. Invisible Eve at the Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum (1400 Classen) features photography by Yousef Khanfar depicting women in prison convicted of nonviolent crimes. 523-3231, www.oklahomaheritage.com.

September 7–8 Weekend Wavemakers: Masters of Camouflage at the Oklahoma Aquarium (300 Aquarium, Jenks) offers special activities on a range of topics. Saturday,

11am-1pm; Sunday, 1-3pm. 918-296-FISH, www. okaquarium.org. Also held: 9/14-15 (Shell Shock), 9/28-29 (Extreme Amazon)

package (hotel not included). www.projectmom.com. Print a discount coupon at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/coupons.

September 8 • Sunday

September 14 • Saturday

FREE Family Day at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch) features art-making activities, family tours & live performances by the Tulsa Opera. Noon-5pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com.

FREE Exploring Nature: Poison Ivy & Other Friends at Little River Park in Moore features a nature hike teaching about poison ivy & other wild plants. 9-10am. www.cityofmoore.com.

FREE Rock the Boat Festival on the Bricktown Canal features live music on the Bricktown Water Taxis, shopping opportunities, food, drinks, snow cones, pet adoptions & FREE activities including an SNL photo booth, ping pong, face painting, caricatures, balloon animals, magic shows & more. Noon-6pm. www. downtownokc.com.

FREE Lil’ Kickers Open House at SoccerCity OKC (4520 Old Farm) allows children ages 18 months to 9 years to sample Lil’ Kickers classes & meet the coaches. Includes inflatables, face painting, Lil’ Kickers mascot & more. 10am-noon. 748-3888, www.soccercityokcity.com.

FREE Summer Breeze Concert Series: Byron Berline Band at Lions Park in Norman. See website for schedule. 7:30pm. 307-9320, www.pasnorman.org.

September 9 • Monday Witches Night Off features cast members from Wicked in a special performance in the Civic Center Music Hall’s Freede Little Theatre. Net proceeds benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity & City Rep. $35+, tax deductible. 7:30pm. 297-2264, www.myticketoffice.com.

September 12–17 Disney on Ice presents Rockin’ Ever After at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds Jim Norick Arena. $15+. Thursday-Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 11:30am, 3:30pm & 7:30pm; Sunday, 1:30pm & 7:30pm; Monday, 10:30am & 7:30pm; Tuesday, 7:30pm. www. okstatefair.com.

September 12–22 Oklahoma State Fair at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds features a large carnival, exhibit buildings, shopping opportunities, concerts, arts, livestock competitions & more. 948-6704, www.okstatefair.com.

September 13 • Friday FREE ZooFriends Family Fun Night at the OKC Zoo (2000 Remington) features after-hours fun for ZooFriends Members including free admission to Stingray Bay, the Sea Lion Show and various rides . Memberships may be purchased at the event for a $5 discount. 5-8pm, 425-0618, www.zoofriends.org. FREE Norman’s 2nd Friday Circuit of Art is a monthly celebration of the arts connecting the downtown arts district with galleries, performance halls & Campus Corner. 6-10pm. 360-1162, www.2ndfridaynorman.com. 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.

September 13–14 Project MOM at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel (1 Park Ave) features speakers, breakout sessions, vendors & more for moms. $49 day pass, $79 weekend getaway

Saturdays-R4-Kids: Chicken ‘n Waffles at Francis Tuttle (12777 N Rockwell) focuses on kid-friendly, family-friendly cooking for kids & parents. Preregister. 10am-1:30pm. http://francistuttle.edu. FREE Kids’ Meditation Class at Buddha Mind Monastery (5916 S Anderson) helps kids discover their inner wisdom through meditation, Dharma talks, Chan stories & fun activities. 10:30am-noon. 869-0501, www. ctbuddhamind.org/classes.php. Also held: 9/28. FREE Homemade Toys Workshop at the Bethany Library (3510 N Mueller, Bethany) allows ages 6-11 with an adult to try their hand at making traditional toys from commonplace, inexpensive materials. Preregister. 2-3pm. 789-8363, www.metrolibrary.org. FREE Alegria Real “All Abilities Rock” at Sonder Music (225 E Gray, Norman) features a sensoryfriendly concert for children of all abilities & their families. 3pm. 474-9734, www.sondermusic.com. OSU Football vs. Lamar at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater. 6:30pm. www.okstate.com.

September 14–October 26 Fairy Tales in Miniature: Russian Lacquer Boxes from the Lucy Maxym Collection at the MabeeGerrer Museum of Art (1900 W Mac Arthur, Shawnee) features a collection of hand-made boxes that portray Russian fairy tales. 878-5300, www.mgmoa.org.

September 15 • Sunday

The Wiggles “Taking Off!” World Tour at the Rose State Performing Arts Theater (6420 SE 15, Midwest City). $14+. 6:30pm. 297-2264, www. okcciviccenter.com. Print a discount coupon at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/coupons.

September 17 • Tuesday Tiny Tuesdays: Renaissance Crowns at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch) features a come-and-go, open-ended art-making activity geared towards ages 2-5 with parent or caregiver. FREE with Museum admission. 10am-noon. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com.

September 17–October 22 FREE National Alliance on Mental Illness Basics Class at Integris Baptist Medical Center (3300 NW Expwy) for parents/caregivers of children that exhibit emotional or behavioral disturbances. Preregister. Tuesdays, 6-8:30pm. 408-0886, www.namioklahoma.org.

September 18 • Wednesday Homeschool Day at the Harn Homestead Museum (1721 N Lincoln) features hands-on learning activities for ages 5-12 in an 1897 schoolhouse, a 1909 farmhouse & 1904 dairy barn. Bring a sack lunch. Preregister. $8/student, up to 2 parents FREE with student. 9:40am-1:30pm. 235-4058, www. harnhomestead.com.

September 19 • Thursday Cosi fan tutte presented by Rose State Live! at the Rose State Performing Arts Theatre (6420 SE 15, Midwest City) is Mozart’s famous opera performed by OCU faculty. $22, 7:30pm. 297-2264, www.rose.edu/rslive. Full Moon Bike Ride at the Myriad Gardens features a full moon route through downtown OKC, the river trail & other routes. Rides last approximately one hour. Helmets & lights required. $5 suggested donation. 9-10pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org.

September 19–29

Find information about local pumpkin patches and family-friendly fall events in our 2013 Fall Fun Guide! www.metrofamilymagazine. com/fall-fun.

September 16 • Monday

Outdoor Painting Session at the Myriad Gardens Sheridan Lawn. Each guest will receive a 10X10 canvas, paints, brush, apron, easel & guidance from a professional. All ages welcome. Preregister. $15. 2-4pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org.

And Then They Came for Me: Remembering the World of Anne Frank presented by the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre (2501 N Blackwelder) features a powerful, multi-media Holocaust drama that tells the story of the childhood friends of Anne Frank. For grades 5+. $12 adults, $9 ages 2-12. Thursday, 11am; Friday, 11am & 8pm; Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. 951-0011, www.oklahomachildrenstheatre.org.

September 19–January 4 To Pioneer at the Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum (1400 Classen) features mixed media paintings & drawings by Denise Duong. 523-3231, www.oklahomaheritage.com. Opening Reception: 9/18 5-7pm. $5/person, Preregister.

September 20 • Friday FREE International Day of Peace at OCU’s Bishop Angie Smith Chapel features a drum circle, music, giant pinwheel display, dancing & more. 4-6pm. www. pinwheelsforpeaceokc.org.

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

FREE Premiere on Film Row in downtown OKC (W Sheridan between Dewey & Shartel) is a family & petfriendly festival held the third Friday of each month featuring film screenings, live music, art exhibitions & gourmet food trucks. 6-9pm. www.facebook.com/ FilmRowPremiere.

ht g i N e t Da Ideas

September 20–21 Xtreme Bulls Tour & Concerts at Jim Norick Arena at the State Fairgrounds features 90 minutes of bull riding & concerts by Eli Young Band on Friday & Clay Walker on Saturday. $18+. 7:30pm. www.okstatefair.com.

September 20–28 Original Children’s Consignment Sale in Quail Plaza (10920 N May). 10am-6pm (closed Sunday). www.occsale.com.

September 4–22 Wicked presented by Celebrity Attractions at the Civic Center Music Hall. Recommended for ages 8+. $35+. Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm; Sunday, 2pm & 7:30pm. www.celebrityattractions.com.

September 6 • Friday Savion Glover in “Solo iN TiMe” at UCO Mitchell Hall Theater features the Tony Awardwinning choreographer & dancer paying tribute to the history & art of tap. 7:30pm. 974-3375, www.uco.edu/cfad/events.

September 12–28 King Lear presented by Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park at the Myriad Gardens Water Stage. $15 adults, $10 students/seniors/military. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm. 403-1750, www. oklahomashakespeare.com.

September 27 • Friday ZooBrew at the OKC Zoo features beer & food tasting to benefit the OKC Zoo. Pre-Brew tickets include special brews & appetizers. Ages 21+. $30 members, $35 nonmembers, $10 designated drivers, $60 for Pre-Brew (includes admission to ZooBrew). Pre-Brew, 5:30-6:30pm; ZooBrew, 6:30-9:30pm. 425-0612, www. zoofriends.org/zoobrew-v. H&8th Night Market at Hudson & 8th in Midtown OKC features food trucks & live music every last Friday of the month through September. 7-11pm. www.h8thokc.com. Cruise & Carriage on the Oklahoma River departs from Regatta Park Landing & features a 90-minute cruise followed by a 40-minute horse-drawn carriage ride under the stars. Includes cash bar, music & appetizers. Ages 21+. Preregister. $39/person. 7:30pm. 702-7755, www.okrivercruises.com.

September 21 • Saturday

KickingBird Golf Family Fun Night (1600 E Danforth, Edmond) features 9 holes with the family including special junior tees, a FREE putting course, $2 range tokens & food & beverage discounts. Call in advance for a tee time. $7 green fees, $7 carts. 5pm. 341-5350, www.edmondok.com. FREE Fairy Ball on Paseo in the Paseo Arts District grassy lawn (NW 29 & Lee) encourages children to expand their imaginations as they work alongside professional dancers, storytellers, musicians & visual artists to create a fairy wonderland. Costumes encouraged. 7-9pm. 525-2688, www.thepaseo.com.

September 21–October 31 WINGS: A Special Needs Community Fall Festival Fundraiser at WINGS (13700 N Eastern, Edmond) features pumpkins, weekend hay rides, hay bale maze, animals & fall decor. Monday-Saturday, 10am-7pm; Sunday, 1-6pm. 242-4646, www.wingsok.org.

FREE Krazy Kids Dog Show at Shannon Miller Park in Edmond allows ages 4-12 to enter their dogs in two categories for a chance to win a trophy. 8:30am. 3594630, www.edmondok.com/parks/rec.

September 22 • Sunday

FREE OKC Reads at the Myriad Gardens Children’s Garden features volunteers talking to kids about their professions & how they use reading as adults. 9am3pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org.

Hot Mamas 5K & Baby Parade at Mitch Park in Edmond for female runners. $30+/5K, $20+/for Baby Parade; $40+/both. Baby parade, 1pm; 5K, 2pm. www.hotmamasrun.com.

Michaelmas Country Fair at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church (1601 W Imhoff, Norman) benefits community outreach & parish repairs & features horse back riding, jail, raffle, flea market, vendors, bake sale, carnival games & more. 9am-3pm. 321-8951, www. stmichaelsnorman.org.

September 24 • Tuesday

FREE Boys Ranch Town Edmond Rodeo (5100 SE 33, Edmond) allows Boys Town Ranch residents to show off horsemanship skills. Donations accepted. 10am-1pm. 341-3606, www.obhc.org. FREE 4th Annual Pet Health Fair at the Pet Medical Center of Edmond (1001 W 15, Edmond) features rescue organizations, Edmond Police K-9 demonstrations, education seminars, food, fun for kids & silent auction to benefit Paws for Life. 10am2pm. 314-8101, www.pmcofedmond.com. Cabinets of Curiosity at the Museum of Osteology (10301 S Sunnylane) allows adults to create a still life, make a diorama, create a painting or sketch their favorite specimen. Preregister. $30/adult. 11am-1pm. 814-0006, www.museumofosteology.org. The Art of Science at the Museum of Osteology (10301 S Sunnylane) encourages students in grades 3+ to identify a mystery skull & discover how the animal fits into their natural environment. Each participant creates a diorama to take home. Preregister. $25/child. 2-4pm. 814-0006, www.museumofosteology.org. FREE Hispanic Heritage Month: Ballet Flamenco Espanol Folklorico at the Capitol Hill Library (334 SW 26) features dance with wooden shoes, castanets & swords, plus historical explanations of the dance & costuming. 2-3pm. 634-6308, www.metrolibrary.org. FREE Moore Big Wheel Nationals Kids Trike Race at the Moore Community Center allows ages 4-8 to race against other youth for prizes &

the championship trophy. Preregister. 4pm. www. cityofmoore.com/moore-big-wheel-nationals.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | September 2013

FREE Doula, VBAC, AROM Oh My! at Green Bambino (5120 N Shartel) teaches about doulas, VBACs, midwife care, local breastfeeding sources & more. Preregister. 6:30-7:30pm. 848-2330, www.greenbambino.com. Kyle Dillingham & Horseshoe Road at OCCC (7777 S May). $10-$20. 7pm. 682-7579, www.occc.edu/cas.

September 25 • Wednesday FREE Admission to the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory at the Myriad Gardens in celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Gardens. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org.

September 26–28 Adorable Affordables Children’s Consignment Sale at the Payne County Expo Center (Hwy 51 & Fairgrounds, Stillwater). Thursday-Friday, 9am-7pm; Saturday, 8am-2pm (some items half price). www. adorableaffordable.net.

September 27 • Friday NHL Preseason Game: Dallas Stars vs. Edmonton Oilers at the Cox Convention Center. $24+. 7pm. 232GOAL, www.okcbarons.com.

September 27–29 Day Out with Thomas at the Oklahoma Railway Museum invites all Thomas the Tank Engine Fans to spend the day with their favorite No. 1 engine & enjoy music, art, fun activities & train rides. Advanced ticket purchase recommended for train rides. 424-8222, www. oklahomarailwaymuseum.org. Also held 10/4-6.

September 27–October 11 Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse presented by the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre (2501 N. Blackwelder) is the story of an exuberant young mouse facing familiar issues at home & in school, based on the books by Kevin Henkes. $10 adults, $7 ages 2-12. Wednesday & Friday, 11am; Saturday & Sunday, 2pm. 951-0011, www.oklahomachildrenstheatre.org.

September 28 • Saturday Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day Live! at participating museums offers FREE admission for 2 people with ticket available online. One ticket per household, one museum per ticket. See website for details. www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday. Cleveland County CROP Walk to STOP Hunger Sidewalk Art Contest at the Performing Arts Studio at the Santa Fe Depot (200 S Jones, Norman) invites children and families to create sidewalk chalk art. Entry fee is peanut butter or tuna to benefit Cleveland county food panties. 9-11:30am. www. cleavelandcountycropwalk.org. FREE 25th Annual Global Oklahoma Festival of Cultures at Rose State College Campus Mall (6420 SE 15, Midwest City) celebrates the Republic of Korea through exhibits, entertainment, music, children’s activities & international cuisine. 10am-4pm. 7360313, www.rose.edu/globaloklahoma. FREE 3rd Annual Fall Art Crawl in downtown Edmond features art vendors, live music, wineries & more. 10am-5pm. 249-9391, www. downtownedmondok.com. FREE Young Readers Book Club Meeting at the Myriad Gardens Children’s Garden allows young readers to enjoy The Curious Garden by Peter Brown in the children’s garden. 11am-noon. 445-7080, www. myriadgardens.org. FREE Plaza District Festival in the 16th Street Plaza District (1700 block of NW 16) features visual artists, live music, art activities, local food vendors & more. Noon-10pm (Kids activities close at 6pm). www. plazadistrictfestival.com. Candlelight Tour Reenactment at Historic Fort Reno (7107 W Cheyenne, El Reno) features portrayals of individuals from the fort’s past in scenes of different time period. $8 adults, $6 seniors, $5 ages 5-12. 7pm. 262-3987, www.fortreno.org.

September 28–October 11 2013 INTEGRIS Women’s Health Forum “Recipes for a Healthy You” features seminars & workshops about various topics concerning women’s health as well as keynote speaker Jamie Lee Curtis on 9/29 at 5pm. See website for schedule. Preregister. 951-2277, www.integrisOK.com/whf.

September 29 • Sunday FREE Norman Groovefest at Andrews Park in Norman promotes community awareness through art, music & human rights information. Includes live music, tie-dye fundraiser & vendors. 514-0781, www. groovefest.org.

FREE An Evening with Jamie Lee Curtis “Live Wisely, Love Well” presented by INTEGRIS Women’s Health Forum at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker) presents her unique view of how people make a difference in the world. Free ticket required. 5pm. 951-2277, www.integrisok.com.

September 30–October 5 FREE Costume Swap at the OKC Zoo (2000 Remington) accepts new or gently used child-sized Halloween costumes from 9/30-10/4 in exchange for a ticket to come back & shop the swap on October 5th. Donations can also be made without shopping. 4243344, www.okczoo.com.

October 1 • Tuesday FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square Mall’s Lego Store. Children 6-14 can build a new model on the first Tuesday of every month. Quantities limited. 5pm. 840-9993, www.stores.lego.com. FREE Family Night Out at Quail Springs Mall (2501 W Memorial) features crafts, balloons, face painting & more. 6-8pm. www.facebook.com/quailspringsmall. Gluten-Free Cooking at Francis Tuttle (12777 N Rockwell) focuses on kid-friendly, family-oriented cooking. Preregister. 6:30-9:30pm. petra@happilives. com, http://francistuttle.edu.

October 1–5 Kids Consignment Sale in Yukon Shopping Hills (Cornwell & Vandament). Many items half price on Saturday. Tuesday-Friday, 8am-7pm; Saturday, 8am4pm. www.kidsconsignmentsale.com.

Academy Kids Zone for ages 5-14. Noon-6:30pm. 3257231, http://airport.ou.edu. FREE EvFest “Bands, Bites & Brews” at Festival Marketplace in Edmond benefits Edmond Mobile Meals & features entertainment, food vendors & a variety of brews. 6-10pm. 341-3111, www. edmondmobilemeals.org. OKC Barons vs. Charlotte Checkers at the Cox Convention Center. $16+. 7pm. 232-4625, www. okcbarons.com. Also held: 10/5, 15, 18, 19.

October 5 • Saturday Baby Bazaar at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang, Mustang) allows parents to buy & sell new & used clothing, toys & other children’s items. $10/ booth to sell items. 8am-noon. 376-3411, www. cityofmustang.org. Inaugural Project Life 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run at Lake Hefner East Wharf side benefits the OKC Fire Department program providing FREE smoke alarms to citizens in need. $25 in advance, $30 race day. 8:30am. www.signmeup.com/92891. Sensory Sensitive Movie: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 at Warren Theatres (1000 S Telephone, Moore) offers showings of a new release, familyfriendly movie for children with autism &/or sensory disorders with modifications that include lower volume, no previews or ads, kid-friendly talking, wiggling, standing & dancing okay. $7. 11am. 7359676, www.warrentheatres.com. FREE Oklahoma Czech Festival in Yukon features a carnival, parade, craft booths & food. 206-8142, www. cityofyukonok.gov.

October 2–6

October 6 • Sunday

2013 Oklahoma Regatta Festival at the Oklahoma River in downtown Oklahoma City includes the OCU Head of the Oklahoma, VIP Party, OG&E Night springs & a family festival featuring live music, art, a children’s area, food & racing. 552-4040, www. oklahomariverevents.org.

Cleveland County CROP Walk to STOP Hunger is a 3 mile walk beginning and ending at Norman’s Food & Shelter, Inc (104 W Comanche). Proceeds support hunger-fighting charities and disaster relief. Pre-walk entertainment include live music and face painting. 1:30pm. www.clevelandcountycropwalk.org.

October 3 • Thursday

Boo Boo Dash 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run at the Chesapeake Boathouse (725 S Lincoln) benefits patient programs at OU CHildren’s Hospital. $25. 1pm. www.signmeup.com/94899.

Fit Family Meals at Francis Tuttle (12777 N Rockwell) focuses on kid-friendly, family-friendly cooking. Preregister. 6:30-9:30pm. http://francistuttle.edu.

The Moth Mainstage at the Rose State Performing Arts Theatre (6420 SE 15, Midwest City) features storytellers from The Moth Radio Hour & The Moth Podcast. $25+, 7:30pm. 297-2264, www.rose.edu/rslive.

Don’t miss our 2013 Fall Fun Guide!

October 3–5 Oklahoma International Bluegrass Festival in Guthrie features international & national bluegrass bands, children’s activities & workshops. 282-4446, www.oibf.com.

October 4 • Friday

Find it online at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/ fall-fun.

FREE 7th Annual OU Westheimer Airport Open House & Family Festival at OU Westeheimer Airport (1700 Lexington, Norman) features general aviation aircraft, the War Birds OU halftime flyover aircraft, fire trucks & law enforcement vehicles & the Sooner Flight

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

Ongoing Events Through September 2 Blue Star Museums program offers FREE admission at participating museums to all active duty military personnel & families. www.nea.gov/national/ bluestarmuseums/index2013.php.

Through September 8 Beautiful Beasts: The Unseen Life of Oklahoma Spiders & Insects at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History presents a series of largescale color photographs taken by Thomas Shahan. 325-4712, www.snomnh.ou.edu.

Weekly Events

FREE Discovery Room programs at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua, Norman). See website for details. 3254712, www.snomnh.ou.edu.

FREE Art Moves weekdays (Monday-Friday) in downtown OKC (various locations). Performances, demonstrations, short films & discussions. Noon1pm. 270-4892, www.artscouncilokc.com/art-moves. FREE Sooner Mall Outreach Storytime is an interactive story time offered by the Norman Public Library in Norman’s Sooner Mall for ages 9 & under. Tuesdays, 10am. 701-2600, www.pls.lib.ok.us.

Bob Kuhn: Drawing on Instinct at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua, Norman) displays the relationship between predator & prey. 325-4712, www.snomnh.ou.edu.

FREE Art Adventures at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) includes hands-on art fun for children ages 3-5 with adult. Tuesdays, 10:30am. 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

Through September 15

FREE Tuesday Noon Concerts at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) features 30-minute concerts performed by OU music students & faculty. See website for schedule of performers. Tuesdays beginning 9/10, noon. 325-4938, www.ou.edu/fjjma

FREE Exhibition: Hopituy Kachinas from the Permanent Collections at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) features six types of Hopi kachina figures as depicted in more than 175 objects. 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

Through November 17 Of Heaven & Earth: 500 Years of Italian Painting from Glasgow Museums at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch) features works by some of the greatest names in European art including Giovanni Bellini, Sandro Botticelli, Francesco Guardi & more. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com.

Through December 31 Reigns Supreme: The Little Black Dress at the Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi). 522-0765, www.oklahomahistorycenter.org.

Through March 1, 2014 Untamed at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52) features works by Jennifer Cocoma Hustis exploring the mustang’s plight & behavior through art. 6026664, www.sciencemuseumok.org.

FREE Night Time Stories at the Myriad Gardens Children’s Garden. Wednesdays through October, 7:30pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org. Mid Week Market at the Myriad Gardens offers local fruits, vegetables & other goods. Wednesdays , 4-8pm. wwww.myriadgardens.org. Cocktails on the Skyline at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) with full bar, complimentary chips & salsa & live music on the Roof Terrace. See website for weather cancellations. FREE for members, $5 nonmembers. Thursdays, 5-9pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com. FREE Story Time at Cuppies & Joe (727 NW 23) features stories & a treat. Held the 1st & 3rd Saturday of each month. 9am. 528-2122, www.cuppiesandjoe.com. Fitness Classes: Fit-4-All at Edmond Parks & Recreation for kids & parents ages 6+. Preregister.

$10/person. Saturdays through December, 9-9:45am. www.edmondok.com. Reading Rainforest in the Crystal Bridge at the Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno) features storytime, a short hike & craft for ages 3-5. FREE with admission. Saturdays, 10am-noon. 445-7079, www. myriadgardens.org. FREE Crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) features a new craft for ages 3+ each week. Saturdays, 11am-3pm. 858-8778, www. lakeshorelearning.com. FREE Skating Lessons at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36) for all skill levels. Saturdays, noon-12:45pm. 605-2758, www.skategalaxyokc.com. Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features hands-on art activities for all ages. FREE with paid admission. See website for themes/ activities. Saturdays, 1-4pm. 236-3100, www. okcmoa.com. All-Star Bowling for Differently-Abled Individuals at AMF Yukon Lanes (500 E Main). $8/ week includes 3 games & shoes. Saturdays, 1pm. Email dbrakefield@yahoo.com to verify schedule. 354-2516. FREE Green Earth Gang for ages 9-13 works on conservation projects at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial). Saturdays, 2-5pm. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park. Bluegrass Cruise on the Oklahoma River departs from Meridian Landing & features live entertainment from the Xtreme Bluegrass Band at the pre-cruise dock party as well as light appetizers & a cash bar. Ages 21+. Preregister. $29/person. Saturdays in September, 7:30pm. 702-7755, www. okrivercruises.com. FREE Green Earth Rangers at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial) for teens ages 13-18 to assist the park with complex, leadership-driven conservation efforts. Sundays, call for times. 7550676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park.

Through May 11, 2014 Allan Houser & His Students at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63) presents a look at Houser as teacher & mentor. Includes works of Houser from the Museum’s permanent collection along with those by his students & proteges. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org.

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

We want your opinions! NOMINATE your favorite family-friendly, local places to go, businesses and services in the OKC area!

You can determine the Family Favorites in over 80 categories, many of them NEW this year! Nominate your “fave” local businesses TODAY! Nomination deadline is October 15. Best family-friendly restaurant • Best date night restaurant • Best Place for Pizza Night • Best party entertainer/entertainment • Best “away from home” party venue • Best place to explore nature in Oklahoma • Best museum for kids/families • Best live entertainment (theater, music, etc.) • Best local place to take visitors from outside of OKC • Best annual family-friendly festival • Best family-friendly sporting event • Best place to explore the outdoors • Best outdoor fun/amusement venue • Best indoor fun/amusement venue • Best place to have fun with a variety of kids’ ages (toddlers to teens) • Best free or low-cost attraction for family fun • Best day camp • Best sleep-away camp • Best grocery store to stretch your food budget • Best place to buy baby/children’s furniture • Best children-friendly book store • Best toy store • Best maternity shop • Best specialty baby store/boutique • Best children’s clothing store • Best jewelry store • Best consignment/thrift store • Best seasonal consignment sale • Best holiday lights event • Best place to watch 4th of July fireworks • Best Pumpkin Patch • Best business for pampering moms (day spa, massage place, etc.) • Best children’s haircuts • Best child/family photographer • Best fitness center • Best OB/GYN • Best pediatrician/family doctor • Best dentist for children/family • Best orthodontist • Best eye care provider • Best ER or emergency clinic • Best hospital • Best place to have baby • Best child care center • Best tutoring/learning assistance service • Best dance studio • Best gymnastics and/or cheer training facility • Best martial arts studio • Best music instruction • Best art studio/art lessons • Best sports league for kids sports • Best nonprofit that serves children/families & MORE

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

Exploring Oklahoma with Children

Images courtesy of Jennifer Geary and the Tom Mix Museum

Prairie Song: Oklahoma’s Old West Town

n 1983, Kenneth Tate built a cabin on the prairie east of Dewey, intending to use it as a retirement getaway. More than fifteen buildings and thirty years later, he’s still hard at work on Prairie Song, a cluster of buildings arranged as an 1880s prairie village located just over two hours from Oklahoma City.

Though he has no formal training in architecture or construction, Mr. Tate has built each of the buildings himself, with just a handful of helpers needed along the way. When he decides he’d like to build something, he thinks it out in his mind and then gets to work without even sketching his ideas out on paper. Each structure is paid for as it is built and once it is finished, his wife, Marilyn Moore-Tate, furnishes it with antique pieces from the appropriate period.

A Living Museum Prairie Song is something you have to see for yourself to understand. As Mr. Tate told me, some people think it’s just a few cheap buildings slapped together with some old junk inside, but really, Prairie Song is a living museum, each site carefully constructed and then furnished with items related to the building’s theme. The first building we visited was the

hardware store, where we saw just about every type of tool you could imagine—all from the 19th century. In the bank, you can see the 15,000 pound safe and hear the alarm bell the tellers would ring in case of a robbery. You can also visit a doctor’s office, general store, marshal’s office, saloon, post office, church, and schoolhouse—along with several other themed buildings. What makes this experience so wonderful is that Mr. Tate is usually the tour guide and he can tell you what each item is, what it’s used for and the history behind that specific piece. Many of the antiques, such as the bank safe and the jail cell, were acquired from small towns in the area.

Finding Prairie Song To find Prairie Song, take the Turner Turnpike to Tulsa—don’t forget your $4.00 for tolls if you don’t have a PikePass—and then continue onto I-244 E when you exit the Turnpike. Take US-75 North toward Bartlesville (look for exit 6B) and this road will take you through Bartlesville and into Dewey. Turn right onto Durham Road (you’ll see a Dollar General on the northeast corner of the intersection) and continue just over five miles until you see the entrance gate on your right.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | September 2013

Visiting Prairie Song If you want to take your family to visit Prairie Song, call ahead to schedule your guided tour. Admission is $8 per person and tours usually last about two hours. There is a fair amount of walking and there are steps into most buildings, so this trip is best for those who can walk independently or be carried if necessary. The last weekend of September is a fantastic time to visit Prairie Song as part of the annual Western Heritage Weekend. On Sunday, September 29, gates will open at 9:30am and Cowboy Church will begin at 10:00am. After that there will be music, food, tours, rodeo events, and at 1:30pm, a Wild West show. This fun-filled day follows the Tom Mix Festival on Saturday in downtown Dewey (see next page). Even if you can’t visit for the festivities, Prairie Song should be at the top of your list of interesting and educational family trips. There is nothing else like it in Oklahoma!

Jennifer Geary is a homeschooling mom from Broken Arrow, formerly of OKC, who loves to have adventures with her family.

The Tom Mix Museum & Western Heritage Weekend You may know Tom Mix as the star of the earliest cowboy movies ever made, but you may not realize that he was also the town marshal of Dewey, Oklahoma and worked at the famous 101 Ranch near Ponca City. Several decades after his death, the town of Dewey purchased many of Mix’s personal items from his estate, and now the Oklahoma Historical Society helps the city run the Tom Mix Museum, located in downtown Dewey. Inside the museum you’ll find many articles of clothing and costumes, saddles, photographs and other memorabilia. If you don’t know much about Tom Mix, the friendly and knowledgeable museum staff will be happy to help you out. You can also watch a short film about him that includes clips from some of his more than 300 movies. On Saturday, September 28, the annual Tom Mix Festival will be held in downtown Dewey as part of the Western Heritage Weekend. Beginning at 9:00am, there will be music, games, food and entertainment such as an old time medicine show and gun fighters. This year, Tom Mix’s 1937 Cord automobile that he was driving at the time of his death will also be on display. At 3:00pm, there will be a longhorn cattle drive and parade, which includes a preview of Sunday’s Wild West Show entertainers.

Contact Information:

The Great American Medicine Show will provide amazing demonstrations of sharp shooting, illusion, science, chicanery,

psychic forecasting and good oldfashioned flim-flam throughout the day. Children’s games, petting zoo, music, vendors, simulated bank robberies and gun fights, free admission to the Tom Mix Museum, a silent auction and food make the festival a family destination. On Sunday, September 29th the venue will move to Prairie Song, Gates open at 9:30am with cowboy church starting at 10:00am. The Wild West Show starts at 1:30pm and features the spirit of the Dewey Roundup and the 101 Ranch. The show features PRCA specialty act The One Armed Bandit and the Sky High Angels, a mounted precision drill team. Top area cowboys and cowgirls will compete in Wild Horse races, bronc riding, wild cow milking, cow mugging and more. Chariot races, trick riding and roping will roundout the program. Free tours of Prairie Song, merchandise vendors, food vendors and specialty entertainers will be available throughout the day. Located just north of Bartlesville on Highway 75, Dewey is roughly two and a half hours from Oklahoma City. Take the Turner Turnpike to Tulsa and then continue onto I-244 E when you exit the Turnpike. Take US-75 North toward Bartlesville (look for exit 6B) and this road will take you through Bartlesville and into Dewey. Turn left onto Don Tyler Avenue and go two blocks to Delaware Street. The museum is located on the southwest corner of Don Tyler and Delaware.

Prairie Song 402621 W. 1600 Road Dewey, OK 74029 918-534-2662 www.prairiesong.net Adults $8, students $6, children under 6 free. Tours available. Call for details. Tom Mix Museum 721 North Delaware Dewey, OK 74029 918-534-1555 www.tommixmuseum.com Open Thursday-Saturday 1:004:30pm (February); Tuesday-Saturday 10:00am-4:30pm (March – December). Closed during the month of January and major holidays. Suggested donation of $3.00 per adult and $.50 per child.

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

Focus on Education Exploring Extraordinary Extracurricular Activities

s kids get back into the groove of school, many families are also adjusting to new schedules which include practice times and weekend games for extracurricular activities. Whether they choose team sports, dance or scouting, extracurricular activities offer many benefits to children. Studies show that involvement in extracurricular activities raises self-esteem and improves social skills. Some activities offer the obvious benefits of physical fitness and improving teamwork. Others provide students with an outlet for creativity and a means of personal growth. Popular sports such as soccer, football, and track and field are already underway for the fall season. Other kids tend to choose extracurricular activities that are slightly off the beaten path.

Music Fourteen-year-old Kathryn has played piano for six years and upright bass for three years with her middle school orchestra. In addition, she has worked with the choir at both her school and her church. She recently attended the Inspiration Point Fine Arts Colony in Eureka Springs, Arkansas for a weeklong summer camp offering intensive, individualized instruction in vocal, piano, and string performance. As a first-year participant, she was advised to select one of the three areas in which to focus, and she selected piano. “We received intensive private instruction, in both piano solos and ensembles. We also had to practice sightreading, which is one of my least favorite things,” she admits. When asked about her favorite camp activity, Kathryn did not hesitate. “I made so many

new friends from all over!” Indeed, Kathryn admits that some of her performances didn’t go exactly according to plan. “I probably spent a little more of my practice time hanging out with my friends than I should have. My solo night was a little embarrassing, especially since I know that piece backwards and forwards,” she says. Still, when asked if she is considering attending again next year, her face cracks into a wide smile. “Absolutely!” she exclaims. “Camp was the time of my life, in spite of the missteps. I can’t wait to go back!”

Scouting In this country, the phrase “Scouting” generally refers to Boy Scouts and Girls Scouts of America. However, other groups such as Camp Fire (www.campfireusa.org) also should be considered. Put simply, the scouting movement supports young men and women in their physical, mental, and spiritual development. What exactly does that entail? As a former Girls Scout leader, I can tell you that there are many different types of troops. (Mine once had a campout at the Waterford Hotel!) I can also tell you that the “campout” was a reward for nearly doubling our goal in a local blood drive that our troop undertook in honor of a critically ill baby in the OKC metro. Regardless of whether your style is more Troop Beverly Hills or “liveoff-the-land” Survivor-style, the basic idea of scouting–to leave the world a better place than how you left it–is essentially universal. Eric, an Edmond native and Eagle Scout, was inspired by his father to begin scouts in the 6th grade. “I love the organization, because it created lifelong memories for me through summer camps, high adventure camps and other group activities,” he said. In spite of the wide variety of activities offered, many boys and girls quit participating before reaching the highest honor—Eagle Scout for boys and Gold Award for girls. For Eric, that was never a consideration. “It’s such a prestigious honor, and I was determined to achieve it,” he says. For his Eagle project, he painted a map of the United States on the playground of an Edmond elementary school—his alma mater. He has since assisted with other Boy Scout projects and plans to continue to be involved. Pack 21 Assistant Den Leader John Ford of Edmond was a Boy Scout himself and became involved in a leadership role for his son. “My own dad was a scout leader, and I looked forward to our meetings. It was a great opportunity to spend quality time together. It’s been great to be a role model for the kids and watch these boys grow into young men,” he says.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | September 2013

Wrestling While many boys grow up wrestling, it isn’t every day you find a girl with a similar passion for wrestling. Ashley Sword-Buster began wrestling during her junior year of high school at the urging of her younger brother’s wrestling teammates. She tried out for the team when a spot opened up in her weight class, and was the only girl on the team. While her teammates and assistant coach were supportive, the head coach wasn’t supportive of having a girl on the team and gave her little encouragement. “I actually won my first high school match by forfeit, because the guy on the opposing team refused to wrestle me,” she says with a smirk. Not only did she participate at the high school level, she won a scholarship and went on to compete at a college level. Currently, 22 colleges and universities have a varsity women’s wrestling program, including Oklahoma City University. “It became a little easier mentally when I reached the college level and wasn’t the only girl competing. It was nice to know there were more people like me,” she says. Ashley even participated in the Olympic Trials in 2008, before suffering a career-ending injury. She went on to get an art degree from Oklahoma City University, but is glad to see the girls’ wrestling is growing and gaining support. “There are now three states–Texas, California, and Hawaii– with high-school level girls’ wrestling programs. That’s a step in the right direction,” she says. No matter what your child’s passion is, there is probably an extracurricular program that can satisfy it. If your child’s school doesn’t offer a program, there are typically options available in the local community to fill those gaps, whether it’s horseback riding, art classes, photography or fencing. If you or your child have an interest that isn’t exactly considered mainstream, look online or ask other families for suggestions—and if all else fails, start your own group!

Editor’s Note: For a list of local extraordinary extrcurriculars, visit www. metrofamilymagazine.com/extracurriculars. Shannon Fields is a freelance writer and single mom to two girls. An Edmond resident, she graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma and is an HR manager in the medical field.

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

Learning Adventures Make Your Own Journal

ids do a lot of writing on smart phones, iPads and computers but writing on paper helps kids improve grammar, spelling and vocabulary. It also provides a place for teens and tweens to put all their thoughts, so they can revisit them later to see how they think and how they have grown.

Activity Directions Make: Help your child create their own journal and make one for yourself. Below is an idea for a fast, fun and inexpensive way to begin journaling your thoughts and stories right away. Talk: Ask questions to stimulate each other’s imagination and sense of storytelling. While walking the aisles of the grocery store ask, ‘What do you think that man’s story is?’ If you find a button lost from a garment ask, ‘What do you think the clothes that button came from look like? Who wore them?’ Or you might help each other make choices that you are faced with in life by writing a list of pros and cons for each of your options.

Write: If you want your kids to do more writing, write yourself. Remind your kids that their journals are private and you will not read it unless asked. You could even share your own words with your child to get a conversation started.

Instructions: 1. Gather one straw (Sonic straws work great), one rubber band (3 ½ inch), a stack of paper cut to fit the straw (8.5”x11” three-hole paper with the bottom one-third cut off) 2. Thread the rubber band through the upper hole, with a small loop showing in the front. 3. Insert the straw through that small loop. 4. Stretch the rubber band down the back of the paper and thread the end through the bottom hole. 5. Loop the rubber band around the bottom of the straw to hold it in place. 6. Personalize the journal and start writing!

Did You Know? Michele Green, author of the award winning teen novel Chasing the Jaguar says, “Everyone is a writer, whether they know it or not. Whenever you tell a friend a story, you are writing.” Writing is important, especially for teenagers and adolescents, she says, because it gives distance and perspective. So what can you do to help your child find their voice? This Learning Adventures project is sponsored by Primrose Schools. Find more educational fun at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/learningadventures.

Activity ideas provided by Oklahoma A+ Schools, the state’s only research-based whole school network with a mission of nurturing creativity in every learner. Learn more at www.okaplus.org.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | September 2013

LemonAID for Tornado Recovery Thank You to Our Sponsors & Readers

hen the tragic tornadoes hit our area in May, the staff of MetroFamily was committed to find a way to help with the long term recovery for families impacted by this tragedy. After reading an article about a lemonade stand for tornado victims run by a young California girl, we were inspired to take this idea to a larger scale as a way to encourage local children and families to continue their efforts to help tornado victims. Our LemonAID for Tornado Recovery project was born and we quickly found community partners to support our efforts. Our sincere thanks to Buy For Less and Uptown Grocery, owned by Susan and Hank Binowski, Feed The Children and ServeOK. com for joining our efforts.

Feed the Children CEO Kevin Hagan accepting the LemonAID donation check from MetroFamily publisher Sarah Taylor.

In July, we asked our readers to sign up to host LemonAID lemonade stands and more than 50 stands were held across the metro. We are pleased to announce that we were able to raise more than $10,200 for Feed The Children’s Oklahoma Tornado Disaster Relief Fund.

A young girl enjoying raspberry lemonade at Edmond’s Uptown Grocery.

Congratulations to The Pinto Family of Oklahoma City for winning a family getaway to Grapevine, Texas for raising the most money as a family, and to New Hope Christian Church in Oklahoma City for raising the most money as a group and winning tickets to Science Museum Oklahoma. MetroFamily sincerely thanks all of our sponsors and prize sponsors for making the project possible, and all the families and groups who held lemonade stands to help others in the recovery process.

Natilee B. operating her stand outside The Grandison Inn in Oklahoma City.

MetroFamily Ad Sales Executive Dana Price and Assistant Editor Sara Riester at Edmond’s Uptown Grocery.

Allan A. and Chad A. raised $120 at their LemonAID stand in Mustang.

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

Your Healthy Family Talking about Sex with Your Teen

arenting is always hard work, and keeping our children healthy can, at times, seem especially daunting. Teaching our kids about sexuality is among the most intimidating jobs we have as parents, as well as one of the most important. Gone are the days (we hope!) when the girls get most of their information from Judy Blume books and the guys get it from their friends and older siblings. With society’s ever-more-casual attitude towards sex in the entertainment industry, most kids are being exposed to suggestive content at an increasingly younger age. So how do you do it? What is the best way to approach the dreaded subject?

Discussing the Birds & the Bees The answer is...there may be no single best way. Parents know their children best, and should base “the talk” on their maturity level and what they’re observing. “Parents are the number one influencers of their children’s sexual health choices,” says Mike Jestes, an Oklahoma City author of K.E.E.P. (Kids Eagerly Endorsing Purity). “Parents are the trusted source from which children want to receive sexual health information. They should always be honest, open and available to discuss matters of sexual health.” Jestes says that parents who give accurate, candid and timely information to the child become the valued source for teens to turn to when they have questions. “Parents who empower their child with the facts equip then to dispel the myths [regarding sex],” he adds.

When is the Best Time? Dr. Justine Shuey, a Board Certified Sexologist & AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator, says that there is not one magic age to discuss sex with your child. “I believe parents should be having age-appropriate conversations with their children from cradle to college. It’s not a one time conversation,” she explains. “The idea of ‘the talk’ is a myth. It should really be a series of talks.” Dr. Shuey says that sexual education in early years can be as simple as using proper terminology for body parts and then gradually taking on more advanced concepts and topics as the child matures. Elementary and middle school teacher Robin is a mom of three, including an 11-year-old boy and 14- and 18-year-old girls. “I spend most of my time working closely with minority kids in middle school. Parents should know that their kids are hearing things from their peers earlier than they can imagine. It’s much better for their parents

“Parents should know that their kids are hearing things from their peers way earlier than they can imagine...” to give them the facts than for them to learn from urban legends,” she says. “I see teasing and jokes starting in the second grade. In middle school, the kids start going out more and sex talk becomes more specific. By 8th grade, if a parent hasn’t taken the time and initiative to really talk, it may be too late,” she says. With her own children, the discussion occurred at 10-11 years of age.

Where to Begin? Mandy is a single mom of three, including a 16-year-old son. With him, “I look for teaching moments. Anytime something comes up on TV or in the news, we talk about it. I try to keep the dialog open all the time,” she says. While she’d love to see all of her kids strive for purity before marriage, she remains realistic and admits that in today’s society, it’s better to prepare and educate your children and let them know you’re there for them, come what may. Jestes says there are several ways that allow for conversations regarding sexual abstinence with your teen. He agrees that teachable moments, such as watching a movie with sexual content, can lead to a natural conversation and allows parents to share and discuss opinions. Also, asking open-ended questions based on life experiences gives parents a chance to ask their teen’s opinion

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on sexual matters. “Engage in deliberate conversations,” he recommends. “Share with your teen what you learned about sexual health at their age and what you appreciated about the information. Give them the information you feel is necessary at their age on the topic of sexual health and the choice of abstinence.” Renee is a mom of three, including a 13-yearold boy. “When he was nine, I was pregnant with his younger brother and he asked me how the baby was made and put into my stomach. He asked all sorts of scientific questions and I answered them, but that initial conversation was more technical than anything. We’ve discussed it since, and I’m pretty open with my kids when they ask me questions. We just talk very matter of factly about sex and their bodies. I just want him to understand that it’s a huge decision, and to make sure he’s mature enough to handle anything that comes with sex.” Dr. Sheuy encourages parents to keep an ongoing dialogue with your child as they become a teen. “Practice makes perfect,” she encourages. “Take advantage of teachable moments. Share books and resources. You, as a parent, don’t need to know everything but you should be an ‘askable parent’—someone they can come to when they have questions without fear of shame or guilt or negative consequences.”

Confused about Guardasil? Gardasil is a vaccine for use in the prevention of certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause health problem including gential warts and cervical cancer. In the United States, aproximately 4,000 women die every year from cervical cancer and 7,000 men die of HPV-associated cancers. According to Dr. Melanie Marshall, M.D., of INTEGRIS Family Care Northwest in Oklahoma City, Guardisil is recommeded for boys and girls ages 9-26. “The vaccine is given in three doses, within a one-year time span, and the child must receive all three doses to be protected.” Dr. Marshall says that there has been much controversy regarding the vaccine, both in the media and amongst physicians themselves. “The pros are that the vaccine protects aginst the two most common cancer-causing types of HPV, which cause 75% of cervical cancers,” she says. “[However], there are more than 25 other types of HPV that it does not protect against, so it is not 100 percent effective in preventing cervical cancer. Females who get the vaccine still have to screened with pap smears and it does not treat anyone with existing HPV.”

How Much Do They Need To Know? The local parents interviewed for this story agreed that kids need to know about sexually transmitted diseases and contraception options. With sex comes potential consequences, both physical and emotional. Most of the parents try to emphasize a sense of gravity and responsibility, by talking to their kids about respecting their bodies as well as their partner’s health and wellbeing. “Discuss topics of birth control and sexually transmitted dieases using facts,” says Dr. Shuey. “If you don’t know the answer, don’t make things up. Instead find resources together or take your child to a health professional and give them the privacy to ask the health care provider the questions they want.” Sexting and sending suggestive or sexual images is another important topic that should

be addressed in today’s society. Remind your teen that a picture can potentially last forever and follow you throughout your life. Many parents choose this time to talk to their kids about alcohol and drugs, which can often lead to irresponsible sexual behavior. Some parents choose to answer questions about their own experiences, while others don’t. Whatever you decide, the important thing is to open up a line of communication, and make sure your kids are comfortable talking to you about important subjects such as sexuality.

Shannon Fields is a freelance writer and single mom to two girls. An Edmond resident, she graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma and is an HR manager in the medical field.

In terms of side effects, Dr. Marshall says that over 33 million vaccines have been administered thus far, with 18,000 cases of reported side effects. “Some are as minor as pain and swelling at the injection site, or nausea and headache,” she explains. “Eight percent of the side effects were serious [approximately 1,400 cases]—including death.” “It is a new vaccine, so we don’t have any long-term studies to show what the side effects are,” she concludes. “Many physicians feel that the benefits outweigh the risks. Others say that we now know how to screen and treat cervical cancers, negating the need for the vaccine.” If you are questioning if Guardasil is right for your child, Dr. Marshall encourages open communication with your family physician. “Treat it as you would any other vaccine,” she encourages. “Always do your research, understand it and then weigh the overall risks and benefits.”

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

Local Shopping Nearly New: Affordable Fashion

ohn Santore always knew “exactly and precisely” what he wanted to be when he grew up. Born and raised in New York, Santore always has a passion for fashion— leading him to gain professional training at the Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan before going on to work with the brands of famous designers such as Ralph Lauren, Geoffrey Beene and Chanel. “My inspiration was that I had an uncle in the fashion industry and he got to have long hair, wear jeans and had a house on the beach,” he laughs. “My first year in the business was a true education. I got to work with every major house and every major brand. It was lovely.” Santore’s career expanded into advertising and he was recruited to come to Oklahoma to serve as a Senior Vice President and Creative Director of Jordan and Associates. It was during his time in advertising that he began shopping at Nearly New, a nearby consignment store. “I was shopping here and finding great deals,” he explains. “The former owners needed help with marketing, so I helped them come up with a plan.” Eventually, Santore had the opportunity to purchase the store and has now owned it with his wife Hattie for 10 years.

Not Your Grandmother’s Consignment Shop Nearly New has been in business for almost 50 years at its location on North Western Avenue near West Britton Road, and has continued to grow and thrive under Santore’s ownership. The 12,000-square-foot store offers designer clothing for both women and men, formals, handbags, shoes, jewelry and even bridal gowns “This is not your grandmother’s consignment shop,” Santore explains. “The things we have are of the moment. They are cute.” Nearly New has almost 19,000 consignors who sell their unwanted clothing through the store.

And fashion is a big part of Nearly New’s focus. “I worry about keeping the store relevant,” Santore admits. “Right now, it’s all about the Sustainable Fashion movement. There are so many great designers who are making sure that clothing is manufactured in countries where workers make a decent wage, using organic cotton and more. It is very important that we are plugged into that.”

For Santore, the key was realizing that price was not the key to Nearly New’s success. “It took me 8 of the 10 years to figure that out,” he jokes. “It’s not just the price, it also has to be fashionable. It is a given that when you walk in the door of a consignment shop, you are going to get it for less. But we make sure we have the best, the brightest and the cutest.”

To spread his love of fashion, Santore frequently shares clothing and style tips on Nearly New’s Facebook page (www.facebook. com/nearlynewokc) “We put stuff out there every morning, interesting clothes from Milan, Paris and New York,” Santore adds. “I believe in style, not just fashion. You discover what looks good on you and go with it.”

Finding and offering the cutest clothes is serious business. “We reject 80% of what comes in the door and we see about 5,000 items each week,” he explains. “Cute stuff sells. Even if it is name brand, I don’t want it if it’s 15 years old. We are the only consignment store that really focuses on the fashion thing.”

Nearly New’s Hattie and John Santore.

Fashion Forward

Finding Your Style Nearly New specifically caters to working women who need to look their best and need to get a full wardrobe at the best price. In addition to providing fashion advice, Santore and his staff can also help customers find the

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | September 2013

Nearly New 9218 N. Western Avenue, Oklahoma City 405-848-4141 www.facebook.com/nearlynewokc Monday–Saturday, 10am–6pm How Do I Become a Consignor? To become a consignor, call for an appointment. Clothing must be clean and on hangers. Nearly New will keep your items in the inventory for 60 days and then you can choose to donate unsold items to Habitat for Humanity or pick them up. What Do Your Customers Say Most Often? “That this place is fun! If you go in a mall, they have the same stuff week after week. We change inventory all the time, so there is always the thrill of the hunt.”

best clothing for their particular frame. “We can do an analysis on body type, skin color, hair color, etc.,” he explains. “It’s invaluable to look your best. It’s amazing what people don’t know about dressing themselves. It’s a passion for us and we love it. We can help you figure out what’s working and what’s not and why. We can help you look your best based on your body, complexion and hair color.”

Prom Central For the teen set, Nearly New has become a destination for finding a wide selection of prom dresses and other formals. “Proms are in April, but we have girls shopping earlier and earlier every year. We’ll start seeing prom shoppers in January.” And the prom dresses are also fashionable at Nearly New, recently including an exclusive collection from designer Johnathan Kayne of Project Runway fame. “He just showed up at the store with them one day,” Santore recollects. “There were racks and racks of gowns, many were runway pieces and custom dresses. Some of the dresses were worth thousands and sold here for closer to $200.” The store has also recently expanded to include bridal gowns when Santore had an opportunity to purchase a bridal shop in southwest Oklahoma City. “We are now the only bridal consignment store in Oklahoma,” he notes. “We have everything from David’s Bridal to Vera Wang. We sell dresses that were originally $10,000 for less than $2,000.”

More than Saving Money Santore reflects that it was his experience as a shopper at Nearly New that taught him how to run his business. “I came here because I wanted to get better stuff,” he explains. “And it’s not just about saving money, it’s about getting better stuff for your money. We are the place people have the ability to buy better stuff in an affordable way. As my grandmother used to say, ‘It’s never dumb to buy good.’”

Brooke Barnett is the Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Ask the Experts Tackling Teen/Tween Issues—Communication, Money & Sex My daughter is 16, and we’ve always been very close in the past. But now, I can hardly get her to say one sentence to me. I want her to have her space and independence, but I also want to know what’s going on in her life. How can I get my teen to TALK to me?

How can I help my two teenagers to understand that there is not an endless supply of money in our bank account? I feel like I am constantly fending off requests to buy this, buy that...how can I help them to understand that money does not grow on trees?

Give her time. Give her space and most importantly, have your listening ears ready. She is going to want to talk, so be the best listener in her life. It is age appropriate for her to be pulling away. She is “trying on” differently personalities independent of her parents. Let her try each one on and see how it feels. Don’t push, but be there for her and she will come back to talk.

As parents, we have the awesome responsibility and privilege to teach our young people how to be responsible adults. This lesson goes hand in hand with the ability to manage and appreciate money and a budget. I encourage parents to develop a system within their homes of an allowance for young people as a return for doing chores. It serves as a great way to offer incentive for quality work, and it also opens the door for them to learn how to better manage money. Allow your young person to spend this money on things they want or anticipate needing, above and beyond what you provide. There will be consequences for every purchase as they recognize that there often is a limit to the money they have versus what they have to spend it on.

Devonne Carter is a clinical social worker in private practie in Edmond. 405-326-3923, www.carterscounseling.com. Adolescence can be a difficult time for both parent and teen, as the adolescent is finding his or her own identity. I have heard teens will not really listen to parents unless the parents have the teen’s trust and respect. Earning respect can be difficult if the teen doesn’t feel like she is heard. Teens watch and listen to parents more than they likely realize. Often a parent will tell their child to be honest, for example, then do something disingenuous like not be 100% honest on their taxes. This inconsistency makes it difficult for a teen to respect their parents, leading to stonewalling when the parent wants more than a “fine” when asked how they are doing. Kevin Tutty is a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice. 405-431-6225. Our Readers Respond: • Do something together that is girly, like get your nails or hair done. Bring one of her friends and engage them in conversation. • Get a journal to write notes to her. Leave it on her nightstand with a letter to her from time to time. If, she decides to write back, great! If not, that’s okay, too. • Tell her that you love her every day and let her know that you are always there for her. Plan times with just the two of you. She needs growth, but she also needs her mom. Thanks to Chrtina D., Lori Ann G. and Traci J. for your feedback!

Donnie Van Curen, M.A., LMFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist with Counseling 1820, LLC. 405-823-4302, www. counseling1820.com. Let them earn their own money. You can give them an allowance or you can pay them to do chores. Tell them this designated money is their spending money. When the money is gone for the designated time period, it is gone. Do not give them any more. They will then learn to budget on their own. —Devonne Carter

My daughter is 10 and we haven’t had “the talk” yet. Is this the appropriate age to discuss “the birds and the bees”? What’s the best way to talk to her about sex? A key indicator of the need for “the talk” is often in the questions or conversations you observe in your child. If the subject is not coming up with your ten year old it might not be necessary at this time. When discussing this subject, I encourage all parents to be specific and honest, but also talking with regard to the audience. A talk with a ten year old should be different than with a thirteen year old. Be prepared to answer questions and to only offer information as needed and requested. You may find this talk to be very simple and quick at first, with future more in depth talks to follow.—Donnie Van Curen Although there is no magic age for having “the talk,” it is probably best do it by age 10 or shortly after. If you notice that your child is starting to show signs of maturity before then, or they start asking questions, it may need to be addressed even earlier. Kids can learn so much through their friends and media, it is better that they get the information that you want them to have from you. There are many helpful resources online that will give you the confidence to answer your child’s questions and give her the information she needs. There are also helpful ideas about how much to tell and when. I think it is important to convey to your child that growing up is a natural part of life and nothing to be embarrassed about. The more comfortable you are, the more likely the lines of communication will be open between you in the years to come.

Our Readers Respond:

Lanet Clark is a metro area school counselor.

• Get them involved in the family budget, have them help you pay the bills so they can see where the money goes and why it has to go there. Make them do chores to earn their own spending money. • Say “Yes, you can have some money when you find a job.” or “Yes, you can have some extra cash when you _________.” They will have to become responsible at some point for providing for themselves, so let them be responsible now. We have to teach them the value of staying within budget, saving money, and working in order to get what we would like. Thanks to Kami M. and Erica I. for your feedback!

Our Readers Respond

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• There’s a great series of books that start with a book called “It’s Not the Stork.” I love them because they talk about all types of things from families to bodies to sex in kid-friendly, matter-of-fact ways. • You want it to be an ongoing conversation. Because, let’s face it, a 10 year old does need to know some things, but certainly not everything. So, approach it casually— with humor, if possible. Thanks to Melissa M & Gayleen R. for your feedback!

September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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September 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

Mom Gets the Last Laugh Spilling It: Oversharing with Your Teen

“M

omma?” my first born, who was on the verge of becoming an official teenager asked, “What were you like in middle school?”

Illustration by Emily Ball, http://emilymgball.com.

“I didn’t go to middle school,” I answered deftly dodging the question, “It used to be called junior high.” That answer should have sufficiently sent us down the path about the history of public schools and their ever-changing configurations. And, if my distraction was successful, we would completely stray away from the subject of my awkward years. But, I’ve raised a smart one. “Same difference, Momma. Just tell me about it.” I tried a different tactic: a question with a question, “What do you think I was like?” “Momma,” she sighed, “Just answer the question.” It was my turn to sigh. I guess she was going to have to find out eventually that I had not always been the super-cool and amazingly awesome person she knows—the one who drives a dusty minivan in the pick-up lane blaring Taylor Swift through the speakers. I wondered exactly what I should tell her. I believe that some things are better left unsaid. But I also believe that honesty is the best policy, so I spilled. I told her about the time I was putting on my smuggled-out-of-the-house lipstick in social studies class and it broke, causing me to streak a line across my face, down my shirt and onto my pants as the boy sitting across from me busted out laughing and fell out of his chair. “I had a crush on him, so I was wanting to impress him. I guess in a way I did, huh?” I smiled at her sitting in the passenger’s seat. Without giving her much time to respond, I continued to drag her down my own Memory Lane until we came to the intersection of Completely and Awkward, where I told her about the time I took clothes to change into after a choir contest but didn’t take an extra pair of shoes. That afternoon at the University of Oklahoma with a gazillion seventh and eighth graders racing all over campus, I was wearing a sleeveless yellow sweater, some orange and pink jams and twoinch black patent leather pumps. “I’m sure it didn’t look as bad as I remember it,” I said in an effort to reassure myself more

than anything. But I knew the truth. It totally looked as bad as I remember. Probably worse. It easily could have been the absolute worst outfit I’ve ever had on my body. I shook my head to dismiss one fashion mishap for another as I recalled my eighth grade art class, where I inadvertently cut my bra strap while scratching my shoulder with a pair of scissors. I don’t know why I was scratching with scissors. I’m not sure how I didn’t actually cut myself. I also wasn’t aware that a snipped bra strap will snap against your skin with a small pop sound. Immediately, I asked to go to the bathroom, where I tied my strap into a knot. After art class, I went to the bathroom again, where I re-tied my strap into a knot. Shortly after my math class started, I asked to go to the bathroom yet again, where I tucked the unattached and untied bra straps into the cup of my bra. Finally, just before math class ended, I once more excused myself to go the bathroom, where I removed my bra with its clipped strap and shoved it into the trash can. “I carried my books against my chest for the rest of the day, including lunch,” I explained to my intently listening daughter. “I guess that goes to show you that anyone can solve any problem they encounter. I felt really great knowing that I had taken care of the issue

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | September 2013

myself and didn’t need to ask an adult for help.” I sounded like an after-school special. It was a Mother-Of-The-Year moment. As we continued on our way home, I told her about the time I went all day with my green jellies on the wrong feet. I shared about the time Rebecca tooted in PE and blamed me. And because I was scared of Rebecca, I owned up to it and apologized to the class. Finally, I told of the time I shook my chocolate milk after I had opened the carton, spraying chocolate milk all over me, my table mates and the really cute football players at the table behind me. “So you see, honey, you can’t be any dorkier than your momma,” I reassured her with a smile. “I know, Momma,” she smiled back, “but I was really just wondering what kind of grades you made.”

Heather Davis is an Oklahoma momma, a writer, and an eternal dork. She blogs at www. Minivan-Momma.com and is the author of TMI Mom: Oversharing My Life.