November 2013 MetroFamily

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3 WAYS TO CAPTURE THE TRUE HOLIDAY SPIRIT Experience breathtaking holiday lights SIMPLE STEPS TO MORE THANKFUL KIDS Unforgettable kid-made holiday desserts MEET THE LOCAL MOM MAKING A GLOBAL IMPACT Over 159 family events to enjoy this month

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The ultimate OKC family fun

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METROFAMILY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013

Volume 16, Number 11

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EDITORIAL

Sarah Taylor - Publisher Brooke Barnett - Editor/Social Media Sara Riester - Assistant Editor/Calendar Nicole Nuccio Calvert, Stephanie Clinton, Heather Davis & Erin Page - Contributing Writers

Three ways to capture the spirit of the holidays

Learn how your family can get involved, make a difference and give back this holiday season.

GOT A STORY OR BIG EVENT? We are all about family activities and fun in the OKC metro. If you have a story to share, let us know!

CONTACT THE TEAM AT (405) 601-2081

DESIGN & SALES The Faulkner Group - Art Direction Lisa Kelley - Sales Director Athena Delce, Dana Price - Sales Kathy Alberty - Office/Distribution

Circulation - 35,000 Also available as a digital edition at metrofamilymagazine.com.

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

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

MetroFamily Magazine is a monthly magazine published

by Inprint Publishing 725 NW 11, Suite 204 • OKC, OK 73103 Office:405-601-2081 • Fax:405-445-7509 E-mail:info@metrofamilymagazine.com ©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2013, All Rights Reserved.

10 P. 10 FANTASTIC HOLIDAY LIGHTS

Capture the spirit of the holidays at these breathtaking holiday light displays across the metro.

PLUS...

DON’T MISS ALL THIS

22 P. 22 REAL MOMS OF THE METRO

How one local mom is spreading love across the globe through her humanitarian efforts in orphanges in China.

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P. 14 MEANINGFUL GIVING

Plenty Mercantile in Automobile Alley offers a chance to find unique gifts full of sustainability, integrity and purpose.

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Simple steps for thankful kids

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2013 Holiday Gift Guide

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Mom humor: Time for some “Me Time”

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Top 10 places to shop on Small Business Saturday

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Learning Adventures: How your pen can change the world

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Find the best retail shopping, birthday party venues and more in our specialty ad guides

Welcome FROM OUR EDITOR

This month, we focus on all the wonderful things that kick off the holiday season—from holiday lights to volunteering together.

ENTER TODAY at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/contests.

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here are so many important things that we teach our kids. In addition to arming them with the skills that they need to prosper and succeed in life, we hope that we are also showing them how to be compassionate, loving and caring.

We hope to give them an understanding of the role that we each play in our community and to encourage them to lend a hand to those who need it.As the holidays approach, it is the perfect time of year to do more than just talk about giving back—it is time to experience firsthand how every person, every family can make a difference.

It is the perfect time of year to do more than just talk about giving back— it is time to experience firsthand how every person, every family can make a difference.

Our November issue is all about giving back, helping others and making a difference in our world. Featured writer Nicole Nuccio Calvert gives you the inside scoop into three ways your family can capture the holiday spirit by getting involved with local nonprofits (p. 26) and I had the pleasure of meeting a local mom who opened her heart and changed the world for orphaned kids a world away (p. 22). We hope these stories will inspire your family to explore your passions and make a

r u o r e t n E contestsig! to win b • OKC Philharmonic’s The Christmas Show ticket giveaway (Deadline: November 15) • Academy of Dance Arts’ “If You Believe” ticket giveaway (Deadline: November 15) • Ticket giveaway to Donny and Marie Christmas show (Deadline: November 26) • National Reining Horse Association’s “A Slide to Remember” ticket giveaway (Deadline: November 29)

positive impact, this month and throughout the year.

We are also recognizing the familyfriendly businesses that make an impact on our community everyday.We received nearly 6,000 nominations for our 2014 Family Favorites awards—and now it is time to vote on our finalists! Between now and November 15, visit www. metrofamilymagazine.com/family-favorites to help us decide which local business will be honored for their outstanding service to families.

Finally, be sure to stop by our website at www.metrofamilymagazine.com and check out all our handy holiday resources.

We can help you find places to volunteer, special holiday celebrations and other ways to truly make this a memorable holiday for your family.

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• Be in a holiday parade and win an ice skating party in our Ice Prince and Princess Contest (Deadline: November 30) • Visit Enid’s contest provides a weekend in Enid, complete with four tickets to Sesame Street Live, one-night hotel stay and dinner for four. (Deadline: November 30) • OKC Ballet’s The Nutcracker ticket giveaway (Deadline: November 30) WIN A $900 HOLIDAY GETAWAY TO THE GAYLORD TEXAN RESORT IN GRAPEVINE, TEXAS! Vote on our 2014 Family Favorite finalists and you will automatically be entered to win a two-night getaway to the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, Texas. The package includes accommodations for up to four people, including admission to ICE!, Dreamwork character meet-and-greets and more! To be eligible to win, vote at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/family-favorites and let us know which local businesses do a great job serving families! Deadline: November 15 at 10pm.

THIS MONTH’S COVER Thomas Howard, 8 year old son of Tom and Michelle Howard is a third grader at St. John’s Episcopal School, OKC. Cover photo by Randy Coleman Photography, www. randycolemanphotography.com.

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family buzz

This month, we’re buzzing about ways to help your kids be thankful and give back!

It’s all about family fun!

RESOURCES TO ADD TOYOUR HOLIDAY FUN QUOTIENT

BY BROOKE BARNETT - METROFAMILY EDITOR

Top 10 Reader Picks: Best places to shop on Small Business Saturday

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ou may be familiar with Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but are you also taking advantages of the great deals available during Small Business Saturday? We recently polled our readers for their favorite local businesses to shop on Small Business Saturday (November 30) and here, in random order, are their responses:

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Feathered Nest Market - www.featherednestmarket.com Cinnamon Bears - 102 S. Broadway, Edmond Best of Books - www.bestofbooksedmond.com Green Bambino - www.green-bambino.com Shop Good - www.shopgoodokc.com Full Circle Bookstore - www.fullcirclebooks.com Native Roots Market - www.nativerootsmarket.com Plenty Mercantile - www.plentymercantile.com Serendipity Market -www.serendipityofedmond.com Uptown Kids - www.uptownkidsstyle.com

Simple steps to grateful kids

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elping to develop a grateful attitude in your child may be as easy as asking the right questions. Licensed marital and family therapist Randy Crownover of Edmond says that we often get so busy that we forget to take stock of all we do have and simple questions can help us to re-focus.

7. What do you value most about each family member? Have each family member express in writing what they most appreciate about the other members of your family. Make it a fun surprise by writing your thoughts on disposable placemats that you debut at your Thanksgiving meal.

“With these activities, think outside the box and get creative,” Randy adds.“Kids are such concrete thinkers that activities like these can help move them towards more abstract ideas like gratitude and give them a sense of true appreciation of what they have.” And that is certainly something worth being thankful for.

HOW TO INCREASE APPRECIATION THIS THANKSGIVING To help your kids develop an attitude of gratitude, explore the following questions and activities as a family: 1. What can you do this year that you couldn’t do last year? From riding a bike to acing a trigonometry test, have your kids make a list of new skills and abilities they have mastered in the past year.

2. How have they grown this past year? What opportunities have allowed them to gain these skills?

3. Who helped you to achieve your goals? Based off their accomplishment list, make a list of people who have helped you achieve those milestones and write them a note, draw them a picture or thank them in person for spending their time and expertise with you.

4. Who makes you smile? Spend time reflecting on the people who bring happiness to your life.Think of everyone from friends and family to the helpful lady at the post office or your favorite teacher. Pay the smile forward by letting them know how they brighten your child’s life and have made a positive impact on your family.

5. If you were to make a collage to represent your life, what would you include? Talk through the items or photos you would include—or, even better, build an actual collage as a family. Discuss why each item is included and what it says about your values and priorities.

6. Are there any things you would like to add or subtract in the coming year? If you build a collage, display it as part of your holiday decorations

Spreading the good: two fun ways to give back this holiday season

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anting to give back?

Here are two fantastic opportunities in the OKC metro this month:

1. Take a new, unwrapped toy to the Academy of Dance Arts’ annual holiday production of “If You Believe” on November 23 at the Rose State Performing Arts Center. All toys collected will benefit the Marine’s Toys-4-Tots campaign.

2. Find great holiday gifts at the Dale Rogers Training Center Gift Shop (2501 N. Utah), open M-F, 8am-5pm.The proceeds from the gift shop support the nonprofit and the people with disabilities who work there. www.drtc.org.

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exploring oklahoma

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Making it merry and so bright YOUR GUIDE TO THE METRO’S BEST HOLIDAY LIGHT DISPLAYS Get caught up in the magic of the season with these breathtaking holiday light displays in and around the OKC metro.

BY ERIN PAGE - CONTRIBUTING WRITER

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here’s something about the chill of a dark night lit by thousands of tiny twinkling lights that brings the holiday spirit to life in all of us. Hearts of all ages are warmed by the simplicity and nostalgia of spending time with loved ones marveling over glittering winter wonderlands. Such joy.

For families craving to slow down and enjoy quality time with one another amidst the bustle of the holiday season, what better way than to squeeze in the car with some hot chocolate to enjoy some of the metro’s most delightful holiday light displays?

Here are a few displays you won’t want to miss this holiday season.

Chickasha Festival of Light

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hough guests can drive through the 43 acres of holiday lights in Shannon Springs Park, the walkthrough option allows visitors to take their time as they enjoy more than 300 displays featuring 4.5 million lights.

Celebrating its 21st year, the Festival of Light in Chickasha is consistently recognized as one of the top holiday lighting events in the country and will be open from November 23 through December 31.

With four miles of lighted walkways throughout the park, families can stroll at their own pace to enjoy quality time together.Viewing the displays on foot gives visitors the chance to trek across the lake on a festive bridge adorned in 75,000 lights, which also offers a view of the lighted sea serpent. An animated nutcracker-inspired exhibit set to music is another annual favorite.The cornerstone of the Festival is the 16-story-tall Christmas tree, which will feature LED lights set to holiday music this year. ‘ For families seeking a truly unique holiday experience, the Festival of Light offers much more than its lighted displays.

A live nativity scene features local actors from community churches, and camel and carriage rides are offered nightly. Santa himself is available for photos in the gift shop, which also sells gooey homemade cinnamon rolls, toasty hot chocolate and a variety of holiday gift options.

The event is free to enjoy, and any donations received go back to the Festival to add new displays.

Shannon Springs Park • 2400 S. 9th St., Chickasha. Begins 11/23. Sun-Thur: 6-10pm; Fri– Sat: 6-11pm, 405-224-9627, www.chickashafestivaloflight.com.

Christmas in the Park • Yukon

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he City of Yukon’s Christmas in the Park offers unique driveand walk-through opportunities to marvel at more than 4.5 million twinkling lights across 100 acres of city parks, lit nightly from November 23 through December 31.

For motorists, three miles of illuminated paths stretch throughout Yukon City Park (with the starting point located at 2200 S. Holly), Freedom Trail Playground and Chisholm Trail Park. An additional 2.2 miles of walking trails provides an intimate, up-close view of the creative displays.

With 6,400 LED bulbs, the Santa’s Workshop display takes a peek at Santa’s elves hard at work, and the 34-foottall OG&E Dancing Christmas Tree’s 77,000 lights dance to holiday music that changes each night. Chisholm Trail Park also features several displays with computer-animated lights synchronized to Christmas music.Visitors can park in designated areas, tune their radios to the posted broadcast station and enjoy the musical display. In addition to the 365 lighted displays, quaint glass-front village

MIDWEST CITY

CHICKASHA homes depicting a variety of holiday themes are intermingled among the holiday lights.

Perhaps the best view of the lights is from aboard the Santa Express Train, which offers rides nightly from 6–10pm, weather permitting.The train loops through the Christmas displays and passes twice through a new 100-foot tunnel, festively adorned with lights and playing favorite holiday tunes.

Passengers can purchase tickets ($2 per person; free for children 3 and under) at the 1800s-era train depot, located inside Chisholm Trail Park at 500 W. Vandament. Admission is free, donations are always accepted to support upkeep and new displays.

Yukon City Park • 2200 S. Holly Avenue.

Begins 11/23. 6-11pm nightly, 405-354-1895, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

Holiday Lights Spectacular • Midwest City

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he City of Midwest City hosts its 18th annual drive-through Holiday Lights Spectacular in Joe B. Barnes Regional Park from November 22 through December 30.

As an expected 60,000 guests make the leisurely drive along the 1.5 mile path, they will be delighted by 90 brightly lit displays,

YUKON featuring more than one million lights.

An 8-foot star adorns a stunning 118-foot Christmas tree in the center of the park, and Santa enjoys some R&R before his big night as he fly fishes by a 15-foot waterfall. A crowd favorite is “Illumination Celebration,” a dancing forest of lights coordinated to holiday music, which can be heard by visitors from the warmth of their vehicles on a dedicated radio frequency.

The free event offers candy canes to each visitor and even provides dog treats to canine companions who come to take part in the fun.

Guests should plan to spend at least 30 minutes enjoying the brilliantly-lit animated displays.

For those who want a unique look at Holiday Lights Spectacular, the annual 5k Night Light Run is the only way to see the lights on foot.The run will be held December 14 at 5:45pm, and registration is available at signmeup. com/95389.

Proceeds benefit the Holiday Lights Spectacular Fund, which is primarily funded through donations.

Joe B. Barnes Regional Park • S.E. 15th and Century Blvd.; Begins 11/22. 6-11pm nightly (weather permitting), 405-739-1293, www.midwestcityok.org/holiday-lights.

For more festive holiday light displays in the OKC metro and around the state, visit www. metrofamilymagazine.com/holiday-lights.

local shopping

The art of sustainable living and meaningful giving

BY BROOKE BARNETT - METROFAMILY EDITOR

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lenty Mercantile opened its doors the day before Thanksgiving in 2012, offering a new shopping experience in the heart of Automobile Alley.

There is a story behind every product on the shelves at Plenty Mercantile From locally handturned bowls to cleaning products made by two stayat-home dads, this store’s products are unique and often one-of-a-kind.

A SENSE OF ORIGIN Owner Traci Walton and her partners, daughter Brittney Melton and family friend Chris England, felt like the location was the store’s destiny.“We looked for over a year to find a space and had anticipated moving into a much smaller space,” she explains.“But then we found out that this building used to be a 1920’s Chevy dealership.

Our delivery truck and icon is an old 1957 Chevy truck, so we took that as a sign that we were meant to be here.”

“We see lots of people with ties to this building and to Automobile Alley, and people who are excited to see it coming back,” Walton explains.

“We focus on the fact that we are adding value to a building that’s been here a long time.We are honoring it’s history and our community.”

BUILDING COMMUNITY Honoring community is a theme that runs throughout the store’s merchandise as well.“We are a sustainable lifestyle store,” Walton says.“We know the story behind each product, where it came from, how it was made and that the people were treated fairly.We only sell stuff we feel good about having in our store.”

The store focuses on selling items that work to improve the quality, experience and needs of life—both for producers and end consumers.

“We can see a difference in the people we buy our products from, just from us telling their story, raising awareness and encouraging mindful consumption,” she adds.“ It’s kind of a balancing act—if the product travels a long way to reach us, it needs to have great sustainability practices in its own community.”

Plenty also takes part in community-building events, such as Automobile Alley’s monthly Shop Hop, held from 6:00-9:00pm on the third Thursday of each month.“Come take a stroll and see what we have to offer in here.” Traci explains.“We think people will find that you don’t have to sacrifice style for sustainability.”

GIFTS WITH DEPTH Plenty buys most of its merchandise from small producers, but also works with larger brands to promote products that promote community and sustainability.“We hope that we are helping to

Plenty Mercantile recently opened their rooftop event space which will be used for kid and adult classes and is available to be rented for special occasions.

push forward the mindset of those companies that what they are doing is valuable and that there is a call for that.These are products with depth— heirloom products that you will pass down—and many are handmade.”

Walton highlights some of her favorite products in the store, including serving trays made from scrap wood from a family carpentry shop in Arizona, and fair-trade coffee marketed by two OSU graduates whose proceeds benefit schools in Stillwater. In addition to offering unique gifts, Plenty also offers gift certificates for the store’s new line of classes, which range from organic box gardening to wine pairings to magic tricks for kids, many of which will be held in the store’s new rooftop event space.

ENOUGH FOR ALL As the store gears up for the holiday season, Walton is amazed by how much has happened in one year. “When we moved in, we thought we would never fill the space,” she laughs. “Now we have even expanded all the way up to the roof. When you come into our shop, there aren’t any surprises.You can bring in your kids, your entire family—it is truly a family-friendly space.”

And as the name implies, Plenty will continue its focus on having enough for everyone—a concept of fullness and contentment, without being too much.

“Enough for all, all communities and all people,” Traci concludes. “That’s the very heart of what we do.”

Plenty Mercantile 807 North Broadway Ave www.plentymercantile.com 405-888-7470 Tuesday-Wednesday, 10:00am-7:00pm Thursday, 10:00am-9:00pm Friday-Saturday, 10:00am-7:00pm Sunday, 12:00-4:00pm

gift guide

MetroFamily’s holiday gift guide THE HOLIDAY GIFT BUYING SEASON IS HERE! This year, MetroFamily is proud to present these great gift ideas, courtesy of our loyal advertisers.

With this guide, you’re sure to find that perfect one-of-a-kind present for everyone on your list.

LEARNING TREE TOYS EzyRoller ($110) combines the control of a bike and the fun of a scooter. This award-winning toy moves with only easy leg movements (without chains, pedals or batteries).

For ages 4-14. Learning Tree Toys, 7638 North Western, (405) 848-1415, www.learningtreeokc.com

DALE ROGERS TRAINING CENTER The Prairie Spice Gift Set ($21) is one of many locally-made items available at the Dale Rogers Training Center Gift Store. Proceeds from the store support the nonprofit and the people with disabilities who work there. DRTC Gift Store, 2501 N. Utah Ave, (405) 813-9998, www.drtc.org/commerce.

OKC MUSEUM OF ART Expertly-made by award-winning toy manufacturers at Vilac, this Harlequin Guitar ($36.95) has wooden construction and is suitable for complete beginners, ages 3 and up. Oklahoma City Museum of Art, 415 Couch Drive, (405) 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com

OKC BARONS Give the gift of a customizable Barons jersey for the hockey fan on your list.Visit shop. okcbarons.com for details.

Oklahoma City Barons, 615 N Hudson, (405) 232-4625, www.okcbarons.com.

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE / OKC FAMILY FUN / NOVEMBER 2013 //

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gift guide

Paid Advertisement

MUSEUM OF OSTEOLOGY This deck of playing cards showing 54 skeletons is just one of the fun, science-related gifts found at the museum.The store also includes 4D puzzles, animal-themed gifts and unique jewelry. Museum of Osteology, 10301 S Sunnylane Rd, (405) 814-0006, www.museumofosteology.org.

GIRL SCOUTS Create a personalized, unique bracelet for the young jewelrylover on your list with CHARM IT! charms ($5 each). These cute charms snap on easily and are interchangeable. Available at the Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma Shop, 6100 N. Robinson Ave, (405) 528-4475.

TAYLOR MADE PHOTOGRAPHY The Family Artisan Series Composite features a variety of layouts and framing options, perfect for gift giving. Mention this ad for 15% off when you place your order during the month of November. (Not valid with any other offer.)

Taylor Made Photography, 1130 W 15th, 405-341-5088, www.taylormadephotography.com.

NATIONAL COWBOY AND WESTERN HERITAGE MUSEUM Give the gift of cozy warmth in this stunning Geometric Shawl ($50) by Aziza. This one-sizefits-all piece features toggle closures and a hood.

National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd, (405) 478-2250, Ext. 275, store.nationalcowboymuseum.org.

GREEN BAMBINO The Animal Parade A to Z Puzzle ($40) by Begin Again toys encourages open-ended play for children 3+. Find this and other Begin Again toys for birth to elementary school at Green Bambino, 5120 N Shartel Ave, (405) 848-2330, www.green-bambino.com.

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SAM NOBLE OKLAHOMA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY Make her holiday bright with this handcrafted fossil necklace and bracelet “Zero Karat Gold” set ($250 necklace, $125 bracelet) by Charles Albert. Excavations at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, 2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman; (405)325-4712, www. samnoblemuseum.org.

PAINT ‘N STATION Paint a one-of-a-kind specialty piece—a truly unique gift. Pick a project to fit anyone on your list, including cute coffee mugs. Pottery items start at $3 & up. Paint ‘N Station, 7906 N May, (405) 842-7770, www.paintnstation.com.

OKLAHOMA RAILWAY MUSEUM These authentic engineer caps for children and adults are perfect for the train enthusiasts in your life. Also, find a wide array of Thomas the Tank Engine toys. Oklahoma Railway Museum, 3400 NE Grand Blvd, 405-424-8222, www.oklahomarailwaymuseum.org.

THE VINTAGE PEARL The Vintage Pearl’s Sweet Circle of Love necklace ($59) is a beautiful hand-cut sterling silver circle that holds custom engraved names, meaningful phrases or favorite scripture. Includes sterling silver ball chain and freshwater pearl. The Vintage Pearl, 1289 E 15th, Edmond; (405) 330-0100, www.thevintagepearl.com

GAYLORD PICKENS OKLAHOMA HERITAGE MUSEUM STORE Delight anyone on your list with these hand-painted, wooden Oklahoma Quote Signs ($28-32) featuring sayings from notable Oklahomans like Will Rogers, Wanda Bass and James Garner. Custommade signs available. Gaylord Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum Store, 1400 Classen Dr, (405) 235-4458, www.oklahomaheritage.com.

STEFFANIE HALLEY PHOTOGRAPHY Beautiful and simple, portraits make the best gifts for friends & family during the holidays—especially for those hard-toshop-for grandparents! Steffanie Halley Photography is offering a free 8x12 print with portrait sitting by mentioning “MetroFamily.” (912) 247-0003, www.steffaniehalley.com.

real moms of the metro

BY BROOKE BARNETT - METROFAMILY EDITOR

Real moms of the metro: Meet Amy Eldridge HOW THIS MOM OF SEVEN SPREADS LOVE ACROSS THE GLOBE

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY CANDACE FAULKNER - WWW.CANDACEFAULKNERPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

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my Eldridge was already the mother of five kids when she decided to look into adopting children from China. “I look at my son and daughter from China and I am still in awe that I somehow got the honor to be their mom,” she confides. “ I am so glad all of my children now understand that family has nothing to do with simple genetics, but instead everything to do with the heart.”

I had no formal project proposals, no knowledge of international business laws, no experience at all in setting up a new business,” Amy explains.

“But I did have a passion to help children who were orphaned, and so I gave it everything I had.

The beautiful thing is that as word spread about what we were trying to do, more and more people came alongside us to help.” Love Without Boundaries just celebrated its tenth year of working with orphaned children, and Amy reports that the organization impacts approximately 1,500 children each year—many of which are now in permanent homes around the world

A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE

TRANSFORMING LIVES

Amy first visited an orphanage in China in 2003—an experience she says changed her life forever.“I walked through room after room of abandoned babies lying in cribs all day, and my heart honestly broke in two,” she explains. “One of the babies was extremely blue and struggling for breath. The orphanage told me that he was dying of heart disease and was not going to receive surgery due to a lack of funds. I came home from China and knew I had to do something to try and save his life.”

Amy is now a happy mother of seven children, ranging in age from 9 to 26.“My oldest four have moved on to college and careers, and I am so proud of them while also feeling bittersweet that they no longer live under my roof,” she says.“Without a doubt, being a mom has been the absolute greatest blessing of my life. And since I had both boys and girls, introverts and extroverts, athletes and artists—it has been a very rich experience to get to parent each of them.”

It was through helping that child receive a life-saving surgery that Amy developed the idea of forming a charity dedicated to providing hope and healing for orphaned children in China. Love Without Boundaries (www. lovewithoutboundaries.com) was born that same year and began providing foster care, educational opportunities for orphaned children, healing homes for children born with medical needs that cannot be met in an institutional setting, surgeries and other needed medical services, nutritional support and assistance for orphanages in locations across China.

For Amy, the experience of family is what makes life so worthwhile. She credits her nonprofit work and personal adoption story in opening her eyes to the enormous number of children around the world who are growing up without parents.“Every child born has the right to be raised in a loving family, and I believe all of us should do more to ensure they get that chance,” she concludes.“I think a lot of us wonder if one person’s efforts really matter in the grand scheme of things, but the reality is that all of us have the ability to completely transform someone’s life.We just have to take that first step in faith, and then incredible things can happen.”

“Of course, I was not a corporate leader.

Here’s more about how this 48-year-old mother of seven is working to make a difference for children in need around the world What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about kindness and respecting people for the unique individuals they are. My kids know that one of my #1 rules comes from the famous quote:“Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.”

How do you banish stress?

I am the queen of deep cleansing breaths (thank you, childbirth!), and I also walk as much as I can when I need to clear my mind. Chocolate has been known to help as well!

What inspires you?

The abandoned children I work with every day are my inspiration for everything. These children have absolute nothing and no one, and many are facing such severe medical issues, and they fight so hard to survive every single day. How can anything in my life be as hard as what they are going through? It puts everything in perspective and makes me work that much harder to help them.

orphaned if that was His will. My job is extremely hard emotionally. Children die and are hurting every day. So whenever I need motivation to keep going, I think about that morning out in the country and know I can’t give up.

How do you find balance in your life?

I can’t just clock out of work at 5:00pm, since babies come urgently into our care at all hours. I know I work too much, but I talk to my kids about how I want as many children as possible to have what they have: a loving home, a mom who adores them and an unlimited future.

Advice for other moms?

Live in the moment and be present for your kids, as the short time you have with them goes by so quickly. My other piece of advice is to trust your gut. A mom’s inner heart is rarely wrong.|

What is on your wish list?

What is your parenting style?

I wish every child could grow up in a loving family. I wish adults would realize the power they hold over little people and do everything possible to be worthy of that. I wish more people would open their hearts to adoption. I wish our legislators would pass laws that put children first, rather than the parents who often neglect and abuse them

I believe learning from our mistakes is what makes us all much better people, and so I don’t try to save my kids when they make their own. I am a listener, and feel very blessed that my kids feel very comfortable sharing their life concerns with me.

What are you most proud of?

“Mothers hold their children’s hands for a short while, but their hearts forever.” ~Anonymous

I am completely humbled that God has allowed me to do this work. When an abandoned child who is near death comes into our hands, and I get to watch him or her get a second chance at life, I feel amazed that I am allowed to play a part in their stories.

Favorite quote or advice about motherhood?

On page 22: Amy Eldridge and her children, Laura (age 26), Matt (age 24), Patrick (age 22), Jonathan (age 19), Jack (age 17), Anna (age 14) and TJ (age 9).

WANT TO MEET MORE REAL MOMS?

What motivates you?

Ten years ago I drove out in the country and told God that He could have my whole life for the

ONLINE: www.metrofamilymagazine. com/real-moms

BY NICOLE NUCCIO CALVERT - CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Giving back this season

THREE WAYSYOUR FAMILY CAN EMBRACE THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT 26

// METROFAMILY MAGAZINE / OKC FAMILY FUN / NOVEMBER 2013//

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ith the holidays The organization provides food for approximately adding to already90,000 Oklahomans in need each week—onefull schedules, it’s all third of which are children.“The majority of too easy for the true those served by the Regional Food Bank are the meaning of the season to get lost working poor, seniors and children,” explains in the hustle and bustle of holiday Angie Gaines, RFB’s Director of Marketing and commitments and gift giving. But Communications.“The Regional Food Bank how does a busy family shift the depends upon the support of the community to focus from getting to continue to provide food giving? How can we for those struggling with ensure that our children “Exposure to community hunger in our state.” experience the true social issues gives kids meaning of the holidays?

How to help: Children between the perspective needed Combining family time with the ages of 8 and 18 are to see beyond their volunteerism is a great way to welcome to volunteer fit philanthropic efforts into an when accompanied by own needs and have already hectic schedule. Local an adult, making this a compassion for others.” great opportunity for clinical social worker Karleen Daugherty (LCSW) says that the entire family. Families KARLEEN DAUGHERTY, LCSW volunteering as a family is a great can volunteer Mondayway to encourage gratitude in Saturday and help with your children.“It gives children sorting and packing the opportunity to see their parents as a positive food to be distributed. If your family seeks a role model,” Daugherty explains.“Exposure to more active experience, you can volunteer community social issues gives kids the perspective to deliver food to residents of senior housing needed to see beyond their own needs and have sites or to bring fresh produce to low-income compassion for others.” neighborhoods, volunteer to help garden for Urban Harvest or hold food and fund drives Here are three ways that your family can through your local community, church or school make a difference this holiday season, all while to benefit the work of the RFB. embracing the true spirit of the holidays..

Financial contributions made between FIGHTING HUNGER...FEEDING HOPE The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma (RFB) works to provide access to healthy, nutritious food for those living in a food insecure household.

November 15-January 15 will have extra impact as Chesapeake Energy Corporation and a caring local family will match every dollar donated up to $1 million. For more information on volunteer opportunities, visit regionalfoodbank.org/volunteer.

ADOPT-A-FAMILY IN NEED Sunbeam Family Services is dedicated to providing the poor and working poor with affordable, social services including individual counseling, group counseling, senior services, emergency foster care and early childhood development programs. “This is a very special time of year, but it can be tough for many families that we serve,” says Courtney Hyder, Sumbeam’s Marketing and Development Coordinator. “Many of our clients have a difficult time providing basic necessities for their families and themselves, so holiday gifts are the last thing on the list.”

How to Help: BRINGING CHRISTMAS TO TORNADO VICTIMS Interested in helping the approximately 10,000 people were directly impacted by the tornadoes in May 2013? Join forces with a group of students at Northwestern Oklahoma State University through the Rebuilding Christmas: 2013 Oklahoma Tornado Christmas Relief Drive.

This group hopes to provide new and gently-used decorations and other festive items to help families recapture the spirit of the holidays for their children.“After a disaster, people aren’t concerned about [holiday] decorations, there are more important priorities that come first,” says project coordinator Jessica Blanchard. “This is a small way that we can help lighten that burden that arises around holidays. Our dream is that every family has a lit tree, stockings, and most of all, a memorable Christmas.”

How to help: If your children are part of a youth group, Scout troop or other organization, consider serving as a collection point for new or gently-used holiday decorations. Or, ask your neighborhood or church to band together to make handmade ornaments, collect stockings or other decorations.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ RebuildingChristmas.

Sunbeam’s Adopt-a-Family Program allows your family to help with basic necessities and holiday wishes for families in need. Children of all ages can get excited to pick out gifts for others in needs and experience first-hand the joy of making holiday wishes come true. For more information, call (405) 528-7721 or visit www.sunbeamfamilyservices.org

Inspiring Kids: Katie’s Crafts for Special Needs, Inc.

ornaments, paracord bracelets, rubber band bracelets and keychains. She currently has 14 stores across the Oklahoma City metro that sell various items.“She’s figured out something that allows her to use her autism to an advantage,” Casey says.“If you look at her pens, every single one is perfect. People know if they are buying her stuff, they are going to get quality.”

klahoma City native Katie McKinney is the driving force behind Katie’s Craft’s for Special Needs, Inc. The 12-year-old has autism and epilepsy, and first started making and selling handmade crafts three years ago.

Katie’s Crafts offers special items for the holidays and accepts custom orders.“Katie is always accepting donations for the various projects that she works on,” Casey adds.“If you have durable medical equipment that is no longer needed, please consider donating it to Katie and letting us find it a new home where it is needed.

We also are taking requests for those needing assistance.” Find Katie’s Crafts for Special Needs, Inc. on Facebook for more information or to make a request.

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During this same time, she attended Camp Barnabas, a summer camp for children and adults with special needs that allows campers to experience everything that a typical child does at camp, including swimming, archery and canoeing.“When she first started making crafts, the money that she raised was used to help other kids from Oklahoma be able to go to camp,” explains her mother Casey McKinney. Katie says that being able to send her best friend Lexi to Camp Barnabas was the best part of her efforts to date.“Lexi is in a wheel chair, and for the first time ever, she got to enjoy being just like everyone else,” Katie explains. “The week that she went, most of the kids were also in wheelchairs. So, she got to feel normal.”

Over the past three years, Katie’s efforts have expanded to include helping local families with special needs to afford service dogs, medical equipment and more. She also helps match families in need with durable medical equipment that needs a new home.“I understand how it feels when you need something and for whatever reason you can’t get it,” Katie explains.“So I want to help other kids get what they need.”

Katie is best known for her duck tape flower pens, but her line of crafts include molded soaps, hot pads/pot holders, crochet scarfs and afghans, Christmas

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OUR CALENDAR MAKES FINDING FAMILY FUN IN OKC EASY— PLUS FIND EVEN MORE AT METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM

STATEHOOD OKC THUNDER—OCTOBER DAY CELEBRATION—NOV 15 & 20 16 Join It’s time the Gaylord-Pickens to Thunder Up, Oklahoma OKC! The Oklahoma Heritage Museum CityThunder (1400 Classento Drive) in wishing Oklahoma a happy birthday! return the Chesapeake Energy Arena for 106th a preseason Enjoy FREE museum and family-friendly activities matchup against the admission Denver Niuggets at 7pm on Tuesday, while learning more about the Oklahomans who have October 15, with a final preseason game at 6pm on made this state great. Scheduled November 16 from Sunday, October 20 againstfor theSaturday, Utah Jazz.

You can also 10:00am-5:00pm, the offers birthday cake3and catch the Thunder in event actionalso on Sunday, November special discounts in the Museum Theregular museum allows against the Phoenix Suns for theStore.

2013-14 season a unique look into the lives of notable Oklahomans such as home opener. The Thunder will continue the tradition Reba McEntire, Wiley Post and Mat Hoffman. faces, of family-friendly scheduling this season, withThe 22 home voices and spirit of Oklahoma fromSaturday every walk life that games set to be played on Friday, andofSunday, inhabit the Museum create an experience unlike any other with earlier start times on Sunday evenings. in the state or nation.

MORE INFORMATION: www.nba.com/thunder MORE INFORMATION: www.oklahomaheritage.com PHONE: 208-4800 PHONE: 235-4458 Photo Courtesy of the Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum

JUNIE B. IN JINGLE BELLS, BATMAN OKC BARONS—THROUGHOUT OCTOBER SMELLS—NOV 20–DEC 18

The Oklahoma City Barons hit the ice for their 2013-14 season Based the best-selling bookagainst series,the Charlotte this delightfulCheckers production with anon exciting season opener by the Oklahoma Theatre brings the world ofThe Junie on Friday, OctoberChildren’s 4, 7pm at the Cox Convention Center.

B. Jonesplay to life.

Kids agesgames will enjoy watching Junie B. Barons a total of of 38all home this season, including as she pulls blabbermouth Mayduring for her Secret night Santa—and opportunities to win a new car Saturday games wonders to games, do since Santa is watching like a hawk! and after what Sunday skate time is made available to Performances be held from Novembergiveaways 20-December families.

Specialwill theme nights, promotional and 18th (see website forare schedule) the Children’s Center concession discounts offered at throughout the season. for the Arts Blackwelder). are $10 adults Tickets begin(2501 at $16Nand are availableTickets at the Cox Convention and $7 children 2-12. Receive a free child’s ticket with Center box officeages or at www.ticketmaster.com. paid adult ticket with MetroFamily’s Kids Pass, available at MORE INFORMATION: www.okcbarons.com www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-pass.

PHONE: 232-4625 MORE INFORMATION: www.oklahomachildrenstheatre.org PHONE: 951-0011 Photo Courtesy of Oklahoma Children’s Theatre

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RACE FOR THE OUTDOOR ICE SKATING—ONGOING CURE—SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20

Strap20th The on your Annual skates Susan and G.get Komen readyOklahoma to enjoy some City Race outdoor for the fun!Cure The will be Ice Devon heldRink on Sunday, (November October 15-February 20 from 6:30-11:00am 2) returns for at itsthe 3rdMyriad season Gardens. in the Myriad Part Botanical of the largest Gardens. seriesOpen of 5K7 runs/fitness days a week,walks the rink in the hosts world,public daily the Race skating, for the private Cureparties raises fund and special for theevents fights against all winter breastThe long. cancer, Edmond celebrates Outdoor breast Ice Rink cancer (November survivors22-January and honors5) those is located at lost the their beautifully-lit Festival MarketThe Place in downtown who have battle with the disease. event features Edmond, and offers daily skating, group a competitive 5K race, 1-mile Funprivate Run & aparties, Kids’ Dash & rates and more.

The Norman IceRegistration Rink (November 5) is moving Survivors’ Ceremony. begins29-January at $20. to Andrews Park, offering daily skating in a scenic park setting in MORE INFORMATION: www.komencentralwesternok.org central Norman.

PHONE: 526-2873 DEVON ICE RINK: www.downtownindecember.com EDMOND ICE RINK: www.expressice.com NORMAN ICE RINK: www.normanicerink.com Photo Courtesy of Downtown in December

RED DIRT DINOS—ONGOING Oklahoma’s largest Cretaceous carnivore and a claw-wielding predator are among the life-like dinosaurs featured in the new exhibit Red Dirt Dinos: An Oklahoma Dinosaur Adventure at Science Museum Oklahoma. The 1,500 square-foot exhibit features three interactive robotic dinosaurs that use infrared technology to detect movement, react to visitors and interact with other dinosaurs within the exhibit.

The exhibit will be on display through March 15 and admission is included in museum general admission.

MORE INFORMATION: www.sciencemuseumok.org PHONE: 602-3760 Photo Courtesy of Science Museum Oklahoma

LYRIC’S “A CHRISTMAS CAROL”—NOV 29–DEC 28 CHESTER’S PUMPKIN PATCH—THROUGH NOVEMBER 3 Continuing an annual holiday tradition, Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma presents Lyric’s fromPumpkin November 29–December 28 Offering 25 acres“A ofChristmas family fun,Carol” Chester’s Patch at Chester’s at the Barn Plaza&Theatre (1725Cimmaron NW 16th Rd St.).NW, ThePiedmont) productionoffers captures Party Farm (5201 an the magic andentertainment joy of Christmas as the ghosts of Families Past, Present and exciting new option this season. can check Future the miserly Ebenezer on a powerful journey out thelead Great Underwater EscapeScrooge Show, which features daring of transformation and redemption.

Relive the cherished tale of feats from escape artist and magician Steve Crawford. Regular Jacob Marley, and aa pony host of unforgettable admission (forBob agesCratchit, 1+) is $8Tiny and Tim includes ride, one pumpkin, characters.

Tickets are $40;slide, see website a performance hayride, petting zoo, giant 3-acres for mystery maze and schedule. more.

The show is appropriatecharge for all ages. $1 additional admission applies for Great Escape show.

Chester’s is open Monday-Saturday, 9am-6pm and Sunday, 1-6pm.

MORE INFORMATION: www.lyrictheatreokc.com PHONE: 524-9312 MORE INFORMATION: www.chesterspartybarn.com PHONE: 373-1595 Photo Courtesy of Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma

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NOVEMBER 1 • FRIDAY Family Game Night at the Museum at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua, Norman) features family games in the galleries, a kid-friendly dinner & more. Price includes 1 adult & 1 child.

Preregister. $20 members, $30 nonmembers, $10 additional member, $15 additional nonmember. 6:30-9pm. 325-4712, www.samnoblemuseum.org.

OKC Barons vs. Chicago Wolves at the Cox Convention Center. $16+. 7pm. 232-4625, www.okcbarons.com. Other home games this month: 11/2, 12, 15, 16, 30.

NOVEMBER 1–2 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.

OKC Philharmonic—Sci-Fi Spectacular at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker) features host, George Takei & soprano, Kristen Plumley. $15+. 8pm. 842-5387, www.okcphilharmonic.org.

NOV 2 • SATURDAY FREE Kids Workshops “Sail a Mighty Ship” at Home Depot Stores features hands-on workshops for children ages 5-12 on the first Saturday of each month. All kids receive a complimentary apron, commemorative pin & certificate. 9am-noon. www.homedepot.com.

FREE National Weather Festival at the National Weather Center (120 David L Boren, Norman) highlights weather related organizations & activities with hourly weather balloon launches, children’s activities, storm research vehicle displays & more. 9am-1pm. www.norman.noaa.gov/events/nwf.

FREE Pumpkin Harvest Craft Festival at Robertson Activity Center (Hwy 66 & Yukon Parkway, Yukon) features over 45 crafter vendors, bake sale & Pumpkin Patch Café.

9am-4pm. 350-8937, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

FREE Lakeshore Learning Crafts for Kids “Scarecrow Windsock” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May, OKC) features a fun craft for ages 3+. 11am-3pm.

858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

Also held: 11/9, 16, 23, 30.

FREE Ye Olde Hallows Eve at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial) is an old-fashioned “Hallows Eve” festival including outdoor activities, pumpkin Olympics & costume contest. 1–5 pm. 755-0676, www.okc. gov/parks/martin_park/index.html.

FREE Handmade Holidays: Sugar Scrubs at Capitol Hill Library (334 SW 26) is a gift-making workshop for parents & children.

Supplies provided. Preregister. 2-3pm. 634-6308, www.metrolibrary.org. Also held: 11/23 (Holiday Cards).

Drop-in Drawing at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch) is a come-and-go drawing session in the museum’s permanent collection & special exhibition galleries. FREE with paid admission. 2-4pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com.

NOV 3 • SUNDAY FREE Let’s Get Midwest City Moving 5K Run/Walk at Regional Park (8700 E Reno, Midwest City) features a non-sanctioned 5K through the park for the whole family.

Includes a health expo from 2-5pm. Donations will be collected for the Mid-Del Food Pantry. Preregister. 3pm. www.ouhsc.edu/ONIE. FREE Melody of China at the Downtown Library (300 Park) features a repertoire of Chinese musical forms including folk songs, classical & modern Chinese music

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as well as pieces from different ethnic groups in China. 2:30-3:30pm. 231-8650, www. metrolibrary.org. Also held: 11/4 (Capitol Hill & Bethany), 11/5 (Midwest City), 11/6 (Edmond & Northwest), 11/7 (Southern Oaks & Belle Isle), 11/8 (Village & Del City).

Canadian Brass at the Armstrong Auditorium (14400 S Bryant, Edmond) features a legendary brass quintet in concert. $20+. 7:30pm. 285-1010, www.armstorngauditorium.org.

OKC Thunder vs. Phoenix Suns at the Chesapeake Energy Arena (100 W Reno). 6pm. www.nba.com/thunder. Other home games this month: 11/6, 10, 18, 21, 24, 27, 29.

FREE Art a la Carte at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) includes live music, films & an art activity. 6:30-8:30pm.

325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

NOV 4 • MONDAY

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 Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua, Norman) on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm. 325-4712, www.snomnh.ou.edu. Also held 12/2.

NOV 5 • TUESDAY Explore Clay! at the Myriad Gardens Crystal Bridge South Lobby for ages 3+ to build manipulative skills while creating flower pots, figurines & more. Preregister. $10 members, $12 nonmembers. Tuesdays in November, 10:3011:30am. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org.

Also held: 11/12, 19, 26.

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.

NOV 5–10 Irving Berlin’s White Christmas at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker). $20+.

Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm; Sunday, 2pm & 7pm. www. celebrityattractions.com.

NOV 7 • THURSDAY Fit Family Meals at Francis Tuttle (12777 N Rockwell) focuses on kid-friendly, familyfriendly cooking. Preregister. 6:30-9:30pm. www.francistuttle.edu.

NOV 8 • FRIDAY

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.

Sleep with the Sharks at the Oklahoma Aquarium (300 Aquarium, Jenks) is a overnight adventure featuring light snacks, dive show, scavenger hunt, flashlight tour, a movie & breakfast. Preregister by 11/6 at 3pm. $45 nonmembers, $35 members. 7pm-8am. 918296-FISH, www.okaquarium.org.

NOV 8–10 The Secret Garden: the Musical at Rose State Performing Arts Center (6000 Trosper, Midwest City). Friday-Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. $12, $8 students, $5 seniors. 297-2264, www.rose.edu/rslive.

NOV 8–DEC 24 2013 Holiday Gift Gallery at the Firehouse Art Center (444 S Flood, Norman) offers unique gifts including paintings, pottery, jewelry, blown glass, sculptures, ornaments & more. MondayFriday, 9:30am-5:30pm; Saturday, 10am-4pm.

329-4523, www.normanfirehouse.com.

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NOV 9 • SATURDAY Edmond’s Got Talent at Mitchell Hall on the UCO Campus features a talent show by Edmond residents. $7 in advance, $10 at the door. 7pm.

340-4481, www.edmondfinearts.com.

FREE Chasing James at Green Bambino (5120 N Shartel) features family-friendly music from a local child-centered band. 11-11:30am.

848-2330, www.green-bambino.com.

OSU Football vs. Kansas at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater. TBA. www.okstate.com.

Other home games this month: 11/23.

NOV 9–10 Veteran’s Day Celebration at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial, Sulphur) features FREE admission to the exhibit center for active military & veterans as well as a stomp dance to honor military personnel, & more. 580-622-7130, www. chickasawculturalcenter.com.

Just Between Friends Consignment Event at the Fireworks/Halloween Warehouse (3001 NE 50). Many items half-price on Sunday. Saturday, 10am-7pm; Sunday, 11am-3pm. www. edmond.jbfsale.com.

NOV 9–24 Don’t Waste: Create! Regional Art Exhibit at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee) features artworks which address the theme of recycling.

Visitors who bring a paper product to recycle will receive FREE admission. 878-5300, www. mgmoa.org.

NOV 11 • MONDAY FREE Veteran’s Day Ceremony at UCO Plunkett Park honors current & former service members with the posting of the colors, hymns for each branch of the US Armed Forces & the playing of taps. 2pm. 974-3686, www.uco.edu.

(November 9 - November 14)

Harry Connick Jr. at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker). $55+. 8pm. 297-2264, www.okcciviccenter.com.

FREE or Discounted Admission for Military Personnel on Veteran’s Day: •

Oklahoma Aquarium, 10am-6pm, www.okaquarium.org

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OKC Zoo, 9am-5pm, www.okczoo.com

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National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 10am-5pm, www. nationalcowboymuseum.org

NOV 12 • TUESDAY A Monumental Celebration of Community—A Taste of the South Event at Plaza Mayor at the Crossroads (formerly Crossroads Mall) features area restaurants & caterers, wine tasting from Oklahoma wineries, silent auction, door prizes, live music & entertainment. Proceeds benefit a monument in tribute to Oklahomans & the community of Moore. $30 in advance. 5:30-8pm. 631-4422, www.plazamayorok.com.

Bravo Brass Quintet at OCCC (7777 S May) features brass musicians from the Tulsa Philharmonic. $10-$20. 7pm. 682-7579, www.occc.edu/cas.

NOV 14 • THURSDAY Wine Through Time at Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S Boulevard) is a wine & food tasting fundraiser. Ages 21+. $50+. 6-8:30pm. 340-0078, www.edmondhistory.org.

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Girl’s Night Out at Merry Marketplace hosted by the Edmond Women’s Club at Oak Tree Country Club (700 W Country Club, Edmond) features a fashion show, live demonstrations, holiday shopping, hors d’oeuvres & champagne. Proceeds benefit local charities. $15/person. 6-8:30pm. www.ewc.org.

NOV 14–15 KXY Loves Kids Radiothon & Miracle Kids Calendar Launch at the Children’s Ospital (1200 N Children’s) benefits the Children’s Hospital Foundation. 6am-6pm.

271-9043, www.okchf.org.

NOV 15 • FRIDAY Make Art & s’More at the Museum of Osteology (10301 S Sunnylane) features a night of crafting including diorama-making, dinner, & build-your-own-s’mores bar. Price includes admission, dinner & dessert, art supplies, child’s art smock & instruction.

Preregister. $30/child, $20/adult.

6-9pm. 814-0006, www. museumofosteology.org.

NOV 15–17

NOV 15–FEB 2 Devon Ice Rink at the Myriad Gardens hosts daily public skating, private parties & special events all winter long. $10 w/skates, $7 w/ own skates. Monday-Thursday, 3-9pm; Friday, 3-11pm; Saturday, 11am-11pm; Sunday, 11am7pm; 1/1, 10am-10pm; 1/21, 10am-8pm. 2973423, www.downtownindecember.com.

NOV 16 • SATURDAY Queen for a Day at Church of the Servant (14343 N MacArthur) features speakers, vendors and workshops to make single moms feel like royalty. See website for information. www.supportforsingleparents.org.

Edmond North Husky Band Holiday Craft Show (215 W Danforth, Edmond) features over 45 vendors offers handmade crafts, holiday decor, jewelry & more. FREE Admission.

9am-4pm. 501-3463, www.enhsband.com.

Hooray for Turkey Day at the OKC Zoo (2000 Remington) allows allows participants to help make & deliver tasty treats for the animals to enjoy. Includes possible allergens. Preregister. $15/child member, $18/child nonmember. 10-11:30am. www.okczooed.com/families.

FREE Alpaca Blastoff at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie features interactions with Alpacas as well as a variety of spinning, weaving & felting demonstrations & activities. See website for schedule. www.aplacablastoff.com.

FREE Statehood Day Celebration at the Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum (1400 Classen) celebrates the 106th birthday of Oklahoma with family-friendly activities, discounts in the Museum store & cake. 10am5pm. 523-3211, www.oklahomaheritage.com.

NOV 15–DEC 8

OU Football vs. Iowa State at the Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium.

Time TBA. www.soonersports.com.

Dreamgirls presented by the Poteet Theatre (222 NW 15) is a story about how rhythm & blues blended with other styles of popular music to create a new American sound. Rated PG. Select Saturday matinees available. $20.

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

FREE Storytime with Cinderella at Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen). 10:30-11:30am.

418-8881, www.uptownkidsstyle.com.

Sensory Sensitive Movie at the Warren Theatres (1000 S Telephone, Moore) screens Free Birds for children with autism &/or sensory disorders with modifications that include not

ember (November 14 - November 23)

as dark, lower volume, no previews or ads, kidfriendly talking, wiggling, standing & dancing are ok. $7. 11am. 735-9676, www.warrentheatres. com/sensorysensitive.asp.

OKC Philharmonic—Legends at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker) features Garrick Ohlsson on piano. $15+. 8pm.

842-5387, www.okcphilharmonic.org.

NOV 17 • SUNDAY FREE Family Days at Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman). Explore art in the museum’s permanent collection & temporary exhibitions along with a variety of hands on activities for the entire family. 1-4pm. 325-4938, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

NOV 19 • TUESDAY Tiny Tuesdays: Terrific Turkeys 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.

NOV 20 • WEDNESDAY FREE Hunger Games: Catching Fire Party at the Edmond Library (10 S Boulevard) kicks off the Catching Fire movie release with Hunger Games cake, games & a Capitol costume contest. For teens. 6:30-8pm.

341-9282, www.metrolibrary.org.

NOV 20–DEC 18 Junie B in Jingle Bells Batman Smells presented by the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre (2501 N Blackwelder) based on the best-selling children’s book. $10 adults, $7 children ages 2-12. Monday, Wednesday & Friday, 11am; Saturday-Sunday, 2pm. 951-0011, www. oklahomachildrenstheatre.org.

NOV 21 • THURSDAY FREE Third Thursdays on Historic Western Avenue (NW 41 to NW 46 on Western). Visit the shops of Historic Western Avenue while enjoying food trucks, monthly specials and more. 5-8pm. 524-1500, www.facebook.com/southendsundays.

FREE Auto Alley Shop Hop in Historic Automobile Alley features open house events at local shops, extended shopping hours, live music, street artists & performers, kids’ activities, food, discounts, giveaways & more.

Held every third Thursday of the month. 6-9pm. www.automobilealley.org.

NOV 21–24 Hansel & Gretel at the Fine Arts Institute (27 E Edwards, Edmond) performed by 2nd-7th graders.

Thursday-Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 3pm & 7pm; Sunday, 3pm. 340-4481, www.edmondfinearts.com.

Bright Night of Cub Scouts at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52). Cub Scouts can enjoy a special night at the museum including experiments, a guided tour of space in the planetarium, Science Live & more. Preregister. $45 kids, $25 adults. 6pm-midnight. 602-3760. www.sciencemuseumok.org.

NOV 22-23 Phoenix Quest Harry Potter Convention at Leonardo’s Children’s Museum (200 E Maple, Enid) features activities, Quiddich exhibition match, Tri Wizard Trivia Challence, Horcrux Hunts, costume contests, Diagon Alley vendors, a Yule Ball, showing of the Sorcerer’s Stone & more. See website for full schedule. Friday, 7-11pm; Saturday, 8:30am $25 adults, $15 ages 6-12, $10 Yule Ball, $10 movie screening, $40 all inclusive adults, $30 all inclusive ages 6-12. 580-233-2787, www.visitenid.org.

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NOV 22–24 FREE Thanksgiving Celebration at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial, Sulphur) features holiday sales, children’s Christmas workshop, Native American miniature ornament class, Christmas decorations, stomp dance & living village activities. Admission required for exhibit center. 580-622-7130, www. chickasawculturalcenter.com.

It’s a Wonderful Life: The Musical at First Baptist Church OKC (1201 N Robinson) based on the popular holiday film. Benefits Feed the Children. $10. 7pm. www.iawlokc.com.

NOV 22–JAN 5 Edmond Outdoor Ice Skating Rink at Festival Market Place (2 & Boulevard, Edmond) features ice skating, food concessions, indoor restrooms & wireless internet. $10 w/skates, $9 military ID or food/toy donation, $7 w/ personal skates, $5 ages 5 & under. Noon10pm daily. Thanksgiving Day, 4-10pm; Christmas Eve, noon-5pm; New Year’s Eve, noon-11pm. 274-1638, www.expressice.com.

NOV 23 • SATURDAY FREE St. Jude Give Thanks Walk at Penn Square Mall Food Court (1901 NW Expressway) benefits St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and encourages participants to collect donations, plus fun activities for families. Preregister. 8am. 366-2503, www.givethankswalk.org.

FREE Santa Market Craft Show at the Edmond Downtown Community Center (28 E Main, Edmond) features one-stop shopping from 90 vendors in 4 rooms, food vendors, door prizes & more. Proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Association. 9am-5pm. 314-1033, www.facebook. com/thesantamarket.

Craft Fair & Bazaar at Earlywine Park YMCA (11801 S May) including handcrafted gifts, jewelry, clothing, home decor & more. FREE admission. 9am-3pm. 378-0420.

FREE Community Mandala Project Opening Day at the Myriad Gardens Pavilion allows the community to participate in the creation of a madala using all natural materials.

The project runs through 11/29. Noon4pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org.

If You Believe Holiday Dance Production presented by the Academy of DANCE Arts at the Rose State Performing Arts Theatre has a cast of 100 children of all ages loosely based on the The Polar Express.

New, unwrapped toys will be collected for Toys-4-Tots. $10. 2pm & 7pm. 324-7600, www. adacemydanceartsok.com.

FREE Opening of Christmas in the Park at Chisholm Trail, Freedom Trail & City Parks features the Chill Your Cheeks 5K, Jungle Walk, Kris Kringle Karnival & the turning on of the lights. Activities include a horse drawn wagon, train rides, pictures with Santa, refreshments, Christmas music & games. 4:30-8pm. 3548442, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

NOV 23–JAN 4 Chesapeake Snow Tubing at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 S Mickey mantle) features 90-minute sessions of tube rides on a hill of manmade snow. Includes a smaller kids slope for riders under 48”. Single riders only. Advanced ticket purchase recommended. $10/90-minute session.

Saturdays & Sundays 11/23-12/15, Daily 12/191/4, Closed on Christmas Day. Sessions start noon, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm & 8pm. 218-1000, www. chickasawbricktownballpark.com.

NOV 23–DEC 31 Christmas in the Park at Chisholm Trail, Freedom Trail & City Parks in Yukon features over 100 acres of Christmas lights.

Donations accepted. 6-11pm. 350-8937, www. cityofyukonok.gov.

ember (November 22 - November 29)

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

Circus Spectacular at the Enid Event Center features international performers from more than 15 countries. $19+. 7pm. www.enideventcenter.com.

NOV 26 • TUESDAY FREE Tree Lighting with Santa at the Outlet Shoppes at OKC (7624 W Reno) features cookies, hot chocolate & the lighting of the mall’s 30 foot tree. 7-9pm. www. theoutletshoppesatoklahomacity.com.

gourmet coffee, a pop-up dance club & goodies while getting early Black Friday deals. 10pm-5am. www.theoutletshoppesatoklahomacity.com.

NOV 29–DEC 15 A Wonderful Life: the Musical at the Sooner Theatre (101 E Main, Norman) features Frank Capra’s film classic brought to life through music. $20+ adults, $15 children 12 & under.

Friday-Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. 321-9600, www.soonertheatre.org.

NOV 29–DEC 24

FREE Admission at the OKC Zoo (2000 Remington). 424-3344, www.okczoo.com.

Coffee Creek Christmas Tree Farm in Arcadia allows families to hunt for their special Christmas tree. Features Unusual and One-of-a-kind Santa Shop, hot chocolate, homemade cookies & candy canes for all. Cash or check only. Weekdays, 4-6pm; Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, 1-6pm. 396-2282, www.okchristmastrees.com.

NOV 28 • THURSDAY

NOV 29–DEC 28

Edmond Turkey Trot 5K at Downtown Edmond Community Center (28 E Main, Edmond) features a timed 5K or 1-mile family wobble.

Strollers, costumes & leashed dog welcome.

Benefits Turning Point Ministries. $10-$26. 8am.

590-8665, www.edmondturkeytrot.com.

Lyric’s A Christmas Carol presented by Devon Energy at the Plaza Theatre (1725 NW 16). Rated G. $40. Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday-Saturday, 2pm & 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. www. lyrictheatreokc.com.

NOV 27 • WEDNESDAY

The Original OKC Turkey Trot at Stars & Stripes Park (3701 S Lake Hefner) features a 5K, 1-Mile Family Fun Run & Gobbler Dash benefitting the Eagle Ridge Institute. $15+, FREE for children under 12. 8am. www. oklahomacityturkeytrot.org.

OKC Turkey Tracks in downtown OKC (5th & Harvey) is a 5K and Fun Run that benefits Toys for Tots toy drive. $25+ 8:30am. www. okcturkeytracks.com.

FREE Thanksgiving Up All Night at the Outlet Shoppes at OKC (7624 W Reno) features

NOV 29 • FRIDAY FREE SandRidge Tree Lighting Festival at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark features photos with Santa, music by Banana Seat, popcorn, cookies, face painting & more. 5-7pm. www.downtownindecember.com.

FREE 9th Annual Holiday River Parade on the Oklahoma River features a ski show, decorated boats & fireworks. Main viewing area in the Boathouse District. Festival opens at noon.

Parade at 6pm. www.okcparade.com.

novem

events this DAILY EVENTS

NOV 29–DEC 29

NOV 30–DEC 1

FREE Water Taxi Rides on the Bricktown Canal. Thursday-Sunday, 6-9:30pm. www.downtownindecember.com.

Deluxe Winter Market at the Chevy Bricktown Events Center (429 E California) offers holiday shopping at more than 40 vendor booths featuring local & handmade goods, food trucks, music & kids’ activities. Saturday, 10am-8pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm. www.downtownindecember.com.

NOV 29–JAN 1 FREE Automobile Alley Lights on Broadway from NW 4 to 10) features more than 200,000 colorful LED lights draping the historic buildings of Automobile Alley. Dusk to dawn. www.downtownindecember.com.

FREE OG&E Garden Lights at the Myriad Gardens features a stroll through the renovated & beautifully-illuminated Myriad Gardens each night. www.downtownindecember.com.

FREE OneMain Financial Bricktown Canal Lights on the Bricktown Canal features holiday lights accessible by foot or Water Taxi. www.downtownindecember.com.

NOV 29–JAN 5 Norman Ice Rink at Andrews Park in Norman. $10 w/skates, $7 w/ own skates, $5 ages 5 & under. Monday-Friday, 4-10pm; Saturday-Sunday, noon-10pm. (see website for special Winter Break hours). www. normanicerink.com.

Santa’s Adventures on the Oklahoma River features Santa Zip, Rudolph’s Launch, Candy Cane Rock Wall & more. Saturdays, 1-9pm; Sundays, 1-5pm. www.oklahomariverevents.org.

NOV 30 • SATURDAY FREE Devon Saturdays with Santa in the Devon Rotunda features Santa, Mrs. Claus, arts & crafts, live holiday music & more.

Complimentary pictures with Santa with own camera. Different holiday theme each week.

10am-4pm. www.downtownindecember.com.

DEC 1 • SUNDAY FREE Handmade Holidays: Vintage Jewelry at Capitol Hill Library (334 SW 26) is a gift-making workshop for parents & children.

Supplies provided. Preregister. 2-3pm. 634-6308, www.metrolibrary.org. Also held: 12/14 (Keepsake Ornament).

OKC Thunder vs. Minnesota Timberwolves at the Chesapeake Energy Arena (100 W Reno). 6pm. www.nba.com/ thunder. Other home games this month: 12/8, 13, 15, 19, 22, 29, 31.

Sand Plum Fairy Tea Party at the Nancy O’Brian Center for the Performing Arts (1809 Stubbeman, Norman) features tea party fare & visit from the Sandplum Fairy & Santa Claus before the Oklahoma Nutcracker performance. $18/person.

1pm. 364-1818, www.ticketstorm.com.

The Oklahoma Nutcracker presented by the Norman Ballet at the Nancy O’Brian Center for the Performing Arts (1809 Stubbeman, Norman) features this classic ballet with an Oklahoma twist.

Recommended for ages 3+. $20/person, $60/ family of 4. 3pm. 364-1818, www.ticketstorm.com.

DEC 1–24 Deck the Zoo at the OKC Zoo (2000 Remington) offers $1 admission for guests who bring an edible wildlife ornament made from such items as fruits, pine cones, popcorn, bagels, seeds, peanut butter, honey, etc. one ornament per person. Not valid with other discounts. 4243344, www.okczoo.com.

ember (November 29 - December 6)

DEC 2 • MONDAY FREE Movie Mondays at Harkins Theatres in Bricktown. See website for movie titles.

Free tickets must be requested online at least 5 days prior to screening. 7pm. www. downtownindecember.com. Also held: 12/9, 16, 23, 30.

DEC 2–31 Christmas Light Display at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial, Sulphur) allows visitors to drive through the Cultural Center parking lot to see a multitude of holiday lights.

6-9pm. 580-622-7130, www.chickasawculturalcenter.com.

DEC 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.

OKC Barons vs. Dallas Stars at the Cox Convention Center. $16+. 7pm. 232-4625, www. okcbarons.com. Other home games this month: 12/20, 21, 31.

Donny & Marie Christmas at Chesapeake Energy Arena is a mix of holiday songs & a nostalgic look back on their storied career. www.donnyandmarietour.com.

DEC 5 • THURSDAY Territorial Christmas Celebration at the Harn Homestead Museum (1721 N Lincoln). $3 in advance, $5 at the door, Children 3 & under are FREE. 235-4058, www. harnhomestead.com.

FREE Holiday Happenings at the Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua, Norman) features visits with Santa (photos available for purchase), crafts, live entertainment, storytime,

& more. Canned goods will be accepted for Food & Shelter, Inc. 5-8pm. 325-4712, www.samnoblemuseum.org.

FREE Holiday Lighting Ceremony at Rose State College Campus Mall (6420 SE 15, Midwest City) includes carriage rides, a lighting ceremony, children’s choir, refreshments & visit with Santa. 5:15pm. 733-7376.

DEC 5–7 OKC Philharmonic—The Christmas Show at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker) features George Dvorsky & Gwendolyn Jones in a holiday spectacular. $15+. Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm. 842-5387, www.okcphilharmonic.org.

DEC 5–8 Home for the Holidays presented by the American Spirit Dance Company at OCU (2501 N Blackwelder) features a Broadway-style Christmas holiday extravaganza. $30. ThursdayFriday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. www.ocuticketoffice.eventbrite.com.

DEC 5–14 It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play presented by TheatreOCU & Oklahoma Children’s Theatre at OCU (2501 N Blackwelder) is based on the classic American film. $8-$12. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. 208-5227, www.okcu.edu/ticketoffice.

DEC 6 • FRIDAY FREE Norman Holiday Celebration at Andrews Park in Norman features tree lighting, hot chocolate & cookies, moon bounces, musical performances & more. Complimentary photos with Santa with own camera. 5:30pm.

366-5472, www.normanfun.com.

events this

november DAILY EVENTS

Christmas in the Village at the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center (507 S 4, Enid) features lights, performances, activities & more. $5. 5-8pm. 580-237-1907, www.csrhc.org.

FREE UCO Winterglow at Old North Nigh University Center on the UCO Campus features tree lighting, holiday crafts, train rides, holiday karaoke, toy donations for a local charity, photos with Santa & more. 6-9pm. www.uco. edu/winterglow.

DEC 6–8 FREE Boys Ranch Town Drive-Thru Christmas Pageant (5100 SE 33, Edmond) is a living nativity put on by Boys Ranch Town residents, staff children & live animals depicting the life of Jesus including his birth, death & resurrection.

7-9pm. 341-3606, www.obhc.org.

DEC 7 • SATURDAY OSU Football vs. Oklahoma at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater. TBA. www. okstate.com.

FREE Mayor’s Christmas Party for Kids at the Robertson Activity Center (1200 Lakeshore, Yukon) features crafts, games & visits from Rudolph, Jinglesaurus, Frosty & Santa.

9am-noon. 350-8937, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

Wreath Making at the OKC Zoo (2000 Remington). Create & customize your own holiday wreath from plants grown on zoo grounds. For ages 16+. $20/member, $25/ nonmember. 9-11:30am. www.okczooed.com/ families.

Home for the Holidays at Gymboree Play & Music (255 34th Ave SW, Norman) features hand-made gifts & keepsakes as well as gingerbread house making. Preregister. $15.

9:30-11:30am. 307-8454.

FREE Saturdays for Kids “Old Fashioned Ornament Making” at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63) allows participants to make a special ornament for the family tree using such

(December 6 - December 8)

favorites as pinecones, decorated snowflakes & more. Preregister by noon on 12/6. 10am-noon.

478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org.

Breakfast with Santa at the Orr Family Farm (14400 S Western) features a pancake breakfast, story time & carols with Santa. Bring your camera for photos. Includes 1 train ride & carousel ride. Preregister. $12.50/person.

10am-noon. 799-3276, www.orrfamilyfarm. com. Also held: 12/14, 21.

Christmas Celebration at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial, Sulphur) features pictures with Santa, Christmas Films, Native American Miniature Ornament Class, Stomp Dance, Chickasaw Press Book Signing & Living Village Activities. FREE admission, fees required for certain activities. 10am-5pm.

580-622-7130, www.chickasawculturalcenter.com.

Drop-in Drawing at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch) features basic instruction & materials during come-and-go drawing sessions throughout the permanent collection & special exhibition galleries. FREE with paid admission.

2-4pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com.

Edmond Electric Parade of Lights in Downtown Edmond begins at Shannon Miller Park with the Mayor’s Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Ceremony, 6pm; parade, 6:45pm. 216-7671, www.edmondok.com.

DEC 7–8 OKC Train Show at the State Fairgrounds Travel & Transportation Building. $10/person.

Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. www. oklahomarailwaymuseum.org.

The Nutcracker presented by the Oklahoma Community Orchestra & the Central Oklahoma Ballet at the Yukon Fine Arts Auditorium (850 Yukon, Yukon). $12.50+.

Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. 425-1990, www.okorchestra.org.

novem

events this WEEKLY EVENTS

FREE Discovery Room programs at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua, Norman). See website for details. 325-4712, www.snomnh.ou.edu.

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 Art Moves weekdays (MondayFriday) in downtown OKC (various locations).

Performances, demonstrations, short films & discussions. Noon-1pm. 270-4892, www.artscouncilokc.com/art-moves.

FREE Skating Lessons at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36) for all skill levels. Saturdays, noon12:45pm. 605-2758, www.skategalaxyokc.com.

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.

FREE Art Adventures at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) includes handson art fun for children ages 3-5 with adult.

Tuesdays, 10:30am. 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

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 through 11/14, noon. 325-4938, www.ou.edu/fjjma 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.

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.

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. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park.

ember ONGOING EVENTS THROUGH NOV 17

THROUGH JAN 5

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.

FREE Libertad de Expresion: the Art Museum of the Americas & Cold War Politics at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (55 Elm, Norman) features works by artists promoted by the Organization of American States during the Cold War. 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

THROUGH DEC 20

Masterworks of Native American Art: A Selection from the Fred & Enid Brown Collection at the Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua, Norman) presents a selection of Native American paintings and drawings created over the past half century.

425-4712, www.samnoblemuseum.org.

FREE Ana Maria Hernando: The Illuminated Garden at Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center (3000 General Pershing) features installations, paintings, drawings and prints with a layering of natural and formal elements. 951-1000, www.oklahomacontemporary.org.

THROUGH JAN 26

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

The Art of Sport & Play at the Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua, Norman) features selected pieces of memorabilia gathered from around the world highlighting the universal power of sport. 325-4712, www.samnoblemuseum.org.

THROUGH JAN 4

THROUGH MAR 1, 2014

To Pioneer at the Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum (1400 Classen) features mixed media paintings & drawings

by Denise Duong. Opening Reception: 9/18 5-7pm. $5/person, Preregister, 523-3231, www.oklahomaheritage.com.

Untamed at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52) features works by Jennifer Cocoma Hustis exploring the mustang’s plight & behavior through art. 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org.

THROUGH DEC 31

THROUGH MAR 15, 2014 Red Dirt Dinos at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52) features animatronic dinosaurs and interactive components exploring dinosaurs that once roamed Oklahoma. FREE with museum admission. 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org.

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. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org.

How your pen can change the world FAMILY ACTIVITIES FOR CREATIVE MINDS

A

s your family prepares to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday, it is a perfect time to think about the meaning behind the holiday and what it means to give thanks. But did you know that the holiday we celebrate today almost never came to be?

Long before women in this country could even vote, a brave and tenacious woman named Sarah Hale saved Thanksgiving by writing letters— lot and lots of letters. It actually took decades of letter writing, the Civil War and five presidents to make Thanksgiving a national holiday.

Before Hale’s efforts,Thanksgiving was only celebrated in New England and each state scheduled its own date...some as early as October and others as late as January! Her advocacy for the national holiday began in 1846 and she wrote letters to five Presidents of the United States: Zachary Taylor, Millard Filmore, Franklin Pierce, James Buchanan and Abraham Lincoln. She eventually persuaded President Lincoln to establish a national holiday in 1863, where it served to bolster the nation’s spirit after the Civil War. In addition, Sarah was also the first female magazine editor in America and the composer of the popular nursery rhyme “Mary Had a Little Lamb.”

Inspired by Sarah’s story, author Laurie Halse Anderson wrote a children’s book titled ThankYou,Sarah:TheWoman Who Saved Thanksgiving.

On the last page of the book, you will find the following passage.

“Some people think that children have no power because they can’t vote.Wrong.

Children have a great deal of influence.

They can write to newspaper editors and government representatives, petition community leaders, and lobby Congress.”

So…pick up a pen and change the world, after you read the book, of course!

ACTIVITY DIRECTIONS 1.

Talk with your family about the idea of social issues and why they are important.

2.

Brainstorm together and make a list of current social issues.

3.

Identify a social cause that is important to your family.Talk about why you care about this issue.

4.

Determine who (besides you) has the power to influence change on the matter. Is it your local city council? Mayor? Governor?

Government representatives?

5.

Write a letter to them and explain your feelings about the issue and what action you would like to see for positive change.

6.

Share your letter with friends and family that might also support the cause.

7.

Ask them to help by writing letters of their own.

8.

See how your letter writing campaign can make a difference.

DID YOU KNOW? Prior to the addition of Thanksgiving, the only national holidays celebrated in the United States were Washington’s Birthday and Independence Day. With your child, research the history behind other national holidays and talk about why we celebrate those days. If your child was President, what days would he or she make a national holiday and why? What causes do they think are worthy of national celebration?

Activity 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.

THIS LEARNING ADVENTURE PROJECT IS SPONSORED BY PRIMROSE SCHOOLS. ONLINE: www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ learning-adventures.

EMAIL: info@metrofamilymagazine.com

mom gets the last laugh

ILLUSTRATION BY EMILY BALL, WWW.EMILYMGBALL.COM.

Taking “me time”... whenever I can find it

BY HEATHER DAVIS - METROFAMILY COLUMNIST

F

inally. I am finally sitting down for the day.

I’m snuggled up on my favorite seat. My contacts are out, and my glasses are on.

My feet are pulled up beside me, and I’m sporting my favorite comfy pajamas. “Me Time” at its finest. Finally.

48

// METROFAMILY MAGAZINE / OKC FAMILY FUN / NOVEMBER 2013//

This morning, I had to wake my older daughter four times. This is better than the six times I had to tell her to stop talking and go to sleep last night, but it’s about three times too many. I would let her sleep in and be tardy to school, but quite frankly, she’d gladly take that punishment just to catch a few extra zzzz’s in the morning.

I drove to play practice and picked up my My younger daughter, who wakes first-born. I swung by the softball fields and up ready to take on the world, fixed picked up my baby. About twelve hours after her own cereal. Then she discovered we all raced out the door that morning, we all we didn’t have milk, so she fried herself met up at home again. As we scarfed down our an egg, but the edges got too crispy mountains of pizza, we cussed and discussed to eat. So she made herself a peanut algebraic equations, partial butter and jelly sum algorithms, longitude, sandwich. She used latitude and insect the good china and “This morning, I had classifications. three spoons. Both to wake my older sides of the sink I sat at the kitchen were full from her table pondering the fact daughter four times. breakfast dishes. that, inside my freezer, I had

This is better than the more insects in specimen On our way to jars than food. school, we turned six times I had to tell around no less We loaded the her to stop talking and breakfast dishes in the than four times to retrieve things dishwasher and threw go to sleep last night, from home: a lunch away the dishes from but it’s about three box, the lunch our pizza fest. We fed the that belonged cats and dog. We started times too many…” in that lunch a load of laundry so that box, geography someone would have clean homework and underwear in the morning. shoes. Not any special shoes…just Okay, fine. It was me. I was completely out shoes. The lesson of the morning is of underwear. this: You must wear shoes to school.

My husband supervised tooth brushing And that was all before while I searched for clean pajamas. Kisses were 8:00am, y’all! shared, prayers were prayed, lights were turned After school, I left a meeting off and covers were tucked under still-dirty and raced to my younger daughter’s chins. school to pick her up. Then we raced “You look tired,” my husband said as I across town to pick up my older scrambled around the living room picking up daughter from the library. Heading fifteen shoes (not pairs…just shoes…they home with both daughters in tow, I weren’t matches). realized that, while I had a crockpot “You need some rest,” my life’s partner dinner planned, I hadn’t actually put said as I tossed my now-clean underwear into the dinner in the crockpot. I’m no the dryer. gourmet, that’s for sure…but I do

know that, in order for the family to eat the meal, it must be cooked.

I dropped one daughter off at her softball practice and took another daughter to play practice on my way to my second meeting. I called the pizza place.

I arrived at the meeting late to discover that I was the only one there. The meeting was actually the day before. I had mixed emotions.

On one hand, I wondered what I missed. On the other, I didn’t really care because it was one less meeting I’d have to attend.

I got a text from my husband telling me that he was taking care of dinner and had ordered pizza for us. Almost immediately after that text, I got another from the pizza joint telling me my order was ready—this was about two hours before I was actually planning to serve dinner.

“Why don’t you take some ‘Me Time,’” he suggested as I put the pizza-stained paper plates back into the trash and swatted at the cats with the broom.

“Good idea,” I sighed as I took a glass of water back to a dry and parched nine year old that was dying of thirst.

So, I am finally sitting down for the day. I’m snuggled up on my favorite seat. My contacts are out, and my glasses are on. My feet are pulled up beside me, and I’m sporting my favorite comfy pajamas. Sure, it’s 3:17am, but a momma’s gotta do what a momma’s gotta do.

FOR MORE HUMOR AND RECHARGING: ONLINE: www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ moms-recharged

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE CLINTON - WWW.HUGSKISSESANDNOT.COM

healthy families

BY STEPHANIE CLINTON - CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Holiday T cooking with kids

he holidays can be such a fun time to introduce kids to the kitchen. Between Halloween and the New Year’s Eve, there are so many fun treats and special meals to prepare. This is the perfect time for little hands to help crack eggs, mix batter and deliver treats to friends—and start making memories and traditions with your kids in the kitchen.

PART MIXING, PART MATH, PART MAGIC 50

// METROFAMILY MAGAZINE / OKC FAMILY FUN / NOVEMBER 2013//

When kids are a part of the creative cooking process they are more inclined to eat the finished product. Picky eaters who may normally turn up their nose at something new are more willing to try at least one bite if they had a hand in making it—which can be a better than any holiday gift! Also, kids who help out in the kitchen are being introduced to math without even knowing it. Fractions aren’t as scary when you’re showing your kiddo how many 1/4 cups make up a whole cup or how 1/8 of a teaspoon is half of a 1/4 teaspoon. So, as you make your holiday meals, involve your kids and watch the magic take place.

Working side by side with your children in the kitchen can also become a lesson in treating others with kindness and love. What better way to tell your neighbors Happy Thanksgiving or Merry Christmas than with a tin of cookies? This holiday tradition is even more special when kids help make and deliver the treats. Delivering cookies to neighbors, fire station or shelter is a simple and wonderful lesson in giving during a time that is so focused on receiving.

Need some easy recipes to get started? Find some of our favorite holiday treats here.

PUMPKIN JUICE When it comes to holiday food you can’t go wrong with pumpkin. Pumpkin pie is a must at holiday meals, but what about creating something a little different this year using this holiday staple? Your children will be thrilled

to make this festive drink, inspired by the Harry Potter book series.This juice is the perfect beverage for a Harry Potter-themed party, class Halloween party or to serve to Thanksgiving guests who are getting anxious for the bird to finish cooking.This recipe has a lot of ingredients…but Professor Snape wouldn’t have it any other way.

Ingredients: I cup pumpkin puree 2 cups pineapple juice 2 cups apple cider 1/4 cup coffee-mate pumpkin spice creamer 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 maple extract 1/4 teaspoon garam masala spice 2 tablespoons real maple syrup 1 tablespoon agave nectar or honey I can whipped cream Caramel syrup Instructions: Combine all ingredients (except whipped cream and caramel syrup) in a blender. Blend until frothy. Serve in small cups, top with whipped cream and drizzle with caramel syrup. Makes approximately10 6 oz. servings.

PUMPKIN SPICE UPSIDE DOWN CAKE This cake is great for three reasons. It’s super easy to make, you get to flip it upside down at the end of the process and it’s a perfect Thanksgiving dessert.

Ingredients: 1 box spice cake mix 1 (20 oz.) can crushed pineapple (drained, juice reserved) 1/2 cup pineapple juice 3 eggs brown sugar Instructions: Combine cake mix, pineapple juice and eggs in a large bowl. Stir until combined. Spray a spring form pan or bunt pan with non-stick cooking spray. Sprinkle brown sugar all over the bottom of the pan. Spread crushed pineapple on top

of brown sugar. Pour in cake batter and spread evenly in pan. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in cake comes out clean. (If using a spring form pan, place pan on a rimmed baking sheet.) Allow to cool for 10 minutes then place a cake plate on top of the pan, hold the plate and pan together and flip.

Take pan off of cake and the golden pineapple is shining on top.

CRANBERRY OATMEAL COOKIES These delectable cookies are fun to make, delightful to eat—and even better when packaged and given to a friend, neighbor or family member.

Package them in a decorative tin or create a cute label for a plastic bag and make someone’s holiday a little merrier. Makes about 4 dozen.

Ingredients: 1 cup (or one stick) butter flavored shortening 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar 1/2 cup granulated sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla 1 cup flour 1/2 cup almond flour 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp. salt 3 cups uncooked oatmeal oats (quick cook oats) 5 oz. package of dried cranberries 6 oz. white chocolate chips or white morsels Instructions: Heat oven to 350. In a small bowl combine flours, baking soda, cinnamon and salt. In a large bowl beat shortening and sugars with an electric mixer until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla; beat well. Add flour mixture and mix well. Stir in oats, cranberries and white morsels. Drop dough in rounded spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes.Allow cookies to slightly cool before transferring them to a wire rack or plate.

Whether you are cooking for a small mewal or a huge holiday get-together, remember that time spent with your kids in the kitchen is creating priceless holiday memories. So, whether you are focusing on the mixing, the measuring or the math, it is sure to be pure magic. Happy Holidays!

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