FAMILY Magazine February 2014

February 2014 • Moms Just Know • Free

PARENTIN G MEDIA AS SOCIATIO

N

2013 Silv Award W er inner Edito rial an Awards Co d Design mpetition

Heart

Awareness Month:

Annika’s Story

Embracing Your Post-Partum Body Dear Mom,

Don’t Do It All

The Great Northwest Indiana

Candy Crawl Is Your Child

Ready for

Daycare Special Supplement inside!

4 201

Serving: Granger • Mishawaka • Elkhart • South Bend • Goshen • Niles Edwardsburg • Middlebury & Surrounding Communities

HOW IT WORKS:

This online voting contest will determine who has the Cutest Kid in Michiana in four different age categories. Contestants will simply upload their child’s picture during the first week (submission period). After the submission period is over, voters can vote on their image of choice up to five times per day during the one-week voting period.

Age group categories to submit photos:

• 6-11 months* • 1-3 years old • 4-6 years old • 7-10 years old

*Child must be at least 6 months of age by 2/3/14 to enter.

After the one-week voting period for the Cutest Kid in Michiana, the child in each age group category with the most votes will be awarded with being featured on a FAMILY Magazine cover!

The second and third place winners will receive a gift pack from the participating sponsors and supporters and will have their photos printed in the same issue as the first place cover winner for that age group.

2014 Submission Dates: February 3rd - February 7th at Noon

2014 Voting Dates:

February 7th at Noon - February 14th at Noon

2014 www.MichianaMom.com Sponsored by...

IN THE NEXT ISSUE:

Contributors

Staycations

President & Publisher: Betsy Tavernier

Betsy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

If you would like your business and/or service to be included in the next issue, call The FAMILY Magazines at 574.387.5420 to reserve your space. Space is limited.

Managing Editor: Jessica Haviland

Jessy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

Creative marketing director: Jena Bontrager Jena@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

FAMILY Calendar of Events has moved online!

Scan the QR Code to the right to get connected to family events in Michiana! Fast, easy and convenient, visit MichianaMom.com for your out on the town searches.

Marketing Coordinator: Jill Ludwick Jill@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN Manager: Zuzanna Zmud

Zuzanna@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Katie Brenneman

Katie@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

Medical Editor: S. Jesse Hsieh, M.D. Distribution Manager: Mike Trentacosti Kevin Reynolds

on the cover:

Bayleigh Rae, Goshen Photo:

Shepard Swim School & Underwater Photography, Elkhart OUTFIT:

Family Magazines of Michiana would love to hear from you! Please submit press releases, event information and inquiries to: info@Michianafamilymagazine.com The FAMILY Magazines 1233 E. University Drive Granger, IN 46530 PH: 574.387.5420 • FX: 574.217.4700 www.michianafamilymagazine.com

i play. Ultimate Swim Diaper

The FAMILY Magazines February 2014 Established in 2006.

All rights reserved.

Permission from the publisher is required for any reproduction or reprint of this publication.

Read The FAMILY Magazines online each month!

Go to www.MichianaFamilyMagazine.com and flip the pages, cover-to-cover the organic and green way!

Volume 8: Number 2

Keep an eye out on our Facebook page for your chance to win this DVD and book!

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2013 Silver Award Winner

2013 Gold Award Winner

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General Excellence

Editorial and Design Awards Competition

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Find the Hidden Acorn!

For your enjoyment and fun!

The FAMILY Magazine is a proud member of PMA

Please use the information compiled by Michiana Family Magazines for your research. Michiana Family Magazines recommends that parents and families interview each business or organization to make sure that it is safe and a good fit for your family. The information presented here and provided by Michiana Family Magazines is for informational purposes only and although every effort has been made to present accurate information, Michiana Family Magazines does not, in any way, accept responsibility for the accuracy of or consequences from the use of this information and/or for the businesses and organizations presented herein. We urge all parents and families to confirm any information given herein through additional research. The views and opinions expressed by the writers, event organizers and advertisers do not necessarily represent those of Michiana Family Magazines LLC, its officers, editors, staff or contributors.

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F RO M T H E P U B L I S H E R

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Things

We Learned Making

The February Issue

Photography: Classic image photography Makeup: Camellia Maalouf, Camellia Cosmetics Granger

1.

Moms can’t do it all. So stop trying to be supermom and accept that you can’t do a million things at one time. Read our Dear Mom column on page 20 on how to let go of being “perfect.”

Things We (at FAMILY)

Love

Right Now!

1. New England Clam Chowder

2. A Full Week of School!

3. Birthdays 4. Heart-Shaped Cookies 5. Board Game Nights 6. W2s 7. Car Washes 8. Summer Camp Fair 2014

2.

Daycare may or may not be necessary for your child. Find our article on page 28 to learn if your child, or even you, are ready for daycare.

9. Baby/Toddler Swim

3.

Kids summer camp fair is just around the corner. Find that section in our magazine on page 35.

Lessons

10. Basketball 11. Winter Pedicures

4.

Embrace your post-partum body. Losing weight after pregnancy can be very discouraging. Learn to love what your body has created and read page 26 to not let your reflective image bring you down.

12. Hot Tea 13. Duvet Covers

6.

February is Heart Awareness Month. Read page 22 on how a mom lost her newborn child to a heart condition and what life lesson she found in the end.

5.

Building snow forts can make this winter fun. Go to page 14 to read how a dad taught his twoyear-old how to build a quinzee.

7.

An interactive Valentine is a perfect gift from your kids. Learn how to make one of these valentines on page 18.

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4Keeps

About the artist Casey Kiel lives in Nappanee with her husband Matt and their four children – Mason, Caleah, Makinzie and Caden – who are the inspiration for this comic. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Art Education and works as a Graphic Designer for the University of Notre Dame and as a freelance artist.

By Casey Kiel

Page of Hearts

Like '4Keeps' on Facebook or visit CaseyKiel.com

Testimonials From Our Readers “I may not be a mom but I still enjoy reading the articles in FAMILY Magazine because they can relate to dads as well.”

“I love the articles that I can relate to and the monthly calendar of events.”

– Michelle

– Dave

“FAMILY Magazine gives me great ideas to have some fun with my children!”

– Erika We'd LOVE to hear from you! contact: The FAMILY Magazines

jessy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

“I love reading the little tidbits in FAMILY Magazine. Some of them are really funny and can relate to any mom out there.”

– Lisa THE

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the FAMILY magazine table

Of

contents

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16 Live your best 4

Seven Things We Learned Making This Issue

5

4Keeps Comic

5

Reader Testimonials

8 Timeline 24 The FAMILY Monthly Calendar

Book reviews

12 Cookies: Bite-sized Life Lessons

Reviewed By: Mishawaka Public Library

12 Pretties

Reviewed By: Robert Clark

Movie reviews

13 The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

Reviewed By: Cole Pollyea

Family craft

18 Interactive Valentines

By: Jill Lebbin

Family recipe

46 Healthy Chocolate Candy

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By: Jeannine Eubanks

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18

ATHLETIC DEVELOPMENT FOR ALL SPORTS

Special section

Students

28 Is Your Child Ready For Daycare

By: David Palmer

Progressive

30 Preschool Already?

Small

By: Kristine Smith

Family fun

By: Evie Kirkwood

16 The Great Northwest Indiana Candy Crawl

By: Michelle Shirk

program from recreation to competition

class sizes

Birthday

14 Shelters In Snow

as young as 1 1/2 years old

parties

Martial

Arts

Zumba

(kids/adults)

35

3390 N. HOME STREET  MISHAWAKA  574.256.0502  GYMMICHIANA.COM

Family kids

22 Heart Awareness Month: Annika’s Story

By: Meagan Church

Family pregnancy

26 Embrace Your Post-Partum Body

By: Noelle Elliott

Mommy and Daddy 20 Dear Mom, Don’t Do It All

By: Meagan Church

32 DIY Cleaners: Essential Products To Have In Your Home

By: Lara West

Michiana Summer CampFair 2014

35 Check out local summer kcamps for your kids!

EARLY CHILDHOOD

OPEN HOUSE

2014-2015 SCHOOL YEAR February 16, 3-5 p.m. or March 16, 3-5 p.m.

The Early Learning Center is a faith-based, licensed preschool in Granger, Indiana that provides quality care and education for young children. Our spaces, both indoor and outdoor, are designed to be safe and inspire wonder in our children. All children are paired with skilled, loving teachers to develop their fullest potential. Classes include Art, Spanish, Music, Gardening and more. Open for ages 2.5-Kindergarten.

Come to an open house to see what’s waiting for your child.

s February 17

Open registration begin

35 Early Learning Center . 630 E. University Drive . Granger, IN 46530 574.243.2025 . gcclearningcenter.com THE

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The FAMILY Month 7

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Olympics Begin

10

Valentine's Day

Monthly Meditation Yoga, Elkhart Environmental Center, 5:30 p.m.

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Fun Valentine’s Gift Ideas For Kids To Make: 1. Make a Card: Handmade Valentine’s Day cards made by your children are always a great gift.

4. Photo with Decorated Frame: Have your children pick out the photo they want of themselves.

Then, your children can decorate a frame of their choice.

2. Breakfast in Bed: Have your children help you make breakfast in the morning and give Dad breakfast in bed!

3. Make Heart Shaped Cookies: Your children can help you make heart shaped cookies and decorate the cookies after they are cooled.

Photo Courtesy: Fanpop.com

Best Disney Valentine’s Day 5. Make a T-Shirt: Buy a white t-shirt and different colors of paint for shirts. Buy fun shaped sponges and have your children create a t-shirt!

Movies: 1. Lady and the Tramp 2. Beauty and the Beast 3. Enchanted 4. The Little Mermaid

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Calendar

28

21

National Tooth Fairy Day Michiana Women’s Show, Century Center, 5-9 p.m.

Beauty and the Beast, South Bend Civic Theatre

27

Tell a Fairy Tale Day

17

22

Random Acts of Kindness Day

1

2014 Elkhart County Go Red For Women LifeStyle Affair

The Little White Dress…

Dream Weddings & Events on a Budget 10:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Windsor Park Conference Center

Walking the Dog Day

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“

To be happy with a man you must understand him a lot and love him a little.

To be happy with a woman you must love her a lot and not try to understand her at all.”

– Helen Rowland

Easy to Make Chocolate Cherry Fudge

Funny Valentine’s Day Kid Quotes: “I think you’re supposed to get shot with an arrow or something but the rest of it isn’t supposed to be painful.” ~ Manuel, Age 8

“On the first date, they just tell each other lies and that usually gets them interested enough to go on a second date.” ~ Mike, Age 10

“Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell each other.” ~ Ava, Age 9

Ingredients: 8 Ounces of Dark Chocolate, Chopped 1 (14 Ounce) Can Sweetened Condense Milk 1 Cup Walnuts, Chopped 16 Maraschino Cherries with Stems Directions: First, line an 8 inch baking square with parchment paper.

Melt chocolate and condense milk in the microwave on medium-high for four minutes. Stir to combine mixture and then add the walnuts. Pour the mixture into the baking square.

Lightly score the top of the fudge with a knife to make a square pattern. Gently place a cherry into each center of a square. Refrigerate until the mixture is set. Enjoy!

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Preparing Your Child To Ski Expand their cold weather activities to make winter fun!

By: Jessica Haviland

Want to take the family to a local ski resort but worried that the youngest ones won’t have that much fun? After some time and practice, they can master the slopes and join in on the family fun!

Make sure you have the proper ski clothes.

They will need a heavy winter jacket, snow bibs, long underwear, two pairs of socks, scarf, insulated gloves or mittens and an extra layer of clothes. It’s always best to have them dress extra warm for a long day out in the cold.

Don’t buy them new ski equipment. When you

get to your ski resort, have an employee help you get your child fitted for the proper boots and skis. For their safety, you will also want to rent a helmet and purchase goggles.

Invest in ski lessons with a certified instructor. Even though you already know how to

ski, having a ski instructor teach your child will be more beneficial. Check with your ski resort on what their minimum age is for skiing and how to register for lessons.

Pack a “mommy” bag with goodies. Bring a

small bag or backpack with you when your family takes a ski trip. Bring bottled water, snacks, hand warmers, sun glasses, chapstick, lotion, extra gloves, extra body wear and sunblock.

s

Slips&Slope Keeping your kids active during the winter months isn't as challenging as you may think. Ice skating, skiing, snowboarding and ice hockey is just a few fun activities that are not only fun for kids but for the adults as well!

Try Hockey & Skating at ND! On March 1st, the Compton Family Ice Arena has a Free Try Hockey event for kids. We also offer public skate times each weekend for families to enjoy.

Visit our website for more information!

Compton Family Ice Arena, Notre Dame, IN – see website for pricing comptonice.nd.edu

Five Pines

Five Pines features a 400-ft lighted tubing hill with five runs! Staff-supervised, fun atmosphere, hill games throughout the weekend. Cross-country skiing available on groomed trails with hills, woods and open fields. Equipment provided.

Five Pines Ministries • Berrien Center, MI www.FivePines.org

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FAMILY book review

“Cookies: Bite-Size Life Lessons” Written by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Illustrated by Jane Dyer Submitted by Anne Britton, Children’s Services Library Assistant Bittersweet Branch of the Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library

Cooperation, respect, trust and compassion are all important concepts to learn about living in a community with others. Imagine sharing these attributes with your child.

Fair means, “You get a bite, I get a bite, you get a big bite, I get a big bite.” Unfair means, “You get a bite and now I get the rest.” Greedy means taking all the cookies for one self: “Hee, Hee, Hee, Yum, Yum, Yum”. Generous means offering some to others. “Please take one. You too. Anyone else want a cookie?”

Fair, unfair, greedy and generous are not words we might use in everyday life with young children but are among the concepts included in the book “Cookies: Bite-Size Life Lessons” by Amy Krouse Rosenthal. This is a marvelous picture book to share with your child that uses cookies to hold their attention and teach these valuable life lessons of good character traits. Beautifully illustrated by Jane Dyer, each illustration adds to the lessons on each page by using cookies, children, a grandma and animals to get the point across.

For younger children, this book is a great introduction to using good manners while for older children, it can be used as a great discussion starter about morals and using these attributes to become a responsible member in our society. “Cookies” is a book that gently reminds us how we should relate to others.

Pretties

By Scott Westerfeld

Submitted by: Robert Clark

In Pretties by Scott Westerfeld, a teenage girl is in a world where everything revolves around beauty. When you are born, you are considered ugly but when you turn sixteen you get an operation to transform into a pretty.

These topics are focused on in the first book. Now though, the main character, Tally, is aware of the more malevolent side of the operation. This is the fact that you are bestowed with lesions in your brain and your thoughts are changed.

The characters are a reason that this novel is so exquisitely written. The main character is Tally Youngblood.

She could be described as rebellious, steadfast and a protagonist. Another character is Zane, who is a victim of Dr. Cable, “pretty” and very outgoing. The antagonist in the novel is Dr. Cable, who is strong, deceptive and cunning. Also, the setting in this novel is very detailed. Pretties is a dystopian novel, meaning it is set in the future. The areas of this universe Westerfeld created are set in New Pretty Town, a bustling city, and the New Smoke, where rebels hide from law enforcement.

The reason this novel is so powerful is because of the plot and theme. The story begins as Tally is turned pretty but her life spirals out of control when she finds a note that she wrote as an ugly. This note reads that there is a cure to the brain lesions from the operation. Tally takes the pills with her friend Zane. Due to, Dr. Cable begins spying on the rebels. This sends the two on an intense mission to escape the city.

The end of the book was an extreme cliffhanger and readers will be yearning for more. The theme of the novel is the most important part. I really enjoyed the positive messages. The theme is that beauty is not as important as how you act. The main character has a dream about a princess who was trapped in a tower, but too tired of looking at herself in a mirror, so she decided to escape. This conveys the theme and is constantly being referenced.

In conclusion, I would definitely recommend this novel to teenagers for several reasons. Critically, this novel has an encompassing plot which is very fast paced and full of action, though one might not expect it. In addition, the book Pretties has a thoroughly detailed setting and cast of characters. The most important feature of the book is the theme which influences readers with positive messages about beauty.

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Robert Clark, 13, lives in Edwardsburg, Michigan where he attends Edwardsburg Middle School. Robert enjoys the performing arts, especially theater, and he races motocross competitively. He lives with his mom, dad, twin brother Michael and a variety of pets that include a sheepdog and chickens.

FAMILY movie review

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty Review

By Cole Pollyea

I

’ve endured years of watching Ben Stiller on the big screen. I’ve chuckled at his decent romantic comedies, I’ve enjoyed his voice work in animated films and I’ve winced at the ones that needed work, but “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” is his first movie that blew me out of my seat. To people who haven’t seen this motion picture, it is, understandably, nearly impossible to fathom the beauty of what inhabits the silver screen.

Stiller made a movie that is utterly genuine.

As an audience member, I haven’t been moved by the honesty of people and their actions as greatly as I was here since I saw “Silver Linings Playbook.”

In “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty”, Walter is a humbled Life Magazine worker that faces a generational difficulty when a young hotshot comes in, takes control and transforms the company into an online program. This results in the firing of many devoted, “old-fashioned” employees. Walter’s job, for the last print issue of Life, is to find a missing negative (photo) that would prevail as the cover photo. He embarks upon a journey, a real one that allows him to break free of his obsessive daydreams (to which he has fallen subject to over the course of his life.)

Along with a simple, yet intricate screenplay and astounding visuals, Ben Stiller is what makes this film so candid.

His character is so believable because it feels like he’s effortlessly playing himself on screen. In short, he comes off as a veteran actor, capable of encasing any role and making it as personable as possible.

As a director, “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” is, for the most part, a job well done. Though there is a sense of unsteadiness in the mood of the film as it progresses and it feels like he hasn’t quite identified what makes his style of shooting his own. In a 114 minute vehicle, there is a large amount of visionary techniques that aren’t exercised to their fullest potential.

Moreover, despite this, “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” clocks in as the third best 2013 movie of the year for me. Taking in all of what it has to offer: mesmerizing cinematography, an incredible story of self-discovery and real-world encounters, exceptional performances and an overall highly thought-provoking film, it’s fair to say Cole's Rating: that this exquisite, brilliant piece of art is the strongest chapter in Stiller’s book thus far.

(3½ out of 4)

My name is Cole Pollyea and I’m 15-years-old. I attend Penn High School where I am on the swim, tennis and lacrosse team. I’m a film aficionado, passionate about viewing and learning every last detail of what makes the art of film so exquisite.

March 28 - April 13 • 2014

403 N. Main • Downtown South Bend • sbct.org

For tickets, call 574-234-1112 or order online at SBCT.org.

SBCT The WIZ FamilyMag.indd 1

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FAMILY fun

Shelters

In Snow By: Evie Kirkwood

Snuggling

by the heat duct in your living room might be your way of keeping warm on a frosty evening but Curt Holsinger of Sanford, Michigan, and his two-year-old son Noah, spent some toasty time in a quinzee this winter. “He probably thinks every kid spends their second birthday in a pile of snow,” laughs Curt.

Pronounced “kwin-zee,” the structure requires a little sweat and the better part of a day to build, so some say it warms you twice, once during construction and again nestled inside. Its structural warmth comes from the remarkable insulating qualities of air and snow.

You need a fairly flat location, snow shovels and a couple people to dig. About any type of snow will work, as long as there is enough to shovel it into a pile about six feet wide and six feet high.

Curt has been making, and sleeping in, quinzees since he was a teenager. His snow construction ramped up during his last year of college, though, when he decided he would spend an entire semester sleeping outside; quite an accomplishment when you consider Curt attended Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula.

Some nights he was deep in the woods but other nights he was right outside the house he rented. “The hardest part was getting out of the warm sleeping bag in the morning and running 15 feet to the back door of the house!” he jokes.

Why did Curt build a quinzee for two-year-old Noah? Because there was plenty of snow and Curt is committed to giving his sons, including six-week-old Elijah, plenty of outdoor experiences. Both boys spent time in a canoe with dad when they were less than twoweeks-old. Curt learned to instill the love of the outdoors in children from his father. “He always had all four of us kids outside, all the time, regardless of the weather,” he says.

Winter Project: Build a Family Snow Castle For a tamer “snow build,” try a snow castle. Similar to sand castles, they can be quite fanciful and all ages can help with construction.

your imagination! Build a tower from four buckets of snow topped with three more buckets and a smaller block on top, for example.

Gather up containers of various sizes to use as molds. Five-gallon storage totes, plastic buckets and ice cream pails are all good choices.

Try packing snow in crevices and smoothing the walls with your hands or leave the blocks with a rough cut look.

Carve out details with a small hand trowel.

Make little snowballs to use as finials.

Insert twigs for rustic railings. Then stand back and admire your newly built snow castle with the kids!

Pack the molds with heavy snow then turn out the blocks. Large blocks will form the base; smaller blocks can stack on top. Use

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Build it!

Some builders start by stomping out the diameter of their floor, then stomping on the snow within that circle. Shoveling snow on top of the “floor” is the next step. Once the mound is complete, it’s time to let it rest – ideally up to three hours for the snow to “sinter.” That’s the process where the snow particles bond to each other. This allows you to make a quinzee from about any type of snow. “Even the fluffy stuff,” says Curt.

More digging!

After sintering, it’s time to hollow out the inside. Walls of a quinzee are six to 12-inches thick. There’s lots of snow to remove and you might spend as long as two hours digging your snow back out.

Elaborate quinzees incorporate low level shelves for candles and raised sleeping platforms. Entrance holes are usually just big enough to crawl through. A ventilation hole near the top provides fresh air.

Small quinzees warm up faster than large ones and temperatures inside Curt and Noah’s shelter reached a balmy 48 degrees, with three candles to provide heat. Candle heat glazes the inside, adding stability to the structure. However, Curt cautions that temperatures just above freezing are more sustainable for the long term integrity of the shelter. He also adds that during construction quinzees occasionally collapse, so kids should not crawl inside until it is fully dug out and glazed inside.

Allow enough time for sintering and have another adult nearby while you dig out the inside. Dig out the full height of the ceiling as you go; that limits the amount of snow that will pile on you if it caves in before you are done, he suggests.

Curt says Noah was cautious at first but then loved snuggling inside his birthday quinzee. Like making a tent from blankets in the living room, kids feel content in small spaces and spending time with dad adds to the fun.

Join Us for the 24th Annual Michiana Women's Show Purchase Tickets Online www.sunny1015.com | www.oldies943fm.com

Friday, February 28th, 2014 5-9pm Saturday, March 1st, 2014 9am-6pm at the Century Center Local vendors will have products and services for you to check out at the show!

Evelyn Kirkwood is Director of St. Joseph County Parks in Indiana and host of Outdoor Elements, which is broadcast Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 5:30 pm on WNIT Public Television.

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FAMILY fun

By: Michelle L. Shirk, J.D.

The Great Northwest Indiana

Candy Crawl

F

ebruary is quite possibly the sweetest month of the year. If you’re a candy lover, don’t just wait around for a sweetheart to bring you truffles or turtles. Instead, get your sugar fix at one of the great Northwest Indiana candy stores listed below. If you’re truly crazy about chocolate, take a weekend road trip and sample them all!

The itinerary below progresses generally in a western direction and takes a little less than three hours of driving time to complete. Your trip home should be much quicker, although, we can’t guarantee you won’t be suffering from a bit of sugar overload by then. Happy Valentine’s Day!

1. Kilwins Chocolates www.kilwins.com/stjoseph 217 State Street, St. Joseph, MI 48095 Why You Should Go: Kilwins greets visitors with a delicious aroma and a wide variety of sweet treats ranging from ice cream to caramel apples to handmade chocolate candy. There are many Kilwins franchises throughout the U.S. but we like the St. Joseph branch for its beach town vibe. Hours vary according to the season, so call ahead before you make a special trip.

Must Eat Sweet: Kilwins is all about the rich, creamy Mackinac Island fudge. Choose from flavors like Sea Salt Carmel, Turtle and Chocolate Peanut Butter. Can’t decide? Ask for a free taste at the counter.

2. Wakarusa Dime Store www.jumbojellybeans.com 340 West Cleveland Road, Granger, IN 46530 Why You Should Go: Wakarusa Dime Store’s Granger location offers a little bit of everything. Adults will enjoy browsing the extensive selection of nostalgic candy (think Pez, Fun Dip and Turkish Taffy) while kids go crazy filling a bag with 50 different flavors of saltwater taffy.

Prices are surprisingly reasonable, meaning patrons can leave with a good-sized bag of candy for under $10.00. Looking for a truly immersive candy experience? The Granger store hosts games of “Lifesize Candy Land” on the weekends.

Must Eat Sweet: As the store’s web address suggests, the Wakarusa Dime Store is famous for its Jumbo Jelly Beans, available in fifteen different flavors. It will probably only take a couple of these oversized treats to satisfy your sweet tooth!

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3. South Bend Chocolate Café

www.sbchocolate.com 3300 West Sample Street, South Bend, IN 46619 Why You Should Go: If you’ve lived in the Michiana area for any length of time, you’ve probably tasted South Bend Chocolate Company’s wares at some point. Did you know your family can enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the company and its candy-making process? The basic tour is free, while the 45-minute “Inside Scoop” tour costs $4.00 for adults and $1.00 for children. Try to schedule your visit for a time when the factory’s machines are in operation.

Must Eat Sweet: Gourmet chocolate tastes extra delicious when purchased at a discount. The factory contains an outlet store selling slightly imperfect candy at lowered prices. Those who take the enhanced version of the tour receive an additional 10% discount.

4. Little Chocolates

916 First Street, La Porte, IN 46350 Why You Should Go: This modestly sized shop offers fresh and delicious handcrafted chocolates filled with caramel, cream and ganache. If you’re looking for a special occasion gift, be sure to place your order well ahead of time, as Little Chocolates is quite popular among locals.

Must Eat Sweet: You can’t go wrong with anything Little Chocolates makes but the caramel treats in particular are second to none. Fill a box with mouthwatering turtles and challenge yourself not to eat them all during your drive home!

5. Fannie May Fine Chocolates

www.fanniemay.com 102 West US 20, Michigan City, IN 46360 Why You Should Go: Fannie May is a nearly a 100-years-old candy company with Chicago roots. While the Michigan City store temporarily closed down for a short period, it is happily back to serving sweet treats from its charming red and white striped storefront. Customers can opt for old standbys like Trinidads and Pixies or select edgier flavors from the newer Artisan line.

Double Shot Espresso or Vanilla Cake. The store also puts together some great-looking seasonal gift baskets.

Must Eat Sweet: While Fannie May is probably best known for its chocolates, the cooler full of ice cream in the back corner may just be this store’s best kept secret.

The Mint Meltaway flavor is a delicious, refreshing and relatively inexpensive way for patrons to experience one of the company’s signature tastes.

6. Albanese Candy Factory Outlet

www.albaneseconfections.com 5441 East Lincoln Highway, Merrillville, IN 46410 Why You Should Go: Albanese makes and sells gummy bears, worms, butterflies, rings and more in every color of the rainbow. A wide selection of wrapped modern and nostalgic candy is also available. An Albanese visit offers a high fun factor thanks to a chocolate waterfall and windows overlooking the factory floor. Even Santa and the Easter Bunny pay seasonal visits to this candy wonderland! If you can’t make it out to the store, Albanese makes a generous selection of its products available online.

Must Eat Sweet: You can’t leave Albanese without a bag of gummy bears. Ask for a mix that includes Red Raspberry, Poppin Pineapple and Pink Grapefruit in honor of Valentine’s Day, or choose the multi-colored assortment if you’d prefer to sample many different flavors.

Michelle Shirk is a longtime resident of Northwest Indiana and proud graduate of the University of Notre Dame Law School. She loves writing about family, travel and holiday/ seasonal events.

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FAMILY MAGAZINE | february 2014

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FAMILY craft

By: Jill Lebbin

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FAMILY MAGAZINE | february 2014

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Jill Lebbin is a wife, mother, craft fanatic and DIY blogger at www.EveryDayisanOccasion.com. She and her husband Marcel have been married for five years and love living in Granger with their two spunky kids, Marcel Jr. and Lilly.

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FAMILY MAGAZINE | february 2014

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DEAR mom

Dear Mom,

Don’t Do It All By: Meagan Church

Dear Mom, Has anyone ever asked you how you “do it all?” Has anyone ever looked at your life and wondered how, with only 24 hours in a day, you manage to get it all done?

I know, you probably laugh at the notion that you in any way come close to doing it “all.” Don’t those people see the ever-growing mental to-do list? Don’t they know you’ve had a load of laundry sitting in the dryer for a few days? And that you’ve tumbled it a few times with the intention of folding it before bed? Don’t they know it has been, well, longer than you’d like to admit since you made it to the gym? Don’t they know that you bought store-made treats for your child’s last birthday party?

No, they don’t know. Even if they did, that’s okay because the truth is, you can’t do it all. No one can do it all. Try as we might, it just isn’t possible.

And those should be words of comfort for you.

In today’s world, we often feel that we must have the picture perfect family, land the dream job, maintain a Good Housekeeping-worthy home, cook a five-course meal (that everyone enjoys) each night, pursue hobbies, perfect your short game, run 5Ks for a cause and always look good doing it. I don’t know about you, but I’m tired just reading that statement.

That’s why I encourage you to choose to not live your life as the jack-of-all-trades and master of none. You cannot do it all, nor should you even attempt to. I know you have good intentions behind it all but sometimes we need to practice saying “no” a bit more often.

Now, I realize there are plenty of things on your task list that are non-negotiables. Yes, the family does need to eat and clothes do need to be washed (until some company invents disposable clothing). But, there are things on that list that don’t have to be done. Like your desire to take up knitting. Sure, it would be nice to take a skein of yarn and magically knot it into a work of art. Yes, you might get some warm fuzzies from the experience but let that go. Is adding one more thing to your already busy schedule really worth a few warm fuzzies? After all, have you ever heard of Etsy? Why craft your own when there are plenty of artisans willing to sell you their hand-made work?

Consider this: our children are watching. Shoot, with all of their practices, play dates and clubs, our children are unknowing co-conspirators here. Instead of teaching by 20

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FAMILY MAGAZINE | february 2014

example that you are capable of doing it all (which you are not), teach them to set priorities. Teach them to make decisions.

Teach them that there are consequences to their decisions. In other words, teach them that by choosing one thing, they choose to not do other things. Instead of teaching them to make room for everything, consider how much more they would benefit if they learned to discern and to choose. How much more prepared for adulthood and the workforce would they be if they understood that not everything can be accomplished?

Instead of doing it all, choose to do less. And, tout your decision to your friends. Tweet about kicking back on the couch instead of lamenting your busy weekend schedule.

Instagram your ankles crossed in the hammock instead of that Pinterest project you squeezed into your weekend agenda.

Start from the very beginning capturing all the special moments of your baby growing up.

Embrace less and breathe more. Be the master of your priorities. Focus on what truly matters and let the rest fall by the way side.

Forget about being the Jack-of-all-trades. Let’s face it, Jack is probably a totally stressed out guy. We don’t want to be like him, right?

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21

FAMILY kids

Heart

Awareness Month:

Annika’s Story By: Meagan Church

It was a routine ultrasound during a routine

pregnancy when Evan and Kristina Horner’s lives were forever changed.

“The entire pregnancy I looked forward to mid-August when I finally got to have an ultrasound. We didn’t find out the sex when I was pregnant with Grant. But, I knew we would with baby number two and I had Evan on board.”

Evan, Kristina and Grant, along with Kristina’s mom and sister, sat in the waiting room, excited to catch the first glimpse of the baby. “I’m not sure why, but I wasn’t only excited, I was nervous,” Kristina recalled. “We waited and waited.”

After about an hour, the family was called back to the room and the ultrasound began. “We were all smiling ear-to-ear, waiting to hear those three special words. ‘It’s a girl!’ the tech informed us. Then everyone left the room, while I waited for the doctor to tell me ‘she’s perfect.’”

But when the doctor returned, she informed Kristina that something did not look right with the baby’s heart and that she was being referred to a specialist. “My eyes filled with tears. I was so scared. My body ached, I felt nauseated and I wanted to tell them they were wrong. The fact that we knew something was probably wrong but we didn’t know exactly what, made things that much worse. I couldn’t focus on anything. I felt sick. I wanted answers but I feared the unknown.”

After a series of tests, scans and specialists, the family learned that their little girl had multiple congenital heart defects. As a result, Kristina would have to deliver the baby in Indianapolis, so she could be taken to Riley Children’s Hospital immediately after birth.

“We are better people and better parents because of her.”

“Finally, the day had come when I was going to meet my baby girl, the daughter I had longed for,” Kristina said. “I became so nervous but excited to meet my beautiful girl. I prayed, ‘Lord, please don’t let anything happen to her.’”

After a fairly routine delivery, Annika Noelle was born on December 15, 2010, at 8:05 p.m. “The sound of her healthy scream made us all cry. It was unexpected. It filled us full of promises and hope,” Kristina said. “I could not believe how beautiful she was. I just knew that she was going to be okay.”

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Before Annika was born, the doctor had agreed to give Annika and Kristina a short amount of skin-to-skin contact, while Evan cut the cord.

Thankfully her condition was stable enough to permit that even if it was brief. “Seconds later, doctors and nurses shuffled around us. They grabbed my baby from me just seconds after she arrived in my arms.

They wrapped her up in a sterile blue towel and took her for evaluation.

Months before delivery, I had dreaded her being ripped from my arms but when the actual time came, I was somehow okay. Maybe it was hearing her cry. Of course I wanted to sit there, stare at her, hold her and talk about how much she looked like her big brother. But, that wasn’t reality for us.”

The following days and weeks were full of ups and downs and procedures as little Annika fought for her life. It turned out that Annika had more heart defects than they had previously thought. “We knew that she would need several surgeries and her coloring would be blue/gray due to low oxygen saturations but we were willing to battle this out with her, forever by her side. As the days went by, she began to do worse. Her little heart was doing all it could.”

The doctors soon decided that Annika needed to be placed on a heart and lung bypass device called ECMO. “I was so scared. The doctors informed me that ECMO would give her heart, lungs and kidneys a break until she was able to get her open-heart surgery. And, so, she became ECMO baby number 697.”

“Over the next few days we waited for our tiny little baby to become a

bit more stable and little stronger, so that she could have her open heart surgery,” Kristina said. “During those few days she was on ECMO I would stand by her bedside, holding her fingers, admiring her hair and sweet face, wiping her eyes and her lips, giving here Eskimo kisses and singing her lullabies.”

After more surgeries and procedures, finally on January 26, Kristina was able to dress Annika for the first time. “I was so excited! I went out and bought shirts that folded over with front buttons so that it was easy to get to her lines and dressings. On that same day we had a Care Meeting to talk about things that needed to happen in order for her to come home.”

But over the next few days, things took a turn for the worse and soon the doctors were saying words that no parent should ever have to hear: there is nothing more we can do for her.

On February 1 and only 48 days after Annika took her first breath, Kristina held her little girl in her arms and rocked her for the last time. “I didn’t want to leave; I knew that would be the last time I would hold her precious body.”

Three years later, Annika is not forgotten. Evan and Kristina have welcomed another son, Caleb, and have baby number four on the way. Because of Annika’s unique defects having no known cause, Kristina must have a special fetal echo scan during each subsequent pregnancy. The latest scan took place three years and one day after Annika’s birthday.

Thankfully the scans have shown no cause for concern. “I told Grant that the baby's heart looks perfect and is normal,” Kristina said after the most recent scan. “He exclaimed, ‘Yay!’ Does that mean we get to bring the baby home and it won’t die?’ I told him yes. I giggled and cried all at the same time.”

“They continue to keep her name The files below are of Sugar Camp Day ads they have done in the past. They loved what we did with their January family alivead forby sharing her story” tubing and would like for us to update their Sugar Camp Days ad as well! Please use some of the same elements they did but spice it up!!

It’s a journey no parent wants to travel. And even though they have been blessed with one perfectly healthy rainbow baby and another on the way, Annika is still very much a part of their family. Each December 15, the family celebrates her short, but precious life. They continue to keep her name alive by sharing her story, talking to other parents who have lost a child and by giving back to the Ronald McDonald House at Riley by collecting soda pop tabs. Kristina also donated 14 gallons of expressed breast milk to the Indiana Mother’s Milk Bank so it could nourish another infant in need.

“Losing Annika has taught us so much about ourselves and about life. We are able to appreciate things we didn’t appreciate before.

Her life continues to impact us in more ways than one. Although she is gone and we continue March 15-16, 2014 Bendix Woods County Park to grieve, because of her life, we are different off State Rd 2, New Carlisle, IN than we were before. We are better people and better parents because of her.”

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FAMILY MAGAZINE | february 2014

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2

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Groundhog Day

Michiana's Cutest Kids Submissions Begin

3

4

5

10 a.m.

Bendix Woods County Park

Winter Home School Program: Deer’s

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– John Lennon

7 Michiana's Cutest Kids Submissions End and Voting Begins

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1

10:00 a.m.

Studebaker Park Pavilion

Frosty 5K & Mitten Mile

Love is a…promise; love is a… souvenir; once “given never forgotten, never let it disappear.”

Sunday

February 2014

Super Bowl

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11 a.m.

Northern Indiana Event Center/ RV Hall of Fame,

For the Love of Art,

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6:30 p.m. on FOX Seahawks VS Broncos

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President’s Day

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5:30 p.m.

Elkhart Environmental Center

Monthly Meditation Yoga

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11

9:00 a.m.

South Bend Museum of Art

Wheel Throwing & Hand Building with Clay

Art Classes for Kids:

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Go RED For Women® Affair in Red

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5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Century Center

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Drop off kids 6:30pm - 9:30pm Elkhart & Mishawaka Locations

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15

FAMILY pregnancy

Embracing

Your Post-Partum Body By: Noelle Elliott When I experienced my first pregnancy, my mind was racing with several extreme thoughts ranging from excitement to fear. A large portion of the fear I felt was in regards to my body.

Specifically, what having a womb tenant was going to do to my stomach, thighs and even my boobs?

I was determined to do what was best for my baby and make it a top priority before my own body. You see, that is where I was wrong. It is one and the same. When you make it a priority to visit your doctor, take prenatal vitamins, eat properly and get exercise while pregnant, not only will you have a better chance at a healthy baby, you are ultimately increasing your ability to feel better about your post-partum body.

It is amazing how the view of pregnant women has changed in the past 12 years. Women are sent so many different messages. On one hand, you are encouraged to eat for two, give in to your cravings and to rest a lot. Yet, if you open any magazine or visit any celebrity website, new mothers are praised, even idolized for slimming down to their pre-pregnancy weight in just two weeks.

Since then, I have had four children and I have bounced back after each pregnancy. I didn’t say this happened within the next day or week, month or even year for that matter. It took time.

I learned with my first pregnancy that although I wanted to super size my meal didn’t mean I should. I rested when I was tired but I also made it a point to exercise.

When I finally did give birth, I felt light as a feather, well at least at first. When I viewed my deflated belly in the hospital bathroom mirror the lightness I previously felt was gone. It was replaced with a visceral disgust at my reflection. Some how I was cursing my body, the same body that just 24 hours prior had protected, nurtured and given me the best gift I have ever received, a healthy baby boy.

“When you give in to the urge to put yourself last in the family, it will undoubtedly catch up with you later.”

At that point I decided to go easy on myself. I realized that the only person judging me was myself. Nobody expected me to walk out of the hospital in my skinny jeans. I had to work very hard to lose weight. My main motivation was to fit into at least one pair of my nice work pants before returning to work. It is hard for a new mother who is exhausted to find time to shower, let alone make exercise a priority, but it is crucial and not just to fit into your pants.

Let me explain. Taking care of myself set a precedent not only for my husband but also for myself and it is still acknowledged by my family today. My health, both mental and physical, is just as important as the health and well being of our children. When you give in to the urge to put yourself last in the family, it will undoubtedly catch up with you later.

Bouncing back meant taking care of myself as a mother. Once I stopped feeling guilty and scheduled a little time for myself each day, my weight returned to a healthy range. My body

will never be the same as it was before pregnancy. It doesn’t mean that my body is any less attractive, functional or beautiful.

It is just different. It is stronger. It is powerful and by all accounts just as or sexier than before.

Establishing a routine gave me a sense of balance again. Making healthy choices when eating gave me energy and the proper nutrients to breastfeed. For some, making you a priority means taking time alone, reading a book or getting a manicure.

Whatever makes you feel good on the inside, will radiate to the outside.

Resist the pressure to be perfect. What Hollywood actresses who seem to immediately return to bikini shape avoid telling you that their career depends on it. They hire a team of people to help them achieve this. It also may include a little Photoshop. For every other woman, I doubt your livelihood is dependent on your dress size.

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I hope the trend is changing. When Kate Middleton appeared after having her son I think a lot of women rejoiced. Finally, a real representation of what a body looks like after having a baby. After several months it appears that her body has returned to normal. Every body is unique. What takes one woman a month, may take another a year. The only thing that will prolong your success is criticizing yourself.

Women spend so much energy trying to hide one of our body’s biggest accomplishments.

Love your body. Be proud. Embracing it is beautiful.

Noelle Elliott is a social media junkie, blogger, writer and career woman. She lives in South Bend with her husband, four young sons and two chocolate labs.

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FAMILY MAGAZINE | february 2014

27

SPECIAL SECTION childcare

Is Your Child Ready for

Daycare By: David Palmer

For many parents, there is

The Question Of Age

Some parents will undoubtedly find themselves pondering over the appropriate age for a child to enter daycare. While there are many one inescapable question that will, at some daycare facilities that cater to specific age groups or developmental point or another, plague them with sleepless stages, parents will still exercise concern when considering what age is right for their child to spend such a large amount of time away from nights; is my child ready for daycare? The their parents. This conundrum can be much harder to tackle. Many suggestions that will follow are a few ways parents will find themselves okay with their child being looked after as early as infancy, while others may feel that they aren’t comfortable a parent can determine whether or not it is with their child going to a daycare until certain benchmarks have been met. For Hannah Gebert, a Mishawaka mother, age-appropriateness is time for, or even necessary for, their child to a central issue. “I wouldn’t send my daughter to daycare until she’s be entered into the world of daycare. old enough to understand talking and to talk back,” she says, “because I don’t want my child going to a daycare and not being able to tell me if anything goes on or to understand what’s happening around her.” If parents don’t find themselves in the same camp as Hannah Is It Necessary? and don’t feel that their child needs to be vocal to go to a daycare, The first thing the parent of any child will want to consider when then it might benefit them to shop around for daycare facilities or faced with the daycare question is if it is even necessary for them. care-takers that specialize in caring for newborns and infant age While many parents must opt for a daycare for reasons beyond their children. A slew of websites—such as Care.com immediate control—such as returning to work or the need for extra and Childcareaware.org—are readily available income with a child—many do not have to. For to aid parents in finding the right care for their these parents, the option of a daycare facility to “Often, it is the child at many different ages and stages. The right watch over their children is just that, an option. parents who must program tailored for the right ages can make all If this is the case, then a deliberation is in order the difference in the world when it comes to a to decide if daycare is something that parents be ready for the child’s experience in daycare. would want and if it would benefit the child daycare process in some way that they believe staying at home as much as it is the would not. Heather Cook, a South Bend social It’s Not You, It’s Me worker and mother of two girls, says “I didn’t children.”

There is a flipside to every coin and a child’s have to send my children to a daycare, so I chose readiness for daycare is no exception. Often, it is not to; at least not for the first two years for each the parents who must be ready for the daycare of them. But I realized I couldn’t be out of work much longer than process as much as it is the children. There is no shame in realizing that and I was comfortable with them going at two-years-old.” Some that while you may feel a daycare program would be good for your parents will find this true for themselves, while others might find they child, you as a parent are not yet ready to turn some of the time you don’t have the option to choose one way or the other. spend with your child over to a daycare facility. The parent-child 28

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bonding time is an essential part of a child’s formative stages and it stands to reason that some parents will have a difficult time letting go of those precious seconds. Understanding that sending a child to daycare can be just as difficult of a decision for parents to handle as for children can ease the process and help the process along. If parents find themselves on the fence as to whether or not they are comfortable with being apart from their child for the amount of time they would be spending at daycare, a walk-through or sit-in at a daycare that is being considered might be the determining action. Heidi Nix, director at Friends School and Daycare in South Bend, says “Most parents are sure they want their child in daycare but occasionally some aren’t. They can come in and tour, talk with

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Call, click or stop by today. our staff and bring their child to experience the environment. Some stay for 10 minutes, some for a couple of hours.” Engaging in the environment that your child will be staying in when apart from you can help to calm feelings of uneasiness or solidify the idea that you might not be ready to send your child to daycare at a particular point.

At the end of the day, a child’s readiness for daycare is all a matter of the parent’s perspective coupled with what will most likely benefit the child. Whether parents choose a daycare for their child or not, the child’s happiness and growth are, first and foremost, the most important factor parents can ever consider.

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FAMILY MAGAZINE | february 2014

29

SPECIAL SECTION childcare

Preschool

Already?

When is the best time to get your child enrolled?

By: Kristine Smith

W

hile some schools may begin accepting children for preschool when they are as young as three-years-old, your child may not be as ready to go. Being prepared for preschool is a result of where the child is developed mentally.

A child must be socially, mentally and emotionally ready to attend school with a group of other children in a structured environment.

There are basic needs that a school may require, such as having a child be potty trained prior to admission, or being able to feed themselves independently. However, there are several other factors that are called into question when making the decision to send your child to preschool.

A crucial fact in sending your child off to school is that they will then be away from you, their primary caregiver. Has your child been away from you for an extended amount of time before?

Whether it was sending a child to daycare for a few hours or having a babysitter come to your home while you run errands, these times are important to the child in forming the independence needed to begin school.

“The idea that learning can be enjoyed is a concept a person can carry with them throughout their lives. �

Preschool classes can run for half days or full days, depending on the school program you enroll them in. Ensuring that your child is accustomed to being without you for certain spans of time is a very important skill that the child must have but that age that they develop this does vary from child to child. If your child seems too uneasy with being without you, start by leaving your child for 15 minutes as a trial separation to start building their independence.

Another aspect of preschool is socialization. Has your child been exposed to other children? While preschool is where they begin to learn many socialization skills, it may be useful to expose your child to other children, whether it is at a daycare or a playground, to help them adapt to being around other children their age.

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The length of their attention span is another aspect to look for. Some child psychology experts state that the length of a child’s attention span should be equal to their age. For example, a three year old child should have, on average, a three minute attention span. This may be long enough to complete a puzzle or start a game. While this certainly is not a requirement for admission, it does help when your child can focus on a task of some kind. This shows they would then have the ability to focus in a classroom setting and learn new skills.

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The ability to communicate is a skill that is useful, yet again, not required. While you may be able to understand your child, will the teacher or other students be able to? If there is a speech delay occurring, it is best to get this diagnosed and treated prior to beginning preschool unless the preschool can agree to set extra time aside for your child to help them gain the skills necessary to complete the class and move on to kindergarten.

Is your child able to follow a routine? With the hustle and bustle of a having two parents working outside the home, or the added stress a single mother has in raising a child alone, routines can understandably get lost. However, in a classroom setting, routines are imperative to create a conductive learning environment.

If there are little routines in the child’s life at home, sending that child to school in a structured environment is a recipe for disaster.

Try to create routines before enrolling your child. Even simple routines, such as eating a meal at 5 p.m. every night, can teach a child what following a routine consists of.

Preschool is valued not only for the academics that it introduces to a child but to the socialization that is introduced. The idea that learning can be enjoyed is a concept a person can carry with them throughout their lives. Teaching children how to share and compromise is an important benefit to preschool but that being said; rushing a child into a classroom environment before they are physically or emotionally ready can be damaging and can slow down the child’s growth process. Listen to the signs your child gives you and acknowledge that each child develops at a different rate. You and your child will be happy you did.

Kristine is a freelance writer, living in her hometown of La Porte, Indiana. She has been published both regionally and nationally and prefers to write articles that provoke, inspire or amuse. She attended Ball State University for her Bachelor's degree in Sociology and recently completed her Master's degree in Psychology. Hiking the dunes, swimming in gorgeous Lake Michigan or biking in the country are her favorite activities.

From 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Please call 574-674-8800 to reserve a time

 Half Day and Full Day Preschool Programs & Kindergarten through 8th Grade

 NLSA/NCA accredited National Exemplary School

 Before and after school care available  Blended technology instruction and learning

 Secure and safe learning environment

Established in 1874, excellence in education within a caring, faith-based community.

Please contact us for more information.

30888 C.R. 6, Elkhart (Corner of Ash & Cleveland Roads) 574.674.8800 School@TrinityL.org • http://pk8.TrinityL.org THE

FAMILY MAGAZINE | february 2014

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FAMILY mommy & daddy

DIY Cleaners:

Essential Products to Have in Your Home By: Lara West

I

f you don’t have to subject yourself to harsh chemicals, why would you? Last month we discussed three essential ingredients for making your own home cleaners: vinegar, baking soda and borax. There are only a few other essential products that you will need to complete your new natural cleaning closet. Let’s begin by taking a closer look at washing soda and lemon juice.

Washing soda is also referred to as sodium carbonate. It is mined from several areas around the world, including right here in the United States. Washing soda serves as a water softener and stain remover in the laundry detergent. It works great for this purpose because it actually binds to the minerals that make up hard water. The foaming action then breaks the deposits away. (You can also use this product to help remove water deposits on the bathroom sink fixtures.) Speaking of binding, washing soda is also used as a binging agent when dyeing fabrics, and like baking soda, it can be used as a gentle scouring agent on soft surfaces.

You can usually find the box of washing soda in the laundry aisle of a grocery store but sometimes it is difficult to find. Another option is that you can actually bake your own washing soda. All you need is your oven, a baking sheet and baking soda.

To make your own washing soda, preheat your oven to 400 degrees, pour two cups of baking soda onto a baking sheet and bake for about an hour (stir around every ten minutes for even baking.) There is no huge change in the baking soda to identify when it has become washing soda but you’ll know it has changed when the soda is dull and slightly yellow in color and is grainier in texture.

There is a respiratory warning, along with eye irritation and ingestion warnings, as with all cleaning agents, washing soda should always be stored out of the reach of children. (Note: It’s been mentioned that it can take up to two hours to bake when using a glass pan. Normally using a metal pan it took up to an hour.)

Another interesting cleaning agent for your home is lemon juice. Lemon Juice is more versatile than being a meat tenderizer, a flavoring component or even a delicious shakeup at the county fair. If you’re using (or switching to) natural cleaners, it could become an important produce to have around the kitchen.

The high acidity/low pH of lemons makes it ideal for use as a disinfectant agent, as well as a stain remover.

If you have ever cleaned your microwave using a commercial cleaner and had your food coming out tasting like you marinated it in chemicals beforehand, then you are probably interested in a natural alternative. Instead of using a harsh chemical, cut up a lemon 32

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and heat it in the microwave with a dish of water for about 50 seconds to one minute.

The gritty unattractive food particles should wipe off the side walls more easily and leave your microwave with a much friendlier scent.

Lemon juice can also serve as a bleaching agent for your laundry. To do so, start by boiling water and a sliced lemon, turn off the heat and then add your clothing. Let them soak for about an hour before washing as normal. (I will usually do this if I only have a few pairs of socks.) If you have a larger need for bleach like we do, three beds with white linens and pillow cases, then here is another great recipe to add to your cleaner recipe book.

Natural Bleach:

3 quarts water 1 cup hydrogen peroxide ¼ cup lemon juice Mix all ingredients together. Add 2 cups to each load.

This can also be used in a spray bottle for everyday cleaning around the house.

Here are a few other household items you may want to consider using lemon juice for: • Cutting Board: Rub undiluted juice (preferably right from a halved lemon) over board and let sit to remove stains.

• Food Storage Containers: Scrub a paste mixture of lemon juice and baking soda into the container and let it sit for a few hours to overnight and wash clean.

Don’t worry about storing your child’s winter gear only to find they have out grown it next year!

Bring in your items and get cash on the spot at Once Upon a Child for your kiddos’ boots, snowpants, coats, hats and gloves! We pay $$$ on the spot for gently used clothing, toys, furniture and equipment your kids have outgrown. Plus, low prices on everything they need now.

Snuggle into that!

More than just a great show!

Sign up your kids for the upcoming 2014 Camps, Workshops and Classes!

410 S Main Street Elkhart, IN 46516 (574) 293-4469

www.premierarts.org AWARD-WINNING RESIDENT THEATRE COMPANY OF THE LERNER THEATRE

UNIQUE

PHOTOGRAPHY OPPORTUNITY IN ELKHART COUNTY

Type of sessions include infants, children, families, engagement/wedding, seniors, maternity, and themed sets.

• Glass Shower Doors: Rub juice directly from a halved lemon onto doors, wash with a soft baking soda sprinkled sponge and rinse clean.

• Bathroom Fixtures: Apply a layer of lemon juice-baking soda paste and rinse in the morning.

• Windows: Mix one tablespoon of lemon juice with one quart water. Spray and wipe.

$50.00 off a photo session Expires 5/3/14

• Brass: Sprinkle salt on a halved lemon, and gently clean the tarnish away following the grain of the item. (Please, do not try to clean antique brass items with anything until you have spoken with an appraiser, as doing so may decrease the value of the piece.)

Lara West completed her degree in Elementary Education and has spent the last several years working as a ghost writer, completing manuscripts, children stories, research papers and article rewrites.

Proud photographer of this FAMILY Magazine’s Cover Photo!

56199 Parkway Ave. #13, Elkhart, IN 46516 574.296.SWIM (7946) www.ShepardSwimSchool.com

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Preparing for Overnight Camp Research: Go online or plan to make a visit at the camp your children are interested in. This will help you and your kids feel more comfortable to know what to expect.

5

Benefits of Summer Camps:

Teamwork: Learning together what it’s like to accomplish goals as a team.

Diversity: Getting your child out of their immediate world will give them a chance to meet new friends that they may never have had a chance otherwise.

Self Esteem: Being away from their home will teach your child a sense of independence and self reliance.

New Skills: During summer camp, your child will learn new skills that they wouldn’t learn at home.

Culture: Your child will be submitted to different things throughout their stay at summer camp.

They could go horseback riding, shoot archery, high dive or even create their own bonfire.

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Packing Rules: Always double check the list that the camp gives you on what your children can bring with them. Send the items that are on the list with them and avoid sending any additional items. They provide a list for a reason.

Name Everything: Put your children’s name on everything that they take with them. You can also include a packing list inside their bag so your children can double check they packed everything on their return home.

Stay Connected: Just because your kids are away for a couple days or a couple of weeks doesn’t mean you can’t stay in contact with them. Send pre-stamped, addressed envelopes along with a notebook and a pen so your children can write your letters. Plus, as a kid, it’s always fun get mail in return!

Stay Positive: No matter how you feel, keep positive outlooks on your kids going to camp. If your children sense that you are worried, they can get worried as well. Summer camps are fun and your children will have fun participating in them.

2014

Saturday February 22nd, 2014 The FAMILY Magazines and South Bend Parks & Recreation are bringing Michiana Summer Camp Fair 2014 to the Century Center! On February 22nd from 10 AM to 1 PM you can come learn about all the different summer camp options for the kids this year! Whatever their interests, whatever their ages, there will be lots of great camps to choose from and you can ensure that your kids will have a blast this summer by getting them signed up during The Michiana Summer Camp Fair 2014!

You won't want to miss it!

Here are just a few of the camps you can expect to see at the Summer Camp Fair!

Bethel College Summer Camps Camp Alexander Mack Camp Crosley YMCA Cedar Lodge Compton Family Ice Arena Culver Summer Schools and Camps Global Link China Healthworks!

Sponsored by:

In Partnership With:

Logan Community Resources Martin's School of Cooking-Chef Camps Michiana Christian Svc. Camp Salvation Army Kroc Center South Bend Civic Theatre South Bend Museum of Art South Bend Parks & Recreation South Bend Police Athletic League

Saint Joe High School Summer Camps St. Joeseph Public Library St. Mary's College Summer Camps Star Martial Arts Transpo YMCA Camp Potawatomi

Camp Awareness is a popular summer day camp that is celebrating its 53rd Year! Camp Awareness offers camping activities without the “sleeping out” experience. It’s a bug biting, stream stomping, fishing, archery, poison ivy, campfire cookout, bug juice, counselor hunt, tribal challenge, GET DIRTY camp!

Rum Village Nature Detectives/ WildWoods Nature Show Camp

The Nature Detectives Day Camp at Rum Village gives students ages 6 through 14 a chance to explore the natural world at a beautiful local park. The naturalists will once again offer the Wildwoods Nature Show Day Camp for older students.

The camp gives 13 and 14 year-old campers a chance to plan, film and edit a short nature film.

For details on both call the nature Center 574.235.9455.

Summer Camps, and so much more!

Call 574.299.4765 or search sbpark.org

• Aquatics Porgrams

KIDS ’

Learn to Swim, South Bend Swim Club

• Cross Country Camp • Free Fishing Saturdays Pinhook Park

• Junior Golf Programs

WORLD Kids’ World is offered to children entering grades 1-7 who would like something to talk about when they return to school in the Fall. Campers will get to go to the pool and have one other field trip or special event each week. It is great to make new friends and see old ones while exploring arts and crafts, team building, science and nutrition, along with our favorite gym activities and other surprises. You won’t want to miss FUNomenal Fridays with Fear Factor, Tribal Challenge, and Fit to Play activities.

For more information, please visit our website, www.sbpark.org.

Tiny Tots, Studebaker Jr Golf, Junior Tour

• Kids’ Triathlon • Leeper Tennis Center

Little Shots, Pee Wee Tennis, Jr. Mini-Camp, Jr. Elite, Jr. Excellence

• Potawatomi Zoo Camp Nyati Zoo Camp (5-6 yrs), Nyoka ZooCamo (7-9 yrs) Nyuni ZooCamp (10-12)

• River City Summer Camps

Basketball, Cheer/Pom, Flag Football, Tee Ball

• Summer Track Program

Saint Joseph High School SUMMER CAMPS! 16 different Camps for kids K-8

June 16th - July 10th Cost: $25 to $135 (depending on the camp you select)

Saint Joseph High School sponsors 16 different camps including: Baseball, Cheer, Boys and Girls Basketball, Dance, Football, Boys and Girls Lacrosse, Boys and Girls Soccer, Softball, Track, Volleyball, Wrestling, and Art and Drama Workshops.

453 N. Notre Dame Avenue South Bend, IN 46617 574-234-5455 sjcamps@saintjoehigh.com

www.SaintJoeHigh.com

Check out our website for further camp dates and information!

Yes, YOUR Child Could Become Crazy About Math!

At Mathnasium Learning Centers, our proven Mathnasium Method helps children clearly understand math by teaching it in a way that makes sense to them.

When a child understands math, their confidence soars. With soaring confidence, your child is able to do progressively more — more advanced work than they would have ever believed possible. Before you know it, your child could become crazy about math!

Your neighborhood Mathnasium Learning Center is at:

7321 Heritage Sq. Dr., Suite 170 Granger, IN 46530

888-850-MATH www.mathnasium.com

2 N D –12 T H GRADES • HOMEWORK HELP • TEST PREP • SUMMER PROGRAMS THE

FAMILY MAGAZINE | february 2014

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Kroc Summer Camps

Finding the Spark Within What Is Day Camp?

The camp program is an amazing opportunity for children to learn and develop new skills, make new friends, practice core values, build leadership qualities, and most importantly, have fun! Your kids will have a blast in an outstanding facility.

Campers enjoy fun-filled days of activities in the care and safety of trained and experienced staff. These memories and friendships will last a lifetime!

Camps

Kroc Pre-School Camp: Ages 3-5 Kroc Camp: Ages 5-12 Kroc Leaders: Ages 12-17 When and where can I register?

Register anytime at the Welcome Desk or online at www.mykroc.org. Registration ends the Friday before the first day of camp.

What is included?

Registration fee includes all planned activities from 7:00AM – 6:00PM, before & after care*, morning snack**, lunch**, snack, field trips, an awesome Kroc Kids T-shirt!

Cost: Camp Costs vary : $50-$100 members / $75-$125 non–members depending on camp selection. Partial Camps available as well at discounted rates. * Not included for Leader Camp. ** The USDA and the State of Indiana are equal opportunity providers and emplopyers.

900 West Western Ave South Bend, Indiana 46601 574 233 9471 | www.mykroc.org

Friendship. Creativity. Collaboration.

South Bend Civic Theatre Performing Arts Camps for All Ages!

Quick Info: Summer Performing Arts Camp Phone: 574-234-1112 Website: sbct.org Address: 403 N Main St Dreams come true in SBCT’s summer camps.

South Bend IN 46624 Perform in a musical! Make a film! Act out your own story! Improvise!

Contact: Carys Kresny Expert teaching artists inspire kids to jump into the joy of creating great theatre SBCT Education Director together and invite committed young performers to explore their art and stretch 574-968-7496 their skills. Serious fun plus gleeful learning equals a great summer experience! carysk@sbct.org Young Filmakers. Time-Travel Theatre, Make-a-Musical.

Dates: June through July Young Performers’ Institute….and more.

Ages: Grades K-12 Explore our website at sbct.org or sign up by phone 574-234-1112

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Camp Mack C

QUICK INFO

Camp: Website: Address:

Contact:

Dates: Ages: Cost:

Camp Mack .org www.campmack 113 (1 8 P.O. Box 15 ad), Ro k ac M mp E. Ca 2 Milford IN 4654 Curt Rowland, Program Director 574-658-4831 rg curt@campmack.o 5 st gu June 11 – Au s) on ssi se y da (3 to 6 Co-ed 5-18 $148 - $480

ome live in Christian community where you are encouraged to go beyond your comfort zone and grow in self-confidence while learning leadership skills. Our program is intentionally designed to provide you with life-changing experiences that lead to the formation of personal faith within a safe Christian community.

Our leaders are trained to focus on physical and emotional safety, skill development and age-appropriate programming that is exciting, educational and enriching. In addition, our leaders have a heart for ministry and kids and a love of summer fun that they share with the campers. Our Bible study theme this summer is “Get Real: Finding Your True Self in Jesus.”

Based on John 15:11; our focus is to help campers recognize, in a world of altered images, reality TV and social media, that Jesus is the real thing.

June 16 – 20 June 23 – 27 July 7 – 11 July 14 – 18 SBMA and Southold Dance

Art & Dance Camp July 21 – 25

Preschool – Preteen Morning & Afternoon Options

or call 574.235.9102

Camp Name

Phone

Camp Alexander Mack 574-658-4831 1113 E Camp Mach Road P.O. Box 158 Milford, IN 46542

Website

Contact Info

Ages

Dates

Cost

www.campmack.org

Rex M Miller rex@campmack.org

7-18 Years

June 11th through August 1st

3 Days - $151 to $209 4 Days - $303 5 Days - $377 Specialty- $401 Travel - $413 to $480

For moreur o info, see HT SPOTLIG39! e on pag

Camp Mack, a Church of the Brethren Ministry, offers traditional camps and specialty camps like biking, sailing and drumming. It hosts camps and retreats for many denominations and organizations. Camp Mach has weekly camps and is accredited by the American Camp Association.

Bethel College Academic and Sports Camps

Academic Camps 574-807-7499 Sports Camps 574-807-7425

www.bethelcollege.edu/ camps

Academic: Jennifer Ochstein Jennifer.Ochstein@ BethelCollege.edu Sports: Mike Lightfoot Athletics@BethelCollege.edu

5-18

June-July

Ranges from $80-$300

Bethel academic camps and sports camps are designed to give your child a fun and rewarding experience while learning from our expert faculty and staff. A variety of exciting week-long camps are available. Come experience some wonderful adventures with us and find out why our camps are so popular.

Compton Family Ice Arena

574-631-1166

www.comptonice.nd.edu

Camp Crosley YMCA

574-834-2331

www.campcrosley.org

Camp Cedar Lodge

269-674-8071 or 269-674-8072

www.cedarlodge.com

Christine Cochrane cedarlodgestables@ gmail.com

Coed: 8-16 Years

Starting June 15th to August 10th.

Kids can come anywhere from one to eight weeks and any combination of.

8-9 Years: $600/Week 10-11 Years: $640/Week 12-16 Years: $675/Week Riding Programs Are Extra

Low pressured, family oriented, coed programs for ages 8-16. Strong English riding program including jumping, vaulting and show team for all riding levels.

Have year around show stable with 25 school horses and qualified instructors. Diverse general camp agenda includes land sports, waterfront, drama, arts, music, camping, archery and more.

Culver Summer Schools & Camps

574-842-8300

www.culver.org/summer

Global Link China

919-417-1887

www.globallinkchina.org

HealthWorks! Kids' Museum

574-647-KIDS

www.healthworkskids.org

111 West Jefferson Blvd., Suite 200 South Bend, IN 46601

Alice Hightshoe ahightshoe@beaconhealthsystem.org

Depending on Camp Theme

April 7th – August 15th

$25 per camper, per day. Discounts available for multiple campers and members.

HealthWorks! Kid’s Museum is continuing to offer the craziest, wackiest and coolest spring, summer and winter break camps. All full-day camps will include games, crafts, activities, time for exploration on our fun-tastic Museum floor. Register soon to save your spot. Call 647-KIDS or visit www.healthworkskids.org for more information.

Kroc Summer Camp 900 W. Washington Street South Bend, IN 46601

574-233-9471 ext 2227

www.mykroc.org

For moreur o info, see HT SPOTLIG38! on page

Jacqueline J. Davis jackie.davis@ usc.salvationarmy.org

3-5 June 9th – Lil Krockers August 15th 6-11 Kroc Camp 12-17 Krc Leadership Camp

$125 a week for Non-Members $100 a week for Members

Your child will enjoy our gym, water park, rock climbing, art and more. Staff is professionally trained in Safe from Harm and the 40 Developmental Assets. They will receive before and after care, breakfast snack, lunch and afternoon snack. Camp shirt and field trips are all included in registration fee.

Martin’s School of Cooking Summer Chef Camp

574-968-4974

www.martins-supermarkets.com/cookingschool

Mathnasium of Granger’s Summer Sessions

888-850-MATH (6284)

www.mathnasium.com/ granger

For moreur o info, see HT SPOTLIG38! e g on pa

Carl Waggoner 7-16 Years granger@mathnasium.com

June-August

2nd Grade-5th Grade: $229 per month 6th Grade8th Grade: $249 per month 9th Grade-10th Grade: $299 per month

At Mathnasium, summer programs are about preventing summer learning loss and helping students prepare for what lies ahead. For some students, that means a solid review of material. Others benefit from previewing upcoming concepts. Most students will get some of both. Open enrollment is all summer from June through August.

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Featured 2014 Summer Camps!

Camp Name

Phone

Website

Michiana Christian Service Camp

269-683-4403

www.michianacamp.org

Michiana Family YMCA 574-287-9622 Summer Day Camp

www.michianaymca.org

Performing Arts Camps at South Bend Civic Theatre

sbcttheatreeducation. weebly.com

For moreur o info, see HT SPOTLIG38! on page

To register 574-234-1112 For the Director of Education & Outreach 574-968-7496

Contact Info

Ages

Dates

Cost

Carys Kresny carysk@sbct.org

K-12th Grade

June through July

Cost varies with individual camp session.

Perform in a musical! Make a film! Act out your own story! Expert teaching artists inspire kids to jump into the joy of creating great theatre together and invite committed young performers to explore their art and stretch their skills. Serious fun plus gleeful learning equals a great summer experience!

Saint Mary’s Summer Camps

574-284-4778

St. Joseph County Public Library Summer Reading Challenge

574-282-4607

www.libraryforlife.org

Saint Joe High School Summer Camps

574-234-5455

www.saintjoehigh.com

www.saintmarys.edu/ camps

Lisa Peppers 5th to 12th July 6th–25th lpeppers@saintmarys.edu Grade (See specific camp Kalyn Whitaker dates below.) kwhitaker@saintmarys.edu

$440 to $565

Eric Gohike K-8th egohike@saintjoehigh.com Grade John Gumpf jgumpf@saintjoehigh.com

$25 to $135 Depending On Camp

Saint Mary’s College Notre Dame, IN 46556 For moreur Saint Mary’s offers the best summer camp fun and learning for young women. Choose from over three overnight camps in July: Athletics (July 6tho info, see HT SPOTLIG42! 10th and July 13th -17th)), Fine Arts (July 6th-11th, July 13th – 18th and July 20th – July 25th) and Summer Academy (July 6th-11th, July 13th-18th and on page July 20th-25th).

453 N. Notre Dame Avenue South Bend, IN 46617 m r Fo oreur Several Off Site Camps o e se , fo in HT SPOTLIG37!

Saint Joseph High on page

June 16th July 10th.

Schools sponsor 16 different camps. Camps are as follows: baseball, cheer, boys and girl’s basketball, dance, football, boys and girl’s lacrosse, boys and girl’s soccer, softball, track, volleyball, wrestling and art and drama workshops.

For moreur o info, see HT SPOTLIG39! on page

South Bend Museum of Art Summer Classes for Kids

574-235-9102

www.southbendart.org

Jessi Loyd loydj@southbendart.org

Preschool – Preteen

June 16th-20th, June 23rd-27th, July 7th-11th, July 14th-18th

Tuition varies, discount to members.

Creative kids are lifelong learners! The SBMA offers a palette of possibilities to challenge their imaginations with four one-week sessions of morning and afternoon classes for preschoolers to preteens. Drawing, sculpture, fibers, ceramics on the wheel and an art and dance camp with Southold are among the classes offered.

South Bend Police Athletic League

574-235-5888 ext 2078

www.southbendpolice.com

South Bend TRANSPO Summer Travel Pass K-12

574-232-9901

www.sbtranspo.com

Star Martial Arts Camps

Elkhart Location 574-522-5425 Mishawaka Location 574-277-5425

www.startkd.com

Seth or Melanie Birky kick@startkd.com

4-12

June 16thAugust 8th (See specific camp date below.)

$99: before April 19th $125: before May 24th $150: after May 24th

Elkhart Camps: Avengers Camp (June 16th-20th), Ninjago Camp (June 23rd-27th), Indiana Jones Camp (June 30th-July 3rd), Star Wars Camp (July 14th-18th), Science Experiment Camp (July 21st-25th), Wipeout Camp (July 26th-August 1st) and Nerf Wars Camp (Aug 4th – 8th). Mishawaka Camps: Avengers Camp (June 16th-20th), Ninjago Camp (June 23rd-27th), Wipeout Camp (July 7th-11th), Science Experiment Camp (July 21st-25th) and Nerf Wars Camp (August 4th-8th).

Summer Adventure Camp

574-289-4831

www.logancenter.org

YMCA Camp Potawatomi

260-351-2525

www.fwycamp.org

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Summer Camps | 2014

! s l r i for G

irl.

rg e p u s R U O r Y She’s er discove h rs. e w o Help er p p u s her

en s

FFo or r

en

Camps start July 6.

For more information and to reserve her spot today, visit saintmarys.edu/camps

t! fas st! fa

Saint Mary’s College Summer Camps for girls include fine arts, athletics (6 sports!), our popular Forensic Science Camp, and cience flls up S icScience fl our new Studio Arts Super Hero Camp. ls u i sc p

4 Color this page and win a 201

NAME: _________________________________________ AGE: ______ ADDRESS: __________________________________________________ CITY: ___________________________ STATE: ______ ZIP: _________ DAY TIME PHONE: __________________________________________ PARENT’S NAME: ___________________________________________ E-MAIL: ____________________________________________________

Color this page and win! The coloring contest winners will be featured in our April 2014 issue of FAMILY Magazine!

One winner will be selected from each of the three following age categories: 3-5, 6-9 and 10-12 years of age.

For your chance to WIN, color your best picture and mail entries to: FAMILY Magazines of michiana • 1233 E. University Drive • Granger, IN 46530 • (574) 387-5420. Coloring contest is open to children 12 years and under, and entries must be mailed by March 3rd, 2014. Winners will be featured in the April 2014 issue of FAMILY Magazine. Winners' artwork will be featured along with their first name and age. For additional coloring contest entries, this coloring page may be photocopied and printed off.

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F F F G F H X Q G O G J S E H W O R K N Q P G J Q B H T X I S W O I X I N K O Q X U O P K P M S D E I N O Z M K N R E E D Z K K M N U R I T K D I R L F A N M W F D D A B W P E I E J T I A R P R S R E W X S E R F W C A M P I N G M L H B N I S L E E P I N G B A G M H C F E E A I D S E R I W U O Q E P E X M S Q F R L S G R Z O K M R B V A H B T V U S B C T I A T A I F G L H H E F R O N Y C K Y R Z G R I B U A U T E V T X J F G U R A G F J E P L Z D M O N C B C P T H N P S E P E N E E P K X C M T T Z B V O V Y T I V I T C A M A R D N K R S O N G S R N S T V C A E Y U B D U B Y S R Z T S C N Y M C

Have Fun! Find the words below in the FAMILY Magazine's Camp Fair word search puzzle.

Words can be forwards, backwards, diagonal, vertical or horizontal.

Activity Camping Flash Light Craft Drama Experience Food

Friends Games Trees Hike Horseback Canoe Learning

Campfire Sleepingbag Songs Stories Swimming Tent

Birthday Party Resource Guide

Everything you need to plan the party of the decade for your kiddo!

The Ultimate WINTER Birthday Swim Party!

2 hour party up to 30 guests!

$75 OFF

BIRTHDAY PARTY PACKAGE! Offer Valid Until 3-31-14.

56199 Parkway Ave. #13, Elkhart, IN 46516 574.296.SWIM (7946) www.ShepardSwimSchool.com

The most affordable escape from the ordinary!

O

R

$25 Off

a 2 hour Private Weekend Skating Party!

$50 Off

a 2 hour Private Laser Tag Party!

Visit our website to see available times, pricing and dates available.

Offer expires 3-31-14

14583 S.R. 120 Bristol, IN 46507

574.848.4110 ebysfamilyfun.com

Up to 12 children

Enjoy a gymnastics or nerf darts themed activity time, eating cake and opening presents in the air conditioned, private dance room and playing princess dress up during craft time. Add pizza and cupcakes to any package. See package prices at www.inspireathletics.com.

24615 C.R. 45, Suite 3 • Elkhart, IN • 574.295.4348

www.InspireAthletics.com

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FAMILY recipe

Healthy Chocolate Candy

By: Jeannine Eubanks

Ingredients:

1/2 c. coconut oil (or butter) 1/4 c. cocoa powder 2-3 T raw honey 1/4t flavored extracts of your choice – optional

Directions:

1. Fill a medium sauce pan about half way with water, heat on medium-high until nice and warm.

2. Put ingredients into a glass measuring cup, mason jar, or something similar and place into warm water.

3. Turn burner to low and simmer, stirring as the oil liquefies.

4. When everything is thoroughly mixed, remove from pan and pour into candy molds.

5. Put into fridge to harden for a few hours.

6. Pop out of molds and store in fridge (coconut oil melts at about 76 degrees)

Jeannine Eubanks is a mother of five, real food advocate, food/parenting blogger and photographer. She loves art, gardening, reading, green living, healthy eating, camping and gourmet coffee. She blogs at Eubanks Eutopia.

eyes Braxton, Elkhart

The

Sonia, Elkhart

have it.

Darnell, Bristol

Jill, Bristol

The votes are in.

Boling Vision Center is the #1 choice for eye care.

Maintaining good eye health is an important part of enjoying

We hope that you are already one of our valued guests at

good overall health. And we believe that’s why, for more

Boling Vision Center. If so, we thank you for voting Boling

than three generations, residents of this community have

as your eye care provider of choice. If not, we sincerely

overwhelmingly trusted their eyes to the Boling Vision

invite you to visit us and discover first-hand the amazing

Center team. From comprehensive eye exams and the

experiences that happen here every day.

finest eyewear, to the most advanced surgical procedures and vision-enhancing treatments available today, we are committed to helping the families of our community be as bright-eyed, healthy and happy as possible.

Amazing Here Amazing Happens Happens Here

Now accepting VSP and EyeMed Vision Plans!

Richard, Elkhart

800.283.8393

bolingvisioncenter.com

Keson, Muncie

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N ha n k o El cati Lo

Elkhart @ Beacon Medical Group | Elkhart East 3301 County Road 6 East | Open 7 days a week | 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

For more than 25 years, Med-Point Urgent Care Centers have been helping more individuals and families heal faster than any other health care provider in the area.

When you need prompt medical help for a sinus infection, the flu or minor medical occurrences, without the inconvenience and cost of the emergency room, come to one of our 6 locations in St. Joseph and Elkhart Counties.

Our Med-Point Urgent Care Centers are staffed by experienced urgent care physicians and nurse practitioners when you need them most.

For more information, visit UrgentCareMedPoint.com or call 574.266.5342.