LAKESIDE Family Magazine April 2012

SERVING: ST. JOSEPH, STEVENSVILLE, BRIDGMAN, NEW BUFFALO & SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES

COMPLIMENTARY • PRICELESS • FREE

FA M I LY T I M E I S A L W AY S B E T T E R N E A R T H E L A K E

Lory’s Place

Grieving with Healthy Bodies and Healthy Minds

A Reason to Smile!

Simple Ways to Keep Your Pet’s Dental Health in Check

Melting Down, Mom?

Tips for saving the day when you’re freaking out

Innovative Medicine Here at Home

APRIL 2012

Southwestern Medical Clinic Medical Trials Offer Unique Opportunities for Patients

Congratulations!

To the talented January Coloring Winners.

Contributors Publisher & Editor-in-Chief:

Betsy Tavernier Betsy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com EXECUTIVE Editor: Kerri Hagens Kerri@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com FAMILY MAGAZINES Advertising Account Manager: Jessica Marietta Jessica@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com FAMILY MAGAZINES Advertising Account Manager: Tiphanee Vegh Tiphanee@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com FAMILY & LAKESIDE MAGAZINES Advertising Account Manager: Brianna Armato Brianna@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com Creative Director: Jena Bontrager Jena@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com Fashion Editor: Kathy Friend Kathy@MMProd.com

Elizabeth – Age 5p Averi – Age 9 u Abbi – Age 1 1 q

Medical Editor: S. Jesse Hsieh, M.D. Distribution Managers: Richard Cox – St. Joseph, Cass & Berrien Counties Wes Bontrager – Elkhart County Joe Dixon – St. Joseph County

Michiana Family Magazines would love to hear from you! Please submit press releases, event information and inquiries to: Media@Michianafamilymagazine.com Michiana Family Magazines 5230 Beck Drive Suite #3B Elkhart, IN 46516 PH: 574.293.FAM1 (3261) • FX: 574.217.4700 www.michianafamilymagazine.com Michiana Family Magazines April 2012 Established in 2006.

All rights reserved.

IN THE NEXT ISSUE:

All About Mom • Spa & Beauty • Dining Out

If you would like your business and/or service to be included in the next issue, call The FAMILY Magazines at 574.293.FAM1 (3261) to reserve your space. Space is limited.

The FAMILY Magazine is a proud member of PMA

2 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

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 6: Number 4

www.MichianaFamilyMagazine.com 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.

800/522-6611 • studentloans@ndfcu.org

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The FAMILY Magazine: Live Your Best:

7 Find the Acorn Contest 8 The FAMILY Month Calendar

Kids Book Review:

10 The Mother-Daughter Book Club Reviewed By Melissa

A very special thank you to Andrea and Kendall for posing for our great April cover and feature shots. Beautiful Ladies!

SPECIAL FAMILY FEATURES 26 First Goodbyes

Sending Your Little One to Day Care and Preschool

By Meagan Church

28 To Preschool and Beyond

By Sarah Boulac

30 Growing Up in Style

Book Review:

Decorating Your Kid’s Bedroom

Reviewed By Michael Zeiger

32 Keeping Bugs at Bay

10 Star Wars: Darth Plagueis

Family Safety:

12 Have a Safe Spring Break

Tips to Ensure Your Vacation Stays Cool and Breezy

By Sgt. William Redman

Family Fun:

14 From One Recreational Gardner to Another Tips To Help You Grow A Garden!

By Jennifer Crutchfield

Frugal Family:

16 How to Ditch Your Cable Bill

By Amy Allen Clark

Family Boomers:

18 Staying Socially Connected

And Creating a Meaningful Retirement

By Tricia Gorden

By Jenny Mitschelen

Tips to Help Keep Your Kids Healthy In Day Care and Preschool

By Dr. Charisse Johnson and Dr. Daniel Kinney

34 Spring Style Trends

From Fashion to Décor

By Kathy Friend and Andrew Skipper

36 Searching High and Low

Our Area’s Hidden Outdoor Gems

By Evelyn Kirkwood

38 House Hunting: Redefined

How to Learn about the Rich History of Your Home

By Stephanie J. Salisbury

Calendar of Events:

40 Go to www.MichianaFamilyMagazine.com for tons of additional family events – updated daily!

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MiChild Magazine: Special Parenting Resource Section

MiCorner:

Lakeside FAMILY Magazine:

Special Feature Section targeting St. Joseph, Stevensville, Bridgman, New Buffalo and surrounding communities.

60 Growing Young Nature Lovers

LAKESIDE LIVING:

A Learning Activity for Your Kids!

46 Five Breakfasts in Five Minutes

Story Time:

BOOK REVIEW:

Reviewed by Anne Britton

Reviewed By Paula Stakley

62 The Candymakers

47 The Fault of Our Stars

Mommy & Daddy:

LAKESIDE PETS:

With Five Ways to Say “I Love You!

Simple Ways to Keep Your Pet’s Dental Health in Check

66 When Worlds Collide

LAKESIDE PARENTING:

64 Spring into Love!

By Laurie Puhn

Dinner with a Child-Free Friend

By Jane Suter

Big Kids:

68 Creative Discipline for Your Super Awesome Tweens

By Michelle Wegner

Play Dates:

70 Fun things to do with your kids this month!

48 A Reason to Smile

By Dr. Ed Blesy

50 Melting Down, Mom? Tips for saving the day when you’re freaking out

By Meagan Francis

LAKESIDE HEALTH:

52 Innovative Medicine Here at Home Southwestern Medical Clinic Medical Trials Offer Unique

Opportunities for Patients

By Amy Cahill

54 Lory’s Place Grieving with Healthy Bodies and Healthy Minds

By Marcy Blesy

LAKESIDE CALENDAR OF EVENTS:

56 Go to www.MichianaFamilyMagazine.com for tons of additional family events – updated daily!

We have it all more at &

St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic School!

New for 2012-2013!

K-8 Spanish Program and 4-5 year old Pre-K Program.

• Outstanding Academics • Safe Environment • Excellent ISTEP Scores • SMART Board Technology • Before and After School Care • Christian Family Atmosphere • Community Service Activities and Involvement • Specialty Classes: Art, Music, Computer, Physical Education • Extracurricular Activities ranging from Sports, Band, Scouting, Drama & More!

• 21st Century Learning Facility Recently Renovated and Expanded St. Thomas the Apostle School is Catholic in character, but open to all faith traditions.

Approximately 12% of our current enrollment is non-Catholic.

Please call our school office at 574.264.4855 for more information or to schedule a tour.

Visit us at www.stselkhart.com or www.stthomaselkhart.com!

St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic School 1331 North Main Street • Elkhart, IN 46514

6 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

Things We

FROM THE PUBLISHER

(at FAMILY)

It’s hard to believe that spring is in full swing with family activities galore. Spring break, Easter, soccer, baseball, dance recitals, proms, graduations – so many great opportunities to make family time a number one priority and multitudes of priceless family traditions.

At one of my baby showers so long ago, I remember all the women going around the room to give me motherly advice for my upcoming adventure as a new mom. One particular piece of advice has stuck with me all these years later – she said something like, “Betsy, make sure you start your own family traditions and make sure they happen on-time every year, every month, every week. Once you start them, don’t fail to keep them going and be consistent. Your kids will deeply value those family traditions and will always come back home for them.”

Love

Right Now!

1. The Easter Vigil 2. Coral Red 3. Pussy Willows 4. Bird Feeders 5. April Showers

Some of the strongest families I know celebrate Sunday family meals – each and every week, without fail. The whole family shows up with their kids at 1 p.m., and it is an unspoken rule that Sunday dinner is not to be missed. Whether they are speaking to each other or not, they show up, and eventually Sunday dinner lightens the moods, tames the family feuds and keeps the family together, one day a week.

Other families celebrate great traditions during family vacations. Something as simple as “we always play UNO on vacation as a family” is something that your kids will cherish, remember and will miss if UNO doesn’t happen this year on vacation.

Trust me, we just got home from vacation, and I played more UNO than I’d like to think about, but my boys loved every second of it, and that is worth gold to me.

I hope you too take the opportunity this spring to keep your own family traditions going strong or introduce some new traditions to your family. Many years from now, when the kids are on their own, they will come home for the traditions you started when they were young.

6. Comfy Slippers

Family traditions are sometimes the glue we all need to bring us back home again.

14. Fresh Linen Scent

Betsy & Family

15. Pillow Fights

Want the "organic"/green version of The FAMILY Magazine each month with bonus articles?

Sign up for our Email Newsletter on our website and get your own organic copy delivered to your email inbox each month!

Find the Hidden Acorn... ...that looks like the acorn pictured to the left for your chance to win a $30 Gift Certificate to Sally & Company Hair Designs!

Enter the Contest!

Go to: www.michianafamilymagazine.com and click on the acorn symbol on the bottom left side of the website’s home page. Fill out a short entry form and tell us on what page you found the acorn, and you will be entered into this issue’s drawing! Contest ends April 25th, 2012.

Check it Out!

7. Down Duvets 8. Sunday Dinner 9. Creative Easter Eggs 10.

A Sincere Thank You

11. Lake Michigan 12. Redamak’s in New Buffalo 13. Beagles

Don’t forget to pick up your copy of the NEW SASSY Magazine!

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Congratulations to Irene Kafka of South Bend for being the March Acorn winner! (Page 35).

THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

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live your best

The FAMILY Month Calendar 1

• April Fool’s Day • Palm Sunday

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Good Friday

Opening Day for Major League Baseball

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Don’t Forget: Budget Blinds CEO Chad Hallock to Appear on TV show Taxes are due!

Undercover Boss at 8pm PT/ET

Good Friday

Passover

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A p r i l is C hi l d A b use P r eventi o n M o nth !

Did you know that in the State of Michigan, certain professions are mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect, but that in Indiana, everyone is required to report suspected abuse and neglect?

That’s right – everyone, including you! If you suspect that a child is being abused or neglected, call Indiana’s Child Abuse hotline at 1-800-800-5556. You may be the only one that child can count on. *Information courtesy of CAPS

F

YAY FOR E A R T H D AY !

You don’t need to give up your cell phone and live in the woods to help out Mother Nature. Here are some tips from Evelyn Kirkwood, director of St. Joseph County Parks, about ways to be greener this year: • Water the yard less frequently, but water deeply in warm weather. Or consider not watering and letting your lawn go dormant. That means less mowing, too!

• Transporting food uses lots of smogproducing fuel. Buy locally-produced foods or grow your own.

• Plant native perennials and shrubs.

They require less watering and help important pollinators such as honeybees and birds.

SONGS WE CAN’T GET OUT OF O U R H E A D S !

Crazy Girl – Eli Young Band Honey Bee – Blake Shelton Arms – Christina Perri Freedom – Akon Chasing Pavements – Adele We Found Love – Rihanna Stronger – Kelly Clarkson

LOO K S C A N B E D E C E I V I N G Luther looks like a mean dog, especially since he has no ears, but he is friendly with both people and other dogs. He is a 2-year-old neutered Pitbull-Terrier mix that was brought in to the Humane Society of Elkhart County as a stray.

Due to chronic ear infections, his ears were actually removed and the skin sewn shut. He does, however, recognize tones and has no idea he is any different from other dogs! Come meet him today!

8 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

EASY EASTER EGGS! Amy Clark of momadvice.com has a fun and incredibly simply way to decorate your Easter eggs this month. Kool-Aid mix! For bright eggs, all you need to do is add a cup of cold water to a packet of mix. As Amy discovered, kids love to experiment with all the mix colors and enjoyed guessing as to what color their weird combinations would make. So grab some Kool-Aid and skip the egg kit this year!

W H AT ’ S C OOL R I G H T N O W ?

Rubber Boots! Like these adorable Women’s Merona Zora Rain Boots from Target in Goshen, only $32.99!

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Administrative Professionals Day

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“The British are coming!”

In 1775, Paul Revere rides into Lexington, Mass.

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Goodwill’s Little Black Dress Fashion Show at Windsor Park Conference Center in Mishawaka

Hug a Tree! It’s Earth Day!

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pR E S C H OOL P R E P T I P !

Is your kid gearing up for preschool or daycare? If so, find out ahead of time when the preschool has their rest or naptimes. It might be a good idea to move your child’s nap time at home to match the preschool’s, which will help prepare her for the new routine!

Don’t Have a Green Thumb?

No worries! Don Vite of Vite Greenhouses shared three easyto-grow plants for you to try out this spring. Why are they so easy?

Well, they don’t take much water!

And lack of proper watering is the number one reason many people kill their plants.

Sedum It’s a succulent, meaning it holds moisture in the leaves.

QUICKIE EGG SALAD RECIPE Carnations/Dianthus/Sweet William: These guys are tough!

Gazanias You’ll love this one for its colorful blooms.

Serves 4

8 hardboiled eggs Miracle Whip Light Bread and Butter Pickle Juice Yellow Mustard Salt and Pepper, to taste Place week-old eggs into cold water in non-aluminum pan.

Bring to a boil, turn off, cover and allow to sit for 8 minutes.

Run under cold water, removing shells. Allow eggs to cool.

Slice the eggs into a bowl and add enough Miracle Whip Light to coat. Add about 1 teaspoon yellow mustard and 2 teaspoons pickle juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. Chill thoroughly and serve with bread or crackers, or on a bed of lettuce. *Recipe from Diane Fisher, owner of Catering By Design, LLC

MARK YOUR CALENDARS YMCA Healthy Kids Day! Drag the kids off the couch, pry the game controllers out of their stiff fingers and get them moving at Healthy Kids Day at the YMCA of Elkhart County! It’s a free, funfilled day of activities designed to promote healthy kids and families in spirit, mind and body. There will be tons of activities your kids will love including Peter Nester, the Jump Rope master shows, Healthworks Hummer, Family Fun Run, Inflatables, Police K-9 demonstrations, scuba lessons, vision screenings, and lots of kid friendly vendors and demos. The event is on Saturday, April 14, From 10 AM to 1 PM. If you’re looking for more info, call 574.389.7878 or visit elkhartymca.org.

Natural Living Health Fair On Saturday April 14 in New Buffalo, Michigan, Customs Imports and The Wellness Center will join forces to bring the first annual Natural Living Health Fair. From 11 AM to 4 PM, Eastern Time. Visitors can browse the services and products offered throughout Harbor Country. Enjoy a free yoga class, free massage and more! The first 50 people to check in at the event will receive a free goody bag filled with natural products, samples and coupons! Door prizes will be awarded throughout the event as well as free workshops, classes and demos! Event and workshop admission is free, but donations are welcome as 100% of net proceeds from the event will benefit HELP for Southwest Michigan. For more information, please visit wix.com/ros777/ naturallivinghealthfair or call 219.861.3707.

THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

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live your book reviews best

Star Wars: Darth Plagueis

By James Luceno

Reviewed by Michael Zeiger Reference Librarian Harris Branch of the Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library The latest entry in the “Expanded Universe” of Star Wars fiction is well-timed. “New York Times” bestselling author James Luceno’s “Darth Plagueis” arrived near the 3-D theatrical release of the popular space opera’s “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” in February. While intertwining in terms of plot and chronology, Luceno’s novel and Lucas’ film cater to very different audiences.

“Plagueis” serves as a direct lead-in to “Episode I,” revealing, with equal parts political intrigue and atmospheric noir, a sinister complexity lurking beneath the comparatively confectionary family film.

As the latest devotee to a thousand-year-old revenge plot to destroy the corrupt Galactic Republic and its ineffectual Jedi Knight protectors, the clandestine Sith lord, Darth Plagueis, embarks on an epic quest to defy his order’s tradition of succession and achieve supremacy over death itself. Will Plagueis attain immortality, or will his own disciple, the cunning Palpatine, prove to be his undoing?

Luceno deftly charts the ascendancy and downfall of the titular villain-as-protagonist with remarkable ease and an astounding amount of contextual research. Having been given only the briefest, tantalizing mention in 2005’s “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith,” Luceno transforms Plagueis from a throwaway line into a key for unlocking some of the franchise’s lingering questions including, most notably, the mysteries of the Sith themselves.

Adult and mature teen readers looking for greater substance to shore-up the “Star Wars” prequels will similarly enjoy Luceno’s earlier prequel tie-in efforts, “Cloak of Deception” (2001) and “Labyrinth of Evil” (2005). Due to the sheer amount of pre-existing lore it assimilates, “Darth Plagueis,” like the most rewarding “Star Wars” fiction, remains best recommended to the films’ most inquisitive fans.

The Mother-Daughter Book Club

By Heather Vogel Frederick Reviewed by Melissa “The Mother-Daughter Book Club” is a superb book written by Heather Vogel Frederick. This wonderful book is about four middle school girls, Cassidy, Jess, Emma and Megan.

In this realistic fiction, each chapter is from a different girl’s perspective. The girls all live in the historical town of Concord, Massachusetts. Jess Delaney lives on Half Moon Farm with her younger twin brothers, mother and father, and her beloved dog Sugar. Cassidy loves hockey, and she is a very relaxed young lady. Her mom is a gorgeous woman on a cooking show, so there are always things going on at her house. Emma’s mother is a librarian, and her brother Darcy and her get along beautifully. Emma has read just about every book on the planet, and she is in all advanced classes. Megan Wong is a very popular girl and is a part of the group called “The Fab Four.” Her father is a scientist and her family is very wealthy. The “Queen Bee” of the Fab Four, Becca Chadwick, has taken over Megan, who used to be the other girls’ friends.

The four girls all go to Walden Middle School. Their mothers make the girls do a book club together. The girls unwillingly go. Emma’s mother heads up the book club. They learn about Louisa May Alcott, and they read some of her books. Each week, it is at a different girl’s home.

This book is admirable and well-written because it shows how each girl feels. It pertains to every young middle school girl. It is humorous, and the text is not at all confusing. Heather Vogel Frederick makes it easy to understand the girls’ feelings toward each other. Any young middle school girl would love this book. At the end of the book, the girls all become friends again, and the book tells of their adventures throughout middle school and the trials that they go through.

The book is a beautiful picture of real friendship. “The Mother-Daughter Book Club” is one of the very best books that you will ever read.

My name is Melissa. I am the seventh of nine siblings – three brothers and five sisters. I have a black Labrador named Cache’ (ka-shay). I enjoy singing, horses, reading, writing, spending time with my family and friends, playing the French horn, the color purple and praising Jesus.

10 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

For All That You Aspire To...

Your Family Belongs HERE!

Family Memberships on sale now!

Call 574 233 9471 or visit www.mykroc.org

THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

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family safety

Have a Safe

Spring Break Tips to Ensure Your Vacation Stays Cool and Breezy

By Sgt. William Redman

Hotel reservations, airfare, rental car, meals – all are important considerations when planning a vacation. Whether it’s fun in the sun, skiing down white snowy slopes or visiting a historic monument, it’s imperative to consider the safety of yourself and your family while on your trip as well as and the safety of your home and possessions while you’re away.

As you make plans for spring break vacation, don’t overlook simple and effective ways to safeguard your family and your property.

Sadly, there are criminal predators that are skilled and ready to take advantage of an opportunity. In past years, we at the police department have seen many people fall victim to property crimes by not protecting themselves. But with a little thought and planning, and by following the tips below, you can help prevent your spring break from taking a turn for the worse.

Get a House Sitter

Consider getting a house sitter to stay at your home while you’re gone.

Your friends and family may welcome the opportunity to kick up their feet and relax in a new venue, and simply having someone present in the home can be a deterrent for those looking to cause trouble. Even if getting a house sitter isn’t an option, ask a friend or neighbor to keep an eye on your home and to report any suspicious activity.

Make Money Plans

If you’re traveling domestically, make sure you go to your bank before you leave to get cash and avoid ATM fees. Also, consider travelers checks. If you carry cash, only carry a limited amount and avoid flashing money around while you’re exploring your vacation spot.

12 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

The List

It never hurts to be prepared for any contingency. Have an emergency list of bank accounts and credit card numbers in case your cards or travelers checks are lost or stolen. If anything does go wrong on your trip, you’ll want quick access to your information in order to lessen the damage.

Don’t Blast it

While you and your family are no doubt excited about the upcoming trip, be sure to tell the kids, and remind yourself, not to post your vacation plans onto social networking sites. This information isn’t always as private as you might like it to be, and the wrong person learning that you’re out of town could lead to an unwanted visitor.

Connected to this point, watch what you say on voicemail or answering machines. Your message could tip off a thief that you’re away from home.

Act Natural

While you’re away on your trip, you’ll want your home to look as though you never left. Leave all window coverings the way you always have them. Just make sure no valuables are in plain view.

Another sign of an empty home is a full mailbox or newspaper box.

Ask someone to gather your mail and newspaper, or ask for delivery to stop while you’re gone.

Let There Be Light!

Consider placing interior and exterior lights on timers to ward off unwanted visitors. No criminal wants to be seen in the act. And having lights on timers also gives the illusion that someone is at home.

Batten Down the Hatches

This goes without saying, but it’s something that could get overlooked while in the rush of leaving for your trip. Make sure all doors and windows are locked. We recommend using deadbolt locks and holding bars on sliding doors.

32 Pearls

The Vacation Watch List

T Conservative

While you’re away, you can contact your local police agency and place your home on a vacation watch list. A patrol car will periodically drive by to check on your home, and homeowners can leave their contact information with the department so that they may be reached in case of an emergency.

Residents that live in the county (outside the city limits) may call the St. Joseph County Police Department at 574.235.9611 to be placed on their vacation watch list. All other residents will need to contact their local police agency.

Family Dentistry...

Treating Patients Of All Ages

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Sgt. William Redman is a 17-year veteran police officer, a patrol officer, a 14year DARE officer, and public information officer with the St. Joseph County Police. He is married to Kim and has four daughters, Kenzie and Kait (19 year-old twins), Kara (18), and Kami (13).

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www.goodwill-ni.org THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

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2/20/12 11:16:58 PM

From One Recreational Gardener to Another

family fun

Tips to Help You Grow a Garden!

By Jennifer Crutchfield

Whether we believe it or not, spring is finally here!

And with spring here in Michiana, you might be asking yourself if this is the year you finally plant your dream garden. Or are you just now ready to step up your gardening game? No matter what your skill level or interest, gardening can be fun and “fruitful.”

In order to begin your gardening adventure, you’ll have to decide what to plant in your yard. One super easy way to make that decision is to visit the Farmer’s Market in the spring. Take a look at the plants available and talk to the vendors about your yard. They’ll be able to help you choose plants that will do well in your garden based upon whether you have full sun or shade. You’ll also need to decide if you want annuals or perennials.

For you garden beginners: Annuals = They must be replanted each year. Some examples in Michiana would be impatiens, begonias and marigolds.

Perennials = Plants that will come back year after year. Some examples in Michiana would be hostas, black-eyed susan, coneflower (Echinacea), sedums, lilies and bulbs (tulips, hyacinths, daffodils).

Also consider if you want plants that will give you beautiful flowers or fantastic foliage year round. While some plants offer both, many plants specialize in one or the other. We have several shrubs in our yard that I actually love best in the winter because their empty stems maintain a rich red color in our drab winter yard.

14 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

When to start your garden is always a tricky question as well. It’s important to wait to put delicate plants out after the final hard frost in your area. That can be a tough one to guess in Michiana, but it’s usually safe after mid-May. I consider my “official” garden season to last from Mother’s Day to Labor Day. We buy beautiful annual impatiens to give color to the yard as my Mother’s Day gift. Then on Labor Day weekend, we clean everything up so that all the work is done before the weather starts to turn cold. Last season, the final clean up happened in December at my house. So much for my traditional Labor Day clean up!

Better Eat, and Grow, Your Veggies!

Flowers aren’t your only option when it comes to gardening. If you’re interested in starting a simple vegetable garden this year, here’s what I would suggest from my personal gardening experience in Michiana: Cucumbers Remember they grow on vines, so give them something sturdy to cling to as they grow up. (Buy plants for best results.)

Tomatoes The smaller cherry varieties always grow the best for us. And little kids love to pick them and eat them right in the garden. Larger varieties don’t always do as well, but for the inexpensive prices you’re paying for plants, they are always worth a try. (Buy plants for best results.)

Zucchini These are the kings of the easy growers in my opinion. If your experience is anything like mine, the zucchinis in your yard will grow bigger than any you’ve ever seen in the grocery store. By the end of the growing season, you’ll be sharing them with neighbors and cooking up zucchini cookies, bread and fritters. (Buy plants for best results.)

Beans You can find beans in either bush or vine varieties. I prefer the vine varieties because they’ve done the best in my yard. Also, beans are very easy to grow from seeds.

(Buy plants or seeds.)

Cilantro There is nothing better than making fresh salsa with tomatoes and cilantro from your own backyard. The cilantro in our yard was planted as seeds. It comes back every year and spreads more than we want it to. We’ve shared it with friends and still have more than we need. (Buy plants or seeds)

Some plants have never done well in my yard: Peppers: We love peppers. My kids eat them like candy, but I can’t grow them in my yard to save my life. I don’t know if it’s been the weather or the amount of sunlight, but peppers will not grow in my yard.

Strawberries: Even though I live a stone’s throw from the area’s famous pick-your-own strawberry farm, I have never been successful growing strawberries in my own yard. Go figure.

Onions: I would love for these to work so I could make an entire batch of salsa from the ingredients in my yard, but I just never know when they’re ready.

They always seem to be too small or to grow too big and start to rot. Obviously, this is more of a gardener problem than a garden issue, so maybe this will be the year my onions are awesome!

After starting with those almost-guaranteedto-grow five, go ahead and choose one of your family’s favorite veggies and plant it this year.

The truth is you never know how well a crop will grow in your yard until you give it a try.

Everybody who wants to can grow some sort of garden. The taste of a sun warmed tomato eaten while standing in your own garden is simply indescribable. It’s like eating a little bit of sunshine. I hope you’ll grow your own garden this year, whether it’s edible or just for show. Please share your photos with the magazine through Instagram (#michmag) so I can see how it goes!

Jennifer Crutchfield is a mom, wife, reader, organizer, social media geek, and crafter who loves to share what she learns.

THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

15

family frugal

How to Ditch Your Cable Bill

By Amy Allen Clark

A few months ago, our family made the radical decision to turn off our cable television. It might not seem like a radical decision to you, but for a family of self-proclaimed television junkies, it felt like a bold move to call our television provider and tell them that we were ready to cancel.

With so many fantastic options available to families, it is much easier to say no to cable thanks to online television and innovative ways to indulge in your favorite shows. It might surprise you that this article is not about getting rid of your television and singing Kumbaya because our lives are so much better without TV. No, we still love our television. Instead, I want to share how to get your fix for less and how to slash your cable expenses for good!

Players

Roku Player (starting at $49.99) For families who don’t have a gaming system to view television through (like the Xbox, Wii or PlayStation 3) this little box is a wonderful option. Your Roku hooks up to your television and allows you to play subscription-based programs like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Go, and Amazon Instant Video on your TV. Your Roku player can hook up to your home entertainment system and give your entire family the opportunity to watch something together on the couch rather than sitting around your laptop.

16 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

The only downfall with the product is that you really need to have a high speed internet connection, as with most streaming options.

With a DSL connection, we found that the viewing can be a little bit like watching something on YouTube.

The Roku Player is surprisingly easy to use and simple to integrate into any home entertainment system. The interface is extremely clear, and hook up took literally a couple of minutes. For homes with wireless Internet connectivity, the player is Wi-Fi enabled and offers the ultimate in placement flexibility. With the player’s accompanying remote control, members can browse and make selections right on the TV screen and also have the option to pause, rewind or play your favorite shows anytime, just like a DVD. There are no monthly fees attached to the Roku Player, but it enables you to watch your shows and online subscriptions in one place.

This is the player that we use in our own home, and we have no complaints. There are other similar products on the market like the Apple TV and the Boxee Box, but I love the affordability of the Roku Player and what viewing options are available on it.

Game Consoles (around $149-$300) Game consoles can be a wonderful bang for your buck because they offer unlimited entertainment through gaming as well as a platform

for you to watch your favorite shows and movies. It is important to make the right investment for your family when choosing whether you want the Wii, the PlayStation 3, or the Xbox 360 based on your own family’s entertainment needs. It is also important to understand what is included with each gaming console and what extra expenses you may have later down the line.

Our family loves playing games together, and having a gaming system has been a great way for us to spend time together. Also, we have never bought a full price gaming system and have had great success finding used consoles for half that of the retail price. Not only have we found our consoles for less, but when we have found these units on Craigslist, the sellers are usually getting rid of their games, controllers and accessories and will sell them for a fraction of the retail price.

We use both our Wii and Xbox 360 for streaming Netflix and watching Hulu Plus. Both of them are fantastic for this purpose as well as fun weekend entertainment for us as a family.

Channel & Movie Subscription Options

Play On ($29.99 annually or $4.99 a month) Play On is an easy way for you to watch your favorite videos, shows and movies from websites such as Netflix, Hulu, YouTube and more on your TV. This is done using your Wii, Xbox 360, or PlayStation 3 over your home internet connection. PlayOn also works on your iPhone or Android phone.

When we turned off our cable, we were missing some of our favorite shows on some of the channels we watched. Play On is almost like having a cable subscription without the outrageous price since they offer many channels that you would only get with a premium cable package. Hulu Plus offers many of the same networks, but not necessarily the same shows that are available on the network.

My children love to watch PBS and Nick. With Play On, we have found many of their favorite shows, and the cost is an affordable one at less than $30 a year (or a fraction of one month of your cable television).

Hulu Plus ($7.99 per month) The majority of our TV-watching is now done through Hulu Plus, and we absolutely love it. We have beautiful HD television, something we couldn’t afford with our cable bill, and almost all of our favorite shows are available through Hulu Plus.

Hulu Plus lets you watch current and back season TV shows and acclaimed movies anytime in HD for $7.99 per month with limited advertising. For many popular shows on their service, Hulu Plus offers every episode of the current season, not just a handful of recent episodes.

Hulu Plus can be viewed on multiple devices, including your laptop, the Apple iPad and iPhone, PlayStation 3, Roku and TVs and Bluray players from Sony, Samsung and Vizio. You can also watch shows for free through Hulu and not buy the Hulu Plus membership.

The main difference between your free television experience and the paid subscription is how you view it. With Hulu Plus, you can take advantage of the multiple viewing devices, but with the free membership, your viewing is limited to your PC. Netflix ($7.99 a month) The other streaming membership that gets a workout in our family is our Netflix membership. Although I feel that the quality of the movies

and shows available on Netflix has been deteriorating in the past few months, we still get our money’s worth from this membership.

For $7.99 a month, Netflix members can instantly watch unlimited movies and TV episodes streamed over the internet to PCs, Macs and TVs. Among the large and expanding base of devices streaming from Netflix are gaming systems like the Xbox 360, the Wii and PlayStation 3; an array of Blu-ray players, internet-connected TVs, home theater systems, digital video recorders and the list goes on.

Our family relies on this for our weekend family nights. My husband and I use this for our documentary fix while the kids enjoy many of their favorite seasons of Disney and Nick Jr. shows.

Digital Antenna (about $12-$50) When I say the word antenna, do you think of those giant rabbit ears? I did, too. You won’t believe how far those rabbit ears have come and how elegant your antenna can now look. Your friends will never know that you are one of “those people” watching television on their rabbit ears.

With a good digital antenna, it is possible to get dozens of local channels in HD with this small investment. It is worth it to make a good investment in your digital antenna if you are relying upon this for your television because a better quality one is able to pick up a wider range of channels in your area.

We found our digital antenna for less on eBay, and we use this for watching things like the Super Bowl and other shows we prefer to watch live. I am always so impressed at the quality of the picture we can get through this, and I love that we no longer have to pay “The Man” for our local channels.

So, Is It All Worth It?

After three months of being without our cable, I can honestly admit to you that there are definitely moments that I do miss. I miss my Food Network. I miss HGTV. I miss the convenience of our DVR taping endless shows for me. I miss my Cupcake Wars marathons with my daughter on Sunday afternoons.

There are also things I don’t miss. I don’t miss feeling like I needed to be a slave to my television to make the most of our dollars. I don’t miss paying nearly a hundred dollars a month. I don’t miss paying for something so darn useless.

Life does feel a little bit richer. Now that we don’t have a DVR we have to catch up on, we are spending more evenings together playing games, doing puzzles, going on outings together and just focusing on being with each other a little more.

Maybe turning the cable off really is radical. It feels that way.

The money that has been freed up gives us the chance to put an allowance towards other things we might want to do as a family.

All that said – we still love our television. We just love it in a different way than before.

Amy Allen Clark: Foodie. Bookworm. Novice photographer. Java junkie. Knitter & hot glue gun toting extraordinaire. A lover of the simple and family-centered life. Happily living this contented existence within a penny-wise budget and showcasing it on momadvice.com.

THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

17

family boomers

Staying Socially Connected

And Creating a Meaningful Retirement

Retirement is not an event. It is a series of stages or processes. Retirement is a period of time where a person seeks to reinvent themselves.

What will you do when you retire? What will you do to live a life full of purpose and passion in your retirement years? It is time to bring out that bucket list and make plans for the future!

There are many ways older adults can remain socially connected in their communities once they have left the work force. Connections are more important in the later years of life when so many losses occur. There is hope. With the new found freedoms and more time on your hands, you have the ability to expand your horizons.

Pack Your Backpack: You’re Going Back to School!

Whether you want to earn a degree, finish your GED, or learn a new skill or computer program, returning to school is becoming increasingly popular among older adults. There are many courses offered just for seniors at community colleges and through universities.

For example, Forever Learning Institute in South Bend provides continuing intellectual challenge, spiritual reflection and social interaction with ongoing classes and courses designed for people over the age of 50. Goshen College offers the Lifelong Learning Institute, which has mini-courses for senior adults in Elkhart County (age 55 and older). And Ivy Tech Community College offers qualified Indiana senior citizens an opportunity to enroll in credit courses at the college free of charge on a space available basis.

Don Those Sneakers and Get Your Move On!

Increasing your activity level is more important now than ever.

Incorporating a fitness routine helps maintain joint and muscle health as well as strength, flexibility and balance. Senior fitness classes are available in nearly every community in senior centers, the YMCA and in local workout facilities.

18 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

By Tricia Gorden

Dig Out Those Suitcases: You Have Places to Go!

Was travelling the world on your bucket list? Planning for those trips with a travel agency while healthy ensures you will see what you want to see before it is too late. Computer savvy? Try researching your destination online and putting together a getaway package.

There are many older adult and senior friendly trips offered through your bank, travel agencies and senior groups.

Time to Give of Your Time!

You don’t want to “work” but you want to give back to your community. There are many ways to volunteer your time. Of course, volunteering at the hospital, your local area agency on aging, as a foster grandparent, or at your church might give you back what employment once offered.

See Your World Through a Different Pair of Glasses!

A retiree might want to explore a new hobby or interest such as painting or photography. The local art gallery may offer painting classes, pottery, jewelry making, scrapbooking and the like. Check out your local library for classes on photography, art or writing your own book.

If you’re looking for a place to start, St. Joseph County Libraries always offer introductions to different hobbies and crafts in addition to literacy programs. The county parks and recreation facilities also provide classes such as these in addition to their exercise programs.

Meet Someone New or Connect with Someone You Knew!

There are Senior Centers offering nutritious lunches, educational programs, and games. They are great way to meet others. Many offer classes too for enriching your brain and keeping your body active.

Now that there is more time on your hands, why not reconnect with friends you lost track of? Perhaps you can go out for lunch and

compare notes on grandparenting. Staying connected to friends, seeking intellectual stimulation and eliminating stress can maintain and even improve your brain functions as you age. REAL Services/Area 2 Agency on Aging operates 39 nutrition sites in Elkhart, Marshall, St. Joseph, La Porte, and Kosciusko counties. These sites provide a balanced, nutritious hot noon meal for anyone over the age of 60 regardless of income.

The bottom line is this: staying active and involved in your community is good for you. Your brain does not stop yearning for more experiences just because you stopped working and retired. Keeping an emotionally rich and stimulating environment ensures that your retirement years will be filled with stories, friends and experiences that you can share with generations to come.

Tricia Gorden is the director of training and community resources at REAL Services, Inc. (Area 2 Agency on Aging) in South Bend. She is a certified Medicaid Waiver Case Manager and a Volunteer Counselor under the auspices of the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Tricia was designated a Certified Senior Advisor in December 2009.

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www.novabella.com THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

19

32 Pearls

15045 State Road 23 Granger, IN 46530 574.855.3829 32pearlsfamilydentistry.com

Hey Kids!

Color this page and 3 coloring winners will each receive a $25 gift value of a $15 gift certificate, dental hygiene kit and electric toothbrush from 32 Pearls Family Dentistry! One winner will be selected from each of the three following age categories: 3-5, 6-9 and 10-12 years of age.

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

For your chance to WIN, color your best picture and mail or drop entries to: 32 PEARLS FAMILY DENTISTRY • 15045 State Road 23 • Granger, IN 46530. -- Coloring contest is open to children 12 years and under, and entries must be mailed or dropped by May 2nd. Winners will be notified via phone or email service by 32 Pearls Family Dentistry by May 12th, and their artwork will be featured in an upcoming issue along with their first name, age and city. For additional coloring contest entries, this coloring page may be photocopied and printed off.

32 Pearls

15045 State Road 23 Granger, IN 46530 574.855.3829 32pearlsfamilydentistry.com

A V F J G L D Z T F S T B Q J Q O Y W Y

T A P H O R F S E I E N J Y S G F P C P

N O R C O P I H S L L A H C U H A R E J

R Z O R E N K E Y L I T H G K G V M X E

P F R T E D A W T I M S C E J F P B E C

Have Fun! Teeth Pearls Toothbrush Floss Mouthwash Fluoride 22 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

K I B I H L I P W N S I H Y P A Z R O H

M K G Q A B D R V G J S A R Q H F M A F

Z Y R N N Y R E O R G S R G K X T F V L

H S T T O Y S U N U W A T J Z A C E I I

G N I N A E L C S T L M X Y F H T G E X

M O U T H W A S H H I F R R P P H O E T

Q S R S S O L F C C Z S T B A T B D T D

B C M A H P B E J S U R T C G Y Q G Z S

G C A G S U Y N Z W X H R B J T E L P T

F A D T H B P Y P E A R L S R Y W M I C

Find the words below in the 32 Pearls Family Dentistry Crossword puzzle.

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

Sealant Filling Cleaning Mirror Light Xray

Chart Toys Smiles Dentist Hygienist Assistant

start your team at marchforbabies.org start your team at marchforbabies.org

© 2012 March of Dimes Foundation

St. Joseph County Saturday, April 21, 2012

College Football Hall of Fame, South Bend 9-10am Registration/10:30am Walk Begins

Elkhart County

Saturday, April 21, 2012

NIBCO Water & Ice Park, Elkhart 9-10am Registration/10:30am Walk Begins

La Porte County

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Bluhm Park, Westville 1:00pm Registration/2:00pm Walk Begins

www.facebook.com/marchofdimesindiana • @MOD_MIchianaTHE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012 23

24 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

Please Join us for Bike the Bend!

BtB

BtB

An urban bike tour for riders of all ages and skill levels, riding side by side with family and friends Approximately 35 miles (round trip) on vehicle restricted streets and trails in South Bend, Mishawaka and St. Joseph County

BtB

Ride as much ... or as little as you like

BtB

Please visit www.BiketheBend.com

You are invited to a

Trunk Show featuring LINDBERG

Saturday, April 14th Noon – 5:00pm

5323 N. Main St. at Main St. & Douglas.

Next to Starbucks www.eyesiteinc.com • 574.273.2727

Optical Boutique THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

25

family features

Child Care & Preschools

First Goodbyes Sending Your Little One to Day Care and Preschool

By Meagan Church

Krista Heroman recently registered her son for full-day kindergarten and got a bit of a surprise. Even though her older son started kindergarten last year, she suddenly found herself overwhelmed by emotion and the thought that her youngest was old enough for school. “Sam is completely ready to head to kindergarten both academically and socially. It is me who now has to figure out the next chapter in my life.”

Even though the first day of school is months away, she couldn’t help but consider what it will be like. “I think the hardest part for me will be watching both of them get on the bus in the morning and watching them drive away.

Up until this point, Sam has spent most of his learning moments with me or at a preschool where I know most of the kids and their parents. It will be a whole new ballgame.”

The Reality

It’s a very familiar ballgame to every parent who has said goodbye to their child for the first time, whether that be at the first day care drop off or the first day of school. Jennifer Heims experienced it when her 7-week-old daughter first started day care. “I thought I was prepared. I did my research on day cares, schedules, staff and more, but when it came down to it, I had no idea how hard it would be to leave her.” She went on to say, “I pretty much cried all morning from shower at home until mid-morning when I got focused on work and the things I missed while on leave.” She explained that by the end of the week, she was shedding only a few tears.

Jennifer admitted that she can be a bit emotional, but even parents who think they are prepared for that initial separation are sometimes surprised. When Dawn Kaley found out she was pregnant, she and her husband began searching for a day care. “I didn’t think too much of it at the time, as I came from a family where both parents worked.

I had heard of women having an emotional rollercoaster with this, but was sure this was not going to be me as I loved my work.”

When her son was 9-weeks-old, she took him to day care for the first time. “I was surprised by the sadness I felt when dropping him off, especially when he got older and learned to cry when I left. It pulls on your heart strings.”

26 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

The Preparations

When it came time for Audra Cantrell-Cox’s children to start school, she decided to delay that first goodbye. She home-schooled both of her children for preschool and her daughter for kindergarten. “I really went with my instincts on school with the kids and sending them when they were ready,” she says.

The day did come when she sent her daughter and then finally her son to school. “It’s such an odd thing. You bring these little creatures into the world and you are solely responsible for them and then they crawl and then walk and then run away, always coming back to you, their parent, their center. And then you send them off to someone else. It is so hard to give over that control, but looking back, I know he was ready, and it was the best thing for him.”

So what can help a parent through that initial separation?

“To prepare yourself, bring tissue, and try to focus on the positive fact that this is part of the evolution of his life, that this is a special and good day for him, even though it may not be for you,” Audra explains. “And try not to focus on the idea that you are losing your baby, or that your child is growing up. Of course, it’s okay to acknowledge it, as it’s the truth, but it won’t make you feel any better dwelling on it. I just kept telling myself that I would feel like

Kids like

a failure as a mother if my son was 40 and still living at home, and that I had to trust my instincts that he was ready to go. It was a rite of passage like all the others he had and will experience.”

To help get through that first morning, Audra said she went on a special date. “My husband and I took him to school together, and then we made plans to go out to breakfast afterward. It’s hard to break down in a public place, so that was a good idea.”

Growing Kids Summer Camp

because every day is packed with fun!

Parents like it because it’s a real value.

Summer Camp at Growing Kids provides older preschoolers and school aged children with a full-day program of activities all summer long. It’s fun – and affordable. ALL INCLUSIVE weekly rates start as low as $130!

We fill the summer with fun and educational activities including three field trips a week. The kids pick strawberries, go bowling, enjoy rollerskating, even take swimming lessons! And your child will enjoy a nutritious breakfast and lunch as well as snacks each day.

When Jennifer’s daughter first started day care, she had her husband do the drop off because she knew she would be too emotional. Now, she tries to build extra time with her daughter into each day. “I actually get up a little earlier so that I can get around and ready to go – that way I can spend some time with her before we leave. I also have plenty of time to drop her off, so I can chat with her teacher. If she does have a clingy morning, I can take some time to play a little until we are both good with me leaving.”

Call the center of your choice to learn more.

5 Centers

Four Years in a Row!

The Future

The question is: will it get easier? Not according to Erin Ecker, local mom of 5- and 7-year-old boys. “Even now if I drop them off at school, it’s like having a piece of my heart pulled out as they shut the car door, walk away and run into this whole different world. The bus is actually easier because when they walk out the door, it’s like they are going out to play for a while. I think when you drop them off, you just see the years flash by, and it’s more real that they are growing up and becoming young men.”

Jennifer can relate. She has been taking her daughter to day care for nearly two years now. While she has gotten past the emotions of the first day, she says, “There are a lot of times that by Friday I am ready to spend the weekend with her and sneak out a bit early from work to go get her!”

Perhaps it will never be easy to say goodbye.

After all, as Dawn points out, “Babies definitely turn your world upside down and make you reorganize your priorities.”

www.GrowingKids.com

Making a Difference one child at at a time Making a Difference one child at a time Since 1987

Since 1987 • Exceptional Care: Teachers with positive, loving attitudes who engage in quality interactions • Learning Environment: A Planned curriculum designed to enhance your child’s love of learning while guiding your child to school readiness

An independent, family-owned child care experience unlike any other.

Stop by and see why Parents prefer Friends School and Day Care!

• Safety: All Staff CPR & 1st Aid Certified • Full and part time • Care for Infants through Pre-K • Before and after school care • Summer Camp

53061 Nadine Street South Bend, IN 46637

Phone: 574-271-1885 • Reading program www.friendsdaycare.com • Two week swim lessons Bring this ad and we will waive the enrollment fee! (good for new enrollments only) State Licensed • Weekly field trips • Providing Quality Child-centered Programs • Age appropriate activities

in a Clean & Caring Enviroment

• Offering programs for children 6 weeks through 12 years of age

Meagan Church is a writer and mother of 2.5 kids. Her current projects include DefiningMotherhood, and Unexpectant where she explores the realities of modern motherhood for her book project.

• N. Bendix Dr., South Bend – 288-3992 • SR 23 @ Douglas, South Bend – 273-9048 • Ireland Rd. @ Ironwood, South Bend – 299-4979 • W. Bristol & Edwardsburg, Elkhart – 266-1800 • Campbell @ Bullseye Lake Rd., Valpo – 219-462-7777

53061 Nadine Street South Bend, IN 46637 www.friendsdaycare.com Infant Building and Fax: 574.271.1885 Preschool Building: 574.273.1377

Program begins June 7 and ends when the children returns to school.

To register, stop in for a tour or call us at 574.271.1885.

THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

27

Child Care & Preschools To Preschool family features

and

Beyond

Starting preschool is a big milestone in your child’s life, and you want to make sure she starts her school career on the right path. After all, you have big dreams for her, and she can’t get into a good university without a strong foundation in reading, writing and arithmetic, so you better start now, right? Well, maybe not so much. I spoke with Sarah Walorski, primary guide at Good Shepherd Montessori School about some ways to prepare your preschooler for success.

Relax About the Academics

Our desire for our children’s success often plays out in our excitement when we see them write their name or count to 20. But academic skills shouldn’t be the focus of young learners. “At this age, learning is supposed to be joyful and exciting and kind of spontaneous” says Walorski, who suggests introducing numbers and letters in an informal way and making sure it doesn’t feel like a chore to the child.

She explains that preschoolers are refining all the things they learned in their first years of life like crawling, walking and talking. Your child has learned how to do so much in a short time and now he is taking these skills to the next level, and he does this best when he thinks he’s just playing and having fun.

Talk and Talk and Talk Some More

Sometimes it might feel like all you do is answer questions. (Where does rain come from? Do flowers sleep at night? What if dogs could 28 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

By Sarah Boulac

talk? Can I have a cookie?) You know preschoolers are curious. Take advantage of this and explore the things she is curious about. If she is curious about trees, then explore them with all of your senses and don’t be afraid to use terms like deciduous and photosynthesis. “I think sometimes we underestimate the abilities of younger children to learn more complicated names for things,” says Walorski, who uses the example of a child interested in dinosaurs and is able to distinguish between a Brachiosaurus and an Apatosaurus.

Sometimes you may need to do a little research yourself to help your child deepen her understanding of a topic. This level of engagement with her world makes “everything come alive” and ignites her passion for learning.

Go on Field Trips

You don’t need to plan elaborate outings to museums or galleries, though you certainly can. A simple trip to the grocery store or the library can be an awesome experience for a child. Include him in the shopping experience by talking through your list, giving him choices between which two kinds of cereal to buy and letting him take it off the shelf and put it in the cart. This not only gives him some responsibility so he feels helpful and important, but offers an opportunity to practice daily living skills that he’ll rely on long after his preschool days.

Visit the School

Attend any preschool orientation events your school offers to give your child a chance to see her new environment, meet her teacher and some of her future classmates. If your school doesn’t offer this, ask about taking a tour with your child or visiting the playground. This hands-on experience with the new school “takes away a lot of those fears of the unknown,” says Walorski. Talk with your child about what her day will be like and listen as she shares her thoughts.

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Licensed and Insured • Concessions • Concessions • Bouncers SumoWrestling Wrestling • •Sumo • Giant Slides Enjoy the Journey www.xtremefunparty.com 574-247-0657 • Concessions574-247-0657 “As adults we want to get to the end goal as Licensed and Insured Licensed and Insured • Sumo Wrestling fast as we can,” says Walorski. But children are more apt to stop and smell the roses. www.xtremefunparty.com “Children are such sensorial learners,” she www.xtremefunparty.com says. To a child, going on a walk is not just Licensed and Insured about getting from point A to point B, or about getting some exercise. It’s about experiencing the world, feeling the breeze, stopping to look at rocks, exploring a crack in the sidewalk, or literally smelling the flowers. Be aware of your child’s slower pace and give him this time to feed his natural curiosity.

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Foster Independence

Trying to get out of the house with a preschooler can be a trial of anyone’s patience, but it’s important to give your child the opportunity to do some things for herself. If you’re like me, you’re focused on getting everyone situated and out the door, but kids just don’t have the same sense of urgency, especially in the mornings it seems. “They might be fascinated with trying to tie their shoe for 10 or 15 minutes because they really are having fun with figuring out how to do it,” says Walorski.

And if it’s not the shoes, it’s the pants or the jacket or combing the hair. While allowing this extra time may not always be possible, it’s worth it when you see your child’s sense of accomplishment.

Sarah Boulac has an MA in psychology and specializes in educating parents and caregivers on infant and toddler care. Along with writing, in her free time she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children.

Summer Camps

INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS!

Week #1 "Journey through Prehistoric Animal Life"– June 11-15 Week #2 "Journey through the Stone Age"– June 18-22 Week #3 "Journey of the Pilgrims" – June 25-27 Week #4 "Journey to the Old West" – July 9-13 Week #5 "Journey of the Modernization of Transportation"– July 16-20 Week #6 "Journey through the Air"– July 23-27 Week #7 "Journey into Outer Space" – July 30 - August 3 Week #8 "Great Animal Migrations" – August 6-10 Week #9 "Journey into the Sea" – August 11-15

Speciality Camps (9 week sessions) Math Camp Science Camp Spanish Camp Art Camp Spalding Camp Soccer Camp (Reading and Writing Program) T-ball Camp Language Camp Survival Camp Full Day Camp – $180.00 per week, 7 am- 5:30 pm 5 Day Camp – $125.00 per week, 10 am- 3 pm 3 Day Camp – $90.00, 10 am- 3 pm

*$6.00 an hour for early or after camp care.

www.greatlakesmontessori.com 3084 Niles Road • St. Joseph, MI 49085 • 269.556.0354

THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

29

family features

Child Care & Preschools

Growing Up in Decorating Your Kid’s Bedroom

Style

By Jenny Mitschelen

“But didn’t I just paint that Peter Rabbit mural yesterday?”

Every parent has been there. It’s that poignant moment when you realize your child is beyond the toddler years. The nursery you so lovingly assembled will no longer do. The next design challenge is avoiding another full room makeover in a few short years.

they can easily exchange them for new ones. If space provides, add comfy seating in your child’s room that will invite cozying up with a book. Add a nightstand and a bedside lamp for bedtime reading.

The following tips will help you plan for a space that will easily adapt through the years as your child’s interests and needs change.

An important and often overlooked element of design is lighting. Start with a stylish overhead light that provides cheerful and adequate illumination. For a girl’s space, you may consider a shimmering chandelier, and for boys, some cool track or pendant lighting. You may opt to install recessed wall-washer or gallery lighting, which are designed to showcase wall art, trophies or awards. If your child has a desk, be sure to provide task lighting for writing and homework.

Wall sconces are a wonderful space-saving option for any nook that needs illumination.

Closet Systems

This is money well spent. You will not regret installing a system that will provide plenty of organized storage. This will help your child learn to find and put away clothing more independently each day. It is a great way to develop an appreciation for organization as well. A local interior designer or closet specialist can help you get started with a plan that fits your child’s unique needs.

Creative Storage

Lighting

Windows

Shelving units and storage cubbies work out great for kid spaces.

Purchase baskets, bins or buckets to stash and organize the parade of items that make their way into your child’s room. Go a step further and label these containers to help keep everything in its place. When children are young, it’s a great idea to have a toy box for quick pickup of larger toys. Preferably, this will be something that will grow with your child. Perhaps, consider using a wood chest with a cushion on top to double as seating. When it is no longer needed for toys, you may fill it with keepsakes, sweaters, sports gear – you name it!

The sky is the limit when it comes to dressing your windows. There are so many unique products available today that you are sure to find something to perfectly fulfill your child’s needs. Window shades can be customized in a variety of decorative fabrics, woven woods and a seemingly endless selection of other materials. You may specify the exact amount of light and even temperature control you wish to have in any space. Shades and draperies can be constructed to operate cordless or even by remote control. These options provide safety and ease of use. Seek assistance from a design professional about selecting the right style, fabric and operating system that will grow with your child.

Encourage Reading

Choose Furniture Wisely

Create space for favorite books! Choose storage that will work as your child moves from picture and board books to beginner level and onto chapter books. You may choose to use some of those bins or baskets for this. If you have more than one child, you may have a small library somewhere in your home. Establish a system for checking out books by purchasing a stylish and sturdy tote for each child. The totes can be filled with their reading choices and carried back to their rooms. When they are finished with their selections, 30 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

This is most likely where you will spend the most money in your child’s room. Purchase durable pieces that will grow with your child. Fantasy furniture, designed only for small children is outgrown in no time. It is much better to design for longevity and style that will grow with your child. Bunk bed and trundles are great for a shared space or for sleepover guests. Provide a space for personal grooming and further organization.

Purchase a dresser with a mirror or perhaps a sweet vanity for a girl.

Summer Camps 2012!

On Display

Every kid has a collection or an accumulation of photos, awards and other items. Pin and magnetic boards provide a place for displaying favorite things. Wall ledges are also wonderful for showcasing art, accessories and trophies. Consider purchasing or constructing a personalized system for your child. Collections and mementos can get out of control quickly.

Help your child choose their favorite items to display and store the rest in keepsake boxes or scrapbooks. This helps teach design restraint and control clutter.

Discover your world in the dunes!

Explore rivers, search for salamanders, play at a beautiful beach, hike through a national park & cool off in Lake Michigan.

Dunes Discovery Camp

For kids entering 4th – 7th grade Camp I: June 17 - 22 Camp II: June 24 - 29 Camp III: July 8 - 13 2012 Camp Cost: $340 ($320 if registered before April 30th)

Camp Open House

To meet with camp coordinators, tour facilities, and ask questions.

Sunday April 22nd 1-4pm Tuesday April 24th 3-6pm

Bedding

The focal point of any bedroom is, of course, the bed! It is also the place to begin your • Register now! Space is limited. Registrations will be taken on a first come-first serveddecorative basis. scheme and color palette for the • Complete the form below and send it with a non-refundable $50 deposit with room. Get your child involved in choosing this registration.

• Remaining information no later than three colorfees and andcompleted patterns thatpacket areare due personally weeks before camp begins.. appealing.

Choose wall color, • Also register online at www.duneslearningcenter.org. window treatment textiles and other design elements Early Bird Discount! $320 if registered April 30th, 2012. $340 afterwards inspired by the before bedding.

Color

Please indicate your 1st, 2nd, and 3rd choice of camp weeks.

Every effort will be made to accommodate your preference

2012 Summer Adventures in The Dunes

700 Howe Road Chesterton, IN 46304 219.395.9555 Overnight Summer Camps at To register please go to Indiana Dunesonline, National Lakeshore www.duneslearningcenter.org

Partner with the National Park Service

...where nature nurtures knowledge

Kids tend to be drawn to very bold color.

Dunes Discovery Camp I: June 17 - 22 However, it is not usually the best option for Dunes Discovery Camp II: June 24 - 29 walls, especially in a bedroom. Try to use Dunes Discovery Camp III: July 8 - 13 bold color in textiles and other elements rather than an entire room in it. You may Child’swrapping Name: even choose to have an accent wall painted Address: inCity/State/Zip: your favorite bright hue and paint the rest of Phone: the space in a more subdued complimentary Birth Date: F hue.

Also, consider the sunSex: andMwhether your Grade ( 2012-13 4th 5th 6th 7th ): School: space needs to feel warmed up with reds Parent Name(s): and oranges or cooled down with blues and Parent(s) Daytime/Cell: greens.

A professional color consultation will Email: help you get it right the first time.

Please make checks payable to Dunes Learning Center.

Visa

Mastercard (circle one)

Design for Longevity3-digit Code: Card#:

Avoid and Expires: characters Name on Card:themes, as kids will Amountgrow to charge surely out$ of superheroes and princesses SendLimit registration $50 deposit) to: to small in no time. those(and types of items DLC - Summer Camps • 700 Howe Rd. Chesterton, IN 46304 things like a throw pillow, nightlight or a small You may also register online at www.duneslearningcenter.org accessory. This is a guideline to follow for all things that are likely to be a passing phase or fad. Use only a few small pieces and rotate them out as your child’s tastes and interests change and mature.

219.395.9555 www.duneslearningcenter.org

Partner with the National Park Service

Jenny Mitschelen lives in Bridgman, Michigan, with her husband and three adorable children. Having studied interior design for 20 years, Jenny is a decorator and owner of a home based interior design franchise.

THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

31

family features

Child Care & Preschools

Keeping Bugs at Bay Tips to Help Keep Your Kids Healthy In Day Care & Preschool

By Dr. Charrise Johnson and Dr. Daniel Kinney

Children are naturally inquisitive about the world around them, taking “hands-on” learning to a whole new level. This is one of the most endearing and wonderful qualities about them and should be nurtured and encouraged on a daily basis. Yet, with this curiosity comes another thing they also like to share – germs.

There’s a really good chance that bacteria and viruses will be shared any time children congregate in settings such as day care, church, school or even family events. The larger the group of children that get together and the younger the children are, the more apt they are to spread germs.

While it may seem like a daunting task to keep germs at bay in a setting where sneezes and coughs are shared just as much as ideas, there are some tried-and-true ways you can help lower your child’s risk of getting sick at day care or school.

Do Your Own Homework

The first thing we ask parents to do is to review their child care’s illness policy. How sick is too sick for children to attend day care?

What are the symptoms to look for when deciding whether to bring them in or not? Your child’s risk of becoming ill is lowered if the day care’s policy follows recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). If your child is ill, it would be wise to consider keeping them at home. Once your child has the proper rest and care they need, they should be back up and running in no time.

You should also ask about your school’s policy on immunizations.

Are all children required to be up-to-date on vaccines? In the same manner, it’s equally important to make sure you keep your child’s immunizations current. It’s one of the very best ways you can ensure they are protected from preventable diseases. It also helps protect other children who are either too young or who can’t receive vaccines for other reasons. This includes getting your child the flu shot every year. Make sure to check with your pediatrician first, especially if your child has any allergies.

32 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

You should also check on some of the basics, such as the following: Is your day care licensed? Is the day care clean? Do they practice good hygiene and clean toys routinely to help prevent the spread of germs?

Lessons For Your Kids

Education is another tool in the fight to keep your child healthy all year long. Teach your children good hand washing techniques, such as using warm water and soap, and scrubbing thoroughly for the amount of time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song.

Encourage your child to wash their hands after using the restroom, before and after eating, and after anything that puts them into contact with potentially germ-laden objects such as animals and toys. If you practice and teach these habits to your child, they are likely to follow the same habits when they are in other settings.

One trick we tell children is that when using hand sanitizer in liquid form you should use the size of a quarter, and when using foam sanitizer, make it about the size of a golf ball. Just like washing hands, children should rub their hands together for the length of time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday.”

If you teach your children basic hygiene etiquette now, they are more likely to keep these habits as they grow older. Help prevent your child spreading illness by teaching them to cough into their arm (not their hands) and to avoid close contact with sick people. They should be taught the importance of hand washing, of not sharing cups, bowls or silverware, and they should feel comfortable encouraging others to do the same.

Infants and children with chronic conditions are at higher risk for getting sick. If your child has special considerations or other medical needs, please consult with your pediatrician to develop a plan to best protect your child.

And lastly, make sure your child eats healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables, and make sure they get enough sleep. This will help their immune system do its job properly.

A healthy lifestyle and staying up-to-date on vaccinations are the best ways to keep your family healthy.

Children are going to get sick, but by taking just a few special preventive steps, parents can help give their children the tools they need to stay healthy, happy and learning throughout the year.

Dr. Daniel Kinney received his medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis and completed his pediatric residency at Advocate Lutheran General Children’s Hospital in Park Ridge, IL. He received the Faculty Teaching Award for Outstanding Resident in Pediatrics from Chicago Medical School. He is a pediatrician at Memorial’s Navarre Pediatrics.

Dr. Charisse Johnson received her medical degree from the Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis and completed her residency in pediatrics at St. Vincent Hospitals in Indianapolis. In addition to being a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Dr. Johnson enjoys playing the violin and piano, singing and jigsaw puzzles. She is a pediatrician at Memorial’s Navarre Pediatrics.

Now Enrolling!

• Half Day and Full Day Preschool & Kindergarten Programs through 8th Grade • NLSA/NCA accredited • Before and after school care available

Visit our School!

Call or email to set up a tour!

• Recognized as a National Exemplary school 30888 C.R. 6, Elkhart (Corner of Ash & Cleveland Roads) 574.674.8800 • School@TrinityL.org • http://pk8.TrinityL.org Trinity Lutheran School offers excellence in education within a caring, faith-based community.

Please contact us for more information.

THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

33

family features

Hidden Michiana Treasures

Spring St yle Trends

From Fashion to Decor

By Kathy Friend & Andrew Skipper

We’ve said it before – trends transcend more than just the world of fashion. We see “trendy” things in home décor, entertaining and, of course, fashion. The FAMILY Magazine asked two local trend experts – Andrew Skipper, a lifestyle expert, and our fashion editor, Kathy Friend – how things we’re seeing grace the pages of magazines translate into our homes and closets.

FAMILY: We are seeing stripes everywhere. Is this a big trend this season, and what would you call it? How do you do it?

ANDREW SAYS: The nautical look, in my opinion, cannot be categorized as a trend, but rather a timeless look which returns year after year. There are a few different interpretations of nautical style including shabby beach chic and preppy yacht style. Achieve the casual look by incorporating white washed furniture, rope details and the familiar blue and white stripe into your rooms. Take nautical to a glamorous level by using framed sailing maps and natural history prints of fish. Regardless of how you interpret the maritime style, be careful not to let your space become overly themed.

KATHY SAYS: Nautical influence has been around for a long time and is here to stay! All of the stripes you are seeing in magazines come from the nautical influence. To bring a little of this nautical feel into your wardrobe, add a striped tee. A black and white one is timeless and easy to pair with other prints or pop with fun spring colors.

34 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

If stripes aren’t really your thing, then add some nautical touches with accessories or details. Chunky chain-link belts, rope details on shoes, even a striped bow on a handbag are all ways to bring that nautical look into your wardrobe.

FAMILY: Bright colors are everywhere this spring. What’s up with those neon hues?

ANDREW SAYS: Bold, bright colors have been popular the last few years, and I don’t see that changing any time soon. The key to achieving success is to work with a limited palette of strong colors. Perhaps you could choose a rich tangerine and pair it with a vibrant blue. If you choose a vibrant color such as lemon for your walls, balance it with white moldings and black furniture. If you’re just starting to experiment with bright colors, try them out on your accessories. Change out your cream lamp shades for richly hued ones. Add bold throw pillows and throws. Swap out your artwork with brightly colored canvases. If you choose colors that speak to you and make you feel good, you won’t go wrong!

KATHY SAYS: I love adding in some bright hues into my spring wardrobe. Nothing puts a little spring in your step quite like bright colors!

This season’s “it” colors are tangerine and bright yellow. These are very bold, almost neon tones, but can be very wearable for any age.

The secret to wearing these colors successfully is twofold. First, wear a bright color as the statement in your look. For example, wear a bright jean with a subdued tunic, shoe and accessories. The biggest mistake would be to wear these bright colors head to toe. Another take on this trend is to wear those bright colors to pop your look. If you love a monochromatic style, then pop your look with bright accessories.

FAMILY: Florals, stripes, plaid, polka dot and Ikat – Oh my! There are so many patterns out there. What’s “in”?

ANDREW SAYS: Graphic/bold patterns. I love using bold, graphic patterns! We are continuing to see a resurgence of classic patterns such as chevron, bold stripes, damask, polka dots and florals. Many of these, however, are being reinterpreted in fresh, bright colors and being used in an overscale manner.

KATHY SAYS: Everything from florals to plaid is in this season. The most on-trend way to wear this look is to mix patterns such as polka dots with a plaid, stripes or florals. Very chic! The secret is to be sure that the hues, colors and tones of those two prints are the same, or choose mixed patterns in neutrals.

A fun way to bring some pattern into your wardrobe is to look for something that has some of those fun trendy colors, and believe me, you are going to see a ton of options! One thing to keep in mind with prints is to be sure that the weight of the print is in line with your stature. You want people to see you, not your printed top!

When it comes to mixing patterns in the same room, there are a few rules of thumb. Maintain some solid areas to allow the eye to rest.

You also want to vary the scale of the patterns. Perhaps you’ll use a large-scale chintz wallpaper and pair it with a small ticking stripe on the side chairs. Introduce pattern to your decor with rugs, pillows, lamp shades and curtains. If you’re really daring, choose a sofa with a bold pattern on it – just be sure you love it!

ANDREW SKIPPER: A lifestyle expert, Andrew Skipper's diverse background in interior and exterior design, event planning, visual merchandising and retail entrepreneurship has led to him being a multi-faceted resource to the design community. Andrew is affiliated with WNDU News Center 16, giving tips on decorating and entertaining. His company, Andrew Skipper Everyday, offers interior design services to residential and commercial clients.

KATHY FRIEND: As a wardrobe coach, fashion expert and image consultant, Kathy Friend has been pouring her heart into her clients for over 15 years. She is the fashion editor of The Family Magazine, a regular on the WFRN Doug and Vincy Morning Show, and on the WSBT Morning Show.

She also is the resident fashion expert for local Goodwill stores. Kathy offers workshops and seminars to corporate groups and gatherings nationally.

WELCOME WELCOME OUR NEW OBSTETRICIAN

Michele Whitt, M.D. Michele Whitt, M.D. joins Drs. Nancy Keller-Madden, Mark Meekhof, Ed Durbin and Virna Evangelista in the Obstetrics/Gynecology Department at The South Bend Clinic.

Dr. Whitt specializes in women’s health care, including medical and surgical care of the female reproductive system and associated diseases and disorders.

Dr. Whitt earned her medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine. She completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Loma Linda University Medical Center in southern California.

Dr. Whitt holds an undergraduate degree from Purdue University, Lafayette, Ind. She is board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Whitt, contact The South Bend Clinic, 574-237-9261. You can also visit us online at www.SouthBendClinic.com.

0 1 1 9

NUMBER 119 NOW SERVING YOU!

©2011 The South Bend Clinic

THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

35

family features

Hidden Michiana Treasures

Searching

High &

Low

Our Area’s Hidden Outdoor Gems

Evie and Chuck Nelson watch birds from the treetop walkway.

By Evelyn Kirkwood

Photo Credit: WNIT Public Television

It’s easy to overlook what’s right in our own backyard, but if you take a moment to explore, you’ll find some amazing places to visit right here in our area. Whether underground or above it, Michiana has a few hidden treasures you don’t want to miss!

spring, look for the massive leaves of skunk cabbage. (Yes, they do smell like skunk if you crush the leaves.) In early May, blue flag, a native iris, is in bloom. And by June, huge ferns, such as cinnamon and royal, border the terminus platform that overlooks Spicer Lake itself.

Explore a Cave

“A keen eye and quiet footsteps can reward you with sightings of frogs, dragonflies, birds and signs of beaver,” says Maria Peacock, interpretive services manager for St Joseph County Parks.

Tucked underground, in Buchanan, Michigan, is a quiet cavern known as Bear Cave. Located in Bear Cave Campground, a series of winding steps from inside the camp store leads you to the world below.

Bear Cave is about the size of a large living room. A surfaced path makes it easy to explore. According to Monica Topash, resort manager, Michigan State University researchers have documented items including a fossilized human jaw bone and a bird talon imbedded in the rock walls. One sloping rock is known as the “cave barometer.” Tan in dry weather and orange in humid weather, it’s a reliable forecasting tool, even underground!

Snakes and frogs take respite in the cool cave in summer. (It’s always 58 degrees.) Bats occasionally zip through the passageways.

Bear Cave is steeped in cultural history, too. Topash says Chief Pokagon and his family used the cave as a dwelling. Years later, a snug recess was used as shelter on the Underground Railroad. And, according to stories, “loot” from an Ohio bank robbery in 1875 was stashed here and was the inspiration for the silent film, “The Great Train Robbery.”

Above ground, a walking path leads you to the waterfall that was instrumental in forming the cave.

Stroll a Boardwalk

Wetlands can be soggy places to walk, but not if you are elevated by a boardwalk. Spicer Lake Nature Preserve, located north of New Carlisle, Indiana, is over 300 acres, much of which is a floating swamp forest. Unlike marshes, which contain mostly grasses and cattails, swamps are dominated by trees and shrubs.

There are several miles of trails through the dry, upland woods, but the quarter-mile boardwalk through a portion of the swamp is unique. In 36 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

This entire wetland basin, with tiny Spicer Lake in the center, is the remnant of a massive block of ice left when the glacier retreated.

Because the habitat is relatively pristine, several state-threatened plants grow here.

Hike in the Treetops

Gazing over the treetops is an unusual vantage point. You can do just that on the Treetop Walkway at Sarett Nature Center in Benton Harbor, Michigan. The wood and steel walkway is 250 feet long and 55 feet off the ground, making it a great place to look for birds during migration, says Chuck Nelson, director at Sarett.

Nelson got the idea from similar elevated walkways in the tropics and in Florida. Many of those walkways span between two towers. The Treetop Walkway uses the natural ridge on the floodplain of the St. Joseph River as its starting point. After snow melt or significant rain events, the river peeks out from under the walkway then recedes as spring progresses.

Nelson says one advantage to being up so high is that sound travels well. “If you stop and be quiet for five minutes, the woods come alive,” he says. Bird song and the rustle of leaves as deer or squirrels move below are some of the things to listen for.

In late spring, the walkway is ideal for spotting the lovely, bright yellow flowers of tall tulip trees.

Family Activity: Visit these Gems!

Bear Cave Campground 4085 Bear Cave Rd, Buchanan, MI 49107 Phone: 269.695.3050

LIVE-ACTION GRAPHIC NOVEL BOOK ONE: TARGET EARTH FRI, MAR 9 AT 7 PM

Hours: Open May – end of September.

Admission: $3 adults; $1.50 children 5 and under free.

Web: Watch a video about the cave! wnit. org/outdoorelements/1000/1001/1001.html

THEATREWORKS BEST FOR AGES 7 AND UP.USA CHARLOTTE’S WEB FRI, APR 27 AT 7 PM LEIGHTON CONCERT HALL BEST FOR AGES 5 TO 10.

Spicer Lake Nature Preserve County Line Road, New Carlisle, IN 46637 Phone: 574.654.3155 Hours: Open daily, except holidays.

Admission: Free Web: sjcparks.org Sarett Nature Center 2300 Benton Center Rd. Benton Harbor, MI 49022 Phone: 269.927.4832 Hours: Trails open dawn to dusk daily.

Admission: $3; Children 12 and under are free Web: sarett.com. Watch a video about the walkway! wnit.org/ outdoorelements/900/912/912.html

T-E-R-R-I-F-I-C storybook magic

True to E.B. White’s classic about community, friendship and bravery, Theatreworks USA jumps from page to stage to spin a magical coming-ofage tale. It takes “some pig” and a little grey spider to prove that life and love goes on.

Evelyn Kirkwood is Director of St. Joseph All Tickets $10 on sale now at performingarts.nd.edu County Parks in Indiana and host of Outdoor Elements, which is broadcasted Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 5:30 pm on WNIT Public Television.

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THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

37

family features

Hidden Michiana Treasures

House Hunting: Redefined How to Learn about the Rich History of Your Home

By Stephanie J. Salisbury

With the dawning of the internet, research just became easier. Things we used to have to spend weeks figuring out are now right at our fingertips, ready to shower us with more information than we can possibly imagine. As a result, finding out about our own ancestries and histories has become a new hobby for many people. And even beyond that, many are taking an interest in learning more about the histories of their homes or the houses they are about to buy.

To help us along on our new mission to find the hidden treasures and histories of our homes, Todd Zeiger, director of the Northern Regional Office of Indiana Landmarks, has some valuable tips. Since, even in this day and age, we can’t possibly find everything we need online, there are some other resources available to us in our quest for information while we research. The mission statement of Indiana Landmarks is to revitalize communities, reconnect us to our heritage, and save meaningful places. Zeiger is an integral part of doing just that. His passion comes from an interesting history of his own: “I grew up traveling around the country and was always curious about older buildings and their styles. At the same time, I also became aware of all the vintage properties that were being torn down and wanted to find out what could be done to save them – it didn’t make sense to me to just throw them away. Living in my family’s farm (my kids are the fifth generation on the property), I value the connection to my ancestors and the special connection to them knowing all the fingerprints that they have left over time and how my family continues that tradition.”

Where to Look First

Knowing where to start is pretty easy. “The best first step is to determine what information may already have been compiled,” Zeiger says. “Don’t reinvent the wheel. Do you have an abstract?

That is the best source of information for a historic house.”

This “abstract” he mentions is a summary of all the legal transactions the house has been involved with over time – deeds, wills, mortgages, tax sales, probate proceedings, or any litigation which will also provide you with the names and dates of most people involved in the history of the house. All sorts of reference numbers will come to light that will help the rest of your research immensely.

Sometimes you might get lucky enough to find an abstract left in the house itself, perhaps a cupboard or drawer, or on a shelf.

The next step is something for which we can use the ol’ internet.

“Sanborne Maps, which are fire insurance maps that provide a wealth of information, are now available online,” states Zeiger, “if you have names of people that previously owned the house. Online 38 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

genealogical resources are pretty abundant now and could be a great source to find other threads and even living family members of those people.”

Take Your Time

Though it does not take much of a financial investment at all to research the history of your house, it does take time, Zeiger warns.

You also need to have some idea of how to ask the right questions.

“Sleuthing out the history of your house can be a great way to connect you with those that lived in the house before you. Sometimes you find incredible amounts of information. Sometimes you strike out.

Persistence and patience are key. You have to be inquisitive.”

Zeiger also warns us that the history of each house is different, and some are less accessible than others. “Not all properties have a wealth of information – but generally all properties can be researched at some level and interesting facts uncovered about those who lived there over time. The hardest properties are the ones in the rural areas. Properties located in cities tend to have more publicly available information.”

Attend the Seminars

The website for Indiana Landmarks will give you some pretty thorough start-up information, including how to go about finding an abstract and other pertinent items using census data, offices to stop by, and a plan of action. However, Todd Zeiger will be conducting a couple of Restore Michiana Seminars at the Downtown Mishawaka-PennHarris Library in the very near future. Saturday, April 28th from 9:3011:30 a.m., you can show up and learn how to identify shortcuts to pre-existing research and how to focus your search more closely.

In addition, on Thursday, May 3rd from 7:00-8:30 p.m. at the same location, you can learn differences in the historic styles of area homes and identify variations and histories that shaped them. These are free seminars, open to the public, but you are requested to sign up by contacting Elicia D. Feasal at 574.235.9798 or edadlow@ co.st-joseph.in.us beforehand.

Zeiger says that, if you are interested in learning more, bring a photo of your home and an abstract if you have access already to the April 28th seminar.

For more information on Indiana Landmarks, please visit their website at indianalandmarks.org or call 574.232.4534.

Stephanie J. Salisbury, University of Michigan graduate, has published two books and maintains a well-followed inspirational blog. She and her husband sing, act, direct and work together.

WELCOME WELCOME OUR NEW INTERNIST

Rita Schmid, M.D.

Rita Schmid, M.D. has joined the Internal Medicine Department at The South Bend Clinic. Dr. Schmid diagnoses and treats adult patients at The South Bend Clinic’s Granger location. She partners with her patients to prevent or manage illnesses, diseases, injuries and chronic conditions.

Dr. Schmid completed her internal medicine residency at the University of Cincinnati. She received her medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine.

Dr. Schmid received her undergraduate degree from Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill. Dr. Schmid is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Schmid, contact The South Bend Clinic, 574-204-7060. You can also visit us online at www.SouthBendClinic.com.

0 1 1 7

NUMBER 117 NOW SERVING YOU!

©2011 The South Bend Clinic

The Perfect

The Perfect

for Every Occasion

for Every Occasion Birthdays • Anniversaries • Holidays • Weddings Mother’s Day • Graduations • Special Occasions

The Heritage Square Gift Card

Redeemable at all Heritage Square Merchant locations.

Available at the Heritage Square Guest Services Office.

For more information, call 574.855.3774.

Heritage Square • Mishawaka, IN (Located on the Corner of State Road 23 & Main/Gumwood)

www.ShopHeritageSquare.com • 574.855.3774

HeritageSquare

ShopHeritageSq

THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

39

APRIL 2012

Calendar of Events

Sunday

songs, finger plays and fun for children up to two years. Call 574.282.4641 for more info.

Imagine That! Toy Store, Mishawaka

Toddlertime

Drop-in Craft Day Every Sunday enjoy “Drop-in” Craft Day from 1 to 5 PM. All ages are welcome and an adult must accompany children. Pay $5 for the craft of the day to create and then take home with you! Call 574.254.1600 for more information and for a schedule of upcoming classes also available at the store.

Monday

Storytime Sampler Bittersweet Branch Library, Mishawaka

Storytime Sampler is held every second and fourth Monday of the month from 10:30 AM to 11 AM. This fun library time provides a sampling of the materials used in the preschool and toddler programs. Registration is not required. Call 574.259.0392 for more information.

Tuesday

Storytime at Hammes Notre Dame Bookstore

Every Tuesday near the fireplace in the bookstore, join story time with books, interactive songs and an art project or other activity for young children. Story time is at 11 AM and 1 PM and lasts 45-60 minutes.

Check out the Hammes Notre Dame Bookstore Facebook page for an upcoming list of readings (click on the ‘Storytime’ tab).

Storytimes

St. Joseph County Public Library, Storytime Room

Every Wednesday at 10:10 AM and 11 AM, enjoy early literacy activities for children ages 2 to 3 ½, including stories, songs and games. Pre-register at www.libraryforlife. org or at 574.282.4607.

Storytime at the Library 10:15 AM– Centre Township Branch, South Bend; Lakeville Branch, Lakeville 10:30 AM – South Bend Branches: River Park, Tutt, LaSalle, German Township

Every Wednesday enjoy stories, music, and movement that build early literacy skills and help your young child prepare for future learning success while developing a love of books. Open to children ages 5 and younger; families welcome. Visit www. libraryforlife.org for more info.

Drop-in Craft Day Imagine That! Toy Store, Mishawaka

Every Wednesday enjoy “Drop-in” Craft Day from 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM. All ages are welcome and an adult must accompany children. Pay $5 for the craft of the day to create and then take home with you! Call 574.254.1600 for more information and for a schedule of upcoming classes also available at the store.

Mom and Baby Exercise Class

Drop-in Craft Day Imagine That! Toy Store, Mishawaka

Every Thursday enjoy “Drop-in” Craft Day from 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM. All ages are welcome and an adult must accompany children. Pay $5 for the craft of the day to create and then take home with you! Call 574.254.1600 for more information and for a schedule of upcoming classes also available at the store.

Friday

Downtown South Bend’s First Fridays

The first Friday of each month explore downtown South Bend from 5 PM-9 PM. Visit www.dtsbfirstfridays.com for a listing of events taking place, including activities and experiences for kids, adults and families.

Saturday

Family Programs at Curious Kids’ Museum

Curious Kids’ Museum and Discovery Zone, St. Joseph, MI

Every Saturday from 12 PM – 4 PM, the museum hosts family-friendly programs that are fun for all ages. Check out the new Discover Zone (for children ages 3 and up); also hosting Saturday family programming at the same time. Call 269.983.2543 for more information. Admission fee or membership to museum is required.

Ongoing April Events Sharing Box

Thomson’s Physical Therapy, Niles, Michigan

Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Library, Harris Branch

Every Tuesday at 10 AM, enjoy stories, music and movement that build early literacy skills and help your young child prepare for future learning success while developing a love of books. Open to children ages 5 and younger; families welcome. Call 574.282.4641 for more info.

Come get that pre-pregnancy body back while you stimulate your child’s development and learning. Classes are offered every Wednesday morning at 9:30 AM, and free childcare is provided for toddlers during the class (for mothers with more than one). Call for pricing info. For more info call 269.687.9110.

In April, the sharing box features the book Seven Little Bunnies by Julie Stiegemeyer.

Enjoy reading about seven bunnies who find many things to do when it is time for them to go to bed. Then make your own bunny picture to take home. Ask for this Sharing Box anytime during the month of April at the Children’s Services desk, Harris Branch Library.

Lapsit for Prewalkers

Thursday

Baby Boot Camp

Francis Branch Library, South Bend

St. Joseph County Public Library, Storytime Room

Every Tuesday at 10:10 AM, enjoy books, songs, finger plays and fun for children up to two years who haven’t yet mastered walking on their own. Pre-register online at www.libraryforlife.org or at 574.282.4607.

Wednesday Lapsit

Francis Branch Library, South Bend

Every Wednesday at 10 AM enjoy books, 40 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

Storytime at Hammes Bookstore & Café on Eddy Street

Every Thursday at 11:30 AM, join story time with books, interactive songs and an art project or other activity for young children.

Story time is at 11 AM and 1 PM and lasts 45-60 minutes. Check out the Hammes Notre Dame Bookstore Facebook page for an upcoming list of readings (click on the ‘Storytime’ tab).

Central Park, Mishawaka on Mondays Granger Community Church, Wednesdays and Fridays

Baby Boot Camp stroller-based fitness classes are designed specifically to help moms get fit. Classes combine strengthtraining exercises with cardiovascular drills.

Pilates, yoga and abdominal exercises help improve core strength. The stroller, resistance tubes (and even your child!) are used as an integral part of the workout.

Starts at 9:30 AM. Free! For more info visit babybootcamp.com.

*Please be sure to call ahead to confirm times and information.

Have an event you’d like to submit? Visit www.michianafamilymagazine.com!

Who’s Hiding in the Bittersweet Branch Library?

Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Library, Bittersweet Branch

Beginning Monday, April 2, Eric Carle’s very hungry caterpillar is hiding in a different location each week in Children’s Services at the Bittersweet Branch Library. Find him and receive an entry slip for a drawing to be held Monday, April 30. Two lucky winners will choose books from a selection of new paperbacks. Children are allowed to enter the drawing one time per week.

Cage Fitness STAR Martial Arts, Elkhart

Cage Fitness is tested and designed by 9-time Welterweight Champion, Matt Hughes. However, unlike MMA, there is no contact and no partners! Cage Fitness is designed to work out your entire body in only 25 minutes! Come try a free class before you decide you love it! For more information call 574.522.5425.

Monday, April 2 Treetop Tales

Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Library, Harris Branch

Children of all ages are invited to listen to stories, sing songs, and participate in finger plays at Treetop Tales on Mondays, April 2 and 16 from 1:30 to 2 PM. Registration is not required and all ages are welcome. An adult caregiver must attend with children aged 7 years and younger. For more information, inquire at the Children’s Services desk of the Harris Branch Library or call 574.271.3179.

Tuesday, April 3

Spring Break History Days Elkhart County Historical Museum, Elkhart

Drop in and visit the Elkhart County Historical Museum during your spring break! The museum will be offering a different historical craft or activity each day.

From 10 AM to 4 PM. $1 for a three-day pass. For more info, call 574.848.4322 or visit elkhartcountyparks.org.

Wednesday, April 4 Lego My Library

Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Library, Bittersweet Branch

Children in grades 1-6 are invited to build a tall Lego tower at 2 PM. Once completed, the tower will be on display for everyone to see. Building materials will be provided. Registration is required. For more information, inquire at the Children’s

Services desk of the Bittersweet Branch Library, or call 574.259.0392.

Thursday, April 5

New Movie for Spring Break Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Library, Downtown Branch

Visit the Spencer Gallery in the downtown Mishawaka Library at 11 AM to 12:30 PM to find out the latest adventures in mischief for Alvin and his friends. The movie is free, but tickets are required. They will be available at the Reference Services desk of the downtown Mishawaka Library. For more information inquire at the Reference Services desk or phone 574.259.5277, ext. 218.

Friday, April 6

Cooking Class with Chef Laurent: Viva Italia Chef Laurent, Inc., Granger

Chef Laurent, a native of Brittany, France with a culinary background in European cuisine, offers various classes to enhance your cooking skills. Learn to make Spaghetti all Tonno, Beef and Pasta Bake and Vermicelli with Clams from 6 to 7:30 PM. $55. For more info visit ChefLaurentInc.com.

Saturday, April 7

The Making of Star Wars Models Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Library, Harris Branch

Enjoy Andy Schmidt’s presentation of his Star Wars model collection and learn how they are made at 3:30 PM. The collection was displayed throughout the month of March at the Harris Branch Library. Schmidt, a local model maker, librarian and pianist, will give a PowerPoint presentation explaining various spaceship modeling techniques and present a list of good websites to visit for additional information. Following the presentation, he will have a show and tell featuring some of the actual models used in the March display. For more information, contact Reference Services at the Harris Branch Library, 574.271.3179.

Tuesday, April 10

Spring Chamber Orchestra Concert Bethel College, Everest-Rohrer Auditorium, Mishawaka

Enjoy an evening of musical entertainment that the whole family will love. Admission is free and open to the public. Starts at 7:30 PM. For more information, contact the Bethel College department of music at 574.257.3393.

Where Does Your Money Go? Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Library, Downtown

Have you ever asked yourself the question, “Where does my money go?” Find out when Edie Sutton from the Purdue Extension Office of St. Joseph County on Tuesday, April 10 at 6:30 PM in the Spencer Gallery.

Sutton will discuss budgeting and money management with a focus on how to use tax refunds. Program registration is requested

by Thursday, April 5. A minimum of 8 people is required for the program to occur.

Call 574.259.5277, ext. 218 for more info.

Thursday, April 12

Good Shepherd Montessori Parent Coffee Good Shepherd Montessori, South Bend

Please join us for coffee and conversation with current parents of Good Shepherd Montessori students. Topics of conversation include education, parenting, peaceful living, positive discipline, the arts, and environmental justice.

From 8 to 9 AM. Free event. For more info, call 574.288.0098 and visit gsms.org.

Spring Band Concert Bethel College, Everest-Rohrer Auditorium, Mishawaka

Come for an evening of musical entertainment that the whole family will enjoy. Admission is free and open to the public. Starts at 7:30 PM. For more information, contact the Bethel College department of music at 574.257.3393.

Friday, April 13

Spring Jazz & Percussion Night Bethel College, Everest-Rohrer Auditorium, Mishawaka

Come for an evening of musical entertainment for the whole family.

Admission is free and open to the public.

Show starts at 7:30 PM. For more information, contact the Bethel College department of music at 574.257.3393.

Saturday, April 14 Dart for the Arts 5K Run Elkhart Plaza, Elkhart

Flat, fast 5K run from the Lerner Theater in Downtown Elkhart, a lap around Wellfield Gardens, and then back to downtown! From 8 to 10 AM. Proceeds to benefit Premier Arts, the theater company organizing family performances at the Lerner Theater! Cost is $20-$30, depending on when you sign up.

For more info, call 574.293.1683 and visit stonesouppromotions.com.

THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

41

Reading Your Bible Book Launch Celebration Family Christian Stores, Ireland Road, South Bend

Reading Your Bible Book Launch Celebration.

You are cordially invited to attend: Dara Rose, Author of “Reading Your Bible: The ultimate study guide in understanding the narratives, main events and genealogies in the bible” for her debut Book launch celebration! Free event. From 4 to 7 PM. There will be door prizes and a book signing. Copies will be available at a discounted price. For more info, email Dara at readingyourbible@live. com or visit ReadingYourBible.com.

TRIpocalypse Pioneer High School, Ann Arbor, MI

First annual TRIpocalypse hosted by U of M Triathlon! There will be divisional awards for standard age groups, as well as for the relay teams. There will be parking at Pioneer High School, but be aware that the Spring Game and Big Heart Big House are the same weekend, so show up early if you want a spot! $50. Starts at 8 AM. Sponsored by the University of Michigan Triathlon Club.

For teens and adults. For more info, visit mtriathlon.org or call 517.648.2720.

YMCA Healthy Kids Day YMCA of Elkhart County, Elkhart

YMCA of Elkhart County will be hosting Healthy Kids Day, from 10 AM to 1 PM. YMCA Healthy Kids Day is a free, funfilled day of activities designed to promote healthy kids and families in spirit, mind and body. Activities include Peter Nester, the Jump Rope master shows, Healthworks Hummer, Family Fun Run, Inflatables, Police K-9 demonstrations, scuba lessons, vision screenings, and lots of kid friendly vendors and demos. For more information, call 574.

389.7878 or elkhartymca.org.

John Prine “Legendary Songwriter & American Treasure” Morris Performing Arts Center, South Bend

With his trademark guitar finger-picking and unmistakable songwriting voice, Grammy winner John Prine continues to mesmerize diverse audiences with his humble poetry, describing often-overlooked crannies of everyday life. From 8 to 10:30 PM. Tickets from $49.50 to $59.50. For more info call, 574.235.9198 or visit morriscenter.org.

Premier Arts Academy Dance Boot Camp The Lerner Theater, Elkhart

Don’t miss the Premier Arts Dance Boot Camp for ages 7-16. The camp is instructed

by Ashley Frost Nugent. From 10 to 11:30 AM. Cost is $30. For more info, call 574.293.4469 or visit premierarts.org.

42 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

Tuesday, April 17

Breastfeeding Class for Moms and Dads at Lakeland HealthCare

Sesame Street Live “Elmo’s Super Heroes” Morris Performing Arts Center, South Bend

Breastfeeding provides the best nutrition for your baby and is a special time for mothers and babies to bond. The class will cover: The benefits of breastfeeding, How to know when your baby is hungry, Proper latch-on methods and more! Cost is $30. From 6 to 8:30 PM. For more information, visit lakelandhealth. org/breastfeeding or call 269.556.2808.

Calling all super heroes! Super Grover has lost his super-ness! Never fear, the fabulous five Super Heroes are here -- featuring Elmo as Captain Fuzzy! Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Zoe and all their furry friends are on a quest to put the “super” back in Super Grover.

From 7 PM to 9 PM. There is also an April 25 showing. Tickets from $14 to $52.75.

For more info, call 574.235.9190 or visit morriscenter.org.

Wednesday, April 18

Thursday, April 26

Lakeland Community Hospital, Niles

Cooking Class with Chef Laurent: Desserts Chef Laurent, Inc., Granger

Chef Laurent, a native of Brittany, France with a culinary background in European cuisine, offers various classes to enhance your cooking skills. Learn to make desserts: Baba au Rhum, Bread and Butter Pudding and Chocolate and Coffee Mousse from 6 to 7:30 PM. $50. For more info visit ChefLaurentInc.com.

Red Green “Wit & Wisdom” Tour at the Morris Morris Performing Arts Center, South Bend

Friday, April 20

A string of sold out shows in the U.S. and Canada has led to the return of everyone’s favorite wacky handyman - Red Green! The best-selling author, humorist and handyman who believes “anything is possible if you use enough duct tape,” has been entertaining audiences for the past 20 years with his popular PBS Television series, “The Red Green Show.” $48.50. From 7 to 9:30 PM. For more info, visit morriscenter.org or call 574.235.9198.

Bethel College, Everest-Rohrer Auditorium, Mishawaka

Kids Garden Club

Choral Showcase

Come for an evening of musical entertainment that the whole family will enjoy. Admission is free and open to the public. Starts at 7:30 PM. For more information, contact the Bethel College department of music at 574.257.3393.

Tuesday, April 24 Craft of the Month Group

Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Library, Bittersweet

Join us to celebrate spring anytime between 4 to 6 PM to make colorful wallpaper bird and flower ornaments while supplies last.

This program is open to teens and adults.

Children aged 7 and up may attend with an adult helper. Registration is not required.

For more information, call the Bittersweet Branch Library at 574.259.0392.

Fraud Protection and How the BBB Can Help Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Library, Harris Branch

Fraud is a growing crime. While many individuals are hurt by this crime, businesses also have to be vigilant. On Tuesday, at both 1:30 and 7 PM at the Harris Branch Library, Dreama Jensen, area director of the Better Business Bureau (BBB), will discuss this growing problem. Registration is requested

by Friday, April 20. For more information, call 574.271.3179.

Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Library, Harris Branch

What’s growing at the library? Join a library staff member and area Master Gardeners at 3:30 PM to start seed plantings that will beautify the library flowerbeds. Have fun planting flowers from seeds and watch them grow throughout the spring and summer.

The Kids Garden Club is open to children in grades 1-6. Space is limited. Registration is required and begins Friday, April 20.

For more information, contact Children’s Services at the Harris Branch Library or call 574.271.3179.

Spring Home School Program: Fish St. Patrick’s County Park: Brown Barn, South Bend

Welcome, home school families! Introduce yourself to a few of the fish species that live around here, find out what makes them unique and take home your own fish print.

Registration is required by April 24. $3 per child. From 10 to 11:30 AM. For more info, call 574.654.3155.

Saturday, April 28

Behind the Scenes with the ROZ Puppets Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Library, Downtown

Ever wondered what happens behind the stage during a puppet show? Celebrate the National Day of Puppetry at 2:30 PM with the ROZ Puppets as they pull back the curtains and show what it takes to put on a puppet

performance. Tickets are required and will be available at the Children’s Services desk at the downtown Mishawaka Library. Adult caregivers must attend with children aged 7 and under. For ticket information, inquire at the Children’s Services desk or call the downtown Mishawaka Library at 574.259.5277, ext. 242.

Upcoming May Events Thursday, May 3 Spring Stroller Walk

Bendix Woods County Park, New Carlisle

Spring is a wonderful time to share the wonder of nature with a child! Bring your baby or toddler (up to 3 years old) in a stroller or baby carrier, to experience one of the most beautiful spring wildflower spots in the county. The program will include songs, stories, snacks and a guided walk.

Registration is required by May 1. From 10 to 11:30 AM. $3 per child. For more info, call 574.654.3155.

Friday, May 4

Ancestral Skills through the Ages Woodlawn Nature Center, Elkhart

Historians will demonstrate skills such as weaving, spinning, porcupine quill work, book making, rope making, cooking, and flint knapping. Historians will be set up in a primitive encampment around Woodlawn Nature Center demonstrating these skills. This is geared to hands on activities for children of all ages. Friday is open to all students and Saturday is family oriented day. From May 4 to May 6, From 9 AM to 5 PM. $2 per person. For more info, call 574,206.3277.

Friday, May 11

An Intimate Evening with Trace Adkins Songs and Stories Morris Performing Arts Center, South Bend

Country music superstar Trace Adkins will be playing smaller, more intimate venues with great acoustics such as the Morris on his Spring 2012 tour. Tickets start at $39.75. Orchestra pit tickets are $103.00 and include a meet and greet with Trace Adkins. Grab your tickets fast as they sell out quickly.

From 8 to 10:30 PM. For more info, visit morriscenter.org or call 574.235.9198.

THANK YOU

to our monthly distribution partners Allied Pediatrics Chic-Fil-A Clay Preschool & Church Debbie Werbrouck School of Dance & Music Early Childhood Development Center at Notre Dame Elkhart General Hospital Eye Site Optical Family Sports Time Pub Friends Preschool & Daycare Granger Community Church Growing Kids Learning Center Gymnastics Michiana Kumon Learning Center Menno Travel Midwest Orthotics Mutual Bank Notre Dame Federal Credit Union Once Upon a Child Soccer Zone South Bend Clinic South Bend Medical Foundation St. Thomas the Apostle School Strikes & Spares Traditions Photography Trinity Lutheran School Victorian Pantry YMCA of Elkhart If you would like to receive The FAMILY Magazine at your familyfocused business or organization each month, please email your request to: media@michianafamilymagazine.com.

THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

43

FA M I LY T I M E I S A L W AY S B E T T E R N E A R T H E L A K E

Special Section Five Breakfasts in Five Minutes A Reason to Smile!

Simple Ways to Keep Your Pet’s Dental Health in Check

Melting Down, Mom?

Tips for saving the day when you’re freaking out

Innovative Medicine Here at Home Southwestern Medical Clinic Medical Trials Offer Unique Opportunities for Patients

Lory’s Place

Grieving with Healthy Bodies and Healthy Minds

MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

lakeside living

Five

Breakfasts in Five

Minutes!

“No time” is no longer an excuse for skipping breakfast. Not with this repertoire of easy ideas from Special Fork (specialfork.com), a free cell phone recipe cookbook where recipes are geared to people with more taste than time.

All workweek long, Special Fork bloggers address the cooking needs of busy home cooks.

• On Mondays, Co-founder Sandy Hu writes for the entire Special Fork community.

• On Tuesdays, Katie Barreira, Senior Test Kitchen Associate at Every Day with Rachael Ray magazine, educates cooking newbies.

• On Wednesdays, Lori Powell, Food Director of Prevention magazine, supports singles and couples.

• On Thursdays, Chef Andrew Hunter of Culinary Craft and his wife, Marilyn, help busy families.

• On Fridays, Special Fork features how-to video blogs.

The five easy recipe ideas below cook up in just minutes and will get any morning off to a great start.

Scrambled Egg Breakfast Burrito (pictured above) Makes 1 serving This recipe concept, developed by the American Egg Board, is genius in its simplicity.

1 flour tortilla (6-inch size) 1 egg 1 tablespoon shredded cheddar cheese 1 tablespoon salsa Line 2-cup microwave-safe cereal bowl with microwave-safe paper towel. Press tortilla into the bowl. Crack egg into the center of the tortilla and beat egg gently with a fork to blend. Microwave on high 30 seconds; stir and microwave 15 to 30 seconds more until egg is almost set.

Remove tortilla to a flat surface. Top egg with cheese and salsa; fold bottom of the tortilla over the egg and fold in each side.

46 LAKESIDE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

Microwave-Oven-Baked Apples Makes 1 serving Take a few minutes to core and stuff an apple; then bake for just 5 minutes.

1 small Braeburn or Granny Smith apple, peeled 1 tablespoon butter 1 tablespoon rolled oats 1tablespoon light brown sugar 1 teaspoon flour Pinch salt 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/3 cup apple juice 1/2 teaspoon sugar Freshly grated nutmeg Yogurt Use a melon baller to core the stem end of the apple, then hollow a 1-inch cavity in the center.

In small bowl, mix together butter, oats, brown sugar, flour, salt and cinnamon; fill the apple.

Set apple in a small microwave-safe dish, add juice; sprinkle apple with sugar and nutmeg. Microwave on high until apple softens and liquid is bubbling, about 5 minutes. Serve with yogurt. Recipe by Katie Barreira, cooking newbie blogger.

French Toast Dip French bread slices into mixture of 2 beaten eggs, 1/2 cup milk, 1 teaspoon sugar, a pinch of salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg. Fry in butter or oil until golden.

Bagel Breakfast Toast bagel, spread with peanut butter mixed with raisins, and top with sliced banana or apple.

Parfait to Go In paper cup, layer granola, yogurt and quartered dried plums.

lakeside

book review

8,000

SUBSCRIBERS AND COUNTING...

Thousands of local parents are connected to The Lakeside FAMILY Magazine through Facebook, Twitter & E-Blasts.

WHY? To connect with other parents, get instant updates on fun things to do and parenting news, enter Facebookonly prize giveaways and more.

GET IN THE LOOP. SO YOU CAN GET THE SCOOP. Reviewed by Paula Stakley Maud Preston Palenske Memorial/St. Joseph Public Library “The Fault in our Stars” is another work of award-winning young adult author John Green. The story begins with Hazel attending a cancer support group for terminally ill children. She has thyroid cancer and must carry an oxygen tank with her wherever she goes. At the support group, she meets Augustus. Augustus is recovering from a malignant leg tumor.

Facebook.com/Lakeside-Family-Magazine @LakesideFAMILY1

So why would anyone, especially teens, want to read about kids with cancer? The answer is that they don’t. Even Hazel can be quoted in the novel saying, “cancer books suck.” But “The Fault in Our Stars” isn’t about cancer, and it’s not about dying.

Cancer is a vital subject in the book, but it’s more about moving along with the development of Hazel and Augustus.

Meeting Augustus means that for the first time since her near-death, Hazel is actually living a life like a teenager. She is going out with friends and taking the car out, instead of sitting home with her parents watching yet another “America’s Next Top Model” marathon on the television. Hazel and Augustus form a special bond, and while this book may be about two kids with cancer, it’s really more about living life to its fullest.

Be prepared for a tearjerker – you do grow to love Hazel and Augustus so much by the end of the story that it is hard to let them go.

LAKESIDE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APIRL 2012

47

lakeside pets

A Reason to Smile!

Simple Ways to Keep Your Pet’s Dental Health in Check

“Yes, I brush my dog’s teeth.”

Many clients look at me skeptically when I say this in the exam room. My dog actually loves the brushing process. Okay, admittedly, it’s not the brushing, but rather the poultry flavored toothpaste. My cats, on the other hand, would prefer that I stay far away when wielding a toothbrush. Even though I have been unsuccessful with targeting my cat’s preventative oral health care, I have some clients able to brush their cat’s teeth.

Dental disease is extremely common in pets. It can also greatly affect the length and quality of your pet’s life. Bacteria can destroy tooth attachment and travel to the liver, kidneys and heart. Every day, I see patients with dental tartar, exposed tooth roots, loose teeth, bad breath, cracked teeth or severe gum inflammation. Make sure that your veterinarian is examining your pet’s mouth and teeth, as well as making recommendations for dental health care.

Good dental health care will prevent potentially painful and life shortening conditions. Here are some ways to help keep your pet’s teeth in good shape.

48 LAKESIDE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

By Dr. Ed Blesy

Chewing

If dogs like to chew, this may be the easiest way to maintain oral health. The abrasive action of chewing helps to remove plaque and tartar. However, be careful when choosing items for your pet to chew. Teeth can break or crack when chewing hard items like hooves or bones. There is also always a chance for a large piece of a chew to be swallowed, forming an esophageal or intestinal obstruction. Certain foods have also been clinically proven to help prevent dental disease. When choosing treats or diets, consult your veterinarian and visit the Veterinary Oral Health Council website vohc.org. The VOHC reviews studies performed on treats and diets.

Brushing

Give tooth brushing a try. First, choose a pet toothpaste. Don’t use human paste since it will cause stomach upset. Second, start with a soft toothbrush. I use a human toothbrush with my own dog. Third, don’t worry about the difficult-to-reach inside surfaces of your pet’s teeth. The problems I tend to see mostly originate on the outer surfaces. Fourth, make sure you get to the molars far back in the mouth. Finally, do not attempt brushing if advanced dental disease is already present. Consult your veterinarian if this is in question.

Other Ideas

There may be some other options for preventative oral health care if your pet refuses tooth brushing. These products are not as good as tooth brushing, but they can help prevent disease. Disinfecting gauze or wipes, oral rinses and water additives may be used. Please ask your veterinarian about these products to see if your pet could benefit.

Professional dental cleanings are needed by some pets. The most severe cases are easy to identify in my office. I can smell the bacteria when I step into the exam room. Discuss with your veterinarian about a potential dental cleaning. General anesthesia is needed to do this properly for three reasons: First, just hand scaling when awake will miss problems and tartar below the gum line. Second, analgesics are used to prevent pain. And finally, a tube used during anesthesia prevents bacteria from entering the lungs.

Dental care is an important component of your pet’s overall health. Address it and your pet will live a happier and longer life.

Dr. Ed Blesy graduated from veterinary school in 1997, and later moved with his family to practice in beautiful southwest Michigan. In January of 2006, Dr. Ed opened St. Joseph Animal Wellness Clinic, PC in St. Joseph, Michigan.

Klippers FAMILY SALON Redken • Matrix • Nioxin • Rusk • OPI • CND Shellac A Family & Kid Friendly Salon Open Monday-Saturday 269-465-3444 4520 Lake St. • Bridgman, MI

Paraffin hand treatment $6.00 and eyebrow waxing $6.00. Good thru April.

Math Tutoring Experts.

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LAKESIDE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APIRL 2012

49

lakeside parenting

Melting Down, Mom? Tips for saving the day when you’re freaking out

By Meagan Francis

Nurturing a flexible state of mind isn’t always so easy to do when you’re surrounded by small, irrational people. But we moms don’t always set ourselves up for success either: Have you ever been mentally so set in your ideas or expectations of how something was going to turn out that you found yourself completely losing it when things didn’t go as planned?

Oh boy, have I ever. I remember a day like that last summer that went majorly awry. Just to give you some idea of the setting, it involved three boys getting “lost” in a public restroom at the county fair. Oh, and a police officer. But don’t worry, no charges were filed and the story ends happily, with the lot of us wandering through the RV displays.

50 LAKESIDE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

Anyway, that experience inspired me to think about all the chances we get on a typical day or situation to turn things around for the better. There are things we can do to head off mom meltdowns – and when we miss that opportunity and find ourselves in the midst of a freak out, it’s not too late to turn it around. Even after you blow up, you can still choose to recover by taking a deep breath, maybe offering a well-placed apology, and making a decision to face the rest of the day with flexibility and good humor. Here are some of my best tips for heading off, stopping or recovering from a mom meltdown:

To PREVENT Mom Meltdowns

Prepare. Things aren’t always going to go according to plan. In fact, they’re almost never going to go according to plan. We do ourselves a huge favor when we go into every situation with a plan of how we’ll deal, mentally, if things fall apart. But also stay optimistic: if you’re super stressed because you just know everybody’s going to fall apart at the restaurant during dinner with your in-laws, that’s going to shine through in your interactions with your kids. They’ll pick up on your stress and be more stressed themselves. And you won’t have much fun, either.

Adjust expectations. Before you embark on an outing or start your day, take another look at that to-do list or consider how you hope that trip to the park will go. Did you choose a time when everybody’s well-rested and fed for that trip to the grocery store, or will you try to squeeze it into a jam-packed afternoon rush-around? Are you feeling like Supermom on a mission because you somehow managed to clean out three closets during nap time yesterday, forgetting that each day is different: today that nap might be cut short, or your mojo might just be low? In my book, I advise planning by weeks, not days, so that if you all wake up on the wrong side of the bed on Tuesday, you won’t feel obligated to check everything off a to-do list anyway. Goals are great; just make sure your expectations – of yourself, your kids, your spouse – are reasonable and manageable.

Then if things go even better than planned, it’ll be a happy surprise.

Speak softly. Have you ever noticed that once you start yelling, your words, tone and volume fuel your anger and you almost can’t stop? Try remaining silent for a minute or two while you think about what you really want to say, or if you must talk, force yourself to speak in a low, calm voice. You can still express disappointment or give a warning very effectively in a soft voice. In fact, I’ve noticed that sometimes the softer I speak the more my kids pay attention.

Plus, you can avoid that embarrassing “There’s a mom losing it in aisle 4!” public scene.

Okay, even knowing all this, chances are good you’re still going to flip out from time to time (I sure do.) So read on:

To RECOVER From Mom Meltdowns

Play armchair psychologist. After the dust has settled and your face is a normal color again, ask yourself: why am I angry? Who am I angry with? Why? Am I being fair? Does any of this really matter that much?

Apologize and move on. Making a decision to no longer be angry can feel impossible, but it’s amazing how freeing it really can be.

You know the Bible verse about heaping hot coals of kindness on

your enemy’s head? When you decide to “act as if” you’re no longer angry, it’s amazing how quickly your feelings often follow suit.

Don’t get me wrong. Apologizing to our kids, especially when they were acting like hyenas during their older sibling’s school play, is not easy. But what about your reaction? Was it fair, reasonable or grown-up? Most of the time, no matter how badly they behaved, I have something to apologize for, too. And far from then making me feel less in control as a parent, I find that the simple act of apologizing is one of my secret tools to happiness. Saying “I’m sorry” when I overreact teaches my kids that apologizing when you’re wrong is the right thing to do, and it makes everyone feel a whole lot better.

To STOP Mom Meltdowns in Their Tracks

Breathe. This is hands-down my most effective tool for keeping a freak-out at bay. You really can’t yell at your kids when you’re inhaling. Breathe in to the count of ten.

Meagan Francis is a mother of five and lives in St. Joseph, Michigan.

She is also author of “The Happiest Mom: 10 Secrets To Enjoying Motherhood.”

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lakeside health

Innovative Medicine Here at Home Southwestern Medical Clinic Medical Trials Offer Unique Opportunities for Patients

By Amy Cahill A medical trial at Southwestern Medical Clinic gave a 17-yearold St. Joseph, Michigan, girl the opportunity to reclaim her life.

Ashley Enders began participating in a study for the fibromyalgia drug Savella in December 2011. For the first time in several years, Ashley is now able to hang out with her friends and have a normal social life.

“I give my praises to this drug,” she says. “I’m able to go to the mall with my friends, go shopping, or go to the movies without saying in the back of my mind, ‘You better be home soon to take your medication.’”

Ashley first began experiencing the symptoms of fibromyalgia, a syndrome characterized by chronic pain, in 2008. Ashley’s symptoms manifest themselves as severe chest pains. When the pain is at its worst, she gasps when she breathes.

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Her mother, Sandra Osburn, says she took Ashley to several doctors who ran numerous tests on her lungs and her heart trying to determine what might be causing her pain.

Unable to find anything wrong, doctors prescribed anti-depressants and strong narcotics to treat Ashley’s discomfort. The narcotics would only relieve the pain for a few hours, and Ashley spent most of her time in bed with a heating pad.

“I did not have a social life whatsoever,” she says. “My friends didn’t understand.”

Sandra began doing her own research on the Internet and began to suspect her daughter might have fibromyalgia.

“We just couldn’t do it anymore; we were at our wits end,” she says. “We were contemplating going to Mayo or some big research hospital.”

During her research, Sandra found out about a clinical trial for Savella. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the drug to treat adults with fibromyalgia in 2009. Now, it is being tested for use in teens.

Sandra typed in her address to see if there was a clinical trial close to St. Joseph. She figured a doctor’s office in Grand Rapids or Chicago might have a study going. To her surprise, Southwestern Medical Clinic in Stevensville came up.

“I jumped out of my chair here at work,” she says.

Southwestern has been running clinical trials for new drugs for roughly 12 years. Dr. Richard Hines, medical director for Clinical Research, says the clinic has participated in studies for nearly 120 drugs.

Drug companies compensate the clinic and patients for participating in the studies. For Southwestern Medical Clinic, the revenue allows the facility to keep its finances in the black while following its Christian principals and treating patients who do not have the ability to pay for health care.

“Being part of these trials is one of the ways we can do that,” Dr. Hines says.

Over the years, the Clinical Research department has tested vaccinations, new drugs and medical devices, like asthma inhalers.

In addition to the fibromyalgia study Ashley is participating in, the clinic has tested drugs to treat gout, diabetes, hypertension and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Recently, Southwestern played a vital role in testing an oral vaccine for rotavirus in infants. Nearly 300 local babies participated in the study. The vaccination was approved for use and is now routinely given to all infants.

For the doctors at Southwestern Medical Clinic, the studies offer an on-going learning opportunity and a way to stay current on new medications.

Dr. Hines says the risks are generally much lower than most people think. By the time the drugs are being tested in widespread clinical trials like the ones Southwestern participates in, they have already been tested extensively. And, the testing process is highly regulated.

“This whole process is a very well-regulated, very well-overseen process,” he says. “By the time a doctor presents a study to a patient, we have lots of data about that drug.”

Dr. Hines says it is the job of the doctors running the study to help potential participants weigh the risks and benefits. Then the doctor needs to let each patient decide for himself or herself whether to participate.

“It’s a dynamic tension, and it’s exciting to be a part of that,” he says. “We’re trying to enroll somebody in a trial because we see that it outweighs the relative risks.”

In the rotavirus study, for example, nearly every child gets rotavirus before age 3, Dr. Hines says. About one out of every 2,000 children who get rotavirus will be hospitalized. Parents had to weigh the benefit of preventing their child from getting rotavirus with a small risk that the child might develop a blocked bowel after taking the vaccine.

Dr. Hines says one out of every five parents with babies eligible for the study opted to get the vaccine.

Ashley and Sandra say they did consider the potential risks of enrolling in the Savella trial, but for Ashley the potential benefits outweighed the risk.

“The ‘we can’t do this anymore. We have to try something,’ overwhelmed that apprehension,” Sandra says.

Once patients are enrolled in a study, they generally get more time with a doctor than normal. Often, there are follow-up visits to determine how the patient is reacting to a drug.

In Ashley’s case, she visits the Clinical Research Department at least once per month. She finds the visits somewhat inconvenient, but says the opportunity to take Savella makes it worth the hassle.

“This is the first drug that’s worked long-term for me,” she says.

Dr. Hines says the Clinical Research department is always looking for new study participants. This summer, it will be testing a new drug for treating swimmer’s ear. Studies are also in the works for drugs to treat migraines in children, asthma and meningitis.

“We’re always starting something new every few months or two,” Dr. Hines says.

To find out more about upcoming studies, visit the department’s website at swmc.org/medical-services/research, or call 269.429.6604 ext. 1823.

“It’s an interesting thing for a number of us to be involved in bringing these things to the marketplace,” Dr. Hines says.

For patients, the studies can offer opportunities to be on the cutting edge of treatments. However, they have to weigh the expected benefits with the possible risks associated with taking an experimental drug.

Amy Cahill is an award-winning freelance writer based in Stevensville, Mich. She and her husband have two children who provide most of the inspiration for her parenting articles.

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lakeside health

Lory’s Place Grieving with Healthy Bodies and Healthy Minds

By Marcy Blesy

To everything “there is a season , and a time to every purpose .

So goes the well-known saying.

”

Not a family, young or old, goes unmarked by the loss of a loved one. We are all touched by it and all wish that we were not. Though time often lessens the pain, grief is a journey that lasts a lifetime.

Friends, counselors or churches can offer a person a soft place to land after a loss. Yet, personally speaking, having lost loved ones far too early, I have never found a more vibrant, comforting program than the one offered by Lory’s Place in St. Joseph, Michigan.

Founded in 2005, and named after Dr. Lory Schults who died in a traffic accident in 2004, Lory’s Place is a warm, loving facility that specializes in walking with an individual in his or her grief journey. Director Lisa Bartoszek outlines the program: “Lory’s Place provides peer support groups for children as young as 3 years of age all the way through adults of any age. Our foundational philosophy of the great impact of peer support is a guiding principle of our program services.”

54 LAKESIDE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

At Lory’s Place, the groups support four realms of grief during their activities. Says Bartoszek, “People misunderstand that grief is not just an emotional response to loss. Really, grief touches all parts of a life: cognitive, spiritual, physical and emotional.”

The activities at Lory’s Place are structured to support all facets of how grief affects a person. Adults may write in journals, listen to books or share conversation. Staff often needs only to start a dialogue and let the adults dictate what they need on any given night. For children, colorful rooms include the “shipwreck room” where kids are allowed to safely throw pillows or rip up phone books to release emotions, or they may draw a memory picture. Though sad events bring people to Lory’s Place, one often hears laughter as participants feel safe and accepted by a roomful of others who truly understand.

Outside of the facility, Lory’s Place offers walking classes in warmer weather. Bartoszek says, “Anybody can walk. It is a great release for people to walk and talk and share their grief in a non-threatening way.” Another way Lory’s Place deals with the physical impact of grief for people is to sponsor “Cooking for One” classes.

In the summer, Lory’s Place offers camps for children to continue the “grief work” needed for each individual. One camp is focused on food. “We use the metaphor of food and how it can change from its raw form into something else. So, too, while you are still the same person, you are changed by grief. The camp will be a mini-culinary experience,” says Bartozzek. Two other camps will focus on art, one more expressive in nature in the arts district of Benton Harbor and the other to be held in the South Haven area with a focus on arts and using the beach as a backdrop.

Lory’s Place is located blocks from Lake Michigan. Its décor is beach themed. On a large wall is a mural of stormy lake waters with dark clouds. But in the middle of the clouds is a ray of sun trying to break through. This quote adorns another wall: “Lory’s Place offers a life ring of hope.” From personal experience, I cannot recommend enough that if your family ever feels adrift on those stormy waters, that you grab hold of the Lory’s Place life ring. All services are free, and that ray of sunlight beckons.

To learn more, please contact Lory’s Place at lorysplace.org.

On May 19th, Lory’s Place will hold its annual “Run, Walk, Rock” 5K fundraiser. “Lory was a runner, so this was a natural idea for raising money to honor her skills,” says Bartoszek. “And people get to see Lory’s Place in action.” (The event begins and ends on Upton Drive in St. Joseph where Lory’s Place is located.) Guests of participants can sit in rocking chairs that line the route.

Many of the rocking chairs are sponsored in memory of a loved one.

Marcy Blesy is a mother, former teacher and current freelance writer.

She resides in southwest Michigan.

LAKESIDE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APIRL 2012

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APRIL 2012

Lakeside FAMILY Calendar of Events

Mondays

10:30 AM. For more info, call 269.983.7167 or visit youseemore.com/maudpreston

Bridgman Public Library, Bridgman

Wednesdays

Baby N Me

A program for parents, caregivers and their babies from newborn to 24 months.

Parents guide their babies through creative movement, songs, dance, story-time and more with the help of instructor Teri Sue Wines. Parents will have the opportunity to interact with their babies, meet other parents and give their babies a chance to play with others. Registration is required.

Free event. From 10:45 to 11:15 AM. For more info, visit bridgmanlibrary.com.

Bedtime Story Time Lincoln Township Library, Stevensville

Stories, songs and crafts for preschool and early elementary ages. Free event.

From 7 to 7:30 PM. For more info, visit lincolntownshiplibrary.org.

Tuesdays Baby Laptime

New Buffalo Township Library, New Buffalo

Enjoy a special time for songs, stories and lap rhymes for you and your baby, ages 3 to 18 months. This is a free event. From 11 to 11:30 AM. For more info, call 269.469.2933.

Story Hour Bridgman Public Library, Bridgman

Come join Teri Sue for lots of fun as she reads stories and sings songs. Make great crafts and have a snack, too! Registration is required.

For 2-5 year olds. Free event. Starts at 10:30 AM. For more info, call 269.465.3663.

Toddler N Me Bridgman Public Library, Bridgman

For parents, caregivers and their child from 2-5 years old. Parents guide their toddlers through the joys of toddlerhood with creative movement, songs, dance, finger plays and more with the help of Teri Sue Wines. Parents will have the opportunity to engage one on one with their little one, meet other parents and give their little one a chance to play with others. Registration is required. Class offered 9:30 to10 AM or 11:30 to 12 PM. Free event.

For more info, call 269.465.3663.

Story Time St. Joseph/Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library, St. Joseph

Story Time for kids up to age 3 and story time for ages 3-5 are held in two locations within the library at the same time. Free event.

56 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

Story Time

St. Joseph/Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library, St. Joseph

Story Time for ages up to age 3 and story time for ages 3-5 are held in two locations within the library at the same time. Free event. 10:30 AM. For more info, call 269.983.7167. youseemore.com/ maudpreston

Wee Discovery Curious Kids’ Museum on the Bluff, St. Joseph

Preschool story and hands-on discovery activities. Free with admission of $4 per person or your membership. 10:30 AM. For more info, visit curiouskidsmuseum.org.

Mom and Baby Exercise Class Thomson’s Physical Therapy, Niles, Michigan

Come get that pre-pregnancy body back while you stimulate your child’s development and learning. Classes are offered every Wednesday morning at 9:30 AM, and free childcare is provided for toddlers during the class (for mothers with more than one). Call for pricing info. For more info call 269.687.9110.

Thursdays

Walk-in Story Time

Lakeshore Learning Store offers free craft activities for kids ages 3 and up at all of their locations! Please visit lakeshorelearning.com.

Monday, April 2 Baby n Me

Bridgman Public Library, Louise Christensen Community Room

Join Teri Sue in her wonderful programs for babies and their parent/caregiver.

Please sign up for this program through the website online, or stop in to the library.

From 10:45 to 11:45 AM. For more info, visit bridgmanlibrary.com.

Monday, April 9

An Evening with an Endocrinologist Lakeland Health Park, Marie Yeager Cancer Center, St. Joseph

Parents with children of diabetes are invited to a free dinner and talk titled “The Next Generation of Blood Glucose Monitoring.”

Yaw Appiagyei-Dankah, MD is board-certified in Pediatric Endocrinolgy. Pre-registration for the event is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. From 5:30 to 6:30 PM. Free event.

This will be held on the second floor in the Ward Conference Room. For more info, visit lakelandhealth.org or call 269.556.2868.

Tuesday, April 10

Morning Book Discussion Lincoln Township Public Library, Stevensville

Enjoy stories and songs for preschoolers.

Free event. From 10:30 to 11 AM.

Come and discuss “Firefly Lane” by Kristin Hannah. Copies are available. This is a free event.

From 10:30 to 11:30 AM. For more info, visit lincolntownshiplibrary.org or call 269.429.9575.

Fridays

Saturday, April 14

Lincoln Township Library, Stevensville

Storytime Fun New Buffalo Township Library, New Buffalo

A program designed for preschoolers, bring your child and enjoy stories, songs and crafts! From 10:30 to 11:15 AM. Free event.

For more info, call 269.469.2933.

Fun Friday Lincoln Township Library, Stevensville

Stories, songs and take-home crafts for preschoolers. Free event. From 10:30 to 11 AM. Visit lincolntownshiplibrary.org.

Saturdays Free Art Craft!

Lakeshore Learning Store, Sterling Heights, Michigan

Every Saturday from 11 AM to 3 PM,

TRIpocalypse

Pioneer High School, Ann Arbor

First annual TRIpocalypse hosted by U of M Triathlon! There will be divisional awards for standard age groups, as well as for the relay teams. There will be parking at Pioneer High School, but be aware that the Spring Game and Big Heart Big House are the same weekend, so show up early if you want a spot! $50. Starts at 8 AM. Sponsored by the University of Michigan Triathlon Club.

For teens and adults. For more info, visit mtriathlon.org or call 517.648.2720.

Natural Living Health Fair Customs Imports, New Buffalo

Visitors can browse the services and products offered throughout Harbor

*Please be sure to call ahead to confirm times and information.

Country. From 11 AM to 4 PM, Eastern Time. Enjoy a free yoga class, free massage and more! First 50 people to check in will receive a free goody bag filled with natural products, samples and coupons! Door prizes throughout the event as well as free workshops, classes and demos! Event and workshop admission is free, but donations welcome as 100% of net proceeds from the event will benefit HELP for Southwest Michigan. For more information, please visit wix.com/ros777/naturallivinghealthfair or call 219.861.3707.

John Prine “Legendary Songwriter & American Treasure” Morris Performing Arts Center, South Bend

With his trademark guitar finger-picking and unmistakable songwriting voice, Grammy winner John Prine continues to mesmerize diverse audiences with his humble poetry, describing often-overlooked crannies of everyday life. From 8 to 10:30 PM. Tickets from $49.50 to $59.50. For more info call, 574.235.9198 or visit morriscenter.org.

Monday, April 16

100th Anniversary of the Sinking of the Titanic, With Dan Keto

Bridgman Public Library, Christensen Community Room

Dan Keto from the Kalamazoo Nature Center will be here to do his program “Great Lakes & Ships” in honor of the 100 Anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic. Everyone is welcome to come to this fun program, for all ages!! From 3:30 to 4:30 PM. For more info, visit bridgmanlibrary.com.

Tuesday, April 17

Breastfeeding Class for Moms and Dads at Lakeland HealthCare Lakeland Community Hospital, Niles

Breastfeeding provides the best nutrition for your baby and is a special time for mothers and babies to bond. The class will cover: The benefits of breastfeeding, how to know when your baby is hungry, proper latchon methods and more! Cost is $30. From 6 to 8:30 PM. For more information, visit lakelandhealth.org/breastfeeding or call 269.556.2808.

Evening Book Discussion Lincoln Township Public Library, Stevensville

Come and discuss the “Freedom Writer’s Diary: How a Teacher and 150 Teens used Writing to

Change Themselves and the World Around Them” by Erin Gruwell. Copies are available at the library. This is a free vent. From 6:30 to 8:30 PM. For more info, visit lincolntownshiplibrary. org or call 269.429.9575.

Thursday, April 19 Saving Money and Energy

Lincoln Township Public Library, Stevensville

Representatives from AEP will discuss the company’s energy efficiency programs and incentives. No registration is required. The first 15 people to arrive will receive a free CFL light bulb. Free event. From 7 to 8 PM. For more info, visit lincolntownshiplibrary. org or call 269.429.9575.

Saturday, April 21 Scrapbooking

Bridgman Public Library, Christensen Community Room

Join Sue Tolsma as she and others scrapbook both digitally and traditionally.

Sue is here if you need help with ideas and she has items available to purchase, too.

This is a drop in program; it is not necessary for you to stay for the entire day. Bring your own sack lunch or take a break and go to one of our local restaurants. No fee is required, but registration is suggested.

This is an adult program 17 and up. From 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Call 269.465.3663 to reserve your spot!

Tuesday, April 24

Sesame Street Live “Elmo’s Super Heroes” Morris Performing Arts Center, South Bend

Calling all super heroes! Super Grover has lost his super-ness! Never fear, the fabulous five Super Heroes are here -- featuring Elmo as Captain Fuzzy! Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Zoe and all their furry friends are on a quest to put the “super” back in Super Grover.

From 7 PM to 9 PM. There is also an April 25 showing. Tickets from $14 to $52.75.

For more info, call 574.235.9190 or visit morriscenter.org.

best-selling author, humorist and handyman has been entertaining audiences for the past 20 years with his popular PBS Television series, “The Red Green Show.” $48.50.

From 7 to 9:30 PM. For more info, visit morriscenter.org or call 574.235.9198.

Upcoming May Events Thursday, May 10 Spring Spa Open House

Women’s Health Center/Medical Spa Services, St. Joseph

In honor of Mother’s Day, the Women’s Health Center at Southwestern Medical Clinic in St. Joseph will host a spa-themed Spring Open House. Thank your mom by pampering her with the latest skincare products and a free treatment. Every guest who brings their mom will earn her a complimentary skincare treatment. From 6 to 8 PM. For more info, visit swmc.org or call 269.429.8010.

Monday, May 14

Breastfeeding Class for Moms and Dads at Lakeland HealthCare Lakeland Center for Outpatient Services, St. Joseph

Breastfeeding provides the best nutrition for your baby and is a special time for mothers and babies to bond. The class will cover the benefits of breastfeeding, how to know when your baby is hungry, proper latchon methods, checking your baby’s input (feeding) and output (dirty or wet diapers), how to prepare to return to work, weaning.

Parents should attend the class prior to their baby’s birth. From 6 to 8:30 PM. Cost is $30 due at registration. For more info, visit lakelandhealth.org/breastfeeding or call 269.556.2808.

Thursday, April 26

Red Green “Wit & Wisdom” Tour at the Morris Morris Performing Arts Center, South Bend

A string of sold out shows in the U.S. and Canada has led to the return of everyone’s favorite wacky handyman - Red Green! The THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

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The Local Parenting Resource for Expectant Parents and Families with Younger Children

Special Section

Growing Young Nature Lovers A Learning Activity for Your Kids!

Spring into Love!

With Five Ways to Say “I Love You”

When Worlds Collide Dinner with a Child-Free Friend

Creative Discipline for Your Super Awesome Tweens Playdates

MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

M i C H I L D • S P E C I A L PA R E N T I N G F E AT U R E S E C T I O N

mi Corner Our tips, picks, news and advice.

Growing Young Nature Lovers A Learning Activity for Your Kids!

60 MI CHILD MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

W

hether you’re a parent, a classroom teacher or a homeschool instructor, you know that kids learn best when they can interact with their subject. It can be fun and inspirational to explore and experience an educational concept first hand.

The project featured here comes from a free resource that’s helping to inspire an appreciation of botany in elementary-aged students. The educator website MyBotanicPlanet.com is a creative collaboration between TruGreen, the nation’s largest professional lawn, tree and shrub care service provider, and the Memphis Botanic Garden.

Standardized lesson plans in botany and related activities available on MyBotanicPlanet.com were created by professional curriculum developers to help grades K–5 teachers and students explore the diverse plant world.

So, as the flowers bloom this spring, use this opportunity do a fun flower investigation with your little ones at home!

The Lesson: Flower Investigation

There’s no better way for kids to investigate the parts of a flower than by dissecting real ones.

What you need: • Enough real flowers for pairs or groups to work together.

Alstroemerias and gladiolus work well and are available year round at many supermarket floral departments. Azaleas or any member of the lily family could also be used because the parts are welldefined and easy to see.

• Plastic knives and tweezers could be used for dissecting equipment.

• A magnifying glass would allow for closer inspection.

Getting started: 1. Open up the flower. This is easily done by first locating the base of the flower and slicing or splitting it in half. Use a dissection tool or even a fingernail.

2. Next, slice or pinch off the petals. Remind your kids to be careful with all of the tiny pieces. It’s easy to damage or brush away some of the most important parts.

Review the parts of the flower: • Petal: This is the colorful part of the flower that attracts the attention of birds, bees and butterflies, letting them know that there is food inside the flower. Have the kids record how many petals their flower has and what they look like.

• Stamen: This is where the pollen is made. For older children, you could also point out that the top part that holds the pollen is the anther and the stem part is called the filament. Students should record how many stamens their flower has. If it has six petals, it will also have six stamens. If they have an extra piece, then one should look a little bit different and is actually part of the pistil.

• Pistil: This is where the seeds are made. The pistil is made of three different parts. The very top of the pistil is called the stigma. The stigma is where the pollen falls when a pollinator brings it in. The pollen travels down the tube (style) and goes down to the bottom (ovary) where the seeds will form. Split the pistil lengthwise to look inside. You should see unfertilized beginnings of seeds. The seed pattern inside will be the same pattern of seeds within the fruit later. If you cut an apple in half horizontally and see the five seeds in a star pattern, you will know that the flower’s pistil had five compartments.

• Sepal: These are the tiny leaves on the lower part of the flower that protect it before it begins to bloom. Every flowering bud is hidden safely behind these two little leaves until the flower is fully developed. When the bloom begins to grow, the sepal will split open and the petals can break out.

Next Steps

For Grades K–2 Fold a piece of paper in half twice, creating four smaller panels. Go on a discovery walk where kids draw pictures of various flowering plants.

Have the children draw flowers they see. Collect all of the images and sort the flowers according to color, type and where they were seen.

Then create a “Kids in Bloom” bulletin board where the pictures are showcased.

For Grades 3–5 Pollinator Power: Ask students to research a specific pollinator, such as bees, butterflies or moths and find out where they live, how much nectar they eat, how many plants they visit in a day, etc., and report back to you or the group. For example, hummingbirds can visit up to 1,500 flowers a day and consume almost twice their body weight in nectar daily.

Extension lesson Every fruit began as a flower. In an apple, for example, the petals withered away and the ovary grew containing the seeds, but there are other parts still there, like the sepal and flower stem. Bring in various fruits to “dissect” and examine the seeds and other parts. Chart their similarities and differences.

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M i C H I L D • S P E C I A L PA R E N T I N G F E AT U R E S E C T I O N

Story Time

The Candymakers

By Wendy Mass

Reviewed by Anne Britton, Children’s Services Bittersweet Branch of the Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library Life is sweet when you grow up in a candy factory like Logan Sweet had his entire life. He could detect the ingredients in candy by taste alone.

When he finally turned 12, he was allowed to enter the annual contest to make an original candy confection. Joining him were three other contestants: Miles, who is allergic to everything, especially pink; Daisy, who is always cheerful and very strong; and Philip who is always writing things down in his notebook. They all arrived at the candy factory to join Logan in learning about the candy making process, each having their own agenda of why they were there.

“The Candymakers” by Wendy Mass is unique because it is divided into five parts with each character narrating what they are experiencing in the two days prior to the contest. The story unfolds through each one’s perspective, making the tale more and more complex. As the twists and turns continue, the narration switches back to Logan to share events from the night before and the day of the contest that could change his lifelong dreams.

This book will appeal to both boys and girls from the age of 9-12 and is also a great book to read aloud to a younger elementary age child. Among the unexpected plot twists and elements of mystery are subtle messages about finding yourself and friendship. This is a sweet, delicious mystery all rolled into one good book.

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MI CHILD MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

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M i C H I L D • S P E C I A L PA R E N T I N G F E AT U R E S E C T I O N

Mommy & Daddy

Spring into Love!

With Five Ways to Say “I Love You”

By Laurie Puhn

B

efore you had children, you probably looked forward to spring as a blossoming time for fun. You enjoyed a rebirth of dating, dinners, happy hours and plenty of outdoor activities to put you under the sun every weekend. Now, with children, warmer weather means one thing: finally, the kids can go outside to play.

This year, I’d like spring to mean two things (yes, the kids are out of your house, more often), but also, it can and should mean that it’s the season to put a little zest into your love life. The difference between same-old evenings and ones that spark a smile is the difference between saying this and saying that. Could it be any easier?

64 MI CHILD MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

Five New Ways to Say “I Love You” in 30 Seconds or Less 1. Use “Follow Up” Bonds

When your mate tells you about something that’s going to happen that day, whether it’s a meeting, a doctor’s appointment, or taking your son or daughter to a soccer game, always make it a top priority to call, text or email your mate to ask, “How did it go?” By following up, you are saying, “you matter to me and I love you.”

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2. Bestow “Focused” Talk

If you and your mate are away from each other during the day, and you are busy but have access to e-mail or text messaging, take 30 seconds to send a romantic note saying, “Just thinking about you,” “How’s your day going?” or “Looking forward to seeing you tonight.”

3. Offer “Pitch-in” Connectors

Volunteering to help your mate with tasks (like those in the kitchen or child care) even when you are busy, tired or overwhelmed yourself is another powerful way to say, “I love you.

You are special to me and I care about you.”

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4. Display “Face-to-Face” Expressions

As love becomes a permanent fixture in our lives, we often take it for granted. Don’t ignore your mate. Routinely say hello and goodbye to each other and engage in one sentence face-to-face expressions of love such as “I love our life together,” “You’re a great mother/father,” or “Your were so kind to do that for me.”

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5. Exhibit “Touch and Go” Contact

When you and your mate arrive home, how much time passes before you touch each other or offer a quick hug or kiss? When you and your mate are together, whether you are watching TV, emptying the dishwasher or reading, take 30 seconds to reach out to each other. If your kids see you doing this, even better. A quick touch says, “I see you.

I hear you. I love you.”

Spring is the time for new beginnings. Whatever you did yesterday, you can make today a little sweeter, a little kinder and a little more loving with the right words at the right time.

Laurie Puhn is a Harvard-educated lawyer, couples mediator, relationship expert, and bestselling author of “Fight Less, Love More: 5-Minute Conversations to Change Your Relationship without Blowing Up or Giving In,” who appears on Good Morning America, 20/20, Fox News and CNN. Most importantly, she is a wife and mother to two young children.

Visit her interactive site at www.fightlesslovemore.com.

“The Montessori Academy is a nationally accredited school offering a values-based education through brain-based learning - a school dedicated to promoting academic excellence, self-worth, self-discipline and a passion for learning.” www.aneducationforlife.org 574-256-5313 530 East Day Road, Mishawaka, IN (east of Grape Rd. and Main St.) www.tma-el.org 574-256-5313 530 East Day Road, Mishawaka, IN (east of Grape Rd. and Main St.) MI CHILD MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

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M i C H I L D • S P E C I A L PA R E N T I N G F E AT U R E S E C T I O N

Mommy & Daddy

When Worlds Collide Dinner with a Child-Free Friend

By Jane Suter

I love you more

Every now and then I’m reminded of how different my life is from my child-free friend. And when I say different, I mean worlds apart – like Mars and Pluto. But we somehow manage to stay connected by planning the occasional dinner out. Take last night for instance.

We met at a sit down restaurant – the kind that has linen tablecloths. You know, not McDonald’s. So, I was obviously psyched. My friend introduced me, my husband and two sons to her new boyfriend who, I could tell, really dug my pal based on their hand-holding and long, soulful kisses. I believe the last time my husband and I smooched like that was on our wedding day. Nevertheless, we chatted while my boys fought over who 66 MI CHILD MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

gets to hold the blinking thingy that alerts us when our table is ready. Happily, the electronic beeper detonated within 10 minutes, and we were led to our table, or as I like to call it, musical chairs.

“I want to sit next to Dad!” “You sat next to him last time!”

Back and forth, my kids wrestled with the seats. Yeah. We were a spectacle. The lovebirds were obviously embarrassed while the other parents in the restaurant just smiled. Quickly, I negotiated peace by rearranging the table, and we all sat down.

Menus were dispersed and the blissful couple tenderly discussed the fare while I focused on the children’s menu. I debated with the boys over their options, nixed the fries for a vegetable and avoided total anarchy by agreeing to dessert. Mingled in with this were my husband’s questions: “Do I like sea bass?”

“Yes,” I replied “but it comes with scallops, and you hate them.”

Now I’m scanning the entrées for something for him, while assuring the kids that no, they don’t have to eat all the broccoli I’m forcing them to order; they just have to eat one big “tree.” I then tell my husband he would like the fajitas – “But no green peppers, they give you gas. And get the salsa on the side.” Now I ask you: how is it possible that I can remember this level of minutia but forget where my car keys are?

Anyway, now that the entire table was ready, the waitress arrived. I politely asked her for a few more minutes, to the complete irritation of my children.

“Mommmm, why does it take you so long to decide?”

So, I begrudgingly ordered whatever was pictured on the table tent.

What does it matter – I haven’t enjoyed a hot meal since 2003.

Once the drinks arrived, my boys started chugging them like dehydrated longshoreman on leave, so I moved them next to me.

Then I collected the sharp knives, the salt and pepper shakers and the bread basket. Peering over the heap, I listened to my friend’s stories of weekends in wine country and the concert they just attended.

And by the way, interspersed among these tales were exchanges between the couple of “I love you more”… “No, I love you more …”

I glanced down at the pile of knives in front me, my eye twitching. To pull it together, I began playing hangman with my youngest – then tic-tac-toe. To be honest, I was jealous, not of her love life, but of her freshly showered, well-rested, exuberant self. That used to be me!

Once the food came, I no longer had time to obsess. I was too busy cutting up (and blowing on) food, placing napkins on laps, making sure nothing touched on the plates, removing garnishes and redistributing drinks. Then my husband asked me, “How is your dinner?”

“Great!” I said, even though I hadn’t had even one bite yet. But the crew was settled and all was right with the world. Even the sweethearts were getting used to the flurry of activity.

By dessert, it was like no time had passed at all between me and my friend. And my jealousy? That vanished the moment my son climbed onto my lap and whispered, “I love you, Mommy.”

I whispered back, “I love you more.”

And right there, in the middle of the nice restaurant with the fancy linen napkins, Mars and Pluto merged. I realized it doesn’t matter that my friend and I lead such different lives, because in the universe of friendship, we align perfectly.

Jane Suter is an award-winning writer and mom of two very energetic boys, one in kindergarten and the other in second grade.

Born in Chicago, she is proud of her Midwestern roots.

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MI CHILD MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

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M i C H I L D • S P E C I A L PA R E N T I N G F E AT U R E S E C T I O N

Big Kids

Creative

Discipline for Your Super Awesome Tweens

By Michelle Wegner

68 MI CHILD MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

I’ve got great kids. You’ve got even better kids. You know so because they are yours, and yours are always better than everyone else’s, so we will just agree that your kids are awesome. Amazing. Superstars.

Fantastic. Fabulous. I know, I know. I’ve seen them around town. But, something occasionally goes wrong. We’ll call it a glitch. Between the ages of 8 and 13, a tween’s brain is bathed in hormones, rewiring their systems and occasionally causing a “glitch” in their behavior. I know it’s a rare occasion, but when your tween has this occasional glitch, what do you do about it?

I’m talking about the usual, expected kind of bad behavior a tween might want to succumb to. Lying, back-talking, eye-rolling, stealing your expensive Ugg boots for the day – hoping you wouldn’t notice... that kind of thing.

We try to avoid the word “punishment” at our house. We like to refer to it as a “consequence.” We try to teach our kids that every behavior, good or bad, has a consequence. The power is in their hands to make the choices they want to make about their behavior.

Good behavior will earn a good consequence; negative behavior will earn a negative consequence.

There are a few different types of consequences we normally use at our house. The most difficult part of parenting I think is constantly adapting to the changes that are happening in the lives of our kids.

One consequence may not have the same effect on a child from day to day, so we are constantly in a state of flux. Nothing is set in stone, and the consequences vary from kid to kid and from day to day. Here are some of the most effective ones we are using right now:

Your Ideas

While some of my more sarcastic Facebook friends suggested water boarding, duct taping them to the wall, and turning the crawl space into their bedroom, I think the following parents had some creative ideas that really worked to accomplish the goal of great behavior: Love and logic teaches to let them learn by the natural consequences of their choices. ~Michelle My mom often took away internet and TV until whatever it was that got me in trouble was fixed. ~Aleyna Each kid gets an allowance, amount based on the amount of chores assigned and age appropriate. For each incident, a percentage of the allowance is taken away. If they want their full amount at the end of the week, they need to do extra chores. We keep track on laminated cards with a dry erase marker. ~Shane Taking away privileges and the use of love and logic is (so far) working for my tween – when she is ready to listen, that is! ~Beth

Monetary Pain

I make my boys hold hands! It’s torture! ~Sarah

A Big No To All Things Tech

Discipline them softly. Wait a few years, and they will be just fine. I raised a girl, and she turned out perfect. ~Mike (My Dad)

The offender loses money out of their weekly allowance.

No iPod. No computer. No games on Mom’s Kindle Fire or Dad’s iPad.

Temporary Banishment

At least that’s what our girls call it when they are grounded. Pretty much grounding in our house means no friends over, no going to a friend’s house or anywhere with friends other than school and church for their youth group.

Chore Snatching

If one child decides they have better things to do than clean their own room or do the assigned chores for that day, we pay a sibling (usually our youngest, most enthusiastic chore-snatcher) to do the chore because it needs to be done. The amount of money it cost us to pay the chore-snatcher gets taken out of the offenders allowance.

We are trying to raise three independent, strong-minded, spirited girls. We intentionally challenge them to assert themselves in situations they feel strongly about. There is a fuzzy line somewhere between “good” independent, strong-minded and spirited, and “bad” independent and spirited. Our job as parents is to help our girls see that line and know when they are getting too close to the other side where they really don’t want to go.

Parenting is tough, but when both you and your child know what to expect when it comes to consequences, a lot of unnecessary anger is alleviated in the moment of frustration. Be creative, have fun, and keep raising such awesome kids!

Love Fest

This is probably the least favorite of all the consequences among the Wegner girls. When there are serious infractions between two or more members of our family that cannot be worked out by simply talking it through, they are put in a room together until they can come out friends. The rules are that they cannot inflict any kind of physical pain on each other, but they can say whatever they want. They must come out friends or they can’t come out.

Michelle Wegner is mom to three spirited little girls, Maddie-12, Whitney-10 and Isabelle-6. Her husband is a pastor at Granger Community Church, and they have been married for 17 years.

MI CHILD MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

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M i C H I L D • S P E C I A L PA R E N T I N G F E AT U R E S E C T I O N

P lay Dates

P lay Dates

Yes, you’ve made it! Once again, you’ve survived another winter and will now receive your just rewards by enjoying what looks to be a beautiful Michiana spring. The impending good weather means you’ll want to hit the town and find excuses to be out and about. And we’re here to help with that! Just check out these upcoming events for you and your little ones.

70 MI CHILD MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

Get Your Health On

It’s time for kids, lethargic from the inactivity of winter, to get their little bodies movin’ again, and we have an event that’s sure to get them back into the swing of things! Don’t miss the YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day. There are loads of activities that the kids will love like the Jump Rope master shows, Healthworks Hummer, Family Fun Run, Inflatables, Police K-9 demonstrations, scuba lessons, vision screenings, and lots of kid-friendly vendors and demos!

The fun starts on Saturday, April 14th from 10 AM to 1 PM. If you have questions or want to learn more, check out their website at elkhartymca.org or call 574.389.7878.

Breastfeeding Made Easy

So, you’re preggo and either wondering how this whole breastfeeding thing works, or you’ve had a kid and just wonder if there are easier ways or new tips you should know about. Either way, we have you covered! Learn the best about breastfeeding from this class for moms and dads at Lakeland Community Hospital in Niles. The class will cover a whole host of goodies like the benefits of breastfeeding, how to know when your baby is hungry, proper latch-on methods, checking your baby's input (feeding) and output (dirty or wet diapers), how to prepare to return to work and weaning. Parents should attend the class prior to their baby's birth.

The class takes place Tuesday, April 17th from 6 to 8:30 PM. The cost for this class is $30 due at registration. For more information, visit lakelandhealth. org/breastfeeding or call 269.556.2808.

Lego Lovers Unite!

If your junior architect has gone as far as his or her little Lego set can take ‘em, here’s an activity you don’t want to miss. It’s Lego My Library at the Bittersweet branch of the MishawakaPenn-Harris Library system. Kids in grades 1-6 will pool their energies to erect a massive Lego tower! And their joint endeavor will then be on display for all the world to see (well, at least those visiting the library). Kids can leave their Legos at home as all building materials for this special project will be provided by the library.

This meeting of the minds will take place at 2 PM on Wednesday, April 4th.

You’ll need to register your kids, so contact the Children’s Service desk of the Bittersweet Branch Library, or call 574.259.0392.

Steppin’ Out With My Baby

Now that it’s spring, you’ll want any excuse you can get to go out and enjoy the warmer weather! So here’s an event that does just that and will have you socializing with others as well. Don’t miss the Spring Stroller Walk at Bendix Woods County Park in New Carlisle.

Bring your baby or toddler (up to 3 years old) in a stroller or baby carrier, to experience one of the most beautiful spring wildflower spots in the county.

The program will include songs, stories, snacks and a guided walk. Registration is required by May 1st.

The walk takes place on May 3rd and lasts from 10 to 11:30 AM. It’s only $3 per child. For more info, call 574.654.3155.

MI CHILD MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

71

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73

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Concord Ridge Equestrian Center Resource Directory

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Dunes Learning Center Chesterton

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Kids’ Kollection

74 THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

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Resource Directory

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A Lifetime of Care

Choosing the right level of care after you or your loved one leaves the hospital may seem overwhelming. Lakeland HealthCare provides services at every level of need so you or your loved one can have the best possible quality of life in the hospital, at home, as an outpatient, or in a living center.

Services at Home

Living Centers

• •

•

•

Skilled Homecare health professionals Health Services for extra help to keep you in your home Lifeline personal response service

Rehabilitation and Therapy Services • •

Outpatient programs at eight area locations Acute inpatient rehabilitation

Wound Care •

Berrien County’s only hyperbaric oxygen therapy services

Medical Equipment and Supplies • •

•

St. Joseph – 5 star “overall” rating by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Berrien Center – the only hospital-based skilled nursing facility in 10 counties

End-of-Life Care • • •

Hospice at Home Palliative Care Bereavement Services through Lory’s Place

The Lakeland HealthCare team will guide you through the options as you or your loved one transitions through our continuum of care.

Call (269) 800-373-0892 or 985-4400 in the twin cities to learn more.

Serving all of southwest Michigan in partnership with Van’s Medical Equipment of Lakeland Home Infusion services

www.lakelandhealth.org THE FAMILY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012

75

April is National Cancer Control Month Join Lakeland HealthCare to learn about the services, screenings, and resources available to help you take control in your fight against cancer.

Cancer Awareness Resources Education (CARE) Fair Wednesday, April 25 Center for Outpatient Services, St. Joseph 3900 Hollywood Road  9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. – Educational trade fair  Noon to 1:00 p.m. – Physician panel discussion April is National Cancer Control Month.

According to the American Cancer Society, about one-third of the 577,190 cancer deaths expected to occur in the United States in 2012 will be attributable to lifestyle factors.

Prevention and education are the best defenses against cancer.

Community members are encouraged to learn more about local resources to fight cancer at this free event. Healthcare professionals, community partners, and support groups will be on hand to share information and answer questions. Guests can: Walk an educational trade fair that will include information about adopting a healthy lifestyle and following age-appropriate cancer screening guidelines.

Design a glass coaster similar to the montage of tiles hanging in the Marie Yeager Cancer Center.

Attend a presentation and book signing by local author and lung cancer survivor Michael Hall.

Listen to a physician panel discussion titled “When Cancer Hits Below the Belt — The Effects of Cancer on Male Sexuality.”

•

• • •

For more information about the CARE Fair, call (269) 556-2808 or (866) 260-7544.

Or, visit www.lakelandhealth.org/cancercare