October 2021 | Fall Adventures

october 2021 | mtparent.com

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After-School & PIR-Day Activities and more...

Fall

Adventures

SAT OCT 2

october 2021

11am-4 pm VENDOR MARKET • BOUNCE HOUSE FA C E P A I NT IN G • C O T T O N C A N D Y 406 CIRQUE SHOW • KETTLE KORN P U MP K I N D E C O R AT IN G • P H O T O BOOT H F R E E C O S T U M E G R A B B A G S • A N D MORE !

KENYON NOBLE’S ANNUAL

COSTUMES ENCOURAGED & PUMPKINS PROVIDED AGE GROUPS 0-5, 6-9, 10-12 1ST, 2ND, 3RD PLACE PRIZES FOR EACH AGE GROUP

SATURDAY

OCTOBER 16TH, 2021

11AM - 1PM

AT ALL 3 LOCATIONS

BELGRADE | BOZEMAN | LIVINGSTON

4949 JACKRABBIT LN

1243 W OAK ST

100 WASHINGTON ST

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october 2021

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Visi

11 a.t with m. - Sa 2 p. nta m.

FREE FAMILY EVENT

Bazaar HOSTED BY

montana parent

November 27, 2021 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

GranTree Inn, Bozeman Vendors register online at www.mtparent.com/holiday-bazaar For those who create unique, local products and those operating home-based businesses, Montana Parent welcomes back the Holiday Bazaar — a holiday shopping event catered to people with small, creative endeavors.

Support one another and our community by purchasing booth space for the Montana Parent Holiday Bazaar.

Cost is $125 per booth | Questions? Contact cora@mtparent.com

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october 2021

TIPS UP TO 50 YEARS OF SKIING! Get your family out skiing this season!

------------------------- Junior Ski Lease starts October 1, 2021 -------------------------

1422 West Main Street | www.roundhouse-sports.com | 406-587-1258

Primary Care Growing to meet your needs.

For many years, Billings Clinic has been serving the community of Bozeman with high quality, compassionate women’s and children’s services at our two locations in the Gallatin Valley. As our community continues to grow, so are we, by expanding our services to meet those needs by offering primary care, behavioral health, occupational health, ophthalmology, radiology, and urology to date.

Until our new Ambulatory Destination Center is completed (scheduled to open in late spring 2022), patients will be seen in our transitional space, which is over 10,000 sq. ft. of clinical space, including exam and treatment rooms, lab and imaging services, all located on site.

Growing to meet your needs.

Accepting patients now.

Jeff Lindley, MD Family Medicine

Kristen Prewitt, DO Family Medicine

Micah Puyear, DO

Family Medicine

Amy Consson, MD Internal Medicine

Kale Knudson, DO Internal Medicine

If you need assistance finding a physician who is right for you or need to make an appointment, call 406-898-1200 or visit billingsclinicbozeman.com.

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october 2021

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NOW BOOKING 2023 SENIOR SESSIONS LIMITED SESSIONS AVAILABLE

check out our

montana parent

website!

for more information, resources and fun things to do with your kids this spring visit

mtparent.com

montana parent magazine montana parent magazine of helena montana parent magazine of butte

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Destination sessions are available for Class of 2022!

ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE ALEXIS BRILL ALEXIS@MTPARENT.COM | 406-223-2775 ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE SANDRA JACOBS SANDRA@MTPARENT.COM | 406-599-6663 LAYOUT & DESIGN SHAUNESCY WILLARD & JESSICA GEARY-CECOTTI COPY EDITORS ELEONORE SNOW & LEIGH RIPLEY AD DESIGN JESSICA GEARY-CECOTTI & SHAUNESCY WILLARD

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: LEIGH RIPLEY BLAIR FJESETH LORI JO BERG JESSICA CARTWRIGHT ANNA LAU REBECCA COLNAR

* Montana Parent strives to provide accurate information and entertainment to our readers.

Some content may be based on opinion of the author and may not represent our views. We want all voices to be heard, so we all can be educated on both sides of important issues.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: MARIAH ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY JESSICA CARTWRIGHT LAUREN BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY RAVEN’S EYE PRODUCTIONS DESCHEEMAEKER

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october 2021

• What's Up? photos are from event social media pages if not supplied by the organization

© COPYRIGHT 2021 BY MEDIA MAVENS LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR PART WITHOUT PERMISSION PROHIBITED.

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE!

J

TUE SDAY SCI ENCE

oin MOSS for Tuesday Science! Each month-long session revolves around an exciting science topic.

Kids can discover what’s beneath their feet as a Junior Geologist, go from ‘ewwww’ to ‘awwwwe’ with Incredible Insects, and meet the newest spring residents with Animal Babies. Perfect for homeschool students or families looking for an afterschool program!

WWW. O UTDOOR S CIENCE.ORG

For details and to register, visit www.outdoorscience.org/Tuesday-Science GRADES: K-5 TIME: 3:30 - 5:30 LOCATION: MOSS Campus COST: $95 per session for MOSS members; $100 for non-members *Discounted pricing for multiple session registration!

406-582-0526

K

S CHO OL’ S OU T (PI R) CA M P S

eep the learning up, even when school’s out!

2021 PIR Camps will be based fully outdoors on the MOSS Campus and we’ll return to Museum of the Rockies for 2022, allowing kids to tie each MOR exhibit to a different related science topic. For details and to register visit www.outdoorscience.org/pir-camps.

GRADES: K-5 TIME: 9:00 - 5:00 LOCATION: MOSS, MOR, Livingston COST: $70 per day for MOSS members; $75 for non-members

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NEW THIS YE AR! PIR CAM PS RUN 9AM-5P M!

october 2021

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October 2021

PHOTO MARIAH ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Fall

Adventures Rocky Creek Farm 13 Montana Corn Maze 14 The Bozeman Maze is Back! 15 Fall Feastival 15 Autumn Activities in Helena 16 Junior Carpenter Pumpking Carving Contest 17

After-School & PIR Day Activities Bozeman Barracudas 24 Six Reasons Your Family Should Learn to Skate 25 After-School & PIR Day Activities Guide 26

Gallatin Valley Mall Fall Festival 18

What’s Up? Montana

Bozeman Winter Farmers’ Market 18

MBC’s 38th Annual Nutcracker 29

Seventh Annual Run for Your Life 19

What’s Up? Bozeman

Boo Bash 19 Waldorf Festivals 19 Falling for Farm to Table 20 Date Night 22

GVLT & City of Bozeman Protecting Peets Hill 30 Shodair’s New Mental Health Clinic in Bozeman 31 Preschool Events and Activities 32

What’s up? West Yellowstone

35

Regular Columns Family Life on the Ranch 36

Giveaway 8

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BOZEMAN’S MOST POPULAR LOCALLY MADE

Kid’s COOKING CAMPS & CLASSES Spooktacular Halloween Treats NO October 22, 1-4 p.m. | $100 SCHOOL October 23, 1-4 p.m. | $100

NOV

In addition to our popular meal subscriptions, we offer Pick-n-choose Dinners, Breakfast, A-la Carte and Bakery items!

We are your go-to dinner service.

Fully prepared family style meals delivered straight to your door.

Just reheat and eat!

All About Pumpkin October 13, 4-6:45 p.m. | $100

Fall Pies November 17, 4-6:45 p.m. | $100

DEC

OCT

MEAL DELIVERY SERVICE

Holiday Baking December 11, 1-4 p.m. | $100 December 12, 1-4 p.m. | $100

@ordersupdelivery To sign up for next week’s delivery and to learn about cooking camps and classes, please visit

ORDERSUPDELIVERY.COM

YOU A RE NOT A LONE The Gallatin Valley has many professional resources to help local families on their journey to parenthood. With this guide, new parents and providers will be able to connect the dots of support in our community.

The 2021 Roots Family Collaborative Perinatal Guide is always available online at mtparent.com Want to be featured in the 2022 Roots Family Collaborati ve Perinatal Guide?

If you want to be listed, you must fill out an application and meet eligibility requirements. please contact Suzanne Bendick of Roots Family Collaborative at hello@rootsfamilycollaborative.com or 406-570-0738.

If you are interested in purchasing an ad in the Roots Wellness Guide, please contact your account representative at Montana Parent or info@mtparent.com

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october 2021

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BEARTOOTH PASS

After a very hot and smokey summer, southwest Montanans are eagerly welcoming sweater-weather, football and all things autumn. To be truthful, we also

welcome a relief from tourist season and a return to the places and things we love without the crowds. Namely, Yellowstone National Park.

This is absolutely the best time to take your family to Yellowstone. The foliage is in full color, the soon-to-be hibernating animals are out and packing on the pounds for winter, the hot springs feel that much better with the crisp, cool air and BONUS: You may actually be able to secure a campsite or hotel room.

Things to note:

The Beartooth Highway closes on October 12. If your plans include driving this stunning stretch, then be sure to get it done soon. Leave for Gardiner (the North Entrance to the park) early so you can catch the best wildlife viewing – specifically in the Lamar Valley – at dawn.

Fall is famously the time for bears to be out, active and beefing up, but it’s also elk mating season, otherwise known as the rut.

Mammoth Hot Springs is usually a surefire place to hear the bugling. So, take it slow through Mammoth and keep your windows down.

From Mammoth, head to the Lamar Valley. Don’t be afraid to ask Park Rangers or scientists and enthusiasts with high powered scopes if they know where the bears and wolves are.

GRAND PRISMATIC - YELLOWSTONE

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Next, lunch in Cooke City and then make the scenic drive over the Beartooth pass. Making this journey during the daylight hours goes without explanation. At the end of the pass, you’ll find yourself in Red Lodge, which is a great place to shop, explore, dine and spend the night. Double back the next day to catch the Lamar Valley at dusk or motor home via I-90.

The West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park closes to vehicles on November 8. From the West Entrance, you can visit the Lower Geyser Basin, home to the Fountain Paint Pot. Midway Geyser Basin features the largest hot spring in the United States, the Grand Prismatic Spring. And finally, the Upper Geyser Basin is home to Old Faithful.

It’s best to arrive at Old Faithful first, and then visit the Upper and Midway Basins on the way back.

Once you’re back in West Yellowstone, enjoy a movie at the Giant Screen Theatre, visit the Grizzly Discovery Center, shop, eat and spend the night if you choose.

One of my favorite things about living so close to the park is taking advantage of spring and fall bicycling, when park roads are closed to motorized, public travel, and bikes (including e-bikes), roller blades and skate boards are allowed. Fall bicycling season begins November 8 this year and will remain open for approximately two weeks (weather depending).

Please note:

Roads will not be free of all cars during these times, so you may encounter employees, contractors, plows and other administrative vehicles. Pack a picnic lunch and take your family on a bike ride they will never forget.

There’s obviously so much more to do, but as locals we often avoid the tourist attractions, with Yellowstone National Park being one of the biggest. Take advantage of our backyard this fall and help instill in your children a love of nature, conservation, wildlife and the geological magic that is Yellowstone National Park.

Now hiring deli and seasonal holiday positions!

MONTANA THEMED GIFT BOXES, BUFFALO ELK AND BEEF SAUSAGES, SNACK STICKS AND JERKY. BUFFALO & ELK STEAKS, HUCKLEBERRY FAVORITES, SPECIALTY CHEESES.

Deli And Gift Shop • Open 7 Days A Week!

The Chalet Market • 6410 Jackrabbit Lane, Belgrade, MT 59714 chaletmarket.com • 1-800-752-1029 • 406-388-4687 Located just south of the 1-90 interchange in Belgrade. We Ship!

We ship to USA and APO addresses! Order online and send a taste of Montana to your family and friends!

LOCAL VEGGIES ALL WINTER!

FOOD · FUN · MUSIC

SATURDAYS · 9 A.M. - NOON

SEPTEMBER - MAY Gallatin County Fairgrounds

January 8 & 22 February 5 & 12 March 19 & 26 April 16 & 30 May 21 & 28

September 25 October 9 & 23 November 13 & 20 December 18

Greens · Vegetables · Meat · Cheese · Eggs · Honey · Bread · Jam · Tea · Coffee · Breakfast Sponsors & Partners: Broken Ground, Montana Parent, Bozeman Community Coop, Gallatin Valley Botanical, Montana Ale Works, Gallatin Valley Farm to School

www.bozemanwintermarket.com

Credit Cards and Double SNAP EBT accepted.

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local , r e g ional, or ga ni c food conv e ni e ntly de l i ve r e d to y our door . av ai la ble to cus tome r s i n t he ga llatin v all e y, bi g s ky , li v i ng st on, a nd be yond! vi s i t our onli ne mar ke t t o s hop: r ootce lla r foods .com

Are you a social media maven looking to work part time from home?

ALSO SEEKING FREELANCE AD DESIGNER

Montana Parent is looking for a part time remote office manager. The ideal candidate is connected to the parenting community, highly organized, able to work independently, and has some experience with Adobe Creative Suite, web content management systems, and project management software.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE Social media management: Posting engaging content for clients throughout the month on multiple social media accounts, updating cover images for specific events, creating and promoting Facebook events, and managing the tone and content of our Instagram feed. The position also involves creating e-blasts for clients on as-needed basis.

Blog and web content management: Sharing our monthly print content in as many ways, to as many people as possible.

Training will be provided. Salary negotiable.

To apply, please send a current resume and three references to workwithus@mtparent.com

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october 2021

Fall

Adventures

PHOTO MARIAH ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Gallatin Valley Botanical at

Rocky Creek Farm Gallatin Valley Botanical is a certified organic farm nestled in the fertile Rocky Creek bottomlands near Bozeman. With 57 diversified acres, farm owners Matt and Jacy Rothschiller raise certified organic vegetables, cut flowers, eggs, pastureraised meats and offer beloved Rocky Creek Farm traditions including a custom apple cider press, fall Pumpkin Patch, field trips, farm stand and U-pick berries.

The Fall Festival at Rocky Creek has been a Bozeman tradition for more than 30 years. Every weekend now through Halloween, the farm is packed with festivities: Hayrides to the pumpkin patch, apple picking, cider pressing and more. The farm stand will be stocked with seasonal produce, carving pumpkins, decorative gourds, dried flowers and ornamental grasses, apple cider and more.

Visit www.gallatinvalleybotanical.com

for more :: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM :: information. october 2021

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Fall Adventures

Montana Corn Maze Rose Brouwer’s Montana Corn Maze may have only been around since 2010, but the 160-acre farm where the annual maze takes place has a history dating back to the late 1800’s.

Homesteaded in 1897 by Lewis G. and Mary E. Young, the farm was sold to John and Jennie Bos in 1904 when the Manhattan Malting Company and the West Gallatin Irrigation Company encouraged and sponsored the Dutch to come to Montana.

John Bos built a barn, blacksmith shop, chicken coop, brooder coop and hog house, all of which remain on the homestead and are still in use today for livestock and other farm use.

2021 MAZE THEME: Headed West (to Montana) Corn Maze, Tunnel Slide, Mini-Golf and Tractor Rides!

ONLINE RESERVATIONS and TICKETS are ENCOURAGED but NOT REQUIRED Ticket Price at the Farm: Ages 4 and older -- $10 Ages 3 and under -- Free Get $1 off when you make reservations online!

Church, school and club groups get special discounts!

CLOSED SUNDAYS

Go to www.montanacornmaze.com to make reservations, see hours and our current events.

Facebook @montanacornmaze (406) 922-1643

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In 1945 Jon’s son Peter Bos and his wife, Jane, purchased the farm, which was then sold to their daughter Rose (Bos) and John Brouwer in 1982.

Rose still lives on the farm and is to thank for this Manhattanarea gem.

“There was an odd corner in the back of the field, and I thought making a corn maze out of it would be something fun to do for the community – and it might bring in a little income for our small farm,” said Rose.

What started on eight-tenths of an acre has now grown to more than five acres. Each year, corn is planted in two different directions, creating a grid. The maze is drawn and cut without the use of computers or GPS. When the corn is about six inches tall, the paths are walked out, marked and then cut using weed eaters. This step is done several times.

Finally, clues are hidden among the stalks for three different levels of challenges. The 2021 Montana Corn Maze theme is Heading West (to Montana).

Open through October 30, the maze attraction also offers a barrel train for kids, trikes for adults and older kids and wagon rides to and from the maze. Around the farm you’ll find a playground and sandboxes, corn hole, a miniature six-hole golf course, a haybale pyramid, the Wagon Depot slide, food and drink vendors, farm animals and, on Saturdays, a farmers market.

Online reservations for tickets are highly encouraged

» $9 - Ages 4 and up ($10 if purchased at the farm)

» Free - Ages 3 and under » To purchase tickets online visit www. montanacornmaze.com.

October hours of operation:

» Wednesdays /

Reservations Required 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

» Fridays /

Reservations Required 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

» Fridays /

No Reservations Required 5 to 7 p.m.

» Saturdays /

No Reservations Required 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Montana Corn Maze is located at 4605 W. Cameron Bridge Rd. in Manhattan. For more information visit the website or call 406-922-1643.

Fall Adventures

The Bozeman Maze is Back!

The Bozeman Maze, a Gallatin Valley tradition since 1998, is under new ownership this year. Ezra Cuelho and Tell Rothing are taking the reins under the guided assistance of the Mandeville Family.

“We are really excited about this. The new owners are young and energetic and want to carry on the traditions already in place,” said Dale Mandeville, who has owned and operated the Bozeman Maze with his family for 23 years. “Guests can expect a very similar experience, as Ezra and Tell plan to expand on what we have done and add some new energy.”

The creation of the maze takes more than 5,000 bales of hay and a month or longer to build with two to three people putting in around 200-man hours. Ezra and Tell have been working with the Mandevilles on the 2021 structure and will be bringing back close to 80% of the previous staff for the event month.

“Due to the drought this year, the cost of hay has tripled and was difficult to obtain.

We did find some and consider this an opportunity to support the farmers in Montana,” said Dale. “We will also make our bales available for sale after the maze.”

The Bozeman Maze will be open during the month of October. In addition to the maze itself, guests will find a PowerJump Bungee Trampoline, mini-train, hay rides, corn bins, a party tent, pumpkins, concessions and more.

Hours of operation are as follows, with Flashlight Nights on the evenings when the maze is open until 9 p.m.:

» Monday: Closed » Tuesday: Closed » Wednesday: 6-9 p.m. » Thursday: Closed (Thursday, October 21: noon to 6 p.m.)

» Friday: 6-9 p.m. (Friday,

October 22: noon to 9 p.m.)

» Saturday: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. » Sunday: noon-6 p.m.

The last group will be permitted into the maze at closing time. Hayrides and concessions close one hour later. The minitrain does not run after dark.

Cost:

» General: $13/person » Children age 5-11: $11/person » Age 4 and under free » PowerJump Bungee Trampoline: $8

Fall Feastival October 2

Join Gallatin Valley Farm to School on October 2 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Story Mill Park for the FREE Fall Feastival.

This is a family-friendly event designed to celebrate local agriculture in the Gallatin Valley.

Families can participate in games, learning and other fun activities to celebrate fall harvest and kick off Farm to School Month. This event is presented by the Gallatin Valley Farm to School, Bozeman Parks and Rec and multiple community sponsors.

(The PowerJump will not run when the temperature is below 45°F.)

The Bozeman Maze is located at 1340 E. Valley Center Rd. For more information visit www.bozemanmaze.com, e-mail info@bozemanmaze.com, or call 406388-7818.

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october 2021

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Fall Adventures

Autumn Activities in Helena WRITTEN BY BLAIR FJESETH

The debut of crunchy fallen leaves – a prelude to the holidays – signals that autumn is here and, with it, an abundance of activities for families in the Helena area.

Edgewater Farm Weekends in October

Edgewater Farm is just a short drive from Helena, in Townsend. The farm has more than 15 fall attractions you and your family can spend hours enjoying. Besides a large corn maze, they have jumbo jumpers, apple slingshots, a giant slide and a corn box. Edgewater Farm is open Fridays from 4 to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Pumpkin Patch Weekends in October

Every Saturday and Sunday in October, Johnson’s Nursery (5935 McHugh Dr.) will host its annual pumpkin patch. Not only can your children pick out their own pumpkins, but they can run through the corn maze, jump on the giant pumpkin bounce house, take a tour in the haunted greenhouse, play games and more.

Johnson’s Nursery will have baked goods from Cinnamon Ghost Bakery, fresh produce, homemade caramel apples with apples from their orchard and a coffee stand. Hours are noon to 5 p.m. Cash or check only.

Fall-Themed Story Time Saturdays in October

Join the fantastic team at Lasso the Moon Toys every Saturday in October at 11 a.m. for Story Time. Each week they will feature a different theme and memorable guitar singalongs. Add a trip to the Confectionery for their famous caramel appeals or enjoy fall-flavored ice cream at the Big Dipper to make it the perfect weekend outing.

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Last Chance Community Pow Wow October 1-3

The 22nd Last Chance Community Pow Wow is a three-day event held at the Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds. Spectators will experience Native dancing, singing, drumming, food and cultural education. All three days are free to attend.

Kids Fall Fest October 16

This year the Kids Fall Fest is slated for October 16 from 1 to 2 p.m. at Pioneer Park. As in years past, the festival will include a pumpkin patch, fall-themed games, activities, food and music. This event is sponsored

by Downtown Helena, Inc. and co-sponsored by the Business Improvement District.

Trunk or Treat October 30

What better place to Trunk or Treat than a car dealership? Kenny Simpson Nissan will host its second annual Trunk or Treat on October 30 from 4-6 p.m. The event will feature several decorated vehicles loaded with candy and treats. The lot will be closed to through traffic, so rest assured your kids can trick or treat safely on their own inside the parking lot.

Little Tykes Trick or Treat October 31

Looking for a fun Trick or Treat option for young kids that doesn’t involve going out late or driving all across town for the best candy?

Downtown Helena, Inc. and the Helena Business Improvement District have you covered.

Businesses on the walking mall will be giving out candy in abundance from 1 to 4 p.m. on October 31.

As with all events listed, please be sure to check on COVID protocols, cancellations and other emerging details before attending.

Blair Fjeseth is a working professional and proud Montana mom. You can reach her at blairparker.inc@ gmail.com. Follow her Instagram @blair_mt for more adventures.

RIDGE KIDS HAS SOMETHING FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES! Kenyon Noble’s 23rd Annual

Junior Carpenter

Pumpkin

Carving Contest October 16, 2021

Kenyon Noble’s 23rd Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest is just around the corner. The community is invited to this FREE event on Saturday, October 16 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at all Kenyon Noble locations: Belgrade, Bozeman and Livingston.

Select a free pumpkin of your choice and spend a fun-filled afternoon carving your little hearts out and trying to win some super cool prizes – you could be sporting a grin as bright as any jack-o’-lantern!

Prize categories are broken into three age groups: 0-5, 6-9 and 10-12. At 1 p.m.

Kenyon Noble’s judges will pick the top three winning pumpkins from each age group and will announce each prize soon after. Winners will need to be present to win, so if you have a little time after your done carving, grab some complimentary snacks and hydration – oh, and don’t forget to pick up your free goodie bag full of some Spooktakular Halloween swag. Our Kenyon Noble staff will be holding their own Halloween costume contest where you get to vote for the winner, so make sure you vote for your favorite get-up. You don’t want to miss this event. Feel free to join in the fun by wearing your own costumes if you would like.

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

PIR DAYS & CAMPS

PLAYZONE FUN

RIDGE PRESCHOOL

SWIMMING LESSONS

Call us at (406) 586-1737 to find out more about our great Ridge Kids programs!

4181 Fallon St., Bozeman, MT 59718 (406) 586-1737 • ridgeathletic.com

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october 2021

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Fall Adventures

GVM

Fall Festival

October 16, 2021

Gallatin Valley Mall and Best of 406 Marketplace are hosting a Fall Festival on Saturday, October 16 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the mall. The festival will include a vendor market showcasing the best of the valley’s makers and crafters. The festival will also include fun for kids of all ages with a bounce house, face painting, pumpkin decorating at Giggles: Toys & More, a photo booth, performance by 406 Cirque and more. Additional festival amenities include cotton candy, kettle corn and a GVM prize pack giveaway. Don’t miss the festivities!

THE GALLATIN VALLEY YMCA

BOO BASH Ages: All Date: Sat. October 30th Time: 1pm-4pm Location: Gallatin Valley YMCA

FREE EVENT!

Do the monster mash in your best Halloween Costume at the Gallatin Valley YMCA Boo Bash! Featured activities at this cool haunt include arts and crafts, games, costume contest, family friendly tunes, and sweet treats.

Experienced midwifery for the birth and care you desire.

CASSIE BELZER, CNM, DNP, APRN

BROOKE CADWELL, CNM, APRN

WOMEN’S SPECIALISTS

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october 2021

DAGNY HAFKER, CNM

ASHLEY JONES, CNM, APRN

Call 406-414-5150 today to schedule your appointment with one of our wonderful midwives.

Bozeman

Winter Farmers’ Market

Fall is in full swing, and with it begins the Bozeman Winter Farmers’ Market! What began more than 10 years ago as a small group of farmers selling veggies is now a large community of local farmers, ranchers, artisans, bakers and community members selling their winter produce and home-baked and homemade goods.

Bozeman Winter Farmers’ Market Dates

» October 9 (Building 3 Fairgrounds) » October 23 (Building 1 Fairgrounds) » November 13 (Building 1 Fairgrounds) » November 20 (Building 1 Fairgrounds) » December 18 (Building 1 Fairgrounds) » January 8 (Building 1 Fairgrounds) » January 22 (Building 1 Fairgrounds) » February 5 (Building 1 Fairgrounds) » February 12 (Building 1 Fairgrounds) » March 19 (Building 1 Fairgrounds) » Mach 26 (Building 1 Fairgrounds) » April 16 (Building 1 Fairgrounds) » April 30 (Building 1 Fairgrounds) » May 21 (Building 1 Fairgrounds) » May 28 (Building 1 Fairgrounds)

Fall Adventures

Boo Bash October 30, 2021

Join the Gallatin Valley YMCA from 1-4 p.m. for a Boo Bash. All ages are invited to wear their halloween costumes and join in for arts and crafts, games, a costume contest, dancing and sweet treats. This event is free.

Help Center’s Seventh Annual

Run For Your Life A fun race for a deep purpose October 24-30, 2021

It’s a crisp fall morning; you are enjoying your run or walk and then BAM…a ZOMBIE pops out! Run for Your Life has been a fun Halloween community tradition in Bozeman for the past seven years.

This Halloween-themed 5k and Kids’ Fun Run is the Help Center’s largest fundraiser, supporting their suicide prevention, intervention and community outreach efforts.

This event aims to bring awareness to suicide prevention, destigmatize seeking mental health help, remember those we have lost to suicide, promote healthy activity and fundraise for vital Help Center services.

Run for Your Life was also voted the #1 run/walk in the 2020 Bozeman Choice Poll.

Grab the whole crew on Saturday, October 30 and head over to the MSU Football Stadium parking lot for a 5k run/walk through the southside with some spooky characters along the way. The Kids’ Fun goes around the stadium and ends through the Bobcat Football Head.

Keep an eye out for fun surprises - don’t worry, no scary characters!

Got a four-legged friend who might look good in a tutu? Let them join in on the fun (on leash). Costumes are encouraged, but not required. Prizes will be awarded to race winners, as well as prizes for best costumes for both dogs and humans alike.

There will also be a virtual option to participate from ANYWHERE between October 24 and 30. Pick your own route and run, walk or ride your 5k and Kids’ Fun Run. Prizes will be awarded for virtual participants as well.

Signing up for the event isn’t the only way you can participate. The Help Center has a variety of volunteer opportunities for all ages, become a Fundraising Champion or donate directly.

Last year this event, like others, shifted to a virtual format. CDC and local guidelines will be monitored and the event may be adjusted, as necessary, if mandates change. If the Run For Your Life in-person event is cancelled it will be switched to a virtual format.

The Help Center is the local suicide, crisis and resource line, operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and has been serving Gallatin County and the surrounding 12 counties for 50 years. Since COVID-19 began in Montana, they have seen a 55% increase in the need for their services. When you need help, the Help Center is there at 406-586-3333 or 211. For more information visit www.bozemanhelpcenter.org. To register, volunteer or donate, visit www. run4yourlifemt.com.

Waldorf Festivals The Lantern Walk November 11 , 2021

In mid-November we celebrate an evening of light, wonder and inspiration. The Lantern Walk is a simple light- and song-filled evening, bringing to life for our children their role as a spark of light in the darkness – a spark of light in the world. Walking peacefully with our handmade lanterns, we sing songs that encourage us to be that warmth and light for ourselves and others.

Martinmas celebrates hope and kindness, being called to help others and fostering good in the world. Let our Lantern Walk inspire and rekindle the light that lives within and remind us to take that light, those gifts that each of us harbor and share them in the many ways that are meaningful to ourselves and those around us.

Advent Spiral November 28, 2021

The Spiral of Light is a quiet and peaceful way to commemorate the start of the holiday season. It serves as a gentle pause from the busyness and materialism that the season can sometimes bring. To set the mood, a beautiful, intricate spiral of evergreen boughs is laid out on the ground lined with stars. As families gather in a circle around it, a hush fills the space with anticipation. Each child is given an apple with an unlit candle inserted into it, a symbol of life and light in the darkest part of winter.

Children then bring their candles to the “candle of life” in the center of the spiral where a spiritual helper stands ready to assist them and light the apple candles. To complete the journey, children carefully walk outward and place the candles on stars along the spiral. This peaceful and contemplative ritual is accompanied by music, and the spirit of wonder and awe fills the space as we slowly see the one candle lighting the many, creating a galaxy of stars. Many traditions around the world celebrate the holidays in this way of lighting candles in the night, and this is our way of honoring the light that shines in all of us.

For more information with times and locations, please contact info@worldfamilyschool.org or call 406624-6588. :: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

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Fall Adventures

Falling for

Farm to

Table

WRITTEN BY LORI JO BERG

Planning local trips and beyond. Let me help craft your next experience.

Designed to save you time and money.

Pumpkin everything, warm spices, hot tea, fall walks…

The transition from summer to fall excites me the most of all the seasonal changes. I welcome the chill in the air and the much-needed sense of routine that summer seems to erase.

It’s almost like fall brings with it permission to slow down a bit and reflect inward. And after a summer of some serious self-abandonment trying to keep up with three kids, I’m more than ready.

Call or email to book today!

Christina Dear

CDear.travelnow@gmail.com

406-404-0450

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The distinct smell of fall in the air takes me to my childhood happy place. You know how a certain smell can trigger memories as if you were there? For me, that place is back in my childhood kitchen harvesting fall veggies while the smell of homemade applesauce takes over the house.

Growing up on a farm in northeast Montana, I had no shortage of massive producing apple trees right outside my front door. Picking apples and making them into applesauce, apple fruit leather or apple pie was a normal part of fall as we knew it.

From a young age, I was lucky enough to learn that a carrot or tomato from the garden is no comparison to those purchased in the store. Thirty years later, I’ve come to realize how much that “farm to table” experience has impacted me and the way I live today.

woohoo!

We've launched our fall programs!

Z check our website for information DON’T MISS THESE SPECIAL PROGRAMS: NATIONAL FOSSIL DAY Wed, Oct 13 | 10am-12pm

Join MSC educators as we celebrate our geological heritage through special, interactive activities.

SPOOKY SCIENCE Sun, Oct 31 | 11am-2pm

Join us for a spooky good time on Halloween!

Wear your costume for an extra sweet treat.

2744 W. Main St. | 406.522.9087 | montanasciencecenter.org

I do my best to create that same experience with my own kids. Our favorite fall tradition is to make a day of picking apples together and then using it to create delicious food. Each kid gets to pick a recipe they find exciting and then we get to work in the kitchen.

Not only is this a great way to spend a fall day with family, but your kids are learning where food really comes from – not to mention gaining some cooking or baking skills along the way.

Rocky Creek Farm is a fun place to go with younger children, or you could ask a neighbor what they plan to do with all those apples.

Has the Pandemic increased less than desirable behaviors?

DON’T LET YOUR WINTER BE FULL OF FEAR AND ANXIETY Shodair is Montana’s leading resource in mental health and medical genetics and has outpatient psychiatric appointment openings in the Helena, Bozeman, Butte and Missoula Clinics.

Psychiatric Appointments 406.444.1125 | Genetic Appointments 406.444.1016 Psychiatry | Therapy | Clinical Psychology | Nutrition Speech Therapy | Occupational Therapy | Group Home Addiction Counseling | School-Based Services Genetic Testing | Inpatient Residential and Acute Psychiatry Genetic Evaluation and Counseling

Here’s to all things pumpkin, changing leaves and teaching our kids that eating locally can be rewarding and fun.

Lori Jo is a Montana Native, mother of three, and freelance writer who enjoys writing about the tougher side of life and connecting with her audience on a deeper level.

Helena • Butte • Missoula ...and NOW Bozeman :: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

shodair.org october 2021

21

Fall Adventures

Date Night

ARTICLE & PHOTOS JESSICA CARTWRIGHT

Fall is my favorite time of year to travel. In my opinion, it looks beautiful everywhere, and Montana is no exception.

It’s a time to get cozy, throw on a sweater and snuggle up with your honey.

Why not take it a step further and book a romantic getaway or staycation?

Since we’re parents and this is a magazine about Montana, I’m going to share short and sweet nearby getaways you can enjoy during any stage of parenting.

Hot springs: Fun for the family, but have you tried the hot springs for

date night? They’re a fabulous way to relax and unwind while enjoying time with your sweetie. And we have so many to choose from: Bozeman Hot Springs, Norris, Yellowstone Hot Springs, Chico (you could stay for a night here, too). Hot springs make us put away our phones and relax in nature for a bit. It’s like a mini retreat without having to go very far. Plus, when we’re more relaxed in our bodies, studies have shown we like our partners more...

For a drink or meal out: Sky Shed at the Armory or Devil’s Toboggan

(speakeasy). When you have kids, you tend to go to family-friendly restaurants. It’s nice to go somewhere that feels different for a date night out – a place that allows the focus to be more on you and your partner, and some new scenery. I’ve been on dates with my husband to both of these places and they created an intimate environment that felt fun and different from our norm, and an opportunity to feel fancy and kid free!

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For a night away that is still close by:

Sacajawea Hotel. A Montana classic. Make a reservation at their excellent steakhouse and enjoy a scenic drive while getting there. It’s fun seeing some Montana history and getting just far enough out of town to make it feel like you got away. Book an overnight at the hotel, or simply go for the meal.

For a night farther away: Phillipsburg, Montana. My husband and I love going to Phillipsburg. They have great Airbnbs at affordable rates right off Main Street, an iconic candy store (so you can pick up some goodies for the kiddos… or yourself), a great brewery and it’s a hop skip away from Georgetown Lake for a romantic canoe trip or hike. And our favorite part? Sapphire mining. There is a location on Main Street where you sift through buckets, as well as an actual mine about half an hour away.

My husband and I found our sapphires for my wedding rings here, and we are going back to celebrate our fourth wedding anniversary this month. It’s a great, easy getaway that feels intimate and fun.

Improving life, work, & sport.

Orthopedic Rehabilitation Sports Medicine Post Concussion Rehabilitation Pre & Post Surgical Rehabilitation bozemanaprs.com

Everyone knows date nights are important, but they can be so hard to prioritize that you may not remember the last time you had one! So let this be your prompt to put it on the calendar and make it happen. You and your partner are worth it.

As a last note, if it proves impossible to get away, you can still have a romantic date night-in together. Dress up, put on some music, light a candle, make a meal together. Over COVID I surprised my husband with some paint-andsip nights that broke the monotony and ended up being a blast. You can buy some online that provide all the materials, or simply YouTube one and get the materials yourself.

The goal is simply to take a step away from the norm, and toward each other. No matter how you’re feeling that day, simply showing up for each other can make a world of difference.

So, find what works for you, and enjoy some fall romance!

Jessica Cartwright is a mama, birth doula and co-founder of Our Yoga, Yoga for the Whole Family. She is a certified yoga instructor who specializes in prenatal, postpartum and baby yoga. She is also a featured writer for Elephant Journal, So Much Yoga, & BOHO Daily.

Intro to Aerial Arts - Buddy Nights Private Lessons & More Kids, Teens & Adults

MountainAirDance.org :: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

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23

Bozeman Barracudas NOW ENROLLING KIDS AGES 2 TO 5

At XY Learning Center, our mission is to provide exceptional care through a safe, responsive and nurturing environment that meets the needs of each child and family.

When you hear about the Barracuda Swim Team, you might first think “fast, competitive swimming,” but the Barracudas are so much more. Serving the Gallatin Valley swimming community since 1968, they provide a welcoming atmosphere, highly accomplished coaching staff and strong organizational leadership. The best way to know what being a Barracuda is all about is straight from the kids and families themselves:

Ç Ç Ç Ç

Amazing, passionate and dedicated coaches.

Inventing new dryland games!

Learning to work hard and pay attention to details Committed, resourceful parents who are willing to help

XY Learning Center is now offering drop-in childcare for children ages 2 to 5.

Ç Ç Ç

Practicing with close friends Becoming a strong, confident swimmer Swim meets!

Ç

An inclusive environment where anyone can thrive and grow as a swimmer and as a person

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Being healthy and strong as individuals, and as an organization Sharks and Minnows!

Ç Ç Ç Ç Ç Ç

Riding bikes to get donuts after Saturday morning practice Pumpkin relays!

202 South Willson | 406.577.2554 WWW.XYLEARNINGCENTER.COM

New teammates and new friendships A tough, flexible, adapt-and-overcome mindset Being fit for other sports It feels great to swim fast!

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Six Reasons Your Family Should

Learn to Skate WRITTEN BY ANNA LAU

When you reside in a state like Montana, you may find yourself searching for activities to fill those long winter months to stave away the blues. Skiing is often the first winter sport that comes to mind, but let’s not forget about skating. In Gallatin Valley, we are fortunate to have several great outdoor skating lakes, ponds and parks in addition to an indoor facility.

What if you and your family don’t know how to ice skate?

Is it going to be another expensive hobby?

The Bozeman Amateur Hockey Association (BAHA) recognizes the importance of making ice skating affordable and accessible to the general public in a state where winter takes precedence over every other season. This fall, BAHA took over the Learn to Skate program and drastically reduced the price to a mere $75 per six-week session.

If that’s not reason enough to immediately sign up your kids (and yourself) for a session of Learn to Skate, BAHA has compiled a list of additional reasons to learn a valuable skill this winter.

1. Skating is excellent exercise.

Skating is a great form of physical activity that emphasizes coordination, balance and agility. With a central focus on lower body movement, skating helps develop strong leg muscles, making it an excellent complement to other winter sports.

2. Skating teaches one of the greatest life lessons.

The first thing you learn in a skating lesson is how to fall. Sounds counterproductive, right? Every skater, no matter how skilled and experienced, knows it’s inevitable that they are going to fall, over and over again.

We see it more often than not during the Olympics in figure skating. Professional skaters fall down... a lot. But they always get right back up and continue with their routine. No matter how many times we fall, we too must learn to get back up and keep pushing forward.

3. Skating is FUN.

Every parent wants to know that, above all else, their child is having fun on the ice.

BAHA instructors are constantly creating new ways to make learning to skate fun and engaging by using toys, games and creative incentives throughout each session. It is their number one goal to make sure everyone is all smiles before leaving the rink.

4. Skating is a lifetime sport for anyone at any age or ability.Because skating

is a low-impact activity, it can be grouped in with golf, swimming, skiing and biking as a lifetime sport. That means it’s never too late to learn – mom, dad, grandma and grandpa can join in on the lesson too. There are also many adaptive forms of ice skating for those with ranging disabilities.

5. Skating is an inexpensive winter activity the whole family can enjoy.

Additional opportunities for winter fun open up when everyone in the family knows how to skate. The Gallatin Valley has multiple maintained outdoor skating rinks, ponds and two indoor sheets of ice (located at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds) for recreational skating and pick-up hockey.

6. Skating offers a smoother transition into ice hockey.

Kids and adults who have taken skating lessons before playing hockey excel much faster, and have an easier time transitioning into hockey than those who don’t take any formal skating lessons. One shouldn’t have to worry themselves about the correct placement of his/her feet and trying to maintain proper balance while performing a simple drill such as stickhandling a puck through cones.

Want to Learn More?

Learn to Skate is offered on Sunday afternoons and Tuesday evenings for all levels ranging from first-timers to advanced skaters of all ages. To register for Learn to Skate or gain more information, visit bozemanhockey.org/ learntoskate.

Written by Anna Lau, Bozeman Amateur Hockey Association.

:: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

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FALL/Winter 2021

After-school & PIR Day Activities

submit fall/winter listings now @ www.mtparent.com/submit-your-afterschool-activity-listing $50 per listing featured in print montly and in the online activity finder through January 2022 spring listings start Jan 1, 2022

Bozeman Barracuda Swim Club

Kids Yoga (Ages 5-11) » 407 W. Main St.

» 1121 W. Main St. » coachhans@ bozemanbarracudas.org » 830-308-8593 » www.bozemanbarracudas. org » www.facebook.com/ cudaspublic » www.instagram.com/ bozemanbarracudas Founded in the late 1960’s, the Bozeman Barracuda Swim Team has provided children of the Gallatin Valley the opportunity to learn, engage and compete in swimming for more than 50 years. Whether your child has just figured out how to kick and float, wants to be more competitive in high school or is pursuing Olympic dreams, the Barracudas have a place for them. An emphasis on technique, graduated levels of instruction and training gives kids a chance to progress at their own pace. The Barracudas maintain a team of 80-160 swimmers, ages 5-22.

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Gallatin Valley YMCA PIR Day Programs » 3673 Love Ln., Bozeman » yprograms@ gallatinvalleyymca.org » 406-994-9622 » www.gallatinvalleyymca. org/ » www.facebook.com/ Gallatin.Valley.YMCA » www.instagram.com/ gv_ymca/ YMCA PIR day programs provide students with a safe and nurturing environment where they can develop healthy relationships and learn foundational skills through leadership, teamwork, individual growth and healthy lifestyles.

Each day includes activities supporting the theme of the day with an abundance of fun added in. Similar to their Summer Day Camps, they provide quality programming with trained, caring and fun staff. Campers should bring a sack lunch, swimsuit, water bottle and appropriate clothing for activity and/or weather. An afternoon snack is provided.

» ouryogafamily@ gmail.com » 406-209-9954 » www.ouryogafamily. com » www.instagram.com/ ouryogafamily/ This energetic, yet relaxing yoga class is designed especially for elementary aged-children. During class children will learn yoga poses, breathing and relaxation exercises to help them maintain a sense of calm, increase strength, improve flexibility, enhance gross and fine motor skills, and learn to focus. Kids also learn the power of affirmation and positive thinking—who doesn’t need that skill! Each class ends with a period of relaxation.

Montana Ballet Company » 2304 N. 7th Ave., Suite C-3 » info@montanaballet.org » 406-582-8702 » www.montanaballet.org/ » www.facebook.com/ montanaballetco/ » www.instagram.com/ montanaballet/ Montana Ballet Company offers fine classical ballet instruction for all ages and abilities in a fun, educational and nurturing environment.

Classes are held Monday through Friday, with performing opportunities available. MBC is a nonprofit arts and education organization in its 38th annual season. Classes are taught by a professional faculty with a focus on health and wellness and the whole dancer.

FALL/Winter 2021

Science Day Camps & After-school Programs

SEASONS AN AFTER SCHOOL GATHERING FOR GIRLS IN 6TH-8TH GRADE

to find freedom from stress by connecting with community, self, mindfulness, nature + creativity

» 2744 W. Main St. » info@ montanasciencecenter. org

Mountain Air Dance Aerial Arts School » The Emerson Center for the Arts » 111 S. Grand Ave. » cathy@ mountainairdance. org » 406-595-0909

Montana Outdoor Science School Tuesday Science and PIR Days » bgitch@ outdoorscience.org

» www. mountainairdance. org

» 406-582-0526

» www.facebook.com/ mountainairdance

» www.facebook.com/ MontanaOutdoor ScienceSchool

» www.instagram.com/ mtnairdance/ Mountain Air Dance is a nonprofit dance company founded in 2009 by Cathy Stone Werner, MFA. Their mission is to bring quality aerial arts to the Gallatin Valley and beyond through classes, workshops and performances. They strive to inspire and motivate people, help people find their inner-strength and to create more joy in life through aerial arts.

» www.outdoorscience. org

» www.instagram.com/ mt_moss/ Tuesday Science - Join MOSS for two hours on Tuesday afternoons to participate in place-based lessons, hands-on activities about natural science, and instructor-led nature hikes.

Each month-long session revolves around an exciting science topic, the perfect variety to keep kids engaged.

Great for homeschool students or families looking for an after-school program.

» 406-522-9087 » www.MontanaScience Center.org » www.facebook.com/ montanasciencecenter » www.instagram.com/ montanasciencecenter Montana Science Center hosts a variety of afterschool and PIR day camps throughout the year to add hands-on exploration in science and high-tech to the school year. Day Camps take place in the classroom, outside and in the high-tech makerspace, STEAMlab.

After-school programs include Ultimate Science in the classroom and Open Lab + Teen Tech Squad in the STEAMlab. Let’s Connect Science and Play after school at the Montana Science Center!

8 weeks to gather 8 sessions in studio 2 bonus hikes $360/person ~ snacks provided ~

September-November Led by Emma Capulong of Outside Wellness

sign up today + tell a friend! www.OURYOGAFAMILY.com

Seasons Outside Wellness » 407 W. Main St. » outsidewellness@ gmail.com » 208-921-3496 » www.wellnessliving.com » www.instagram.com/ outsidewellness Seasons is an eight-session after-school opportunity for safe, supportive and super fun intentional connections for female-identifying girls in sixth through eighth grade. In addition to two bonus hikes, they will go through each season of the year with participants: Spring/Intentions, Summer/ Adventure, Autumn/ Creativity and Winter/Rest.

In each session they will offer new skills and strategies for stress management and self-care.

STEAM education using LEGO® bricks, K’nex, and other technologies » Snapology » Held at Pilgrim Church in Bozeman and various Helena locations » steph.scott@ snapology.com » 406-438-7241 » www.helena@ snapology.com » www.facebook.com/ snapologyhelena » www.instagram.com/ snapology_of_helena/ Snapology uses LEGO® bricks, K’nex and other technologies to teach more than 1,100 hours of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics) education. Their lessons are very engaging and the kids are learning valuable STEAM concepts. They are passionate about sparking early interest in STEAM fields. Every child who has taken a Snapology class has had a blast!

PIR Days - Keep the learning up, even when school’s out! MOSS PIR Camps expose kids to a variety of science careers and engaging lessons to pique their interests!

:: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

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A WHAT'S UP?

Montana FALL FAMILY EVENTS

Please visit mtparent.com/calendars for the latest family events happening in Southwest montana!

EVENT INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO POSSIBLE COVID RESTRICTIONS. PLEASE VISIT EVENT WEBSITES BEFORE ATTENDING.

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Montana

MBC’s 38th Annual Nutcracker, The Bozeman Original With the Bozeman Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Lee Mills Saturday, December 4, 2021 at 2 & 7 p.m. | Sunday, December 5, 2021 at 2 p.m.

LAUREN BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY

Montana Ballet Company is delighted to announce a return to the stage, December 4 and 5 at the Willson Theatre for their 38th Annual Nutcracker. As with most live performing arts companies, the 37th annual season was altered due to the pandemic. MBC quickly shifted gears to share their annual holiday performance with the release of 2020’s live-streamed Nutcracker REIMAGINED and was met with generous community support – making a return to the stage in 2021 not only possible, but a reality.

Woodward will share the stage with Soren Kisiel, co-director of Broad Comedy, MBC’s own company dancers and more than 100 dancers from the community.

The one and only original, MBC’s Nutcracker was first performed in the lobby of First Security Bank in 1983. Over the years, the first weekend in December has become synonymous with the Bozeman Christmas Stroll and MBC’s Nutcracker, a cherished holiday tradition for countless performers and their families and friends, as well as the thousands of audience members who share in the experience year after year.

MBC’s production of The Nutcracker is one of the largest artistic collaborations in the region featuring the talents of master choreographers, distinguished guest artists, accomplished dancers, live musicians, seasoned stage technicians, costume and lighting designers and a host of dedicated volunteers. MBC’s Nutcracker is a treat for the entire family!

MBC is thrilled to welcome back exceptional guest artists from the world-renowned New York City Ballet, Sebastián Villarini-Vélez and Indiana Woodward, performing the celebrated roles of Snow King and Queen and Sugar Plum and her Cavalier. Villarini-Vélez and

Another highlight of this charming production is the live orchestra. Maestro Lee Mills, Associate Conductor of the Seattle Symphony and winner of the Solti Foundation U.S. Career Assistance Award in 2014, 2017, 2019 and 2020 will conduct the Bozeman Symphony playing Tchaikovsky’s beloved score.

performances, enchanting audiences with new and updated artistry of dance, choreography, music and design. MBC’s 38th Annual production of The Nutcracker promises to be dazzling! For more information please contact: Montana Ballet Company, 406.582.8702 | info@montanaballet.org.

For Nutcracker tickets, contact the Montana Ballet Company at 406.582.8702 or purchase online at www.montanaballet.org. All seating is reserved. Ticket prices range from $20 to $65.

Season after season, MBC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, produces quality

RAVEN’S EYE PRODUCTIONS

:: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

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GVLT and City of Bozeman partner to acquire and protect 12-acres on Peets Hill/Burke Park

Recently, GVLT learned that a 12-acre parcel on the southern end of Peets Hill was for sale.

The undeveloped parcel would increase the size of Peets Hill/Burke Park by 30% and include a well-established spur trail that connects Peets Hill to Kagy Boulevard and the rest of the Main Street to the Mountains Trail system.

GVLT acted swiftly to make an offer on the property within 24 hours of its listing but a strong competing offer from a developer was accepted. GVLT submitted a backup offer and, after the original buyer terminated their contract, GVLT’s offer was accepted to purchase the property.

“When opportunities like this arise, we have to be quickly reactive,” said Chet Work, Executive Director of GVLT. “If we missed this opportunity, the property would be developed and the chance to protect Peets Hill’s last piece would vanish forever. Peets Hill is the crown jewel of Bozeman’s park and trail system. We knew we had to move at the same pace as the developers to have a chance to save this special piece of land.”

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GVLT has until January to secure the necessary funds, complete due diligence and close on the property. Over the last 30 years GVLT has partnered with the City of Bozeman to stitch together what we know as Peets Hill and Burke Park. For this opportunity, GVLT again turned to the City of Bozeman for help.

The two are currently in conversations about funding the acquisition of the property and related improvement and enhancements to the parkland. GVLT has identified two promontories on the property that could serve as established lookouts and locations for educational and interpretive experiences. They have also identified opportunities for additional trail connections and improvements to the existing trail. Once the 12 acres are purchased, GVLT would transfer them to the City of Bozeman as expanded parkland. If GVLT and the City of Bozeman cannot secure the necessary funding, the property will be listed again on the open market.

“Peets Hill was GVLT’s very first conservation project, more than 30 years ago,” Work said.

“Securing this last piece of the community’s central park would bring our mission full

circle and allow us to continue expanding and enhancing the Main Street to the Mountains Trail System. Protecting this property for public use would be a victory for all locals and visitors alike.”

City Manager Jeff Mihelich said, “Peets Hill is a community asset, and we are excited at the possibility of keeping this great resource for public use. GVLT’s work supports our strategic plan commitment to maintain and expand our interconnected system of parks, trails and open spaces. The chance to partner on this project is a terrific opportunity!”

Fundraising for this project began last month, and GVLT is interested in speaking to anyone who may be interested in making leadership level gifts to the acquisition of Peets’ last piece.

Interested individuals can contact Justin Barth, justin@gvlt.org. This is the community’s park, the heart to our arteries of trails throughout the town. There is a place for every person in this project. Stay tuned for more opportunities to engage!

Visit www.gvlt.org/peets-hill-campaign to get involved.

Shodair Children’s Hospital Opens Doors to New Mental Health Clinic for Bozeman Families Shodair Children’s Hospital (Shodair.org), Montana’s leading resource in children’s mental health, recently announced the opening of its new Bozeman mental health clinic. The outpatient clinic assists Shodair’s continued effort to create a healthy Montana and provide access to care and treatment that has historically been limited within the community.

“Every day there are more children and adolescents who are experiencing mental health symptoms following the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Craig Aasved, CEO of Shodair.

“Having designated clinics and providers in each community makes travel distance a non-issue for those looking for help. This is one of the first steps in combating this mental health crisis and meeting the needs of our children.”

Shodair has been committed to only entering communities in which they are invited.

Following continued talks with the city of Bozeman and fellow health care providers, the clinic found its home at 1610 Ellis St. The clinical team at the Bozeman clinic is made up of a full-time psychiatric nurse practitioner, therapists and psychiatrists who offer invaluable, broad-spectrum care to children, adolescents, young adults and their families who experience a variety of mental health struggles. Ben Egbers is the provider allowing the community to access holistic high-quality care. This resource also means that patients can be prescribed necessary medication at their visit without needing to see additional providers.

“During my clinical training, I witnessed firsthand the immense need for psychiatric services for kids and families in the Gallatin Valley and beyond, further compounded by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and its downstream effects,” said Egbers. “I am excited to be able to act as an additional resource for those in need in our community and across Montana and look forward to being an active member of the Shodair organization and mental health community in Montana.”

The Bozeman outpatient clinic is the third mental-health outpatient clinic that Shodair has added to its developments within the last year. The Missoula and Butte clinics opened in 2020 and have helped alleviate the shortage of resources for mental health in each community, reaching more than 700 patients in need.

Leaders of the organization have plans to open additional outpatient clinics in Great Falls and Lake counties in the near future.

Every mother is unique— so is every delivery.

While our job is to ensure you have a healthy delivery, we want to do it your way.

Let our team of experts provide you with award-winning care at our BabyFriendly® birth center.

Make an appointment today!

Call 406.222.3541 or visit LivingstonHealthCare.org

In 2020, Shodair provided care to 4,000 patients across Montana through virtual visits as well as acute and residential stays. Looking ahead, the hospital will be able to serve patients in a more therapeutic environment as they embark on an ambitious capital fundraising campaign to construct a nearly 131,000-square-foot hospital. This new facility will provide flexible space, individual patient rooms, additional classrooms and activity areas.

To schedule an appointment at Shodair’s Bozeman outpatient clinic call 406-444-1171.

:: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

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preschool events & Activities Story Mill Sprouts - Preschool Program BOZEMAN PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Mondays and Wednesdays, 9-11 a.m.

www.bozemanrecreation.activityreg.com

November 1-17: Little Einsteins

Pumpkin Stroll - Drop and Glow October 27, 6-9 p.m.

Share your spooktacular creation during the first Community Pumpkin Stroll in Story Mill Park. Carve a pumpkin in the comfort of your own home, drop it off during Bozeman Parks and Recreation Department’s office hours on Wednesday, October 27, and they will add a tea light to make it glow. Jack-o’-lanterns will be placed along the grand lawn trail between 6 and 9 p.m. for all to enjoy. Hot cider will be provided.

Witches Night at the Story Mansion October 31 The porch of the historic Story Mansion at 811 S. Willson Ave. will be transformed on Halloween Night and full of witches who will delight and not fright! A perfect stop on trickor-treating night, Sunday, October 31, this event is brought to you by the Friends of the Story Mansion. Learn more by visiting www. friendsofstory.org.

October 4-27: Harvest Party November 29-December 15: Yuletide The popular Story Mill Sprouts Preschool program is back. “Sprouts” (ages 3-5 years) will have an opportunity to discover, learn and grow in a fun environment that encourages them to be their own unique selves. Sessions are offered monthly from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Story Mill Community Center. Sprouts must be toilet trained to attend without a guardian.

winning, popular children’s authors and illustrators right here in Bozeman. For more information, call the Children’s Desk at 5822404.

CHILD CARE CONNECTIONS ANNUAL COLORING CONTEST www.cccmontana.org/letscolor2021 Late March, early April If your child LOVES to draw and color, enter them in this annual contest so we can share their artwork with the community!

Happy Feet Soccer Preschool Program Bozeman Parks and Recreation Department is partnering with Happy Feet Soccer to bring more opportunities for your preschooler to play soccer this fall. The goal of these soccer programs is for children to learn the game of soccer, have FUN, build social skills and improve self-confidence in a positive and safe environment. For more information about Happy Feet, visit www.happyfeetbozeman.com. *2-year-olds Session 3: Tuesdays, November 2-December 7 10-10:30 a.m.

Session 4: Thursdays, November 4-December 16 (no class November 25) 11-11:30 a.m. *3-5-year-olds Session 3: Tuesdays, November 2-December 7 10:45-11:30 a.m.

Session 4: Thursdays, November 4-December 16 (no class November 25) 10-10:45 a.m.

EARTH’S TREASURES www.earthstreasuresmt.com Where else can you see an authentic Triceratops brow horn, meteorite, Dinosaur poop AND bugs? For no admission fee! With staff supervision, kids can hold or feel the seldom seen. Staff is eager to share how the study of certain fossils sparked the invention of the submarine; or why the Morpho butterfly tends to be an introvert. Two quarters can buy a piece of history that lasts...forever. This shop is proud to be a resource of “where can we go find...?”

They also stock picks, mini-shovels and gold pans needed to find “treasure.”

BOZEMAN PUBLIC LIBRARY www.bozemanlibrary.org

Letters from Santa (all ages) From November 12 through December 14 the Bozeman Parks and Recreation Department will be helping Santa send his letters. Call 406582-2290 to request yours, and be prepared to share information about your child to help with the letter.

Children’s Festival of the Book November 13, 2021 The 13th annual Children’s Festival of the Book at the Bozeman Public Library will feature children’s author Chris Barton and author/illustrator Don Tate, as well as local author Janet Fox. The Children’s Festival of the Book is a free event devoted to children’s books that allows kids and families to meet and hear award-

EVENT INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO POSSIBLE COVID RESTRICTIONS. PLEASE VISIT EVENT WEBSITES BEFORE ATTENDING.

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preschool events & Activities Spooky Science October 31, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

All ages welcome – cost is included with admission Join MBC for a spooky good time on Halloween! Hands-on science experiments and related crafts will be out at the Science Station.

Wear your costume for an extra sweet treat.

Preschool Science Series

GALLATIN VALLEY YMCA

Monday and Fridays, 10 and 11 a.m.

www.gallatinvalleyymca.org Hawk’s Nest Early Learning: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Ages 0-5 Email Elcenter@gallatinvalleyymca.org for more information The Gallatin Valley YMCA has operated Hawk’s Nest since 2012, serving teen parents, the Bozeman School District and YMCA employees. After recognizing the need for child care in the valley, the YMCA (with support from BSD) has decided to open enrollment at Hawk’s Nest to provide more families in our community with licensed and safe child care.

Child Watch Mondays-Thursdays, 8 a.m.-11 a.m. and 4:306:30 p.m.

Fee: Included with admission/membership JUMPTIME Toddler Zone www.jumptimebozeman.com Jumptime’s soft, padded obstacle course gives those 5 and under their own space to test out their ninja skills. Many interactive games are offered as well.

MONTANA BALLET COMPANY www.montanaballet.org/academy/register MBC offers a beginning ballet/creative movement class for children ages 3 to 4. No previous experience is necessary. If your child is 2½, potty-trained and able to participate independently, she/he is welcome to enroll.

Fridays, 8-11 a.m.

MSC Parent Meet-Up

Saturdays, 7:30-10:45 a.m.

Second Saturday of the month, 9:30 a.m.-noon

Ages: 8 weeks-9 years

Fee: Included with admission/membership

YMCA member cost: $5/hr. or 10-hour punch card for $30 Nonmember cost: $7/hr.

As a benefit to valued members, the Gallatin Valley YMCA Child Watch program provides on-site child care during your visit to the facility. Staff is CPR/first-aid certified, and undergoes a background check and regular training to ensure the safety of children.

Mommy & Me Painting Class

Join MSC each week for shared story time, a hands-on experiment in a related STEM topic and take-home craft. Recommended for ages 2-5.

MONTANA SCIENCE CENTER www.montanasciencecenter.org

New to parenting? New to the Gallatin Valley?

Just want to meet some other parents? MSC’s Parent Meet-Up is for any and all parents who are looking for a weekend parent-and-me activity that encourages interaction and making new friends. This program will include nametags and activities so parents can get to know each other while kids play in interactive, STEMbased exhibits. Most Saturdays will also feature our STEAM Saturdays with guest presenters.

Sponsored by Dino Drop-In. Open Air STEAM

Saturday, October 9 at 10 a.m.

National Fossil Day

Registration Deadline: October 6

October 13, 10 a.m.-noon

Cost: $20 per duo (adult and child)/additional $8 per child

All ages welcome – cost is included with admission

Bring your child(ren) and enjoy some quality, family-friendly fun together doing what kids love to do best…making creative messes. Each participant will receive one canvas and the supplies they need to create their painting.

Join MSC educators to celebrate our geological heritage through special, interactive activities.

Mondays, 10 a.m.

Fee: Included with admission/membership Join MSC weekly outdoors (on the outdoor patio space with picnic tables) for a book reading, a hands-on STEM experiment and exploration in art — all based on a weekly theme. When the program has concluded, explore the exhibits in

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october 2021

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preschool events & Activities MOTION ATHLETICS www.motionathleticscheer.com *Tot Movement Get your toddler moving with this fun movement class. Basic tumbling movement, trampoline jumping, climbing through obstacle courses and much more. Each child athlete needs to be accompanied by an encouraging adult who can maneuver over bouncy, soft and uneven surfaces.

The same program is offered twice in one week to accommodate more families. Face coverings are required for everyone 5 years of age and older and strongly encouraged for children between the ages of 2 and 4.

Programs are free and for Museum of the Rockies members only. There is limited capacity for each program, and preregistration is required.

MUSIC TOGETHER

SPIRE YOUTH ACTIVITIES

Kinder Tumbling

www.musictogetherbozeman.yourvirtuoso.com

www.spireclimbingcenter.com/youth-programs

Introduction to tumbling. Basic skills including forward and backward rolls, cartwheels and handstands, along with strength and flexibility for kids ages 4-6.

Kids Music (infants to age 5)

MUSEUM OF THE ROCKIES www.museumoftherockies.org/education

In-person indoor and outdoor classes Try a class for free (ask Music Kate), take advantage of sibling discounts and make-up class options. Please visit www. musictogetherbozeman.yourvirtuoso.com/ for schedules, classes, registration and much more information.

Sensational Babies This programming is temporarily suspended due to COVID-19 programming constraints.

Please visit www.museumoftherockies.org/ youth-families/early-learning to keep up to date on the program.

Read, talk, sing and play with your baby through sensory awareness activities and explorations designed specifically for newborns to age 3½.

On the first Wednesday of every month, learn a new set of signs to enhance your baby’s cognitive, social and emotional development.

This popular museum program promotes learning language skills with physical and social development.

Tours for Tots Families with preschoolers (ages 3–5) are welcome in a limited capacity for in-person preschool programming. This series of tours examines different areas of the museum with an early education focus. Each program offers a chance to ask questions as every subject is explored with a hands-on activity, art project and related story.

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ROCKY CREEK FARM www.gallatinvalleybotanical.com/education

Saturday Morning Youth Program is for ages 3 to 5. Class includes lots of rope climbing, as well as climbing-based games and exercises. The program is progressive, and each session builds upon skills taught in previous classes. This program runs during the public-school year and is offered in six-week sessions.

Preschool Youth Program exposes kids ages 3 to 5 to rock climbing in a safe and fun fashion. The program uses tons of climbing-related fun and games to keep the kids engaged, excited and will get your preschooler off the ground and scaling the walls! All gear is included. Instructor ratio 1:3.

THRIVE GYM DAYS

Tours, field trips and farm visits, Halloween pumpkin patch, cider press and more. Visit website for more information on upcoming events.

Thursdays, 10-11 a.m.

SENTINEL RANCH ALPACAS – ALPACALAND

Thrive offers Gym Days on Thursdays at the Willson Gym. Toddlers will have plenty of space to run and play on tricycles and bouncy balls while parents can socialize.

www.sentinelranchalpacas.com Take a free ranch tour, pet the alpacas and learn more about them. You can take pictures with the alpacas and you can even feed them right out of your hand with their special grain blend.

Special events are offered throughout the year including cria (babies) born from April-October, shearing from May-June, fiber sorting AugustOctober, alpaca herd health and alpaca “runs” all year long. Visit www.sentinelranchalpacas. com to learn more and schedule a visit.

www.allthrive.org

WEEK OF THE YOUNG CHILD One week in April, 2022 www.naeyc.org/events/woyc or www.mtaeyc.org/ This week includes multiple activities for families with young kids. The 2022 schedule of events will be released in February or March of 2022 and includes discounts at local restaurants, a carnival, free activities and discounts in the community for music classes, art classes and more.

H

Yellowstone Ski Festival

west Yellowstone

November 23-27, 2021

Yellowstone National Park Closes for Wheeled Vehicle Travel November 8, 2021 The West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park is scheduled to close for wheeled vehicle travel at 8 a.m. on November 8, 2021, in preparation for the winter season. Seasonal closures are planned for the following dates:

Come to West Yellowstone for this year’s Yellowstone Ski Festival (a.k.a. Ski Week, as it’s known around these parts). West Yellowstone is THE place for Nordic skiing, whether you are a veteran racer or just beginning. This year’s Ski Week is scheduled for November 23-27, 2021.

Ski Week will kick off with a Biathlon “Try-It” Clinic on Tuesday, November 23, followed by the Biathlon Race on Wednesday. A series of clinics will be held on Thursday and Friday, and the week will culminate in a number of 5k and 10k races on Saturday.

This event annually attracts more than 3,500 skiers from across the United States and Canada, so don’t miss your chance to join in the fun.

GYM DAYS Join us for tricycles, bouncy balls, and lots of space to run around at our free Gym Days! Gym Days provides a place for parents and toddlers to socialize and actively play!

STARTING OCT 7TH THURSDAYS 10AM-11AM Willson Gym 404 W. Main Street | Bozeman

406.587.3840 | allthrive.org

» October 12, Cooke City to Chief

Joseph Scenic Byway, Beartooth Highway (US 212 to Red Lodge, MT)

» November 8, All roads close at 8 a.m. except for the road between the North Entrance and the Northeast Entrance

MAMAS OF LITTLES AND CEO'S OF FAMILIES

Conditions permitting, roads are projected to open to oversnow travel by snowmobile and snowcoach at 8 a.m. on December 15, 2021.

Yellowstone National Park Opens for Oversnow Travel

Anxious? Exhausted?

Worried? Frustrated?

December 15, 2021 is the projected opening date for snowmobile and snowcoach travel for the winter season (weather permitting). The park will be open until approximately March 15, 2022 when the roads close in preparation for spring.

Conditions permitting, the following roads are scheduled to reopen to oversnow travel at 8 a.m. on December 1:

Time to remember why you are a mama and that you are enough.

Now offering customized flower essences and meditation to thrive, not just survive.

West Entrance to Old Faithful, Mammoth to Old Faithful, Canyon to Norris, Canyon to Lake, Old Faithful to West Thumb, South Entrance to Lake, Lake to Lake Butte Overlook, East Entrance to Lake Butte Overlook (Sylvan Pass) Guided Winter Tours and Snowmobile Rentals are available daily through Yellowstone Vacation Tours and Two Top Snowmobile in West Yellowstone, MT. Snowcoach Tours leaving from Gardiner, MT are available as well.

Special $100 sessions for Montana Parent readers The Sacred Center | 611 N Wallace Ave 400 hour certified yoga instructor & flower essence practitioner 406 599 6663 qurbandevikaur@gmail.com

EVENT INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO POSSIBLE COVID RESTRICTIONS. PLEASE VISIT EVENT WEBSITES BEFORE ATTENDING. :: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

october 2021

35

family Life

on the Ranch

Most Appreciated

Grandmothers Play an Essential Role on the Ranch WRITTEN BY REBECCA COLNAR PHOTOS BY DESCHEEMAEKER

This column features Montana Farm Bureau farm moms, occasionally farm dads and, in this issue, a ranch grandmother.

Kris Descheemaeker is a ranch grandmother (and Montana Farm Bureau District 3 Director). She and her family raise cattle, winter wheat, hay and grandkids on their ranch east of Lewistown. Kris and her husband, Dennis, have two sons who live on the ranch, a daughter in Fort Benton and seven grandchildren.

(406) 388-4988 mosaicrehabmt.com

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All of Kris’s grandkids love the ranch and help with age-appropriate chores. For the past two years, Layne (10) and Kalli (9) have taken bucket calves (orphan calves that need to be bottle-fed and/or fed hay and grain) to the Montana Fair. In addition, their chores include cleaning out the jugs (pens) where their animals are kept while they are working with them.

“No matter what happens at the ranch, the grandkids want to be involved,” said Kris. “When they were babies, we’d put them in a car seat in the Ranger and take them with us as we did our ranch chores. We’d often have one child strapped in the car seat and one sitting beside us.”

It’s a family tradition to have multiple generations on the ranch. “From the time our kids were little, they wanted to be part of the ranch. Dennis was like that with his dad. There is pride in what mom and dad do, and kids enjoy the opportunity to work alongside their parents.

It extends to other family members, as well. My daughters-in-law have full-time jobs and help on the ranch. They will be in the corrals working, vaccinating, pregnancy checking and branding.

We schedule our ranch work schedule around their work schedules.”

THE HELP CENTER’S

Kris says there are not enough hours in the day to be a full-time mom, have a full-time nonranch job along with a full-time ranch job.

“That’s where grandmas come in,” said Kris.

“My full-time job is fitting in on the ranch where they need me, whether it’s helping run parts when a piece of machinery breaks down, or being available to drive the grandkids 5-miles home from the bus stop. My family is respectful of my time, but I do try to keep my schedule open for them as my role as the grandkids’ caretaker.”

The proud grandma says giving her grandchildren the opportunity to experience ranch life teaches them responsibility. “My 8-year-old granddaughter, Charlotte, had to bottle feed her calf every morning before she caught her ride to the bus at 7:10. Caring for

animals is something that will always be with them. Sometimes they learn a hard life lesson.

Charlotte’s bottle calf, Tubbs, who she had shown at the fair this year, suddenly died. It was heart-wrenching for her, but those hard life lesson prepare kids to deal with disappointment later in life.”

Kris believes it takes a village to raise kids.

“Although I have my grandkids, I’m grandma to kids who aren’t blood related. My advice as a grandmother is if you’re in a position to be involved with a young family, give that mom and dad the break they need. That will make them better parents and, in turn, make for a better community.”

Rebecca Colnar is Director of Public Relations for Montana Farm Bureau and a freelance writer from Custer, Montana.

5K & KID'S RUN

IN-PERSON: OCT 30* VIRTUAL: OCT 24-30 A fun run for a deep purpose to support suicide prevention.

run4yourlifemt.com *in-person subject to change.

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Look for this post on the Montana Parent Facebook page starting October 1.

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:: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM :: WHEATMONTANA.COM • 800-535-2798 • • Montana Born & Bread

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Here from the start.

I’m here to watch you and your child grow, ensuring health and wellness through all of life’s adventures.

Dr. Kristin Day

Bozeman Health Pediatrics Call 414-4900 today to schedule a same-day appointment!

Belgrade 206 Alaska Frontage Rd BozemanHealth.org/kids 40

october 2021

Bozeman 937 Highland Boulevard, Suite 5320