Mom to Mom, NWI -- April 2016

April 2016 | Volume 5 | Issue 4

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PUBLISHER/Managing Editor Stephanie Vega Edwards Stephanie@momtomomnwi.com

letter from the editor

5

mom to mom feature

take your daughter to work 6 mom you should know: denise riordan 10 parents and sports 14 kids eat free 20 date night: gastro 49 22

mtm: family health

women’s eye health

ask the doctor

chronic illness

12 16

mtm: fun & games

diy baseball wreath

mom to mom eats

mindy’s menu - better choices

trina’s picks

the bourbon kings the day the crayons quit

24 26 30 32

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ON THE COVER Photography By: Amanda Rose Photography

Mom to Mom NWI is a monthly publication by Mom to Mom NWI LLC. All rights reserved. Production without permission is strictly prohibited. All photographs & articles submitted become the sole property of Mom to Mom NWI Magazine. ©2016 Mom to Mom NWI LLC

Sales Team Eva Williams Nichole Odijk DeMario Contributing Writers Dr. Sandee Clark Nichole Odijk DeMario Mindy Gear Judy Miller Amber Neace Trina Bobrowski Debra Krieg-Lewis Brooke Recktenwall

Advertising & Submissions Mom to Mom NWI LLC PO Box 1261 Valparaiso, IN 46384 Layout Design Mark Halliar designs.by.mark@gmail.com Cover & Table of Contents Photography Amanda Rose Photography Printing Home Mountain Printing 3602 Enterprise Ave. Valparaiso, IN 46383

V

“Vacation, all I ever wanted. Vacation, had to get away.” Those lyrics from the popular 80’s song by the GO-GO’s was running through my head as the kids walked off the bus from their last day of school and officially were on Spring Break. I knew this year was going to be pretty low key for us because we were just at Disney in January, but we all definitely needed to recharge and relax.

We decided to plan a Staycation for the last few days of break. We figured we’d stay out of the house all day, and use it just to sleep or hang out together, as if we were in a hotel. We would eat our meals out so no-one had to cook and we would just explore the area.

The first day of our Staycation was rainy and cold, so we decided to take a trip to the movies. My girls had been asking for a few weeks to see Zootopia so this was the perfect opportunity. The movie was hilarious and the popcorn was delicious! When we were leaving the theater it was pouring, so we decided to pick up a pizza and head back to our “hotel”. We all ventured to the basement so we could eat our lunch and play some video games together, as a family. We don’t let the kids play video games often, and we certainly don’t play them all together as a family so this was a really fun activity! We then headed out to Lake County to do a little window shopping and ended the day with a fun dinner night out at the House of Kobe. The younger girls had never been to a Teppanyaki grill type place (and the oldest couldn’t remember) so it was a blast. I loved watching the girls different expressions as the chef made a volcano with onions (and then put it out with his little fireman), and then as he tossed pieces of shrimp one by one from his spatula. Day one of the Edwards Staycation – a success.

On our second day, we headed out to St Joseph in Michigan. Even though it was another cold day, we weren’t going to let it stop us from having fun!

Our first stop was the Curios Kids’ Museum. The kids had a great time building and exploring. We then walked down to Silver Beach and looked out to Lake Michigan – what a beautiful view! We then went into the Curious Kids’ Discovery Zone where the girls played some more and we of course took lots of pictures! Before heading out for a late lunch, the girls took a ride on the Silver Beach Carousel. We ended our day in St Joe at the Buck Burger where we all stuffed our faces for the long ride home. We talked about the possibilities of family fun for the evening, but when we got back to our hotel we were all exhausted. Instead of heading back out, we opted for a relaxing night in – and it was perfect.

Spring Break 2016 was one of the most chill, relaxing weeks I’ve had in as long as I could remember – and I wouldn’t change that for anything in the world.

Take Care,

Stephanie

mtm:feature kimberly blaker

nwi

D

take our daughters to work day empowering girls for a bright future

Despite significant strides in recent years, women today earn

opposed to the idea, don’t force it. You want her to leave

twenty-five percent less than men and continue to be under-

with positive feelings about the day.

represented in the boardroom, top executive positions, and

Describe hypothetical problems or situations that might arise

the fast growing fields of technology, reveals Ms. Foundation

in your job, and ask your daughter for ideas and solutions.

for Women.

Help her write a letter and an occupational questionnaire.

Studies have found that part of the reason this inequality per-

Then have her prepare them for mailing to businesses and

sists is that when girls reach early adolescence their self-es-

professionals in occupations of interest. Be sure to include a

teem drops significantly. During this stage, they become

self-addressed stamped envelope for a response and take

more focused on their appearance and how boys will per-

them to the post office at the end of the day.

ceive them, which often reduces their willingness to compete

Give your daughter a camera, a Polaroid if possible, to take

with or in front of boys. Therefore, girls fail to develop the

photos throughout the day. Then have her compile a Take

know-how and the confidence necessary for competing later

Our Daughters to Work Day scrapbook. She can include

in the job market.

descriptions of each photo and what she learned or discov-

Another reason women are underrepresented and earn less

ered.

is that in spite of changes in recent

Visit yourfreecareertest.com where

Now, girls have the opportunity to stereotypes concerning marriage, rais- experience the work force one day ing children, and certain occupations. each year, helping them to envision Such stereotypes steer girls, often unwhat tomorrow has to offer.

your daughter can do a free online

intentionally, into traditional paths and

gov/teens/jobs/ for career informa-

generations, girls are still subject to

survey for school aged kids to discover what careers fit her personality and interests. Then she can go tokids.usa.

roles regardless of their interests and abilities.

tion designed just for young teens.

For these reasons, Take Our Daughters to Work® Day was

Help her create a career folder and design forms to track

created in 1993 by the Ms. Foundation, to help girls realize

her school classes, grades, career interests and experiences,

the importance of their abilities and to reach their full poten-

honors and awards, and other relevant information for pre-

tial. Now, girls have the opportunity to experience the work

paring for a secondary education and/or joining the work

force one day each year, helping them to envision what to-

force.

morrow has to offer.

On April 28, 2016, be a part of this nationwide event and empower your daughter for a bright and fulfilling future.

A day with our daughters On Take Our Daughters to Work Day, get your daughter off to a good start by having her dress accordingly and arriving on time. Avoid observation alone, and have some work and tasks set aside to keep her busy throughout the day.

Also, try some of the following: Have your daughter keep a journal throughout the day, describing different aspects of the occupation that she likes and dislikes and why.

Ask her to compose questions about the occupation and interview coworkers. Questions might include the pros and cons of the job, why coworkers chose the occupation, and what their day entails. However, if your daughter is shy or

Alternatives for taking daughters to work

Promote Take Our Daughters to Work Day by

Not all girls will have the opportunity to participate in Take Our

writing a letter to the editor to create awareness

Daughters to Work Day. Talk with family and friends and share

Form a committee in your community or at work to promote the

how they can volunteer to take a girl to work that otherwise

day and plan events to make it a success.

won’t have the opportunity.

Create fliers to remind parents of the upcoming day and post

If you’re unable to take your daughter to work, volunteer to assist a teacher, help with a political campaign, or other community service project in which your daughter can still have the

them on community bulletin

If you’re unable to take your daughter to work, volunteer together to assist a teacher, help with a political campaign, or other community service project in which your daughter can still have the experience.

experience.

boards in libraries, grocery stores, and banks. Also, ask companies to post them in their break rooms or on employee bulletin boards.

Ask your employer to support

Give your daughter alternative opportunities if she has interest

the event and discuss ways the company can help make the day

in a particular occupation. If you know someone in the field

a success. Assist in planning special activities for girls through-

ask if your daughter can go to work with them, or ask a nearby

out the day such as speakers, group discussions, or a luncheon.

company what it is planning for the day and how your daughter

Organize a speaking engagement in your community to share

can participate.

with parents the importance of the day, ways they can participate, and what to do when they take their daughters to work.

Other ways parents can participate and promote the day Taking daughters to work isn’t the only way parents can participate. By doing the following parents can make the most of the day for all girls and show daughters the significance of the day and the importance of their future.

mtm: feature nichole odijk demario

nwi

mom you should k

D

Denise Riordan loved scouring resale shops for the best deals

maintains her full-time, daytime position as a paralegal. “How?”

for her two children. When her local go-to shop closed, she was

she says, by constantly analyzing her priorities, remaining flexi-

inspired to open her own store improving on two areas she saw

ble and focusing on mobility. She created an easily transportable

many resale shops lacking in – quality and affordability.

work station to tag clothing at home. Along with more tradition-

In July 2012 A&H Bargain Box, affectionately named after her

al advertising, she made an effort to be very present on social

sons Austin and Hunter, opened in Dyer, Ind. The shop sells new

media via Facebook including showcasing new inventory and

and gently-used clothing, baby gear and toys.

responding quickly to inquiries.

Three years later she outgrew her Dyer location and relocated to

“I may not always be able to be physically at the store, but I’ve

a larger store with higher traffic at 304 W. Lincoln Highway in

created ways to be actively engaged with my customers and get

Schererville, Ind.

my inventory out there quickly,” Riordan says.

“Customers will see my new items are about 50 percent off the

Riordan says A&H Bargain Box provides consumers with the abil-

retail price. Clothes are as low as a quarter of the price. Truthfully,

ity to be budget and earth friendly.

my prices are better than yard sales. The biggest difference with

“I have numerous customers who solely shop with me because

shopping at a store like mine is you’ll find all the brands you love

they want to be more environmentally friendly,” she says.

under one roof,” she says.

For those who don’t want to bother with the task of hosting a

Riordan’s love of all things resale wasn’t her only driving force be-

garage or yard sale, are burnt out by being stood up by would-

hind opening up a small business. Her family played a major role

be buyers via online shops and virtual garage/yard sale groups,

in making her dream a reality. Shortly before opening her store,

Riordan recommends people give her a try when trying to sell

her mother had made the decision to retire. Riordan knew her

baby and children’s clothing.

mother would be an excellent first hire to help run the store and

She says the process is relatively simple; individuals drop off

fulfill her mother’s desire to be her own boss. That, coupled with

clothing to the store and an appointment will be made for the

the desire to have more time with her children and the support of

seller to return with 48 hours for an offer as well as to pick up

her husband, family and friends, she says, was all she needed to

items the store will not accept. Clothing must be free of stains and

put her business plan into action.

freshly laundered. Another tip – bundle outfits together.

Along with running a growing business and the familial responsi-

“You want to sell to me the way I sell to you. Clothing just thrown

bilities of caring for her now five and eight-year-old sons, Riordan

into a bag isn’t the best presentation,” she advises.

mom to mom nwi | april 2016 | page 10

know: denise riordan Riordan says, small business ownership has been a constant learning experience filled with its fair share of blood, sweat and tears, one that may not be a path to instant wealth, but worthwhile nevertheless.

“It takes a lot of time and money to get a business started. I collected clothes for six months prior to opening just to have something in my store. It’s not easy. [If you want to open your own business] make sure you have support. If you’re in it for the money, it’ll take a while before that happens,” she says.

Along with employing her mother, Riordan has been able to make this endeavor a family affair for her children who earn their allowance by helping with small age-appropriate tasks around the store. It’s also been an exercise in life lessons for her young brood.

“A&H Bargain Box shows them they can do anything and will always have support for anything they want to try. If they don’t succeed, I want them to know to stand back up and try again. If you have a dream, you have to go for it,” she says. - mtm

A&H Bargain Box | 304 W. Lincoln Hwy | Schererville, IN 219.322.3360 | Follow on facebook.com/AHBargainBox Monday, Wednesday, & Friday 11am to 5pm Tuesday & Thursday 11am to 6pm Saturday 10am to 3pm Sunday Closed

mtm: family health nichole odijk demario

nwi

B

women’s eye health

By-and-large women are their family’s caregivers, oftentimes,

social and economic factors that limit frequency, quality and

among a multitude of other responsibilities and decision-making,

availability of health care for women and overall behavioral and

calling the shots as it pertains to their family’s health care deci-

environment factors.

sions. But how often do we as women put off our own health-re-

Dr. Caterina Komyatte of LTF Eye Clinics (locations in Valparaiso,

lated appointments and screenings? What illnesses and ailments

Crown Point and Munster) has been an optometrist for twenty

are being left untreated that could lead to serious issues down

years. She says along with those factors, women are more like-

the road?

ly to have dry eye, co-morbidities that affect eye health such as

April is Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month. According to

cardiac disease, hardening of the arties and/or high cholesterol,

“See Jane See” an initiative by volunteer eye health and safety

hypertension, diabetes, vitamin deficiencies (especially Vitamin D

organization Prevent Blindness, a 2014 Harris Poll revealed nine

and B) and inflammatory diseases such as lupus, asthma, sarcoid-

percent of women surveyed knew they were at a significantly

osis and Sjogren’s syndrome.

greater rise of suffering permanent vision loss than men.

She indicates a complete eye exam can diagnose all of the above

The initiative highlights women are more likely than men to incur

and it’s non-invasive.

the following: blindness by 66 percent, age-related macular de-

“Women, more so than men, have to have their eyes examined

generation by 65 percent, glaucoma and cataract by 61, refrac-

more often because our bodies change so often. Women are

tive error by 53 percent and vision impairment by 63 percent.

more susceptible to changes in vision and eye health because

Why are women affected more than men? VisionAware, which

of our hormones. Thyroid eye disease, hepatitis, weight gain/

provides resources for those seeking independent living with vi-

loss from poor nutrition, etc. every condition affects our eyes,” Dr.

sion loss, source a variety of reasons from longer lifespan; the

Komyatte says. “It important to note that the eye is the only place

intrinsic prevalence due to changing hormones over a lifetime;

you can see blood vessels, nerves and white blood cells without

mom to mom nwi | april 2016 | page 12

cutting the patient open or pumping them with dye or using x-ray

Get regular comprehensive dilated eye exams

or nuclear imaging. Optometrists just shine a light in your eye.”

Know your family’s eye health history

With all of these predispositions against us based solely on

Eat right to protect your sight. In particular, eat plenty of dark

gender, Dr. Komyatte recommends, “As women we need to be

leafy greens such as spinach, kale, or collard greens, and fish

reminded to check ourselves on a regular basis – PAP, mammo-

that is high in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, albacore tuna,

gram, bone density, dental exam, year physical and vision and

trout, and halibut.

eye health exam.”

Maintain a healthy weight

She says vision and eye health exams are part of preventative

Wear protective eyewear when playing sports or doing activities

health care and as such are currently covered for children only by

around the home, such as painting, yard work, and home repairs

the Affordable Care Act. Be sure to confirm with your physician

Quit smoking or never start

and insurance for coverage of exams, additional tests, prescrip-

Wear sunglasses that block 99 percent-100 percent of ultraviolet

tions, etc. For those who are hesitant to visit a physician due

A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation

to financial concerns she suggests to reach out to local health

Wash your hands before taking out your contacts and cleanse

care providers along with organizations such as Lion’s Clubs and

your contact lenses properly to avoid infection

Vision USA to find out about assistance rather than ignore their

Practice workplace eye safety

health.

She details eye health is something that should be prioritized due

See Jane See adds:

to the fact that, “Blindness is always preventable. Even severe

Take nutritional supplements

vision loss can be treated with low vision.”

Expectant mothers should be aware of possible vision changes

Furthermore, she cites, a recent study reports yearly eye exams

during pregnancy

show a 155 percent return on investment in terms of prevention

Women who have diabetes or gestational diabetes should visit

and improved general health.

their eye doctor

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevents has these “simple

Use cosmetics safely - mtm

tips for healthy eyes”

mtm:feature judy m. miller

A

parental conduct unbecoming how to tame the “beast” within while your child

All four of my kids play and compete in sports. We felt participating in

Parents of young athletes invest enormous amounts of energy, time (driv-

a sport would be fun and help them learn new skills and build appreci-

ing and waiting, practices, attending local and out-of-town events), and

ation about the importance of contributing to a team. We hoped that by

resources (team uniforms; additional athletic and safety gear; coaching

being part of a team they would learn about good sportsmanship - how

expenses; club, game and tournament fees; hotel and meals expenses

to win and lose gracefully, and how to support each other, no matter

for out-of-town events). Given these investments, it is understandable

the outcome.

why some parents may feel they are entitled to act as they do during

Little did I know that I would witness parental emotions boiling over

games and matches. However, unbecoming conduct can negatively af-

again and again, like water in a kettle: anger, shouting, and swearing

fect and distract their children, leading to stress, anxiety, and burnout.

at officials, game participants, and opposing fans-primarily other par-

What can you, as a parent of a young athlete, do to keep your “beast”

ents. I would also overhear a parent threaten his six-year-old son that

within calm? Remind yourself to:

he would not get that college soccer scholarship if he did not improve.

(Seriously? I moved my chair back to the tree line where it was easier to

Check your ego

keep my opinion to myself.)

As parents, we are emotionally vested in our children’s successes and failures. Because of this, we are often guilty of overlooking what our kids are enjoying and learning. We place far too much emphasis on the performance and outcomes.

The game or match is not about you, about what you did or did not accomplish as an athlete, or dreamed what you might have been able to achieve as an athlete. In other words, don’t compete with your child or add yourself to the team. You are not participating or competing vicariously through your child; you are only watching and supporting your child and his or her teammates.

Focus

on

your

child’s

interests

and

strengths. Focus on helping your child build self-esteem. Focus on their enjoyment and learning.

g: d competes in sports Focus on the positives aspects of the game Leave the coaching up to the coach. He or she will go over what your child did well and what he or she can improve on. Coaching from the sidelines, telling your son to “mark up” or “take it down the line” during a soccer match can confuse your child (they are trying to please you and their coach) and undermine what their coach wants them to work on, individually and as a team. Your coaching can also add stress to your child and the other team members.

Trust in the process; allow the coach and kids to grow and gel as a team unless, of course, you witness any abuse.

I have watched my son’s coach improve right alongside him. He was green when he began coaching but turned into a great coach, and all the boys he coached responded in-kind.

Focus on relationships and friendships. Focus on your child’s effort.

Focus on what your child is learning and how she is developing.

Model good sportsmanship Good sports are “good sports.” Swallow your opinions and feelings, regardless of how the game or match is officiated. I have had to do this numerous times, and also, correct my kids when they have voiced theirs. Negativity begets bad attitudes and poor sportsmanship, and it spread like wildfire throughout your child’s team.

Praise the skills, coach, and players of the other team. Any disappointment and frustration you experience about the outcome will begin to fade as soon as you begin to do this.

Physically or emotionally remove yourself from being drawn into the fray of poor sportsmanship by other parents. Bring some Tootsie Pops to keep your mouth busy, distance yourself from the other team’s parents, or take breaks during the game or match.

Model what you want to see in your child, what you want her to emulate.

Check the “reality” meter How often parents have arrived calmly with their gear in tow, only to leave in a fit of rage? And how often have parents come to shown up with the intention of supporting their child only to act belligerently towards officials and the opposing team’s parents? Or leave feeling upset with themselves or their child?

Focus on the game. Remind yourself that what you’re watching is a game. Enjoy watching your child participate. Remember: when you lose it, everyone loses. - mtm

mtm: ask the doc dr. sandee clark

an experience wi

M

Making smarter, nutritional food choices from an early

Recently, a trip to a local restaurant turned into something

age is vital. My husband has been dealing with intestinal

life changing for our whole family. My husband had a

problems and a weakened immune system since he was

Chicken Caesar salad and ended up extremely sick to his

a child. Prescribed many medications and antibiotics for

stomach about two hours later with intestinal cramping, di-

stomach pains and nausea since kindergarten, he just never

arrhea and nausea to follow. The medical doctor diag-

felt right.

nosed him with mild food poisoning, prescribed him an

As an adult he suffered with colitis, abdominal cramping

antibiotic and an anti-nausea pill. He took one of each of

and bloating, acid reflux, anxiety which led into panic at-

the pills and later developed violent twitches in his legs and

tacks, dizziness, headaches, vision problems and joint pain

was falling asleep mid-sentence.

just to name a few. Anything he ate usually never sat right

We now know that the bacteria that is often found on lettuce

in his stomach and if the kids brought home any germs from

was just enough to stir up the inflammatory process in his

school he was the first to get sick. Growing up he rarely

weak intestines. Most people wouldn’t react to eating a

drank water and before we met his diet consisted of a lot of

salad like this but because of his weak gut it became a seri-

quick meals, energy drinks, coffee, lots of cheese and the

ous issue that stirred up an underlying chronic inflammatory

occasional beer. He smoked a pack of cigarettes a day

process and he needed help immediately.

and worked midnights. A very stressful life mixed in with

That is when I called a colleague of mine, a master herbol-

stresses to his body.

ogist and Doctor of Naturopathy, Dr. Karen Edwards. She

Now with a wife and family he had to change and take

performed an iridology examination which is an exam that

better care of himself. He slowly started to drink more wa-

looks at the patterns, colors and characteristics of the iris in

ter and took over the cooking at home. The 14 Tums a

each of his eyes, ultimately determining the patient’s total

day he was on for the acid reflux was replaced with Apple

health. My husband was in serious trouble. She told us

Cider Vinegar. He started getting chiropractic adjustments

he had a bacterial, viral and fungal infection in his colon

and low and behold the joint pain was slowly going away

and said based on the swelling of his abdomen and all the

- plus he felt more alert and slept a lot better. His diet now

inflammation she could see in his face and eyes his colon

consisted of home cooked meals with a lot of chicken, fish

was grossly enlarged. She also said he was highly gluten

or turkey, veggies, fruits, breads, nuts, peanut butter and

sensitive and quite possibly on his way to having celiac

even farm fresh eggs but his stomach and intestines were

disease. He needed to make some serious dietary changes

still not right.

immediately because not only was his colon not digesting mom to mom nwi | april 2016 | page 16

ith chronic illness it was not absorbing any nutrients from the food he was

begin to heal.

eating. He was becoming backed up with toxins and was

I am proud to say that today my husband is the healthiest he

literally full of poisons.

has ever been. It has been a long month but now he literally

The next month was quite an adventure for our family. All

jumps out of bed in the morning, has his cup of herbal tea,

of my husband’s food had to be blended and raw, organ-

eats his breakfast pudding and throughout the morning has

ic and vegan. He had to give up coffee because it pro-

his master cleanse, fresh juice and fresh fruit. The anxiety

duces mucous in the body and causes inflammation. His

is non-existent and panic attacks? What panic attacks?

diet consists of blended puddings made with avocados,

too have benefitted from this experience by becoming quite

bananas, dates, coconut milk and water. Lots of avoca-

the cook and have found some amazing ways to make his

dos, raw organic nuts, herbal teas with lemon juice, three

food taste delicious. I will admit, cooking like this can be

fresh squeezed juices daily, two green smoothies loaded

quite intimidating and time consuming, but the health bene-

with either chia or flax seeds, pea protein powder and five

fits outweigh any exhaustion I have felt over the last month

probiotics - plus he drinks two Master Cleanses daily which

preparing all his food.

is lemon juice, pure maple syrup and cayenne pepper. This

I urge anyone suffering from any of these symptoms to just

Master Cleanse works to attract the bad bacteria and break

give this a try. One month of dedication has turned his life

it down to eliminate it from the body. And the chia and flax

completely around. He will continue to have fresh juices

seeds get in all the nooks and crannies of the colon and

daily since that is the best way to get all the nutrients quickly

break down all the undigested rotting food that has been

infused into the blood stream and he will eat gluten free

sitting in our guts for years, sending them on their way out

since we have learned just how serious eating the wrong

the back door.

foods can affect you. We will add more solid foods to his

I will honestly tell you the first week was very difficult for

diet over the next couple of weeks very slowly and see how

all of us. From the caffeine with-drawl headaches to the

his body reacts but if there is a flare up we now know what

detoxification effects he was feeling pretty bad. When your

to do to fix it naturally. - mtm

body goes through a detox it actually can get worse in the beginning as your body gets rid of the germs, you can feel joint pain, cramping, headaches, irritability, restlessness and general flu like symptoms.

This is called a healing

crisis. The body must go through this first before it can

I

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

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3 Woodcarving Show Woodland Park 10:00am-4:00pm $4, under 17 FREE with parents

Thursda

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6

Spring History Camp Barker Mansion - Michigan City, IN 9am-11:30am

10 National Siblings Day

Wednesday

9am-11:30am

9am-11:30am

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12

13

18

19

20

9am-2p

National Pet Day

17 Friends of the Library Sale Thomas Memorial Library, Chesterton 9:00am-4:00pm Admission is FREE

24 Earth & Arbor Day Talking Tree Tour 12:00pm-3:00pm Admission is FREE

Bark for Life of LaPorte Co. Luhr County Park 10:00am-3:00pm Admission is $10/person with one dog.

Each additional dog $5

Mom to M Preschool F Bellaboo 5:30pm-7:0 Admission is

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National Pretzel Day mom to mom nwi | april 2016 | page 18

27 National Administrative Professionals Day

National Your Chil Work D

ay

Friday

Saturday 1

2

S

spring cleaning

Spring cleaning? Here’s another opportunity to give your items a second life in a new home. Take advantage of the Greater Northwest

Poetry Slam Lubeznik Center 5:00pm-8:00pm Admission is FREE

Indiana Association of REALTORS’ (GNIAR) “Recycling with Purpose”

Stargazing Kemil Beach 7:30pm Admission is FREE

event April 19 from 9 am to 12 pm and 1 pm to 4 pm at 800 E. 86th Avenue, Merrillville, Ind. GNIAR has partnered with nine organizations, all of whom will be onsite the day of the event, to collect the following items:

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Crisis Center of NWI: Towels, twin size sheets, pillow cases, sweatshirts, sweat pants, pre-teen & teen appropriate board games & group games, any variety of sports balls (gently used acceptable)

Annual Friends Native Plant Sale Indiana Dunes Visitor Center 8:00am-12:00pm Admission is Free

National Zoo Lovers Day

pm

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15 Friends of the Library Sale Thomas Memorial Library, Chesterton 4:00pm-8:00pn

Habitat for Humanity of NWI: Appliances, household furniture, office furniture, home décor, file cabinets, cabinets, flooring, lighting, windows, shower doors, doors, power tools & vehicles

Housing Opportunities: Bedding, kitchenware, pantry items & cleaning supplies

16 NWI Earth Day Celebration Porter Expo Center 9:00am-4:00pm Admission is FREE

Lion’s Clubs: Eyeglasses & hearing aids

Opportunity Enterprises: SecureShred confidential data & documentation destruction

Sojourner Truth House: Small kitchen appliances

TradeWinds: Cell phones, smart phones, computers & computer accessories, laptops, tablets, monitors, printers, servers, routers, ca-

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Mom Fair o’s 00pm s Free

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23 Green Gary Day Paul H. Douglas Center 10:00am-4:00pm Admission is FREE

National Earth Day

ble boxes, televisions, DVD/VCR players, gaming systems, stereo & audio components, miscellaneous electronics, copy machines, fax machines, telephone systems, fluorescent lamps & non-PCB ballasts & household batteries

United Way Lake Area: K-3 books

United Way Porter Co: Sample size toiletries & stuffed animals

28

Take ld to Day

29

National Arbor Day

30 18th Annual Be Kind to Animals Porter Expo Center 10:00am-4:00pm Admission is FREE

Please note: Recycling fee of $5 per TV, CRT monitor or printer; $25 per copy machine. Upon request for a “Certificate of Secure Hard Drive Destruction” a fee of $5 will be charged for all computers donated at one time.

NO hazardous household waste will be collected.

Questions?

Please contact Nichole at 219.795.3600 or nichole@gniar.com.

Kids Eat Free!

The following restaurants have a Kid’s Night – where the kids eat free or at a discounted rate!

Joe’s Crab Shack

Steak ‘n Shake

Kids eat FREE - Mondays

Kids eat FREE - Saturday & Sunday

Three kids per adult entrée

for every $9 purchased at the

Amarillo Roadhouse

Portage and Valparaiso locations

Kids eat FREE - Tuesdays

Buffalo Wild Wings

with every adult entrée purchased

Half-Price Kids Meals - Sundays & Wednesdays

Texas Corral

Crown Point, Hobart and Valparaiso location. Dine-in only.

Kids eat for 99¢ - Tuesday

Denny’s

with each paid adult meal

Kids eat FREE - Tuesdays & Saturdays

Bob Evans Kids eat FREE - Tuesdays

4pm to 10pm with an adult entrée purchased ($4 minimum purchase). Two kids per adult entrée.

4pm to 7pm with every adult meal purchased

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit

Valparaiso & Chesterton locations

Kids 12 and under eat FREE - Sunday

Chili’s

Portage & Valparaiso locations One free kids’ meal for very adult meal purchased.

Kids eat FREE on Tuesdays Merrillville & Valparaiso Two kids per adult entrée

Pizza Hut Kids eat FREE - Tuesdays with the purchase of an adult entrée 4pm to 8pm - Chesterton location only

Fazoli’s Get 2 kids’ meals for 99¢ each - Tuesdays with the purchase of one adult entrée kids 12 and under from 5pm to 8pm

Old Country Buffet Kids 11 and under eat for $1.99 - Thursdays with the purchase of an adult buffet.

Do you know of any other restaurants that offer FREE or nearly FREE meals? Email us at Stephanie@momtomomnwi.com and we will add them to our list!!

nwi

your ad here

ask about our advertising specials

p: 219.973.5138 e: stephanie@momtomomnwi.com

nwi

mtm: feature debra krieg-lewis nwi

I

date night: gastro 49

I love bar food – and that’s why I chose Gastro 49 as my next

The menu had a great selection of salads, flatbreads, dinner

“date night” destination. It is located in downtown Chesterton and

plates, kid’s meals and burgers! Choosing just one thing to order

is what I would describe as half restaurant, half bar - very casual

was tough, so we decided to each order something to share. I

with open seating!

love a good burger so from the six burger choices I decided on

We chose to sit at the bar, though plenty of tables were open for

the Classic Pub Cheeseburger with fries. Tacos are also one of my

us. We were promptly greeted by Mike, the bartender. He was

favorites so the Cheese Steak Tacos was a must!

very busy handling both areas of the restaurant but was also very

Experimenting with different beers was fun while waiting for our

attentive and helpful!

dinners to come. The bar area had many TVs to watch the games

It was definitely a beer night for us so we decided to try a flight of

on but I myself really enjoyed the 90’s music playing in the back-

four different 5 oz. drafts. There was a good variety on tap rang-

ground. Our food arrived quickly and it looked as delicious as

ing from ales, porters/stouts and fruit beer along with cocktails

expected! I tried my cheeseburger first and it did not disappoint.

and bottles on the drink menu. I like a more pale beer, so I chose

As stuffed as I was, the steak tacos were calling my name and I

the 18th St. Jade and Pokro Monkey Assassin. My husband enjoys

had to save room for one. It was as good as I thought it would be!

the darker variety so he chose Greenbush Good Bear Wins and

This is definitely my idea of a great date night! Casual atmo-

Sixpoint Hi-Res. Mike even offered to bring us some samples of

sphere, good drinks, delicious food and of course a fabulous date

other kinds to try as well!

– what more can you ask for! We would absolutely return and

We enjoyed tasting the different beers (Vanilla Porter was my fa-

try out another yummy appetizer and some different, tasty beers!

vorite) while trying out the chips and dips appetizer - yummy queso

Next time you visit downtown Chesterton I suggest giving Gastro

and a spicy salsa. The potato soup from the Soup Specials sound-

49 a try! - mtm

ed appetizing to my husband too so he couldn’t resist trying that out as well!

361 N Calumet Rd Chesterton, IN 46304

Debra is originally from the Chicago area and has been in Valparaiso for a little over two years. She is a mom and step-mom, and loves to plan activities with her family and friends. A former elementary school teacher, Debra now enjoys decorating and crafting. mom to mom nwi | april 2016 | page 22

mtm: fun & games amber neace

diy: baseball wreath

A

As a mom of two boys. it is very rare that I am found somewhere other

shape. I used new baseballs

than a baseball field, basketball court, or Cub Scout meeting. They

and I didn’t like the clean

keep me going, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world, but

look so I had my son and

there really is no place like home. When I actually have a few minutes

his friend rub dirt on them to

to catch my breath in between my boys seemingly endless activities, I

make them look used.

like to browse Pinterest and find different things to make for my home.

This time I found an adorable baseball wreath and I had to make it.

Once you have the baseball portion complete, you can

Materials Needed

start working on the home

13-14 Baseballs

plate. I used a piece of craft wood and cut it into the shape of home

They can be new or old

plate. I painted it an off white color and traced out the words I wanted

Wire hanger

in pencil before I filled them in with a paint pen. Like the baseballs, I

Needle nose pliers

wanted it to look a little dirty so I mixed a small amount of brown paint

Drill with 3/16 bit

this may be different depending on the thickness of your hanger

Craft wood cut into the shape of home plate

with water and did a wash over the home plate. When that dries, glue a long piece of twine to the back so you can tie it to the wreath.

Ribbon and Burlap Paint – Pencil – Paint Pens Heavy duty wreath hook Twine Hot glue gun and glue sticks

To finish off the wreath, cut strips of burlap and ribbon to tie in between the baseballs. This is where you can make it really personal by choosing your own kids team colors, or favorite MLB team colors.

Since my boys are both on different teams I chose to use red, white, and blue. I also added a small burlap bow at the top to cover the I suggest doing this project outside, at least the drilling of the baseballs. First you have to shape the wire hanger into a circle while making a loop at one end so that the baseballs don’t come off and you have a way to “close” the wreath when you are finished. Use the needle nose pliers to create the loop in the hanger. The idea is to drill holes straight through the middle of the baseballs so you can use the coat hanger as thread. Bend the end of the hanger when you are done so that you can hook it into the loop previously made to hold the circle

exposed hanger that would be used to hang up the wreath.

For me, crafts are my favorite way to relax and it’s so much better when you can get together with a friend to get creative. Call your girlfriends over, grab some coffee (or wine) and spend a nice day in the back yard making something beautiful. Since we love to see what our readers come up with, post pictures of your creations on our Facebook wall. Happy crafting from Mom to Mom, NWI. - mtm

mom to mom nwi | april 2016 | page 24

mindy’s menu mindy gear

nwi

S

better choices

Summer is just around the corner and soon we will all be wish-

west Indiana - it doesn’t always inspire healthy cooking. Since

ing we had taken a few more steps to get that summer body

dropping our winter weight doesn’t exactly happen overnight,

ready. I’m not pointing any fingers or making accusations,

perhaps now is the time to start cleaning up the diet. Cleaning

it’s just that winter is the perfect time to get a little lazy with

up doesn’t have to be severe, just start a little at a time and try

our workouts and food choices. Snuggling up on the couch

to find ways your whole family will like. This month’s recipes

and eating delicious comfort food is much easier than drag-

are meant to inspire us to eat better. There is a great morning

ging ourselves to the gym and eating right. Plus, factor in that

detox drink to start your day off right and a delicious mac and

sometimes the produce selection is looking a little bland in the

cheese made with quinoa for a healthier dinner option. Happy

winter since it isn’t that peak growing season here in North-

cooking! - mtm

mom to mom nwi | april 2016 | page 26

Lemon-Ginger Morning Detox Drink Drinking warm lemon water in the morning is a great way to kick-start your

Directions

day. It has many benefits including re-hydrating your body after sleep, helps

Boil 1 ½ cups water

flush your organs, aides in digestion, gives your immune system a little boost

Slice one half inch section of peeled fresh ginger

and helps clear skin. Lemon water alone does great things. Sometimes it can

Juice of half a lemon

get a bit bland, so I’ve added a bit of fresh ginger. Ginger prevents nausea;

1 tsp raw honey, optional

helps prevent the cold and flu, aides with soreness or inflammation…just to name a few. If you have never tried lemon water in the morning, perhaps start plain. Basic lemon water: one cup of water with the juice of half a lemon. Ready for a bit more?

(seasonally for allergies or for a little sweetness)

Add boiling water to a mug with lemon juice, ginger and honey. Let sit about 3 minutes and remove ginger slices. Drink while warm

Quinoa Quinoa is a great source of protein and high in fiber, truly a superfood.

Cooking quinoa is simple. However, be sure to thoroughly rinse the quinoa prior to cooking. If you do not rinse, it will have a bitter taste. The cooking ratio is 1 part quinoa, 2 parts water. Bring water to a boil and pour in quinoa. Simmer for about 15 minutes. Make extra for whatever recipe you are using, it is great leftover in salads.

Quinoa Salad This is just a quick single serving salad to use a few leftovers.

Makes a great lunch! A simply seasoned grilled chicken would also be excellent on this salad.

Ingredients ½ cup quinoa, chilled or room temp

Quinoa Mac & CHeese I realize mac and cheese might not sound like a health food and it’s not. However, there are ways to make it a bit healthier. I’ve substituted quinoa for the noodles.

½ cup chopped kale or spinach

Ingredients

Chopped fresh herbs (cilantro, dill, oregano, etc) optional

3 Tbsp butter 3 Tbsp flour

Directions Your choice of chopped vegetables: cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, peppers Toasted walnuts (chop walnuts and put in heavy pan, stir on medium high heat until fragrant-several minutes)

Optional dressing: Juice of one lemon or lime or a few tablespoons of your favorite vinegar.

1 ½ cup milk 8 ounces shredded cheese

I use mixture of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack

3 cups cooked quinoa 2 cups steamed broccoli florets Salt/pepper to taste

1-2 Tbsp olive oil. Dash of salt and pepper

Directions

Pour desired amount of dressing over salad and toss.

saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and

Grease 8” square casserole dish. In medium whisk in flour until smooth. Whisk in milk and increase heat to medium-high. Continue to whisk until thick and bubbly. Stir in cheese and continue whisking until smooth. Remove from heat.

Crockpot Steel Cut Oatmeal I enjoy eating steel cut oatmeal in the morning, but it takes a LONG time to cook. Making a large batch in the crockpot gives me breakfast for a whole week. There are a few variations to make more specific flavored oatmeal.

Ingredients 1 ½ cups steel cut oats ½ cup raw coconut 3 Tbsp coconut oil 6 cups unsweetened coconut milk almond milk, regular milk, or water too

Directions Cook on low for 8 hours. Stir for several minutes to thoroughly mix the oatmeal and thicken. Sweeten to taste (maple syrup, brown sugar, raw honey) and garnish with walnuts or pecans, optional.

Variations: Peaches and Cream: Add 3 cups chopped peaches prior to cooking Apples and Cinnamon: 3 Apples peeled and chopped and 1 tsp cinnamon or apple pie spice Seal leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 6 days.

Homemade granola Here is a little something for your sweet tooth.

It’s my absolute favorite granola recipe.

Ingredients 3 cups old fashioned oats 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut or additional cup of oats ½ tsp salt

1 tsp cinnamon

or try pumpkin pie spice, ginger, etc change it up with the seasons

1 cup raw nuts, chopped – whole if you prefer almonds, walnuts, cashews, sunflower seeds, I used a combination

¾ cup pure maple syrup or honey my family prefers the maple syrup

¼ cup coconut oil or butter 1 tsp pure almond extract 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS In a large bowl combine oats, coconut, salt, spices and nuts. In a

tional 5-7 minutes, if needed. The granola around edge of pan

separate bowl melt coconut oil. Stir in maple syrup and extracts.

should start to turn golden, but not the entire pan. Total cooking

Pour over dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. Spread over large

time should be approximately 30-35 minutes. Cool and store in

cookie sheet and bake in preheated 325° oven for 20 minutes.

an airtight container. Granola is delicious alone or sprinkle over

Stir and set timer for 5-7 minutes. Stir again and cook for addi-

yogurt. We use it as cereal and love it!

mom to mom nwi | april 2016 | page 28

mtm: trina’s picks trina bobrowski

A

Book Reviews of JR Ward’s

“The Bourbon Kings”

April promises showers for May flowers, but to me it’s still a little

is Easterly’s head gardener, and

gloomy and summer just needs to hurry up already. Whenever I start

unfortunately she broke the number

getting the winter or in this case spring time blues I like to read a

one rule for the staff at Easterly, she

nice sunny story. In this case though the only sunny thing about The

fell in love with Tulane, the son who

Bourbon Kings is the weather, the story itself is full of drama, mystery,

is in line to inherit the massive Bour-

passion, suspense - I could go on and on. J.R. Ward will transport

bon empire. Lizzie and Tulane’s

you to Charlemont, Kentucky and submerse you in the highly dramatic

love was short lived, they break up and a heart broken Tulane flees

lives of the Bradford family. The dynamic between family members

Kentucky. Two years later, Tulane returns to Easterly to find that things

and staff will give you an almost historical feel, much like the popular

aren’t as they seem. There is trouble in the air, financial and legal

show –Downton Abby.

trouble just to name a few. Easterly and all the people who live and

I guarantee you won’t be able to put this

book down.

work there will experience a new era of change that may or may not

The Bradford family has been the leading distributor of Bourbon for

destroy Easterly and the Bradford’s with it.

many generations. Due to their extreme wealth and power, life has

The Bourbon Kings is the first in a three book series, The Angels’ Share

afforded them a sprawling estate, Easterly. This massive establishment

book number two is set to release in July of this year. Being the first

has a staff that works tirelessly to maintain the family’s impeccable

book, you would think it is merely introductory but that is not true, you

façade. The Bradford’s have very strict rules on fraternizing with the

are definitely immersed hole heartedly in the Bradford family’s scan-

help; it is definitely not acceptable in any circumstance. Lizzie King

dalous and spellbinding lives. - mtm

mtm: trina’s picks trina bobrowski

T

Book Reviews of Drew Daywalts’

“The Day the Crayons Quit”

The kids only have a couple more months of school, and that means

The pictures are by Oliver

summer break will soon be upon us. So, why not read a fun filled book

Jeffers and just make the

that will have everyone coming back for more. This month I would

book spectacular. Each

like to talk about a hilarious book called The Day the Crayons Quit.

page has an actual letter

Let’s face it, trying to keep your kids and yourself interested in a story

from a crayon written in

can be pretty challenging at times. Not with this book, I was laughing

that color, and accom-

so hard with my girls; we actually read it several times in one sitting.

panied with a drawing

A little boy named Duncan is sitting in class and went looking for his

by Duncan.

box of crayons. Instead of finding the usual box a stack of letters were

ery will give you and

in its place. Each crayon addressed a letter to Duncan stating how

your child so many belly

they felt about being over worked or in Beiges case under worked.

laughs; you will both be

For example, Green has no complaints, but Orange and Yellow are

shedding happy tears by

no longer speaking to each other. All the crayons have one thing in

the end of the story. - mtm

common - they are definitely having issues with their jobs and Duncan.

The little boy wants to use his crayons and color, so he thinks up a plan that will make all the crayons and himself happy.

This imag-

mom to mom nwi | april 2016 | page 34