Mom to Mom, NWI -- April 2015

april 2015 | volume 4 | issue 4

momtomomnwi.com | like us on facebook

nwi

april 2015 | volume 4 | issue 4 letter from the editor

5

ask the doctor

alternative treatments for infertility

fun & games

indoor spring fun

16

get out and get fit

get some fresh air

28

trina’s picks

grateful knight series

18

family health

autism awareness food allergies

6 10

mom to mom feature

moms you should know - Jessica Hernandez perspective on pets - domestic rabbits moraine ridge open house

mom to mom eats

mindy’s menu - something old, something new

community calendar

14

8 22 24 20

32

PUBLISHER/MANAGING EDITOR Stephanie Vega Edwards Stephanie@momtomomnwi.com SALES TEAM Eva Williams Nichole Odijk DeMario Ahnaliese Dunn Patricia Simms Rea Robinson CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Sandee Clark Nichole Odijk DeMario Mindy Gear Judy Miller Amber Neace Brooke Recktenwall Beth Whitaker Trina Bobrowski Rea Robinson

ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS Mom to Mom NWI LLC PO Box 1212 Valparaiso IN 46383 219-973-5138 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

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. ©2015 Mom to Mom NWI LLC

letter from the editor stephanie vega edwards

S

Spring has officially sprung, and so have the ideas and activities going on over at Mom to Mom, NWI. Now that we are in our fourth year, we are eagerly jumping at the chance to team up with a variety of organizations across the region to sponsor events and create some of our own!

In March, we were excited to sponsor the St. Patrick’s 5K Runnin with the Irish! Over 800 runners came out for this race and boy was the weather AMAZING!!! This month, we are thrilled to be involved with not one, but TWO events. We are excited to kick off the month with the annual tradition of the Valparaiso YMCA of Ringing in Spring! This year’s race is expected to be record breaking – what an honor that we get to be a part of it!

And then later in the month, April 23 to be exact, we are SO excited to bring the region the Mom to Mom, NWI Preschool Fair at Bellaboo’s Play & Discovery Center in Lake Station. This free event is perfect for both parents and children – parents have the opportunity to learn about local preschools and their kids get to not only have a night out at Bellaboo’s but have a chance to meet and take photos with Elsa, Cinderella and Captain America!! Be sure to check out the ad in this issue for all the details - we can’t wait to see you there!!

Want to know where else we can’t wait to see you? At our first ever Ladies Night Out! The Mom to Mom, NWI’s Sip and Shop will take place at Anderson’s Winery in Valparaiso on Sunday, May 31 from 4:00pm-7:00pm. Come out and sample a variety of wines while you shop the goods of more than 25 local vendors. We will have on hand everything from fashion and accessories to health and wellness products – we will even have party and trip planners!

Those attending this private event will have the chance to participate in a variety a raffles donated by our generous vendors!

AND those who pre-register for the event will be entered into an exclusive giveaway. Pre-registrations may be sent to Stephanie@ momtomomnwi.com. Please include full name of all guests. You MUST be present to win!

The Sip and Shop will benefit local women’s shelters from throughout Northwest Indiana. We are asking those who attend to either donate an item of need for the shelter or a monetary donation of their choosing. Be sure to pick up next month’s issue for more details on this event!

Take Care,

Stephanie

mtm: family health nichole odijk demario

autism awareness

ONE LOCAL FAMILY’S JOURNEY TO AN AUTISM DIAGNOSIS AND THEIR LOOK TO THE FUTURE

F

From the time Joy Azad’s youngest son and fourth child

“It was heartbreaking, but at the same time a relief to fi-

was an infant, her instincts told her something wasn’t quite

nally have some answers,” Azad of Portage, Ind. says.

right. Jacob was continuously fussy, never seemed happy,

“There were so many things I didn’t understand about my

had limited food preferences, avoided eye contact among

child up until that point when it all came together.”

other symptoms.

Azad emphasizes that each family’s autism diagnosis and

By elementary school, Azad says Jacob’s behavior be-

subsequent journey is unique. For Jacob, now 16, they

came a central issue. He was easily agitated, which would

opted to mainstream him in public school and not medi-

often lead to major meltdowns requiring Azad to have to

cate. Now that her son is in high school they are working

physically come to the school. The Azad Family turned to

through hygiene and social interaction concerns and re-

therapy for assistance and guidance. It wasn’t until Jacob

searching a vocation college or program post high school.

was 13-years-old that his family received a clear cut diag-

The local mother says she has spent countless hours reach-

nosis he had autism.

ing out to others through Facebook groups and social me-

nwi

mom to mom nwi | march 2015 | page 6

dia in order to give and receive support along with learn all she can about her son’s diagnosis. She says social media has played a significant positive role in their journey. One of her top priorities now is awareness for others.

“Children on the autism spectrum may be wired differently…they are different, not defective…they want friends, they have interests, they have emotions that may be

AUTISM SPEAKS’ AUTISM QUICK FACTS

Autism now affects 1 in 68 children and 1 in 42 boys Autism prevalence figures are growing Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disorder in the United States

shown differently. All they want is to be loved, accepted

Autism costs a family $60,000 a year on average

and included,” she says.

She encourages parents of children who are NT or neu-

Boys are nearly five times more likely than girls to have autism

rologically typical, to be a friend to any child who is dif-

There is no medical detection or cure for autism

ferent.

She says she has found in her experiences over the years many aren’t sure whether or not to seek out testing.

“Any mother, father or caregiver needs to trust their instincts. Parents are very intuitive about their own child…I want to give every single parent of a child on the spectrum a huge pat on the back. It’s difficult. It’s a roller coaster of emotions, but it’s a work of love we put into our children.

They inspire us to be better people because they don’t judge or conform,” she says.

AUTISM SPEAKS’ “RED FLAGS”

The organization recommends if your child shows any of the following, do not delay in asking your pediatrician or family doctor for an evaluation.

No big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions by six months or thereafter No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles or other facial expressions by nine months

April is Autism Awareness Month with the official kickoff

No babbling by 12 months

being April 2 or World Autism Awareness Day that first

No back-and-forth gestures such as pointing, showing, reaching or waving by 12 months

began in 2007. According to Autism Speaks, Autism is one of only three health issues recognized with its own day by the United Nations. The focus of the day is to increase world knowledge of autism and share the information of early diagnosis and intervention along with highlighting the unique talents and skills of people with autism.

The kickoff is marked by an international “Light It Up Blue”

No words by 16 months No meaningful, two-word phrases (not including imitating or repeating) by 24 months Any loss of speech, babbling or social skills at any age

campaign where thousands of landmarks, communities, businesses and homes throughout the world by shining bright blue lights in honor of the millions of individuals and families around the world affected by autism.

To learn more about autism, find local resources and more visit autismspeaks.org. - mtm

Nichole DeMario is married to her high school sweetheart and is enjoying her role as “mother” to two fur babies and godmother/surrogate aunt. Along with writing, she is focusing her career in communications and consulting, working to challenge herself in all aspects of her life.

momtomomnwi.com | like us on facebook | page 7

mtm feature nichole odijk demario

I

mom you should know Jessica Hernandez

Inspired by the Lenten season and with the added

accepts clothing, outerwear, educational toys, books,

support and direction of her church women’s group,

infant and baby essentials such as strollers, cribs,

Jessica Hernandez set out to host an event to help

bouncers along with diapers, formula, jar food, etcet-

single parents, mothers and low-income families. She

era. She takes items up until the day before the sale

drew from her own life raising her son on her own

when she sorts all of the items by gender and size.

for inspiration.

All left over items are donated to the local Salvation

“I know what it’s like to struggle, to have financial

Army.

burdens. With my family my son and I will never go

While she is currently accepting all children’s items

without, but a lot of people don’t have that support

she is especially in need of larger size children

system. Things are really rough for people. I knew

through teen clothing. She does stress anything that is

I needed to come up with something to ease their

broken, damaged and/or stained is discarded prior

stress,” Hernandez says.

to the sale.

Understanding the cost associated with providing her

“I tell my volunteers if you wouldn’t buy it to toss it. As

child with basic necessities, she decided on a mass

much as I want to help as many people as possible,

rummage sale of sorts where anyone was welcome

I don’t want to degrade them with offering things like

to purchase donated children’s items at an affordable

that,” she explains.

price. The sale, now hosted annually since 2012,

Volunteers are needed for sorting on Friday, May 1

marks items for a quarter each with 100 percent of

from 4 pm to 8 pm along with the day of the sale on

the proceeds benefiting St. Joseph’s Carmelite Home

May 2 with an option of two shifts from 7:45 am to

in East Chicago, Ind. The home takes in children and

11:30 am or 11:00 am to 3 pm.

teenage mothers of all ages.

This year’s sale will be held Saturday, May 2 from 8

Hernandez relies on donated goods to put on the

am to 2:30 pm at St. Casimir School in Hammond,

“From One Mother to Another” sale and offers items

Ind. in the school’s gymnasium located on Johnson

for infants, children of all ages through teens. She

Street.

To date, Hernandez says more than $2,000 has

FROM ONE MOTHER TO ANOTHER BENEFIT DETAILS

been raised for Carmelite and she estimates more

Gently-used children’s items for all ages sold at 25¢

than 1,000 families have benefited from the sale.

100% of proceeds benefit St. Joseph’s Carmelite Home

“It’s such a bittersweet experience,” Hernandez says, pausing to hold back tears, “It’s so sad to see a pregnant woman standing in the rain waiting to get into the sale because she didn’t have anything for her baby. It’s heartwarming to know I’ve helped though.

I couldn’t have done any of this without the continued

SALE INFORMATION Saturday, May 2 | 8 am to 2:30 pm St. Casimir School (Gymnasium) 4329 Cameron Hammond, IN (gym located on Johnson Street)

support of volunteers and so many donations. People

VOLUNTEER INFORMATION

are so giving and want to help me give back.”

For Sorting Friday, May 1 | 4 pm to 8 pm

This year Hernandez’s six-year-old son will be attending the sale for the first time as a volunteer. In the past he assisted with sorting day.

Day of Sale Saturday, May | 7:45 am to 11:30 am OR 11 am to 3 pm

She says, “I want him to know we are all the same we just have different struggles. I want him to be a good

ITEMS NEEDED:

person and share his blessings. The more you help

Larger size children’s through teens clothing

others you’ll receive even more blessings in your life.”

For information contact Hernandez at 219.484.0724 or jessicahernandez1983@yahoo.com. Event information can be found at: www.facebook.com/FromOneMotherToAnother. - mtm

ACCEPTABLE ITEMS: Gently-used clothing, outwear, educational toys, books, infant/baby essentials Donations accepted through sorting day

family health judy m. miller

nwi

food allergies: much more than an “incon

G

Growing up I was not aware of any friend that was allergic

eggs, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish. These eight food sourc-

to food. However, upon becoming a parent I quickly became

es account for 90% of food allergies. The U.S. Food and

aware of a number of children with food allergies, several so

Drug Administration (FDA) does not require labeling on trace

acute that I now routinely ask about food allergies prior to

amounts (trace contaminants) up to 200 milligrams. 200 mil-

having any child in my care.

ligrams does not sound like a lot, however it is roughly the

Food allergies in children have doubled in the past decade –

equivalent of a peanut. But a parent of a child with a severe

Foodallergy.org states that one in every 13 children under the

food allergy will tell you otherwise. 200 milligrams can throw

age of 18 has a food allergy, and among preschoolers the

a child into a severe reaction, anaphylactic shock or worse.

incidence is one in ten. More than one-third of children with

These trace amounts can kill.

food allergies are allergic to multiple foods. These numbers

Sarah, mom to a middle school aged-son who was diag-

are alarming.

nosed with a severe milk allergy when being weaned from

During a recent interview on NPR, Dr. Kari Nadeau, a scien-

breast-feeding at a year-old, lives with this knowledge. She

tist at the forefront of food allergy research, shared that it is

has had to learn how to manage her son’s food allergies. She

suspected that the reason food allergies has exploded is multi-

has done a remarkable job, effectively advocating for her son

factorial. In other words there is no single reason or simple an-

and other children who have food allergies-educating her son,

swer. She is conducting clinical trials on desensitizing children

faculty and staff, students, and parents of students about the

who have multiple food allergies. The results look promising.

basics of food allergies, and how to manage them.

The most common food allergens are tree nuts, peanuts, milk,

One-third of kids with food allergies are bullied. Sarah’s son is

mom to mom nwi | march 2015 | page 10

nvenience”

LEARN MORE: SIGNS OF ANAPHYLAXIS Anaphylaxis is a life threatening allergic reaction. It can oc-

not. Her openness has encouraged other parents of kids with

cur suddenly and escalate quickly, usually within minutes of a

food allergies to join in. Together they have educated adults

person eating. Mild symptoms can be a runny nose, a funny

and children on how critical reactions to food can be-ranging

feeling, or a sudden rash, but these can swiftly evolve to more

from itchy throats and skin reactions to stomachaches, burn-

serious issues, such as:

ing tongues and signs of anaphylaxis. They have created a

• Difficulty breathing

clear understanding of food allergy management and gar-

• Swelling, hives or swollen lips

nered strong support for kids with food allergies within the

• Hoarseness

school population. My son is a close friend of her son and is

• Constriction of the throat

hyper-vigilant and respectful about his friend’s dietary restric-

• Nausea and vomiting

tions. He is aware of what his friend cannot have, and what is

• Abdominal pain and cramping

safe. He knows this because he has been taught.

• Diarrhea

Please teach your child about the seriousness and life threat-

• Low blood pressure

ening truths about food allergies. If you do not know, ask a

• Dizziness

parent who has a child with food allergies. What is inconve-

• Fainting

nient for you--not having that food allergen in their presence

• Rapid heartbeat

or wiping your counters down before they visit your home--can

• Cardiac arrest

be life threatening to another.

momtomomnwi.com | like us on facebook | page 11

LEARN MORE: GREAT PARENT RESOURCES Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE) is a comprehensive site for becoming educated about food allergies and food allergy advocacy. FARE works on behalf of 15 million Americans with food allergies. www.foodallergy.org The Nadeau Lab in Stanford University School of Medicine’s Immunology and Allergy Division provides research findings about food allergies, as well as other areas. Dr. Karen Nadeau is exploring the role of suppressor T cells (Tregs), a subpopulation of T cells that modulate immune systems, and tolerance mechanisms of allergic disorders. http:// nadeaulab.stanford.edu.

The Nut-Free Mom http://nut-freemom.blogspot.com. Jenny Kales is mom who shares her experience of having a daughter with life threatening nut allergies. She provides a broad range of ideas for being a proactive parent, or friend, of a child with any food allergy.

ClinicalTrials.gov, a service of U.S. National Institutes of Health, lists the clinical trials in progress (active, recruiting,) or completed. The results of the trials, if available, are posted when clicking through the links. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?term=food+allergies&Search=Search The New Nut-Free Mom: A Crash Course in Caring for Your Nut-Allergic Child by Jenny Kales is available in an e-book format. The book is available for download to e-book devices through Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and via the Kindle and Nook apps for phones, tablets, Mac, PCs, etc.

MedicAlert has medical ids for all ages. They also provide services to protect people in the event of emergencies, worldwide. http://www. medicalert.org - mtm

Judy M. Miller works with pre- and adoptive parents, equipping them with new techniques and information and encouraging and empowering adoptive families through difficult times. She is a Certified Gotten Educator and the author of the internationally known parent guide, What to expect From Your Adopted Tween, and a workbook for adopted adults, Writing to Heal Adoption Grief: Making Connections & Moving Forward.

mtm: ask the doc. dr. sandee clark

there has to be a way

alternative treatments for infertility

I

Infertility is defined as a couple’s inability to become

that multiple cycles must be attempted for a possibility of

pregnant after 1 year of intercourse without using birth

success, these costs can add up very quickly.3 The extreme

contraception. However, “normal fertility” is defined as

costs associated with conventional medicine’s treatment

the ability to naturally conceive within a 2 years’ time.

for infertility is quite simply unrealistic for most couples.

Statistics report that the infertility culprit is a combination

At present, the most common form of infertility treatment is

of ovulation dysfunction, fallopian tube problems or other

IVF which is the process of fertilization by manually com-

pelvic and hormonal problems.

bining an egg and sperm in a laboratory dish and then

Ovulation problems may be caused by hormonal imbal-

transferring the embryo to the uterus As with most medical

ances, tumors or cysts, thyroid problems, excess weight

procedures, there are potential risks. Fertility medications

or eating disorders, alcohol or drug use, stress, intense

can have mild to serious side effects.

exercise that causes a significant loss of body fat or irreg-

What is The Alternative? There is an inexpensive and less

ular menstrual cycles. There are thousands of couples ev-

traumatic way to get a woman’s body working properly

ery year seeking care thru conventional medicine which

than most fertility treatments that should be explored be-

often results in pregnancy, but at what cost? There are

fore medical intervention. Chiropractic care is becoming

concerns for the safety of the treatments that medicine

a more sought out approach for women throughout preg-

has to offer. Interferences with the hormonal influences

nancy as well as while trying to conceive. Chiropractic

on the menstrual cycle directly affect a woman’s hormone

adjustments specifically affect reproductive health. The

balance whether infertility is a result of a physiological

nerves that supply the reproductive organs are located

or physical dysfunction. “The use of synthetic hormones

in the lower part of the spine. When restrictions of spinal

to both prevent and promote fertility has been shown to

movement occur they can create improper cerebrospinal

have severe and well documented toxic side effects for

fluid which may impact the hypothalamus and/or pitu-

women. About 10 million women in the USA use the pill

itary gland. These glands are responsible for reproducing

at any one time but from 3-50% stop using it within a

hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and

year because of undesirable side effects. About 120 risks

lutenizing hormone (LH) which are vital to reproductive

and side effects are associated with this combination (es-

function. The vertebral subluxation of the spine can impact

trogen and synthetic progestin) some of which are life

how the reproductive organs are functioning. Increased

threatening, including not just heart problems but cancers

function of the autonomic nervous system as a result of

of the reproductive organs, breast cancer, increased risk

chiropractic adjustments appears to benefit normalization

of diabetes, asthma, thyroid imbalance, and immune dys-

of the menstrual cycle in which regular ovulation can oc-

function.” This research shows that surgical and phar-

cur and down the line hopefully pregnancy.

maceutical treatments involve some very frightening risks

So what causes Infertility? Not just one thing, it is often

with little support for effective results.

a combination of chemical, physical and emotional stress

IVF treatments can be as much as $6000 for fertility med-

and a person’s ability to adapt to those stresses. The

ication therapy per cycle and $10,000 for assisted repro-

mental and emotional stress of the modern women’s work

ductive technologies such as IVF per cycle. Considering

and lifestyle habits plays a crucial role in fertility. It is es-

1

2

mom to mom nwi | march 2015 | page 14

sential to have a properly functioning nervous system that

Chiropractic in and of itself is not a “cure” or a treat-

perceives the environment and coordinates it’s response

ment for infertility. However, what chiropractic does is to

on the cellular level. Therefore it is reasonable to consid-

correct misalignments in the parts of the spine where the

er that a system that is properly functioning to its potential

nerves that supply the reproductive organs are located. It

may resist destructive forces more successfully and with

seems that doing so can sometimes lead to fertility. - mtm

less damage.

References: 1. Infertility. WebMD Health, 2004. http://my.webmd.com 2. Shelley, Jessica. Healthy Pregnancy In a Previously Infertile Patient Following D.N.F.T 3. Kaminski, Tammy. Female Infertility and Chiropractic Wellness Care: A case Study on the Autonomic Nervous System Response while under subluxation based chiropractic care and subsequent fertility: Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research 4. Peacock (Anderson), Elizabeth. Reduction of Vertebral Subluxation using Torque Release Technique with Changes in Fertility: Two case reports . Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research

Dr. Clark is a whole family practitioner specializing in Pediatrics, Pregnancy and Special Needs kids. A Palmer graduate, Clark offers traditional hands-on chiropractic care together with acupuncture and massage.

&

mtm: fun games amber neace

indoor fun

A

April showers bring May flowers, but they also bring a

How about where do tornados come from? I know

continued sense of boredom to my children who are so

mine have. There’s no better time than now to hit the

anxiously awaiting the chance to get outside and play.

library to grab some weather books or maybe do some

This is a great time to teach them about the weather

online research on weather.

that is forcing them to stay indoors instead of enjoying

After you have done a little reading, here are some

the warmer temps.

fun, hands on activities that children of all ages can

Have your children ever asked what makes it rain?

have fun with.

CREATE AN INDOOR TORNADO

This experiment was found at littlebinsforlittlehands.com This is an AWESOME website full of activities MATERIALS NEEDED: Tall Narrow Plastic Bottle with Lid Non-Concentrated Dish Soap Water DIRECTIONS: Add a squirt of dish soap to a full water bottle, shake it up and give it a quick roll of the wrist, you have a mini tornado. Sometimes it takes a bit to get the tornado going but you can usually get a least a small tornado each time.

MAKE YOUR OWN CLOUD Have you ever put Ivory soap in the microwave? If not it has a pretty cool effect. Two processes occur when you microwave the soap. First, you are heating the soap, which softens it. Second, you are heating the air and water trapped inside the soap, causing the water to vaporize and the air to expand. The expanding gases push on the softened soap, causing it to expand and become a foam - or in this case, a cloud.

MATERIALS NEEDED: Ivory Soap | Microwave Safe Dish | Paper Towel | Microwave DIRECTIONS: Place paper towel on top of microwave safe dish, place ivory soap on top of that and microwave for one and a half to two minutes - I like to set the timer for two minutes then just hit stop when it seems like the expansion has stopped. Allow the cloud to cool for a few minutes before touching it to avoid burns. If you are feeling adventurous allow the kids to use a medicine dropper to add water colors to the cloud then let them play with it. It will easily wash off, it is just soap after all!

MAKE IT RAIN INDOORS I found this project at www.TheHappyHousewife.com to help explain how clouds make rain. When water droplets and ice crystals continue to collect in a cloud, they get heavier and heavier. They will eventually become too heavy to float on the air. Water droplets will fall to the earth as rain. To show your little ones just how that happens, you only need a couple items which you probably have around the house.

MATERIALS NEEDED: Large Mason Jar | Shaving Cream Food Coloring | Water DIRECTIONS: Fill your mason jar almost completely to the top with water. Make a cloud of shaving cream on the top. Have your child drop food coloring on the top of the cloud. After a short amount of time the food coloring will become too heavy for the shaving cream and it will come through just like rain from a cloud.

There are so many other weather related DIY experiments

afraid to get your hands dirty. Learning is so much better

you can do with your kids. Have fun with it and don’t be

when it can be made into something that is fun to do.- mtm

mtm: trina’s picks trina bobrowski

I

grateful knight series

If you are looking for a great series to start up after these

believes her house might be haunted. Grateful has her

last dreary winter months, pick up the Grateful Knight se-

hands full with an unexplainable attraction to Rick and a

ries by Genevieve Jack. This supernatural romance is not

sexy ghost sharing her new home. There are many secrets

only captivating - it takes you on a fun and whimsical ad-

being kept from Grateful, magical secrets that will change

venture that will have you laughing out loud, holding on

her life completely.

to your seat and a little bit of blushing. Genevieve Jack’s

Will Grateful act upon the irresistible attraction she feels

down to earth, comical and sultry writing style keeps the

for Rick? How does she deal with her new supernatural

reader engaged throughout her four book series.

roommate? What are these secrets that can change life

Young Nurse Grateful Knight has moved into a new home,

as she knows it forever? To get these answers and an ad-

but with this new home strange supernatural disturbances

venture you won’t forget, read the Grateful Knight Series

start to happen. Her closest neighbor, Rick a handsome

by Genevieve Jack.- mtm

cemetery caretaker, confirms her suspicions and says he

Clark’s Family Chiropractic, LLC 6646 W. Johnson Rd La Porte, In www.clarksfamilychiropractic.com

(866) 932-9630

Traditional, Hands-on Chiropractic Care Palmer Graduate – Webster Certified

Dr. Sandee Clark Specializes in:

Pediatrics, Pregnancy (pre & post natal care) Special Needs Children and Family Care Manual & Activator instrument adjusting (low force- specific technique) Spine & Extremity adjusting Trigger Point Therapy Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Sinus Massage Orthotics ***Acupuncture and Massage Therapy now available*** Call for specific times and prices. Many packages to choose from.

Call TODAY to schedule your FREE consultation and see how we can help you!

Affordable Individual and Family Plans

mindy’s menu mindy gear

H

something old, something new

Have you ever made something you weren’t sure you

Even reheated, the eggplant did not become mush. Hope-

were going to like? I was talking with someone about

fully you will try it and have success! It was nice to try a

Atkins-friendly food, especially Italian. It put me on the

carb-friendlier version.

search for a good lasagna noodle substitute. I tried a

Since we all aren’t looking for carb-friendly foods, I also

cream cheese and egg mixture blended and baked. Once

wanted to share my favorite lemon pound cake recipe. It is

cooled, I cut it into noodle-like strips. It was good, but the

easy to do. My daughter has even taken over mixing it up.

texture wasn’t exactly what I was looking for. I decided to

Often I will put it in the food processor with a frosting and

try thinly slicing eggplant and roasting prior to putting the

use it for cake balls. It is also fantastic with a lemon glaze.

lasagna together. It worked well and had a great texture.

Mindy Gear is a mother, wife and teacher to preschool aged children. In her spare time, she enjoys exercising and loves to bake and create in the kitchen!

LEMON POUND CAKE Many recipes suggest making

INGREDIENTS

a syrup to pour over (or brush

1/2 cup butter, melted

¼ cup fresh lemon juice (approx 2 lemons)

on) the cake while it is warm.

1 cup sugar

½ tsp salt

I don’t feel like this cake needs

2 eggs, well-beaten

1 ½ cup flour

it. However, if you would like

1 tsp vanilla

1 tsp baking powder

Zest of 1 lemon (approx. 2 tsp)

½ cup plain yogurt (or milk)

to try it: mix ¼ lemon juice with ¼ cup sugar and stir until sugar is dissolved. Then pour

DIRECTIONS

or brush over cake. Do this

Combine butter and sugar. Stir in eggs, vanilla, lemon zest and lemon juice. Sift in

while the cake is warm from

salt, flour and baking powder. Stir until smooth. Add yogurt and gently stir. Bake in

over so it will absorb. Then

a preheated 325° oven for 1 hour. Cool in pan for about 10 minutes. Remove and

add the glaze as directed

pour glaze over loaf. Glaze: ½ cup powdered sugar and 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice.

LOW CARB EGGPLANT LASAGNA Lasagna is delicious and a little more exciting than plain old spaghetti. It does take extra effort to prepare, but the cheesy goodness it brings is well worth the time. I prefer to make a simple red sauce instead of a jar of store-bought. If I have fresh herbs, I will use them instead of the dried. Either way, it will be delicious. This lasagna is only two layers of eggplant instead of the usual 3 layers of pasta I normally use. Also, if I have a package of fresh mozzarella, I will add a layer of that to the top of lasagna prior to baking instead of the last layer of shredded mozzarella.

Noodles

Sauce

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

2 Large Eggplants, peeled and

1 lb. ground beef, turkey or Italian

sliced lengthwise into 1/4” noo-

sausage

dle-like strips

2 Tbsp olive oil

Olive Oil

1 small onion, chopped

Salt/Pepper

3 cloves garlic, chopped

Cheese Mixture:

2 Tbsp Italian seasoning

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

1 tsp red pepper flakes

2 cups ricotta cheese

Preheat oven to 425°. Brush egg-

1 (28 ounce) can tomato puree (to-

2 eggs

plant strips with olive oil and sprinkle

matoes should be the only ingredi-

3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

with salt and pepper. Cook 5 min-

ent, no sugar or seasonings)

½ cup parmesan, shredded

utes per side. Lower oven tempera-

½ cup water

1

ture to 375° for baking lasagna.

(10

ounce)

nwi

package

frozen

chopped spinach, thawed and wellDIRECTIONS

drained

Brown meat, onions and garlic in olive oil for 5 minutes. Add sauce, wa-

DIRECTIONS

ter and spices, simmer for 10 minutes.

Blend ricotta and eggs with spinach.

Assembling the Lasagna: Grease a 9x13 baking dish. Spread 1/3 meat sauce in the bottom of the pan. Layer ½ eggplant slices, ½ ricotta/spinach mixture, 1 cup mozzarella and 1/3 parmesan cheese. Repeat (sauce, eggplant, ricotta, mozzarella/parmesan cheese).

Spread remaining sauce and cheese on top. Cover with foil. Bake at 375° for 1 hour. Remove foil and bake additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is brown and bubbly. Let rest 10 minutes prior to slicing.

perspective on pets rea robinson

nwi

T

species spotlight: domestic rabbits

The Easter season brings with it an abundance of imagery: colorful

biting to get away from well-meaning children. Dropped rabbits can

eggs, festive baskets and fluffy bunnies. The decision to bring home a

easily suffer broken backs or broken legs. Parents in a rabbit house-

bunny at this time of year is often made impulsively. And though these

hold must teach children what behaviors are acceptable with their

tiny balls of fur can make wonderful pets, it is important, as it is with

pet for both the well-being of the child and the pet. Gentle petting,

any pet, to learn the facts and decide if a rabbit is indeed a good

feeding treats and fresh snacks, and games like tag are rewarding for

match for your family and lifestyle.

both owner and pet.

Domestic rabbits are social, inquisitive animals that with good care

The cost of a pet rabbit is relatively low, from $5 to around $40

can live 7-10 years. These intelligent animals can be trained to use a

depending on breed and pedigree, if any. But the cost of any pet ex-

litter box, come when called and many enjoy playing with their own-

tends far beyond its purchase price. Before adopting or purchasing a

ers. There is a great deal of variety in the size and appearance of

bunny, explore the cost of monthly food and treats, bedding and veter-

the over 60 different breeds of domestic rabbits. Rabbits range from

inary care. Another major consideration with rabbits is the amount of

2 pounds to 13 pounds for the larger varieties, such as the Flemish

space they require. Because their natural behaviors including running

Giant and French Lop. Many have lop ears, such as the Holland Lop,

and jumping, rabbits should be housed in a cage 4 feet wide by 2

where most varieties such as the popular Dutch, has upright ears. You

feet tall by 2 feet deep per rabbit, housed separately unless spayed

will find smooth coats and long furry coats, such as the Cashmere or

or neutered and safely acclimated to each other over time. To indulge

Lionhead.

their digging impulse, a cardboard box filled with shredded paper

Though these adorable creatures seem like a perfect, low-mainte-

makes an excellent digging box. When your pets are able to indulge

nance beginner pet for children, rabbits do require specific care and

their impulses in a safe way, their anxiety level is reduced and play

are actually physically delicate and fragile. They are affectionate an-

time becomes far more enjoyable for both rabbit and owner.

imals; however, their show of affection is not the same as what most

Rabbits can be exceptionally rewarding pets. Learn more about them

children envision. Rabbits tend to not enjoy being picked up, held or

through the American Rabbit Breeders Association at www.arba.net

carried around. Because they do not use a voice to cry out when in

or through your local humane society. - mtm

distress, they may show their disagreement by kicking, scratching or mom to mom nwi | march 2015 | page 20

feature rea robinson

nwi

moraine ridge open hou

T

The arrival of spring brings an influx of new life, seen

the Humane Society Calumet Area, bringing about the

in plants growing, birds nesting and new animal babies

opportunity to fulfill its mission with the help of a full-time

peeking out of the natural areas that surround us. The nur-

licensed wildlife rehabilitator and a strong team of volun-

turing instinct springs to life in us when we see an animal

teers.

or bird that seems to be injured or orphaned and many

The past few months have seen visitors such as a long-

times, these creatures do need our help. Despite our best

eared owl, screech owl, coyote, crow, two Cooper’s

efforts to provide for them, most people aren’t equipped

hawks, a cardinal, a blue jay and many, many more.

to handle young wildlife - that is where Moraine Ridge

Each has its own story. Each has its own special care

Wildlife Rehabilitation Center comes in.

needs, as well. Diets for each species are specifically

On its two acres of wooded, rural land in Valparaiso,

set to replicate its diet in nature. A refrigerator houses

adjacent to a state designated wildlife habitat, licensed

an assortment of vegetables and fruits; a freezer finds a

rehabilitator Stephanie Kadletz and her team admit native

supply of frozen rats and quail. There are bins of nuts,

wildlife that has been orphaned or injured. The services

mealworms, seeds, and pelleted foods. Kadletz and her

are always free. And the goal is always for the animals

volunteers prepare meals for each of their visitors daily.

to go free again.

Food and water dishes are washed, cages are cleaned,

The mission of Moraine Ridge is to rescue, rehabilitate

and injured animals are looked over. With help from

and return orphaned and injured wildlife to the wild. Its

partnering veterinarians like Southlane Veterinary Hospi-

second parallel and equally essential part of the mission

tal, animals requiring veterinary care are tended in the

is to provide educational opportunities for the community

hopes of being releasable back into the wild. The success

that promotes informed and humane interaction with na-

stories are rewarding to hear about and even more re-

tive wildlife. In 2014, MRWRC became a subsidiary of

warding to behold. “The coyote we have had been on

mom to mom nwi | march 2015 | page 24

use leads back to nature the front page of the newspaper in December 2014 when

es. Springtime, with so many young birds and mammals

she jumped off a 3 story parking garage in Gary,” said

around us, is a perfect time to learn how to discern be-

Kadletz. She suffered only a broken leg despite the great

tween needy or natural.

fall and spent about 2 months at Westchester Animal Clin-

“If you encounter wildlife that you think needs care, be-

ic before coming to Moraine Ridge. After a month of

fore you touch it, you need to find out if it is acting nat-

daily care and a diet including fresh meat, she is set for

urally,” said Kadletz. “For example, many people think

release before the printing of this article.

that if they’ve found a nest of Eastern Cottontail bunnies

Despite the daily contact, it is part of the role of rehabil-

with no mother around, that they’re orphaned. But in real-

itators and volunteers to not create a bond with the an-

ity, the normal behavior of the mother is to come to feed

imals. “As a wildlife rehabilitation facility, we follow all

the babies 2 to3 times per day for only 5 minutes at a

the rules and regulations of the Indiana DNR and US Fish

time. They’re most likely not orphaned. By one month of

and Wildlife Service regarding wildlife care,” Kadletz ex-

age, they’re the size of a softball and ready to leave their

plains. “We can’t baby talk or name or pet the animals in

mom.”

our care, nothing that would hinder their ability to live a

She offers the following tips if you find an animal you

full life in the wild. We strive to have minimal contact to

think may be in need:

ensure they remain wild.”

For birds, if you see an unfeathered baby that has fallen out of a nest and see the nest, return it to its nest. If it is

WHEN TO INTERVENE

mostly feathered, bright and alert, it is normal behavior

Though some animals, like the coyote, clearly need the

for a fledgling to take a day or two to learn to fly. You

intervention of humans, it is sometimes difficult to tell when

can watch the young bird from a distance and watch for

to intervene and when to leave nature to its own devic-

a parent to check on the fledgling. A bird that is clearly

physically injured should go to a rehabilitator.

the owl’s many adaptations. Cake will be served. Please

For mammals, likewise, an animal that is clearly physical-

view the supply wish list on the website at www.mrwild-

ly injured will require a rehabilitator. Small mammals such

liferehab.org to help provide for the influx of springtime

as squirrels, raccoons, fox, skunks and the like should still

animals needing care. Though the building is not gener-

be in their den or nest if their eyes are closed and/or their

ally open to the public to view the animals, tours may be

fur has not come in. In the case of the cottontail, their nest

possible depending on the wildlife receiving care at that

is a shallow depression in the ground covered with grass-

time.

es and fur. The babies can be covered back up in their nest for mom’s return.

OTHER WAYS TO GET INVOLVED

Whenever you are in doubt, call Moraine Ridge to help

There are many ways you can help! The center is current-

make a determination. Kadletz also recommends wearing

ly looking for local artists to donate their handmade art,

gloves any time you touch a wild animal and reminds that

such as photos, paintings, jewelry, statues or other media,

certain wild animals do have a risk of rabies.

to support wildlife care through their Silent Art Auction on May 8. To learn about how to participate in MRWRC’s

OPEN HOUSE

many upcoming events or to donate or volunteer, visit the

To celebrate the HSCA’s first anniversary of Moraine

website or follow the center on Facebook. - mtm

Ridge Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, they will be hosting an open house and supply drive on April 11 from 1pm to

ABOUT:

3pm. There will be crafts for children, including a bird-

Moraine Ridge Wildlife Rehabilitation Center

feeder project and a plant project to take home. Binocu-

570 North 450 East

lars will be provided to look for wildlife and birds in the

Valparaiso, IN 46383

surrounding woods and at their feeders. There will also

www.mrwildliferehab.org

be an owl for viewing and an opportunity to learn about

219-299-8027

mom to mom nwi | march 2015 | page 26

&

get out get fit brooke recktenwall

A

get some fresh air

After spending months indoors, because of what seemed

body has to work harder to maintain balance, working

like a never-ending winter, now is the perfect time to get

the muscles to a greater degree in the process. Be sure

outside and get some fresh air and a great workout! There

to wear supporting running shoes since you will be at a

are a variety of different outdoor workouts you can do to

higher risk for twisting your ankle while running on the

jumpstart your routine. Here are a few suggestions:

sand. It’s also important to start slower than your usual pace, to allow your body to adjust to the movement and

RUNNING STAIRS - Is there a high school football field

get comfortable on the new terrain.

by you? If so, consider doing bleacher runs. This is great way to work the glutes and quads while torching calories

HIKING - Hiking is a fantastic workout – especially if

at a rapid pace.

you’re using hiking poles! Hiking in an area that has a number of hills will help to work the quads, glutes and

ROLLERBLADING - Strap on those skates and head out

calves!

with the kids! Rollerblading is a great cardio activity to do in the warmer months. When done properly, this is anoth-

TENNIS - Tennis is a great activity that burns a ton of cal-

er exercise that will strengthen the quads and can be com-

ories – 400-600 depending on how hard you play. It’s a

parable to that of running in terms of total calorie burn.

great way to work both the upper and lower body and it keeps you moving!

UPHILL SPRINTING - This basically takes your classic interval sprints and kicks them up a notch. To perform it,

CYCLING - Going for a bike ride is a great way to see

decide upon how long you want your sprint to be, and

the outdoors, take in fresh air and burn excess calories!

then find a hill of corresponding length. If you are doing

Depending on your body weight and the intensity of your

shorter, high-intensity sprints, you want a short and steep

ride, you will probably burn between 400 and 500 calo-

hill. If you’re doing slightly longer sprints at a bit lower

ries on a one hour bicycling trip. The motion of bicycling,

intensity, then you will want a longer hill to run up.

especially uphill and high intensity cycling is a great way to develop muscle and burn fat.

BEACH RUNNING - If uphill sprinting isn’t your thing, try running at the beach. This is another great way to boost

No matter what you choose, just heading outdoors and

your calorie burn. Because you don’t have a firm surface

taking in some fresh air will do you good! Get out and

underneath your feet when running at the beach, your

enjoy the warmer temps! - mtm

mom to mom nwi | march 2015 | page 28

community calendar COMMUNITY EVENT: EASTER GLOW IN THE DARK MAZE AND EGG HUNT

LADIES TEA AND SCONES SOCIAL

Saturday, April 4 | 3, 3:30, 4 & 4:30pm

Saturday, April 11 | 1pm to 4pm

Come out for some Easter fun at Team O’Connor Martial

Ladies are invited to a tea and scone social at Countryside

Arts, located at 534 Broadway in Chesterton. Glow in the

Park and Alton Going Museum, located at 5250 US High-

dark maze and Easter egg hunt will have tons of candy

way 6 in Portage. You are encouraged to wear hats and

and prizes. Come meet the Easter bunny and get your pho-

white gloves, however, this is optional. There will be en-

to taken. Bring a candy donation or small grab bag prize

tertainment, a light lunch, a silent auction and door prizes.

and skip the line for VIP access. For more information, call

Admission is $10 - space is limited. Call (219)762-4218 to

(21)926-5534.

get your tickets in advance.

30th ANNUAL VALPARAISO UNIVERSITY JAZZ FESTIVAL

STAR PLAZA PRINCESS BRUNCH

April 6 to April 11 | Various Times

Sunday, April 12 | 9:30am to 2:30pm

Valparaiso University will hold its annual Jazz Festival from

Carving station; made-to-order omelets; breakfast pastries;

April 6 through April 11 at the Harre Union. The VU Jazz

crispy chicken tenderloins; sweets and a spectacular choc-

Festival is a weeklong event full of performances from high

olate fountain will highlight the royal meal. Cinderella and

school to professional level musicians featuring the Gram-

Belle along with Elsa, Ana and Olaf of Frozen will be mak-

my-Award winning Natalie Cole, Marcus Roberts Trio, the

ing appearances.

University’s faculty and student ensembles, and other guest artists and jazz bands. For more info, call (219)464-5007

NORTHWEST INDIANA EARTH DAY Saturday, April 18 | 9am to 4pmpm

MOTHERS & MORE OPEN HOUSE

This regional tradition connects attendees with environmen-

Wednesday, April 8 | 7:30pm to 9:30pm

tal organizations, exhibitors, businesses and vendors that

Mothers & More is a national non-profit organization whose

engage them in fun and exciting ways so guests can learn

mission is to provide programming and national community

about living greener and becoming more environmentally

for moms through all stages, phases and transitions of moth-

conscious. Come out to the Porter County Fairgrounds for

erhood. This chapter offers you the opportunity to connect

the tenth anniversary of this event, the largest Earth Day

with other moms in Porter County through a variety of ac-

event in Northwest Indiana!

tivities, such as monthly meetings, children’s outings, playgroups, Mom’s night out, book club, meals for new moms

BELLABOO’S MOTHER EARTH EDUCATION CELEBRATION

and charitable projects.

Wednesday, April 22 | 10am to 6pm

We want every mother to feel connected, noticed and wel-

It’s the little things (and people!) that can make a big differ-

come! Learn more at our open house at El Salto in Valparai-

ence! Learning simple environmental courtesies at an ear-

so, located at 3304 Calumet Avenue.

ly age can produce a long life of earth stewardship and respect for nature. Come join us for a recycled instrument

SPRING GIGANTIC INDOOR GARAGE SALE

parade, Be a Tree Yoga, Healthy Eating with Mother Earth

Saturday, April 11 | 7:30am

snack time, and a story time that teaches little learners to

Lines of early bird shoppers can’t wait to get through the

care for our world! Happy Earth Day! For more information,

doors and get their hands on the best items at the Spring

call (219)963-2070.

Gigantic Indoor Garage Sale, located at the Porter County Expo Center in Valparaiso. Early Bird admission is from

Do you have an event you’d like to add to our com-

7:30am-8:30am and costs $5. General Admission is 9am to

munity calendar? Send an email to Stephanie@momto-

4pm and costs only $2. For more info call (219)464-0133.

momnwi.com by the 15 of the month.

mom to mom nwi | march 2015 | page 32

SESAME STREET LIVE “LETS DANCE!” April 23 through April 26 Hosted by two live performers, Sesame Street Live “Let’s Dance!” offers an up-close, interactive experience that includes dance parties. Elmo uses his imagination to “Do the Robot,” Cookie teaches all ‘feets’ to dance, Abby leads a rhyming game, and Ernie shares the fun of dance with the Sesame Street favorite “Shake Your Head One Time.” Favorite friends join the audience on the floor - dancing with fans, not just for them. It’s Sesame Street Live like you’ve never experienced it before!

SPRING JEWELRY AND CRAFT SHOW Sunday, April 26 | 10am to 4pm It’s one-stop shopping at the Woodland Park in Portage. Just in time for Mother’s Day, this vendor show will feature jewelry, custom gifts, and so much more! To learn more, call (219) 762-1675.

VALPO BEER RALLY Friday, May 1 | 7pm to 10pm This brand new event was created to celebrate Valparaiso’s Hop Heroes at the Valpo Beer Rally. The event, located at the Butterfield Pavilion at Evans and Calumet will showcase Valpo’s brewers: Ironwood Brewing, Figure Eight Brewing and Four Fathers Brewing. Food will be available for purchase. Home Brewer demonstration by Brewhouse Supplies. Live music provided by Chris & Lou. Don’t miss this true Valpo experience!

FUNDRAISERS: CROWN POINT MUSIC BOOSTERS Friday, April 24 | 6pm to 12am A Noteworthy Night, benefitting the Crown Point Music Boosters will take place at the Croatian Center, located at 8550 Taft Street in Merrillville. The event will include dinner, a cash bar, silent auction and entertainment. The cost is $35 per person. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.anoteworthynight. eventbrite.com or contact Suzie at (219)689-2162.

MOTHER & MORE KIDS CLOSET SALE Saturday, April 25 | 8am Come out to the David A. Butterfield Pavilion, located on the corner of Calumet and Evans in Valparaiso for an one-of-a-kind, semi-annual, baby item sale. Fantastic items for baby, toddler, child, and mother-to-be will be on hand. From clothes to toys to high chairs, things you need for prices you love! Gently used items for sale by individual vendors. There’s a bake sale too! Admission will be $2 from 8am to 10am and $1 from 10am to 12pm.

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