january 2015 | volume 4 | issue 1
3
year anniversary
momtomomnwi.com | like us on facebook
letter from the editor
5
fun & games
3
year anniversary
d.i.y. ottoman
18
mom to mom health strikes & spares update nick foundation couch talk - child centered divorce get out & get fit - food & fitness
6 10 12 22
mom to mom education winter school blues
34
mom to mom feature fit spa - new year, new you rusthead designs
16 30
mom to mom eats mindy’s menu - bacon bites
26
mom to mom editorial ask the doc what to expect when you’re expecting
PUBLISHER/Managing Editor Stephanie Vega Edwards Stephanie@momtomomnwi.com Sales Team Eva Williams Nichole Odijk DeMario Contributing Writers Dr. Sandee Clark Nichole Odijk DeMario Mindy Gear Emma Kester Judy Miller Amber Neace Brooke Recktenwall Beth Whitaker
38
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
happy anniversary
H
Happy New Year!! It’s so hard to believe that it’s 2015 – where has the time gone? This New Year is pretty special to me because my baby, Mom to Mom, NWI, is celebrating its third anniversary. Three years – wow! When I think about how far I’ve come and how far the magazine has come, it literally brings tears to my eyes. I remember when I had the idea for the magazine and I presented it to my then partner for his thoughts. The excitement he had made me feel like I wasn’t crazy and that maybe I was actually on to something. Had it not been for his enthusiasm, mentorship and financial backing, I don’t think I could have ever brought this idea I had on paper to life. He showed me the ropes on how to have a successful publication and once I was well on my way to greatness he put the reigns in my hands. For this I will be forever grateful – thank you Roly! As I look at what’s in store for the publication this year I am beside myself with excitement!! First off – the cover!! To say I’m obsessed and in love with it, would be an understatement. It’s amazing how photographer Amanda Rose is able to capture the image I envision in my head, and then designer Mark Halliar can take the photo and turn it into the most fabulous cover I’ve ever seen. I know I may be a little bias because it’s MY magazine and those are MY kids but to me it’s the definition of what the magazine is all about– family.
I love to sing the praises of my staff and my advertisers because without them I’d have no magazine to put out. But this letter from me wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t sing the praises of my readers. It’s the readers who give me the drive, confidence, and determination I need to bring the most information possible to the region. You’ll notice the cover now reads, “by moms, for moms” and I wanted to have that message on the cover because it’s the whole reason why I wanted to start the magazine. As a mom and a journalist, my number one goal was to provide other moms with all the resources and information they would need to make their lives a little bit easier. And here I sit, three years later, with that same goal in mind. I want to thank you all for taking the time to read the magazine each and every month. I want to thank my friends and family for encouraging me all these years. I want to thank my amazing staff for being themselves and having so much faith in this magazine. And I’d like to thank all of the advertisers – past, present, and future – for taking a chance on this girls’ dream. I’m the luckiest girl in the world!! xoxo Take Care,
When I first started the magazine I had a handful of businesses sign up to advertise because they liked me and the idea of the publication. Then I had my closest friends help out on the editorial side by providing articles in subject they were the experts in. NOW I have a staff of writers, a sales team, and over 30 local businesses with us!! And I have to say, when you become part of the magazine, you truly become part of our extended family.
Stephanie
momtomomnwi.com | like us on facebook | page 5
nwi
Strike s & Spare s
family health brooke recktenwall
for
Amber
strikes & spares update
S
Strikes and Spares for Amber was a one-of-a
Amber was diagnosed with Stage 3, Nasopharyngeal
kind event Mom to Mom, NWI had the plea-
Cancer this past fall. At the age of 34, and with all of
sure of putting on. More than 100 people from around the region came out to show their support for my dear friend Amber Hammond and
her struggles throughout life, this diagnosis was devastating in more ways than one. Seeing Amber’s reaction of shock and sadness made me feel downright helpless. My first instinct was to cry and be angry but I knew Am-
I can’t even begin to explain how much that
ber didn’t need to see her best friend bawling her eyes
meant to me – but I sure would like to try!
out. The truth is I was terrified that she wouldn’t make it and I couldn’t imagine my life without her. The fact is neither one of us wants to leave the other to deal with life
Here’s our story: Amber and I became friends when we were five years old. I was the new kid in the neighborhood but that didn’t stop her from inviting me to play. We instantly hit it off and from that moment I knew we would be lifelong friends. During our childhood, I watched as Amber went through countless surgeries in order to correct a facial deformity she had since birth. I always looked at her many surgeries as an inconvenience to our play/gymnastics schedule – so did Amber!! We would count down the days until she was recovered enough to go back to doing back handsprings in her mom’s living room. I never truly grasped the risks that she faced each time she went
on this earth without the support we provide each other – over three decades we’ve been witness to mistakes, messes, and blessed moments of joy. So as Amber charged into radiation and chemotherapy with guns blazing, I went about trying to find ways to make the entire process as easy as possible for her. One area that I knew stressed Amber out was finances. As primary caregiver to her three year old daughter Olivia, Amber was fearful of the fact that she would be unable to earn any income to sustain her household. That is where my campaign to “Help Amber Fight Cancer” began.
under the knife. As a grown woman I find myself in awe
And the rest, as they say, is history. The first
of her. Each surgery she faced head on and with the
fundraising efforts were directed towards start-
confidence that the result would be successful. I find it
ing a Go Fund Me page. That was a hit!! To
amazing that a little girl could have so much courage to
date we have raised nearly $7,000. Then in
face such scary scenarios. In Amber’s case I truly believe she was given a special gift of courage from God to help carry her through life.
the fall months, I put on four different wine and canvas events which were also very successful!
momtomomnwi.com | like us on facebook | page 7
Then last, but certainly not least, Mom to Mom,
shrink. She has begun to regain some of the
NWI partnered up with me to host Strikes and
senses that were starting to deteriorate be-
Spares for Amber. Strikes and Spares for Am-
cause the tumor had grown so large. The radi-
ber turned out to be a great event – nearly
ation treatments are complete and the doctors
doubling the amount that had already been
are giving her a little break before they start
raised! This event was so special because the
more chemotherapy.
people in attendance were a mixture of family,
Amber still has a long road of treatment ahead
friends, and those who had never met Amber.
of her.
Those attending had a blast bowling the night
provide her with nutrition and she is still very
away, eating some great food, enjoying live
weak. Please continue your well wishes, good
entertainment, and participating in auctions
thoughts and prayers.
and giveaways. It was a wonderful and suc-
many people out there fighting this same fight
cessful event - Stephanie and the rest of the
at this same moment. Each story I read touch-
Mom to Mom, NWI staff took this cause under
es me in a different way. On behalf of Amber
their wing and treated the event as if they too
and her family and friends I cannot even begin
had been lifelong friends with Amber. It has
to express the gratitude we feel for all of the
truly touched my heart how generous people
support and love that has been put forth. We
can be with their limited time and money.
thank you and look forward to Amber’s full re-
Now – here’s the even better news!! Amber’s
covery and remission in 2015! - mtm
She is still using a feeding tube to
lime sized tumor in her sinuses has begun to
mom to mom nwi | january 2015 | page 8
I know there are so
Thank you to everyone who came out to our event and supported Amber Hammond. We would like to thank everyone who helped make our benefit such a huge success.
Diamond Sponsors - Pyro Industrial | Smoothie King Platinum Sponsor - AmeriClean Inc. Gold Sponsors - Growing Smiles | Pediatric Dental Care Realty Executives | Thorn Heating
silent auction and raffle donors Accents by Design
Horizon Bank
Rachel Dawn Photographer
Albert’s
It works!, by Nikki Roe
Railcats
Amanda Rose Photography
Kernels and Kones
Aqua Spa Nails
Leaps and Bounce
Rodan Fields by Debra Kreig-Lewis
Arbonne
Locks of Fun
Bella Rosa Studio Ashley Well
Memorial Opera House
Bleu Lotus Yoga
Mirror Image Dance Academy
Bluebird Tattoo
Molly Bea’s
Center of Attention
Omni Health and Fitness, Chesterton
Di La Bella Salon
Salon Swank Scentsy by Amanda Cook and Kristin Waters Serenity Salon and Spa Shoreline Brewery Silcott’s Stardust Bowl
Origami Owl by Jill Ramian
Direct Buy
Pepperidge Farm
El Salto Gold Canyon by Boja Cejkov Green Housewives
Premiere Designs Jewelry Pumps Fitness
Tastefully Simple The Waxi Taxi Gift Wrapped up with Beth
food sponsors Brennan Builders | Family Express | Bam Pizza | Town and Country Cakes by Mitzi | Cake Pops by Dan | Stacy Hoefflicker
We’d also to thank Memories in Minutes, the Rebecca Anne Band, Rusthead Designs, and Stardust Bowl in Merrillville. momtomomnwi.com | like us on facebook | page 9
family health nichole odijk demario
N
nick foundation
Nearly six years ago, a local family who
The foundation is part of a national coali-
had experienced the emotional upheaval of
tion that fights for better research dollars
a child diagnosed with cancer felt there was
and support for children with cancer. Since
a great need for an overall support system
it began, the foundation has connected with
for families going through similar circum-
nearly 70 families.
stances in Northwest Indiana.
“We want families to know there is always
In 2009, the Northwest Indiana Cancer Kids
hope. We will help make this journey as
Foundation (NICK Foundation) was officially
easy as possible. We understand what
incorporated and set out to fulfill its mission,
you’re going through,” Executive Director
“providing hope and help to Northwest In-
and Co-Founder Donna Criner says.
diana families affected by childhood cancer
Criner explains today’s families are more
and supporting promising research so that
often than not a double income household.
all children with cancer can be healed.”
Unlike a situation involving an adult cancer
According to the NICK Foundation an esti-
patient, most parents are not willing to leave
mated 13,500 children are diagnosed with
their children, in many cases babies or tod-
cancer in the United States alone and is the
dlers, at a hospital for days and often weeks
number one disease killer in children. In one
at a time. Treatment and tests that they en-
day, 36 children will be diagnosed seven of
dure can be dangerous, painful and most of
whom will die.
all, she says, frightening for a young child. mom to mom nwi | january 2015 | page 10
Along with being emotionally devastated,
entertainment featuring ArtBeat Live and
they may soon be financially devastated.
Wolf Pack.
NICK Foundation provides initial financial
Tickets may be purchased at thewinnersare.
help. After that, each family’s needs are
eventbrite.com. They are currently in need of
addressed according to their individual sit-
event sponsors as well. For more information
uations. If there is a great financial need,
on the event please contact B & B Custom
they then connect with friends or other family
Events at 219.689.2162.
members to coach them through organizing
“We continue to be humbled and honored
a successful private benefit. They also work
by the support of our community. It is how
to connect families with various resources
we built and have grown this foundation,”
through the hospitals their children are be-
Criner, mother of three and grandmother to
ing treated at.
five says. “We do what we do because no
One of NICK Foundation’s major fundraisers
else was and someone has to. There is a
is being held next month. The Oscar-themed
need in our community and every communi-
event, “The Winners Are…Kids Fighting
ty for a support system for families who have
Cancer” will be February 28, 2015 at Halls
a child battling cancer.”
of St. George in Schererville, Ind. from 6 pm
To learn more about the NICK Foundation
to 11 pm. Tickets are $75 per person and
nwicancerkids.org or visit them on Face-
includes dinner, open bar, silent auction and
book. - mtm
nwi
couch talk judy miller
J
child-centered divorce
January is Child-Centered Divorce Aware-
sad, frightened, and confused. Our family
ness Month. Historically more divorces are
foundation was breaking apart. We walked
filed in January than in any other month. For
on proverbial eggs...
this reason, January was selected to grow
As an adult reflecting back I know it was not
awareness about putting the needs of the
our job to get our parents to prioritize our
children of divorce “first.”
needs; it was our parents’ job. But they did
I am a child of divorce. My parents di-
not know how.
vorced when I was away attending college.
My brothers and I tried to fix our parents’
Although I was sad I also felt immense re-
relationship. We stepped up into and em-
lief. The years of contempt, criticism, ongo-
braced blame. We believed that it was our
ing arguments, slamming doors, and cold
collective faults that our parents’ marriage
pervasive silence would no longer happen
was dissolving. I once promised my mother
within the walls of the home I grew up in.
I would quit being so snotty to my brothers,
Perhaps when home on break I would never
sure that my behavior affected her rela-
again hear my mother’s wracking sobs late
tionship with my father. My mother smiled
at night on the other side of her closed bed-
warmly sharing that my snottiness was not
room door-when she thought my three broth-
the issue, but she would like me to stop it
ers and I were long asleep and she could
anyway.
safely shed the emotions that filled her and
My brothers and I gathered in the house
not affect us.
far from my mother and talked of what we
My brothers and I knew most of what was
could do to find the middle, how we could
going on, but as children and then teens
keep the peace when both parents were
moving into adulthood, we had no idea
home-things like doing our chores without
how to resolve the turmoil and hurt that en-
being asked and being kind to each other,
veloped all of us. Instead we sucked it up.
all of the time. Our gatherings took on ur-
We did not talk to any of our friends about
gency before my father returned from one
our parents and we kept them out of the
of his many “business trips.”
house when our father was home. We were
My mother disclosed that she stayed with
momtomomnwi.com | like us on facebook | page 13
my father because of us. At the time I was
I wish my parents had split earlier and had
thankful that we meant so much to her, but
agreed to a child-centered divorce. Parents
looking back I wish she had not. I fully un-
who set out to make it difficult for their soon-
derstand that staying married to him cost all
to-be ex and ex only end up hurting their
of us; this baggage has accompanied my
kids or their relationships with them. I know.
brothers and I into our marriages and rela-
I’m a child of divorce. - mtm
tionships. A Few Thoughts from a Marriage and Family Therapist: I interviewed Kathy G. Slaughter, MSW, LCSW, Individual, Marriage and Family Therapist about child-centered divorce. She shared, “During a divorce, parents often get distracted by their own fear and anger as their marriage is dissolving. By intentionally choosing to commit to being good co-parents first, parents prioritize meeting their children’s needs during and after the divorce.” “Children need stability and consistency in their lives. One of the simplest ways divorced parents can put their child first is by following the parenting time schedule as consistently as they possibly can. Communicating with each other directly and without involving the children is another simple way parents can put their child’s needs first. Being honest with the kids about what is happening is important.” “Parents should keep the details of disagreements or arguments between them as much as possible, instead of involving the children directly (i.e. telling them about it or using the child as a go between) or indirectly (arguing in front of the children or complaining to others in front of the children.” “Research has shown children of divorced parents actually do better than children in families that stay together for ‘the sake of the children.’ In the shortterm, divorce will upset a child’s sense that the world is a safe and predictable place. In the long-term, a stable, divorced, co-parenting arrangement is better for a child’s well being than a chaotic and argumentative two-parent household.”
Tell your kids as soon as you are sure you are divorcing. Assure your kids that what is happening between you in no way their fault. Get out of the past. Staying mired in the past sucks you back into the memories and connected emotions. Let go. Live in the moment. Be the united front for your kids. Put them first. It is not about you, or you and your ex. It is about your kids. Stick to your and your kids’ routines, rules, and discipline as consistent as possible. Doing so will help them understand what to expect as well as provide them with security. Make sure both you and your ex continue to be engaged in your kids’ lives. Kids need assurances that they are valued and loved. Keep your feelings to yourself. Keep your arguments and conflicts away from the kids’ hearing. Do not use your kids as messengers. Make sure your support systems understand that you expect them to refrain from saying anything negative or disparaging about your ex around the kids. Watch the negative comments about and blame; your ex is your children’s other parent and they love and are loyal to them.
Commit to cooperating with your ex-spouse. Stay child-focused. Keep this in mind: love your child more than you dislike your ex.
mom to mom nwi | january 2015 | page 14
Handy Resources for Your and Your Kids Books: A Smart Girls’ Guide to Her Parents’ Divorce, Nancy Holyoke (American Girl book, grades 3-5) Dinosaurs Divorce, Laurene Krasny Brown and Marc Brown (preschool through grade 1) The Divorce Helpbook for Teens, Cynthia MacGregor (teens) Divorce is Not the End of the World, Zoe Stern, Evan Stern, Evan Stern, Ellen Sue Stern (ages tweens through teens) Divorce Workbook for Children: Help for Kids to Overcome Difficult Family Changes and Grow up Happy, Lisa M. Schab (ages 6-12) Flora and Ulysses, Kate DiCamillo (grades 3-6) Horton Hatches the Egg, Dr. Seuss (K through grade 4) It’s Not Your Fault, Koko Bear, Vicki Lansky (ages 3-7) Kissing Hand, Audrey Penn, Ruth E. Harper (ages 6-12) Living with Mom and Living with Dad, Melanie Walsh (preschool though grade 2) Mom’s House, Dad’s House for Kids: Feeling at Home in One Home or Two, Isolina Ricci Ph.D. (ages tweens through teens) The Family Book, Todd Parr (ages 3-6) Two Homes, Claire Masurel (ages 3-7) What in the World Do You Do when Your Parents Divorce?: A Survival Guide for Kids, Kent Winchester, Roberta Beyer (ages 6-12) When My Parents Forgot How to Be Friends, Jennifer Moore-Malinos, Marta Fabrega (ages 4-7) Movies: Hope Floats (PG13) Mrs. Doubtfire (PG13) Stepmom (PG13)
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.
feature nichole odijk demario 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.
nwi
T
new year, new you
The New Year brings on a bevy of resolu-
Maniar explains the treatment results last
tions, many of which are centered on health,
48 hours and are meant to jump start some-
fitness and weight loss. 7E FitSpa located in
one’s path to wellness, “You see the results
Highland, Ind. offers a variety of services to
and are motivated to keep going with other
help their clientele on their journey to a bet-
healthy choices…We get your muscles to a
ter a quality of life.
conditioned stated and then you can contin-
The franchise spa’s mission is to “inspire
ue to maintain.”
a healthy and mindful lifestyle, along with
Torcing stimulates the muscles in a way Ma-
unique combinations of natural and scientif-
niar says is 100 times more effective than
ic therapies – one person and one neigh-
working out and can be described as in-
borhood at a time.” The spa’s services are
tense.
focused on technology, which is what orig-
7E’s Myolift microcurrent treatment is their
inally drew owner Renuka Maniar to the
noninvasive face lift solution. They also of-
company just over two years ago.
fer microdermabrasion and chemical peels.
For those interested in toning, tightening and
Their infrared sauna is often coupled with
contouring muscles in their arms, thighs, abs
their other services to help warm the muscles
and glutes 7E FitSpa uses stimulation called
and improve results.
torcing. The bio-electrical stimulation is non-
She says she has clients who have recently
invasive and has no downtime, side effects
given birth to those suffering from the dis-
or pain.
eases such as Multiple Sclerosis and stroke mom to mom nwi | january 2015 | page 16
What’s in a name: The “7” developed from the universal number such as seven musical notes, seven colors of the rainbow and seven body chakras. The “e” is for the 7 essential elements of wellness. Exercise and optimize energy of the muscles, and proper posture for a healthy body Healthy Lifestyle – Balanced Diet Healthy lifestyle implies a balanced and healthy diet because 67% of our being is what we eat. This nourishment gives vitality and energy for a full life. Kriya – Cleansing practices
victims. Clients are weighed and measured to track progress. Staff regularly inquires into whether clients are also incorporating healthy eating, proper hydration and exercise to maximize results. She stresses, as with any new health-related regimen, a doctor’s clearance is advised. Maniar recommends anyone opting to use their services should try at least six treatments. “Six seems to be the magic number for when people really start to see a noticeable difference,” she says. All of their treatment plans are personalized for each person and address an individual’s concerns. Devices and technology used at the spa is FDA cleared. Spa hours are by appointment only from 10 am to 8 pm Monday through Friday and 10 am to 5 pm on Saturdays. They are located at 206445th Street in Highland, Ind. Contact them by phone at 219.922.7337, visit them at 7efitspa. com or on Facebook. - mtm
Commit to becoming clear in body and mind through movement and other various methods offered at 7E to clear toxicity in body and mind. Positive energy – Breathing techniques Improve your breathing. Remember to breathe deeply, because that is a vital source of life we have. It gives nourishment and self connection. Flexibility – Neuro-muscular relief techniques Through various means neuro-muscular relief can be achieved, which gives the body flexibility and strength. Deep Relaxation Inner Peace 7E Supports all means to achieve inner peace and helps the community to grow in a healthy way.
&
fun games beth whitaker Beth Whitaker is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and married mother of two boys – with a baby girl on the way! When Beth has free time, she enjoys crafting and sewing.
T
d.i.y. ottoman
This month, I am changing gears a bit and channeling my inner DIY goddess and sharing with you a recent project my husband and I took on. This could be an article on interpersonal relationships because working on projects together can be a little tense, but I will focus on the ottoman.
Tufted Ottoman
We recently got new fur-
very patient husband out to retrieve the table. When we
niture and I really wanted a nice ottoman to go with
got it home, it was perfect for the project I had in mind.
our set. I wanted something padded, but really could
I couldn’t believe my luck. There were two holes in the
not find the right color to match what we purchased.
top of the table that probably once held glass, but we
Within a week of getting the new couch, I drove past
filled those in with plywood so the whole surface was
a house with a coffee table up on its side by the road
very sturdy. Next, we cleaned the cobwebs off the table
waiting for trash pick up. I went home and sent my
and it was spray painted a nice cream color.
mom to mom nwi | january 2015 | page 18
nwi
Cover Buttons While the table dried, we took
between the bottom piece and the top piece with the
the time to cover the buttons with the button cover kit.
fabric before pressing them together. Our little guy has
We used a little of the excess upholstery fabric and
already taken the top off of 3 out of our 6 buttons. We
chose the larger buttons for our tufting. We only wanted
found that pressing the button top and bottoms together
6 buttons. You can choose whatever size of button and
was difficult because of the thick upholstery fabric, so
number of buttons to fit your preferences. We learned a
we used a can from the cabinet and a hammer to slam
valuable lesson about these button cover kits. They are
it down. This is not how the package recommends do-
somewhat flimsy so make sure you put some super glue
ing the button covers, but it worked for us.
momtomomnwi.com | like us on facebook | page 19
Foam and Batting
Now we can move
Create your Grid
The next step is one we
on to the fun part - this took us one afternoon to
tried to do with the fabric on the ottoman and it just
complete. First, measure the foam and lay it down
did not work. We needed a grid on the table in
on your table. Make sure you have it lined up to
order to find the perfect spot for each button. If we
the edge. We used a little spray adhesive to hold it
had thought of this ahead, we would have made
in place so it didn’t slide around while we worked.
the grid directly on the wooden table-top and drilled
Next, take the batting and lay it over your table.
the holes at that time. But, we figured it out as we
You want to make sure you have enough to wrap
went along. So, we created a grid on the foam using
around the sides. Trim it before you staple because
permanent marker and then my husband drilled a
it is difficult to get under there to cut once you have
half-inch hole through the table in each spot where
it stapled. We folded the corners neatly and then
we wanted a button. The grid took us a little while
stapled all the way around.
but we wanted to make sure our buttons were in the
Materials needed
perfect spot.
Spray Paint
Fabric We now will move on to covering the foam
1½ inch thick foam
and batting with your fabric. I looked everywhere
1 inch thick batting
for the perfect fabric for my table. I even tried a
Upholstery fabric or large curtain panel to cover the entire surface (give yourself a little extra).
few curtain panels from Target, but they weren’t the
Button cover kit
Joann’s in the upholstery section. The foam, batting
Super glue
and fabric add up, so make sure you go when things
Strong upholstery needle
are on sale and have coupons. We gently placed
Nylon thread
the fabric over the table and adjusted it so the fabric
Drill and ½ inch drill bit
lines were straight.
Staple gun Spray adhesive
right color. I found the perfect fabric for our table at
Tufting
This is the step that took by far the lon-
gest to complete. This is when we tuft our ottoman. Obviously, you could make a padded ottoman without the tufting if you chose; we just thought the tufting would add a more finished look. First, I took a long piece of thread through the needle and then knotted the ends together. This will double up the thread. Next, my husband crawled under the table with the needle and fed it through the holes we had drilled earlier. I gently pressed down on the fabric so that I could see the needle coming through. Use a thimble for this or you may hurt your finger pushing the
Finishing
needle through the foam. I fed the thread and nee-
trimmed around the fabric so that we had just enough
dle through the button and then pushed the needle
to staple on to the table. Be careful not to cut off too
back through the fabric, foam and batting. Getting
much fabric. We stapled all of the edges first and then
the needle back through the drilled holes was a little
went back and did the corners. I tried different meth-
tricky, which is why we ended up with half-inch holes
ods for getting the corners to look nice and this was
through the table. We tried smaller holes and could
also trial and error. I basically folded each side in,
not get it to feed through. Once you have the needle
almost like wrapping a present. So, I folded one side
through to the bottom of the table, the thread needs
in and then the other and then tucked it down and
to be stapled in place. We put a button on bottom,
stapled. My husband stapled while I pulled the fabric
slightly larger than the size of the hole, in order to
tight, making sure that no wrinkles developed around
hold the thread in place. To secure the top buttons, I
the buttons. You will want to use a lot of staples to
pushed down on the button so that it was tight while
make sure everything stays in place.
my husband stapled the thread in a zig-zag pattern underneath. (The picture will make this easier to understand). If you don’t use the zig-zag pattern, your thread will slide out of the staple. Repeat this step for each button on your ottoman.
After the tufting was finished, we
Now you have successfully created a beautiful padded ottoman out of an old coffee table. This was not a “cheap” project, but buying a new ottoman of this size would have been more expensive that what we spent on materials. Finding a free, or nearly free, table will bring your cost down significantly. Buying fabric and other items at a discount will also help. I hope you enjoy your ottoman as much as we love ours! - mtm
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get out get fit
nwi
stephanie edwards
food & fitness
K
Kick off a healthy new year in your family with these
Resolve to Eat Good Foods
resolutions. You’ll boost the odds that you’ll keep your
Simple changes to meals can make it easy for your family to eat
resolutions by involving your family and friends.
more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables every day. Cook with canned or frozen vegetables. On busy
Resolve to Make New Moves
weeknights, pull out frozen or canned produce to make
Play active games. Whether it’s tickle monster, jump
healthy meals quickly. Look for frozen vegetables without sauce,
rope, or dancing with your kids to their favorite music,
or low-sodium canned vegetables.
you can play and exercise at the same time.
Look for alternatives to red meat. Get the benefits of
Plan active family outings. Depending on your kids’
protein with limited amounts of fat by serving your fam-
ages and interests, you might plan family outings at the
ily skinless chicken or turkey breasts and other proteins such as beans, soy, and nuts.
park, ice-skating, or hiking on a nearby trail. Walk it out. Make regular walks a part of your day.
Let kids play with their healthy food. Set up a pizza bar
Plan treks around the neighborhood. Or make a habit
using whole wheat muffins as the ‘crust,’ with low-fat
of parking farther away from your destination and walking to it.
mozzarella, sliced mushrooms or bell pepper, and olives on top. Or let the kids make faces or other pictures out of carrot sticks and raisins – and then eat them. Prepare healthy snacks in advance. Bring home a melon, cut it up, and keep it in a bowl in the front of the fridge for snack time. Or slice cucumbers, celery, and carrot sticks to put in small bags. When the mood strikes, the kids can grab and go. Keep chilled water and calcium-fortified drinks in the fridge. Leave the sodas and sugary juices at the store. Kids will grab cold water if it’s handy. Serve fresh fruit as a dessert. Leave the cookies and cakes at the store. Even a dollop of whipped cream on fruit is healthier than baked goods.
mom to mom nwi | january 2015 | page 22
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mindy’s menu mindy gear 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!
B
bacon bites
Bacon. What more needs to be said? Let’s
a great appetizer. Bacon maple cupcakes,
face it - bacon isn’t just for breakfast any-
donuts and muffins can be found in many
more. It can be incorporated into every
bakeries. Bacon is everywhere! This month
meal of the day - even dessert! Bacon is so
I thought it would be fun to do some “Bacon
versatile; you can wrap a turkey or a steak
Bites”. They were delicious and easy to
in it. Bacon-wrapped dates give you a deli-
make. These would make a great addition
cious sweet and salty flavor combination for
to any Super Bowl Party.
Cream Cheese Poppers These are delicious and have great flavors. If you want a different flavor, try substituting a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for the chili powder. Or skip the jalapeno and cream cheese just wrapping
Ingredients
Directions
2-3 Chicken Breasts, cut into small pieces
Mix cream cheese, shredded cheese and
Dijon) with bacon and sprin-
4 ounces cream cheese, room temp
chili powder. Spread into the pepper
kle with brown sugar before
¾ cup shredded cheese (I used Monterey Jack)
half. Sprinkle chicken with salt/pepper.
10 jalapenos, cleaned and cut in half
Lay piece of chicken on top of pepper
10 slices bacon, raw and cut in half
(cream cheese side). Wrap in bacon and
1 Tbsp chili powder (more or less to taste)
secure with toothpick. Bake 350° for 20
Salt/pepper to taste
minutes, making sure chicken is cooked.
a piece of chicken (rolled in
baking (bake about 25 minutes). Either way is delicious!
mom to mom nwi | january 2015 | page 26
nwi
Bacon Caramel Delights This recipe is from the imagination of my friend. He is a huge foodie and we always end up talking about food. I wanted to put a dessert or sweet treat in for the month, but couldn’t decide if I wanted to do cupcakes or something similar to candied bacon. We decided a little bacon twist to a more traditional turtle. It is definitely something different.
Ingredients
Directions
1 ½ cups chopped pecans
In a microwave safe bowl, heat cream and butter in 30
1 recipe caramel (see below)
second segments until butter is melted and mixture is
8 slices bacon, cooked crisp
steaming. Meanwhile, using a large saucepan (mixture
and chopped
will bubble during the process, make sure your pan is
8 ounces melting chocolate
large enough to avoid a mess), add sugar, Karo and
8x8 pan lined with parchment)
water. Turn heat to high and cook (do no stir) until mixture reaches 290°. Turn heat off and slowly pour cream/
Caramel:
butter mixture into sugar. Gently whisk to combine. Turn
1 cup heavy cream
heat back to high and cook until it reaches approximate-
4 Tbsp unsalted butter
ly 250°. Turn off heat and add teaspoon of vanilla.
1 tsp sea salt 1 ½ cups sugar
Assembly:
4 Tbsp light Karo syrup
Sprinkle chopped pecans into bottom of lined pan. Pour
4 Tbsp water
warm caramel over pecans. Sprinkle with cooked ba-
1 tsp vanilla
con. Melt chocolate according to package and pour over top. Allow chocolate and caramel to harden prior to cutting.
momtomomnwi.com | like us on facebook | page 27
Bacon Avocado Rolls with Cilantro Ranch I can’t say that I used a recipe for this. The amounts are estimates. Make as many or as few as you want. You cannot make these too far in advance because avocado tends to darken quickly. However, once you serve them, they disappear quickly. Ingredients Eggroll wrappers (1 package)
16 bacon slices, cooked
2 large avocados
3 jalapeños, cut into strips (optional)
½ lime
1 Tbsp flour (mix with water to make
Salt
paste for sealing eggroll)
Cheese slices (Monterey jack & cheddar is what I used)
Cilantro Ranch sauce
Directions Slice the avocado and sprinkle with fresh lime juice and salt.
Ingredients
Cut the cooked bacon strips in half. Lay eggroll wrappers on
1 packet dry Hidden Valley Ranch dressing
1 clove garlic
work surface. Place ingredients in middle: cheese, slice of
1 cup plain greek yogurt
½ cup cilantro, washed
avocado, jalapeno, bacon, second slice of avocado. Wrap
1 large jalapeno, optional
up eggroll: fold one point over center, then fold in both
1 lime, juiced and zested
sides, spread flour mixture on final corner and edges and
½ cup milk (more or less to preferred consistency)
roll tightly to create eggroll. When finished rolling, place on
Directions Throw ingredients into blender. Blend until smooth. Use as dipping sauce!
baking sheet and brush with olive oil. Bake in a 350° oven for 10-15 minutes, turning once during baking.
Bacon Brussel Sprouts I am obsessed with roasting vegetables. This is definitely a
Ingredients 1 pound brussel sprouts, washed and halved 3 Tbsp balsamic 1 Tbsp pure maple syrup
recipe worth trying.
3 Tbsp olive oil
You can even skip
4 strips bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
Salt/Pepper to taste
the bacon (GASP!). They are still amaz-
Directions
ing. The maple syrup
Toss with brussel sprouts and spread in pan.
adds a hint of sweetness. Delicious! mom to mom nwi | january 2015 | page 28
Mix balsamic, maple syrup and olive oil. Bake 400° for 30-35 minutes. Toss with crumbled bacon and serve. .
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nwi
R
rusthead designs
Rusthead Design is a Valparaiso, Ind. based
they needed to offer tangible products as well
design, print and apparel company born out
they opted for something that paired well with
of the economic downturn. Owner and found-
their graphic design prowess leading them to
er Stephen Hedges was a graphic designer
screen printing. At the time, they were run-
with a large Chicago-based firm. When the
ning their start up out of Hedges’ parents’
recession hit, his employer began making
home. His parents, both with science back-
cuts. He was the last person hired in the art
grounds, were concerned with the chemicals
department and the first to go.
that would be used in the process. Equally
Like many recent college graduate twen-
concerned and determined, Hedges and
ty-somethings he became part of the boomer-
Jones set out to find an eco-friendly solution.
ang generation, moving back home with his
“We didn’t realize how dangerous some of
parents and taking odd part-time jobs. Hedg-
the traditional screen printing processes are,”
es had been taking on freelance projects and
he says.
soon recruited former classmate Eric Jones to
In researching, Hedges said he learned of
assist him with his workload.
the phthalates used in ink, the clothing them-
When the fledgling business owners realized
selves and clean up. The products in the
mom to mom nwi | january 2015 | page 29
cleaning process release pollutants in the air
“Anybody can screen print. It’s a lot of mus-
and can affect one’s health.
cle memory. We do a lot of custom shirts that
“When I was younger I did a lot of research
are more art based,” Hedges details. “We’re
on the environment and ways to reduce my
also not afraid to tell you if your idea isn’t
impact and so the choices we’ve made with
the most effective way to get your message
the company have been about making sure
across or appeal to the demographic being
that we’re not harming ourselves, our families
targeted. The way we do things may not al-
or our community while providing superior
ways be the most profitable, but in our eyes
products and services,” Hedges says.
it’s better for the customer.”
Fast forward nearly five years later and Rus-
Hedges explains that going green won’t
thead Design now operates from their Val-
necessarily cost more green as he works
paraiso storefront located at 1459 S. State
diligently to be competitive with companies
Road 2. They have found eco-friendly options
that choose not to use green solutions. He
for their ink and clean up process. They offer
says what his clients and prospective clients
organic, fair trade and American-made prod-
soon find out is they are willing to work with
ucts because, “It’s helping to improve every-
anyone whether it’s a small start up looking
one’s existence.” He says his team focuses
for a small run of products to increase brand
on fashion and design trends and regularly
awareness to fundraising events to large cor-
attends trainings and conferences to continue
porate projects.
to be on the cusp of what’s cutting edge.
To learn more visit rusthead.com, find
Hedges says not only are they a green com-
them on Facebook and Instagram or call
pany, but offer the expertise of two graphic
219.779.7878. - mtm
designers. Did you know? Wondering how they came up with the name Rusthead? That dates back to Hedges high school days when he first began saying he would love to own his own business some day. In exchange for helping a family friend with a photo editing project the friend offered to purchase Hedges future business’s domain name. He looked to his red hair for inspiration and found rusthead.com was available. The name has since become so catchy many call him “Rusty” rather than Steve. Business Cards Custom Photo Products mugs, license plates, key chains, etc. Design Services Family Reunion Shirts Team Wear
mtm education stephanie edwards
winter school blues
G
Getting back into the swing of things after win-
to help keep them on task and to answer ques-
ter break can be rough on everyone. Gone are
tions when problems arise. Ask your child where
the mornings of sleeping in and goofing around
the best place is to work. Both you and your child
during the day. Now our alarms are set and we
need to discuss pros and cons of different settings
are back at it! But a new year is a great time to
to arrive at a mutually agreed upon location.
evaluate that routine, especially the routine when it comes to homework. Experts say tasks are easiest
Step 2. Set up a homework center. Once you and
to accomplish when tied to specific routines. By
your child have identified a location, fix it up as a
establishing daily routines for homework comple-
home office/homework center. Make sure there is
tion, you will not only make homework go more
a clear workspace large enough to set out all the
smoothly, but you will also be fostering a sense of
materials necessary for completing assignments.
order your child can apply to later life, including
Outfit the homework center with the kinds of sup-
college and work.
plies your child is most likely to need, such as pencils, pens, colored markers, rulers, scissors,
Step 1: Find a location in the house where home-
a dictionary and thesau-
work will be done. The right location will depend
rus, graph pa-
on your child and the culture of your family. Some
per, con-
children do best at a desk in their bedroom. It is a quiet location, away from the hubbub of family noise. Other children become too distracted by the things they keep in their bedroom and do better at a place removed from those distractions, like the dining room table. Some children need to work by themselves. Others need to have parents nearby
nwi
struction paper, glue and cellophane tape, lined
ual child. Some children need a break right after
paper, a calculator, spell checker, and, depending
school to get some exercise and have a snack.
on the age and needs of your child, a computer
Others need to start homework while they are still
or laptop. If the homework center is a place that
in a school mode (i.e., right after school when
will be used for other things (such as the dining
there is still some momentum left from getting
room table), then your child can keep the supplies
through the day). In general, it may be best to get
in a portable crate or bin. If possible, the home-
homework done either before dinner or as early
work center should include a bulletin board that
in the evening as the child can tolerate. The later
can hold a monthly calendar on which your child
it gets, the more tired the child becomes and the
can keep track of long-term assignments. Allow-
more slowly the homework gets done.
ing children some leeway in decorating the homework center can help them feel at home there, but
Step 4. Establish a daily homework schedule. In
you should be careful that it does not become too
general, at least into middle school, the home-
cluttered with distracting materials.
work session should begin with your sitting down with your child and drawing up a homework
Step 3. Establish a homework
schedule. You should review all the assignments
time. Your child should get
and make sure your child understands them and
in the habit of doing
has all the necessary materials. Ask your child to
homework at the
estimate how long it will take to complete each
same time every
assignment. Then ask when each assignment will
day. The time
get started. If your child needs help with any as-
may vary de-
signment, then this should be determined at the
pending on
beginning so that the start times can take into ac-
the individ-
count parent availability.- mtm
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nwi
ask the doc.
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 acu-
dr. sandee clark
puncture and massage.
what to expect when you’re expecting I
In this month’s Ask the Doc we answer a
there is to know about every health care
question directly from one of our readers.
problem there is and while YES they should
The question asked was:
know how the body works some MD’s simply do not have a lot of knowledge in topics
“With all the information coming out about
that are considered “alternative” or have
GMO’s, environmental toxins and vaccine
different options to give you that don’t in-
ingredients, what role should my doctor
volve prescribing drugs.
play in giving me accurate information on
Keep in mind that medical doctors aren’t
these hot topics?”
the only DOCTOR to turn too when it comes to your health. There are Chiropractors,
What a great question - and one that I ad-
Naturopaths, Osteopaths and Psycholo-
dress quite frequently. First, when you have
gists just to name a few and each gives a
a question about challenging topics you
little bit different information that can be
need to be your own advocate. Look at as
very useful. I encourage you to talk with
much valid research as possible and read
several of these doctors and utilize all the
things with an open mind.
The internet
facts so you can have the best information
gives a lot of information but can be very
to make an informed decision for your fam-
one sided. I tell patients to try and make
ily’s health.
sense of it first but if something is confusing
The topic of GMO’s, environmental toxins
then contact a health care practitioner that
and what’s in a vaccine is and always will
is experienced in that topic. You wouldn’t
be debatable because solutions that don’t
go to a Dentist for eye glasses, or a Nutri-
involve medicine or surgery are simply
tionist for spinal health related questions.
not lucrative, there is not a lot money to
So why would you go to a medical doctor
be made for the practitioner if the solu-
for something other than medicine? Med-
tion is quick. For instance, I get calls from
ical doctors go to Medical School to learn
patients desperate for relief because they
medicine and what drugs to prescribe.
have gone to their MD for musculoskeletal
M.D’s are expected to know everything
pain were given a prescription for muscle
momtomomnwi.com | like us on facebook | page 39
relaxers, pain killers and anti-inflammatory
medication comes with side effects. Drug
drugs to get rid of the symptoms often be-
companies are pushing medical doctors
ing told if that doesn’t work they can come
to give patients the “newest and greatest”
back and have a cortisone shot and/or
drug with less research to back it up and
look into surgery. Now compare that expe-
because people are looking for that quick
rience to a trip to the chiropractor. It often
fix medical doctors are backed into a cor-
turns out that pain relief is felt the same day
ner to give the patient instant relief. While
and future care is to get to the root cause of
medicine was created with all the best
why it was there in the first place. Two dif-
intentions in today’s corporate-run world
ferent approaches two different outcomes,
sometimes those intentions do not have our
only you can decide which route to take.
best interest at heart. - mtm
Remember, surgery is irreversible and
Helpful links Some helpful websites that I recommend to my patients on these hot topics are: www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/additives.htm www.centerforfoodsafety.org/issues/976/ge-food-labeling/about-ge-labeling www.nrdc.org/health/toxics.asp
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nwi
mom to mom nwi | january 2015 | page 40
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Let’s make a plan.
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