Mom to Mom, NWI -- January 2017

January 2017 | Volume 6 | Issue 1

r a e Y 5 ersary Issue

Anniv

momtomomnwi.com

|

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FREE January 21, 2017 | 9:15-10 a.m.

As a hub for children’s play and development, Bellaboo’s is happy to host a new Parenting Together class & discussion. Join Dr. Anthony McCrovits, executive director of Globe Star, for a discussion about Gentle Parenting. This opportunity is completely free, and children may come and play with a caregiver before Bellaboo’s opens. Plus, you can stay and play the rest of the day for $2 off regular admission.

Help us prepare for an accurate number by registering 219.963.2070

A Grown-Up & Me Class Thursdays, Jan. 19-Feb. 9 | 10:15-11 a.m.

The Best of Bellaboo’s JAM PACKED into 15 minutes of fun and learning + UNLIMITED play in Bellaboo’s afterward. Only $64 for all 4 weeks + siblings 75% off! Sign up now!

Give Kids A Smile Day!

January 30th - February 2nd from 8am–7pm* NorthShore Health Centers along with thousands of dentists across the country take time to help underserved children get the oral health care they need.

FREE Examination FREE X-Rays FREE Cleaning

Children Ages 3 – 16

Must Be Uninsured & New Dental Patient to NorthShore

FREE Electric Spin Brush & Toothpaste *Hours Vary By Location: 6450 US Highway 6, Portage 3099 Central Ave., Lake Station 6091 Broadway, Merrillville 6920 Indianapolis Blvd, Hammond

For Appointments or More Information Call

(888) 459-2349 www.northshorehealth.org

letter from the editor

5

mom to mom feature ice skating fun in nwi 6 mysk: sarah mitchell 10 focusing on joys rather than resoultions 20 get everyone out the door smiling... 30

mtm: fun & games

coloring contest

9

ask the doctor

tips for a quick and natural labor

mom to mom eats

anniversary meal

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 Judy Miller Amber Neace Trina Bobrowski Debra Krieg-Lewis Brooke Recktenwall

16 26

Advertising & Submissions Mom to Mom NWI LLC PO Box 1261 Valparaiso, IN 46384 Layout Design Mark Halliar designs.by.mark@gmail.com Cover & Table of Contents Photography Becca Timpe Malmquist Photography Printing The Papers 206 S Main St, Milford, IN 46542

Did you miss one? Visit our new and improved website: MomtoMomNWI. com! Read past issues, subscribe and follow along on facebook!

ON THE COVER

Mom to Mom NWI is a monthly publication by Mom to Mom NWI

Megan & Bronwyn Cherepko

LLC. All rights reserved. Production without permission is strictly pro-

Photography By: Becca Timpe, Malmquist Photography

hibited. All photographs & articles submitted become the sole property of Mom to Mom NWI Magazine. Š2017 Mom to Mom NWI LLC

happy 5th anniversary

H

Happy 2017!! There’s so much to celebrate this new year here at Mom to Mom, NWI. It’s hard to believe this is our fifth anniversary – what a milestone!! As publisher and creator of the magazine, I am filled with so many different emotions. For starters, the amount of happiness and joy that fills my heart is out of this world. Joy for the support I’ve had all these years and happiness for the smiles I’ve seen on so many who have been affected by the magazine.

Over the years, Mom to Mom, NWI has become more than just a magazine for moms, by moms. It has become an outlet for those seeking guidance, support, and love. We have given back to the community with various fundraisers, charity events, and holiday giving, and it has brought me a sense of accomplishment and success that I never thought I could achieve.

My love for this magazine has grown so much- it truly is like another child of mine. Every month, I pour my heart and soul into an issue of Mom to Mom, NWI and I wouldn’t have it any other way. This magazine is an extension of my heart and of my family and I feel so blessed that I get to do something that I love so much and share it with those who truly appreciate it.

I want to thank our readers, our community businesses, and those writers who also pour their hearts into this magazine, because

without

all

of

you, Mom to Mom, NWI wouldn’t be possible. I am truly humble for the continued support and I look forward to all that 2017 has to offer.

Take Care,

Stephanie

mtm feature

by stephanie edwards

Ice skating fun in NWI

I

Ice skating is a fun and relaxing activity that’s been enjoyed by many for centuries. When you look up the history of ice skating, it dates back to prehistoric times – that’s pretty neat!! Ice skating has certainly evolved over time and here in Northwest Indiana we are lucky to have some great ice skating options. In Lake County, you can enjoy outdoor ice skating at Deer River Water Park, and in Porter County you can head on over to the Central Park Plaza Ice Rink.

Deep River Ice Skating Plaza The 14,500-square foot Deep River Ice Skating Plaza is officially open, along with all of the food stands, heated bathrooms, and U.S. 30 Surf Shop!

The skating area works its way around the big clock tower with plenty of places to stop and rest, and plenty of rails for shakier skaters. There’s a nice natural loop to the plaza, and plenty of decorations and lights to enjoy while you skate. Beginners and pros alike are always welcome to come enjoy an evening on the ice.

Open Skate hours are Thursdays 4-9 p.m., Fridays 2-10 p.m.

Saturdays 12-10 p.m. and Fridays 12-9 p.m. AND will be open

The whole skating plaza can also be rented out for anyone looking to do a larger event. This full-rink rental can be used for larger birthday parties, fundraisers, school or homeschool events... the list goes on!

Skating Plaza should remain open through February as long as the weather continues to cooperate with us.

Central Park Plaza Ice Rink The 12,000-square foot open-air William E. Urschel Pavilion in downtown Valparaiso is converted into a hub of winter enjoyment with its 80 by 120 foot outdoor ice rink that is nicely protected from the elements under its towering arched roof. A state-of-the-art sound system for music and colorfully changing lights set the stage for a memorable ice skating experience for all ages and abilities.

additional days and times during school breaks. Keep an eye on deepriverwaterpark.com, and facebook.com/deepriverwaterpark for the most up to date information.

Open Skate Rates are $4 for children ages 14 and under, and $5 for anyone over 14. Non-skating spectators are free. There is an additional skate rental free of $6, but guests are definitely welcome to bring their own.

Parties are available and include a private indoor party room where you’ll have pizza, soda, hot chocolate, and cupcakes, plus all the skating you could want! Call to reserve your party room today at 219-947-7850 ext. 604. Parties are designed for 10-15 people.

Guests are welcomed into the Indiana Beverage Activity Center for admission to the ice rink and ice skate rental. The Center boasts tables and chairs for skaters’ and visitors’ to warm up from the outdoor elements; a concession stand with snacks, hot chocolate and soft drinks; and a conference room that can be reserved for small parties. Locker rental is available to stash shoes and other items while skating. A full glass wall allows those inside to watch the action on the ice.

Open Skate hours are Mondays and Wednesdays 6-8p.m., Tuesdays 6:30-8:30pm (Two for Tuesdays), Thursdays 6:3010p.m., Fridays 12-10p.m. Saturdays 11a.m.-10p.m. and Sundays 11a.m.-7p.m.

Open Skate Admission is $5, non-skating spectators are free.

There is an addi-

boni ride for the birthday child! Call to reserve your party room

tional skate rental

today at 219-548-4888 Parties are designed for 15 people.

free of $3, helmet

The whole skating plaza can also be rented out for anyone

rental of $3, locker

looking to do a larger event. This private full-rink is available

rental of $2 and

Sunday-Wednesday evenings from 7-10 p.m.. Skate rentals are

skate aide rental

available for just $3. Sound system, LED lighting, conference

ranging from $3-

room and lobby inside Indiana Beverage Activity Center are

$5 per hour.

included in the pricing.

Two-hour birthday

The Central Park Plaza Ice Rink also offers up skating lessons

parties are avail-

for toddlers, beginners, and adults; a youth hockey league for

able on Saturdays

ages 5 -13; and field trips from 8a.m. - 2p.m. Monday through

and Sundays and

Thursday. For more information on the Ice Rink, go to www.

include a private room where you’ll have pizza, cupcakes, re-

centralparkplazavalpo.com and click on the Ice Rink link. - mtm

served ice skates, three regular style skate aids and a Zam-

mom to mom nwi | january 2017 | page 8

Coloring Contest Page!

Happy 2017! To celebrate the new year, we thought we’d bring back

es to Bellaboo’s Children’s Play and Discovery Center and our two

a favorite amongst our youngest of fans – the coloring page!! This

older winners will each receive 4 passes to Ice Skate at Deep River

month we are sticking with a winter theme and asking our artists ages

Waterpark.

3-10 to color this picture and mail it to us at Mom to Mom, NWI PO

The deadline to get your artwork to us is Friday, January 27. The win-

Box 1261, Valparaiso, IN 46384.

ners will be contacted via email and all four pages will be published

We will choose four winners in the following age groups; 3-4, 5-6,

in our February issue – GOOD LUCK!!!!

7-8, and 9-10. Our two younger winners will each receive 4 pass-

Name Age Address City State Zip Phone Number Email Address

mtm feature

by nichole odijk demario

MYSK: Sarah Mitchell

S

Sarah Mitchell of Michigan City has held jobs in the food service industry since before she could drive a car. She’d often lend a hand in her family’s restaurant and bar that included adjacent rental property. So when her uncle was ready to retire, she knew her father could use a new business partner. She was ready to make her mark on the business. A fresh look, updated menu and a new name, Dark Star of the Dunes and Mitchell’s entrepreneurial aspirations were in motion.

In the midst of determining her new role as a business owner, she received news of another role she had all but given up on – motherhood. At thirtyseven-years-old, Mitchell became a first-time business owner and unexpectedly a firsttime mother.

“I just kept going. It was a very upsetting time. I knew I didn’t want to give up. I was not going to let anyone tell me no. My dad said, ‘You can back out. Things have changed.’ I said, ‘And then what?’

I have my own thing now. It’s challenging, but good.”

Now nearly two years later, Mitchell has helped her business develop its identity of “dive bar chic.” The bar and restaurant is located at 3860 W Dunes Highway; Mitchell describes it as loungy and comfortable with a “friendly not fake” staff. It’s a space, she says, devoid of pretentiousness where everyone is welcome. She’s hired a chef to help craft a menu that can stand on its own merit with offerings like calzones, gourmet pizzas, a variety of salads, inventive appetizers, craft beers and a vast cocktail selection.

Connecting her patrons to the local community-at-large is a high priority. Mitchell says she accomplishes this by featuring artwork from local artists throughout the space and bringing in local entertainment from jazz ensembles to bands to drag shows and slam poetry.

Although the venue is outside of the artsy downtown Michigan City, Mitchell says she’s tried to assimilate with that crowd and demographic. She also makes every effort to shop small businesses.

And while her business is her passion, she says her world is her 18-month-old son Cameron.

“That little boy…” Mitchell says, her voice breaking slightly, pausing to ask Cameron for a hug. “I hope he understands one day my hard work is not hard work when it’s for him…if he’s happy, I’m happy.

I hope he learns to be independent, too. He can do anything and he’ll have my support just as I have my family’s support.”

Cameron’s father left the picture when Mitchell was in her first trimester. She says she never looked back choosing instead to continue on her unconventional path. This included the decision to have a

home birth with a local midwife and two doulas.

“I just didn’t want to be in a hospital setting with the bright lights and the poking and prodding. I wanted to give birth in a more natural way. I was 100-percent sure of myself and my body. Once I made the decision, there was no turning back,” Mitchell details.

One of Mitchell’s doulas Sharon Angelina nominated her as a “Mom You Should Know.”

“Sarah is fierce, tireless and devoted to her toddler, while still somehow finding the time and energy to plan a unique menu and single handedly manage a business,” Angelina says. “Dark Star is a hidden gem in the Dunes, but Sarah...Sarah is an extraordinary example of single parenthood.”

For parents, more specifically single mothers, with dreams of their own, Mitchell says, “Keep your eyes on your child. As long as everything you do, you do for them everything will fall into place.

Stay strong sisters.” - mtm

Our physicians are passionate about giving

patients the best care possible for women’s health issues in a caring and comfortable environment.

Physicians at Community Care Center for Women specialize in all aspects of women’s health.

• Complete gynecologic care • Natural childbirth • Minimally invasive gynecological • Infertility issues surgeries • Menopause • Adolescent gynecology • Preventative health • Routine and high-risk obstetric care • daVinci® surgical system We have several convenient locations to meet your needs: Tracy Collins, MD Aruna Uppuluri, MD 9112 Columbia Munster 219-836-5040

Don Henry, MD Jennifer Daley Herrera, NP 1001 Main St, 2nd Floor Dyer 219-836-5512

John Taylor, MD Rebecca Papamihalakis, NP 3100 45th Ave Highland 219-924-1888

A. Donna Farin, DO 9660 Wicker Ave St John 219-226-2336

Katrina Lee, MD 9660 Wicker Ave St John 219-226-2336

414 Lincoln Hwy, LaPorte 219-924-1888

929 Ridge Rd, Suite 3 Munster 219-836-0606

Howard Marcus, MD 9124 Columbia Ave, Suite A Munster 219-440-7025

Anthony Gentile, MD 1001 Main St, 3rd Floor Dyer 219-865-9160 16900 W 101st St Dyer 219-865-9160

Patricia Medina-McDevitt, MD 929 Ridge Rd, Suite 3 Munster 219-836-0606

L

“Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow”. It’s a classic song we love to sing during the holidays and for kids they are words to live by.

The first snowfall of the season is always exciting when you have no place to go because you can enjoy its beauty from the comfort of your home and your kids run outside eagerly to go play!

We decided to ask our Facebook fans to share with us their kids enjoying the snow this winter and we loved seeing all those smiling faces! - mtm

CLARK'S FULL PAGE AD 8-23-16_Layout 1 8/23/16 9:20 AM Page 1

mtm: ask the doc

by dr. sandee clark

Tips for a Quick &

Not every pregnancy is the same and believe me not every

1. Eating healthy fats

pregnant mom is the same either. Being a Chiropractor that

N

Fats are needed for proper hormone production and the body

specializes in Pregnancy Chiropractic care, I see a lot of preg-

needs certain kinds of fats to make hormones correctly. Specif-

nant moms coming through my office and I hear so many stories

ically, the body needs more saturated fats and absolutely no

on what has helped them get through labor easy and as natural

artificial fats like vegetable oils and margarine. Some sources

as possible.

of saturated fats would be coconut oil, butter, animal products,

While the pregnancy part is one thing, planning and preparing

chia seeds, fermented cod liver oil and if you like fish, the wild

for a quick and natural labor is a whole different ball game.

caught ones with Omega 3’s is what you’re looking for.

Here are a few tips for any pregnant mom, whether it is your first pregnancy or your 6th, that can help your body along

2. Staying at home until it’s time

during the birth of your little one.

While this may not be for everyone, laboring at home for as long as you can has been a very popular choice for some wom-

mom to mom nwi | january 2017 | page 16

& Natural Labor

home birth. So relax, turn on some music, and dance with your husband while your baby gets ready to be born.

3. Using Magnesium supplements Using magnesium as an oral supplement as well as in an oil spray has many benefits. Magnesium is a natural muscle relaxer so taking it orally has helped relieve muscle cramps at night, helps reduce insomnia and morning sickness is reduced to a minimum. Magnesium oil spray can be sprayed on the abdomen to help the skin stretch during those Braxton-hicks contractions and is needed for proper hormone function and muscle health. 250 mg of magnesium is the recommended dosage.

4. Exercise/Squats daily There are many pregnancy videos and books on all sorts of exercises to do during pregnancy to keep you fit, but what about the ones to strengthen those pelvic floor muscles to get ready to push out an 8, 9 or heaven forbid a 10 lb baby! Yikes.

Amongst the Kegel exercises you may want to focus on squats especially when lying on your back during labor just doesn’t cut it. Getting on your hands and knees or squatting over a birthing ball to open the pelvic girdle to reduce any resistance against gravity is what you’re searching for. Getting those muscles strong for labor may help you dilate quicker too.

5. Pregnancy Chiropractic Adjustments Focusing on proper pelvic alignment is important for adjusting pregnant moms. Seeking out a Webster Certified Chiropractor which is a special chiropractic adjustment to the pelvis area allowing for a reduction of any possible intrauterine constraints (which can be any imbalance in the pelvis and sacrum area leading to abnormal tension and muscles and ligament imbalances), helps to reduce the likelihood of a breech presentation (baby is head up). Pregnancy chiropractic treatments are safe and effective and can be scheduled right along with your OB appointments. Typically, pregnant mom’s treatment plans are

en. There is something about being in your own home that al-

once a month for the first trimester, once every two weeks in the

lows a woman to relax and listen to her body without someone

second trimester and at least once a week (sometimes twice per

telling her what she should be doing. Obviously for those ner-

week) in those last few weeks of pregnancy. Of course, every

vous first time moms, being at home is the last thing you would

case is different but the goal for all is to be sure baby is head

want. In fact, studies have shown a lot of first time moms rush

down and giving mom all the relief she can get from the back

to the hospital too soon which can lead to the disappointment

aches, pubic bone pressure to even heartburn.

of being sent home because the baby wasn’t ready to deliver.

Assuming you have read every pregnancy book out there or

When you plan on getting pregnant, take along these tips with

belong to social media forums for pregnancy you will get so

you and why not see if your labor is within record time. I al-

many stories, both good and bad, but you need to listen to your

ways say, baby is going to come when they come and will take

own body and the signs it is telling you. Not very often does a

as long as they need, so if nothing else try these tips and at

woman stay home too long if she is not planning on having a

least they can make you more comfortable in the process. - mtm

Sunday

Monday 1

Tuesday

Wednesday

2

3

Thursda 4

First Day Hike: 3 Dune Challenge Indiana Dunes State Park 10am

Eat Up Wine D Downtown Val 5pm – 10p

8

8

10 Sand & Steel: Visions of our Indiana Shore Brauer Museum of Art, Valparaiso University 10am – 5pm

15

16

National Milk Day

17 “Four Score and Seven Years Ago” Theatre at the Center Munster, IN 9:30am & 11:15am

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

11

22

23

24

29

30

31

Bus Tours of the National Lakeshore Starting at 1pm

18 “Four Score and Seven Years Ago” Theatre at the Center Munster, IN 9:30am & 11:15am

“Four Score Seven Years Theatre at the Munster, I 9:30am, 11:15am

25

Janu

ay

Friday 5

Down lparaiso pm

12

Saturday 6

7

12th Night Tree Burning In the Footsteps of Main Square Park, Highland Dr. Marin Luther King Jr. 6pm Paul H. Douglas Center 10 - 11am & 2 – 3pm

13 First Friday the 13th of the Year

14 Dunes Learning Center, Chesterton Winter Open House 11am – 3pm

Make Your Own Winter Roadside Kit

W

Winter is in full swing and wreaking havoc throughout the region – causing bone chilling temperatures and hazardous road conditions. You can avoid many dangerous weather problems by planning ahead. Plan long trips carefully, listening to the radio or television for the latest weather forecasts and road conditions. If bad weather is forecast, drive only if it is absolutely necessary – and make sure you have a car emergency kit. It’s

19

and Ago” Center IN m & 1pm

20 “Four Score and Seven Years Ago” Theatre at the Center Munster, IN 9:30am, 11:15am & 1pm

21 Annual Dunes Geocache Adventure Indiana Dunes State Park 11am

one of those things you don’t think much about until it’s too late – then you’ll wish you didn’t leave home without one.

A basic roadside emergency kit should include some of the following items: • Jumper cables. Or you can carry a small, portable, lithium-ion battery with jumper cables. Usually, these batteries will also recharge computers and cell phones.

• Flares or triangle reflectors. LED flares are also an option

26

27

uary 2017

28 Long Johns on Winter Warmer Bash, Burn ‘Em Brewing 11:30am – 6:00pm

worth considering.

• A quart or more of motor oil • A gallon of coolant • First-aid kit • Blanket or space blanket • Flashlight and extra batteries • Tool kit with screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench, pocket knife • A can of tire inflator and sealant such as Fix-a-Flat • Tire pressure gauge • Paper towels • Spray bottle with washer fluid • Ice scraper (if you live in an area with snow) • Pen and paper • Granola or energy bars • Bottled water Once you have assembled your roadside emergency kit, find a good way to keep these items together in your trunk so they don’t roll around. - mtm

mtm feature

by: christina katz

Focusing on Joys Rather than Resolutio

N

New Year’s resolutions have become heavily commercial-

olution comes from the word resolve, meaning to make a

ized. Messages coming from all directions would have you

decision or determination. This January 1st, why not become

believe you are falling short as an acceptable human being

determined to resist self-criticism altogether? Take some time

in a multitude of ways. You are too poor, too unfit, too unedu-

over the New Year transition to assess everything you enjoy.

cated, too lonely, too busy, too selfish, too boring. You name

Here are a few family discussion topics that will help you

it and you need to change it, preferably starting on January

focus on building your family up rather than on tearing each

1st. But unless parents are clear that they are enough as they

other down. Because, of course, when you feel critical of

are, you risk passing this annual habit of self-recrimination on

yourself, nit-picking your kids swiftly follows. Instead, start dis-

to your children and their future children.

cussing these topics over the holidays and, as the New Year

This year, resist external messages designed to make you and

approaches, watch the never-good-enough season transform

your family feel inadequate and flip New Year’s resolutions

into the joyful ringing in of the New Year every family craves.

on their heads. Resolve to no longer let an annual holiday

Discuss what was joyful last year. What choices did family

undermine your family’s sense of wholeness and worth. Res-

members make that brought them joy? Were there some de-

mom to mom nwi | january 2017 | page 20

ons

cisions any family members made that created disappoint-

ber to make up a story about what an even more joyful year

ment? You can learn as much from what did not work as you

would look like. They can make the story as ambitious or

can from what did work, so don’t be afraid to admit to any

inspired as they like. For example, maybe one family member

mistakes you feel you may have made. A balanced year is

wants to get admitted to a college of her choice while anoth-

full of ups and downs.

er simply wants to maintain a long-time enjoyable activity.

Express feelings of joy. Have a deeper conversation about

Remain nonjudgmental. Joy is not a competition and each

choices you made last year that brought you joy. What were

person’s joy is unique to them. Each family member can tell

the smartest decisions you made from your perspective? How

the story that makes them feel the most content, and no one

did these positive choices make you feel? Would you make

else in the family should interject their ideas or expectations.

these same choices again? One of the best ways to milk more

Affirm each other’s visions. After everyone has shared, family

joy out of last year is to spend time discussing last year’s hap-

members will feel motivated to help each other. First affirm the

piest moments before the New Year rolls in.

validity of each family member’s dream. Make sure everyone

Image next year as even more joyful. Ask each family mem-

feels supported by each other. Stressing teamwork in achiev-

Resources For A More Joyous New Year Family Bucket Lists, Bring More Fun, Adventure & Camaraderie Into Every Day by Laura Krupicka Gracious Living In A New World, Finding Joy In Changing Times by Alexandra Stoddard Finding Joy: 101 Ways To Free Your Spirit And Dance With Life by Charlotte Davis Kasl Simple Abundance, Daybook Of Comfort & Joy

by Sarah Ban Breathnach

New Year’s Eve Family Share This New Year’s Eve, go ahead and try to stay up until the ball drops. You don’t have to stay up until midnight unless it makes sense for your family. If you have younger children, why not watch a television broadcast from an earlier time zone? Most likely you can stream the broadcast online, if you can’t find it on television.

After dinner, before the New Year arrives, have each family member share a bit of their joy from the previous year.

Younger kids may need help, but try to let them gather materials and present on their own as much as possible.

Emphasize how well each family member is sharing for someone their age. Notice how younger children’s enthusiasm might give older family members permission to be more effusive. Encourage the whole family to show interest and ask questions so each presenter can make new discoveries about their passions.

Here are some ideas for what each presenter might share: • Toast your joys with sparkling juice • Read a favorite book passage aloud • Teach others in the family how to do something you enjoy ing shared individual goals can help reduce sibling rivalry. Kids who are empowered to be authentic don’t have to compete with anyone. Parents can take whatever actions they can throughout the year to support each family member’s dreams. And parents should expect support for their dreams, as well. Don’t sit back and let the kids have all the fun!

You are the creator of your family traditions; you don’t have to go along with the crowd. So celebrate the New Year in positive, constructive ways that build family members up, rather than a negative, critical ways that tear family members down. When you teach your family members to use joy as a touchstone for making choices this year and every year, you give them the keys to creating personal satisfaction in their lives and you get to watch your family grow closer than ever every year. - mtm

• Play a favorite video or board game together • Perform a short skit • Prepare a favorite dish or dessert • Sing a song • Make collages of your joys • Do a dance • Show a favorite television or movie trailer • Present artwork • Make a family joy alter with photos and candles or string lights • Take the family on a guided tour using Google maps • Share a video of you and your joy in action • Daydream out loud about future, imagined joys

Author, journalist, and writing coach Christina Katz strives to live a joy-centric life, despite whatever else is going on in the world. She knows there is nothing more important to pass along to future generations.

+ ,

–

mindy’s menu

by mindy gear

anniversary meal

H

Happy 5th Anniversary Mom to Mom and Happy 2017 to our

and turns out incredibly flavorful. Creamy, cheesy au gratin pota-

readers! Is there a better way to celebrate a special occasion than

toes make the perfect side dish. This meal wouldn’t be complete

with a special dinner? No! One of my favorite fuss-free meals is a

without some sweet glazed baby carrots. Dessert is always a must

standing rib roast. The roast is rubbed with a basic seasoning mix

for any special occasion! Cupcakes are always a good idea.

Standing Rib Roast I came across this method for cooking a prime rib several years

Directions

ago. You sear the meat in the oven and then leave in sealed

Rib roast with bones (I have used up to 5#)

oven (don’t be tempted to open it!). The oven is reheated about

Rub generously with seasoning

30-40 minutes prior to serving. It is my favorite way to prepare this nice cut of meat. It is more convenient for cooking side

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place roast rib side down/fatty side

dishes if you have access to two ovens. However, I have put an

up. Roast for 1 hour. Turn off oven. Leave in oven, but do not open

additional pan in the oven with meat once the oven heated for

door for 3 hours. About 30-40 minutes prior to serving, turn oven to

the second time. Use a basic seasoning rub (mine: 1/2 cup sea

375 degrees and reheat the roast. Check temperature of roast after

salt, 1/8 cup black pepper and 1/8 cup garlic powder – this

30 minutes and continue to cook until center is as desired. Remove

will make lots, store extra in airtight container).

from oven and let rest about 10 minutes before carving.

mom to mom nwi | january 2017 | page 26

Au Gratin Potatoes Ingredients: 2-3 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, scrubbed and thinly sliced 1 medium onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 3 Tbsp butter 3 Tbsp flour 2 cups whole milk ½ cup heavy cream Sprinkle of salt/pepper 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar (or cheese of your choice) Parmesan cheese for topping

DIRECTIONS: Melt butter in large stockpot and whisk in flour continuing to whisk for 2 minutes. Add minced garlic and chopped onion. Slowly whisk 2 cups milk and ½ cup cream. Season with salt and pepper and whisk mixture over medium heat until thickened. Whisk in the cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Add potatoes and stir to coat. Pour into greased 9x13 casserole dish and cover with foil. Bake in preheated 350 degree oven for 1 hour. Remove foil and sprinkle with parmesan.

Bake additional 20-30 minutes uncovered. Let rest about 10 minutes before serving.

Sweet Glazed Baby Carrots Ingredients

DIRECTIONS

2 Tbsp unsalted butter

Melt butter in skillet over medium

16 ounce bag baby carrots

heat. Add carrots, honey, brown

2 Tbsp honey

sugar and herbs. Gently toss to com-

2 Tbsp light brown sugar

bine. Stir occasionally and cook for

2 tsp dill or thyme, fresh

about 15 minutes or until carrots are tender. Serve immediately.

Chocolate Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting Cupcakes Ingredients

Frosting Ingredients

CUPCAKE DIRECTIONS

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup unsalted butter

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 12-cup cupcake pan with

2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/8 tsp sea salt

paper liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa

¾ tsp baking powder

3 cups sifted powdered sugar

powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In a separate

½ tsp baking soda

5 tsp whole milk

bowl, stir together buttermilk and vanilla. Beat the butter and

½ tsp sea salt

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

both sugars on medium high speed until light and fluffy (about

2/3 cup buttermilk (well-shaken)

5 minutes). Reduce the speed to medium-low and add the eggs,

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

one at a time. Beat until creamy, 1-2 minutes. Slowly alternate

1 ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

adding dry and wet ingredients. Beat until just blended after

(not overly soft)

each addition. Divide batter into the 12 prepared cupcake lin-

2/3 cup sugar

ers. Bake about 18-20 minutes or until tops are dry to touch or

1/3 cup light brown sugar

toothpick comes out clean. Transfer to cooling rack and cool

2 large eggs

completely before frosting.

FROSTING DIRECTIONS Beat butter and salt about 2 minutes until fluffy. Reduce to low speed and add powdered sugar. Increase to medium and add milk and vanilla. Beat until combined about 1-2 minutes. Frost cupcakes as desired.

I

I don’t remember the exact year my daughter crossed the line from needing help getting out the door in the morning to being able to manage everything herself. But I do remember the thrill when she could finally tick each step of preparation off an imaginary list in

mtm: feature

by christina katz

get everyone out t

her head. It was like the satisfaction you feel when you invest years of practice into learning something like playing the piano, and then one day you can finally play a whole song. Only it wasn’t my accomplishment; it was hers. However, let’s not kid ourselves, every time a child becomes cheerfully autonomous, parents win, too. So, eye on the prize, parents. Here’s how to get those kids out the door smiling.

Create Enthusiasm.

Hip-hip-hooray! Getting out the door is fun. Home is nice and safe and cozy, but adventures in the world only take place on the other side of the door. What is your child enthusiastic about? Animals, nature, and friends are all waiting for them. Sensitive or introverted kids may not be all that enthused about seeing hundreds of kids at school each morning, but you can make the transition smoother by focusing on the puppies you’ll get to pat on the way or on the worms you can stop and study for a few moments next to the road. If a teacher is cherished, consider bringing a little handmade gift or sharing a cookie on Mondays. Whatever it takes to get your child to focus on a fun and enriching transition from home to school-that’s what you want to use as motivation.

Pre-planning Have your family meeting on Sunday afternoons or evenings so you can discuss the plans of the week, go over logistics, and sign any permission slips or write any checks. It’s amazing how stocking the fridge and cabinets over the weekend makes Monday mornings go much more smoothly. Sandwiches are tough to make without bread and fresh fruit and veggies are musts for growing kids each day. If you want your kids to feel prepared to face their days, you need to show them that you are prepared to face each week. Bonus: your example will pay off later when they get to middle school and high school and use Sundays to plan their weeks ahead, as well.

Set Expectations Everyone must wake up by a certain time if your family is going to have enough time to make a smooth transition from home to school. Alarm clocks must be set. Bedtimes must be adhered to and may need adjusting as the school year rolls on. Cell phones and other electronic devices must be put away at night and stay away until right before leaving the house, if needed. Otherwise, they can be available after homework is completed.

Notice Reluctance When you are trying to boost autonomy, there is no bigger frustration than a pokey child. If your child does not want to get out the

door, you may have to deal with procrastination issues. So pay attention to your child’s feelings and moods in the morning. Is he motivated to get to school and see his teacher and friends? If this is not the case in the early elementary grades, you may have bigger problems in later grades. Put on your detached detective hat, parents. Notice signals your child is giving you about dreading to go to school and discuss them during a non-threatening time, like over the weekend or while driving around town doing errands, rather than in the morning right before school. Whether the issue is a general lack of enthusiasm caused by a learning frustration or something more specific, like a taunting child or a shift in friend-

the door smiling today and every day

ships, don’t dismiss reluctance as nothing. It is more likely a signal

room. She can lean on the checklist as she learns, and so can you.

that you need to work together to put your child’s mind at ease.

Remember to update checklists annually because school responsibilities evolve and kids can manage more steps as they get older.

Use A Daily Checklist

The word checklist also becomes a kind of code word. As in, “Time

You know your child needs to put on shoes, brush her teeth, make

to add ‘Putting on deodorant’ to your morning checklist, honey.”

her lunch, and pack her backpack, but it’s going to take time be-

fore these practices becomes routine. So why not help her create

Supervise Their Focus

a handmade checklist in the order she needs to do things, to best

Some kids need assistance getting ready, depending on their age.

facilitate a smooth transition from waking to leaving for school?

However, many kids simply need help getting focused and staying

Post the checklist somewhere accessible, like on the stairway, if

focused. Mornings become a time when what siblings are doing

she is going up and down frequently, or inside the door to her

becomes riveting. That comic book on the bedroom floor seems

more appealing than packing the back pack. And if kids are older

Consider Small Rewards

and have cell phones, their ears are perked listening for incom-

If you are driving and children have devices, perhaps allow ten

ing message tones. So while you are getting yourself ready and

minutes of device time as a reward for getting out the door on time.

helping little ones who need extra help, keep an eye out for wan-

For children too young for tech, keep favorite books and toys in the

dering attention. This was my daughter’s downfall. She is dreamy

car for relaxation. Most families need a break from the intensity

by nature, and she could exit the process using nothing more than

of getting out the door once they get in the car or on their way

her imagination, fantasizing about something happening later that

to school or to the bus, so think of the door as the finish line, and

day. Fifteen minutes might go by before I realized it was way too

don’t rush or scold after crossing it if you can possibly help it. Each

quiet. So go ahead and pop your head in their rooms, parents.

time you succeed at getting out the door on time is a win. Why not

Peek in those lunch bags and back packs. You are in the supervisor

treat it as such? If you have an attitude of “Go, team!” your kids

role, and you’ll likely be making rounds for years before everyone

will internalize that and want to succeed each day.

is focused enough to manage for themselves.

Keep-it-simple Morning Checklist

Encourage Autonomy

In our house, hugs and kisses are far more important than hospi-

Whatever you do, don’t keep doing tasks for your child that she

tal corners on the bed. Consider saving room cleaning until after

can do herself. If she can tie her own shoes, patiently wait for

school, or better yet, for the weekends. You’ll buy yourselves some

her to do it. If she can make her own breakfast, compliment her

extra time each morning. And trust me, you’ll need it.

healthy choices. Building skills means doing each task many times

before it becomes routine. So, unless the bus is coming down the

Wash hands and face

road, try to resist the urge to jump in and do for her what she can

Brush teeth Get dressed

do for herself.

Eat breakfast

Make lunch

Pack backpack

Put on shoes

Expect Occasional Mistakes

Wear a warm coat

Say, “Love you!”

Say your child forgets her lunch bag one day. Old-school thinking

Goodbye hugs and kisses

suggests she should go without lunch and learn a lesson. However,

assuming it’s not a chronic issue, everyone makes mistakes. Being

quick to forgive is a far better lesson for children, as you help them

If there is one thing, author, journalist and writing coach Christina

get back on track, then resentful consequences that make them feel

Katz cannot bear, it’s days that get off to a stressful start. So she

discouraged and ashamed. Once in a while you will oversleep, or

tries to remember to breathe and not sweat the small stuff until she’s

someone will oversleep. Assuming it’s not a chronic problem, cut

out the door. - mtm

the person some slack and jump in and give them a hand with their school preparation. You want to have expectations and stick to them, but avoid treating your kids like they are in the army, unless this is a game they enjoy playing.

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