Mom to Mom, NWI -- July 2015

july 2015 | volume 4 | issue 7

momtomomnwi.com | like us on facebook

letter from the editor

nwi

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family health

brain balance achievement center

ask the doctor

proprioception & balance

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mom to mom feature

mom you should know - sarah huong vo summer fun in northwest indiana is your tween ready to be home alone?

fun & games

summer vacation pictures

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mom to mom eats

mindy’s menu - strawberries & summertime

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perspective on pets

hamsters 28

trina’s picks

the prize winner of defiance, ohio breakfast at the liberty diner

community calendar

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PUBLISHER/Managing Editor Stephanie Vega Edwards Stephanie@momtomomnwi.com Sales Team Eva Williams Nichole Odijk DeMario Ahnaliese Dunn Patricia Simms Rea Robinson Contributing Writers Dr. Sandee Clark Nichole Odijk DeMario Mindy Gear Judy Miller Amber Neace Brooke Recktenwall Trina Bobrowski Rea Robinson

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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

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summer break

There’s something about summer that seems to put a smile on my face. The warm hot sun shining down on me is something I find myself longing for!! Those rays of sun do wonders for the mind, body and soul and I believe it brings out the best in me. After the long drawn out winter we had and unseasonable cooler spring, it is SO nice to finally enjoy warmer weather!! Even though our summer got off to a soggy start, those gorgeous sun-filled days seem to make those dreary ones a thing of the past!

I don’t want to bore our readers with all the many reasons why I love summer, and all the different activities the family and I enjoy doing, but I thought I’d simply sum it up with the following definition of summer – my definition!

S pending time with family and friends U nder the stars M aking Memories M ore Memories E ating, drinking, and laughing R epeat What does SUMMER mean to you?? I’d love to hear your thoughts!! Email me at Stephanie@momtomomnwi.com and share with me your definition of SUMMER. I’ll share some of the entries in next month’s issue!

HAPPY SUMMER!

Stephanie

mtm: family health nichole odijk demario

nwi

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brain balance ach

Near lifelong friends Stephanie Hammond and Kimberly Mrak made it their goal to help Hammond’s grandson Isaac. From birth he hadn’t met milestones and at six-years-old is nonverbal.

Hours upon hours were spent pouring over research when one day Mrak came across Dr. Robert Melillo’s book, “Disconnected Kids.”

Dr. Melillo’s book shed light on Functional Disconnection Syndrome, which causes a right or left hemispheric weakness in the brain leading to various neurological disorders such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism, learning disabilities and more. Hammond felt like there was light at the end of a long, dark tunnel of unanswered questions to Isaac’s progress. But Mrak said Dr. Melillo had taken his research one step further, beginning a franchise known as Brain Balance Achievement Center.

With a strong belief in the power of Dr. Melillo’s research and a business model that has proven to help Isaac and thousands of children with similar issues they opened the Brain Balance Center of Valparaiso located at 6674 US Highway 6 in Portage, Ind.

“It’s very exciting at this point in our lives” Brain Balance Co-Owner Mrak says. “We are making a huge difference. Rather than coasting toward our retirement years, we’ve stepped it up in a big way.”

Brain Balance works to determine the root cause of a child’s struggles. They work with children aged 4 to 17. The first step for a family is to have an assessment where the child is evaluated with a three to four hour academic and sensory motor test. This will determine whether a hemispheric weakness exists. The assessment value is $300, however if scheduled simultaneously with the initial consultation costs $150. Should a hemispheric weakness be determined, a customized program is developed to address the individual’s unique circumstances.

Hammond stresses they do not focus on teaching children. She says their focus is on stimulating the weaker hemisphere of the brain enabling it to connect with the stronger hemisphere placing both hemispheres back in sync. They address ADHD; Asperger’s; learning disabilities; processing disorders; sensory integration; academic, social or

mom to mom nwi | july 2015 | page 6

hievement center behavioral issues; lack of focus; impulsivity; tantrums; trouble making friends and family/social relationship problems.

Brain Balance Center Director Mary Joe Jaime gave the example of tutoring a child with dyslexia is like pouring water on a rock. The child is unable to grasp the information yet. The Brain Balance program provides a child’s brain the ability to learn.

For parents looking to make progress during summer vacation, the staff says that is a good amount of time to begin to make a difference. Typically, they can see an improvement of approximately two years of brain development in a 12 week program completion.

Jaime explains Brain Balance is a lifestyle change as well. Their program also incorporates a nutrition plan and exercises at home to promote a healthy body inside and out.

“It’s a three-legged stool with weekly sessions, exercise and nutrition…12 weeks, three times a week, an hour each time,” she says.

Brain Balance does not require a referral and is considered non-medial and non-pharmaceutical.

“We have moms who come in and say ‘my gut is telling me something is wrong and I’ve been unable to find answers to my questions.’ Moms know when there is something wrong with their child,” Hammond says.

Jaime adds, “As a mother you know when something is off; we can help.”

The franchise is one of four in the state and more than 70 in the country. Nationwide they have assisted thousands of children annually.

Jaime says, “Brain Balance has the largest pool of research currently with sensory processing and behavioral issues. Dr. Melillo is constantly researching.”

For more information on Brain Balance of Valparaiso visit brainbalancecenters.com/locations/ Valparaiso or call 219.850.4839. They are open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:30 am to 7 pm; Tuesday and Thursday 9:30 am to 5 pm and Saturdays by appointment only. - mtm

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ask the doc. dr. sandee clark

balance is the key to life.. nwi

mom to mom nwi | june 2015 | page 14

proprioception & balance What is proprioception?

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Proprioception is the body’s ability to transmit a sense of position, analyze that information and react (consciously or unconsciously) to the stimulation with the proper movement. It is the ability to know where a body part is in space without having to look. Proprioception allows you to scratch your head without looking in the mirror or walk up a flight of stairs without having to peer at each stair.

Sometimes these reactions happen so fast they are called reflexive, like when you touch something hot and jump away.

In particular, proprioception includes balance, coordination and quickness because the body’s proprioceptors control all these factors. Proprioceptors consist of both sensory and motor nerves that send and receive impulses to and from the central nervous system from stimuli within the skin, muscles, joints and tendons.

Your proprioception capabilities can be weakened when joints are injured, such as with back sprains. Every injury has the potential to decrease your proprioception and

subsequently your balance. The most common symptom of reduced proprioception is poor balance. Poor postural stability has been found in patients with chronic neck or back pain. Good posture could be thought of as perfect spinal balance.

By increasing proprioceptive feedback to the brain your body is likely to recover faster from any injuries. Fortunately, proprioceptive ability can be improved through specific exercises and chiropractic adjustments. The exercises should be initiated as soon as possible following an injury. They include various balance exercises and using devices such as wobble boards, giant exercise balls and small trampolines for the more advanced while simply balancing on one leg for beginners does the trick.

The goal is to challenge the joints of the body and have the body react to the changing activity as fast as possible. The faster the response time to any particular movement means the body and proprioceptive systems are working better.

Here are 3 ways to help improve balance: 1. Change your Base of Support: The wider your legs are the wider your base is and the easier it is to balance.

A way to challenge your balance during any standing exercise is to gradually narrow your base of support until your feet and legs are together while performing the exercise. Be sure to pull your abs in tight and do not lean back when doing standing exercises.

2. Try it on One Leg: Once you mastered the narrow base of support, try balancing on a single leg. Start by lifting one heel (keeping your toes on the floor) while doing upper body moves. As you get better, lift that foot off the ground completely. You can also try holding the leg behind you, in front or to the side. Make sure to alternate legs to improve strength and muscle tone.

3. Close your eyes: Vision is a huge part of balance. It works with the vestibular (inner ear) and proprioceptive systems to maintain balance and prevent falls. By staring at a single focal point without moving your head or eyes, you’ll balance better. Next, close your eyes, but make sure you’re in a controlled environment. You can start off

simply by standing up tall and closing your eyes without moving. Next you can combine a narrow base of support with some one-leg balances while closing your eyes.

The stronger you get feel free to add more challenging exercises to your routine.

From a chiropractic treatment standpoint, proprioception problems can be the cause of dizziness or vertigo. The upper cervical spine is an important component of the balance system. Mechanical dysfunction of the joint, muscle and receptors in this area can often cause “cervicogenic proprioceptive vertigo” meaning you feel off-balance usually due to lack of motion from the upper part of the neck. Symptoms would be vertigo, nausea, vomiting and balance difficulties. This is usually seen with whiplash injuries after car accidents, falls or advanced spinal degeneration (arthritis).

By trying the above recommendations, really paying attention to your body and getting chiropractic adjustments you should notice improvements in balance, coordination, posture, core strength and agility.

Dr. Clark is a whole family practitioner specializing in Pediatrics, Pregnancy and Special Needs kids. A Palmer graduate, Clark offers traditional hands-on chiropractic care together with acupuncture and massage. momtomomnwi.com | like us on facebook | page 9

mtm feature nichole odijk demario

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mom you should kn

More than 15 years ago, Sarah Huong Vo was working in a Vietnam orphanage when she had a chance encounter with a man visiting his homeland with a mission group from the United States. They struck up a conversation, doing their best to overcome their language barrier. Their conversations continued for more than two years after Tay returned home to the U.S. He encouraged Sarah to immigrate in an effort to better her life and find greater opportunities.

Flash forward to today and the twosome are married with two young sons and co-own Aqua Spa Nails in Chesterton, Ind. Vo says she had always dreamed of being a business owner. When she first came to the States her first focus was acclimating herself to the culture as best she could while advancing her education. She originally began exploring a degree in finance, but a job opening in her cous-

in’s Chicago salon sparked a different interest.

She decided to pursue her passion for entrepreneurship and new found love of cosmetology. Seven years ago, Sarah and Tay branched out on their own when they opened Aqua Spa Nails.

The salon is open seven days a week (Monday through Saturday 10 am to 7 pm, Sunday 11 am to 4 pm) with a variety of services such as manicures including gel, acrylic and extensions; pedicures and waxing. They offer special event options for weddings; girls’ nights out and birthday parties for all ages. They employ eight part-time technicians. They can accommodate walk-ins and take advance appointments.

“I love to talk to people. [With my business] I get to meet so many different people and learn so much,” Vo details.

“We work really hard, a lot of time, a lot of hours. We work hard, but we play hard, too….I don’t know how we

mom to mom nwi | july 2015 | page 10

nwi

now: sarah huong vo do it sometimes, but we just make it work.”

Vo says she had several obstacles to overcome when she joined Tay here. Her advice to others new to the country is to embrace the strength of your community.

“The community is so supportive…when I first came here I spoke no English, I couldn’t drive. We don’t have family here. It’s all so different. Speak up if you need help. People are very willing to help. It can be lonely otherwise. And be patient,” Vo, who is involved in various local moms groups and organizations, says.

On a relationship level she jokingly suggests everyone to marry someone who speaks a different language.

“He speaks very little Vietnamese and I speak very little English so we never fight,” she says with a laugh.

She advises anyone with an entrepreneurial spirit to “try your best, whatever you like. It’s always hard in the beginning.”

For Vo, the initial struggles were well worth the ability to create a better life for herself, her family and the promise of a better future for her children. She detailed how even the simplest things like her sons option to play sports or take part in after school activities is night and day from what they would have experienced growing up in a Communist, third world country. Her gender would have caused numerous limitations.

“In Vietnam women do not have a role in their own lives, don’t have a voice, not even at home and aren’t able to work,” Vo explains. “…My life now is very simple, but I like it that way.”

For more information on Aqua Spa Nails, located at 761 Indian Boundary Chesterton, Ind. visit their Facebook page or call 219.395.1700. - mtm

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mtm: feature rea robinson

nwi

mom to mom nwi | june 2015 | page 22

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summer fun in northwest indiana

Northwest Indiana may have had enough of rainwater falling from the sky this summer, but taking the family kayaking may be the thing that makes us celebrate water again this season.

Though many think of kayaking as a whitewater sport or perhaps a tropic resort add-on, there are plenty of public waterways right here in Indiana to enjoy a fun float with the family. Dan Plath, founder of the Northwest Indiana Paddling Association (NWIPA), sees it as a way to bring families together to enjoy the outdoors, nature and some physical activity. As a lifelong paddler and a parent of three children, Eric, 7, Katie, 5, and Matt 3, he sees the activity as having far reaching effects on parents and children.

“I can think of few activities that are more enjoyable, impactful and universal than paddling with your family,” said Plath. “Paddling is great for everyone from toddlers to 90+ year old people. There is nobody with iPads, Leap Frogs, cell phones or any other electronic gadget that seems to consume most kids and adults these days. It is a great way to all be in the moment together while on the water, learning about our surroundings and not having distractions.”

“It’s also a great place to foster communication as well,” he said. “I hear what is going on in my kids’ lives by having them in a kayak or canoe with me. Same with my wife Vicky and I. Being on the water seems to erase away the daily worries and is a chance for a couple of hours during the day to focus on the beauty of nature and enjoy the company of your family.”

Unlike many other new sports or adventures, getting started does not have to be a big investment. NWIPA, as a non-profit organization, provides loaner kayaks and canoes at their organized paddling events. Participation in these events is by registration and a requested donation, generally $5-$10. Parents can paddle with their younger children in the same boat. NWIPA hosts several signature events, including the Trail Creek Fun Float in Michican City last month, which brought its participants from the harbor to as far as Friendship Gardens. Paddlers also enjoyed a waterside luau upon

their return. Earlier this spring, the group led an outing on the Little Calumet River for their Bald Eagle Paddle, where lucky participants are able to see the nesting eagles that have returned to our area after many years without eagles. NWIPA is also a featured presence at the Hobart Water Awareness Festival, where interested new-to-paddling attendees can try out various types of kayaks, and experienced paddlers can take a longer guided tour around Lake George. The Everglades of the North paddle will take place on July 25, on the Kankakee River, and a paddle on the still waters of Robinson Lake is scheduled for August 2. Autumn paddles continue the fun beyond summer with the Saugany Lake Jellyfish Paddle in Rolling Prairie and the Kankakee River Sandhill Cranes paddle, which takes participants near the Jasper-Pulaski sand hill cranes migration grounds.

Of course, there is plenty of opportunity to paddle the public waters of Indiana independently. A map on the NWIPA website plots some of the prime paddling waters, including tips and tidbits of information, such as nearby restaurants, parking, camping, restrooms and special skills needed, such as whitewater experience.

“The best way to get started is to come out to one of the NWIPA events and use one of our 12 kayaks and 6 canoes to see if you’d like to get involved before going out and laying down any money,” said Plath.

Another excellent way to begin pursuit of this hobby is to attend an informational session as they are announce or to register for Introduction to Kayaking or Introduction to Canoeing classes, taught by ACA certified instructors on Robinson Lake in Hobart. Classes are $35 for NWIPA members and $50 for non-members. Promoting safe paddling is part of the NWIPA’s mission and the use of life preservers and other basic safety precautions are essential and required on all organized paddles. If weather and water conditions are ever unsafe, events are rescheduled or cancelled.

For more information on paddling opportunities through NWIPA and its partners, visit NWIPA.org. - mtm

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mtm: feature judy m. miller

nwi

is your tween ready to be home alone?

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Need to run a few errands? Get out of the house for a while for some mental health time or exercise?

Around the time your child reaches the pre-tween (tween) years, staying home alone may be an option. But, how do you know if your child is ready? The following points will help you determine if your child is equipped to do so:

Your tween indicates they want to stay home alone Your child is seeking more independence and has asked you to leave him by himself. He is not anxious when you are gone and he can keep himself occupied safely.

Your tween follows your directions & rules Your child has shown you that he can follow your expectations, even when you are not present. You’ve witnessed your child making good choices without your input. He adheres to the guidelines you have set in place about having a friend over, watching TV or a movie, playing video games, and time spent outdoors.

Your tween is reliable and self-sufficient Daily chores are done with little to no reminders. Your child can safely prepare simple snacks when he is hungry. He knows how to properly use the microwave and toaster. You can rely on him to use only the appliances you’ve agreed to let him use.

Your tween uses the phone properly Your child answers the phone appropriately. He recognizes why it is all right to fib in this instance-when you are away from the house-saying you are unavailable, and how to take a message correctly.

Your tween understands safety He is familiar with basic first-aid and knows what to do in case of a fire or other emergency. He knows to call 911 and other emergency numbers if necessary. He knows what he can and cannot do when you are not at home.

He understands that knives cannot be used without your supervision. He knows not to open the door while you are gone and what neighbors to call or go to if he needs help.

He knows the “safe” meeting spot, to find you or be found, in case anything should happen. He knows where the flashlights and extra batteries are.

Although your child may know the emergency numbers, keep a list of emergency contacts and numbers in an easy to view place. Make sure all of your numbers are there as well. When panic or worry sets in the brain can flood and we struggle to remember what we do know.

Have a simple chart of first aid tips close to the emergency contacts and numbers. (In our home a brightly binder labeled “EMERGENCY,” with our address and home phone number below, it holds contacts, emergency numbers, and basic first-aid procedures. This binder remains by the kitchen phone and comes in handy for any babysitter we hire.)

Begin slowly, leaving him alone for five to ten minutes the first few times and build from there. What else can you do to help your tween?

Give him something to do to structure his time. This helps alone time pass quickly Check in with your tween while you are gone. Call to see if he is comfortable, he has any questions, and also to keep him updated on when you will arrive back home. This is an exciting time for your tween as he establishes more independence, with your confidence that he will do well.

Further Resources for Parents While Safekids recommends that all children reach the age of 12 before being left alone at home, the organization also recognizes that every child is different and encourages parents to use their own discretion.

Few states in the U.S. have regulations regarding the age a child must be before he or she can be legally left home alone. Latchkey-Kids provides this information and links to all states.

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Additional questions parents should know the answers to before making the decision to leave their tweens at home alone Is your neighborhood a safe one? Do you have neighbors that your child knows and trusts, people he can turn to if he needs help?

Is your child truthful with you? Does he regularly confide in you? Does he share his concerns and problems with you?

Does your child demonstrate good decision-making and judgment? Does your child understand basic safety procedures?

Will he make the decision of safety first?

Can your child tell time? Can he calmly provide your home phone number and address and give directions to your house in case of emergency?

Does your child know your cellphone number?

Can your child lock and unlock your windows and doors?

Does your child know the garage door code and/or alarm system code and password, if this applies?

Does your child stay calm when the unexpected happens?

Have you made “dry runs” with your child, allowing him to practice being home alone?

Do you have more than one child you will leave home alone?

Can they resolve their conflicts without physical altercations and adult intervention? - mtm

Judy M. Miller, a mother of four, is training her tween son on how to be safely home alone. She is a Certified Gottman Educator and the author of What To Expect From Your Adopted Tween and Writing to Heal Adoption Grief: Making Connections & Moving Forward.

Summer is finally here!! Here’s how region kids have been enjoying the dog days of summer!

Alexandra, 6

Carinne 12 Lizzie 7 James 5

Alexis, 4

Cody, 8

Ali, 9

Emilee 12, Brayden 5, Skyler 8, Gavin 3

Finley, 2

Jessa, 1

Peyton, 7

Kayla, 13

Richella, 2

Samantha, 8

Sophia 7 and Jaiden 10

Keegan, 6

Brooklyn, 2

Brynn, 8

Ariana 8, Vanessa 5 and Malina 3

Jayne 4, Bernie 2

Finley, 16 months

Jackson, 9

Gunner, 6

Noah, 2

Tommy, 1 Xander, 5

Nick 10, Makenzie 8

Travis 4, Jake 8

Zarek, 7

mindy’s menu mindy gear

nwi

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strawberries & summertime

Summer is here and I feel like we are trying to soak up

short and I find that we usually pick way more than we

every minute of fun. Strawberry picking is a great way to

need. Freezing them for future use is a great idea. Canning

spend time with family and friends. If you love fresh straw-

jam or making freezer jam is also a great use for extra

berries and don’t have time to pick your own, farmer’s mar-

strawberries. I am sharing a couple of my favorite straw-

kets are a great place to find fresh-picked strawberries - I

berry recipes. Hopefully you still have a few strawberries

love using fresh strawberries! Strawberry season is rather

left to try these great recipes

mom to mom nwi | july 2015 | page 20

Strawberry Jam

I would like to start by saying that I am not a canning expert. The book, Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving was a great help for tips and tricks. Not sure if you want to commit to purchasing all the necessary supplies for canning? I purchased a Ball Home Canning Discovery Kit. It comes with 3 jars and a special basket that you can use in a large stockpot. The cost is around $10 (Amazon: $9.78). It was perfect for canning a small batch of jam. This jam recipe fills the 3 jars that come with the set. Jam also does not require using fruit pectin. Using pectin will help give you a more reliable consistency. However, it will taste great with or without it. I was concerned about the amount of sugar in most jam recipes. Ripe strawberries are

very flavorful and delicious; I hate covering up their flavor with lots of added sugar. Next time I will try to substitute with raw honey and see how it turns out.

It was surprising how easy this was and the jam is amazing!

INGREDENTS 8 Cups Strawberries (approximately) | 2 Lemons 4-5 Cups Sugar | ½ Tbsp Butter 1 box Powdered Fruit Pectin (Sure-Jell)

Directions Hull and mash the strawberries. Mash with a potato masher in small batches on a cookie sheet or toss them in the food processor for a minute or so for a smoother consistency. Your 8 cups of whole strawberries should become about 5 cups once they are mashed or pureed.

Put strawberries into a pot and add lemon juice from two lemons (about 4 tablespoons). I also added a little lemon zest. Stir in pectin until dissolved. (I purchased a container of Ball brand powdered pectin instead of the Sure-Jell box and used 5 tablespoons). Add the butter to help avoid the mixture foaming (as you will need to scrape off any foam that bubbles up). Heat mixture and gently stir as you bring it to a rolling boil. Pour in sugar (have your sugar pre-measured and ready to pour in all at once). Stir it together and turn up the heat to achieve a heavy boil. Keep stirring and boil for 1 minute. Turn off heat and remove foam (if there is any). Now you are ready to can your jam.

Follow the instructions in the canning kit to finish your jam. Here is a VERY brief rundown: Wash the jars in hot, soapy water. Rinse well and place in the canning basket (in pan). Cover with water and bring to a simmer (not boil). Place the center lids (the ones that seal to jar, not the outside lids that screw on) in a separate pan covered in water and bring them to a simmer (not boil). When jam is finished, remove the jars from simmering water (empty and water in the jar, but don’t dry it). Fill jar with jam and leave about a ½-1” at the top. Run a knife along the inside of jar to remove any air bubbles. Wipe outside edge with a damp rag to remove any spilled jam. Using a magnet or tongs, remove a lid from simmering water; center lid on jar then screw outside ring to hold secure. Place filled jars back into basket. Make sure water covers jars and bring to a boil. Boil 10 minutes. Turn heat off and leave jars in water for 5 minutes before removing. Place on towel in out of way place to cool. Allow 24 hours to seal properly and you should hear them pop as they do. Any jars that do not properly seal, place in refrigerator for use.

Unsealed jam may be kept in the refrigerator for 3 weeks. If you seal the jars through hot water canning, they have a 1 year shelf life.

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Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Directions For crust: Preheat oven to 350°. Place cookies in food processor and pulse until crumbs form. Add melted butter and pulse again until the butter is blended. Press crumbs into a 9x13 pan (either grease pan or use parchment paper for easy removal).

Bake for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.

Turn oven to 325°.

These dessert bars are delicious. I make the crust from a box of Trefoil Girl Scout cookies (shortbread cookies). You can easily substitute graham crackers, vanilla sandwich cookies or a different crispy shortbread cookie. The strawberry topping is easy to make and worth it!

INGREDENTS 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted About 2 dozen Trefoils – 1 box (shortbread cookies) 1 rounded cup fresh strawberries, cut up | 1 Tbsp sugar | 1 tsp almond extract 2 tsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed | 1 tsp cornstarch 2 – 8 ounce cream cheese, softened | 2/3 cup sour cream 2/3 cup sugar | 1 tsp vanilla extract | 2 eggs

Strawberry topping: In either blender or food processor, blend strawberries until smooth. Pour into saucepan, add 1 tablespoon sugar and 1 teaspoon almond extract. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to simmer/barely boiling about 10-15 minutes.

Mixture should begin to thicken. Mix lemon juice and cornstarch together and pour into strawberry mixture. Cook an additional minute. Remove from heat.

Cheesecake: While the topping is cooking, blend together the cheesecake. In a mixing bowl, use beaters to soften the cream cheese (to avoid a lumpy batter). Add the remaining ingredients one at a time, beating until combined. Spread onto crust evenly. Pour strawberry topping over the cream cheese mixture. Bake at 325° for 35-40 minutes. The center should jiggle slightly. Cool on a wire rack and then refrigerate for 3 hours before cutting into squares. Enjoy!

Strawberry Salsa

This simple fruit salsa can be served with cinnamon chips or graham crackers. It also can be served over grilled chicken with steamed rice. Fresh chopped pineapple or other berries could also be added or substituted. Simple and light, it makes for great picnic food.

INGREDENTS 2 kiwi, peeled and diced 2 golden delicious apples, peeled and diced 1 pound strawberries, cleaned and diced 2 Tbsp white sugar (more or less to taste) 1 Tbsp brown sugar (more or less to taste) Juice of 1 lemon, Pinch of lemon zest, if desired

Directions Mix well and refrigerate about 15 minutes.

Serve with cinnamon pita chips

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! mom to mom nwi | july 2015 | page 22

Fruit Leather

I’m not sure why I LOVE these, but I do. They taste great and like fresh strawberries. There isn’t much to the prep, just lots of patience during the cooking time. Definitely worth the wait and your house will smell great during the cooking process too.

INGREDENTS 1 pound strawberries, washed and hulls removed 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice ¼ cup sugar, more/less to taste – honey can be used as a substitute

Directions Puree strawberries in blender or food processor for 1 minute or until smooth. Pour into saucepan and stir in lemon juice and sugar (add sugar a tablespoon or so at a time and sweeten to taste). Turn heat on medium and cook about 10-15 minutes until thick and bubbly. You want as much moisture cooked out as possible. Pour into a pan lined with parchment because this will be a sticky mess otherwise.

Spread the mixture to be 1/8” thick, approximately. You don’t want to see the paper thru the mixture. It will shrink a little as it dehydrates and will be too thin when finished.

Cook in a 200° or less oven to dehydrate the mixture. Oven should be on the lowest possible temperature. This will take 4 hours approximately. The fruit should be a little tacky, not sticky and easily peel from the parchment paper. Cool and cut into strips or desired shapes. Roll with wax paper or parchment and store in an airtight container.

mtm: trina’s picks trina bobrowski

the prize winner of defiance, ohio by: terry ryan Also made into a major motion picture starring Julianne Moore

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This month I want you to jump back in time with me to an era of poodle skirts, Tupperware parties and contesting.

During

the 1950’s and 60’s contesting was very popular amongst housewives. Writing a catchy phrase or jingle for everyday items could win you cash or household prizes, even shopping sprees. This biography about Evelyn Ryan, a mother of six sons and four daughters will make you love her just as much as her daughter Terry Ryan, who wrote the book in her mother’s honor.

Evelyn Ryan had a large family to feed and her alcoholic husband spent most of his paycheck at the liquor store, leaving very little left for his family. Contesting kept this family from living out on the street. All of the family’s appliances were won by Evelyn through contesting, and usually just in the nick of time. A toaster would die and its replacement would soon arrive. This amazing mother also won trips, a grocery store shopping spree - worth over $3000 dollars today- and the money to keep the bank from foreclosing on her home. She even wrote her favorite girdle company so many times; they sent her all the stock they had left after they stopped making that line.

The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio is such an endearing story.

Terry Ryan has captured her mother’s spirit and determination, by adding many of her actual jingles and catch phrases that won them so many prizes. The book also has several family photos as well. Follow Evelyn on her journey to keep her family surviving in a situation that was bleak and some how coming out on the other end with a cheery disposition. After reading this book I guarantee, Mom’s will walk a little taller knowing a woman like this was part of our group.

If you have a chance to watch the movie, which I highly recommend, some of the clothing that Julianne Moore wore was actually from Evelyn Ryan’s wardrobe! Try and figure out which pieces were hers. - mtm

perspective on pets rea robinson

Habitat and Care Requirements: All hamsters require a home large enough for a food dish, water bottle and exercise wheel, as well as room to move about freely. Premade cages with attached tunnels and other accessories are lots of fun for hamsters, but sometimes more time consuming to clean. They also offer less ventilation, so when using these cages, ensure that they are opened to get airflow through them while you have your hamster out to play. An exercise wheel is not an option but a requirement for hamsters - they have lots of energy and an instinctual need to run. In the wild, these little guys can travel 8 miles in one day! They also instinctively burrow, so their bedding should be soft and deep to allow this. An excellent bedding is Carefresh, which is a soft paper bedding; however fine bedding of other types are also available. This burrowing/nesting instinct is also satisfied by providing small hideouts, premade or just small cardboard boxes and tubes. Hamsters should be fed a fortified diet, easily found in all pet stores. They thrive best when provided with ad-

nwi

ditional fresh snacks, including fruits and vegetables, proteins

hamsters

such as cheeses and hard boiled eggs, and even hay, such as

Many people, young and old, have a strong attachment to the

expectancy, they can prove to be an excellent starter pet for a

hamsters they had as a childhood pet. And it’s not suprising

child...or nostalgic low-care pet for an adult! - mtm

M

why. Hamsters can make a nearly ideal pet, especially the variety called Winter White dwarf hamsters. Many people are familiar with the larger species; however, this particular dwarf species has some outstanding qualities that set it apart.

The species name is, perhaps, a bit deceptive at first, as these dwarf hamsters actually come in a variety of colors, from light gray to beige to black and even two-toned, but always with a dark stripe down its back. The name references their ability in nature to camouflage to a white color in the winter. They are also sometimes referred to as the Siberian hamster. The Winter White grows to a length of about four inches. Unlike some other hamster species, this one tends to be particularly friendly and less “nippy.” Other dwarf species, such as the Roborovski hamster, are beautiful but shy and exceptionally quick, making handling difficult. Winter whites are generally happy to be handled and look forward to a visit from their owner! Additionally, the Winter White can be kept in a colony of all females or all females with one male. Males cannot be kept together due to territorial behavior. Of course, keeping a colony of females with a male would certainly have the guaranteed effect of several litters of pups; unless you plan to have your male neutered, a group of females is the best choice.

timothy or alfalfa.

Though they are a short-lived pet, at only about 2 years life

mtm: trina’s picks trina bobrowski

Breakfast at the Liberty Diner by: Daniel Kirk

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Why not celebrate this Fourth of July with a wonderful story about a boy, a diner and a President! This is such a marvelous story to share with your children this month, not only does is showcase one of America’s greatest Presidents, the diner’s heyday, and beautiful Art Deco styled illustrations, it also tells a story of a little boy who overcomes a major disability.

Mrs. Potter is headed to California with her baby George and young son Bobby. On their way they stop to meet up with Uncle Angelo at the Liberty Diner for breakfast. A whole new world opens up to Bobby at this little diner. Bobby is introduced to diner lingo, a kind of American verbal slang used by cooks and chefs in diners. While waiting for Uncle Angelo to show up, there are many conversations at the diner pertaining to a surprise visitor coming to town. While Mrs. Potter, Bobby and George ate their breakfast, a man walked in behind an explosion of flashbulbs, this man was President Franklin D. Roosevelt. That day Bobby received some advice from the President that he would treasure forever, advice to a little boy who shared the same disability as one of the greatest men of the twenty-first century.

Daniel Kirk has written such an inspiring story that will make your heart melt and ooze patriotism. Breakfast At The Liberty Diner has been beautifully illustrated by Margaret Wise Brown, every page

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displays Art Deco oil painted scenes from 1940’s life.

Her attention to detail at the Liberty Diner is astonishing, it just makes you encapsu-

p: 219.973.5138 e: stephanie@momtomomnwi.com

late that forgotten era of those little Mom and Pop owned diners. - mtm

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community calendar

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4th of July Firework Schedule

Splash Pads and Swimming Pools:

Friday, July 3 Cedar Lake: Summerfest at the Lakefront at 9:30pm (Fireworks also on July 2) Hebron: Hebron High School at dusk Merrillville: Hidden Lake Park at 9:00pm Munster: Centennial Park at 9:00pm Portage: Trumble Field at Willowcreek Middle School at dusk Schererville: Rohrman Park at dusk Whiting: Whiting Lakefront Park Pavilion at 10:00pm

CROWN POINT Hub Municipal Pool - 1000 E South St Hours: 11 am to 6 pm Daily (Summer Months) Cost Information (Daily Rate): Ages 3 & Under: Crown Point Resident $2; Non-Resident $5 Ages 4-12: Crown Point Resident $4; Non-Resident $8 Ages 13-61: Crown Point Resident $6; Non-Resident $10 Ages 62 & Up: Free Cost Information (Season Passes): Individual: Crown Point Resident $85; Non-Resident $135 VIP: Crown Point Resident $175; Non-Resident $250 Additional Guest: Crown Point Resident $25; Non-Resident $35 Includes 5 membership cards

Wednesday, July 1 Chesterton: Indiana Dunes Lakefront at 9:15pm (time is estimated)

Saturday, July 4 Chesterton: Hawthorne Park at dusk Crown Point: Lake County Fair Grounds at dusk Gary: Market City Flea Market at dusk Hammond: The Pavilion at Wolf Lake at dusk Highland: Homestead Park at 9:00pm Hobart: Festival Park at dusk Lake Station: Riverview Park at dusk LaPorte: LaPorte County Fairground at 9:30pm Michigan City: Washington Park Marina at dusk Valparaiso: Thomas Jefferson Middle School at 9:15pm

The following splash pads and pools are listed alphabetically by city.

Always check with location to confirm times and dates.

EAST CHICAGO East Chicago Community Pool - Washington Park Kosciuszko Park - Goodman Park Pools open the beginning of June - call for specific date Hours: Closed Monday | Tue-Sat - 1 pm to 7 pm | Sun – 1 pm to 5 pm Cost Information: $10 Season Pass (Residents only) $5 Daily Pass (Residents/Non-Residents)

Do you have an event you’d like to add to our community calendar? Send an email to Stephanie@momtomomnwi.com by the 15 of the month. mom to mom nwi | july 2015 | page 32

HAMMOND Wolf Lake Aquatic Play Center - Hammond Port Authority 701 Casino Center Drive Splash Pad with sprinklers and a Dump Bucket Hours: 90-Minute Sessions Starting at 10 am Sessions are at 10 am, Noon, 2 pm, 4 pm and 6 pm Rates for Monday through Thursday: Residents of Hammond & Whiting: $1 Other IN Residents: $2 | Out of State: $3 Rates for Friday, Saturday & Sunday Residents of Hammond & Whiting: $2 Other Indiana Residents: $3 Out of State: $4 Private Parties are available

Age 3- Older: Resident $25 | Non-Resident $50 Daily Admission Fees 2yrs & Under Free | Age 3- Adult: Resident $3 | Non-resident $6 Seniors 62 & up: Resident $2 | Non-resident $4 Group Rate (15+): Resident $2/ea | Non-resdient $4/ea.

Must show proof of residency.

Any child under the age of 8yr.must be accompanied by an adult.

There are 4 pool locations- Pulaski (Sheffield & 137th Street), Edison (Madison & Mulberry), King (Highland & Tapper), & Hessville (173rd & Kennedy) Pools open June 6 Season Passes must be purchased; no daily rates.

Passes may be purchased at the following locations: The Hammond Civic Center - 5825 Sohl Avenue Open Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 5:30 pm The Jean Shepherd Community Center - 3031 Mahoney Drive Open Mon to Fri | 7am to 9pm Saturday | 9am to 4pm Pool Hours: Closed on Mondays Tues-Sun | 11am – 7pm Special packages and visitor punch cards available to Hammond residents.

MICHIGAN CITY Oasis Splash Pad - 115 Lake Shore Drive Hours: 10 am to Noon | 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm | 3 pm to 5 pm Open through Labor Day The Oasis will be open every day WEATHER PERMITTING call ahead 219.873.1506 Cost Information: Michigan City Resident $2 per person per session Indiana Resident $4 per person per session Out of State $6 per person per session The Oasis will provide (3) 2-hour sessions each day.

HIGHLAND Wicker Park Memorial Splash Pad - 8554 Indianapolis Blvd.

Hours: 10:30am - 11:30am | 11:45am - 12:45pm | 1pm - 2pm 2:15pm - 3:15pm | 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm | 4:45 pm - 5:45 pm Daily during the summer months.

Cost Information-Weekday Prices: In township - $1 | Out of township - $2 | Out of state - $3 Cost Information-Weekend Prices: In township - $2 | Out of township - $3 | Out of state - $4 Pricing is per session and ID is required. Cash Only HOBART Hobart Community Pool - 810 W. 10th St. Hours (Weather Permitting) Monday – Friday: 11 am - 6 pm | Weekends: Noon - 5 pm Cost Information (Day Pass Rates): Ages 3 and Under: Residents $2; Non-Resident $6 Ages 4 to Adult: Resident $4: Non-Resident $6 Ages 62 and Over: Resident $2; Non-Resident $6 Cost Information (Season Pass Rates): Individual: $60 | Couple: $110 | Family: $175 | Senior, Over 62: $50 Senior Couple, Over 62: $100 | Nonresident Family: $300 Family Season Passes have a maximum of 5 people - There is a charge of $25 for each person after the 5th LAKE STATION Lake Station’s Riverview Water Park - 2701 Ripley St. Pool Opens First week of June (call for exact date) Regular Hours: Monday - Sunday 11:30 am to 5:30 pm Cost Information: 10 Time Pass |2yrs & under Free

MERRILLVILLE Ross Pool - 5311 Tyler St Hours: Noon to 6pm | daily starting June 13 through August 19 Saturday & Sunday: August 23rd through Labor Day Cost: Adult: Resident $5 | Non-Resident $10 Child (12 & under): Resident $3 | Non-Resident $6

MUNSTER Munster Pool - 8837 Calumet Avenue Regular Season Hours now through August 12 Hours: Monday - Friday 11 am to 8 pm Saturday 11 am to 6 pm | Sunday 1 pm to 6 pm Cost Information (Daily Passes): Ages 2 & Under: Free -Children & Adults: Munster Resident $7; Non-Resident $10 Ages 65 & Up: Munster Resident $5; Non-Resident $8 After 4 pm: Munster Resident $5; Non-Resident $8 VALPARAISO Central Park Plaza Splash Pad - 68 Lafayette Street Hours: Open 10 am to 7pm Daily (Mid-May to Mid-Oct) Cost Information: Free

Farmers Markets

The following farmers markets are listed alphabetically by city. Always check with event organizers to confirm dates.

CHESTERTON - 220 Broadway (Third St. and Broadway) Open on Saturdays now through October 25 from 8 am to 2 pm. For more information call 219.926.5513.

CROWN POINT -South Main Street (between Hack Court/Walnut) June 6 through September 26 on Saturdays from 8 am to 1 pm. For more information call 219.662.3290.

DEMOTTE - 112 Carnation Street SE (Spencer Park) Open Wednesdays now through August 12 from 11 am – 5 pm. For more information, call 219.964.8626.

GRIFFITH – 600 N. Broad Street (Central Park) Open on Fridays now through September from 3 pm to 9 pm with music from 6 pm to 9 pm. For more information, call 219.484.6697.

MUNSTER – 1005 Ridge Road (Munster Town Hall) Open every Sunday now through October 11 from 8 am to 2 pm. For more information, call 219.836.7275.

HAMMOND – 7299 Kennedy Avenue (Hessville Park) Open on Sundays now through September from 10 am to 3 pm. For more information, call 219.844.9976.

PORTAGE - 2100 Willowcreek Road (Woodland Park) June 7 through August 30 on Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm. For more information, call 219.764.5736.

HIGHLAND - 3001 Ridge Road (Main Square Park) June 6 through October 17 on Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm. For more information call 219.838.0114.

RENSSELAER - 115 W. Washington St (Jasper County Courthouse) July 7 through August 25 on Tuesdays from 4 pm to 6 pm and Saturdays from 7:30am-11:30am. For more information, call 219.866.7940.

HOBART - 111 E. Old Ridge Road (Festival Park) June 4 through September 3 on Thrusdays from 3 pm to 8:30pm. For more information, call 219.942.4511.

SCHERERVILLE - 1722 S. Park Ave. (Redar Park) Open on Saturdays now through September 17 from 3 pm to 8 pm. For more information, call 219.865.5530.

LAPORTE - Corner of Monroe & Lincolnway (City Parking Lot) Open on Saturdays now through October from 8 am to 1 pm. For more information, call 219.448.1674.

ST. JOHN - 9660 Wicker Avenue (Parking lot of Community Outpatient Center) Open every Sunday now through October 25 on Sundays from 8 am to 1 pm. For more information, call 219.365.6465.

LOWELL - 1 Mill Street & 2 E. Commercial Avenue Open Saturdays now through October from 9 am to 2 pm. For more information, call 219.545.4348 OR 219.218.3407.

MICHIGAN CITY - 8th and Washington Street Open Saturdays now through October from 8 am to 1 pm. For more information, call 219.210.2055.

MILLER BEACH - 667 S. Lake Street Open every Sunday now through September 27 from 10 am to 3 pm.

For more information, email market@millerbeacharts.org

VALPARAISO – 68 Lafayette Street (Central Park Plaza Market) June 2 through October 13 on Tuesdays from 8 am to 2 pm and Saturdays from 8 am to noon. For more information, call 219.464.8332.

WHITING - 1443 119th Street (In front of City Hall) Open on the third Thursday of every month now through September from 5pm to 8 pm and every Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm. For more information call 219-659-0292.

WINFIELD – 10645 Randolph Street (Winfield Town Hall) July 8 through September 16 on Wednesdays from 3 pm to 7pm.