March 2016 | Volume 5 | Issue3
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PUBLISHER/Managing Editor Stephanie Vega Edwards Stephanie@momtomomnwi.com
letter from the editor
mom to mom feature
mom you should know: dawn buckley room-by-room cleaning kids eat free date night: meditrina market café internet safety
mtm: family health
runnin’ with the irish
ask the doctor
there’s no difference
mom to mom eats
mindy’s menu - march madness
trina’s picks
the land of caring bou the girl on the train
mtm: education
saint michael’s school forest ridge academy
5 8 16 20 22 24 10 14
26 30 32 6 12
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ON THE COVER
on the Cover: Addison & Cayla Buckley Photography By: Amanda Rose Photography
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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
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letter from the editor stephanie vega edwards
Y
winter mayhem
You can tell when winter has really set in at my house – the natives start to get restless, especially ME! I love to be outside doing just about anything – but when I’m forced to be in because of cold temps I find that I often spread myself a little too thin. I love to be involved with activities – so in the winter I sign up for a few more. Organize two class parties – check! Plan an outing for the kiddos and their friends – check! Sleepovers upon sleepovers – check! And while I love the running around and the feeling of constantly being busy, this winter I’ve been thrown another task – toilet training!! I have been dreading this for two years! It’s funny - when you have another kid you kind of forget about those obstacles you had to overcome, like toilet training. I read all the books, got advice from friends, but it was still difficult. Both of my big girls didn’t have that “aha” moment until they hit 3 – I had to just let them tell me when they were ready. But with my third go at it, I was more determined than ever to get this 2 ½ year old toilet trained – especially because she was so interested. This year I started sending my youngest to day care and I was shocked when they told me she wanted to go on the potty – and actually went! I immediately ran home and pulled out our potty chair; she gave me a look like I was crazy! For a few weeks, she would go intermittently but really wasn’t interested. I thought, “I don’t have time for this toilet training business, I’m WAY too busy.” And then, just when I decided not to push the subject and focus on my other tasks at hand it happened. Dani had her “aha” moment. She asked to wear her pull-up to daycare and I figured, “why not?” Success –her pull-up was dry! I was so excited, proud, and relieved. And then it hit me – I was about to get to know every public bathroom from Lake to Laporte County! I really don’t have time for that!! Take Care,
Stephanie
mtm: education nichole odijk demario
saint micha
S
Since the early 1900s, St. Michael School, an educational
demics, athletics and the arts. More so, she says, St. Michael
ministry of St. Michael’s Parish, has been educating children
School stands outs for its dedication to molding the whole child
throughout the Region. The preschool through eighth grade
in a “loving, safe and secure environment.”
school is located just off of Route 30 in Schererville, Ind.
“We are dedicated to helping our students grow in their faith,
Principal Colleen Kennedy has been at the helm for one year.
have a strong sense of value, help others in need in the commu-
She was first recruited as a teacher by the school’s previous
nity and to have success in their academic careers through our
principal knowing she would eventually be asked to take the
commitment to their education,” Kennedy says. “…We want
reigns. Prior to joining St. Michael’s administration, she had
them to be successful in life. We wan to build strong minds and
more than a decade of experience as a Catholic school prin-
bodies and for our students to leave St. Michael School know-
cipal and attended Catholic schools from elementary school
ing they can conquer the world.”
through college.
Jen Poskin’s daughters are in second grade and preschool at
Kennedy says what first struck her about St. Michael School was
the school.
the family-oriented environment where parents are warm and
“I strongly believe in the benefits of a Catholic education, as
welcoming. Parents along with the student body and faculty
I was educated in Catholic schools from first grade through
meld together like a family. It’s a school environment that cele-
high school. When I first set foot inside St. Michael School, it
brates accomplishments at all levels in all areas including aca-
felt like home to me. I see our students living their faith daily.
mom to mom nwi | march 2016 | page 6
nwi
ael’s school My husband and I wanted to be a part of a community of other
says she is often asked how much does it cost to send her chil-
families who have the same values we do. I love that our teach-
dren to a parochial school to which she says, “Not nearly as
ers at St. Michael are willing and able to nurture not only my
much as it’s worth. Yes, it is a sacrifice, but we see the value we
children’s minds, but their hearts and souls as well,” Poskin of
get in return every day. To a parent who is contemplating send-
Schererville, Ind. says.
ing their child to St. Michael, I would say, come and see us…
Kennedy says her focus for the 2015-2016 school year has
Come and check us out and see if the school feels like home to
been to get to know the more than 250 students well, see all the
you as well. It is really an amazing community to be a part of…
great things that go on in the classroom and witness the love
And if finances are the only thing holding you back, definitely
of learning developing in the building. She says in cooperation
come and talk to us. There are several different avenues to as-
with the school’s advisory board she is constantly accessing
sist; we can share with you all the options available.”
how St. Michael School can play to its strengths and regularly
St. Michael will be hosting a free open house on Sunday, April
analyze ways to continue to improve.
10 from 11 am to 12:30 pm that includes refreshments for po-
She says she understands funding a Catholic education is a
tential new students and their families. - mtm
sacrifice for many families, but stresses they are committed to helping families afford a Catholic education. As a parent paying for two children in Catholic school, Poskin
mtm: feature nichole odijk demario
nwi
N
mom you should know: dawn buckley
Nearly eight years ago Dawn Buckley was a first time mother,
Among this annual cele-
panic-stricken when she was rushed to the hospital six weeks
bration, they host a variety
early with pre-term labor that led to an emergency c-section.
of other events including
Her panic turned to shock when she and her husband learned
fundraisers,
their daughter Addison had Down syndrome.
banquet where each child
“I didn’t know what to expect. I had so many questions. I felt
receives an award based
like it was my fault, like I did something wrong…it took me a
off an individual accom-
while to get adjusted to our new path,” Buckley says.
plishment during the past
According to the National Down Syndrome Society, one in
year, weekly tutoring and
every 691 babies in the United States is born with Down syn-
group speech therapy of-
drome or about 6,000 each year. Approximately 400,000
ferings and more.
people are living with Down syndrome in the United States
This April, they will be open-
alone. It is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condi-
ing the doors to their new
tion. It occurs in people of all races and economic levels.
facility. The 5,000-square-
She says she is certain she was also grappling with a level of
foot space is in downtown
depression at that time. The turning point for her came when
Highland in the lower level
she met local family the Longos whose daughter Olivia also
of Milestone Therapy who
has Down syndrome.
is also DSA’s therapy part-
“I’ll never forget, Olivia ran into the house and said, ‘Where’s
ner. Buckley says this was
Dawn? Where’s baby Addi?’ That’s when I knew everything
made possible by more
was going to be all right,” Buckley details.
than $300,000 in commu-
Empowered by her newly forged friendship and the more she
nity donated materials, services and labor.
learned about Down syndrome the more she felt compelled
Buckley says the past seven years of motherhood that took an
to help others. That led to a volunteer position with the Down
unexpected path has been a constant learning experience. By
Syndrome Association of Northwest Indiana (DSA) with an ob-
and large, she says she came to discover children with Down
jective to help the organization update their resources, share
syndrome will do everything other children can do they may
more information with local hospitals and give the community
just take a little longer to do it.
and families more support.
“Life through her eyes is awesome. I’m more grateful for things
Sixteen months after Addison was born, Buckley and her hus-
and try not to take anything for granted. She works so hard
band welcomed daughter Cayla into the world. Balancing two
[for her accomplishments] and we work so hard to help her.
under two along with Addison’s various weekly occupational,
Every little milestone is a celebration,” Buckley says. “…Addi
physical and speech therapies, Buckley says she felt she need-
can read, do addition, is starting on subtraction, gets ready by
ed to leave her full-time career in education.
herself, horseback rides, is a great swimmer, loves her friends,
Shortly thereafter, the opportunity to further assist DSA and
guacamole, family and school.”
local Down syndrome awareness surfaced and she jumped at
Another personal experience, she adds, is Addison’s experi-
the unique opportunity. She was named DSA Executive Direc-
ence in school.
tor two years ago.
“The kids are incredible. They’re patient and understanding.
On March 21 (to symbolize the third copy of the 21st chro-
She’s learning just as much from them as they are from her. It
mosome in people with Down syndrome), the non-profit or-
warms my heart. It’s incredible,” Buckley says.
ganization will be celebrating World Down Syndrome Day.
Her recommendation to parents wanting to have a conver-
The free family-friendly community open house with a focus
sation with their children about others with any difference,
on acceptance and understanding will be held from 3:21 pm
“Teach them acceptance and awareness. We’re more similar
to 7 pm at DSA’s office located at 2906 Highway Avenue in
than different.”
Highland, Ind.
To learn more about DSA visit dsaofnwi.org or find them on
“We’re here to help the inclusion of people of all abilities. It’s
Facebook. - mtm
our vision and mission to give everyone the same opportunities, to break down barriers and see past the diagnosis and put the person first,” Buckley says.
an
awards
mtm: feature brooke recktenwall
nwi
O
runnin’ with the irish
On Saturday, March 12th St. Patrick’s Catholic School will host
namesake, there is much celebration that takes place at the St.
its 16th annual Runnin’ with the Irish 5k run/walk. Long recog-
Patrick’s School and Parish on and before March 17.
nized as an annual rite of spring and the kickoff to the outdoor
The festivities kick off with a kid’s fun run at 8:30 am followed
running season in Northwest Indiana, Runnin’ with the Irish 5k
by the sound of bagpipes while the runners/walkers corral
is a road race that takes runners and walkers on a scenic tour
themselves to take off for the 5k at 9:00 am. This race is well
of the Indiana Dunes State Park. This annual event has grown
known for their hospitality and refreshments following the race.
over the past 15 years and attracts more than 1,000 partici-
Over 100 school families donate baked goods and the aroma
pants and spectators. This event features a children’s fun run, a
of hot corned beef and cabbage fills the air.
bagpiper, a costume contest sponsored by Mom to Mom, NWI
The Mom to Mom, NWI Costume Contest will be offering up
and corned beef and cabbage. This 5k run/walk is one of the
some great prizes this year for those dressed in their best St. Pat-
best St. Patrick’s Day celebrations around.
rick’s Day gear – the more outrageous the better! We will award
Runnin’ with the Irish is one of the largest fundraisers for the
prizes in different categories and age groups so everyone is
school the support it receives from the community for this event
encouraged to have fun with this! To enter the contest, visit the
is greatly appreciated. St. Patrick’s Catholic School is located in
Mom to Mom, NWI tent at the race between 7:30am-8:30am
Chesterton, Ind. and offers a faith based education for children
to get your phot taken and to be a part of the fun! The winners
pre-k through 8th grade. Currently, there are over 200 students
will be announced post-race so be sure to hang around after the
enrolled and the school boasts excellent test scores, many four
race to see if you’ve won.
star awards, and was named a National Blue Ribbon school
Runnin’ with the Irish race wear will be for sale and this year
by the United States Department of Education in 2014. The
is the first year that a ½ zip race jacket is included in the reg-
school is a part of St. Patrick’s Parish and is located on a shared
istration fee. For more information and registration visit www.
property. St. Patrick’s Parish is named after the Patron Saint of
stpatsparish.org. This event is truly the pot of gold at the end of
Ireland and his feast day is March 17th, the day of his death.
the rainbow. - mtm
Since the holiday has deep Catholic roots and is the school’s mom to mom nwi | march 2016 | page 10
To enter send form & entry fee to: Runnin’ with the Irish 5K | C/O Patty Neely 403 S. Jackson Blvd. | Chestertaon, IN 46304
Additional Applications Available Online at: StPatsParish.org Register Online at thtiming.com
mtm: education provided by Forest Ridge Academy
F
innovation: dreaming, designing & doing
Forest Ridge Academy has found itself on the bleeding edge
The 21st century workforce will need a different skill set. Engi-
of technology education by incorporating innovative technolo-
neering and thinking outside the box will be among the most
gy initiatives into the regular school day, at every grade level.
necessary skills. Technology will be embedded into every field,
Excitement generates from every classroom as students explore
and computer science will continue to drive innovation. It is
uses for 3D printers, green screens, Spheros, Osmo’s, iPads,
never too early to prepare students by providing them with the
and more. There are makerspaces in the classrooms where stu-
necessary skills for future success.
dents are encouraged to invent a variety of materials. Technol-
Academy continue to evolve into learning spaces where students
ogy crosses over into every subject area. Math, science, and
lead and teachers guide their discovery, creativity and learning,
reading skills are incorporated into coding and designing.
preparing them for their role in this new environment. Students
In the preschool, students are learning to code Bee Bots to fol-
need to become strong in people skills, able to communicate and
low simple and complex directions while they practice letter and
collaborate. They need the confidence in their own abilities to
number recognition. They discover circuitry and learn to create
say “what if” and then, not only research, but design and create.
a connection that will light their way into the future. Finding
In an ever-changing environment of technological advancement,
a need for a place to store writing instruments, one class ap-
our students will be prepared for a work environment where they
proached the Woodshop teacher to discuss solutions to their
collaborate, evaluate, design, create, invent, and reinvent.
problem. The end result was the design, cutting, and creation
In today’s culture where technology is moving so fast, the chal-
of pencil boxes to sit on the student’s desks. After reading An
lenge is to keep up with it. Forest Ridge Academy has risen to
Indian in the Cupboard, students in fourth grade drafted, cut,
that challenge and successfully designed an environment where
and built cupboards in Woodshop. During technology time,
innovation works within traditional classroom subjects and cur-
these same students learned a 3D software program and then
ricula. For more information, please visit the school’s website at
designed and printed a key for their cupboard. Lastly, in Art
www.fra.edu.
class, the Indian was drawn, colored, cut out, and placed into
Open registration for the 2016-2017 school year at Forest
the cupboard. Studying immigration in middle school, students
Ridge Academy begins in March. Forest Ridge is located at
researched and generated family trees with the help of a pro-
7300 Forest Ridge Drive in Schererville, IN. To see the school,
gram called ThingLink. They read Journey of the Sparrows and
personal tours can be arranged through the Admissions Office.
scripted, edited, and produced movie trailers to display their
For more information or to schedule a tour, the Director of Ad-
own views on the book. One student took this project to another
missions, Thespena Panos, can be reached at tpanos@fra.edu or
level and created a mini-documentary using time-lapse effects
(219) 756-7300. - mtm
and other special techniques to display her artistic expression. mom to mom nwi | march 2016 | page 12
Classrooms at Forest Ridge
mtm: ask the doc dr. sandee clark
F
there’s no difference
From the moment he wakes up until bedtime, Mitchell is on the
the need for chiropractic adjustments for all children. I have
go. Like any other 4 year old, he is curious, rambunctious,
Mitchell to thank for giving me the passion to help children.
silly, and the kindest kid in the world - according to his mom.
My office continues to dedicate a large portion of our prac-
He is always trying to make us laugh and is so helpful by
tice to pediatrics with amazing results. Parents have reported
picking up his toys, cleaning up dirty plates after dinner and
their children are more verbal after their first adjustment, tem-
making sure we all have our water cups full so we can sit and
peraments are improving, sleep is getting better and those
watch his favorite movie, Ice Age.
“growing pains” are not so painful anymore.
After living with a child that has Down syndrome, I have
Throughout the childhood years, children’s spines are grow-
learned that there really is no difference in raising a child with
ing rapidly and being subjected to all kinds of stress. They ex-
a disability than one without. You still feed them, bathe them,
perience falls while learning to walk, they wear heavy back-
love them and sometimes get frustrated with those annoying
packs during the school years and they participate in sports
little things they do. There is no difference.
which can be hard on their joints. They undergo many of the
You may recall my article last year talking about my birthing
same mental struggles that adults cope with on a daily basis.
experience with Mitchell and how I had no idea he had Down
Their hormones change, their bodies must chemically adapt
syndrome until he was born. While the first year was chal-
to the foods and drugs that have entered their bodies. For
lenging, the next three years our family has adapted quite
these reasons alone, I believe kids need chiropractic adjust-
well to his development as he continues to “beat the odds”
ments. Now add to the mix a child with muscle hypo tonicity
by rising above what the typical developmental patterns are
(low tone to their muscles). It may be challenging to crawl cor-
for children with Down syndrome. Because of his success,
rectly yet alone stand or walk independently so the child often
my chiropractic practice focuses on educating parents about
recruits other muscles to do the job. This can lead to muscle
mom to mom nwi | march 2016 | page 14
nwi
strain or ligamentous laxity and the child most often will be
On March 26, 2016 from 10 am to 3 pm Clark’s Family
referred for Physical Therapy. I have found kids dealing with
Chiropractic will be hosting our 2nd annual Down syndrome
physical delays often always do better when chiropractic
awareness fundraiser, and this year is going to be bigger and
adjustments are added to their treatment plan. Chiroprac-
better! Last year our fundraiser was a great success and we
tors will align the bones to make sure there is no tension on
were able to raise $1000.00 for the Michiana Down Syn-
the joints and the P.T. will help strengthen the child’s muscles
drome group.
with gross motor skills, coordination and balancing exercises.
we are honored to have the 501st legion Northern Darkness
Chiropractic care delivers a fully functioning nervous system
Garrison group which is a group of volunteer men and wom-
with each adjustment so the child can advance quicker with
en dressed in official Star Wars costuming. My husband has
other therapies recommended.
joined the legion and is an official Storm Trooper, complete
Ok, so maybe there is one difference in raising a child with
with custom made armor made in the United Kingdome. Pro-
special needs versus one without. Because of Mitchell’s spe-
fessional photographers will be on hand to snap your family
cial need, my family has dedicated the chiropractic business
photo with the Star Wars characters for a donation of $21
to helping kids receive gentle chiropractic care. The commu-
which includes a t-shirt from the event.
nity also benefits from Mitchell’s special need because it cre-
The fundraiser will also consist of many great items to be
ated an interest for our office to hold a fundraiser bringing
raffled off with tickets being sold for $5 each, plus we have a
awareness to a group that helps families with Down syndrome
huge silent auction of great gifts and services you can try to
- that organization is the Michiana Down Syndrome Family
win for a substantially lower cost.
Support and Advocacy group in Mishawaka. I think Mitchell
have already been so gracious to donate items but we are
benefits the most from having a special need because he has
always looking for more. If you are a business that would
a mom who is a Doctor of Chiropractic, specializing in pe-
like to donate a special item to be added to our raffle or si-
diatrics and a Dad who is a Storm Trooper - part time. Yes, I
lent auction please contact Brad Clark at (219) 879-5437 or
said Storm Trooper. This leads me to our fundraiser.
email us at clarkschiro@gmail.com. - mtm
This year we are hoping to double that and
A lot of local businesses
mtm: feature kimberly blaker
It’s National Cleaning Week: Room-by-Ro
T
The emergence of spring has long been associated with deep
The basics – for every room in your home
or Jewish culture, it has long been a popular custom in America
• Dust wall and ceiling light fixtures, then remove globes, and wash them out.
and is gaining popularity in other parts of the world. For most
• Dust ceiling fan blades.
cleaning our homes. Although its origin is presumed of Iranian
it signifies a fresh home, or fresh start, to compliment the blossoming of spring. March 27 - April 1 marks this year’s National Cleaning Week. So join the ranks of spring cleaners by using this guide to complete the task. To keep the job from feeling overwhelming, schedule a block of time each day, or even each week, for your annual cleaning. Work on one room at a time and reward yourself for each room until the job is done.
• Remove cobwebs with a vacuum and brush attachment or a clean rag attached to the head of a broom. • Remove and wash window coverings, and dust the top of curtain rods and window trim. • Remove wall hangings, knick-knacks, and other décor, then rinse in warm soapy water. • Wash doors and knobs and the dust that collects on top of doors and entryway trim. • Wash walls with an all-purpose cleaning solution. Touch up mars and chips with paint. • Wipe off switch plates.
• Empty cabinets and drawers then wash them inside and out. Wash out and arrange drawer organizers, as well. • Wash windows and sills, and don’t forget the unsightly tracks. • Clean unupholstered furniture from top to bottom with an appropriate cleaner. • Vacuum upholstered furniture from top to bottom and under cushions, paying special attention to creases and crevices where dust and grunge build up. • Vacuum lampshades with a soft bristle attachment. • Unplug electrical cords and run through a damp rag to remove built-up dust. • Wash baseboards, then vacuum carpet edges with a narrow attachment. • Vacuum and/or mop under furniture and other stationary items.
oom Guidance for Conquering the Task The bathroom—scour and disinfect
Basement, attic & garage—clutter havens • Install racks, shelving, and hooks then organize and eliminate clutter.
• Scour tub and shower from top to bottom, inside and out. Use a toothbrush to remove mold, mildew, and soap scum accumulation around the drain, faucet, knobs, and showerhead.
• Dust shelving and stored items.
• Remove and launder shower curtain and liner, bath mat, toilet cover, and rugs.
• Clean glass shower doors inside and out including the track. • Spray exterior of toilets with a sanitizing solution and wipe down. • If you have young boys, remove the toilet seat and clean bolts where odors linger. Use a deodorizing solution on the baseboard and wall behind the toilet. • Wash toilet brush container and wastebasket. • Scrub sink and counter top including grooves around the drain, faucet, and knobs. • Dust the top edge of mirrors, towel racks, and other accessories.
Kitchen—contamination zones
• Store odds and ends in same-size boxes or containers for easy stacking. • Remove oil, paint, and other stains from concrete with trisodium phosphate. Be sure to follow directions carefully and protect skin and eyes. • Dispose of unwanted items.
Outdoors—dirt, dirt everywhere • Hose down siding and windows.
• Wash screens with soapy water then rinse with a hose, and wash window exteriors. • Scrub doormats with an all-purpose cleaner and a brush, then rinse. • Spray off patio furniture then wipe clean.
• Dust the top of kitchen cabinets.
• Clean light fixtures.
• Remove grease and grime from small kitchen appliances
• Remove lint from dryer vent and nests and hives that have formed on or near the house. - mtm
• Clean stove, oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher inside and out. • Wipe built up grunge in the top of the garbage disposal with a rag, then add ice and lemon slices and run the disposal to clean and freshen the blades. • Scrub countertops with a mild abrasive or degreaser. • Wash table and chairs from top to bottom, and don’t forget the cracks where table leaves meet.
Bedroom odds ’n ends
• Remove items from under the bed, dust off storage containers, and dispose of clutter. • Vacuum under beds using attachments. • Eliminate unwanted articles from drawers.
Closets—the always forgotten • Dust shelving, brackets, and rods.
• Organize shelves and eliminate unneeded items. • Remove clothing that hasn’t been worn in two years. • Dust shoe racks and rarely worn shoes.
Time Saving Tips
• Gather cleaning tools and supplies before you get started. Have plenty of rags, an old toothbrush, q-tips, toothpicks, cleaning solutions, spray bottle, step stool or small ladder, and vacuum and attachments. • Work room-by-room for efficiency and to avoid duplicating or missing tasks. • Work around the room from top to bottom. • Play music as you clean. It may not save time, but will make time pass more quickly.
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday 1
Thursda 2
National Read Across America Day (Dr. Seuss Day)
6
7
8
Maple Sugar Time @ Chellberg Farm in Porter 10:00am-4:00pm *Admission is FREE
13
9 Broadway Our Way – The Greats of the Great White Way @ The Memorial Opera House 1:00pm-3:00pm
14
15
16
Happy St. Patrick’s
Daylight Savings
20
21
22
23
27
28
29
30
First Day of Spring
Happy Easter
Nationa Anthem D
31st Annual Valparaiso University Jazz Festival @ VU Harre Union and VU Athletics-Recreation Center *Call for tickets mom to mom nwi | march 2016 | page 18
ay
Friday 3
Saturday 4
5
Wide Open Mic – Host- Girls Night Out: Jewelry, ed by Tim Rounds @ Wine and Chocolate @ Lubeznik Center Taltree Arboretum 5:00pm-8:00pm 6:00pm-8:00pm *Admission is FREE *Admission $40-$45
al Day
10
11
12
Porter County Home & Valparaiso Kiwanis PanLifestyle Show @ Porter cake Day @ VHS Cafeteria 6:30am-12:30pm County Fairgrounds 12:00pm-8:00pm *Pre-Schoolers Eat FREE *Adults $7
17
y ’s Day
18
19
Ultimate Trivia Night @ Taltree Arboretum 6:00pm-9:00pm *Cost per team $125
Corkscrew & Brew @ Thomas Centennial Park 12:00pm-4:00pm *Admission is 35
25
26
24 Good Friday
2nd Annual Down syndrome Awareness Fundraiser @ Clark’s Family Chiropractic 10:00am-3:00pm
31
nwi
March Community Calendar
Kids Eat Free! The following restaurants have a Kid’s Night – where the kids eat free or at a discounted rate!
Joe’s Crab Shack
Steak ‘n Shake
Kids eat FREE - Mondays
Kids eat FREE - Saturday & Sunday
Three kids per adult entrée
for every $9 purchased at the
Amarillo Roadhouse
Portage and Valparaiso locations
Kids eat FREE - Tuesdays
Buffalo Wild Wings
with every adult entrée purchased
Half-Price Kids Meals - Sundays & Wednesdays
Texas Corral
Crown Point, Hobart and Valparaiso location. Dine-in only.
Kids eat for 99¢ - Tuesday
Denny’s
with each paid adult meal
Kids eat FREE - Tuesdays & Saturdays
Bob Evans Kids eat FREE - Tuesdays
4pm to 10pm with an adult entrée purchased ($4 minimum purchase). Two kids per adult entrée.
4pm to 7pm with every adult meal purchased
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Valparaiso & Chesterton locations
Kids 12 and under eat FREE - Sunday
Chili’s
Portage & Valparaiso locations One free kids’ meal for very adult meal purchased.
Kids eat FREE on Tuesdays Merrillville & Valparaiso Two kids per adult entrée
Pizza Hut Kids eat FREE - Tuesdays with the purchase of an adult entrée 4pm to 8pm - Chesterton location only
Fazoli’s Get 2 kids’ meals for 99¢ each - Tuesdays with the purchase of one adult entrée kids 12 and under from 5pm to 8pm
Old Country Buffet Kids 11 and under eat for $1.99 - Thursdays with the purchase of an adult buffet. Do you know of any other restaurants that offer FREE or nearly FREE meals? Email us at Stephanie@momtomomnwi.com and we will add them to our list!!
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mtm: feature debra krieg-lewis
nwi
F
date night: meditrina market café
“Fresh” is the word used to describe Meditrina Market Café. This
When our meals arrived the presentation was impressive! My
quaint little restaurant, located on the corner of Washington and
Chicken Shawarma Pita…chicken, tomatoes, romaine leaves all
Jefferson Street, offers healthy choices with a Mediterranean flair.
coated in tahini sauce inside a warm pita, also included some
I decided to bring a good friend with me to this restaurant on a
fried potatoes and another side salad. Her gluten free choice was
Wednesday evening. We were immediately seated and our wait-
the Falafel Pita, changing out the pita for romaine leaves and a
resses (one was being trained) explained the extensive specials for
small salad. We were both content with our choices and enjoyed
the evening. They were also listed on a cute chalkboard behind
our meal very much!
the bar which was nice since I couldn’t remember all that was said!
Those that know me, know that I’m not the most adventurous eater!
It was another Moscato night for me and my friend ordered some
With that being said, writing this column has been very interesting
mint tea from the drink menu which included both red and white
and has helped me try new things and branch out of my inner
wines, beer and cocktails. She is also trying a gluten free diet so
“picky eater.” This was definitely a new type of food for me and I
she questioned the waitresses about her options. Much to her de-
can see why so many enjoy Meditrina. I can definitely see myself
light, many of the choices are gluten free or could be changed to
returning and enjoying a glass of wine while experimenting with a
accommodate - definitely a plus with so many making that choice
different, “fresh” dish. - mtm
for their diet lately! I chose to try one of the specials, the scallops’ appetizer, and she chose the green bean salad. When my appetizer arrived, I was amazed by the portion – it could have been a small meal with those three scallops and small salad. And for the taste –amazing - we were off to a great start!!
Meditrina Market Café 24 Washington Street Valparaiso, IN 46383
Debra is originally from the Chicago area and has been in Valparaiso for a little over two years. She is a mom and step-mom, and loves to plan activities with her family and friends. A former elementary school teacher, Debra now enjoys decorating and crafting. mom to mom nwi | march 2016 | page 22
mtm: feature nichole odijk demario
internet safety
I
In today’s technology-laden society the phrase “stranger dan-
out of her home by the man and his female accomplice. Three
ger” has a whole new meaning. All too often we hear of chil-
days later her lifeless body was found approximately 80 miles
dren falling prey to child predators through the internet.
from her home.
This past January, a 13-year-old Virginia teenager was al-
For world-renowned inventor and mobile technology innovator
legedly courted by a Virginia Tech College student over several
who has dedicated his life to the protection of others Robert
months via a texting app called Kik. The teen was later lured
Fedder these stories, while shocking, are all too common. In the
nwi
early 2000s, his technology company was approached by law
“Would you give them your car keys and not ask where they’re
enforcement seeking assistance in tracking down internet pred-
going or what they’re doing? So why are we giving children
ators. Soon thereafter the marketplace spoke again – this time
smart phones and not asking about it? Parents have normalized.
parents were looking for a tool that would allow them to be more
Don’t. Don’t think it’s not dangerous….the real danger is that
proactive in their children’s cyber safety. My Mobile Watchdog
parents think it can’t happen to my child,” Fedder says.
was the first company in this space and has users worldwide.
He cites one example of a 12-year-old boy who had begun
The tool allows parents to access text messages, contacts, call
receiving unsolicited lewd photos from a grown man he first
logs, block apps and website, locate your child and more.
interacted with online. The boy responded to the man requesting
“This is what parenting is all about in today’s world. It’s not
to be left alone. When the parents became aware of the situa-
about spying on them,” Fedder says. “…Parents need to know
tion, they asked their son why he didn’t reach out to them for
who is in their child’s life. There is no substitute for being part of
guidance. He responded he thought he was in trouble and his
their lives…the problem today is because of technology, it’s like
phone would be taken away as punishment.
taking the front door off of your house while you’re gone and
Fedder explains through the various devices children have ac-
hoping everything will be okay.”
cess to, within seconds they can be interacting with someone a
Growing Wireless, a partnership between the Cellular Technol-
world away or blocks away. He further details child predators
ogy Industry Association (CTIA) and the Wireless Foundation,
use to have to have some sort of access to children directly, now
reports nearly 60 percent of children ages 8 to 12 have a cell
they are cloaked in anonymity through the internet and may be
phone. The group indicates while a vast majority of teens (90
pretending to be a child themselves.
percent) say their parents trust them to be responsible online,
He says children aren’t being exploited solely through smart
45 percent say they would change something about their online
phones. He advises parents to be aware of all devices that have
behavior if their parents were watching. Nearly 70-percent of
an internet connection such as gaming systems and portable
pre-teens admitted to hiding online activities.
media devices.
He suggests if parents choose to use a product like My Mobile
Vynie Cortez, a mother of five of Dyer, Ind. says her children all
Watchdog that they’re up front and honest about it and should
have iPods, which she says she knows are more like cell phone
use real-life examples of how things can go awry when they
than ever before because of apps and WiFi hotspots. She set up
have the discussion with their children. He says to assure them
each iPod to link to her iCloud account to help monitor usage.
you’re going to respect their privacy, but if something comes
She has also attended meetings held by local police depart-
up that as a parent you’re concerned about, you plan to talk
ments to stay up to date on what she may need to be alerted to.
about it. Further explain, no matter what it is, there will be no
“As a parent you have to be one step ahead,” she says.
judgment, but are there to help them.
“Be alert. Be aware. Engage in your child’s digital life. You don’t have a choice,” Fedder says. - mtm
RESOURCES: NetSmartz® Workshop, a program of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children – netsmartz.org My Mobile Watch Dog mymobilewatchdog.com
mindy’s menu mindy gear
nwi
march madness
M
March is a hectic month with many things to celebrate!
have reason to celebrate! So let’s dive right into the kitchen
Good thing there is 31 days to fit all the fun in! St. Patrick’s
and get cooking. - mtm
Day, Easter and Spring Break are just a few of the days we
Crock-Pot Corned Beef & Cabbage As our monthly crockpot recipe, we are going to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with some corned beef and cabbage. I asked my friend Toby to lend me her recipe. She has a creative cooking side that I envy!
Ingredients
Directions
1 med. onion, cut into wedges
2 Tbsp sugar
4 med. potatoes, peeled & quartered
2 Tbsp cider vinegar
quart slow cooker. Combine water, garlic, bay
1 pound baby carrots
½ tsp pepper
leaf, sugar, vinegar, pepper and contents of spice
3 cups water
3 pounds corned beef brisket with spice packet, cut in half
cabbage. Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours
3 garlic cloves, minced 1 bay leaf
Place the onion, potatoes and carrots in a 5
1 small head cabbage, cut into wedges
packet. Pour over vegetables. Top with brisket and or until tender. Remove bay leaf before serving.
Turkey and Black Bean Enchilada We have been on an Enchilada kick lately. I’ve made about 5 different types over the last month. This one was quick and easy. Tons of flavor and did I mention easy?? You could change up the filling and make it your own. We tried quinoa and black bean, ground beef and refried bean, chicken and rice. Just try whatever you have on hand. Please try making the enchilada sauce. It was simple and tasted much better than canned! If you double the batch, you could save the rest for next time!
Ingredients
½ cup canned black beans
Directions
1 can enchilada sauce (or use the simple recipe below to make your own), divided
1 ½ cups Monterey Jack, shredded
Preheat oven to 375°. Pour 1 cup enchilada sauce in the bottom
1 Tbsp olive oil ½ pound ground turkey 1 can green diced chiles 1 small onion, chopped ½ cup frozen corn
1 ½ cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded 12 corn tortillas (or flour), warmed Garnish options: cilantro, avocado, tomatoes, onions, sour cream, salsa, etc.
of a 9x13 baking dish. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium high heat. Add ground turkey, onion, green chiles, salt/pepper to taste. Cook thoroughly, about 5 minutes, making sure to crumble as you cook. Combine the turkey, beans, corn and ½ cup of each cheese in a bowl. Place warmed tortillas on flat surface and spoon about ¼ cup turkey filling into center. Roll tortilla and place seam side down onto prepared baking dish, repeat with remaining shells. Top with remaining sauce and cheese. Cover with foil and place into oven. Bake until bubbly, about 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake additional few minutes.
Sauce Ingredients
Sauce DIRECTIONS
3 Tbsp vegetable oil
½ tsp Salt
Heat oil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add flour and stir together
3 Tbsp flour
½ tsp cumin
for one minute. Stir in the remaining seasonings (chili powder, garlic powder,
3 Tbsp chili powder
½ tsp oregano
salt, cumin, and oregano). Gradually add the stock, whisking constantly to
½ tsp garlic powder
3 cups chicken or vegetable stock
remove any lumps. Reduce heat and simmer 10-15 minutes until thick. You can use immediately or refrigerate in air-tight container for up to two weeks.
Grandma’s Carrot Cake My Grandmother’s carrot cake recipe is one of my favorite recipes that I inherited from her. She only made it for Easter and it was something we definitely looked forward to. I tend to skip the raisins as I’m not a huge fan, but I’m picky so feel free to use them.
Cake Ingredients
Cake DIRECTIONS
Frosting Ingredients
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
If you would like to toast your pecans for a
2- 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened
2 tsp baking powder
better crunch: preheat oven to 300°. Spread
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 tsp baking soda
pecans onto a baking sheet and bake for
4 cups confectioners’ sugar
½ tsp salt
about 8 minutes. Remove and cool.
2 Tbsp milk
Preheat oven to 350°. Grease 2, 9” cake
1 tsp vanilla
pans or a 9x13 pan and set aside. Sift the
Pinch of salt
2 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp ground ginger ¼ cloves
flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger and cloves into a bowl and
Frosting directions
1 ½ cups brown sugar
set aside. In a large bowl or stand mixer,
Whip cream cheese and butter until com-
½ cup granulated sugar
whisk the brown sugar, granulated sugar,
bined about 2 minutes. Add in sugar and
1 cup vegetable oil
oil, eggs, applesauce and vanilla together
milk and continue blending for 2 more min-
4 large eggs
until combined and no lumps remain. Pour
utes. Add vanilla and 1 additional Tbsp milk
the wet ingredients into the dry and stir un-
if you need to thin out frosting.
¾ cup unsweetened applesauce 1 tsp pure vanilla 2 cups freshly grated carrots 1 cup pecans for batter, plus 1 cup for garnish 1 cup raisins, optional
til just combined. Stir in carrots and pecans. Divide batter between pans. Bake in preheat-
Assembly directions
ed oven for 30-35 minutes or until toothpick
First, even out the top of each layer with a
comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool on wire
serrated knife. Spread frosting across bottom
rack. Gently remove from pan. Make frosting
layer of cake. Add second layer and frost top
and assemble.
and sides. Sprinkle with remaining pecans.
mom to mom nwi | march 2016 | page 28
mtm: trina’s picks trina bobrowski
F
Book Reviews of Michael & Donna Coles’
“The Land of Caring Bou”
Nowadays, being a kid is extremely difficult. When we were young-
Caring Bou to their new location.
er, if a classmate was bothering you at school, coming home would
So instead, they were brought to a
give some what of a break from the teasing. Social media has done
safe area by a peaceful pond. The
away with that break. Now, the bullies can attack kids at - and we
Caring Bou told the young animals
need to teach our kids how to deal with this. I strongly believe it’s im-
each of them had special gifts to
portant to educate our kids on how to be kind to others and celebrate
use to protect the area as summer
differences instead of pointing them out - it would stop so much pain
approached the pond. With those words he left, but was never too
and anguish our children endure every day. Michael and Donna
far away. He kept a close eye on them and always made sure they
Coles wrote The Land of Caring Bou with that thought in mind - cele-
were safe. The story continues spotlighting each animals talents and
brate each other’s differences as we each have something special to
how they use them to keep the pond safe. In turn they realize that just
add to one another’s lives.
being yourself is all you need in life.
Winter was coming and the Caring Bou were on the move - they knew
The Land of Caring Bou is a special story, one I will have to read to
that they had to find food and shelter before the snow fell. Tagging
my children again. Life is hard for them - some children are constantly
along with the Caring Bou were the herd’s newest members - a snowy
taunted by their peers which can wear on their self esteem. I want
owl, a black bear, a bighorn sheep, and a clown duck. These new
them to know that being yourself is the best possible way to live and
members were very young and should not have been following the
you will eventually shine through to your peers as well.
- mtm
mtm: trina’s picks trina bobrowski
F
Book Reviews of Paula Hawkins’
“The Girl on the Train”
This month we are introducing you to author Paula Hawkins. She
she has never spoken to before.
worked as a journalist for fifteen years before deciding to write her
Soon she is so deeply embroiled in
very first thriller, The Girl on the Train. She has a very distinct writing
a missing person case she may be
style using the voices of three main female characters: Rachael, Anna
doing more harm that good.
and Meagan. Hawkins unravels the contents of her thrilling mystery
The Girl on the Train is a partic-
in an intriguing and captivating way. I couldn’t flip through the pages
ularly unsettling thriller, and the
fast enough, eating up every clue she releases involving the disap-
best part is no one can be trusted.
pearance of main character Meagan.
Hawkins has the ability to make
Rachael loves to ride the train, she loves to look out the window and
the reader think anyone could be
watch the quaint suburban houses fly by. One house in particular
guilty, which is so clever on her
stands out to Rachael. This house has a couple living there and has
part because I couldn’t put the
grabbed her attention. Lovingly, Rachael has decided to call the cou-
book down until the very end when
ple Jess and Jason. Almost every day she can see the couple sitting on
all is revealed. This story has an
their back porch having a wonderful time in there perfect marriage.
extraordinary plot twist and left me wanting to reread the story and
On one of Rachael’s train rides she sees something that is so shocking
see if I could pull out any clues I might have missed. - mtm
to her - she can’t help but get involved in the lives of these two people
mom to mom nwi | march 2016 | page 34