Happybirthday, America! Independence Day represents the birth of the U.S. as an independent nation upon the signing of the Declaration of Independence July 4, 1776. It’s also a great month to celebrate other birthdays—like the birth of a child! Check out our ideas for a patriotic baby shower (page 16), for those who are red, white and due!
In keeping with the baby theme, Family Life for combatting morning sickness during pregnancy (page 12) and offers 10 tips for those returning to work once maternity leave ends (page 10).
Perhaps your kids aren’t babies anymore, and they are bickering now that summer is here. Read our article for ways to combat sibling rivalry (page 14). One sure-fire way to put a momentary end to summer bickering and boredom is to spend family time at some of the Fourth of July events around the area. See our complete list in this issue (page 19).
Last but not least, this month’s humor column is from a mom who knows what happens to the family car while school is out for summer. It’s nice to know you’re not alone
Bringing up the topic of child support can be hard. The Mendocino County Child Support Services office is here to help you understand the child support process and file all the paperwork involved. We are a neutral party, and assist both moms and dads!
We provide the following services in a professional and timely manner at little or no cost:
Marketing/ Sales/Events
Patricia Ramos 707-205-1539
patty@family-life.us
Features Editor
Angel Jenkins angel@family-life.us
Production Manager
Donna Bogener production@family-life.us
Contributing Writers
Angel Jenkins
Local Hive™ Hone
Sarah Lyons
Cheryl Maguire
Pam Moore
Gina Rich
Billing Jan Wasson-Smith
Locating the other parent and assets
Obtaining child support orders
Enforcing child support orders
Modifying child support orders
Establish parentage including genetic testing
Providing a monthly accounting of what is owed and due
Providing individualized case management/help with navigating the child support and
Publishing Office P.O. Box 351 Philo, CA 95466 (707) 205-1539
Honey of A Cookie
Local Product Supports Bees
Courtesy of Local Hive™ Honey
Perfect for an after-swimming treat or with a summer lesson on bees, these Honey Cinnamon Shortbread Cookies use a muffin tin instead of a baking sheet, making it super easy to whip up perfectly round, bite-sized cookies in 30 minutes.
Another cool trick? The recipe replaces most of the cane sugar with locally sourced, smooth and fruity Nor Cal honey from Local Hive™. Made entirely by California bees, not only does this raw and unfiltered blend add complexity and richness that plain sugar just can’t, but by purchasing a bottle, you’re also helping to support our region’s wildflower pollinators and American beekeepers.
Besides honey, pollination is bees’ greatest gift. A portion of Local Hive™ proceeds from every bottle go to PACE—Pollinator Awareness through Conservation and Education—which promotes, protects, and prolongs pollination everywhere. ❖
This recipe is part of the #100waystousehoney series, celebrating 100 years of 100 percent U.S. honey. If you love how your cookies turn out, take a picture and tag @localhivehoney on Instagram!
Honey Cinnamon Shortbread Cookies
Yield: 12-14 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 15-18 minutes
¼ cup Local Hive™ Nor Cal Honey Blend
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1⅓ cup all-purpose flour
⅛ teaspoon salt
1. Preheat oven to 3500F. Line 12-cup muffin pan with baking cups.
2. In small bowl, mix together honey, cinnamon, and flour. Set aside.
3. In large bowl, cream together butter, sugars, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Stir in flour and salt until combined and crumbly.
4. Press 2 packed teaspoons of shortbread dough into bottom of each muffin liner.
5. Drizzle 1 teaspoon of honey cinnamon filling over center of each cookie.
6. Sprinkle shortbread cookie dough crumbs over top of each cookie.
7. Bake on middle rack until edges are lightly browned (15-18 minutes).
8. Once cool enough to touch, transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Lunch at Library Pop-Ups in the Park
The Ukiah Branch Library is partnering with Ukiah Unified School District for Summer Lunch at the Library Pop-Ups. UUSD provides free lunches to all children through age 18 regardless of income. The library offers free access to crafts, games, STEM projects, physical activity, and learning about food and nutrition. Lunch at the Library is a project of the California State Library, supported with funds from the State of California. Tuesdays through July 27. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Todd Grove Park, 600 Live Oak Ave., Ukiah. For more information, contact the Children’s Librarian at 707-234-2865, or visit tinyurl.com/5fnjwfwv
Shakespeare Goes Totally 80s
Lake County Theatre Company presents The Tempest: Shakespeare at the Lake. One of William Shakespeare’s final plays, The Tempest is believed to have been written around 1610-1611. LCTC transports the play to the early 1980’s punk scene. Power struggles, love stories, and a comic coup detat (with spiky hair and torn jeans) equates to a unique and energetic rendition of Shakespeare’s works. Bring a chair and wear sunscreen. Saturday, July 27–Sunday, July 28 and Friday, August 2–Saturday, August 3. 6–9 p.m. Library Park. 200 Park St., Lakeport. Visit laketheatre.org for more information.
Help the Community at Lions Carnival
Carnival by the Sea is the major annual fundraiser of the Fort Bragg/Mendocino Lions Club featuring festival fun including a full midway. Proceeds help the Lions provide eyecare, vocational scholarships, the Free Senior Christmas dinner, Easter Egg Hunt, sponsorship of youth activities, maintenance of the community hall (to keep rent low for locals to use for their special occasions) and more. Tickets: $30 in advance, $35 at the door. Thursday, July 11–Sunday, July 14. Thursday–Friday: 4–10 p.m. Saturday–Sunday: Noon–10 p.m. End of West Redwood Avenue, Fort Bragg. Learn more at tinyurl.com/4a9y5j4x
Develop Nature Skills at Day Camp
Give your kids the chance for hands-on exploration at the Childrens Museum of Art and Science Adventure Day Camp. Environmental education will include proper survival skills, how to identify plants, and animal tracking. Kids will gain confidence toward being outdoors while having a fantastic time participating in nature activities. For ages 7–16, the free, 60-spot camp fills up fast. Sunday, July 28. 11:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Clearlake Campground. 7805 Cache Creek Rd., Clearlake. (Park at the top of the hill upon entrance.) Register: tinyurl.com/2te2vx7y
Fun Fair Engages Families
Join Konocti Vista Casino and Resort in celebrating a milestone 30 years of memories, laughter, and fun! This Carnival Fun Fair extravaganza features an indoor arcade, carnival games, delicious treats, and non-stop entertainment. Rides include a 60-foot ferris wheel, giant slide, the Paratrooper, Loop-o-Plane, Tubs of Fun, Dragon Coaster, Jeep Ride, and Frogg Hopper. Unlimited rides bracelets: $20; $25 at the gate (fees apply). Saturday, July 13. 1–11 p.m. 2755 Mission Rancheria Rd., Lakeport. Email info@kvcasino.com with questions or purchase tickets: tinyurl.com/2ne6kc2x
Get Up Close with Fire Trucks and More
Touch-A-Truck is a hands-on family event that allows children (and kids at heart!) to explore unique and exclusive vehicles of all types up close and in one place. Part of the Ukiah Parks and Recreation Department’s Summer Fridays schedule, Touch-a-Truck gives children the chance to put their hands on and explore vehicles that shape the world, such as ambulances, fire trucks, police cruisers, construction equipment, and more. Friday, July 26. 5–8 p.m. Pear Creek Tree Center. 504 E. Perkins St., Ukiah. Learn more and reserve your spot: tinyurl.com/4dp9fhr6
MaternityLeave Memo
Prepping for the Return to Work
By Pam Moore
As your maternity leave draws to a close, here is a top 10 list of things to keep in mind when returning to the office.
No. 1: Don’t overload coworkers with baby photos. Even if colleagues inquire, “How’s the baby?” remember your pre-baby life. Think back to how it felt to feign interest in the children of your friends and co-workers.
No. 2: Don’t stress about pumping at work. Obviously, attaching a suction device to your breasts while sitting in a room HR has assured you is private, except for the absence of a lock on the door, is stress inducing. Take it from someone who knows, it will work out and it doesn’t last forever.
No. 3: Don’t automatically eliminate caffeine just because you are breastfeeding. Disclaimer: I’m a writer, not a doctor, but I would advise giving coffee a try and see how you feel before you put the complete kibosh on this daily ritual. (And by ritual I mean survival tactic). Yes, you may have to eliminate it, but you may also find it is fine in moderation.
No. 4: Do check references before hiring a sitter. Never assume loading the dishwasher is something a sitter knows they are expected to do. Ask references what
the sitter specifically accomplished for them. If taking your child to the park, making art projects out of Jell-O, and tidying your house are things you require, a reference can tell you if they trust a sitter to follow through.
No. 5: Do review diaper changing with your sitter. I don’t care if she has “night nurse for triplets” on her resume. Just smile and say something like, “I know this is ridiculous, but if you would humor me, let’s change a diaper, so you’ll know where the diapers and wipes are!” Believe it or not, there are times I have been puzzled to find my child soaked through her diaper overnight only to find the sitter put it on backward.
No. 6: Do take your lunch break. Because isn’t lunch the whole point of work? I like work but I love chatting with my co-workers over lunch. Also, I have a thing for the cafeteria coconut cream pie. If you are away from your cherub for eight to nine hours, what are another 30 minutes or so if it means your workday has a fun part that involves fellowship … and pie?
No. 7: Do give your sitter a 30-minute warning before you come home. This gives her a chance to do the things she should have done while the baby was napping, like fold that basket of laundry and wipe down the high chair tray. If she’s awesome and did those things already, she now has plenty of time to put away the books and toys your child has strewn about. Walking into a clean house after working all day makes giving the heads-up worthwhile.
No. 8: Do get everything ready the night before. It’s hard enough to get out the door when you just need to kiss the baby one last time (10 times). Add a 5:30 a.m. nursing session, another at 7:45, and a diaper change (or two), and you will appreciate any spare second you can find. The night before, lay out your work outfit. If you can shower at night without suffering from crazy morning hair, do it. Don’t forget to prep the coffee machine the night before!
No. 9: Do leave for work before your partner, if schedules allow. And not just because you get sensitive when your child jumps into the sitter’s arms and hardly notices you leaving. If you’re a chatterbox and your partner
& begin
Head Start works with families to ensure everyone has what they need, and most importantly, the tools in helping children become socially and emotionally competent.
We invite families to advocate for their child and family by suggesting changes that would better their needs within the program
is not, leaving a note is more time efficient than hanging around while the sitter reads it, then telling her everything you already wrote, giving her a tour of the fridge, and chatting about the weather when
Never assume loading the dishwasher is something a sitter knows they are expected to do.
your husband could have done the hand-off in three minutes, and all you would have had to do was trust that everything would be fine and the sitter would text you with any questions.
No. 10: Do remember that this too shall pass. I know the frustation of getting up with a crying baby at 2 a.m. night after night. If you have a partner, consider a rotating schedule so that each of you potentially gets several consecutive hours of sleep. If that’s not possible, you’ll have to take the word of veteran moms everywhere that eventually, babies sleep through the night. And, as tired as you may be now, your baby smiling and bouncing upon seeing your face when you get home from work makes for pretty good rejuvenation. ❖
Pam Moore is an award-winning freelance writer, intuitive eating coach, and host of the Real Fit podcast. Get her free guide to improving your body image at pam-moore.com. This article was originally published on Scary Mommy.
We prepare daily fresh, hot, & healthy, family style meals on site for every child
We help keep track of your child’s medical & well check timelines.
Teachers hold permits for Early Learning & Supervision through the California Teacher Credentialling Program
We teach academics that are individualized, developmentally appropriate and to prepare children for Kindergarten.
Teachers are potty training experts! Children do not need to be potty trained Diapers and wipes are provided at no charge. Scan me to apply!
We are known for our classrooms to have high teacher to child ratios
Rude Awakenings Combatting
Morning Sickness
By Cheryl Maguire
Are you feeling nausea during your pregnancy? If so, I feel your pain. It has been more than 10 years since I was pregnant, but I still remember that awful queasy feeling.
During my first pregnancy with twins, I experienced morning sickness all day. In fact, I felt the sickest at night time. During my second pregnancy with a single baby, I thought I would feel better especially since I knew what to expect and I was only having one baby. But it was worse, much worse. Chasing after toddler twins only left me feeling more nauseous. During both pregnancies, I had morning sickness until I reached my sixth month of pregnancy.
According to biologist Margie Profet, morning sickness is an evolutionary
Similar
to ginger,
chewing
gum
causes you to produce extra saliva which neutralizes stomach acidity.
adaptation, which defends a fetus from natural contaminants. Studies have shown that women who experience morning sickness are less likely to miscarry.
The American Pregnancy Association found that most women experience morning sickness from the sixth week to the 12th week.
More than 50 percent of pregnant women have some form of nausea due to the increase in the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG).
Nothing I did cured my morning sickness but these remedies helped me to feel better even if only for a short while. Of course, before you try any of these methods you should discuss it with your doctor.
Studies have shown that women who experience morning sickness are less likely to miscarry.
Eat When You First Wake Up: I always had a box of crackers on my nightstand. Before I got out of bed I would eat a few crackers. An empty stomach can increase nausea due to stomach acid so eating even a few crackers will help decrease the feeling. It also helps throughout the day to eat small snacks to make sure your stomach is never empty.
Drink Lemonade: Lemon is an alkaline that reduces irritation in your stomach. Some people also find the smell of lemons reduces nausea. I don’t like lemonade but I was willing to try anything and I did notice some relief after drinking it.
Consider Ginger: Ginger is a spice that has a calming effect on your stomach since it promotes the secretion of digestive enzymes that help neutralize stomach acid. It also contains phenols that relax stomach muscles. You can sprinkle it on your food or try drinking Ginger Ale but make sure it states “made with real
ginger” on the bottle. Ginger candy or capsules are also available.
Chew Some Gum: For me, chewing gum was the most effective method in helping me to feel better, especially since I could chew gum all day long (whereas I couldn’t drink lemonade all day). Similar to ginger, chewing gum causes you to produce extra saliva which neutralizes stomach acidity. Peppermint or spearmint gum will aid nausea symptoms since it contains menthol which has an antispasmodic effect relieving indigestion.
Lie Down: It may be difficult to lie down, especially if you are caring for other children or you are at work but sometimes it is the only way to feel better. I found motion
(as simple as walking) could cause my morning sickness to get worse so lying down would help settle my stomach. Deep breathing while lying down can calm both your mind and abdomen.
I used this vitamin and can confirm it did make me feel better. Even if you have morning sickness during your entire pregnancy, once the baby is born it will all be forgotten and worth all the suffering. Until of course, someone mentions their morning sickness and you can’t help but feel a little queasy yourself. Here’s hoping one or more of these tips help ease those rude awakenings that sometimes last all day long. ❖
B6 Vitamin: A study by Dr. Jennifer Niebyl found that taking 25 mg of B-6 three times a day helped women cope with morning sickness.
Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times , Parents Magazine , AARP, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA. You can find her on X @ CherylMaguire05.
Sibling Rivalry?
Fostering Healthy Relationships
By Sarah Lyons
As a mom of six kids, I have witnessed my fair share of sibling disagreements. I have also had the pleasure of witnessing the heart-melting moments when siblings stick up for each other, cheer each other on, and generally love being together.
While sibling fights are normal, and even healthy, as kids learn to work through disagreements in an appropriate way, most parents want to foster strong sibling relationships that will stand the test of time. Here are some tips to help your kids build healthy, lasting friendships with one another.
Encourage Teamwork
Working toward a common goal can help people feel connected and build stronger relationships. This is why companies spend time doing team-building exercises with their staff. The same is true in families.
Give the kids a project, like cleaning the toy room or freshening up the landscaping in the yard, and have them work on it as a team. You can even try making it a competition such as challenging the kids to clean a room faster than their parents. Playing board games or backyard sports with teams can also have the same team-building effects.
Have Fun Together Spending time together as a family doing things that you enjoy is a simple way to build sibling bonds. Pick something that everyone can participate in such as a bike ride, a
movie night, or a fun outing that builds memories and relationships.
“My kids love having sleepovers in each other’s rooms each weekend,” Stephanie Loux, mom of three, said. “It makes a mess and it’s not always convenient for us as parents, but we love and encourage their excitement for spending time together.”
Healthy Conflict Settling disagreements in a healthy and respectful way is a tool that all of us need to learn to be successful. A
Spending time together as a family doing things that you enjoy is a simple way to build sibling bonds.
sibling is usually the first person in our lives that we disagree with on a regular basis.
This gives parents an opportunity to teach kids how to handle conflict. “We teach them to tell each other when they are hurting emotionally or physically,” mom of four, Abby Vanden Hull, said. “In the beginning that means helping them find the words and talk to each other kindly. It also means stepping back and letting them sort out their problems whenever possible.”
Teach your kids to listen, take turns speaking, use kind words, refrain from criticism or physical violence, and come to a compromise whenever possible. These skills will serve them well in all areas of their lives.
Do
Not Compare Your
Children As parents, it can be difficult not to compare children.
Each child has their own unique gifts to foster and challenges to face as they grow. Try to focus on acknowledging and appreciating their gifts and encouraging everyone in the family to do so.
When they are struggling with behaviors that other kids may not have found challenging, be patient and help them work through it as a family. When kids feel like their parents are comparing them, it can cause jealousy, competition, and resentment.
Alternatively, when they feel like their gifts are cultivated and appreciated they feel loved, valued, and secure. It also helps kids to understand that all of us are different and that is OK.
The Importance of Family
Our siblings are our first friends. They have a unique perspective and relationship to us because they have experienced nearly everything we
Give the kids a project, like cleaning the toy room or freshening up the landscaping in the yard, and have them work on it as a team.
have during childhood. This often leads to a relationship that includes deep understanding and support for challenges we may face in the future.
Coast Recreation and Park District Expands Offerings for Community Wellbeing
MCRPD takes pride in its longstanding programs such as the beloved gymnastics and 2nd-grade swim program. In its efforts to further enhance community engagement, MCRPD is excited to introduce new offerings, including martial arts, soccer, tennis, flag football, pickleball, beach volleyball and futsal and more to come!
To ensure the success of these programs, MCRPD is actively seeking instructors, volunteers, and sponsors. Community members interested in contributing their time or resources are encouraged to visit the stop by the office or give us a call.
As MCRPD continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to its mission of providing enriching recreational opportunities that benefit the entire community. For more information, please visit Mendocoastrec.org or follow us on Facebook.
This concept is difficult to explain to small children, however the importance of family is something that can be shown through actions rather than explained using words. Do you have a good relationship with your own siblings? Do you support them in times of need and enjoy spending time with them? Your kids will notice. Over time, they will realize that there is nothing like a sibling who is also a friend. ❖
Sarah Lyons is a mom of six children, including 9-year-old triplets. While she is an extrovert, she is a wife and mother to several introverts. She strives to encourage her kids to step out of their comfort zones while also celebrating their unique personalities.
Baby You’re A Firework!
Hosting a Patriotic Shower
By Angel Jenkins
While being pregnant in the heat of the summer may feel less than ideal, a patriotic baby shower is a way to embrace the season. After all, partnering the nation’s birthday with the birth of your baby is a great way to celebrate. Here are some ideas for an all-American themed party to welcome your little firework!
Once you’ve earmarked the date, you can proceed the same as you would for most showers, planning the menu, choosing decor, and thinking of a few activities. For showers near holidays, it is always especially important, however, to start with the guest list.
Whether your shower will be on July Fourth or just near that date,
you’ll want to let guests know well in advance so they can plan accordingly. Flights fill up over holidays, and out-of-towners will need to book in advance. Even nearby guests will appreciate the heads up so they can schedule other Independence Day events accordingly.
Some potential shower slogans this month are, “Red, White, & Due,”
“Made in America,” “Our Little Firecracker,” “Boom, Boom, Baby” or “Stars, Stripes, & Sleepless Nights!” A patriotic theme lends itself to red, white, and blue decor, which is easy to find on the Fourth of July aisles of your local party store.
Incorporate the color scheme into traditional decor, such as banners and balloon arches, then add American flags and silver stars to jazz up walls and tables. Red and
For a vintage Americana vibe, pull up a red wagon to hold shower gifts.
white flowers in blue vases or floral babies breath in coke bottles with bandana bows make fitting table centerpieces.
Etsy is also well stocked with patriotic shower items, from invitations to editable party games. Whether it’s trivia about the parents-to-be, baby bingo, a pacifier hunt, or nursery rhyme test, online printables abound and can even be found in Independence Day designs.
Set up a ballot box for guests to “cast their vote” American-election style, as they guess the baby’s gender (if it hasn’t already been revealed). Reveal the winner by having guests light sparklers that turn pink or blue accordingly.
For a vintage Americana vibe, pull up a red wagon to hold shower gifts. Hang a giant flag as the perfect backdrop for photos with guests. Dozens of songs are available for
you to create the perfect shower playlist, from Bruce Springstein’s “Born in the USA,” to “Party in the USA” by Miley Cyrus.
For the menu, consider a “Bun in the Oven” build-your-own burger or hot dog bar with all the traditional American fixin’s. Charcuterie boards featuring red meats, white cheeses, and crackers highlight a finger food table. Some food coloring turns deviled eggs into red, white, and blue snacks, too.
Fruit kabobs of strawberries, blueberries and bananas can be served as edible firecrackers and individual shortbreads or cupcakes topped with berries and cream stick to your theme. Children in attendance (or just the young at heart) will enjoy ice cream sandwiches with red and blue sprinkles dabbed along the sides for dessert!
A s’mores station is another festive food idea, while apple pie topped with vanilla ice cream is about as all-American as it gets. Fill one drink dispenser with chilled water and add floating stars cut from watermelon. Fill a second dispenser with lemonade and add lemon or strawberry slices.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to baby showers, and hosting one with a patriotic theme can make it that much more memorable. The baby need not be born on the Fourth of July to celebrate like it’s Independence Day! ❖
Angel Jenkins is feature editor for Family Life magazine and a
Join the Move Naturally Step Challenge.
July Calendar of Events
Monday 1
FREE Lakeport Kids Summer Meals. Healthy, nutritious meals for kids & teens younger than 18 years. No cost or sign-up necessary. Mondays–Fridays. Breakfast: 7:30–8:30 a.m. Lunch: 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Runs thru July 26 (excludes July 4). Terrace Middle School Cafeteria. 250 Lange St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/ muv5syzw.
FREE Fort Bragg Kids Summer Meals. Healthy, nutritious meals
Mondays–Fridays. Breakfast: 8–8:30 a.m. Lunch: 11 a.m.–11:45 p.m. Runs thru July 12 (excludes July 4). Dana Gray Elementary School. 1197 Chestnut St., Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/ muezev27.
Point Arena Tours. Indoor museum, outdoor museum, & light station. $5. Members & ages under 12: Free. Tower tour (4 yrs. or older): $5, in addition to site visit fee. 10 a.m–3 p.m. Point Arena Lighthouse. 45500 Lighthouse Rd., Point Arena. pointarenalighthouse.com.
FREE Junior Rangers@ MacKerricher Park. Ages 7–12 are invited to join a California Park interpreter to learn about history, plants, & animals. Mondays. 11 a.m.–Noon. MacKerricher State Park. (meet at picnic tables). 24100 MacKerricher Park Rd., Fort Bragg. Other Mendocino State Parks will host this event. Full schedule & registration: mendoparks.org/event-calendar-1
FREE Wings of Hope Family Bereavement Camp. Lake County families with children 5 years & older that have experienced the death of a loved one. Horse therapy,
Fourth of July Fun Catch Local Fireworks
Thursday 4
4th of July Street Fairs & Fireworks. 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Fireworks: 9:30 p.m. Street fair adjacent to Library Park. 200 Park St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/3wxmcbms.
July 4th Lawn Party & Parade.
Live music & munchies, along with margaritas, wine, & beer from North Coast Brewing Company. Non-alcoholic options available for purchase. Bring chairs & blanket for parade. No pets. Donations accepted. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Kelley House Museum. 45007 Albion St., Mendocino. tinyurl. com/5x4cr246.
4th of July Parade. Floats, dogs, horses, art cars, music, & more. Noon-1 p.m. Main & Lansing streets, Mendocino. mendocinocoast.com.
Friday 5
Annual Maxine Sherman Memorial Fireworks Display. Fireworks
launched from Clearlake Oaks Beach Park. The best views are from boats anchored east of Rattlesnake Island. Next best viewing area is from Clarks Island. Donations accepted. 9–10 p.m. Clearlake Oaks Boat Launch. 12684 Island Dr., Clearlake Oaks. tinyurl. com/e8842jnr
Saturday 6
International Worm Races, Festival, & Redbud Parade. Parade: 11 a.m. Starts at Redbud Park ends at Austin’s Park, where there will be games, carnival, & worm races (starting at Noon). Fireworks: 9 p.m. Austin Park. 14077 Lakeshore Dr., Clearlake. tinyurl.com/3vc3e4tf.
Point Arena Firework
Extravaganza. Street fair with live music, arts & crafts, & activities. Food/drink available for purchase. Fireworks at dusk. Bring flashlight & jackets. No pets. $10. Ages 12 &
under: Free. Parking at City Hall & Point Arena High School: $10 (includes one adult entry ticket). Shuttle buses available. July 1: 4–11 p.m. July 2: Parade starts at Noon. Main St., & Hwy. 1, Point Arena. tinyurl.com/yu3nd5xk.
Fireworks & Racing at Lakeport Speedway. Gates open: 5 p.m. Racing starts: 7 p.m. Fireworks: 9:30 p.m. Lake County Fairgrounds. 401 Martin St., Lakeport. thebloom.news/ big-calendar.
Fort Bragg Independence Day
Fireworks. Fireworks over Noyo After Dark. Parking: $20. 9:30 p.m.
Watch from: South Coastal Trail at Noyo Headlands, Pomo Bluffs Park, & Todd Point Parking Area, Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/2vx8cwdt
music, art, swimming, hikes, & more. No cost, but a refundable $25 deposit to hold your space (returned upon arrival). July 15–17. Hospice Service of Lakeport. Limited space, register early: 707-263-6222 or lakecountyhospice.org.
Tuesday 2
FREE Summer Lunch at the UK Library Pop-Ups. Crafts, games, STEM actvities, books, & more. Tuesdays. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Ukiah Library. 105 N. Main St., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/4yk9v6rk
Circle time at Mendo LEAP. Weekly themes, dances, songs, & stories designed for 0–5 yrs. Included in 2-hour general play admission. $15/ child. Membership options available. Each child gets 2 free adults. Tuesdays & Wednesdays. 10–11 a.m. Mendo Leap. 203 S. State St., Ukiah. mendoleap.com/classes.
Wednesday 3
Willits Frontier Days. CCPRA Professional Rodeo (July 3: 7 p.m., July 4: 4 p.m., Jack Tharp Arena, 4800 Burke Hill Rd., Ukiah): $10–$25. July 4: Parade. 11 a.m. Main St., Willits. July 5: Cowboy Breakfast (7 a.m., Rec Grove Park, S. Lenore Ave., Willits): $9–$13. Junior Rodeo (8 a.m., Jack Tharp Arena): $5–$10. Main venue: Willits Rodeo Grounds. E. Commercial St., Willits. Schedule: willitsfrontierdays.com
Thursday 4
FREE Kickin’ in the Country Summer Concerts. July 4: The Fargo Brothers. July 18: Delgado Brothers. Food & libations available for purchase. Bring blankets or low-back chairs. 7–9:30 p.m. Main St., Kelseyville. visitkelseyville.com.
Friday 5
FREE Capt’n Jack SpareRibs & Maynard. Kids of all ages & their families enjoy swashbuckling, magic, ventriloquism, & comedy galore. Snacks provided. 10:30–11:30 a.m. Fort Bragg Library. 499 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. Other Mendocino library branches will host this event: tinyurl. com/3f8m6xep.
benefits up to $30. Fridays. 5–8 p.m. 21256 Washington St., Middletown. tinyurl.com/ykx8b896.
Friday Skate Nights@MCRPD. $5 with your own skates & $8 to rent. Fridays. Younger kids: 5-7 p.m. Older kids: 7–9 p.m. All are welcome any time. Old Recreation Center. 213 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. mendocoastrec. org/skate-night
FREE Friday Night Summer Concerts.
July 5: The Bluebyrds. July 12: Fargo Brothers. July 19: Jacob Westfall. July 26: LC Diamonds. Bring blanket or low-back chairs only. Food/drinks for purchase. 6:30–8:30 p.m. Library Park. 222 Park St., Lakeport. yznua37v
FREE Dungeons & Dragons Club. Ages 13 & up. Saturdays. 10 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Redbud Library. 14785 Burns Valley Rd., Clearlake. One-time registration required. Other Lake County libraries will host this event: tinyurl.com/45e489d5
Lighthouse Lens Tours at Point Cabrillo.
reservations. $5–$10. Children 42” & taller only. Tours last 15–30 minutes. Held first weekend of each month. July 6–7. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Point Cabrillo Lighthouse. 45300 Lighthouse Rd., Mendocino. events
World’s Largest Salmon BBQ. live music, local wines, & beers. $35. Ages 12 & under: $15. No pets. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Noyo Harbor. 19101 S. Harbor Dr., Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/ ydjrxyzh.
Yoga at the Gardens. Led by certified yoga instructor Tracey Green. All-levels welcome. $15 in addition to Museum admission: $8–$20. Bring mat. Sundays. Noon–1 p.m. (Arrive at 11:30 a.m. to allow time to reach Event Lawn). Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. 18220 N. Hwy. 1, Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/mwp98e44.
FREE Saturday Clearlake Concerts. Live music & dancing. July 6: Michael Jackson Band. July 13: Boys of Summer Band. July 20: Township & Ultimate Aldean. July 27: Aquanet Band Concert. Blanket or low-back chairs only. Food/drinks for purchase. 6:30–8:30 p.m. Austin
FREE Reggae at the Lake Summer Music Series. July 6: Jwadi & Rootsman Project. July 20: Nick Sefakis & Eureka Sound. Bring your own seating. All ages welcome. BBQ & drinks for purchase. Gates open:
FREE First Fiddlers’ Jam. Listen to fiddle tunes played by members of the Northern California Old Time Fiddlers Group. Noon–2:10 p.m. Ely Barn. 9921 Soda Bay Rd. (Hwy. 128), Kelseyville. lakecountyhistory.org/ events.
Monday 8
FREE Summer Youth Art Camp. Thanks to a grant from the Lake County Wine Alliance, all youth attend for free. Age: 6–18 (age-appropriate sessions). Lucerne
(Near Anton Stadium). Tickets: flynncreekcircus.com
Saturday 13
Hot Air Balloon Classic. July 13–14. Gates Open: 4 a.m. Glow Show: 5 a.m. Main Launch: 6:30 a.m. (20 balloons participate). 4 –10:30 a.m.: Food booths, coloring contest, craft booth, kids’ play area. Tethered hot air ballons rides ($15). Single day ticket: $21. Ages 12 & under: $12. Ages 3 & younger: Free. Includes parking. Sonoma County Fairgrounds. 1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. Tickets: schabc.org.
FREE Shark Week Crafts@the library. Guided instruction on how to make Shark Porthole Suncatchers. Supplies provided. 11 a.m.–Noon. Middletown Library. 21256 Washington St., Middletown. Other Lake County libraries will host this event: tinyurl.com/49pehm87.
30th Year Celebration Konocti
Vista Casino & Resort. Carnival Fun Fair extravaganza packed with thrilling rides, indoor arcade, treats, & non-stop entertainment. Unlimited rides: $20–$25. 1–11 p.m. Konocti Vista Casino. 2755 Mission Rancheria Rd., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/yaxcnnxc.
Summer Concert Series. Family friendly. Petty Cars Band, a tribute to the Cars & Tom Petty. $25–$30. Food, drinks, beer, and wine available for purchase. Outside drink/food prohibited. 6–10 p.m. Cache Creek. 250 New Long Valley Rd., Clearlake. cachecreekvineyards.com/events
Bastille Day. French-themed event including live music, dancing, food á la française, fine wine, & song. French attire encouraged. $25–$35. Reserved
seating. 7 p.m. Soper Reese Theatre. 275 S. Main St., Lakeport. tinyurl. com/aj5ve3j6.
FREE Movies in the Park. July 13: Elemental. July 27: Dirty Dancing. Bring chairs, blankets, & picnic. Food/ drinks also available for purchase. Pre-movie activities. Movies starts at dusk. Middletown Square Park. 21257 Calistoga Rd., Middletown. tinyurl. com/5xemy35n.
Mendocino Music Festival. Musical performances from around the globe. Thru July 27. Various venues in Mendocino. Full schedule & ticket prices: mendocinomusic.org.
Sunday 14
FREE Bastille Day Celebration. Enjoy French-influenced favorites. Bistro lunch & dinner served (available for purchase). 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Ledford Restaurant. 3000 N. Hwy. 1, Albion. tinyurl.com/nfa4mx2f
Lake County Rodeo. CCPRA Pro Rodeo featuring 7 pro events plus local barrel racing & local team roping events. July 13: 3 p.m. July 14: 1 p.m. Potter Valley Rodeo Grounds. 10747 Main St., Potter Valley. lakecountyrodeo.com.
FREE Sundays in the Park Concert Series. July 14: The Real Sarahs with Alex De Grassi. July 28: Big Mountain. Blanket or low-back chairs only. Food/ drinks for purchase or bring picnic. Sundays. 6–8 p.m. Todd Grove Park. 600 Live Oak Ave., Ukiah. cityofukiah. com/sundaysinthepark.
Wednesday 17
FREE Summer Campus Tour. Tour the 38-acre campus and biodynamic farm, & learn how Summerfield integrates its campus into the curriculum at every grade. Parents only. 10 a.m –11:30 a.m. Summerfield Waldorf School & Farm. 655 Willowside Rd., Santa Rosa. Register: summerfieldwaldorf.org.
Thursday 18
FREE NCO Parent Café. Presented by Vision Family Resource Center. Discussion includes Nurturing Creativity for Parents & Kids. Parents
& caretakers learn from each other thru guided conversation. Free childcare provided. Space limited. 5–7 p.m. North Coast Opportunities. 102 Scott St., Ukiah. Register: bit.ly/ NCOVisionParentCafe
Friday 19
FREE Summer Fridays & Moonlight Madness. July 19: Indiana Jones & the Raiders of the Lost Ark. Bring blankets & low back chairs. Gates open: 7 p.m. Ukiah Municipal Pools. 511 Park Blvd., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/39dbmdhp.
Saturday 20
FREE Ukiah Community Yard Sale. Vendor: $35/space. 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Todd Grove Park. 600 Live Oak Ave., Ukiah. cityofukiah.com/communityyardsale
FREE Wheels, Wine, & Wares. Live music, local artisan crafts, & wines (for purchase). 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Art Center. 46501 Gualala Rd., Gualala. gualalaarts.org.
FREE Pollination Themed Family Fun Day. Fruit taste-test, seed balls, butterfly mask, pollinators making, & decorating bugs. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Lake County Historic Courthouse Museum. 255 N. Main St., Lakeport. tinyurl. com/ycyz3a2m
(Almost) Full Buck Moon Night Tour. Beverages & snacks provided. $50. Reservations must be made by phone no later than 3:30 p.m. three days before event. Gates opens: 8:30 p.m. Tour: 9 p.m. Point Arena Lighthouse. 45500 Lighthouse Rd., Point Arena. 877-725-4448. tinyurl.com/2p9y7w8p.
fee, but no one will be turned away because of lack of funds. No pets. Noon-8 p.m. 15051 Caspar Rd., Caspar. tinyurl.com/yjzw9eer
Friday 26
FREE Touch-A-Truck. Hands-on family event that allows children to explore unique & exclusive vehicles of all types up-close and in one place. 5-8 p.m. Pear Tree Center, 534 E. Perkins St., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/4n7pv8t4.
Saturday 27
Nature Walks. Guided tour led by MCBG Horticulturist Paul Ruiz-Lopez. Cost included with Museum admission: $8–$20. Ages 5 & under: Free. Discounts available for qualifying guests. Held the 4th Saturday of the month. 10 a.m.–Noon. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. 18220 N. Hwy. 1, Fort Bragg. Reservations required: tinyurl.com/ yc7eh7du.
FREE Shakespeare at the Lake. Lake County Theatre Company performs The Tempest. Bring low-back chair or blanket. Donations suggested. July 27-28: 7 p.m. Library Park. 222 Park St., Lakeport. tinyurl. com/2btv4bwa
Sunday 28
FREE 4th Annual CMAS Adventure Camp. Ages 7–16. Art & science, outdoor hands-on activities. Limited to 60 students & spaces fill up fast. Parent volunteers & students earning community hours welcome. 11:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Clearlake Campground. 7805 Cache Creek Rd., Clearlake. (Park at the top of the hill upon entrance.) Register: tinyurl. com/2te2vx7y.
Joy riding through another season
Every Parents Car in Summer
By Gina Rich
Ah, summer. It’s the season for mosquito bites, cold drinks on the patio, and the laughter of carefree kids splashing around the pool. It’s also the time of year when parents spend countless hours chauffeuring young children back and forth to camps, play dates, and a multitude of other activities.
As a result, here are some things I’m pretty sure will happen in my car this summer:
Sibling battles will ensue. My kids can quarrel anywhere, of course, but the car is one of their favorite locations to do so.
The car will double as a dining room. Once summer is in full swing, the lunchtime hour gets especially hectic
in our house. Between shuttling to activities and making sure we’re appropriately slathered with sunscreen and bug spray, I’m often running late. So, packing meals to eat in the car is my attempt to save time.
Someone will have a meltdown. Sometimes too much fun in the sun equals exhausted, cranky children. And cranky children often lead to frustrated parents, who aren’t immune to having meltdowns themselves.
Roughly a closet’s worth of crayons, stickers, plastic toys, and food will become lost in the abyss between the seats. I could probably entertain and feed a small village of rodents for months with what’s accumulated in the crevices of my vehicle.
Something sticky will be spilled in the backseat. Ice cream, popsicles, and lemonade are so refreshing in summer. It’s less of a treat to scrape their residue off the seats with one’s fingernails, however. (By the way, if anyone knows how to remove a melted caramel apple pop from the console, I’m all ears.)
There will be sand. Oh, so much sand. I’ll remind my kids to please shake out their shoes before entering the car, but it won’t matter. By the end of the summer, we’ll have collected enough raw material to build a respectable sandcastle.
Everyone will disagree on music. One kid likes hearing the same song on repeat, while the other prefers absolute quiet so she can “enjoy the scenery” out the window. The adults prefer Bon Jovi or Aerosmith, choices that make the backseat occupants cringe and say, “What is this old music?”
We’ll hear the phrase, “I’m bored,” many times. We might be driving a short distance or embarking on a longer road trip, but at least one child will invariably complain of boredom approximately two minutes into the journey. To which the grown-ups will respond, “Why don’t you entertain yourself by making a collage of the stuff you find in between the seats?”
All joking aside, the best part of summer is being able to spend more time with family. Wherever your travels may take you, I hope you have a safe and happy season! ❖
Gina Rich lives in Wisconsin, where she writes about parenting, health, and the natural world for publications including the Washington Post, Notre Dame Magazine, and others.
