Family Life magazine invites you to “fall into fall!” From family-friendly Halloween activities (page 26) to attending school tours and open houses (page 10), we touch on the joy of the season as well as the opportunity to learn about your child’s current (or future!) school. If your trick-or-treater has allergies, we have just the story for you (page 22) with ways to ensure the holiday is fun and safe. And, we didn’t forget that October is also ADHD Awareness Month, offering some management advice (page 20) for inside and outside the classroom.
While your student may be excited about participating in team sports this fall, other children are less interested in organized athletics. That’s why this edition shares a number of ways to keep kids healthy and active outside the traditional team scene (page 16). Last but certainly not least, an expert author takes a look at the trend toward cell phone bans in school (page 14), sharing how parents can support this movement in the name of better mental health for kids.
May the tricks be few and the treats be plentiful as we all fall into fall!
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Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts
Sarah Lyons
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Pam Moore
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Spanish Rice
Made Special
By Danielle Walker
Are you tired of scrambling to make dinner at the last minute (and resorting to unhealthy takeout or frozen dinners)? By dedicating just a couple of hours each week to meal prepping and menu planning, you can have a variety of nutritious, homemade meals readily available without spending hours in the kitchen.
This recipe has gotten the stamp of approval from my kids, gluten-free and paleo eaters, and as well as those who can eat whatever they like! While everyone’s palate and preferences are different, I am confident that everyone you cook this for will love it.
Danielle Walker is an entrepreneur, mom, and New York Times bestselling cookbook author. Danielle’s newest cookbook Make It Easy is available now. Diagnosed with a severe autoimmune disease at age 22, Danielle found health through dietary and lifestyle changes. From nostalgic comfort foods to healthy holiday swaps and quick and easy meals for kids, Danielle has thousands of recipes and kitchen, food, and parenting hacks that make life easier and healthier.
In a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat, melt ghee. Add onion and garlic and sauté for 7 to 10 minutes, until onion is translucent and garlic is golden brown. Stir in shrimp and chorizo and cook, stirring frequently, for 3 to 5 minutes, until shrimp are pink throughout. Add cauliflower rice, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes, until crisp-tender. Stir in tomatoes and peas, cover, and steam for 5 minutes, until cauliflower rice is tender.
To make aioli: While rice steams, in a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt.
Serve rice, hot, with dollops of aioli and garnished with parsley, if desired.
Refrigerate aioli up to 1 week and rice up to 3 days. Freeze rice up to 3 months.
Celebrating Lost Loved Ones
The 12th Annual Dia de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead, is a family-friendly community event. El Dia de los Muertos is a traditional Mexican and Central American tribute to loved ones who have passed away. This celebration will include altars made by the college students and staff, food, drinks, music, entertainment from Aztec dances and Folkloric dancers, kid activities, and more! Wednesday, October 23. 4-8 p.m. Mendocino College Pomo Plaza. 1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah. Find more information at tinyurl.com/5b6m5syy
Annual Luau on the Creek
The Clear Lake Chamber presents its Annual Luau on the Creek, featuring a Hawaiian dinner by Lindy’s served by Lower Lake High School FFA. A silent auction will take place, along with entertainment by Pyrophoria Fire Troupe. Sponsored tables include wine from Cache Creek Winery. Individual seating is also available. Saturday, October 5. 5:30–9 p.m. Cache Creek Vineyards & Winery, 250 New Long Valley Rd., Clearlake Oaks. Visit tinyurl.com/ yvencevd to register online, or call or email the Chamber at (707) 994–3600 info@ clearlakechamber.org for more details.
Experience an Old–World Circus
Zoppé: An Italian Family Circus, is an old–world experience 180 years in the making. Take a break from the modern world and experience Italian hospitality in this joyful celebration of life with a collection of talents from around the globe. Free tickets for eligible veterans, active–duty military personnel, first responders and their families at www.vettix.org or www.1sttix.org. General admission $31.57 online (expect a price increase at the door). Children 3 and under sitting on a parent’s lap admitted free. Friday–Monday, October 18–21 and Thursday–Sunday, October 24–27. 6–8 p.m. Redwood Empire Fairgrounds, 1055 N. State St., Ukiah. Learn more at zoppe.net .
Zoppé Italian Family Circus
Dias de los Muertos
Luau on the Creek
2024 Health and Wellness Expo
Sponsored by Sutter Lakeside Hospital, this educational health and wellness event offers fun for the entire family. Free admission, free wellness screenings and demonstrations, flu vaccines, preventative dental screenings, car seat inspection/exchange. Fire trucks, police cars, water safety demonstrations, raffle prizes for bikes, kayaks, iPads, and more. Food trucks. Kids activities. Free water bottles to first 1,000 visitors. Saturday, October 19. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Xabatin Community Park Amphitheatre. 800 N. Main St., Lakeport. Learn more at tinyurl.com/5dmtzyas
Expo Showcases Native Arts
ABreakfast Benefits Sheriffs League
Lake County Sheriffs Activities League presents its annual benefit breakfast featuring biscuits and gravy, pancakes, eggs, sausage, juice, and coffee. Prize raffle also available. LCSAL is a nonprofit organization that has served the youth of Lake County since 1997. Its staff of volunteers provide mentorship through a variety of activities and social engagements that are 100 percent funded by donations, grants and fundraisers, and through the generosity of community partners. $10 suggested donation for breakfast helps LCSA continue youth programs such as archery, boxing, fishing, kayaking, Jr. Giants, and more. Saturday, October 19. Breakfast 8–11 a.m. Kelseyville Presbyterian Church, 5430 Third St., Kelseyville. Find more information at tinyurl.com/ku646wda
n artistic celebration of the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of Indigenous communities, the Native Arts Expo showcases the creativity and talent of Indigenous and traditional artists from across the nation. Vendor booths, music, dancers, panel discussions, and more. The event provides a platform for emerging and professional artists to come together to share their stories, traditions, and perspectives with the wider community, while also learning and appreciating Native art. The event is open to the public. Friday–Saturday, October 25–26. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. daily. Mendocino Art Center, 45200 Little Lake St., Mendocino, on Northern Pomo land. Learn more at nativeartsexpo.com
Native Arts Expo
Sheriffs League Benefit Breakfast
Lake County Health and Wellness Expo
Open Houses and Tours Learn What Schools Have to Offer
By Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts
To learn what a school has to offer or know what’s going to happen in your child’s school during the year, attend any tours or open house nights on the calendar. Whether your children are in preschool or high school, this will help you make decisions about the best school for your child and give background for when you are talking to them about their school day.
While school tours give a broad overview of what a campus has to offer, open houses usually begin with a meeting for everyone in attendance, then break into smaller groups by grade or classroom. At both events, you will learn general
information about the school and its goals. Typically, you will also hear a little about the school’s parent-teacher organization and volunteer opportunities at the school.
Next, you will likely be sent to visit classrooms to meet teachers.
Before a tour or open house, ask your children if there are any special things they want you to consider.
Educators will offer an overview of what material will be covered in a class, homework and grading policies, and the role technology will play in learning. You may be introduced to teachers’ websites, where homework assignments, grades, and a calendar of events may be available.
Other topics you may learn about during tours or open houses include behavior standards and school policies. If the tour guide or teacher does not cover a topic that you are curious about, be sure to bring it up if there is a designated time for questions. Knowing school policies helps parents see if an educational institution aligns with their family perspective and also helps avoid any issues during the school year.
Before a tour or open house, ask your children if there are any special things they want you to consider. Do not skip visiting any class your children may have. It’s important for you to discover what they are doing in art, music, and gym classes as well as meeting these extracurricular teachers. Furthermore, be observant as you walk around the school. You need to see what the restrooms, cafeteria, and library are like, and the general condition of the school. The more you know about the school, the more you can understand what your children’s everyday experiences would be there.
Do not bring your children to tours or open houses unless they are specifically invited to attend. Unless it is a one-on-one campus tour, you
should not corner the teacher to talk about your children. Specific questions and concerns can be addressed by setting up conferences between yourself and teachers or administrators.
or what current parents think of the school, can aid in decisions about if a school is right for your child. Finally, make your visit to the school even more worthwhile by talking to your children about what you saw and what teachers said about the coming school year. Be sure to tell them all the appealing things you learned about the school so you can all feel good about the campus your child attends. ❖
To make tours or open houses an even richer experience, talk to other parents. Hearing what other parents are looking for in a school,
School Cell Phone Bans Supporting the Mental Health Movement
By Dr. Jenny Woo
In a time dominated by technology, it’s crucial to recognize the profound impact devices can have on mental health — especially among today’s youth. While cell phones have revolutionized communication and entertainment, they’ve also introduced a range of challenges, particularly concerning students’ mental health and well-being. This growing concern has led to a significant shift in school policies, with many states implementing cell phone bans in classrooms and campuses from coast to coast.
Pew Research Center states that 72 percent of high school teachers say cell phone distractions are a major problem. This movement reflects a growing recognition of the need to address the adverse effects of excessive phone use on students’ mental health (i.e., cyberbullying) and quality of learning (i.e., classroom disruptions).
The Rise of Cell Phone Addiction and Its Impact
Since their inception, cell phones have been celebrated for their technological advancements and entertainment value. However, these benefits come with hidden costs — namely, the mental health of our youth. As cell phone usage has skyrocketed, so too have concerns about its impact on cognitive, social, and emotional well-being. Issues such as phone addiction, decreased attention
spans, and a lack of social skills are increasingly prevalent among young people.
In response to these challenges, many states and districts now enforce school cell phone restrictions. While this policy shift might be met with resistance from students (and even some parents), it underscores the urgent need to mitigate the negative effects of constant phone use. Students may initially react with frustration or disappointment at the prospect of a phone-free school environment. Still, educators and administrators believe these restrictions are essential for promoting better focus, reducing distractions, and fostering healthier social interactions, leading to a more positive school environment.
Understanding and Addressing the Concerns
The concept of “phubbing,” a term coined from the combination of “phone” and “snubbing,” encapsulates a growing behavioral issue where individuals prioritize using their phones over having real-life interactions. This behavior undermines meaningful conversations and sets a detrimental example for children.
As a Harvard-trained educator, emotional intelligence researcher, and mother of three school-aged children, I have witnessed firsthand the adverse effects of excessive phone use on mental health and social engagement across age groups. The need to “pocket it or pause it” has never been more apparent.
The constant phone presence and reliance can contribute to several
mental health issues among students, including:
1. Increased Anxiety and Stress: The pressure to stay connected and respond promptly to messages and social media notifications can be overwhelming. This perpetual state of connectivity can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and stress.
2. Decreased Developmental Opportunities for Human Skills: With much of their communication happening through screens, students may struggle with or avoid face-to-face interactions, leading to poor social skills and emotional intelligence.
3. Sleep Disruption: Late-night phone use can interfere with sleep patterns, contributing to fatigue and affecting overall well-being and academic performance.
Supporting the Transition: What Parents Can Do
While transitioning to a no-cell phone policy at school may be challenging for students, parents play a crucial and empowering role in easing this shift. Here are some strategies to help support children through this policy change:
1. Set Clear Digital Boundaries: Establishing no-phone zones at home — such as in the bedroom and at the dinner table — can reinforce the importance of offline interactions. Consistent rules about phone use can help children adapt to similar restrictions at school.
2. Encourage Healthy Habits: Promote activities that do not involve screens, such as reading, sports,
or creative hobbies. This can help students find balance, explore new interests, and engage in fulfilling experiences beyond their phones.
3. Facilitate Open
Conversations: Discuss the reasons behind the cell phone ban with your children. Emphasize the benefits of reduced distractions and the importance of face-to-face communication.
4. Provide Alternatives: Ensure that students have access to other means of communication when necessary. For instance, they can visit the school office if they need to contact a parent or caregiver, and vice versa.
The implementation of cell phone bans in schools is not merely a policy
change but a crucial step in addressing the mental health challenges faced by today’s students. By establishing clear digital boundaries and fostering healthy technology habits at home, we can support our children in navigating a world where technology is ever-present but does not overshadow their well-being. Together with school leaders and fellow parents, we can help our children develop a healthier relationship with technology and prioritize their mental health in an increasingly digital age.
Dr. Jenny Woo is the founder/CEO of Mind Brain Emotion, incubated out of The Harvard Innovation Labs and UCI Beall Applied Innovation. She created a series of award-winning card games to help K-12 and college students and adults build skills in critical thinking, coping and resilience, emotion regulation, and social competence — used in 50-plus countries.
DID YOU KNOW?
HELPS YOU
Beyond Sports
Keeping Active Outside of Athletics
By Sarah Lyons
Team sports are a great way to keep children active but not all kids enjoy playing them. When kids avoid team sports, parents look for other ways their children can continue to be healthy and active. How can you get your kids moving around when they aren’t part of a sports team?
Encourage Lifelong Activities Choose activities that have the potential for lifelong enjoyment such as biking, swimming, walking, and hiking. These activities are great because while they can be done individually for a lifetime, they also can be
enjoyed as a family. Encourage everyone to go on a walk or bike ride together, hike in a local park, or spend the day at the pool. Get a step counter for each family member and create a friendly competition to see who can get the most steps.
If the child is doing something they enjoy they won’t even notice they are also exercising.
Go Outside Simply getting your children outside can be a great way to sneak in exercise. Visit a local park, encourage them to climb trees, swing, or play tag. Have your child go on a “treasure hunt” in the backyard and collect items that interest them like sticks, rocks, flowers, or leaves. Catching fireflies in the summer, building a snowman in the winter, or raking leaves in the fall (and jumping in them afterward) all help kids to be active while not playing a sport.
Individual Sports Just because your child does not enjoy team
sports does not mean they may not enjoy an individual sport. Gymnastics, swimming, track and field, wrestling, diving, archery, golf, or weight lifting are all good examples of individual sports where children compete against themselves.
Limit Screen Time When screen time is allowed, try to encourage them to move while they are watching TV. If a song comes on, get up and dance or march along. If they are playing video games, encourage games that involve movement. If the child is sedentary while enjoying screen time, ask them to complete some sort of activity like chores or outdoor play before they turn the TV or tablet on. Have a policy that
at least the same amount of time spent on a screen must also be spent on an activity involving movement or exercise.
Simply getting your children outside can be a great way to sneak in exercise.
Set an Example Children learn by example. If the parent has a low activity level the child will most likely see exercise as a low priority. Lead by example and get moving. Begin an exercise routine or a hobby that includes movement, like gardening, and invite your child to join you. Make the most of the time together.
Dance and Theater Turn on the music and have a family dance party. There is nothing like a great song to get a body moving. Dancing is fun and it’s great exercise too. Some children may also enjoy trying dance classes, baton twirling, or cheerleading. All of these are a great source of exercise. If your child is drawn to music and theater, get them involved in a theater production in school or your community.
Find a New Hobby Help your child find a hobby that encourages movement and activity such as skateboarding, fishing, bowling, and woodworking. If the child is doing
Play! Leisure sports can be more fun for kids that don’t care for team sports because they are less competitive and therefore have less pressure to perform at a certain level. Encouraging kids to play gets them active. Frisbee or frisbee golf,
When
avoid team sports, parents look for other ways their children can continue to be healthy and active.
tag, catch, shooting hoops, and duck duck goose all require kids to run around. Again, they will be having so much fun, they won’t realize they are exercising.
& 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.
Chores Chores are a great way to get children moving and teach them the value of hard work at the same time. Ask your child to clean their room, vacuum, mow the lawn, or sweep. Consider paying them an allowance for more motivation.
While team sports have many benefits, they are not for everyone. Children who do not enjoy team sports don’t have to be less active. With these tips, kids will enjoy an active lifestyle that can be maintained for a lifetime. ❖
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.
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 provide unique home visits for infants, toddlers, and pregnant women! (707) 462-2582 or 1-800-326-3122
We are known for our classrooms to have high teacher to child ratios
Stay Healthy This Flu Season!
The Medi-Cal Dental Program provides free or low-cost dental services for children and adults.
A healthy smile plays a big role in your overall health. Establishing good oral health habits in early childhood is the best way to fight tooth decay and the first step for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
The MediCal Dental Program provides free or lowcost dental services for children and adults.
A healthy smile plays a big role in your overall health. Establishing good oral health habits in early childhood is the best way to fight tooth decay and the first step for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Tooth decay is preventable!
Cal Dental Program provides free or lowcost dental services for children and adults. your overall health. Establishing good oral health habits in early childhood is the best way to fight tooth decay and the first step for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Tooth decay is preventable!
Tooth decay is preventable!
To find a Medi-Cal dentist, go to smilecalifornia.org/find-adentist or call 1-800-322-6384.
To find a Medi-Cal dentist, go to smilecalifornia.org/find-a-dentist or call 1-800-322-6384.
To find a Medi-Cal dentist, go to smilecalifornia.org/find-adentist or call 1-800-322-6384.
Funded by the CDPH under Contract #22-10177
Funded by the CDPH under Contract #22-10177
Funded by the CDPH under Contract #22-10177
ADHD Awareness Managing Inside and Outside the Classroom
By Cheryl Maguire
When I became a mom of boy/girl twins, I had twice as much laundry, diapers, and crying as my mom friends of singletons. What I didn’t know at the time was that I also had twice as much Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). There were plenty of clues along the way but my son didn’t get diagnosed until age 8 and his twin sister until age 15. Unfortunately, their gender differences might be one of the main reasons why there is a seven-year variance between the time that they were diagnosed. My twins recently graduated from high school and here’s what we found helpful to be successful during the past four years:
Routines are essential — The biggest issue my children have in relation to ADHD is forgetting things. On more than one occasion they would spend hours completing a project only to forget it at home.
Routines and schedules help behaviors become habits rather than things to remember. For example, they would
pack their bags the night before going to school and then place them by the front door. This way they can see them before they leave the house and remember to take them. Next to their bag would be any large projects or sports equipment.
External reminders — Another helpful tip is to use technology. There
are plenty of phone apps to help them with their ADHD but the easiest technique is to use reminder alerts. Anytime they say, “I forgot,” I respond with, “Then next time set a reminder alert on your phone.”
Regular communication with teachers — At the beginning of the school year, I always made a point to speak with all of their teachers and offered them my cell phone and email to open the lines of communication. We discussed what helped my kids to learn in previous years like a seat in
Even if a student doesn’t have an official plan, educators can work with the student to make sure the learning environment is accommodating.
the front row or visual pictures. I also let teachers know my kids truly care about school even though it might seem like they are not paying attention at times.
Furthermore, I ask to be contacted if grades are slipping or they aren’t handing in assignments. If kids are having trouble paying attention it tends to “snowball” without them realizing it. If we can prevent the avalanche, it makes for a much better school year.
Accommodations can be helpful — Children with ADHD may qualify for an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or a 504 plan. To qualify for an IEP, usually your child would need to have a learning disability diagnosis along with ADHD but
sometimes an ADHD only diagnosis is enough. IEP students receive special education services whereas students on 504 plans only have regular education services. On both plans, one can receive accommodations for ADHD, such as preferential seating, testing in a distraction-free setting, and additional time on tests or homework.
Most teachers want their students to be successful. Even if a student doesn’t have an official plan, educators can work with the student to make sure the learning environment is accommodating.
Sleep, diet, and exercise are more important than you
ask, “What time did you go to sleep last night?” Or if they were struggling to focus on their homework I might ask, “What did you eat for dinner?”
Routines and schedules help behaviors become habits rather than things to remember.
They both enjoy exercising with sports teams or strength training on their own … a physical release to balance the mental energy required to focus all day!
Teach them to advocate for themselves — My son really struggled with this when he was
advocate for accommodations that helped him be successful. During his senior year, one of his teachers told me that he asked her, “Can I please finish this project after school since I’m having trouble focusing right now?” I had tears in my eyes hearing this, knowing that he would have never done this even a year ago.
While it is sometimes OK to bring them that forgotten project, allowing them to advocate for themselves is the best lesson — and that’s true of students with or without ADHD. ❖
Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree and is a married mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, National Geographic,
Avoiding Allergies
By Pam Moore
MKeeping the Treats in Halloween
y daughter has multiple food allergies — the kind that require having an Epi-Pen wherever we go knowing our bright, curious daughter could die were she to accidentally eat a rogue cashew. At 2, she was old enough to enjoy trick or treating but too young to understand that much of her Halloween candy would have to mysteriously disappear.
Now she’s 3 and understands that she must ask before she eats anything at a party. But we’re still learning how to handle Halloween. If you’re also wondering how to enjoy trick or treating without being spooked by potential allergens, here are some tips.
Create Traditions You don’t have to replicate the Halloween of your youth for your child to love the holiday. As a parent, you have the freedom to invent your own traditions. Jennifer Roblin takes her non-allergic son trick or treating while her husband stays home with
You don’t have to replicate the Halloween of your youth for your child to love the holiday.
their daughter, who has multiple food allergies. Her daughter loves dressing up and handing out plain potato chips (which are safe for her).
Leigh Goodwin Furline, who has one child with food allergies and one without, gives her kids the option to trick or treat or not. Last year, they decided to skip trick or treating in favor of staying home to watch a movie. They also received some safe candy and a toy of their choosing.
Meet the Switch Witch Trading candy for a toy means not only can parents bypass label reading, candy sorting, and the risk of cross-contamination, but also the hassle of candy rationing. Sarah
Jean Shambo lets her son select a toy in advance, but she waits until Halloween to purchase it. Some parents call on the official Switch Witch doll, who needs candy to keep warm through the winter, to leave behind a toy in exchange for candy collected on Halloween. This limits children’s sugar consumption and helps keep food-allergic kids safe. Make a Trade If you don’t want to forego sweets altogether, consider trading your child’s candy for safe treats. If you’re concerned about the possibility of cross-contamination, you could do what mom Sarah Hodges does. Instead of sifting through all of her son’s candy and reading all of the labels, she replaces everything with Enjoy Life brand candies.
Megan McDavitt encourages her children to take non-candy or safe items if any are available while trick or treating. She lets them keep any safe candy and replaces others with No Whey brand candies. Kim
Some parents call on the official Switch Witch doll … to leave behind a toy in exchange for candy collected on Halloween.
Schmid, who has one child with allergies and one without, combines the contents of her two kids’ candy bags then sorts it. Her allergic daughter gets to keep whatever is
safe for her. The rest goes into her non-allergic son’s bucket.
Encourage Their Voice
Halloween is an excellent opportunity to give a child the chance to practice having conversations about their allergies. This Halloween, Adrianna Shook plans to help her almost 4-year-old daughter say, “Trick or treat! We have allergies to peanuts and tree nuts. Do you have something else?”
Many parents I spoke to said that they were happy to politely ask neighbors if their treats were peanut-free when their children were little but now that they’re older, the kids do it themselves. Not only that, but it turns out a little education goes a long way. Parent Charlotte Eugenio said that after a
couple of years of polite no thank you’s in a row, she noticed some houses started offering a separate selection of nut-free options.
BYOC For parents of younger kids who want their kids to experience as much of the traditional (read: allergy-free) Halloween experience as possible, a little benign trickery goes a long way. Jennifer Devine Pirozzoli usually takes her kids to the homes of other family members, which gives her the opportunity to run up to the door with an entire bag of safe candy from which her child can choose, without ever knowing that mom hand-picked it in advance. Other parents, like Victoria King, who plans to take her 2-year-old son trick or treating for the first time this fall, will carry safe treats
for their food allergic kids to munch on as they walk.
Cash for Candy There’s no reason a kid shouldn’t have the chance to cash in on his or her treats. Parents
Life with allergies can certainly be scary, but Halloween doesn’t have to make it even spookier.
like Toni Gaudisio are happy to buy back their kids’ candy. “My kids [who are 8 and 11] are allowed to swap out five pieces of candy for safe candy and the rest I buy back for 25 cents. We usually take them [shopping] a few days later to purchase toys with
their Halloween money,” Gaudisio explained.
Other parents enjoy the benefits of getting rid of candy without having to pony up — when the family dentist pays for Halloween candy each year!
Life with allergies can certainly be scary, but Halloween doesn’t have to make it even spookier. A little creativity goes a long way when it comes to making Halloween fun for everyone, no matter what they can or can’t eat. ❖
Pam Moore is an award-winning freelance writer, intuitive eating coach, and host of the Real Fit podcast. This article was originally published on Motherly. Get her free guide to improving your body image at pam-moore.com
The Redwood Empire Doll & Study Club present our annual Santa Rosa Holiday
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3 • 10AM-3:30PM
Santa Rosa Veterans Building 1351 Maple Ave. Santa Rosa (Across from the Fairgrounds) FREE PARKING
Admission $6 ($1 off with this ad) Children under 12 free with adult Lunch available on-site from Lone Pine General Store
We belong to the United Federation of Doll Clubs santarosadollshow.blogspot.com
Getting Tricky
Family-Friendly Halloween Activities
By Mary Ann Blair
Are you throwing a kid-friendly Halloween party? Or maybe just searching for different ways for your own kids to celebrate Halloween? Here are several family-friendly Halloween activities.
Glow-in-the-dark Candy Hunt
Who says Easter eggs can only be used once a year? Add glow sticks along with pieces of candy to plastic Easter eggs and hide them around your house. Turn off the lights and kiddos will have a blast hunting for glowing eggs!
Papier-mâché Pumpkin
Pinata Kids love pinatas, and making a pumpkin pinata is pretty simple to do, even for those adults who don’t consider themselves to be very crafty. The needed supplies are probably things you already have around the house — a balloon, newspaper, white glue, orange and black craft paint, and string.
Directions: Mix 1 part glue with 2 parts water. With your hands or a foam paintbrush, apply a small amount of glue mixture to the blown-up balloon. Add a small piece of newspaper (around 2” x 1”). Coat the newspaper with a little more glue mixture. Repeat this step until the balloon is covered, slightly overlapping the newspaper as you go.
Once you have the first few layers down, let the balloon dry overnight.
Add a couple more layers the next day. Once the balloon is completely dry, paint it to look like a pumpkin. Cut a small hole at the top and fill it with candy. Poke or punch two holes near the top edge, and add a strong string to hang it up.
Halloween Memory Game Cut up a few sheets of card stock into 3” x 3” pieces, and write or draw Halloween-themed words or images on the pieces of card stock. Make
End the evening with a movie night featuring your favorite Halloween movie and some treats.
duplicates so each word/image has an identical card to match. Mix up the cards and spread them out on the table. Take turns trying to find matches. Whomever ends up with the most matches gets to choose a candy treat.
Trick-or-treat at Home Close all the doors to the rooms in your house and have kids wait in one
room while you hide. Have the kids go around the house, searching for you as they knock on each door. When they find you, they get to trick-or-treat. If you have Halloween costumes from years past, dress in a different costume for each “trick-or-treat” encounter to make it even more fun for the kiddos.
Pin the Nose on the Jack-O-Lantern This is a twist on the classic pin the tail on the donkey game. Use some freezer paper or tape together four pieces of construction paper to make the game board. Draw a pumpkin on
Have the kids go around the house, searching for you as they knock on each door.
the paper along with the eyes and mouth, and the outline of the nose. Cut out triangular noses out of black construction paper and attach small pieces of tape to the back of each. Blindfold each participant, spin them around, point them toward the pumpkin and let the laughter ensue.
Halloween Movie Night End the party/evening with a movie night featuring your favorite Halloween movie and some treats. Check out your local library’s selection of movies, or see what is offered on your favorite streaming service. Happy Halloween! ❖
Mary Ann Blair is a mom of two boisterous boys. Besides chronicling her adventures in motherhood at maryannblair.com , she loves the outdoors, reading, and all things crafty.
Fun Blast!
October Calendar of Events
Tuesday 1
FREE Family Game Time. All ages. Play board games, card games, & chess. Feel free to bring games from home. Tuesdays. 2–3 p.m. Lakeport Library. 1425 N. High St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/5n6wt28d
FREE Jack & Noel’s Pumpkin Patch. Kids activities, pumpkins, & more. Prices vary per event. Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 31. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Jack & Noel’s Pumpkin Patch. 9536 Laughlin Way, Redwood. jackandnoels.com.
FREE BZP Mendocino CountyDance Fit Moai. Tuesdays. 8:30 a.m. Groove Moai: Thursdays. 6:30 p.m. Member of Mendocino Blue Zone Project. 1276 S. Main St., Willits. flourishandflowmendo.com
FREE Okinawan Karate & Kenpo Sign-ups. Sponsored by the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Activities League. Continuous classes year-round. $20 annual insurance/registration fee (waived in some circumstances). Beginner–Intermediate Youth/Adult Classes (ages 7 & up): Tuesdays & Thursdays. 6:45 p.m. Most Sundays. 1:30 p.m. Lil Dragons-Preskillz (ages 3–7 yrs): Thursdays. 6–6:30 p.m. Willits Body Works Gym & Martial Arts Center. 22751 Bray Rd., Willits. tinyurl.com/2ydatve9
Thursday 3
Just Between Friends Kids & Maternity Consignment Sales Event. The largest of its kind in
Northern CA. Admission: $4–$25. Platinum passes $75–$125. Oct. 3–4: 8 a.m.–8 p.m. Oct. 5: 8–9 a.m. (Sensory). Oct. 5: 9 a.m.–8 p.m. Oct. 6: 8 a.m.–1 p.m. (1/2 price day). Sonoma County Fairgrounds.1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. northbay.jbfsale.com
Skunk Train Pumpkin Express. Ride the train to a pumpkin patch & pick a pumpkin. Kids under 13 ride free with purchase of one adult ticket: $68.35. Ages 2 & under on laps: Free. Dogs $12.49. Departing from Fort Bragg & Willits. Wednesdays, Fridays, & Sundays. 10:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. Saturdays. 10:30 a.m., 1:30 & 4:30 p.m. Fort Bragg: 100 W. Laurel St., Willits: 299 E. Commerical St. skunktrain. com/pumpkin-express
FREE Storytime at the Library. Picture book storytime & socialization opportunities for little ones. Thursdays. 10:15–10:45 a.m. Redbud Library. 14785 Burns Valley Rd., Clearlake. Other Lake County Library Branches will host this event. tinyurl. com/5n6wt28d
Friday 4
FREE RCRC Autism Parent Virtual Group. Hosted by autism specialists Dr. Wendy White and/or Jillian Guevara, BCBA, Redwood Coast Regional Center. First Friday. Zoom meeting ID: 995 2860 5123.10–11 a.m. tinyurl.com/t3u746e3
FREE Storytime at the Library. Songs, storytime, activities, & socialization. A perfect way to get the little ones ready for Kindergarten.
10:30–11 a.m. Willits Library. 390 E. Commercial St., Willits. Other Mendocino Library Branches will host this event. tinyurl.com/bdfwj7jj.
FREE Moms & Mocktails. Paint your pumpkin spice mug with Small Town Ceramics. Space limited. Call to reserve your spot: 707-995-3565. 1 p.m. Lower Lake Museum. 16435 Main St., Lower Lake. tinyurl.com/5aue3hcd.
Fort Bragg – Skate Nights. Admission: $8 if you bring skates; $10 to rent skates. Friday, October 4: Adults only. Fridays, October 11 & 25: All ages family skate. Saturday, October 26: Adult only Halloween Skate. 6–8 p.m. Old Rec Gym. 213 E. Laurel, Fort Bragg. tinyurl. com/443jtb7z
South Coast – Family Skate Nights. Admission: $8 if you bring skates; $10 to rent skates. Also Friday, October 18. 6–8 p.m. Point Arena High School Auditorium. 270 Lake St., Point Arena. tinyurl.com/443jtb7z
Saturday 5
Sponsoring Survivorship 2K/5K Walk & 5K/10K Run. $30. Proceeds benefit local women & men in their treatment against breast cancer. Refreshments & raffle prizes. Donations accepted. Registration: 7–8 a.m. Race starts promptly: 9 a.m. Xabatin Community Park Amphitheatre. 800 N. Main St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/hcxvf88f.
FREE Storytime at the Farmers Market. Hosted by the Ukiah Library.
Saturdays. 10–11 a.m. Alex Thomas Plaza. 300 State St., Ukiah. tinyurl. com/v33nyje5.
FREE Fall Plant Sale Fundraiser. No admission fee or reservations required to shop the sale. Runs thru Oct. 11. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily. Botanical Gardens 18220 CA-1. Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/4cnbehms.
FREE Ladies of the Lake Guild Show. Featuring the work of local Kerrie Hershey. $10. Ages 12 & younger with adult: Free. Oct 5: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Oct. 6: 10 a.m–4 p.m. Lake County Fairgrounds. 401 Martin St., Lakeport. llqg.org/ quilt-show-2024.html.
Lighthouse Lens Tours at Point Cabrillo. Tours are first-come, first-serve, no reservations. $5–$10.
Children 42” & taller only. Tours last 15–30 minutes. Last tour of the season until April 2025. Oct. 5–6:.11 a.m.–2 p.m. Point Cabrillo Lighthouse. 45300 Lighthouse Rd., Mendocino. pointcabrillo.org/visit/events
FREE STEM Days at the Museum. Stop by to learn how science & history intersect. All ages welcome. Oct. 5 & 19: Noon–2 p.m. Courthouse Museum. 255 N. Main St., Lakeport. tinyurl. com/3n38tyxb
FREE Annual Friend’s Fall Fest
Fundraiser. A family-friendly event with food, music, & fun. Free for members of the Friends of the Mendocino County Museum. If you’re not yet a member, admission includes a year-long membership for $20. 4–6 p.m. Mendocino County Museum.
400 E. Commerical St., Willits. tinyurl. com/4ekr94x8
Cinema in the Vineyards. Outdoor screening of Wizard of Oz. Bring chairs & blankets. $15–$25 per person. Ages 2 & under: Free. Dinner $20–$30 (vegan options) & concession snacks available. No outside food/ coolers. Gates: 5 p.m. Film: 6:30 p.m. Pennyroyal Farm. 14930 Hwy. 128, Boonville. Reservations suggested: tinyurl.com/yhr8ffaw
Annual Luau on the Creek. Entertainment by Pyrophoria Fire Troupe. Hawaiian luau dinner. Silent auction. Reservations required. $100 per person. Hawaiian attire encouraged. 5:30–9 p.m. Cache Creek. 250 New Long Valley Rd., Clearlake. tinyurl.com/2u33h3kn
FREE Movies in the Park. Oct. 5: UP. Oct. 31: Casper. Movies start at dusk. Clearlake Youth Center. 4750 Golf Ave., Clearlake. tinyurl.com/m8w6cuj7
Sunday 6
FREE First Fiddlers’ Jam. Listen to 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 7
FREE Mendocino County Blue Zone Project Walking Moai. A moai is a group of 5–8 people who walk together at least once a week. Mondays. 1–1:30 p.m. Meet-up: Mendocino College Pomo Plaza. 1000
Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah. mendocino. edu/calendar
FREE Lake County Blue Zone Project Walk & Roll Walking Moai. Mondays: 5:15–5:45 p.m. through Nov. 11. Meet-up: Xabatin “Big Water” Community Park. 800 N. Main St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/5n7jwk6w
Tuesday 8
Coding Club. Explore coding languages, platforms, & devices. Ages 8–16. No experience necessary. 2nd Tuesday of the month. 3:30 p.m. Ukiah Lbrary. 105 Main St., Ukiah. 707-463-4490.
Wednesday 9
Haunted Gingerbread House Building for Teens. Build your own haunted gingerbread house, using
festive candy, icing, and other tasty decorations. 7th–12th grade. Space limited. Registration closes at 2 p.m. day of event. Activity is from 3–4 p.m. Sonoma Valley Regional Library. 755 W. Napa St., Sonoma. tinyurl. com/2ar2ad62.
Thursday 10
FREE Food Pop-up. Sponsored by Mendocino Food & Nutrition Program. Noon-1 p.m. Round Valley Family Resource Center. 76300 Grange St., Covelo. Questions: 707-964-9404 or Outreach@ fbfoodbank.org. tinyurl.com/bdcxhsrb.
Saturday 12
FREE Annual Fall Classic Car Show. Vote for your favorite car. Live music. Craft vendors & BBQ
YEARS
Trunk or Treat & a Movie! at Clearlake Youth Center
Thursday October 31, 5:30–8pm (or until candy runs out)
Casper the Friendly Ghost: 6pm Clearlake Youth Center • City of Clearlake
FREE Halloween Walk & Crafting Party. Take a short walk while reading A Halloween Scare in California with your kids. Crafting Halloween activity afterward. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Clear Lake State Park Visitor Center. 5300 Soda Bay Rd., Kelseyville. tinyurl.com/3vj4m9v5
FREE STEM Days at the Museum. Stop by to learn how science & history intersect. All ages welcome. Oct. 12 & 26: Noon–2 p.m. Gibson Museum. 21267 Calistoga Rd., Middletown. tinyurl.com/4xe8vk7k
Sunday 13
Fall Harvest Festival. Local craft vendors, food/drink, plant sale (fee). $20 per person donation. Proceeds benefit local community. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Clearlake Grange. 1510 Big Valley Rd., Finley. tinyurl.com/ bwjfc4h5.
Tuesday 15
FREE Hispanic Heritage Celebration. Traditional Hispanic music, dance, arts, crafts, & food. Hosted by the Mendocino Blue Zone Project & Mendocino College. 10 a.m.–Noon. Mendocino College Pomo Plaza. 1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/2s498w2m
Wednesday 16
FREE Kid’s Crafts. All four Lake County Library branches hold this event the 3rd Wednesday of the month. Supplies may be limited. 3:30–4:30 p.m. Pre-registration & branch locations: tinyurl.com/2xhu284t
FREE Fall Festival & Pumpkin
Giveaway. Open to all Native American families. Contests, games, face-painting, raffles, dinner, & treats. Drive-thru option for pumpkin pickup. 3–6 p.m. Lake County Fairgrounds. 401 Martin St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/ mr3ukyr9
Thursday 17
FREE Cooking Moai. Hosted by the Mendocino Blue Zone Project & Mendocino College. 10 a.m.–Noon. Mendocino College Coast Center.
Sunday, October 31st 4:30-6:30pm Parking
THURSDAY OCTOBER 31ST
-10
Questions:
1211 Del Mar Dr., Fort Bragg. tinyurl. com/33hfestm
Sugar Skull Workshop for Kids. Decorate a sugar skull in celebration of Día de los Muertos. Kindergarten to 6th Grade. 4–5:30 p.m. Various dates/times available at other library branches. Roseland Regional Library. 470 Sebastopol Rd., Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/45bnr92s
FREE Youth Mic Night. Multicultural music program for families. Instruments available to use. All ages welcome. 3rd Thursday of the month. 6–8:30 p.m. CMAS Activity Center. 15210 Lakeshore Dr., Clearlake. tinyurl.com/4peb8pw6.
Friday 18
Zoppé Italian Family Circus. General admission tickets (alongside bleachers): $31.57. VIP tickets available on zoppe.net. Lap seating by ages 3 & under: Free. Oct.18, 21, 24–25: 6 p.m. Oct.19–20, 26: 1, 4 & 7 p.m. Oct. 27: 1 & 4 p.m. Redwood Empire Fairgrounds. State St., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/y9rc4my7.
FREE Ukiah Country Pumpkin Fest. Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off. Cash prizes. 4–7 p.m. Alex Thomas Plaza. 300 State St., Ukiah. cityofukiah.com/ pumpkinfest.
FREE Pumpkinfest–Down the Rabbit Hole. Fire Safety Expo, children’s stage & activities, baking contests, scarecrow display, haunted house, pet costume contests. Wine & beer garden (fee). Oct. 19: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (Parade: 10 a.m.) Oct. 20: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Downtown Ukiah at School Street. cityofukiah.com/ pumpkinfest.
Saturday 19
Lake County Sheriffs Activity League Benefit Breakfast. $10 per person donation. Raffle prizes available. Proceeds benefit local youth. 8–11 a.m. Kelseyville Presbyterian Church. 5340 Third St., Kelseyville. tinyurl.com/4th4v4z4.
FREE Health & Wellness Expo.
Fun interactive booths, kids play area, free health & dental screenings & free Flu vaccines. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. New location: Xabatin Community Park Amphitheatre. 800 N. Main St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/5dmtzyas
FREE Saturday Movie Matinee. Screening of Despicable Me 4. Popcorn & water provided. Please arrive a few minutes early. Movie starts promptly: 3–4:45 p.m. Round Valley Branch Library. 23925 Howard St., Round Valley. tinyurl.com/46fwr6wc.
(Almost) Full Hunter’s Moon Tour. Special presentation on the Light Station’s history & technology. Beverages & snacks provided. $50. Reservations must be made by phone no later than 3:30 p.m. three days before event. Gates opens: 7 p.m. Tour: 7:30 p.m. Point Arena Lighthouse. 45500 Lighthouse Rd., Point Arena. 707-882-2809, ext. 1 or pointarenalighthouse.com/visit.
Wednesday 23
FREE Día de los Muertos Family Festival. Also know as Day of the Dead. Features altars created by college students. Music, performances by the Aztec dances & Folkloric dancers, kids activities, food/drinks, & more. 4–8 p.m. Mendocino College Pomo Plaza. 1000 Hensley Creek Rd.,
Ukiah. More information: marketing@ mendocino.edu or 707-468-3012.
FREE Sharktober: Celebrating Sharks of the Northeast Pacific. Virtual science talk, hosted by marine biologist & shark advocate, David McGuire. Noyo Center of Marine Science. 6–7:30 p.m. Register for Zoom link: tinyurl.com/hamsxwuz.
Thursday 24
Flynn Creek Circus presents The Heavy Lift. A rurally based, award winning circus bringing international talent to the North Bay. Tickets are sold by chair, table, or bench, regardless of age of attendees. $18–$185. Lap seating by ages 3 & under: Free. Doors open 30 minutes before show. Oct. 24: 7 p.m. *Oct. 25–26: 7 p.m. (*Adults 21+ only). Oct. 26: 4 p.m. Oct. 27: 1 & 4 p.m. Anderson Valley Brewing Company (lawn). 17000 Boonville Rd., Boonville. Tickets: flynncreekcircus.com
Friday 25
FREE Native Arts Expo 8. Celebration of the rich cultural heritage & artistic traditions of Indigenous communities. Donations accepted. Oct. 25–26: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Mendocino Art Center. 45200 Little Lake St., Mendocino. tinyurl. com/3uk9rvma.
Haunted House of Horrors. 3D Logging Camp Masacre. $10–$20. Proceeds benefit local community service projects. Oct. 25–26: 7–10 p.m. Oct. 31: 6–10 p.m. (Less scary for ages 10 & under: 6–7 p.m. Must be accompanied by an adult.) Fort Bragg Lions Hall. 430 E. Redwood Ave., Fort Bragg. Reservations: hauntedhallofhorrors.com
Saturday 26
4th Annual “Y I Run” Fun Run & Walk. Raises domestic violence awareness with every step. All proceeds used in Sonoma County. Saturday, October 26. Registration: 9 a.m. Costume contest: 9:30 a.m. Run/ Walk: 10 a.m. Approximately 2.3 miles route. Spring Lake Regional Park Swimming Lagoon Area. 393 Violetti Rd., Santa Rosa. tinyurl. com/49uusbs4.
FREE Lakeport Harvest Festival Street Fair. DJ & live music, line dancing, children’s crafts, pumpkin decorating, corn hole tournament, scarecrow contest, vendors, games, races, & performances. Food, beer, & wine (fee). 11 a.m.–6 p.m. 140 N. Main St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/3cdj75nu.
Hallowfest. Cookie decorating, carnival game booths, scavenger hunt, sensory booth, & more. Suggested donation: $10 per person; $20 for families. Noon–4 p.m. Nice Event Center. 2817 E. State Hwy. 20, Nice. tinyurl.com/4s64w6kp
FREE Historic Planes Display. Stroll amongst the display of historic airplanes. 4th Saturday of the month. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Lampson Field Airport. Highland Springs Rd., Kelseyville. tinyurl.com/dd6c329s.
FREE Magic Market. Live music, craft booths, local vendors, costume parades for dogs, kids, & more. Costumes encouraged. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Downtown Fort Bragg. Laurel St. & Redwood Ave. Fort Bragg. tinyurl. com/3mn9bp9a
Trashlantis. Free immersive experiential discovery festival. Celebrating a zero waste future with
workshops, activities, and events including an UP Cycle Bike Rally, Trashlantean beauty pageant, and a fix-it clinic. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Sebastopol Community Cultural Center. 390 Morris St., Sebastopol. trashlantis.com
Neurodiversity Night/Noche de la Neurodiversidad at LEAP. Meet ’n’ greet with local experts & advocates. Pizza provided while supplies last. Bilingual. Admission: $15. Scholarships available. RCRC families: Free. Last Saturday of the month. 4:30–7 p. m. Mendo Leap. 203 S. State St., Ukiah. mendoleap.com/classes.
Sunday 27
FREE Fall Festival. Admission is free, but attractions such as a rock wall, food, drinks, & sweets (fee). Proceeds benefit the Ukiah Junior Academy. Noon–4 p.m. Ukiah Junior Academy. 180 Stipp Ln., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/ m6hvdnuv.
FREE Halloween Carnival. Carnival games, cookie walk, cornhole toss, preschooler activities, free hot dogs. Hosted by the Middletown Lioness Club. Costumes encouraged. 2–5 p.m. Middletown Central Park. 15399 Central Park Rd., Middletown. middletownlions.net.
FREE Treat or Treat Main Street Kelseyville. All welcome. The street will be shut down for a block party, local merchants give out treats to costumed kids. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Main Street. Kelseyville. visitkelseyville.com
Opus Chamber Music Concert. Featuring flutist Ráyo Furuta & Grammy Award-winning pianist Michelle Cann as they celebrate 12 years of duo collaboration. $30. 3–5 p.m. Preston Hall. 44831 Main
St., Mendocino. Tickets: tinyurl. com/33teppe7
Monday 28
Wear costumes and enjoy the Spooktacular Halloween for Kids. Spooktacular Storytime: 10:30–11 a.m. Carnival Games: 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Drop-in Trick or Treat: 1–5 p.m. Fort Bragg Library, 499 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/3tasb778
Mushroom Habitats Class. Led by naturalist & mycologist Mario Abreu. Indoor instruction followed by a brief field walk. Class size is limited, advanced reservations are required. Non-members: $35 includes admission. Members: $25. 1–3 p.m. Botanical Gardens. Farm House. 18220 CA-1, Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/mrywhmb2.
Thursday 31
The Enchanted Pumpkin Path. $10 per person. 4:30–8 p.m. 6280 3rd St., Calpella. Tickets: mendocinowaldorf.org
FREE Trunk or Treat. First Presbyterian Church of Ukiah. Come in a costume, photo op, games, & candy. All welcome. 4:30–7 p.m. Ukiah First Presbyterian Church. Parking lot corner of S. Dora & W. Perkins Streets, Ukiah. 707-468-9235.
FREE Trunk or Treat & Movie at the Youth Center. Treat-or-treating (or until candy runs out). Screening of Casper the Friendly Ghost. Treat (outside): 5–8:30 p.m. Movie (inside): 6 p.m. Clearlake Youth Center. 4750 Golf Ave., Clearlake. tinyurl. com/3zm7j3jd.
Calm Before the Storm
Beware of ‘Everything is Fine’
By Shannon Carpenter
’Twas a clear night on the home seas. My crewmates, three kids who believed in their captain, completed their duties. Swab the deck, maty! Stow the shoes! Tie off the yardarm! Seas were tranquil. Until the skies darkened.
A nor’easter blew in without warning. The gods of the seas are vengeful.
“Is everything alright?” I asked the storm.
“Yes. Everything is fine,” the storm said, but I sensed an albatross, that omen of a sea bird. The storm was our punishment, yet we had no idea why.
“Batten down the hatches!” I screamed to my crew. And aye, the crew did as they were told, but a little bit too well. They went to their rooms and closed the doors. I could hear my teenage daughter moving her dresser to block the threshold. Coward. I would face the storm alone.
“Um, are you sure?” I asked the storm.
“Yes! Everything is fine!”
Every experienced captain of a family knows that the storm lies. It deceives you with tranquil waters that churn chaos underneath.
“Are you hungry?”
The storm crackled and threw out her thunder!
“No!” The storm said.
“Are you sure?”
“I said no!” the storm retorted. “Did you not hear me?”
“OK, got it.” A captain must learn to abandon hopeless courses, so I changed my heading.
“Hey, how about we go out tonight?” I shall make an offering to the storm to spare my crew, cowards that they are.
“Maybe,” the storm said, somewhat mollified.
“And then we can talk about what has made you so angry?”
“I said everything is fine!” the storm bellowed, a rogue wave hitting me broadside.
“I don’t believe you,” I said. “Please, dear storm of the seas, please. Spare me this watery fate that only leads to Davy Jones’s locker!”
“I had a dream that you bought an old pirate ship and didn’t even talk to me about it.”
“A dream?” I cautiously inquired.
“Yes, a dream. I know it doesn’t make sense.”
“No kidding,” I said, and again, regret became my companion.
“Don’t you think I know that! Look, everything is fine!”
’Twas a rough voyage. The crew made it away on a lifeboat to a movie but I could not leave; I would not. A captain goes down with the ship. I tied myself to the mast, otherwise known as the couch, and delved into the depths of the storm’s dream and how wrong I was to buy a pirate ship. Eventually, the storm blew itself out and I brought her nachos. Turns out the storm was very hungry.
Take heed, fellow mariners, be listening for “Everything is fine,” because when the phrase blows in like a Kraken, everything is not fine; not fine at all. And then I can only wish you Godspeed. Godspeed! ❖
Shannon Carpenter is a professional humorist and the author of The Ultimate Stay-at-Home Dad: Your Essential Manual for Being an Awesome Full-Time Father
