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Just because spendy can be trendy doesn’t mean gift-giving season needs to break your budget. For children, especially, it is important to have the chance to give heartfelt gifts at little or no cost. Find our piggy bank approved ideas in this issue (page 14)!
While kids look forward to opening presents on Christmas morning, reminding them of the reason for the season is essential. Convincing kids of the joy of giving can be easier said than done, but Family Life offers advice on the matter (page 16). Seven tips for managing holiday chaos (page 12) help
parents and children hold on to the true spirit of the holidays, too.
’Tis the season of lots of sweet treats, but Momma Chef gives families a pie recipe that’s actually a winter squash souffle (page 8). Easy and healthy, this recipe is dairy-free, nut-free, sesame-free and vegetarian.
After all the hustle and bustle, families have to get back into the pre-holiday routine and head back to school. Saying goodbye to winter break doesn’t have to be so hard, thanks to our suggestions in this edition (page 18). Here’s to “wrapping up” 2024 and ringing in the new year well!
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Join us over school break for specialty camps in sports, gymnastics, fencing, archery & sword, STEM using Lego, arts & crafts, hand sewing, and more. ®
Cooking with
Super Simple Squash Souffle
Butter-nut miss it!
By Momma Chef Karen Nochimowski
When I saw this dish on a dinner buffet, I thought it was a mistake. Why was there a pie nestled between a platter of chicken and a green salad? Didn’t it belong on the dessert table near the brownies and cookies? My friend corrected me, letting me know that the “pie” was actually her winter squash souffle.
Slightly sweet, this souffle is now a winter family favorite, pairing nicely with any main dish I’ve thrown its way. Through the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe to make it easier and healthier (decreasing the sugar and substituting whole wheat flour), but it’s still just as delectable. This recipe is dairy-free, nut-free, sesame-free and vegetarian. If making this gluten-free use a GF pie crust or omit the crust. ❖
Karen Nochimowski is the author of the cookbook 6-Minute Dinners (& More!), featuring more than 100 simple recipes. Karen started and runs Momma Chef’s Soup Kitchen and Momma Chef’s Little Free Pantries. Part of her cookbook proceeds go toward feeding those facing food insecurity.
Simple and Delicious Squash Souffle
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Serves: 8 pieces
10-12 oz package cooked winter squash (defrosted and drained)*
½ cup whole-wheat flour
⅓ cup sugar
3 eggs
¼ cup softened margarine or melted coconut oil
1 graham cracker pie crust
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
In a large bowl, using a hand mixer, blend together the drained squash, flour, sugar, eggs, softened margarine until well blended.
Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until the top is firm and brown.
*You can find the cooked winter squash in the freezer section of most grocery stores. If you cannot find this, Whole Foods carries a canned organic butternut squash that can be used. The squash Soufflé will be a bit denser and you need to increase the cooking time to 1 hour. I have used this before and it’s a great substitution.
R E G ISTE R TOD AY schulzmuseum.org/classes-camps (707) 284 –1273
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• BiblioBus stops 2301 Hardies Lane
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New Tradition On Ice
Petaluma’s inaugural outdoor skating rink joins other downtown traditions – from Santa’s Riverboat Arrival to the annual Gingerbread Showcase to the snow falling gently into the courtyard of the Hotel Petaluma every December. Rink runs Friday, Dec. 13, 2024–Tuesday, January 7, 2025, with daytime and evening skating, event and facility rental and more on the only real ice, covered outdoor skating rink in Sonoma County. The ice rink will be located parallel to East Washington Street in the Fairgrounds main parking lot. After you’ve enjoyed the ice, head downtown to warm up with a hot meal or a drink at local restaurants or finish your shopping at one of many locally-owned shops. Learn more at cityofpetaluma.org/lumaice.
Chanukah Lights Up the Night
This larger-than-life, free Chanukah Celebration features a mega menorah, the world’s largest dreidel, a deejay spinning Chanukah music, fire juggling, crafts, interactive games, latkes, and jelly donuts. And don’t forget the helicopter set to drop gold-foiled chocolate coins! Sponsored by the Chabad Jewish Center of Petaluma for a 10th year, the festival of Chanukah is all about the power of light over darkness. Sunday Dec. 29 from 4:30–6 p.m. at Sonoma-Marin Farigrounds. 175 Fairgrounds Dr., Petaluma. No cost but registration required at tinyurl.com/2eey89ew
Holiday Family Movie Night
Come enjoy the holiday classic, A Christmas Story, at the Polly Klaas Theater’s free Family Movie Night. Commiserate with main character Ralphie Parker as he tries to convince everyone that the Red Ryder Air Rifle really is the perfect christmas gift … despite warnings that it will put his eye out. Popcorn and beverages will be sold. No tickets necessary. Thursday, Dec. 12, from 6:30–9:30 p.m. Polly Klaas Community Theater. 417 Western Ave., Petaluma. Learn more about this and other showings at pollyklaastheater.org/events.
Chanukah Celebration
Luma Ice
Posada Navideña Comes to Life
Rodney Strong Dance Series presents Posada Navideña by Calidanza Dance Company. Kick off the holiday season with vibrant dance and music performances taking you to different regions of Mexico. Join Artistic Director Steven Valencia and the Company for this tradition-filled, high-spirited holiday celebration. Friday, Dec. 13. Tickets to the public performance include free arts and crafts in the lobby starting at 5:30 p.m. and a free Posada celebration immediately following the 6:30 p.m. show. Tickets range from $7.08 to $14.16. Luther Burbank Center for the Arts. 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. Purchase tickets at tinyurl.com/4tc3et5t
A ‘Wonderful’ Radio Play
Join George Bailey and his guardian angel, Clarence, in this delightful adaptation of the beloved holiday classic, It’s a Wonderful Life, presented in the style of a 1940’s radio broadcast. This heartfelt tale is a journey of love, life, and loss reminding us of every person’s value. The story extols hope while highlighting the preciousness of every day and the joy of caring for one another. Tickets range from $14 to $30. Make it a holiday to remember Fridays-Saturdays through Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees through Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. Spreckels Performing Arts Center. 5409 Snyder Ln., Rohnert Park. Purchase tickets at tinyurl.com/2kk53hth
Ring in the New Year
Ring in the New Year with the Peanuts gang. Fun crafts for kids, balloon Snoopy making, and Happy New Year, Charlie Brown! screening in the Charles M. Schulz Museum Theater. Do your best Snoopy dance and ring in 2025 with a Baby Balloon Drop (for kids 4 and under and their families) at Noon, and a second Balloon Drop at 3 p.m. for all ages. Cost is included in Museum admission. Free for Members. Tuesday, Dec. 31. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Capacity will be monitored; admission will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Please allow time for parking and entry. tinyurl.com/mwa7tk4y
Posada Navideña
It’s a Wonderful Life
Happy New Year, Charlie Brown!
Manage Holiday Stress Seven Practical Tips for
Parents
By Rebecca Hastings
The holiday season is magical — twinkling lights, excited kids, family traditions, and the joy of giving and receiving gifts. But for many parents, this time of year also brings a side dish of stress. The pressure to make everything perfect, ensure everyone is happy, and handle the demands of work, family, and holiday events can overwhelm even the most organized parents.
Here’s how you can manage holiday stress and actually enjoy the magic this season brings:
1. Let Go of Perfection — With the quest for perfect decorations, the ideal family photos, and flawlessly executed meals, it’s easy to feel like you have to meet an impossible standard. But the truth is, perfection isn’t what makes the holidays special. It’s the memories, the laughter, and the shared experiences that will stand out to your kids.
Tip: When things don’t go as planned, take a deep breath and laugh it off. Show your kids that it’s okay when things aren’t perfect—it’s part of what makes life fun and interesting!
2. Create Meaningful, Low-Stress Traditions — Think about the simple things your family enjoys and turn them into cherished traditions. This could be anything from decorating the tree together, making homemade ornaments, or
watching a favorite holiday movie as a family.
Tip: Ask your family what their favorite holiday activities are and let them guide which traditions you keep and which ones you might let go. You’ll be surprised how often the simplest traditions are the most treasured.
3. Set Realistic Expectations (for Yourself and Others) — This holiday season, give yourself the gift of setting realistic expectations. Prioritize what matters most to you and your family, and let the rest go. By setting boundaries and focusing on a few key priorities, you’ll feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
Tip: Before the holiday season kicks into full swing, sit down with your partner and discuss what’s truly important to your family. Make a list of your top priorities and set boundaries for how much time, money, and energy you’re willing to spend on different activities.
4. Delegate and Accept Help — Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks to your spouse, older kids, or even other family members. Whether it’s asking your partner to handle the gift wrapping, getting your kids involved in decorating, or assigning dishes for family potlucks, sharing the workload can help reduce stress.
Tip: Create a family to-do list and assign tasks to each person. Make it fun by turning certain chores into a game or rewarding the kids with holiday-themed treats for their help.
5. Take Care of Yourself —
Prioritizing your physical and mental well-being is essential to keeping holiday stress in check. Make sure
you’re getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and eating well during the holiday season.
Tip: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, step outside for some fresh air. Even just a few minutes of alone time can help you reset and approach the rest of your day with a clearer mind.
6. Remember What Matters
Most — Amid all the busyness, it’s easy to lose sight of what really matters during the holidays—spending time with the people you love. The presents, parties, and decorations are all secondary to the joy of being together.
Tip: If you start to feel overwhelmed, stop and ask yourself: “Will this matter a year from now? Or will my kids remember how we laughed
together, even when things didn’t go as planned?” Shifting your perspective can help reduce stress and refocus on what’s truly important.
Tip: At the dinner table, ask each family member to share one thing they’re thankful for that day. It’s a quick and easy way to bring gratitude into your holiday routine.
Keep the Joy in the Holidays — This holiday, give yourself permission to relax, savor the little moments, and create memories that will last a
7. Practice Gratitude
is a powerful tool for reducing stress, and it’s especially meaningful during the holiday season. Take time each day to reflect on the things you’re thankful for, whether it’s a quiet moment with your kids, a warm home, or the chance to celebrate with loved ones.
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Piggy Bank Approved
Gifts Kids Can Make and Give
by Kimberly Blaker
As the holidays approach, are your kids scrounging to buy gifts they can’t afford? If so, offer them these fun ideas to make gifts from the heart.
Tell a story with photos. Create a memory page to add to a friend or relative’s scrapbook. Buy a package of blank scrapbook pages. Then choose a theme such as ‘my best friend,’ ‘sports car shows’ or ‘when I was little.’ Design each page using stickers, markers, colored pencils, construction paper, photos, magazine pictures, and fun sayings or descriptions that fit your theme.
Service coupons. Offer a free evening of babysitting, a week of taking out the trash, making your sister’s bed, pet sitting, lawn mowing, ironing, or another task you can do.
Shape decorative soaps. Grate bars of inexpensive white soap. Then mix approximately one-half cup of warm water with a cup of shredded soap. Add food coloring to the water to create colored soap. Knead the mixture. Add additional warm water as necessary until it forms like dough. Next, fill cookie cutters with the mixture. Or flatten it on a sheet of waxed paper and trim into shapes. Let the soap dry slightly. Then press with small leaves or other designs. Allow the decorative soaps to dry for 24 hours, flipping them occasionally.
Design your own pens and pencils. Purchase sheets of large white labels and cut them into 1½-inch strips. Design the pieces with colored markers. Then wrap the design around the length of the pens or pencils. Personalize them by adding a
Homemade gifts will be treasured long after any present that came from a store!
smaller label to the center of the pencil with “World’s Greatest Grandma” or another catchy phrase. To protect your pencil design, wrap it with transparent clear tape.
Make a placemat. Choose a subject of interest to your gift recipient, such as model cars or Barbie dolls. Clip pictures from magazines and catalogs. Then glue them to an 11” x 17” sheet of paper. Overlap the images to create a collage or spread them apart and share details about each. When you’re done, laminate the design with self-adhesive laminating sheets or have it laminated at an office supply.
Create bookmarks. Cut colored paper into 2” x 7” strips then design the pieces with colored pencils and markers. Or clip fancy border from magazines. Find out your gift recipient’s favorite author, artist, or historical figure. Then look the person up in a book of quotations. Select a quote, type or write it out, and add it to the bookmark. Then laminate it for protection.
Give magnetic photos. Cut a piece of cardboard from a cereal box to match the size of your photo. Then
glue it to the back of your photo for support. Last, glue a small magnet to the cardboard. Now you have a photo magnet.
Construct a puzzle photo frame. Cut a piece of firm cardboard to your desired size of the frame. Then ask an adult to trim out the center with a razor knife, leaving a 1” to 2” thick frame. Next, trace the outside edge of your frame onto another piece of thin cardboard, and cut it out. Place a sheet of colored paper between the two pieces of cardboard. Next, glue the paper and two pieces of cardboard together. Glue jigsaw puzzle pieces around the frame, overlapping each other to cover the entire thickness of the frame. Let the frame dry. Then brush a layer of glue over the puzzle
pieces to prevent them from falling off. Stick your photo in the opening of the frame with double-sided tape. Give a poster. Find out your friend’s favorite rock star, actress, or sport. Then tear three or four
Compose a memory book. Buy a composition book from the office supply. Cover it with construction paper, then design and decorate the cover. Inside, write your memories of special times you’ve had with the person to whom you’ll present it. Memories might include a trip to the zoo, a favorite holiday celebration, a special gift, something funny, and lots of other experiences you’ve had together.
Homemade gifts will be treasured long after any present that came from a store! ❖
full-page photographs or pictures from magazines. Trim the tattered edge, then laminate for a durable glossy poster.
Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online bookshop, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions; fine bindings; ephemera and more at sagerarebooks.com
Our program for students in K-5th grades provides farm, nature, and art-based experiences during local schools’ early-release hours, as well as for home schooled children. Engaging activities and projects are introduced continuously, following themes that are inspired by the children’s and teacher’s interests. Homework support and a snack are provided.
Wed. 1pm-4:30pm, extended care available 11:30am-1pm
175 West Sierra, Cotati 707-664-5347
sandyloam.org/enrichmentprograms
Heart of the Holidays Teaching Kids the Joy
By Terri Lilga
Tof Giving to Others
he holidays are a festive time of year where your senses come alive to the sights, scents, sounds, treats, and hands-on activities that vie for your attention. Families step up from busy to busier with decorating their homes both inside and out, shopping, wrapping, baking, planning, and attending special events. With the hustle and bustle of striving to get your holidays “just right,” the true meaning of why we are celebrating in the first place can get lost.
The heart of the holidays isn’t found in a colorfully wrapped gift-box or tissue paper-accented gift-bag. It isn’t delivered by an Amazon truck driver. It isn’t a gift that one can exchange or return for a refund. It is something unique in that the more you share it with others, the more it enriches you. And, it’s free …
The heart of the holidays is found in generosity. Qualities of generosity include kindness, thoughtfulness, selflessness, and being mindful of others. A simple act that can be almost effortless for you, can make a significant impact on another person. As spontaneous as paying for a stranger’s cup of coffee, generosity
is given without expectation of reciprocation.
Children have an innate sense of wanting to help and please. What a wonderful opportunity then, to show them by your everyday actions what generosity looks like. Kids can participate with you in practically all of the ways you choose to be generous. Donating to a food bank? Children can add your donations to the bins. Sending a card to cheer up a neighbor?
Being given consistent opportunities to practice generosity is an invaluable asset for kids as they grow into adulthood.
Include a picture your child has drawn specifically for them. Assembling holiday care packages with church members to help struggling families or community members who are alone? Invite your kids along to help while they learn some organizational and sorting skills in the process.
Generosity facilitates active and interactive participation among community members, which leads to a stronger community. It generates the power of connection while modeling for others how to give and receive graciously.
The greatest gift we can give to others is ourselves and our time. Be encouraged to think beyond traditional gifts and consider some of these practical, impactful ways to give back to others during this holiday season … and beyond.
Acts of Service — Children can volunteer at a local shelter, food bank, library, or participate in a community cleanup or donation drive. In addition to developing a sense of social responsibility, volunteering teaches children the joy of sharing their time with others.
Sharing Gratitude — Encourage kids to share something they are grateful for each day of the holiday
The heart of the holidays isn’t found in a colorfully wrapped gift-box or tissue paper-accented gift-bag.
season and to find ways to express their gratitude to the people around them, whether through a conversation at dinner, a handwritten note, or perhaps keeping a daily gratitude calendar.
Spreading Kindness — Create kindness challenges through which kids are encouraged to be kind: Donating toys, giving compliments, or baking treats for local first responders and other workers.
Being given consistent opportunities to practice generosity is an invaluable asset for kids as they grow into adulthood. At the holidays and beyond, every act of generosity helps shape the world in a positive way. ❖
Terri Lilga held a 30-year career as an elementary school teacher in the same school district from which she graduated. Her first children’s book, Santa’s Simon, was inspired by her desire to write a Christmas book with a unique twist, but mostly to highlight a message of faith, courage, and the transformational power of kindness.
Never
Blanket Forts to Backpacks
Saying Goodbye to Winter Break
By Jill Morgenstern
Snuggled between the end of December and the beginning of January comes every child’s real favorite holiday: Winter break! What a wonderful time to reset and relax. Bedtimes may be later, restrictions on electronics may be more lax, even chores might not be done as strictly or on schedule. But every good thing has to come to an end sometime, and usually it’s shortly after New Year’s Eve. However, there are some ways to make the transition back to school an easier one.
Plan a play date — If your child is overwhelmed by the thought of having to reintegrate into a classroom full of children, meeting with a friend one-on-one might help them remember the good parts about classroom life.
Helping children get set to go back to school involves both physical and mental needs.
Play “Back to School” — For Kindergarten and preschool, it may help help to role-play going back to school. If you do this in an entertaining, lighthearted way, it can be fun and your child may have no idea you were getting him or her ready all along.
Reintroduce school time rules — If you are able, begin to implement the old screen time or
The return to school can be much harder on some children than others, but all can benefit from a little self-care.
bedtime rules a few days ahead of time. That way it won’t come as such a shock to your child when school restarts.
Create a schedule together — This can be helpful at any time, but it’s especially important when looking forward to a new year. It is particularly important if your child does sports or other activities. Make sure to squeeze in time not only for homework, but also for breaks. Completing this task together gives your child a sense of empowerment throughout his or her day.
Review notes — If your child is in upper elementary or middle school, the last couple of days of winter break is a great time to review notes, especially in classes where your child may be struggling. However, this review should be short enough not to frustrate your child. You want memories of winter
break to be warm and welcoming, not full of strife and struggle.
Grocery shop — Collect plenty of snacks and get everything ready for lunches for the new year! This will make your mornings easier and keep morning mayhem at bay.
Organize your child’s study space — Pencils and paper will be much easier to find if they are in their customary place. If winter break was a messy, chaotic success, the house might be a total mess! But carving out this one little sanctuary will help those first few days of homework go that much smoother.
Plan self-care — The return to school can be much harder on some children than others, but
all can benefit from a little self care. Whether it’s playing with a much-loved stuffed animal or pet, coloring, or taking a relaxing bubble
bath, self care activities can reduce stress, making the transition back to school that much easier.
Set a bedtime routine — If you haven’t set one before now, this is the perfect time to set a bedtime routine. A relaxing bedtime routine can benefit everyone from the smallest babies up to their parents and even grandparents.
Whether it is reading stories, dimming the lights a little before bedtime, or having a soothing bath, this helps your child’s body know it’s time to get ready to sleep.
Helping children get set to go back to school involves both physical and mental needs. By gradually adjusting their schedules from home to school, children can thrive rather than struggle during a time that is well known for causing problems adjusting. By keeping children involved in this process and keeping communication open, families can promote a smooth and positive start to the new school term. ❖
Jill Morgenstern is a mom to four and a teacher. She has a Master’s degree in teaching reading.
California law requires children entering TK or kindergarten to have these immunizations:
Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus (DPT)
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
Varicella (Chickenpox)
Hepatitis B
Polio
SCAN TH E CODE
TOLEARNMORE
December Calendar of Events
Sunday 1
Winter Lights Rink. Using no water or power, eco-friendly for holiday fun. Open rain or shine. 50 Old Courthouse Square, Santa Rosa. Full schedule: Downtownsantarosa.org/ winterlights.
FREE Holidays Along the Farm Trails. Farm Tours, handmade gifts, cut your own Christmas tree, workshops, & tastings. Most stops
Coddingtown Santa Photos. Runs thru Dec. 24. Coddingtown. 733 Coddingtown Center, Santa Rosa. Complete schedule: tinyurl. com/77n4nvju.
Santa Rosa Plaza Santa Photos. Santa Rosa Plaza. 1071 Santa Rosa Plaza, Santa Rosa. To reserve date & time, visit tinyurl.com/528ejdec
Mr. Skunk & the Giant Christmas Tree. Enjoy seasonal treats on a journey through the redwoods to visit the world’s largest Christmas tree. Tickets start at $68.35. Infants (2 and under)
ride on lap for free. Various dates & times thru December while seats last. Departing Willits. 299 E.Commerical St., Willits. Skunktrain.com.
S.T.E.A.M. Room. Children can explore activities & materials that introduce them to the basic principles of science, technology, engineering, art, & math. Designed for children 5+. Free with Museum admission. Daily admission is required, discounts may apply. Sundays & Mondays: 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Children’s Museum of Sonoma County. 1835 W. Steele Ln., Santa Rosa. cmosc.org/calendar.
Season-long skating with themed sessions including Pajama Party, Ugly Sweater, Groovy Holiday Disco, and Nightmare Before Christmas!
Weekend Santa Sightings at Montgomery Village. Photos with Santa. $10 donation benefits the non-profit Sonoma County Secret Santa Program. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Thru Dec. 22. Montgomery Villages. 911 Villages Ct., Santa Rosa. Registration suggested (cannot guarantee walk-ups): tinyurl.com/a57mk6p6.
FREE Horse & Carriage Rides. Enjoy family fun, live music, and carriage rides. Weather permitting through Dec. 24. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Historic Railroad Square. 9 Fourth St., Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/4xu53zw5.
Holiday Market. Local crafts & food. Photos with Santa: $5. Proceeds benefit Casa Grande students, faculty, and staff. $2 entry fee suggested donation. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Casa Grande High School. 333 Casa Grande Rd., Petaluma. tinyurl.com/5b479dar.
Cirque de Bohème. Disco Circus Holiday Spectacle. $38–$59. Runs thru Dec. 29. These are the final performances of Cirque de Bohème, concluding an 11-year run in Sonoma County. CornerStone Sonoma. 23570 Hwy. 121, Sonoma. Complete schedule: cirquedeboheme.com.
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas the Musical. Performed by the 6th Street Players. Tickets range from $29–$55.95. Runs thru Dec. 22. G.K. Hardt Theatre. 52 W. 6th St., Santa Rosa. Complete schedule: 6thstreetplayhouse.com
Annual Festival of Lights. Gardens illuminated with holidays lights. $10. Ages 16 & under: Free. Fridays–Sundays. 5–7 p.m. Thru Dec. 22. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. 18220 Highway 1, Fort Bragg. gardenbythesea.org.
Tuesday 3
FREE Holiday Makers Fair. Handcrafted items from local vendors including wood working, pottery, kitchen ware, spices, jewerly, & more. 3–7 p.m. Hotel Petaluma Ballroom. 205 Kentucky St., Petaluma. barbercellars.com/holidaymakersfair.
Friday 6
FREE Winter Art Market. Shop more than 50 artists’ work. Enjoy festive entertainment, treats, & more. Dec. 6: 5– 7 p.m. Dec. 7: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Dec. 8: 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Sonoma Community Center. 276 East Napa St., Sonoma. tinyurl.com/2zb7b84u.
Saturday 7
Luther Burbank 43rd Holiday Open House. Tour the home decked out in holiday finery & enjoy homemade cookies. Persimmon bread available for purchase. Admission: $5. Ages 11 and younger: Free. Dec. 7–8: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Luther Burbank Museum.
Santa Rosa & Sonoma Avenues, Santa Rosa. lutherburbank.org
Cotati Shop & Stroll. A vibrant marketplace featuring local artisans with holiday-themed booths, entertainment, and prizes. Hosted by Cotati Certified Farmers Market. 1-7 p.m. La Plaza Park. Old Redwood
Hwy. & W. Sierra Ave., Cotati. tinyurl. com/mrbz7pxz
FREE Christmas Craft Fair. Variety of handmade gifts, fashion accessories, and home goods. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Faith Lutheran Church. 19355 Arnold Dr., Sonoma. tinyurl.com/4b5yu2u6.
FREE Handmade Holiday Crafts Fair. Featuring 90 local artisans. Admission: $5. Ages 12 & younger: Free. Rosie the Trolley provides free transportation to and from the event to the Luther Burbank Open House. Note: Admission fee required at both events. Dec. 7–8: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Finley Community Center. 2060 W. College Ave., Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/ tw4ppzpt
Sewing Creations. Children can explore the art of textiles and learn how to hand-stitch or use a sewing machine. Materials provided. First Saturday of the month. Free with Museum admission. Daily admission is required, discounts may apply. 1–3 p.m. Children Museum. 1835 W. Steel Ln., Santa Rosa. cmosc.org/calendar.
The Nutcracker. Performed by the Classical & Contemporary Dance. $29–$37. Dec. 7: 5 p.m. Dec. 8: 2 p.m. Spreckels Performing Arts Center. 5409 Snyder Ln., Rohnert Park. Tickets: tinyurl.com/5xkk7cye
FREE Forestville Holiday Faire. Arts & craft booths, holiday music, food/drinks for purchase. Ugly sweaters & light-up holiday accessories enouraged. 3–7 p.m. Downtown Oaks Park. 6990 Front St., Forestville. tinyurl.com/4makruyn.
Kids Night at the Museum. Pizza, movie, games, cartooning, & holiday crafts. Ages 5–10. $40. 10% sibling
discount. Members receive 20% off the per-child fee only. 5:30–9 p.m. Charles Schulz Museum. 2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa. Advance registration required: tinyurl.com/yc4jut9a.
Sunday 8
Visit with Caring Santa. A special, sensory-friendly experience exclusively for children with special needs and their families. 8:30–9:30 a.m. Santa Rosa Plaza. 1071 Santa Rosa Plaza, Santa Rosa. Reservations required: tinyurl.com/2vzaf98e.
FREE Kids’ Menorah Workshop. Build your own menorah out of wood and decorate it. Parental supervision required. Hosted by Chabad Jewish Center of Petaluma. 10:30 a.m. Wilco, 1390 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma. Space is limited. Register: tinyurl. com/3zz2wwcm.
FREE Holiday Art & Makers Market. More than 45 artisans selling ceramics, apparel, decorative household items, photographs, & more. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sebastopol Center of the Arts. 282 S. High St., Sebastopol. tinyurl.com/ y67vcaph.
Thursday 12
FREE Family Movie Night. Screening of the holiday classic, A Christmas Story. Popcorn & beverages sold. 6:30–9:30 p.m. Polly Klaas Community Theater. 417 Western Ave., Petaluma. pollyklaastheater.org/ events.
Friday 13
Luma Ice, Petaluma’s Outdoor Ice Rink. 5,600 sq. ft. of real ice. $10/person for 90 minutes. One adult required per 5 kids under 18. Sonoma–Marin Fairgrounds. 100
FREE Winter Festival. Live music, cookie decorating, shopping, photos with Santa. Food/wine available for purchase. 5–8 p.m. Downtown Plaza. 126 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale. tinyurl.com/24sj29be
Annual Posada Navideña. Calidanza Dance Company, dancers and musicians will perform traditional Mexican holiday songs. $7.08–$14.16. $2 lap pass for ages under 2 available only on day of show. 6:30 p.m. Luther Burbank Center. 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. tickets. lutherburbankcenter.org/0/5337.
The Nutcracker. Featuring the Petaluma School of Ballet & North Coast Ballet. $28.30–$38.80. Dec. 13: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14: 1:30 & 6:30 p.m. Dec. 15: 1:30 p.m. Evert B Person Theatre. Sonoma State University. 1801 E. Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. Tickets: petalumaschoolofballet.com
Saturday 14
FREE Wreaths Across America. Ceremonies across America to honor veterans. Local cemeteries in Cloverdale, Santa Rosa, Sebastopol, Petaluma, Sonoma, St. Helena, & Yountville will participate. wreathsacrossamerica.org.
Holiday Pajama Party with Santa. Wear your favorite holiday pajamas. Kids (ages 3-6) enjoy cookie decorating, hot cocoa, a holiday story, festive music, and dancing. $10 per child. 9–10 a.m. or 11 a.m.–Noon. Finley Community Center. 2060 W. College Ave, Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/ mrxrevxz.
FREE Gingerbread House
Workshop. Parent & child work together to decorate Snoopy’s doghouse. Dec. 14: 10 a.m.–Noon . (Ages 3–6). $40. Dec. 14 & 15: 1–4 p.m. (Grades 1–6, no adult required). $40. Members receive 20% off the per-child fee only. Charles Schulz Museum. 2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa. Registration required: tinyurl. com/r5xt62vw.
FREE French Christmas Market. Live music, local artisans, pastries, treats, wine, and hot chocolate for purchase. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Old Courthouse Square, Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/bdz8w5ya.
The Snow Maiden. Sonoma Conservatory of Dance performs choreographed Russian folktale. $15–$30. Dec. 14-15. 1 p.m. Sebastiani Theatre. 476 1st St. E, Sonoma. tinyurl. com/dyxxkcfs.
A Crescent City Christmas. Performance by NOJO7, holiday favorites with a New Orleans twist. Enjoy festive tunes and NOLA classics with the whole family. $30–$90. 7:30 p.m. Weill Hall. Green Music Center. 1801 E. Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. gmc.sonoma.edu/adonis-rose.
Sunday 15
North Pole Express @ Cline Cellars. Board a festive train for cocoa, cookies,
Santa storytime, photos, and kids’ activities. Ages 3 and up: $15. 1–3 p.m.
Cline Family Cellars. 24737 Arnold Dr., Sonoma. Tickets: tinyurl.com/ mry3682z.
San Franciso Gay Men’s Chorus Holiday Spectacuar 2024. This concert blends musical excellence with favorite tunes, humor, dancing, and festive cheer. Tickets sell out fast.
$30–$117. 5 p.m. Weill Hall. Green Music Center. 1801 E. Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. tinyurl.com/uzuhdvkm.
Tuesday 17
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet. Performed by an international cast of classical European ballet stars, featuring acrobatics, puppets, and hand-crafted sets and costumes. $43.66 and up. 7 p.m. Luther Burbank Center. 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/8bt4jazp
Friday 20
The Nutcracker. Performance by the Santa Rosa Dance Theater, led by artistic director Christa Christianson, presents a refreshed, modern production. Tickets: $27–$33. Dec. 20: 7 p.m. Dec. 21: 2 & 7 p.m. Dec. 22: 2 p.m. Spreckels Performing Arts Center. 5409 Snyder Ln., Rohnert Park. Tickets: tinyurl.com/2efpf5wu.
Saturday 21
A Christmas Carol, The Musical. A joyous new holiday tradition with Roustabout Theater’s Apprentice Program, featuring actors aged 11-20 years. $30.38–$35.40. Dec. 21: 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Dec. 22: 2 p.m. Luther Burbank Center. 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. tinyurl. com/426ec2wj.
Wednesday 26
FREE Family Hike @ Sugarloaf Ridge Park. Docent-led 2-mile nature hike. Learn about plants, animals, & aquatic life. Parking: $10. 10 a.m.–Noon. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. Meet at Visitors Center. 2605
Family Winter Discovery Hike. Led by Naturalist L. Wagner. Hike, sensory activities, and meditation. $10/ person + $10 parking. Bring a pen/ pencil. Rain cancels. 10 a.m.–Noon.
Jack London State Historic Park (meet in ranch parking lot). 2400 London Ranch Rd., Glen Ellen. tinyurl.com/ y28ysxc8
FREE Chanukah Celebration. A mega menorah, the world’s largest dreidel, DJ playing Chanukah music, fire juggling, crafts, latkes, & jelly
donuts, plus a helicopter will drop gold-foiled chocolate coins. Sponsored by the Chabad Jewish Center of Petaluma. 4:30–6 p.m. Sonoma-Marin Fairgrounds. 175 Fairgrounds Dr., Petaluma. Register: tinyurl. com/2eey89ew.
Cirque de Bohème
Monday 30
FREE Light Up The Night Chanukah Festival. Featuring live music, grand menorah lighting, latkes & doughnuts, crafts & prizes. 4–6 p.m. Presented by Chabad Jewish Center. The Village at Village Court. 911 Villages Ct., Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/cfpwekxk.
Tuesday 31
Happy New Year, Charlie Brown! Up-Down Balloon Drop & Baby Balloon Drop. Ages 4 & younger: Drop at Noon. Second balloon drop at 3 p.m. Included in price of admission ($5–$12). Free for members. Doors open at 10 a.m. Admission first come/ first served. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Charles Schulz Museum. 2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/2x979s3v
NYE Classical Voices Celebration. Concert at 7 p.m. Stay for hors d’oeuvres, champagne, onstage dancing, and a midnight countdown! $103.95. 7–8:15 p.m. G.K. Hardt Theatre. 52 W. 6th St., Santa Rosa. 6thstreetplayhouse.com.
Masquerade New Year’s Eve Party. Music and dancing, masks encouraged. $25. Must be 21+. Hosted by the Cloverdale Performing Art Center. 7:30–10 p.m. Ball drops: 9 p.m. (New York time). Cloverdale Grange Hall. 201 Commercial St., Cloverdale. tinyurl.com/52jwb22s.
Christmas ’80s Style
Singing Through the Best Decade
By Katy M. Clark
Feeeeed the woooooorld. Let them know it’s Christmas time!” I sing aloud in the car.
Unimpressed, my teenage daughter questions, “Why is that even a Christmas song?”
Amidst the tunes of glad tidings and joy, it is a bit odd to sing about famine in Ethiopia.
I explain how Bob Geldof mobilized the biggest pop stars of the ’80s to perform this song, using MTV to spur everyone, including a young teen in Arizona (me!), to help.
I recount purchasing the 45 record, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band Aid with proceeds going to relief efforts. Then I remind her what a 45 record is and promise that MTV was relevant.
During Christmas in the 1980s, I spent hours flipping through
catalogs to find my dream gifts, circling what I wanted in the ToysRUs Big Book or Sears catalog.
One year, I wanted a Cabbage Patch doll. My mom had to physically go to a store, stand in line, and do her best impression of a linebacker to procure one. Imagine that, a world without Amazon Prime.
I loved visiting the mall at Christmas, brimming with shoppers and decorated to the hilt. When I was little, my mom would take me there to see Santa. As a a teen, I still waved at Santa while shopping for stirrup pants at Express, eating sausage samples at Hickory Farms, and buying cassettes at Sam Goody.
Christmas in the ’80s meant every gift was wrapped in wrapping paper. Gift bags did not exist. Grandma yelled if I ripped the paper when opening a gift because she carefully
saved wrapping paper to reuse, year after year. Also yarn ribbon, like Raggedy Ann’s hair, was re-used for bows.
“Who’s Raggedy Ann?” my teen questions.
Moving on, I tell my daughter how I baked cookies from recipes written by my grandma’s hand, rather than ones found on TikTok. I still prefer them to anything online. I tell her I will pass them on to her one day.
After baking, I watched Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, A Charlie Brown Christmas, and John Denver with The Muppets. It required effort, flipping through the TV Guide, to find the show’s air date and time, and make sure I parked in front of the TV to watch it the one time all season it aired. There was no DVR or streaming service!
Just then “Frosty the Snowman” comes on the radio. I look at my daughter, who smiles back at me.
“I know this one, Mom,” she says, and we sing the classic together.
Next time Taylor Swift’s cover of “Last Christmas” plays, I’ll tell my daughter why the Wham! version is the best. Because it’s from the ’80s, of course. ❖
Katy M. Clark is a writer and mom of two who embraces her imperfections on her blog, Experienced Bad Mom. This article was originally published by Your Teen for Parents , the premier resource for parents of teenagers.
