December 2012 Family Spectrum Magazine

Page 1

featuring

Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Providing Great Care for Kids

PLANNING YOUR

12 Days of Fitness TEEN VOICES

The Importance of Family


The besT place for kids.

Malicka, age 5 Tricuspid Atresia

Visit childrensomaha.org for more information on how we can help your child. For a pediatrician, family physician or pediatric specialist, call 1.800.833.3100.



editor’sletter

T

Volume 8 • Issue 4

he chill is in the air. Thank God

we have so many fun things to do in the month of December to warm

our hearts! While pulling out the Christmas tree and hanging up the stockings, try to think of this holiday season as a time to create tradiNatalie Jensen Photography

tions, a time to give to others, and a time that you bring your family together. I am as guilty

as the next person for wanting to get things checked off my “to-do” list, but last year I had a revelation while watching my kids open up Christmas gifts. Even though I tried to put together the money for the latest electronic gift and get my kids “everything” on their list, to my surprise,

Publisher • Todd Lemke Vice President • Greg Bruns Omaha Publications Editor • Linda Persigehl Family Spectrum Editor • Bailey Hemphill Family Spectrum Contributing Editor • Paige Edwards Assistant Editor • Chris Wolfgang Art Director • John Gawley Senior Graphic Designer • Katie Anderson Assistant Graphic Designer • Paul Lukes Account Executives • Gwen Lemke, Gil Cohen, Greg Bruns, Paige Edwards, Vicki Voet, Sandy Besch Sales Assistants • Alicia Smith Hollins, Jessica Linhart

their favorite gift was something I put together at the last minute to add something to their stockings. I made handwritten coupons that they could use throughout the year. A couple of examples: “Get Out of Jail Free,” “Backrub,” “Pick the Family Movie,” “Use Phone Until Midnight,” and so on. All three of them agreed they loved this the most. They are still using them, and they didn’t cost a thing! So be creative, save some money, and connect with your kids. Family Spectrum is doing a little celebrating of its own. On this issue’s cover, we feature Children’s Hospital and the amazing work they do to care for children year-round. Make sure you read the touching Family Success and Young Hero stories this month. The two are connected and will help you see how one family’s generosity can change the life of another’s. Also, Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska has been touching lives for 120 years. Thank you, LFS! I am wishing you a loved-filled holiday season~

Paige

Paige Edwards, Contributing Editor, Family Spectrum paige@omahapublications.com

On the Cover Thanks to Natalie Thomas, RN, and patient Titus DeKoster of Children’s Hospital for being on this issue’s cover. Photo by: Bill Sitzmann

Operations • Tyler Lemke Accounting • Jim Heitz Warehouse Distribution Manager • Mike Brewer Principal Photography • Bill Sitzmann, Scott Drickey Advertising • Omaha Publications, 402-884-2000 Editorial Comments • Paige Edwards, paige@omahapublications.com Please send contributions to bailey@omahapublications.com Original contributions become the property of Omaha Publications. Contributions cannot be acknowledged or returned. The information contained within Family Spectrum is for informational purposes only. It is not intended and should not be used to take the place of seeking professional advice, counsel or assistance. Omaha Publications makes no endorsement of and is not responsible for contributors or advertising herein. If you have concerns or questions related to your health, consult with you physician. Family Spectrum is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission of Omaha Publications,

402.884.2000. Owned and managed by Omaha Magazine, LTD

we the women

live.love.grow 4  •  editor’sletter

Find us on www.Womego.com, an integrated online community that gives women access to a great wealth of content from the journalists, bloggers, and community leaders you already know and trust.

Family Spectrum Magazine • • • •    December 2012

familyspectrum •


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content  •  5


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Holiday

Gift Guide Luxurious CHiLDrEN Gift sEts startiNG at $18.00!

Shown in the Sassy Shaylee collection—this set includes a Quilt, Decorative Pillow and (2 Burp Cloths. Visit us at www.onegraceplace.net for a full list of products offered for infants and youth! One Grace Place. 12120 Port Grace Blvd. #101, La Vista, NE 68128. 402-911-9966

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Our gourmet gift baskets include an assortment of delicious cheeses, crackers, chocolates, and other culinary delights expertly paired with wine, beer or spirits for a truly unique and personal gift. With both pre-made and custom options available, our gift baskets are a thoughtful gift for clients, colleagues, friends and relatives. Prices range from $25 and up. Spirit World. 7517 Pacific Street, Omaha, NE 68114. 402.391.8680. www.spiritworldwine.com

6  •  content

• • • •  December 2012

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live•love•grow

CONTENTS december 2012

coverfeature

14

14 Children’s Hospital

& Medical Center: Providing Great Care for Kids 11

9 10 11

12 13 14

ear infections snack station: healthy snack mix air travel with children: what is the law and what is “best” practice? pump iron into your child’s diet planning your 12 days of fitness children’s hospital & medical center: providing great care for kids

23 19 20 21 22 23

24

what’s on your mind? family spectrum’s family success story young hero: mallory bultsma hope is not a privilege create family traditions at boys town this holiday season calming an angry child: some basic dos and don’ts

25 25 26 27 28 29 30

family spectrum’s creative corner family spectrum’s writer’s corner family spectrum’s teacher of the month teen voices: the importance of family december 2012 event calendar on the go: family-friendly events for a merry holiday season

• readonlinenow.com  December 2012   • • • •

content  •  7


live•love•grow

You can help

create a safe, loving environment for children in our Foster Care program. Contact us. Learn more. Training, mentoring networking and 24/7 support (402) 451-0787 www.NCHS.org

Roasted Beef Crostini with Wasabi Sour Cream Ingredients

2 pounds beef shoulder tender petite roasts (8 to 10 ounces each) 1 teaspoon black pepper

Garlic Bread:

6 tablespoons butter, melted 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley ½ teaspoon garlic salt 1 (12-inch) baguette, cut into 24 (½-inch thick) slices

Wasabi Sour Cream:

1 container (8 ounces) dairy sour cream 1 tablespoon prepared wasabi paste

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 425°F. Press pepper evenly onto beef roasts. 2. Place roasts on rack in shallow roasting pan. Do not add water or cover. Roast in 425°F oven 20 to 25 minutes for medium rare to medium doneness. Remove roasts when instant read thermometer inserted into thickest part of roast registers 145°F for medium rare or 160°F for medium doneness. Let stand 5 minutes before carving. 3. Meanwhile combine butter, parsley and garlic salt in medium bowl. Place baguette slices on two 15 x 10 x 1-inch jelly roll pans. Brush tops with butter mixture. While roasts are standing, toast baguette slices in 425°F oven for 8 minutes or until golden brown.

The invitations have arrived and your calendar is beginning to fill up. That means only one thing…it’s the holiday season! And whether you’ve got a date or not, you’ll arrive with the dreamiest “arm candy” of all. Enter the party with one of our simple beef recipes in hand and you’ll be the envy of all the guests.

4. Combine dairy sour cream and wasabi paste in medium bowl until well blended. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. 5. Thinly carve roasts into medallions and evenly layer over toasted garlic bread slices. Top with 1 teaspoon Wasabi Sour Cream.

8  •  content

BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com • • • •  December 2012

familyspectrum •


Treating Ear Infections • Antibiotics can be prescribed by your physician. • Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used for pain relief. Refer to your doctor on the correct dosage of over-the-counter medications. • Follow-up exams are very important to make certain the middle ear fluid has resolved.

Ear Infections

D

uring the cold and flu season, many children will develop an ear infec-

tion due to fluid trapped in the middle ear. Most children will have at least one ear infection, but over one-fourth of these children will have repeated ear infections. Children are most likely to have ear infections between the ages of 6 months and 2 years, but they continue to be a common childhood illness until age 8.

Symptoms of Ear Infections • Irritability and poor sleep • Fever • Trouble hearing • Imbalance • Pulling at ear (in combination with the above symptoms) • Yellow/foul-smelling fluid draining from ear

Persistent middle ear fluid may result in temporary hearing loss, which may increase the risk for delayed speech development. If this is your child’s second or third ear infection, your doctor may prescribe a stronger medication to eliminate the bacteria. If the antibiotics do not clear the infection or a child has recurring ear infections, your physician may insert tympanostomy tubes as another alternative. These tubes help drain the fluid from the ear and are typically in place for one year and will eventually come out on their own. Ear tube surgery usually decreases the frequency of ear infections and during an infection allows the fluid to drain—decreasing temporary hearing loss and pain. Antibiotic eardrops may be used to treat ear infections, reducing the use of oral antibiotics. Boys Town Ear, Nose & Throat Institute recommends a followup exam with your doctor 2-3 weeks after your initial visit. Ear infections are less common as your child gets older. They also are less common in children who are not in day care.

Preventing Ear Infections • Protect your child from second-hand tobacco smoke. • Reduce your child’s exposure to colds during the first two years of life as much as possible. • Breast-feed your baby during the first 6 to 12 months of life. • Bottle-feed your child at a 45-degree angle. • Discuss any significant symptoms of reflux such as excessive spitting up or stomach pain with your physician as reflux is a SPECTRUM risk factor for recurrent ear infections.

family

Written by: Heather Gomes, M.D. Boys Town Ear, Nose & Throat Institute Heather J. Gomes, M.D. is a Board Certified Otolaryngologist at the Boys Town Ear, Nose & Throat Institute located at 555 N. 30th Street, (402) 498-6540. Get more information on pediatrics topics and meet Dr. Gomes at www.youtube.com/boystownhospital.

• readonlinenow.com  December 2012   • • • •

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Deaconness Institute c. 1900

Food and photo by: Katie Anderson Fremont Orphanage c. 1893

www.LFSneb.org

120 Years of service

Thank you for your support of Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska.

Healthy Snack Mix

W

ant a popular (and less fatten-

ing) snack during the holidays? Your family will be sure to love this recipe for a healthy Chex Mix® of your own!

Ingredients • 2 cups rice Chex • 1 cup wheat Chex • 1 cup corn Chex • 1 cup pretzels • 2 tbsp coconut oil • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce • ¼ tsp coarse sea salt Optional ¼ tsp ingredients (for extra flavor) can include: pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, Jamaican jerk seasoning, or chipotle seasoning. Or tone it down by skipping the Worcestershire and instead add 1 cup peanuts and ½ cup of M&Ms.

Instructions • Preheat the oven to 350°. • In a large bowl, gently mix (with your hands) the Chex and pretzels. Then, in a small bowl, mix the oil, sauce, salt, and/or seasoning with a spoon. Pour oil mix over the cereal, stir until covered. • Spread the mixture on the baking sheet as close to a single layer as possible. • Bake for 5-10 minutes, but also keep an eye on the mixture, as it can burn easily. Once baked to your desired crispness, remove from the oven and let the pan cool.

familySPECTRUM

Recipe provided by Katie Anderson

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Submitted by: Danielle Knudson, Safe Communities Director, National Safety Council, Nebraska

“Building strong foundations for a lifetime of learning” • Caring, friendly environment • Half-day educational programs for 3-5 year-olds • Curriculum linked to local school districts, fostering the growth of the whole child • Differentiated instruction

Air Travel with Children: What is the Law and What is “Best” Practice?

W

e prepare for weeks when we get ready to fly with our kids. Making a safe holiday

travel plan should be a part of those preparations. When we talk about kids and travel, our state and federal laws follow the minimum standard or requirement. The best practice recommendation often exceeds the law and is the safer alternative for child passenger safety based on age, height, weight, and body development. In August 2005, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced that it would not require the use of child restraints on airplanes. The decision was based on current NHTSA studies showing that such a requirement could result in another 13 to 42 added family member deaths in highway crashes over 10 years. Airlines allow children 2 and under to fly free if riding on an adult lap. If parents cannot afford the extra tickets they would have to purchase for those age two and under, they might instead drive to their destination. More vehicles on the road would lead to more crashes and, therefore, more deaths. Even though the law allows lap riding, the best practice is to have all children under 40 pounds travel in an aircraft-approved child restraint. Look for a label or sticker on your child restraint that states, “This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.” Install the approved seat as you do in a vehicle using the lap belt of the aircraft. Boosters are NEVER to be installed with a lap-only belt, so they are not an approved type of child restraint for air travel. When making your travel arrangements, be sure to indicate that you will be traveling with a small child; airline carriers do not allow a child restraint or “lap sit” child in an exit row. Measure the restraint at home; if the width is 16” or less, it should fit on an airplane seat. According to the FAA: “If an approved child restraint, for which a ticket has been purchased, does not fit in a particular seat on the aircraft, the airline is responsible for accommodating the child restraint in another seat in the same class of service.” If you are having difficulties getting your child restraint to fit, a flight attendant should be able to assist. If you do decide to let your little one travel on your lap, remember to properly check her child restraint as baggage, so that you will have a reliable seat when you arrive. Realizing upon arrival that the seat you’ve borrowed to transport your child in is outdated or in disrepair might be a deadly mistake. Trying to install an unfamiliar restraint in an unfamiliar car can be stressful, and you may SPECTRUM be unable to install it correctly. Take the time to do it right every trip, every time.

family

Plan ahead to make the right decisions for your family this holiday season—safe travel is no accident. Contact us at www.safenebraska.org or 402-898-7351 with Child Passenger Safety questions or to make a car seat inspection appointment. • readonlinenow.com  December 2012   • • • •

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live•love•grow

•  ­11


Submitted by: Children’s Hospital & Medical Center

The Right Foods Iron-fortified formulas and infant foods have made a difference. Yet iron deficiency remains a significant health concern for 4 percent of 6-month-old babies and 7 to 15 percent of toddlers 1 to 3 years of age.

Pump Iron into Your Child’s Diet

Y

ou might think of “iron-poor blood” as an old-age problem; however, the nation’s pe-

diatricians beg to differ.

Lack of iron is quite common in babies and young children, says the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Even more alarming, the problem often goes unnoticed. The AAP offers guidelines to prevent iron deficiency and improve screening in children up to age 3. Too little iron is also a problem for older kids and teens that are growing rapidly and have poor eating habits.

A Vital Nutrient The body needs iron to make hemoglobin (which helps red blood cells transport oxygen) and other key proteins. Low iron levels often occur when people don’t eat enough foods that contain this key mineral. Over time, low iron levels can lead to iron deficiency anemia. Common symptoms include pale skin, lack of appetite, weakness, fatigue, dizziness, irritability, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, headaches, bloody stools, and unusual food cravings. Iron deficiency anemia can affect kids’ mental abilities, behavior, motor skills, and school performance. Some complications may remain even after iron levels get back to normal.

12­  •

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You can help protect your child by making some of these iron-rich foods part of his or her daily diet: • Lean red meat (especially beef) • Poultry (dark meat) • Eggs • Beans • Iron-fortified whole grains • Iron-fortified cereals It’s also important to include foods that contain vitamin C, which helps the body absorb iron.

Finding an Iron Deficiency The AAP says no single test is sure to pinpoint kids’ iron status. It recommends that doctors use a combination of tests to spot this major health concern. Some kids may need iron supplements. The amount varies by age and risk. The good news is with treatment, most kids’ iron levels are back in the normal range in a few months.

familySPECTRUM

• • • •  December 2012

familyspectrum •


inspire

Omaha Conservatory of Music’s mission is to build an Inspired Arts Community through education and performance.

Planning Your 12 Days of Fitness

T

he holiday season is upon us. Children are working on their

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New Semester Starting Sign up Today! 3504 S. 108 St., Omaha • NE 68144 • 402.932.4978 www.omahacm.org | www.accelerandocoffeehouse.com The Annette and Paul Smith Performing Arts Center at the Omaha Conservatory of Music

Christmas list for Santa. Parents are busy shuttling from Christmas plays, getting the tree up, and making sure Santa has the right cookies and milk for the big day. But the holiday season also brings on holiday parties, pastries, cookies, candies, and everything that can make it a challenge to keep the waistline from increasing during the holiday season. I have outlined some safe and effective tips to get you through the holiday season and keep that waistline in check, so you are just enjoying a fitness routine at the turn of the New Year. • Move daily. Find an activity that you enjoy and will keep you moving for 30 minutes. • Strength train. This is essential and vital to any goal. The more lean muscle, the more calories are burned. • Limit adult beverage intake. This will cause a spike in hormones and can lead to eating things you normally wouldn’t. • Limit sugar intake. If you know you are going to have sweets, make sure you lift heavy during your workout the day of that Christmas party. • Eat vegetables every day. The greener, the better. • Drink at minimum of 64oz of water each day. If you are struggling to make it through that Christmas party, try drinking water before you go ahead with the nut cluster bar. It may stop the craving. These are just a few things that can help you make it through the holiday season with fitness dancing in your head. I also challenge everyone who is reading this to start moving or executing a fitness plan before or during the holiday season instead of in January as a resolution. If you begin in December, it is because you have chosen to do so. This will make it more likely to become a permanent change, instead of a resolution that does SPECTRUM not make it past the first week of February.

family

Submitted by: Jason Nold Adult Fitness Manager at Nebraska Elite Sports & Fitness Complex B.S., M.S., CSCS, RKC, FMS, CPT, PES

• readonlinenow.com  December 2012   • • • •

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•  ­13


Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Providing Great Care for Kids

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• • • •  December 2012

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Written by: Bailey Hemphill • Photos by: Bill Sitzmann

S

ince 1948, Children’s Hospital & Medical Center

has been the only full-service pediatric specialty health care center in Omaha; and as the only one of its kind, the hospital has already laid claim to being the best at what it does—caring for children. Children’s Memorial Hospital opened its doors on 42nd and Dewey streets in 1948 with a vision that no child in need of medical care would be turned away due to an inability to pay. After seeing major growth, the hospital moved to the corner of 83rd and Dodge in 1981. Today, the state-of-the-art hospital is actually one block north of that location and sees families from across a five-state region, who seek the experience and expertise at Children’s. In 2011 alone, Children’s had more than 350,000 patient visits with 7,600 inpatient admissions and 6,100 outpatient surgery visits. It has also been ranked No. 44 in Cardiology & Heart Surgery and No. 47 in Cancer in U.S. News & World Report’s 2012-13 Best Children’s Hospitals rankings. “Children’s deserves high praise for its accomplishments,” says Health Rankings Editor Avery Comarow. “It has a reservoir of dedication and expertise that helps the sickest kids.”

Natalie Thomas, RN, takes patient Titus DeKoster on a wagon adventure through Children’s Hospital. • readonlinenow.com  December 2012   • • • •

“We’re honored to be ranked among the best children’s hospitals in the country,” says Gary A. Perkins, FACHE, president and CEO of Children’s. “The patients and families we serve provide a constant stream of inspiration as we challenge ourselves and our organization to always provide the highest level of care.”

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Some of the unique features of Children’s Hospital & Medical Center include: • Seven surgical suites and four procedure rooms, as well as a hybrid heart catheterization lab (one of the most technologically advanced in the nation). • A nine-bed inpatient unit dedicated to the care of infants, which provides parent sleep beds, as well as age-appropriate books and developmental toys suited to babies from newborn to 6 months. • More than 30 outpatient clinics: asthma/ allergy, aerodigestive, audiology, behavioral health, cardiology, cardiothoracic, children’s developmental clinic, craniofacial, diabetes, endocrinology, developmental pediatrics, eating disorders, ENT, gastroenterology, helmet lab, hematology/oncology, immunology, infectious disease, metabolic management, nephrology, neurodiagnostics, neurology, NICU followup, pathology, pediatric dental clinic, plastic/ reconstructive surgery, pulmonology, rehab services (OT/PT), respiratory services, rhematology, spasticity management, speech therapy, and urology/urodynamics. • Children’s Home Healthcare, which provides pediatric equipment and medical supplies, home health nursing, pharmaceutical services, respiratory therapy, private-duty services, custom rehabilitation, nutrition therapy, and other patient services. • The Carolyn Scott Rainbow House, which is a home-away-from-home for families with children requiring hospitalization, allowing families to stay together in a loving and caring atmosphere with no required fee (though a $10 per night donation is graciously accepted). • A 33-bed “day hospital,” called the Children’s Ambulatory Recovery and Express Services (CARES) unit, provides outpatients and their families with individual rooms throughout the surgical or outpatient procedure. Children’s Hospital & Medical Center is a familiar sight for many parents in the Omaha area. As one of the largest hospitals for children in the Midwest, there are many outof-town visitors that come to see the skilled specialists.

Photo by Scott Dobry

Pediatric Hospitalist Sheilah Snyder, M.D., has been with Children’s Hospital & Medical Center for five years. For Snyder, a regular day of work at the hospital means about 10-12 hours worth of reviewing labs and radiology tests, examining patients, establishing patient plans, and teaching medical students and residents. Many of the patients Snyder sees have many medical problems that require them to stay for long periods of time. “We try to make birthdays and holidays special for these kids, as the hospital becomes their home, school, and community,” she says. Working with these children is rewarding for her, as she gets to see how resilient they are. But it’s not just the children who make her job feel worthwhile—it’s

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• • • •  December 2012

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Titus smiles at his Lightning McQueen balloon as he’s wheeled back to his room.

the parents as well. “Parents really enjoy Family Centered Rounds, where we have a multidisciplinary team meet and round on each patient at the bedside daily. They compare us to House (TV series) and usually learn as much as the med students do!” Snyder loves seeing the patients she helps finally be able to return home. “It is quite complex to coordinate all of the appointments, therapy, and equipment that they will need for home, but it’s so satisfying to see them walk out that door with a smile on their face after staying with us.” Even though she enjoys seeing her patients leave the hospital, Snyder also takes comfort in their visits. “For me personally, I love to see former patients, who are doing well, come back to visit…Some of these children had been very sick as infants and faced life-threatening situations. It’s very satisfying to think I made a difference in the life of a child,” she says. Snyder appreciates being a part of the Children’s team, especially because she knows that Children’s is truly focused on children. “Children’s is the best hospital for children because every person who works here is trained to work with children—from phlebotomy (blood draws) to radiology, the medical staff is all trained in pediatrics…The hospital has Child Life specialists to talk to patients about medical procedures and diagnoses in ‘kid terms,’ and pediatric nurses to place IVs and care for children that are not just small adults.”

• readonlinenow.com  December 2012   • • • •

LOCATIONS 14460 West Maple Rd.

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•  ­17

9/14/12 11:55 AM


Family Time

Beyond Great Haircuts An experience as great as the styles

It makes us feel good to know that the people who care for him medically also care about him. ” -Erin Nahorny

Surroundings that put everyone at ease A time to regroup and reconnect Open daily in One Pacific Place! Book an appointment on-line at pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/omaha, call us at 402-933-3700 or just walk-in! One Pacific • 10351 Pacific Street Omaha, NE 68114 ©2012 Pigtails & Crewcuts

Four-year-old Sammy Nahorny is treated at Children’s for his neuroblastoma.

Photo by Erin Nahorny

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18­  •

Erin Nahorny of Columbus, Neb., would have to agree. Her son, Sammy, 4, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma—a cancer that develops in nerve tissue—in July of this year. After the diagnosis, Sammy was immediately sent to Children’s and scheduled for surgery to remove a malignant tumor. “Right away, we were scrambling to learn about neuroblastoma,” she says. “We discovered that Children’s is involved in research surrounding neuroblastoma, and it is also a member of the Children’s Oncology Group, which is at the forefront of pediatric cancer treatment.” Nahorny says that being in a hospital with your child is never where a parent wants to be, but she’s very comfortable at Children’s. “Everyone has been so good to us…In addition to helping Sammy, one Child Life specialist has also helped his older sister to better understand what’s going on. She’s planned fun activities for her when she visits, and she’s made this less frightening.” Besides the involvement with her family, Nahorny says she likes how the staff works with her son. “When they take blood pressure, the nurse says it’s time for an arm hug. Sammy doesn’t like to take medicine, and his nurse understood that, [so] she mixed it in a spoonful of pudding for him; and when it was time to take it, she had a spoon of pudding for each of us. She told Sammy we had to eat it right away for a special ninja power boost. It was great!” Since his surgery, Sammy frequently stays at the hospital for chemotherapy and fevers related to treatment, but Nahorny doesn’t feel like it’s a burden. “We’ve never felt like people didn’t have time for us…One of Sammy’s doctors had a fake sword fight with him when he stopped by the room… It makes us feel good to know that the people who care for him medically also care about him.”

familySPECTRUM

For more information about Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, visit www.childrensomaha.org or call 402-955-5400.

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• • • •  December 2012

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What’s on Your Mind? Procrastination

I

have a confession: My submission for December’ s Family Spectrum is due tomorrow, it’s 9:07 pm, and I’m still writing. Despite regular reminders and my knowledge that the magazine is published monthly, I sit staring at my computer screen the night before every due date. You’d never know I actually like writing. As 2012 wraps up, it’s about time I answer my own question: How can I stop procrastinating? Procrastination is a (bad) habit, which means it’s learned. It also means it can be taught, especially by example. Ever notice your kids using your best “put things off” techniques? Almost everyone procrastinates. Try out the following solutions, and maybe we can all learn how to be a little more efficient!

Pick up a free copy at more than 150 locations throughout the Omaha area or subscribe and have them delivered to your door for a nominal $5.95 per year for 6 issues.

• Write down and prioritize tasks. • Break a big job into smaller ones, and do ones you don’t like first. The longer you put them off the worse they seem. (It only takes a couple minutes to make a phone call. Do it first, or you’ll never get it off your list.) • For some tasks, doing a little each day is helpful. Set a timer for 10 minutes and get started. (Anyone can do 10 minutes, right?) When it beeps, see if you can do 10 more minutes. (This is not the time to start looking for a timer and then decide to clean out the drawer it’s supposed to be in. Use the microwave timer). • Mindset is powerful. Focus on the end result and how good it will feel to be done. • Remove distractions. For example, turn your phone and e-mail alerts off. • It’s tempting to leave a task when you think of other (better) ones. Instead, write them down quickly, no bubble letters or pretty designs, and complete what you’ve started. • Breaks can be good, but if you start talking to someone, checking e-mail, or looking at a magazine, chances are you won’t want to start working again. Use the timer to limit break times. • Reward yourself to stay motivated. • And in the words of an amazingly efficient and organized friend, “You just have to do it.” (She’s SPECTRUM my hero.)

family

Submitted by: Deb Fuller Mental Health Therapist, Real Life Counseling Something on your mind? Send in your questions to Deb, and she might answer them in this column. Submit them to reallifecounseling@cox.net with ‘Family Spectrum’ in the subject line.

• readonlinenow.com  December 2012   • • • •

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Written by: Bailey Hemphill

Family Success Story The Monaghans

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eet the Monaghans—Brian and Jaci, and their children Shea, Colin, Breanna, Keenan, and Aidan of Millard! The kids attend school in the Millard Public Schools district, and the family has two dogs: Finn, a Cavachon, and Tighe, a Lhasalier. Brian and Jaci have been married for 16 years. “For us, marriage is a loving partnership, which involves friendship, support, teamwork, open communication, compromise, and hard work,” explains Jaci. “It’s helped us to realize that our family is what’s important. By focusing on the relationship in our marriage above other things, our family unit is stronger.” The Monaghans family unit—while strong—is also unique. After they struggled with fertility issues while having their biological children, Colin and Breanna, Brian and Jaci decided to adopt more children. Their oldest daughter, Shea, was adopted from South Korea when she was 7½; son Keenan was adopted from South Korea when he was 5½; and son Aidan was adopted from South Korea when he was 8 months. “I feel really fortunate to have the family that we do,” says Brian.“Each adoption has changed our family dynamic.” Although the adoptions are part of what makes the Monaghans an interesting family, their most recent inspiring story is of Brian’s kidney donation. In August, Brian donated a kidney to Mallory Bultsma (who is featured as our Young Hero). The Monaghans had a mutual friend with the Bultsmas, and that friend had posted on Facebook that they knew a little girl who needed a kidney transplant for O positive blood, along with information about how to contact the family. “[Jaci] had seen that post, so she sent me the message because I have O positive blood,” Brian says. After sending in his sample and going through the match process, Brian started to correspond with Mallory’s mom, Kim, through e-mail. It wasn’t until Brian had gone through the donation surgery in the hospital that he finally got to meet Mallory and her family.

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Breanna, 9, Shea, 12, Aidan, 7, Brian, Jaci, Colin, 12, and Keenan, 8

Even though he still isn’t fully recovered, Brian hasn’t had any major issues after donating his kidney to Mallory. “I was out of work for a total of three weeks from the time the surgery happened until I got back to the office. I’m still a little sore and tired, but otherwise everything went well,” he says. During his three weeks out of work, Jaci had to step up and take care of everything. “Jaci was a huge support. I wasn’t supposed to lift more than 10 pounds or do any repetitive motions,” Brian adds. Jaci took care of both Brian and the kids while he rested, helping with homework and running the kids around town to school and their extracurricular activities. “She had to take on a heavy load,” he says. “When I was in the hospital, it was hard on her because she felt the need to be with me constantly, but she also knew the kids needed her.” But it wasn’t just Jaci who helped Brian out. The kids were also trying to wait on him hand-and-foot. “The kids tried to constantly carry things for me and help me out. [Shea] grew up in South Korea taking care of younger kids, so she had a nurse-like attitude when it came to helping…and [Aidan] kept asking me about my kidney. He kept saying, ‘Is it gone?’ and he wanted to see my scars, asking how my kidney could fit into a little girl,” he adds with a laugh. The kids’ schools were also really supportive. “One of my daughter’s whole class wrote ‘Get Well Soon’ cards for me…I hung them all up in the hospital.” In October, the Monaghans started to return to some normalcy, as Brian went back to work and was able to help out with the kids again. The Monaghans feel their family got through this little rough patch because they’re such a tight-knit group. “We talk about everything at dinner every night—the good and the bad parts of our day,” says Brian. Jaci agrees that her family has done a great job of spending time together, valuing each other over material things, listening to each other, openly communicating, and having a positive outlook on life. “We all just rely on each other. It’s a group effort,” says Brian. “We’re all in this SPECTRUM together, and we’re all part of the family.”

family

• • • •  December 2012

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Written by: Bailey Hemphill

Young Hero: Mallory Bultsma

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allory Bultsma, 6, is a 1st grader at Pine Creek Elementary in Bennington. Although Mallory is an only child, her mom, Kim, says the family’s two cocker spaniels, Ike and Daisy, are practically her siblings. “They are our other children. Mallory loves her puppies—her ‘boy dog’ and her ‘Daisy dog.’” Above all of the wonderful traits her daughter has, Kim believes Mallory is very brave. Mallory has had two kidney transplants in the last four years—her first at age 2 and her second in August of this year. “She doesn’t remember anything about her first transplant, but she does remember this transplant and the dialysis she had over the summer,” says Kim. “[She] goes in for lab draws twice a week, takes many pills, and has to drink 50-60 ounces of fluid every day.” Kim believes that what makes her daughter a hero is that she does this all while trying to be a normal kid. “Some adults have a hard time keeping up with all of their pills, meds, and life…but Mallory does it with minimal complaint. She participates in activities at school, is in her fourth year of dance, and is taking piano lessons. She doesn’t let what she can’t do get in the way of all the things she can do!” While Mallory can’t play full-contact sports, swim in lakes or rivers, or play normally with other kids, she doesn’t let that get her down. She likes to focus on the things she can do, like dance and run. “We help her live as normally as possible, and I think that her attitude toward life is great, all things considered,” adds Kim.

Kim thinks that her daughter is a good role model for other kids because she is caring and friendly toward everyone she meets. “She understands that everyone is unique, but what makes people unique isn’t a reason to not treat them all with equal courtesy and respect.” Because Mallory has such a happy disposition even though she’s been through so much over the last six years, she’s always on the go and doesn’t let anything stop her. In fact, that’s the exact reason why she inspires Kim. “Whenever I start to feel down, I remember that nothing I feel could ever compare to what she’s gone through in her first six years of life. She has so much to look forward to, and [she has] the potential for awesomeness.”

familySPECTRUM

Family Spectrum and Omaha Storm Chasers would like to honor your Young Hero. Send nominations to Bailey@OmahaPublications.com. • readonlinenow.com  December 2012   • • • •

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•  21


Hope is Not a Privilege

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he two boys were getting into trouble.

It was understandable. After all, their mom was a teenage bride and their father had deserted them right after the boys were born. Their young mother was doing the best she could. In fact, she had remarried to a nice, dependable man with whom she had four more children. But now, the marriage was going south, and the father had little affection for his two stepsons, who were now 9- and 15-years-old. It was when the youngest took his frustration and anger out on other kids at school that the mother felt she had to make a decision—a really hard decision. Now, the courts were involved. The family was having financial trouble. The mother felt her only choice was to put her oldest sons up for adoption. Put them up for adoption? In the 1950s, there were far fewer social programs and support programs available to families in crisis. These two boys became residents of the Lutheran Children’s Home in Fremont, where for the first time in their young lives, they had their own beds. They had a closet for their clothing, and they found out they would be able to go swimming and fishing once in a while. The youngest was surprised to find out he wouldn’t be locked in his room. It took a while for both of them to get used to the idea of going to school regularly. They both wet the bed (Yes, even the 15-year-old), and their stepfather had refused to allow them to participate in any groups or activities. It was a challenging adjustment for them.

After time and therapy, the boys moved into a foster home. And the happy news is that their mother and stepfather also sought counseling and support that eventually allowed the reunification of the entire family. This true story is 60 years old, but it could have been written yesterday. A young mother with a baby and a toddler struggles to care for them alone. Remarriage that doesn’t work well, and small children caught in the middle of their parents’ discord. Children with behavioral health issues that cause problems in school and with learning. Children who are neglected and abused by over-stressed parents… Over the past year, Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska (LFS) has been celebrating 120 years of service. I found this story as I was looking through old LFS archives, and I was surprised at just how relevant it still is. Families still have serious problems. Children still get into trouble. They all can still find hope. In 2012, we at LFS aren’t celebrating that people have needed our services for 120 years, but rather—because of incredible and generous communities, donors, and supporters—we have been able to help families in crisis like this one. Service is not an accident, and hope is not a privilege. We believe that. And we plan to be here. Just in case you or someone you love SPECTRUM needs us someday.

family

Written by: Bev Carlson, APR Director of Public Relations, Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska You can contact Bev with comments or story ideas at bcarlson@lfsneb.org or (402) 978-5646.

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Submitted by: Boys Town Clinical Services

As your children grow older, you can provide more details about how your family traditions got started and why they’re important. These details will help your children understand the traditions, so they can carry them on when they are adults or adapt them to their own lives as they get older.

Create Family Traditions at Boys Town This Holiday Season

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ne of the most important things you can do to maintain a healthy family life is to have family traditions. If you don’t have traditions already, this holiday season is the perfect time to start a ritual, celebration, or habit of your own.

Your family can celebrate the holidays in many ways. Here are a few examples of traditions that may work for you: • Prepare special foods that honor your family’s ethnic, religious, or cultural heritage. • Create at-home activities that everyone gets involved in: decorating the house, making dinner, eating together, watching a favorite video, playing games or cards, singing carols. • Take a family outing, like a trip to Boys Town. • Volunteer some time for a charitable cause. • Attend worship services as a family. As your family marks holidays or special events, be sure to talk to your children about the specifics of your family celebration. Make sure your children help plan the celebration and assist with preparations, such as helping set the table or greeting guests.

Traditions create fond childhood memories and bring everyone in the family closer together. We invite you to begin your own Christmas tradition and join us at Boys Town for a holiday experience your children will remember. We offer free admission every day. This holiday season, you can enjoy many family activities at Boys Town, including: • Christmas Stamps Display at the Leon Myers Stamp Center: November 1 – December 31 • Historic Crèche Displays at Boys Town: December 1 – January 11 • Irish Christmas at Father Flanagan’s Historic Home: December 8 – 16. The Father Flanagan House will be dressed in its best Irish Christmas finery, with special displays and decorations throughout the museum. Explore and view displays of Christmas quilts, antique ornaments from the 1920s to the 1940s, and antique toys SPECTRUM from the 1920s.

family

For more information, www.boystown.org/discover or 402-498-1140.

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Rediscover Boys Town Omaha’s Best Kept secret

Scan to download a coupon for a free gift from our Gift Shop on your next visit to Boys Town! Don’t have a Smartphone? No problem! Just bring in this ad in to claim your free gift!

boystown.org/discover 402-498-1140 | 137th and West Dodge Rd

1204-132-04

• readonlinenow.com  December 2012   • • • •

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•  23


Calming an Angry Child: Some Basic Dos and Don’ts

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hildren, like adults, will have some moments in their lives when their tempers will get the better of them. However, unlike adults, young people have a difficult time noticing when their anger is beginning to take over their thinking and their actions in a negative way. This is when many children exhibit troublesome behaviors that can be disruptive to both their home and school environments—and land them in some hot water with parents and teachers! Below is a series of helpful steps adults can take with children when they are having difficulty controlling their bad feelings. 1. Have them talk openly about their anger. Ask them what has made them angry and, if appropriate, agree with them about how they are feeling. For example, if they have been called a bad name, agree that being called a bad name is a good reason to feel angry and that would make you angry, too. 2. Help them calm down by taking deep breaths, counting backwards from 10 to one, or squeezing a ball. Perhaps even redirecting their anger into doing a puzzle, building with blocks, or playing with modeling clay, as those activities can have a very calming effect on a young child.

Go All In with year-round swim lessons! Warm water, warmer air temperature Small class sizes (max of four students) Convenient class times

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402.933.6251

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Remember that children learn best when they feel safe and cared about, so be sure to approach an angry child with a positive attitude and a caring disposition. When a child feels like you understand and are on their side, they are much more likely to listen to your advice and take it to heart. Never treat an angry child with more anger, as this can result in the child either becoming even more heated or shutting down completely. Remember that you are the adult, and it is up to you to set a positive SPECTRUM example for the children around you each day.

family

Written by: Deborah Gleich-Bope, M.S. Ed, Graduate Assistant, UNO Educational Administration and Supervision Department.

Caring, certified swim teachers

4303 S. 121st

3. Once they are calm, talk to them about good choices to make when they become angry again. Also, congratulate them on any bad choices they could have made but did not. For instance, if they did not hit the person who made them upset, tell them how proud you are of them for keeping their hands to themselves even though they were angry.

diventures.net

Deb is currently working toward her doctorate degree after 15 years as a teacher and school counselor.

• • • •  December 2012

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Craft and photo by: Katie Anderson

Creative Corner

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f you’re looking for a great way to get your kids involved in decorating the house for the winter holidays, here’s a fun, kidfriendly (and recyclable) craft!

Materials • empty toilet paper rolls • scissors • glue stick or stapler • decorative paper Instructions • Cut decorative paper in half. • Fold each half of paper into the shape of a cone. • Glue or staple the edges of the paper together, so that it stays in the cone shape (If you used glue, let the glue dry before the next step). • Place the paper cones over the empty toilet paper rolls. • Arrange in groups of three or more for a fun diplay.

Tree Cones

Tips Get creative with the tree by adding embellishments, like ribbons, SPECTRUM lace, or stickers!

family

Source: kindovermatter.com

• readonlinenow.com  December 2012   • • • •

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•  25


Family Spectrum’s Writer’s Corner

Proudly Presented by:

Audrey

Audrey is a 1st grader at Pine Creek Elementary. She has an older sister, Ava, and a dog named Ruby. She loves dancing and spending time with her family.

Dear Santa by Audrey

A u dre y

8702 Pacific St., Countryside Village (402) 392–2877 www.bookwormomaha.com

ATTENTION YOUNG WRITERS!

Dear Santa, Can I have for Christmas the stable and supplies, a mommy horse, and the fancy riding outfit? Thank you, Santa!

Submit your original short stories and/or poems to Bailey@OmahaPublications.com, and we may choose YOURS to feature in our next issue! Submission of a story or poem automatically gives Family Spectrum publishing rights to publish in whole or in part. Family Spectrum will notify writers of intent of use prior to publishing.

UNION PACIFIC RAILROAD MUSEUM Visit the Union Pacific Railroad Museum to experience “Building America,” an immersive exhibit featuring video-game technology; relive the height of passenger rail travel; and learn how Union Pacific and America’s progress have been inextricably linked for 150 years.

200 Pearl Street • Council Bluffs, IA 51503 Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Free Admission (712) 329-8307 • www.uprrmuseum.org

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Nominated by colleague Melissa Yost

Bring this coupon to Premier and receive

1 FREE Membership Expires 12-22-12

ittybitty ittty

Teacher of the Month

Melanie Kennedy Ralston Public SchoolsMockingbird Elementary School

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elanie Kennedy received her bachelor’s degree from Northwest Missouri State University with a double major in early childhood and elementary education. She continued her education through the University of Nebraska-Omaha’s CADRE (Career Advancement and Development for Recruits and Experienced Teachers) program during her first year of teaching. She is currently completing her ninth year teaching with Ralston Public Schools. She taught one year of 5th grade at Mockingbird Elementary School and then moved to 3rd grade, where she has been ever since. She also co-sponsored Student Council and coached cheerleading at Ralston High School for four years. Melanie and her husband, Dan, have two little boys: Urban, 3, and Pryor, 1. Her hobbies include sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, Pinterest, and running. Recently, she completed two half marathons in Lincoln and Omaha. “Melanie Kennedy is the most motivated and energetic teacher I know. She has a passion for teaching and instills a passion for learning in her students. Her classroom adores her and spends most of the day laughing and having fun...I think most of our teachers are inspired by Melanie Kennedy’s work ethic, commitment to her students, and passion for the education profession!” says colleague and 2nd grade SPECTRUM teacher Melissa Yost.

family

• readonlinenow.com  December 2012   • • • •

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•  27


Teen Voices: He Said/She Said The Importance of Family

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amily is precious and should not be taken for granted. It’s an indescribable feeling to be unconditionally loved and supported. Sometimes we don’t realize how lucky we are, thinking that having a good family is automatically a given when in reality, to have people love you unconditionally—no matter what—is something powerful and rare. One should always cherish it. My family is very close. Our humor is uplifting and can brighten anyone’s day. With our sarcastic remarks, we end up laughing with tears streaming down our faces. We recently bought a new dog, a German Shepherd. Eddie is a gigantic handful, but he is also loved much like a family member and provides a few fits of giggles here and there. Even in the dark times, my family remains strong. We try to pick others up when they’re down and make sacrifices to help out. We care for each other, especially if someone is upset or sick. I’m fortunate my family is close, and I try my very best not to take it for granted. Family is important, and it plays a definite role in my life. Without my family’s constant support, I wouldn’t be anywhere. It’s a tremendous feeling to have family involved in my activities. It pushes me to try my best and succeed because I don’t want their support to go to waste. It’s a gift given to us, and we should be grateful. Life is too short for things to go unappreciated. Family will forever remain in our hearts as their unconditional love lights up our souls. I will always cherish my family.

familySPECTRUM

Submitted by: Halston Class of 2015

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S

pending time with your family is very important for many different reasons. A family provides many important aspects to life that teenagers may not even realize. Your family provides moral support and also a strong backing during this crucial stage of life. Teenagers are making a lot of choices with friends—put in various situations along the way—and a teen must be close to their parents to be able to communicate and make good decisions. Our favorite activity as a family that involves us spending time together is going on vacation. Vacation is the perfect way to spend uninterrupted time with family. It doesn’t involve as many distractions that your daily life does. just getting away together is the most important part. One of the things my family enjoys is watching TV at night. With homework and sports activities going on after school and during early evening, this is some of the only time as a family we get to spend together on weekdays. It is usually a 45-minute window of time. It’s a great way to relax and also to become closer as a family. The only rule with watching TV as a family is that everyone has to agree on a show. We are usually all too tired to do anything more interactive. Another thing we do to spend time as a family is to eat dinner together every night. This is a very easy thing to do daily, and everyone shares stories about their days. With a busy schedule, it’s not hard to sit down as a family for 20 minutes and share a nice meal. Spending time with family is the building block that all teens should make a priority. The relationships amongst family members lasts a lifeSPECTRUM time.

family

Submitted by: Connor Class of 2015

• • • •  December 2012

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December 2012 Event Calendar sunday Don’t miss the fun! Clip and put on your fridge.

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The Best Christmas Pageant Ever! Dec. 6–9 • Yorkshire Playhouse 513 N. Lincoln Ave., York, Neb. (402) 362-4575 • www.yorkshireplayhouse.com

Holiday Happenings Dec. 1, 8 & 15 • Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium 3701 S. 10th St. (402) 738-2038 • www.omahazoo.com

In this magical story about the true meaning of Christmas, the “worst kids in the history of the world” threaten to turn the Nativity story into the worst Christmas pageant ever.

Santa’s coming to town and making a special stop at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. See Santa swimming among his sea friends and watch zoo residents enjoy special holiday treats to commemorate the season.

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Christmas on the Farm Dec. 8-23 • Wessel’s Living History Farm 1 mi. S. of I-80 Exit 353, York, Neb. (402) 710-0682 • www.livinghistoryfarm.org See what life on the farm was like during the holidays in the 1920s. See favorite toys of the era, stroll through decorated and illuminated buildings, and enjoy favorite holiday refreshments. 9

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Bill of Rights Day

Christmas at the Cody’s Dec. 15-18 • Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park 2921 Scouts Rest Ranch Rd., North Platte, Neb. (308) 535-8035 • www.outdoornebraska.org Kick up your heels with Santa and Buffalo Bill Cody. In the spirit of Buffalo Bill’s warm Western hospitality, nightly events include horse-drawn hayrack rides, roasted chestnuts, hot apple cider, and visits with Santa. 16

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20 Oatmeal Muffin Day

21 Ticket to Toyland Dec. 26-30 • The Rose Theater 2001 Farnam St. (402) 345-4849 • www.rosetheater.org

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On a cold winter’s night, a magical elf appears with a dire message—Santa’s in trouble! Little ones will love this tale of a girl and her little brother helping save Toyland and Christmas. 23

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Robots: The Interactive Exhibit Through Jan. 6 • Strategic Air & Space Museum 28210 West Park Hwy, Ashland, Neb. (402) 944-3100 • www.sasmuseum.com Characters from the hit animated film Robots teach guests about the amazing past and future of robotics. Kids of all ages are invited to journey into this magical, mechanical world.

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4 5 A Christmas Carol Dec. 1-23, recurring Th-Sun • Omaha Community Playhouse 6915 Cass St. (402) 553-0800 • www.omahaplayhouse.com It’s not the holiday season without A Christmas Carol. Exquisite costumes and exciting special effects bring Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformational journey to life in this family favorite.

To learn more about events from around the state, go to www.VisitNebraska.gov. Click on “Things to Do.”

• readonlinenow.com  December 2012   • • • •

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ind

Submitted by: Nebraska Travel and Tourism • Photo provided by: Joan Marcus

Family Spectrum and be sure to

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Purchase a $50 gift certificate and receive a $25 FREE gift certificate towards any service.

Spa Packages

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Spa Packages

Up-Do’s

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while you’re there

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast will be at the Orpheum Theater from December 14-16.

On The Go! Family-Friendly Events for a Merry Holiday Season

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ith the holidays in full swing, performing arts events and unique celebrations make the season even more magical. Enjoy these family-friendly, holiday-themed happenings and more in the metro!

The Aspen Santa Fe Ballet will bring Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic The Nutcracker to life once again at the Orpheum Theater, Dec. 9–11, with awe-inspiring special effects and dazzling costumes. The endearing story of a little girl, a handsome Nutcracker prince, and a terrible mouse king will feature more than 60 dancers, actors, and circus-style aerialists. Also featured at the Orpheum this season is Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Dec. 14–16. The award-winning Broadway smash will have your family dancing in their seats and singing along to memorable tunes such as “Be Our Guest.” Visit www.omahaperformingarts.org for more information. For a merry, multicultural holiday, look no further than Nollaig Shona Duit: Irish Christmas at Boys Town. From Dec. 8–16, the Father Flanagan House will be bedecked in the style of a traditional Irish Christmas. See historic Christmas ornaments, decorations, and toys along with a glimmering light display. Or why not hit the road for a quick family getaway? Book a night at a cozy B&B or hotel, grab a bite, and then see a show. Local child actors take It’s a Wonderful Life from the small screen to the stage of Lincoln’s Haymarket Theatre, Dec. 13–15. In this heartwarming tale, George Bailey’s life is forever changed when his guardian angel shows him a world where he’d never been born. Visit www.haymarkettheatre.org for more information. For a modern interpretation of Christmas classics, take in Mannheim Steamroller’s dazzling multimedia music show at Lincoln’s Lied Center for Performing Arts on Dec. 19, or catch them at the Orpheum Theater on Dec. 23. And don’t let the fun stop after the presents have been opened. Extend family time and make new memories with a visit to Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium for Penguins and Pancakes, Dec. 27-29. Though the penguins will be dressed in their finest, no formal wear is required for this event, which features pancakes from The Pancake Man, crafts, and animal visits from the African Penguins. Find more information at www.omahazoo.com. Find more statewide holiday events at VisitNebraska.com.

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Your Safety.

Our Priority.

Wishing You & Yours a Safe and Happy Holiday Season. Babysitting Classes

Prepare your pre-teen or teen to care for infants and young children!

Babysitting Class Schedule

All classes held on Saturday 8:00AM-4:00PM 2013 Dates: January 12, February 2, March 23, April 13, May 4, June 22, July 13, August 10, September 14, October 5, November 9, December 21 Tuition $65, Includes Lunch Class includes: • First Aid and CPR • What to do in case of an illness or injury • Evaluating emergency situations and calling 911 • Changing diapers • Feeding (bottle and spoon) and burping • Games and activities to keep youngsters happy

Students receive a Certificate of Completion good for two years! Call 402-898-7369 or visit www.SafeNebraska.org. to register!

Adult & Pediatric FA/CPR/AED Combined Class!

2013 Schedule

Certificate: First Aid 3 Years, CPR/AED 2 Years Saturday Daytime Classes Adult and Pediatric First Aid Only Adult and Pediatric CPR/AED Only Adult and Pediatric First Aid, CPR/AED

Time 8:00-12:00 1:00-5:00 8:00-5:00

Tuition $60 $65 $75

2013 Saturday Class Dates: January 19, February 9, March 16, April 20, May 11, June 8, July 20, August 24, September 21, October 19, November 16, December 7 All classes held at National Safety Council, Nebraska 11620 M Circle (120th & L) Call 402-896-0454 or visit www.SafeNebraska.org for more informaton or to register!


See a doctor 7 days a week BOYS TOWN

Pacific Pediatric Clinic 139th & Pacific

88th Street Pediatric Clinic 90th & Center

(402) 334-SICK (7425) 速

Same Day Pediatrics is not an urgent care clinic, but a real pediatric clinic with scheduled appointment times.

BOYS TOWN

Pediatrics

boystownpediatrics.org Watch health videos on our YouTube Channel

Appointments available every evening, weekend and holiday. youtube.com/boystownhospital


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