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contents
in every issue contributors .
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food for thought . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 event calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 shutterbug
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oh, by the way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
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contents
sections
body+being oh, the wonderful things your body can do: promoting healthy bodies for you and your family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
gettin' through it beam me up—what can lasers do for you? . . . 28
what's on your mind the long goodbye . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
just a thought building connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
ready, set, grow how to raise a foodie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
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36
contents
feature & profiles mod mom profile amber honl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
rad dad profile brady nash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
cover story cindy hutchins—what i know . . . . . . . . . . . 42
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contents
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OTMOM MISSION STATEMENT On The Minds Of Moms Magazine is dedicated to providing parents of all ages a bimonthly resource they can trust. A fresh approach to traditional parenting publications, we are modern and inspiring while offering a community of local support and real-life advice for today’s family. On The Minds Of Moms contains views from across the parenting spectrum. These views do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All activities listed in these pages are at your own risk and require appropriate supervision. OTMOM is a publication available at all Fargo-Moorhead Hornbacher's, Family Fare, and Grand Forks–East Grand Forks Hornbacher's and Hugo's grocery store locations. Distribution also includes all partnering advertisers. Copyright 2017 All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. On The Minds Of Moms is a trademark registered at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
contributors
my favorite teacher had to be… maegan jones fargo | nd body+being: page 18 My favorite k-12 teacher was my band director, David Enloe. He pushed me to try new things [I ended up playing 6+ instruments!], and taught me how to be a leader. Dr. Salafia has been my favorite teacher throughout my graduate career- she is unwaveringly kind and supportive.
kathleen wrigley bismarck | nd just a thought: page 32 My 5th grade teacher’s name was Mrs. S. She invited me to have lunch with her one day. She handed me a Kaiser roll with liverwurst and mustard and a chocolate milk. She asked me why I don’t raise my hand to answer questions. She told me she was sure I knew the right answers. I had a complicated home life, and liked to hide, to blend in. She saw me. She noticed. She heard me in the silence. She believed in me. She urged me out of my shell. It’s all her fault!
dr. beth blodgett salafia west fargo | nd body+being: page 18 My favorite teacher in school was Mrs. Rice, my AP English teacher. She inspired me to become a great writer and challenged me to read and analyze books I never thought I would. My favorite professor in college was Dr. Gondoli, my developmental psychology professor. She fostered my fascination in the way youth develop, became my mentor in graduate school, and helped me reach my career goal of becoming a college professor.
patricia carlson naples | fl ready, set, grow: page 50 My first college advisor, Jonathan Walsh, who teaches French Studies at Wheaton College in Massachusetts. He just really got me and I still have a note he wrote to my next advisor that reads, “She’s a good one.” Both professors are still at Wheaton.
dr. rachel ness fargo | nd gettin’ through it: page 28 My junior high math teacher Mr. Fitterer. He made math "cool" and made us want to excel in math whether you were a boy or girl.
deb uglem fargo | nd oh by the way: page 40 My 5th grade teacher Mrs. Flaten. She was fair and made everyone feel special. Sometimes during reading she would toss candy down the desk aisles. She was just plain fun!
kari klingsporn hitterdal fargo | nd food for thought: page 14 what’s on your mind: page 30 my 5th grade teacher, Ron Sprafka. His unmatched humor, compassion, creativity, and joie de vivre made school and learning a new experience for me: exciting! His classroom was the first place I ever felt challenged to think critically about myself and the world around me. I also learned from him that learning doesn't begin and end inside the classroom: I was amazed- and delighted- at the idea of being a lifelong learner with the whole world as my classroom. He set an example for his students that has always resonated with me: as a native of our small town, he had gone out and lived all over the world, yet he settled down right back in the community where he grew up. I think this encouraged students to explore the world beyond our small town, but also confirmed home isn't such a bad place to be either. So, thank you, Mr. Sprafka, for forming a strong wanderlust in me, allowing me to read ahead in books in class, and giving me a solid start on my bucket list that I am slowly ticking off- and adding to- as time goes by.
A
mber Honl grew up in Moorhead, MN, the sister of Erika and daughter of Danny and Sheila Bjerke. Currently a stay-at-home mom of four wonderful, energetic, fun, loving kids: Payton [10], Jaxon [5], Khloe [3.5], and Harper
[2], Amber is also a Beachbody Coach. She finds great satisfaction in helping others find their best way to live a healthy lifestyle and being an example of healthy living to her kids and husband, John.
photos: caitlin killoran photography  | caitlin killoran
amber honl
age 30, fargo.nd
the biggest fear i have…
do whatever she would like to do.
is the loss of one of my children.
the last time i laughed so hard i cried was when…
the kid snack i’m most likely to eat…
mod mom
my daughter cut her own hair because she wanted to look like her best friend.
fruit snacks.
my three favorite apps… My Challenge Tracker, Cartwheel, and BOD.
when i feel overwhelmed with life i… Workout.
one thing i vowed i would never do when i had kids that i find myself doing…
the tv show i hate to admit i watch… The Bachelorette.
my family gives me… love, happiness, and laughter.
saying “because I said so.”
as a family, we enjoy… swimming in our pool and having bonfires.
my friends would tell you i… am fun, easy going, and love to laugh and have a good time.
something every mom should have… is uninterrupted alone time. Even just 30 minutes to
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mod mom
the company most likely to hire me as product spokesperson… Maurice’s.
the best mom advice i have been given… cherish every moment with your kids; time goes by too fast.
i feel beautiful when…
i really hope my kids learn…
someone recognizes me for helping them reach their goals or for motivating them to begin taking the time to work on themselves.
to respect everyone, to be kind and nonjudgmental.
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on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
There’s No Need to Sweat Solo,
Build Your Social Core.
photo: thuen studios  | scott thuen
simple & savory quiche
food for thought
shared by | kari klingsporn hitterdal
T
his recipe is a true workhorse. It's perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between. It can be thrown together quickly with staple ingredients and served as an impressive yet homey, quick and satisfying meal. The filling can be mixed together a day ahead of time, refrigerated, and then added to the crust just before baking. Or the quiche can be baked, allowed to cool, refrigerated overnight, and reheated in the oven for serving. It can be served hot and fresh out of the oven or at room temperature. Cubing the cheese makes for super quick preparation and gives the quiche an unexpected consistency full of pockets of melty cheese. Or you can opt to shred the cheese for a more traditional presentation. you need: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1-10 ounce package spinach, cooked and drained well 1 cup sautéed mushrooms and onion, or any vegetable you prefer (optional) 4 eggs 1 cup milk 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper 1 cup cubed or shredded cheese (monterey jack is good, but you can use your favorite)
2 Tablespoons flour 8 pieces cooked and diced bacon or ½ cup chopped ham (optional) 1 frozen deep dish pie crust how to: Mix together eggs and milk in medium bowl. Add seasonings, spinach, meat, and other optional vegetables. Toss cheese with flour in separate bowl and add to egg mixture. Pour into pie crust. Bake at 350 for 45 minutes. Allow quiche to cool 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
feeding your family TIP: I frequently get comments from people that they can't believe I cook gourmet meals for my family every night. Um, no. Honestly, I don't know exactly what “gourmet” cooking is….so, I looked it up. Rest assured, according to the official dictionary definition, a gourmand I am not: I am not highly skilled nor do I use fancy ingredients or highly specialized cooking equipment. But, as a general life goal to expose myself and my children to different experiences as often as possible, our food has naturally become an extension of our family goals. Therefore, I do support and encourage trying new recipes and flavors as often as my patience and creativity allows. My column will always reflect that goal and encourage adventurous eating for parents and kids alike, and I am always open to ideas from you, too. But perhaps my biggest piece of advice is don't be intimidated about cooking and don't sweat it if you aren't coming up with something amazing and perfectly healthy every night. Trust me, there is a time and place for a very non-gourmet but oh-so-necessary frozen pizza!
resources
connect, find help, get answers, make a difference
Pregnancy, Parenting and Adoption Services [PPAS] The PPAS program provides decision-making counseling, parenting support, and adoption services to those facing unintended pregnancies. For expectant parents who choose to parent their child, PPAS provides resources to help them prepare for their new baby. For more information, call 701.235.4457, email info@catholiccharitiesnd.org, or visit www.catholiccharitiesnd.org.
for children ages 0-8. For more information, 701.526.1565, or www.rvcscc.org.
FM Busy Babies Connecting parents with information, insights, and activities. FMBB also hosts events with the goal of giving back to our community. For more information, visit www.fmbusybabies.com.
Parent Professional Learning Network The Parent Professional Learning Network is a Parent Navigator Team with Family Voices of North Dakota. It offers an opportunity for parents of children with special needs and the professionals who work with them to come together to learn and grow. For more information email parentproflearningnetwork@gmail.com.
Post-Adopt Support Group Any ND adoptive family or any ND family providing guardianships is invited to attend this group meeting. If you have questions, please email postadopt@ pathinc.org or call 701.551.6349. Visit our website [www. ndpostadopt.org] for meeting times across the state of North Dakota. Jeremiah Program Empowerment. Education. Success. It is what Jeremiah Program was built on, what participants strive for, and what the program helps participants achieve. At Jeremiah Program low-income single mothers make a commitment to completing a post-secondary education, launching a successful career, and creating stability and prosperity for their children—all while living in our affordable, safe, housing environment. For more information, call 701.361.3873, email fargomoorhead@jeremiahprogram.org or visit www.facebook.com/JeremiahProgramFargoMoorhead.
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Hands & Voices Hands & Voices A non-profit, parent-driven organization dedicated to supporting families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing without bias around communication modes or methodology. What Works for your Child is What Makes the Choice Right™ Contact us for more information at 701.484.1605, contact@ndhandsandvoices. org, or visit www.ndhandsandvoices.org. Red River Moms of Multiples Second Tuesday of each month. For more information visit www.rrvmothersofmultiples. weebly.com. Children's Consultation Network Provides access to early childhood mental-health screening, assessment, and consultation, develops and distributes children's mentalhealth resources, provides community education, seeks to diminish stigma, and facilitates collaborative efforts related to children's mental-health services, especially
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on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
Gigi’s Playhouse A Down-syndrome achievement center providing resources, specialized teaching, and support to individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the community. All programs are free. For more information call 701.551.7529 or visit www.gigisplayhouse.org/fargo.
The Compassionate Friends Second Thursday of each month, 7pm at Faith Lutheran Church [127 2nd Av E, West Fargo]. Offering grief support after the death of a child. For more information email chapterleader@tcffargomoorhead. org, call 701.491.0364 or visit www.tcffargomoorhead.org/. MOMS Club of Fargo/Moorhead IR, ND Provides monthly activities, playgroups, special projects, and support for local moms. This group is open to moms and their children in the F-M area. For more information contact momscluboffm@ gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/MomsClubFargo. Harlynn’s Heart Providing multiple services, resources, and comfort to parents, families, and friends who have or will experience perinatal loss. For more information, visit www. harlynnsheart.org or email info@harlynnsheart.org. Catholic Charities ND Counseling Professional and confidential counselors provide services to individuals, couples, and families dealing with relationship issues, stress or anger management, and a variety of other issues. We work with most insurances, EAP’s, and have a sliding-fee scale for those who don’t qualify for other resources. For more information call 701.235.4457, email info@catholiccharitiesnd.org, or visit www.catholiccharitiesnd.org. Red River Valley Asperger-Autism Network Child Caregiver Support Group Every Tuesday from 12pm-1pm at Olivet Lutheran Church [1303 S University Dr, Fargo]. For additional information visit www.rrvan.org. Pregnancy & Infant-Loss Support Group Hospice of the Red River Valley [www.hrrv.org], in partnership with Harlynn’s Heart [www.harlynnsheart.org], offers an ongoing pregnancy and infant-loss support group which meets the fourth Tuesday of each month from 6:30pm-8pm at Hospice of the Red River
resources Valley [1701 38th St S, Fargo]. Please use the west door. This is an ongoing support group for anyone who has experienced the death of a baby through pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or in the first year of life. The purpose of this group is to provide compassionate grief support, understanding, and resources to bereaved parents while allowing them to share their grief in a safe place with others who are experiencing a similar journey. This group is free and open to the public. For more information or questions call 800.237.4629 and ask for the bereavement department. FM Autism Support Group Second Friday of each month from 7pm-9pm at YMCA Downtown [401 1st Av S, Fargo]. For more information visit www.facebook.com/ FM-Autism-Support-Group-171027578792. North Dakota Home-School Association Providing information on the North Dakota home-school law, contacts for area support groups, a free downloadable Home-School Packet, convention information, the current statement-of-intent form, and thoughtful articles on various aspects of private, parent-directed home education. Visit www.homeschool-life. com/nd/ndhsa for more information. HOPE, Inc. Provides a year-round sports and recreation program for children and young adults ages 2-23 with mobility challenges. We are family-centered and provide extra equipment so the ENTIRE family can play! Contact Adair at 701.866.9002 or adair@hopeinconline.org for more information or visit www.hopeinconline.org. Rape & Abuse Crisis Center Crisis intervention, advocacy, and counseling services to all persons who have been victims of domestic violence or sexual abuse. Volunteer or donate. Call 701.293.7273 or visit www.raccfm.com. Eating Disorders Monthly Family & Friends Support Group If you have a loved one with an eating disorder, you are invited and encouraged to attend this support group dedicated to providing a comfortable, supportive, and confidential environment where you will be provided with
information about eating disorders and tools to aid in your loved one’s recovery. This group is open to friends, parents, partners, caregivers, and adult children. Registration: for more information contact Kara Woodbury Fladland, LPCC 701.234.4111, or visit www.sanfordhealth.org/classesandevents/ ClassDetail/cb9a7533-e6f9-41cb-b562-3a7c0fc46f45. Survivor of Suicide Loss Third Thursday of each month. Provide a safe, accepting, and supportive environment and opportunity to talk openly. For more information contact Mary at 701.219.4110 or afspnd@gmail.com. Birthright Pregnancy testing, counseling, prenatal, and parenting education, maternity and infant clothing, emergency supplies of diapers and formula and labor support. All services are free and confidential. To volunteer or donate contact 218.477.1977 or www.birthright.org. PATH of North Dakota An organization offering a more personalized approach to foster care. For more information www.pathinc.org or 701.293.9968. Gluten Intolerance Group of Fargo/Moorhead GIG of F/M holds gatherings for education, fellowship, and support for those living with Celiac Disease, Gluten Intolerance, or Gluten Sensitivity. You do not need to be a paid member of this group to attend any meetings. For more information visit www. gluten.org/localbranches/fargo-moorhead/?state_id=333. MOMS Club of West Fargo Offers support, activities, and friendship for moms who work at home full or part time. For more information visit www.facebook.com/ MOMSClubWestFargo or email momsclubofwf@yahoo.com. For more listings visit www.OnTheMindsOfMoms.com/support. To submit a group or resource for consideration to be posted on our website, email information to info@onthemindsofmoms.com. OTMOM does its best to keep information accurate, but organizations are responsible for providing updated information. It is always a good idea to call ahead to confirm the information provided.
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body + being
oh, the wonderful things your body can do:
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promoting healthy bodies for you and your family
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on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
body + being story by | dr. beth blodgett salafia & maegan jones
D
id you know that body image is one of the strongest contributors to an individual’s overall self-esteem? Body image, or one’s feelings and beliefs about his or her shape and appearance, is an important topic of discussion for children, teens, and even adults. The goal of this article is to help get you thinking about how to promote positive body image not only in yourself, but in your children too.
Why is feeling good about yourself important? Body dissatisfaction, or one’s unhappiness with his or her appearance, can lead to unhealthy eating behaviors, including severe restriction of food, overexercise, or even clinical eating disorders, such as Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, and Other Specified Eating and Feeding Disorder. These disorders are difficult to treat and are associated with many other health problems including, but not limited to, vitamin deficiencies, osteoporosis, heart malfunctions, and kidney or liver failure. body image in children Perceptions about what bodies “should” look like develop early. By age four, children believe that it is unacceptable to be “fat.” By age seven, children indicate that they would diet if they felt overweight. By adolescence, nearly every girl reports at least one dieting attempt due to a perception of being overweight. Not only do children hold views about what type of body is acceptable, but they also begin experiencing their own body dissatisfaction early on, potentially as early as age six. By adolescence, the vast majority of both girls and boys express unhappiness with their current bodies. Most girls express a desire to be thinner. Many boys report that they would like to be more muscular, yet some boys would like to be thinner. These desires are in line with what is presented in popular media: the “thin ideal,” or extreme thinness, for females and the “muscular ideal,” or extreme muscularity, for males.
use every opportunity to interact with your children At a very young age, you can encourage your children
Many parents fret over what toys to buy their children. For example, there are many negative views about Barbies, but our research has shown that playing with Barbies as children is not associated with later body dissatisfaction. Our best advice would be to buy the toys you think are appropriate and fun for your children and, most importantly, spend some time actively playing with your children. If you play with dolls like Barbies, avoid making body comparisons and instead use your play as an opportunity to discuss the unrealistic dimensions of Barbies. Furthermore, think of creative ways to use your bodies, through games like Twister or Simon Says or hopscotch, and discuss how awesome it makes your body feel to stretch and jump.
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The question is: as parents, what can you do to help your children feel comfortable and happy with themselves, while remaining healthy? Below we provide some tips to help promote positive views about bodies.
to think positively about their bodies and what their bodies can do. Books provide a great way to help your children realize that bodies are amazing and can do amazing things. Spend some time reading high-quality books with your children, including books specifically about bodies such as “It’s Okay to Be Different” by Todd Parr and “Shapesville” by Andy Mills and Becky Osborn. Also, make sure to talk about the wonderful things your bodies can do, like run fast or recite the alphabet.
Nikki Welk, PA-C
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body + being Another big concern many parents have is the media. Everywhere you turn there are images of unrealistically thin women and muscular men [emphasis on unrealistic!]. Use these images as a conversation piece with your children. When you see magazines with such images, point out that nearly all models are photoshopped, meaning that computers are used to make certain body parts smaller or a different shape, such as the stomach, arms, and legs. These bodies are actually impossible to attain. When you see movie stars on TV, it is essential that you, as a parent, avoid making comparisons to the movie stars and avoid making comments directly related to the appearance of the body. If your child makes a comment about the bodies of others in the media, don’t ignore it. Instead, use it as an opportunity to discuss why he or she made that comment and to understand what your child thinks about his or her own body. Research suggests that family involvement in prevention, intervention, and treatment of body dissatisfaction is essential. Thus, one of the most important things you can do for your children is interact with them daily, allowing for open dialog about bodies and body image. The more open and inviting you are with your children, the more they will self-disclose to you, and the more willing they will be to work with you towards developing positive views about the body. remember that you are your children’s best role model Research shows that parents are role models to children in countless ways, especially with regard to body image
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and eating. You can model a positive body image to your children by refusing to engage in “fat talk.” Fat talk describes the negative comments individuals make about themselves and others, regarding weight and appearance. Such statements may seem innocent. For instance, the phrases “You look great! Have you lost
research suggests that family involvement in prevention, intervention, and treatment of body dissatisfaction is essential. thus, one of the most important things you can do for your children is interact with them daily, allowing for open dialog about bodies and body image.
weight?” or “Wow, have you been working out?” implies that being thin or muscular is the most important part of looking beautiful or handsome. Other examples of fat talk include statements such as “I’m too fat for that swimsuit,” “She’d look better if she lost five pounds,” and “He shouldn’t wear that shirt.” These types of phrases imply that someone’s self-worth is based on his or her
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on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
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body + being weight. When you make comments like these, whether directly to your children or not, children hear them, think about them, and often later engage in similar commentary with others. Instead, engage in positive talk about yourself. If you find it hard to refrain from commenting about your body, focus on what your body can do—not what it looks like. For example, instead of saying that you don’t like the way you look in your new swimsuit, say how strong your arms and legs are to make you such a good swimmer. Positive talk like this will help you love your body and all of the wonderful things it allows you to do. This will also help you teach your children to love their bodies too. Some other ideas for you to try yourself or with your family include: leaving post-it notes on the mirror with phrases such as “I love your smile,” spending five minutes a day telling everyone in your family something they did that made you happy, and self-affirmative journaling about your positive attributes. You can also reframe any discussion so that you are focusing on positive attributes of the self, rather than the physical body. Perhaps your child is a great speller, or he just engaged in an act of kindness by retrieving another child’s ball, or she just shared her last cookie with you. The more you reinforce the idea that your children’s self-worth is not based on their appearance, the more likely they are to be healthy and happy.
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You can promote healthy eating in your children by focusing on moderation. In other words, encourage your children to regularly eat healthy foods such as fruits, but let them know that other foods such as cake and ice cream are okay to eat once in a while too (maybe as after-meal treats). By encouraging healthy eating while also allowing for moderation, you will
When you model a positive body image and healthy eating behaviors, you are encouraging your children to do the same. So, if you love and take care of your body, it is likely that your children will also love and take care of their bodies. Dr. Beth Blodgett Salafia is an associate professor in the department of Human Development and Family Science and Maegan Jones is a doctoral student in Developmental Science at North Dakota State University. Dr. Salafia leads the Healthy Eating and Body Image Lab, where she and her students seek to help families and children develop healthy attitudes and behaviors related to food and self-perception. Currently, we are recruiting for two studies with mothers and their daughters. For more information, please email maegan.jones@ndsu.edu. Compensation for both mothers and their daughters will be provided.
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Another way to be a role model to your children is to model healthy eating behaviors. One way to do this is to have an “approach” strategy towards eating, instead of an “avoidance” strategy. People who use approach strategies tend to eat foods to be healthy, like seeking to incorporate more vegetables into meals. People who use avoidance strategies tend to avoid food, or specific foods, primarily to avoid becoming overweight. It is not a good idea to entirely avoid certain foods, even those like chocolate. Research suggests that avoiding certain foods, especially ones that you are craving, actually leads to eating more of that food later than you would have originally.
teach your children that no food is “bad” – just not something to eat all the time. While doing this, make sure to avoid verbally labeling foods as “good” or “bad” in order to help your children understand that food provides them with nourishment, and that everyone needs all types of food in order to grow and be strong. As a result, your children will learn to have a healthy, balanced approach style to eating.
august events
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Living with Grief www.boulgerfuneralhome.com Experiencing the death of a loved one is one of the most difficult things we face in life. Consider attending the Living with Grief Drop-in Session at Boulger Funeral Home, [123 10th St S, Fargo], 6pm-7:15pm, and meet the Boulger Funeral Home’s Grief Support Coordinators.
3, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 24, 28 & 31 Farmers' Market & Beyond 701.433.5360 www.wfparks.org
Fresh produce, berries, herbs, meats, jellies, flowers, hand-crafted items & agriculture products will be available for purchase 3:30pm-6:30pm at the South Elmwood Park parking lot [500 13th Av W, West Fargo].
3, 10 & 17
goal is placing rescued pets in loving and responsible homes. A suggested donation of $10 is requested.
Meet the Xcellent Art staff at the park and create take-home arts and crafts, 1pm4pm. The fun travels weekly to different neighborhoods. All supplies provided and different projects each week. See you on the 3rd at Lewis & Clark Park [1807 6th St S, Fargo], the 10th at Madison Park [3010 11th Av N, Fargo], and the 17th at Centennial Park [4101 25th St S, Fargo]. This is a FREE event. Adult supervision is required.
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Park It! www.fargoparks.com
7
Waterama www.fargoparks.com Spend an afternoon having fun with water at Roosevelt Park [1220 9th St N, Fargo], noon-3pm! Play water games and do all sorts of activities that involve water and getting wet.
8
Furry Friends Pet Walk www.courtsplus.org Walk to save the lives of homeless pets in the FM Area. Join us for our annual fundraiser for Adopt-A-Pet at Rheault Farm [2902 25th St S, Fargo]. Registration begins at 5:30pm with the walk starting at 6pm. A 1.5 mile walk with or without your pet will benefit Adopt-A-Pet, whose primary
Party in the Park www.fargoparks.com Join us in a different park each Tuesday night for an evening of family fun, 5:30pm-8pm. Sing your favorite karaoke song, play in the bounce house, create a craft project, get your face painted, and take home a balloon animal. Enjoy free hot dogs and Pepsi products while supplies last. All are welcome! See you at Unicorn Park [1603 3rd Av N, Fargo].
8
RiverArts www.moorheadparks.com There's always something to enjoy at Moorhead RiverArts, 5:30pm-8pm, at Memorial Park [210 8th St N, Moorhead]! Each night features free horse-drawn carriage rides, inflatable games, art and craft vendors, food, ice cream, hands-on activities, and more! All concerts begin at 6pm.
8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29 & 31
Great Plains Farmers Market www.westacres.com The Northern Plains Farmers Market at West Acres [3902 13th Ave S, Fargo], a West Acres Regional Showcase event, serves as a catalyst for making good things happen in our community and in our lives. The FM region has one of the strongest agriculture systems in the world. Come out 10am-5pm and enjoy some local produce!
10
Community Play Day www.fargoparks.com Free Play for all ages at Rheault Farm [2902 25th St S, Fargo], 9am-11am & 1pm-3pm! Play yard games, do a take-home craft, climb on the playground, and move to music outside in the sunshine! Daycares are welcome. Adult supervision required. Special guest Penny and Pals performing at 10:30am & 1:30pm!
10
Big Screen Movie Matinee www.wfparks.org Head to Veterans Memorial Arena [1201 7th Av E, West Fargo] at 1pm to watch Trolls. Don’t forget your blanket or chair [bleachers will be available]. This is a free event but there will be SnoCones, popcorn & pop for $1/each.
we w& e www.onthemindsofmoms.com
“ My smile has brought out the model inside of me.”
Visit www.we-ortho.com or call (701) 293-5300 to take the next step towards a better smile. WE can do it.
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on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
10
ChalkFest @ the Zoo theartspartnership.net/chalkfest/ Let’s fill the Zoo with art! ChalkFest features free admission to the Red River Zoo [4255 23rd Av S, Fargo], Noon-7pm. Zoo demonstrations, artists doing live demonstrations, food vendors, live music, and all-abilities chalking spaces! See you there!
10 & 26
Lego Club www.larl.org All ages and abilities are welcome to come make their own Lego creation at the Moorhead Public Library [118 5th St S, Moorhead] Lego Club, 6pm-8pm on the 10th and 2pm-4pm on the 26th. Supplies provided to build, but make sure to bring your imagination!
14
Kid’s Healthy Cooking: Turkey Taco Boats www.familywellnessfargo.org Kids love tacos! Come to Family Wellness [2960 Seter Parkway, Fargo], 6pm-7pm
and we’ll learn some healthy tips [lettuce wraps, low-fat cheese and ground turkey] to make them love them even more. Ages 5+, 5-7 needs to be accompanied by an adult. Up to 2 kids per adult. $10 Members/$18 Non-Members.
14
Movie Night www.fargoparks.com Bring a blanket, pillow, or lawn chair to Rheault Farm [2902 25th St S, Fargo] & enjoy a starlit night of fun. Watch Moana on an inflatable screen when the sun goes down [approximately 9:30pm]. Free Pepsi products and popcorn while supplies last.
15
Playground Carnival www.courtsplus.org Looking for something fun to do before school starts? Head to Courts Plus [3491 S University Dr, Fargo] 5:30pm-7pm for this FREE carnival! Enjoy carnival games, inflatables, arts & crafts, water games & more! This is for children of all ages and open to the Public.
19 & 20
Pioneer Day 701.282.2822 www.bonanzaville.org
august events
Pioneer Village at Bonanzaville [1351 W Main, West Fargo] comes to life with authentic parades, demonstrations, costumes, and crafts.
24
Ceramic Pumpkins Get a jump start on the pumpkin season with this family program at the Plains Art Museum [704 1st Av N, Fargo], 6pm8pm. Spend a summer evening creating a pumpkin or jack o’ lantern out of clay that can be used for holding a candle or candy. You can decorate your creation with a funny or scary face or curling stems and leaves – the possibilities are endless. Your pumpkin will be ready to take home by the time pumpkin season rolls around. All ages welcome, $10 per participant.
26 & 27
Island Park Show www.fargoparks.com Bring your friends and indulge yourself! Spend a day at Island Park [302 7th St S, Fargo] shopping in the shade! Find unique items, enjoy excellent food, and listen to great music from 10am-5pm.
Your Pe
BES
THE BEST CARE for her
Best Friend
701 .282.2898
816 M e y e r D r i v e , W e s t F a r g o w w w. w e s t f a r g o a n i m a l h o s p i t a l . c o m Request an appointment online!
august • september twenty seventeen | on the minds of moms
23
www.onthemindsofmoms.com
Visit us at our new state-of-the-art facility!
september events
7-15
Greater Moorhead Days www.cityofmoorhead.com Greater Moorhead Days features a variety of events including the annual Greater Moorhead Days parade, the Bridge Bash, Kids Fest, and much more!
9
Fall Rummage Sale www.wfparks.com
4 & 25
No-School Day Camp www.courtsplus.org NO SCHOOL!!! Head to Courts Plus [3491 University Dr S, Fargo], 1pm-4pm, for a variety of activities that include art projects, games, sports, snacks, a movie, and outdoor activities [weather permitting].
5
Living with Grief www.boulgerfuneralhome.com Experiencing the death of a loved one is one of the most difficult things we face in life. Consider attending the Living with Grief Drop-in Session at Boulger Funeral Home, [123 10th St S, Fargo], 6pm-7:15pm, and meet the Boulger Funeral Home’s Grief Support Coordinators.
Head to Veterans Memorial Arena [1201 7th Av E, West Fargo], 7am-1pm, for some treasure hunting! $1 per person, 17 and under free.
9
B.L.A.S.T. Babysitting Camp www.sanfordhealthemseducation.org Babysitting Lessons and Safety Training is the initial course for teens and pre-teens on the responsibilities of caring for children. Held at the F-M Ambulance Service [2215 18th St S, Fargo], 9am-3pm. Participants will learn CPR and first aid for children, as well as diaper-changing techniques. They will also learn when to call 911 and what will happen if they do need emergency assistance. The course is designed for young babysitters ages 11–15. Limited space. Register online.
PARK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Now Enrolling K-12
We inspire children to pursue excellence in moral character, academics, and servant leadership to others!
10
Walk to Fight Suicide 701.371.1194 www.afsp.org/fargo Join us for the Fargo/Moorhead Out of the Darkness Community Walk, 1pm at the Sanford Health Athletic Complex [The SHAC at NDSU]. Proceeds benefit local and national suicide prevention and awareness programs of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
10
11
CCEC Day @ the Zoo www.redriverzoo.org Head to the Red River Zoo [4255 23rd Av S, Fargo] 5pm-8pm and enjoy free admission, free carousel rides, and animal demonstrations sponsored by Cass County Electric Cooperative. All are welcome!
10, 17 & 24
Healthy Moms for Healthy Babies: Prenatal Yoga www.sanfordhealth.org Head to Sanford Southpointe Clinic [2400 32nd Av S, Fargo], 3pm-4pm, for a Prenatal Yoga class focused on breathing and safe
PATH
sequences which can help ease labor and delivery. A Certified Prenatal Yoga Instructor will take you through a basic routine. Our prenatal structure encourages movement into optimal birthing positioning, as well as strengthening and softening the pelvic floor to make for a safe labor, and works muscles that mom will need in the early stages after baby has arrived. Our yoga class ends with a deep guided relaxation to help restore the body at this changing time. Register online.
Women’s Health Conference www.womens-healthconference.com We’re doing something we’ve never done before. Something so inspiring, everyone needs to be here together. Something so big, we needed a new venue. Something so powerful and passion filled, it has to be a full-day affair. Whether you're from Minot or Fargo, Minnesota or Montana, you will want to be at this year’s Women’s Health Conference at the Bismarck Event Center [315 S 5th St, Bismarck] featuring author, blogger, mom, and activist Glennon Doyle and health coach Angela Gaffney! Experience a full day devoted to healthy living by whole-heartedly connecting mind, spirit, body.
NORTH DAKOTA A
FAMILY MEMBER
You can Make the Difference for a Child in Your Community. Be a Foster Parent. Call Today. A Child is Waiting.
PATH
IDAHO A
FAMILY MEMBER
Experience the Difference Come for an
www.onthemindsofmoms.com
Educational Consultation Call 218-236-0500
to set up an appointment.
PARK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
ParkChristianSchool.org
24
on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
changing one life
CHANGES EVERYTHING
Families Making the Difference 877-766-7284 • www.pathinc.org
11 & 18
Heartsaver CPR/AED www.sanfordhealthemseducation.org Held at the F-M Ambulance Service [2215 18th St S, Fargo], 7pm-10pm, the Heartsaver AED course covers basic adult, child, and infant CPR, plus how to use an AED [Automated External Defibrillator]. This is not intended for healthcare professionals. Our staff of EMTs and nurses deal with life and death every day and bring their real-life situations to the classroom. Register online.
14
Basic Training for Dads 701.364.8100 www.essentiahealth.org This one-evening class, 6:30pm-8:30pm at Essentia Health [3000 32nd Av S, Fargo], is designed for ‘Dads to be’ and is taught by an experienced Dad. Topics covered include adjustments to fatherhood, how to support Mom, and the basics of infant care.
14 & 23
16, 17, 23 & 24
All ages and abilities are welcome to come make their own Lego creation at the Moorhead Public Library [118 5th St S, Moorhead] Lego Club, 6pm-8pm on the 14th and 2pm-4pm on the 23rd. Supplies provided to build, but make sure to bring your imagination!
Head to Rheault Farm [2902 25th St S, Fargo] for a ton of Fall fun! Arts & crafts, carnival games, face painting, inflatable bounce house, and so much more. Free admission [ticket purchase required for games and rides], doors open 10am-5pm on the 16th & 23rd, noon-5pm on the 17th & 24th.
Lego Club www.larl.org
16 & 17
West Fest www.westfargond.gov Craft fair, family fun, softball tournament, pancake feed, grand parade, WF Jam, and much more in West Fargo!
september events
Fall Festival www.fargoparks.com
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Reel Movies for Real Needs www.marcustheatres.com Sometimes it is difficult or uncomfortable for families with special needs children to attend movies together.Century Cinema offers a welcoming and comfortable
environment - lower sound, lights up where families with children who need accommodations will be able to share the experience of seeing family-friendly films at a theatre. Be there at 10:30am to see The Lego Ninjago Movie!
All event listings displayed within OTMOM are carefully selected to provide diverse options for families. More events found online at www.onthemindsofmoms.com/event-calendar. It is always a good idea to call ahead to confirm the information provided. Although it is not possible to list every event happening in the FM area, we encourage organizations to submit events for consideration to events@onthemindsofmoms.com
INSPIRING DREAMS... BUILDING CONFIDENCE...
AchieEvinxgcellence
www.onthemindsofmoms.com
CLASSES FOR BOYS & GIRLS | 18 MONTHS - 18 YEARS
701-280-0400
www.AmericanGoldGymnastics.com august • september twenty seventeen | on the minds of moms
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exposures by j. linnea
shutterbug
exposures by j. linnea
rialee photography
The best thing about a picture is that it never changes, even when the people in it do. rialee photography
caitlin killoran photography
caitlin killoran photography
— Andy Warhol
gettin’ through it
beam me up
what can lasers do for you?
story by | dr. rachel ness
D
o you know that lasers can be used for medical AND cosmetic concerns?
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A lot of our new patients are surprised to hear about all the options that exist for their medical diseases or cosmetic concerns. In our dermatology clinic we pride ourselves on educating our patients in a professional environment about some of the most up-to-date procedures and treatments for all skin conditions. As a board-certified dermatologist, I have the ability to use a wide array of medications and procedures to serve our dermatology patients’ many skin concerns. So are lasers an option for you? is a laser procedure right for me? Skin can be damaged from the sun, aging, skin diseases, trauma, or environmental irritants. Lasers can improve skin damage. If you are not happy with your skin, whether it is a medical or cosmetic issue, a dermatologist can tell you if he or she can improve it. I always say to my patients, “Tell me your concerns with your skin and I will tell you what we can offer and what realistic outcomes you should expect from our interventions.” Then I let the patient decide whether to pursue any treatments. 28
on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
what are the benefits of laser procedure? Lasers are a diverse group of medical devices that can treat many medical conditions, depending upon the type of laser. Some lasers we use are for medical conditions such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, vitiligo [skin pigment loss], vascular growths [red spots], and birthmarks. Other lasers we have are strictly used for cosmetic improvement such as facial wrinkles, rejuvenation, skin brightening, brown spots, red spots, sun damage, melasma, scars, stretch marks, and facial flushing/redness. One of our most popular laser treatments is the XTRAC excimer laser. XTRAC is an FDA-cleared, clinically proven excimer laser that can treat many medical conditions, such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and vitiligo—and it works fast, with many patients seeing significant improvement and long-lasting remissions. Because XTRAC delivers a highly targeted, therapeutic beam of UVB light only to areas of the diseased skin, healthy skin surrounding the lesions stays that way. XTRAC clears the symptoms, prolongs the remission, and returns skin to a clinically healthy state in record time. Many patients pursue laser treatment to avoid side effects from topical or internal medications.
gettin’ through it can everyone experience benefits? We meet with each patient and review treatment options and benefits and decide what the best treatment is for that patient. Sometimes the best treatment is one laser, several lasers, or no laser at all. We may recommend prescription medications [put on the skin or taken by mouth] or other types of procedures [surgery, injections]. what does a laser procedure entail? Skin preparation varies based on the type of laser used. A typical laser procedure involves a small preparation time including a cleanser, possibly a topical numbing cream, protective eye wear, the laser procedure [anywhere from 5 min to 60 minutes depending on the laser], and often a brief post-procedure regimen that may include skin cooling, topical medications/ sunscreen, and post-procedure skin-care instructions.
laser quick facts • Simple, painless treatment— sessions are very short but can require multiple treatments. • Relief without messy creams and daily skin care regimen. • Covered by most major insurance companies.
does it hurt? Some lasers you won’t even feel and others require topical anesthesia/numbing cream. Typically, lasers are very well tolerated with minimal discomfort. is more than one treatment required? Certain medical conditions only require one procedure and other conditions require multiple follow-up appointments. before XTRAC treatment for psoriasis
after XTRAC treatment for psoriasis
evaluate insurance coverage. Then we let the patient know if he or she has any insurance restrictions or any out–of-pocket expense before the patient decides whether to have laser treatment.
photo courtesy of dr. meisenheimer
does insurance cover the procedure? Medical conditions such as psoriasis, vitiligo, and atopic dermatitis are covered by most major insurance companies. After we do a medical consultation and decide if lasers are the right treatment for the patient, our staff works with the insurance companies to
Rachel Ness M.D. is a board-certified dermatologist at Fargo Center for Dermatology and has been providing dermatology care for children and adults at her clinic for nine years in Fargo. For more information please call 701.478.8780 or visit www.fargoderm.com. Dermatologists are the physician experts in the diagnosis of skin, hair, and nail conditions and are specially trained to provide the highest-quality medical, surgical, and cosmetic treatments. Learn more about keeping your skin, hair, and nails healthy at www.aad.org. august • september twenty seventeen | on the minds of moms
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www.onthemindsofmoms.com
Now you know some facts about laser treatment. As with any procedural treatment, there are risks associated. However, you can reduce the risks by asking the right questions of your medical provider: • Is the medical provider a board-certified dermatologist or other appropriately trained medical provider? • What results can be expected? How long is the recuperation period? • What are the risks? • Where is the procedure being performed? The procedure should be performed in a medical center or doctor’s office. • What is the cost?
what's on your mind
the long goodbye www.onthemindsofmoms.com
story by | kari klingsporn hitterdal
I
am counting the days until I drop my first born off at college. This is the moment I have lost sleep over more than almost any other parenting fear or milestone I've encountered over the last 18 years. Since the moment I learned I was pregnant, I've worried. A lot. Perhaps too much. I've worried common worries about my child’s health and happiness. I've also had more than I care to admit irrational fears about my kids…like worrying my son as a toddler had hit his head on the hardwood 30
on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
floors so many times that I began questioning he could really hurt himself and suffer long-term consequences. (He's fine, by the way.) But, this? This is it. All of my parenting choices, good, bad, or otherwise, come down to this moment. The excitement, wonder, and awe that this man-child has become an exceptional human being has overwhelmed me the last few months. I can't believe I held such a strong influence in such an amazing person’s life. The pain I feel is like no other pain I've ever felt.
what's on your mind When my friends say things like ‘I can't wait to get this baby out of me!’ or ‘I can't wait until my child is more independent!’, I say, “No, you don’t!” The minute you have that baby, you start your journey of the long goodbye. Everything you do for them, teach them, every milestone achieved once they are born is one step closer to them leaving you, not needing you. And, is what we do as parents ever enough? The lessons, the time we spend together, the activities we offer, all the parenting tricks to grow up an exceptional human being….is it ever enough? No. Although I know that
So, now what? I take a step back. I let him know I love him and I will always be right here if he needs me. I tell him it is time to really spread his wings and fly—and do it for himself and not anyone else. We only get one shot at living our life and while I've enjoyed being his main source of love, support, and wisdom for so long, I know he can do this life on his own. We don't leave our parents’ care knowing everything we need to be successful adults, but hopefully our parents let us learn enough life lessons to feel confident in taking on most trials we encounter and also gave their children a reminder that love and support doesn't end even though the child has left the nest. I pray I have done that.
the minute you have that baby, you start your journey of the long goodbye. everything you do for them, teach them, every milestone achieved once they are born is one step closer to them leaving you
I'm excited for him. And scared, but mostly excited. I'm excited for myself, too, as my place in this world shifts. I'm scared for myself, too. More scared than excited. Oh, and I am thankful he is only 9.4 miles from home—about 16 minutes in light traffic. Not that I have it mapped on my smartphone or anything. Spread your wings, son, and fly!
is okay, I still have to say goodbye to a life I dreamed of years before becoming a mother, now knowing our family connection won't ever be quite the same without him in the house full time.
Kari's passion for food, family, and fun has been with her since her upbringing on her beloved Big Floyd Lake near Detroit Lakes, MN. She earned Secondary Education degrees in both Social Studies and English from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN. She enjoyed a brief stint as a caterer and cooking instructor, but has proudly spent most of her motherhood as a stay-at-home mom. Her husband, Brent, and three children, Gunnar, Ava, and Ella, have all [mostly] been eager taste testers to whatever is on the table for dinner. However, these days, having a high schooler, a middle schooler, and a second grader is providing new challenges of feeding everyone homemade and healthy meals, as well as giving her oven an intense workout most weeknights!
Get motivated to make changes for a happy, healthy life during this day of fun, relaxation, and inspiration.
www.onthemindsofmoms.com
Monday, September 11, 2017 Bismarck Event Center
Glennon Doyle The New York Times bestselling author & Momastery.com founder
Tickets: $70 | Reserve today: womens-health-conference.com Join the conversation:
/womenshealthconference
@WomensHealthCon #WHC2017
august • september twenty seventeen | on the minds of moms
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www.onthemindsofmoms.com
just a thought
building connections
story by | kathleen wrigley
H
ave you ever been shushed? Not shushed in a movie theatre or in church when proper etiquette trumps idle chatter. Rather, have you been shushed when you have something important to say, or when there’s a reason and purpose to your discussion? 32
on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
I have been shushed. You know the feeling. It’s diminishing. It makes you feel small and irrelevant. Now, admittedly, I am a talker. The phrase “TMI” [FYI: that’s Too Much Information] might’ve been coined after having a conversation with me. I am a sharer. And I like to hear people’s stories too. I believe in sharing
our journeys. It connects us. And it’s only through human-to-human contact that we empathize, support, experience, encourage, learn from, and love one another. Shushing stifles. The harshest “shush” I’ve experienced came when I publicly shared my family’s pain through an appellate challenge in court by the man who murdered my brother. It was 24 years after the charges had been deliberated and decided upon by many courts, including the United States Supreme Court [twice], and upheld. I was advised to “tone down” my rhetoric because sharing details about my family’s painful story might make people uncomfortable. And because my husband was a public official it was recommended that I be more reserved. I wasn’t screaming like a banshee. I was documenting the outrageous, real-life horror of the criminal justice system, and giving victims a voice in the suffocating silence.
to book a session, visit caitlinkilloranphotography.com C
I have since wondered whether these advisors regret shushing me. I have not asked them. It doesn’t matter. It was my story. I shared it. It brought attention to much-needed improvement in our system. Furthermore, sharing our experience validated and connected victims’ families, who are too often muted and pushed aside. I did not heed the political advisors’ recommendations. I followed my heart. I like to connect with people. I don’t like being shushed or scripted. It seems manufactured and plastic. I struggled with people telling me how to act publicly. I think I’ve done okay being me. And, frankly, I prefer just being me. There are two parts to connecting: sharing and listening. It is quite a gift to be adept at both. It is a skill few of us have mastered. I’m working on being a better listener. It doesn’t come naturally for me. I’m more of a talker. The longer I live, the more I learn that listening is an art. It’s an art that brings wisdom.
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My cousin, Tommy Kelly, is one of those rare birds who is a boss at listening. For as long as I can remember Tommy wanted to hear people’s stories. He genuinely cared to listen. Tommy is my second cousin, but always made me feel like a first. He’s 15 years older than I am. I remember when I was a teenager Tom asked questions about school, work, and friends. When most adults circled and visited, holding on to the “kids should be seen and not heard” adage, Tom floated from person to person, youngest to eldest, connecting and listening. Even with years and miles between us, I have always
august • september twenty seventeen | on the minds of moms
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just a thought felt close to Tommy. He knows us. Because he chose to know us. Even as kids, he never shushed us. I’ll never forget the blanket of prayers being said for me and our family as I headed in to my second brain aneurysm surgery. Tommy quoted Margaret Thatcher, “Sometimes you have to fight a battle more than once to win it.” Tom has [just this week] been diagnosed with lung cancer. It’s human nature to desperately want to find a why, so people wonder, “Did he smoke?” No. Tommy has never smoked a day in his life. Life is a mystery. The malignancy has metastasized to many parts of his body. Cancer is stealing him from us and from his teenaged boy, Jake. We are stunned and sad. Of course, we know this disease cannot replace the indelible mark this man has made on us. As mouthy teenagers, he took the time to talk to us, to connect with us. No one is invisible when Tommy Kelly is in the room, not even a kid. Tom is a physician’s assistant. He spent his career listening to and caring about people. What a consequential impact he’s made. I cannot think of my cousin, Tommy Kelly, without remembering his hometown of Ashland, Pennsylvania. The biggest tourist attraction this tiny town offers is a ride on the train [the “loci” as we called it] through the coal mines. The locomotive connects to other cars on the track and the conductor recites the history of
the coal mines to its passengers. The loci is relatively useless without its links to the other cars. Like the loci in Ashland, Tommy is our reliable connection. Connections are vital to the human spirit. And one is too small a number to achieve any meaningful greatness. A train’s value comes from its ability to transport massive amounts of cargo or people, and doing so requires the locomotive to link up with freight cars. Traveling alone a locomotive would arrive empty-handed after wasting a great deal of fuel. In these last few days, I’ve listened to my memories of my cousin Tommy. He is not a shusher. He notices people. He has lived his life making connections, quietly and reliably. Tom has not squandered this gift. He may have to fight this battle more than once to win it. But he won’t fight alone. His freight cars are lined up, chugging along and pushing him forward on this uncharted journey. Fitness is an integral part of Kathleen’s daily routine and helps her sustain her own mental health! Kathleen’s column “ just a thought” has been a regularly occurring piece in “on the minds of moms” since 2009. Kathleen is a Philadelphia native, and has called North Dakota her second home for the last 18 years. Before becoming a mom, she was director for Bismarck’s Child Advocacy Center and was a speechwriter. Kathleen received a BS from Pennsylvania State University and completed her graduate studies at Temple University in Philadelphia. Currently, Kathleen is a graduate student at the University of Mary, pursuing a second master’s degree, this time in School Counseling.
Have You Registered for Kindergarten Yet? Registration is open online at: www.fargo.k12.nd.us/registration
LS
O FA R G
OO
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BLIC S C
H
PU
Once online registration has been completed, families MUST bring their child’s certified birth certificate, current immunization record, and proof of residence(utility bill) to the school their child will attend or the district office. Please call ahead of your visit to the school to ensure they are staffed. Child must be age 5 by July 31, 2017. Check to see which school your child will attend at www.fargo.k12.nd.us/boundarymaps or call 701.446.1043
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on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
we are
ONLINE, DIGITAL & SOCIAL
in moms purses B U T M O S T I M P O R TA N T LY
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with the most read magazine for parents in the red river valley EMAIL US FOR INFORMATION AT
ADVERTISE@ONTHEMINDSOFMOMS.COM SIMPLE MATH: OUR MOMS + YOUR MARKETING =
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august • september twenty seventeen | on the minds of moms
35
S
econd semester of his freshman year at NDSU, Brady Nash knew he was meant to be an entrepreneur. So this Canadian born, Lidgerwood, ND, high school graduate dropped out of college to follow the path of business owner-
ship. He is currently owner and CEO of BNG Payments in West Fargo. Away from work you can find Brady with his wife Brandi and their four kiddos, daughters Skye [6], Summer [2], and Savannah [10 months], and son Raine [4].
photos: rialee photography | ria czichotzki
brady nash
age 31, fargo.nd
rad dad
my kids would describe me as…
people would be surprised to know…
the bestest dad in the world and I love spending time with them [I asked my son this question and this is what he said, lol].
I never was a W-2 employee until I employed myself in our business. I was 21 years old.
if i had to eat only three things for the rest of my life, they would be…
how to greet everyone with a smile and respect people.
meat, ice cream, chips
the family member most like me… my son Raine looks like me, but my daughter Skye embodies more of my personality.
it’s important to me my kids learn…
my biggest pet peeve… people who say they are going to do something and then they don’t.
www.onthemindsofmoms.com
august • september twenty seventeen | on the minds of moms
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rad dad the most challenging thing about having four kids is... trying to give them each their own individual time. We get lots of family time, but I also think one-onone time is important.
if i could give my wife anything it would be… the perfect balance of kid time and adult interaction.
i am not embarrassed to admit… I’m not that smart. I’m just extremely driven.
on an organizational scale of 1–5, i am… a4
if i could be famous it would be for… helping other entrepreneurs.
if i could spend an entire day with any person from any time period, it would be…
www.onthemindsofmoms.com
easy! Jesus of Nazareth. Imagine the answers I could get for us all! Like, exactly what happened to the dinosaurs?
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on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
www.onthemindsofmoms.com
august • september twenty seventeen | on the minds of moms
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oh, by the way
story by | deb uglem
www.onthemindsofmoms.com
A
couple weeks ago I was searching desperately for my prized Merona black blazer. It’s my favorite. I bought that thing at Target about six years ago. It looks like it came straight out of Barneys and when I put it on I feel like a super-hip version of myself. Also, I know it has magic powers, because I have been about 25 different sizes over the last six years and it always fits. I let out an “uuggh!” from my closet and grabbed a jean jacket and was out the door. My husband asked, “What’s wrong?” My answer, “Everything.” This leads me to a confession. My dirty little secret. I don’t have it all together. I’m a step off lately. Just not as productive. How do I know that I have lost control? My closet is a mess. My psyche has always been connected to my closet. Weird, but true. It seems that when things start to go 40
on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
my closet, my calm
south, my closet is simply a mess. I mean a real mess. Piles of clothes on the floor, newly bought items in bags shoved into corners, shirts falling off hangers, and a laundry basket filled with belts and purses. I am not sure the exact order of the mess and dysfunction. I think it may be a chicken-and-egg kind of thing. That may never be answered, as I don’t notice until I am knee deep [literally], for instance, in my closet trying to find aforementioned blazer. This phenomenon started years ago. When I was young a clean room meant tossing a couple armfuls of stuff from the floor to the closet and I was on with my busy days filled with shooting baskets, football games, and driving around. This always came back to haunt me and I remember being in tears because I couldn’t find my Guess jeans. A more recent example is my freshman year of college when I found myself seven hours from home, balancing school, basketball, and a 10’ x 12’
oh, by the way room with a stranger. Let’s just say my small dorm closet reflected it. I’ll never forget coming back from class and my roommate walking me through how she straightened, hung, and folded my clothes. She followed with her suggestions on where to put my shoes. This one lesson is probably why today she is my daughter’s godmother. Simply life changing, Al! Consider this your public thank you. Instantly I felt productive, organized, and on top of my game. Fast forward to marriage, kids, and real life. It was more of the same. I used closet cleaning as a coping mechanism. Each year before the kids would head back to school, I would go into their closets and completely reorganize. I think it made me feel like I had some kind of control over the next year of school or the idea of them moving on and, dare I say, moving out. Next step, we hired a closet organizer -- I mean the real deal – and my world changed. She designed and installed our dream closet complete with belt hanger, ironing board, and shoe shelves [lots of shoe shelves]. I would sit in my closet and just marvel in it [at least some of the time].
I spent some time organizing, hanging up, and I guess all-around fixing my closet and myself. Not only did I get the house organized and groceries bought, but I finished this article. If you would look in my closet today you would find about 14 swimsuits, college t-shirts, boy’s stolen jerseys from high school, and the shirt I was wearing when I got engaged. You will also find skinny jeans, fat jeans, and my grandma Cec’s black belt. My closet may drive me crazy but it also keeps me grounded. And at the risk of sounding dramatic, my closet is my world. My closet is my calm. And for those of you keeping score, don’t worry. I found my Merona black blazer; it was at the dry cleaner’s. Problem solved. Life solved. Deb is a city girl from Finley, ND, and she and her husband, Tim, have called the Fargo-Moorhead area home for the last 15 years. She graduated from Drake University in Des Moines, IA, with a degree in Journalism and Mass Communications. Currently Deb’s day job is working on her next adventure and she welcomes the pleasant distraction that writing brings. She is mom to Jake [23], Tony [22], Nick [22], and Emily [20], and credits them for her inspiration. She fills her spare time with golf, HGTV, shopping, and Netflix.
A closet can tell you a lot about a person. Some people may have one item in four different colors, some may have clothes with the tags still on, some may have one dominant color, or their closet may look like a rainbow. I think I would have to check “all of the above.” I am sure some educated individual could tell you what type of person this makes me. All I can say is that I have a special bond with clothes and my closet and it started young [thanks mom!]. If I feel like I am losing control I go to my closet and gain some perspective. Last week
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what i know photos: casie beldo
cindy hutchins
story by | sheri kleinsasser stockmoe
I
f she closes her eyes, she can hear the music and her mother calling out the tempo, “1-2-3-4, 1-2-3-4…” Every day after school the family’s basement in Crookston, Minnesota, would transform into a dance studio. Cindy would watch her mom from the steps as she instructed each child, patiently listening to their questions, setting expectations, and truly enjoying what she was doing. These small dance classes were Cindy’s first lessons in being a teacher, a leader. Lessons she would perfect.
photos: rialee photography | ria czichotzki
what i know Cindy and her high-school-sweetheart-turned husband, Scott, were recent newlyweds when she started her career at Nativity Elementary School in Fargo. “We were married June 26, 1976, and that September I started teaching at Nativity,” she explains with a smile. For eleven years Cindy would have her own elementary classroom, as well as help start Nativity’s kindergarten program. Then this working mom of two, who at the time had taken one school administration course, was asked to take on the role of principal. “I said I’d do it for one year just to see," she says with a laugh at the irony of that one year turning into 29 as principal…40 total at Nativity...and completion of her Administrative Degree.
staff. People who work for her know, without a doubt, they are respected and valued.” Maybe one of the best examples of Cindy’s positive outlook regarding her career is the fact there is another Principal Hutchins in the family. While John is an attorney American Academy of Neurology, Joe is principal at Banaadir Academy, a k-8 charter school in North Minneapolis that serves a one-hundred-percent Somali population. Banaadir Academy is part of the Minnesota Transitions Charter schools district which has nine different programs serving a variety of at-risk student populations. Did his mom have any influence of him going into education? Absolutely!
Forty years? Really? Forty years with the same employer? “She helped shine a light into how fun and satisfying Forty years of doing your job well year after year? Forty being in education could be,” Joe explains. “I love the years of liking your job? Is that really possible? For Cindy, discussions we have as I enter the administration side yes. But seriously, how? Weeks after announcing her of education. I realize every day how much I still have retirement, Cindy reflects on her career that spanned to learn to become successful. I'm happy that I have four decades. Whether you’re climbing the corporate one of the best to lean on.” ladder, a stay-at-home mom, or looking to make a change, Key point: Be positive and find the good…because Cindy has learned lessons we all need to incorporate it’s there. in our life’s lesson plan. lesson #2: celebrate the moments lesson #1: be positive “I treasure simple moments,” Cindy says. “We have a thing “She has a great spirit!” John Hutchins says of his mom. with moments in our family that the daughters-in-law “She’s welcoming, selfless, thoughtful, and fun.” Younger have had to learn because John will say, "Mom, are you brother Joe agrees. “She is a warm, welcoming person having a moment?" We make fun of it, but yet it's a who always greets you with a smile,” he says. “She special thing in our family.” works tirelessly to make everyone feel happy.” If you’ve met Cindy Hutchins, you know her boys aren’t biased, but spot on.
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“I think I'm a positive person,” Cindy says. “Not that I don't have down days, but because of all the influences I have and a great husband at my side, I think I always try to see the positive in any situation. I think that's really helpful.”
Celebrating the second-grade musical, a positive report at teachers’ conferences, completion of swimming lessons, meeting your big deadline, we have so many moments we can stop and say, “Yeah, we did it!” But too often we don’t take that time. Why? “Thinking it has to be a big, fancy thing is a mistake. It doesn't. We're going out to Duane's Pizza tonight for our 41st wedding anniversary, that's a moment!” Cindy says with a laugh. “Celebrate those ordinary moments.”
Sue Thoreson has known Cindy for 27 years. Her children attended Nativity while she worked as a teacher there. Key point: Enjoy your moments and celebrate them. And she served as Cindy’s Administrative Assistant [aka right-hand woman] for seven years. “With her lesson #3: be flexible megawatt smile and engaging manner, she's hard to “I can spontaneously go in a different direction, and I forget!” Sue explains. “Cindy's qualities as a leader are think that's important,” Cindy shares. “I think I'm pretty numerous and all positive. At the top of the list is her quick on my feet, with very little knowledge behind it.” ability to listen - intently. She is compassionate and But being flexible doesn’t mean losing sight of your focus. empathetic. I've always admired her personal integrity and appreciation for the dignity of her students and “I'm pretty mission driven, mission being what's best for the kids,” Cindy says of her driving force that guided her 44
on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
what i know
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what i know
what i know all these years. “I try to keep that right in the forefront of absolutely everything.”
as she assured them, even though this was scary, all would be well.”
That focus was evident to those around her.
“Oh, of course I did,” Cindy says of the fact she cried in each classroom. “I had been trying to hide those tears.” “She always signed her newsletters 'in kids and Christ', But she couldn’t in front of her kids and she answered and this was how she operated,” Sue says of Cindy’s their questions and listened to their stories. “Of course, career focus. “As parents, we knew no matter what everyone had somebody they knew who had died, which was on her plate, our children were her first priority. didn't help,” she says with a laugh! “I just wanted them As staff, she enabled us the unique opportunity to be to know that they could ask me a question, and that educators, but put our families before our jobs. She they didn't have to shy away from asking.” is a devout woman with great faith. Her faith guided every action during the school day and problems were “She did this for their security and peace of mind, but also always resolved beginning with prayerful reflection.” for her own peace,” Sue shares. “She shared the news in her own way, with the detail she felt they needed, and Scott agrees, “Every ounce of her being and aspect of put a very positive, healthy spin on a difficult situation. her work at Nativity was directed toward and for the It was beautiful and very Cindy-like!” benefit of the children, whether that be their personal growth, religious instruction, or academic achievement.” Cindy’s treatment would require surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. It was tough. Key point: Your plans may change, but don’t lose sight of your focus. “I thought I knew everything about this woman to that point, but now I realize how much she taught me lesson #4: don’t be underestimated through this experience,” Sue says. “It would be easy, Being around kids nine months out of the year for over and understandable, for anyone in this situation to four decades gives you some valuable perspective on kids. focus inward and put 'self' first. Not Cindy! Her chief “I think too often adults take for granted the wisdom concern was for the welfare of her students, their kids have, just the insight that kids have,” Cindy says. families, and staff.” “You kind of think, "Oh, they won't get it. They don't know what's going on." I think people don't listen to Cindy missed very little work, preferring to be at kids as much as they probably should.” school. “School was her therapeutic place,” Sue explains. “The kids would physically show their love and concern Cindy gets kids and she respects them. for her with their smiles and big hugs. Staff could share their love personally, assuring her we would keep her In 2015 she was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was ship afloat when she was away or occupied. These were a scary time filled with uncertainty, but Cindy didn’t things that calmed her, filled her with peace and joy, shy away from the situation or her students. She told and enabled her to fight a very big fight - and win. I was her staff, prepared a memo to be emailed to Nativity in awe of her strength during this time. She amazed parents at the end of the school day, and that afternoon me with her fortitude and faith.” visited each classroom, kindergarten through fifth grade, to tell them about her situation.
Sue remembers how moving it was to see her friend visit each classroom. “I think she did this to be completely transparent and honest with the kids,” Sue says. “She wanted to allay their fears and let them see her face
At her last appointment at Mayo Clinic, Cindy’s oncologist gave her a great report and rather than returning in six-months like she had since she finished treatment, he didn’t want to see her until next year. “That was a great feeling,” Cindy says with a smile. Key point: No matter what, never underestimate…yourself. a legacy “Cindy did things right,” Scott says of his wife’s career. “She epitomized commitment and compassion. She took time to sincerely listen yet was willing and capable to
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www.onthemindsofmoms.com
“If they had questions, I wanted them to be able to ask me,” she shares. “I wanted to be able to respond. I did kind of think about if I just send out a memo or have the teachers share it with the kids, but ultimately I wanted to be the one they heard it from."
what i know make decisions regardless of their difficulty.” Through all the years, what is Cindy most proud of? What’s her legacy? Having students come back with their children; wanting their children to have the experience they had, to me, is what I feel was my best. That’s the best gift because something good must have happened in their time there, that they would want to come back.” Former students now 30, 40-years old ask Cindy if the Christmas program still ends with the singing of the “Lights of the City?” Or do they still fly kites the last day of school? Or what about the carnival? The traditions that stick in people's memories mean a lot to Cindy.
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“That’s probably my legacy; the moments,” Cindy says with a smile. “Oh, who would have thought? Moments rather than scores!"
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on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
Considering the impact his mom has had on him and his brother personally and professionally, John is reminded of a quote by Elbert Hubbard. "He [or She] has achieved success who has worked well, laughed often, and loved much," he recites. “My mom has achieved great success!” Reflecting on her career and the number of lives she has touched, one has to wonder, was this her calling? “It must have been,” she says with a sweet smile and short pause before continuing. “It was. And I've loved it…every minute of it.” Proud mama of Seely and Shya, and wife to Van Halen super-fan Stu, Sheri is also co-founder of OTMOM. She believes in UND green, Jesus, burnt marshmallows make the best s’mores, coffee…lots and lots of coffee, she has the best mom and dad ever, and without a doubt EVERYONE has a story to share.
what i know
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ready, set, grow
story by | patricia carlson
W
e all want the same things for our kids. Happiness. Good health. A loving relationship when they get older. To be fully potty trained by the time they turn three. #amiright?
There is one common theme among most new parents, however, that binds us together like breadcrumbs in a really good meatloaf. A kid who eats. Not just exists on cereal, mac ’n cheese, and chicken fingers. But a kid who really eats. Who relishes trying new foods. Who understands—and embraces—the concept of a thank-you bite. Who associates food with something a bit bigger then him/herself—a new culture, a new ingredient, a new texture—and explores it. Who makes it easy for you when you throw together a new recipe as you try to clean out the pantry or deep freeze. But raising a foodie can be as difficult as blending the perfect béchamel. Each person has his/ her own tolerance levels when it comes to flavors, textures, temperatures; and you may not know where your child falls on this spectrum until his/her first bite of mushy peas. We are, however, enjoying a culinary renaissance in America that stretches all the way to first-foods, so there is no reason not to at least try to broaden your child’s palate.
how to raise a foodie
ready, set, grow
liver soup…one of the earliest flavors canned even by gerber! this crazy concoction was discontinued in the 1950s…thank goodness!
wee ones [0–18 months]
H
ey, parents, no pressure or anything, but raising a future foodie all starts with you. If you’re picky or highly restrictive in your own eating, it increases the likelihood that your child will be too. Kids model all parents’ behaviors. What you use to fuel your body is no exception.
wonton womb Some experts believe that taste preferences are formed in the womb. If true, then chowing down on junk food is a recipe for disaster once your baby starts to consume real food. We’re not saying you have to avoid ice cream, pizza, and French fries altogether, but if you are open to diversifying your diet during pregnancy, it will benefit both you and baby. “At 21 weeks after conception, a developing baby weighs about as much as a can of Coke—and he or she can taste it, too. Still in the womb, the growing baby gulps down several ounces of amniotic fluid daily,” writes Gretchen
Cuda-Kroen for NPR’s Morning Edition. “That fluid surrounding the baby is actually flavored by the foods and beverages the mother has eaten in the last few hours.” starter soup You can eschew the traditional starter food of white rice and breastmilk/formula cereal if you choose. You wouldn’t eat that bland mess, would you? Single-ingredient purees like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, peas, carrots, and apples are perfectly fine for a six-month-old [or whatever age you’re comfortable with doling out first bites]. Store-bought or homemade is up to you. Once that goes down smoothly, you have a couple of options. Introduce a pinch of powdered seasoning into your single-ingredient purees [ginger in blueberry puree or lemongrass in carrot puree is super yummy] or, as Parents Magazine suggests, go for a puree playdate with blends like zucchini and lentil, broccoli and chicken, or peaches and spinach.
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on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
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ready, set, grow
your tot needs about 1,000-1,400 calories per day depending on his age, size, and activity level.
tots
[18 months–3 years]
T
here is a reason finger foods are so much fun! They are perfectly portioned, primed for dipping, and portable with your child’s developing pincer grip. Just what you need to keep your budding foodie interested. chunky dunk Finger foods also introduce your kiddo to new textures. The first step is to think outside the box when it comes to finger foods. We know you’re going to need to rely on certain standbys like processed animal-shaped crackers and bites of string cheese, but there are so many other creative finger foods that you can make at home or look for in a store. Stir-fried tofu bites, deep-fried green beans, or handmade buttermilk baked chicken nuggets all come to mind.
Once your kiddo has a grip on these new finger foods, it’s time to introduce a more complex flavor profile by offering a variety of dipping sauces. This is such a silly way to offer sophisticated flavors. Your tot won’t even know your true intention because she’ll be having too much fun dredging her zucchini sticks through tangy lemon aioli. Other finger food and sauce options include meatballs and marinara sauce; soft-baked pretzel bites and honey mustard; roasted cauliflower with curried mayonnaise; broccoli florets or carrot sticks with yogurt and dill; ham chunks with orange or pineapple marmalade.
Summer? We’re looking forward to Fall!
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We’d love to have your family as part of our school family.
ready, set, grow
bento lunch boxes are the best way to increase variety and healthy portions into your little guy’s lunch. these lunch boxes usually have compartments or interchangeable tupperware-like containers. our favorite is the stainless-steel line from planet box. while not the cheapest, it is the most eco-friendly and durable.
preschoolers [3–5 years]
W
elcome to the wonderful world of school lunch. If your kiddo is entering full-day daycare, preschool or prekindergarten, this may be his/her first experience eating lunch outside your home. Don't be surprised if your child craves comfort foods, wants to eat the same thing every day, or suddenly despises the hummus and cucumbers that were, thus far, her favorite snack. Your kiddo has been thrust into a new routine, surrounded by new people, and may experience some changes when it comes to her palate.
too cool for school You can help your child through this transition by involving her in the selection of her lunchbox and the foods and snacks that you send with her. While you
can’t stop other kids from commenting on her food and influencing her choices, you can help cultivate her curiosity about food and empower her to make her own positive food choices. If she wants Cheetos, go ahead and give her a small portion. But then have her pick out two other foods that are orange [creating an eye-appealing monochromatic lunch] or share a similar shape [sugar snap peas or strips of a nut-based granola bar] for a cool geometric look. Incorporating your kiddos into the process - from selection to prep to cooking - is a sure bet to increase their appreciation for the varieties of foods that exist from which they can choose.
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on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
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don’t forget to set kitchen rules for your cooking big kid. certain kitchen tasks need to be for adults only and extreme caution needs to be used for other tasks. and don’t forget to wash your hands before preparing food!
ready, set, grow
big kids [6–9 years]
I
f having your Kindergartner choose her own lunchbox and lunchtime favorite foods was the appetizer, then cooking together is the main course. Not only will your big kid enjoy food-related fun like recipe and ingredient research and culinary prep techniques, you’ll enjoy doing something together with a [hopefully] delicious final product. cooking for two Cooking classes for kids really exploded after shows like Top Chef Junior and Chopped Junior put culinary kiddos front and center. Now you can find kids-only or kid-friendly classes everywhere, including Square One Rental Kitchen and Events and Family Wellness, both
located in Fargo. Classes usually include the basics of following a particular recipe, but can often incorporate other important kitchen tips like food safety, storage, presentation, and, yes, even math. If you don’t have a kids’ cooking class near you, don’t fret. You can create your own at home. Or if having a “class” with mom or dad smells fishy to your young foodie, then try creating cook-at-home nights where your kid chooses the menu and helps with shopping, prep work, and actual cooking. When your kid feels empowered to choose the menu, she may be more willing to take taste risks.
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bonus tip - “if possible, choose restaurants where your child can see meals being prepared in the kitchen so you can discuss the ingredients and cooking methods,” writes karen ansel, a registered dietician nutritionist on eatright.org.
tweeners [10–12 years]
I
s there anything worse than going out to dinner with a pre-teen hell bent on disagreeing with or ignoring everything you say? What about going out to dinner with said tween and watching him push the meal around on the plate without taking a single bite. That’s $15 you’re never going to get back.
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around the world We’re not saying that going out to dinner with your sulky pre-teen is ever going to be entirely enjoyable, but you can make it more interesting by branching
out to different kinds of restaurants or different kinds of cuisine. Feeling like a hearty stew? Head to the local down-home kitchen. Craving a southeast Asian experience? Check out a Thai restaurant. Want something with exotic flavors or spices? Go for Indian or Nepalese cuisine. But when you get there, don’t mandate your tween order something that you know will stretch his palate. Let him take the lead. Simply exposing him to more global flavors or different methods of cooking will hopefully inspire him to try something new.
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on the minds of moms | august • september twenty seventeen
don’t forget the water! dehydration, even mild, can affect your teens’ fatigue levels, moods, and possibly their ability to learn. at least eight glasses a day or more, depending on your kiddo’s size, activity level, and gender [boys need more water than girls]. bottoms up!
ready, set, grow
teens [13–18years]
I
f, despite your best intentions and efforts, your teenager is still a picky eater, don’t lose hope. There are many reasons your teen may be a super-selective eater. Some, like Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, are medically substantiated, as are other sensory or mechanical conditions. Behavioral problems that have been left unchecked can also contribute to a nearly grown picky eater. These conditions and/or issues need more assistance than this article can give. But if you’ve ruled out medical problems and you’re still stuck with a mac ’n cheese fiend, then it’s time to try something new. This is important because you’re also trying to give your teen some life skills that she’ll need to take to college.
Sources: ·· http://www.parents.com/baby/feeding/center/starting-solids-raise-a-foodie/ ·· http://www.parents.com/baby/feeding/center/ your-age-by-age-guide-to-raising-a-foodie/ ·· http://www.nbc-2.com/story/12084628/how-to-raise-a-foodie ·· http://www.eatright.org/resource/food/nutrition/eating-as-a-family/ how-to-raise-a-future-foodie ·· http://www.foodandwine.com/fwx/food/5-surefire-ways-raise-foodie-child ·· http://www.npr.org/2011/08/08/139033757/ babys-palate-and-food-memories-shaped-before-birth ·· http://www.parents.com/recipes/baby-food/homemade-baby-food-recipes/ ·· http://www.bestproducts.com/parenting/kids/g145/cool-kids-bento-boxes/
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Here’s a few last-ditch things to try: • Put him or her in charge of a family meal at least once a week where he must select at least one protein, one green, and one starch • Talk about nutrition and how some foods can help her reach peak performance in doing things that she loves • Eat together as a family [it’s harder to avoid what’s been made for dinner if everyone is expected to sit at the family table]
appears regularly in publications nationwide and she also develops and writes strategic website content and inbound marketing materials for businesses. Patricia earned a master’s degree in journalism from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University and is also a proud alumna of Wheaton College in Massachusetts. When she’s not interviewing sources, she’s questioning the antics of her two young children, partner, and senior-citizen cat. Connect with Patricia on LinkedIn.
Do you have a young foodie in your house? We’d love to hear about him or her on our Facebook page! From scripted television programming and investigative journalism to corporate blogging and email marketing campaigns, Patricia Carlson of Patricia Carlson Freelance does it all. An award-winning writer and editor, Patricia has produced, written, and edited programs for ESPN Radio, History Channel, and Hallmark Channel. Her editorial work august • september twenty seventeen | on the minds of moms
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