December 2017

December 2017

FREE

*Northwest Health Physicians’ Specialty Hospital is owned, in part, by physicians.

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OUTSTANDING.” XAVIER LOVES THAT THE NEW SCHOOL GIVES HIM THE OPPORTUNITY TO TACKLE A TOUGH MATH EQUATION, PLAY PETER PAN IN THE SCHOOL PLAY AND SHOOT HOOPS WITH HIS FRIENDS. “The New School really expands your mindset and I want other kids to experience that.”

THE NEW SCHOOL IS A SPECIAL PLACE where a welcoming environment is matched with a challenging curriculum. Teachers here are focused on classroom learning that leads to real world discovery.

“My favorite subject is math because math is in everything.

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Our low student, teacher ratio and dynamic learning environments help students look at the world in a new way.

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Learn how The New School can help your child discover more.

Schedule a tour today by calling 479-521-7037 or visit thenewschool.org.

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Family KIMBERLY ENDERLE Editor-in-Chief editor@peekaboonwa.com | 479-957-0532

JONATHON ENDERLE Creative Director jon@peekaboonwa.com | 479-586-3890

Kim and Jonathon with Gwen, Holden, Grant and Ava Enderle.

PHOTO BY ASHLEY MURPHY IMAGES

CONTRIBUTING WRITER/EDITOR Frances Wilson

DISTRIBUTION/ CIRCULATION Joyce Whitaker Judy Evans Marcedalia Salinas

Jeremy Whitaker Michelle Dodson

Peekaboo Publications PO Box 1036 Bentonville, Arkansas 72712

BEN LACY Dad’s View

Columnist

VERONICA ZUCCA Story Design

Please send inquiries to: editor@peekaboonwa.com or call 479-957-0532 www.peekaboonwa.com Peekaboo may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Views expressed herein are those of the authors and advertisers, and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the magazine.

PEEKABOO Northwest Arkansas accepts writing contributions

6 December 2017

JENNIFER CRISTOFARO Events

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7

From the moment your baby is born through childhood and adolescence, your relationship with a skilled and caring pediatrician is crucial to the health and wellbeing of your child. That’s why it’s so important to find a pediatrician who makes you feel comfortable and confident every step of the way. At our Northwest Physicians practices, we focus on providing preventive care, such as routine checkups, sports and school physicals, immunizations, allergy care, and diagnosis and treatment of childhood illnesses.

WE’RE WITH YOU

EVERY INCH OF Northwest Pediatric Convenient Care

3057 Springdale Ave., Springdale, AR 72762 Mon.-Fri.: Noon-8 p.m., Sat.-Sun.: 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

479-751-2522

Susan Averitt, M.D. Staci Graber, APN

Best Start Pediatric Clinic

Megan Kumpe, APN

5501 Willow Creek Dr. Suite 104 Springdale, AR 72762 Mon.-Fri.: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

479-575-9359

Mark Lovell, M.D.

The Children’s Clinic at Har-Ber Meadows 6636 W. Sunset Ave. Suite A Springdale, AR 72762 Mon.-Thur.: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Fri.: 8 a.m.-Noon

479-306-4242

Laurie Anderson, M.D. Millicent Ford, M.D. April Durham, M.D.

The Children’s Clinic at Springdale 3057 Springdale Ave. Springdale, AR 72762 Mon.-Fri.: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

479-751-2522

Members of the Medical Staff of Northwest Health and Allied Health Staff of Northwest Health.

8 December 2017

Ask about our same-day or next-day appointments. To learn more or find a location near you, visit NW-Physicians.com.

THE WAY.

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9

Inside

DECEMBER 2017

On the Cover: Sydney Anne Johnson age 5.

Photos by: Lazer Lee Photography. lazerleephotography.com

18 24 26

18 18 46

44

48

30 36 44 46 48 52 54 58

Meet the Gardner Family by: Jami Gardner

Four Smart Steps to Avoid the Flu by: Northwest Health System Shop Local this Holiday Season by: Meagan Ruffing

A Heart the Size of a Mountain by: Elizabeth McCord

C

M

Y

25+ Must Do Activities and Events this Month Dad's View with Ben Lacy Positive Negatives

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

The Snowman: A Family Concert

JDRF Walk Super Team by: The Wieneke Family Keep Off Unwanted Pounds by: Northwest Health System Raising Grateful, Kind Kids by: Dwain Hebda Young Men's Service League by: Nick Woodhouse and Matthew Esarte

Cover Sponsored by: Northwest Health www.northwesthealth.com

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11

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39

A look ahead: If you have a story to share, or an idea for a story, email editor@peekaboonwa. com and be a part of the Peekaboo family!

From the Editor

HERE IS A LOOK AHEAD! _____________________________ JANUARY is our update issue. Do you have a favorite family or story you would like to see an update from? Let us know!

FEBRUARY is our 10th birthday... which means it's going to be the biggest and best birthday guide yet! Do you have a business that helps makes birthday parties great? Email editor@ peekaboonwa.com by January 10th.

W

hy is it so easy to give advice -- I mean, like, really, really good, life-altering advice -- to others, but, when the time comes to help ourselves, we just can't seem to get out of our own heads?

The past few weeks I have had a few friends go through some difficult times. Each time, I felt that I instantly had a plethora of advice and uplifting anecdotes to share. In that same vein, any time I have gone to those same friends or family with a struggle, they have always had the best advice that helped put everything in a new light. So, why can we never share that same wonderful advice with ourselves? We have advice readily available for others, but find ourselves unable to use that exact same advice when we're in need, too. I think it's because it's not just the words that make things better - it's knowing that someone cares enough about us to share their experiences. That sense of community and "been there, done that" confidence is the same reason Peekaboo has been the go to for moms and dads for almost 10 years! There's such comfort in knowing that the voice sharing the advice or story has been through what we have, and come out on the other side even better than before.

Also interesting is how our perspective changes the older we get. Our fears shift from those we had as children, of monsters under the bed, to high school fears of not having a date to prom, then to mommyhood fears that include a list I could easily fill an entire issue of Peekaboo with.

Last week, as I was dropping Grant off at preschool, his teacher leaned in and said, "I need to tell you something."

My brain instantly went to town with worries from the flu or lice making its rounds through the classroom, to that he had gotten in some sort of trouble, or that there was a learning issue that we needed to be concerned about.

My mind was spinning, and filled itself with all of these worries (and more) in the short few seconds before she was able to get her next sentence out: "Your zipper is down - just thought you would want to know."

Thank goodness! I could fix a zipper in two seconds, unlike the hours and days it would take to work on my predicted list of worries. As I walked out of the school, 14 December 2017

I was struck by a need to understand why I was actually excited that that had been the big thing she needed to tell me. If someone had said that same line to me in middle school, I would have run out of the room crying, with a 99.9% chance that I wouldn't be coming back to school for the next few days until it was safe to show my face again (as if anyone saw or cared), and I would most likely never wear pants with zippers for the next 6 months (until I forgot about the incident or ran out of clothing choices) This particular train of thought made me realize that some of the fears that currently haunt me should be placed in the same critical light that my past fears are now in.

And, since I have somehow turned this letter from the editor into a very random collection of thoughts, I will share one last one, because I am pretty sure that I will not have another opportunity to make it fit in another piece of writing -- like -- ever: toothpaste. How is there always one last drop of toothpaste every. single. time?

I have been on the same "last use" of my toothpaste tube for about two weeks now--yet, every day, there is just enough.

While I could easily go into much deeper thoughts about how my toothpaste situation is a great comparison to being a parent; like for instance, even though we feel like we are on empty, somehow there is always just enough to get us through a tough time. Or, I could point out how I wish everything in the world was the same way as the never ending tube, because I am pretty sure if the carton of ice cream in my freezer always had enough for one more bowl, even though it was technically empty, my life would move to another level of awesome!

But, today, I won't go any deeper than over-analyzing a magical tube of toothpaste.. I will say, instead, that from our family to yours -- happy December! The month of winter, Christmas, and all things magical! I hope you enjoy this holiday issue, where you will find all of the must-attend events going on in NWA this month, as well as a great selection of gift ideas from a few of our favorite local stores! And, like all the other issues before it, this one is full of great stories from families living right here in our wonderful community.

Until next time....

- Kim Enderle

Math & Language Therapy

Academic

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Reading • Spelling • Handwriting • Phonics Vocabulary • Fluency • Comprehension (classes available) Pre-Flight (Phonological Awareness) Multisensory Math • Counting and Numeration • Addition & Subtraction facts for instant recall • Multiplication & Division facts for instant recall • Fractions • Decimals & Percents • Integers & Algebra I & II Multisensory Grammar • Parts of Speech, Capitals, Punctuation …

Verbal to Written Expression (thoughts on paper) Writing Treatment for Hyperlexia (can read, but does not understand what is read) Study Skills • Time Management • Notetaking • Memory Technique • Test Taking Strategies …

Visit us at www.amltherpy.com or call 479-253-3256

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104 North 37th Street Suite B Rogers, AR 72756

Karen Sykes — Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) 29 years experience teaching

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16 December 2017

500 SE Plaza Avenue Bentonville, Arkansas

peekaboonwa.com

17

MEET

The Gardner Family

by: Jami Gardner

Story by: Jami Gardner / Photos by: Lazer Lee Photography

I

"The world around us just kept moving forward while we held this child we didn’t yet know in our hearts, forever feeling like a piece of our family was missing."

n the winter of 2011, my husband Tyler and I were in our late twenties and eighth year of marriage, ooh-ing and aah-ing over our 1-year-old and already planning for a second child. Bringing our son, Gage, into the world was the result of a smooth, complication-free pregnancy and delivery, yet neither one of us saw that as the path for our next child.

We had casually discussed adoption before, but never really thought we were equipped for it. Tyler’s older sister was adopted from Korea, and we had friends and family that had come into our lives through adoption-and our lives were so much richer because of each of them! The more we researched, read and prayed about this, it became so clear. Why not adopt? Why can't adoption be Plan A for growing your family? There are so many children all over the world waiting for a forever family, after all.

So, after deciding 'yes, we are going to adopt!' we set out, not knowing what we were doing, or how we were going to pay for it. We navigated countless conversations, statistics, articles, reviews, and information packets, and both of us kept coming back to Ethiopia. Our chosen agency informed us that we could probably be looking at a two-

18 December 2017

year process, which seemed so long at the time. Nevertheless, on February 25, 2011, we were officially entered into the Ethiopian adoption program.

About one week after that decision, the Ethiopian government announced that they would be reducing adoptions by 90% in an effort to give greater attention to cases and eliminate unethical practices in the process. At the time, we couldn’t believe it, but came to learn it was something that was so needed, and still not resolved to this day.

Our social workers let us know there was no way to know how this would affect our process going forward, but we could be looking at closer to three years to complete an adoption. We couldn’t believe we were already hitting a bump in the road, but we knew we weren’t already giving up. It took us the next six months to complete all our required social worker visits, trainings, paperwork, physicals, fingerprints, notarizations, authentications and on and on. Our dossier was completed, and arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in September of 2011.

It didn’t take long for us to see that a threeyear process was actually a very optimistic estimate. Because of this and changes to

our agency’s family requirements, we were now able to concurrently pursue another adoption or pregnancy while we waited. We wanted our growing son to have a sibling, and funding a second adoption was not an option, so, after approval from our social workers, we moved forward with planning for a pregnancy. In late 2012, after waiting for a baby sister from Ethiopia, Gage instead welcomed a little brother, Gunner, from his mommy.

Life went on for our now-family of four, and the passing weeks turned into months, and months into years. We watched other families come and leave the adoption program. The world around us just kept moving forward while we held this child we didn’t yet know in our hearts, forever feeling like a piece of our family was missing. I never knew you could long for someone you didn’t know so, so badly.

Each passing year, we’d redo all those required social worker visits, trainings, paperwork, physicals, fingerprints, notarizations, authentications, and on and on. We rode the roller coaster that was Ethiopian adoption's unknown fate for so many years. Countless times we were encouraged to leave the program and look into adopting elsewhere. I’m so thankful my husband, the rock of our family, never wavered. He always held strong, and said, "As long as there was an ounce of hope, we will not be ending this adoption pursuit."

Finally, in a moment forever etched in my mind, we received the phone call on May 20, 2016 (yes, 2016!) Our agency had matched us with the most precious 10-month-old baby girl. I fell to the floor sobbing and heard 0% of whatever else was said on that phone call. An email was waiting in my inbox with a picture of our daughter, and, suddenly, the last 5 years of paperwork, tears, anxiety, frustrations and doubt became distant memories.

Since there is always waiting and paperwork to be done in adoption, we were still looking at up to a year before we could bring our daughter home.

Court and immigration processes moved forward, and we felt like we could finally prepare for our daughter.

Summer and fall passed that year, and hope of our daughter being home for the holidays faded.

It looked like we wouldn’t even be traveling to meet her that year. But, on December 23, 2016, we received a call that we had been assigned a court date in Ethiopia… for the following week… and needed to fly out in 48 hours, on Christmas day.

What!?!

Turn the page …

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Tyler and I ran on pure excitement, anxiety, adrenaline, prayers and coffee those next two days.

As you can imagine, flights to Africa 48 hours out, on Christmas day, are super great and affordable (not at all). After miraculously getting everything scheduled and booked, we flew out of St. Louis on Christmas day and were en route to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to meet our daughter.

After over 30 hours of travel time, we arrived in Addis Ababa at our guesthouse at 2AM with a pick-up time only a few hours away.

Exhaustion won, and we managed to get a couple of hours of sleep before leaving for our agency’s transition home where our daughter was living. It was impossible to not be an emotional, weepy mess. The weight of it all was so overwhelming. It was such a tough balance to contain our reactions to what she would FAY E T T E V I L L E

|

BENTONVILLE

G R EAT GI F TS

for the Holidays!

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On December 29, 2016, we appeared before a judge at Ethiopia’s First Instance Court and Lota officially became our daughter. The orphanage paperwork notes that the name, Lota, in her region means “May God Raise You.” What a beautifully fitting name for this child. Extreme tragedy and heartache brought her to where she was, and we were so utterly humbled to have the opportunity to help raise her and be her forever family.

As you know by now, this process is not at all for the faint of heart, and possibly the hardest part was that, after 7 days in-country, we had to leave Lota and return home. Even though she was legally our daughter, the U.S. Immigration side of the process takes 4-6 weeks post-court to have paperwork prepared to enter our country and become a citizen.

We kept ourselves busy at home, preparing her room with sweet gifts we’d received over the years from friends, family and church family. Two very anxious big brothers thought they might finally have that baby sister they had heard about their whole lives.

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be feeling. Having your loving nannies hand you over to complete strangers would be so scary. At 17 months old, she extended so much grace to us and let us love on her, hold her, feed and play with her that whole beautiful afternoon. We spent the next several days visiting her and the other children at the home and taking in a few of the sights in the city.

The country was in an official state of emergency at the time due to unrest in many regions, so we were restricted from traveling outside of the capital and or too far from the US Embassy.

In late January, we received word we had completed all the steps. Lota’s passport was ready, and we had been assigned an Embassy date for the following week, so, with another 48-hour notice, we were on our way back to Ethiopia.

After taking custody in a very emotional departure, the children and nannies hugged and kissed all

over Lota before we slowly pulled away. I can’t even begin to imagine what was going through her little 18-month-old mind. She was sick and scared, and we looked, smelled and sounded different than anything she was used to. But, once again, she showed us so much grace and mercy.

We spent a few short days in Ethiopia before it was time to make the long trip back. Lota had never been strapped in a car seat, had ridden in a vehicle only a handful of times, and had little to no recollection of anything other than the inside walls of the three different facilities she had lived in during her first months of life, so you can only imagine what 30 hours of international travel was like. It will likely be years before any of us will be able to step back on a plane together.

Finally, on January 28, 2017, almost 6 years from the day our journey started, we came down the escalator at XNA with our daughter in our arms.

We could see our sons, family and friends waiting below, signs waving and faces full of tears and laughter. I kept thinking about a question the judge asked us in Ethiopia during court, “Do you have support in your village for this adoption?” Oh my, yes, we do. These people, and so many others, carried us through all those years. They prayed the

prayers when we couldn’t and reminded us of the faith and hope we were holding on to.

Lota has been home 9 months now, and it’s hard to remember life without her. Her brothers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends cannot get enough of her. She is growing and thriving. She sings songs, plays with dolls, hugs friends, and throws 2-year-old tantrums.

I simultaneously thank God for the redemption of adoption while crying out in frustration that there is a need for it. I wish circumstances like illness, death and addiction didn’t have to take away the chance for mothers and fathers to raise their children. If I had been told in 2011 it would be 6 years before we would welcome another child into our home, that would have been the end of it. My young enthusiasm and rose-tinted glasses wouldn’t have had time for that. Those glasses were slowly stripped away over the years, and we better saw the pain, heartache, adversity and incredible need surrounding foster care and adoption. Wading into those waters looks so much scarier to me now, and so much more worth it. Every child in this world deserves the chance to have a family. The unknown is scary, but there is nothing wrong with going in scared--just don’t let it keep you from going.

peekaboonwa.com

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22 December 2017

High quality child care looks like

SCIENCE.

High quality child care looks like

SCIENCE.

High quality child care looks like

SCIENCE.

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your child mix it up.

Ingredients

Uncooked Playdough*

1

2

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1

3-5

cup salt

cups flour

tablespoon vegetable oil

cup cold water

drops food coloring

Directions

Step 1: In bowl, mix salt and flour.

Step 2: Add food coloring to water to make a bright color.

Step 3: Add water to dry ingredients.

Step 4: Mix in oil and knead until smooth. Sprinkle on more flour if it is too sticky.

Step 5: Remove from bowl and let the fun begin!

Step 6: Store covered or in a ziplock bag in the refrigerator.

Ingredients

Uncooked Playdough*

1

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cups flour

tablespoon vegetable oil

cup cold water

drops food coloring

*Recipe source: BestRecipes.com

Makes about a softball-sized dough ball.

cup salt

Directions

Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education

Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education

www.ARBetterBeginnings.com 1-800-445-3316

www.ARBetterBeginnings.com 1-800-445-3316

Step 1: In bowl, mix salt and flour.

Click here to visit our Resource Library. You’ll find activities and tips to help you prepare your child for life.

Step 2: Add food coloring to water to make a bright color. www.ARBetterBeginnings.com • 1-800-445-3316Step 3: Add water to dry ingredients.

Step 4: Mix in oil and knead until smooth. Sprinkle on more flour if it is too sticky.

Step 5: Remove from bowl and let the fun begin!

Step 6: Store covered or in a ziplock bag in the refrigerator.

Learn more at bit.ly/peeksci Uncooked Playdough*

*Recipe source: BestRecipes.com

Makes about a softball-sized dough ball.

Click here to visit our Resource Library. You’ll find activities and tips to help you prepare your child for life.

www.ARBetterBeginnings.com • 1-800-445-3316

Ingredients

Learn more at

1

2

1

cup salt

cups flour

tablespoon vegetable oil

1

3-5

cup cold water

drops food coloring

bit.ly/peeksci peekaboonwa.com 23 Directions

Step 1: In bowl, mix salt and flour.

Step 2: Add food coloring to water to make a bright color.

Step 3: Add water to dry ingredients.

Step 4: Mix in oil and knead until smooth. Sprinkle on more flour if it is too sticky.

Step 5: Remove from bowl and let the fun begin!

Step 6: Store covered or in a ziplock bag in the refrigerator.

Makes about a softball-sized

*Recipe source: BestRecipes.com

Four Smart Steps to Avoid the Flu

T

his flu season is striking hard and wide across the country, creating anxiety for individuals who are vulnerable to serious complications. As with any illness, it’s important to learn and follow steps that can protect you and your loved ones from contracting the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists four important steps to reduce your risk of infection:

Wash your hands consistently throughout the day. Hand washing is still one of the most effective and easiest ways to prevent infection.

Keep your hands away from your face.

Microscopic germs find their way into our bodies most often through handto-eye, nose or mouth contact. Door knob and handles, office coffee pots and grocery cart handles can all carry the virus.

Stay away from sick people. Individuals can still be contagious for 24 hours after a fever and other symptoms cease.

Get vaccinated. Even when a vaccine is not a perfect match for a flu strain, it still benefits the recipient by decreasing the intensity and duration of the illness and preventing complications.

“Besides getting a flu shot, the best way to prevent the flu – or other illnesses – is the common sense things we learned as children,” says Dr. Gregory Spears, board-certified family medicine physician at Northwest Medical Plaza at Sugar Creek. “Wash your hands regularly, keep your hands away from your face and avoid people who are sick.”

If you do become ill and suspect the flu virus, see your doctor or visit an urgent care center; you may receive a prescription for an antiviral medication which can lesson flu symptoms and help you recover faster. This is a critically important step for those who are at higher risk for flu complications, such as young children, adults age 65-plus, and those with lung disease and compromised immune systems.

When you’re ill, you can help stop the spread of viruses by staying home, except for medical care visits, until you have been fever- and symptomfree for 24 hours. Protect others from your sneezes and coughs by turning away from people and bringing your sleeved arm up to sneeze or cough into your elbow.

“This year’s flu season seems to be more severe than recent ones,” says Dr. Spears. “People who are at higher risk for flu-related complications should see their doctor immediately if they suspect they have the flu to ensure they receive appropriate care and are monitored for complications.”

Unlike a cold, the flu typically comes on suddenly.

It is a contagious respiratory virus adults may unknowingly spread before experiencing symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu symptoms include fever or feeling feverish/chills (although not everyone with flu will have a fever); cough; sore throat; runny or stuffy nose; muscle or body aches; headaches; fatigue; and vomiting and diarrhea, which are more common in children.

Dr. Gregory Spears is accepting new patients.

Schedule an appointment online at NWPhysicians.com or by calling 479-254-8563.

peekaboonwa.com

25

– this — ­

Holiday Season

By Meagan Ruffing Northwest Arkansas has some of the cutest, trendiest and hippest stores in the state, and that means more good things for all of us locals.

Shopping local not only helps support small town businesses, but it increases the odds that we actually see people face-to-face when buying something. Think about it. How many times do we click “buy” online and we’re off to the next thing? My guess is…a lot. Instead of returning something because it’s the wrong size, why not buy the right size the first time? Shopping local helps all of us, and what’s not to love about that?

Kids’ Stuff No matter who you have in your life, this local shopping guide has you covered. Let’s start with the kids. Rollie Pollie is a fun and unique store nestled along the Bentonville square. Owners (and sisters) Selina Aguirre and Nubia Hutchinson find the neatest toys--those that just don’t seem to find their way into other stores.

They line their shelves with things like kitty hair clips, ride-on toys, and several mom-invented items like Loria Oliver’s The Tot Tote.

The Tot Tote is a 3-in-1 backseat organizer that turns into a backpack.

A mom with an idea is a powerful thing--it’s no wonder Loria was just featured on the Harry Connick Jr. show with her invention!

Dilly Dally’s Toy Store in Rogers sells a cordless karaoke mic that connects via Bluetooth and allows you to sing along to your own music, or by

to A COLUMN FOR MOMS, BY MOMS, AND FOR THE LOVE OF MOMS 26 December 2017

using a karaoke app. Personally, I think this gadget is good for both kids and adults. Who doesn’t love a good ol' fashioned karaoke party?

They also sell Chunkies, which are tempura paint sticks that color like crayons. There’s absolutely no mess, and you can feel good about saying yes to your kids the next time they ask you if they can paint. We always have a box of these on hand in our house to keep little hands busy and out of trouble.

Oh Baby Boutique on Walton Boulevard has some of the cutest outfits for your little one. This would be a great place to pick up a new diaper bag, baby gear, or some unique baby gifts. Another fun place to get gifts for women and kids is at Belle Boutique. They carry trendy accessories, like boots and ball caps, to more local wear, like “game day” attire you can get for the Razorback fan in your family.

One of my personal favorites is the gift shop at the Amazeum. If you’re a member, you get an additional 10% off your entire purchase in the store, and I can’t seem to leave that place without buying even the littlest thing. Their store is packed full with kid-friendly inventory and brain-building toys that give kids the opportunity to think outside the box. My daughter’s favorite part of the store is their candy selection: “They have really good candy and chocolate," she says, “it’s so delicious.”

Handmade Goods Milk & Sugar Bath Bakery specializes in small batch artisan soap and is made by owner Leigh Waycaster. “I’ve always been a lover of bath and body products,” says Leigh, “so I wanted to make something beautiful and delicious looking.” Leigh has tons of different scents, but she makes a special one right around the holidays called ‘Home for Christmas,’ which includes a blend of mulled cider, cinnamon and orange peel.

For the Razorback fan, Leigh makes a Razor’bacon soap shaped like a Razorback that smells like bacon. She uses hickory smoked bacon with maple sugar, melted butter and vanilla extract to make this one-of-a-kind bath product. Leigh also makes bath bombs, whipped cream body lotions, and pumpkin spice latte soaps with straws sticking out of them to resemble the real ones we all love. You can find her goods online or at Blush Beauty Bar in Fayetteville.

For the professional, Desselle Leather and Design is a husband and wife team who run a leather and embroidery shop right out of their home. Gerrod and Tanya Desselle of Bentonville make everything from cigar holders to briefcases. They started the

business in 2010 after having a hard time finding an iPad case. “We decided to start making them,” says Tanya. They also monogram everything you can think of--but a popular item for them is cups.

Everybody likes those stainless steel cups they can tote from one place to another, and Tanya can personalize yours with any design, logo, and/or initials you want.

Turn the page …

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For the Foodies and Cooks

For the Adventurous Type

For the cook in your family, quite a few suggestions rolled in about the best place to buy all things cooking. Euna Mae’s in Springdale is owned by Amy Hannon, who is also the host of "Cooking Today." Her shop features kitchen gadgets and home goods. If you love cooking yummy things, you’ll love eating them, too. Fork & Crust Pie Company in Rogers garners all the raves with their pie milk shakes. “Take any piece of pie and put it in a shake,” says local Sarah Beahm. “You really can’t go wrong with anything.

Raspberry chiffon is my favorite, along with chocolate cream. Their fudge bars are delicious, and they also have whiskey bacon pecan pie.” Sounds like a great place to pick up a gift card for that person in your family who has a sweet tooth, or, better yet, take a friend or a loved one out and try Fork & Crust Pie Company together. Their second location will be located on the Bentonville Square, and will be open just in time for the holidays.

Tanya just started another business called SUP NWA, which stands for Stand Up Paddleboarding.

It’s the newest fitness craze, and one that’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Getting your friend (or yourself!) a gift card to try out a 30-minute session would be the perfect way to beat the wintertime blues by falling (or not falling!) into the water.

Honeycomb Kitchen Shop in Rogers is a great place to find a cookbook, as well as sign up for a cooking class.

This would be a great gift to give your spouse, or even your parents, if they’re looking for something new to try together. If you want to buy something written by a local, sold by locals, check out chef Erin Rowe’s new cookbook, “An Ozark Culinary History: Northwest Arkansas Traditions from Corn Dodgers to Squirrel Meatloaf.”

What kind of holiday article would this be without including the store with local in its name? Hello Local puts together gift boxes for you, as well as carrying other locally made items. They curate boxes with handmade goods like chocolate bars from Kyya Chocolate out of Springdale.

28 December 2017

For the Person Who Loves Clothing For the person who loves clothes and all things trendy, Elysian Boutique in Bentonville carries women’s clothing and accessories. “They also have their own label of tees and tanks called ‘Written,’ which has a mixture of Christian tees and tees with fun sayings,” says local shopper Caitlin Mahoney.

“The staff is so genuine, and takes an interest in finding what’s best for your body.”

Another clothing store in town, The Perfect Choice, is a favorite for Jessica Deaton, who says they are always bringing in new things. “At Christmas they have unique ornaments,” she says. “And they offer free gift wrap.” You can find things like boots, hobo bags, and baby gifts in this boutiquestyle store.

For the Sports Lovers Bleachers down on the Bentonville Square is a great place to find tons of sports stuff. They carry everything from clothing, to hats and memorabilia.

Of course, they carry Arkansas sports, but I love the fact that they carry other sports teams as well (Go Red Sox!)

Grab this list, a warm cup of coffee (from local coffee shops like Onyx or Kennedy Coffee) and hit the town for all of your holiday shopping this year.

The holidays are Meagan Ruffing’s favorite time of the year. To add to this year’s local buying list and share your favorite spot to shop, leave her a post on her Facebook page at writermeaganruffing.

Shopping Guide (in alphabetical order) AMAZEUM 479-696-9280 www.amazeum.org

HONEYCOMB KITCHEN SHOP 479-340-1022 www.honeycombkitchenshop.com

BELLE BOUTIQUE 479-876-8085 www.shopbelleboutique.com

KENNEDY COFFEE ROASTING COMPANY 479-464-9015 www.kennedycoffee.com

BLEACHERS 479-250-0296

KYYA CHOCOLATE 844-281-4470 www.kyyachocolate.com

DESSELLE LEATHER AND DESIGN 479-426-2238 www.desselleleather.com DILLY DALLY’S TOY STORE 479-273-5557 www.dillydallys.com ELYSIAN BOUTIQUE 479-464-9261 www.shopelysian.com EUNA MAE’S 479-419-9690 www.shopeunamaes.com

MILK & SUGAR BATH BAKERY info@milksugarbathbakery.com, www.milksugarbathbakery.com OH BABY BOUTIQUE 479-254-2911 www.ohbabynwa.com ONYX COFFEE LAB 479-715-6492 www.onyxcoffeelab.com ROLLIE POLLIE 479-866-9057

FORK AND CRUST PIE COMPANY 479-268-6634 www.forkandcrust.com

SUP NWA 479-426-3793 www.supnwa.com

HELLO LOCAL www.shophellolocal.com

THE PERFECT CHOICE 479-273-2073

MOTHER’S RINGS AT DAVID ADAMS FINE JEWELRY www.davidadams.com A must-have for any mother or grandmother. This unique piece of jewelry is engraved by hand with your child’s name to make it look as though your child wrote their name themselves.

One ring per child, and designed to be stackable.

100 W Center St # 101 | Fayetteville | (479) 444-7778

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Heart Mountains A

-that can move-

My name is Elizabeth McCord,,

and I am a 32-year-old adult with congenital heart disease. I was born with a bicuspid aortic valve with aortic stenosis. The aortic valve is the “door” between the heart and the aorta artery, and the aorta artery is the main artery in the body. Where most people have an aortic heart valve with 3 cusps, mine only had two. This leads to narrowing (stenosis) and/or leakage (regurgitation/insufficiency) of the valve and can cause heart failure, arrhythmias and death. A bicuspid aortic valve is often associated with aortic aneurysms and coarctation of the aorta artery.

For as long as I can remember, I have been a heart patient. I was monitored closely by pediatric cardiologists, with routine appointments and tests as an infant and child. My first procedure came at the age of 7 with a balloon valvuloplasty. A balloon valvuloplasty is a procedure where a balloon is inflated inside the valve in order to widen the narrowing. I had another valvuloplasty at age 9, and I had my first open heart surgery to have my aortic valve replaced the spring before I turned 10.

There were minor complications during my first surgery, ultimately leading to another open-heart surgery at the age of 14. I recovered well, and my life was pretty uneventful from then until 2015.

In September of 2015, at the age of 30, I developed endocarditis. This is an infection of the heart tissue valve, and is a known complication of replaced heart valves. Somehow, I had gotten an infection in my blood stream that attacked my replaced aortic valve and caused an abscess to form. The valve was destroyed, and I was deathly ill. I was flown by helicopter from Mercy Hospital in Rogers to Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, where they had cardiologist and cardiothoracic surgeons who specialized in adults with congenital heart disease.

A few days later, I underwent major open-heart 30 December 2017

surgery to replace the aortic valve and reconstruct a lot of my heart tissue. It was my third openheart valve replacement surgery, this time with a mechanical valve. It was a long recovery process that included IV antibiotics, medications, cardiac rehab, multiple appointments, and a lot of rest. I had to miss 10 weeks of work while I recovered. I did eventually recover, though, and I currently am healthier than I have ever been.

While the above sounds scary, I really do feel like I have led a normal life. I was very involved in sports growing up. I played basketball, volleyball, softball and soccer. I was the captain of our high school soccer team. I was in concert and marching band and worked summers as a lifeguard at the local pool. I ran track and cross-country. I went to church camp in the summer and took yearly vacations with my family. I had yearly cardiology appointments and more echocardiograms (heart ultrasounds) than I can count, but I didn’t have to take any long-term medications. I had no diet restrictions. My only limitation was that I couldn’t do pushups, which didn’t hurt my feelings any.

Because of my heart infection and mechanical valve replacement, I will be on a blood thinner,

baby aspirin, and antibiotics for life. I do have residual issues in my left leg as a result of a septic embolism from the abscess in my heart. This means that before my surgery to have the abscess removed, a part of it broke off and went down my leg. While the infection and clot has cleared, I still have some impaired flow to my foot that causes numbness, and sometimes pain, but only after running 2 or 3 miles. I am extremely fortunate that the septic embolic went down to my leg instead of up to my brain! About a year after my surgery, I passed out while driving. I had to have an implantable heart monitor placed to monitor my heart rhythm. I still get more echocardiograms than I can count, see my infection disease doctor yearly, and see my local cardiologist regularly.

Also, I now see a cardiologist who specializes in adults with congenital heart disease yearly.

I have always had great experiences, both as a child and an adult, with congenital heart disease.

That might sound weird, but I always enjoyed the doctors, nurses and surgeons that I got to meet.

My first heart surgeon, Dr. Ronald Elkins, was wonderful, and always very kind to me. When I was a sophomore in college, he called me because he was planning to retire and wanted to check on me. I remember one nurse getting us tickets to go see "Casper" at the movie theatre. The Arkansas Children’s Hospital always had a fun, child-friendly environment with a lot of toys. I always ended up with new gifts and toys, much to the annoyance of my brother and sister. These experiences fostered a huge interest in health care, and I knew pretty early on that I would work in the health care field.

In 2008, I graduated from college with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I worked for 4 years as an RN before I finished my Master of Nursing and became a nurse practitioner. Interestingly enough, I have found my niche in healthcare as a nurse practitioner in cardiology. I love that I can empathize with my patients. I even did cardiac rehab with some of them after my illness and surgery two years ago!

As an adult, I have run multiple half marathons, duathlons and triathlons. Most of these were done after my surgery in 2015. Staying active and healthy is very important to me, and I really strive to be a good example of health to my patients.

Having congenital heart disease hasn’t always been a walk in the park, however, and comes with its fair share of burdens. There are always medical bills.

And the scars... goodness gracious, the scars. There will be doctors, appointments and medications for the rest of my life. I will never go skiing because I’m on a blood thinner. Almost dying at age 30 is a traumatic experience that I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. I can’t run more than 6 miles without having to stop and walk because my foot is numb, painful, or cramping. I won’t ever get pregnant or give birth to my own babies because pregnancy is very high risk with mechanical heart valves and blood thinners. I caused my parents and family Turn the page …

a lot of undue stress. I passed out while driving on the interstate with my 4-year-old niece in the backseat. I have a heart monitor implanted in my breast tissue. I am constantly aware of my mechanical valve’s click.

Seems like a lot, right? Let’s switch gears and talk about the mountain (literally, mountain!) of good that I have experienced as a result of having congenital heart disease. The scars are a constant reminder of how good my God has been to me. Let’s face it, they’re also good an excellent conversation piece. The mechanical valve click is now a part of my life that I barely even notice.

Maybe I didn’t get to go skiing, but I did get to go sledding and snow shoeing, and I probably saved a ton of money by not going skiing. I can’t run more than 5 or 6 miles before I have to stop and walk because my foot hurts, but I know plenty of people who can’t even run 1 mile. Every time I run, I am reminded of how extremely blessed I am to be able to do so. The medical bills are a nuisance, but they remind me what a blessing health insurance is. Even the appointments once a year in St. Louis give me the opportunity to take time off work and travel a little!

The day I passed out while driving with my niece in the back seat was truly a horrible day for me.

Thankfully, neither one of us was injured (nor was anybody else). My little niece loved seeing the fire trucks and sitting in the ambulance. She reminds me regularly that I am not supposed to fall asleep while driving! I am high risk for pregnancy due to my heart history and blood thinners, but I know that God will open doors for me to foster and/or adopt children in the future. I did almost die two years ago, but now I am healthy and so very thankful that God let me live. I have been a source of stress to my family and friends, but the amount of support, love, and prayers that I received from my family, friends and coworkers is truly amazing. My family truly is wonderful and

full of love. All seven of them were there in St. Louis with me the whole week I was hospitalized. I like to think that my illness brought us even closer together. Not a day went by during my recovery that I didn’t receive a card, a visit, gifts, flowers, food, or prayers. Friends and coworkers took care of my dogs while I was in the hospital. Coworkers took them for walks when I was too weak to do so.

My friends cleaned and prepared my house for my homecoming with food, magazines, mums, and movies.

Everybody in life faces trials, whether they are mental, emotional, or physical. My burden of congenital heart disease has been tough, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. If I had been born with a normal heart, I am positive that I would not have grown up to be a cardiac nurse practitioner.

My love for healthcare and nursing started with my experiences as a patient as a child. Without those experiences, I would not have fostered such an interest in how the body works. I surely love being a nurse practitioner, and I love that my profession provides me with opportunities to help and educate other people. My profession has led me to a wonderful career at Mercy, which has blessed me beyond measure. I have met so many wonderful people at Mercy, many of whom have become part of my most meaningful friendships.

If I had been born with a normal heart, then I would not have learned how to be tough, and how to take the good with the bad. If I had been born with a normal heart, then I wouldn’t appreciate my friends, family and coworkers as much as I do now.

While having congenital heart disease does largely impact my life, it does not define it. My trials have taught me to appreciate and love life, and count my blessings daily. I understand the importance of having faith and a relationship with God, and there’s no doubt in my mind that God has me in His hands. He puts trials in all of our lives in order to guide us... we just have to be open to His guidance.

“ I have always had great experiences, both as a child and an adult, with congenital heart disease.

That might sound weird, but I always enjoyed the doctors, nurses and surgeons that I got to meet.“ 32 December 2017

Our mission is to serve the children and families we care for with a personal approach in a way that expresses the fruits of the spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Julie Tate, MD FAAP and Jeffrey Savage, MD FAAP

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT

Accepting all major insurances and proudly accepting Tricare

Living Tree Pediatrics, PLLC is a pediatric practice focusing on the care of newborns to adulthood.

Dr Tate and Dr Savage are also on staff at Northwest Medical Center-Bentonville.

1502 SE 28th Street, Suite 2 | Bentonville, AR | 479-282-2966

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JOIN US FOR A SPECI A L A FTER NOON AT THE THE ATER .

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when purchasing at waltonartscenter.org

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*Limited quantity available. Cannot be combined with other offers.

34 December 2017

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5 2 25+ "must do's" in

december

Lights Of The Ozarks Through December 31 5P -1 AM nightly Downtown Fayetteville Square www.experiencefayetteville.com Enjoy the amazing winter wonderland of lights on the downtown square with the Lighting Night parade. The lights illuminate the square each evening from 5PM to 1AM. Nightly carriages and pony rides, fresh hot chocolate and festive holiday music make the Lights of the Ozarks an event that cannot be missed. The romantic and breathtaking display of a half-million twinkling lights is cherished by the locals and visitors alike that stroll or drive through the Lights of the Ozarks each year. Each year Fayetteville Parks and Recreation workers spend over 3,300 hours decorating the downtown square with over 400,000 lights.

Children's Christmas Train December 2 Emma Street Train Depot childrenssafetycenter.org

Breakfast with Santa December 2 Arts Center of the Ozarks www.acozarks.org

The 40-minute ride to Johnson and back will include singing Christmas carols, stories, and even a visit from Santa himself! After returning to the train depot, families can enjoy holiday games and entertainment – ride ponies dressed as reindeer, operate a model train, participate in the cake walk, write a letter to Santa, or just enjoy the characters and live music in Santa’s Village. Children and families are also encouraged to dress in holiday attire.

Join Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Arts Center of the Ozarks on December 2nd. Kids of all ages are invited to eat a scrumptious breakfast, make holiday crafts, and get their picture taken with Santa. Tickets are $15 for children participating in all activities, and $10 for adults.

Children two years of age and under do not require a ticket, but will have to sit on your lap. $10 for ages 3-12, and $20 for adults. This event will sell out.

The Children’s Christmas Train is a fundraiser for the Children’s Safety Center of Washington County, which provides services for abused children.

36 December 2017

This Arts Center of the Ozarks tradition will have all of your favorite activities, along with new ones! Santa’s workshop makes its way to Downtown Springdale as the center is transformed into a winter wonderland. Santa’s helpers will be serving breakfast and drinks. Learn the secrets of making Santa’s favorite Christmas Eve treat by decorating fresh baked cookies with Mrs. Claus.

The holiday spirit will be spread from old to young, as guests work together to create Christmas themed crafts.

Winter Dreams Tour of Homes December 3 11:00AM – 5:00PM www.juniorleaguenwa.org/ winterdreams

Another Christmas Carol: Clara's Journey

Please join us for the 19th Annual Winter Dreams Tour of Homes, as we host 10 beautifully decorated homes throughout Benton and Washington counties for you to admire. This event has become a festive, time-honored tradition to kick off the holiday season.

An original, charming retelling of the classic tales of A Christmas Carol and the Nutcracker, featuring classical ballet, contemporary and hip-hop.

Join us for the debut production of Taglioni Academy of Arts, in cooperation with talented local artists and choreographers.

Taglioni Academy of Performing Arts

December 9 taglioniacademy.com

Library Story Times: Fayetteville Public Library: faylib.org Rogers Public Library: rogerspubliclibrary.org

Little Sprouts Holiday Hoopla December 13 9:30 and 10:15 AM Botanical Garden of the Ozarks bgozarks.org/learn/educationclasses/little-sprouts/ Join us during our Little Sprouts off-season with Holiday Hoopla! Fun stories and environmental educational activities for preschoolers and their parents.

Bentonville Public Library: bentonvillelibrary.org Springdale Public Library: springdalelibrary.org Siloam Springs Library: siloamsprings.com

Winter Wonderland Princess Ball December 16 from 4 PM - 6 PM JQ Hammons Convention Center Over 10 princesses and characters will be attending and hosting. There will be fun activities, such as crafts, mini manicures, face painting, light makeup application, and sweet treats!

Brock Entertainment will be there, running the dance floor, encouraging all the children and princesses to bust a move! General admission is $50.00 per ticket and includes one free adult admission. Additional adult admission can be purchased for $7.50, and siblings under the age of one year are free.

A Morning with Santa Bentonville Parks and Recreation December 9 10-11:45 AM and 12:15-2 PM 1101 SW Citizens Cir, Bentonville

A Christmas Story Arkansas Public Theatre December 8 – December 17 116 S 2nd St, Rogers www.arkansaspublictheatre.org

Bentonville Parks & Recreation just got the news that Santa Claus is coming to the Bentonville Community Center! We will have a photographer on-site to take free photos of each child with Santa.

Be sure to join us for choir music, refreshments, and fun! Event is free to the public.

All the elements from the beloved motion picture are here, including the family's temperamental exploding furnace; Scut Farkas, the school bully; the boys' experiment with a wet tongue on a cold lamppost; the Little Orphan Annie decoder pin; and more.

Cabaret seats are $25/per person or $45/ table (includes 2 individual seats) and balcony seats are $18/per person.

Winter Break Wonders Crystal Bridges Starting December 21st 1-4 PM

It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play November 29 to December 31 TheatreSquared 505 W Spring St, Fayetteville

facebook.com/ PrincessPartyPalaceNWA

Christmas Display Bentonville Heart Lites 5:30 PM - 10:30 PM 3505 NW Edgewood Ave Bentonville We love putting on a Christmas show to help bring the focus of Christ in Christmas to families through our lighting display. We have run our show for four years and love doing it!

38 December 2017

Join us at the museum over your school break! We’re planning special family-friendly activities each afternoon, including artmaking, music, puppets, dance, and more.

This inventive, live twist on Frank Capra’s classic film brings the story of redemption and holiday magic to life on stage before your eyes and ears—as a radio broadcast, with live sound effects and high-energy performances.

Perfect for groups or as a holiday activity for the whole family— book early, as prime seats will go quickly at theatre2.org

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS

• School Assemblies & Workshops • Special Events & Camps • Corporate/Non-Profit Presentations • Awesome Party Concept

EDUCATIONAL ENTERTAINMENT FOR ALL AGES! www.super-sci.com • 479-444-0303

Christmas Celebration The Mill with FBC Prairie Grove December 23rd 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM Washington County Milling Company Event Center 501 S Mock Prairie Grove Come celebrate our Savior with us on Christmas Eve. There will be lots of activities for the whole family, including: live nativity, free camel rides for kids, The Story of the Manger drama, live Christmas music, refreshments, build-your-own crafts and toys, and a family photo booth.

Ozark Figure Skating Club Christmas Show: Santa's Big Trip December 9th 1 PM and 5 PM Jones Center After each show, the audience is invited to skate with Santa and the cast for about an hour. Skating with Santa and the cast and skate rentals are free with admission to the show. Tickets will be on sale in the ice arena at The Jones Center. Tickets for bleacher seating are $8 for adults and $5 for children ages 8 and under.

VIP tickets are $12 each.

Bentonville Christmas Parade December 9 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM Bentonville Square The annual Christmas Parade is coming! You can enter a float or just enjoy the show - either way, this is a wonderful tradition to share with family and friends! The parade will start at the fire station, make its way up Main Street and end at the Square.

The Snowman: A Family Concert presented by Walton Arts Center and Symphony of Northwest Arkansas Baum Walker Hall December 17 - 2:00 PM Returning by popular demand an NWA holiday tradition perfect for all ages! Join us for the 3rd annual screening of the 1982 Academy Award®-nominated film The Snowman. Once more, SoNA musicians will bring to life the film’s extraordinary score along with other holiday favorites in an afternoon that is sure to enchant your whole family.

Christmas Open House The Peel Mansion Museum & Heritage Gardens December 16 at 10 AM - 3 PM 400 S Walton Blvd, Bentonville Come visit the Peel mansion all dressed up for Christmas!

This years theme is the Twelve Days of Christmas, so you can expect a different "Twelve Day" theme in each of the rooms as you tour the house. Music, hot cocoa, cookies and a visit from Santa included. This is a free and family-friendly event.

Winter Cooking Camp!

Young Chefs Academy of Rogers 5208 W Village Pkwy, Rogers rogersar.youngchefsacademy.com December 21 – December 22 10 AM-1 PM Join us on this special two-day holiday camp! Learn how to make delicious season bright recipes! $99. Ages 5+ December 27 – December 29 10am-1pm Special three-day holiday camp!

Learn how to make delicious season bright recipes! $147. Ages 5+

100 West Center, Ste 101 Fayetteville 479-444-7778

18th Annual Holiday Open House Rogers Historical Museum rogershistoricalmuseum.org December 2 12:30-4 PM Design a Victorian scrap art ornament, make a pom pom ornament, have refreshments, visit with Santa and go on tours of "A Rogers Christmas."

Stewart Family Christmas Lights 4423 Wyman Rd, Fayetteville Nightly: 5:30-9:30 PM Our collection of lights started in 2003 with 3000 lights and two inflatables. Over the years, it has grown to over 375,000 lights and over 250 inflatables. We have a walkthrough pathway so you can enjoy the lights and the inflatables. Parking is available on the corner in the field.

Your children can drop off their letter to Santa through December 20th. We look forward to seeing everyone and having a Merry Christmas. We have a train for your family to ride, and it's $1.00 per person.

42 December 2017

Paint and Play Holiday Fun Imagine Studios December 6 at 11 AM til noon 5212 W Village Pkwy, Rogers

Winter Camps The Little Gym of Rogers 2603 W. Pleasant Grove Rd. Rogers

Join us for some holiday paint and play fun! This class is for little artists (walking to 5) and their grownups. We'll make a keepsake project and play at art stations. . $12 per project.

Santa handprint ornaments (clay)

Winter camps at The Little Gym are the place to be over the winter break! Each 3-hour camp will incorporate a super fun theme with games and adventures for your kiddo. Camps will be held Dec 21st - Jan 3rd for children 3-10 years old and bathroom independent. It's the perfect break for kids - and parents during the holidays!

Gingerbread House Workshop Young Chefs Academy December 7 at 4:30 PM December 14th at 4:30 PM 5208 W Village Pkwy, Rogers rogersar.youngchefsacademy.com

Wonderland Christmas Tree Farm wonderlandtreefarm.com

Join us in this super FUN workshop!

Make your own gingerbread house the Young Chefs Academy way! $45 for a 2-hour workshop Ages 5 and up

A real working tree farm environment with a hayride out to the fields, great atmosphere, and the service you want to begin your holiday decorating and season.

Don’t forget to have the kids bring their letters to Santa, when you visit the farm. All letters with return addresses will receive an answer from Santa!

Also, get a family photo in front of the 53’ Chevy truck on display during normal business hours, all decked out with a tree in the back and a wreath on the front!

Bethlehem Revisited: A Drive Thru Nativity Lakeview Baptist Church Of NWA December 7 – December 10 6-8PM 1351 E Lowell Ave, Cave Springs This will be a six-scene display of all the events leading up to the birth of Christ! There will be live animals, CD narration in your vehicle, and a cast of 100+ people from Lakeview Baptist Church!

Come see this FREE event for all ages as we tell the gospel story that begins with the birth of Christ!

Elf Movie Arkansas Public Theatre December 23 at 1 PM - 2:30 PM 301 W Chestnut Street, Rogers tickets.vendini.com Children and their families will have so much fun watching the movie while enjoying donuts and hot cocoa. Wear your pajamas, take home treats and start a new family tradition! Doors open at 12:30pm . Movie starts at 1:00pm Seating is limited. Tickets are $5 per person.

Santa Claus is Coming to Town Santa at the Walmart Museum Dec. 9: 5-9PM Dec. 14: 5-9PM Dec. 19: 5-8PM Dec. 23: 9AM-1PM Bring your camera and meet by Santa’s sleigh outside the 5&10 for pictures with St. Nick. Be sure to bring your camera!

I

DAD’SVIEW with Ben Lacy

f you’ve read this magazine before, you probably know that the Dad’s View article is usually a bit silly, sometimes senseless and, sadly, occasionally a bit stupid.

However, outside of this column, its pages hold powerful, emotional and meaningful stories about families dealing with, or overcoming, extraordinary circumstances. These articles are very real, very heartfelt, very raw, and very honest.

Please don’t think of me as a horrible and emotionless soul. My problem is an inability to consume these tales, not an inability to care. Besides, if you asked any of my friends to give you a list of words that describe me, “serious” wouldn’t make the top 100. And, honestly (and thankfully), there hasn’t been much super-somber, sad, scary or solemn stuff happen in my life that would enable me to pen an article with a serious tone. Sure, there have been ups and downs during my trips around Kim Enderle, Peekaboo’s President, CEO, Editor the sun, but, in any given year, the strikes have in Chief and all-around awesome person, often far outpaced the gutters. Until now. asks me if I read these articles. This usually results in nervous shuffling on my part, coupled The funny thing about getting older is that, with no eye contact – sort of like when you ask while you are getting older, everyone else is your kids who broke the lamp, or when your dog too... including your parents. And, at some tries to convince you she really didn’t snatch the point, they reach the end, as my mother did leftover pizza off the counter. This is because, this fall, at the age of 79. At this age, society embarrassingly, I largely avoid the serious stories tells us that death seems slightly more in favor of simply dealing you some dad drivel. palatable then someone who passes at 39; and definitely more understandable than someone who leaves this world at 9. At least, that is what we tell ourselves, but if any of you have felt the sharp sting of loss, you know that’s not the case. Losing someone that has been in your life – for your entire life – is indescribable. A piece of you is now missing; you can physically feel that something is gone.

Prior to passing, my mother suffered from depression for 12 years. While that in itself is tragic, what is even worse is that she and my children mostly missed forming that special Grandma/grandchild bond. Our children are 16, 14 and 10. Therefore, the oldest only has vague memories of a spry, sassy and sometimes snarky Grandma Stephany. The other two have no recollection of their

grandmother before

she became ill. Until now.

Posit

s e v i t a g e N e v i

Again, those of you that read the Dad’s View know my position on modern electronics. In my opinion, we would have been way better off if technology stopped somewhere between discovering fire and the invention of the wheel. Case

in point, when putting together a slide show of my mother’s life to show during her visitation, we found very few printed pictures of her after 2005.

Upon digging further, we found very few pictures of anyone after 2005. Hmmm, what happened around that time? Answer: The widespread use of digital cameras, followed by the great iThingy takeover. My computer is home to 15,000 picture files, but you’d be lucky to find 15 printed photos in my home, and I’d be lucky to actually find 15 meaningful shots out of the 15,000 sitting on my hard drive.

Thank God for film! Ah, yes, remember film?

Remember getting photos in the little white envelopes with tiny negatives? Remember the mystery of what pictures you took or came out well? Remember family albums? Albums are the best, and, thankfully, my dad had a dozen of them dating back to the 1940s, and all the way up through the 90s. There were black and whites, photos of weddings, shots of longpassed great grandparents, images of long lost cousins, Christmas memories, terrifying fashion statements in the form of bell bottoms, mullets, peach colored tuxedos and gravity-defying hair, and, most importantly, pictures of my mom before depression stole the smile from her face and the fire from her soul. In those pictures, my children finally met Stephany Kay Lacy, a woman who

loved playing golf and cards, worked hard, was perpetually late, had half a beer each day, talked louder than a freight train and faster than an airplane, smiled wider than the Cheshire Cat, had a fondness for selecting migraine-inducing carpet patterns, went sledding with her kids during the winter, had a living room with beautiful furniture that no one was allowed to sit on, shopped like it was an Olympic sport, cheered louder than a megaphone for her favorite team, and even once starred in my homemade Motley Crue lip-sync video. My kids were dumbfounded. Completely amazed. Who was this person full of life (and caffeine) that kinda looked like Grandma? For me, and also for my dad, this was incredible therapy and generated more than a few belly laughs and an ample supply of tears as we watched the kids truly meet their grandmother.

So, here’s my gift to you this Christmas. Print pictures. Print a lot of pictures. Print an annoyingly obnoxious amount of pictures. Save them. Share them. Put them in albums; I checked, Walmart still carries them. There’s nothing wrong with taking a bajillion shots on your iPhone and posting regularly on Facebook, but don’t just count on the engineering genius of Steve (Jobs of Apple) and Mark (Zuckerberg of Facebook) to preserve your most precious memories. Pictures, like your loved ones, are best when you are able to hold them.

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The Symphony of NWA and Walton Arts Center Present

“T he Snowman: A Family Concert”

B

ack by popular demand for a fourth season, the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas (SoNA) and Walton Arts Center present the return of a magical holiday concert especially for children and families.

favorite, and my wife and I often find ourselves drawn into the experience, stopping whatever we’re doing to watch it with them. It’s that powerful.

Even if you haven’t heard of it before, do yourself and your family a favor and come to this concert!”

Under the baton of acclaimed SoNA Music Director Paul Haas, the region’s finest professional musicians will perform "The Snowman: A Family Concert" at 2 PM on Sunday, December 17, in Walton Arts Center’s Baum Walker Hall.

Also make plans to attend SoNA’s annual Christmas Pops concert, "A Very SoNA Christmas," on Saturday, December 16, with two shows – one a special matinee performance at 2 PM, and an evening concert at 7:30 PM. Both performances will be held in Baum Walker Hall.

[

[

Magical Yuletide Performance Perfect Way to Kick off the Holiday Season!

"The Snowman: A Family Concert" features a special screening of the Academy Awardnominated, holiday hit film “The Snowman” with an extraordinary orchestral soundtrack that SoNA musicians will perform live.

Captivating for all ages, a winter wonderland comes to life in this timeless tale of a young boy’s special friendship with a snowman. Together, the two go on an enchanted adventure, soaring through the sky, making friends and meeting Santa Claus himself!

“All of us remember what it was like as a child to wish that our favorite toys or stuffed animals would come to life--in fact, to believe they would!”

Maestro Haas said. “This silent film, accompanied by an extraordinary score for virtuosic orchestra, brings that magical thought alive in a way that captivates both young and old alike.”

“I speak from personal experience,” Haas said. “My children have adopted this film as their holiday 46 December 2017

With a blended collection of sacred and secular favorites, "A Very SoNA Christmas" features the SoNA Singers, an auditioned group of choral singers led by Director Terry Hicks — one of Arkansas’ most respected choral conductors — along with area high school and collegiate choruses, and special guest soloists. “'A Very SoNA Christmas' has quickly become a Northwest Arkansas tradition,” Haas said. “And I think the reason is that we bring together so many different parts of the community, celebrating through music this joyous season. Northwest Arkansas is so much more than a collection of cities and towns – it really is an organic and beautiful coming together of people from all walks of life, and SoNA’s Christmas Pops concert mirrors that coming together with an extraordinary blend of traditional and pops programming.”

Tickets for "The Snowman," which are only $9, and "A Very SoNA Christmas" ($30, $42, $52) are going fast. If you haven’t reserved your seats yet, do so now!

To purchase tickets, please call Walton Arts Center’s box office at (479) 4435600 or visit sonamusic.org

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47

WALK

T

By Michelle, Jonathan, Cooper and Ashlyn Wieneke

wo years ago, on October 7, our lives were changed forever. Our 2-year-old daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. I will never forget the night that I realized what was going on, or the three days prior to the diagnosis.

One of your big goals as a mom is to have your child potty-trained. Ashlyn had been doing well with potty training, but all of a sudden we were relapsing, and she was not able to make it to the potty. Monday night I went to check on Ashlyn as she was sleeping, and she had urinated so much that she had leaked out her diaper. This was not just a small leak--the entire bed was soaked and her diaper was as full as if she had been swimming with it on. I thought to myself, “Goodness, you drank too much close to bed time... we need to watch this." Tuesday, I noticed that she was drinking a lot more water than usual, and, again, she was having accidents all the time. Tuesday night she leaked out her diaper the same amount as the night before. I thought to myself, "Could she have diabetes?" but quickly pushed that thought out of my head. We do not have a family history of diabetes, and she has not had any major illness that could lead to this.

48 December 2017

I work part-time, and we are fortunate to have my mom stay with our children while we are both working. On Wednesday afternoon I was working, and I mentioned to my mom to monitor how much Ashlyn was drinking. I had only been at work for an hour and a half, and I received a phone call from my mom. She called to tell me that something was wrong with Ashlyn. She was constantly having accidents. Mom had put her back in pull-ups, and she had filled 3 pull-ups in forty-five minutes.

I am a Family Nurse Practitioner, so I was able to bring a urine dipstick home, and I had a glucometer at home. I was praying that Ashlyn just had a urinary tract infection, knowing that if that was the case she would not be urinating the volume that she was. Instantly, upon testing, I saw that the glucose and ketones in her urine were not only positive, but dangerously elevated. I proceeded to check her blood sugar, which registered at 571. I knew our lives would be changed forever.

Off to the hospital we went. We were able to avoid the intensive care unit because Ashlyn was not in

full diabetic ketoacidosis. We were transferred to Springfield, Missouri, where we spent the next three days filling our brains with all the life-saving information we needed to take care of our daughter.

In order for someone with Type 1 Diabetes to live, they have to receive insulin via either injections with a syringe or from an insulin pump. The food that Ashlyn eats has to be taken into consideration when dosing her with insulin. Carbohydrates have to be counted, and the amount of protein and fat that she eats also affects her blood sugar. This can be very difficult, especially for a young child, to understand--that they cannot eat until their food has been calculated and insulin given.

handles the injections/pump site changes better each time they have to be done (which is every 2-3 days for pump site changes). She also wears a continuous glucose meter (CGM) that gives us a blood sugar reading every 5 minutes on a receiver. Since Ashlyn is so young, she is not able to communicate to us when her blood sugar is dropping low, or when it is high. This CGM has to be changed every 7 days. This gives you a small glimpse into what it is like living with T1D: Turn the page …

One aspect of type 1 diabetes that I did not realize, even as a nurse practitioner, was the affect that this disease has on the entire family. We are very fortunate that we have both sets of grandparents supportive and willing to be involved in the care provided to Ashlyn. Anyone who takes care of Ashlyn must be trained to check her blood sugar and administer insulin, as well as administer glucagon in the event of an emergency.

In August of 2016, Ashlyn developed a rash on her neck, elbows, and other areas. The rash appeared to worsen when she would eat. In late August, Ashlyn was diagnosed with Dermatitis Herpetiformis, which is a rare form of Celiac Disease. This means she cannot eat anything with gluten in it. She is so sensitive that she cannot even use any lotions or soaps that contain gluten. Celiac disease is also an autoimmune disease, and people who have Type 1 diabetes are at a higher risk for developing celiac.

This provided another hurdle for our family to overcome. Despite these difficult times Ashlyn has proven to be a very strong little girl. She continues to play with her brother Cooper, and laugh and dress up as a princess, which she does every day.

She cannot go anywhere without her crown and princess dress.

Since Ashlyn’s diagnosis, we have become involved with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). We partner with JDRF in order to raise awareness of T1D, as well as to raise funds for research for a cure for Type 1 diabetes. One of the main fundraisers that we are involved with through JDRF is the JDRF One Walk. This year we were blessed with an amazing team. Team Princess Ashlyn Powered by Crossfit Reverence was able to raise $52,000. This money goes directly to research, not only for a cure, but also for therapies to help T1D’s manage diabetes more effectively.

Wake

One aspect of type 1 diabetes that I did not realize even as a nurse practitioner was the affect that this disease has on the entire family.

Ashlyn is very strong little girl. From day one, she has not struggled with any of the finger sticks. She

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49

Wake up, check blood sugar, dose insulin, eat breakfast. Check blood sugar at least two hours after breakfast. Sometimes we have to treat low blood sugar with Smarties candies! Check blood sugar before lunch, calculate carbohydrates in lunch, dose insulin. Check blood sugar two hours after lunch. We will have to check blood sugar again and dose insulin if she has a snack. Check blood sugar again before dinner. Calculate carbs, dose insulin. Check blood sugar before bath.

Check blood sugar before bed. Mom and Dad wake up and check blood sugar at least three times a night, usually four. If blood sugar is low, we have to wake her and give her Smarties. If blood sugar is high, we have to dose with insulin. As you can see, there is never a break from type 1 diabetes, but you can be involved in all activities of life the same as someone without type 1 diabetes.

Our story is one of the few where the diabetes is caught before the child is in diabetic ketoacidosis (which is a very critical situation and can be fatal).

?

We want more people to know the signs of Type 1 Diabetes which are: +

Extreme Thirst

+

Frequent urination

+

Dramatic weight loss

+ Lethargic +

Vomiting or flu-like symptoms

This is why we want Ashlyn’s story told.

Diabetes affects 26 million Americans, including three million who have type 1 diabetes (T1D).

T1D is an autoimmune disease, where the body attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

It is usually diagnosed in children. Those with T1D need daily shots of insulin to live.

For more information on T1D and how you can help, visit www.jdrf.org

Ashlyn is very strong little girl. From day one she has not struggled with any of the finger sticks.

50 December 2017

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51

Tis THE

SEASON How to keep off the pounds

T

he holiday season is a joyful time of year to celebrate with friends and family.

But, with the celebrations come lots of party foods at holiday gatherings.

If you’re trying to eat healthy, lose weight or maintain your weight, those holiday goodies can be awfully tempting.

Here are some simple strategies from Northwest Health to avoid overeating and packing on the pounds. By planning ahead and sticking to your resolve, you can follow a healthy diet and still be part of the celebrations.

1

Eat regularly. Holidays are busy, which can disrupt our healthy eating plan. Grabbing meals on the run while shopping or grazing the buffet at social events only encourages you to eat unhealthily, or more than usual. If you must skip a meal or eat at an abnormal time, keep healthy snacks nearby, such as oatmeal, almonds, cereal, fruit or string cheese.

2 3

Get your sleep. Lack of sleep contributes to weight gain and stress. Aim for at least 7 hours of shut eye in order to keep your stress and hormone levels in check.

Prep yourself before the party. Don’t skip a meal or arrive at a party hungry. No – if you skip breakfast or lunch – you cannot save up those calories to consume later. In fact, skipping meals can make you cranky, tired and may even cause a headache. Plus, when you are hungry and surrounded by high-calorie foods, it’s easy to overeat. Always eat a light, healthy snack, preferably with high fiber, before leaving 52 December 2017

your house. Fiber helps you feel full, so you might not eat so much at the party. Choose foods like crunchy vegetables, a salad, a piece fruit, or a small bowl of oatmeal.

4

Make smart choices at the buffet or dinner table. Being health conscious doesn’t mean that you can't enjoy the season and have a little bit of the foods you love.

• Rather than depriving yourself of a certain item, eat small amounts – say, two to three bites – of the foods you can’t resist. Try to just have one small cookie, or two chips with dip.

Just make sure to fill the majority of your plate with healthy vegetables and fruits, whole grain crackers, cheese and lean meats.

• Eat slowly and chew each bite thoroughly. It takes a few minutes for your brain to realize your stomach is getting full. Put your fork down between bites and sip some water.

• Limit rich, sugary foods. They have a way of making you crave more of the same. If the craving hits you, try a piece of fruit or a small bit of dark chocolate. If that doesn’t help, simply take half of a serving of that chocolate or pecan pie you can’t resist.

5

Those sneaky beverages. Avoid beverages high in sugar and calories, or at least limit your intake to a single drink. Also, alcohol adds extra unwanted calories and, if too much is consumed it lowers inhibitions and can lead to overeating. Try consuming water with a lemon or lime, or diet/sugar-free beverages. Or, have a glass or two of water before you start drinking alcoholic beverages, and have one in between drinks, to slow your alcohol consumption.

6

Remain active. Regular physical activity is even more important during the holiday season. Physical activity reduces stress – which usually comes with the holidays – and gives us more energy. If you know you will indulge a bit, increase your exercise time a bit every day. You'll burn off those holiday indulgences and avoid extra weight gain.

Remember, if you increase your exercise, that splurge won’t ruin you.

7

Drink lots of water. Adequate water intake keeps your metabolism humming along at a maximum rate and staves off hunger cravings as well. Mild dehydration can mimic hunger. The best way to avoid becoming dehydrated – and that hungry sensation and excess pounds – is to drink plenty of water.

It's difficult to avoid overeating during the holidays. If you do slip up, don't be too hard on yourself. Just exercise longer the next day and make sure your next meal or snack is a healthy one. By taking a few precautions, you can enjoy

the holidays without overdoing it and gaining extra pounds.

Worried your eating habits are affecting your health? Northwest Health primary care providers can answer your questions about healthier eating.

Online scheduling is now available at NWPhysicians.com, or find one by calling (800) 7342024.

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53

Raising grateful, kind kids starts with

Model

behavior

By Dwain Hebda All of us aspire to raise children who are fundamentally kind and thankful for what they have. But, such attributes, elementary though they may seem, are made, not born in children, according to Dr. Gail Lane, clinical director with Chenal Family Therapy in Bentonville.

"I don’t think that you necessarily come out of the gate knowing how to be kind or grateful," she said. "I think of lot of kids today struggle with entitlement, feeling entitled to X, Y or Z, or a toy when they go to the store."

One example of parents demonstrating kindness is in the way they take corrective actions with children. It doesn't do much good to preach being kind to others and then react in an overly harsh manner over a missed "thank you".

"Something that has been really helpful for my relationship with Eloise and teaching her gratitude is practicing saying 'thank you,'" Lane said. "When she doesn’t say thank you, we gently correct her and say, 'What do you think about that?" or "What do you say to this person?" or "How do you think they felt when they gave you this, and what can you say to let them know that you noticed them?'"

Instead, such attributes are learned behaviors, a product of environment and socialization.

Thus, the best way to inspire your little one to demonstrate these concepts is to model that behavior yourself. It's advice Dr. Lane is trying to follow in her own house.

As Lane herself has discovered, consistently modeling kindness and gratefulness isn't always as easy as it sounds. She recommends developing techniques that keep the concepts at the forefront of family life until they become routine.

"I have a little one, Eloise. She is three, and gratitude has become a really big thing in our house," she said. "Teaching my kid how to be kind is something that I’ve personally wrestled with.

The biggest takeaway that I’ve come up with so far is that I need to be kind myself."

"I think having rituals in which you say the things that you’re thankful for are really important," she said. "At the supper table we talk about our days, and talk about what we were most thankful for during that day. That’s been a fun exercise. It’s been a different way to look back and review the day because it’s easy to get lost in work and get lost in the nitty gritty of life."

"Looking at gratitude, I ask, how grateful am I, and how do I communicate gratefulness to other people? How does (Eloise) see me being grateful toward her, toward my spouse and toward other people in general?"

54 December 2017

Parents should also be mindful that children develop at their own pace and those who are naturally shy may find it more difficult to express their gratitude verbally.

"The challenge for kids that are shy, that don’t talk as much, is helping them develop the tools that they need to help execute gratitude in a public situation," Lane said. "Maybe that’s doing some role-playing, like, "Let’s get out your animals and talk about how your animals can be thankful," for instance. Or, for older kids, have a conversation.

Say, "Okay, maybe you’re shy, maybe you don’t like to speak publicly--how can you let that person know that you are really thankful for them?"

Gratitude and kindness are something to be practiced daily, but, of course, the holidays shine the brightest light on these concepts. Many families like to volunteer at homeless shelters or other worthwhile places to help reinforce in their children how fortunate they are.

Lane doesn't discourage such behavior, but cautions parents to have realistic expectations about their child's ability to process abstract concepts like altruism until at least age 8, when moral development typically starts.

"I definitely don’t think it’s a damaging thing if parents want to take younger kids to serve others.

I think that’s an excellent example of giving back," she said. "Going through their toys or their clothes and giving them to someone else is actually something that I’ve done with my daughter. I don’t know that she equates that with gratitude, but it's introducing another character quality of being a giving person."

Lane said something that's more impactful for younger children might be a daily exercise that she's introduced in her own household.

"For the month of November, I get a big piece of butcher paper and tape it up in the living room or the dining room, and every day we write down something that we’re thankful for," she said. "We do that for the entire month of November, something different for every day of the month."

"To be honest, it gets kind of difficult toward the end, because at the very beginning you’re thinking 'friends and family,' you know. But, when you’re getting toward the end of the month, you really have to think about what else you have that maybe other people don’t have."

- M E E T-

I am 15 years old, and I want to become a psychiatrist when I grow up.

I was seized into foster care on September 3rd, 2014. My biological dad and stepmother lost their parental rights in February of 2015. Ever since, I have gone through multiple placements.

I place confidence in adoption. Adoption is free in the state of Arkansas if you go through the fostering system. Although the course of adoption can seem difficult and remote, the waiting creates patience and tolerance in those that pursue it. For adolescents who have gone through the foster care system without being adopted, and do not have a family to return to, aging out of the system can be detrimental to their emotional needs. These children are not like the other children. Unlike average kids, foster children have to work four times harder just to make it through the day. Foster children’s minds are frequently plagued with worries, about everything from school, to friends, or even if they can retreat back to a home that they trust. Some adolescents deal with behavioral issues due to the past traumas that they have experienced.

Many foster families tend to be unstable or unhealthy for the child’s needs. Unfortunately, adjusting to a secure and structured environment is difficult. It is not always the foster parent’s fault. Foster children can even be on the offensive 56 December 2017

when it comes to this, because they often do enact maladaptive behaviors, such as getting in trouble at school, home, or legally, sexually acting out, throwing tantrums, aggression, etc.

By participating in these behaviors, they can be unwittingly dislodged from the family. In some instances, the children who have been in the foster system manipulate and deceive their families because they believe that if they act upon an event or admit the truth, they will have to pack their bags and head to the curb again.

Adoption is a wonderful gift to children and adolescents. Giving a child a home, forever, a place to heal, is appreciated by both them and so many others. In God’s eyes, adopting is not only welcoming children to the family, but also letting God into your home. It brings the family closer.

Showing a child love they have not experienced is a beautiful thing to witness. It is a joy to see children growing up, and finally meaning the words “Mom” and “Dad.” I believe that kids should not have to “age out” of the system. Instead of adopting outside of the country, I think that people should solve the problems in their own community before it becomes a larger problem.

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Boys -2- Men

YOUNG MEN’S

By: Nick Woodhouse YMSL Ozark Sophomore Vice President Matthew Esarte YMSL Ozark Sophomore VP of Communications Young Men’s Service League (YMSL) is a national organization that teams mothers and their high school-age sons in community service. It is designed as a four-year program emphasizing philanthropy, education and leadership. YMSL’s mission is to serve those in need in the local community, while fostering important shared experiences between mother and son, strengthening their relationship in the process.

After hearing about this great program, Sherri Esarte, now the Ozark Chapter President, immediately began looking into how to bring the organization to Arkansas. Within a few months, Arkansas’ first chapter of the Young Men’s Service League (YMSL Ozark) was up and running. Its members, consisting of 41 moms and 46 high school freshmen and sophomores, now serve 19 different philanthropies in Northwest Arkansas.

Just two months after its inaugural meeting, the members of YMSL Ozark have already completed 415 hours of community service.

When our moms first told us about this organization, of course we were skeptical. But, since then, we have had several volunteer opportunities that have made us realize how rewarding service can be. We have truly enjoyed the opportunity to interact with others, serve our local community and make the people that we serve happy. For example, at Jamestown Nursing and Rehab, we both played bingo with elderly residents for two hours. It was a truly rewarding experience to see how happy our presence made these ladies, and has encouraged us to keep volunteering. Together, we have served 17 hours and look forward to completing our remaining 23.

Members of YMSL are required to complete 20 hours of service each year; 10 of which must be

SERVICE LEAGUE

served as a mother-son team. According to Pam Rosener, the co-founder of YMSL, “The motherson relationship is at the heart of YMSL, and what sets it apart from other service organizations.

We are so pleased that our unique combination of mothers, sons, and service has taken root in Arkansas, and, as is so often the case, expect YMSL Ozark to spawn more chapters in Northwest Arkansas as word spreads about this win-win approach to philanthropy and parenting.”

In addition to their service hours, the young men are required to attend monthly meetings, where they develop leadership skills and learn about a variety of life skills. Members of the community are invited as guest speakers to impart valuable life lessons to the boys about topics including practical life skills, civic responsibility, social skills and life choices.

Each young man holds a specific position within the organization, ranging from President to Committee Member. They learn how to fulfill the duties of their role, as well as how to conduct their own formal business meetings. Jack Burgess was so thrilled to hear that he’d been chosen as the YMSL Sophomore Class President that he immediately changed both his Instagram bio and his fantasy football team name to reflect his new status! YMSL provides a safe environment for boys to explore a variety of leadership roles which will better prepare them as they progress through high school and beyond.

The YMSL organization has widespread appeal to mothers of teenage sons who find it increasingly difficult to spend quality time with their boys due to the hectic schedules in today’s society. Caroline May, who has a freshman in YMSL, said that one of the most valuable things she finds about the group is “the opportunity to do service projects with my son, because he is in a lot of other activities and I feel this organization has brought us together.”

Kim Moss and her son volunteered at Miracle League, an organization in Springdale, where mentally and physically disabled children and adults have the chance to play, learn, and love the sport of baseball, as well as experience the camaraderie that comes with being part of a team. “Miracle League was really powerful for me,” said Kim. As a librarian at Creekside Elementary School, she had taught some of the children participating and said, “It was really fun seeing them interact with our boys and have a great time.” Kristie Sommer, YMSL Ozark’s Website and Communications VP, said, “It is so important for our young men to understand that there are many people out there with a whole host of struggles and challenges. These experiences will hopefully open their eyes and their hearts to those around them in need.”

Young Men’s Service League is not only a valuable organization for the community of Northwest Arkansas, but also for the development of its members as people. Julie Helm, who has a freshman in YMSL, said, “I think this is a great organization. You meet others and feel like you’re making an impact, while bonding with your son.”

All in all, we encourage moms and young men like ourselves to partake in this organization. If you are looking for ways to serve your community but just aren’t carving out the time, YMSL provides structure, opportunity and accountability. During the first 10 weeks, we can already tell it has better prepared us for further education and our future prospects.

YMSL will begin their membership drive for incoming freshmen (for the 2018-19 calendar year), beginning in January through March of 2018.

Additional information about YMSL Ozark can be found on Facebook at YMSL Ozark Chapter or online at www.ymslozark.org or www.ymslnational.org

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Each surprise box is delivered monthly to customers ages 6-99 and is filled to the brim with the latest and greatest brick products, including the fan favorite, LEGO. The contents include unique items that cannot be purchased at your average toy store around the corner. Each month, boxes include custom LEGO kits designed by famous LEGO designers, Custom LEGO Minifigures, LEGO accessories and Brick Loot exclusive items.

Bullying -- at school, church, sports practice, dance class, and especially online -- can be one of the most devastating things for a kid to experience. The AfterGen company creates backpacks, lunch boxes, charms, and other expressive, wearable school accessories with positive, antibully messages embedded into the graphic designs that decorate them.

Some designs were even created by kids who have experienced bullying! AfterGen donates money and time to antibullying organizations around the world, so, when you purchase one of their backpacks or charms, you're putting your money, and your accessories, where your heart is.

Feltman Brothers' Birthday Bib www.feltmanbrothers.com While every year in the life of your child is worth celebrating, the first few birthdays of your little one really take the cake (so to speak!) The first times they get to experience balloons, cupcakes, pin the tail on the donkey, and way too many gifts are truly special, and deserve a commemorative outfit. Feltman Brothers' Birthday Bib is perfect, both keeping your baby's outfit spotless and acting as a sweet reminder of how wonderful their day was. Available in pink or blue themes.

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Window Jammers www.windowjammers.com/peekaboo?afmc=28 We all know that long car rides + kids can more often than not equal major trouble, with boredom leading to temper tantrums of agitation (on the part of the kids or the adult driving!) at the drop of a hat. There are many, mostly electronic, products available to combat restless kiddo syndrome, but sometimes the solution can be worse than the problem.

Enter Window Jammers! The Window Jammer is a sturdy plastic card, cut out in one of a multitude of shapes, attached to a telescoping 'Jammer Stick' and strong suction cup, which itself attaches to the window so your kid can jump all over the landscape--like a real-life Mario game! This deceptively simple gadget turns everyone's eyes outside the car, as kids can use their imaginations to manipulate the scenery around them. Best of all, it never runs out of batteries, and the longer you drive, the more interesting things your kids can include in their game.

QuickZip Fitted Sheet www.quickzipsheet.com This is a game changer! Sheets now go on easy with a base that stays on and a top sheet that zips on and off in seconds. When you have kids, the smallest shortcuts can make a huge difference--especially when everyday situations get sticky or stained. QuickZip Fitted Sheets make switching out your kiddos' sheets a literal breeze! Just unzip, and rezip, in a matter of seconds. We especially love their Artist Collection, featuring Brie Jepkema, a mural and kids' camp artist. Her 'Sweet Dreams Collection,' filled with little lambs, moons, and stars dancing across sheets and pillows, is sure to soothe your little one at nighttime.

Dribble Up www.facebook.com/pg/DribbleUpBasketball Playing sports is a great way for kids (and adults!) to get outside, build confidence, and learn new skills--and being a part of a real team with a coach amplifies that learning!

But, what about the off-season? Or, what if you or your kiddo wants to work on skills without the pressure of teammates around?

DribbleUp's selection of 'smart balls' sync up to an app on your phone, so that you can have a virtual coach for private sessions! No batteries or charging up needed-all you need is the ball, the app, and you can train anytime, anywhere, and track your progress over time.

We especially love their new soccer ball, which is available in sizes for both kids and adults.

Move over, David Beckham!

Now Offering Aesthetic Services Women's Health Associates is excited to now offer skin care services to look and feel your best!

We offer medical-grade products and treatments including:

LATISSE | OBAGI VI PEELS | DERMAPEN MICRODERMABRASION DERMAPLANING This allows us to provide individualized, high quality care for each patient. We would love the opportunity to discuss your cosmetic and skin care needs. Initial consultations are always free.

Meet our Aesthetician Randi Saunders, LMA, CLT, PB

Randi is a licensed medical aesthetician, licensed permanent makeup technician and certified laser technician with over eleven years of experience.

She received extensive laser training from the IMAJ Institute in Scottsdale, Arizona with the most advanced aesthetics curriculum in the nation. She has additionally been certified by the American Institute of Intradermal Cosmetic Arts and Sciences in Boca Raton, Florida. She also has advanced training in paramedical micropigmentation and permanent makeup.

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2900 Medical Center Pkwy., Suite 370 • Bentonville, Arkansas

479-876-8111 www.whanwa.com Our office is open Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

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It has been an honor and pleasure to care for your family this year. Have a merry Christmas, and happy, healthy new year!

NEW ROGERS LOCATION OPENING SPRING 2018

WELLNESS CLINC 3383 N. MANA Ct, Suite 101 Fayetteville | 479.443.3471

LOWELL CLINIC 117. S. Dixieland Rd, Suite C Lowell | 479.770.5454

ACUTE CARE & WALK-IN CLINIC 3380 N. Futrall DR Fayetteville | 479.442.7322

M – F | 8 AM – 5PM

M – F | 8 AM – 5:30 PM

M – F | 8 AM – 7:30 PM Saturday | 8 AM – 11 AM

nwapediatrics.com

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At a

Glance ARTS and MUSIC

Amazeum (Pg. 22) (479) 696-9280 Crystal Bridges (Pg. 35) (479) 418-5700 crystalbridges.org Malco (Pg. 67) malco.com Symphony of Northwest Arkansas (Pg. 46) sonamusic.org Trike Theatre (Pg. 39) (479) 464-5084 triketheatre.org Young Chef's Academy (Pg. 13) (479) 401-2006 Walton Arts Center (Pg. 34) waltonartscenter.org Wing Studios (Pg. 31) wingstudios.net

BANKS First Security (Pg. 47) www.fsbank.com; www.onlyinark.com

CHILDCARE/NANNY SERVICES ABC Happy Kids Learning Academy (Pg. 59) (479) 202-5691 abchappykids.com Better Beginnings (Pg. 23) (800) 445-3316 arbetterbeginnings.com First Friends Preschool (Pg. 4) 479-636-3338 Mary’s Little Lambs Preschool (Pg. 65) (479) 273-1011

CLOTHING Belle Boutique (Pg. 20) shopbelleboutique.com Oh Baby Boutique (Pg. 45) ohbabynwa.com

DENTIST Pediatric Dental Associates & Orthodontics (Pg. 55) (479) 582-0600

DERMATOLOGY / SKIN CARE Advanced Dermatology / Skin Care Center (479) 268-3555 (Pg. 25) NWA Center for Plastic Surgery (Pg. 2) (479) 571-3100 nwacenterforplasticsurgery.com Women's Health Associates (Pg. 62) whanwa.com

EDUCATION/TRAINING

Academic Math & Language Therapy (Pg. 15) (479) 253-3256

To advertise email: editor@peekaboonwa.com Aloha (Pg. 53) (479) 426-3419 FIA Worldwide (Pg. 41) www.FIAworldwide.com Goddard School (Pg. 37) (479) 262-0970 GoddardSchool.com New School (Pg. 5) thenewschool.org Super Science (Pg. 39) (479) 444-0303 www.super-sci.com Taglioni Academy of Performing Arts (Pg. 16) (479) 372-6418 Thaden School (Pg. 21) (479) 268-5321 Young Chef's Academy (Pg. 13) (479) 401-2006 Wing Studios (Pg. 31) wingstudios.net

FAMILY FUN / ENTERTAINMENT Amazeum (Pg. 22) (479) 696-9280 Crystal Bridges (Pg. 35) (479) 418-5700 FIA Worldwide (Pg. 41) www.FIAworldwide.com The Little Gym (Pg. 57) thelittlegym.com/rogersar Malco (Pg. 67) malco.com Starlight Skatium (Pg. 43) (479) 444-STAR Super Science (Pg. 39) (479) 444-0303 www.super-sci.com Trike Theatre (Pg. 39) (479) 464-5084 triketheatre.org Young Chef's Academy (Pg. 13) (479) 401-2006 Walton Arts Center (Pg. 34) waltonartscenter.org

FOOD / DRINK TCBY (Pg. 3) (479) 636-8229 (TCBY)

HEALTH AND WELLNESS Advanced Dermatology / Skin Care Center (479) 268-3555 (Pg. 25) Arkansas Children's Northwest (Pg. 66) ARchildrens.org/nyla Best Start (Pg. 19) (479) 575-9359 Family Foot Health Center (Pg. 61) (479) 636-9393 Friendship Pediatric Services (Pg. 51) fccare.org Northwest Primary Care (Pg. 8-9) nw-physicians.com NWA Health Solutions (Pg. 11) (479) 636-1324

To advertise email: editor@peekaboonwa.com Tru Health Med Spa (Pg. 53) truhealthmedspa.com

JEWELRY AND GIFTS David Adams (Pg. 41) davidadams.com (479) 444-7778

LEARNING CENTER Academic Math and Language Therapy (Pg. 15) (479) 253-3256 www.amltherapy.com ABC Happy Kids Learning Academy (Pg. 59) (479) 202-5691 abchappykids.com Mary’s Little Lamb Preschool (Pg. 65) (479) 273-1011

PEDIATRICIAN Living Tree Pediatrics (Pg. 33) 479-282-2966 Northwest Pediatric Convenient Care (Pg. 7) (479) 751-2522 NWA Pediatrics (Pg. 63) nwapediatrics.com

Ozark Pediatrics (Pg. 27) (479) 544-9432

THERAPY Academic Math and Language Therapy (Pg. 15) (479) 253-3256 www.amltherapy.com Friendship Pediatric Services (Pg. 51) (479) 524-2456

ULTRASOUND Baby Face & More (Pg. 25) (479) 270-7391

WOMEN'S HEALTH Parkhill (Pg. 57) Parkhillclinic.com Siloam Springs Women's Center (Pg. 12) (479) 524-9312 Women's Health Associates (Pg. 17) whanwa.com

To advertise and become a part of the Peekaboo Family email: editor@peekaboonwa.com

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