September 2016 by Peekaboo

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September 2016

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The

Family Kimberly Enderle Editor-in-Chief editor@peekaboonwa.com | 479-957-0532

Jonathon Enderle Creative Director jon@peekaboonwa.com | 479-586-3890

Addi McNeel Associate Editor

Columnist Kim and Jonathon with Ava, Grant and Holden Enderle. Photo by Main Street Studios

contributing writer/Editor Frances Wilson

Distribution/ Circulation Joyce Whitaker Judy Evans Marcedalia Salinas

Ben Lacy Dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s View

Columnist

Jeremy Whitaker Michelle Dodson

Peekaboo Publications

Veronica Zucca Story Design

PO Box 1036 Bentonville, Arkansas 72712 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

Kristin Hvizda Dalai Mama

Columnist

Jennifer Cristofaro Events

inside

S ep t embeR 2 0 1 6

26 Life as an Army Wife by: amy richards

Dad’s View

with ben lacy

Emmery’s Story

NUK® Outtakes

by: Dylan + Ashley Antoine

Heroes Among Us

Everyday Hero

BY: Tiffany snodgrass

Art Smart at Crystal Bridges BY: linda deberry

30 Days of No Yelling By: allie casazza

Paper + Thread

Terra Studios

Meet Austin

by: frances wilson

by: krystal royce

by: frances wilson

Born to be a Hero

by: Marisha gardisser

What “Baby Friendly” Means by: Northwest health system

on the cover 58

Starting Over by: mindy watkins

The Kinesiotape Advantage By: Cassie nolan

Cover Sponsored by: Northwest Health System www.northwesthealth.com

10 September 2016

Wyatt, 8 and Wylie, 5 sons of Matt and Marisha Gardisser of Highfill.

Photo by: BC Photography brittanycoffeephotography.com

from the editor 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! Next month is our annual families of twins and triplets! November: Spotlight on Adoption. December: Holiday Gift Guide and Events. Photo by: Ever After Portraiture

My boys are, no doubt about it, 110 percent B-O-Y. Anything and everything can be easily turned into a ramp, every stepstool a diving board, and any spoon or stick is a ninja sword. Their favorite characters are superheroes, of course, and they don’t leave the house without a backpack full of mini figure characters – sometimes even a Batman house or two. In fact, the hostess at our favorite restaurant even seats us at a table 2-3 seats too big just to accomodate the superhero shenanigans. But the real superheroes in their eyes are not just the capewearing kind. In my little ones’ eyes, superheroes pass by them every day. They are the firefighters in their cool red trucks, and the policemen and women who protect them from the “bad guys.” They are the men and women in the camo clothes who deserve a salute from everyone that walks by. I am inspired by each of the stories shared with Peekaboo in this annual hometown heroes issue. The men and women who keep our community (and country) safe all seem so invincible - real life superheroes. Unfortunately, that cloak of invincibility doesn’t exist outside of the comic books. This reminder came like a nightmare when a deputy lost his life doing his job to keep his community safe last month.

14 September 2016

Sebastian County Sheriff’s Deputy Bill Cooper lost his life in the line of duty on August 10, 2016. This loss brought me back to the reality that the world can be a very scary place. It is doubly heartbreaking when someone dedicated to saving lives in turn loses their own. Our prayers are with his family and friends, and he will be remembered always for his heroism. Hometown heroes come in every shape and size, with many different experiences and tales to tell. I am honored for you to meet them and hear their stories on the pages inside, just as I am now honored to know them myself. This month, as we take time to reflect on the sacrifices these amazing people make for us, take a moment to introduce them to your children. Schedule a visit with one of the local fire stations or police stations for a tour. Or, take a special treat to a family you know who has a mom or dad serving in the military, just to let them know that their sacrifice is not going unnoticed. Finally, volunteer! Help your child find a way to do their own “super work” around their home, neighborhood, or town.

Emmery’s Story by: Dylan and Ashley Antoine

eptember is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Many people already know that cancer exists. It has affected almost everyone in some way, whether they have lost a grandparent, parent, aunt or uncle, or teven battled it themselves. However, many people forget the fact that while adults struggle with these diseases, our children, little souls who have not had the chance to grow up yet, are often victims as well. More than 40,000 children undergo treatment for cancer each year. Forty thousand kids who are asked to experience a very mature, scary and sometimes painful treatment in order to make them well again. Every day, 43 children are diagnosed with cancer. Forty three families are told their child is going to war to save their life. September 1, 2015 was our day.

That morning was a typical morning in our house. Our children awoke around their normal times and ate the same breakfast they ate every morning. After breakfast, they enjoyed some brief time watching Sesame Street before playtime. Our two-year-old daughter, Emmery, had a recently scheduled doctor’s appointment that day. Her belly had become slightly distended, as well as providing some interesting diaper changes. So, after some discussion, her mother and I had decided that she should get checked out. Based on some scouting through the Internet, we had a theory that it could be an allergy, perhaps even lactose intolerance, so we needed a doctor to confirm before we began to make any changes.

16 September 2016

After arriving for our 2 o’clock appointment, we met with the doctors who had their own theory – intestinal blockage. This condition was apparently common in toddlers, so we took her down for a quick X-ray to confirm their suspicions before we were given our treatment. After an eternity in a small room with two small children, the doctors returned with a serious and concerned demeanor. “Your daughter’s X-ray shows multiple masses in her abdominal area.” Little did we know, this statement would be just the beginning. After some additional scans to confirm, our doctors concluded that we needed to seek help right away. Arkansas Children’s Hospital (ACH), located in Little Rock, would be waiting for Emmery to arrive that night so that doctors could examine her first thing in the morning. Armed with a stack of test results and two tired children, two scared parents packed for a trip of unknown duration. Our family arrived at ACH during the early morning hours to continue our terrifying journey. That morning, we were awoken to the sounds of doctors and nurses in our room wanting to review paperwork, perform tests and talk to us about Emmery’s situation. Despite a tremendous lack of sleep, we listened as closely as possible to the doctors in order to make sense of this situation. Emmery’s abdomen contained a group of abnormal masses. Over the

next 24 hours, several scans and blood tests were performed to determine why these masses existed. “We believe Emmery has cancer.” This was the initial opinion from the oncologists at ACH, based on the masses and the tumor markers that Emme possessed. Our jaws fell to the floor while our hearts broke as we heard these words. Fear, uncertainty, and sadness filled the room as we tried to contemplate what this meant. Based on the scans and data, the doctors believed that Emme had a form of ovarian cancer, as the source showed to be her left ovary. Over the next day, more tests were needed in order to confirm her diagnosis and begin treatment. A surgery was performed that Wednesday in order to remove as much from the masses that existed as possible. “We would like to place a port during this surgery.” A port is a small disc about the size of a dime that is placed below the skin right above the heart. The port eases the stress of IV placements. Her left ovary and a substantial amount of tumor were removed. Samples were sent to the pathology department for testing while Emme was sent back to her room to meet her nervous parents and begin her recovery. Imagine our shock when we met back with our little girl to find a new scar more than half-way up her abdomen. This little warrior had her first battle wound. The events of the next few days continued the downward spiral of our nightmare. The doctors would return to confirm their diagnosis. Based on pathological reports, surgery results and blood samples taken, Emme was diagnosed with stage 3 mixed cell ovarian germ cell cancer. Approximately 3 percent of childhood cancers are malignant germ cell tumors. While samples were sent to another pathology lab for further confirmation, treatment was to begin immediately. The oncologists entered the room with paperwork and binders detailing the plans for our attack. While we listened to the doctors explain the treatments, our hearts could not contemplate pumping these poisons into our daughter in order to save her. Stress and fear rose as we listened to each possible side effect. Emme’s life over the next few months would be torture and, as parents, we were helpless to protect her. A few days later, during the late night hours, I would hold my daughter’s hand as she began her treatment. I spent the next few hours constantly apologizing for the fact she had to undergo this and explaining that it was needed to make her better. Luckily, all she wanted to do was sleep. Treatment and recovery would progress over the next few days. Emme started to eat real food after her surgery, which she was excited about,

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and also began to get up and walk. Unfortunately, she gained an unhealthy fear of doctors as well and informed them “Emme’s all better!” when they entered her room, which was simultaneously adorable and heartbreaking. After a few days of treatment, she began to feel a little tired and nauseous, but handled her treatment like a champ. The doctors explained that the first round would be her best because her blood counts were at their highest, but that they would soon begin to fall. We came home after two weeks to the safety of our own home and began to try to rebuild our lives around a new “normal.”

Pathology reports had confirmed this condition was growing teratoma syndrome, a condition that the only known cure is complete surgical removal. GTS is extremely rare – rare enough that no real research has been done for it, and finding a hospital or doctor that has experience treating children afflicted is almost impossible.

Aside from still recovering from abdominal surgery, Emme was glad to be home and began to go back to her normal routine. This reality would not last long. Two weeks after we arrived home, Emmery spiked a fever of 101. Our oncologists advised that if her fever hit 101 or higher, she must proceed directly to the emergency room and down to ACH for monitoring due to the risk of infection. After a long stop at the local ER, our family was once again trekking down to Little Rock in the middle of the night to visit ACH. During this night’s events, Emme started to show her most physical effect of her cancer treatment. While she had started to lose a little of her hair in the days prior, the stress of this night’s/ morning events left her almost bald by the time we were admitted to ACH. As her parents, we knew that she would lose her hair, and that this was a minor side effect compared to the binder of possible ones we read weeks prior. However, this was a very visible change in our daughter. We could not look at her without the constant reminder of the struggle she was enduring. Fortunately, she is a pretty cute bald kid!

As the months went by, Emme would visit the hospital again for three more treatments. Our family would pack up for the week-long stay. The car would be crammed full of clothes, toys, snacks and anything else needed to get us through the week of being sequestered at the hospital. For the most part, Emmery took the treatments pretty well. Days after treatment started, she started to exhibit classic signs such as nausea, fatigue and sometimes required transfusions due to low platelets or hemoglobin. The tumor markers doctors used to detect the cancer’s presence dropped after the first treatment, and after the third treatment they were registered as normal. At home, we lived in state of isolation and paranoia. White blood cells, the cells in our body that are responsible for fighting off disease, are affected by chemotherapy and therefore leaves a cancer patient with a lower immunity. Visitors were subject to a strict interrogation on their physical condition and the condition of people they had contacted, as well as a strict hand sanitizing when they entered our home. Packages and gifts were disinfected while food was microwaved. After Emme’s fourth treatment, her tumor markers were still normal and there had been no new side effects. At the beginning of December, doctors scanned Emme again in order to assess the performance of the chemotherapy and found that the tumor had not shrunk as much as it should. There were two theories: the treatment was not working as expected, or what was left was mature

teratoma– a form of benign (non-cancerous) tumor. Emme’s case was brought before a collection of doctors who discuss tumors, the tumor board. It was decided that samples were needed and surgery should occur as soon as possible. In mid-December, we were back in Little Rock for her second major abdominal surgery. Surgeons removed everything possible, leaving only risky tumor tissue that was attached to organs. The goal was to debulk as much as possible, as well as collect samples for pathology to determine what remained. Since she had been off chemo for a few weeks, Emme was strong for this surgery, and we were sent home just a few days before Christmas. Christmas was extra special for us last year. On December 29, we had been awaiting the results from pathology for over a week. Our conclusion was that we would not hear from doctors until the new year due to vacations, holidays, etc. Then... the phone rang. It was our oncologist delivering the news. As my wife and I held our breaths, we were told that what remained in Emme at this time was a mature teratoma, and Emme was CANCER FREE! This was a great way to ring in the new

year! The next few months we looked forward to blood tests every month followed by scans every three months to watch for any reoccurrence of the cancer and to monitor the benign tumors that remained. The doctors’ hope was that, as Emmery grew, these tumors would become proportionally small and remain unnoticed through her life. The next few months passed by while we adjusted to a semi-normal life. Emme’s hair began to grow back and she slowly started working her way back to a “normal” child. She enjoyed playing with her little sister, being an artist and going to dance class, along with other kid activities. During this time, we enjoyed visits from family members, a super hero/princess party for Emmery from the University of Arkansas’s Love Your Melon crew, as

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well as Emmery’s third birthday. This birthday was a huge goal for our family. While in the hospital, we made a goal that Emmery would have a third birthday party, and she would be happy and cancer-free at it. We reached this goal and enjoyed it with our family and friends at Emme’s own Super Hero party. The highlight for Emme was all the presents and bows, and of course her chocolate and strawberry cake. We still hear about that cake to this day. At the beginning of May, our quarterly scans were due, and once again we journeyed to ACH. As always, Emme was very nervous, but handled this event as she always does, as our superhero. After a couple of days, we received a call from our doctor with the most unexpected news. While Emmery’s tumor markers were still within normal range, the tumor that remained inside of her was still growing - and growing at a quick rate. The initial diagnosis was growing teratoma syndrome (GTS). This condition is a very rare condition that can occur when a mature, benign teratoma begins to grow like cancer. It cannot be killed with chemotherapy or radiation. A new surgery was quickly scheduled for the end of May as we called our family to deliver the news and make plans for the next stage of this war. It was supposed to be an extensive debulking surgery. We were told the doctors would go in and get the rest of the teratoma, or as much as possible, to try and fix the situation and help our daughter. We should expect to stay a week in the hospital while she recovers. The day before the surgery, we arrived in Little Rock and had some much-needed family time. Emmery picked dinner and we made a stop by the cupcake shop so she could eat a strawberry cupcake with her little sister. The entire family crashed in the hotel room late that night and mentally prepared for the next day. The surgery lasted over six hours. Despite this work, the tumor had a very vascular connection to the liver, and the surgeons were not able to remove everything inside. Emmery had to have a breathing tube in place, as well as receive blood during the surgery, so she was sent to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) for monitoring for the night and should have been transferred to a regular room the next day. While Emmery’s will is very strong, a series of unfortunate circumstances kept her on a breathing tube for 35 days. We ended up spending a total of 43 days inside of the PICU in a room that

20 September 2016

can only be compared to a small zoo exhibit due to the walls primarily being windows. It was during this time that we began our search: a search to find a way to save our daughter. Pathology reports had confirmed that this condition was growing teratoma syndrome, a condition for which the only known cure is complete surgical removal. GTS is extremely rare – rare enough that no real research has been done for it, and finding a hospital or doctor that has experience treating children afflicted is almost impossible. Emmery is the youngest person, male or female, documented as having this disease. Due to Emmery’s small stature and the rarity of this condition, ACH was not prepared to treat her. While our daughter recovered, doctors began to collaborate and came back with a new drug, a chemotherapy that has been used for breast cancer treatments in adults that has seen some success with stopping the growth of GTS. This treatment would be experimental; however, we did not have another option. so we began treatment there. We were sent home a few weeks later. Now, we hope and pray. We are hoping that this drug will halt the growth of the tumor and allow our sweet daughter time to grow. Once she gets older, the tumor should then be proportionally smaller, hopefully making it easier to remove surgically. We pray. We pray that we find the right hospital who can fix our little girl and allow her to get back to her childhood. We are still searching for the right hospital, but have many currently reviewing her case. This will require many long distance trips, most likely across the country, for several surgeries. However, currently, Emmery continues to recover fantastically at home with hopes of attending preschool soon and getting back to dance class when she can. In a world filled with discrimination toward race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, etc., pediatric cancer remains unbiased. Childhood cancer is blind to color, education levels, financial stability

and even love. While millions of government dollars are poured into research for many adult cancers every year, less than four percent of government funding is dedicated to finding a cure for ALL childhood cancers. Help is always needed. A few ways to help raise awareness or help children and their families during these times include, but are not limited to: Write your congressman – The proposed bills for financial disbursement of funds for cancer research start here. Our elected officials should be more conscious of how this affects our future generations and dedicate more resources to finding cures for our children. Donate time, goods or money to local hospitals - Arkansas Children’s Hospital is a fantastic organization and treats children year round in their oncology/hematology department. These children could be in one treatment for a week or months. Families sometimes have no clue they will be coming to the hospital, nor staying extensively in the HEM/ONC unit, so any food, toiletries, toys, or anything to pass the time is appreciated.

Donate to a reputable organization for pediatric cancer research. Some of these include: • St. Jude’s • Alex’s Lemonade Stand • St. Baldrick’s Foundation We have been blessed with so many people offering to help us during this past year. We cannot thank our family, friends, and strangers for all of the love, support, food and favors we have asked for over the last few months. We cannot begin to express how much you are appreciated during this time. Prayers and well wishes have gotten us through the last year, and will continue to help us fight each day. If you would like to make a financial contribution to help with medical and travel expenses, please visit www. youcaring.com/emmery-antoine-616877. If you want to follow Emmery’s journey, please visit (www. facebook.com/teamemme). Please be aware that ovarian cancer can strike at ANY age, and the symptoms are usually very mild and often misdiagnosed. Don’t ignore your instinct, report anything abnormal to your doctor as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment saves lives.

Every family picture posted on social media, or framed and hanging in the hallway, has a story behind it - a “real” story. A picture is worth a thousand words, but the outtakes are worth even more!

! s e k a i OU i

Ten-month-old Hank wasn’t sure about this cold watermelon. But he warmed up to it and enjoyed a couple of bites! Photographer: Angela McCoy Your Life in Stills Photography

I was so excited about Jackson’s 1st Birthday pictures that I had been planning the shoot for months. Clearly, Jackson was not nearly as enthusiastic about his pictures as Mommy was (at least on the first try). Photographer: Kim Durham -- Dawnya with KD Photography

For your next photo shoot, keep baby calm with the new NUK® Airflow Orthodontic Pacifier

NUK® Magic 360 10 Ounce Cup keeps kids’ picture day clothes mess-free. Magically drink from any edge, like a regular cup, without the worries of spills or messes. Great for transitioning to an adult cup.100% leak-proof and spill-proof, guaranteed! NUK® is the only cup that uses WOW technology, which means less parts and won’t leak.

Perfect for your little one during teething. The multiple textures soothes baby’s sore gums. NUK® Cool Critters Washcloth Teether

www.nuk-usa.com Available at

Sometimes you just have to get the cries out before you get to that perfect smile. Pictured: Angela Long with son Fischer. Photo by Laurelu of Heart Photography by Staci Shook

This is Whitman telling us he is tired of the pictures. -- Adriana Stacey

“Moms everywhere will fill this pain... Just one picture.. that’s all I wanted. The struggle is real.” Chace is 6 and Crew is 2 with Mom Kasie Yokley Just loving the dream!

NUK® Bottle with Perfect Fit™ Nipple provides a natural way to bottle feed your growing baby. 9 out of 10 babies accept, based on research among NUK® users.

NUK® Disney Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse 5-oz Learner Cup, Silicone Spout, BPA-Free Spill-proof, soft spout is designed to be gentle on gums and no spills mean no messes on picture day clothes.

If you would like to be a part of the October Outtakes, email editor@peekaboonwa.com with the final shot, the fun outtake, and photographer’s name. Have great shots on your camera or phone? We want to see those, too!

HerHes Among Us Life as an army wife Story by: Amy Richards

I am the loving Army wife of Scott Richards, an Army mom of two new soldiers, Seth and Justin, a real estate agent at Lindsey and Associates, and resident of Northwest Arkansas. Scott and I were raised in Northwest Arkansas and we have raised our boys here as well. Our family is a proud Army family. My husband, Scott, is a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army Reserve and is currently deployed to Iraq. This will make his third deployment to date within his 26 years of service. His Army career began as a cadet in the Razorback Army ROTC program while attending the University of Arkansas. He has had the opportunity to serve in several command positions in units in Oklahoma and Arkansas throughout his career, and he will be graduating from the United States Army War College next summer. Each of the three deployments has had its own unique hardships to navigate. The first deployment brought on the major responsibilities of taking care of two very young boys who were just beginning elementary school. Taxi-ing them to school, sports practices, and other extracurricular activities as well as juggling a job, managing all the cooking, cleaning and yardwork on my own, all the while dealing with the stress and worry of whether or not my soldier was safe could be overwhelming at times. It wasn’t just hard for me. I could see that the boys had their own sets of struggles that they were trying to deal with while their dad was away at war. It was a journey that we went through together and, while difficult for them, I could see the resilient warriors that they were becoming. The second deployment was a different journey in itself. The boys, being older and both in middle school, were more self-sufficient, which eased some of the stress of taking care of them. They were even able to help out with some of the household chores and yardwork that needed to be done. However, they were also teenage boys with teenage attitudes. Dad was not around to teach them all the things that dads usually teach their sons during such a transitional period in a boy’s life. I remember a day when my oldest son told me that he needed to know how to shave. So, as I tried to recollect how my own dad and Scott would shave every day before going to work, we

26 September 2016

grabbed a disposable razor, lathered his little fuzzy face up with some shaving cream, and I taught him (as best as I could) how to shave. As with the first deployment, I tried to keep myself from having too much free time that could easily develop into my own little pity party of missing my hubby, and to keep my mind off the stress and worry I had while he was in a war zone. I would fill what little time I did have between my regular responsibilities by doing household projects like power washing the house and restaining the deck. Even though I missed Scott terribly, the time spent apart allowed me to grow and learn how to do things that I may not have if he had been around to do it. This current deployment has been difficult because it has happened to fall right as the nest is emptying. Seth now lives in Fayetteville while attending classes at the U of A. Following in his father’s footsteps, he’s enrolled in the Army ROTC program. Justin has a full schedule of his own working a job, attending classes at the Northwest Arkansas Community College, and, also like his father, working an Army Reserve Soldier which keeps him busy with various trainings. I am able to take care of most everything on my own, but it does seem to make it a little more difficult without my two boys around to help as much as they have in the most recent years. I am so proud of the amazing young men they have become and, even with their busy schedules, they find time to hang out and help out as much as possible. Oh, and did I mention that I am constantly stressed and worried about the safety of my soldier hubby and miss him terribly every day? Another thing I have unfortunately discovered-and I know my fellow Army spouses can relate to--is that all deployments will include at least one vehicle and/or appliance breaking down at some point. It just wouldn’t be a deployment without it happening. The first deployment, our lawnmower broke down. The second deployment included the lawnmower again breaking down, as well as the washing machine. Also during that deployment we had to have major repairs done to our home, as an ice storm caused a large limb to fall through the roof above our master bedroom just days before

Scott had to leave. Before he left for this current deployment, I made sure he bought me a new lawnmower. However, even in my valiant effort to avoid the deployment curse, we have ended up having to get a new refrigerator (I had actually been praying for that to happen) and have had to get the dryer repaired. And, although the deck is in need of another re-staining and I had plans to tackle the chore this summer, the pressure washer has also gone kaput on me. As with all deployments there are holidays, birthdays and anniversaries that Scott misses out on, and important milestones that our boys have while their dad is absent. It can be difficult and emotional to get through, wishing that he could be here and also feeling the heartache he himself goes through, knowing that he is missing all those important moments. For me, going to a restaurant can even trigger some emotion as I look around and see couples sitting together enjoying each other’s company, as I sit alone, without my significant other, wishing he was there. But what I have learned through these three deployments is that you just take one day at a time. You just put an ”X” over that day on the calendar each day, rely on God’s comfort, lean on Him for strength and continue on knowing that you are one day closer to being in your soldier’s arms again. The difficulties of deployment are not limited only to while my soldier is gone. Homecoming, even though it is what all military families yearn for more than anything after a long deployment, can be a very stressful time. You find that you have lived away from your loved one for almost an entire year, sometimes even longer. As can well be expected, that year has changed both of you individually, as you have adapted and grown in order to get through

that time of separation. All of the sudden you are living together again, having to get to know each other again and sometimes even struggling to realize that the “normal” you had as a family before the deployment has altered and you have to adjust to your new “normal.” It often isn’t something that happens within a short period of time and can take surprisingly longer than expected to work through. That is definitely a challenge I am looking forward to, though, as I am just longing for and ready to have him home, safe and sound again soon. Our Army family is blessed to live in what could arguably be one of the best areas that the United States has to offer right here in Northwest Arkansas. Because my husband is in the Army Reserve, it allows us to live close to our family and friends who are always so loving and supportive, especially during deployments. However, living here as a military family can have its downfalls. Although our loved ones live close by, there is still a sense of feeling alone in the aspect that there is an absence of the support groups that are present on an Army base, where everyone understands on a very personal level exactly what you are going through during deployments, and even during the adjustment period of homecomings. As Northwest Arkansas grows, so too does the number of actively serving military families that live within our community. This region has always been excellent about serving our local veterans, but there needs to be a greater awareness for those families with actively serving households. I am humbled at the opportunity to share a small part of our family’s story in the Hometown Hero issue. My hope is that it can give a better understanding to our civilian community of what our actively serving military families go through while serving our country and living our lives by your side daily. I also hope that it brings encouragement to those currently serving military families within the Northwest Arkansas community, and a realization that even though you do not live on or near a military base or installation, you are not alone, and you are appreciated for your dedication and sacrifice. To those families I say “thank you” for your contribution to our Northwest Arkansas community and our great nation!

Terra Studios ...Using Art to Create a Better World.

by: Frances Wilson

erra Studios, nestled right outside Fayetteville, is not only the origin of those sky-blue glass ‘Bluebirds of Happiness’ seen sparkling on local windowsills, but also a haven and enthusiastic supporter of our local NWA art community. All are welcome, from those wanting to create art themselves, grab a bite to eat, or simply wind their way along the merry path of lovely statues and murals on display. Peekaboo, ever on the lookout for wonderful things to do with our families in NWA, sat down with the executive director, Val Gonzalez, to explore this magical place and discuss the past, future and current offerings from Terra Studios.

hear stories every week of the gift of a Bluebird of Happiness® cheering someone who is ill, blessing a marriage, a new home, or a precious baby, or simply lifting someone’s spirits. So, they symbolize all of those things. More importantly, the fame of the Bluebirds of Happiness allow us to showcase glass artistry, which is rare and awe-inspiring, and their purchase allows our patrons to support our nonprofit work.” The patrons themselves number about 50,000 per year, at last count. Half of that comes from the NWA four-county region, while the other half come from other states and foreign countries – some as far away as India, Japan, China, Belgium, South Africa, and France, to name a few!

“For me,” Gonzalez said, “Terra Studios is a little hard to describe. It is a wonderland of art, of course, with about six acres veritably studded with sculptures, whimsy and surprises. Terra Studios is definitely defined by the ‘out of the box,’ delightful, whimsical art that’s found just about everywhere.” The mysterious maze, gorgeous blue gazebo made entirely of glass bluebirds, and dozens of unique little gnome-creatures dotting the landscape along the ‘art walk’ were some of Peekaboo’s favorites! The on-site gallery houses the works of over 120 local artists, and their education building holds classes, art parties, and the new Art Lab. Peckish visitors can visit a small café with snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. Most famously, tours go through the glass-making area, where one can see the Original Bluebirds of Happiness® figurines, as well as the Pink Birds of Hope® being made. These little glass birds – modeled after the living bluebirds that herald spring with their early arrival on the grounds of Terra Studios – are meant to be given as symbols of glad tidings, health, happiness, love, friendship, and good wishes. “We

After 40 years, Terra has experienced quite a lot. It has grown, declined, and bounced back in new incarnations throughout the years. More recently, Terra Studios became a nonprofit to ensure its legacy. “After a little ‘aha moment’ in 2010,” Gonzalez reminisced, “we realized that we wanted Terra Studios to live on well past all of our lifetimes, and we decided to pursue nonprofit status, so that it would eventually become a community endeavor. We received 501(c)(3) status at the end of 2014. Last year, our energies went into re-branding and getting the word out about becoming a nonprofit. Currently, we are working to build healthy relationships with other nonprofits and local business to become more and more of an educational, inspiring and art-filled wonderland. Our mission, actually, is “Using Art to Create a Better World.” We exist to promote art, teach art methods, and inspire creativity. In order to better do that, we teach heritage and contemporary arts and crafts to children and adults, school groups, church groups, and senior groups. We also provide training to regional artists and, through the gallery, showcase their artistic endeavors. We believe that art creates a better world, because studies show

28 September 2016

it supports personal growth and development, problem-solving skills, creative thinking, and social skills. Our goal is that these skills will lead to new ideas, inventions and solutions that will have the power to shape a brighter future for all of us.” Terra Studios is always working to expand and create opportunities for the community. This year, they hosted interns from Southern Arkansas University and University of the Ozarks, who, in addition to working on their own art, helped Terra run its Art Lab and field trips. Rausch Coleman Homes donated materials for the remodel of the public bathroom on the property, while White River Nursery assisted with garden maintenance. Additionally, the Girl Scout Juniors of Troop 5327 is currently refurbishing “the Bug,” a favorite art installation, for their community service Bronze Award. In the future...“we plan to expand class offerings and projects offered in the Art Lab,” Gonzalez said, “have more teambuilding and leadership workshops and artist’s workshops, and continue to add educational and interactive art installations throughout the grounds. To do that, of course, we need community support. Please let us know if you would be interested in supporting an artistic project or any of the art programs at Terra Studios. Or, just come check us out with your family!” As far as art classes for kiddos, Terra has many offerings. According to Gonzalez, Terra has art classes for everyone two years old and up that range from 30 minutes to several hours, with a cost ranging from $5 to $75 per class. Additionally, every Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 4 PM, Terra has Art Lab, which is a creative space available on a drop-in basis. The art projects in the Art Lab require fees ranging from free (or whatever donation can be made) to about $25, with most projects in the $1 - $10 range. In Art Lab, a visitorcome-budding creative might add a structure or creature to the ‘cardboard village,’ learn a little about creating a self-portrait, paint a pet rock, or

dye a silk scarf. Families from all over will come to simply color, for instance, while a group of girlfriends will dye scarves and a couple will glaze a tile to be installed in classrooms.

Lastly, the folks at Terra Studios are especially excited to announce that on Sunday, September 11, they’ll be putting on the Terra Studios Fall Music and Art Festival from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The festival will showcase 80 to 100 local musicians playing in small “song circles” throughout the art park, each featuring different genres of music. “You can stroll from country to folk,” Gonzalez enthuses, “from bluegrass to blues, and rock to reggae!” She recommends bringing lawn chairs or a blanket to spread on the ground near your favorite circle. Additionally, there will be a craft fair, and local food vendors, including The Green Goat.

Woodland Research Northwest 609 W. Dyke Rd. | Rogers, AR 72758 www.woodlandintlresearchgrp.com

Dad’s View with Ben Lacy

ope, didn’t win the lottery… so no real permanent vacation… and no hittin’ me up for a loan! It’s still Chevy and Chik-fil-A for me; no Caribbean and caviar. Actually, it’s a blessing. I’d be a really tragic lottery winner anyway, and quickly wind up on one of those TV specials about fools that won a bajillion dollars and went broke. Or, more likely, having me at home all the time would probably result in a mysterious accident that would lead to my prompt dismissal, as I seriously doubt the queen could manage me 24/7. Not her fault; I’m kind of bonkers and much better in small doses. Kind of like a human Red Bull. So, although we’re not rolling in more money than Manziel (oh, wait...) I really wish we would live like we’re permanently on vacation. Let me explain. First, let’s put aside the whole geography thing. As much as we all enjoy the exquisite beauty of our little slice of the Ozarks, it doesn’t compare to a pristine sandy beach or snow-capped mountains. If you want to disagree, that’s okay, but then tell me why I see half the population of Benton County when I’m in Gulf Shores. Nope, I’m talking about how we act and interact as a family on vacation. There are things about vacation that I wish would be permanently engrained in our lives the other 51 weeks of the year.

32 September 2016

Example one: everyone eats every meal together.

Sure, half the table is running circles around each other like a high speed game of duck-duckgoose trying to capture Charizard, but at least we’re in the same room. If you have kids that are not permanently chained in the basement (not judging) then you know that getting everyone together for dinner happens just slightly more often than Haley’s Comet passing by.

Second: there’s just less stuff.

This one might be a personal thing, but, man, we just have too much junk everywhere. On vacation you have to become a minimalist. Pack everything in a bag, channel your inner explorer and head out! Of course, there’s a Walmart every 500 yards, so you’re covered if you forget tooth paste, deodorant or caramels (random Good Will Hunting reference, forgive me).

Next up: the dreaded T.V.

This summer we took a 9-day trek to parts unknown (okay, we rented a house) and despite the Siren-like calling of the 52” flat screen, it was never turned on. There were no WWE matches over the remote, and my wife never once got to mutter in her grandma-esque tone, “You’re turning your brain to mush.” Nope; no T.V. In fact, Kid #3 hung his swimsuit on it one day to dry (yeah, I know, that’s not cool, I quickly removed it). However, full

disclosure, I did wake up at 4:00 a.m. one morning to try and watch the British Open. I clicked on the tube and nothing happened. After pushing every button on every remote (I’m not big on reading directions) and slamming them on the coffee table a half-dozen times, I checked out the connections. Apparently the last dude had sabotaged it by pulling every cord out of every device and twisting them into a sinister ball. I chalked it up as a sign and went back to sleep.

Exercise.

When is the last time you did any physical activity together as a family? No, the aforementioned remote battles don’t count and neither does ambling around the Bentonville Square playing Pokemon Go. I’m talking about real exercise. Like riding bikes together for miles to get an ice cream cone, or hiking through a place without Wifi (oh, the horror!)? Yes, I know those things are difficult in NWA due to traffic and sprawl - and, honestly, if your entire family jumped on bikes to get ice cream the cool kids would probably throw rocks at you, but the point is, everyone exercised every day together. The increase in exercise lead to the next great event: Sleep. Everyone was asleep early and slept late. No worries, we have no place to go. There isn’t a double-header in Conway at 8:00 a.m. and the Ft.

Smith tournament didn’t last until 11:30 p.m. last night. How about a nap? Why, sure, don’t mind if I do!

Last, but not certainly not least of the benefits of a permanent vacation: simply togetherness.

Example: Lacy Kid #1 and Lacy Kid #3 are six years apart, and rarely interact with each other outside of captivity. Well, shove everyone into a 20 x 20 cell (hotel room) and, after the initial Thunderdome antics end, suddenly they remember they kind of like each other and hanging out isn’t so bad. Besides, the only other option is to listen to me talk about the history of hair metal, so they quickly re-bond. I used to mockingly say that “vacation is just home in another location” and I meant it in a derogatory fashion... Meaning that you don’t really relax on vacation since you bring all the home baggage with you (literally and figuratively). As always, time has proved me wrong. The best thing about vacation IS that it is HOME in another location, but WITHOUT the baggage. No schedules, no sleep deprivation, no school, no sports, just family. So I didn’t win the lottery (probably because of the long odds, but mostly because I didn’t buy a ticket), but I hope to remember the learnings of vacation and implement them permanently.

HerHes Among Us

Officer Belew and Officer Cole go above and beyond the call of duty. Our Johnson Police Department are wonderful. We are extremely grateful for them everyday. Saturday, these two officers took time out of their day to make sure my granddaughter Amberlee’s dream of helping children at Arkansas Children’s Hospital come true. They went to Walmart and purchased toys for the toy drive, pluls poster board, letters and markers to make bright colored posters for

Amberlee’s event. They even made posters with the girls, and then stood out in the middle of Main St. in Johnson with the posters to help get people into the event. With the help of the Johnson Police Department, Amberlee was able to collect a bunch of toys and over $500 for Arkansas Children’s Hospital. We are proud to be from Johnson, and we love our police officers.

- Cindy Bailey

Two years ago, I was looking into hiring an off-duty police officer to help with security on Friday nights at the roller rink. Finding Officer Reed was the best business decision I ever made! He is a genuine good guy and the kids at the rink love him. You’ll often see him fist bumping the teens as they enter the facility and cracking jokes with them. During the school year he is a resource officer for West Campus in Fayetteville, and also works security for the high school football and basketball games. In the summer he teaches the Junior Police Academy. He’s mentioned many times that his goal is to help change the perception of police among the youth. He’s in a great position to do that with his jobs at the school and local teen hangout, and I feel he’s successful. Starlight loves Officer Reed and everything he does for our community!

Tiffany Caston Owner of Starlight Skatium in Fayetteville

34 September 2016

www.davidadams.com

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

HerHes Among Us My Hometown Hero When I hear the term “Hometown Heroes”, I immediately think of my cousin,Rick McGarrah. Rick has been a lifelong resident of NWA, married to his high school sweetheart, (Ashley), and father to three beautiful kids. He is also a police officer for the city of Lowell. What makes him my hero is not only his dedication to his job, but also to his family. His youngest son, Jax (2 years old), was born with a congenital heart defect called Tricuspid Atresia, as well as abnormal holes between the chambers of his heart. He has had more operations than I care to think about. At 2 I can’t imagine the stress of knowing months old, Jax had that my spouse, open-heart surgery and then was taken or parent, could back to emergency be putting their surgery within a few life on the line to hours of the first protect and serve surgery. He has had others and may multiple heart caths, not make it home two surgeries alone at the end of the in July of this year, day due to all the and went for “the big craziness in this surgery” to complete world. the Glenn procedure, started when he was 2 months old, on August 11th at Arkansas Children’s Hospital to hopefully fix his condition for a few years. His family was able to meet with Officer Tommy N Norman - a social media celebrity in the LEO world, and Officer Norman shared a video of Jax’s struggle with the world! He “went viral” with over 250 thousand views and prayers from all over the world. Through all the stress of watching his little one go through so many procedures, Rick has selflessly put his uniform on, day in and day out, to protect this community. He has worked countless hours of overtime to cover medical expenses, as well as day to day living expenses, so Ashley can stay home with the kids and give Jax the special care that he needs. I can remember Thanksgiving and Christmas and birthdays where he’s stopped by on his lunch break to celebrate with us due to working most holidays. He’s always sure to visit with the kids and show off the lights and sirens to help the kids be more familiar and excited to see a real police

36 September 2016

officer! What amazes me is the fact that I have never heard him, or Ashley, complain about all the hardships and extra hours Rick puts in to provide for his family. I can’t imagine the stress of knowing that my spouse, or parent, could be putting their life on the line to protect and serve others and may not

make it home at the end of the day due to all the craziness in this world. But they do - day in and day out, and just keep on going like a well oiled machine. To follow their journey visit www.facebook. com/IHeartJax. Any words of encouragement or support for his GoFundMe page would be much appreciated. Insurance covers some of the medical bills, but does not cover time off from work for Jax’s surgeries, and many doctors appointments and check ups. My hope is that by bringing to light all of the dedication and hard work Rick has done, a little exposure and support from this great community will help to relieve some of the burden of travel expenses to and from Little Rock and time off work accumulated from taking care of those sweet kiddos!. Thank you again, Rick and Ashley, for all that you do for Northwest Arkansas and for your family! It is noticed and appreciated, my Hometown Heroes!

-Kimberly Gracy

HerHes Among Us

Lieutenant Ti Augustine is one of many men and women in our country who wake up in the morning, put on a uniform and badge, and put their lives on the line for citizens all over the United States. He is a typical male who, like many husbands and fathers, loves the outdoors and activities such as fishing, camping, and kayaking. However, the afternoon of March 15, 2016 changed Lieutenant Augustine and his familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives forever.

When dispatchers for Washington County received the call regarding a suicidal man, Lt. Ti and his fellow officers immediately responded in hopes of getting the man the help he needed. When they arrived, they heard a round of gun shots fired and started to investigate. That is when Lieutenant Ti was shot with a 12-gauge shot gun slug in the left thigh. Ti was immediately taken out of harmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way by his team, and he was rushed to the emergency room.

Today he is attending rehab therapy, and he has even graduated from laying in a hospital bed, completely immobile, to walking with crutches and putting some weight on his leg. It is still unknown if LT Augustine will ever be able to return to full duty, but he pushes himself with the expectation of returning to duty when healed.

Lt. Augustine, along with other officers from Washington County Sheriffs Office and Fayetteville Police Department deserved to be recognized as heroes who Ti was hospitalized for a month went above and beyond their call and underwent surgery, and he of duty to serve and protect on was told he would have a long March 15th. and strenuous recovery. The slug God bless and protect all service he was shot with had entered his men and women! left hip, completely shattering the head of his femur bone.

- The family of Ti Augustine

CALENDAR • 2016 Friday, September 2

Call Out Event:

Dancers With Heart 9/11/2016 1:00-3:00 Kaleidoscope Dance Academy Free classes for any dancer with special needs! Handicap accessible.

Weekly Events: Tuesday:

Tuesday ‘Til 8 @ Rogers Historical Museum Every Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

During our evening hours on Tuesday enjoy a different family activity each week. Themes: Ice cream & Old Fashioned Games, 3D Buildings, Pinwheels, Downtown Walking Tour.

Double Punch at Pigtails and Crewcuts all Day Long!

Wednesday:

Little Sprouts at Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks 9:30 a.m. & 10:15 a.m.

https://bgozarks.org/event/little-sprouts-3 Little Sporuts is a weekly botanically-themed program for pre-schooolers. Stories, songs, crafts and activities!

Family Day at Pigtails and Crewcuts Buy one haircut and get $2 off each cut for the rest of the family!

Priceless Nights 4-7:30 p.m. Amazeum

Thanks to a grant from Tyson Foods, Inc., we are happy to announce most Wednesday evenings will be Priceless Nights at the Scott Family Amazeum! These pay-as-you-wish evenings allow guests to make a donation to the Amazeum in lieu of admission.

Library story times:

Bentonville Public Library: bentonvillelibrary.org Fayetteville Public Library: faylib.org Springdale Public Library: springdalelibrary.org Rogers Public Library: rogerspubliclibrary.org Siloam Springs Library: siloamsprings.com

40 September 2016

First Friday | Sugar Creek Days 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Downtown Bentonville Square The Bentonville Square is transformed into a Sugar Creek Day block party, with live music & entertainment, outstanding food options and family-friendly activities. Sponsored by Popchips. On Mainstage 5:30-6:10 | The Leslie Serrano Band 6:45-8 | The Sons of Otis Malone 4:30, 5:10, 6:10 | Holmes Minstrel Brigade 5:00, 6:30 | Bank Robbery Re-Enactment in Front of Arvest Don’t forget to check out our FREE First Friday After Dark concert at Meteor Guitar Gallery at 8pm featuring Foleys Van. Learn more at downtownbentonville.org/firstfriday Light Night Crystal Bridges 8-11pm The Fourth Annual Light Night takes over the space around Buckyball with a glowing evening of creative chaos, featuring music by Deadhead Productions with popular North Carolinabased funk band The Fritz and retro-pop country duo Jazz Mills. Light Night has something for everyone with light-art tinkering stations with Amazeum, black-light graffiti drawing, and special light-art installations by Highberry Music Festival. Enjoy artmaking zones by Amazeum, Crystal Bridges, and local artist Jenn Gilder. Bring your own LED lights for dancing, or show off your illuminated style in a Light Night-inspired costume! A cash bar and food will be available. Free, no registration required.

Saturday, September 3

Legomania Bella Vista Public Library 10 a.m. Join us on the first Saturday of every month for Legomania! This fun and creative event is a great way to invent and design new and amazing things. We’ll provide the Legos, you just bring your creativity! Price: Free

Monday, September 5

Run For A Child’s Hunger 5K/10K/1 Mile Pinnacle Hills Promenade 7:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. Run For A Child’s Hunger has been fighting childhood hunger for 13 years with our run. The 5K and 10K courses are mostly flat and well-marked, with great shade and excellent traffic control. There is also a 1 Mile CAREacter Fun Walk, so dress up as your favorite character and come walk with us to fight childhood hunger. Our experienced CARE team is going to put on an event that is guaranteed fun for the whole family! Come join us on Labor Day for the best race of the season. Free breakfast, race photos, racers tech shirt, and family zone. Let’s race together to fight childhood hunger!

Tuesday, September 6

2016 Fayetteville Film Fest Global Campus Building 2:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. The Fayetteville Film Fest 2016 will feature over 55 films over the course of 5 days. Film selections include Feature Films, Animated Shorts, Live Action Shorts, Music Videos and Documentary films. The Fayetteville Film Fest, now in its eighth year, is an advocate for films and filmmakers as they enter the marketplace. Because we are establishing that

September

groundwork, we are an artistic festival with market potential. We offer a full schedule of panels and other events to compliment the screenings of our films. View our FULL schedule at www.fayettevillefilmfest.org

Thursday, September 8

Preschool Playdate » Birds of a Feather Crystal Bridges 11:30-2 p.m. Enjoy art projects, story time, and creative play inspired by feathered fowls in our permanent collection. Preschool Playdate begins with an 11:30 a.m. performance in the Great Hall. Art & Design: After School Program Session 1 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. NWA Fab Lab 21 W Mountain Suite 123, Fayetteville The ability to imagine is an acquired skill. All innovation exists twice, first in the imagination, second in the physical realm. Students are introduced to a variety of drawing materials and methods that increase their power of imagination. Students are mentored to discover ways to bring their imagination to life and create a series of artworks that show this exploration. Students will hold an art exhibit at the conclusion of the session. Mentor in Residency: Leilani Law of StudioLeilani.com Class will be 4pm6pm Thursdays, September 8, 15, 22, & 29 Ages: 7-12 Capacity: 10 students for each session. Cost: $90 per session

Sat. Sept. 10

A Safe Place to Run 5K/10K Fayetteville 7:00 a.m. This run is in support of all at-risk youth that are in need of safe shelters. Proceeds will be used for educational and prevention programs to bring awareness to the dangers of youth on the street.

Museum Storytime with Miss Sarah 10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Museum of Native American History Museum storytimes are geared towards preschoolers, but great for all ages. Each month’s storytime will feature a Native American folk tale, stories of furry creatures and activities! Free and open to the public. For more information about storytime, please contact The Museum of Native American History, 479-273-2456, monah202@gmail.com. Storytimes by appointment are available for groups of 10 children or more. Fiesta! and Silent Witness Walk 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM 922 E Emma Ave. , Springdale The Silent Witness Walk is to remember those who’ve lost their lives because of domestic violence, and Fiesta will be to celebrate survivors of domestic violence. Assemble at the Jones Center and walk 1.2 miles from start to finish down Emma to the Luther George Park and then back to the Jones Center. This will be followed by “Fiesta”- a family-friendly event full of fun activities, which is designed to celebrate survivors of domestic violence and help bring awareness and resources to the community. Food for purchase, water activities for kids like a bouncy house and other games. Live entertainment and area agencies will have booths and will be giving away information about community resources and services. Door prizes all afternoon! This event is free of cost and open to the public.

Sun. Sept. 11

Fall Music Festival Fayetteville - Terra Studios 11am-6pm Featuring live music from over 80 musicians from around the region, spread amongst the art and beautiful grounds of Terra Studios! Family friendly, arts and crafts, music circles, and food and drinks. Free Admission.

Thurs. Sept 15 Girls Night Out 4:30 PM TO 8:00 PM Broadway & University Streets Siloam Springs Bring your mothers, sisters, daughters, cousins, and friends to this quarterly downtown shopping event! Merchants all over historic downtown Siloam Springs offer refreshments, specials, and door prizes for this night only!

Fri., Sept. 23

“I SEE YOU” by Meagan Ruffing Book Launch 10am Rollie Pollie in Bentonville 15% off purchase at Rollie Pollie (excluding sale items) when you buy “I See You” at the event!

Sat., Sept 24

Grand Opening Pigtails and Crewcuts in Rogers $2 off all haircuts at both locations and much more family fun all day long! Friends of the Poor Walk/RunBentonville 7:15 AM - 10:00 www.svdpusa.net/walk/1450 Walkers and runners join together in this family-friendly event to show solidarity with the poor. Entry fees are donation-based. Register on line at www.svdpusa.net/walk/1450. Registration will open the day of the race at 7:15, and the walk/run will begin at 8 am. Breakfast will be provided by the Knights of Columbus after the walk.

Husband Father of 4

Entrepreneur

Volunteer Firefighter

Advocate Everyday

hero

by: Tiffany Snodgrass

y 5:30 a.m. the alarm is already going off, and that’s when my hero – and my husband – begins his day. Ben doesn’t have a superhero cape, super-strength or any other kind of magical power, but a typical day for him is a heroic adventure compared to most people. He starts his day in public service, serving as a firefighter and paramedic for the Bentonville Fire Department, and I, as the wife of someone who puts their life on the line every day for others, feel an extreme amount of pride, excitement, and fear every time he leaves to go on a call. Of course, even on uneventful days, Ben shows his generosity and open heart. He is known at the Fire Department as their unofficial “tour guide” when they’re not on call, and he takes great joy in getting to share with children from field trips the grand tour of the fire trucks, safety considerations, and what firefighters actually do. If this was all Ben did, he would already be considered a hero, but it’s just the beginning.

44 September 2016

In 2013, we unexpectedly lost our oldest son. Grief hit us in waves, and by waves, I mean a ton of bricks. Picking up the pieces of what life would be like next for us seemed unimaginable for me, but my husband channeled his loss into something so beautiful. He knew that we needed to actively create a life of legacy and honor, not only to celebrate the wonderful life of our son, Brandon, but our other children, Brooklynn, Brynlee and Brody, and our grandson, Luke. The following spring, Ben told me he was going to buy a laundromat. Of course, I thought he was crazy. This was never something we had planned, but my husband had a vision of using a laundromat as a tool to serve the community, and we purchased one in an older part of town. In the months after opening the laundromat, Ben decided we needed to intentionally partner to help the hurting and homeless in our community. He wanted our workforce to be those who really needed a hand up, not a hand out – single parents and those who were living in homeless shelters. He was passionate about helping people move into jobs that offered a workable wage while they improved their lives. He ended up partnering with Souls Harbor NWA, and began washing all the homeless men’s linens each week for them. Soon after, he partnered with Lingle Middle School students to organize a quarter drive to help provide laundry services for those who would not be able to afford it otherwise. Having clean laundry and bedding adds dignity to a person’s life, but Ben did not stop there. He chose to get to know his clients and workforce, many of whom have become his greatest friends, and who we now consider family. In time, Ben began cooking at Souls Harbor for the men and their families. He eventually hired a man who, just the year before, had been on the receiving end of Ben’s paramedic skills because of a drug overdose. This man, now a year into recovery, has a new lease on life at Souls Harbor, and has been able to experience the redemption inherent in coming to work for Ben, who had seen him at his worst, and could now see him at his best. This last year, Ben was nominated for the Board

of Directors for Souls Harbor NWA, which was incredible, because he truly loves those men. The greatest honor, though, came when that same board asked us if they could name their Memorial Orchard after our son who passed away. The Memorial Orchard is a space where families can sponsor trees, planted to feed the hungry in our community, to memorialize their loved ones. Today, the space is called the Brandon Snodgrass Memorial Orchards, and it is a beautiful place of respite, healing, and new life. This past spring, we had the ribbon cutting. One of the most touching moments was watching Brandon’s son, our grandson, play in the area these trees were planted, and he and Ben (his Pop Pop) being able to plant together, knowing that as the trees grow, Luke will grow. I am proud of our son, and I am proud of my husband for choosing to serve through grief. Our latest endeavor came to us from University of Arkansas education students, who approached us about starting a new program at the laundromat called “Laundry and Literacy.” Once a month, teaching students come down to the laundromat, and we provide free laundry service to the community while children--usually bored to tears by the long hours at the laundromat--can read with a teaching student. The students even started a community library for the children to be able to take books home! Who would have ever thought that when Ben had the vision to buy a laundromat, it would become a place for education, family, community, and life change? Amazingly, Ben has managed to balance both jobs, volunteer work, and his family. Ben still works at the Bentonville Fire Department, and was even given the “Firefighter of the Year Award” for his dedication and service. When he is not working at the department, he is at the laundromat, or taking our children to their ball games, gymnastics sessions, choir practices, and youth groups. He has actively volunteered with all of our kids’ organizations in some capacity or another, from cooking to transporting to providing resources for their events. In fact, Ben is known as “the cool dad” – the guy who plans our kids’ surprise trips each summer break, makes last-minute ice cream runs at night, and who can handle all boo-boos, advice, and shopping. He is their hero, too. Of course, Ben has hard days, too. After he goes out on those calls where the outcome ends in heartbreak and tragedy, my hero still gets up and goes out the next day to do it all again. His life as a paramedic and firefighter is not about a job,

but a calling. He gets up every shift and puts on his boots and his smile, and is ready to take the next call. He is often the first face someone sees during a trauma; the first calm voice, the one to make the quick decisions – and he handles it gracefully. Honestly, when I met this wonderful man 17 years ago, I had no idea the adventures he would take me on. The first year we dated was long distance, which is always difficult, but he would come up with creative ways to call me from pay phones, write cards to the colleges I worked at, or find other special ways to surprise me. He has been and will be my greatest adventure. Ben is my best friend, my servant leader, and my every day hero.

TUTORING: RAISING CONFIDENCE AND UNDERSTANDING! BY DR. JENNIFER LAWSON, ACADEMIC AND LIFE COACH

TUTORING WORKS. STUDIES SHOW TUTORING CLOSES GAPS IN LEARNING.

A DIVISION OF LAWSON-COACHING.COM 479-444-1400

As an experienced educator and coach, I observe the frustration of parents and students who encounter the rigor and pace of today’s curriculm. More and more, parents are investing in tutoring to help their students meet the demand and increase their understanding of difficult material.

Recognize the Need • GRADES: Catch them before the hole is dug too deep! Keep a “weekly watch” on the online grade viewer! • AVOIDANCe: Resistance to studying, not

doing homework and increased complaining are indicators of lack of understanding.

• CONFERENCE: If the teacher is

recommending tutoring as a “stop the bleeding” strategy… follow up on her/his lead.

• Low Self-Esteem: High anxiety, worry over tests and a loss of interest are added signs for a need to ‘catch up’ on understanding levels.

Benefits of Tutoring • ONE ON ONE / PACE: Working with

students individually vs. group increases learning. Tutors can work at a student’s pace to assure understanding is secure before moving on.

• SPECIFIC:

Tutors address specific obstacles to learning. The one-on-one support can address questions that may not get asked in a classroom setting.

• STRONG FOUNDATION: Tutoring builds the necessary base of understanding for future learning. Ongoing learning that is dependent upon previous learning will show strength. Tutoring is preventative and proactive. Tutoring is one of the most effective strategies in learning and provides a strong return on your investment and your student’s future. It contains powerful advantages, not only now with less stress and better grades, but also contributes toward college and life goals.

Make this school year different. For the struggling learner, add tutoring and clear the way for better grades. 46 September 2016

www.peekaboonwa.com

EMBRACE YOUR SWEATS The athleisure trend isn’t going anywhere! Layer up when the temps drop with an oversized sweatshirt, leggings and sneakers. Pieces shown: BB Dakota, Amanda Uprichard & Kaanas.

PLAID IS (STILL) RAD Plaid isn’t going anywhere - so embrace it! We love easy, throwon pieces like this plaid dress that’s equally cute with booties or sneakers. Dress by Glam, hat by Lovely Bird

RECONSTRUCTED & RAW DENIM Your favorite jeans are now back and better than ever in distressed, uneven and even tattered styles. Jeans by Citizens of Humanity.

WILD, WILD WEST Lariats & bolos are THE jewelry piece to own this fall - add them to a basic tee to feel instantly 'put together.’ Top by Rails, necklace by Jenny Bird.

IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS Bell sleeves? Yes, please! (and the longer, the better!) Add extra oomph to your outfit by adding a top or dress with lace-up details. Dress by Vintage Havana, choker by Jenny Bird.

Downtown Bentonville 116 W. Central Ave. |

479.224.9295

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Young Artists Class

» Awesome Architecture: 10:30 a.m. to noon » Wild About Art, beginning Oct.15, 22, and 29, 10:30 a.m. to noon

Studio Squad

» Architecture, beginning Sept. 15, 6:30 to 8 p.m. » Painting, beginning Oct.13, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Preschool Art Class

» Color Mix-Up, beginning Sept. 14, 1 to 2:15 p.m. » Sensory Art, beginning Oct. 12, 1 to 2:15 p.m.

Homeschool Friday Fun

» Think Like an Architect, beginning Sept. 9, 2 to 3:30 p.m. » Creature Feature, beginning Oct. 14, 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Homeschool Tour and Art

Art Smart Fall Programs Starting up at Crystal Bridges By: Linda DeBerry

Art, nature, and architecture: those are the three “pillars” of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. This fall, the museum is offering a line-up of educational programs for kids of all ages exploring each of those themes. Home in on Architecture: Architecture is the place where art meets physics and math. What better way could there be for kids to stretch those mental muscles while letting their imaginations out to play? The museum is offering brand new architecture-focused classes this fall for children ages 6 to 13. The classes meet once a week for three weeks and give students a grasp on the basics of architecture. Students will explore the work of Crystal Bridges architect Moshe Safdie and Frank Lloyd Wright through guided tours of the museum buildings and the Frank Lloyd Wright house on the museum grounds. Then they’ll take their skills back to the studio to imagine and design their own structures. Just for Preschoolers: Kids are never too young to learn about and enjoy art! Crystal Bridges’ popular Preschool Art Classes return this fall to offer fun, enriching programs for children ages 3 to 5 with an adult. Each guided session offers engaging activities for preschoolers and parents or caregivers to enjoy together while exploring themes related to visual art. September’s class will focus on color mixing, and October’s

» Create Your Story, Oct. 12, 1 to 3 p.m. Register online at CrystalBridges. org, by calling 479.657.2335, or at the Guest Services desk in the museum’s main lobby.

will be a please-touch session about using all our senses to make art. Good, messy fun will be had by all! Classes for Kids: Studio Squad is Crystal Bridges monthly artmaking series for kids ages 11 to 13. Each three-week class includes both gallery exploration and hands-on time in the museum studios. Museum educators help get students started and then let them create their work in their own unique way. All materials are provided. In addition to September’s class focusing on architecture, there is an October class focusing on painting. Students will gain inspiration from artworks in Crystal Bridges’ collection and then experiment with a variety of paint media to create their own art. For younger children, there’s the Young Artists Class series, taking off in October with Wild About Art. Participants will roam the permanent collection galleries with a museum educator to seek out examples of lions, tigers, bears, and other wild creatures in the artworks. Then they will go back to the studio to create creatures real or imagined in paint, clay, and other media. This three-week program begins October 15.

Backto Homeschool: Homeschoolers are headed back to school, too! Crystal Bridges offers Homeschool Family Fun, an art enrichment series for homeschool students in two age categories: 6 to 8 and 9 to 12. Another monthly, threeweek program, Homeschool Family Fun tackles a new subject each session, including Think Like an Architect beginning September 9; and Creature Feature, which explores the natural world in art, starting October 14. Don’t have three weeks to commit? Then sign up for the museum’s Homeschool Tour and Art: Create Your Story, from 1 to 3 p.m. on October 12. This free program includes gallery and studio time and brings together storytelling, writing, and the visual arts in a fun, cross-disciplinary way. And More! In addition to classes, there are other ways to get children engaged with art and learning at Crystal Bridges. Join our Gallery Guides for a free, drop-in Family Tour every Saturday at 1 p.m.; or visit the museum’s studios on Saturdays and Sundays for Drop-in Artmaking from 1 to 4 p.m. These are informal

sessions in which museum educators guide guests through a do-it-yourself art project. It’s free and all materials are provided. In October, Crystal Bridges will open a new temporary exhibition: The Art of American Dance, featuring artworks that highlight both social and professional dancing from 1830 to the recent past. With showstopping works by artists such as John Singer Sargent, Mary Cassatt, Robert Henri, William Merritt Chase, Nick Cave, and Faith Ringgold, The Art of American Dance is sure to sweep you off your feet!

You can learn more about Crystal Bridges exhibitions, educational programs, tours and more online at CrystalBridges.org.

W hat I L earned F rom 3 0 Day s of

No Yelling by Allie Casazza

{ } L

et me be perfectly honest with you before I even start writing this - I’m a yeller. I started out my motherhood with the promise not to yell, but quickly broke that promise. To be clear, I’m not talking about verbal abuse here. I’m talking about raising my voice to make a point, reacting out of my anger or frustration. I came to the conclusion that yelling is a normal part of motherhood and a piece of who I am. Plus, when a Cuban girl and an Italian boy get married and have four kids in five years, it’s a loud house, and yelling is essential to survival. That’s what I told myself; that’s what I believed, until a few months ago.

I remember exactly where I was standing in our tiny two-bedroom condo that rainy day. We had just moved from sunny Southern California to beautiful, but very different Northwest Arkansas. We were living in this tiny place for six months to give us time to become familiar with the area and find a rental house. It was stressful, tense, and incredibly frustrating. I was adjusting to living with no familiar people around me, the kids missed their grandparents, and I was waiting for the benefits of moving away to kick in. I felt a little hopeless.

I stood between the front door and the staircase and yelled at him. I yelled so loud and so hard that I felt it in my stomach. When I met his eyes, everything changed. My small, but strong-willed five-year-old looked back at me with a little bit of fear and a lot of desperation in his eyes. I could tell he wanted to say something, but knew he’d be met with more

52 September 2016

screaming from the tyrant who had taken over his mommy. Right there in that humbling moment of motherhood failure, a wave of realization swept over me. This wasn’t what I wanted for my kids, or myself. Over the next few days, I thought a lot about my habit of yelling. I had tried to break it in the past without success. What was it that was so difficult about this? I felt that I needed to be consistent. I decided to do a thirty day challenge with myself and cut yelling out completely. When you have a blog and a following, you have automatic, heavy accountability, so I shared my challenge on social media, the blog, and started Periscoping my progress. I found myself quickly surrounded by other moms who struggled with yelling. Some were already working through books on the subject, some were in denial of how bad it was. I felt more determined than ever to complete the thirty days. If I could do this, maybe they would, too.

Here’s what I learned from my thirty days of no yelling.

1. Yelling is my answer to almost every frustration in my life.

2. Yelling doesn’t accomplish anything good.

3. Yelling damages relationships.

Once I made the decision not to yell, my eyes were opened to how often I turn to screams as a solution to problems during the day. It felt like I was sucking in a shout every five minutes at first.

Since I was suddenly aware of how often I yelled, when I would start and then stop myself, I began to notice my kids’ reactions. Sometimes it was fear, other times it was almost an annoyance. Their faces read, “Oh, great. Mom’s freaking out again, how can I get through it this time...” The thing is, when I yell, I am trying to accomplish something. I want them to listen to me, respect me, and do what they need to do. Through this challenge I learned that none of that was being accomplished. In fact, just the opposite was. My kids respected me less, they shut down instead of listening to me, and if they did do whatever I was yelling about, it was done out of fear of me or out of just getting me to shut up.

This might seem obvious to you. When I type it, it’s obvious to me, yet I was yelling all the time... so, apparently it’s not obvious enough and is worth saying. When I stopped yelling, my relationship with my kids got better incredibly quickly. I noticed my 7-year-old daughter asking to spend time with me, wanting to talk to me and tell me secrets. I noticed my boys wanting me to go outside with them and kick the soccer ball around. It was like they couldn’t get enough of me. During the times when I would start to yell out of habit, it was almost like I could physically see my children pull away from me. Yelling severs closeness; I know that for a fact.

{ } I have my off days, my weak moments, and my humanity, of course, but I have a new perspective.

I was ashamed of how often I had to stop myself. For the first week, I messed up occasionally. Not because I just couldn’t take it and had to yell at someone, but because yelling had become such a deep-seated habit for me that it would just come out without a thought!

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4. Yelling makes my husband shut down.

5. Yelling opens the door to anxiety in my home.

6. Yelling makes me an unhappy person.

I did this challenge with my kids in mind, but it impacted my marriage in a very deep way too. I found myself having to hold back the most around my husband. It hurts me to admit this, but I noticed how often I get irritated with him and push him away with my words. Far more often than I’d like to tell you, I found myself biting my tongue with words like “Just do something right!” or “Can you please just take care of one thing yourself?!” The weight of how painful these words are really hung from my heart over the first couple of weeks. Just like with the kids, I saw my husband’s face change when I started to yell. It seemed as if he was a machine that was turned off, a robot who ran out of battery life. He just completely shuts down when I yell. I’ve always been thankful that Brian rarely even yells back at me when I get like that, but having noticed his face, I think this is worse. Over time, as I got better, I saw him moving closer to me in every way. He was happier, lighter, more loving toward me, and wanting to talk to me more. Alongside working on my yelling, I started being more physically affectionate with my husband throughout the day, because touch is his love language. Not yelling gave way to more improvements that didn’t even seem hard to make because I was already conquering the hardest one for me.

When I stopped yelling, I was suddenly very aware of all the effects yelling has on my family. I noticed my little girl twiddling her thumbs before she came up to me with a question. I noticed my husband feeling around for my mood before bringing up an idea. I felt like a monster. Even though I really just yelled out of what I felt was necessity and knee-jerk reactions to frustrating moments, it was enough to cause anxiety in the people I love dearly. That broke my heart. As time went on, their trust in my new-found calmness grew and the anxiety fled. I never want to go back to the way things were. I never want to be the cause of anything but love and peace in my home!

The biggest surprise I found in this challenge was how yelling affected me. I found that I felt lighter, happier, and just less cranky in general throughout the week.

{ } I didn’t let myself give up because of an extra tough day, or how I was feeling- I pushed through without excuses, and it worked.

The times in the beginning when I would yell out of habit, I noticed it put me in a terrible mood and really darkened my day. I realized a lot of the time when I was in a bad mood was directly related to how I had treated my family that morning.

It has been six months since I completed my 30 days of no yelling challenge, and I can honestly say my habits are staying pretty strong. I have my off days, my weak moments, and my humanity, of course, but I have a new perspective. I really believe what caused the true change was being ruthlessly consistent for a full 30 days. I didn’t let myself give up because of an extra tough day, or how I was feeling- I pushed through without excuses, and it worked. If you struggle with yelling, don’t let guilt weigh you down for one more second. Get up, take a deep breath, and decide to be the mom you want to be, starting today.

Allie Casazza is a blogger, author and inspirational speaker. Her passion is helping her fellow women find hope and light when chaos has stolen their motherhood. She believes motherhood and humor should always go hand-in-hand, otherwise you’ll never get through it. Allie is the wife of Brian, her 7th grade algebra partner turned sweetheart. They have four small kids who were born in five years, and they’re SoCal natives living in the beautiful Northwest corner of Arkansas. You can find Allie writing about living with intention and a lot less stuff over at her blog, The Purposeful Housewife.

Meet

Austin I Written by: Krystal Royce • Edited by: Jennifer Bever

turn my head just in time to see a small dark head submerge into the water. A smile passes over my lips as I watch three long, tan limbs navigate an invisible course. We had gathered to celebrate Austin’s sixth birthday. It was difficult to imagine that just six years ago I had walked into a hospital room, picked up this sweet, dark-haired baby, and my heart was changed forever with the love of this tiny soul. It was even harder to imagine that, on that day, I’d had no idea what to expect from this little boy. His mom, my longtime best friend, had explained to me that he would be born with only one hand and a partial arm due to developmental complications in-utero. With his ten tiny toes and five tiny fingers, he was still perfect to us. There was never any doubt about that. I’m ashamed to admit, though, that I couldn’t help but wonder how he would navigate all the obstacles that so clearly lay ahead of him.

A little more than a year later, it was Christmas time, and I hadn’t seen Austin since his first birthday in July. He was one and a half, and a little man with big energy. After spending all this time with him, I rarely noticed his handicap, and at the same time I failed to notice the advantages he had gained from it. As I sat on the living room floor and encouraged Austin to throw the small bouncy ball he was holding in his hand at me, I wasn’t gearing up for a big catch. There was this tiny little man in front of me, and when that ball came hurtling full force at my head, it dawned on me: Austin was surrounded by a “tough love” support system that never allowed his handicap to be a crutch. They weren’t cruel about things – rather, very supportive. If helping him was required, they did it, while giving him space to navigate the task before him whenever they could. Occasionally, I was reminded by Brandie to allow Austin to overcome his own obstacles. It’s not that she enjoyed taking this stance, but Austin has been blessed with a mother who realizes that if he is going to thrive, not only survive, sometimes things are going to get tough. Reslience is one of the most important

56 September 2016

skills you can teach a child, after all. Brandie was amazing, helping Austin understand that, occasionally, hard truths would have to be handed down with soft words and warm hugs. When I caught that ball, a tiny thud in my hands, my eyes opened to how life with Austin would be. For me, it would be a struggle of standing by, wanting to reach out for this little man and help him in every way, but keeping my feet planted and watching as he overcomes the tasks of a normal childhood. At three, Austin wasn’t able to do everything, a fact I was again reminded of as I threw out ideas for birthday and Christmas presents that he would clearly not be able to use. By this point, he was so functional at navigating the world around him that I often forgot that some things simply required two hands. As I was forgetting this, though, Austin was beginning to realize he was different. On his third birthday he confronted his mom with this question, “When will I be like all the other kids, and grow the rest of my arm?” With all the love and wisdom a mother can gather, Brandie thought carefully before replying, “Son, God made you special. You will never have an arm like everyone else, but we can get you an arm that is kind of like a robot.” This seemed to quiet his mind. After all, what little kid isn’t fascinated by robots?

Brandie never liked the idea of pushing the idea of getting a prosthetic on Austin. Her main concern has always been that he knows he is loved and accepted for who he is and the way God built him. It wasn’t until several months after the initial question that Austin began to ask more frequently about when he would receive his “robotic arm.” I would say this was due to the fact that other kids were beginning to notice the difference, and some would ask him relentlessly what happened to his arm. Always one to entertain, Austin would continually spin some new story about some wild adventure he’d taken part in that resulted with him losing the arm. By now, Brandie knew it was time to get the ball rolling. She got into contact with a friend from high school whose son had been born with a similar condition. The boy had recently received a prosthetic hand, and his mother was more than happy to give Brandie the contact information of Mrs. Mary Beth Hatch. Mrs. Hatch is the program director of Harrison Junior High’s EAST (Environmental and Spatial Technology) program. After learning about Austin’s arm, Mrs. Hatch assured Brandie that her students would love the opportunity to build a robotic arm for Austin. As promised, the HJHS’s EAST program’s work began at the very beginning of the following school year. The prototype of the arm was built sight unseen. Through picture messaging, the HJHS EAST team was able to obtain the measurements needed to fit the arm to Austin. They also recruited the help of a specialist named Dr. Drew. The EAST team printed the different parts for the arm, while Dr. Drew built the harness that would help to support prosthetic. The fingers on the arm are fully robotic, with a special glove that goes on his right hand. This glove contains sensors that are activated by the muscle movement of the right hand, allowing for the robotic movement of the fingers to the left prosthetic hand. The movement of the elbow is triggered by a tension system. When the prototype had been completed, there was a special presentation at

Austin’s school. The EAST team came and helped educate not only Austin about his new arm, but his fellow classmates as well. This was also an opportunity to fit the arm to Austin, and blueprint the adjustments that would be needed. Austin is an incredible kid, and not just because of his resilience. Austin’s kindergarten teacher frequently uses the term “bucket filler” to describe him. Basically, when Austin sees another kid who is sad, shy, or just seems to have an emotionally “empty bucket,” he comes to them with his special brand of love, humor, and strength, and he fills their bucket. I’m happy to see that the EAST team, while still making adjustments and refinements to ensure proper fit and optimal function for Austin, is working to fill Austin’s bucket in return. All the hard work, time, and research these young people have dedicated to Austin’s arm is more than just the competition of a project-they are changing Austin’s life by opening his world up to new opportunities and adventures. They are filling the bucket of an amazing and deserving little man, and for that, we are so thankful.

{

But, there I was, living in hiding, wondering how I would take care of my five children.

}

starting over

sat there, alone, frightened for the lives of my children. I never once in my life thought I could somehow end up in a shelter; I mean, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where really dysfunctional people end up, right? I was raised in a great, stable, Christian home. I was the 4.0 GPA student athlete, headed to play college basketball at a variety of choice schools. But, there I was, living in hiding, wondering how I would take care of my five children. In the years before, we had been living in India as missionaries, serving the poor widows and orphans. I was homeschooling my children, leading a team of adults in language learning and ministry training. I was living out all that I knew the Lord had for me, the years of passion and burden for those living in such dark places were worth it. I was ready to give my life for these people. We had sold all our possessions to go live among the poorest of the poor, the forgotten ones in North India. I was honored, humbled, and glad to be there. Then, tragedy struck. I had no idea that the man I was married to was

By: Mindy Watkins

a criminal. Sure, I knew of his adulterous affairs and frequent sins against me as his wife. It was often a painful, hard marriage. Yet, somehow, I kept it to myself and kept thinking it would be the last time; I just knew God had a plan and I felt we needed to stay married to fulfill His call in our lives. So, I never told anyone about the things he would do to hurt me, to abuse me in a variety of fashions on a regular basis. Through a series of surreal events, ones unimaginable unless lived through, I found out that he had been raping and molesting the very people I was there to help serve. Frantic and overcome with fear, sadness, anger, and turmoil, my children and I ran for our lives. He started threatening to kill me if I told what I knew. Over the next several months, the horror, trauma, and pain only increased all the more with the finding out of other countless terrible things I had never known. The level of evil, the lies, the manipulation I had been under all those years was excruciating to find out about. I learned of outrageous abuse toward women and girls in

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starting over

secret, all by using God’s name as a way into people’s lives to hurt them in this most brutal of ways. The emotional trauma my five children were undergoing wretched me daily. They were dealing with nightmares, fear, and chronic stomach aches due to anger, sadness, confusion, and seemingly unending other stressors. As a single mother with no support, this was no task I could handle alone. My children ranged from ages two to 11, one of which has special needs. All were traumatized on such grand levels, so they needed a lot of love, tender care and time for healing. We moved to Siloam Springs in February of 2009 completely broken. I had no way to support my children, no way to keep them safe, no family here to help me, no child support, and no job. We were in utter despair. The Lord knew all along His way of providing, so we took it literally one day at a time. We spent many days in shelters, other days eating with the homeless, and a lot of hours just being together with no distractions, no television, no money for any entertainment; we had each other and that was enough. Most people are never in a situation in which Jesus is truly and quite literally all that they have. I was desperate for the Lord’s help. There’s hardly a way to share how much fear we lived in, yet I had to move forward to love my children and care for them. Nursing school to become a registered nurse is no small task for anyone. Yet, there I was, commuting to school for three years while raising five beautiful, yet brokenhearted children all by myself, using student loans to at least pay for gas and some bare necessities. It’s only by His strength and provision that I became an RN. It truly makes no sense in human terms how I made it through such a rigorous curriculum while dealing with countless hours in counselors’ offices in the evenings, prayer rooms, church, and anywhere I could take them to foster inner healing. I’m sure I studied some, but I don’t remember doing that a whole lot. My focus had to be on them, as the awful events we had been through were enough to cause lifelong issues and pain. I’m so very thankful that I made it through school, so thankful for the years of healing the Lord has given us, and so honored to be raising these five blessings. We are on the other side of that bleak, dark night. That night lasted for a long, long time. There were days upon days that I would cry out for justice for my children, for the others affected by his evil. I prayed and prayed for our freedom and new life. It was all I could do on

60 September 2016

many occasions just to breathe for that day alone. Yet, I found Him in the suffering. That is the only one thing that got us through. He is there in the suffering. I had known Him all my life, was living for Him all those years, yet grew ever so much closer when there was no one, no things made by man, no external aide but Him and Him alone. A wonderful story of contrast is that although eight years ago we landed in Siloam Springs broken and poor, just a few years went by and now my children all are free. Last September they all were given new names and bear my name now of Watkins. They each received a new identity with a new birth certificate. It was a most wonderful day for my family. I now have the honor of helping others who have been through trauma, abuse, or any kind of brokenness. My children do the same. We live for today, loving as much as we can… today. There is hope. There is healing. There is life to be lived. Through serious emotional, spiritual, mental, and physical healing, we now can give that hope and encouragement to others. I tell women that they can do it, that they were made for this, that they were planted in that home and as the mother of those children for a reason. They are good enough, strong enough, smart enough to get free, to get safe, to start life anew. There is a path that is lit if we only would stop and look and listen and believe on the One who can save and heal. I love giving that hope to others. Regardless of the pain, the lack of support, the level of trauma, I want women to know they can do it. I’m passionate about this, about giving hope to others; I live a radical life and don’t plan on changing that any time soon.

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Paper & Thread Studio

% craft.sew.create.inspire. by: Frances Wilson

sk a local elementary school kid if they can name all 151 Pokemon – or, better yet, recite every single word to Frozen while simultaneously crushing “Paper Toss” on their tablets and mentally recalibrating their Minecraft strategy – and you’ll likely be amazed at the modern multitasking skills they display. Ask them when the last time they made their own rocket ship, or wrote their own play, or painted a masterpiece on their own time was, though, and you might meet more than a few blank stares. The thing is, while multitasking has been cemented as a clear hallmark of our world, ‘single-tasking’ and creativity are more important than ever. Kids (and adults!) need to do quality, immersive projects that simultaneously stimulate the brain and give it a rest from enforced inattention. Paula at Paper & Thread, a local craft haven in Fayetteville, creates a space for kids of almost any age to learn to sew, paint, collage, and do a medley of crafts. “When my daughter and her friends were about nine years old,” Paula said, “I started teaching them to sew and craft on my dining room table. Gradually, I added more and more students, eventually establishing the Paper & Thread Studio in 2010 and transforming a detached space in my home into a quaint place to make crafts, teach sewing, create collages, and more!” The inspiration to teach a younger generation craft art came from her own grandmother and mother, who taught her how to sew when she was seven years old. Because of their attention, she was able to make all of her own clothes throughout high school, and a love of art – especially fashion – was born that led her to major in commercial art, with a coinciding degree in fashion design and merchandising. Today, she has turned her personal attention and inspirations more to the art of collage, but teaches kids at Paper & Thread all of the crafts she’s learned along the way.

62 September 2016

Of course, Paula’s own art isn’t her only source of inspiration. She talks about how spending time with kids and encouraging their creativity sparks excitement and satisfaction in her life, saying, “I love seeing the kids’ faces light up when they have mastered hand-sewing – even the first time they are able to tie a knot in the thread! Honestly, that’s a huge deal. Seeing my students accomplish a project and show pride in their work fills my heart every week.” Several of her students, in fact, tell her often that Paper & Thread is the best place they’ve ever been, and that they never want to leave their classes. Because of that, she and they believe that Paper & Thread is truly a special place. This uniqueness and obvious passion has generated an amazingly enthusiastic response to the studio. While Paula began with four students, she now has 40+ regular students in her after-school program, and this summer will have 100+ kids in her summer sessions. With all this positivity, what comes next? “Currently, I feel excited about this upcoming fall semester, both for any new enrollment and my returning students. Further than that, my hopes for the studio are to continue attracting new students, and see my current students flourish – whether it’s in sewing, journaling or just being creative. I tell my students to make art, everyday, for just ten minutes.”

Anyone who is interested in Paper & Thread’s class schedule and further information may consult their Facebook page, https://www.facebook. com/Paper-Thread-Studio-413568732072392/ Upcoming classes are for ages 5 and up, except for Pre-School Art Class, which is ages 4-5, and Private and Group sewing lessons, which are for ages 9 and up. Classes are as follows: After-School Classes September-May • 3:15-5:15 p.m. Pre-School Art Class Beginning in Sept. (Wednesday) • 9:00-10:30 a.m. A Spring Break in the Studio March 2017 American Girl Doll sewing class Fall/Winter 2016-2017 • Saturday Holiday in the Studio Fall/Winter 2016 • Saturday Private and group sewing lesson Year round Birthday Parties Year round

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The kinesioTAPE Advantage

For Olympic Athletes, Paralympians… and Great Kids! by: Cassie Nolan Children’s Therapy TEAM Occupational Therapist

was recently asked about the purpose of the brightly colored tape on the skin of several Olympic and Paralympic athletes. In the health profession we call this “super stretchy tape constructed of cotton and elastic fibers” by a simpler name: Kinesio Tape. It has applications not only in the world of sports medicine, but also in my own world of pediatric therapy.

I love collaborating with members of our PT TEAM. Left: PT’s Alyssa Baldridge, Amber Lee, and Ashton Witt attended a Kinesio Tape training in Dallas.

Athletes use Kinesio Tape for multiple reasons, such as stabilizing a frequently used shoulder. The same taping application can be used for a child with Down Syndrome who has low muscle tone and needs extra input to stabilize her shoulder while she crawls or plays with toys. Kinesio Tape can also relieve pain by promoting the draining of fluid from an injured area. The “magic” of Kinesio Tape stems from how it is applied. I heavily rely on my training in anatomy, physiology and the musculoskeletal system every time I use Kinesio Tape. For example, where I first apply the Kinesio Tape to the skin and the direction I stretch the tape really matters. One direction will facilitate movement, while the opposite direction inhibits movement. This has many wonderful applications in pediatric therapy, such as helping a child develop better posture control or addressing pain in joints and tendons. After I incorporated Kinesio Tape as a component of my treatment plan for 11-year-old Steven to address toe walking, I laughed when he asked me to also put tape on his arm to help his basketball shot. Steven loves sports! When kids know that part of their therapy also helps world-class athletes, they can’t help but feel stronger and more courageous. As a therapist, I strive to provide the best, most effective treatment for kids to have success meeting their therapy goals. However, an even greater goal is to help kids build the strength and courage to win “gold medals” in their most important contests…THEIR LIVES!

Cassie Nolan holds a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Central Arkansas. She was initially introduced to Kinesio Tape applications during her field work at Children’s Therapy TEAM as a graduate student under the supervision of Occupational Therapist Julie Marvin. After becoming a licensed therapist, she honed her Kinesio Tape skills through training with Pam Samaniego, a certified Kinesio Tape instructor and physical therapist. In her work with children with special needs, she holds strong to her favorite quote by Olympian Scott Hamilton, “The only disability in life is a bad attitude.”

NWAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

ONLY Faith-Based Program Coordinator for Pediatric Therapy Warm-Water Pediatric Therapy Pools Constraint Induced Movement Therapy Comprehensive Family Support TEAM Exclusive Pediatric Aquatic Center VitalStim Therapy TEAM Clinic-Based Licensed Orthotic Provider Augmentative & Alternative Communication Evaluations Clinic-Sponsored Financial Hardship Program Heroes for Kids Recreation Equipment Program Nationally Board Certified Pediatric Specialist (PT) TEAMworks Nonprofit Global Outreach

An inspiring choice for your child!

Call us at 521-TEAM or visit us at www.ChildrensTherapyTEAM.com

HerHes Among Us born to be a hero Story by: Marisha Gardisser Photos by: BC Photography / brittanycoffeephotography.com

My husband, Matt, grew up helping his grandparents with their 1,000 acre cattle operation and meat processing plant, which meant that both an uncompromising work ethic and true selflessness came naturally to him. However, even at a young age Matt knew he wanted to do more. He wanted to serve his country. He wanted to fight for what he believed in, and was willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice if he was called to do so. The day after his 18th birthday, he signed his life over to Uncle Sam and joined the United States Army, a decision that was easy for him, but not one he was able to make alone. See, the year before, he met me. I remember that day like it was yesterday – the day I knew “love at first sight” existed, and the day all the plans I thought I had for my future changed forever. We hadn’t been dating long when he told me about his plans to join the military. I’m sad to say that although I was overcome with emotions, pride and excitement were nowhere near my heart. Very selfishly, I couldn’t understand how this boy I loved could want to leave me for long periods of time while seemingly putting his own life – and our life together – at risk. As I listened to him explain so passionately how he wanted to serve our country, fight for our freedoms and make something of himself that his children, children’s children and their children could be proud of, his dream soon became mine. Love knows no boundaries of youth, time, or distance. We were married in March on our high school spring break, and in May, two weeks after high school graduation, he was at Fort Benning, Georgia completing basic training and airborne school so that he could become an Airborne Infantryman. After graduation, we all filed into a room where they were handing out orders for all the graduates’ first duty

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station. It seemed like forever before we heard our name, “Private Gradisser,” and then...“Fort Wainwright, Alaska.” That’s right, ALASKA. 3,700 miles from our home, and all we had ever known. What had I gotten myself into?! But, we were in it for keeps, now... so, north to Alaska it was. The rush was on! Because of the MOS (military occupational specialty) he had chosen, deployment was inevitable. A mere 18 months after arriving in Alaska and being assigned to the 25th Infantry Division, he and thousands of other soldiers from Fort Wainwright were deployed to Iraq for a year-long tour. While deployed, he was located on a remote sub base (called a COP) which the soldiers built when they arrived in an abandoned college dorm. Because of the remote location, internet connectivity was anything but great, and regular mail took weeks to arrive. During the deployment, as with any military family, the worry over whether he was okay or not, or when I would hear from him next was constant. I kept my phone on my hip 24/7 with my ringer on LOUD. While deployed, he and his unit came under attack multiple times, and numerous soldiers sustained several injuries, but all returned home alive. A very long year after saying “See you later,” our now 2-yearold son and I welcomed home our soldier and HERO!

We were then re-assigned to the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment (Blackhorse) located at Fort Irwin, California – nothing better than one extreme to the next, after all! Fort Irwin is the National Training Center (AKA a middle-of-nowhere, hot, windy desert) where folks trained and prepared – on a monthly rotation – other units and soldiers set to deploy in the near future. Fort Irwin also has one of the few mounted cavalry units still in existence, where the last year of Matt’s time was spent serving as the stable foreman.

the local volunteer fire department to continue helping and serving others. Most recently, in June, he was hired on with our local police department and over the next couple months will be training to become a police officer.

After seven years in the army, two duty stations, multiple moves and one deployment later, we decided to return home to Arkansas. We wanted our two boys to have the small town, country lifestyle that we both had and loved growing up. Matt was very thankful to have a job lined up, which he began immediately after returning home; sadly, many veterans returning home after serving our country don’t have this luxury. Because the job wasn’t in the line of work he had been accustomed to, he joined

When most (me included) would be running for the hills, Matt willingly signs up to serve during the scariest of times, and is willing to do whatever he’s called to do. He has a passion for serving our country and protecting our community. Away from work, he is always helping others, from pulling people out of the ditch in the winter, to helping an elderly man load his wheelchair into his car trunk. Matt is my hero, and I am so proud to call him my husband and best friend!

A Few of Our

Favorite Things... Dock A Tot

dockatot.com This versatile, portable bed can be used to help make tummy time fun and comfortable, or it can be used as a little lounging seat for toddlers watching morning cartoons. The DockATot can be opened up for extra room for growing babies, or can be purchased in multiple sizing. The high bumper walls make the DockATot a safe place to set baby down when you need both hands, or when trying to co-sleep safely and worry free. Changing diapers is no longer an issue, as the DockATot is both portable, safe, and features a machine washable cover!

Missy’s Monkeys

etsy.com/shop/missysmonkeys Everyone loves a unique, personal, thoughtful gift, and these sock monkeys from Missy’s Monkeys are the perfect thing! Because these cute, handmade sock monkeys come in so many different patterns and personalities, they’re a wonderful gift for any occasion and age! From Wonder Woman, Flash, Superman, Harry Potter, and sports teams galore, there is a monkey for everyone! Whether it’s a graduation gift (pre-school through collegiate!), office desk buddy, party favor or just a cute dorm decor present, Missy’s Monkeys are our go-to gift for all occasions!

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The design of the DockATot simulates the safe, comfortable environment of the mother’s womb, making the bed an easy transition for newborns who have trouble falling asleep in a crib. We love that the DockATot makes sleeping overnight away from home so easy. Instead of hauling a portable crib or playpen, the DockATot is lightweight and comes with a handle for easy carrying!

Easy Peasie - Natural Veggie Blend easypeasie.com

It is an age-old question that almost every parent struggles with at one time or another. How can we get our kids to eat more vegetables? Maybe those green, healthy “little trees” are something we come to love over time, but kids just don’t seem to want to eat anything that doesn’t come processed, cheesy, or fried. Easy Peasie food blends are perfect for picky eaters. They are virtually undetectable, but still nutrient-dense. The veggie blends come from fresh vegetables that are thoroughly dehydrated, and then formed into a fine powder – perfect for sprinkling

Undercover Waterwear

undercoverwaterwear.com

Hip City Sak

hipcitysak.com Hip City Saks aren’t just fanny packs for little girls. They are hip bags on a mission. These cute, fashionable bags inspire girls to be independent, express themselves, make decisions on their own, and feel empowered. By holding their own things that mom would normally carry in her purse, young girls get to experience being independent and responsible for their own items.

If you or your daughter feels uncomfortable wearing a traditional swimsuit, try something a little more modest than a regular onepiece. The Undercover Waterwear line offers swimwear that could also double as athletic gear! With styles such as swim dresses, swim pants or skirts, and long-sleeve, quarterlength, or short-sleeve swim tops, there are many options for girls who like a little more coverage under the sun! This swim line is perfect for those who burn easily, or simply enjoy more coverage while frolicking around by the beach or pool. Because of its diversity, one could go to the gym with Undercover Waterwear clothes on, work out and then go straight to the pool to cool down without ever having to change! We love that there are so many different styles, colors and patterns available so choosing what makes you look and feel your best doesn’t have to be narrowed down to one item!

Letting them pick out their very own color, style or print, gives them a sense of empowerment and let them realize the importance of expressing one’s unique individuality. Hip City Saks can also be customized with detachable bag and belt accessories. Because of the small bag size, she will have to decide which items are the most important to bring along with her. Also, because the comfortable bag sits right on her hip, she remains hands-free, and it’s almost impossible for her to lose it!

on a variety of food to make any meal instantly healthier! Also, what is healthy for the kids is healthy for you. We love to add some into our own smoothies! Eating veggies has never been easier!

Northwest Health System

Baby Friendly What the Baby Friendly Designation Means for Moms and Babies at Northwest Medical Center – Bentonville

others and newborns can reap many benefits from breastfeeding and skin to skin contact after birth.

Northwest Medical Center – Bentonville recently earned the Baby Friendly designation, said Deborah Neece, RN and family birthplace unit educator at the hospital. The hospital earned this international designation from the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, a global program sponsored by the World Health Organization and the United States Children’s Fund. The initiative encourages and recognizes hospitals and birthing centers that offer a high level of care for breastfeeding mothers and their babies. “Our staff has undergone extensive training and changed our policies and practices to adhere to the standards set forth by the World Health Organization,” Neece said. NMC- Bentonville honors “the golden hour,” which promotes the newborn staying in the room with his or her mother and father directly after birth, Neece said. Keeping the baby in the room with the mother increases the mother’s comfort level and confidence, explained Dana Hadaway, RN and obstetrics supervisor at NMC - Bentonville.

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“Skin to skin contact eases the infant’s transition to life outside the uterus,” she said. The golden hour also helps mothers notice feeding cues, Hadaway said. Babies are generally happier and less fussy. Lactation educators help mothers during the golden hour for the first breastfeeding, Hadaway said. It’s new for the mother and the baby, so the educator is there to offer help and reassurance. Neece explained that it can be difficult and frustrating during the first 24 hours.

For more information, go to www.northwesthealth.com/babies “We try to get the lactation educators in as soon as possible,” Neece said.

acting as a laxative for build up when the baby was in utero. It can also help regulate the newborn’s body temperature, Hadaway said.

For mothers, skin to skin and breastfeeding can help with the prevention of certain types of cancers, For the babies, breastfeeding can also provide a decreased risk of ear infections, bonding and stabilizing diabetes, SIDS, asthma and respiratory and heart rates, “Our staff has undergone childhood leukemia. Neece said. It can also help the mother with hemorrhage extensive training and Breastfeeding comes easily to prevention, Hadaway said. some mothers, but it is difficult changed our policies and for most women, Dr. Hannah Bonding with the baby and practices to adhere to the said. It can be rewarding once creating that relationship is the process is in place and one of the biggest benefits of standards set forth by the working. skin to skin and breastfeeding, said Dr. Todd Hannah, World Health Organization.” There are other options for obstetrics and gynecology mothers who can’t or choose - Deborah Neece, RN specialist at Lifespring not to breastfeed. The mother Women’s Healthcare. can hand express the milk and spoon or cup feed it to the baby, Neece said. “The baby and mom are together,” he said. Formula is another option. For babies, skin to skin and breastfeeding can help prevent childhood infections, because breast milk Dr. Hannah explained that there are also breast contains antibodies, Neece said. It can reduce the milk banks with donated breast milk, but they are risk of allergies and coat the stomach lining while mostly used for premature and NICU babies.

www.siloamwomenscenter.com

Kyle Thompson, DO, FACOG

Chad Hill, MD, FACOG

Natalie Eiland, DO

Siloam Springs Women’s Center Board Certified OB - GYN Specialists Serving Siloam Springs Regional Hospital

Focusing On: • Comprehensive OB Care & Delivery • Gynecological and Laparoscopic Surgery • Female Incontinence • Pelvic Pain • Pelvic Reconstruction • Minimally Invasive Outpatient Hysterectomy • In-Office Surgical Sterilization

Now Accepting New Patients Mary Williams, Nurse Practitioner Commercial Insurance • Medicare • Oklahoma, Arkansas & Missouri Medicaid

603-2 N. Progress Avenue, Suite 100, Siloam Springs 479.524.9312 Hours: Monday - Friday 8am to 5pm

At a

Glance

The New School (Pg. 25) thenewschool.org (479) 521-7037 Super Science (Pg. 55) (479) 444-0303 www.super-sci.com Trike Theatre (Pg. 59) (479) 464-5084 www.triketheatre.org

FAMILY FUN / ENTERTAINMENT

ARTS and MUSIC Crystal Bridges (Pg. 15) (479) 418-5700 crystalbridges.org Trike Theatre (Pg. 59) (479) 464-5084 triketheatre.org

BANKS First Security (Pg. 43) www.fsbank.com; www.onlyinark.com

CHILDCARE/NANNY SERVICES ABC Happy Kids Learning Academy (Pg. 51) (479) 202-5691 abchappykids.com Better Beginnings (Pg. 74) (800) 445-3316 arbetterbeginnings.com Mary’s Little Lambs Preschool (Pg. 47) (479) 273-1011

CLOTHING Clothes Mentor (Pg. 61) ClothesMentor.com/rogers Oh Baby Boutique (Pg. 41) (479) 254-2911 www.ohbabynwa.com Label (Pg. 48) (479) 224-9295

DENTIST My Village Ped Dentistry and Orthodontics myvillagesmiles.com (Pg. 69) Pediatric Dental Associates and Orthodontics (479) 582-0600 (Pg.37) Smile Shoppe Pediatric Dentistry (Pg. 12) (479) 631-6377 Rogers

DERMATOLOGY / SKIN CARE Advanced Dermatology / Skin Care Center (479) 268-3555 (Pg. 53) NWA Center for Plastic Surgery (Pg. 2) (479) 571-3100 nwacenterforplasticsurgery.com

EDUCATION/TRAINING

Lawson ‘Tutor’ Academic Coaching (Pg. 59) 479-444-1400 Mathnasium (Pg. 63) (479) 657-3000

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Crystal Bridges (Pg. 15) (479) 418-5700 Farmland Adventures (Pg. 35) FarmlandAdventures.com Fast Lane Entertainment (Pg. 30) (479) 659-0999 www.fastlanebowl.com Girl Scouts (Pg. 29) Girlscoutsdiamonds.org/Top5 Little Gym (Pg.55) (479) 636-5566 McGarrah Farms (Pg. 49) McGarrahFarms.com Ozark Corn Maze (Pg. 24) (479) 644-1036 Princess Party Palace NWA (Pg. 64) princesspartypalacenwa.com Starlight Skatium (Pg. 47) (479) 444-STAR Super Science (Pg. 55) (479) 444-0303 www.super-sci.com Terra Studios (Pg. 71) terrastudios.com

FITNESS/SPORTS ATA (Pg. 4) Bentonville: (479) 273-1212 Fayetteville: (479) 443-5425

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

HAIRCUTS Pigtails and Crewcuts (Pg. 38) (479) 935-4121

HEALTH AND WELLNESS Northwest Primary Care (Pg. 8-9) nw-physicians.com Tate HealthCare (Pg. 73, 77) (479) 271-6511 www.tatehealthcare.com

HOUSE/YARD Natural State Treehouses (Pg. 39) (479) 387-0701

JEWELRY AND GIFTS David Adams (Pg. 35) davidadams.com (479) 444-7778

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

Oh Baby Boutique (Pg. 41) (479) 254-2911 www.ohbabynwa.com

LEARNING CENTER Mary’s Little Lamb Preschool (Pg. 47) (479) 273-1011 The Elizabeth Richardson Center (Pg. 33) (479) 443-4420 (Fayetteville) Larson’s Language Center (Pg. 72) (479) 633-9900

MARTIAL ARTS ATA (Pg. 4) Bentonville: (479) 273-1212 Fayetteville: (479) 443-5425

OPTOMETRIST Pediatric Vision Development Center (Pg. 45) nwavisiontherapy.com (479) 795-1411

PEDIATRICIAN Bentonville Pediatric Clinic (Pg. 42) (479) 273-5437 Best Start Pediatric Clinic (Pg. 17) (479) 575-9359 Friendship Pediatric Services (Pg. 65) (479) 524-2458 Siloam Springs Living Tree Pediatrics (Pg. 78) (479) 282-2966 Northwest Arkansas Pediatrics, a MANA clinic (Pg. 5, 13) (479) 443-3471

PHOTOGRAPHY Main Street Studios (Pg. 7) mainstreetstudios.us

PLASTIC SURGEON Lips & Lines (Pg. 73) (479) 330-1201 NWA Center for Plastic Surgery (Pg. 2) (479) 571-3100 www.nwacenterforplasticsurgery.com

PRESCHOOL/ PRE-K ABC Happy Kids Learning Academy (Pg. 51) (479) 621-6126 www.abchappykids.com Friendship Pediatric Services (Pg. 65) Lowell: (479) 770-0744 Siloam Springs: (479) 524-2465 West Fork: (479) 839-3359 Mary’s Little Lambs Preschool (Pg.47) (479) 273-1011 The New School (Pg. 25) thenewschool.org

REAL ESTATE The Duley Group (Pg. 21) (479) 616-HOME duleygroup.com

RELAY SERVICE Arkansas Relay (Pg. 11) arkansasrelay.com

THERAPY ABC Happy Kids Learning Academy (Pg. 51) (479) 621-6126 www.abchappykids.com Children’s Therapy T.E.A.M (Pg. 66-7) www.childrenstherapyteam.com The Elizabeth Richardson Center (Pg. 33) (479) 443-4420 (Fayetteville) Friendship Pediatric Services (Pg. 65) Lowell: (479) 770-0744 Siloam Springs: (479) 524-2465 West Fork: (479) 839-3359 Woodland Research Northwest (Pg. 31) woodlandintlresearchgrp.com

WOMEN’S HEALTH Lifespring (Pg. 73) (479) 271-0005 Northwest Women’s Health Associates (Pg. 79) (479) 553-2525 Parkhill Clinic for Women (Pg. 19) (479) 521-4433 parkhillclinic.com Siloam Springs Women’s Center (Pg. 75) (479) 524-9312 siloamwomenscenter.com