February 2017

LIFE AFTER THE STORM

Rainbow Babies

Parents share their stories of loss and love

Plus: Sweet Recipes Your kids will L♥VE

Love, Lifting and the Next Generation How We Met

INsiDE...

NWA'S ULTIMATE

A special love story A Family Day at

Lake Atlanta

GUIDE

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

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4 February 2017

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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

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

Jeremy Whitaker Michelle Dodson

Peekaboo Publications PO Box 1036 Bentonville, Arkansas 72712

BEN LACY Dad’s View

Columnist

VERONICA ZUCCA Story Design

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

PEEKABOO Northwest Arkansas accepts writing contributions

6 February 2017

JENNIFER CRISTOFARO Events

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8 February 2017

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Inside

FEBRUARY 2017

Also 24

Northwest Health Making Heart Health History in NWA

34

You Will Survive

BY JESSICA RITCHIE

18

Valentine's Day Recipes

20

Discovering Our Rainbow BY: ELLA SHELTON

58

Dad’s View

WITH BEN LACY

62

Kylee's Voice

BY: CHILDREN'S THERAPY TEAM

64

Mom in the Know

BY CHRISTY MARTIN

66

Breathe Easy

BY DR. SARAH WORLEY

28

Love Lifting and the Next Generation BY: ANGELA CLABORN

38

Not Your Typical Rainbow

68

How We Met

BY TODD HOOK

BY: KRISTIN PISTON

ON THE COVER

43

The Ultimate Birthday Party Guide!

60

The Birth of Stella Grace Wagner BY: JESSICA WAGNER

Cover Sponsored by: Northwest Health www.northwesthealth.com 10 February 2017

Thayer with his mommy, Ella Shelton of Rogers.

Photo by Jessica Ritchie Photography www.jessicaritchiephotography.com

BENTONVILLE, ARKANSAS

479.418.5700

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High quality child care looks like

MUSIC.

There’s more to music than entertainment. Music introduces new words and brings the brain and body together.

Patterns lead children to predict what comes next.

Routine makes children feel secure. That makes them more open to learning.

Clapping, singing and dancing help children recognize patterns. Understanding patterns helps with math and more.

Find child care that turns up the volume on happy and learning. Visit our website to find high quality child care.

Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education

12 February o Feb. 2017.indd 1

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

Learn more at bit.ly/peekmusic

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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!

MARCH is the non-profit issue. If you have an event or non-profit you would like to see featured email editor@ peekaboonwa.com APRIL is our spotlight on all things summer camp. If you have a summer camp offering we want to share it!

Photo by: Daniel Moody Photography

Happy Birthday, Peekaboo! It's the BIG “0-9!” ..... (long pause) .... (like hours long)...

Now, if you were reading this particular 'letter from the editor' in real time, you would have had to wait nearly 29 hours from the first line above to the sentence you are finishing now. Why, you ask?

Because, honestly, life with my three littles can be fairly wild and crazy--and filled with interruptions!

My usual letters don't really reflect those more chaotic moments, instead focusing on poignant, uplifting parenting vignettes meant to offer my readers hope, excitement, and pats on the back. This month, however, as we celebrate the 9th birthday of the magazine, I recalled exactly why I started this journey in the first place, and opted for a little more grit in my inspiration for the letter.

You see, we designed Peekaboo principally to bring that 'realness' to parents all over NWA. Though Facebook and Instagram weren't all that prevalent (or existent) when we began the magazine, that tendency of families and parents to make their lives seem perfect to others still very much existed. Even now, Peekaboo doesn't want to give the 'Facebook feed' version of parenthood, nor do we want to be another Instagram photo diary, with perfectly crafted little squares projecting some kind of ideal of family. Instead, our magazine was created to help my mommy friends, all the parents across NWA, and especially me, cope with the REAL version of parenthood that I had somehow never seen in the pages of national parenting magazines, yet was living every day.

In fact, while I was trying to write the simple birthday message at the top of this letter, I was forced to pause in order to diffuse a battle between the oldest and the youngest over the TV controller.

14 February 2017

Unfortunately, the youngest sees himself as the oldest, so this type of conflict is quite common. After taking away all electronics and screen time from all three of them, a long discussion on kindness, respect, and keeping the peace (even if it meant not getting their way) took place; so long of a conversation it ran straight into bath time and bedtime routines.

After that exhausting exchange, I wasn’t in the mood to get sentimental on the beauty of being a mom in this month's letter--even though it is the most amazing journey I will ever be a part of. Instead, I let my pregnancy hormones take over, had a mini emotional meltdown, and went to bed well before the 10 o’clock news.

Luckily for me, every morning offers a fresh start, and our commitment to daily snuggles at 6AM before forcing the light into each of my little one’s eyes is incredibly healing.

Funnily enough, the best allies you can have when you feel 'less than' as a parent are other parents, because they truly have 'been there, done that.' They know that the stress you sometimes exhibit comes from loving your kids so deeply, and wanting them to be healthy and happy, to never hurt and to always know how loved they are. I honestly don’t know what I would do without the honest connections I have made through Peekaboo, and am so glad that I am able to bring this connection with other parents to each and every reader. Thank you for being a 'been there, done that, and willing to share' parent for 9 years! It truly has been an exciting journey to be a part of, and I can’t wait to see where this year takes us... who we will meet, and what we will learn, together. …so, happy birthday, Peekaboo! And happy birthday this month to our Grant... although you will never be the oldest, in just a few months you will also no longer be the youngest!

SPEECH, LANGUAGE, AND READING THERAPY FOR ALL AGES

Is your child struggling with reading, writing, or spelling?

Is your child missing developmental milestones when it comes to speech and language?

Lexicon Speech, Language & Reading provides exceptional service through evaluation and treatment using evidence-based techniques for remediating speech, language, and reading issues.

Formerly known as Gideon Math & Reading, we have combined our established family-run businesses and expertise which allows us the flexibility to create individualized lesson plans and set goals for each student that remain fluid as the student grows.

SERVICES: • SPEECH & LANGUAGE • READING, WRITING, SPELLING & MATH • DYSLEXIA SCREENING

• MULTI-SENSORY INSTRUCTION • COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATIONS • DYSLEXIA TUTORING & SUPPORT

DYSLEXIA WARNING SIGNS: IN PRE-SCHOOL • Delayed speech • Mixing up sounds and syllables in long words • Difficulty learning to tie shoes • Confusion of left vs right • A close relative with dyslexia • Chronic ear infections • Trouble memorizing their address, phone number or the alphabet

IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL • Letter and number reversals after first grade • Slow, choppy, inaccurate reading • Poor spelling • Difficulty finding the correct word or phrase when speaking • Slow, non-automatic handwriting that is difficult to read • Extremely poor written expression

for a complete list or more information about our services, please visit

www.lexiconNWA.com Fayetteville 521-6500

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16 February 2017

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VALENTINE'S DAY RECIPES YOUR SWEETHEART WILL

Jumbo Chocolate Covered Pretzel Hearts I worked w three pre ith tz at a time els ,a chocolate s the to harden begins quickly

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12 - jumbo, pub-style pretzels 16 oz of dipping chocolate (or 8 oz each of chocolate and vanilla) 1 (8 oz.) bag of M&M's® Strawberry candies Start by laying down a sheet of waxed paper on your work surface. Melt the dipping chocolate according to the package directions (I melted mine in the microwave for about 1 minute for each 8 oz bowl of chocolate.) Submerge each pretzel into the melted chocolate so it's completely covered. Lift out with a fork or spatula, and gently shake off any excess chocolate.

Lay the pretzel on the waxed paper. While the chocolate is still wet, add the M&M's® along the edge of the pretzel to make a heart shape. Let the chocolate cool and set completely, for at least 30-60 minutes.

Place the pretzels in the refrigerator for 1015 minutes to speed up the cooling process.

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2 squares of butter Chocolate 1/3 cup cocoa 2 cups sugar Strawberry 4 eggs 1 1/2 cup flour Marshmallow 2 tsp vanilla Bars Mini Marshmallows M&M’s® Strawberry candies Mix together butter, cocoa, and sugar. Add your eggs one at a time until well mixed.

Add flour, vanilla. Bake in well greased 9×13 pan for 30 minutes at 350 degrees.

Remove from oven and immediately place marshmallows over the top completely covering them. Put back into oven until marshmallows are all puffed up and melted into each other. Remove from oven and sprinkle M&M’s® Strawberry on the top.

Let cool and enjoy! danimarieblog.com BROUGHT TO YOU BY 18 February 2017

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A rainbow baby is a baby born after a miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death, infant or child loss. It is understood that the beauty of a rainbow doesn't negate the ravages of any storm. When a rainbow appears, it doesn't mean the storm never happened or that its aftermath isn't still felt. It means that something beautiful and full of light has appeared in the midst of the darkness and clouds. Storm clouds may still hover, but the rainbow provides a counterbalance of color, energy and hope.

Surviving the Storm and

Discovering Our Rainbow The Story of Thayer William Shelton

BY ELLA SHELTON / PHOTOS BY JESSICA RITCHIE PHOTOGRAPHY

T

hayer William Shelton, our 'rainbow baby,' was born on February 4, 2015. To say he is a blessing is an understatement. All children are blessings from God, but Thayer has actually been the one that saved my life. He has made me want to breathe again. He has been the one who restored my hope and has been the light during my darkest days.

Foundation. Taylor’s foundation has helped fund much-needed research into SUDC, in addition to donating funds to local charities. To learn more about Taylor and his foundation, please visit www. taylormckeen.com, or find us on facebook under Taylor McKeen Shelton Foundation.

After we lost Taylor, I knew I wanted to be a mom again. I knew that a baby was the only thing that To have a rainbow, you must first go through a could provide me with a purpose for living again, storm. Like most moms who have lost children, and, after many months and failed attempts, I my storm left me begging for God to take me, too. became pregnant in May 2014. This pregnancy My storm came in the form of the death of my first was very different from my pregnancy with Taylor. son, Taylor McKeen Shelton.

I was nauseous and riddled with anxiety. I wanted so desperately to be happy and excited, but I was Taylor was born in April 2012, a healthy, precious anything but hopeful. I worried so much about baby boy. He was our world, and the child we how Taylor felt about this new baby. Did he feel had worked so hard to prepare for. My husband, like we were trying to replace him? Did he think Wes, and I were so thankful for Taylor, and we that we were moving on? These thoughts and fears loved him beyond measure. On June 15, 2013, consumed me. I didn’t think that I could ever love our happy and healthy 14-month-old went to bed this baby like I loved Taylor. I actually convinced and, without warning or reason, he never woke up. myself of that at the time, but I was wrong. I was Taylor’s death was attributed to SUDC (Sudden so wrong.

Unexplained Death in Childhood). We were left with empty arms and no answers as to how or why The moment I held Thayer in my arms, I knew Taylor died. he had come to save my life. God had given me another chance at being a mom and I am beyond Wes and I formed a foundation in memory of grateful for this gift.

Taylor to help bring awareness of SUDC and to help fund research for it. To date, we have raised Mothering a child in heaven and a child on earth over $400,000 through the Taylor McKeen Shelton is truly like walking a tightrope, though. I teeter 20 February 2017

between joy and anger, hope and sadness. I will forever long for Taylor. There will forever be a missing piece of my heart. The gift of Thayer, however, has helped to heal me in ways I never thought possible. I try my best to not allow my fears to be bigger than my faith and to not allow worry to consume me, but that is easier said than done. I try to cherish every moment I God had given me am given with him another chance at because no one is being a mom and I promised their next breath, and life can am beyond grateful change in an instant.

for this gift.

Thayer is now 2 years old and he keeps me very busy. He is so much like his brother, and yet he is his own person. His laugh is infectious and he has no fear. He is ALL boy; he loves cars, trains and dinosaurs and he runs everywhere he goes. He brings so much joy to a family who really needed it. There is not a second that passes when I don’t think about Taylor, that I don’t long to hold him again, but Thayer has given me a reason to want to survive. He will always be the one who saved me and the one who provides much-needed laughter and happiness to my life.

And for that I am thankful.

He is the brightest, most wonderful rainbow, one that we appreciate all the more due to the storm we've lived through.

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Barnstorm Theatre Company’s

The Bockety World of Henry & Bucket Saturday, Feb. 18 | 10am & 1:30pm

Join us for a theatrical comedy that will delight your little ones.

Henry and Bucket are best pals who use their imaginations to go on great adventures. Explore the world with these new friends.

Great for ages 4+.

Media support:

22 February 2017

Come party at Pigtails & Crewcuts!

When it comes to kids’ birthday parties, Pigtails & Crewcuts is the place to be! Our salon has a party room so whether you need a party fit for a princess, a pampering spa party, or anything in between. We can customize the party your child is dreaming of. Contact us today for more information!

Our salon features: • Vehicle-shapes chairs for our younger customers • Movies, toys, books, and more to enjoy before, during, and after the cut • A treasure chest stocked with surprises

$25 off

a birthday party

Cannot be used for after hours parties. Not valid with other offers. Valid at Fayetteville and Rogers locations ONLY. EXP: 4/30/2017

100 E. Joyce Blvd., Suite 105 • Fayetteville, AR 72703 • 479.935.4121 • pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/fayetteville 4200 West Green Acres Road, Suite 300 • Rogers, AR 72858 • 479.633.8999 • pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/rogers

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Northwest Health Making Heart Health History in NWA

AGAIN

February is American Heart Month, and Northwest Health boasts many heart health firsts in Northwest Arkansas.

More than 20 years ago, Northwest Health took a step in revolutionizing cardiac care in our area when the first-ever open heart surgery in Northwest Arkansas was performed at Northwest Medical Center – Springdale. Since that time, Northwest Health expanded cardiac diagnostics and open heart surgery to Northwest Medical Center – Bentonville to serve Benton County residents with dedicated cardiac services.

As recently as 2011, Northwest Medical Center Springdale raised the bar once more for cardiac care in our community as the first hospital in Northwest Arkansas to achieve accreditation as a Chest Pain Center with PCI. That same year, Northwest Health’s Michael Green, MD, FACS, interventional cardiologist, performed the first procedure in NWA using the world’s smallest heart pump, called the Impella pump, at Northwest Medical Center - Springdale.

World-class diagnostic technology arrived when the Springdale hospital purchased the state’s first Philips Allura Xper FD20 flat panel Catheterization Lab used for cardiovascular imaging. This new technology provided instant patient benefits in the form of sharper X-ray images for physician evaluation, including internal 3-D images in seconds instead of limited 2-D images that could take more than half an hour. Patient comfort was improved due to reduced radiation exposure and greatly reduced test times.

Dr. Green said, “The state-of-the-art technology in our Cardiac Cath Lab allows us to detect disease that may have been missed in the past with conventional equipment. We used to have to look at the heart, a 3-D object, as a 2-D image. Now we are able to instantly see multiple angles and develop the best game plan to treat our patients individually.”

24 February 2017

In 2016, the interventional cardiology team at Northwest Medical Center - Springdale became the first in the state of Arkansas to offer patients with coronary artery disease a new treatment option that literally disappears over time.

Dr. Green led the Cath Lab team and implanted a patient the first week of October 2016 with the world’s first FDA-approved dissolving heart stent. The Absorb bioresorbable vascular scaffold is a major advance in the treatment of coronary artery disease, which affects 15 million people in the United States and remains a leading cause of death worldwide despite decades of therapeutic advances.

While stents are traditionally made of metal, the absorbable stent is made of a naturally dissolving material, similar to dissolving sutures. The Absorb stent disappears completely in about 3 years, after it has done its job of keeping a clogged artery open and promoting healing of the treated artery segment. By contrast, metal stents are permanent implants.

“The cardiovascular team at Northwest Medical Center - Springdale is excited to be the first to implant this technology,” Dr. Green said. “The Absorb bioresorbable scaffold is the first fully dissolving stent available for the treatment of coronary artery disease,” he added. “This cutting edge technology is very appealing because the

“The state-of-the-art technology in our Cardiac Cath Lab allows us to detect disease that may have been missed in the past with conventional equipment."

For more information about heart care services at Northwest Health, go to www.northwesthealth.com. treatment leaves nothing behind, allowing for the treated artery to return to its natural state. While current metal technology is very effective for treating coronary artery disease, the absorbable platform allows access to other treatment options in the patient’s future.”

To ensure optimal patient selection and implant technique, Northwest Medical Center – Springdale’s cardiovascular team underwent extensive training on the new device.

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By: Angela Claborn ith a new year in full swing, everyone’s curious and excited about what the future will hold for the next generation... the 'up and coming' generation, known as generation Z. They have the world’s attention with their unique characteristics, ambitions, and talents. They are growing up in the digital age, making how the future will look with them shaping it a bit of a mystery. There’s certainly a lot of chatter about young people today being addicted to their devices, and the question of whether or not they will be able to “function” by our standards, is frequent water cooler discussion. This controversial topic inspired us to take action, and now we are on a mission. But more about that later!

W

family, we felt invincible.

The thought of the youth of today being “hooked” on technology really strikes a chord with us, and there’s a story behind that. In the end, it’s really just a love story... our love story.

What should’ve been a step in the right direction soon turned into a nightmare. We discovered that, as a result of so many surgeries and extended hospitalizations, I had developed a dangerous addiction to narcotics. This prescription drug addiction started wreaking havoc on our lives. It changed everything. I was reckless, irresponsible, and difficult. My choices were destructive in every sense of the word. This downward spiral continued for several years, and my world became very, very dark. I became increasingly more selfish, unreasonable, and unrecognizable... even to me.

Eventually, I lost everything. My devoted husband,

It started many years ago, on a Friday night blind date. This was my last-ditch effort, as I was about to give up on dating altogether. My only expectation was for the usual disaster to occur. How wrong I was! Just a few minutes in, I knew that this was the man I would spend the rest of my life with. He knew it, too. We never left each other’s side from that moment, and got married just six whirlwind weeks later. Inseparable, in love, and raising a 28 February 2017

But, 18 months after our youngest of four was born, I was unexpectedly struck with a vicious virus and developed Guillian Barre, a rare autoimmune complication that resulted in a wide range of neuromuscular problems. I was weak, confused, partially paralyzed, and barely functioning. We were told it was uncertain how much function I could regain, if I turned a corner. With four little children at home, this was devastating news. Our bubble had burst, and life was totally upside down. Days of being hospitalized turned to weeks, then months, until, finally, I did begin to recover, and was stable enough to be discharged to outpatient therapy.

a job I adored, our life savings, and every friend I’d ever had. Lost and completely alone, things really started to sink in. This was it. Rock bottom was staring me right in the face. It didn’t matter how I had arrived there. It didn’t matter that it had all started with a legitimate medical problem.

Addiction doesn’t care how it starts. Literally knocking on death’s door, and out of chances, it was absolute decision time.

So, being completely out of my mind, I decided against traditional rehab, and concocted an unconventional “gym rehab” plan. Real rehab just wasn’t my style. I was going to do Crossfit instead. I had heard how addicting it was, and that certainly resonated with me. On day 1 of “gym rehab," I was 90 pounds and as frail as I was light. I quit 'on ramp' (the Crossfit initiation course) 3 times because I physically could not get through it. I could not do one single push-up. I could not run. The neuromuscular damage from the virus was extensive. That damage, combined with the poison that had run daily through my veins for 3 years, did not lend itself easily to feats of athleticism. The pain and rigor was so intense, I nearly abandoned my “gym rehab” endeavor several times... but, something in me would not let me quit. After each failure to make it through the course, I picked my sore, defeated self up off the ground and kept signing up. Each time I started up again, I managed to get through one or two more days of training. Finally, on the fourth try, I finished the whole course. I slept on ice packs for a week afterwards, and couldn’t put my own shoes on, but had the green light to be a full-on member. Through my crazy “gym rehab," I beat the addiction odds, gained 40 pounds of muscle, and started the long process of putting my life back together.

Crossfit brought me back from the brink of death and destruction.The principles within it gave me a reason to live again, and taught me about sacrifice, and about hard work. It was the only rehabilitation I needed, and is still the only one I have ever been through. With my health secured, and career back on track, I should have been happy. Instead, there was an enormous emptiness, a sadness I couldn’t shake. Grief over what I had done came flooding over me. The more I accomplished, the more sorrow I endured because of what was missing. All these victories just didn’t mean anything without my family. Knowing it was exclusively my fault that they weren’t there made it even harder to accept. Getting them back seemed impossibly out of reach. There was no way. Was there? My tragic divorce had already been final for a few years.

People told me it was hopeless, and a colossal waste of time--that I should just accept this

heartbreaking unraveling of my precious family as permanent and move on. But, leaning hard into the principles Crossfit taught me--of patience, of building progress slowly, one tough move at a time--I made another choice. To fight for them.

No matter what. To give it my absolute all, blood, sweat, and tears, in the face of probable failure. I vowed to commit 100% to putting back together what I had destroyed. If I had come all the way from not one single pull-up to knocking out 100 of them, I could do this. I could do the unthinkable, the impossible. I could fix something everyone thought was broken beyond repair. There was not

Fitness, and, for a lot of people, Crossfit in particular, can take people from hopeless to limitless.

one soul besides myself who thought our situation was salvageable. But, I only needed one person to believe. And that one person was me.

There was a lot of work to do, with our children who had certainly suffered, but mostly, with their dad, the love of my life. I was lucky to be numb during all the damage I had done, but he had witnessed it all with complete clarity. He laid in a hospital bed with me for months on end, just to have me walk away from him. I had betrayed him in countless ways, and completely broken his heart. So I rolled up my sleeves, dug deep, and beckoned every bit of mental, and emotional strength I had left in me, to face it head on. The early days were discouraging. There was a lot of rejection, to say the least. I had lost trust. I was an outcast. Talk about being vulnerable, and putting your heart on the line. But I shook it off, day after day, and kept sending the message, in various ways.

“I’m here, I love you, nothing is more important than you, I’m not going anywhere.” What I got back in the beginning was mostly radio silence. Still, I Turn the page … peekaboonwa.com

29

kept the long game in mind. Slowly, the ice began to melt. And there were lots of questions.

“How will I ever trust you?”

You won’t. Trust is earned.

“I don’t know if I can even begin to try.”

Don’t try. You don’t have to try. You did all the trying for years. Just let me try.

“Maybe I don’t love you anymore.”

You don’t have to love me back. Just let me love you.

“I’m not strong enough to face our past.”

It’s okay. I’m strong enough for the both of us. Let me show you how strong I am.

It took doing that, and sending that message, fighting that fight, for a week. Then months. “I’m sorry. I love you, only you, just you, always you.”

Then a year. “You’re my family. Everything I’m doing is all for you” I said, and did all this, from outside my own home. He was cautious, and I was patient. There were setbacks and hurdles, but piece by piece, pound by pound, brick by brick, I built back a foundation. When it felt hopeless I would reflect back on my Crossfit initiation experience for inspiration. Remembering the pain of the early days, the soreness, the weakness, the defeat. I kept reminding myself: “Show him how strong you can be." And I did just that. I didn’t waver. I worked for it. The journey was long, with a touch of crazy and a lot of raw love that only those who have been to hell and back together can understand. We hung

on for dear life and waited for the storm to break.

And when it did, much to our surprise, we really did fall in love, as if it were all brand new.

We felt so lucky to be together after so much had torn us apart. We had known so much heartache from missing each other. We knew we never wanted that again. So, a decade after our love story began, we remarried each other at the Crossfit gym (of course!) with our four awesome children there, shedding happy tears. I would go through it all again to have the unbreakable bond we share-one that is too deep and complex to put into words.

My daughter turned to me and asked, “Mom, did God do all this for us? Do you believe in heaven?”

To which, I replied “I don’t have those answers.

But I do believe in heaven. This is my heaven. You guys. Daddy. If there’s nothing after this, this is enough.” And that is so true, because in our little piece of heaven, every spring, we celebrate another year of being addiction-free. Well, not completely addiction-free... we are Crossfitters, after all!

With that experience fueling us, we are excited about the next phase in our lives. Our mission?

Helping other people overcome their own challenges and become what they were always meant to be… total badasses. Fitness, and, for a lot of people, Crossfit in particular, can take people from hopeless to limitless. From complete devastation to total domination. Wherever you are now, right at this moment, no matter how bad it seems... there’s a place for you at the gym. Going there will lead to a better place for you in life, and in the world. You belong here. With us.

We asked ourselves, how can we get that message out? How can we creatively encourage the next generation to begin their own journey to strength?

To get hooked on healthy pursuits? How can we do that in a powerful and provocative way?

By speaking their language. OBVI! That’s how we developed Gen-Z by BackWOD Brands, our first athletic apparel line, created to make bold statements, start conversations and inspire youth in their awesome endeavors--all in their own lingo.

GEN-Z, or ZEDS as they are called, communicate quite differently than us millennials and Gen-X’ers.

Whether you find it LOL funny, or disturbing, it’s just the way they relate to each other and to the world. Sometimes, you need a translator to get the gist... and we’ve been practicing. See how you measure up on the GenZ slang scale! And don’t worry, there’s a key if you need help!

Check out your tweens text messages and you will be left scratching your head. Sounding downright foreign, you’re suddenly struck with FUD and hoping it’s not as bad as it sounds. Relax, and

30 February 2017

DBEYR. FWIW, they are great kids with The new generation is more than just FUD Fear and incredible futures in their hands! We athletes, of course. They are tech-savvy, just need to be there to help strengthen Unneccessary Dread intuitive, talented, and creative. They are their grip. And our Generation Z line artists, dancers, innovators, and leaders.

D BEYR is going to do just that IRL. CrossFit So, whatever dreams they chase, we Don’t Believe has its own language of acronyms, Everything You Read are cheering them on. We know from such as DBDNF and BDL. Mix these experience that anything is possible F W IW terms with GEN-Z slang, and you have For What It’s Worth with hard work, sacrifice, and diligent a completely new wave of original, dedication. We believe in the next IRL trendsetting must-haves that are perfect generation, that they will raise the bar, In Real Life for the gym, the field, class, and even a change the world, and blow us all away.

D BD NF night out (hello, athleisure!) That’s great Check out the talented GEN-Z athletes Death Before Do news for a brand, obviously, as we want Not Finish from Northwest Arkansas in our video to succeed in a competitive industry. But at backwodbrands.com and get ready BD L that’s not the heart of BackWod Brands. for the revolution.

Bar Don’t Lie We want to get the message out. We want our young people to inspire their BAE This story is dedicated to my family.

Before Anything peers to join the movement in creating a The true heroes are my husband and Else stronger and healthier world. children, who stood by me when I was my own worst enemy. None of us RBT L RBTL and you can see that ZEDs have Read Between The can forget the nightmare I put them the opportunity to choose strength early, Lines through, and the scars forever remain because they are growing up in a world as a reminder that everything we do ZED S where athletic opportunities are more affects others. To the man who let me Generation Z’ers available than ever before in history. finally come home for good: you are the NIM BY Gen-Z’s will be strong BAE. As far as any unhealthy choices or addictions, Not In My Backyard strongest man I know. Everything I do is for you, just you, only you, always you. they will be proudly shouting NIMBY! You are my heaven.

BackWOD Brands is an athletic apparel company founded in Northwest Arkansas in 2016. It’s a versatile fashion and accessory line that reflects diverse interests, and has something for athletes of all sports, not just Crossfit.

Our video launch featured 12 local youth athletes in various sports being their awesome, talented selves. You can watch the video on our website www.backwodbrands.com and follow us on insta @genzfit. Special thanks to CrossFit Bentonville, and Intercut Productions.

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32 February 2017

FACT:

Vaccines save lives.

Learn more at archildrens.org/vaccines

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A rainbow baby is a baby born after a miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death, infant or child loss. It is understood that the beauty of a rainbow doesn't negate the ravages of any storm. When a rainbow appears, it doesn't mean the storm never happened or that its aftermath isn't still felt. It means that something beautiful and full of light has appeared in the midst of the darkness and clouds. Storm clouds may still hover, but the rainbow provides a counterbalance of color, energy and hope.

You Will Survive

BY JESSICA RITCHIE • PHOTO BY JESSICAR RITCHIE PHOTOGRAPHY

O

ur story starts on December 6, 2008, when my husband and I found out we were pregnant with our first child.

Our story is like most at this point. We were beside ourselves with excitment and nerves.

The pregnancy progressed as we had hoped and planned. We entered into the pregnancy innocent and optimistic. Who wouldn’t? For nine months everything went according to schedule, without any hiccups. We reached forty weeks and were scheduled to be induced. On August 18th, 2009, our son Wyatt was born via cesarian section. He was 7 pounds 3 ounces. Perfect, of course, and we were in love. I wish this was where our story ended, or that it went on like most others... But this was our turning point.

is where I pause. There are so many details of our hospital stay, surgeries, nurses, doctors, fears, and accomplishments -- I could get lost in the details. I remember these thirty six days like yesterday. I remember the sounds, the smells, the faces. I remember holding Wyatt, feeding him, bathing him, breathing him in. I remember it all.

And I remember when it all came to an end. On September 23, 2009, Wyatt went home to be with our Father in Heaven. It wasn’t expected. We were very, very close to bringing him back to Northwest Arkansas. Unfortunately, due to some preventable complications, we were unable to hold him outside of hospital walls. So, I sit here, seven years later, to tell you what I wish someone would have said to me. Something I learn fresh every single day.

Hours after he was born, Wyatt went into respiratory distress and was airlifted to a local hospital. It wasn’t long after that we learned our son had a very serious heart condition. Double Outlet Right Ventricle with pulmonary and mitral atresia. At this point, we had no idea what this meant. We soon learned Wyatt would undergo open heart surgery at a week old and then would require a couple more surgeries as he grew. This

You will survive.

34 February 2017

You will survive.

Even when I didn’t want to, I survived. Seven years later, I am still surviving. My wounds are still fresh and very raw. I have learned that there is no such thing as complete healing in this lifetime.

Peace comes daily, and typically simultaneously with surrender. I am okay with this. I have found

that while I still miss him with every single ounce of my being, that while a huge piece of me has died, life has continued to creep back in and find its place in my heart. Happiness and joy have nestled themselves back into places I was sure would remain dark and empty forever. My loss is not where my story ends. It does not define me, but shapes me. It has, ironically, made this life richer, sweeter, and more meaningful. I am blessed to experience a sacred rawness daily. If I were to look a grieving parent in the eye today, you would hear me whisper the words, "You are going to survive. This is not easy, but you will survive. You will experience true joy again. You will laugh and feel the simple pleasures of this world again. But you will do it all the while you suffer." There are no words which can accurately describe the affect of our losses or the feelings and thoughts we encounter daily, but I believe Gregory Floyd says it best in his poem when he speaks of joyfully suffering.

even as she spoke they become conscious of a form standing beside them; dimly seen, but of kingly Presence, and a great and holy awe stole over them as they sank on their knees before Him.

"sorrow was beautiful, but her beauty was the beauty of the moonlight shining through the leafy branches of the trees in the wood, and making little pools of silver here and there in the soft green moss below.

hand in hand they passed out into the world to follow Him through storm and sunshine, in the bleakness of winter cold and the warmth of summer gladness, as sorrowful yet always rejoicing."

'i see Him as the King of Joy,' whispered sorrow, 'for on His head are many crowns, and the nailprints in His hands and feet are the scars of great victory. before Him all my sorrow is melting away into deathless love and gladness, and i give myself to Him forever.' 'nay, sorrow," said joy softly, 'but i see Him as the King of Sorrow, and the crown on His head is a crown of thorns, and the nailprints in His hands and feet are the scars of great agony. i too, give myself to Him forever, for sorrow with Him must be sweeter than any joy i have ever known.' 'then we are one in Him,' they cried in gladness, 'for none but He could unite joy and sorrow.'

when sorrow sang, her notes were like the low sweet call of the nightingale, and in her eyes was the unexpectant gaze of one who has ceased to look for coming gladness. she could weep in tender sympathy with those who weep, but to rejoice with those who rejoice was unknown to her. joy was beautiful, too, but his was the radiant beauty of the summer morning. his eyes still held the glad laughter of childhood, and his hair had the glint of sunshine's kiss. when joy sang his voice soared upward as the lark's, and his step was the step of a conqueror who has never known defeat. he could rejoice with all who rejoice, but to weep with those who weep was unknown to him. 'but we can never be united,' said sorrow wistfully. 'no, never.' and joy's eyes shadowed as he spoke. 'my path lies through the sunlit meadows, the sweetest roses bloom for my gathering, and the blackbirds and thrushes await my coming to pour forth their moist joyous lays.' 'my path,' said sorrow, turning slowly away, 'leads through the darkening woods; with moonflowers only shall my hands be filled. yet the sweetest of all earth songs-the love song of the night-shall be mine; farewell, joy, farewell.'

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Calendar FEBRUARY 2017 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

February 4th

Meet the Razorback Baseball Team 4-6pm NWA Mall Center Court The Razorback Diamond Dolls, RBI Girls, and Ribby the Mascot will also be available for pictures and autographs.

STEAM Studio at the Scott Family Amazeum Thursdays from 10am to noon Families with children under the age of 6 years can explore, play, and discover together. The Early Learner STEAM Studio embraces children’s natural curiosity by developing their interest in science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). Everyday play experiences are brimming exceptional educational opportunities and the learning becomes deeper and longer lasting when a caring adult plays too. STEAM Studio is about discovery. Be co-discoverers with your child!

Razorback Hockey Jones Center 4-5:30 All home Razorback hockey meets are held at Jones Center in Springdale. There are 350 seats available for all home games in the upper stands. All seating in the upper stands is general admission and seating exists on a first come first served basis.

Standing room only tickets at the glass level are also available.

Individual tickets are available at the door beginning one hour prior to face-off on home dates. $10 general admission, kids 12 & under free

February 5th

Living the Dream at the Scott Family Amazeum 11am-4pm Ages: 14-25 $30 Amazeum members/$40 non members* Do you dream of taking your musical talent to the next level?

The Scott Family Amazeum is partnering with Anthony Gomes, award winning blues rock singer/songwriter/guitarist to offer a workshop for young adults ages 14-25. These budding musicians will learn how to make a living from the arts by investigating the creative process and business aspects of a career in music. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to rub elbows with Anthony and discovery the pathway to start living the dream! *Advanced registration and payment required.

February 8th

Galentine's Day--Death by Chocolate 6-8pm Imagine Studios Girls Night Out www.imaginestudiosnwa.com

February 9th

Preschool Playdate » Love Bugs Crystal Bridges 11:30-2pm Share the day with your favorite love bug! Create a special Valentine and enjoy story time and creative play inspired by the art we love and Valentine’s Day. FREE, no registration required.

February 10th Friday Fun Night

6-8pm Ages 5 and Up Imagine Studios - www.imaginestudiosnwa.com

February 11

Museum Storytime with Miss Sarah Museum of Native American History Bentonville 10:30am "Storytime with Miss Sarah" is scheduled at the Museum of Native American History for the second Saturday of every month 10:30 am. Each month's storytime will feature a Native American folk tale, stories of furry creatures and activities! Free and open to the public. Museum storytimes are geared towards preschoolers but great for all ages.

February 11th and 12th

Daddy Daughter Valentine Dance at Princess Party Palace February 11th - Fayetteville Location - 10:30am February 12th - Bentonville Location - 1:30pm Join Cinderella, Elena, and some of their friends as they host a Daddy/Daughter Valentine's Day Ball! There will be cookie decorating, glitter tattoos, a royal rose ceremony for each daddy/daughter couple, love songs performed by your hosts, Valentine's day story time, a valentine's day card craft to give to that special family member when you return home, picture frame craft for that special photo of you and you're daddy, and of course we will boogie down! Tickets are $35.00 per couple and any family member combination is welcome! Tickets are limited! Please call 479-799-6133 with any questions.

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♥♥♥

February 12th

February 24th

Crystal Bridges 12pm - 5pm Mark your calendars for our fifth annual I ♥ Art Family Sunday! Bring your loved ones to Crystal Bridges to enjoy music and hands-on fun. FREE, no registration required.

6-8pm Ages 5 and Up Imagine Studios - www.imaginestudiosnwa.com

February 15th - 19th

CB Babies

Family Sunday » I ♥ Art

Circus Oz

7:00 pm Walton Arts Center 495 W. Dickson St. Fayetteville A two-hour array of physical feats, spectacular skills and hilarious antics. Aerialists defy gravity, jugglers propel unlikely objects in complicated cacophonies, acrobats fall up and stand over.

February 18th

Barnstorm Theatre Company's The Bockety World Of Henry & Bucket

Friday Fun Night

February 25th Crystal Bridges 10am - 11am (Infants ages 3 months to 24 months) Oh baby! Join us for this special program for the Museum’s youngest visitors: infants ages 3 months to 24 months and a caregiver! Spend time in the galleries looking at and talking to your baby about art then enjoy sensory playtime! We’ll visit new artwork and make new discoveries together each month! Make sure you are able to hold your baby or have them in a front carrier; your baby needs to see and physically react to the artworks. This is a time to bond with your baby, so please make other arrangements for any siblings. $10 ($8/ Members), register online or with Guest Services.

Walton Arts Center Henry and Bucket are best pals, although sometimes you wouldn’t think so! Like all good friends they have their ups and downs, their battles and reconciliations, their shared adventures and, at times, a need for their own space. But as long as these two friends are together, transforming their rusty, dusty, battered and bockety world of discarded objects into a place of wonder, their adventures can take them anywhere!

Poetic, humorous and rich in visual antics, this imaginative production travels all the way from Ireland to explore what friendship is, what happens if it goes wrong and how you can fix it.

February 25

Richland Creek Cleanup

Walton Arts Center An all new theatrical stage show based on the #1 animated PBS KIDS® series “Wild Kratts!” Martin and Chris Kratt - stars of the Emmy® nominated show and creators of other popular kids’ series, like “Zooboomafoo” and “Kratts Creatures” – step out live on-stage to share some wow facts about animals presented in large screen multimedia format.

The Kratt brothers put on their vests and gloves and begin activating Creature Powers, but when the Zachbots steal one of their favorite inventions, it’s “off to the creature rescue!” With hilarious “pratfalls” and slapstick fun, this on-stage adventure is an exciting experience for all ages. Best for ages 3+

w/ lunch & door prizes in Goshen 9am - 1pm Join us for the 2nd annual Richland Creek Cleanup. Meet at Goshen Community Building, 244 E Clark St. Cleanup will take place at various sites along the creek. Trash bags, gloves & water will be provided. Volunteers receive free lunch. 9-12 is check-in and clean up 12-1 is lunch & door prizes Free - All Ages.

For more information email: melissa@beaverwatershedalliance.org, or call 479 750 8007

Super Saturday: Read Across America 10:30am Fayetteville Public Library: Children's Library It's Dr. Seuss's birthday! Join us for a special party celebrating the author of so many beloved books. There will be stories, face painting, balloons, birthday cake, and a visit from Cat in the Hat! This event is free and open to the public.

February 26th

Wild Kratts - Live!

Princess for a Day event Mermaid’s - 2217 N. College Ave, Fayetteville (tickets required) 10am-3pm (first session 10-11:30 / second session 1:30-3) Join Pagnozzi Charities for the 4th annual Princess for a Day event. Bring your little princess dressed in her favorite princess attire to get her nails done, hair styled, make a princess craft and have her picture taken with her favorite princesses and get an autograph from her favorite princess. Money raised at this event will go to the Pagnozzi Youth Sports Assistance Fund in order to provide assistance for dance and gymnastics. Pagnozzi Charities provides sports assistance to underprivileged children K-8th Grade in Northwest Arkansas that assist with sports registration fees, equipment, etc.Cost: $30

February 19th

Mom & Me Cupcake Painting Party 2pm Imagine Studios www.imaginestudiosnwa.com

MY CREATIVE ITCH FIX

C U S TOM W R E AT H S DOOR HANGERS GARLANDS

by CRYSTAL HARRY

mycreativeitchfix@yahoo.com

"Crafting is my creative itch fix"

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A rainbow baby is a baby born after a miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death, infant or child loss. It is understood that the beauty of a rainbow doesn't negate the ravages of any storm. When a rainbow appears, it doesn't mean the storm never happened or that its aftermath isn't still felt. It means that something beautiful and full of light has appeared in the midst of the darkness and clouds. Storm clouds may still hover, but the rainbow provides a counterbalance of color, energy and hope.

Not Your Typical Rainbow

O

BY KRISTIN PISTON

ur not-so-typical rainbow baby story began nearly 6 years ago, in 2011. We were in our early 20’s, blissfully naive, and decided it was time to make our duo a trio. I laugh now, thinking back to what I thought I knew and what I’ve grown to understand the last 6 years--the biggest thing being that I am not as in control of things as I think (or want) to be. While it appeared that everyone around us got to pick and choose what month and day they’d like to have kids, we quickly learned our journey was going to be much, much different.

Our first miscarriage was September 4, 2011. We were shocked, confused and angry. We weren't given any answers as to why, and all we were told was that “miscarriages are common” and “you’ll go on to have a healthy pregnancy.” I’d like to go back to that first doctor and give her a piece of my mind, but that’s a whole other story!

Very quickly we learned that I am what we call “a fertile infertile.” We conceive unusually fast, every time, but my body has been unable to carry our babies to term. Over the last 6 years we have endured more pregnancies, heartbeats, growth, and hope upon hope than I care to share. We have come crashing down to the depths of pure grief when we were told our babies didn't make it. In 2012, we had a particularly difficult loss. We had held onto as much hope as we could, and were shocked to see things progressing so well after experiencing 4 previous losses. We saw her grow. I was experiencing all the “fun” 1st trimester symptoms. Nothing gives you perspective like loss. It makes you incredibly grateful 38 February 2017

for things that the average person would complain about. Morning sickness, extreme exhaustion, being overly emotional, etc., I was thankful for it all. I truly believed this baby was our rainbow. But she wasn’t.

We lost Haven Shiloh Piston just like we lost all of her siblings. We sat in the ultrasound room in the ER and saw her tiny body, whose heart was beating a mere 4 days before, now still. In that moment, my husband looked at me with tears filling his eyes and said “I am so grateful God gave us her for as long as He did.” WOW. That is perspective. Even in the heartbreak, we can rejoice in the gift we are given.

How does one keep hoping when all hope seems lost? For one, I have learned my hope doesn't lie in my circumstances. Romans 8:24 states that “hope that is seen, is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has?” Circumstances are temporary and fleeting. We will all experience joy and sorrow in this lifetime, and if I place my hope in Christ alone I can walk through the lowest depths of grief and the highest places of euphoria with confidence in who I am and WHOSE I am.

Our grief journey these last 6 years has been intense.

Nine doctors in 4 states, hours and hours of research, thousands and thousands of dollars spent, procedures and protocols, and all to no avail. My circumstances are the same today as they were in 2011, but you know what? My heart is not. My heart has been broken and mended, stretched and shaped in ways I never imagined possible. I see the world through new eyes and I have a more tender and compassionate heart because of it. I’ve had the pleasure of starting Mend Ministries here in Northwest Arkansas for women going through child loss, infertility, adoption loss, or any kind of wound in the journey of motherhood.

I have had the privilege of walking with so many women through the griefs and joys of motherhood. I have been more fruitful in my pain then I could have ever been in my joy.

But what about that rainbow baby? In early 2014, we decided to blindly step out in faith and complete a home study for adoption. We had no idea if adoption was part of our story, or just another avenue leading to pain and loss, but we moved forward anyway.

After completing our home study, we sent it off and moved on with life. We figured that we were tired of trying so hard to be parents, that we would do our part and let go of trying so hard to control everything. After all, we believed if God desired us to be parents, it would happen one way or another.

In August 2014, we were both feeling the call to parent strongly, and started to get disheartened that there was little to no movement in the way of adoption. Then, the week of September 21, 2014, we experienced the moment we had been waiting for.

Early in the week we decided that we were going to fill out paperwork to open our home to foster, since we had not heard anything adoption-wise in about 6 months. That Thursday, I was driving home when Delilah came over the radio. I pulled into my garage and, instead of turning the ignition off and getting out, I stopped and listened. A woman had just called in to talk to Delilah. She had experienced several miscarriages and she said her husband didn't want to move forward with adoption because he wasn't sure if he could love a child that wasn't his own.

Delilah interjected and said, “Honey, I have adopted 10 children, and each one of them are my own." I burst into tears. Its funny now, but I look back and wonder if God was using Delilah to speak to me.

A day later, we were told we could not be active for adoption and sign up to foster at the same time. We had to choose one road. We ultimately decided to take our name off the list for adoption, but were

going to wait till the following Monday to turn in our paperwork and call the attorney. Little did we know that God had already been working behind the scenes in major ways.

Sunday September 21, 2014, a mere 24 hours before we were set to call our attorney and take our name OFF the list to adopt, we got THE CALL. We were matched with our sweet baby boy and we couldn't believe it! 4 months later, on January 15, 2015, our long-awaited rainbow, Miles Ezra Piston, was born! A rainbow isn't a replacement or a bandage for a wound- a rainbow is just an insanely beautiful gift after a storm (or in our case, years of storms).

Miles is two now and brightens every aspect of our days. He is kind, empathetic, goofy, athletic, and so smart. We are the proudest parents in the world and cannot believe God entrusted him to us. He is everything we didn't know we needed. Our rainbow is not typical- but, then again, neither is our journey.

We do not know why God has not chosen to save any of our biological babies, but I do know that I can look into my son’s eyes and see that God cares deeply about my heart’s longing to be a mother.

Miles is brighter then any rainbow I could have ever imagined, and I am incredibly grateful for the journey, heartache, growth, and ultimate joy of being his mommy.

Now, we're in the adoption journey for a second time and have great hope that we can grow our family through this crazy process. Ultimately, no matter how our rainbows come to us, they are undoubtedly life’s greatest gifts of grace and joy that a person can have.

If you are experiencing child loss {infant loss, stillbirth, miscarriage}, infertility, adoption loss, or any other kind of wound in the journey of motherhood and would love to have support from women who understand- please contact Kristin at MendMinistries@gmail, or find us on Facebook: Mend Ministries

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HAVE A BLAST AT ONE OF OUR NEWLY THEMED PARTIES!

PRIVATE BIRTHDAY PARTIES

for boys and girls of all ages!

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CHEER for ages 3 & Up:

H Competitive Cheer Teams H Cheer and Tumble training Classes H Stunting H School Prep Classes H Boys Tumbling H Boys Transformer Classes

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H Competitive Dance Teams H Combo classes for beginner dancers H Technique Classes for all levels H Recital Classes H Boys Transformer Class

NEW LOCATION! Come see our brand new state of the art facility!

479.715.6840 305 SE 22nd Street BENTONVILLE

40 February 2017

www.infinitiathletics.com

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42 February 2017

Peekaboo's

ULTIMATE

GUIDE

No birthday would be complete without a birthday party -- so we are excited to share this annual birthday guide filled with top party places.

Make sure to save this guide to refer to when you have that special celebration coming up - whether for a birthday or a “just because.” Don’t forget, when you book your party, let them know that Peekaboo sent you!

PIGTAILS & CREWCUTS pigtailsandcrewcuts/fayetteville pigtailsandcrewcuts/rogers (479) 935-4121 / (479) 633-8999

ls & Crewcuts!

When it comes to kids' birthday parties, Pigtails & Crewcuts is the place to be! Their salon has a room, so, whether a party rties,party Pigtails & Crewcuts is you the need place to fit for a princess, a pampering spa party or anything whether you need a party fit for a in between, they can customize the party your r anything between. child is in dreaming of. We can customize Contact us today for more information!

enjoy

prises

party $25 off a birthday

Parties at Fun City are super fun! Our parties make for precious memories with family and friends at a price that parents love, too. We have packages for every budget. Includes a private party room, pizza, tokens, birthday invites, SPIN on Birthday Wheel for birthday child, and more!

Cannot be used for after hours parties. Not valid with other offers. Valid at Fayetteville and Rogers locations ONLY. EXP: 4/30/2017

03 • 479.935.4121 • pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/fayetteville AR 72858 • 479.633.8999 • pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/rogers

FUN CITY www.funcitypizza.com (479) 872-7529

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GUIDE

Peekaboo's

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS

SUPER SCIENCE NWA www.super-sci.com 479-444-0303 LOKOMOTION 4520 N. College, Fayetteville lokomotion.com (479) 582-5656 There is a reason why Lokomotion is considered the #1 destination for family fun--we have it all!

From Go-Karts to Lazer Tag, from arcade games to an award-winning golf course, we provide the facilities and entertainment for all ages.

Rides, games, party rooms, Lazer Tag, and the all new Spin Zone.

National Science Presenter, Stephen Warren Cox, brings the big show to your child’s birthday party at the venue of your choice. From the humblest at-home party to the grandest main stage indoor/outdoor show, Super Science has an entertaiment plan to fit your needs. You can even embelish your party with a cool add-on, like an awesome Laser Show or Electrostatic Generator that makes your hair stand up.

next group 10% your or birthday party off Coupon Code: Peek10

Tactical Laser Tag Huge Outdoor Battlefield Indoor Battlefield Objective Based Missions Bubble Soccer

3484 E. Joyce Blvd Fayetteville, AR 44 February 2017

479.595.0055 ModernMission.com

exp. 3/31/2018

PRINCESS PARTY PALACE NWA 925 College Ave., Fayetteville, 813 W Central Ave #15, Bentonville princesspartypalacenwa.com • (479) 799-6133 Make your child’s dreams come true by giving them a party at the Princess Party Palace - a new 1500 square foot upscale party event center specializing in custom children’s birthday parties and events hosted by your favorite fairy tale princesses. Your little princess will have a magical experience meeting their favorite princess characters played by professionally trained entertainers from some of the nation’s top performing arts schools. These entertainers have over five years of party planning experience and over 10 years of professional acting, theme park, and musical theater experience. Party options include the spa package, princess tea party, royal ball, and One-derland!

My daughter opted for a Little Mermaid theme, and Autumn with Princess Party Palace made party planning a dream. She provided all of the flatware, tableware, table decorations and banners in colors that coordinated with my theme.

Ariel entered the party and my daughter was just transfixed and glowing. All of our royal guests were welcomed to change into princess gowns or superhero capes. Ariel then led the children through a craft activity (making tiaras and masks) and getting glitter tattoos and applying make-up for those who wanted. She also led the children in singing songs, story time and a dance party. We wrapped up with a coronation ceremony where Mallory was crowned with a sparkly tiara. The team at Princess Party Palace made Mallory feel so incredibly special and took the lead in controlling the flow and timing of the party and making sure all our guests were having so much fun.

Jenny Champlin

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SIMAGINE T U D STUDIOS I S 5212 Village Parkway, Suite 11, Rogers 3017 N. College Ave. Fayetteville 479-619-6085 imaginestudiosnwa.com Looking to throw a fun and creative birthday party? Or maybe you're planning a bridal shower or a team building event! Let the party experts at Imagine Studios help. Whether you book a birthday party, join a kids art class, or join us for a girls crafting night out, you'll be sure to make lasting memories when you paint at Imagine Studios. We even do field trips. We can come to you, or you can bring your class to us. At Imagine Studios, we put the ART in pARTy. Book your next birthday party with us! Our party experts will take care of the kids and guide them through the art project while mom and dad enjoy time taking pictures and talking with guests. Our parties are best for ages 4 and up. We can work

46 February 2017

with any theme. The birthday child chooses the art project--from a wide selection of pottery, or you can do canvas painting, tie-dye, purses, picture frames, wood crafting, and more. We even provide all of your party supplies, including invitations, and do all of your set up and clean up; you just need to provide the cake and drinks.

With more than 10 years of birthday party experience, your child's party at Imagine Studios will help you turn imagination into memories.

For more information, visit our webpage imaginestudiosnwa.com. You can also sign up to receive our newsletter or follow us on Facebook. Walk-in painters are welcome during all business hours or you can schedule time for a private group. We do recommend reservations for groups of 6 or more.

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YOUNG CHEFS ACADEMY OF ROGERS 5208 Village Parkway Suite 6, Rogers (479) 401-2006 • youngchefsacademy.com

Come celebrate your child’s birthday and let him/her be the “CHEF OF THE DAY” at Young Chefs Academy!

All Birthday Parties are filled with interactive & amusing activities for your child and their friends to stay entertained and engaged. Young Chefs Academy offers an “ALLINCLUSIVE” party packages, where you supply the chefs and we supply the rest! They will introduce each guest to some essential culinary skills as they make their very own “creation” from scratch, all while being provided hands-on instruction by our lively party hosts!

“We had my daughter’s 8th birthday party at Young Chefs Academy. The staff and owners were amazing and very helpful. All the girls had a great time. Quote from the birthday girl as we were leaving, “Best Birthday Party EVER!!!” Thank you so much. We are really excited to come back for classes” Sarah Busby Pigo

ATA MARTIAL ARTS Bentonville: (479) 273-1212 atabentonville.com Fayetteville: (479) 443-5425 atafayetteville.com Have a martial arts-themed party for kids interested in Karate and Taekwondo. Let your child kick, jump, tumble and celebrate their birthday all at the same time! ATA’s team of instructors will create an unforgettable experience for your child.

BOLT NWA 2618 SE J St . Bentonville www.boltnwa.com BoltNWA! is unlike any other attraction in Bentonville. They turn your party into an interactive entertainment experience that combines logical puzzles, critical thinking, and team coorperation, with all the flair of a scene straight out of a Hollywood blockbuster. It’s your friends in a race against the clock to escape.

AMAZEUM 1009 Museum Way (J St & Museum Way) Bentonville www.Amazeum.org Looking for a remarkable birthday experience?

Host your kiddo’s next birthday party at the Scott Family Amazeum! Not only will you have a great party in the party room, but all of your guests will get to play at the Amazeum after the party. Room set-up/clean-up. Party crown for the birthday child. Party favor for each child.

THE LITTLE GYM 2603 Pleasant Grove Rd., Rogers 479-636-5566 Nothing captures the magic of childhood better than a birthday party -- especially one that they will never forget! For children ages 1 - 12 years old. You will receive the entire facility to yourself and your guests, music, and fun created just for your child, with no worries about set-up or clean-up! peekaboonwa.com

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48 February 2017

Peekaboo's

HAPPY FEET (479) 553-8810 • NWAHappyFeet.com Add fitness and fun to your next party with a HappyFeet Soccer Party! HappyFeet coaches offer an action-packed experience for your special day! Happy Feet classes and parties are designed to build off the developing imagination of preschoolers, which means guaranteed fun!

SCHOOL OF ROCK www.schoolofrock.com (479) 936-8838

GUIDE Imagine... you and your friends.... Rock stars! Our professional music instructors will introduce party goers to popular rock songs, teach individuals (regardless of musical experience) to sing the song or play an instrument, and perform the song together at a rock show as the highlight of the party!

JUNQUE2JEWELS 210 W New Hope Rd, Rogers www.junque2jewels.com The perfect party space for tweens! Creative environment to inspire young artists, a variety of projects available. They provide the instructions, and all materials for a completed project. $20 per child, minimum of 10 kiddos.

You can bring in food, drinks, cake & presents if you would like. info@junque2jewels.com

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GUIDE

Peekaboo's

PLAYSTRONG KIDS 3625 W. Chesnut, Rogers (479) 246-1040 • playstrongtherapy.com PAINTING WITH A TWIST 1401 SE Walton Blvd, Ste 111, Bentonville (479) 254-1997 1404 N College Ave, Fayetteville (479) 966-4222 paintingwithatwist.com

“We LOVE PlayStrong! Such an awesome facility with the best staff around. They truly have the whole child in mind and offer each one exactly what they need to succeed.”

Jenny Castillo, mother of Santi, Bella, and Alex Castillo and owner of Casa Castillo

You pick the painting from their library of over 7,000 paintings.

Each party includes a fabulous instructor providing you stepby-step instruction. You have the room for 30 minutes before and 30 minutes after the class to decorate, mingle, and celebrate. Kid’s parties require a minimum of 10 guests.

“Best birthday party EVER!!!!”

Santi Castillo, 5 years old

STARLIGHT SKATIUM 612 N. College Ave., Fayetteville 479-444-7827 starlightskatium.com Most of us remember celebrating at least one birthday at a local skating rink, and now your children can, too! Choose between a pizza party, an Ultimate Sk8r Party, and a private kid’s birthday party. All include admission and skate rental for your child and guests, a reserved party table, party favors, and classic games like limbo and the hokeypokey played in your child’s honor.

BENTONVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER 1101 SW Citizens Cir Bentonville, Arkansas 72712 (479) 696-0200 www.bentonvillear.com 50 February 2017

Parties include 90 minutes of exclusive rental of our gym or art area and use of our birthday room to eat cake and open presents. We provide all the materials, including 1 dozen balloons, table clothes, plates, napkins, plasticware and drinks. All you need to do tell us what you want, show up, bring the cake, and we handle the rest! Even better, you don’t even have to clean up afterwards.

Basic Package: Private Party for 1 1/2 hours.

Gym play with organized games. Use of the birthday room for cake and presents with balloons, table cloth, plates, napkins, silverware, and drinks provided.

Every kid would love a pool party, but winter birthdays make it nearly impossible. Host your next birthday party at the Bentonville Community Center! Their pool party room is the perfect space for guests to enjoy games, cake, and fun! The zero depth entry pool features water slides, an adventure river, and play structures.

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52 February 2017

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new upscale party event center specializing in custom children’s birthday parties hosted by your favorite fairy tale princesses.

Now offering full service parties at our new party palace or let us bring the magic to you with character appearances at a location of your choice!

NOW TAKING PARTY BOOKINGS! DOUBLE the throne size, DOUBLE the amount and size of chandeliers, DOUBLE the stage size...

New Location Now Open in Bentonville!

813 W. Central, Ste 15, Bentonville Info@PrincessPartyPalaceNWA.com

Info@PrincessPartyPalaceNWA.com

www.PrincessPartyPalaceNWA.com www.PrincessPartyPalaceNWA.com peekaboonwa.com

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Peekaboo's

GUIDE

IMAGINE A CHILD’S ADVENTURE WORLD 3801 Johnson Mill Blvd Fayetteville 479-249-8020 imagineadventureworld.com

MALCO THEATRES, INC www.malco.com What is better than a movie with your best friends? A birthday party room, party host, and tickets to the movie that include a drink and box of popcorn! You can even opt for a private screening to make your child feel like a true VIP.

Imagine A Child’s Adventureworld is a place where imagination and play come to life, and a party where kids actually spend time playing together and being creative. There is a market where kids can grocery shop, a racetrack, a construction area, a fire station, a large wooden train and a cottage. In these imaginative little worlds, kids can be whoever they want to be and explore each area, making the whole experience one that is exciting, creative and interactive.

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS

SP EC TACU LA R SC IE N CE AN D LE AR N IN G School Assemblies & Workshops • Special Events & Camps Corporate/Non-Profit Presentations • Awesome Party Concept

www.super-sci.com • 479-444-0303 54 February 2017

FAST LANE ENTERTAINMENT 1117 N. Dixieland St., Lowell 479-659-0999 • fastlanebowl.com Let Fast Lane Entertainment take care of all of your birthday party needs. Birthday parties at Fast Lane Entertainment are stress-free with birthday party hosts that handle all of the set-up and clean up. All of our birthday parties include plates, cups, napkins, forks, tablecloths, balloons, candles, drinks and pizza! All you need to bring is the birthday cake, the guests and your camera to capture the unforgettable memories that will be made while celebrating your child’s birthday party at Fast Lane Entertainment. Fast Lane Entertainment has been voted Northwest Arkansas’ best place to have a birthday party 7 years in a row.

HAPPY FEET (479) 553-8810 NWAHappyFeet.com Add fitness and fun to your next party with a HappyFeet Soccer Party! HappyFeet coaches offer an action-packed experience for your special day! Happy Feet classes and parties are designed to build off the developing imagination of preschoolers, which means guaranteed fun!

COMING SOON! www.cardmyyard.com

Skip the Card, Stake the Yard! Card My Yard is a 24 hour yard greeting service that specializes in making your celebration extra special.

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February

Early Learner Programs @

1009 MUSEUM WAY • BENTONVILLE, AR AMAZEUM.ORG • 479-696-9280

STEAM Studio Every Thursday in February 10 am - noon Family-led STEAM themed developmentally appropriate learning FREE no registration required

Great Pretenders (3-5 years + caregiver) Sensory Play: Texture! February 15, Encore February 16 10-11 am $10 members/$15 non members

Baby Buds (6-17 mos + caregiver) Sensory Play: Texture!

February 1, Encore February 2 10-11 am $10 members/$15 non members

Zing Adventures (4-6 years + caregiver) Instrumental Exploration!

February 25, 9-10 am Encore February 25, 11 am-noon $10 members/$15 nonmembers

Discovery Tots (18-36 mos + caregiver) Sensory Play: Texture! February 8, Encore February 9 10-11 am $10 members/$15 non members 56 February 2017

Baby Buds, Discovery Tots, Great Pretenders and Zing Adventures require advanced registration and payment: amazeum.org/events-andprograms/early-learners/

GUIDE

Peekaboo's

16:9 ENTERTAINMENT, LLC 169entertainment.com 479-601-5196 ARKADIA RETROCADE 1478 N. College Ave. Fayetteville (479) 445-7844 A birthday party at Arkadia Retrocade, located in Fayetteville, is the perfect choice f​or any family looking to both get their little gamers out of the house and up the nostalgia factor. The range of games available shows classic gaming at its finest, from Frogger and Donkey Kong to Space Invaders and Galaga. Glowing reviews by patrons highlight the accommodating staff and extensive snack shack, as well as the variety of games and wallet-friendly $5/person entry fee. Arkadia proves that the family that games together, stays together!

16:9 Entertainment, LLC offers a variety of unique pieces of equipment from inflatable bounce houses, slides, and combos to mechanical bulls and mechanical hogs. They even have a 30' outdoor movie system. Call or text 479-6015196 or by emailing info@169entertainment. com. Cleanest equipment, friendly and professional staff, and can create an event that will give your kids memories for a lifetime!

MODERN MISSION 3484 E Joyce Blvd, Fayetteville (479) 595-0055 . Modernmission.com INFINITI 305 SE 22nd St. Suite 11 Bentonville, AR 72712 www.infinitiathletics.com/ Busy parents of active kids don't always have time to meticulously plan the kind of memorable birthday party they'd like to. Enter iNFiNiTi Dance Cheer & Tumble's birthday packages!

In a small fraction of the time that it takes to pipe Pinterest-worthy icing decorations on sixty identical cupcakes, you can call iNFiNiTi, pick the date and the birthday package, and set your mind at ease that your kids will be fed, entertained, and exhausted from all the fun they'll have on their birthday! Various options include a bouncy house, birthday invitations, cake and pizza, goody bags, and choreographed dance lessons.

Indoor parties, outdoor parties and archery/ bubble soccer parties! Your birthday party will be greeted by a Field Marshall that will help you and your party get trained and into the battle.

There is no birthday party experience quite like the one you’ll find at Modern Mission!

Local moms voted Modern Mission as a winner in the Best Kids’ Birthday Place category in the 2016 Annual Mom-Approved Awards.

We have several options for indoor & outdoor birthday party packages for groups of at least 10 players. Parties include online party invitations, party tables/rooms, and weapon upgrades for the birthday VIP, and more!

Don’t just take our word for it, though! This is what Kendra Cowan had to say recently about her son’s birthday party: “We came to Modern Mission for my son’s birthday. It was a blast! I’ve played laser tag before but it was nothing like this. It was intense! We will be back! Thanks for the great service and time.”

Join the mission!

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DAD'S VIEW

FIRST PLACE #1 BY

BEN LACY You know, the span of months when we hit the questionably relevant string of “holidays.”

Valentine’s, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day…events that seem to have a serious retail marketing slant.

Definitely not up to par with the dominant trifecta of Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas that all now sadly appear in our rear view mirror.

AH, THE START OF FEBRUARY AND MY LEAST FAVORITE TIME OF THE YEAR: HALLMARK SEASON.

February is usually a difficult time ‘round the Lacy home. There’s an implied understanding that this is the month of love and thy spouse shalt be showered with gifts and, much more importantly, attention.

It is also the middle of youth basketball season, start of youth baseball and full-on dance season at our house. Oh yeah, and work really kicks it into 5th gear each early spring. Our schedule probably includes about a dozen other things I’m forgetting, but I shudder and curl up in a ball if the queen gives me the full family schedule. As I’ve told her, just list me as “day-to-day.” Anyway, all of this over-scheduling is not conducive to marital bliss.

Sometime around the middle of the month there is bound to be an explosion that would make the Manhattan Project sound like a whimper. The 58 February 2017

blast is aimed at me and detonated by the Mrs. She’s not entirely in the wrong for erupting and the problem isn’t entirely my fault, but it goes something like this…

“You spent Friday night at baseball practice, all day Saturday at a basketball tournament, Sunday your parents were here, Monday was dance try-outs and Tuesday and Wednesday you had people in from Corporate. It is now February 17th and we’ve done nothing together... I WAS HERE FIRST!” Ah, there it is. Forget about all the issues you have as a parent with the whole birth order equation.

You know, there’s the baby of the family, the kid that is old enough to know better and the oh-soput-upon middle child. Nope, the real combustion occurs with the one-who-was-here-first: Mom, mama, the queen, she-who-shall-be-obeyed, the Mrs., the wife.

Let’s not get too much into the birds and bees here; after all, this is a family magazine. But I can definitely answer the riddle, which came first, the chicken or the egg. It’s the chicken, and you would be wise to remember that.

You see, in this day and age, most of us ‘Mericans have adopted the Little Emperor syndrome from our friends in the Orient. Meaning, we focus more on our children than on ourselves, and definitely more than on the relationship with our spouse.

Bummer that we’ve selected this concept from our Far East friends since, in my opinion, they have about a hundred good ideas we should be borrowing from them – but this ain’t one of em’.

Okay, jumping off my America-bashing and geopolitical musings soap box. You should take anything governmental, political or economic I say with a grain of salt (and a slice of lime, and a gallon of tequila).

But as usual I’m all over the place, so here’s this month’s message. Guys, do SOMETHING this month to show her she is #1. After (shockingly) keeping the same woman moderately amused for over 25 years, I can tell you this – it doesn’t have to be much. It doesn’t take a new car or “ice” or a trip to somewhere where every drink comes with a little umbrella--it just takes a bit of time and attention. As I tell the kids I coach, “the best ability is availability.” Just show up, and you’re 90% there.

So, at some point this month make sure you remind her she is the #1 most important human in your life. Yes, I said human, because there’s also your dog – and well, that’s something different all together!

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THE BIRTH OF

Stella Grace Wagner I

t was the day before my due date, and I hadn’t felt any signs that labor was coming anytime soon.

Lots of random Braxton Hicks contractions, but definitely no big deal. The next morning I woke up and went to the bathroom. I noticed the typical bloody show/ mucus plug. Funny how such a gross thing can make you so excited! But, two days later, despite the contractions, they were still not significant and I was still pregnant. Miserable. I realized I was probably dealing with prodromal labor.

STORY BY JESSICA WAGNER • PHOTO BY BEAUTY OF GRACE PHOTOGRAPHY- JESSICA WAGNER

TUESDAY (3-22-16)

(3:30pm)

I went to my appointment at the Birth Center of Northwest Arkansas (located an hour and ten minutes away from our home). I met a new midwife whose first day was that very day. I was dilated to a 4! She did a membrane sweep and we were on our way home. My midwife told me she wouldn’t be surprised if we came in that night/early the next morning, but for us to go home and

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sleep. Contractions were kind of picking up, but nothing unbearable. I labored for 24 hours with my first, so I was prepared for a long labor again.

(10pm)

We finally went to bed. David went right to sleep, as I wanted him to be as rested as possible for the drive if things picked up.

I pulled the breast pump out to see if it would help get things going a bit. I only did it for

about 10 minutes and decided to lay down. I couldn’t sleep.

Contractions were obviously getting stronger.

About 12:15AM I texted my doula a screenshot of my contraction timer app and asked if I should call or maybe take a bath and see if they would die down again. She mentioned either option would be okay, so I decided to take a bath. I wasn’t convinced that anything was going to come of it yet.

(1:30)

I woke David up to help me cope and to call the midwife. My contractions were 2-3 minutes apart and strong!

(1:40)

We started grabbing things and calling friends to come and watch our two-year-old Ruth so we could leave.

(2:20)

I started having a hard time getting from one room to another and getting things together to leave. We realized we didn’t have time to wait for anyone. Ruth was going with us!

(2:30)

We were on the road and Ruth was safely buckled in the backseat.

My labor music was playing so I was good! Even though I had contractions every minute at this point I was still convinced I had plenty of time left.

(2:55)

My birth photographer called me and asked where we were and how things were going. On the phone I started having a contraction and all I could say was “I feel like I have to push.”

I heard David say “Seriously?!” in disbelief... then it happened.

That uncontrollable, bear down feeling hit me. So my gentle moans and coping sounds turned into all out roar of fear. I was seriously about to have this baby in the car. We hadn’t even made it to the state line yet!

BIRTH PHOTOS BY: ANGELINA LOPEZ PHOTOGRAPHY

The next few minutes were a blur.

The 20 minutes left in the car felt like 10 hours. David was going about 90 through a 45. Angelina, the photographer, stayed on the phone with us, prayed with me and truly was a Godsend during this time.

Five minutes before we got to the center I ripped off my seat belt (I can’t believe I kept it on that long!) got on my knees in the seat, my face in the back seat floorboard, bottom in the air, growling through each contraction. Ruth woke up from the back seat and asked if I was okay.. I managed to let her know I was fine and that baby Stella was coming. After that every moan and growl was followed up

by Ruth laughing and squealing back! I felt a pop and GUSH!

Then it stopped. My water broke, but Stella’s head quickly plugged me back up.

(3:15)

WE FINALLY MADE IT! But I couldn’t move. I couldn’t get out of the car! The midwives rushed out to coax me out and could feel her head bulging. I cowboy waddled all the way into the building and into the room.

They helped me rip my pants off and I crawled on the bed.

(3:25am)

Ten minutes later and a few more contractions… STELLA ARRIVED! So perfect and so impatient! We made it to the birth center with 10 MINUTES to spare!

This birth proved to me how no matter how much you plan for something, babies have their own ideas of how they will be born! I didn’t even get a chance to try much of my hypnobabies or try for a water birth. My doula and her assistant didn’t make it until after she arrived, but they were able to help me cope with the stitching up afterwards. Stella was healthy, things went smoothly and Ruth got to be involved! peekaboonwa.com

61

Kylee’s Voice

How one child inspired the creation of a new regional program

A

s a child nears his or her first birthday, parents begin to anxiously await their child’s first word. That first word marks the beginning of an exciting time of learning, where children learn to express their wants, needs, and ideas, and perhaps most importantly, say words like ‘mama,’ ‘daddy,’ and ‘I love you.’

Sometimes, however, that first word doesn’t come and parents must embark on a different, but just as amazing journey.

As a speech-language pathologist who works with children who have a wide variety of communication impairments, I have the opportunity to guide parents and children through this journey. I want to share a true story about a little girl who uses Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) to communicate. At 8 months old, Kylee was diagnosed with bilateral closed lip schizencephaly and cerebral palsy. These diagnoses meant that she may never walk or talk. However, her family was desperate to communicate with her and determined to provide her with every opportunity possible.

I introduced her to AAC. AAC is a term that is used to describe various methods of communication that can be used to help individuals with communication impairments who are unable to reliably use verbal speech to communicate.

At first, Kylee used a picture exchange system where she requested wanted items or activities by selecting pictures velcroed in a book and handing them to her communication partner. As her vocabulary grew to over 50 words, it quickly became evident that another system was needed. It was a long process, but Kylee now has a high-tech AAC device, which is a computer that speaks as she pushes buttons on When I met Kylee two the screen. This computer gives years ago, she was Kylee access to over 3,000 words! unable to communicate When she first started using the at all. She was three device, she said only a few words, years old and made no but now, she is able to formulate sounds other than crying. sentences, answer questions, Searching for a way to and most importantly…tell us how help Kylee communicate much she likes cookies and ice her wants and needs, cream! her mother brought her to Children’s Kylee’s success inspired me Therapy TEAM, where to build an AAC program at TEAM, so that other kids in Northwest Arkansas would have the opportunity to try various WHAT IS AAC? options for communication. When Augmentative and Alternative Communication I became a pediatric speech(AAC) refers to methods of communication other language pathologist, I aimed to than speech that can be used to help people with make a positive difference in the lives of children and their families. communication impairments who are unable to After helping Kylee, it is clear that reliably use verbal speech to communicate. AAC the determination of the children can benefit a wide range of individuals (children and their families are the ones making the difference in my life as and adults) with a wide range of diagnoses such as they inspire me to continue finding cerebral palsy, autism, developmental disability, and ways to help every child learn to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. AAC includes a wide communicate.

variety of methods of communication, with or without external materials or equipment, such as vocalizations, facial expressions, gestures, sign language, pictures, books, and/or computers.

62 February 2017

By Lynsey Decator, CCC-SLP pictured with Kylee who is having fun communicating with her while lying on a clinic trompoline

NWA’s

ONLY

Comprehensive AAC Program

serving children throughout the region

Kylee

Inspired by great kids!

Call 521-TEAM or visit ChildrensTherapyTEAM.com

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R

R

MOM in the KNOW

Lake Atalanta

BY CHRISTY MARTIN PHOTOS BY CHRISTY MARTIN PHOTOGRAPHY

A

lone with a car full of wiggly kids and a low phone battery, I was relieved to see Lake Atalanta signs after passing through downtown Rogers. With only an hour left of daylight, we chose to explore the playground and lake side. Although the grounds didn't at first resemble a 'normal' playground, we quickly fell in love with all the natural space between each activity.

The slides blended into the natural settings around us. The other stations were designed so simply, I felt more like I was enjoying the outdoors than sitting at a playground. There was a beautiful

stone structure with water flowing in front that would be ideal for a picnic or even family photos! With the sun starting to set, we used the paved trails to take a walk around the lake. I loved how there was a high fence around the deeper part of Lake Atalanta to keep the children safe. It allowed for a very peaceful walk as we watched the skies transform into a beautiful pink and purple glow.

I look forward to our next adventure to Lake Atalanta! Next time, I'll certainly pack snacks, allow more time and discover the bridge across the street!

Little Free Pantry - Siloam Springs 617 N. Mt. Olive Street A great way to lead by example and allow your children an opportunity to help their community is by donating to the Little Free Pantry in Siloam Springs.

The Little Free Pantry in Siloam Springs is a place for anyone to take away food and non-perishable items as needed, at any time. Take what you need, leave what you can! This past holiday season people donated coats and toys to make everyone's Christmas a little warmer.

Items to consider donating: Canned goods such as: meats/tuna/chicken, soups, fruit, vegetables, beans, Rice, Peanut butter, Jelly, Snacks (granola or snack bars, nuts, crackers, etc), Olive or canola oil, Salt and pepper, SMALL packages of diapers and wipes or hygiene products For more information about the Little Free Pantry movement, visit: littlefreepantry.org 64 February 2017

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65

BREATHE EASY Your Guide to Identifying and Avoiding Pneumonia this Winter

C

old and flu season can hit your family hard in the winter. As the months of cold and damp weather wear on, immune systems become more compromised and more serious illnesses can enter the picture. Nearly three million cases of pneumonia are reported in the U.S. each year, with the highest percentages of cases found in small children and the elderly.

“Children under age 12 are still developing their immune systems, making them more susceptible to pneumonia,” says Dr. Sarah Worley, internal medicine physician, who practices at Northwest Medical Plaza – Eastside in Springdale. “They are also less likely to be vigilant about hand-washing and nose-blowing, making them more prone to contract the viruses and bacteria that can lead to pneumonia.”

The majority of pneumonia cases in children and younger adults are known as ‘community acquired pneumonia’ (CAP), and are separated into two categories – viral and bacterial. Learning how to prevent, identify and treat the different types of pneumonia will help you and your family breathe easier this winter.

Viral Pneumonia As the name suggests, viral pneumonia is caused by some form of viral infection. According to the American Lung Association, most pneumonia in children is caused by viral infections. In children under age one, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause of viral pneumonia.

Because viral pneumonia cannot be cured with antibiotics, the virus must run its course, and may take longer to resolve than the bacterial form. Supportive treatments can be very effective, including the use of nebulizers for easier breathing and steroid intervention to speed healing and bring relief to the lungs. Antibiotics should only be used if there are signs of a secondary infection, such as an ear infection.

66 February 2017

Bacterial Pneumonia There are many different bacterial infections that can lead to pneumonia. Streptococcus pneumonia is the most common source of community acquired bacterial pneumonia.

Mycoplasma pneumonia – also known as ‘walking pneumonia’ – is caused by bacteria called mycoplasmas. While the symptoms of this strain can be milder and less debilitating, mycoplasma pneumonia is contagious and can last much longer than other forms of the illness. Physicians will typically treat any type of bacterial pneumonia with antibiotics, and a return to health can be expected in 1 to 2 weeks (4 to 6 weeks for mycoplasma pneumonia).

Initial symptoms of pneumonia often look much the same as the flu or common cold: fever, cough, and nasal and chest congestion. In some patients, however, the only symptom is unusually rapid breathing and/or breathing accompanied by a wheezing or grunting sound. If your doctor suspects pneumonia, they will likely order a chest X-ray for confirmation before prescribing further diagnostics and treatment. Especially in children or the elderly, the physician may want to monitor the patient’s oxygen levels. If they fall too low, the patient may be admitted to the hospital for closer monitoring of the treatment.

Most physicians agree that immunizations are the best line of defense for preventing pneumonia, and are highly recommended for those with more fragile or compromised immune systems.

“In many cases, pneumonia can be prevented by ensuring that your child’s vaccines are current,” says Dr. Worley. “Haemophilus influenza Type b, pneumococcal, pertussis, measles and flu vaccines all help you avoid some of the most common illnesses that can lead to pneumonia.”

It’s also important to encourage more vigilant hygiene habits during cold and flu season.

Washing hands, cleaning household and

Dr. Sarah Worley is accepting new patients. To request an appointment, call 479-757-5026 or visit NW-Physicians.com.

“In many cases, pneumonia can be prevented by ensuring that your child’s vaccines are current.� workplace surfaces, and using tools like humidifiers to enhance proper breathing will all work to eliminate germs and prevent their spread. Maintaining proper diet and exercise habits are also important in the winter months.

These basic and obvious lifestyle choices will give your immune system an edge and make you less likely to contract a virus of any sort. If you do get a cold or virus, be sure to aggressively treat and eliminate mucus before it can fester into an infection.

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How We Met

It is amazing to look back and see just how God orchestrates the movements in the lives of various people to make everything fall into place at just the right time, and in just the right place. It seems like that was BY: TODD HOOK exactly the case with me and my wife's story.

We first met in line at Wendy's, after church, one late summer night in Memphis. Many from the church singles group had gone there to grab a bite to eat and socialize for a bit. I was new to town, an introverted first year optometry student just starting school, and Holly and her boyfriend were in line in front of me. She introduced herself and her fiancé, and they both seemed nice enough. We did not become overly close however--I ended up mostly on the periphery of the group for that first year due to juggling the demands of school against whatever little social life I could muster.

She and I didn't realize it at the time, but we had come very close to meeting before. During the summer of 1983, she was actually living with her dad in Bentonville as he worked to build Mr. Sam's giant new warehouse. We attended church together in Bentonville, but as she was about to enter college and I was entering high school, we had no knowledge of each other, much less

any interest in each other.

Her family almost moved to Bentonville permanently at the end of that summer, but her dad suffered a heart attack, and they ended up staying put in Memphis.

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My second year of optometry school was so much more demanding than the first--I felt the entire weight of professional school as if it were crushing me. Holly was there for me, as we were a part of a small prayer group at church. I told her about all those trials that were going on with school, and she and others were there praying for me the whole way through. Eventually, I survived that year and then headed back home to Bentonville for the summer. Holly also continued on with her life, using her summers to do mission work in the Ukraine.

She and her fiancé had the perfect setup as they were both schoolteachers, which left both of them with summers free to do such mission work.

I returned to school for my third year, and one of the first Sundays back to church I ran into Holly.

I immediately noticed something different about her, though, from a clinical point of view. Her eye was very red and irritated, and I convinced her that it was something serious enough that she needed to get it checked out by a surgeon. She found out that she had a pterygium, a benign conjunctival growth that can eventually grow further out onto the cornea and cause permanent vision complications. Most of the time they aren't too big of a deal, but this one looked aggressive.

Holly eventually searched out and visited a cosmetic surgeon who performed the initial surgery. Unfortunately, the growth returned almost immediately. She then found an ophthalmologist who performed a second surgery.

The growth returned again, almost immediately. A third surgery had to be performed, and this time it was going to involve radiation therapy to keep it from returning. That made it seem so much more serious. In the midst of these troubling health issues she and her fiancé broke up, leaving her without his support.

I returned from Thanksgiving break and got the scoop from Holly about her need for another surgery and the radiation. I also realized that she was no longer engaged, so I figured, "Why not?”

and asked her out. Our first date almost didn't happen because I was tied up at the clinic at school and got away late. A quick stop at Subway and a change of plans to catch a movie worked in a pinch though. We ended up dating that winter, and I was there for her throughout the final surgery process, being both her advocate at the doctor appointments and support during the radiation that ensued.

That spring, a number of friends from the singles group at church took a ski trip over spring break to Taos, New Mexico. The majority of the group drove to New Mexico, but Holly flew, as did her exfiancĂŠ. It seemed that he had had a change of heart, and was again pursuing Holly. I was so frustrated about this new, disquieting situation, that one night I took a long walk around town in the snow to gather my thoughts. In the end, I decided that it was a fight worth fighting, and a couple of months later their relationship ended for good, leaving Holly and I happily together.

I still perceived our overall situation to be potentially precarious however as I was about to leave Memphis for six months in order to perform extern rotations in Fayetteville and Las Vegas.

Holly, after all, had expressed concern about long distance relationships. I had made up my mind, however, that I wanted to be with her, and I did not

want to take any chances of failure. Shortly before I was to leave for Vegas, Holly came to Bentonville to visit for the weekend. In my pocket was an engagement ring that Overstreet's had so kindly helped me secure, and I popped the question over dinner that evening.

Her exact words in response to my proposal were, "I'm going to throw up," which I didn't find very encouraging. Even more alarming was the fact that when Holly says she is going to throw up she means it. We hustled out of the restaurant and, after a long talk sitting on the lake shore, I got the "yes" I was hoping for. The date was set for the following June and, once that month arrived, within the span of a few weeks I had graduated optometry school, we were married, then moved to Bentonville, where we have lived ever since. Twenty years and two kids later, we marvel at the crazy, crooked, roller-coaster of a road that we have traveled on to get to this point today... but we realize, with infinite gratitude, that everything was part of the master plan God had for us all along.

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At a

Glance ARTS and MUSIC

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PEDIATRICIAN

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