Sacramento Parent December 2017 by Sacramento Parent

parent December 2017

A FLurry of Holiday Treats & Fun

AROUND THE WORLD & BACK AGAIN

sacramentoparent.com

HEALTHY AND HAPPY HEARTS

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DECEMBER 2017

parent

on our cover

December 2017

This family of five lives in Land Park and loves walking to their favorite local spots, including Marie’s Donuts! (Pictured: Jen and Matt, Bennett (6), Marlowe (4) and Ollie (16 months). Photography by: Lifestyle by Tavio | LifestyleByTavio.com

contents DECEMBER 2017

departments

features

around town

9 CRAFTY

11 17 24

18 HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Cute Felt Coffee Cozies

14 NEXT DOOR

Welcome Back to Winter, Watts Family

Savanna’s Heart of Gold A Collaborative Divorce Option

20 CALENDAR ‘Tis the Season to Play Together

22 ON REPEAT

23 LET’S GO

Oh What Fun!

Games to Ring in the New Year

Seasonal Must Do’s

Ice Skates & Figure 8s

26 SHOWS

Nutcracker & More

27 EXHIBITS A Moment in Time

• Free Train Ride around Folsom City Park (up to 500 guests) • Sacramento Parent's Cover Search for an Expecting Mama • Amazing Prizes, entertainers, local exhibitors and more! 4

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Here, There, Monsterously Cool Camps Everywhere Year-round camps that parents and kids love LOCATIONS IN:

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DECEMBER 2017

DECEMBER 2017 sacramentoparent.com O Celebrating

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Once again, the year is being wrapped up like the gifts under my Christmas tree! This month, I want to thank our advertisers. It was a big year for us, we turned 25! That’s 25 years of bringing parents a free monthly magazine that is dedicated to connecting families. All of which, would not be possible without the support of our advertisers, a group of stellar local businesses who are also dedicated to serving families in Greater Sacramento.

StudioPRDesign.com

JILL LENDAHL, JillLendahl.com event coordinator | MELEYA WALKER

contributing writers: Michelle Kopkash | Pam Molnar | Amber Pryor Christine Quarry | Shannon Smith Diana Watkins contributing photographer: Lifestyle by Tavio | www.LifestyleByTavio.com

advertising executives: RAYCHELL SARCOMO | (530) 889.6175 raychell@sacramentoparent.com LINDSAY TRENZ | (530) 889.6178 lindsay@sacramentoparent.com CHERYL WAPLES | (530) 889.6176 cheryl@sacramentoparent.com

BILLING QUESTIONS

Shelly Bokman | (530) 888.0573 shelly@sacramentoparent.com

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As for Sacramento Parent, we are not only strengthening family bonds with articles, tips and activities—but we are connecting families who may not even know each other and still share a common bond—and that, is quite rewarding. Looking ahead, our biggest free event for new and expecting parents, Babies and Bumps, is coming in March. We’re not only celebrating families, but it’s our 10th anniversary and we will be delivering big time! The annual Source Book is also hitting the stands next month and we have a few more surprises up our sleeves that we are eager to share with you! Looking back, we met some pretty incredible people. One is in this issue, hopeful future cardiologist, Savanna. Some of my favorites: Emma, the young local author, the cover from Mutasia, our Cover Kid Winner, Drew and all of the finalists that were just too cute, the heartfelt stories on sunshine, rainbow and angel babies, and recently Adan and Lawrence’s perspective on adoption. So, thank you, simply put...we thank you for reading Sacramento Parent. We wish you health, happiness and good fortune in 2018!

Shannon and the sac parent team FAMILY PUBLISHING, INC. Sacramento Parent Magazine Subscription Rate: one year, $30 PO Box 598 Auburn, CA 95604 p (530) 888.0573 f (530) 888.1536 sacparenteditor@gmail.com | www.sacramentoparent.com

Sacramento Parent magazine is published monthly by Family Publishing, Inc. It is available free of charge at over 1,000 locations throughout Greater Sacramento. Sacramento Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photos from our readers. Sacramento Parent is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission. Opinions expressed by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily the opinions of this publication.

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DECEMBER 2017

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Coffee Cozies By Lady DIY

Just in time for the holidays, this month’s project makes a great gift. These coffee cozies are so easy and fun to make, you’ll want to make one for yourself as well! The next time you visit your favorite coffee shop, hold on to the cup and the cardboard sleeve. The sleeve will be the template for this project, and the cup will be used as the form.

Supplies Needed: Felt, in at least two colors (rectangles are available at your local craft store) Fabric glue or hot glue Template and form–cardboard sleeve and paper coffee cup, available at your favorite coffee shop Marker Scissors

Directions: Step 1: Carefully separate the ends of the cardboard sleeve. Lay it out flat on the felt. Step 2: Using the marker, trace the outline of the cardboard sleeve onto the felt. Cut out the felt. Step 3: Wrap the felt cozy around the coffee cup. One end of the cozy will be slightly tapered, and one end will be wider. Glue the wider edge on top of the tapered edge.

cardboard

felt

Step 4: Now it’s time to personalize your cozy! Examples of things to add with additional colors of felt: simple shapes, something seasonal, or the first letter of the recipient’s last name. I made a simple mitten template out of cardboard for one cozy, and I used a nickel as the template for the polka dots.

Coffee shop gift cards are a popular gift idea around the holidays. A personalized coffee cozy and an unused cup makes a great gift wrap!

Lady DIY lives in Rocklin and stays home with her three boys. When she’s not too busy with DIY projects around the house, she enjoys gardening, fitness and living the glamorous life of a baseball/soccer/football mom. Celebrating 25 years O sacramentoparent.com

DECEMBER 2017

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Heart of Gold: Young Author and Role Model Strives to Make a Difference By Michelle Kopkash | Photos courtesy of Happy Heart Advices Sometimes you find that one amazing person who chooses, at a young age, to devote themselves to leaving the world a better place than when they arrived. Savanna Karmue, an 11-year-old girl from Sacramento, is one of those people whose compassionate heart knows no limits on goodness. In fact, this loving, determined and God-fearing seventh-grader sees her life’s mission as one of outreach, education and betterment, all with the purpose of saving lives. In her short walk on earth, she has already physically and spiritually impacted the hearts of those around her, with ambitious plans to positively affect thousands of people within the next two decades. Savanna is the founder and president of Happy Heart Advices, a company she founded at six years of age after being inspired by a hospital visit to a Sunday school teacher undergoing heart surgery. The startling fact that 2,200 people die daily in the United States due to cardiovascular disease1 motivated her to teach today’s youth about the importance of lifestyle choices in order to prevent obesity and other health issues that lead to cardiovascular disease. Her company accomplishes this mission through a multifaceted approach that uses educational tips, resources, unique school programs and seasonal health challenges—all created by Savanna to reach children—and local schools. To date, she has authored a book geared toward young readers, “Happy Heart Advices, Vol. 1,” and inspired hundreds of local students within the Elk Grove school district who took part in her Happy Heart Challenge school program. Her book and programs educate young peers on the elaborate scientific workings of the cardiovascular system and teach them about specific habits and nutritional changes that lead to healthier hearts. Happy Heart continued on page 12

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Happy Heart continued from page 11

The more one understands the extent of Savanna’s efforts, the more obvious it becomes that she’s dedicated her life to this mission. For instance, during the five-to ten-day Happy Heart Challenge that Savanna implements at schools, she is invited to lead students and teachers through daily exercise programs that combat obesity, teach about healthy choices and food swaps that lead to happier hearts and teach students about the cardiovascular system using her original curriculum. She also challenges students to join her Seasonal Challenges, where she runs a mile each day during the set time frame. She hopes that her school programs and curriculum will eventually be adopted by all school districts in California. Her passion is driven by a sincere love for people and the inner workings of the heart. “This epidemic of heart disease is a growing problem everywhere and I feel like we’re not using our full potential to stop this problem,” explains Savanna. “Yes, there are some companies that tell people what to eat and what not to eat and how much we should exercise, but we’re not taking the time to effectively enforce this healthy system in our schools and communities. My goal is to reach people much earlier, before they are diagnosed with heart disease. I try my best to save other’s lives before they fall into the death trap of heart disease because it’s what I’m passionate about!” Savanna’s list of accomplishments is astounding. She has attended several engagements around the country as the keynote speaker at large venues including the 9th Biennial Childhood Obesity Conference and received a special award from the American Heart Association for her work and impact. She also threw the first pitch at a San Diego Padre’s baseball game last June and most recently,

the Optimist Club bought 370 books to provide to 170 schools throughout the United States.

determined, joyful young lady is genuinely determined to change the world one heart at a time.

Savanna has the go-getter attitude that makes dreams possible. “A challenge was created for her to overcome. If you put a problem in front of her, she’s going to try to solve it,” says her father, Quanuquanei Karmue. This statement rings so true to her personality that she hopes to make a giant dent in the number of children who suffer from childhood obesity in the United States, which she believes will help to fight their future risk of heart disease. By 2031, the year she aims to graduate from medical school as a cardiologist, she hopes her programs will have helped to cut childhood obesity in half, a mammoth goal considering that one in five children in the United States are considered medically obese.2 This

Visit www.happyheartadvices.com for more information.

1 “Heart disease and stroke statistics 2017 At-aGlance,” American Health Association, accessed November 9, 2017, www.healthmetrics.heart.org. 2 “The State of Childhood Obesity,” Trust for America’s Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, accessed November 9, 2017, www.stateofobesity.org/childhood-obesity-trends.

Michelle Kopkash is a local blogger and author-in-the-making who loves to write about parenting topics, mom life and the goodness of God. She’s also a church chaplain who survives on coffee, her kid’s snuggles and prayer. Visit michellekopkash.com or follow her on instagram and Twitter. 12 DECEMBER 2017 sacramentoparent.com O Celebrating

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DECEMBER 2017 13

next door

Around the World & Back in Rocklin By Amber Pryor | Photos courtesy of the Watts Family It’s been nearly two years since the Watts family of Rocklin has had to bundle up in their winter gear. How is that possible, one may ask, after one of the wettest winters on record in the Sacramento valley? Easy! They sold most of their possessions, including their home, packed up backpacks with warm weather clothing and essentials, homeschooled their youngest, and followed summer around the globe for nearly a year. When I last spoke to Ian and Gina Watts, they were mapping out their journey for an endless summer, which began after over a year of planning and life-altering preparations, in the beginning of June 2016. The plan was to spend thirteen months traveling in Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, with their then eleven-year-old son Kieran, all while following warmer weather and with the mission, “to reboot and plan for what they want their future to look like.” Now, I have the pleasure of sitting down, once again, with this adventurous family of three (technically four, but their eldest is away at college) after their travels, to hear how all the changes, challenges, and preparations, were all worth it and what takeaways they’re eager to share. “The world is nice,” said Gina Watts, with a relaxed demeanor and a heartfelt smile. “People are just generally nice and want to talk, no one was ever rude or mean.” “While house sitting for a family in Northern England,” said Ian Watts. “Their eighty-year-old grandfather kept checking in on the property and animals and took a liking to us. One day he showed up with his old MG convertible and

offered to take our son Kieran for a drive. Funny thing is the car actually broke down in town, which made for a whole other adventure.” Then there was the Felliccisimo family of Sorrento, Italy, who made the biggest impression on all three Watts. “We really connected,” said Kieran Watts, of their Airbnb host family. “I was even asked to mediate a family disagreement between the parents and their thirteen-year-old son,” said Ian. “It was an honor to be so well respected by this really special family.” For Gina, who doesn’t like “good-byes,” the teary farewells between the two families was a testament to the impact they had on each other and just the beginning of what they hope will be life-long friendships. The Watts keep in touch with the Felliccisimos via WhatsApp, and continue to use their trusty translation resource iTranslate and Google Translate. For accommodations, The Watts were extremely happy with Trusted House Sitters, which set them up to stay in four different homes for “free,” in three different countries (there is an annual $99 fee for members). In addition, Airbnb, as well as Hotels.com (especially in Australia) were frequently used by the Watts to book their stays abroad. “We discovered the key to booking…get a place for two to three nights,” said Ian. “Then check out the area to decide where you’d really like to stay long term.” Unfortunately, not all parts of travel can be planned out perfectly in advance as the Watts found out the hard way during

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their trip to Northeastern Australia. They traveled to Darwin City, Australia, because it was the least expensive way to get to Australia from Bali, but unbeknown to them, the ocean beaches were shutdown during that particular time of year, due to deadly jellyfish and crocodiles, and made for some disappointment in the choice of destination. Now Amsterdam on-the-other-hand offered the Watts a whole different kind of surprise. “The Netherlands was our first stop and from the airport you take a train into Amsterdam,” said Gina, with a look of wonder in her eyes. “When you walk through the doors of that train station you know you are no longer in America. I just thought to myself, ‘Wow!” In addition to falling in love with the Netherlands and all their beautiful windmills, Gina holds dear her birthday trip to Munich, Germany for Oktoberfest and all the sights they beheld in Rome. “You learn about Rome from the time you are little,” said Gina. “And then here I am, standing in front of what I have heard about all these year and it just makes you dizzy. I walked on thousand year-old streets and it just blew my mind.” Other aspects of their travel that took them by surprise were how many young people from Europe were traveling the world and how things that are so common for a young American, can be a real treat to some of these travelers. “There were these teenage boys from Germany doing holiday work in Australia, who asked if they could try out our baseball mitts,” said Gina. “They were so excited to be wearing gloves; they were like kids in a candy store.”

next door

The military presence in other countries, also took them by surprise, but not in a way that alarmed them, but rather as a source of peace. Both Ian and Gina shared how family and friends were concerned about them due to terrorist attacks and natural disasters occurring while they traveled, but say they never once felt in danger. The Watts also had financial peace, as access to money and converting it was surprisingly simple. “Before we left the states we set up a free checking account which would not charge us any travel related fees,” said Ian. “And keeping up on the exchange rates was really easy with apps like World Currency exchange rates.” Although handling their money while traveling was easy, the Watts did share budgeting their finances didn’t work out exactly as planned and even with limiting a lot of “extras,” they did have to return home three months early and cutout a few destinations, to be certain they had enough to reestablish themselves when they returned to Rocklin. They have been fortunate enough to stay with dear friends since returning, finding work and getting situated back at school. With Kieran’s return to school, the Watts and his teachers were pleasantly sur-

prised the independent study work Kieran did with Time4Learning “worked out.” “When Kieran rejoined his classmates in March, his teacher confirmed he was on track,” said Gina. And on track is certainly where the whole Watts family seems to be: moving forward with reestablishing transplantable roots, celebrating a renewed sense of wonder and mapping out where they see themselves going when the kids are grown and their eternal summer beckons them again.

make our way to Spain, Portugal, and Scotland…for starters.” Amber Pryor is a Sacramento area mom, freelance writer, former educator, volunteer, and philanthropist with a focus on issues involving children’s welfare both locally and globally. She has a passion for travel and loves to spend quality time with family and friends.

“Once Kieran graduates, we plan to travel one to three months at a time using Trusted House Sitters,” shared Ian and Gina. “We hope to visit the Felliccisimo family, as well as Germany again; then

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Ring in the New Year with Family-Friendly Party Games By Pam Molnar

Are you including the kids in your New Year’s celebration this year? For most of us, that means we bring the kids to the party, but send them off to play with their friends while we mingle with ours. It’s like having two separate parties under the same roof. This year, bring the two parties together with laughter and entertainment for all ages. These eight family-friendly games will help you get it started. Tablet (Telephone, but for today’s world) Write down an object and an action (like a monkey climbing a tree) on an index card. Using a dry erase board, the first person picks a card and draws a picture based on what he reads. He then shows the picture to the person next to him without letting anyone else see the picture. That person will erase the board and write what he thinks was drawn. He will then pass it to the third person who will draw what he reads. This continues around the circle until it gets back to the first person. The Human Knot Everyone stands in a circle and puts both their hands out, grabbing a random hand from someone else. While not letting go of anyone’s hand, try to untangle the group. For less of a challenge, try using just one hand. Doubles Ask every guest to bring two small, wrapped gifts. This can either be white elephant or dollar store items. Pile all the gifts in the center of the table. Everyone sits around the table and rolls a pair of dice, trying to get doubles. If they get doubles, they choose a gift from the center. If not, they pass the dice to the next person. If you are playing with younger children, you might want to limit the amount of gifts each person will get. The Balloon Game Write down funny actions, tasks or riddles on slips of paper. Roll up and insert into balloons. You will need two balloons for each person as you need to tie one to each person’s ankles. On go, everyone tries to stomp and pop a balloon. If your balloon is popped, you have to read the riddle, do the task or perform the funny action. This game is guaranteed to keep everyone hopping! The Silent Snowman This is a game that goes on all night. Make a snowman out of paper or felt. Attach two sided tape or removable adhesive putty on the back of the snowman. One person starts out with the snowman on his back. As the night goes on, someone tries to steal the snowman and put it on their own back. The person left wearing the snowman at midnight gets a prize. Auld Lang Syne Scrabble Write the words to this popular New Year’s Eve song on separate index cards. (You will need two sets). Break your guests into two teams. On go, ask the teams to put the words in the correct order. The first one to get it correct wins. For a real challenge, do both verses. For a variation, use the words to a current top forty song that the kids know. Line up Blind Break your group into teams. Blindfold one of the teams and have them stand in the middle of the room. Now, ask the team to line themselves up in order–alphabetically, by height, by age, etc. The unblindfolded team can tell them if they are correct or not, but cannot say why. When they are in the correct order, the teams switch places. Cherry Pie Place a maraschino cherry in a pie plate. Tell the guests the object is to pick up the cherry without using their hands and eat it. Alas, things are never as easy as they seem. Before the challenge begins, fill the plate with whipped cream. This is a great photo opportunity! Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. Parties at their house include good food, lots of laughs, and of course, games. Check out more of Pam’s party games and ideas in her Etsy shop, Pam’s Party Printables. Celebrating 25 years O sacramentoparent.com

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Making a List? #ShareTheSpirit Day

December 9 at Solano Town Center Sharing is part of the holiday season and this year, Solano Town Center representatives will reward random shoppers with a $50 gift card, plus a $25 gift card to share the spirit with another shopper! www.ShoppingSolanoTownCenter.com

5th Annual Holiday Art & Craft Fair Friday

December 8-9 at CSD Pavilion Crafty Creations and the CSD will be hosting a Holiday Art and Craft Fair for families and friends. If you’re looking for unique gifts then make this fair your holiday shopping headquarters. Handmade holiday decor, wonderful gift items and so much more. www.EldoradoHillsCSD.org

28th Annual Holiday Craft Fair

December 2 at Maidu Regional Park Santa's helpers have been hard at work to create a holiday shopping market, with over 160 exhibitors. You're sure to find that special something; including home décor, art, pet items, knitted and quilted creations, jewelry, unique crafts, specialty items, gourmet foods, and used books! www.Roseville.ca.us

2017 27th Annual Holiday Sale

December 1-3 at Davis Arts Center This sale features over 60 artisan vendors selling fine art goods including ceramics, textiles, soaps, jewelry, clothing, home décor, candies and foods. Children do their own shopping at the Children’s Secret Store, where volunteers help them buy and wrap gifts for family and friends– or they can make their own gifts in the pottery-painting studio. www.DavisArtsCenter.org

A Master Singers Christmas

December 21 at Harris Center for the Arts All the beauty and joy you’ve come to expect will be presented once again, from a meditative candlelight processional to exuberant spirituals, and from multicultural repertoire to timeless carols. www.MasterSingers.org

Breakfast with Santa

December 9 at Fair Oaks Community Clubhouse Join Santa for a continental breakfast, holiday crafts, letters to the North Pole, hot cocoa bar, and pictures with Santa. Please, bring your own camera. Seating is limited and tickets must be purchased in advance. www.FairOaksPark.org

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Round-up the family, make a stop at your favorite spot for a cup-o-joe and a breakfast treat and then venture out to experience these holiday happenings near you!

Cameron Park’s Run with Santa

Festival of Lights

Christmas in the Village

Folsoms 4th Annual 5k/10k Walk Run & Santa Fun Run

December 2 at Cameron Park Community Center Bring the whole family to enjoy this perfect Holiday kick-off. You will finish the race just in time to attend the Cameron Park Fire Department’s Pancake Breakfast. (Breakfast is included with Santa Run registration.) www.CameronPark.org December 2 at Fair Oaks Village Enjoy shopping, festive foods, arts and craft vendors, gingerbread house display and raffle, Christmas Caroling, Cookie Decorating, plus so much more including a visit with Santa and a parade. www.FairOaksChamber.com

Christmas Tree Lighting

December 2 at El Dorado Hills Town Center This festive event kicks off at 4pm with the merchant open houses and the “Stuff Your Stocking” game, where children visit participating businesses to fill their stockings with special gifts. Enjoy a live band starting at 4:30pm and at 6pm watch the winners of the Caroling Contest. Santa will arrive on the traditional EDH fire truck to light the tree with his magic glitter at 6:30pm. www.EDHTowncenter.com

Community Holiday Fair

December 2 at Dream Catcher Realty Bring your kids to meet Santa Claus and take FREE professional photos to use for holiday cards & gifts! Enjoy getting a jump-start on your holiday shopping by stopping by booths from businesses in the area with perfect holiday gift items while your kids enjoy the numerous activities set up for them! www.facebook.com/ events/556666581331354

Cookies with Santa

December 8 at CSD Gym Santa will be making a special appearance as Santa’s helpers serve cookies and hot chocolate. www.ElDoradoHillsCSD.org

Dancing Through December

December 3 at Carmichael Seventh Day Adventist Please join the Sacramento Children’s Chorus for its annual holiday concert. All four choirs will get the whole family in the holiday spirit. www.SacramentoChildrensChorus.org

December 2 in Downtown Auburn The parade begins at 5:30pm and this year's theme is "The Magic of Lights." Just imagine, shop lights glittering, carolers singing, and all the ambience of the season. Children will delight in seeing Santa and Mrs. Claus in the parade. www.AuburnChamber.net

December 16 at Vista del Lago High School Put on your jingle bells and join Folsom for this holiday themed, family oriented event. Both the 5K and 10K routes follow the beautiful, paved Folsom trails. Enjoy Christmas carolers, free hot chocolate, Santa Claus and vendors at the Festival! www.FolsomClassic.com

Holiday Magic

December 9 at Sacramento Zoo It’s time for Holiday Magic—watch as the animals unwrap their holiday goodies! Donate combs and brushes, new gloves, gender neutral adult socks, small toiletries, or toothpaste and toothbrushes to the Holiday Drive for Loaves & Fishes at the zoo when you enter and receive $1 off of admission as a thank you to from the zoo. ww.SacZoo.org

Holiday Sale

December 2nd at Effie Yeaw Nature Center The Nature Center will be taken over by the Discovery Shop! The inventory triples with unique nature gifts, beautiful books for all ages, science kits, one-of-a-kind items from guest vendors and more. 20% discount off Discovery Shop items for ARNHA members! All profits benefit the Nature Center. www.SacNatureCenter.net

Noon Year’s Eve

December 31 at Solano Town Center Celebrate the “Noon Year” and ring in 2018 with games, crafts and music before watching the balloon drop at noon! Solano Town Center’s two levels feature more than 130 stores, restaurants and Edwards Theater 16 & IMAX. There is plenty to celebrate! www.ShoppingSolanoTownCenter.com

North Pole Experience

December 2 at Streets of London Pub West Sacramento Join Meyer Law Offices & Mommies Hiring Mommies for a free family fun community event! Take your Photo with Santa, Shop the Extensive Holiday Fair, Enjoy Festive Kids Activities and Win Great Prizes! www.MommiesHiringMommies. com/northpoleexperience

Ring We Now of Christmas

December 17 at Northminster Presbyterian Church Help others while enjoying an afternoon of holiday music from around the world with Bel Tempo, a community handbell choir.This festive afternoon of music is free. A freewill offering will be accepted to benefit Family Promise of Sacramento. www.NorthminsterOnline.org

Santa Parade

December 8-10, at Cameron Park Keep your eyes open and your Christmas list handy. Santa will be driving through Cameron Park, accompanied by the Cameron Park fire Department. www.CameronPark.org

Steampunk-Victorian Holiday Faire

December 2-3 at High Hand Art Gallery A free event, held in conjunction with High Hand Nursery’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Saturday evening. There will be fun for all ages, with live holiday music, refreshments, photos with Steampunk Santa, artworks and vendors. Dive into a unique seasonal spirit, created by artists and participants dressed in traditional Victorian attire or edgier Steampunk costuming. www.HighHandArtGallery.com

Sugar Plum Fairy Tea

December 16 at Community Center Theatre Sacramento Ballet and the Sugar Plum Fairy cordially invite children of all ages to a whimsical tea party, hosted by the Sugar Plum Fairy. Mingle with beloved characters of The Nutcracker while enjoying a high tea sponsored by Ettore’s Bakery. www.SacBallet.org

Christmas songs. There will be all styles of dance including, tap, jazz, ballet, partnering, contemporary, and pointe. We will have performers from 3 years old to adults. There will even be some dances performed with live singing. The show is free so bring your family and friends! www.RiverCityChristian.org

Winter Faire 2017

December 9 at Camellia Waldorf School Celebrate the magic of the season! Enjoy puppet shows, candle dipping, gingerbread house making, a children's store stocked with treasures for young shoppers, artisan vendors, delicious food, hot drinks and sweet treats, plus live entertainment with the Camellia's Got Talent Showcase! Free admission, with a nominal fee for some activities. www.CamelliaWaldorf.org

These Are A Few Of Our Favorite Christmas Songs December 9 at River City Christian Worship Center A fun, family friendly, entertaining dance show full of our favorite

Saturdays & Sundays December 9, 10, 16 & 17

As a FREE service to our customers, we will shake out loose needles, bale the tree, and even tie it to your vehicle for an easy trip home!

Special Park & Event Hours: 1-7 PM Weather Permitting sponorsed in part by

Celebrate the holiday season in Whoville!

Grinch-themed hands-on activities Visit with Santa in his workshop from 3-6 PM Snowfall nightly at 7 PM • Step inside a giant snow globe!

Tickets & Information fairytaletown.org • (916) 808-7462

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friday Sometimes plans change, don’t forget to check the event’s website before you go!

YOU ARE IN FOR A TREAT WITH THIS JOLLY ROUND-UP OF CRAFTS, SHOWS, MAGIC, STORIES AND A PARTRIDGE IN A PEAR TREE!

Holiday at Hogwarts

Peter and the Wolf with The Fratello Marionettes

Critter Corner

10:30am at Rio Linda Library

Have you ever wondered where the animals in the Nature Center come from? Meet some of their critters and learn why these animals are unable to return to the wild. www.SacNatureCenter.net

4pm at Arden-Dimick Library

It’s the night before Yule Ball, celebrate with a showing of “A Very Potter Musical”, treats from the Hogwarts Express, and of course, Harry Potter trivia. Open to youth in 6-12 grade. www.SacLibrary.org Stories, Songs & Wiggles 10am at Good Shepherd Church

All Kids Baby to Pre-K enjoy stories, songs and a whole lot of free and fun Friday mornings. There will be dancing, singing, doing animal sounds, sharing, and reading some awesome stories. www.GsChurch.us

8 3pm at Franklin Library

9 Holiday Party & Winter Magic Show 10:30am at McKinley Library

Start with cookies and drinks for all and then enjoy a winter magic show with Mike della Penna! At the end, stay for a visit with a special guest– Santa! www.SacLibrary.org 10am at World of Wonders Science Museum

Kids ages 8 to 12 are invited to play board games, create arts and crafts, study, make new friends, and just have fun! www.SacLibrary.org

Head over to Deconstruction Junction, walk down Artwork Ally, venture through the Kids Construction Zone and more! www.WowScienceMuseum.org

Winter Holiday Crafts

3:30pm at McKinley Library

A free, school-age program in which you will be using both art and science to get ready for the winter holidays! www.SacLibrary.org

15 Owen Baker-Flynn’s Inspired Silliness 4pm at Rancho Cordova Library

Fun stuff includes juggling, magic, feats of daring do, jokes and accordion playing. www.SacLibrary.org Quarterly Teen Art Show 4pm at Arcade Library

Tinkering at the WOW, December 9th

All ages are invited to follow Peter on his journey through the woods in this fantastic performance. www.SacLibrary.org

Tinkering at the Wow

Kids Afterschool Club

All Aboard for Story Time!, December 4th

sunday

saturday

Join the library for appetizers, drinks, and an evening of art made by area teens! All ages welcome. www.SacLibrary.org

22 Family Karaoke 3pm at Sylvan Oaks Library

Feel like singing? Drop in for a lively karaoke session featuring popular hits, Disney and more for the whole family! www.SacLibrary.org

1pm at Arcade Library

Young children are invited to make simple gifts of thanks using poetry and art. Smocks and wrapping paper provided. www.SacLibrary.org

23 Winter Wonders 10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Winter is here! Take a stroll with a Naturalist in our own winter wonderland and discover the magic of the season. www.SacNatureCenter.net

25 years

10 Gifts from Mother Earth 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Learn the skill of making abalone necklaces to create a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry from Mother Earth. Keep your gift for yourself or share it with someone special. www.SacNatureCenter.net

17 Tissssssss the Season 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Have you been missing the cold-blooded critters that have been hiding out this winter? See and learn all about the reptiles that are awake and warm. www.SacNatureCenter.net

24 Free Admission Day 10am at Fairytale Town

On Christmas Eve, Fairytale Town gives the gift of free admission to visiting guests. www.FairytaleTown.org Pajama Party 10am at Sac Zoo

Wear your PJs and celebrate Christmas Eve at the zoo! Invite your friends and neighbors to this free admission day. www.SacZoo.org

Who Year New Year celebration!

New Years Eve Eve

Join in every hour for bubble stomps to ring in the New Year around the world. They’ll also have a noise-maker making in the Art Studio and more! All daytime “Who Year” activities are included with Museum admission. www.SacKids.org

4pm at Simmons Community Center (Old Cal Skate)

Kiddy Club Preschool and Daycare presents this Mega Family Skate Night! Enjoy food, entertainment, free prizes and more! www.MegaFamilySkateNight.com Noon Year’s Eve 3pm at Arcade Library

Can’t stay up till midnight? Celebrate New Year’s Eve early with the library! www.SacLibrary.org

Winter Wonders, December 23rd

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Gifts of Poetry by Young Children

1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

12pm at Sacramento Kids Museum

monday

thursday

wednesday

tuesday

All Aboard for Story Time!

Pajama Storytime

Wells Fargo Wednesday

Afternoon Art for Kids

11:00am at California Railroad Museum

7pm at Folsom Public Library

9am at Sacramento Zoo

A fun program designed for imaginative young children ages two to five. Whether it’s toy trains or big locomotives, there is something to discover in the Museum that will thrill children of all ages! www.CSRMF.org

Share stories, songs, and rhymes together and bring your favorite blanket, pillow, or stuffed animal and enjoy the best of children’s literature shared in a fun and relaxed setting. Intended audience is ages 2 to 6, but all ages are welcome. www.Folsom.ca.us

Up to four children ages 2 to 11 will receive free admission to the Sacramento Zoo with a paid adult. Thanks to Wells Fargo! www.SacZoo.org

2pm at North Sacramento-Hagginwood Library

A wacky all-ages puppet show that takes Pepe the Dog and Freezey the Snow Girl on an adventure to the North Pole. Adventures ensue as they meet silly penguins, the Abominable Snowman, the Snowball King and more! www.SacLibrary.org

Storytime 10:30am at Maidu Library

Parent participation storytime with simple stories and songs. www.Roseville.ca.us

11 Open Bounce 3:30pm at Bounce U

This family fun time is for ages 2 and up. Reservations recommended! www.BounceU.com/roseville-ca

18 Holiday Drop Off Night 3pm at Sacramento Kids Museum

Drop off your children at SCM in their pajamas for a night of Museum play, viewing of the children’s classic “The Polar Express,” and snacks, crafts, and activities. Dinner will be served. Children must be potty-trained to attend. www.SacKids.org Mother Goose on the Loose 6pm at Downtown Library Roseville

Children 5 and under have a magical time learning about the 3 R’s in literacy: Rhyming, Rhythm and Repetition, through interactive story verse, songs and fun! wwwRoseville.ca.us Youth Force at Jazzercise 8am at Jazzercise Studio

FREE fitness fun for youth ages 16 to 21! Pick any class on their schedule. Those under 18 must have a signed release by the parent. There are classes every day in the mornings and evenings. www.Jazzercise.com

25 All Aboard for Story Time! 11:00am at California Railroad Museum

A fun program designed for imaginative young children ages 2 to 5. Whether it’s toy trains or big locomotives, there is something to d iscover in the Museum that will thrill children of all ages! www.CSRMF.org

Bubbles! Bubbles! Bubbles! 4pm at Orangevale Library

Bubbles and more bubbles! Dancing bubbles, bubble haircuts, bubble brains, and people in bubbles! It’s interactive and fun for the whole family. www.SacLibrary.org

Luce Puppets: Wacky Winter Wonderland 3:30pm at Elk Grove Library

3:30pm at Carmichael Library

Teens, design your own button or create a collage button. The library has a nifty button making machine and catchy images. www.SacLibrary.org

Join us for a fun afternoon of crafting, coloring and playing board games for all ages. www.SacLibrary.org

Frosty’s Magic Hat 3:30pm at Carmichael Library

Learn how the magic of imagination brought Frosty to life. This puppet show is filled with frozen fun and amazing magic for school age children. www.SacLibrary.org

19 Toddler Time 10am at Folsom Public Library

A storytime program that includes short stories, movement songs and fingerplays for toddlers. www.Folsom.ca.us Pajama Storytime 7pm at Folsom Public Library

Share stories, songs, and rhymes together in the Picture Book Room. Bring your favorite blanket, pillow, or stuffed animal and enjoy the best of children’s literature shared in a fun and relaxed setting. Intended audience is ages 2 to 6, but all ages are welcome. www.Folsom.ca.us

26 For the Birds! 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Construct a natural bird feeder from pine cones and learn about what birds need to survive the winter. A fun craft for kids of all ages! Supplies are limited. Peanut butter will be used. www.SacNatureCenter.net

Gingerbread House Decorating 2:30pm at Orangevale Library

Make Gingerbread Houses for the winter season! You can display your gingerbread house in the children’s section or take it home to enjoy. www.SacLibrary.org

14 Afternoon Art for Kids

Crafting, Coloring and Board Games

Make Buttons!

A fun hands-on drop-in program. Kids will experiment with different materials to create their very own masterpiece. For kids 3 and up. Kids under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. www.SacLibrary.org

3:30pm at Elk Grove Library

2pm at North Sacramento-Hagginwood Library

Kids will experiment with different materials to create their very own masterpiece. For kids 3 and up. Kids under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. www.SacLibrary.org

Frosty’s Magic Hat

4pm at Sylvan Oaks Library

Afternoon Art for Kids

Frosty is the world’s coolest winter hero! Learn how the magic of imagination first brought Frosty to life in this show filled with frozen fun and cool magic, puppets, and ventriloquism. www.SacLibrary.org Art Lab: Snow Art 4pm at Arden-Dimick Library

We don’t get much snow in Sacramento, but we can make snow art! The library will supply the materials. You supply the creativity. www.SacLibrary.org Shortest Day of the Year LED Light Up 1pm at Franklin Library

Celebrate the shortest day of the year, learn about traditions around the world that celebrate during the winter months, and create your very own LED powered candle using paper circuitry! www.SacLibrary.org

27 All Day Games! (12/27-12/30)

2pm at North Sacramento-Hagginwood Library

Kids will experiment with different materials to create their very own masterpiece. For kids 3 and up. Kids under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. www.SacLibrary.org

28 All Day Winter Movie Sing-along 11am at Franklin Library

Get cozy in the “theater” and spend the day Singing along to your favorite movies: “Frozen”,“Moana,” and “Sing!” Popcorn will be provided. www.SacZoo.org Afternoon Art for Kids 2pm at North Sacramento-Hagginwood Library

A fun hands-on drop-in program. Kids will experiment with different materials to create their very own masterpiece. For kids 3 and up, kids under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. www.SacLibrary.org

All day at Arden-Dimick Library

Play dominoes, have a bowling match with your family, or start up a board game with a friend. Happy winter break! www.SacLibrary.org

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calendar/on repeat

On repeat this winter 2017 Polar Express Train Ride

Macy’s Theatre of Lights

Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shop

Now-December 17 at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

Now-December 24 in Old Town Sacramento

December 3-24 at Rocklin Bass Pro Shop

Relive the magical journey of “The Polar Express” on an hour-long train ride to the North Pole. Enjoy hot-hot-hot chocolate and yummy cookies as you ride along with many of the story’s characters. Once you reach the North Pole, Santa himself will come on board to give each passenger a silver sleighbell, the “first gift of Christmas”. www.Railtown1897.us

Watch the live-action retelling of Moore’s 1823 poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” more popularly known as “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.” This free presentation promises to be bigger and better than ever. Visitors in Old Sacramento can view the production from the center of K Street as the story is performed from the balconies of the buildings around them. www.OldSacramento.com

Head over to Bass Pro Shop for free games, activities, arts & crafts! Enjoy a laser or foam toy arcade, remote control trucks and more! Plus, free photos with Santa if you have a “Bass Pass.” www.BassPro.com

Cheerful Saturdays December 2-16 at Solano Town Center

Enjoy your favorite holiday tunes sung by Dicken’s Carolers from 1 to 4pm and free face painting in the Express Court from noon-2pm. www.ShoppingSolanoTownCenter.com

December on the Farm Through December at Flower Farm Inn

The Flower Farm is filled with magic in December, with warm drinks, delicious winter fare, holiday plants, and shelves filled with a lovely selection of holiday gifts. Bring your children to the cafe to visit with Santa the first three weekends in December. Photos with Santa are free with a donation of canned food for Placer County’s needy. www.FlowerFarmInn.com

Global Winter Wonderland Now-January 7th at Cal Expo

Global Winter Wonderland is a spectacular holiday festival and multi-cultural celebration featuring awe-inspiring illuminated landscapes celebrating Holidays around the world! Enjoy entertainment by Global Winter Wonderland's own Circus of Light, holiday ice skating, a full carnival with family and thrill rides, delicious international cuisine, photos with Santa, holiday shopping, fun crafts and activities for all ages! www.GlobalWonderland.com

Historic Folsom Holiday Home Tour December 9-10 in Historic Old Folsom

Celebrating its 6th anniversary, the 2017 Historic Folsom Holiday Home Tour features ten charming historic sites beautifully adorned for the holidays including one home featured as the “Decorators Showcase.” You’ll also find a wonderful art and hand-crafted holiday gift boutique at the Murer House, docents in period clothing and an opportunity to enjoy the season as you step back in time. www.FolsomHistoricalSociety.org

Holiday Market Now-December 24 at Pence Gallery

Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere while shopping this Holiday Market, featuring creative items from over forty participating artists. From handmade glass and jewelry, to textiles, clothing, and more, the Pence is full of special gifts at great prices. Bring the little ones to create a holiday card, or fill a festive stocking with small gifts for a special someone. www.PenceGallery.org

Magical Christmas Train Now-December 23 at Sacramento River Train

Make timeless memories with Santa and his elves aboard the Magical Christmas Train. Tickets include a 90-minute train and an interactive show based on the book "Morgan and the Magical Christmas Train" by local author, Shell Hart. Along the way you'll enjoy cookies, hot chocolate in a souvenir mug, and a personal visit with Santa Claus himself. www.SacramentoRiverTrain.com

Mattress Firm’s Toy Drive for Foster Kids Now-December 17th at any Sleep Train Store

To help ensure that every foster child wakes up with a gift to open on Christmas morning, Sleep Train is hosting its annual Toy Drive for Foster Kids. Donations of new, unwrapped gifts for all ages can be dropped off at any Sleep Train store. The most requested items include sporting equipment, arts & crafts supplies, baby dolls, superhero figurines, electronics and gift cards. www.MattressFirmFosterKids.org

Paws with Claus Pet Photos December 4-11 at Solano Town Center

Well-mannered cats, dogs and other friendly pets are invited to spend time at Express Court with Santa, and have photos taken to mark the occasion. Cats must be in a carrier at all times and dogs must be on a leash. Photos will be available for purchase. www.ShoppingSolanoTownCenter.com

Pictures with Santa Now-December 24 at El Dorado Hills Town Center

Santa Claus will be spreading cheer while spending time in El Dorado Hills Town Center. Families are invited to visit with Santa to share wish lists and to take purchased photos. Meet Santa in the California Welcome Center on Post Street next to Cold Stone Creamery. www.EdhTown Center.com

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Sounds of the Season December 6, 13 and 20 at Solano Town Center

The sounds of the season are here. Enjoy festive performances from choirs and bands from local schools in Center Court. www.ShoppingSolanoTownCenter.com

Wild Nights and Holiday Lights 2017 December 1-30 at Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary

This festive event features a unique opportunity to see Zoo animals after dark. Enjoy an enchanted forest of 50 lit trees with thousands of lights all over the Zoo Sanctuary. Visit with Santa Claus and the Zoo’s own “Santa Paws”, ride on the miniatures “Starlight Express” train, listen to carolers and enjoy seasonal refreshments. www.FolsomZooFriends.org

Winter Wonderland Weekends December 9-17 at Fairytale Town

Celebrate the holiday season in Whoville with festive décor, a dazzling display of lights, and Grinch-themed hands-on activities. Visit with Santa in his workshop from 3-6pm, don't miss a flurry of snow falling nightly at 7pm, and step inside a giant snow globe! www.FairytaleTown.org

Wishes and Photos with Santa Now-December 24 at Solano Town Center

Capture festive memories with photos of youngsters on Santa’s lap in the Express Court. As a special gift, kids who visit Santa will receive a complimentary Santa plate for the family. Those who purchase a photo package will receive a $20 promo card from Shutterfly and one free phone call from Santa. www.ShoppingSolanoTownCenter.com

let’s go

Take the Family to a Holiday Ice Rink

Granite Bay Montessori

Providing a personalized academic journey for ages 2 years to 8th grade.

By Christine Quarry

The holiday season is upon us! Lights are going up, stores are beaming with holiday cheer and Greater Sacramento is transforming into a winter wonderland. It’s time to bring out the skates, practice your figure 8’s and follow it up with laughter and bonding over warm hot cocoa!

Downtown Sacramento Holiday Ice Rink November 3, 2017–January 15, 2018 The Downtown Sacramento Holiday Ice Rink has been a seasonal landmark on The Kay for over 20 years, providing a playful escape into a winter wonderland for kids and adults alike. Situated in the heart of Downtown, at the corner of 7th & K streets in St. Rose of Lima Park, the Downtown Sacramento Holiday Ice Rink is a treasured destination for outdoor skating and a launching pad for exploring the ever-booming central city. www.DownTownSac.org/services/events/downtown-sacramento-holiday-ice-rink/

Affordable Tuition-Based Private Montessori School Open 7:00 am - 6:30 pm Low Student Teacher Ratio (12:1)

CALL NOW FOR A TOUR! 9330 Sierra College Blvd., Roseville, CA 95661 (916) 791-7849

Individualized Hands-On Learning Comprehensive core subject matter Project based life and social sciences’ curricula Practical life skills at all ages Art, Music, P.E., & Enrichment Classes

WWW.GBMONTESSORI.COM

Folsom Historic Magical Ice Rink November 3, 2017–Jananuary 16, 2018 Gather your kids, neighbors and friends and visit the Folsom Ice Rink. This beautiful circular ice rink was designed specifically for the plaza in Historic Folsom. This seasonal rink is a treat for the entire community to enjoy! www.FolsomIceRink.com

ROCKLIN INDEPENDENT CHARTER ACADEMY

Holiday Ice Rink at Global Winter Wonderland Opens November 11th Global Winter Wonderland is a spectacular holiday festival and multicultural celebration! Head on over to do some ice skating plus so much more! www.GlobalWonderland.com/public/sacramento/ things-to-do/index.cfm

Skatetown Ice Arena Celebrates 20-Year Anniversary See Facebook page for special events and hours The Sacramento Valley’s premier indoor ice arena will celebrate its 20-Year Anniversary this Holiday Season. Enjoy special holiday public skating sessions, rain or shine! Themed skate parties: Winter Wonderland (December 1) and Star Wars (February 16) and the Theater on Ice Spectacular Show, (December 17). www.Facebook.com/Skatetown.biz

Promoting a progressive, developmentally-based, student-centered community of learners.

(916) 632.3195

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3250 Victory Drive Rocklin, CA 96765

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www.RICA.RocklinUSD.org Celebrating 25 years O sacramentoparent.com

DECEMBER 2017 23

COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE:

Untying the Knot Together By Jessica Laskey

Divorce is hard. Two people in conflict dealing with fear, hurt, anger—it’s an experience you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy—but what about on your children? “Divorce is a very difficult happening in a child’s world—it’s a huge transition,” explains Ann Cinnamon, a licensed marriage and family therapist who practices in Fair Oaks and also acts as a divorce coach and child specialist in a process called collaborative divorce. “Collaborative divorce is a process where the divorcing couple commits to making joint decisions about their children with the help of a team. They’re not handing their parental role over to a mediator or a judge to make decisions, they’re doing it themselves with support.” Collaborative practice was dreamed up by an attorney in Minneapolis in 1990 who had had enough of the contentious legal battles and high emotional toll he was seeing with his divorce clients. “Collaborative” takes the adversarial element away and instead equips the divorcing couple with a team of experts (attorneys, financial analysts, mental health professionals and child specialists) to help lead them through the process outside the court system. Having members of the team specifically trained to guide and support divorcing parents means that their children’s needs don’t get lost in the shuffle. “I was intrigued by the team approach when I first started learning about collaborative divorce,” says licensed clinical social worker Deni Deutsch Marshall, who trained with the Sacramento Collaborative Practice Group (SCPG), an organization co-founded by family law attorney Hal Bartholomew in 2007. “Using mental health professionals as coaches and child specialists help keep emotions under control and gives children a voice in the process.” Marshall explains that a child specialist (often a therapist or social worker) will first meet with the parents to hear their concerns for their kids, as well as meet with each parent individually to hear their concerns about the other parent. The child specialist will then meet with the children to find out what they want from their parents, what’s worrying them and what they need. Lastly, the specialist convenes with the rest of the collaborative team and the parents to share the information and help 24 DECEMBER 2017 sacramentoparent.com O Celebrating

25 years

craft a parenting plan that takes everyone’s concerns (and the children’s developmental stages) into consideration. “The biggest benefit to collaborative divorce is that everyone comes out with fewer scars and more tools to move forward,” family law attorney and SCPG member Kristine Cummings explains. “The needs of the kids are met in a more holistic way in the collaborative process than in any other process. As a collaborative attorney, I get to be a problem solver, helping parents learn new ways of co-parenting, listening to each other and integrating their own concerns with another person’s. I often hear from couples that if they had learned these tools during their marriage, they likely wouldn’t be here now.” In creating SCPG, Bartholomew and his fellow professionals have not only given couples a much more peaceful alternative to divorce than litigation or even mediation, but they’ve also provided a platform for fellow attorneys, therapists, social workers and financial advisors to come together to use their skills to ease the pain of divorce one couple at a time. For those who are interested in the process but still have questions, the SCPG offers informational seminars called Divorce Options Workshop, held the second Saturday of every month in several counties. The workshop allows a divorcing couple to learn about the many facets of collaborative divorce—and how to protect their children—before starting the process of “untying the knot.” “Collaborative lays a different foundation from the very beginning,” Cummings says. “Instead of pitting the couple against each other, you put forth the good and get the whole family through the process with honesty. It’s incredibly freeing, which is why I try to get every case I can converted to collaborative. The hope is that this will be a family that walks away forever changed.” For more information on collaborative divorce and the Sacramento Collaborative Practice Group, visit divorceoption.com or call 916-863-9777.

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calendar/shows

A Holiday Tradition

DEC 9-17 THE NUTCRACKER presented by Placer Theatre Ballet

Waltzing flowers, mischievous mice, dancing toys and sparkling snowflakes dance to Tchaikovsky’s enchanting and renowned score. This holiday classic tells the story of Clara and her magical Nutcracker Prince as they embark on a thrilling adventure. www.PlacerTheatreBallet.org

DEC 9-23 THE NUTCRACKER presented by Ron Cunningham’s Sacramento Ballet

Clara’s fearless battle with the Mouse King, the soaring Magic Balloon, the sparkling Snowflake Forest, the delicious Kingdom of the Sweets, and the radiant elegance of the Sugar Plum Fairy have been creating cherished family memories for three decades. www.SacBallet.org

DEC 9-16 THE NUTCRACKER presented by Capitol Ballet Company

A tasteful journey of sweets and treats! Capitol Ballet Company brings the beauty and artistry of ballet to a diverse audience of art lovers. www.CapitolBallet.com

A Christmas Carol

Through December 24 at Sacramento Theatre Company This adaptation of the classic Dickens novel is by local artists Richard Hellesen and David de Berry and stars Matt K. Miller reprising his role as Ebenezer Scrooge. The Christmas tale traverses Scrooge’s greed-filled past, his regrettable present void of forgiveness, and his fated future if he doesn’t change his avaricious ways. www.SacTheatre.org December 1-9 at The Benvenuti Performing Arts Center Ben Scrooge is 18 years-old and he is the youngest and richest teen in the world. Ben and his late, best friend, Jake Marley invented a wildly popular and excessively violent video game app called “Stoopid People.” Ben, who has isolated himself from anyone who cares about him, keeps his wealth to himself and refuses to help those in need. Ben is visited by Jake’s ghost and three (very original) spirits who help him discover the joys of kindness and love for his fellow human beings. www.BenArts.org

THE NUTCRACKER presented by Pamela Hayes Classical Ballet

DEC 16-17 CHRISTMAS ANGELS & NUTCRACKER SUITE presented by Crockett-Deane Ballet & Deane Dance Center

A one-act, family-friendly, narrated version of the familiar holiday story set to the beautiful music of Tchaikovsky. “Christmas Angels” tells the familiar story of Christmas set to traditional holiday carols. www.DeaneDanceCenter.com

December 2-16 at Chautauqua Playhouse From the pages of the classic book by Louisa May Alcott comes a Christmas play with all the characters you love—Jo, Meg, Beth, Amy. Also on hand are Laurie, Marmee and Aunt March, all in a heartwarming tale that celebrates love and the Holiday Season. www.CPlayhouse.org

A Christmas Carol Is Coming!

DEC 14-17 A holiday tradition you won’t want to miss! Infusing fantasy with wonderful choreography and stunning costumes, this is a feast for the eyes. www.DanceBallet.com

Christmas with Little Women

An Irish Christmas

December 23 at Harris Center for the Arts This celebration of Christmas in Ireland, with plenty of Irish soul, offers superb music-making, dance and singing of Christmas carols, all led by an award-winning cast of Irish dancers, in a night that sparkles with life. www.HarrisCenter.net

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Holiday Celebration with High Voltage

December 19 at Harris Center for the Arts This show has become a fan favorite for the holiday season. It features both new and classic holiday songs, all done with High Voltage’s unique flair. Give yourself and your entire family a special present and come see this show. www.HarrisCenter.net

The Mark Wood Experience Holiday Extravaganza December 15 at Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts Mark Wood, original member and string master with the internationally acclaimed Trans-Siberian Orchestra, performs alongside the Davis Senior High School Symphony Orchestra and Davis High Honor Choir (Angelo Moreno, Director) to create holiday magic! The program will include some of the biggest hits from Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Led Zeppelin, Michael Jackson, as well as Mark’s original material. www.MondaviArts.org

The Regifters

December 8-January 14 at Chautauqua Playhouse A couple “regifts” a not-so-great Christmas present, then finds out it’s worth a fortune and will stop at nothing to get it back. But they’re not the only ones who rewrapped it and In the mad pursuit to reclaim the gift, everyone who gave it away learns about friendship, real wealth, and the value of a gift truly given. www.CPlayHouse.org

calendar/exhibits

SACRAMENTO THEATRE COMPANY

WINTER CAMP

December 26th-29th 9am-5pm

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always a good idea to check the website before you head out!

(before care and after care provided)

Dinosaur Time Trek: Cal Expo

Scribble Exhibit

December 9-10 at Cal Expo

Through December 14 at Sac State - University Union Gallery

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family expedition time! Be transported through a special Time Lab where you can observe enormous prehistoric dinosaurs, track modern day sharks in real-time, or glimpse mythological, magical dragons. This experience is all about hands-on family fun! www.DinosaurTimeTrek.com Forces: Earth & Space Opening December 16 at Powerhouse Science Center

Forces of the universe make stars shine, planets to orbit, and galaxies hold together complex extraterrestrial systems. When matter and energy work in synchronicity, incredible things happen in the vastness of space. www.PowerHouseSC.org

Enjoy a new body of work by Douglass Keliheleua Kleinsmith. Douglass describes Scribble as a consciously unconscious mark. He goes through a series of intentions, accidents, and decisions that can be furthermore described as an experience of controlled chaos. www.Facebook.com/ events/2018919564989620 Teaching Art Inside Now through January 18 at Gallery at 48 Natoma

Featuring paintings and prints by former correctional art instructor James Carlson and artwork by incarcerated artists from the Arts-In-Corrections Program at the California State Prison, Sacramento (New Folsom Prison), including a selection of Johnny Cash memorabilia from the John R. Cash Revocable Trust in the exhibit. www.Folsom.ca.us

For more information, contact: education@sactheatre.org 916-446-7501 ext. 116

www.SacTheatre.org

Celebrating 25 years O sacramentoparent.com

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