San Joaquin Parent & Kids - NOV/DEC 2013

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NOV/DEC 2013 SANJOAQUINPARENT.COM

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TRACY

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SAN JOAQUIN PARENT & KIDS NOV/DEC l 2013

209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinPARENT.com

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2013

CONTENTS 8 Holiday Happenings

What's Happening around San Joaquin County to get you in the holiday spirit

By Lindsey Rodrian

10 Holiday Crafts to

do at Home Show your kids that Christmas doesnt begin and end at the mall! By Katy Berry

12 Stress-Free Holidays

Start a new tradition of a stress-free Christmas By Nissa Hallquist

14 Real Life Superheroes Parents by Choice helping the youth of San Joaquin By Allen Russell

16 Gifts From The Heart Don't break the bank... Give someone a present from the heart rather than the bank. By Heather Reagan

20 Blendingthe Holidays Simple things can make the difference between cherished memories or sorted recollections. By Heather Reagan

28 Calendar

This issues round up of family fun activities. By Michele Bird

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SAN JOAQUIN PARENT & KIDS NOV/DEC l 2013

Celebrating 55 years of Excellence “Learning with God’s Guidance”

Kindergarten(Full Day) - 8th Grade Fully Accredited by WCEA & WASC

Salida Surgery Center St. Bernard’s School offers a complete curriculum with enrichment opportunites in:

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San Joaquin County Office of Education prepares all kids for college and careers!

San Joaquin County Office of Education provides educational leadership, resources, and services to support San Joaquin County schools. With its highly regarded programs, innovative staff, and community partnerships, SJCOE ensures that every student in San Joaquin has the opportunity of a quality education.

November 13: Premiere of the documentary, “Left Behind,” a film that chronicles the lives of San Joaquin County homeless youth shown in support of Homeless Awareness Month.

November 14: Dinner with a Scientist offers students in grades 7-12 an opportunity to interact with scientists from a variety of fields.

All-Yearlong: Career Academy of Cosmetology offers convenient day and night classes allowing students to attend full- or part-time to fit in your schedule.

San Joaquin County Office of Education - where Kids Come First!

2901 Arch-Airport Road, Stockton | (209) 468-4800 | www.sjcoe.org

209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinPARENT.com

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CONTACT US

San Joaquin Parent & Kids Magazine published bi-monthly by San Joaquin Magazine 318 W. Pine Street, Lodi, CA 95240 Phone: (209) 833-9989 www.sanjoaquinparent.com

ADVERTISING OFFICE: 209.833.9989

CANNED FOOD DRIVE

10% OFF OF YOUR PURCHASE

BY BRINGING IN 10 CANS. NOVEMBER 8-10. (excludes sale items)

354 Lincoln Center • Stockton www.shopsassypants.com

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THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

BEST CHILDREN’S CLOTHING

PUBLISHER | EDITOR Tony Zoccoli MANAGING EDITOR Lindsey Rodrian DIRECTOR OF SALES Lauren Sturman CREATIVE DIRECTOR David Martinez

IN SAN JOAQUIN

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Michelle Cox, Valerie Zoccoli ACCOUNTING Melissa Peralta PHOTOGRAPHY INTERN Dani Adams WEB DESIGNER Aaron Post DISTRIBUTION SERVICES Rebecca Ristrim

Preschool Full Time DayCare Infant Care, Preschool, Pre-K & After School Full Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks Served Daily Conveniently located near March Lane & Pacific Ave. in Stockton

REGULAR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Michele Bird, Stephanie McIntosh, Heather Reagan, Jenn Thornton, Don and Ann Jackson Nissa Hallquist, Katy Berry, Jessica Clare

EDITORIAL INQUIRIES editorial@sanjoaquinmagazine.com

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from this publisher. Photographs, graphics, and artwork are the property of Inside Magazines Publishing Company. © 2013 Inside Magazines

PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.

209.956.5437 4453 Precissi Lane, Stockton

Visit us @ www.WriteStartLearningCenter.net

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SAN JOAQUIN PARENT & KIDS NOV/DEC l 2013

FUNNY, IT DOESN’T LOOK LIKE A DOCTOR’S OFFICE.

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Announcing A new wAy to connect witH your doctor. Many of your records such

as recent immunizations, future appointments, and many lab results can all be accessed online. And, these days, that’s just about anywhere. You can even e-mail your child’s doctor. Just another way that we at Kaiser Permanente help you to live well and thrive.

To learn more, go to kp.org/centralvalley.

209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinPARENT.com

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IN S N IO T A C O L 3 1 W NO !

Y T N U O C IN U Q A O J SAN CHECK OUT OUR NEWEST LOCATIONS STOCKTON NOW OPEN! IN-SHAPE: MARCH LANE // Indoor Aquatics Center // Racquetball Courts // Cycling Studio // Group Exercise Studio // Cardio Theater with 9 Screen LCD Flat Screen Wall // Tons of Free Weights // Huge Kids Club & More!

LODI OPENING IN DECEMBER! IN-SHAPE: LODI // Indoor Aquatics Center // Free Group Exercise Classes // Kids Club with Huge Play Maze // Cardio Theater with 9 Screen LCD Flat Screen Wall // Expansive Free Weight Area // Racquetball Courts & More!

Great new Kids Club at In-Shape: March Ln (Stockton). Included with family memberships

Come See What Everyone is Talking About!

6 Stockton LocationS In-Shape Sport: West Lane 1074 E. Bianchi Rd. • 472-2100

In-Shape: March Lane 4555 N. Pershing Ave. • 762-4500

3 tracy LocationS

2 Manteca Locations In-Shape Sport: Manteca 1805 E. Yosemite Ave. • 823-0174

In-Shape Sport: Quail Lakes 2303 W. March Ln. • 472-2230

In-Shape City: Tracy 239 W 11th St. • 833-3370

In-Shape Fit: Manteca 1305 W. Yosemite Ave. • 249-7003

In-Shape City: Hammer Lane 7920 Kelley Dr. • 472-2105

In-Shape Sport: Tracy 101 S. Tracy Blvd. • 836-2504

Lathrop Location

In-Shape City: Downtown 6 S. El Dorado • 472-2190

In-Shape Fit: Tracy 2311 N. Tracy Blvd. • 836-8787

In-Shape Sport: Marina 6545 Embarcadero • 472-2111 8

SAN JOAQUIN PARENT & KIDS NOV/DEC l 2013

Indoor & Outdoor Heated Pools & Spas Racquetball Courts // Kids Clubs // & More!

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In-Shape Fitness: Lathrop 15362 Harlan Rd. • 373-2441

LoDi Location In-Shape: Lodi 210 N. Ham Lane • 370-3500

800-5-INSHAPE // www.inshapeclubs.com Valid at participating locations listed on this ad for 14 consecutive days based on date of redemption. Must be a local resident and at least 18 years of age with valid photo ID. Limit one pass per year.

Facilities may vary. Certain restrictions apply. See club for details.

Copyright JATW 2013

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9

HOLIDAYS ON THE

FARM

BY LINDSEY RODRIAN

Holiday

HAPPENINGS

Dell’Osso Family Farm is a holiday dreamland. The pumpkins and haunted castle that accompany Halloween and Thanksgiving will soon be replaced by gently falling snow and colorful lights. As the fifth annual Holidays on the Farm, this dreamy winter wonder land will have the whole family singing, “let it snow, let it snow, let it snow…”

Beginning December 7 and running to January 4, Dell’Osso Farms will enchant the young and old alike. Pick your favorite Christmas tree, make an ornament, and meet the man of the hour, Saint Nick! The option of ice skating and snow tubing in San Joaquin County surely bring the holidays to life. Christmas shopping is made fun at the Country Store, be sure to visit the Bakery for some delicious, old-fashioned treats!

Northern California’s largest farm light show can be enjoyed in your car, on a hayride, or on the Dell’Osso Express Train. This magical mile of lights is an enchanting display. Featuring 240 different lighted displays, and a light tunnel spanning 200 feet, the Dell'Osso has really decked the farm!

BY LINDSEY RODRIAN

MICKE GROVE ZOO PRESENTS ZOO LIGHTS NOVEMBER 29-DECEMBER 1 & DECEMBER 6-8, 5-8 PM

Take a stroll through Micke Grove Zoo to enjoy the sparkling and twinkling of the lights. Now is the time to visit Santa’s workshop, where Christmas wishes can be passed on to the man in the red suit. Photos are available to capture the special moment. In addition, enjoy multiple performances, games, crafts and refreshments. mgzoo.com/zoo/mickegrove, (209) 331-2010 LODI’S ‘CHRISTMAS CAROLS’ PARADE OF LIGHTS Ring in the holiday with Lodi’s Parade of Lights. This year, the theme of Christmas Carols will flood the one mile parade route, beginning at Lockeford Street and ending at Louie Ave. Adorned floats, marching bands, dance groups, and themed vehicles will make it feel a little more like Christmas. December 5, 6:17 PM , lodichamber.com/events/lightparade, (209) 367-7840 TRACY’S HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS CELEBRATION This two day celebration is packed full of holiday fun! Saturday features a family breakfast with Santa, children’s crafts, a dinner dance, and a gift boutique. Sunday’s events include a senior breakfast and a fashion show.

Enjoy the community, the feasts and fun as the city of Tracy rings in the season! November 23-24, 9 AM to 5 PM. tracyshomefortheholidays.com, tracyshomefortheholidays@gmail.com

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SAN JOAQUIN PARENT & KIDS NOV/DEC l 2013

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Dell’Osso Family Farm 26 Stewart Rd. Lathrop, (209) 982-0833 holidaysonthefarm.com

209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinPARENT.com

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HOLIDAY

CRAFTS TO DO AT

HOME

BY KATY “HOLLY” BERRY

Show your kids that Christmas doesn’t begin and end at the mall. These fun craft ideas will get them in the spirit while you trim the tree, deck the halls, and make great gifts together.

You’ll have fun, and you won’t break the bank.

CINNAMON DOUGH ORNAMENTS These ornaments are fun, easy, and they smell great!

WHAT YOU NEED:

2 cups flour, 1 cup salt, 5 tsp. cinnamon, 3/4 to 1 cup water Cookie cutters, Decorating supplies, Ribbon Combine the flour, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl. Gradually stir in water to make the dough. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until smooth and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Roll out the dough until it’s about ¼ - ¾ of an inch thick. Use cookie cutters to create hearts, stars, gingerbread men, or other fun shapes. Use a straw to punch a hole in the top so you can hang the ornament.

Place your ornaments on a baking sheet and bake at 325° for roughly 1.5 hours. Check on them every 45 minutes since the drying time varies with the thickness of the dough. Let your ornament cool before decorating. Use acrylic paints, buttons, ribbon, glitter, or any fun accessory you’d like to make it unique. Thread ribbon through the hole so you can hang it. To help make your ornament last, you can coat it with acrylic varnish after it has completely dried (optional).

REINDEER CANDY BOWL

This makes a great gift or decoration, and Rudolph has never looked cuter.

WHAT YOU NEED:

5-inch terra cotta flower pot. Two shades of brown construction paper or craft foam. White and black construction paper or craft foam. Glue, Red pom-pom, Candy First have your kids trace their hands on the darkest piece of brown paper and cut them out for the antlers. Then use the next lightest shade of brown to cut out two ears. Glue the ears onto the antlers, and then glue the antlers to the back of the pot so they are sticking up. Cut out two white circles and two smaller black circles. Glue the black circles inside the white ones to make eyes.

Glue the eyes to the front of the pot and add the pom-pom for Rudolph’s nose. Fill the pot with candy and Voila! This craft can also be done with smaller terra cotta pots, just use your own creative antler design instead of your hands, and use smaller eyes.

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SAN JOAQUIN PARENT & KIDS NOV/DEC l 2013

PENCIL HOLDER FOR THE TEACHER

Kids can give their teachers some holiday cheer before vacation begins.

WHAT YOU NEED:

A coffee can with a lid, Construction paper Glue/tape, Markers, Decorations First, wrap a fitted piece of construction paper around the coffee can and tape or glue the overlapping edges. Then decorate the can with whatever you’d like. Write your teacher’s name, draw pictures, and even add sparkles or buttons. Cut a few X’s into the lid so your teacher can put their pencils, pens, and paintbrushes in the top.

Optional: Use a hot glue gun to attach a magnet for holding paper clips.

Lights on the Farm A magical drive through a trail of holiday lights.

Santa’s Village

Holidays on the

Farm www.DellossoFamilyFarm.com

Santa Claus • Fresh cut trees

Imagine a place where it snows every day. A place where you can pack up the family and enjoy the snow just minutes away, and feel the spirit of Christmas every day. Your children will giggle, their eyes will light up, and you can enjoy the splendors of Christmas.... Welcome to Holidays on the Farm.

Snow on the Farm

Visit the newest mountain in the Valley-Snow Mountain!

Featuring Snow Mountain Ice Skating Available all day everyday

A 300 foot long tubing hill

Reservations for Snow Mountain STRONGLY Recommended (Only limited walk-ons available) Call (209) 982-0833 or www.SnowOnTheFarm.com

All day Open Air Ice Skating

300 foot long ride

passes are available.

Visit HolidaysOnTheFarm.com for more information and for reservations.

I www.sanjoaquinPARENT.com 13 Open from209.833.9989 December 7th, 2013 until January 4th, 2014

STRESS-FREE

Hol idays

BY NISSA HALLQUIST

The stress of the Holidays is one of the world’s worst-kept secrets. Behind the beautiful twinkling lights, vibrantly wrapped presents, and those delicious, elaborate dinners, we’ve been frantically scurrying to hang those lights, buy and wrap those presents, and cook those meals. So much for Peace on Earth. But it doesn’t have to be stressful. Start a new tradition of a stress-free Christmas by doing things a little differently this year.

SHOPPING STRATEGIES

WORK AS A TEAM

GIFT YOURSELF

To save yourself time and nerves, having a pre-planned Christmas shopping strategy and schedule is a must.

Shopping isn’t the only activity that can benefit from your family breaking down a huge task into workable segments. Not only will the following save time, but it can be the start to traditional holiday family time.

With all the good you’re doing for others, don’t neglect yourself. Go ahead and splurge on a little something to keep yourself in the holiday spirit.

• Plan a day to the mall during the middle of the week to avoid weekend and/or evening crowds.

• Avoid the mall altogether. Try shopping at specialty shops off the beaten path.

Again, you’ll avoid crowds, and you just might find some unexpected treasures and great deals.

• Whenever or wherever you go, have a list ready of who you’re shopping for and what they want.

Take your family along and make each member responsible for completing a section of that list.

• Take care of any unexpected/last minute gifts by pre-purchasing gift cards or gift baskets, or prepare plates of homemade cookies or other nibbles.

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• When cooking, have each family member be responsible for preparing a certain dish: side dish, salad, rolls, or dessert.

• Choose a day, then spend it together decorating. Everyone can pitch-in hanging lights and decorating the tree. Consider having hot cider or cocoa on-hand throughout the day to keep everyone warm and happy.

• Have a baking day, preparing cookies and other goodies together to give as gifts.

• Along those same lines, a gift-wrapping day. Think assembly line.

• Another way to keep the wrapping to a workable minimum is to wrap as you go: Take the extra half-hour to wrap the gifts you bought that same day, and you’ll never have a daunting pile of gifts awaiting

SAN JOAQUIN PARENT & KIDS NOV/DEC l 2013

• A spa day. Nothing soothes the soul like a good massage and facial.

• A new sweater, shoes, or some other cozy article of clothing you’ve always wanted.

• Dinner and a movie. A night on the town makes for the perfect escape away from any holiday chaos.

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SPOTLIGHT | PARENTS BY CHOICE

REAL LIFE

SUPERHEROES

BY ALLEN RUSSELL

When we think of superheroes, what often comes to mind are fictional characters that sport spandex and dramatic capes, lurk on rooftops under the cover of night, waiting for the opportunity to save the world. As we know, this isn’t reality. Real superheroes are invisible to the untrained eye. They are inconspicuous ordinary people who fly under the radar. They never stand on rooftops while waiting for the opportunity to save the world; instead they quietly act on behalf of others. Often times without a simple thank you. Real superheroes serve in various roles. They are moms and dads, big sisters and big

brothers, policemen, firemen, school teachers, soldiers, coaches, mentors, electricians, plumbers and even some politicians, just to name a few.

However, there is one type of superhero that goes virtually unnoticed: foster parents.

In San Joaquin County there are approximately 1,700 foster youth in care. Many have difficult lives and need special care as a result. Consequently, the basic needs of at-risk youth escalate, increasing the difficulty for the caregiver to adequately provide for the child.

For many people this would be a deterrent, but not for foster parents. They seem to overlook

the present challenges to see the greater benefit of raising a foster youth. Like superheroes, foster parents see potential. This is what makes them heroic. The ability to see what can be, as opposed to what is. They step out of themselves, often sacrificing their own needs and desires to invest in the life of a foster youth that in many cases can save their life.

You may be asking yourself “Have I ever met a heroic foster parent?” Chances are you have, possibly in line at the grocery store, in a PTA meeting or maybe one lives next door. As is often the case, you didn’t notice them because they are quietly serving. On behalf of the hundreds of thousands of current and former foster youth around the world, we would like to say THANK YOU for a job well done! You are our real life SUPERHEROES. FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Parents by Choice 2423 W. March Lane Suite 200 Stockton, (209) 478-4554 www.parentsbychoice.net

Making a DIFFERENCE one family at a time!

- No-cost and low-cost healthcare coverage - Hundreds of primary care physicians and specialists - Easy access to your personal doctor - Choice of hospitals and pharmacies - Local and nationwide emergency care - Free 24/7 advice nurse - Serving San Joaquin and Stanislaus Counties Eligibility guidelines apply and may be based in part on household income. Plan availability varies by county.

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1-888-936-PLAN (7526) www.hpsj.com

SPOTLIGHT | MAIN STREET MUSIC

MUSIC

TO THEIR EARS MAIN STREET MUSIC If you’ve been through historic

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SAN JOAQUIN PARENT & KIDS NOV/DEC l 2013

kids that come through the store weekly for lessons.

“I’ve had so many parents tell me their child is doing so much better in life since they started playing music,” he says. “That’s the best compliment I can get. I think there are a few reasons this is true—kids get confidence from doing something that no one else can, solace from all the craziness in this world, and a social outlet in the bonding that goes on between our music students. I love when the kids come in and act like it’s their store—it’s good to see them feel that comfortable here.

In tough economic times, with arts and music programs on the chopping block, Cefalo is quick to point out that Tracy school superintendent Jim Franco has been very supportive of music programs, but that taking music away from kids would be like taking food away. “The first thing I ask when I teach classes at the schools is who’s listened to music already that day, and only a few kids raise their hands,” he says. “And then I ask who’s listened to the radio or watched TV, and almost all the kids raise their hands. Music really is in almost everything we do and hear­.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Main Street Music, Inc. 53 W. Tenth St. Tracy, (209) 839-0150 tracyrocks.com

BRENDA HARTSHORN

KEN CEFALO

downtown Tracy, you’ve probably seen Ken Cefalo’s music store.

Filled from floor to ceiling with instruments, you’ll know the store on Tenth Street by the kids milling about with instruments in cases strapped to their backs. Since Cefalo took over the store in 1993, Main Street Music has evolved into one of the most well-respected music teaching centers in San Joaquin.

“When you get the best teachers, you get more kids involved,” he says. “I’m lucky at this point to be able to cherry-pick and really be choosy with our teachers. I would rather have the students get the best.”

A music lover from an early age, Cefalo attended Cal State Hayward to study teaching and music, but took the more traditional career path once he started a family.

It was only when his dad retired and he asked what Dad would have done differently, that he finally realized it was time to quit his job and open his own music store.

“Back then, you didn’t tell your bosses that you played music. It was very hush-hush. It’s different now, but you had a certain image if you were in a band, and that image wasn’t so acceptable at work.”

Talking to Cefalo, there’s no question that he loves music—he lights up telling a story about an old Happy Days episode where someone pulls off a piano masterpiece out of nowhere—but his real love is the almost three hundred

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Where the Fun Begins!

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19

BY HEATHER REAGAN

GIFTS FROM THE

HEART As the holidays approach, we tend to go into a time of reflection and consider choices about how we want to spend our lives, our time, and our money.

More and more Americans are intentionally choosing simplified lifestyles with less materialism, less distractions, and less hustle and bustle. Instead, we want to create experiences that mattercreating memories with family, carving out time for all those things we have always wanted to do, being more present emotionally, feeling more profoundly, and trying to connect to a more content place within ourselves so that we can carefully and gently affect others.

In an effort to spend your holidays in a more authentic manner, below are some gift giving ideas from that heart that won’t break your bank, but instead provide more meaningful experiences for ourselves and those around us.

Give the gift of home baked goods to friends and neighbors. Add the personal touch of a note about why that person’s presence in your life is important.

Pick a charity-Ask friends and loved ones to donate to the charity that is near and dear to your heart instead of giving you a gift.

Create a scrapbook-(digital or otherwise) that recounts special events or times you shared together throughout the year. You can create these for family members, children, or friends. A great way to get your kids involved in random acts of kindness during the holiday season is to create a Secret Samaritan program. Family members draw

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SAN JOAQUIN PARENT & KIDS NOV/DEC l 2013

names and perform random acts of kindness for their secret family member during the week leading up to Christmas- sweet surprises such as tidying up a bedroom, a candy bar under a pillow, a note of encouragement, or taking on the other family member’s chores for the week.

Create Vouchers for experiences like watching a movie together, giving a massage, or washing the car.

Create a special Playlist of your loved ones favorite music and put it on their iPod. Write a blog about why you admire a particular friend or loved one, and why they have made a difference in your life. Send them the link to the blog.

Host a child in another country. As a family, Adopt an animal from a shelter that touches your heart.

Host a holiday dinner and have each guest bring something homemade- either an heirloom recipe, or a favorite dish, and gather around the table and have everyone share why they brought this dish and what it means to them. Go further, and have everyone share something they are grateful for this year.

A great way to get the whole family and extended family together is to Purchase a genealogy software program and get everyone involved in creating your family’s history. You will hear recollections, stories, and find that the experience of fellowship while creating your family’s history is gift from the heart in itself.

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21

BLENDING the HOLIDAYS

BY HEATHER REAGAN

The holidays are known for provoking feelings of eager anticipation, excitement, and joy. But for divorced or blended families, the holidays can feel fragmented, stressful, and even lonely. Unfortunately, the back and forth shuffling can leave kids with intense anxiety. As a mom of three kids, and a step mom of three kiddos, (we are a modern day Brady Bunch) I have found that the key to preserving holiday bliss is to keep kids first- as rudimentary as it is in theory and in practice.

Simple things can make the difference between cherished memories or sorted recollections.

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SAN JOAQUIN PARENT & KIDS NOV/DEC l 2013

Forecast, and re-forecast. Kids naturally desire routine, so maintaining something they can count on is especially important during the holidays. Parents should coordinate a holiday schedule far in advance and then communicate that schedule with their children. Follow up if there are any changes in the schedule. My first holiday with my step kids, I sat down with my children before they came and planned activities for all of us. Not only did this comfort their tangled nerves, it also showed them that we were excited about their visit.

Treat. If you’re a stickler like I am about dinner before dessert, loosen the reigns around the holidays. I know my step kiddos’ stomachs were in knots at various times throughout the holidays- missing their mom, worrying about

what’s to come, and what they were missing out on- so, easing up on their normal wholesome nutrition regimen just made sense. Their anxiety was at the forefront of my mind, so I rationally reckoned it was at theirs, too. I wanted them to feel more relaxed and less stressed at family meal time, so I dished out the free passes for carefree eating. But don’t spoil. On the flip side of routine resides chaos, which kids can sense a mile away, so keep a steady grip on the spoils. (This also goes for gifts, too; everything in moderation.)

Create new traditions, honor old traditions, and marry one or two. Find out the special things that are cherished by your blendedfamily, and include them into your day while also coming up with new ideas for the whole family. My kids and I had puzzle races every Thanksgiving.

So, our first Thanksgiving as a blended family, we split off in teams- The Steps face the Bios. After the first race, blended teams were created and a second puzzle race ensued.

Puzzle races are now a married family tradition along with a “friendly” game of parents vs. kids in HORSE. We also have a new tradition of citing our most coveted thing, item, favor, gift, experience or achievement throughout the year. Marrying

some old with some new helps remove a bit of the nervousness children feel about what to expect. It also sends the message that your step kids belong, unmatched genetics and all.

For Pete’s sake (or Billy’s, or Susie’s) don’t compete. Adults need to be good co-parents all of the time, but especially during the holidays. Giving gifts is not about making one parent look good at the other parent’s expense. Set a budget which both sets of parents will agree to and can follow. Share the expense of a big ticket item.

Create the opportunity to open the lines of communication and work together, not against each other, so the kids can prosperand not just materially.

Give a little, Get a little. Put a moratorium in place on the war between you and your Ex. Post-holiday battle can resumegranted the kids are free and clear- but transition is tough during the holidays, especially when you factor in extended family’s wishes. When you provide peace offerings, however small, you are doing your part to ease the tension, which makes the already unnerving situation easier on the kids. You just might be surprised at the probable likelihood of your Ex following suit.

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209 830-9666 or 855 330-9666

Come Bounce with Us! KangaZoom is an Indoor Inflatable Play Place for kids.

We offer 22,000 sq. ft. of bouncing inflatables, giant slides, toddler exploration areas and private party rooms. We give great Birthday Parties, have tons of interactive classes and Open Jump.

KangaZoom parties are ideal for birthdays, church and youth groups, team parties, field trips, fundraisers, and mother’s groups.

KangaZoom Tracy will offer: KangaKamps Summer Programs, KangaZumba Excercise Classes, KangaEvents and more!

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1-800-786-ZOOM(9666)

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23

SPOTLIGHT | KEEPING YOUR FAMILY BUSY

CLASSES

YOU

(Or Your Kids)

SHOULD BE TAKING

NOW

COMBO FOR TOTS

Introduce your child to tap and ballet in this fun, interactive class! Students will learn proper ballet and tap technique, coordination, and footwork combinations. The instructor will lead students through warm-ups, center floor exercises, and across the floor movements. No prior experience required.

Ages 2-4.

HIP POP HIP-HOP

Have you ever wanted to learn the dance moves of your favorite music artists? Well, here’s your chance!

This class will teach you the latest steps and the most recent dance styles of artists like Lady Gaga, Usher and more. In addition, students will learn basic principles of pop and hip-hop. Ages 8-12.

POLYNESIAN DANCE

In this introduction to Hawaiian and Tahitian dance, students will learn basic footwork, hip motion, and traditional hand movements within a choreographed dance routine. Ages 4-Adult.

KIDS’ PUBLIC SPEAKING

Students taking this class will learn to be more comfortable speaking in front of an audience as they learn how to use verbal skills, nonverbal skills, and strategies for marketing themselves for roles in dramatic or verbal projects such as plays, musicals, or debate teams. Ages 10-14.

CREATIVE MASK-MAKING WITH CLAY

This class allows participants to create a series of masks based on the human and animal face. Using the unique qualities of clay, students use texture and form to make masks decorated with satin/ glaze and then fired in a kiln. Finished masks will be ready to hang on a wall. Ages 14-Adult.

24

SAN JOAQUIN PARENT & KIDS NOV/DEC l 2013

CREATIVE WRITING & ILLUSTRATING FOR ADULTS

Experience the journey of brainstorming and planning a short story, children’s story, your first novel, or even a screenplay. Students will learn to outline stories, develop characters, and create storyboards. Come join a fellowship of new and ‘used’ (experienced) authors, while being inspired by fellow students’ creativity. For those who want to illustrate as well as write, the instructor will demonstrate while others work on writing.

This class will also discuss publishing, self-publishing, online e-publishing and copyrighting. Ages 18-Adult.

PERUSE THE NEW FALL 2013 CLASSES HERE:

715 Central Ave, Tracy, CA 95376 Phone:(209) 831-6858 http://atthegrand.org

Respect • Academics • Mission • Spirituality

99% of the Class of 2013 continued their formal education with 75% attending a four year university.

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25

COMPILED BY STEPHANIE MCINTOSH

N OV E M B E R DECEMBER

CALENDAR

2013

Thunder Goes Pink- Stockton

Kennel Club Dog Show

NOVEMBER 1 – 2, STOCKTON

NOVEMBER 23 – 25, STOCKTON

Join Stockton’s own hockey team in the annual breast cancer awareness event weekend as they take on the Utah Grizzlies. Along with ticket sales, the funds raised from auctioning off player jerseys will benefit St. Joseph’s Medical Center. 7:30p.m., both games.

Ticket prices vary. Stockton Arena, 248 W. Fremont St., Stockton, (209) 373-1500, stocktonthunder.com

The San Joaquin Kennel Club will host the annual dog show at the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, where over 2,500 dogs from all over the country will compete for top titles. Come out to watch an all-breed match beginning at 5p.m. on Saturday and two all-breed shows on Sunday and Monday from 8:30a.m. – 5p.m. Specific judging times can be found online. Free admission. Parking is $5. San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, 1658 South Airport Way, Stockton, sanjoaquinkc.org

Run/Walk against Hunger NOVEMBER 22, STOCKTON

If you’re looking for a great opportunity to get your family fitness-ready for the holidays, sign up to be a part of the scenic sprint along Stockton’s waterfront.

This family-friendly event starts and finishes at the Port’s baseball stadium. Support a good cause by signing up the little ones for the kids run or registering the whole family for the walk. 8a.m. $10-40. Stockton Ballpark, 404 W. Fremont St., Stockton, (209) 4647369, runagainsthunger.org

26

SAN JOAQUIN PARENT & KIDS NOV/DEC l 2013

Parade of Lights DECEMBER 5, LODI

Don’t miss out as the annual Parade of Lights makes a festive appearance through downtown Lodi. Dive into the merriment with decorated floats, dance groups, marching bands and themed vehicles. It begins at Lockeford St. and ends at Louie Ave. 6:17p.m. Free.

Downtown Lodi, (209) 367-7840, lodichamber.com

STOCKTON CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Where Education Comes First...

9021 WEST LANE, STOCKTON, CA 95210 † 209.957.3043 † 209.957.4120 FAX WWW.CLMINISTRY.COM

REPTILE EXPO SAT., NOV 2 | 10AM - 6PM SUN., NOV 3 | 10AM - 5PM

Santa’s Arrival SAT., NOV 16 | 12AM - 4PM

Black Friday Fri., NOV 29 | MIdnight - 7am Hospitality Lounge, Goodie Bags Holiday Music

Holiday Boutique/ Tracy Relay for Life SAT., Dec 7 | 10AM - 4PM SUN., Dec 8 | 12pM - 6PM

Children’s Event/ Holiday Fantacy Comes Alive SAT., Dec 14 | 1pM - 3PM SUN., Dec 21 | 12pM - 4PM

FREE Gift Wrapping by Non-Profits Dec. 20 - 24 During Mall Hours (while supplies last)

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27

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San Joaquin Magazine San Joaquin Kids San Joaquin & Stanislaus Weddings San Joaquin Magazine’s Medical Guide Visit Our Website for more information:

25th Annual

Zoo Lights a benefit for the Education Program

5PM - 8PM Event subject to cancellation due to inclement weather.

$10 for guests 14+ $5 for guests 3-13 Free for children under 2 Zoo Members receive a $2 discount

GAMES

AND A PICTURE WITH SANTA

Treats and drinks

CRAF

TS

11793 N. Micke Grove Road - Lodi, CA - mgzs@mgzoo.com - (209) 331-2010 - mgzoo.com

SAN JOAQUIN PARENT & KIDS NOV/DEC l 2013

Join the World of Wonders Science Museum for Digology day, where kids will have an opportunity to explore paleontology through handson excavation activities. Included with admission, children will leave with their very own dinosaur fossil, as well as a Digology t-shirt.

Call in advance to reserve a spot. $20 for WOW members or $25 for non-members. World of Wonders, 2 North Sacramento Street, (209) 368-0969, wowsciencemuseum.org

Get ready for the third annual Run/Walk for a Brighter Christmas.

With the addition of the 1 mile Kids Jingle Jam, now the kiddos can take part in the merriment. Ages 4-10 are encouraged to participate in the one mile run in pajamas or a Christmas costume. Don’t forget to get a picture with Santa and grab a free cup of hot chocolate/cider.

Funds raised benefit over 800 families with food and gifts. Bring a gift for $10 off registration. 8 a.m. Eagal Lakes, 12 W. Lorenzen Rd., (209) 640-4252, eagallakes.com

Radio Disney Holiday at Sherwood Mall DECEMBER 7, STOCKTON

Ring in the holidays with Radio Disney’s Rockin Road Crew at Sherwood Mall. This free celebration is for kids 12 and under. With lively music, games and fun prizes, don’t forget to mark your calendar.

1-3 p.m. Sherwood Mall Pacific Avenue, Robinhood Drive, Stockton, (209) 478-1791, sherwoodmall.com

Holidays on the Farm Opening Day DECEMBER 7- JANUARY 4, LATHROP

Membership card and photo ID required

28

DECEMBER 7, LODI

December 7, Tracy

The Micke Grove Zoological Society invites you to the

Nov 29 - Dec 1 and Dec 6 - 8

World of Wonders Digology

Run/Walk for a Brighter Christmas

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

Friday - sunday

Catch the WWE superstars on tour at the Stockton Arena on December 6. Experience the thrilling wrestling action firsthand in a stadium bursting with enthusiasm and energy. The lineup of wrestling superstars includes CM Punk, Randy Orton, Daniel Bryan, Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins, Ryback, Curtis Axel, Kofi Kingston, the Wyatt Family and Roman Reigns. Tickets go on sale Saturday, October 5 at 10 a.m. $15-90. Doors open at 6:30p.m. Event starts at 7:30 p.m. Stockton Arena, 248 W. Freemont St., Stockton, (209) 3731400, stocktonlive.com

It’s that time of year again to clear out the pumpkins and transform Dell’Osso into a winter wonderland. Plenty of fun for all, with ice skating, snow tubing and magnificent light displays. Also, take a stroll through Santa’s village and pick out your Christmas tree. Event times and prices vary. Dell’Osso Family Farm, 26 Stewart Rd., Lathrop, (209) 982- 0833, holidaysonthefarm.com

“When all’s said and done, all roads lead to the same end. So it’s not so much which road you take, as how you take it.”

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30

Lighted Boat Parade DECEMBER 7, STOCKTON

Take your family to the downtown waterfront to watch the thirty-fourth annual parade of boats. Led by the Port of Stockton fireboat, each boat and yacht will be adorned with a dazzling display of lights. Beginning at 5p.m., it is expected to sail into Downtown Stockton near 6p.m. Weberpoint at the Downtown Waterfront, Stockton, (209) 477-7653, mwyc.org

Festival of Trees DECEMBER 7-8, LODI

The Historical Society brings Christmas to Lodi for the twenty-second year with a uniquely Victorian celebration. With over 60 Christmas trees decked out in a spectacular display of lights, the annual Festival of Trees does not disappoint. It’s fun for the entire family, with exhibits, children’s activities, arts and crafts tables and photos with Santa. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. $10 general admission, $1 for ages 2-12. Parking is free with the advance purchase of tickets. San Joaquin County Historical Museum , 11793 N. Micke Grove Rd., Lodi, (209) 331-2055, san joaquinhistory.org

Holidays at the Haggin Museum DECEMBER 14, STOCKTON

Along with the current Driven to Dream exhibition, the Haggin Museum welcomes families for an extra itinerary of kid-friendly fun. In light of the holidays, there will be car-themed holiday decorations and activities geared towards ages 5-12. Reservations aren’t necessary. 1:30 – 3p.m. $5-8 or free for members and children under 10. Haggin Museum, 1201 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton, (209) 940- 6315, hagginmuseum.org

Holiday Pops: ‘Tis the Season with the Broadway Tenors” DECEMBER 14 – 15, STOCKTON

Welcome the holiday season with a joyous holiday performance by the Stockton Symphony and Broadway Tenors. Warm up your vocal cords, because soon enough they’ll have you singing along.

Appearances by Brent Barrett, David Burnham and John Cudia. Saturday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30p.m. $25-60. Warren Atherton Auditorium, 5151 Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 951-0196, stocktonsymphony.org

SAN JOAQUIN PARENT & KIDS NOV/DEC l 2013

Children’s Dance Theatre “The Nutcracker Ballet” DECEMBER 21-22, TRACY

Perfect for children and families, share in the Nutcracker holiday tradition with an enchanting performance by Children’s Dance Theatre. Don’t miss out on a Christmastime classic that brings audiences of all ages together through a spellbinding performance of traditional and contemporary dance. Times and prices vary. Grand Theatre Center, 715 Central Tracy Ave. (209) 831- 6858, atthegrand.org

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31

WINTER JUBILEE FAMILY HOLIDAY EVENT

holiday fun

DEC

12

5-8PM

for all ages

featuring: the yule logs - the hardest working band in snow Business family-friendly band st. Peter’s lutheran Church Children’s Choir Performance Ch ildr en ’s Ga me s FaC e Pai nti nG CraFt station s keepsake ornament, stocking decorating, Cookie decorating C hri stmas li Gh t disPlay

Photos wit h santa story ti me with mr s. Claus Fi rePit wit h s’m ores Bar Bakes hoP & Food stat ions holi day drinks

General admission: kids under the age of 5 are Free, ages 6-12 are $3, and ages 13 and above are $5 General admission includes Photo with santa, storytime with mrs. Claus, live music, Christmas light display Food, games, and crafts are for purchase.

25 05 w. turn e r rd. lodi, CaliForn ia 952 42 • 2 09 .3 34 .69 88 •

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