Wenatchee Mom Blog - May 2017 by The Wenatchee World

Kids Camps & Summer Activities Girls In Sports

Page 5

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Homeschooling

Page 7

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Activities Listings

Page 8-19

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Life Transitions

Page 23

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and More! Supplement to

facebook.com/wenmomblog instagram.com/wenmomblog wenatcheemomblog.com • #wenmomblog

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Wenatchee Mom Blog

Inside PAGE 3

Summer planning

PAGE 4

Tips for an easier mom-life

PAGE 5

Girls in sports

PAGE 6

Alatheia Riding Center

PAGE 7 Messy homeschooling PAGE 8-19 Kids camps & summer activities PAGE 20 Growing a girl PAGE 21

A picture’s worth

PAGE 22 Staying Home PAGE 23 World photo/Mike Bonnicksen

Logan Schneider runs with the football while attending the Rams Football Camp at Eastmont Community Park last summer. This year’s camp runs four days and begins Aug. 14.

Life transitions Cover photo: Christine Potter Photography Publication designer Nancy Phillips

Eastmont Baptist Church 400 S. Kentucky Ave, East Wenatchee

Vacation Bible School will take place Aug 7-11, 5:30-8pm. For ages 4 years old through completed 6th grade.

Wenatchee Mom Blog is published online at wenatcheemomblog.com

New this year, two adult Bible study classes, one for English and one for Spanish. Also, parents that participate in an adult Bible study will be able to join their children during craft time, mission time and snack/recreation time.

Questions about blog content? Contact Mom Blog Editor, Kelli Scott, at kscott@wenatcheeworld.com or 509-661-5205.

Questions about advertising? Contact Advertising Director, Andrea Andrus, at andrus@wenatcheeworld.com or 509-664-7136.

Wenatchee Mom Blog

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Time for summer planning by Kelli Scott Wenatchee Mom Blog Editor

amily trips, long hikes, baseball tournaments, overnight camps and lots and lots of sunscreen. You know what’s coming. It’s almost summer.

community. It’s a lively place, full of conversationsparking posts about parenthood.

Summer can be a busy time for parents with school-aged kids, and the planning starts now. As you make your family’s summer plans, read on for information about camps, sports programs and just about anything else your children could dream of doing around North Central Washington this summer. You’ll also find stories written by local parents — the good, the bad and the funny stuff about raising kids. It’s all just a taste of what’s been going on over on wenatcheemomblog.com. That’s the website launched by The World in 2015. We have a lot of fun with the Wenatchee Mom Blog, a site that has grown into a network of local parents who share stories, offer advice and information about events and resources for kids, and connect with other moms and dads in our

Our roster of local bloggers writes about the struggle — getting everybody up and out of the house in the mornings and juggling our kids’ busy schedules. We write about the good stuff — the bedtime kisses and the adventures we go on as families. We also share recipes, fun links and DIY project ideas, and post weekly roundups of familyfriendly events happening in the valley. If you haven’t already checked out wenatcheemomblog.com, I invite you to catch up with us now. And I wish you all a crazy, busy, happy summer. Kelli is a newspaper writer living in Wenatchee with her husband, children and a good dog named Barkley. She checks Facebook from work to see what crafty things her stay-at-home friends are doing. Kelli blogs about balancing career and family life for wenatcheemomblog.com.

SUMMER CAMPS

SUMME

2017

Kelli Scott with her two daughters.

Icicle Creek Center for the Arts prides itself on an outstanding arts education lineup. Nestled under the beautiful Enchantments in Leavenworth, we offer state-of-the-art facilities, outstanding faculty and coaches, delightful cabins, and a number of practice huts to inspire students in a truly unforgettable setting. Registration and scholarship information available at

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Thursday, May 4, 2017

Wenatchee Mom Blog

Blog Feature

Tips for an easier mom-life

ey moms. I just thought I’d share my favorite tips and tricks for making mom-life a bit easier. We all know that regular meals, good sleep and exercise are good for everyone, but with children it seems especially so. Those basics plus a couple extras make up my best tips.

Clara Field

with kitchen scissors? A knife and fork takes a long time when you have an impatient toddler, and scissors are easier and faster. I’ve cut up hot dogs (lengthwise and then into bites), grapes, toast sticks, pizza, pancakes, waffles, cheese sticks, quesadillas, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches into quarters, grilled cheese into strips, dried plums, sausage patties and links, and the list goes on and on.

1. Early bedtimes and good naps.

I’ve been learning lately Wenatchee about earlier bedtimes to Mom Blog help children sleep better Contributor and even longer in the morning and it’s been so helpful. I’m super guilty of doing errands when they should be sleeping and doing random things around the house when it’s really time to put them to bed. But I would like to get better at protecting their sleep times. And that usually means more sleep for me too! This book has been great: “Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child.” Also babysleepsite.com is interesting to explore.

when we have it. At least 60 minutes outside every day, either all at once or 20 minutes here and there is my goal for my kids (and me)! 4. Listen.

(Good naps: essential.)

With bigger kids, preteens and teens, I find if I just listen and maybe ask a question here and there, they come to their own good conclusions better and faster than all the lecturing I could do.

2. A meal plan.

5. Baby wipes.

I just started this a year and a half ago, but I’m totally into it: I plan a week’s meals on Wednesday or Thursday, shop on Friday and do any meal prep on either Friday afternoon or Saturday. It works for me to stay on budget and always have healthy meals planned. I go for super easy dishes that my children will like — spaghetti and meatballs with Caesar salad, grilled cheese and tomato soup, chicken vegetable stirfry and tacos.

Here’s a practical one. I keep baby wipes near the table where we eat breakfast and lunch, in the bathroom, their bedroom, in my bag, and in the car. They are more than just for changing diapers, right? The littles always have sticky hands and faces, and they work great for wiping a wall with fingerprints, or cleaning up something gross on the floor, and I’ve found they work well to remove a spot from my clothes.

3. Fresh air.

6. And my last and favorite tip: scissors.

We all need it and we all feel so much better

Do you know how many things you can cut

Clara Field is the mother of four children ages 1 to 14. She loves her community and has been blessed with a village in the lovely Wenatchee Valley. In her view, not much can beat a clean, pretty house and a babe in arms. Just add adventures with her husband and children and a long walk in the outdoors. She savors peace and quiet, when she can get it. You can find her daily on Instagram as @shepresents.

Wenatchee’s Elite Dance Studio

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2017

Wenatchee Mom Blog

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Blog Feature

Girls in sports: The power of play

y 5-year-old daughter’s first T-ball game was Tuesday evening. For weeks now, my husband has been out in the yard playing catch with her most nights. The day we registered her for the season, he rushed out to Kelli Scott right Sports and Wenatchee Fitness Outlet Mom Blog and bought Editor her a pink glove. Bless his heart. I made him exchange it for a black one. She’s a ball player when she’s on that field, not a princess.

I grew up with a backstop in my yard and a dad who taught me the three most important words in sports: practice, practice, practice. He still likes to remind me of the day (Just one day, Dad!) when I chose to go to the mall with my friends after practice instead of coming home and taking more grounders with him. I played ball through high school. I met my husband playing in a co-ed, beer-drinking softball league in D.C. So this, my oldest child’s first T-ball game, is significant in my home.

World photo/Mike Bonnicksen

Wenatchee High School second baseman Tiffany Tofani tags out an Eisenhower base runner as she runs towards second base in a game last year.

It is significant also because I know how playing sports can alter the course of a young girl’s life in profound ways. Athletes grow up to be leaders in their communities and at work. Ninety-four percent of female executives played sports as kids, according to a global study by Ernst & Young. Sports changed my own life. Playing team sports helped clarify how I saw myself. It was how I made friends and stayed active and learned to lead and to handle life’s disappointments and to stick it out when things get tough. I’ll never forget the moment I learned I’d been cut from the soccer team junior year. Or the day I got called up to the varsity softball team. Or the silly cheers we belted out

from the dugout. Or the funny, talented girls I played alongside for all those years. Sports shaped me, and I hope against all hope that both of my daughters experience that, too. The odds of that happening are not great, however. According to the Women’s Sports Foundation, girls drop out of sports by age 14 at a rate two times higher than boys. And by age 17, more than half of girls quit sports altogether. When asked why they stopped playing, seven out of 10 girls who quit during puberty said they didn’t feel like they belonged in sports. This June marks 45 years since the passage of Title IX. In 1972, one in 27 girls played

high school sports. Today, that number is two in five. That’s significant progress, but not enough. If we want more women in leadership positions as adults, we need them on the field as girls. All of this is on my mind as I watch my baby girl enter the world of team sports. I am trying not to project all my hopes and fears on her, because I know that if I do, she’ll want nothing to do with baseball. So I keep my crazy to myself. On Tuesday night under gray skies, Kate walked confidently to the plate for her first ever at-bat. After a last-minute tutorial from her coach, she swung away and — Yes! She

connected and the ball plopped forward a few feet. Run, Kate, run! No, toward first! No, that’s the pitcher’s mound. Drop the bat, Kate! Way to go, Kate. We’re proud of you, girl, and we hope you like this game enough to keep playing. Kelli is a newspaper writer living in Wenatchee with her husband, children and a good dog named Barkley. She checks Facebook from work to see what crafty things her stay-at-home friends are doing. Kelli blogs about balancing career and family life for wenatcheemomblog.com.

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Wenatchee Mom Blog

Blog Feature

Alatheia Riding Center ave you heard of this unique place we have in our valley?

Alatheia is a center that offers therapeutic horse riding. It is a member of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International and The Norwegian Fjord Horse Registry. The goals are geared towards independence in life skills. It is a non-profit center and with support from the community, it allows for facility enhancements, equine care Wenatchee and reduced cost lessons Mom Blog Contributor to their participants, which include children and adults.

Marisol Woodward

The benefits of therapeutic activities for the participants include physical, emotional and mental help. Lessons are given all week long. Alatheia features Norwegian Fjord horses only. They are known for their calm and easy-going nature. The team of horses include Frid, Blakken, Sindre, Nils and Marta. Alatheia wouldn’t be possible without its creators Glenn and Nancy Grette who started the center in 2011. The center started with 12 riders and now they have 50 riders weekly. The team consists of two instructors, a lesson assistant and volunteers. Currently, the center has about 40 volunteers. One of them includes my daughter, Soli Brinkman. Soli is almost 15 years old. To be a volunteer, you must be 14 years old.

Soli Brinkman,14, leading the horse with Karin Lenard, 14, daughter of Desirée Miller Schmidt, on horse while training at Alatheia’s indoor arena to become volunteers.

Soli has always loved horses and has been taking riding lessons with Starla at Stardust Ranch in Rock Island for the past couple of years. Prior to that, she began private lessons at age 10 with her wonderful Aunt, Cyd. Soli’s passion for horses brought her to Alatheia. She couldn’t wait until she turned 14 to be a volunteer. She understood that she wouldn’t be riding on the horses, but just to be around them, was good enough. For anyone of age who wants to volunteer at Alatheia, there is a process. You apply and then get trained at the facility. Building Champions for Life!

WenatcheeFootball.org Upcoming Events (register online): Future Champs Football Camp – July 10-13 Golf Tournament - July 21 Youth Flag Football League – September Hall of Fame Dinner – October

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With generous support for our events, we were able to purchase $10,000 worth of new gear for our middle schools!

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Soli went through the process and volunteered all summer. Here is what she had to say about the experience:

“

Alatheia is not all that I expected. It’s even more! It’s one thing to read about horses and people helping people with disabilities, but it’s completely different to see and experience it for yourself. I remember my first day at Alatheia. I was kinda lost and didn’t know anyone. I knew in my heart the magic that these horses can do for people, but I would never expect to experience it on the first day. There was one child who was pretty young and I didn’t know what specific disability he had but he ‘parroted’ you, or in other words, he repeated everything you said, word for word. He also didn’t like to stretch that much which is one of the things we were working on. At the beginning he could barely lift his arms, but by the end he could stretch them full length in all directions! That may not seem like that big of an accomplishment for you or me, but if you put yourself in his shoes, it’s a really big deal! I’m usually a lead walker at Alatheia, which means that my main focus is on the horse and making sure it doesn’t spook or put the rider in danger at all. The horses are amazing there and so friendly, the easiest horses you could fall in love with. The changes that I’ve seen throughout the summer are truly unforgettable. From a 2-year-old to an 80-year-old, I’ve seen it all. Everyone at Alatheia is like one big family. We always greet each other like we’ve known each other all our lives.”

Soli greeting Blakken.

I am very proud of Soli. She realizes that it’s not about her needs or passion for horses, but about others and giving back to our community. Soli will continue to volunteer as her schedule allows while in school. She is committed for the summers. How can you help? Spread the word, volunteer, become a member or by attending their annual events. And be sure to check out the website for more information. Alatheia Riding Center is located at 2170 Sleepy Hollow Heights, and volunteer inquiries can be emailed to volunteers@alatheiaridingcenter.com.

Joyful Beginnings Preschool invites you to our FREE Mommy and Me summer activities every Wednesday from June 14th through July 5th from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Children ages 3 to 5 and their families are welcome to join us for stories, singing, dancing, science investigations, and more.

Call 509-888-7771 for more information! Calvary Chapel Fellowship Wenatchee • 2200 N. Baker, East Wenatchee • www.ccwenatchee.org

Wenatchee Mom Blog

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Blog Feature

Messy homeschooling

hen I was a teacher, I started meetings with parents by asking them to tell me about their child. I wasn’t trying to quiz them, though some may have felt that way. I mean, they hadn’t written everything down for the past five years and come in with a special 0-5 report especially for their child’s kindergarten teacher – I wish! That’s just not what parents Wenatchee Mom Blog do!

ideas and authentic experiences so she can grab onto subjects and ideas that interest her, choosing when and how to go deeper. At the age of six, she probably won’t go very deep before moving on to the next interest. But if she has the freedom to grab on in the first place, hopefully she’ll know she can go back and learn more about it again. Any time she wants. I remember the teacher-satisfaction I felt each June as I packed up my classroom, knowing that my students had progressed in reading, writing, math, and could talk about metamorphosis.

Stephanie Ross

But as I put certain materials back up into the cupboards I would feel depressed that they hadn’t painted, worked with their hands, or explored nearly enough. The freedom that a child ought to feel about learning just hadn’t been part of the program.

Contributor

Documentation is embedded in the best practices of a teacher, and (rightly so) more formal than how a parent brings up a child. That doesn’t automatically make it better than what a parent does every day. I consider parents to be their child’s first and most important educator. Period.

The satisfaction that I feel now is different. It is a deep sense of pleasure which comes from knowing I’ve changed the learning paradigm for my kids. God willing, each of my daughters will have the time and the opportunity to direct her own learning. She may miss things, learn them later, or maybe even sooner than the average kid her age, but I think she’ll have the skills and abilities to find a way to fill the holes.

It’s part of that built-in bond that really can’t be denied; even in the worst circumstance, it’s still there. In a sense, our role as parents makes us “homeschoolers,” even if we go to work, even if our children are enrolled in a program, or learning institution. Now that I’m a parent and at home full-time, I’ve chosen to homeschool all the time, at least for now. My oldest is six (law says I don’t need to sign her up for school until she’s eight), so I’m not doing much of anything “formal” right now. But I know that learning is happening nonetheless. It would be a pleasure for me to apply my formal teaching habits to my own children. I’ve been trained to think that way, and I do love to be organized. So many of my homeschooling friends make plans, and they come up with some great stuff! I honor their hard work and dedicated focus, and I really do think they know what’s best for their household. But like all the parents I’ve mentioned above, I know my child, too. Right now she wants to selfdirect. Color. Imagine. Read. PLAY. Ask a lot of questions. Be with her sisters.

If I were to put a learning program in front of her right now, she’d grimace, stomp all over my beautiful plans, and then use them for scratch paper for her art next project. And I’d feel like crap. So why would I even go there? Why would I do that to her?

I couldn’t parent and be a full-time classroom teacher at the same time. I was way too stressed. Maybe I’m still adjusting. Perhaps I’ll be able to up my game – maybe even add a side career – in the future. Maybe I’ll stay this way. Either way, my goal is to maintain sanity in the NOW.

Because it is also about ME (not to sound selfish or anything). When I consider all the other ways that I have to organize in order to manage household projects, meals, routines, and even daily chores, I’m glad I have chosen to hold off writing lesson plans on top of it all.

She’s so busy right now, I’d probably just hold her back if I tried to plan out her learning. While certain landmarks are developmental and desired (and believe me I’m watching out for all those and helping her take the next step), there are other things that just don’t need a time table or special sequence. I mean, if she’s not interested in a subject right now, it’s probably a waste of time anyway.

It’s partly why I quit classroom teaching. I knew

I want her (and her sisters) to be marinated in

To myself?

In the end, it’s important to know that we did the very best by our kids. There will of course be regrets, things we might have done differently, and stuff that simply was outside of our realm of control. But hopefully the evidence of our love and passion for them will be undeniably apparent, and we’ll be able to rest at night knowing that they’ve grown up to become capable and functional adults. Stephanie has lived in Wenatchee for about a decade. She met her amazing husband, Zach, here in Wenatchee. They have been married eight years. She enjoyed teaching bilingual kindergarten with Wenatchee Public Schools, until family growth called her homeward to raise three daughters, three chickens, and 0.03 acres of edible garden! She stays connected to the neighborhood through good food, hiking, gardening, homeschooling, and doula work. Her life experiences have been influenced by Pacific Northwest country living along with some short stints in metropolitan and international settings, primarily Seattle and Puebla City, Mexico. Zach and Stephanie hope to one day establish a homestead and community-centered farm, “Joel Salatin style.”

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Wenatchee Mom Blog

What should we do this summer? Kids Camps & Summer Activities DAY CAMPS ◆ Eastmont Parks Summer Day Camp

Who: Kids ages 6-11 When: June 10-Aug. 25 Where: Eastmont Parks & Recreation Activities: Daily games, activities, arts and crafts, swimming and weekly field trips Organization: Eastmont Parks and Recreation Cost: Weekly rates of $85 for 5 days, $75 for 4 days, $65 for 3 days Information: 884-8015 or eastmontparks.com

◆ Wenatchee Parks Summer Day Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 1-5 When: June 12–Aug. 18; 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m;

Monday-Friday Where: Wenatchee program site Activities: Each week is a different theme and activities are developed around that theme. Themes include swimming, games, outdoor fun and crafts. Organization: Wenatchee Parks and Recreation Cost: $25 per day or $23 for City of Wenatchee residents Information: wenatcheewa.gov

◆ YMCA Summer Day Camp

Who: Children in grades K-4 in May 2017 When: Weekly sessions begin June 12, 19, 26, July

3, 10, 17, 24, 31 and Aug. 7, 14, 21; Monday-Friday; 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley YMCA, 217 Orondo Ave. Activities: Daily trips to area parks, swimming lessons, arts and crafts, games, climbing wall, and special activities related to weekly themes all under the supervision of trained group leaders Organization: Wenatchee Valley YMCA Cost: $180 per week or $160 for members. Financial assistance available. Information: wenymca.org, 662-2109

◆ YMCA Youth and Teen Center

Who: Children in grades K-8 as of May 2017 When: June 12-Aug. 27 Where: Wenatchee Valley YMCA, 217 Orondo Ave.

Activities: Supervised activities including fitness arcade, game room, learning center, science activities, and arts and crafts Organization: Wenatchee Valley YMCA Cost: $3 per day or free for members Information: wenymca.org, 662-2109

◆ Wild Things! Summer Day Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 1-6 When: Weekly sessions starting July 3; Monday-

Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Where: Cascade UU Fellowship, 1550 Sunset Highway, East Wenatchee Activities: Outdoor play; kids can bring bikes, skateboards; water play; walks to the river; weekly themed activities in literature, music, art, science. No more than 15 campers in a session. Organization: Cascade Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Cost: $165 for the week (except July 3, 5-7: $135) Sibling discount Information: cascadeuu.org, 387-1083

◆ Out on the Town Day Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 5-7 When: July 10-13, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will explore different downtown

Photo provided

Established in 1933, Camp Zanika is owned and operated by the North Central Washington Council of Camp Fire.

Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural

available.

locations and learn about local landmarks and history. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $170 or $160 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Game On! Day Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 5-7 When: July 17-20, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will study the centuries-old

◆ Tour-A-Culture: Mexico Day Camp

Session 2, July 24-27, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will explore games old and new and create their own takes on classics. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are

country’s influence on U.S. cuisine, language and art. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: July 10-13, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn about the food, arts

and crafts, music, dance and traditional holidays of Mexico.

Who: Kids entering grades 1-2 When: Session 1, July 10-13, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.;

Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Tour-A-Culture: Spain Day Camp

Wenatchee Mom Blog First week is training then opportunity to sign up for additional weeks. Organization: Camp Fire NCW Cost: $624 or $599 for Camp Fire members; additional fees for special sessions. Financial assistance available Information: zanika.net, 663-1609

crafts, archery; optional specialty horseback riding, rafting or culinary camps. Organization: Camp Fire NCW Cost: $375-$399 or $350-$374 for Camp Fire members; additional fees for special sessions. Financial assistance available. Information: zanika.net, 663-1609

◆ Lake Wenatchee YMCA Mini Camp

◆ Camp Zanika Leadership (LIT) sessions

Who: Children in grades K-2 as of May 2017 When: July 2-5, 9-12, 16-19, 23-26, July 30-Aug. 2, Aug. 6-9 Where: Lake Wenatchee YMCA Camp Activities: Overnight camping experience with campfires, waterfront activities, hiking, arts and crafts, archery, and games all under the supervision of trained cabin leaders. Campers sleep in cabins with five other children and two cabin leaders. Organization: Wenatchee YMCA Cost: $256 per session or $236 for members. Financial assistance available. Information: wenymca.org, 662-2109

◆ Lake Wenatchee YMCA Discovery Camps Photo provided

Camp Zanika has a more than 80-year history of providing positive camp experiences for school-aged children.

◆ YMCA T-Wave Day Camp

CAMPING

17, 24, 31 and Aug. 7; Monday- Friday; 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Valley YMCA, 217 Orondo Ave. Activities: Campers plan their own week including service learning, team building, budgeting and a variety of recreation activities under the supervision of trained group leaders. Organization: Wenatchee Valley YMCA Cost: $225 or $205 for members. Additional $85 required for weeks of July 10 and 24. Financial assistance available. Information: wenymca.org, 662-2109

Who: Parents and children of all ages When: May 26-29, Sept. 1-3 Where: Lake Wenatchee YMCA Camp Activities: Overnight camping experience with campfires, waterfront activities, hiking, arts and crafts, archery, games and food service. Organization: Wenatchee Valley YMCA Cost: $145 for adults 16 and older, $100 children 6-15, children under 5 camp for free. Non-members pay an additional $20 per family. Financial assistance available. Information: wenymca.org, 662-2109

Who: Children in grades 5-7 as of May 2017 When: Weekly sessions begin June 19, 26, July 3, 10, ◆ Lake Wenatchee YMCA Camp Family Camp

◆ Ingalls Creek Day Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 2-6 When: July 24-28 Where: Ingalls Creek Enrichment Center, 7 miles up Blewett Pass Highway Activities: Giant tree house, kid-sized zip line, craft gazebo arts, all-camp water games, Bible trail talks, forest nature walks Organization: Ingalls Creek Enrichment Center Cost: $145 for the week, $135 if registered by July 6. Information: 548-3306, registrar@ingallscreek.org, ingallscreek.org

◆ Power of Play Day Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 1-2 When: July 24-27, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will build a giant obstacle course and a parachute target. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Camp Zanika Explorer “Inventors Lab”

Who: Kids in grades 1-12 When: June 26-July 1 Where: Lake Wenatchee, Camp Zanika Lache Activities: Camping, fishing, hiking, waterfront activities, kayaking, canoeing, team-building activities, learning to cook over a fire or camp stove, arts and crafts, archery; optional specialty horseback riding, rafting or culinary camps. Organization: Camp Fire NCW Cost: $375-$399 or $350-$374 for Camp Fire member; additional fees for special sessions. Financial assistance available Information: www.zanika.net, 663-1609

◆C amp Zanika Counselor in Training (CIT) sessions

Who: Kids entering grades 11-12 in the fall When: June 26-July 1 with an opportunity to sign up for additional weeks Where: Lake Wenatchee, Camp Zanika Lache Activities: In-depth leadership program that fosters independence and builds skills to work towards being a camp staff member. CITs join a long tradition of spirited, dedicated high school youth that love camp and want to work with kids, Youth will learn about other Camp Fire camps, plan a camping trip, enjoy waterfront activities, arts and crafts, archery; optional specialty horseback riding, rafting or culinary camps.

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Who: Children in grades 2-4 as of May 2017 When: July 2-7, 9-14, 16-21, 23-28, July 30-Aug. 4, Aug. 6-11 Where: Lake Wenatchee YMCA Camp Activities: Overnight camping experience with campfires, waterfront activities, campouts, hiking, arts and crafts, archery, and games all under the supervision of trained cabin leaders. Organization: Wenatchee YMCA Cost: $456 per session or $436 for members. Financial assistance available. Information: wenymca.org, 662-2109

◆ Lake Wenatchee YMCA Explorer Camps

Who: Children in grades 5-7 as of May 2017 When: July 2-7, 9-14, 16-21, 23-28, July 30-Aug. 4, Aug. 6-11 Where: Lake Wenatchee YMCA Camp Activities: Overnight camping experience with campfires, waterfront activities, campouts, hiking, arts and crafts, archery, and games all under the supervision of trained cabin leaders. Organization: Wenatchee YMCA Cost: $456 per session or $436 for members. Financial assistance available. Information: wenymca.org, 662-2109

◆ Camp Zanika Mini Camp “The Great Hunt” Who: Kids in grades K- 4 When: July 6-9 Where: Lake Wenatchee, Camp Zanika Lache Activities: Campfires, fishing, special Pooh’s walk, team-building initiatives, build sandcastles, fairy houses, waterfront activities, skip rocks, make a craft project, archery and games. Participants will sleep in cabins with other children under supervision of trained adult counselors. Organization: Camp Fire NCW Cost: $225 or $200 for Camp Fire members per session. Financial assistance available. Information: zanika.net, 663-1609

◆ Camp Zanika Explorer “Ninja vs Zombie”

Who: Kids in grades 1-12 When: July 10-15 Where: Lake Wenatchee, Camp Zanika Lache Activities: Camping, fishing, hiking, waterfront activities, kayaking, canoeing, team building activities, learning to cook over a fire or camp stove, arts and

Who: Kids entering grades 9-10 in the fall When: July 10-22 Where: Lake Wenatchee, Camp Zanika Lache Activities: Regular camp activities plus leadership development, positive role-modeling, outdoor skill development, communication skills. Youth will plan an overnight camping trip, enjoy waterfront activities, arts and crafts, archery; optional specialty horseback riding, rafting or culinary camps. Organization: Camp Fire NCW Cost: $624 or $599 for Camp Fire members; additional fees for special sessions. Financial assistance available. Information: zanika.net, 663-1609

◆ Camp Zanika Explorer “Mad Scientist”

Who: Kids in grades 1-12 When: July 16-22 Where: Lake Wenatchee, Camp Zanika Lache Activities: Camping, fishing, hiking, waterfront activities, kayaking, canoeing, team-building activities, learning to cook over a fire or camp stove arts and crafts, archery; hands-on science experiments; optional specialty horseback riding, rafting or culinary camps. Organization: Camp Fire NCW Cost: $375-$399 or $350-$374 for Camp Fire members; additional fees for special sessions. Financial assistance available. Information: zanika.net, 663-1609

◆ Camp Zanika Explorer “Pirates”

Who: Kids in grades 1-12 When: July 30 - Aug. 5 Where: Lake Wenatchee, Camp Zanika Lache Activities: Camping, fishing, hiking, waterfront activities, kayaking, canoeing, team-building activities, learning to cook over a fire or camp stove arts and crafts, archery, treasure hunts, plank walks, pirate ship regatta; optional specialty horseback riding, rafting or culinary camps. Organization: Camp Fire NCW Cost: $375-$399 or $350-$374 for Camp Fire members; additional fees for special sessions. Financial assistance available. Information: zanika.net, 663-1609

◆ Camp Zanika Culinary Camps

Who: Kids in grades 1-6 When: July 30-Aug. 5 for grades 1-3; Aug. 6-12 for grades 4-6 Where: Lake Wenatchee, Camp Zanika Lache Activities: Spend part of the week at camp as a chef, working within a group, learn cooking techniques and still enjoy all that camp has to offer. Camping, fishing, hiking, waterfront activities, team-building activities, learning to cook over a fire or camp stove arts and crafts, archery. Optional specialty horseback riding or rafting camps. Organization: Camp Fire NCW Cost: $449 or $424 for Camp Fire members; additional fees for special sessions. Financial assistance available. Information: zanika.net, 663-1609 Continued on Page 10

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Wenatchee Mom Blog ◆ Kid vs. Wild Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 4-6 When: July 31–Aug. 4, 10 a.m.

to 3 p.m. Where: Wenatchee River Institute, 347 Division St., Leavenworth Activities: Campers explore local trails and learn important wilderness skills like archery, fire building, compass orienteering and tool making. Organization: Wenatchee River Institute Cost: $225 Information: 548-0181 ext. 3, programs@wenatcheeriverinstitute.org, wenatcheriverinstitute.org

◆ F orest Discoveries Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 4-6 When: Aug. 7-11, 10 a.m. to

3 p.m.

◆ Camp Zanika Explorer “Color Wars”

Who: Kids in grades 1-12 When: Aug. 6-12 Where: Lake Wenatchee, Camp Zanika Lache Activities: Camping, fishing, hiking, waterfront activities, kayaking, canoeing, team building activities, learning to cook over a fire or camp stove arts and crafts, archery, color-war activities; optional specialty horseback riding, rafting or culinary camps. Organization: Camp Fire NCW Cost: $375-$399 or $350-$374 for Camp Fire members; additional fees for special sessions. Financial assistance available. Information: zanika.net, 663-1609

◆ Camp Zanika Explorer “House Cup”

Who: Kids in grades 1-12 When: Aug. 13-19 Where: Camping, fishing, hiking, waterfront activities, kayaking, canoeing, team-building activities, learning to cook over a fire or camp stove arts and crafts, archery; optional specialty horseback riding, rafting or culinary camps. Organization: Camp Fire NCW Cost: $375-$399 or $350-$374 for Camp Fire members; additional fees for special sessions. Financial assistance available. Information: zanika.net, 663-1609

◆ Camp Zanika Teen Adventure Camp

Who: Kids in grades 7-12 When: Aug. 13-19 Where: Lake Wenatchee Camp Zanika Lache Activities: Designed especially for coed teenagers 13-17 who want to have an unforgettably unique summer! Spend the week in a tent. The first part of the week camping and backpacking and then the last two days at camp enjoying waterfront activities. Organization: Camp Fire NCW Cost: $449 or $424 for Camp Fire members; additional fees for special sessions. Financial assistance available. Information: zanika.net, 663-1609

OUTDOORS ◆ River Wild Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 4-6 When: July 10-14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Wenatchee River Institute, 347 Division St., Leavenworth Activities: Explore the rivers through paddleboarding, tubing and river snorkeling. Experts will teach students how to continue exploring after camp is over. Organization: Wenatchee River Institute Cost: $250 Information: 548-0181 ext. 3, programs@ wenatcheeriverinstitute.org, wenatcheriverinstitute.org

◆ Outdoor Adventures: Rivers Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 7-9 When: July 17–21, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Wenatchee River Institute, 347 Division St.,

Leavenworth Activities: Campers will enjoy paddle-boarding, snorkeling, hiking and overnight camping around Lake Wenatchee. Organization: Wenatchee River Institute Cost: $250 Information: 548-0181 ext. 3, programs@ wenatcheeriverinstitute.org, wenatcheriverinstitute.org

◆ Rock On Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 4-6 When: July 24–28, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Wenatchee River Institute, 347 Division St.,

Leavenworth Activities: Camp explores rock climbing with the professionals at Northwest Mountain School. Students will also learn about the cool rocks around Leavenworth. Organization: Wenatchee River Institute Cost: $250 Information: 548-0181 ext. 3, programs@ wenatcheeriverinstitute.org, wenatcheriverinstitute.org

Where: Wenatchee River Institute, 347 Division St., Leavenworth Activities: Campers explore local trail, learn about plant and animal diversity and play games. Organization: Wenatchee River Institute Cost: $200 Information: 548-0181 ext. 3, programs@ wenatcheeriverinstitute.org, wenatcheriverinstitute.org

◆ Outdoor Adventures: Mountains Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 7-9 When: Aug. 14-18, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Wenatchee River Institute, 347 Division St.,

Leavenworth Activities: Outdoor leadership camp includes backwoods team challenges, hikes to alpine lakes and two nights at the Scottish Lakes High Camp. Organization: Wenatchee River Institute Cost: $300 Information: 548-0181 ext. 3, programs@ wenatcheeriverinstitute.org, wenatcheriverinstitute.org

SCIENCE ◆ Mad Scientist Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 1-2 When: June 12-15, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn about science through fun and interactive projects including the study of chemical reactions, applied physics and engineering challenges. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Lego Design and Build Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: June 12-15, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will use creative thinking,

problem solving, team work and thousands of Legos to create projects. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ TinkerLab Build Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 1-2 When: Session 1, June 12-15, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.; Session 2, June 19-22, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will create using raw materials like duct tape, Legos, insulation pipe, marshmallows, gumdrops and toothpicks. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Mad Scientist II Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: June 12-15, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will explore the fun side of science creating putty, bubbling potions, slime and a high-bouncing polymer ball. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Brick Town Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 5-7 When: June 12-15, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will use patterns, their imaginations and Legos to create the futuristic structure of their dreams. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Electrical Contraptions Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 5-7 When: June 19-22, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will use batteries, gadgets and circuits to create electrical contraptions. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Flying, Flinging Circuits Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 1-2 When: June 19-22, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will use snap circuits to build a flying saucer and learn about electricity. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

Wenatchee Mom Blog ◆ Wire Works and Wonders Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 1-2 When: June 26-29, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will use wire, gears and wheels to create whirling masterpieces. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Duct Tape Engineering Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 5-7 When: June 26-29, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will make homemade roller coasters, rockets and boats from Duct Tape. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

Organization: Chelan County PUD Cost: Free Information: chelanpud.org, 663-7522

◆ Snap Circuit Sound Camp

Thursday, May 4, 2017

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Who: Kids entering grades 1-2 When: July 10-13, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will use snap circuits to experiment with making sounds. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Crazy Critters Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 1-3 When: July 10–14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Wenatchee River Institute, 347 Division St., Leavenworth Activities: Camp includes bug collecting, holding live animals, visiting local farm animals, helping an expert dissect a salmon and animal games. ◆ More Wire Works & Wonders Camp Organization: Wenatchee River Institute Who: Kids entering grades 1-2 Cost: $200 When: June 26-29, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Information: 548-0181 ext. 3, programs@ wenatcheeriverinstitute.org, wenatcheriverinstitute.org Activities: Students will experiment with different wire types and use a wire toolkit to shape structures. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural ◆ Lego Extravaganza Camp Who: Kids entering grades 1-2 Center When: Session 1, July 17-20; Session 2, Aug. Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are 14-17; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. available. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, Activities: Students can build tall towers or 888-6240 fanciful creatures with the museum’s collection of ◆ Chelan County PUD’s Summer Science thousands of Legos. Half-day session is available. Weeks Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Who: Kids entering grades 1-3 Center When: July 5-7 and July 19-21; 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Cost: $170 or $140 for members. Scholarships are Where: Rocky Reach Dam available. Activities: Hydropower experts will lead weekly Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, science classes. Registration is required and space 888-6240 is limited. Continued on Page 12

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Thursday, May 4, 2017 ◆ Squishy Circuits Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: July 17-20, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will use Playdough to create real battery-powered circuits. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Lego Design and Build II Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: July 17-20, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will study some of the world’s most interesting structures and then create their own structure out of Legos. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Coding and Visual Programming Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 5-7 When: July 24-27, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn the basics of programming and application development. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Build Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: July 24-27, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will build big using cardboard, recycled lumber and carpentry tools. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ 3D Printing Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 5-7 When: Session 1, July 24-27, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.; Session 2, Aug. 14-17, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will develop 3D modeling and engineering fundamentals and create unique designs on 3D printers. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $170 or $160 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Soil to Snack Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 1-3 When: July 24–28, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Wenatchee River Institute, 347 Division St., Leavenworth

Wenatchee Mom Blog Activities: Camp includes exploring local farms and community gardens, making snacks, observing cool critters and playing games. Organization: Wenatchee River Institute Cost: $200 Information: 548-0181 ext. 3, programs@wenatcheeriverinstitute. org, wenatcheriverinstitute.org

◆ Coding for Kids Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: July 31-Aug. 3, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn coding with Sphero, a hand-sized ball that can be programmed to do tasks such as change colors, run a circuit and keep the beat to a song. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ littleBits Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: July 31-Aug. 3, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will use littleBits, fun electronic building blocks, to create inventions. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Lego Robotics I Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: Aug. 7-10, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn the basics of Lego Mindstorm robot programming. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Lego Build Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: Aug. 7-10, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will use creative building and problem solving to create make-and-take Lego projects. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Lego Robotics II Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 5-7 When: Aug. 7-10, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center

Activities: Students will cover the basics and beyond of Lego Mindstorm robot programming. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Advanced Electronics Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: Aug. 14-17, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn beginning soldering and build a radio kit. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Paper Inventions Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: Aug. 14-17, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn soldering and how to build a radio kit. This session will go beyond the morning course. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Advanced Electronics II Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 5-7 When: Aug. 14-17, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn soldering and how to build a radio kit. This session will go beyond the morning course. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are

available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Building Basics and Beyond

Who: Kids entering grades 1-7 When: Aug. 21-24, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will meet in age- and skill-related groups to learn and use building skills. Full and half-day courses are available. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $170 or $160 for members for full day; $85 or $70 for members for half day. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

PRACTICAL SKILLS ◆ The Art of Baking Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 5-7 When: June 12-15, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn how to create chocolate treats, quick breads and dazzling desserts. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Cooking Concoctions Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: June 19-22, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn how to mix, bake and stir fry using recipes that incorporate locally sourced ingredients. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

Wenatchee Mom Blog Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn how to make various styles of pizzas using locally sourced ingredients. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ American Red Cross Home Alone Safety Course

◆ American Red Cross Babysitter Training

Who: Kids 11-15 When: June 20 in Leavenworth or June 22, 30 or July 13 in Wenatchee; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: TBA Leavenworth location or Cornerstone Christian Church, 12 N. Chelan Ave., Wenatchee Activities: Students learn skills to become skilled babysitters. Organization: American Red Cross Cost: $40 Information: 548-1830 or leavenworthlearning.com

◆ Pizza Pie Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: June 26-29, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Who: Kids 8-12 When: June 27 in Leavenworth or June 23, 29 or July 14 in Wenatchee; 9 a.m. to noon. Where: TBA Leavenworth location or Cornerstone Christian Church, 12 N. Chelan Ave., Wenatchee Activities: Students learn skills to safely stay home by themselves. Organization: American Red Cross Cost: $25 Information: 548-1830 or leavenworthlearning.com

◆ South American Cooking Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 5-7 When: July 17-20, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn how to craft classic South American cuisine from Peru, Brazil, Argentina and Chile.

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240 ◆ Beyond Basics: Kitchen Creations Camp Who: Kids entering grades 5-7 When: July 31-Aug. 3, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn how to use a budget to plan a meal, find recipes and cook a four-course meal. Course includes a field trip to Pybus Public Market. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Gross Grub Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 1-2 When: Aug. 7-10, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn how to create fun and delicious food like cow chips, dirty bathwater, worms in mud, dirt clods, snake guts and terrible tacos. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆K itchen Concoctions Camp Who: Kids entering grades 1-2 When: Aug. 7-10, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn tasty beginner recipes such as fruit Popsicles and salad and homemade dressing. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

MUSIC ◆ I cicle Creek Summer Symphony Camp Who: Kids ages 8-18 When: June 18-24 Where: Icicle Creek Center for the Arts campus, 7409 Icicle Road, Leavenworth Activities: An intensive week of orchestral study and performance for young musicians in a mountain setting. Other activities may include hiking, shopping, mini-golf, rafting, horseback riding,board games, movie nights, a talent show and scavenger hunts. Organization: Icicle Creek Center for the Arts Cost: $550 for day camp, $950 for overnight camp; scholarships are available. Information: icicle.org, 548-6347 Continued on Page 14

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Thursday, May 4, 2017

Wenatchee Mom Blog in the Cascade Mountains, and outings to Leavenworth. For intermediate and advanced pianists. Organization: Icicle Creek Center for the Arts Cost: $550 for day camp, $950 for overnight camp; scholarships are available. Information: icicle.org, 548-6347

◆ Trash Orchestra II

Who: Kids entering grades 5-7 When: Aug 7-10, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will build their own homemade instruments out of provided materials. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

THEATER AND FILM Photo provided

The Young Filmmakers Camp begins July 30 at Icicle Creek Center for the Arts. The week-long camp is for kids ages 12-18.

◆ Trash Orchestra Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: June 19-22, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will build their own homemade instruments out of provided materials. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are

available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Young Pianists Camp

Who: Kids ages 13-18 When: Aug. 6-12 Where: Icicle Creek Center for the Arts campus, 7409 Icicle Road, Leavenworth Activities: A week-long session of individual lessons, practice, masterclasses and workshops, nature hikes

◆M erc Playhouse Summer Theater Intensive with director Ki Gottberg

Who: Kids eighth grade and above. Adults encouraged to attend. When: June 17-18 and June 24-25 Where: Merc Playhouse, Twisp Activities: Learn specific techniques in acting, stagecraft, improvisation, and movement. For actors, lawyers, teachers, leaders, or those that want to be. Organization: Merc Playhouse Cost: $275 Information: 997-7529, mercplayhouse.org

◆ Stop Action Film Production Camp Who: Kids entering grades 5-7

When: June 19-22, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn how to produce multiple stop-motion videos using Legos, mini-figures and video capture software. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $170 or $160 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Stage Kids: A Night at the Wax Museum

Who: Kids entering grades 3-8 When: June 19-29; Monday-Friday; 8:45 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Numerica Performing Arts Center, 123 N. Wenatchee Ave. Activities: Students will learn their part in the production and perform in two performances. Organization: Stage Kids Washington Cost: $360 Information: stagekidswa.org

◆ Stage Kids Winnie the Pooh Kids

Who: Kids entering grades K-4 When: Full-day camp, July 5-15, 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.; Half-day camp, July 10-15, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Numerica Performing Arts Center, 123 N. Wenatchee Ave. Activities: Students will learn their part in the production and perform. Organization: Stage Kids Washington Cost: Full-day camp, $320; half-day camp $160 Information: stagekidswa.org

Wenatchee Mom Blog ◆ Icicle Creek Acting Camp

Who: Kids ages 10-18 When: July 16-22 Where: Icicle Creek Center for the Arts campus, 7409 Icicle Road, Leavenworth Activities: A camp for aspiring young actors, directors and playwrights in a mountain setting. It is a week-long training ground where students come together to learn from a team of theater professionals, culminating in a performance by campers. Organization: Icicle Creek Center for the Arts Cost: $550 for day camp, $950 for overnight camp; scholarships are available. Information: icicle.org, 548-6347

◆ Icicle Creek Musical Theater Camp

Who: Kids ages 10-18 When: July 23-29 Where: Icicle Creek Center for the Arts campus, 7409 Icicle Road, Leavenworth Activities: A camp for aspiring musical theater performers in a mountain setting. It is a week-long training ground where students come together to learn from a team of theater professionals to become “triple-threats” of the stage, culminating in a performance by the campers. Organization: Icicle Creek Center for the Arts Cost: $550 for day camp, $950 for overnight camp; scholarships are available. Information: icicle.org, 548-6347

◆ Stage Teens Fame Jr.

Who: Kids ages 13-17 When: July 24-Aug. 17; performances Aug. 17-20 Where: Riverside Playhouse, 233 N. Wenatchee Ave. Activities: Auditions for the production-based camp will be held in late May. Students will learn their part in the production and perform in five performances. Organization: Stage Kids Washington Cost: $275 Information: stagekidswa.org

◆ Young Filmmakers Camp

Who: Kids ages 12-18 When: July 30-Aug. 5 Where: Icicle Creek Center for the Arts campus, 7409 Icicle Road, Leavenworth Activities: In just one week, students will complete their own documentary film, working with GoPros, drones, boom mics and lights. Film campers are in for a fun,hands-on introduction to the media arts. Start the week filming around the natural beauty of the Icicle Creek Campus, followed by two days of editing and post production. From concept to final cut, young filmmakers will experience each step of the creative process and experiment with new technologies. Organization: Icicle Creek Center for the Arts Cost: $550 for day camp, $950 for overnight camp; scholarships are available. Information: icicle.org, 548-6347

◆ T he Merc Playhouse Summer Musical Theater Camp

Who: Kids 8 and up When: Aug. 14-19 Where: The Merc Playhouse, Twisp Activities: Acting, singing, dancing. Polish your theater skills and learn a full show to be performed for public audiences at the end of the week. Organization: The Merc Playhouse

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Cost: $275 Information: 997-7529, mercplayhouse.org

READING

MORNINGS ONLY JUNE 26-30 • Mini-Quilt & Pillow Case

◆ Avra Kedavra Kamp

Who: Kids 8-12 years old When: July 10-14 for 8-10 year-old boys and girls; July 17-21 for 10-12 year-old girls; or July 24-28 for 10-12 year-old boys Where: Cascade School District’s Discovery School on the Leavenworth Fish Hatchery grounds Activities: Wacky literary arts camp that includes discussion about a top-secret featured novel yet to be announced. Organization: Avra Kedavra Kamp Cost: $175 for the week. Scholarships are available. Information: 548-0606 or bearrunantics.com

JULY 17-21 • Party PJ Bottoms July 24-28 • Beach/Overnight Bag August 7-11 • Flirty Skirt

ARTS AND CRAFTS ◆ Summer Art in the Park

Who: Kids 8-14 years When: Session 1, Tuesdays and Thursdays June 13-22; Session 2, Tuesdays and Thursdays, July 11-20; 5 to 7 p.m. Where: Eastmont Parks and Recreation meeting room Activities: Arts and crafts projects in the park. Materials included in cost. Organization: Eastmont Parks and Recreation Cost: $80 until June 9 for Session 1 or July 7 for Session 2, $85 after deadlines. Information: 884-8015 or eastmontparks.com

CAMP INCLUDES EASY-TO-USE SEWING MACHINES. TUITION $55 PER WEEK. CALL OR STOP BY FOR DETAILS AND REGISTRATION. SESSIONS FILL FAST!

1139 N. Princeton Wenatchee, WA 98801

663-5516

◆ Fabric Art I Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: June 26-29, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will use sewing machines, hand-sewing techniques and fabrics to design and make unique accessories and wearable art. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Fabric Art II Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 5-7 When: June 26-29, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn felting techniques, sewing machine stitchery, paint, embroidery, knitting and crocheting techniques to create one-of-a-kind wearables. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

Summer Youth Karate Day Camps Ages 3 to 16 Learn beginning levels of Ki Fighting Concepts Karate Program, including fun drills, fitness activities, focus, kickboxing and discipline training. Each child will test for a belt to conclude this camp!

Call to Register! 509-662-7983

Ki Fighting Concepts

KIDS KARATE Wenatchee’s Family Martial Arts Center

Corner of Kittitas and Columbia Street Continued on Page 16

Ki Fighting Concepts 5-4 Mom Blog 3x5.17 Kathy JW proof to rep—corr RD

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Wenatchee Mom Blog

◆ Chelan County PUD’s Adventure in Art

◆ WRAC Multi-sport camp

Who: Kids entering grades1-3 When: July 7 and July 21; 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Where: Rocky Reach Dam Activities: Artist April Richardson will lead students in creating a special art project related to the Summer Science program. Organization: Chelan County PUD Cost: Free Information: chelanpud.org, 663-7522

Who: Kids ages 5-14 When: June 13-16; June 19-22; June 26-29; July 3-6; July 17-20; July 24-27; July 31-Aug. 3; Aug. 7-10. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Monday through Thursday Where: Wenatchee Racquet & Athletic Club’s outdoor tennis facility, 1909 #2 Canyon Road Activities: Tennis instruction, outdoor fitness and games, swim instruction, snacks, indoor fitness and games, lunch break (brown bag or purchased from WRAC Deli), supervised gym time and supervised recreational swim time Organization: Wenatchee Racquet & Athletic Club Cost: $149 or $120 for WRAC members per week Information: 662-3544 or wrac.clubautomation.com

◆ Furniture Remake Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: July 10-13, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn how to sand, paint and bedazzle salvaged furniture. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Experimentations in Art Making Camp

Who: Kids ages 6-11 When: July 11-13 for kids 6-8; July 18-20 for kids 9-11 Where: Education Station at Twispworks campus Activities: Students will explore a variety of creative techniques while building skills as they experiment making different kinds of art. Organization: Confluence Gallery Cost: $150 Information: info@confluencegallery.com or 997-2787

◆ Homemade Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 3-5 When: July 24-27, Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn macramé, crossstitching and beadings. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Twisp River Poems Camp

◆ WRAC Fit Kidz

World photo/Mike Bonnicksen

Eastmont High School cheerleader Isis Sanchez, at left, helps lead Wildcat Cheerleading Camp participants as they put on a demonstration for their parents during the last day of camp last summer. The 2017 camp, open to kids ages 5 to 14, gets underway Aug. 14 at Eastmont Community Park Soccer Field. Cost: $85 or $70 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

◆ Petite Picassos Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 1-2 When: July 31-Aug. 3, Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will learn about the techniques of famous painters, create their own masterpieces and take walking excursions near the museum to observe and sketch the natural world. Half-day course is available. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Cost: $170 or $140 for members. Scholarships are available. Information: wenatcheevalleymuseum.org, 888-6240

Who: Kids ages 8-11 When: July 25-27, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Where: Education Station at Twispworks campus Activities: Students will explore local rivers as an inspiration for creating, shaping and reading poems. Camp will culminate in a reading open to family and friends. Organization: Confluence Gallery Cost: $150 Information: info@confluencegallery.com or 997-2787

◆ Patterns in Nature Camp

◆ Advanced Arts and Crafts Camp

◆ Creativity Camp

Who: Kids entering grades 5-7 When: July 31-Aug. 3, Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to noon Where: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Activities: Students will explore the Arts and Crafts movement that originated in late 19th century Britain. Study will include designs of William Morris and individual projects. Organization: Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center

Who: Kids ages 8-11 When: Aug. 1-3, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Where: Education Station at Twispworks campus Activities: Students will take nature walks and use field journaling to observe patterns and create drawings and paintings. Organization: Confluence Gallery Cost: $150 Information: info@confluencegallery.com or 997-2787 Who: Kids entering grades 1-3 When: Aug. 7-11 Where: Wenatchee River Institute, 347 Division St., Leavenworth Activities: Camp includes building forts, making music, painting, designing costumes and exploring nature. Organization: Wenatchee River Institute Cost: $200

Information: 548-0181 ext. 3, programs@ wenatcheeriverinstitute.org, wenatcheriverinstitute.org

Who: Kids 8-14 years When: June 13-Aug. 17. Noon to 12:45 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday Where: Wenatchee Racquet & Athletic Club’s indoor facility, 1913 Skyline Drive Activities: An active fitness session involving cardio exercise, strength training, agility and flexibility using fun games, drills and activities Organization: Wenatchee Racquet & Athletic Club Cost: $8 drop-in or $70 for 10 sessions on Jr. punch card. Free for WRAC members. Information: 662-3544 or wrac.clubautomation. com

◆ Skyhawks Basketball and Swim Camp

Who: Kids ages 6-12 When: July 17-21, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Pioneer Park ◆ Park wading pool program Activities: Basketball, camp games and supervised Who: Kids 6-14 swims at the city pool When: June 19-Aug. 11; 1 to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday Where: Pennsylvania, Washington and Methow parks Organization: Skyhawks in Wenatchee Cost: $145 Activities: Supervised wading pool, games, crafts and Information: skyhawks.com recreation equipment ◆ Skyhawks Mini-Hawk Camp Organization: Wenatchee Parks and Recreation Who: Kids ages 4-7 Cost: Free When: Session 1, June 13-16; Session 2, July 5-7; Information: wenatcheewa.gov Session 3, July 24-28; Session 4, Aug. 7-11; 9 a.m. to noon Where: Walla Walla Point Park ◆ Youth four-week boxing/kickboxing course Activities: Sessions include games and drills in Who: Kids ages 10-16 soccer, baseball and basketball When: Session 1, June 5, 12, 19, 26; Session 2, July Organization: Skyhawks 10, 17, 24, 31; Session 3, Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28; 6 to Cost: $109 for session 1; $89 for session 2; $125 6:45 p.m. for session 3 or 4 Where: KI Fighting Concepts, 4 Kittitas St., Suite 101, Information: skyhawks.com Wenatchee ◆ Eastmont Parks Skateboarding Camp Activities: Students learn beginning to intermediate level kickboxing drills and fundamentals. Students will Who: Kids ages 6-16 When: June 19-22, 6 to 8 p.m. learn mechanics and execution of each punch and Where: Kenroy Skate Park kick on focus mitts and heavy bags, learn the proper Activities: Austin Peuss and staff will lead beginner to way to wrap their hands. Organization: KI Fighting Concepts intermediate skateboarding instruction Cost: $49 plus tax includes one pair of hand wraps Organization: Eastmont Parks and Recreation Information: 662-7983 or kifightingconcepts.com Cost: $55 until June 9, $60 after Information: 884-8015 or www.eastmontparks.com

OTHER

SPORTS AND FITNESS

◆ YMCA Youth Gym Activities

Who: Children in grades K-8 as of May 2017 When: June 12-Aug. 26 Where: Wenatchee Valley YMCA, 217 Orondo Ave. Activities: Youth gym activities including climbing wall, sportwall, basketball and games all under the supervision of YMCA staff. Organization: Wenatchee Valley YMCA Cost: $3 per day or free for members Information: wenymca.org, 662-2109

◆ Skyhawks Multi-sport Camp

Who: Kids ages 6-12 When: June 26-30, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Walla Walla Point Park Activities: Sessions include games and drills in soccer, baseball and flag football. Organization: Skyhawks Cost: $145 Information: skyhawks.com

Wenatchee Mom Blog

BASEBALL ◆ Strikers Baseball Camp Who: Kids ages 6-12 years When: June 26-28; 9-11:30 a.m. Where: Eastmont Park 4Plex Activities: Baseball instruction led by Strikers Baseball team and coaches. Organization: Eastmont Parks and Recreation Cost: $55 by June 16, $60 after Information: 884-8015 or eastmontparks.com

◆ AppleSox Three-Day Pitching/Catching Camp World photo/Mike Bonnicksen

Christian Scott, 8, of Wenatchee, works on his hitting during last summer’s AppleSox Youth Camp on Monday at Wenatchee Valley College. This year’s three-day instructional clinic begins July 11.

◆ Wildcat Cheerleading Camp Who: Kids ages 5-14 When: Aug. 14-17; 9 to 10:30 a.m. Where: Eastmont Community Park Soccer Field Activities: EHS cheerleaders will instruct students in cheer techniques Organization: Eastmont Parks & Recreation Cost: $55 by Aug. 4 or $60 after Information: 884-8015 or eastmontparks.com

Thursday, May 4, 2017

◆ AppleSox Three-Day All Skills Camp

Who: Kids ages 6-18 years When: Aug. 1-3; 9 a.m.-noon Where: Paul Thomas Sr. Field, 1300 Fifth St., Wenatchee Activities: Clinic includes techniques to improve hitting, fielding, pitching and catching from AppleSox players and coaches. Organization: Wenatchee AppleSox Cost: $89 Information: applesoxcamps.com

◆ AppleSox All Skills Mini Camp

Who: Kids ages 6-18 years When: June 27-29; 9 a.m.-noon Where: Paul Thomas Sr. Field, 1300 Fifth St., Wenatchee Activities: Clinic includes technique on pitching and catching from AppleSox players and coaches. Organization: Wenatchee AppleSox Cost: $89 Information: applesoxcamps.com

Who: Kids ages 6-11 years When: June 12 and July 24, 9 a.m.-noon Where: Paul Thomas Sr. Field, 1300 Fifth St., Wenatchee Activities: Clinic includes techniques to improve hitting, fielding, pitching and catching from AppleSox players and coaches. Organization: Wenatchee AppleSox Cost: $39 Information: applesoxcamps.com

◆ AppleSox Three-Day Hitting Instruction Camp

TENNIS

Who: Kids ages 6-18 years When: July 11-13; 9 a.m.-noon Where: Paul Thomas Sr. Field, 1300 Fifth St., Wenatchee Activities: Clinic includes hitting techniques from AppleSox players and coaches. Organization: Wenatchee AppleSox Cost: $89 Information: applesoxcamps.com

◆ WRAC Junior Tennis Lessons

Who: Kids 5 and older When: Lessons held weekly June 13-Aug. 11 Where: Wenatchee Racquet & Athletic Club’s outdoor tennis facility, 1909 No. 2 Canyon Road Activities: Tennis instruction and fun match play events Organization: Wenatchee Racquet & Athletic Club Cost: $62 or $50 for WRAC members per week Information: 662-3544 or wrac.clubautomation.com

◆ Eastmont Parks Youth Tennis Lessons

Who: Kids ages 6-18 When: Session 1, June 20, 22, 27 and 28; Session 2, July 11, 13, 18 and 20; Session 3, July 25, 27 and Aug. 1, 3; 9 to 10:30 a.m. Where: Eastmont Park tennis courts Activities: Staff-led tennis lessons Organization: Wenatchee Parks and Recreation Cost: $60 per session. An additional $5 fee applies after June 9 for Session 1, June 30 for Session 2 or July 14 for Session 3. Information: 884-8015 or www.eastmontparks.com

◆ Wenatchee Parks Youth Tennis Lessons

◆ Eastmont Parks Tennis Camp

Who: Kids ages 6-18 When: June 12-16; 9 to 11 a.m. Where: Eastmont Park Tennis Courts Activities: Tennis instruction for beginner to intermediate skill level Organization: Eastmont Parks and Recreation Cost: $55 if registered by June 2, $60 after June 2 Information: 884-8015 or eastmontparks.com

Who: Kids ages 7 and older When: Session 1, July 10-14; Session 2, July 17-21. Each session includes five 1-hour group lessons. Where: Walla Walla Point Park Activities: Beginner and intermediate tennis lessons Organization: Wenatchee Parks and Recreation Cost: $35 per session or $31.50 for City of Wenatchee residents Information: wenatcheewa.gov Continued on Page 18

GREAT WINE. GREAT FOOD. GREAT FUN.

WENATCHEE FITNESS • 4 N. MISSION ST. • 509.393.5404

GOOD FOR 2 FREE WEEKS OF UNLIMITED JAZZERCISE DanceMixx • Strike • Strength45 • Fusion • Core • Interval Fusion • Strength60

Mon. Tue. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat.

8:30a 8:30a 8:30a 8:30a 8:30a 8:30a

9:45a 9:45a 9:45a 9:45a 9:45a

4:15p 4:15p 4:15p 4:15p

5:25p 5:25p 5:25p 5:25p It’s the largest gathering of wineries in the region, and the only professionally-judged wine event dedicated to wines produced in Chelan, Douglas, Grant and Okanogan counties. And this year it’s bigger than ever— more food, wine, beers, ciders, distilleries and eateries.

Saturday, August 26, 2017

6pm to 9pm

Town Toyota Center, Wenatchee

Tickets $45 each • A limited number of VIP tickets available for $75 each Available online at wenatcheewineandfood.com or at the door Presented by Foothills Magazine

oothills

WENATCHEE ❆ LEAVENWORTH ❆ CHELAN AND ALL OF NORTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON

Interested in having a booth at this event? E-mail us at info@wenatcheewineandfood.com

Thursday, May 4, 2017

SWIMMING ◆ Y MCA Private, Semi-Private and Small Group Lessons

Who: Children ages 3-12 When: Individually scheduled Where: Wenatchee Valley YMCA, 217 Orondo Ave. Activities: Six 30-minute swimming lessons conducted by trained and certified instructors Organization: Wenatchee Valley YMCA Cost: Private, $185 or $165 for members; semiprivate, $150 or $130 members; small group, $85 or $65. Information: wenymca.org, 662-2109

◆ Velocity Splash Swim Lessons

Who: Kids ages 4-19 When: May 22-Aug. 12 Where: Wenatchee City Pool and other venue TBA Activities: Summer competitive swimming and small group professionally taught swim lessons Organization: Velocity Swimming/USA Swimming Cost: Varies depending on assigned group Information: 884-8917 or info@velocity-swimming. com velocity-swimming.com

◆ Wenatchee Parks Public Swimming

Who: All ages When: June 10-Aug. 12, 1 to 2:45 p.m. and 3 to 4:45 p.m. Monday through Saturday Where: Wenatchee City Pool Activities: Lifeguarded public swimming Organization: Wenatchee Parks and Recreation Cost: $1 for children 3 and under, $3.25 for adults, $2.25 for seniors, $7.75 for families up to 5. $3 for adults, $2 for seniors or $7 for City of Wenatchee resident families. Information: wenatcheewa.gov

◆ Wenatchee Parks Youth Swimming Lessons Who: Kids ages 3 and up When: Four two-week sessions begin June 12. Each session includes 10 half-hour lessons. Where: Wenatchee City Pool Activities: All levels of swimming instruction Organization: Wenatchee Parks and Recreation Cost: $33 per session or $30 for City of Wenatchee residents Information: wenatcheewa.gov

◆ E astmont YMCA Aquatic Center Swimming Lessons

Who: Children ages 3-12 When: June 12-30, July 10-28, Aug. 7-25; Monday through Thursday Where: Eastmont YMCA Aquatic Center, 980 3rd St., East Wenatchee Activities: Twelve 30-minute swimming lessons conducted by trained and certified instructors in small groups of similarly skilled children Organization: Wenatchee YMCA Cost: $65 per session or $55 for members. Financial assistance available. Information: wenymca.org, 662-2109

◆ E astmont YMCA Aquatic Center Youth and Family Open Swims

Who: Children ages 6-15 When: June 12-Aug. 28; Monday-Saturday, 1 to 2 p.m.; Monday through Friday, 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. Where: Eastmont YMCA Aquatic Center, 980 3rd St., East Wenatchee Activities: Open recreation swim time under the supervision of certified lifeguards

Wenatchee Mom Blog Organization: Wenatchee YMCA Cost: $3 or free for members. Financial assistance available for membership. Information: wenymca.org, 662-2109

◆ Wenatchee Valley YMCA Youth Open Swims

Who: Children ages 6-15 When: June 12-Aug. 28; Monday through Friday; 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Valley YMCA, 217 Orondo Ave. Activities: Open recreation swim time under the supervision of certified lifeguards Organization: Wenatchee YMCA Cost: $3 or free for members. Financial assistance available for membership. Information: wenymca.org, 662-2109

◆ WRAC Summer Swim Lessons

Who: Kids ages 3 and up in levels I-III; 3 months to 3 years with adult for Bobbin Babies program; Private instruction available for all ages. When: Sessions held June 13-22; June 26-July 6; July 10-20; July 24-Aug. 3; Aug. 7-17. At 9:15, 9:45 and 10:15 a.m. Monday through Thursday; 5:45 and 6:15 p.m. Monday and Wednesday; and 5:45 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday. Bobbin Babies program held Tuesday and Thursday at 6:15 p.m. Where: Wenatchee Racquet & Athletic Club’s outdoor pool, 1909 No. 2 Canyon Road Activities: Swimming and water safety program that features progressive levels of learn-to-swim American Red Cross instruction Organization: Wenatchee Racquet & Athletic Club Cost: Morning classes are $65 or $56 for WRAC members; evening classes are $34 or $28 for WRAC members. Information: 662-3544 or wrac.clubautomation.com

◆ WRAC Summer Swim Team

Who: Kids 18 and under that are able to swim 25 yards of two different strokes When: June 13-July 29; Monday through Thursday. Kids 8 and younger, 8:30 a.m.; ages 9-11, 7:45 a.m.; ages 12-18, 7 a.m. Where: Wenatchee Racquet & Athletic Club’s outdoor pool, 1909 No. 2 Canyon Road Activities: Stroke development and skills practice in preparation for local swim meets Organization: Wenatchee Racquet & Athletic Club Cost: $190 or $159 for WRAC members. Additional discount is offered for swimmers who sign a “Meet Crew” commitment. Information: 662-3544 or wrac.clubautomation.com

◆ Eastmont YMCA Aquatic Center Summer Swim Club

Who: Children ages 6-18 When: June 19- July 21; Monday through Friday; 9 to 11 a.m. Where: Eastmont YMCA Aquatic Center, 980 3rd St., East Wenatchee Activities: Swim stroke practice and coaching with swim challenges, water games and outdoor cardio/ agility Cost: $170 per session or $150 for members. Financial assistance available. Information: wenymca.org, 662-2109

KARATE ◆ Youth Karate Day Camp

Who: Kids ages 3-4 When: Session 1, June 13-15; Session 2, July 11-13;

World photo/Mike Bonnicksen

British soccer coach Sam Treagus steals the ball away from a participant last summer as they play a game designed to teach the kids dribbling skills. The 2017 version of the camp begins June 26 at Eastmont Community Park. Session 3, Aug. 1-3; 10 to 11:30 a.m. Where: KI Fighting Concepts, 4 Kittitas St., Suite 101, Wenatchee Activities: Foundational introduction course teaches students beginning levels of karate program including coordination drills, physical fitness activities, focus and discipline training and age-appropriate selfdefense techniques. Students will test for white belt to conclude camp. Organization: KI Fighting Concepts Cost: $125 plus tax, includes black karate uniform Information: 662-7983 or kifightingconcepts.com

◆ Youth Karate Day Camp II Who: Kids ages 5-7 When: Session 1, June 20-22; Session 2, July 18-20; Session 3, Aug. 8-10; 10 a.m.-noon Where: KI Fighting Concepts, 4 Kittitas St., Suite 101, Wenatchee Activities: Foundational introduction course teaches students beginning levels of karate program including coordination drills, physical fitness activities, focus and discipline training and age-appropriate selfdefense techniques. Students will test for white belt to conclude camp. Organization: KI Fighting Concepts Cost: $125 plus tax, includes black karate uniform Information: 662-7983 or kifightingconcepts.com

◆ Youth Karate Day Camp III Who: Kids ages 8-13 When: Session 1, June 27-29; Session 2, July 18-20; Session 3, Aug. 15-17; 10 a.m. to noon Where: KI Fighting Concepts, 4 Kittitas St., Suite 101, Wenatchee Activities: Foundational introduction course teaches students beginning levels of karate program including coordination drills, physical fitness activities, focus and discipline training and age-appropriate selfdefense techniques. Students will test for white belt to conclude camp. Organization: KI Fighting Concepts Cost: $125 plus tax, includes black karate uniform Information: 662-7983 or kifightingconcepts.com

GOLF ◆ Skyhawks Beginning Golf Camp

Who: Kids ages 5-11 When: Session 1, June 19-22; Session 2, July 31-Aug.3; 9 a.m. to noon Where: Washington Park Activities: Introduces new golfers to the sport using the Starting New At Golf (SNAG). SNAG utilizes a set of equipment designed for beginning golfers, including oversized plastic club heads and “mini tennis balls” to help build confidence. Organization: Skyhawks Cost: $109 Information: skyhawks.com

◆ Eastmont Golf Instructional Camp

Who: Kids ages 8-18 When: July 11-13; 6 to 8 p.m. Where: Highlander Golf Course Activities: Mark Babst, assistant professional, will lead golf instruction. Organization: Eastmont Parks and Recreation Cost: $55 until June 23, $60 after June 23 Information: 884-8015 or eastmontparks.com

BASKETBALL ◆ The Next Great Wildcat Basketball Camp

Who: Boys entering grades 2-8 When: June 12-15; 10 a.m. to noon Where: Eastmont High School gyms Activities: Basketball instruction taught by Eastmont High School coaches and players. Organization: Eastmont Parks and Recreation Cost: $55 by June 2, $60 after June 2 Information: 884-8015 or eastmontparks.com

◆ Wildcat Basketball Camp

Who: Girls entering grades 2-8 When: June 12-15; 10 a.m. to noon Where: Sterling Intermediate School gyms Activities: Basketball instruction taught by Eastmont High School coaches and players. Organization: Eastmont Parks and Recreation Cost: $55 by June 2, $60 after June 2 Information: 884-8015 or eastmontparks.com

Wenatchee Mom Blog ◆ Skyhawks Half-Day Basketball Camp

Who: Kids ages 6-12 When: July 17-21, 9 a.m.-noon Where: Pioneer Park Activities: Basketball games and drills focusing on respect, teamwork and responsibility. Organization: Skyhawks Cost: $125 Information: skyhawks.com

◆ Skyhawks Basketball Camp

Who: Kids ages 6-12 When: Session 1, June 13-16; Session 2, Aug. 14-18; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Foothills Middle School Activities: Basketball games and drills focusing on respect, teamwork and responsibility. Organization: Skyhawks Cost: $125 for session 1; $145 for session 2 Information: skyhawks.com

SOCCER ◆ British Soccer Camp

Who: Kids ages 3-16 When: June 26-30 Where: Eastmont Community Park Activities: International soccer coaching with a cultural, educational and character building twist. Cost: Varies, dependent on age Information: 884-8015 or challengersports.com

◆ Skyhawks Tiny-Hawk Soccer Camp

Who: Kids ages 3 and 4 When: Session 1, July 5-7; Session 2, July 10-14; Session 3, July 24-28; Session 4, Aug. 7-11; 8 to 8:45 a.m. Where: Walla Walla Point Park Activities: Children will learn balance, body movement, hand/eye coordination and skill development through a series of sport-specific games tailored to their attention spans. Organization: Skyhawks Cost: $35 for Session 1; $59 for Session 2, 3 or 4 Information: skyhawks.com

◆ Skyhawks Soccer Camp

Who: Kids ages 6-12 When: July 10-14; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Walla Walla Point Park Activities: Camp focuses on soccer fundamentals such as dribbling, passing, shooting and ball control.

2017 SEASON

MARCH 1 TO NOV. 10 Visitor Center hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Look a salmon in the eye

Thursday, May 4, 2017 19

Organization: Skyhawks Cost: $145 Information: skyhawks.com

◆ TetraBrazil Soccer Camp Who: Kids ages 8-16 When: July 10-14 Where: Eastmont Community Park Activities: Soccer coaching with the authentic flair, passion and creativity of Brazilian soccer. Cost: Varies, dependent on age Information: 884-8015 or challengersports.com

FOOTBALL ◆ WFC Future Champs Camp Who: Kids currently in grades 2-8 When: July 10-13, 5 to 6:30 p.m. Where: Wenatchee High School Apple Bowl Activities: Football fundamentals and flag football games Organization: Wenatchee Football Club Cost: $25 Information: wenatcheefootballclub.org, dave@ wenatcheefootballclub.org

◆ Skyhawks Flag Football Camp Who: Kids ages 6-12 When: Aug. 7-11; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Walla Walla Point Park Activities: Campers will learn skills on both sides of the ball including the core components of passing, catching, and de-flagging or defensive positioning. Lessons presented in a fun and positive environment. Organization: Skyhawks Cost: $145 Information: skyhawks.com

◆ Rams Football Camp Who: Kids ages 5-14 When: Aug. 14-17; 9 to 10:30 a.m. Where: Eastmont Community Park Soccer Field Activities: Rams football team will instruct football games and drills. Organization: Eastmont Parks and Recreation Cost: $55 by Aug. 4; $60 after Information: 884-8015 or eastmontparks.com

SERIOUS MUSIC. SERIOUS FUN.

SUMMER STRING ENSEMBLE JUNE 26-30, 9 AM to 12 PM

WENATCHEE NAZARENE CHURCH, 1011 S. MILLER ST. • $200 ONLINE REGISTRATION @ WWW.COLUMBIARIVERMC.COM JOIN US FOR A WEEK LONG STRINGS DAY CAMP! LED BY CELLIST MATTHEW RYAN-KELZENBERG, AND VIOLINIST MICHELLE VAUGHN (CONCERTMASTER OF THE WENATCHEE VALLEY SYMPHONY). WE WILL REHEARSE AND PERFORM A PROGRAM FOR INTERMEDIATE STRING PLAYERS. (AT LEAST ONE YEAR OF PLAYING EXPERIENCE NECESSARY)

SCHOOL OF ROCK CAMP JULY 31ST - AUG. 4TH DO YOU WANT TO LEARN HOW TO PLAY LIKE YOUR FAVORITE ROCKSTAR?! AT OUR CAMP YOU CAN CHOOSE BETWEEN ELECTRIC GUITAR, BASS, KEYBOARDS, VOCALS OR DRUMS & YOU WILL BE ROCKIN’ THE VERY FIRST DAY! BUT HURRY, THERE ARE LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE! THE CAMP IS $160 WITH A ONE TIME $10 REGISTRATION FEE DUE AT TIME OF REGISTRATION TO HOLD YOUR SPOT. OPEN FOR AGES 7-16. FOR MORE INFO PLEASE CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE. (509)664-0412 • WWW.COLUMBIARIVERMC.COM 1011 S. MILLER ST.

May 11-12 River Ramble, 5-8 p.m.

July 7, July 21

Art in the Park, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Seasonal park grounds hours: Mar. 1-May 29 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

May 13

Oct. 15

Fall Roundup, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.

Sept. 5-Nov. 10 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Kids Fest, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

July 5-7, *Summer Science July 19-21 Adventure Week, 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Discover the park and playground

*Registration required

May 30-Sept. 4 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Book a birthday party, wedding, or special event (509) 663-7522

Wander through the museum

20 Thursday, May 4, 2017

Wenatchee Mom Blog

Blog Feature

have an 8-year-old son who is a wonderful little human. He is caring and compassionate, helpful and kind, energetic and social, and these are just a few of his great traits. I’ve always loved being a “boy mom” and all that it entails, but I never considered what it would mean to be a mother to a girl. Now here I sit, 18 weeks pregnant with a baby girl, pondering what life will be Wenatchee like with her. I watched a Mom Blog video clip this morning of Contributor a little girl comparing girls clothing to boys clothing. She was so frustrated because she felt the boys clothing was promoting free thinking and adventure, and the girls clothing was promoting a beautiful physical image. She said “It’s disappointing because everyone thinks that girls should just be pretty, and boys should just be adventurous.” Whoa, she nailed it. A girl at approximately 10 years of age has just interpreted, through clothing, one of our country’s greatest issues: gender inequality. Why do boys HAVE to be adventurous? What if they want instead to be a stayat-home dad or a fashion designer? Why do girls HAVE to pretty? What if they don’t care about their appearance? What if a girl wants to be a CEO, or a mechanic, or a FREE THINKER who does not conform to society’s expectations?

Whitney Woodward

I continued to explore the internet and found a report recently published by the World Economic Forum outlining the gender inequality issue in America. I was shocked to learn that the US ranks 26th out of 144 countries in economic gender equality, and has been steadily declining over the past decade, when we used to rank 3rd. (We’re ranked 45th in overall gender equality.) Why am I so shocked? I’ve always known that we have a serious issue in this arena. I guess I just didn’t realize how bad it actually is. When I look at social media, it is so full of advertisements for beauty products and clothing companies who are targeting women in a way that makes us feel that in order to be successful, socially or professionally, we must be a certain size, dress a certain way and look beautiful all the time. I see women posting provocative photos dressed scantily bragging about their bodies while their young daughters follow suit, teaching them that their worth is in their physical appearance and

Growing a girl not in their brains. It’s no wonder that young girls feel a crushing pressure to fit society’s mold of beautiful. So today, as I think about the daughter that I will soon have, I think about how I will empower her to rise above the pressures she will face, and instill in her a sense of self worth that goes far beyond her physical appearance while still making her feel beautiful. How will my husband and I define her beauty? How will we define her worth? How do we make damn sure to separate the two? How will my words and actions reflect on her? So often, I hear people greet young girls and immediately compliment their appearance. “You look so pretty in that dress” or “Your hair looks so cute today.” I’m guilty of these types of compliments myself, and I plan to improve that each day by complimenting girls and women alike on their physical abilities, their successes, their inner beauty and their intelligence. I want my daughter and all the women in my life to know that I appreciate them for their true self, and not their reflection. This is already the way I feel, but I know that I can do a much better job of conveying this through self-reflection and practice.

Whitney Woodward’s friend Holly Fiske and her daughter Nevada.

Next time I see my dear 5-year-old friend Harper, I plan to tell her that I love the way her whole face lights up when she smiles, and that I think it’s amazing how fast she can run… if she will slow down for a moment to let me tell her. When I swim with my favorite 3-year-old fish named Millie this summer, I will tell her how brave she is for swimming out into the middle of the (very calm) river while I swim next to her. Next time I see my friend Roselle, I plan to tell her that I am amazed by her ability to run her business and her home like a boss, and that because of her amazing friendship she makes me feel like a million bucks. That woman is raising her two daughters the way that I hope to raise mine. I’m excited to have a daughter. I want to raise her up to be a passionate wildling who is intelligent and fierce. A force to be reckoned with, a woman full of love and brains and wit and humor who is not afraid to chase her dreams and will let nothing and no one stand in her way. I want my daughter to know that she is capable of anything that she puts her mind to. If she wants to be an astronaut I will encourage her to be the best damn astronaut she can be. If she wants to be a hair stylist I will support her 100 percent in following her passion, and I’m sure I’ll end up with a few terrible haircuts in the process. But what I want for her most of all is to feel worthy of love and equality

Fiske and her daughter Nevada.

and kindness, and to be able to give these things in return. I want her to build other women up, to know that to be a woman is a very special thing, and that she is worth FAR more than the image that stares back at her in the mirror. Whitney was born and raised in Leavenworth where she lived for 20 years. She currently lives in East Wenatchee with her husband Ben, 8-year-old son Tyson and their chubby, lovable rottweiler Mila.

She’s currently working on building a daughter, who is expected this summer. Whitney works in Leavenworth as a full time EMT and volunteers for the Chelan County Search and Rescue and High Angle Rope Rescue Team (HARRT). Her family and friends are her true passion in life, but she also treasures wine and a good adventure. She especially loves to mountain bike and snowboard, but finds happiness outdoors in nearly any form.

Wenatchee Mom Blog

Thursday, May 4, 2017 21

Blog Feature

A picture’s worth

’ve read several quotes reminding parents that little eyes are watching our every move but it wasn’t until I watched my 2-year-old daughter pick up my camera and attempt to hold it up to her little face that I realized just how much truth there was to those statements. More often than not, when I see her pick it up my first instinct is to quickly Elizabeth remove it from her tiny, clumsy hands. I know we Jones would both be devastated Wenatchee if she broke it and frankly Mom Blog neither one of us can afford Contributor to replace it. I’ve always been infatuated with pictures even when I was young. For my 12th birthday my mom bought me a 35mm Minolta and for subsequent birthdays after that, I’d always request rolls of film. I was lucky that my mom graciously paid to develop all the pictures that I was taking. She even continued to pay for doubles long after it was apparent that the only thing I was taking pictures of was my friends and all the fun things we did. Over the years, my mom bought me several cameras. She bought me my first digital camera and I can still remember my excitement when I read that it took pictures at a whopping 8 megapixels. The ability to take pictures, view them on the display screen, delete them on the spot and take more was a game changer. I think that’s when I really began to love cameras and the precious mementos they created. After my mom died in 2009, I decided that I was going to take my entire tax return and buy a “real” camera. At that point, it was the most expensive

purchase I had ever made in my life and it didn’t disappoint. I spent the next several days, weeks and months outside, taking pictures of anything and everything. I had cameras all my life, but there was something special about the DSLR and all that it could do. It allowed me to be creative and I was passionate about that. I took a college photography class to brush up my skills and before I knew it people were occasionally asking me if I would take pictures for them. At the time, I was excited and felt a sense of validation but over time, I realized that taking pictures as a method to make money was sucking my passion right out of me. It got to a point where I stopped using my camera all together. Something that I had loved so much and for so long had become something I dreaded. Even today with two beautiful babies as my every day subjects, taking pictures doesn’t quite have the same effect that it once did. So today when I watched my daughter grab my camera for the umpteenth time, instead of taking it away from her, I walked her to the front door, wrapped the strap around her neck and followed her outside. I showed her which button to press and off she went. She walked around the front yard snapping away. I think she just liked the sound of the shutter opening and closing, or maybe it was that she was doing what she sees her momma do so often.

Either way, watching her walk around the yard, imagining what images she might be capturing, made me feel excited again, excited like I was so many years ago when developing my rolls of film felt like Christmas morning. For the first time in a really long time, I couldn’t wait to upload the pictures and see what treasures she had captured. 2-year-old perspective is beautiful. That image up above that my daughter took is now hands-down my favorite of all time. Elizabeth is a Washington native who moved to Wenatchee in 2011. She is happily married to her best friend Andy and together they have two young children. She is a stay-at-home mom

who wouldn’t want to spend her days any other way. She is a self-proclaimed “over-sharer” who enjoys documenting her family’s day-to-day life on Instagram, often joking that her children are the most photographed kids in history. Her husband and her children are the center of her universe and if she had any free time, she’d choose to spend it with them. Her family is everything, but she manages to squeeze in some time for football too. She is a lifelong Seahawks fan whose favorite time of year has always been football season and when she’s not cheering on her Hawks, she enjoys watching her husband play for the Wenatchee Valley Rams.

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22 Thursday, May 4, 2017

Wenatchee Mom Blog

Blog Feature

Staying home subject, and I could probably direct you to a real live person or place to get information rather easily.

opefully someone out there can relate to this…coming to terms with being a stay-at-home mom has been harder than I thought it would be. It’s been several years since I left my job, but I’m still adjusting. There’s something I find infuriating (I am my own worst critic) about my tendency to send my mind and aspirations in a million different directions while life has me so firmly situated in another. Heart, get settled, why don’t you?!

And finally, I have been learning how to rest. Busy should be my middle name; my adrenal gland is definitely overworked. Stress and anxiety are crouching just outside my door pretty often. It can wear on me, so I have to give her a rest. Being at home means that sometimes, I get to sit on the sofa and put my feet up, close my eyes, and just breathe. I feel stronger after I’ve allowed myself a “pause.”

Stephanie Ross

My mom passed me a book from the 1970’s called “Home: Where Life Makes Up Its Mind” by Charles R. Swindoll. The little diddy on Amazon says: “…home — that unique place where character is developed and patterns for life are determined…” (It’s a good read.) Home really shapes us. There are ups and downs, good and bad. Home can be something we wish to leave or eagerly return to. The way that I was shaped by my childhood home sent me out the door with a passion for learning and serving. Those experiences are now shaping the way that I mother. And I know that Home will send them out on their way, soon (and me too!).

Wenatchee Mom Blog Contributor

I like motherhood. I do. I always hoped to be married with children, so I’m very thankful. But it’s the STAYING AT HOME part that’s hard for me to actually do. Simple, nuclear family togetherness can be really nice. But the commotion and energy of crowds still calls to me. Once upon a time, I spent a lot of time out and abroad. My heart remembers those places and faces, longs for them, and even wonders sometimes if those life experiences will ever amount to much in the next generation, when we are settled into the simplicity of a family farm, as we hope to do. I am glad we aren’t doing this transition cold turkey, because it’s definitely been a process for me. I went from full-time working mom, to half-time plus volunteering, to random sub jobs and no volunteering, to just staying at home with the kids. The demands of growing a family shift so often and have become so life-encompassing that instead of making commitments, I’ve been letting them go. Now it feels normal (most of the time) to spend the day in and around our house, in the company of three young girls. Will people think I’ve become reclusive? This natural guilt response would normally compel me to push harder and do even more, but I am learning to stand up (against myself) for my family and our needs. Right now, we are in the season of potty training and regular naps. Staying home just needs to happen. So I’m making friends with Home. That’s why they call it “stay-at-home mom” anyway, right? My kids, at their young age and stage, thrive on Home’s consistency. My husband loves knowing I’m there, too. It also saves a lot of money: gas, babysitting, shopping… I am finding things to do. Learning why we chose for me to quit my job and stay here

in the first place has certainly been a journey. At home, I can deepen skills; preparing myself for a few aspects of our country homesteading future: Sew: I have always admired people who sew. I want this skill, but it takes time to practice, which I never had! I bought a sewing machine and have struggled through simple things like making pillow cases and sewing a hem. To be honest, I recently put it back in the box. In the evenings, I like to imagine that I’m in “Little House on the Prairie” as I sit in my rocking chair and sew by hand. My daughter has gotten interested, and she’s having fun with a real needle and thread! Write: For this blog, of course; but also actual correspondence! Is there anything more wonderful than discovering a plump, hand-written letter in the mailbox from a good friend? One day, I will sit at an eastern-facing window with a cup of coffee, and watch the sun come up over the farm as I write a letter to a friend. My stationary and pens will be stowed in a quaint, antique fold-down desk that my husband will surprise me with on some birthday or Christmas. But I cannot wait, so I write letters now. Silly anecdotes, words of encouragement, and raw life. I have been known to insert a self-addressed, stamped envelope in with my letter so my recipient knows I mean for her to write back! Prepare Food: Different than just cooking, baking, and throwing stuff together – which I

A frog rises up in my throat as I see them growing before my very eyes. Even though I see them every day, it still catches me by surprise. Just in the period it took me to prepare this post, things have changed. My toddler isn’t napping hardly at all anymore. Teeth #7 and #8 are starting to emerge from my wee little one’s gums. She’s saying “Hi Dadada” when he calls home on his lunch break. My oldest will be taller than me sooner than I’d like to believe. We’re going to have to make some videos so we can freeze time before it runs away on us. I don’t ever want to forget this stage…

still do often enough – nourishment takes time and planning. However, it (usually) feels better on our tongues, as well as in our tummies; and the energy we get from this food seems to last longer somehow. I have started reading more cook books, taking classes, learning about different cuts of meat, new flavors, etc. I chop, freeze, roast, dehydrate and can. I soak beans, nuts and grains. There are so many farmers and foodies in our area! Just ask a question about any particular

…For, there will come a time when they are a bit older, and we can get out and involve ourselves in more community projects and new activities… but like most of life, it probably won’t end up the way I imagined it. Truth is, being a stay-at-home mom doesn’t have to be about putting my life on hold. I have a new hope about it. I sincerely hope that cultivating myself within the home (as well as my children) during this season of life will be a positive influence for my family that I can look back on with thankfulness. I don’t want it to be something I just muscle through.

Wenatchee Mom Blog

Thursday, May 4, 2017 23

Blog Feature

Life transitions

ho else has had a difficult time transitioning out of the baby bearing stage of life? I am having a really hard time with the thought of never being pregnant, feeling a baby kick inside of me, going into labor, and the excitement and euphoric release of the love hormones that come when you hold your newborn for the first time.

Christine Potter Wenatchee Mom Blog Contributor

It’s so interesting. I never expected for this to feel so, so sad. Not sad in a way that I feel like I need to have more babies, but almost a heartbroken, mourning feeling that this stage of my life is over. Ever since I can remember, all I wanted to be was a mom. I am so thankful that I have been given the opportunity to bring three healthy boys into this world with a husband who I love. It is a blessing I do not take for granted. I loved being pregnant. I loved that

stage of life, and savored it all. I have always been so interested/amazed at the birthing process. Newborns. Everything involved with being pregnant and having a baby. I can’t get enough of the newborn squishy-ness. During my newborn photo shoots, you can often find me taking a moment to cuddle up with that fresh newborn in the corner of my neck, shooshing in its little ear, smelling it’s fresh skin, and often times, stealing a kiss from the chubby little cheeks or top of its head. Newborns are my favorite. Hence, my love for birth photography. How amazing to be able to watch the miracle of birth and creation of love over and over. It is something beyond words to be able to witness and capture It is so wonderful to be involved in such a special way with something that I love so much. And in some ways, it helps me during this transitioning stage of my life. At the time I gave birth, I hadn’t yet started birth photography…or really photography in general. One thing I would go back and do over is to have the emotions of that

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day documented through photography. I wish I could go back and fill in the gaps of my memory…and be able to physically see the images that are burned in my mind, and also the ones that I missed in the chaos…my husband and midwife encouraging me through the last bit of labor after my epidural wore off, having my new babe on my chest with his arm holding onto my neck and feeling his little lips against my cheek as he whimpered and cried, my family in the waiting room anticipating the great news. Ohhhh. Those are my favorite memories. I just wish I could SEE them. So, mamas. Tell me. Have any of you had these same struggles? Or was it a stage of life that you happily and willingly transitioned from? A little

of both? None at all? Am I crazy? Or am I just a normal mom, over-thinking and over-feeling all of these mom emotions? Christine has lived in the Wenatchee Valley since she was 6. She is a wife to a handsome bearded husband, and a mom to three boys. Christine is also a photographer specializing in labor/birth, families, seniors, and catching real life emotion in a lifestyle approach. (She is easily bribed with Diet Coke.)

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