Free! Please take one
A Magazine for Yakima Valley Parents playdatemagazine.com
the
12 Crafts of Huge Christmas Holiday Calendar Home for the holidays: a soldier’s reunion CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS december | january 2013 • VOL. 6, ISSUE 6 p l ay dat e m a g a z i n e . c o m
Reesha’s Eats! A s p e c i a l i n t e r e s t p u b li c at io n o f t h e ya k i m a h e r a l d – R e p u b li c
Autism Support • Theatre • toy Trains Bazaars & Craft Fairs • Christmas Pops
The world keeps getting smaller. Leave a small footprint.
STEWART SUBARU 506 Fruitvale Blvd. • 248-5494 www.stewartsubaru.com
48.260073.PD/N
PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
48.243121.PD.N
3
ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT? One of the most important responsibilities you have as a parent is to make sure that your child has what he/she needs. That goes beyond love, food and clothing. Approximately ten percent of all children have some special need that requires special attention. If you think your child (birth thru 21) has difficulty seeing or hearing, has communication or diagnosed health problems, has difficulty learning or playing, help is as close as your Childfind Coordinator at your local school district. Parents with children in private schools and/or parochial schools, or anyone knowing of a child who is highly mobile, homeless or migrant should contact their closest school district in which they reside for Childfind information. Childfind is a process of locating children who will need special services in order to experience success in school. Schools and community agencies work together to provide these services. If you know a child that may need help, call your local Childfind Coordinator today. Childfind is free to parents.
ESTA PREOCUPADO POR EL DESARROLLO DE SU HIJO/HIJA? Si usted esta preocupado por el desarrollo de su hijo/hija, queremos informarle que exista ayuda. Una de sus responsabilidades como padre de familia es dseguarse que su hijo/hija tiene todo lo que necesita; la responsabilidad va mas alla del amor, la comida y el vestir. Aproximadamente el diez por ciento de nuestros ninos tiene una necesidad especificia que requirere atencion especial. Si usted piensa que su hijo/hija (entre las edades de recien nacido hasta el fin de los 21 anos de edad) tiene dificultad de ver o escuchar, tiene difficultades de communicacion o problemas de salud, tiene dificultad de aprendar o jugar, comuniquese con el coordinador de “Childfind” de su distrito escolar. Los padres con ninos que estan en escuelas privades o en escuelas parroquiales, o cualquier persona al saber de un nino que es altamente movil, sin hogar, or migrante debe de comunicarse con el distrito escolar mas cercano en que vive para informacion sobre “Childfind”. “ Childfind” es un proceso cuyo objective es localizer los estudiantes que podrian necesitar servicios especiales para que pue`dan tener una experiencia exitosa en la escuela. Las ecuelas y otras agencies trabajan juntas proveer esos servicios. Si usted conoce un nino(a) que necesite ayuda, favor de comunicarse inmediatamente con el coordinador de “Childfind” de su localidad. “Childfind” es gratis para los padres.
48.260157.PD.N
4
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
w
a note from Scott
WE’VE ALL EXPERIENCED life changes, some so big that when you stop for a moment to breathe and reflect you’re left marveling at how quickly various paths have taken us in unexpected directions over the course of months or years. Every New Year we have a chance to stop and examine what has transpired in the previous 12 months. The day also marks a transition for us to regroup, refocus and refresh – however real or imagined this process actually is. Realizing these big moments may not always be so simple or straightforward at first, as columnist Lacy Heinz reveals in this issue. Sometimes it takes a relatively trivial moment to become an opportunity for teaching and connecting with our kids. Having kids requires parents to adapt in so many ways. Job requirements or a medical diagnosis will alter family schedules and expectations. We have two stories that highlight such life-changing moments in this edition. You’ll read about how one local military family dealt with dad being away from home. You will also read a mother’s reflection on raising her son who has severe food allergies.
MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS…
Lacy Heinz is a Mom with a capital M who loves to read, root for the Oregon Ducks, and do a little legal work when time and preschoolers permit.
PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
playdateyakima
Visit our website playdatemagazine.com PHOTO BY ROBIN SALTS BECKETT
We do offer a chance for you to live in the moment of the season, though, with our feature, “The 12 Crafts of Christmas.” It’s a visual treat. You will also find our packed holiday and daily calendars (and we haven’t forgotten about January either!), the latest bit of medical wisdom from Dr. Pommer in “Second Opinion,” and much more.
Don’t be shy. Please send us questions, comments or suggestions to sklepach@yakimaherald.com, and be sure to friend us on Facebook. I wish you and your family the very best of what’s left of 2012, and a wonderful New Year.
—Scott Best known as a former radio host, Reesha Cosby enjoys her new spicy role as “Mom Most Likely to Put Cumin in Willow’s Sweet Potatoes.”
When she's not chasing two very busy little boys, Aubrey Does loves drinking coffee and blogging deals. You can read more of her frugal adventures at frugalyakimamom.com.
David Pommer, MD is a family physician with Selah Family Medicine. He is a graduate of Whitworth University and the University of Washington School of Medicine.
Suzanne Voldman is the mother of two boys. She is is a food allergy advocate and runs a local non-profit group that promotes cloth diapering.
5
contents
december | january
2013
SECOND OPINION Tips for maximizing a visit with your personal health care provider.
8
Niche Products Manager Playdate Coordinator Design and Layout Illustration
Robin Salts Beckett Scott Klepach Jr. Sarah J. Button David Olden
Playdate 114 N. Fourth St. Yakima, WA 98901-2707 509-577-7731 • www.playdatemagazine.com For advertising opportunities, call (509) 577-7743 or e-mail rbeckett@yakimaherald.com
NEW YEAR, NEW PERSPECTIVE ON PARENTING 10 Lacy Heinz on how facing the new year can be met with a sense of renewal — and new parenting lessons. FAMILY FARE 12 Reesha Cosby shares her easy recipe for Black Bean Gorgonzola Bruschetta. It’s sure to be a hit for the entire family! MINUTE FOR MOM 12 Kick back and relax those feet ... Pedi-spin style. Plus our favorite magazine and latte stop. FRUGAL TIP 14 Aubrey Does of Frugal Yakima Mom provides tips for saving money during the Christmas season, and how to help start off the New Year right. PHOTO BY JENNIFER DAGDAGAN
Volume 6, Issue 6 December / January 2013
Publisher Sharon J. Prill VP of Sales James E. Stickel December / January 2013 Published every other month by Yakima Herald-Republic. 114 N. Fourth St., Yakima WA 98901-2707 www.playdatemagazine.com © 2012 Yakima Herald-Republic. All rights reserved. The magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork; they will not be returned.
HOLIDAY GUIDE 14 There’s plenty to do around Christmastime other than shop. Explore those events here. COPING WITH FOOD ALLERGIES 18 How one mom faced the news of having a son with life-threatening food allergies, and what she’s doing about it. THE 12 CRAFTS OF CHRISTMAS 22 You know the song, now check out these Holiday crafts to give you and your family plenty of hands-on fun. HOMEWARD BOUND: A MILITARY FAMILY REUNION 26 Being away from family is tough, especially during the holidays. Read about one military family who made it through the season.
Note from Scott 5 Minute for mom 12 Odds & Ends 14 Storytime 30 Calendar 32 Gotcha! 42 6
IN EVERY ISSUE
ON THE COVER
Jax Baer, 4, cuddles with dog Libby to get warm and cozy for the Christmas season. COVER PHOTO BY JENNIFER DAGDAGAN.
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
TERI - PROOF/EMAIL - PLAYDATE - FULL COLOR.PDF 1119 SPR 48.260158.FRI.1130.PD.QRTR.LJC
Toy Train Christmas (509) 453-8248
NORTHERN PACIFIC RAILWAY MUSEUM 10 Asotin Ave., Toppenish
www.yvhsc.org
Saturday: 10 am-4 pm each day
Protect your children’s hearing and your own.
Nov. 24 Dec. 1 - 8 - 15 Sunday: 10 am-4 pm each day Dec. 2 - 9 - 16
-Keep the volume down on TVs & iPods. A good guide is half volume. -Limit listening time. Give your hearing “quiet breaks.” -Model good listening habits for your children. Avoid interruption. Use good eye contact. Focus your attention.
Includes: Caboose Ride to see Santa, Candy Canes from Santa; Hot Chocolate & Cookies, Operating Model Trains and Decorated Christmas Trees in the Northern Pacific Railway Museum Admission
Adults $6 ea., Children 12 and under $4 ea. LOTS OF DECORATED CHRISTMAS TREES WITH MODEL TRAINS RUNNING UNDER EACH ONE From Yakima or the Tri-Cities take I-82 Exit 50 to Toppenish. Turn left at the railroad tracks and go till you see the NP Depot on the right. 48.255670.PD/N
865-1911
www.nprymuseum.org
48.260158.PLD.N
Photos with Santa available at an extra charge. Cash or check.
Unique Family Experience
Make sure your baby stays healthy U Get your baby’s teeth screened by age one U Talk to your dentist or physician
For tips on taking care of your baby’s teeth, visit KidsOralHealth.org PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
48.256479.PD/N
7
second opinion
how to maximize a visit with your care provider
BY DR. DAVID POMMER
First, let your provider know within the first minute or two what your priorities are. I don’t want to spend 15 minutes talking about toenail fungus, and then find out your child was in the emergency room last week for a seizure. Consider making a list of what you want to address, and share that early in the visit. Be flexible about having everyAS A PHYSICIAN, I get a lot of junk thing addressed. You and your doctor mail. I shudder at the number of rain can determine the top priorities and forests that have been clear-cut so that hit the high points that day. I can receive glossy brochures of new Second, bring outside records medicines and esoteric conferences. and prescriptions with you. What Most of the mail hits the recycling happened in the emergency room? bin unread. As I skimmed one magaAnd what exactly was that goodzine recently before its inevitable freefall, I read about a consultant who tasting pink medicine you were prescribed? This will also save time explained how physicians can see 10 for nurses, so that they are not playpatients per hour. Ten patients per hour? I laughed out loud. I’m lucky if ing phone tag with other hospitals or clinics to get old records. By I can see three or four. supplying your care team important Fortunately, I have not had those information, the best decisions on kinds of expectations placed on me. future care plans can be made. But your doctor may be under presThird, use the art of paraphrassure to see more patients and spend ing. This is a two-way street. A good less time with each patient. How do physician will briefly summarize what you maximize the available time? you’ve told him or her and “check Here are some tips to keep in mind for understanding.” As a parent, you for that next office visit.
a 8
should similarly try to paraphrase your provider’s diagnosis and treatment plan in a sentence or two at the end of the visit. This will give the provider an opportunity to clarify any element that wasn’t communicated clearly. Fourth, be on time. I know what you’re thinking: why do I have to be on time, but the doctor is almost never on time? I try to apologize readily when I am running late, which is more often that I would like. But if you show up 10 minutes late for a 15-minute visit, that doesn’t provide us much time to address your needs. Fifth, please limit technology. If you are answering a phone call or texting when we are talking, it makes it more difficult to obtain the information I need so we can make the best plan for your child. Finally, and this should go without saying, try to see your own provider. Continuity of care is a hallmark of family medicine and makes for the best medicine. Do your best to see your own primary care provider whether it is for preventative care or an urgent visit. That is, unless they happen to be at a nice conference in Hawaii. Now where did I put that glossy brochure, anyway? * David Pommer is a family physician at Selah Family Medicine. He is married with three children. It did take him more than six minutes to write this story. December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
Join the world’s most accomplished BJJ team with hundreds of representatives bringing the Gracie Family legacy to thousands of individuals around the globe.
48.251427.PD.N
48.259182.pd.N
Let your child have a positive dental experience in a fun and child friendly environment.
Ashley S. Tercero, DDS
48.260165.PDN
PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
9
mom
a
new year new perspective on parenting
AS 2013 APPROACHES, I find myself getting nostalgic. It will be 13 years since I graduated from college, 18 years since I graduated from high school and 35 years since my birth. As much as I have been looking forward to the coming year and what it will mean for me, I have found myself reflecting more on what it will mean for my children. What milestones are in store for them? How will they grow? How can I help them? As my parents predicted, I am getting to the point in life where “someday you’ll understand” is actually today. For instance, I understand the value of money. It was like watching money literally fly down the drain when my 3-year-old daughter poured my salonsplurge shampoo out to make bubbles for her rubber duck. “Do you know how many Starbucks treats that could have been?” I found myself grinding out through clenched teeth when I
10
TEXT BY LACY HEINZ
realized the situation. Images of lost coffee stand treats blended with hours sitting at the computer cranking out adoption paperwork for my clients. In that moment, I realized that my first-born baby wasn’t quite a baby anymore and could start learning a real connection between hard work and everything that we enjoy. New school shirts, coloring books, fresh food and, yes, even shampoo, come from the hours Daddy and I put into our jobs. I never knew the time for that discussion would come so soon. Realizing I was actually upset about the sweet-scented bubbles bathing the shower floor, my girl looked at me and said, “I’m sorry, Mama. I’ll never do it again!” While those words were meant to bring me comfort, I could not tell if my daughter actually understood their meaning. Was it already time for a talk about the value of kindness and understanding how actions affect other people? As her preschool teacher has said, my daughter is exceedingly polite. She says “please,” “thank you,” and
“I’m sorry” by rote when circumstances demand it. However, “I’m sorry. I’ll never do it again!” does not necessarily acknowledge the effect of wasting another person’s overly pricey organic hair treatment. Or how someone feels when he or she is knocked down on the playground. Or when the last birthday cupcake is eaten. So as I toweled off my little girl, we talked for a few minutes about how to respond meaningfully when other people are upset. It was not our first talk about feelings, and it will not be our last. But it was an important one, as I could tell she was able to understand more than ever before. Predictably, the last part of this scenario involves love. My absolute, all-encompassing, nearly terrifying love for my children. I now understand, as I was promised I “someday” would, how much a parent can love a child. I always struggle with mindful parenting in the moment. I was genuinely dismayed by the loss of my fancy shampoo. I clenched my teeth. I huffed and chuffed. We had life lessons on money, hard work and kindness. Then this little person, my perfect little person, wrapped her arms around me while we
“Do you know how many Starbucks treats that could have been?”
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
put fuzzy jammies on before bed, and I couldn’t believe I cared about that dumb shampoo for even a second. I guess maybe that is the ultimate lesson: that we huff and puff, teach respect and kindness because we love them this much. These lightning quick moments of complete and fulfilling love for our children are what keep us going, muddling through the teaching moments. In 2013, my shampoo-dumper will turn 4 and my mischievous, tableclimbing baby boy will turn 2. There will undoubtedly be bigger messes, unkind words exchanged, fights over toys and other little battles that come with the toddler years. There may even be bigger worries — financial woes, grief and loss, struggles at work — really disruptive things that can create family hardship. But, despite what may come, I am confident that our family will be OK because I know the secret: that our children get us through these life lessons. Our pure, visceral love for them. Our need to teach and protect them. Our desire to keep going day after day, just to see them get bigger and stronger and wiser. So here’s to another year of parenting, another 52 weeks of baby kisses, 365 days of setting limits, and 8,766 hours of loving them with all we’ve got. Cheers.
PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
48.257879.PD.N
11
Give me a break!
A minute for
TEXT BY ROBIN SALTS BECKETT
If you get a minute for yourself, this is what we think you should do with it!
InStyle Magazine — I’m not saying I’m some sort of fashion plate — I’m not. Often my wardrobe consists of what is clean, mostly unwrinkled and somewhat matching. But I do love fashion, and I get a ton of inspiration from InStyle magazine. (I’ve found that all my magazines are like little surprises in my mailbox...well worth the cost of a subscription.) InStyle includes a regular feature that pairs one item — say, a tunic-length cardigan — with myriad different options, some I certainly wouldn’t think of myself. It’s helping me break out of my matchy-matchy mindset. And if all else fails, and I’m wearing khakis and a twin-set again, it’s just plain fun to read. The PediSpin — Let’s face it gals, sometimes our feet just aren’t that pretty. And bi-weekly pedicures are not usually an option, as much as I enjoy them. Nonetheless, with our hectic schedules and active lifestyles, our feet get the brunt and often look it. Enter the PediSpin. Like a mini-sander, it rids heels and balls of feet of coarse calluses and rough spots. And it’s completely painless. AND it’s only $14.99 at Target! Ah, my morning latte — I’m a latte drifter and frequent many espresso stands for my daily cup of energy, but one of my favorite little coffee joints is Espresso Express on Tieton Drive. They’ve got great coffee, wonderful flavors and consistent quality. But what I really enjoy is their customer service. They are just so darn sweet! Their service — and coffee — is so good that I’ll even drive several blocks out of my way in order to get my latte there. All that, and they give customers a chocolate-covered coffee bean, too. Now that’s the way to start your morning. Espresso Express • 3706 Tieton Drive • Yakima • 509-452-3004
I made this recipe out of desperation when I was low on groceries in the house and had to make something quick for my hungry, screaming toddler. On hand, I only had a couple of slices of sourdough bread, one can of black beans, one can of refried beans and some left over gorgonzola cheese crumbles in the fridge. Channeling my inner “Food Network Star,” I took what I had left in the pantry and the fridge and whipped it all together in less than five minutes. Little did I know I had created a delicious new appetizer! The next evening, I took some over 12
to a friend’s house. It was gobbled up by my friend’s husband and their toddler! In fact, my friend’s husband, who does not like gorgonzola cheese, said that it was “surprisingly good” and complimented my original use of the beans with the cheese! (And yes, I observed him scarfing down more than one slice, so he wasn’t just being kind to spare my feelings!) INGREDIENTS: 6 slices of sourdough
bread • ½ can of refried beans • ½ can of mashed black beans • ½ to ¾ tub of Gorgonzola crumbles
GORDON KING
Reesha’s Eats: Black Bean Gorgonzola Bruschetta
DIRECTIONS: Toast bread and mix
the beans. Spread beans on toast, then sprinkle on cheese crumbles. Microwave on low power until cheese melts. Slice bread into strips. Then serve to the screaming kid, and voila! Enjoy the happy silence and no leftovers! — Reesha Cosby
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
All your FAVORITE characters under one ROOF! Visit our one-of-a-kind specialty website to find some of the most popular and sought-after licensed character products...offered to the public at UNBEATABLE PRICES! E PRIC EE ANT R A U G H MATC
Visit today! Use this special buyer’s discount code and receive a free gift with your first purchase!
CP-04824
48.255675.PLD.N
Not ready to buy? Use the buyer’s discount code and receive special offers, coupons, and promotions!
Select from... • Clothing • Toys & activity • Room decor • Bath decor • Back-to-school • Learning books • Seasonal • and many more!
www.kirbyscharacters.com 48.258586.PD.N
2010 Characters Club LLC. All rights rexerved. All names, logos, & characters shown here are propeties of their respective owners.
48.26015
PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
13
odds & ends
it’s beginning to look a lot like Sure, Christmas comes only once a year, but that “once” begins earlier and earlier, it seems. ...That can be a good thing! Tuesdays-Sundays Chalet Place Ice
Rink. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. New ice skating rink made from sheets of polyethylene, which isn’t cold and doesn’t require refrigeration or electricity, allowing for the possibility of a yearround outdoor skating rink. “Come July,” says Frank Hieber, co-owner of Incline LLC, which operates Chalet Place Ice Rink, “you might see people in shorts and tank tops skating next to the shaved ice area.” Cost: $5 per person including skate rental, $4 if visitors bring their own skates. There is an unlimited amount of time within the hours of operation. Chalet Place Ice Rink, in the Chalet Place shopping center at 56th Ave. and Summitview Ave., Yakima.
14
Fridays & Saturdays thru Dec. 8 Bill’s
Berry Farm’s “Christmas Trees on the Farm.” 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 30-Dec. 1 & Dec. 7-8. The fun runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Look forward to getting a fresh-cut Christmas tree with the family. While you’re at it, you might get yourself and others handmade wreaths and garlands. Don’t forget to try the hot cocoa, cider and vanilla sugar doughnuts and experience the caroling hay ride. The farm is at 3674 N. County Line Road in Grandview. Call 509-882-3200 for more information.
Saturdays thru Dec. 22 Giant
Gingerbread Man Decorating. Noon-1 p.m. Also offered Dec. 8 and 15. Cost: $15 per child (multiple event sign-ups can receive a discount; call for details). The Cake Decorator Shoppe, 5609 Summitview Ave., Yakima; 509-494-0975.
Saturdays & Sundays thru Dec. 16
Ninth annual Toy Train Christmas. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16. All aboard! Take the train to the North Pole (don’t worry, you won’t need a passport) to see Santa Claus, and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. More than 40 running model trains. Cost: $6 adults, $4 children. Photos with Santa offered for extra fee. Northern Pacific Railway Museum, 10 South Asotin Ave., Toppenish. 509-865-1911. nprymuseum.org Fri., Nov. 23-Mon., Dec. 24 Santa Claus
Visits & Photos. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Mon.Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sundays, & Christmas Eve., 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Valley Mall, 2529 Main Street, Union Gap; 509-0979. shopatvalleymall.com
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
Open house hours
Sat. Nov 12
10 am – 5 pm
Sun. Nov 13
11 am – 4 pm
Enjoy Warm Apple Cider Sample Yakima’s Largest Selection – of WA Specialty Foods The Most Creative Gift Baskets in Yakima Apple Gift Boxes (We Ship) Nostalgic Ornaments New Christmas Items Every Day! Cougar & Husky Gift Headquarters NEW Limited Edition Woof & Poof Door Prizes 39.20389.PLD.M
48.255674.PD/N
48.260174.PLY.N
PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
15
Frugal Tip: Saving Christmas
odds & ends Fri., Nov. 30-Sat., Dec. 1 “The Rented
Christmas.” Nov. 30, 10 a.m. & Dec. 1, 2 p.m. Presented by the Yakima Valley Opera Company. Suggested for ages 3-12. Cost: $15 adults, $12 seniors and students ages 12 and older, $7 children 5-11. The Seasons Performance Hall, 101 N. Naches Ave., Yakima; 509-485-1888. theseasonsyakima.com
Fri., Nov. 30-Mon., Dec. 3 Journey to
Bethlehem. 5-8:30 p.m. Nov. 30-Dec. 3. Take an interactive journey through the streets of a re-created ancient Bethlehem, complete with sets, actors and actresses and animals. Free. Yakima Seventh Day Adventist Church, 507 N. 36th Ave., Yakima; 509-452-2041. yakimasda. org/journey Sat., Dec. 1 Whispers of Christmas. All-day event starts at 8 a.m. with a breakfast with Santa. Other events include kids games from 10:30 a.m.noon, a 5K fun run from 1-3 p.m. (fee attached), a movie from 3-5 p.m with concessions available to purchase, a lighted parade, and a reading from Santa of The Night Before Christmas. Selah Civic Center, 216 S. First St., Selah; 509-698-7302.
Yakima Valley Mueseum Open House. Noon-3 p.m. Free. Several performances are lined up in the Neon Garden: Yakima Youth Symphony at noon, Yakima Children’s Choir at 1 p.m. and the Melody Lane Singers at 2 p.m. The museum is at 2105 Tieton Drive, Yakima. 509-248-0747. yakimavalleymuseum.org. Sun., Dec. 2 Christmas Pops
Spectacular. 4 p.m. Yakima Symphony Orchestra presents Christmas and holiday music for the whole family, in partnership with Yakima Symphony Chorus and Yakima Children’s Choir. Cost: $13.50-$50 per ticket. The Capitol Theatre, 19 S. Third St., Yakima; 509-8538000. capitoltheatre.org 16
BY AUBREY DOES
Sat., Dec. 8 Breakfast with Santa at
Harman Center. 10 a.m. Enjoy fireplace, holiday decorations, music and time with Santa. Bring cameras. Cost: $4 per person. Harman Center, 101 N. 65th Ave., Yakima. Call to register by Nov. 30: 509-575-6166. Sun., Dec. 9 Yakima Youth Symphony
Orchestra Winter Concert. 3-4 p.m. Theme: “Destinations Ahead!” Cost: $5 at the door. The Capitol Theatre, 19 S. Third St., Yakima; 509-853-8000. yyso.org
Fri., Dec. 14-Sat., Dec. 15 Luminaria.
The Yakima Area Arboretum will host its annual Luminaria from 6-9 p.m. both nights. Go see more than 1,000 candles lighting the pathway, along with holiday music and the tallest Christmas tree in Central Washington. Coffee, hot apple cider and treats are also provided. Kids can enjoy making crafts. Yakima Area Arboretum, 1401 Arboretum Drive, Yakima; 509-248-7337. ahtrees.org Sat., Dec. 15 Yakima Valley Holiday
Trolley. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Ride the electric trolley with Santa and enjoy holiday treats. Cost: $4 per person. Electric Railway Museum, South Third Avenue and Pine Street, Yakima; 509-249-5962. Tues., Dec. 18-21 Classes at the Cake
Decorator Shoppe: Dec. 18, Cookie Decorating; Dec. 19, Cupcake Decorating; Dec. 20, Mini-Cake Decorating; Gingerbread House Decorating. 10 a.m.-noon Cost: $25 per person (discount for multiple day signups). The Cake Decorator Shoppe, 5609 Summitview Ave., Yakima; 509-494-0975. Wed., Dec. 19 Christmas Potluck &
Entertainment. 6-8 p.m. Featuring Gone Fiddling Again. Broadway Grange No. 647, 909 W. Washington Ave., Yakima. 509-949-2100.
The weather has cooled, which means the season for buying gifts is here. Hopefully these simple tips will take some of the stress away from all of the cost associated with the holidays. The first and most important thing to do is to make a list of the people you will need to purchase gifts for and your approximate budget for each person. When you make your list, be realistic and decide on amounts that are attainable without having you go into debt. Once I set my budget amounts for each person, I work really, really hard to try to come in as far under that number as possible.This doesn’t mean that I get cheap gifts, I just try to get as good a deal as possible on the item. So how do I save on the actual gifts? The answer is any way I possibly can. Black Friday has come and gone, but there are other deals out there. Shopping online during the holiday season is a big part of my savings, also. In-store be aware of special coupons. Keep an eye on the ads, know what you’re looking for and buy it when the price dips. Don’t wait to start thinking about the financial side of Christmas. It’s no surprise that it comes every year but somehow many families end up going into debt over the holiday. Come January, they get a depressing credit card bill that makes for a bleak start to the new year. Plan ahead and put a little aside from each paycheck! Also, check big toy clearances throughout the year and stockpile your gifts for the holiday. So there you have it! Probably nothing new to all of you frugal shoppers, but maybe some of you needed permission to spend less this year. I have already started to share great deals for gift items on my blog — you can check it out at frugalyakimamom.com Together we can help keep each other from overspending and focus on the importance of the season!
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
www.LesSchwab.com Offers Expire 12/31/2012
Free Lifetime Tire & Mileage Care
Free Peace of Mind Tire Protection
To help you get more miles out of your tires and more miles per gallon of gas
Whatever the road throws at you, from potholes to nails, we guarantee you’re protected
traction PaSSEnGEr tirES
BATTERIES
W409 FREE
Road HazaRd • Flat RepaiR Mounting • Rotations aiR CHeCKs
STARTING AT
80 36 175/70TR-13
Your Size in STock caLL for Size & Price
average BaTTerY Life Per region
4-6 YearS 4-5 YearS 3-4 YearS 2-3 YearS
OUTSTANdING dRIvING STABILITy ExCELLENT SNOW & ICE TRACTION PINNEd FOR STUdS
OBSERvE FREE
Road HazaRd • Flat RepaiR Mounting • Rotations aiR CHeCKs
STUddEd TIRE ALTERNATIvE
FREE
Road HazaRd • Flat RepaiR Mounting • Rotations aiR CHeCKs
don’t be left in the cold... have a FREE Battery Test performed today!
195/60TR-14
chAInS
Tread deSign maY varY
QUICK FIT dIAmONd Tm PASSENGER
STARTING AT
139 25 215/70SR-16
Your Size in STock caLL for Size & Price
A quality light truck/SUV tire that provides outstanding traction during harsh weather conditions.
84 mONTH WARRANTy
590-900 Cold Cranking Amps
reduced evaPoraTion, gaSSing & corroSion 550-750 Cold Cranking Amps
Recommended on all 4 wheel positions, this tire offers a rubber compound designed for excellent traction without tire studs.
WINTERCAT SST
xTREmE POWER
xHd
107 12
LiGHt trUcK/SUV tirES
500-575 Cold Cranking Amps
72 mONTH WARRANTy
STARTING AT
Your Size in STock caLL for Size & Price
50 mONTH
50 mONTH WARRANTy
PASSENGER STARTING AT
89 95
liGht tRuck & Suv
They take the work and frustration out of using tire chains. They go on and off quickly and fit right to provide excellent traction during tough winter driving conditions.
An AL OMIc n EcO OIcE! ch
SNAP LOCK CABLE CHAIN STARTING AT
29 95
PASSENGER CHAIN RETURN PROGRAM: If you don’t use your passenger car chains, return them for a full refund after the last legal date for studded tires. (Does not apply to the Quick Trak traction device)
Over 30 Years experience • premium QualitY parts • Best Brake WarrantY • prOfessiOnallY trained technicians
48.251019.PLD.N
BEST BRAKE vALUE PROmISE FREE BRAKE INSPECTIONS • FREE ESTImATES • SAmE dAy SERvICE (ON MOST VEHICLES)
PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
17
health
y
Strict Avoidance: Living with the threat of anaphylaxis
“YOUR SON is allergic to peanuts and tree nuts. You must practice ‘strict avoidance.’ He must have two doses of epinephrine with him at all times. He is at risk for anaphylaxis.” Those are the words that changed our lives two years ago. Our pediatric allergist gave us a book, some pamphlets and a 5-minute Epi-pen training. He gave us a prescription for Epi-pens and sent us on our way. By the time we made it to the parking lot, I was sobbing. The words were sinking in and I knew our life had changed forever. My husband, who was still not really sure what had just happened, seemed confused by my emotional reaction. I knew he didn’t really “get it” yet, but the scary reality of the situation sank in for him, too, over the next few weeks as we both educated ourselves on managing lifethreatening food allergies. The diagnosis was in such a matterof-fact manner that it was hard to comprehend the profound impact it would have on all aspects of our life. The word “anaphylaxis” loomed heavy on my mind. Most people understand that anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that is rapid in onset and may cause death, but for me this word was very real. The previous year I had seen my mother hospitalized after suffering an anaphylactic drug reaction. She was put on a ventilator for a week and despite the predictions of her doctors, she suffered no brain damage. She recovered, but 18
BY SUZANNE VOLDMAN
the future for Abe, my then 18-month-old son, looked terrifying. I read everything I could about food allergies. I found many online communities that shared valuable information and the empathy and support that none of my friends or family could really give to me. Most of all I desperately wanted to talk to someone personally who understood. I contacted two friends I had known in high school who had children with food allergies. I wanted someone to tell me the secret to dealing with the fear and anxiety that a food allergy diagnosis brings. They gave tips and advice, sharing ideas about how to deal with birthday parties and pointing out “safe” restaurants and products. Ultimately, each shared the same advice distilled in this way: “Your son deserves to live his life fully. Do the very best you can to keep him safe by educating yourself and everyone else around you. You will get tired of repeating yourself with friends and family, but that is what you need to do. Don’t let the fear rule your life. Pray.” While I was still in the pit of grief,
Abe Voldman, 3
this advice seemed rather simplistic and it left me feeling rather helpless. Is this really all I could do? They had been dealing with this for a long time; surely there was some other secret to managing this new life? It took months and months for me to appreciate and understand the wisdom they had shared. As I researched more, I began to feel somewhat lucky that the only allergies we faced were peanuts and tree nuts. I learned that many people deal with multiple food allergies that severely restrict their diets. Our diets were more limited than one would suspect, however, because although it is easy to remove nuts and nut December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
48.255673.PD/N
PlaydateMagazine.com
48.259417.PD/N
butters from a diet, “cross contamination” from nut products during the production process makes many more products dangerous. Foods like ice cream, bakery items and most chocolate became off-limits because the cross contamination risk was too high. I learned about the real risk of “cross contamination” when my son developed mild hives after eating a pancake mix. There were no nuts listed in the ingredients, but after a call to the manufacturer I discovered that the production line used for the pancake mix was also used for a trail mix containing almonds. “Cross contamination” had been a vague, unlikely concept before this. It is really difficult to imagine that such miniscule particles can be life-threatening, but that incident made it a very real and believable concept. This constant level of scrutiny and fear can make food feel like an enemy. I was just starting to come to terms with our situation a month after the initial diagnosis when Abe had another reaction to tangerines. The next few months led to new reactions and more rounds of testing. Six months after our initial nut and tree nut allergy diagnosis, Abe had been diagnosed with allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, most legumes (including peas and lentils), peaches, pineapple, kiwi, oranges, tangerines and lemons.
19
health FOOD ALLERGY RESOURCES
Allergic Living magazine. First started in Canada, the U.S. version of Allergic Living kicked off in 2010, and features food allergy and asthma news, personal stories, tips, medical information and recipes. allergicliving.com Food Allergies for Dummies. By Robert A. Wood, MD. An accessible, thorough book on food allergies. Part of the “For Dummies” series, published in 2007. $19.99 in paperback. The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN). The website offers a wealth of information on all major food allergies and includes a link to a useful pamphlet called “The Peanut Answer Book.” A toll-free number is available any time of day or night if parents need to call to ask questions. foodallergy.org Kids with Food Allergies. A nonprofit organization that promotes and develops plans for children with food allergies to live nutritious and healthy lives. The group focuses on educating the public about food allergies and providing networking to those with food allergies. kidswithfoodallergies.org How to Manage Your Child’s Life Threatening Food Allergies: Practical Tips For Everyday Life. By Linda Marienhoff Cross. Another acclaimed and helpful resource book, first published in 2004. $16.95 in paperback. Mayo Clinic. The website lists the eight most common food allergies and their symptoms. These food allergies are milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy and wheat. The site also provides tips on reading labels properly and how to allergy-proof your house. mayoclinic. com/health/food-allergies/AA00057 The Nut-Free Mom blog. Jenny Kales runs one of the most popular and informative blogs on the subject of peanut and tree nut allergies. nut-freemom.com WAFEAST — Washington Food Allergy, Eczema, and Asthma Support Team. Based in Seattle, WAFEAST provides networking, support groups and education for those dealing with food allergies, asthmas and other concerns. wafeast.org Y-FAST — Yakima Food Allergy/Intolerance Support Team. Brand-new food allergy/intolerance support group in Yakima. Stay tuned for resources, events, and connecting opportunities. Playdate magazine will offer updates. 20
I was now one of the “multiple food allergy” moms I had felt sorry for only months before. I researched obsessively. I talked to other families in online support communities. I read articles, blogs and books that gave tips about reading labels and cooking for children with allergies. I got a lot of answers, but for those six months I became obsessed with questions. Would his grandparents understand and be willing to keep him safe? How will we ever have a playdate? Would we ever be able to leave him with a baby sitter? How will he ride the bus safely? Will I trust his teachers to understand and keep him safe? How will he go to school safely? When he becomes a teenager will he be able to protect himself? Will I make a mistake? The questions I had were difficult and during that time felt overwhelming. Over the next year and a half I have come to terms with those questions. Most of them have no real answers. My friends’ advice has echoed in my mind. I get it now. This is what I have to do. I don’t like it. I wish it was different. A life of “strict avoidance” is not convenient, and it’s not fun sometimes. Our lives revolve around food, and almost every social situation will involve food. There are lots of misconceptions about food allergies. I do get tired of repeating the same information and answering the same questions, but those questions are important because the answers I give keep my son safe. Awareness keeps him safe. Teaching others about food allergies is my responsibility now. Every day I work to let
Dane and Abe Voldman
go of my anxiety and refuse to let fear rule my life. My son is probably going to live with this condition for life. I am showing him how to ‘live fully’ with this challenge. I want him to be safe, not live in fear. We try to focus on the food we can eat instead of focusing on food we miss. We eat good, healthy food that makes us happy and is safe for all of us. As parents, we want to be the role models that show him how to advocate for himself without apology or shame. We need to show him how to manage social situations with grace so that as he enters adolescence he feels comfortable doing it himself. I have also come to terms with the fear that I will make a mistake. I will. I have. It will probably happen again. Part of living with food allergies is knowing this fact and being prepared to deal with it effectively, and so I pray. I pray for the courage and strength to do all of this with grace for myself and others. The simple advice my friends had given me months before was, in fact, my new strategy for life with food allergies: “Eat, Read, Teach, Pray.”
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
Accepting New Patients Opening January 2013
CALL TODAY TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
(509) 248-2973 Creating healthy, happy smiles for kids and teens
Neal H. Smith, DMD
Board-Certified Pediatiric Dentist
48.258113.pd.N
www.cwpediatricdentistry.com
48.260152.PLD.N
48.260159.PD.N
PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
21
crafts
THE 12 CRAFTS
Christmas
OF
(AND A FEW RECIPES TOO!)
IDEAS AND STYLING BY SCOTT KLEPACH JR., JILL ST. GEORGE & ROBIN SALTS BECKETT • PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA GETTYS
• DARLING DRUM
• A FESTIVE FIDO
Families love their Fidos, and there’s no reason (just no good reason!) to let Fido go without his own version of the holiday sweater. This collar is super-cute and a great way to get kids to practice their scissor skills — and to get in the spirit of things. Just get assorted “fat quarters,” which are quilting squares and available at fabric stores. Cut equal sized strips of fabric using pinking shears. Tie in knots onto a dog collar (preferabley new, since untying those knots might be a post-holiday pain). Canine Couture!
1 coffee can, with lid 1 can opener Aluminum foil Construction paper Puff paint Glue
Take a standard coffee can and use a can opener to remove the bottom. Use glue to add paper and decorate with puff paint. Cover top with aluminum foil and place lid over it for snare drum effect. Make it as simple or fancy as you like!
• NUTS FOR NUTELLA
A delicious version of a holiday favorite: hot cocoa. NUTELLA HOT COCOA RECIPE ADAPTED FROM A RECIPE ON FOOD.COM
Ingredients 3 Tablespoons Nutella or hazelnut spread 1 cup milk 1/2 cup cream or half and half whipped cream handful of hazelnuts, roasted briefly and chopped Directions Warm milk and cream and melt hazelnut spread into milk. Pour into cup and top with whipped cream and chopped nuts. 22
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
• RETRO RINGS
Craft paper can be used in so many ways, and one of the best is to make a simple — and inexpensive — garland. The patterns are current, so your holiday decor can be stylish without being pricey. This 15foot garland was made with nine sheets of 12-inch by 12-inch paper, cut into 1 1/2-inch strips, then stapled in large rings. Total cost: $4.50. Craft paper from Craft Warehouse on Nob Hill Blvd.
• SANTA’S FAVORITE COOKIES
Really! Santa told us so! Ingredients: 3/4 cup margarine (part butter or margarine, softened) 1 cup sugar 2 eggs
• MINTY-FRESH REINDEER
A peppermint candycane can easily be transformed into a reindeer with two wobbly craft eyes, brown pipe cleaner and a red pom pom. Quite simply twist the pipe cleaner around the top of the candy cane and cut the antlers to desired length. Using hot glue, place the eyes around the curved part and the pom pom at the end, to give Rudolph his glowy red nose.
Christmas • EASTER EGGS
1 teaspoon vanilla or 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt
Thoroughly mix shortening, sugar, eggs and flavoring. Blend in flour, baking powder and salt. Cover; chill at least 1 hour. Heat oven to 400 degrees. Roll dough 1/8 inch thick on lightly floured, cloth-covered board. Cut into desired shapes. Place on ungreased baking sheet. Bake 6 to 8 minutes or until very light brown. Makes about 4 dozen 3-inch cookies. Frosting Stir together powdered sugar and water to desired consistency. Add food coloring of your choice. Decorate with sprinkles, sparkling sugar, gel, candies or whatever you desire.
Who says eggs are only for Easter? Purchase wooden eggs, or better yet, find rocks to use as your eggs. Use deep colors (we prefer dark red, blue and green) to paint your “eggs,” and then add puff paint or glitter glue to decorate for the season. PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
23
crafts
• MERRY MITTENS
Sweater too small? Then make mittens! Using your hand as a pattern, trace around its edges, giving an extra inch for sewing. Cut out the sweater fabric and then sew together backwards using a sewing maching or handstitching. Flip right-side-out and then hot glue red pom poms around the wrist of the mittens. Your old sweater makes for a cozy pair of upcycled mittens.
• CUSTOM CARDS
Nothing is more heartfelt than a hand-made card. Using craft paper, card stock and pinking shears, you and your kids can make your own — and practice scissor skills at the same time. Decorate with art from magazines.
• DIY DECORATING
Stores like Michaels or Craft Warehouse have a plethora of do-ityourself ornaments, which are clear and come in all sorts of sizes and shapes. You can add scraps of paper, tinsel, paint — or even glitter — to get the custom look you want for your tree.
24
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
JENNIFER DAGDAGAN
• PARTRIDGE IN A PEAR (TART) TREE COURTESY OF KATHY SALI AT LA MAISON. LAMAISONCHEF.COM
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Ingredients 5-7 pears (depending on size), peeled and cored (Kathy slices the pear in half, carefully removes the seeds in the center and then lays the pear cut side down on a cutting board. She then slices the pear half at a 45-degree angle, so they can be placed in the pan in a fanned position.) 2 Tablespoons butter 1/2 cup sugar 1 square puff pastry, thawed
Directions Put butter and sugar in a 9-inch cast iron skillet. Lay your pears on top of the butter and sugar, then put the skillet on the stovetop at medium low to medium heat. You can crowd the pears in the pan a bit, since they shrink as they cook. Let it sit — don’t stir. After about 15-20 minutes, the pear juices mix with the butter and sugar and will start to turn a pretty caramel color. Remove the pan from the heat.
Cover the top with puff pastry — Kathy says she buys ready-made puff pastry for this dish. Tuck the corners down into the pan, then use a spoon to tuck the entire edge of the pastry down into the bubbling caramel. Put the pan in the oven for about 7 minutes or until the top is brown. Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes, so the caramel can thicken. Place a plate on top of the skillet and carefully flip the tart onto the plate. Serve with vanilla ice cream.
PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
• EASY ANTIQUE-ING
Antique mercury glass can be quite spendy — so why not make your own? All you need is vinegar, water and Krylon’s “looking glass” spray paint. Clean and dry your glass surface, then spray with a fine mist of one part vinegar, one part water. Spray a light coat of Krylon spray. Let dry for one minute and then repeat. After several light coats, dab with a paper towel. The paint will come up, giving it an antiqued appearance. Anything from a simple glass vase to a dollar store votive can be made vintage in a matter of minutes — or at least look that way. 25
family
I
IT’S DIFFICULT ENOUGH to be away from family at any point during the year, especially during a holiday or special occasion. For military families, though, the distance is felt immeasurably more, when a spouse and parent is separated from family by thousands of miles in an unsafe zone during times of war. Some troops get to come home for a muchneeded reprieve. Some families can never bridge that gulf once tragedy strikes. This is the story of one local military family, and a chronicle of their reunion.
26
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
Homeward Bound A MILITARY FAMILY REUNION BY SCOTT KLEPACH, JR.
Cristina Navarro is a Yakima mom of three children, whose husband, Lee Navarro, is an Army soldier. Lee was deployed to Iraq from August 2008 to August 2009, and with extra time spent in training, he was away from the family for a total of 15 months. On Aug. 14, 2008, when Cristina was pregnant with twins — and just two days before Lee left the U.S. — the couple married. The wedding was during Cristina’s 30-minute lunch break from a local retail store where she was working at the time. “That’s something I’m going to love to tell the kids,” she says. The twins, Sophia and Robert, were born in October that same year. Part of Lee’s time away was during the Christmas season, so Cristina, 21, began a daily winter tradition. She created paper chain links to put on the tree for their kids, including their nephew Shadow, who the couple helped raise. This paper chain link PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
served as a countdown for the family to see how many days remained before Lee came home to visit. Each night they would rip off a link. “I remember how hard it was for my husband when he was away, and that helped him, too,” says Cristina. “I was lucky to have contact with my husband often.” The couple could typically communicate four days a week on the telephone or via Skype or email. “It was hard but made him realize how close he was to being home even if it would only be for two weeks,” Cristina says. She and the kids also kept busy creating care packages for Lee and his friends, always theme-based and even custom made. One gift was a Christmas tree that boosted the soldiers’ morale. “They told me the smell took them home,” says Cristina. The packages to Lee always included photos, notes and treats, all of which the kids helped decorate. 27
family
HOW YOU CAN HELP AND GET HELP
Cristina says Operation Christmas Tree is no longer in service, but there are other ways to send gifts to troops. Here are a few options. “Adopt a U.S. Soldier.” This program allows anyone to become a soldier’s pen pal or send care packages. 7440 S. Blackhawk St., Suite 15-106, Englewood, Colo., 80112. adoptaussoldier.org “Adopt a Platoon.” This program screens givers beforehand. “They call the supporter,” says Cristina, “and then match them up with single or married deployed troops so that a single person doesn’t write to a married one just in case that is uncomfortable for anyone.” Donations can be sent to AdoptaPlatoon Soldier Support Effort, P.O. Box 234, Lozano, Texas, 78568-0234. adoptaplatoon.org “Military Significant Others and Spouse Support.” This is where significant others of troops can go to find support. Through this organization, Cristina says she has formed many bonds with other military wives and significant others. militarysos.com
When the twins were born, Lee couldn’t make it home to be there. Cristina couldn’t even get the message out to him in time, before she went into delivery suddenly at 37 weeks. But Lee was able to call her the next day. “When he heard them crying, he started crying,” Cristina says. That call was interrupted by sudden motor attacks where he was stationed, and he couldn’t contact her again for another week. Eventually he was able to come home, if only for a while. “He held the babies so carefully,” Cristina says. “My husband’s a big fellow and they were still small.” Christina’s last pregnancy was unexpected, and the couple found out the news the day before Lee had to return to Iraq to serve for another seven months in 2009. Cristina remembers Lee not wanting to leave, knowing he was looking forward to helping out, and had already been getting practice changing diapers and making bottles. “I remember the night before he left, I helped him pack and I was folding his socks,” Cristina says. “I was crying, rubbing my belly and trying my hardest to tackle those socks. I didn’t realize until I was on my last pair that Lee was taking them out of his rucksack and refolding them. I remember being a bit hysterical, saying that I couldn’t even fold the socks the right way. What kind of Army wife was I going to be?” When Lee, now 25, finally came home for good, Cristina was seven months’ pregnant with daughter Mia, and Sophia and Robert were not yet a year old.
“He was able to see what he missed before. I know it was bittersweet for him,” says Cristina. “I went through everything alone and it was hard on him.” Lee was there for Mia’s birth, who was born the month after he returned. So far, Lee has only been deployed once, but remains “on call,” as Cristina calls it, which means he could get sent out at any point. “I can say without a doubt that if or when he leaves again I will be prepared,” says Cristina. Although Shadow no longer lives with them, they have their hands full with the twins and Mia, now 4 and 3 respectively. The kids are now old enough to ask what Lee does in the Army — which they pronounce “awe-mee,” — and if “he’ll be home in five minutes, or if he will take them to a park when he comes home,” says Cristina. “They love telling me we are Army strong, and we are.” Despite the separation and the “firsts” the family missed out on together, Cristina says she would do it all over again if she had the chance. “I am proud of my husband and proud of all the past, present and fallen troops,” she says. “The loved ones left behind serve, too, when their loved ones go. It’s tough and not everyone survives, but my husband doesn’t fight because he hates what’s in front of him, but because he loves what’s behind him.”
Photos from left to right: A care package Cristina made for Lee and his fellow troops. • The Navarros’ nephew, Shadow, dresses up like uncle Lee. • Lee holds his daughter, Mia, for the first time.
28
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
GO GREEN with Elite Towing & Recovery the company dedicated to... keeping YOUR family safe. • Safe and Professional Drivers • 24 Hr. Emergency Roadside Assistance • Direct Insurance Billing 48.255671.PLD.N
Prosser Sunnyside Yakima 509-788-4TOW 509-457-4TOW 509-837-4TOW 48.256820.PD.N 48.256267.PD.N
PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
29
calendar
Christmas & Holiday Bazaars SEE PAGE 14 FOR CHRISTMAS AND HOLIDAY EVENTS
CHRISTMAS & HOLIDAY BAZAARS There’s nothing bizarre about having plenty of Christmas and holiday bazaars still around the corner! FRIDAY, NOV. 30-SUNDAY, DEC. 2 ANNUAL MERRY MAKINGS CRAFTS FAIR. Nov. 30: 12-8 p.m.; Dec. 1: 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Dec. 2: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Come see the Lighted Implement Parade and homemade and handcrafted items. Mid Valley Mall, 2010 Yakima Valley Highway, Sunnyside. Contact Nancy at 509-528-5107. MIGHTY TIETON HOLIDAY CRAFT BAZAAR. The event features handmade crafts, antique items and food. Come see the chandeliers, the annual tree lighting and Santa. The bazaar runs 5-8:30 p.m. Nov. 30, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 1 and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 2. Mighty Tieton Warehouse is at 608 Wisconsin Ave. in Tieton. Call 509-847-3034 for more details. SATURDAY, DEC. 1 AMERICAN LEGION CHRISTMAS BAZAAR. 9 a.m.-3 p.m., with soup and salad bar from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. American Legion Auxilary No. 36, 1120 N. 34th Ave., Yakima. Call Linda at 509-248-3194 or Betty at 509-248-5642. CHRISTMAS BAZAAR AND BAKE SALE. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Hand-crafted gift items. Pictures with Santa for $4. Tree of Life Lutheran Church, 410 N. 37th St., Terrace Heights. CHRISTMAS OF HOPE HOLIDAY BAZAAR. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. More than 45 vendors, with special guests, plus Toys for Tots. Glenwood Square, 5110 Tieton Drive, Yakima. Contact: Nora, 509-833-2739.
30
VFW & EAGLES FOE JOINT HOLIDAY BAZAAR. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with lunch served at 11 a.m. Yakima Eagles, 307 W. Chestnut, Yakima. Contact Kellie (VFW) at 509-697-4338 or Sharon (FOE) at 509-248-3564. WESLEY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH BAZAAR. 9 a.m.-2 p.m., with lunch served from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., with homemade pie, soup and sandwiches. Homemade items, baked goods, candy, Redware (embroidery), and fresh Christmas swags. Wesley United Methodist Church, 14 N. 48th Ave., Yakima; 509-966-2370. ZILLAH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BAZAAR. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Zillah Civic Center, 119 First Ave., Zillah. FRIDAY, DEC. 7 WOMAN’S CENTURY CLUB OPEN HOUSE. 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Soup and bread luncheon and bazaar. Cost: $10. Woman’s Century Club, 304 N. Second St., Yakima; 509-453-3921. SATURDAY, DEC. 8 CATHOLIC DAUGHTERS OF AMERICA BAZAAR. 8:30-11 a.m. Breakfast with Santa. Bring your camera for photos with Santa. Cost: $4 children 3-11, $7 ages 12 and older. Holy Family Church, 5315 Tieton Drive, Yakima. Contact: 509-910-1691 or 509-453-4262. WINTER BAZAAR. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Crafts and home-based businesses. Lunch will be served. Selah Civic Center, 216 S. First St., Selah. Contact Joelle at 509-833-3482. FRIDAY, DEC. 14-SATURDAY, DEC. 15 CHRISTMAS BAZAAR AT WINTER LODGE AT CULTURAL HERITAGE CENTER. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Hand-crafted native jewelry, art, holiday decorations, baked goods. Yakama Nation Cultural Center, Spiel-yi Loop and Buster Road, Toppenish. Contact Kiona at 509-930-3752 or 509-930-8510.
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
48.260663.PD.N
Summitview site offers Montessori for 18 months-kinder, school year or year-round. The Elementary site offers 1st-8th grade, school year and year round calendar as well. Limited Spaces Available!
(509) 966-1080 • Fax (509) 966-3618 oakridgeyakima@aol.com
PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
Like us on Facebook!
48.257294.PD.N
TOP: EMMA JIM SUMNER, 3 YEARS ABOVE: ISAIAS MARQUEZ, 7
Contact Judy to arrange a tour or to answer any of your questions. 6403 Summitview Ave. • Yakima
31
This New Year... Make Your Health A Priority Let us be your partner in health – at Best Practices our patients and their health care goals are always PRIORITY.
REPEATING EVENTS HIGHLIGHTED WITH BLUE BACKGROUND SUNDAYS PARENTING CLASS. 11 a.m., Jan. 20-Mar. 17. “Love and Limits without Spanking or Spoiling.” Certified life educator and author Laurie Kanyer leads free parenting classes. Chidcare and kids’ programs available. First Presbyterian Church, 9 S. 8th Ave., Yakima; 509-248-7940. fpcyakima.org
• Pediatrics • Women’s Health exams • Simple procedures • Preventative care • Vaccines • Health Education
MONDAYS MOM & BABY. 10 a.m.-noon. This group is for moms and their babies up to 12 months old. No registration is needed and the group is free to attend. This group allows other moms to meet and receive helpful suggestions when it comes to raising a baby. Located at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital’s Education Center in Nob Hill Plaza, 2506 W. Nob Hill Blvd.; 509-248-7322.
We Also Manage Chronic Illnesses • Diabetes • Hypertension • Asthma
Learn more about us online at bestpracticesfhc.com
509-426-BEST(2378) 5 S. 14th Ave. • Yakima
48.260177.PLD.N
Raney Commet DNP, ARNP
calendar
SECOND & FOURTH MONDAYS ONE HEART SUPPORT GROUP. Noon-1:30 p.m. Support group for relatives raising relatives’ children. Casey Family Programs, 404 N. Third St., Yakima; Call 509-952-5162 for more info. THIRD TUESDAYS LA LECHE LEAGUE. 6 p.m. Dec. 18, Jan. 15. Group offers breastfeeding help and lactation support to women. 307 S. 12th Ave., Suite 11, Yakima; contact Heidi at 509-952-0225 or Amy at 509-426-8493.
NEW PRESCHOOL OPENING 2013
TUESDAYS TODDLER STORY TIME. 10 a.m. at Inklings Bookshop. Chalet Place, 5629 Summitview Ave., Yakima; 509-965-5830. inklingsbookshop.com
We are excited to announce the grand opening of our new Christian based preschool in the fall of 2013! Beautiful Westside location with easy highway access. Open to 3, 4 and 5 year old children. Half day AND Full day classes available. Extended hours until 6 pm Your child will learn to love Jesus and be successful in this life and eternity! You will love our beautiful Westside location to start your child’s journey to Excellence! Don’t miss this opportunity! Space is limited. Call 966-1933 for info!
TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND LEARN. 1:30-3 p.m. Ready by Five’s Kaleidoscope Play & Learn groups emphasize thematic, structured and interactive play, and are open to everyone. Ready By Five, 414 N. Third St., Yakima. 454-2493. readybyfive.org.
Yakima Adventist Christian School
1200 City Reservoir Rd.
Yakima, WA 98908
509-966-1933
www.yacsschool.org 48.255676.pdn
32
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
Enroll with Northwest Allprep Now Enrolling for 2012-2013 TUESDAYS-SUNDAYS CHALET PLACE ICE RINK. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. New ice skating rink made from sheets of polyethylene, which isn’t cold and doesn’t require refrigeration or electricity, allowing for the possibility of a year-round outdoor skating rink. Cost: $5 per person including skate rental, $4 if visitors bring their own skates. There is an unlimited amount of time within the hours of operation. Chalet Place Ice Rink, in the Chalet Place shopping center at 56th Ave. and Summitview Ave., Yakima. WEDNESDAYS MOMMY CONNECTION. 9:30-11:30 a.m. First hour is Mommy & Me, second hour is just for moms; all ages welcome. Free. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 6015 Summitview Ave. For child-care reservations and more information, email Kate: katejoyt@hotmail.com. BABY AND ME. 10-11 a.m. For tots 6 months-3 years. Pool time for parents and kids. Lions Pool, 509 W. Pine Street; 509-575-6046. KIDS’ CASTLE 2-FOR-1 DAY. Open at 10 a.m.; call for closing. Two kids play for the price of one. Cost: $2.50 up to age 2; ages 3 and older are $5.25 for one hour or $8 unlimited; weekend rates are higher. Clean socks required. Located inside Gymnastics Plus, 2121 W. Lincoln Ave.; 509-453-8126. DIVORCECARE FOR KIDS. 6:30-8 p.m. Support group for children, ages 5-12, whose parents are divorced, separated or reconciling. Adult group meets at the same time. Current session ends Dec. 12; will begin again in spring of 2013. Roosevelt Elementary School, 120 N. 16th Ave., Yakima. Contact Jenni at 509-654-2124 or hhhcouncil@gmail.com. yakimadivorcecare.net SECOND THURSDAYS SIBSHOPS. 5:30-8 p.m. Monthly support group for children ages 6-12 who have special-needs siblings. Children’s Village, 3801 Kern Way, Yakima; 509-574-3200.
Apply online at: www.nwallprep.com More Flexible More Efficient More Personal Open to all 3rd – 12th Grade Students In Washington At No Cost Ask about our Early College Transition, Running Start, and GED programs
Attend our Open House on the 1st/3rd Thursday of each month 12/6, 12/20, 1/3, 1/17 @ Ramirez Child Care Center 305 W. Lincoln Ave., Yakima WA 98902 (Across the street from People for People)
6 PM - 7 PM (509) 426-4022 to RSVP
Northwest Allprep
An innovative online school – Apply at: www.nwallprep.com Northwest Allprep is a state approved, fully accredited program that contracts with the Toppenish School District and is open to all students (3 – 12) in the State of Washington - at no cost
Apply online at: www.nwallprep.com NWALLprep is based on the idea that innovative methods lead to the most powerful educational opportunities. Our flexible program makes this possible! A student’s program can include at-home learning, a self-paced online curriculum, and an assigned certified teacher. We believe every student can succeed in our program! Go to www.nwallprep.com for more information or call: (509) 426-4022
48.257943.PD/N
Now ENrolliNg for Early Head Start, Migrant/ Seasonal Head Start, Head Start & ECEAP programs! 16 locations throughout Central Washington to serve you. EPIC offers a variety of programs serving pregnant women and children ages 0-5. Our comprehensive preschool programs prepare children and their families for success in school. SErvicES iNcludE: USDA approved meals & snacks, hearing & vision exams, child development & social-emotional assessments, growth & nutritional screenings, and more! All services are FREE to eligible children and families. Families of children with Special Needs, in Foster Care, or Homeless are encouraged to apply!
Call (509) 248-3950 for a location nearest you! Or visit our website www.epicnet.org. 48.255672.PLD.N
PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
33
The look of
Success
calendar
We have the affordable solution! We offer individualized tutoring, diagnostic skills assessments and proven results. Call Avail Learning today and discover the look of success in your child’s smile.
THIRD THURSDAYS YAKIMA AUTISM SUPPORT. 6:30-8 p.m. Parentto-Parent support group for families raising children with autism. Children’s Village, 3801 Kern Way, Yakima; 509-574-3200. CIRCLE MUSIC JAM. 7-9 p.m.: Dec. 20, Jan. 17. Gone Fiddling Again hosts a jam for all ages and abilities. The jams are described as nutrition for the music soul, and combines musical ingredients including country, folk, fiddle, bluegrass and blues. 217 S. 63rd Ave., Yakima; 509-949-2100. gonefiddlingagain.com
• Study skills • Reading • Math • Writing • SAT/ACT Prep • Homework support • Grades Pre-K through 12 & Adult
LAST THURSDAYS FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP FOR TYPE 1 DIABETES. 6-7:30 p.m. No charge; child care available for a charge. Contact Abbie at 509-9529725 for more info. Children’s Village, 3801 Kern Way, Yakima; 509-574-3200.
| avail learning 509.469.2544
Financing Available Limited Time Offer. Other Restrictions Apply. Offer Good at Yakima Location Only.
Formerly known as KnowledgePoints
www.availlearning.com
509.735.2132
5215 W. Clearwater Ave., Suite 102 • Kennewick
48.259259.PDN
1517 Summitview Ave., Suite 100 • Yakima
DANCE WEAR & SHOES AVAILABLE HipHop
Jazz
Modern
Ballet
Tap
Pointe
WHERE YOUR CHILD IS GOING TO LEARN TO DANCE PROPERLY!
25
40th & Summitview, Sute 20 (In the Westpark Shopping Center)
Comotion DanceCen@qwestoffice.net 34
Small Class Sizes For Proper Development
48.259260.PLD.N
966-0676
Proud member of
JONATHON LARA AT WHITE PASS
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
FRIDAYS DRAWING CLASS. 4-6 p.m. Drop-in art class. Call for details. Maxin Art Studio, 106 S. Third St., Yakima; 509-494-3850. maxinartstudio.com FUNKY FRIDAY NIGHTS. 7-8:30 p.m. ’80s-themed music and swim. Reduced price: $1 adults, $0.50 youth, $0.75 honored citizen, or $3.25 for the family. Lions Pool, 509 W. Pine St.; 509-575-6046. SECOND FRIDAYS FUN FRIDAY. 6-9 p.m. Dec. 14, Jan. 11. Drop off kids ages 3-10 for a supervised open gym and playtime. Cost: $18 first child, $16 siblings; includes pizza dinner. Reservations not necessary. Selah GymKids, 709 North Park Centre, Selah; 509-698-5437. SATURDAYS OFFICIAL YU-GI-OH! DUELIST KING TOURNAMENT. Starts at 12:30 p.m. Cost: $5. Bring your own deck. Ron’s Coin & Book, 6 N. Third St., Yakima. 509-248-1117. SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE. 7-9:30 p.m. Free drop-in program open to youth ages 7-15, in partnership with Yakima Valley Young Life. Swimming, sports, games and Christian message. Yakima Family YMCA, 5 N. Naches Ave. 509-248-1202 or 509-961-9898.
48.259258.PD.N
SATURDAYS STARTING JAN. 5 ARTS ENCOUNTER. 10 a.m. Four-week art, music and dance classes, with different themes each month. Saturdays, Jan. 5-26: “Le Corsaire,” with pirates set in the Mediterranean; Saturdays, Feb. 2-23: “Lady and the Tramp.” Cost: $80 for four sessions. 11th Avenue Ballet School, 1014 S. 11th Ave., Yakima; 509-457-6791. EVERY OTHER SATURDAY BUILD AND GROW KIDS CLINIC. 10 a.m. Free building workshop for children and parents. Preregistration suggested. Lowe’s, 2500 Rudkin Road, Union Gap; 509-248-3032. lowesbuildandgrow.com
✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Registration for Fall 2013 starts Feb. 1, 2013
“Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” Proverbs 22:5-7
PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
48.256019.PD.N
✔ ✔
Find out more about our:
35
calendar
Decorate a Giant Gingerbread Man!
15
$
12-inch cookie & supplies
No shopping, baking set-up or cleaning!
We provide everything you need for decorating and a box to take your creation safely home.
Just lots of FUN!
Sundays in December
at the Cake Decorator Shoppe Located in the chaLet PLace 5609 Summitview ave., Yakima thecakedecoratorShoPPe.com
48.260176.PDN
You can also order a kit to go!
Call (509) 494-0975 to reserve your cookie!
One-Stop Shopping Destination for Everyone on Your List! • We have thousands of kid’s books in the store (board books through young adult titles) • Special orders arrive in the store in two days or less - perfect for last minute shopping • Great selection of educational toys
48.260166.PDN
• Wide selection of unique Christmas cards, calendars, stationary, puzzles, board games and more Complim enta Gift-Wra ry Saves Timp e!
36
A Place Set Aside for Books & Their Friends
FIRST SATURDAYS HOME DEPOT KIDS WORKSHOP. 9 a.m.-noon. Theme: TBD. Dec. 1, Jan. 5 and Feb. 2. Free drop-in projects for kids 5-12. The Home Depot, 2115 S. First St., Yakima; 509-452-3016. MANIC MATINEE/FIRST SATURDAY THUNDERSTORM. 5 p.m. Manic Thunder Improv Comedy Troupe offers a familyfriendly event for all ages. The hourlong comedy performance includes lots of audience interaction and participation. Dates: Dec. 1, Jan. 5 and Feb. 2. Located upstars in the media center/theatre at Glenwood Square, 5110 Tieton Drive, Yakima.
5629 Summitview • Yakima
965-5830
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
KAILEE LARA
SECOND SATURDAYS GYMKIDS SATURDAY PLAYDATE. 10-11:30 a.m. Dates: Dec. 8 and Jan. 12. Open gym and playtime for children ages 1-5 years, accompanied by a parent. Zip line, popcorn, and other activities. Cost: $10. Selah GymKids, 709 North Park Centre, Selah; 509-698-5437.
48.255122.PD.N
PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
37
Your Pets Our Passion Their Health
calendar
509-966-4162 509-678-4971
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Spay & Neuter
• Ear Cropping
• CO2 Laser Surgery
• Dentistry
• Annual Vaccines
• Microchipping
• Therapy Laser Treatments
Kenneth J. Lust D.V.M.
13555 Summitview Rd. (Corner of Weikel & Summitview) Mon.-Fri. 8am to 5:30pm • Saturday 9am to 12pm Emergency Service Available
www.summitviewvet.com
48.257352.pd.N
MOPS & MOMS CLUB MOMS CLUB OF YAKIMA. 9:30-11 a.m. Daytime activities for stay-at-home mothers and their children. Child care opens at 9:15. Meets at Central Lutheran Church, 1603 W. Yakima Ave., $30 annual dues. Nonmembers are allowed to attend two park days/business meetings before joining. Meets the third Wednesday each month: Dec. 19 and Jan. 16. Contact Tara or Debbie at 509-494-8177. momsclubofyakima@yahoo.com. MOPS — FIRST PRESBYTERIAN. 9-11:15 a.m. Meets the first and third Fridays each month: Dec. 7 and 21, Jan. 4 and 18, Feb. 1. Meeting dues: $5. Child care, food, fellowship, speakers. First Presbyterian Church, 9 S. Eighth Ave., Yakima; 509-248-7940. MOPS — LOWER VALLEY. 9-11:30 a.m. Meets third Fridays each month: Dec. 21, Jan. 18. Memorial Bible Church, 111 Old Stage Way, Gleed. Contact: Angie, 509-945-0617. MOPS — MOUNTAINVIEW CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP. 6-7:30 p.m. Meetings are free; child care provided, through grade 5. Food, fellowship, speakers. Meets the second and fourth Wednesdays each month: Dec. 12, Jan. 9, 23. Mountainview Christian Fellowship, 7105 Alpine Way, Yakima. Contact: Danielle, 509-833-2228. MOPS — NILE VALLEY. 8:45-11:15 a.m. Child care, food, fellowship and speakers. Meets the third Friday each month: Dec. 21, Jan. 18. Nile Valley Community Church, 60 Bedrock Lane, Naches; 509-658-2904. MOPS — YAKIMA EVANGELICAL CHURCH. 9 a.m. Meets the last Wednesday each month: Jan. 30. Yakima Evangelical Church, 7901 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima; 509-965-5216.
We offer classes for ages 3, 4 & Pre-K
48.258461.PD.N
38
CYAN STONE, 5 • PlaydateMagazine.com
December 2012 | January 2013
YAKIMA VALLEY LIBRARY STORY TIMES MOXEE LIBRARY. 255 W. Seattle, Moxee; 509-575-8854. Preschool story time: 11 a.m. Mondays. NACHES LIBRARY. 303 Naches Ave., Naches; 509-653-2005. Preschool story time: 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays; Naches Kids’ Zone, 4 p.m. Thursdays. SELAH LIBRARY. 106 S. Second St., Selah; 509-698-7345. Preschool story time: 10 a.m. Mondays, 1:30 p.m. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. Thursdays; Baby lapsit: 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays; Get Your Craft On!: 3:30 p.m. Thursdays (for families). SOUTHEAST LIBRARY. 1211 S. Seventh St., Yakima; 509-576-0723. Kids’ Club: 3 p.m. Fridays. SUNNYSIDE LIBRARY. 621 Grant, Sunnyside; 509-837-3234. Toddler story time: 11 a.m. Wednesdays; Drop-in crafts, 4 p.m. Thursdays; preschool story time: 10:15 and 10:45 a.m. Fridays; Family movie: 2 p.m. Saturdays. TERRACE HEIGHTS LIBRARY. 4011 Commonwealth Drive, Yakima; 509-4575319. Preschool story time: 10:30 a.m. Thursdays. TIETON LIBRARY. 418 Maple, Tieton; 509-673-2621. Family time: 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays. TOPPENISH LIBRARY. 1 S. Elm, Toppenish; 509-865-3600. Preschool story time: 10:30 a.m. Thursdays. UNION GAP LIBRARY. 3104 S. First St., Union Gap; 509-452-4252. Preschool story time: 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. WAPATO LIBRARY. 119 E. Third St., Wapato; 509-877-2882. WEST VALLEY LIBRARY. 223 S. 72nd Ave., Yakima; 509-9667070. Preschool story time: 11 a.m. Wednesdays. YAKIMA LIBRARY. 102 N. Third St., Yakima; 509-452-8541. Preschool story time: 10:30 a.m. Thursdays. ZILLAH LIBRARY. 109 Seventh St., Zillah; 509-829-6707.
48.255678.PD/N
PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
39
calendar
Quality Licensed Child Care Excellent Staff, great facility, terrific early learning environment. YMCA child care has openings for children 8 weeks-12 years.
Call 972-5251
THURSDAY, NOV. 29SUNDAY, DEC. 1 & DEC. 6-8 “ANNIE.” 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturdays, Nov. 22-24, Nov. 29-Dec. 1 and Dec. 6-8; 2 p.m. matinees Dec. 1 and Dec. 8. See the trials and tribulations of little orphan Annie on stage. Cost: $18.50 adults, $16 children, students and seniors. Warehouse Theatre Company, 5000 W. Lincoln Ave., Yakima; 509-966-0951. SUNDAY, DEC.2 & SUNDAY, DEC. 9 SUNDAY CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION. 1-5 p.m. Two consecutive Sunday sessions. Cost: $75, covers both mother and partner. Memorial Community Education Center, 2506 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima; 509-248-7322. WEDNESDAY, DEC. 5 SUCCESSFUL BREASTFEEDING. 6:30-9 p.m. Cost: $20 for this class only, or part of the $75 Childbirth Preparation class. Memorial Community Education Center, 2506 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima; 509-248-7322.
48.256329.PLD.N
Much of what children learn is driven by vision! AppLE VALLEy EyE CEntEr Dr. Ed LaBissoniere and Dr. Fran Smith • Providing comprehensive eye exams for the whole family.
FrEE InfantSEE screening program. (6-12 months)
We accept Medicare, Medicaid, Group Health and most insurances
Se Habla Español
Medical Eye Care Comprehensive Eye Exams Children's Vision and Contact Lenses Emergency Eye Care
966-8801
applevalleyeyecenter.com 1121 S. 40th Ave., yakima (One block S. of nob Hill) 48.260156.PDN
40
THURSDAY, DEC. 6 BOOT CAMP FOR NEW DADS. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Cost: $20 for this class only, or part of the $75 Childbirth Preparation class. Memorial Community Education Center, 2506 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima; 509-248-7322. SATURDAY, DEC. 7 SATURDAY CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $75, covers both mother and partner. Memorial Community Education Center, 2506 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima; 509-248-7322. TUESDAY, DEC. 11 BABY BASICS. 6:30-9 p.m. Cost: $20 for this class only, or part of the $75 Childbirth Preparation class. Memorial Community Education Center, 2506 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima; 509-248-7322. TUESDAY, DEC. 11 & THURSDAY, DEC. 13 CHILDHOOD EDUCATION CLASSES. 7 p.m. Free for mothers delivering at Family Birth Center. Sunnyside Community Hospital, 1016 Tacoma Ave., Sunnyside; 509-837-1500. WEDNESDAY, DEC. 12 “HOW I BECAME A PIRATE.” 10 a.m. and noon (two shows). Designed for grades K-4, this performance emphasizes the importance of home and family. Part of The Capitol Theatre’s Capitol Kids program. The cost for each ticket is $5. Call 509-853-8000 for more information or go to capitoltheatre.org/Capitolkids.cfm.
AppleValleyEyeCenter.com December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
SATURDAY, DEC. 15 YOUNG AND PREGNANT TEEN CHILDBIRTH PROGRAM. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost: $75, covers mother and partner. Memorial Community Education Center, 2506 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima; 509-248-7322. THURSDAY, JAN. 17 VISION AND POOR PERFORMANCE IN SCHOOL. 7 p.m. Free workshop for parents or teachers who deal with young people who are behind in reading or have trouble with comprehension. The workshop covers vision problems and what can be done to resolve them. Presented by Dr. Benjamin C. Winters. At Washington Vision Therapy Center, 3909 Creekside Loop, Suite 150, Yakima (in Creekside Business Park, adjacent to Pediatric Dentistry). Call 509-654-9256 to RSVP. SATURDAY, JAN. 19 FATHER DAUGHTER WINTER GALA. 5:30 p.m. Dinner, dancing and entertainment, Western style! Hosted by Kiwanis Club of Yakima Downtown. At the Modern Living Building at State Fair Park, 1301 S. Fair Ave., Yakima. For more info, contact Steve Emhoff at 509-453-556 or steve@emhoffgroup. com. dancewithdad.com
PAISLEY RUFF, 4 MONTHS PlaydateMagazine.com
• December 2012 | January 2013
48.260172.PD/N
41
gotcha!
SEND USYOUR BEST! Want your child to be featured on the next Gotcha! page? The deadline for the next issue is Friday, Jan. 11, 2013, by 11:59 p.m. Submit your original photos to sklepach@playdatemagazine.com.
42
“Childhood is the world of miracle or of magic...” — Eugene Ionesco, “Present Past/Past Present”
Isaac Marquez, 14 months, is mesmerized by the magic of Christmas decorations. “I got the idea for the set up using ornament and lights in the background from Pinterest,” says Isaac’s mother, Yvette. Way to be crafty! It looks like Isaac is certainly “Pinterested!”
December 2012 | January 2013
• PlaydateMagazine.com
48.259261.PD/N
48.260180.PDN