October 2012 baystateparent Magazine

OCT. 2012

baystateparent FREE

Massachusetts’

HALLOWEEN COSTUMES FOR A CAUSE

FRIGHTENING FINGER FOODS and more!

AUTUMN FAIRS AND FESTIVALS GUIDE

Women’s Health FRAMINGHAM MOM FIGHTS FOR HER FAMILY HENNA ART EMPOWERS CANCER SURVIVORS HOW A LOCAL MOM TAKES HER WEIGHT LOSS SERIOUSLY Voted Best Parenting Publication in North America 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2010

Premier Magazine For Families Since 1996

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Ladies • Teens • Kids

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An elementary preparatory school that celebrates the individual.

Open House November 4th at 1:00 p.m.

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• Offering Transitional Kindergarten and full day Kindergarten through Grade 6th curriculum.

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• Highly qualified faculty trained to adapt curriculum to your child’s ability.

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4 OCTOBER2012

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"If you are planning for a year, sow rice; If you are planning for a decade, plant trees; If you are planning for a lifetime, educate children."

Chinese Proverb

Now Enrolling 222 Main Street, Acton, MA 01720

978-266-2779 www.BlossomStation.com

Start Your Child Off On the Right Track!

BAYSTATEPARENT 5

our special guest Kris Burke, 44, with Skyler, daughter, 5 ½ of Framingham Captured by Paula Swift Photography www.paulaswift.com

table

18

HALLOWEEN TREATS

They may be too old to trick or treat, but preteens still love Halloween. Here are some tips for foods that will make you giggle and some spooky costumes perfect for a Halloween party.

23

THE SOUND OF MUSIC

38

Most people know Stowe, VT for their skiing, but there is so much to explore on the off season. From the Von Trapp Family Lodge to biking and canoeing in a quaint New England town, a trip up north to Stowe is a great family getaway.

HOW ONE MOM LOST 100 POUNDS

Not only has Melissa Shaw of Millbury lost 100 pounds once, but twice. She is now making health a top priority and is a Weight Watchers’ leader and an avid runner.

the of the home

AUGUST 2012 • VOLUME 17 • NUMBER 4

in every issue 9 10 11 12 13 13

women’s health

advertising directories

DIRTY LAUNDRY: WITH STEPHEN RICH

28 KEEPING KRIS STRONG 30 HEALING ART 33 HEART HEALTH ACT: Go RED

FINALLY FOREVER: JUST THE MAMA

34 FOOD: Powerful Medicine Against Breast Cancer

WELCOME GUESTBOOK

38 LOSING & MAINTAINING 100 POUNDS OR MORE

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS OCTOBER’S CHILD

23 LET’S ROLL: Stowe, VT 24 FIGHT LESS, LOVE MORE 25 JUNK DRAWERS 44 GO THE PLACES YOU’LL GO

48 50 51 54

something special/halloween 15

COSTUME FOR A CAUSE

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18 PRETEEN HALLOWEEN: What A Scream

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Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Familes Since 1996

PARTY PLANNER

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A screening mammogram takes less time than a pedicure.

It’s time to start taking care of your health.

Newton-Wellesley Hospital

The compassionate care you value, with the expertise you expect.

Newton-Wellesley Hospital is the first community hospital to offer tomosynthesis, 3D mammography that provides a clearer image of breast tissue. This technology helps distinguish superimposed tissue from real abnormalities, decreasing the need for further examinations and reducing anxiety for patients.

Schedule your screening mammogram at one of our convenient locations, Newton, Natick or Walpole.

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BAYSTATEPARENT 7

Fall Fun at Davis Family Farm Adventures!

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Visit the web or call for details. ©2012 DFL DMM

8 OCTOBER2012

Welcome I can still remember the phone message that a friend left on my answering machine.

“Jen, I’m fine, I’m at UMass, and you can call me back, but I’m fine.” I immediately knew that she wasn’t fine. How could she be? She was in the hospital.

My heart stopped as I walked across the floor to dial her back on the phone, my mind started thinking, It couldn’t be a bad car accident because she sounded calm on the phone. The walk across the kitchen floor took only seconds, but it seemed endless, and as I dialed I thought that whatever she needs, I’m there.

“Hi, it’s me,” I said with all the strength I could muster, chanting in my head, Please be okay; please be okay. “Are you okay?” “Jen, I’m fine, but I’m in the hospital – I have leukemia.” That day, my world changed. Someone I

was close to and loved had cancer.

As friends, family and co-workers came together, we all joined in her fight to battle cancer.

Whether it was helping to babysit, making dinners, visiting her in the hospital or joining together to pray and comfort each other, we did everything we could to not only support her, but make her battle with leukemia as easy as possible on her and her family.

I had known Carla since college – we both went to school in Worcester and our husbands were in the same fraternity. Carla had always been a friend who was just there for you no matter what. She was easy to be around and always willing to listen and share. That never changed during her battle with cancer. She died in 2006, but her memory lives on in her daughter and husband and all of those who love her.

Out of her struggle, an organization called Carla’s Champions was born, and each year members of the group get together to support the Light the Night Walk in Worcester and other walks around the country.

Carla was so grateful for all those who reached out to her - it spurred her on during her battle.

As you read through our Women’s Health issue this month, you’ll read about a woman who donates her time using Henna art to turn a person’s battle with cancer and the after effects of chemotherapy into beautiful artwork.

You’ll also read about a community banding together to help former Framingham teacher Kris Burke, and her family battle cancer for more than a decade as they struggle financially. Kris has always been the one who others leaned on, but through this experience,

she shares how thankful and grateful she is for the outpouring of support.

Melissa Shaw of Millbury lost more than 100 pounds in the last two years and is a mother of three. She has turned her weight loss experience and expertise into a career – she’s now a Weight Watchers leader in the area and an avid runner who is hoping to help change other people’s lives.

Holistic Health Coach and Yoga Instructor Lisa Mair shared recipes and tips as she helps others learn to be healthier through meditation, yoga and nutrition.

Women’s health is a huge topic to cover, but the overwhelming theme through those featured this month is that, as women and mothers, we need to remember that while we take care of others, we need to take care of ourselves most importantly.

These women inspire us with an inner strength and drive to not only stay healthy for themselves, but for their families. We all want to take care of our children, but these women are champions for both their children and for themselves.

I hope you are as inspired as I am by their stories, so please share what has inspired you to make your own health a top priority. Email letters and comments to editor@baystateparent. com, and we’ll include them in our next issue.

Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Families

baystateparent publisher GARETH CHARTER 508-749-3166 x153 gcharter@holdenlandmark.com editor JENNIFER LUCARELLI 508-749-3166 x 251 editor@baystateparent.com

creative director PAULA MONETTE ETHIER 508-749-3166 x 351 baystateparent@holdenlandmark.com

promotions JENNIFER ANTKOWIAK 508-269-1728 jemsa2@charter.net

graphic designer STEPHANIE MALLARD 508-749-3166 x 351 srenaud@holdenlandmark.com

sales & business development manager STEPHANIE PEARL 774-364-0296 stephaniep@baystateparent.com account executive EMILY RETTIG 774-364-4178 emilyr@baystateparent.com account executive BETH HOFFMAN 774-364-5073 beth@baystateparent.com

contributing writers

Jennifer Lucarelli, editor

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photographers proofreader

WENDY BULAWA AGUDELO MICHELLE CARR BRYAN ETHIER CYNTHIA ENNIS STEVEN KING interns LISA MAIR PAULA SWIFT ALANNA MORIARTY LAURIE PUHN illustrator CHRISTINE QUIRK JILL COLBERT STEPHEN RICH AMANDA ROBERGE MELISSA SHAW presidents KIRK and LAURIE DAVIS BONNIE TOOMEY

baystatestateparent

MEET THE COVER MODELS

101 Water St., Worcester, MA 01604

Kris and Skyler Burke

508-749-3166 www.baystateparent.com campguide.baystateparent.com www.massfieldtrips.com

AGES 5 1/2 AND 44, FRAMINGHAM

baystateparent Inc. is published monthly with a main office at 101 Water Street, Worcester, MA 01604 508-749-3166 Fax 508-749-3165 It is distributed free of charge throughout Massachusetts. www.baystateparent.com • info@baystateparent.com Distribution Agency: Insight Distribution Management 978-728-7785/603-661-8370 • Insightdm@yahoo.com

Family: Her family includes Ben, her husband, and her daughter, Skyler What was it like doing the cover shoot?

Skyler was excited to get out of school early and go to the shoot, so that made it extra exciting. The shoot itself was pretty cool, very friendly, peaceful, easygoing. I had brought wigs and wore a bandana for the first part of the shoot, but then I took it off– it was liberating.

losing yourself in that.

I also find inspiration through nature–today coming back from the court house, I was thinking about how cruddy I was feeling and things going wrong. Then, I took a deep breath and looked at the trees and the sky with big billowy clouds forming. It reminds me to breathe and remember that there’s a lot more going on than what we are. Inspiring.

Where do you find inspiration? My daughter Skyler is my inspiration. Her smile always brightens my day…her youth, vigor, eagerness to find fun, her imagination. We play all of these imaginary games she makes up–it’s great to remember being young and

What advice would you give others?

Every day is really a gift and I try to find the good in every day that comes because I know that I’ve had bad days and good days, and one day it could start going downhill so fast. Every day is a gift, and I have to find inspiration,

Massachusetts' premier magazine for families has earned more than 160 national and regional awards since 2004, including 34 in 2011: paulaswiftphotography.com

beauty and happiness in just being alive.

The beauty of being alive is what we forget with everything else that goes on in our lives.

Enjoy the kids while they’re young and fun.

As a fifth grade teacher I saw just how fast they grow up.

18 Parenting Media Awards 16 New England Newspaper Press Association Awards Including Best Parenting Publication in North America 2004, 2006, 2007 and 2010 BAYSTATEPARENT 9

Join us for our performance performanc November 23-25, 2012 The Hanover Theatre

Cookies & Tea with Clara Limited Seating Available Reservations Required Book your session—$10 12–4:00 PM SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 4TH THE HANOVER THEATRE CALL FOR RESERVATION RESERVATIONS 508.791.3233

GUESTBOOK I’m sorry for the delay in getting this to you, but I wanted to send my sincere thanks for providing the opportunity to take part in your Mother’s Day Giveaway in May 2012.

I entered for the Personal Concierge and won! I was not sure in what way I could utilize her services, but with her help brainstorming, it became clear that my summer family get-together was the perfect way for me to enjoy your gift.

Beth was indispensable with her

assistance before and during my family party and I would not only recommend her to anyone who could use a helping hand (for a party or any project around the house), but I will surely use her services again in the future. Thank you very much!

Sincerely, Laurie Dubay, Worcester Editor’s Note: Laurie Dubay was one of 16 winners of our Sweet 16 Giveaway in May. She won concierge services from Take Your Time Personal Services.

WINNERS

BAW

inc

Baystateparent giveaways are announced at baystateparent.com under “Giveaways� as well as on our Facebook page. We’ve made it easy and quick to enter to win a prize!

Some of our recent prizes and winners include:

BALLET ARTS WORCESTER

EVENT SPONSOR

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OMG!! Thank you so much! My kids are going to love going to KidsFest. It means so much to us!!!

Rebecca Bigwood, Worcester

The Bigwood Family of Worcester won a family four-pack of tickets to KidsFest at Mount Wachusett.

John Bolles, 7, won a family four-pack of tickets to Davis Farmland or Davis MegaMaze for drawing his best maze.

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OPEN HOUSE LISTINGS Oak Meadow Montessori School 2 Old Pickard Lane, Littleton, MA 01460 Sunday, November 4 1:00-4:00 p.m.

Contact: Erin Palmer 978-486-9874 x. 226 oakmeadow.org

Congratulations to the winners. Prizes will be mailed out in October.

Send letters to editor@baystateparent.com Letters will be edited for clarity and length.

Please include your full name and town for publication.

Dexter and SouthďŹ eld Schools 20 Newton Street, Brookline, MA Admissions Open House, Pre-Kindergarten through Class 12 Saturday, October 20 11:00 am - 1:00 pm Contact: Admissions Dept.

617-454-2721 admissions@dexter.org

michelle carr

DIRTYLAUNDRY

with Stephen Rich

CAN’T TAKE THE HEAT IN THE KITCHEN? One night I was home cooking dinner, and there was something strange. At first I could not identify what was strange, so I kept cooking and singing. I’m sure it was Journey.

Then it hit me.

I knew what was off – there was no fighting. I continued with my Little House on the Prairie moment singing, The Wheels in The Sky. Then I realized, OH, MY GOD IN HEAVEN! My 6-year-old “Dirty Dancing Jersey Diva,” was not home from dance class. I forgot to pick her up!

Fortunately, I got the Diva.

Unfortunately, when I returned home there were four fire trucks in my driveway and I apparently left the stove on! Some (including the insurance company) call it negligence. I call it multitasking, whatever.

Needless to say the kitchen is destroyed and has remained in this “Please pardon our appearance” mode for about a year.

So, some people (Big Mamma...my wife) who will remain unnamed, are becoming a bit salty.

I’ll concede that we have plywood floors that look like a stained glass window from a turn of the century church…complete with exquisite colors from the smashed

strawberries, chocolate syrup, and mint ice cream. There have been spills of tuna fish on that floor, and I’ll admit that does not help things. I’ll also admit there have been times that insulation has fallen from our exposed ceiling, and I’ve picked it out of my scrambled eggs.

It’s not been good. But let’s all have a positive attitude here. We’re all rowing on the same boat. You should see Big Mamma when someone knocks on our door – she puts on this Jersey swagger and starts pointing out stuff, all pissed off like a stayat-home mob wife from the Goodfellas.

And do you believe this? “This is how I’ve been living. Look at this,” she says as she points to all the Tupperware piled (stacked and falling) in the bay window.

Then Big Mamma glares at me. Like the Tupperware is some ex-girlfriend of mine on a Facebook friend list!

I don’t get it. Can’t we just look at the bright side of things? Sure the toaster is in the freakin’ bathroom, but you can have a bagel toasting while you pee! (Hell you can even get the bagel as you do that squat walk to find toilet paper…cuz it’s always gone!).

Anyway, it’s getting to the point where it’s my entire fault that it’s not done. When contractors don’t show up when they

say then there’s no nooky that night for me. When a contractor does something incorrectly or leaves a mess, she won’t talk to me. It’s getting bad. The cabinet guy we’ve been waiting for months to finish finally finishes the damn things, and they’re completely wrong. I did not know what to do. I could not tell her, so I made up some story about a flood at his shop (I was afraid she’d freak out and leave me WITH ALL THE KIDS if I said he had to re-make them).

Now work is at a standstill until the cabinets arrive. So to save my marriage and distract Big Mamma I decided to shift the focus to the yard. Easy enough, I thought.

Take some trees down, bring in some dirt, put in sprinklers, plant grass; should be fine. So no one is allowed on the grass seeds. It’s hard because I have four kids and they’re waiting and waiting to use the new back yard. Finally after five weeks – still no grass – I check the sprinklers and they’re not even turned on! (I could not tell Big Mamma, so I said the grass caught a fungus and must have died, “It’s very common,” I said). And to make matters worse, without any grass all this dirt was eroding, and I was losing huge sections of the yard.

So I had a guy come out to pour a concrete retaining wall. It’s great that the guy shows up right away to start the work (with his pick-up truck from 1982 that leaks oil all over my driveway), and we’re all excited to get this done. The concrete truck shows up and all is good except the concrete guy has a disease (and I know all about it because my 10-year-old son suffers from

this annoying disease) people who have it hear what they want to hear and they’re always right! A terrible disease to have!

Also a terrible disease for a concrete guy to have because we ended up with a wall so TALL it can be seen on Google Earth.

And, just like my 10-year-old, the concrete guy turns around and puts blames on someone else! He blames it on my wife and says she talked him into it.

Finally I stopped and I was like wow. I am an idiot. I’m making a complete mess of this house.

First I light my kitchen on fire, and, for a year, it looks like an abandoned summer cottage from a horror film. Now as you pull up the driveway you’re greeted by this towering concrete wall that could serve as a foundation for a skyscraper. Behind that is my beautiful backyard that resembles the dry, dirt landscape of a village in Ecuador. At that point I gave up, went inside and decided to save Big Mamma the aggravation and I opened up an account for her on Match.com.

Dirty Laundry columnist Stephen Rich is a Plymouth father of four. This monthly humor column is about day-to-day life raising kids.

Basically it’s about not being afraid to air out the “dirty laundry” and say it like it is, making the rest of us not feel so alone.

To book comedian Stephen Rich, contact Dawn Christensen at Loretta LaRoche Productions: Dawn@lorettalarocheproductions.com or 508-746-3998, x 15.

BAYSTATEPARENT 11

ALLY FIN EVER R FO

T S JU BY

M E TH

A M A

christine m. quirk

I was almost 9 months old in early January of 1963, when my parents picked me up at Catholic Charities in Boston. Sister Elizabeth Anne, the nun working in the adoption unit, handed me to my mother and said, “Just treat her like she’s yours, and everything will be fine.�

In the car on the way home, my mother said to my father, “Why wouldn’t we treat her like she’s ours? She is ours. It doesn’t make any sense to pretend we gave birth to her.�

And so, with this philosophy, I always

knew I was adopted.

I didn’t realize until I was well into my 20s that my parents were way ahead of their time. It was an era before open and interracial adoptions existed. There was a stigma against unmarried, pregnant women, and adoption agencies took care to match an infant to its new parents as well as they could. In my case, I look a great deal like my father’s side of the family. It wouldn’t have been very difficult to swear the adults to secrecy and invent my mother’s pregnancy.

But what my mother had, which other

families did not, was my Aunt Mary. Aunt Mary was Mum’s oldest and dearest friend, and when they were teenagers, like a bad Lifetime movie, she found her adoption papers in the attic. She was understandably devastated, and it took her many years to forgive her parents.

So for me, my adoption was no more important than the color of my eyes or the fact that I didn’t like beets. My parents were just my parents. It didn’t make much difference that we weren’t connected by DNA. I knew they’d done right by me.

Mum and I had always been close, but I didn’t expect we would have this aspect of motherhood in common. I expected I’d meet a nice guy, get married and get pregnant.

But through a series of circumstances, I met a nice guy, we got married, and we ended up at the Department of Children and Families. In early October of 2005, we met our children at their foster home.

I called my mother that night and said, with my eyes and my heart full, “I love them. I love them already.� “Of course you do,� she said. “They’re your children.�

In Mum, I had the best of examples. I had unconditional love and acceptance – including the acknowledgment that the way I became her daughter was bound to come up now and again. She spoke respectfully of my birthmother and reminded me to say a special prayer for her on Mother’s Day and my birthday. I know there are things my kids will want to know that I can’t tell them – and I know they have a right to that information, and that it has nothing to do with me.

I met my birthmother when I was 28. As I

embarked on my search, I asked Mum if she was going to be offended. “Sweetheart,� she said, “You could find these folks and move in with them, and never speak to me again, and refer to me as Mrs. MacKinnon, and guess what?

I’m still your mother. But she is too, and she’s probably wondered about you all these years, so if you want to find her, you should.�

My search took me about six months.

When my kids decide to look – and I’m sure they will – the Internet will make it easy for them. Their birth mother is on Facebook, and they know her name. I’ve peeked at her page, and from what I can see, she’s still struggling with the demons which impacted her ability to parent. But miracles happen, and I sincerely hope it happens for her. Mostly, when I think of her, I’m sorry she’s missing out on our fabulous kids.

My kids are getting to an age where they’re trying to figure out who they are and where they fit. Their dad and I tell them all the time how amazing they are – and while it’s true, I worry if they’re wondering if they’re so amazing, why didn’t their birth mom try harder in her own life?

I get that. I remember the challenge of wondering what parts of me came from genetics and whether or not that mattered.

I remember being full of questions and wonder – why did I love words and books so? Why have I always struggled with my weight? I remember being completely stymied by an elementary school family tree assignment, simply because the teacher used the term “blood,� as in, “Your family tree should consist of your blood relatives.�

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Call for an appointment.

New Horizon Karate in West Boylston

My relatives, of course, did not share my blood, but they were still my relatives, and I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t actually know anyone who was blood related to me. Mix all that up with pre-pubescence, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a perplexing time.

Because my mother was who she was, I have an idea of what to do, and because I share the adoption experience with my kids, I understand those feelings are real and important and necessary.

A few years back, my daughter referred to her â&#x20AC;&#x153;realâ&#x20AC;? mother, and I asked her, curious, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Well, if sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your real mother, who am I?â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Silly,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re just the mama.â&#x20AC;?

Just the mama. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take it, my love. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take it..

OCTOBERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;SCHILDREN

Mia and Julian

This pair of loving siblings longs to live in the same home. Twelve year old Mia is very proud of her Puerto Rican and Dominican heritage.

She is an outspoken and honest girl who loves participating in church and youth group activities. She is animated, spunky and does well academically with the support of an individual education plan (IEP).

Julian, 15, is kind, polite, intelligent and serious.

He is an honor roll studen who is interested in pursuing automotives or culinary arts. Julian knows that he would excel at something â&#x20AC;&#x153;hands on.â&#x20AC;? His favorite subject is math and he enjoys the escape that reading provides.

This brother-sister duo is legally free for adoption and would bring a lot of joy to a family. Mia and Julian would love a mother and a father who will keep them safe, reunite them and help maintain relationships with their older sisters.

For more information about Mia and Julian, or the adoption process in general, please contact Department of Children and Families Adoption Supervisor Marilyn Crowley at (508) 929-2008.

The DCF Adoption Office in Worcester holds monthly informational meetings about the adoption process. The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 10 from 6-7:30 p.m. The office is located at 121 Providence St. (the old St. Vincent Hospital Building) on the third floor.

Please call (508) 929-2143 to register.

Christine Quirk is a Central Mass freelance writer and the mom of two children.

CIRCLEOFFRIENDS Adoption Events October 2012:

A Look at Adoption. Saturday, Oct. 24 at 45 Lyman St., #2, Westborough. 2 to 5:30 p.m. Adoption Community of New England, Inc. (ACONE) will hold an informational seminar for those interested in learning about adoption education needs, presented by experienced people in the ďŹ eld of adoption and will also include an unbiased introduction to all aspects of adoption. Presentation and printed materials include: making the decision to adopt, starting the process and choosing an agency, types of adoptions available, domestically and internationally, updated agency lists with their programs and status, what to expect in the home study process, the language of adoption and resources for singles and those over 40. Registration is $25 per person for members or $30 per person for non-members, payable to ACONE.

BECKER

A COLLEGE STUDENT AND A FULL-TIME PARENT!

Support Group for Waiting Parents. Saturday, Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to noon. The Adoption Community of New England Inc. will hold a meeting for anyone who is in the waiting stage of their adoption process.

Each session focuses on a speciďŹ c issue and allows time for open discussion. This is a professionally facilitated meeting that will provide a great opportunity for meeting and sharing. These program is free, but please RSVP by the Monday before the meeting.

Boston Adoption Informational Meetings-DCF. The Mass. Department of Children and Families (DCF)Boston holds these meetings every 3rd Wednesday of the month from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at DCF Boston, 451 Blue Hill Ave., Dorchester. Learn how you can change the future of a child in need by becoming a foster or adoptive parent with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families. Contact Marsha Donovan, LCSW at 617-989-9209. No registration is required.

The Adoption Option, presented by Jordanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Furniture. Sunday, Oct. 21, from 9 to 11 a.m., 50 Walkerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Brook Drive, Reading. The event is for anyone interested in adoption from foster care. Families new to considering adoption can learn about the adoption process, speak to social workers, and hear from experienced families who have adopted. Home studied families will have the opportunity to enjoy activities with children waiting for adoption.

Please submit Novemberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adoption-related events

by Wednesday, Oct. 5 to be included in the November edition of baystateparent. Events submitted after the 5th of the month will be included in the online calendar only. To submit an event, visit baystateparent.com and click â&#x20AC;&#x153;Calendarâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Submit an Event.â&#x20AC;?

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www.becker.edu 508.373.9500

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find us on

Visit us at www.shrewsburychildren.com

Celebrating 30 Years of Caring Now Enrolling All Age Groups Now Enrolling Preschool And Pre-Kindergarten

Costumes for a Cause

Infant (from 12 wks) • Toddler • Preschool Pre-Kindergarten • Full Day Kindergarten

By Jennifer Lucarelli

Conveniently located in Shrewsbury 138 North Quinsigamond Ave. • 508-755-3922 When Merritt Friedman was handing out candy for Halloween in 2004, she kept seeing kids come to her door wearing Mardi Gras beads and no other costumes.

“We lived near low-income housing, and it became obvious that someone had donated the beads to the kids, so they could wear them on Halloween as costumes,” she said. “That’s when it struck me that between my boyfriend and me and all the friends and colleagues we knew at work, we could get together enough spare costumes to donate to these kids the next year.”

That was in 2004. Merritt was working at Bank of America. “We started with bins in the bank locations and gathered 100 costumes that year,” she said. “There was a Fall Fest near where we lived at the time the week before Halloween and the next year, we had 30 kids come by to pick out their Halloween costumes.”

“We lived near low-income housing, and it became obvious that someone had donated the beads to the kids, so they could wear them on Halloween as costumes.”

“I was inspired by the children who came and really appreciated picking out the costumes,” Merritt said. “It was like the starfish story–one day a girl was walking on the beach and saw thousands of starfish laying on the beach, so she started to throw them back into the water one by one. An old man came up and said to her, ‘You’ll never help all of these starfish,”

and the little girl picked up one of the starfish, threw it back into the water and said, ‘I made a difference with that one.’”

Through the years, the costume drive grew and when she returned to live in Massachusetts with her husband (her boyfriend at the time when they started the first costume drive), they started From the Pumpkin Patch, which has now grown to give more than 2,000 costumes annually to children in Massachusetts.

“In the last three years, we’ve teamed up with the Lowell Memorial Auditorium and handed out thousands of costumes to kids that wait in line for up to five hours,” she said. “Schools in the area like Newton, Concord and Hamilton-Wenham have held costume drives to gather new and gently used costumes, but places like local churches and local schools can also get bins for donations.”

She says any location can be a drop off area (a business, school, or you can even start a donation drop-off at your home for friends and family).

Costumes need to be collected by midOctober so they can be distributed on Oct. 27 this year. “Our goal is 3,000 costumes this year, so we’re hoping to make this grow and help as many kids as we can this Halloween.”

For more information about doing a costume drive or to donate gently used or new costumes to the Pumpkin Patch, visit their website at www. fromthepumpkinpatch.org or email merritt@fromthepumpkinpatch.org.

Volunteers are also needed to help distribute costumes at the Oct. 27 event in Lowell.

October 12 & 13, 2012 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. $5 Mass Audubon members $6 Non-members • $8 at the door At sundown, the sanctuary will be transformed into a magical enchanted forest.

Our resi-dent spirits, primarily native wildlife, will delight visitors young and old on this special romp through “Boo” Meadow Brook. During your walk, you will have a chance to learn about some of the most fascinating creatures of the forest.

Arrive anytime between 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. (Last tour leaves at 8:30 p.m.)

Held rain or shine. Festivities held indoors if it is raining.

Call 508-753-6087 for more information and to register!

Broad Meadow Brook Conservation Center and Wildlife Sanctuary 414 Massasoit Road, Worcester, MA 01604 • bmbrook@massaudubon.org

+DOORZHHQ 1LJKW +LNH DQG +D\ULGH October 20, 2012 • 6 – 8 pm • Rain date: October 21 $5 members, $7 nonmembers; children $2 members, $3 nonmembers Experience the sounds of night on a guided hike through the fields and woods.

Then enjoy a hayride with friends and family. Meet our resident vulture, do a craft and taste some goodies.

Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary 113 Goodnow Rd., Princeton, MA 01541 • 978-464-2712

www.massaudubon.org BAYSTATEPARENT 15

CAPTURED

courtesy of caitlyn clark photography

Trick or Treat MASKED PRINCESS: Alexis Gemme, 3, of Worcester, loves dressing up for Halloween.

CLIMBING UP: Matthew Ritchey, 7, dresses up as a pirate and his sister Ava, 5, both of Londonderry, NH, tries to climb a tree with cat-like reflexes.

LITTLE MUNCHKIN: Katie Hudson, 3, of Plymouth, loves donuts this much.

16 OCTOBER2012

WHERE’S THE CAT IN THE HAT?: These mischievous guys are Brandon, 2, (Thing 1) and Benjiman, 1, (Thing 2) of Rutland. Hope they don’t cause too much trouble on Halloween.

ARRR MATEY: Ashlyn Giroux of Chelmsford, 18 months, is ready to defend her pirate ship and find her treasure.

Leominster Events!

Leominster is the place to be this holiday season.

Please join us for the following events Sholan Farms 11th Annual Scarecrow Festival

HAPPY PUMPKIN: Samuel Christian Tangorra, 1, of Amesbury, is the most excited child as he gets ready for Halloween this year. Not only will he be trick or treating, but he’ll be celebrating his birthday on Halloween.

Happy Birthday, Sam!

IT’S-A ME: Xander Rosa, 6, of Hubbardston, is ready to battle Bowser and save Princess Peach on Halloween this year.

October 6th (rain date October 7th) 10am-4pm.

1125 Pleasant Street, Leominster. You bring the clothes we supply armature, stuffing, and decorations! Scarecrow Armature and Hay available at the farmstand beginning Thursday Oct 4. ($5.00 Personal/Family/Non-Profit & $25.00 Business Entries) All contest entries must be submitted by 2pm Oct 6. Applications available at the farmstand or on line at www.sholanfarms.com.

Other activities include U-Pick Apples, Build Your Own Scarecrows, Scarecrow Contest (Cash Prizes), Free Hayrides, Music - DJ Earl, Children’s Games, Petting Zoo, Great Food, Pumpkins For Sale, Cider Pressing.

Haunting of Barrett Park!

Let the frights begin! Barrett Park’s annual haunted trail comes to life every October. Dare to enter the haunted woods of Barrett Park, where ghosts, ghouls and creatures of every kind wait for you on the scariest night of the year. We guarantee you’ll have a terrifying time! Not recommended for children under 10.

Friday October 19th, Saturday October 20th, Friday October 26th & Saturday October 27th, 7pm-11pm (ticket sales stop at 10pm) Tickets are $10 per person. Check us out on Facebook under: The Haunting of Barrett Park.

Halloween Parade!

October 27th 2:00-4:00pm Downtown Leominster (rain date October 28th) Costume parade and trick-or-treat at downtown businesses.

SCAREDY CAT: Nicole Sarmiento, 8, of Worcester, gets a bit scared of a black rat.

Festival of Trees!

Visit Leominster City Hall between November 26th and December 9th for one of the largest and most spectacular festivals of trees in New England. View and vote for your favorite tree and if you really like one bid on it!

Winter Stroll & Tree Lighting!

A GALAXY FAR, FAR AWAY: Haley, Courtney and Jacob Lawrence of Lancaster are ready to take on Jedi knights and evil witches as well as ghosts and goblins this Halloween.

LITTLE LADYBUG: Katie Farley, 20 months, of Middleboro gets ready to Trick or Treat on her first Halloween.

CAPTURED: bsp is looking for photos of football and Fall for our November issue. Email photos to editor@baystateparent.com by October. 5th. Don’t forget to include your child’s name, age, town and where the photo was taken.

December 1st 2:00-5:00pm. Downtown Leominster. Stroll through Leominster’s downtown area for an afternoon of holiday nostalgia. There will be a parade, activities galore, chestnut roasting, and of course Santa!

For more information on these and other events, please call the Mayor’s Office (978) 534-7500 and visit www.leominsterevents.com BAYSTATEPARENT 17

PRETEEN HALLOWEEN HALLOWEEN:

What A Scream PAULA MONETTE ETHIER, CREATIVE DIRECTOR • STEPHANIE MALLARD, ASSISTANT TO CREATIVE DIRECTOR • STEVEN KING, PHOTOGRAPHER • JENNIFER LUCARELLI, MODELS PROVIDED BY JOHN ROBERT POWERS, BOSTON • HAIR & MAKEUP STYLED BY TONY & GUY HAIR ACADEMY, WORCESTER

HAND DELIVERED 18 OCTOBER2012

THE EYES HAVE IT

WHEEL OUT THE MUMMIFIED DRINKS

WEREWOLF, KEVIN SPIRO, 9, BOSTON

BAT-TANISTA, SHAUNA JING, 13, WELLESLEY

CANDY APPLES

WEEN EEN::

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MUMMIFIED PIZZAS Turn to page 21 for directions on how to throw this

UCARELLI, EDITOR

HEAD WAITER, ANTHONY KEARNS, 9, WESTWOOD

CAMPFIRED WITCH’S BREW & BROOM

AHLAM KHALIL, 9, PROVIDENCE

FINGER FOOD

screaming party!

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222 Harrington Way, Worcester, MA 01604 508.929.2700

Kids costumes starting $ at just 9.99!

Visit us at www.iparty.com to shop online, view our complete sales circular and to ďŹ nd a store near you!

20 OCTOBER2012

continued from page 19

PRETEEN HALLOWEEN HALLOWEEN::

What A Scream!

As kids get older, they may not feel like trick or treating, so how can you celebrate Halloween with your tweens and teens? How about a backyard Halloween party?

We compiled some treats, costumes and party decorations that are perfect for that backyard party or even an indoor spooky celebration. All costumes cost less

than $10 to put together and the treats and goodies were made with easy to find ingredients from around the house.

Here are the recipes for a Halloween for young and old alike:

Halloween Treats: HAND DELIVERED • Black Knit Gloves • Green Styrofoam Florist Base • Cotton Batting • Napkins • Spider Rings • Plastic Silverware

THE EYES HAVE IT • Small, Hard Rolls • Meatballs • Green Olives Take small hard rolls and hollow them out. Place one meatball inside and top with olive halves for the eyes.

FINGER FOOD

Take one of the black knit gloves and fill them with cotton batting. Shape the fingers and pull the glove over the foam base. Roll up the napkins and use the spider rings for holders. Place the rolled napkins in between the fingers.

• Pretzel Rods • Pumpkin Seeds • Green Chocolate Melts

WEREWOLF Take faux fur and place it around your werewolf’s wrist under his sleeves. Secure with string. Put some faux fur around his neck.

Wear regular clothes with a leather or denim jacket.

Gel hair and add makeup for the scary effect.

Take pretzel rods and break into different lenghts. Spoon on melted chocolate on half of the pretzel (it looks better if its not perfect). Take a pumpkin seed and place it on the top of the pretzel rod like a fingernail while it is still warm. Put it in the refrigerator to harden the chocolate.

Take second glove and fill with cotton batting and place over foam base.

Shape the fingers, but sew some of them into position. Place silverware between fingers that are sewn.

WHEEL OUT THE MUMMIFIED DRINKS Take an old wheel barrel and fill with ice (maybe even dry ice). Take each soda bottle and wrap gauze around bottle leaving spaces for eyes. Use a dab of hot glue to attach each end of gauze. Take googly eyes and hot glue them to the bottle. Add straws with a spider ring to hold together.

Costumes:

BAT-TANISTA Wear black clothes with black gloves.

Take a piece of black material and cut it the length of each sleeve.

Cut triangles into the fabric leaving 2 inches at the top for easy attaching.

Attach the fabric by tacking it to the sleeve of a black shirt.

Buy a crown decorated with spiders etc. at a local costume store.

SKULL TRAY WITH CANDY APPLES • Apples • Green Chocolate Candy Melts • Black Candy Bugs • Plastic Forks • Plastic Skull • Plastic Tray

HEAD WAITER CAMPFIRED WITCH’S BREW & BROOM • Small Hard Rolls • String Cheese • Chili • Baggie Ties • Breadsticks Take a hard roll and hollow out the center.

Fill it with chili. Cut up pieces of a breadstick for the campfire. Place roll with chili on top of breadsticks.

Use a breadstick for the broom. Take string cheese and cut in half. Hollow out a little of one side so that it will sits nicely on the breadstick. Before attaching take paring knife and cut slits on each piece leaving 1/8-1/4 inch on top to create bristles. Place cheese around one end of breadstick and attach with bread tie.

CUPCAKE FALLS ON WITCH • Devil’s Food Cake Mix, of course!

• Green Frosting • Aluminum Foil Cupcake Wrappers • Black Licorice Sticks • Red Licorice Shoe Strings • Swedish Fish • Toothpicks Cut In Half • Black Licorice Wheels Take Devil’s Food cupcake mix and make them according to the package. Bake them in aluminum foil tins. Frost them with green frosting. Cut black licorice sticks in half and use for the legs. Wrap them with red licorice shoe strings for the socks. Take red Swedish fish and attach them to the leg for the foot with a toothpick. Take a licorice wheel and cut a small piece of the black licorice stick (at one end cut into a point) place in the middle of the wheel to form the witch’s hat. Put the legs down first on a plate, place the frosted cupcake upside down on top of the legs and place the hat on top.

Take apples and dip them in melted chocolate and roll them in black candy bugs. Use forks as stems. Cool in the refrigerator until hard. Use a small plastic skull and hot glue it to plastic tray.

Your head waiter will need a sports jacket and white buttom down dress shirt. Get a funky bowtie at a local Halloween shop.

Add glasses with eyebrows and get a fake mustache for his upper lip.

Take a piece of cheese cloth and add some blood stains with red paint or brewed coffee.

Add a plastic tray with a plastic skull glued onto it.

MUMMIFIED PIZZAS • English Muffins • Spaghetti Sauce • Fresh Mozzarella Cheese • Green Olives Cut an English muffin in half and top with spaghetti sauce. Take the fresh mozzarella and cut with thin slices to look like mummy wrappings.Cut green olives in half for the eyes of the mummy.

MAD SCIENTIST Get a lab coat (borrow it if possible).

Buy nerd glasses and use a pair of rubber gloves.

We bought a gauze-like scarf at a dollar store.

Wear fun tights of boots.

Have fun with hair and makeup.

Rent some scary movies (age appropriate)

and let the fun begin!

If you have ideas for a great Halloween party, email us at editor@baystateparent.com.

BAYSTATEPARENT 21

October Fairs & Festivals: jill colbert illustrator

Fall Cider Festival. 140 Turnpike Rd., Westborough. Sat., Oct. 6. Julio’s Liquors hosts their first cider fest this year with free tastings for anyone 21 years of age and older. Expect to find at least 50 different products available for sample, but as always, the folks at Julio’s will limit the amount of tastings any one person samples. juliosliquors.com.

The Trustees of Reservations Fall Harvest Celebration, Doyle Community Park & Center on Lindell Avenue, Leominster. Sat., Oct. 6. This free festival and harvest celebration is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. thetrustees.org.

Maynard Community Fest, Downtown Maynard. Sat., Oct. 6, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

More than 100 vendors, family entertainment and food booths take over downtown Maynard for the annual afternoon event. assabetvalleychamber.org/ communityevents.asp.

Newburyport Fall Harvest Festival. Market Square, Newburyport. Sun. & Mon., Oct. 7 & 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.business. newburyportchamber.org. Enjoy great live music, art, fine crafts, food from Newburyport’s best restaurants. Admission is free.

Boston Local Food Festival. Atlantic Avenue and Milk Street, Boston. Sun., Oct. 7, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.bostonlocalfoodfestival.com. The festival provides opportunities for local food-related businesses, initiatives and nonprofits to share their products, services and programs. Over 100 vendors and exhibitors and at least 20 stakeholder groups participate in the festival each year.

Harvest Festival & Benefit for Emerson Hospital Pediatric Care, Concord. Sat., Oct. 13, noon to 4 p.m. An afternoon of games and activities, food and drink, live music by Boston Road Bluegrass, pony rides and giveaways including gift certificates for family activities and restaurants. verrillfarm.com.

Wellfleet Oyster Festival. Town Center, Wellfleet. Sat. & Sun., Oct. 13 & Oct. 14, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.wellfleetoysterfest.org. The annual Wellfleet OysterFest is a two-day celebration of the town’s famous oysters and its shellfishing traditions. Wellfleet’s town center comes alive for this street party that brings together locals and 22 OCTOBER2012

visitors alike for a weekend full of food, art, music, fun and games. All food and retail items priced individually. All activities for children are free.

EcoTarium Great Pumpkin Fest 2012, Worcester. Sat., Oct. 20, noon to 9 p.m. More than a thousand carved and lit pumpkins will be on display as part of the afternoon and evening family event. Also offered are free hayrides, train rides, digital planetarium shows, games, crafts, animal encounters, Halloween science tricks and pumpkincarving demonstrations. $15 per person, $12 EcoTarium members, children younger than 2 are free. ecotarium.org.

Austin Liquors Fall Beer Festival, Shrewsbury. Sat., Oct. 20, 1 to 4 p.m. With more than 30 beers from as local as Worcester to around the country, don’t miss this tasting event in the store. RSVP is recommended. austinliquors.com.

Wachusett Mountain AppleFest, Princeton.

Sat. & Sun., Oct. 20 & 21. The weekend long event includes craft exhibitors, a farmers’ market, music, Oktoberfest-themed food and family entertainment. The SkyRide offers lift rides with views of fall foliage. A 5K cross-country race across the mountain will be held as part of the event on Sunday, Aug. 21. wachusett.com.

Harvest Festival, Sturbridge Town Common, Sturbridge. Sat. & Sun., Oct. 20 & 21, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This year marks 23 years of local crafters, artisans, specialty food vendors and farmers with fresh produce coming together on the Sturbridge Town Common and the grounds of the Publick House Historic Inn for the family event.

Don’t miss the scarecrow contest, applepie contest or the Local Idol singing contest. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sturbridge Town Common, Main St., Sturbridge. cmschamber.ning.com/page/harvest-festival.

Applefest. Wachusett Mountain, 499 Mountain Road, Princeton. Sat. & Sun., Oct. 20 & Oct. 21, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Applefest features more than 75 craft fair and farmer’s market booths, family entertainment, a scenic foliage skyride to the summit, a mountainside barbecue, pony and hay rides, clowns, a climbing wall and jugglers and musicians for kids. www.wachusett.com.

Head of Charles Regatta. Charles River, Boston.

Sat. & Sun., Oct. 21 & Oct. 22, races start at 8 a.m. each day. Since its inception in 1965, The Head Of The Charles Regatta® has attracted hundreds of thousands of rowers to the banks of the Charles River.

Contact regatta@hocr.org for more information about the race. hocr.org/the-2012-regatta/ Bluegrass and Brews, Nashoba Winery, Bolton.

Sun., Oct. 21, noon to 5 p.m. Hand-crafted microbrews pavilion and bluegrass music by Southern Rail are the focus of the annual festival at Nashoba Winery. Cider donuts, caramel apples and barbecue food will be available for purchase. Tours and sampling of the winery will also be offered. Free. nashobawinery.com.

Harvest Festival, 24 Mulberry St., Worcester.

Sat., Oct. 27, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Our Lady of Mount Carmel Saint Ann Parish hosts a Breakfast with the Witches at 9 a.m. followed by vendors selling knitted goods and fall treats including candied apples and pies. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. A Halloween party and Haunted House with games, refreshments, costume parade and prizes will happen after the festival from 4-6 p.m.

Boston Book Festival, Boston. Sat., Oct. 27.

Keynote speakers by renowned authors including Lemony Snicket who wrote “A Series of Unfortunate Events,” workshops on writing for a variety of genres, and a street fair with exhibitors ranging from publishers to art organizations. bostonbookfest.org.

Great New England BBQFest, Princeton. Sat. & Sun., )ct. 27 & Oct. 28, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Join Wachusett Mountain for their third annual BBQFest featuring a BBQ, crafters, a farmers’ market and entertainment benefiting the Greg Hill Foundation.

Advance admission is $8 adults, $4 kids; at the gate, $10 adults, $6 kids. wachusett.com.

Ongoing Festivals: Topsfield Fair. Route 1, Topsfield. www.topsfieldfair. org. The fair is going on through Oct. 8. The Topsfield Fair is celebrating its 192nd year and is located on the former Treadwell Farm on Route 1. The fair includes extensive animal and farm exhibits as well as family entertainment. Weekday tickets are $11 and weekend tickets are $15. Children under 8 are free.

King Richard’s Faire. 235 Main St., Carver.

Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 21, from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. www.kingrichardsfaire.net.

Entertainment, exciting rides and skilled games abound on the enchanting 80-acre site of King Richard’s Faire.

Hundreds of talented entertainers perform non-stop throughout the day. Admission is $27 for adults and $15 for children. Children under 4 are free.

SoWa Open Market. 500 Harrison Ave., Boston.

Sundays through Oct. 28, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.sowaopenmarket.com. Enjoy interesting, friendly people, arts and foods at this open market that has many rare finds. Parking is $5 per car in a lot near the market and admission is free to the market.

LETâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;SROLL

STOWE, VT on the off-season jennifer lucarelli

stoweareaassociation www.gostowe.com

BY

s Stowe, Vermont may be most famous for its skiing and snow sports, but one of the best times to visit the northern town is during the fall.

With the leaves already changing, Stowe offers picturesque views of mountains and valleys and a quaint downtown with a general store, ice cream shop and a great place to walk around.

Another great feature of Stowe is the paved bike path that goes from downtown more than 5 miles to the Innsbruck Inn. It follows fields and a large stream with waterfalls and even goes through covered bridges.

There are benches along the way to stop and enjoy the scenery or to just grab a drink. My son just learned to ride with no training wheels, so we took our first family bike ride there. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfect to run, walk or bike ride as a family or by yourself.

With countless inns and bed and breakfasts, Stowe also boasts a famous family that settled here after their singing career brought them from Austria to the mountains of Vermont. The von Trapp

Family Lodge is located just outside the center of Stowe and is still an inn and restaurant as well as a great place to learn how the family escaped capture from the Germans in the 1940s and sang their way to and around America.

The Sound of Music was based on the familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story and there is still a rich tradition of musical performances in Stowe. In an attempt to raise money for the North Country Animal League, a Sound of Music sing-a-long took place in a residentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s backyard. We brought the kids and they enjoyed singing along to the famous tunes.

My husband did say I sang a bit off-key, but it was fun to be part of a tradition in Stowe.

Another local find is the Ben & Jerryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ice Cream Factory located just outside Stowe in Waterbury, VT. The factory tour de-mystifies how they make their ice cream, and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tell anyone, but their secret ingredient to making their ice cream taste so good is less air in the ice cream.

At the end of the tour, each visitor gets to sample ice cream. One of my kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; favorite

stops was the ice cream flavor graveyard located behind the playground. Flavors like Peanut Butter and Jelly failed miserably in 1998 and 1999. According to its gravestone, â&#x20AC;&#x153;An unbeatable duo, yet it somehow managed to flop in a cone, so we stuck to the sammich.â&#x20AC;?

It was great to see what worked and what didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t when it came to ice cream making.

In addition to ice cream, the Cold Hollow Cider Mill is located in Stowe and has extensive apple products for every apple lover. They also offer maple syrup products locally made as well. And, for the donut lover, yes, they have cider donuts. There are antique cider presses and they offer a tour to show how they make their local products.

They also have homemade fudge and cider jelly.

There are even local wineries like Boyden Valley Winery of Cambridge and Grand View Winery of East Calais that has a local store just across from the cider mill.

There is also a local wine and cheese shop called Mountain Cheese and Wine that

can pair your favorite wine with cheese and crackers.

A glass blowing factory is also located off the main drag known as Mountain Road.

Little River HotGlass Studio & Gallery has a gallery of glass blown pieces as well as a demonstration of glass blowing for visitors to see.

Local antique shops line Mountain Road as well as galleries with paintings and unique art pieces.

And on the north end of Stowe is Mount Mansfield, which boasts the first ski patrol in the world, and during the off-season, visitors can hike the mountain or take a gondola ride up to the top where you can dine at the Cliff House Restaurant yearround.

And at the bottom of the mountain is an alpine slide for kids and grownups alike to enjoy.

For more information about visiting Stowe, VT, visit www.gostowe.com.

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BAYSTATEPARENT 23

FIGHTLESS...LOVEMORE

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NEGOTIATING

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a lawyer, couples mediator and self-help author, people turn to me for my expert relationship advice. They assume that because I have all the answers, I must have a perfect marriage myself. The truth is that I have a happy marriage with good days and those less-than-perfect days that require me to put my own communication advice into practice.

You see, conflict is normal and expected, especially for parents, but how we choose to respond to it can either destroy or build love. For example, there was a time some years ago when I had a Chinese food takeout awakening: My husband and I are a great team, but at times (like all couples) we were no match for the demands of our infant son. Stress from a little one can wear down anyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s patience and test any marriage.

It happened after I had a tiring day of work, and my husband had his usual highpressure day of work. The evening arrived and we fell into our typical routine.

Our 11-month-old son was on the verge of walking and he was trying to climb everything in sight. One of us, therefore, needed to pay very close attention to him at all times to make sure he was safe. As usual, it was me who ended up being on surveillance duty. My husband was nearby, but somehow I was the one â&#x20AC;&#x153;in charge.â&#x20AC;? We had never verbally agreed to this division of power. It just happened.

When I would use the bathroom or make a phone call, I had a nagging guilty feeling

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that I had to rush back to my duties.

On this seemingly uneventful night, we ordered take-out Chinese food and my husband announced that he would go pick it up. As I was left stranded at home, again, I became angry. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Darn it, I want to get out of the house for 20 minutes to get the take-out! I want to do the errands!â&#x20AC;? But I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t say this to my husband because it felt wrong. After all,

laurie puhn

he was only trying to be helpful by doing the errand. And so I slept on it.

By the next morning I was prepared for a difficult conversation. I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t blame my husband for the situation; I had tacitly agreed to it. And the truth is, how could he know what I wanted if I never said it? Now was the time to re-negotiate our evening parenting responsibilities. The de facto parenting split, 95 percent me, 5 percent him, was not acceptable. I took my own advice as a family mediator and revealed my feelings without blaming him. I told him that I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t asking for him to be in charge all of the time or even half of the time. I just needed him to spend a portion of each night as the truly responsible party, so I could have a chance to truly relax or pick up the takeout, knowing our son was well taken care of.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not kidding when I tell you this: From that day forward, after our â&#x20AC;&#x153;child care negotiation,â&#x20AC;? my husband stepped up to the plate. He created fun little games with our son that they play every night. They have their own sayings and jokes. When our son needed his diaper changed during the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Daddy play period,â&#x20AC;? my husband would do it, without yelling for my help. As the days wore on, the nighttime fun turned into the bedtime routine, which my husband still does three years later. With a second child in the mix, Daddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s participation is even more valuable.

My suggestion: donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to ask for what you want. Re-balancing expectations, child care and household chores should be an annual event, at the very least. I offer simple tips to negotiate with your spouse in chapter 14 of my book, Fight Less, Love More, now out in paperback. Use the tips, and your own wisdom, to speak up with the goal of finding a solution, and you may find that your entire family is better off, for years to come.

Laurie Puhn is a Harvard-educated lawyer, couples mediator, and bestselling author of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fight Less, Love More: 5-Minute Conversations to Change Your Relationship Without Blowing Up or Giving In,â&#x20AC;? who frequently appears on CNN, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good Morning America,â&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Early Showâ&#x20AC;? to offer relationship advice.

Visit her at www.fightlesslovemore.com

JUNK DRAWERS

A LITTLE LIT OF THIS, A LITTLE OF THAT GET YOUR BLING ON

BIKE HELMETS A NO-BRAINER As the nice weather continues into the fall, there are more and more bicyclists on the roads and trails throughout Massachusetts. The Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts (BIA-MA) urges riders of all ages to wear a bike helmet.

More than 50,000 bike-related head injuries and 630 deaths occur in the United States each year. Massachusetts law requires anyone age 16 or under to wear a helmet while riding a bike, scooter, skate board or while in-line skating.

BIA-MA offers a series of prevention fact cards on such topics as helmet safety, booster seats, sports concussion, pedestrian safety and teen driving. For more information or to order a set of fact cards, call 800-242-0030 or visit www.biama.org.

THE WRITE STUFF For the writer in all of us, this New Hampshire-based company uses famous books and old newspapers for purses, decorations and coasters. The Write Stuff Design was created by New Hampshire native Kelly Mitchell who translated her English degree into a new business. As a mother of three boys, Kelly used her creative inspiration to express herself through words and designs that repurpose ev-

she creates.

The color and quality of each piece showcases her true talent. If you would like additional information about Aimee Klee Jewelry please visit Facebook at www.facebook.com/AimeeKleeJewelry or check out her custom website available at www.aimeekleejewelry.com. You can also follow her on Twitter: @akleejewelry.

Aimee Klee Jewelry is giving away a pair of earrings through baystateparent Magazine this month. Go to www.baystateparent.com and click “giveaways” for more information. The winners will be chosen randomly after Nov. 1. All contest submissions must be submitted by midnight on Oct. 31.

Q&A

Local jewelry designer Aimee Klee started making jewelry when her daughter was born prematurely in 2006. Aimee began her jewelry designs as a distraction from the worries of her daughter’s early arrival. With the help of her supportive husband she began creating custom pieces of jewelry.

All of Aimee’s designs can be found online at www.Aimeekleejewelry.etsy.com. Locally, Aimee’s jewelry designs are available at Sisters We Three located at 57 Pleasant Street, Newburyport, MA and Noa Jewelry, Fine Arts & Gifts with two locations: 86 Commonwealth Ave, West Concord, MA and 88 Charles Street, Boston, MA. In her own words, Aimee Klee places her heart and soul into every piece of jewelry

What are some alternatives to giving out candy on Halloween?

We asked our readers and this is what you came up with for alternatives to handing out Halloween candy. Here’s some suggestions: pretzels, Halloween pencils, party favors, juice boxes, coupons from restaurants like Wendy’s Frosty’s and erasers. One local mom said that her son would pick out a small pile of his favorite candy and then leave the rest near the fireplace for the Halloween Fairy. In the morning, the candy would be gone and a little toy, book or fun craft would be there. Another mom said that she freezes the candy and then uses it as stocking stuffers.

I was surprised that some of our Facebook fans said that they give out candy because it’s the one time in the year they allow their children to eat it. Others suggested that the candy be donated to local dentists who give out prizes.

DADS AND FOOTBALL As a way to share his love of college football with his newborn son, Michael Shoule, alum of Boston College wrote My Daddy Loves Boston College Football, a board book for every young football fan. With illustrations done by Arnel Reynon, this read together book is a great way to introduce football and reading to wee wuns. The book even includes the BC Fight Song.

eryday objects to new and creative uses.

The Write Stuff Design specializes in hand made journals, recycled map coasters, origami flowers and the most unique book purses. She is inspired by her love of the written word and the possibility that a beautiful sheet of paper holds.

Whether designing with fabric or paper she constantly strives to learn and execute new techniques in the design process that will motivate her clients to Love Life, Laugh Out Loud and Live Funky. For more information, visit www.thewritestuffdesign.com.

Junkdrawers strives to highlight the products, people and places of Massachusetts. Have an idea? Email editor@baystateparent.com.

BAYSTATEPARENT 25

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MALL-O-WEEN Saturday, October 20 Noon - 4 p.m.

Kids can come dressed in their favorite costume and enjoy special games, and fun.

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Not a Simon Kidgit Member, visit Simon Guest Services for details.

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Carve Out Some Time to CLAY!

Visit Claytime for beading, glass fusing, mosaics, pottery painting, birthday parties and more.

Auburn Mall is located at Exit 9 off I-290 or Exit 10 off I-90.

Shopping LineÂŽ 508.832.6000.

Solomon Pond Mall is located at Exit 25B off I-495 or I-290 in Marlborough, MA. Shopping LineÂŽ 508.303.6255.

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women’s

HEALTH 28

KEEPING KRIS STRONG

30

HEALING ART

33

HEART HEALTH ACT: Go RED

34

FOOD: Powerful Medicine Against Breast Cancer

38

LOSING & MAINTAINING 100 POUNDS OR MORE

40 42

MOMS ROCK: Marcia Lee Taylor CONVENIENT BLOOD TEST SPURS REPRODUCTION DILEMMA

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

- Lao-Tsu

paula swift photography

BAYSTATEPARENT 27

Keeping Kris WOMEN’SHEALTH

STRONG BY

It

jennifer lucarelli

was like any other morning. When Kris Burke stepped out of the shower, she wrapped a towel around herself to dry off and started to get ready for her day.

“As I wrapped myself in the towel, I felt a lump in my breast,” she says. “I went to the doctor, and they tested it. When they called with the results and said I had to come into the office, I knew it was cancer.”

That was in 2001 and at the time, Kris, now 45, lived in San Francisco. She had a lumpectomy and went through “hard-core” chemotherapy and radiation treatment. She was dating her husband Ben at the time.

“As soon as he heard about the diagnosis, he was right there for me,” Kris says. “He has been through everything with me – he’s amazing.”

Kris and Ben got married three years later and immediately wanted to start a family. They tried everything including in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) after her first battle with cancer. “I had wanted to keep my ovaries, so I could get pregnant,” she says. “Nothing worked – we tried everything.”

The doctors say they wanted to do a hysterectomy, so she made an appointment thinking there was no way she was pregnant.

“I called the day of the hysterectomy to tell them I was pregnant with Skyler,” she says. “Once you give up, then you get pregnant – that’s what everyone says.”

Skyler was born in 2006.

After Skyler was born, she had a pain on her right side.

“I thought it was because I was carrying so much stuff around including Skyler,” she says. But the doctors found masses in her liver. The cancer was back.

By that time, Kris and her husband had relocated to Massachusetts and she had treatments at Dana Farber in Boston. She had grown up in Massachusetts and throughout the treatments, she was able to teach fifth grade at the Framingham Public Schools.

“I was able to go to work while I went through treatments,” says Kris. “The kids and staff at school were great – they really supported me and understood if I had bad days or was losing my hair.”

To make her cancer a teaching lesson for the kids, she wore crazy wigs. “I wore blue, purple and pink wigs, so the kids would feel comfortable around me,” she says. “We had fun with it.”

28 OCTOBER2012

After four years as a teacher, Kris lost her job and with it her health care through the school system. “I would have been a tenured teacher after four years and one day of school working, but I was let go at the end of my fourth year,” she says. “We chose to use my husband’s health care, but it was extremely expensive, and it would have been better at the time to have used the school’s COBRA plan after I left the school.”

Now after 12 years of battling cancer, Kris and her family are on the brink of losing everything she and Ben have worked so hard to build.

“They could lose their home,” says Lori Greene, a family friend who is working with those who love Kris to get the word out to raise money. “She keeps thanking everyone for helping, and I keep wondering where Oprah or Ellen are to just make this better for the family.”

In September, Greene says Kris’ family filed for bankruptcy. The past medical bills were wiped out, but come January, the high deductible on Ben’s insurance will kick in, and the bills will stack up again. Her disability is about to run out as well, so even with Ben’s income, they will not be able to afford their mortgage payments.

“I’ve done the most extreme treatments in an attempt to get rid of the cancer,” Kris says.

“I had thought about stopping the treatments because the cost is so high, and it would leave my family in such a bad financial situation.”

She asked others what they thought, and finally her social worker gave her a different perspective.

“She said your family would rather have you here longer than not, so you may want to do everything you can to beat this,” Kris says. “So, I’ve decided to continue treatments.”

Kris says that it’s important for people to always seek out advice and don’t be afraid to ask for new perspectives. “One of the best things I’ve done is to be open to other people’s perspective and keep asking questions,” she says. “I also think it’s important for you bring someone else to a doctor’s appointment – you can’t remember everything, so you may also want to write down things that the doctor says.”

Kris says that she has good days and bad days.

On my bad days, Skyler knows that I have to stay in bed, so she’ll come and hang out and want to play Crazy Eights or just be with me,” she says. “She started kindergarten this year, and she’s had some separation anxiety, but we’re dealing with that with the help of her teachers.”

The teacher suggested Skylar bring in photos of her mom that she can keep in her backpack. “She’s afraid I’m not going to be here soon,” Kris says. “So some days she has to stay home, but we’re trying to encourage her to go to school.”

In Her Words….

When we asked what it is like battling cancer, she

“It sucks – knowing that you have a stupid disease, and it’s not going away. But you can’t focus on that every day. It’s important to find beauty and inspiration though… otherwise you could just dwell on the disease. It’s scary. I think about all says,

of the people around me who are affected by the disease. I worry about how Ben and Skyler are and how they’re going to be as it progresses. I could keep going on and on about these thoughts that aren’t the happiest and you have to find a reason to fight through every day. You don’t feel good most of the day when on chemotherapy and radiation – I just put on a happy face. One of my faults is that I worry about how everyone else is feeling – I don’t want anyone to feel uncomfortable or sad.”

Throughout her own struggles dealing with cancer, Kris has been so touched by others who have helped in any way.

“I was always the one to help everyone else, so it’s hard for me to accept help,” she says. “I don’t know how to say thank you enough, how deeply grateful we are for all of the help we’ve received.

It has really touched us and means a lot. I don’t think every community

would have come together this way. I’m glad we moved to Framingham.”

Family and friends have put together a website www.KeepingKrisStrong.org so people can donate to help them reach their goal of raising $25,000 a first step to help them to keep their home. There is also a Facebook page (www.facebook.com/groups/ keepingkrisstrong/) where you can donate. Checks can be mailed to Keeping Kris Strong, Middlesex Savings Bank, 235 Old Connecticut Path, Framingham, MA 01701.

Greene says if you can’t offer financial help, there is something you can do – the family needs help with meals, transportation and other resources.

Greene shares these ideas for helping: • If 12,500 of us gathered up the loose change in our pockets or purse and donated $2, we’d raise $25,000.

• If 5,000 of us decided not to stop at the coffee shop today and donated $5, we’d raise $25,000.

• If 2,500 of us brought our lunch to work instead of ordering it from the deli and donated $10 we’d raise $25,000.

• If 1,250 of us donated $20 instead of taking our kids out for ice cream after school today, we’d raise $25,000.

• If 500 of us (only 500 of us!) donated $50 instead of ordering take-out for their family tonight, we’d raise $25,000.

And if 250 of us decided we could live without those new shoes and donated $100, we’d raise $25,000.

paula swift photography

BAYSTATEPARENT 29

WOMEN’SHEALTH

healing

ART BY

“Your kids know what it means, right?”

Having just undergone her first treatment for breast cancer and having subsequently lost her hair – which she admits, like many women, was her signature feature – Yolanda Marrero is chatting away while I apply a henna design on her bare scalp.

She looks breathtaking.

The ritual, known among artists as a “henna crown,” is simultaneously new age and archaic, fitting with a current henna craze while somehow harkening back to a time long before chemotherapy, although probably not before cancer. Perhaps those ancient cultures in India and The Middle East, where the art of applying henna (known as mehndi) was a birthright and a tradition, dealt with cancer too.

30 OCTOBER2012

amanda roberge steven king photography

But modern society created the medicines that kill off your cells until you lose your hair – bringing patients to the brink of death before they can heal. So I do what any self-respecting henna artist would do: I make art on one of the most reverential canvases I’ve ever known.

My daughters – who have come along for the ride because it is the end of summer and I have run out of childcare favors and money for babysitters – quietly watch the process unfold while Yolanda tries to make light of the situation. Her attempts to make them feel comfortable are both appreciated and unnecessary.

They have become quite familiar with what it means to be bald – within the distinct context of my profession. They have come to believe that bald heads belong to strong, fierce, tough-as-nails women. Women who don’t take any crap from cancer.

So, yeah, my kids know what it means. Bald means beautiful.

But for many women, bald means something completely different. It means sick, and it incites fear. It reminds them that though they hope for a recovery or maybe a miracle, they are, at least for the moment, dying.

According to literature from the American Cancer Society, hair loss can happen when chemotherapy drugs travel throughout the body to kill cancer cells. Some - but not all, they make sure to point out - of these drugs damage hair follicles, causing the hair to fall out.

“Our hair has a lot to do with how we feel about ourselves,”

said Mary Aframe, a certified fitter of mastectomy who runs two boutique-style shops in Worcester and Leominster known as The Women’s Image Center. Mary has given herself a fancy title, “Wigologist,” for there is no real word for what she does when women undergoing cancer treatment come to her. Part therapist, part friend, part stylist, it is Mary who pours a cup of tea and grabs a box of tissues and once the tears have dried, she gets down to business.

“Women are just amazing creatures,” she said. “This is very rewarding work. It’s not easy sometimes, and sometimes we cry together. Then we do what needs to be done.”

Mary, who has two sisters with alopecia, a condition that causes hair loss unrelated to cancer or chemotherapy, has made it her life’s work to help women through the changes they go through during treatment. She helps them feel beautiful.

“A lot of women, when they come to my shops, are just in a place they never ever thought they’d be,” she explained.

“The hair loss is really the first visible sign, to the outside world, that they are sick.”

Different women have different ways of coping. Perhaps the most popular way is to find a wig or some scarves or hats that make them feel less conspicuous in public, but others choose the less-traveled route of flaunting what they have.

During one of my henna booth gigs at a local festival, I was approached by Lisa Heffner, a Leominster resident

whose bald head was bedazzled with pink rhinestones and a smattering of glitter. She was a month away from the 3-Day Susan G. Komen walk to support breast cancer, and she wanted to show off her beautiful baldness with some henna.

I met another woman during a festival this summer who, upon seeing photos of henna crowns I had done, told me her story. She was just weeks out of her first chemo treatment when the first clumps of hair began to fall. Rather than isolate herself or fight the inevitable, she threw a party for herself so friends could support her while she shaved it all off.

But she was moved when the clippers were turned on and she heard a small voice from the other side of the room. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Me first,â&#x20AC;? said her son, quickly followed by her husband and several other male attendees, who went bald to support the number one woman in their lives. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was really touching,â&#x20AC;? she added. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I cried through the whole thing, but mostly because of that.â&#x20AC;?

Julie Huard, who resides in North Central Massachusetts, was honored to have the support and cheerleading of her husband and children when she began to lose her hair after starting chemotherapy in June of 2011 for her breast cancer. But even though the medical professionals had warned her that it would happen, she couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seem to get a grip when it did. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I called my husband immediately, and I was crying hysterically,â&#x20AC;? she said of the car ride when she gave her hair a little tug and was in complete shock to find that it came out easily. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He could not even make out

what I was saying.â&#x20AC;?

But like women do, she wailed and vented and processedâ&#x20AC;Śand then moved on to the task at hand. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I cried for a solid hour and then wiped my tears away, went into the bathroom and shaved my head, fully,â&#x20AC;? she recalls.

One of the most profound experiences of my life was attending an event called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Shave for the Braveâ&#x20AC;? in Washington DC where 46 mothers shaved their heads at Union Station to raise money and awareness for childhood cancer. The women, all came together to support this cause, and they all looked unbelievably gorgeous.

Pop singer Kellie Pickler recently made news when she did the same, and so the taboo is beginning to lift and the world is beginning to see that bald is beautiful.

But for those who are not afforded the choice, the event is recognized as one of the more traumatic and emotionally upsetting aspect of cancer for women.

And while a henna crown canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t solve this or take away the pain, it is something to ease the helplessness, to help women take control and breathe for a day, to feel the connection of human hands and a gentle, loving touch.

And let some of the healing begin.

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Join us for these events: HARVEST FAIR Saturday, October 13 10-4 Fun for the whole family.

Tours available. â&#x20AC;&#x153;TAKE A LOOKâ&#x20AC;?

First Thursday of each month, 9:00 am Next date, October 4

Amanda Roberge is a Leominster-based artist and freelance writer. She provides henna crowns at no cost to women undergoing chemotherapy, email her to set up an appointment at ahroberge@gmail.com.

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WOMEN’SHEALTH

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Heart Health Act: WOMEN’SHEALTH

Go RED BY

jennifer lucarelli

It’s no surprise that eating right and exercise can help keep you healthy.

What is surprising is that heart disease is the number one killer of women, and most women don’t even know the warning signs.

Thanks to a federal bill enacted by Congress in April, women’s health is now taking a front seat, especially when it comes to heart health and research.

“More younger women are getting heart attacks, diabetes and are obese,” said Dr. Malissa Wood, co-director of Massachusetts General Hospital’s Heart Center Corrigan Women’s Heart Health Program. “Heart disease is the number one killer among women, and many women don’t know the warning signs of a heart attack.”

Dr. Wood said that signs of a heart attack in women are different than a heart attack in men.

“Men typically feel an elephant on their chest or classic signs of a heart attack like the pain in the arm,” she said.

“It’s can be different for women – they can have heart pressure, chest, back and arm discomfort, a pain in the jaw, shortness of breath, heart palpitations and even swelling of the feet.”

She said these are less typical signs of a heart attack that can show up in men as well, but these symptoms are more common in women. Also, women may seek treatment and a doctor may say that they are fine and should just go home and rest.

“There was a woman who was young, healthy and having symptoms,” Dr. Wood said. “She called an ambulance and they came, but said she was having a ‘panic attack.’ She was adopted and didn’t know that she had heart disease because of her birth family’s history.”

Dr. Wood said that the new bill will allow for more outreach to women to educate them on the symptoms of heart disease. The Heart Disease Education Analysis Research and Treatment for Women Act (HEART for Women Act), not only sets aside money for outreach, but it also sets aside specific funding for research studies on the effect of different prescription medications and medical devices used in heart-related medical problems.

“Up until now, research has mostly been done on men, but women’s hearts and veins are smaller than men, so this bill will allow for more research based on gender and age,” she said. “Medical devices and prescription drugs tested only on men have been used to help women, but we don’t know how it can harm women.”

Dr. Wood said there is a genetic component to heart disease that means women should know their family history, but women with no genetic history are having heart problems as well.

“As mothers, we take care of ourselves last, generally

speaking,” said Dr. Wood. “Mothers of young children need to understand that by eating healthy and exercising themselves, they are modeling good behavior for their children.”

She says that there is research to show that if a woman is obese when her child is 1 years old, then by the time her child is 16 there is an 80 percent chance he or she will be obese as well.”

By enacting this bill, the news is hopeful for women’s health. “Mom’s run the roost, so if mom stays healthy, it is win-win for the kids,” she said. “I grew up with a mom who was forward thinking and said that we had to eat healthy and play outside, so it really helped me keep health in the forefront when I had kids.”

Through the grant money available in this bill, moms and women will have more research at their fingertips to help make the best choices for themselves and their families.

The hope for the GO RED campaign, through the American Heart Association is to gain as much exposure to women as the American Cancer Society has done through their preventing breast cancer campaigns.

“I’m a breast cancer survivor, so I know how hard they’ve worked to get the word out,” she said. “Chemotherapy can cause heart problems after the treatment has ended, so it’s all under of the same umbrella of women’s health.”

How can women help avoid a heart attack?

• Don’t smoke and avoid other people’s tobacco smoke.

• Treat high blood pressure if you have it.

• Eat foods that are low in saturated fat, Trans fat, cholesterol and salt.

• Be physically active.

• Keep your weight under control.

• Get regular medical check-ups.

• Take medicine as prescribed.

• Control our blood sugar if you have diabetes.

• Ask your doctor questions or concerns you may have about heart health.

For more information about heart disease, visit www.goredforwomen.org.

BAYSTATEPARENT 33

WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;SHEALTH

FOOD

Powerful Medicine

AGAINST

Breast Cancer BY

lisa mair susanne k. ollmann photography

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The food you eat can be either the safest and most powerful form of medicine or the slowest form of poison.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Dr. Ann Wigmore Because cancer was practically nonexistent in humans until relatively recently, many experts believe that it is a man-made disease. Dietary changes away from whole, natural foods and exposure to damaging chemicals helped to create this epidemic. Since food is our most intimate connection with the environment, it is our most powerful tool in staying healthy.

The field of epigenetics has shown us that molecules in food actually turn genes

for cancer off. Whether you have a cancer gene is not as important as whether you activate it. Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, advised, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Let food be thy medicine.â&#x20AC;? What kind of â&#x20AC;&#x153;medicineâ&#x20AC;? are you eating?

The Standard American Diet If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re like most Americans, 62% of your diet is processed foods. Not only are processed foods â&#x20AC;&#x153;anti-nutrientsâ&#x20AC;? but they also contain toxic chemicals including artificial colors and flavors, MSG, preservatives, carcinogenic pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, endocrine disrupting chemicals from the packaging, fake fats, fake sugars, refined sugar, and the list goes on. Scary as that

sounds, this is the bulk of the American diet. Less than 10% of our diet comes from healing fruits and vegetables.

Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pharmacy Hippocrates wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t suggesting that granola bars, wheat germ or pasta are medicine. He was referring specifically to unprocessed plant foods. Their power to heal is vastly underappreciated in America.

The antioxidants and phytonutrients found in plants reduce free radical damage and systemic inflammation, the root causes of cancer, disease and aging. Plant foods are alkalizing, which means they raise our bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pH. This is beneficial because cancer thrives in a low, acidic pH. And hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the coup de gras - hundreds of compounds in plant foods have been shown to block cancer progression through

a multitude of chemical pathways.

All plant foods are beneficial, and the superstars of cancer prevention are greens, cruciferous vegetables, mushrooms, onions and garlic, pomegranates, berries, herbs and spices. Research has shown: Greens protect your DNA from mutation and free radical damage.

A 20 percent increase in consumption of cruciferous vegetables results in a 40 percent decrease in cancer rates.

Mushroom eaters enjoy a 60-70 percent decrease in the risk of breast cancer.

The highest consumers of onions have less than half as many cancers as people who rarely consume onions.

Curcumin (found in the Indian spice turmeric) has been found to reduce tumors by 81 percent. Not bad for an easy and delicious addition to your meal!

When you do the math, you realize that

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Women achieving their goals, improving their lives.

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we may already have the cure for cancer.

We just stopped eating it. Saying that fruits and vegetables are good for you is an understatement. They can literally save your life.

Let’s get excited about adding these gems back into our meals! It is not considered a healthy meal unless at least half of the plate is filled with vegetables and fruit.

I’ve included some of my favorite recipes to get you started. Vegetarian cookbooks are filled with recipes rich in life-saving plants.

Additional Factors It is wise to buy organic produce, since many pesticides are known carcinogens. If that isn’t in the budget, check out the dirty dozen and clean 15 lists from www.ewg. org for the most and least contaminated foods.

Dr. Cedric Garland stated that breast cancer could be “virtually eradicated” through increased levels of vitamin D, now regarded as a superstar in prevention.

Get your levels checked, and supplement during the colder months.

Limit alcohol to a half of a serving per day. Any more than that increases your risk of breast cancer.

Consider eliminating wheat. Millions of people suffer from undiagnosed wheat sensitivity which may be root cause of 55 diseases, including cancer. Read Dr. Mark Hyman’s article “Gluten: What You Don’t Know Might Kill You” on www. drhyman.com.

Finally, let’s address the pink elephant in the room. We are eating our body weight in sugar every year. Sugar fuels cancer cells and suppresses our immune system, which would otherwise protect us from malignancy. Avoid processed foods and bottled beverages with high sugar content. For more information, read “Get the Sugar Out” by Ann Louise Gittleman.

Health coaches can guide you on your journey to nutritional excellence. Stay well!

Lisa Mair has a masters degree in food science and nutrition and is a holistic health coach in private practice. She also is a Kripalu certified yoga instructor.

See www.lisamair.com for more information.

Green Smoothie Green smoothies are a better way to start your day than the usual sugary, empty calorie breakfast fare.

• Approximately 2 cups of organic baby spinach • 2 tablespoons honey (raw, organic, local if possible) • 1 cup water Blend until smooth.

• 1 banana, peeled • ½ cup frozen strawberries • 1 cup frozen blueberries

The frozen fruit blends are better when placed in blender last. Feel free to adjust amounts to your preferences, and experiment with other fruits. Optional nutritional boosts: raw almond butter, protein powder, ground flax seeds, goji berries, aloe vera, wheat grass powder, maca, and spirulina.

Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie Topping • 2 lbs. all purpose potatoes, scrubbed, unpeeled, and quartered • 2 tablespoons butter • ¼ cup plain soy or almond milk • 1 teaspoon tamari or soy sauce

• 1 garlic clove, crushed • ½ cup grated cheese, any kind, divided • Several dashes cayenne to taste • Paprika for garnish

Filling • 1 tablespoons olive oil • 1 large onion, chopped • 5 large fresh tomatoes with their juice coarsely chopped (or 1 large can crushed tomatoes) • 1 pound carrots, sliced • 1 green pepper, seeded and diced

• 1 head cauliflower cut into bite sized chunks • 1 bay leaf • 1 tablespoon dried basil • 1 box frozen chopped spinach, thawed, squeezed of excess water • 1 teaspoon tamari or soy sauce • 1 clove garlic, minced

Cook the potatoes in lightly salted water to cover until they are soft. Drain the potatoes and when they are cool enough to handle, remove and discard their skins, add the butter or margarine and the milk, and mash the potatoes until they are smooth. Mix in the tamari or soy sauce, the garlic, and 2/3 of the cheese.

Set the mixture aside.

Prepare the filling in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Heat the oil, saute the onion until it is soft. Add the tomatoes, carrots, green pepper, cabbage, cauliflower, bay leaf and basil. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer the mixture for 20 minutes. Add the greens, tamari or soy sauce, and garlic, and simmer the mixture 5 minutes longer. Discard the bay leaf.

Transfer the vegetables to a large casserole (3 or 4 quart size). Spread the mashed potato mixture over the vegetables. Sprinkle on the remaining cheese plus the cayenne and paprika. Bake the pie in a preheated 350 degree oven for 15 or 20 minutes or until it is heated through and the topping is lightly browned.

Blueberry Pie This is a raw, nutrient dense version of the standard pie without trans fats and refined sugar.

• 2 cups almonds • ½ cup dates, pitted and soaked for a few hours • 5 cups blueberries (fresh if sweet, or frozen) • 2 ripe bananas • 1½ tablespoons honey In a food processor, grind the almonds until fine. Add the dates and blend until smooth.

Press into a pie plate to make a crust. Blend 4 cups blueberries, bananas, and honey until smooth. Mix in 1 cup of whole blueberries. Pour into the crust. Refrigerate for at l east three hours to solidify the filling.

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IS YOUR FAMILY INTERESTED IN

MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIFE OF A CHILD OR TEEN IN NEED? Host a Party with a Purpose.

In lieu of gifts for the birthday boy or girl, party guests are invited to bring a donation for

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WOMEN’SHEALTH

Losing & Maintaining 100 Pounds or More BY

melissa shaw

It was July 2010 when I realized I was going to die young.

I was two months away from turning 40 and nearly 300 lbs. I would wake up in the middle of the night, gasping for air. My blood pressure was still dangerously high after my last pregnancy a year earlier.

My hands and feet would go numb; I would have bet money I was pre-diabetic, if not diabetic outright but I refused to go to a doctor because I was so scared of what he might say.

I remember sitting on the floor of my sun porch, watching my children – 4.5, 3 and 1 – play. It was a sunny day, the sky was blue and clear, and there I sat, my Size 28 body defeated and exhausted from everyday life—too tired to sit on the floor, too large to try to get up from it.

The realization was crystal clear: You are going to die young and leave them motherless.

As a life-long overweight person, I’d had “Ah-ha” moments before, to varying degrees of success. In my early 30s I lost 122 lbs in 18 months, only to eventually regain nearly all of it.

But this time I realized it wasn’t just about me anymore, and I was at a crossroads.

I could either eat my way to an early grave or get healthy.

Suddenly, it was that simple. That doesn’t mean it was easy, but the concept was clear: It was time to fight for myself and get my life back or endure a very poor quality of life leading to certain death.

As a parent, we’re accustomed to putting ourselves last. It’s what we do. But I realized I had to make my health the priority. If I wanted to be the parent, the wife, the person I wanted to be–the person I knew I was–I had to take care of myself first.

But how would I do it with a family to care for?

I just did.

I shopped, I planned, I wrote down what I ate and

drank. I started working out before the kids got up because I knew it was the only time I could guarantee I could get it in. Did I like getting up at 5 a.m.?

Absolutely not. But I did, because I had no choice. It was what I had to do.

I rejoined Weight Watchers on Sept. 10, 2010, at 282.4 lbs. On Nov. 1, 2011, I reached my goal weight, having lost 125 lbs. Next month, I will have maintained that loss for a year.

People who hear this ask: What made the difference this time?

I abandoned my all-or-nothing mentality.

Previously, I was either the world’s best dieter or eating sleeves of Oreos on the couch.

This time, I stopped thinking of being “on” or “off” a program. I just did my best every day to follow a healthy eating plan and move a little bit more. Some days I was my old, perfect dieter Type-A self. And on the days I wasn’t, there was no guilt. I did the best I could, learned from any mistakes and thought, “tomorrow is a new day.” There are no style points in getting to goal, no prize for doing it as fast as possible.

Just because I wasn’t “perfect” today doesn’t mean I should chuck the whole thing tomorrow, until the next time I get so disgusted with myself I try it all again.

In the past, I would let “events” throw me off program and it would take me weeks, months or years to get back on.

This time I realized that there will always be a: • Holiday.

• Vacation.

• Birthday party (your children’s or that of the 128 friends’ parties they’re invited to each year).

• Dinner with friends.

• Wedding/shower, etc.

I honestly understood and accepted that I had to adapt to the world, it was not going to adapt to me.

Scare off the fat!

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Melissa before her weight loss.

Melissa at her ďŹ rst 5K while losing her weight.

If I wanted to live a healthy life, I had to learn how to deal with its challenges.

I put myself first.

This is an odd thing for a parent to preach, but you must.

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re hungry, eat before the kids. They can amuse themselves for a half hour while you eat in relative peace.

Whatever it is, be it an hour at the gym, a kitchen gadget or a new pair of workout pants, if you need it to be a healthier parent, do it. You deserve it and you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take care of others if you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take care of yourself.

Your children may not be able to articulate it, but they want the best for you, just like you want for them. A healthy parent is a happy parent, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something your whole family will all agree.

I was sick of hating the sight of myself in the mirror or, worse, in pictures. I was tired of not caring about my appearance, knowing I could hide behind the â&#x20AC;&#x153;busy mother of threeâ&#x20AC;? excuse.

Melissa after losing 100 pounds for the second time.

I was sick of meeting people and the first thing they saw was my very large size, not the fact that I was a funny, caring, smart person they would want to know.

I just didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to be the â&#x20AC;&#x153;fat momâ&#x20AC;? anymore. And I despaired that I had hundreds of pictures of my husband and the children and none of all of us because I was too embarrassed by my appearance.

Damn it, I knew I was better than this. I wanted my selfesteem and confidence back. It was time to fight and, once and for all, win.

I am nothing special. I have no special talent. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a great metabolism, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not an athlete. If I can do this, you absolutely can, too.

If you look at my pictures and think, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Maybeâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;? forget â&#x20AC;&#x153;Maybeâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you can reach your weight loss goal, no question.

You will start small. Make one change. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see results and make another. Pretty soon those changes will pile up and this new way of life will get easier.

I AM nothing special.

I HAVE no special talent.

I DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T have a great metabolism, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;M NOT an athlete.

If I can DO THIS, you absolutely can, too.

Your clothes will get looser and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll like what you see in the mirror. Others will compliment you on your transformation and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll start to see that ember of self-esteem start to blaze.

You will have good days and you will have bad days, but youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll know that in the end the good will outnumber the bad and all your hard work will be reflected. You know this is not a race and you will learn from mistakes.

You will look in the mirror one day, and the person you always wanted to be will be staring back at you.

You will be living a healthy, happy life and someone will ask you, â&#x20AC;&#x153;How did you do it?â&#x20AC;?

And youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll respond: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I just did.â&#x20AC;?

Melissa Shaw is a writer, wife, mother of three and Weight Watchers leader in Central Massachusetts.

You can read her blog at www.alifetimeloser.blogspot.com or email her at alifetimeloser@gmail.com.

â&#x201E;˘

Walk. Give.

To help him live.

Form a team today and start raising funds to help save kids like David. So he can play until the street lights come on.

Š2012 ALSAC/St. Jude Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Research Hospital (11399)

Join the St. Jude Give thanks. Walk. November 17

St. Jude Give thanks. Walk.

Saturday, November 17, 2012 /RFDWLRQ 1DWLFN &ROOHFWLRQ 1DWLFN 0$ 5HJLVWUDWLRQ D P &HQWHU &RXUW 6WDUW D P

Sign up today at givethankswalk.org.

BAYSTATEPARENT 39

WOMEN’SHEALTH

MOMS ROCK!

Marcia Lee Taylor Of WINCHESTER Age: 40 Mom of: Grace, 4 and Kate, 2 Occupation: senior vice-president and director of government affairs at the partnership at Dregfree.org BY

W

bonnie j. toomey steven king photography

hen her 4-year-old daughter, Grace, asked Marcia what her job is, Marcia Lee Taylor explains, “that Momma works to help other parents help their kids.”

Marcia strives to build a peaceful home where both of her daughters can feel safe and loved, a home which is safe and welcoming for their little friends as well.

As a mom it’s important for her to find balance by giving 100 percent to her family and, at the same time, really believe in the work she’s doing.

Since becoming a mom, she’s even more passionate about the need for parents to talk to their children about the dangers of drugs and alcohol.

“I’m much more prone to bring it up at a cocktail party–because our surveys show parents aren’t aware, and I like to make sure my friends are aware of these things.”

One of her biggest concerns comes from her discussions with some officials who want to throw in the towel, but Marcia perseveres. When she hears from parents who have tragically lost their children to a drug overdose, she is reminded of why her job is worth the effort.

She sees parents’ resources shrinking, especially for parents of teens. Although bullying and sexting have gotten a lot of attention in the media, substance abuse is still murky water for many parents to navigate.

Most kids will encounter pressure injected by their peers when they enter adolescence, some even younger than that.

“A lot of parents don’t realize they need to talk soon. You talk to a first grader and they are champions in this subject. They’ll say smoking is dirty, drugs are awful, and drinking is bad,” adds Marcia.

The antidote against danger is a healthy dialogue in age-appropriate doses as children grow, a practice which is painless 40 OCTOBER2012

and powerful for families. As an advocate Marcia understands that if parents can give the perception that drugs are dangerous, a child will have a better chance of resisting unhealthy choices later on.

Still, many parents see it as a right of passage, and don’t see the serious risk of substance abuse.

“We know so much more about the development of children’s brains than we did before, the brain is not fully developed until their early 20s. We know now that a proclivity to substance abuse does have a genetic element to it.”

Marcia’s prescription as a mom is to never wink, nod, or look the other way when it comes to any risky behaviors. She administers the first round of inoculations to her girls by simply saying that medicine and vitamins are taken with mommy or daddy’s help.

“Kids really are listening,” says the senior vice president and director of government affairs at The Partnership at Drugfree.org, who grew up watching politics with her dad.

After graduating college she went to Baltimore and worked for The Jesuit Volunteer Corp. for one year, where she saw first-hand how drugs tore at the fabric of the community. For four years she worked for Senator Patrick Moynihan and then Senator Joe Biden as a legislative assistant covering drug policy and other issues.

In 2005, she married and that year became part of the team at The Partnership at Drugfree.org.

“I loved it, it was a very logical transition for me,” says Marcia who describes the experience as falling backwards into it.

If you ask her she’ll tell you that the family dinner can be used as a proxy for kid’s involvement and a strong antidote for any breakdown of communication.

“Because I travel for work I make sure I spend time on the weekends, and the days I’m home, being in tune with my children’s

worlds.”

She reminds parents that it’s important to stay in touch with teachers, coaches, and your children’s peer group because that is the team you assemble first if there are any red flags. Obviously parents raise their kids, but having positive organizations can help parents to help their kids when it comes to substance abuse in the media and in school.

Many times that means parents need to make sacrifices like making the time to listen and being actively involved no matter what. The active and articulate mom thinks ideally it should be part of a parent’s job description.

“Going to games, recitals, taking time off from work in a crisis, these are all things I try to put first,” she says.

“These good messages are like surround sound,” and can help parents to clearly “deliver what is safe and right,” says Marcia who is doing just that for her young daughters, and she hopes with all her heart, for many other children as well.

is a good tool for parents or organizations like the one I work for, I worry about peer pressure and bullying being magnified on social networking sites.

Bonnie J. Toomey is a freelance writer, poet, and columnist who blogs about parents and children in today’s world. Read more at www.parentforward.blogspot.com or e-mail her at bonniejtoomey@gmail.com.

8. Typical Taylor Day: A typical Saturday morning begins with the entire family (including the dog) piling into our bed.

We spend the day running between ballet, soccer, the park and a few errands. Often there is also a trip to get some pizza for lunch and maybe a little ice cream if everyone is behaving. The girls’ day ends with a bath and lots of bedtime stories.

Take 15 Take with Marcia Marcia 1. Family philosophy: ‘Be kind to one another.’

2. Family pet: We have a 6-year-old English bulldog named Dudley. I refer to him as my first born.

3. Social media mentality as parent: My kids are still too young to be engaged in social media and I hope to shield them from it as long as possible. While I think it

4. Family pasttime: After-dinner-walks into town to get ice cream and family dance parties in the kitchen.

5. What we like most about Winchester and why: We have been in Winchester a little over a year and have met great people.

It is a welcoming, family-friendly place with a strong sense of community. I feel very lucky to live here.

6. Mentors: My dad. He passed away when I was 6 weeks pregnant with my oldest daughter, and I miss him terribly.

7. A typical ‘proud mother’ moment: I melt when I see my girls hug each other and when I hear them say, ‘I love you,’ to one another.

9. Your kids’ favorite children’s book right now and why: My 4-year-old likes Fancy Nancy books because she relates to her need to over-accessorize and be fabulous. I like Fancy Nancy because she has a sneaky way of teaching kids new words. My 2-year-old likes a book about Old MacDonald because she likes to sing the words (loudly!) and any books featuring Dora, Olivia or D.W. because she considers all of those characters her friends.

10. Wish for my kids: I wish for them to always love one another as much as they do now and to follow their dreams.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

pumpkin picking corn maze hayrides

11. Parent involvement means: Knowing your kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; friends, communicating with their teachers and coaches, understanding what your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fears are and why, being aware of who and what is influencing your child, taking time each day to check in with them and listen. From what I do professionally, I know that this gets more and more important (and more and more difficult) as kids get older.

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12. Secret to a good family relationship: Laughter.

13. Favorite places to visit in Massachusetts and why: Our favorite place is the Boston Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum, which the girls refer to as â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Arthur Museumâ&#x20AC;? because of their favorite room with Arthur, D.W. and all of their friends.

14. Current family obsession: My daughters are obsessed with Beauty and the Beastâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;the music, the characters and the dancing. We even have a Belle hairbrush. Beauty and the Beast has become our family obsessionâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; even though only the kids are actually excited about itâ&#x20AC;Ś.

15. One sentence to describe me: I am a working mom who tries to balance a great family and a job I love, and I try not to leave the house wearing two different shoes!

6&+$571(5 )$506 A lot of parents donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t realize they need to talk soon. You talk to a first grader and they are champions in this subject.

Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll say smoking is dirty, drugs are awful, and drinking is bad,â&#x20AC;? adds Marcia.

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BAYSTATEPARENT 41

WOMEN’SHEALTH

Convenient Blood Test Spurs Reproduction Dilemma BY

wendy bulawa agudelo

The speed at which medicine advances can, to some, be likened to fever pitch. Today, there are cures for fatal diseases that historically leveled a population. While cures for cancer and HIV remain undiscovered, science is investing in prevention—from as early as the onset of conception. Medical minds consider this a boon: the ability to note at conception the sex of an embryo, the color of its eyes and hair, and

overall genetic makeup. Within the highly intricate process of reproduction and quest for perfection, scientists continue to seek out avenues that avert the very essence of what makes us who we today are: human—each with our own set of frailties, flaws and imperfections. And with that power comes a bevy of unanswered questions—moral, ethical and spiritual—that most reproductive couples are not yet ready to face.

L

a pregnancy. Additionally, the question remains whether expectant couples truly understand what it means to have a child with Down syndrome—especially if their lives have never been touched by an individual with the diagnosis.

Research has shown that the termination rate for fetuses thought to have Down syndrome sits at greater than 90 percent. This is an alarming rate given that thousands of individuals with Down syndrome currently reside in Massachusetts and today live very rich and fulfilling lives as lobbyists, entrepreneurs and actors. What seems absent to many in 2012 is an accurate, non-stereotypic view of Down syndrome. Today, people with Down syndrome do the same things genetically ‘typical’ people do. They attend college, own businesses, live longer lives, get married and make significant contributions within their communities.

Unfortunately, this information hasn’t

ast fall, the first of its kind, an early—screening blood test was released across more than 20 U.S. cities by life sciences behemoth, Sequenom. Dubbed MaterniT21™, the blood test detects trisomy 21—otherwise known as Down syndrome. Prior to its release, knowledge about a fetus’ genetic makeup required invasive testing through amniocentesis or chorioamniotic villous sampling (CVS) - both of which carry potential risks of either fetal injury or miscarriage.

Often referred to inaccurately as “Downs,” Trisomy 21 or Down syndrome, is a genetic-based medical diagnosis that today impacts 1 in approximately 800 births. The diagnosis is associated with certain physical characteristics such as almond-shaped eyes and shortened stature as well as developmental delays.

However, as with all forms of medical diagnoses from autism to cancer, there is 42 OCTOBER2012

a range of ability and a degree of severity unique to each individual.

The new blood test, in use throughout the country and internationally, is not yet routine for all pregnant mothers, but can be administered as early as 10 weeks gestation. And, while a huge departure from the more invasive and risky tests, MaterniT21 has limitations and is not 100 percent accurate. First, MaterniT21 only tests for/detects Trisomy 21 and not other forms of Down syndrome, such as translocation or mosaic Down syndrome.

In addition, a “negative” result could still mean that a fetus has Trisomy 18, Trisomy 13, or other genetic conditions likely to have been noted by an amniocentesis or CVS. This failure in accuracy, some would argue, creates an additional dilemma for expectant couples as they determine whether the risk of accuracy is worth the risk of either continuing or terminating

readily been accessible to couples receiving a pre- or post-natal diagnosis of Down syndrome—until now.

Signed into law earlier this year, the Act Relative to Down Syndrome Genetic Test Results (H3825), mandates that new or expectant parents of children with Down syndrome are given the latest, culturally-appropriate information about what it means to have a child with Down syndrome, as well as contact information for support services. This national legislation was sponsored by Massachusetts Rep. Tom Sannicandro of Ashland and Senator Katherine Clark of Melrose and is the first of its kind.

Since the initial release of Sequenom’s MaterniT21 last Fall, additional early Down syndrome screening blood tests have come to market including Ariosa Diagnostics’ Harmony Test and the Verifi® test from Verinata Health. The impact of these advanced early screening

mechanisms on the Down syndrome community cannot be overstated.

Therefore, working hand-in-hand with maternity hospitals, OB/GYN practices and genetic counselors, the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress (MDSC)— the statewide support organization for the Down syndrome community— tirelessly supports expectant couples, individuals and families of children with Down syndrome. Through its First Call Program, the MDSC has completed a broad outreach program to provide resources and training on the best practices in delivering the diagnosis of Down syndrome to expectant parents.

Dr. Brian Skotko, co-director of the Down Syndrome Program at Massachusetts General Hospital and MDSC Board member, has invested many years researching Down syndrome from a parent, family, sibling and even self-advocate perspective. He co-authored a research study published in the October 2011 issue of the American Journal of Medical Genetics, which explored how parents, siblings and individuals with Down syndrome generally feel about Down syndrome.

The results of the study concluded that: • 99 percent of individuals with Down syndrome said they were happy with their lives • 97 percent of those with Down syndrome liked who they are • 99 percent of parents said they love their child with Down syndrome • 97 percent of brothers/sisters; ages 9-11, said they love their sibling with Down syndrome Dr. Skotko believes that, “Prenatal decisions about Down syndrome present profound and deeply personal challenges to expectant parents. But for the first time, data about real families is available and can be considered by couples when they receive the diagnosis.” Dr. Skotko has stated across various national news articles that prenatal screening tests could encourage more couples to terminate

pregnancies, thus causing a decline in the number of people with Down syndrome and leading to diminished support for the current population of those with Down syndrome. He has further identified that many expectant parents unfamiliar with Down syndrome face a daunting decision, as most do not have all necessary information to make the best choice for their family.

The month of October presents a unique opportunity for Bay State residents to gain a first-hand and current view of Down syndrome through the MDSC’s Buddy Walk. Now in its 16th year, the Buddy Walk is held annually during Down Syndrome Awareness Month. The half-day event, open to all, takes place at Lake Quannapowitt in Wakefield on Sunday, Oct. 7. MDSC Buddy Walk celebrity guests include Lauren Potter (a.k.a. Becky Jackson, actress/Glee) and singer Ayla Brown. Attendees can enjoy a 3-mile trek around the Lake, a picnic lunch and fantastic fall entertainment.

For more information, to register, or to sponsor a team, visit: www.mdsc.org/ events/BuddyWalkFamilyPicnic.cfm.

Before I became a mother, I dedicated one full day a week for seven years as a volunteer at Children’s Hospital Boston.

I can say without reservation that it was the most perspective altering experience of my life—and still is. I saw newborns and infants struggling with devastating illnesses and what some may refer to as ‘deformities.’ Spending hours visiting with patients of all ages and conditions and their families taught me that human nature is at its most courageous and bright when faced with challenge. That perspective is what allowed me to look at my newborn daughter, born unexpectedly with Down syndrome, in the proper light.

I didn’t mourn the medical diagnosis, but instead, celebrated her birth—as all mothers would. I didn’t know what the future held, but I knew that she wasn’t an outcast or worthy of less. She was just born with her own unique challenge.

Every child has at least one. Ask every mother you know, and you’ll hear about it. Trust me.

Wendy Bulawa Agudelo is mom to three children (a daughter, 7 and twin sons, 5) and resides in North Andover, Mass.

She is an active champion for the special needs community, an entrepreneur, a culinary enthusiast, and would rather wear Merrells than heels.

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BAYSTATEPARENT 43

OH, THE

PLACES YOU’LL Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away!

- dr. seuss

courtesy of the ecotarium

GO

david albaugh, courtesy of rwp zoo

courtesy of the franklin park zoo

GO EAT: Even the animals get into the spirit of Halloween.

This bongo at the Franklin Park Zoo loves a good pumpkin treat.

44 OCTOBER2012

massachusetts office of travel and tourism

GO STRIKE A POSE: The Great Pumpkin Festival at the Ecotarium is Saturday, Oct. 20 from noon to 5 p.m.

Hundreds of pumpkins will be on display and lit after dark.

GO GET SPOOKED: The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular will be on display at the Roger Williams Park Zoo from Oct. 4 to Nov. 3.

GO JAM: Fall is a great time to make jam at the Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen in East Sandwich.

OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO MELTDOWN WARNING: Before you pack up the minivan, please confirm your destination. Although we’ve done our best to assure accuracy at press time, things can and do change…

A Adult C Child Y Youth M Member NM Non-Member PP Per Person

1MONDAY Discover Aussie Aviary at the Franklin Park Zoo. Franklin Park Zoo, One Franklin Park Road, Boston. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Aussie Aviary is home to hundreds of brightly-colored, free-flying budgies!

Visit Aussie Aviary and marvel at these fascinating and beautiful birds while they surround you in a fully interactive and unforgettable experience. 617-5415466, zoonewengland.org

Which way is west, anyway? Learn some elementary map and compass skills (we’ll provide the maps and compasses), while exploring the wilder areas of Drumlin Farm. Who knows what we might find along the way? Children $12m/ $14nm Best for ages 7-9.

781-259-2200, massaudubon.org.

ONGOING Knucklebones Playtime: Arts at the Armory. 191 Highland Avenue, Somerville. 10-11 a.m. Playtime with Knucklebones will be a great time for children, dads, moms, and caregivers to be active in the beautiful Arts at the Armory Performance Hall!

Every Thursday. $7/child, $10/family. 617-718-2191

5FRIDAY October Friday Night Live at Oak Knoll.

Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary, 1417 Park Street,

receive birthday-themed enrichment items filled with treats. A $17, C (ages 2-12) $14, Seniors $11, C under 2 FREE. 617-541-5466, zoonewengland.org.

October Harvest Weekends: Pick-Your-Own Pumpkins. Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Meet native wildlife at one of our live animal demonstrations, pick your own produce, participate in family-friendly games, exercise your creativity at our nature craft table, and enjoy some local apples, cider, and cider donuts. No registration is required. A &T $7 C $5 (ages 2-12) and seniors, FREE for Mass Audubon members. 781-259-2200, massaudubon.org.

FREE. Nature Play Date. Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan. 1- 3 p.m. Drop in anytime to enjoy the Nature Nook! Dig in the dirt, make a dam in the stream, or build a shelter.

During Nature Play Dates, the play area will have a

Evening at the Beaver Ponds. Berkshire Sanctuaries, 472 West Mountain Road, Lenox. 6 p.m.

- 7:30 p.m. Enjoy an evening in the valley visiting the beaver ponds. Search for beavers and other kinds of wildlife that are attracted by the series of ponds that the beavers have created. Learn about the natural history of beavers and how they continue to change our landscape 80 years after their reintroduction.

In fact, October 8 is the 80th anniversary of their reintroduction at Pleasant Valley. Adults $5m/ $7nm, Children $3m/ $4nm. Registration not required.

9TUESDAY

2TUESDAY

Fall Scavenger Hunt. Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln.

3:30 - 5 p.m. Search the farm and sanctuary for seeds, cones, berries, brightly colored leaves and look for signs of animals preparing for winter. Follow a scavenger hunt trail as you enjoy your adventure around Drumlin Farm. “Backpack babies” (under 12 months and carried in a backpack or sling) are welcome free of charge, but strollers are not appropriate for the terrain we will cover; please mention these participants when registering. A $8m/ $10nm, C $8m/ $10nm. Call 781-259-2200, massaudubon.org.

4THURSDAY Compass Explorations. Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. 4 p.m.

- 5:30 p.m. Pull out a map and compass and let’s go! What happens if we head north for a while?

courtesy of the hanover theatre

Going to the Garden. Habitat Education Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, 10 Juniper Road, Belmont.

10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Join Jill as she visits Habitat’s Sun/ Moon garden and discover what wonderful things are growing there! There’ll be things to see, smell, touch, hear and perhaps even taste! You never know what surprises a garden will have. We’ll also hear a story about a garden. A $5m/ $6nm, C $5m/ $6nm. Call 617489-5050 to register or online at massaudubon.org.

3WEDNESDAY

Chickadee Birders: Hawk Migration. Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. Raptor migration is a bold and beautiful sight! Chickadee Birders will introduce children ages 7-11 to the basics of birding, bird life, and seasonal migration through talks, activities, and field trips.

A $28m/ $34nm, C $28m/ $34nm. 781-259-2200, massaudubon.org/drumlinprograms.

8MONDAY

ONGOING Toe Jam Puppet Band. Buttonwood Park Zoo, 425 Hawthorn St., New Bedford. Every Monday, 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Zoo admission + $5/family. 508-991-4556, bpzoo.org.

Monarch Tagging Workshop. Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary, 1280 Horseneck Road, Westport. 4 p.m.

- 6 p.m. Be a part of this amazing citizen science project where YOU are the investigator; identifying, collecting and tagging migrating Monarchs as they make their way to sunny Mexico for the winter! FREE. 508-636-2437, massaudubon.org.

p.m. Enjoy a guided tour of this magnificent garden, with seasonal highlights such as summer annuals, the vegetable garden, and a Systematic Garden overview.

Free with admission: A$12, Y $7, C under 6 FREE. 508-869-6111, towerhillbg.org.

Belt out your favorite Von Trapp tune at the Hanover Theatre’s SING-A-LONG Sound of Music event on Friday, Oct. 19 at 7 p.m.

Attleboro. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Join us once a month on the first Friday for a surprise live animal demonstration. Each week we’ll introduce you to a new creature, insect, mammal, amphibian or reptile but we won’t tell...you’ll have to sign up and come to the program to find out about our secret guest. Lots of fun in store for those who are adventurous! A $3m/ $4nm, C $2m/ $3nm. 508-223-3060, massaudubon.org.

Stars Over Springfield. Springfield Science Museum, 21 Edwards St. Springfield, 7:30 p.m.

Join members of the Springfield Stars Club for skygazing in the Science Museum’s observatory. Rain or shine. If overcast, a planetarium show will be presented. A $3, C $2 springfieldmuseums.org.

6SATURDAY Celebrate Franklin Park Zoo’s 100th birthday!

Franklin Park Zoo - Zoo New England, One Franklin Park Road, Dorchester. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Throughout the day, there will be an opportunity for visitors to sign a giant birthday card for the zoo and take a self-guided historical walking tour.

The animals will also join in on the fun as they will

daylong theme that may include experiments, arts and crafts, story time and more. No registration required. massaudubon.org.

Harvest at the Farm. Buttonwood Park Zoo. 425 Hawthorn Street, New Bedford. 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Celebrate fall at the farm in the Zoo! Get a farmer’s eye view from the seat of a tractor and look for a needle in a haystack. Join us for harvestrelated activities for the whole family. Free with zoo admission. 508-991-6178, bpzoo.org.

Turtle Trekkers. Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 108 North Street, Norfolk. 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Start your morning off right with a fun and knowledgeable Stony Brook teacher on the trails learning about nature. Each day will have a special topic created to excite your child about the natural world. There will be crafts, activities and lots of laughter C $8m/ $10nm.

Fee is for parent/child. Best for ages 3-6. 508-5283140, massaudubon.org.

7SUNDAY ONGOING Guided Garden Tours. Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Dr., Boylston. Every Sunday, 2-3

Fall Fireworks. Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. 3:30-5 p.m. Join in the fun as we explore fall colors, create our own autumn rainbow, and enjoy the view from the top of the drumlin. Hear the story of Leaf Man, and make your own leaf creature to take home. For up to three children per adult. “Backpack” babies (under 12 months and carried in a backpack or sling) are welcome free of charge, but please mention them when registering. A $11m/ $13nm, C $11m/ $13nm.

Best for ages 2-9. 781-259-2200, massaudubon.org.

Little Naturalists – Bats. South Shore Regional Office, 2000 Main Street, Marshfield. 9:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. Nature is right in our backyard. Through nature walks, stories, songs and crafts, discover New England animals and how they live. Each month will focus on a different season theme. C $5m/ $7nm. 781837-9400, massaudubon.org.

10WEDNESDAY Afterschool at Joppa: Survey the Subtidal Zone! Joppa Flats Education Center, 1 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Our afternoon starts off with self-guided activities, challenges, or puzzles that lead us to our topic for the day. As a group, we’ll observe, investigate, and compare wildlife, their adaptations, and the changes that they undergo each season. Participants may play the role of an environmentalist, a naturalist, or even a marine biologist throughout this series. Each experience will leave your young scientist eager for the next session. This program is open to children in grades 1 through 4. Parents are welcome to stay during this program. Children $11m/ $15nm. Call 978-462-9998 to register by phone or online at massaudubon.org.

ONGOING Preschool and Toddler Wednesdays.

EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Every Wednesday enjoy a story, meet a live animal and get creative with a supervised craft activity - all geared especially for little ones, age 3 and under. The story and animal circle is held at 10:30 and 11 a.m. DropBAYSTATEPARENT 45

OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO in craft time continues from 10:30 a.m. through 11:30 a.m. Tickets are issued at the Information Desk on a first-come, first-served basis. Museum admission required: A $14, C (2 – 18) $8, C age 2 and under FREE. ecotarium.org.

11THURSDAY

featuring live music, kids’ art activities, a showcase for non-profits and community organizations, Scarecrow Stroll in Rockport and the centerpiece of the festival: the Local Fare Fair, which highlights our amazing Cape Ann and New England food producers.

Caps, Capes and Characters Weekend Festival.

Peabody Essex Museum, East India Square, Salem.

10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Join in the fun at our weekend festival celebrating Hats: An Anthology by Stephen

photographic innovations helped anthropologists expand the study of world cultures with photographs, cameras and video. peabody.harvard.edu.

see what other special surprises are in store this Halloween season. Admission fees apply. 978-422666, davisfarmland.com.

2nd Annual Fall Fairytale Festival. Puppet Showcase Theatre, 32 Station Street, Brookline.

Castles, giants, woodland fairies, talking frogs... do you love fairytales as much as we do? The theatre is proud to once again kick off our season with the annual Fall Fairytale Festival. Experience classics

Caps, Capes and Characters Weekend Festival.

Peabody Essex Museum. See Oct. 13 for detials.

15MONDAY Grossology: The (Impolite) Science of the Human Body. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Explore why your body produces mushy, oozy, crusty, scaly and stinky gunk in Grossology: The (Impolite) Science of the Human Body, the wildly popular exhibit based on the best-selling book. With sophisticated animatronics and imaginative exhibits, Grossology tells the good, the bad and the downright ugly about runny noses, body odor and much more. ecotarium.com.

ONGOING Story Hour at Old Sturbridge Village Book Store. Weekly on Thursday, 9 – 10 a.m. Every week a new story, followed by open play time with old-fashioned toys. osv.org.

Nature Adventures for 5-7 Year Olds. Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Road, Worcester. 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Join us for a hands-on nature program designed especially for five, six, and seven year olds. Each month we’ll focus on a new nature topic. We’ll explore our nature topic indoors using investigations, crafts, and activities and outdoors in Broad Meadow Brook’s beautiful 400-acre wildlife sanctuary. These classes will provide in-depth learning in a supportive social environment.

C 8m/ $12nm. 508-753-6087, massaudubon.org.

16TUESDAY

Kinglet Birders: Duck, Duck, Goose. Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. 3:30-5 p.m. Share with your child the exciting and fascinating world of birds! Meet some of the Drumlin birds up close and explore the outdoors looking and listening for birds. Share knowledge and activities that you can continue at home. This program is designed for one adult with one child; we cannot accommodate backpack babies or more than one child. A $10m/ $13nm, C $10m/ $13nm. Best for ages 4-6. 781-259-2200, massaudubon.org.

Halloween Hike at Boo Meadow Brook. Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Road, Worcester. 6:30-8:30 p.m. At sundown, Broad Meadow Brook transforms into a magical, slightly haunted forest. Meet our resident spirits, primarily native wildlife, during a gentle guided tour through the woods on the trails lit by softly glowing luminaria.

Encounter old favorites and new characters on your walk as you learn about some of the creatures of New England and their many fascinating habits. A $5m/ $6nm, C $5m/ $6nm. 508-753-6087, massaudubon.org.

13SATURDAY FREE The Rockport HarvestFest. Downtown Rockport. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Family-focused event

courtesy of the children’s museum in easton

12FRIDAY

Wear your favorite Halloween costume and fall under their spell at the Halloween Romp on Saturday, Oct. 20 from 2 to 4 p.m. or 6 to 8 p.m. at the Children’s Museum in Easton.

The event is held rain or shine at the museum.

Jones. Explore hats, costumes and imagination through lively storytelling, mime performances and artist demonstrations. Make your own hat and costume accessories to wear home! Included with museum admission. pem.org.

14SUNDAY From Daguereotype to Digital: Photography and Anthropology (special exhibition). Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, 11 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Explores how

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like Cinderella and The Magic of Hans Christian Andersen while discovering original adaptations like Jack Tuesday: Fairytale Investigator. We’ve fit more beanstalks, princesses, and house-building pigs than you can imagine onto our stage. puppetshowcase.org.

Moo Moo’s Halloween Party. Davis Farmland, 145 Redstone Hill Road, Sterling. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

It’s a nonstop; jam packed party where Moo-Moo’s Halloween spirit runs wild! Come in your favorite Halloween costume and join Moo-Moo in our spooktacular parade featuring all of our farmland friends.

Paint a pumpkin, play some fright-free games, and

After School Art. Children’s Museum in Easton, 9 Sullivan Avenue, North Easton. 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. You will get the chance to use a variety of materials and techniques to make cool projects like printmaking, clay sculpture and tie dye. By learning new artistic skills, you will have the chance to express yourself in fun, creative ways! After School Art does not require registration and is free with paid admission to the museum.

17WEDNESDAY Exploring Music. Children’s Museum in Easton. 9 Sullivan Ave, North Easton. You will get the chance to participate in a variety of creative musical activities such as singing, rhythm-making, and dramatic interpretation. By listening and moving to the music, you will learn about the many different forms and styles! Exploring Music does not require registration and is free with paid admission to the museum.

Program does not run during school vacation weeks.

508-230-3789, childrensmuseumineaston.org.

18THURSDAY Tater Tots. Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. 1-2:30 p.m.

It’s potato digging time in our potato patch! What color will they be? Harvest, wash, chop, cook, and eat to your heart’s content. All ages welcome, but no backpack babies, please. Suitable for children 0 - 7 years.

A $11m/ $13nm, C $11m/ $13nm. 781-259-2200, massaudubon.org.

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Story Hour at the Old Sturbridge Village Book Store. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge. Every week a new story, followed by open play time with old-fashioned toys.

Adults will receive a discount coupon for use in the Gift Shop. 508-347-0244, osv.org.

OH,THEPLACESYOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LLGO Copley Square Farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market. Copley Square, Boston. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Approximately 20 vendors will be on hand on opening day offering local and seasonal fruits and vegetables, baked goods, jams & jellies, cheese, meats, and much more. There will be local produce from Atlas Farms, Siena Farms, Silverbrook Farm, and others; baked goods from Danish Pastry House and Sofra; roasted nuts from Fastachi; fresh mozzarella from Fiore Di Nonno; and primo sandwiches from Iggyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bread.

Mom to Mom Program. Trinity Church, 14 Wattaquadock Hill Road, Bolton. 9:15 to 11 a.m. Mom to Mom is a relaxing and informative time for moms to connect with other moms. Coffee, refreshments and childcare (infants through K) are provided, along with encouragement and inspiration through biblically based teaching on topics such as parenting, health, and relationships. Topics this fall include: understanding allergies, forgiving others, teaching manners to children, and more! trinitybolton.org.

24WEDNESDAY Wind Eagle. Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln 1- 2:30 p.m. Soaring, diving, following the thermals, hawks and warblers have moved on to warmer places. Hear the story of the wind eagle and visit with one of our resident migrators. Make a soaring craft to take home and something to hang out for the birds on their way south. Suitable for children 0 - 9 years. 781-259-2200, massaudubon.org.

FREE Support Group for Parents with children who have emotional disturbances. Wayside Youth & Family Support Network 118 Central Street, Waltham. 6:30 to 9 p.m. Are you the parent or caregiver of a child or young adult with behavioral or mental health issues? Are you feeling alone and isolated? Are you overwhelmed by dealing with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, paperwork and phone calls, or just â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;burned outâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;? Do you know how to access medical, mental health or special education services for your child? Do you just need to talk to other parents & caregivers who understand? 781-891-0555, waysideyouth.org.

20SATURDAY Fall Colors Photography Workshop. Mass Audubonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary 280 Eliot Street (Rt.16), Natick. 1 to 4 p.m. Join in the midst of fall colors as we work with exposure, reflections and other techniques to create dramatic effects with fall foliage. A great chance to work with a pro and practice with your wide angle lens! Limited class size for personal instruction.

Pre-registration required. Online registration available.

508-655-2296, massaudubon.org.

Great Pumpkin Fest 2012. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. 12-9 p.m. A full day and evening of family-friendly Halloween fun with creative displays of hundreds of carved pumpkins (lit after dark), free hayrides and train rides, free digital planetarium shows, games and crafts, animal encounters, science tricks for Halloween, pumpkincarving demonstration, and more! $15, EcoTarium M $12 C under 2 FREE. 508-929-2700, ecotarium.org.

Harvest Days. Old Sturbridge Village, One Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge. 9:30 a.m. -5 p.m. Visitors can learn to plow behind the Village oxen, and try their hands at digging potatoes, threshing grain, husking corn, shelling beans, harvesting apples and pressing cider. Free with admission. 508-347-3362, osv.org. Also Oct. 21.

21SUNDAY Fall Foliage Afternoon Canoe on the Charles.

Mass Audubonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280

Family Gallery Explorations at PEM. Peabody Essex Museum, East India Square, Salem. 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m. These 30-minute gallery adventures are designed just for families. Hands-on activity included. Perfect for families with children ages 5 and up. No reservations required. Meet at information desk. pem.org.

Step back into history at the King Richardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Faire through Oct. 21 at 235 Main St., Carver.

Eliot St. (Rt.16), Natick. 1 to 4 p.m. Paddle one of the most beautiful stretches of the Charles River during the peak of leaf color change. Enjoy the many colors along the bank and the smell of wild grapes.

Relax and watch for the many animals found in and around the river. (Paddlers must be at least 12 years of age.) Canoes, paddles, lifejackets, a basic paddling overview & guides are all provided. Preregistration required. Online registration available. massaudubon.org.

King Richardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Faire. 235 Main Street, Carver.

10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tucked away on 80 acres of beautiful, enchanted forest off Route 58, King Richardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Faire is a full day of live, interactive entertainment for all ages, including exotic tigers and a rare liger, daring knights jousting on horseback, and eight stages filled with song and dance. Every Saturday, themed events add variety to the festivallike entertainment lineup (see kingrichardsfaire.net for special Saturday schedule).

Harvest Days. Old Sturbridge Village. See Oct. 20 listing for details.

22MONDAY Caterpillar Club. See Oct. 1 listing.

Storied Walls: Murals of the Americas. Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, 11 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Features largescale drawings, photographs, and actual pieces of murals from the Awatovi, Maya, and Moche cultures.

From New Mexico and Guatemala to the desert cities of Peru, the murals provide a rare and unique glimpse into the past. peabody.harvard.edu/calendar.

25THURSDAY

of puppetry through hands-on exploration of the materials and performance methods used by professional puppeteers. Participants will survey basic puppetry construction methods, build their own puppets, and learn the basics techniques for making puppets come to life. puppetshowcase.org.

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Henny Penny. . Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. 3:30-5 p.m. Join in as we act out the story of Henny Penny and follow her adventures. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll explore the farm looking for Cocky Locky and Ducky Wucky, but watch out for Foxy Loxy.

We will also do some chores in the chicken house and check to see if Henny Penny has laid an egg. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hope the sky doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fall! Suitable for children 0 - 7 years. A $11m/ $13nm, C $11m/ $13nm. 781-2592200, massaudubon.org.

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19FRIDAY

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Pumpkin Carving Party Assign three to four children to each of three large pumpkins and have the “teams” decide how to carve them. The children can scoop out the insides and the adults can carve the design.

A panel of ‘judges’ can choose the winning pumpkin, and the winning team can choose how to use the pumpkins innards (roast the seeds, pumpkin pie, cookies, cupcakes, etc.).

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To advertise, call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or email stephaniep@baystateparent.com 48 OCTOBER2012

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Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll Get You Through the Day! Find baystateparent on Facebook and Twitter.

BAYSTATEPARENT 49

OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO Continued from page 7 able to explore various art mediums as they are introduced to the colorful and creative world of art.

They will become young artists as the learn how to make their own special masterpieces! Preschool Art does not require registration and is free with paid admission to the museum. Admission is $7.50 per person; members and children under 1 are free. For more information, please feel free to call, 508-2303789, childrensmuseumineaston.org.

for a family Halloween event. Spooky storytelling, magic, creepy games, and trick-or-treating around the Center Village. The Trail of Terror ($8 ages 11 & up) is also back this year. $15NM; $12M OSV; children under 3 FREE. 508-347-3362, osv.org.

Avenue, Cambridge. 12 to 3 p.m. Features conservators working in the Hall of the North American Indian gallery on historic Alutiiq kayaks and more. For more information, call 617-496-1027.

Creepy Crawlies. Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. 1-2:30 p.m. Where do the things that creep, crawl, and slither hide? What makes them skitter out of sight? Let’s go searching to find a creepy spider or a slimy slug. We will meet someone who searches and likes to eat creepy crawlies. Make your own creepy crawly to take home.

Suitable for children 0 - 7 years. A $11.00m/ $13nm, C$11m/ $13nm. 781-259-2200, massaudubon.org.

Boo at the Zoo. Buttonwood Park Zoo. 425 Hawthorn Street, New Bedford. 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

There’s enough thrills and chills for everyone at Boo at the Zoo! Join us at Boo at the Zoo for an evening of Halloween fun! Rides are included in the Boo admission. Climb aboard for a spoooooky train ride or take a bewitching carousel ride! It’s slightly scary fun for all ages! M, A $8; C$5, NM, A $13; C $10.

508-991-6178, bpzoo.org.

27SATURDAY Not So Spooky Spectacular. Children’s Museum of New Hampshire, 6 Washington Street, Dover NH. For families seeking a fall event that focuses more on fun than fright. Visitors are welcome to come in costume and enjoy a variety of activities including non-food trick-or-treating throughout the museum, amazing experiments by the museum’s own Wacky Scientists, face painting, pumpkin projects and more.

All activities are include with paid admission ($9 adults/children, $8 seniors) and free for museum members and children under 1 year old. 603-7422002, childrens-museum.org.

Things That Go Bump in the Night. Old Sturbridge Village, One Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge.

6:30 p.m. Old Sturbridge Village is the perfect setting

The Davis Farmland Mega Maze is open through to Nov. 12 with extended, flashlight mazing hours until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights through Oct. 28.

28SUNDAY Creepy Crawlies. Mass Audubon’s Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary 280 Eliot St. (Route 16), Natick. 1 to 2 p.m. It is almost Halloween! How do you hiss without using your mouth? Breathe without lungs or gills?

Move if you don’t have legs? This program features some of the strange and creepy critters from our wild and wacky world of animals. You’ll meet tarantulas, amphibians, snakes and even some cool cockroaches!

Pre-registration required. massaudubon.org.

29MONDAY Alaska’s Historic Kayaks Renewed. Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, 11 Divinity

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Submit An Event Fill out our form at baystateparent.com

by October 5.

Check us out online at www. baystateparent. com

30TUESDAY Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/ baystateparent.com and sign up for our weekly e-mail newsletter at baystateparent.com.

The Baby Belly Bell SariBlue has combined our signature Turkish Evil Eye bead, intended to protect you and your unborn child from negative energy, with the subtle and lovely sounding Mexican Bola Chime, designed to peacefully soothe mother and baby.

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50 OCTOBER2012

FREE & ONGOING Overlook Farm. Heifer International, 216 Wachusett St., Rutland. Take a self-guided tour in this scenic spot and learn about the good that Heifer does to feed people all over the world. Visit different homes in the Global Village, meet farm animals, shop in the fair trade store.

Bathrooms, picnic areas and more! 508-886-2221, heifer.org/visit/overlook-farm.

Exploring Music. Children’s Museum in Easton.

9 Sullivan Ave, North Easton. 10 to 10:45 a.m.

You will get the chance to participate in a variety of creative musical activities such as singing, rhythmmaking, and dramatic interpretation. By listening and moving to the music, you will learn about the many different forms and styles! Exploring Music does not require registration and is free with paid admission to the museum. Program does not run during school vacation weeks. $7.50 per person; members and children under 1 are free. For more information, please feel free to call, 508-230-3789, childrensmuseumineaston.org.

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courtesy of davis farmland and mega maze

26FRIDAY

Ghoullog at Cranmore Mountain. Cranmore Mountain Resort, North Conway, NH. 6 to 11 p.m.

An outbreak of haunt has spread throughout the mountain as the 6th season of the Ghoullog is upon us, with added acres of terror and two individual haunts, sure to send shards of fear through your veins. An unknown chariot awaits your arrival, to take you away to one of the two spine-tingling sites.

You will be given 50 minutes to make it through, the only thing we ask is that you make it out alive.

603-356-5544.

31WEDNESDAY

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The exclusive SariBlue Baby Belly Bell is an excellent gift for any expectant mother or a special memento for yourself and your impending arrival. handcrafted…eco-friendly…customizable SariBlue• www.sariblue.com

BulletinBoard

To advertise call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or email stephaniep@baystateparent.com CPRCLASSES

MUSICCLASSES

SURROGACY /,37 >(5;,+

CPR Training & Re-certification

TUTORING

The Knowledge

Quest

CPR Angel

Professional/ Healthcare provider level CPR AED /First Aid

Vocational child care training with CPR certification EMS Safety Certified instructor A.H.A. and Red Cross guidelines exceeded

-IND %XPANDING !CTIVITIES

TUTORING

www.cprangel.com 978-424-5483

Serving the baystate Classroom and mobile training available.

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The milc room is mother to mother breast feeding support with professional help by appointment or referral

-ATH s 2EADING s 7RITING 3TUDY 3KILLS s 3!4 0REP !LGEBRA 7ORKSHOPS Special Ed & Learning Disability Instruction

ACADEMIC EARLY EDUCATION A Readiness Program for 4 & 5 year olds.

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623 Chandler Street Tatnuck Square, Worcester Tel: 508-797-5050 Fax: 508-797-5051 www.theknowledgequest.com

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s Peer support, lactation guidance s Referrals for lactation follow-up care, classes s On-site resources: baby scale, reference library

214 Lake St, Shrewsbury, Open Thursdays 10am - noon 480 Main St., Holden, Open Tuesdays 10am - noon www.themilcroom.com Recommended by Pediatricians and run by CertiďŹ ed Lactation Consultants.

We welcome ALL mothers who want to breastfeed their baby.

MUSICCLASSES

eee Q]`\S`ab]\SOQORS[g ]`U

Tutoring Service Available for Grades K-6

5`ORSa 9 $ A quality education founded on the four foundations (Education, Character, Social Responsibility and Family) that are the Cornerstones to Life.

# =OY /dS\cS Â&#x2019; <]`bVP]`] ;/ #! # & !# ''%$ email:kmcquade@cornerstoneacademy.org

5 Oak Avenue â&#x20AC;˘ Northboro, MA 01532 508 351-9976 www.cornerstoneacademy.org email:kmcquade@cornerstoneacademy.org

Â&#x201D;Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x192;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2026;Â&#x192;Â&#x17D;Â&#x17D;Â&#x203A; Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2019;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2021; Â&#x203A;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2014;Â&#x201D; Â&#x2026;Â&#x160;Â&#x2039;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2020;ĚľÂ&#x2022; Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021;Â&#x192;Â&#x2020;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2030; Â&#x2022;Â?Â&#x2039;Â&#x17D;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2022; Â&#x201E;Â&#x203A; Â&#x2014;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2030; Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2039;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2018;Â? Â&#x2014;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x2022;Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D;Â&#x203A; Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2030;Â&#x2014;Â&#x192;Â&#x2030;Â&#x2021; Â&#x201D;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2030;Â&#x201D;Â&#x192;Â?Ǥ Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D; Â&#x2019;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x192;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2013;Â&#x2014;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2030;ÇĄ Â&#x2026;Â&#x192;Â&#x17D;Â&#x17D; Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2020;Â&#x192; Â&#x192;Â&#x2013; ͡Ͳͺnj͚͸͝nj͡ʹͲ͡Ǥ

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BulletinBoard

To advertise call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or email stephaniep@baystateparent.com BAYSTATEPARENT 51

If you’re looking to reach parents that are looking for you, look no further.

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Comprehensive and Caring Early Intervention Services for Children Birth to 3 Years Old Early intervention is crucial for a child whose development is delayed. Criterion programs provide support, education and individualized therapy services to help parents and caregivers promote their child’s maximum development.

We offer a full range of programs in the home or at our EI centers located in communities statewide. Our services include: s $EVELOPMENTAL %VALUATION s $EVELOPMENTAL %NRICHMENT 'ROUPS s (OME 6ISITS s 0ARENT 'ROUPS s 0HYSICAL /CCUPATIONAL and Speech Therapy s 2ESOURCES AND 2EFERRALS

Where Creativity Comes to Play New locations in

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& 2 ! - ) . ' ( ! - s ' ! 2 $ . % 2 s - ! , $ % . s - ) , & / 2 $ s 0! , - % 2 s 3 / 5 4 ( ( ! $ , % 9 s 7 / " 5 2 . s 7 ( ) 4 ) . 3 6 ) , , % s 7 % 3 4 2 /8 " 5 29

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Maya is doing more than learning to write her name.

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From the moment they’re born, children can’t wait to start exploring, discovering and learning. In fact, children do their most important learning before age five.

Everything Next Generation does is designed to help your child grow physically, socially, emotionally and intellectually – and have fun while doing it! Choose a leader in early childhood education. Choose Next Generation Children’s Centers.

Next Generation Children’s Centers A Leader In Early Childhood Education 866-711-NGCC • NGCCenters.com Andover • Beverly • Franklin • Hopkinton • Marlborough • Natick • Sudbury • Walpole • Westborough • Westford BAYSTATEPARENT 53

INDEX

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A Place to Grow.........................................................50 Adventure Bootcamp ..................................................38 Applewild School .......................................................31 Attorney James Connors .............................................53 Ballet Arts Worcester ..................................................10 Bancroft School .........................................................56 Barrett Family Wellness ..............................................10 Baystate Skating School .............................................10 Beacon ...................................................................41 Becker College ..........................................................13 Blossom Station ..........................................................5 Boks Kids .................................................................43 Boroughs JCC ............................................................47 Brighton School .........................................................37 Cape Clogs ...............................................................35 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dentistry of Northborough.............................36 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Music Academy ...........................................24 City of Leominster......................................................17 Clay Time .................................................................26 CoCo Key Water Resort...............................................54 Commerce Bank ........................................................55 Consign My Closet .....................................................25 Cornerstone Academy ...................................................3 Criterion ...................................................................53 Cutie Patuties ..............................................................2 Danforth ...................................................................50 Davis Farmland......................................................8, 46 Dexter Southfield School.............................................31 Dr. McCarty...............................................................38 Dr. Mel Pediatric Dentistry ...........................................35 Ecotarium .................................................................20 Fay School ...............................................................43 Fidelity .......................................................................4

Helena Goessens Photography .....................................25 Guild of St. Agnes Day Care ..........................................6 Health Source ...........................................................41 Inn at East Hill ..........................................................11 iParty .......................................................................20 Judge Bakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Children Center .....................................36 Knowledge Quest.........................................................6 Living Earth...............................................................27 Mary Kay Cosmetics...................................................34 Mass Audobon ..........................................................15 MGC ........................................................................36 New Horizon Karate & Fitness .....................................12 Newton Wellesly..........................................................7 Next Generation ........................................................53 Pakachoag Music .......................................................11 Panera .....................................................................32 Parenting Solutions ....................................................11 Paula Swift Photography.............................................23 Roche Bros. ..............................................................32 Schartner Farms ........................................................41 Shrewsbury Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center ......................................15 Shrewsbury Montessori...............................................24 Simon Malls..............................................................26 Skribbles ..................................................................12 Smiling Kids ..............................................................36 St. Judes ..................................................................39 West End Creamery ...................................................20 Westborough Wicks ...................................................37 Wheelock Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Theatre........................................54 Women Earning Six Figures.........................................34 Worcester Academy of Music .......................................23 YMCA of Central Mass ................................................37

CLASSIFIEDS Money Tight?

Is your pay gone after paying the bills? Are you using credit to get by? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to call the Budget Coach! Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s get started working on a Budget today!

TheBudgetCoachHelp.com or 508-792-9087

Surrogate Mothers Needed Earn up to $28,000. Established Surrogacy Agency seeks loving women ages 21-43, to carry couples biological babies. You must be a non-smoker, and prior birth experience is required. Be a part of a miracle. For more information, please call 888-363-9457 or visit our website: www.reproductivepossibilities.com

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BAYSTATEPARENT 55

friend

actor

scientist

musician

Fall Open House October 21 at 1:30 pm

A rounded education.

A grounded experience.

Bancroft students in Lower School explore the world in a safe, exciting, and nurturing environment. They retain their curiosity and expressive nature as they learn by imagining, questioning, and creating.

Lower, Middle, & Upper Schools

56 OCTOBER2012

110 Shore Drive Worcester, MA 01605 508.854.9227 www.bancroftschool.org