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May 2016
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May 2016
Every Issue 6
Dear Reader
8
Bits and Pieces
29
10 Features
Gone Fishin’ Get Your Groove On Patriotic Pomp From Heart to Hand Wrapped in Beauty Yee Haw! It’s Rodeo Time! Put on Your Dancing Shoes
22 Family Fun Queen for a Day
7
We Got a Gold! Mendo Lake Family Life
awarded for design and editorial excellence.
10 Risky Business
24 Calendar of Events History in Action
30 Humor Break Shower SOS
Is it teen rebellion? Or something to worry about?
14 No Drop-Off Day Blues Make the first day of camp a happy one.
16 Summer Camp Adventure Guide Get the scoop on 58 terrific local camps.
8 4 MendoLakeFamilyLife
22 May 2016 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
To Honor One is to Honor All A Tribal Community Event to Celebrate Success in Academic Achievement Thursday, June 9, 2016 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Lake County Fairgrounds 401 Martin Street, Lakeport Join us in promoting higher education and celebrating Lake County’s Native American graduates from Junior High School, High School, College, Adult Education, GED, Job Skills, College Certificate and Lake County Preschool programs. NATIVE GRADUATES: To honor you on stage at this event, please contact us no later than Friday, June 3.
CONTACT:
Debbie Robison for more info 707-263-8382 x1313, drobison@lcthc.org “This event is partially funded by the Affordable Care Act of 2010, by the Administration of Children & Families (ACF). This does not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the ACF.”
Lake County Tribal Health Modern Medicine
Personalized Care
707-263-8382 • 1-800-750-7181 • 925 Bevins Ct., Lakeport • www.lcthc.com
Dear Reader
F
rom celebrating Mom to smelling roses, May is a month of delight. We are particularly happy to announce that Sharon Gowan Publisher/Editor our articles won Sharon@family-life.us four Silver Awards at the international Parenting Media Association Editorial and Design Awards Competition. What’s more, our August 2015 cover garnered a gold! See “We Won Big!” (page 7) for the scoop. Mendo Lake Family Life is proud
to offer in every issue a broad range of local activities for families. For instance, if you are looking for terrific, local ways to spend Mother’s Day, just turn to “Queen
for a Day” (page 22). Perhaps you just want a fabulous weekend of family fun, see our calendar (page 32) for tons of area kid-friendly events.
Office Manager Patricia Ramos patty@family-life.us
If anyone loves to dream up ways to have a good time, it’s teenagers. But, unfortunately, some kids’ play puts them in harm’s way. How do you know when to be worried? Check out “Risky Business” (page 10) for constructive advice on navigating the tricky terrain of adolescent risk-taking.
Business Marketing Renee Nutcher renee@family-life.us Marie Anderson marie@family-life.us
Have a safe and happy spring! We’ll be here to make sure the summer to come is a blast.
Leanna Wetmore leanna@family-life.us
Features Editor Melissa Chianta melissa@family-life.us
Production Manager Donna Bogener production@family-life.us
On-Line Social Media Jean Flint Jean@family-life.us
Contributing Writers Jane Barteau Alexa Bigwarfe Adam Breiner Sandra Gordon Holly Hester Janeen Lewis Denise Morrison Yearian
Billing Jan Wasson-Smith
Family health care for all of Lake County.
sutterlakeside.org
6 MendoLakeFamilyLife
Hospital Services 707-262-5000 Community Clinic 707-263-6885 After Hours Care 707-262-5088
Publishing Office 134 Lystra Court, Suite A Santa Rosa, CA 95403 Tel (707) 586-9562 Fax (707) 586-9571
May 2016 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
We Got a Gold! Mendo Lake Family Life Honored at International Competition
mendo lake FREE!
November 2015
W
Twin Talk
e were thrilled when we found out that Mendo Lake Family Life was honored at the international Parenting Media Association (PMA) Editorial and Design Awards Competition, which recognizes regional family publications across the country for excellence in journalism, photography, and design.
Advice on multiples
Mendo Lake Family Life beat out stiff competition to win the top award in the nation for the best front cover. Our November 2015 “Twin Talk” cover garnered a Gold Award for the Best Use of Stock Photography. The happy faces, bright smiles, and vibrant colors of our twins really caught the judges’ attention!
Start-up Stars Help locals thrive
“Parents simply want the best for their families,” says Sharon Gowan, founder and publisher of Mendo Lake Family Life. “As a truly local publication, we’re very proud to be the number one resource guide for parents planning family fun in Mendocino and Lake Counties. We’re grateful for our readers and a wonderful, internationally recognized staff.” ¶
Like it or not, digital romance is here to stay. The stigma that was once attached to it has passed. Fifty-nine percent of Americans have decided that online dating is a good way to meet people. One quarter of online daters have entered into a marriage or long-term relationship with someone they met on online. You probably know some of them. I myself have been seeing for more than a year a
Fifty-nine percent of Americans have decided that online dating is a good way to meet people. man I met on OKCupid. And I know of a handful of other people who are either married or committed to someone they first met in cyberspace.
Cyber L Dating Will You Find Romance Online?
8 MendoLakeFamilyLife
May 2016
oneliness is part of the human condition. We all “want somebody to love,” to quote Jefferson Airplane. And for lots of people friendship doesn’t cut it. They want a mate. But where to find one if bars and parties just aren’t your thing? Well if you’re like 38 percent of what the Pew Research Center calls “single and looking Americans,” you’ve posted a profile online or have used a dating app.
February 2015
www.mendolakefamilylife.com
Among my friends (names have been changed), writer Sally met her new wife, Barb, a web designer, on Match.com. Graphic designer Dan met his partner, Joni, a therapist, on OkCupid, and now they are planning to have children together. And my favorite example, Bridget, met her now husband in an online game of poetry tag. Google “stories of couples who met online” and you’ll find many more such examples. So if you’re looking for a mate, maybe it’s not such a bad idea to try the online world of romance. But as my mom always told me, you’ve gotta take the bad with the good. And, trust me, there’s plenty of bad. For a preview, read Salon.com blogger Victoria Carlson’s August 2011 post “OKCupid, I’m Done” in which the Los Angeles writer and single mom
details some colossally wretched dates, like the unemployed man who lived with his mother and used unspeakably derogatory language to describe women, or the guy who admitted he occasionally beat his dog, or the one who chain-smoked and went on and on about how much he couldn’t stand his ex-wife. Her experiences fall in line with a Marin County woman I spoke with, I’ll call her Helen, who had endured many a man behaving inappropriately. Men have their horror stories, too. A Sonoma County man (I’ll name him Ben) who’s been online dating on and off since 2004 shared several tales with me. There was the time that a woman he’d spent the day hiking with and then took out for a drink told him bluntly, not five seconds after he paid what had become her $120 bar bill, “I want you to know that at no time during this day have I ever thought there was
www.mendolakefamilylife.com
February 2015
any chemistry between us.” And he never saw her again. Or the woman who sent him an excessively vitriolic communication simply because, after a few brief friendly e-mail exchanges, he’d politely declined her request to go out on a date.
“There’s no etiquette. People act in ways they would never act in the real world.”—Ben “There’s no etiquette. People act in ways they would never act in the real world. And it can be very hurtful, especially for newbies,” he says. While these kinds of stories abound, there are plenty of online dating experiences that aren’t awful, just perplexing. I put those in what I call my “Say What?” file. For example, the No Show-ers, such as the woman with whom Ben spent several months MendoLakeFamilyLife 9
Family Fun Gualala Point Regional Park
Camptastic!
L
ooking for a great place to camp with your family? Well, if you live in Mendocino or Lake Counties, you don’t have to go far; the magnificent Mendocino Coast and beautiful Clear Lake, not to mention regional and state parks, are in your backyard. Word up: Most of the places listed here are popular, especially on the weekends, so be sure to make reservations to secure a campsite. All have showers (some coin-operated) and flush toilets as well as nighttime quiet policies so everyone can stay clean, comfy, and well rested. Want to bring your dog along? You can, as long as Fido stays on a leash that is no longer than six feet. So pack up the tent and sleeping bags, hand out the trail mix, and ready yourselves for an amazing outdoor adventure—or just a big helping of Ahhhh.
18 MendoLakeFamilyLife
www.mendolakefamilylife.com
5 steps to gratitude
The NAPPA guide
By Jane Barteau
The PMA awards “recognize the best work done in our industry,” says PMA President Mary Cox. “Our collective goal is to make parenting easier—after all, it’s the most important job in the world— and an even more fun ride.”
Give Thanks
12 Great Gifts
We were also honored for the following articles: “Cyber Dating” (February 2015), on the do’s and don’ts of Internet relationships; “Help! My Teenager Fell in Love Online” (February 2015), on teen digital romance; “Over the River and through the Woods” (June 2015), “a colorful roadmap for a fabulous weekend”; “Camptastic!” (April 2015), a well-researched article on local campgrounds; and our hilarious humor column by local mom Holly Hester.
MENDOCINO COUNTY Anchor Bay Campground, Gualala If you want to get away from the fog, come to this campground, which is set in what is known as the Banana Belt—a microclimate that, thanks to the shape of the coast and the direction of the winds, is almost fog-free. Campsites are situated in a narrow gulch that is populated with redwoods; they have the only direct access available to the ¾-mile Anchor Bay Beach, which is covered by white sand in the warmer months. Restrooms are equipped with electrical outlets and coin-operated showers. There is also a dump station. The campground is handicap accessible. Dogs must be licensed. Quiet time begins at 10 p.m. Sites are $40 per night. To make reservations, go to abcamp.com or call 884-4222. April 2015
8 Terrific Places to Pitch a Family Tent Gualala Point Regional Park, Gualala At this 195-acre park, you can hike through meadows and forest, get inspired by coastal vistas, and wiggle your toes in sandy beaches. (Just watch out for sleeper waves; they are common along the north coast.) The campground, which is handicap accessible, is nestled among redwoods right next to the Gualala River. Restrooms have electrical outlets; there is also a dump station. Quiet time is 10 p.m.–7 a.m. Canines cost $2 per dog per night. Campsites are $32 per night, which includes one vehicle and one tow. A nonrefundable fee of $9.50 is charged for each reservation, and cancellation fees may apply. Book online at sonomacountycamping.org or by calling 565-2267. www.mendolakefamilylife.com
MacKerricher State Park, Fort Bragg Little feet can easily take this park’s Laguna Point boardwalk to two ocean platforms from where your family can whale-watch— an especially nice activity during April and May. Hike, bike, or run on Haul Road, which is several miles long and eventually leads to Ten Mile Beach. On the beach, you can go tide pooling while you watch Snowy Plovers frolic and seals sun themselves. Cook over an open fire; a nearby store makes it easy to resupply your camp pantry. Many of the park’s amenities, including restrooms and two paved campgrounds, are accessible. Pets must be kept in a tent or vehicle at night. Quiet time is 10 p.m.–6 a.m. Sites are $25–$35 per night. Reservations may be made at parks.ca.gov or by calling 800-444-7275 (TTY 800-274-7275).
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April 2015
MendoLakeFamilyLife 19
MendoLakeFamilyLife 7
Bits & Pieces
Get Your Groove On
I
Gone Fishin’
S
ee who can catch the biggest fish in Clear Lake at the 33rd Annual Catfish Derby in Clearlake Oaks. Three divisions of anglers—adults, kids 10 and under, and kids 11–15 years old—will compete for more than $10,000 in cash and prizes. First prize in the adult division is $4,000. Registration starts at noon on May 12; fishing begins at noon on May 13 and ends at noon on May 15. Take a break from the sit-and-wait with a barbecue lunch on May 14 and 15. For registration forms received before 11 p.m. on May 12, entry fees are $40 for adults; after May 12, the fee goes up to $50. Children 15 and under are $10. For more information, including downloadable registration forms, see clearlakeoaks.org/derby, or call 998-1006. ¶
f dancing to rock ’n roll under an open sky says “summer” to you, then come hear Funky Dozen play outside behind the Greenview Restaurant on May 20, 5–8 p.m. The Ukiah band offers a mix of tunes from (mostly) the 1970s, but also the eighties and nineties, citing the likes of KC and the Sunshine Band, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, and James Brown as favorite artists. Twelve musicians make for multilayered arrangements that include guitar, percussion, horns, and vocals. The free performance is part of the Hidden Valley Lake Association’s Concert on the Green series. A barbecue will be available for $5–$12. ¶
Patriotic Pomp
W
hat’s Memorial Day weekend without a parade? Come see all manner of decorated objects—cars, horses, people, and pets—walk, saunter, and cruise down Lower Lake’s Main Street on May 29 at 11 a.m. After you watch the spectacle, hop over to Russell Rustici County Park for a barbecue and peruse through arts and crafts booths. You can also check out vintage and antique cars parked on upper Main Street. Activities, all part of the Lower Lake Daze, run until 3 p.m. If you would like to participate in the parade, call Lonne Sloan at 995-2515, or pick up a parade application at the Chamber of Commerce in Lakeport or at Barreda’s Lower Lake Feed Store in Lower Lake. If you’d like to sell your wares at a booth, call Shelia Bening at 995-0614. ¶
8 MendoLakeFamilyLife
From Heart to Hand
T
he air will be crackling with creativity at the Ninth Annual Fine Arts Fair, where 20 local artists will show—and make—an array of handcrafted finery. Check out jewelry, photography, hand-painted silks, woodworking, ceramics, and art glass. If you get hungry from all the browsing, there will be plenty of good eats for sale, including handmade, wood-fired pizza. The free event runs May 28 and 29, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., both days, at the Gualala Arts Center in Gualala. See gualalaarts.org for more information. ¶
May 2016 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
Wrapped in Beauty
Q
uilts have captured our collective imagination for as long as they have kept us warm. Feast your eyes on this beautiful textile art at Quilts in Bloom: 2016 Quilt Show and Artists’ Marketplace, featuring the brightly colored Modern Dresden designs of Anelie Belden. Take part in painting parties, vendors’ Make and Take demos, and silent auctions, too. You may even win a door prize! The event will take place at the Redwood Empire Fairgrounds in Ukiah on May 21, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and May 22, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Tickets are $8 for one day or $10 for two days. Pre-sale tickets are $6 and available at Beverly’s Fabrics, the Mendocino Book Company, and Village Sewing in Ukiah; Kerrie’s Quilting in Lakeport; Bird Brain Designs in Kelseyville; Bolt in Cloverdale; and Sew ’n Sew Fabrics in Fort Bragg. For more information, see ukiahgrapevinequilters.webs.com. ¶
Put on Your Dancing Shoes
U
ptown glamour meets downhome sensibilities at the Denim and Diamonds charity event, which benefits Rotary of Kelseyville Sunrise. Dine on red wine–braised Black Angus boneless short ribs or a Petit Basque cheese and ratatouille tart, then burn off your meal dancing to the high-energy rock ’n roll of local band LC Diamonds. Enter a 50/50 raffle or bid on items like an airplane ride or dinner for six at a live auction. The event will be held at the Chacewater Winery and Olive Mill in Kelseyville on May 14, 6–10 p.m. Tickets are $75 each and are available at Steele Wines and Saw Shop Bistro in Kelseyville and the Travel Centers in Lakeport. ¶
Yee Haw! It’s Rodeo Time!
G
et a taste of the Old West at the Potter Valley Spring Festival and Rodeo, May 27–30. The 70-year-old tradition is packed with lassoing, ax throwing, and woodcutting. And there’s a parade and barbecue, too. Events take place at the Rodeo Grounds in Potter Valley, except for the parade and the chicken barbecue, both of which will be held on Main Street. All-day passes for May 28 and 29 are $10; children 10 and under get in for free. Several events, such as the gymkhana, Junior Rodeo Slack, and CCPRA and Local Rodeo Slack, are free to everyone. See pottervalleyrodeo.com for a full schedule and ticket prices. ¶ www.mendolakefamilylife.com
May 2016
MendoLakeFamilyLife 9
Risky Business By Melissa Chianta
How to Help Teens Make Tough Choices
It was 11:30 p.m. and Kathleen Stafford was anxious for her 16-year-old son to come home. When he walked in on schedule, as she knew he would, she let out a sigh of relief and went to bed. It wasn’t until the
next morning when she discovered that her normally conscientious teen had snuck out in the middle of the night to get high on Xanax and alcohol with friends. He almost didn’t make it home alive.
10 MendoLakeFamilyLife
A shocked Stafford was forced to confront a reality many parents don’t want to face: Teenagers of all stripes take risks. Some teens take so many risks that they are called “at-risk”— for criminal or violent behavior and substance abuse. Others, like Stafford’s son, take their parents off guard with their walk on the— potentially lethal—wild side. There are many ways to approach adolescent risk-taking, from drug and alcohol education classes to psycho-education groups and individual, family, and group therapy. School-based drug and alcohol education is tops on the list for Stafford, a local mom and business owner. Recently, she says, a couple
May 2016 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
of students asked an area emergency room nurse to give a talk on drugs and alcohol at their school. “Three hundred and seventy-six kids sat intently for 35 minutes listening to her speak. They asked questions, they were interested. How easy is that?” says Stafford. Meanwhile, the Mendocino County Youth Project (MCYP), a Ukiah nonprofit, offers drug and alcohol education to small groups of youth identified to be at-risk.
and Early Intervention Services department. Kids then make the decision about whether or not to
“I tell parents that the best way to change their child’s behavior is to change their behavior.” —Uriah Guilford
“We go over the impact of drugs and alcohol on the brain, body, family system. Guest speakers come and share their own stories and experiences with drugs and alcohol,” says Carter Grissom, a coordinator in MCYP’s Prevention
use substances “based on their own experience and education,” he says. Grissom asserts that this approach is “so much more powerful” than parents telling kids what to do. Local therapists and nonprofit administrators say that, beyond drug and alcohol education, getting to the root of what drives kids
toward substance abuse and other risky behaviors is key. And that is where psycho-education groups, as well as individual, family, and group therapy, come into play. The goal of psycho-education is often geared toward helping kids, as well as parents, identify and cope with the stressors in their lives. Jolene Chapel, director of the Lake County Office of Education’s Healthy Start initiative, says that anything from academic and extracurricular pressures to a traumatic home environment can trigger the fight-or-flight stress response. So a stressed child might get physically aggressive or seek to escape or “flee” through alcohol and drug use, she says.
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Aggressive children can learn to handle their feelings through avenues such as MCYP’s anger management groups. Meanwhile, overscheduled students can learn to cut back on their activities, Chapel says. “When a child comes to us and says, ‘I can’t handle sports and school right now,’ we as parents, caregivers, and coaches…[can] help them to make some decisions about what is going on in their lives so that they feel like they are still in control and don’t need to escape,” she explains. In order to help teens manage their emotions and make good choices, parents and caregivers need to learn how to effectively
communicate. Local therapist Uriah Guilford says that parents often react instead of respond to their children. And that can spell trouble. He teaches parents how to “dial down” their own reactivity and approach problems with playfulness, acceptance, curiosity, and empathy— PACE, for short. “I tell parents that the best way to change their child’s behavior is to change their own behavior,” says Guilford. The PACE approach may look something like this: The next time your kid yells, “You’re ruining my life!,” try to contain your hurt and anger, and instead, calmly
When to Worry
M
ost of the time your job is to stay calm, parent with confidence, and remain connected to your child. Don’t sweat the small stuff is usually really good advice, but what about when things start to get serious?
There are usually small signs that could signal trouble. For example: Your children start hanging out with a new group of kids. They suddenly seem moody and irritable. They become withdrawn and isolate themselves. They don’t complete their homework, and their grades start to drop. For the most part, these are normal experiences of adolescence. But start to worry when any of the following begin to happen: 1. Drug and alcohol abuse (beyond experimentation) 2. Self-harm, such as cutting or suicidal thinking 3. Major depression or anxiety 4. Ditching school or sneaking out at night 5. Stealing or fire starting 6. Violence or gang involvement At this point, don’t focus as much on consequences or discipline as on figuring out what is really going on and getting your child some help. —Uriah Guilford, guilfordfamilycounseling.com
ask, “What do you mean by that?” Be truly interested in your child’s response. When you communicate a real desire to understand—not judge—your child’s thoughts and
“I’m a good mom. I’m a careful mom. If this can happen in my family, this can happen in anyone’s family.” — Kathleen Stafford feelings, he or she is more likely to open up to you. If a child doesn’t feel comfortable talking to you, he or she might be willing to speak to a therapist. Some parents don’t reach out to a professional, though, because they assume such services are out of their budget. But Elece Hempel, an executive director of an area mental-health services nonprofit, says most community agencies offer very affordable rates. And Medi-Cal covers many services, too. Still, moms and dads may never pick up the phone because they simply feel too embarrassed. Hempel encourages them to shirk shame and feel empowered, instead. “A lot of times parents…are anxious and nervous because they don’t want anyone else in the world to know that they are dealing with these issues. And I think we would be doing everybody a big favor if we felt not stigmatized by saying, ‘I’m getting help for my child,’” asserts Hempel. Stafford says she felt like “locking [herself] in the house and closing the
12 MendoLakeFamilyLife
May 2016 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
GIVE US A SHOUT!
curtains” when she found out what her son had done. But she knew that she had to speak up so other parents would know they were not alone.
We want to know what you think. • What did you like in this issue? • What do you want to see more or less of? • Know a teacher, coach, or special person who makes local family life better? • Know of an upcoming event or fun family outing? • Want to write stories or recipes, or blog for Family Life?
“I’m a good mom. I’m a careful mom. If this can happen in my family, this can happen in anyone’s family,” she says.
e-mail melissa@family-life.us
Of course, there are parents who have tried everything from psycho-education groups to family therapy and are still dealing with a verbally and physically abusive child.
A stressed child might get physically aggressive or seek to escape through alcohol and drug use. In situations like these, where it’s no longer safe for a family to house their teen, Guilford says youth shelters can provide a temporary place for teens to stay and get assistance. The path of parenting a risk-taking adolescent is full of twists and turns, some of which, as in Stafford’s case, are completely unexpected. While every family’s journey is unique, there are therapists and programs to light the way. Educating kids about drug and alcohol use, teaching them how to handle stress, and learning to communicate are all steps in the right direction. The rest of the road is paved by the choices that kids, and their parents, make. ¶ Melissa Chianta is the features editor at Mendo Lake Family Life.
For a list of therapeutic services in your area, see mendolakefamilylife.com. www.mendolakefamilylife.com
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No Drop-Off Day Blues How to Prepare Yourself for Summer Camp By Ashley Talmadge
T
hirty years ago, parents eagerly awaited Drop-Off Day at summer camp. For a few glorious weeks, they could happily ditch their roles of chauffeur, chef, and chaperone. They’d read a few more books, have an extra glass of wine with dinner, and simply enjoy a respite from the nonstop pace kids require. 14 MendoLakeFamilyLife
Today, we parents seem to have more difficulty letting go. Thanks to new communication technology, we’re accustomed to being in constant contact with our kids. And our news feed can make the world seem like
Express confidence in your child’s ability to succeed and have fun at camp. a pretty scary place. How can we trust that our kids will be protected and get their needs met unless we’re overseeing every detail of their lives? But trust we must. In his book Homesick and Happy (Ballantine, 2012), psychologist Michael Thompson concludes that children become more resilient, confident, competent,
and independent when they have opportunities to make decisions, solve problems, and try new things out of their parents’ view. Overnight camp provides the perfect environment for such growth. Kevin Gordon, camp owner and director, has many years of experience working with first-time campers and their parents. When deciding whether to send a child to overnight summer camp, Gordon says it’s a good idea to separate a child’s readiness from a parent’s readiness. He says, “Sometimes well-meaning parents will communicate that their child isn’t ready, but, in fact, it’s the parent that’s not quite there.” Erec Hillis, also a camp director, agrees. He says, “It is our observation that 95 percent of kids finishing second grade can be successful for
May 2016 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
STS For Less Stress, Fly
Children become more resilient, confident, competent, and independent when they have opportunities to make decisions, solve problems, and try new things out of their parents’ view. approachable and available? Do staff members undergo a rigorous hiring and training process? Does the camp provide exciting physical opportunities for kids, while also managing risks? If you can answer these questions in the affirmative, you can remind yourself as Drop-Off Day approaches: “I’ve chosen a great camp. My child is in good hands, and he’ll get to try some really cool things.” The next step is to prepare your child. Both Gordon and Hillis say it’s a good idea to have children spend a few nights away from home with friends or relatives. In addition, some parents will find peace of mind in familiarizing their child www.mendolakefamilylife.com
Finally, it really helps for parents to make their own plans! Sign up for that hula-hooping class, plan a tour of the wine country, or read ten classic novels and get a new tattoo. Above all, express confidence in your child’s ability to succeed and have fun at camp. “Whatever you do, don’t project your uneasiness or anxiety on your child,” advises Hillis. If you have concerns about food, allergies, or medical issues, speak with the staff ahead of time. Read the parent brochure and be prepared to follow the guidelines regarding communication with your child during the camp session. “When in doubt, call the camp,” says Hillis. “The directors are there to talk to you.” Drop-Off Day is often bittersweet. You may need to hide a few tears behind dark glasses. But before you know it, Pick-Up Day will arrive. As you hug your tangle-haired, sodden-sneakered, somehow wiser child, you’ll think, “How could she have grown up so fast?” On the way home, the stories may bubble from her lips. Or the words may be few. But her eyes will tell you: “I’m different. I’ve found parts of myself I never knew existed. Thank you.” ¶ Ashley Talmadge is a freelance writer and mother of two boys whose articles have appeared in dozens of parenting publications across the US and Canada.
May 2016
Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport Seattle (SEA)
Portland (PDX) TS
Good preparation can also help you manage parental uneasiness. Taking the time to select the right camp is the first step. Is the camp director
with camp-necessary skills, such as sorting laundry, stowing toiletries, and using a flashlight or headlamp. You can also acquaint yourself and your camper with the rules, daily schedule, and layout of buildings by downloading information from the camp’s website.
©P N
a three-week camp term, but only 5 percent of their parents think they can.” As a parent, memories of your child as a baby, toddler, and preschooler may skew your understanding of her current capabilities. Hillis suggests that parents begin to more accurately assess a child’s maturity by “taking note of things he or she can do now that weren’t so easy a year or two ago.”
Nonstop Service to & from Wine Country
Sonoma County Airport
(STS)
Las Vegas (LAS)
Los Angeles (LAX) Orange County (SNA) San Diego (SAN)
Phoenix-Mesa (AZA)
www.sonomacountyairport.org
New Life Preschool www.newlifepreschoolukiah.com
Offering classes for 3 & 4-year-olds Creating an environment of love and trust where children can grow spiritually, emotionally, intellectually, socially and physically. Class Times 3-year-olds: T/Th 8:30am-12pm 4-year-olds: M/W/F 8:30am-12pm 4-year-olds: M/W/F 12:45-4:15pm
Registration May 4, 7:30 am 707 463-0803 302 W. Henry St., Ukiah
MendoLakeFamilyLife 15
2016
Summer Camp Adventure Guide Plan an Awesome Break in Just 2 Steps
1
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LAKE COUNTY
FREE Lake County Library Summer Reading Programs. Ongoing activities & prizes. Ages Pre-K–11 yrs. Teen program: 12–17 yrs. For specific age-group schedule, visit lakecountyca.gov.
Start here with the 2016 “Summer Camp Adventure Guide”! Mendo Lake Family Life has the scoop on 58 camps to get your summer planning off to a great start.
Challenger Sports Soccer Camps. Clearlake & Upper Lake. Our highly qualified & trained British & Brazilian staff provides professional soccer coaching to players of all ages & abilities. Ages 3–4: 9–10 a.m. Ages 4–6: 10 a.m.–noon. Ages 6–14: 9 a.m.– noon. Ages 8–14: 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $85–$198. 916-596-1694. challengersports.com.
Want more links and info? Check out our Virtual Summer Camp Fair. Easy searches and ongoing updates means your best summer’s just a click away! Go to mendolakefamilylife.com.
Clearlake Jr. Giants Baseball. Ages 5–16. Noncompetitive. Signups May 17 & June 30. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Coaches
needed! Games June–Aug. 994-5437. clearlakeyouthcenter@gmail.com. Lake County Youth Center. Sports, indoor & outdoor games, cooking, arts & crafts. Ages 7–17. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Mon.–Fri. June 6 –17. 2-week session. 994-KIDS (5437). facebook.com/ clearlakeyouthcenter.
Hidden Valley Bob Rider’s Photography Camp. Your child will learn basic photography principles, take photo walks daily & make prints & a mini-album to take home the last day. Ages 8–14. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Tues.– Fri. June 21–24. 245-5321. bobrider.com. Equine Summer & Rodeo Camp at Owen Ranch. Rides, riding lessons, birthday parties & field trips. Ages 6–adult. Summer Camp. Aug. 3–7. Aug. 10–14 & Aug. 17–21. Rodeo Camp. June 22–26 & July 20–24. Mon.–Fri. June–Aug. $350/wk. $80/day. $40 registration fee. 355-0121. owenranchca.com. Lake County Diamonds. Offering gymnastics, tumbling, hip-hop & tap dance. Week nights. All ages & abilities
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May 2016 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
Summer Camp Adventure Guide welcome. Kids may join at anytime. For specific age-group schedule/rates, visit nobodysbiz.wix.com/lcdc.
Lakeport Clear Lake Scullers. High School Rowing & Youth Paddling/Water Safety. High school: Learn to row in single & team-racing shells. Youth: Paddling technique & safety for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards & rowing boats. Grades 6–8 for the youth program. July 5–8. High school: 8–10 a.m. Youth: 10:30 a.m.–noon. $40. 349-9779. FREE Cowabunga Farm Vacation Bible Club. Clearlake Baptist Church. Children will experience life on the farm: animals, tractors & growing crops. Games, snacks, crafts, Bible time, skits, songs & more. Ages 3–12. Mon.–Fri. 9–11:30 a.m. June 20–24. 263-3256. clearlakebaptistchurch.org. Lake County Channel Cats. Offering swim lessons for all levels. Ages 3–18. Mon.–Fri. 9–11:30 a.m. June– Aug. $200. Ages 6–adult. 263-3256. lakecountychannelcats.com.
Lakeport Christian Center Preschool. Summer Fun & Learning (water activities, exploring nature, etc.). Ages 2.5–6. 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Mon.–Fri. June 20–Aug. 26. For specific schedule/rates, call 262-5520. lcchub.com. Lakeport Dance Center. Offering classes in ballet, combo ballet/jazz, movement & hip-hop. Drop-ins welcome. Ages 5 & up. For specific age-group schedule/rates, call 263-5617 or e-mail aebgoetz@aol. com. facebook/lakeportdancecenter. FREE Lakeport Library Summer Teen Reading Programs. This year’s theme: “Read for the Win.” Activities, prizes, incentives & reading lists for tweens & teens. Ages 12–17. Signups start May 21. Lakeport Library. N. High St. Saturdays 2–4 p.m. Wednesdays 4:30–6:30 p.m. 263-8817, ext. 17105. amy.patton@ lakecountyca.gov. SkyCatch Gymnastics Summer Camps. Hugh new location! We help keep children in a positive environment. All ages. 490-6053. skycatchgymnastics.org.
Mendocino Ballet Mendocino Ballet Dance Classes Dance Classes Dance Classes
Summer Youth Art Camp. Day classes lasting 2–3 hours. Supplies provided. A variety of art classes designed to enrich creativity & encourage self-expression. Ages 6–adult. June 13–July 30. $10–$20/ class. 263-6658.For schedule, visit lakearts.org/classes.
MENDOCINO COUNTY Challenger Sports Soccer Camps. Ukiah, Willits & Fort Bragg. Our highly qualified & trained British & Brazilian staff provides professional soccer coaching to players of all ages & abilities. Ages 3–4: 9–10 a.m. Ages 4–6: 10 a.m.–noon. Ages 6–14: 9 a.m.–noon. Ages 8–14: 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $85–$198. 916-596-1694. challengersports.com. FREE Mendocino County Libraries Summer Reading Program. Ongoing activities & prizes. Ages Pre-K–11 yrs. Teen program: Ages 12–17. For specific age-group schedule, mendolibrary.org. 463-4153.
MendocinoMendocino Ballet Ball
Dance Classes
Dance Classes
Ballet • Tap • Jazz Contemporary Dance Ballet classes for ages 3-Adult
Ballet classes for ages 3-Adult
Ballet Tap/Ballet Special class for ages 4-7
Intensive Workshops Tap classes for 7-Adult Ballet classes for ages 3-Adult in ages August
Tap/Ballet class for ages 4-7 Tap classes for ages 7-Adult Ballet
classes for a
ADVENTURE AWAITS Jazz/Contemporary classes Jazz/Contemporary classesYOU Classes for all ages & 4-7 Tap/Ballet class for ages Tap/Ballet class fo
Special intensive classes in levels from 3-Adult
Special intensive classes in ON THE BEAUTIFUL EEL RIVER!
Tapforclasses ages 7-Adult Tap classes for ag August our Art offor Classical August for ourStart Art of Classical Summer Programs July 5th Dance this Summer! Ballet program Ballet program Jazz/Contemporary classes Jazz/Contempora REGISTER NOW Summer Classes At RedwoodAdventure.org & Workshops Special intensive classes in Special intensive starting Soon! For more information call our office at 463-2290 or For more information call our office at 463-2290 or crafts, nature education, August for our Art of Classical challenge August for our Art o email at balletoffice@sbcglobal.net email at balletoffice@sbcglobal.net course, horses, For more information callFacebook, our office at 463-2290 Follow us on or Twitter email at balletoffice@sbcglobal.net and Instagram!Ballet program Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!
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“Where Dance Come “WhereDreams Dreams toto Dance Come True!”True!”
on Facebook, swimming,Follow archery,usbackpacking Instagram! & beginningTwitter outdoorand living skills.
Includes round trip transportation to www.mendocinoballet.org camp from Mendocino Co. locations “Where Dreams to Dance Come True!”
For more information call our office at 463-2290 or www.mendolakefamilylife.com May 2016 email at balletoffice@sbcglobal.net Follow us on Facebook,
Mendocino Ballet
Ballet progr
For more information call our office at 463 MendoLakeFamilyLife 17 email at balletoffice@sbcglobal.ne Follow us on Facebook,
Mendocino Ballet
Summer Camp Adventure Guide Fort Bragg C.V. Starr Community Center. Activities for youth, teens & families. 964-9446. starrcenter.net. Just for Kids Day Camp. We provide lots of opportunities for craft-making, computer-based research, library visits, field trips & so much more. 7:45 a.m.–5:15 p.m. Mon.–Fri. $30/full day. $20/half-day. 964-9672. mendocoastrec.org.
Hopland Camp Solar. Garden, Natural Building & Solar Days. We’ll race solar cars & make adobe bricks, seed balls & a farmers market for parents on the final day. Ages 6–12. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Aug. 2–4. $150. Benefits the Solar Living Institute. 472-2460. solarliving.org.
Laytonville Camp Winnarainbow. A Circus & Performing Arts Camp. For 41 years, children have run away to join this
circus in beautiful Mendocino. 984-6507. campwinnarainbow.org. Healthy Start Summer Program. Arts & crafts, field games, water play, drama, music, lunch. Ages 5–12. Noon–3 p.m. Mon., Tues. & Wed. June 27–July 20. $40/4 wks. 984-8089. laytonville.org/ healthystart. Raiders Youth Football. Ages 7–14. Signups: June & July. Games: Aug.–Nov. Contact Melody: 972-2073.
Leggett Redwood Adventure Residential Camp. Hiking, swimming, backpacking, horseback riding, archery, crafts & nature. We emphasize nature stewardship, leadership & interpersonal & spiritual growth. Grades 5–12. July 5–20. $495/wk. $975/2 wks. 703-9171. For specific age-group schedule/rates, visit redwoodadventure.org.
Mendocino Camp Mendocino. A program of the Boys & Girls Club of SF. Campers participate in arts & crafts, swimming, boating, mountain biking, digital photography, gardening, rock climbing, a ropes course & more. Ages 8–18. Weekly sessions: June 29–Aug. 6. June 20–29: active military youth only. See schedule/rates on campmendocino.org. Community Center of Mendocino’s Summer Enrichment Camps. Science, art, gardening & nutrition, disc golf, tide pool exploration, outdoor games, nature exploration. Operation Orchestra Camp, Lil’ Dream Empowerment Camp, Circus Camp. Ages 6–12. Mon.–Fri. 937-4133. ccmendo.org. Flynn Creek Circus Big Top Day Camp. Run away with a real circus this summer! Students will explore various circus skills, from trapeze to teeterboard, all under the Flynn Creek Circus big-top tent. Safe environment. Ages 6–12: 10 a.m.–2 p.m. July 5–9. Ages 13 & older: 4:30–6:30 p.m.
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Summer Camp Adventure Guide July 6–7. Recital: July 9. 2–3 p.m. $235/ session. 937-4133. flynncreekcircus.com. Youth Ceramic Arts. Students will be exposed to various building & throwing techniques, working with local artists & artists in residence. May 18–July 6. Wednesdays. Ages 6–12: 2:45–4:45 p.m. Ages 13 & up: 5–7 p.m. $200. Mendocino Art Center. 937-5818, ext. 10. mendocinoartcenter.org.
wilderness skills, bird language, plant & animal ID & more. Ages 8–13. June 13–17. June 20–24. June 27–July 1. $275. Siblings discount & scholarships avail. 743-1980. oakgranary.org.
having fun in a friendly environment where safety comes first. All skill levels. Day Camp: Ages 6 & up. $375. Sleepovers: Ages 8–16. $500 & up/wk. 743-2541. paddingtonstationriding.com.
Jr. Bear Cats Football. Ages 7–14 (up to grade 8). Signups: June & July. Games: Aug–Nov. Contact Paul: 489-5830.
White Dog Ranch Children’s Horseback Riding Day Camp. Ride & learn all about horses, from grooming to feeding & more. All levels, from beginners to experienced riders. Ages 5–17. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. or 9 a.m.–noon. June 21–25. July
Paddington Station Horse Camp. For horse-crazy kids who want to learn while
Navarro Boy Scouts of America Summer Camps. Boy Scout Resident Camp. Cooking, aquatics, Scout-craft, shooting sports, handicrafts & nature skills. Ages 11–20. July 24–28. $244–$279. 546–8137. redwoodbsa.org. Girl Scouts of Kamp Konocti. Girl Scouts from all over Northern California exploring nature, archery, arts & crafts, hiking & outdoor cooking. Entering grades 2–8. Children 3–6 welcome w/parent volunteers. July 23–30. $300–$325/wk. & registration fee. Financial aid. 837-8632. kampkonocti.org. Lake-Mendocino 4-H Summer Camp. A weeklong camp filled with fun & exciting adventures that are sure to be remembered for years to come. 4-H members ages 9–13. Ages 12–13 can attend camp as a counselor-intraining. Ages 14–18 can attend camp as counselors or Deans. Ages 16–18 may serve as Ambassadors or Directors. Space is limited, first-come basis. $175. 263-6838. celake.ucanr.edu.
Point Arena Windy Hollow Farm Camp. Children will be preparing snacks, crafting projects, sowing seeds & exploring the land & gardens. This is a chance for kids to run & get their hands dirty in a safe outdoor environment. Jr. Farm Camp: Ages 4–6. July 5–8 & Aug. 9–12. $125/ wk. Farm Camp: Ages 7–10. June 28– July 1 & Aug. 2–5. $125/wk. 353-0143. windyhollowfarmca.com/farm-camp.
Potter Valley Acorn Camp. Let your child fall in love with nature & learn animal tracking,
www.mendolakefamilylife.com
2016
Passes good June 1 thru Aug. 31, 2016
SUMMER YOUTH PASS $45all summer County-wide
Unlimited rides to summer school... Shopping...to the Coast...Meet your Friends!
Youth Summer Pass for students 18 years & younger. Pass good all summer long on all MTA fixed routes. $5.00 and a Youth Summer Pass will get you to and from Santa Rosa on MTA’s North Coast and South Coast Buses! For more information: www.mendocinotransit.org or call 800-696-4MTA / 462-1422 Tickets: Mendocino Transit Authority, 241 Plant Road , Ukiah CA 95482 Available on board an MTA bus or at the MTA office in Ukiah or Fort Bragg. This pass not valid on MTA Dial-A-Ride.
wheel deal! May 2016
MendoLakeFamilyLife 19
Summer Camp Adventure Guide 5–9. July 26–30. $175–$350/session. 743-9973. whitedogranch.com.
Round Valley/Covelo Colts Football & Cheer. Ages 7–14. (Up to grade 8). Signups: June & July. Games: Aug.–Nov. Contact Joe: 983-6823. Jr. Giants Baseball. Ages 5–16. Signups: Thru June 3. Games: June 13–Aug. 12. Contact Joe: 983-6823.
Ukiah Bible Vacation School. Lego based-theme: “Building Blocks of God’s Word.” Ages 3–grade 5. 5:30–7:30 p.m. Mon.–Fri. Aug 1–5. First Presbyterian Church. 468-9235. fpcukiah.org. Boys & Girls Club of Ukiah Summer Program. BGCU is a safe & fun experience. We are here for all youth, especially those who need us most, so that they can reach their fullest potential as productive, responsible & caring citizens. Ages 6–18. Mon.–Fri. 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. June 13–Aug. 19. $50 registration fee. $15/day. 467-4900. ukiahbgc.org. Canova Music Rock Band Camp. A unique music school where campers learn to write, record, produce, market & perform their own original music. All ages. All skills. 354-2377. facebook.com/ canova-records. City of 10,000 Buddhas Summer Youth Camp. Creativity & Community. Explore Buddha’s teachings through art, music, theater, community projects, speaking Chinese, brush painting, organic gardening, meditation & nature hikes. Ages 5–14. June 20–July 1. Day session: $250 /2 wks. Residential students: $400–$500. 468-1138 (boys). 468-3896 (girls). igdvs.org. City of Ukiah Summer Safari Day Camp. Swimming, golf, arts & crafts, sports, cooking, bouncy houses & field trips. Todd Grove Park. Ages 6–12. Mon.–Fri. 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. June–Aug. Call for rates. 463-6231. cityofukiah.com. Jr. Giants Baseball. Ages 5–16. Signups: Thru June 3. Games: June 13–Aug. 12. Contact Craig: 621-0932.
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Mendocino Ballet Summer Dance Workshops. Classical ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary & choreography. Ages 6–14. 463-2290. For schedule/rates, visit mendocinoballet.org. Mendocino College Youth Basketball Camp. Games & drills designed to keep children focused & having fun. Ages 7–11: 8:30–11 a.m. Ages 12–15: 1–4:30 p.m. Mon.–Fri. June 27–30. $100. 468-3028. mendocino.edu.
Vacation Bible School. St. Mary’s of the Angels Catholic Church. Games, snacks, crafts, Bible time, stories, songs & more. Grades K–6. Mon.–Fri. 9 a.m. –12:30 p.m. June 27–July 1. $25. 462-1431, ext. 13. stmarysukiah.org.
Willits Disc Golf. Ages 10 & up. June 9–Aug. 25. Contact Michael Bennett at Willits Police Dept.: 459-6122.
SPACE School of Performing Arts & Cultural Education Summer Programs. Dancers of all levels will assemble for one week of nonstop dancing. Two final celebration performances on June 18. Ages 12–young adult. Mon.–Fri. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. (Advanced dancers return for class 6–8 p.m.) June 13–18. Beginner & intermediate: $315. Advanced: $365. 462-9370. spaceperformingarts.org.
Jr. Giants Baseball. Ages 5–16. Signups: Thru June 3. Games: June 13–Aug. 12. Contact Tiffany: 354-4463.
Sports & Splash Camp–Redwood Health Club. From Under the Sea to Olympic Gold. Crafts, games & activities focused on weekly theme. Ages 5–12. Mon.–Fri. Part-time: 7:30 a.m.–12:15 p.m. or 12:45–5 p.m. Full-time: 7:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Extended care: 5–6 p.m. June 13–Aug. 19. Members: $35–$95. Nonmembers: $40–$105. 468-0441, ext. 240. For complete schedule/rates, visit redwoodhealthclubofukiah.com.
Wiggle Worms & Roustabouts. A Performing Arts/Music & Movement Camp. Mon.–Thurs. June 13–July 22. Baby Sign Language Classes: Ages 9 mos. $200 (includes CD & text book). “Peter & the Wolf”: Ages Pre-K–grade 3. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. $300. “The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe”: Ages 8–18. 11 a.m.–1 p.m. $500. Siblings rate. Extended care avail. 354-2475. manafromthemuse.com.
Tutoring Center Summer Program. Helps to keep good students on track & gives kids who need extra help a chance to catch up during summer. Math & language skills. Ages 5–18. Mon.–Thurs. 3:30–6:30 p.m. June–Aug. $250–$300/ mo. 468-1300. tutoringcenter.com. FREE Ukiah Library Summer Reading Program. Saturdays. 11 a.m.–noon. All ages. Activities, prizes, incentives & reading. June 11–Aug. 13. 463-4490. mendolibrary.org. Ukiah Valley Youth Soccer. Challenger Sports’ British Soccer Camp. Drills & practices designed to improve individual ball control, fakes, juggling & core techniques. Ages 3–14. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. June 13–17. $80–$190/wk. 467-9797. uvysl.org/soccer-camp.
The Learning Farm. Where kids learn where food comes from & participate in the creation of healthy, locally sourced, organic, non-GMO food products, marketing & distribution. Ages 3–17. Mon.–Fri. 8 a.m. –7 p.m. June–Aug. $500. 570-5178. christa@ planetkidizen.com.
Willits Kids Club. Summer Day Camp. Gardening, crafts, games, sports, outings, swimming & more. Grades K–8. 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. June 20–Aug. 12. Drop-ins welcome. 459-9201. For rates, visit willitskidsclub.org. Willits Youth Football & Cheer. WYF promotes character growth & development thru instructional & fun participation. Ages 7–14. First practice Aug 1. 5–7 p.m. Baechtel Grove Middle School. Registration $110 first child, sliding scale for additional children. willitsyouthfootball.com.
Find Your Perfect Camp!
May 2016 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
UKIAH UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT LEARN • INSPIRE • CREATE • GROW • COMMUNICATE • COLLABORATE • DEVELOP • INNOVATE
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Art & Music Programs • Outdoor Education GATE, Honors & AP Courses ENROLL NOW! KINDERGARTEN & INDEPENDENT STUDY From Movement & Performing Arts classes with SPACE, to over 30 Career Pathways Courses, we’re engaging our youth and One-To-One helping them create Chrome Books their future!
in Every 3rd–12th Grade Classroom
511 S. Orchard Ave. • 707-472-5000 • www.uusd.net
Family Fun
Queen for a Day
7 Local Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day
M
om works round-the-clock every day of the week. Her one official day off should be worth remembering. Let these area events help you make this Mother’s Day a special one. Lake County
Hidden Valley Lake A guaranteed way to make Mom feel special anytime of the year may be summed up in one word: dessert. Or, more specifically, desserts. There will be plenty of them on the all-you-can-eat buffet at the Greenview Room in the Greenview Restaurant. And did we mention that a glass of bubbly or a mimosa is included in the meal? The buffet is $21.95, $11.95 for ages 6–12, and free for little ones under 5. Reservations are required. Call 987-3146. Lakeport If Mother’s secret pleasure is to turn up the Tchaikovsky and conduct the air, then take her to the Lake County Symphony Mother’s Day Pop Concert on May 8 at the Soper Reese Theatre. The program will be packed with highlights from grand film scores as well as Leroy Anderson favorites, including “Clarinet Candy,” “Bugler’s Holiday,” and “Fiddle Faddle.” If you need to go on the cheap, check out the 11 a.m. rehearsal, which is only $5; free for kids 18 and under. Tickets for the 3 p.m. concert are $25 and may be purchased at soperreesetheatre.com. Mendocino County Fort Bragg If no one got Mom flowers on Valentine’s Day, here’s your chance to make up for it—in spades. The 39th Annual John Druecker Memorial Rhododendron Show is expected to fill the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens with more than 1,000 versions of the vibrant flower. With that kind of floral action, your V-day forgetfulness will surely be forgiven. Raffles, a silent auction, educational displays, and food sweeten the deal. You can even buy a bloom to bring home. The event will be held May 7–8, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., at the Mendocino 22 MendoLakeFamilyLife
Enjoy the Rhododendron Show at the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens in Fort Bragg.
Coast Botanical Gardens in Fort Bragg. While the show itself is free, admission to the gardens will be charged: $14 for ages 18 and older, $10 for seniors, $7 for residents of the Mendocino Coast Recreation and Park District, $5 for ages 5–17; and free for kids 4 and under. See gardenbythesea.org for more information. Gualala Anyone who stops World War III from erupting over a Lego block needs an adult beverage now and then. So living in wine country comes in handy. At the Wine Tasting and Auction at the Gualala Arts Center, May 6 and 7, the lady of the house will not only get the chance to imbibe, but also to buy cool (wine-related) stuff. On May 6, 6–8 p.m., she can go to the free Korbel California Champagne preview and be one of the first to bid on more than 100 auction lots, as well as take a peek at the Pacific Piecemakers Quilt Guild 2016 Quilt Challenge exhibit. Then on May 7, 3–5:30 p.m., she can sample the vino of more than 20 wineries and bring home a treasure from the auction. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 the day of the event. For $60, $65 day-of, add a self-guided tour of area architectural gems May 2016 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
Located in Beautiful, Little Lake Valley of Willits
to the day. To purchase tickets, see brownpapertickets.com. For more information, see gualalaarts.org. Philo If the woman who brings home the bacon and fries it up in a pan deserves anything on Mother’s Day, it’s carbs. We have just the place to get them—the Anderson Valley Grange Pancake Breakfast. These folks do not mess around: Their stacks are organic, as are the eggs, and the bacon—not cooked by Mom—is nitrite-free. What about gluten-free pancakes, you ask? They’ve got ’em. Now that’s a carb fest that even Dr. Oz would approve of! It’s got a great price tag, too: $5–$10. Get your grub on May 8, 8:30–11 a.m., at the Anderson Valley Solar Grange. Point Arena Is the lady of the house a hippie at heart? Does she hum “Just Like a Woman” in the shower, and wonder out loud who that girl on the cover of Freewheelin ’ is? Then take her to BobFest, where she can get her fill of Dylan classics. Northern Californian musicians (one of whom is even named Bob) will perform folk, blues, rock, and Americana arrangements of the songs of the sixties icon—everything from solo performances to 12-part harmonies. The concert will be held on May 7 at 7:30 p.m. at the Arena Theater. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased at bob-fest.com. Ukiah Because nothing conjures up Mother’s Day like snakes and cars, there’s the Mustang and Cobra Car Show. Ok, so maybe the holiday is more a flowers-and-chocolates kind of thing, but hey!, why not think outside of the box (of See’s)? There are advantages to breaking with tradition. One major plus is this event has something to entertain everyone in your crew. The kids can break out the Crayolas and enter a coloring contest or play games while Mom listens to music and dreams of cruising in a sweet ride. The event will be held all day on May 7 at the Pear Tree Center. ¶ www.mendolakefamilylife.com
• Small Class Sizes • Personal Attention to each student
A Christ-Centered Education Adventist Christian School of Willits
• A Safe Place to Grow
A Journey to Excellence Participant School 707-459-4333 • www.willitssdaschool.com
Christian Education to the children of this area for 50 years.
Love Working with kids?
WORK AT HOME • CHOOSE YOUR OWN HOURS • WORK WITH CHILDREN Own Your Own Business • Free Training and other great incentives for attending fun workshops. • Child Care Assistance for lowincome eligible families. • Free Child Care Referrals.
1-800-606-5550 ext. 211
Rural Communities Child Care
BECOME A CERTIFIED MEDICAL ASSISTANT Classes start August 23, 2016
Tuesdays & Thursdays 8:30am–4:30pm LAKE COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION TO TEACH. TO SERVE. TO LEARN.
Lake County Office of Education Career & College Readiness Department Hance Community School campus 1510 Argonaut Rd, Lakeport, CA 95453 Questions: Please contact (707) 263-8918 ext 284 ncromwell@lakecoe.org • www.lakecoe.org
May 2016
MendoLakeFamilyLife 23
May
Calendar of Events
History in Action
W
alk into the 1860s at the Middletown Mansion in Middletown on May 14, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. The “Muskets and Cannon and Scarlett, Oh My!” Civil War reenactment, presented by the Gibson Museum and Cultural Center, will educate your family about the past. Southern belles donned in gowns worthy of Scarlett O’Hara will serve you appetizers and local wine while you listen to live music of the era, and hear facts and figures from a local historian. Skirmishes by the American Civil War Association will be held at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Advance tickets are $60 for adults, $50 for seniors, and $25 for students. Tack on an additional $5 for tickets purchased at the gate. Children under 10 get in for free. See lakecounty.com for more information. ¶
Sunday 1
Wednesday 4
Arbor Day Celebration & Youth Poetry Contest. A self–guided tour of
FREE Hang Out Club. Free babysitting. This is a safe & fun place to drop off your kids. We will feed them, play games & do activities. Ages 3 to grade 5. Wednesdays. 5:30–7 p.m. First Presbyterian Church. 514 W. Church St., Ukiah. 468-9235. fpcukiah.org.
the city’s landmark trees. Youth Poetry Contest: “Ode to a Tree.” Ages 5–11 & 12–18. Bring your poem about a tree to the info table near the old oak tree at the Ukiah Civic Center. 1–3 p.m. Ukiah Civic Center. 300 Seminary Ave., Ukiah. cityofukiah.com. Cinco de Mayo Celebration.
Kelseyville Singers, Irma Lopez, Group XMG, Maximoz, El Torito de Petate. Also vendors, food & information booths. 10:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Library Park. 225 Park St., Lakeport. Mendocino College Spring Dance Festival. Ballet, contemporary, jazz,
hip-hop, Middle Eastern, Afro-Cuban. 2 p.m. Mendocino College. 1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah. 468-3079. mendocino.edu.
Tuesday 3 Karate. County Sheriff’s Activities
League (SAL). Classes are free. $10 annual insurance/registration fee. Tuesdays. Ages 8 & up. 6–7:30 p.m. Ukiah High School. 1000 Low Gap Rd., Ukiah. 354–0565. 24 MendoLakeFamilyLife
Thursday 5 Karate. Mendocino County Sheriff’s Activities League (SAL). Classes are free. $10 annual insurance/registration fee. Thursdays. Ages 5–9: 6–6:45 p.m. Tweens–adults: 7–8:30 p.m. Willits Body Works Gym. 1511 S. Main St., Willits. 354–0565. Little Women: The Musical. Based on Louisa May Alcott’s life. Follows the adventures of sisters Jo, Meg, Beth & Amy March. $10–$20. Thursdays: 7 p.m. Fridays & Saturdays: 8 p.m. Sundays: 2 p.m. Runs thru May 15. Ukiah Playhouse. 1041 Low Gap Rd., Ukiah. 462-9226. ukiahplayerstheatre.org.
Friday 6 Movie Night. Jurassic World. Adults $5. Kids $3. Admission includes popcorn & a drink. 7 p.m. Konocti Education Center. 15850-A Dam Rd. Ext., Clearlake. kec.konoctiusd.org. FREE Friday Night Youth Games.
Magic the Gathering, Pokemon cards, Wii, board games, chess & much more. Ages 10–14. Fridays. 5–7:30 p.m. Willits Library. 390 E. Commercial St., Willits. 459-5908. co.mendocino.ca.us. FREE National Public Gardens Day. Free admission to the gardens.
9 a.m.–5 p.m. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. 18220 N. Hwy. 1, Fort Bragg. gardenbythesea.org.
Saturday 7 May Faire. Games, food, festivities & May Pole dance. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Waldorf School of Mendocino County. 6280 Third St., Calpella. 485-8719. mendocinowaldorf.org. FREE Learn to Row Days. Free
lessons May 7 & 14. Kayaks & canoes will be available to try in addition to the rowing sculls. No experience necessary. 8 a.m.–noon. The club is
May 2016 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
located at the site of Natural High School. 100 Lange St., Lakeport. You’ll see boats in a fenced area. Walk for Paws. One-mile fun walk from Austin Park to Redbud Park & back. All proceeds benefit the SPCA, Animal Coalition & families fostering Valley Fire animals. SPCA will host a pet adoption at the event. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Austin Park. 14077 Lakeshore Dr., Clearlake. lakecounty.com. 39th Annual John Druecker Memorial Rhododendron Show. California’s
largest rhododendron show. Free admission to the show. Gardens admission separate: $5–$14. Thru May 8. 9–5 p.m. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. 18220 N. Hwy. 1, Fort Bragg. gardenbythesea.org. Craft Fair & Kid Swap. Handmade
items, food & kids’ activities. 10
a.m.–1 p.m. Children’s clothing & toy swap: 11 a.m.–noon. Community Center of Mendocino. 998 School St., Mendocino. facebook.com/ coastalmama. Willits on Stage 4. Annual
variety show to benefit Willits community services. 7 p.m. Willits High School. 299 N. Main St., Willits. facebook. com/willits–community–services– and–food–bank. Human Race. 5K
walk & timed run around Ukiah neighborhoods. Raise money for local nonprofit organizations. Registration 8 a.m. Race 9 a.m. Alex Thomas Plaza. 300 State St., Ukiah. mendohumanrace.com. Mother’s Day High Tea. Enjoy traditional tea & light meal. Thru May 8. Noon–3 p.m. Lakeport
English Inn. 675 N. Main St., Lakeport. Reservations: 263-4317. lakeportenglishinn.com. Treasure & Trash Sale. Small
appliances, tools, books, plants & gently used household & kitchen goods available for purchase. Rain or shine. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Lower Lake Historical School Museum. 16435 Main St., Lower Lake. Mother’s Day Car Show. All Mustangs & Cobras welcome. People’s Choice Awards. Kids’ coloring contest, raffle, music, games, family fun. All day. Pear Tree Center. 405 E. Perkins St., Ukiah. visitukiah.com. Mother’s Day Brunch. Crab omelet or eggs & sausage any style. Complimentary champagne mimosas & Irish coffee. $14. 9–11 a.m. Redwood
Now Accepting K-12 Registration
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May 2016
MendoLakeFamilyLife 25
Coast Senior Center. 490 N. Harold St., Fort Bragg. rcscenter.org.
Sunday 8 Mother’s Day Pops Concert.
Music from your favorite movies & musicals. Also featuring the LCSA Youth Orchestra. 3 p.m. $25–$30. 11 a.m. open rehearsal: $5, free for kids 18 & under. Soper Reese Theatre. 275 S. Main St., Lakeport. 263-0577. soperreesetheatre.com. Mother’s Day Brunch. 1–3 p.m.
Cache Creek Vineyards. 250 New Long Valley Rd., Clearlake Oaks. 998-1200. cachecreekvineyards.com. Mother’s Day Sunday Brunch. Live music by Will Siegel & Friends. 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Blue Wing Saloon. 9520 Main St., Upper Lake. bluewingsaloon.com. Mother’s Day Breakfast. Sponsored
by the Knights of Columbus. Adults $8. 12 & under $3.50. 8 a.m.–noon. St. Anthony’s Church, 10700 Lansing St., Mendocino. mendonoma.com. Mother’s Day Brunch & Jazz.
Reservations recommended. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Barra Winery. 7051 N. State St., Redwood Valley. 485-0322. mendonoma.com.
Friday 13 Queens of Boogie Woogie. This
show brings together a vibrant group of women committed to continuing the tradition of high-energy piano. $15–$25. 7 p.m. Soper Reese Theatre. 275 S. Main St., Lakeport. 263-0577. soperreesetheatre.com. Catfish Derby. Contestants
must register in person at Derby Headquarters & pick up entry numbers & rules before starting to fish. Adults $50. 15 yrs. & under $10. Thru May 15. 7 a.m.–5 p.m. Clearlake Oaks Fire Station. 26 MendoLakeFamilyLife
12655 E. Hwy. 20, Clearlake Oaks. clearlakeoaks.org/derby.
Saturday 14 FREE Pastels on the Plaza. Live music, food vendors, May pole dances, face-painting, wreath-making & other fun children’s activities. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Alex Thomas Plaza. W. Clay & School Streets, Ukiah. riveroakcharterschool.org. Kelseyville Sunrise Rotary Denim & Diamonds. Dinner, silent & live
auctions, raffle, dancing & live music by the LC Diamonds. 6–10 p.m. Chacewater Winery & Olive Mill. 5625 Gaddy Ln., Kelseyville. visitkelseyville.com. Muskets & Cannon & Scarlett Oh My!
A look at life in the 1860s. Appetizers & wine will be served by Southern belles in Scarlett O’Hara gowns. Silent auction & more. Adults $65. Students $30. Children under 10 free. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Skirmishes by the American Civil War Association: 1 p.m. & 3 p.m. Middletown Mansion. 20650 Hwy. 29, Middletown. lakecounty.com. Waves & Whales 5K Trail Run– Walk. Ages 5–15. $20. Ages 16 &
up $30. Includes T–shirt & snacks. Must register by May 8. Supports environmental stewardship program. 10 a.m. Point Arena- Stornetta Public Unit of CCNM, behind the Point Arena City Hall. 451 School St., Point Arena. acornpartnersineducation.org. FREE Annual Clean-up Lakeport Day. Light work, coffee, donuts &
good fun. Appropriate for kids ages 10 & up (with adult supervision). Can be counted as community service for high school students. Bring brooms, dustpans, weeding tools, buckets & ladders. 8–10 a.m. Museum Park. N. Main St., Lakeport. lakeportmainstreet.com.
Passion Play. The Passion, Death, Resurrection & Ascension of Jesus Christ. Thru May 15. 4–7 p.m. 7010 Westlake Rd., Upper Lake. lakecochamber.chambermaster.com. Hidden Gardens of Lake County Tour. Benefits local farm–to–school
gardening programs & scholarships. No pets. Rain or shine. $25. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. 2298 Hendricks Rd., Lakeport. clttgc.org.
Sunday 15 Let It Shine: Movement, Monologues & Music. Benefits
the $10,000 Paint & Restore Campaign. 2–4:30 p.m. Willits Center for the Arts. 71 E. Commercial St., Willits. 459-1726. willitscenterforthearts.org.
Monday 16 Holly Near in Concert. With Barbara
Higbie & Jan Martinelli. $15–$25. 6:30 p.m. Soper Reese Theatre. 275 S. Main St., Lakeport. 263-0577. soperreesetheatre.com.
Tuesday 17 FREE Junior Giants Baseball Signups.
Noncompetitive baseball program for girls & boys. Learn confidence, integrity, teamwork & leadership. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Clearlake Youth Center. 4750 Golf Ave., Clearlake. 994-KIDS (5437). jrgiants.org.
Thursday 19 FREE CTA Classes. Become a Certified Tourism Ambassador. Learn
about Lake County, network with your peers at CTA events & get access to local specials & deals. 1–5 p.m. Register online: ctanetwork.com. Use the coupon code 0000 to cover the full cost of the classes. Lower Lake Schoolhouse Museum. 16435 Morgan Valley Rd., Lower Lake.
May 2016 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
Friday 20 Mendocino College Festival of New Plays. Eleven original works.
$10. Recommended for ages 14 & older. Thru May 21. 8 p.m. Mendocino College Little Theatre. 1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah. mendocino.edu.
Saturday 21 Draw Til You Drop. A marathon fundraiser for the Arts Council of Mendocino County. Commit to making art for a minimum of 12 hrs. while being entertained by musicians, poets, visitors & each other. High school students & up invited to participate. 10 a.m. Ukiah Senior Center. 499 Leslie St., Ukiah. 743-1437. Fire Recovery Blues Benefit #2.
Outdoor blues concert. Crafts, food, beer, wine, information booths &
raffles. $15. 12 & under free. 3–7 p.m. Ely Stage Stop & Country Museum. 9921 Soda Bay Rd., Kelseyville. elystagestop.com.
105 N. Main St., Ukiah. 463-4490. mendolibrary.org.
Tour the Links. 5K Run/Walk Plus Mutts. Unique opportunity to walk/ run around the Sea Ranch golf course. Dogs on leashes & baby strollers welcome. Benefits Action Network. Adults $25. Under 18 $10. Dogs $5. Kids in strollers free. Registration 7–8:30 a.m. Run 8:45 a.m. Walk 9 a.m. Sea Ranch Golf Links. 4200 Coast Hwy., Sea Ranch. 884-5413. actionnetwork.info.
helicopters, rescue vehicles. Bicycle rodeo (bring your own bike & helmet). Extreme obstacle course. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Mendocino County Fairgrounds. 14400 Hwy. 128, Boonville.
FREE Heroes of Health & Safety Fair. Jaws of Life, K9 Units, medical
Motorcycle Poker Run. $25 includes
run, T–shirt & BBQ tri-tip dinner. $15 for run & BBQ only. Supports the Konocti Education Center. 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Konocti Education Center. 15850-A Dam Rd. Ext., Clearlake. kec. konoctiusd.org.
FREE Journey into Space. Grades K–4 & their families. Storytime, Magic School Bus video, making moon rocks & walking in moon boots. A traveling exhibition for libraries, supported thru the National Science Foundation. 2:30 p.m. Ukiah Library.
FREE Wool Festival. Farm tours, demos, fiber arts, spinning, weaving, felting. Thru May 22. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Casari Ranch. 42900 Curley Lane (Hwy. 1), Point Arena. casariranch.com.
Quality Christian Education
707-433-3334
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Car Lot
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“It’s like a Thrift Store Village” Kitchenware Collectables Snack Bar & Antiques OPEN Sallie’s - SAT Clothing MON 9:30-5:00 Barn PARKING
Christ-centered education in Ukiah • Small class sizes • College-prep curriculum • Music program • Family-like atmosphere • Fully accredited grades K–10
Furniture & So Much More
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The Salvation Army
Lytton ARC Adult Rehabilitation Center
UKIAH JUNIOR ACADEMY
200 Lytton Springs Road, Healdsburg
Also visit our Santa Rosa Store at 1020 3rd Street, SR
180 Stipp Lane, Ukiah • www.myuja.org • 707.462.6350 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
May 2016
MendoLakeFamilyLife 27
local local resources resources baby essentials baby essentials consignment consignment local local artisans children’s children’s and maternity clothes maternity toys, books, toys, and more! more! and
FREE Youthfest. 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Clearlake Youth Center. 4750 Golf Ave., Clearlake. 994-KIDS (5437). Quilts in Bloom Show. Theme
baskets, silent auction & door prizes. $8. May 21: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. May 22: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Redwood Empire Fairgrounds. 1055 N. State St., Ukiah. ukiahgrapevinequilters.webs.com. The Dead Winter Carpenters concert. 21 & older only. Benefits
198 S. School St. Ukiah 707.462.1020 www. MendoBaby.com Check us out on Facebook!
Weekly Deal Day!
$3 Thursdays all clothing on plastic hangers $3 regardless of marked prices
the Tree of Life Montessori Charter School in Ukiah. Doors: 6 p.m. Music: 7 p.m. Little Lake Grange. 291 School St., Willits. 462-0913. deadwintercarpenters.com.
Sunday 22 FREE Healthy Family Fair. Tasty food samples, games, diabetic screening, kids’ Zumba, prizes, drawings & fun. Bring a picnic lunch. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Recreation Grove Park. E. Commercial St., Willits. 456-9676. avenuestowellness.org. FREE Willits Walk for Wellness & Health. Five-mile walk through
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Become a foster or adoptive parent and help change the life of a child (707) 463-1100
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Willits. 9–11 a.m. Walk starts at J.D. Redhouse. 212 S. Main St., Willits. willits.org.
Friday 27 Spring Festival & Rodeo. Parade, rodeo dance, raffles, competition, vendors & more. $10. Ages 10 & under free. Thru May 30. Some events free for all. Potter Valley Rodeo Grounds. 11250 Pine Ave., Potter Valley. pottervalleyrodeo.com.
Saturday 28 FREE Memorial Day Parade. The
theme this year is “Lake County Strong.” 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Main St., Lakeport. lakecochamber. chambermaster.com.
FREE Fishing Clinic. Law enforcement officers assist kids in fishing technique & fish cleaning. Pre-school–grade 5. Sponsored by Mendocino Coast Police Activities League. 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Joe Moura’s Pond. 18150 Ocean Dr., Fort Bragg. mendocinocoastpal.org. 8th Annual Lake Renaissance Festival. Step into 16th century Italy.
Food, drink, guides & entertainment. $8. Under 10 free. Those who come in costume or seniors get $3 off. Thru May 29. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Tuscan Village/ Terrill Cellars Winery. 16175 Main St., Lower Lake. lakerenfest.weebly.com. Lake County Show & Shine Car Show. Noon–4 p.m. Lake County
Fairgrounds. 401 Martin St., Lakeport. lakecochamber.chambermaster.com. Kiwanis Craft Fair. Artisans & crafters will be displaying & selling a wide range of handcrafted & food items. Proceeds support community projects. May 28: 9 a.m.–4 p.m. May 29: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Natural High. 810 N. Main St., Lakeport. lakecochamber. chambermaster.com.
Sunday 29 Lower Lake Daze Parade & BBQ. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Main St., Lower Lake. lakecochamber.chambermaster.com. 26th Annual Kiwanis Craft Fair.
Artisans & crafters will be selling a wide range of handcrafts & food items. Supports the Kiwanis Scholarship Fund as well as community projects. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Natural High. 810 N. Main St., Lakeport. lakecounty.com. 35th Annual Willits Community Festival & Car & Bike Show. Check
out classic cars & motorcycles. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Recreation Grove Park. E. Commercial St., Willits. willits.org.
Working with children since 1975
28 MendoLakeFamilyLife
May 2016 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
Marketplace Tutoring
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Tuition-free Montessori elementary for ages 5-13 Hands-on, arts and music integrated with academics
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ince the Model T was first mass-produced by Ford, America has had a fascination with cars. See why at the free Lake County Show and Shine car show on May 28, noon–4 p.m., at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Lakeport. Be sure to also check out the rides at the Willits Community Festival and Car Show on May 29, 8 a.m.–4 p.m., at Recreation Grove in Willits. While you admire the collection of rods, rat rods, resto-mods, Corvettes, Mustangs, motorbikes, and classic cars, you can also listen to live music, browse through vendor booths, and even participate in an arm-wrestling match. Get to the event early, and watch the cars arrive as you chow down on a pancake breakfast. The show is free. Tickets for breakie are $8 for adults and $6 for children under 12. ¶
707-468-1300
Located on north end of Fairgrounds PO Box 966 Ukiah 95482
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Upper Lake - 2nd Street Upper Lake - Clover Valley Lakeport - Howard Ave. Clearlake - Pearl Ave. • Free K-12 Public Charter Clearlake - Meadowbrook Dr.
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Applications online: www.ncoinc.org • (707) 462-2582 Fort Bragg - Lincoln St. On-Site Classes
A Toast to Pinot Noir
B
esides a grand coastline, one of Mendocino County’s greatest resources is wine. You can taste some of the area’s finest at the 19th Annual Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Festival, May 20–22. As far as the festival producers know, it’s the only festival in the world to celebrate a single varietal from a single appellation. The three-day event includes, on May 20, a technical conference at the Mendocino County Fairgrounds in Boonville, followed by a barbecue at Pennyroyal Farm in Boonville; and, on May 21, a winemaker dinner at the Ledford House in Albion, and a grand tasting featuring wines from more than 50 wineries at the Goldeneye Winery in Philo. For times and prices of events, see avwines.com. ¶
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Humor Break
Shower
SOS
Then there is a time for unbridled panic. This was one of those times. “Gracie, get down! You might get hurt!” Visions of red-hot burners and Gracie’s fair baby skin flashed through my mind.
A Mom Never Bathes Alone for Long
By Janeen Lewis
A
ll I wanted was a shower. A long, uninterrupted shower like the ones I took before I had children.
I know, I know. To have a shower of solitude, all I have to do is put in earplugs and lock the bathroom door. The Shower Diva, the not-so-perfect angel who sits on my left shoulder, often tells me this. However, Safety Freak Mom, the goody-two-shoes angel who sits on my right shoulder, says, “What if your kids need you, and they can’t get to you?” Nevertheless, one day when I was tired of quarrels about who owned the Scotch tape, I decided to get a little crazy and lock the bathroom door. Unfortunately, I didn’t get so crazy that I put in earplugs. Live and learn. I grabbed my “Carried Away” shower gel and told seven-year-old Andrew to watch four-year-old Gracie, and to knock on the door in case of an emergency. I explained that emergencies involve bleeding or poisoning, not whose turn it is to play a game at NickJr.com or watch a show on Netflix Kids. The first minute in the shower was glorious. Then I heard a noise. The Shower Diva said, “Ignore it. They’re fine.” 30 MendoLakeFamilyLife
Safety Freak Mom countered with, “What if one of them is hurt?” I stayed put. But as I got to my favorite part of the shower, the part where I lather shampoo into my hair with all the ecstasy of a woman in an Herbal Essence commercial, I heard what sounded like a thump and a yell. There was a commotion somewhere in
The first minute in the shower was glorious. Then I heard a noise. the house—I could feel it in my Mom bones. I turned the shower off. “Andrew, is something wrong?” He answered, but he might as well have been Charlie Brown’s teacher. I couldn’t understand a word he said, so I stepped out of the shower and onto the bath mat, every pore of my skin shrieking at the chilly air. I cracked the door. “Andrew, is everything okay?” “NO!” he yelled. “Gracie is getting up on the stove!” In every mom’s life, there is a time for nerves of steel. I pray for them, my SOS to God, when the computer crashes or the cat throws up on new carpet.
I yanked the towel off the rack and whipped it around me. I ran down the hall, slipping on the hardwood floor while Safety Freak Mom scolded, “What were you thinking? She’s practically still an infant!” As I slid past the kids’ bathroom, I skidded to a stop, confused. Both children stood in the bathroom, and while yes, I am a multitasker, no, I have not yet installed a stove in the bathroom. Andrew blocked Gracie from the sink with his whole body. Arms outstretched, he shielded her from—gasp!—the soap dispenser. Exasperated, he said, “Gracie is using up all of the soap!” From my heavenly little enclave in the back of the house, I’d heard, “Gracie is getting up on the stove!” I took a very deep breath. I was kind of glad Safety Freak Mom was with me. She gently coaxed, “Step away from the children, and no one gets hurt.” As I stood dripping in my towel, I knew the “stove” versus “soap” miscommunication would be really funny to me the next day. But that day, as I turned and walked slowly down the hall to get dressed, I wondered if I would take an uninterrupted shower this decade. I sighed and sent my daily SOS heavenward. Janeen Lewis is a freelance journalist and mother of two. She has yet to take an uninterrupted shower this decade.
May 2016 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
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1 Marcela Drive in Willits (On US 101, take Baechtel Rd., then East Hill Dr. & turn on Haehl Creek Dr.)
707.459.6801 www.howardhospital.org
Frank R. Howard Memorial Hospital