Saratoga Family Stories * Inspiring Prep * Winter Holiday Treats * and ...
Last Minute Gift Ideas!
so much more!
Winter 2018 Complimentary brought to you by
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Welcome to
Saratoga Family Magazine Chris Vallone Bushee Creative Director/Managing Editor cBushee@SaratogaPublishing.com (518) 581-2480 ext.201
Owner/Publisher Chad Beatty
General Manager Robin Mitchell
Can anybody else believe it’s December already? Since this winter issue of Saratoga Family comes out just before Christmas, I’m sure you all have your presents wrapped and safely tucked away - but just in case - we have an awesome LAST-MINUTE GIFT GUIDE if you need inspiration! We also have a few other much needed holiday / winter articles to round out the season and an awesome Save the Date section you’ll want to spend a few minutes with.
Then… put the magazine aside until everything’s done and you can sit with a beverage, perhaps a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and just enjoy the rest of these articles – they’re too good to miss! We have Awesome Families for you to meet…
From John and Linda Burger and their son Andrew (who I’m sure you’ll recognize from the Saratoga Farmers’ Market and will revel in the beautiful fall photos… it’s almost like turning back the calendar a month or two!!) to our cover family, the Ethiers, who you’re probably following on Instagram, to a group that just discovered they are family! …and since we know families come in all shapes and sizes- we even have an adorable family of five for you to meet – yes, three of them are rescued pups - but oh so cute!! The family features start on page 34. I love it when people brag on their children and tell me what’s going on in their lives. Wait till you see what our travel contributor Anne Gordon’s son Gus (and a ton of classmates, as well as the amazing Dave Bigler) did awhile back (page 50). If you’ve been too busy working on your TO DO list this holiday season, and have lost sight of the bigger picture, I have a collection of young people doing Inspirational Things that will put it all in perspective – wait till you meet them – very impressive! And of course, we have an awesome Travel Section because we all know that time spent with our families is what really matters. Whether you’re staying local, wandering just a bit or looking to become a Global Citizen… check out page 60 for some ideas. I’d like to thank our advertisers for helping Saratoga TODAY to be able to distribute these magazines – for free! - to the thousands that read each issue. Please mention us by name when frequenting their businesses. And thank you for picking up this copy, I hope you enjoy it and I hope to hear from you… comments, suggestions, story ideas, pet photos, or just to say hello! Happy Holidays, looking forward to seeing you in 2019! Love,
Chris
Oops...
Cover photo by SuperSourceMedia.com Read all about our cover family on page xx
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Saratoga Family
In our article "The Nutcracker" on page 52 of Simply Saratoga about the National Museum of Dance School of the Arts' upcoming performances we included several photographs which were not images of the school. Please note that only the 3rd and 4th images from the top are from the School of the Arts.
Creative Director - Managing Editor Chris Vallone Bushee Magazine Designer Marisa Scirocco Advertising Designer Morgan Rook Advertising Sales Jim Daley Cindy Durfey Contributing Writers Tim Blodgett Dr. Randy Cale Kristin Cleveland Ettie Jodi Fitz Dr. Marcie Fraser Anne Gordon John Kettlewell Lori Mahan Megin Potter Theresa St. John Ralph Vincent Rebecca Whalen Interns Lauren Closson Lindsey Fish Photographers Dave Bigler Pattie Garrett Randall Perry Marisa Scirocco SuperSourceMedia.com Theresa St. John Published by Saratoga TODAY Newspaper Five Case Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 tel: (518) 581-2480 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com Saratoga Family is brought to you by Saratoga TODAY Newspaper, Saratoga Publishing, LLC. Saratoga Publishing shall make every effort to avoid errors and omissions but disclaims any responsibility should they occur. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written consent of the publisher. Copyright © 2018, Saratoga TODAY Newspaper
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Contributors
TIM BLOGETT
Tim Blodgett is a proud father, lifelong outdoorsman, and an aspiring author. He grew up exploring the woods and fishing holes near his childhood home on the outskirts of Saratoga Springs. After graduating from Franklin Pierce College with a BA in Biology, Tim and his wife Rosemary, started a fishing tackle business. That business, 28 years later, is now Saratoga Tackle & Archery. Writer of the outdoor column, “All Outdoors”, he tries to communicate experiences rather than technical gobblygook.
DR. RANDY CALE
Dr. Cale is a Clifton Park-based parenting expert, author, speaker, and licensed psychologist who offers practical, no-nonsense parenting advice for all ages. His website, terrificparenting.com, features hundreds of articles and dozens of parenting products that will help you achieve your goal of happier children and a peaceful home. Additionally, Dr. Cale works with couples and provides individual counseling. Submit questions to DrRandyCale@gmail.com and follow him on Facebook and Twitter.
ETTIE
Ettie is an interior stylist, momma, wife, traveler and lover of all things chocolate. She designs places and spaces for homeowners and businesses. While she's not busy designing, traveling or perusing social media, you can catch her boppin' around town with her daughter Clementine and husband in tow. Most likely scoping out the newest eatery. Follow along on her adventures on Instagram: @ettieandco
JODIE FITZ
Jodie Fitz is the creator and personality of the Price Chopper Kids Cooking Club and currently travels in a six-state region cooking with children to encourage taste-testing fun through a hands-on cooking experience. She is a wife, mother of three, and currently authors several monthly columns. You can always find what she’s up to in her kitchen at jodiefitz.com.
DR. MARCIE FRASER
20 year veteran journalist, currently working as the Health and Fitness reporter for TWC News. Her published book, WHERE’D MY BUTT GO? is a self-help nutrition book that contains the knowledge and experience gained from her work as a Behavioral Eating Specialist. Marcie holds a Master’s in Public Health and just finished her Doctorate. An avid ballroom dancer, tri-athlete and retired bodybuilding champion, Marcie has motivated and counseled thousands of individuals. She is considered by some, THE FOOD THERAPIST.
ANNE GORDON
Anne Gordon is the owner of Live Life Travel, which is the only Virtuoso, Luxury Full Service Travel Planning Agency in Saratoga Springs, NY. They specialize in Honeymoons, Family Travel, Destination Weddings and Luxury Cruise. Anne is a devout travel enthusiast herself with a genuine passion for helping others make their travel dreams come true. To get more info on your next vacation, email Anne today: anne@livelifetravel.world. To find out more about Live Life Travel: www.livelifetravel.world
LORI MAHAN
Lori Mahan is a TV writer in a sports and education reporter’s body. She enjoys working with kids and supporting their accomplishments via Saratoga TODAY Newspaper, watching Netflix, and taking spontaneous weekend road trips.
MEGIN POTTER
Megin is an expressive writer and artist with work published in books, newspapers, corporate communications, and online. A resident of the region for over 20 years, she continues to discover anew the interesting people, places, and products it has to offer. As a mother to her active young son, she is inspired to explore even more.
THERESA ST. JOHN
Theresa is a freelance travel writer and photographer based in Saratoga Springs. Even though history was not on her radar while in high school, she has a deep interest in all things historical now. She has been on assignment for several magazines and is published in both print and online venues. Last year she traveled to Ireland on assignment, which, she states "was a trip of a lifetime." She is the proud mom to two young men and Nonnie to six rescued dogs, two chinchillas, and a bird. Life is good.
REBECCA WHALEN
A Capital Region native, Rebecca Whalen is a wife, mom of one, and the Communications and Development Manager for local food-access nonprofit, Capital Roots. By night she is a yogi-in-training and a freelance writer for publications in and around Albany and the Knoxville region of Tennessee, her former home. Her work spotlights innovative nonprofit and philanthropic work as well as local people, businesses and places.
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winter 2018
Saratoga Family 38
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contents
photo by SuperSourceMedia.com
photo by Dave Bigler
WRAP UP THE HOLIDAYS
MEET THE FAMILIES BEHIND…
TRAVEL
15 Last Minute Gift Guide
34 The Burger’s MarketGarden Farm
60 When you’re staying local
18 Gratitude with Dr. Cale
36 Rosebud Johnnies
61 Give the Gift of Time
22 Entertaining with Jodi Fitz
38 Our Cover Family
62 Heading South of It?
26 Save the Date
41 Saratoga’s “Instant Family”
30 Winter Safety Tips
44 Our Furriest Group
32 Winter Fun Guide
SO INSPIRING! 50 From Cyberspace to the Big Screen 52 Justin and Sophia 54 Ella Schoenborn 56 Jamie Heath 57 Maurice Greene
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The Winter
of my Content ALL OUTDOORS WRITTEN BY TIM BLODGETT PHOTOS BY MARISA SCIROCCO
o say that this year has been interesting would be a gross understatement. Summer blazed by in a rush only to be extinguished by a soggy autumn. Now here we are, on the cusp of winter, bracing for the coming cold and snow. There were far too many things on my plate the last few months and I allowed myself to become stuck in a rut. I did not take or make the opportunities to spend enough time outdoors. Too much work and too little play does not make Tim a happy boy. You can verify that with my long-suffering wife, Rose. Things finally settled down just in time for the opening of southern zone deer season and I finally had time to head into the woods. At the time of writing this article, I hadn’t filled any of my tags, and that’s okay with me. If I fill my freezer with venison, I’ll be happy. If not, the season will still be a success because I will have seen and done and thought things that I would not have, if I stayed indoors. This morning, while still hunting on land that I’ve known my whole life, I saw two deer, two coyotes, late migrating robins foraging for berries, a pileated woodpecker swooping from tree to tree, red squirrels and a mosquito. I didn’t expect the mosquito but there it was. My point is this, there are wonders, both common and unusual just outside your door. You don’t need to be an adventurer, you just need to make the time and keep your eyes and ears open.
others that they took down in their fall. That is the way of things in nature, but still it made me sad to see them lying there. I keep a journal in the pack I carry to take notes, jot ideas and scribble sketches. It came in handy that day and here’s what I wrote:
Last year, November 17th to be exact, I was seated at the base of a tree watching for deer when my mind wandered off as it often does. I was thinking about how much the woods had changed since the year before. We’d had some heavy weather that produced strong winds early the previous summer. Their tornado strong blasts toppled dozens of trees, some that had been standing for well over 100 years. Many were familiar landmarks I’d known since childhood, trees that were full grown over 40 years ago, each unique in form and stance. Now they lay tangled with
Until Overcome Smitten down Toppled by their burden They lie, and in their repose Silently return what was borrowed so that others may stand in their place
T
To Old Friends Mighty giants, heaven’s pillars Straining Straining against an unseen burden Crushed by that above Drawn to that below Thus, they stood Balancing heaven On earth Holding Bound in both For years unknown Striving, grasping, reaching Higher Deeper Bending, shedding, renewing Ever And again
f
Not Thoreau, but the best I could do in the moment. I had never written like that before, but since then, I’ve found great satisfaction writing poetry. I don’t know why, but I believe I drew from the well of inspiration that is nature. It’s all around us waiting to be discovered. Now, go out into nature and find inspiration. You may be surprised at what resides within you. f
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This day inHistory SUITING UP YOUR KIDS DECEMBER 25TH ...ForWinterWeather
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WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER
hristmas day is often what is called “a slow news day” because most people are at home celebrating with their families. Looking back at this day in history however, reveals that December 25th, here in Saratoga County, has certainly experienced many “newsworthy” events. • An “unusual number of crimes” throughout the country were recorded to have occurred during Christmas in 1887. • Some of the most notable local Christmas capers have involved brazen thefts. One of which was in 1995, when it was reported that five men were arrested in connection with a robbery of $11,000 from a Grand Union ATM on West Avenue. • In 2002, a local man woke up in jail Christmas morning after being arrested for his daring Christmas Eve hold-up of an armored vehicle parked outside of a Glenville K-mart. He was accused of stealing $40,000 before leading police on a high-speed chase which ended only when the wheel of the man’s car flew off on Round Lake Road, reports said. • That same year has been recorded as the snowiest Christmas on record. A total of 19.2 inches of snow fell, more than a foot of which had come down by 6 p.m., causing reports of more than 300 cars being off the road and knocking down a transformer that caused half of Ballston Spa and western Saratoga County to lose power. • Although 2002 was the snowiest, it wasn’t the coldest Christmas. That distinction belongs to 1969, when there was a record low temperature of -22 F degrees in this area. • Not since 1889, have we broken the record high of 66 degrees, but the Maple Avenue Fire Company did much to warm the hearts of local children on Christmas morning, when on Christmas Eve in 2006, they delivered 600 gifts to 30 families in Wilton and Greenfield. …Hmmm, we wonder what this Christmas will bring?! f
WRITTEN BY REBECCA WHALEN
The cold is here! And while that means our children will undoubtedly be enamored by the winter wonderland outside, many of us parents are dreading the inevitable: getting them suited up in their winter gear. Now that my son’s a toddler, choices have been our best friend. Do you want to put your coat on or would you like mama to? This works most of the time, but when it comes to adding on the layers and keeping them on, we all know that’s never as simple. Our solution has been to adapt and distract. And let me tell you that it has made a world of difference. With minimal extra time in the morning, I pick out his outfit the night before and bring it downstairs, so we don’t have that battle right as he gets up. I give him time to wake up and eat, then offer him time with his toys. He plays at his table while we talk (and distract!) and I help him get dressed at the same time. Shoes are always a question but, on most days, I get mine on first and get excited with him that we will be matching in our big boots for the day. Before we know it, he’s completely ready, happy as a clam that he got five extra minutes of play. When it comes to his coat, the double layer version is a dream. The inner layer should be thin enough that he can comfortably and safely keep it on in the car - while buckled in his car seat - yet still be warm. Keep the outer waterproof layer by the door and a full extra hat and glove set in the car, along with a blanket for his legs. You can never be too prepared! As with most things, shower them with praise when they’ve done it well. And if all else fails, try a sticker chart. You’d be surprised how often a tiny sticker can keep a boot on. f
Local A uthor Spotlight
OVER MY SHOULDER: A Collection of “Over My Shoulder” and “Passed Times” Columns Published in The Post-Star from 1994-2003; Volume 1: 1994-1997. Combining local history, commentary, and personal reminiscences and covering Warren, Washington and Saratoga Counties, this will make the perfect last-minute gift for anybody interested in local lore! 175 pages, with 104 columns and a comprehensive index to find anything you might be interested in! $9.95 plus tax. PipingRock.wordpress.com/where-to-buy-over-my-shoulder or Amazon.com
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WinterWeather ,DRIVING GET WHERE YOU NEED TO GO…
SAFELY!
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WRITTEN BY DR. MARCIE FRASER
inter time in the northeast is synonymous with snow, sleet and freezing rain. If you have to drive during the chilly months chances are you will be faced with some tricky - even treacherous - road conditions. Keep ahead of the storm and reduce your risk of an accident in bad weather. Here are a few tips for safer driving on slippery roads. It’s critical you examine your current tires. Worn out tires with little tread can act like ice skates on wintery roads. HOW DO KNOW IF YOU NEED NEW TIRES? Other than the obvious sign - a bald tire - it can be a little tricky to determine if you need to head to the tire store. The most accurate method is using a tread depth finder used by your local tire store, or you can use the ‘penny’ test. Place a penny upside down between the tread, if you can see all of Lincoln’s head, the tires aren’t safe and skidding on slick roads is more likely. Once you determine you need new tires – beware not all tires are equal. The safest tire for wintery roads are studded tires. Studded tires are equipped with metal spikes that grip the ground and provide the most traction. Studded tires can be mounted for winter months and swapped out for an all-weather radial tire come Spring. Keep in mind, not all four tires have to be studded, two tires are fine, however, if you have a son or daughter who has yet to drive in the winter, all four tires should be studded for ultimate safety. If you choose not to stud your tires, you then must use snow tires. For the safest drive it’s recommended to mount all fours. Reason being; snow tires are not only for traction but also for breaking and most cars are equipped with an all-wheel breaking system. Tire tips: Two reasons you will run through tires faster: poor air pressure and your car is out alignment. • Check your air pressure monthly. • Keep your car aligned: your car is out of alignment if, when driving straight, it pulls to one side. Keep your car in tip top driving condition by making an appointment with a local tire center. Adirondack Tire at 240 Washington Street will do it for free. f saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
Northshire BOOK PICKS HOME MADE CHRISTMAS Adult Cookbook, by Yvette Van Boven $35 This gorgeous holiday cookbook takes the angst out of party prep. Beautifully photographed & laced with lots of good advice, this cookbook will inspire your holiday table.
ALL-OF-A-KIND FAMILY HANUKKAH Kids Picture Book, by Emily Jenkins & Paul O. Zelinsky $17.99 The beloved family classic is back just in time for the holidays. Gertie wants to help make the holiday meal, but at four years old is too young to make the latkes. Instead she's given the best job of all: lighting the menorah
THE CHRISTMAS WIND Kids Picture book, by Stephanie Simpson McLellan and Brooke Kerrigan $19.95 A touching story about a family seeking shelter from the bitter winter wind - and the true meaning of Christmas.
THE GIRL WHO SAVED CHRISTMAS Kids Chapter Book, by Matt Haig & Chris Mould $7.99 Father Christmas needs to find the girl who once possessed the most hope in order to restore his Christmas magic - but can he help her believe again in time?
GMORNING, GNIGHT! Adult general interest, by Lin-Manuel Miranda $22.00 What a treat! Miranda has been tweeting daily motivations for years, and now we have a collection of the best, in a beauty of a book. Do yourself a favor, get this book now, and let its beacon of light and positivity guide your way. winter 2018 | SARATOGA FAMILY 13
l e t t C i l h r a i s t w m o a r s G When the world is wintery white and the skies are grey, the bright contrast of green growing things is one of nature’s greatest gifts. WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS PROVIDED
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hristmas is a time when certain plants are popular, but with them, the misconceptions about how long they last and how to care for them abound.
Since Christian Dehn bought a Saratoga Springs flower shop in 1892, caring for plants and flowers has developed and been passed down through five generations of the family. Today, Dehn’s Flowers carries more than one million plants and has expanded to include a second shop in Ballston Spa. One of the owners and greenery expert, John Mishoe, works in their greenhouses and shares some of his best tips on how to care for Christmas plants.
Poinsettias
The vibrant and stunning color of this potted plant can last all the way to February with proper care, said Mishoe. For this beauty, the biggest culprit to a quicker die-off is overwatering. Instead, when watering a poinsettia, aim for mildly moist, he said. “A plant will recover from wilt, but it won’t recover from rot,” said Mishoe. Dehn’s grows four different colors of poinsettias in two greenhouses dedicated just to them. At home, keep poinsettias in a warm spot with plenty of sunlight. The poinsettia’s flowers are the small yellow petals in the middle of the plant. It’s actually the leaves (bracts) that change color. To keep poinsettias growing, and this color coming back year after year, cut them back in July. Beginning in October, encourage their winter colors to return by putting poinsettias in a dark closet at 5 p.m.
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Mistletoe
Dispelling the myth that poinsettias are poisonous, Mishoe says there’s another traditional holiday plant that is – mistletoe. “You’d have to eat a lot of poinsettias for them to be poisonous, but mistletoe is poisonous. Keep it up high and out of reach.” Watch out for this dangerous delight because it holds more risk than just the possibility of a quick kiss. Mistletoe has toxic chemicals, so you and your pets should not ingest the leaves or the berries. When you get mistletoe for your next holiday party, mist it, put it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh, then hang it and it will last for two weeks indoors, said Mishoe.
Evergreens
The secret to Dehn’s long-lasting evergreen trees and displays is keeping the moisture in them from drying out. Choosing to sell just 50 cut Christmas trees a year; they offer 4’, 6’, 8’, and 10–foot top-quality Balsam and Frasier Fir trees. Spraying them with a translucent wax gives the branches a bit of shine and holds in moisture for the rest of the season. Dehn’s also keeps the trees’ trunks in water until they are sold. Custom evergreen wreaths, kissing balls and centerpieces get this same treatment. Mix an assortment of blooms with candles and decorative items for a joyful addition to your holiday home. f
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Last Minute Gift Guide COMPILED AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARISA SCIROCCO
Michael Levane, Sophia Leveroni, Cam Rhodes, James Cronier and Kieran Rhodes
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Gifts for
KIDS & TEENS
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3 4
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1. LIFESTYLES Kimono Clips $12-$25 2. CAROLINE & MAIN Hat by Cymbo $30 3. CAROLINE & MAIN POL pajama pants $55 4. CAROLINE & MAIN Pajama shorts $35 5. IMPRESSIONS Toasty Toez horse boots $22.99 6. NORTHSHIRE BOOKSTORE Domino Train $20.99 7. LEX & CLEO Racing cars $54 8. LEX & CLEO Moccasins, Chelsea boots $60, $66 9. G.WILLIKERS Light Stax 10. LEX & CLEO Julia jacket $80 11. LEX & CLEO Reindeer hat $9.75
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Gifts for
YOUR HOST OR HOLIDAY PARTY 1 2 12
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1. TOGA HERITAGE Custom luminaries $34 2. LUCIA Boxy cosmetic pouch $32 3. LUCIA Crystal facial roller $38 4. PAPERDOLLS Russell and Hazel gold acrylic stapler $18 5. PAPERDOLLS Lollia bubbling bath $38 6. TOGA HERITAGE Weather proof blanket $38 7. TOGA HERITAGE Travel umbrella $42 8. SARATOGA TEA & HONEY Pumpkin spiced honey $17 9. SARATOGA TEA & HONEY Bamboo wrapped tea flask 10. DARK HORSE Belgian beer glass $12.99 11. LIFESTYLES Box of assorted hand creams $25, $7.75 each 12. CAROLINE & MAIN Pine glass and wood candle $35
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The Why and How of
Gratitude
This Holiday Season WRITTEN BY DR. RANDY CALE
Most of us are willing to stay up late, work overtime and stretch the family budget for our kids. We stress ourselves searching, shopping and planning for the gifts that we hope bring joy and happiness this season. We are prone to additional stress with more and more commitments to our sacred and limited time, all in service of better experiences for our children. Yet for many, we find our children lack the sense of gratitude for all that we do. In the modern world, should we really be seeking gratitude?
Why Gratitude? Why all the fuss about gratitude anyway? We could just move on with the rest of the herd, focused on getting more and more…rather than having gratitude for what we have. Correct? Well, as it turns out, there are good reasons to choose gratitude! Let me start with a bold claim:
Gratitude opens the door to ALL the good stuff in life. When we are greedy, seeking more and more stuff, we are simply revealing our sense of not having enough (and perhaps more deeply…the fear that we are not ‘enough’ as we are). Gratitude, however, forces us into the opposite perspective. Being continuously grateful requires me to see where I do have enough, and to sense the world as a full, abundant experience where my life is constantly filled with gifts, regardless of where I turn. The deep sense of gratitude counter-acts these fears of inadequacy, or the fear that either we or our children, will miss out on something. When we are grateful, that sense of fullness then opens the door to experience what we deeply want to experience. We realize we are not missing out by seeking something else. Through appreciation, we discover more happiness and joy, and research proves this to be a potent deterrent to depressive thoughts. We smile more when we are grateful. We are more gracious, generous and satisfied. Life is lighter and easier, when looking at the world through grateful glasses. In essence, all the good stuff flows from this abundance sense of gratitude in life.
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How to Nurture Gratitude in your Home! 1. BE THE PERSON YOU WANT YOUR CHILD TO BE!
4. GET YOUR CHILDREN ENGAGED IN GIVING.
Many of us talk about gratitude. And for many, it's just talking. We are seldom ‘walking our talk.’
Most children have magnanimous hearts. They love giving. All we must do is create an environment that supports that.
This means that Mom and Dad tend to still complain about the traffic, the crazy shoppers, the rude person in line and the cold French fries. We are conditioned, in many ways, to notice the problems and the ‘what’s wrong’ aspects of life. When we do this, however, it leads us down a path that we often dislike in our children. So how do we turn this around? It begins when we start with the person in the mirror.
2. BEGIN YOUR NEW OBSESSION: APPRECIATION. Consider how life might be for you, and your family, if you obsessed on what you value and appreciate. Rather than letting your past programming bring more worry, more nagging and more complaints, turn toward the act of noticing where you see beauty, kindness, love, and courage. Smile at these moments, and express your gratitude every opportunity you can. Don’t find yourself talking about gratitude again, in big and superfluous ways. Instead, do gratitude. Be grateful. Resolve today to appreciate more of what you have, and to let your children see and hear this. Stop complaining and stop noticing what’s not right in your world. Instead, focus and nurture discussions on what you love, what you enjoy, and what makes you laugh. Make a conscious choice to engage in conversations around these topics, and notice that your attitude will infect your family with a more positive outlook.
3. DECIDE TO GIVE…INCESSANTLY. Let’s start with some clarification: This is not about giving away all your possessions or buying your way to happiness by giving away big, expensive stuff. This giving is about something much more meaningful. It’s about a giving heart and a smile. It is about noticing that you can offer something to everyone you meet, and that begins with your intention to give. If your goal is to smile, offer an uplifting comment or be kind and gracious regardless, this is the giving that touches others. More importantly, there is profound power in the giving that has no expectation of return. When we give, just to offer a moment of joy or a smile to others, we can do so without needing a response. Will you get a response? Yes, often you will. But sometimes it will be a frown, sometimes a roll of the eyes and yet often, it will be met with a smile. This is great teaching for your children. You would like them to witness that mom or dad does not need to complain, argue or fight about the Holidays, but instead they observe you spreading joy and smiles everywhere you go. Then, watch them catch the fever. Sure, the older ones may take time…but know that what you model matters. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
We can do that with ensuring that the family volunteers it’s time. This is the ultimate way children can give. We can also have them involved in helping find, wrap and deliver gifts to those not as privileged. The same is true for gifts to friends and family. The key is involvement…the joyful, sweet engagement in giving.
5. WHEN CHILDREN DO COMPLAIN, SEND THEM TO THE MIRROR? Inevitably, many children will complain or whine. (They may have learned this from you.) Regardless, you can’t ‘lecture’ them out of this. You can’t ‘correct’ them out of it. However, you can eliminate this from your home. Let the kids that you will be making a change for the Holidays. Acknowledge perhaps, that Mom or Dad has often responded to their complaints or negative outlook toward their homework, their school, their siblings or even their gifts, and that this is changing. Explain, “Starting today, I am no longer interested in talking about your complaints over and over. It doesn’t help. Instead, I will ask you to share all your complaints or whiny comments to the kid you see in the mirror. Perhaps they will find them interesting!” To make this clear, have a big smile on your face and bring your children to a mirror. Then show them exactly what you mean. Make a list of recent complaints or whining comments. Then, show them what to do with their complaints by stating the complaints to the person in the mirror. Ask them to do the same, with a few recent complaints. It is likely that they will laugh at you. That’s okay. Just make sure your kids are clear about where to go to make their complaints. You can even suggest (as you smile) that perhaps they will want to remember for the years to come. This frees you to ignore and walk about from the negative complaints while the kids are home. In the end, we give…discovering that we get (what we really want). The focus on gratitude and giving allows us to experience a more meaningful, deeply rewarding life. If we want our children to have this experience, we must pave the path for them. With these suggestions, you are ready to embark upon nurturing a more grateful home this Holiday Season. It has been a pleasure to share my ideas with you this year, and I am grateful for this opportunity to reach into your lives and perhaps make a small difference. Happy Holidays! f
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FamlyValues COMPILED BY MEGIN POTTER
I
t’s all too easy to take people for granted and to miss out on the opportunities for connection that come at often unexpected moments.
It is our values that determine how we treat one another, navigate change, understand tough situations and face complex emotions. We learn values from other people, through religion, and in our experiences taking each day as it comes. Whatever your values are, they will determine how you behave in your own house, as well as a member of society. Which values are you building in your family? Our contributors share some of their best advice about instilling family values:
“Focus first on building character. Teach kindness, respect, inclusion, gratitude, humility. Show more than tell and live like the person you want your children to become.” -Colleen Pierre
provide the platform for their future development as responsible and values-guided adults. If you want your kids to treat others kindly, fairly and with respect, you need to walk that walk every day." - Maureen Werther
“Make sure you turn off the TV, radio and cell phone for 1/2 an hour each day. It's so important "Teach kids the importance of saying “please” to actually talk to one another every single day.” and “thank you” early! It's such an easy way to - Theresa St. John show respect and thoughtfulness." -Megan Harrington “Even if you're not a 'scrapbooker' like I am take tons of pictures and document everything It goes by too fast and this will ensure you all remember it.” -Chris Vallone Bushee "Never think that your children are not watching everything you do, the way you treat others and the way you conduct yourself in all situations. Even if they are very young, they are far more observant than we might think. And our actions
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“Try to eliminate “don’t” and “should” from your vocabulary. “Don’t” is a hard word for the human brain to process. Just say what you want. (Instead of “don’t run”, say “walk”). “Should” implies that there is a right and wrong way to do things, when it’s all just a matter of perspective.”
– Megin Potter f
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winter 2018 | SARATOGA FAMILY  21
ENTERTAINING
Made Easy!
BY JODIE FITZ
Hi, I’m Jodie Fitz! I’m so excited to be sharing some of our family favorites with the readers of Saratoga Family magazine! I have spent the last six years traveling in SIX (!) states cooking with kids & families…I can relate to the BUSY COOK! As my recipe collection continues to grow, I am starting to share some of the recipes that you will find at our house for meals… Enjoyed by both family… and friends! I am always experimenting & creating tasty bites, finding the simplest way to do it and love sharing great flavor and time-saving finds along the way.
STRAWBERRY SANTA HATS Oreo cookies (double stuffed is always extra delish when having a treat) Whipped topping (spray can is fine) Strawberries, fresh • Wash and dry the strawberries. • Cut the greens off to create a flat surface. • Spray a circle of whipped topping on the top of your cookie. • Place the strawberry on top & add a little squirt of whipped topping on the very top of the strawberry.
GRINCHED HOT COCOA 2 cups milk 1 cup white chocolate morsels ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 4 drops blue food coloring 2 crops of yellow food coloring Mini marshmallows (optional) • Warm the milk in a saucepan over medium to low heat, bringing it to a beginning boiling point with bubbles around the edges. • Stir in the vanilla extract and white chocolate morsels. • Stir until the morsels are fully melted. Remove the mixture from the heat. • Stir in the food coloring & serve. Optional: Top with mini marshmallows.
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You can always catch what’s going on in our lives at www.jodiefitz.com and www.facebook.com/ jodiefitzcooks, or check out my cook books - available on my website!
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photos by Dave Bigler
Decorating Saratoga WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER
F
rom the Broadway businesses, to the festive Lake Avenue fire station and the gorgeous Circular Street homes, the twinkling lights begin to appear as Saratoga decks the town in holiday spirit.
Classically Christmas The steps involved (in hanging hundreds of wreaths and miles of lights on trees that are all aglow) come together like a dance. “It’s been choreographed for a long time,” said John Mishoe of Dehn’s Flowers. They decorate some of the area’s most recognizable financial institutions for the holiday season, including the Adirondack Trust Company branch offices. Assortments of wreaths, ranging from 2-feet in diameter to the massive 12-foot-size adorn the classic columns on these buildings.
Updated Holiday Fare Originally designed decades ago, the years have brought some changes to their holiday decorations.
Instead of cranes, they now use a bucket loader truck to lift the wreaths into position high overhead. Now made from artificial greenery in many instances, they no longer use as much roping as they once did. The strings of incandescent lights were replaced with the safer and longer-lasting LED lights six years ago. When the Wilton branch caught fire in 2017, all the decorations that were stored there were destroyed and had to be replaced.
Lasting Festivity In his own home, Mishoe flanks the fireplace with poinsettias and places them amongst the Santa figurines that his wife, Terry Dehn Mishoe collects. The porch columns are spun in roping and lights adorn the window boxes filled with evergreens, white branches and pinecones. With all the work that goes into setting up these enormous displays, Mishoe said after they are done, he leaves them be. Like so many of us, his home’s decorations stay up until Valentine’s Day. f
photo by Megin Potter
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winter 2018 | SARATOGA FAMILY 23
MY FAVORITE DESSERT...
BAKED ALASKA
A Delicious New Year’s Tradition! WRITTEN BY RALPH VINCENT
F
or so many people December 31st is an occasion to celebrate with champagne filled festivities until midnight or later. This is in no manner the case in our home - late night revelers we are not. As a matter of fact by the time the famed ball of Waterford Crystal begins its annual descent in Times Square, my family and I will have been asleep for hours.
At dinner time we clear the island and lay out a buffet with entrees such as Spinach Lasagna that easily serves a large group and can be prepared in advance. A large garden salad as well as bread and rolls round out the meal. Our friends serve themselves and we all meet at the dining room table which Steven always sets in festive holiday style.
Steven and I prefer to honor this momentous event on New Year’s Day. The first day of the year is one of our favorite holidays, and our festivities always include three essential traditions.
After dinner coffee, tea and cordials are served. Then it is time for our third New Year’s Day tradition, an extraordinary and delicious dessert known as Baked Alaska.
The earliest of our traditions began on the first New Year’s Day we celebrated together. Steven surprised me with a set of beautiful champagne flutes. We enjoyed using these special glasses so much, and decided to make this gesture our yearly custom. Each year we take turns selecting a pair of champagne glasses and keep them hidden until the big reveal on New Year’s Day. We strive to find glasses that are unique as well as beautiful. Over time our collection has grown and represents an eclectic mix of styles, many are trendy yet elegant; others have a funky flair, and some are of mid-century modern design. Our second tradition is the annual New Year’s Day dinner we host for our friends. The festivities start early in the afternoon. Champagne, cocktails, and an assortment of appetizing starters are served from our kitchen island. Stuffed mushrooms and coconut shrimp are kept warm in chafing dishes, Finger foods such as canapes of cucumber and smoked salmon are offered, along with a cheese board, sliced baguette and a variety of crackers.
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Baked Alaska first appeared in high end restaurants during the late nineteenth century. Featured on the menus of “Antoine’s” in New Orleans and “Delmonico’s” in New York, the combination of cold ice cream surrounded by cake and a warm browned shell of meringue was a sensation. Over one hundred years later this legendary confection is still enjoyed. You might think that a dessert as elegant and exciting as Baked Alaska would be difficult to make, but actually it can be quite easy to assemble, and much of the preparation can be done in advance. My recipe for Baked Alaska is prepared ahead of time and browned in a hot oven just before serving. The choice of cake and ice cream flavors are up to you. I try a new combination each year. Some pairings I have used with delicious results include dark chocolate cake with cherry ice cream, and Red Velvet cake with vanilla bean gelato. Whichever combination of flavors you use, Baked Alaska is a dessert that will amaze your guests and make your holiday meal a memorable occasion. f saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
Baked Alaska
Two 9-inch round cake layers, flavor of choice. 1.5 to 2-quart carton of best quality ice cream, flavor of choice. (You may not use all of it). 1 cup of sugar. Enough egg whites to make 1 cup, at room temperature. Place one cake layer on a heat proof pan. I like to use a 12-inch round metal pizza pan securely covered with heavy duty aluminum foil. Cover the cake with the ice cream to form a layer 1 to 1 and 1/2 inches thick and about Âź inch in from the cake edge. Slice the second cake layer into 4 triangles and place them over the ice cream to form a dome like shape. Try to minimize the spaces between the cake layers. Place the assembled cake and ice cream in the freezer for at least one hour. Prepare the meringue just before you are ready to remove the cake from the freezer. To make the meringue, pour the egg whites into the bowl of a stand mixer with the whisk attachment in place. Whip the egg whites using the high speed setting until soft peaks develop. Carefully and slowly add the sugar and continue whipping the mixture until it becomes glossy and firm. Retrieve your cake from the freezer and cover with the meringue as evenly as possible. I use a small rubber spatula and try to make the meringue covering about 1 inch thick. Be sure to seal the edges at the bottom of the cake. Smooth out the meringue over the cake as needed, covering any gaps. At this point you can make a swirl pattern over the meringue surface. When you are finished, place the cake back in the freezer for a minimum of 2 to 3 hours. Just before serving preheat your oven to 500 degrees. Retrieve the cake from the freezer and put in the oven. Brown the cake for 2 to 5 minutes, the time to brown can vary so be sure to stay put in front of the oven and check the cake every minute or so until the meringue is lightly browned. Remove the Baked Alaska from the oven. Cut into serving size pieces and enjoy! f
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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15 SARATOGA CITY BALLET PRESENTS: THE NUTCRACKER PREVIEW Saratoga Springs Public Library, H. Dutcher Community Room, Saratoga Springs, 1 – 2 p.m. Please join us for this time-honored winter classic. Saratoga City Ballet presents a preview of their production of The Nutcracker ballet. For all ages. No registration required.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15 & SUNDAY DECEMBER 16 A CHRISTMAS STORY Home Made Theater at The Spa Little Theater, 19 Roosevelt Dr., Saratoga Springs, 1 p.m. It’s almost Christmas and more than anything in the world Ralphie wants a Red Ryder 200-Shot Carbine Action Range Model Air Rifle, but his parents don’t seem to think it’s a good idea. His mother warns, “You’ll shoot your eye out,” and his father is too busy tinkering with the family’s furnace and evading the dogs from next door to pay much attention. Tickets: $18 for adults and $12 for children 12 and under. CBS 6 MELODIES OF CHRISTMAS Proctors, 432 State St., Schenectady, Saturday 7 p.m. and Sunday 3 p.m. Celebrating 39 years, CBS 6 Melodies of Christmas is the Capital Region’s premiere holiday extravaganza! Featuring the Empire State Youth Orchestra and Youth Chorale with special guests Grand Central Station, Professor Louie and the Crowmatix, The Northeast Ballet and Orlando’s School of Dance. Net proceeds benefit the Melodies Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at the Bernard and Millie Duker Children’s Hospital at Albany Medical Center.
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December- February PHOTOS BY MARISA SCIROCCO
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20 HORSE EXPLORERS SERIES National Museum of Racing, 191 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16 A SARATOGA CHRISTMAS WITH THE MCKRELLS Home Made Theater at The Spa Little Theater, 19 Roosevelt Dr., Saratoga Springs, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Home Made Theater continues their tradition of hosting Christmas shows with Kevin McKrell and his merry musicians. Join HMT for an evening of Christmas favorites, Kevin’s trademark sound, and their popular rendition of A Visit from St. Nick (‘Twas the Night Before Christmas). Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for children 12 and under. BLUE CHRISTMAS TRIBUTE EVENT Panza's Restaurant, 510 Route 9P, Saratoga Springs, 6 p.m. Showcasing the King's hits from the 50s through the 70s, this concert will cover Elvis's heartwarming Christmas tunes and many fan favorites, too. Matthew Boyce has performed professionally since the age of eight. He has competed at Elvis festivals throughout the U.S. and Canada and recently placed first at the Lake George Elvis Festival. He says he was “bit by the Elvis bug early,” under the influence of his grandmother and aunt, who were huge Elvis fans. This show also features, Spencer Boyce, the 2017 Images of the King Youth WORLD CHAMPION as well as special guest Michael Panza! Tickets for the show are only $20. Doors open at 5 p.m. for light fare and bar (separate tab). Get your tickets now at www.MatthewBoyceAsTheKing.com or call 518-618-7999.
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Recommended for ages 3-6, “Horse Explorers” is a hands-on series intended to creatively educate children about horses by developing age-appropriate skills in disciplines including art, literacy, science and math. The program will be staffed by the Museum’s professional educators. Children are free with paid adult admission.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21 SARATOGA CITY BALLET 25TH ANNIVERSARY NUTCRACKER The Egg, 1 Empire State Plaza, Albany, 7:30 – 9 p.m. Directed and choreographed by Beth Fecteau, this is Saratoga City Ballet’s 25th Anniversary production of the Nutcracker – a perfect holiday treat for audiences of all ages! The Nutcracker takes place Dec. 21st at 7:30 pm and Dec. 22nd at 2:00 and 7:30 pm at the magical Hart Theater, The Egg, Empire State Plaza. Tickets are $28 for adults, $20 for Students / Seniors and Children 5 and under are free! Group tickets are also available for a discount. Tickets cost $28 Adults, $20 Student and Senior, Kids 5 and under FREE. To purchase tickets, call 518-473-1845.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 26 & THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27 MAKE AND TAKE WINTER CRAFT Saratoga Springs Public Library, The Children’s Room, Saratoga Springs, All Day Looking for something to do this week? Stop in and create your own winter wonderland (minus the melt) with our make and take crafts for all ages. No registration required.
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December- February FRIDAY, DECEMBER 28 21ST ANNUAL FIRST NIGHT SARATOGA 5K RUN
THE PUPPET PEOPLE PRESENT: “A CHRISTMAS CAROL” Saratoga Springs Public Library, H. Dutcher Community Room, Saratoga Springs, 11 a.m. – Noon and 1 – 2 p.m. A Charles Dickens holiday classic, this show features beautiful handcrafted marionettes, shadow puppets, gorgeous masks, lavish costumes, vivid sets, a professional soundtrack that includes many holiday favorites, and a giant 9-foot parade puppet. Pick up free tickets in the Children's Room beginning December 1, 2018. For children ages 5 and up.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 29 WILTON BICENTENNIAL HOLIDAY DINNER Saratoga Wilton Elks Lodge #161, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs, 6 – 9 p.m.
Begin the First Night celebration right by joining the run before the huge New Year's event! Start and finish on the beautiful Skidmore campus. The first 3/4 mile is a gradual uphill on the perimeter road. The course exits the campus at Clinton Avenue and continues to Greenfield Avenue, continuing up North Broadway and back to campus. This is a moderately challenging course, including both hills and downgrades. Limited to 1,500 Runners: Due to the overwhelming success of this run and having to close-out registration several years in a row, there will be no dayof race registration. Awards: To the top three overall male and female finishers, and top three male and female finishers in each 5-year age division. No duplicate awards. All registered runners will receive a limited edition First Night Saratoga commemorative shirt. Register Early! Registration is $25 through October 31, $30 through December 23, and $35 through December 30. Entry fees are nonrefundable and non-transferable. To register, visit RunSignUp.com/Race/NY/SaratogaSprings/ SaratogaArtsFirstNight5k
Save the dat
the community is invited to gather at the Wilton Elks club to enjoy dinner, dancing, entertainment, and a cash bar for $20.18. Entertainment will be provided by Richie Phillips and food by Waterford Banquets. Come and enjoy an evening of fun with friends and neighbors as we celebrate the beginning of 2019 together and the close of a historic and memorable Bicentennial year.
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Skidmore College Athletic Complex, Perimeter Rd., Saratoga Springs, 5:30 p.m.
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 31 FIRST NIGHT SARATOGA 2019 Downtown Saratoga Springs, 6 p.m. – 12 a.m. First Night is a New Year’s celebration of the arts and community. Saratoga First Night is the largest New Year’s Eve event outside of New York City. Each year, thousands of revelers come to Saratoga Springs to experience a wide-ranging variety of arts and music. It is a true showcase of the diverse and immense talent in the Capital-Saratoga region. For more information visit saratoga-arts.org/firstnight.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 12 HATTIE’S ANNUAL MARDI GRAS PARTY Canfield Casino, Congress Park, Saratoga Springs, 6 – 10 p.m. Mardi Gras was created in honor of Miss Hattie to carry out her legacy of charitable giving. Every year a local non-for–profit is chosen to be the recipient of the proceeds raised from Hattie’s Mardi Gras Soiree. It is traditionally held at the Canfield Casino the Saturday of Martin Luther King weekend in January. This Year’s Mardi Gras benefits Jake's Help from Heaven
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15 – SUNDAY FEBRUARY 17 THE 2019 FLURRY FESTIVAL Saratoga Springs City Center, 522 Broadway, Saratoga Springs Shake off the winter blues! It's time to dance, sing, jam, and more at The Flurry Festival! The 32nd Flurry Festival! The Flurry is well-known as the best winter weekend ever for dancers and music lovers of all ages! Featuring: dances, workshops, singing, concerts, jamming performances, family events, storytelling, vendors, and more.
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WINTER SAFETY TIPS COMPILED BY LINDSEY FISH
WINTERIZE YOUR CAR
Get your car ready for cold weather use before winter arrives.
• Service the radiator and maintain antifreeze level; check tire tread or, if necessary, replace tires with all-weather or snow tires. • Keep gas tank full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines. • Use a wintertime formula in your windshield washer.
WINTERIZE YOUR HOME.
• Winterize your home • Install weather stripping, insulation, and storm windows. • Insulate water lines that run along exterior walls. • Clean out gutters and repair roof leaks. • Check your heating systems. • Have your heating system serviced professionally to make sure that it is clean, working properly, and ventilated to the outside. • Inspect and clean fireplaces and chimneys. • Install a smoke detector. Test batteries monthly and replace them twice a year. • Have a safe alternate heating source and alternate fuels available. • Prevent carbon monoxide (CO) emergencies. • Install a CO detector to alert you of the presence of the deadly, odorless, colorless gas. Check batteries when you change your clocks in the fall and spring. • Learn symptoms of CO poisoning: headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.
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• Prepare a winter emergency kit to keep in your car in case you become stranded: • Cell phone and portable charger, and extra batteries if applicable • Blankets • Food and water
PREPARE FOR COLD WEATHER EMERGENCIES Be prepared for weather-related emergencies, including power outages.
• Stock food that needs no cooking or refrigeration and water stored in clean containers. • Ensure that your cell phone is fully charged. • When planning travel, be aware of current and forecasted weather conditions. • Keep an up-to-date emergency kit, including: • Battery-operated devices, such as a flashlight, a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio, and lamps • Extra batteries • First-aid kit and extra medicine • Baby items • Cat litter or sand for icy walkways • Protect your family from carbon monoxide. • Keep grills, camp stoves, and generators out of the house, basement and garage • Locate generators at least 20 feet from the house • Leave your home immediately if the CO detector sounds and call 911 once safely outside.
• Booster cables, flares, tire pump, and a bag of sand or cat litter (for traction) • Compass and maps • Flashlight, battery-powered radio, and extra batteries • First-aid kit • Plastic bags (for sanitation).
TAKE THESE PRECAUTIONS OUTDOORS Many people spend time outdoors in the winter; working, traveling, or enjoying winter sports. Outdoor activities can expose you to several safety hazards, but you can take these steps to prepare for them: Wear appropriate outdoor clothing; a tightly woven, preferably wind-resistant coat or jacket; inner layers of light, warm clothing; mittens; hats; scarves; and waterproof boots. • Sprinkle cat litter or sand on icy patches. • Learn safety precautions to follow when outdoors. • Work slowly when doing outside chores. • Take a buddy and an emergency kit when you are participating in outdoor recreation. • Carry a cell phone.
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DO THIS WHEN YOU PLAN TO TRAVEL
When planning travel, be aware of current and forecasted weather conditions. • Avoid traveling when the weather service has issued advisories. • If you must travel, inform a friend or relative of your proposed route and expected time of arrival. • Follow these safety rules if you become stranded in your car. • Make your car visible to rescuers. Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna, raise the hood of the car (if it is not snowing), and turn on the inside overhead lights (when your engine is running). • Move anything you need from the trunk into the passenger area. Stay with your car unless safety is no more than 100 yards away. • Keep your body warm. Wrap your entire body, including your head, in extra clothing, blankets, or newspapers. Huddle with other people if you can. • Stay awake and stay moving. You will be less vulnerable to cold- related health problems. As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to improve circulation and stay warmer. • Run the motor (and heater) for about 10 minutes per hour, opening one window slightly to let in air. Make sure that snow is not blocking the exhaust pipe—this will reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Above all, be ready to check on family and neighbors who are especially at risk from cold weather hazards: young children, older adults, and the chronically ill. If you have pets, bring them inside. If you cannot bring them inside, provide adequate, warm shelter and unfrozen water to drink. No one can stop the onset of winter. However, if you follow these suggestions, you will be ready for it when it comes. f Be sure to visit CDC’s Winter Weather webpage for more winter weather safety tips. CDC.gov/Features/WinterWeather
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Winter A CTIVIES COMPILED BY MEGIN POTTER
Sledding / Snowshoeing
Share the old-fashioned family fun of sledding with others from the community at MCGREGOR LINKS COUNTRY CLUB. The terrain of snow-covered rolling slopes and the hill at the 17th hole make it a popular sledding spot. Try snowshoeing out on the course in winter, then warm up with hot chocolate in their restaurant. For details about kids’ movie night and other family-friendly events happening this winter, stop in at MCGREGOR LINKS COUNTRY CLUB, 359 Northern Pines Road, Wilton or online at GregorLinks.com
Skiing
Dust off those skis and journey out to one of New York’s 43 ski areas. For a great list of places to ski and their distance from Saratoga Springs go to Alpinesportshop.com/ski-resort-mountain-guide.
Snowmobiling
The beauty and excitement of winter is felt on the more than 10,500 miles in the Statewide Snowmobile Trail System. Traversing 45 counties and maintained by over 200 clubs, the New York State Snowmobile Association (NYSSA), the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) and private landowners, offer a vast network of options. Your backdoor pass to an unforgettable winter experience.
Ice Skating
Groomed ice rinks offer a smooth frozen surface to skate on at a minimal cost, or you can enjoy the artistry of figure skating or the fast-paced sport of ice hockey at the outdoor rinks in SARATOGA SPA STATE PARK. THE BALLSTON AREA RECREATION COMMISSION (BARC) public outdoor ice skating rink will open (weather permitting) weekends beginning in late January 2019. Ice skates for children and adults are free to borrow. Call 518-885-1634 for more information. Get the feeling of being outside with predictable conditions of an indoor rink. Programs, lessons and public skating give everyone a chance to strap on their skates. THE SARATOGA SPRINGS ICE RINK, 30 Weibel Ave. offers open skate for Saratoga Springs residents $3/each, others $5/each, ages 5 and under are free. Skate rentals are $4/pair. For more information, call (518) 583-3462. THE CAPITAL ARENA, 16 Clifton Common Blvd., Clifton Park offers year-round classes and 6 months of public skating. Admission is $5/person, ages 5 and under $3/each. Skate rentals are $3/pair. NOTE: Wilton’s Gavin Park Ice Rink is closed this year for renovations. For more information about public skate, lessons or birthday parties, call 518-383-5440 or go to CapitalArenaNy.com f
For all the information on snowmobile trails, gear, clubs and more go to NySnowMobiler.com
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one more thing to be Grateful for this holiday season WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER
Take a moment
to think about what life would be like without the invention of toilet paper.
Toilet paper was called perforated wrapping paper back then and it has indeed been a great gift!
Stones and clay were used by the ancient Greeks, the Romans used salt water and sponges, and if you have ever resorted to going outdoors, you know all about the risks associated with plucking the wrong leaf.
Founded in 1878, the Albany Perforated Wrapping Company made toilet paper commercially available. According to an ad from 1886, just $3.00 got you a dozen 1000-sheet rolls, a nickel dispensing fixture & delivery anywhere in the U.S.
Colonial Americans used corncobs before newspapers became widely available in the 1700s. Then, the Sears Roebuck catalog was delivered for free in the mail in the 1800s, and became the preferred method for posterior cleaning. It wasn’t until 1857 that New York City entrepreneur Joseph Gayetty invented aloe-infused sheets of hemp paper. The predecessor to the toilet paper we know today came into existence just a mere 30-minutes from Saratoga Springs, thanks to inventor Seth Wheeler, of Albany, with his 1871 patent. (If you have the over-or-under debate in your household, this is the year to put it to rest. His illustration clearly shows the paper coming off the top of the roll.)
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It proudly proclaims that it will save on plumbing bills because of its quick-dissolving nature and states that, “the division into sheets by perforations secures economy unattainable in the Unperforated Roll package”. There is also a recommendation by a doctor, F.M. Johnson M.D, extolling the virtues of toilet paper; “its cheapness and neatness are commendable, and a trial is convincing of its merit.” I think we can all agree… it is most definitely something to be grateful for! f
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Burger’s MarketGarden Farm Nurturing Beauty WRITTEN BY KRISTIN CLEVELAND PHOTOS BY PATTIE GARRETT
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O
n a dozen acres of land, John and Linda Burger and their son Andrew grow produce, herbs and flowers on a farm that has been in their family since 1868. “The original red barn built by my ancestor Jacob Roupp still stands,” says John. Surrounding that historic barn are now over twenty growing-shelters and greenhouses, a temperature-controlled building for short-term storage of tender produce, a flower shed where single stems are assembled into bouquets for markets, and a cozy farm stand that is open to the public seven days a week spring through fall. The Burgers grow over 40 varieties of tomatoes, several types of eggplants and squash, peppers, ground cherries, cucumbers, melons, sweet corn, raspberries, blackberries, sweet potatoes, everbearing strawberries, potted flowers and herbs, and rows and rows of marigolds, sunflowers, amaranth, zinnias, asters, and more. At this time of year John, Linda and Andrew are readying produce and flower bouquets for farmers’ markets in Saratoga Springs and Albany, the Menands wholesale market and the Honest Weight Food Co-op. Even when snow is on the ground, the Burger family is preparing for the next market season. “We start sowing the earliest tomato crop during the last week of January, and also the tiniest lisianthus seeds, which don’t even flower until the end of July or early August,” explains Andrew. “Then each week we plant more, so that by the end of March all of our greenhouses are up and running.” That way the Burgers have potted flowers, herbs and hanging baskets available when the Saratoga Farmers’ Market opens during the first week of May and can bring sweet ripe tomatoes by the end of June. “Then,” says Andrew, “as soon as we can plant in the fields, we start things there so that by July we are transitioning into vegetables and cut flowers and starting our mums for fall.” Throughout the summer the family is busy watering, harvesting, running the farm stand, and heading off to markets. Burger’s MarketGarden was one of the original vendors at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market during its first season in 1978 and has continued to be in Saratoga every summer since. Andrew enjoys it because “Saratoga has a large crowd of regulars, so you see many people you know.” Through the generations, Burger’s MarketGarden Farm has become a place that, with the care of family and community, nurtures creativity and beauty. Andrew grew up going to farmers’ markets with his father and following him around the farm. “I can remember being really little and riding around in the cab of the tractor with my Dad, going down the rows with him while he was planting, just listening to him talk. That’s how I learned farming.” Another thing Andrew learned from his father is a love of music. John has always sung in the church choir, and now Andrew has a Master’s degree in Choral Conducting from Bard College. Andrew spends his time “farming by day, making music by night.” He is the new Artistic Director of the Northern Berkshire Chorale, he is entering his fifth year as Director of Music Ministries at the Niskayuna Reformed Church, and he has sung for many years with Albany Pro Musica. “I always have my music with me!” Andrew says, pointing to a stack of sheet music in the back of his farm truck. John finds his main creative outlet in farming itself. “It’s an artistic expression. If you grow nice plants and you put together a nice package, you’ve accomplished something, a work of art, a way of being connected with the earth, with nature, with your Creator. I find a great deal of satisfaction in it.” f
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winter 2018 | SARATOGA FAMILY 35
Stitching in
Family Time WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS PROVIDED
Weaving together work and family time takes creativity.
The cute crocheted hats, animals, mittens and bags that Jessica Fernandez makes have a unique, fun style that children love – partly because she intertwines ideas from her own seven-year-old son, Carter, into the designs. “It’s great for Carter and I to have that time to do something together. It’s a way to combine working and taking care of the family,” said Fernandez.
Threading the Hook When she was just 8-years-old, Fernandez learned to crochet so she could make her cousin a gift. It was an ambitious first project, a granny square afghan baby blanket. In 2009, she launched Rosebud Johnnies and began selling her “handmade awesomeness” on Facebook, Instagram and at school craft fairs. “Rosebud” was Fernandez’s nickname growing up, given to her by her father, John (who also inspired the second half of her company’s name and its moustache logo).
Links in the Chain Through the years, Fernandez has seen some changes. “Things change, big pompoms were not cool back in the day, now they’re all the rage. Right now, I have a bazillion orders for unicorn hats. There’s a unicorn explosion. I’m really going to have to up my unicorn game this winter,” she laughs. What hasn’t changed is that many of her orders come in person. “When I was at my son’s school, this little girl came up to me
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and said, ‘Excuse me, can you please make matching pumpkin hats for me and my mom?’ It was so cute – and I did. Now they have hats to wear on Halloween to go with the hats they already have for Valentine’s Day and Christmas,” said Fernandez.
Tying the Knot Each of Fernandez’s designs has been given a name – sometimes an unusual one. Carter is very proud of this part of his job and has fun with it, sometimes naming a crocheted bear, “Frog”. He’ll choose the colors of acrylic yarns that Fernandez will use, designs the doll’s clothing, ties together the pompoms, and has even tried his hand at the craft. “He has the attention span of a gnat. He wants to learn but wants instant gratification. He earns $5 from each
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item sold if he’s had a big part in making it. He’s very proud of that!” said Fernandez. He also models the hats in her photographs. This October, Fernandez and her boyfriend, Chris, added a daughter, Clementine to their family. She is already modeling tiny baby bonnets for Rosebud Johnnies. Although she sometimes must work late into the night to complete orders, intertwining crafting and family time is especially important to Fernandez, even to the point of not allowing electronics at the dinner table. “Family time is important. You have to make choices for your family and this is one of our family’s choices. Try it, you’ll like it.” f To see more, visit Rosebud Johnnies on Facebook @RBJhandmadeawesomeness
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Cover Story
ofus
The Possibility WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS BY SUPERSOURCEMEDIA.COM
In a cozy home with tall ceilings, dreams are coming true. “I am the American dream. My life is the American dream of having the best life possible. This is a country that allows for that – to have an amazing career and a beautiful family – and I’m so grateful,” said Dr. Gloria Ethier.
“We nurture our relationship, so it’s long-lasting,” said Louis, who readily helps with the children and around the house.
Gloria and her husband Louis have a lot in common.
In addition to special family outings, they make an effort to spend lazy weekends lounging together and playing at home.
They met while attending Siena College. Friends first, they dated for seven years before getting married in 2012.
Symbiosis In their lives, both have witnessed the struggles common in single-parent households. After his father passed, and being the youngest of six, Louis learned to be a helping hand around the house. In addition, his love for children grew as he took an active role in the lives of his 10 nieces and nephews. Gloria, now a family practitioner at Saratoga Family Practice, was raised by a single mother from Colombia who instilled in her a strong work ethic. “She worked so hard to provide a good life for me,” said Gloria. Creating a symbiotic career, family and social life is central to them both. Gloria and Louis share the same ideal – to provide a nice life for their two young children; their son Sebastian, 4, and their 18-month-old daughter, Jacqueline.
“The challenge is putting work away,” adds Gloria.
Their home (which we recently found out was the cover of the Fall 2017 Simply Saratoga Showcase of Homes issue) has an open floorplan that allows them to be together while watching movies in the living room or getting snacks in the eat-in kitchen. A glass sliding door lets them easily see what’s happening in the backyard.
Interconnectedness The Ethiers’ home life meshes with their social connections. While Gloria was completing medical school and her residency on Long Island, their group of friends were all celebrating engagements, marriages and having babies. Living in their current home for just over a year, they’ve forged friendships here that strengthen their connection to the community. Flamingo Parties are one way that they’ve kept up with their neighbors. A flamingo lawn ornament is put out as a
“My husband is beyond helpful. He does more than his share. He’s just so involved. He’s so good,” said Gloria. At home, the Ethiers have found a balance that brings them happiness, in part because Louis works flexible hours in his job as a Solution Architect for Northwell Health. “We want our children to have the best life they can. We have the same goals for our house and our family, so it doesn’t matter who’s doing what,” said Louis.
At Home When you know someone well enough, you can say it all in a glance. This is how Louis and Gloria communicate.
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welcome invitation to come on over at different houses in the neighborhood. For her 35th birthday, Gloria was surprised when she returned home from work to find friends and neighbors gathered outside waiting for her – complete with champagne and 35 balloons! She tells us of another example; “My son was home sick, and my husband was away for work when my mother-in-law had to leave unexpectedly, and I couldn’t get home in time. One of my neighbors rushed over to be with Sebastian while I finished up with patients and picked up Jacqueline. We have the most amazing neighbors!” Valuing separate girls’ and guys’ nights out, the Ethiers make sure they spend time together as a couple, as well. “We do things together without the kids and without each other. We’ve always been proponents of, ‘let’s just do it’,” said Louis.
Breathe A great example of a neighborhood “Girls' Night” was when they rented a limo, got matching t-shirts and saw Justin Timberlake at the TU Center. And anybody who follows her on Instagram (@SaratogaDoctorMom) will remember the “Dream Night” she and Louis had while seeing the Dave Matthews Band. Both lifelong fans of Dave - probably seeing almost 40 shows of his - they were thrilled when he grabbed Gloria’s phone to snap a selfie. I hear that’s when this woman showed up on Chris’ radar, and why you’re reading about her today : ) She shares with us the best advice she’s ever been given about parenthood… “They tell me how quick this phase goes – blink and its gone – to take it day-by-day and just enjoy it.” So, how does she do it all… “I’m very straightforward. If I don’t want to do something, or don’t have the time, I don’t... There’s some stuff that’s going to have to wait. There’s everyday stress, and there’s moments of guilt, but I try not to let it bother me and I’m very blessed to be able to do that. I just say, ‘It’s o.k. to be upset. Take a moment and just breathe’.” She’s put aside the unreasonable expectations. “I’m not going to make it to every soccer practice, but I’m still a good mom. How can I let any of that get to me? I’m appreciative of everything I have and I’m just trying to enjoy it.” f saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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The
Greatest Gift
WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS PROVIDED
For her 80th birthday, a friend got Helen Homiak Fisher the gift of a lifetime. As a baby, Helen's sister, Mary Ann, carried her to the Salvation Army with five of their brothers and sisters. All but baby Helen were placed in Catholic orphanages. Salvation Army members Charles White and his wife, Elizabeth, cared for Helen, adopting her at age seven. Helen had an enjoyable childhood, growing up in a small town. Helen married Jesse Fisher 61 years ago; they both became Salvation Army captains, and today Helen has four daughters and four grandchildren. It was already a good life, but it was about to become much richer. After all this time, Helen was able to learn about and meet some of the surviving members of her birth family, including her niece, local artist and author Barbara Garro. “They made me feel like Mrs. Rockefeller,” said Helen.
A Link to the Past
Barbara always knew of her aunt Helen, having seen a picture of her as a young child holding her dog, Mitzie. “I have been looking at this picture since I was younger than she was in it,” said Barbara. However, it wasn’t until her cousin, Cindy Gawry, searched the Ancestry.com database that she was able to find and contact her aunt Helen. They discovered that Helen's father had a total of 21 children, 13 of which survived, six independently, six grew up in orphanages and Helen was adopted when the family came upon hard times during the Great Depression. Just two months after discovering her extended family, in February 2014, Barbara went to Fairhaven, Massachusetts to meet Helen for the very first time. Since then, the family has stayed in touch and this August, Helen travelled to Saratoga Springs. She now wears a golden ID bracelet engraved with her birth family name: Homiak. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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It’s never too early...
Better Together
This year, Barbara was given the AncestryDNA test as a gift from her first cousin, Jean Carl. On June 3rd, she got a call. “This is your sister – please call me,” was the simple but life-changing message that Shirley Koontz left that day. “Meeting my Aunt Helen was exciting, but not the life-changing exciting that meeting my sister was,” said Barbara. The two estranged siblings began speaking often after that and just a month later Barbara hired a car to take her down to Chambersburg, Pennsylvania to stay in the home of people she’d never met …and visit with a part of her family she’d never known. “It was so wonderful and these people are so amazing. If you look up “family” in the dictionary, you’d see these people,” said Barbara.
This is Us
Shirley had always wanted to know more about her father and his side of the family. “I had this longing in my heart to be able to touch him and hug him,” she said during a visit to Saratoga Springs this summer. Her mother too, never stopped thinking about Dominic “Nick” Garro. “She always carried a picture of Dominic in her wallet. All these years, my mother was hung up on Dominic,” said Shirley. Barbara is happy to share stories with Shirley about their father, who has since died, but who will continue to live on through their memories of him. “The biggest thrill of my life was finding Barbara,” said Shirley. Both sisters now have a copy of that picture of their father that has always been so treasured and an opportunity to find out about all the other things they have in common, as well. They compare photographs of when they were young and are astounded by how much they looked alike. Both enjoy painting and writing poetry, teach religion and say loving Italian food is in their DNA. Barbara has two grandchildren and Shirley has 10 great-grandchildren (with another due this month). “I’ve got a beautiful full nest. I’m blessed,” she said.
Climbing the Tree of Life
Your family is so much larger than just who lives in your household. Some people trace their genealogy for fun, researching connections to find new people, places and family stories. Others are inspired by their questions, eager to explore a path that can take them on an incredible personal journey of self-discovery.
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Strong Roots
Of all the hobbies that people have in the U.S., genealogy is second only to gardening. Researching genealogy used to mean digging around in dusty, disorganized public record offices, traipsing around cemeteries searching for headstones and squinting at old, intricately handwritten documents. While there is still all of that to delve into, it’s no longer where you have to start. Today, hundreds of ancestry websites are devoted to the millions of people searching for their family trees’ missing branches. Some of these websites are free, while others, such as Ancestry.com, start off with a free 14-day trial and then charge a fee of between $25 -$45/ month depending on your plan.
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There are also millions of people using consumer genetic genealogy testing, also known as DNA testing, to find out about their ancestral heritage.
Message in a Bottle
As it grows in popularity, more and more companies are entering the market and driving down the price of DNA testing for the consumer. What once cost thousands of dollars is on average, now around $100 plus taxes, shipping and handling. There are periodic sales and promotions, including buy-one get-one free discounts, as well. The process is generally the same for each service. Order a kit; collect a DNA sample by rubbing a cotton swab inside your cheek or spitting into a vial and sending it off to the lab. In six (or more) weeks you can explore the online results or on the downloadable smartphone app.
Fueling the Nature vs. Nurture Debate
What information you are given does vary by provider and the databases DO NOT share information, so if your relative used a different test than you did, (or they have not taken any test) they will not show up as a genetic match in yours. By far, the largest database is AncestryDNA with more than 10 million users registered; 23andMe is second, with 5 million, but also offers the added benefit of providing your genetic predisposition to health conditions for an extra fee. MyHeritage DNA is growing rapidly and now has a database of 1.4 million, while GEDmatch, Geno2.0, FamilyTreeDNA and LivingDNA databases all have a million or less registered. In addition to identifying relatives and where they currently or once lived, results can include ethnic composition and ancestral migration patterns. You can learn if your blue eyes came from your mother’s or your father’s side of the family and some even predict how likely you are to own a dog, sneeze when eating chocolate or like instant coffee with amazing accuracy. f
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Second Chances BIG REWARDS
AND
BUILDING A “FOREVER HOME”FAMILY
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WRITTEN BY RALPH VINCENT PHOTOS BY RANDALL PERRY
No two families look exactly alike. Our family has always included very special four-legged members.
S
teven and I began our family journey with Pudgie and Angel. Pudgie was Steven’s Chinese Sharpei with a distinctive, fiercely loyal personality, and Angel was my aptly named Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. After a few years a sweet Cavalier puppy named Gracie joined our family and was the first of many dogs we adopted together. We were a family of five until misfortune struck. Pudgie was diagnosed with lymphoma and not long after passed away, or as many dog lovers like to believe, crossed the “Rainbow Bridge”. This was a sad time for everyone in our home including Angel and Gracie, who for a time seemed to wander about the house searching for their wrinkled buddy. With time our grief softened, and we felt ready to bring another dog into our family. Another Cavalier seemed like the best choice for us, so we began to search for our new family member. Steven and I were careful about from where we would seek a new furry friend. All our pups had been obtained from credentialed breeders who employed best practices. At that time, we had not considered other options such as adopting from a rescue organization, nor were we aware of any groups that rescued Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. That is … not until we met Kimberly Burton and Steve Snyder. We met Steve one morning while taking a walk on Broadway in Saratoga with Angel and Gracie. Steve and his wife were Cavalier parents themselves, and owners of the Pink Paddock. Steve immediately reached down to pet or pups, told us that he and his wife had Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and urged us to stop by their shop and meet Kim. On that fateful day, we learned that Kim and Steve owned two handsome Cavalier boys named Hunter and Dylan who were obtained from a breeder in England. They were about to adopt a third dog but instead of a breeder, their new family member was coming to them from Lucky Star Cavalier Rescue. That afternoon we heard more about “Lucky Star” from Kim and Steve and they encouraged us to consider this organization as we searched for a new dog. That evening we sat before our computer and explored the Lucky Star website, and what we learned engendered us with deep respect for this association. Lucky Star Cavalier Rescue is a nationwide all-volunteer driven organization, devoted to rescuing Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and English Toy Spaniels. Dogs come into Lucky Star’s care due to a variety of circumstances: some are surrendered by families who no longer have the resources to care for them, others because their owners passed away. And still other Cavaliers are rescued after spending their lives in commercial breeding facilities. While in the organization’s care volunteers assess each dog’s needs. Health-related concerns as well as neutering, spaying, and dental care are addressed. Each dog lives in a loving foster home until they are adopted. Lucky Star’s dedicated volunteers strive to find the best possible “forever homes” for the animals in their care. Placing a rescued Cavalier with a suitable family is based on an assessment of the dog’s individual needs as well as a prospective owner’s ability to properly care for them. A specific process is followed to determine a potential adoptee’s suitability.
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After completing and submitting the detailed application, it was reviewed and then followed by a telephone interview with a Lucky Star representative. A reference from our Veterinarian was required as well. After these steps were completed two Lucky Star volunteers – Kim and Steve - inspected our home to ensure we could provide a safe, loving, and comfortable environment for a rescued dog. After completing this process Steven and I were happy to learn we were approved. Lucky Star sent us pictures and information on Cavaliers thought to be a good match for our family. We were moved by an image of two dogs named Iris and Blythe in particular. Iris had a tri-color coat of black and white with tan markings and was estimated to be about two years old. Blythe was thought to be about six years old and possessed what is known in Cavalier “speak” as a “Blenheim” coat of feathery red and white fur. These girls had been rescued together from a breeding facility and were being cared for in the same foster home. We were encouraged to adopt both Iris and Blythe but were uncertain of our ability to care for -what would then be- a total of four dogs. Nevertheless, we wanted to give one of these beautiful girls a home, and after considerable thought decided to adopt Iris. Soon after, Steven and I met Iris and her foster mom Mary. Iris was timid but seemed to enjoy being held and cuddled. We fell in love with this adorable little girl. A week later we picked her up and Iris became the first rescued dog to find her “forever home” with us. Our new addition took no time settling into her forever home, and she bonded quickly with Angel and Gracie. It was heartening to see Iris enjoy her food, snuggle with her new siblings, and sleep so soundly she snored. Although I felt fortunate that Iris joined our family, I could not forget her little buddy Blythe. I thought about how they had come to rely on each other before and after they were rescued. Wouldn’t
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it be wonderful if they could enjoy their new lives together? I knew Blythe belonged with us but had to persuade Steven of this as well. So, I mentioned her name frequently and posed questions to get my point across - how was Blythe doing without Iris? Did Blythe miss Iris? Did Iris miss Blythe? In addition to my verbal tactics I placed Blythe’s picture in strategic locations around our house. He would find Blythe staring at him from a table in the family room, the kitchen counter, even next to the bathroom sink. Before long I won Steven over and Blythe became the second rescued dog to find her “forever home” with us. Iris and Blythe were together again and this time for good. When the girls first saw each other, their joy was apparent. With tails wagging Iris
lead Blythe from room to room as if showing her around their new home. Later we found them snuggled up together sound asleep as they had likely done many times before. The pups remained inseparable until Blythe crossed over the “Rainbow Bridge” six years later. Steven and I know that despite all we do to protect our pets we cannot shield them from the passage of time. It is an inevitable consequence that our dogs’ lives will end, and the time we have with them never seems long enough. Over the years we have said goodbye to Angel, Gracie, Frannie, and more recently Iris. These times are never easy for us, but there is comfort in knowing we gave each dog the best life possible. At present we are the proud “Cav Dads” of three amazing dogs, all
adopted from Lucky Star Cavalier Rescue. These sweet girls bring so much joy into our lives. Rosie our eldest, is an affectionate and very intelligent pooch with a striking solid red coat. She is a resilient little dog, who despite some health challenges is still going strong. Caralee is the youngest member of our four-legged family. She is a very petite and pretty girl with huge expressive brown eyes. She loves to snuggle, can play fetch like a champ, and has an affinity for stealing socks. One of the most rewarding aspects of life with a rescued dog is seeing them relax and embrace their new lives. Such is the case with Jenny who joined us more recently. At the outset Jenny was very, very timid. Having a secure loving home and two Cavalier sisters to help her along, she has quickly gained confidence and overcome some of her fears. Every day this precious girl becomes more engaged in her new life. She has learned to enjoy interacting with people and is usually first in line to greet our guests. Caring for multiple dogs may not be for everyone but it works well for us. We manage to stay organized by adhering to an established routine which includes set feeding and bed times. Our pups make trips outside to their special “potty” area every two hours while we are awake – this routine is especially helpful to facilitate house training. In our home, the comfort and safety of our dogs is priority one. Removable pet gates keep the dogs from areas in our open concept home where they might get into trouble. In the kitchen, kennels provide each dog with a retreat. A fenced in yard helps keep our girls safe and is a must have for Cavaliers. Our dog “potty” area is covered with pea-gravel that keeps their paws free of mud and provides for good drainage and easy cleanup. Steven and I have found that giving a dog a second chance can be one of life’s most rewarding experiences. As time goes on we will continue to adopt rescued Cavaliers and cannot imagine life without our four-legged family. We often wonder… who rescued who? f saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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Family. Friends. Love. A look at life THROUGH THE EYES OF (A NOW) 27 YEAR OLD
WRITTEN BY LORI MAHAN PHOTOS PROVIDED
I recently turned twenty-seven and I thought back to ten years ago, 17 years old. What would I have told myself? Would I have even believed future-me?
I decided I would write myself a letter to my former self. Dear Lori, Actually, you go by Lor now. It’s your new nickname and you kind of really dig it. You’re in your senior year of high school and you’re homeschooled, something you’re not super fond of because it limits your social life. You live in California and consider yourself a Valley Girl, even though you really aren’t. There’s this boy, he’s a year younger than you, and he seems kind of irrelevant now, but trust me, later on he plays a big role. All of these things are currently happening to you and you’re right in the thick of it. They seem overwhelming, and they are. College. Boys. Graduation. Ten years later, a lot has changed. It was all scary and girl, I do not blame you for struggling through some of it. I need you to try and coast through some of this struggle, because it is going to make you stronger. I guarantee it. You’re going to cry and yell and laugh and love and it is all going to make you who you are today, ten years later.
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Today, at 27, your entire world is changing in the blink of an eye. You suddenly have new dreams and new visions of your future and what it’s going to be like. At 17, you thought that by now you would be married to someone like Ryan Gosling and would be walking the red carpets at movie premieres and winning awards for your acting. Thank God for small favors. Lor, everything truly does happen for a reason, I promise you that. Because of the aforementioned boy above, you applied to your dream college and got in, spending four amazing years growing in your talent and making friends that would last a lifetime. One of them now works across the newsroom from you. When you meet her in freshmen year during a beginners’ ballet class, it’s okay to trust her. She really is that kind and pure of heart, it isn’t a facade. There really are people like her in the world. And ten years from now, when your life is completely changing, and you have no control over it, she’s going to be one of the biggest support systems you’ll have, and she is still going to be just as kind. After college, you’ll find yourself on those movie sets that you dreamed of running one day. You’ll be a
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second assistant director on an independent film (that three years later, is still in postproduction) and you will have the time of your life. It doesn’t sound appealing now but working from 8 p.m. to 9 a.m. on an overnight shoot is one of the best kinds of work shifts. Heads up, nothing normal happens after 2 a.m. You’ll get fired one day, too, and that will be a huge ego blow. You’ll take on a job after that film that you’ve never done before, but you’re hungry for more experience. And after three months, you will learn what “eliminating your position” means. You will see what it’s like to cry into a Bloody Mary at 11 a.m. on a Tuesday because you moved all the way to New Orleans for this job and you never expected this outcome. You will also learn, right before that, what it’s like to grieve for someone who passes way too young. 2016 will be a very tough year for you, but there will be a funny kind of silver lining. In the fall of that year, you’ll meet someone that will change your life. That relationship will definitely not always be fun or easy or even one that you want, but trust me when I say, it will be life changing. And then suddenly, it’s the morning of your 27th birthday and you’re spending it in a doctor’s office looking at a screen and seeing your entire future in front of you, and believe me, you will never feel more blessed. A lot can happen in a decade. Enjoy every second of your life. Love, Lor PS - try going blonde, you’re really going to like it. f
Lori and Marissa at the Wine & Food Festival
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Fromto theCyberspace Big Screen WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS BY DAVE BIGLER PHOTOS & FILMS
This summer, the 6th graders at Maple Avenue Middle School had the opportunity to make a video with the production team of Dave Bigler Photos & Film
Good Direction Computer Science and App Design teacher Daniel Todd reached out to Saratoga’s Bigler Studio for some professional advice on how his students could make a quality cyberbullying video using the school’s tablets and CloudBooks. “I was hoping he could give us some tips on how to make the best video possible with these devices and he took it a step further,” said Todd.
To be a video star it takes more than a phone, it’s a production.
Using an IPhone 6, the Bigler team made a video for the students. They demonstrated filming techniques and announced they’d be selecting one student group video submission to be produced professionally. “I definitely have a strong passion for kid’s excitement to do this and for their love of video. I know how cool it would’ve been for me to have the
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chance to make a professional video when I was that age – I would’ve gone nuts, and I wanted them to be able to have that experience,” said Bigler.
3, 2, 1. Action! After weeks of work, a full day spent writing the script, building the storyboard and making sure all the permission slips were signed, it was time to shoot the video. “We wanted to produce it, not change it,” said Bigler. Using essentially the same scenes and storyline from the original student film, the Bigler Studio team and the students spent three hours during the busy school day filming. “The story is absolutely everything. It creates the emotion and the connection the viewer has with it, so they can’t not tell everyone else about it,” he said.
#sTopcyberbullying All the hard work that went into creating this 2 ½ minute PSA was about more than learning video editing techniques, it was to share the story of how cyberbullying has unsettling effects in the real world. “To me, the message came first. We’ll definitely do something with digital citizenship again to address the need to be safe, respectful and responsible on the internet,” said Todd. In addition to being available online, the final video played in all of the school’s 6th grade classrooms, for one week at the Saratoga and Wilton Hoyt’s Cinemas, on radio and television news, and has been mentioned in numerous print publications. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
“These are kids in 6th grade who go to the movies and love the movies, so to be on the big screen - that’s huge, absolutely huge,” said Bigler. There’s a simple call to action at the end of the video: #StopCyberBullying. “We’re bringing light to the issue and becoming more aware of it. You can’t avoid it,” said Laura Simiele, Bigler Studio’s General Manager. But hopefully, one day that will change. Even with the scope of projects that Bigler Studios completes, which includes everything from wedding videos, to corporate commercials and filming organizational conferences, they want to continue to work with schools in the future. “We’d love to do it again,” said Bigler. f
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Back Row (left to right):Daniel Todd (teacher), Aidan Cole, Jordyn Galvin, Sophie O'Donnell, Rachel Haarman, Nick Goliber, Elaina Jacob, Aidan Murphy, Christian Mello, Jake Ritz (Bigler Studios), Jerel Lane (Bigler Studios) Middle Row (left to right): Laura Simiele (Bigler Studios), Annie Tolan, Mazie Neville, Anna Krotow, James England, Jacob Pritchard, Jack Robinson Front Row (kneeling - left to right): Dave Bigler (Bigler Studios), Mateo Kelly, Myles Bufkins, Christian Burger, Tim Horst (teacher) Laying down in the front: Gus Gordon
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The Littlest Angels Teach Us THE BIGGEST LESSONS
“Our job is not to toughen our children up to face a cruel and heartless world. Our job is to raise children who will make the world a little less cruel and heartless.” ~ L.R.Knost WRITTEN AND PHOTGRAPHED BY THERESA ST. JOHN
J
ustin is a blond-haired seven-year-old with bright blue eyes and a winning smile. I meet him for the first time at Panera Bread, right here in town on route 50. He’s with his mom, dad, and 10-year-old sister, Sophia.
It’s heartwarming whenever I have the opportunity to interact with kids performing acts of kindness when no one is watching. I’ve always believed that children have the purest hearts and this brother and sister team does, for sure. I heard about Justin and Sophia from a close friend. Before she’d finished her first few sentences, I knew I had to meet the pair. I wanted to hear their story – in the words of a child.
We buy our drinks and grab a table in the corner. “So,” I begin. And we’re off. “It started at Wal-Mart,” Justin tells me in a matter-offact voice. “I noticed this man wandering around. He was dressed okay but looked sad.” Justin blows on his cocoa and takes a sip. “I asked my mom what was wrong with him and she said he was homeless. I had not seen a homeless person before. I wasn’t even sure what that meant.” I glance over at his mom, dad, and sister. No one says a word. “I have a house-doesn’t everybody? And if they don’t, how come?” Justin proceeds to tell me that the encounter upset him. Once they were in the store, marking items off of their shopping list, he asked his mother if they could buy the man a piece of fruit and a bottle of water. She said yes. The man was still outside Wal-Mart and Justin walked right up to him. “I hope this helps.” He said. A few days later, Justin’s mom walked into the kitchen, only to see 12 white lunch bags lined up on the counter. She watched in amazement as he worked tirelessly, concentrating on the job at hand. A dozen oranges, bottles of water, granola bars, and peanut butter with jelly sandwiches went into those bags. “What are you doing?” She asked. “I’m making lunch for some people who won’t eat otherwise. You need to help me deliver them, mom.”
Ri-
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Sophia piped up then, offering to go along and help. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
The three jumped in the car and drove downtown. Justin’s mom, Tina, stops when he tells her to. The three step out of the car, but Tina stays a few steps behind the kids. “Hello,” Sophia says to one woman, holding out a bag. “We brought you lunch.” The woman looks at her, then Justin, then Tina. Her eyes are questioning. She says nothing at first, perhaps from surprise. Then, “Oh my goodness, thank you so much!” Justin tells her he needs her help. “Do you know anyone else who might be hungry? Or homeless? Can you help us find them?” The woman’s eyes fill up. “Oh, child, we’re everywhere.” Inside Panera Bread my own eyes are filled with tears, moved by what I’ve just heard from two youngsters. I don’t even know what to say to them. Their hearts are huge, so much bigger than mine. And kind. “Why?” I choke out the words. “Why did you two feel the need to do this?” Sophia smirks at Justin. Then they hug, right in the middle of the restaurant. Justin shrugs his seven-year-old shoulders. “We get to eat every single night.” He tells me. “But, they’re strangers,” I say. “Not anymore.” That’s our cue to leave. The family is headed to Albany to help the city’s ‘Street Soldiers’ serve dinners, then hand out comforters to people in need. “I feel good inside,” Justin tells me as we walk to our cars. “I think we’re going to be doing things like this for a long, long time.” I close the door to my Kia and put my head down on the steering wheel for a moment. “I feel good inside, too, Justin. Thank you.” f
Take a class as a family and practice your skills
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winter 2018 | SARATOGA FAMILY 53
Feeding Dreams
WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS PROVIDED
Schoenborn is a young girl that can make E llagrown men cry.
She comes into their lives at a time when they are dealing with the stress of being at the brittle edge of survival. Offering food, paid for with bottle returns, this 10-year-old momentarily bridges the gap for these men between a place of despair and one of hope. Her act of caring and kindness relieves a deep ache within them and they burst into tears. “Those guys in Saratoga, they are hardcore homeless. The last time we were there, two guys were crying their eyes out,” said Ella’s father, Gus Schoenborn.
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A Summer Project
“What are we going to do? There’s nothing to do!” Gus remembers his daughter saying in June. “I said, ‘Find a meaningful project – something that counts’,” recalls Gus. A common complaint of many schoolchildren, Ella came up with an uncommon solution. While travelling from their home in Coxsackie to her school in Albany, Ella saw the homeless sleeping on the street. “There’s people out there that have had everything
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change and they’re living on the street. They don’t have anything sometimes,” said Ella. Already familiar with a group called Street Soldiers in Albany that hands out food and supplies to the needy, Ella asked if she could help. After turning in two garbage cans full of bottles for funds to buy ingredients, she made eight sandwiches to hand out. Word of what Ella did started to spread and friends began donating their redeemable bottles and cans. Project Ella was born.
Community Coming Together
Project Ella’s network of supporters include the Leal family (owners of a local Dunkin Donuts franchise), who donated enough ham and cheese to make 300 sandwiches. The Bethel AME Church in Coxsackie took up a collection and Project Ella fed 135 people at an all-you-can-eat spaghetti and meatball dinner. “There’s a very good feeling that comes with knowing you’re helping people,” said Gus. Distributing food to Greene, Albany, Rensselear and Saratoga county residents in need, as the summer progressed, Project Ella’s impact grew. “In each place we went, we started recognizing people. Over time, we became very friendly,” said Gus. This familiarity inspired Project Ella to find additional ways to help. They delivered groceries and clothing to a Waterveliet resident who couldn’t afford to take the bus and get supplies for her family of four. “She started crying and she was overwhelmed. We said, ‘We just want to help – that’s it’,” said Gus.
Resourcefulness
“Ella and I can have a major impact for $12-15/week. We know what to buy and where to buy it. When you’re using bottles and cans to fund it, you have to pay attention,” said Gus. By October, they’d recycled more than 32,000 redeemable containers and served more than 3,500 dinners. “You can’t dream if you’re hungry,” is the motto of Project Ella and now Ella has a new dream; to open a free shelter and café for those in need. f To donate and find out more, find Project Ella on Facebook @projectella.
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Hope Heals WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS PROVIDED
E
ven from a threatened state of existence, it’s possible to overcome the odds.
Sea turtles are a great example of this; for 150 million years they’ve faced challenges from predators, the environment and pollution, yet, miraculously, they’ve survived. For much of her life, Jamie Heath has felt like a turtle. Facing enormous difficulties along her path, she still made it into the ocean for a swim.
One Tough Hatchling
At just 7-years-old, Jamie had her first stroke. Blood was not flowing correctly to her brain and at 12-years-old Jamie had another stroke that caused paralysis in the right side of her body. After more than a month in the hospital and hundreds of hours of rehabilitation therapy, she was able to walk again but needed a cane and a leg brace. She moved like a turtle and wasn’t happy about it. Her spunky attitude was replaced with feelings of depression. Her mother, Joanne Leclerc nicknamed her “Granny Grunt”. Even her pet turtle, “Bob”, couldn’t provide relief from a morose cycle of doctor appointments, pressures from school and isolation from friends. “Sickness can make you feel alone, like you’re the only one dealing with this,” said Jamie Hathaway, CEO of Vermont Make-A-Wish.
Hope is more than just a feel-good emotion, it’s a motivating force. It instills confidence, courage and optimism. From Stranded to Floating Freely
In the summer of 2014, Leclerc nominated Jamie for a wish to be granted by Vermont Make-A-Wish and something miraculous started happening. Hope entered into Jamie’s life. “It allowed me to heal physically, heal mentally and heal emotionally,” said Jamie. Hope is more than just a feel-good emotion, it’s a motivating force. It instills confidence, courage and optimism. “A lot of Wish kids are undergoing chemotherapy and other things that they don’t necessarily have the tools to deal with and don’t have control over. Having a wish granted puts control back into their hands and they can look forward to that,” said Hathaway. The question now was – what would Jamie wish for? “Do something in your wildest dreams – dream big!” says Jamie to other seriously ill children.
Back & Snappy
high school and has gotten her sassy attitude back. “My mom calls me “Punk” now. I always made smart remarks before and now I do again because part of my feeling is that I’m back to normal,” said Jamie. Jamie also became an ambassador for Vermont Make-A-Wish, sharing her story at events, on television and radio shows. “She’s stared down a lot of scary things already, so staring down a room of a thousand people wasn’t so bad,” said Hathaway. This year, Jamie’s story of how Make-A-Wish gave her hope helping her to heal, was made into a storybook; “Wishes Are Medicine”. On her book tour, she met a child struggling with a brain tumor and knew that there were so many people this book could help, she said. “Make-A-Wish reminds you of the network of support around you and that’s powerful medicine,” said Hathaway. f Now in its second printing, “Wishes Are Medicine” is available by going online to Vermont.wish.org
In April 2015, Jamie went to Hawaii to swim with the sea turtles. Now, she’s taking college courses while still in
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Paying it
Forward
Maurice Greene ~ A Young Coach making a difference
B
WRITTEN AND PHOTGRAPHED BY THERESA ST. JOHN
orn and raised in Brooklyn New York, Maurice lived in the city for 19 years before relocating to Massachusetts, where he lived from 2008-2015. During that time, he attended Fitchburg State college and played basketball. “I’ve always loved basketball. Believe it or not, I began playing when I was five. Even though I’ve tried my hand at other sports over the years, basketball always won out. To me, it’s the most exciting sport out there.” After Fitchburg State, Maurice played pro for two years, at the urging of his coach and mentor Chris Noyes. The first year (2014-2015) found him in Niagara, on a team called Western New York Thundersnow. And during the 2015-2016 season, he was part of the Chautauqua Hurricane pro team, based in Dunkirk, New York. “Coach Noyes took me under his wing when I was in my early 20’s. He has the same passion I have for basketball and is the nicest guy you could ever want to meet. He believed in me from day one, always telling me I had the talent to go far in the game.”
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While Maurice attended Fitchburg State, he noticed many youngsters who seemed to have potential when it came to playing sports but weren’t given a fair shot. They went unnoticed. Even though he had several more opportunities to play pro basketball himself, Maurice decided to begin training and mentoring the students instead. They were in 7th grade when he took them under his wing, just as Chris Noyes had done with him. Now they’re shining stars on the court in high school and still stay in touch. And even when he was playing pro in Dunkirk, Maurice stayed busy training and coaching kids who hadn’t made the high school basketball team. They looked up to him and flourished. “Growing up was tough on the streets of Brooklyn. I watched too many good kids lose their way, sometimes their life, to drugs and gangs. I often wonder what might have happened if there’d been a Coach Noyes for them. Maybe their lives would have turned out differently. I want to make an impact myself. I want to try and keep kids on a better path in life. They need to know they can go as far as they want to go – be whatever they want to be – on and off the basketball courts.” winter 2018 | SARATOGA FAMILY 57
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Maurice Greene has formed an organization/ business ‘TeamMoGreene’ with Candy Nalewakek-president and marketer of the company, and Kalill Bostick, Vice president of the same. And he’s formed a basketball team as well, The Spa Warriors, comprised of eight girls – all bright, articulate and good students – from areas like Ballston Spa, Saratoga, and Schuylerville. Come Spring, Maurice says they may change the name to TMG Warriors. “These young ladies want to succeed,” Maurice tells me. “They listen and are open to taking direction. I’m impressed with how much they’ve learned – how much they’ve improved during these last few months of coaching. I want to be sure they get the best opportunities, connect with the right people while giving back to the community themselves.” Right now, the team is busy working on a fundraiser. Maurice tells me about a young teenage boy in their class whose outgrown his wheelchair and needs a new one. TeamMo is holding a bake sale, with items the girls bake themselves, to raise enough money to buy him one. Parents are very supportive of Maurice and the team he’s building. They see the same potential in their daughters as Coach Greene does. They tell me they like his approach to training, taking the girls aside when they need to work on something, dealing with them one-on-one to help make them better at the game. All of the parents agree the team’s grown a great deal this season and say they look forward to watching them become contenders in the future. Speaking of the girls, they have a lot to say about playing on The Spa Warriors team. Olivia Scaccia smiles when she tells me “I’m super excited to be working with Coach Greene. I feel like he’s given us a fresh start. He makes the game fun besides.” Juliana Cilione’s eyes light up as she pipes in. “I mean, he actually takes the time to pull us aside from the others to explain what’s wrong. Then he helps correct our form.” Abby Teitsch’s laughter bubbles over. “Water breaks. We need them, and we get them. Coach Greene understands how important they are. He’s very organized. We’re allowed downtime. Then we get right back to work. He’s taught us to listen.” I would stay to gather comments from the other players, but they’re out on the court, taking direction from Coach Mo. Questions will have to wait. f For more information: MoGreene3522@gmail.com or (978) 751-2671, #TeamMoGreene saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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Off-Season … ON THE TRAIL T
WRITTEN BY JOHN KETTLEWELL, SARATOGA PLAN PHOTOS PROVIDED
THINGS TO DO
ravel guides will give you a lot of suggestions for what to do in the peak season when you’ll have the best weather and be able to enjoy all the classic activities and sites. However, there can be wonderful experiences to be found in the Saratoga area when exploring out of season as well.
Saratoga PLAN is all about preserving land and nature, and those protected areas are there all year-round for you to explore. Maybe you hiked the Bog Meadow Trail during the summer and enjoyed walking down a green corridor with the trees arching overhead providing cool shade. A walk down the trail now can be a very different experience. The leaves have fallen, opening up the views to distant beaver lodges. Overhead you can see swooping hawks, and possibly an eagle if you watch patiently. Chances are good you might have the trail all to yourself, with peace and quiet all around.
PLAN. They scout out and maintain the trails, and they regularly patrol to make sure your experience will be pleasant and safe. Enjoying the off season means dressing for variable weather, which can be almost anything in Saratoga! Here are a few off-season tips: • Wear layers so you can adjust your temperature to suit. • A warm hat and gloves are easy to take on and off to adjust to temperature changes. • Carry a lightweight, waterproof shell no matter how great the weather looks—things can change quickly!
There’s no bad weather, just bad clothing…
Trips to larger nature areas, like the 606-acre Hennig Preserve, located just outside the Adirondack Park in the Town of Providence, can be especially beautiful in the off season. The lack of crowds and the lack of leaves means it’s a great time to observe wildlife and birds you might not normally spot. Once the snow flies, the ten miles of Hennig trails are ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, and with no snowmobiles allowed! The conservation easement on the property and on an adjacent 140 acres prevents all activities other than passive recreational uses. A group of dedicated volunteers steward the Hennig Preserve and other natural areas for
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•
Be sure to bring sunscreen and sunglasses on snowy days when reflections can cause nasty burns.
When you’re yearning to get out but not in the mood for a wilderness trek head over to the Hudson River and the Saratoga Siege Trail. The trail is a flat, half-mile walk along Fish Creek in the area where the Battle of Saratoga was fought in 1777. You can just picture the American soldiers pursuing the British before their surrender in October. Nature study, walking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are allowed.
Learn more about the Bog Meadow Trail, the Hennig Preserve, the Siege Trail, and many other year-round outdoor opportunities on Saratoga PLAN’s website. Just click on Explore to start your of- season journey. f John Kettlewell is the Constituent Engagement Director for Saratoga PLAN. Saratoga PLAN is a nonprofit land trust that preserves the rural character, natural habitats and scenic beauty of Saratoga County so that these irreplaceable assets are accessible to all and survive for future generations.
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THE ULTIMATE HOLIDAY GIFT FOR YOUR FAMLIY:
A VACATION!!
Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica Hanging Bridges Tour
Beaches Turks and Caicos
Alaska
WRITTEN BY ANNE GORDON, OWNER AND LEISURE TRAVEL SPECIALIST, LIVE LIFE TRAVEL, LLC, AFFILIATE OF TRAVEL EDGE, VIRTUOSO MEMBER
I
The Royal Livingstone Resort, Zambia
Uncle Earl, Four Seasons Hualalai
LIVE LIFE TRAVEL’S TOP PICKS FOR FAMILY TRAVEL: • BEACHES TURKS AND CAICOS – To us, this is comparable to what Disney World is to the rest of American children (but way better!); Contact us to receive your $250 spa credit
t may be cliché, but also very true, the best gift that you can give your family (especially your children) is the gift of time. And what better way than traveling the world as a family.
4 Tips for Planning Any Type of Family Travel: 1) PLAN AHEAD - It’s never too early to start planning Tip: Airfare goes on sale 11 months in advance; We like the Hopper APP to track airfare prices 2) DON’T WAIT – Start them young; they grow up way too fast 3) ENGAGE – Let them be part of the decision; Inclusive family decisions always make every trip much more successful. 4) EDUCATE – Don’t tell the kids, but traveling the world is a totally super fun way to learn all of that “stuff” that they teach you in school. Tip: The SSCD kids learn about Ancient Rome, Greece, China, India and Egypt in the 6th Grade, we recommend taking them to these magnificent destinations after the 6th Grade.
Tip: We recommend booking 1-2 years in advance for this property (for high season weeks); there are 2 other Beaches located in Jamaica (Negril and Ocho Rios); we love them all • ITALY – Ancient Rome is really something spectacular, especially after learning about it in 6th grade, we think that Italy is a trip that the entire family can enjoy; We also highly suggest heading down to Sicily, a hidden gem • AFRICAN SAFARI – A must for every family; truly a once in a lifetime experience. We recommend the Cape Town – Sabi Sands – Victoria Falls combo if you want to do it right. • HAWAII – A favorite destination for families over the Holiday Break and for good reason! We love the Grand Wailea in Maui and The Four Seasons Hualalai on The Big Island. Experience two very different landscapes as to what Hawaii has to offer • ALASKA – Experience nature up close and personal with Lindblad Expeditions on the National Geographic expedition ships that have custom programs just for kids • FOUR SEASONS RESORTS – In general, you just cannot go wrong, and we love them. Our top family choices are Nevis, Costa Rica, Anguilla, Chiang Mai and Langkawi. f
OUR #1 FAMILY TRAVEL RECOMMENDATION: GLOBAL CITIZENS WANTED
• ME to WE – A new travel partner to our Virtuoso family, this company is one of our very favorites. We would encourage you all to please check out their video on our Facebook and Instagram pages. If you want to make a difference in the world, if you want to make an impact with your children, if you want to create lifelong memories and a feeling that will never fade away, then ME to WE is what you are looking for. Travel itineraries currently include Ecuador, Kenya and India. Please contact us to find out more at: anne@livelifetravel.world Whatever you do parents, please do not become or stay part of this statistic: 52% of Americans do not take all their PAID vacation time. Vacations are healthy, not only for you physically and mentally, but emotionally for your family, especially for those kids. Life is short, make the most of it. #livelifetravelnow, www.LiveLifeTravel.world, anne@livelifetravel.world, 518-966-2663 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
winter 2018 | SARATOGA FAMILY 61
When you choose to
TRAVEL SOUTH OF IT (Saratoga, that is) t ry...
EMERSON R E S O R T & S PA WRITTEN AND PHOTGRAPHED BY THERESA ST. JOHN
S
ometimes, people need to get away from the everyday business of living. Not because we don’t love where we live– we’re lucky to call Saratoga home! A day trip or overnight stay somewhere different is refreshing and can often act as a reset button just what the good Doctor ordered! Emerson Resort and Spa is less than two hours away by car, a straight shot down 87 South and a few miles further on 28 West. It’s a haven for couples, families, pet-lovers and even for solitary travelers. You arrive relaxed from the leisurely drive through the mountains, where any season shows off the peaceful beauty of the Catskill’s natural landscape. The Inn is a contemporary structure offering 26 ultra-comfy, spacious rooms – so choose one that’s perfect for you. Select from a king, two queen-bed accommodations, or a duplex suite that has an upstairs bedroom and a 2nd bath. Fireplaces? Air-jetted soaking tubs? Oh, yes, these rooms have them! Large, oversized windows let Mother Nature in and a private deck off of the living area invites you to enjoy the tranquil views of Mt. Tremper beyond. The Esopus Creek runs behind the resort, where Adirondack chairs circle open fire pits, nature trails lead visitors through the woods along the way, over-sized chess sets are ready for a new game, and the skies overhead are a midnight pallet for the shooting stars and constellations you’re sure to see. Another alternative offered here for your relaxing stay is the lodge. It offers 27 rooms in a variety of styles. Choose from a multi-room suite that caters to large families, girlfriend getaways, even wedding parties. Even the most basic room is
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designed to welcome guests into the laid-back feel of a log cabin tucked into the maple and pine trees around the property. If you want to experience something extra-special, a visit to the spa is a must! It feels surreal, stepping through the ornately carved 17th century Rajasthani Palace Gates, into the rooms beyond. With ten treatment rooms, a full-service nail salon and tranquil, quiet spots throughout, you’re bound to pass back through the same gates… a different person. Even walking through the halls is peaceful. The poet, Ralph Waldo Emerson loved nature and excerpts of his musings adorn the walls, reminding us to slow down and draw near to the earth. One of my favorites hangs over the reception desk. It’s the first thing you see. “Adopt the pace of nature.” Besides his famous, much-read words, stunning original works from local artists brighten up the entire area as well. Dinner is in a charming restaurant, the Woodnotes Grille. Outside on the porch, Adirondack rocking chairs invite guests to sit if there’s a wait, and to relax even if there’s not. There are a few different rooms inside the establishment and a cozy bar for a drink afterward. Sourced locally and inspired by the farmto-table bounty of the Catskills and the Hudson Valley, the Woodnotes Grille’s menu is tempting… from soups to salads, main entrees to dessert. It’s also open for breakfast.
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Honestly, they’ve thought of everything! If the weather’s less than perfect, you don’t even need to leave the building. Follow one long hallway, with the sound of loose bricks underfoot. You can spend hours meandering through one unique shop after another. Now, reach into your pocket and take out a few dollars. A visit to the world’s largest kaleidoscope (yes, it’s in the Guinness World Book of Records!) is a have-to, must-do, can’t-miss event. It’s actually in a 60-foot tall silo. You can stand, leaning against padded boards that tilt slightly, or you can lie on the floor and gaze upwards. Choose from three different pulsating shows that last ten minutes. The visuals are high overhead and make it seem as if you’re turning the kaleidoscope yourself. Even though the Emerson Resort and Spa feels like a world away …it’s just a few hours - what are you waiting for? f
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al rriv A DUE MARCH 8 w Ne
Look for Saratoga TODAY's
Getting Ready for Baby TH
Expecting a bundle of joy anytime soon? Not sure where to start for creating the nursery of your dreams? Want a seamless outline while you rest those feet and eat some ice cream?
1.
WELL, SIT BACK AND ENJOY THIS HOW-TO WE PUT TOGETHER FOR YOU. Pick a statement piece (wallpaper, rug, light fixture) that you will build everything around. This will also help you decide the theme and feel of the room. In Clementine’s nursery, we started with that beautiful wallpaper from Anthropologie. Everything else in the room is muted to really let the star steal the show. This wallpaper determined that our theme was going to be feminine and classic.
2.
Decide on wall color. Choose a neutral wall
color and get that color with a matte finish in its lowest pigment. Colors always look brighter than they do on the samples.
3.
Pick bright, light colored, furniture (even if
you’re having a boy). There’s nothing more depressing than dark wood in a nursery. Save it for the man cave, people. This is the sanctuary of your precious sweet angel baby! Also, don’t feel the need to buy a set for a crib, dresser and side table. Just make sure they either match (color, material, look) or distinctively contrast.
4.
Pick out accessories (hardware, light fixture, pillows, throws, books, wall art, etc.) This is a really great time to get fun with your accessories and make it your own. Just be sure to go back to your statement piece and theme of the nursery. Are you looking to create a modern nursery? Boho? Feminine? Classic? Eclectic? Try avoiding big box stores for accessories and find more unique pieces on places like Etsy, in Goodwill or antique stores. Check out this beautiful painting commissioned by a local artist (see right). f
Looking for more design tips and tricks for your home? Follow Ettie on Instagram @ettieandco, check out her website ettieandco.com and meet her on our contributors page.
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