Wilmington Parent December 2017 by Seaside Media

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Celebrate the Holidays! GIFTS FOR SENSORY KIDS I CONNECTION ARTS SHOPPING GUIDE I CHRISTMAS INTERNATIONAL I CONTROL YOUR JOY HEALTHY HOLIDAY SPICES I GO GREEN RESOLUTIONS

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IN THIS ISSUE Angela Kelly

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CHILDCARE LISTING GUIDE

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PRODUCT REVIEW

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Wilmington Parent is published 12 times a year. Distribution of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication's standards. All contents of Wilmington Parent are protected under copyright. Reproduction of any content requires permission of the publisher. All rights reserved.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

hope all our families are enjoying this holiday season. Wilmington is buzzing with events for families all over town. Pin our calendar to your bulletin board and check the online calendar every day. There are so many activities to help you and your family soak up the lights, sounds, and smells of this beautiful time. This Holiday issue, we offer many ideas to travel with your family, or stay at home and enjoy a Christmas Around the World from the comfort of your home. From simple gifts and reminders about how to focus on love and joy, to a Gift Guide with tips on memorable giving, we hope that this month’s issue will give you a few tools to ease the stress of this busy season.

Thanks for voting us Family Favorite Pediatric Dentist again this year! 2606 Iron Gate Dr. Suite 200,Wilmington, NC

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My kids are getting older, and I was worried this year would not be as much fun. Are my memory making times coming to an end? Did I succeed in creating enough memorable moments when they were younger? This past week, I received a call from my oldest son in Texas who was invited to his girlfriend’s house for their holiday dinner. He called to have me walk him through the process of making my green bean casserole, because he insists that is his favorite memory every year, and that is what he wants to share with the people in his new life. Green beans?! All the money and effort spent in decorating, presents, and trips - and green beans are his favorite memory. Parents, we are all going to be just fine. We do not need to stress or overthink the memory making this holiday season. Be present, show love in the simplest ways, and your family will carry those moments with them for the rest of their lives. Happy Holidays!

Danielle www.wilmingtonparent.com

Wilmington Parent | December 2017 | 5

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HAVE YOU HEARD….? Wilmington may not be a winter wonderland at Christmas, with glistening snow and icicles to top off the holiday scene, but we are full of holiday spirit! Although some in our community struggle financially, with a little effort from all Wilmingtonians, there is no excuse to not feel the love and joy of the holiday season in our coastal community. Cape Fear Volunteer Center has many opportunities for neighbors to help each other share their love throughout the holiday season. This month they need help with their food bank, at local schools, and they are also seeking volunteers on Saturday mornings to restore donated bikes for children in need. Cleaners, preppers, and mechanics wanted and no experience is required. Register at www.capefearvolunteercenter.org.

Every day is another chance to find a new hidden holiday treasure around Wilmington. Twinkling lights, visits with Santa, holiday storytimes, and live shows are abundant. One such show is taking a new approach to the season with Weird Tales of the Holidays, presented by Superstar Academy. Superstar Academy, a Wilmington nonprofit that provides after school and in-school acting outreach programs for area youth, presents a three part production that explores holiday celebrations with a “Twilight Zone”-type twist. “Nguzo Saba Stew” discovers the traditions of Kwanzaa, “The Mystery of the Missing Menorah” teaches the history of the Hanukkah holiday with a little supernatural time traveling, and “Christmas in Space” finds the Robinson family 9 years in to their mission to Mars, their children never having celebrated Christmas on Earth. Showtimes are as follows: December 6th & 7th at 7pm, December 9th, at 12pm, December 13th & 14th at 7pm, December 16th & 17th at 12pm at TheatreNOW, 19 S. 10th St. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for kids 12 and younger and can be purchased at the door. New Hanover County Libraries are an excellent resource for local families to connect, participate in year-round educational activities, and teach their children about the importance of literacy. Last month, the County Commissioners voted to award a $5.5 million contract to Bordeaux Construction Company to build a new library branch to better serve these families. The new library will be almost 3,500 square-feet larger than what was originally planned and the additional square footage is hoped to be more accommodating for the needs of the community. Library Director Harry Tuchmayer said the new library will be serving more residents in a five-mile radius than the other libraries in the county. The new library will be known as the Pine Valley Branch Library and will be located at 3802 South College Rd, about two miles north of the current Myrtle Grove Library. Construction for the new library is scheduled to begin this month. Victor Vines, president of Vines Architecture said he expects the Pine Valley Branch Library to open in January of 2019. Unless you have found a way to live completely off the grid in Wilmington, then I’m sure you’ve heard about the chemical controversy surrounding our water source. GenX is a chemical used in the production of Teflon™ and it has been detected in the Cape Fear River, the drinking water source for Wilmington. In an effort to better understand the extent of the problem, scientists from NC State University, East Carolina University, and the US Environmental Protection Agency have been working closely with community leaders from New Hanover County to develop the GenX Exposure Study, a study to assess whether GenX and related chemicals are detectable in the bodies of Wilmington area residents. The purpose of this study is to assess current exposure to GenX and related chemicals in people living in the Lower Cape Fear River Basin. GenX Exposure Study is looking for more families to participate in the study. They currently need 300 more participants. Visit tinyurl.com/GenXnc for more information. This is what they are looking for in study participants: • People who have lived in New Hanover County for the past 12 months • Age 6 or older • Men and non-pregnant female • Willing to provide blood, urine, and questionnaire information • Primary drinking water source in your home is provided by the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority

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6 | December 2017 | Wilmington Parent

Have a tip, lead, or just an interesting bit of news to share? I want to hear all about it! Send me an email to danielle.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com.

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PRODUCT REVIEW

Formia Design Turn children’s artwork into jewelry to be treasured forever. Formia Design can transform a photo or children’s drawing into precious metal keepsakes creating wearable art. The drawings can be created with pencil, pen, crayon, marker, paint, chalk or even on a Magna Doodle. Formia Design will take that work of art and replicate the exact same design into fun and functional handmade jewelry that you can wear anywhere and everywhere you go. Choose from necklaces, rings, charm bracelets, bracelets, earrings, keychains, pendants, bookmarks, money clips, tie clips, bottle openers and more.All make great gifts for moms, dads, grandparents, teachers and that ‘hard to buy for’ person. Formia Design can even take baby’s tiny footprints and put it on jewelry too. Browse all the beautiful one-of-a-kind options at: www.formiadesign.com. Formia Design is taking orders for the holidays until December 20th.

Sababa Natural Spring Water Did you know that in America one out of six children go to bed hungry? Or that there are over thirteen million food insecure children here, whose lack of nutrition impairs their ability to thrive emotionally, physically, and in school? At Sababa Water, they are helping turn the tide of these troubling statistics by donating a meal to a food insecure child for every bottle of water they sell. Sababa is a One into One™ company. For every product sold, Sababa gives a meal to a child in need, right back into the community where the product was sold. Sababa provides an opportunity for people to give back without changing their habits or daily routines. Sababa represents a way of life and making a difference in the community. Find out more at www.sababawater.com.

Non-Alcoholic Ginger Beer Brooklyn Crafted has launched a new line of ginger beer Mini Bottles, cased in 7 fluid ounce bottles and available in four different flavors. Each authentic mini ginger beer variety is made with fresh, unfiltered ginger pieces you can actually see. The new Brooklyn Crafted Mini Bottles line includes: • Brooklyn Crafted Traditional Ginger Beer: Featuring classic notes of spice and ginger, the Traditional Ginger Beer allows simple ingredients to shine. • Brooklyn Crafted Earl Grey Ginger Beer: One of the most unique ginger beer flavors, this variety packs a bold, ginger taste with the pleasant aroma of Earl Grey brewed from real tea leaves. • Brooklyn Crafted Lemon & Lime Ginger Beer: With a refreshing fusion of lemon and lime, this twist on the classic citrus combo features a subtle ginger kick. • Brooklyn Crafted Mango Ginger Beer: Enjoy the tropics with this Mango Ginger Beer flavor that provides a thirst- quenching blend of sweet and spicy. v

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Winter Session Starts NOW!

This is where you begin

This is where you can go

www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com 3529 Carolina Beach Road • 910-796-1896

Produced by The Wilmington Ballet Company

December 16th 6:00pm

December 17th 3:00pm

Featuring The U.S. International Ballet with 23 professional dancers from 5 countries lead by Italian ballet stars, Walter Angelini and Ines Albertini. Spectacular costumes, magnificent sets, silk aerial artist, stilt walkers and more!!!

Daniel Seamans (anchor WWAY) serves as master of ceremonies. Performed at The Wilson Center Tickets available at:

www.capefearstage.com

910-362-7999

Wilmington Parent | December 2017 | 7

GROWING UP ONLINE

EIGHT WAYS TECH CAN BRING YOUR FAMILY CLOSER THIS HOLIDAY By Carolyn Jabs

oon holiday music will fill the air—punctuated by the rings and dings of smartphones. Regardless of their traditions, lots of families will be making rules about when NOT to use cellphones—during midnight mass, at the Kwanzaa dinner table, while lighting Hanukkah candles, and so on. Most parents can agree that it’s a good idea to set aside part of the holidays to focus entirely on the people who have been able to gather in the same room. At the same time, it’s also helpful to remember all the ways technology can bring families closer, especially at this time of year. Young people, in particular, filter much of their experience through their phones, so turning off the phone for extended periods of time may actually make them feel less connected. Integrating the capabilities of technology into the holiday has several benefits. First, it allows richer contact with distant family and friends. Second, it can simplify holiday chores from party planning to greeting cards. And, finally, it gives tech-savvy kids a meaningful role in making the holidays special whether by documenting every dish at the holiday feast or playing DJ during a family party. Here are just a few of the ways technology can enhance your holidays. Whenever possible, use the simplest apps so as many people as possible can participate.

Plan Parties. Does your neighborhood do an annual caroling party? Would you like to get friends together for a cookie exchange? Do you want family members to take charge of a dish for the family feast? Using an app like Party Planner will help you manage the details from inviting guests and tracking responses to delegating tasks and keeping a grip on the budget. Entering necessary information the first year may take a little time, but it lays the groundwork for effortless traditions in years ahead.

Send Greetings. Even though fewer families have time for handwritten cards or newsletters, the tradition of sharing holiday greetings is worth preserving. Use your phone to take a photo or make a short video that captures what’s unique about your family this year. Do something goofy, sing a few lines of a song together, have each family member write or speak about something memorable. Distribute through social media, email or even in an envelope. Do this every year and you’ll create a very special timeline that shows your kids growing up before your eyes.

Tune Up. Build a festive family playlist for the holidays and other occasions. Ask everyone old enough to talk to make suggestions. Of course, there are holiday playlists available on sites like Pandora but it’s a lot more meaningful—and fun—to juxtapose grandma’s favorites from the 40’s with something your nephew learned in preschool. Chat Long Distance. Coming home for the holidays may be everyone’s dream but it’s not always feasible. Schedule a time for a video chat with distant loved ones. Group chats can sometimes be awkward so encourage family members to take turns. Do a little coaching so kids are prepared to thank relatives for gifts and maybe even model clothes or demonstrate what they can do with a new toy. Light candles or sing together. Ask questions that prompt elders to share memories and stories.

Group Text. If video chatting makes everyone (especially teens) self conscious, try using GroupMe, a free app that allows everyone in the family to see the same text messages. GroupMe works with SMS and every Smartphone platform. Give it a try in your immediate family, and then expand the group to include cousins and other relatives.

Play Games. Ask pre-teens for the best family friendly games or find apps that simulate classics like Scrabble and Checkers. Help grandparents sign up so they can play across the room or across the country. If someone in the family is lucky enough to get a video game system, be sure at least one game is easy enough and light-hearted enough to be played by all ages. Consider creating customized games for your family. For example, try making up a scavenger hunt that involves taking photos connected with family traditions—a beloved family ornament, a sleeping relative, Grandpa’s favorite cookie, the dog wearing a holiday hat. Collect Photos. On special occasions, everyone takes photos and videos on their own phones. Even if someone says, “Send me that picture,” people forget and fragments of the holiday disappear into the undifferentiated photos on various devices. This year, set up a password protected site on Flickr, Instagram or even Google. Send the link to everyone in the family. Ask them to upload their favorite photos and videos to a create a collective album.

Start a Family Media Channel. Establish a blog or a social media

There are, of course, plenty of other ways technology can make the holidays more fun and even more meaningful. Embracing these possibilities with an open heart makes it more likely that everyone will respond well at the times when someone says, “Let’s put away our phones and drink in the joy of being together right here, right now!” v

group, and limit access to extended family and special friends. Invite kids, cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents to participate, providing whatever support they need to get connected. Encourage everyone to post inside jokes, recipes, holiday memories, bits of family lore. To make people more comfortable about sharing things that are heartfelt or silly, establish a simple rule: what appears on the site can’t be shared anywhere else without permission.

Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing about families and technology for over twenty years. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart, a book that describes a highly effective way to address conflict in families, schools and communities. Available at Amazon and cooperativewisdom.org.

8 | December 2017 | Wilmington Parent

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GOING GREEN FOR THE NEW YEAR D By Sara Barry

o you find yourself hauling more trash to the transfer station or out to the curb after the holiday season? Recycling is a great start, but it’s only one of the Rs you should know. To really reduce waste, you’ll want to refuse, reduce, reuse, and recycle.

Refuse Opt out of catalogs - Call retailers directly and ask to stop receiving catalogs or use a service like catalogchoice.org to cut back on the paper you need to recycle. Think first - Free pens, water bottles, and other items can be appealing, but will you use them? Get your family used to saying, “Do we need this?” before picking up freebies.

Reduce Look for limited packaging - Buy items in bulk when you can. Buy items that aren’t excessively packaged. Skip disposables - Further reduce by replacing disposables at your new year’s parties with real plates, glasses, and utensils. Bringing baked goods or a dish to share to a party? Label your reusable container or bring it in a thrift store pan or plate that can be reused.

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Reuse

Get crafty - Get ideas by searching Pinterest for upcycled + “whatever item you want to reuse” Not a crafter yourself? Offer up those reusable items (think t-shirts, bottles, frames, playing cards, books . . . ) on Freecycle for other crafters to use. Donate toys - Have your kids choose toys they don’t use and donate them. Check around to find a place for donations. Check online at www.donationtown.org for ideas.

Recycle Drop off your old lights - NHC Libraries will be collecting broken Christmas Tree Lights (or other holiday string lights) through January 5, 2018. The collected lights will be recycled locally with proceeds benefiting Keep New Hanover Beautiful. Don’t trash the tree - See if your area mulches holiday trees or has a separate disposal areas for them. Some organizations even pick up the tree for a small fee or donation.

Wilmington Parent | December 2017 | 9

• PLAN YOUR MONTH WITH US

CALENDAR

DECEMBER | 2017 ALL MONTH LONG! Cape Fear Festival of Trees November 20-December 31. 9am-5pm. NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher. The Lower Cape Fear Hospice Foundation and First Citizens Bank present the 2017 Cape Fear Festival of Trees at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. All visitors who purchase a general admission ticket to the Aquarium between Nov. 20 and Dec. 31 will also experience this annual holiday presentation. Closed Thanksgiving Day. Enchanted Airlie Dec. 1 & 2; Dec. 8-10; Dec. 13-22. 5 & 7pm. Airlie Gardens. A New Hanover County tradition since 2005, guests from around the world have visited to take in the sparkling sights and festive sounds of the season. Guests will experience a 0.5m stroll through the Gardens, on a self-guided walking tour while feasting their eyes on a spectacular array of lights and holiday displays. Also in attendance, Santa Claus himself, and a few local food and beverage vendors with hot chocolate, popcorn, cookies, beer, wine and more! Tickets often sell out in advance so reserve yours early at www.airliegardens.org. Holiday Train Expo Fridays 6-9pm, Saturdays 1-6pm, & Sundays 1-5pm. Independence Mall, Sears Wing. Featuring an exhibition of model trains traveling through a wonderland of villages, parks, and landscapes. Admission is $5.

10 | December 2017 | Wilmington Parent

Christmas Train and Light Spectacular Every Friday and Saturday until Christmas. 6:308:30pm. Wilmington Railroad Museum. Bigger and better than ever this year! Admission will be $5 per person - under 2 free. Bonus shows on December 26th, 29th and 30th History Walking Tours of Old Wilmington Daily (Year Round). Cotton Exchange, Downtown. This leisurely tour takes us back in time as we talk about: Three of the most historic homes in Wilmington. History of Wilmington’s downtown and how it developed. Cape Fear River and its importance to the area. Wilmington during the Civil War, what life was like. Victorian customs, Folklore and Much More. Under age 12 admitted free with 2 paying adults. Call for tour times. $12/Adults. $8/Students & Seniors. Visit www.TourOldWilmington.blogspot.com or call 409-4300 for information. Changing America Exhibit Opening 3:30-5pm. Cape Fear Museum. Celebrate the opening of the Smithsonian’s Changing America exhibit at Cape Fear Museum. Experience an uplifting selection of songs from the 1860s to the 1960s with the Williston Alumni Community Choir directed by Marva Robinson. Explore the exhibit to discover how the events 1863 and 1963, the Emancipation Proclamation and the March of Washington, are linked together in the larger story of liberty and the American experience. The Williston Alumni Community Choir

will perform from 3:30pm until approximately 4pm. Light refreshments will be served. Come early to preview the exhibit before the choir performs. Changing America will be on exhibit at Cape Fear Museum from until December 15, 2017.

1 FRIDAY Toddler Time 10am, Fridays. Children’s Museum. No registration necessary. Projects and activities for our youngest visitors (ages 4 and under) and their special grownups to work on together. Call 254-3534 or visit www. playwilmington.org for more information. Little Explorers 10am, Fridays. Cape Fear Museum. Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments and fun in Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, exploration stations and play related to a weekly theme. In event of inclement weather, program moved inside. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers. Adult participation is required. Little Explorers is sponsored by the PNC Foundation. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for more information. Family Yoga Storytime 10:30am, Fridays. Main Library. Parents & children birth - 5 will have fun listening to stories while stretching and learning basic yoga postures with www.wilmingtonparent.com

Miss Susan. Children must have an adult present. discover artifacts (courtesy of Cape Fear Museum). DifWear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat or ferent adventure each week. Families welcome. $8/perbeach towel. No registration required! Call 798-6353 son. Visit www.theatrewilmington.com for tickets. for more details. Polar Express at the Railroad Museum Adventures in the Arts 4:30pm & 5:30pm. Wilmington Railroad Museum. The 3:30pm, Fridays. Children’s Museum. Please pre- Annual Reading of the Polar Express with Hot Chocolate register. Bring your child to express their creativity and a visit from Santa. Two readings each day. RESERVAthrough various forms of art including--but not limited TIONS are REQUIRED. Admission will be $5 per person, to--painting, sculpture, music, theater, dance, drawing, under 2 free. For information and reservations please and printing. Visit www.playwilmington.org for details. call the Museum at 763-2634. The Polar Express Storytime 7pm, Fridays. Barnes & Noble. All aboard! Come in your PJs and join us for a magical evening as we host our annual Storytime of the beloved classic The Polar Express. Coloring and activities to follow. Call 509-1880 for details. Carolina Beach Christmas Parade 7:30pm. Carolina Beach. Floats, bands and Santa Clause will be there to add to the festivities of the season and provide a night of entertainment for families.

Dashing Through the Glow 5K 5:30pm. Riverlights Community. Featuring Christmas lights and decorations throughout the course. The event also includes a Christmas Tree Lighting and a visit from Santa. Elves will be at the finish line passing out candy cane awards to all the good little boys and girls who finish the 5K and 1-mile fun run. All participants receive a Santa hat. Register at its-go-time.com.

Carolina Beach Christmas Flotilla 6pm. Carolina Beach. Fishing boats and pleasure craft electrically decorated with thousands of lights present 2 SATURDAY a spectacular display on the Intracoastal Waterway. They cruise from Snow’s Cut to the Carolina Beach Boat Basin Holiday Truck Tour and back. The boats compete for prizes and add to the 8am-12pm. All Motors Automotive, 3306 Kitty Hawk wonderful holiday spirit. Rd. This event features a chance for kids to limb on Fire Engines, Tow Trucks, Garbage Trucks and more, plus en- Christmas by the Sea joy free Krispy Kreme Donuts and hot dogs. Entry fee is 6:30pm. Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Free event with a new unwrapped toy or cash donation to Toys For Tots. Christmas carolers, holiday treats, pony rides, roastCall 769-0476 for details. ing marshmallows by the fire pit, ornament crafts and visits with Santa! Visit www.pleasureislandnc.org for more information. Little Explorers 10am, Saturdays. Cape Fear Museum. Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments City Ballet’s A Carolina Nutcracker and fun in Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, 7pm. Wilson Center. Guest artists Jan Burkhard Catlin exploration stations and play related to a weekly theme. and Adam Chavis (Carolina Ballet). Tickets on sale now! In event of inclement weather, program moved inside. www.cfcc.edu/capefearstage/carolina-nutcracker-2017. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers. Adult participation is required. Little Explorers is spon- 3 SUNDAY sored by the PNC Foundation. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for more information. Family Fun Day 9am - 5pm. Airlie Gardens. Visit the parks and ArboreHow the Grinch Stole Christmas Storytime tum for a full day of family fun. Contact 798-7700 or 11am. Barnes & Noble. This classic, heartwarming story visit www.airliegardens.org for more information. about the effects of the Christmas spirit will grow even the coldest and smallest of hearts three sizes. Activities Curiosity Carts to follow. 11:30am. Cape Fear Museum. Get your hands on history and science! Examine artifacts and science Shallotte Multicultural Holiday Festival specimens. Gain insight into topics featured in mu11:30am. 150 Holden Beach Rd. Featuring a chil- seum exhibits. Carts are stationed in Museum galdren’s zone, food of all ethnicities, cultural perfor- leries and feature short hands-on, facilitated experimances, arts & craft vendors, bounce houses, Santa ences for visitors. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com Claus, and presents. for more information. Museum Explorers 2pm, Saturdays. Cape Fear Museum. Ignite your curiosity! Discover history, science and cultures of the Lower Cape Fear through interactive science investigations, hands-on exploration and unique artifacts. Our activities are designed to stimulate curiosity and encourage families to have fun together. Themes vary. Ideal for ages 5 and up. Approximately 45 minutes each time slot. Adult participation is required.

Residents Free Day - Cape Fear Museum 1 – 5pm. Cape Fear Museum. NHC residents are admitted free to the Museum the first Sunday of every month. Call 798-4350 or visit www.capefearmuseum. com for information. City Ballet’s A Carolina Nutcracker 3pm. Wilson Center. Guest artists Jan Burkhard Catlin and Adam Chavis (Carolina Ballet). Tickets on sale now! www.cfcc.edu/capefearstage/carolina-nutcracker-2017.

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and Walnut Streets and moves south on Front Street, ending at Church Street. Bring the whole family for this festive tradition!

4 MONDAY Storytime at Pleasure Island 10:30am, Mondays. Pleasure Island branch Library. Join our fun and educational storytime for all preschool ages (babies to 5 years of age)! We’ll enjoy books, music, manipulatives, and other pre-literacy activities. No registration or fees required. Railroad Storytime 10:30am. Wilmington Railroad Museum. Hear stories and enjoy creative activities in the Children’s Hall. $5/Family. Free/Members. Call 763-2634 for more information. Mini Monets Clay & Sculpture Art Class 4:45-5:30pm, Mondays. Kings Grant Area. Let’s get our hands dirty with clay! All projects will be handmade in different types of clay and sculpting materials. This session is a great opportunity to create art in three dimension. Visit www.minimonetsart.com or call 3991708 for more information.

5 TUESDAY Storytime at the Library 9:30am; 10am; 10:30, Tuesdays. Main Library. Babies up to 18 months at 9:30 are invited to bring an adult lap and enjoy up to 20 minutes of books, songs, fingerplays & rhymes. Toddlers 18 months to 3 years old are invited at 10am to 20 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in Story Place. Preschoolers aged 3 to 5 are invited at 10:30am to 20-30 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in our storytime room! Call 798-6303 for details. Happy Little Singers 9:45am, Tuesdays. Hannah Block USO/Community Arts Center. Music and Movement program for children 6 months to 6 years. Sing, Dance, Instruments, Creative Play with your child. Drop-ins welcome, $10 per family. Please call or text in advance 777-8889. Music and Movement Storytime 10:30am, Tuesdays. Pleasure Island Library. Join other children, parents, and caregivers 5 years and younger for a music and movement storytime! We’ll read a few books, sing, dance and have other active fun! We’ll exercise and develop gross motor skills using a variety of movement and stretching disciplines including dance and yoga. No registration required. Art on Easels 2:30pm, Tuesdays. Northeast Library. We will have 5 double sided easels set up for children to come in and create a masterpiece. Try the theme of the day or free draw. No registration is required, so drop in, create, and then take your art home with you! Kid’s Cooking Club 3:30 - 4:30pm Tuesdays. Children’s Museum. Learn new skills and explore fun seasonal recipes. Then savor the flavor of your hard work. Kids Cooking Club is sponsored by Harris Teeter. Visit www.playwilmington.org for weekly themes and call 254-3534 to pre-register.

12 | December 2017 | Wilmington Parent

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Escape the Death Star! 4, 5, 6, & 7pm. Main Library. Teens! Come test your wits against the Galactic Empire. Can you escape the Death Star and steal the plans for the Rebellion in time? For teens ages 13-18. Please register for ONE of the available sessions. Multiple registrations will be deleted.

6 WEDNESDAY Storytime and Music & Movement 9:30am; 10am; 10:30, Wednesdays. Myrtle Grove & Northeast Libraries. Babies up to 18 months at 9:30 are invited to bring an adult lap and enjoy up to 20 minutes of books, songs, fingerplays & rhymes. Toddlers 18 months to 3 years old are invited at 10am to 20 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in Story Place. Preschoolers aged 3 to 5 are invited at 10:30am to 2030 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in our storytime room! Call 798-6303 for details. S.T.E.M. Explorations 10am & 3:30pm, Wednesdays. Children’s Museum. STEM programs explore Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics by applying them in fun, handson activities. Children will learn about the scientific process while measuring and recording in mathematical terms, developing critical thinking skills in the process. Please pre-register. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information. Christmas Tree Craft 3:30pm. Main Library. Make and decorate an edible Christmas tree! Preschool & elementary ages. No fees, but registration is required at www.nhclibrary.org. Mini Monets Clay & Sculpture Art Class 4:15-5pm, Wednesdays. Carolina Beach Rec Center. Let’s get our hands dirty with clay! All projects will be handmade in different types of clay and sculpting materials. This session is a great opportunity to create art in three dimension. Visit www.minimonetsart.com or call 399-1708 for more information.

CHILDCARE LISTING GUIDE CHILDCARE – PRESCHOOLS Childcare Network 8 convenient locations in Wilmington, Southport and Leland 866-521-KIDS • www.childcarenetwork.com Ages 6-weeks to 12-years The Children’s Schoolhouse Montessori 612 South College Rd. Wilmington, NC 28403 910-799-1531 • www.childrensschoolhouse.org Since 1985. Preschool and North Carolina State Recognized Kindergarten Program. Spanish, Gardening for little hands. Now enrolling students ages 3-5, for 2, 3, or 5 day programs. Jenkins Preschool Academy 7888 Market St. Wilmington, NC 28411 910-367-7210 • www.jpawilmington.com Half day programs 9am-12pm, 2 or 3 day classes for 2-3 yr. olds, 5-day programs for 4 y.o. And PreK Gym & Learn Preschool Program Carolina Gymnastics Academy 3529 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com Ages 3-5, boys & girls, 9am-1pm. A good mix of structure, instruction, and free play including developmentally appropriate academics, gymnastics class, arts & crafts, & socialization. Ongoing registration~choose 2-5 days per week!

Learning Center 2320 Scientific Park Drive Wilmington, NC 28405 910-254-7384 • denise.ward@aaipharma.om Ages 6 weeks-12 years. 5 star program with degreed teachers,low staff /child ratios, and a Project Approach based curriculum. Full day, After School and morning programs available. Pax Natura Academy 4202 Wilshire Blvd. Wilmington, NC 910-791-2080 • www.childcarenetwork.net/159 Early Foundations Infant & Toddler Programs. Preschool for 2 & 3 yo. Kindergarten Prep for 4 & 5 yo. After School Program. Wilmington Christian Academy Kids Campus 1401 North College Road Wilmington, NC 28405 910-791-4248 info@wilmingtonchristian.com www.wilmingtonchristian.com WCA’s new Kids Campus offers quality childcare in a faith-based, nurturing environment. Children (ages 2-4) will play, learn and grow in an inviting facility surrounded by security, technology and meaningful enrichment activities. Come enjoy the indoor jungle gym, convenient location, affordable rates and family friendly hours!

LIST YOUR PRESCHOOL, CHILDCARE CENTER HERE. CONTACT OUR AD EXECUTIVES FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Technology Tools That Support Students 6pm. Hill School of Wilmington. This free workshop is open to the public and designed for parents to help them weed through the hundreds of apps and devices promoted to serve student learning. A practical approach to proven strategies and tools will be introduced and demonstrated. Ideas on ways to take the stress out of overwhelming assignments and help students utilize their individual strengths will be presented. Smart phones and tablets are welcome so that ideas and strategies can be recorded with typed notes, an audio recording, a video, or a picture. Please visit www.HillSchoolofWilmington.org to register.

Porter’s Neck Play House 7946 Market Street #200 Wilmington, NC 28411 910-319-7879 • www.PNPlayhouse.com The Play House is a drop in play center that cares for children 12 months and older. Daily play involves art, games, pretend play, dancing, relay races, puzzles and story time. No matter what time of day you stop in your child will have a great time! Promise. After school care available with transportation. Low hourly rates and affordable monthly packages available. Open at 7:45 M-F

Weird Tales of the Holidays 7pm. TheatreNOW. Superstar Academy, a Wilmington nonprofit that provides after school and in-school acting outreach programs for area youth, presents “Weird Tales of the Holidays,” written by Zach Hanner, a three part production that explores holiday celebrations with a “Twilight Zone”-type twist. Door open 30 minutes prior to show time. No advance sales. Tickets available at the door only. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for kids 12 and younger. All proceeds from the shows go to support our outreach programs at local schools.

Carolina Gymnastics Academy 3529 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 910-796-1896 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com Friday & Saturday nights, 6-10pm, ages 3-10. Drop your children off for supervised free play in our 15,000 sq. foot gymnastics facility. Run, jump, & flip with your friends all night long! Parents can relax at home, or get things done in time for the holidays!

www.wilmingtonparent.com

DROP IN CHILDCARE

PARENTS NIGHT OUT The Little Gym of Wilmington 132 Racine Drive, Unit 1 910-799-3771/3770 tlgwilmingtonnc@thelittlegym.com www.tlgwilmingtonnc.com When school’s out or you are looking for a safe, fun and nurturing environment for your child in Wilmington, we’ve got your back! The Little Gym offers classes as well as weekend Parents’ Survival Nights. We combine physical activity, gymnastics, games, and arts & crafts. Call us for fun! Wilmington Parent | December 2017 | 13

7 THURSDAY

9 SATURDAY

Storytime at the Library 9:30am; 10am; 10:30, Thursdays. Myrtle Grove & Northeast Libraries. Babies up to 18 months at 9:30 are invited to bring an adult lap and enjoy up to 20 minutes of books, songs, fingerplays & rhymes. Toddlers 18 months to 3 years old are invited at 10am to 20 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in Story Place. Preschoolers aged 3 to 5 are invited at 10:30am to 20-30 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in our storytime room! Call 7986303 for details.

Arts, Crafts, and Gifts Christmas Show 10am. Poplar Grove Plantation. Featuring activities for the whole family, specially decorated grounds; more than 90 arts, crafts and food vendors; a bouncy house kingdom and a petting zoo; Santa’s workshop and miniature Main Street; live music; a campfire for roasting marshmallows and smores; a vintage carnival game midway; barnyard fun and games; and a visit from Santa (Saturday, 10am to noon and 2-4pm; Sunday, 1-3pm). Kids under 13 admitted free.

Angela Kelly

Messy Hands Toddler Art 10am. Main Library. It’s the Process, Not the Product. Toddlers and their adults will be introduced to a variety of hands-on art experiences. The focus of this program will be on child driven art exploration. Come join us for a half hour of messy fun & make sure to wear play clothes. This program is designed for children between the ages of 2-4. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required at www.nhclibrary.org. StoryCOOKS 10am, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. A cooking club for preschoolers where we read a story and make a dish inspired by the book. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information and weekly themes. Nature Navigators 3:30pm, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. Join us in exploring the beauty of the world around us! Nature Navigators will help foster a love of nature in children of all ages. From animal tracks to scavenger hunts, come explore some North Carolinian nature with us! Ideal for ages 5 - 9. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information.

Sarah Nowak

Christmas Tree Craft 3:30pm. Main Library. Make and decorate an edible Christmas tree! Preschool & elementary ages. No fees, but registration is required at www.nhclibrary.org. Weird Tales of the Holidays 7pm. TheatreNOW. See 12/06.

8 FRIDAY Live Holiday Music 10am. Myrtle Grove Library. Join NHCPL staff members Michelle on cello and Patricia on clarinet as they perform holiday classics & more for your listening enjoyment. Drop in anytime! Greenfield Lake Tree Lighting and Holiday Movie 5-8pm. Greenfield Lake. Live entertainment, a visit from Santa in the Rotary Garden gazebo (6-8pm), and the screening of a holiday movie at the Hugh Morton Amphitheater (7pm start).

Tim B.

Kure Beach Fantasy Christmas Show 6:30pm. Ocean Front Park. Come on down to Kure Beach for some great holiday entertainment for the whole family. The pre-show starts at 6:30 pm, with the main show beginning at 7:00 pm. Come and meet your favorite Christmas holiday characters, and then some! Try to come early to get a seat, or bring a chair in case the bleachers are full. 14 | December 2017 | Wilmington Parent

Olaf’s Frozen Adventure Storytime 11am. Barnes & Noble. Join us as we follow Olaf, Anna, Kristoff, and Elsa through a frozen adventure to find the best holiday traditions. Activities to follow. Weird Tales of the Holidays 12pm. TheatreNOW. See 12/06. Polar Express at the Railroad Museum 4:30pm & 5:30pm. Wilmington Railroad Museum. The Annual Reading of the Polar Express with Hot Chocolate and a visit from Santa. Two readings each day. RESERVATIONS are REQUIRED. Admission will be $5 per person, under 2 free. For information and reservations please call the Museum at 763-2634. Christmas Stroll Through the Past 4:30pm. Downtown Wilmington. The Bellamy Mansion Museum and the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens invite the community on a Christmas Stroll Through the Past in historic downtown Wilmington, NC. Attendees can celebrate the holidays with a candle lit stroll along a path and visit two historic homes, plus period decorations, music, costumed interpreters, a petting zoo, and children’s activities. Visit www.bellamymansion.org for details. Kure Beach Fantasy Christmas Show 6:30pm. Ocean Front Park. See 12/08. Christmas by the Sea 6:30pm. Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Free event with Christmas carolers, holiday treats, pony rides, roasting marshmallows by the fire pit, ornament crafts and visits with Santa! Visit www.pleasureislandnc.org for more information.

10 SUNDAY Arts, Crafts, and Gifts Christmas Show 10am. Poplar Grove Plantation. See 12/09. Floating Lantern Ceremony 4pm. Cameron Art Museum. Imagine hundreds of paper lanterns floating on water and glowing warmly from their individual source of flickering light – a candle’s flame. Together, they become a soulful display of community spirit. CAM’s Floating Lantern Ceremony is an opportunity for expressions of Remembrance, Reflection and Gratitude. Participants are encouraged to personalize a paper lantern sleeve and then float on CAM’s reflecting pond. Live music – from harps, bagpipes, violins, mandolins and accordions. Festive food and beverage available for purchase. Don’t miss this unique and uplifting event. www.wilmingtonparent.com

Kure Beach Fantasy Christmas Show 6:30pm. Ocean Front Park. See 12/08. A Charlie Brown Christmas Wilson Center. Live reenactment of the 1965 Peanuts’ cartoon special in a fast-paced 28-minute show complete with live with jazz musicians performing the original Vince Guaraldi score. Call 362-7999 for showtimes and ticket prices. Please bring nonperishable food items to donate to Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard.

11 MONDAY

GO THE EXTRA MILE for your children

Board at the Library 3:30pm. Northeast Library. New monthly gaming night. We’ll have a variety of board games available for you to try out, with different titles featured monthly. No registration is required and all are welcome. Financial Aid Workshop with CFNC 6pm. Myrtle Grove Library. This free workshop is for college-bound high school students and their parents. April Query of College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) will explain how to apply for financial aid, starting with the FAFSA application for federal college aid programs. The workshop is free and you don’t need to register to attend. It will be repeated on January 9 at Main Library.

12 TUESDAY Art on Easels 2:30pm, Tuesdays. Northeast Library. We will have 5 double sided easels set up for children to come in and create a masterpiece. Try the theme of the day or free draw. No registration is required, so drop in, create, and then take your art home with you!

13 WEDNESDAY Art Cart @ PI 3:30pm. Pleasure Island Library. Let your creativity flow in our creation station. We’ll have a cart set out in the children’s area full of materials for you to engage in a selfpaced craft or activity. Kids ages 5-12. No registration required.

Dr. Raaj Amin

27417 Andrew Jackson Hwy E, Delco, NC 28436

www.sandpiperpediatrics.com 910-207-0777

Weird Tales of the Holidays 7pm. TheatreNOW. See 12/06.

14 THURSDAY Preschool Math and Science Program 10am. Cape Fear Museum. Play, learn, and explore with your child. Math and science concepts will be introduced through interactive story times, hands on science experiments and exploration stations. This program is designed for children between the ages of 3-6. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required at www.nhclibrary.org. Hello Hibernation 10am. Halyburton Park. Bring your “Little Explorers” ages 2-5 out to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for these popular programs. $3/participant. Call 341-0075 to register. Preschool Math and Science Program 3:30pm. Northeast Library. Play, learn, and explore with your child. Math and science concepts will be introduced through interactive story times, hands on science experiments and exploration stations. This program is designed for children between the ages of 3-6. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required at www.nhclibrary.org. Weird Tales of the Holidays 7pm. TheatreNOW. See 12/06.

15 FRIDAY Hello Hibernation 10am. Halyburton Park. Bring your “Little Explorers” ages 2-5 out to the park and www.wilmingtonparent.com

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Did you know your insurance could cover varicose vein treatments?

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discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for these popular programs. $3/participant. Call 341-0075 to register.

Weird Tales of the Holidays 12pm. TheatreNOW. See 12/06.

Gingerbread Houses 3:30pm. Myrtle Grove Library. For ages 5-10. Come build your own Gingerbread house with our yummy ingredients and your imagination! Registration is required at www.nhclibrary.org or call 910-798-6393.

Polar Express at the Railroad Museum 4:30pm & 5:30pm. Wilmington Railroad Museum. The Annual Reading of the Polar Express with Hot Chocolate and a visit from Santa. Two readings each day. RESERVATIONS are REQUIRED. Admission will be $5 per person, under 2 free. For information and reservations please call the Museum at 763-2634.

Paula Vasquez

Christmas on the Farm 6pm. Hubbs Farm. Christmas at Hubbs will take adults back to the joys of being a kid again. And for kids, their eyes will light up with excitement as they ride the Hubb’s Express Train around the Christmas Inflatable Wonderland. You will get a chance to visit with Santa Claus for making the perfect picture. Enjoy warming by the fire pits while sipping hot chocolate. Children can enjoy the farm attractions such as the jump pillow, giant slides, toddler town and more.

16 SATURDAY Nature Holiday Crafts 9am-12pm. Halyburton Park. Featuring park naturalists at different stations where children ages 3 and older can create crafts such as bird feeders out of pine cones and more. Pre-registration required by calling 341-0075 . Santa by the Sea 9am-5pm. Fort Fisher Aquarium. A magical holiday experience with Santa and his aquatic friends. Meet a live penguin! Take photos with Santa! Play games and explore the Aquarium’s decked halls. Santa will delight the entire family by diving alongside sharks, eels and one of his favorite sea turtle friends in three dive programs per day. Free with general Aquarium admission.

Yulia Z.

Dance to the Nutcracker 10:30am. Main Library. Don’t miss this fun dance class for ages 2-6! The story comes to life with costumes and props created by local dance instructor, Maria Johnson. Space is limited, please register. Email Miss Susan for more details: sdemarco@nhcgov.com River Rose and the Magical Christmas 11am. Barnes & Noble. It’s Christmas Eve and River Rose wants to stay up all night to hand-deliver a note to Santa, but she and her dog fall asleep only to find they’ve been swept off on another magical adventure. Activities to follow.

Christmas on the Farm 12pm. Hubbs Farm. See 12/15.

The Great Wilmington Nutcracker 6pm. The Wilson Center. An incredible journey for the performers and audience. This timeless story is brought to life by ballerinas, dancing dolls, armies of menacing mice, and triumphant toy soldiers in WBC’s full length production of the “The Nutcracker”, which includes over 200 talented dancers from several local ballet and dance schools in the area. Christmas by the Sea 6:30pm. Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Free event with Christmas carolers, holiday treats, pony rides, roasting marshmallows by the fire pit, ornament crafts and visits with Santa! Visit www.pleasureislandnc.org for more information.

17 SUNDAY Santa by the Sea 9am-5pm. Fort Fisher Aquarium. See 12/15. Weird Tales of the Holidays 12pm. TheatreNOW. See 12/06. Christmas on the Farm 1pm. Hubbs Farm. See 12/15. The Great Wilmington Nutcracker 3pm. The Wilson Center. See 12/16. Polar Express at the Railroad Museum 4:30pm & 5:30pm. Wilmington Railroad Museum. The Annual Reading of the Polar Express with Hot Chocolate and a visit from Santa. Two readings each day. RESERVATIONS are REQUIRED. Admission will be $5 per person, under 2 free. For information and reservations please call the Museum at 763-2634.

EVERYTHING MUST GO

PAINT-N-PLAY CERAMICS Lindsey Moraco

CHRISTMAS RETIREMENT 30% OFF INVOICE CALL 452-7177 FOR STUDIO HOURS OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK FOR DEC. except birthday parties

16 | December 2017 | Wilmington Parent

www.wilmingtonparent.com

18 MONDAY Railroad Storytime 10:30am. Wilmington Railroad Museum. Hear stories and enjoy creative activities in the Children’s Hall. $5/Family. Free/Members. Call 763-2634 for more information.

19 TUESDAY Magnets 3:30pm. Main Library. Have fun learning the basics of geometry, physics, architecture, engineering, and more using iron balls, magnetic poles and tripods to create unique objects. Ages 6 and up. Registration is required.

20 WEDNESDAY LEGO We-Do Robots 2-5pm. Cape Fear Museum. Families of young engineers and scientists will work together and bring LEGO to life. Use kid friendly programming tools to build and program your first robot. Space is limited. Appropriate for ages 5-7 and an adult helper. $10 per group for members, $23 per group for nonmembers (up to 4 people per robot). Pre-registration is required, call 798-4362. Art Cart @ PI 3:30pm. Pleasure Island Library. Let your creativity flow in our creation station. We’ll have a cart set out in the children’s area full of materials for you to engage in a selfpaced craft or activity. Kids ages 5-12. No registration required.

21 THURSDAY Messy Hands Toddler Art 10am. Main Library. It’s the Process, Not the Product. Toddlers and their adults will be introduced to a variety of hands-on art experiences. The focus of this program will be on child driven art exploration. Come join us for a half hour of messy fun & make sure to wear play clothes. This program is designed for children between the ages of 2-4. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required at www.nhclibrary.org. LEGO Mindstorm Robots 2-5pm. Cape Fear Museum. Get creative with a LEGO MINDSTORM® robot. Work with Museum educators to build and program a simple robot or use your imagination to create a more complex one. Appropriate for ages 8+ with an adult helper. Space is limited. Appropriate for ages 5-7 and an adult helper. $10 per group for members, $23 per group for nonmembers (up to 4 people per robot). Pre-registration is required, call 798-4362. Christmas on the Farm 6pm. Hubbs Farm. Christmas at Hubbs will take adults back to the joys of being a kid again. And for kids, their eyes will light up with excitement as they ride the Hubb’s Express Train around the Christmas Inflatable Wonderland. You will get a chance to visit with Santa Claus for making the perfect picture. Enjoy warming by the fire pits while sipping hot chocolate. Children can enjoy the farm attractions such as the jump pillow, giant slides, toddler town and more.

High Quality Child Care That Will Last Your Child A Life Time

LEARNING CENTER *Five Star Child Care Center* limited space available

• Infant & Toddler Program - Safe, nurturing & Loving environment • 2 to 4 year old Preschool Classes - Preparing your child for Kindergarten through an inquiry-based Curriculum- Project Approach • 2 to 4 year old Morning Program - 8:30 - 12:30pm Monday to Friday • School Age - After School & Summer Camp Located off 23rd St. w/ easy access from MLK or Market St. #65000833

2320 Scientific Park Dr. Wilmington, NC 28405

CALL For A Tour 910.254.7384 or 910.254.7385

Wilmington Basketball Center

22 FRIDAY Christmas on the Farm 6pm. Hubbs Farm. See 12/21. 4th Friday Gallery Night 6pm. Downtown Wilmington. The Arts Council of Wilmington and New Hanover County presents 4th Friday Gallery Night, a free monthly self-guided tour of galleries, studios and art spaces featuring exhibitions of various artistic genres including oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, photography, glass, metals, wood, ceramics, mixed media and more. 4th Fridays also include opening receptions, artist discussions, demonstrations, live music, wine, food and other traditional and nontraditional art-related activities.

Supervised after school program

Offering homework assistance, daily basketball instruction and competition! Monday- Friday, dismissal-6:00 PM Registration fee: $35.00: $85.00 per 1 child: $5.00 discount per additional sibling AFTER SCHOOL PICK UP FOR: Ogden, Blair, Murrayville, Castle Hayne, Noble Middle, Holly Shelter and Trask Middle

23 SATURDAY Santa’s Magic Key Storytime 11am. Barnes & Noble. In this unforgettable holiday story, a boy realizes on Christmas Eve that his new house does not have a chimney. With the post office closed www.wilmingtonparent.com

7207 Ogden Business LaneWilmington, NC 28411

910-233-7468 • Sign up at wbcinc.org Wilmington Parent | December 2017 | 17

and Santa coming by the end of the night, he has no way of telling Santa. But when the boy finds a mysterious key, he’ll soon discover just how this key will solve his problem. Activities to follow. Christmas on the Farm 12pm. Hubbs Farm. See 12/21. Polar Express at the Railroad Museum 4:30pm & 5:30pm. Wilmington Railroad Museum. The Annual Reading of the Polar Express with Hot Chocolate and a visit from Santa. Two readings each day. RESERVATIONS are REQUIRED. Admission will be $5 per person, under 2 free. For information and reservations please call the Museum at 763-2634.

24 SUNDAY - CHRISTMAS EVE HAPPY HOLIDAYS! 25 MONDAY - CHRISTMAS MERRY CHRISTMAS! 26 TUESDAY Christmas Train and Light Spectacular 6:30-8:30pm. Wilmington Railroad Museum. Bigger and better than ever this year! Admission will be $5 per person - under 2 free.

27 WEDNESDAY Toys and Games for All 10am-1pm. Cape Fear Museum. Get ready to play! Bring your family and friends and experience a variety of toys and games from modern to historic times. Build your own folk toys, challenge your family and friends to pirate games, discover Native American games, and enjoy contemporary games as well. No registration needed, drop in anytime.

28 THURSDAY Astronomy Adventure 10am-1pm. Cape Fear Museum. The universe is wide open! Come explore what lies beyond our world. Discover your own exoplanet, build a pocket solar system, concoct a comet, participate in a planet jam, create a constellation, manipulate a moon-phaser, investigate “Bear’s Shadow” and more! No registration needed, drop in anytime.

29 FRIDAY Holiday Train Expo 6-9pm. Independence Mall, Sears Wing. Featuring an exhibition of model trains traveling through a wonderland of villages, parks, and landscapes. Admission is $5.

30 SATURDAY The Story of Ferdinand Storytime 11am. Barnes & Noble. All the other bulls love to run and jump and butt their heads together, but not Ferdinand. He would rather sit and smell the flowers. Then one day he is picked for the bullfights in Madrid. Join us to find out how Ferdinand fares in this classic story, in theaters now. Activities to follow.

31 SUNDAY - NEW YEAR’S EVE Carolina Beach New Year’s Celebration 9pm. Carolina Beach. Don’t miss the giant beach ball being dropped at midnight followed by a spectacular fireworks demonstration. This free family-friendly event will feature a DJ and dancing with refreshments and party favors available for purchase. In an Island of Lights tradition there will be a raffle, with the winner taking home the original artwork for the Island of Lights 2017 official Christmas card and ornament.

To submit events to the calendar, please email calendar.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com. Deadline for submissions to the January issue is December 9, 2017. 18 | December 2017 | Wilmington Parent

www.wilmingtonparent.com

FAMILY TRAVEL

GINGERBREAD TOUR

very year since my children were small, we always attempted to create a masterpiece of tasty gingerbread, candy pieces, and icing. Although our creations were memorable, I loved visiting gingerbread displays that truly brought the holidays to life in a fantastical way. Our wonderful state does not disappoint if you are looking for gingerbread inspiration. Here is a roundup of a few places that will bring the sweet gingerbread fantasy to life.

National Gingerbread House Competition - Asheville, NC The winning creations will be on display until January 4, 2018. As a means to preserve the overall guest experience, The Omni Grove Park Inn invites guests not staying at the resort to view the display after 3:00 p.m. on Sundays or anytime Monday through Thursday, based on parking availability. The gingerbread display has become a true family holiday tradition. From the very young to the very young at heart, the reaction to this magical experience is the same - one of wonder, awe and delight. The National Gingerbread House Competition, one of the biggest gingerbread contests in the United States, takes place every year in Asheville, North Carolina. It started in 1992, when members of the local community were invited to display their gingerbread houses in The Omni Grove Park Inn’s great hall. Then someone had the idea to award a winner — and the contest has been growing ever since. People from the United States and Canada now submit roughly 150 entries per year. To see the winners from the 2016 competition visit www.omnihotels.com.

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Gingerbread House Bakery - Frisco, NC Although this is not an edible gingerbread house, it still evokes the feeling of coming across a real life fantasy. Located 5 minutes south of the Cape Hatteras Light House in Frisco, North Carolina. For 43 years serving baked goods made from scratch on Hatteras Island. Plenty of parking is available and they also offer an amazing breakfast. The only restaurant on Hatteras Island with a fresh squeezed orange juice machine which is actually pretty fun to watch (over 90,000 oranges used). The best part about this excursion, is the visit to the beach with coffee and pastry in hand.

Carolina Inn Twelve Days of Christmas Now in its twentieth year, The Carolina Inn will once again celebrate the Christmas season with enchanting decorations inspired by the traditional holiday song, The Twelve Days of Christmas. The Inn is a vision of seasonal wonder with magnificently decorated trees, holiday décor, and events to keep the entire family entertained. New this year is The Carolina Inn Holiday Market and Holiday Express and on December 22nd, just in time for Christmas, The Carolina Inn is hosting a children’s Gingerbread House Making Class. Enjoy a cozy afternoon that begins with a story of Christmas magic, then each child will be able to assemble and decorate their very own Gingerbread House complete with an apron, chef’s hat and all the holiday sweets and goodies that their imaginations can hold. At the end of class, each child will take home a completed Gingerbread House and accessories. Register for this and find out more about holiday events at www.carolinainn.com/twelvedays-events. v

Wilmington Parent | December 2017 | 19

SPECIAL SECTION: Welcome the Holidays

SENSORY KIDS:

The Top Christmas Gifts to Get Them

By Meagan Ruffing

ifts can be tricky for kids like my son Dylan. Sure, they like all the same things that other kids do but when their world already seems overwhelming, a calming sensory-activity based toy is really what they crave. Think simple. Check out these top 10 gifts for your sensory seeking child.

1. Water Beads. These things are amazing. They start out as tiny little beads (about the size of a tip of a pen) but when you soak them in water for 4-6 hours, they expand to marble-looking bubbles. This will probably be one of your child’s favorite gifts because it is so unique. This Frog Life Cycle Pond Kit is one of my favorites.

2. Rice bucket with small toys. Just go to the dollar store and pick up a cheap shoe box container. Grab a bag of rice and a few trinket-like toys. Dump the bag of rice in the shoebox container and hide the toys in the rice. This activity will keep your child busy for a long time. 3. Lego lunchbox. This one is awesome. Do you have any old-school lunch boxes lying around? The tin ones that your kids like to play with? Take a Lego base, score it to fit the inside lid of the lunchbox. Superglue this down. Add a few Lego pieces inside the box. Voila! Your child now has their very own Lego lunchbox to play with at home or on-the-go. 4. Moon Sand. Hands-down one of the best sensory-based activities you will ever come across. Moon Sand can be bought pretty much anywhere. All major retailers carry it so plan on spending around $10-20 for a nice sized kit. Moon sand is similar to playdough but it feels like sand. When you pick it up with your hand, it falls through your fingers just like sand does but without the mess. This is also great for hiding toys in. 5. Playdough. A family favorite. Children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) like the way playdough feels because it is relaxing. The feeling of squishing something and molding something into whatever your imagination will come up with is such a soothing activity for really anyone but, especially those who have a hard time processing things around them.

20 | December 2017 | Wilmington Parent

6. Stress ball. A simple stress ball is great for children with anxiety. This is also an ideal ‘tool’ to have in your child’s classroom. His teacher can store it in her desk and when she sees that your child is starting to feel overwhelmed, stressed or fidgety, she can give him the stress ball. This is a great way to get the child to refocus their attention without making a big deal about it in front of the rest of the class.

7. Balloons. This was one I had never thought of before but my son’s occupational therapist used it in one of his sessions. Buy a bag of regular old balloons. Blow them up. Let your child toss it in the air, swat it around and watch his face light up with a smile. Better yet, join in on the fun and take turns hitting it back and forth with each other.

8. Gum, lollipops and Tic-Tacs. These would make great stocking stuffers. They are small, practical pieces of candy that help with oral stimulation. I use these all the time with my son when he is having a hard time focusing. Whether it be him being hyper, moody or a little bit of both, he knows he can go to the pantry in our home and take one of these items whenever he needs to. 9. Seamless socks and tag-less shirts and pants. Clothes can feel like the end-all be-all for children with SPD and most families steer clear of asking friends and family to buy clothes for their child for Christmas because what feels good one day for your child, doesn’t always feel good the next day. But, chances are, your child’s wardrobe consists of primarily seamless and tagless items. Seamless socks can be found online and look for elastic-free pants so that your child doesn’t have to worry about getting their pants to ‘feel right’. v Meagan Ruffing is a parenting journalist, author, and speaker. She always has an arsenal of sensory-based activities and toys tucked away in her pantry. Follow her on social media to find out the latest information and tips and tricks on how to make your life easier with a child who has special needs. Visit her at www.meaganruffing.com.

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The Art of Connection A

By Michael J. Gelb

s the holidays approach we all think about the conversations we are going to have. Those we look forward to having and those thrust upon us. How do we talk about the year in review? Hot button political questions? Hurricanes? Fires?

Embrace Humility — Humility is the source of genuine strength and confidence, cultivate it. Be open to seeing your chatty Aunt Edith in a new light. Ask her some questions. What’s her earliest Thanksgiving memory? What is she most grateful for? How did she develop her recipe for stuffing? Be a Glowworm — Emotions are contagious, spread the energy to bring out the best in yourself and others. Thanks to mirror neurons others will reflect and magnify the attitudes you manifest. If you choose an uplifting, grateful attitude and look for the best in everyone, even your estranged ex, you may be surprised to discover that the atmosphere becomes more positive. Achieve the Three Liberations — Shift out of patterns that interfere with your ability to connect with yourself and others. Most important here is to let go of taking anything personally, refrain from the temptation to complain or commiserate and suspend your automatic judgments of everyone and everything. This liberates way more energy to enjoy the food, gifts, and all your relatives.

5 Live Oak Drive (the old fire station) Wrightsville Beach NC 28480 910.679.8028 • www.sproutyoga.net

Balance Energy Exchange — Monitor the balance of energy in relationships and adjust when necessary.

Be a RARE Listener — Improve your real listening skills right now. The Holidays are a wonderful time to practice ‘empathic listening.’

Turn Friction into Momentum — Transform your approach to conflict Unlike the football game you may be watching, a conflict isn’t a contest. It’s an opportunity to find creative solutions to meet your needs and the needs of others. Think creatively about new ways to relate to the people who get on your nerves. v Michael J. Gelb has pioneered the fields of creative thinking, accelerated learning, and innovative leadership. He leads seminars for organizations such as DuPont, Merck, Microsoft, Nike, and YPO. He also teaches at the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business and the London Business School. He is also the author of How to Think Like Leonardo da Vinci and several other bestsellers. His website is www.MichaelGelb.com.

It’s that Holiday season again! Come visit us at Cold Culture and give all of our non-fat Holiday flavors a try! Check us out on Facebook

250 Racine Drive Suite # 12 910-523-5278

Drop-In Child Care & After School Center

Drop In Care, After School Center with free van service and homework help, Drop-In Summer Camps, affordable rates, friendly & attentive staff. Children ages 12 months and up. Open at 7:45 M-F.

7946 Market Street #200 Wilmington, NC 28411

910-319-7879 www.PNPlayhouse.com

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Wilmington Parent | December 2017 | 21

SPECIAL SECTION: Welcome the Holidays

Transcend Fixations — Move beyond the habits that limit your freedom to connect and respond intelligently and effectively, to different types of people. When we realize that most of people’s behaviors are hardwired expressions of their personality typology it’s much easier to be compassionate and not take things personally.

SPROUT Art & Yoga sessions for December will focus on creating thoughtful gifts for OTHERS, hand painting ornaments, and exploring printmaking techniques to make wrapping paper. December 5, 7, 12, and 14

HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE

SPECIAL SECTION: Welcome the Holidays

VISIT US DURING THE HOLIDAYS! All college students get 10% off. 10% Senior and Military discount! Check us out on Facebook. Cold Culture Frozen Yogurt 205 racine Drive Suite #12 910-523-5278

PAINT -N-PL CERAM AY ICS LARGEST SELECTION OF CERAMIC PIECES IN THE SOUTHEAST. Great private party room for painting pottery. Complimentary popcorn, animal crackers and gold fish while you paint. Come visit us and paint something you will cherish forever! Come by and purchase a gift certificate for the Holidays! Paint-n-Play 1021 South Kerr Ave. Wilmington, NC 28403 910-452-7177

GIVE THE GIFT OF THE LITTLE GYM THIS HOLIDAY SEASON! Stop by today to purchase Gift Cards! The Little Gym of Wilmington (910) 799-3771 • www.tlgwilmingtonnc.com

22 | December 2017 | Wilmington Parent

SPROUT YOGA & ART FOR KIDS Art & Yoga sessions for December will focus on creating thoughtful gifts for OTHERS, hand painting ornaments, and exploring printmaking techniques to make wrapping paper. We will also practice yoga techniques to learn how to keep calm during the hectic holiday season. December 5, 7, 12, and 14. 3:00*- 4:30. Cost is $35/day *WBS student pick up still available Stay tuned to our website for more opportunities in December and January! Sprout Yoga & Art for Kids 5 Live Oak Drive, Wrightsville Beach 28480 sproutyogaforkids@gmail.com 910-679-8028 • www.sproutyoga.netSPROUT

HELP A CHILD IN NEED EXPERIENCE THE HOPE AND JOY OF CHRISTMAS. Simply sponsor an “Angel” from any of The Salvation Army Angel Trees; purchasese your gifts and return them before Dec. 13 to insure that child will have a Merry Christmas. For more information please call 910-443-8513.

PORTER’S NECK PLAY HOUSE Give the perfect gift to your favorite family this Holiday Season. Gift certificates now available at Porter’s Neck Play House. Porter’s Neck Play House 7946 Market St #200 Wilmington NC 28411 910-319-7879 www.PNPlayhouse.com

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HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE

COME IN TO CGA TO ORDER GYMNASTICS MATS, BARS, AND BALANCE BEAMS FOR AT HOME PRACTICE! When you order with us, there is no shipping charge! All items delivered to CGA for pick up in time for the holidays. 3529 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 910-796-1896 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com

GIVE THE GIFT OF ULTIMATE FUN THIS HOLIDAY SEASON! Jungle Rapids 2018 Water Park Season Passes are now on sale at the lowest rate of the season! Gift Certificates also available! Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park 5320 Oleander Drive Wilmington, NC 28403 910-791-0888 www.junglerapids.com

WE’VE MOVED TO BE MORE CONVENIENT FOR YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING NEEDS! We have a variety of unique gift ideas for mom, baby, and toddler! Shop new location in New Centre Commons right next to Target. The Bump and Beyond 4217 New Centre Drive 910-769-6443 info@thebumpandbeyond.com www.thebumpandbeyond.com

JOIN TUTU SCHOOL FOR AN ADVENTURE TO THE LAND OF SWEETS! While you wrap up last-minute holiday errands, have your little dancer join us for a Nutcracker themed mini-camp. Learn the Nutcracker Story, dance with the Sugar Plum Fairy, make a magic wand, and receive a special gift! Open to children 2 to 8 years old. $40 per student. Thursday December 21st, 1:00-4:00pm Friday December 22nd, 9:00am-12:00pm Tutu School Wilmington 242 Princess Street madeline@tutuschoolwilmington.com 910-210-6155 • tutuschoolwilmington.com

GIVE THE GIFT OF REST, RELAXATION, AND REJUVENATION THIS HOLIDAY SEASON! Give the gift of rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation this holiday season with private beach yoga sessions, classes, and parties offered by Live Slow Yoga. There is no better way to experience an island retreat during the busy holiday. Private Single 60-Minute Session: $75. Private Group 60-Minute Session: $75 + $5 per additional person. Live Slow Surf & Yoga Wrightsville Beach, NC Kdonovan@LiveSlow.com (203) 494-7684 • www.LiveSlow.com

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Wilmington Parent | December 2017 | 23

SPECIAL SECTION: Welcome the Holidays

GIVE THE GIFT OF CLEAR VISION TO YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON! Wilmington Eye is excited to announce that pediatric ophthalmology is back in the Cape Fear region! Dr. Melissa Shipley, a fellowship-trained pediatric ophthalmologist, joins our practice on January 2, 2018. Please call 910.763.3601 to schedule an appointment. Visit us online at www.wilmingtoneye.com. Wilmington Eye 1729 New Hanover Medical Park Drive 910-763-3601 • WilmingtonEye.com

HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE

SPECIAL SECTION: Welcome the Holidays

WILMINGTON SCHOOL OF BALLET & DANCE Wilmington School of Ballet & Dance teaches a love of dance from princess ballet to professional training. Little ones learn in a magical princess & pirate class. Older students can train professionally or recreationally. All students are thrilled with our many dance performance opportunities. Come try a free class and be a part of our dance family. Ballet, Tap, Jazz, & Tumble classes from 2 1/2 years old and up 1/2 off a 100.00 gift certificate for any new student Wilmington School of Ballet 2250 Shipyard Blvd. Unit 12 Wilmington, NC 28403 910-794-9590

CONTACT US FOR GIFT CERTIFICATES FOR UPCOMING PROGRAMS. Wilmington Basketball Center 7207 Ogden Business Lane 910 233-7468 wbcinc.org • info@wbcinc.org

GIVE THE GIFT OF MEMBERSHIP

Surprise your family with a Family Membership to the N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Enjoy unlimited free admission for one full year at all three North Carolina Aquariums. Family memberships receive free admission for two adults named on the card and their children or grandchildren under the age of 18. As an added bonus members receive free or discounted admission to more than 150 zoos and aquariums around the country including the NC Zoo. Call us for details 800-832-FISH (3474) or go online and join today! www.ncaquariums.com/membership

24 | December 2017 | Wilmington Parent

Who Controls Your

J OY?

By Alexis Marie he song lyrics in “Joy to the World” and “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” say it all. Christmas is meant to be a season of cheer and happiness. Funnily enough, though, we women sometimes look for this feeling of joy in all the wrong places. Who else has a mental checklist that sounds something like this: • Find the perfect holiday party dress that disguises certain key areas • Shrink said key areas by hitting the gym and pounding back smoothies • Buy memorable gifts for family and twenty close friends • Arrive extra early to the kids Christmas concert to get the best seats • Hunt for a hilarious present for the office’s Christmas gift exchange • Pull out all the decorations and turn the house into a winter wonderland • With a list like this, how does a girl not burn-out by January? I confess: Sometimes I don’t feel all that joyful around the holidays. It is a hectic time of year. I often find myself looking to external events, people and dates on the calendar to drum-up my holiday cheer. It’s all too easy to let my joy slip-in second place after my to-do list. I remember the day I had my “joy epiphany.” It was the same day my daughter had hers. Hannah was a month away from turning seven-years-old. It was early autumn and we were canoeing as a family, surrounded by nature splashed with fall colors, listening to the calming swoosh of water as our craft glided through the lake at Elk Island National Park. Whatever Hannah was complaining about, amidst all that peaceful beauty, I cannot say – but I had had enough. “This is the worst day ever,” Hannah complained. “I am NOT happy.” That was it. I felt the hot mama-rage rise in my chest and I turned quickly on my seat in the canoe to look my girl in the eyes. I did not think, I just spoke. “WHO CONTROLS YOUR JOY?” Either the wobbling boat or my question halted her, mid-whine. She did not respond. “Who controls your joy?” I asked her again. Her eyes searched the sky for an answer. She looked at me with a blank face. “You do!” I threw my hands, and my paddle, up in the air. “You control your joy, Hannah! Not me or your dad or your friends or anyone or anything else – it’s you. You are the only one who can make yourself happy.” It wasn’t until the words were out of my mouth that I knew they were also true for me. Since that day in the boat, the question, “Who controls your joy?” has become my personal mantra, not to mention a guiding force in our family. I ask the question of my children. My husband asks if of me. And vice versa. The words cause us to pause, reflect and refocus. Maybe you are not your ideal dress size, or your husband doesn’t chip in enough around the house, or your kids can be a royal pain. Or maybe you are struggling with the truly tough stuff of life, like celebrating Christmas without a job or a stable home. At the same time as we experiencing these real and heavy emotions, and while we may feel pulled down by the weight of the holidays, there is one thing that is within our control. It is our JOY. I often ask myself, “Who controls your joy, Alexis Marie?” This question has caused me to re-think my checklist. Now I focus on: • Doing the things that make me happy instead of being a people-pleaser • Caring more about people than I do about possessions and appearances • Celebrating who I am, just the way I am • Feeling empowered that I can control my response to anything life brings my way • Being content that I cannot do everything, and that is okay • Enjoying the moment because life is short and joy cannot wait v

Alexis Marie Chute is an award-winning writer, artist and filmmaker and has set herself apart for her bereavement advocacy. She is a leading expert in creativity and healing. She has become an advocate in supporting and educating others on how to process their grief in creative and authentic ways, promoting healing through the arts and sharing stories in community.

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PHILLIPS ORTHODONTICS

Dr. Warren Phillips Board Certified Orthodontist

Christmas All Around the World

hristmas is a holiday celebrated all around the world. The religious significance of the holiday is the celebration of the birth of Jesus, while the secular festivities involve a gift-giving character who brings presents and treats to good children. Let’s take a look at some of the most interesting ways Christmas is celebrated all around the world. service is very popular. People of all faiths decorate their homes and gardens with star-shaped paper lanterns and some set up nativity scenes. Father Christmas is the one who brings presents to children from a horse and cart. Special Christmas cakes and sweets such as newries and kulkuls are baked and open houses abound.

In Sweden St. Lucia’s day is celebrated on December 13th. St. Lucia was a Christian martyr from 304 AD known for secretly taking food to persecuted Christians in the catacombs of Rome. Today young girls dress in white dresses with a red sash, and wear a crown of lights to help Lucia find her way. Special Lucia Day buns called Lussekatts are served. Then on Christmas Eve a huge buffet known as julbord is eaten in courses. Glogg, a sweet mulled wine, and coffee are favorite drinks. Gifts are brought by small gnomes called jultomten.

Complimentary consultations for patients of all ages Offering traditional braces and Invisalign Accepting Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) funds Working with your budget to provide in-house interest-free payment plans 2606 New Village Way Wilmington, NC

910.392.5773 www.wilmingtonbraces.com

In New Zealand, Families are often celebrating their summer holidays by camping or staying at the beach. The Christmas meal is barbecued meats or seafood. Desserts such as hot fruit pudding or meringues are served. Pavlova is a favorite dessert. Presents are opened on Christmas day before the special lunch.

In Russia Christmas is celebrated by the Orthodox Church. Once banned by the communist regime, Christmas is again celebrated with special church services, and wonderful meat and cabbage pies called pirogi and meat dumplings known as pelmeni. A porridge, kutya, is served along with honey and poppy seeds to bring happiness, success and peace. Children carry a star and go house to house in the cold winter snows singing carols and receiving sweets. Children love to hear about the ways other children celebrate. Why not share some of this information in your holiday discussions? You may even want to include some of the foods or traditions in your own family festivities. Happy Holidays! v Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and freelance writer living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. She travels to India, working with orphanages and schools.

Swedish St. Lucia Buns Ingredients 1 cup milk ¼ t. saffron ½ cup butter 4 ½ cups flour 1 T. yeast granules ½ cup potato flour or flakes 1 ½ t. salt 1/3 cup sugar 3 large eggs (one separated) 1 t. vanilla Glaze 1 egg white + 1 T. water Pearl sugar Sultana raisins (golden)

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Directions In a saucepan heat the milk and saffron. Remove from heat and add butter. Cool to lukewarm. In a bowl whisk yeast, flours, salt and sugar. Separate one egg and save the white. Pour milk over the dry ingredients, add two eggs plus the extra yolk. Mix well and knead until smoothe. Allow to rise one hour, deflate and cut into twelve pieces. Form dough into S shapes and let rise another 30 minutes. Apply glaze and bake at 375 degrees for 18-20 minutes.

We've moved to be more convenient for your holiday shopping needs! We have a variety of unique gift ideas for mom, baby, and toddler! Shop our new location in New Centre Commons right next to Target.

The Bump & Beyond Wilmington's premiere mother, child, and baby boutique. #ShopLearnGrow 4217 New Centre Drive 910-769-6443 www.thebumpandbeyond.com Wilmington Parent | December 2017 | 25

SPECIAL SECTION: Welcome the Holidays

In India Christmas is celebrated on December 25th with church services for believers. A midnight

"We Find Smiles"

YOUR HEALTH

HOLIDAY SPICES FOR GOOD HEALTH

he holidays are here, and we are all getting ready to head into the kitchen to make that favorite meal. Most of us associate holiday food with overindulgence and sneaking in ingredients that we would not normally eat. Thankfully, some holiday dishes are actually loaded with healthy ingredients. Many of the spices used around the holidays have known health benefits and should be enjoyed this holiday season.

Cinnamon

Nutmeg

Pumpkin pie, sweet potato soufflĂŠ and many other holiday desserts are home to this aromatic spice. Cinnamon is best known for its warming smell and helps us identify the arrival of the holiday season. Cinnamon has a number of health benefits, many of them stemming from compounds in cinnamon oil. Cinnamon has been found to contain a high level of manganese, a mineral important in blood sugar regulation. In fact, cinnamon has been shown to lower glucose and lipid levels in diabetics.

Nutmeg is a high mineral spice, containing magnesium, potassium and zinc. It has been used as a brain booster, since two compounds derived from nutmeg, myristicin and macelignan, have been found to balance neural pathways and may be able to improve focus. The rich magnesium content of nutmeg has also been found to help with relaxation and sleep. Too many holiday sweets? Try using the essential oil to help boost focus.

Ginger

Cloves

One of the best known digestive aids, ginger contains the active compound gingerol, which has been shown to help indigestion, nausea and vomiting. This same compound also has anti-inflammatory properties, assisting in relief of joint pain and inflammation. Fresh ginger contains more active gingerol than dried ginger and can be kept in the fridge for up to three weeks or in the freezer for as long as six months. Add grated or sliced fresh ginger to your teas, sweets and stews to lower your inflammatory load this holiday season.

These hard little buds with a sharp end make a tasty addition to hams or mulled cider with their sweet, penetrating flavor. Cloveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most important ingredient is an essential oil called eugenol. Plus, cloves are rich in potassium, sodium, phosphorus, iron, manganese, dietary fiber, iodine, vitamins K and C, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium and magnesium. Being a natural antiseptic, cloves are very helpful in getting rid of bad breath. Cloves can also relieve nausea due to their aromatic and soothing properties. They can even be used to treat pregnancy-related nausea and morning sickness. In addition, the essential oils in cloves are highly effective in reducing inflammation and killing bacteria in the stomach to help keep stomach infections at bay.

Star Anise The health benefits of star anise are traced back to the compound shikimic acid, which resembles the drug oseltamivir, used to fight the flu. Star anise has anti fungal and anticandida properties as well. Star anise is often used to flavor teas and desserts, while the essential oil is used in many perfumes. Consider adding this aromatic spice to your favorite holiday dishes to balance your sugar load and risk for Candida, a yeast that naturally occurs in our microbiome, but can get out of balance

Cardamom Both a digestive aid and an antiseptic, the essential oil of cardamom is one of the few spices that has high amounts of iron and manganese. The oil of cardamom can be used topically to heal infections and as an anesthetic. In many countries, the entire pod of cardamom was boiled with ginger and other spices to relieve digestive discomfort after dinner.

Dr. Taz MD, Creator of Superwomen, Power Kids and Healthy Families. Best selling Author, Integrative Health Expert, Prevention/Wellness

26 | December 2017 | Wilmington Parent

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FIT FAMILY

Strong Arms for the Holidays My favorite part of the body and the area that most people will see are the shoulders! The good part about sculpting strong shoulders is that you don’t need heavy weight, a gym or any fancy equipment. If you have dumbbells in the house or go to a gym, fantastic! But if you don’t, grab water bottles, or anything with a bit of weight that you can hold in your hands. Side Lateral Raises - start with weight in front of your thighs and lift out to the side. Do not lift the weights past your shoulders and the weights should be in your peripheral vision, a V shape, not hyper-extended out to the side. Front Raises - take the weights and extend them out to the front. Again, don’t lift higher than shoulder height. Elbows should not be locked but keep arms straight. Legs should be a few inches apart for stability. Seated Shoulder Presses - sit on a back supported chair and press the weights above your head. Palms should be facing out. This is great for your core too as sitting engages it a bit more. Your back is always important to train and build muscle on. All sorts of rowing exercises are excellent for building muscle in your back. Back exercises include: Arm Row 1 - place a leg up, knee on bench (or ottoman or chair at home), leaning forward, row with the dumbbell in the opposite hand. You never want to be leaning over - chest should be pointed out and butt should be out. Good form is very important! Arm Row 2 - Bend your knees, push chest out and butt back, and row both arms simultaneously. Arms should come down all the way, and back up to a rowing motion. Do not round back or bend over. Renegade Row - Get into a push-up position with hands holding dumbbells and row. This is great core work as well while building muscles in your back. Perform 3-5 sets of 10-15 reps for all of these. It’s important to always add progression to your workouts. So if you can only do 3 sets of 10 reps the first time, aim for 11 reps the 2nd time! When you reach a 12 reps, it’s time to move on to 4 sets! We must always push our muscles out of their comfort zones! Remember, muscles grow when they are fed and rested. So be sure to include a healthy, nutritious diet into your lifestyle so you can reap all the benefits!

Colorful Oatmeal Oatmeal is the perfect breakfast for these cold mornings, and this might be a fun way to get your little ones to eat a healthy breakfast before school. Whether the oatmeal is pink, blue, green, or orange, chances are what’s pleasing to the eye will also be good for their taste buds. ColorKitchen’s has found a way to use colors that aren’t loaded with artificial dyes (Red40, Blue Lake, Yellow 5) that are known to cause behavioral reactions in some children. This Bend, Oregon company started by an artist with a passion for color, is the first to introduce plant based powdered food dyes that when mixed with water can create vibrant hues that will add color to any dessert. ColorKitchen’s plant colors aren’t just artificial dye-free. They’re also vegan, gluten-free, and Non-GMO. The colors are generated from spirulina, turmeric, and beets. Check them out at www.colorkitchenfoods.com.

William H. Craig Race for Life 5K The William H Craig 5K is the end of the season celebration 5k race for Girls on the Run, Heart & Sole, and STRIDE participants. begins and ends at Legion Stadium on December 9th at 8am. Come join over 500 boys and girls, grades 3rd-8th, as they celebrate their accomplishments of the season! A fun and festive atmosphere, William H Craig Race for Life 5K celebrates friends, family and wellness! Public runners are welcome as this race provides scholarships to children who need assistance to participate in the Girls on the Run and STRIDE programs. Established to honor the legacy of Dr. Bill Craig and his many contributions to the community. Funds from this event will provide financial support for Girls on the Run, STRIDE, Victory Junction Gang and others. Register at www.runsignup.com.

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Wilmington Parent | December 2017 | 27

SCHOOL NOTES

School’s Out! NEW HANOVER COUNTY: Traditional Schools: 12/20 - Half Day for Students 12/21-29 - No School, Holiday Year Round Schools: 12/15 - Half Day for Students 12/18-29 - Intersession and Holidays CFCI Charter School: 12/18-29 - No School, Holiday Isaac Bear ECHS: 12/18 - No School, Teacher Workday 12/19-29 - No School, Holiday Wilmington Early College HS 12/18 - No School, Teacher Workday 12/19-29 - No School, Holiday BRUNSWICK: Traditional Schools: 12/20 - Half Day for Students 12/21-29 - No School, Holiday Year Round Schools: 12/20 - Half Day for Students 12/21-29 - No School, Holiday Early College High School: 12/19 - Half Day for Students 12/20-29 - No School, Holiday PENDER: Traditional Schools: 12/21-29 - No School, Holiday Penderlea: 12/18-29 - No School, Holiday Pender Early College HS: 12/18-29 - No School, Holiday

Visit www.nhcs.net, www.co.brunswick.k12.nc.us or www.pendercountyschools.net for more information. 28 | December 2017 | Wilmington Parent

Wilmington Christian Academy Raises Money for Going Beyond the Pink The faculty, staff and students at Wilmington Christian Academy recently presented a check totaling $5,600 to Joy Wade & Kara Kenan, Directors of Going Beyond the Pink. The money was raised through WCA’s 5th Annual “Patriots for Pink” Volleyball/Soccer games, held in September. In just five short years of hosting “Patriots for Pink”, the WCA family has helped to raise a grand total of $20,980 to help local men and women diagnosed with breast cancer. Students from Wilmington Christian Academy also volunteer monthly at the local Going Beyond the Pink office, emphasizing their commitment to support local breast cancer patients not only financially, but by serving the organization through volunteer hours. The WCA Patriot family is honored to partner with Going Beyond the Pink as they seek to support local breast cancer heroes together!

The Hill School of Wilmington Offers Free Technology Workshop The Hill School of Wilmington will hold a free public workshop on Wednesday, December 6 at 6:00 pm, for parents and educators. The workshop, which will be held at Castle Branch/ Tek Mountain, is designed to help weed through the hundreds of apps and devices promoted to serve student learning. A practical approach to proven strategies and tools will be introduced and demonstrated. In addition, ideas on ways to take the stress out of overwhelming assignments, and help students utilize their individual strengths will be presented. Smart phones and tablets are welcome so ideas and strategies can be recorded with typed notes, an audio recording, a video, or a picture. The Hill School of Wilmington is also planning two additional workshops scheduled for Winter of 2018. These workshops are free and open to the public, but participants must register at www.hillschoolofwilmington.org. The Hill School of Wilmington is a nonprofit school specifically designed to address the needs of students with learning differences.

St. Mary Catholic School Celebrates 148 Years with a Fresh New Face In 1869, the Sisters of Mercy opened North Carolina’s first Catholic school. St. Mary School, in the heart of Wilmington’s historic district, is older than the telephone, the record player, the light bulb and Coca-Cola! This year marks 148 years of academic excellence for the Port City’s original school. Now, how’s that for history?! What started with a vision, determination and just 36 students, has today grown to an enrollment of more than 200 serving preschool through eighth grades. The campus, which stretches across a city-block, includes The Basilica Shrine of St. Mary Church, the rectory, Centro Santa Maria, the Lower School Building, the Tileston Complex and grounds. It’s Time For A Fresh Face Another milestone year under St. Mary’s belt means cause for celebration. Over the summer a new brand and new logo was born to represent the school. The updated logo, encased in a shield, is rooted by the cross to highlight the school’s Catholic Christian values. It is anchored by “Lively” the Falcon, the school’s mascot, and the founding year and original symbol, the fleur-de-lis. Happy Birthday, St. Mary School! We’re looking forward to 148 more years!

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PEANUT GALLERY

Elizabeth T. 12/15 • 10yo

Gemma T. 12/6 • 1yo

Mabreigh 12/26 • 2yo

Simone S.

12/26 • 14yo

Kyeran G. 11/29 • 6yo

Andrew C. 12/28 • 7yo

Mathew H. Jr. 12/18 • 9yo

Andre B. 12/27 • 6yo

Summer G. 11/21 • 10yo

Saylor 11/22 • 4yo

DOES YOUR CHILD OR GRANDCHILD HAVE A BIRTHDAY IN JANUARY? Honor them by having their photo published in Wilmington Parent. Here's how: e-mail image (size not to exceed 1mb) to birthday@wilmingtonparent.com. Deadline for publication: 12/12. We have a limited number of spots, so if you sent your child’s picture and do not see it this issue, please check back next month! www.wilmingtonparent.com

Wilmington Parent | December 2017 | 29