Lane County MOM | Dec 2023 / Jan 2024

real | local | moms

COVER MOM TIFFANY COVEN

since 2005

Lane County | Dec 2023 / Jan 2024

MOMS LOVE LOCAL

WINTER BAKING

Your Y is your place for family fun, and your kid’s place for growth and learning!

JOIN NOW

FIND YOUR FUN FIND YOUR Y

Eugene Family YMCA | 600 E. 24th Ave. | eugeneymca.org | 541.686.9622 2 mommag.com

It’s what‘s inside that counts

Winter baking

22

Meet the MOM experts ... 4

Stocking stuffers

26

They know what they’re

Cover MOM: Tiffany Coven....................14

talking about.

This mom gets real.

Because I said so............... 5

Winter baking..................22

MOM’s favorite local places

28

Stocking stuffers.............26 MOM’s favorite local places.......................28

A message from MOM

More ways to love your MOM mommag.com facebook.com/ lovemommag info@mommag.com We love hearing from you. Email us with feedback, story ideas or nominations.

Cover MOM

14

Photos by Fremouw Photography

Advertise today Want to get the word out about your business?

Contact Linda Blair at linda@mommag.com mommag.com 3

meet the

experts

[They know what they’re talking about]

Motherhood Journey to Motherhood with Kelly Rickman, page 6

Support Support for Families with Audrey Benson, page 10

Vacation Vacation MOM with Donnita Bassinger, CTC, MCC, page 12

4 mommag.com

Smile

Pets

Something to Smile About with Dr. Erin Estep, page 7

Pets are Family with Dr. Erica Harmon, page 20

Say Cheese

Focus

Say Cheese with Dr. Brad Chvatal, page 8

Focus on MOM with Dr. David Hackett, page 25

Beyond the Bin Beyond the Bin with Kelly Bell, page 9

Because I said so!

Publisher Matthew Nelson, Active Media, Inc PO Box 672, Aurora OR 97002-0672 info@activemediausa.com 503-825-2100 Editor-in-Chief Managing Director Audrey Meier DeKam audrey@mommag.com Mid-Valley & Lane County Business Development Manager Linda Blair linda@mommag.com 541-231-7250 Salem Advertising Representatives Kim Leighty kim.leighty@mommag.com 503-510-9036 Tina Toney tina@activemediausa.com 503-991-4547 Designer Sean Carver sean@activemediausa.com

MOM Magazine is sustainably delivered throughout the community thanks to pedalersexpress.com TM

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Inclusion in the magazine does not constitute endorsement of information, products or services.

The inky embrace of January awaits us There are times of the year that can take many moms to the brink. There’s May, with its end-of-school-year and registerfor-all-the-annual-things chaos. Then September and October, which have a gazillion kids’ birthday parties, plus back-to-school and fall sports. But do any of these compare with December?

If you celebrate Christmas, this month is the Mt. Everest of Motherhood. The challenge is the extra work it brings in addition to regular life of taking care of kids, going to work and keeping the house from falling down upon you. Most schools are out for two weeks, so good luck finding childcare and patching together coverage at work. Kids still need meals, socks, nail trims, permission slips signed…the house is its usual swirl of groceries, dishes and laundry. The holidays become an unpaid, part time job. Mental load, anyone?

Before kids, my husband and I hastily threw a string of lights around our front door, decorated a small potted tree and called it Christmas. Then came kids, and oh, how the allure to dazzle them is strong.

You must resist some of this to keep yourself sane. Two things that have helped me: Never starting the Elf on a Shelf, because once you start that tradition you are locked into it for at least a decade. And don’t stress about wrapping kids’ presents to look photoshoot ready. You’ve seen their artwork; they don’t care if the barcode on the box is covered or not.

cause we all know it’s more than immediate family — it's inlaws, teachers, neighbors and so on. Plus the surprise events, like spirit days, cookie exchanges and old pals blowing through town. A few moms I know seem to breeze through the holidays, which makes me wonder what exactly are they sipping out of that giant stainless tumbler?

Cut yourself a break: take the kids out for dinner to one of the places in our annual MOMs Love Local article in this issue. We have an article on stocking stuffer ideas, too, in case your brain is fried. We wish you peace this season, which means your tape doesn’t run out, your childcare doesn’t bail and no one gets the crud. Your unpaid seasonal part time job will be over soon, and the inky embrace of January awaits us.

Cheers, Audrey Meier DeKam Editor-in-Chief

Still, this barely takes the edge off the shopping, cooking and organizing. I shop for an average of 18 different entities be-

mommag.com 5

journey to motherhood

The fourth trimester The fourth trimester is the 12 weeks after giving birth, and it is a tender, vulnerable time of establishing a thriving environment for babies and parents.

Many new moms are surprised to learn that the fourth trimester is just as important as the first three in terms of their own health. The new little one gets much of the focus, but mom’s healing and breastfeeding body needs specific care.

As midwives, we provide healthcare to both mom and baby.

The first week of caring for a newborn at home can be exhausting, especially for moms who are still very much postpartum. That’s why for the first week after you deliver, we come to your home to provide care. Our team will see you in your home several times within the first week for baby weight checks, lactation support and your own health and healing, as well as provide encouragement and connection with local resources.

After the first week of home visits, we see you at the birth center at two, four and six weeks, and beyond, with careful attention to your unique needs. We also offer a free drop-in group called Milky Weigh Wednesdays, for parents and newborns seeking lactation support, weigh-ins for baby and much-needed connection with others.

We partner with you to guide your physical recovery, care and feeding of your infant, mental health and so much more.

Our holistic approach not only looks after the physical health and safety of mom and baby, but attends to the emotional and social needs of a new mom and their family.

The first precious months with a newborn bring a range of emotions, growth and needs for both you and your baby. At Oregon Birth and Wellness, we offer comprehensive postpartum care that sets the stage for lifelong health and wellbeing.

Kelly Rickman, CNM, DNP oregonbirthandwellness.org 541-515-6556 890 Beltline Road in Springfield

6 mommag.com

Brought to you by:

something to smile about

Dental sealants The chewing surfaces of permanent molars have pits and grooves that can trap plaque and bits of food. Even a toothbrush bristle is too big to reach inside these tiny grooves. But we’re lucky to have a protective solution: dental sealants.

A dental sealant is a plastic material that is put on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The sealant material flows into the pits and grooves on those surfaces and acts like a barrier, protecting enamel by “sealing out” bacteria and food particles. While sealants are not a replacement for good brushing and flossing, they can help prevent cavities on the chewing surfaces of molars by up to 80%.

Sealing a tooth is fast and painless, and the sealant can last several years before they need to be reapplied. Ask your dentist if sealants will help your child.

Brought to you by: Dr. Erin Estep is a board-certified pediatric dentist who owns Treehouse Kids Dentist in Springfield. She and her staff are committed to making sure your child has an amazing, safe, memorable dental experience.

treehousekidsdental.com 1611 J street Springfield, OR 541-515-6631 office@treehousekidsdental.com

Open Your Heart & Your Home No Child Should Be Alone for the Holidays— Become a Foster Parent Today.

• Full Support Through Licensing and Placement • Free Training

• Stipend Upon Licensing

• Long-Term Placements Encouraged

Scan the QR Code or Call For More Information (541) 205-9923 mommag.com 7

say cheese Mastering braces-friendly brushing One of the biggest concerns we hear from moms of children going into braces is that their child is not going to take good enough care of them. With a little extra attention and diligence, your child can make it through braces with a perfect, healthy smile.

While braces have lots of nooks and crannies around them, they actually protect the teeth where they are placed. But cleaning around them is super important.

Here’s a great plan for that: Dry brushing: After a meal (likely at dinnertime), grab a dry (no toothpaste) toothbrush and loosen food particles and plaque around the braces. I encourage parents to help with this part. Find a spot in the house with a bright light and wiggle that toothbrush all around. Without toothpaste foaming up, you’ll be able to see everything that needs attention.

(541) 683-8490 • EugeneBraces.com 1400 Valley River Drive, 240, Eugene 1130 E. Main Street, Cottage Grove 2215 Willamette Street, Ste. B, Eugene

Join a community focused on healthy, active youth.

Toothpaste time: After the dry brushing, have your child rinse with water and then brush with a fluoridated toothpaste to help strengthen enamel. I like Colgate Total as it also has an antigingivitis agent, too.

Waterpik magic: Sometimes a Waterpik can be helpful to get the hard-to-reach spots. Its gentle water stream cleans between braces, wires, and gums — it’s like a soft pressure washer for the teeth and braces.

Flossing made easy: Flossing with braces can be challenging. Using floss threaders, interdental brushes, or orthodontic floss can make it easier. Turn flossing into a family affair, sharing stories and bonding over oral hygiene.

With these simple steps and a little more attention, you can help your child keep their braces and teeth shiny and healthy.

Brought to you by:

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Become a Master Recycler Some of us want to recycle everything we can, including the smallest plastic bottle caps. Taking the Waste Wise Lane County Master Recycler class is a great way to better understand what's recyclable and what isn't.

Master Recycler class students explore the complexities of waste management and recycling. With the knowledge you gain, you’ll be able to: • Offer friendly recycling help to others • Generate interest and enthusiasm for the other Rs, such as Reduce and Reuse • Encourage others to adopt lower consumption lifestyles so that fewer materials enter our lives that cannot be reused or recycled • Share awareness about the true cost of convenience and the burden disposable items place on our environment Master Recyclers provide accurate recycling information and resources so that materials can be recycled in our community at the highest rate possible with the least amount of contamination for the best end use. And when that often-asked question comes up — Can this be recycled? — you’ll be an expert in the know.

Kelly Bell is the Waste Wise Lane County Master Recycler Program Coordinator, a position she has held since 2008.

Brought to you by:

Join the Master Recycler Community Enrollment is open for the Winter 2024 Waste Wise Lane County Master Recycler Class starting in January. Visit lanecountyor.gov/wastewise-masterrecyclers to download an application.

WasteWise Lane County empowers residents and businesses with resources to reduce waste and live sustainably.

WasteWiseLaneCounty

@wastewiselanecounty

Eugene Montessori School Educating for a better world since 1962.

A quality Montessori education for children 3 through kindergarten. The individualized curriculum includes music and P.E., snacks and a wholesome hot lunch.

Call for a tour!

Eugene Montessori School 2255 Oakmont Way 541.345.7124 eugenemontessorischool.com

mommag.com 9

support for family

The unspoken language of behavior Behavior is a powerful form of communication, especially in individuals who may have difficulty expressing themselves through words. However, sometimes challenging behavior can leave us scratching our heads as to why the behavior is occurring.

Behavior is a language worth decoding. Let’s look at the four most common functions of behavior: Attention Positive or negative, attention is attention. If you notice your child acting out when they’re not getting enough oneon-one time or putting on a show to impress you or their teacher, they might be craving more of that spotlight.

Escape In this case, a behavior is occurring in order to escape a demand. Your child might suddenly develop some impressive ninja skills when you ask them to tackle dreaded tasks like tooth-brushing or chores, all in a heroic effort to dodge those less-than-thrilling demands.

Tangible Simply put, the function of tangible behavior is seen when a child wants an item or response. Picture your child’s face and actions when they want more screen time or they’re on a quest for that irresistible sugary snack.

Automatic Some behaviors just feel good for our little ones; it’s their body’s way of giving them a little pick-me-up. For some kids, it might look like stimming, where a physical movement calms their nerves and brings comfort.

Behavior of all kinds is used to convey thoughts, emotions and needs. Taking a step back to examine behaviors can help give caregivers and parents the insight needed to provide alternatives, flexibility or skill-building opportunities to get needs met. It’s worth the work, as a deepening of understanding goes a long way in connecting to a child.

Audrey Benson Behavior Supervisor 922 NW Circle Blvd, Ste 160-112 Corvallis, OR 97330 kidsnw.org | 1.888.360.0360

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Brought to you by: KIDS NW connects families with compassionate caregivers, specially trained in serving individuals with disabilities.

www.FremouwPhotography.com

Livia Fremouw - 541.844.9429 Experienced photographer creating timeless portraits since 2004.

Photographing babies, toddlers, children, high school seniors and families. mommag.com 11

v

Kapalua Nāpili Kā'anapali Lahaina

Pā'ia Wailuku Kahului

Kula

Fire-affected areas closed to the public.

MALAMA MAUI

Makawao

Kihei Waileā Mākena

Hāna Haleakalā National Park

BY DONNITA CAGLE BASSINGER, CTC, MCC

Malama is a Hawaiian word that means to care for, protect and preserve. The phrase Malama Maui represents all that is important as the residents and tourists move forward.

12 mommag.com

M

ANY CONSCIENTIOUS travelers have asked me when it is appropriate to visit Hawai’i again after the recent wildfires.

I recently attended a training program hosted by the Hawaiʻi Visitors Bureau to share information about how visitors can return to Maui and ways we can help the people of Hawaiʻi.

The Islands of Hawaiʻi are some of the most beautiful places on Earth, and the world watched in horror last summer as wildfires

tore through areas on the Island of Maui and Hawaiʻi Island. The fires on Maui caused terrible devastation and loss of life as the beloved town of Lahaina was completely destroyed. Thankfully, the vast majority of Maui was not damaged by the fires, as the affected areas total about 10 square miles on an island of 735 square miles.

The people of Maui rely on tourism for their livelihood and all areas except Lahaina

Photo credit: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority; Pierce M. Myers Photography

are now reopened and ready to welcome visitors.

Visitors are asked to be mindful as they return to Maui and to:

Photo credit: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority; Pierce M. Myers Photography

• Visit with Aloha and compassion • Support local businesses • Consider participating in volunteer opportunities throughout the islands gohawaii.com/voluntourism • Learn about the cultural significance of Lahaina but stay away from the area out of respect • Show grace to the people of Maui and avoid asking them about the fires For travelers visiting other parts of the state, there are six major islands to visit in Hawaiʻi: Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, Maui, and the island of Hawaiʻi. The Hawaiian Islands have so much to offer, with festivals and events year-round. Look at event calendars on the gohawaii.com website to plan your trip around a food festival, a hula contest, holiday parades and more.

Whale watching season is from December to May, and there are boat excursions from all the islands. There are 50 state parks on the Hawaiian Islands and 8 National Parks. Many parks require advance reservations to limit the number of visitors and protect the environment. Do your research and plan ahead to get reservations online as the more popular parks fill up quickly.

Photo credit: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority; Pierce M. Myers Photography

The food and beverages in Hawaiʻi range from food trucks to gourmet restaurants that feature farm-to-table feasts. There are breweries, wineries and distilleries to visit and sample their unique offerings. They are usually located in picturesque settings that invite you to relax and stay a while.

The people of Hawaiʻi know that they must protect their environment and have recently banned the use of sunscreens that can cause damage to the fragile coral reefs and wildlife.

They ask that you don’t bring sunscreen from home and only buy the approved sunscreen after you arrive.

National & State Park Reservations: recreation.gov nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes gostateparks.hawaii.gov To support relief efforts, visit hvcb.org/malama-maui.

It is easy to get to the Hawaiian Islands from Eugene Airport as we can choose from flights on Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Southwest and United.

MEET VACATION MOM

TM

Vacation MOM is brought to you in partnership with Eugene Airport Donnita Bassinger has been visiting the Hawaiian Islands and sending clients there for 40 years, and she would be happy to help plan a special vacation for you. She is a mom of three, living in Eugene where she is active in Scouting and local charities. She looks forward to talking with you about your travel plans.

Contact Donnita at 541-913-5272 @VacationMOMpage

mommag.com 13

Tiffany Coven THIS MOM OF THREE IS ENTERING A NEW PHASE OF LIFE WITH THE ARRIVAL OF THE FIRST GRANDCHILD. HER ADVICE TO MOMS IN THE TRENCHES: ENJOY THE MUDDY CLEATS AND SMELLY JERSEYS, BECAUSE YOU WILL INDEED MISS IT.

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PHOTOS BY: FREMOUW PHOTOGRAPHY

P ROF E S SION: Owner of Burn Boot Camp Eugene and Bend COMMUNI T Y: Eugene PA R T NER: Pat Coven, engineer CHIL DREN: Ashton, age 28; Sawyer, age 22; and Tucker, age 19

Every family has its own traditions, rituals or inside jokes. What are some of yours?

We love to ski/snowboard together. My favorite tradition is riding at Mt. Bachelor on Christmas day. There also has not ever been a birthday celebrated without The Beatles Birthday song being played. My mom played it when I was a kid and I play it every year for my kids no matter how much they hate it.

When did you know you wanted to be a mom?

I don’t remember a time when I didn’t want to be a mom. My little brother was born when I was 6 years old, and I was convinced my parents only had him because I wouldn’t stop bugging them about it. I had my first son when I was 21 years old, and while I can look back now and think that was young, at the time it seemed like the most natural thing in the world. Parenting was always something that came naturally to me. Not that there weren’t challenges.

Tell us about one of your proudest mom moments. There are so many proud moments that come to mind when I think of my boys. The big things, like watching my eldest earn his wings in the Air Force and then go on to become an F-16 pilot. My middle son following his dream of playing football in college and being recognized as a scholar athlete every term, my youngest earning the state championship title in baseball his senior year of high school and starting his own business during the pandemic while he was only 16 are just some of the “social media worthy” highlights.

Family comes first.

All families are unique. Tell us about yours.

I was a single mom for several years prior to marrying my husband Pat. I have immense respect and admiration for single parents.

Those were by far some of the hardest years of my life, but also the most rewarding. Working full time and raising three extremely active boys all by myself was sometimes overwhelming, but I wouldn’t trade those years for anything. I have a special bond with my boys that comes from us all being in the trenches together.

Pat came into our life when my boys were 6, 9 and 16. I had heard all the “horror” stories of blended families and frankly, I wasn’t interested in dating at the time.

If being a single mom isn’t hard enough, dating in your late thirties with three kids at home is truly a challenge. We met at a gym and the rest is history. Pat has completed our family and the love he shares with my boys is truly beautiful. Having a partner that supports my hopes and dreams and loves my children like his own is a gift I am thankful for every day.

Today, my family has grown to include Ashton’s wife Sydney and their child Ryder, as well as Sawyer’s fiancé Kylie.

However, the moments that really make me proud are the times in between. The times that don’t make it on the Instagram grid. They are all confident and compassionate young men with a strong work ethic. When they were little, I spent so much time worrying about whether I was doing enough or what would happen to them if I wasn’t there to support them. I take great pride looking at them now and knowing that they don’t need me at all. It also warms my heart to see them support and love each other.

Now tell us about one of your most humbling mom moments. Once I left the gym with my eldest and middle son and completely forgot the youngest in the daycare. He was only about 2 months old and apparently I forgot that I had three children! mommag.com 15

Tell us about a recent achievement you’re proud of, or a personal passion or talent. I left my stable career as a dental hygienist to follow my passion and open Burn Boot Camp in January of 2020. I had a dream in my heart to bring this amazing community to Eugene.

Then along came the pandemic and our business was closed for over six of the first 12 months we were open and under restrictions for over two years. Everything in my life struggled during this time. My friendships, my family, my physical and mental health, but I refused to quit. I knew as long as I kept working and grinding, I couldn’t lose.

If mom’s not happy, nobody’s happy.

What is the most surprising thing you have found wedged between the sofa cushions or behind a car seat? Not between the sofa cushions or behind the car seat, but I have found jock straps on my kitchen counter more than once.

MOM’s Favorite...

Tell us about your favorite… …words to live by: If it isn’t going to matter in five years it doesn’t deserve your attention now. …binge-worthy podcasts: “How I Built This” by Guy Raz, “The Ed Mylett Show,” by Ed Mylett, and “Dare to Lead” by Brene Brown …way to get out of making dinner: If I mention Thai food for take-out, I can always get out of making dinner. …time-saving app or digital tool: Basecamp

You know you’re a mom when you hear yourself say, “________.” You have to wear pants when you leave the house.

No one works harder than mom.

We know that being a mom is a full-time job.

How do you balance (or not) motherhood, activities, work, volunteering, household responsibilities, and life in general? What sometimes falls through the cracks?

Honestly, if there is anything I have learned over the years it is that something is always falling through the cracks. As a mother, wife, friend, daughter and employer, I am constantly dropping the ball somewhere.

One thing I always make a priority is getting in my daily workout. If I don’t take care of myself, I can’t take care of anybody. The other priority is to always sit down to dinner together. When my kids were all home we did this as often as we could, even if it ended up being really late after sports practice.

Now that it is just Pat and I at home, we still make it a priority.

Tell us about your work or volunteerism outside of the home. I own Burn Boot Camp in Eugene in the Crescent Village neighborhood. We opened in January of 2020. We just started the buildout of Burn Boot Camp in Bend and are projecting to open the spring of 2024.

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Where did you grow up, and how did it influence you? I was raised in Sedona, Arizona. It was a small town where everybody knew everyone else. There is such a strong sense of community and belonging in small towns. I feel that people long for this sense of community, and this is what we strive to bring to Eugene with Burn Boot Camp.

Which good habit do you wish you started earlier? Strength training. I’ve always been physically active, but my generation didn’t know the importance of strength training, especially as we age. I was a “cardio junkie” and loved running. I still love those things, but now I know how strength training helps protect bone health and muscle mass, helps develop better body mechanics, fights chronic disease and boosts energy levels and mood. I wish I had started at a much younger age. And wearing sublock...I would like to tell 18-year-old me to wear sunblock.

What’s your superpower? I raised three boys…Enough said!

What is your least/most favorite household chore? Most favorite is anything with a pressure washer. My husband got me one for Christmas a few years ago and it is my favorite gift ever. Least favorite chore is grocery shopping.

What’s your guilty pleasure (dark chocolate hidden in the pantry, TJ Maxx, daily latte habit)?

Chips and guac What is your greatest extravagance?

Quality workout gear. I wear it every day and there really is a difference between the good stuff and the cheap stuff.

Outside of your family members, who/what inspires you to be better? My members!

Every single day I see them overcome obstacles. Through all different seasons

mommag.com 17

QA MOMs Love Local We love locally owned businesses, restaurants, places and organizations. Share your favorite… …coffee spot: Soko Coffee …restaurant to take the kids: The Wheel Apizza Pub …restaurants for a date night: Marché …take-out, food truck or quick bite: Ta RaTin Thai Cuisine …meetup spot for happy hour: PublicHouse

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of life and for different reasons, I see them showing up for themselves and for each other. We have members who continue to show up to work out in their third trimester, after being diagnosed with chronic disease, after the death of a loved one or going through divorce. Every day they inspire me, they are my “why” to keep doing what I’m doing.

What is something you think everyone should do at least once in their lives? Go on a vacation alone. I have yet to do that. It absolutely terrifies me and it doesn’t even really sound fun, but I think it would be an incredibly freeing and informative experience.

They say that everyone has a book in them.

What’s the title of your book? Overcoming Imposter Syndrome, A Work In Progress

Listen to mom.

Is motherhood what you expected? What surprised you the most? Actually, what has surprised me the most is being a grandparent. You know how when you have your second child, you worry that you will never love them as much as the first, but of course you do. The same thing happened with my grandson. I didn’t think I could possibly love as much as my own child, but oh boy was I wrong. He is absolutely perfect and can do no wrong.

What advice would you give your younger mom self? What do you wish you knew then that you know now? You’re doing a good job. Don’t waste your time on guilt because you are a working mom and can’t be home with them every day, your kids are learning what a strong work ethic is by watching you. It’s okay that not every meal is organic.

You can’t and shouldn’t protect your kids from every disappointment. It may seem

heartbreaking in the moment when they don’t make the soccer team or go through their first break up, but they will grow stronger through it and so will you. You’ve got this and your kids are going to be just fine.

What message would you like to share with other moms? Remember to tell it like it is.

Soak in every moment and don’t sweat the small things. You never know the last time they will let you tuck them into bed, the last time they will hold your hand when crossing the street, the last time they will misprnounce “ice cream funday.” You will miss the hours of sitting on cold bleachers in the rain and the driving back and forth to sports practices, the muddy cleats and the smelly jerseys. Take time to put down your phone and be present with your children. The chores will wait, the text doesn’t need to be answered right away and holidays don’t have to be perfect as long as you are all together.

mommag.com 19

pets are family

Pet safety during the holidays During the winter holidays, there are increased temptations and risks for our pets. It’s also a busy time for many moms, so the last thing you want on your list is a sick pet. Protect your fur-children from these common seasonal dangers...

Avoid giving your pet table scraps as the unfamiliar rich food can cause gastrointestinal upset or pancreatitis. In particular, onions, garlic and raisins (often found in stuffing) are toxic to dogs, and bones can cause intestinal blockage or injury.

Consider separating pets from the Christmas tree or other indoor ornamentation. Glass and plastic ornaments can be broken or eaten, light strands chewed on, trees tipped over, or the basin water ingested. Tinsel is particularly attractive to cats, and when eaten, it can cause an intestinal blockage.

Consider skipping the tinsel if you have cats in your household.

Many pets seek warmth, and during winter, they might cozy up to space heaters or other potentially dangerous sources of heat such as a fireplace.

Ensure these are pet-proofed to avoid risks of burns or accidents.

We often host company over the holidays. Depending on the temperament of your pet, it may be important to give them a safe space to get away from the visitors. Consider setting up a baby gate to keep dogs out of guest rooms where they could potentially rummage through visitors’ suitcases and personal items.

With some advanced planning, your pets will be safe and happy — and ready for adorable family photos.

Brought to you by: Erica Harmon, DVM

Get your tickets online at aquarium.org

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WILVET SOUTH 24/7 urgent care 444 B Street in Springfield wilvetsouth.com

mommag.com 21

Winter baking

Get the kids involved and make the house smell great with these recipes for delicious baked treats.

GINGERBREAD COOKIES

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½

cup butter, softened

½

cup sugar

¼

teaspoon salt

1

egg

½

cup molasses

1

tablespoon white vinegar

3

cups flour

1

teaspoon baking soda

2

teaspoons ground ginger

½

teaspoon cinnamon

½

teaspoon nutmeg

1/4

teaspoon cloves

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Lightly grease a cookie sheet.

Cream together the butter, sugar and salt.

Stir in the egg, molasses and vinegar.

In a separate bowl, blend the flour, baking soda and all the remaining spices. Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture. If the dough gets sticky, refrigerate it for an hour and then roll out on a floured surface to ¼-inch thickness.

Use a glass to create classic round cookies, or use cookie cutters for traditional shapes.

Put on a cookie sheet and bake for about 10 minutes.

Allow the shapes to cool completely before decorating or glazing. A simple glaze of powdered sugar and water works well.

APPLE CINNAMON ROLLS | Courtesy of Bob’s Red Mill Dough

Apple filling

3/4

1/4

cup butter

4

cups peeled and chopped apples

1/2

cup granulated sugar

cup warm milk

7-gram packet active dry yeast

BLUEBERRY COFFEE CAKE

2

eggs

4

cups unbleached white all-purpose flour

1/4

cup brown sugar

1/2

cup sugar

2

teaspoon ground cinnamon

1

teaspoon salt

1

teaspoon lemon juice

1/2

cup butter, softened

1/4

cup butter

1/2

cup butter, softened

Cinnamon sugar filling

Icing

1

cup sugar

3/4

cup brown sugar

4

2

eggs

2

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1

cup milk

teaspoon ground cinnamon

1

teaspoon vanilla

1/4

teaspoon salt

3

cups flour

1/2

cup butter, softened

3

teaspoons baking powder

1

teaspoon salt

1

cup frozen blueberries

2 to 3 tablespoons coarse sugar for topping Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

Cream butter and sugar together, then add eggs, milk and vanilla. In a separate bowl, blend flour, baking powder and salt.

Add dry to wet slowly until flour lumps are gone, but be careful not to overwork the batter.

Spread half of the batter into the baking dish, then add a layer of blueberries on top. Pour the remaining batter on top of the blueberries. Sprinkle coarse sugar over the top.

Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, until an inserted fork comes out clean.

oz cream cheese, softened

1

teaspoon vanilla extract

1

tablespoon milk

Place the warm milk in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let sit for 5 minutes for the yeast to activate. Butter a 9-inch square pan and set aside.

Add the eggs, flour, sugar and salt to the yeast mixture and mix to form a rough dough.

Begin piecing in the soft butter and continue to mix and knead until a smooth and elastic dough forms, about 10 minutes. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover and let sit in a warm place until doubled in size, about 90 minutes. Meanwhile, make the fillings.

Melt the butter in a large sauté pan. Add the chopped apples, sugars and cinnamon and cook until the apples are soft and have released their juices, 5-7 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice. Remove the apples from their cooking liquid and set aside. Add 1/4 cup butter to the warm cooking liquid and stir until butter has melted. Set aside.

In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon and salt. Set aside.

Once dough has doubled in size, transfer to a well-floured surface and roll into a 14 x 18-inch rectangle. Spread the surface with the 1/2 cup soft butter, leaving a 1/2-inch wide strip along the 14-inch top edge. Sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-brown sugar mixture, then top with an even layer of the cooked apples.

Beginning at the bottom of the rectangle, begin to roll up the dough into a long cylinder, sealing along the empty top edge. Cut the cylinder into 12 equal pieces and place on their sides in the prepared 9-inch square pan. Cover and let sit somewhere warm until puffy and nearly doubled in size, about 1 hour. Preheat oven to 350°F. Pour the reserved apple liquid over the top of the rolls and bake for 35-40 minutes.

Let cool for at least 15 minutes. Meanwhile, make the icing. Mix together cream cheese, powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth, adjusting consistency with milk.

Spread icing over the top of the rolls, then separate and serve.

mommag.com 23

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he Eugene Airport is a proud part of what makes Western Oregon such a unique place to live and visit, with direct routes connecting to hundreds of destinations.

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Nervous about choosing one or two?

It’s common for people to be wary of picking the “wrong” option during their eye exams, especially if you find little difference between the choices of lens one or two.

Eye doctors often have a general idea of your prescription but we use a process called refraction to fine-tune it. Refraction is, in its simplest form, how light bends as it reaches the retina. When that light doesn’t focus precisely is when patients have a need for corrective lenses.

Part of an eye exam typically involves looking through a mechanical mask called a phoropter. We can switch out lenses for patients to look through, which aids in refining a prescription. I coach patients that if they have a favorite lens, it tells me how to adjust, and if they have no preference then that means we’re right at their prescription. Interesting fact: Option one and two are just labels, and have nothing to do with the glasses numbers.

We could use Greek letters to label them if we wanted.

For young children or nonverbal patients we can use a technique called retinoscopy to determine the prescription with surprising accuracy. We can determine visual acuity, prescription, eye alignment and health without needing the patient to speak.

Remember that eye exams are recommended starting at 6 months of age. A comprehensive eye exam is significantly more thorough than the screening device at a pediatrician’s office, and should occur even if the pediatrician does not identify a concern.

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mommag.com 25

Stocking stuffers for all

Practical paternal figure Back scratcher Stim-u-dent dental picks Carabiners Dude Wipes Gorilla Glue Sport team or alumni car decal

Darling diva You’ve gotten the big stuff, but what to do for stocking stuffers? We have ideas for everyone, from your brother-inlaw to your big sis, and everyone in between.

Nail polish & remover wipes Headbands Makeup brushes Face masks Bath bombs

The neatnik Purell singles mini packs Phone screen wipes Travel lint roller Scrub Daddy Wool laundry dryer balls Clothing stain remover pens

Hostess with the mostess Battery-operated candles Swedish dishcloths Square silicone ice cube mold Reusable beeswax food wraps Command hooks

Gardening goddess Farmers Almanac Organic seed packets Plant markers Mesh vegetable bags Compost tea

TikToking teen Airpod case holder keychain Compact mini phone tripod Apple Air Tag 4-foot phone charging cable Clip-on LED selfie ring light

Classic kid Slinky Jr. Pocket Etch A sketch LEGO Brick Separator Bath crayons Silly erasers Mini boomerang

26 mommag.com

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mommag.com 27

GAMBERETTI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT // SALEM

MOM’s

Favorite

GATSBY // SALEM

Local Places It’s our second year of showcasing local places that our cover MOMs chose as favorites in the Willamette Valley.

Made the list two years in a row!

MULTIPLE MENTIONS, meaning local MOMs really like these places.

PASSIONFLOWER // EUGENE

28 mommag.com

EUGENE AREA

...take-out, food truck or quick bite:

...shop to pick up a gift or or something for yourself:

Chaiyo Thai Food Truck

Down to Earth Home, Garden & Gift Market of Choice Passionflower Designs Real Deals on Home Decor Rhythm and Blooms St. Vincent de Paul Sweet Salvage Thurston Flowers ...coffee spot: Coffee Plant Roaster Community Cup Coffee Crema & Bloom Meraki Coffee Co. Old Crow Coffee Southpine Bakery and Cafe Vero Espresso The Washburne Café …spot for a good workout or view: Coburg Fit Club Eugene Swim & Tennis Club Glow Yoga Spencer Butte Park Thurston Hills Natural Area ...restaurant to take the kids: Beergarden Chow Gastropub Evergreen Indian Mezza Luna Pizzeria Elk Horn Brewery

Burrito Amigos Killer Burger Once Famous Grill Sammitch Food Trucks Taco El Paisa Thai Time Kitchen Taqueria Mi Pueblo ...Other places MOMs love: Adventure! Children’s Museum Amazon Park Alton Baker Park Camas Swale Farm

...place to treat yourself to a massage or other personal service: Natural Healing Massage & Wellness Holistic Bodyworks & Nutrition Solar Nails Bliss Beauty Bar ...restaurant to take the kids: Gamberetti’s Italian Restaurant Rudy’s Steakhouse Shades of Brew Lively Station Pho Keizer

Eugene Public Library Lane County Farmers Market

...restaurants for a date night:

Owen Rose Garden

Chira’s

Parker Learning Gardens

The Cozy Taberna

Round1 Bowling & Amusement

Chen’s Family Dish JC’s Pizzaria

SALEM AREA ...shop to pick up a gift or or something for yourself: Bauman’s Farm & Garden Top Drawer Boutique The Freckled Bee

Paco’s Mexican Food Venti’s ...place where the kids can let off steam: Get Air Trampoline Park Salem’s Riverfront Carousel

Gatsby

Athletic Edge Adventure Park

The Find

Outdoor space at Salt Creek Ciderhouse

Green Space Design by Jude Olivia’s

Wes Bennett Park

...coffee spot:

...event in your community:

Archive Coffee & Bar

Salem Art Fair and Festival

Isaac’s Downtown

Salem Saturday Market

Happy Heart Coffee Company

Winter Beer Fest at Suttle Lake

Just Us Girls Coffee and Wine

Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival

Torero’s Mexican Restaurant

The Sippery

World Beat Festival

...restaurants for a date night:

…spot for a good workout or view:

B2 Bar & Grill

Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge

...any other local places you love:

North Fork Public House Royal India

Bao Bao House George & Violet’s King Estate Marché Placido’s Pasta Shop Plank Town Brewing Company Tacovore

Bush’s Pasture Park Minto Brown Island Park Dukes Family Vineyards Toe 2 Toe Boxing

Aunt Bee’s House E.Z. Orchards Market of Choice On Any Sundae The Fussy Duck

Our cover MOM's 2023 Favorite Local Places mommag.com 29

Our cover MOM's 2023 Favorite Local Places ALBANY, CORVALLIS & PHILOMATH AREAS ...shop to pick up a gift or or something for yourself: The Book Bin The Inkwell Home Store Restyle Seoul Sisters Boutique ...coffee spot: Coffee Culture The Brim Coffee Co.

TACOVORE // CORVALLIS

New Morning Bakery Timber Towne Coffee ...restaurant to take the kids: American Dream Pizza The Barn Cascade BBQ The Dizzy Hen El Palenque

RESTYLE // CORVALLIS

El Sol de Mexico Tacovore Sky High Brewing Sugar J’s Ice Cream Workshop SALEM’S RIVERFRONT CAROUSEL // SALEM

...restaurants for a date night: Block 15 Brewing Ixtapa Mexican Restaurant Sada Sushi & Izakaya TacoVino The Vault 244 Vinwood Taphouse ...take-out, food truck or quick bite: Local Boyz Hawaiian Cafe La Rockita Market of Choice Tacos El Machin Yogurt Extreme

30 mommag.com

...spot to get a good workout: Burn Boot Camp Orangetheory Fitness OSU Campus ...events & places where the kids can let off steam: Corvallis Farmers’ Market Corvallis Knights Baseball games OSU sporting events S&K Wacky Indoor Bounce Philomath Frolic & Rodeo

AUNT BEE’S HOUSE // SALEM

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PO Box 672 | Aurora, OR 97002-0672 503-825-2100 | 503-776-9185 fax mommag.com | info@mommag.com

The views, information and content in this magazine are not that of the organization that may have provided MOM Magazine to readers as a courtesy.

MOM Magazine and its distributors assume no liability for the contents or events arising out of its distribution.

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