[They know what they’re talking about] meet the experts
Drive
On the Road with Kristina Jara, page 8
Wellness
Best Self with Meghan Hess, NBC-HWC, page 12
Home
Real Estate with Kim Leighty, page 24
“
Spring’s greatest joy beyond a doubt is when it brings the children out.
“
— Edgar A. Guest
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
Marion & Polk County Business Development Manager Kim Leighty kim.leighty@mommag.com 503-510-9036
Mid-Valley & Lane County Business Development Manager Linda Blair linda@mommag.com 541-231-7250
Designer Sean Carver sean@activemediausa.com
MOM Magazine TM is owned by Active Media, Inc.
All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or part, without written permission of the publisher, is prohibited. Information in the magazine is provided for general information purposes only with the understanding that none of the content constitutes professional advice.
Opinions expressed by the writers or advertisers are not necessarily the opinions of the magazine or the publisher. Inclusion in the magazine does not constitute endorsement of information, products or services.
Editor’s Note
Our little corner of the world
At a job I had decades ago, there was an out-of-the-way closet for office supplies. Inside were the typical pens, paper and such, along with a faded sticky note with the message: “Please help keep this little corner of the world clean.” I was oddly struck by it as I considered the little corner of the world I stood upon at that moment, zoomed out from far above, on this spinning planet.
With its simple ask, that note always brings me back to the idea of what we can do in one small corner of the earth, especially as a collective. I’ve come back to it as a way to focus, especially when the world seems chaotic. I stop and think, what can I do in my corner of the world, right where I live, to improve it? For me, the answer is volunteering.
When my kids were little, I did not have a spare second for volunteering, and I missed it. When they got into school, I managed to ferret out pockets of time. Periodically donating blood became a favorite because it was quiet and relaxing, and they gave me cookies and juice. I was able to help someone else and simultaneously feel cared for.
As my kids have grown, I try to involve them in volunteering in the hopes they catch the spirit. Fostering kittens is a family favorite: our home instantly becomes a hot spot for the kids’ friends to visit, which is something I enjoy.
While I’m able to volunteer in dribs and drabs, I’m keenly aware of the super-volunteers who devote their lives to it. These are remarkable people, and it’s part of why at
MOM Magazine we honor them with our annual Community Impact Awards. This year, we have chosen…
In the Mid-Valley: Community Outreach, Inc., which provides shelter, health care and more to families and individuals in need of stability.
In Eugene: the Eugene Public Library Foundation’s Imagination Library, which mails a free book each month to any child in Eugene, from birth to age five.
In Salem: Salem Angels provides resources and support to children, youth and families in the foster care community.
These remarkable organizations only scratch the surface of what people are doing, right where we live, to help make the world better. It’s a good reminder that in spite of everything, as Anne Frank wrote, people are good at heart. Take a look at your little corner of the world. It could use your help.
Audrey Meier DeKam
GET YOUR HEAD in the GAME
Concussions can occur on or off the field — learn what to watch for in children.
The term concussion gets tossed around frequently in reference to kids’ sports, but many parents might not understand the complexity or the effects. In short, a concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by an impact to the head or body. However, not everyone who suffers a blow to the head or body gets a concussion.
When you think about the sports in which children and teens might suffer from a concussion, football is likely at the top of your list. And while it tops the list, the second most common athletics for concussion is girls’ soccer, which may be surprising as a non-contact sport. The fact is, whether in organized sports, on the playground or at home, concussions can be a real risk in even the most ordinary situations.
A concussion is usually accompanied by immediate symptoms that alone might not cause alarm, but in total following a fall or impact injury, could indicate a more serious condition. Common signs and symptoms of a concussion include headache, nausea or vomiting, drowsiness, ringing in the ears and blurry vision.
A person with a concussion may not lose consciousness at all. Some concussion symptoms might be delayed as well, and can include personality changes, trouble sleeping or changes in taste and smell.
Young children might not be able to describe their symptoms, so parents should watch for changes in behavior that can indicate pain or upset, such as:
• Vomiting
• Irritability
• Looking or seeming dazed
• Being listless or easily tired
• Trouble with balance
• Crying for a long period of time
• Lack of interest in toys or activities
• Changes to eating or sleeping habits
Seek emergency care if serious symptoms arise, such as:
• Repeated vomiting or nausea
• Loss of consciousness
• Confusion or changes in behavior or mood
• Any symptom (headache, dizziness, weakness, etc.) that gets progressively worse or does not go away
• Fluid draining from the nose or ears
• Changes in vision or speech
• Seizures
Concussions in youth sports may be declining, but they are still serious. These days, most coaches and other adults who work with youth have training in identifying concussion symptoms at the time of incident. There are protocols in place to test kids on the sidelines if a coach suspects they may have suffered a concussion-causing injury, and sports equipment is optimized to reduce these events.
When it comes to brain health, it’s often best to be safe than sorry. If your child or teen suffers an injury to the head or body that you suspect may lead to concussion, consult your health care provider immediately.
always sports
The potential for concussion is not unique to the playing field. Falls at home or other playground incidents can also cause these types of injuries and can be prevented or reduced by making your child’s environment a safer one:
• Always wear seatbelts
• Wear helmets when biking, skiing, skateboarding or participating in other individual sports
• Reduce fall hazards in your home by keeping floors clear
Brought
• Block off staircases and other unsafe areas for younger children
A clean car with kids? Aim for clean-ish
We get it: kids are messy. They also need to go places, which means your car becomes a mini home on wheels. From eating to watching shows, life — and its messes — happen in our vehicles. Here’s how to keep them clean-ish. Stock the basics
Every kid-mobile needs wipes, hand sanitizer, plastic bags for wet or soiled clothes and, for little ones, a supply of diapers. A towel comes in handy, too.
Invest in an organizer
A sturdy seatback organizer is excellent for life on the go. Look for ones with closable or zip pouches, so there’s no concern about flying objects if you have to make a sudden stop.
Trash containment
Without a designated trash container in your car you’re bound to have fossilized orange peels and raisin boxes rolling around your ride. Have trash bags in your car at all times for quick garbage collection. Even better, put the bag inside a sealable plastic container, then you can close the lid on spills and messes.
When getting gas
Make a habit of doing a quick clean up when you stop for gas. There’s usually a trashcan to throw away empty snack wrappers, juice boxes and other minor garbage that didn’t make it into your designated trash container.
KRISTINA JARA
Kristina has been with Capitol Auto Group for over two years as a Service Business Development Specialist. Kristina and her husband Austin have two amazing children, Thomas who is 5, and Kiylee who is 4. “There are so many things I love about working for Capitol, including how it’s become another family to me,” Kristina says. In her spare time she enjoys doing puzzles with her family and reading books with her children.
CLEANING CAR SEATS
If you’ve ever known the horror of vomit or a blowout in a child’s car seat, you are not alone. Car seats are probably the most diabolical item to clean, with all their creases, buckles and complexities. Though you may be tempted to turn a hose upon it (or a lit match), there are important protocols for cleaning them to maintain their safety for your children.
Following the manufacturer’s directions is key. If you tossed or lost the manuals like the rest of us, no worries, as you can find them online these days. Most manufacturers warn against using types of products that can degrade the integrity of the harness straps or other parts. Generally, that means no bleach and only spot cleaning with mild detergent on the harnesses and buckles. For the removable fabric parts, follow the tag instructions. Most will be line-dry only.
And clear your day to put the thing back together. Most of us with kids have been there!
Brought to you by:
places to take the kids this spring 20
In the spirit of celebrating MOM Magazine’s 20 th anniversary, we’re sharing our top 20 favorite local events and spaces for kids. Put these on your list for springtime fun!
Photo by Alex Jordan; Courtesy of Explore Lincoln City
April May
Planet Palooza: activities & Parade of the Species
First Willamette Valley Pow Wow May 31 Lebanon calendar.powwows.com/events/ willamette-valley-pow-wow/
Blippi: Join the Band at the Elsinore Theatre
June 1
Salem elsinoretheatre.com
Wellness
Stress-free meal prep: conquer weeknight dinners
Weeknights can be dinner’s great mystery. Takeout? Cereal? Dare we dream of actual food? Fear not, weary parent, strategic meal prep is your superhero (minus the cape, because…laundry).
Start by planning. Meatless Mondays and Taco Tuesdays are your friends. Grocery shop with a list (and avoid the snack aisle’s siren song). Batch cook on the weekend: Roast veggies, cook grains, prep protein. Embrace one-pot wonders, slow cookers, and sheet pan dinners…
Yet all of this is easier said than done. This is where a health coach can help. A health coach can act as your meal prep guru who holds you accountable. Many of us have trouble turning thought into actions. You have great ideas for meals saved on your phone, but your energy drops, or a kid gets sick, or a deadline comes up at work...life just happens.
A health coach listens to what you and your family need, in the context of your busy lives. If you have a picky eater, we customize a meal plan to make it work for all. We can teach and guide you in time-saving batch cooking, and offer creative recipes your kids might actually eat.
A health coach empowers you to conquer weeknight dinners, making healthy eating a sustainable lifestyle. You might even get two minutes to yourself...future you will thank you.
Meghan Hess
WE AGREE: MOTHERHOOD DOES SOMETIMES FEEL LIKE JUGGLING FLAMING TORCHES WHILE RIDING A UNICYCLE ON A TIGHTROPE.
PROFESSION: Health & wellness coach
COMMUNITY: Salem
PARTNER: Shane Hess, orthopedic surgeon
CHILDREN: Lincoln, age 3, and Sawyer, age 2
PHOTOS BY: LAUREL BICE
Family comes first.
All families are unique. Tell us about yours. I was born and raised in Tucson, the heart of the Sonoran Desert, which is also where I met my husband, Shane, back in 2015. After a year we moved to Scottsdale and were there for three years before realizing that we craved a change of scenery, something a bit less…hot.
We landed in Salem, a charming city that surprised us with its friendly people and stunning scenery (we visited in the summer, so naturally, it was all sunshine and roses). Having spent my entire life in a place where the sun tries its best to turn you into a crispy critter, I was instantly smitten with Oregon’s lush greenery, towering trees and the promise of actual seasons.
In November 2019, we packed up our lives, two big dogs (Kai and Kona), and embarked on a 21-hour road trip to our new home. Shane was convinced I’d be curled up in a ball, weeping for the desert within a week. But the joke is on him! I fell head over heels for the rain, the cozy sweaters… plus, let’s be real, you can walk your dog in a drizzle, but try doing that on asphalt hot enough to fry an egg.
Fast forward through a global pandemic and the arrival of two tiny humans: Lincoln, our 3.5-year-old explorer, and Sawyer, his 2.5-year-old partner in crime (they’re 14 months apart, because who needs sleep
anyway?). They’re already experts at puddle-jumping, and I’m pretty sure they’ll be skiing and building elaborate mud kingdoms before they can even tie their shoes. Now that we’re (mostly) out of the diaper phase, we’re exploring everything Oregon has to offer.
Every family has its own traditions, rituals or inside jokes. What are some of yours? We were on a road trip to Bend and stopped in Sisters, a place so familiar with our family’s bathroom needs, they might as well have a dedicated plaque with our names on it. Lincoln, barely two at the time, was in his adorable, babbling phase, while Sawyer, the nine-month-old car seat destroyer, was about to unleash his inner chaos. A “code brown” situation erupted in Sawyer’s car seat, prompting a frantic cleanup operation. My husband bravely tackled the car seat, while I wrestled the Sawyer-shaped biohazard. In all the chaos Shane yelled, “Ah! Poop in my eye!” He managed to get some of the mess in his eye, or at least he thought he did. Lincoln, our tiny comedian, found this utterly hilarious and erupted in giggles. A few days later, during a rare moment of peace, Lincoln gleefully taunted his dad with, “POO-POO EYE!” We all lost it, the absurdity of the situation was too much to handle. Now, “poo-poo in my eye” has become our family’s official phrase for “dad’s being dramatic.”
Tell us about one of your proudest mom moments. One of my proudest moments as a mom has been watching my kids develop a healthy relationship with food. It’s really important to me that they grow up as intuitive eaters, trusting their bodies and honoring their hunger cues. We focus on listening to those cues, so I decide what goes on their plates, but they get to choose what and how much they eat. Some nights it’s an all-apple buffet, other nights they surprise me by actually trying new things.
But here’s the thing I’m most proud of: I include a “treat” food with every meal, no strings attached. There’s no “eat your veggies first” or “you can have dessert if...” It’s just part of the meal, like any other food. And you know what? It’s working. They don’t obsess over the treat, and they often don’t even eat it all. It’s not this forbidden treasure they have to earn, and the other foods aren’t “punishments” they have to endure to get to the good stuff. It’s amazing to see them calmly choose an apple over a cookie, or decide they’re full and leave some of their treat behind. It means I’m doing something right, and that’s a pretty awesome feeling.
Now tell us about one of your most humbling mom moments. We’ve been on this “no stupid” crusade in our house, thanks to our evervigilant 3-year-old. On a recent trip I slipped up and “stupid” slipped out, referring to something completely trivial. Lincoln became my tiny, personal morality police. “Mama, you said stupid! That’s not a nice word!” he declared, with all the righteous indignation of a miniature town crier. I did the whole “You’re absolutely right, I’m sorry. It will not happen again,” routine, thinking that would be the end of it. Narrator: It was not the end of it.
What is the most surprising thing you have found wedged between the sofa cushions or behind a car seat? Toy cars! So many cars everywhere…
What are you enjoying the most about parenting right now? Oh man, the toddler years are wild, aren’t they? It’s like living with two tiny philosophers who also happen to be expert climbers and possess a vocabulary
that’s 50% made-up words. But it’s the best kind of chaos. Right now, I’m loving watching them figure out the world. Their brains are like little sponges, soaking up everything, and the things they come up with? Pure gold. And their relationship with each other is a constant source of entertainment. One minute they’re best buddies, building elaborate pillow forts and sharing snacks (kind of). The next minute, they’re locked in an epic battle over a single toy car, complete with dramatic yelling and maybe some light wrestling.
You know you’re a mom when you hear yourself say… “Is that poop or chocolate?”
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? Okay, real talk: balancing motherhood with, well, everything else is like trying to juggle flaming torches while riding a unicycle on a tightrope. It’s a constant state of organized chaos, and some days, I feel like I’m just one dropped torch away from a total meltdown.
I’m incredibly fortunate to own my own business and work from home and to have found a nanny who’s basically part of our family. But even with that support system, it’s a constant dance. Some days, I’m nailing it, rocking the business owner-life-mom thing like a boss. Other days, I’m pretty sure I’ve forgotten what day it is, and my to-do list is longer than my arm. And honestly, I couldn’t do any of it without my amazing husband, Shane. He’s not just a fantastic partner, he’s
MOMs love local…
We love locally owned businesses, restaurants, places and organizations. Share your favorite…
…shop to pick up a gift for a friend: Willamette Valley Kitchen Co.
…coffee spot: Urban Grange Coffee
…spot to get a good workout: Common People Yoga
…hair salon: June Karter Salon
…restaurant to take the kids: Cascadia Pizza Co.
…restaurants for a date night: Cozy Taberna, Bentley’s
…take-out, food truck or quick bite: Checkpoint 22
…local park where kids can let off steam: Any park! But my favorite is Keizer Rapids
…event in your community: Minto Island Growers pizza (Wednesdays in summer)
…any other local places you love: Salem Saturday Market
a superhero dad. He tackles parenthood with this infectious enthusiasm that makes even the most mundane tasks seem fun. But it’s more than just the fun stuff. He’s incredibly patient, supportive, and always there with a hug, even when covered in questionable substances.
So, what falls through the cracks? Sometimes, it’s the housework. Sometimes, it’s my “me time.” And sometimes, it’s just remembering to brush my hair before noon. But that’s okay because at the end of the day, I’m surrounded by love, laughter and the occasional rogue Lego.
Tell us about your work or volunteerism outside of the home. In my “other life,” the one where I occasionally wear pants without sticky fingerprints, I’m a board-certified health coach and have my own coaching business. Basically, I help people ditch the fad diets and create a lifestyle that actually works for them. We’re talking about sustainable changes that make them feel awesome, not miserable. I help people create a lifestyle that nourishes their bodies and minds.
It’s like being a detective, therapist, and cheerleader all rolled into one. I help people uncover their unique needs, ditch those pesky habits that are holding them back, and discover a way of eating and living that makes them feel amazing. We’re talking about real, lasting changes that fit into their lives, not some rigid plan they found on the internet that’s doomed to fail by week two.
Tell us about a recent achievement you’re proud of, or a personal passion or talent. A couple years ago I got board certified as a health coach, and let me tell you, that exam was no joke. Between work and wrangling two under two, studying felt like an Olympic sport. When I saw that I passed it was like a giant weight lifted.
When was the last time you failed? What did you learn? I fail so often, I should probably get a frequent-failure punch card. But here’s the thing: I’ve learned to embrace the epic faceplant. It’s just like I tell my clients: failure isn’t a scarlet letter, it’s a learning opportunity. When things don’t go according to plan, I try to channel my inner detective: “What went sideways? What can I do differently next time?” The only real failure is giving up on trying to figure it out.
If mom’s not happy, nobody’s happy.
What do you think is the most important life skill or value your parents taught you? Independence. When was the last time you did something for the first time? This “season,” is just a never-ending parade of firsts. I’m constantly mastering one chaotic routine, only to have it completely obliterated by some new toddlerinduced curveball.
I’m a routine enthusiast, a schedule aficionado, a planner extraordinaire so when things go sideways, my internal compass just spins wildly. Every day is a fresh opportunity to learn a new level of winging it.
Which good habit do you wish you started earlier? Running. I didn’t get into running until my 20s and I absolutely love it. I wish I had started younger, but it’s never too late to start anything!
What is the quality you like most about yourself? Compassion. Not the kind where I’m weeping over every squirrel with a limp, but the kind where I actually listen. Like, really listen. I genuinely want to understand where people are coming from.
If you could instantly have one new skill (i.e. foreign language, musical talent, eyes in the back of your head, etc.), what would it be? Definitely eyes in the back of my head. With two toddler boys, need I say more?
Tell us something about you that would surprise people who don’t know you. I hate onions. With a passion. Luckily my husband loves them. So when I have to add them to recipes I cut the onion in half or quarters so I can easily pick them out and he doesn’t mind at all.
What keeps you up at night (apart from kids, of course)? Confession time: I’m a sleep snob. I’m utterly, shamelessly obsessed with good sleep. I actually brag about my sleep hygiene, which I realize is a weird flex, but hey, I earned it. (Unless, of course, a tiny human or a furry alarm clock decides to stage a midnight wake-up call.)
What keeps you sane? Movement. Strength training, running, cycling, hot yoga, pilates, etc. My friends know I’m their go-to workout buddy, the one who’s always up for trying a new class, even if it involves interpretive dance with resistance bands.
What is your least/most favorite household chore? Least: dishes. Favorite: mopping. Our floors get so dirty with toddler boys and two big
dogs that it’s so satisfying to watch all the things go away with just a sweep of a mop (a steam mop, so we’re sanitizing also, because dogs and boys).
What’s your guilty pleasure (dark chocolate hidden in the pantry, daily latte…)? The Real Housewives series, all of them.
Listen to mom.
Is motherhood what you expected? What surprised you the most? Let’s just say I expected a theme park, and I got a theme park designed by a caffeinated squirrel. The biggest surprise? The emotional whiplash. Seriously, it’s like being on a ride where the highs and lows switch places every five seconds. One minute, I’m thinking, “This is it. This is the apocalypse. My life is a never-ending cycle of tantrums and sticky fingers.” The next, I’m looking at my kids and thinking, “I’ve never felt this much pure, unadulterated joy in my entire existence!” And then, BAM! Back to the tantrum. Rinse and repeat, about 30 times a day. It’s truly the most baffling, exhausting and wonderful experience.
What’s the best advice you’ve received from another mom? Let go of the mom guilt because there’s more around the corner…
What message would you like to share with other moms? Remember to tell it like it is. Moms, let’s be real. We’re not just amazing, we’re superheroes in disguise. We’re navigating the uncharted territories of toddler tantrums, deciphering the cryptic language of baby babble, and somehow managing to keep tiny humans alive while simultaneously trying to remember what day it is. Motherhood is a glorious, messy, sleep-deprived adventure. There will be days when you feel like you’re nailing it, and days when you’re pretty sure you’re failing spectacularly. But here’s the secret: you’re not alone. We’re all in this together, a tribe of warriors battling laundry mountains and negotiating snack-time peace treaties.
Trust your instincts, even when they’re telling you to hide in the pantry. Embrace the chaos, the spills, the unexpected meltdowns, because those are the moments that make this journey so incredibly rich. And most importantly, remember that you’re doing a fantastic job, even when you feel like you’re falling apart. Give yourself some grace, take a deep breath, and know that you’re enough, just as you are.
MOM’s favorite…
Tell us about your favorite…
…family game: Chickapig
…words to live by: Progress not perfection
…place to find some peace & quiet: Anywhere out of the house
…binge-worthy TV or podcast: Huberman Lab, The Doctor’s Farmacy, Shrinking
…time-saving app or digital tool: iCalendar
…parenting book or philosophy: Big Little Feelings; Good Inside
Springtime recipes
Warming weather and more daylight has us in the mood for light eats.
Fresh spring rolls
WITH PEANUT DIPPING SAUCE
8 round rice paper wraps
1 large avocado, peeled and sliced thin
2 cups carrots, shredded or julienned
2 cups shredded purple cabbage
2 cups ready-to-eat shrimp, no tails
⅔ cup chopped cilantro
Assemble all ingredients. Note that rice paper needs to be worked with quickly.
Fill a large shallow container with lukewarm water. Working with one rice paper at a time, dip it into the water for about 15 seconds until it softens, then lift and gently shake off excess water.
Lay the rice paper on a smooth, clean surface. In the center, add 1/4 cup each of the avocado, carrots, cabbage and shrimp. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over top.
Roll the rice paper similar to a burrito by folding in the sides then rolling forward. The rice paper is naturally sticky, so you might need to wet your fingertips while folding.
PEANUT DIPPING SAUCE
1/2 cup peanut butter, unsweetened
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon grated ginger root
1/2 cup of fresh-squeezed lime juice
3 garlic gloves, pressed
2 – 4 tablespoons warm water
Salt to taste
Whisk together all sauce ingredients except the warm water and salt. Add a tablespoon of the warm water at a time to get it to a consistency of your liking. Add salt to taste. If you want a bit of spice, add a little chili sauce.
Hot cross buns
¾ cup warm water
¼ cup powdered milk
Substitute 1 cup of regular milk in place of the powdered milk and warm water.
¼ cup melted butter
⅓ cup honey
1 teaspoon salt
3 and 1/2 cups flour
1 cup raisins or currants (optional)
1/2 teaspoon mace
Substitute nutmeg if needed.
1 beaten egg
1 tablespoon yeast
In a large bowl, combine the water, milk, butter, honey and salt then stir until dissolved. Then mix in one cup of the flour, raisins or currants (if using) and the mace.
Add the beaten egg and yeast, then the additional 2 ½ cups of flour, and mix well.
On a clean surface, knead the dough until it is soft and smooth. Place in a greased bowl and let it rise one-and-half to two hours, until it doubles in size.
Shape into buns and mark each with a deep cross. Place buns on a greased baking sheet and let rise until doubled.
Bake at 375 degrees for about 25 minutes.
Don’t forget to sing the eponymous song — you know it already from your kid’s recorder practice.
Lovely lemon loaf
¼ cup unsalted melted butter
¼ cup vegetable oil
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
¼ teaspoon almond extract
1 and 1/2 cup flour
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest or more to taste
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 – 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Combine melted butter, oil and sugar in a large bowl, then stir in eggs and almond extract.
Sift together the flour, salt and baking powder. Add about half of the dry ingredients to the sugar mixture, and alternate with the milk until all are combined (but not overmixed). Add in the lemon zest.
In a greased loaf pan, bake at 325 for about 55 minutes or until a fork comes out clean. Cool on a rack for 10 minutes, then release from the pan.
For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice until it reaches your desired consistency. When the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the glaze overtop.
Selling in springtime
Spring is a busy time in real estate. These steps can attract buyers and transform your home from “meh” to “wow!”
Curb appeal: A fresh exterior, tidy yard and inviting entryway create a positive first impression. Consider power washing the exterior, repainting the front door, adding potted plants and ensuring the lawn is well-maintained. Stand at your door as a visitor and look for cobwebs and anything that would be spotted by a visitor or buyer. A welcoming entryway invites buyers to explore further.
Declutter: Less is more. A clean, open space allows buyers to envision their own belongings. Focus on removing excess furniture, personal items and anything that obstructs walkways or countertops. Consider packing away items you won’t need until after you move.
Neutralize: Neutral paint colors (beige, gray, off-white) create a blank canvas for potential buyers. These colors appeal to a wider range of tastes and make rooms feel larger and brighter. Don’t forget to consider neutral tones for rugs and other textiles as well.
Stage strategically: Arrange furniture to highlight your home’s best features and maximize space. Focus on creating
a flow that is easy to navigate. Consider the focal point of each room and arrange furniture to draw attention to it. Remember, staging is about showcasing your home’s potential and helping buyers imagine themselves living there. Luxury linens: Plush towels and crisp, neutral bedding create a spa-like feel in bathrooms and bedrooms. This small touch of luxury can make a big impression on buyers or visitors to your home. Think hotel-quality linens in white or other soft, neutral tones.
Maximize light: Allow the natural light to shine by opening blinds and curtains. Supplement with warm artificial light from lamps and overhead fixtures. Good lighting makes rooms feel more inviting and spacious. Clean windows can also make a surprising difference.
Outdoor living: Stage patios and yards as extensions of your living space with comfortable furniture, clean landscaping and perhaps a fire pit or grill. Create an inviting outdoor oasis where buyers can imagine relaxing and entertaining.
Kim Leighty REALTOR® /Broker
Celebrating local moms for 20 years
MOM Magazine proudly focuses on real moms and families living in the Oregon communities we represent. For over 20 years, you, our readers, have helped us celebrate local moms and the work mothers do in our communities.Thank you.
Cover MOM, Maggie Velasco
Deep clean all the kid things SPRING HAS US IN THE MOOD TO DEGRIME
BRUSHES & COMBS
First, remove as much of the hair from brushes and combs as possible; the pointy end of a rat tail comb will help dislodge hair and buildup stuck between bristles. In a large bowl filled with hot water, add a cup of white vinegar and soak for 15 minutes. Use an old toothbrush to scrub out the gunk, then rinse and air dry. Note that some paddle brushes might have removable parts that allow for thorough cleaning.
WATER BOTTLES
Invest in a good bottle brush. Older styles lean toward wire and plastic bristles, which can rust and degrade. Look for a food-safe, dishwasher-safe one you can use to reach the sludge at the bottom of the bottles. Silicone is a popular choice.
BACKPACKS & DIAPER BAGS
Most all-fabric bags can typically go in the washing machine on a gentle cycle, but search — and we mean dig deep — into every last pocket before you do so. You do not want to accidentally wash a waxy lip balm, gum or other problematic items. For bags with vinyl adornments, you’ll have to hand wash them in a mild detergent. Press between dry towels to remove excess water and line dry.
DESTINK THE SNEAKS & SHOES
Homegrown brand Nike recommends a 50/50 white vinegar and water solution in a spray bottle; spray inside the shoes and allow to dry. They also recommend a dry bar of soap placed in each shoe overnight. Crocs can go in the washing machine on a delicate cycle, with a gentle detergent. Air dry away from heat sources.
EARBUDS
Apple provides very specific guidelines to cleaning their AirPods, involving a ceremony with micellar water, distilled water and a soft toothbrush. But we don’t know anyone with that kind of time on their hands, so a soft cloth wipe-down will do. If you want to live dangerously (and not fret about potentially ruining a pair of ear buds), you can try a toothpick to dislodge the gunk.
A melamine sponge works wonders for cleaning crayon and unidentified markings on the walls.
WALLS & UPHOLSTERY
A melamine sponge works wonders for cleaning crayon and unidentified markings on the walls. Tip: Save money and shop for the generic brand in bulk.
After a thorough vacuuming, try a DIY upholstery spray to freshen up fabrics: mix 1 cup of water and ¼ rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. If you don’t like the smell of rubbing alcohol, cheap vodka works too. And you can add a drop of your favorite essential oil to the mix if you like. Just be sure to spot test it first on furniture you care about, and store it securely out of reach of children.
UNDER THE BED
The long handle of a broom can be used to bring forth the detritus of toys, food wrappers, juice boxes, underwear and no doubt a few surprises. If your child is old enough, ask for their much-needed help; they are small and can wriggle under there.
Tip: if your heating vents are on the floor, unscrew them and investigate with a flashlight. We’ve found numerous teeny toy parts, hair ties, coins and other items. One unlucky mom we know discovered old spaghetti.
We’re adding independent sales executives.
Sales representative positions require you to build connections within your community by developing new advertising prospects, managing existing clients and representing MOM Magazine. Enjoy the freedom of working independently and managing your own schedule, while relying on your self-motivation to get the job done. Work alongside people who love what they do and celebrate your local community. It’s a great gig for moms!
Learn more at mommag.com/hiring
Estamos agregando ejecutivos de ventas independientes.
Los puestos de representante de ventas requieren que construyas conexiones dentro de su comunidad mediante el desarrollo de nuevos prospectos publicitarios, la gestión de clientes existentes y la representación de MOM Magazine. Disfruta de la libertad de trabajar de forma independiente y gestionar tu propio horario, mientras confías en tu automotivación para hacer el trabajo.
Trabaja con gente que ama lo que hace y celebra tu comunidad local. Es un gran trabajo para las madres. Más información en mommag.com/hiring
mommag.com/hiring | raeann@activemediausa.com
Four tips for healthy eating during pregnancy
Four tips for healthy eating during pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time when your body needs extra nutrients to support both you and your growing baby. But as a busy parent-to-be, finding time to prepare healthy meals can feel like a challenge.
Pregnancy is a time when your body needs extra nutrients to support both you and your growing baby. But as a busy parent-to-be, finding time to prepare healthy meals can feel like a challenge.
Here are a few ways to create quick, nutrient-packed dishes that fuel your pregnancy. No complicated recipes needed!
Here are a few ways to create quick, nutrient-packed dishes that fuel your pregnancy. No complicated recipes needed!
1. Focus on key nutrients for mom and baby: This includes folic acid, iron, calcium and protein. Stick to whole grains, lean proteins, dairy and colorful vegetables. Try incorporating a variety of easy-to-make meals like overnight oats with chia seeds and fruit for breakfast, or a simple veggie-packed stir fry with quinoa and grilled chicken for lunch.
1. Focus on key nutrients for mom and baby: This includes folic acid, iron, calcium and protein. Stick to whole grains, lean proteins, dairy and colorful vegetables. Try incorporating a variety of easy-to-make meals like overnight oats with chia seeds and fruit for breakfast, or a simple veggie-packed stir fry with quinoa and grilled chicken for lunch.
2. Be prepared with healthy snacks: Reach for options like Greek yogurt with nuts and berries, or hummus with carrot and cucumber sticks. These options are quick to prep, packed with protein and keep you feeling satisfied throughout the day.
2. Be prepared with healthy snacks: Reach for options like Greek yogurt with nuts and berries, or hummus with carrot and cucumber sticks. These options are quick to prep, packed with protein and keep you feeling satisfied throughout the day.
3. Meal prepping is your friend: Batch-cooking healthy meals on the weekend or using a slow cooker during the week can save you time and ensure you always have something nutritious ready. The key is balancing convenience with wholesome choices.
3. Meal prepping is your friend: Batch-cooking healthy meals on the weekend or using a slow cooker during the week can save you time and ensure you always have something nutritious ready. The key is balancing convenience with wholesome choices.
4. Be kind to your body: If you’re feeling nauseous, stick to bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. Instead of eating big meals, snack often, and make sure to get plenty of fluids.
4. Be kind to your body: If you’re feeling nauseous, stick to bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. Instead of eating big meals, snack often, and make sure to get plenty of fluids.
Nourishing yourself doesn’t have to be stressful, and with a little planning, you’ll be fueling your pregnancy with ease.
Nourishing yourself doesn’t have to be stressful, and with a little planning, you’ll be fueling your pregnancy with ease.
Brought
Brought to you by Salem Health Family Birth Center. Learn more at salemhealth.org/FBC
