Mid Valley MOM | Feb / March 2024

real local moms

since 2005

Mid Valley | Feb / March 2024

COVER MOM

LOCAL SPACES FOR

NO-KNEAD

NICHOLE ASHLEY MOSS

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

BREAD RECIPES

My First Choice for My Child’s Health HOW TO KNOW WHEN TO CALL YOUR PEDIATRICIAN As a parent or guardian, it can be challenging to know when your child needs medical care. It can be easy to second-guess yourself. When in doubt, follow your instincts. If you think something may be wrong, err on the side of caution and call your pediatrician.

Here are a few telltale signs that your child needs to be seen by a doctor right away: 1. They have a fever: If your baby is under two months old, a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher is an emergency. If they are older in age, a fever over 100.4 degrees that lasts three or more days could signify a problem that requires antibiotics or further testing.

2. They are vomiting and have diarrhea: Occasional vomiting or diarrhea is common in children. However, if they have both symptoms simultaneously, there could be a bigger problem, such as an infection or dehydration.

3. They’re having trouble breathing: If your child’s nostrils are flaring when they breathe, their ribs suck in with each breath, they are making a funny noise or wheezing, or they are just breathing quickly for a while, it’s time to call your pediatrician. If their lips or nails have a bluish color, call 911 right away.

Do you need to talk to a local pediatrician you know you can trust?

Call us to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified pediatricians.

Schedule an appointment 541-754-1278 | CorvallisClinic.com/pediatrics

It’s what‘s inside that counts

We independent movie theaters 23

Local spaces for birthday parties

They know what they’re

Cover MOM: Nichole Ashley Moss.....14

We independent movie theaters................23

talking about.

This mom gets real.

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

No-knead bread recipies..................21

No-knead bread recipies

21

Meet the MOM experts ... 4

A message from MOM

More ways to love your MOM mommag.com facebook.com/ lovemommag

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Local spaces for birthday parties..............24

Advertise today Want to get the word out about your business? Contact Linda Blair at linda@mommag.com

info@mommag.com We love hearing from you. Email us with feedback, story ideas or nominations.

MOM MagazineTM is owned by Active Media, Inc.

Cover MOM

14

Photos by Christy Campbell Creative

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

mommag.com 3

meet the

experts

[They know what they’re talking about] Say Cheese Say Cheese with Dr. Wade Haslam, page 7

Pets Pets are Family with Dr Jilinda Lewis, page 13

Health Let’s Talk Health with Samaritan Health Services, page 6

Home Reimagine Your Home with Rylee Henderer, page 8

Support Support for Families with Audrey Benson, page 22

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Focus

Thrive

Focus on MOM with Dr. Carli Lancaster, page 9

Helping Kids Thrive with Karen Swanger, page 19

Play

Natural

Play with Adrienne Fritze, page 10

Natural Choices with Jasmin Woodside, page 27

Smile

Learn

Something to Smile About with Dr. Jay Vaikuntam, page 11

Partners in Education with Anna Marie Gosser, page 29

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

What will the kids remember?

A running theme in my parenting is that I try just about anything at least once. When it comes to my kids’ birthday parties, I’ve gone all-out with big bashes as well as held small, living room gatherings. There was a Hot Wheels birthday party, complete with car pinata. There was a colorful Legothemed party at a local pizza place. Then there were ones with just a few of their pals and a homemade cake, without any theme at all.

Never did I settle on what was better or best, though the practical side of me much preferred having it at a venue where the mess was contained and activities led by staff. I asked my kids what they remember and they teenage grunt at me with I dunno, which has me questioning why did I do anything at all? I remember their birthdays, and their grandparents do too. But if the kids don’t remember, why did I go through all the trouble?

Recently I read For Small Creatures Such as We by Sasha Sagan, which is all about the beauty of rituals. Her words gave me clarity on why I have a Pinterest board for birthday parties and a plastic storage container of streamers and other decor. A child under age five likely won’t remember what you served, or what was in the goody bags.

Older children may only have threads of memories. What Sagan helped me see is that the event goes beyond the individual themselves. It’s perfectly fine if the party is more for the grownups, or if the kids’ memories are mostly built from photos or videos.

The gathering itself is an opportunity to be

together, and to say, this is our tribe, these are your people. We’re glad you’re here among us, in this moment of time we share.

Speaking of teens, nowadays mine no longer want trampoline park or swimming center parties; they want to be with their friends and away from adults. So enjoy the childhood birthday soirees while you can, with all the sticky fingers and noisy chaos. You’ll be glad you did them, even if they’re held only in your memory.

Cheers, Audrey Meier DeKam Editor-in-Chief

mommag.com 5

Let’s talk health

QA

Have a question you forgot to discuss at the doctor’s office or are too embarrassed to ask? The experts at Samaritan Health Services are here to help.

Q. I’ve heard heart attack symptoms can be different in women. What should I look out for?

A. The symptoms of a heart attack can be much more subtle than sudden chest pain.

These subtle symptoms occur more often in women than in men.

The other symptoms to be aware of include shortness of breath, cold sweats, fatigue, jaw and back pain, palpitations or heart racing, and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and indigestion.

When the symptoms are not what they expect, women might not seek care. Ignoring symptoms can have drastic consequences. Pay attention to your body and new symptoms.

Call 911 and get to a hospital right away if you experience any of the following:

• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.

• Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest lasting more than a few minutes or that goes away and comes back.

Be as detailed as possible when describing your symptoms to the doctor. This helps ensure you are diagnosed correctly.

• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

Q: I’ve just entered my mid-40’s and I heard you should begin colorectal cancer screenings at age 45. I’m in generally good health. Do I need to rush and get this test based on the new recommended age?

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Brought to you by:

— Monica Thukral, ANP, Samaritan Cardiology – Corvallis

You may have heard concerns expressed about the procedure. Several colorectal screening options are available, all of which have pros and cons regarding cost, time, discomfort and accuracy. It is always best to talk with your health care provider about which option is right for you.

So why make getting a colorectal cancer screening a priority? Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., with 1 in 25 women receiving this diagnosis.

™

• Chest pain or discomfort.

It is also one of the most preventable when caught and treated early, with survival rates around 90%. Finally, we are seeing more and more cases of younger people with colorectal cancer, which was the driver for the guideline change.

A: Truthfully, regardless of being in good health or not, it’s always important to follow standard guidelines when it comes to cancer screenings. This should really be the rule of thumb for any recommended screening because the primary goal is to help with early detection of cancer.

Let’s talk health

• Breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

The most important thing, though, is to not delay. Cancer screenings truly save lives.

— Robert Davis, MD, Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center Hematology & Oncology

Call Samaritan Health Services Find a Doctor line at 800-863-5241 to find a provider who is right for you.

Canker sores

What to do when your child has them Canker sores are common, shallow ulcers that appear inside the mouth for a variety of reasons such as changes in diet, hormones, injury and stress. They are painful and annoying, but they usually go away on their own. They are not contagious.

Braces do not cause canker sores, but they can bring them on when getting new braces or if a wire is poking. If your child has a canker sore, skip the orange juice and other acidic foods. Scratchy foods like chips and pretzels can also make the mouth feel worse, so avoid those as well. Same for spicy foods.

Here’s an interesting fact about canker sores: they can run in families.

If your family is prone to them, check your dental products to make sure they are free of sodium laurel sulfite. This foaming agent can be irritating to some. Certain medications can also cause mouth issues, which is why we ask what medications patients are taking, both prescription and over-the-counter.

Don’t brush or poke canker sores, and tell your child to leave them alone. Pain relief such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen used as directed can help. If you or your child are having numerous and/or exceptionally painful canker sores, talk to your dental professional for further treatment options.

2657 NW Rolling Green Drive Corvallis | 541.757.2440 valleyvieworthodontics.com

This smile is brought to you by:

WADE L. HASLAM, DMD, PC

mommag.com 7

reimagine your home

In the design phase, we take the time to talk about every inch of your kitchen. We find ways to utilize each and every millimeter of your cabinetry, with innovative blind-corner pieces, hidden trash cans and many other pieces. Working with a designbuild team often gets you facetime with your custom cabinet maker as well, who may have even more creative ideas thanks to years of experience.

There’s a constant stream of clever new items on the market. Explore the possibilities of using electronics in the kitchen, such as a family tablet with either entertainment for idle hands, or even sharing a recipe with small cooks around you. From tablet docking stations to wifi-enabled sink faucets, a good designer will walk you through the pros and cons of new products and how they might work in your space.

WHY DESIGN-BUILDS MAKE SENSE There’s a big difference between hiring a builder versus hiring a design-build firm. The most obvious part is the word “design,” and it’s an important one when it comes to planning your project.

A builder will likely do whatever you ask them to do. But many homeowners get stuck in an endless loop of wondering how to make their space work properly. Kitchens are by far the most popular spaces to remodel, and they bring up loads of questions: Should we take this wall down? Should we put in a pot filler? What type of countertops are best?

A good design-build firm will have an experienced interior designer who will walk your space with you, learn your wants, needs and pain points, then offer suggestions you might not even have considered.

They are able to marry the functionality and aesthetics of a space and hone in on your unique style.

Rylee Henderer | DESIGNER Rylee Henderer grew up around construction job sites, sweeping up endless sawdust in the shop. She formally joined her family’s business in 2017 and learned everything from demolition and framing, to tile and cabinetry installation. From there, Rylee grew into client management, and along the way found a love for design. She is now a full-time designer, creating beautiful, innovative spaces for Henderer Design + Build + Remodel.

One of the distinctive features of design-build firms is the ability to harmonize the design and construction phases. Design-build firms handle everything from permits to coordinating trades. Bringing all scheduling together allows for timeline control, aside from extenuating circumstances, ensuring you have a solid project schedule and end date you can count on.

Leaning on your design-build firm’s years of experience will allow for a lower-stress process. Look for firms with good reputations, especially long-standing ones. Remodeling can be daunting, but a design-build firm simplifies the process.

HENDERER hendererdesignbuild.com / 541-753-5660 info@hendererdesignbuild.com 2350 NW Professional Dr. Corvallis

8 mommag.com 541 753-5660 info@hendererdesignbuild.com 340 SW 2nd Street Suite 2 Corvallis Oregon 97333

Astigmatism or a stigmatism?

Let’s clear this up You’ve likely heard of this term when it comes to eye health, but perhaps its meaning is a bit fuzzy.

First things first, let’s clear up confusion about the word itself: it’s astigmatism (not a stigmatism, as some folks mispronounce). Astigmatism is blurry and distorted vision caused by a curvature of the eye, specifically the lens or cornea.

Think of a normal eye being shaped like a basketball, and an eye with astigmatism being shaped more like an American football.

You can have astigmatism with or without the need for corrective lenses, as astigmatism is a separate condition from near or farsightedness. It tends to run in families, so watch your children for eye strain, headaches and squinting. Don’t skip regular eye exams with an optometrist, as astigmatism can’t be diagnosed in simple eye chart screenings.

In our exams we ask you to look at letters through various lenses and choose which is better, one or two? That’s how we determine the location and measurement of astigmatism, as well as how to correct it with prescription glasses, contact lenses or possibly surgery.

Brought to you by:

Carli Lancaster, OD eyecareassociates.net Albany Willetta St SW (541) 926-5848 Albany Custom Eyes (541) 928-2020

MIDVALLEY BIRTHING SERVICES

Downtown Corvallis (541) 757-1120 NW Corvallis (541) 752-4622 Lebanon (541) 451-5808 Lincoln City (541) 614-0946 Salem (971) 377-2703

Explore the beauty of a home birth.

Free consultations!

Home birth midwifery, birth/postpartum doula services, placenta encapsulation and lactation support Serving Albany, Lebanon, Corvallis, Eugene, Salem and surrounding areas

Julia Bailey CPM, LDM, IBCLC

Liz Baer CPM, LDM

541-928-1002 | midvalbirth@gmail.com | midvalleybirthingservices.com 3111 Santiam Hwy SE, Suite H, Albany & 805 Liberty St. NE, Salem mommag.com 9

play Bond with your teen: unravel fictional cold cases In the era of digital distractions, finding common ground with teens can be a challenge. Playing immersive games is a fun and challenging way to be together.

At Conundrum House, in our Dür laCoque Private Detective Agency experience, we see moms and their teens working together to solve any one of the dozens of cold cases our detectives find themselves facing. It’s a blend of mystery, teamwork and critical thinking.

We suggest you choose a mystery game that aligns with your teen’s interests.

Hunt-a-Killer, or Mysterious Package Company’s Post Mortem series are great choices, featuring intricate plots and realistic evidence. Together, you delve into a story and solve puzzles, bringing a criminal to justice!

Solving a cold case with immersive games like Hunt-a-Killer is more than just play; it’s an opportunity for teamwork, as you share theories, discuss clues and consider each other’s viewpoints. And it’s a fabulous way to improve communication and problemsolving skills.

At Conundrum House, we love watching families discover new ways to bond through immersive play and board gaming. Whatever interests your teenager, Conundrum House will have a game or immersive play experience for both of you. Mention this article, and we’ll give you and your teen a free Play-All-Day pass!

Brought to you by:

In downtown Corvallis at 460 SW Madison Ave. Ste 12

Adrienne Fritze Founder & owner

Visit us online at conundrum.house | 541-224-8114

Party with us!

Check our current events at peakelite.net

Customize your party: • Gym time • Bounce house • Foam pit • Party room • Games • Nerf battles • Obstacle courses

Invite up to 50 kids!

• New party favors • New optional add-ons • Additional party times

6880 Southwest West Hills Road, Corvallis, OR, 97333 | peakelite.net | 541.929.2772

WINE& WHISKERS 2024 CATS, DOGS,

AND ROCK

& ROLL!

GET YOUR TICKETS ONLINE NOW!

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JOIN US!

MAR 16

2024

A GALA FUNDRAISER FOR CH2M HILL

ALUMNI CENTER

CORVALLIS OREGON - 6PM

HEARTLANDHUMANE.ORG/DONATE/WINE-WHISKERS

The importance of dental X-Rays Parents often ask why we recommend their children have dental X-rays taken. While a child’s smile may look healthy, there are parts of the tooth we cannot see with our eyes, such as the supporting structures below the gumline and the tight areas where teeth touch one another.

At a child’s dental visit, we use X-rays to rule out any tricky cavities that might be developing. This allows us to address those cavities while they are small — and before they create extensive damage and pain.

X-rays also give us a picture of how your child’s teeth are developing. While your child has their baby teeth, X-rays allow us to see their hidden permanent teeth and spot any issues with position, size, etc. This information is useful for parents to get an idea of future orthodontic care.

Brought to you by:

Dr. Jay Vaikuntam

pediatricdentistoregon.com 155 NW Hickory St # A Albany, OR 97321 (541) 928-1509

A complete picture of a child’s oral health is established with X-rays, and having a baseline helps as we compare X-rays from previous visits to monitor changes. How often we recommend dental X-rays depends on health history, diet and other factors; your pediatric dental team will guide you in this and many other aspects of your child’s dental care.

Source: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s Guidelines

OSU KIDSPIRIT SPORTS • ART • SCIENCE • COOKING • FUN

Archery

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Gym & Lea

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r Day Ca

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REGISTER ONLINE AT: kidspirit.oregonstate.edu (541) 737- KIDS (5437)

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Sandcastle Preschool

Register for Fall 2024. Visit our website for more information.

Extended hours and options.

Preschool ages 2½ to 5 | 9 a.m. to noon.

541-753-7078 | www.sandcastlepreschool.net 435 NW 21st Street in Corvallis

Top 5 Star SPARK rated program!

CELEBRATING 39 YEARS

Spring Break Adventures Await After-school activities and Spring Break fun for girls ages 10-18.

Learn more. OpheliasPlace.net

Explore Extraordinary!

Prepare your child for life-long educational success Exceptional foundation of core subjects & critical thinking skills Character Education * Service Learning Advanced science & math classes Art, Music, PE, Drama, and 3 world languages Middle school/Lower school Buddy Days Extracurricular opportunities * After school care available

Enrollment is open for the 2024-25 school year!

Ashbrook Independent School 4045 SW Research Way, Corvallis | www.ashbrookschool.org

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Program Summer on! opens so n io t a r t regis

pets are family Your pet needs dental care I’m often asked how to best care for a pet’s teeth (and improve their breath). If you brush your pet’s teeth every day, you will vastly improve their dental hygiene, as well as their overall health and wellness.

When inflamed and red, a pet’s gingiva (the gums) is like an open sore in their mouth — and that can be terribly uncomfortable.

Tartar harbors bacteria that, when allowed to sit on the gumline, increases inflammation and gingivitis. If you can break up and remove that film daily, you will significantly improve your pet’s oral health.

Be sure to use a toothpaste designed for pets, as they will swallow it.

If toothbrushing just isn’t possible, other options include dental diets designed to decrease tartar accumulation, oral rinses designed for pets (they don’t spit) and water additives.

While many people allow their pets to chew bones to help with oral health, these are very hard and the number one cause of broken teeth, especially back molars. For this reason, I do not recommend them.

Brought to you by: Jilinda Lewis, DVM Ark Animal Hospital In partnership with Willamette Veterinary Hospital & Eastgate Veterinary Clinic

If your pet’s teeth or gums are already unhealthy, it’s best to have a professional cleaning before starting home care, as you don’t want toothbrushing time to be painful.

Preventing dental decay is much better than dealing with infected teeth and certainly more comfortable for your beloved pet. Ask your veterinary professionals for guidance.

Coming March 9 at 7pm tickets avalible - whitesidetheatre.org

tor ic· s i ·h

whitesidetheatre.org 361 SW Madison Ave Corvallis

Enjoy family-friendly movies and events, or rent the theatre for a birthday party or a private movie screening. Check our online calendar for current events and tickets! mommag.com 13

Nichole Ashley Moss P ROF E S SION: Beauty supply store owner/

Family comes first.

COMMUNI T Y: Lebanon

All families are unique. Tell us about yours.

When we were just five years old, I met my husband, Tracy. Our older brothers used to hang out, and we both lived in the same neighborhood. It would take me and Tracy over fifteen years to get back in touch after my family moved away. I already had a three-year-old child from a prior relationship by this point.

When I turned 22, I had three children under the age of seven. In April 2006 and March 2007, eleven months apart, Tracy and I had our first two children, Kai and Sarai.

entrepreneur

PA R T NER: Tracy Moss, millwright apprentice CHIL DREN: Nikyra, age 22; Kai, age 17; Sarai, age 16; Connor, age 12; River Sky, age 8; Rayne Sage, age 8

PHOTOS BY: CHRISTY CAMPBELL CREATIVE

When Connor was born in 2011, we had begun discussing moving our family.

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Long Beach was no longer a city we could afford to live in. We always ended up in the ghetto parts of the area. In October of 2014, we moved to Gresham, Oregon, staying a year before relocating to Corvallis. This was around the time we found out we were expecting twins. I was extremely nervous because I didn’t know anyone in the town, and the lack of diversity was a concern. River Sky and Rayne Sage were born in Springfield at just 24 weeks old and spent three months in the NICU. A year later, we discovered one of our twins was slightly different. We assumed she was deaf, but after a fast Google search, we learned Rayne had symptoms of autism.

Any parent knows how challenging it is to

raise a child with ASD. Each and every day is a new learning experience for us all, and after 22 years of being a mother, this is by far the hardest thing I’ve had to deal with.

We also have two dogs. Thorn is our fiveyear-old Coonhound Labrador mix, and we have Spike, our Staffordshire terrier.

When did you know you wanted to be a mom?

From my early childhood, I knew I wanted to have children of my own. Like most girls, I spent a lot of time role-playing and playing with dolls. Since I was not able to grow up with my father at home, I knew that having a mother and a father would be something I wanted for my future children. I would have kids forever if I could. Being around young babies makes it difficult for me to resist the urge to hold them. Any mother will tell you that when she hears another baby cry, mom mode kicks in.

MOM’s Favorite...

Tell us about your favorite…

…family games: King of Tokyo, Settlers of Catan, Clue and Monopoly. We also love to play Mario Kart. …binge-worthy TV: Degrassi: The Next Generation, Trueblood, Breaking Bad, Young Sheldon, Lincoln Heights, Family Matters, Fresh Prince of Bel Air, Martin, Walking Dead, Married with Children and Game of Thrones. …time-saving app or digital tool: Although I have a ton of apps, I always rely on the calendar and notepad on my iPhone. Without those two, I could not survive.

Tell us about one of your proudest mom moments.

My very first proud mom memory was seeing my two-year-old watch me walk across the stage as I was graduating from high school.

I have been a mom for 22 years, so it’s difficult to narrow down my favorite memories.

Another proud mother moment was when my nonverbal child unexpectedly said the colors of the rainbow necklace I was wearing.

Up until that point, she had never said a word, yet she began reciting the colors. I attempted to get her to do it again, but it was a one-anddone situation, and I cried.

Now tell us about one of your most humbling mom moments. One of my most humbling and saddest motherhood experiences was having to make diapers out of plastic bags and maxi pads because we were so broke.

I was a single mother at the age of sixteen, exactly like my mom was. We just couldn’t afford diapers, and Nikyra’s father, a teen himself, refused to help me with anything.

Years later, when I reflect on that moment, it is undoubtedly humbling. It brings tears to my eyes.

In what way are your children like you? How are they different? My oldest daughter, Nikyra, we call her Kyra. She’s the one who saved me. I say that because she was born at a dark period in my life where I struggled with getting bullied, living in a loveless home, and feeling depressed. Her little face was someone I knew who depended on me. Since we are 16 years apart, she’s like a daughter and little sister to me. She’s a

brilliant artist and has her own business called Candy Art Shop. You can find her at local vendor events around town. We both like taking pictures and have a similar fashion sense.

Kai’s turning 18 in April of this year, and I’m devastated about it. He’s constantly on the go and making money. He does whatever I need him to do and drops the kids off from Lebanon to school in Corvallis for me a few times a week. He also picks up his siblings from school and brings them to my store for dad to pick them up. We are alike when it comes to money. He’s a hustler like me.

I love that boy so much.

Sarai is like her older sister. She’s into art and loves anime. We don’t share a lot in common at the age that I am now, but when I was younger, I was like her in many ways. I loved to read books like her, and I loved listening to music. She has posters of anime characters on her wall. I used to have posters of wrestlers like Shawn Michaels all over my wall. She reminds me of how my childhood used to be before I was a mother. She’s polite and kind.

Connor! He’s my video game nerd. He can build a computer, and he’s only 12. He’s the child I share the least in common with, and that’s okay. He’s like his father in many ways. He’s shy and very opinionated at the same time. I often have to give parents disclaimers about how honest he is when leaving him to hang out with friends.

River Sky — she’s another artist. I’m not sure where all of my girls get their artistic abilities from, but at just 8 years of age, she’s talented at drawing and creating stories.

Her mind is full of ideas and questions.

She loves to cuddle with me and show me whatever she’s working on. We are alike because we both like to dance, and she does enjoy helping me cook.

Rayne Sage is my autistic doll. Rayne enjoys singing and climbing. She is remarkably strong for such a small child. Besides looks, we don’t really share anything in common.

Every day is like raising a new child when it comes to Rayne. I’m still learning; that’s something that any parent of an autistic child can relate to. Rayne is a unique individual. She has very little verbal communication skills, but her body language is amazing. She uses her eyes as well to communicate. mommag.com 15

MOMs Love Local

We love locally owned businesses, restaurants, places and organizations. Share your favorite… …shop to pick up a gift for friend: Sunlane Stones Artisan Collective …place to treat yourself: MK Nails, Pure Therapy Massage …restaurant to take the kids: Ai Ramen, Sam City Pho & Grill, Kinto Hibachi …restaurants for a date night: Big Foot Grill, Hangry Solution …take-out, food truck or quick bite: Tallman Brewing, Big D’s County Hog …meetup spot for happy hour: Growler Café, 1847 Bar & Grill, and GameTime Sportsbar, Ixtapa Mexican Restaurant …places where the kids can let off steam: Linn Lanes Bowling Center, Lebanon Indoor Shooting Range, Putters Family Entertainment, Electric Castle’s Wunderland and Pat’s Acres Racing Complex …event in your community: The Strawberry Festival …any other local places you love: Wacky Indoor Bounce House, Splatter Box, and for the older kids, E.E. Wilson Archery Range

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What are you enjoying the most about parenting right now? I adore watching my children grow up. It’s been both wonderful and heartbreaking. I enjoy seeing videos of my older children when they were younger — roughly 2-3 years old — and had squeaky voices. It’s very difficult not to cry.

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?

It is indeed a full-time job to be a full-time mother, especially when you have a child with autism. My little Rayne Sage is like raising three kids in one. A child-sized toddler with teenage strength. My house takes a hit. She alone can destroy things and mess up the house. I need to get better at balancing work, Rayne’s needs and household responsibilities.

Tell us about your work or volunteerism outside of the home. I opened a multicultural ethnic hair store/beauty supply in Corvallis called Soulful Strands Beauty. The idea came from my husband when he heard me complain of spending over $400 in hair care products at a store in Portland. He suggested that since I had just graduated from school, that I look into opening a store locally. I was conflicted on where to open. I thought of Albany and found a spot I really wanted, but when the

landlord of the property I was interested in learned about my credit not being great, I spent another month searching until something came up that I could afford. I knew the business wouldn’t survive in Lebanon due to the lack of diversity, but I figured with Corvallis having black and mixed students at OSU the community could use it, and I know people are tired of making the drive to Portland. My store sells braiding hair extensions, wigs and products geared towards African American hair or curly hair textures. I have secured a small location inside of the Madison Plaza, and I’m right across from the braiding studio Cali’s Hands owned by my friend Christal.

Christal’s customers have come to my store while getting their hair braided to purchase hair extensions because they have run out of hair. If I wasn’t here, they’d have to purchase online or drive to Portland. This is why I am here to make a difference In the community.

I only regret not doing this sooner.

Tell us about a recent achievement you’re proud of, or a personal passion or talent. Graduating from college was one of my biggest achievements. I graduated in June of 2023 and opened my business in November. I am currently going back to school for marketing.

If mom’s not happy, nobody’s happy.

Tell us about your upbringing. How did it shape the mother you are today? My upbringing was anything but ordinary. It was my mother who raised me. Unfortunately, my father’s drug

and alcohol abuse kept him incarcerated, leaving my mother to struggle to care for my brother and me. My mother’s injury and disability forced us to rely on government aid.

I swore to never have the same struggles as my mother because I knew I wanted better for my family. Although I am grateful for everything my mother did, there are moments when I wish I had a stronger upbringing like some of my peers. I was resentful of it as a teenager until I had children of my own. I have gained more respect for my mother.

My father moved to Philomath six years ago to be nearer to me and make up for missed time. Due to liver problems, he sadly passed away in August of 2020, but the brief time he spent with me made up for all the years he was gone.

Where did you grow up, and how did it influence you? Brockton, Massachusetts is where I was born in 1985. We relocated to Long Beach, California, in 1986. This is where I’m from.

Long Beach was undoubtedly an adventure growing up. We resided in the ghetto, where gangs were active. I knew I’d eventually leave for a slower-paced location. I never got into fights as a child, I never got sent to the principal’s office, etc., I just never got into trouble.

I had my first experience with bullying in high school. I had never encountered depression until high school. I was really lonely. Additionally, being a teenage mother did not help my situation.

Being a Long Beach resident made me more conscious of my surroundings. Although I came from a place where gang violence and shootings were a weekly thing, overall, Lebanon is a safe place to live. Long Beach has a lot of positive aspects as well. There is a lot of diversity in my hometown. It’s been an adventure to go from a completely diversified neighborhood to one that is hardly diverse.

I’m glad I was able to grow up and interact with people from different countries.

When did you realize you were no longer a child?

I realized I was no longer a child two months before my 16th birthday when I learned I was pregnant. I wasn’t the type of kid to get pregnant. I had goals; I never missed a day of school. The shock people had and the shame I felt are things I will never get over. It breaks my heart how cruel people can be to kids, especially your peers. I was able to go to a school for troubled kids and teen moms, which was ironic since I was a straight-A student who loved school.

What is the quality you like most about yourself?

I make it a point to give people compliments.

If you could turn any activity into an Olympic sport, in which event would you win a gold medal? If taking pictures with your iPhone were an Olympic sport, I would definitely have a gold medal. Currently, I have over 53,000 pictures and 2,800 videos on my iPhone.

What is your greatest extravagance? I have way too many clothes and struggle with getting rid of clothes. I think I can go four months without wearing something twice.

Listen to mom.

Is motherhood what you expected? What surprised you the most? Motherhood is not what I expected. It is work, real work. The first three kids were the easiest to deal with when small, but the last three made parenting a challenge. Every child is different and I learned fast not to assume just because one child is a breeze to take care of doesn’t mean the other ones will be. I love them all.

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

You are doing the best you can! Remind yourself to trust your instincts and avoid comparing yourself to other mothers. Being a mother doesn’t mean your life is over. A great deal of us lose sight of who we were prior to having children. Remember to live your life.

What’s the best advice you’ve received from another mom? The best advice I ever received was to look after yourself. Just three words but they hold so much meaning. We often let ourselves go as mothers. Self-care is important.

mommag.com 17

18 mommag.com

Saying yes to more birthday parties!

Having a birthday party for your child at Kidspirit offers social learning opportunities, physical activity games and skills growth.

When planning a Kidspirit birthday party, we start by having you choose an activity type: • Gymnastics • Archery • Gym games • Custom parties such as art and crafts On the day of the party, arrive 30 minutes before the start time and Kidspirit staff will put up any decorations you bring. We will also have balloons in the colors of your choice.

Once the children arrive, our staff will lead them to the activity for an hour of fun. After about an hour, we all head back to the birthday room to open presents and eat for about 30 minutes.

Our staff will set up, clean and run the entire party. Moms seem to like this part a lot, as it maximizes the fun for them, too.

Visit us at kidspirit.oregonstate.edu to learn more.

Brought to you by: OSU KidSpirit, OSU Extension & Outreach kidspirit.oregonstate.edu

Karen Swanger Director of OSU KidSpirit

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No bread machine?

No problem!

Simple recipes for baking bread at home

Hearty no-knead bread 3

cups all purpose flour

2

teaspoons instant/rapid rise dry yeast

2

teaspoons kosher salt

1 ½ cups warm water Mix all ingredients in a large bowl with the handle part of a wooden spoon. Cover the bowl with a plate and leave in a warm area to rise for 2 to 3 hours. It should double in volume.

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Put an empty Dutch oven, with its lid on, into the warmed oven for about 15 minutes.

Take out the dutch oven, give it a quick spritz of non-stick spray, then scrape the dough with a soft spatula into it. Put the cover back on and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes and then serve.

Family health bread 1

cup raisins

1

cup boiling water

½

teaspoon baking soda

1

cup milk

1

cup All Bran cereal

1

cup wheat flour

1

cup oatmeal

½

cup brown sugar

½

teaspoon salt

2

Tablespoons molasses

Soak raisins in the boiling water and add baking soda. In a separate bowl, mix all the other ingredients together. Add the raisin mixture to the other ingredients and stir until combined.

Pour batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes at 350 degrees. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before serving.

BANANA QUICK TACO PANCAKES CASSEROLE

Turn that banana frown upside down with banana pancakes!

Quick & delicious dinner ready to go in 20 minutes or less!

1-½ cups all purpose flour 1 tsp. cinnamon ¼ tsp. fresh-grated nutmeg 2-½ tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. salt 1 over-ripe banana, peeled 2 large eggs 1 ¼ cup milk ½ tsp. vanilla extract

½ lb. ground beef ½ small onion, chopped 1 – 9 oz. bag corn chips 1 cup grated cheddar cheese 2 cups shredded lettuce 1 bottle taco sauce or 1 pint salsa Combine flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together egg, milk, and bananas.

Cook ground beef with onion until Stir flour mixture into banana mixture; browned.

Drain excess fat. Coarsely batter will be slightly lumpy. crush corn chips and place in Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium high heat. Pour or scoop bottom of ungreased 8x8” square the batter onto the griddle, using approximately 1/4 cup for each pancake. Cook baking dish. Spoon hot meat over until pancakes are golden brown on both sides; serve hot. chips.

Top with cheese. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. When casserole is heated through, sprinkle with shredded lettuce and serve immediately with taco sauce or salsa.

Open Daily –Two Locations 2855 NW Grant Ave

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support for family

Less clutter, MORE PLAY It’s easy to get caught up in consumer culture that encourages us to buy more and more toys for our children. Walk into any department store, and you’re bombarded with a colorful array of toys promising to make your child happier and more intelligent. However, the truth is that having fewer toys in your home and practicing the art of toy rotation can be a game-changer when it comes to fostering an organized and calm environment for your little ones.

Toy rotation is a method where you periodically switch out a selection of toys on display while keeping the rest stored away. One of the most significant advantages is that it helps reduce clutter in your home. A clutter-free environment allows children to foster creativity and reduces stress for parents who no longer have to navigate through piles of toys.

Moreover, having fewer toys readily available encourages your child to explore and engage more deeply with the toys they do have. When faced with a limited selection, children learn to appreciate and make the most of what they have, which builds resourcefulness and imagination.

They also develop better organizational skills as they learn to care for their toys and keep them in good condition.

In the age of digital distractions, having fewer toys that encourage physical and imaginative play is a valuable choice. It provides an environment where your child can connect with the real world, socialize with others and develop important life skills.

Less clutter, more meaningful play, and happier, imaginative children are just some of the benefits you’ll discover on this journey toward simplifying your child’s play space.

It’s not about the quantity of toys, but the quality of playtime that truly matters.

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

22 mommag.com

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

We

independent movie theaters

The Willamette Valley’s independent movie theaters are bursting with charm.

Independent movie theaters have so much to offer: many show first-run films, serve local food and drink, and are often housed in historic buildings that make for a unique experience. They're perfect for kids (and adults) who want a more cozy atmosphere. Many independent theaters also offer private rentals for parties — just ask.

For date nights, try theaters that are geared more towards adults, such as the Darkside in Corvallis, Salem Cinema in Salem, and Art House in Eugene. Enjoy the show!

“At our sensory sensitive showings, we keep the lights up enough so it’s not too dark. The sound is turned down so it's not too loud, and kids can walk around, dance, talk or make noises.

These showings normally sell out.”

— Jeff Mexico, owner

Northern Lights Theatre Pub Salem

The Whiteside Corvallis

The Kuhn Cinema Lebanon

The Rio Theatre Star Cinema

Sweet Home

Stayton

“Our private auditorium rentals are a great way for younger kids to enjoy a movie theater experience without any obligation to sit still or keep quiet — groups can socialize and move about, and even bring in their own treats, birthday cake, pizza, etc.”

— Edward Schiessl, owner

The Pix Albany

Dallas Cinema Dallas

Independence Cinema Independence

Metro Cinema Eugene

mommag.com 23

Let’s party!

The Willamette Valley is bursting with options for kids’ birthday parties

Y

OUR CHILDREN only get so many youthful birthdays, and you want to make them special. But planning and preparing can feel overwhelming. That’s why having a party at a venue can take a weight off your shoulders: there’s low preparation, dedicated staff to lead games and keep watch over the merry mayhem, and a set end time for festivities. At many places, you just bring cake and enjoy.

ALBANY/CORVALLIS Albany Historic Carousel & Museum Conundrum House Mid-Willamette Family YMCA OSU KidSpirit Peak Elite Gymnastics S&K Wacky Indoor Bounce Santiam Excursion Trains Splatterbox Valley Rock Gym

ADVICE FROM THE PROS… “As a mom and business owner who offers birthday parties and hosts my own, my best advice is keep it simple and think like a kid. Kids love to be with their friends, run around, get their energy and excitement out. Booking a party at a venue that runs the show for you can be a great relief…you may even get to relax and have a little fun yourself!”

— Monée Johnston, owner, Peak Elite in Corvallis

“Our party room is a blank slate giving parents a lot of creative opportunity as they prep the space for their honoree.

We’re happy to answer any questions they may have about setting up the space.”

— Gilbert House Children’s Museum in Salem

EUGENE Adventure! Children’s Museum Bounce Gymnastics and Aerial Arts Crux Rock Gym Dazzling Pony Parties Eugene Family YMCA Eugene Science Center Kidsports Northwest Ninja Park Putters Family Entertainment Center

SALEM Athletic Edge Adventure Park Awesome Indoor Playground Creativitee (decorate apparel) Fantasy Farms (horses) Family YMCA of Marion & Polk Counties Gilbert House Children’s Museum The Kroc Center Rock Boxx Climbing Gym Salem’s Riverfront Carousel

24 mommag.com

LOOKING FOR IDEAS? Check your city’s…

•

Parks & recreation departments

•

Humane societies

•

Libraries

•

Lego retailers, like Bricks & MiniFigs

•

Toy stores

•

Gymnastics academies

•

Escape rooms

•

Bowling alleys

•

Paintball & laser tag

•

Movie theaters, like the ones featured in this issue

•

Good old-fashioned pizza parlors

•

Trampoline parks

•

Soccer parks

•

Martial arts

•

Pottery and art studios

mommag.com 25

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Bread: from gluten-free to grab-and-go Make baking fun, easy and delicious with organic and natural ingredients.

If your house is gluten-free, baking can be just as delicious as traditional baking. And if you don’t have time to bake fresh bread, numerous options are available locally.

Gluten-free baking made easy: All you need is Bob’s Red Mill 1- to-1 Baking Flour. This special blend of certified gluten-free flours, starches and xanthan gum is perfectly formulated so you can use it with no adjustments in your favorite recipes for cookies, cakes, brownies or muffins. Also, look for Bob’s Gluten Free All Purpose Flour — it’s perfect for “rising” to the occasion of making gluten free versions of your favorite yeast-based breads.

The Essential Take & Bake: The Essential Baking Company’s Take & Bake Bread is made from simple, certified organic ingredients leavened with a signature sourdough starter that traces back to the Gold Rush. Look for French Baguette, Rosemary Loaf, Italian Loaf and others at the Co-op. We can attest that it smells terrific!

Have questions about baking or other grocery needs? Our knowledgeable staff is here to answer all your questions and offer tasty suggestions.

Come to First Alternative Natural Foods Co-op for all of your grocery needs. It’s the natural choice.

Two locations in Corvallis 1007 SE 3rd • 541-753-3115 2855 NW Grant • 541-452-3115 Open daily www.firstalt.coop

Jasmin Woodside of First Alternative Co-op and her children.

mommag.com 27

T It’s more than a home.

It’s your best memories in the making.

Here to help with all your real estate needs.

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.

Meet Dr. Austin Brunson Dr. Austin Brunson has joined the practice of Dr. Jeffrey Carl. Dr. Brunson was born and raised in Albany and is deeply rooted in our local communities. He graduated from West Albany High School and then from Oregon State University. During school Dr. Brunson worked locally at O’Brien Dental Lab before attending dental school at the Roseman University of Health Sciences. He has a kind heart, a warm smile and is committed to providing excellent patient care as well as outstanding dentistry.

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New patients are always welcome. Schedule today by calling 541-926-6089.

28 mommag.com

partners in education

Memory matters School success relies on two cognitive functions: short-term memory and long-term memory.

Short-term “working” memory is the ability to hold information, manage it and then use that information again in a short period of time. Long-term memory includes the ability to store information and later retrieve it, such as remembering vocabulary, creating a series of ideas, and being able to memorize things like speeches, poems or math facts.

As a parent you can help your children strengthen their short- and long-term memory muscles. Play games together like card memory, Scattergories, bingo or Simon says. Help your child make lists of tasks to implement or grocery items to remember when you get to the store, without writing them down.

Reciting song lyrics, home phone numbers/addresses and short poems are all useful activities. After your child reads for a while, stop them to ask about what they can recall from the story.

Finding fun ways to strengthen memory will help your child develop strategies that support them in school and far into the future.

Brought to you by:

www.santiamchristian.org 541-745-5524 x 243

Anna Marie Gosser Santiam Christian Elementary Principal

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Listen to your body

When you pay attention to your body, you are more in tune with your health and well‑being. You know your own body best, and its signals are keys to feeling good and living fully.

You listen to your body, and the obstetrics and gynecology providers of Samaritan Health Services listen to you.

Let’s listen together so we can provide the care, healing and support you need to thrive.

Learn more at samhealth.org/Listen.

Obstetrics & Gynecology

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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