Ann Arbor Family December 2014

FREE December 2014

Holiday Hullabaloo

p9

The most wonderful time of the year and the best places to spend it!

Living Life on Purpose

Dr. Victor Strecher on moving forward p8 after loss

Holiday Gift Guide We have ideas when you don’t!

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A Peaceful Stepfamily p15 Holiday Five tips to avoid hair-pulling moments

ONE-ON-ONE

Individualized Center-Based Treatment Now Enrolling New Clients Call Us to Schedule a Tour Half or Full Day Ages 2-8

Here’s whats coming up in

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January

TOP DOCS January 1 Issue Date: reserve ad/edit space

by December 15

Showcase your prestigious health care professionals and receive FREE BONUS editorial space.

Offering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy services for children with autism or other developmental disorders

SHOWCASE LOCAL PRINCIPALS, SUPERINTENDENTS AND ACADEMIC LEADERS THAT ARE PAVING THE WAY FOR EDUCATION IN

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(734) 926-0740

reserve ad/edit space by December 15 Make sure the head of your school is part of this special section!

734.668.4044

LEARN MORE AT CREATINGBRIGHTERFUTURES.COM

NOW OPEN IN YPSILANTI

A compassionate and caring dental team. We build lasting relationships with you and your child.

When should I take my child to the dentist for the first check-up?

In order to prevent dental problems, your child should see a pediatric dentist when the first tooth appears, or no later than his/her first birthday.

- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

Dr. Sullivan is a board certified Diplomat of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and licensed Pediatric Dental Specialist. She enjoys giving back to her community, volunteer work with the Special Olympics-Special Smiles program, and educational school visits.

SCHEDULE A VISIT TODAY!

1820 Washtenaw Avenue Ypsilanti, Michigan 48197 734-429-5433

WashtenawPediatricDentistry.com 2

Stacy Sullivan, DDS, MS

• December 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

Volume 19 • Issue 12 December 2014

[special features]

Holiday Hullabaloo The most wonderful time of the year and the best places to spend it!

[departments] community snapshots

5

what’s briefly happening

6

new kids on the block

7

ask the expert

7

calendar 18

compiled by Marisa Rubin

marketplace 19

parent profile

We have ideas when you don’t!

Five tips to avoid hair-pulling moments

Living Life on Purpose Dr. Victor Strecher on moving forward after loss

R E NT A P TALK

Online DECEMBER

Make the most of the holiday season with these helpful hints online!

Holiday Reading Room Renew an interest in reading with sixteen great books for kids over their holiday break.

Restore your spirit and find the energy to keep your New Year’s resolutions going!

8

15

13

9

Soul Support: Four Ways to Bolster Your Spirit

[commentary]

A Peaceful Stepfamily Holiday

Holiday Gift Guide

[Always online]

FIND LIKE AND FOL LOW US

What is the best place in Ann Arbor to admire Christmas lights and decorations?

Kerrytown.

Lesley Starr Hundley Downtown Ann Arbor!

Kelly Loe

by Heather Gilmore

breaking dad

16

Bring your Own Technology

On the cover

guide

A tech program in question

Madison Jo, 2, Ann Arbor

Mary Melendez - Photography by 3m

by Jeremy Rosenberg

food fight

Crowd-Pleasing Favorites Fresh flavors and a lively atmosphere at Oscar’s

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See our 2014 Education Guide online to find great schools for your family and see what local students think would make a perfect place to learn and grow!

annarborfamily.com Join us and our 600+ followers for laughs, updates & parenting discussions.

“Like” us on facebook.com/annarborfamily

I love driving around the neighborhoods in Saline.

Kelly Robertson Notar

Look for next month’s ParentTalk question on Facebook!

by Katy M. Clark

www.annarborfamily.com • December 2014 •

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Adams Street Publishing Co. What’s on the top of your list for Santa this year?

Publisher/Editor in Chief Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) A sunny vacation with my husband

November 22December 20

By Sue Lovett Sagittarian kids are always happy if they are given “space” to do their own thing. They are very curious and the most creative sign of the zodiac. They have super imaginations and are content to build, cut, paste and make some of their own cards and paper necklaces. They are fascinated to hear about foreign countries and may try to dig a hole to China in the backyard. They love animals, especially horses. They seem to take on every challenge, which can be difficult for parents to understand.

LEARN TO SKATE BASIC SKILLS GROUP LESSONS

Parents should remember that they resent strict time limits. Try to give them a 15 minute warning when meals will be served, when it is time to go to bed or to clean up their area. Often the Sagittarian child will spin a globe to find places around the world. Learning a second language (even sign language) is fun as long as they do not have to sit still for any length of time. They are extremely bright eyed, friendly and creative. Encourage them to make their own Christmas cards and gifts.

WINTER 2014

TUESDAY & THURSDAY: 6:15PM – 7:05PM SATURDAY: 10:15AM – 11:05AM 11:15AM – 12:05PM / FOR AGES 3 THROUGH ADULT

NEW! REGISTER ON-LINE AT: ANNARBORFSC.ORG

HOLIDAY EXHIBITION

Sunday, December 14, 2014 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) A sunny vacation with my wife

Editorial

Assignment Editor: Nadine Hariri (nadine@adamsstreetpublishing.com) A healthy baby in February!

Calendar: Marisa Rubin (mrubin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) seven more days so I get as many presents as Hanukkah Social Media Specialist: Saul Jacobs (saul@adamsstreetpublishing.com) A 1976 Cadillac El Dorado Convertible Contributing Writers: Lisa Carolin, Heather Gilmore, Jennifer Eberbach, Sarah Mayle, Jeremy Rosenberg, Katy M. Clark

Art/Production

Art Director: Margaret Kelly (mkelly@adamsstreetpublishing.com) a new puppy Senior Designer: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) A car Production Manager: Brittney Koehl (adsin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) A new phone Graphic Design: Chelsie Parton (chelsie@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Homemade apple pie

Advertising Sales Manager: Aubrey Hornsby (ahornsby@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Two trips to Cancun Account Executives: John Nordlinger (nord@adamsstreetpublishing.com) For Christ to be the main reason for the season!

Ellen Weiss (ellen@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Good Scotch, warm stockings and peace on earth Sales Coordinator: Molly Davis (mdavis@adamsstreetpublishing.com) A warm and safe holiday for everyone!​ Customer Service Representative: Joseph South (jsouth@adamsstreetpublishing.com) 50 gallon oak wine barrels

Administration

Accounting: Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) Car seat heater please Distribution: Saul Jacobs (saul@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Follow us on Facebook, Twitter AND PINTEREST

STARTS WEEK OF JANUARY 5TH

Please join us at our

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer

Ann Arbor Figure Skating Club Is proud to be home to the

SPECIAL OLYMPICS FIGURE SKATING TEAM For AREA 20 WASHTENAW COUNTY

facebook.com/annarborfamily twitter.com/annarborfamily pinterest.com/aafam

Advertising/General Info: For advertising

and general information, call (734) 668-4044 or fax (734) 668-0555. E-mail ads to adsin@annarborfamily.com Ann Arbor Family subscriptions are available by mail for $28/quarterly or $75 per year at Ann Arbor Family, 3003 Washtenaw, Suite 3, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104.

Letters to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are subject to editing and should include the writer’s full name and phone number.

Entire contents © 2014 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

Also publishers of:

The AAFSC Office is located in the Ann Arbor Ice Cube 2121 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor

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Member

Home Club of the AAFSC HOCKETTES 4

• December 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

recycle this paper for our children's future ...

COMMUNITY

SNAPS by fawn Photography Dream Catcher Captured by

Lotus Moore, 4, Dog Roxie, 2, Ann Arbor

DECEMBER GIVEAWAY

The countdown for the December giveaway begins now!

You have this month to enter for a chance to win this month’s prize package. A cupcake making game and magical book reader will be given away all courtesy of Ann Arbor Family!

Cupcake Race

by Endless Games

Be the first player to MIX, BAKE, FROST, and TOP your cupcake by visiting all four corners, and collect sprinkles along the way.

Sparkup Magical Book Reader PHOTO BY FINN PHOTO GRAPHY

Enables parents to create personalized audio recordings of any illustrated children’s book, so that the kids in their lives can listen, read along and feel connected at any time.

The Goa family Grady and Kara from Temperance, , with Emerson, 4, Co kids, Grady, 6, oper & Gunnar ,2

We’re always looking for great photos to fill our community snaps page...Send us your best

6, Juan DePena, hip ns Ypsilanti Tow

Enter online at annarborfamily.com for a chance to win. December 1 through December 31.

production@ adamsstreet publishing.com www.annarborfamily.com • December 2014 •

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Compiled by Lisa Carolin

Book for the Kristy Kurjan knows how important nap time is for kids and parents.

The Traverse city mom of two-yearold twin boys decided to take on the challenge of getting her boys to nap with a colorful book that she created called “Nap-a-Roo.” She said that reading “good night” books felt strange in the middle of the day.

Kurjan’s mom, a preschool teacher, always added the syllable “a-roo” to the end of words. That and Kurjan’s desire to write a book inspired her to create “Nap-a-Roo.” “With colorful images and imaginative text, your little one will fall in love with the story,” said Kurjan. “It makes sleepy time special for children and parents.” Illustrated by Tyler Parker, Kurjan says that she loves that his characters have distinctive personalities. She wrote the text in a rhythmical tempo and selected the book’s six-inch square size so that toddlers can easily hold the book.

“Nap-A-Roo” is available at the Little Seedling store, 2121 W. Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor.

734-418-2392. www.kpocreative.com.

Photos Ashley D Scheider /hikeitbaby.com

ZZZ’z

Build a Love for the Outdoors A national organization encourages women and their children to get outside, enjoy nature and be active as soon as possible after giving birth. Hike it Baby has launched in the Ann Arbor area in an effort to reduce the effects of postpartum depression in new mothers and create a support system for the community. It will help families discover the beauty of nature in their neighborhoods and teach children to appreciate the outdoors from an early age. Ypsilanti mom Annie Furtado is a former environmental educator and was introduced to the idea by a family member. After discovering that Ann Arbor did not offer anything similar, she took it upon herself to contact the founder, Shanti Hodges, and the next day a Facebook group was created and members came quickly. Hike it Baby currently hosts weekly Sunday Strolls and has plans to host “New Mom” hikes, “Preschool Hikes” and “Dad Hikes” in the future.

For more information, visit www.hikeitbaby.com or www.facebook.com/groups/hikeitbabyannarbor.

Hands-On Farming Fun

The experience of hands-on farming is now available to people of all ages at FireSign Family Farm, a 53-acre farm located in Webster Township.

The farm raises livestock in a natural environment and uses organic farming methods. According to owner Ruth Ehman, “This is not a petting farm experience. This is a real, operating, full-time farm. It is a passion of mine to share my blessing here and educate people where their food is coming from.” Activities at the farm include tending the livestock, vegetable gardening, bread baking, hand milking, and cheese, butter and yogurt making. Classes and activities are seasonal and weather dependent. Livestock includes dairy cows and goats, beef cattle, broiler and egg laying chickens, turkey, sheep, pigs and horses. FireSign Family Farm is wheelchair accessible and welcomes groups and individuals with special needs.

National Blue Ribbon School Recognition King Elementary School in Ann Arbor has been recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School for 2014 by the United States Department of Education. The school is being lauded for academic excellence and for closing achievement gaps among minority student groups. It is one of eight schools in Michigan honored, and the first Ann Arbor Public School to receive a Blue Ribbon Award. According to Sarah Wentzloff, teacher clerk at King, the school celebrated being named a National Blue Ribbon School at a November 21 event. “We will have a few people attend the Blue Ribbon ceremony in Washington, D.C. this winter,” she said. The school is named for Dr Martin Luther King, Jr. and follows his philosophy that all people count and all people matter.

The school is 47 percent Asian, 38 percent Caucasian, and 15 percent students of other ethnic heritage. King Elementary School students celebrate International Night annually in the spring with cultural performances and activities.

King Elementary School, 3800 Waldenwood Dr., Ann Arbor. 734-994-1940. www.a2schools.org/king.home/home.

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• December 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

Appointments prior to visiting are strongly recommended. FireSign Family Farm, 7500 Trotters Lane, Whitmore Lake, 734-449-0247, www.firesignfamilyfarm.com.

Ask the Expert New Owners at Nicola’s Books Nicola's Books in Ann Arbor was acquired

by Schuler Books, a local team consisting of husband and wife with a passion for literacy, this past summer though the store has retained its name. Nicola's continues to offer all the same services and special events. According to Nicola's Events Manager Lynn Riehl, the change in ownership does not affect the customers day to day experience at the store. "We are still offering storytimes every Saturday at 11am," said Riehl. "On Tuesday, December 2, at 10am, Bad Kitty, the children's book character, will visit the store." Riehl says that Nicola's will continue to have the Huron Valley Humane Society bring an adoptable dog to the store the third Saturday of every month. "Rikki, the reading therapy dog, will also visit monthly to help kids get more comfortable with reading out loud," she said. Schuler Books is based in Grand Rapids and was founded in 1982 by Bill and Cecile Fehsenfeld, both University of Michigan graduates, who met working as booksellers in Ann Arbor.–LC Nicola's Books, Westgate Shopping Center, 2513 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor.

734-662-0600. www.nicolasbooks.com.

Froyo for Families "Froyo" is gaining popularity in Ann Arbor thanks in part to the addition of two Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt stores that opened this year. The menu includes frozen yogurt flavors from peanut butter to peach, and chocolate mint to mango. The first local shop opened in the Traver Village Shopping Center on Plymouth Road in March, and the second shop opened at the corner of South Main Street and Ann Arbor-Saline Road in April.

Danielle MacFarlan, manager for the South Main store, says, "We have some really loyal customers who know us and love our product. We like to change flavors often to create a buzz." New frozen yogurt flavors in December include gingerbread, peppermint, and pumpkin spice latte. All of Orange Leaf's yogurt is gluten-free except for the cookies and cream flavor, and the store offers two dairy-free options at all times. "It's a fun atmosphere so parents like to bring kids here," said MacFarlan. "Kids get to make their own froyo, and parents like to use yogurt as a reward." Orange Leaf offers 18 flavors of frozen yogurt prepared fresh daily. The store has 300 locations in the U.S. and six in Michigan. The company's community giving programs support charitable organizations for children with an emphasis on education. “We offer opportunities to use us for fundraising," said MacFarlan, who adds that the store ran a canned food drive for Thanksgiving.–LC Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt, 2216 South Main St., Ann Arbor, 734-369-4362 and 2613 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor, 734-531-6686. www.orangeleafyogurt.com

Breastfeeding 101

Common questions answered

At what point during pregnancy do women usually start producing milk?

Most mothers will be bertson, able to hand express with Barbara D. Ro r of ne MA, IBCLC, ow a drop or two (and I nter Ce ng di mean just a drop!) of The Breastfee r bo Ar n An of colostrum in their last trimester of pregnancy, which is the first milk a mother has. This thick, sticky, and yellowish milk is loaded with protection for the baby. It helps get their immune system going, is a laxative to help get out the meconium and seal off the baby’s gut to protect it. Some mothers will actually leak colostrum during their pregnancies and other mothers never see their colostrum during pregnancy.

Why is breastfeeding so beneficial for mom and baby?

For the baby, there will be a reduced numbers of ear infections, hospitalizations, asthma and type 2 diabetes, risk of obesity and certain types of cancers later in life.

Mom’s benefits include losing weight more quickly after pregnancy, reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, certain reproductive cancers, heart disease, postpartum depression and some autoimmune diseases. Breastfeeding is one of the greenest things that can be done. The food goes directly from manufacturer to customer, no packaging required!

How can you increase milk production?

This is a tricky question. Because each mother and baby are different. A lot of information is needed before helpful suggestions can be made. The best way to figure this out is to meet with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). They have special training to help pinpoint where the trouble might be.

It does cost you, but it is an excellent investment. If a mother is feeling like she does not have enough breast milk, she should get help right away to discuss the best approach for her and her baby. There is no one size fits all in this case!

The Breastfeeding Center of Ann Arbor 726 Brooks St., Ann Arbor. 734-975-6534. www.bfcaa.com.

www.annarborfamily.com • December 2014 •

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Providing centerbased ABA therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy to children aged 18 months to 10 years old.

Intensive communication based ABA programs created and supervised by dually-certified behavioral analyst/speech-language pathologists

Morning, afternoon, and evening sessions available.

Contact us to tour our facility, meet our team, or inquire about insurance coverage

(734) 769-0505 www.a2spectrumtherapy.com 1955 Pauline Blvd | Suites 100C & 400 | Ann Arbor, MI 48103

Living Life On Purpose

Dr. Victor Stecher on moving forward after loss

by Heather Gilmore

The service you need, at home One on One Therapy • ABA Programs • Feeding Services Sleep Consultation • Toilet Training • Parent Education

Need time this holiday season?

Let us help you with our home care support

The highest level of service to your child and family

Dr. Victor Strecher, University of Michigan School of Public Health professor, shares his inspirational story after losing his 19-year-old daughter in 2010 to a rare heart condition. Since then, he has focused his life on learning and teaching about living a life with purpose and a “transcendental meaning.”

“The key to living a better life is living with a focus on giving rather than taking,” Dr. Strecher said. In an attempt to live in a more transcendent way, he encourages people to think about things bigger than themselves, helping people become less defensive, leading to a healthier, more positive lifestyle. It also increases lifespan, happiness, resilience in stressful events and overall health, he said.

He has pondered why people refrain from making changes when they know things are not good for them. He helps people make healthy changes in their lives. Based on his research, Strecher believes that human beings get “defensive and protect their ego, self identity and who they think they are.”

“Our society has become increasingly nihilistic,” Dr. Strecher said. “It has become a place with less focus on a true meaning in life.”

He has found that different populations can benefit from learning more about living life with purpose and with meaning larger than themselves. He speaks in retirement homes, businesses, high schools, universities, and many other groups.

Asked what he would tell young people in search of their identity, Strecher said, “An unexamined life is not worth living. Ask why am I here and think about what you’re going to do in your brief time here on earth.”

One thought-provoking idea he presents- think about what you would want written on your tombstone and consider the legacy you will leave.

Dr. Strecher wrote a book called “On Purpose” about philosophy and your health and how to change your life. He has created a free app, as well. The book is available on Amazon, at Literati and Nicola’s Books. www.dungbeetle.org.

734.545.6335 • info@earlyautismservices.com www.autismtherapymichigan.com 8

• December 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

Warm your hearts on cold days at these festive December events Parades, carolers, tree lightings, artisan markets, visits with Santa, and other happenings capture the spirit of the holiday season. The list below shows you the way to carry your sleigh to some fun and family-friendly activities.

By Jennifer Eberbach December 1, 8, & 15

The Santa Express

10am & 12:30pm The Old Road 301 E. Adrian St., Blissfield 1-888-467-2451 www.murdermysterytrain.com Join them for a special 90-minute train ride with Santa and his friend, Jingles the Elf! Enjoy cookies and milk, and lots of activities for kids. Each visitor will have their own personal visit with Santa during the train ride. Boarding starts 15 minutes before the train leaves. $21/ adults, $19/seniors, $16/children 2-12.

Friday-Sunday, December 5-7

Chelsea Hometown Holidays

Various times and locations Downtown Chelsea 734-475-1145, chelseafestivals.com Marvel at the light parade, visit Santa’s workshop, attend a tree lighting ceremony in Pierce Park. There are holiday craft sales, music and theater performances, luminaries, and many more activities during the 3-day citywide festival. Plus, gingerbread houses will be on display at participating merchants December 4 through December 20.

Saturday, December 6

Sing-Along with Santa Friday, December 5

Kerrytown Kindlefest

6-10pm Kerrytown Market and Shops 315 Detroit St., Ann Arbor 734-662-5008, www.kerrytown.com A Children’s Lantern Parade will take off from the Farmers Market. An outdoor holiday market will feature handcrafted gifts and artisan-made food, accompanied by live music, fire pits, a heated tent, and other goodies. Midnight Madness shopping inside Kerrytown Shops.

4pm Bethlehem United Church of Christ 423 S. 4th Ave., Ann Arbor 734-994-4801, www.a2so.com Join the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra to sing carols and Christmas favorites with Santa and piano accompaniment.

Get your picture with Santa and enjoy cookies and cider at the show. This is a ticketed event. $12/adults, $8/kids, $35/families (up to 6). continued on p. 10

Friday, December 5

Ypsi Christmas Tree Lighting

6-7:30pm Ypsilanti District Library Plaza 229 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti 734-482-4110, www.daypsi.com & www.ypsilibrary.org Caroling with hot cocoa will get you in the holiday mood at the Downtown Association’s annual tree lighting ceremony. Santa is going! A First Fridays art crawl of art and music events is the same night, from 6-10pm.

www.annarborfamily.com • December 2014 •

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communitysnapshots

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Saturday, December 6

Milan Christmas Parade

WANTED! CUTE KIDS

We want to publish your photos in our paper! Send pics with names, age and hometown to production@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Ongoing Events December 1-January 4

Lights Before Christmas

Sunday–Thursday 3-8pm, Friday and Saturday 3-9pm Toledo Zoo 2 Hippo Way, Toledo 419-385-4040, www.toledozoo.com Come enjoy the frolicking light show and promenading carolers, meet Santa until he leaves for the North Pole on December 24, and rejoice in the glow of the Big Tree. Cooler climate animals will also be out on display for little elves to enjoy! $11/ages 12-59, $8/seniors 60+, $8/children 2-11, Free/kids under 2.

Through December 21

Christmas Caroled

Thursdays at 7pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 3&8pm, Sundays at 3pm The Encore Musical Theatre Company 3126 Broad St., Dexter 734-268-6200 www.theencoretheatre.org A new Christmas musical gives a unique take on a traditional holiday musical, Christmas Caroled borrows from a classic tale, wraps its story around an old-fashioned Christmas special and presents itself as a glittering evening of musical theatre. The show includes favorites such as White Christmas, The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, I’ll be Home for Christmas, Carol of the Bells, O Holy Night and many more beloved songs of the season. $22-$32.

December 2–January 4

Frostology

Tuesday–Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday Noon-5pm Imagination Station 1 Discovery Way, Toledo 419-244-2674 www.imaginationstationtoledo.org Come and take part in the slippery science of snow, as Santa’s little elves create works and crafts from paper holidaythemed activities. The chilly theme will continue through the month of December during regular business hours.

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• December 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

6pm Main St., Milan 734-439-7932, www.milanchamber.org Santa will be riding in on the Boogie Woogie Choo Choo Train, along with floats, bands, and other festive parade walkers. There will be a City Christmas tree lighting and much more, at Milan’s annual downtown celebration. This year’s theme is “Christmas Around the World.”

Saturday, December 6

Christmas at the Mansion

10am-5pm Gordon Hall 8431 Island Lake Rd., Dexter 734-426-4961, dextermuseum.org The historical home of village founder Judge Samuel Dexter gets decked out for the holidays with festive Christmas decorations. Make and take home a country craft, visit with Santa, and enjoy refreshments at this Dexter Area Historical Society event. Suggested donation $5. Also, pop on over to a Holiday Bazaar of handcrafted gifts at the Dexter Area Historical Museum (9am-3pm, 3443 Inverness St., Dexter).

Saturday, December 6

Saline Holiday/Christmas Parade

5:30pm Michigan Ave. and various locations in downtown Saline 734-429-4494, www.salinechamber.org Saline’s parade kicks off Holiday Week with a bang. There will likely be all sorts of floats, bands, baton twirlers, animals, and much more. Santa arrives on his sleigh and then heads over to Santa’s Village (Dec. 6-9 at Stone Arch Arts and Events; 117 S. Ann Arbor Street). This year’s theme is “Your Favorite Christmas Memories.”

Saturdays, December 6, 13 & 20

Santa Visits Kerrytown

10am-2pm Kerrytown Market and Shops 315 Detroit St., Ann Arbor 734-662-5008, kerrytown.com Have you been naughty or nice? Santa visits Kerrytown every Saturday leading up to Christmas. Live musical performances by local school groups, musicians, and choral groups ring in the season.

Saturday & Sunday, December 6 & 7

Friday, December 12

Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday Noon-4pm Waterloo Farm Museum 13493 Waterloo Munith Rd., Grass Lake 517-596-2254 www.waterloofarmmuseum.org Travel back in time to the pioneer days and Victorian era at one of Waterloo’s first homesteads. The ten-room farmhouse, outbuildings, and nearby Dewey one-room schoolhouse get decked out with period Christmas decorations, historical re-enactors, fresh baked goods cooking on the original wood burning stove, and guided tours. Free admission for members and children under 5. $5/ adults (non-members), $2/children ages 5-12.

8pm Hill Auditorium 825 N. University Ave., Ann Arbor 734-994-4801, www.a2so.com Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra’s new holiday tradition features high school choral singers from Pioneer and Huron, the Boychoir of Ann Arbor, and men’s choral group, Measure for Measure.

Tickets range from $10 to $45.

Christmas on the Farm

Sundays, December 7, 14, 21

Holiday Classics Film Series

1:30pm Michigan Theater 603 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor State Theater 233 S. State St., Ann Arbor 734-668-8463, www.michtheater.org Some modern holiday classics will be screened at the Michigan Theater and State Theater, for free! “Miracle on 34th Street� (December 7 at the State Theater), “Elf� (December 14 at the Michigan Theater), and “It’s a Wonderful Life�

(December 21 at the Michigan Theater) will be shown during this year’s State Street Area Association film series.

Thursday, December 11

PJ’s & Stories with Santa

6-7 & 7:30-8:30pm Saline Rec Center 1866 Woodland Dr., Saline 734-429-3502 All little boys and girls are invited for a very special evening of holiday fun.

Wear your favorite pair of pajamas and get cozy as one of the Saline District Library’s storytellers reads holiday stories.

You will sing songs, do crafts and have milk, cookies and hot chocolate. $12/child day of event.

Friday, December 12

Festive Friday

Main Street, Downtown Ann Arbor mainstreetannarbor.org Live entertainment will sing and dance its way down Main Street as onlooker’s eyes light up! Acts include a cappella groups, breakdancers and carolers.

A2SO Holiday Pops Concert

Saturday, December 13

Holiday Hustle

Monument Park Baker Rd. and Main St., Dexter 734-929-9027, runholiday5k.com Running Fit’s annual festive and familyfriendly 1 mile fun run (4:15pm) and 5K (4:30pm) will start from Monument Park.

Santa Claus will be at the Monument Park pavilion before the races start. Holiday sweaters and costumes are encouraged. The first 500 people to register get flashing swag (hats and necklaces that light up). $5/person. Sign up as a family (up to 5) and save $2.50 a person on registration fees.

Saturday, December 13

Treasure Trail to Santa

10am-1:30pm Busch’s Shopping Center E. Michigan Ave., Saline 734-429-4494, www.salinechamber.org Follow a treasure map to Santa around the shops at the Saline Busch’s Shopping Center. Visit Santa, ride in a horsedrawn carriage, pet animals, and enjoy performers and other entertainment. Pick up a treasure map at Physical Therapy in Motion (505 E. Michigan Ave.).

Saturday, December 13

Breakfast with Santa

8-10am Briarwood Mall 100 Briarwood Cir, Ann Arbor 734-761-9550 www.simon.com/mall/briarwood-mall Have breakfast with Santa and support a great cause! All proceeds will go toward the #ChadTough Fund for pediatric brain tumor research in honor of Chad Carr, the 4-year-old grandson of former U-M football coach Lloyd Carr who was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. $20/person.

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continued on pg. 12

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Saturday, December 13

Thursday, December 18

9:30-11am 2855 Boardwalk Dr., Ann Arbor 734-973-1014 www.lamazefamilycenter.org All little ones will celebrate at a baby/ toddler-friendly Santa party at Lamaze Family Center. There will be plenty of time for free play and games, and children will have the opportunity to make a craft, share a treat and meet Santa. For an additional fee of $30, local photographer Julie Morrison will also be on hand to take photos with Santa. Families opting for photos will receive two free prints, and they can purchase additional photos/photo products from Julie’s website. $12/person.

7:30pm Towsley Auditorium at Washtenaw Community College 4800 E. Huron River Dr., Ypsilanti 734-481-9285, ypsicommchoir.org Joyous holiday songs performed by Ypsilanti Community Choir with special guest The Motor City Brass Band, and more tunes by the BDQ jazz quintet. WEMU radio personality Linda Yohn hosts this annual tradition.

Milk & Cookies with Santa

Sunday, December 14

Frosty on Ice Skates

1-2:30pm Veterans Ice Arena 2150 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor 734-794-6235, www.a2gov.org Frosty The Snowman will be lacing up his ice skates and hitting the Vet’s Park ice rink. Skate with Frosty and get your picture taken with him during a meet and greet. Free candy canes for skaters of all ages. General admission. Skate rentals available on site.

Sunday, December 14

Santa Central

10am-4:30pm Hudson Mills Metropark 8801 N. Territorial Rd., Dexter 734-426-8211, www.metroparks.com/ Hudson-Mills-Metropark Come play reindeer games, take a hayride, and visit with Santa. Choose between one of three two-hour sessions (10am, 12:30pm, or 2:30pm). Make a day of it by exploring Dexter’s beautiful parkland. Buy tickets in advance at the park office or call to preregister. $6/ child, $3/adult. Bring your own camera or purchase a photo with Santa for $2.

Thursday, December 18

One Candle for Tzedakah

6-8pm Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor 2935 Birch Hollow Dr., Ann Arbor 734-971-0990, www.jccannarbor.org Share in a community dinner during Hanukkah, which will feature a professional magician. Fun activities, crafts, and games will follow dinner. The Center is also participating in a Toys for Tots drive. $15/families, $5/individuals.

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• December 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

Songs of the Season

Saturday, December 20

Nature Tales - A Chilly Tale

10-11am Leslie Science and Nature Center 1831 Traver Rd., Ann Arbor 734-997-1553, www.lesliesnc.org Bring your little ones (ages 1-5) to this story time and nature activities event.

“A Warm Winter Tale” by Carrie A. Pearson tells of how animals adapt to the cold. Hands-on, nature-themed activities, including live animal visits, follow after story time. $4 per child (non-member) $3/child for LSNC members.

Preregistration is encouraged.

Saturday, December 20

Make a Sock Snow Person

2pm-3pm Malletts Creek Branch of the Ann Arbor District Library 3090 E. Eisenhower Parkway, Ann Arbor 734-327-4200, www.aadl.org Get crafty and learn how to turn one of your socks into a snow person doll. This kids’ workshop at the library is intended for grades K-5.

December 22, 23, 29 & 30

Winter Break Movie Matinees

2pm Ypsilanti Library Whittaker Branch 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti 734-482-4110, www.ypsilibrary.org Take your little ones to watch a matinee and have popcorn. Movies include Frozen, The Lego Movie, Muppets Most Wanted and Disneynature Bears.

Cookie Dough Cheer

Holiday Gift Guide

Among Friends Baking Mixes

3660 Plaza Dr. Suite 4, Ann Arbor 734-997-9720 www.amongfriendsbakingmixes.com

Among Friends handcrafted baking mixes are the perfect way to spread holiday cheer—and glorious whole grain taste. Choose from eight mixes, five gluten-free mixes and four classic whole wheat mixes. Your family and friends will love having pantry-ready, lower sugar mixes on hand for neighbors and guests, or just to indulge themselves.

Explore Little Worlds

Don’t get stumped on what to get family and friends this holiday season

Ever feel overwhelmed when it comes to getting the perfect gift? Ann Arbor Family removes the stress of wondering whether your little ones, parents or friends will love what they unwrap. Our Holiday Gift Guide provides ideas for how to bring smiles to everyone’s face this Christmas.

Elephant Ears

415 N. 5th Ave., Ann Arbor 734-622-9580 www.elephantearsonline.com Children love to explore their world, and what better way than on four wheels. Elephant Ears has great options this holiday season for the children in your life. One of our favorite holiday presents is the Wheely Bug by Prince Lionheart, which is available in two sizes, ideal for toddlers and preschoolers.

Choose from seven adorable animal options, our favorite being the Mouse because of its large ears that kids love grabbing onto.

My Urban Toddler

7025 Michigan Ave., Saline, 734-944-3628 3010 Washtenaw Ave. Suite 107, Ann Arbor, 734-585-0788 www.myurbantoddler.com

“Wow ” me!

My Urban Toddler is focused on providing the “wow” experience for local families! This includes genuinely caring, listening and acknowledging customers when they choose to shop with them. Their staff is fully knowledgeable about products so they can be truly helpful when you’re trying to pick the perfect holiday gift. Fun sales on all merchandise including breast pumps, kids’ winter crafts (marshmallow building, noodle chains, card making), and free gift wrapping will be available. With great deals and a promise to be sensitive to customer’s time, they are your one-stop shop for smiles this Christmas. See website for dates and times. continued on pg. 14

www.annarborfamily.com • December 2014 •

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continued from pg. 13

Satisfy a Sweet Tooth

Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum

220 E. Ann St., Ann Arbor 734-995-5439 www.aahom.org/events/ whats_new

n O s d Han days Holi

When you think of toys, do you think of FUN? Ann Arbor HandsOn Museum does, too…but they also think of psychology, engineering, and math! Join them as they use toys to explore physics, challenge with logic puzzles, and test perceptions of how the world works. Daily performers add to the fun, so check out their events calendar for a complete schedule!

Friday, December 26 through Sunday, January 4 from 10am to 4pm (except for Sundays, and Thursday, January 1) Hands-On Holiday will be offered from noon to 4pm.

Activities included with Museum admission at no additional charge.

Admission is free for members and children under 2 years old, and $12 for ages two and up. Find event info on their free app, available in the iTunes store!

The Perfect Gift is Worth the Trip

Boyd’s Retro Candy Store

954 Phillips Ave., Toledo 419-720-7387 www.boydsretrocandy.com The ultimate treat for every sweet tooth is a trip to Boyd’s Retro Candy Store. The family-owned business is a child’s paradise with a Willy Wonka feel and an endless supply of candy. Holiday gift baskets ($19.99) and retro mesh stockings filled with candy ($9.99) will bring more cheer to homes this December. Make your own candy mix by focusing on specific decades. A very retro way to celebrate the holidays!

. e n i g a Im ver. disco

Imagination Station

1 Discovery Way, Toledo 419-244-2674 www.imaginationstationtoledo.org

Give the gift of science fun this holiday with a year-long membership to Imagination Station offering unlimited access to the science center, reciprocal membership at over 300 science centers across the country, discounted prices for special exhibit Dinosaurs Unearthed, free Simulator Theater rides, access to special members-only events and discounts for summer camps, the gift shop and the cafe.

Visit our 3 Toledo Locations this Holiday Season Levis Franklin Commons Park Mall (Erie St.) https://retail.libbey.com

Downtown

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• December 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

A Peaceful Stepfamily Holiday

Be flexible and agreeable with other family members, when possible. Be willing to make sacrifices to fit everyone’s schedule. Offer alternatives when negotiating schedules and recognize that Thanksgiving and Christmas can be celebrated on a day other than the official holiday and still be a special day. Try to be fair to all parties involved and commit to do your part toward peaceful interactions with your ex-spouse.

Five tips to avoid hair-pulling moments

By Gayla Grace The holidays descended upon us quickly after my husband and I married midOctober and began our new life together. My expectations of a joyous holiday season faded as the reality of combining two households with different traditions and outside family members settled on us. I wasn’t prepared for the chaos and heartache that accompanied our first set of holidays together. Blending four young children, managing a harried schedule with two ex-spouses, and competing with the “other households� for time together and adequate gift exchange ignited a simmering blaze that burned throughout the season, leaving behind a trail of hurt feelings and unmet expectations.

I learned some valuable lessons on negotiating with others and compromising on details that didn’t have to go my way. Here are a few suggestions for more peaceful stepfamily holidays that will enable your family to enjoy one another and create lasting memories instead of simply surviving another holiday season.

Set aside unrealistic expectations. Accept that there will be unhappy moments during the holiday period. Children experience fluctuating emotions as they cope with the loss of their traditional family and accept their new stepfamily. They may act out or withdraw during periods of grief. My stepchildren lost their mother to cancer after my husband and I had been married nine years and holidays became especially difficult for them. Memories of past holidays sometimes prevented them from enjoying our family celebrations. However, I learned that a difficult day or week of frequent tears didn’t have to ruin the entire holiday season.

Be proactive. Start planning your schedule early. Have a family meeting and talk about the logistics of the season - when to decorate, what to eat for holiday meals, how to do gift exchange (draw names, include grandparents, etc.) and what special programs need to be put on the calendar. Ask each family member to take part in the planning and decision-making. Begin negotiating the visitation schedule early to allow time for discussion among parties.

Consider your children’s needs.

Children don’t choose to join a stepfamily and they don’t deserve to be pulled between family members. Allow them the freedom to love their other parent and go to the other home without a guilt trip. Help your children buy gifts for other family members. And don’t set a lot of rules about where gifts are kept or played with.

Start new traditions together and continue to celebrate old ones that fit.

Traditions offer a sense of belonging to family members and cement relationships as they’re carried out together. Talk to your children about what traditions are important to them and brainstorm ideas of new traditions to start together.

Holidays can be enjoyable and memorable as a stepfamily. There may be bumps along the way, but don’t give up on a joyous holiday season.

Gayla Grace is a freelance writer and mom and stepmom to five children in a his, hers, and ours family.

She loves encouraging stepfamilies through her blog and website at www.stepparentingwithgrace.com.

COME AND DISCOVER WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A PART OF THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION. ,)&% ,%!2.).' #/--5.)49 )3 ! + CHRISTIAN BLENDED LEARNING CAMPUS!

LIFE LEARNING COMMUNITY !)20/24 ",6$ s !.. !2"/2 -)

WWW.LIFELEARNINGCOMMUNITY.ORG www.annarborfamily.com • December 2014 •

15

ary

Both sections this month receive FREE bonus edit this month!

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ALL LOCAL LEADERS AND INNOVATORS IN EDUCATION. re kin iournupcoming g Showcase why your school or B program is theabest D a dISSUE HEAD OF THE CLASS

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February February WHERE

Bring Your Make sure you are a part Own Technology

Guide,

by Jeremy Rosenberg where parents turn to find the KIDS LEARN? We learn far more from being wrong, This year, Ann Arbor Public Schools best schools for from their and learning thatkids! error or mistake, are piloting a Bring Your Own Technology

Make sure you areWILL a part of February’s Education Guide, where parents turn to find the YOUR best schools for their kids!

February’s Education A tech of program in question

(BYOT) program at select schools. The idea is to allow kids to bring an iPad, or other similar technological device, to school as an aid in the learning process. Of course, parenting is a learning process in and of itself, and one thing I have learned is that a big part of modern parenting is the act of limiting “screen time.” It’s hard enough to keep kids off these things at home, now we want to send them to school with an iPad? However well-meaning the good people at AAPS are, the idea that kids need more time with technology, as opposed to less, is absurd.

Being wrong can be right Rather than have a child google a concept when he or she is unsure of what it is, perhaps they should be taught to think things through, to analyze, to theorize about answers, and most importantly, to be wrong about their own notions and ideas.

than we do from instant access to the internet. AAPS schools have great teachers. I want my children learning from them, not Wikipedia.

An iPad is a useful tool. But beware of these tools, they can become a crutch.

Technology can replace analysis and relationships. I fear the day a fourth grade classroom has a room full of children with faces buried in their iPads. Aside from the basics of education, the three R’s and all that, these kids should be interacting with each other. Social skills are too important to neglect, especially in the elementary age group.

Low tech lessons You can’t learn empathy without learning to read another person’s expression and mannerisms. When three children are gathered around an iPad, the technology itself is the focal point, not each other. Per-

EDUCATION GUIDE Issue Date: February reserve ad/edit space

by January 15

RESERVE YOUR SPACE! 734.668.4044

receive FREE bonus edit this month!

CALL TODAY EDUCATION GUIDETO Issue Date: February 1 reserve ad/edit space

by January 15 CALL TODAY TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE!

734.668.4044

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• December 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

haps high-school students would benefit more from the BYOT policy, but I doubt it.

My guess is they would be on Facebook or Instagram all day.

For elementary age students, BYOT is, simply put, a bad idea. We should replace BYOT with mandatory daydreaming time.

Let them sit under a tree for ten minutes and think about the world, or whatever strikes their fancy at the time. If all the kid can do is sit there and be bored, that isn’t such a bad thing either.

Childhood goes by fast enough, let it slow down a little -- for their sake and for ours.

Jeremy Rosenberg gave up the corporate rat race years ago to become a freelance writer and graduate student, as well as a stay-at-home dad to his two children, Jack, 10, and Eva, 5. He also enjoys playing the guitar, letting his cats fall asleep on his lap, and trying to be a decent human being.

Crowd-pleasing Favorites Oscar’s Sports & Grill 6877 State Road Saline, MI 48176 Phone: 734-429-7700 Hours: Mon-Wed: 11am – 11pm; Thurs-Sat: 11am – midnight; Sunday: 11:30am – 9pm www.oscarssportsgrill.com

Fresh flavors and a lively atmosphere abound at Oscar’s

Enter as strangers, leave as friends. So says the sign you see upon entering Oscar’s Sports & Grill on State Road in Saline. On a busy Friday night when my kids and I arrived for dinner, it looked like Oscar’s was making lots of friends.

The casual restaurant was packed. Albeit loud, the din from multiple TVs and chatting patrons was not unpleasant. People seemed to be enjoying friends and family, food and libations, and sports on any of the 9 TVs we saw.

Nod to Mexican heritage The restaurant has a dedicated bar area and numerous tables and booths for dining. The décor is classic sports bar: memorabilia hangs from the red walls and exposed ceiling. The owners, Oscar and Maria Cotero, rebranded Oscar’s late last year from its previous incarnation as a Wings-Pizza-N-Things franchise.

Perhaps as a nod to the Coteros’ Mexican heritage, the menu is peppered with authentic Mexican dishes, like the chicken enchilada platter and Maria’s homemade roasted pepper salsa. A variety of salads, sandwiches, entrees, burgers and pizzas are offered as well. Choices from the kids’ menu include a cheeseburger, mac and cheese, cheese quesadilla, grilled cheese, chicken tenders or cheese pizza. All are served with fries and a drink for $4.99-5.99. Milk is a dollar extra.

My kids, ages 11 and 7, wanted to start with chicken wings, but couldn’t agree on a sauce. We moved on to a unanimous crowd-pleaser, cheesy fries with bacon.

Next, my son, 11, ordered a bacon cheddar cheeseburger ($8.99) sans lettuce, tomato and onions. My daughter, 7, ordered the kids’ mac and cheese. I debated between the “El Gordo” burrito and the carne asada platter before our server enthusiastically recommended the burrito.

by Katy M. Clark

The cheesy fries arrived hot and doused in bacon chunks. I was impressed by the lack of fat on the bacon.

The oily, salty goodness of the fries was heavenly with the melted cheese and meaty bacon. For the first time that day, we were glad my husband was on a business trip so we didn’t have to share!

Exploding with Flavor Our entrees did not disappoint either. My burrito exploded with flavor. I liked the tangy heat of jalapeños I tasted in the red and green enchilada sauce. The marinated flank steak was savory and the black beans bright, not soggy. I alternated bites topped with pico de gallo and guacamole before I could eat no more.

I could tell my son liked his burger, a half-pound of Knight’s meat topped with cheddar and bacon. He stopped commenting on the game he was watching and simply chewed contentedly. Meanwhile, I inquired about my daughter’s mac and cheese, made with tubular rather than elbow pasta.

“How is it?” I asked.

“What do you think?” she replied smiling.

“Delicious?”

“Ding, ding, ding!”

After our cheesy fries and entrees, we were too stuffed to try dessert. Oscar’s offers selections like the Cookie Monster (chocolate chip cookies with ice cream, whipped cream and chocolate sauce) and Cinnamon Tortilla Vanilla Chilla (cinnamon sugar sprinkled tortillas, ice cream, warm apple pie filling, caramel, and whipped cream).

“It’s actually pretty cool in here,” my eleven-year-old stated. “We should come back.”

THE SHORT COURSE Kid-friendly: Yes To avoid wait: Go early for dinner on weekends or try lunchtime.

Noise level: High Bathroom amenities: A changing table is located in the women’s restroom, but not the men’s High chairs? Yes Got milk? White or chocolate, plus lemonade and soda pop Kids’ menu? Yes Anything healthy for kids? There are salads and items like carrot and celery sticks.

Food allergy concerns? As soon as you sit down, tell your server about any allergies.

The kitchen can prepare food in a separate location from other meals with separate utensils.

www.annarborfamily.com www.annarborfamily.com • December 2014 •

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{

December 2014

All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation, and limited size.

Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

}

39th Annual Saline Holiday Parade - March into the holidays with floats, bands and Santa Claus. 5:30pm.

Downtown Saline, Michigan Ave. 734-483-4444. besaline.com An Afternoon with the Alternative Environmental Claus - Dressed in a long brown hooded robe and backpack with all sorts of items Santa will talk about the gifts that already exist like clean water, air, food and shelter. Registration required.

1-2pm & 3:30-4:30pm. $8/person, $30/ family. Leslie Nature and Science Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org

Saline Fiddlers Philharmonic Hometown Concert

Sunday, December 7/ Saline High School Since 1994, the Saline Fiddlers have been setting the stage for outstanding musical programs. This month, they will be displaying their talent with their Hometown Concert, featuring the sixth, seventh and eighth grade Fiddle Clubs and Saline Varsity Blues Performing Show Choir. Catch the Instrumental Petting Zoo at 1:30pm also. Nonperishable food and other items will be collected for Saline Social Services. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy this showcase of local skill!

Sunday, December 7. 2pm. $10/adults, $5/students and seniors.

Saline High School Auditorium, 1300 Campus Parkway, Saline.

734-401-4200. www.salinefiddlers.com

1 MONDAY Planes and Trains and Things That Go - As part of the 2014 Children’s Book Exhibit by the U-M special collections library, this year’s theme is transportation throughout the decades. Ann Arbor District Library: Downtown Branch, 343 S. 5th Ave. 10am-5pm. 734-327-4265. aadl.org Free Dr. Seuss’ Grinch Day - This fun storytelling program features activities surrounding this holiday classic. 4pm. Barnes and Noble, 3235 Washtenaw Ave. 734-973-1618. barnesandnoble.com Free

2 TUESDAY Santa’s Mailbox - The Main Street area has a direct mail route from Ann Arbor to the North Pole for letters to Santa. Daily through December 16. Conor O’Neill’s, 318 S. Main St. mainstreetannarbor.org Free Bad Kitty Visits - Bad Kitty will visit for hugs and photos after 10am storytime.

11am. Nicola’s Books, 2503 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. nicolasbooks.com Free

3 WEDNESDAY Young Explorer Days - Children will explore dinosaurs while reading themed stories and examining real fossils. They will also create their own fossil to take home.

Registration required. 10-11am. $5/member; $10/non-member. Michigan Science Center, 5020 John R. St., Detroit.

313-577-8400. mi-sci.org From Up on Poppy Hill - As part of The Studio Ghibli Collection: A 30-YearRetrospective, this top-grossing animated 18

Japanese film tells the story of preparations for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. 7pm. $10.

State Theater, 233 S. State St. 734-761-8667. michtheater.org/state

4 THURSDAY Young Scientists: Flight - Kids explore the scientific and natural worlds with flightthemed activities. Also on December 18 with the theme of camouflage. 10-10:45am for ages 3-4/ 4:15-5pm for ages 5-7. $10/members; $13/non-members.

Cranbrook Institute of Science, 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills.

248-645-3200. science.cranbrook.edu

5 FRIDAY Opening Night: Snow Queen - Kids will love this adaptation of Frozen by Hans Christian Anderson. 7:30pm December 5; 1pm & 7:30pm on December 6; 1pm & 3pm December 7. $8/adults; $5/children.

A2CT Theatre, 322 W. Ann St. 734-971-2228. a2ct.org Kids Night in Mini-Camp - Participants will enjoy winter-themed crafts and pizza from 6-7pm. Pajamas, pillows and blankets are encouraged. Registration required.

6-10pm. $35/non-members; $30/members and siblings. Museum of Natural History, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.edu

6 SATURDAY Junie B. Jones - Join Junie as she enters first grade, meets new friends and helps the lunch lady. For grades K-5. 1:30pm. $10/ members, $12/non-members. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. michtheater.org

Creature Encounters: Reindeer - Visit Sven, a lovable reindeer calf, and his fellow winter loving animals like Arctic foxes and eagle owls. Bring a snack. Saturdays through December 27. 1-5pm. $4/ child (ages 2-12), $6/adult (age 13 and up), free/children under 2. The Creature Conservancy, 4950 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. 734-929-9324. thecreatureconservancy.org

7 SUNDAY If Teapots Could Talk - Enjoy a variety of Christmas-time teas, appetizers and conversation. Reservations required. $25. 1 & 4pm. Gordon Hall, 8431 Island Lake Rd., Dexter. 734-426-4961. dextermuseum.org Caring Santa - Children with special needs and their families have the opportunity to enjoy a carefully managed Santa photo experience through the Caring Santa program. Make memories with a photo for a keepsake! Also on Sunday, December 14. 8:30-10am. Briarwood Mall, 100 Briarwood Cir, Ann Arbor. 734-769-9610.

Free Backyard Winter Birding - Learn about feathered winter friends and focus on ways to encourage them to visit your yard.

For all ages. Registration required. 1-3pm. $9/person or $34/family non-member; $8/person or $30/family for LSNC members. Leslie Science & Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org Miracle on 34th Street The heartwarming 1947 Holiday classic about the real Santa Claus! State Street Area Association Holiday Classic Film Series. Rated G. 96 Mins. 1:30pm. State Theater, 233 S. State Street.

734-761-8667. michtheater.org/state Free

8 MONDAY Santa’s Village - Kids will have fun visiting Santa and telling them what is on their Christmas list. Also on December 9. 6-8pm.

Stone Arch Arts & Events, 117 S. Ann Arbor St. 734-429-4494. besaline.com Free

10 WEDNESDAY Cooking Matters: Teen Cooking Challenge - Teens will learn about nutrition, food budgeting and cooking. 6pm.

YDL Michigan, 229 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free

11 THURSDAY Minecraft Modding: Create Your Own Block Type - Learn how to create Minecraft Mods using the Java program-

• December 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

ming language. For ages 8-14/under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 7-8pm. $12. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-995-5439. aahom.org

12 FRIDAY Festive Friday - Embrace the holiday season with downtown Ann Arbor’s small street festival. Also on December 19.

7-9pm. Downtown Ann Arbor. mainstreetannarbor.org Free History of Ypsilanti - Enjoy a marionette and shadow puppet show as you learn about the city of Ypsilanti and it’s textured history. Also on December 13.

8:30pm. Admission price TBD. dreamlandtheater.com

13 SUNDAY Parents’ Night Out - Take a night to finish some holiday shopping as your kids enjoy activities at the conservancy.

For grades K-6. 5-10pm. $65/child. The Creature Conservancy, 4950 Ann ArborSaline Rd. 734-929-9324. thecreatureconservancy.org Critters Up Close - This special monthly program will give children a close up experience with cute critters from the Critter House and animal-themed hands-on activities. Also on December 14. 1-4pm.

Museum admission. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org Tiny Expo: Indie Holiday Arts & Craft Fair - Browse handmade items from local artists at one of Ann Arbor’s biggest indie arts fairs. 11am-5:30pm. Ann Arbor District Library: Downtown Branch, 343 S. 5th Ave. 734-327-4555. aadl.org Free Planetarium: Season of Light - The show traces the history and development of many holiday traditions. 12:30pm.

Museum of Natural History, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.edu/ummnh

14 SUNDAY Of All the Galls - Take a hike with Faye Stoner as she teaches about several plant galls in the woods and fields. 2-4pm.

West Lake Preserve, 21598 Waterloo Rd., Chelsea. 734-222-4357. ewashtenaw.org Free Holiday Community Jam - Ring in the holidays with music from professionals and students side-by-side. Funds raised will benefit need-based scholarships for students to continue musical education at CMSa2. 4-6pm. $10/single, $30/family.

Community Music School of Ann Arbor, 1289 Jewett. 734-213-2000. cmsa2.org Elf - Watch the family-friendly holiday story of a man who was raised as an elf. Tickets are first-come-first-serve basis. 1:30pm. The Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty.

734-668-8463. michtheater.org Free

15 MONDAY Snowman Jewelry - Make holiday jewelry while using beads, wire and learning basic techniques. 7-8pm. AADL Malletts Creek Branch, 3090 E. Eisenhower.

734-327-8301. aadl.org Free

Intro to Aerial Hammock - This introlevel workshop will explore several techniques with emphasis on aerial dance and improvisation. For all experience levels.

6-8pm. A2 Aviary, 4720 S. State St. 734-726-0353. a2aviary.com

18 THURSDAY Caldecott Club - Listen to presentations of selected picture books, discuss the art and words, then vote for the day’s favorite. Healthy snack included. Registration required. For grades K-1. 4:15-5pm.

Saline District Library, 555 N. Maple Rd. 734-429-5450. saline.lib.mi.us Free

20 SATURDAY Holiday Beast Bash! - Take a photo with Santa, drink hot cocoa and participate in holiday caroling. 10am-4pm. $8/general admission; $5.50/under 12 and seniors; free/under 2. Great Lakes Zoological Society, 6885 Jackson Rd. 734-332-1628. glzszoo.com Nature Tales: A Chilly Tale - Listen to a reading of “A Warm Winter Tale�

by Carrie A. Pearson, a cute story of how animals adapt for the cold winter months.

Registration encouraged. For ages 1-5 with an adult. 10-11am. $3/member, $4/nonmember. Leslie Nature and Science Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org A Visit With Father Christmas - Meet Father Christmas and politely ask him for items on your list. 10am-4:30pm. Matthaei Botanical Gardens, 1800 N. Dixboro Rd.734-647-7600. mbgna.umich.edu Free

21 SUNDAY Hanukkah Celebration - Celebrate Hanukkah traditions with a candle lighting ceremony, singing and dancing. 10:30amnoon. Jewish Community Center, 2935 Birch Hollow Dr. 734-975-9872. jewishculturalsociety.org Free

22 MONDAY Pete The Cat Fan Mail - Make a Pete the Cat puppet and write and illustrate letters that will be sent to Eric Litwin, author of popular Pete the Cat series. For grades K-5.

2-3:30pm. Traverwood Branch: Program Room, 3333 Traverwood Dr. 734-327-8301. aadl.org Free

23 TUESDAY The Lego Movie - As part of the Winter Break Film Series, enjoy this fun animated film. 2pm. YDL Whittaker, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free

29 MONDAY Muppets Most Wanted - Watch this fun puppet movie as part of the library’s Winter Break Film Series. 2pm. YDL

Whittaker, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti.

734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free Winter Camp - Camp includes hands-on animal encounters, educational activities and crafts with a different theme each day.

Through December 31. 9am-4pm. Threeday camp: $130/members, $150/nonmembers; Individual days: $45/members, $50/non-members. Great Lakes Zoological Society, 6885 Jackson Rd. 734-332-1628. glzszoo.com

30 TUESDAY Fevers ‘N Flu - Learn ways to boost your immune system and new remedies for coping with the flu season. 10:30-11:30am.

The Indigo Forest, 4121 Jackson Rd. 734-994-8010. theindigoforest.com Free

31 WEDNESDAY

marketplace ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE Free Classifieds: Individuals may receive one free 20-word ad per month (products offered in ads must sell for under $100). Each additional word 40 cents, payment must accompany ad. Free ads run 1 month and are reserved for private-parties use, noncommercial concerns and free services.

Ads MUST be typed or neatly printed and MAILED, E-MAILED, or DROPPED OFF to Ann Arbor Family Press. Classifieds by the15th of the month prior to publication.

Line Classifieds: Only $20 per month for 20

words or less. Each additional word is 40 cents each and any artwork will be $5 extra.

Display Classifieds: Display classifieds with a box may be purchased for $25 per column inch. Photos are accepted with ads for an additional $5 per photo.

Deadlines: Ad copy must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication.

Payment: Payment must be received before an ad can

be placed. We accept checks, cash, money orders and credit cards (Visa/Mastercard).

Mail or drop off:

Ann Arbor Family Press Classifieds, 3003 Washtenaw Blvd., Ann Arbor.

Phone: 734-668-4044 E-Mail: classifieds@adamsstreetpublishing.com Refunds: Sorry, NO REFUNDS given.

Misprints: Credit toward future ads.

Bring in the New Year Craft - Create your own New Year’s celebration hats and noisemakers. For preschool to grade 5.

Ann Arbor District Library: Pittsfield Branch, 2359 Oak Valley Dr. 734-327-8301. aadl.org Free

Full/ Part time infant care. Our

Northville Home or yours.

Experience Required. Email Ann43081@sbcglobal.net or call 614-901-2505

FREE HALF-HOUR CONSULTATION-- for families, enriching literacy and support for school/home. Ann Arbor Educational Associates, annarboreducationalassoc@ gmail.com. Openings in December.

New Years Eve Party: SRSLY Chelsea Ring in the new year with live music, games and prizes. For all ages. 4-8pm. Beach Middlle School, 445 Mayer St., Chelsea.

734-593-5279. Free

Massage Therapist: Currently Hiring Therapists to work at RelaxStation in downtown Ann Arbor. Free Parking, Flexible Hours, great team! 734-6231951

Fun-loving but introverted mother with fun-loving but introverted 9 year old boy seek similar pair for play dates 734-355-2082

HELP WANTED

Tuesdays

Animals in Winter, Learn how some animals prepare for and survive during the cold winter months. Registration required. For ages 4-5. 9-11am. $38/ child non-member, $33/child LSNC member for whole month. Leslie Nature and Science Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org

Saturdays

Children’s Storytime, Children enjoy listening as stories come to life.

For ages 4-12. 11am. Performance Network, 120 E. Huron St. 734-663-0681. pntheater.org Strum and Drum, Families will love being together and singing their hearts out while making musical instruments.

For all musical abilities. 3-4pm. $15/ family. Oz’s, 1920 Packard.

734-662-8283. ozmusic.com

Saturdays & Sundays Dinosaur Tours, Dinosaur fans will have fun with a 30-minute tour of animatronic reptiles. 2pm. Museum of Natural History, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.edu/ummnh Free

SERIOUS MOMS WANTED. We need serious & motivated people for expanding health and wellness industry. High speed internet/ phone essential. Free online training. iworkforfreedom.com

ANNOUNCEMENTS HERO MILES — to find out more about how you can help our service members, veterans and their families in their time of need, visit the Fisher House website at fisherhouse.org​ The Newcomers Coterie Club of Ann Arbor provides a friendly social contact for new and returning residents to the Ann Arbor area, as well as a new social outlet for established residents. Visit annarbornewcomersclub.com

EDUCATION ARE YOUR CHILDREN INTERESTED IN ASTRONOMY? Do they like observing the moon, planets and stars? GO TO www.YoungAstronomer.org

SERVICES

DOWNTOWN ANN ARBOR

s 0OSTPARTUM BIRTH BODY WORK AND SOOTHING MASSAGE s 0AIN REMOVAL FOR CAR ACCIDENT VICTIMS s 3CIATICA BACK NECK s PER HALF HOUR 3INCE CALL SHERREL: 734-239-3344

Play dates

FOR SALE Independent Damsel PRO selling self defense products for more info go to www. mydefensepro.net/PRO5883

HEALTH FUN, FREE 4-WEEK FIT CHALLENGE! Free Fitness M & W 6:30pm off Packard Rd. in Ann Arbor. All ages & skill levels welcome www.nutritionbychoice.com 734-707-7697 ACTIVE BODY CHALLENGE starts Jun 2nd - 8 Week Fitness & Nutrition Program, Cash prizes in 4 categories nutritionbychoice.com or 734-707-7697​ Medical Massage for Muscular Pain.

67.50/half hour. AA. Hot towels, stone - 42.50 each.

Same Day. 740-743-7160.

STRESS REDUCTION, DEEP TISSUE, CMT 15 years of experience, into.

Massage special $45/ hr. AA Northside.

Call Jane 734-741-0761

Massage: Walk-in Appointments Available. Free Parking. Make some time for yourself! Come in stressed leave refreshed. RelaxStation.

734-623-1951 Birth Trauma and Pregnant Massage Sher, 740-743-7160 - 85/ hr + Hot Towel 42.50/hr.

Same Day. AA. CCs accepted.

Victorian atmosphere.

Give Hope. Become a Foster Parent. Attend a free training today to learn more! For more information: www.judsoncenter.org or 313-255-8272.

Lifecoach Q.August/ CueTheCoach LLC. Themed Parenting Workshops Superhero or My House Is A Zoo Free w/$25 supply kit purchase CUETHECOACH.net

Call Catherine 419.244.9859

to sell your stuff today

www.annarborfamily.com • December 2014 •

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