SAVVYkids | MAY 2019

MAY 2019 · SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

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NATURAL STRESS RELIEF

SCRUBBING IN

CAREER OPTIONS IN NURSING

POSTPARTUM SELF-CARE

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MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

SAVVYKIDSAR.COM | MAY 2019

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TABLETOP GARDEN!

MAY 2019 5 EDITOR’S NOTE

8 ADVENTURE & FUN CALENDAR, CRAFT & MORE!

14 MAMA SAID

ANOTHER VIEW ON MOTHER’S DAY —TRACIE COLVERT

16 FAMILY & PARENTING

MOTHER'S DAY BRUNCH!

SCHEDULE SOME POSTPARTUM SELF-CARE

22 GOOD EATS

MOTHER'S DAY BRUNCH

30 EXPLORE & LEARN SCRUBBING IN—BACK TO SCHOOL FOR NURSING

34 HEALTH & WELLNESS NATURAL STRESS RELIEF

38 KID APPROVED

KRYSTAL ANDREWS IS READY TO DOULA THIS!

DOULA NICOLLE FLETCHER CHATS WITH LEILA BROOKS’ TWO MONTH OLD SON!

ON THE COVER: KATIE CHILDS WITH JONAS, 3 MONTHS PHOTO BY KATIE CHILDS

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MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

Thanks, Moms!

There’s a lot of motherly love, knowledge and hard truth being shared in this issue of SAVVYkids! With Mother’s Day coming up on May 12, we’ve dedicated the Good Eats section to ideas on throwing a memorable Mother’s Day brunch. Zara Abbasi shares recipes from her wholesome spread for those wanting to stay in and DIY a special meal for Mom (cooking is a great way to get the kids involved, too!). Flip to page 22 and get ready for some inspiration.

New moms and moms-to-be will want to check out info about postpartum care on page 16. We delve into options for maternity leave, the importance of taking that time off not only for the baby, but for your own well-being, and get advice from a seasoned doula on how to get through those first few months of motherhood.

With an abundance of baby gear, gadgets and gizmos on the market, it’s hard to know what’s registry-worthy. Brand-new mom Jennifer Thompson Freeman gives her list of can’t-live-withouts on page 38. You’ll want to tear it out and share it with those embarking on that roller coaster we call parenthood.

And, with every roller coaster there are highs and lows. Becoming a parent isn’t always as effortless and joyful as it may seem. Tracie Colvert, mom to two, shares her heartbreaking story of recently losing two sweet angel babies while trying to grow her family. Read her column on page 14.

While mental health is important for all, sometimes the strain of parenthood makes it feel a little more necessary for Mom and Dad to check in (for the sake of everyone living under their roof). In addition to professional help, there are many holistic ways you can ease stress and anxiety. On page 34, we explore a few outsidethe-box ways to unwind, breathe and keep going.

We hope you’ll take the time to let a motherly figure in your life know you appreciate her this month! Whether it’s with a gift, throwing a brunch or just a simple hug, letting the women who care for you know that you see them is priceless.

Amy Gordy Editor, Savvykids amy@arktimes.com

SAVVYKIDSAR.COM | MAY 2019

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PUBLISHER KATHERINE DANIELS | katherine@arktimes.com EDITOR AMY GORDY | amy@arktimes.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR MANDY KEENER ART DIRECTOR | DIGITAL MANAGER KATIE HASSELL SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE LESA THOMAS ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE DARLENE SIMPSON PRODUCTION MANAGER | CONTROLLER WELDON WILSON ADVERTISING TRAFFIC MANAGER ROLAND R. GLADDEN ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR MIKE SPAIN DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL STRATEGY JORDAN LITTLE PHOTOGRAPHER BRIAN CHILSON IT DIRECTOR ROBERT CURFMAN SOCIAL MEDIA HANNAH PEACOCK ACCOUNTING LINDA PHILLIPS CIRCULATION DIRECTOR ANITRA HICKMAN PRESIDENT ALAN LEVERITT

Purchase 3 lessons and receive the 4th FREE! Private & Group Riding Lessons Ages 5 to Adults Helmets & Horses Are Provided With Lessons Boarding • Training

Forever Forward Since 1980 • (501) 563-6941 13405 Settlement Rd., North Little Rock, AR

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MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

ARKANSAS TIMES LIMITED PARTNERSHIP

FIND US ON

S AV V Y K I D S A R . CO M

youn young maker cam young maker cam min min young maker camps mini maker camp June 10-14

ages 8-10

contributors

ages 11-13

8am-12pm | 1pm-5pm

Young makers will learn to make art thro and innovative means, utilizing recycled make beautiful and functional works of to make journals, jewelry, greeting card shopping bags, and more.

June 10-14 8am-12pm | 1pm-5pm

Clean & Green Art

Clean & Green Art

Printing & Dyeing Young 24-28 makers will learn to make art thro June Lampinnovative Camp means, utilizing recycled and 8am-12pm

June 10-14

8am-12pm | 1pm-5pm

ANGELA E. THOMAS is a proud University of Arkansas at Little Rock graduate and a member of its Alumni Board. For 11 years, she served Central Arkansas as editor for a locally owned magazine. Thomas is founder and owner of the greeting card company GODsent Greetings.

Young makers will learn to make art through sustainable and innovative means, utilizing recycled materials to make beautiful and functional works of art. They will learn to make journals, jewelry, greeting cards, reusable fabric shopping bags, and more.

June 10-14 8am-12pm | 1pm-5pm

Clean & Green Art

Young makers will learn to make art through sustainable and innovative means, utilizing recycled materials to make beautiful June 10-14 and functional works of art. They will learn to make journals, jewelry, greeting cards, reusable fabric 8am-12pm | 1pm-5pm shopping bags, and more.

To quote Brick from Anchorman, “I love lamp.” Over the course of this camp learn how to solder, and wire Clean & Green Art in a switch; laser cut a wooden Printing base, & Dyeingsand, stain, and June 10-14 June 24-28 woodworking techniques.

8am-12pm | 1pm-5pmassemble it using proper8am-12pm Next, it’s time to decorate thedye,shade Young makers will learnJune to make art through sustainable Design, and printwith t-shirts watercolor and more in our screen 10-14 and innovative means, utilizing recycled materials to techniques; printing studio. turn your idea into digital and printmaking thenLearn puttothe whole thing 8am-12pm | 1pm-5pm make beautiful and functional works of art. They will learn designs and wearable art. We’ll provide items such as to make journals, jewelry, greeting cards, reusable fabric t-shirts bags for each participant.

We will send more together and take it hope toand brighten up your life! shopping bags, and more. information after registration concerning what you can June 3-7 To quote Brick from Anchorman, “Itolove Over bring from home use for lamp.” screen printing.

8am-12pm | 1pm-5pm the course of this camp learn how to solder, and wire Lamp Camp Robotics base, sand, stain, and in a switch; laser cut a wooden June 10-14 24-28 Mini makers will learn toJune make art through sustainable woodworking 8am-12pm | 1pm-5pmassemble it using proper8am-12pm | 1pm-5pm techniques. and innovative means, utilizing recycled materials to Next, it’s time to decorate thewant shade with watercolor To quote Brick from Anchorman, “I love lamp.” Over Do you a vast army of mechanical to do make beautiful and functional works ofthe art.

Theyminions will learn the course of this campand learn how to solder, and wire your bidding?

Well, that’s too expensive, but what about printmaking techniques; then put whole thing in a switch; laser cut a wooden base, sand, stain, and jewelry, one little robot that you can control?

We can fabric handle that! to make journals, greeting cards, reusable together take it hope tothebrighten up your life! assemble it using proper woodworking and techniques.

Learn basics of the coding and wiring that it takes to Next, it’s time to decorate the shade withbags, watercolor create artificial intelligence that can move and react to shopping and more.

June 3-7 and printmaking techniques; then put the whole thing the world around it. Campers will take home their own together and take it hope to brighten up your life! robot!

8am-12pm | 1pm-5pm

Lamp Camp

a g e s 8 - 1 0 Lamp Camp

Clean & Green Art

DWAIN HEBDA is a writer and editor living in Little Rock. He and his wife, Darlene, are the parents of four grown children. The emptynesters spend their time traveling, working out and spoiling their two dogs.

ZARA ABBASI lives in Little Rock with her husband and three children. She is a licensed attorney but you know her better as Little Rock’s friendly pastry chef and custom cake maker. She keeps busy with dessert orders, pop-up dinners, writing articles and doing anything food-related.

Follow her on Instagram @Zaramadeit for her newest cake creations and dinner ideas.

Printing & Dyeing Lamp Camp

Clean & Green Art Robotics

mini maker camp

Clean & Green Art

Mini makers will learn to make art through sustainable and innovative means, utilizing recycled materials to make beautiful June 3-7 and functional works of art. They will learn to make journals, jewelry, greeting cards, reusable fabric 8am-12pm | 1pm-5pm shopping bags, and more.

To quote Brick from Anchorman, “I love lamp.” Over the course of this camp learn how to solder, and wire base, sand, stain, and Clean & Green Art in a switch; laser cut a wooden T-shirt Design June 3-7 17-21 assemble it using properJune woodworking techniques.

8am-12pm | 1pm-5pm 8am-12pm Next, it’s time to decorate the shade with watercolor June 3-7 Mini makers will learn to make art through sustainable It’s never too early to start learning the basics of and printmaking techniques; then put the whole thing and innovative means, utilizing recycled materials to designing and making your own line of t-shirts.

Learn 8am-12pm | 1pm-5pm make beautiful and functional works of art. They will learn various methods of printing, painting, and dyeing fabric together and take it hope to brighten up your life! to make journals, jewelry, greeting cards, reusable fabric to make your own t-shirts and more! Items to print are shopping bags, and more. included.

To quote Brick from Anchorman, “I love lamp.” Over the course of this camp learn how to solder, and wire in a switch; laser cut a wooden Lamp Camp Robotics base, sand, stain, and June 3-7 17-21 assemble it using properJune woodworking techniques.

8am-12pm | 1pm-5pm 8am-12pm | 1pm-5pm Next, it’s time to decorate the shade with watercolor To quote Brick from Anchorman, “I love lamp.” Over Do you want a vast army of mechanical minions to do printmaking thenWell, put the whole but thing the course of this camp and learn how to solder, and wiretechniques; your bidding? that’s too expensive, what about in a switch; laser cut a wooden base, sand, stain, and it hope oneto littlebrighten robot that youup can control? can handle that! together and take your We life! assemble it using proper woodworking techniques.

Learn the basics of the coding and wiring that it takes to

Lamp Camp

MELISSA TUCKER spends her days working in web marketing. When not at work, you'll probably find her at the gym, on the playground with her kids or checking out too many books from the library.

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mini maker camps

Clean & Green Art Robotics T-shirt Design Lamp Camp T-shirt Design Lamp Camp Robotics

Visit arhub.org for a complete camp list. We look forward to seeing you this Lamp Camp summer at Arkansas’ premier makerspace. Robotics 204 E 4th St, NLR | 501-907-6570 | arhub.org

Next, it’s time to decorate the shade with watercolor and printmaking techniques; then put the whole thing together and take it hope to brighten up your life!

create artificial intelligence that can move and react to the world around it. Campers will take home their own robot!

KATIE CHILDS is a wedding, lifestyle and commercial photographer based in North Little Rock. When she’s not behind the camera, Katie and her husband, Jon, can be found rock climbing with their two pups in Northwest Arkansas and listening to embarrassing rap music.

TRACIE COLVERT and her husband, Ryan, live in Benton with their kids Arianna, 13, and Gavin, 10. Tracie is a preschool teacher but will be transitioning to another career at the end of May. She had no idea about the physical and mental trauma of pregnancy loss until it happened to her, and she is eager to share her story to let others know they aren’t alone.

SAVVYKIDSAR.COM | MAY 2019

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May ADVENTURE & FUN

2019

Through June 30

58TH YOUNG ARKANSAS ARTISTS EXHIBITION

The galleries of the Arkansas Arts Center are filled with the top student art in the state during the 58th Young Arkansas Artists Exhibition. This show features work in a range of mediums created by Arkansas students from kindergarten through high school. arkansasartscenter.org

By Mikayla Boyd, 12th Grade

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CHELSEA CLINTON BOOK SIGNING AT THE LITTLE ROCK ZOO

Chelsea Clinton is making a stop at the Little Rock Zoo on a national tour for her latest children’s book, “Don’t Let Them Disappear: 12 Endangered Species Across the Globe.” Enjoy a special welcome by Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr., a Q&A with Clinton, and an opportunity to have your book signed. Admission is $25 per person and includes one copy of the book, parking and admission to the zoo on the day of the event. littlerockzoo.com

By Rinrada Seeboonruang, 8th Grade

By Conner Cadle, 5th Grade

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MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

Through Oct. 27 WASHED ASHORE

Catch “Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea,” the latest temporary exhibit to show at the Clinton Presidential Center. This family-friendly exhibit features more than 20 giant sea life sculptures made entirely of trash and debris collected from beaches. This unique and informative exhibit illustrates the toll trash takes on our oceans and waterways, and offers facts on the species affected and ways we can all implement environmental stewardship. clintonfoundation.org

4 TOUR DE TOAD

Pedal with the whole family to help raise money for Literary Action of Central Arkansas at the 12th Annual Tour de Toad, an official event of Toad Suck Daze in Conway. Cyclists can pick between three routes: a 10-mile (Family Ride), 20-mile and 40-mile route. literacyactionar.org

5 Cinco

de Mayo

11 MAMIE’S POPPY PARTY

Mamie’s Poppy Plates, a local organization that creates personalized keepsakes for parents of stillborn babies, is changing up their annual fundraiser this year. Mamie’s Poppy Party at War Memorial Stadium will be a family-style parade and memory walk with more food and new entertainment. It begins at 6 p.m. and ends with a grand finale at 9 p.m. mamiespoppyplates.com

11 MINI MAKER FAIRE

Get inspired at the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub's exciting hands-on learning and creating event, the North Little Rock Mini Maker Faire, along the North Shore Riverwalk from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This all-day event combines science, art and technology to celebrate do-ityourself creativity and tinkering.

Maker Faire is an all-ages festival that's free to the public. arhub.org

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17-19

35TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL GREEK FOOD FESTIVAL Experience tastes from across the world at the 35th Annual International Greek Food Festival. This family-friendly event at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church offers food, fun and fundraising. Admission is $3 or three canned food items for the Arkansas Foodbank. greekfoodfest.com

18 ARKANSAS MADE-ARKANSAS PROUD

Shop a wide selection of locally made goods at Arkansas Made-Arkansas Proud, a craft fair event on the field at War Memorial Stadium from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Look for more than 125 Arkansas artisans selling their work, with food and beverages for sale. Admission is $5, children 5 and under are free. facebook.com/arkansasmadearkansasproudmarket

CONGRATULATIONS

GRADS!

INVITATIONS • DECORATIONS • PARTY FAVORS • BALLOONS • PIÑATAS • CAKE SUPPLIES 10 MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

26 HIGHWAY 71 PASTRY TOUR 18 MESSTIVAL!

Encourage your kids to get slimy, foamy, muddy and gooey at the Museum of Discovery’s Fourth Annual Messtival! It’s a fun, hands-on messy day of learning—and you don't have to clean up the messes! Be sure to wear clothes that can get dirty and bring a change of clothes for the ride home.

Messtival participation is covered under regular museum admission; $8 for kids, $10 for adults, free for members. museumofdiscovery.org

11218 N. RODNEY PARHAM RD. / LR 501.223.4929

Pastries + bikes = happiness. Ride along with this simple equation at the Highway 71 Pastry Tour in Fayetteville. This unique event benefits Breakaway Cycling Team—a nonprofit that works to get more kids, young adults and women on bikes—and offers 20-, 32- or 71-mile routes with rest stops stocked with pastries from local bakeries, fruit, hydration and more. breakawaycyclingteam.org

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MEMORIAL DAY

4822 N. HILLS BLVD. / NLR 501.978.3154

• INVITATIONS • DECORATIONS • PARTY FAVORS • BALLOONS • PIÑATAS • CAKE SUPPLIES SAVVYKIDSAR.COM | MAY 2019

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Tabletop Garden

Bring a little spring inside with an indoor miniature garden

You will need:

Shallow bowl or plate Small teacup Small plants (We used a succulent and two air plants.)

Miniature figure Pebbles Dirt Moss (optional)

How to:

1. Hot glue the teacup to the bowl or plate so it will not move around. Then, replant the succulent into the teacup.

2. Arrange the miniature figure and other plants on the plate, then hot glue them into place.

3. Pour a thin layer of dirt onto the plate and evenly spread it around the teacup, figure and plants.

4. Arrange the pebbles in a fun design, or create a little walkway on the dirt.

5. Add the moss in any areas that are bare, or where you would like to add a little green.

6. Once finished, use a spray bottle to mist the plants every couple of days.

12 MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

Spotlight on Nonprofits Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas

Who’s Leading? Executive Director Janelle Mason leads the team at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas, the umbrella organization of Little Rock’s Ronald McDonald House in Little Rock.

What’s It All About? Ronald McDonald House provides a comfortable, welcoming home away from home for parents and families of seriously ill children receiving medical treatment in Little Rock. The house provides private, individual suites; hot meals; play spaces; and other places to relax after a stressful day of treatments.

Where Can I Find It? Ronald McDonald House is located right across the street from Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Little Rock.

When Can I Attend? Eligible families are referred to Ronald McDonald House by hospital personnel. There is never a charge for lodging or services, but many families opt to pay a modest fee to help defray costs.

Why Is It Important? The house provides families a comfortable, affordable means of staying near their child during treatment.

According to the organization’s 2017 Impact on Families Summary, more than 1,100 families spent over 9,600 nights at the house that year.

In addition, nearly 30,000 meals were served to parents and families.

Attend! The Pop Tab Program celebrates its big weigh-in at the Little Rock Zoo on May 10. Teams have been collecting aluminum can tabs all year long to help raise money for RMHCA. Anyone can collect and donate pop tabs; just pull off tabs from aluminum beverage and soup cans and drop them off any day between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. at the Ronald McDonald House, located at 1501 W. 10th Street. The money raised helps pay for families to stay at the Ronald McDonald House.

How Can I Help? Donations, both individual and corporate, represent the bulk of RMHCA’s funding. The staff at the house is also assisted greatly by the help of individual and groups of volunteers. To donate, volunteer or learn more, please visit rmhcarkansas.org.

Park Big Rock Mini Golf & FunLD TRIP!

BIG PARTY OR FIE XT NE UR YO R FO e s r u o C s e & HigH rope

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Ladies Night!

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Party house available for

501-455-3750 | bigrockfunpark.com bigrockfunpark.com (NearBass BassPro ProShops) Shops) 11411 Road Little Little Rock Rock (Near 11411 Baseline Road SAVVYKIDSAR.COM | MAY 2019

13

MAMA SAID...

Another View on Mother’s Day

BY TRACIE COLVERT

Where do I start? I am a 34-year-

old mother of two. At least that was the case until September 2018. In August, the first plus sign showed up after trying for almost a year. Of course, my husband and I had mixed emotions. We would be completely starting over. Our kids were 13 and almost 10!

My first two pregnancies made me oblivious to what could happen. We made our first appointment at eight weeks, and on that day, our world began to crumble. Our baby was only measuring at six weeks and had a small flutter of a heartbeat. My nurse started me on progesterone to try to help, and we kept a close eye on our little fighter for a week. My hormone levels kept dropping and soon that little flutter was gone. Hearing the words, “no heartbeat” is enough to bring a grown man to his knees. I had no sign of a miscarriage, and being completely heartbroken and lost, I opted for a D&C. I have always believed in miracles, and have seen some firsthand. But when He didn’t fix my baby, I found myself questioning God and my faith. I began to think that maybe I had lost my baby due to the lack of faith or choices I had made in the past. It took me awhile to realize that God wasn’t punishing me. I still have days that I have to remind myself of that, but I am so thankful for my family and friends who didn’t stop holding me and praying for me. My church family at NLC Saline has held me when I couldn’t stand. They have cried out to God when I had no words to speak.

They have walked every step with me.

Fast-forward to November 2018, we decided to try again. We had every emotion you could think of.

Finally, February 2019, I got that plus sign. Our first appointment was March 5 at eight weeks. I was having

some complications so I was pretty sure of the outcome. Sure enough, the ultrasound tech couldn’t even find a baby this time. I had a natural miscarriage that following Sunday at home.

I have been so much stronger this time. Yes, I hurt for the “what ifs” and the “could’ve beens” but I can feel God’s love all around me. I am surrounded by prayer warriors. We are currently still waiting for my hormones to level out so we can run some tests and try to find the reason for my losses. I am praying that whatever it is, it will be an easy fix.

In my season of waiting, it is comforting to know that I don’t have to have the answers. It’s OK to question God. It’s OK to be angry and it’s OK to cry … it’s OK to not be OK. I heal through music, and we learned a new song at church on my first angel’s due date that opened my eyes and my heart so much more. Some of it goes like this, “When I thought I lost me. You knew where I left me.

You reintroduced me to Your love. You picked up all my pieces. Put me back together. You are the Defender of my heart.” I’m still broken but God knows right where I am, and He is putting me back together, piece by piece.

Sweet reader, your story may be similar to mine or it might be completely different. But it’s your story.

Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to share it with the world. Your pain will not be for nothing. Someone somewhere is hurting so bad that they think they can’t go on. Your story could be the very thing they need to hear — the very thing that brings them hope, especially when Mother’s Day isn’t a happy time.

If you have not ever experienced infertility or pregnancy loss, please be careful with your words.

Asking someone when they will have a baby, or when they will have another one, aren’t the words we need to hear. Those words break hearts when holding our baby is all we really want. Maybe on this Mother’s Day, and every day, lift each other up and be a listening ear.

You might be just what we need at that moment.

(FROM LEFT) ARIANNA, GAVIN, TRACIE AND RYAN COLVERT

14 MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

THE HOPEFUL FAMILY, IN 2018 BEFORE THEY GOT THE HEARTBREAKING NEWS.

I hurt for the “what ifs” and the “could’ve beens”...

SAVVYKIDSAR.COM | MAY 2019

15

FAMILY & PARENTING HEALTH & WELLNESS

Schedule Some Postpartum Self-Care The focus may be on the new bundle of joy, but it’s important for Mom to take time to recover, too.

BY ANGELA E. THOMAS PHOTOS COURTESY OF NICOLLE FLETCHER

An estimated 250 children are born each minute worldwide. And for many women in the United States, the joy of childbirth is accompanied by a countdown. In just 42 days, they’ll be expected to return to work, to have recovered physically and emotionally, to juggle the responsibilities of working while rearing a child—or two or more—and attend to the needs of her marriage/relationship and, in many cases, to manage her household.

While the Family and Medical Leave Act protects an employee’s job for up to 12 weeks, this leave is unpaid and only applies to employees of public agencies, public and private schools and companies with 50 and more employees. In Arkansas, women who work for the state receive four weeks of paid leave. This is, unfortunately, exceptional.

Many employers do not offer paid maternity leave, and often working families cannot afford more than the six to eight weeks granted for maternity leave.

Becoming a working mother can be overwhelming, that’s why selfcare is so important. One of the first things new moms should know: Don’t be hard on yourself.

16 MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

“It takes nine to 10 months to develop a child for birth. Six to eight weeks is not enough time to fully recover and feel like yourself again. It takes about eight months to feel as if you’re back to being yourself,” said Nicolle Fletcher.

Fletcher is a certified doula, who specializes in birth and postpartum care. She’s also a lactation counselor and a certified health coach.

“Many women set their expectations based on Instagram moms, who post pictures of themselves glowing, with captions about the magic of motherhood. While this is true—motherhood is wonderful—most do not post the pictures of the rough moments on Instagram and Facebook. Moms-to-be see these women who seemingly have it all together and think that’s reality. But it’s important to realize these are ‘highlight reels.’

They don’t tell you that they’re not eating, not sleeping and they’re irritated with their husbands,” Fletcher said.

"Many women set their expectations based on Instagram moms. It’s important to realize these are ‘highlight reels.’"

These posts can create internal pressure for new moms, who may begin to think, “I don’t measure up.”

“Remember, your body is changing quickly. Your uterus has gone from being the size of a pear to the size of a watermelon, then down to a cantaloupe and eventually back to a pear. Your organs have all shifted, and they’re now returning to their original places. It’s typical for new moms to leak from every hole—crying, nursing and bleeding all at once,” Fletcher said, laughing. “And along with all these psychological changes, your hormones are all over the place.”

Recovery is an individual process; however, Fletcher offers the following advice: “New mothers are focused on caring for their newborns.

After giving birth, mom needs someone who is focused on her.

Someone who will remind her to eat, sleep and take care of herself.” This can be her partner, a parent or a close friend.

“She’ll need 300 to 500 nutritionally dense calories per day.

These can be found in fruits and vegetables and foods like hummus and avocados,” Fletcher said. “Prior to giving birth, plan ahead by cooking and freezing some healthy meals. Look for

Paid Leave On the Horizon

The issue of paid leave is on the forefront: During his second State of the Union address, President Donald Trump discussed his proposed budget, which includes six weeks of paid leave for new parents.

In March, New York Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney introduced the Federal Employee Paid Leave Act, which would guarantee 12 weeks of paid leave for federal employees who: become new parents, by birth or adoption; need to care for immediate family members experiencing a serious illness; and/or have a qualifying urgent demand that arises due to an immediate family member’s active duty in the military.

Employers who provide paid leave, from 2018 through the end of this year, may claim a tax credit of a percentage of the wages they pay to their qualifying employees who are on leave under the FMLA (according to the Society of Human Resource Management).

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healthy take-out options and prepare a bin of healthy snacks. Once Mom is on her own, she should set an alarm as a reminder to eat.

Eating well will help her body function properly.”

Additionally, she recommends new mothers drink about half their body weight in fluid ounces in water each day; this is especially important for breastfeeding moms.

Exercise is important. “Do not jump right back into your gym routine. Wait until your doctor clears you to do so. However, leisure

“New mothers are focused on caring for their newborns. After giving birth, mom needs someone who is focused on her." walks outdoors are good, and the exposure to the sun will help with vitamin D levels.” She also recommends performing Kegels, which help strengthen pelvic floor muscles.

Keep a journal. “Write your thoughts or create a video journal— just for you. This will help with emotional healing.”

Additionally, take inventory of your feelings. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in nine women experience symptoms of postpartum depression. Most women experience baby blues (feeling tired, sad and worried) for several weeks, and postpartum depression is also common.

“If you are feeling helpless or hopeless, indifference toward your baby, feeling ‘out of body,’ or if you’re overeating, undereating or feeling especially irritable, these may be signs of postpartum depression. If you have thoughts of self-harm or harming your baby, seek immediate attention from a professional,” such as your doctor or mental health professional. Remember, there is no shame in getting help.

Join a group. “Find a Mommy and Me group, or meet with the members of your childbirth class. It’s important that you meet with women who are in the same ‘space.’ While social media can help you with a sense of community, meeting with others in person provides a ‘touch’ that isn’t available online,” Fletcher added.

Good postpartum care is vital and can make the transition into motherhood and back into the workplace much easier. You may also want to consider a doula. Birthing doulas provide emotional, physical and informational support during the delivery process.

Postpartum doulas provide this support once your child is born.

They are medically aware and can advise new mothers and give direction when medical attention is needed.

For more information about Fletcher and the services she provides, log on to nurturingarrowsdoulacoach.com.

18 MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

(OPPOSITE PAGE) SUE FEHLBERG AND MARIE KONDO. (ABOVE) WARREN MCBRIDE LEARNS TO TIDY UP.

(TOP) NICHOLA DRIVER ENJOYS A HEALTHY POSTPARTUM MEAL THREE DAYS AFTER BIRTH. (BOTTOM) NICOLLE FLETCHER CERTIFIED DANCING FOR BIRTH INSTRUCTOR, LEADS A SPECIAL COUPLES CLASS AT 501 CARDIO CENTER IN CONWAY.

Maternity Leave in the United States as Compared to Other Countries United States: up to 12

weeks of unpaid leave guaranteed; private companies may offer compensation

Denmark: 100% paid

leave for up to a year

Serbia: 100% paid

leave for up to a year

Norway: 100% paid leave for up to 46 weeks, 80 percent for an additional 10 weeks

Sweden: 80% paid leave for up to 1 year and 1 month, a lump sum for an additional 13 weeks

United Kingdom: 90%

paid leave for 6 weeks,

additional compensation for up to 33 weeks

Canada: 100% paid

leave for 15 weeks, 55 percent for an additional 35 weeks

Australia: flat rate of

compensation per week paid leave for 18 weeks

Source: Living and Loving

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To Doula or Not to Doula

Doulas, contrary to popular belief, are not midwives. You do not have to have a homebirth or deliver your child without medication to use their services.

Doulas are not responsible for your primary care. However, they are medically aware.

Doulas lend the emotional and physical support needed during the delivery process (this is key as hospital staff often do not provide this, and many obstetricians check on their patients periodically but are present for the delivery only).

While doulas’ services are generally not covered by insurance, they are not exclusive to the wealthy. The average doula in Central Arkansas charges $500 to $1,500 for her services.

Doulas empower women to have the birth experiences they desire.

Doulas may be birth doulas, postpartum care doulas or both.

(CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT) NICOLLE FLETCHER AND NEW MOM TANIELLE PRICE WRAP UP THE BIRTH EXPERIENCE WITH A POSTPARTUM DOULA VISIT AND LACTATION ASSESSMENT; FLETCHER AND ASHLIEGH GOFF MOMENTS AFTER GIVING BIRTH; FLETCHER PROVIDES LABOR SUPPORT TO KRYSTAL ANDREWS WITH A TECHNIQUE CALLED THE DOUBLE HIP SQUEEZE; AND FLETCHER PROVIDES PHYSICAL SUPPORT FOR KRYSTAL ANDREWS WHILE SHE WORKS THROUGH LABOR CONTRACTIONS.

20 MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

SAVVYKIDSAR.COM | MAY 2019

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GOOD EATS

22 MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

If I could buy my mother everything in the world that she ever wanted, I still

don’t think that would be enough to tell her how I feel about her. How do you thank your mother for the sleepless nights?

For loving you unconditionally? For kissing you before bed every night? For making every birthday so special? For all the meals she made with her tired hands? For all the nights she stayed up praying for your health and well-being? For sleeping on the floor in the hospital after your car accident?

For helping you relearn to walk when you felt so much pain and hopelessness? For all the painful “no’s” she said to protect you? For being right beside you on your wedding day? For being the first to hold your son when he was born?

How do you thank that? There’s no way, other than to acknowledge what a spirit she has, and to do the same for her because you now know her love language.

But, now that I am a mother, I like to think about the things that would make me feel loved and special, and combine that with what I’d like to do for others. Because food is one of my love languages, I love being fed thoughtfully.

I hope you will enjoy the following Mother’s Day brunch recipes with all your loved ones.

Brunch Bypass the crowded restaurants and treat Mom

to a special meal made with love on her big day

BY ZARA ABBASI, PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE CHILDS

Mothers put love and concern into things whether they’re big or small, so to show them the same love and concern, I translate it into thoughtfulness. If they have a favorite restaurant, get reservations or get a meal catered from there and decorate the house or dining room for her; send her to the spa for some pampering while you get things in order; and/or get her a special gift or a memory book.

What I personally like to do is cook for my mother. She’s not a huge fan of going out to eat, so I like to make it special for her according to her favorites. I like to decorate the house with flowers, balloons, nice China and her favorite things.

It’s about making her feel special and loved (although she’s so kind-hearted that she’d be happy without all the fuss, too.

But mothers deserve a fuss).

The last piece I want to add here is of significant importance. I never want to forget about people among us suffering from a loss of a mother, lack of the knowledge of their mother, or those who try desperately but cannot become mothers. This is an especially difficult day for our friends who are suffering or feel out of place. Please do go out of your way to check on them on this day. Do something special for them, remind them that we are a village, that their loss is our loss, that they are loved dearly. If appropriate, invite them to celebrate a memory or hope with you. Many stay silent on this day because it’s too painful, and easier that way. I implore you to check on them. I have certain friends who have lost a parent or are in the process of losing a parent, and it is the most heartbreaking thing. This life is not a dress rehearsal; be the kindest you today.

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24 MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

Eggs Benedict Strata

Just because you want to make an amazing and impressive meal for your mother, doesn’t mean you have to slave away and use up all your time cooking. I’m sure your mother wants to spend time with YOU, too. That’s why this dish is so unique and special. It’s a great way to greet your mother for brunch without working like a line-order cook. Assemble this the night before and you can just pop it in the oven when you wake up. Then you can make the hollandaise fresh before serving. While it’s cooking, you can set up a nice drink bar and fresh fruit to accompany it. Voila!

6 English muffins 1 pound bacon sliced (can also use the traditional Canadian ham or cooked and crumbled turkey sausage) 10 large eggs 1 cup milk ½ cup heavy cream 2 teaspoons garlic powder 1 teaspoon dried thyme Salt and pepper to taste For Hollandaise: 6 egg yolks 1½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1½ sticks unsalted butter, melted Pinch or two of salt Cayenne pepper or hot sauce, optional 1. Spray or butter a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.

2. Split the English muffins in half and cube them.

Then spread out in the bottom of the baking dish. Add in half of the sliced bacon, ham, or cooked and crumbled turkey sausage over the muffin cubes.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, seasonings and salt and pepper. Pour over the ingredients in the baking dish, then top with the remaining meat and press down to ensure all the ingredients are submerged.

4. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.

5. A couple of hours before serving, preheat oven to 350 degrees and cook for about an hour. Then remove foil and continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes.

6. Serve warm with Hollandaise and fresh chives, if desired.

7. For the Hollandaise: simmer water in a small sauce pan and place a bowl over the pan. Make sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Add in the yolks and lemon juice and whisk vigorously until mixture thickens. This may take a few minutes. When it gets thicker, slowly drizzle in the melted butter and keep whisking until it’s fully incorporated. Remove from heat, adjust seasonings if necessary and add cayenne or hot sauce if needed. (Faster version: add yolks and lemon juice to a blender and blend, make sure your melted butter is piping hot and stream that in slowly until thickened. This is the version I use because I have puny arms. Wah!)

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Breakfast Potatoes

Man, there must be a million versions of breakfast potatoes out there. That should give you a hint as to their essential quality at the breakfast or brunch table. When I see potatoes on the table, that’s when I’m like, “Oh! This breakfast just got real!” That’s my invitation to sit back, linger and enjoy a while. I don’t know why that’s my instinct. Maybe because I know how long it takes to peel potatoes? I don’t know (these don’t even require you to peel them!), but I know when I see potatoes on the table, I really feel welcomed. I would want my mother to feel like that, so that’s why I’ll be making these to accompany the strata above.

3 medium to large golden potatoes 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil ¼ cup chopped roasted red peppers 1 small onion sliced 1 to 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 to 2 tablespoons maple syrup 3 to 4 sprigs thyme ¼ cup fresh flat leaf parsley, chopped 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning Salt and pepper to taste 1. Wash and dice the potatoes. Heat oil in a cast iron skillet and add in the potatoes. Season with salt, pepper and Old Bay. Stir around to coat evenly.

2. Cook for a few minutes and add more oil if needed. Add in the onions, roasted peppers and continue cooking until the onions start to caramelize. Check seasonings again and adjust if necessary.

3. Add in the chopped parsley and stir. Then add in the maple syrup (add in a little extra because is there really any harm in that? No.) Heat on high to caramelize for a minute or two and then serve hot.

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Crepe Bar

After all that egg and potato goodness, we’d all naturally gravitate toward something sweet. And oh, how I love a themed bar! I made a crepe bar once for a girlfriend’s baby shower and it was one of my favorite interactive things to do!

You don’t feel so pressured to make a perfect dessert everyone will like, and this allows the creative juices to flow for other people to make their own fun versions.

I like to make a bunch of crepes and cover them with a damp bakers cloth and then serve when ready. My favorite items to serve with the crepes are: lemon curd, fruit preserves, Nutella, fresh fruit, whipped cream, sautéed cinnamon apples, salted caramel and/or chocolate chips. The fillings are truly endless.

1 cup all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon sugar ¼ teaspoon salt 1½ cups milk 4 large eggs 4 tablespoons melted butter (plus more for pan)

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1. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar and salt. Slowly whisk in the milk and add eggs one at a time, mixing between each addition. Add in the melted butter and stir to incorporate completely.

2. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with butter. Add in about a ¼ cup of the batter and swirl pan until the batter is thin and even. Sometimes I cheat and spread it out with the back of a spoon.

3. Cook for about a minute or two until you see the batter drying out, flip and cook another 30-45 seconds. Place on a dish lined with damp paper towels (not wet, though).

4. Keep repeating the process, stacking all on top of each other, until all the crepes are cooked. Cover with another damp baker’s cloth or paper towels and then cover the entire dish with plastic wrap until ready to use.

Serve alongside your favorite fillings from the list above.

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To learn more about our programs and services: Call: 1-800-245-0011 | Visit: TheBridgeWay.com

SAVVYKIDSAR.COM | MAY 2019

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EXPLORE & LEARN

Scrubbing In

More nontraditional students are heading back to school for nursing

BY DWAIN HEBDA

Any way you look at it, it’s a great time to be

a nurse in America. The profession is respected, well-compensated and, thanks to a years-long shortage of nurses, a job with excellent opportunities and job security.

“There are openings in a wide variety of fields and types of work in nursing,” said Judy Pile, chancellor of Baptist Health College in Little Rock. “One of the awesome things about it is you can be in nursing and even work for the same organization for 40 years and do 15 different things if you want to.”

The demand for nurses is a result of several factors. One, the Baby Boomer population is getting older by the day and, as one of the largest generations in history, this is pushing demand for health care workers in all areas, particularly nurses. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Employment Projections 2016-2026, demand for registered nurses (RN) is predicted to grow 15 percent to 3.4 million nurses by 2026, up from 2.9 million in 2016.

Another reason the industry has such a need for people is because existing nurses themselves are growing older and are leaving the workforce for retirement. The July 2017 Journal of Nursing

30 MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

Regulation forecast 1 million RNs will retire by 2030, according to findings in a study, “Four Challenges Facing the Nursing Workforce in the United States.”

To meet future needs, the industry cannot rely on traditional college students alone coming right out of high school, but has launched a concerted effort to recruit nontraditional students to the profession. This includes people looking to change careers or people who have been out of the workforce, such as stay-at-home moms looking to get back into the marketplace.

“I would say, as far as moms considering going back to college, they certainly will not be alone,” said Jon Vickers, enrollment coordinator and academic counselor for the UA Little Rock Department of Nursing. “It is a very common second career or second degree; I think almost 20 percent of our students have a bachelor’s degree already. [Nontraditional students] should not think they’re going back to class with a classroom full of 19-yearolds, because that is just not the case.”

The first thing any nursing school will look at is the coursework a nontraditional student has already completed. For example, a woman who completed some or all of a bachelor’s degree before

staying home to raise her kids may only need to take some science courses to get caught up, while someone who has little to no college will have more work to do. Nursing schools don’t have unlimited seats, so previous college coursework can sometimes decide who gets in and who doesn’t, too.

“We rank our students to determine who we accept based on grades and prerequisite or corequisite courses,” Vickers said. “UA Little Rock has about nine classes [students] need to complete prior to entering nursing school [including] human anatomy, physiology, college algebra and English composition.”

From there, nursing school courses are a combination of classroom lectures and what are called clinicals, which is instruction that involves working with actual patients (or, in some cases, mannequin simulators) under the guidance of an instructor.

How long it takes to complete all educational aspects of a nursing degree varies by program.

“Depending on what general education courses they bring in, it can take 18 months to two years to become an RN,” Vickers said. “I think it’s a reasonable expectation for a student to go from deciding they want to become a nurse to actually graduating in three years.”

Piles said the primary determinant of success in nursing school is academic ability, but once out in the field other skills are equally valuable. These skills include the life experiences non traditional students generally have over their younger counterparts.

“The content is pretty advanced and it’s a lot at once at a quick schedule. The academic criteria needs to be there,” she said. “But the mature student, any student that’s had a little bit of life experience caring for others or has customer-service skills are also what I think most hospital systems are looking for.”

“We have a lot of students circle back after they have a degree in something else or after gaining life experience, and that’s something that’s important to us, too.”

“There are openings in a wide variety of fields and types of work in nursing.”

—Judy Pile, chancellor of Baptist Health College

NURSING STUDENTS AT BAPTIST HEALTH COLLEGE IN LITTLE ROCK.

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MOST IN-DEMAND NURSING SPECIALTIES Nurses choose their specialty while they’re in nursing school, and there are many to pick from. Here are some of the most in-demand according to nursejournal.org.

“It is a very common second career or second degree.”

—Jon Vickers, enrollment coordinator and academic counselor for the UA Little Rock Department of Nursing

1. Certified Dialysis Nurse This specialty assists individuals with severe kidney problems. It boasts an average salary of $63,500 and is expected to grow 26 percent by 2022.

2. Legal Nurse Consultant A certified legal nurse consultant provides consultative support on medical lawsuits.

It’s also expected to grow 26 percent and pays $62,100.

3. Nurse Midwife A nurse midwife delivers babies and provides health care before, during and after the birth for both mother and child. This specialty is expected to grow 31 percent by 2022 and pays $79,000 per year.

4. Nurse Anesthetist This nurse provides patients with anesthesia when they are being prepared for surgery. Experts say it will grow by 22 percent by 2022 and pays $154,300.

5. Nurse Case Manager Monitoring the progress of patients and suggesting alternative treatments are two of the job duties of the nurse case manager.

This specialty pays just over $68,000 and is expected to grow 26 percent by 2022.

32 MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

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HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Ecotherapy

Natural Stress Relief May is Mental Health Month and a time to highlight the invisible distress those in our day-to-day lives may be facing, as well as a few non-perscription ways to help

BY MELISSA TUCKER

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, “Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older.”

The association reports anxiety disorders are treatable but only 36 percent of those suffering receive treatment.

Of that number, even fewer choose to treat their symptoms with pharmaceuticals and turn to alternative forms of treatment such as ecotherapy, meditation, yoga, CBD oil or other supplements, and sensory deprivation tanks, just to name a few. Here’s a rundown of those treatments and how they work:

34 MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

According to Harvard Health Publishing, research has shown time spent in nature, also known as ecotherapy, can reduce stress, anxiety and depression.

“It's not clear exactly why outdoor excursions have such a positive mental effect. Yet, in a 2015 study, researchers compared the brain activity of healthy people after they walked for 90 minutes in either a natural setting or an urban one,” the article said. “They found that those who did a nature walk had lower activity in the prefrontal cortex, a brain region that is active during rumination—defined as repetitive thoughts that focus on negative emotions.”

Mindfulness Meditation

With roots in Buddhism, mindfulness meditation has become more well-known over past decades as a secular activity. In a nutshell, participants learn to pay attention to when their minds wander off and then come back to the present moment by focusing on their breath. Sessions can last from 5 to 10 minutes for beginners, and many guided meditations are available on YouTube.

In a study by the National Institutes of Health to determine the effects of mindfulness meditation on anxiety using meditation training and MRI scans to determine changes in the brain, “the present findings verify that brief mindfulness meditation training can reliably attenuate anxiety, even in the absence of a moodinducing manipulation or a generalized anxiety disorder.”

Sensory deprivation

One of the latest local trends in addressing anxiety, depression, insomnia and other physical ailments such as fibromyalgia or arthritis is floatation therapy.

The FLOATspa in Little Rock and Hot Springs offers this floatation tank treatment that temporarily removes the sensation of gravity. The shallow float tank is filled with a concentrated epsom salt solution, which is heated to the temperature of your skin. The result is a feeling of relaxation and weightlessness, which can help the body reset and recover from stress.

“It’s amazing just for relaxation alone. An hour in the tank is worth four hours of rest,” said FLOATspa manager Lisa Mejia. “People fall asleep in there all the time. People say, ‘I can float in the bathtub at home’ but they will come out and be a totally different person with a smile on their face and so relaxed.”

The definitive benefits of float tanks in the treatment of anxiety are still being researched, but the stories Mejia hears from clients who are suffering give her hope. She had one client with fibromyalgia who would buy the three floats for $100 package.

“She said that was the only relief she ever got,” Mejia said. “She would try massages as well, but the biggest benefit she ever got was from floating.”

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Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older. —ADAA

Supplements

Ann Birchard, the owner of Ann’s Health Food Store in Sherwood, has many recommendations for people who suffer from anxiety, depending on their symptoms and what their primary care physician or therapist might have suggested.

She said sometimes it’s a matter of being deficient in B vitamins and magnesium. And sometimes people turn to adaptive herbs that, over time, help them adapt to stress. Some of these are ginseng, ashwagandha, rhodiola and passionflower, which she says can also help those addicted to opioids.

“Rhodiola is one Dr. Oz talked about,” she said. “It’s an adaptive herb, but it won’t make you tired. So many of these anti-anxiety supplements make you tired.”

Another supplement she recommends that’s frequently used in Germany is called SAM-e.

“It helps with pain and relaxation. Some people going to a psychiatrist don’t want to be on a medication, and the therapist will tell them to try SAM-e,” she said.

Another popular supplement in her shop is CBD. Made from a compound in cannabis, the concentrated CBD can be turned into oil or tinctures and has no trace of the THC that causes a high.

“CBD is wonderful,” she said. “We’ve had so many people do so good on it, even kids that have Tourette’s. We have people that lower their blood pressure with CBD.” According to a 2013 review published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, CBD can reduce nausea, suppress seizure activity, reduce inflammation, combat neurodegenerative disorders and also combat anxiety and schizophrenia.

On Display April 27 - October 27 This interactive exhibit features giant sea life sculptures made entirely of trash! www.ClintonPresidentialCenter.org @ClintonCenter 36 MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

Sponsored by:

SAVVYKIDSAR.COM | MAY 2019

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kid approved Newborn Necessities THESE DOT MUSLIN SWADDLES FROM WEST ELM ARE PERFECT FOR SWADDLING HANK FOR BED, PROVIDING A LITTLE EXTRA COVER WITHOUT BEING TOO HEAVY, OR KEEPING IN HIS BAG IN CASE I NEED TO LAY HIM DOWN SOMEWHERE UNEXPECTED.

DRESSING A BABY CAN BE HARD WITH ONLY TWO HANDS! ONE-PIECE OUTFITS THAT ZIP OR BUTTON ARE THE EASIEST TO GRAB AND WRANGLE. WE LOVE THESE FROM TRENDYPRINTSHOP.COM AND THE STAX MUSEUM GIFT SHOP.

AFTER SPENDING FOUR NIGHTS IN THE HOSPITAL, MY SKIN NEEDED SOME SERIOUS ATTENTION. THE FLASH FIX KIT FROM SUNDAY RILEY PUT SOME LIFE BACK INTO MY SKIN.

JENNIFER FREEMAN THOMPSON

AFTER SPENDING MOST OF HER LIFE SCOFFING AT THE IDEA OF HAVING KIDS, JENNIFER FREEMAN THOMPSON GAVE BIRTH TO HANK LAST DECEMBER AT THE AGE OF 43. KNOWING ABSOLUTELY NOTHING ABOUT PREPARING FOR MOTHERHOOD, SHE CROWDSOURCED HER BABY REGISTRY, WATCHES ENDLESS YOUTUBE VIDEOS ON SLEEP TRAINING AND FREQUENTLY CALLS HER SISTER-IN-LAW TO FIND OUT IF HANK'S POOP LOOKS WEIRD. JENNIFER IS A MARKETING MANAGER BY DAY. SHE AND HER HUSBAND, CURT, LIVE IN PARK HILL WITH THEIR DOG, BEAR, AND CATS PANCHO AND LEFTY.

I WAS SURPRISED HOW IRRITATED HANK’S FACE GOT—EVEN FROM PRODUCTS MARKED “GENTLE.” I FOUND MUSTELA’S NO RINSE CLEANSING WATER. I USE IT EVERY MORNING TO WASH HIS FACE, NECK AND HEAD.

WHEN HANK FIRST CAME HOME AND ONLY SLEPT A FEW HOURS AT A TIME, I FOUND MYSELF SINGING TO HIM WHILE ROCKING HIM BACK TO SLEEP, SO I DECIDED TO MAKE HIM HIS OWN SPOTIFY MIX.

MY NIECE GAVE US A DIAPER CADDY FROM PARKER BABY CO. AND IT HAS BEEN EXTREMELY HELPFUL—ESPECIALLY IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT WHEN I NEED TO BE ABLE TO GRAB THINGS WITHOUT A LOT OF LIGHT. SHE WAS EVEN KIND ENOUGH TO FILL IT WITH SCENTED DISPOSABLE DIAPER SACKS FROM SASSY BABY.

WHILE BUYING CLOTHES FOR LITTLE ONES MAY BE THE MOST TEMPTING GIFT-GIVING OPTION, A MORE PERMANENT ALTERNATIVE IS TO GIVE BOOKS. I KNOW WE WILL ENJOY THESE AND THE OTHERS WE RECEIVED FOR MANY YEARS TO COME.

I DIDN’T HAVE ANYTHING LIKE THE INGENUITY DREAM COMFORT AUTOMATIC ROCKING SLEEPER ON MY REGISTRY, BUT A GOOD FRIEND GIFTED IT TO ME, ANYWAY. IT HAS ALLOWED ME TO SNEAK BACK TO BED FOR A FEW MORE MINUTES IN THE MORNING.

38 MAY 2019 | SAVVYKIDSAR.COM

Catch some fun at the

Catch Some Fun At h Some Fun At

COMMUNITY FISHING EVENT MACARTHUR PARK

SATURDAY, MAY 18 • 8 A.M.-1 P.M. Register online: www.c1a.life Event day registration begins at 7:30 a.m.

FISHING CLINIC COMMUNITY FISHING EVENT ISHINGWITT CLINIC COMMUNITY FISHING EVENT STEPHENS JR. CENTRAL ARKANSAS MACARTHUR PARK

HENS JR. CENTRAL ARKANSAS MACARTHUR PARK NATURE CENTERFirst Alliance Inc. ent in the state.

Community SATURDAY, MAY 18 • 8 A.M.-1 P.M. NATURE CENTER SATURDAY, MAY 18 • 8 A.M.-1 P.M. APRIL 11 • 6-7:30 P.M. amily and11THURSDAY, Community Fishing Program have Register online: www.c1a.life DAY, APRIL • 6-7:30 P.M. Register online: www.c1a.life Call 501-907-0636 to register.

Event day registration begins at 7:30 a.m.

501-907-0636 register.games and full of fun,tofood, prizes.

Activities Event day registration begins at 7:30 a.m. y health The fair, fish demonstration, wild Big Catchcooking is fishing the largest event in theAlliance state. Community First Alliance Inc. atch is the largest community eventcommunity in the state.fishing Community First Inc. and Arkansas Game and Fish Family Program and Community Fishing Program have Arkansas andthe Fish Commission Family andCommission Community Fishing have fishingGame gear.

Lunch will be provided.

partnered to provide withgames a dayand fullprizes. of fun,Activities food, games and prizes. Activities d to provide the entire family with a the dayentire full of family fun, food, archeryaand BB gun health shooting, community health fair, fishwild cooking demonstration, wild chery and BBinclude gun shooting, community fair,afish cooking demonstration, andfishing more.gear.

BringLunch your will ownbefishing gear. Lunch will be provided. game tasting and more.game Bringtasting your own provided.

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