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August 2014 | FREE

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Mary shares...

Growing

Kids

Gardening Series

Introduce your kids to the wonders of nature! The curriculum that goes beyond the book For ages Pre-K – Kindergarten The Garden Project teaches kids the importance of working with nature and the beneﬁts it provides. Children are encouraged to use their creative abilities to discover more about nature which will bring joy and excitement into their world. They will develop speciﬁc skills according to their age group. The process appeals to young minds as we introduce many fast paced activities which brings out their full potential.

Sessions Begin in September CALL NOW TO ENROLL Nancy McGinnis 972.302.0918

Catching Kindness!

f all the responsibilities of parents, teaching kindness should be at the top of the list. I know most of you have at some point said to your child, “oh, that’s not nice,” and your child looked blankly at you. Well, that’s when we explain what they did and how it was not nice; followed by what would have been nice. Teaching moments come throughout the life cycle; beginning with sharing haring toys, kissing boo-boos, and hugging a crying sibling. As our children grow up and are socially active we need to understand that for them to comprehend the true value of kindness, its best when caught, not taught. Our children will only understand how to be kind by witnessing it from parents, other adult role models, other children, and given opportunities. I can remember my kids wanting to have a lemonade stand. It was right when Katrina came through Louisiana. I asked them what they were going to do with the money. They were not sure; so we discussed what was going on around us in our community and state. Then their eyes lit up! We continued to discuss the impact of the deadliest hurricane in the history of the United

States and they decided to call their campaign “Lemon-“AID” for Lives.” Well, our neighbors were amazingly kind! Most stopped just to donate to the cause and thanked the kids for giving them a way to help too. My son ran to me and said “Mom, this guy emptied a container ﬁlled with quarters, like 100 of them!” And the generosity was contagious and large! They did this for two days and were thrilled. The Spirit of o Texas fund accepted the money from the lemon-aid campaign, took pictures for the local paper and our kids, well they were empowered knowing they were helping many people in two different ways. For contributing all the money they collected to a fund set up to help the victims; and for giving an avenue for our neighbors to contribute to this cause (the Lemon-AID stand) as well. Not too long ago, researchers at the University of Michigan found that college age kids were less likely to look at situations from another point of view and would likely focus on their own need above others. They coined this as an empathy deﬁciency. We, the parents, can reverse this! And you can start with a lemon-aid stand. SP

Mary Ellen

“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” — Benjamin Franklin

COVER MODEL Analese, 12 years old This young lady is the 6th of nine siblings! She enjoys being home-schooled and loves gymnastics, ballet, chasing bunnies and observing wildlife. One day Analese hopes to become President of the USA Kristin Kritz Photography, kkritz@txsdesign.com

Suburban Parent magazines Suburban Parent 8344 Sterling Street | Irving, Texas 75063 | 972.887.7779 editor@suburbanparent.com | advertising@suburbanparent.com Suburban Parent and Irving Parent are registered trademarks. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit all submissions due to space. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission is prohibited.

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love

the One You’re With! When you consider all the factors that shape your personality; your genes, parents, peers, you should know that your siblings are at the top, according to one major theory of human development. Sibling relationships will likely last longer than any others in your lifetime. Studies show that the way you interact with your siblings while growing up can affect your relationships, happiness, and even the way you see yourself throughout the rest of your life.

STERILIZE YOUR SPONGE

Toothpaste! Not Just for Teeth Toothpaste doesn’t just clean your teeth and make your breath smell fresh, it can also clean those stinky garlic or fish smells off your hands after you’ve been cooking in the kitchen. Just rub a small dab in your hands and the odor is gone. It’s best to use regular white paste, not gel. So next time you’re at the store, grab some toothpaste for the kitchen.

Your dish sponge is easily one of the dirtiest things in your kitchen (harbors bacteria) and it needs to be cleaned and sanitized often; at least every other day is a good idea. You can toss it in the dishwasher to get it clean, but to really decontaminate it, toss it in the microwave. Two minutes at full power and your sponge will be practically bacteria free. Note: Microwave only sponges or plastic scrubbers that don’t contain steel or metals. Also, make sure the sponge is wet before microwaving it and be careful when removing it. It will be hot!

SEE MORE USES ONLINE ... www.suburbanparent.com

youshouldknow... Eat to Remember During the memory decline years you can stay sharp by eating foods that protect the brain from free-radicals. Recent studies published in Neurology found people with low levels of omega-3s had brains that appeared two years older in MRI scans! Prescription, heavy on produce, legumes, nuts and ﬁsh, less meat. It’s that simple! May want to supplement with B12 and Vit.D (ask your doctor).

germs be gone If you have little ones at home then hen you proba probaobably have lots of little plastic toyss lying ly ying g around aroun ar o d the house too (think legos!) You likely have lots of bath toys in the bathroom as well. When was the last time you washed these? Well, here’s a tip! You can wash these in your washing machine. Just put the toys in a mesh bag, place in machine and add a couple of towels at the same time. Use warm, not hot, water. It’s easy and an especially good idea if your kids have been sick. You can wash toys in the dishwasher too (minus the towels) on the top rack. Just make sure there aren’t any electronic parts.

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momsolvers

questions... RANDY, DAD OF ONE

JACKIE, SOON-TO-BE MOM OF 3

SHERRI, MOM OF ONE

asks...

Q Dear Editor, My teenager seems to be what I may consider a slow learner. How can I help him to focus more on the task at hand?

Q I am considering marriage again.

Q How can I tell if my child is shy

Well, you actually have part of the answer for this in your question. Help him to realize that multi-tasking is less effective. Research actually suggests that multi-tasking can make learning less effective because switching from one activity to another is less efﬁcient and he may make more errors. Have him become more efﬁcient by setting a pre-determined amount of time to study, read, explore or create. One subject at a time.

MARY ELLEN, EDITOR

My ﬁancé has 2 children, ages 8 and 11 (boys); I have one 13 year old girl. I am divorced and he is widowed. What’s the best scenario for blending our families?

Congratulations! While blending a family can bring so much joy, the initial phases of becoming a family can be challenging. It’s important to remember that you and your husband will be the foundation of this new relationship. Being open to change is important. Healthy blended families are patient; keep re-assessing expectations and work on forming healthy step-relationships. Consulting with each other before setting expectations is imperative for success. Family therapy for blended families serves as a critical tool to give members a safe and neutral ground to discuss issues and possibly minimize resentment.

SHEEZA MOHSIN-DHANANI, PHD STUDENT, TWU - FAMILY THERAPY

ask... the ob/gyn DR. KEVIN O’NEIL MACARTHUR OB/GYN

or scared of other children?

It’s important to pay attention to your child’s physical responses inside their body in these situations. Does your child exhibit a physiological change when around other children? Fear responses can create increased heartbeat, create rapid breathing, ﬁght or ﬂight responses, or a child can freeze up and become paralyzed with fear. A child who does not exhibit these physical changes may simply be shy and guarded around peers. A child may cling to their caregiver for emotional safety in these situations. With either the shy or frightened child, the caregiver’s role remains the same which is to provide emotional support and safety for the child through the child’s experiences.

ROBI HEALTH, M.ED, LPC, REGISTERED PLAY THERAPIST

I AM FEELING PRESSURE IN MY PELVIC AREA; MY FRIEND SAID IT COULD BE UTERINE PROLAPSE. I AM ONLY 32 YEARS OLD WITH TWO TERM PREGNANCIES (5 YEAR OLD AND 2 YEAR OLD). SHOULD I BE WORRIED?

It is possible that you have utero-vaginal prolapse. Prolapse is caused by a weakening of the muscles and connective tissues of the pelvic floor. The risk of developing prolapse increases with each delivery, age and weight gain. Prolapse symptoms can be managed conservatively with weight loss (if needed), pelvic floor exercises and Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, avoiding surgery. A visit to your ObGyn can confirm if you have prolapse, and if needed, a referral to an Urogynecologist for Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation can help your symptoms. — Dr. Kevin O’Neil specializes in Urogynecology along with Obstetrics and Gynecology.

EMAIL YOUR QUESTIONS to editor@suburbanparent.com, subject “questions” or SUBMIT QUESTIONS ON FACEBOOK.COM/MOMSOLVERS. Either way, we’ll ﬁnd answers! 8 | Suburban Parent | Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Suburban Parent!

Dabbawalla

Bag POP CLOCK

An alarm that will “pop” your kid out of bed! It’s great for kiddos just learning to get out of bed by themselves. When the alarm goes off, the creature’s head pops off and ﬂies across the room making a boomboom chicka kind of noise. The alarm only stops when you ﬁnd his head and put it back on the clock. It’s actually kind of fun and your kid may wake and wait for the pop! Four bright colors to choose from and has two older siblings, Clocky and Tocky to help wake up your older kids too.

These are the cutest back packs and lunch bags ever! And they have a really fun name, too, that was inspired by the legendary dabbawallas delivering homemade lunch to ofﬁce workers in India. Functional, easy to pack and unpack, with adjustable straps and sturdy handles. These bags are sized perfectly for preschool and early elementary school children. Machine-washable and 100% toxic free. With 13 whimsical designs to choose from, kids will love them! FIND IT: www.dabbawallabags.com $30

PERSONALIZED PENCIL

pouch! Not just for pencils; but they do ﬁt great! There’s an outside zip pouch for erasers and change too. Plus, the inside pouch has a 1 1/2” expanding gusset to hold even more! Multi-colored nylon kids pencil pouch. Personalize with a name!

FIND IT: www.nandahome.com $25

FIND IT: www.MilesKimball.com $11.99

Simply Stylish W love this top for We “mom-time” while the “m kids are in school. The ki off the shoulder neckline of is attractive and you can pair it with your favorite pa jeans or over your workje ou out clothes (hint!) Light w weight fabric. F FIND IT: w www.loveandsweat.net $3 $35 (sale price)

Ava

to the Rescue e Tired of the tears and tantrums thatt come with getting g your children to take their heir medicine? Enter Ava the Elephant; the talking, ing, child-friendly medicine dispenser, as featured ured on ABC’s Shark Tank. FIND IT: www.avatheelephant.com $9.99

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moMENts BY PATRICK HEMPFING

Learning to Chill

don’t enjoy packing for trips. In fact, I’d almost rather have my dentist fix a cavity without novocaine. Don’t ask me how I managed to squeeze a high chair, stroller, and playpen into the van, along with the rest of our luggage, during my daughter, Jessie’s, baby years. I must admit that packing is a lot easier without that stuff. Jessie is eight years old now, so the most important piece of luggage is her “entertainment” suitcase – books, crayons, colored pencils, gel pens, paper, glue, scissors, and markers. Jessie’s bottles of glitter remain at home – always. To be honest, I wouldn’t be disappointed if they stayed in her art drawer – always. Wikipedia defines glitter as “an assortment of very small pieces of copolymer plastics, aluminum foil, titanium dioxide, iron oxides, bismuth oxychloride or other materials painted in metallic, neon and iridescent colors to reflect light in a sparkling spectrum.” I have my own definition, but I think its best not to put it in print. Let’s just say that I’m not a big fan. Jessie, on the other hand, can’t wait to do art projects using glitter. I enjoy watching her create things with Play-Doh. I applaud the masterpieces that she paints on her easel. I even smile when she pulls out her assorted containers of glue, even though I know that my fingers will end up sticking to something before all is said and done. But oh those very small pieces of copolymer plastics… According to Wikipedia, in 1934 machinist Henry Ruschmann invented a way to grind up plastics to make large quantities of glitter.

He founded Meadowbrook Inventions, still a major supplier of the substance. Its slogan is, “Our glitter covers the world.” I can’t verify the accuracy of the slogan, but I can attest that by the time Jessie finishes using it, glitter covers our house. Although I will never win a Good Housekeeping award for having the cleanest house, I do like to keep a tidy one. I’d give myself good grades for cleaning, except for dusting where I’d be happy with a C-. My wife and I were married for 19 years before Jessie came along. It was a lot easier to keep things tidy (and glitter-free) back then. When I compare our 19 years as a couple to the 8 years we’ve been a family of three (four really, with the dog), I have happy memories of both periods that I wouldn’t trade for anything. The status of the house (tidy or a mess) is not too important. That doesn’t mean, though, that I don’t need to take a few extra breaths when it seems like I’m taking one step forward and two steps back as I attempt to keep the house in order. I guess you could say I’m “learning to chill.” Jessie just finished making an 8-page, glitter-filled activity book at the kitchen table. She had so much fun working on this project as she drew ovals on the pages with glue, then buried them with glitter. Right now, glitter is everywhere – the table, chairs,

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floor, her clothing, and the dog. Even though I’ll vacuum the entire work area including her, glitter will somehow find its way into every room of the house. The “pre-chilled” dad would moan and groan. However, the “post-chilled” dad sees the sparkle in his child’s eyes, along with various places on her face and body, as she shows off her book. So thank you, Mr. Ruschmann, for your shimmery invention. But bigger thanks goes out to the inventor of the vacuum cleaner. Jessie prepared her activity book to take on an upcoming trip. She says it will make the time pass faster in the car. I praise Jessie for her creative idea and for taking responsibility for her own entertainment. However, that glitter-dripping book isn’t going anywhere near the family van. I guess I haven’t fully mastered the art of “chilling.” Here’s wishing you a fantastic summer of safe travels. May you be blessed with sufficient engineering skills to get everything packed. May you “chill” when your tank of patience runs on empty, which is bound to happen when family members are in a confined space for hours on end. But most importantly, may your travels leave you and your loved ones with glittering memories. Until next month, remember to cherish the moments. SP Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year professional career in banking, accounting, and auditing before he became a father at age 44. He is now a full-time husband, stay-at-home dad and writer.

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Tips for New Easing the rs School Jitte

Y QUESTIONS OF SCHOOL EACH FALL. SO MAN NIGHT BEFORE THE FIRST DAY BE NICE? THE RS RS CHE HOU TEA FOR MY KE LD AWA WOU G ME? I REMEMBER LYIN THE YEAR HAVE IN STORE FOR DID T K? WHA IN. WOR BRA THE MY DLE UND HAN FIT OKAY? COULD I WERE SWIRLING ARO LD I BE BULLIED? WAS MY OUT ! WOULD I MAKE FRIENDS? WOU STARTING A BRAND NEW SCHOOL WAS I N WHE RS YEA IN ER HIGH MY ANXIETY WAS EVEN n very scary and ransitioning to a new school is ofte ge is because chan the ther Whe . child a difﬁcult for next educathe to of a move or getting promoted liar faces fami nd behi ing leav tional stage, they are their new start to ed excit be t migh they le and routines. Whi on their ter chap the e clos adventure, they are likely sad to . them for ing wait is t wha for old school and anxious for many years and ation educ hood child early in I worked their nervous parents) get helped hundreds of children (and . I’m working on a different rten erga kind to ready to transition hter is heading to a new sort of transition plan now - my daug middle school!

get ready for a Here are 7 tips to help your child age. r thei of ss rdle new school, rega r old school. This is Allow them to say goodbye to thei of the

Tell them stories about al and natural part norm a it e Mak es. your school experienc site together and web ols of your conversation. Visit the scho h menus and basics lunc ed, offer ities read about the staff, activ s code. Tell your child how facts, such as arrival time and dres and that you think they’re ol excited you are for their new scho feel sad, angry, nervous may They . year going to have a great okay to feel that way. and afraid. Let them know that it’s

Talk about the new school often.

a new

they are entering Let them know what to expect. If , middle

in kindergarten phase, talk about what happens local bookstore or library the to Head school or high school. a similar phase. Read them for books featuring characters in characters are experiencing. the together and talk about what

re. Take photos a loss to them and they need closu tions within the school, loca or cts obje rite favo their school, members. Help them put staff ed their teachers and other valu with the pictures and m albu o phot or k pboo together a scra l or elementary school choo other mementos, such as their pres graduation “diploma”.

information for their Help them gather up the contact Arrange a way for them h. touc in stay friends, so they can ils or Skype.

e calls, texts, ema to maintain contact through phon within your same area, set ol If you are moving to a new scho the ﬁrst weeks of the new and mer sum the up play dates over from their old school are still school year. Knowing their friends ly as they make new friends. lone less out there will help them feel

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k down families who them about their with chat and dy attend the school alrea to meet other kids who experiences. Arrange for your child e friendships in the som attend the school, so they have

Connect with other students. Trac

works in advance. the school often. Point it re’s your new school!” each out to younger children, saying, “The your child to visit the and you time you pass by. Arrange for during the summer. tour a take and ipal princ school, meet the

Make the school familiar. Drive by

child will be taking the bus stops, route with liar fami me beco them the bus, help her child in your anot find to and rules before the first day. Try first week. SP the g durin dy” “bud have neighborhood so they

Learn about the bus system. If your

DI R E CTORY

ENJOY OUR DIRECTORY OF SPECIALISTS! We know Kids are Special. That’s why we have the Specialists.

Dentists

Schools

PARK DENTAL.....................................21 972-735-1788

ELDORADO MONTESSORI .......... 5 www.eldoradomontessori.com

Extra-curricular Activities

EPISCOPAL SCHOOL OF DALLAS...........................................18 www.esdallas.org

7 NOTES .................................................. 4 www.7-notes.com AQUATYKES........................................29 www.aquatykestx.com BROOK MAYS MUSIC CO. ........... 27 www.brookmays.com CINDY’S SCHOOL OF DANCE ...26 www.cindysschoolofdance.com FRISCO INDOOR SPORTS ........... 27 www.friscoindoorsports.com GROWING KIDS .................................. 4 972-302-0918

FIRST BAPTIST PLANO WEEKDAY SCHOOL ........................22 www.fbcplano.org/wds FRISCO MONTESSORI ACADEMY ...............................................7 www.friscomontessori.com GREAT LAKES ACADEMY.............19 www.greatllakesacademy.com GUTHRIE GIFTED EDUCATION ........................................ 27 www.guthriegifted.com

INTERNATIONAL CONSERVATORY OF PERFORMING ARTS ........25 www.planoartsmagnet.com

LITTLE ANGELS PRESCHOOL .......................................20 www.stgabriel.org

TEXAS PREMIER YOUTH SPORTS.....18 www.texaspremieryouthsports.com

MUDPIES AND LULLABIES .........29 www.mudpies-lullabies.com

THE PADDOCKS STABLES ..........26 www.paddocksinc.com

PRESTON MEADOWS MONTESSORI .....................................22 www.montessori.com

SAFESPLASH SWIM SCHOOL ...24 www.safesplash.com U.S. TAEKWONDO ACADEMY ....13 www.ustacademy.com

Pediatricians

PRIMROSE SCHOOLS ....................32 www.primroseschools.com PRINCE OF PEACE CATHOLIC SCHOOL........................20 www.popschool.net

CHILDREN’S CHOICE .....................30 www.childrenschoicepediatrics.com

SMALL MIRACLES ACADEMY ....31 www.smallmiraclesacademy.org

FRISCO PEDIATRICS ......................29 www.friscopeds.net

ST. PHILIP’S SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY CENTER ...................23 www.stphilips1600.org

FOREST LANE PEDIATRICS ........15 www.forestlanepediatrics.com

Schools CHILDREN’S GARDEN MONTESSORI ACADEMY ................3 www.cgmacademy.com CHRISTIAN LEARNING CENTER AT PRESTONWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH .................................................21 www.prestonwood.org/clc DISCOVERY MONTESSORI ACADEMY .............................................15 www.tydiscoverymontessori.com

THE GUTHRIE SCHOOL ...................9 www.guthrieschool.com THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE MCKINNEY ............................................13 www.mckinney.tlechildcare.com WILLOW BEND ACADEMY .........29 www.willowbendacademy.com

Special Needs BAYLOR OUR CHILDREN’S HOUSE AT BAYLOR.........................25 www.baylorhealth.com/OCH

To Advertise in Suburban Parent, Call 972.887.7779 | Suburban Parent | 15

the

{ Your Community Calendar } August 2014

know it all fri 1 GRAND OPENING-Back to School Savings! 10am-6pm. Come and celebrate with Brook Mays Music Company & save during the Grand Opening of our new location in Plano. 6921 Independence Pkwy at Legacy, Suite #120. 972-618-3222 www. brookmays.com $5.00 off all your back to school needs! See ad on in this issue.

Dallas Theater Center Presents Les Miserables Through August 17th. The most popular musical in the world takes over the Wyly Theatre with its glorious music and heartfelt story. In this thrilling new DTC production you will be immersed in this beloved story in a way you’ve never experienced it before: surrounded by the passion of the French revolution; engulfed by the romantic music; and overwhelmed by the experience of hope, redemption and forgiveness. Recommended for ages 10 and above. Matinee & Evening Performances. Check the website for speciﬁc dates/show times. Wyly Theatre, 2400 Flora St., Dallas, 214-880-0202 www. dallastheatercenter.org

2014 Young Authors 10:30-11:30am. This program is for Richardson residents entering 5th-9th grades Write, illustrate, and bind a picture book for preschoolers! Young Authors starts on Friday, June 13 a valid RPL library card is required. Register in the Youth Services department, or by calling 972-744-4358. Richardson Public Library, 900 Civic Center Drive, Richardson

Mad Scientists: STEAM Stories and More 2-3pm. Put on your lab coat and join us for some summertime STEAM fun (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math)-it might get messy! Each session will feature books, activities and experiments to reinforce STEAM principles. Registration for individual sessions required, opens two weeks prior to each program. Free Grades 1-5 Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000 www.planolibrary.org

SP = Advertisers

sat 2 Historic McKinney Farmers Market 8am-12pm. Local and organic meat, dairy, honey and produce vendors offer their wares every Saturday at Chestnut Square near downtown McKinney. Market vendors also offer sauces, canned goods, pasta, baked goods, wine and ﬂowers! Dixie’s Store at Chestnut Square will be open with Dr. Pepper, Cokes, old fashioned candy, ice cream, craft items and old fashioned toys for sale. Chestnut Square, 315 S Chestnut St, McKinney, www.chestnutsquare.org

Frisco Farmers Market 8am-1pm.

and learn what life was like over 100 years ago. For ages 6-12. 9am-1pm, aftercare is available. Heritage Homestead Museum, 1900 W. 15th Street, Plano, 972881-0140 www.heritagefarmstead.org

A Beka Book Home School Book Sale 10am-3pm. Home school curriculum and text book sale. Plano Centre, 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano, 972-941-5840, www.abecka.com

Murder on Mondays at Barnes and Noble, Plano 7-8pm. Join us on

A bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables creates a colorful welcome to those who appreciate the “buy fresh, buy local” idea. Frisco Square, 6048 Frisco Square Blvd., Frisco, www.friscofarmersmarket.com

the ﬁrst Monday of every month at 7pm to discuss contemporary and classic mysteries. Barnes and Noble, Plano, 2201 Preston Rd., Plano, 972.612-0999 www.barnesandnoble.com

Didgeridoo Down Under! 3-4pm.

Studio Movie Grill Children’s Summer Series See a different fam-

Didgeridoo Down Under! – A high-energy, Australian-themed show that combines music, culture, science, puppetry, comedy, character building, reading motivation and audience participation. The didgeridoo is known for its otherworldly sound. Free All Ages. Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000

ily-friendly movie each week of the summer for just $2 per ticket. Movies start at 11am. Check the website for a location close to you! August 4–8: Puss in Boots. Movie Studio Movie Grill, All D/FW Locations, www.studiomoviegrill.com

Dallas Mavericks Hoop Camp

sun 3 Summer Concert SeriesRichardson Community Band 7-8pm. Mark your calendars and come out for a free concert on the lawn this summer. Bring your chairs and a picnic and enjoy the sounds of summer. There is also plenty of room for kids to run around and play. Concerts last about an hour. Richardson Civic Center, 411 W. Arapaho, Richardson

mon 4 Creek Camp at Heritage Farmstead Museum Aug. 4-8, 9am-1pm Get outside and play by the creek. Explore plant and animal life, learn about the eco system, conduct experiments

Boys and girls ages 8-18 of all skill levels learn the game from the best camp coaching staff in Texas. Professional coaches are handpicked for their basketball knowledge and ability to work well with kids. Combining excellent coaching and a proven program focused on each camper, Dallas Mavericks Hoop Camp delivers valuable lessons and plenty of fun! Find more details and register online! Hoop Camp runs Monday – Friday. 9am4pm Cost: $240. Aug. 4-8, University of Texas at Dallas. 214-747-MAVS(6287) or hoopcamp@dallasmavs.com www.mavs. com/community/hoop-camp

tue 5 Kindergarten Kick Off 10-11am. Incoming Kindergarteners will get a taste of learning independently – without parents! Parents will join us at the end

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of the program for music, art projects and hands-on activities. Kids will also go home with some (fun) homework! For children entering kindergarten in fall 2014. Space is limited. Free tickets available on a ﬁrst come, ﬁrst served basis 30 minutes before the program. Free Ages 5-6. Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000

Super Science: Pinball Wizard 3-4pm. Pinball Wizard – Before there were video games, there were pinball machines! Come build a mini pinball machine that can shoot a marble and send it zigzagging down an obstacle course, while learning about the science that makes it work. One registration per family required. Registration opens July 22. Free All Ages. Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Built to Amaze 7:30pm. See more than 110 of the world’s best performers representing 17 countries along with 95 exotic and domestic animals. The show features a cowboy ringmaster, basketball with the legendary King Charles Troupe from New York City and, new to Ringling Bros., the Tower Tumblers, a troupe of competitive aerial athletes from the Ukraine. Get $10 tickets on opening night only. Arrive an hour early for the All-Access Preshow to learn juggling and balancing skills from the circus clowns. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, 800-7453000 www.ticketmaster.com

Free LEGO Mini Build 5-6:30pm. Children ages 6-15 ONLY can celebrate every month with a free mini build at LEGO stores at Stonebriar Mall & Northpark Center. First Tuesdays beginning at 5pm until all the kits are gone. LEGO stores in Dallas & Frisco. www.lego.com Primetime Picnic & A Movie 7-9pm Cool off with the movie Frozen (PG, 102 min) and a picnic dinner from home. Don’t forget your blanket! Free All Ages Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy., Plano, 972-769-4300

Frisco RoughRiders Baseball 7:05pm. RoughRiders take on the Springﬁeld Cardinals. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200

wed 6 Teen Robotics: EV3 Gyro Boy 1-5pm. Teen Robotics: EV3 Gyro Boy – Use the gyro sensor to balance this robotic boy on two wheels. You’ll program him to sense obstacles and move through his environment. Registration required. Registration opens July 23. Free, Ages 13-15. Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000

Women of Words Book Group at Barnes and Noble, Plano 7-8pm Barnes and Noble, Plano, 2201 Preston Rd., Plano, 972.612-0999 www. barnesandnoble.com

Frisco RoughRiders Baseball 7:05pm. RoughRiders take on the Springﬁeld Cardinals. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200

The Phantom of the Opera Through Aug. 24. Watch Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical The Phantom of the Opera, now on tour across North America. This Phantom features a new scenic design by Paul Brown, Tony Award-winning original costume design by Maria Björnson, lighting design by Tony Award-winner Paule Constable, new choreography by Scottambler, and a new staging by director Laurence Connor. This new production is suggested for audiences aged 6 and older. The show runs 2 hours and 45 minutes (including a 20-minute intermission), and includes gun shots and pyrotechnics. Parents are encouraged to consider these factors when making their decisions about attending the performance. Multiple dates/show times, check website for details and to purchase tickets. Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora Street, Dallas, 214-880-0202 www. attpac.org/phantom

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Built to Amaze 7:30pm. See more than 110 of the world’s best performers representing 17 countries along with 95 exotic and domestic animals. Get $10 tickets on opening night only. Arrive an hour early for the All-Access Preshow to learn juggling and balancing skills from the circus clowns. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, 800-7453000 www.ticketmaster.com

thu 7 Eco Tots Discovery Hour Summer Session Preschoolers and parents are invited to join us weekly from 9:30-10:30 a.m. on Thursdays for our

Eco Tots Discovery Hour. This program is designed for children 3-5 years old and includes stories, crafts and activities about the environment, gardening, or nature-related themes. Plan to stay and play in our outdoor Nature Explore Classroom as well. Cost $3/ Residents, $5/Non-Residents. August 7-Meet Freddie the Fish, Keep Creeks Clean. Environmental Education Center, 4116 W. Plano Pkwy., Plano, www. livegreeninplano.com

Kindergarten Kick Off 10am. Incoming Kindergarteners will get a taste of learning independently – without parents! Parents will join us at the end of the program for music, art projects and hands-on activities. Kids will also go home with some (fun) homework! For children entering kindergarten in fall 2014. Space is limited. Free tickets available on a ﬁrst come, ﬁrst served basis 30 minutes before the program. Free Ages 5-6. Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000 Super Science: Body Blast 3-4pm. Super Science: Body Blast – Check out our fake snot and then learn about your stomach, heart and lungs using simple experiments. One registration per family required. Registration opens July 24.Free All Ages. Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250

Parent Workshop: Organizing Special Education Paperwork 6-7:30pm. Documentation is one of the most important things you can do for you and your child when working with the Special Education system. This workshop helps parents understand the importance of documenting and organizing their child’s Special Education paperwork and teaches parents how and what to document. Free Adults. Harrington Library, 1501 18th Street, Plano, 972-941-7175

Frisco RoughRiders Baseball 7:05pm. RoughRiders take on the Springﬁeld Cardinals. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200

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the know it all fri 8 2014 Young Authors 10:30-11:30am. This program is for Richardson residents entering 5th-9th grades Write, illustrate, and bind a picture book for preschoolers! Young Authors starts on Friday, June 13 a valid RPL library card is required. Register in the Youth Services department, or by calling 972-744-4358. Richardson Public Library, 900 Civic Center Drive, Richardson

Rebel Time Party 3-4pm Calling all Whovians! Celebrate the new Doctor with related activities, crafts, and a photobooth. Honor your favorite Doctor, companion or villain by dressing up. Free Grades 6-12. Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250 SNAP Dance in Allen 7-10pm. Come SNAP your ﬁngers and shufﬂe your feet at our Special Needs Adapted Program! Dances feature live music, a fun and creative theme, snacks and a commemorative photo that is mailed to each participant’s home! Each dance takes place the second Friday of every month. Register early, the fee increases to $15 at 5 p.m. the Wednesday prior to each dance. Upcoming SNAP Dance Theme August 8-SportsFriday, Recreation Hall, 105 S. Anna Dr., Allen, 214.509-4707 www.cityofallen.org Frisco RoughRiders Baseball 7:05pm. RoughRiders take on the Tulsa Drillers. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200

sat 9 Runway Revue 12-6pm. Join us at

From robotics and science to rugby and fencing – there’s something for everyone to discover this summer. Join the fun at www.esdallas.org/summercamp

Galleria in Dallas! THE source of fall fashion trends for the 2014 Runway Revue! Enjoy the State’s Sales Tax Holiday too (August 8-10). A full day of high-energy runway shows highlighting the top trends for fall. This free event gives everyone in the family the inside track on what to wear and how to wear it for back-to-school and the fall season. Hosted by Galleria Dallas Fashion Stylist, Holly Quartaro. Runway Revue showcases fall fashions from more than 200 retailers like H&M, Apricot Lane, Belk, BCBGeneration, and Macy’s. Three

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professional runway shows at noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. The day closes with the high-energy Toni & Guy Hairdressing Academy’s 21st Annual Student Show at 6 p.m. 13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas, Texas, 972-702-7100 www.galleriadallas.com

Doctor Who Photo Op 12-3:30pm. Snap a photo with the TARDIS and characters from Doctor Who. Courtesy of the USS Joshua fan group and subject to change without notice Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Wylie, 972-516-6250

Bingo/Game Night PLUS 6-11pm. We’ll have a blast playing good ole fashioned BINGO and winning FUN prizes. PLUS, a new fun family connect activity! Connect with your family over the value of the month and we’ll send you home with a tool to elevate that value at home, too! Bring your own dinner or enjoy drinks/snacks from the $1 café. (EVERY second Saturday!)This Side Up! Family Center provides affordable fun, cultivates strong relationships, encourages diverse community, equips families and champions family values. This Side Up! Family Center, 1100 Capital Ave, Plano, www.thissideupfamily.org Frisco RoughRiders Baseball 7:05pm. RoughRiders take on the Tulsa Drillers. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200

FC Dallas Soccer 8pm FC Dallas takes on Colorado. Toyota Stadium, 9200 World Cup Way, Frisco, 469-3650000 www.fcdallas.com Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Built to Amaze 11am, 3:30 & 7:30pm. See more than 110 of the world’s best performers representing 17 countries along with 95 exotic and domestic animals. The show features a cowboy ringmaster, basketball with the legendary King Charles Troupe from New York City and, new to Ringling Bros., the Tower Tumblers, a troupe of competitive aerial athletes from the Ukraine. Get $10 tickets on opening night only. Arrive an hour early for the All-Access Preshow to learn juggling and balancing skills from the circus clowns. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, 800-7453000 www.ticketmaster.com

sun 10 Open House at Frisco Montessori Academy 2-4pm. Frisco Montessori Academy, 8890 Meadow Hill Dr, Frisco, 972-712-7400 www. friscomontessori.com. See ad in this issue.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Built to Amaze 10:30am, 2:30 & 6:30pm. See more than 110 of the world’s best performers representing 17 countries along with 95

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the know it all exotic and domestic animals. The show features a cowboy ringmaster, basketball with the legendary King Charles Troupe from New York City and, new to Ringling Bros., the Tower Tumblers, a troupe of competitive aerial athletes from the Ukraine. Get $10 tickets on opening night only. Arrive an hour early for the All-Access Preshow to learn juggling and balancing skills from the circus clowns. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, 800-7453000 www.ticketmaster.com

Frisco RoughRiders Baseball 7:05pm. RoughRiders take on the Tulsa Drillers Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200

mon 11 Doctor Who Scavenger Hunt Celebrate the return of the Doctor by completing our scavenger hunt. Successful participants may enter the prize drawing. Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Wylie, 972-516-6250

Math Camp 10-11:30am. Improve basic math skills in this new summer camp geared for struggling math students entering 3rd and 4th grades. Workbooks will be provided. Registration required. Registration opens July 28. Free. Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Road, Plano, 972-769-4200

Dallas Mavericks Hoop Camp Boys and girls ages 8-18 of all skill levels learn the game from the best camp coaching staff in Texas. Professional coaches are handpicked for their basketball knowledge and ability to work well with kids. Combining excellent coaching and a proven program focused on each camper, Dallas Mavericks Hoop Camp delivers valuable lessons and plenty of fun! Find more details and register online! Hoop Camp runs Monday – Friday. 9am-4pm Cost: $240. Aug. 11-15, Collin County Community College – Spring Creek Campus. 214-747-MAVS(6287) or hoopcamp@dallasmavs.com

Studio Movie Grill Children’s Summer Series See a different family-friendly movie each week of the summer for just $2 per ticket. Movies start at 11am. Check the website for a location close to you! August 11–14: Madagascar 3. Movie Studio Movie Grill, All D/FW Locations, www.studiomoviegrill.com

Family Robotics: Hungry Alligator 3-4:30pm. Learn about pulleys and belts as you build an alligator that will snap at your ﬁngers! Families will build and program beginner robots with our LEGO WeDo kits and work as engineers, scientists and mathematicians to create and experiment. One registration per family required, opens two weeks prior to each program. Limited to 12 families per session. Free All Ages. Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250

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tue 12 Kindergarten Kick Off 10am. Incoming Kindergarteners will get a taste of learning independently – without parents! Parents will join us at the end of the program for music, art projects and hands-on activities. Kids will also go home with some (fun) homework! For children entering kindergarten in fall 2014. Space is limited. Free tickets available on a first come, first served basis 30 minutes before the program. Free Ages 5-6. Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000 La Leche League Plano 10:3011:30am. Room 122. LEADER INFORMATION: Beth 972-747-1297; Cleo cleo6924@aol.com; Lynnee 469-8550647 lmburns30@sbcglobal.net. Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 3601 W 15th St, Plano, www.texaslll.org Family Robotics: Hungry Alligator 3-4:30pm. Learn about pulleys and belts as you build an alligator that will snap at your fingers! Families will build and program beginner robots with our LEGO WeDo kits and work as engineers, scientists and mathematicians to create and experiment. One registration per family required, opens two weeks prior to each program. Limited to 12 families per session. Free All Ages. Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250

Wagging Tales at Smith Public Library 3:30-4:15pm Doggies need books too! Come perfect your reading aloud skills by reading to Abby. Tickets are free and required. They are handed out at the children’s desk beginning at 2pm the day of the program. Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Wylie, 972-516-6250

wed 13 Teen Robotics: EV3 Puppy Pal 1-5pm. Teen robotics: EV3 Puppy Pal – Learn about if-then statements as you build a robotic dog that barks, responds to being petted, goes to sleep, and eats his bone. Registration required. Registration opens July 30. Free Ages 13-15. Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000

Family Robotics: Hungry Alligator 3-4:30pm Learn about pulleys and belts as you build an alligator that will snap at your ﬁngers! Families will build and program beginner robots with our LEGO WeDo kits and work as engineers, scientists and mathematicians to create and experiment. One registration per family required, opens two weeks prior to each program. Limited to 12 families per session. Free All Ages. Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250

Twisted Threads at the Allen Public Library 6:30-8pm. Do you knit? Or crochet? Or make spectacular things with thread and yarn? If so, Twist-

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the know it all • Teacher/Student Ratios: Infants 2/8 Toddlers 2/10 Twos 2/16 Threes 2/20 PreK 2/21

• 6 Weeks Old through PreK • Monday-Friday 7am-6pm • Safe, loving, and nurturing Christian environment

“We highly recommend the Weekday School to anyone looking for a loving, learning environment for their children.” Stephanie A. (children enrolled 2009 - present)

ed Threads is for you! Twisted Threads is a social group for knitters, crocheters, felters, quilters, and any other type of craft done with thread or yarn! All skill levels are welcome! So, bring your latest project and work on it in the company of other ﬁber crafters. Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Dr., Allen, 214.5094904 www.cityofallen.org

Teddy Bear Camp Out 7-8pm. Bring your teddy bear (or bunny, cat, or even giraffe) and a blanket for our campout storytime. After a few stories and songs, kids can leave their stuffed animals at the library for a sleepover and then look for pictures of their nighttime adventures on our Flickr page the next day. Free All Ages Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Road, Plano, 972-769-4200

thu 14

BROOKE 5 Years Old • Aug 20

Upload your Birthday Kids picture at www.suburbanparent.com Please submit by the 10th of the month prior to the month of their birthday to be included in our print edition. No copyrighted photos.

EcoTots Discovery Hour Summer Session 9:30-10:30am Preschool-

www.fbcplano.org/wds

972-422-5904 • melodyw@fbcplano.org Located at 1300 E. 15th Street (near Downtown Plano)

ers and parents are invited to join us weekly from 9:30-10:30 a.m. on Thursdays for our Eco Tots Discovery Hour. This program is designed for children 3-5 years old and includes stories, crafts and activities about the environment, gardening, or nature-related themes. Plan to stay and play in our outdoor Nature Explore Classroom as well. Cost $3/Residents, $5/Non-Residents. August 14-Love YOUR Water. Environmental Education Center, 4116 W. Plano Pkwy., Plano, www.livegreeninplano.com

Kindergarten Kick Off 10am. Incoming Kindergarteners will get a taste of learning independently – without parents! Parents will join us at the end of the program for music, art projects and hands-on activities. Kids will also go home with some (fun) homework! For children entering kindergarten in fall 2014. Space is limited. Free tickets available on a ﬁrst come, ﬁrst served basis 30 minutes before the program. Free Ages 5-6. Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000 Family Robotics: Hungry Alligator 3-4:30pm. Learn about pulleys and

admission, $7 seniors (62 +) and 12 & under free. Cash only. Admission good for one day. Plano Centre, 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano, 972-9415840 www.quiltersguildofplano.org/ quiltplano/quiltplano.shtml

Tails on the Trail 8-10pm Meet at the library steps to take a walk on the Chisholm Trail and listen to a story. Then cool off in the library with fun activities. Free All Ages. Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Road, Plano, 972-769-4200.

sat 16 Open House at Eldorado Montessori 10am-2pm. Eldorado Montessori, 11600 Teel Pkwy., Frisco, 972-334-9444 www.eldoradomontessori.com. See ad in this issue.

Saturday Games at the Rowlett Public Library 10:30-noon. Families are invited to join us on the third Saturday of every month for a free program for all ages, play games in the Meeting Room from 10:30am–noon, then check out books, DVDs, CDs and more at your Rowlett Public Library! Free and open to all ages. Rowlett Public Library, 3900 Main St., Rowlett, www.ci.rowlett.tx.us

belts as you build an alligator that will snap at your ﬁngers! Families will build and program beginner robots with our LEGO WeDo kits and work as engineers, scientists and mathematicians to create and experiment. One registration per family required, opens two weeks prior to each program. Limited to 12 families per session. Free All Ages. Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250

sun 17

fri 15

Summer Concert Series-Richardson Community Band 7pm.

Quilt Plano 2014 9am-5pm. Quilt Plano 2014 will feature over 300 quilts on display and over 45 vendors. They will also have free skill demonstrations, a mini quilt auction, an award-winning rafﬂe quilt, door prizes and children’s activities. Presented annually by the Quilters Guild of Plano, Inc. $8 general

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Mark your calendars and come out for a free concert on the lawn this summer. Bring your chairs and a picnic and enjoy the sounds of summer. There is also plenty of room for kids to run around and play. Concerts last about an hour. Richardson Civic Center, 411 W. Arapaho, Richardson, info@richardsoncommunityband.org

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the know it all Celebrate Pets 3pm. Eat a meal at the bistro and enjoy activities that celebrate pets, including a color-in bandanna craft that shows off her American Girl pet’s one-of-a-kind style. Plus, take home a special book and a set of Crayola Fabric Markers. Reservations are required. For girls ages 8 and older. American Girl Boutique and Bistro, 13464 Dallas Parkway, Dallas, 877-2475223, www.americangirl.com

mon 18 Studio Movie Grill Children’s Summer Series See a different family-friendly movie each week of the summer for just $2 per ticket. Movies start at 11am. Check the website for a location close to you! August 18–22: Rugrats Movie. Movie Studio Movie Grill, All D/ FW Locations, www.studiomoviegrill.com

tue 19 Wagging Tales at Smith Public Library 3:30-4:15pm. Doggies need books too! Come perfect your reading aloud skills by reading to Abby. Tickets are free and required. They are handed out at the children’s desk beginning at 2pm the day of the program. Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Wylie, 972-516-6250

Frisco RoughRiders Baseball 7:05pm. RoughRiders take on the San Antonio Missions. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972731-9200

wed 20 BOOKbabble Book Discussion Group 10:30-11:45am. BOOKbabble Book Discussion Group 3rd Wednesday Group. Join the Library’s book discussion group, BOOKbabble. Each month, members read and discuss the best in literary ﬁction, memoir and biography. Meetings are held at 10:30am on the third Wednesday of every month. Preregistration is required. Please call Janet Vance or Penny Manly at 972.7444350 to sign up. Go online for additional BOOKbabble group options. Richardson Public Library, 900 Civic Center Dr., Richardson, www.cor.net

Mother Daughter Book Club at Barnes and Noble, Plano 7-8pm Join us on the third Wednesday of every month for an engaging conversation that only moms and their daughters can share! Barnes and Noble, Plano, 2201 Preston Rd., Plano, 972.612-0999 www. barnesandnoble.com

Frisco RoughRiders Baseball 7:05pm. RoughRiders take on the San Antonio Missions. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972731-9200

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thu 21 La Leche League of McKinney 10:15-11:45am. LEADER INFORMATION: Autumn 559-312-3873 wintermermaid@ gmail.com; DeeDee 972-838-9135 dlynn@dfwair.net; Marie 972-800-9216 mamasmilk13@gmail.com. First United Methodist Church, 315 N. Church St, McKinney, www.texaslll.org

McKinney Farmers Market at Adriatica 3-7pm. Local and organic meat, dairy, honey and produce vendors offer their wares every Thursday at Adriatica on McKinney’s west side. Market vendors also offer sauces, canned goods, pasta, baked goods, wine and ﬂowers! Open 3pm-7pm or until sellout. 6851 Virginia Pkwy, McKinney, www. chestnutsquare.org

Frisco RoughRiders Baseball 7:05pm. RoughRiders take on the San Antonio Missions. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972731-9200

fri 22 Elementary Book Group at Barnes and Noble, Creekwalk Village Fri-3:30pm-4:30pm Join our group of chapter book readers in grades 2-8 as they discuss new, popular books that appeal to the group. Barnes and Noble, Creekwalk Village, 801 West 15th St., Plano, 972.422-3372 www.barnesandnoble.com

Frisco RoughRiders Baseball 7:05pm. RoughRiders take on the San Antonio Missions. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco

FC Dallas Soccer 8pm. FC Dallas takes on Real Salt Lake. Toyota Stadium, 9200 World Cup Way, Frisco, 469-3650000 www.fcdallas.com

sat 23 Gala of Royal Horses 7:30pm. Watch equestrian master Rene Gasser and professionally trained horses – including Andalusian, Friesian, Lipizzaner and Arabian breeds-and ﬂamenco dancers perform stunning maneuvers in this show celebrating the European tradition of royal horses. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, 800-745-3000 www.americanairlinescenter.com

TKO Anti Bullying Workshop 10am-12pm. Become an anti-bullying ambassador for your neighborhood or school! This family program will provide resources to identify and help prevent bullying in our community. We use physical ﬁtness, role playing and testimonials from local community leaders to take action! Parent must register for the class. Register class #

159178. For ages 6 through adult. Tom Muehlenbeck Center, 5801 W. Parker Road, Plano, 972-769-4404

Saturday Night THRIVE 6-8pm. Newton’s Lab Science Show – FREE Family Connection Night Back by popular demand…. FUN night of Science Fun! Bring your own dinner or purchase snacks/drinks from the $1 cafe. Come on out for a night of good ol’ fashioned community FUN! Every 4th Saturday night from 6-8pm, enjoy Saturday Night THRIVE Come in for a FUN evening plus connect as a family over the value of the month. Go home with an At-Home Family Values Tool, too! This Side Up! Family Center provides affordable fun, cultivates strong relationships, encourages diverse community, equips families and champions family values. This Side Up! Family Center, 1100 Capital Ave, Plano, www.thissideupfamily.org

sun 24 Four Seasons Markets at The Village Shopping Center 11am-3pm. Four Seasons Markets replicates a European-style market, where you can

not only meet local farmers, artisanal food producers and craftsmen, but sample and purchase their products in a colorful, family-friendly venue. The market will be located at the corner of Stacy Road and Prairie Road (between Macy’s and JCPenney) and will be open weekends through October 26, 2014 from 10am-3pm on Saturday and 11am-3pm on Sunday. Look for vendors offering local produce, local honey, grass fed beef, jams and jellies, home canned fruits and veggies, local cheese, home baked breads, and pastries, fresh nuts, salsas and sauces, tamales and Texas olive oils-as well as crafters and other vendors. Visit www. thevillageshopping.com for a complete vendor list weekly. The Village at Fairview, 329 Town Place, Fairview, www. thevillageshopping.com

mon 25 4th Monday Book Club at the Smith Public Library 6:30-7:30pm. 4th Monday Book Club at the Smith Public Library. Adults only book club. Join us on Goodreads for the 4th Monday Book Club. Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris. Our ﬁrst choice for

Your Community Story Times Plano - Davis Branch 7501-B Independence Pkwy., 972-208-8000 Mon - Toddler Time 10 & 11am, ages 18-36 mo., Tues - Babes in Arms 10am, ages 0-9 mo.; Preschool Storytime 11am, ages 3-5, Wed - Preschool Storytime 10am, ages 3-5; Family Storytime 7pm, all ages, Thur - Toddler Time 10 & 11am, ages 18-36 mo., Fri - Rhyme Time 10 & 11am, ages 0-24 mo., Sat - Family Storytime 11am, all ages

Plano - Haggard Branch 2501 Coit Rd., 972-769-4250 Mon - Family Storytime 7pm, all ages, Tue - Family Storytime 10:30am, all ages; Toddler Time 10 & 10:45am, ages 18-36 mo., Wed - Family Storytime 10:30am, all ages; Toddler Time 10 & 10:45am, ages 18-36 mo., Thur - Family Storytime 10:30am, all ages; Rhyme Time 10:15am, ages 0-23mo.

Plano - Harrington Branch 1501 18th St., 972-941-7175 Mon - Family Storytime 10:30am, all ages, Tue - Family Storytime 7pm, all ages, Wed - Family Storytime 10:30am, all ages, Thur - Rhyme Time 10:15am, ages 0-23mo

Plano - Parr Branch 6200 Windhaven Pkwy., 972-769-4300 Mon - Family Storytime 10:30am, all ages, Tue - Family Storytime 7pm, all ages, Wed - Family Storytime 10:30am, all ages Thur - Rhyme Time 10:15am, ages 0-23mo

Plano - Schimelpfenig Branch 5024 Custer Rd., 972-769-4200 Mon - Family Storytime 10:30am, all ages, Wed - Rhyme Time 10:15am, ages 0-23mo; Family Storytime 2:15pm, all ages, Thur - Rhyme Time 10:15am, ages 0-23mo

Allen Public Library 300 N. Allen Dr., 214-509-4900 Mon - Fun Ones Story Time 10:15 & 11:15am, ages 12-23 mo.,

Tue - Baby & Me 10:15am, pre-walkers; Fun Ones Story Time 6:30pm, ages 12-23 mo; Family Story Time 11:15am ages 2-6 w/ family, Wed - Together Time 10:15am, ages 2-3; All By Myself 11:15am, ages 4-5, Thur - Together Time 10:15 & 11:15am, ages 2-3; Family Story Time 11:15am & 7pm, ages 2-6 w/family

Frisco Public Library 6101 Frisco Square Blvd., 972-292-KNOW Tue - Toddler Story Time 10:15 (ages 18mo.-23mo.) & 10:45am (ages 2-3yrs); Preschoolers Story Time 11:30am, ages 3-5 yrs Wed - Babies and Books 10, 10:30, 11 & 11:30am, ages 0-17 mo.; Bedtime Stories 7pm, all ages, Thur - Toddler Story Time 10:15 (ages 18mo.-23mo.) & 10:45am (ages 2-3yrs); Preschoolers Story Time 11:30am, ages 3-5 yrs, Fri - Toddler Story Time 10:15 (ages 18mo.-23mo.) & 10:45am (ages 2-3yrs); Preschoolers Story Time 11:30am, ages 3-5 yrs Sat - Family Story Time 10:30am, all ages

McKinney - Roy and Hellen Hall Branch 101 E. Hunt St., 972-547-7323 Mon - Fun with Baby 10:15am, ages 6-17mo & caregiver; Hold My Hand 10:15am, ages 18mo-3yrs & caregiver; On My Own 11am, ages 3-5, Wed - Family Story Time 6:30pm, all ages & caregivers *Tickets will be handed out for all preschool programs beginning at 10am

McKinney - John and Judy Gay Branch 6861 W. Eldorado Pkwy, 972-547-7323 Wed - Fun with Baby 10:15am, ages 6-17mo & caregiver; Hold My Hand 10:15am, ages 18mo-3yrs & caregiver; On My Own 11am, ages 3-5

Richardson Public Library 900 Civic Center Dr., 972-744-4350 Mon - Family Story Time 6:45pm, ages 3-, Tue - “It’s Elementary!” Storytime 4:15-4:45pm, ages K - 4th grade

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the know it all the ONLINE ONLY session of 4th Monday Book Club! Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Bldg. 300, Wylie, www.wylietexas.gov

tue 26 RNNC Daytime Book Club at Barnes and Noble, Creekwalk Village 1-2pm Join our fun group of Richardson ladies who read interesting works of new and classic ﬁction the fourth Tuesday of every month. Barnes and Noble, 801 West 15th St., Plano, www.barnesandnoble.com

Wagging Tales at Smith Public Library 3:30-4:15pm. Doggies need books too! Come perfect your reading aloud skills by reading to Abby. Tickets are free and required. They are handed out at the children’s desk beginning at 2pm the day of the program. Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Wylie, 972-516-6250

fri 29 LEGO KidsFest 4-7:30pm. LEGO KidsFest brings all of the creative hands-on, minds-on fun of LEGO building and experiences together in one activity- and entertainment-packed family event for children of all ages and builders of all skills and interests. Dallas Convention Center, 650 S. Grifﬁn St, Dallas, www.legokidsfest.com. See ad in this issue. Dallas DanceFest 8pm. Dance Council of North Texas (DCNT) is excited to announce the companies and artists selected to perform at the inaugural Dallas DanceFest (DDF) which runs August 29-31, 2014. The three-day event promises to deliver excellence, vibrancy, vitality, and diversity in dance. DDF features performances by Dallas luminaries including Texas Ballet Theater, Bruce Wood Dance Project, Dallas Black Dance Theatre in addition to established, emerging, and academic dance companies and artists. Dallas City Performance Hall, 2520 Flora Street, Dallas, 214-2192290 www.dallasdancefest.org

sat 30 Classics on the Square in McKinney 7:30-10:30am. McKinney Main Street proudly welcomes local classic car and truck enthusiast group, the Morning Maniacs, to Historic Downtown McKinney. The Morning Maniacs will host a show and shine the last Saturday of each month from 7:30-10:30 a.m. and invite all classic car and truck enthusiasts to attend. Please make a point to come and check out some amazing cars and trucks, enjoy some breakfast and maybe a little shopping too. Historic Downtown McKinney, 111 N. Tennessee St., McKinney, www.mckinneytexas.org

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LEGO KidsFest Session 1: 9am-1:30pm; Session II: 3-7:30pm. LEGO KidsFest brings all of the creative hands-on, minds-on fun of LEGO building and experiences together in one activity- and entertainment-packed family event for children of all ages and builders of all skills and interests. (Note: Each session offers the same exhibits and activities). Dallas Convention Center, 650 S. Grifﬁn St, Dallas, www.legokidsfest.com. See ad in this issue TKO Anti Bullying Workshop 10am-12pm. Become an anti-bullying ambassador for your neighborhood or school! This family program will provide resources to identify and help prevent bullying in our community. We use physical ﬁtness, role playing and testimonials from local community leaders to take action! Parent must register for the class. Register class #159179. For ages 6 through adult Oak Point Recreation Center, 6000 Jupiter Road, Plano, 972-941-7540

Frisco RoughRiders Baseball 7:05pm. RoughRiders take on the Midland RockHounds. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200

sun 31 LEGO KidsFest Session 1: 9am-1:30pm; Session II: 3-7:30pm. LEGO KidsFest brings all of the creative hands-on, minds-on fun of LEGO building and experiences together in one activityand entertainment-packed family event for children of all ages and builders of all skills and interests. (Note: Each session offers the same exhibits and activities). Dallas Convention Center, 650 S. Grifﬁn St, Dallas, www.legokidsfest.com. See ad in this issue.

Frisco RoughRiders Baseball 6:05pm. RoughRiders take on the Midland RockHounds. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200

Upcoming in Sept Growing Kids Gardening Series Kids love gardening too! Join us for a wonderful series designed especially for children. They will experience activities such as plant and learn, projects from the natural world, and fun experiments. See ad in this issue.

September 7 Planning a Quinceanera? 12-5pm. Come out to the Quince Girl Expo where you’ll ﬁnd everything you need for an amazing event! Dallas Market Hall. www.quincegirlexpos.com

Please note: Although we strive to bring you the most current information available regarding event dates & times, conﬁrming with the event venue before going is always a good idea. SP

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Supercharged Salad! What you’ll n

eed:

the F

SALAD INGR EDIENTS: - 6 cups fresh baby spinach - 1 pint straw berries, hulle d and sliced - 1 avocado, di ced (or 2 avoc ados!) - 4 ounces cr umbled gorg onzola or blue - 1/4 cup slice cheese d almonds, to asted - Half a smal l red onion, th inly sliced FOR DRESSI NG, whisk to gether: - 1/2 cup avoc ado oil (or ol ive oil) - 2 Tbsp. hone y - 1 Tbsp. popp y seeds - 3 Tablespoon s apple cide err vineg ga arr - Pinch of of grround nd dr d y mu ussta tard r (opt ptio ion io na al) al) - Sa Salltt and pe epp p er er

U pagN e As long as there are tests, there will be prayer in schools! — Author Unknown

What you’ll do: Toss salad with whisked dressing. Serve immediately. Enjoy your superfoods!

GOTTA LOVE ‘EM

LOL with James Estes!

WHY DO MAGICIANS DO SO WELL IN SCHOOL? They’re good at trick questions WHY WAS THE TEACHER WEARING SUNGLASSES TO SCHOOL? She had bright students WHO IS THE KING OF ALL SCHOOL SUPPLIES? The ruler

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A father picked up his daughter from camp and excitedly asked her “How was your stay at camp?” She replied, “Well it would have been better if you had given me money to spend in the camp store.” Her father replied, “I put money in your camp trunk”. He continued, “Let me ask you; did you brush your teeth this week?” She replied, “Yes, I brushed my teeth!” Her dad said, “Well, I put your money in your toothbrush case hoping you would ﬁnd it when you brushed your teeth!!” Hmmm. SENT TO US FROM ANNIE KATE

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Potluck Survivor

’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again…neighborhood potlucks are dangerous. I was scoping out the food on the potluck table during our annual summer block party in our neighbor’s backyard last weekend when my wife and teenagers walked over to me from the volleyball net. “Hungry, dad?” my son asked. “A little,” I said. “Why?” “Because you’re watching the food like a weirdo or something.” I blinked. “I’m trying to decode who brought what.” I turned to my wife. “The potato salad over there looks store bought, right?” My daughter raised her eyebrows. “And why are you doing this?” “So I know where the food came from,” I said mater of fact, and then pointed out a plate of brownies to my wife. “Honey, don’t the Miller’s have this plate pattern?” My daughter cleared her throat and repeated herself. “Uh, hello, why are you doing this?” I raised my hands in the air. “Call me cautious, but do we reallllllllllly know where this food came from…I mean, really? All of this was prepared behind closed doors, right? A lot can happen in a person’s kitchen when no one is looking. We have no idea who might have sneezed into their casserole dish or tested the batter with their ﬁngers. It’s always better to just eat those things that you can trust.” My son pointed to the macaroni salad. “Can you trust this?” “Mayonnaise?” I scoffed. “I think not.” “But macaroni salad is good,” he argued. “Sure,” I said. “And so is sleeping through the night without painful gas pains.”

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My wife rolled her eyes. “We’re going back to the volleyball game. If people ask what you are doing over here, I’m telling them you have heat stroke.” “Fine,” I said as they walked away. “But, why do people insist on getting together without the health department’s seal of approval? Huh?”” Okay, so maybe I have this thing about what I put in my mouth. Some people might call it a phobia – I prefer to think of it as a plan to keep living. When we returned home that night, however, I was famished. The only thing I ate at the potluck was an individually wrapped Twinkie and what we brought. As I assembled my dinner in the kitchen, my wife asked the obvious. “How do you know that our neighbors weren’t thinking the same thing about us, and they were concerned with what we brought?” I laughed. “We brought a bag of chips and store bought onion dip,” I answered. “And I made sure to have witnesses when I broke the seal.” My wife got that exasperated look. “It’s a summer picnic, Ken,” she exclaimed. “This is what people do. They go to barbecues and have potlucks. It’s called having fun.” “Great,” I exclaimed. “But while I am enjoying my day at work tomorrow – pain free – there’s a good chance, ‘Miss I’ll Try Everything at the Potluck,’ that your conversation with friends will involve the words ambrosia, the runs and dropping ﬁve pounds.” My wife felt my forehead. “Maybe you really do have heat stroke, Ken.” Arrive alive – that’s what I always say. SP