Suburban Parent: Dallas

MAY 2016 | FREE suburbanparent.com

PARK CITIES | PRESTON HOLLOW | LAKEWOOD | AND MORE

5 FOSTER CARE MISCONCEPTIONS EXPLAINED WOMEN'S HEALTH ISSUE

THE MOTHER’S DAY GIFT A STORY

IT’S ALL HAPPENING THIS SUMMER

SEE OUR CAMP DIRECTORY INSIDE

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Mary Ellen Caldwell, RD, LD, CLT editor@suburbanparent.com

MARY SHARES

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

APRIL SHOWERS BRING M AY F LO W E R S !

Renée Higgins renee@suburbanparent.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alyssa Chirco Lauren Cormier Ken Swarner

CALENDAR EDITOR Lara Haynes

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Courtney Blissett www.bliss-photography.com

AD DESIGNERS

I

n essence this means that a period of discomfort can provide the basis for a period of joy. As mothers, we know how a bit of discomfort can yield great joy. The discomfort of birthing a baby, the

angst of trying to conceive, or waiting for an adopted child. But when we hold our baby all that discomfort is forgotten and we are filled with joy. Then, as mothers, we have the task to manage a home, take care of babies and kids, jobs to maintain, and loads of other tasks we do

Blake Boring Fran Sherman So Hee Lee Won

daily. But we know in our hearts that all this is accomplished by the

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

There are so many topics about women’s health. As I write this I am

Denise Miller Julie Lesser Williams

AD COORDINATOR/ DISTRIBUTION Francie Morin francie@suburbanparent.com

ACCOUNTING Carrie Vincent carrie@suburbanparent.com

grace of God. What we don’t always do is make time to take care of ourselves. literally nodding my head in agreement with my own thoughts! So many times I have had this discussion with other moms. And we all know it’s impossible to keep everyone healthy if we are not taking care of ourselves, mentally and physically.

“A WOMAN’S HEART SHOULD BE SO HIDDEN IN GOD THAT A MAN HAS TO SEEK HIM JUST TO FIND HER.”

It’s important to know that our spiritual nature, though unseen, is as

— MAX LUCADO

real as our physical nature. Nurturing our soul is as important as eating, drinking and exercising are to our physical body. And our soul is nurtured through a relationship with our Creator. Reading the Bible is the best way to fill up your mind and heart with God and His Ways. Prayer can also be continuous throughout the day as a conversation

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with God. Thank him for the morning sunrise, or for your child’s amazing laughter.

Just thank him for everything! Hmmm, was it Gods design that April showers bring May flowers just in time for Mother’s Day? This Mother’s Day I’ll be thanking God for all the gifts he has given me. The most important being my husband and my children. And I may even take a power walk for a half hour or so, and then return home to admire my flowers!

What about you? I’d love to know.

EDITORIAL editor@suburbanparent.com

PHONE/MAIL 972.887.7779 8344 Sterling Street Irving, Texas 75063

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COVER MODEL Laila, 10 years 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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Laila enjoys cheering, tumbling, running, playing volleyball, riding bikes and a clean room. She also loves to laugh and play jokes – especially on her dad! She has one sister, Madi (13) and one brother, Hudson (8). When she grows up, she wants to be an author of children’s mystery books.

MAY 2016 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!

YOU SHOULD KNOW Don’t Vent Anger, frustration, stress. At work, at home, in school. It happens. But before you go vent to a friend, or write that hateful email, consider this. Recent research shows that instead of making us feel better, venting actually make us feel worse because it perpetuates the problem, reinforcing the negative feelings. Better strategies for dealing with setbacks involve acceptance, humor and positive reframing, meaning looking for something good in the otherwise stressful event. Distance, delaying reactions and distractions help too.

Day camps aren’t just places to send our kids to keep them occupied over the summer. They’re a great way to try out an activity before signing up for a year-long program. Dance camps, art camps, sports camps; there are tons of fun things to try over the summer - with minimal commitment. Plus, many offer extended care if you need it. And while sleep away camps are super fun for sure, there’s something to be said for sleeping in your own bed after a long day of “camping.”

KNOW THAT OTHER’S CARE M.E.N.D. (Mommies Enduring Neonatal Death) is a Christian

THE SWEEPING SQUARE

non-profit organization that reaches out to families who have lost a baby to miscar-

When kids are little, they actually like to help with chores, like sweeping. However, grown up tools, like dustpans, can be difficult to maneuver. To make it easier for them (and you), tape off a sweeping square. Have them sweep the dirt in the square, and then you can use the dust pan to sweep up what’s in the square. Kitchen gets a little cleaner; kids have a little fun. Why not?

riage, stillbirth, or early infant death. M.E.N.D. was founded

by Rebekah Mitchell, of Irving, TX, one year following the death of her baby boy, Jonathan. While grieving the death

SAY “GOOD NIGHT” AND MEAN IT!

It’s time to change our attitudes about sleep.

Sleep is just as important to our health as diet and exercise. So why, as moms, do we deprive ourselves of it? If the kids are keeping you up, that’s one thing. But, if you’re staying up late after putting them to bed to do chores, that’s another and entirely under your control.

Insufficient sleep is linked to poor work performance, weight gain, many health problems and dangerous behavior (we see you yawning in the carpool line). Not to mention, if you’re constantly tired, your family will feel the effects too. So do everyone a favor. Get more sleep!

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of her baby, she desperately needed to connect with other moms who had experienced a similar loss. What began as a small group of grieving moms in the DFW metroplex, has grown into a national organization. M.E.N.D. is based in Irving, and has 4 additional chapters in Texas. Please visit the website at www.mend.org for more information.

QUESTIONS { + PROFESSIONAL ANSWERS }

KAILA, NEW MOM Q. Does a young woman (mom) need to get yearly mammograms?

A. Thank you for asking Kaila! Early detection of breast cancer with screening mammography means that treatment can be started earlier in the course of the disease, possibly before it has spread. According to www.nationalbreastcancer.org, women 40 and older should have mammograms every 1 or 2 years. Women who are younger than 40 and have risk factors for breast cancer should ask their healthcare professional whether mammograms are advisable and how often to have them. And always do your Self-Breast Checks at home.

GOOD NEWS!

There’s an app for that at Early Detection Plan: Breast Cancer.

PARKER, MOM OF 2 Q. My child was recently diagnosed with FPIES (Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome). I have never heard about this and other moms may want to know.

MARIA, MOM OF TWINS Q. I would like to plan a Baby Shower for my sister who is about to bring home an adopted baby. Not sure about the theme.

A. Thank you Parker! This disorder (FPIES) is

the prospective parents what they want. Some will want the baby shower prior to the birth, while others will prefer to have the shower after the placement when they no longer have to worry about the adoption falling through. Focus on a general baby theme, a favorite storybook character or tie it to the nursery design. A fun idea for a child being adopted abroad is to have guests sign a globe in lieu of guest book!

And be sure to spoil the New Mom! Treat the mom with the same amount of attention, fuss and excitement as you would with any other baby shower. So let her completely enjoy this rite of passage just as any other woman gets to.

characterized by an allergic reaction to food that affects the gastrointestinal system. The term enterocolitis indicates inflammation of the small and large intestines. Children with FPIES experience profuse vomiting and diarrhea that usually develops approximately 2-6 hours after eating/drinking the offending food. Other symptoms include pallor, lethargy, and abdominal swelling (distension). The most common triggers for an episode are milk, soy, and rice, but the disorder has been associated with a wide range of food proteins. Many children develop a tolerance to the offending foods by the age of three, however, in some cases, the disorder persists. Always best to keep a food diary in those early years!

A. Before planning an adoption baby shower, ask

NICOLE WITT, Executive Director of The Adoption Consultancy

MARY ELLEN, RDN, Your Favorite Dietitian

WE ASKED THE SPECIALIST DR. MUNIRA DUDHBHAI, MD, FACOG Lewisville Women's Care

Q. My sister has been told she has multiple organ prolapse (POP). Is this hereditary? I would like to avoid this type of discomfort!

A. Multiple Organ Prolapse (POP) is most commonly caused by the patient's age which can lead to increased weakness of the pelvis musculature after multiple vaginal deliveries. This usually happens to females in their 50s but can occur at an earlier age. The pre-disposing factors for it to occur at an earlier age would be due to difficult traumatic deliveries. There is a very rare genetic connective tissue disorder that can make this condition hereditary called Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.

A preventative strategy would be to do Kegel's Pelvic Floor Muscle exercises and to treat all medical conditions that causes increased straining like constipation or a chronic cough that lasts for an extended period of time.

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WE LOVE THIS { YOU WILL TOO }

SUMMER TIP!

1 Summer’s just around the corner and if there’s one thing you should know, it’s this: put the sunscreen on at home. Before heading to the pool or the park, slather those kiddos in sunscreen in the house. It gives the skin time to absorb the lotion and lets the kids get right to the fun when they get to their destination. Don’t be that mom arguing with your kids on the side of the pool. You’ll lose and they’ll get sunburned.

2 POSTCARDS FROM PHONE No stamps and no post office required!

You’ll appreciate the app Touchnote. This app allows you to transform any photo from your smartphone into a personalized postcard. Adjust the photo, add a short message and address, then for about $2.99, including postage within the U.S., Touchnote will print and send the card for you. No more searching for a post office or waiting until you arrive home to send your cards. Touchnote makes sending unique vacation messages a snap. Visit www.touchnote.com

Win This!

MAKE-UP BAG THAT’S “COOL”

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Enter to win today @

suburbanparent.com/contact/contact_suburban_parent

The Cool-it Caddy, by Vinci Designs, developed a classic personal cooler to keep your lip-lusters, sunscreen, snacks, medications and make-up chilled even in the hottest of places. Just pop the Cool-it-Caddy in the freezer until frozen. Nobody wants to freshen up with melted lipstick! We found it at www.thegrommet.com $19.95 and up

GREAT IDEA

4 Next time you clean out the fridge, add a lazy Susan on the shelf before putting things back. It’ll help you reach things in the back and prevent future spills. There’s a jar of pickles in there somewhere!

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BY L AU R E N C O R M I E R

Five Common Misconceptions About

FOSTER CARE M

ay is National Foster Care Month. If you’re not familiar with how foster care works or what is required, there’s a good chance that you’ve heard some things that simply aren’t true. In honor of the selfless families who give of their time, resources, and hearts to provide care for children in need, I’d like to address five common misconceptions about foster care.

1

FOSTER PARENTS DO IT FOR THE MONEY. We always

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IT COSTS A LOT OF MONEY TO ADOPT A FOSTER CHILD. If you’re hoping to adopt, but you don’t have the

hear the stories about a rotten apple or two who ruin it for the bunch, but unless foster parents are being grossly negligent, this one is just plain laughable. Yes, foster families get paid, but they are paid in order to cover the costs of caring for the child. That money covers food, clothing, and supplies, including diapers, wipes, toys, and all the other things that go along with having a child in your home. Most foster children do not show up at someone’s house with a moving truck.

Often times the clothes on their back are the only possessions they have. Anyone who has a child of their own knows how expensive it is. More often than not, a foster family will spend much more than the state pays in order to provide for the child in their care.

financial ability to do it privately, foster care is an excellent avenue to pursue. Of course, you must prepare for the very real possibility that a child you foster will not stay with you, but if it comes to that point, foster families are usually the first ones asked if they’d like to adopt.

Once you make that choice, it costs very little. For one family I know, the adoption only cost a few hundred dollars and the state even reimbursed them for some of their attorney’s fees.

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3

THE PROCESS IS STRENUOUS AND INVASIVE. As one

4

FOSTER PARENTS HAVE NO SAY IN WHO THEY FOSTER. If you’ve considered doing foster care, but have worried

5

“I COULD NEVER DO FOSTER CARE. I’D LOVE THEM TOO MUCH TO GIVE THEM UP.” I’m guilty of having said

foster parent put it, “DHHS isn’t trying to find fault with you, your house, or your parenting. They need you more than you need them, and they don’t want to drive foster parents away.” The training and home study are a free and fairly easy process, and in normal situations, a social worker won’t be at your door every five seconds to check up on you.

that every time the phone rings you’ll have to say ‘yes’, rest assured that isn’t the case. If the timing isn’t right, you can always decline without hurting your chances of getting a placement later.

You can also tell DHHS your preferences in terms of the age of the children you foster. This isn’t being picky; often your work situation, as well as, the makeup of your family (ages and genders of biological or adopted children) need to be considered when bringing another child into your home.

those words and I bet many of you are too. Certainly there are families who are unable or unwilling to make that commitment for any number of reasons, and it’s not a decision to make lightly. However, after watching my friends do foster care, I have come to realize that it is not as scary or un-doable as I imagined it to be.

Yes, it is difficult when the time comes for a child to leave a foster family’s care. Foster families don’t have a special switch they can flip on and off to stop them from feeling. Watching my friends who do foster care, I can tell you with absolute certainty that they love these children as their own and it breaks their hearts when a child in their care has to leave. Here’s the thing though: They don’t do it for themselves. They do it for the children who need them. Foster care requires a selfless love that could very well break your heart, but when you think of what you’re providing for that child, it is more than worth it.

If you’ve ever considered doing foster care, I strongly encourage you to take the next step in the process. There is a huge need for foster families and you might be exactly who a child needs. Contact your state’s Department of Health and Human Services for more information. SP Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!

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BY A LYS SA C H I R C O

GIFT A

few years ago for Mother’s Day, my daughter gave me a handmade clay bowl. It was a school art project, as Mother’s Day gifts so often are, the kind that students make every spring for the mothers who love and care for them each day.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t exactly sure what to do with a piece of misshapen pottery painted in flamboyant shades of pink, purple and what I can only suspect is chartreuse. The bowl now sits in my closet, collecting dust and holding a random collection of earrings and necklaces that I never seem to wear.

I loved the gift, of course, in the way that all mothers love the sloppy, handmade creations we are so blessed to receive from our kids. But it was the box my Mother’s Day bowl arrived in which turned out to be the keepsake I’ll treasure forever.

It’s a plain, brown, cardboard box, nothing special, but my daughter decorated it with hearts, and wrote my name on it and shared a heartfelt message – complete with second grade spelling – just for me. It says: “Somtimes you are meen. But I still love you.”

Not exactly a Hallmark card, I know.

My initial reaction to this backhanded declaration of affection was to stifle a laugh, but I have to admit that I cringed inwardly a bit too. Kids have a knack for hitting us where it hurts, and reminding us at the very moments we when we are trying to celebrate our successes (hello, Mother’s Day?) that we have plenty of failures mixed in too.

My daughter is right. Sometimes, I am mean.

Sometimes I yell, and sometimes I lose my temper.

Sometimes, I make her clean her bedroom or, when I’m feeling particularly evil, the bathroom toilets. I may be the mom, but even mothers are only human.

I can think of plenty of gifts that I would like to receive for Mother’s Day this year. For instance, I wouldn’t turn down an all-inclusive resort vacation in the Baha-

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mas. In lieu of that, I would certainly accept a massage, a champagne brunch or the opportunity to occasionally hear myself think. A few hours alone to catch up on the final season of Mad Men would also suffice.

But in the end (and those of you desperately shopping for Mother’s Day gifts take note), moms don’t really care about the stuff. We don’t need an expensive meal or a fancy bouquet of flowers or a sentimental, store bought greeting card that somehow doesn’t quite ring true.

We do, however, want to know that we are genuinely appreciated, and that our sacrifices and sleepless nights haven’t gone entirely unnoticed. Most of us struggle with endless guilt, constantly wondering if we are doing enough for our children and agonizing over the many imperfections we see in ourselves.

We are doing our best. And we just want confirmation that our best is good enough.

This is why, when it comes to Mother’s Day gifts, moms appreciate bear hugs and sloppy kisses and time spent together more than anything else you could give us. It’s why we treasure the handmade cards and not-so-artistic art projects that are always made with such loving care. It’s why we keep them, even when we have no idea what to do with them.

It’s why I have chosen to keep my brown cardboard box forever.

We don’t get too many people in our lives who still love us even when they have seen us at our worst. If we are lucky, our children are some of those people. While my daughter’s Mother’s Day message may have been unconventional, in its own unique way, it was also a declaration of her unconditional love. Even when I’m “meen,” she still kind of likes me.

And having a daughter who loves and appreciates me despite my flaws? That’s a Mother’s Day gift that is absolutely priceless. SP

the best

summer

2016

camps

CAMP SUMMIT........................................................................................15 972-484-8900 • www.campsummittx.org CHARIS HILLS..........................................................................................19 888-681-2173 • www.charishills.org DALLAS ZOO............................................................................................18 www.dallaszoo.com/education SAFESPLASH SWIM SCHOOL..........................................................17 844-KID-SWIM • www.safesplash.com TEXAS PREMIER YOUTH SPORTS..................................................17 469-834-8450 • www.texaspremieryouthsports.com UTD CHESS CAMP................................................................................18 972-883-4899 • www.utdallas.edu/chess See complete 2016 Camp Directory online at suburbanparent.com

214-361-KIDS (5437)

8305 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 225, Dallas, Texas 75231

www.starKIDSdentist.com

Serving the needs of learning different students for 28 years.

Barrie Barber Choate DDS, MSD, PA

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KNOW IT ALL { YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR }

MAY 2016

= ADVERTISER

SUN 1

MON 2

SCARBOROUGH RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL

FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. CORPUS CHRISTI

Runs through May 30. Interactive fun for everyone – 16th Century Style. Theme weekends and special events throughout the season. Saturdays, Sundays & Memorial Day. Get tickets at Tom Thumb and Albertsons. Get details at SRFestival.com.

Scarborough Renaissance Festival Grounds, 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie, SRFestival.com.

7:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200, ridersbaseball.com.

WICKED Runs through May 22. Visit website for show times/dates and to purchase tickets.

Content Warning: Recommended for ages 8 and up Run Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes with one 15-minute intermission Music Hall at Fair Park, 909 1st Avenue, Dallas, 214-6917200, dallassummermusicals.org.

THE BFG (BIG FRIENDLY GIANT) Runs through May 22. Recommended for ages 7 and up. Visit website for show times and to purchase tickets. Dallas Children’s Theater, 5938 Skillman St. Dallas, dct.org.

DENTON ARTS & JAZZ FESTIVAL May 1st, 11am-9pm. Great music, good food, beautiful art and many activities are planned for the whole family in Denton, where FUN IS THE THING and JAZZ IS KING! The Denton Quakertown Park, on 32 acres in the heart of downtown, provides the perfect setting for the 2 ½ day event that is FREE to the public. Come and visit the music capital of North Texas. Join in the pride and celebration of our music and arts tradition, all showcased for a weekend of enjoyment for the whole family. Quakertown Park, 321 East McKinney St., Denton, 940-565-0931, www.dentonjazzfest.com.

TEXAS RANGERS VS. LOS ANGELES ANGELS 2:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, www.texas.rangers.mlb.com.

FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. CORPUS CHRISTI 4:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200, ridersbaseball.com.

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THU 5 THE AWAKENED FAMILY: SUPERCHARGING THE PARENT/ CHILD RELATIONSHIP 7-9pm. You are Invited to meet and hear Dr. Shefali Tsabary, Ph.D. Clinical Psychologist and Author of The Conscious Parent. You may have seen her on Oprah or viewed her on a TedX. Don’t miss this opportunity!

Reserve your spot today. Doors open at 6:30. This activity will offer 2 CEU’s for Licensed Professionals. The purpose of this event is to expand the participant’s knowledge of the practice of conscious parenting and the impact on parent-child relationships. OMNI HOTEL-Park WestDallas, 1590 LBJ Frwy, Dallas.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, JR. 9pm You are invited to a family friendly musical for all ages--BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, JR. A joint production of The Firehouse Theatre and Amy’s Studio of Performing Arts.

Purchase tickets online at www.thefirehousetheatre.com, via phone at 972-6203747 or in person at the box office one hour before curtain. Performances: Thursday, May 5th at 7PM Friday, May 6th at 7PM Saturday, May 7th at 2PM and 5PM Sunday May 8th at 2PM and 5PM Tickets only $8.00!!!!

Please support our children in their love of the ARTS! Firehouse Theatre, 2535 Valley View Lane, Farmers Branch,972-620-3747, thefirehousetheatre.com.

FRI 6 FITNESS FRIDAYS AT THE SHOPS AT PARK LANE 12-1pm. As the weather warms up, feel the burn with Fitness Fridays, FREE outdoor cardio barre classes every Friday in May at noon from Studio 6, in The Park at The Shops at Park Lane. The 60-minute

high-intensity, low impact signature workout combines elements from barre, yoga and Pilates to torch calories, tone muscles, and strengthen your core. All skills sets welcome.

Bands, balls and mats will be provided.

Come barefoot or wear sneakers. Classes are weather permitting. The Shops at Park Lane, 8080 Park Lane, Dallas,214-365-0222, www.shopsatparklane.com.

SAT 7 FARMERS BRANCH MARKET GRAND OPENING! 8am-12pm. Celebrate the Grand Opening of the Farmers Branch Market! All vendors will be out selling their products including fresh produce, specialty foods and arts & crafts. There will also celebrate with a mimosa bar, Dough Boy Donuts Food Truck, a free gift to everyone who comes out, live entertainment, kids’ activities and more! The new Farmers Branch Market is an outdoors farmer’s market featuring fresh produce, specialty foods & arts and crafts. It will be open every Saturday from 8am-12pm, May 7-Oct. 29, 2016.

Farmers Branch Market, 12700 Denton Drive, Farmers Branch,972-919-2602, farmersbranchmarket.com .

ARLINGTON EAST MAIN ST. ART AND MUSIC FESTIVAL 12-8pm Festival goers will have to opportunity to visit over 30, local and emerging artists and vendors. The experience will include a variety of media and you will see live painting, sculpting, and potting. Art lovers will find, that on any budget, this is the perfect opportunity to begin collecting or adding to an established gallery. A full day lineup of local musicians will be performing, including the award winning Sam Houston Mariachi Band, 3pm, on the main stage and street side, while you stroll, eat, drink, create, play and shop.

For the foodie and the craft beer lover, the festival will include brisket tacos and the full menu from Mavericks Bar and Grill, 16 types of craft beers (brewed on premise) from Division Brewing. While you are on the block, guests will be able to check out the Chess Pop Up Park (provided by North Arlington, Chess Club) Face Painting, Body Painting,

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Pop Up Dog Park and more! Arlington Animal Services will be on hand with their mobile adoption unit. Please help us place as many pups as possible. Free and open to the public. 506 E. Main Street, Arlington.

KRAFTY KIDS 2-4pm. Come join us for a fun craft in the Children’s Area! Fun for the whole family!

Dallas West Branch Library, 2332 Singleton Blvd, Dallas, 214-670-6445.

MESQUITE COMMUNITY BAND CONCERT 4pm. Come out and enjoy a free concert by the Mesquite Community Band. Mesquite Arts Center, 1527 N. Galloway, Mesquite, 972-216-8125.

FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. MIDLAND 7:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200, ridersbaseball.com.

SUN 8 FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. MIDLAND 4:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200, ridersbaseball.com.

MON 9 FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. MIDLAND 7:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200, ridersbaseball.com.

TEXAS RANGERS VS. WHITE SOX Mon-7:05pm-10pm Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, texas.rangers.mlb.com.

TUE 10 FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. MIDLAND 7:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200, ridersbaseball.com.

TEXAS RANGERS VS. WHITE SOX 7:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, texas.rangers.mlb.com.

WED 11 TEXAS RANGERS VS. WHITE SOX 1:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, texas.rangers.mlb.com.

FC DALLAS VS. PORTLAND TIMBERS 8pm. Toyota Stadium, 9200 World Cup Way, Frisco, 214-705-6700, fcdallas.com.

FRI 13 THE GREAT GATSBY, MAINSTAGE ILC Runs May 13-26. The breathtaking glamour and decadent excess of the Jazz Age comes to the stage in Simon Levy’s all-new adaptation based on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, approved by the Fitzgerald Estate. Complete Show Schedule (Three Weekends): Friday Evening Shows: May 13th, 20th and 27th at 7:30pm Saturday Evening Shows: May 14th, 21st and 28th at 7:30pm Sunday Matinees: May 15th and 22nd at 2:30pm Thursday Evening Show: May 26th at 7:30pm Irving Arts Center, Dupree Theater, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving, 972-252-2787, irvingartscenter.com.

TEXAS RANGERS VS. BLUE JAYS 7:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, texas.rangers.mlb.com.

SAT 14 NAMIWALKS DALLAS 6:30am-12pm. The largest Women’s mental health education and fundraising event in America, NAMIWalks brings together thousands of individuals and supporters to celebrate mental illness recovery, to honor those who have lost their lives to mental illness and to help raise funds, combat stigma and promote awareness. Registration begins at 6:30am, walk begins at 8am. Fair Park Bandshell, 1465 First Ave., Dallas, www.namidallas. org/namiwalks1.html.

THE MARKETPLACE 9am-2pm. Shop the Marketplace for locally grown and produced; food and goods in Heritage Square. Heritage Square, Historic Downtown Mesquite, 150 West Main Street, 469-275-9616.

URBAN ACRES MARKET 9-11am. At Urban Acres, the goal is to provide the community with the very best local and organic foods while supporting Texas farm families and artisans. So they created a “co-op style” produce system with pick-up locations all over Dallas that makes shopping easy, and trying new veggies fun! They shop for your produce; all you have to do is pick it up. Vitruvian Park, 3966 Vitruvian Way, Addison, urbanacresfarmstead.com/co-op.

FREE-LEARN TO ROW 9am-12pm. White Rock Rowing hosts their annual Free Learn to Row Day at White Rock Boathouse. Middle and High School students and adults of all ages are welcome. Meet the coaches, tour the boathouse, find out about our adaptive program, learn the basics of rowing, and get out on the water for a test drive!

Please wear athletic gear and sunscreen.

All participants will be asked to sign a waiver. Water sessions are first-come, firstserved and the last boat goes out at 11:30.

White Rock Boathouse, 2810 White Rock Road, Dallas, whiterockrowing.org.

TEXAS RANGERS VS. BLUE JAYS 7:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, texas.rangers.mlb.com.

FC DALLAS VS. SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC 8pm. Toyota Stadium, 9200 World Cup Way, Frisco, 214-705-6700, fcdallas.com.

SUN 15 TEXAS RANGERS VS. BLUE JAYS 2:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, texas.rangers.mlb.com.

CONCERT: TO THOSE WHO SERVE (HONORING NATIONAL PEACE OFFICERS DAY) 3pm. Featuring the Richardson Community Band. This concert is free and open to the public. Eisemann Center, 2351 Performance Drive, Richardson, 972-744-4650.

FRI 20 WILDFLOWER ARTS & MUSIC FESTIVAL Friday 6pm-midnight, Saturday 11ammidnight & Sunday 12:30pm-8pm.

Wildflower! Arts and Music Festival is an award-winning, multi-day eclectic arts and music festival featuring six performance stages, the Wildflower! Marketplace, the

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KNOW IT ALL Taste of Texas Food Garden, the family friendly Kidz Korner, and a whole lot more!

Gatalyn Park, 2351 Performance Drive, Richardson, wildflowerfestival.com.

GRAPEVINE: MAIN STREET FEST The 32nd Annual Main Street Fest-A Craft Brew Experience opens Friday, May 20 at 10 a.m. and admission is free until 5 p.m. Festival hours are Friday, May 20 and Saturday, May 21, 10 a.m.-11:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 22, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Guests will enjoy three full days of family-friendly festival fun with complimentary shuttles from designated parking lots. Main Street Grapevine, 1452 Hughes Road, Grapevine, grapevinetexasusa.com/ main-street-fest/information.

FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. SAN ANTONIO 7:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200, ridersbaseball.com.

SAT 21 WALK TO CURE ARTHRITIS

11am-1:30pm. Join the library to celebrate Asian American Heritage Month with a movie, fun crafts and special performances. Hampton-Illinois Branch Library, 2951 S. Hampton Road, Dallas, 214-670-7646.

FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. SAN ANTONIO 7:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200, ridersbaseball.com.

SUN 22 FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. SAN ANTONIO

NORTH TEXAS VINTAGE BIKE SWAP MEET

MON 23

TALENT SATURDAYS AT LAKEWOOD CONSERVATORY OF FINE ARTS 10am-3pm. Children can receive a complimentary talent evaluation, tinker on the musical petting zoo, join in any ongoing group class and enjoy light sips and bites. The talent evaluation is conducted by a fine arts professional and helps to identify a child’s natural inclinations, interests and long term artistic potential.

In addition, at times, Talent Saturday will feature a special guest from the fine arts/entertainment industry. Lakewood Conservatory of Fine Arts, 7328 Gaston Ave Suite 130, Dallas, Texas, 214-843-2060 www.lakewoodconservatory.com.

CHALK THE PARK 10am-5pm. Get ready to “Chalk The Park” at The Shops at Park Lane’s first annual chalk art festival. The public is invited to watch professional artists create colossal eye-popping chalk art murals, and help dallas parent

ASIAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH CELEBRATION

Join us! Dollars raised help pave the way to a lifetime of better. Registration begins at 8:30am and Walk at 10am. 100 Ballpark Way, Arlington. Sign up at WalkToCureArthritis.org/NorthTX. See ad in this issue.

9am-3pm Come on out from for the 3rd Annual North Texas Vintage Bicycle Swap Meet. Bring all of your old bikes and parts to sell including road bikes, BMX, MTB, cruiser, muscle bikes...if it’s old, bring it!

Vendor spaces $15 each and sold on a first come first serve basis. Bring your own tables and chairs. Pizza food truck will be on site for lunch. Don Johle’s Bike World, 5513 Broadway, Garland, 972-240-7678.

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transform the sidewalks surrounding The Park and nearby storefronts into an unconventional art gallery with their own chalk designs. Live music by DJ Jose G will be featured throughout the day, along with complimentary face painting for the kids from 11am to 2pm Free admission and parking. Weather permitting. The Shops at Park Lane, 8080 Park Lane, Dallas, shopsatparklane.com.

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4:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200, ridersbaseball.com.

FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. SAN ANTONIO 11:05am. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200, ridersbaseball.com.

TEXAS RANGERS VS. ANGELS 7:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, texas.rangers.mlb.com.

TUE 24 RAGTIME THE MUSICAL Runs May 24-June 5. RAGTIME returns to the road in all-new touring production Directed and Choreographed by Marcia Milgrom Dodge and Produced by the team that most recently brought you THE ADDAMS FAMILY, SPAMALOT, ROCK OF AGES and THE COLOR PURPLE. Music Hall at Fair Park, 909 First Avenue, Dallas, 214-565-1116, dallassummermusicals.org.

TEXAS RANGERS VS. ANGELS 7:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, texas.rangers.mlb.com.

WED 25 TEXAS RANGERS VS. ANGELS 1:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, texas.rangers.mlb.com.

STORY TIMES FRI 27 TEXAS RANGERS VS. PIRATES 7:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, texas.rangers.mlb.com.

SAT 28 THAI CULTURE & FOOD FESTIVAL 2016 Saturday & Sunday, 10am-6pm. Admission is free! The Buddhist Center of Dallas, 8484 Stults Road, Dallas.

TEXAS RANGERS VS. PIRATES 6:15pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, texas.rangers.mlb.com.

SUN 29 TEXAS RANGERS VS. PIRATES 2:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, texas.rangers.mlb.com.

TUE 31 GREENHILL SCHOOL SUMMER ON THE HILL BEGINS Runs May 31 through Aug. 12. Select from an extraordinary variety of camps for boys and girls, ages 3-18. For more info, visit www.greenhill.org/summer. See ad in this issue. Greenhill School, 4141 Spring Valley Road, Dallas, www.greenhill.org/summer.

FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. TULSA 7:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200, ridersbaseball.com.

SAVE THE DATE… JUN 3-5 TASTE OF DALLAS Three days of food, art, music & more.

Over 200 exhibitor booths, live music & entertainment, amazing chalk artists, and a free indoor Kid’s Zone. Fri 5-11pm, Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 11am-8pm. One day discount admission $14 ($20 at gate) Kids 11 and under free with adult.

Tickets on sale May 9. Fair Park, Dallas.

TasteofDallas.org. See ad in this issue.

JUN 13-17 2016 SUMMER CHESS CAMP AT UT DALLAS Join beginner, intermediate or advanced chess classes for ages 7-14. Morning (9amnoon) and afternoon (1-4pm) plus extended playing classes available. Other camps Jun 20-24, Jul 18-22 & Jul 25-29. www.utdallas. edu/chess. See ad in this issue.

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

HIGHLAND PARK LIBRARY

4700 Drexel Dr., 214-559-9400 Wed - Lapsit Story Time 10am (ages 0-24 mos) Thur - Toddler Story Time 10am (2 year olds) Fri - Preschool Story Time 10am (3 & 4 year olds)

UNIVERSITY PARK LIBRARY 3800 University Blvd, 214-363-9095

Wed - Story Time 3:45pm (ages 4 &-5) Thur - Toddler Story Time, 10:45am

RENNER FRANKFORD BRANCH 6400 Frankford Road, 214-670-6100 Tue - Tales for Tots 10:30am (ages 3-5), Tue - Baby Bounce 11:15am (infants & toddlers)

BOOKMARKS (at North Park Mall)

8687 N. Central Expressway, Suite 1514, 214-671-1381 Mon - NorthCourt - Baby Bounce Basics 10:30am (up to 24 mos.)

Mon - Inside Bookmarks - Baby Bounce Basics 12:30pm (up to 24 mos.)

Wed - Inside Bookmarks - Wiggly, Waggly Words 3:30pm (preschoolers) Thur - NorthCourt - Tickles for Toddlers 10:30am & 3:30pm (2 & 3 year olds) Thur - Inside Bookmarks – Baby Bounce Basics , 12:30pm (up to 24 mos.)

Fri - Inside Bookmarks - Baby Bounce Basics 12:30pm (up to 24 mos.)

Fri - Inside Bookmarks – Preschool Palooza - 3:30pm (ages 2-4)

LAKEWOOD BRANCH LIBRARY 6121 Worth Street, 214-670-1376

Wed - Boogie Woogie Books 10:30am (ages 6 & under)

AUDELIA ROAD BRANCH LIBRARY 10045 Audelia Road, 214-670-1350 Fri - Boogie Woogie Books 10:30am (ages 6 & under)

MESQUITE Main Branch

300 W. Grubb Dr., 972-216-6220

Tues - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-5; Evening Story Time 7pm, all ages Wed - Infant Lapsit Story Time 9:30am, ages 6-12mo; Young & Restless Story Time 10:30am, 13mo -2yrs Thu - Toddler Time 10:30am, ages 18mo-3yrs Sat - Story Time 11am, ages 6-18mo

MESQUITE North Branch

2600 Oates Dr., 972-681-0465

Tue - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-5 Thu - Toddler Time 10:30am, ages 18mo-3yrs All Storytimes are FREE. Listed are the regularly scheduled storytimes.

Call to confirm as schedules are subject to change.

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FUN STUFF { LIFE IS BETTER WHEN YOU’RE LAUGHING }

WHY DO MOTHER KANGAROOS HATE RAINY DAYS?

WHY IS A COMPUTER SO SMART? IT LISTENS TO ITS MOTHERBOARD.

WHAT DID THE MOTHER BULLET SAY TO THE DADDY BULLET? WE’RE GONNA HAVE A BB! Source: boyslife.org

BECAUSE THEIR KIDS HAVE TO PLAY INSIDE!

Fitting in Fitness

“LOVE AS POWERFUL AS YOUR MOTHER’S FOR YOU LEAVES ITS OWN MARK …

TO HAVE BEEN LOVED SO DEEPLY..

WILL GIVE US SOME PROTECTION FOREVER.”

Moms! If you can’t seem to fit in a full 30 minutes of exercise per day, don’t fret.

Studies show that exercising for 10 minutes three times a day is just as effective. Just make sure that you exercise at moderate to high intensity. The exercises don’t have to be complicated. We’re talking brisk walking, dancing with the kids, jumping jacks, climbing the stairs, that sort of thing. Keep in mind, this is the minimal amount of exercise recommended, but hey, a little exercise is better than no exercise.

— J.K. ROWLING

LOL WITH JAMES ESTES!

GOTTA LOVE ‘EM During a playgroup gathering another mom had asked my daughter (4 years) if she helped me with her new baby brother.

She said, “yes.” Then she asked if she held him. She said, “yes.” Finally she asked if she helped feed him. She looked her square in the eye and said, “Oh, no, I don’t have working boobies!”

— CARMEN, MOM OF 2

SUBMIT YOUR FUNNY STORY: editor@suburbanparent.com, subject “Funny”

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LI

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• Ma

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UPLOAD YOUR BIRTHDAY KIDS PICTURE @ 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.

the best

summer

2016

camps online directory @

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BACKTALK { BY KEN SWARNER }

BACK TO THE CIRCUS

T

here was a time when I wrote columns discussing the ‘ins

when I opened my lunch to find six graham crackers, a can of baked

and outs’ of both parents in a family working outside the

beans and a Slim Jim.

home. I haven’t touched on the subject lately because my wife has been on sabbatical - she’s been a stay-at-home

mom for some time.

She returned to the workplace last month. To make a long story

I’d report that the mornings have smoothed out since that first day, but you duel-working parents out there would see right through my fib.

Single working parents, however, might believe me and send me letters that start with the words: Dear #%!$*.

short, I NEED a vacation.

I’d also like to say that my

I’m sharing the workload again.

children have been supportive, but

I am no longer a kept man - a Ward

that would be a lie as well. In fact,

Clever of sorts who brings home

like lions on the Serengeti, they

the bacon and waits for his wife

recognize a lame animal when they

to fry it up in the pan. Now I clean

see one. They come at me from all

the pan.

angles:

I forgot how much is involved

“Dad, I need $10 for a field trip.”

when both a husband and wife

“Dad, can you drive me and my

work. What life is like when you

friend to the mall?”

don’t have that concierge at home

“Dad, I need my shirt washed.”

managing all that needs to be done

“Dad, why are you plugging

to keep the home fires burning.

your ears?”

I’m also rusty - I’ve forgotten

Finally, I just scream...which,

how to multi-task. I used to be able

incidentally, doesn’t make much of

to cook dinner, pick up the house,

a sound when you have your index

organize a Boy Scout meeting and

fingers in your ears - but it does

chew gum at the same time. Now

freak out the cat. I supposed the

I’m lucky to keep my shoelaces tied.

lesson in all of this is how I took my

The first morning my wife went back was an immediate adjustment. I got the kids up, helped them find

stay-at-home mom. It’s not like she went back to work to teach me that

their homework, made breakfast, signed permission slips, shouted

lesson, and who knows if I’ll have the opportunity for a second chance

‘you’ll be late for the bus’ a half-dozen times - just like the olden days.

to appreciate her better, but I certainly learned the value of the services

This left little time, however, for me to put my lunch together for work.

she provided our family.

After the kids and my wife left the house, I ran around quickly

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wife for granted when she was a

Every day I’ll remember those lessons...in between cooking dinner,

opening cupboards and throwing whatever I could find into a brown

picking up the house, organizing Boy Scout meetings and trying to find

bag. By noon I had forgotten what I had done so I was a bit surprised

time to buy gum. SP

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