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APRIL 2015 suburban parent

SUBURBAN PARENT

APRIL 2015 Donâ€™t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Suburban Parent!

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

MARY SHARES

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Renée Higgins renee@suburbanparent.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Patrick Hempﬁng Ken Swarner

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Courtney Blissett www.bliss-photography.com

AD DESIGNERS Jessica Hilderbrand-Marshall Luis Robles So Hee Lee Won

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Nubia de la Garza Doddie Guerra Julissa Ranjel

AD COORDINATOR/DISTRIBUTION

MY FAVORITE SEASON

t’s Spring! My most favorite season of all (did I say this last month). Spring ﬂowers, spring cleaning, spring fashions. I have spring ﬂowers still in the containers they came in on my front porch! Can’t wait to get them into the soil. And my closets and home need to be

refreshed. I still have business suits hanging around, Oh my! Okay, hold

CREATE IN ME A CLEAN HEART, O GOD, AND RENEW A STEADFAST SPIRIT WITHIN ME. — PSALM 51:10

up - Before spring fever seduces you too, I’d like to plant a little seed for you to nurture. A seed planted in your heart. Although spring cleaning brings great pleasure and worth the efforts, the effects only last for a season, however a spiritual cleansing could last for all eternity. So before you labor to gain the pleasurable effects from spring cleaning, why don’t you steady yourself and reﬂect ﬁrst on your relationship with God. Let Him do some spring cleaning on your soul! Drawing close to Him in prayer allows your heart and body to be cleansed. Cleansed from sin when we confess and ask for forgiveness,

Francie Morin francie@suburbanparent.com

cleansed from bitterness (baggage in the attic) when we ask God to forgive others who hurt us.

ACCOUNTING

pleasure, so let him be pleased with the effects of His grace that could last for all eternity. SP

We can’t do this type of cleansing on our own, we need Him. And remember, God made you for His

Carrie Vincent carrie@suburbanparent.com

ADVERTISING advertising@suburbanparent.com

EDITORIAL editor@suburbanparent.com

PHONE/MAIL 972.887.7779 8344 Sterling Street Irving, Texas 75063

Business Spotlight BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS MID-CITIES PEST CONTROL,INC. p. 9 & 27 SOUTHLAKE TUTORING ACADEMY p. 3

COVER MODEL Grayson, 4 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.

SUBURBAN PARENT

Meet Grayson. He is quite a character! He loves to smile, tell jokes, act silly and make people laugh – especially his little brother Brady (7 mos.). He’s a master funny face maker. He also enjoys running and playing outside with friends. He hopes to get a dog this summer. We hope so too, Grayson!

APRIL 2015 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Suburban Parent!

YOU SHOULD KNOW NO TO H2O Infants don’t need to drink water; it can actually be detrimental. A baby who satisfies her appetite and her need to suckle with a water bottle will miss out on the needed nutrition she needs from her scheduled feedings. Breast milk or formula is all they need to stay hydrated for the first six months, unless they’re sick and losing fluids. After six months, you can give baby sips of water, but don’t overdo it. You might give him a tummy ache or make him too full to eat well. When you start introducing solids consult with your pediatrician.

WEIGHTLOSS = BETTER BEDTIME In a recent study of men in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, it was found that a weight gain of 30 pounds lowered testosterone levels as much as if the men had aged 10 years! Low testosterone levels in men lead to depression, loss of muscle mass and bone density, as well as, loss of sexual drive and performance. Help your man lose the extra weight they have accumulated over the years and both of you will be happier.

We know that fiber plays a crucial role in metabolism and weight control. In fact, studies have shown that people who eat diets high in fiber tend to weigh less! Many fiber rich foods are low in calories and can actually curb your appetite. Choose superfoods like oats and pumpkins; choose beans too, from adzuki to Great Northern, beans are high in fiber, packed with protein, and low in fat. Be sure to wash down all that extra fiber with plenty of water to avoid constipation and gas.

GET A JOB! This could be the best thing for your teen this summer. A University of Iowa study found that teen summer jobs increased their self-esteem. Earning money and being able to manage finances creates a sense of self-worth. Having a summer job also decreases boredom and listlessness from isolation, as well as a decreased risk of substance abuse. Always review your teen’s choices and help them make good decisions when deciding where to apply.

SUBURBAN PARENT

MOOD CHANGER Have the winter blahs? Not a morning person? Put some fresh flowers in your home. Research reveals that people feel more compassionate towards others, have less worry and anxiety, and feel less depressed when fresh cut flowers are present in the home. The research also indicates that having flowers at home can have a positive carry-over impact on your mood at work too. Put the flowers where you’ll see them early in the morning. The kitchen is a good spot.

APRIL 2015 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Suburban Parent!

DAILY FIBER NEEDS

MEN

38g

need 38 grams of ﬁber per day

25g

need 25 grams of ﬁber per day

WOMEN

Mid-Cities Pest Control, Inc.,

ver 35 years ago, Roy Leal started a pest control company centered on customer service – putting customers first not as a motto but as a creed. Today, Roy’s son Randy and Randy’s wife, Deborah, continue that commitment and do so at a great value. Over 28,000 happy homeowners later, it’s no wonder why more people turn to Mid-Cities Pest Control, Inc., “The Bug Dude” for help. With free inspections and a never-raise-your-rate promise, it’s easy to see why. “We have customers who today pay the same rate they did 35 years ago,” Randy said. “We honor that promise-as long as you keep on a scheduled service, we won’t raise your rate.” Weekday and Saturday appointments make it convenient for businesses and homeowners to plan service around their schedules. “Plus our free inspection allows you to meet with a trained pest professional to not only discuss the pest you have,” Randy said, but to also discuss the options and plans we have to take care of your needs.” Those plans can include a one-time treatment or reliable monthly service. In addition to Mid-Cities Pest Control’s amazing customer service, you’ll also be pleased to have the ability to have your home repaired with our exclusion services. Exclusion services include repairs to areas of your home where pests might find their way in. Holes in your exterior walls or soffit/facia boards are a common area where squirrels, mice and other insects find their way into your attic or interior spaces. Our professional estimating staff includes Steve Wayne who has 32 years of professional estimating experience. “Having a professional estimator makes our customers feel secure that the cost of any repair will be completed in the most effective way.” Randy said, saving the homeowner money and making sure their project is completed on time and within budget. For customers who may be sensitive to certain pesticides, Mid-Cities Pest Control, Inc. also tries to provide organic options when available. “It’s impossible to treat every pest issue organically,” Randy said, “but there are alternatives out there and we try to use them whenever possible.”

Call for your FREE consultation. 1832 Norwood Plaza • Hurst, Texas 817-354-5350 • 800-310-BUGS (2847)

If you are bothered by pests, including mice and rats or bugs such as ants, roaches and termites or even bed bugs, call Mid-Cities Pest Control. We would love the opportunity to price and repair your home or commercial building to prevent pests from entering the interior.

TheBugDude.com

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APRIL 2015 suburban parent

QUESTIONS

{ + PROFESSIONAL ANSWERS }

ABIGAIL, MOM OF 3 Q. I recently heard that it may not be effective to say “great job” to our child too often when they do something good. What is the best way to praise them?

KAREN, MOM OF 1 Q. My daughter is a bit lazy at home after school. She is not interested in sports and I feel she needs encouragement to get up and move. Any suggestions for affordable after school activities?

A. It’s important to know the ratio of staff to

A. Praise is good. Specific praise better. In other words, instead of simply saying, “good job,’ be more specific and concrete about what the child did to earn the praise, such as “You did a wonderful job picking up all your toys,” or “Thank you for doing your chores without me having to remind you.” The key with effective praise is the following: What gets feedback, gets done better. And the more specific the feedback, the more clearly a child will know not what is (and is not) expected of him or her. The better able we, as adults, are at telling children what specific behaviors we want to see MORE of, the more successful children will be in meeting those expectations and responsibilities. Remember: all kids want to do a good job and make us feel proud of them.

R AC H E L , M O M O F 2 Q. At a special needs camp, will my 7 year old child get the attention he needs, and can he participate fully with the other kids?

A. You may want to consider a girls only group! It would be great to get her into a program with a focus on physical activity that is based on positive youth development for girls. And an environment that teaches life skills to help her be the best that she can be, while making friends that celebrate each other’s achievements. LAURIE MITCHELL, Executive Director of Girls on the Run DFW

camper. Our camp, for example, has a 1 to 3 ratio; more staff is provided if needed. During the registration process many questions are asked to identify your child’s special needs as well as any modifications that may be necessary so that your child could fully participate. Also, it’s important to ask about the training process for the Camp Staff as well as the Volunteers who may be working with your child. Our camp, for example, has a 2 week training period prior to camp. Camp is a great experience for our special needs children! COLLEEN SOUTHARD, M.ED., SLLP Founder/Director of Charis Hills Camp

ABEL TOMATIS, PH.D Galaxy Counseling Center

ASK THE AUTISM THERAPIST DANA MANGUS, MS, CCC/SLP, Achieve Beyond – Pediatric Therapy & Autism Services

Q. When is the best time to start therapy and interaction with other children for a child with a diagnosis of Autism? A. As soon as a diagnosis is given, a child with Autism should seek out therapy options. One of the leading therapeutic techniques that children with Autism benefit from is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ABA is a scientific problem-solving approach designed to produce socially-significant outcomes. In other words, Behavior Analysts aim to improve quality of life for individuals, families, and communities using the science of behavior change. The application of ABA is not limited to individuals with Autism, however over 60 years of research supports its effectiveness in meeting the complex needs of this population. Often, Behavior Analysts will use ABA in social settings so children with similar social deficiencies can socialize with one another to develop stronger social skills.

EMAIL QUESTIONS: editor@suburbanparent.com 10

SUBURBAN PARENT

SUBMIT QUESTIONS : facebook.com/momsolvers

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WE LOVE THIS { YOU WILL TOO }

WELCOME HOME

+ = win me!

1 Your backyard birds are ready to move in their modern architectural bird house! This modernist bird house provides stylish shelter for birds, while providing a nice accent in your garden. This beautiful modern bird house is crafted with matte-glazed earthenware and topped by a recycled teak wooden roof. It is suspended from rope and has stainless steel hardware. www.nova68.com $90 2 TOY, STORY + PHILANTHROPY Each purchase of the Book & Stuffed Animal Set will help to rescue a dog! Jingles’ story is the first in a newly launched series. Of course it’s based on a true story of a real life rescue dog. 100% of profits will go towards helping shelter dogs get adopted. The idea of Operation ResCUTE is to foster the mindset of empathy and create proactive young citizens that will be responsible to their surroundings and mindful of others less fortunate. Buy and SAVE a DOG! www.operationrescute.com $30

NOW HAIR THIS!

3 Try this at home! Make your own hair mask. Mash avocado with a little olive oil and apply to just-shampooed hair for 10 minutes. Rinse and gently pat dry.

GET KORNER’D

4 This game is a proud partner of Autism Speaks! A great challenge for everyone, including those with special needs. A puzzle, that’s also a game, has simple rules; just match the colors on each tile to the pattern on the board. When you played all your tiles you win! So basic yet compelling. Ages 8+ years. www.endlessgames.com $14

A MUST READ

win this!

5 UNLOCKED - A Family Emerging from the Shadows of Autism in this poignant and inspiring story of an autistic child learning to connect with his family. By Susan Levin. www.skyhorsepublishing.com $28

GO ONLINE FOR CHANCE TO WIN: www.suburbanparent.com 12

SUBURBAN PARENT

APRIL 2015 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Suburban Parent!

ARLINGTON’S CHOICE FOR FAMILY DENTISTRY

Kellie Johnson, Welcoming New Patients! Dr. Kellie Johnson, DDS has an iÝÌi Ã Ûi L>V }À Õ ` `i Ì> i` V i > ` Ã > i LiÀ v Ì i v Ü } `i Ì> À}> â>Ì Ã\ • Ƃ « > >««> Ƃ « > • Ƃ iÀ V> i Ì> ƂÃÃ V >Ì •

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DDS

Together with her talented staff, Dr. Johnson builds Li>ÕÌ vÕ Ã iÃ v À > >}iÃ° 7 i Û Ã Ì } iÀ vwVi] Þ Õ Ü w ` ÃÌ>Ìi v Ì i >ÀÌ ÌÀi>Ì i Ì > Ài >Ýi`] V>À }] > ` V v ÀÌ>L i >Ì Ã« iÀi° •

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*>Þ i Ì « > Ã >Û> >L i v À iÝÌi Ã Ûi `i Ì> «À Vi`ÕÀiÃ > ` ÃÕÀi` «>Ì i ÌÃ

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• /iÝ>Ã ƂÃÃ V >Ì v 7 i i Ì ÃÌÃ • ƂV>`i Þ v i iÀ> i Ì ÃÌÃ • /iÝ>Ã i Ì> ƂÃÃ V >Ì

KELLIE JOHNSON, DDS 3900 Arlington Highlands Blvd. Suite #245 Arlington, TX 76018

817-466-8383 817 466 8383

www.happysmilesdentistry.com

MOMENTS { BY PATRICK HEMPFING }

A WAGON FILLED WITH MEMORIES

“

et’s clean out the garage today.” How did this statement come

the night as the garage floor was covered with everything, but family

from my mouth? If I had typed these words, I could have

harmony is more important. Overall, though, I thought we worked

highlighted the sentence and pressed the delete key before

well as a team. Did we have differences of opinion? Yes. Did I go to

anyone saw it. However, like all words, once they’re spoken in

bed exhausted? You bet. Will I get to be the supervisor for day two of

front of witnesses, you can’t take them back. Mattie, my wife, quickly

garage cleaning? Like Jessie’s odds of getting a horse for her next

seconded the idea as this project had been on my Honey Do list for

birthday, not a chance.

quite some time. Jessie, my nine-year-old daughter, made it unanimous. I then pointed out what I saw as the most likely problem in tackling

Though I had been dreading this huge project, my two supervisors and I shared some special times. Mattie and I pulled out possessions we hadn’t

this massive project – too many supervisors. I emphasized, “We can

seen in years and Jessie had never seen. One box contained love letters

only have one supervisor!” Jessie’s hand shot up from the kitchen table,

and poems I wrote to Mattie before we were married. Jessie and Mattie

at which point I realized I either need to raise my hand faster or yell

laughed when I read one letter aloud. I can’t believe I wrote such mushy

“me” when I end select sentences.

stuff and it worries me a little that I have no recollection of writing it.

Okay, besides attempting to tackle this project with two supervisors,

Jessie said she could part with her tiny red wagon. Mattie, Mrs.

yes, Mattie also likes to lead, I knew our different personalities would

Clutterfree, said, “We can’t give that away. That’s where Jessie had her

enter into play. There’s Mr. Sentimental (me). I know Jessie can’t use

apple sales.” Jessie’s preschool class for two-year-olds took a ﬁeld trip

her pink ball glove anymore, but we have to keep

to an apple orchard. I had fun picking apples with Jessie and we ﬁlled

it forever. Then there’s Mrs. Clutterfree (Mattie).

her bag in no time. Of course, Daddy picked the high ones. When we

“We haven’t used it in the last ﬁve years. Take it to Goodwill.” Finally, there’s Miss Open Every Box. “What’s in that box? Let’s pull that box down.” We weren’t into the cleaning project very long before

got home, we decided to have an apple sale. We made a sign “Apples For Sale – Only 25 cents.” Jessie loaded her apples into her little red wagon and set up shop with her newly acquired red and green inventory. I cleared a small bookshelf in our guest room and it made a

I concluded that a trip

perfect display for Jessie’s merchandise. We had so much fun selling

to the dentist for a

and buying apples, learning about money, giving change, and talking

root canal would

about how to run a successful business that we repeated the process

have been more fun. At day’s end, I was

after Halloween with Jessie’s trick-or-treat candy. My most sentimental moment came when I pulled a sign away from

pleased with the

the wall and found half of a pink, plastic Easter egg. Jessie hid plastic

progress my

eggs long after Easter had ended. To make hide and seek last longer,

two supervisors

she split each egg in half. I, Mr. Sentimental, said, “Oh, I’m keeping this.” Of course, Mrs. Clutterfree’s immediate response was,

and I had made. The car would

“Trash!” Now, I admit, a half of a plastic egg covered with

have to stay

dust and spider webs doesn’t make the best keepsake, but

parked in the

I’m not a hoarder. Okay, maybe I’m a hoarder of memories. The garage clean-up will probably take several more days. Will I

driveway for

ﬁnd the other half of the pink egg? Mattie better hope not, because if I do, I’m saving it. I’ll store it in Jessie’s tiny red wagon. Until next month, remember to cherish the moments. SP

FOLLOW PATRICK @PatrickHempfing

SUBURBAN PARENT

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. www.facebook.com/patricklhempﬁng

APRIL 2015 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Suburban Parent!

ng Tec i o G h

at Camp

Kids Unplug and Make Lifelong Co ections BY ASHLEY TALMADGE

n our world of constant connectivity, some might argue that kids shouldn’t be expected to “unplug” for weeks on end. And yet most overnight summer camps are still tech-free zones. Why? Recent studies reveal there are good reasons for taking a tech break. And seasoned camp directors are privy to a little known fact: Kids actually enjoy it. Erec Hillis, boys’ camp director at Camp Champions in Texas, says, “Many of our campers actually thank us for the opportunity to put away their phones for a while. Some of them say that it is exhausting to try to keep up with all the demands of being available 24/7, and that camp is a welcome break.” Nonetheless, it can be daunting to think about letting the smartphone, iPad, and laptop go untouched for the camp session. And parents may feel just as anxious as their kids. After all, we’re used to communicating with our children whenever and wherever the notion strikes. What to do? First of all, it helps to know why most camps remain unplugged. Kevin Gordon, director of Camp Kupugani outside of Chicago, says, “Because the whole point of our camp is to enjoy nature, facilitate communication, and empower children by developing

SUBURBAN PARENT

those skills, we don’t allow cell phones or iPods, which diminish interpersonal interaction.” Gordon says there’s solid evidence to support this view, and points to a recent study from UCLA in which a group of sixth graders unplugged for ﬁve days at an outdoor camp. This group showed marked improvement in their ability to accurately read nonverbal emotional cues when compared to a control group of same-age students who hadn’t yet been to camp. While the researchers did not dismiss the value of technology as a communication and learning tool, they concluded that “digital screen time, even when used for social interaction, could reduce time spent developing skills in reading nonverbal cues of human emotion.” It is through face-to-face encounters that kids gain the ability to see another’s perspective, and develop empathy. They learn to cooperate and contribute. All this is important in the cultivation of lasting friendships. In his book, Homesick and Happy: How Time Away from Parents Can Help a Child Grow, psychologist Michael Thompson contends it is because campers spend so much time together, that “camp friendships grow so quickly and deeply.” The camp environment itself inspires face-to-face interaction. Campers eat, sleep, and play in

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proximity to one another. Hillis says, “Kids want to interact with one another…Camp allows kids to be near enough to each other so that they don’t need their phones. They can just walk over and start a conversation.” Still, it’s a good idea to prepare your child for the tech-free experience. You may simply inform him of the “no electronics” rule, and express your confidence in his ability to abide by it. Hillis reminds parents not to commiserate with a child who seems reluctant to give up his device. Just remind him that all campers will follow the same rules, and that the camp has good reasons for being tech-free. As Hillis says, “We simply want kids to be comfortable in knowing that they can turn the phone off for a period of time and perhaps enjoy life even more richly, rather than feeling that they are missing out on something.” Gordon recommends experimenting with a tech break of a day or two, sometime before the start of camp. “Do it as a family and recognize how (after perhaps an initial shock), it’s actually fun and you feel more connected as people!” He also suggests discussing how your camper can deal with homesickness, and how you’ll keep in touch without devices. Many camps now offer one-way email; parents send email, which is then printed and delivered to campers by the staff. However, Gordon favors old-fashioned snail mail, and says email, “ though easier for the parent to send, is generally not as appreciated by the camper.” In fact, experts like Thompson recommend letter-writing as the primary form of communication between parent and camper. In Homesick and Happy, he writes that “the time spent between sending and receiving a letter is a valuable opportunity for both parent and child to think about one another without having to do anything with or for each other.” He believes a child cannot become independent without spending time away from parents, and warns that “minute-by-minute contact with parents undermines the sense of separation.” So don’t be the parent who slips an extra phone into your child’s duffel! Gordon acknowledges that being disconnected from screens is more difficult for parents than for campers. “ It’s also a different experience (and harder), since the parent is in their same world, while the camper is busy in a new environment,” he says. Yet parents would do well to practice some tech “downtime” for the duration of the camp session. Thompson writes, “My advice: Stop the emails, just send one or two packages per summer and give yourself a break from checking the camp’s online photos. Go buy some stamps and write a long letter or two or nineteen.” During the weeks at summer camp, your child will make new friends. Everyday she’ll eat, bunk, play, and share adventures with them. She’ll have heart-to-hearts. Face-to-face. True, she may use social media to stay in touch with her camp friends throughout the year. But memories of the things they did together—tipping the canoe, singing by the fire, playing pranks on the counselors—will create the strongest of bonds. She’ll yearn for next summer when she can ditch the smartphone and wrap her arms around her forever friends. Face-to-face. SP Ashley Talmadge is a freelance writer who lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two young sons. She enjoys writing about the many facets of parenthood, and her work has appeared in dozens of parenting publications throughout the U.S and Canada.

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APRIL 2015 SUBURBAN PARENT

summer camp CAMP INVENTION 800-968-4332 www.campinvention.org See ad on p. 39 CITY OF ARLINGTON 817-277-5001 www.naturallyfun.org See ad on p. 31 CUB CREEK SCIENCE CAMP 573-458-2125 www.myanimalcamp.com See ad on p. 29 DESTINATION SCIENCE www.destinationscience.org See ad on p. 39 DIFFERENT STOKES SWIM SCHOOL 817-649-SWIM (7946) www.differentstrokesswimschool.com See ad on p. 32 ERIC BELL SOCCER ACADEMY www.ericbellsocceracademy.com See ad on p. 35 EXPLORE HORIZONS 817-697-5225 – Alliance Town Center 817-656-4180 – Colleyville www.explore-horizons.com See ad on p. 19 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN GRAPEVINE 817-488-8526 www.fpcgv.org See ad on p. 41 FULL CIRCLE RIDING ACADEMY 817-223-6036 www.fullcircleridingacademy.com See ad on p. 30

621 E. Southlake Blvd. Suite 120 Southlake, TX 76092

817-488-4600 18

SUBURBAN PARENT

MID-CITIES ARLINGTON SWIMMING 817-925-0505 www.marswim.org See ad on p. 42 RIVER LEGACY FOUNDATION 817-860-6752 www.riverlegacy.org See ad on p. 35 SAFESPLASH SWIM SCHOOL 817-876-0136 www.safesplash.com See ad on p. 39 SOUTHLAKE TUTORING ACADEMY 817-251-6950 www.SouthlakeTutoringAcademy.com See ad on p. 3 SUNSHINE GLAZE 817-424-1417 www.sunshineglaze.com See ad on p. 26 TCU BASEBALL CAMP www.tcubaseballcamps.com See ad on p. 38 TEXAS PREMIER YOUTH SPORTS 469-834-8450 www.texaspremieryouthsports.com See ad on p. 26 THE MASTERS TOUCH SCHOOL OF MUSIC 817-488-6903 www.themasterstouchschool.com See ad on p. 34

IRVING ARTS CENTER 972-252-2787 www.irvingartscenter.com See ad on p. 19

THE SUGAR & SPICE RANCH CAMP 830-460-8487 www.sugarandspiceranch.com See ad on p. 17

KIMBELL ART MUSEUM 817-332-8451 www.kimbellart.org See ad on p. 31

UTD CHESS CAMP 972-883-4899 www.utdallas.edu/chess See ad on p. 31

SEE FULL CAMP LISTING ONLINE: www.suburbanparent.com

APRIL 2015 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Suburban Parent!

Donâ€™t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Suburban Parent!

APRIL 2015 SUBURBAN PARENT

Fabulous Family Interviews

W A fun way to create memories! BY JANNY J. JOHNSON

SUBURBAN PARENT

hen I grow up, I want to be a giraffe,” my three-year-old daughter declared during one of our annual family interviews The following year she wanted to be an artist. When she was six, she decided she’d like to live on a ranch and draw her horses instead of riding them! As parents, we all measure our kids’ growth in feet and inches. But how do you measure their ideas and dreams? Well, recording yearly interviews with your children will provide a unique way of capturing who they are at that moment in time. Here are a few ideas for you to conduct annual family interviews of your own.

BEFORE THE INTERVIEW A little preparation will smooth the way. Create a list of questions and adapt it to each child. To keep the session from becoming tedious, limit your queries to about six or eight. If your child is in an interesting phase, be sure to craft questions that will provide insight or laughter in the years ahead. For example, we asked our seven-year-old son what grown-up thing he’d like to do. He replied, “I want to drive the car. I already know how to drive. I’ve been watching.” Decide on a quiet place where you can interview your children comfortably. Anywhere from the living room to a bunk bed – even the sandbox, if that’s where you can keep them in one spot for a few minutes. Talk to your kids about what the family interview is all about. Let them know that you want them to answer a few questions honestly, but also be able to have some fun. Be sure to tell them that you’ll be videotaping the interviews. Hand your kids some sort of microphone, even if it’s just a paper towel tube or a banana. Make

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sure that you have your recorder running before the children get into position. Turning on a device in front of kids can make them clam up, and you’ll want to capture any gooﬁness as they arrive.

THE QUESTIONS To avoid one word answers, ask open-ended questions. You might want to share some of the questions with the kids ahead of time so they can think about how to answer. If they get stuck, take a break, change the wording of the question, or make suggestions. Even if most of the interview is constant giggles, which may feel frustrating at the time, many years later your whole family will love watching the recording of the silly session.

CONDUCTING THE INTERVIEW Keep the interview fun. Let your kids choose what to wear. When our son wanted to be a cowboy, he wore his fringed leather vest. When my daughter was eleven, she wore a horned Viking hat because she thought it was hilarious. Invite your children to bring something special with them, a recent art project, their stuffy—even a pet—and be sure to have them tell what they brought and why.

AFTER THE INTERVIEW Gather your family together to view the recordings. Or you can save them to be enjoyed later. Some of our favorite evenings have been watching funny moments of our recorded interviews from years past. Whichever way you choose, family interviews can be a wonderful tradition. Whether you conduct them on New Year’s or at the same time every year (like in their birthday month), this is a fun twist on measuring your kids’ development. SP

10 WAYS TO BRING JOY

INTO YOUR LIFE

STUDIES SHOW A TODDLER WILL LAUGH AN AVERAGE OF 200 TIMES A DAY. BUT, BY THE TIME HE BECOMES AN ADULT, HE WILL ONLY CRACK A SMILE 6 TIMES DAILY. IF THIS IS A PERSONAL STRUGGLE FOR YOU, HERE ARE 10 WAYS TO BRING JOY BACK INTO YOUR LIFE. SIMPLIFY Streamline your life on occasion the same as you would a full closet. Drop the things you are holding on to that are no longer necessary or ﬁt who you are. Time is limited and so are you. Simplify your priorities to a level where you shine to the brightest of your abilities.

LAY YOUR BURDENS DOWN Worries can be awfully

WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM YOUR FRIENDS We

WHEN THE RAIN FALLS The world is not out to get

COME DOWN TO YOUR CHILD’S LEVEL One thing children are very good at is ﬁnding ways to have fun. They can take a simple cardboard box and turn it into Disney World. You still have that same ability inside you. It just got stuffed way down inside after too many boardroom meetings and mortgage payments. Unleash him! Get in there and mix it up with your kids. Make funny noises. Laugh at ridiculous things. Smile so big your cheeks hurt.

RISE UP You were in the office for ten hours. Drove

NEW PERSPECTIVE Life is ﬁlled with blessings. The

sound of your children laughing. The look in your wife’s eyes. The deep feeling of satisfaction that comes with hard work. At times, we tend to only see the negative things around us. Gain a new perspective and really start picking out all the blessings we have been given. Joy surrounds us even at our darkest moments. Open your senses and receive it. Cultivate thankfulness..

GET OUTSIDE During any season, no matter where you are, nature always leaves an open door. Asking you to enter and experience her wonders. Go hiking, ride a bike, or simply walk hand in hand with your beautiful wife. Get outside and ﬁll your spirit and lungs with this amazing creation we call earth.

PASSION Passion equals joy. Always. We are not all fortunate enough to make a living doing a job we feel deep passion for. That’s ok. Find your passion elsewhere. Anything that will make you come alive and stirs your mind into full activation. Joy will always follow. This is a family website, but suffice it to say, passion with your wife is included. Skip paying the bills on a Saturday morning and instead grab her and go sneak off somewhere. You get the picture.

heavy. Without warning, they can begin to drag you down as they accumulate. You are not Superman and you do not own a cape. Do what you can do and let it go. As Mom used to say, “Look on the bright side of things”. Optimism is essential to happiness.

are social creatures. It might seem impossible in this day and age, but some people can feel isolated and alone. There is no need to feel that way. Social opportunities are everywhere. Online networking sites provide a great way to connect with friends old and new. People are ready to love you if you give them the chance. Make time to connect with your friends on a regular basis. Life is meant to be shared.

you. It only seems that way sometimes. The car broke down on the interstate. You did not get the raise in pay you need. Your teenager just told you he hates you. Life happens. In order for a beautiful ﬂower to reach full glory, it must endure a good amount of rain. When rain falls in your life, realize that it is designed to help you grow. Use those moments to strengthen your character.

home in horrible traffic for another hour. All you want to do is crumble in a heap on the couch. Well, the couch potato is rarely a happy soul. Rise up! Go throw the football outside with your son. Take your daughter to get ice cream after dinner and then window shop. Work out. Take a walk. Get the blood ﬂowing and the pearly whites shining.

SEEK A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

We have a Father in heaven that loves us. That cares for us. Just as you do with your own children. He is always outside of our door knocking. Open the door. Talk to God about your life. Seek His will on direction and purpose. God desires His joy to permeate your life. — Reprinted with permission

This is where dads in any stage of fatherhood can ﬁnd helpful resources to aid in their parenting. Fathers can also sign up to start or attend one of our All Pro Dads chapters.

WWW.ALLPRODAD.COM 22

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KNOW IT ALL { YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR }

APRIL 2015 WED 1 EASTER BUNNY’S WORKSHOP 9:30-11:30am. Step inside the Easter Bunny’s Workshop with us! We’ll decorate eggs, create some magical crafts and of course go on an egg hunt! Dottie Lynn Recreation Center, 3200 Norwood Ln., Arlington, 817-277-5001.

SUMMER REGISTRATION BEGINS: WEEKLY STEAM ART ADVENTURE CAMPS AT IRVING ARTS CENTER Explore the exciting ways that Science, Technology, Engineering, ART and Math collide. The Arts Center offers weekly camp options for kids ages 4-18. Children can steam open a summer of creativity and fun in 14 camps jammed with adventures in art, theater, and music. Students learn mad skills, make friends and have a blast! Registration is ongoing, camps are June 8-August 14, Ages 4 -18. Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving, www.irvingartscenter.com.

“PEANUTS…NATURALLY” Runs through Apr. 22. How many suns? Is the Earth ﬂat? Charles Schulz touched on many aspects of the natural world during the nearly 50 years he created the Peanuts comic strip (October 1950 to February 2000). During the 1950s and 1960s, Schulz’s characters explored aspects of the natural world with wonder and delight, and their cockamamie understanding of the world around them afforded many opportunities to introduce readers of the strip to fun facts about the natural world. Visit website for gallery hours. Admission is free. Grapevine Tower Gallery, 636 S. Main Street, Grapevine, 800-457-6338, www.grapevinetexasusa.com/includes/calendar-of-events/-Peanuts-Naturally-/19155/

THE TALE OF PETER RABBIT Runs through Apr. 5. Back by popular demand! The musical adaptation of Be-

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atrix Potter’s beloved rabbit tale lavishly blends puppetry and live acting on the Baker Theater’s stage. Peter Rabbit’s mother warned her children not to go into Mr. McGregor’s garden, lest they get baked into a pie like their father. When she leaves the burrow, curiosity gets the best of little Peter, and he visits the garden. Will he escape the fate of his father and ﬁnd the way back to the safety and warmth of his home? Fall in love again with this cozy tale of everyone’s favorite naughty bunny. Enjoyed by ages 4 and up Dallas Children’s Theater, 5938 Skillman, Dallas, 214-7400051, www.dct.org.

RODGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN’S THE KING & I Runs through Apr. 5. East versus West makes for a dramatic, richly textured and ultimately uplifting tale of enormous fascination. Visit website for speciﬁc dates, show times and tickets. Music Hall at Fair Park, 909 First Ave., Dallas, 214-691-7200, www.dallassummermusicals.org/shows_kingandi.shtm.

THE INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION OF SHERLOCK HOLMES Runs through May 10. Elementary? Maybe for Sherlock Holmes, but how will you fare when you try to solve a captivating, original murder mystery in the tradition of the master detective? Come inside and find out! The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes brings this world to life as never before as you step into Conan Doyle’s Victorian London and work side-by-side with his legendary detective. You’ll learn to use investigative tools and techniques from Holmes himself, and test yourself with exciting, interactive crime-solving opportunities. Hurry along! The game’s afoot! Perot Museum of Science and Nature, 2201 N. Field Street, Dallas, 214-428-5555, www.perotmuseum.org.

THU 2 JUMPSTART STORIES AND ARTSPRING HAS SPRUNG! 10am-12pm. Irving Public Library joins the Irving Arts Center to present a lively story time celebrating Spring. Flowers bud and birds chirp as kids welcome the season with stories and blooming crafts. All supplies provided. Ages 2 and up. Call 972-252-2787 to pre-register groups of 10 or more. FREE. Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving, 972-252-2787.

MATH HOMEWORK HELP 7TH-12TH GRADES 6-8pm. Every Thursday of the month (ongoing) at 6pm-8pm (except for HEB ISD holidays). Ages: Grades 7-127th-12th grade math homework help taught by Marsha Davidson/HEBisd Math Teacher. Registration is not required-ﬁrst come ﬁrst served program. Bedford Public Library, Teen Room, 2424 Forest Ridge Dr., Bedford, 817-952-2374, www.bedfordlibrary.org.

CANVAS & COCKTAILS CLASS AT SUNSHINE GLAZE 6:30-8:30pm. Learn step by step how to paint our beautiful “Sunset Owl”. BYOB! Adults & mature teens only. $35 per person. Reservations Required. Sunshine Glaze, 405 N. Carroll Ave., Southlake, 817-424-1417, www.sunshineglaze.com.

FRI 3 DAY OFF CAMP! 7am-6:30pm. Sign your kids up for a day of activities such as gym sports, games, arts and crafts, movies and much more. Participants should bring a sack lunch, the afternoon snack will be provided. Pre-registration is required. This camp is open to ages 5-12 for $20 the day. Hugh Smith Recreation Center and Indoor Pool, 1815 New York Ave., Arlington, 817-275-1351.

STORYTIME WITH SUNSHINE 10-11:30am. Every Friday morning through April 3rd. $20 per child. Ages 3-5.Reservations required. Sunshine Glaze, 405 N. Carroll Ave., Southlake, 817-424-1417, www.sunshineglaze.com

FIRST FRIDAYS AT THE FARMSPINNING & WEAVING 10am-2pm. This month join Nash Farm to experience how ﬁbers were turned into fabric on the farm. Registration is required. Participants of all ages are encouraged to attend. Space is limited, contact Nash Farm and register today! Nash Farm, 626 Ball St., Grapevine, 817410-3185, www.NashFarm.org.

DALLAS STARS VS. BLUES 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, stars.nhl.com.

SAT 4 GE IRVING MARATHON 5:30am-2pm. The GE Irving Marathon is expecting more than 2,500 runners to compete. The USATF certiﬁed course will run from the Irving Convention Center through beautiful Las Colinas, eventually running the majestic Campion Trails. Course will only run on paved surfaces; no grass no levees! All Marathon participants will receive a 2015 Irving Marathon Race Shirt and Finisher Medal! Visit website to register and for all race day information. Registration Fees: $105 until April 1 $115 through race day (April 4, 2015) Runners must be at least 12 years old to participate in the Irving Half Marathon. Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas, 505 W. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving, 214-843-5596, www.irvingmarathon.com

EASTER BUNNY TRAIN The Easter Bunny will be greeting guests and riding along on the 10am Family Fun Train, the Fort Worth Stockyards 1

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KNOW IT ALL p.m. excursion, as well as the 2:45 p.m. Stockyards Trinity River Ride. On Sunday, April 5, there will also be a special afternoon Easter Fun Train at 2 p.m. The train will not go to the Fort Worth Stockyards on Sunday, April 5. Cotton Belt Depot, 705 S. Main Street, Grapevine, 817-410-3185.

FREE EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA AT MARTIN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9am-12pm. Games, pancake breakfast, animals, crafts. Egg hunt starts at 11:30am. Martin United Methodist Church, 2621 Bedford Rd, Bedford, www.martinmethodist.org.

EASTER EGGS-TRAVAGANZA AT ABUNDANT LIFE CHURCH 10-11:30am. Hunting for some good family fun? Hop on out to Abundant Life Church in Grapevine and enjoy family activities, games, inﬂatables, cake bake-off, prizes, and an egg hunt. Free event. Abundant Life Church, 1520 W. Wall Street, Grapevine, 817329-0454.

COLLEYVILLE HERITAGE LIONS CLUB FIFTH ANNUAL “RABBIT HUNT” 12-4pm. The Colleyville Heritage Lions Club presents its Fifth Annual “Rabbit Hunt” at the beautiful Delaney Vineyards, Grapevine. This event has been named as one of the top three Easter Egg Hunt Events in the DFW area. Mr. & Mrs Bunny arrive by limo and met by Delmo, Peeps, MadHatter and Ringmaster! There will be face painting, great food, pictures, music & dancing along with a petting zoo and bounce houses. The event is FREE with minimal charges for concessions. Delaney Vineyards & Winery, 2000 Champagne Blvd., Grapevine, 817-709-5362, www. colleyvilleheritagelionsclub.org.

CHEROKEE BASKET WEAVING 1-5pm. Join Hannah as she guides you through the process of making your own beautiful Cherokee-style double walled basket. Class is designed for ages 18+. $25 per person program fee includes general Village admission and class materials. Log Cabin Village, 2100 Log Cabin Village Lane, Fort Worth, 817-392-5881, www. logcabinvillage.org.

DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www. mavs.com

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SUN 5 EASTER AT LAKESIDE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 8am Early Worship Service; 9:15am Family Style Breakfast; 9:50am Resurrection Day Egg Hunt; 10:30am Worship Service with Lakeside Choir. Lakeside Presbyterian Church, 2701 W. Southlake Blvd., Southlake, 817-4310151, www.LakesidePCA.org. See ad in this issue.

MON 6 What Is Poetry? With Poet, Editor, and Teaching Artist, Sebastian H Paramo 7-8pm. Come to the library to read, write, and share the art of words in a special mini workshop of poetry! Mr. Paramo will lead a discussion on the importance of poems from the classics to contemporary. Special attention will be made on the elements of a poem and what inspires us all to write poetry. This event is free. Grapevine Library Program Room, 1201 Municipal Way, Grapevine, 817-410-3404.

TUE 7 SPRING SWIM SESSION BEGINS AT DIFFERENT STROKES SWIM SCHOOL Swim lessons for toddlers thru adults at the indoor heated pool at Harris Methodist HEB. Evening classes available. Other sessions begin May 5 & June 2. Call or register online using link below. Different Strokes Swim School, Hurst, 817-649-SWIM, differenstrokesswimschool.com. See ad in this issue.

THE ILLUSIONISTS Apr. 7-19. Direct from Broadway, the world’s best-selling magic show is coming to Dallas Summer Musicals! This mind blowing spectacular showcases the jaw dropping talents of seven of the most incredible Illusionists on earth. The Illusionists has shattered box office records across the globe and dazzles audiences of all ages with a powerful mix of the most outrageous and astonishing acts ever to be seen on stage. This non-stop show is packed with thrilling and sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions. Visit website for speciﬁc dates, showtimes & tickets. Music Hall at Fair Park, 909 First Ave., Dallas, 214691-7200, www.dallassummermusicals. org/shows_illusionists.shtm.

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KNOW IT ALL WED 8 DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. PHOENIX SUNS

6pm. Toyota Stadium, 9200 World Cup Way, Frisco, 469-365-0000, www. fcdallas.com.

8:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave, Dallas, www. mavs.com.

DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, JR.

THU 9 INFORMAL TOUR NIGHT AT COVENANT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 7-8pm. Come tour the campus and learn about Premier Classical Education for Ages PK3 – Grade 12. Covenant Christian Academy, 901 Cheek Sparger Rd., Colleyville, 817-281-4333, www.covenantchristian.net. See ad in this issue.

SAT 11 DFW MACHINE KNITTERS GUILD

8am-4pm. Take advantage of the opportunity to eat healthy with locally-grown produce and products. Runs weekly through Oct. 17. Town Square Gazebo, 325 S. Main Street, Grapevine.

GRAPEVINE MARKET

GRAPEVINE JOB FAIR 2015

9am-2pm. Grapevine Market is held every Thursday and Saturday from 9am-2pm, April through mid-October. Located in Liberty Park across from City Hall, The Grapevine Market features a variety of vendors offering home decor, jewelry, collectibles and much more. Liberty Park, 299 S. Main, Grapevine.

FRI 10 DAY OUT WITH THOMAS Ride with Thomas, meet Sir Topham Hatt and more. Additional dates to ride are April 17-19, 705 S. Main, Grapevine, 866-468-7630 www.ticketweb.com/ dowt. See ad in this issue.

TEXAS RANGERS VS. HOUSTON ASTROS 3:05pm. Rangers Home Opener. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, rangers.mlb.com.

ME AND MYAMERICAN GIRL DOLL CLASS AT SUNSHINE GLAZE 4-6pm. Paint a mini ceramic tea set for you and your doll to enjoy together! $30 per child. Ages 5 & up. Reservations required. Sunshine Glaze, 405 N. Carroll Ave., Southlake, 817-424-1417, www.sunshineglaze.com.

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Fri. 7pm & Sat. 2pm. The Highlands School presents the Disney Jr. version of the tale as old as time about beautiful Belle and the enchanted Beast she grows to love. Adults $15; seniors, children 12 and under, $10. Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd/, Irving, www.irvingartscenter.com.

10am-12:30pm. Every month we have our program followed by a brief business meeting and Show and Tell that is bound to inspire you. When you come, bring something that you have knitted to show us. It can be as simple as a swatch up to an entire garment! Grapevine Library Program Room, 1201 Municipal Way, Grapevine, 817-410-3404.

GRAPEVINE FARMERS MARKET

FC DALLAS VS. COLORADO

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1-4pm. The Grapevine Community Outreach Center is partnering with The Grapevine Chamber of Commerce to host the 2nd Annual Job Fair. Job seekers will have the opportunity to meet & interview with local employers representing several industries including restaurants, retail stores, hotels, car dealerships, household service companies, entertainment venues, manufacturing, and ﬁnance. More than 30 employers are expected to participate in this event. The job fair will primarily focus on entry and middle level positions. A bi-lingual English/ Spanish application help desk will be available at the venue for job seekers who need assistance. On-site child care and light refreshments will also be provided at no cost. All attendees will be eligible for a raffle drawing at the end of the event. Timberline Elementary School, 3220 Timberline Drive, Grapevine, 817-421-2192.

HERITAGE PARK TOURSEULESS 1-5pm. Free tours of historic Heritage Park are offered on the second Saturday of every month between 1 – 5 p.m. Visit the all-new Euless Heritage Museum at the Ruth Millican Center, as well as the Himes Log House, the Fuller House and the McCormick Barn. Come see “HOW WE LIVED.” Group tours are

MARINA ALMAYEVA SCHOOL OF

CLASSICAL BALLET Famous Russian Vaganova Method Real Classical Ballet Training! • • • • • • • •

Classes for students age 3 -19 Ballet Pointe Variation Character Dance Lyrical/Jazz Stretching/Conditioning Piano Lessons with Experienced Instructor with Master’s Degree

Preparation for prestigious international ballet competitions! Annual productions of The Nutcracker!

102 E. GRAPEVINE HWY • HURST TX 76054 • 817-788-0818 WWW.MA-BALLETSCHOOL.COM

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KNOW IT ALL available on different days depending on staff availability. Heritage Park, 201 Cullum Drive, Euless, 817-685-1649.

Public Library, 2424 Forest Ridge Dr., Bedford, 817-952-2374, www.bedfordlibrary.org.

DALLAS OPERA FAMILY SEASON-BILLY GOATS GRUFF

TEXAS RANGERS VS. LOS ANGELES ANGELS

2pm. The Dallas Opera’s newest family production is an adaptation of the popular folk tale based on scenes from operas by W.A. Mozart, G. Donizetti, and G. Rossini. Sung in English, this story reinforces a strong anti-bullying message, the importance of kindness and attending school regularly. The lobby will open for fun activities at 12:30pm. Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora Street, Dallas, 214-443-1043, www. dallasopera.org/family.

7:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, rangers.mlb.com.

DALLAS STARS VS. PREDATORS

DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS

7pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, stars.nhl.com.

7pm. Fan Appreciation Night. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www.mavs.com.

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

SUN 12 FREE FEE SUNDAY AT SUNSHINE GLAZE 12-5pm. No studio fees on ceramic painting all day plus 20% off mosaics & glass fusion. We do not take reservations for Free Fee Sunday. Sunshine Glaze, 405 N Carroll Ave., Southlake, 817-484-1417, www.sunshineglaze.com.

TEXAS RANGERS VS. HOUSTON ASTROS 2:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, rangers.mlb.com.

MON 13 TEXAS RANGERS VS. LOS ANGELES ANGELS 7:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, rangers.mlb.com.

TUE 14 TEDDY BEAR PICNIC 10:15-10:35am or 11-11:20am. Join Ms. Carrie and Ms. Sarah for a special outdoor teddy bear picnic story time. Little ones are encouraged to bring their favorite stuffed animal friend to join the fun. Don’t forget your picnic blanket! Teddy bear-themed refreshments will be served. Please check in at the Children’s Information Desk. Bedford

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WED 15 TEXAS RANGERS VS. LOS ANGELES ANGELS 1:05pm. Nolan Ryan Beef $1 Hot Dog Night & Jackie Robinson Day Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, rangers.mlb.com.

FRI 17 FRUGAL FARM WIFE 9am-4pm. Visit Nash Farm and experience stepping into a 19th century home while witnessing the domestic duties of a farm family. Guests have the opportunity to see costumed interpreters performing seasonal chores using tools and techniques of the period, such as sewing, spinning, weaving, dying, cooking, washing, ironing laundry, cleaning, gardening, harvesting, preserving, making candles or other household examples. This open-house setting allows guests to discuss the activities with the interpreters and involvement may be encouraged when possible. Following your visit to the farmhouse, you may visit the farm grounds to complete your experience. Registration is required, but walk-in registration is also encouraged. Participants of all ages may attend. Space is limited, contact Nash Farm to register today! $3 per person. Nash Farm, 626 Ball St., Grapevine, 817-410-3185, www. grapevinetexasusa.com/nash-farm.

SAT 18 EPIC EARTH DAY 9am-2pm. The EPIC event offers attendees the opportunity to recycle, shop, play, relax, and network with local businesses and community organizations through a number of attractions. Recycle Alley: Where people bring e-waste from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for recycling: computers, mobile phones,

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KNOW IT ALL laptops, etc. Vendor Expo: Where attendees learn how local businesses are adopting EPIC practices 365 days a year! NOTE: EXHIBITOR SPACE IS STILL AVAILABLE! Kid’s Eco-Play Area: This area is a fun way for kids of all ages to learn about creating and living in an EPIC community. KGVB Pavilion Plaza: Learn more about how we keep Grapevine beautiful. Hydration Station: Fresh and bottled water provided free to attendees. Botanical Gardens at Heritage Park, 411 Ball Street, Grapevine, 817-994-1386, www.kgvb.org/ current-events/epic-earth-day-2015.

REPTICON DALLAS REPTILE & EXOTIC ANIMAL EXPO Sat. & Sun. Repticon Dallas is a reptile event featuring vendors offering reptile pets, supplies, feeders, cages, and merchandise as well as live animal seminars and frequent free raffles for coveted prizes. Exciting, educational, family-oriented fun for everyone! Hours: Saturday: 10am-5pm (VIP Entry at 9am). Sunday: 10am-4pm (No VIP Early Entry). Admission: Adults-$10, Children (5-12)-$5, Under 5-Free Knights of Columbus Center, 2280 Springlake Road, Farmers Branch, 863-268-4273.

FC DALLAS VS. TORONTO FC 7:30pm. Toyota Stadium, 9200 World Cup Way, Frisco, www.fcdallas.com

SUN 19 GRAPEVINE QUILT CHAT 2-4:30pm. Quilt Chat meets the third Sunday of every month. A variety of topics are introduced, from beginners all the way to advanced. Grapevine Public Library Program Room, 1201 Municipal Way, Grapevine, 817-410-3404.

THU 23

Storytime. Grapevine Public Library, 1201 Municipal Way, Grapevine, 817410-3405.

FRI 24 HEALTH & WELLNESS EXPO 9am-1pm. Make 2015 the year you focus on health and well-being. This free event is open to all ages and offers a variety of health screenings and wellness demonstrations. Interested in having your group or business be a part of the Health & Wellness Expo? For more information on the expo and to reserve a booth call 817-277-8091. Eunice Activity Center, 1000 Eunice St, Arlington, 817-277-8091.

DENTON ARTS & JAZZ FESTIVAL Fri., Sat. & Sun. The 35th annual three-day event is a celebration of the arts. More than 2000 professional and amateur performers on six stages showcase the best in jazz, pop, rhythm & blues and full orchestra music. In addition, community and school groups represent a wide variety of dance, choral, storytelling and theatre performances. Fine artists and craftsman, who are juried, come from all over the region to demonstrate exhibit and sell their creations. Abundant options of food and beverages are available in addition to the entertainment. Clowns and other activities compliment the festivals, including the large Children’s Art Tent that offers numerous art experiences under the leadership of qualiﬁed instructors. Visit website for complete details including festival hours and entertainment line ups. Admission: Free, Parking: Anywhere around the park grounds. **No Coolers. No Pets. Only service dogs allowed. Quakertown Park, 321 E. McKinney, Denton, 940-565-0931, www.dentonjazzfest.com.

COFFEE & CRAFTING 9:15-11:15am. Enjoy good company and coffee while having fun creating our Pinterest crafts! We will choose a fun and easy craft and get the supplies needed for you to leave with a ﬁnished craft project. Be a part of an environment that will provide simple learning for creative living! Eunice Activity Center, 1000 Eunice Street, Arlington.

LET’S GO GREEN WITH THE MERRY MAKERS 7-7:30pm. In honor of Earth Day, the Merry Makers will use magic and puppets to teach about recycling and taking care of the planet at Family

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EARTH DAY TEXAS 2015 Earth Day Texas (formerly Earth Day Dallas) is a free three-day event that seeks to celebrate the planet and educate Texans on the many ways we can protect our environment. EDTx provides eco-friendly family activities like tree climbing, arts and crafts, live music, enlightening talks, hands-on workshops and much more. All weekend long, EDTx’s Eco Expo – the largest public exhibition of environmental initiatives in the nation – showcases businesses, nonproﬁts, academic institutions and governmental organizations that are

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KNOW IT ALL active in ﬁelds such as conservation, recycling and transportation. Friday’s programming will also include the ﬁrst annual Eco-Conference designed to engage civic and business leaders in presentations, meetings and discussions about green living and a green economy in North Texas. Visit website for complete lineup and hours. Fair Park, 3939 Grand Avenue, Dallas, 214310-1200, earthdaytx.org.

MOM & SON OVERNIGHT Fri-5:30pm-Sat 7:30am. Moms grab the sleeping bags, cot, blow-up mattress and anything else you need to be comfy for a night with your son at Cliff Nelson. The night will be ﬁlled with dinner, games with friendly mom & son competitions, crafts and more for you and the most important ‘man’ in your life! Let the games begin! Pre-registration is required. All ages are welcome, $12 per person. Cliff Nelson Recreation Center, 4600 W Bardin Rd., Arlington, 817-561-2819.

PARENTS NIGHT OUT AT SUNSHINE GLAZE 5:30-8:30pm. Parents enjoy your night out while the kids make their own glass fusion ladybug night light! Pizza will be served! $30 per child. Reservations required. Sunshine Glaze, 405 N Carroll Ave., Southlake, 817-424-1417, www.sunshineglaze.com.

SAT 25 FREE PSAT PRACTICE TEST FROM KAPLAN 10:30am-1:30pm. See how you might score on the new PSAT that will be administered for the ﬁrst time in October 2015. Free. Grapevine Library Program Room, 1201 Municipal Way, Grapevine, 817-410-3405.

NORTH TEXAS CAKE SHOW 2015 Sat. & Sun. 10am-5pm Competitions! Demonstrations! Classes! Shopping! Raffles! Sunday, April 26 – Cake Show / Classes Saturday, April 25 – Classes only. General Admission: $7 per person. Children 12 and under free with adult Richardson Civic Center, 411 W. Arapaho Road, Richardson, www. northtexascakeshow.com.

SPRING FESTIVAL IN THE JAPANESE GARDEN Sat 10am-5pm & Sun 11am-5pm. Stroll along the meandering paths of the beautifully-landscaped Japanese

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Garden as you listen to the sounds of koto music and taiko drumming. Marvel as you watch the graceful Sakura Dancers, the deft use of Japanese swords, and the demonstration of martial arts. Participate in the tea ceremony, peruse the bonsai and ikebana exhibits, treat yourself to reiki relaxation techniques, admire the works of watercolor artists, and shop among vendors selling jewelry, art work, and gifts. Children’s activities included. Enjoy culinary delights in the food court and shop in the gift store that features Japanese tea sets, sake sets, toys and books. ADMISSION: $6.00 for adults; $3.00 for children 4-12; children under 4 admitted free. Members of the Fort Worth Botanical Society are free. Fort Worth Botanic Garden Conservatory, 3220 Botanic Garden Boulevard, Fort Worth, 817871-7685, www.fwbg.org.

CANVAS & COCKTAILS CLASS AT SUNSHINE GLAZE 6:30-8:30pm. Learn step by step how to paint our romantic “An Evening in Paris”. BYOB! Adults & mature teens only. $35 per person. Reservations Required. Sunshine Glaze, 405 N. Carroll Ave., Southlake, 817-424-1417, www.sunshineglaze.com.

SUN 26 SPRING FAIR OF WEST PLANO 11am-5pm. Come shop, eat and have fun at this free family event with shopping booths, spring ﬂower sale, kids petting zoo, food trucks, bounce houses, rock climbing wall, face painting, arts & crafts and more. Congregation Anshai Torah, 5501 West Parker Road (next to Plano West High School), www. springfairwestplano.com. See ad in this issue.

TUE 28 GRAPEVINE FAITH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE 7-8pm. Private school for preschool – 12th grade. Details& Registration online: GrapevineFaith.com. Grapevine Faith Christian School, 729 E. Dallas Rd, Grapevine, grapevinefaith.com.

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

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KNOW IT ALL Septiembre 2014 | G R AT I S

Una publicación para informar, ayudar e inspirar a familias Latinas

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Pregúntale... al pediatra

Mes de la Herencia Hispana ¿Cómo lo celebras?

GRATIS Llévala contigo

¡Vamos a cocinar!

Las confesiones de una mamá

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Comparte tus recetas familia

WED 29 TEXAS RANGERS VS. SEATTLE MARINERS 7:05pm. Dollar Hot Dog Night & Autograph Wednesday. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, rangers. mlb.com.

THU 30 LADIES NIGHT AT SUNSHINE GLAZE 6-9pm. Ladies enjoy free studio fees on ceramic painting plus 20% off mosaics & glass fusion. BYOB. Sunshine Glaze, 405 N Carroll, Southlake, 817424-1417, www.sunshineglaze.com.

COMING SOON… MAY 2

4TH ANNUAL MOTHERHOOD MATTERS Pregnancy Expo presented by Wings for Wellness 10am-2pm. Great resources for new and expectant moms with 50 plus exhibitors like pregnancy/baby photography, pre/postnatal massage, nursery design, mommy jewelry and more. Educational seminars include Infant CPR, Car Seat Safety, Postpartum Depression, Beneﬁts of Exercise during and after Pregnancy, and Coping with an Identity Crisis as a New Mom. Plus door prizes and giveaways. Richardson Civic Center, Grand Hall, 411 W. Arapaho Rd, Richardson. Wingsforwellness.org. See ad in this issue.

JUN 8 - 11 ERIC BELL SOCCER ACADEMY AT TCU. Half-day & full day camp options available. Additional day camp dates are June 15-18. Residential camp dates for

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youth elite, college ID and goalkeepers are July 16-19. For more info and to register, visit www.ericbellsocceracademy.com. See ad in this issue.

JUN 8 - 12 KIMBELL SUMMER CAMP 1-4pm. Children ages 6-12 explore ancient cultures with group activities and creative studio-art projects. Another camp is scheduled for Jun 15-19. Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth, kimbellart.org. Space is limited. To register, call 817-332-8451 ext 351. See ad in this issue.

JUN 8 - 12 SUMMER CHESS CAMP AT UT DALLAS Join beginner, intermediate or advanced chess classes for ages 7-14. 9am-noon or 1-4pm and extended playing classes available. Other sessions June 15-19, July 13-17 and July 20-24. Register at www.utdallas.edu/ chess. For more info, call 972-8834899 or email james.stallings@utdallas. edu. See ad in this issue.

JUN 8 - AUG 14 IRVING ARTS CENTER’S STEAM POWERED WEEKLY ART ADVENTURE CAMPS Explore the exciting ways that Science, Technology, Engineering, ART and Math collide in 14 camps for ages 4-18. 333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving. To register, call 972-252-2787 or visit IrvingArtsCenter.com. See ad in this issue.

JUN 9 - JUL 9 TCU BASEBALL CAMP: ALL-STAR DAY CAMPS For ages 6-14. Camp 1 is 6/9-6/12; Camp 2 is 6/15-6/18; Camp 3 is 6/22-

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KNOW IT ALL 6/25; and Camp 4 is 7/6-7/9. For more info and to sign up, visit www.tcubaseballcamps.com. See ad in this issue.

JUN 9 - AUG 11 SUMMER ART CAMP AT SUNSHINE GLAZE CREATIVE STUDIO Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-3pm. Advanced reservations required. 405 N. Carroll Ave., Southlake 817-424-1417 www.SunshineGlaze.com. See ad in this issue.

JUL 13 - 16 & JUL 20 - 23 SUMMER CAMP AT FIRST PRESBYTERIAN PRESCHOOL GRAPEVINE Call the school or visit us online for more information. 1002 N. Park Blvd.,

Grapevine 817-488-8526 www.fpcgv. org/preschool. See ad in this issue.

JUL 20 - 24 TEEN ARTIST WORKSHOP 1-4pm. Artist Devon Nowlin will lead participants in an art immersion program inspired by masterpieces from the National Galleries of Scotland. Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth, kimbellart.org. Space is limited. To register, call 817-332-8451 ext 351. See ad in this issue.

AUG 14 - 16 TCU BASEBALL SUMMER PROSPECT SHOWCASE CAMP For high school ages only. For more infomation and to sign up, visit www. tcubaseballcamps.com. See ad in this issue.

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.

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3-5 pounds weight loss per week typical!

story times ARLINGTON CENTRAL BRANCH 101 East Abram St., 817-459-6900

Safe & Quick

WEIGHT LOSS!

Mon - Toddler Time 10am, ages 2-3; Bouncing Babies 11am, ages 0-2. Tue - Family Story Time 6:30pm, all ages. Wed - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-7.

LAKE ARLINGTON BRANCH 4000 West Green Oaks Blvd. 817-478-3762

Free Support with Registered and Licensed Dietitian NO PROGRAM FEES!

MEDIC ALLY AP ONLINE WEIGHT PROVED LOSS PLAN

Jump Start Your Weight Loss! 214-476-2715

Wed - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 2-3; Bouncing Babies 11:15am, ages 0-2. Thur Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-7.

NORTHEAST BRANCH 1905 Brown Blvd., 817-277-5573

GRAPEVINE PUBLIC LIBRARY 1201 Municipal Way, 817-410-3405

Tue - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-7.

WOODLAND WEST BRANCH 2837 West Park Row Dr. 817-277-5265

SOUTHEAST BRANCH 900 S.E. Green Oaks Blvd. 817-459-6395

www.mecaldwell.tsfl.com

Wed - Preschool Storytime 10:30am, ages 3-7. Fri - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 2-3; Bouncing Babies 11:15am, ages 0-2. 2nd Sat Only - Family Story Time 10:30am, all ages.

SOUTHWEST BRANCH 3311 S.W. Green Oaks Blvd. 817-459-6386

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Tue - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-7. Thur - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 18mos3yrs; Bouncing Babies 11:15am, ages 0-2.

A magazine to inform, direct and inspire Latino families Enero 2015 | GRATUITA

Una publicación para informar, ayudar e inspirar a a las familias Latinas

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¿Escuela privada? Prepárate para aprender Madre agotada obtiene respuestas

sábelo todo Calendario de eventos

GRATUIT A Llévala contigo

EAST BRANCH 1624 New York Ave., 817-275-3321 Mon - Wee Reads - Bilingual 10:30am, ages 3-4.

BEDFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY 2424 Forest Ridge Dr., 817-952-2350 Registration is required for BabyGarden Story Times only. Tues - The Story Spot 10:15 & 11am, ages 2 and up. Thur - BabyGarden Sprouts Story Time 10:10am, pre-walkers; BabyGarden Peapods Story Time 10:50am, walkers (0-1yr); Twosees Story Time 11:45am, ages 2-3. 4th Fri Only - Family Fun Friday 3:45pm, all ages.

COLLEYVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY 110 Main St., 817-503-1150

Hispanics are the cornerstone of future growth. 40

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EULESS PUBLIC LIBRARY 201 N. Ector Dr., 817-685-1493 Tue - Lapsit 10:30am, non-walker babies; Preschool Story Time 11am, ages 3-5. Wed Preschool Story Time 11am, ages 3-5. Thur - Toddler Time 10:30am, ages 12-36mos; Preschool Story Time 11am; Family Story Time 6:30pm, all ages.

Tue - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 2-3; Bouncing Babies 11:15am, ages 0-2. Wed Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-7.

Call today to see if this plan is right for you!

& Read; 10:15 am; ages 3; Thur - Tiny Treasures 10:15 am; 0-17 months; Tiny Treasures 11:00 am; 0-17 months; Story Playhouse Early Elementary 4:00pm; grades K-2 Rotates every other week; Story Playhouse Upper Elementary 4:00pm; grades 3-5 Rotates every other week

LAST WEEK OF STORY TIMES IS WEEK OF APRIL 6-11 Mon - Especially for 3’s; 10:15 am; age 3; Preschool Story Time; 10:15 am; ages 4 – 5; Home 2 Library Connection: Early Elementary; 2:00 Rotates every other week; Home 2 Library Connection: Upper Elementary; 2:00 Rotates every other week; Snacks and Stories; 4:00; K-2; Adventure Kidz 4:00pm; grades 3-5; Tue - Toddler Tales; 10:15 am; ages 18 - 36 months; Toddler Tales; 11:15 am; ages 18 - 36 months; Preschool Story Time; 10:15 am; ages 4 – 5; Wed - Toddler Tales; 10:15 am; ages 18 - 36 months; Shake, Rattle

APRIL 2015 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Suburban Parent!

Tue - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 18-36 mos; Preschool Story Time 10:45am, ages 3-5. Wed - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 18-36 mos, Preschool Story Time 10:45am, ages 3-5. Thur - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 18-36 mos; Preschool Story Time 10:45am, ages 3-5.

HURST PUBLIC LIBRARY 901 Precinct Line Rd. 817-788-7300 Mon - Toddler Time 10am, ages 1-3. Tue Story Time 10:45am, ages 3-6. Thur - Toddler Time 10am, ages 1-3

KELLER PUBLIC LIBRARY 640 Johnson Rd., 817-743-4840 Mon - Spanish Storytime 11am; Family Storytime 6pm, all ages. Tue - Preschoolers 10:15am, ages 3-6; Baby Time (registration required) 11am, ages 0-18 mos; Toddlers 11:30am, ages 1836 mos. Wed - Preschoolers 10:15am, ages 3-6; Baby Time (registration required) 11am, ages 0-18 mos; Toddlers 11:30am, ages 18-36 mos. Sat - Preschoolers 12:15pm, ages 3-6; Baby Time (registration required) 1pm, ages 0-18 mos; Toddlers 1:30pm, ages 18-36 mos.

MANSFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY 104 S. Wisteria, 817-473-4391 Tue - Story Time for Tots 10:30am, ages 0-3 Wed - Listeners Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-5. Thur - Bilingual Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-5 Fri - Baby Story Time 10:30am.

NORTH RICHLAND HILLS PUBLIC LIBRARY 9015 Grand Ave., 817-427-6800 Tue - Toddler Time 10am, ages 18-36 mos., Sunset Story Time 7:00pm. Wed - Story Time 10:15 & 11:15am, ages 3-6.

ROANOKE PUBLIC LIBRARY 308 S. Walnut, 817-491-2691 Mon - Story Time at McDonald’s (1100 N. Hwy. 377) 10:45am, all ages. Tue - Bedtime Story Time 7pm, all ages. Fri - Story Time with Katy Kitten 10:30am, all ages.

SOUTHLAKE PUBLIC LIBRARY 1400 Main St., 817-748-8243 Tue - Lap Sit Story Time 10am, infants; Toddler Time 10:45am, ages 2-3; Preschool 11:30am, ages 4-5. Wed - Mother Goose Story Time 10am, ages 1-2; Toddler Time 10:45am, ages 2-3; Preschool Story Time 11:30am, ages 4-5.

All Storytimes are FREE. Listed are the regularly scheduled storytimes. Call to conﬁrm as schedules are subject to change.

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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.

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SP SAVINGS PAGES

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

WHAT DOES A NOSEY PEPPER DO?

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU EAT YEAST AND SHOE POLISH?

GETS JALAPENO BUSINESS!

EVERY MORNING YOU’LL RISE AND SHINE! Source: www.jokes4us.com

― LILLY PULITZER

YOU CAN’T TUNA FISH!

Bird ‘Tweets’

DIY BIRDSEED ORNAMENT

oot.com Photo: www.bargainh

DESPITE THE FORECAST, LIVE LIKE IT’S

Because birds are already shopping around for nest sites, early spring is a good time to make backyard feeders, so they can have food close to home!

MAKE IT: Dissolve a packet of Knox in 1/4 c. of water, YOU’LL NEED:

LOL WITH JAMES ESTES!

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A GUITAR AND A FISH?

3/4 c. Birdseed 1 small packet of Knox gelatin Twine, raffia or wire for hanger (don’t use bright colored ribbon, it scares the birds away) S Shaped cookie cutter, or a mold of some sort 1/4 c. water Makes 1 Large hanging feeder or 2 med/small size

bring to simmer and stir until dissolved. Let cool slightly. Add 3/4 c. bird seed and mix very well until seeds are coated. There should be no liquid, add a little more seed if needed. Spoon the seeds into a mold, ﬁlling it half way up, and pressing down to make sure it is well packed. Lay tied twine on top of the pressed seed, add the rest of the seed so twine is fully covered. Freeze for a few hours and then unmold the form. Let it dry out for a few days … ﬂipping it so it drys out completely on both sides and all the way through. You want it really hard and totally dried out so you can hang it in your tree. Position it in a place where birds can rest and eat.

GOTTA LOVE ‘EM I was reading some nature stories to my 4 year old, and asked him if he knew that owls were nocturnal. He replied, “yeeessss, everyone knows that owls are not turtles! GRACIE, MOM OF ONE FUNNY BOY

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

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BACKTALK { BY KEN SWARNER }

MY POOR WIFE

t’s usually about this time of year— as my wife is assessing all of the

while we were ﬁrst dating. She may have been under the illusion I was

needed projects around the house for this spring and summer— that

handy because I MAY HAVE bragged a little about my background...

I wonder: If my wife had to do it all over again, would she have rather

and because I owned a really nice tool belt. But, let’s be honest here.

married a handy husband?

Societal expectations dictate that men are supposed to be handy,

It can’t be easy for her being married to me. Our front door hasn’t

therefore I only told her (lied) I remodeled homes during summer breaks

closed correctly in years. In the summer the latch doesn’t hold and the slightest breeze pushes the door open...which gives our indoor cat the

because of gender pressure. Once we tied the knot, I did my best to keep up the ruse and, er,

chance to make her get-away...and concludes with my wife chasing the

tie a good knot...but soon my little white lie was out on the sawhorse.

cat down the street in her bare feet yelling “Bootsy, come back— you’re

I admitted to her that I stretched the truth a little about my carpentry

making mommy very upset!”

skills. She said she started to ﬁgure that out on her own when I told the

In the winter the door swells or something (if I were handy I’d know), which means the deadbolt won’t turn right without me ﬁrst muscling the door knob up and white-knuckling the lock into place. I’m the only one in the house who can do this intricate dance of sorts. A handy guy would know how to correct this problem.

clerk at the hardware store that there was a big mistake in lumber— that “all of the 2x4’s in the bin were actually eight feet long, not four.” But that’s not the end of our sad little home repair story. While, after 18 years of marriage my wife has come to accept (the best she can) my lack of handiness, I have not...and not because of societal pressures, but

A rich guy would pay someone to ﬁx it. My wife is left with me...the guy yelling in the summer “Grab the cat!” and in the winter, shouting, “Someone bring daddy the Ben Gay!” It has been difficult for my wife to come to terms with exactly how

male pride –or, in more other words, stupidity...or, to put it another way, I try to ﬁx things even though I don’t have a clue what I am doing. I’ll spare you the gory details, only to say that I truly believe that one of these days I am going to get one of my repair jobs right.

unhandy I am. When ﬁrst married,

And now I abruptly reach the end

I think she thought I was faking my

of this month’s column. Alas, on this

home repair ignorance. She didn’t believe I couldn’t install a ceiling fan or stop the toilet from humming doe- ray-me whenever it ﬂushed. I admit this MIGHT be because I misrepresented myself on a few occasions

instead, I blame genetic predisposition, or in other words,

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subject, I don’t have a ﬁnal fancy or clever turn of phrase— a moral or guiding thought— nor any hot water working in my house— but I do have a request... Please pray for my wife. SP