MAY 2016 | FREE
+ las colinas
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IRVING | LAS COLINAS | VALLEY RANCH
5 FOSTER CARE MISCONCEPTIONS EXPLAINED WOMEN'S HEALTH ISSUE
IT’S ALL HAPPENING THIS SUMMER SEE OUR CAMP DIRECTORY INSIDE
THE MOTHER’S DAY GIFT A STORY
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 Patrick Hempfing Ken Swarner
CALENDAR EDITOR Lara Haynes
COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Misty Stagnone Photography mistystagnonephotography.com
AD DESIGNERS Blake Boring Fran Sherman So Hee Lee Won
ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Denise Miller Julie Lesser Williams
AD COORDINATOR/ DISTRIBUTION Francie Morin francie@suburbanparent.com
ACCOUNTING Carrie Vincent carrie@suburbanparent.com
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 daily. But we know in our hearts that all this is accomplished by the grace of God. What we don’t always do is make time to take care of ourselves. There are so many topics about women’s health. As I write this I am 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 with God. Thank him for the morning sunrise, or for your child’s amazing laughter.
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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.
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EDITORIAL editor@suburbanparent.com
PHONE/MAIL 972.887.7779 8344 Sterling Street Irving, Texas 75063
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Kaiden is an incredibly loving son and big brother. He is obsessed with being outdoors, construction equipment, fire trucks, and cooking for his parents in his play kitchen. He prefers eating out at restaurants with open kitchens. When he grows up, he wants to be a “cooker man” (aka chef).
MAY 2016 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Irving 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 @
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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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MOMENTS { BY PATRICK HEMPFING }
SPOKEN WORDS
I
“
t’s not easy being a parent. In fact, sometimes it’s downright frustrating, like
with my classmates when I told my teacher, “That was fun. I’d do that again.”
when you have to correct your child for the same behavior over and over.”
I’ve never won an award for being a quick learner, but I did realize at that point
These were the opening sentences for the first Mother’s Day column
I wrote. It’s been three years and I still feel the same. Of course, there are
two sides to every story. It’s not easy being a child, either. In fact, sometimes it’s downright frustrating, like when your parents continue to nag you over and over. I’m sure all parents have given the “think before you speak” speech. Jessie, my ten-year-old daughter, has heard this speech a few times, with
I had just forced Mrs. Dowd to intensify my training. “Okay then. The next time we have recess, you can stay in to work and then go out with the second-grade class for their recess.”
By that point in time, the light bulb in my brain flickered with the notion that maybe I should keep my smart mouth shut.
a special emphasis on “It’s not just what you say, but how you say it.” But,
day, because my stomach felt like it had taken a
back words or deliver them over with a different tone.
direct hit from a dodge ball. Somehow, though, I
Prior to a recent corrective-action discussion (Jessie calls them lectures), I had a flashback to my 6th grade days. I hadn’t thought about this story in years – maybe I blocked it out. But it’s a perfect story of a 12-year-old boy not learning the “think before you speak” rule. After this experience, though, I had a much firmer grasp of the concept. Near the end of our school day, we were supposed to be working. However, the secondgrade class played dodge ball in the
kept it together until I made it home. Then I cried. During supper that evening, more tears flowed as I told my parents what happened and begged them to, “Please talk to my teacher so she doesn’t make me play with the second graders again.” Of course, in my heart I knew my parents would never try to get me out of a punishment I richly deserved (and they didn’t). Luckily for me, Mrs. Dowd never followed through on her
courtyard outside our window. The
plan, and I gained a valuable lesson on the line between humor
teacher, Mrs. Dowd, instructed
and disrespect. It seems obvious, but we all have to learn the
us to focus on our work, not the
importance of the timing, tone, and content of our words, and
second graders. I’m not sure what
that sometimes silence is golden. I try to share this with Jessie
the teacher said next, but smart-alecky
to spare her the pain of learning it the hard way like I did.
me, trying to get a laugh, raised my
Jessie is likely in for more lectures in the tween and teen
hand and said, “I’ll go out and play with them.”
years ahead. I’ll try to deliver them without nagging, but I’m
Needless to say, my response didn’t sit well
likely to fail. Remember, I’m not a quick learner. As often as
with Mrs. Dowd. She gave me two choices,
I can, though, I’ll share my own childhood experiences so
march down to the principal’s office or head outside to play with the second graders. Since playing sounded much better than bending over and grabbing my ankles, as principals spanked during my school years, I chose dodge ball.
she’ll know I was once in her shoes. I hope she’ll listen to my carefully spoken words. Thanks to the parents who teach their children all kinds of lessons, sometimes repeatedly. May all of us remember to conclude
I won’t forget my embarrassment when I had
our corrective-action discussions with three
to explain to the second-grade teacher why I
important words that apply to every lecture
crashed her students’ game of dodge ball.
topic, “I love you.”
When second-grade recess ended, I walked back into my classroom. Had I learned my lesson? I’m sure I was trying to save face
FOLLOW PATRICK @PatrickHempfing
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It’s good this happened near the end of the school
whether you’re a kid or an adult, we’ve all been there, wishing we could take
irving parent
Until next month, remember to cherish the moments. Happy Mother’s Day! SP
This story is in Patrick’s first book, MoMENts: A Dad Holds On. The book compiles favorite stories and new material and is scheduled for release on Amazon.com on May 1. A great gift for Mother’s Day. www.facebook.com/patricklhempfing
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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 Irving 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
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KNOW IT ALL { YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR }
MAY 2016 SUN 1 SCARBOROUGH RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL 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.
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, 214-691-7200, 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.
EXHIBIT: WILL MOSES: AMERICAN FOLK ARTIST Runs through June 26. Free and open to the public. Gallery Admission is FREE. Gallery Hours: Mon, Tues, Wed and Fri: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday: 1-5 p.m. Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving, 972-252-7558, irvingartscenter.com.
DENTON ARTS & JAZZ FESTIVAL 11am-9pm. Great music, good food, beautiful art and many activities are planned for the whole family in Denton,
= ADVERTISER
TEXAS RANGERS VS. LOS ANGELES ANGELS
and soothing environment for your mind, body and soul. Registration deadline is Monday, May 2. Space is limited. Cost is $5 per person; childcare will be available for an additional $2. There will be two different sessions, 11am-1pm & 6-8pm. Georgia Farrow Recreation Center, 530 Davis Drive, Irving, 972-721-2519.
2:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, texas.rangers.mlb.com.
AUTHOR VISIT:AMY TINTERA
where FUN IS THE THING and JAZZ IS KING! Fun for the whole family. Quakertown Park, 321 East McKinney St., Denton, 940-565-0931, www.dentonjazzfest.com.
FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. CORPUS CHRISTI 4:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200, ridersbaseball.com.
MON 2 FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. CORPUS CHRISTI 7:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-731-9200, ridersbaseball.com.
THU 5 JUMPSTART STORIES & ART: “MOMS AREAMAZING!” 10am. Mothers are the inspiration for this month’s stories and art. Following the story, kids create a take-home art project and then browse the galleries Ages 2 and up. All supplies provided. Call 972-252-2787 to pre-register groups of 10 or more. Irving Arts Center, 3333 N MacArthur Blvd., Irving, 972-252-2787, irvingartscenter.com.
MOTHER’S DAY PAMPERING Two times to choose from: 11am-1pm & 6-8pm. Mothers of all ages can treat themselves to a day of pampering and light snacks. We will provide a relaxing
7-9pm. Join us in celebrating Texas author Amy Tintera’s newest novel “Ruined”, the first book in a fantasy trilogy featuring a butt-kicking heroine, a cute prince, and lots of action. Amy will be joined in conversation with bestselling author Julie Murphy. Audience Q&A and book signing will follow the discussion. South Irving Library, Meeting Room #1, 601 Schulze Drive, Irving, 972-721-2606.
THE AWAKENED FAMILY: SUPERCHARGING THE PARENT/ CHILD RELATIONSHIP 7-9pm. You Are Invited to meet and hear Dr. Shefali Tsabary, Ph.D. Clinical Psychologist & Author 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 West, Dallas, 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 972-620-3747 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, 972-6203747, thefirehousetheatre.com.
FRI 6 VINTAGE MARKET DAYS Friday & Saturday 9am-4pm. Mark your calendars for the next Vintage Market Days® in McKinney. Named one of Country Living magazines “7 Flea Markets & Barn Sales You Won’t Want To Miss in 2015”! Grab your girlfriends or your husband & join us for a weekend of the very best of Vintage vendors from across the United States. We bring vendors who are unique to Vintage Market Days. VMD is an upscale vintage-inspired indoor/ open air market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home decor, outdoor furnishings, consumable yummies, seasonal plantings & a little more. Shopping, live music, yummy food. We love bringing the Vintage Experience® to Texas! Myers Park & Event Center, 7117 County Road 166, McKinney.
SAT 7 FARMERS BRANCH MARKETGRAND 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
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KNOW IT ALL 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.
pizza and soda. This event is open to all middle and high school students. Free admission with valid IPAR card or school ID. Lively Pointe Youth Center, 909 N. O’Connor Road, Irving, 972721-8090.
FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. MIDLAND 7:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-7319200, ridersbaseball.com.
CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATION 10am-4pm Residents are invited to participate in this free, family event that provides awareness and education to the community through music, art, food and multi-cultural experiences. Activities will include vendor exhibits, children’s activities and Mexican folklóric dance performances. Free admission. Senter Park Recreation Center, 901 S. Senter Street, Irving, 972-721-2641.
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY 11am-1pm. Join West Irving Library for the 15th anniversary of this celebration of comic books! West Irving Library, 4444 W. Rochelle Road, Irving, 972721-2691.
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 for festival goers, 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 on this urban block of Downtown, Arlington. Arlington Animal Services will be on hand with their mobile adoption unit. Please help us place as many pups as possible. This event is FREE and open to the public.506 E. Main Street, Arlington.
CLASSIC CAR CRUISE IN 6-9pm. Come on out, grab a milkshake at Big State Fountain Grill and admire the beautiful iron! Big State Fountain Grill, 100 East Irving Blvd, Irving, 214-3075000, www.bigstatefountaingrill.com.
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SUN 8 FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. MIDLAND 4:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-7319200, ridersbaseball.com.
MOTHER’S DAY CONCERT AND PICNIC 6-8pm. Celebrate Mother’s Day with family and friends on the Museum grounds and beautiful Pearl Perry Gravley Park while listening to the “Downtown String Band” play bluegrass, traditional acoustic, and swing music from the front porch of the historic home. They will have your toes tapping and the kids dancing along with the fiddle and banjo! Bring a picnic basket, blankets, and lawn chairs. Free ice cream and lemonade will be served, and children can make a card and an old-fashioned handmade gift for mom. Create a theme for your picnic basket and enter the annual Mother’s Day Picnic contest in one of three categories: Best Family, Most Elegant, and Most Creative. Registration for the contest begins and 5pm and judging takes place at 5:45pm with winners announced and prizes awarded at the beginning of the concert. A.W. Perry Homestead Museum, 1509 N. Perry Road, Carrollton, 972-466-6380.
MON 9 FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. MIDLAND 7:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-7319200, ridersbaseball.com.
TEEN JAM
TEXAS RANGERS VS. WHITE SOX
7-11pm. Youth and teens can join us for a late night at Lively Pointe. Enjoy music, games and complimentary
7:05pm-10pm Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington,www.texas. rangers.mlb.com.
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Summer Program 2016
KNOW IT ALL TUE 10 FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. MIDLAND 7:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-7319200, ridersbaseball.com.
TEXAS RANGERS VS. WHITE SOX 7:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, www.texas.rangers. mlb.com.
WED 11 TEXAS RANGERS VS. WHITE SOX 1:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, www.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. 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 TASTE OF IRVING 12-6pm. Taste of Irving is an outdoor festival featuring family-friendly activities and food from a variety of Irving restaurants. With live music, a fun zone, a large craft marketplace, and culinary entertainment, the event offers attractions for all. The highlight of the event are the food samples; each restaurant sells items from their menu for $5 or less! Admission to this festival is free. Free Parking & Event Shuttle: Ranch-
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view High School 8401 E. Valley Ranch Pkwy. Leashed, well-behaved dogs are permitted. Cimarron Park Recreation Center, 201 Red River Trail, Irving. See ad in this issue.
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.
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! The best thing is that they shop for your produce for you; 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. Please wear athletic gear and sunscreen. All participants will be asked to sign a waiver. Water sessions are first-come, first-served 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.
2015
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KNOW IT ALL AUTHOR VISIT: MEG CABOT 3-6pm. You’re invited! Join us for an afternoon princess party with the queen of tween/teen fiction: Meg Cabot, bestselling author of The Princess Diaries! Meg is visiting Irving to celebrate her newest novel Royal Wedding Disaster. Princesses and princes of all ages are welcome! Copies of Meg’s books will be available for purchase, and signing line tickets will be available for pick-up starting Thursday, May 12. South Irving Library, Meeting Room #1, 601 Schulze Drive, Irving, 972-721-2606.
Skill for Life LEARNING
SAFETY
FUN
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.
MON 16 IRVING HISPANIC CHAMBER PRESENTS 2ND ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC
GUARDIAN SWIM SCHOOL 1033 KINWEST PARKWAY IRVING, TX 75063
We offer -
ING OPEN AY! IN M
• • • • •
2 heated indoor swimming pools Year round operations Programs for all ages Open swim time Weekend Private parties
Tee Time is 12:30. $125/individual or $500/team. Contact the Chamber for more details. Hackberry Creek Country Club, 1901 W Royal Lane, Irving, 972-721-2200, irvinghcc.com. See ad in this issue.
REGISTRATION BEGINS FOR CAMP RIO 2016 AT IRVING GYMNASTICS Join us for a summer camp filled with Olympic fun including gymnastics, Olympic sports, obstacle courses, swim lessons, arts & crafts and more. Camp runs June 6- Aug 26. Irving Gymnastics, 900 N. O’Connor, Irving, 972-254-1914, www.irvinggymnastics.net. See ad in this issue.
AUTHOR VISIT: JENNY MARTIN-MARKED LAUNCH PARTY 7-9pm. Join the library for the launch of local author Jenny Martin’s novel Marked, the sequel to her thrilling debut Tracked! Refreshments, book sales, and author signing will follow. South Irving Library, Meeting Room #1, 601 Schulze Drive, Irving, 972-721-2606.
WED 18 SYMPHONIC BLAST, LONE STAR YOUTH ORCHESTRA 7:30pm. The Lone Star Youth Orchestra closes the 2015-2016 Season with
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a blast through time with historic composers such as Bach, Berlioz, and Tchaikovsky. The program will also feature the 1st place winner of the Lone Star Youth Orchestra’s annual Concerto Competition, and celebrate the work of our graduating seniors. Tickets $6.50 & $13.50. Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving, 972-252-2787, irvingartscenter.com.
THU 19 AUTHOR VISIT: JOHN COREY WHALEY-HIGHLY ILLOGICAL BEHAVIOR BOOK TOUR 7-9pm. Join us for an evening with award-winning author John Corey Whaley in conversation with NYT bestselling author Julie Murphy. Refreshments, book sales, and author signing will follow. “Readers will easily come to care about these bright, wonderfully nerdy, flawed characters.”—Kirkus Reviews. South Irving Library, Meeting Room #1, 601 Schulze Drive, Irving, 972-721-2606.
FRI 20 LET’S LIVE HEALTHY EXPO 9am-12pm Join us for new ideas and information on health related issues, exercise and living life to the fullest. Over 40 vendors will be onsite to provide a wealth of information and answers to issues common among seniors. Door prizes will be awarded. Free. Heritage Senior Center, 200 S. Jefferson Street, Irving, 972-721-2496.
WILDFLOWER ARTS & MUSIC FESTIVAL Friday 6pm-midnight, Saturday 11am-midnight & 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 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, presented by Bank of the West, 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
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KNOW IT ALL a.m.-6 p.m. Guests will enjoy three full days of family-friendly festival fun and complimentary shuttles. Main Street Grapevine, 1452 Hughes Road, Grapevine, grapevinetexasusa.com/ main-street-fest/information.
LATE NIGHTS AT THE DMA 6pm-12am. Join us on the third Friday of each month, when the Museum is open until midnight. Each Late Night offers hundreds of experiences for visitors of all ages with performances, concerts, readings, film screenings, tours, talks, family programs, and more! Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 North Harwood Street, Dallas, dma.org.
‘TIL MIDNIGHT AT THE NASHER 6pm-12am. The Nasher Sculpture Garden is a rare gem any old time of the year, but on the third Friday of every month it transforms into the city’s most bucolic outdoor concert and film screening venue. Admission is FREE, but reservations for picnic dining must be made in advance. Beat the deadline by requesting your space online. Nasher Sculpture Garden, 2001 Flora Street, Dallas, 214-242-5100, www. nashersculpturecenter.org.
FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. SAN ANTONIO 7:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-7319200, ridersbaseball.com.
SAT 21 WALK TO CURE ARTHRITIS 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.
NORTH TEXAS VINTAGE BIKE SWAP MEET 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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ART EXTRAVAGANZA 10am-12pm. Children ages 12 and under will participate in an exciting community art project. All supplies and light refreshments will be provided. Cost is $10 per person. Registration deadline is May 12. Lee Park Recreation Center, 3000 Pamela Drive, Irving, 972-721-2508.
FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. SAN ANTONIO 7:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-7319200, ridersbaseball.com.
SUN 22 FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. SAN ANTONIO 4:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-7319200, ridersbaseball.com.
MON 23 FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. SAN ANTONIO 11:05am. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-7319200, 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 & 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.
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KNOW IT ALL the best
summer
2016
camps
GREENHILL SCHOOL SUMMER ON THE HILL www.greenhill.org/summer See ad on p. 31 IRVING ARTS CENTER 972-252-2787 • www.irvingartscenter.com See ad on p. 22 IRVING GYMNASTICS 972-254-1914 • www.irvinggymnastics.net See ad on p. 20 KINWEST MONTESSORI ACADEMY 972-401-8311 • www.kinwestmontessori.com See ad on p. 24 MISS BLOOMINGDALE’S ACADEMY 972-869-9145 • www.missbloomingdales.com See ad on p. 7 SAFESPLASH SWIM SCHOOL 844-KID-SWIM • www.safesplash.com See ad on p. 30 UTD CHESS CAMP 972-883-4899 • www.utdallas.edu/chess See ad on p. 34
See complete 2016 Camp Directory online @ suburbanparent.com
FRI 27
SUN 29
TEXAS RANGERS VS. PIRATES
TEXAS RANGERS VS. PIRATES
7:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, texas.rangers.mlb.com.
2:05pm. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, texas.rangers.mlb.com.
SAT 28
TUE 31
THAI CULTURE & FOOD FESTIVAL 2016
GREENHILL SCHOOL SUMMER ON THE HILL
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.
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Runs May 31 through Aug. 12. Select from an extraordinary variety of camps for boys and girls, ages 3-18. More info, visit www.greenhill.org/summer. See ad in this issue. Greenhill School, 4141 Spring Valley Road, Dallas, www.greenhill.org/summer. See ad in this issue.
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KNOW IT ALL the best
summer
2016
camps
online directory @ suburbanparent.com
FRISCO ROUGH RIDERS VS. TULSA 7:05pm. Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, 972-7319200, 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 11am8pm. 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.
JUNE 5-9 VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL SUBMERGED 9am-12pm. Plymouth Park Baptist Church, 1714 N Story Rd, Irving. Register at www.plymouthpark.org. See ad in this issue.
JUN 6 SUMMER I SESSION BEGINS AT NORTH LAKE COLLEGE Register for classes to start or ad-
vance your career. Summer II session begins July 12; Fall session begins Aug 29. Northlakecollege.edu. See ad in this issue.
JUN 6-10 OAK VIEW BAPTIST CHURCH VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: SUBMERGED 9am-noon. For kids entering kindergarten through those who have completed 5th grade. Free. 1004 S. Story Rd, Irving 972-790-3629, myoakview.org. See ad in this issue.
JUN 6-AUG 12 SUPER HERO ART ADVENTURE CAMPS AT IRVING ARTS CENTER 13 camps for ages 4-16 jammed with adventures in art, theater, and music. 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving 972252-2787 irvingartscenter.com. 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 (9am-noon) and afternoon (1-4pm) plus extended playing classes available. Other camps Jun 20-24, Jul 18-22 & Jul 25-29. Register at 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 & times, confirming with the event venue before going is always a good idea.
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Our Pediatricians Care About You and Your Family 2015
Now Serving the Irving Community in Two Locations!
2 Main Locations
6750 N. MacArthur Blvd. • Ste. 206 2021 N. MacArthur Blvd. • Ste. 250
Irving, Texas Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm We Accept All Major Insurance Plans
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972-253-4300
www.mscitx.com
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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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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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Babysitters of Dallas
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37
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
38
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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2015