Suburban Parent: North Dallas

MAY 2015 | FREE suburbanparent.com

PLANO | FRISCO | ALLEN | MCKINNEY | RICHARDSON | WYLIE

WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING

PICTURE OF PARENTING A MOMS PERSPECTIVE

VACATION TEXAS STYLE A TRIP GUIDE

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

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Renée Higgins renee@suburbanparent.com

MARY SHARES COWARDLY LION: “ALL RIGHT, I’LL GO IN THERE FOR DOROTHY. WICKED WITCH OR NO WICKED WITCH, GUARDS OR NO GUARDS, I’LL TEAR THEM APART. I MAY NOT COME OUT ALIVE, BUT I’M GOING IN THERE. THERE’S ONLY ONE THING I WANT YOU FELLOWS TO DO….. TALK ME OUT OF IT!”

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Patrick Hempfing Ken Swarner

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Misty Stagnone Photography mistystagnonephotography.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 Francie Morin francie@suburbanparent.com

ACCOUNTING Carrie Vincent carrie@suburbanparent.com

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EDITORIAL editor@suburbanparent.com

PHONE/MAIL 972.887.7779 8344 Sterling Street Irving, Texas 75063

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.

RECOGNIZING COURAGE

W

hat does a mother recognize early on in their child’s life? Their character! We often hear moms talking about how different their children are; a bookworm, or an athlete, shy or outgoing. We can see qualities in our kids that we hold in our hearts too.

My daughter came to me recently and told me that her father told her she had courage. I looked at her and said, “You do have courage, and you‘ve had courage since you were very little.” Looking a bit quizitive, I told her what her dad and I see in her is something from within.

I told her about the first time I dropped her off at pre-school. She had courage; I had angst. Watching from the window, I witnessed her approach a child who was crying; she touched them and smiled. She was nearing 3 years old. She asked “how is that courage?” I reminded her that she could have cried too.

I told her that courage is often associated with soldiers, police officers, fire fighters, and astronauts.

These people are courageous, but it also takes courage to be good and moral. So we talked about how it takes courage to do the right thing when others choose a different path or to do something you’ve never done. Courage isn’t the absence of fear, but to act with confidence and conviction when it’s required. This, (her dad and I) have witnessed time and time again. We are involved in several organizations; I watched as she walked into a room with other girls she did not know (yet) with courage; we have heard her talking to someone and witnessing (kindly) that what they had done was wrong. She has even come to us to report her own bad behavior (of sorts). This takes courage; courage to say “I was wrong” or “you were right!”

I can remember several years ago, at Christmas time, I saw Caroline (11yrs) walk across the street to talk to our neighbor. I watched as she BE OF GOOD approached her with confidence. Now, Nancy was a good neighbor, but COURAGE, AND HE Caroline had only been in her presence with us, or at Halloween when SHALL STRENGTHEN YOUR HEART, ALL Nancy would be on her doorstep. I never said anything about watching YE THAT HOPE IN and didn’t ask her any questions. But when Christmas morning came I THE LORD. knew what she must have been talking about. She asked Nancy (who — PSALM 31:24 was a quilter) if she could embroider a message on a quilt (a gift from Caroline and Clayton). Her courage to go ask this of our neighbor was amazing. That Christmas present is so incredibly special to me.

More recently, she was challenged too. Her track coach wanted her to run the last race of the day.

Caroline asked if she could be replaced because she was very exhausted. Her coach pushed her a bit and told her that he wanted her to rest for 35 minutes. He reminded her that she was there to win points for her team. Caroline’s response was “okay coach.” She ran the last leg of a 4 x 400 and the team was 25 yards in the rear. Her determination to get those points made her push through her discomfort and run as fast as she could knowing she was not going to win (team placed third).

I told her, “Courage is also about stepping up when needed, because you could have cried.” SP

COVER MODEL Jacob, 7 years Jacob is a truly gifted goofball. He’s a math ninja, winner of art and music awards, and a fast runner who loves life and having fun – especially with his 3 siblings, Lilian (9), Elaina (2) and Michael (8 mos). When he grows up he wants to be a doctor and ski instructor.

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NOW ENROLLING FOR SUMMER AND FALL

• Children study the classical art during the Art Encounter Class • Music • Natural outdoor learning environment • Neighborhood Setting • Science Curriculum in a well equipped Discovery Lab • An open Indoor Gymnasium/Activity Room • iPads in Primary Classrooms • Several extracurricular activities - Art, Computers, Dance, Soccer, Football, Basketball, Gymnastics, Private Piano Lessons etc.

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YOU SHOULD KNOW DISPOSAL DISPLEASING? ELIMINATE ODORS IN DISPOSAL Drop in a cut-up lemon, some salt and a few ice cubes. The lemon takes care of the odor while the ice and salt clean away the residue.

SANITIZE YOUR DISPOSAL

Pour half of a cup of baking soda into the disposal, then add one cup of vinegar. Cover the drain with a plug.

While the baking soda and vinegar are fizzing and cleaning, heat some water to boiling then carefully pour it down the drain. Repeat weakly to maintain an odor free disposal.

WALK THIS WAY The evidence is clear on this! Walking a few times each week can increase the volume of the hippocampus (think long term memory) by 2-percent each year (instead of shrinking) How to do it: Walk for at least 40 minutes three times a week. It takes time, so consider making a commitment to walk this way forever!

PROTECT YOUR FAMILY TIME TO REPLACE YOUR PILLOW? You should wash your pillows twice a year. Down and Fiberfill pillows can be washed in the washer. Wash two pillows at a time to keep the washer balanced in warm water on the gentle cycle. Tumble dry on low heat, fluffing and turning them often. You can’t put foam pillows in the washing machine, but you can spot clean them and tumble them in the dryer on no heat for 20 minutes. If you keep them clean, they should last three years. To test if it’s time to replace your pillow, fold it in half; if it doesn’t spring back, it’s time for a new one.

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A study by the National Fire Protection Association discovered that almost 5 million American homes don’t have any smoke detectors. Yikes! The recommendation is that there is a smoke detector in every bedroom, outside every sleeping area and on each level of the house. So, the average two-story, 3 bedroom house should have at least five. And they should be replaced every 10 years.

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

WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING! Sleeping is the most important activity (yes activity) that we do. Our brain is very active when we are sleeping, and sleeping is crucial to our health and well being. Researchers found that the brain processes complex stimuli during sleep, and uses this information to make decisions while awake.

While you are sleeping the brain forms new memories and consolidates older ones. So it’s helping to cement the new information we recently took in for better recollection later.

Sleep before learning helps prepare the brain to receive new memories, and sleep after learning is important to achieve the “save and file” of new information. So think about what it means when we say “I’m going to sleep on this” before making a decision. Keep in mind, pulling an “all-nighter” to study something could drop your ability to learn the new information by up to 40%. (source:newsinhealth.nih.gov)

QUESTIONS { + PROFESSIONAL ANSWERS }

I S A B E L L A S AY S . . .

Q. I am a new mom and a new “Texan.” I found your publication and love the editorial and appreciate the local resources, I found my new pediatrician right away.

What I need right now are friends! Any suggestions?

A. Thank you! And welcome to Texas. I agree moms need friends and sometimes this can be difficult and oddly, we can feel like an awkward adolescent again! So go ahead and brush up on your friend making skills and arrange to get out and about. A stroller is your first best friend; take to the neighborhood and then venture out to local parks. Also, keep a look out for mom groups; occasionally they post events and meet-ups in our “Know It All” calendars. Not sure what city you are residing in, but I bet you could connect with the Dallas Moms Blog; they have a list Community Playgroups and tons of great ideas, discussions, and well, friendship!

MARTY ASKS...

Q. My child wants the same food every day. He is a bit of a picky eater. Should I be concerned?

M AG G I E , M O M O F 7 Y R . O L D .

Q. Would love to know techniques I can use to help my autistic child in the pool.

Therapy masked as fun!

A. This is not uncommon. Some young ones

A. By adding well planned activities and

may go days, even weeks, where they will only eat one food, in fact, there is a term for this, “food jags.” Although food jags leave parents frustrated, it’s helpful to go ahead and offer his favorite food, but be certain to also include other nutritious foods as well.

This will encourage variety. Also, give the kid kitchen duties! A kitchen stool, a colander, and water to clean veggies may just increase his interest in different foods. If this persists and he starts eliminating more foods or entire food groups you may want to enlist the help of a Registered Dietitian, specializing in pediatric nutrition.

games to your child’s summer routine, you can increase muscle strength, endurance, balance, and work on their social skills too. Try this: Purchase a few differently textured pool noodles (smooth, bumpy, or made from foam.)

Your child will like feeling (experiencing) the tactile differences. To play, have her “ride the noodle” like it’s a horse across the pool to feed him out of a bucket, then “ride” back to the starting point. Do this back and forth.

Virtually all aquatic activities that your child does will help them develop key skills that will benefit them outside of the water too. Make some memories and have fun!

M.E. CALDWELL, RDN

CARA KOSCINKI, MOT, OTR/L Author

EDITOR, a mom who misses the stay-at-home days with tots!

ASK THE SPECIALIST

Q. My child (9 yrs) snores at night and my sister, a dental hygenist, said it could be from a sleep disorder.

A. Your sister is referring to Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB). SDB typically results from a con-

STEVEN TITENSOR, DDS, TitensorDental.com

stricted or underdeveloped airway and has been clinically associated with many childhood health disorders (chronic allergies, swollen tonsils and adenoids, snoring, crowded teeth, and more).

There is a therapy that we have been using in our practice called Perfect Start, this oral appliance promotes the proper growth and development of a child’s oral cavity, the jaw and upper palate, and as these areas develop more fully, a child’s airway can widen and expand, allowing them to breathe nasally.

EMAIL QUESTIONS: editor@suburbanparent.com 8

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SUBMIT QUESTIONS : facebook.com/momsolvers

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WE LOVE THIS { YOU WILL TOO }

BUFF, HYDRATE AND RESTORE!

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Vitamin-rich, high-performance antioxidant skincare products! Go ahead moms, pamper yourself with these products that will give you glowing skin all year long? derma e® Microdermabrasion Scrub $32.50; derma e® Hydrating Eye Crème with Hyaluronic Acid $21.50; derma e® Intensive Therapy Body Balm $15.00 Enter for a chance to WIN these products! www.dermae.com

DIY FLOWER CONTAINERS

2 Looking for a unique way to display your May flowers? Place simple groupings of flowers into painted tin coffee or soup cans. Use moss or floral foam to keep the flowers in place. Simply beautiful.

FOR THE BIBLIOPHILE!

3 A perfect gift to add some “pearls” of printed wisdom to your ensemble! You don’t have to be an editor to love this handmade piece. Laura Bruland Shields used her own favorite book to create the first one of a kind laser cut necklace; now she is hooked! We found this wisdom literary necklace at www.uncommongoods.com $55.00

LAUNDRY TIP

4 If you’re like most moms, keeping up with the laundry can feel like a losing battle, but here’s an idea that will help prevent you from getting caught on game day without a clean uniform for your athlete. Designate an additional basket in the laundry room as the “please wash me first” basket. Then train family members to put their most pressing (and only their most pressing) items in there.

“REMEMBER WHEN” FAMILY PILLOW

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Personalized to create a one-of-a-kind pillow the whole family will cherish. From a fun vacation to a special song; use your favorite memories to create this perfect gift. We found it at www.gifts.com $34.99 (check website, may be on sale now)

GO ONLINE FOR CHANCE TO WIN: www.suburbanparent.com 10

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

Summer School is Now Enrolling!

The Guthrie School is now accepting applications for Summer Sessions for grade levels Pre-K - Teens.

Class sizes are limited with spaces filling quickly.

Please call TODAY to apply.

• PLEASE RSVP

•

972-596-6929

PARENT CO • Prepare for the next school year!

May 7th•10amFFEE -11am Summer school will be held from 972-596-6929 • Limited class sizes to keep quality high June 1st - August 14th (M-F), 2015. and provide time for individual attention!

• Rich curriculum - Reading, Writing, An early bird rate is available to those who pay Vocabulary Extension, Oral Presentation, Math, for 8 weeks of summer sessions by April 30th.

Critical Thinking, and fun afternoon programs!

• Get a head start on PSAT, ISEE and SAT testing!

• Sign up by the week; half or full days are Come join us available. Full days include lunch! this summer and

learn to write!

Be a winner from the starting line.

Rishab Siddamshetty,

Fun Afternoon Extension Program!

a writing student of

• Sports Skills • Art • Karate

won first place in the UIL (University Interscholastic League) 4th grade writing competition for Frisco ISD.

• • •

Drama Cooking Chinese

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Ms. Meredith Guthrie,

Music Science Spanish

972-596-6929 • guthrieschool.com • 598 Old Custer Road, Allen, TX 75013

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MAY 2015 suburban parent

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

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MAY 2015 suburban parent

13

ThoefPPicatruerneting T

he other night I attended a mom’s night out with a few girlfriends.

We went to one of those “Paint and Sip” places, where you take a painting workshop while drinking wine and socializing. The teacher brings in a sample painting, and takes the class step-by-step through recreating it. The atmosphere is very relaxed, and it’s supposed to be a fun way to explore your creative side while spending time with friends.

My entire group has young children at home. We were desperate for a break from kids, and looked forward to some fun adult conversation.

And I figured the wine couldn’t hurt, either.

When we arrived, I stopped to look at the piece we would be painting.

It featured a deep blue night sky with a luminescent full moon. Trees with leaves in glittery fall colors graced a craggy beach. The calm ocean held a reflection of the moon, and the sky was dotted with tiny pinpoints of light.

It was beautiful. And it looked impossible to replicate.

There were about thirty students that night, mostly women. Once we settled in with our snacks and wine, the teacher started the lesson. First, we were to paint the top third of the canvas in blue. That was easy, and it felt soothing, spreading the creamy paint onto the textured canvas.

The scent of acrylics and wine drifted up and my shoulders relaxed as I painted. Then, we were instructed to add a little black to the blue, painting our way down the canvas until the color was completely black at the bottom, with the blue color gradually darkening. That’s when I heard the first negative comments from around the room.

“I messed up!” “Can I start over?” “I made my blue too dark!”

As we worked, the conversation at my table turned to parenting and kids, as it usually does when a bunch of moms get together. Many of my group had given up careers to be at home with their kids.

We talked about how difficult that transition can be.

“The hardest part about staying home taking care of kids,” one friend said, “is that you never get any feedback. At least at work I got quarterly evaluations to tell me how I was doing.”

“And a paycheck!” another mom said.

Once the backgrounds of our canvases were finished, we blow-dried our paintings, and then began adding in the tree trunks. The teacher showed us exactly how to create these with a thin paintbrush turned sideways, painting long stripes from the bottom up, then adding branches. Next, we created a big full moon and dabbed the moon’s reflection onto the water in white.

The comments began again. “My moon looks like an egg!” “I hate my trees!” I don’t know how many trees to paint.” “Can I look at yours?”

After the grumbling in the room died down, our table went back to our previous conversation as we tried to follow the teacher’s directions.

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BY TIFFANY DOERR GUERZON

A mom of two spoke up first. “Any feedback on your parenting skills you do get is negative!”

“Yeah,” I said. “No one ever stops you in the grocery store and tells what a great job you are doing with your kids.”

“No,” another added, “but they sure do give you the look when the kids act up!”

After our tree trunks dried, the teacher showed us how to mix three colors to achieve a golden-brown for painting fall leaves onto our bare trees.

Again, the comments began.

“My leaves are too big!” “I can’t get that color!” “Did I put too many?”

The self-criticism I was hearing around the room reminded me of how we critique ourselves as parents. While it’s true that the media, parenting experts, and even other moms are always telling us what we are doing wrong—often our worst enemies are ourselves.

No one can criticize us as harshly as we criticize ourselves.

When I finished my artwork, I walked around the room and checked out the other paintings. I was amazed at how different they all were. Every student had been given the same colors and the same set of instructions, yet each person’s individuality shone through in their art. And each painting was beautiful.

But when the class wrapped up, many students were unhappy with their results.

“Don’t worry,” the teacher said. “In a minute we are going to each view our paintings from a distance. You will be happy and surprised at what you have done.”

One by one, we placed our paintings on an easel at the front and stood behind a line on the floor to view our work from several feet away.

The comments began again, but now they were entirely different.

“Wow, it really looks good!” “I can’t believe I painted that!”

“My leaves aren’t so bad from here!”

“You were too close to it before,” the teacher said.

And it was true. My less-than-round moon and too-thick tree trunks were pretty when viewed as a whole, as a small part of the bigger picture.

I believe that it is the same with parenting. The little things—like the time you yelled at your kids or fed them mac ’n’ cheese four days in a row—seem huge when viewed up close. Or when you are in the middle of bigger problems, such as a teen with bad grades in school or a kid in trouble, you feel you have flunked at parenting.

But down the road, when our kids are grown, it will all fade into the background. Every painting will look a little different, but they will all be beautiful. SP

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

BOTH MARKETS RUN WEEKLY

Prairie Adventure Camp e Most Unique Camp in the Metroplex!

www.Chestnutsquare.org

Farm to Table Dinner

June • July • August • 2015

May 28

Vintage style clothing! • Pioneer games and crafts!

A trip back in time for some old-fashioned fun!

972-562-8790

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MAY 2015 suburban parent

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• PLEASE RSVP • For Our

PARENT COFFEE

May 7th•10am

-11am

972-596-6929

Welcome to the Guthrie School of Higher Standards Committed to shaping the leaders of tomorrow by fostering a lifelong love of learning today.

summer camp GREENHILL SCHOOL/ SUMMER ON THE HILL www.greenhill.org/summer See ad on p. 25

Our elite academic programs prepare students to excel at the next level.

THE GUTHRIE SCHOOL DISTINCTION

• Pre-K

to Grade 5 • Academically advanced prep school curriculum • Award winning, experienced teachers • Low student/teacher ratio • Small class sizes • Full time PE coach • Gymnasium for PE and recess during extreme weather • Technology integrated into curriculum including typing skills training • Full foreign language classes 3 times a week • Full chess class included in school day curriculum • Full music and art classes included in school day curriculum • Bright, large classrooms • Library • Tree lined playground and outdoor hard court for basketball • Dance, art, martial arts, and piano classes after school TOURS EVERY WEDNESDAY AT 10:30AM • PLEASE CALL TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT. APPLY NOW! Contact Heidi Milam for enrollment.

w. call no e s a e l ite. ble! P available on webs s e c a p s la n avai mited Very li Applicatio

The Guthrie School

598 Old Custer Rd.

•

Allen, Texas 75013

972-596-6929

www.guthrieschool.com 16

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ASPIRING MINDS MONTESSORI 972-370-8295 www.aspiringmindsmontessori.com See ad on p. 3

HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM 972-881-0140 www.heritagefarmstead.org See ad on p. 26

AQUA TYKES 214-585-2406 www.aquatykestx.com See ad on p. 26

JCC 214-239-7138 www.jccdallas.org See ad on p. 24

CAMP INVENTION 800-968-4332 www.campinvention.org See ad on p. 25

PRINCE OF PEACE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 972-447-0532 www.popcs.org See ad on p. 23

CLUB SCIENTIFIC 214-530-5979 www.clubscientificdallas.com See ad on p. 23

SAFESPLASH SWIM SCHOOL www.safesplash.com See ad on p. 17

DALLAS SUMMER MUSICALS ACADEMY 214-498-5434 www.academy@dsm.com See ad on p. 25

TECHEDVENTURES 972-905-1777 www.techedventures.com See ad on p. 21

DESTINATION SCIENCE www.destinationscience.org See ad on p. 22

TEXAS PREMIER YOUTH SPORTS 469-834-8450 www.texaspremieryouthsports.com See ad on p. 17

EXPLORE HORIZONS 972-739-7025 www.explore-horizons.com See ad on p. 17

THE GUTHRIE SCHOOL 972-596-6929 www.guthrieschool.com See ad on p. 11 & 16

FLOATING KIWIS floatingkiwis@gmail.com See as on p. 22

THE PADDOCK STABLES 469-583-1402 www.thepaddocksstables.com See ad on p. 28

FRISCO INDOOR SPORTS 972-712-7400 www.friscoindoorsports.com See ad on p. 23 FRISCO MONTESSORI ACADEMY 972-712-7400 www.friscomontessori.com See ad on p. 9

UTD CHESS CAMP 972-883-4899 www.utdallas.edu/chess See ad on p. 21 WILLOW BEND ACADEMY 972-599-7882 www.willowbendacademy.com See ad on p. 21

SEE FULL CAMP LISTING ONLINE: www.suburbanparent.com

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$

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off

First Month of Lessons (new clients only)

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KNOW IT ALL { YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR }

MAY 2015 FRI 1 SUMMER SAFETY CAMP AT RICHARDSON POLICE DEPARTMENT (JUNE Applications accepted now through July.

If your child has completed kindergarten and has not yet started 4th grade, he/she is eligible to attend Summer Safety Camp. Registration for Richardson residents is going on now. Kids will see videos and listen to guest speakers about 9-1-1, Stranger Danger, Internet Safety, Animal Safety, Poison Safety, Water Safety and much more. Registrations will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Camp sessions are one week long staring in June and will run through the first week of August. They will be held at the Richardson Police and Fire Substation at 2003 E. Renner Rd. E-mail SummerSafetyCamp@cor.gov or call 972-744-4949 for further details.

YOUTH CITIZEN POLICE ACADEMY – APPLY NOW! 8:30-12:30pm. Is your teen interested in Police training? This one-week program is designed to provide youth, ages 14 to 17, in the City of Richardson, first-hand information about how the Police Department functions. Academy participation requires a one-week commitment (6/156/19 Mon-Fri) Unless otherwise specified, classes will be held at the Richardson/ Plano Police Training Academy in Plano. Topics include (CSI) Crime Scene Investigations, K-9 unit, SWAT, Firearm simulation and much more! Applications are now being accepted and must be received by June 1st. This is a selection based program. Call 972-744-4955 for more info. Richardson/Plano Training Academy 4912 14th St, Plano.

APP TIME – LEARN MORE 11-11:45am. Enjoy iPads and apps at this new program designed to boost literacy skills in a digital environment. Each session will demonstrate a book app and include free play time with tablets.

Learn what makes a good app and how to best engage and experience digital tools with your child. This program is grant-funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the State Library

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= ADVERTISER

and Archives Commission Free Ages 3-6 Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano.

972-769-4250

CONCERTS BY THE CREEK. 7-10pm. Gloria D’Arezzo & Friends. Music Makes a Difference is part of the Concerts by the Creek music series. It takes place every Friday thru October. Watters Creek at Montgomery Farms 970 Garden Park Dr., Allen 972-747-8000

SAT 2 4TH ANNUAL MOTHERHOOD MATTERS PREGNANCY EXPO PRESENTED BY WINGS FOR WELLNESS 10-2pm. Great resources for new and expectant moms with 50+ exhibitors - like pregnancy baby photography, pre/postnatal massage, nursery design, mommy jewelry and more! Educational seminars include Infant CPR, Car Seat Safety, Postpartum Depression, and Benefits of Exercise during and after pregnancy, and Coping with an Identity Crisis as a New Mom. Plus door prizes and give-a-ways. Richardson Civic Center, Grand Hall, 411 W. Arapaho Rd., Richardson. www.wingsforwellness.org Sponsored by Suburban Parent

RACE TO CHANGE THE WORLD 5K AND 1K FUN RUN 8am. Proceeds support the Change the World Recreational Ministry Project. For more info please visit website. Bob Woodruff Park, 2601 San Gabriel Dr., Plano.

HISTORIC MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET 8am-12pm. Come to Chestnut Square and enjoy! Over 50 vendors offer ready to eat foods, wine, cheese, olive oil, jams, jellies, sauces and more! Chestnut Square 315 S. Chestnut St., McKinney.

Also on Thursday’s 3-6pm visit Adriatica (corner of Virginia Pkwy & Adriatica) Market vendors also offer sauces, canned goods, pasta, baked goods, wine and flowers! See ad in this issue.

ZIP LINE DAY AT THE HEARD MUSEUM 1-4pm. Soar through the treetops of the Heard Wildlife Sanctuary as you travel the

Ropes Course’s zip line! Purchase one ticket for each ride. $12 per person. Ages 8+, Must make reservations at ropes@ heardmuseum.org Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney 972-562-5566

ADVANCED WILDLIFE REHAB CLASS AT THE PLANO ANIMAL SHELTER 8:30am-5:30pm. Wildlife Rehabilitation Basics: Advanced Topics Course Overview This class is intended for wildlife rehabilitators, Animal Control Officers, and others who may be called upon to provide emergency, short-term, or long-term care for orphaned, ill, or injured native wildlife, or work with the public to resolve issues involving wildlife. 4028 W. Plano Parkway, Plano. (817) 229-5653

SHOWTIME SATURDAYS AT THE GALLERIA 11:30-12pm. Join the family-fun entertainment event happening adjacent to Galleria’s award-winning Play Place on Level 3. Every Saturday, dozens of children and their families make time to enjoy the amazing FREE entertainment. Each week the performance is different. Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas

AP EXAMS-PEER STUDY SESSIONS - FREE 2-4pm. Face your AP exams with confidence! Meet with other teens for structured peer-to-peer study groups covering a wide variety of AP subjects. Share your notes and get insider info from teens who have already taken the exams, and learn about the library’s resources (Tutor.com and Learning Express Library) that provide FREE AP study materials and practice exams. Free, Grades 9-12. Davis Library-Plano, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano. 972-208-8000

FAMILY FREESTYLE ROBOTICS 3-5pm. This freestyle session lets you pick which robot you want to build!

We will provide We Do kits for families with younger kids, and EV3 kits for those looking for a challenge! Registration required. Registration opens two weeks prior to session. Free All Ages Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano.

972-769-4250

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SUPER SCIENCE: FLOAT MY BOAT 3-5pm. Build a boat made of foil and then test it by seeing how many pennies it can hold before it sinks. Free for all ages. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy, Plano.

972-769-4300

SUN 3 JUNIOR ROBOTICS: SMART SPINNER 10:30am-12pm Learn about gears, rotation and speed as you build and test your own smart spinner. Registration required. Registration opens two weeks prior to session.

Free Ages 7-9 Harrington Library, 1501 18th Street, Plano. 972-941-7175

TASTE OF MAH JONG AT THE HAGGARD LIBRARY 2-4pm. Meet new friends and play Mah Jong! Both American and Chinese sets will be provided, and you are welcome to bring your own set to share. No scoring or gambling! Come-and-go. Free Adults Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Rd., Plano. 972-769-4250

MON 4 PLAYDATE HOUR 11am-12pm. Conversation for grown-ups, toys and play for the kids! Food and drink are welcome. Free. Ages 18-36 mos. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy, Plano.

972-769-4300

STORYTIMES AT THE SMITH PUBLIC LIBRARY. Storytime is on break May4-May30. See you in June! Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Wylie. 972-516-6250

TUE 5 GED CLASSES AT THE SMITH PUBLIC LIBRARY 5-8pm. These classes meet every Tuesday and follow the same holiday schedule as Wylie ISD. All classes are held in the Conference Room and no registration is required. Check our website for additional information. Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Bldg. 300, Wylie. 972-516-6250

MATH TUTORING

PRAYER BREAKFAST

6-7:30pm. Free tutoring help is available every week at the library. Tutoring is for students struggling to maintain grade-level math, not those in advanced or honors classes. All materials will be provided, but students are encouraged to bring any unfinished math homework with them. Tutoring is provided by volunteers. Registration required Continues for students enrolled in fall 2014. No meetings March 10 or 12. Free Grades 1-1 Harrington Library, 1501 18th Street, Plano. 972-941-7175

6:30-9:30am. In affiliation with The National Day of Prayer, the Collin County Christian Prayer Breakfast event brings together hundreds of people from Collin County to give praise, glory and honor to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Tickets $25/chair. The Plano Centre 2000 E. Spring Creek, Plano. http://www.collinchristianprayerbreakfast.com/theevent

PEBBLE/TIN MAGNETS 7-8pm. Cool crafts for grown ups: as seen on Pinterest. Learn new skills, meet new friends, and share your love of crafts. Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Road, Plano. 972-769-4200

WED 6 READ! BUILD! PLAY! 2-3pm. Bringing play to storytime with LEGO Duplo bricks. Free Ages 0-5 Harrington Library, 1501 18th Street, Plano.

972-941-7175

PHOTOSHOP 101 6:30-7:30pm. Learn how to use Photoshop to manipulate our photos and create better images. Free Ages 13+ Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy, Plano.

972-769-4300

HOLA! BONJOUR! HELLO! FOREIGN LANGUAGE STUDY 6:30-7:30pm. Prepare for AP oral exams or just brush up on your foreign language conversational skills. Engage in conversation with volunteers who speak Spanish and French. Free Ages 13-18 Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano.

972-769-4250

ROCKIN ROBOTICS: INTRO TO EV3 AND SENSORS 6:30-8:30pm. Get hands on with EV3 Lego Mindstorm kits with a build session and learn about two sensors: gyro and color. Must attend both days. Registration required. Registration opens two weeks prior to session. Free Ages 10-12 Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Rd, Plano. 972-769-4200

THU 7 PARENT COFFEE AT THE GUTHRIE SCHOOL Find out more about our elite academic programs that prepare students to excel at the next level. 10-11am. Please RSVP. 598 Old Custer Rd, Allen 972596-6929 www.guthrieschool.com.

See ad in this issue.

PARENT COFFEE AT THE GUTHRIE SCHOOL 10-11am. Find out more about our elite academic programs that prepare students to excel at the next level. Please RSVP. See ad in this issue. The Guthrie School, 598 Old Custer Rd, Allen. 972-596-6929

HISTORIC MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET 3-6pm. Come to Adriatica (corner of Virginia Pkwy & Adritica) Market vendors are offering sauces, canned goods, pasta, baked goods, wine and flowers!

Also visit Chestnut Square each Saturday 8am-noon. www.chestnutsquare.org. See ad in this issue.

MATH TUTORING 6-7:30pm. Free tutoring help is available every week at the library.

Tutoring is for students struggling to maintain grade-level math, not those in advanced or honors classes. All materials will be provided, but students are encouraged to bring any unfinished math homework with them. Tutoring is provided by volunteers. Free Grades 1-12 Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Rd, Plano. 972-769-4200

FRI 8 PUPPET SHOW: KISS FOR LITTLE BEAR 11am-12pm. Little Bear’s thank you kiss from grandmother gets passed on to him by many animals and greatly aids the skunk’s romance! Free for all ages. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy, Plano.

972-769-4300

BOOKED ON FRIDAYS AT THE SMITH PUBLIC LIBRARY 12-1pm. Bring your lunch at noon the 2nd Friday of each month for fun reads and light conversation. A limited number of book club copies are available at the Help Desk. Reading - One Plus One by Jojo Moyes. Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Wylie. 972-516-6250

SAT 9 SCARBOROUGH RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL 10am-7pm. The 35th season of Scarborough Renaissance Festival, every SatDon’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Suburban Parent!

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KNOW IT ALL urday and Sunday for eight weekends through May 25th.

Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano. 972-7694250 Free All Ages.

DALLAS PET EXPO

A WILD GOOSE CHASE SHADOW PUPPETRY

10am-6pm. You won’t want to miss this event! Meet Gander the Service Dog and his human companion, Lon the Veteran Traveler. Be sure to check out tons of pet friendly Exhibitors and Rescue Groups. Admission is FREE. Dallas Market Hall, 2200 Stemmons Fwy., Dallas 1-800-977-3609

HISTORIC MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET OPENS 8am-12pm. Come to Chestnut Square and enjoy! Over 50 vendors offer ready to eat foods, wine, cheese, olive oil, jams, jellies, sauces and more! Chestnut Square 315 S. Chestnut St., McKinney.

Also on Thursdays 3-6pm visit Adriatica (corner of Virginia Pkwy & Adriatica) Market vendors also offer sauces, canned goods, pasta, baked goods, wine and flowers! See ad in this issue.

TOMBSTONE MYSTERIESCOMMUNITY PROJECT 9-11am. Join us for Tombstone Mysteries--a fun community project taking place in two historic Plano cemeteries! You’ll clean gravestones, plant flowers, place flags to honor soldiers, solve mysteries about interesting residents, and help preserve these sites dating back to the Civil War. We welcome volunteers of all ages including adult, teen, and children age 8 and above accompanied by a parent. We’ll also have plenty of drinks and snacks. The event is free, but we need a count for materials, so email your name, phone number, and number in your group to info@PlanoConservancy.org Please park across street at Boys and Girls Club, 1111 H Avenue, Plano. (972) 941-2117

SAT PRACTICE TEST & TUTORIAL 10:30am-3:30pm. Take an actual SAT test and find out right away how you can improve. The test is followed by a 1-hour tutorial and runs through lunchtime.

Bring snacks and a bottle of water with you! Presented by More Than a Teacher.

Registration required. Registration opens two weeks prior to session. Free Grades 9-12 Harrington Library, 1501 18th Street, Plano. 972-941-7175

SCIENCE SATURDAY 11am-1pm. Science on the Go-Hands-on demos. Robot Round-up-See LEGO Mindstorms robots in action! Contact Science - Experiment with the Electric Adventures exhibit on loan from UT Dallas Creative Technology-Tours and demos of the Digital Creation Space, complete with green screen! Haggard

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

3-4pm. Join Matt Sandbank for a show filled with dancing pants, guitar rockin’ grandmothers, mischievous spaceships, and many more whimsical images. Free All Ages Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy, Plano. 972-208-8000

SUN 10 HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY! SCARBOROUGH RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL 11am. Treat mom to special Mother’s Day brunch with the whole family! There will be lively entertainment and the scrumptious buffet. Plus, King Henry VIII and other members of the Royal Court will make a special visit to honor all mothers!

Tickets may be purchased in advance online or at the event itself (space is limited). $20-Adults and $10 Children (5-12), 4 and under free. 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie

MOTHER’S DAY CONCERT 2-4pm. Our annual Mother’s Day Concert with The Women’s Chorus of Dallas will make this special day memorable for the whole family. Each year, concerts have sold out. This hour-long concert, concluding with a live butterfly release in the Conservatory, is the perfect way to celebrate with the ones you love on Mother’s Day. TEXAS DISCOVERY GARDENS at Fair Park 3601 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Dallas, Texas 75210, $15-20

MON 11 PUPPET SHOW: LITTLE RED HEN 10:30-11am. When the Little Red Hen finds that none of her friends are willing to help her make bread, but all are willing to eat the bread, will she share? Free All Ages. Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Rd, Plano. 972-769-4200

PLAYDATE HOUR 11am-12pm. Conversation for grown-ups, toys and play for the kids! Food and drink are welcome. Free. Ages 18-36 mos. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy, Plano. 972-769-4300

TUE 12 DANCE PARTY 10:30-11am. Music and literacy go together! Move to the music, listen to books with beat and have lots of fun! Free Ages 0-5 Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano. 972-769-4250

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KNOW IT ALL LA LECHE LEAGUE PLANO 10:30-11:30am. Room 122, LEADER INFORMATION: Beth 972-747-1297 Cleo cleo6924@aol.com Lynnee 469-855-0647 lmburns30@sbcglobal.net Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 3601 W 15th St, Plano.

10:30-11:30am. Have fun learning with educational toys Including simple math, science and early literacy activities.

Come and go. Free All Ages Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Rd, Plano.

972-769-4200

BOOKS N’ DUCKS

PAPER FLOWERS

11am-12pm. Join us for a ducky storytime outside by the pond. We’ll read some ducky books, watch a ducky puppet show, make a ducky craft, and feed the ducks in the pond. Free All Ages Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy, Plano. 972-208-8000

7-8pm. Cool crafts for grown ups: as seen on Pinterest. Learn new skills, meet new friends and share your love of crafts. Free adults. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy, Plano. 972-769-4300

MATH TUTORING

HISTORIC MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET

6-7:30pm. Free tutoring help is available every week at the library. Tutoring is for students struggling to maintain grade-level math, not those in advanced or honors classes. All materials will be provided, but students are encouraged to bring any unfinished math homework with them. Tutoring is provided by volunteers. Registration. Free Grades 1-12 Harrington Library, 1501 18th Street, Plano. 972-941-7175

SECOND TUESDAY BOOK CLUB 7:15-8:30pm. Read and discuss the featured book. Free Adults. Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Rd, Plano.

972-769-4200

WED 13 GENEALOGY: DID MY ANCESTOR OWN LAND? 9:30-11am. How to find land records.

Free Adults Genealogy Center, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250

READ! BUILD! PLAY! 2-3pm. Bringing play to storytime with LEGO Duplo bricks. Free Ages 0-5 Harrington Library, 1501 18th Street, Plano.

972-941-7175

TWISTED THREADS AT THE ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY 6:30-8 pm. Do you knit? Or crochet?

Or make spectacular things with thread and yarn? If so, Twisted Threads is for you! Twisted Threads is a social group for knitters, crocheters, felters, quilters, and any other type of craft done with thread or yarn! All skill levels are welcome! So, bring your latest project and

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ROCKIN ROBOTICS: INTRO TO EV3 AND SENSORS 6:30-8:30pm. Get hands on with EV3 Lego Mindstorm kits with a build session and learn about two sensors: gyro and color. Must attend both days. Registration required. Registration opens two weeks prior to session. Free Ages 10-12 Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Rd, Plano. 972-769-4200

MORNING MINDSTRETCHERS

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work on it in the company of other fiber crafters. Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Dr., Allen,, 214-509-4904

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

THU 14 3-6pm. Come to Adriatica (corner of Virginia Pkwy & Adritica) Market vendors are offering sauces, canned goods, pasta, baked goods, wine and flowers!

Also visit Chestnut Square each Saturday 8am-noon. www.chestnutsquare.org. See ad in this issue.

MATH TUTORING 6-7:30pm. Free tutoring help is available every week at the library. Tutoring is for students struggling to maintain grade-level math, not those in advanced or honors classes. All materials will be provided, but students are encouraged to bring any unfinished math homework with them.

Tutoring is provided by volunteers. Continues for students enrolled in fall 2014 and new students may register in person at the library starting January 2. Free Grades 1-12 Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Rd, Plano, 972-769-4200

THE WRITE STUFF 7-8pm. Interested in creative writing?

Join other adults to share critiques, exchange ideas and support each other in your creative endeavors. Both published and aspiring authors in all genres are welcome. Free Adults. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy, Plano.

972-769-4300

FRI 15 LET’S GET MOVING! 11-12pm. Get moving with books, flannel stories, songs and more all involving music and movement. Free Ages 2-5. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy, Plano.

972-769-4300

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KNOW IT ALL SAT 16 HISTORIC MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET 8am-12pm. Come to Chestnut Square and enjoy! Over 50 vendors offer ready to eat foods, wine, cheese, olive oil, jams, jellies, sauces and more! Chestnut Square 315 S. Chestnut St., McKinney.

Also on Thursdays 3-6pm visit Adriatica (corner of Virginia Pkwy & Adriatica) Market vendors also offer sauces, canned goods, pasta, baked goods, wine and flowers! See ad in this issue.

PETER PAN - THE BALLET. 2pm-4pm. Two performances 2pm and 7:30pm! Come see Peter, Wendi, Tinkerbell and Hook, in a brand new production by Youth Ballet of Texas.

Peter Pan - The Ballet takes you on an adventure to Neverland to see Tiger Lily, the Lost boys, pirates, mermaids, and more. McKinney North High School, 2550 Wilmeth Road, McKinney, 214-4779434 www.texasyouthballet.com

SHOWTIME SATURDAYS AT THE GALLERIA 11:30am-12pm. Join the family-fun entertainment event happening every Saturday; each week the performance is different!

Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas

PUPPET SHOW: GUNNIWOLF 3-3:30pm. A little girl who ventures too far into the forest meets the jungle Gunniwolf! Free All Ages. Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano. 972-769-4250

FAMILY ROBOTICS: FORKLIFT 3-5pm. Use pulleys and belts, and investigate energy transfer as you build a forklift that lifts and lowers a pallet! Registration required. Registration opens two weeks prior to session. Free All Ages Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy, Plano. 972-208-8000

SUN 17 NIGHT OUT ON 15TH 5:30-10pm. Join us under a canopy of twinkling lights where 15th Street meets Avenue K in quaint, historic downtown Plano. The street is closed to traffic for this outdoor dining event featuring a 300 foot “long table” down the middle of 15th Street. We will celebrate the culinary creations of neighborhood chefs where guests will enjoy a 5-course meal paired with complementary libations. The evening includes musical delights plus live entertainment from Theatre Britain. This event brings foodies together to enjoy the culinary scene, plus provides an opportunity to give back to the community. Proceeds from the event will benefit My Possibilities and North Food Bank. To

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

buy tickets; go to www.visitdowntownplano.com EVENTS, scroll down to Night Out on 15th. Old Downtown Plano, 15th Street, Plano

MON 18 DALLAS FARMER’S MARKET 8am-5pm daily. Fruit and Veggie Stands.

Traditional set-up with a large variety of produce trucked in daily! Dallas Farmers Market, 1010 South Pearl Expressway, Dallas (Closed May 20th)

PLAYDATE HOUR 11am-12pm. Conversation for grown-ups, toys and play for the kids! Food and drink are welcome. Free. Ages 18-36 mos. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy, Plano. 972-769-4300

NOVEL KNITTERS 7-8pm. Share knitting tips, learn to knit, bring your project. Free, Adults.

Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano.

972-769-4250

TUE 19 PARACHUTE PARTY 10:30-11am. Join us for music and games as we discover just how much fun we can have with a parachute! Free for all ages. Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano. 972-769-4250

MORNING MINDSTRETCHERS 10:30-11:30am. Have fun learning with educational toys Including simple math, science and early literacy activities. Come and go.

Free All Ages Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Rd, Plano. 972-769-4200

2-FOR-TUESDAY AT COLOR ME MINE 11am-9pm. No reservations and no experience are necessary to get creative in our Paint-it-Yourself Ceramics Studio. 2 people paint for one studio fee! 3401 Preston Road, Suite 10, Frisco. 972-668-6201

PUPPET SHOW: PUPPET PALOOZA 11-11:30am. Books, songs and stories all featuring puppets! Free All Ages Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy, Plano. 972-208-8000

PREMIERE 101 7-8pm. Use cameras, the green screen, and Adobe Premiere to create and edit videos. Registration required. Registration opens two weeks prior to session.

Free Ages 13-18 Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano. 972-769-4250

ROBOTICS SHOWCASE 7-8pm. We’ll have opportunities to do the simple WeDo kits or the more advanced EV3. This is only for adults, so leave

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KNOW IT ALL the kids at home and come see why so many people find them fun! Free Adults Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Rd, Plano. 972-769-4200

stories, songs and more all involving music and movement. Free Ages 2-5. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy, Plano.

972-769-4300

WED 20

FAMILY ROBOTICS: FORKLIFT

PARACHUTE PARTY 10:30-11am. Up, down and round and round-join us for music and games as we discover just how much fun we can have with a parachute! Free for all ages.

Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano.

972-769-4250

READ! BUILD! PLAY! 2-3pm. Play to storytime with LEGO Duplo bricks. Free Ages 0-5 Harrington Library, 1501 18th Street, Plano. 972-941-7175

THU 21 LA LECHE LEAGUE OF MCKINNEY 10:15-11:45am. LEADER INFORMATION: Autumn 559-312-3873 wintermermaid@gmail. com DeeDee 972-838-9135 dlynn@dfwair. net Marie 972-800-9216 mamasmilk13@ gmail.com First United Methodist Church, 315 N. Church St, McKinney

HISTORIC MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET 3-6pm. Come to Adriatica (corner of Virginia Pkwy & Adritica) Market vendors are offering sauces, canned goods, pasta, baked goods, wine and flowers! Visit Chestnut Square each Saturday 8am-noon. www. chestnutsquare.org. See ad in this issue.

AIR QUALITY AND TRANSPORTATION 7-8:30pm. Breeze into this class to learn how everyday decisions affect indoor and outdoor air quality! Presented

by Live Green in Plano. Registration required. Free Adults Harrington Library, 1501 18th Street, Plano. 972-941-7175

TECHNOLOGY BUDDIES 7-8:30pm. Are you challenged by technology or interested in learning computer basics such as mouse control or creating an email account? Join us for one-on-one help with your technology questions. Come and go event. Free Adults Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Rd, Plano. 972-769-4200

MYSTERY BOOK CLUB 7-8:30pm. Read and discuss the featured book. Free Adults Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy, Plano. 972-208-8000

FRI 22 LET’S GET MOVING! 11-12pm. Get moving with books, flannel

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

3-5pm. Use pulleys and belts, and investigate energy transfer as you build a forklift that lifts and lowers a pallet! Registration required. Registration opens two weeks prior to session. Free All Ages Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy, Plano. 972-208-8000

SAT 23 HISTORIC MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET OPENS 8am-12pm. 50 + vendors offer ready to eat foods, wine, cheese, olive oil, jams, jellies, sauces and more. Also at Adriatica (corner of Virginia Pkwy & Adritica), Thursdays 3-6pm. Chestnut Square, 315 S. Chestnut St., McKinney.

See ad in this issue

OPEN HOUSE AT ELDORADO MONTESSORI Sat-10am-2 pm See ad in this issue. Eldorado Montessori, 11600 Teel Pkwy, Frisco.

972-334-9444 See ad in this issue

SHOWTIME SATURDAYS AT THE GALLERIA 11:30am-12pm. Join the family-fun entertainment event happening adjacent to Galleria’s award-winning Play Place on Level 3. Every Saturday, dozens of children and their families make time to enjoy the amazing FREE entertainment. Each week the performance is different. Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas.

WILDLIFE ON THE MOVE: THE UNHUGGABLES 3-4pm. All the critters you thought you hated including large hissing cockroaches, creepy tarantulas, slithery snakes, and other reptiles and invertebrates! Free All Ages Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Rd, Plano.

972-769-4200

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

TUE 26 MORNING MINDSTRETCHERS 10:30-11:30am. Fun learning with educational toys Including simple math, science and early literacy activities. Come and go.

Free All Ages Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Rd, Plano. 972-769-4200

GENEALOGY: LEGACY RESEARCH 1:30-5pm. Join the Legacy Users Group for information sharing, research tips, webinars, and one-on-one help. Free Adults Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Rd., Plano. 972-769-4250

GED CLASSES AT THE SMITH PUBLIC LIBRARY 5-8pm. These classes meet every Tuesday and follow the same holiday schedule as Wylie ISD. Classes are held in Conference Room. No registration required. Check our website for additional information. Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Bldg.

300, Wylie. 972-516-6250

TECHNOLOGY BUDDIES 7-8:30pm. Are you challenged by technology or interested in learning computer basics such as mouse control or creating an email account? Join us for one-on-one help with your technology questions. Come and go event. Free Adults Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Rd, Plano. 972-769-4200

THU 28 FARM TO TABLE DINNER AT CHESTNUT SQUARE HISTORIC VILLAGE Chestnut Square Historic Village, Mckinney. 972-562-8790 . See ad in this issue.

READ! BUILD! PLAY!

jellies, sauces and more. Also at Adriatica (corner of Virginia Pkwy & Adritica), Thursdays 3-6pm. See ad in April issue.

Chestnut Square, 315 S. Chestnut St., McKinney. See ad in this issue.

SAT 30 CLASSICS ON THE SQUARE IN MCKINNEY 7:30-10:30am. McKinney Main Street proudly welcomes local classic car and truck enthusiast group, the Morning Maniacs, to Historic Downtown McKinney. The Morning Maniacs will host a show and shine the last Saturday of each month from 7:30-10:30 a.m. and invite all classic care and truck enthusiasts to attend. Come and check out some amazing cars and trucks, enjoy some breakfast and maybe a little shopping too.

Historic Downtown McKinney, 111 N. Tennessee St., McKinney. 972-547-2660

HISTORIC MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET OPENS 8am-12pm. 50 + vendors offer ready to eat foods, wine, cheese, olive oil, jams, jellies, sauces and more. Also at Adriatica (corner of Virginia Pkwy & Adritica), Thursdays 3-6pm. See ad in April issue. Chestnut Square , 315 S. Chestnut St., McKinney.

SHOWTIME SATURDAYS AT THE GALLERIA 11:30am-12pm. Join the family-fun entertainment event happening adjacent to Galleria’s award-winning Play Place on Level 3. Every Saturday, dozens of children and their families make time to enjoy the amazing FREE entertainment. Each week the performance is different. Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas

Bringing play to storytime with LEGO Duplo bricks. Free ages 0-5. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy, Plano. 972-769-4300

SAVE THE DATE

BROWN BAG BOOK CLUB

JUN 1

12-1:30pm. Read and discuss the featured book “The Smartest Kids in the World: And How They Got That Way” byamanda Ripley. Free Adults. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy, Plano.

972-769-4300

MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET AT ADRIATICA 3-6pm. Local and organic meat, dairy, honey and produce vendors offer their wares every Thursday at Adriatica on McKinney’s west side. Market vendors also offer sauces, canned goods, pasta, baked goods, wine and flowers! Open 3pm-7pm or until sellout. 6851 Virginia Pkwy, McKinney.

HISTORIC MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET OPENS 3-6pm. 50 + vendors offer ready to eat foods, wine, cheese, olive oil, jams,

SUMMER SCHOOL STARTS AT THE GUTHRIE SCHOOL Prepare for the next school year. For grade levels Pre-K – Teens. 598 Old Custer Rd, Allen 972-596-6929 www. guthrieschool.com. See ad in this issue.

JUN 1 SUMMER ON THE HILL BEGINS AT GREENHILL SCHOOL Select from an extraordinary variety of camps for boys and gilrs, ages 3-18. www.greenhill.org/summer. 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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happy birthday KA

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May 10

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A p ril 2 0 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.

story times PLANO - DAVIS BRANCH 7501-B Independence Pkwy.

972-208-8000 Mon - Toddler Time 10 & 11am, ages 18-36 mo., Tue - Babes in Arms 10am, ages 0-9 mo.; Preschool Storytime 11am, ages 3-5, Wed - Preschool Storytime 10am, ages 3-5; Family Together Time 7pm, all ages, Thur Toddler Time 10 & 11am, ages 18-36 mo., Fri - Rhyme Time 10 & 11am, ages 0-24 mo., Sat - Family Together Time 11am, all ages

PLANO - HAGGARD BRANCH 2501 Coit Rd. 972-769-4250 Mon – Toddler Time 10am, ages 18-36 mos, Family Together Time 7pm, all ages, Tue – Rhyme Time 9:30, ages 0-23 mo; Preschool Storytime 10:30am, ages 3-5; Wed – Babes in Arms 9:30am, ages 0-9 mo; Preschool Storytime 10:30am, ages 3-5; Toddler Time 10:30am, ages 18-36 mo., Thur – Toddler Time 10:30am, ages 18-36 mos; Fri - Rhyme Time 10am, ages 0-23mo.

ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY 300 N. Allen Dr., 214-509-4900 Mon - Fun Ones Story Time 10:15, ages 12-23 mos, Together Time 11:15am, ages 2-6, Tue Fun Ones Story Time 10:15am, ages 12-23 mos; Together Time, 11:15am ages 2-6 w/an adult, Pajama Story Time 7pm, ages 2-6 w/family; Wed – Fun Ones Story Time 10:15am, ages 1223 mos, All By Myself 11:15am, ages 4-5; Thur – Baby & Me 10:15am, pre-walkers w/adult, Together Time 10:15 & 11:15am, ages 2-3 w/adult; Pajama Story Time 7pm, ages 2-6 w/family

FRISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY 6101 Frisco Square Blvd.

972-292-KNOW Tue - Toddler Story Time 9:30am, 2’s Story Time 10 & 10:30am, 3-5 Story Time 11:30am, Wed - Babies and Books 10, 10:30, 11 & 11:30am; Bedtime Stories 7pm, all ages; Thur - Toddler Story Time 10am, 2’s Story Time 10:30am, 3-5 Story Time 11am; Fri – 2’s Story Time 10:30, 3-5 Story Time 11am, Sat - Family Story Time 10:30am, all ages

PLANO HARRINGTON BRANCH 1501 18th St. 972-941-7175

MCKINNEY - ROY AND HELLEN HALL BRANCH 101 E. Hunt St., 972-547-7323

Mon – Preschool Storytime 10:30am, ages 3-5; Tue – Rhyme Time 9:30am, ages 0-23 mos; Toddler Time 10:30am; Wed – Toddler Time 10:30am, Ages 18-36 mos; Family Together Time 7pm, all ages; Thur Preschool Storytime 10:30am, ages 3-5.

Mon - Fun with Baby 10:15am, ages 6-17mo & caregiver; Hold My Hand 10:15am, ages 18mo-3yrs & caregiver; On My Own 11am, ages 3-5, Wed - Family Story Time 6:30pm, all ages & caregivers *Tickets will be handed out for all preschool programs beginning at 10am

PLANO - PARR BRANCH 6200 Windhaven Pkwy.

972-769-4300

MCKINNEY - JOHN AND JUDY GAY BRANCH 6861 W. Eldorado Pkwy 972-547-7323

Mon – Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 18-36 mos: Tue - Preschool Storytime 11am, ages 3-5; Family Together Time 7pm, all ages, Wed - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 18-36 mos; Thur - Rhyme Time 10:15am, ages 0-23mo; Fri - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 1836 mos, Preschool Storytime 11am, ages 3-5.

PLANO - SCHIMELPFENIG BRANCH 5024 Custer Rd., 972-769-4200 Mon – Preschool Storytime 10:30am, ages 3-5; Tue - Toddler Time 9:30am, ages 18-36 mos:

Preschool Storytime 10:30am, ages 3-5; Wed - Rhyme Time 11:30am, ages 0-23mo; Thur - Rhyme Time 11:30am, ages 0-23mo

Wed - Fun with Baby 10:15am, ages 6-17mo & caregiver; Hold My Hand 10:15am, ages 18mo3yrs & caregiver; On My Own 11am, ages 3-5

RICHARDSON PUBLIC LIBRARY 900 Civic Center Dr. 972-744-4350 Mon - Wiggle Worms Story Time 10:15 & 11am; Baby Steps Story Time 6pm, Family Story Time 6:45pm; Tue - 3-6 Story Time 3:30pm, Wiggle Worms Story Time 6:30pm; Wed - 3-6 Story Time 11am; Thur - Wiggle Worms Story Time 10:15 & 11am; Fri - Baby Steps Story Time 10:15am.

All Storytimes are FREE. Listed are the regularly scheduled storytimes.

Call to confirm as schedules are subject to change.

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suburban parent

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

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

TEACHER: WHAT IS THE SHORTEST MONTH?

WHAT HAS A SINGLE EYE BUT CANNOT SEE?

STUDENT: MAY, IT ONLY HAS THREE LETTERS

A NEEDLE

WHAT IS A LIGHT AS A FEATHER, YET THE STRONGEST MAN CAN’T HOLD FOR MORE THAN A FEW MINUTES? YOUR BREATH

I am determined to be cheerful and happy in whatever situation I may find myself. For I have learned that the greater part of our misery or unhappiness is determined not by our circumstance but by our disposition.

My Mother taught me

— MARTHA WASHINGTON

ABOUT MARRIAGE. “How do you think you got here?”

...

LOGIC. “If you fall off that swing and break your neck, you can’t go to the store with me.”

MEDICINE. “If you don’t stop crossing your eyes, they’re going to freeze that way.”

TO THINK AHEAD. “If you don’t pass your spelling test, you’ll never get a good job!”

ESP. “Put your sweater on; don’t you think that I know when you’re cold?”

HUMOR. “When that lawn mower cuts off your toes, don’t come running to me.”

HOW TO BECOME AN ADULT. “If you don’t eat your vegetables, you’ll never grow up.

GENETICS. “You are just like your father!”

Source: www.brainyquote.com

ROOTS. “Do you think you were born in a barn?”

WISDOM OF AGE. “When you get to be my age, you will understand.”

ANTICIPATION. “Just wait until your father gets home.”

LOL WITH JAMES ESTES!

ABOUT RECEIVING. “You are going to get it when we get home.”

And my all time favorite thing, JUSTICE. “One day you will have kids, and I hope they turn out just like YOU... then you’ll see what it’s like.”

GOTTA LOVE ‘EM My husband was helping our son (1st grade) with his science fair project (lighting a light bulb from the acid in a lemon.) While my husband struggled through faulty trial runs which produced no light, I helped my son document the steps. I asked, “What is dad doing now?” He answered, “Putting a copper wire into the lemon.” Then I asked, “And what else is he doing?” He answered, “Having a really hard time with it.”

JACKIE, MOM OF ONE SMART SON

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

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

MAY 2015 suburban parent

29

BACKTALK { BY KEN SWARNER }

WAS I EVEN THERE?

F

or years, my wife and I have been conducting meaningful, deep and informative conversations; only, I swear I was not

She’s not ready to acknowledge that sometimes when she’s driving home from work, or weeding the garden, or trying to find my hiding

present at all of them.

I can’t prove it, but I am certain that some of these tete-a-tetes

take place in my wife’s head. And for the record, I’m not telepathic.

My wife will readily admit that her mind is often working overtime

spot from the kids, she thinks of the things she wants me to do and then convinces herself that I was actually part of that talk. She’ll claim that I was there when she told me to take out the trash, or to pick up

– she’s a high intensive person. She’ll also confirm that she practices

our daughter at track practice, or to be home early because her mother

conversations before she has them. She will not, however, concede that

was stopping by for coffee and I needed to get the unidentified hand

my answers are sometimes figments of her imagination.

prints off the couch cushions (or at least flip them). She never told me

“I swear I am talking to a wall half the time,” my wife told me the other day, blowing out a long steady, frustrated stream of breath in my direction. “Are those walls padded?” I asked. She wasn’t amused.

I’d be lying if I said that I pay attention to everything she says. Lord

her mother was on the way. I wouldn’t have forgotten that. I would have been in my hiding place.

My wife will even recite back comments and answers I supposedly gave during her mythical talk times. It usually begins with a statement

knows I tend to drift when the conversation turns to housework or her

from me, like: “You never told me to change the baby’s diaper.” “Yes

side of the family. But, I am always the first to admit when I have been

I did,” she’d counter, without a hint of indecision in her tone. “In fact,”

daydreaming and missed an important piece of information...like last

she’d continue, “you flat out told me that you’d ‘change the ‘dookie

week when my wife told me to pick up toilet paper on my way home

diaper’ during the next commercial.”

from work. I bought coffee filters. We hosted PTA that night.

“I’m sorry,” I said, apologizing for my error. “I was probably thinking of last night’s baseball game this morning and not listening to you. I wonder if putting coffee filters in the bathroom will startle anyone?”

See? I admitted I wasn’t listening. And,

30

But it’s a losing battle when you bring imaginary husbands into the mix.

suburban parent

“Now wait one darn minute,” I retorted. “I used the word ‘dookie?’” “Yes, and I distinctly remember feeling queasy about it.”

Unfortunately, I can’t prove I wasn’t there.

It’s bad enough that I occasionally make mistakes and drop the ball in the real world, but I can’t even get things

she appreciates

right in the land of make-

it when I do that.

believe. (sigh)

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

SP