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Suburban Parent November 2014 | FREE

of North Dallas

Nail Biting More than a bad habit!

Award Winning Publication

Dreadful Ear Infection

Hear all about it

Time for a cold

shower?

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Kids Art

Mary shares...

Giving Thanks!

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A magazine to inform, direct and inspire Latino families

ovember, the month that starts the beginning of the “giving months;” Thanksgiving and Christmas. This time of year can be exhausting to many with all the fuss for the perfect Thanksgiving meal and of course Christmas shopping.

Let’s try not to be too obsessed with the “perfect holiday”. Relax.

There are so many ways you can show your loved ones how much you love and care for them; you don’t have to worry about the perfect gift or meal.

I can say this because, I recently learned from a friend that spends time with many people in their final stages of life, that when a person is in those final stages of death and knows they are dying, the most important things to them are not what they have stored up and gathered, but rather who they love and who loves them. Possessions, wealth, or beautiful dinners always fall on the side of what doesn’t matter. Being comfortable, materially or physically, falls by the wayside. Physical appearance doesn’t matter. The only things that still matter are the things that would have mattered to Jesus: family, community, faith, spending quality time with others, etc. The superficial passes away.

So I started thinking about why would we want to wait until our last living moments to put what is truly

important to the forefront of our lives? It’s there, inside us already; we should recognize what’s truly valuable to us and we need also to instill this in our children. They need to always be reminded of what is truly important at every stage of our lives; our relationship with God and what is important to Him. Let’s reflect on that with our children, especially our teenagers who may feel that their family is not as important as self-image, popularity, and academic things. They often are of the mindset that their family will still be there some time down the road when they need them. The temptation to push all the truly important things (like family, community, faith..) to later and to store up superficial things (popularity, appearance, money) is the life they think they should lead.

So it is up to us to set an example and lovingly remind them of what is truly important.

My husband and I are so thankful when we receive a phone call in the middle of the day from our son away at college, and our younger daughter’s playful manner and her genuine love for her family and friends. And most importantly, we are thankful for God’s grace in all things, even our trials, which are many! SP

Mary Ellen

We love because He first loved us.

— 1 John 4:19

COVER MODEL Izzy, 5 years old This sweet girl shares her life with baby-sister, Adalina (1yr) and her 2 dogs. Her mom says, “The sweetest part of Izzy is her heart, she reminds us that it doesn’t matter what we look like or where we’re from, we all have hearts. She LOVES learning about Jesus and reminds me to pray each day”.

Courtney Blissett, www.bliss-photography.com

Hispanics are the cornerstone of future growth.

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Suburban Parent magazines Suburban Parent 8344 Sterling Street | Irving, Texas 75063 | 972.887.7779 editor@suburbanparent.com | advertising@suburbanparent.com Suburban Parent and Irving Parent are registered trademarks. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome.

We reserve the right to edit all submissions due to space. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission is prohibited.

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hot or cold?

Having trouble getting and staying asleep? Try a hot bath or shower before bed. The hot water will raise your body temperature and as it falls you should feel sleepier. Need a burst of energy? Take a cold shower. The cold water causes your brain to release epinephrine, which increases vigilance.

Studies show that cold showers also improve your immune system!

MORE THAN A BAD HABIT Nail biting is more than just a bad habit. It can raise the risk of catching a cold, getting skin infections or spreading warts. It’s just so hard to stop doing it, right? Here’s the thing. For most of us, nail biting is simply a sign of stress (in extreme cases, it’s a sign of OCD). But no matter how stressed you are, there are better things to do than bite your nails and mess up your manicure. Try twirling a ring or playing with a hair tie on your wrist instead. Snuggle with your cat or roll a golf ball under your bare foot. Better yet, figure out what’s making you stressed and deal with that. Don’t take it out on your fingers.

youshouldknow... a good ol’ cry While often considered a sign of weakness, crying is actually good for you.

Our bodies produce three kinds of tears, each with its own healing role: continuous tears –which keep our eyes lubricated; reflex tears –which clear out noxious particles like smoke or exhaust; and emotional tears – which release stress hormones and toxins that build up in the body during a stressful or sad situation. Crying emotional tears is our body’s way of calming itself down. Some studies suggest that crying stimulates the production of endorphins, our body’s natural pain killer. That’s why crying makes us feel better, even when a problem still persists. So while crying won’t fix the problem, it can help us get through the problem. So don’t hold your tears in. Go ahead and cry. Then get up and get on with it!

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NO to Pillows Pillows are great – for grownups. But babies – they don’t need them. In fact, pillows are not recommended for children under 2 at all. Pillows can block a baby’s nose and mouth causing suffocation. The Consumer Product Safety Commission says that “bare is best” for your baby’s sleep environment. Nearly half of the infant crib deaths and two thirds of bassinet deaths reported to them each year are suffocations caused by pillows, thick quilts and/or overcrowding in the baby’s sleeping space. Even though you may think it will be more comfortable for your kiddo, don’t give them a pillow until they move to a toddler bed.

They sleep just fine without them.

momsolvers

questions...

ANNIE, NEW MOM OF 1

PETER, DAD OF 1 PRE-TEEN.

PATRICIA, MOM OF 1 MONTH OLD

Q I would like to continue my col-

Q My good friend’s daughter ran

Q I have heard that a colicky baby

asks...

asks...

lege education. What would I look for in an online program?

a

away recently, she is safe now. How can I be certain my child will never want to do this.

Two key elements are critical for success in an online program - a high caliber program and a strong support structure. Look for a program that offers classes led by the same faculty that teaches at the ground school. At Arizona State University, for example, online classes are taught by the same faculty that teach on campus. Also, make sure the program offers a variety of ways to communicate: with professors, discussion boards, peer chats and live-streamed lectures. And for moms, it’s truly a team effort. Understanding that online programs require a great deal of balance, commitment and discipline, a steady support system from family and friends is essential.

a

DARI BARDLEY, Senior Coordinator for ASU Online Student Services and mom of 5

MAUREEN BLAHA, Executive Director of the National Runaway Safeline

ask...

the cardiologist J. DOUGLAS OVERBECK MD, FACC

Prevention is key and it can start today!

There are a handful of ways parents can help and one of those is to always stay attentive to your child. PAY ATTENTION: Listen when your child is talking with you. Look at them! It shows them that they are important.

DISCUSS FEELINGS: When parents share their feelings, children know it is safe to share their own. UNDERSTAND YOUR CHILD: Try to sympathize with what your children are going through. Look at life – at least occasionally – from their point of view. Remember when you were their age your ideas seemed to make sense.

asks...

could be managed with Chiropractic adjustments?

a

Babies experiencing colic respond wonderfully to chiropractic care! Today our babies are presenting with nervous systems that are taxed from physical and chemical stressors from pregnancy and birth. Gentle and specific adjustments address the tension stored in the neuro-spinal system. This allows for their body to express symptoms of calm and ease, giving their bodies the ability to do what they were designed to do in the beginning stage of life: eat, sleep, poop, repeat…oh, and snuggle of course. Having your baby checked by a pediatric chiropractor can make all the difference in the world not just for baby, but for the whole family.

DENISA WEBER, DC Serving Life Chiropractic

Q

I HAVE LARGE BLUE ROPE-LIKE VEINS ON MY CALVES THAT ARE UGLY. MY FRIEND SAID THAT THERE ARE WAYS TO REMOVE THEM NOW WITHOUT GOING THROUGH PAINFUL VEIN STRIPPING? Fortunately, new minimally-invasive therapies are now available to treat varicose veins, such as Radiofrequency Ablation. These are in-office procedures that take about an hour. Patients experience little to no pain and walk out of the office. Most insurances and Medicare typically cover the procedures. And, of note, varicose veins aren’t just unsightly, they are potentially harmful. Left untreated, they may cause skin damage, ulcers, and swelling. If you have painful varicose veins, talk to your doctor today about a non-surgical treatment.

J. Douglas Overbeck, MD, FACC is a Las Colinas-based cardiologist with more than 20 years experience in providing cardiac care to patients in North Texas. He is the founder of the Tuscan Cardiovascular Center and Tuscan Vein Center in Las Colinas and also primary cardiologist for the Medical & Surgical Clinic of Irving.

EMAIL YOUR QUESTIONS to editor@suburbanparent.com, subject “questions” or SUBMIT QUESTIONS ON FACEBOOK.COM/MOMSOLVERS. Either way, we’ll find answers!

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THANKSGIVING

photo props kit 7 Bracelets... with a story LIS GIRÒN

Have fun with your family photos this Thanksgiving. This kit makes 15 photo props. The kit includes pre-cut shapes, assorted papers, templates and wooden dowels. All you need is a pair of scissors, a glue stick, small glue dots, 1/4” hole punch and a pencil. Give thanks for silly photos with Thanksgiving themed props!

FIND IT: www.papersource.com $14.95

Lis believes everyone is born with creativity. Her inspiration comes from a mixture of her inner child and the mystical people of the indigenous communities she works with. She loves to combine fashion trends with ancestral techniques from the Guatemalan rural communities. Lis wants everyone to “Believe in their dreams and make them come true.”

FIND IT: www.uncommongoods.com $35

A Personalized

Be On Guard!

This cold and flu season protect yourself from the hand-to-hand spread of germs with GermBloc Alcohol-Free Hand Sanitizer! This sanitizer protects your hands from germs and bacteria without harmful, adverse effects of alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Comes in spray, lotion, foam and even convenient carabineer bottles, perfect for attaching to kids’ backpacks.

FIND IT: www.germbloc.com $4 and up

book of their own

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But the real magic lies in the personalization. Every name creates its own unique, personalized tale featuring an incredible cast of different characters. The books: “The Little Girl Who Lost Her Name” and “The Little Boy Who Lost His Name,” tell the story of a child who sets off on a spectacular adventure to track down all the missing letters of their name. Kids will love to meet the glamorous Ostrich, sleep-deprived Bear, a Viking who yearns to bake and a Zebra torn between spots and stripes – and many, many more. Each book is printed on thick, environmentally-friendly paper and bound by hand. Suitable for children aged 2-7, and shipping is free!

FIND IT: www.lostmy.name $27.99

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moMENts

BY PATRICK HEMPFING

A Giraffe, a Fish, and a Bear

S

ometimes a good story falls right into my lap … or in this case, jumps into my lap.

Before I tell my story, though, I want to share the reasons why I write. First, it’s a way to earn income, while keeping a flexible schedule (I’m typing this at 2:30 a.m.).

Second, it feels great to brighten someone’s day, even if it’s just by giving a few minutes of enjoyable reading. I love when readers respond to my column by sharing happy memories of their own. Third, time flies by.

Mattie, my wife, recently asked, “Do you realize our baby is already halfway to eighteen?”

As I remind readers to “cherish the moments,” I’m prompting myself to do the same with my daughter during life’s hectic days. Last, and most importantly, my writings create a permanent record of the incredible love I hold for Jessie. When she reads the stories in years to come, she’ll remember the great times and know how much her parents treasured her. It’s time for one of those stories, but be forewarned, one part would not be classified as “great,” especially from a male perspective.

I’m a light sleeper. If Jessie calls me from her bedroom on the other side of the house, I’ll wake up about 90% of the time. Recently, however, one of the 10% times occurred.

Jessie had a bad dream and called, “Daddy!”

When daddy didn’t show up, Jessie decided to run to her parents’ bedroom. She brought along her stuffed animals, Genie, the giraffe, and Sam, short for Samantha, her fish. To summarize, at a few minutes after 1 a.m., an 83 lb., frightened girl, toting a fish and a giraffe, ran frantically into the master bedroom and made a flying leap onto her daddy. Still groggy, I tried to calm Jessie.

“Calm down, calm down. It’s okay. Calm down before somebody gets hurt!” About

three seconds later, that somebody was me, as Jessie’s knee landed … well, let’s just say that had I known this was coming, I would have gone to bed wearing the protective cup I used during my church-softball-playing days. This is the “not great” part of the story to which I referred earlier.

When Jessie calmed down, she snuggled in between Mattie and me, with one arm around Genie and Sam, and fell asleep. Once I’m awake, though, I have a tough time falling back to sleep, especially after being awakened by 83 pounds of blunt force trauma, followed by a swift knee in the groin. I turned over on my side, hoping to catch a few winks.

However, instead of finding sleep, I was goosed … by a bear. I erred when I thought Jessie only brought Genie and Sam. She had also carried her bear, Cuddles. Thank goodness it wasn’t a Unicorn.

I knew I wouldn’t be falling back to sleep anytime soon, so I left Jessie in bed with Mattie and went to the living room to read and soon drifted off in my recliner. Later, I moved to the sofa and slept there before getting up to take the dog for her morning walk.

After a brisk walk, a yawning dad went to wake Jessie for school. As I looked down at my sleeping family,

@PatrickHempfing

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one word came to mind – thankful (okay, “tired” would have worked, too). Jessie had maintained her position in the middle of the bed with Mattie on one side, and Genie, Sam, and Cuddles on the other. The three stuffed animals were resting comfortably on my favorite pillow. Cuddles and Genie looked up at me with their stitched smiles. I smiled back.

Sure, Mattie and I had been deprived of a little sleep. However, we had received an opportunity to show Jessie that we are always there for her, to protect, comfort, and love her. Jessie’s flying leap reminded me to be thankful for the opportunities I have to make a difference as a dad (though I’d prefer future ones to be pain-free).

This leads me to one final reason why I write. Writing is therapeutic for this sleep-deprived father.

Until next month, remember to cherish the moments, even if you’re awakened by a bony-kneed kid, goosed by a bear, and lose your favorite pillow to a group of stuffed animals.

Happy Thanksgiving! SP Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year professional career in banking, accounting, and auditing before he became a father at age 44. He is now a full-time husband, stay-at-home dad and writer.

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C

Hear All About It A Guide to Ear Infections

BY COLLEEN WRIGHT

old season is here, and along with it come those dreadful ear infections. Did you know they’re the most common reason parents bring their young children to the doctor?

While nobody is immune to middle ear infections, they’re especially rampant among children aged three and younger. That’s partly because the tube that drains fluid from their ears is smaller and more level, making it easy for fluid to build up. Once fluid gets trapped behind the eardrum, it can easily get infected.

If your child hasn’t experienced an ear infection yet, you’re in the minority: 75 percent of children experience at least one infection by their third birthday, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD).

Become more familiar with the process by learning about the following signs, symptoms, treatment and pitfalls.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS The classic infection is accompanied by fever and earache. If your child is too young to explain what’s wrong, look for these signs as noted by the CDC: fever, pulling at the ears, fluid draining from ears, trouble sleeping, headaches, trouble hearing, irritability and clumsiness due to trouble balancing. Ear infections often follow colds, so if he’s had one recently, your suspicions may be right. A trip to the pediatrician will let you know for sure.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT The doctor will look in your child’s ears with a lighted otoscope and check for the telltale redness and swelling. If she’s not positive there’s an infection, and there’s no fever or severe earache, then she may send you home to see if it gets better on its own within a day or two. This is according to guidelines about prescribing antibiotics to young children, set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. In addition, if the infection is caused by a virus, antibiotics won’t be prescribed because they won’t help.

If you’re sent home and there’s no improvement, it’s important to follow up with another doctor’s visit to ensure that your child’s ears remain healthy.

If you do get a positive diagnosis, your child will likely start a seven or 10 day course of antibiotics such as amoxicillin, and should feel better within a few days. If he doesn’t feel better, it’s possible he needs different antibiotics—and another trip to the pediatrician.

Once the ear infection is treated, trapped fluid typically disappears in three to six weeks, and any related hearing loss is restored.

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TRAPPED FLUID: WHAT TO WATCH FOR Larger problems may arise when the infection goes away but fluid doesn’t drain, or when fluid initially builds up behind the eardrum with no related infection. That means the trapped fluid still impairs hearing, but there are no obvious signs that something is wrong. This can be allergy-related and clear up on its own. If it doesn’t, children can go on for months with fluid in the middle ear and difficulty hearing.

Built-up fluid causes an average (temporary) hearing loss of 24 decibels, or the equivalent of wearing ear plugs, according to The American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery. Thicker AUDIOLOGIST: specialfluid can cause a larger hearing loss, to the ist that gives hearing point that it’s difficult to hear conversatests and analyzes the tions. If this happens repeatedly over an results to treat hearing extended period of time, delays in speech and balance problems. and language skills could result.

Audiologists are often If you suspect prolonged fluid build-up the first specialists you’ll is causing problems, talk to your pediatrisee when your pediatrician and note any of the following signs, cian suspects a problem. outlined by the American Speech-Hear-

Vocabulary of an Ear Infection

ing-Language Association: pulling or scratching the ears, inattentiveness, wanting the television louder than usual, misunderstanding directions, listlessness and unexplained irritability.

In addition to looking in the ear with an otoscope, the pediatrician can use a similar-looking tool to check for fluid behind the ear by blowing a small puff of air into it and seeing if the eardrum is able to move easily. If there’s still a question, she can use a more complex device called a tympanometer to measure flexibility of the eardrum at different pressures. Depending on the outcome, you may be referred to an audiologist or ear, nose and throat doctor (ENT) for more evaluations.

WHAT IF MY CHILD GETS MULTIPLE INFECTIONS? In cases of chronic fluid build-up that impairs hearing or causes multiple infections (five or more in a year), an ENT may decide to have small tubes placed in the eardrum. These tubes ventilate the ear and prevent fluid from accumulating.

This is a minor outpatient surgical procedure done under general anesthesia at the hospital. Tubes typically fall out on their own after six months to two years, depending on the tubes. Follow-up with an ENT will confirm whether the problem is still present. If it is, the procedure may need to be done again.

PREVENTION

OTOLARYNGOLOGIST OR ENT: a physician trained in the medical and surgical treatment of ear infections, hearing loss, balance disorders and other problems related to the ear, nose and throat.

EUSTACHIAN TUBE: the tube that carries fluid from the middle ear to the back of the throat.

It helps drain fluid and keeps the pressure inside the ear the same as on the outside. When pressure outside the ear becomes different than on the outside, as happens on an airplane, it makes it harder to hear.

MIDDLE EAR: the eardrum plus three small bones that vibrate to amplify sound and send it to the inner ear.

ACUTE OTITIS MEDIA: technical term for a middle ear infection.

OTITIS MEDIA WITH EFFUSION: buildup of fluid in the middle ear, without infection. It can be caused by viruses, allergies, cigarette smoke and other irritants.

One of the easiest ways to prevent ear infections is by reducing your child’s chances of getting colds and the flu. Hand washing and flu shots are a great start.

The CDC also suggests not laying babies down to sleep with bottles, and limiting exposure to cigarette smoke, as studies show that second-hand smoke increases the risk.

Take these precautions and your child just might be one of the lucky ones to make it through the winter infection-free. SP

Colleen Wright is the work-at-home mom of a spirited preschooler, and has become all too familiar with ear infections.

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the

{ Your Community Calendar } November 2014

know it all

SP = Advertisers

sat 1

Inaugural All Souls 5K Remembrance Run 8am. Mark your calendar

and plan to join us on the St. Mark campus for our first ever “All Souls Remembrance 5K Run” benefiting our Athletic Department! There will be a 1K “fun run” starting at 8am, followed by a 5K at 8:30am. Strollers and wheelchairs are welcome in both categories.

Registration includes a commemorative t-shirt, and prizes will be awarded to the top finishers. Personalize your race t-shirt as you run in memory of a loved one for All Souls Day, a day designated for lifting up prayers for the departed in our Catholic tradition. Follow the link below to the registration page. St. Mark Catholic School, 1201 Alma Drive, Plano, 972-578-0610, www.allsoulsrun.com.

Sensory Saturdays 10:30am.Come play, create, and explore with a variety of activities designed to stimulate the senses and build up the brain! Ideal for ages 1–6. Come and go, Free, All Ages.

Plano, Haggard Library, 2051 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250.

ManeGait’s 5th Annual Gaitapalooza 11am-4pm. Come join us for carnival food, fun and games at our 5th Annual Gaitapalooza fundraiser!

Gaitapalooza will give our riders the opportunity to get out of the arena and out into the range! Bring the whole family to cheer on our riders and enjoy a carnival with face painting, pony rides, a petting zoo and more!

ManeGait, 3160 N. Custer Road, McKinney, 469-742-9611, manegait.org.

Saturday Night Rec-n-Roll 7-11pm.

Joe Farmer Recreation Center is hosting a fun and safe social program every Saturday for students in 3rd through 6th grade. Gym games, music, dancing, dodge ball, pool, table tennis, theme nights, contests and prizes. Supervision is provided and concessions are available. An identification card (annual $5 fee) is required to participate. Walk up admission available for $10 at the door.

Joe Farmer Recreation Center, 1201 E. Bethany Dr., Allen, 214-509-4750.

Hansel & Gretel Runs Sept. 27-Nov. 23. Visit the website for specific dates and show times. The Story: Geppetto’s retelling offers an amusing take on the Grimm Brothers’ classic fairytale. Join the familiar pair of siblings and their pet goat, Willy as they venture into the woods to find berries for supper. Here they encounter Sandor the Sandman, a host of forest creatures, Guardian Angels and of course -- the kooky candy witch, Lady Rosina Sweettooth! After the show, we invite all patrons to step behind the scenes to a special viewing area that they can see how the puppets are manipulated from the scaffolding high above the stage. Questions may be asked of the puppeteers and photos taken with the marionettes. Geppetto’s Marionette Theater in the Hilton Anatole, 2201 N. Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, 469-442-1925, geppettostheater.com.

Autumn at the Arboretum

Through Nov. 26. Over 50,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash come together to form the nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village. A multitude of special events are also available throughout the week including a hay bale maze, scavenger hunts and the Tom Thumb pumpkin patch. Autumn is the perfect time of year for a picnic in the gardens with friends, a fun family photo, or a leisurely walk among 150,000 blooming fall flowers such as chrysanthemums and impatiens. The fall foliage, cool weather and deep colors make Autumn at the Arboretum a must-see. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, 214-515-6615, www.dallasarboretum.org.

sun 2 Readers and Waggers at the Davis Library 3-4pm. Readers and Waggers (independent readers entering grades 1-5) – Bring your favorite book from home or choose one from the library, and read it to a Heart of Texas Therapy Dog. Free tickets are required to attend– available first come-first

served at the children’s desk 30 minutes prior to the program. FREE, Grades 1-5 Plano, Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000.

Faith Lutheran School of Plano Open House 3-4pm. Faith Lutheran School in Plano will be conducting an open house on to show case the school’s K-12 and early childhood preschool programs. Families interested in the school will meet the headmaster and teaching staff, tour the facilities and enjoy light refreshments. Faith Lutheran School, 1701 E. Park Blvd., Plano, 972423-7448, www.flsplano.org.

Dallas Cowboys vs. Arizona Cardinals 12pm. AT&T Stadium, 925 N. Collins St., Arlington, 817-892-5000, www.dallascowboys.com.

mon 3 Novel Knitters 7pm. Share knitting tips, learn to knit, bring your project.

Free, Adults. Plano, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250.

Hindi-English Bilingual Storytime 7-8pm. Enjoy stories from India and beyond. We will feature rhymes and songs in Hindi, learn some Hindi vocabulary, and make a fun craft. Free, All Ages. Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000, www.planolibrary.org.

tue 4 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, www.wylietexas.gov.

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Tutoring Tuesdays at the Harrington Library 6-7:30pm. Free

tutoring help is available every Tuesday night 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.

Space is limited. Register in person at Harrington Library starting August 11.

Free, Grades 1-12. No class November 25th. Harrington Library, 1501 18th St., Plano, 972-941-7175.

wed 5 Genealogy: Scouting for Military Records 9:30-11am. Learn what databases, books, & other sources are available to locate your ancestors Free Adults. Haggard Library-Plano, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250.

Elementary School Science Fair Resource Night 5-7pm. Need Science Fair Resources? Don’t panic!

We’ve got your back. Enjoy a demonstration of science related databases, and a tour of science fair resources from a librarian. For students and parents/guardians. Free All Ages. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy., Plano, 972-769-4300.

Intro to EV3 Robotics 2-5pm. Have you been wondering what all this LEGO robotics stuff is about? Want to try before you buy for your kids? Or do you just want to play around with LEGOs yourself? Get hands on with the EV3 Lego Mindstorms kits with a build session and learn the basics. Registration required. Registration opens two weeks prior to session. Free Adults.

Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000.

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the know it all thu 6 McKinney Farmers Market at Adriatica Local and organic meat, dairy, honey and produce vendors offer their wares every Thursday at Adriatica on McKinney’s west side.

Market vendors also offer sauces, canned goods, pasta, baked goods, wine and flowers! Open 3pm-7pm or until sellout, 6851 Virginia Pkwy, McKinney, www.chestnutsquare.org.

Teen Book Club at the Smith Public Library 6-7pm. For teens in 6th-12th grades only. Snacks and drinks are provided. Check our website or stop by the Teen Room for more information and to register. Nov. 6: Stargirl

by Jerry Spinelli. Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Wylie, 972-5166250, www.wylietexas.gov.

Parent Workshop: Path Project: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder 6-7:30pm. Understand the diagnosis of ADHD and learn ways to assist children with ADHD in school, at home and in the community. Free. Audience: Adults. Harrington Library, 1501 18th Street, Plano, 972-941-7175.

Strong Teens & Teens Taking Action: Mental Health-Ending the Silence 7-8pm. Learn about Ending the Silence, a program focused on prevention and early intervention in mental health issues. Engaging in discussion reduces stigma by providing accurate information, promoting understanding, dispelling myths, and encouraging personal contact. Putting a human face to mental illness provides hope that recovery is possible. Both sessions presented by the National Alliance of Mental Illness. Parents and teens are invited to attend Separate programs at the same time. Conversations facilitated by experts on a variety of topics. Teens may earn one volunteer hour from Volunteers in Plano per program attended.

Individuals welcome, parent/teen combination not required. Free, Grades 6-12 & Adults. Plano, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250.

The Writing Life with Jade Lee 7-8:30pm. The author of the Tigress and Bridal Favor series answers your questions about what it’s really like to be an author with a career that spans more than 30 novels. A signing follows and books will be available for purchase Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Bldg 300, Wylie, 972-516-6250, www.wylietexas.gov/departments/library/index/index.php.

First Thursday Late Night at Perot Museum: Green Burial 7-9pm.

Film screening tickets are limited, reserving your complimentary tickets in advance is recommended. View a special screening of A Will for the Woods,

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an award-winning documentary exploring one man’s journey and preparation for his own green burial. Stay after for an exclusive discussion about the film and the environmental and social issues surrounding the green burial movement with the filmmakers and a guest from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. *This documentary is not rated.

Due to the thematic nature of the content around death and dying, it is not recommended for young children.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science, 2201 N. Field Street, Dallas, 214-4285555, www.perotmuseum.org.

fri 7 Story Time at the Interurban Railway Museum Every Friday morning at 10:30 in the lobby of the historic Interurban Railway Museum in downtown Plano, spellbound children take a magical train ride through the tales of professional storyteller Genie Hammel and her sidekicks. Her stories arouse their curiosity to explore the rest of the museum, especially its model train display and interactive exhibits based on the principals of electricity used to power the Texas Electric Railway cars. There’s even an opportunity to board Interurban Rail Car 360, manufactured in 1911, just outside the train station for an imaginary trip down the line. A parent or guardian must accompany all children. Large groups should call 972-241-2117 to ensure a spot in this highly popular program.

Admission is free, but donations are always welcome! Plano Interurban Railway Museum, 901 E 15st St, Plano, 972-9412117, www.planoconservancy.org.

Home School Open Skate 12:452:45pm. Come out for Home School Open Skate, exclusively for children who are home schooled. Have fun and experience a new life-ling interest. Open to home school students every first and third Friday. Allen Community Ice Rink, 200 E. Stacy Road, Allen, 972-912-1097.

sat 8 Open House at Eldorado Montessori 10am-2pm Eldorado Montessori, 11600 Teel Pkwy., Frisco, 972-334-9444, www.eldoradomontessori.com. See ad in this issue.

EV3 Family Freestyle Robotics 1-5pm. In this freestyle session, you get to pick which robot you want to build!

One registration per family required.

Registration opens two weeks prior to session. Free All Ages Haggard Library-Plano, 2501 Coit Rd., Plano, 972769-4250.

Big Wheels: America Recycles Day 3-4pm, Celebrate America Recycles Day by learning how recycling

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

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• Children 18 months — 6 years old • Full day or part time programs are available • We offer 3 different languages throughout daily lessons (English, Chinese, Spanish)

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registration fee and 10% off your first month's tuition with this ad

• Certified Teachers have over 20 years experience • ** After School Program: Pick up from Plano ISD schools (K - 5th grade) • ** Weekend Chinese School (PreK - 8th grade)

Our extra-curricular activities include: PACE prep class, Chinese dance lessons, art, piano, and chess. We have a soccer field, security cameras throughout, and a vegetable garden.

www.fbcplano.org/wds

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

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the know it all helps to conserve the earth’s precious resources, up-cycle household materials into a fun craft, and dump a cart on a Plano recycling truck! Free All Ages Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000.

Family Movie at the Parr Library 3-5pm. Family Movie – Despicable Me (PG, 95 min) Enjoy a movie with your family with snacks from home! FREE, All Ages. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy., Plano, 972-769-4300.

Bingo/Game Night PLUS 6-11pm.

We’ll have a blast playing good ole fashioned BINGO and winning FUN prizes.

PLUS, a new fun family connect activity!

Connect with your family over the value of the month and we’ll send you home with a tool to elevate that value at home, too! Bring your own dinner or enjoy drinks/snacks from the $1 café.

(EVERY second Saturday!)This Side Up! Family Center provides affordable fun, cultivates strong relationships, encourages diverse community, equips families and champions family values. This Side Up! Family Center, 1100 Capital Ave, Plano, www.thissideupfamily.org.

Second Saturdays in Historic Downtown McKinney 7-10pm.

The community and beyond enjoy an evening of art, music, food and spirits every second Saturday in Downtown McKinney. Guests can explore local art galleries, listen to great local and regional talent and taste specialties in some of the area’s best eateries. Many establishments in Downtown McKinney will keep their doors open from 7-10 p.m. Historic Downtown McKinney, 111 N. Tennessee St., McKinney, www.mckinneytexas.org.

Saturday Night Rec-n-Roll 7-11pm.

Joe Farmer Recreation Center is hosting a fun and safe social program every Saturday for students in 3rd through 6th grade. Gym games, music, dancing, dodge ball, pool, table tennis, theme nights, contests and prizes. Supervision is provided and concessions are available. An identification card (annual $5 fee) is required to participate. Walk up admission available for $10 at the door.

Joe Farmer Recreation Center, 1201 E. Bethany Dr., Allen, 214-509-4750.

Arlington Archosaur Site Tour 9:15am-12pm. Explore a major dinosaur excavation site in the middle of a large metropolitan area. The Arlington Archosaur Site (AAS) contains fossils of a near complete ecosystem. The site is not open to the public, the Bob Jones Nature Center is partnering with AAS for this special opportunity. Tour will run from 10 to 11:15am. Please be prepared to meet at the Nature Center at 9:15am. Sign up as soon as possible using the link below. This tour is only for persons aged 15+. Bob Jones Nature Center, 355 Bob Jones Road, Southlake, 817-491-6333, www.eventbrite.com/e/ arlington-archosaur-site-tour-registration-13488461351.

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sun 9 Half-Day Group Photo Safari at the Dallas Zoo 8am-12pm. Capture amazing shots of wild and exotic animals in their naturalistic habitats with Dallas Zoo staff photographer Cathy Burkey. With help from zookeepers and guidance and tips from Cathy, you’re guaranteed excellent photos of animals foraging for their breakfast, romping and playing, and exhibiting other natural behaviors. You’ll meet at 8 a.m. for a continental breakfast, then set out to explore some of the Zoo’s most interesting and charismatic animals.

Groups are limited to 15 participants to ensure individual attention. The session concludes at noon, and participants are welcome to stay at the Zoo for the day.

Cost per person: $45 for members; $55 for non-members. For more information or to make a reservation: Contact Cathy Burkey at 469-554-7423 or Cathy.Burkey@DallasZoo.com. Dallas Zoo, 650 S. RL Thornton Freeway, Dallas, 469-5547423, www.dallaszoo.com

mon 10 Math in Action: Grade 4 Nov. 10-

17. 6-7:30pm. Improve basic math skills in this new hands-on program featuring manipulatives and tutoring help geared for struggling students in 4th grade.

Workbooks will be provided. Registration required. Registration opens two weeks prior to each session. Free. Plano, Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Rd., Plano, 972-769-4200.

tue 11 Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano November Meeting 9:3011:30am. Get into a festive mood and join Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano for refreshments, a holiday cooking demonstration and presentation, “Holiday Creations: Flavors that Dazzle the Eye and Palate,” by Christy Rost, PBS Chef, cookbook author, media personality, entertaining guru, and lifestyle authority. Ms. Rost is a PBS Chef, cookbook author, cooking teacher, television and radio personality, entertaining guru, and lifestyle authority. She will present a holiday cooking demonstration and an inspiring discussion based on her latest book, Celebrating Home, A Handbook for Gracious Living. Formerly the host of her own long-running Texas cooking and lifestyle series, Just Like Home, Christy’s expertise in celebrating home and family is extensive.

Christy has been interviewed by Oprah. com and Martha Stewart Radio, and is a frequent guest on several television stations, including FOX – 4 in Dallas.

Free. SMU, Plano, 5228 Tennyson Pkwy, Plano, 972-608-8924, www.newcomerfriends.org.

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the know it all La Leche League Plano 10:3011:30am. Room 122. LEADER INFORMATION: Beth 972-747-1297; Cleo cleo6924@aol.com; Lynnee 469-8550647 lmburns30@sbcglobal.net.

Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 3601 W 15th St, Plano, www.texaslll.org.

Puppet Show: Rhyming Dust Bunnies 11am & 7pm. Listen to some stories and watch a puppet show. Free, All Ages. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy., Plano, 972-769-4300.

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

Junior Robotics: Sailboat Storm 3:30-5pm. Learn about gears, levers and sensors as you build a rocking sailboat toughing it out in the middle of a furious storm! Registration required. Registration opens two weeks prior to each session.

Free Ages 7-9 Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000.

Second Tuesday Book Club 7:158:30pm. Read and discuss the featured book: Behind the Beautiful Forevers: Life, Death and Hope in a Mumbai Undercity by Katherine Boo. FREE, Adults.

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

Dallas Mavericks vs. Sacramento Kings 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave, Dallas, 214-2223687, www.mavs.com.

wed 12 My Very Own Book Club at the Smith Public Library 3:30-4:30pm.

My Very Own Book Club is for 1st, 2nd & 3rd graders. Kids are encouraged to read the book on their own time and then come to the meeting for discussion and a craft. Sign up at the Children’s desk. Participation is limited, but all participants get a free copy of the book.

Nov. 12 & 14 The Gardner by Sarah Stewart. Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Wylie, 972-516-6250, www. wylietexas.gov.

Twisted Threads at the Allen Public Library 6:30-8pm. Do you knit? Or crochet? Or make spectacular things with thread and yarn? If so, 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 work on it in the company of other fiber crafters. Allen Public

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Library, 300 N. Allen Dr., Allen, 214.5094904, www.cityofallen.org.

thu 13 ICE! At Gaylord Texan featuring Frosty the Snowman Runs through Jan. 3, 2015.

Everyone’s favorite snowman comes to life in more than 2 million pounds of colorful hand-carved ice sculptures.

Don’t miss this nine degree winter wonderland with six ice slides! It’s all part of a Lone Star Christmas. Tickets start at $21.99 (ages 13+) and $11.00 (ages 4-12). Gaylord Texan Resort, 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine, 817-778-1000, Christmasatgaylordtexan.com. See ad in this issue.

Photoshop 101 6-8pm. Learn the basics of Adobe Photoshop. Registration required. Registration opens two weeks prior to each session. Free, Ages 13 & up Plano, Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy., Plano, 972-769-4300.

Choosing to be Happier 7-8:30pm.

“Happiness” is the latest buzzword.

Come explore what that means for you and how to make empowered choices to be happier. Presented by Rabbi Jeffrey Leynor. Free Adults Plano, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250.

The Singing Men of North Central Texas 7pm. Organized in 1974, this combination of six regional choirs is composed primarily of music ministers and music directors associated with area churches. Entertainment Series of Irving presents the group at the Arts Center in a performance of gospel hymns, music from the Ukraine and a patriotic tribute to our men and women of the Armed Forces. Carpenter Hall. $20 Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving, Texas, 972-252-2787, www.irvingartscenter.com.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Philadelphia 76ers 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave, Dallas, 214-2223687, www.mavs.com.

fri 14 Informational Parent Coffee at The Guthrie School 9am.

Find out more about our elite academic programs that prepare students to excel at the next level. Please RSVP. The Guthrie School, 598 Old Custer Rd, Allen, 972-596-6929, www.guthrieschool.com. Sww ad in this issue.

Irving Arts Center Presents Junie B in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells Give thanks for Junie B and a heartwarming tale about giving that is just in time for the holidays. Show times at 9:30

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the know it all & 11:30am. Tickets $7.50 each or $6.00 for groups of 10 or more. For details call 972252-2787 or visit irvingartscenter.com.

Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving.

Puppet Show: Rhyming Dust Bunnies 11am. Listen to some stories and watch a puppet show. Free, 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. November: Calling Me Home by Julie Kibler. Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Wylie, 972-516-6250, www.wylietexas.gov/departments/library/index/index.php.

SNAP Dance in Allen 7-10pm. Come SNAP your fingers and shuffle your feet at our Special Needs Adapted Program!

Dances feature live music, a fun and creative theme, snacks and a commemorative photo that is mailed to each participant’s home! Each dance takes place the second Friday of every month. Register early, the fee increases to $15 at 5 p.m. the Wednesday prior to each dance. Upcoming SNAP Dance Themes: November 14-Country Friday, December 12-Holiday.

Recreation Hall, 105 S. Anna Dr., Allen, 214.509-4707, www.cityofallen.org.

sat 15 Job Search Seminar at the Davis Library 10am-12pm. Job Search Seminar – Get tips on creating your resume and preparing for a successful interview. Learn about our online Job Center that can help you research businesses, find a job online, improve your e-skills, and more! FREE, Adults. Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, www.plano.gov.

Family Robotics: Flying Bird 10am-4:30pm. Sessions at 10am, 1pm and 3:30pm. Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250.

International Game Day at the Harrington Library 3-5pm. Drop by the library and play your favorite games: card, board or electronic!

Harrington Library, 1501 18th St., Plano, 972-941-7175, www.planolibrary.org.

mecaldwell.tsfl.com

Saturday Night Rec-n-Roll 7-11pm.

Joe Farmer Recreation Center is hosting a fun and safe social program every Saturday for students in 3rd through 6th grade. Gym games, music, dancing, dodge ball, pool, table tennis, theme nights, contests and prizes. Supervision is provided and concessions are available. An identification card (annual $5 fee) is required to participate. Walk up admission available for $10 at the door.

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Joe Farmer Recreation Center, 1201 E. Bethany Dr., Allen, 214-509-4750.

Dallas Opera Family Concert 2pm.

The Dallas Opera’s Family Concert is a parade of opera’s greatest hits! Opera fans of all ages will hear a variety of types of arias and overtures. You may recognize many of them! The Family Concert features the Dallas Opera Orchestra. Be sure to come early to enjoy family activities in the lobby beginning at 12:30pm! Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora Street, Dallas, 214-443-1043. www. dallasopera.org/family.

Family Funday – Metal Embossing (Peruvian Gold event) 2pm’.

Families are invited to use the free supplies at the creation station to practice metal embossing techniques with inspiration from the Peruvian Gold: Ancient Treasures Unearthed exhibition.

2-4 p.m. Free. (Ticket is required for entry into the Peruvian Gold exhibition.)

Irving Arts Center, 3333 N MacArthur Blvd., Irving, Texas, 972-252-7558, www. irvingartscenter.com.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Timberwolves 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave, Dallas, 214222-3687, www.mavs.com.

sun 16 Hansel and Gretel 1:30pm. Enjoy this wonderful retelling of The Brothers Grimm fairy tale of parents, children, and witches. Hansel and Gretel stray from the path which invariably leads you to a Witch’s gingerbread house. Hansel and Gretel outsmart the Witch and find that the real treasure is family and home. Produced by Theatre IV. Book and lyrics by Douglas S. Jones and music

by Ron Barnett. The Eismann Center, 2351 Performance Dr., Richardson, www. eismanncenter.com.

Mobile App Development Workshops 1:30-4:30pm. This introductory 3-hour workshop will be a combination of presentations and hands-on training, and does not require any programming background! Each student will create their own app and leave with the necessary tools to make more complex Android Mobile Apps. Presented in partnership with OASiS Texas & TiE. Participants need to bring their own laptop and charger and are also encouraged to bring an Android device and USB connector if possible. Registration required.

Registration opens two weeks prior to each session. Free, grades 6-12. Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000, www.planolibrary.org.

Family Robotics: WeDo: Drawbridge 6-8pm. Use a worm gear configuration and a motion sensor to build a mechanical drawbridge that moves up and down. One registration per family

required. Registration opens two weeks prior to each session. Free All Ages Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy, Plano, 972-208-8000.

Marie 972-800-9216 mamasmilk13@ gmail.com. First United Methodist Church, 315 N. Church St, McKinney, www.texaslll.org.

mon 17

Brown Bag Book Club at the Parr Library 12-1:30pm. Read and discuss

Math in Action: Grade 4 6-7:30pm.

Improve basic math skills in this new hands-on program featuring manipulatives and tutoring help geared for struggling students in 4th grade. Workbooks will be provided. Registration required. Registration opens two weeks prior to each session. Free. Plano, Schimelpfenig Library, 5024 Custer Rd., Plano, 972-769-4200.

tue 18 Teen Anime Club 5-6:30pm. Do you watch anime? Read manga? Cosplay at conventions? Whether you are new to the world of Japanese animation or a long-time fan, join us as we watch anime, discuss our favorite characters and series, and create crafts and other fan art together. Free, Grades 6-12. Plano, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250.

Super Science: The Great Fossil Find 7-8:30pm. The Great Fossil Find – Fossils can teach us about our past as we look at the bones of different animals. We’ll play a fossil guessing game and assemble our own dinosaur skeletons. Free tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis 30 minutes before the program. Free All Ages Plano, Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000.

wed 19 Open House at St. Philip’s School & Community Center 8am. Come find out about our rigorous academic program for Pre-K2 through 6th grade, with emphasis on building a positive self-image and faith-based focus for life. St. Philip’s School, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., Dallas, 214-421-5221 ext. 150, www.stphilips1600.org/admissions. See ad in this issue.

Fun Fall Crafts at the Parr Library 11am-12pm. Join us as we make fun fall crafts. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy., Plano, 972-769-4300.

thu 20 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;

the featured book A Moveable Feast

by Ernest Hemingway. FREE, Adults.

Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Pkwy., Plano.

Friends of the Library Meeting at the Smith Public Library 6-7pm.

The Friends of the Smith Public Library hold their monthly meetings on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 6pm in the Conference Room. Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Wylie, 972-5166250, www.wylietexas.gov.

BeTween Book & Movie Club at the Smith Public Library 6-7pm.

Never judge a book by its movie. 4th and 5th graders are invited to discuss different books that have movie adaptations. Sign up at the Children’s desk. Participation is limited, but all participants get a free copy of the book. November 20: Bluebonnet Book The Neptune Project with author Polly Holyoke. Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., Wylie, 972-516-6250, www.wylietexas.gov.

Podcasting 7-8:30pm. Aspiring to be the next Ira Glass? Learn about the basics of podcasting. Registration required. Registration opens two weeks prior to each session. Free, Grades 6-12.

Plano, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250.

fri 21 Home School Open Skate 12:452:45pm. Come out for Home School Open Skate, exclusively for children who are home schooled. Have fun and experience a new life-ling interest.

Open to home school students every first and third Friday. Allen Community Ice Rink, 200 E. Stacy Road, Allen, 972-912-1097.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Lakers 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave, Dallas, 214-222-3687, www. mavs.com.

sat 22 Make Friendship Braclets at the Library 2-3:30pm. Come and make bracelets for your friends! We will supply the materials and show you how to make them! Free. Ages K & u Harrington Library, 1501 18th Street, Plano, 972-941-7175.

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the know it all Computer Programming: Fancy Drawings Using Logo 3-4pm. Learn

Your Community

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.

Plano - Harrington Branch........................................................ 1501 18th St., 972-941-7175 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.

Plano - Parr Branch................................................6200 Windhaven Pkwy., 972-769-4300 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 18-36 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 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 12-23 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 McKinney - Roy and Hellen Hall Branch.................. 101 E. Hunt St., 972-547-7323 Mon - Fun with Baby 10:15am, ages 6-17mo & caregiver; Hold My Hand 10:15am, ages 18mo-3yrs & caregiver; On My Own 11am, ages 3-5, Wed - Family Story Time 6:30pm, all ages & caregivers *Tickets will be handed out for all preschool programs beginning at 10am McKinney - John and Judy Gay Branch......................6861 W. Eldorado Pkwy, 972-547-7323 Wed - Fun with Baby 10:15am, ages 6-17mo & caregiver; Hold My Hand 10:15am, ages 18mo-3yrs & caregiver; On My Own 11am, ages 3-5

how Logo is all about programming to generate drawings and what a wonderful tool it is to bring math concepts to life!

Instructions on connecting to Logo will be given during the program. Free, 3rd grade & up. Plano, Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000.

Super Science: Blood Splatter 3-4:30pm. How did they know? Learn about the science behind CSI and how splatter tells the tale. Registration required. Registration opens two weeks prior to session. Free Grades 6-12 Haggard Library-Plano, 2501 Coit Rd., Plano, 972-769-4250.

Saturday Night THRIVE 6-8pm.

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

Bangla Blast 2014 7pm. The Bangladeshi Expatriate Society of Texas (BEST) presents a show that strives to connect the different generations of the Bangla community through dialogue and to get young people excited about their common heritage. 7 p.m. Carpenter Hall. Tickets $15 in advance; $20 at the door Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving, 972-252-2787, www.irvingartscenter.com.

mon 24 Puppet Show: Gingerbread Boy 10:30am. Come and watch a puppet show and listen to some stories. Harrington Library, 1501 18th Street, Plano, 972-941-7175.

Art Tessellations 3-4pm. Use art and math to create repeating patterns that fit together without any gaps or overlaps. Pick out a shape, cut it out and create your own masterpiece! Free Grades 4-8 Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000.

Private Sensory Jump Night!

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.

6:30-8pm. This 1 1/2 jump session is a private event offered only for children with special needs who benefit from a smaller, more controlled jumping environment.

There is limited attendance, so advance registration is recommended. $8 per child. Pump it Up Frisco, 7164 Technology Dr., Ste 200, Frisco, 214-387-9663.

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Dallas Mavericks vs. Pacers 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave, Dallas, 214-222-3687, www.mavs.com.

tue 25 Puppet Show: Sitting Down to Eat 11am. Listen to some stories and watch a puppet show. FREE All Ages Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000.

Genealogy: Legacy Research 1:30-5pm. Join the Legacy Users Group for information sharing, research tips, webinars, and one-on-one help. Come & go. Free, Adults. Plano, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, 972-769-4250.

wed 26 Disney on Ice: Princesses & Heroes Nov. 26-30. Enter a world of wonder where heroes and hearts prevail.

Join Ariel as she yearns to explore the world above the waves and Prince Eric as he breaks Ursula’s slithering spell to reclaim his one true love. See Price Phillip, in a race against time to rescue Sleeping Beauty’s Aurora, defeat the evil Maleficent as she transforms herself into a fire-breathing dragon! Be there to discover a whole new world with Jasmine and Aladdin. And, watch in awe as the dreams of Cinderella, Belle, Snow White, Rapunzel and Tiana all come true. High-flying jumps, daring acrobatics, breathtaking skating and lovable Disney friends are just a wish away! See Disney On Ice presents Princesses & Heroes Presented by Stonyfield YoKids Organic Yogurt where believing is just the beginning! November 26-7:30 p.m. November 28-11:30am | 3:30 p.m. | 7:30 p.m. November 29-1 p.m. | 5 p.m. November 30-Noon | 4 p.m. Allen Event Center, 200 E. Stacy Rd., Allen, 972678-4646 alleneventcenter.com/Calendar. aspx?EID=339&month=11&year=2014&day=26&calType=0.

Puppet Show: Sitting Down to Eat 10am. Listen to some stories and watch a puppet show. FREE All Ages Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, 972-208-8000.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Knicks 6:30pm.

American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave, Dallas, 214-222-3687, www.mavs.com.

thu 27 Capital One Bank Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot 9am. The 2014 Capital One Bank Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot is expected to attract more than 40,000 participants and spectators to join in celebrating Dallas’ Thanksgiving Tradition. This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce your product or service to

Like our page for a chance to WIN COOL STUFF!!

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downtown Dallas’ largest gathering of families and friends and show your support in strengthening our community.

Visit www.thetrot.org for more information, to register, and where/when to pick up race packets.

Fort Worth YMCA Turkey Trot Proceeds from the Fort Worth YMCA Turkey Trot benefit the scholarship/ youth program of the Westside YMCA. Persons who wish to utilize the services of the Y, but cannot afford them, are given assistance based on their needs.

This allows the YMCA to say “Yes!” to those who otherwise would not be able to participate. The YMCA offers a complete continuum of services for all ages. 1K Gobbler Trot: 8am, 10K: 8:15am, 5K: 8:30am. All 3 courses will begin on Camp Bowie at the Westridge intersection. See course maps on website. The 5K will end on Sunset and Westridge and 10K finish line will be on Camp Bowie and Westridge. www.fwtrot.org

Dallas Cowboys vs. Philadelphia Eagles 3:30pm. AT&T Stadium, 925 N. Collins St., Arlington, 817-892-5000, www.dallascowboys.com

sat 29 Eric Herman and the Invisible Band 3-4pm. Bursting with comedy, creativity, outrageously fun songs, and non-stop audience participation, this concert will have you singing, dancing, laughing and playing with one of the coolest entertainers around! Free All Ages Haggard Library-Plano, 2501 Coit Rd., Plano, 972-769-4250.

Upcoming Events...

Dec 2, 3 & 4

Sing-a-long with Santa

Activities include face painting, holiday craft, sing-a-long, and refreshments. Bring your camera for photo ops

with Santa. 9:30-11:30am, $7 per child.

315 Chestnut St, McKinney. Reservations required, email: jamie@chestnutsquare. org. See ad in this issue.

Dec 6

28th Annual Lantern Light – A Holiday Party on the Prairie A one of a kind family event

and magical way to begin your Holiday festivities with Farrell Wilson House Tours, Wagon Rides, Blacksmith Demonstrations, Candle Dipping, Crafts, Games, Photos with Father Christmas plus much more. 3-8pm.

Heritage Farmstead Museum 1900 W. 15th Street, Plano. Admission $10 adults, $5 children. Pre-register online for discount at www.heritagefarmstead. org. See ad in this issue.

Dec 9-14

The Gift of Christmas featuring The Living Nativity Presented by Prestonwood

Baptist Church, A fantastical Christmas celebration, followed by a beautiful presentation of the true meaning of the season, featuring live animals, flying angels and much more.

Purchase tickets at prestonwoodgoc. org. Worship with us this weekend at 6801 W. Park Blvd, Plano; 1001 W. Prosper Trail, Prosper; and 12123 Hillcrest Rd, Dallas 972-820-5000 prestonwood.org. See ad in this issue.

Dec 16-2

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer The Musical The

original television classic comes to life!

AT&T Performing Arts Center Presents at the Majestic Theatre. Tickets available at ticketdfw.com or 214-871-5000. 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. SP

To Advertise in Suburban Parent, Call 972.887.7779 | Suburban Parent | 27

the F

Shared from: http://www.auntpeaches.com/2013/11/kid-art-luminaria.html

U pagN e Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.

kid-art

luminaire!

— William Arthur Ward

Have some drawings or art lying around? No more room on the fridge?

Awesome! Cut them to the same height as those empty jars you have in your cupboard (don’t act like you don’t have empty jars). Then wrap with twine and drop in a candle.

Boom! A beautiful table display or place several around your dining table for all your guests to enjoy. Your kids will be happy too!

LOL with James Estes!

GOTTA LOVE ‘EM WHY DID THE TURKEY CROSS THE ROAD? It was Thanksgiving, and he wanted people to think he was a chicken!

Source: BoysLife.org

WHY DID THE CRANBERRIES TURN RED? Because they saw the turkey dressing!

WHY DO PILGRIMS’ PANTS ALWAYS FALL DOWN? Because they wear their belt buckles on their hats!

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Our daughter is on her school track team. My husband and I are amazed at her speed and grace when we watch her compete. I told her she ran like a filly. And her response was “Hey, I’m not a steak sandwich!”

FROM MARY ELLEN, IRVING

Do you have a funny story about your child?

We’d love to hear it. Send them to editor@suburbanparent.com.

10

Perfect Daddy-Daughter Date Ideas

Your daughter is excited. She ha

s a date with her first love.

Mom helps her get ready and she looks beautiful. There’s no insecurity because she knows her date loves her unconditio known him her whole life. He is faithf nally. She has ul, trustworthy, and fun. There’s a knoc k on the door and she takes one last fore answering. She opens the door, look in the mirror besees her date and smiles, “Hi Daddy.”

It may dawn on you, “The only guy I with this jewel is me.” Hopefully there know that I can trust will be a guy you feel just as confident about at some point. But you can worr because tonight it’s all about the two y about that later of you. Taking your daughter on a date is one of the most important things you We want to help you plan a great time can do for her. together. Here are 10 perfect daddy-da ughter date ideas that will take her breat h away.

1. Do Her Favorite Thing

Figure out her favorite activity, game , or sport. A date can be as simple as playing “horse” if she loves basketball or sitting at a park table making crafts.

2. Go on a Picnic

Pack her favorite foods, particularly dessert. Make a playlist of her favorite songs. Find a great field and put down a comfortable blanket. After eating, read to her or lay down and play cloud shapes.

3. Paint Pottery

This gives you the opportunity to be creative and come away with something tangible to remember your time together.

4. Go to a Carnival/Festival

A corn-dog, funnel cake, cotton cand y, and your daughter by your side. Sounds like heaven. Enjoy the sights and sounds, perhaps win her a stuffed animal.

5. See a Show

It can be as simple as local theater or as elaborate as a Broadway show. My sister still talks about my dad taking her to see Annie in New York well over 30 years ago.

6. Take Her Shopping

Set the budget before you go. Perhaps it is even a no purchase shopping day or something small. Whe n it comes to shopping, girls enjoy the journey as much as the item. The size of your

credit card is not what communicates love, but your willingness to be in her world.

7. Try Geo-caching

Get out into nature in a fun way by looki ng for hidden treasure.

Most of the time you will find an old nasty toy. The actual treasure will be your time together.

8. Have a Dinner Date

Simple, classic, and plenty of opportuni ty to talk. Take her to her favorite place or find a new one where neither one of you have been.

9. Host a Ball at Home or Go to a Formal Dance Class

Girls love to dance. The first person they should learn with or teach them ought to be their dad. If they are still in the era of princesses, set up a ball at home. Play the prince. Give her the Cinderella experience. If she is older, take her to a formal dance class or perhaps even swing dancing if you are really brave.

10. Have a Photo Scavenger Hunt

Come up with a list of things to captu re. You can choose to make the list and surprise her with the idea or have her help you. The two of you can choose to be in the pictures or not.

Huddle up with your daughter tonight and ask, “Will you go on a date with me?” SP

This is where dads in any stage of fathe rhood can find helpful resources to aid in their parenting.

Fathers can also sign up to start or atten d one of our All Pro Dads chapters.

Reprinted with permission

www.allprodad.com

To Advertise in Suburban Parent, Call 972.887.7779 | Suburban Parent | 29

The Other Family

E

veryone knows one. The perfect family…the flawless mom, dad, kids and pets who seemingly exist solely to remind you and the world that your family isn’t nearly as accomplished.

They belong to your church. They attend your school. They stand on the sidelines of the same soccer game. They are like stalkers and no restraining order in the world can protect your ego.

They are also the nicest people in the world (of course), and therefore, who could wish anything bad to happen to them….out-loud. We all know a family like this and yet we rarely understand how they do it. How come they have the perfect kids? How come they drive the perfect cars and live in the perfect homes? How come it’s them and not us?

For my mother-in-law, it’s the Dobias family that defies the laws of run-of-the mill. The Dobias’s are retired. They have five children. The oldest son retired at 38 from Microsoft a multi-millionaire. Another child traded in a lucrative job as

both a CPA and attorney to own and operate a successful winery in Sonoma.

Other Dobias children and grandchildren have served as missionaries, adopted disadvantaged children from India, taught in inner city schools and they always call their mom on Mother’s Day. No one in the Dobias clan has gone to jail, been divorced, or had to cry in front of the school counselor professing, “I don’t know what to do with this child!”

My mother-in-law’s family has not been as lucky.

Three fairly immediate family members have spent time in jail. A grandchild has health issues, nothing too serious. Another is passing school by the seat of his pants. There’s an on-going divorce surely to be nothing less than ugly. And to top it off, I tell the whole world about these things when I write.

When something bad happens to my wife’s family, my mother-in-law always laments: “How come this never happens to Lori Dobias?” It’s as if my mother-in-law believes the Dobias’s do this to her on purpose. Inevitably, someone in the

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family will respond by saying something like, “I bet the Dobias’s have skeletons in their closet,” or, “I’m sure something is wrong with them,” or “let’s T-P their house.”

But what if the Dobias clan is in fact… perfect?

What if my mother-in-law has a family of flawed individuals and they don’t? What if there is nothing in the Dobias’s family to make her feel better about her own “colorful” family? I have struggled with these issues over the years as well. I look at my own family…my wife and kids…our crazy cat… and it’s obvious we are far from perfect. Believe me, no one who knows us is sitting home right now bent out of shape because the Swarners share the same neighborhood.

I’ve recently come to the conclusion that if we were perfect, then we wouldn’t be us. I like who I am therefore, I should accept where I’ve been. I suspect that’s true for the Dobias’s as well.

It’s not that perfect families give the rest of us hope. They are just simply our neighbors. SP