Idaho Family 2 2019

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February 2019

BIG BROTHER HANNAH CHULACK Positive teen musician

See inside for our...

Early Learning 2019 Preschool and Child Care Guide

A dream come true

MOTHER OF SEVEN Lessons from a sickbed Eagle pediatric dentist Dan Streeby celebrates February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month with his staff

Contents Features

Volume 7, Number 2 Publisher J.J. Plew Associate Publisher Adrianne Goff Cover Photo www.PhotographyByKam.com Editor Gaye Bunderson editorgaye@gmail.com Sales & Marketing J.J. Plew jjplew82@gmail.com 208-697-2043 Contributors Daniel Bobinski, Macaile Hutt, Beth Markley, Sandy McDaniel, Mindy Scott, Irene Archuleta Woodworth Graphic Design Carol Smiley csmileydesign@gmail.com

February 2019

Kids and structure

Columns

5 14 Irene’s

Insights

They need it

Master bedroom remodel

Big brother

6

A sibling to lean on

8 22 Manic

Hannah Chulack

Mothering

Positive, musical teen

A perfect thank-you

Distribution Shauna Howard, Doris Evans

Idaho Family Magazine, published monthly

by Gem Production Co., LLC, is committed to providing readers with informative and entertaining information to help them in maintaining healthy families and positive lifestyles. It is distributed throughout the valley as a free publication. Idaho Family Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements or opinions expressed by editorial contributors or advertisers. The acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. Idaho Family Magazine does not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without express written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. Idaho Family Magazine reserves the right to edit or reject all materials submitted.

All rights reserved. Copyright 2019 by Gem Production Co., LLC.

Early Learning

16

Preschool & Child Care Guide 2019

In Each Edition Sickbed lessons 20 When boredom is good

Social Media

4 Editor’s Intro A giving store

21 10 Family Events

Push away, draw closer

Calendar

Follow us on Facebook www.idahofamilymagazine.com

Idaho Family Magazine | FEBRUARY 2019 3

EDITOR’S Intro

A small store that thrives on giving

T

his month, we’ll mark Valentine’s Day on February 14 and Presidents’ Day on February 18.

Abraham Lincoln was born February 12 and George Washington was born on February 22, and that is why we mark Presidents’ Day in February each year.

My family takes special note of another February birthday — my mother turns 85 this month.

I want to talk about something that my mother does that I feel benefits her, as well as the community where she lives.

My mother is the head volunteer at the Glenns Ferry Thrift Store. While some of the time it’s pretty easy work, at other times it’s quite challenging. And yet my 85-year-old mother doesn’t shy away from any of the hard work required of her.

The little thrift store thrives on donations of items from people in the town. All funds raised benefit the Glenns Ferry Disaster Fund. So my mother and her volunteer staff of 3-4 women 70 and over give their time to keep the store open most days of the week.

Even though it is an unpaid position, Mom takes her thrift store responsibilities seriously and works like a much younger woman to keep the shop going. She combs through boxes of donated goods, washes the things that need washing, and puts the items out in attractive displays so patrons can come into a clean and welcoming space to shop for inexpensive items.

The store has sold everything from buttons to couches, sheets to coffee pots, and toys to furniture.

My sister is frequently recruited to do some heavy lifting at the store. Mom decorates for every holiday — including Valentine’s Day — and my sister once went up and down the stairs at the store about 50 times to bring up boxes filled with Christmas decorations so Mom and her helpers could fill the thrift shop with holiday cheer.

Like all jobs, volunteer or paid, there are good and bad things about working at the thrift store. But I really enjoy when Mom tells me stories of some of the good things that happen there. For example: • Last year, a small boy came in with his mother to look around the shop. His eyes lit upon a large toy truck. Of course he wanted it, so his mother asked “the redhead in

charge” (my mother) how much it cost. Mom thought the truck should go for about $4, but she asked the boy what he thought he could pay. He told her that in his piggy bank at home he had $2, and he asked if he could buy it for that amount. Mom said yes. So the boy and his mom went home to get the money. Mom said the little boy was pretty proud when he handed her the money he had saved himself — $2 indeed, all in nickels, dimes and pennies.

• This past Christmas, a woman came into the store and wanted to purchase a Christmas sleigh decoration. The asking price was $2. “I figure everybody should have $2 with them,” Mom explained. Well, this woman did not even have $2. That turned out to be no problem when another woman in the store, overhearing the conversation, took $2 out of her own purse and gave it to the woman, who was able to walk out of the store with her Christmas sleigh decoration. Sometimes, even a small act of charity is a valuable kindness.

You always think of parents being proud of their kids, but kids can be proud of their parents, too. And by “kids” I don’t mean little ones because, to be honest, the work my mother does at the thrift store makes me proud and I’m no kid. No matter her age, she’s still out doing good for others, contributing to her community, and by golly, working pretty darn hard at that. Happy birthday to the redhead in charge.

—Gaye Bunderson FREE

January 2019

Children’s Photos Wanted

Idaho Family Magazine would love to put your child or children on our cover. All photos should be high quality, sharp and clear, and high resolution of around 300 ppi. Color photos are preferred, and all photos need to be vertical not horizontal. Please identify the children in the photos, the children’s ages, and what Treasure Valley community they reside in. (If chosen for the cover, their last names will not be used without permission.) Send the photos to editorgaye@gmail.com.

4 FEBRUARY 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

HANNAH CHULAC K

Positive

teen musi cian

See inside for

Early Lea our... rning 20 Preschool and 19 Child Care Guid e

BIG BROTHE R A drea m come true

MOTHER

OF SEVEN

Lessons from a sickbed Eagle pediatr ic dentist Dan celebrates Streeby February’s National Childre Dental Health n’s Month with his staff

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

KIDS AND STRUCTURE

They may hate it, but they need it

By Sandy Spurgeon McDaniel

W

e are at that time of year Children under 2 should not be exposed to when everyone is still clinging TV, cell phones, computers, etc. It has to do to their resolutions. Energy with eyesight, brain development and social is put into diets, promises are development. Just don’t fall into the trap of made to self and there are a whole bunch shutting your little dear up at the cost of the of items added to the “Going To Do Better” quality of his or her life. list. Children are still coming off the lack of On the weekend, there should be chores (for structure around the holiday recess, and even the right to live in your home and to teach though children fight structure, they need it them how to care for themselves), and those and feel safer when they have it. chores are separate from ones that may occur The more you create a routine for your during the week. Children need to know how child’s day, the less turmoil you will likely have to vacuum, clean the bathroom, separate — at least it will diminish the power struggle Sandy Spurgeon McDaniel clean clothes, hang up clean clothes, put dirty between parent and child. Have your child clothes in the hamper, and, from age 9 on, do get up at the same time on school days. Don’t over-mother their own wash. They can take the trash out, empty the a child by going in and telling him or her 10 times that it is dishwasher, care for animals and help you wash the car. We time to get up. It is time the first time the alarm clock rings or are raising a whole generation of entitled kids who have no you say it is time. clue about taking care of themselves; please don’t let your Use my discipline system. Say a simple, “Time to get up” child be one of them. to your child. Give them a minute or two to awaken, then Doing chores becomes one more thing for a parent to say, “Minute Drill.” This will get a child to pop out of bed remember. A chart that is checked off helps, and the “No immediately. The consequence of not getting up in a minute media until your chore is done” rule will help. If a child does is a penny in the jar for each minute the child doesn’t get a terrible job at a chore, give that child a lesson on how to out of bed. Each penny means 15 minutes off something do the chore and another chore to do as well. I remember fun. Children hate getting pennies that cost them time with when my son Scott made a mess of loading the dishwasher. something they enjoy, so they won’t push the boundary set by After dinner I invited him to a really drawn-out, super a parent. wordy lesson about how a dishwasher is The Minute Drill (see “Don’t Feed the Dragon” on designed and how to load it. At the end, parentingsos.com) uses life interrupted as the consequence, I unloaded all the dishes, inviting and children do not want to get a penny in that situation. him to re-do it, reminding him that Each day, have a specific time for the child to get up, and another boring lesson was available then maintain the same schedule every day (your choice): get should he need it. It’s amazing how dressed, eat breakfast, brush teeth, go to school. After school, well he did the job after that! the routine might look like this: home from school, eat snack, One job of a parent is to teach play for a half hour, media time for a half hour, homework, a child to manage the chaotic lives dinner, and bedtime. With so many children involved in everyone seems to be living these sports, this schedule is easily disrupted, but completing days. Children feel safe and learn to homework is not optional, it’s a must-do. If a child can’t keep manage their lives with routine and up with homework and sports, sports needs to go. Getting a structure. good education is your child’s ticket to a better life.

For more than 55 years, Sandy has been an Maintain a routine even on chaotic days. Bedtime needs international speaker and recognized authority on families and children. to be the same time on school days. There are mountains Author of five books, columnist, founder of parentingsos.com, she is of research proving that lack of sleep is damaging our a resident of Meridian and loves spending time with her three Idaho children’s health and brain development. It is best not to grandchicks. Semi-retired, she speaks to schools, churches, and MOPS have a workable computer or TV in a child’s room, and they groups and provides parent coaching sessions in person and on the phone.

She is available for parenting talks/trainings in the Treasure Valley and should not use any media after 7 or 8 p.m., depending on may be reached at sandy@parentingsos.com. Also, go to YouTube: Sandy the child’s age. Cell phones go in a basket to be picked up in Spurgeon McDaniel to see videos on specific parenting issues. the morning. (It is a good idea to take that basket into your bedroom, parent.) www.idahofamilymagazine.com

Idaho Family Magazine | FEBRUARY 2019 5

A BIG BROTHER

Longtime dream comes true unexpectedly

By Macaile Hutt

S

ince before I can remember, I asked for a big brother for Christmas. Every single year. One year, I even made a PowerPoint presentation about why we should get an exchange student, along with all of the necessary forms already filled out, forged signatures and all. I wasn’t messing around. A few years ago, I learned something that changed my life forever. When my mom was 19, she had a baby that she gave up for adoption. I’ve had a big brother all along.

It took me a little while to process everything, but eventually we started the search to find my Macaile Hutt big brother. My mom was diligent in calling multiple agencies and eventually got in touch with the agency she used for my brother when he was born. Since it was a closed adoption, the only thing they could do was put a letter in his file to give him in case he ever called the agency looking for more information about my mom. We both felt pretty helpless and discouraged, but she didn’t give up. One January, she took the ancestry.com test and didn’t have any matches. In February, my brother took the test for his birthday, and received a 100 percent match for a biological parent, my mom.

I’ll never forget driving to work on Friday, April 6, when my mom called me. “Are you sitting down?” she asked. “Well… yeah.” (I just left out the fact that I was driving on the freeway.)

There was a long pause. “We found your brother.”

Those four words completely changed my life.

I have to be honest. When we found my brother I wasn’t in a good place in my life. My heart was broken, the path I was traveling was bumpy, and I couldn’t really see a whole lot up around the corner. These are things I don’t talk about very often. None of us do. My social media looked happy, my smile was filtered, and nobody would think twice if they ran into me at the grocery store. But if you saw me with all of that stripped away, you would see a broken, scared, lost and hopeless person.

I felt frustrated when I thought about how much I had to live for and, yet, so many days living felt...So. Incredibly. Hard.

But when we found my brother, I swear to you that I actually felt the walls of my heart stretching and growing and reaching forward to try to touch the day I’d get to meet him. It’s like the universe could feel me shrinking and slipping and found a way to give me a reason to keep moving and crawling forward.

When I learned his name, it sounded so familiar, like I’d known it all along. Bryan.

Sometimes life feels so heavy, so scary. And it’s not as though I don’t want to experience it and feel it, but I’ve always envied my best friends when I watch them lean on their brothers and sisters when the wind gets too strong to 6 FEBRUARY 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

bear alone. I wanted that, and right when my legs were about to give out, my mom called to tell me that we found someone out there in this mixed-up world with a smile who matched mine, a shoulder I could lean against when the going gets tough.

“Pick me,” I whispered. “Please pick me.”

The day we got to meet my brother, I was so scared but so excited. I ended up worrying about so many silly things that never came true. That’s life though, right?

My mom and I sat huddled in chairs around the corner of the hotel, and we heard tiny voices coming from a distance. I saw my brother and his beautiful family and it took everything in me to hold it all together. For a second, I couldn’t breathe; but after that, it felt like the deepest exhale my lungs have ever known. “They’re here. They’re mine,” I thought of my brother and his family.

I bent down and hugged my niece and nephew and then I got to hug my brother for the very first time. I can’t put it into words, so I’m not even going to try.

We got to spend three days getting to know each other.

My heart became so full that it feels like it could honestly burst. I have new branches of love growing from the roots of my heart that I didn’t even know existed. I cry just thinking about how thankful I am.

My memories feel so sacred that I don’t think I could even try to put them into words, but I felt compelled to at least try to relay a small part of my experience here to anyone who might need the reminder.

Life is hard. It is so hard, you guys. And even though there are times I look like I have it all together, I don’t. Not even a little bit. When I look at my life, it doesn’t look anything like I thought it would. And I have spent so much time beating myself up for that. I have questioned myself and my decisions, I’ve wondered what’s wrong with me and what I could possibly change. I have all but given up. And I am not proud to admit that, but I think it’s important. Because not enough people do admit it: I almost gave up. But then the universe gave me a gift that filled all of the cracks in my heart that have been aching for so long. The universe reminded me that she doesn’t always give us what we want, but she always gives us what we need. And it looked NOTHING like I thought it would.

It looked like hugging my big brother for the first time. It looked like face masks and sleepovers and dance competitions with my niece. It looked like chasing my nephew through the mall while he was riding an electric moose. It looked like heart-to-hearts with my sister-in-law, stuck in traffic on Eagle www.idahofamilymagazine.com

Macaile Hutt is shown with her older brother, Bryan. The siblings were united through two ancestry.com tests — one from their mother and another from Bryan.

(Courtesy photo)

Idaho Miss Amazing Road while she fed me carrots because I was ravenous. It sounded like hearing a tiny voice call my mom “Grandma” for the very first time. It felt like meeting someone and instantly knowing I could lean on him, no matter how strong the storms in our future might get.

I can’t describe that feeling. I wished for it for so many years, and it was hand-delivered to me in a package that looked so incredibly different than I could have ever imagined. It was even better, somehow. It looked like seeing all of my hurt and fears and happiness and hope reflected in my brother’s eyes. It looked like learning we both like spicy food and strong coffee. In holding each other extra tight when we had to say goodbye.

I had all but given up. My life is so wonderful, but it’s far from perfect. I have so much to be thankful for, but I am not even close to having it all together. And I try my best to talk about that sometimes, but I write it in a way that sounds pretty and poetic and eloquent and purposeful. But, sometimes, life feels far from purposeful. Sometimes, it feels frustrating and unfair and confusing and excruciating.

And that’s why I wanted to write this today. Because no matter where you are or what you’re doing or how full or empty your heart may be, there’s more. There’s so much more out there. Even on the days when it feels like you’ve hit 100 dead ends, I promise there’s a road waiting for you in the future that looks even more beautiful than you could have ever imagined it to be. I can almost guarantee you that it won’t look anything like you expected it to. But it will feel better than anything you could have ever imagined.

NOTE: My mom and I found out about Bryan in December of 2015. We found him in April of 2018 and just met him on December 26, 2018, the day after Christmas.

Macaile Hutt is an occupational therapist in Boise, as well as a writer and contributor for The Sensory Project. Her therapy style takes a holistic and child-directed approach, with the goal of children succeeding across multiple environments. She holds a master’s degree in occupational therapy from A.T. Still University and has received continuing education in Handwriting Without Tears, pediatric kinesiotaping, Interactive Metronome, and Beckman Oral Motor. She is co-owner of the company Human Code, a candle and retail company with a larger purpose of promoting kindness and generosity. In her free time, she enjoys creative writing, backpacking, and traveling. www.idahofamilymagazine.com

College of Idaho Jewett Auditorium | March 15-16, 2019 Miss Amazing is a nationwide program that provides opportunities for girls and women with disabilities to build self-confidence.

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BUILD LIFE SKILLS

INCREASE VISIBILITY Because girls with disabilities can and do accomplish amazing things!

Get involved today at

id.missamazing.org (208) 250-8821 Idaho Family Magazine | FEBRUARY 2019 7

HANNAH CHULACK

Despite illness, she’s rocking Instagram

By Gaye Bunderson

I

f she were the bragging sort, Hannah Nicole Chulack of Eagle could boast about her 100,000 followers on Instagram. But the 16-year-old remains lowkey about the success she’s found, success that came through music with a constructive message.

“I share my songs, my dreams, and say, ‘Don’t let people bring you down,’” the teen said.

Hannah was born with a genetic condition known as mitochondrial disorder. The precise medical definition of the disease (from https://my.clevelandclinic.org) is a “chronic, genetic, often inherited disorder that occurs when mitochondria fail to produce enough energy for the body to function properly.”

Mitochondria serve as the “energy factory” in the human body.

Information from the Mayo Clinic further explains: “A common factor among mitochondrial diseases is that the mitochondria are unable to completely burn food and oxygen to generate energy, which is essential for normal cell function. Symptoms might include, among other things, muscle weakness.”

For all appearances, Hannah is a typical 16-year-old; however, her mother, Nanci Chulack, said, “Hannah lives a lot in pain, but she rarely seems to show it or let it get her down.”

The Chulack family, which includes husband Kelly and son Luke (who also has mitochondrial disorder), came to the Treasure Valley from Burbank, Calif. early in 2018. Burbank, said Nanci, had lost its hometown flavor.

“It felt fast-paced; it didn’t feel like home,” Hannah confirmed.

Eagle captured the family’s heart immediately.

“Here, it’s better; we do more things here than we did in California — and it was my first time seeing snow. I looked for it all the time, even at 4 in the morning,” Hannah said.

Nanci praised the people in the small Ada County community. “They are people with a family mindset,” she said, also commending many of them for being people who live by faith.

The Chulack family members made friends easily and quickly in the town. “Our neighbors have the same outlook as we do,” Nanci said, explaining that faith and family are important to their neighbors just as they are to the Chulacks.

“All the neighbors are from Los Angeles, and they came here for the same reasons we did. We didn’t come here to change the area, or to make it like the places we left. We like it as it 8 FEBRUARY 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

Despite struggling with chronic illness, Eagle resident Hannah Nicole Chulack makes music videos in her closet and has racked up a large Instagram following. (Courtesy photo) is here.”

Hannah made friends through school. “I have nice friends I met through Connections Academy,” she said. Though all the kids study at home online, they go on field trips together and get to know each other that way.

At age 6, Hannah started writing songs.

“She has a passion for songwriting and had it early. It was something that was not the norm for kids her age,” Nanci said.

Songwriting was frequenly an outlet to help Hannah cope with her illness and other trials. Nanci explained that because of her medical condition, Hannah was out of school a lot, so when she returned, other kids didn’t talk to her. She was often left to play by herself. Music was her way of turning loneliness into a positive statement.

Hannah admits she felt left out many times but vowed to herself she wouldn’t give in to pity.

“I know where I stand,” she said, meaning her selfconfidence has always been strong.

Asked whether her parents were pivotal in giving her that sense of empowerment and self-worth, she said they did.

“You raised me good,” she told her mother. “Dad is a good dad, too.”

Those same affirmative attributes were bestowed on Luke as well, and Nanci said of both her children, “They had to pull from within, and truly their faith was most important.”

Luke is 18 and loves computers and talking. www.idahofamilymagazine.com

“He’s a communicator,” said his mom.

“He’s great to talk to. If he were here, he’d be talking a lot,” said his sister. “I talk to him and we can always relate.

He’s a great brother.”

Hannah plays the ukelele, guitar and piano; she is selftaught on the ukelele but took some lessons on the other instruments. Melodies and lyrics just come to her; sometimes the melodies are first, sometimes the lyrics, and sometimes both pop into her mind at once.

“God has given me this talent,” she said.

“It started from something not good,” said Nanci.

Hannah turned her bedroom closet into a recording studio and fixed up the space for the purposes of shooting videos as well. She puts the videos on YouTube. (For an example, go to https://www.youtube.com/watchv=7x0A_Ehp7Kw.) She has help shooting the videos, hires backup musicians when needed, and gets her videos professionally mastered.

Her fan following continues to grow online, but like so many online platforms, the Internet trolls pop up too. Hannah is unfazed. If she gets trolled on Instagram, for instance, with someone making a dark statement about her and her music, she just responds, “What’s bothering you?” She may also tell a troll, “I’ll pray for you.” She has gotten people to respond to her, open up to her, and then become friendly instead of

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

abusive.

She uses her Instagram account to spread her faith also, posting Psalms or something about the value of patience or doing good to others.

Another thing Hannah likes about her adopted state of Idaho is, “I can make more country music here, and Christian music too.”

With mitochondrial disease being genetic and incurable, Nanci admits it was difficult to watch her children struggle with the illness. “It’s hard to see them suffer,” she said. Part of what prepared her for parenting children with chronic illness was a type 1 diabetes diagnosis she got as a young girl. “It helped me be able to help them,” she said.

She also struggled with anxiety and panic attacks as a kid and feels that also gave her a greater understanding of her children’s challenges.

Hannah said of her mom, “I don’t feel alone at all.”

Hannah is uncertain if she’ll pursue music as a career when she’s older. “For now, I’m doing it because I like to do it. I will always be doing it. If I feel sad, writing a song helps me.”

She’s uncertain about music as a profession when she gets ready to pursue an adult career. But she still has plans for her post-high school years, and it involves an enthusiasm for the Broncos. “I want to go to Boise State,” she said.

Idaho Family Magazine | FEBRUARY 2019 9

CALENDAR Friday Teen Night

Upcycle Craft

Family Storytime

Friday Teen Night, open to youngsters in grades 7-12 with student ID, is held from 7 to 10:30 p.m. on the first and third Fridays of the month at the Fort Boise Community Center, 700 Robbins Rd. in Boise. The youth will be supervised by Boise Parks and Recreation staff. For more information, contact Barbara English at 208-854-6625 or benglish@cityofboise.org.

Join Goodwill at the Cherry Lane branch of the Meridian Library District to take part in familyfriendly upcycle projects that will turn Goodwill thrift store items into new and creative crafts.

Goodwill provides the materials; you just bring your creativity and your friends. All ages welcome. The program will take place in the Large Conference Room from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, February 6.

A storytime for the whole family is set for 10:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, February 9, in the Youth Services Storywell at Boise Public Library’s main branch.

Join staff member Anthony as he takes you on a literary adventure each week. Visit new places, meet new friends, and have lots of fun while doing it. For more information, contact Anthony at anguyen@ cityofboise.org or 208-972-8201.

Family Night Wednesday at IceWorld

Doggy Tales

Daddy Daughter Date Night

Wednesday night is Family Night at Idaho IceWorld, 7072 S. Eisenman Rd. in Boise. From 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., admission and skate rental is only $6 per person. Go to idahoiceworld.com for more information on family-friendly programs.

Practice your reading skills worry-free when you read to a trained therapy dog at the Library! at Cole & Ustick from 3 to 4 p.m. Thursday, February 7.

Bring your own book or borrow one of the library’s.

There’s a variety of dogs at each monthly program: Stiles, Winston, Lexie and Grace to name a few.

Nampa Rec Center’s annual Daddy Daughter Date Night is set for 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, February 9. The special night allows girls to dress up, go to a ball, and have a great time with their fathers. Tickets are $9 per person for members and $11 per person for non-members. Tickets may be purchased at the Nampa Rec Center, 131 Constitution Way, or online at nampareccenter.org.

Nature Explorers The Deer Flat Wildlife Refuge will hold a Nature Explorers program for preschoolers on the fourth Thursday of each month beginning at 10:30 a.m. in the Refuge Visitor Center, 13751 Upper Embankment Rd. in Nampa. Preschoolers ages 3-5 may use their natural curiosity to investigate the world around them on guided nature explorations.

There will be hands-on activities on a different theme each month. Preschoolers should come with an adult and be ready to be outside. For more information, visit www.fws.gov/deerflat, email deerflat@fws.gov, or call 208-467-9278.

CFA Children’s Theatre In conjunction with Caldwell Fine Arts, Drama Kids International conducted auditions of local children, who have been rehearsing and now will present a public performance of “Hot as Summer, Cold as Winter” at 7 p.m. February 1 and at 1 p.m.

February 5 in Jewett Auditorium on the College of Idaho campus in Caldwell. Also, for Valentine’s Day, Lizzy Hoyt: New Lady on the Prairie will perform on February 14. There will be a 6 p.m.

Valentine’s Day dinner at Langroise Hall on campus and a 7 p.m. concert in Jewett. For dinner menu, tickets, or other information, go to www. caldwellfinearts.org. For tickets, you may also call 208-459-5275.

SuperBOWLing Party and Bowling & Bubbly The Super Bowl will be shown on 10 big screens at Pinz in Meridian from 3 to 10 p.m. Sunday, February 3. Bowling and all kinds of other indoor games will be available, as well as a family pizza deal. Then, for Valentine’s Day, there will be a free glass of champagne or sparkling cider while you bowl with your sweetheart (one glass per person while supplies last) from 5 to 10 p.m. Thursday, February 14. A President’s Day Special on Monday, February 18, is also available. Check all these activities out at pinzbowlingidaho.com.

First Thursday Family Night at the Library February’s First Thursday Family Night will feature Corbin Maxey and his 10 reptiles. From 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on February 7, come to Hayes Auditorium at Boise Public Library’s main branch and meet a green iguana, an 85-pound tortoise, a monkey-tailed skink, a 13-foot albino python, and more.

21st anniversary of Boise Cotillion The Boise Cotillion is marking its 21st anniversary.

The next programs on its schedule of events include a Sweetheart Dance on February 7; an All American Western Dance on March 7; and a Spring Prom on April 4. For more information or to enroll, go to www.boisecotillion.com. Questions may be directed to Cotillion Director Denise Hodges at boisecotillion@aol.com or 208-371-7410.

Daddy Daughter Dance in Eagle A Daddy Daughter Dance is set for 6 to 8 p.m.

Friday, February 8, at Eagle City Hall, 660 E. Civic Ln. Enjoy music, photo booths, crafts, snacks, a dad joke competition, and — most importantly — dancing at this Valentine’s Day-themed event. Cost is $30 a couple, with $5 extra for each additional daughter. Tickets will not be available at the door.

Go to cityofeagle.org, call 208-489-8763 or 208489-8789 for more information. Also, call if you have a little girl who needs a “daddy” to accompany her. Young females, ages 4-13, and significant male figures in their lives (fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, or brothers) are all welcome.

Beatrix Potter’s Tales Capital City Youth Ballet, a pre-professional ballet troupe for children ages 12-18, will present its Winter Show, featuring “Beatrix Potter’s Tales” brought to life through dance, at 7:30 p.m. Friday, February 8, at the Nampa Civic Center. Purchase tickets at ictickets.com or by calling 208-442-3232; or, visit nampaciviccenter.com/events/events-tickets/.

10 FEBRUARY 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

Foothills Family Day – Idaho Explorer Day Develop your explorer skills by creating a naturalist journal, learning to identify plants, and completing an orienteering scavenger hunt during Idaho Explorer Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, February 9, at the Foothills Learning Center, 3188 Sunset Peak Rd. in Boise. Learn about Idaho’s explorer history and check out some tools used when the pioneers began moving west. The program is free, and no pre-registration is required. Go to bee.cityofboise.org for more information.

Story Story Night What makes a great story, and how do you tell one that makes people hang on to every word? Learn the basics of true, live storytelling with Story Story Night from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, February 9, at JUMP’s Inspire Studio. Guides will walk you through choosing a story, building a storyline, and creating compelling scenes paced for maximum impact. All ages are welcome with a parent. Go to http://jumpboise.org/ class-listings for more information. (JUMP is located in downtown Boise at 1000 W. Myrtle St.)

New Beginnings adoption information A New Beginnings Adoption Agency holds adoption information seminars and webinars, providing a no-pressure environment for families to learn about adopting infants and children in the U.S. foster care system. Anyone interested is welcome to come learn about the differences in programs, needs, requirements and processes. Upcoming seminars and webinars are as follows: • Adoption Information Seminar, 6:30-7:30 p.m. February 12 at 8660 W. Emerald, Ste. 142, in Boise. The program is free, but preregistration is required by emailing admin@ adoptanewbeginning.org or by calling 208-9393865.

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of Events • Adoption Information Webinar, 1-2 p.m.

February 14. Specialists will discuss infant adoption, foster-adoption and international adoptions. The webinar is free, but you must RSVP to admin@adoptanewbeginning.org in order to receive login information.

• Adoption Information Seminar, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

March 5. See seminar info above.

• Adoption Information Webinar, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

March 13. See webinar info above.

• Adoption Information Seminar, 1-2 p.m. March 14. See seminar info above.

Fostering Idaho foster/adoption meetings The first step in finding out more about being a foster or adoptive parent in the State of Idaho is by attending an information or orientation meeting.

A meeting is set for 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, February 13, in the Idaho Room of Caldwell Public Library, 1010 Dearborn St. For more information, or for other meeting times and places, contact Monique Layton, recruitment coordinator, at 208-249-0180 or mlayton4@ewu.edu, or visit www.fosteringidaho.org.

Nampa Public Library programs Nampa Public Library will offer a number of family- and kid-friendly programs throughout February as follows: • Art Endeavor (for the whole family), 4 to 6:30 p.m., first Tuesday of each month • Build with a Buddy, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., first Saturday of each month

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Months of February-March, 2019 Please send family-related calendar items to editorgaye@gmail.com

• Saturday Family Movie, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., first Saturday of each month • Baby/Toddler Storytime, 10:15 to 11 a.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays • Groovin’ & Movin’, 10:15 to 11 a.m., Mondays • • Humpback Whale, new storytime, 4 to 4:45 p.m., first Monday of each month • • Preschool Storytime, 10:15 to 11 a.m., Wednesdays and Fridays • Reading Tails, read to a service dog, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., second Tuesday of each month • You Pick Storytime, 4 to 4:45 p.m., second and fourth Mondays of the month • The Club, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., first and third Wednesdays of the month • The Lego Club, 4 to 5:30 p.m., fourth Wednesday of the month • Pre-Tween Program, 4 to 5 p.m., every Monday • Bots & Builders, 4 to 5:30 p.m., Wednesday (February 13) • Tween Activities, 4 to 5:30 p.m., Thursday (February 14) • Teen Gaming Night, 4:30 to 6 p.m., first Thursday of each month • Teen Program, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., third Thursday of each month Check out all the events at nampalibrary.org.

Dare to Discover I Hate Valentine’s Party This program for teens and adults is set for 1 to 2 p.m. Thursday, February 14, at the Library! at

Hillcrest. For more information, call 208-972-8340.

Cabin Fever Reliever If the winter blues are getting you down, then put the annual Cabin Fever Reliever on your calendar. It’s set for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, February 16, in Nampa’s Karcher Mall. Cabin Fever Reliever offers free education about healthy outdoor activities for kids and families and is a fun family-friendly event. Go to kidsfirstcast.org for more information.

WaterShed Weekend Join the Boise WaterShed every third Saturday of the month for nature and art activities the whole family may enjoy. Activities take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is free, and no pre-registration is needed. On February 16, the topic is “The Science of Snow Sports.” For more information, go to www.BoiseEnvironmentalEducation.org.

Family Field Trip Weekend Grab the kids and head for The Peregrine Fund’s World Center for Birds of Prey for an affordable day of fun and educational programs focused on conserving birds of prey. Family Field Trip Weekend will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, February 16-17. Visitors will see live bird demonstrations, tour the Archives of Falconry, participate in family-friendly crafts and activities, and spend time outdoors on the scenic interpretive trail. Children 16 and younger will be admitted free of charge. Regular admission rates apply for adults ($10) and seniors ($8). The center is located at 5668 W. Flying Hawk Ln. in Boise.

Idaho Family Magazine | FEBRUARY 2019 11

CALENDAR of Events

Children’s Reading Series Boise Contemporary Theater’s Children’s Reading Series is a popular program that presents the best of contemporary children’s theater in a creative environment, allowing children ages 6 and up to “hear a play.” Professional actors bring compelling stories to life — and there are free goodies. The performances are presented at 2 p.m. one Sunday a month (see BCT website for more information). A performance of “Polar Opposites: An Impossible Tale” is set for February 17. The play is described as, “About ice. And melting... A play featuring animals of the Arctic and Antarctic.” To purchase tickets, go to bctheater.org or call the BCT Box Office at 208-331-9224.

Family (Vaga)bonding If you want to travel (a lot) with your family and aren’t sure where to start, attend Family (Vaga) bonding from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, February 19, at JUMP’s Inspire Studio. During this two-part series, speakers will cover topics such as jobs, insurance, vehicle types, budgets, school, kids and pets. This class will cover the actual travel aspects once you’re prepared for a little lifestyle change.

Go to http://jumpboise.org/class-listings for more information.

Ada Library Activities Ada County Library branches feature a number of family- and youth-friendly programs. The following program takes place in February: Lake Hazel Branch Library, www.adalib.org/ lakehazel, 208-297-6700 • February 21, 6:30 p.m., Fairy Tale Ball, all ages welcome; come wearing fairy tale costumes and enjoy games, crafts, snacks and more

Idaho Shakespeare Festival Education Tour Launch Party Come celebrate and benefit Idaho Shakespeare Festival’s educational programming and statewide tours from 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday, February 21, at Cinder Wines, 107 E. 44th St. in Garden City.

There will be food and entertainment, and the event is family-friendly. Also see sneak previews of Idaho Theater for Youth productions, take part in a live auction, and more. Go to idahoshakespeare. org for more information.

GriefShare Anyone who has experienced the death of a family member or friend is invited to attend a new GriefShare group. GriefShare sessions are held each week on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. for 13 weeks at Grace Bible Church, 1415 Lone Star

cont.

Rd. in Nampa. The next session begins February 21. GriefShare is a non-denominational, biblical support group that focuses on helping people who are dealing with a loved one’s death. At each GriefShare session, you will find encouragement and help in grieving the death of your loved one. No matter the cause of your loved one’s death, this is an opportunity to be around people who understand what you are feeling.

The $20 individual ($30 per couple) registration fee includes materials. (There are scholarships available for those who can’t afford the fee.)

Information about the weekly topics may be found on the GriefShare website at griefshare.org. Those interested may also sign up for free daily email encouragements. To register for the group online, go to https://idahograce.com/griefshare. For additional information, call Sharon at 208-3081165 or contact her by email at sharonalmand@ gmail.com.

Fuel. Move. Breathe. Repeat This program is for anyone who has a body and consumes food. Linking movement and nutrition, the class will begin with some dance/fitness movement and end with a conversation to dispel the most common nutrition myths. It is open to all levels of movement and fitness and is for anyone ages 13 and up. It will be held from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Saturday, February 23, at JUMP’s Move Studio.

Go to http://jumpboise.org/class-listings for more information.

Teen Chopped Rising culinary stars are invited to compete in Teen Chopped!, a cooking contest for teens 13-18 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday, February 25, at Meridian Library District’s Cherry Lane branch.

Test your skills with mystery ingredients and make a unique dish within the time limits. Score your entry and one chef will survive but the rest will be Chopped! For more information, contact Trevor at trevor@mld.org or 208-888-4451.

Educational Support Group for Parents of Special Needs Children Come learn how to successfully advocate for your child’s needs and gain valuable insights from other parents of special needs children during a support group meeting from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, February 26, at the Cherry Lane branch of the Meridian library. The presenter will be Melinda Nelson. Go to mld.org for more information.

Spring Sports Madness for Moms and Sons Moms and their sons ages 3-13 are invited to Spring Sports Madness from 7:30 to 9 p.m.

Saturday, March 9, at the Nampa Rec Center.

Play basketball, dodgeball and other fun games;

12 FEBRUARY 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

spend time in the photo booth; and enjoy pizza.

Cost is $8 for members and $10 for non-members.

Go to nampaparksandrecreation.org for more information.

Flavorful Fairytales: “Clifford the Small Red Puppy” The Flavorful Fairytale for March at JUMP’s Share Studio is “Clifford the Small Red Puppy” and will take place from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 14. Participants will get to hear how Clifford grew to be such a big red dog. The story will be followed by a colorful felted paw print craft, with time afterward in the JUMP kitchen making a cheddarflavored puppy kibble snack mix. There is a ticket fee per participant, and all ages are welcome with a parent. Registration ends Tuesday, March 12.

Go to http://jumpboise.org/class-listings for more information.

World Water Day Celebration Join the Boise WaterShed as it marks World Water Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 16.

Water unites everyone around the globe and in the local communities. Celebrate the United Nations’ World Water Day with the theme of Leaving No One Behind (Human Rights and Refugees).

Free food and music will entertain participants as they explore City of Boise booths, a Pop-Up Library and participate in a community art project to create a water poetry mural. At 10:30, hear stories about the connection to water around the world. The first 100 people will receive a copy of the children’s book, “Spring Waters, Gathering Places” by Bryan Knaff and Sandra Chisholm DeYonge. For more information, go to www.

BoiseEnvironmentalEducation.org.

Food Truck Rally Goes to the Dogs The annual Food Truck Rally Goes to the Dogs is set for 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 16, at Lloyd Square Park in downtown Nampa. It’s free to attend, and there will be food and drink available for purchase. For more information, go to nampaparks.org or call 208-468-5858.

Green Pin Bowling Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day from 5 p.m. to midnight on Sunday, March 17, at Pinz in Meridian. Bowl a strike with a green head pin and win a $10 gift card to Wahooz, Pinz and Roaring Springs. For more information, go to pinzbowlingidaho.com.

Boise Contemporary Theater camp Get ready for a fun spring break at Boise Contemporary Theater’s Theater Lab: Spring Retreat. Learn acting, storytelling and the thrill of playing for an audience in this week-long workshop from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Friday, March 1822. For costs, registration, or other information, go to bctheater.org.

Boise Parks & Recreation camps Boise Parks & Recreation will hold a number of spring break camps March 18-22, including art camps, BUGS culinary camps, Foothills

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Learning Center nature camps, robot camps, and many others. For more information, go to parks. cityofboise.org, bee.cityofboise.org, or call 208-6087680.

Months of February-March, 2019 Please send family-related calendar items to editorgaye@gmail.com

Boise WaterShed camp The Boise WaterShed will hold a free Spring Break Drop-In Program, BLOCK fest at the WaterShed, March 18-29. Each day from 10 a.m. to noon, kids are invited to participate in hands-on BLOCK fest activities at the WaterShed at 11818 W. Joplin Rd. The whole family is welcome. For more information, visit http://bee.cityofboise.org/ watershed.

Zoo Boise camps Zoo Boise will hold spring break youth camps March 18-22, with Animals in Action for children in grades 2-6 and Zoo Careers for children in grades 7-10. Go to zooboise.org for more information on costs and how to register.

Idaho IceWorld camp

Spring Break Golf Camp

A Beginners Learn to Skate Camp for kids ages 5-12 is set for 9 a.m. to noon March 18-22. Camp includes skate rental, instruction from certified instructors, snacks, games, friendship and fun in a secure, family-friendly environment. Participants will receive a camp t-shirt to wear for the final-day performance, when skaters show off the skills they’ve learned throughout the week. (Skating fans should plan to arrive on Friday at 11:45 a.m. for “The Greatest Show on Ice!” performance.)

For more information including costs and how to register, visit idahoiceworld.com.

This camp for youngsters ages 7-15 will be held March 18-22 at Warm Springs Golf Course. The camp will focus on all aspects of the golf game and teach each youngster to be able to play a round of golf on their own. It will be held daily from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and all skill levels are welcome to participate. Camp will also include breaks for movies and downtime. Each student is responsible for his or her lunch each day and should dress appropriately for the weather conditions. There is a per-child fee.

Call the Warm Springs Pro Shop at 208-343-5661 to sign up.

Treasure Valley YMCA camps

BAM Wednesday Spring Break Sculpting Day Camp

The Treasure Valley YMCA invites youngsters to come find new talents, try new activities, gain independence and make lasting memories during the Y’s Spring Break Day Camps March 18-22. Camp topics include Little Chefs, Little Inventors, Little Monkeys, Little Princesses, Pre-K Adventures, Rookies Soccer Camp, Teen Art & Design, and others. For more information or to register, go to ymcatvidaho.org.

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Boise Art Museum will host a Sculpting Day Camp for children ages 7-12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, March 20. Students will explore sculpting for a day as they spend time in the galleries and the studios, exploring the capabilities of this unique medium. Participants should bring a sack lunch, drink, and water bottle. Children are required to be checked in and out of classes and camps at BAM by a parent or guardian. Cost is $35 for members and $40 for non-members. Preregistration is required by Friday, March 8. Go to my.boiseartmuseum.org.

Mary Poppins Spring Break Musical Theater Camp Treasure Valley Children’s Theater staff will teach this unique theater camp for kids ages 6-12.

The camp will take place from 9 a.m. to noon March 25-29 at the Meridian Community Center, 201 E. Idaho Ave. There is a per-child fee. For additional information and registration instructions, go to meridiancity.org/activityguide or visit treasurevalleychildrenstheater.com.

Wizard of Oz Interactive Movie The Wizard of Oz will be presented at Nampa Civic Center’s Interactive Movie Series on Friday, March 29. A Wizard of Oz trivia contest will start at 6 p.m.; and at 6:30, there will be a Wizard of Oz costume contest. The movie begins at 7 p.m., and participants are invited to not just watch the movie but interact with it. Audience participation is essential, and an interactive kit is include with admission. To buy tickets, go to http://www. ictickets.com/events/the-wizard-of-oz-interactivemovie. It’s a perfect program for the whole family.

Idaho Family Magazine | FEBRUARY 2019 13

IRENE’S INSIGHTS

A fresh, colorful master bedroom look

By Irene Archuleta Woodworth

T

he new year is a wonderful time for a fresh start, a new beginning, or as kids say, “A do-over!”

Usually, women are more visual than men. They are the first ones to realize that a change is needed. That is how I felt personally with the master bedroom and bath at our home. I needed a color change and a style change. I had the lavender and apple green with a hint of blue teal for over 12 years. It was time for a fresh start.

Irene Archuleta Woodworth Anytime we are going to start a new redesign project or a remodel with a client, the starting point is the color THINGS TO CONSIDER IN YOUR NEXT UPDATE selection. Both my husband and I really 1. After you have made your color selection, decide how you would like to like the color blue teal (peacock teal). We distribute the colors in your decor. Our color palette consisted of the decided to go bold this time. As an empty Ocean Blue Color (Benjamin Moore Laguna Blue #2059-30) in the Satin nester, I realized that I needed to start a Finish. The lightest tint of that color was BM Fountain Spout #2059-70. new chapter in my life. I use the Dewey My accent colors were BM Strawberry Red #2003-20 and Coral Pink Color System, a color test that predicts #2003-40. The flat finish on the ceiling was painted by my husband. (He personality. According to its creator, always amazes me how exact his lines are without using any tape.)

Dewey Sadka, “The color teal inspires 2. Make sure you include all of your colors and put them against white you to believe in your wishes. Wish cardstock to see the true value of your color. over and over until you believe in your 3. Since gold/brass is coming back, I decided to go to Habitat for Humanity capacity to accomplish your dreams. and look for some new towel racks. Sure enough, they had a variety of Believe in your wish and you will gain the rods in brass. There were several sizes and I bought enough to use for our capacity to believe in yourself.” master bath for $25 — such a deal. If you do not find enough, you could I have also been drawn to the color always spray paint them in your matching colors. I used the 2X Primer of coral (or salmon pink) for the last and Paint by Rustoleum. You can also use the brass/gold for your various two years. I have found this color finishes and accents in your home decor. enlightening and a very fun color for 4. I also repainted some of my vases with painter’s tape. I also painted my me. It is part of the red-orange palette. mid-century, long neck based lamp.

“Red-Orange gives you the self-respect 5. I have been a thrift store shopper for years. I walked into my local thrift to honor your individuality. Respecting store and lo and behold I found my reversible bedding and shams for $8. yourself starts with appreciating those Score! around you. Honor those who love and 6. Then I found the lined designer curtains in the red/orange and teal to respect you, and you will gain the power add more accents to the room. They only cost me $14 for the bedroom to honor yourself,” according to Sadka. and bath.

I found it interesting when I heard it is 7. Do not forget your home decor accents. In the accompanying photo, Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2019. check out the vase and flowers I found at a thrift store for less than $10.

When you use the combination of blue 8. We decided it was time to update our lights. We got the old Hollywoodteal and red orange, a complementary style lights and painted them in the matching gold color. Our bed color scheme, it helps you to “believe lamps were also painted in the same gold color. I even found an orange yourself.” This color combination is lampshade for my makeup dresser. I used the painter’s tape, gold spray addressing both my husband’s new life paint and then finished the edges with dollar store gold bling diamond directions and newer passions for our ribbon. fresh start.

14 FEBRUARY 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

Both my husband and I really like the color blue teal (peacock teal). We decided to go bold this time.

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SPRING BREAK DAY CAMPS March 18 – March 22, 2019 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Ages 7-12 Students can select from a variety of day camps designed to explore art through different materials. Camp participants will spend time in the galleries and the studios, concentrating on one medium per day. Sign up for one or more individual camps or the whole week!

Two special touches that color consultant Irene Archuleta Woodworth brought to the redesign of her master bedroom were a complementary color scheme and a large, handmade paper flower above the bed. (Courtesy photo) The main focal point in the room is the accent wall behind our bed. (By the way, I found a discounted headboard and later painted it a cream color, and it has served its purpose very well.)

I made all of the large paper flowers for our last Toastmasters area conference when I was the decorating chair. I am now selling handmade paper flowers on Facebook Marketplace under “Blooming Possibilities” in custom colors and styles to match your needs.

I will be sharing various types of decor you can make with paper crafts in a future issue of this magazine.

I hope these ideas will inspire you to make a fresh start in your decorating this new year. Remember, if you need assistance for your Custom Color Consultation, an interior redesign or shopping services, don’t hesitate to contact me. Contact me before February 1 and receive a 20 percent discount on any Redesign Boise service.

Monday: Painting Tuesday: Drawing Wednesday: Sculpting Thursday: Printmaking Friday: Collaging

Individual Day | $35 ($40 non-members) Full Week | $160 ($190 non-members) Must register in advance.

Visit www.boiseartmuseum.org for details.

Irene Archuleta Woodworth is known as “Idaho’s Color Lady” and is founder and CEO of Redesign Boise (“Changing Rooms...Changing Lives”). She is a national redesign award winner, motivational speaker, certified redesigner and color consultant, and instructor on redesign and color.

She has a degree in education and interior design and has taught various decorating and color classes throughout the country. For more information, visit RedesignBoise.com, call 208-450-2178, or email Irene@RedesignBoise.com.

February Is Children's Dental Health Month!

2min2x!

BRUSH

Call Today to Schedule an Appointment !

208.939.0600

450 W. State Street • Suite 180 • Eagle, ID www.DanStreeby.com

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2 minutes Brush nutes 2 x2ami day and 2 timeateshealthy a day a healthy ANDforeatsmile! healthy for a healthy smile!

Idaho Family Magazine | FEBRUARY 2019 15

Early Learning 2019 Preschool and Child Care Guide The following preschools and child care facilities are listed by zip code

BOISE 83702 A Bright Child Preschool & Daycare 1819 N. 18th St., Boise 83702 336-7228 abrightchild.com Another World Preschool 2200 W. Sunset Ave., Boise 83702 343-1633 Boise Bears Child Care Center 1803 N. 9th St., Boise 83702 343-3817 boisebearschildcareinc.com Boise River Montessori 2211 N. 26th St., Boise 83702 344-6303 boiserivermontessori.com Cathy’s Day Care 859 N. 29th St., Boise 83702 336-1295 Children’s Village 950 W. State St., Boise 83702 345-6408 https://www.ymcatvidaho.org/ locations/childrens-village/ Cooperative Preschool Two sites on North Latah Street in Boise 703-3823 or 342-7479 boisecooperativepreschool.org Foothills School of Arts and Science 618 S. 8th St., Boise 83702 331-9260 foothillsschool.org Giraffe Laugh Early Learning Center 9th St., Boise – 342-1239 12th St., Boise – 424-3387 State St., Boise – 954-5465 giraffelaugh.org Kids Are Special People 717 N. 11th St., Boise 83702 343-8441 kidsarespecialpeople.com Marian Pritchett School-Booth 1617 N. 24th St., Boise 83702 854-6830 boiseschools.org

The Children’s School 1015 N. 8th St., Boise 83702 343-6840 tcsboise.org St. Joseph’s Catholic School 825 W. Fort Street, Boise, ID 83702 208-342-4909 Treasure Valley Family YMCA 1050 W. State St., Boise 83702 344-5502 ymcatvidaho.org Wesleyan Preschool & Kindergarten 717 N. 11th St., Boise 83702 343-3778 wesleyanpreschoolboise.com

83703 Challenger Schools 5551 W. Bloom St., Boise 83703 338-9500 challengerschool.com Faye’s Family Daycare 1904 N. 28th St., Boise 83703 345-4641 fayesfamilydaycare.com Gem State Gymnastics Academy 5420 W. State St., Boise 83703 853-3220 gemstategymnastics.com Hillside Academy 3900 Hill Rd., Boise 83703 343-8919 hillsideboise.com Just For Kids 3 Locations in Boise North Mitchell Street – 854-5172 North Milwaukee Street – 854-6372 West Victory Road – 854-6720 Learning Tree School & Daycare Center 2908 N. 28th St., Boise 83703 342-7821 learningtreeboise.com Little Creations Preschool 3614 N. Market Lane, Boise 83703 853-9850 Shepherd’s Fold Day Care Center 2620 N. 36th St., Boise 83703 342-9141

R House Child Care 2185 W. Hill Rd., Boise 83702 343-8188 rhousechildcare.com

Walgamott Child Care 3019 N. 28th St., Boise 83703 343-9658

Ready Set Go Preschool 950 W. State St., Boise 83702 672-8015 readysetgopreschool.yolasite.com

Advantage Early Learning Center 9045 W. Irving St., Boise 83704 391-2222 advantageelc.com

83704

Alpha & Omega Day Care Center 7012 Folk Dr., Boise 83704 322-0087

2273 S. Vista Ave. #160; 433-9078 focaf.org

Camelot Castle Learning Center 10415 Excalibur Ave., Boise 83704 375-5018

Great Beginnings Child Care 715 S. Latah St., Boise 83705 336-3838 greatbeginningschildcare.com

Children’s House 1218 N. Hartman St., Boise 83704 322-1124

Hugs Child Development Center 4812 W. Franklin, Boise 83705 367-9111

Hillview Preschool 8525 W. Ustick Rd., Boise 83704 377-9280 hillviewpreschoolboise.org

Kid’z Connection 2310 S. Columbus St., Boise 83705 384-1191 kidz-connection.com

Kids Zone Daycare & Preschool 7119 Ustick Rd., Boise 83704 377-3556

Kootenai Kids Preschool 4802 W. Kootenai St., Boise 83705 424-5055 k2preschool.com

Little Lambs Learning Center 3000 N. Esquire Dr., Boise 83704 375-4841 Northview Montessori Preschool & Accelerated Kindergarten 7670 W. Northview St., Boise 83704 322-0152 northviewmontessori.com Salina’s Sunshine 6304 W. Butte St., Boise 83704 321-9401 SandCastles Children’s Learning Center 3214 Acre Lane, Boise 83704 376-7846 Snuggle Bug Day-N-Night Childcare Center 2103 N. Fry St., Boise 83704 St. Alphonsus Child Care Center 6520 Norwood Dr., Boise 83704 367-5164

83705 All Saints Children’s Center 704 S. Latah, Boise 83705 344-2537 allsaintsboise.org Bodies In Motion 729 W. Diamond St., Boise 83705 381-0587 bodiesinmotionidaho.com

Lee Pesky Learning Center 3324 Elder St., Boise 83705 333-0008 lplearningcenter.org Puentes Spanish Preschool 1605 S. Phillippi, Boise 83705 344-4270 puentes.biz Rose Hill Montessori School 4603 Albion St., Boise 83705 385-7674 rosehillmontessori.com Sacred Heart School & Kindergarten 3901 Cassia St., Boise 83705 344-9738 sacredheartboise.com Speech Spot LLC Children’s Speech Therapy 514-9243 boisespeechspot.com Vista Montessori School 2096 Gourley St., Boise 83705 343-0201 vistamontessori.net

83706 Beginning Years Child Care Center 2981 E. Boise Ave., Boise 83706 338-0000 beginningyearscc.com

Creative Children’s Center 419 S. Orchard St., Boise 83705 344-8221 creativechildrensctr.com

Bluebird Preschool, The 709 E. Riverpark Lane, Suite 150, Boise 83706 863-8415 thebluebirdpreschool.com

Friends of Children & Families, Inc. Head Start & Early Head Start 4709 W. Camas St., Boise 83705; 344-9187

Boiseko Ikastola | Basque Preschool 1955 Broadway Ave., Boise 83706 343-4234 boisekoikastola.org

16 FEBRUARY 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

Boise Cooperative Preschool (BCP) 300 N. Latah St., Boise 83706 703-3823 boisecooperativepreschool.org Boise State University Children’s Center 1830 W. Beacon St., Boise 83706 426-4404 childrenscenter.boisestate.edu Carden Preschool & Day Care 2211 S. Sumac St., Boise 83706 344-3336 Cozy Cottage Learning Center 507 W. Williams St., Boise 83706 608-6882 cozycottageboise.com Garabatos Spanish Preschool 1403 W. Boise Ave., Boise 83706 336-1552 boisegarabatos.com Granny’s Infant Care 4819 Corporal St., Boise 83706 345-2850 Kids Choice Child Care Center 2170 S. Broadway Ave., Boise 83706 343-7550 mykidschoice.com Lakewood Montessori 133 E. Linden St., Boise 83706 331-3888 lakewood-montessori.com New Horizon Academy 155 E. Boise Ave., Boise 83706 386-9108 newhorizonacademy.net Parkcenter Montessori 649 E. Parkcenter Blvd., Boise 83706 344-0004 boisemontessori.com South Boise Child Care Center 805 1/2 Richmond St., Boise 83706 333-0550 southboisechildcare.com

83709 All God’s Children Childcare 3838 S. Cole Rd., Boise 83709 362-0865 allgodschildrenchildcare.org Amity Community Preschool 11950 W. Amity Rd., Boise 83709 562-0931 At Grandma’s Child Care 1214 N. Cole Rd., Boise 83709 713-3845

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Bohrn To Achieve Childcare & Preschool 2555 S. Five Mile Rd., Boise 83709 672-0101 bohrntoachieve.com Calvary Christian School 111 S. Auto Dr., Boise 83709 376-0260 ccsboise.org Cloverdale Christian Day School 3755 S. Cloverdale Rd., Boise 83709 362-1702 cloverdalechurch.org/day-school Club Kid at Wings Center 1875 Century Way, Boise 83709 376-3641 wingscenter.com/child-care Five Mile Montessori 1439 S. Weideman Ave., Boise 83709 322-8981 fivemilemontessori.net Montessori Garden School / Caspari Montessori 9626 W. Victory, Boise 83709

562-1420 caspari-montessori.com/montessorigarden-school Mother’s Choice Child Care 1604 Penninger Dr., Boise 83709 375-4640

Tiny Treasures 7509 W. Camas St. Boise 83709 323-1174 tinytreasurechildcare.com

83712

Overland Montessori 1461 S. Weideman Ave., Boise 83709 322-9092 overlandmontessori.com

Little Luke’s 316 W. Washington St., Boise 83712 381-4670 https://www.ymcatvidaho.org/ locations/little-lukes-early-learningcenter/

Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Preschool 3100 S. Five Mile Rd., Boise 83709 362-1112 sovidpreschool.weebly.com

Music Lingua Foreign Language for Kids Boise 83712 571-1713 musiclingua.com

Spunky Monkey Preschool 323-8066 spunkymonkeypreschool.com

Parkside School 1017 E. Park Blvd., Boise 83712 283-2777 parksideschoolboise.com

Super Kids Day Care 3989 Black Hills Ave., Boise 83709 362-1246 super-kidsdaycare.com

83713

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Adventure Zone CDC 5630 N. Cloverdale Rd., Boise 83713 938-1028

Boise Valley Adventist School 925 N. Cloverdale Rd., Boise 83713 376-7141 bvas.org Born To Succeed Preschool & Childcare 4770 N. Shamrock Ave., Boise 83713 658-5561 myborntosucceed.com Cloverdale Montessori 12255 W. Goldenrod Ave., Boise 83713 322-1200 cloverdalemontessorischool.com Cross of Christ Preschool 11655 W. McMillan Rd., Boise 83713 375-3992 cocboise.org/preschool Deb’s Childcare and Preschool 12118 W. Mesquite Dr., Boise 83713 602-2842 debschildcare.com

Kidlink Learning Center 13013 W. Persimmon Lane, Boise 83713 331-4575 kidlinklc.com Kindermusik 12516 W. Fairview Ave., Boise 83713 861-6056 MusicCenterStudios.com Little Tigers Child Care Center 11911 W. Ustick Rd., Boise 83713 323-7885 llittletigerschildcarepreschool.com Marantha Christian School 12000 W. Fairview Ave., Boise 83713 376-7272 New Horizon Academy 11978 W. Ustick Rd., Boise 83713 323-8900 newhorizonacademy.net Rainbow Learning Center 3525 N. Cloverdale Rd., Boise 83713 323-7628

Idaho Family Magazine | FEBRUARY 2019 17

Early Learning 2019 Preschool and Child Care Guide The following preschools and child care facilities are listed by zip code Terri Hill’s Day Care 4251 Oxbow Way, Boise 83713 377-4434 Tumble Time Gymnastics 1379 N. Cloverdale Rd., Boise 83713 375-0063 tumbletimekidscenter.com

83714 Early Learning Children’s Center 7064 W. State St., Boise 83714 853-2800 earlylearningcc.com Kids Kampus Learning Center 8707 W. State St., Boise 83714 853-4247 boisekidskampus.com New Horizon Academy 12692 W. LaSalle St., Garden City 83714 376-2690 newhorizonacademy.net Ol’ McDonald’s Montessori 5890 N. Gary Ln., Boise 83714 853-2163 olmcdonalds.com Vineyard Christian Academy 4950 N. Bradley St., Garden City 83714 407-8197 vineyardchristianacademy.org

CALDWELL 83605 Alice’s Day Care 10741 Highway 20/26, Caldwell 83605 459-4160 Caldwell Adventist Elementary School 2317 Wisconsin Ave., Caldwell 83605 459-4313 mycaes.org Calvary Kids of Caldwell 911 Everett St., Caldwell 83605 454-5136 calvarycaldwell.com/home/ learningcenter/ Centennial Baptist School 3610 E. Ustick Rd., Caldwell 83605 454-1997 centennialbaptist.education Grace Lutheran Preschool 2700 S. Kimball Ave., Caldwell 83605 459-4191 gracelutherancaldwell.org Heritage Community Charter School 1803 E. Ustick Rd., Caldwell 83605

453-8070 heritagecommunitycharter.com Karla’s Day Care Center 522 N. 9th Ave., Caldwell 83605 459-0111 Lil’ Da Vinci Academy – Preschool with Imagination 19652 Commonwealth Ave., Caldwell 83605 709-1415 lildavinciacademy.weebly.com Little People Learning Center, aka LPLC 1310 Arthur St., Caldwell 83605 454-5652 Marble Front Head Start Center 20594 Ward Lane, Caldwell 83605 459-7010 wicap.org/head-start/marble-front Turner Center-Family Development 406 S. 14th Ave., Caldwell 83605 454-1324 Wonder Years Daycare and Early Learning Center 1502 Main St., Caldwell 83605 455-9876

EAGLE 83616 Cornerstone Children’s Center 1450 N. Prestwick Way, Eagle 83616 938-1368 Eagle Adventist Christian School & Preschool 538 W. State St., Eagle 83616 939-5544 eagleadventistchristian.com Eagle Christian Preschool 1107 E. Iron Eagle Dr., Eagle 83616 939-2272 eaglechristianpreschool.com Eagle Early Learning Center 223 N. Eagle Rd. #100, Eagle 83616 938-3344 eagleelc.com Eagle Wings Preschool 651 N. Eagle Rd., Eagle 83616 939-1351 eagleumc.com/eagles-wings-school Hope Lutheran Preschool 331 N. Linder Rd., Eagle 83616 939-9181 hopeeagle.org/hope-preschool

Montessori Academy 1400 N. Park Ln., Eagle 83616 939-6333 boisemontessori.com Polaris Learning Center 1323 E. Iron Eagle Dr., Eagle 83616 938-9830 polarislearning.net Seven Oaks Guided Discovery 1441 S. Seven Oaks Way, Eagle 83616 559-3379 ymcatvidaho.org/facilities

MERIDIAN 83642 A Child’s Choice Montessori School 1797 S. Millennium Way, Meridian 83642 288-1990 achildschoicemontessori.com ABC Club Daycare & Learning Center 650 W. Broadway Ave., Meridian 83642 895-6789 Advanced Therapy Care 68 S. Baltic Place, Meridian 83642 898-0988 advancedtherapycare.com Advantage Early Learning Centers 3677 E. Copper Point Way, Meridian 83642 391-2200 advantageelc.com Children’s Unique Styles 1915 W. Cherry Lane, Meridian 83642 888-7228 Cole Valley Christian Schools 200 E. Carlton Ave., Meridian 83642 947-1212 colevalleychristian.org Dreamland Education Center 875 W. Franklin Rd., Meridian 83642 288-2282 dreamlandchildcarecenters.com Healthy Beginnings Childcare 444 N. Linder Rd., Meridian 83642 887-0001 Idaho Learning Center / Joshua Institute 2150 W. Cherry Ln., Meridian 83642 893-5130 idaholearningcenter.org / joshuainstitute.org

18 FEBRUARY 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

Kids Connect Preschool 68 S. Baltic Place, Meridian 83642 898-0988 advancedtherapycare.com/kidsconnect

Ambrose School, The 6100 N. Locust Grove Rd., Meridian 83646 323-3888 theambroseschool.org

Melissa’s All Star Preschool 4703 W. Big Creek St., Meridian 83642 240-0296 http://meridianallstarpreschool. blogspot.com

Anchored Beginnings Preschool 4549 W. Quaker Ridge St., Meridian 83646 898-0664 anchoredbeginningspreschool.com

Meridian Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten 822 W. Cherry Ln., Meridian 83642 888-6810 Nature’s Childcare 2135 S. Cobalt Point Way, Meridian 83642 884-3833 natureschildcare.com Pine Creek Montessori 3774 W. Pine Creek Ct., Meridian 83642 893-5437 Smaller Scholar Montessori School 2150 W. Cherry Lane, Meridian 83642 888-6881 Sunshine Academy 737 N. Linder Rd., Meridian 83642 288-1007 Ten Mile Christian Preschool 3500 W. Franklin Rd., Meridian 83642 888-3101 tenmilecc.com Ten Mile Community Church Day Care Center 4440 E. Columbia Rd., Meridian 83642 362-4602 tenmileccc.com/school/ The Learning Launch Pad Preschool Ten Mile/Cherry Lane, Meridian 83642 351-2838 launchpadps.blogspot.com Tiggeriffic Preschool & Daycare 1302 N. Main St., Meridian 83642 912-3517 tiggerifficdaycare.org

83646 A Step Ahead Preschool and Daycare 3348 N. Meridian Rd., Meridian 83646 473-2420 astepaheadpreschoolidaho.com

Challenger School 2020 W. Everest Ln., Meridian 83646 846-8888 challengerschool.com/campus/ idaho/meridian/everest Dreamland Education Center 2501 N. Stokesberry Place, Meridian 83646 288-2205 dreamlandchildcarecenters.com Friendship Celebration Preschool 765 W. Children Blvd., Meridian 83646 288-2404 fclcpreschool.org Kids Choice 2210 W. Everest Ln., Meridian 83646 888-7540 mykidschoice.com King’s Kids Preschool & Kindergarten 50 W. Spicewood Dr., Meridian 83646 887-0801 http://kingskidsmeridian.org New Horizon Academy 1830 N. Meridian Rd., Meridian 83646 887-3880 newhorizonacademy.net/location/ idaho-meridian/

NAMPA 83651 ABC Country 432 Caldwell Blvd., Nampa 83651 465-7413 Apple Core Preschool 719 17th Ave. S., Nampa 83651 442-0035 Calvary Christian School A.C.E. 1210 N. Middleton Rd., Nampa 83651 467-9114 ccsnampa.org

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Creative Child Preschool 150 Delaware Ave., Nampa 83651 467-3652 Happy Days Child Care Center 215 N. Bonner Dr., Nampa 83651 466-0156 Kids Korner Child Care Center 423 18th Ave. S., Nampa 83651 467-3533 Nampa Christian Schools nampachristianschools.com Nampa Montessori Preschool 312 N. Canyon St., Nampa 83651 465-6179 nampamontessori.com Playful Child 420 17th Ave. S., Nampa 83651 466-1858 St. Paul’s Catholic School 1515 8th St. S., Nampa 83651 467-3601 nampacatholic.school Taffy’s House 212 21st Ave. S., Nampa 83651 467-5975 Teaching World 222 3rd Ave. S., Nampa 83651 465-5437 idteachingworld.com Tiny Tot Hotel Day Care Center 131 Smith Ave., Nampa 83651 467-4769

83686 ABC’s & 123’s Child Development Center 919 S. Diamond St., Nampa 83686 468-4999 Cowpoke Country Daycare 1127 E. Greenhurst Rd., Nampa 83686 463-0033 cowpokecountry.com Destiny Christian School PO Box 294, Nampa 83686 466-1264 Little Ones Preschool 3121 Custer Ave., Nampa 83686 463-1593 Messiah’s Children Preschool 534 W. Iowa Ave., Nampa 83686 465-4511 Safe Haven Day Care 2024 S. Banner St., Nampa 83686 467-3508

Immediate Openings Available!

Zion Lutheran Christian School 1012 12th Ave. Rd., Nampa 83686 466-9141 zlsnampa.org

208.466.1077 | www.BoiseChatterbox.com

83687

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Here We Grow Preschool • 7847 E. Red Oak Ct., Nampa 83687 • 350-9720 Liz’s Loving Child•Center 407 Stampede Dr., • Nampa 83687 (661) 616-7746 •

Polaris Learning Center 6224 Birch Ln., Nampa 83687 • 466-1322 polarislearning.net

Boise & Nampa Locations

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Idaho Family Magazine | FEBRUARY 2019 19

SICKBED LESSONS

All mom needed was a little boredom

By Mindy Scott

I

t is all too easy for us adults to stay occupied every minute of every day and be considered normal. But it ain’t normal. It’s not healthy. And I’m not participating anymore.

The new year started out terrifying for me.

On the night of January 2, I was rushed to the ER by a dependable friend. The pain I was experiencing under my left breast and rib cage was equal to, and almost greater than, the pains I’ve endured giving birth seven times.

I was afraid. I didn’t know what was causing the pain. I was fearful for my life. I could’t Mindy Scott walk upright. I couldn’t take in deep breaths.

I was panicking in all ways imaginable. Here I was...a single mom of seven young kids. Finally had work full-time. No health benefits, but that would come. I have a house and food and am working on rebuilding our lives. I had counseling appointments all lined up, speech therapy, doctor and dentist appointments. I was on a roll. And then this...

Upon arrival at the ER I was asked many questions. One being if I had recently been punched or kicked in the ribs.

I said no but it sure feels like it. After three rounds of blood work and a CT scan, it was determined I had walking pnemonia. With the delivery of that news I was allowed to finally have a drink. I chose juice to celebrate. There is a strange sense of peace when a word is linked to the crappy feeling one is having. It makes sense. The next step is: healing can BEGIN. After receiving an IV of fluids, antibiotics, and pain meds, I was presented with a big decision. The doctor was going to let me pick:

nurse. She said: “I know you are a busy mom and have seven kids, but you need to rest.

If you don’t rest, you WILL be back here.”

I assured her that I had heard her loud and clear and headed home for a 5-minute car ride of uncomfortableness. Thoughts were raging through my mind. Okay, you’re going to live. Next, how are you going to heal while being a mother to seven? That was equally as terrifying as the physical pain itself.

For the next 48 hours I slept. A lot. I took 2- to 5-minute “field trips” to the bathroom and then right back to sleep I went. I was surprised how much a person can sleep. It’s been a decade now that I’ve dealt with a lack of sleep while caring for others. My mother and several friends came to my rescue. They sent food, provided child care, and cleaned our house. With them, rest was now possible.

As I write this, it is now day four of antibiotics and pain meds, and my ribs are feeling better. I am coughing a lot and am short of breath several times throughout the day, but I’m going to live — and live I shall do.

It took this wake-up call for me to get the picture. I can’t burn the candle at both ends and expect it not to burn out.

It will melt into nothingness. And nothingness is where I was headed. I am creating a new plan on how to make money doing what I love, a new plan on how to spend more time with my kids, and a new plan on all the ways I can relax and enjoy this life right now in the moment.

I have a new gratitude for health, for life, and for time. I am eternally grateful for this shift in my thinking. Experiencing boredom may be just what I have needed all along.

A. Go home and heal, or B. Get admitted and heal at the hospital.

He suggested I choose whichever place I would likely heal better. I was laughing on the inside. Either option was gong to be tricky and costly in more than one way. Although I was tempted to pick option B (as I wouldn’t be expected to go to work or to take care of kids if I was layed up in the hospital), I chose A for comfort.

I required assistance getting dressed from the hospital gown into my street clothes, as lifting my left arm created extremely intense pain in my ribs and back. I took a ride in a new blue wheelchair, and my dependable friend pulled up to the sliding doors and I had curb service. As I went to stand up from the wheelchair, I remembered the last words of wisdom from my 20 FEBRUARY 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

Mindy Scott is a mother of seven who encourages other mothers to make themselves a priority in the areas of physical, mental and emotional health. She recently started a pet waste removal business she calls MOM Muckers, because “No one picks up pet waste quite like Mom!” She may be reached at mindylscott@gmail.com. www.idahofamilymagazine.com

SOCIAL MEDIA

Push away to draw closer

By Daniel Bobinski

A

ny more, you look around and As Zook had to re-learn, there’s virtual life, you see people looking down. Not and there’s real life. emotionally down, but physically One common phrase that’s now associated looking down. They’re looking with social media is “the fear of missing out,” down at electronic devices. And these days it’s or FOMO. It’s what drives people to check not just teens, but every age group. They’re their device during face-to-face conversations checking their Instagram. Or Qzone or if a message alert sounds. To the person Facebook. Or LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twitter, or checking the alert, it’s not an interruption, Google+. Sorry if I missed your favorite social it’s the possibility for a more interesting “anetwork, but you get the idea. Too many ha” piece of news — but there’s no way of people are missing out on real life in exchange knowing until they check. for a virtual life.

Or maybe there is no alert. Maybe the Connecting with others on social media conversation around us is just in a lull, Daniel Bobinski certainly has its benefits. But recent so we pick up our device and start studies are showing that reducing (or scrolling, thinking that we’ll find a more eliminating) social media use also has interesting, more exciting piece of news significant benefits, such as improved going on somewhere else. After all, interpersonal relationships, better sleep, there’s a whole world of exciting events and — imagine this — more exercise. and people out there and if we just keep There’s even evidence showing that scrolling, perhaps we will feel connected reducing or eliminating social media use to something bigger than ourselves. correlates to reduced anxiety levels.

Except we won’t be.

I’d like you to consider the unique perspective of Jason Our family and friends are sitting right there, wishing we Zook. Writing on his blog, Wandering Aimfully, Zook says that would be talking with them. They are longing for us to be after six years of heavy social media use, he knew he needed focusing on their thoughts and feelings. They are wanting us a break. Zook took a radical step: he went on a self-imposed to hear them talk about their day. They are part of the reality cold-turkey social media “detox.” And, for our benefit, kept a that is right in front of us. They are the people who are truly journal of his thoughts and experiences. Here’s some excerpts connected to us. They are part of our real life. from day one: Dr. Daria Kuss is a Chartered Psychologist, Senior Lecturer in Psychology and a member of the Cyberpsychology All notifications were turned off. All apps were removed. And I felt an Group at Nottingham Trent University in England. immediate feeling of freedom living without social media …. I had spent Writing in Psychology Today, Dr. Kuss says there are six 30 minutes answering emails. One of my first realizations was just how simple questions to ask yourself to see if you are at risk of much time can be wasted browsing social networks without knowing it. I developing an addiction to social media. They are: could feel myself wanting to sneak a peek at Facebook, so I decided to get • Do you spend a lot of time thinking about social media or up from my desk and run an errand …. planning to use social media?

You’d think getting in a car would be an escape from social media and • Do you feel urges to use social media more and more? technology, but most of us don’t even realize how much we’re checking • Do you use social media to forget about personal problems? things while driving. I probably glanced down at my phone 20 times during • Do you often try to reduce your use of social media without the course of an eight-minute drive. Then I hit a stoplight. Like a drug success? addict reaching for his/her fix, I scooped my phone up from the cupholder • Do you become restless or troubled if you are unable to use and swiped it open. It wasn’t until I was staring at a barren Home screen, social media? devoid of red notification icons, that I realized what I was doing. I closed • Do you use social media so much that it has had a negative the phone and put it back in the cupholder. As I moved my gaze from the impact on your job or studies? center console to the front windshield I took notice of how beautiful a day Dr. Kuss goes on to say that if you answer yes to all six it was. Not a single cloud in the sky and the trees on the sides of the road questions, then you may have, or may be developing, an slowly swaying back and forth in a cool Florida breeze. I rolled down the addiction to social media. windows and took the moment of beauty in, completely understanding how Continued on Page 23 often I take for granted amazing weather and a moment of stillness.

Too many people are missing out on real life in exchange for a virtual life.

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Idaho Family Magazine | FEBRUARY 2019 21

MANIC MOTHERING

12 steps to a perfect thank you note

By Beth Markley

W

e returned from a trip one time for that mea culpa to the deacon you called to a stack of newspapers on last week with a polite but panicked query the counter and a pile of mail, about the program artwork his marketing on top of which were three department was to have sent the week before, hand-addressed note cards for me. and who subsequently likely heard you cussing It felt like Christmas all over again. like a sailor on his voice mail when you didn’t Oh, the art and tradition of the handwritten properly hang up. note, sent by parcel post with a bona fide, first Step 4. Think about what you’ll say. The best class stamp. Proof positive each and every one thank yous are succinct but comprehensive, of us is more than just a random collection warm without being disingenuous, witty of cells that managed to drag itself from the without snark, direct, light-hearted, friendly, muck and become capable of inventing such gracious, effusive, gregarious, convivial, and wonders as two-ply toilet paper with little inspiring. Generally, you just want to give your

By Beth Markley flowers stamped on it. reader a sense of floating above a field of freshly There is nothing quite like putting together the perfect bloomed lavender, which waves languidly in the summer note, one which you know your friends will open with glee, breeze while fluffy, white clouds float across an azure sky. and pause to appreciate you as a highly civilized person, Step 5. I was kidding. Just say “Thanks, that was nice of regardless of the type of toilet paper you stock. you,” or something simple. Don’t use too many commas or I happen to have a stack of thank yous of my own to write. words you consistently misspell. You don’t want to have to But the thrill I experienced coming home to a few addressed cross stuff out and look like you hired a fifth grader to do to me inspired a procrastinative pause to compile a few, this. And on that note, you should know a kitten dies every simple steps to crafting the perfect one. time you use an exclamation point, so be sparing on the bold Step 1. Stock up on pretty note cards to have on hand when statements. And please understand, if you use any of those the need arises. They can be simple, unprinted cards, or bubble hearts for “i” dots, I will personally hunt you down expensive monogramed things that scream so much business, and take away all your flower-stamped toilet paper. the mere act of opening your note will likely obligate the Step 6. Wait a sec. Before you write anything, take out some recipient to lunch at the club. scratch paper and practice your cursive. Remember cursive?

Step 2. Get a good pen. Avoid writing utensils that leak It’s classy. And easier than the calligraphy you learned in like you do these days when you sneeze. Random ink globs ninth grade, and subsequently every grandparent, godmother diminish the joy of the note-writing experience. You want and aunt expected every note to look like it was penned to pay attention to ink flow as well. Nothing says “my family by the queen mother or something. Cursive isn’t as bad as tends to intermarry” like ink smeared across the page from a calligraphy so buck up, sister. goopy pen.

Step 7. Get another drink. This time make it a double and Step 3. Set the stage. Kick everyone out of the house, breathe. You don’t have to write the dang thing in cursive. change into comfy clothes, put on soothing music. Get Nobody can read that stuff anymore anyway. Since you’ve something to drink — note-writing’s thirsty work. The apparently devolved into writing exclusively in the big, block beverage should correlate roughly to the correspondence. A lettering you developed when helping your kindergartener soothing cup of tea works for the letter to your committee learn his ABCs, just go with that. At least it’s legible, and member who takes excellent notes at meetings. Vodka rocks you’re running out of time. Everyone will be home soon and start asking about dinner.

Step 8. Get the address. You’ll find it either on the Christmas card list you stored in a file on your computer...someplace.

Or maybe it’s on that business card you stowed in your purse.

There, in the back pocket with the lip balm and the remains of the 10-year-old throat lozenge that broke into a million pieces at some point. Do NOT take the time to clean out your purse right now, there are people coming home at any minute and you are going to get at least one thank you note done this afternoon, you loser.

22 FEBRUARY 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

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Step 9. WHY do we never have freaking STAMPS in this HOUSE? What are we, primates? Would it be possible to ever have a book of stamps on hand to send out a simple note once in a while? . . . Refresh your drink.

Step 10. Tear the house apart looking for stamps. Mash some peanut butter sandwiches together when the kids come home wanting dinner. Dissolve into a puddle of self-pity on the bathroom floor because you cannot, apparently, function as a fully-fledged adult and complete this most basic act of courtesy.

Step 11. Calm down. Sober up. Buy stamps. While you’re at it, buy some better pens, too. And maybe some nice note cards and envelopes for the next time you get the bright idea to write a note.

Step 12. Find the handwritten note you forgot about days (or even weeks) later when you finally sort through the stack that’s been pushed to the back of the desk with a bunch of papers. Stick a stamp on it. Put it in the mail. You’re terrible at this, but you can hold your head high for at least getting it done, which is more than we can say for 90 percent of the entire human population.

Beth Markley is a humor writer and fundraising consultant who lives in Boise with her husband and son (with one son off to college). She writes regularly on her website, MidlifeSentence.com (Dispatches from the Crossroads of ‘Been There Done That’ and ‘Oughta Know Better’).

SOCIAL MEDIA Continued from Page 21 In my own life, I found myself influenced more and more by the “fear of missing out.” The big, exciting world had so many events that seemed more exciting than the people and events going on 30 feet around me.

Except they weren’t.

They were only virtual. It is my family and friends in the room with me who are real. I found I had to push the devices away. Only then could I draw closer again to people around me.

Social media has its place, but the research is coming in. Push the devices away more often, and you’ll draw closer to the people around you.

Daniel Bobinski, M.Ed. is a certified behavioral analyst, a bestselling author and a popular speaker at conferences and retreats.

He loves teaching teams and individuals how to use Emotional Intelligence, and his videos and blogs on that topic appear regularly at www.eqfactor.net. Reach him at daniel@eqfactor.net or (208) 375-7606.

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