Idaho Family 10 2018

FREE

October 2018

SOCIAL MEDIA Is it still fun?

KIDS & CRITICAL THINKING

CLAIRE THE ARTIST Little girl, huge talent

What’s real, what isn’t?

See inside for...

Special Needs Guide 2

9-year-old Claire, of Boise, is both a talented artist and a budding entrepreneur

Contents

October 2018

Features 4

Claire

Young creator of art

Columns 8 The Horney Village

Baby teeth

15 Recipes

by Bethany Smoothies for breakfast

Critical thinking Skills for kids

Decisionmaking

6

10

Final touches An ordered home

20 Manic

11

Departments Child

Meet the siblings

When it’s thankless

You still matter

Editor Gaye Bunderson editorgaye@gmail.com Sales & Marketing J.J. Plew jjplew82@gmail.com 208-697-2043 Contributors Kimberly Blaker, Bethany Camp, Macaile Hutt, Beth Markley, Jessie Horney, Mindy Scott, Ruth Anna Spooner, Mary Ann Wilcox

Distribution Shauna Howard, Doris Evans

Not scared (usually)

19 Wednesday’s

Special Needs Guide 2

Publisher J.J. Plew

Graphic Design Carol Smiley csmileydesign@gmail.com

Mothering

You’re the captain

Volume 6, Number 10

16

In Each Edition 22

3 Editor’s Intro Social media

12 Family Events Calendar

2 OCTOBER 2018 | Idaho Family Magazine

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 2018 by Gem Production Co., LLC. Follow us on Facebook www.idahofamilymagazine.com

EDITOR’S Intro

Keeping the good in social media

S

ocial media is getting more and more complicated. It started out as fun, but it’s turned into, well, something else altogether — privacy concerns, election meddling, toxic content issues, and many other adverse things.

I’m sure we’ve all had a lot of fun on social media. I know I’ve enjoyed staying in touch with family, former co-workers, and even people I went to school with many years ago. But I’ve grown disillusioned. Have you?

With the gigantic growth of Facebook, it seems to have lost its way and become a mega-company more interested in power and money than actual communication between people. It’s much the same for Twitter. I haven’t waded back onto Facebook since someone posted a child abuse video in my newsfeed months ago. And with Twitter, I’ve tried to skirt around all the negative news and politics — not completely, I admit, but mostly. So what I’ve done over the past months is collect cheery tweets about families and some miscellaneous topics. They are upbeat and made me laugh. They seem appropriate to share with you. (By the way, two tweets are from a “dog,” and they’re two of my favorites.) My point really is that some good remains in social media, and here are some examples:

Jen Hatmaker, from @JenHatmaker on 4/11

Am I perfect mom? No. But am I trying my best to be a perfect mom? Also no.

Katie, from @katemary327 on 6/6

“What do you do?”

“I work with middle schoolers.”

“Oh, bless your heart. You couldn’t pay me to work with middle schoolers.”

Listen up! These middle schoolers are some of the kindest, most generous, and funny humans I’ve ever met. Don’t count this generation out!

ship, from @shiphitsthefan on 7/18

Swim class: “He’s silly!” the little girl says, pointing at my kid.

“I want to play with him.”

“Be gentle,” says her grandmother.

“I saw on Sesame Street,” and she jumps beside my spinning son.

There’s an autistic, nonverbal Muppet. Don’t tell me representation doesn’t matter.

Thoughts of Dog, from @dog_feelings on 7/19

sometimes. i will yawn really big. and soon after. the human will also yawn. i have yet to decide. what to do with my powers

Adam Melia, from@Adam__Melia on 8/5

My friend Luke didn’t realise until he was an adult that lukewarm was a real temperature; he thought it was just a term his mum used to describe his bath water.

Sabaa Tahir, from @sabaatahir on 9/12

Heard my 6yo slowly and painstakingly reading a Nat Geo book about otters to his stuffed otter b/c “I wanted him to know about his family.”

Suzanne Eller, from @suzanneeller on 8/17

As we were walking, suddenly we were in a flood of rain, wind, and massive lightning. We were running for home, drenched, when a woman and child still in their pjs pulled up and asked to take us home. She had seen us out her window and got in her car to find us. #KindnessMatters It’s me, the editor, again.... Social media isn’t going away anytime soon, so we need to search out — and contribute to — the good of it. It’s okay, I believe, to post when you’re going through tough times and need support. I’ve seen people rally around one another in those situations. Just try to avoid the darker side of politics, human behavior, and anything else that makes others feel unnecessarily bad.

Here’s one last tweet from the dog, just to make you feel happy:

Thoughts of Dog, from @dog_feelings on 7/23

7/23/18, 7:50 PM everything. is going to be alright. because guess what. i love you — Gaye Bunderson, editor

Children’s Photos Wanted

FREE

October 2018

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.

9-year-old Claire, of Boise, is both a talented artist and a budding entrepreneur.

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

SOCIAL MEDIA

Is it still fun?

KIDS & CRITICAL THINKING What’s real, what isn’t?

CLAIRE THE ARTIST

Little girl, huge talen t

See inside for...

Special Nee

ds Guide 2

9-year-old Claire talented artist , of Meridian, is both a and a buddi ng entrep reneu

r

Idaho Family Magazine | OCTOBER 2018 3

THE KID artist

Claire creates beauty at age 9

By Ruth Anna Spooner

W

A sloth — smiling contentedly as it atercolor is a notoriously peeks out of a coffee mug that has the challenging medium to word “sloffee” on it paint in, but 9-year-old A baby elephant — spraying bright Claire thrives on it. Moving blue specks of water out of its trunk, with precise and sure strokes, her small grinning gleefully hand grips a fine brush as she adds the These are a few of the many pictures final flourishes to her latest masterpiece: Claire has produced over the past two a picture of orcas swimming in drippy years. swirls of a blue-green ocean, with one “She gives her adorable animal subjects whale hovering near the surface, reaching personalities and stories in such a creative its nose to touch the outstretched hand of way that words are unnecessary in telling a girl in a tiny rowboat. With a shy grin, the story of her subject matter,” says Leah Claire holds up the finished painting.

Mong, a former art teacher of Claire’s.

It looks astonishingly realistic, but with “It is a true gift, especially for someone so a playful whimsicality. Most people would young.” find it hard to believe that a 9-year-old Cori Anderson, a local poet and painted it without Claire holds a painting of the Gem State. During farmers market season, any help from an Claire sells her creations in order to help children’s book author, also noticed adult. But you fund the purchase of more art supplies. Claire’s talent and invited her to illustrate one of her books, “What God Made.” It (Courtesy photo) can see for was published in 2017, with approximately yourself. On 10-12 custom-made watercolor paintings by Claire. “What her Facebook handle, C-Bear impresses me most about Claire’s art is the detail and Art, several time-lapse videos show Claire in action, sketching and beauty that she paints, especially at such a young age,” Cori says. “She made [my] simple words come alive with her painting various pieces of artwork paintings.” from start to end, including the Claire will illustrate a second book for Cori, due out this orca painting. “People usually don’t fall, titled “Everyone Is Special.” believe me, that I do it,” Claire says.

Neither of Claire’s parents are artistic, and even though “They think it’s my mom’s art or Claire has taken a few art classes, she is mostly self-taught. something when they see it. But I do From a young age, she has always spent hours practicing it by myself.” drawing, even as young as 1-year-old when she would add And then she adds, “And it’s really extraordinarily precise details and doodles to pictures. fun to paint!”

Today, Claire’s skills have advanced beyond her parents’ Claire delights in painting animals, rudimentary drawing abilities, and her mother, Mary and she often adds lighthearted, creative twists to her pictures, such as: Beth Johnston, is often astonished by what she creates. “I am always amazed at how she can nail different angles A giraffe — exquisitely detailed — peering directly at the viewer through and perspectives,” Mary Beth says. “She makes it look so natural and easy as she puts it on paper.” old-fashioned librarian glasses, as if It was not so easy, however, to convince Claire to share inviting you to comment on its dapper her art with people outside the family. A strong introvert by bow tie nature, Claire did not want to enter any art competitions or Nine-year-old artist, Claire, painted show her work in public despite encouragement from her this picture of a dapper giraffe in parents and teachers. At about age 7, Claire finally agreed glasses and a bow tie. A former art to share her work. “She was very nervous and shy about teacher of Claire’s says she imbues showing people her creations,” her mother recalls, “but her animals with “personalities and when she realized that her art truly does bring joy to others, stories.” (Courtesy photo) she really blossomed artistically. And her level of enjoyment increased tenfold.”

4 OCTOBER 2018 | Idaho Family Magazine

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

In fact, Claire loved sharing her art so much that she started her own little business, C-Bear Cards. For the past two years, Claire has been printing her paintings on charming cards that she sells to family, friends, and also at the farmers’ market. But high-quality art supplies do not come cheap. Thus, C-Bear Cards was born, as a way of not only sharing her art but also earning money towards buying and maintaining her art supply stash.

“I felt super nervous to sell my art at first because I’d never done it and didn’t know if people would like it or not,” says Claire. But apparently people love her work: Claire sold nearly 1,000 cards in 2017, mostly through word of mouth.

When she made a few Christmas watercolor designs, they quickly sold out. Over this past year, Claire has made 46 new paintings to be printed on cards, and she occasionally takes special orders for custom watercolor paintings, doing people’s pets or landscapes.

Claire had a booth at the Meridian farmers’ market on select Saturdays during the summer. Her parents handle the social media aspects of her business and are always present to provide guidance at the market, but they encourage Claire to chat with her customers independently. “I want her to learn how to interact with people,” Mary Beth explains. “She is an introvert by nature, so it really pushes her. She has grown and improved so much.”

And what will Claire do with all of her earnings? Buy more art supplies, of course, but Claire has bigger plans. “I want to save up to go on a mission trip to Africa,” she says. “I hope to go when I am a teenager.” She explains that she usually spends a little bit of her earnings on new art supplies and the occasional small toy, donates some money to her church or school, and then puts most of it into her savings account.

Her parents are careful to make sure that Claire does other

activities, not just art. “I don’t want art to become not fun for her anymore,” explains Mary Beth. “I want her to learn lots of different things from this experience, but I want her to always enjoy herself when she’s creating art. Even though she is slow to show it on the outside — slow to smile — she really is energized and joyful when she shares her artistic creations.”

When people talk about the little details in her paintings, Claire breaks out into a happy smile. “I like to make beautiful things,” she says, “and paying attention to the details and getting them right in my painting.”

To see Claire’s artwork — an array of greeting cards and original watercolors — and to see Claire in action, check out C-Bear Art’s page on Facebook.

MAKE ART TOGETHER!

Drop-in artmaking programs for children accompanied by an adult. Free with the price of admission.

Toddler Wednesday October 3, 2018 10:00 a.m. - Noon Build a sculpture of a person after exploring the Matteo Pugliese: The Guardians.

Family Art Saturday Sponsored by Richard and Sondra Hackborn

October 27, 2018 Noon - 3:00 p.m.

Discover Matteo Pugliese: The Guardians and create your own warrior.

670 Julia Davis Drive, 83702 208.345.8330 www.boiseartmuseum.org

Claire enjoys painting pictures of animals, including this one of a momma elephant and her baby.

(Courtesy photo) www.idahofamilymagazine.com

Idaho Family Magazine | OCTOBER 2018 5

WHAT’S real?

Teach kids critical thinking skills

By Kimberly Blaker

E

very day we’re inundated with information and often from two opposing sides. So how do we teach kids to evaluate the information they read and hear, whether it comes from the media, our leaders, family, or friends?

Teaching kids to think critically is the solution and is crucial to their developing the ability to assess information and form logical conclusions about that which is presented to them. Fortunately, there are many ways parents can foster critical thinking in their kids and help them to develop problemsolving skills.

Ways to foster critical thinking

Use play as an opportunity to foster critical thinking

Kids often learn best through play. Whatever they’re playing, encourage them to strategize.

If it’s a board game, have them think through their next move and consider what their opponent might do. If building with Legos, have your child consider how the placement of one piece will affect the placement of other pieces and the look or functionality of the structure.

Take advantage of everyday tasks

Giving kids real-life opportunities to problem solve Ask your child questions. When is an excellent way to hone their your child asks a question or critical thinking skills. When comments on a situation, look your child is doing chores, for for opportunities to ask questions example, allow him or her to do rather than immediately providing it their way a few times to see an answer. Open-ended questions if your child can figure out the offer your child the chance to think most efficient way to conquer the and assess. Examples of questions Critical thinking skills help children discern fact from fiction. task.

There are books that can help you teach your child critical you can ask are, “What would you If after several tries it’s taking thinking skills, including one titled, “Bringing UFOs Down do to solve this problem?” or “I’d to Earth.”

(Photo by Pixaby) your child longer than necessary like to hear what you think.” or the job isn’t getting done as Once your child has answered, ask in a nonjudgmental well as it could, ask your child to think of a way to do it that’s tone for your child to defend his or her answer. “Can you faster or does the job better.

Allow your child time to think tell me why you think that?” or “What led you to this about it so he or she can find a solution.

If your child can’t conclusion?” are a couple of questions to get your child to come up with a solution, give your child a tip and ask how expound on his answer. Asking such questions provides your that might help. child additional opportunity to consider how he arrived at his answer. Through the process of thinking and talking about it, your child might discover any faulty thinking in his initial response.

Regardless of whether or not your child’s thinking was correct or logical, praise your child for his effort in thinking his answer through. Then, if your child’s reasoning is faulty, gently explain what you believe and why to help correct assumptions or misconceptions.

6 OCTOBER 2018 | Idaho Family Magazine

Encourage thinking outside the box

Kids already have the innate ability to think outside the box, which is also known as “divergent thinking.” But as kids grow, thought becomes more convergent. A certain degree of convergent thinking is necessary, so we don’t give the same weight to all possibilities. Still, a certain amount of divergent thinking is crucial to the ability to solve problems.

When the opportunity arises, ask your child to think of all the possible ways a problem might be solved or something can be done. Then ask her to consider and weigh out the pros and cons of each solution to determine which is best. www.idahofamilymagazine.com

“Too often we give children answers to remember rather than problems to solve.”

— Roger Lewin Ph.D., British anthropologist and science writer

BOOKS THAT TEACH CRITICAL THINKING The following books encourage kids to think critically and show them how to evaluate situations, examine beliefs, and understand the methods of science. Some of these books also contain activities to help kids hone their critical thinking skills.

Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery? by Kimberly Blaker.

Grades 4 to 8. In this book, kids discover the tricks astrologers use to create horoscopes, which create the illusion of horoscopes being valid forecasts or assessments of personality. Kids can do a fun personality test to help them see how horoscopes are created. Then they can test the validity of horoscopes in real life. The book contains seven activities to entertain and educate kids on the scientific process and making deductions as they sleuth for the truth about astrology.

Bringing UFOs Down to Earth by Philip J. Klass.

Grades 4 to 7. In this fun book, kids learn fascinating facts about UFOs and how UFO reports are investigated. They also learn about rational and scientific explanations for UFO sightings and reports.

How to Fake a Moon Landing: Exposing the Myths of Science Denial by Darryl Cunningham.

Grades 7+. This book addresses eight hotly debated science topics in which the author discusses the research and current thinking on each issue. Readers discover how people on all sides of the issues manipulate information to suit their views. In the end, teens are armed with the needed information to draw conclusions on each topic.

An Illustrated Book of Bad Arguments

by Ali Almossawi.

Grades 7+. This beautifully illustrated and handy book introduces readers to a variety of faulty arguments people use including ad hominem attacks, the straw man fallacy, slippery slope arguments, and more. Throughout the book, the characters commit every error in reasoning imaginable, thereby providing readers clear examples of logic failures.

How Come? Every Kid’s Science Questions Explained by Kathy Wollard and Debra Solomon.

Grades 4 to 6. Kids discover the answers to more than 200 mysteries and phenomena in this fun-filled book. They learn the secrets to why stones can skip across water rather than immediately sinking and whether running to shelter when it’s raining keeps you drier than walking.

Logic to the Rescue: Adventures in Reason by Kris Langman. Grades 5 to 9. In this sword-and-sorcery fantasy story, kids learn about logical fallacies, how to test a hypothesis, and set up experiments in biology, chemistry, and physics.

Flat Earth? Round Earth? by Theresa Martin.

When a schoolteacher passes out clay spheres to the class to be decorated, one student crushes his, arguing the earth is flat. This leads to a trip to the principal’s office where the boy, unwilling to succumb to “common knowledge,” poses several arguments. The narrator then takes on the challenge of providing proof the earth is round. The book teaches kids the value of questioning and not taking things at face value.

Philosophy for Kids: 40 Fun Questions That Help You Wonder About Everything by David White. Grades 4+.

In this interactive book, kids have the opportunity to grapple with philosophical questions that have been discussed and debated as far back as the ancient Greeks right on through modernday thought. Philosophy for Kids is filled with fun and exciting activities to help them understand philosophical concepts.

How Do You Know It’s True? Discovering the Difference Between Science and Superstition

by Hy Ruchlis.

Grades 7 to 10. In examining a variety of superstitions such as astrology and the unlucky number 13, the author addresses the problem that the nature of superstition is that it’s unobservable. He also does an excellent job illustrating the dangers of magical thinking. The book helps readers walk away with a better understanding of science.

Sasquatches from Outer Space: Exploring the Weirdest Mysteries Ever by Tim Yule.

Grades 4 to 7. Have you ever wondered if there’s any truth to the stories about Big Foot, the Loch Ness Monster, UFOs, or astrology? These mysteries and more are explored in this book, which also provides readers hands-on experiments they can do to get to the truth of these tales.

Nibbling on Einstein’s Brain: The Good, the Bad and the Bogus in Science by Diane Swanson and Francis Blake.

Grades 3 to 7. In this book, kids learn how to tell the difference between good science and faulty science. The author encourages critical thinking through a combination of fascinating fictitious scenarios and real-world examples.

Nibbling on Einstein’s Brain includes fun activities to help kids develop critical thinking skills.

The Magic Detectives: Join Them in Solving Strange Mysteries by Joe Nickell.

Grades 4 to 6. This book contains 30 short mystery stories of paranormal investigations, each one containing clues to uncover the mystery. At the end of each story, kids flip the book upside down to read the ‘magic detectives’ conclusions.

Stories include haunted stairways, the mummy’s curse, poltergeists, and more.

Kimberly Blaker is the author of a kid’s STEM book, Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery? containing fun experiments to help kids understand the scientific method and develop critical thinking skills. www.idahofamilymagazine.com

Idaho Family Magazine | OCTOBER 2018 7

THE HORNEY village

Daughter loses teeth, mom

By Jessie Horney

M

y oldest child keeps losing her teeth, one tiny white chiclet after another twisting out and leaving gaping holes behind. Most recently, she lost one of her top front teeth and I held it in my hand for a long time afterwards, turning it over and examining each angle, remembering the nights it kept us both awake.

She was 7 months old and I was 26, finally finishing my bachelor’s degree despite the exhausted wide-eyed wonder of new motherhood. My husband worked out of town most of each month, so it was just me and the baby, our love story an expanding plot line in my life. I wrote so much about her that first year, each university writing class another avenue to explore the intensity of mothering and the raw vulnerability which follows. I remember strange details from those times, magnified by novelty and loneliness. I remember the smell of her milk-soaked pajamas. I remember her smooth cheek against mine as we slow danced back to sleep. I remember the low light in her nursery, the way shadows held us up like prayers as we learned each other’s heartbeat in those bleary, wakeful nights.

And those brand new teeth. I remember the pain of those particular tears. She’d wake up crying 4, 5, maybe 8 times in one night, pain bleating from her throat. Each tooth was another triumph, a sharp and solid reminder that she was growing up, becoming more and more human, less celestial.

Less angel in my arms, more person with her own story.

These hard-won teeth now fall into my waiting hands and I stare at the little girl standing in front of me, her eyes shining proud with tears, blood dribbling from her mouth. I stare at the teeth and wonder, “But aren’t these mine?”

She loses them with no thought to the getting of them, because she does not remember those long nights. The pain flitted away with the rest of her babyhood memories, which are now just pictures of an infant she does not know, stories as disconnected as the lone tooth in my hand.

So I hold the teeth, and the girl runs off with her fresh dollar, which she will assuredly squirrel away like all her other money because at 6 years old she is already more responsible than most adults I know. For her 6th birthday she begged for a luggage set, not only for the fun of traveling in style, but for the deeply satisfying task of packing and repacking her own clothes with no family members rifling through her neatly folded outfits. She started school this year and oh, how I ached as she walked into that kindergarten classroom, away from my arms.

I want to hang a sign from her neck that says, “This is my darling girl and she is a gift. Please act accordingly.” I want the world to know what a treasure walks in their midst. I 8 OCTOBER 2018 | Idaho Family Magazine

want them to adore her and give her all the room she needs to grow. I want them to understand how hard I worked the last six years to raise her. I want to collect my shout of joy when the doctor lifted her into my waiting arms, and surround her with it like a song. I want the world to learn the harmony. I want them to sing it with me.

Her teeth are falling out because she does not need them anymore. They are too small. Insufficient for the task at hand. Her body lengthens, stretches towards the light like the sunflowers in my backyard, those impressive ladies who bow their crowned heads each night and raise them each morning, queens awakened by summer, just like my Augustborn daughter. My little queen, regal and filial, blood of my blood, heart of my heart, is blooming like a 6-year-old ought to bloom; her curls fall across her shoulder as she writes love letters to me, her cheeks flush with pleasure when she runs after a soccer ball, her thin legs bruised with adventure and bravery.

Baby teeth fall out because the roots die. The roots which held the teeth in place disintegrate and so what choice do the teeth have but to break ties and be ransomed for pocket change? But these facts do not make the loss any easier. I am disturbed at their barbaric end, wrenched from the tiny mouths where they taught a child to chew, swallow, and talk. Does no one respect the price paid for their entrance, the work they have done ever since?

I nursed those teeth into existence. I held my baby to my chest and nursed her aching jaw, the milk between us a silent exchange of comfort and apology. “The world hurts,” I whispered to my baby. You didn’t know yet. You had no idea. I’m so sorry to tell you, but the world is not always good. Even our own bodies hurt us. I kissed her hand and sang my prayers, startled at how badly I wanted to absorb the pain for her.

Childhood is a field of wildflowers you only pretend to own.

It is a dreamland, an incohesive collection of agony and bliss, tremendous moments of goodness and misery positioned like mountains among the endless stretches of the mundane, days we will never return to, will mostly forget. And if childhood is a dream, mothers guard the slumber. When suffering comes, we do not stand idly by. We kneel. For when we cannot fight, we learn to pray. For the crying baby when new teeth break through. And for ourselves when the roots are gone.

The teeth are mine. But they’re useless, relics of a time that exists only in my memory. No one can account for the hours I spend with my small children. Even them. I alone hold these days, turning them over in my hands like pearls, tiny and smoothed over with time. These years are mine, a gift of www.idahofamilymagazine.com

pure strength and grit, a dream I am slowly waking from as they get older. I am not done yet; I ache for the depth of our oneness when I held them so close, so often. But they have bigger jobs to do now. Their worlds expand with each breath they take, and what can I want for them except a life teeming with the most sincere joy? And how can I expect joy without suffering? Theirs, and mine.

The teeth are falling out, but new teeth are growing in their place. God teaches us to see the emptiness not as absence, but as an open way, necessary for new life. Today, oldest daughter, I try to remember the same. Pain does not just mean an ending — it also signals beginning. The blood and the twinge are an introduction to a fresh start. I won’t begrudge your grownup incisors or 6-year molars. I’ll trade you for a dollar and kiss your curly ponytail, watching wistfully as you skip away.

Jessie Horney is a freelance writer and poet.

Find her at www.horneymomtellsall.com.

Jessie Horney

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Idaho Family Magazine | OCTOBER 2018 9

DECISION-MAKING

You are captain of your own ship

By Mindy Scott

T

he captain of a ship has a very special role. He (or she) is responsible for the navigation of the ship and decides the direction the people on the ship will be going. He decides when and where to stop and has the responsibility to keep the cargo safe, as well as maintain an orderly ship.

Realizing that we are much like a captain who is running a ship when it comes to making decisions in our personal life is a prime example of self-care. We are essentially responsible for our own happiness. Are you Mindy Scott feeling unhappy in a particular area of life?

Great news. YOU can change it.

As adults we make the final call in life’s decisions. Like many, I once found this task to be daunting; however, when it finally clicked with me, I was elated. A few simple searches on Google will lead to many resources for decision-making. We hold so much power to steer our life in the direction we want to go that it is phenomenal, yet many haven’t tapped into it.

Recently, I spoke over the phone with a dear friend of mine from back East. I learned that she is pondering a lifechanging decision and needed a listening ear. I was happy to oblige. In the not-so-distant past, when someone would approach me about making a decision, I would naturally go into the “telling” phase and steered them in the decision I perceived as correct. However, the new me is quite the opposite. While I do believe those times still may exist for steering another into the right decision, they are far and few between.

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10 OCTOBER 2018 | Idaho Family Magazine

I’m not interested in making life-altering decisions in the lives of others. Oh no, I am not! Instead, I hold tightly to the philosophy that people are extremely intelligent beings who are capable and better off when they make their own decisions after reviewing the facts.

There are many benefits to making your own decisions, including confidence, responsibility, and life lessons. I don’t want to take that from anyone. In sharing this with you, my hope is that you find the courage to be honest with yourself, to get clear on what you want and what you don’t want in your life — and then jump! You can muster up the courage to go after it. This, my friends, is the true meaning of genius.

So after listening to my friend for several minutes, I asked her a set of questions, which included: Why do you want to move? What does the new place have to offer that your current location does not? What result do you hope to gain from this? I could tell she had thought about it for a while as she rattled off her reasoning. And lastly, we spoke about her biggest fears with going through with this decision.

Our imagination can at times run wild with “What if ?”, but when this happens I like to ask people to flip it. What if x, y, and z work out better than you had hoped? Their first response is usually total confusion, as not many operate within this framework; but I’m telling you it does work and I’ve used it many times.

Before we hung up, she requested I share my experience with my own big decision in relocating my family. After all, this month I’m celebrating five years living in the Treasure Valley, and I have no regrets. It has worked out better than I imagined. I do admit that leaving everything that was familiar to me was terrifying. I remember the beginning of my journey and having the thoughts of turning around, as it seemed less scary to go back rather than head into the “unknown.” But I didn’t turn back. I faced fear and kept driving the 2,000 miles west. Not only am I living the life I want, but because I faced that one fear, I can now help my friend. And that is the best reward of all.

Mindy Scott is a life coach and mother of seven. She encourages mothers to make themselves a priority in the areas of physical, mental and emotional health. She teaches women why this investment in self is the key to happiness, while guiding them on how to achieve it. She may be reached through her website at www.helloorder4mom.com, or visit her YouTube channel under “Mindy Scott.” www.idahofamilymagazine.com

CLUTTER-FREE living

Finishing touches for an ordered home

By Mary Ann Wilcox

O

nce we have found a home for everything, it is time to tackle drawers, cupboards and closets.

This is where you save lots of space and can find things at a glance. Here are some space-saving hints that allow you to find things easily.

Cupboards

• Use turntables in deep corners and high shelves. This allows you to reach needed items without moving anything.

Corner cupboards will hold a 12-inch at the back and two 10-inch in the front, or one 15-inch turntable.

• Use the doors of your cupboards for hanging things like measuring cups and spoons, paper towel holders or baskets for cleaning supplies.

• Use Sterilite plastic drawers for organizing tea bags, condiments, sugar packets, drink mixes, etc.

• Use plate stackers to separate dishes so you don’t have to lift sets of plates to reach the size needed.

Closets

• Use the top shelf of the closet to store items that are seldom used. Banker boxes are inexpensive and fit nicely on any closet shelf. They are 12” x 14” so they work well for hanging files in letter and legal size and can be labeled to identify contents.

• Closet doors that swing open can be used to hang shoe caddies, scarf racks or jewelry organizers.

• Plastic drawer carts can be purchased in a variety of sizes, if you need additional dresser space or if you like to fold rather than hang most of your clothes. Double rods are a necessity for maximizing hanging space.

• If you have a small closet, you might want to invest in multiple skirt and pant hangers. These hangers hold five or six items vertically.

• Plastic shoe boxes are great for storing shoes on the top shelf of the closet. They are also useful for storing jewelry, scarves and dickies. I like to put my accessories in Ziploc bags. The bags keep jewelry set together and scarves dustfree. Ziploc bags also work great for organizing nylons.

• Tie racks, either wall mounted or attached to a hanger, are great for belts, purses, necklaces and ties.

Drawers

The best way to conserve space in drawers is to use drawer dividers. Separating items in a drawer typically doubles your drawer space. Drawers can be divided with shoe boxes, Rubber Maid trays or commercial drawer dividers; all of these will work well. They range in price from free to quite expensive.

There is another option that has some real advantages — making your own custom dividers. If you would like a video www.idahofamilymagazine.com

tutorial, check out “custom drawer dividers” on our website.

The dividers are called “drawer sides” and can be purchased at most box home improvement stores. They are called “drawer sides” because they are used to construct drawers.

They come in standard drawer depths so you only have to cut the lengths you need.

These dividers are easy to install and are semi-permanent.

Because they are put in with hot glue, they can be taken out by simply twisting them. The glue comes off the side of the drawer by running a table knife down the side. You can easily re-configure a drawer as needs change by using this method.

Because they fit standardized drawers, they can be reused in other rooms or in other homes if you move.

Once you have your home micro-organized, you can easily keep things in order as you do your daily chores. Think about these simple tasks and others that will help you save hours of cleaning: • When you put laundry away — straighten a bedroom drawer.

• When you unload the dishwasher — straighten a kitchen drawer.

• During meal planning or when you put groceries away — clean the refrigerator.

• If and when you change seasonal clothes — reorganize a closet.

• When you buy something new and need to make room for it — reorganize.

• When you find a better tool or method — capitalize on it.

• When you get rid of something and find the space is more conveniently used for something else — use it.

• When you add a storage component (closet, cupboard, bookcase, furniture, drawer dividers) — take advantage of it.

If you purchase Clutter Free Living at www.MaryAnnsCupboards.com, you will see a visual representation of all the hints listed here, as well as many more tools to fit your specific needs. Home consultations and classes are also available by calling Mary Ann at 208-376-9773.

Idaho Family Magazine | OCTOBER 2018 11

CALENDAR 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.

Fall Flights at Center for Birds of Prey Experience the beauty of raptors in flight at the Peregrine Fund’s World Center for Birds of Prey 2018 Fall Flights program. Guests may witness the aerial prowess of a wide array of raptors every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through November 4. Each aerial presentation starts promptly at 3 p.m. and lasts 30-45 minutes. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $5 for youth 4-16, and free to members and children 3 and younger.

Seating is limited and shows frequently sell out.

Staff recommends coming by 2 p.m. The center is located at 5668 W. Flying Hawk Ln. outside of Boise. For more information, go to peregrinefund. org/fall-flights.

Nampa Public Library programs Nampa Public Library will offer a number of family- and kid-friendly programs throughout October as follows: • Humpback Whale, new storytime, 4 p.m., first Monday of each month • Reading Tails, read to a service dog, 3:30 p.m., second Tuesday of each month • Art Endeavor (for the whole family), 4 to 6:30 p.m., first Tuesday of each month • Teen Gaming Night, 4:30 p.m., first Thursday of each month • Baby/Toddler Storytime, 10:15 a.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays, October 4-30 • Preschool Storytime, 10:15 a.m., Wednesdays and Fridays, October 5-31 • Tween Robot Club, 4 p.m., Wednesday, October 10 • Tween Program, 4 p.m., Thursday, October 11 • Groovin’ & Movin’, 10:15 a.m., Monday, October 15 • Pre-Tween Program, 4 p.m., Monday, October 15 • The Club, 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, October 17 • Teen Program, 4:30 p.m., Thursday, October 18 • Bilingual Storytime, 10:15 a.m., Monday, October 22 • Sensory Storytime, 4:15 p.m., Monday, October 22

• The Lego Club, 4 p.m., Wednesday, October 24 Check out all the events at nampalibrary.org.

Canyon County Fall Home Show There will be free parking and free admission to the Canyon County Fall Home Show at the Ford Idaho Center in Nampa on the following dates: 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, October 5; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, October 6; and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, October 7. Go to fordidahocenter.com.

Idaho Botanical Garden Fall Harvest Festival This family-friendly event celebrates the changing season with live music, beer and wine garden, food vendors, the Scarecrow Stroll, and kids’ activities.

Guests may shop in the artist market, which features a variety of art from local artisans. This year’s festival is set for noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, October 6, and Sunday, October 7. For more information, to go https://idahobotanicalgarden.org/event/fallharvest-festival/.

Old Time Farm Days Experience Old Time Farm Days from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, October 7, at the Schick-Ostolasa Farmstead at 5006 W. Farm Court in the Hidden Springs subdivision in Boise. Get a glimpse of what Idaho life was like in the 1860s, including old-style crafts and Smarty Pants actors performing as characters from the Farmstead’s history. Children may pan for gold and play games that were played by children in days gone by. There will also be a silent auction and a dessert auction, live music, and food provided by the Basque Market and the Dry Creek Mercantile. Admission is $5 per person or $20 per family, and children under 3 are free. For more information, go to www.DryCreekHistory.org.

Flavorful Fairytales: “Room on the Broom” Start Halloween festivities early with Flavorful Fairytales at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, October 11, at Jack’s Urban Meeting Place in downtown Boise.

The program will feature the reading of a short book titled, “Room on the Broom.” Then, young participants will work on creating a kitty kat mask, a flying witch, and a fun coloring page. The program will be topped off with Rice Krispie treat pumpkins.

Registration ends Tuesday, October 9. Go to register.jumpboise.org.

Treasure Valley Dog Show The Treasure Valley Dog Show is set for 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. October 11-14 at Expo Idaho. The public is welcome to come view the show, and there is no admission fee. For more information, go to www. infodog.com.

12 OCTOBER 2018 | Idaho Family Magazine

Ada Library Activities Ada County Library branches feature a number of family- and youth-friendly programs. Following is a brief list of events for October.

Lake Hazel Branch Library, www.adalib.org/ lakehazel, 208-297-6700 • October 12, 6:30 p.m., Family Movie Night, all ages • October 23, 4:30 p.m., puppet show, all ages Star Branch Library, www.adalib.org/star, 208-286-9755 • October 12, 2 p.m., Meet the Masters Homeschool Art Program, registration required • October 30, 4:30 p.m., puppet show, all ages Victory Branch Library, www.adalib.org/ victory, 208-362-0181 • October 26, 4:30 p.m., puppet show, all ages

Idaho Horror Film Festival There will be three days of horror films shown across more than 10 venues in the valley during the Idaho Horror Film Festival October 1214. For more information, go to https://www. idahohorrorfilmfestival.org.

Zoo Boise Spooktacular Zoo Boise’s Spooktacular will take place during the evenings of October 12-14 and October 19-21.

Spooktacular is a merry-not-scary fun time for the whole family and an opportunity to visit the zoo at night. There will be Halloween displays, activities, special entertainment, and animal encounters all designed for families. Hours are 6 to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, go to zooboise.org.

“Sarah, Plain and Tall” Treasure Valley Children’s Theater will present a production of “Sarah, Plain and Tall” in the large conference room of the Cherry Lane branch of the Meridian Library District at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 13. The beloved classic is a tale of home and the power of family. The production will feature music, storytelling, and action unfolding against a prairie backdrop. Go to mld.org.

Dig into Geology!

Explore Idaho’s fossils and geologic history with activity stations, a lecture, and more from noon to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, October 13, at the Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology, 2455 Old Penitentiary Rd. in Boise. The free program is co-presented by IMMG and the Orma J. Smith Museum of Natural History. Visit www. idahomuseum.org for details or call Eliza at 208368-9876.

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

of Events Disney’s “The Lion King” Disney’s “The Lion King” will be performed at the Morrison Center October 17-November 4, with evening and matinee performances on certain days.

For tickets or more information, go to http://www. morrisoncenter.com/events/detail/lionking.

Funtober Fest Come have some harvest fun at the Nampa Rec Center from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, October 20, at Funtober Fest. This outdoor, carnival-style event will include face painting, dancing, storytelling, a costume contest, games and more. There will be something for everyone, and everyone is invited. For more information, go to nampaparksandrecreation. org.

WaterShed Weekend Fall Festival Program Join the Boise WaterShed every third Saturday of the month for nature and art activities the whole family can enjoy. Activities take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is free, and no preregistration is required. The program on October 20 is Fall Festival. Come celebrate beautiful fall

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Month of October

Please send family-related calendar items to editorgaye@gmail.com

colors, create fall-themed arts and crafts, enjoy pumpkin painting, explore the exhibit hall, take a harvest photo, and meet some live reptiles with “Reptile Adventures.” Then, take a hay ride tour on the outskirts of the water renewal facility. (Tours are set for 10:15, 11, 11:45 and 12:30; tours are limited to 25 people, weatherpermitting.) For more information, go to www.

BoiseEnvironmentalEducation.org.

Boo Bash: Family Yoga Costume Party Grab the whole family, get dressed up in “spooktacular” costumes, and enjoy some playful yoga at Jack’s Urban Meeting Place in downtown Boise at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 20. All ages are welcome with a parent. To register, go to register.jumpboise.org.

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. Meetings are set for 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Monday, October 22, in the Idaho Room of

Caldwell Public Library, 1010 Dearborn St., and 10 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, November 6, at the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, 823 Park Centre Way, Room 173, Boise. For more information, contact Monique Layton, recruitment coordinator, at 208-249-0180 or mlayton4@ewu. edu, or visit www.fosteringidaho.org.

Trunk or Treat and Dance to the Beat Downtown Meridian becomes a festival of costumes as more than 100 businesses create “mini-other worlds” and hand out treats to kids from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, October 25. DJ Gomez spins the tunes, getting people of all ages moving their feet to the beat. Ballet Folklorico performs Day of the Dance in full regalia, just before a public costume parade. Participation is free, but cash and food donations are encouraged and go to the Meridian Food Bank.

Continued on page 14

Idaho Family Magazine | OCTOBER 2018 13

CALENDAR of Events

cont.

“Oliver” at Nampa Civic Center

Teen Halloween Party

Music Theatre of Idaho will present the renowned musical “Oliver” at the Nampa Civic Center, with evening and matinee performances October 25-27. This family-friendly production is about an English orphan’s adventures. Tickets are available online at mtionline.org or by calling 208-468-2385. For more information, go to nampaciviccenter.com.

Teens, come dressed for the costume contest at the Teen Halloween Party from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Friday, October 26, in the Sagebrush Room at the Library! at Cole and Ustick. Snacks and drinks will be provided. Go to boisepubliclibrary.org for more information.

Equus and Overture

Kids, come use Halloween candy as markers (and treats) and play Bingo at the Eagle Public Library from 2 to 3 p.m. Friday, October 26.

Equus and Overture is a one-of-a-kind event that pairs live orchestral music performed by members of the Boise Philharmonic with various equestrian performances. The performances span a wide variety of equine disciplines and feature some of the most talented horsemen and horsewomen in our region. The evening also includes dinner and complimentary wine. The program is set for 6 p.m.

Friday, October 26, at Ford Idaho Center’s horse park in Nampa. For tickets, go to http://www. fordidahocenter.com/events/equus-and-overture.

Frightened Felons (All Ages Night) The Old Idaho Penitentiary will host its 10th Annual Frightened Felons event from 7 to 11 p.m. (last admission, 9:30 p.m.) on Friday, October 26.

Visitors may tour the site at night and — if they dare — may enter the only haunted cell house in Boise. There will be special performances of the Zombie “Thriller” Dance, costume contests with cash prizes, actors portraying inmates of the past, an undertaker and historic hearse, music, presentations, prizes, a scavenger hunt, food trucks, coffee and hot cocoa. Tickets are on sale at BrownPaperTickets.com.

Halloween Candy B-I-N-G-O

The Villalobos Brothers Caldwell Fine Arts will present a performance

by The Villalobos Brothers, a contemporary Mexican ensemble, at 7 p.m. Friday, October 26, in Jewett Auditorium in Caldwell. The musicians will headline an afternoon of family activities celebrating Dia de los Muertos. Activities begin at 4 p.m. and will include face painting, kids’ crafts, a Mexican dinner, and displays. For tickets and other information, go to caldwellfinearts.org.

Boo at the Zoo Join Zoo Boise for one of the best Halloween events in town on Saturday, October 27, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be costumed characters passing out candy, costume contests for all ages, games, photo ops, face painting, special Halloween-themed animal enrichments, and much more. Proceeds from all activities are used for improvements at the zoo. For more information, go to zooboise.org.

YMCA Halloween Run

The Treasure Valley YMCA will host its annual Halloween Run for anyone 5 years of age and older on Saturday, October 27.

There will be a Monster Mile starting at 5:30 p.m.

Nampa Rec Center’s and a 5K run starting at 6 p.m. It all takes place along the Boise Greenbelt as the sun sets. Both courses start and finish in Ann Morrison Park and will be highlighted by glowsticks, lights, Come have some harvest fun at the Nampa Rec Center. and costumes. For more This outdoor, carnival-style event will include face-painting, information, go to http:// crafts, dancing, storytelling, a costume contest, games and more! www.ymcatvidaho.org/runs/ halloween-run/.

fun tober

oc tober 20 1-4pm member $5 • non-member $6

sponsored by

Creepy Critter Encounters Learn about creatures of the Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge on a spooky hike from 3 to 6 p.m.

Saturday, October 27. See live animals, hear stories of creepy critters, and create Halloweeen crafts.

Come in costume for a special treat. The Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center is located at 13751 Upper Embankment Road in Nampa.

The program is free and will take place come rain or shine. For more information, call 208-467-9278 or visit http://www.fws.gov/refuge/deer_flat/.

DeerFlat@fws.gov.

Idaho Gourd Society’s 19th Annual Festival This year’s theme is “Wings, Flowers and Leaves.”

Days and times of the festival are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, October 27, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, October 28. It all happens at the Clubhouse Event Center at 7311 W. Potomac Drive in Boise. There will be gourds on display and for purchase. For more information, go to http:// www.idahogourdsociety.org/2018-festival.

Pickin’ Treasure Valley Vintage Show & Artisan Market Nampa’s Ford Idaho Center will once again host the Pickin’ Treasure Valley event on the following dates: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, October 27; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, October 28. Admission is $7; parking is free.

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 is set for October 28. To purchase tickets, go to bctheater.org or call the BCT Box Office at 208-331-9224.

Idaho IceWorld Spooktacular Idaho IceWorld will hold its annual Spooktacular Celebration October 31. Also, Christmas “Ice Show” tickets go on sale at the Information Desk at IceWorld beginning at 9 a.m. on November 1. (The popular holiday show, set for December, sells out quickly.) For more information, visit idahoiceworld.com or call 208-608-7716.

Halloween Storytime & Parade Kids, wear your costumes and come to the Silverstone branch of the Meridian Library District at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 31, for Halloween-themed stories, songs, and a parade.

Bring a bucket to trick-or-treat through the library.

Go to mld.org.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 208-468-5858 OR VISIT US ONLINE AT NAMPARECCENTER.ORG

14 OCTOBER 2018 | Idaho Family Magazine

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Children’s Museum of Idaho The Children’s Museum of Idaho is preparing to open on November 1. The museum will be located at 790 S. Progress Ave. in Meridian and will be a place where children ages 2-8 may learn through play and exploration in environments designed just for them.

Exhibits will include a Dinosaur Pit, Sailing Ship, Veterninary Clinic, and more. Go to www.cmidaho. org for membership or other information.

Craft & Chocolate Affaire The Nampa Civic Center will host its annual Craft & Chocolate Affaire from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, November 2, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, November 3. Along with great chocolate, there will be a variety of crafts and specialty items for all ages. The event is free.

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker This holiday classic will be presented at 7 p.m.

Monday, November 5, at the Nampa Civic Center.

For tickets or more information, go to www. nampaciviccenter.com or www.nutcracker.com.

“Where Children Sleep” art exhibit Caldwell Fine Arts will present “Where Children Sleep,” an art exhibit. An opening reception is set for 7 p.m. Thursday, November 8, at the College of Idaho’s Cruzen-Murray Library. Guest speaker will be Kenton Lee of The Shoe That Grows. Public viewing of the artworks will be held November 9-21. Information about the exhibit, from the CFA website at caldwellfinearts.org reads in part: “In this revealing series of photographs, James Mollison invites us to look through a window into the homes of children in many countries and circumstances. The simple portraits and biographies, along with pictures of children’s sleeping spaces, convey a message of universal childhood full of hope, insecurity, vulnerability, pain, and comfort.” Visit the CFA website for more information.

RECIPES by Bethany

Smoothies for a fall breakfast

By Bethany Camp

T

his recipe is the perfect breakfast for a brisk fall morning. I don’t know about you guys, but when the leaves start to change color and the smell of autumn is in the air, I go nuts over pumpkin. One morning I decided to throw some in my smoothie, and it was divine.

Smooth, creamy, and everything that fall would taste like if it were food. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do.

INGREDIENTS Smoothie base: 2 frozen bananas ½ cup pumpkin (more or less depending how strong you want it) 1 tbsp almond butter 1 tbsp maca powder 1 tsp cinnamon ¼ tsp allspice ¼ tsp nutmeg 1-2 dates Dash of nut milk (I use unsweetened almond milk) FINISHES Mixed nuts Chia seeds Hemp seeds Coconut flakes Dates Cinnamon

DIRECTIONS 1. Blend bananas and a dash of nut milk in a highspeed blender until thick and creamy. The trick here is not to add too much milk or else there will be too much liquid (unless you are going for a drinkable smoothie, then that’s totally fine).

Be patient with this, you will have to stop your blender and mix it around a few times, but the end product is an amazing ice cream-like texture.

2. Add the remaining ingredients and blend until smooth.

3. Poor into a bowl and top with your toppings.

Have fun with it. Make it into an art project. It makes it way more fun to eat when it’s pretty.

Treasure Valley’s Bethany Camp calls herself a “plant-based lifestyle enthusiast.” She strives to create unique and authentic plant-based recipes that are nourishing, sustainable, and locally sourced. She may be reached at bethanycamp93@ yahoo.com, through her Instagram account @na_ma_ste_ vegan, or via her website at www.namaste-vegan.net.

OCTOBER 17 – NOVEMBER 4 MORRISON CENTER MorrisonCenter.com | 866-870 -2717 Groups www.idahofamilymagazine.com BOISE / C M Y K 7.625”W X 3.25”H

(10+):

208-426-4111

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NOW ON SALE!

FamilyPAGE Magazine | OCTOBER 2018 15 92332 /Idaho ONE-THIRD / IDAHO FAMILY MAGAZINE RUN DATE: SUNDAY, JULY 1

Special Needs Guide 2 SPECIFIC CHALLENGES Autism Spectrum Disorders Autism Society Treasure Valley Chapter 336-5676 asatvc.org

Idaho State Talking Book Library 334-2150 libraries.idaho.gov/landing/talkingbook-service

Idaho Aspergers Support Groups parentingaspergerscommunity.com

National Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments (800) 562-6265 napvi.org

Idaho Autism idahoautism.com

Deafness/Hearing Impairment

Idaho Autism Consultation (802) 233-6582 https://www.autismspeaks.org/resource/ idaho-autism-consultation National Autism Association (877) 622-2884 nationalautismassociation.org

Blindness/Visual Impairment Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ICBVI) 334-3220 or (800) 542-8688 icbvi.state.id.us

Children/.../IdahoSoundBeginnings/ tabid/.../Default.aspx Idaho Speech, Language, Hearing Association, Inc. idahosha.org

Diabetes American Diabetes Association diabetes.org

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) asha.org

HODIA – Idaho Diabetes Youth Programs 891-1023, ext. 0 hodia.org

Idaho Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing 473-2122 cdhh.idaho.gov

St. Luke’s Humphreys Diabetes Center Boise, 331-1155 Meridian, 884-4220 Nampa, 463-7364 stlukesonline.org

Idaho Hands & Voices 869-9363 idhandsandvoices.org Idaho Sound Beginnings 334-0829 healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/

Down Syndrome National Down Syndrome Society (800) 221-4602 ndss.org

Kaleidoscope Pediatric Therapy is dedicated to providing a tailored approach to therapy for every child. We are a family focused, multi-disciplinary, evidence based practice specializing in comprehensive physical, occupational and speech therapy.

Pediatric Orthopedic Rehab Aquatic Therapy Social Groups

PHYSICAL

Baby Bootcamp Two sensory-motor gyms

OCCUPATIONAL

SPEECH

CURRENT OPENINGS Visit KPTidaho.com to learn more.

16 OCTOBER 2018 | Idaho Family Magazine

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Special Needs Guide 2018 Treasure Valley Down Syndrome Association (TVDSA) 954-7448 idahodownsyndrome.org

Dyslexia

Spina Bifida Spina Bifida Association of America (SBA) (202) 944-3285 spinabifidaassociation.org

Coopalo Learning Center 484-3816 CoopaloLearningCenter.com

St. Luke’s Children’s Specialty Center 381-7000 stlukesonline.org

Epilepsy

SURVIVING MULTIPLE NEEDS

Epilepsy Foundation of America (800) 332-1000 epilepsyfoundation.org

Adaptive Services

Epilepsy Foundation of Idaho 344-4340 epilepsyidaho.org

Mental Health Idaho Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health 433-8845 idahofederation.org Children’s Mental Health, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare 334-0808 healthandwelfare.idaho.gov National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline, (800) 950-NAMI or Boise Chapter, 376-4304 nami.org or namiboise.org

Multiple Sclerosis Utah-Southern Idaho Chapter, National Multiple Sclerosis Society 388-4253 nationalmssociety.org

Community Transportation Association of Idaho 344-2354 ctai.org

Advocacy & Legal Services The Arc, Inc. 343-5583 thearcinc.org Brain Injury Alliance of Idaho (BIAID) 367-2747, Helpline: (800) 444-6443 biaid.org Disability Rights Idaho 336-5353 disabilityrightsidaho.org Idaho Parents Unlimited, Inc. (IPUL) 342-5884 or (800) 242-IPUL (4785) ipulidaho.org Idaho’s Infant Toddler Program 334-0900 or 2-1-1 (Idaho CareLine) infanttoddler.idaho.gov/

EDUCATION

Muscular Dystrophy Association of Idaho 327-0107 mda.org/office/idaho

Advanced Therapy Care 898-0988 advancedtherapycare.com

Idaho Elks Rehabilitation Hospital idahoelksrehab.org

Chatter Box Speech & Language Center Boise and Nampa boisechatterbox.com 898-1368 or 466-1077

Serious Illness Make-A-Wish Foundation of Idaho 345-WISH (9474) idaho.wish.org

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Children’s Therapy & Learning Center 957-6301 childrenstlc.com

Idaho School for the Deaf and the Blind (ISDB) (208) 934-4457 (Gooding, ID) iesdb.org (Idaho Educational Services for the Deaf and the Blind) Idaho State Department of Education 332-6800 sde.idaho.gov LearningRX Center-Boise West 258-2077 learningrx.com/boise-west

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY SERVICES

Treasure Valley Transit 463-9111 treasurevalleytransit.com

Muscular Dystrophy

Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) (800) 572-1717 mda.org

Brain Balance Achievement Centers 377-3559 BrainBalanceCenters.com

Center on Disabilities and Human Development (CDHD) 885-6000 (University of Idaho in Moscow) idahocdhd.org Gem State Developmental Center 888-5566 gsdcdda.com Idaho Council on Developmental Disabilities 334-2178 icdd.idaho.gov Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Boise: Children’s Disability Services, 334-6900 Developmental Disabilities/Infant Toddler, 334-0900 Mental Health Services, 334-0808 Caldwell/Nampa: Developmental Disabilities Program/ Infant Toddler, 465-8460 Mental Health Services/Adult & Children, 459-0092 healthandwelfare.idaho.gov Idaho Help www.idahocdhd.org/idhelp/privacy.aspx Idaho Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation, Inc. 338-5466 idaholions.org Idaho Project for Children and Youth with Deaf-Blindness 364-4012 www.afb.org (American Foundation for the Blind)

Continued on page 18

Idaho Family Magazine | OCTOBER 2018 17

Special Needs Guide 2 2-1-1 Idaho CareLine (800) 926-2588 idahocareline.org

Idaho Cheer & Dance, Wings Center 376-3641, ext. 210 wingscenter.com

Ambitions of Idaho 208-466-7443 ambitionsofidaho.org

Pediatric Rehabilitation at St. Luke’s Children 489-5880 stlukesonline.org

Special Olympics Idaho 323-0482 idso.org

Idaho Association for Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health (or Aim EarlyIdaho) aimearlyidaho.org

Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center Rehabilitation Services (STARS) 367-STAR (7827) starspt.org

RECREATION & FITNESS Adventure Island Playground Meridian’s Settlers Park adventureislandplayground.org

ADAPTIVE RECREATION SERVICES AdVenture Program, Boise Parks & Recreation 608-7680 parks.cityofboise.org

Recreation Unlimited (RU) Bogus Basin’s Adaptive Snow Sport School P.O. Box 447 Boise, ID 83701 208-391-3594 contact@recreationunlimited.org

Idaho Parents Unlimited 342-5884 ipulidaho.org

Treasure Valley YMCA Caldwell Family YMCA, 454-9622 Downtown Family YMCA, 344-5501 Homecourt Y, 855-5711 West Family YMCA, 377-9622 ymcatvidaho.org

Easter Seals 322.9675 easterseals.com UnBefuddled LLC 466-3900 unbefuddled.com

THERAPY & TREATMENT SERVICES Brain Balance Achievement Centers 377-3559 BrainBalanceCenters.com/locations/eagle

SUPPORT Access Living (855) 922-2207 (main toll-free number to each Idaho clinic) accesslivingllc.com

Chatterbox Pediatric Therapy Center – Boise / Nampa 898-1368 or 466-1077 boisechatterbox.com Children’s Therapy Place Locations in Boise, Nampa, Emmett 323-8888 childrenstherapyplace.com

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WEDNESDAY’S CHILD Community Connections, Inc. Boise, 377-9814 Nampa, 475-4236 Community Partnerships of Idaho, Inc. 376-4999 (Main Office) mycpid.com Imagine Pediatric Therapy World 208-467-1069 https://www.imaginepediatric.com Kaleidoscope Pediatric Therapy 375-4200 kaleidoscopepediatrictherapy.com Mini Joys, Inc. 830-3227 minijoys.org Ride for Joy Therapeutic Riding Program 365-0671 (Emmett) rideforjoy.org VSA Arts of Idaho (Very Special Arts) 342-5884 ipulidaho.org Warm Springs Counseling Center (WSCC) East Copper Point Drive – 855-0407 South Millennium Way – 343-7797 childrenshomesociety.com

HEALTH CARE Advanced Therapy Care 898-0988 advancedtherapycare.com Living Independently Forever, Inc. 888-0076 lifeincidaho.com Safe Kids Treasure Valley & Safe Kids Worldwide https://www.safekids.org/coalition/safekids-treasure-valley Strickland Ear Clinic 375-4327 stricklandear.com Tomorrow’s Hope Boise, 319-0760 Meridian, 888-4923 tomorrowshopeinc.org St. Luke’s-Elks Rehab 336-0312 stlukesonline.org

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

Four siblings in search of a home The following information is provided by Wednesday’s Child, an organization that helps Idaho foster children find permanent homes.

A

re you hoping to build your family all at once through adoption? If so, these four special siblings may be just who you’ve been searching for.

Kaden, the oldest of the bunch, is very much into sports. He likes football and basketball and wants a family who will encourage him to play team sports. He recently learned to snow ski and says that he can’t wait to tackle figuring out how to snow board.

He dreams of one day becoming a professional athlete. Kaden describes his ideal home as one where he can count on his adoptive parents to meet all of the needs of his younger brothers and sister so that he can just relax and concentrate on being a kid himself.

Next in line is Cayson, a very outgoing boy who loves outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, bike riding and going to the beach.

Cayson doesn’t mind that he has to wear glasses because he understands that he needs them to be the best he can be when it comes to other things he enjoys, like painting and building things with wood. Cayson loves lasagna and hopes to be a construction worker when he grows up.

Traysten is a rambunctious boy who also has a sweet and nurturing side. As a middle child, Tray can sometimes feel “a little lost in the crowd.” When Tray is feeling this way, he responds really well to extra one-on-one attention just to let him know how special he is.

Tray loves roller skating, riding bikes, building with Legos, and pretending to be a super hero, a Ninja Turtle or a Pokemon character with his friends.

Tray enjoys school and is looking forward to being a professional dirt bike rider when he gets older.

Beautiful Calimay is a very bright girl with an endearing, although currently

The siblings above are looking for parents who will allow them to stay together. The children include, from left: Kaden, age 11; Cayson, 9; Calimay, 7; and Traysten, 8. (Photo provided

by Wednesday’s Child) toothless, grin. She loves to be in the kitchen baking with her foster mom and her favorite food is ice cream.

Growing up with three older brothers, Calimay likes to do many of the same things they enjoy, such as bike riding, camping, swimming at the beach and playing with Legos. She loves animals, especially cows, horses and cats.

Cali is a strong reader and likes to read Disney stories. She dreams about going on a trip to Disneyland with her new family. Calimay would love to take dance or gymnastics classes once she gets settled into her new home, and she is super excited about the possibility of having an older sister. This outgoing and always inquisitive little girl wants to become a police officer one day.

The children’s permanency team is actively searching for a family who will keep these bonded siblings together.

Parents who are structured, patient, energetic and fun-loving and who have an in-depth understanding of the many ways in which childhood trauma can present itself would go far in helping these amazing siblings heal from their past and move forward into the healthy and happy future they all deserve.

For more information on the Idaho Wednesday’s Child Program, visit www. idahowednesdayschild.org, or contact Recruitment Coordinator Shawn White at swhite52@ewu.edu or 208-488-8989 if you have specific questions.

Idaho Family Magazine | OCTOBER 2018 19

MANIC mothering

Not easily scared...most of the time

By Beth Markley

I

love scary stories. Love, love, love them.

Like during a week last October. I was Until they get the better of me. working out of town. This client and I have a The only time I ever got in trouble for deal wherein she finds people to put me up in reading anything I wasn’t supposed to their homes and saves the expense of a hotel was in the 5th grade. It was a loaned copy of when I travel.

“The Amityville Horror” I kept hidden under One couple regularly hosts me, if their my pillow until I could finish it. The night I spare room isn’t occupied. They do this for did, I woke up my parents around 2 a.m. to a number of the organizations they support. tell them I couldn’t sleep.

That room has hosted playwrights, musicians, They were astonishingly unsympathetic. politicians, and actors, as well as boring And I still get creeped out by flies on the people like me. It’s a nice set-up with a private window. bath, and a guest can come and go, early or I’ve always thought I could write a late, without disturbing the homeowners.

Beth Markley satisfyingly scary story, except that if it was any I was set to stay with them again, but they good I’d probably lose my marbles a little. The process is the pulled out at the last minute because of some emergency. problem. I get this little nugget of an idea, and then I mull I found out later one of their houseguests, an opera singer, it over for a long time before any writing happens. I’ll think didn’t show up for a rehearsal one morning. She’d passed about it while driving, or washing the dishes … taking a away the night before. shower … or waking up at 3 a.m. and it’s pitch black and I’m In that room. sure I’ve heard something …

So when my hosts felt the need to disclose the fact that I have a fairly decent imagination, you guys. I don’t trust some poor woman turned up dead in their spare room, I was it not to freak me out. I won’t stare too long down a dark able to blithely inform them that kind of thing doesn’t bother hallway. Is that the vague outline of a misshapen midget me at all. I mean, I’m sorry for the woman and her family, axe-murderer, or a coat on a chair? I can’t listen too intently and all, but a room’s a room, and I’ve got zero sense of the to silence without wondering if I’m hearing a faint scream metaphysical, so if her aura was somehow still around and for help. wanted some company or something, I’d probably not be Most of the time, I can cope with this imagination. I’m no much of a spirit buddy. longer the 5th grade girl who suddenly realizes how far away Which is how I found myself staying there one night, while her room is from everyone else’s in the house. Nope. I’m a my hosts were out of town. grown woman who doesn’t have time for ghosts and all that Mike asked if I was going to be freaked out — I mean, he baloney. said, someone DIED there — and I reminded him (maybe a Here’s the fortunate thing that kind of balances out my little forcefully), that I am NOT the type to get freaked out by crazy imagination: While I fully and totally believe in a spirit that sort of thing, thank you very much. world, and ghosts and spooky stuff, and I think there are Besides, it’s a comfortable, newer home on the edge of probably people who can see them, too — or sense them, or town, very clean, with lots of light from about a dozen whatever — I can’t. Not a bit. windows looking out This would be me in a séance: into the beautiful Me: Dear spirit, please give us a sign if you’re here. forested landscape of Spirit [tapping on my head]: Helloooo? Yooo hooo? [tap, central Idaho. Not tap, tap] Is this thing on? your typical, haunted Me: Just one, little sign, friendly spirit.

Victorian manse. No Spirit: HEY, HEEEEEY! [knocks over lamp, pushes ouija place for a haunting. board off the table].

Nope.

Me: [picks up stuff, looks around] Wow, that was weird …

And quiet. Oh, okay, spirit, just one, little sign … so quiet. Really.

Sometimes my active imagination slams up against my Freaking. Quiet. lack of sense of anything otherworldly, and I get to choose After the sun went between grown womanhood or 5th grade melodrama. It’s a down, I went from toss-up as to which side will prevail. window to window 20 OCTOBER 2018 | Idaho Family Magazine

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

drawing the blinds and I noticed that there was not a single neighbor within view. No light outside whatsoever. Not even a glow from the nearby town. Nothing to see. Nothing except dark shadows courtesy of the glow from a teensy sliver of moon just above the treetops. Shadows cast by lawn furniture, trees, and other … things I hadn’t thought to catalogue in the daylight, not realizing I’d wonder about their respective outlines later.

I wondered what the house might look like from out there, what kind of pattern the light coming from all these windows made from the vantage of someone standing (lurking) watching from the woods, as I closed the shades.

One by one. Were my eyes playing tricks or did I just now see something skitter by the bottom of the window? Just before the blind hit the sill? I’m sure there are critters out there. Of course there are. Foxes and skunks, maybe, but that looked white. A cat perhaps?

The day had been warm, and I must have left a door open earlier, because houseflies had made their way inside and now bumped off the light fixture in the dining room.

Tik, tik, tik. It was too early for sleep, but I was way too tired for work. I tried and failed to figure out the television remote, and so decided to read, propped up in bed.

I did pretty well with ignoring the sounds of the house settling around me, but the flies bounding off the fixture were annoying. The furnace kicked in and about gave me a heart attack.

She’d been here, the opera singer. She’d been laying here in this bed, where I was right now, not three weeks prior. Had she known her end was near? Was she afraid?

Did someone or something appear to her beforehand?

Something gauzy and translucent, that even now might be skittering outside, around the foundation, just below the windows, wondering where the light from the house had gone? Wanting to come in, to get away from the one who watched from the woods?

When I went someday, would I go in my sleep? My breath becoming shallower and shallower until it stopped altogether? Or would I wake with a start, realizing I wasn’t getting enough air, opening my eyes to see something gauzy, floating just above me, just out of focus? Would we, both of us, then be flitting around the house at night, looking for a crack in the blinds through which to enter, fleeing from the one who watched from the woods? From the shadows of trees? … … Anyway, I didn’t finish my book that night. It’s not that it wasn’t good, I just couldn’t get into it.

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’).

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Idaho Family Magazine | OCTOBER 2018 21

PARENTING’S hard times

Mama, I see you when it’s thankless

By Macaile Hutt

A

s a pediatric therapist, I feel so incredibly honored and thankful that I get to watch my sweet patients learn, grow, change, and become strong, brave, independent little people. I get a front row seat to so many special events and milestones in each and every one of my patients’ lives, and I have to pinch myself frequently to ensure I’m not dreaming and that this career is actually a reality. I always said that I embarked on this journey with the hopes to change the lives of even just a few kids, without ever realizing Macaile Hutt how much they would all end up changing mine.

While working in a field involving children, I have also learned first-hand the tribe it takes to raise and nurture these tiny people as they grow into the incredible adults they’ll all undoubtedly become. It takes a very patient army to help our kids navigate the world we are living in today. I am amazed daily by my patients, but I can’t help but find myself enamored and awestruck by the gentle footprints in the sand that their parents, grandparents, nannies, teachers, and other caregivers leave as a helpful reminder that they can always use those footprints to find their way back home if they ever find themselves lost.

When I meet a family for the first time, I always like to remind my parents that they are the experts on their child first and foremost. I tell them, “You know their favorite foods, what color bowl they want their cereal in on a Tuesday morning, which book you read at bedtime, and which teddy bear to bring on a long car drive. You know what makes them tick, what makes them happy, and the many things they’ve encountered that make them scared or sad.”

At the initial evaluation, I simply request that I may join their tribe. That we can work together as a team to help put the (sometimes confusing and frustrating) tiny little pieces together and hold strong as we see what the final puzzle has to say. I have had the honor of sitting alongside so many families as we celebrate their kiddos’ taking their first steps, saying their first words, eating something slimy for the first time, tolerating their carseat without getting sick, writing their first names all on their own, and so many other “little victories” that make my job so incredibly rewarding day in and day out.

But I’ve also had the privilege to sit alongside families in the not-so-great times. We’ve sifted through the aftermath of getting kicked out of preschool (again), biting Grandma (again), taking their fine motor writing practice to the walls 22 OCTOBER 2018 | Idaho Family Magazine

of the church nursery (in permanent marker), practicing scissor skills on a sister’s long, beautiful hair... This list goes on and on.

These moments, while challenging, are some of my favorites. These are the moments when the parents, once mere rocks on the sandy shore, are tossed into the waves of the ocean, encountering raging currents and enough pressure to ultimately reveal that they’ve always been diamonds in the rough. These are the moments they don’t write about in parenting books.

These are the experiences we don’t talk about with the pediatrician. They are the times you will feel like you’re failing over and over and over again and wonder how you woke up in this life you didn’t sign up for. They are the moments that feel like there’s no way you will make it to the other side, but then you do. You always make it out to the other side. What better lesson in perseverance and tenacity than to hold hands and face these storms together, with the audience of tiny eyes that are always watching. It’s not easy, but we do it. We don’t always talk about it, but I witness it.

So, I see you, mama. I see you papa, grandma, grandpa, nanny, teacher, and caregiver.

I see the tired eyes and unwashed hair. I see the shirt that’s inside out because life doesn’t always make time for spit up and popsicle stains. I see the daily grind, the chauffeuring, refereeing, and the many aspects of your job as a parent that often go completely thankless. I see the failures and victories, and the moments where you are so close to throwing in the towel but choose to give it your all instead. I see the 10 seconds of quiet bliss in the bathroom interrupted by tiny fingers under the doorframe. I see you. I see you.

Recently, my sweet friend, a new mama herself, asked me how she will know she isn’t screwing up her kids. Simply put, I told her she won’t know.

I told her that she will actually probably screw up way more than she ever planned. But I told her that the mistakes build character (and also help raise interesting and funny adults) and that I have found there is really only one fail-proof approach to parenting, and that is this: love them.

Love them in spite of the messy house and writing all over the wall. Love them when they clear their plates and love them still when they refuse to eat their vegetables. Love them for both when they don’t get picked for the team and when they win first place. Celebrate the days that (almost) go as planned and forgive yourself on the days you crawl in bed with tear-filled eyes and the grace in knowing you can try www.idahofamilymagazine.com

again tomorrow.

Love yourself enough in the process that it teaches your children that it’s okay to love themselves, too.

I have been blessed to work with so many wonderful families over the years, and each and every one of them is doing their best to fight the good fight and sometimes just make it through the day. But, at the root of it all, the happiest, most successful and joyful children I’ve ever encountered aren’t the ones with perfect parents. They are the ones who know, deep down to the heart of their core, that they are loved.

I see you, mama. Even on the days when your work feels invisible. ESPECIALLY on the days when your work feels invisible. You’ve been hired for one of the most difficult and most important jobs there is. And this is me, taking a small moment in the midst of the chaos, to say thank you. Thank you for showing up for your tribe, even when it would be so much easier to walk the path alone.

Macaile Hutt is an occupational therapist at Kaleidoscope Pediatric Therapy. 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 obtained continuing education in Handwriting Without Tears, pediatric kinesiotaping, Interactive Metronome, and Beckman Oral Motor programs. In her free time, she enjoys creative writing, backpacking, and traveling.

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Idaho Family Magazine | OCTOBER 2018 23

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