MetroFamily Magazine October 2011

October 2011

Pumpkin patches, festivals & camps:

168 events for fall fun!

Death, divorce & loss: helping kids cope How chores can help your child succeed in school metrofamilymagazine.com

October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Trick-or-treaters at Harn Homestead’s Haunt the Harn event. Find this event and over 60 more at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/fall-fun. Photo provided.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | October 2011

• Through the Pumpkin Patch/Fall Fun Giveaway, win one of 20 family fourpacks of tickets to a variety of fall fun activities. Deadline is October 7.

• Get your shop on! We’re giving away four two-packs of tickets to the Jr. League of OKC’s Mistletoe Market, scheduled from October 14-16. Deadline is October 7.

• Enter for a chance to win one of four adorable Animal Planet Halloween Costumes for your baby or family pet.

Deadline October 14, 2011.

• Our October Giveaway features many great family products valued at over $400.

Deadline is October 20.

• Follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/ metrofamily) and subscribe to Weekend Picks to learn of more great contests.

You could save big!

Find valuable coupons to these businesses at metrofamilymagazine.com/okc-familydiscounts • Clean My Grill • Club Z! Tutoring • Play Nation playground sets • Mabee-Gerrar Museum of Art • Jump!Zone • Gymboree classes • GattiTown PLUS, while there, learn more about the savings to attractions with Kids Pass!

Find the local resources your family needs!

Looking for the best venue for your child’s next party? Or do you need to find a good tutor for your struggling student? Find what you need in the metro’s best guides to family resources, MetroFamily’s online directories. www.metrofamilymagazine.com/directories

Fall Family Fun Issue October 2011

Festivals, pumpkins & trickor-treating! Oh my!

35 Calendar

More fall fun events, activities and classes

Your guide to fun this fall

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Dear MetroFamily Editor’s Note

32 Exploring Oklahoma

16 20

Just how important are chores for your children? You may be surprised.

Shawnee’s Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art and its treasures from around the world

24 Family Finances

Demystifying inflation

8

Family Shorts

Community news & information

28 Focus on Education

Don’t fear the science fair; tips for helping your child learn the most from this challenging and fun learning activity

22 Oklahoma Reads Great reads for all

46 Photo Gallery

26

Our readers show off their their kids and families in Halloween costumes

How grief affects children— and how you can help.

30 Real Moms of the Metro

Meet Jennifer Stringham: military wife, mother and student

14 Your Healthy Family

On your mark; get set; RUN! The journey from the couch to a 5K

On the cover: Brynn Pressley, Kindergartner at Dove Science Academy, is the daughter of Bryan and Kristina Pressley of Moore.

PHOTO BY Kathryne Taylor, Art Director, MetroFamily Magazine

October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Dear MetroFamily readers, Happy fall, y’all! With the break in the heat, we were blessed with a preview of fall this year. And yes, even though that change in temperature kicked my allergies into high gear, I was sporting a smile along with my runny nose. As long as the weather is mild, I’ll be wearing a smile.

October is all about fall fun, so dig into the many pumpkin patches, festivals and fall break ideas offered around Central Oklahoma and the state here; find the details on pages 26 and 43 and as always, you can reference the constantly-updated list online at metrofamilymagazine.com/fall-fun. And if you are on the go, download and use our iPhone app. It's very handy to access our calendar, the fall fun list, our latest blogs and article posts and much more.

On a more serious note, we address how grief can affect your children, and what you can do about it.

And doesn’t it seem like there are always more chores this time of year? We tell you why your child should be helping out, and how it ultimately helps them.

Enjoy October!

Cheers,

Info And Questions: 405-601-2081 To submit events to our calendar calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com Publisher Sarah L. Taylor sarah@metrofamilymagazine.com Editor Mari M. Farthing editor@metrofamilymagazine.com Art Director Kathryne Taylor kathryne@metrofamilymagazine.com Advertising Sales Athena Delce Dana Price Amy Lou Tuzicka ads@metrofamilymagazine.com Office and Distribution Manager Kathy Alberty kathy@metrofamilymagazine.com Assistant Editor Brooke Barnett brooke@metrofamilymagazine.com Calendar Editor Sara Riester calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com Special Projects Assistant Terri Fields Contributing Writers Brooke Barnett, Julie Dill, Shannon Fields, Donna S. Jones, Lara Krupika, Kerrie McLoughlin, Christa Melnyk-Hines, Karen Mitchell, Sue Lynn Sasser Circulation 35,000 – OKC, Edmond, Nichols Hills, Norman, Moore, Midwest City, Yukon Also available as a digital edition at MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

P.S. Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/mari to read my blog, “Keeping it Real,” about my personal adventures in the ups and downs of parenting.

Our family loves a good pumpkin patch. Fall makes me feel very nostalgic and included above are photos from last year, 2008 and 2007 (from top).

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Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Inprint Publishing, Inc. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

MetroFamily Magazine is published monthly by Inprint Publishing, Inc. 725 NW 11th, Suite 204 • Oklahoma City, OK 73103 Fax: 405-445-7509 E-mail: info@metrofamilymagazine.com ©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2011, All Rights Reserved.

Volume 14, Number 10

October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Contributing writers: Brooke Barnett, Mari Farthing

Stranger Danger: Smart Strategies to Help Keep Your Child Safe

by Christa Melnyk Hines

Your child may sometime need to seek help from a stranger.

Arm your child with a plan to help keep her safe.

1.

Define “stranger.” Remind your kids that even nice strangers are still people you don’t know. If someone won’t leave your child alone, he should yell “Stranger!” and run to tell a trusted adult.

2. Practice “what-if” scenarios. Choose an easy-to-find meeting spot, like a store’s cash registers, in case you become separated while shopping.

3. Are there safe strangers? Dangerous strangers come in all shapes, sizes, ages, genders and colors. Err on the side of caution. Instruct your child to only approach a uniformed employee with a name tag in a busy area.

4.

Share limited information. If your child needs help, his first name and your first and last name should suffice.

5. Take pictures. Snap your children’s pictures with your cell phone while out. If necessary, you can hand a current picture immediately to authorities.

6. Avoid name tags. Don’t put your child’s name in an obvious location on your child’s backpack or jacket.

Predators can use his name to strike up a conversation.

7.

Designate “in case of emergency” friends. Share the names of your family’s emergency contacts or safe people with your kids.

8. Tell them who they may NOT go with. Have an untrustworthy family member? Instruct your children to stay put until one of their “safe people” arrives.

9.

Have a secret family password. Tell your kids that you will never send someone to get them without them knowing first. In an emergency, the person you’ve put in charge will know the family password.

10. Keep DNA samples. Store and label hair samples, an old toothbrush and baby teeth to provide authorities in the event your child goes missing.

Question of the Month Your to-do list is empty! What will you do for fun with your family today?

Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/fs-giveaway to answer this question and enter your name in our monthly prize package drawing, valued at over $400.

Deadline to enter is Thursday, October 20.

Your comments may also be used in a future issue of MetroFamily Magazine or on our website. The full contents of the prize package are listed on the entry form.

What a Chore!

Readers spill about their children's chores

Clean your room. Make your bed. Help with the laundry. Mow the lawn. For many families, chores are a part of daily life.

While many feel that chores help teach children responsibility and important life skills, there are differences of opinion as to what chores are appropriate for children at different ages and whether children should receive an allowance (or other compensation) for helping around the house.

114 total responses

11% 24%

65%

We expect our children to pitch in and help Our September Question of when asked but don’t assign regular chores, 65% the Month asked if you assign We have a strict list of chores that our chores to your children, what children are expected to do on a regular basis, 24% you consider age appropriate tasks and whether chores Other, 11% are tied to their allowance or Childhood is no place for chores! other compensation. We were We don’t assign them to our children, 0% interested to see that 100% of our readers who submitted a response indicated that their children are responsible for helping out. Over 24% said that their children have a strict list of chores that they are expected to do on a regular basis, and nearly 65% said they expect their children to pitch in and help when asked but don’t assign regular chores. The remaining 11% said their children are currently too young for chores, but indicated they will assign them as their children grow.

Our readers also shared feedback about age-appropriate chores and how they think children should be compensated: Shelley D. of Guthrie, has a system for how her children earn money. “We work off a ‘commission’ concept that we learned from Dave Ramsey.

Our kids have three main, age-appropriate chores each week that they're responsible for and if they don't do all of them, they don't get paid—just like the real world. They have a giving, spending and saving envelopes that they contribute to each week.”

For Marae B. of Midwest City, chores are an issue of personal responsibility.

“Our policy is if you messed it up, you clean it up. We prefer to emphasize personal responsibility. If it is yours, you are responsible for the care and upkeep of it—their rooms, clothes, dishes, etc.”

Sherry C. of Oklahoma City does not pay her children for their household help. “Children should learn daily living responsibilities without expecting monetary rewards.”

Janet W. of Mustang ties allowance to household pride. “This is a family house, and every member of the family has things to do to keep our house running. We talk about how taking pride in our property and how maintaining it reflects pride in ourselves. I want my kids to realize that doing a ‘job’ well and to completion has monetary and non-monetary benefits.”

Elizabeth B. of Norman exchanges an allowance for fun. “My son has an obsession with putting change in his piggy bank, so when he does a good job helping out, picking up all his toys and such, he often gets spare change.

I won't pay him for chores, but when he gets older and wants new toys or to go do things, I will have no problem giving him a little bit of money every now and then if he does as expected and helps out with things.”

Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/september-reader-responses to read more about the other chore-related responses that our readers shared.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | October 2011

Problem-Solvers

Character Corner: Tolerance

When we hear about new or helpful products, we like to let our readers know! Here are a few of the interesting items we’ve recently found. Visit the product website for a list of local retailers.

Being tolerant means that you realize that everyone is at their own level of character development. This understanding will allow you to better understand the needs of others. Understanding their needs rather than judging what you perceive to be their character flaws shows care and acceptance.

Problem:

Taking the baby for a walk is a chilly endeavor.

Solution:

The Peekaru Fleece Baby Carrier Cover keeps baby cozy and warm. ($80, www.togetherbe.com)

With all thy faults, I love thee Still. ~ William Cowper

To promote tolerance in your home: • Focus on each other’s strengths, not weaknesses.

• Parents and children both should learn to accept that they are still growing in character and are not perfect.

• Family members should be careful to be patient with one another.

Problem:

It’s finally cool enough to play outdoors, but we’re bored!

Encourage tolerance in your home by committing to the following statements. Say these “I will” statements aloud with your children, and encourage them to apply them to situations in their everyday life.

Solution:

I will:

The Rollors Game is a fun outdoor game for the whole family. ($79, www.rollors.net)

Problem:

Your tax receipts are an unwieldy paper mess.

Solution:

Scan them into your computer easily with the Fujitsu ScanSnap S1100, a portable and easy-to-use solution that works on Mac or PC. ($200, us.fujitsu.com)

Problem:

“Mom! Hold my stuff!”

Solution:

The Spibelt is made to hold all the stuff your kid carries while on the go. ($20, www.spibelt.com)

Problem:

You have to remove a splinter, your child needs a shot, or something else that generates “Ow! That hurts!”

Solution:

The Buzzy Bee-Stractor Cards are a portable way to help distract your kids when you need an extra hand. ($7, www.buzzy4shots.com)

Problem:

It’s not always easy to bathe the baby.

Solution:

The Baby Diego Bathinette Combo brings baby’s tub up to your level, making bathtime easier for all. ($150, www.babydiego.com)

Problem:

Achoo! Ouch. Allergies are hurting your nose.

Solution:

BoogieWipes Saline Soothers soft wipes will pamper your pained proboscis (nose). ($2, www.salinesoothers.com)

… look beyond appearances. … accept people for who they are. … help others grow in character. … look at myself first. … not confuse what is right with what is popular.

Contact Character First! for more character-building resources. To learn more, call 405-815-0001 or visit characterfirst.com.

Everyday Play: Animal Masks Your young child is developing a growing interest in self-expression and is learning to create symbolic representations of objects through drawing or painting. This fun project can help him create the likeness of his favorite animals while strengthening fine motor skills.

Animal Masks will also develop your child’s ability to use scissors and gives him experience with drawing tools. You’ll need:

Joshua Riester (age 4), Murphy Barnett (age 5) and Meghan Turner (age 5) model their animal masks.

• thick white construction paper or card stock (8.5" x 11") • a variety of drawing tools, such as pencil, marker, crayons, glitter pens, puff paint and paint pens • child-safe scissors • single-hole punch • yarn or string Help your child draw a large circle on the paper, big enough to cover his face. Then, ask your child to decorate the mask and create an animal face. Help him to cut out the mask, making sure the eyes are positioned so that he will be able to see. Give him the hole punch and ask him to punch one hole on either side of the mask. Tie yarn or sting through the holes to fit the mask to his face.

Once he is wearing the mask, ask him questions about the animal he has “become.”

What sounds does he make? How does he walk? What does he eat? Then, act out a simple story using the mask. If your story has other characters, make a mask for them as well.

Have fun with creative activities and pretend play!

Excerpted and used with permission from the Gryphon House book, Everyday Play: Fun Games to Develop the Fine Motor Skills Your Child Needs for School by Christy Isbell.

October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Infant Crisis Services Hits Record

Get a Jump on Holiday Shopping at Mistletoe Market

Infant Crisis Services (ICS), a local nonprofit organization that provides the basic necessities of life to central Oklahoma babies and toddlers, is on track to serve a record number of babies this year.

The Junior League of Oklahoma City hosts Mistletoe Market, scheduled for October 14-16, at the Cox Convention Center in downtown Oklahoma City. Now in its 19th year, Mistletoe Market offers shoppers unique choices from carefully-selected vendors.

“We expect to serve nearly 15,000 babies by the end of the year,” said ICS Executive Director Miki Farris. “We are glad to be here for the families when they need help the most.”

ICS provides formula, food, diapers and clothing to babies and toddlers in times of crisis, and the organization depends on community support and involvement to succeed.

To learn more about Infant Crisis Services and how you can help them serve the community in need, call 405-528-3663 or visit www. infantcrisis.org.

“We are excited to host Mistletoe Market in its new venue this year,” said Katie Moore, Mistletoe Market chair. “The new facility allowed us to increase our vendor pool by more than 20 booths. We hope shoppers enjoy the added selections.” Proceeds from Mistletoe Market help support the Junior League’s multiple community projects which advance the organization’s mission of “changing lives through literacy.”

Shoppers interested in getting a jump on the Mistletoe Market rush are invited to “Sip, Shop and Mingle,” the private preview party on Thursday, October 13.

The event features food from Oklahoma City’s finest restaurants, cocktails, exclusive silent auction items and entertainment, along with the chance to be among the first to shop at market. Tickets are $40 in advance or $50 at the door.

Market hours are Friday, 10:00am-8:00pm; Satuday, 10:00am-6:00pm; and Sunday, 11:00am-5:00pm.

Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for children 3-12 and seniors, and children under 3 are free. Parking is available in the underground parking garage located below the Cox Convention Center and throughout downtown and Bricktown.

Halloween Traditions

​ out we had been “booed.” We never found out who booed us, but we promptly went to www.beenbooed.com to get instructions on how to spread this holiday cheer.

By Kerrie McLoughlin (thekerrieshow.com)

Halloween traditions were a fun part of my childhood, and my mom still calls every year to make sure we know when the Charlie Brown Halloween special is on. Discover traditions with your kids with these fun Halloween ideas.

1.

2.

Pumpkin patch. Start the holiday out right with a visit to a patch to pick out your own pumpkins and decorative gourds. [See our listing on page 16 for great local venues.]

Pumpkin seeds. Toast pumpkin seeds instead of tossing them in the trash because they provide antioxidants, fiber, vitamins and minerals in a tasty, crunchy snack.

Visit www.allrecipes.com for recipe ideas.

3.

Pumpkin carving. Visit www. zombiepumpkins.com for over 240 designs and templates to help with carving your pumpkin.

4.

Booing. Last year we ran to the front door to see who was there and found… nobody. But we did find treats! Plastic cups full of Halloweenthemed pencils, erasers, spider rings and candy. A note was left behind, and it turns

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | October 2011

For more information, visit www.jloc.org.

5.

Holiday specials. Depending on the ages of your kids, watch a Halloween-themed or scary TV show or movie, like It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, Coraline, The Haunted Mansion, The Nightmare Before Christmas or Young Frankenstein.

6.

Colors. Do it up in orange and black. Paint your daughter’s nails, eat Devil’s food cupcakes with orange frosting or color Halloween pictures you print from www.halloween-coloring.com.

7.

Dress up. For ideas, visit www.thedailygreen. com and search “costumes” to see a slideshow with 25 ideas for costumes made from recycled materials.

8. Trick or Treating. Head out in your neighborhood, go to the mall, or visit the church or school-hosted events in costume to trick-or-treat for candy! Isn’t it what you remember most fondly from Halloween?

If you plan to participate in a trunk-or-treat event, find ideas for car decorations at www. trunkortreat.homestead.com.

Most of all, enjoy the memories, the candy and Halloween-themed goodies and don’t forget to take plenty of pictures.

OKC Children Design Dream Playground for Boathouse Foundation Today’s kids spend less time playing outside than previous generations and only one in five children live within walking distance of a park or playground. This lack of physical play can have profound consequences on the physical, mental and social well-being of kids of all ages. KaBOOM! is a national non-profit organization dedicated to saving play. For 15 years, KaBOOM! has been working to ensure there is a great place to play within walking distance of every child.

In September, the Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma, and organizers from KaBOOM! hosted a Design Day for children at the Devon Boathouse. Children from the area put crayon to paper to draw their dream playgrounds, which will ultimately become a reality.

Elements from the children’s drawings will be incorporated into the final design for the new community playground to be built on November 12 in the Boathouse District.

The new playground will provide more than 2,000 children in the local community with a safe place to play. Currently, the children served by the Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation do not have a playground to enjoy at the Oklahoma River. This project is one of nine playground builds taking place in 2011 and is part of “Healthy Kids, Healthy Families,” a three-year initiative designed to improve the health and wellness of at least 1 million children through community investments by Health Care Service Corporation and its Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans in Oklahoma, Illinois, New Mexico, and Texas.

The playground will be the first built by KaBOOM! and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma. The project is one of more than 150 playground builds KaBOOM! will lead across the country in 2011. For more information about KaBOOm!, visit www. kaboom.org.

To learn more about the new playground in the Boathouse district, call 405-522-4040 or visit www.okcbf.org.

Is Your Child a Video Game Addict?

Whether it’s “World of Warcraft,” “Halo,” “Call of Duty” or “Farmville,” video and online games have become part of our everyday vernacular. But if your child spends hours playing games at the expense of homework, outside activities, family interactions or time spent with friends, it can be easy to see how harmless entertainment can cross over into overuse or addiction.

Scott Rigby, Ph.D., is a psychologist who studies gaming and, along with psychologist Richard Ryan, Ph.D., explores this topic in Glued To Games: How Video Games Draw Us In and Hold Us Spellbound (Praeger, $34.95, available at www.amazon.com). The book offers parents an understanding of why games pull kids in, how to determine if their child has a problem with gaming, and age-appropriate help for breaking a gaming habit.

In his research, Rigby discovered that the most popular videoes satisfy three of the most basic and ingrained human needs. These are our intrinsic needs for competence (feeling like you are effective and masterful), autonomy (feeling that you are able to choose your own course of action), and relatedness (a sense that “I matter” to others, and of being part of a team).

According to the Center for Online and Internet Addiction, warning signs for video game addiction include: • Playing for increasing amounts of time.

• Thinking about gaming during other activities.

• Gaming to escape from real-life problems, anxiety, or depression.

• Lying to friends and family to conceal gaming.

• Feeling irritable when trying to cut down on gaming.

If you’re concerned that your child may be addicted to video games, keep track of his gaming behavior to get a true sense of his use. Monitor when he plays and for how long, any problems resulting from gaming and how he reacts to time limits in regard to video games. For more information visit www.netaddiction.com.

October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Walk for Life to Benefit Crossroads Clinic

Field, Forest and Stream Exhibit The Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center hosts Field, Forest and Stream: The History of Oklahomans and the Outdoors. Artifacts and manuscripts on exhibit highlight the hunting, fishing and camping themed exhibit, including items owned by avid outdoorsman Wiley Post, Oklahoma-made fishing lures and vintage Oklahoma camping equipment.

The exhibit will remain on display through January 15, 2012. The Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center is located at 507 S 4th Street in Enid. To learn more, call 580-237-1907 or visit www.csrhc.org.

Crossroads Clinic is a faith-based crisis pregnancy center that provides confidential pregnancy testing, ultrasounds and other pregnancy-related services at no charge to their clients. The clinic reaches out to pregnant young women and single mothers to assist them emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

Crossroads Clinic will host a fundraiser, Walk for Life, on Saturday, October 15 from 8:30am-12:30pm at Mitch Park (1501 W Covell, Edmond). The event includes a 5K Fun Run, a 2-mile walk, and activities for young children. In 2010, the program raised $14,000 to support the Clinic’s services for women and this year’s goal is $25,000.

Team, company and individual participants can register online and set their individual fundraising goals.

For more information, visit www. crossroadsguthrie.com.

October is National Dyslexia Awareness Month One in 10 people have symptoms of dyslexia, which can include slow or inaccurate reading, poor spelling, poor writing, or confusion of similar words. October is National Dyslexia Awareness Month and the International Dyslexia Association shares some important information for parents: • Dyslexia is a language-based learning disability. Students with dyslexia usually experience difficulties with other language skills such as spelling, writing, and pronouncing words.

• Dyslexia is not due to a lack of intelligence or desire to learn. With appropriate teaching methods, dyslexics can learn successfully. Dyslexia occurs in people of all backgrounds and intellectual levels.

• Dyslexia is not simply “reading backwards.” Some of the problems experienced by dyslexics include trouble learning letters and their sounds, trouble memorizing number facts, difficulty reading quickly enough to comprehend, difficulty spelling, trouble learning a foreign language and difficulty with math operations.

Parents who suspect that their child might be exhibiting signs of dyslexia or another language-based learning difference are encouraged to take action as soon as they suspect a problem. The earlier a child receives intervention, the sooner he or she can get on the path to successful learning.

Contact your child’s teacher, principal, guidance counselor or pediatrician to express your concerns. Request a formal evaluation of your child by a professional or a referral for testing to confirm a diagnosis of dyslexia or another language-based learning difference.

For fact sheets, helpful information and to connect with a community of other parents, visit the International Dyslexia Association’s website www.interdys.org.

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October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Your Healthy Family Couch-to-5K Training Program per week, lasting approximately 30 minutes each. Those workouts consist of both walking and running at varying intervals, gradually working up to a more continuous running pace. The benefits of running for fitness are undeniable. Not only can you take off pounds and inches, but these types of workouts improve cardiovascular health and increase energy and metabolism.

Success Stories

A

fter what has proven to be the longest and hottest summer in our state’s history, autumn brings a long-overdue respite from searing temperatures, allowing us to at last leave the air-conditioned confines of our homes and offices. In my family’s case, this has been the laziest summer of our lives, and as a result, we had all been feeling sluglish and out of shape. We needed motivation and energy to go back to school and to resume our sometimes-hectic schedules. I noticed several Facebook and Twitter posts discussing the Couch to 5K program and began to investigate further. The program was obviously popular, but could it really take someone with no experience as a runner and get her into shape?

The Program Couch to 5K is designed to get ordinary folks (as in non-runners) up and moving and able to complete a 5K run in about nine weeks.

The program incorporates three workouts

What is a 5K?

Shana Barton is a human resources executive and new mom in her early thirties. After giving birth to her first child in May, she was ready to get back into shape. “One of my co-workers was doing Couch to 5K and recommended it,” says Barton. “I wanted to be healthy, have more endurance, and feel better physically.” Now in her fifth week, she has graduated to running around two miles. She plans to continue running after she finishes the training course, and is considering running in a local race. “It definitely helps me with being in a routine and gives me more energy as a new mom. I actually have more energy now than I did before I got pregnant!”

The mother of two Edmond middle schoolers, Louise Linihan began running not long after the birth of her first child 13 years ago. “Being a stay-at-home mom can be a bit redundant, and I needed to do something that would help me be strong for myself and my family,” she says. “Running is easy, and thanks to the treadmill, it can be done at almost any time in any weather. You just put on some running shoes and go!”

A decade and a half later, Linihan has run in countless races, both in Oklahoma and across the United States. While she calls the Oklahoma Memorial Marathon the most inspiring, her favorite is the White Rock Marathon in Dallas. “Running helps with my health, stamina, and confidence, and there’s this giant unspoken club of runners.

There are no dues or meetings or initiation ceremony, and this community is very supportive of all of its members. They’re pretty much excited about everyone that runs, they’re glad to see us trying, and they’re always cheering us on to do better. There are few things better than crossing the finish line after a marathon. I still cry every time,” sas Linihan.

Running For a Cause This fall, Linihan has taken on an ambitious project. She is working to train the 11- and 12-year-old members of Girl Scout Troop 728 for October’s Race for the Cure. “Last spring, the day before a 5K, my daughter asked if she could run it, and I said ‘No way!’ After she saw the event, she realized she would need time to train, and asked if we could prepare to run a 5K in the fall.” She had the idea to train with her Girl Scout troop, and Linihan offered to help. “Her troop has always been a close group and loves working together on projects. Middle school can be a tough transition, and I thought completing a 5K would be a big confidence boost for her and her friends.” After discussing the matter with the troop leaders and moms, she chose Couch to 5K to train the girls.

“The hardest part about starting a running

A 5K is a five kilometer race, the equivalent of 3.1 miles.

Couch to 5K Program A Couch to 5K program is designed to assist those new to running with successfully completing a 5K run. Visit www.metrofamilymagazine. com/october-2011 for more information and an 8-week breakdown on how to build to a 5K distance. Please note, always consult your doctor before starting any fitness regimen.

2011 Oklahoma City-Area Races • October 15: Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure at the AT&T Bricktown Ballpark raises funds to support the fight against breast cancer thought a 1-mile and 5K walk/run and children’s walk/run. www.komencentralwesternok.org.

• October 29: 5K to Monet 1 mile fun run and 5K at Edmond’s Mitch Park benefits the Fine Art Institute. www.edmondfinearts. com.

• October 29: Monster Dash 5K & 1 mile fun run/walk at Norman’s Journey Church benefits Junior League projects. www. juniorleagueofnorman.com.

• November 12: Race for Hope 2011 at Lake Overholser benefits

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• • • •

the Oklahoma Brain Tumor Foundation with a 12K, 5K, 1-mile fun run, dog jog, and kids dash. www.okbtf.org.

November 24: Turkey Trot 2011 benefits the YMCA of Greater OKC and Eagle Ridge Institute. Includes 5K, 5K dog run and 1-mile fun run. $25-$40. 297-7000, www.ymcaokc.org.

December 10: NorthCare Reindeer Run 5K and 10K in NW Oklahoma City benefits crisis counseling for children. www. northcare.com/reindeer_run.html December 10: SandRidge Santa Run 5K, 1 mile fun run and kids dash benefiting the Police Athletic League, including a costume contest and more. www.downtownindecember.com.

Check metrofamilymagazine.com/calendar for other races in the coming months.

program is overextending yourself early and burning out before you really give yourself a chance,” says Linihan. “Couch to 5K is a great plan to lead even inexperienced runners to a successful race.”

One of the unexpected perks for Linihan?

Not only have the girls taken well to training, most of their moms have joined in as well. (Including me!) Because you see, I’m one of 728’s troop leaders and I’m also a thirtysomething mom in average shape, who needed to do SOMETHING after the most lethargic summer in her personal history. As I’m writing this, I’m halfway through the Couch to 5K program and doing well, even with zero running experience. My seven troop members are also doing remarkably well, and I am confident that we will successfully complete Race for the Cure. Please keep your fingers crossed for us on October 15th!

If you have been looking for a good way to be more active this fall, consider the Couch to 5K program. The gradual, flexible pace allows almost anyone to find success and enjoy the benefits of better health, even with little or no experience as a runner.

New runner Shannon Fields is a freelance writer from Edmond and a Certified Pharmacy Technician at Innovative Pharmacy Solutions.

Edmond Girl Scout Troop 728 have fun at one of their training sessions to prepare for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. L to R: Sarah, age 11, daughter of Emily Davey and Todd Schuman; Emily, age 11, daughter of Shannon and Brian Fields; Faith, age 11, daughter of Candice and Mike Bowles; Suzie, age 12, daughter of Louise and Jeff Linihan; Mackenzie, age 11, daughter of John and Kristin Ford; Anna, age 11, daughter of Maggie and David Kastler; and Madison, age 13, daughter of Angel and Greg Peck.

Photos by Sarah Taylor

October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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fall family fun guide With lovely fall weather and Halloween festivities, October is always a great month to visit local festivals and pumpkin patches. Be sure to have your camera handy as there will be many memorable moments to capture!

PUMPKIN PATCHES Through October

St. Matthew United Methodist Church Annual Pumpkin Patch (300 N Air Depot, Midwest City) benefits local missions. Monday-Saturday, 9am-8pm; Sunday, 12-8pm. 732-6831, www.stmatthew.org.

Chester's Pumpkin Patch & Three Acre Mystery Maze (5201 Cimarron Rd NW, Piedmont) includes pumpkin with paid admission (while supplies last), family-friendly activities & 3-acre mystery maze. $7 plus tax, infants & seniors 65+ FREE. Monday-Saturday, 9am-6pm; Sunday, 1-6pm. 373-1595, www.chesterspumpkinpatch.com.

TG Farms Pumpkin Patch in Norman (4335 W Hwy 9 West) & Newcastle (1580 NW Hwy 37) includes pumpkins, hayride, corn & hay mazes, petting zoo & pony rides. $8 (walking age & above), includes pumpkin.

Pony ride $4. Monday-Saturday, 9am-dark; Sunday, noon-dark. 387-3276, www.tgfarms.com.

Mikles Family Farm Maze & Pumpkin Patch (42610 N Wolverine, Shawnee) includes maze, hayride & barrel train rides. $7.50 adults, $6.50 ages 3-11 & 65+, FREE ages 2 & under, ($5 for haunted trail). Cash only at concessions and for pumpkins & souvenirs. Fridays, 6-10pm; Saturdays, 11am-10pm; Sundays, noon-5pm.

401-8371, www.miklesfamilyfarm.com.

Orr Family Farm's Pumpkin Patch (14400 S Western) features pumpkin patch, corn maze, hayrides & more. $10 for farm admission & pumpkin patch; hayride & corn maze additional. Tuesday-Thursday, 10am-6pm; FridaySaturday, 10am-9pm. 799-FARM, www.orrfamilyfarm. com. Through 11/5.

P Bar Farms (10108 N 2440 Rd, between Hydro & Weatherford, west of OKC on I-40) offers a corn maze, haunted maze, laser tag, pumpkin patch, petting farm & more. $7 corn maze, $6 laser tag, $3 barn yard, $8 haunted maze. Thursday-Friday, 6-10pm; Saturday, 10am-10pm. 580-772-4401, www.pbarfarms.com.

Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch (720 Henney, Arcadia) includes hayrides, corn maze, petting zoo, pick your own pumpkin. $8 (cash or check only). Friday-Saturday, 10am-8pm; Sunday, 1-6pm. 396-0909, www.parkhurstpumpkinpatch.com.

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Wild Things Farm (700 Beaty, Pocola) includes hayride, corn maze, animals & a pie pumpkin, $8, $5 for the Flashlight Maze on Fridays and Saturdays from 7-9pm.

Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, noon-4pm. 918-6264053, www.wildthingsfarm.com.

FALL FUN EVENTS October 1-9 Pumpkin Drive at the OKC Zoo (2101 NE 50th, OKC) offers FREE admission to guests who bring a pumpkin larger than their head. 9am-5pm. 424-3344, www. okczoo.com.

October 1-31 FrightFest at Frontier City invites guests to experience thrills & chills as Frontier City lets all ghouls out for the annual FrightFest celebration. Also Trick or Treat Trail available for ages 10 and under. Both are FREE with park admission; extra charge for Haunted House entry.

478-2140, www.frontiercity.com.

Nightmare in the Country (38368 S County Road 195, Woodward) is one of Oklahoma's top rated Halloween attractions delivering thrills and chills for patrons 10 &

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older on 5 acres. Runs every weekend in October, see website for schedule. $13. 8pm. 580-254-3944, www. nightmareinthecountry.com.

Terror on 10th Street Haunted House (2005 NW 10th, OKC) invites guests on a guided tour of the home to participate in a theatrical performance while learning the ghostly history behind the house of horrors. Open all Friday, Saturday & Sunday nights in October and every night starting Wednesday, October 26th through Monday, October 31st. $6 per person. 7-11pm. 232-1816.

Friday, October 7 Friday Night at the Orr Family Farm (14400 S Western, OKC) invites guests to visit the corn maze, pick a pumpkin from the patch, take a hay ride & enjoy “Spookley the Square Pumpkin” at the outdoor picnic area. 10am-9pm. 799-FARM, www.orrfamilyfarm.com.

Also held 10/14, 21.

Saturday, October 8 Pumpkin Festival at St. Matthew United Methodist Church (300 N Air Depot, Midwest City) includes pumpkin patch, crafts, rummage sale, silent auction, bake sale, children’s games & crafts, inflatables, concessions, entertainment & more. Proceeds benefit local missions & non-profits. 9am-4pm. 732-6831, www. stmatthew.org.

Pumpkin Seed Spitting Contest at Orr Family Farm (14400 S Western, OKC) will be held every Saturday in October. Register before 3pm for the chance to win a $100 Al's Bicycle gift certificate. The winner of each Saturday competition will compete for the grand prize on October 29th. 3pm. 799-FARM, www.orrfamilyfarm.com.

Tuesday, October 11 Pumpkin Painting at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang, Mustang) invites children 6 & under to decorate their own pumpkin to take home. Decorations, paint & snack provided, bring pumpkin. $3. 11am-12pm.

376-3411, www.cityofmustang.org.

Friday, October 14 Mummy & Me at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang, Mustang) is a night out for Mothers & Sons to get dressed up & dance the night away. Entertainment, activities & snacks provided. $5 per ticket. 7-9pm. 3763411, www.cityofmustang.org.

October 14-29 Haunt the Oklahoma River features after-dark cruises that depart from Meridian Landing (4345 SW 15th, OKC) and include delicious food, a cash bar, costumes & prizes for a frightfully fun evening. Reservations required. $35. 8pm. 702-7755, www.okrivercruises.com.

Saturday, October 15 Pink Pumpkins for a Cure at Orr Family Farm (14400 S Western, OKC). Wear a pink shirt & 25% of your admission will be donated to the Susan G. Komen foundation. Purchase pink pumpkins at the farm October 11-15. 10am-9pm. 799-FARM, www.orrfamilyfarm.com.

FREE PumpkinFest at Choctaw United Methodist Church (1200 N Choctaw Rd, Choctaw). Any child (senior in high school or younger) can pick out a pumpkin to take home (while supplies last). There will also be snacks, games, inflatable toys and live music for everyone. 1-4pm. 390-8151, www.choctawumc.com.

FREE Adventures with Transformers’ Optimus Prime & Halloween Face Painting at Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen) 10:30am. 418-8881, www. uptownkidsstyle.com.

October 21-22 Spook-A-Rama at Kiddie Park (201 S Cherokee, Bartlesville) includes a live Mad Scientist show, fun activities & rides for children 12 & under. 6-10pm. 918336-5337, www.kiddiepark.net.

FREE Sleepy Hollow Fest in Luther offers live musical performances, an antique tractor show, a pet-owner costume competition, a fun foam party, haunted hay rack rides, pumpkin carving, and more. Leashed pets welcome. 635-4967, www.townoflutherok.com.

October 21-30 Freaky Forest at Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch (720 Henney, Arcadia). $10, cash or check only. 8-11pm. 3960909, www.parkhurstpumpkinpatch.com.

Saturday, October 22 FREE Sugar Free All Stars Halloween Concert & Costume Contest at Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen) f eatures kindie music & a costume contest. 10:30am.

418-8881, www.uptownkidsstyle.com.

Fall Festival at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867

Charles Cooper Memorial Rd, Sulphur) includes a pumpkin patch, food arbors, storytelling, stomp dancing and Chickasaw cookbook signing. Regular admission applies. 10am-5pm. 580-622-7130, www. chickasawculturalcenter.com.

Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest at Orr Family Farm (14400 S Western, OKC) invites the first 20 registrants to compete to see who can eat one whole pumpkin pie the fastest for prizes. Preregister, 10am-1pm. Contest at 2pm. 799-3276, www.orrfamilyfarm.com.

FREE Pumpkin Palooza at Mitch Park in Edmond features a pumpkin carving contest, fall crafts, an inflatable, face painting, Pumpkin Chunkin & music.

Costumes welcome. 4-8pm. 359-4630, www. visitedmondok.com.

October 24-28 Trick or Treat Bag Week at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52nd, OKC) invites guests to decorate a Trick or Treat Bag with their favorite SMO facilitator. FREE with paid museum admission. 9am5pm, www.sciencemuseumok.org.

October 24-31 Storybook Forest at Arcadia Lake is a not-so-scary walk through trick-or-treat path featuring storybook characters & scenes, hayride, games, & campfire for roasting hot dogs & marshmallows. 5:30-8:30pm. 2167471, www.arcadialakeok.com.

Tuesday, October 25 Halloween Party at Bouncin Craze (14901 N Lincoln, Edmond) invites children for some bouncin' fun and great Halloween activities. $7.50 per child 2 & up.

4-8pm. 607-2020, www.bouncincraze.com.

FREE Dress Up Party for Preschoolers at the Warr Acres Library (5901 NW 63rd, Warr Acres) invites children 2 ½ to 5 years old to come in comstume to hear Miss Alma & her puppets & enjoy treats. Preregister.

6:30-7:30pm. 721-2616, www.metrolibrary.org.

UCO Voice Faculty: Halloween III at UCO Jazz Lab (100 E 5, Edmond) features UCO Voice Faculty singing selections for the season. Reservations encouraged. $10. 7:30pm. 974-5004, www.ucojazzlab.com

October 26-31

games, treasure hunt & mermaid & pirate dive shows. $10 adults, $7 children. 6:30-9pm. 918-296-3474, www. okaquarium.org.

Friday, October 28 FREE Scary Face Pancakes at IHOP Restaurants provides free pancakes for children 12 & under to decorate & eat as part of their October celebration. 7am10pm. www.ihop.com.

FREE Annual Fall Festival at Church of the Servant (14343 N MacArthur Blvd, OKC) features games, inflatables, clowns, face painting and more. Food available for purchase. Costumes / treat bags wecome.

Donations of diapers, blankets, formula and more to benefit Infant Crisis Services will be taken at the door.

6-8:30pm. 922-5420, www.churchoftheservant.com.

Bright Night of Not-So-Frightening Fun at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52nd, OKC) includes an overnight stay in the museum, admission to exhibits, Science Live theater production, Dome Theater movie, Planetarium show, hands-on activities & more. 1 adult for every 6 children required. 6pm-8:30am. 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org.

Nosferatu-Silent Film with Live Organ Accompaniment at Sharp Hall in OU Catlett Music Center (500 W Boyd, Norman) screens Nosferatu with live organ accompaniment.$9. 8pm. 325-4101, http:// aoi.ou.edu.

October 28-29 House of the Bogeyman at Kiddie Park (201 S Cherokee, Bartlesville) is a scary haunted experience for children 12 & older. Rides will not be running. $5.

7-10pm. 918-336-5337, www.kiddiepark.net.

Saturday, October 29 Halloween Train Rides at the Oklahoma Railway Museum (3400 NE Grand, OKC). $15 per person, $2 off for riders in costume. Children under 3 FREE. 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1:30pm & 2:30pm. 424-8222, www. oklahomarailwaymuseum.org.

Spooksville at the Yukon Community Center (2200 S Holly, Yukon) is a full Halloween festival including dog costume contest, kids costume contest, carnival games, clowns, magicians, candy & haunted house. $3, adults FREE. 1:30-6pm. 345-8442, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

Haunt the Zoo at the OKC Zoo (2101 NE 50th, OKC) features Halloween fun & trick or treating. $6 per child in advance, $7 at the door, adults are FREE. 6:30-8:30pm.

424-3344, www.okczoo.com.

FREE Trick or Treat City at Joe B Barnes Regional Park in Midwest City offers fun, safe trick-or-treating, inflatables, games & activities. 2-4:30pm. 739-1293, www.midwestcityok.org.

Thursday, October 27

FREE Halloween Festival at the Moore Community Center (301 S Howard, Moore) includes games, costume contest, haunted room, candy & more. 4-7pm.

793-4332, www.cityofmoore.com.

Haunt the Harn at the Harn Homestead (1721 N. Lincoln) is a family-friendly trick-or-treat event for all ages, including a hayride, marshamallow roasting and more. $3 in advance, $5 at door, FREE for members and accompanying parents. 5:30-8:30pm. 235-4058, harnhomestead.com.

October 27-31 HallowMarine at the Oklahoma Aquarium (300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks) features an indoor trick-or-treat trail,

FREE Haunt Old Town Moore in Old Town Moore Downtown (Main & Broadway, Moore) features trick or treating, inflatables, karaoke, food vendors, hayrides, shopping & candy. 4-7pm. 799-4770, www.cityofmoore.com.

FREE Spooktacular at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang, Mustang) is a safe place to trick or treat and play. 6:30-9pm. 376-3411, www.cityofmustang.org.

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Sunday, October 30 FREE The Magic Lantern: A Night of Light Instead of Fright in the Paseo Arts District invites children to work with their parents/guardians to create unique Halloween costumes, parade around Paseo, walk through a winding Labyrinth adorned with pumpkins & enjoy an enchanting performance by StarDanceSwan dancers. 3-7pm. 525-2688, www.thepaseo.com.

FREE Trunk-or-Treat at Crown Heights Christian Church (4020 N Western) features games, candy & a family-friendly Halloween bash. Trunk-or-treaters should be 12 & younger. All children must be accompanied by an adult. 5-6:30pm. 528-5568.

FREE Family Fall Fest at Trinity Church of the Nazarene (7301 S Walker, OKC) includes a Bible Walk, games for all ages, inflatables, a maze, a hayride and food.

5:30-8pm. 632-3307, www.trinitynazokc.com.

FREE Trunk-or-Treat at New Covenant United Methodist Church (2700 S Boulevard, Edmond) is a safe, family-friendly carnival including games, a moonbounce, refreshments, door prizes, trick-or-treating and friendly costumes. 6-8pm. 562-3200, www.ncovenant.org.

Monday, October 31 FREE Trick or Treat on the Street in Downtown Edmond Shop has merchants handing out candy. 5-7pm. 249-9391, www.downtownedmondok.com.

Halloween Bash at the Museum of Osteology (10301 S Sunnylane) provides candy for those who shows up in costume, as well as discounted admission. $3, children under 3 are FREE with a paid adult. 6-9pm. 814-0006, www.museumofosteology.org.

FREE 10th Annual FestiFall at Putnam City Baptist Church (11401 N Rockwell, OKC) provides a safe, fun Halloween alternative event including inflatables, games, food for purchase and candy. All children must be accompanied by an adult. No scary costumes. 6:30-8:30pm. 773-6900, www.pcbcok.org.

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October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Chores Make the Grade Brian Pacilio is a typical 15-year-old, busy with sports, school, friends. But he’s not too busy to help with dinner dishes, do some laundry, take out the trash and keep his bathroom “hotel ready.” That’s because for Brian’s mom, Cheryl, it’s about more than getting help with housework. It’s about helping her son, too.

Chores can be an important part of our kids’ lives. Not only do tasks at home teach life skills and allow kids to contribute to the running of the household, they also yield benefits that support even the youngest child’s academic life.

Preschool For young children, household tasks can provide real-life experience with sorting, matching and patterning. Have your preschooler help sort laundry into light and dark piles, or ask him to match up pairs of socks out of the clean laundry pile. Let him put away the silverware from the dishwasher, which requires sorting each type of utensil.

Preschoolers can also help set the table, an exercise in patterning (Fork, plate, cup, knife, repeat).

Amy Payton, an occupational therapist, points out that “learning to clean up at home also translates to school. Hanging his jacket on a hook; having a place for his shoes and backpack.”

Keep organization simple for this age and your children will have the tools needed to follow expectations in preschool.

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Elementary School Once children reach elementary school, they’re ready to take more responsibility. Tara Aaronson, author of Mrs. Clean Jeans’ Housekeeping with Kids says, “Chores give kids a sense of responsibility that follows through into other areas of their lives, especially school.” She also encourages parents to, “invest the time now and you’ll be rewarded with a child who takes pride (if not joy) in carrying his share of the home cleaning load.”

Chores can help kids practice math and planning skills. Most children this age can help cook meals by working alongside mom or dad. She’ll get hands-on experience with fractions while she measures ingredients and, with some input from an adult, can learn the science behind different aspects of cooking and baking. For younger elementary age children, focus on estimating and comparative sizes.

Have a garden? School-aged children can help plan, plant and maintain your garden. Planning out the division of space for different plants and measuring planting depth and distances provide a great mental workout.

Payton agrees. “[Gardening] is a great multi-step chore. Look at it as step-by-step sequencing. Have them plan out the tools needed. It can even involve research.” Kids can learn soil properties and gardening conditions, making it a great science-related chore as well.

Junior High and High School Kids this age have hectic schedules, but parents should still make sure they make time to help with chores. In fact, as her children grew older, Cheryl Pacilio added responsibilities, rather than reducing them. She ties her son’s allowance to his chores as a way to motivate him and train him in real world economics.

Chores For Preschoolers Preschoolers learn by doing, and parents are their best teachers. We can help young children develop a ‘can do attitude’ by teaching them skills they will use for the rest of their lives.

Dr. Linda Passmark, former director of the Okla. State Department of Health Child Development Program, confirms that chores are important for children three to five years of age. “Preschoolers learn they are a valuable part of the family, because they are contributing to the family.”

Suggested Chores for Preschoolers • Making beds. Preschoolers can help remove sheets and carry to the laundry area.

• Washing clothes. Show preschoolers how detergent is measured, how wash or dry cycles and temperatures are selected. Ask him to help by tossing wet clothing into the dryer. Give him a basket of clean clothes to fold when washing is done. Hand towels and socks are good items to start with.

• Cooking. Preschoolers can help with stirring, pouring and, best of all, tasting.

• Washing dishes. Provide your preschooler with several objects (plastic ware or washable toys) to wash and discuss how to best clean the items.

• Groceries. At the store, discuss the items that you choose. When you get home, let him help carry small items or place items on the shelf in your pantry.

• Dusting. Let your preschooler loose with a clean cloth, paper towel or feather duster (no polish).

• Yard work. Preschoolers can help with weeding, watering plants, bagging fall leaves or sweeping the sidewalk.

Young children usually have short attention spans, so they will likely be ready to move on to another activity after five to 15 minutes. All preschool chores require adult supervision in order for the child to learn the expectations/sequence for completing the task.

Donna S. Jones, M.Ed is a Certified Child and Parenting Specialist in Tahlequah.

Jobs like mowing the lawn and vacuuming can be good for teenaged brains as a mental shift. The downtime from thinking about schoolwork while getting tasks done can be both refreshing and energizing.

Chores at this age also develop other academic skills such as learning how to prioritize and working on time management. Payton points out the benefits of learning to plan are related to housework, in particular laundry. A teen might say, “I want to wear my favorite jeans on the weekend, but I forgot to wash them…”

The big idea at this age is to progressively assign more responsibility. As Pacilio notes, “The value of chores is in creating full-functioning members of a society.”

Start Now! New to the idea of chores and not sure where to start? Aaronson suggests starting slow. “Begin by creating a chores list with just one or two chores for each school-age kid.”

Giving kids jobs shouldn’t be looked at as a burden or a punishment. Parents need to remember that chores won’t hamper kids success at school, but instead will build on it.

Pacilio advises, “I would encourage parents to look at chores as necessary teaching opportunities. To let your child leave the house still a child is to thwart his adulthood and cripple a society. Chores are the tools you use to create a good employee, an appreciated neighbor, and most importantly, a good spouse and parent himself.”

Lara Krupicka is a freelance writer and mom to three girls, ages 7, 10 and 12. She learns as much from sharing housework with her kids as they learn from her.

Suggested Chores for School Age Children (adapted from Mrs. Clean Jeans’ Housekeeping with Kids) Elementary-Age • • • • • •

Make their bed Squeegee the shower Feed & exercise pets Clean pets’ bowls and cages Wipe down interior of microwave Simple cooking tasks such as rinsing vegetables • Put dishes in dishwasher • Take out trash and recycling

Tween • • • • •

Teen

Pour beverages for meals Help hand-wash dishes Make lunch for school Unload the dishwasher Disinfect kitchen and bathroom countertops

• • • •

Prepare meals Clean coffeemaker thoroughly Mow lawn Vacuum house

October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Oklahoma Reads Great Reads for All

Mannheim Steamroller Halloween: The World Between Story by Chip Davis, written by Jill Stern (Mannheaim Steamroller, hardcover with CD, $20) A sequel to the top-selling Christmas: A Night Like No Other, this title brings back Evan, Kelly and Elyse for a Halloween adventure that will change their life forever. Complete with a bookmark decoder and Mannheim Steamroller music CD that will set the tone for a spooky Halloween adventure.

Early Readers Alpha Oops! H is for Halloween

By Alethea Kontis, illustrated by Bob Kolar (Candlewick Press, hardcover, $8) The Halloween version of the children’s favorite features the out-of-order letters that make learning fun.

What if Everything Had Legs?

By Scott Menchin (Candlewick Press, hardcover, $16) What kid doesn’t wish that their toys would get up and put themselves away? A fallthemed fanciful tale of what the world would be like if everything had legs. Fun to read—with pictures that make it even more fun.

What’s in the Witch’s Kitchen?

By Nick Sharratt (Candlewick Press, hardcover, $13) This fun Halloween version of a lift-theflap book has tricks or treats behind every flap, depending on which way you open them. A fun read for the season!

The Woods

By Paul Hoppe (Chronicle Kids, hardcover, $17) A little boy has misplaced his fluffy bunny and ventures into the woods to find it. Join him on his adventures with a variety of characters, spooky and tame, as he searches for his stuffed bunny friend!

Grades 2+ Horrid Henry Wakes the Dead

By Francesca Simon (Sourcebooks, softcover, $5) Horrid Henry’s adventures continue in this latest title, which features four new tales of his misadventures. In these stories, Henry vies for the office of school president, takes over the TV and enlists his brother into his plans.

Eye Popping 3D Bugs

By Barry Rothstein and Betsy Rothstein (Chronicle Kids, hardcover, $20) An oversized volume filled with oversized insects that pop off the page with the help of the enclosed 3D glasses. So creepy that you’ll have a hard time looking away.

Grades 4+ The Exquisite Corpse Adventure

By The National Book and Literacy Alliance (Candlewick, hardcover, $18) An ingenious and spooky adventure told by 20 acclaimed artists and storytellers, each of whom have written or illustrated a cliff-hanger chapter before passing the story to the next writer. The tale was originally published on the read.gov website. It all starts with a train rushing through the night; who knows where it will end!

Adults 101 Offline Activities

By Steve and Ruth Bennett (BPT Press, softcover, $20) Worried that your kids are too plugged-in? Take them offline with these activities that are fun for all ages and can be done at home or on the go with minimal supplies.

The 150 Best Slow Cooker Recipes

By Judith Finlayson (Robert Rose, softcover, $28) Enjoy fall cooking at its finest with these slow cooker recipes that cover everything from appetizers to desserts. Includes tips for effectively using your slow cooker that are perfect for novice chefs.

Reviews by MetroFamily Magazine editor Mari Farthing.

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Don’t Tell Me What to Do, Just Send Money: The Essential Guide Parenting Guide to the College Years

By Helen E. Johnson & Christine Schelhas-Miller (St. Martin’s Griffin, softcover, $22) So, you sent your kids off to college and they were ready to go! But are you ready for the changes?

This is a newly-updated edition of a parent’s handbook for managing the changes in family relationships that occur when you add college to the mix.

Expect More: Children Can Do Remarkable Things

By Anne Grall Reichel (AuthorHouse, softcover, $12) For parents who believe that learning extends far beyond the classroom, this book offers ideas that parents can use to challenge children in scientific and social studies disciplines that will encourage entrepreneurial thinking as they get older.

Nutrition: What Every Parent Needs to Know

By Anne Grall Reichel (AuthorHouse, softcover, $12) The Amerian Academy of Pediatrics presents this guide for parents that addresses real-life nutrition issues for all ages. From newborn feeding basics through food and medicine interactions, this title is a valuable addition to any home library.

The Ultimate Student Cookbook: From Chicken to Chili

By Tiffany Goodall (Firefly Books, softcover, $15) If you find that your college student cleans out your leftovers each time they come home, arm them with this book that is filled with easyto-cook recipes that run the gamut from breakfast to cocktail hour.

October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Family Finances What’s the Big Deal with Inflation?

I

t seems as though the word inflation is used in almost every newscast or serious conversation about our national economy these days. However, inflation is one of those economic terms that is often misused and misunderstood. So, what is inflation and how does it impact personal finances?

Inflation means that the average of all prices in the economy is increasing. It does not mean that all prices are increasing, only the average of those prices. Even during periods of high inflation, some prices may actually be dropping while others are escalating rapidly.

It can be difficult for policymakers to react to changes in the inflation rate as they are working with this average of prices.

Additionally, this average is not based on every product but rather a set market basket of products that are monitored regularly for price changes.

And to make it more confusing? There is more than one measure (or index) that measures inflation.

Most inflation reports are based on the official Consumer Price Index (CPI-U), a measure of price changes for a market basket of goods and services purchased by urban consumers, and is frequently called a cost-ofliving index. This rate is generally reported monthly, quarterly and annually by Bureau of Labor Statistics, a division of the U.S. Department of Labor. Contents of the market basket for the CPI-U are intended to represent purchases made by “typical” U.S. families, divided into categories that include food and beverages, housing, apparel, transportation, medical care, recreation, education and communication, and other. Each of these areas is weighted to reflect the typical percentage of household income allotted for those expenditures. While few families fit the actual model, it still allows government officials to determine what is happening to the prices of products commonly used by most households.

The core inflation rate is a rate that has been frequently quoted for the last several months.

The core rate is based on the CPI-U without the products that tend to have highly volatile prices, such as gasoline and food. Energy and food prices tend to react much more quickly to what economists call “price shocks,” meaning that their availability can change rapidly and thus the cost to the consumer also changes rapidly. While these price shocks can certainly wreak havoc to a family’s spending plan, those changes may be short-lived. Using the core inflation rate—the CPI-U minus energy and food costs—to set policy gives

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decision makers a better look at long-term trends in prices. Therefore, it tends to be one of the most important indexes used to monitor the need for policy changes to offset the impact of inflation.

The CPI-U is important because it becomes the basis for changes in Social Security benefits and other cost-of-living adjustments tied to the inflation rate. Social Security recipients will receive an increase in their monthly payments when the CPI-U posts an increase at the end of the federal government’s fiscal year. Basically, this means that if the CPI-U for the year ending September 30 is higher than it was at that same time the previous year, recipients will receive an increase for the coming year. So, if the CPI-U for the year ending September 30, 2011, is four percent, then the government will announce that all Social Security checks will increase by four percent in January 2012 and continue at that amount until another increase is warranted.

The CPI-U also plays a role in setting the tax brackets for personal income tax. Tax brackets are used to set the maximum tax values for various income levels. Those brackets are adjusted annually based on the CPI-U. A higher rate of inflation will broaden those brackets to help families offset the increased purchasing prices for goods and services.

In addition, the inflation rate is a driving factor in setting interest rates; which means it has a big impact on mortgage rates, savings

accounts, investment accounts, stock prices and a variety of other things that impact wealth and purchasing power. Lenders and investors often attempt to hedge against inflation, hoping to protect themselves from potential fluctuations in prices.

Measuring inflation and evaluating its economic impact is not a perfect science. It impacts people differently, depending upon a variety of situations. As a general rule, expected inflation is much easier to deal with than unexpected inflation—which generally results from price shocks.

While inflation sounds awful, deflation can be just as devastating to personal finances.

Deflation means that goods and services, such as your home, are worth less today than what you paid for them. Therefore, most economists and policymakers are content to live with minimal rates of inflation.

Unfortunately, price changes are just a fact we have to live with in a market-based economy. Only in rare situations can we control what happens to price fluctuations; however, all families can develop an awareness of inflation trends and take steps to minimize the impact.

Sue Lynn Sasser, PhD, is a Professor of Economics at the University of Central Oklahoma.

Ten Tips to Survive Inflation 1.

Reevaluate budgets or spending plans to trim unnecessary spending.

2. Compare prices online, in advertisements and by phone to find the best deals.

3. Shop only when necessary and use a carefully planned list; buy “in season” or less expensive products when possible.

4. Cut costs by using carpools, finding less expensive entertainment options, eating at home more often, and controlling food expenses at the grocery store.

5. Look for ways to increase income, such as a second job, working extra hours or garage sales.

6. Avoid dipping into emergency savings or retirement accounts.

7. Avoid using credit cards or incurring additional debt.

8. Shop sales, discount stores and thrift stores.

9. Delay major purchases until absolutely necessary.

10. Realize it’s okay to say “no” to unplanned purchases not listed in the family budget.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | October 2011

October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Dealing with Change, Grief & Loss Tips for Guiding Your Child at Every Age

“Losing a child is as bad as it gets,” says Thom Vines, author and public school educator from Lubbock, Texas. “Sometimes I can look at the long term and other times the pain is too much. It’s like trying to pick up jelly.”

On September 2, 2008, Kelsey, one of Vines’ twin daughters, was killed instantly when a dump truck with faulty steering veered into her lane as she was driving home from school. Kelsey was 18 at the time and a senior at Lubbock High School. Her family remembers her as being a talented photographer and captain of the basketball team, with a goofy side and a mischievous giggle.

“I still have to convince myself that it really did happen. That the whole thing isn’t just a bad dream,” Vines explains.

Vines knows all too well what it’s like to deal with grief and the tough road that he, his wife and other two children have navigated in the aftermath of losing their family member. “To say it has been hard is an understatement,” says Vines. “I still grieve everyday.”

To push through the grieving, Vines penned a book (see sidebar) where he tells of the family’s journey through shock, denial, grief, anger, confusion and apathy. The family hopes their story can help others who face similar tragedies to survive their own struggles.

“We’ve learned how to handle it as best we can. The grief is not as acute now, but it’s still there. It’s more of a dull ache, but there is still a hole where Kelsey should be.”

“I’ve had to come to terms with the fact that I can’t rewind life prior to that moment and change the outcome,” Vine’s wife Becky adds. “You just try to move forward.”

children, that the event is in no way tied to their behavior and that they are not responsible. She also explains that children often grieve in spurts. “Their mind cannot tolerate the emotions for long,” she says.

“Just because they aren’t crying all the time doesn’t mean that they are not grieving.” Grief and loss can also cause children to regress to a former stage of development. “Often, they revert back to a stage of life where they felt comfortable,” she says. “It is a key sign of a child under trauma and is very normal.”

Lastly, Reynolds advises parents not to lie to children about what has happened, no matter how uncomfortable. Instead provide honest answers and avoid euphemisms or vague terms (such as telling children that a loved one who died “went away”). “Often trying to shield a child from death just adds more confusion,” she adds.

Coping With Grief Serving approximately 3,000 children, youth and adults each year, Calm Waters Center for Children and Families has a mission to help children and their families cope with grief caused by death, divorce or other significant loss. At Calm Waters, children find a safe and supportive place to share their feelings and experiences in a group of peers who have all experienced similar loss. “Support groups can help remove feelings of isolation and can help children of all ages to understand that their feelings are normal,” says Maribeth Govin, Program Director. “It can help children to understand that feelings can be managed and they can learn good coping skills from other children.”

The most effective coping skills vary greatly depending on the child’s age and developmental stage. From preschoolers to teenagers, Reynolds and the staff of Calm Waters share some tips for guiding your child through grief and loss.

Grief as a Part of Life

Calm Waters

Change, loss and grief are an unavoidable part of life. Whether it’s a death, divorce or natural disaster, dealing with the emotions brought on by grief and loss can be difficult at every age.

Calm Waters helps children and families in their grief journey caused by death, divorce or other significant loss. For more than 20 years, Calm Waters has provided support groups for grief and divorce for children ages 3-18, as well as adult support groups, school-based grief and loss groups, and parenting through divorce seminars.

Vickie Reynolds has been a marriage and family counselor for more than 20 years, specializing in child development. In her practice in northwest Oklahoma City, Reynolds has helped many families like the Vines.

Reynolds urges parents to help children to cope with loss, not to protect them from the grief and difficult emotions that may follow.

“The methods that children learn for coping with loss and grief form in early childhood and continue throughout life,” Reynolds explains.

She stresses that it is important to clarify, especially for young

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | October 2011

Creating New Traditions is a one-day workshop held during the holiday season for families that have experienced a death. The next workshop will be held on Wednesday, November 30 from 6:30-8pm. For more information and to register, call 841-4800.

For more information about the support groups and programs offered by Calm Waters, visit www.calmwaters.org.

Young Children

Tragedy and Trust: Can You Still Trust God After Losing a Child?

“When children at this age experience a death of a loved one, it can cause confusion. They can be ultra-sensitive, where things that haven’t bothered them before will suddenly be a problem,” explains Barbara Butner, Executive Director of Calm Waters. “ It causes them to have trouble in their regular routines and they might also demonstrate a regression in behavior.”

Reynolds suggests engaging in play therapy. “Kids don’t know how to express what they’re feeling, so it’s easier for them to act out scenarios through play,” she says. “Whether you use dolls or building blocks, you can gain insight into how they’re feeling through how they play.”

By Thom Vines with John Michael Vestal (AuthorHouse, $13.74).

To work through his grieving, Vines penned the story of his 18-year-old daughter Kelsey’s tragic accident. Joined by Kelsey’s former boyfriend, John Michael Vestal, Vines tells of the family’s journey through the loss of a loved one.

Find more titles at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/october-2011.

Other tips for young children: • Give them perspective. Explain the factors behind what happened to help give them some historical perspective and an understanding that the same death or disaster is unlikely to happen to them.

• Ask them what they think most kids are scared of. Whatever they reply will give you insight into their biggest concerns.

“Especially in the face of death or natural disaster, don’t say ‘it won’t happen’ to your child because they saw that it just did,” Reynolds cautions. “Instead, talk specifically about how you are working to keep them safe.”

• Provide consistency. A routine “can provide reassurance and security, as well as a sense of normalcy,” explains Govin.

• Keep it simple. Children this age don’t understand the permanence of death, so don’t try to over-explain. Keep it honest and straightforward.

School Age Children Children at this age may feel that they’re the cause of the death, divorce or loss. “They may feel that they weren’t ‘good enough’ or that the loss is happening to them as punishment,” Govin explains.

Other tips for older children:

Tweens & Teens “Teens are experiencing a tougher environment at school and they’re under lots of social and academic pressure,” Reynolds says. “Then to add in stress at home from a death or divorce and often their grief turns into anger or sadness.”

Tips for helping teens deal with grief: • Understand the coping behaviors. “The main thing that teens do in response to stress is to become very negative and irritable and it’s hard for parents to acknowledge that as grief,” says Reynolds.

• Know who you are dealing with. Reynolds explains that teen boys often turn grief into anger. “In our society, males are not given permission to cry for fear of being called a ‘sissy.’ Conversely, girls convert anger into sadness, as it’s not culturally acceptable for them to express anger or hostility.”

• Keep talking. Reynolds recommends trying different approaches to get them talking until you hit the source of their emotional turmoil.

Once identified, take the appropriate steps to start dealing with emotions in a healthy way.

• Look for meaning. Govin says that children at this age may still be confused about the loss. ”Especially if the loss was another teen or a parent, they may struggle with the unfairness of it,” she explains.

“Work with the teen to find some meaning behind the event, if possible.”

• Limit exposure. “When visiting the hospital, prepare the child for what someone in the hospital will look like and what types of medical equipment might be attached to them,” Reynolds says. “Make the visit brief—10 minutes or less. Kids can get really overwhelmed, both at the hospital and at funeral services.”

• Listen. Reynolds reminds us that Facebook Reader Feedback: children of this age often just want to MetroFamily recently asked our readers to express their feelings, and parents and weigh in on how they recommend helping caregivers need to read between the a child to deal with grief: lines. “Remember that we are teaching young children how to cope,” Reynolds “I know when we have had deaths in our says. “If they’re asking for sympathy, family, it worked best to just be honest give it to them.” with my children about it. We let them go to the funeral and see the person so they • Share. When they’re ready to talk, could better understand what was going share stories about the loved one and on.”—Jenny D. do things to commemorate the person.

“Don’t be afraid to explore these feelings “Answer only the questions she asks—she and memories,” Reynolds urges. “It will let you know what information she can actually be comforting to children. needs. I find that children rarely grieve It’s important not to deny the child’s such a loss for a long period or with great feelings or to inadvertently make emotion. They get that life goes on more them feel like they need to hold these than we adults get it!” —Kim T feelings in.” “ I lost my Dad when my son was 3 yrs • Communicate with teachers. Reynolds old. I was very honest with him, answered suggests letting teachers know what the his questions, told him it was ok to be sad, child is going through and what types that I was sad too. Through this honesty, of behaviors you are observing at home. he felt like he could be honest about his “It’s not uncommon for grades to drop,” feelings and come to us whenever he she says. “They may not do as well as needed to. I also wasn't worried when I before, but they will bounce back.” was feeling emotional because he knew it was a normal part of loss.” —Joy H.

Emerging from Grief Vines acknowledges the time it takes to deal with a significant loss. “[With loss,] the status quo has been destroyed, and one either emerges from the grief stronger or weaker.

For us, we emerged stronger, but it was not quick and was far from easy.”

In addition to writing their book, Vines and his family have found meaning and closure by setting up a memorial scholarship in Kelsey’s honor. “Don’t focus on the loss,” Vines concludes. “Focus on the years that you did have together. Those memories are with us and will be with us every day.”

Reynolds says that both children and adults can emerge from grief with stronger character and better coping skills, ultimately becoming more caring, empathetic and compassionate.

“Many children and adults who survive through loss have a keen understanding of the gift that life is.” Reynolds concludes. “They often have more purpose and direction in their lives. Just remember to give yourself and your child time.”

Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Focus on Education Science Fair: Procedures, Hypotheses and Materials! Oh My!

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oes the mere mention of the impending Science Fair strike fear in your heart? Trust me—it’s really not that bad. With a positive approach and planning, helping your child complete a science fair project can be a valuable and fun learning experience.

The Scientific Method Science fair projects are all about the scientific method: Ask a question, research the question, make an educated guess on the outcome, test your guess, analyze your data and deliver your results.

most. The question you come up with will generate your purpose. Although project websites are a great springboard for ideas, try to refrain from printing directions for a project that tell you what the outcome of your project will be. This approach discourages investigative learning and defeats the purpose of experimentation.

2.

Student requirements may vary based on the age and grade of your child, but the basic method stays the same.

1.

Start with the question. Basic science projects begin with some type of question about which the student wants an answer. Have a discussion with your child and brainstorm a list of possibilities. Do some coats keep you warmer than others? What type of cup keeps hot chocolate hot? How does the weight of an object affect its speed?

Generate a list of questions, then, have your child select one that interests him

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Test the question. How can you effectively test your question? For example, if you want to find out what type of cup keeps drinks warm longest, you could use a mug, a plastic cup, a Styrofoam cup and a coffee thermos.

Ask your child to predict the outcome before the experiment is performed. This is the hypothesis. “If I test___, then___ will happen, because…”

3. Gather your materials. This list of items needed to perform the project comes from your question and hypothesis. Be inclusive and specific; include specific measurements if necessary.

4.

Find more tips about science fair projects at www. metrofamilymagazine. com/science-fair.

How will you perform the experiment?

Your procedures are a step-by-step explanation of how you are trying to

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | October 2011

find the answer to your question. Ask your child to pretend as if he is calling his best friend and telling him how to do this project. Record the directions, and have your child write them out specifically; it’s all about the details at this point! Then, perform the experiment, or for multi-day, ongoing projects, set up the experiment.

5.

Record your results. Record your results in a journal, graphs, charts, photos, diagrams or illustrations.

6.

In conclusion. What was learned in this experiment? For example, “I learned that a Styrofoam cup has the best insulation

because it contains tiny air pockets.”

A conclusion simply states what was learned through experimentation, and it should directly answer the purpose question.

There are many websites offering project ideas, and it’s nice to refine your search to your child’s specific interests. Be careful to select a project that is age-appropriate for your child. Remember, this is your child’s schoolwork; you shouldn’t be shouldering the work for him.

Tips for a Successful Project • Find a topic that interests your child.

Chemistry? Environmental studies?

Encourage your child to come up with an original purpose. Avoid repeating the same project that his sister did two years ago.

• Consider real-life science principles, to create a purpose question, like the example we used of testing what type of cup keeps a drink hot the longest.

• Plan ahead. Waiting until the night before creates stress for everyone. Stick to the timeline the teacher has provided or have your child come up with his own. Also, take into consideration that some projects require more time than others (i.e. plant growth projects).

• It doesn’t have to be perfect. A neat presentation on the backboard is a plus, but perfectly placed letters aren’t the most important part of the process.

• Ask questions. If you are unsure about a particular step, email the teacher for clarification.

• Plan properly. Create a list of materials needed, and plan ahead. No one wants to be running around the city looking for a certain type of sandpaper the night before it’s due.

Julie Dill is a National Board Certified Teacher from Oklahoma City and mother of two.

October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Real Moms of the Metro Meet Jennifer Stringham: Wife, Mother & Student

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Photo by: Aimee Adams | aimeeadamsphoto.com

ennifer Stringham wears many hats in her busy life—mom, administrative assistant at a local university, Air Force spouse and grad student. Since coming to Oklahoma in 2007, Jennifer has earned one degree, is nearly finished with a Masters degree and is raising her children Katherine (age 15), Emma-Rose (age 12) and Sam (age 8). Here’s a look into what makes this 39-year old tick.

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

I wish I could spend every Saturday morning going to garage sales with my mom and sister.

What are you passionate about?

My family, my education and politics…in that order.

How has motherhood changed you?

I never understood how all-encompassing motherhood would be. It’s simply amazing that one tiny human being placed in my arms gave me a feeling of connection to all the mothers in my family before me.

Motherhood colored the way I looked at everything; I became more fair and just, more accepting and less critical, more passionate and protective.

How do you banish stress?

Well, it isn’t particularly exciting, but I watch mindless television surrounded by my family. Don’t let that comment fool you; it’s the cuddling and the conversation that happens during that time that I crave the most.

What (or who) inspires you?

As I’ve grown older, I have come to have a greater understanding of my grandmothers.

Quick Facts About Jennifer: 1. What are 5 words that describe you? Determined, passionate, loyal, intelligent, and creative.

2. What’s on your playlist?

Dixie Chicks, Pink, Joe Ely, lots of old country and 80’s music!

3. Coffee or tea? Neither…I’m a Diet Coke kind of girl!

4. What’s always in your handbag? Lip balm, a nail file and $10 “mad money” for emergencies.

5. What’s your guilty pleasure?

Pedicures.

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The Stringham family: Jennifer Katherine (age 15), Emma-Rose (age 12) and Sam (age 8), Jennifer and husband John.

They lived completely different lives, and yet it is in studying their lives that I’ve come to realize that the strength I have comes from them. I learned that there are many more ties that connect us than divide us.

Along with your job as a mom, what do you do?

I am the Administrative Assistant in the Political Science department at the University of Central Oklahoma. In addition to that paying gig, I also am a graduate student pursuing a Masters in Public Administration at UCO. What do you like most about your job?

I love the people I work with and the students we serve. The academic environment at UCO is exciting and rewarding, especially since I get to watch students catch the vision of their educations and get excited about learning.

What is on your wish list?

I want to be able to sit in the porch swing at the end of a long life together with my husband and watch our grandchildren playing in the back yard.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | October 2011

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of the two college degrees I have earned since relocating to Oklahoma in 2007. I have earned a BA in Political Science and will receive my MA in Public Administration in December. I am proud of the fact that I have accomplished this while being a full-time mother and an Air Force spouse.

What motivates you?

I am motivated the most by the thought of failure. I set my sights high but don’t want anyone to see me fail!

How do you find balance in your life?

I achieve balance in my life by taking an appropriate amount of time for all the little parts of my life. I make sure I take time out every day for just me. I spend time with my children and I make sure that John and I have a regular date night. I attend church every week and I visit with friends. Each of these things helps me to remind who I am and what I am trying to accomplish.

Advice for other moms?

My mom told me once to treat each moment

with each child as if it was the first, last and only time you would get. That advice has helped me to cherish my role as a mother.

What brought you to Oklahoma?

I’m originally from Austin, Texas. We came to Oklahoma City in 2007 when the Air Force decided that this is where we should be. Home is where the Air Force sends you!

What’s the biggest challenge in your life?

How to incorporate more exercise in my life—right now there isn’t any and there never seems to be time for it.

How do you help others?

I try to do for others what feels right at the time. I often look for inspiration from the Spirit to see opportunities to serve.

Most often it is within the confines of my neighborhood or circle of friends; but you can find me offering my help when it is needed.

What is your parenting style?

I try to let my children make their own choices and understand the consequences to those choices. Most of the time the consequences of the world are far more painful than any I could impose. I have worked hard to be the kind of mom that my children want to share things with. So far it seems to be working for us.

Favorite quote or advice about motherhood?

Never wake a sleeping baby and enjoy every moment!

Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

Did you know?

There are more than 8,000 children in Oklahoma’s foster care system. That’s enough to fill up the Grand Auditorium in the Warren Theatre more than 11 times!

Be a Bridge Resource Family.

Call 1-800-376-9729 or visit www.okbridgefamilies.com

October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Exploring Oklahoma Shawnee’s Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art

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hat do you get when you cross an artistically-gifted Benedictine monk, the Oklahoma land run and a desire to bring the world’s art and history to a new frontier homeland? You get the treasure that is the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art in Shawnee, one of the oldest museums in the state. The museum features works you’ll find in art history books, artwork and artifacts that would be at home in any of the world’s prestigious museums.

Answering His Calling Robert Francis Xavier Gerrer, a talented artist and musician, immigrated with his family from Launtenbach, France, to Missouri in 1872. Gerrer headed to Oklahoma when he learned of the 1891 land rush.

After developing a friendship with Abbot Thomas Duperou, Superior of the Benedictine community at Sacred Heart Mission, Oklahoma, Gerrer joined the priesthood. By 1892, Gerrer became Brother Gregory, his religious name after receiving his Benedictine habit.

Bringing the World to Shawnee Recognizing his artistic talent, a visiting abbot offered to send Brother Gregory to Europe to study art. During a 1903 mission

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trip to the Holy Land, the now-ordained Father Gregory was given a small Egyptian scarab with a goose hieroglyph—the symbol for “A.” This artifact was the beginning of an extensive collection.

Father Gregory realized that his work and study of art allowed him to travel to places that many others may never get a chance to experience, so he set out on a mission to bring the world to Oklahoma. So, as he traveled the world, Father Gregory brought back the history and art of distant places.

The result is a museum-quality collection so large and diverse (over 6,000 items) that only five to 10 percent can be displayed at any one time, according to Dane Pollei, Director and Chief Curator of the museum.

World-Class Exhibits Located on the campus of St. Gregory’s University, the museum opened in 1919 and includes artifacts and artwork from Father Gregory’s extensive travels— including items from Egypt, Greece, Rome and Asia.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | October 2011

“Our Egyptian collection is considered by many experts to be one of the best between Chicago and Los Angeles,” said Pollei, Haven taken tours of museums in these areas, I agree. How amazing to see Egyptian artifacts unearthed from 6,000 years ago and imagine the hands that molded them.

Of course, what is an Egyptian exhibit without mummies and tomb artifacts?

No disappointment here. Not something I expected as part of a permanent display in the heartland—which was exactly Father Gregory’s goal, according to his biographical display.

The Egyptian exhibit is not the only collection that gives the Mabee-Gerrer Museum its “Oklahoma treasure” status. As Pollei points out, most medieval collections are only found in Europe, but the MabeeGerrer boasts Medieval, Baroque and Renaissance works. Also, according to Pollei,

Mabee-Gerrer is the only museum in the state to have art on permanent loan from the Arthur M. Sackler Foundation, a renowned non-profit art institution in New York City.

Father Gregory’s goal to educate is alive and well at Mabee-Gerrer. Displays have written descriptions that explain the purpose and origin of each artifact. Everything from the shrunken heads of early South American tribes (the kids seem to find these especially fascinating) to Father Gregory’s own art (a larger-than-life, original, portrait of Pope Pius X painted by Gerrer that won a medal at the 1904 World’s Fair) to contemporary art is exhibited.

The museum also offers a number of outreach programs to continue Father Gregory’s educational objective. These programs include art camps, classes and internships. Volunteer opportunities are also available.

Karen Mitchell, a lifelong resident of the Oklahoma City metro area, lives in Edmond with her husband Mark, teenage son, Ryan, and one spoiled Welsh corgi. Daughter Megan attends OSU in Stillwater.

Plan your visit:

Times are tou think youand shw Times are tough to ndhav o think you should to ndwith out what you with your teeth. afraid.

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The Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art 1900 W MacArthur Dr, Shawnee Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00am-5:00pm; Sunday 1:00-5:00pm Admission $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 students with valid ID and children ages 5-17. Free for children under age 5.

405-878-5300 or www.mgmoa.org

afraid. We provid den

Take advantage of the downloadable resources (www.mgmoa.org/ family-activities) before you visit: •

The Family Guide includes a treasure hunt, tips for exploring artwork and an art interpretation activity.

•

The Self-guided tour download offers museum etiquette tips plus background information on some of the museum’s more popular works.

•

After your visit, check out the Art Projects link to make sculptures and projects at home based on the museum’s collections.

Current and upcoming exhibits: Through October 23 Magical Mystery Masks: The Art of G. Patrick Riley features an exhibit of masks by this Oklahoma artist and art educator.

November 4-20 Kids at Heart: MGMoA Regional 2012 features an exhibit of art created by the creative and talented hands of local young aspiring artists.

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December 9-January 22, 2012 The Nativity: Etchings from the 16th and 17th Centuries features early etchings depicting the birth of Christ by artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Rembrandt and Albrech Durer.

October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | October 2011

National Weather Festival The annual National Weather Festival highlights the many weather-related organizations and activities in Central Oklahoma.

Scheduled for Saturday, October 29 from 9am-1pm, visitors can view the National Weather Center’s premier facilities, including the forecast operation areas.

The event includes hourly weather balloon launches with local television meteorologists, childrens' activities, storm research vehicle displays, a Storm Chaser Car Show and more.

The event is free to the public and is held at the National Weather Center (120 David L. Boren Blvd., located at the corner of Highway 9 and Jenkins Ave in Norman.)

For more information, visit www. nationalweatherfestival.org.

Photo credit: James Murnan, NOAA

Festival on the Green Take your family downtown to see the Myriad Garden’s incredible transformation, including new landscaping, sculptures and a children’s park. Join the Myriad Gardens to celebrates the official grand opening on Saturday, October 15 with the Festival on the Green.

The Festival on the Green kicks off at 10 a.m. with an opening ceremony and appearance by Mayor Cornett.

Participants will also enjoy free admission to the Myriad Botanical Gardens, a dog show, family activities and more. For more information, visit www.okcfestivalonthegreen. com.

Photo courtesy of Myriad Gardens/Devon Energy.

Max Westheimer Aviation Family Festival The 5th Annual Aviation Festival will be held at Max Westheimer Airport (1700 Lexington Avenue, Norman) in Norman on Saturday, October 15 from 9am-4pm. The celebration will include an open house, aircraft displays, tours of the control tower, children’s activity area, EAA Young Eagles Flights and a aerospace exploration hangar for children ages 4 - 12.

The event is free and free parking is available.

For more information, call 405-325-7233 or visit http://airport.ou.edu.

Photo courtesy of the University of Oklahoma.

WorldFest Just in time for the holidays, Oklahoma Citybased World Neighbors kicks off their eighth annual WorldFest international shopping market on Saturday, October 29 from 9am6pm at the historic Oklahoma City Farmers Market in downtown Oklahoma City. This highly anticipated international shopping event will feature thousands of gorgeous items. All the products at WorldFest come from fair-trade sources, guaranteeing that artisans receive a fair wage for their work.

Admission is $7, FREE for children 12 and under. Purchase tickets in advance at www. wn.org/events or pay upon arrival. For more information, visit www.wn.org.

Photo courtesy of World Neighbors.

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Quick Reference Reference Weekly Events Quick American Banjo Museum 9 E Sheridan Ave, OKC 604-2793, www.banjomuseum.org City Arts Center Fair Park, 3000 Pershing Blvd, OKC 951-0000, www.cityartscenter.org Fine Arts Institute of Edmond 27 E Edwards, Edmond 340-4481, www.edmondfinearts.com Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art 555 Elm Ave, Norman 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum 13th & Shartel, OKC 235-4458, www.oklahomaheritage.com Myriad Botanical Gardens 301 W Reno, OKC 297-3995, www.myriadgardens.com National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org Oklahoma Aquarium 300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks 918-296-FISH, www.okaquarium.org OKC Museum of Art 415 Couch Dr, OKC 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com OKC National Memorial 620 N Harvey, OKC 235-3313, www.oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org OKC Zoo 2101 NE 50th St, OKC 424-3344, www.okczoo.com Oklahoma Children’s Theatre 2501 N Blackwelder, OKC 606-7003, www.oklahomachildrenstheatre.org Oklahoma History Center 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr., OKC 522-5248, www.oklahomahistorycenter.org Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman 325-4712, www.snomnh.ou.edu Science Museum Oklahoma 2100 NE 52nd St, OKC 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org Do you have an event for our calendar?

Email Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com All phone numbers are area code 405 unless otherwise noted. Information should be verified before attending events as details can change after press date.

FREE Norman Sooner Mall Outreach Story Time is an interactive story time held outside Sears at Sooner Mall for ages 9 & under. Tuesdays, 10am.

FREE Admission at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art on Tuesdays. 10am-5pm. Activities include Art Adventures for children ages 3-5 with adult (10:30am).

Family Fun Night at JumpZone (SW 104th & Western) includes 2 adults, 2 children, 1 large pizza, 2 liter pop for $25. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:30-8pm. 200-1691, www.jumpzoneparty.com.

Toddler Time at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History Discovery Room includes fun & educational activities for ages 18 months-3 years.FREE with paid museum admission. Mondays & Thursdays, 1:30-2pm.

Toddling Through Nature at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is a nature walk on museum grounds with activities specially designed ages 18 months-3 years. One caregiver for every two children is requested. Tuesdays & Fridays, 10:30-10:55am.

Trotting Though Nature at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is a nature walk for ages 4-9 with caregiver to discover plants & animals on the museum grounds (some areas do not have sidewalks.)

Tuesdays & Fridays, 11-11:25am.

FREE Tuesday Noon Concert Series at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art feature 30-minute concerts performed by OU music students & faculty. Admission to the museum is FREE on Tuesdays.

It’s Feeding Time! at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History Discovery Room allows children to observe some local reptiles, amphibians & fish during their feeding time & learn more about these Oklahoma animals. FREE with paid museum admission.

Tuesdays, 1:30pm; Saturdays, 11:30am.

FREE Wide-Open Wednesdays at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum offer FREE admission to the public Wednesdays through 11/16.

FREE Tours of the Governor’s Mansion available the 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month. 10am-3pm. 5681292, www.ok.gov/about/Mansion_Page.html.

FREE Children’s Storytime at Quail Springs Barnes & Noble (13800 N May) every Wednesday & Saturday, 11am. 755-1155, www.barnesandnoble.com.

Discovery Time at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History’s Discovery Room includes interactive, hands-on activities with stories, crafts & touchable specimens. FREE with paid museum admission.

Wednesdays & Saturdays, 2pm; Sundays, 2:30pm.

FREE Wednesday Night at the Movies at the Downtown Library. Held every Wednesday, 6-8pm.

231-8650.

FREE Thursday Noon Tunes at the Downtown Library, 11:30-1pm.

Cocktails on the Skyline at the OKC Museum of Art

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features a full bar, complementary chips & salsa & live music. Thursdays through October, 5-10pm.

Unplugged After Hours at Unpluggits Playstudio invites adults only to enjoy time with friends or in quiet creation mode in the glass, ceramics & paint’n take studios. Childcare available at KidzStreet. Held the first & third Thursday of each month. 6-8pm. 340-7584, www.unpluggits.com.

The UCO Jazz Lab features performances each Friday & Saturday at 8pm. $7 adults, $5 age 12 & under. 3597989, www.ucojazzlab.com.

FREE Children’s Storytime at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expressway) each Saturday, 10:15am. 8422900, www.fullcirclebooks.com.

FREE Children’s Story Time at Edmond’s Best of Books, Saturdays, 11-11:30am. 340-9202, www. bestofbooksedmond.com.

FREE Crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May, OKC), Ages 3 & up. Saturdays, 11am-3pm. 8588778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

All-Star Bowling for Differently-Abled Individuals at AMF Yukon Lanes (500 E Main, Yukon) invites differently-abled individuals, their families & friends to participate in an afternoon of bowling. $8 per week for 3 games & shoes. Saturdays, 1pm. 354-2516.

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art. Create art inspired by the Museum’s collection, exhibitions, & special occasions. FREE with paid admission.

Saturdays, 1-4pm.

FREE Green Earth Gang for ages 9-13 works on conservation projects in Martin Park. Saturdays 2-5pm.

755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park.

Ongoing Events Through Oct 9 The Importance of Being Earnest at the Poteet Theatre features Oscar Wilde’s classic tale following Jack & Algernon as they discover the importance of being earnest. $20. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. 609-1023, www.poteettheatre.com.

Oct 10-Nov 17 FREE Movement Without Limitations sponsored by Devon Energy at the City Arts Center (3000 General Pershing) provides a six week dance program, held each Monday, for adults & children with blindness or visual impairment. Children 8-18 years may bring a sighted buddy. Classes are FREE & ballet shoes are provided for first time students. Call to register. Adults, 4:30-5:15pm; Children (8-18 years), 5:30-6:15pm. 9510000, www.cityartscenter.org.

Oct 13-Jan 6 Marking Time: Voyage to Vietnam at the GaylordPickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum features artifacts from the troopship General Nelson M. Walker.

OCTOBER S M T W T F S

Through Oct 14 The Ugly Duckling presented by the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre (2501 N Blackwelder) is adapted from the Hans Christian Anderson story about a little duck who just doesn’t fit in. $9 adults, $6 children 2-12.

Wednesdays & Fridays, 10-11am; Saturdays & Sundays, 2-3pm. 951-0011, www.oklahomachildrenstheatre.com.

Oct 14-Nov 27 Cowboy Arts Association 46th Annual Exhibition & Sale at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum showcases over 100 paintings, drawings & sculptures.

Oct 14-Jan 8 Traditional Cowboy Arts Association 13th Annual Exhibition & Sale at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum showcases the work of association members to preserve the arts of saddlemaking, bit & spur making, silversmithing & rawhide braiding and the role of these traditional crafts in cowboy culture in the American West.

Through Oct 16 Passages at the OKC Museum of Art presents the world-premier of an interactive, non-sectarian traveling exhibition that tells the dramatic story of the capturing, preservation, translation & new discoveries of the Bible.

Tickets are $19.95, $12 for members, $11.95 for children ages 6-18, FREE for children 5 and under. Price includes museum admission.

Oct 22-Dec 30 No Heaven Awaits Us at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is an exhibition of contemporary Chinese photography & video.

Through Oct 23 Magical Mystery Masks: The Art of G. Patrick Riley at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee) features the work of Oklahoma artist Patrick Riley. 878-5300, www.mgmoa.org.

Through Nov 13 The Art of the Tool Exhibit at Science Museum Oklahoma combines form with function by examining the tools that creative professionals use. FREE with paid museum admission.

Through Nov 20 The Bowie Knife: Icon of American Character at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum looks at the history, art & legacy of the Bowie Knife.

Through Dec 30 Robert Rauschenberg: Prints from Universal Limited Art Editions, 1962-2008 at the Fred Jones Jr.

Museum of Art examines the extensive collaboration between Robert Rauschenberg & the fine art print publisher, Universal Limited Art Editions.

Through 2011 The Uncanny Adventures of Okie Cartoonists at the Oklahoma History Center explores how Oklahomans have played a major role in the evolution of comic books, comic strips, & editorial cartoons.

FREE Oklahoma City! Sooner or Later on the second floor of City Hall (200 N Walker) presents the history of city government from 1889 to the present. MondayFriday 8am-5pm. 297-2391.

Poodles & Pastries & Other Important Matters: New Paintings by Franco Mondini-Ruiz at the OKC Museum of Art features works by the San Antonio & New Yorkbased artist.

Through Jan 8 Cowboys & Indians Revisited at Science Museum Oklahoma features artwork that focuses on the rich heritage of Oklahoma’s frontier & how the dynamic between cowboys & Indians forever changed the landscape of the state.

Wolf to Woof: The Story of Dogs at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is an interactive exhibition on the history & evolution of dogs.

Ghost Ranch & The Faraway Nearby at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum features the work of fine-art photographer Craig Varjabedian as he portrays the longtime home of Georgia O’Keeffe in this traveling exhibition.

Through May 2012 Pickin’ & Grinnin’: Roy Clark, Hee Haw & Country Humor at the Oklahoma History Center celebrates Oklahoma’s ties to the beloved television show.

Through Jun 2012 The Return of Elegance at the Oklahoma History Center features 29 evening gowns worn by Oklahoma women at inaugural balls & other special occasions as well as footwear & handbags covering the period of 1912-1985.

Visit www.metrofamilymagazine. com/calendar today for more fun fall events!

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Metropolitan Library System www.metrolibrary.org

Oklahoma Driven: Cars, Collectors & the Birth of the Oklahoma Highway Commission at the Oklahoma History Center spotlights the exciting cars & new roads that accelerated the shaping of a young state.

Faded Elegance: Photographs of Havana by Michael Eastman at the OKC Museum of Art features 29 largescale photographs that evoke the nostalgia & wealth of a bygone era.

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Belle Isle.................5501 N Villa...........843-9601 Bethany................3510 N Mueller.........789-8363 Capitol Hill............ 334 SW 26th...........634-6308 Choctaw.................2525 Muzzy...........390-8418 Del City..................4509 SE 15th...........672-1377 Downtown.............300 Park Ave.......... 231-8650 Edmond............... 10 S Boulevard......... 341-9282 Midwest City......... 8143 E Reno........... 732-4828 Ralph Ellison....... 2000 NE 23rd...........424-1437 Southern Oaks....6900 S Walker.........631-4468 The Village........... 10307 N Penn.......... 755-0710 Warr Acres...........5901 NW 63rd...........721-2616 Harrah...............1930 N Church Ave.....454-2001 Jones.......................111 E Main............399-5471 Luther......................310 NE 3rd............ 277-9967 Nicoma Park...... 2240 Overholser........769-9452 Wright Library.... 2101 Exchange.........235-5035

Pioneer Library System www.pls.lib.ok.us

Blanchard............... 300 N Main............ 485-2275 McLoud....................133 N Main............964-2960 Moore.................... 225 S Howard.......... 793-5100 Newcastle............. 705 NW Tenth.......... 387-5076 Noble........................204 N 5th..............872-5713 Norman.................225 N Webster......... 701-2600 Purcell.................... 919 N Ninth............ 527-5546 Shawnee............101 N Philadelphia......275-6353 Tecumseh............114 N Broadway........598-5955

October Daily Events 1-2 FREE Annual Guthrie Art & Wine Festival in downtown Guthrie is two days of live music, art, drama, music & interactive exhibits for children. 260-2345, www. guthrieescape.com.

WW2 Weapons & Tactics Demonstration at Fort Gibson Historic Site (907 N Garrison, Fort Gibson) demonstrates the US Army Infantry during WW2. $3 adults, $2.50 seniors, $1 students & military with ID. Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, 9am-2pm. 918-478-2669, www.okhistory.org.

October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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2 • Sunday

features world renowned fiddle sensation, Kyle Dillingham. $20. 7pm. 307-9320, www.pasnorman.org.

FREE Schlegel Bicycles 4th Annual SchlegelFest at Schlegel Bicycles (900 N Broadway) includes pumpkin decorating, face painting, bike obstacle course & bike safety lessons for kids. Bicycle clinics for all levels.

Noon-5pm. 232-4040, www.schlegelbicycles.com.

2-7

FREE Evolution of Rock at the Norman Public Library features Norman musician Gregg Standridge as he leads a workshop exploring the history of rock 'n roll music for students in grades 4-12. 1-4pm.

3 • Monday

FREE Woofstock at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History celebrates the opening of Wolf to Woof: the Story of Dogs, with outdoor demonstrations for visitors & their dogs, Puppy Play Area, dog-themed crafts, story times, auditorium shows & on-site adoption center from Second Chance Animal Sanctuary. 1-5pm.

OKC Philharmonic Discovery Family Series: Pirates on the High Seas presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features music from pirate movies, pirate operas & more for ages 4-13. Pre-concert activities at 1pm including Instrument Playground & Conductor’s Corner. $9.

2-2:45pm. 842-5387, www.okcphilharmonic.org.

FREE Metropolitan Libraries host The Bonham Revue Bluegrass Band at a variety of libraries. See website or call 606-3833 for more information.

Culural Arts Series: Imani Winds at OCCC Bruce Owen Theater features a quintet known for genreblurring collaborations. $10-$22. 7pm. 682-7576, www.occc.edu/cas.

3rd Annual Homeschool Day at the Oklahoma History Center invites homeschool groups & family learners to a special hand-on activity day to explore Oklahoma’s unique past. FREE for kids. 10am-2pm.

Oklahoma Community Orchestra Concert at Oklahoma Christian University’s Hardeman Auditorium features special guest, Edgar Cruz. 7:30pm. 425-5530, www.okorchestra.org.

13th Annual YMCA Golf Classic at Quail Creek Golf & Country Club (3501 Quail Creek) benefits the YMCA. Shotgun Start, Net, Best-Ball format. 1pm. 297-7771, www.ymcaokc.org.

5 • Wednesday

Cleveland County CROP Walk to Stop Hunger at Norman’s Food & Shelter Inc. (104 W Comanche) benefits Norman’s Food & Shelter for Friends. Entry fee is a jar of peanut butter or a can of tuna to be donated to local food pantries. Includes FREE facepainting, post-walk cookout & entertainment.

Registration, 1:30pm, Send-Off, 2pm. 620-1305, www. clevlandcountycropwalk.org.

4 • Tuesday

Taste of Bricktown at the Bricktown Ballpark includes food, music & family entertainment including Rumble, the Thunder Girls, Cooper & Rouby from the RedHawks, Derek & the Ice Girls from the Barons & more. $20 in advance, $30 at the door, kids 12 & under FREE. 3-6pm. www.welcometobricktown.com.

Science of SMO Maintenance at Science Museum Oklahoma invites guests to learn about the science behind keeping a great museum clean & running. 9am5pm. FREE with paid museum admission.

Winter Wind Concert Series: Horseshoe Road at Norman’s Performing Arts Studio (200 S Jones)

Lean & Green at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum encourages participants to re-learn the concept of waste, how to reduce energy use and other eco-friendly practices. 10am-5pm. www. okmuseums.org.

FREE Smart Start Central Oklahoma Early Bird Classes for parents at Western Heights Academy (8005 SW 44) focus on the development of early reading, math & social skills in children ages 0-5 to prepare children for school. 6-7:30pm. 350-3433, www. earlybirdsok.com. Also held: 10/6, 10/13 (Del City High School), 10/15 (Del City High School & Putnam City Center), 10/18 (Putnam City Center).

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FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square Mall’s Lego Store features a new model every month.

Held the first Tuesday of the month. Quantities are limited. For ages 6-14. 5pm. 840-9993, www.Stores.

Lego.com.

FREE Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

Student Jazz Ensemble Concert at UCO Jazz Lab (100 E 5, Edmond) features live music as well as food & beverages available from Hideaway Pizza. $7. 7pm.

359-7989, www.ucojazzlab.com. Also held 10/10, 24.

FREE Fall Concert at Mitch Park in Edmond features music in an outdoor setting. 6:30pm. 359-4630, edmondok.com/parks/rec. Also held: 10/9, 16, 23 & 30.

FREE Quail Springs Mall Family Night includes entertainment, prizes, crafts & more. 5:30-7:30pm.

755-6530, www.quailspringsmall.com.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | October 2011

Esther Women Luncheon featuring speaker Jeannie McCullough at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church (222 NW 15) creates meaningful dialogue & strengthens fellowship for Christian women as they navigate family, work & spiritual fulfillment. Held the first Wednesday of each month. Preregister. $20. 11:30am-1pm. 232-1371, www.estherwomenokc.org.

5-28 FREE Mamaste Yoga at the Downtown Library for new mothers & babies 5 weeks to 5 months promotes exercise while socializing with other new mothers. 4-week session. Space is limited. Preregister.

Wednesdays, 10:15-10:50am.

6 • Thursday The Robert Cray Band at the Sooner Theatre (101 E Main, Norman) features the five-time Grammy Award winning blues & soul artist. $40 & up. 8pm. 321-9600, www.soonertheatre.org.

6-9 Tartuffe at UCO Mitchell Hall Theatre features on of the great comedies of French theatre, Moliere’s satire on religious hypocrisy. Thursday-Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. 974-3375, www.uco.edu/cfad/events.

7 • Friday FREE Teacher Appreciation Day at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History invites PreK-12 teachers & families to learn about school group programs. 10am-4pm. Also held 10/28.

The Revenger’s Tragedy—A Staged Reading presented by Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park at the Ghostlight Theatre (3110 N Walker) features an English language Jacobean revenge tragedy. For mature audiences. $5 suggested donation. 7:30-10pm. 2353700, www.oklahomashakespeare.com.

FREE Come Meet Moosa and Discover His World

at the Moore Public Library (225 S Howard, Moore) celebrates the release of Melissa Dashiell's first book, Moosa the Jingling Moose with a launch party hosted by the author & her family. Melissa will read her story every 20 minutes, includes snacks & a craft as well as door prizes. 5:30-7:30pm. 799-1801, www.melissardashiell.com.

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11 • Tuesday

Annual Mexican War Fall Encampment at the Fort Gibson Historic Site (907 N Garrison) showcases what life was like at the fort as the US geared up for war against Mexico. Friday-Saturday, 10am-5pm. 918-4782669, www.okhistory.org.

Homeschool Day at the Oklahoma Aquarium offers homeschool families & groups an opportunity to explore the aquarium at the discounted education rate.

Preregister. $7 students, $10 adults. 10am-6pm.

FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo Arts District features more than 60 artists in 17 galleries.

Friday, 6-10pm; Saturday, noon-5pm. 525-2688, www. thepaseo.com.

7-9 Operation Military Kids Weekend at Frontier City offers a discounted rate for families of deployed troops.

Details, call 744-8873. www.frontiercity.com.

8 • Saturday Oklahoma State University Football vs. Kansas at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater. Time TBA. www. okstate.com. Other home game this month: 10/29.

Scout Day at Orr Family Farm offers a 20% discount on admission for Boy & Girl Scouts in uniform. 10am9pm. 799-FARM, www.orrfamilyfarm.com. Also held: 10/29.

FREE Build & Grow Kid’s Clinics at Lowe’s stores offers kids an opportunity to complete a wooden project.

Each participant also receives an apron, goggles, a project-themed patch & a certificate of merit. 10am. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com. Also held: 10/22.

FREE Introduction to Babywearing Class at Green Bambino (5120 N Shartel) invites caregivers to learn about babywearing safety, products & techniques. 1011am. 848-2330, www.green-bambino.com.

FREE Barbie Collecting for Girls K-4 at the Blanchard Library invites young girls to bring Barbies to learn the history of this famous doll through fun activities. Preregister, space is limited. 10:30-11:30am.

9 • Sunday Rec Fest at MAC at Mitch Park in Edmond invites families to spend fall break participating in various play events and to learn about healthy habits through fitness classes, an obstacle course & more. $3. 359-4630, www.edmondok.com/parks/rec.

Fall Music Department Concert at Oklahoma Christian University Hardeman Auditorium features the Symphonic Band, Jazz Band, University Chorale, Chamber Singers & Chamber Orchestra. 2:30pm. 4255530, www.oc.edu.

Just Between Friends Consignment Sale at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds. Many items are 25% off on Friday & 50% off on Saturday. Monday-Friday, 10am-7pm; Saturday, 10am-5pm. www.norman.jbfsale. com.

Storytime Science at Science Museum Oklahoma features the museum’s performer puppeteer for storytelling at its finest. 10am & 2pm. FREE with paid admission.

12-16 The Coronation of Poppea presented by OU Opera Theatre at OU Weitzenhoffer Theater (563 Elm, Norman) is an Italian baroque opera. $17 adults, $10 students. Wednesday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm.

32504101, http://ou.edu/finearts.

12-29 Altar Boyz at Lyric at the Plaza is a musical comedy about five small-town guys who come together as a heartthrob group. Rated PG-13 for irreverent humor. $40. Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm. 524-9312, www.lyrictheatreokc.com.

14 • Friday Paper Airplane Day at Science Museum Oklahoma celebrates Chuck Yeager, who broke the sound barrier on this date in 1947. 9am-5pm. FREE with paid museum admission.

FREE Art a la Carte at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art provides live music, short films & art activity. 6-9pm.

FREE Norman’s 2nd Friday Circuit of Art is a monthly celebration of the arts connecting the downtown arts district with galleries, performance halls, & Campus Corner. Trolley service between venues available at minimal cost. 6-10pm. 360-1162, www.2ndfridaynorman.com.

FREE LIVE on the Plaza in the Plaza District (NW 16th between Classen & Penn) on the second Friday of each month includes art walk, local artists, live music & shopping. 7-11pm. www.plazadistrict.wordpress.com.

Sleep with the Sharks at the Oklahoma Aquarium.

Includes sleepover, activities, snacks & movies. $35 per person, 10% discount for members. 7pm-morning.

8th Annual ARTonTAP at the OKC Museum of Art is a beer tasting event benefitting the OKC Museum of Art’s world-class exhibitions. Showcases over 80 different beers alongside great food, music & artwork. $45 members, $50 non-members. 7:30-10:30pm.

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14-15 Cowboy Crossings at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is the kick-off event for two exhibitions showcasing the best of saddlemaking, bit & spur making, silversmithing, rawhide braiding & art.

Preregister for most activities. Friday, 10am--8pm; Saturday, 10am-11pm.

14-16 Sweet Repeats Children’s & Maternity Consignment Sale at the Edmond Armory (600 S Bryant). Selected items half-off on Sunday. Friday, 9am-6pm; Saturday, 9am-3pm; Sunday, 12-3pm. 7065712, www.sweetrepeatskidsconsignment.com.

Lazy E Home & Garden Show at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie. Friday, 10am-7pm; Saturday, 9am-7pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm. 282-RIDE, www.lazye.com.

Junior League Mistletoe Market at the Cox Convention Center. Preview party Thursday, 6-9pm ($40 in advance, $50 at the door); Friday, 10am-8pm; Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. $8 adults, $5 children 3-12 & seniors, FREE under 3. www.jloc. org. See page 10 for details.

14-22 Macbeth presented by Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park & Oklahoma City University at OCU Burg Theatre is Shakespeare’s classic tragedy. $12 adults, $7 students. Friday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. 2085227, www.oklahomashakespeare.com.

15 • Saturday 2011 Susan G. Komen Oklahoma City Race for the Cure at the AT&T Bricktown Ballpark raises funds to support the fight against breast cancer. $5 discount on advance registration. $35 adults, $25 children 17 & under. Registration, 7am; Race, 8am; Kids’ Dash, 9:45am; Survivor Ceremony, 10:15am. www. komencentralwesternok.org.

FREE Festival on the Green—Myriad Gardens Grand Re-Opening Celebration is a day-long festival featuring FREE tours of the Crystal Bridge, live music, entertainment from various musical groups & theater companies, zumba, boat races, pumpkin patch, farmers market, dog shows & more. www.okcfestivalonthegreen. com. More on page 35.

Best Friends Forever Girls Conference presented

by R & B Ministries at Harvest Life Gym (9125 SE 15, Midwest City) invites girls 10-18 & their BFFs to learn about how to make all of their relationships great.

Lunch included. $12-$20. 8am-4pm. www.bff.eventbrite. com.

FREE 5th Annual Aviation Festival at Max Westheimer Airport in Norman includes an open house, tours of the control tower, static displays, children’s activity area & remote control airplanes. 9am-4pm. http://airport.ou.edu. More on page 35.

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Walk for Life at Mitch Park in Edmond benefits the Crossroads Clinic. Includes a 5K Fun Run, a 2-mile walk & activities for young children. Participants can register online. 8:30am-12:30pm. www. crossroadsguthrie.com. Details page 12.

FREE Cloth Diaper Basics class at Green Bambino (5120 N Shartel). No purchase necessary, preregistration requested. 9-10am. 848-2330, www.greenbambino.com. Also held: 10/19, 29.

Girl Scout Workshop: Watching Wildlife for Brownies at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History includes workshop & general admission for one scout & one adult per five scouts. Preregister. $10 per scout. 10am-noon.

FREE Flat Tire Festival at Lake Thunderbird includes bike rides for all ages, inflatables, food, music, giveaways, education, helmet fittings & more to benefit youth bicycle & pedestrian programs in Norman. 10am2pm. 307-2143.

FREE 7th Annual Dee Wilder Cancer Survivors Tea at Fairview Baptist Church (1700 NE 7) features guest speaker Maril Weber, MD from Norman Regional Hospital. Includes a tour of the Peggy & Charles Stephenson Oklahoma Cancer Center (800 NE 10) immediately after the tea (3:30pm). RSVP required.

1-3:30pm. 232-1621.

Adult Mask Making Workshop at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 W MacArthur) invites participants ages 16 & up to create their own leather mask to take home with the assistance of Patrick Riley, Oklahoma artist & art educator. Preregister. $70, discounts available. 10am-4pm. 878-5300, www.mgmoa.org.

Walk for PKD at Lake Hefner Stars & Stripes Park (3701 S Lake Hefner) is a 1.2 mile walk to benefit the PKD Foundation. Registration begins at 9am. Penny Kids Dash, 10:30am; walk, 11am. www.pkdcure.org.

Opening celebration of The Oklahoma WONDERtorium, the state's newest children's museum, located at 308 West Franklin in Stillwater.

The museum offers 10,000 square feet of interactive, hands-on play and learning experiences for children up to age 12. $6 per person. 10am-5pm. 405-533-3333. www.okwondertorium.org.

Parents Night Out at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise, Edmond) invites kids ages 5 & up to enjoy an evening of fun with crafts & playground games as well as a pizza dinner while their parents go out.

Preregister. $25, $20 for sibling or friend. 340-7584, www.unpluggits.com.

OKC Barons vs. Texas Stars at the Cox Convention Center. 7pm. Tickets $14 & up, 800-745-3000 or www. ticketmaster.com. www.okcbarons.com. Other home games this month: 10/16, 21, 22, 28.

Two Aspects of Romanticism presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features the artists of the OKC Philharmonic performing with pianist, John Kimura Parker. 8pm. 232-7575, www.okcphilharmonic.org.

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21 • Friday

Friends of the Library Book Sale at the Norman Public Library. Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 1-5pm; Monday, 3-8pm.

FREE Third Friday Celtic Night at Sonder Music (225 E Gray, Norman) invites the public to join in the jam of traditional Celtic tunes with Celtic dancers. Held every third Friday of the month. 8-10pm. 474-9734, www. sondermusic.com.

16 • Sunday Make Promises Happen at Frontier City provides a fun-filled day in the park for special needs children. For ticket info, contact the Make Promises Happen office at 282-2811. www.frontiercity.com.

Winter Wind Concert Series: Steve Weichert at the Performing Arts Studio (200 S Jones, Norman) features Tulsa native & Austin recording artist Steve Weichert. $15. 7pm. 307-9320, www.pasnorman.org.

17 • Monday 16th Annual Allie Reynolds Memorial Red Earth Golf Tournament at Oklahoma Golf & Country Club (7000 NW Grand) benefits the Red Earth Museum & includes lunch on the course. $250 individual player, $1000 four-player team. Registration, 11am; Lunch, 12pm; Shotgun start, 1pm. 427-5225, www.redearth.org.

17-29 Girls Night: The Musical presented by Celebrity Attractions at OCCC Bruce Owen Theater follows five friends in their 30s & 40s during a wild & outrageous girls night out at a karaoke bar. Mature audiences. $35.

682-7579, www.celebrityattractions.com.

18 • Tuesday Science of SMO IMAX Dome Theater at Science Museum Oklahoma invites guests to learn about the coolest film format around from the people who keep the movies rolling. 9am-5pm. FREE with paid museum admission.

Tuesdays at Sundown—Good Light Stories: Nuances & Reflections on Photographing the West at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage features photographer Craig Varjabedian as he discusses the challenges & rewards of making images of the American West in conjunction with the exhibition “Ghost Ranch & the Faraway Nearby”. FREE for members, $5 for non-members. 6:30-8pm.

20 • Thursday Scout Day at the Oklahoma Aquarium invites members in uniform or carrying a membership card & one accompanying adult to enjoy the discounted education rate & earn the Aquarium’s own Junior Biologist Badge. $7 students, $10 adults. 10am-6pm.

Members Night at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History invites members to a “behind the scenes” evening exploring parts of the museum not generally accessible to the public. 5:30-8:30pm.

WEBE KING's KIDS presents "Seasons of the Heart" at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise, Edmond) features an entertaining & interactive Christian Puppet Show. FREE with paid admission. Half of admission price donated to the WEBE KING's KIDS ministry. 10:30am. 340-7584, www.unpluggits.com.

21-23 An Affair of the Heart at the State Fairgrounds is among the largest arts & crafts shows in the nation occupying more than five buildings with a variety of crafts, antiques, collectibles, furniture, decorative items, jewelry, & clothing. 632-2652, www.anaffairoftheheart. com.

21-28 USTRC Shootout Championship Team Roping at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie. 282-RIDE, www.lazye. com.

21-30 Sunday in the Park with George presented by University Theatre at OU Reynolds Performing Arts Center (560 Parrington Oval, Norman) is an awardwinning musical by Stephen Sondheim. .$25, $15 students. Wednesday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. $30 adults. 325-4101, www.ou.edu/finearts.

22 • Saturday Turkey Shoot at Hafer Park in Edmond includes horseshoe pitching. $15. 10am. 282-5097, doubleringer@cox.net.

University of Oklahoma Football vs. Texas Tech at the Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman. www.soonersports.com.

Garden Gala at the OKC Zoo invites guests to tour the Butterfly Garden, Oklahoma Trails & the Elephant Habitat with the Zoo’s Horticulture Team. Includes plant sale in Global Plaza. 10am-2pm.

FREE Sugar Free All Stars Halloween Concert & Costume Contest at Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen) features kindie music & a costume contest. 10:30am.

418-8881, www.uptownkidsstyle.com.

Dutch Oven Cooking Class at the Oklahoma History Center provides a hands-on experience in Dutch Oven Cooking for teens & their parents/guardians through the preparation of a group meal. Preregister. $10. 1-5pm.

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22-23

activities & more. $10 & up. 8am. 340-4481, www. edmondfinearts.com.

FREE Admission at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art to celebrate the grand opening of the Stuart Wing as well as installations from the permanent collections.

Coppelia presented by the OKC Ballet at the Civic Center Music Hall presents a tale of love and mistaken identity. $31. Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. 848-8637, www.okcballet.com.

24 • Monday The Monday Study Club features speaker Janet Barresi, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, speaking on her vision for Oklahoma Education in the 21st Century. 50 Penn Place, Community Room Level R-3. Doors open 11:30am, lunch 11:45am, speaker begins at noon. Annual membership $25, lunch $12.50 per session. Email mondaystudyclub@gmail.com.

25 • Tuesday Chanticleer at Armstrong Auditorium (14400 S Bryant, Edmond) features the multiple Grammy-winning all-male vocal ensemble. 7:30pm. 285-1010, www. armstrongauditorium.com.

26 • Wednesday FREE OSBI CSI for Teens at the Belle Isle Library features OSBI investigator Penny Cooper as she sets up a “case” & takes teens ages 12-17 through the steps that an actual investigator uses to solve crimes.

6:30-8:30pm.

28 • Friday World Neighbors: A Journey Around the World Gala at the OKC Farmers Market (311 S Klein) includes WorldFest shopping, international cuisine, entertainment & presentation of the World Neighbors & KFOR Dignity Award. Ticket prices vary. 5-9pm. 4180406, tevans@wn.org.

Red Earth Buffalo Bash at The Eclipse at Remington Park (1 Remington Place) benefits the programs of Red Earth. Includes cocktails, dinner, live & silent auctions, Red Earth market, dance exhibitions, storytelling & cultural presentations. $75 per person. 6-10pm. 4275228, www.redearth.org.

FREE National Weather Festival at the National Weather Center in Norman includes tours, children’s activities, storm chaser car show, hourly weather balloon launches & radio operators demonstrating their role during tornadoes, hurricanes & other disasters.

9am-1pm. www.norman.noaa.gov/events/nwf/ Bedlam Day at Orr Family Farm invites guests to wear their OU or OSU shirt to receive 20% off admission. 10am-9pm. 799-FARM, www.orrfamilyfarm.

FREE Red Ribbon Parade in Old Town Moore Downtown promotes drug free education with floats, bands & candy. Begins at 5th & Broadway & ends at Moore High School. 10am-12pm. 735-4297, www. mooreschools.com.

FREE Culture Jam at Moore Public Library celebrates various cultures with storytelling, cooking demonstrations & musical entertainment. Noon-4pm.

World Neighbors WorldFest Shopping Market at the OKC Farmers Market (311 S Klein) is a shopping event that will feature thousands of fair trade products for sale including jewelry from India, handbags from the Philippines, Pakistani scarves, Peruvian pottery, African home décor, food items & more. 9am-5pm. 4180406, tevans@wn.org. More on page 29.

29-30

Hamlet presented by Reduxion Theatre at the Broadway Theater (1613 N Broadway) features Shakespeare’s famous tragedy. $17 adults, $13 seniors/students/military. May not be appropriate for all audiences. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday 11/13, 2pm. 651-3191, www.reduxiontheatre.com.

Nov 4 Chemistry Day at Science Museum Oklahoma invites guests to discover the wonder and fun of chemistry through activity stations on the main exhibit floor, competing in team or individual competitions & experiencing live & crazy chemistry during Science Live! 9am-5pm. FREE with paid museum admission.

OKC Thunder vs. Indiana Pacers at the Chesapeake Energy Arena. $10 & up. 7pm. Tickets, 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com. www.nba.com/thunder. Other home games this month: 11/13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25.

Cultural Arts Series: Time for Three at OCCC Bruce Owen Theater features a string trio that includes elements of classical, country-western, gypsy & jazz idioms. $10-$22. 7pm. 682-7576, www.occc.edu/cas.

Robot Day at Science Museum Oklahoma invites guests to build a robot with their favorite SMO facilitator.

9am-5pm. FREE with paid museum admission.

November 3

thepaseo.com.

4-5 November Daily Events Nov FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo Arts District features more than 60 artists in 17 galleries.

November 1 Friday, 6-10pm; Saturday, noon-5pm. 525-2688, www.

OKC Philharmonic Pops Series—Mysterioso presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features a world of mind-blowing illusions & electrifying music with the world’s best magical artists.

8pm. 842-5387, www.okcphilharmonic.org.

Ben Folds with the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features Indie rocker, Ben Folds performing with the OKC Philharmonic. 8pm. 842-5387, www.okcphilharmonic.org.

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Tom Braxton: A Tribute to Wayman Tisdale at the Sooner Theatre (101 E Main, Norman) features the smooth jazz sounds Wayman Tisdale was known for following his stellar University of Oklahoma college and NBA basketball careers. $30 & up. 8pm. 321-9600, www.soonertheatre.org.

28-29

5K to Monet at the Fine Arts Institute (27 E Edwards, Edmond) features 1 mile fun run & a 5K benefitting the Fine Arts Institute, music, healthy food, children’s

Beauty & the Beast—Homecoming Musical at OCU Hardeman Auditorium is a musical presentation of a Disney classic. 8pm. 425-5530, www.oc.edu.

Artistry in Wood hosted by the OKC Woodcarvers Club at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds features the work of local & regional artisans exhibiting & demonstrating their woodcarving, turning & scroll saw art. Children will receive FREE instruction in soap carving. Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 10am-4pm. 2556168, www.okcarver.org.

Romeros Guitar Quartet at Armstrong Auditorium (14400 S Bryant, Edmond) features the “Royal Family of the Spanish Guitar.” 7:30pm. 285-1010, www. armstrongauditorium.com.

29 • Saturday

7:30pm. 974-3375, www.uco.edu/cfad/events.

Nov 5 FREE Saturdays for Kids-Photo Poetics at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum invites kids to see the photography of Craig Varjabedian and learn how to enhance their own photos & create short poems. Includes a gallery walk, art making & word craft with a photo to take home. Admission is FREE for children & one accompanying adult. 10am & 11am.

3-5

University of Oklahoma Football vs. Texas A&M at the Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman. www.soonersports.com. Other home games this month: 11/26.

OK High School Dance Festival featuring the Kaleidoscope Dancers presented by the UCO Department of Dance at UCO Mitchell Hall Theatre.

Oklahoma State University Football vs. Kansas State at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater. Time TBA. www.okstate.com.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | October 2011

Fall Break Camps For at least the students in the Oklahoma City Public School District, fall break is much longer this year, October 17-28.

get into the fall spirit. Participants will enjoy pumpkin carving, crafts, games, costume contest and more. $30.

9am-4pm. 354-8442, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

For this reason, local organizations have stepped up with more and longer fall break camps. Take advantage of these fun and educational opportunities for your kids.

20-21

17-21 Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma Fall Break Camp is a day camp experience at Camp Cookieland near Newalla with one overnight camping experience at Camp E-Ko-Wah near Marlow. Campers earn Cooking and Naturalist Legacy badges and will enjoy horseback riding, boating, archery & more. All ages. $125 per week or $25 per day. Scholarships available. 528-4475, www.gswestok.org.

17-28 Fall Break Camps at the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre for ages 5-12. Two one-week camps available including activities in play, creativity, imagination, art, theater, magic and more. $150 per week. 9am-4pm.

Aerobikidz Fall Break Camps at The Lighthouse (3333 W Hefner) for children 3-12 years include arts & crafts, sports, music, dance and more. 843-5439, www. aerobikidz.com.

18-19 Fall Break Camp at the Yukon Community Center (2200 S Holly, Yukon) is a fun way for kids ages 5-11 to

and p u Now ing! runn

Extended Hours at Bouncin Craze (14901 N Lincoln, Edmond) will be open Thursday from 3-7pm and Friday from 10am-3pm. 607-2020, www.bouncincraze.com.

Fall Break Camps at the OKC Museum of Art invites children ages 5-7 and 8-10 to spend two days learning how to create artistic masterpieces and enjoy a reception of their artwork. Before and after care available for $5 per child per day. $60 members, $65 non-members. 9am-4pm.

Fall Break Basketball Camp at Moore Community Center (301 S Howard, Moore) is a co-ed basketball camp for ages 6-16 held by Westmoore Basketball Coach Scott Hodges. $50. 9am-12pm. 793-5090, www. cityofmoore.com.

School’s Out Safari Day Camps at the OKC Zoo invites children ages 4-12 to enjoy a unique adventure.

Snacks provide, but campers must bring their lunch.

Preregister. $30 per day, siblings $20 per day. 7:30am5:30pm. 425-0218, www.okczoo.com.

Mad Science Fall Break Camps at Multi-Activity Center, Mitch Park. Kids K-5th grade. 9am-3:30pm. $95; bring sack lunch. Call 359-4630 to register. Also held at same time/dates at Edmond's YMCA, 1220 South Rankin. Call 348-9622 to register.

Fall Break Art Camp at the National Cowboy &

Western Heritage Museum offers hands-on art and craft activities using different art technniques such as watercolors, acrylics, pottery and printmaking and more. Before/after care available from 8am-5pm for $10 fee. Preregister. $65. 9am-4pm. 478-2250, www. nationalcowboymuseum.org.

Fall Break Mini-Camp presented by Kid Co Theatre at the George Fina Municipal Building (314 Edmond Rd NW, Piedmont) features students in grades 1-4 working together to create an original fall-themed play. $90.

9am-4pm. 563-5437, www.okkidco.org.

Fall Art Camp at Be Wild for Art (1006 24 Ave NW Suite 130, Norman) includes 3 Christian-themed projects: an angel statue, small round box and a cross.

Snacks provided. Register by October 4. $75. Ages 5-7, 10am-12pm; Ages 8 & up, 1-3pm. 307-9971, www. bewildforart.com.

20-28 Fall Break Camps at the City Arts Center at State Fair Park. Before/after care is available as well as scholarships. See website for class descriptions.

9am-4pm.

24-28 Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma Fall Break Workshop for girls in grades 4-8 provides opportunities to earn badges and enjoy fun, creative activities. Attendees may sign up for morning, afternoon or all-day sessions. $10, includes snack, crafts & activities. 528-4475, www.gswestok.org.

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405-601-2081 • info@metrofamilymagazine.com October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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No matter what time of year or occasion, you'll find the BEST party-planning choices in the area right here.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | October 2011

• Hand/Foot Print Turkey Platters • Pumpkin Mugs

A must-have memento for every home!

Paint your own pottery studio

7906 N. May, OKC

842-7770

paintnstation.com

October 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Mom Laetitia; dad Mitchell; Owen, age 3; Aaron, 5 months and Isaac, 5 months, of Oklahoma City.

Hiro, age 2, and Naomi M., age 4, of Norman.

Logan B., age 3, of Guthrie.

Boo!

In September, our readers submitted photos of their little ghosts and goblins enjoying Halloween fun.

View all submissions at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ october-2011-photos.

The Vu family of Oklahoma City (dad Tu; Caleb, age 6; Tyler, age 4; Madison, age 3 and mom Jeannie).

Kate L., age 4, of Oklahoma City.

Ethan, age 5; Emily, age 8; Noah, 1 month; Christopher, age 9 and James, age 3 of Moore.

For our November issue, we'd love to see your kids enjoying sports!

Send us your best photos of your kids playing sports or enjoying your favorite sporting event by Thursday, October 20. Guidelines and a form to submit your photos can be found at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/mfm-photo-galleries.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | October 2011