MetroFamily Magazine November 2012

November 2012

Now more than ever

Why good manners matter Gratitude games Fun ways to share appreciation

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Let the holiday fun begin:

Over 55 family events to kick off the season

Don't struggle with the juggle: 11 ways to find your inner calm metrofamilymagazine.com

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | November 2012

November 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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• Click

what’s new at metrofamilymagazine.com CALENDAR DIRECTORIES BLOGS CONTESTS SAVE MONEY

Voting in the MetroFamily Family Favorites award program also enters you into a contest for a holiday weekend trip to the Ozark Mountains. Pictured is the train at Silver Dollar City.

Vote before November 9 for your “faves” in our MetroFamily Family Favorites award program and you’ll be eligible to win an Ozark Mountain Christmas Weekend Getaway valued at over $650! The winning businesses and attractions will be honored in a special section of our February issue and highlighted for a year on our website. Details and voting at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/family-favorites.

Congratulations to the winners of our recent Cover Kids Search! You’ll see these brightfaced kids grace our covers next year: Ages 0–18 months: Alexander Reynolds (age 11 months), son of Dustin and Stephanie Reynolds, Edmond; ages 19 months–3 years, Draik Barrett (age 3), son of Brandon and Amey Barrett, Oklahoma City; ages 4–7 years, Abigail DeSpain (age 6), daughter of Rick and Kim DeSpain, Oklahoma City; ages 8–12 years, Sydney Anderson-Cullum (age 9), daughter of Faydra Cullum, Oklahoma City; ages 12–18, Josh Bruza (age 13), son of Jim and Margret Bruza, Edmond; Special Needs category, Julie Pershica (age 6), daughter of Joshua and Shelia Pershica and Kelley and David Gazaway, Oklahoma City.

Top picks & finds on our website this month • Starting November 15, all the info you need for a fun and meaningful holiday season will be found on our site. There, you’ll find the following: Our comprehensive holiday fun guide, a holiday lighting festivals list, the guide to giving back, places to find Santa and a Winter Break Camps listing. www.metrofamilymagazine.com/holiday-2012 • Looking for the “scoop” on newly-released movies? Our new movie review page can help! www.metrofamilymagazine.com/movie-reviews • MetroFamily is partnering with “New in Oklahoma,” a project designed to provide gifts and information about all the best in local Oklahoma businesses and attractions. Stay tuned for more on this exciting new project but in the meantime, register and start taking advantage of the perks at www.newinoklahoma.com.

Join the MetroFamily community of active local parents at:

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You could WIN big!

Sign up to be eligible for great prizes at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/contests.

• Vote to determine the winners of the MetroFamily Family Favorite Awards. As an added bonus, you’ll be eligible for a fabulous Ozark Mountain Holiday Weekend Package including accommodations. Deadline November 9.

• Ice Princesses & Princes are needed to represent the Norman Holiday Ice Rink and the Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink in each city’s upcoming holiday parade! Four lucky 5–11 year olds will be randomly selected to ride in a parade float—plus win a skating party for eight at the ice rink. Deadline December 1.

• Get ready for our BIG 12 Days of December holiday giveaway, full of fun products and tickets to local attractions— to use or give as gifts. Enter to win every day, December 1–12. PLUS you receive a bonus entry every time you get a friend to enter. Details available November 28.

You could SAVE big!

Find coupons to the businesses listed below at www. metrofamilymagazine. com/okc-family-discounts.

• Skate Galaxy OKC • College Nannies & Tutors • National Reining Horse Association Futurity • OK Health Solutions • Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch • Bright Smile Family Dentistry • Autumn Moore Photography • Gattitown • The Vintage Pearl • Club Z! In-Home Tutoring • Museum of Osteology • Bouncin’ Craze • Dawn to Dusk Inflatables • Jump!Zone • Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum • Mathnasium • Jingle & Jangle • Green Goodies by Tiffany (good from November 20–30) PLUS, save big bucks with the Kids Pass for 2012–2013 that includes over 30 coupons to local and statewide attractions!

Download it today at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-pass.

Contents November 2012

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6

Dear MetroFamily

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Family Shorts

Editor’s Note.

Community news, resources & other family-friendly information.

16 Oklahoma Reads Great reads for all.

18 Exploring Oklahoma

Visit Southwest Oklahoma’s Quartz Mountain Nature Center.

20 Ask the Expert

Guest expert Mary Poppins chimes in with our local experts on matters of etiquette.

22 Real Moms of the Metro

Meet Ginny Underwood, communications consultant and Native American.

26 Problem-Solving Products 28 Focus on Education

Why teens need lessons in good manners before entering the work force.

Are manners relevant and important for our children?

Mary Poppins and local experts speak out in this issue.

14 24

Creativity is a delicious pursuit at the Gourmet Yarn Company.

Help your kids connect to their gratitude by making it fun. Five game and activity ideas perfect for all ages.

Moms, overwhelmed by your daily tasks? Advice to get in balance and stop juggling.

ON OUR COVER: Five-year-old Jackson Burnett, son of Josh and Jill Burnett, Shawnee.

COVER PHOTO BY: Autumn Moore Photography, autumnmoorephotography.com.

PHOTO ABOVE: Jeremy Daniel.

30 Local Shopping

32 Your Healthy Family

Kim Hill uses her medical challenges as a reason to live a thankful life.

35 Calendar

Fun events, activities and classes.

46 Mom Gets the Last Laugh

Thanksgiving pageant or “good mommy” competition?

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Dear MetroFamily, November is here, the gateway to the holiday season. A great time to pause for a moment and take stock of what we are most thankful for in our lives—before our lives become too busy to pause for anything!

Speaking of pausing, are you afraid that if you slow down, you might forget something, drop one of those metaphorical balls that you try hard to keep up in the air?

Well, this month, we encourage you to stop that juggling. You’ve heard the studies, you don’t really What I’m most thankful for this month: a visit from my mom. save time when you multi task, so let’s make that our goal—to stop multitasking, live in the moment and really try to engage instead of juggling. See page 24 for tips on how to get started.

And if you are dreading Thanksgiving because your children just don’t seem to “get” the whole manners concept, we are here to help! We’ve got experts weighing in on the importance of manners and etiquette (including Mary Poppins—see page 20); games to get your kids excited about expressing gratitude in a fun way (page 14) and education experts to encourage your teen to think about how manners will help them in the job market (page 28).

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 ads@metrofamilymagazine.com Office and Distribution Manager Kathy Alberty kathy@metrofamilymagazine.com Assistant Editor & Online Content Manager Brooke Barnett brooke@metrofamilymagazine.com Calendar Editor Sara Riester calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com

Cheers,

Contributing Writers Brooke Barnett, Lela Davidson, Julie Dill, Shannon Fields, Kevan Goff-Parker, Sandra Gordon, Christina Katz, Heidi Smith-Luedtke

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

Circulation 35,000 – OKC, Edmond, Nichols Hills, Norman, Moore, Midwest City, Yukon Also available as a digital edition at MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

We asked our contributors:

What’s your favorite Thanksgiving holiday tradition?

Brooke Barnett, Assistant Editor

My step dad calls us early on Thanksgiving morning and plays a silly chicken song to wake everyone up— my kids love it!

Shannon Fields, Your Healthy Family

I enjoy seeing extended family I don’t get to see very often… and working in the kitchen together closes the gap left from time spent apart.

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Sarah Taylor, Publisher

Enjoying a lovely, leisurely meal together with family followed by pumpkin pie and Bingo.

Lela Davidson, Mom Gets the Last Laugh

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | November 2012

Stove Top. I’ve made those fancy recipes. They only left me weary, bleeding, and craving the familiar flavor of my childhood favorite.

I’m not alone on this.

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. 2012, All Rights Reserved.

Volume 15, Number 11

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Contributing writers: Brooke Barnett, Mari Farthing

10 Things the Babysitter Needs To Know

By Heidi Smith Luedtke

Arm your sitter with this helpful, insider info so she’ll be ready for whatever happens in your absence.

1. Approved snacks. Post a list of appropriate eats on the fridge, and show your sitter where to find them.

When kids are hungry, no one’s happy.

2. Clean expectations. Tell your sitter (and the kids) if you expect them to tidy up while you’re gone. Nothing ruins a romantic evening like coming home to a huge mess.

3.

4.

Heifer International Teaches Kids About the Gift of Giving

Parents and grandparents can share the joy of giving to those in need this holiday season with a new animated character from Heifer International. Sarah the Goat will show children how a goat, chicken, cow or other animal can bring a family from poverty to self-reliance. Since 1944, Heifer International has provided livestock and environmentally sound agricultural training to improve the lives of those who struggle daily for reliable sources of food and income.

With Sarah the Goat as a guide, children ages 5-10 can learn about the potential benefits that each animal can provide. Then, based off the benefits and their gift-giving budget, children can select which type of animal to donate to a family in need. For more information, visit www.heifer.org/alt-gift/sarah or call 1-800-696-1918.

Play-by-play. Unstructured time can be stressful. Leave a flexible schedule to help the sitter keep the kids busy.

Pay plan. Be up front about money.

Ask how much the sitter charges and/or explain how much you’ll pay.

Going rates vary by location, number and ages of children, and the sitter’s level of experience.

5. Tech specs. Establish screen-time rules and show the sitter how to operate electronics, so your toddler doesn’t have a tantrum when she can’t work the DVR.

6.

7.

Secret soothers. Reveal your surefire tricks for comforting upset or overtired kids, including favorite songs, videos, books and blankets.

Bedtime basics. Leave a step-bystep guide to your bedtime routine.

Writing it down takes only a few minutes and may save your sitter hours of frustration.

8. Hidden hazards. Alert your sitter to food allergies and other safety issues.

These situations won’t be obvious unless you speak up.

9.

Discipline directions. Your sitter needs to know how to address bad behavior. Show her the time-out chair and toy jail.

10. Contact info. Leave several contact numbers and tell your sitter whether it’s okay to call with questions. Most sitters won’t reach out unless parents give the okay.

Local Actor Stars in Film Addressing Teen Suicide

In response to the high number of teenage suicides in their parish, Louisiana-based R-Squared Productions film company recently released a new DVD called New Hope, in hopes of changing lives and providing encouragement to struggling teens. The DVD is available through R-Squared Productions website at www.r2films.net.

“Our commitment at R-Squared Productions is to make life changing films and we believe that New Hope is a film that has already, and will continue to do exactly that,” explains Rodney Ray, owner of R-Squared Productions. The film quickly garnered numerous endorsements, including one from internationally renowned speaker Josh McDowell. “Teen issues are dealt with creatively and realistically with a bold declaration that teens can seek and find acceptance of a higher standard. New Hope opens these channels of communication between parents and children so desperately needed today,” McDowell said.

This film also has a tie to the Oklahoma City metro. Local actor Will Schwab played one of the film’s lead roles, that of Alex Evans, the new pastor in town. It is the first featured role in a film for Schwab. Throughout his career, Schwab has performed in churches, civic auditoriums, local cable shows, and as an extra in both primetime television and Hollywood films. He and his wife live in Shawnee with their four children.

“The community of West Monroe has been suffering from an alarming number of suicides and [Ray] wanted to make a movie that could bring people hope in the midst of difficult times,” Schwab explains. “The film centers around the character of my son, and the pressures he faces as the new kid in town, attending a high school that has just marked the 1 year anniversary of a students’ suicide.” Schwab says he is amazed at the overall production values and overall quality of the film. “It was truly done as a ministry,” Schwab explains. “For all of us it is a labor of love. And the best part is that the message is very encouraging.”

Watch a trailer, learn more about New Hope and find out how church, school and civic groups can view the movie at www.newhopethemovie.com.

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Top 10 Reader Picks: Best Places to Buy Holiday Desserts

New Parenting Classes to Help Protect Children

Family Builders, formerly known as Parents Assistance Center, is offering several new parenting courses to help build better family relationships in Oklahoma City. Oklahoma ranks in the top five states for the rate of child abuse and neglect deaths and these classes reflect a prevention-oriented approach that all parents can use.

“Child abuse is one of the worst problems in our state,” explains Laura Gamble, Executive Director. “Every day in Oklahoma, 84 children are confirmed victims of abuse, that’s 30,576 per year—twice the capacity of Chesapeake Arena. We must do a better job of protecting our children and Family Builders is dedicated to doing just that with our new education programs. These programs give children and parents the tools they need to protect themselves.”

Some of Family Builder’s new programs include:

Youth Leadership Oklahoma

The statewide Youth Leadership Oklahoma (YLOK) program is now accepting applications for its 2013 program, which will be held June 9–14. Participants will take a week-long journey across the state to meet the leaders, issues, resources and cultural treasures of Oklahoma.

Qualified applicants must be high school juniors (or home-schooled equivalent) with a 3.25 grade point average on a 4.0 scale. Fifty class members are accepted each year, and students must demonstrate leadership ability through activities (such as student council or

• Othello’s Italian Restaurant (Norman & Edmond www.othellos.us)

• Eileen’s Colossal Cookies (1333 N Santa Fe, Edmond; www.eileenscookies.com/locations/edmond-ok) • Cookies n Cards (115 12th Avenue SE, Norman; www.cookiesncards.com)

• Caffe Pranzo (9622 N May Ave; caffepranzo.publishpath.com) • Pioneer Pies (2201 SW 74th; www.pioneerpies.com)

• Sweete Memories Specialty Cakes (6501 N May; www.sweetememories.com)

• Keeping Kids Safe educates parents on the dangers of sexual predators and how to protect their children.

For details, call 405-232-8226 or visit www.familybuildersok.org.

• Sweets and Spurs (215 34th Ave SW, Norman; www.sweetsandspurs.com)

• Ingrid’s Kitchen (3701 N Young; www.ingridskitchen.com)

• Kids on the Block teaches elementary school-age children about child abuse in an age-appropriate format. Children learn that child abuse is not normal, that it is never their fault, and they learn who and how to tell about the abuse.

• Never Shake a Baby teaches parents and caregivers about the dangers of shaking a baby and how to handle the stress of caring for infants.

• LaBaguette Bakery (7408 North May & 2 locations in Norman; www.labaguette.com)

• Jubilee Market Bakery & Boutique (835 SW 119th; www.jubileemarketokc.com)

• Parenting Workshops is a brown bag lunch series hosted at workplaces in the metro. Topics include alternative child discipline and how to establish regular family routines that promote healthy relationships.

• Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse classes teach adults how to recognize and report child abuse.

Fortunately for our taste buds (but perhaps unfortunately for our waist lines!), the holiday season is the perfect time to enjoy a tasty dessert. From holiday parties, family gettogethers and other celebrations, there are many occasions that require a sweet treat—but sometimes busy holiday schedules don’t allow it to be homemade. We polled our readers for their favorite places to pick up a pie, cake or other holiday dessert. Here, in random order, are their recommendations:

Thanks to Sara R., Anne D., Angel P., Stacy M., Roxy K., Holly G., Jessie F., Amanda W., Cindy D., and Kristen M. for contributing to this list. Visit www.facebook.com/ metrofamily to share your thoughts on next month’s list.

Have a place you’d like to suggest? Comment at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/best-holiday-desserts.

athletics) and commitment to community. Participants are also considered on the basis of geographic, racial and cultural diversity.

The program began in 2001 to create an educational and inspiring program to instill future leaders with hope, pride and responsibility in Oklahoma’s future. Many past participants (over 550 students from over 204 schools) have called the experience “life-changing.”

Applications, due December 4, may be downloaded from the YLOK website, www.leadershipoklahoma.com or by calling 405-848-0001.

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Easy Tips For Raising Thankful Kids

By Tiffany Guerzon

• Pare down. Before the holidays, go through the kids’ toys. Help them choose which toys they no longer play with and donate them.

• Give selflessly. Build charity into your holiday budget. Have your children help you pick out a small gift and then take them with you to drop it off to an organization that collects toys for needy children.

• Share. Do the same with food. Explain that not everyone has enough to eat. The little ones won’t quite get it, but you are planting a seed.

• Give thoughtfully. Encourage children to give presents. This helps to shift the focus to “giving” rather than “getting.” No need to buy gifts—they could draw a picture or make a simple craft for relatives.

• Show appreciation. Have them write thank you notes. For the preschooler, you can write the note then let them decorate or color the card. Older children can write their own.

• Use good manners. Please say thank you. It sounds simple, but teaching basic manners at a young age does make a difference.

• Count your blessings. Start family traditions that focus on your blessings. This can be done in the form of a craft, by having them make or color a “thankful tree” (draw a tree and write the things for which they are thankful on the leaves), or “thankful turkey” (write on the turkey’s tail feathers.)

Briace Stubbs enjoys a morning at MLK Jr. Elementary with his children, Donajha and Bravion.

Learning Outside the Lines: TRUE Dads

By Julie Dill

Spotlight on Character: Contentment

In the contented, even poverty is a joy. To the discontented, even wealth is a vexation.

— Chinese Proverb Being content means realizing that true happiness does not depend on material conditions. Finding contentment in your home means being willing to have fewer things that you enjoy more AND buying less to stay within the family budget. To teach contentment, parents invest time in children instead of buying their favor with money or gifts.

Encourage contentment in your family by saying these “I will” statements aloud with your children and applying them to everyday life:

I will: be thankful for what I have • not always ask for “one more” • value people above things • want less • give more.

• • •

Read about contentment to bring the lesson home to your kids.

Peas on Earth by Todd H. Doodler is a cute board book for young readers, to remind them the value of happiness and contentment.

The THANKFUL Book by Todd Parr features brightly colored drawings highlighting the everyday things kids can be thankful for.

Three Cups by Tony Townsley and Mark St. Germain, illustrated

by April Willy, provides a tangible lesson for children in good money management and charitable giving.

I will statements courtesy of Character First, www.characterfirst.com.

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There is great value in a father’s involvement in their children’s education. Oklahoma City Public Schools recognized this last month when they partnered with TRUE Dads, a local organization that supports fathers and father figures. Calvin Williams developed the concept for TRUE Dads with a mission to “develop awareness of the value and need of fathers in our children’s lives, especially in education.”

Fathers in selected Oklahoma City Public Schools brought their children to school, joined them for breakfast and walked them to class. With high participation at schools such as MLK Jr. Elementary School, Williams said, “It’s a very moving sight.”

Many dads signed a 3-2-1 pledge, promising to volunteer at their child’s school, meet with teachers and attend workshops to build on the program’s mission. A short meeting encouraged fathers to attend TRUE Dads’ workshops that are based on the “On My Shoulders Fatherhood” curriculum.

Williams stated, “When we come together as a community of fathers, our schools benefit, our communities benefit, and our children benefit.” For more information, call 405-420-3875.

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I am most grateful for my faith. car

running

my teachers

my family

Peace

daughter

good friends

stability

health

popcorn

LOVE

GRATITUDE GAMES Fun Ways to Reawaken Appreciation in Kids

Let’s face it—kids do not always feel grateful for everything they have. But just because they do not feel appreciative every minute of every day does not make them ungrateful.

And for better or for worse, if you constantly nag your kids with lines like, “Do you realize how lucky/ fortunate/blessed you are?” they’ll just tune you out eventually.

An attitude of gratitude is something children need to be reminded to practice without excessive pressuring. In fact, if you can make searching for gratitude an opportunity for fun every year, everybody wins.

You may be surprised to learn that your kids are a lot more appreciative than you thought. And they might decide that discovering and expressing what they feel grateful for isn’t as much of a pain as they had imagined.

Make gratitude games an annual habit every Thanksgiving season.

Here are five ways to motivate your kids to dig deep and rediscover an inner well of thankfulness without feeling put out.

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1. Word Association

Let kids brainstorm a list of words that represent moments, memories, and things that naturally pop into their minds in response to the question, “What do I feel most grateful for?”

Family members can work alone or as a group. A parent can help a preschooler create a short, colorful list. School-age children may do better if given a number challenge like, “What are the top ten things you feel most grateful for this past year?” Keep the activity quick, fun, and light. Don’t treat it like an essay assignment unless you have a writer in the family, who would enjoy doing just that.

2. Photo Safari

Over the course of a fall weekend, give each child a turn with a digital camera or your camera phone. The assignment is to go around your house and yard snapping photos of things that make them feel happy.

These photos can include people, pets, nature, objects, places, and anything else they love. When you recover your camera, download a smattering of photos for each child into a collage format offered through your favorite local photo printing service.

Have each child title the document in his or her own words and hang photo collages near the Thanksgiving table. Plastic or magnetic frames make it easy to protect and store collages for next year.

health

my dog

son

Grandma

blue ice cream my teacher God

freedom

sunrises

I am most grateful for my family. home

3. Appreciation Postcards

Get a few packages of blank postcards and fine-point water-based markers from the art supply store. For young children, parents can address one side with names and addresses of family members in permanent ink, so important information won’t smear. Then, on the other side, ask kids to write a word that describes how they appreciate each family member and decorate the post card to match the sentiment. Make this an annual event and family members will look forward to their handmade postcards every year.

4. Lessons Learned

Life is full of opportunities for learning. Sometimes we learn things we can’t appreciate until later because the learning process is difficult, challenging or painful. Discussing these kinds of learning experiences raises an awareness of resiliency in kids and teaches them not to shirk challenges.

About a week before Thanksgiving, start a round robin of sharing tough lessons learned during the past year. Rather than having everyone share in one night, let one person volunteer to share during dinner in a relaxed manner. You might just find your family swept up in some of your most educational and inspiring conversations all year.

salvation

security

laughter 5. Written on Stone

Creating a thoughtful gift for someone else can bring out gratitude in even the grumpiest pilgrim. Purchase enough large river stones from your local garden shop or stone supplier so that each person in attendance for Thanksgiving will have one with their name on it.

Pick up a couple extra, just in case. If you can’t find suitable stones, unfinished stone tiles would also work well for this project.

Scrub stones clean with soap and water and let dry. Paint stones on the top, sides, and bottom lip in an array of autumnal colors. Across top of each stone, write guest’s names in large letters with permanent markers or paint pens. Let dry completely, then cut words that describe each guest out of old magazines. Apply words to edges of stones with Mod Podge and sponge brushes. When stones are dry, cut and glue a piece of matching colored felt on the bottom. Use stones as placeholders at the Thanksgiving table and watch for proud grins.

Christina Katz is an author and freelance journalist. She feels grateful every time someone reads her words. Her latest book is The Writer’s Workout from Writer’s Digest Books.

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Oklahoma Reads Great Reads for All Indian Tribes of Oklahoma: A Guide Oklahoma license plates proclaim “Native America,” a nod to our state’s rich Native history and culture. This book explores the wide diversity of Native American Indian tribes that are a part of the largest Native population of any state. (By Blue Clark, University of Oklahoma Press, hardcover, $30)

Early Readers

Alphabet Everywhere Photography by Elliott Kaufman Abbeville kids, hardcover, $15 A brilliant book of photographs for young kids that finds the letters of the alphabet in the most everyday of places (including plants, building features and shadows).

Includes a key in the back of the book describing the source of each image.

The Great Elephant Escape

By Una Belle Townsend, illustrated by Janice Hechter Pelican Publishing, hardcover, $17 This story of two elephants (Isa and Lilly) that escaped from the circus in Hugo, Oklahoma is based on a true story and written by an award-winning local writer.

Oh Nuts!

By Tammi Sauer, illustrated by Dan Krall Bloomsbury Kids, hardcover, $17 Cutesy, Blinky and Bob are three chipmunks just trying to get noticed at the zoo… until they get noticed and realize that maybe their lives before were just perfect. A fun and brightlycolored adventure by a local writer.

Grades 3+

100 People Who Made History

By Ben Gilliland DK Publishing, hardcover, $17 A fun overview of 100 widely-varied personalities who put their stamp on the world we live in today.

Features background on everyone from Aristotle and Martin Luther to Coco Chanel and Walt Disney.

Reviews by Mari Farthing.

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The Amazing Mr. Franklin

By Ruth Ashby Peachtree, hardcover, $13 This fast-paced biography of young Ben Franklin reads like compelling fiction. The story begins with Franklin’s early life and love of books, continuing through many of his greatest accomplishments.

Teens

Decisionology

By Daniel P. Gates iUniverse, softcover, $13 Parents often say that their teens are lacking in good problem-solving skills. A guide for teens to refer to when making tough decisions, with action items in each chapter to help readers to find the best course of action in a given situation.

Adults

Chic on a Shoestring

By Mary Jane Baxter Perigree Books, softcover, $23 Fun and easy decoration and gift ideas fill the pages of this book. Easy to follow pictures and illustrations make it easy to tackle these creative sewing projects.

The HomeCEO’s Guide to Life

By Maraya Pearson and Jamie Songy HomeCEO, Inc., softcover, $30 A full-life approach to living in harmony, health and happiness that focuses on 12 core values and organization.

Savory Sweet Life

By Alice Currah William Morrow, softcover, $25 A cookbook filled with delicious recipes, some healthy and some indulgent, that remind readers that a life well lived needs both.

November 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Exploring Oklahoma Quartz Mountain Nature Park

T

here are many wonderful places to enjoy nature in the metro area, but if you’re seeking a different landscape, your options are fairly limited. A gorgeous view of mountains and lakes is just a short car tip away though, so pack a bag and plan your visit to Quartz Mountain Nature Park!

Getting There

Traveling to Quartz Mountain is fairly simple. I have no real travel experience in the southwest part of the state and I found it quickly and easily, much to my children’s delight.

From Oklahoma City, there are two ways to reach Quartz Mountain: the longer way (south on I-44, west on Highway 62, north on Highway 6) and the shorter way (west on I-40, south on Highway 183, west on Highway 9). The longer way features wider highways and faster speed limits but also limited stopping points and tolls. The shorter route features slower travel on two-lane roads but you also get to pass through several small towns. On our trips to and from Quartz Mountain we tried both routes and we preferred the longer route due to the better roads and fewer construction zones.

When you first reach Quartz Mountain, look for the park office on the right after you cross the bridge. This will be your first chance for bathroom breaks and is a great place to pick up information about the park, including trail maps and information on plants and things you might see when you’re out exploring. They also have brochures on park history and park activities, such as metal detecting or rock climbing.

Hiking options at Quartz Mountain Nature Park include trails suited for strollers and others more rocky and challenging for older kids.

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The Nature Center

Our next stop was the nature center, where we met with the park naturalist, Sue Hokansen. Ms. Hokansen is a wonderful resource for learning about plants and animals in the park. She happily answered many questions and provided us with coloring pages, nature hike checklists and maps showing kid-friendly trails. Make time to see all of the displays in the nature center—there are many exhibits for the kids to explore, including turtle shells and skunk pelts. A huge hit with my three year old was the track table, where kids can stamp different animal tracks into the dirt. We always enjoy visiting places where the kids are encouraged to pick things up and learn as much as they can.

Hitting the Trails

From the nature center, it’s a quick drive over the mountain to the resort area and the kid-friendly trails. The first trail we tried was the Cave Trail. Tucked behind the outdoor theater, this trail is great for kids who are old enough to climb, but is not a trail for strollers or wheelchairs. It’s a short distance to the cave at the top, but the climb up the rocks will allow young kids to feel like real explorers.

On the other side of the parking area, there is a trail that is accessible for everyone in the family. Starting at the covered bridge, the paved trail winds around the lake area (currently dry) to the other side of the bridge, then around the mountains looking over the lake. This is a fairly long trail, so you may want to bring a stroller for tired children and carry your water bottles and snacks. At the end of the trail is a rocky area great for older kids to climb, but watch for cactus needles and wear sturdy shoes. There are other trails available for more advanced hikers.

Even young hikers can have fun on the Cave Trail!

At the top of the Cave Trail.

Other Fun Activities

If you’re not into hiking, there are some other attractions that you may enjoy. Golf, mini-golf, paddle boats, fishing, and ATVs are all available at various times of the year. Before you make your trip, check out the Quartz Mountain Nature Park website to make sure the attractions will be open. Quartz Mountain Fun Park (not affiliated with the nature park and resort) is located just outside the park grounds and is open in the summer.

Jennifer Geary is a homeschooling mom from Broken Arrow, formerly of OKC, who loves to have adventures with her family. Read her blog at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/adventures-in-homeschooling.

Quartz Mountain is roughly three hours away from the metro, so it can easily be a day trip. If you want to spend the night, there are several options. There are sites for primitive camping as well as for campers and RVs. If you don’t have camping equipment, there are cabins available to rent, too. And if camping of any kind isn’t your style, you can reserve a room at the resort. There is really something for every budget and every preference.

Before You Go

There are a few things to take into account when planning your trip:

• Come prepared with snacks and food. Altus is the nearest town and there are not many options for purchasing food nearby unless you choose to eat at the resort. There is a grocery store, but its hours vary and it is closed for the season after October 31. We packed lunches and had a picnic on the covered bridge, one of many great spots for picnics.

• Dress appropriately. If you’re hiking the trails you will need good shoes and long pants can prevent scrapes and scratches.

• Check the park website or call for details before you make your trip. With so many offerings at so many different times of the year, you don’t want to miss out on the fun!

Find It

Quartz Mountain Arts & Conference Center & Nature Park 43393 Scissortail Road Lone Wolf, OK 73655 580-563-2238, www.quartzmountain.org Hours and fees vary; check website or call for details

November 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Ask the Experts The Importance of Good Etiquette This month’s question: How can I teach my children the importance of proper etiquette? Is etiquette still relevant or has it just become another landmark of our past?

You teach your children etiquette by example. We usually think of table manners first. If you want your children to be polite when they eat supper with another family, first teach them how to be polite at home. For more guidance in fork and spoon placement, sign them up for a local cotillion. Many are available in the metro area, but for free, you can teach your children at home how to say “please” and “thank you,” and to ask to leave the table if they need to make any bodily noises or blow their noses.

Very rarely will someone notice if your child is polite at the table or visiting their home—but they will always notice if your kids are demanding or rude. Etiquette is applicable in today's society, because it allows a lack of interference in communication.

When I teach etiquette to others the point I make is this: the purpose of etiquette is to help you feel most comfortable. If you know a few rules of what a society believes is polite and respectful, and follow these rules, you will feel more at ease and able to enjoy yourself, rather than worrying “am I doing what is right?” Following the basics of etiquette is a way to honor others around us, and that’s always the right choice.

Devonne Carter, LCSW, is a Clinical Social Worker in private practice in Edmond. 405-326-3923, www.carterscounseling.com.

It does seem, in many ways, that etiquette is no longer taught by parents or at school—especially not to the extent it was a generation or two ago. I think this is a disservice to our children. I strongly feel that kids should learn proper etiquette both at home and at school. Manners such as saying “please” and “thank you” and being respectful of others should never go out of style.

Some may think teaching kids to address elders as “Ma’am” or “Sir,” men holding doors for women or writing thank you notes are oldfashioned and outdated ideas; but why should they be? Teaching kids to be polite and respectful of others helps them to learn how to interact in society and become less self-centered—both of which are necessary to having healthy relationships with others.

Maybe your young child won’t be dining at a fancy restaurant where he needs to know the salad fork from the dinner fork or the proper placement for each, but when he’s old enough to take a date out to dinner, that information could come in handy and he might just thank you for teaching him. When she is old enough to interview for a job, proper etiquette could help put her at the top of the manager’s list.

Start teaching manners and etiquette at home and if you want help, consider signing up for etiquette classes.

Tamara Walker, RN is a talk show host and speaker in Edmond. www.momrn.com.

As a person with experience in the business world, I can say without reservation that etiquette skills are still essential, and teaching these skills start in the home. Make manners a priority and make sure you practice what you preach. Have fun with it. Pick a special night and break out the china. Have a formal dinner and pretend that you and your child are on a date. Make the meal special as well (not mac and cheese!).

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Also encourage your kids in public. Compliment them, and have others do the same. This can make a lasting impression, will give your child greater self confidence and motivation to continue acting with good etiquette once the results are seen.

Donnie Van Curen, M.A., LMFT is a licensed marriage and family therapist with Counseling 1820, LLC. 405-823-4302, www.counseling1820.com.

Playing Mary Poppins every night has taught me that etiquette and manners are still as important today as they were in the days of Mary Poppins. In the show, Mary teaches Jane and Michael lessons such as “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” “Don’t interrupt” and “Treat all things in this world with kindness and care.” Through learning these lessons, children are able to live happy and healthy lives. The children are also reflections of their parents. The family only reaches harmonious living when the parents and children both start treating each other with respect. And that is what etiquette is really all about— treating each other with kindness and respect. It is a lesson everyone should live by no matter what age. Spit spot!

Madeline Trumble plays Mary Poppins in the national touring production of the same name. A native of California, Trumble has starred on Broadway in Newsies, and a variety of productions in regional theater.

Our thanks to Celebrity Attractions for connecting us with the beloved, magical nanny!

Our Readers Respond:

• I believe etiquette is very important. As far as helping your kids learn, you have to model it and there are even humorous books out there for kids about etiquette that can make it fun.

Being a polite, courteous person and one who knows how to eat properly at the table, for example will set your children apart when they are out in the real world.

• Manners are always important! The more we allow this world to get out of hand by not teaching our children such basic ways of society, the worse off we will be. When my children see some other kids acting out without manners and ask why they can't act like that, I point out how many people are staring at those children. I then point out how much people like those who can act with decorum and manners.

• One thing that has worked very well for us is simply to model manners for them. When the adults around them are polite to others, kids pick that up pretty quickly without any extra effort.

• In Edmond, we have etiquette classes at the MAC building in Mitch Park. Visit www.edmondok.com/parks/rec for dates and times.

Thanks to Mary Y., Sarah T., Dorothy H. and the City of Edmond Parks and Recreation for your feedback!

Have a question for our experts?

Email it to editor@metrofamilymagazine.com.

November 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Real Moms of the Metro Meet Ginny Underwood: Communications Consultant

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Photo by Autumn Moore Photography, www.autumnmoorephotography.com

inny Underwood is a member of the Comanche/Kiowa tribe and mother of two. After living in Nashville for 17 years and giving birth to her daughters, she and husband John, a Seminole, made the decision to move back to Oklahoma five years ago. “We wanted to the kids could be around family and participate in cultural experiences,” she explains. “Being in Oklahoma, with our families and Native communities allows my children access to great role models, connection to things beyond themselves and an understanding of who they are as tribal people.”

Her daughters (Avery, 13 and Alyssa, 9) are enrolled members of the Comanche Nation but also have lineage in the Seminole and Kiowa tribes. “We want them to be proud of who they are and to feel a sense of connection that will shape their decisions in life,” Underwood explains.

In addition to exposing her children to their Native American heritage, Ginny’s other priority is to use her work as a communications consultant to help non-profits and other local community organizations. “I try to use my skills to help non-profits make a difference in the world,” she explains.

Here’s more on how this 40-year-old mom from Yukon enjoys the freedom of her flexible schedule, sappy romance novels and being a strong female role model for other Native American women and children:

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

I have traveled extensively across Africa setting up communication centers to help indigenous people tell their own stories through the United Methodist Church.

Quick Facts About Ginny 1. What are five words that describe you? Strong, creative, original, driven, loving.

2. What’s your favorite indulgence? Long lunches.

3. What’s on your playlist? Adele, Sheryl Crow, One Direction.

4. What’s your favorite TV show?

Modern Family.

5. What’s always in your handbag? Chapstick and my wallet.

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Real Mom Ginny Underwood, pictured with her husband, John, and daughters Avery, age 13, and Alyssa, age 9.

What are you passionate about?

Using technology to give voice to the voiceless. Technology no longer requires groups to have huge budgets to share their information.

What motivates you?

I have had the privilege to see and be around strong female leaders. I want to be that for other Native women and children.

How do you banish stress?

I read romance novels that have no redeeming quality whatsoever.

Advice for other moms?

Love whole-heartedly, every day, and praise your children often.

How has motherhood changed you?

It has taught me to love unconditionally.

What inspires you?

People who take risks, fail and get back up again.

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

I am a communications consultant. I work with non-profits to develop and implement strategic communications plans. This includes strategies for sharing information using new media, script writing, press releases, web design, public relations and training. I really enjoy working with organizations that are small in nature but have big impact.

What do you like most about your job?

I like to be able to choose with whom I work and the projects I work on. I also like the flexibility that allows me to be there for my kids.

What is on your wish list?

1. World peace.

2. A new iPad

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | November 2012

How do you find balance in your life?

I try to make good choices for myself and my family.

Where are you from originally?

I’m from Oklahoma but worked in Nashville for 17 years. We came back to be closer to family and our tribal people.

What’s the biggest challenge in your life?

Managing my own consultancy is challenging, but very rewarding.

What is your parenting style?

I’m relaxed and trusting, but very clear about expectations.

Favorite quote or advice about motherhood?

“Being powerful and doing powerful things are not the same. Do powerful things.” I believe influencing future generations is pretty powerful.

Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

November 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Stop Struggling with the Juggling!

In an ideal world, you’ve got a satisfying career with plenty of time and energy to play with your baby, help with homework, relax with your husband, get to the gym and catch up with your friends. The reality?

You’re exhausted from toiling harder and longer just to keep up with your job, and it’s taking a toll. You’re time-crunched, short-tempered and wound so tight that even relaxing takes effort.

Can You Relate?

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. “In today’s competitive culture, there’s greater stress on an internal and external level,” says Ann Chanler, Ph.D., a psychoanalyst in New York City. The more that’s expected of us, the more we demand from ourselves to be the best wife, doting mom and caring friend, because we don’t want to let anything slide. But feeling frazzled and the ripple effects on our professional and personal lives aren’t fun for anyone or healthy for you over the long run.

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Something’s Gotta Give.

But what? We tapped work/life experts like Chanler and working moms like you for their top sanity-saving tips on how to rebalance the balancing act.

Put you at the top of your to-do list.

“If you don’t take care of yourself first, you won’t be able to do a good job of taking care of everybody,” says Chanler, the mother of two teenage daughters. She likens self-care to the oxygen mask demonstration on airplanes. Although it feels counterintuitive, you’re instructed to strap your mask on first, before your child’s. That means that if, for example, you have a choice between returning e-mail or strolling with your baby, take the walk. Block out an hour in your datebook each week for yourself and arrange your own play dates at least once a month, too. “Parenting can be isolating, but other moms can give you help with issues you’re facing and make you realize you’re not alone. Friends who don’t have kids can help you connect with a part of yourself that existed before you had a family,” Chanler says.

Think, “less is more.”

For a greater sense of calm, ask yourself: What can I nix from my to-do list? Then choose one thing to delete from that day or week’s agenda. Ah. Also, stop multitasking. “Create a schedule of when you’ll work, take care of the kids or spend time with your spouse, and

then concentrate only on the task at hand.

Ask yourself: What should I be doing now?

And then do only that,” says Leah Aharoni, a managing director at a translation agency and mom of six.

Snooze away stress.

“To manage stress, you have to be well-rested,” says Savitri Dixon-Saxon, Ph.D., associate dean of the Walden University School of Counseling and Social Services, an online university. Lack of shut-eye increases your body’s production of cortisol, a stress hormone, so try to log in six to eight hours of sleep each night. Your brain needs the down time. A study in the journal Sleep found that people who slept that much performed the best on tests that assessed cognitive function, memory, reasoning and vocabulary. Sleep is also the ultimate fatigue fighter. To log in more zzzz’s, turn off the TV and go to bed earlier.

Exercise your options.

Try to get in at least 30 minutes of daily exercise—Mother Nature’s reset button. To spend more time with your family while you’re at it, be active together. Go for walks, strolling after dinner or hiking or biking together on the weekends. Family time is so important in and of itself. If you can incorporate activity into it, it’s a double bonus.

Catch your breath.

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, breathe in through your nose to the count of four, exhale through your mouth for a count of four, and so on, for four sets. “Do this simple exercise in the car, in your office, or in the bathroom stall at work if you have to,” says Karol Ward, a licensed clinical social worker in New York City. It helps you think clearly and regain your equilibrium. “I breathe if I’m anxious before phone calls or meetings, or before talking to my kids or my husband when I’m tired. It changes everything,” adds Diana Fletcher, a life coach and author of Happy on Purpose.

Eat well.

A diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, paired with healthy sources of lean protein like chicken and fish provides the variety of nutrients you need to cope with stress and the energy you need to multitask.

Instead of resorting to take-out (again), use the weekends to plan menus, shop, batchcook, and prep healthy meals and snacks for the week. To create even more time, “Once a week, make a crock-pot meal,” suggests Cristin Frank, a writer mom of two. “The night before, portion out ingredients so you can toss them into the slow cooker in the morning. You’ll only have one pot to clean at the end of the night.” Bonus!

Don’t be the clean queen.

Full-time working women do over 33 hours of domestic chores weekly, while their male counterparts do about 16, according a study published in Women Don’t Ask, by Linda Babcock, professor of economics at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. To end the dreaded second shift, let some of the housework slide or ask your spouse and your kids for help. Doing chores actually helps build a child’s sense of competence. If your standards are exacting, lower them. So what if the sheets don’t get changed as often or your husband misses a spot when he’s dusting the furniture?

Take notes.

Use a planner to write down appointments, reminders, bright ideas and your daily to-do list. “It allows your mind to rest because you know you won’t forget anything important,” says Renee Metzler, a life organizational coach and fellow mom in the trenches.

Create a day-is-done ritual.

Make a self-imposed boundary between work and home that’s designed to bring closure to the end of your work day. One example: Take a shower at home after work and imagine your problems of the day disappearing down the drain, says John Brubaker, a work-life balance consultant. After that, you’ll feel more ready to give your family your full attention.

Determine your stress triggers.

Is it having too much to do? Working on the weekends? “Once you understand the root cause of your stress, you can take positive steps to cope by avoiding thoughts, behaviors and activities that increase your anxiety,” says Soroya Bacchus, Ph.D., a board-certified psychiatrist in Los Angeles.

“Try to stack more labor-intensive assignments and those that require others’ input early in the week and taper down so that by Friday you can essentially focus on housekeeping tasks,” says Ellen Schack, a work/life balance expert at www.theceocouple.com.

“This strategy can help you avoid weekend workloads and other infringements on what should be your personal time.”

Finally, savor the good times.

“Something always comes up at work or at home, but when everything seems to be running smoothly, whether it’s the fact that my kids aren’t driving me crazy or that everyone is doing their jobs in my office, I stop for a second and enjoy it,” says Irene Krasniansky, a mom of two and operations manager.

Sandra Gordon is a mom of two who writes about parenting, health, nutrition and baby products for books, national magazines and websites.

Read all about it

Ready to get a handle on your stress-filled life? These books can help you get started:

• Put yourself at the top of your to-do list: Fed Up With Frenzy by Susan Sachs Lipman reminds parents to slow down and prioritize family time with this book of activities, games and crafts for families to enjoy together. (Source Books, $15) All-Day Energy by Syd Hoffman offers 101 easy tips to focus on self-improvement.

(All-Day Publishing, $12) • Eat well: The Eat, Drink, and Be Gorgeous Project by Esther Blum, M.S., R.D., C.D.N., C.N.S. presents a research-driven program with food and fitness tips, recipes and a log to track your progress. (Chronicle Books, $15) • Determine your stress triggers: The Little Book of Stress Relief by David Posen, M.D., will help readers to identify and work to adjust stress triggers. (Firefly Books, $20) • Take notes: Organize Now! week-by-week guide and day-by-day organizer by Jennifer Ford Berry provide a road map to organizational success broken up into weekly segments to make the transition manageable. (Better Way Books, $17 each)

November 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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CSI: Camp DaKaNi December 17-21 | 9am-3:30pm | $165 Something has happened at Camp DaKaNi and we need your help! Your children will become CSI agents and work to solve the crime using CSI techniques including finger printing, code breaking, tool and track casting, and many more fun activities. * Before and After Care available. Call for more information.

Register Today!

www.campfireusa-ok.org | 405-254-2080 Camp DaKaNi 3309 East Hefner Road, OKC, OK 73131

Problem Solvers Helpful Family Products

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

Problem:

Cold weather outside = cold toes inside.

Solution:

Snoozies slippers are durable, comfortable and machine washable for kids and adults. ($12, www.yoursnoozies.com)

Problem:

Your child has taken over your smart phone to play “Angry Birds.”

Solution:

Let him play in real life with K’Nex Angry Birds activity sets for real-life building fun. ($30, www.angrybirds.com)

Problem:

You can’t convince them to take their vitamins when you don’t like to take one, either.

Solution:

Marz sprays are vegetablebased and come in formulas for kids, vitamin C, B-vitamins for energy and melatonin and valerian for rest. ($15+, www. marzsprays.com)

Problem:

The fruit spoils faster than you can eat it.

Solution:

Dehydrate it with Ronco’s 5-tray dehydrator, which can be used to preserve many different fresh foods. ($40, www.ronco.com)

Problem:

Your sticky yoga mat is getting icky.

Solution:

Aurorae’s Yoga Mat bonds a standard mat with a microfiber towel for a slip-free, washable surface. ($70, www. auroraeyoga.com)

Problem:

Your desk has become that place where paper comes to hide.

Solution:

The Book Cubby desk organizer has a place for papers, books and even chargers for your portable electronics. ($40, www. greatusefulstuff.com)

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November 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Focus on Education Manners Today, Job Success Tomorrow

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hris Morriss, international protocol officer for the State of Oklahoma, got one of her first jobs as a teen at Six Flags in Arlington, Texas, where all employees were judged on their manners, adherence to a strict dress code and the way they greeted customers. Today, Morriss is a key player on Governor Mary Fallin’s International Team, which works to promote Oklahoma in the global economy. Based on her personal and professional experiences, Morriss shares some advice for parents preparing their teenagers or college graduates for interviewing in today’s job market.

“Even as teenagers, your children will be in competition with others, and having the right knowledge and manners might give them the advantage,” Morriss said. “We are all human and we prefer to do business with people we know and like… We’re trying to make a connection and good manners make a difference.”

Look the Part

For job interviews, it’s important to explain to teenagers or new college graduates that they should dress in the uniform of the business sector they’re entering and a level above the job they’re applying for.

“In preparing for the interview, parents should advise their young people to make sure their

hair and nails are clean and well-groomed, and shoes are polished,” Morriss said.

“Forget the perfume or cologne; avoid harsh makeup or dangling jewelry or anything that makes noise. Hide tattoos, and men should not wear earrings unless they’re interviewing for a job in a business sector where such accessories are the norm.”

Longtime employment expert James “Jim” Farris is president of James Farris

Career Training at Moore-Norman Technology Center

Is it ever too early for students to begin considering their career goals? Programs at MooreNorman Technology Center (MNTC) invite junior high and high school students to start thinking about their goals, and thinking about the skills needed to make them a reality.

Students can earn high school computer and lab science credits through courses such as web design and pre-nursing. College credits that are transferable toward Associate Degree credit at OKCCC, OSU-OKC and Rose State can be earned in fields such as Carpentry, PreEngineering and more.

“The design of our classes for high school students is such that they get an accurate experience of workplace expectations and industry demands. Some students know exactly what careers interest them by 15 or 16 years-old, but there are always others would like to explore their options. MNTC provides opportunities for both types of students,” said MNTC Media and Creative Coordinator Anna Trowbridge.

Classes at MNTC are free for students in the Moore and Norman school districts, and students are selected for the program through a rigorous application process that includes career assessment tests and personal interviews to ensure that the career-focused classes are a good pairing. “High school students at MNTC generally have an idea about what work in a certain career filed is like, but after a few semesters in a class like Pre-Nursing, they walk away with industry certifications, a work portfolio and sometimes even internship experience,” says Trowbridge.

Other similar programs exist at technology centers across the metro area, including Francis Tuttle and Metro Technology Centers. For a complete list of the local technology centers in the CareerTech System, visit www.okcareertech.org/technologycenters.

For more information about MNTC and programs for teens (and adults), visit www. mntechnology.com/futurenow or call 405-364-5763.

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Associates, a local full-service human resources consulting firm. He’s seen firsthand the negative effects of people going into professional situations unprepared for business.

“One of my client’s daughters came in and she is a really neat and smart lady, but she had this goth look, including wild-colored hair,” Farris said. “I finally told her that she wasn’t going to have a chance at a corporate job until she changed her look, because she needed to represent the image of the company both at work and to the outside world.”

He said he was afraid he had offended the young lady because he didn’t see her for six to eight months. Then, a young woman who was professionally dressed, with an attractive, natural hair color and style, came into his office.

“It was the same young lady,” Farris said. “I didn’t even recognize her. She said she had taken my advice, got hired by a great company and had come in to thank me.”

Be Prepared

Morriss recommends that interviewees should also carry a nice looking pen, bring extra copies of their resumes and bring business or calling cards with their contact information.

“Another important step should happen the night before a job interview, they should try to imagine the outcome they want from the interview, be calm and confident and create a good aura of professionalism. Before the interview, they should turn off any cell phones and electronics, and bring up that calming vision.”

Body Language and Good Manners

Tulsa’s Rachel Wagner is a certified business etiquette expert and owner of Rachel Wagner Etiquette and Protocol. She said a technique called “BLT” has helped her to teach young people to present themselves with confidence and in a positive light. And just what is BLT?

“You must be believable, likeable and trustworthy to get a leg up on the competition,” Wagner said. “A lot of BLT is about your interpersonal personal skills and having a high IQ in manners. People will make their first impression of you in just 10 seconds upon meeting you, so dress professionally and understand that 85 percent of your job success will be connected to your people skills and manners, while only 15 percent is based on your background, education and training.

“Good manners set people apart and you want to convey warmth and creditability, so leave your cell phone in the car because a Disco Inferno ringtone doesn’t give the most professional impression and we can still hear your phone on vibrate. While you’re at it, give yourself a professional ringtone, voicemail message and Google yourself and clean up your online image on Facebook and other websites, especially delete any compromising photos.”

At the interview, good behavior and manners will make an impact. Morriss also recommends a firm handshake (neither too hard nor to soft), as well as good eye contact. Don’t be too familiar by using the interviewer‘s first name. Interviewees should wait to be told where to sit, remember not to slouch or cross their legs, but look comfortable with their feet on the floor instead.

Farris agrees. “Good manners are extremely important to win people [over] because employers want to hire people they want to be around,” says Farris. Using good manners shows your potential employer that you have the potential to treat their customers and clients with the same respect, which is key to an employer seeking new employees.

And it goes beyond the actual interview.

“Once the interview ends, they should shake hands and thank the interviewer for his or

her time,” says Morriss. “As they leave, they should make mental notes of things that were said in the interview for their thank you notes, which should be mailed out the same day because thank you notes make a huge impression.”

By paying attention to details of personal appearance, projecting an air of confidence and courtesy and ultimately minding their best manners, your child can take the first step towards launching the career of their dreams.

Kevan Goff-Parker is a longtime awardwinning writer, editor and communications leader who has worked for various top companies in Oklahoma, overseas and in Washington state.

She said it is never too early to learn how to give a proper handshake and maintain good eye contact in order to stand out and show you’re a good listener.

November 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Local Shopping The Gourmet Yarn Company: Deliciously Creative

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argaret Shroeder honestly does not know how long she has been knitting and crocheting, but she recollects that it has been a part of her life for as long as she can remember. She was taught to knit by her German grandmother, despite the fact that her grandmother had trouble reading the patterns, which were written in English. “When I started knitting, it was thought of as being beneath a woman to do something so domestic and not supporting the women’s lib movement,” Schroeder explains. “But now it is making a resurgence.

It has become really popular among young people.” And it is this very resurgence that makes her store, The Gourmet Yarn Company, a popular gathering place for knitters and crocheters of all ages.

Becoming Gourmet

Schroeder says her friends and fellow knitters are to blame for the retail venture that she embarked on in 2004. “We were tired of having to travel out-of-state for quality supplies, so I blame it wholeheartedly on them” she laughs. “But I felt there was a real need for a store like this in Oklahoma City.”

The Gourmet Yarn Company moved to their current location, east of Lake Hefner Parkway on Britton Road, just over three years ago. “It was a good move because it gave us more visibility, a larger classroom, and, of course, more space for yarn,” Schroeder explains.

“We are one store that loves the winter,” Schroeder says. “We actually see an influx of customers with colder weather and the holidays.” She says that knitting hats and scarves are among the most popular requests this time of year and the store has both the inventory and the classes to help with handmade gifts. “We have a novelty yarn that

makes a really cute scarf using only the knit stitch,” Schroeder says—and that is just one of the many reasons to visit. “We have the largest inventory around,” she explains. “We are always looking for another reason for our customers to come back in.”

A Different Type of Store

Operating a knitting store is slightly different than running other retail outlets, Schroeder points out. “I can’t just unpack items and put them on the shelf,” she says. “We have to also produce items to showcase our products. So, it’s no longer just a matter of knitting what I want, it becomes production knitting to have the right samples in the store.” The risk of this type of undertaking? “I’ve found I need stress release from the one thing that used to be my stress release!” Schroeder jokes.

For those who knit or crochet for pleasure, The Gourmet Yarn Company provides a large selection of yarns and accessories. The store also stocks a wide variety of needles, hooks, books, patterns, purse handles, trim, buttons, bags and other accessories. “Our selection of yarns is constantly expanding,” she explains.

“We currently have yak, buffalo and possum yarn!”

“We strive to service all levels of customers,” Schroeder explains. “We have everything from high-end yarn to yarn for everyday use, in all price ranges.”

level, from very beginners to advanced. “We really encourage anyone who is interested in the fiber arts to take a class to learn the basics,” she explains. “It is possible to teach yourself, but it often leads to bad habits.

The best way is to learn the proper method right off the bat.” Class offerings change on a monthly basis and also include a weekly “Project Help” class for those who need help starting or finishing a project.

The store also offers a Knit-In on the second Saturday of each month from 4:00–8:00pm, a potluck gathering of knitters and crocheters with fun door prizes, including books, yarn and every knitter’s dream—the opportunity to win store credit.

More Than Just a Stitch

Schroeder says the most rewarding part of operating The Gourmet Yarn Company is watching people learn and develop new skills while developing a love for knitting or crocheting. “It seems like it is such a stressful time for everyone. So much is flying at us all the time,” she explains. “Knitting is a rhythmic, Zen-like experience. It has been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce stress and feed your creative side.” And the best part is that it works around your schedule. “It is the perfect thing to do while kids practice or while you are sitting in the carpool lane,” Schroder says. “And you have something beautiful to show for it in the end.”

Serving Every Skill Level

The Gourmet Yarn Company also provides knitting and crocheting classes and private lessons on an ongoing basis. “We keep our class size very limited to keep our studentto-instructor ratio low,” Schroeder says. “We want each student to get lots of individual attention.” Classes are offered for every skill

Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

What do customers love most?

“Selection. The sheer amount of merchandise that we have,” Schroeder says. “We are often told that we are the best yarn store that they have ever been in!”

The Gourmet Yarn Company

2915 West Britton Road, Oklahoma City 405-286-3737, www.gourmetyarnco.com Monday–Wednesday, 10am–6pm; Thursday, 10am–8pm; Friday, 10am–6pm; Saturday, 10am–5pm; Sunday, noon–5pm* (*October 1–March 1 only)

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Your Healthy Family Living With Muscular Dystrophy

T

his month, millions of families across the country gather around the table to give thanks for the blessings in their lives. I know I will be among them, as I am beyond grateful for my two beautiful little girls—for their health, our home and for the many joys we’ve encountered in the past year, as well as a host of good friends and extended family who have supported us. How much harder would it be, however, if we didn’t have the gift of good health? I faced a few significant health issues this year, and I have to admit, there were times when I was more or less ready to throw in the proverbial towel. I couldn’t imagine facing up to a progressive disease like muscular dystrophy every day of my life, but 28-year-old Kim Hill of Edmond does exactly that, and does it with an uncompromising spirit.

Diagnosis

Kim was only a year old when she was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy type 2, which causes weakness in the muscles closest to the center of the body, such as the shoulders, hips, thighs and upper back, and often affects the respiratory system. This form of muscular dystrophy is commonly diagnosed in children who begin showing signs of weakness at 6–18 months of age.

While these children typically never stand or walk, they are able to maintain a sitting position at least some point in their lives.

Progress varies greatly, and in Hill’s case, movement is extremely limited.

“I have a feeding tube, a tracheotomy and I am on a ventilator. I can only slightly move my fingers myself,” explains Hill. To compensate for these physical challenges, she uses a motorized wheelchair. “I can speak, but I am difficult to understand, so I use a computer for the majority of my communication. I operate the computer with the use of a switch and an onscreen mouse and onscreen keyboard.”

Working To Help Others

In spite of her physical limitations, Kim’s attitude is positive and upbeat. At age eight, she was featured on the local Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) telethon, and soon became an MDA Goodwill Ambassador.

In an effort to increase awareness and understanding about Muscular Dystrophy, she’s participated in various advocacy and support groups over the years and has acted as a spokesperson at fundraising events. In 2008, she was awarded the Robert Boss Personal Achievement Award for the state of Oklahoma. Established in 1992, the national awards program recognizes the

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Kim Hill pictured with parents, Michael and Connie.

accomplishments and community service achievements of people with disabilities caused by any of the diseases in the MDA program.

Hill graduated with honors from Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor’s degree in political science. She’s a member of the National Honor Society and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, and was a recipient of a prestigious scholarship on campus. In addition to participating in several political campaigns, Hill worked as a research analyst for Ernest Istook during his 2006 gubernatorial campaign. “I would like to eventually earn my Master’s Degree, but right now I am looking for a job that I could do from home on my computer, such as research analyst or fact-checker. If anyone reading this knows of anything…” she says with a playful smile.

Personal Best

Her accomplishments would be impressive even for a person with no health challenges.

But, for someone with such daunting physical limitations, what she has overcome to reach her goals is difficult for most of us to even comprehend. When asked how she is able to maintain such a positive outlook, she says, “I have good days and bad, just like anyone

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | November 2012

else. I focus on my faith and that there is a reason that I’m still here. I appreciate the little things, and realize that everyone has struggles. Mine are just more obvious.”

I know exactly what I can’t do, but the possibilities are really endless when it comes to the things I can do!

As she gathers with family to give thanks this month, Kim says she is most grateful for her family, particularly her parents. “For all their sacrifices, and for always encouraging me to look far beyond my limitations. I know exactly what I can’t do, but the possibilities are really endless when it comes to the things I can do!” she says.

To learn more about the MDA program, including how you can get involved, visit mda.org.

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

November 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Holiday River Parade

RD

The 8th Annual Oklahoma City Holiday River Parade will be held on Friday, November 23 at 6:00pm on the Oklahoma River. This free family event has become an Oklahoma City holiday tradition during Thanksgiving weekend, attracting more than 300,000 people each year.

FRIDAY 6 PM

The River Parade features a parade of boats, fireworks and an appearance by Santa himself.

Proceeds benefit the Oklahoma River Foundation Fund, which funds improvements on the Oklahoma River. For more information, call 405-630-7668 or visit www.okcparade.com.

For additional holiday events in the metro, visit our 2012 Holiday Fun Guide at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/holiday-fun.

Photo courtesy of the Oklahoma City Holiday River Parade.

8TH

ANNUAL

30TH

11TH-12TH Veterans Day Events

OKC Thunder

Hometown Heroes Slide

To honor our brave military members, venues in the metro will offer free admission and special activities for Veteran’s Day. On Sunday, November 11, the Oklahoma Zoo and National Cowboy & Western History Museum will offer free admission for all active duty, active reservists and military retirees and five guests. Parades honoring Veterans will be held in Norman (Sunday, November 11, 2:00pm) and Midwest City (Monday, November 12, 10:00am).

The 45th Infantry Division Museum (2145 NE 36th) will host a free Veterans Day Ceremony on Monday, November 12 at 10:00am honoring veterans from all branches and time periods. More information about each event is available in our events calendar or online at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/calendar.

The Oklahoma City Thunder returns this month to the Chesapeake Energy Arena for the 2012–13 season. Following the excitement of winning their first Western Conference championship last season, the Thunder plays 12 games in the month of November, including the home season opener on Friday, November 2 at 7:00pm versus the Portland Trail Blazers. Thunder Alley will be open before select games, offering family-friendly fun. Kids can join the Devon Thunder Kids Club beginning November 1.

Fans will delight in joining Rumble the Bison, familiar faces from last season and talented new players on the court as the Thunder kicks off their fifth season. For more information, visit www.nba. com/thunder.

The 4R Performance Horses Hometown Heroes Slide brings together National Reining Horse Association reiners, Oklahoma City firefighters and police officers in a special benefit for the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, held Friday, November 30 at 6:00pm. Held at the State Fairgrounds Arena, this good-natured competition features veteran police officers and firefighters working with NRHA freestyle competitors to demonstrate day-to-day working ranch maneuvers that unleash a horse’s pure athletic ability. The event also features Formula 1’s Michael Schumacher as part of the reining competition.

General admission tickets begin at $11 and children ages 10 and under are free. For more information, visit www.nrhafuturity.com.

Photo courtesy of the Oklahoma City Zoo.

Photo courtesy of the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Photo courtesy of the National Reining Horse Association.

November 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Quick Reference 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 Museum of Osteology 10301 S. Sunnylane Rd, OKC 814-0006, www.museumofosteology.org 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 522-0765, 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.

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Daily Events

Q

Editor's note: This symbol Q indicates a holiday special event. Find an expanded version of the Holiday Fun Guide at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/holiday-fun.

November 2 • Friday Chemistry Day at Science Museum Oklahoma includes inquiry stations, team & individual chemistry competitions & live chemistry demonstrations. 9am4pm.

Q FREE Crafts for Kids “Colors of Fall Wreath” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) has children ages 3 & up creating an autumn decoration. 11am-3pm. 8588778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

OKC Thunder vs. Portland Trail Blazers at the Chesapeake Energy Arena. $10 & up. 7pm. www.nba. com/thunder. Other home games this month: 11/4, 6, 9, 11, 14, 18, 21, 26, 28, 30.

OKC Barons vs. Houston Aeros at the Cox Convention Center. 7pm. Tickets $16 & up. www. okcbarons.com. Other home games this month: 11/3, 13, 16, 17.

Marcia Ball at the Sooner Theatre (101 E Main, Norman) features the singer/pianist performing rhythm & blues fused with rock-n-roll. $40 & up. 8pm. 321-9600, www.soonertheatre.org.

November 2–3 Q FREE Fancy! and Friends Winter Market at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S Boulevard, Edmond) features artwork, home decor, jewelry, crafts & more. Friday, 11am-5pm; Saturday, 9am-3pm. www. fancylikethat.com.

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.

Camp on the Catwalk at the Myriad Botanical Gardens Crystal Bridge & Water Plaza Room gives kids & caregiver a chance to camp in sleeping bags on the catwalk. Features a lizard hunt, make your own chocolate & gum, a pizza dinner, snacks & breakfast.

1 adult per 3 children. $20 per child, FREE for adult members; $25 per child, $15 per adult for nonmembers.

7pm-8am. 297-3995, www.myriadgardens.org.

The Girlie Show at Farmer’s Public Market Building (311 S Klein) features art, craftsmanship & more from female vendors of handcrafted goods. $15 advance, $20 at door on Friday (ages 18 & up); $5 on Saturday, FREE for children 12 & under. Friday, 7-11pm; Saturday, noon-5pm. www.thegirlieshow.net.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | November 2012

OKC Philharmonic – Disco Days & Boogie Nights at the Civic Center Music Hall features classic hits of disco & anthem rock including Bohemian Rhapsody, I Will Survive, Saturday Night Fever & more. $15 & up. 8pm.

842-5387, www.okcphilharmonic.org.

Q Terror on 10th Street Haunted Thanksgiving (2005 NW 10). $7. Fridays & Saturdays, 7-10pm. 2321816. Also held 11/9-10, 16-17 & 23-24.

FREE Old North Tours at UCO (100 N University, Edmond) are tours of the university's oldest building, sharing the historical significance of this landmark.

Friday, 10:15am; Saturday, 10:45am. www.uco.edu/ homecoming.

November 2–4 The Wizard of Oz at Rose State Performing Arts Theatre (6420 SE 15, Midwest City) is a musical based on the classic novel by L. Frank Baum. Friday-Saturday, 7:30pm, Sunday, 2pm. 733-7673, www.rose.edu.

November 3 • Saturday Q FREE Kids Workshop “Turkey Napkin Holder” at Home Depot Stores for children ages 5-12. Kids keep their project & receive a FREE apron, pin & certificate of achievement. Held the first Saturday monthly, 9amnoon. www.homedepot.com.

FREE National Weather Festival at the National Weather Center (120 David L Boren, Norman) highlights weather-related organizations & activities in central Oklahoma with hourly weather balloon launches, children’s activities, storm research vehicle displays, a storm chaser car show & more. 9am-1pm. www.norman. noaa.gov/events/nwf.

Q FREE Pumpkin Harvest Craft Festival at the Robertson Activity Center (1200 Lakeshore, Yukon) features over 40 craft booths, pumpkin patch, bake sale and more. 9am-4pm. 350-8937, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

Zoo Careers Program at the OKC Zoo Education Center for ages 13 & up provides information on what it takes to have a zoo/aquarium career, how to find & apply for jobs, and how to gain career experience. $15 ZooFriends members, $18 nonmembers, includes zoo admission. 10-11:30am. 425-0218.

FREE Homecoming Parade on the UCO campus & downtown Edmond features grand marshal Russell Westbrook. 10am. www.uco.edu/homecoming.

Q Preschool Pumpkin Roll at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang) for ages 8 & under to see how far they can roll their old pumpkins, plus games & more. $3 per child. 10am. 376-3411, www.cityofmustang.org.

Dolls, Dancers & Deities Workshop at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History for grades 1-3 teaches about Kachinas in Southwestern cultures through stories, artifacts crafts & exhibits. Preregister. $10 members, $15 nonmembers. 10am-noon.

FREE Saturdays for Kids – Strength of Spirit at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.

Children will make a colorful original word & picture collage. Includes FREE museum admission for children and one accompanying adult. Preregister. 10am-noon.

FREE Family Fat Tire Festival at Lake Thunderbird State Park features come & go guided trail rides for all ages & abilities, helmet fitting, bike safety checks, inflatables & giveaways. 10am-2pm. johnjoyceplus5@ yahoo.com.

FREE Peter Pan & Tinkerbelle Story Time at Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen) is a magical adventure with Peter & Tink. 10:30-11:30am. 418-8881, www.uptownkidsstyle.com.

All About Pies at the Myriad Botanical Gardens is a pie-making class for families. Participants will roll dough & make a fresh mixed fruit or apple pie filling to take home & bake. $10 members, $15 nonmembers. 1-3pm.

297-3995, www.myriadgardens.org.

The Great Escape at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang) provides hotdogs, crafts, basketball, rock wall, game room & group games for children ages 6-12. $15.

6-11pm. 376-3411, www.cityofmustang.org

November 4 • Sunday Discount-Day/Food Drive at Science Museum Oklahoma supports Yukon's Manna Pantry. Donate canned goods or non-perishable item to receive BuyOne-Get-One-Free general admission. 11am-6pm.

FREE Genticorum: Musique Et Chansons Traditionnelles Quebecoises at the Downtown Library features traditional music and songs from Quebec from a popular new wave French-Canadian band. 2-3pm.

Also held: 11/5 Warr Acres & Midwest City, 11/6 Edmond & Bethany, 11/7 Choctaw, 11/8 Northwest & Belle Isle, 11/9 The Village & Del City.

Winter Wind Concert Series at the Performing Arts Studio (200 S Jones, Norman) features singersongwriter, Radoslav Lorkovic. $15 & up. 7pm. 307-9320, www.pasnorman.org. Also held: 11/18 (Peter Mulvey), 12/2 (Sam Baker).

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

November 6 • Tuesday FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square Mall’s Lego Store for ages 6-14 to build a new model on the first Tuesday of every month. Quantities limited.

5pm. 840-9993, www.stores.lego.com.

November 6–11 Mary Poppins at the Civic Center Music Hall features the story & songs from one of the most popular Disney films of all time. $20 & up. Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm; Sunday, 2pm & 7pm.

800-869-1451, www.celebrityattractions.com.

November 8 • Thursday Wine Through Time at the Edmond Historical Society

& Museum (431 S Boulevard, Edmond) benefits the museum & features 16 types of wines, hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants, live jazz, auctions & more. $50 & up. 6-8:30pm. 340-0078, www.edmondhistory.org.

Fashion with Passion: A Night of Fashion & Charity at the Outlet Shoppes at OKC (7624 W Reno) introduces new stores with festivities and benefits the Junior Women’s League of OKC. $10. 6-9pm. 787-3700, www.theoutletshoppesatoklahomacity.com.

November 8–10 Into the Woods presented by Lyric’s Thelma Gaylord Academy at the Plaza Theatre (1727 NW 16) intertwines the plots of several Brothers Grimm fairy tales. $10.

Thursday-Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 2pm & 7pm. 524-9312, www.lyrictheatreokc.com.

November 9 • Friday Homeschool Program at the OKC Zoo Education Center provides monthly programs focusing on a different group of animals with animal encounters & exhibit tours. 10am. 425-0218, www.okczooed.com.

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.

Parent’s Night Out at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise, Edmond) features craft, pizza dinner & fun for ages 4 & up while parents enjoy a night out. $25, $20 additional friend or sibling. 6:30-10pm. 340-7584, www.unpluggits.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.org.

November 9–10 Just Between Friends Children's Consignment Event at the Church of the Harvest (16000 N Western, Edmond). Many items half-price on Saturday. Friday, 10am-7pm; Saturday, 9am-1pm. www.jbfsale.com/ edmond.

November 9–11 FREE Admission at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art in celebration of Dad’s Day Weekend.

November 10 • Saturday Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma Archery Classes for girls in grades 2-12 teach proper ways to use a bow & safety procedures to follow when shooting.

Preregister. $7.50 members, $19.50 nonmembers. 9am & 10:30am. 800-698-0022, www.gswestok.org. Also held 11/17.

FREE Crafts for Kids “Flying Fun Airplane Craft” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) for ages 3 & up.

11am-3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

OU Football vs. Baylor at Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman. Time TBA. www.soonersports.com.

NOVEMBER S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Metropolitan Library System www.metrolibrary.org

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 Northwest ..........5600 NW 122nd........606-3580 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 SW OKC............... 2201 SW 134th.........979-2200 Tecumseh............114 N Broadway........598-5955 Other home games this month: 11/24 vs. OSU. OSU Football vs. West Virginia at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater. Time TBA. www.okstate.com.

Other home games this month: 11/17 vs. Texas Tech.

Game Day Camps for Kids at Oklahoma WONDERtorium (308 W Franklin, Stillwater). Open play for children 3-12 while parents attend OSU football. Open 1 hour prior to kickoff on home game days. Preregister. $60 per child. 533-3333, www. okwondertorium.org/gameday. Also held: 11/17.

Ready, Set, Hut! Family Program at the OKC Zoo Education Center features a football-themed scavenger safari on zoo grounds. Preregister. $5 child, $10 adult.

10am-noon. 425-0218.

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FREE Snakes 101 at the Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial) features a presentation about the basics of snakes. 2pm. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/ martin_park.

Edmond’s Got Talent presented by the Fine Arts Institute of Edmond at Edmond North High School (215 W Danforth, Edmond) is a talent show with performers of all ages. $7 advance, $10 at door. 7pm. www. edmondfinearts.com.

November 10–11 FREE Alpaca Blast Off at the Lazy E Arena (9600 Lazy E, Guthrie) features Alpacas, pictures, holiday market & informational booths as well as spinning, weaving & felting demonstrations. www. alpacasofoklahoma.com.

November 10–25 Tales of Cats & Dogs Exhibit at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee) includes artwork featuring dogs, cats & other animals created by Oklahoma artists. Bring a new pet product for Saving Pets at Risk (SPAR) for FREE admission during the run of the exhibit. 878-5300, www.mgmoa.org. Opening reception: 11/10, 1-4pm.

November 11 • Sunday FREE Veteran’s Day Admission to the OKC Zoo for all active duty, active reserves & military retirees and up to 5 guests.

FREE Admission for Veterans at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum offers FREE admission for all active duty, active reserve, Ready Reserve Service members, National Guardsmen, Coalition Forces members & retirees, American Legion members & VFW members & up to five guests with military ID. 10am-5pm.

FREE Curriculum Fair at Mount St. Mary Catholic High School (2801 S Shartel). 1-3pm. 631-8885, www. mountstmary.org.

FREE 2012 Veteran’s Day Parade & Memorial Ceremony in Norman begins at Eufaula & James Garner & ends with a Memorial Ceremony in Reaves Park (2501 S Jenkins). Parade, 2pm; Memorial Ceremony, 4pm. www.normanfun.com.

Anthony Bourdain Guts & Glory Tour at Rose State College Performing Arts Theatre (6420 SE 15, Midwest City) features the internationally-renowned chef, author & television host sharing insights about his life’s work & travels. $47.50 & up. 7pm. 733-7673, www. rose.edu.

FREE Principal’s Coffee at Mount St. Mary Catholic High School (2801 S Shartel). Is for interested parents to learn more about the school. 8:45am. 631-8885, www.mountstmary.org. Also held: 11/29.

FREE Trip Around the World at the Capitol Hill Library introduces children in grades 3-6 to the different cultures in Asia, Africa & Latin America. Preregister.

6-7:30pm.

November 15–18 Puss in Boots presented by the Fine Arts Institute of Edmond Jr. Theatre Company (27 E Edwards, Edmond) performed by students in grades 2-7. $5. ThursdayFriday, 7pm; Saturday, 3pm & 7pm; Sunday, 3pm. 3404481, www.edmondfinearts.com.

November 16 • Friday Harn Homestead Homeschool Day at the Harn Homestead (1721 N Lincoln) provides hands-on learning activities for homeschool students ages 6-12 in an oldfashioned schoolhouse, barn & farmhouse. Preregister. $8. 10am-1:30pm. 235-4058, www.harnhomestead.com.

Small Works, Great Wonders Winter Art Sale at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is fundraiser featuring works from Prix de West & smaller Western works of art. $60 members, $75 nonmembers.

6-9pm.

Children’s Starlight Ball at OKC Golf & Country Club (7000 NW Grand) benefits the Children’s Hospital Foundation. $500 individual tickets. 6:30pm. www.okchf.org.

FREE Jingle Jangle Single Moms Event at People's Church OKC (800 E Britton) features Pam Kanaly & Wanda Pratt, mother of Kevin Durant. FREE childcare.

Preregister by 11/9. 6:30-8:30pm. 812-5137, www. jinglejangleevent.org.

Toast to the Arts at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art serves as an art acquisition fundraiser for ages21 & older that features international cuisine paired with champagnes & sparkling wines from around the globe.

Preregister. $35 members, $45 nonmembers. 7-9pm.

November 16–17 Assistance League Home Tour in Norman features five historic homes and funds the organization's philanthropic programs. $20 advance, $25 at event.

10am-4pm. www.norman.assistanceleague.org.

November 17 • Saturday

November 12 • Monday

FREE Cloth Diaper Basics Class at Green Bambino (5120 N Shartel). No purchase necessary. Preregister.

9-10am. 848-2330, www.green-bambino.com.

FREE Veteran’s Day Parade in Midwest City begins at Century Blvd & SE 15th Street. 10am. www. midwestcityok.org.

Craft Show/Bazaar at Earlywine Park YMCA (11801 S May). 9am-3pm. 378-0420, www.ymcaokc.org.

FREE Veterans Day Ceremony at the 45th Infantry Division Museum (2145 NE 36) honors veterans from all branches & time periods. 10am. 405-424-5313, www.45thDivisionMuseum.com.

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November 14 • Wednesday

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | November 2012

FREE America Recycles Day at the Moore Recycling Center (400 N Telephone, Moore) includes onsite electronics recycling, paper shredding (until noon) & drive-thru recycling operations. The first 25 customers will receive a FREE 3-gallon recycle bin. 9am-5pm.

793-5053, www.cityofmoore.com/america-recycles-day.

Natural Creations Jewelry at the Myriad Botanical Gardens teaches how to make earrings or a brooch from natural leaves in the Gardens & turn them into silver using precious metal clay. Preregister. $35 member, $45 nonmember. 9:30am-noon. 297-3995, www.myriadgardens.org.

FREE Lowes Build & Grow Clinic "North’s Sleigh" from Rise of the Guardians at participating Lowe's Stores invites children to complete a wooden project with a parent/guardian. Participants receive an apron, goggles, certificate and project patch. Preregister.1011am. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com.

Behind-the-Scenes Tour at the Oklahoma Aquarium gives visitors a chance to tour the Sea Turtle Experience holding facility & see animals not currently on exhibit.

First-come, first-served. Not recommended for children under 5. $10 adult, $8 youth (does not include Aquarium admission). 10:30am, 11:30am & 1:30pm.

FREE Chasing James at Green-Bambino (5120 N Shartel) features local moms in one of Oklahoma’s newest kid-friendly bands. 11-11:30am. 848-2330, www. green-bambino.com.

Q FREE Crafts for Kids “Thanksgiving Turkey Collage” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) is a Thanksgiving craft for ages 3 & up. 11am-3pm. 8588778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

Carved in Stone: the Meaning of Gravestone Graphics at the Oklahoma History Center explores the meaning behind historic gravestones. Preregister. FREE with admission. 1-3pm.

FREE Sensory Afternoon at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial). Programs will include introducing nature to the visually impaired, hearing impaired, cognitively impaired & individuals with sensitivity to environmental factors. 1-4pm. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park.

Chill Your Cheeks 5K Run at Chisholm Trail Park (500 W Vandament, Yukon) is a run through the Christmas in the Park lights display. Preregister. $25 adults, $20 youth. 4:30pm. 354-8442, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

Fort Reno Ghost Tours at Historic Fort Reno (7107 W Cheyenne, El Reno) tells tales & urban legends of haunted buildings, villainous murders, lost treasure & more. Includes tours of the fort & presentations by paranormal research teams. Preregister. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $5 children ages 5-12. 7:30pm. 262-3987, www.fortreno.org.

Blazing Colors with a French Twist presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features pianist Barry Douglas. $15 & up. 8pm. 8425387, www.okcphilharmonic.org.

November 18 • Sunday FREE Family Day at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art invites guests to explore art in the museum’s permanent collection & enjoy hands-on art activities for the entire family. 1-4pm.

November 20 • Tuesday Q Tiny Tuesdays “Thanksgiving Crowns” at the OKC Museum of Art features a come-and-go, open-ended art making experience for ages 2-5 with caregiver to create together & experiment with a variety of art media..

FREE with paid admission. 10am-noon.

Q FREE Tree Lighting at the Outlet Shoppes at OKC (7624 W Reno) features Santa as he lights the 25-foot tree in Center Court. 7pm. www. theoutletshoppesatoklahomacity.com.

Straight No Chaser at the Civic Center Music Hall is an unforgettable live act featuring a men’s a capella vocal ensemble. $29.50 & up. 8pm. www.okcciviccenter.com.

November 21 • Wednesday FREE Admission Day at the OKC Zoo for guests of all ages.

November 22 • Thursday 2012 Edmond Turkey Trot at the Downtown Edmond Community Center (28 E Main, Edmond) benefits Turning Point Ministries. Costumes, strollers & friendly, leashed dogs welcome. $26 runners, $10 walkers. 8am.

590-8665, www.edmondturkeytrot.com.

OKC Turkey Tracks 5K in Downtown OKC benefits Toys for Tots. Enjoy a pre-feast run through Downtown, Midtown & Heritage Hills. $25 & up. 8:30am. www. okturkeytracks.com.

Q FREE All Night Madness at the Outlet Shoppes at OKC (7624 W Reno) features hot chocolate & pumpkin pie while supplies last as shoppers enjoy Black Friday under the moonlight. 10pm. www. theoutletshoppesatoklahomacity.com.

November 23 • Friday Q FREE Holiday River Parade on the Oklahoma River features decorated boats & fireworks display. Viewing areas located at Regatta Park, Boathouse District & Wiley Post Park open at 4pm. 6pm. www.okcparade.com.

Q FREE SandRidge Christmas Tree Lighting Festival at the corner of Reno & Mickey Mantle features live music, food, popcorn, hot cocoa & more. 6-8pm.

235-3500, www.downtownindecember.com.

November 23–25, Q Scuba Santa at the Oklahoma Aquarium invites guests to see & take photos of Santa among the fish in the 65,000 gallon saltwater tank. 3:30pm. Also held 12/1-2, 12/8-9 & 12/15-23 Q Thanksgiving Celebration at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Gordon Cooper Memorial, Sulphur) features Traditional Village tours with hot chocolate, Native American miniature ornament workshop, stomp dance & more. Activities FREE, admission required for exhibit halls. 580-622-7130, www. chickasawculturalcenter.com.

November 24 • Saturday Q FREE Saturdays with Santa at the Devon Rotunda (333 W Sheridan) features visits with Santa, letters to the North Pole, pictures in Santa's sleigh, crafts & more.

10am-5pm. 235-3500, www.downtownindecember.com.

Also held: 12/1, 8, 22.

FREE Crafts for Kids “I’m Sleeping Door Hanger” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) for ages 3 & up.

11am-3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

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Q Small Business Saturday encourages shoppers to support small business as they begin their holiday shopping. Check with local small businesses for special sales & incentives. www.smallbusinesssaturday.com.

November 25 • Sunday Q Sand Plum Fairy Tea presented by the Norman Ballet Company at the Nancy O’Brien Center for the Performing Arts (1809 Stubbeman, Norman) includes crafts, storytime, tea party refreshments and appearances by the Sand Plum Fairy, the Nutcracker & Santa Claus. Preregister. $18. 1pm. Event is followed by the Oklahoma Nutcracker, see below for details. 3641818, www.normanballetcompany.org.

Q Oklahoma Nutcracker presented by the Norman Ballet Company at the Nancy O’Brien Center for the Performing Arts (1809 Stubbeman, Norman) maintains the Nutcracker’s traditional storyline & Tchaikovsky score while integrating elements of Oklahoma history & natural resources. $20. 3pm. 364-1818, www. normanballetcompany.org.

November 27 • Tuesday Annual Pottery Sale & Open House at City Arts Center (3000 General Pershing). 5:30-7:30pm. 9510000, www.cityartscenter.org.

November 29 • Thursday Q Edmond Women's Club Girls Night Out at Merry Marketplace at the Oak Tree Country Club (700 W Country Club, Edmond) features holiday shopping, hors d'oeuvres, live demonstrations & more. $25 by 11/25, $30 after 11/25 or at the door. 6-10pm. www.ewc.org.

Ladies Night Out at Be Wild for Art (1006 24th Ave NW, Norman) features a reduced studio fee of $4, plus the cost of the chosen pieces. 6-9pm. 307-9971, www. bewildforart.com.

FREE Hobbit Party at the Southern Oaks Library features games, crafts & prizes for teens. Preregister.

6-7:30pm.

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November 29–December 1

Q Humphrey Abstract Christmas in the Village at Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center (507 S 4th, Enid) features activities, tours of historic buildings & musical performances. $5 adults, $3 children. 5-8pm. 580-237-1907, www.csrhc.org/ christmas-in-the-village.html.

December 1• Saturday Q NorthCare 5K & 10K Reindeer Dash at NorthCare (4436 NW 50) benefits crisis counseling for children. $20. 9:30am. 858-2831, www.northcare.com.

Q FREE Mayor’s Christmas Party for Kids at the Robertson Activity Center (1200 Lakeshore, Yukon) features Christmas crafts, letters to Santa & visits from Jinglesauras, Rudolph, Frosty & Santa Claus. 10amnoon. 354-4882, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

FREE Lowes Build & Grow Clinic "Sandman’s Plane" from Rise of the Guardians at participating Lowe's Stores invites children to complete a wooden project with a parent/guardian. Participants receive an apron, goggles, certificate and project patch. Preregister.1011am. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com.

Q FREE Saturdays for Kids – Old-Fashioned Ornament Making at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Children will make old favorites such as pinecone bird feeders & decorated snowflakes.

Preregister. Includes FREE museum admission for children and one accompanying adult. 10am-noon.

Q Gingerbread Dreams at the Myriad Botanical Gardens Terrace Room. Children make their own gingerbread house decorated with a variety of candies & frosting. $10 per child member, $15 per child nonmember. 10-11:30am. 297-3995, www. myriadgardens.org.

Breakfast with Santa at Orr Family Farm (14400 S Western) features a pancake breakfast, story time & carols with Santa. Includes one train ride & carousel ride. Price TBA. 10am-noon. 799-FARM, www. orrfamilyfarm.com. Also held: 12/8, 15.

Q FREE Christmas Bazaar at Choctaw Church of the Nazarene (1100 Harper, Choctaw) features one-stop Christmas shopping including homemade crafts & direct sales vendors. 10am-3pm. 834-2477.

Q OKC Philharmonic—The Christmas Show at the Civic Center Music Hall features music, dancing & fun for the holidays. $15 & up. Thursday, 7:30; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm. 842-5387, www.okcphilharmonic. org.

Q FREE Cowboy Christmas at Stockyards City (1305 S Agnew) features a Christmas parade including 100 Longhorn steer, rodeo cowboys, antique cars & native dancers followed by photos with “Cowboy Santa” & other festivities. 10am-noon. 235-7267, www. stockyardscity.org.

November 29–December 2

Q FREE Holiday Crafts & Tree Trimming at the Southern Oaks Library features crafts & decorating the library’s tree. Preregister. 2:30-3:30pm.

Q Journey to Bethlehem at Forest Hill Christian Church (2121 N MacArthur) features guided walking tours in a first-century, outdoor, interactive family Christmas experience. 6-9pm. 495-0439, www.fhcc.org.

November 30 • Friday Q FREE UCO WinterGlow: Miracle on 2nd Street at UCO (100 N University, Edmond) features the ceremonial lighting of Old North & a celebration in the Nigh University Center. 6-9pm. 974-2363, www.uco. edu/winterglow.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | November 2012

The Great Escape at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang, Mustang) provides hotdogs, crafts, basketball, game room & group games for children ages 6-12. $15.

6-11pm. 376-3411, www.cityofmustang.org.

December 1–2 OKC Train Show at the State Fairgrounds features the largest model train layout in the southwest. $10 adults, FREE children 12 & under. Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. 842-0518, www.okctrainshow.com.

December 2 • Sunday

December 4• Tuesday

December 6–23

Q Horseshoes & Holly Open House at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Store includes light refreshments, FREE gift-wrapping & more. 10am5pm. Also held: 12/9, 16.

FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square Mall’s Lego Store for ages 6-14 to build a new model on the first Tuesday of every month. Quantities limited. 5pm.

840-9993, www.stores.lego.com.

FREE Family Day at the OKC Museum of Art features hands-on activities, live performances, face painting, door prize drawings & more. Noon-5pm.

Q FREE Cookies with Cowboy Santa at the Outlet Shoppes at OKC (7624 W Reno) for children 12 & under to enjoy cookies & milk with Cowboy Santa. While supplies last. 6:30pm. www. theoutletshoppesatoklahomacity.com.

Q Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol presented by Oklahoma City Theatre Company at the Civic Center Music Hall is a creative twist on the Dickens classic. $20.

Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. 297-2264, www. okctheatrecompany.org.

Q FREE Cowboy Christmas Concert at the Belle Isle Library features Cowboy Jim Garling as he performs songs & tells stories from the trail. 2:30-3pm.

Q Baroque Christmas presented by the Canterbury Choral Society at the Civic Center Music Hall showcases Handel’s Messiah & Bach’s Magnificat followed by a holiday reception. $30 & up. 7pm. 2327464, www.canterburyokc.com.

December 3 • Monday FREE Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

Q FREE Tree Fest at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang) features the lighting of the Christmas trees, special guest performances, vendors & an appearance

by Santa. 6-9pm. 376-3411, www.cityofmustang.org.

Weekly Events FREE Discovery Room programs at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. See website for details.

FREE Art Moves weekdays (Monday-Friday) in downtown OKC (various locations). Performances, demonstrations, short films & discussions. Noon-1pm.

270-4892, www.artscouncilokc.com/art-moves.

Toddler Time playtime at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang). $2 or FREE with Town Center membership.

Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9am-noon. 376-3411, www. cityofmustang.org.

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).

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

FREE Tuesday Noon Tunes at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art features 30-minute concerts performed

by OU music students & faculty. Tuesdays through November 13. Noon-12:30pm.

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.

FREE Wide Open Wednesdays at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum features FREE admission on 15 consecutive Wednesdays ending November 14.

December 6• Thursday Q FREE Holiday Happening at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features pictures with Santa, live holiday music, crafts, storytelling & shopping. 5:30-8:30pm.

Q Territorial Christmas at the Harn Homestead Museum (1721 N Lincoln) features crafts, hay rides & a visit with Santa. $3 advance, $5 at door. 6-9pm. 2354058, www.harnhomestead.com.

December 6–7 Q FREE Pictures with Santa at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang). Bring your own camera.

Thursday, 10am-1pm; Friday, 5-9pm. 376-3411, www. cityofmustang.org.

FREE Norman After School Special at the Norman Library for children in grades K-2 includes books, a film & a craft. Wednesdays in November, 3:30-4:30pm.

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

231-8650.

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

FREE Norman Library Music Connection features music & story for ages 3-7 with parent. Thursdays, 7pm; Fridays, 10:30am.

Family Fun Day at Celebration Station (509 Westline) features unlimited rides & a pizza buffet for $15.99 per person. Thursdays, 4-9pm. 942-7888, www. celebrationstation.com.

Moonlight Cruises & Bayou Cruises for ages 21 & older on the Oklahoma River depart from Regatta Park Landing. Include appetizers, beverages and cash bar. Fridays & Saturdays in November. See website for pricing & schedule. www.okrivercruises.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, 11am. 340-9202, www. bestofbooksedmond.com.

December 7• Friday OKC Thunder vs. LA Lakers at the Chesapeake Energy Arena. $10 & up. 8:30pm. www.nba.com/thunder.

Other home games this month: 12/9, 12, 14, 17, 27, 31.

December 7–9 Q Winter Market at the Myriad Botanical Gardens features local artisan vendors, hot beverages, local wines, roasted nuts & musical performances. 10am8pm. FREE admission. 297-3995, www.myriadgardens. org.

Q FREE Boys Ranch Town Drive Through Living Christmas Pageant (5100 E 33, Edmond) features a 20-minute drive through a variety of scenes from the life of Christ portrayed by the residents & staff. 7-9pm.

341-3606, www.obhc.org.

FREE Skating Lessons at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36) for beginner, intermediate, advanced & featured styles. Saturdays, noon-12:45pm. 605-2758, www. skategalaxyokc.com.

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art features handson art activities. FREE with paid admission. Saturdays, 1-4pm.

All-Star Bowling for Differently-Abled Individuals at AMF Yukon Lanes (500 E Main). $8/week includes 3 games & shoes. Saturdays, 1pm. Email dbrakefield@ yahoo.com to verify schedule. 354-2516.

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.

Live Banjo Performance at the American Banjo Museum (9 E Sheridan) invites guests to enjoy a live banjo performance on Saturdays. FREE with paid admission. 3-5pm. 604-2793, www. americanbanjomuseum.com.

FREE Green Earth Rangers at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial) for teens ages 13-18 to assist the park with complex, leadership-driven conservation efforts. Sundays, call for times. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park.

FREE Open House at techJOYnt (8328 Glade) provides information about this hands-on, technology-based after-school education academy. Sundays, 2-4pm. 3455010, www.techjoynt.org.

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Ongoing Events Nov 15–Feb 15, 2013 Q FREE The Great OKCityscape Scavenger Hunt 2012 features LEGO models secretly placed at various locations around the OKC metro. Participants can "check-in" and "text in" upon locating them to qualify for cash prizes. See website for details. 601-9200, www.okcityscape.com.

Nov 15–Feb 15, 2013 OKC Beautiful SMO Upcycle Challenge at Science Museum Oklahoma is a juried exhibit of functional art/creations using upcycled materials. Opening Reception: 11/15, 6-9pm.

Market (1 & Broadway, Edmond). $10 with skates, $8 with own skates, $5 for ages 5 & under. See website for hours. 274-1638, www.expressice.com/edmondok.

Q Norman Holiday Outdoor Ice Rink at Marc Heitz Chevrolet (I-35 & Lindsey, Norman). $10 with skate rental, $8 with own skates, $5 for ages 5 & under. See website for hours. www.normanicerink.com.

November 24–January 5 Q Chesapeake Energy Snow Tubing at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark features snow tubing from the ballpark's upper deck on a hill of manmade snow. Smaller slide available for children. 90-minute sessions begin every 2 hours starting at noon. Advanced ticket purchase recommended. $10 per session. Saturdays & Sundays through 12/19, Daily 12/20-1/5, Noon-10pm. Closed 12/25.

235-3500, www.downtownindecember.com.

November 16–December 9 Through November 25 The Wizard of Oz at the Poteet Theatre (222 NW 15) features a musical adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s classic tale. $20. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. 6091023, www.poteettheatre.com.

November 23–December 30 Q FREE Water Taxi Rides on the Bricktown Canal for all ages. Cruises board on Mickey Mantle Drive across from RedHawks field. Thursday-Sunday, 6-9:30pm.

235-3500, www.downtownindecember.com.

November 23–January 1 Q FREE Automobile Alley Lights on Broadway (4th to 10th on Broadway) features 150,000+ LED lights draping the historic buildings of Automobile Alley. Dusk to dawn.

235-3500, www.downtownindecember.com.

Q FREE OG&E Garden Lights at the Myriad Botanical Gardens features beautifully illuminated gardens. 2353500, www.downtownindecember.com.

Q FREE OneMain Financial's Canal Lights on the Bricktown Canal features holiday lights accessible by foot or Water Taxi. 235-3500, www. downtownindecember.com.

November 23–February 4 Q Devon Ice Rink at the Myriad Gardens. $10 with skate rental, $7 with own skates. Monday-Tuesday, 3-8pm; Wednesday-Thursday, 3-10pm; Friday-Saturday, 10am-11pm; Sunday, 10am-8pm. 235-3500, www. downtownindecember.com.

November 23–December 9 Q White Christmas at the Sooner Theatre (101 E Main, Norman) is the holiday musical with music by Irving Berlin. $18 & up adults, $15 children 12 & under.

Friday-Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. 321-9600, www. soonertheatre.org.

November 23–January 6 Q Express Ice Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink at Festival

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Through December 22 Boo Ritson Exhibit: Homecoming at the City Arts Center (3000 General Pershing). Opening reception 10/9, 5:30pm. 951-0000, www.cityartscenter.org.

Through December 10 Oklahoma at the Movies at the Oklahoma History Center showcases the creativity & innovation of Oklahomans & their legacy of creating, starring in & watching motion pictures.

FREE Silent Witnesses at the OU Health Sciences Center (1000 Stanton L Young Blvd) includes photography by 25 acclaimed photographers featuring prosthetic legs to bring awareness to humanitarian & diplomatic efforts to stop the landmine epidemic. www. ou.edu/fjjma.

Through January 6, 2013

A Gathering of Traditions: A Centennial Celebration of Dr. Charles Marius Barbeau in Oklahoma at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History.

American Moderns, 1910-1960: From O’Keeffe to Rockwell at the OKC Museum of Art includes paintings & sculptures by a variety of artists.

November 25–January 1

Dancers & Deities: Kachinas from the James T. Bialac Native American Art Collection at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features a selection of Native American Kachina.

Q FREE North Pole Winter Wonderland Holiday Exhibit at the Myriad Botanical Gardens features holiday lights, poinsettias, North Pole mailbox for letters to Santa & a model train. Admission to the Crystal Bridge is FREE each Sunday from November 25-December 23 from 6-9pm. 297-3995, www. myriadgardens.org.

November 30–December 9 Q A Christmas Carol presented by the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre at OCU (2501 N Blackwelder) is an adaptation of the classic Dickens tale. $12 adults, $8 children ages 2-12. Thursday, 11am; Friday, 11am & 8pm; Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. 951-0011, www. oklahomachildrenstheatre.org.

November 30–December 16 Q Junie B in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells at the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre (2501 N Blackwelder) is a play adapted from Barbara Park’s popular book series. $9 adults, $6 children 2-12. Wednesday & Friday, 11am; Saturday-Sunday, 2pm. 951-0011, www. oklahomachildrenstheatre.org.

November 30–December 29 Q Lyric’s A Christmas Carol presented by Devon Energy at the Civic Center Music Hall captures the magic & joy of Christmas as the ghosts of Past, Present & Future lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a powerful journey of transformation & redemption. $40.

See website for show times. www.lyricokc.com.

Through December 9 Oklahoma & Infamy at the Oklahoma History Center includes artifacts, uniforms, interviews with veterans & personal letters. FREE admission to veterans & active duty military.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | November 2012

Southwest Visions: Paintings from the James T. Bialac Native American Art Collection at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History includes Southwest Native American paintings.

Through February 9, 2013 Echoes & Rituals: The Artwork of Robert Taylor & Harvey Pratt at Science Museum Oklahoma showcases works by two renowned Oklahoma Native American artists.

Through May 29, 2013 Crumbo Spirit Talk at the Oklahoma History Center features the art of Woody Crumbo & his children.

Through June 1, 2013 Enriched: Animal Art from the OKC Zoo at the Oklahoma History Center showcases the process of animal enrichment through painting. MondaysSaturdays.

Q

Find our comprehensive Holiday Fun Guide at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/ holiday-fun!

November 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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find the BEST 'll u o y , n o si a cc r or o here. at time of yea the area right No matter wh in s e ic o ch g in party-plann

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | November 2012

November 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Mom Gets the Last Laugh Trotting Out My Turkey

I

n the third grade, my son’s class put on a Thanksgiving program in which he starred as both a turkey and a rapper, reading an essay he wrote entitled, “Why I’m Thankful for My Education.” I value overachievement, so it was comforting to see my son following my example of excellence. As it turned out, he wasn’t the only one expected to perform.

Illustration by Emily Ball, http://emilymgball.com.

Two weeks before the show, I received a note from the music teacher, informing me that my child had been chosen to be a turkey (Chosen! Nothing better than having my child singled out for special assignments!).

Consequently I needed to cover a white T-shirt completely with feathers. Completely: all caps, bold. Use a hot glue gun, it said. If I was not able to make the costume, I was told in a condescending tone, I should call the music teacher immediately.

Ordinarily, I’m not interested in proving my worth or competing with other women via my child (I prefer to use shoes and handbags).

However, I also can’t seem to back away from a challenge. In my fervor for accomplishment, I interpreted this note as a dare.

If I sound—I don’t know… possessed?—I blame my mother. She probably couldn’t tell you what the letters in PTA stand for. Not that she wasn’t supportive, in her way. She came to all my plays and concerts and even honored my wish that she not wear sequins (most of the time). The woman just wasn’t PTA material. I think there’s a gene for it. So in my extended adolescent rebellion to be not-like-my-mother, I skipped off like a Good Mommy to the local big box craft store.

“Ordinarily, I’m not interested in proving my worth or competing with other women via my child...”

To my surprise, an entire aisle of the store was devoted to feathers. Turns out they are not cheap, especially turkey-appropriate colors like brown, white and black. I attributed the lower price point of the bolder colors to less demand (The cul-de-sac burlesque scene wasn’t exactly “happening.”).

I compromised, buying one packet of suitable feathers and a value pack for filler. How badly could a fuchsia and chartreuse turkey stand out from the crowd anyway?

I moved on to the T-shirt aisle and picked up a child’s small in “natural.” I figured the color would mask any ill effects of my feather scrimping. If I happened to run out of feathers mid-wing, my son would have a turkey-ish color showing through. I congratulated myself on this improvement over the suggested white.

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That night, I waited impatiently for the glue to melt in the barrel of my trusty, but ancient, glue gun. Then I got to sticking. Sure, I attached the first few feathers to my own shirt and yes, I burned off two fingerprints, but overall, for a virgin turkey costume designer, I rocked it. After thirty minutes, I called it good, even if there were a few spots of natural showing through.

Able? I’ll show them able!

The feedback I got the next day after the Thanksgiving Extravaganza dress rehearsal, suggested otherwise.

“You forgot the sleeves,” a neighbor girl noticed. As if turkey legs have feathers.

“Pink feathers are for princesses,” came the next critique.

“There’s boogers on it,” said a kid who clearly did not understand the physics of dried hot glue.

And those were just the kids. The real assessment of my merit as a mother was yet to come. Those super-PTA moms would surely notice that I in fact, did not rock the turkey costume. But my son, ever the encourager, told me not to worry. He pointed

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | November 2012

out that one kid had worn a plain T-shirt.

Plain! That proved I’d done a better job than at least one mom.

On show day, as I took my seat in the cafeteria, tens of turkeys graced the bleacher stage. One actually looked like a very large turkey. A few evoked Vegas acts. The rest looked like mine—scrappy kids with feathers glued to their shirts. My son was not the most attractive faux fowl, but—objectively—his “Turkey Boogie” blew the others kids out of the barnyard. And, not to brag or exaggerate, but his essay demonstrated his ability to lead the free world one day.

Satisfied, relieved, redeemed—I enjoyed the program, distracted only for a moment by my pity for all those other moms, the competitive ones whose kids had no T-shirt showing through.

Lela Davidson is the author of Blacklisted from the PTA, a collection of irreverent essays about motherhood and the modern family. She blogs about marriage, motherhood, and lifeafter-40 on www.afterthebubbly.com.