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NOVEMBER 2008

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MetroFamily Magazine’s Parent University presents

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Parent Session 6:30-8:30pm (registration 6pm) New Covenant United Methodist Church, Edmond Child Care Available Learn to help your children build and support self concept —and much more

For more information or to purchase tickets go to MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ Parent-University or call (405) 340-1404

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Celebrating Ten Years!

November 2008

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W H AT Y OU C AN D O

Y O U H AV E THE POWER TO LIGHT T H E WAY. To use energy more wisely, try these five money-saving ideas. One: Replace lights with Compact Fluorescent Lightbulbs (CFLs), which use 75% less electricity than regular bulbs. Two: If it’s 10 years or older, consider replacing your heating and cooling system with a high-efficiency unit. Three: Insulate, caulk and weatherstrip your home. Four: Set your water heater thermostat at 120°F, and also add an insulation blanket. Five: Plant trees near the house for summer shade and winter sunlight.

For more energy-efficient, money-saving tips, visit www.oge.com or call an OG&E specialist

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November 2008

Celebrating Ten Years!

November 2008

Health & Wellness 42 Calendar Events and activities

32 Character First Trait of the month: gratefulness

6

Dear MetroFamily Editor’s Note

40 Exploring Oklahoma All aboard the Heartland Flyer

18 Family Finances Dealing with the economy

10 Family Shorts Our Health & Wellness issue is all about ways for your family to eat better, get moving, and stay healthy.

News you can use

22 ImagineArt Inspired by van Gogh

8

In Touch with Relationships Fighting fair

34 Iron Moms The year in review

24 Let’s Eat Lee’s Sandwiches

27

Car Guide 2008 Find the

perfect family-friendly, environmentally-friendly, wallet-friendly car for you!

20

36 Oklahoma Reads

Weight Loss Truths 9 hot tips

to kick your weight loss and healthy living into high gear.

Book reviews

14 Q & A with the Beasleys Negative self-talk

38 Your Healthy Family

On our cover (and above): 2008 Cover Model Blake Wellman. Learn more about Blake and his family on page 6.

Healthy online tips

Cover Photographer:© Kathryne Taylor

November 2008

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Dear MetroFamily, November is here, and with it, Thanksgiving.

It begs the question—what is your family thankful for?

There are so many big things to worry about right now, trouble with the economy, gas prices, the election. There’s certainly enough for any of us to have difficulty finding something to be thankful for. I’ve been encouraged to get back to the basic values that sustain me and give my life focus, such as raising responsible children, helping others in need, and being a good citizen. As someone told me recently, it’s not about what we may have lost in this current crisis, it’s what we have left, such as family, friends, good health, and happy memories.

Speaking of happy memories—that photo is from 1992, when I made my first Thanksgiving turkey. It was tasty, as was the stuffing (my now-infamous recipe of sausage-cornbread stuffing), the giblet gravy was, well, let’s just say not so tasty. It remained largely untouched. We were young newlyweds and we opened our very modest home to our single friends who were away from home for the holiday, all of us serving in the air force in Washington DC. We did not have family with us, but these friends were our family and we were thankful to be together.

As you move through your month, try not to be overwhelmed by those big things, and embrace the important things instead. Remember that every person you encounter is likely experiencing their own problems, and offer them something to be thankful for—a smile, a kindness. For a moment, if your stresses seem overwhelming, try to quiet your mind and focus on whatever positive you can find in that moment.

Info And Questions: 405-340-1404 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 Mitzi Massie Mitzi@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Advertising Director Donna Stewart Ads@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Advertising Sales Anna Amis, Karen Cody, Vikki Kembel, Rebecca Phansalkar Office and Distribution Manager Kathy Alberty Kathy@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Marketing Specialist Whitney Fleming Calendar Editor & Special Projects Assistant Terri Fields Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Editorial Assistants Elizabeth Harvey Sherrie Horton Graphics Assistant Kathryne Taylor Kathryne@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Contributing Writers

• Next month features a full listing of holiday activities around the Metro. Ad deadline is November 11; distribution starts December 1.

• Coming soon: our BIG January education guide. Free and paid listings available; call us at 405-340-1404. Deadline is December 5.

• MetroFamily’s Parent University features Love & Logic speaker Betsy Geddes on February 5, 2009. Educator’s session will be held from 9am-2:30pm; Parent’s session will be held from 6:30-9pm. Tickets on sale now. See page 3 for details.

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/parent-university.

• Start training now for the Redbud Classic, scheduled for April 4-5. Details on joining the MFM Iron Mom Team coming in December’s issue.

Meet our Cover Kid: Blake Wellman, age 3, is one of three winners of MFM’s 2008 Cover Kids Contest, as determined by reader vote in May. Blake is the son of Jeff and Andrea Wellman of Yukon. Since this is our Health and Wellness issue, we asked Andrea about Blake’s favorites. She reports that he likes bananas and granola bars and his favorite activities are playing outside, singing, dancing, and running around.

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November 2008

Drs Lori & Stewart Beasley Brie Cadman Mari Farthing Shannon Fields Malena Lott Gayleen Rabakkuk

Sue Lynn Sasser Chelsey Simpson Keith Turner Phyllis VanHemert Francis Williams

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

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. 306 S. Bryant, Suite C152 • Edmond, OK 73034 Fax: 405-340-1490 E-mail: Info@MetroFamilyMagazine.com ©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2008, All Rights Reserved.

Volume 11, Number 11

Imagine... not just raising grades, but realizing potential.

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November 2008

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In Touch With Relationships When Parents Argue

I

t’s a fact that how parents disagree, express disappointment, and show anger will impact how children manage their own conflicts and emotions. The ability to work through problems, confront others when needed, and hold on to boundaries while respecting the relationship takes practice and committed intention.

Respectful communication will not only benefit the marriage, but can influence the way your children will handle disagreement with someone they love.

What’s going on when parents argue?

• Parents may be in the habit of defending their positions by butting heads.

assume parents are headed for divorce.

• Children don’t usually address these worries with their parents, believing that not talking about it will help their parents forget about the issues.

• Sometimes children may have • Parents may not feel respected in the tantrums, try to be the peacemaker, relationship and are too angry to work start fights, begin frequent whining, together. want to stay home from school to • Parents may be faced with difficult be sure everyone is okay, or develop circumstances (such as financial headaches and stomachaches. stress) and may need objective, • Children stay emotionally hyperprofessional consultation. vigilant and feel helpless when they • Parents may be lacking effective suspect parent instability. communication skills.

How does chronic arguing affect your children?

• Children report they worry when their parents argue. Younger children become afraid and distraught while older children become anxious and

How can parents model disagreement with respect?

• Tell your partner you would like to postpone the discussion until you can get your emotions under control.

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November 2008

Celebrating Ten Years!

• Listen to the other person’s view. • Make eye contact, keeping facial expression neutral. • State your own position calmly using I messages, such as, “I believe that‌â€? • Offer to think over the other person’s position and compromise if you can. • If you feel strongly in contradiction to what is being proposed, say, “I’d like to be able to get on your page about this matter, but it just doesn’t work for me. I think we are going to have to compromise.â€?

• Get professional help if you are stuck.

Even parents can work on increasing emotional self-management skills.

Respectful communication will not only benefit the marriage, but can influence the way your children will handle disagreement with someone they love.

Phyllis VanHemert, M.Ed., LPC, Inc., works with children and adults within the offices of Paul Tobin, Ph.D., PC and Ann Benjamin, M.Ed., Inc. Phyllis is a school consultant and founder and director of HorseSense of Oklahoma, which provides Equine Assisted Growth and Learning for families and groups

If you find yourself beginning to argue in the presence of your child, try to refer to your plan for discussing hot topics. Some ideas include: • Postpone the discussions until the children are asleep. Or, send older children to their rooms.

Read more at

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ family-relationships

• Give the discussion your full attention.

Discussing a hot issue while multitasking can invite misunderstandings. • Agree to no name calling, no interrupting each other, no threats. • Model yourself after someone you respect who has been successful with relationships.

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Fighting Obesity The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) estimates that 65% of Oklahoma adults are overweight or obese, and 31% of Oklahoma youth are overweight or at risk, which puts them at risk for health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and even depression. The new Oklahoma Physical Activity and Nutrition Program (OKPAN) is a statewide collaboration to prevent obesity and other chronic diseases through healthy eating and physical activity. The plan focuses on five key areas: physical activity, breastfeeding, reducing screen-time (TV and computer), healthy eating, and surveillance and evaluation.

All Oklahomans are encouraged to take charge of healthy choices in their lives, in order to make a positive impact in their families and communities. “Action happens when people who are passionate about something come together,” said Mary Massey, of the OSDH Chronic Disease Department. “When a group comes together, changes is more likely to occur.”

The plan addresses the social, economic, and environmental factors that feed the obesity epidemic. The overall goal of the OKPAN is to make healthy choices available in all settings, reduce obesity rates, and reduce the rates of obesity-related chronic diseases.

To find out how to make positive changes and read a full version of the plan, go to ok.gov/health.

MFM Question of the Month How much weight has Iron Mom ShaRhonda Burton lost?

(Hint: page 34!)

To enter, visit MetroFamilyMagazine.com/FS-Giveaway and complete the entry form. Deadline is Thursday, November 20.

The winning entry will receive a prize package worth over $500, including the items pictured above and much more.

Full description of prizes listed at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ FS-Giveaway. * Winner agrees to pick up items from NW OKC area.

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November October 2008 2008

National Adoption Month November is National Adoption Month, and this year the focus is on adopting teens from foster care. Adoption is a life-changing journey for all members involved—birth parents, adoptees, and adoptive parents. At its best, adoption provides children with love, nurturance, and stability, promoting the opportunity for adopted children to become healthy, productive adults.

An International Adoption Workshop will be held Saturday, November 8 at Norman’s Trinity Baptist Church (801 N Peters), 9:30am-3:30pm. Cost is $100 per couple (includes lunch and materials).

Dillon International (a licensed, nonprofit intercountry adoption agency) staff members will present information and answer questions on adoption programs in China, Korea, Haiti, and India. Please call 405-329-0531 to register for this event.

An Adoption Fair will be held Saturday, November 15 at the OKC First Church of the Nazarene (4400 NW Expy), 9amnoon. Get information on home studies, domesetic and international adoption, and foster care. Agents from state agencies will be present to answer questions. Please call 405-843-9588 or visit OKCFirstNaz.org to register for this free event.

Find out about adoption and resources, get answer to questions, and a list of events and activities for National Adoption Month at ChildWelfare.gov/adoption.

Heard a Good Book Lately?

Did you know that you can download books from your local library? Both the Pioneer Library System (JustSoYouKnow. us) and the Metropolitan Library System (MetroLibrary.org) offer downloadable audio books on their websites. Using the free software program OverDrive, books can be downloaded to your computer to play on your MP3 player or iPod. In some cases, the files may also be burned to CD. Three audiobooks may be checked out at a time and there are no late fees on returns— the books return themselves when they are due.

Visit your library’s website to learn more about audiobooks today.

Celebrating Ten Years!

Rediscover Joy

By Malena Lott

Joyful living can seem a distant paradise when you’re knee-deep in mismatched socks. It’s as if an invisible scale constantly tips to Stress instead of Joy. How do we tip the scales back towards joyful living while keeping up with the demands of a busy lifestyle and parenting?

2. Schedule joy. Until we can learn to find joy in the mundane, we can tip the scale by scheduling joyful activities. What passion have you foregone since becoming a parent? Time with friends is a proven mood-lifter, so make time with friends a “No Excuses/Must Attend” event.

3. Take back “lost time.” When we see parents who seem to have it all, we wonder, how do they do it? We all have the same 24 hours in a day—scrutinize your daily schedule to reclaim lost time spent doing things that don’t add meaning to your life, such as saying yes to activities to which you really wanted to say no. Even 15 minutes can improve your spirits for the whole day.

4. Get fit together. A lifestyle change to healthful eating and more physical activity can be maintained if the whole family does it together, and the increased levels of serotonin and endorphins can help stave off depression and increase joy. Get the kids in the act by cooking together and picking physical games, such as badminton, basketball and backyard soccer, or evening walks. Consider a new sport to tackle together, like kayaking or hiking.

5. Do something new. Boredom and feelings of restlessness can come from getting stuck in a routine. Learning and trying new things can revitalize our spirit. Check newspapers and magazines (including this one) for community events you’ve not yet tried, or consider new recipes, reading a new genre of book, or new hobbies.

Malena Lott of Edmond is an author and wife and mother of three young children. Her humorous and heartfelt second novel, Dating da Vinci, about a young widowed mother’s journey to “la vita allegra,” joyful living, is in bookstores now. For more about the author, visit MalenaLott.com.

Celebrating Ten Years!

Life with children can be hectic, and the family dinner might be a hard goal to achieve, but Thanksgiving is usually a time when the entire family is there around the table. We’ve found some products to help your family connect as you celebrate the things you appreciate in life.

The Family Talk Clip ($12.95, AroundTheTableGames.com) is a portable set of 100 question cards that engage the whole family.

For ages four and up, the questions include the simple “What is your favorite food?” to the complex “How do you define and earn respect?” :NGTQL[R /S

:

3

1. Clear your mind. Brain research indicates we think ourselves unhappy. And what we think, we believe. By practicing mental decluttering to stop negative thinking, we can appreciate the moment we are in now.

Family Dinner Conversation

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The I’m Thankful Journal ($21.95, ImThankful.com) is a hardcover book that families can complete together to create a one-of-a-kind heirloom. Pages have prompts for ideas (“What are you most thankful for?”) and space to add your own writing and pictures. Use it to create a living log of how your family changes through the years. This book is sure to become a family treasure.

The Lion Day-By-Day Bible ($19.95, LionHudson.com) is a beautifully-illustrated Bible for families to share and read together. Each day provides a different passage, taking readers from Genesis 1:1 through Revelation, and a prayer that focuses on the message of the passage.

Get Involved in the Crystal Darkness Campaign Undoubtedly, you’ve heard of methamphetamine. Also known as crank, crystal, ice, chalk, quartz, and meth, it’s a drug that creates an intense rush for the user and usually leaves the user depressed and in a vicious cycle to get high repeatedly while trying to capture that initial feeling; ironically, the drug destroys the brain’s pleasure receptors, the very part of the brain that is triggered when first using the drug. It doesn’t take much time for meth to take control. Don’t think it applies to you or your family? A few shocking statistics about meth: • 29% of teens and 41% of young adults believe meth gives you energy.

• 29% of teens and 34% of young adults believe meth helps you deal with boredom.

• 30% of teens and 40% of young adults believe meth makes you feel euphoric and happy.

• 39% of teens and 41% of young adults believe meth helps you lose weight.

The Crystal Darkness campaign seeks to bring all of Oklahoma into the fight against meth. Co-chaired by Oklahoma First Lady Kim Henry, the campaign will begin with the airing of a 30-minute documentary film on Tuesday, January 13. The film includes testimonials that give a graphic representation of the destructive effects of meth.

“Whether you have a heart to serve your community or your life has been touched in some way by crystal meth, the Crystal Darkness Campaign is a unique collaboration of community, faith based congregations, and government that is worthy of your interest, time, and energy,” said Robin Jones, Director of the Office of Faith Based & Community Initiatives.

Visit CrystalDarknessOklahoma.org to learn more about the campaign, how you can get involved or for details on donating your money or time.

November 2008

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Make a Difference by Giving The HUGS Project sends care packages to American service members who spend the holidays away from home. The project accepts donations of goods and money to cover the cost of sending the care packages to military members this holiday season. Items such as new-release DVDs and CDs, all-wool black caps, fingerless gloves, and standard care package items are welcome. The project hopes to send 2,000 Christmas care packages to deserving Americans. Donations will be accepted through November; please visit TheHugsProject.com to learn more. Visit the HUGS Project in person at Crossroads Mall (suite 1068).

The Children’s Center in Bethany (6800 NW 39th Expy) is collecting Holiday Baby Basics from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. Tax-deductible donations including personal hygiene items, linens, clothing, and baby items are accepted.

Donations of goods or money will benefit the year-round needs of the Children’s Center patients A full list of items may be found at tccokc.org. Call 405-440-6733 for more information.

Blue Star Mothers of North OKC/Edmond send holiday care packages of “necessities and nice-cities” to American service members. Tax-deductible donations will be accepted at Henderson Hills Baptist (I-35 & SE 15th, Edmond) and Peace Lutheran (2600 E Danforth, Edmond) churches until November 14 at 5pm. Boxes will be packed November 15 at Henderson Hills beginning at 9am.

For more information, contact the group by calling 405-706-5516 or email bsm_ edmond@hotmail.com.

Operation Christmas Child provides shoe box gifts to children overseas suffering from the effects of disease, war, and natural disaster. Since 1993, the program has delivered over 61 million shoeboxes to kids in 130 countries. Fill a shoebox with items such as small toys, hygiene items, and school supplies, with a $7 donation to cover shipping costs. Call 1-800-670-9068 or visit SamaritansPurse.org for details and requested items. Collection Week is November 17-24. Drop-off locations in the area include Emmaus Baptist Church (16001 S Western, OKC), Norman’s First Baptist Church (211 W Comanche), First Lutheran Church (1300 N Robinson, OKC), Greater Bethel Baptist Church (1601 NE 24th, OKC), and Bloom Electric (9525 W Reno, OKC).

Local 4-H chapters are collecting H.U.G.S. (new hats, underwear, gloves, socks) for local children in need. Items are accepted through November 17. Drop off sites include the Oklahoma County Courthouse and the OSU Extension Center (930 N Portland, OKC). Call 405-713-1125 for more information or visit oces. okstate.edu/Oklahoma/4-H.

Easy to be

Green Gas Saving Tips

By Keith Turner / Source: HybridCars.com

• Don’t speed. Driving 65 mph instead of 75 mph will increase your fuel economy by about 10%. Take pride in being a slowpoke.

• Avoid “jack rabbit” starts. Flooring the gas pedal wastes gas and leads to drastically higher pollution rates.

• Anticipate stops. Think ahead to anticipate stops so your vehicle can coast down. Accelerating hard and braking hard wastes gas, increases pollution, and wears out your brakes.

• Keep your tires properly inflated.

For every three pounds below recommended pressure, fuel economy goes down by about one percent.

• Avoid rush hour, if possible.

Stop-and-go driving burns gas and increases emissions of smog-forming pollutants. For hybrids that can stay in electric mode at low speeds, the effects of stop-and-go driving are greatly reduced.

• Travel light. An extra 100 pounds in your trunk reduces fuel economy by about one percent.

Rockettes Come to OKC

• Combine trips. Warmed-up engines run more efficiently and generate less air pollution.

This holiday season, Oklahoma City is in for a treat as the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes bring their show to the Ford Center, Friday-Sunday, December 26-28. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular arena tour features 24 Rockettes, ensemble members, children, and animals coming together to create a one-of-akind holiday event sure to bring the holiday spirit to your whole family.

• Turn off the air conditioning. AC increases fuel consumption. At high speeds, open windows increase drag; use vents if possible.

Rockette members Kenna Michelle Morris, Ami Price, Danielle Kimmins, and Joanna Richardson visited Oklahoma City in October, and while here were able to visit with families at Tinker AFB, greet military members at the airport, and promote local toy and winter coat drives. Reaching out to the local community with philanthropic projects remains an important aspect of being a Rockette, just as it was when the Rockettes were formed in 1932.

The arena tour includes the same special effects featured in their Radio City Music Hall home base—including a live orchestra, animals, and eight costume changes.

Tickets are available through the Ford Center box office or by calling 405-2358288. Prices start at $25, and group rates are available. Showtimes are Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday 1pm, 4:30pm, and 8pm; Sunday 1pm and 4pm.

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November 2008

• Check your own fuel economy every few weeks. If you notice the numbers slipping, then think about how your driving might have changed, and consider getting a tune-up or an oil change.

• Drive less. Give your car a rest by taking public transportation, riding a bike, or walking. The exercise will do you good.

Don’t forget—when you are done with this issue, pass it on to a friend or drop it in your recycle bin!

Celebrating Ten Years!

Problem-Solving Pet Blessings The Blessing of the Pets will be held at the K9 University (9217 NW Expy), Products Tuesday, November 11 from 6-8pm. The blessing marks the 15th anniversary of Problem:

Don’t squish the frosting!

Solution:

The Baker’s Sto ‘N Go (BakersStoNGo. com) is a storage container with slide-out shelves allowing baked goods to ride in protected comfort. Transport pies, brownies, cookies and more with this sturdy device. ($24.95).

Problem:

Potty training on the go.

Solution:

The Potty Flip (PottyFlipUSA. com) is an ingenious, disposable (biodegradable!) toilet for children ages 1-5. This small and lightweight cardboard device supports up to 75lbs, and can be stashed anywhere (backpack, purse, car) for use. ($24/package of 12).

Problem:

How do you wash the washing machine?

Solution:

Smellywasher (SmellyWasher.com) is a safe and environmentallyfriendly way to remove mold and fungus from your machine, which not only cause odors but can also aggravate allergies and asthma. Treat your washer with just a tablespoon monthly for a noticeable difference. ($16).

the founding of 501c3 Paws for Friendship, Inc. The event will include blessings, certificates of blessing, and on-site professional pet photography. Participants who have pets unable to attend are encouraged to bring a photo or memento for ministers to bless. Pet owners must provide proof of current vaccinations at registration. Dogs must be on lead; cats in carriers.

Paws for Friendship is an international nonprofit animal-assisted therapy organization. Teams of members visit locations such as hospitals and libraries and recently began a new partnership with the OK County Gang Division.

For more details on Paws for Friendship, Inc. visit PawsForFriendshipInc.org.

View K9 University at MyK9U.com.

Safe and Healthy Schools A study by the Oklahoma State Department of Health recently reported that in Oklahoma, as many as one in three children in elementary and middle school have been involved in a bullying incident.

Bullied students show higher levels of worry, health problems, and later antisocial behavior. “Bullying at school can lower a student’s academic performance and negatively impact health,” said Secretary of Health and Commissioner of Health Dr. Michael Crutcher, via press release.

The 10th Annual Safe and Healthy Schools Conference will address the topic of bullying intervention, along with drug abuse prevention, fitness activities, and crisis management.

The conference is free, and will be held Monday, November 10, 8am-4:15pm at OKC’s Clarion Meridian Hotel and Convention Center. Call 405-521-2107 or visit sde.state.ok.us to learn more.

Raising Healthy Children Parents, are you wondering how to get your kids to value their health and fitness? Good news—studies show that children learn many habits, including healthy eating and exercise, from their parents.

LaDonna Dunlop, a Registered Dietitican and the Family and Comuser Sciences educator for the Oklahoma County OSU Cooperative Extension Service, offers these tips to get your children eating healthfully: • Stock up on nutritional snacks and limit junk food in the house.

• Limit portion sizes; discourage overeating by offering your children a small helping of dinner and allow seconds rather than starting with a large portion and demanding they clear their plate.

Problem:

• Make time for family mealtimes, an opportunity to model good behavior and establish family identity.

Solution:

Hit the library or the bookstore to find more help. In Dr. Rob’s Guide to Raising Fit Kids (DiaMedica Publishing; $16.95), Dr. Robert Gotlin offers parents a well-rounded resource. The book offers advice on how to get your kids moving and eating well; how to help them avoid common sports injuries; and even how to avoid falling into the trap of drugs and alcohol.

The kids want to help make dinner!

Get your kids cooking with you with the Playful Chef set (PlayfulInc.com), which includes recipes, kid-size cooking tools, and a toolbelt-style apron packed in a vinyl backpack. ($39.99).

Celebrating Ten Years!

With pages of common questions and answers, recipes, and a description of the food pyramid with breakdowns by age and options for vegetarians, this book might become a dog-eared, book-marked favorite for your healthy family.

November 2008

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Q & A with the Beasleys Negative Self-Talk and Your Kids Dear Drs. Lori and Stewart: I need help with my five year old daughter. She has uncontrollable crying fits and says “I hate myself,� “I’m stupid,� and “I’m annoying.� At school she is well liked by her teachers and peers but struggles with feeling accepted. My husband and I praise her and try to build confidence in her but what we are doing obviously is not working. I need your advice. Please help.

Debbie

Dr. Stewart: First, let’s look at the bright side of your dilemma, Debbie. Your daughter is talking with you about her feelings! She trusts you and perceives you as a resource for solutions to her unhappiness. You can see the clearer picture that she is liked and admired by others. But her negative self-talk means she views herself through her own “warped� mirror.

opposite of stupid: “Remember when I couldn’t find my keys and you found them for me?�

Dr. Stewart: Your daughter may feel “socially stupid� which means she isn’t sure how to relate to other children her age or how to interpret what they say to her. Childhood is a time of developing social skills and figuring out what a friend is and what to say to him. RoleDr. Lori: When a child makes derogatory playing a variety of social interactions statements about herself, she is in effect can help to give her confidence. asking “Am I stupid?� or “Do you think Dr. Lori: Inviting classmates or I’m annoying?� As parents, we may go neighbors over to play is a casual way to overboard trying to convince our child help a child with social skills. Sharing that she is not only OK but Super-OK! ideas of things they can play alleviates Most children don’t buy this overkill some nervousness. You may also have a and reject it. Instead, soft and consistent snack or a craft ready, just in case. You encouraging statements pointing out can observe her social skills and then your child’s assets work best: “I can’t build on skills that might need help. think of anyone I’d rather spend time with than you. You make me smile.�

Dr. Stewart: Family routines, Remind her of a time when she was the responsibilities and activities are

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November 2008

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the most natural way to build self confidence and acceptance. Assigning her jobs at home such as wrapping a package, folding laundry, taking care of a pet, or answering the telephone can help her become aware of how her skills are improving and how her family appreciates and relies on her.

Dr. Lori: When she has one of the crying fits you describe, gently hold her, allow her to cry and express her feelings—and don’t try to contradict what she is saying. At that moment, she needs to communicate how she feels. It’s helpful if you can articulate that you know she is sad/mad/frustrated, etc. and that it is acceptable for her to cry and express her feelings that way. Sometimes, five year olds can be encouraged to draw a picture of their feelings or read a book about feelings such as Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst.

Dr. Stewart: One last thought, Debbie—consider creating a Wall of Fame for pictures and items showing your daughter’s successes. It could include pictures of her playing soccer, swimming, displays of school awards and certificates, or pictures of her helping others. The Wall of Fame is a reminder of her strengths and successes.

Dr. Lori: We have seen these behaviors before in other children and they and their parents always survive! We believe you will, too. Good luck and thanks for writing.

Lori Beasley, EdD is Asst. Vice President of Academic Affairs and Professor of Family Life Education at the University of Central Oklahoma. Stewart R. Beasley, PhD is a licensed psychologist who practices in Edmond and Oklahoma City and is Clinical Professor of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine.

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Family Finances Financial Uncertainty

P

erhaps like many others, you have been glued to the headlines about the ongoing instability in our financial markets.

Like you, I’ve been in contact with my personal financial advisor to see what she recommends—hoping that between the two of us, we have sufficient knowledge and foresight to minimize the losses. But, unlike the local fortune teller, neither of us reads “tea leaves� or can find magical answers in our

crystal ball.

Few things are more unsettling than uncertainty about the future. If leading economic indicators consistently predict a recession, we can plan how to protect ourselves during the downturn. If the indicators consistently predict inflation, we can take the necessary steps to hedge against rising prices and eroding purchasing power.

Uncertain times like today, however, are more challenging because the

Financial Literacy We may not have been taught financial literacy in school, but our kids soon will be. The PASSport to Personal Financial Act of 2007 was designed to “provide students with the basic skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage their personal finances.�

The program, written for students in grades 7-12, includes 14 topics, including taxes, banking topics, insurance, and bankruptcy. The information will be taught in Oklahoma schools beginning this year for some schools.

You can view all of the student materials online at sde.state.ok.us/ Curriculum/PFLP/default.html.

More materials will be added later this year—financing a college education, saving money for college, starting a business, and buying a car.

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The financial industry in the United States is very interconnected. What impacts the banking community has direct impact on the investment community, which impacts mortgage firms, insurance companies and other financial organizations. While the interdependence of our economy is one of its greatest strengths, it can also be one of the greatest challenges.

Talk of â&#x20AC;&#x153;bailing out Wall Streetâ&#x20AC;? sounds totally ominous to most families, especially when it comes with a price tag approaching a trillion dollars!

Unfortunately, the problems faced in the stock market and other sectors of the financial industry impact small investors like you and me who hold stocks in our 401Ks or IRAs. It also impacts families and businesses here in Oklahoma by decreasing the funds available for loans or credit. Declining portfolios translate into declining wealth, which limits economic growth and prosperity for everyone.

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Our economy is based solely on faith.

When we have confidence in our system and confidence in our government, we react positively. We invest for the future, buy new homes and continue spending. Business grows and people prosper. When confidence lags, we tend to become much more protective of our financial resources, leading to reduced spending and more cautious investing.

Business declines and wealth decreases.

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s losses are especially devastating for people in or near retirement, or for businesses with plans of expanding.

Older investors may not have sufficient time to recover. As a result, they may need to stay working longer than expected or have reduced income in their golden years. Those of us with several more years to work can recoup much of the lost wealth because the market will eventually come back.

When, however, is anyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guess.

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current economic conditions are rather unprecedented. Continued uncertainty tends to breed fear, and continued fear tends to breed panic.

November 2008

Celebrating Ten Years!

expenses or expansion face higher interest rates and tougher requirements to get loans. Those two factors are especially difficult for small business owners to overcome.

So, what is a person to do?

First and foremost, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t panic. The U.S. economy historically has been amazingly resilient, through devastating hurricanes, bank closures, oil busts, depressions and recessions, periods of inflation and stagflation, Republican and Democratic administrations, and changes in Congressional leadership.

Secondly, do take whatever steps are necessary to protect your financial resources. Talk to your financial advisor, keep up with the news and stay alert on what is happening. Be sure that you are comfortable with the information you receive from your advisor and follow your â&#x20AC;&#x153;gutâ&#x20AC;? instinct. During uncertain economic times, sometimes â&#x20AC;&#x153;stay the courseâ&#x20AC;? is still the best adviceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but only you can make that determination.

Lastly, increase your savings and pay down your debt. That may mean a reduction in spending, but it will be your best defense against uncertain economic times.

Interestingly, through all of the economic turmoil of the 20th Century, stocks maintain the best rate of return on your money. They are one of the few investments that have continually outperformed the average rate of inflation and increased peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wealth.

Investment is meant to be long-term and ride out whatever happens.

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s problems are symptoms of a larger, extremely complicated set of circumstances that cannot be resolved with one piece of legislation, a large amount of government infusion into the system or any other â&#x20AC;&#x153;simpleâ&#x20AC;? solution.

Hang on and fasten your seat belts. It may be a bumpy ride!

Sue Lynn Sasser, PhD, is an associate professor of economics at the University of Central Oklahoma.

Celebrating Ten Years!

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19

1. You have to exercise more than you think.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week; this includes things like shoveling snow and gardening. And while this is great for improving heart health and staying active, research indicates that those looking to lose weight or maintain weight loss have to do more—about twice as much.

Cold, Hard Weight Loss Truths Even if you’re not trying to lose weight, chances are you’ve seen some ideas on how to do so: “Eat what you want and lose weight!”

“Lose 30 pounds in 30days!”

“Finally, a diet that really works!”

“Lose one jean size every seven days!”

“Top three fat burners revealed!”

“Ten minutes to a tighter tummy!”

But these claims are readily rebuked by anyone who’s tried to lose five, ten, or one hundred pounds. Losing weight ain’t that easy. It’s not in a pill, it doesn’t (usually) happen in 30 days, and judging from the myriad plans out there, there is no one diet that works for everyone.

Looking past the outrageous claims, there are a few hard truths the diet industry isn’t going to tell you—truths that just might help you take a more realistic approach to sustained weight loss.

20

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

November 2008

For instance, members of the National Weight Control Registry (NWCR)—a group of over 5,000 individuals who have lost an average of 66 pounds and kept it off for five and a half years—exercise for about an hour, every day.

A study published in the July 28, 2008 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine supports this observational finding.

The researchers enrolled 200 overweight and obese women on a diet and exercise regimen and followed them for two years. Compared with those who gained some of their weight back, the women who were able to sustain a weight loss of 10 percent of their initial weight for two years exercised consistently and regularly—about 275 minutes a week, or 55 minutes of exercise at least five days a week.

In other words, taking the stairs, walking to the store, and gardening are great ways to boost activity level, but losing serious weight means exercising regularly for an hour or so. However, this doesn’t mean you have to start running or kickboxing—the most frequently reported form of activity in the NWCR group is walking.

2. A half-hour walk doesn’t equal a brownie.

I remember going out to eat with some friends after a bike ride. Someone commented on how we deserved dessert because we had just spent the day exercising; in fact, we had taken a leisurely 20-minute ride through the park. This probably burned the calories in a slice of our French bread, but definitely not those in the caramel fudge brownie dessert. Bummer.

And while it’s easy to underestimate how many calories something has, it’s also easy to overestimate how many calories we burn while exercising. Double bummer.

Even if you exercise a fair amount, this does not give permission to eat whatever you want. A report investigating the commonly-held beliefs about exercising, published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, concludes that although exercise does burn Celebrating Ten Years!

calories during and after exercise, for overweight persons, “excessive caloric expenditure has limited implications for substantially reducing body weight independent of nutritional modifications.” In other words, to lose weight, you have to cut calories and increase exercise.

3. You have time to exercise.

If you have time to check email, watch a sitcom, surf the Internet, meet with friends, go shopping… well, then you have time to exercise. Yes, sometimes you have to sacrifice leisure time to fit it in. Yes, sometimes you have to prioritize your exercise time over other things. But your health and the feeling you get after having worked out is well worth it.

4. Eating more of something won’t help you lose weight.

The food industry is keen to latch onto weight loss research and spin it for their sales purposes. A prime example is the widespread claim that eating more dairy products will help you lose weight. However, a recent review of 49 clinical trials from 1966 to 2007 showed that “neither dairy nor calcium supplements helped people lose weight.”

This idea—that eating more of a certain type of product will help you lose weight—is constantly regurgitated on supermarket shelves (think low-fat cake, low-carb crackers, high in whole grain cookies, and trans fat-free chips), but is in direct opposition to the basic idea behind weight loss—that we have to eat less, not more.

5. Calories in = calories out?

There is a fair amount of controversy over the basic question of how people gain weight. Is it simply a matter of energy intake being greater than energy expenditure? Or is there more to it; do the type of calories we eat matter and can avoiding certain types help to lose or prevent weight?

The low-fat, low-carb, and glycemic index advocates can’t seem to agree on which it is.

However, most can agree, and logical sense would tell us, that drinking 500 calories of soda is not equal to eating 500 calories of chicken and broccoli. One is simply “empty” calories—those that provide no real nutritional benefit and don’t do much to combat hunger. Whether you ascribe to the simple idea of trying to burn more calories than you take in or focus on avoiding certain types of calories, you want to minimize intake of empty calories, and maximize nutrient-dense calories.

6. Your body is working against you.

Most people have noticed that it’s hard to lose weight but easy to gain it. This is a relic of harder times, when food was not as abundant as it is today. Our genetic taste buds made energy-dense food desirable because it was necessary to pack away calories so we could make it through the thin times. We feasted when we could, in preparation for the famine.

But now that we live in a time of abundance, that system predisposes many of us for weight gain and retention. And for obese dieters, this system is even harder to overcome; Celebrating Ten Years!

after weight loss, they become better at using fuel and storing fat, making it harder to keep weight off. However, this isn’t to say that many haven’t lost weight and kept it off successfully. It just means you have to be diligent.

7. Our cultural environment is also working against you.

Let’s face it, American society does not make it easy on those trying to eat healthfully and exercise. According to Linda Bacon, Associate Professor of Nutrition at UC Davis, “We get a tremendous amount of pressure to eat for reasons other than nurturing ourselves, and over time, people lose sensitivity to hunger/fullness/appetite signals meant to keep them healthy and well nourished. It’s hard for people to come to a healthy sense of themselves given the cultural climate, and nutritious and pleasurable options for healthy food are not as easily accessible as less nutritious.”

That doesn’t mean this can’t be overcome, but it does require maybe putting other parts of your life on a “diet.” TV would be the biggest culprit, since many food advertisements, especially for children’s junk food, come during this time. Other areas to put on a diet are chain and fast food restaurants (where portion sizes are distorted), a bad-influence friend, or driving (walk or bike instead).

8. Maybe you don’t need to lose weight.

Some feel that the medical problems associated with excess weight are exaggerated. Gina Kolata, a New York Times science writer questions the notion that thin is a realistic or necessary objective for most. In her book, Rethinking Thin, she asserts that weight loss is an unachievable goal for many, and that losing weight isn’t so much about health as it is about money, trends, and impossible ideals. Recent research also challenges the idea that being overweight is bad. A study in JAMA found that being twenty-five pounds overweight did not increase the risk of heart disease and cancer, and may even help stave off infections.

It’s true that people can be fit and healthy and not necessarily be thin, just as it’s true that thin people may not necessarily be healthy. Good health, rather than weight, should be our focus; too often, it’s not. Striving for an unhealthy level of thinness may be detrimental to our health, but understanding the health repercussions of obesity is also critical.

9. This is not a diet; this is your life.

The diet industry would have us all think that we can lose weight fast, and that’s that. But most people who maintain their weight understand that eating and exercising are not temporary conditions, to be dumped once a pair of jeans fit. Instead, they are lifestyle choices, and ones to be made for the long haul.

Brie Cadman has a Master’s in Public Health from UC Berkeley and writes about nutrition, fitness, and disease prevention at DivineCaroline.com. When she’s not at her computer, she can be found running, swimming, and biking in Oakland, CA.

November 2008

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21

Imagine Art van Goghâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Irises

V

incent van Gogh loved nature with its bright colors and interesting shapes. He painted hundreds of paintings of flowers and landscapes expressing his elation with the use of vivid colors and strong, bold brushstrokes. His intense color schemes are evidence of his emotions as he was confronted by nature.

Though van Gogh only sold one painting during his lifetime, he is now one of the best loved painters in the world. He struggled with loneliness for most of his life. He had a close relationship with his younger brother Theo, and they wrote many letters discussing his belief in God and love of painting which brought him happiness.

Because of these letters we know much about his inward thoughts.

Experience the joy of nature by creating a painted background and using 3-D effects to recreate your version of van Goghâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Irises, 1889.

Materials Heavyweight paper Paint Brushes Construction paper Tissue paper Scissors Glue

Process Study van Goghâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s painting, Irises, and notice the thick strong colorful brush strokes used for the soil in the foreground and background areas. Paint the whole surface of the paper using thick brush strokes. Make them larger in the Josh Kidder and Marisa Brown are both in the sixth grade foreground area and at Piedmont Middle School continue to the middle ground letting the tissue to glue in the middle of the strokes become smaller, then on to blooms for the stamen. the background smaller still. Change Take time to evaluate your piece as the color of paint as you go from soil you work, noting places that need more colors to grass and then sky colors. overlapping of leaves or flowers to Experiment with placing different create a greater sense of depth. Upon adjacent colors, colors which are side completion glue the finished piece by side on the color wheel, next to to a piece of cardboard cut to fit the each other as you paint; such as a paper. This will allow your painting stroke of yellow green then a stroke of to be displayed on an easel or wall for green and then blue green. Repeat this all to experience the joy of nature that combination in various ways as you Vincent van Gogh recorded so well in paint adding a dash of blue and yellow his paintings. to contrast with the greens.

As the paint is drying, cut Iris leaf shapes from the construction paper and some from tissue paper. Then cut iris petal shapes from various colors of tissue paper. Cut more than you think you will need so that an overlapping effect can be achieved. Glue the leaves on first, then add the Iris petals forming blooms. Wad small pieces of yellow

Frances A. Williams lives and teaches 6th-8th grade art in Piedmont.

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Let’s Eat: Review Lee’s Sandwiches

T

ake a deep breath before entering the doors of Lee’s Sandwiches; ready, set, bring your appetite and enter.

When you gaze up at the mammoth menu board, don’t panic. Step aside and study the options. My husband had been to Lee’s on a previous occasion and tried to prepare me—but my mouth still dropped open and panic started to rise. How would I make a decision?!

The customer that has been here before can confidently step forward and place their orders; the new customer needs to relish the offerings listed before making their decision.

Lee’s Sandwiches, started by a Vietnamese family from San Jose, offers Vietnamese, French, and American culinary fusion on a baguette. The bread is baked fresh, daily, on-site. Up to 3,000 baguettes can be produced in an hour—catch a glimpse of the bread factory through the glass when you visit.

It was a daunting task making our choices. Along with the sandwiches, there were colorful side dishes to view at the counter, some looked familiar and some, a little out of the ordinary.

My sandwich was listed under European sandwiches and Joe’s was listed under Asian. He chose the #5, grilled pork sandwich ($2.20) on a 10” baguette. This sandwich is served with house pickles (daikon and carrot), onion, thinly sliced fresh jalapeno, cilantro, house mayo, and soy sauce. Daikon is a mild flavored East Asian giant white radish. The house mayo has soy sauce blended in with it. Though the sandwich did not contain as much pork as he would have preferred, Joe declared the flavor very good and since it was on a 10” baguette, a hearty lunch when accompanied with a bag of chips and a drink. The sandwich had a bite to it, with the thin slices of jalapeno, so I happily relieved Joe of those, not realizing daikon was a radish which also has some heat.

I chose the #27, turkey club with bacon ($4.20) on a 10” baguette. This is also available on a large croissant, which looks yummy and flaky. The turkey club is served with mayo, tomato, crisp iceberg lettuce, and your choice of American, Swiss, or provolone cheese. I was so overwhelmed I did not think to request my choice of cheese so it came with American cheese. It is served with onion, pickle, and pepperoncini on the side. The turkey was a little more generous on my sandwich than the pork was on Joe’s. The flavor and bread were very good.

Opening at 7am, Lee’s also offers a variety of pastries, coffees, and smoothies. The Vietnamese French press coffee is served hot or cold, with or without condensed milk. They also offer several pastries to start your morning. We picked up a cherry Danish and an almond croissant to enjoy the next day along with a chicken pate chaux. To finish off our meal we enjoyed two French horns, a tube of flaky puff pastry with a pastry cream filling dusted with powdered sugar. This was a crispy sweet bite making us wish we had a couple extra to enjoy at home. The cream was a nice change from the usual whipped cream filling.

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November 2008

Celebrating Ten Years!

Lee’s also offers several types of appetizers, including egg rolls, spring rolls, skin rolls, sesame balls, and a type of bread that resembles Indian fry bread.

You may want to save room for ice cream. We saw several patrons enjoying their cones. We also noticed by the empty containers that the kiwi and mango were two favorites, along with a hazelnut that looked nice and crunchy.

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25

Register for your chance to WIN a family four pack of tickets to see the

“Grandest Holiday Show of All Time!”

Radio City Christmas Spectacular Starring the world famous ROCKETTES live at the Ford Center,

Dec. 26-28

Tickets good for December 26 at 7:30 PM For more information on the Rockettes Christmas performance visit OKFordCenter.com

To enter, please go to MetroFamilyMagazine.com/contests or mail your name, complete address, and day phone to:

MetroFamily Magazine Christmas Contest • 306 S Bryant, Suite C152 • Edmond, OK 73034

Ardmore Oklahoma Festival of Lights

Extends over one mile through Ardmore Regional Park

Exit 33 off I-35 (North of Hwy 142) November 22-December 30 Sunday-Thursday 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Friday-Saturday 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Call (580) 223-7765 www.ardmore.org 26

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

November 2008

Celebrating Ten Years!

When Go Means Green A Survey of Today’s Family Cars Reveals More Choices than Ever for Earth-Friendly Rides

Gas prices may be rebounding from the sky-high levels of the summer, but families (and economists) are apprehensive that prices may be heading north again.

Yes, the all-American love affair with gas-guzzling sport utility vehicles and recreational ramblers may have gone the way of the cloth diaper and the VCR. We can no longer afford to wander the vast countryside without worry of where the next gallon of gas will be found, and how much it will cost to fill our monster machines. The days of endless road trips to faraway destinations appear to be a thing of the past.

But they don’t have to be. While the single-digit

mileage machines are heading into storage — destined for the auto museums of the future (“Look, Dad, it’s a V8!”) — there are many new models of leaner, greener vehicles that provide renewed hope for the family vacation.

In fact, many mid- and large-sized sport utility vehicles (SUVs) are now available in hybrid versions, yet because of their weight and size characteristics, they still fall far short of the true gas misers. While they don’t chart fuel mileage high enough to be in the top 10, they certainly offer families more space and variety with significant gas savings over non-hybrids.

With assistance from Kristin Varela, Chief Mother and Senior Editor at MotherProof.com, and some automotive-expert input from the editors at Car and Driver magazine, Kelley Blue Book and HybridCars.com expert Michael Coates, we’ve put together a list of some of the most fuel-efficient, family-friendly vehicles on the market today.

By Keith Turner

Celebrating Ten Years!

November 2008

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

27

Mercury Mariner Hybrid / Ford Escape / Mazda Tribute hybrids (32 mpg / $25,31026,300)

Mothers are also equally impressed with the space of the midsize SUV.

This year’s 3-for-1 award goes to the Ford Motor Company, which is pumping up its hybrid lineup by building three nameplates out of one award-winning model: the Ford Escape.

“The cargo area is plentiful and is not reduced in any way by the presence of the battery,” says Varela. “I could easily lift up the cargo area carpet and see the battery there, but I could place all of my gear on top of it with no worries. My kids were able to put their bikes in the back for a quick trip down to the bike trail—success.”

Launched in 2004 as the nation’s first hybrid sport utility vehicle, the Ford Escape was named the North American Truck of the Year in 2005. With an average fuel mileage (32) that many small sedans would envy, the Escape— as well as the Mariner and Tribute hybrids—quietly keeps the emissions low and mileage high without much external fanfare.

Toyota Prius (Combined Ave. 46 mpg / Base price: $22,175 msrp) By most accounts, the Prius is the original hybrid (although the Honda Insight actually came first), and it certainly is the most successful. The second-generation Prius has the most original appearance of any hybrid and stands out in the parking lot, often prompting some queries from parents who are interested in its fuelsaving capabilities.

The hybrid trio also has the fuel-saving advantage

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of running in electric-only mode up to a speed of 25 miles per hour. This means in the 100 yards or so that you may roll down your street and into the driveway, the hybrid system is gobbling kilowatts—electricity from a battery that is recharged by the vehicle’s brakes—instead of gas.

November 2008

Celebrating Ten Years!

MotherProof.com reports that the Prius’ bigger-thanexpected rear passenger area is a pleasant surprise and the cargo space is large enough to fit a pair of child-sized bikes.

Honda Civic Hybrid (42 mpg / $22,600 msrp) For those who’d rather blend in than stand out, the Civic Hybrid is designed to look the same as the gas version. In fact, with a real-world mileage of 42 miles per gallon, the Civic hybrid manages only about 7-10 mpg more than the conventional Civic with a base price of $7,000 more for the hybrid version.

The interior of the Civic Hybrid garnered a bit of a concern from the MotherProof experts: “I could use a plumbing snake to get to the top-tether anchors (for child seats), and the lightcolored cloth armrests in the doors will be covered with gross banana gunk in short order.”

Nissan Altima Hybrid (34 mpg / $25,480) Available in just eight states (California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont), the Altima Hybrid uses the same hybrid technology as the Toyota hybrids, although with a different engine. Like the Toyota, the Altima Hybrid can switch from purely electric to straight gas or a combination of both.

model only, which offers plenty of power, but lower fuel mileage than might be expected from a Toyota hybrid.

For busy families, the batteries for the Camry hybrid take away critical cargo space, according to the mothers in the know.

“The trunk doesn’t have much room, it can handle about one errand at a time due to the space the batteries take up,” says Varela. “I can fold the rear seats down, but only get a small hole to perhaps pass things through, or use for skis or something. The trunk does fine for a regular grocery store trip, but an outing to my local membership warehouse would require some rope and space on the roof.”

CarandDriver.com reports: “If you want to be green but don’t want to announce it to other road users, then the Camry hybrid makes sense. It uses the same system of a gas engine and an electric motor as the Prius. Gas mileage is improved over that of a 4-cylinder Camry, but it costs.”

Mini Cooper Clubman (32 mpg / $19,900) This is not your standard family hauler, that’s for sure. But a look at the Mini Cooper Clubman reminds us somewhat of the old Ford Club Wagon that our parents (or grandparents) used

The automotive experts at CarandDriver.com point out that the Altima’s hybrid system is nearly identical to that of Toyota Camry. “The Altima hybrid . . . delivers on its sporty looks and design-forward interior with a fun, enthusiastic chassis and precise steering. If the name ‘Camry’ makes your inner rebel cringe, you’d do well to consider the Altima hybrid.”

Toyota Camry Hybrid (33 mpg / $25,200) The Camry has been one of the best-selling mid-size sedans for cost conscious families over the years, so you’d expect the hybrid version to be even more popular, right? Not so fast. The Camry hybrid comes in a 6-cylinder Celebrating Ten Years!

November 2008

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

29

to drive. A spinoff on the popular Mini Cooper, which is owned by BMW, the Clubman adds critical family-friendly leg room and cargo space in a hip design that is sure to get second glances from the neighbors.

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Another Clubman quirk is the flip-out doorsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;also known as suicide doorsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;on the side and tail of the vehicle. These unorthodox doors may look strange, but they open up the passenger area for much easier entry and exit than conventional car doors.

Mercedes E320 BlueTec (clean diesel / 31 mpg / $52,300) People tend to shudder when they hear the words â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mercedesâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;dieselâ&#x20AC;? spoken in the same sentence.

The image of a noisy old, smokebelching tank with a three-pointed star on the hood is a hard one to shake. But rest assured that the diesel engine has come a long way from that smelly sedan of yesteryear.

The E320 BlueTec system is leaner (27-36 mpg), meaner (V6 turbo) and cleaner than ever before. Thanks to an extensive system of filters and converters that somewhat resemble your kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s LEGO set, the BlueTec system cleans tailpipe emissions dramatically. And the price is right, especially when compared to the standard gasoline-powered E350. For just $1,000 more, you get a high-mileage luxury sedan that is clean and quiet.

Unfortunately, the Mercedes E320 BlueTec is only available in 42 states â&#x20AC;&#x201D; not in California or most of the Northeastâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;because it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t meet certain strict emissions standard in those states. However in 2009, the automaker will start selling three additional clean diesel SUVs that will meet air quality criteria in all 50 states.

The auto experts at CarandDriver.com are sold on this new diesel: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mercedes beat Volkswagen back to the nationwide diesel market with the full Mercedes experience â&#x20AC;&#x201D;rattle-free, pampered quietude and effortless speedâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;while consuming considerably less fuel than the comparable gasoline-powered model.

The current car gets six more miles per gallon in the city and eight more on the highway than the E350, yet it still makes the run to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds.â&#x20AC;?

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If you are needing child care or you provide child care we can help you!

For further information about any Rainbow Fleet program please call (405) 521-1426

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Kia Rio (29 mpg /$11,515) This Korean automaker is quietly and quickly opening eyes and turning the heads of cost-conscious young families who like a little spice in their sedan. The Kia Rio sedan and Rio5 five-door made an awardwinning splash soon after being redesigned in 2006. They were deemed “Most Fun to Drive” by the Wall Street Journal and “Most Wanted” by Edmunds.com. The automaker as well has been honored with “Highest Ranking” awards by J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study in ’06 and ’07.

Ford Focus (29 mpg / $15,425) If your sights are set on all-around savings — from the sales lot to the gas station — then your focus might well be zeroed in on this Ford model. With a starting sticker price under $15,000, the Ford Focus also gets great gas mileage with an average of up to 35 mpg in steady freeway driving.

For hands-free cell phone use — now the law in many states — the Focus offers Ford’s new Sync system that was developed with Microsoft and offers voice-activated phone and media connectivity for everyone in the car.

“The Matrix seats up to five adults comfortably. The rear seat, especially, has been expanded to make more passenger room.

The compromise has been a slight loss of cargo space, but not enough to notice. Overall, its functionality is still top-notch for those who like to throw in their stuff and hit the road.”

Best of the Rest: Many more of our favorite family-size vehicles are coming out in hybrid versions, offering the greatest space with better fuel economy than ever before.

Some examples include the Lexus RX400h ($42,000) and Toyota Highlander ($33,700) hybrids, which average 26 mpg while offering a smooth, silent ride with family-friendly utility. Green Car Journal’s 2008 Green Cars of the Year, the Chevrolet Tahoe (21 mpg / $50,500) hybrid and the GMC Yukon (21 mpg / $50,500) hybrid, became the first large SUV hybrids to hit the market. In 2009, Chrysler is joining the hybrid herd with a two-mode hybrid version of the Aspen (20 mpg / $45,570) and Dodge Durango (20 mpg / $45,340) SUVs. And the all-new Ford Flex (24 mpg / $28,000 to $40,000, estimated) features some unique seating and cargo configurations for active, do-it-all families.

So, don’t pack away your vacation plans just yet. There’s hope on the horizon for families who wish to get out and go without being frustrated and fuelish.

It’s all about being green.

Keith Turner is an automotive writer and the father of two teens. He can be reached at carguy@hotmail.com. His reviews can be found at www.thefamilycar.com and www.greenfamilycar.com.

Varlela was less than thrilled at the lack of head restraints in the back seats of the Focus.

Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Arts Management presents

“Children in backless boosters and teenagers (not to mention adults) would probably experience some serious head whipping if the car were hit from behind,” she reports. “I was really in a quandary with my very tall but very light 8-yearold — her head was a good foot above the back of the seat when she sat in the booster, but the seat belt cut across her neck without it.”

Home for the Holidays

Toyota Matrix

A Gift of American Dance

The American Spirit Dance Company directed by Jo Rowan

December 11 - 14, 2008

(29 mpg / $15,510)

Entertainment for the whole family!

The second-lowest priced vehicle on our family-friendly green list is also the first wagon — sport wagon, that is. The Matrix and the Pontiac Vibe are basically the same vehicles with different names and exterior appearance, and both deliver good fuel economy for a low starting price.

Ticket Information and Reservations

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However, the Matrix is being redesigned for 2009, with more room for family at a slightly greater starting price ($18,620) and same expected fuel mileage. Here’s what Michael Coates at HybridCars.com has to say about the new Matrix model: Celebrating Ten Years!

Thursday Dec. 11 Friday Dec. 12 Saturday Dec. 13 Sunday Dec. 14 November 2008

8 pm 8 pm 2 pm & 8 pm 8 pm

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

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character gratefulness

Exploring gratefulness with our children is a natural for November. Many families count their blessings on Thanksgiving, but have you considered extending that practice beyond the holiday? It can have a huge impact on your relationships with other people and may even have positive benefits for your health.

In The Psychology of Gratitude, scientists Rollin McCraty and Doc Childre write that “cultivating positive emotions, such as appreciation and gratitude, can improve the heart’s rhythmic functioning. A well-functioning heart in turn sends signals to the cognitive and emotional centers in the brain.”

In nature Catch them doing the

rightthing!

Whether the student is a Kindergartner or teen, whether the act is simple or time consuming, we want to hear about your outstanding student.

Nominate them for MetroFamily Magazine’s Spotlight on Character Award.

Visit MetroFamilyMagazine.com for contest details and nomination forms.

Gayleen Rabakukk is a freelance writer who spends her time in Edmond keeping up with her teenage and preschool daughters.

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Porcupines in North America have long, curved claws that make them very good climbers. As a result, they spend much of their time in trees. They may also sleep in rock crevices, hollow logs, or brush piles. Porcupines move slowly and have poor eyesight, but they have a very unique defense system to protect themselves from predators: 30,000 needle-like barbed quills.

When a porcupine is threatened, it turns its back on the enemy and slaps its tail against the attacker. The porcupine’s quills come loose from its skin (they are just like our hair) and lodge in the other animal. Porcupines must be grateful for this prickly defense.

Teachable moments Make a gratefulness list. Sometimes we dwell on the negative in our life and it overshadows the good things. This month, take time to sit down with your children and make a list of all the things you are grateful for in your lives. If your children are old enough, encourage them each to make a list. Challenge yourselves to come up with 100 entries on this list. Share 25 of the entries at each of the Thursday night dinners in November.

Write one thank you note each week. Do you remember the last time you got an unexpected thank you note? Remember how it made you feel? When we are acknowledged by others for thoughtfulness or a job well done, it fills us with joy.

Do your part and spread a little joy to the world by sending one thank you note every week. Here are a few suggestions to get you started: thank the teacher who spends extra time helping your child, the music instructor who is patient even when you forget to practice, the neighbor who rolls your garbage can down the driveway each week and the service person who was extremely helpful.

November 2008

Celebrating Ten Years!

© Eric Isselée, Dreamstime.com

When we recognize and acknowledge the positive contributions made by those around us, it encourages them to practice that behavior more often. For example, putting things away seems to be an ongoing battle at our house. But I’ve noticed that when it does happen and is positively reinforced, (like “thanks for putting your toys away”) it happens again. By the way, this also works with spouses—my husband’s positive reinforcement has nudged me to keep my car neat and tidy.

Spotlight on character winners Madison Grace McNeece displays the character traits of enthusiasm, generosity, and availability on a regular basis. Her mother tells us her favorite word is “sure” and she is very accommodating to others.

“Whenever we ask her to share: ‘Sure!’ Whenever we ask her to consider another option: ‘Sure!’

Whenever she’s asked to change groups: ‘Sure!’” said Karen McNeece.

Madison Grace thinks of others and what they might enjoy and is excited to be able to share with others.

Madison Grace is in the first grade at SNU’s School for Children in Bethany and is the daughter of Greg and Karen McNeece of Oklahoma City.

Colton Story displays humility and compassion while inspiring others to follow their dreams. Colton has been competing in rodeo events since the age of five. Over the years, he’s won 40 buckles and five All-Around Cowboy Championships. He competes in steer riding, calf roping, barrel racing and pole bending. Despite his accomplishments, Colton remains humble about his success.

“He doesn’t let anything go to his head,” said his dad, Roy Story. In between events, Colton helps the younger kids and gives them pointers on how to improve in their events. Colton is also active in other sports including wrestling, football and baseball. Colton is in the seventh grade at Jones Middle School and is the son of Roy and Alisha Story of Jones.

i will statements I will show my parents and teachers that I appreciate them.

I will take care of my things.

I will be content with what I have.

I will write thank you notes.

I will count my benefits rather than my burdens.

Putting character first The Character First! Project is inspired by the work of the Character Training Institute, a non-profit organization based in Oklahoma City. Character First! information is used by permission. Call 405-815-0001 for Character First! resources or visit CharacterFirst.com.

Celebrating Ten Years!

November 2008

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

33

Iron Moms The Year of the Iron Mom As we wrap up our year with Iron Mom ShaRhonda Burton, we ask her team of experts—trainer Chris Crawford, dietician LaDonna Dunlop, and life coach Mary Tucker—to tell us about their year with the Iron Mom.

This has been an experience I will never forget. I’ve received so much support from the MetroFamily staff, my family and friends. I am grateful for the support of my team—Chris, Mary, and LaDonna. The journey has been hard, but not impossible, even with setbacks like a nearfatal car accident.

It’s a wonderful feeling to go to a regular department store for clothing, and not a plus-size only store. I actually love to go shopping now.

My advice to anyone is to start slowly, with exercise each day and healthier eating habits. I focused on a lifestyle change rather than a diet. Each milestone you reach will encourage you to strive for the next one.

When I started the Iron Moms program I wore a size 30/32, and I recently reached my goal and bought a size 20. My new goal is size 16.

- ShaRhonda Burton, MetroFamily Magazine Iron Mom, who at press time has lost a total of 115.5 lbs

From Chris Crawford: The major focus of ShaRhonda’s exercise program was to burn calories, through both cardiovascular exercise (primarily walking on her own) and strength training in the gym. I used a circuit training Chris Crawford and MFM Iron Mom ShaRhonda method with ShaRhonda, which consists Burton at recent workout. of sets with weights with a short rest in between, keeping the heart rate elevated • Make healthy eating a habit. Practice it and providing optimal calorie burn. until it becomes second nature.

ShaRhonda lost weight and got stronger, • Be patient with yourself—changing and she deserves the credit for her your habits takes time, and you have to progress. She did what was asked of take small steps before you can manage her and sometimes had to be told to the big ones. slow down.

It’s been a blessing to assist ShaRhonda to success this past year; she made it easy for me by never allowing life’s roadblocks to hinder her progress. I am so proud of her accomplishments. What an inspiration!

From LaDonna Dunlop: From my viewpoint as a registered dietitian, ShaRhonda has been an ideal client. She has studied nutrition and now knows how many calories are in each bite she takes, and how many minutes of exercise required to work it off. She has developed some wonderful habits— controlling portion sizes by using a salad plate and ordering from the healthy heart section when she eats at a restaurant.

ShaRhonda took the advice of her team to heart and actively applied this knowledge to her life. She wants to lose 75 more pounds and I have no doubt that she will.

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

ShaRhonda’s success is based on her willingness to transform who she is and how she fundamentally sees herself. This is the only sustainable approach. Change is based on the past—we attempt to create a bigger, better version of the past.

Transformation is a complete shift and this is what ShaRhonda understands.

Because of this shift, ShaRhonda sees herself as a whole being, not just a body that wants to lose weight. She sees that her body is just one aspect of who she actually is and that it’s a choice she can make to maintain it properly in order for the other aspects of her to live more fully.

Now, she gets more life out of life.

Working with ShaRhonda was an inspiration to me as a coach. She really gets it.

To anyone starting on a journey of weight loss and healthy living, I offer this advice: • Learn about nutrition and how to eat healthy for your body. Read food labels, use healthy recipes, and be aware of healthy options when at a restaurant.

• Make exercise a part of every day. Get your heart rate up and get moving.

34

From Mary Tucker:

November 2008

Follow ShaRhonda’s progress at

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/blog

Celebrating Ten Years!

Norman Holiday Events For details, go to VisitNorman.com

Celebrating Ten Years!

Dec. 4

Holiday Happening .....................................Sam Sam Noble Museum (6 (6-9pm) 9pm)

Dec. 6

Christmas on the Corner .................................... Campus Corner (1-6pm)

Dec. 12

8th Holiday Art Walk ......Legacy Trail in Downtown Norman (6-10pm)

Dec. 13

Holiday Parade ..............................................Downtown Norman (10am)

Dec. 20-21November The Oklahoma2008 Nutcracker ............................................... Sooner Theatre www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com 35

Oklahoma Reads Book Reviews Picture books for Preschoolers

Fiction for Grades 4-6

Ready for the Day! and Ready for Bed!

The Field Guide to Safari Animals

by Stacey R. Kaye, illustrated

by Elizabeth O. Dulemba (Free Spirit Publishing, hardcover $12.95 each, 32 pages)

by Paul Beck (Silver Dolphin Books, hardcover $15.95, 36 pages) An interactive guide to animals formatted like a true safari field guide with photos, maps, and notes throughout. Includes paper models of featured animals and removable diorama so kids can create their own version of a safari.

These “Parent Smart Kid Happy” books are for reading together or aloud, and include pages of tips in the back for fostering positive communication between parents and kids.

Fiction for Grades 5 and up

Fiction for Grades 1-3

Enchanted Thyme

Leo: A Baby Lion’s Story

by Ariane Smith (Big Word Press, hardcover $17.95, 123 pages)

by Kathleen Duey (Smart Kids Publishing, hardcover + DVD, $12.99, 32 pages)

A fun and challenging read for kids who are interested in fantasy books and cooking. Each chapter includes a healthful recipe with easy-to-follow directions so children can create the food with the help of an adult. A glossary at the back of the book offers easy-tounderstand definitions of sometimes hard-tounderstand big words.

Part of the My Animal Family series, the beautifully-illustrated story is just the beginning; also included are a DVD with more information and a membership to the My Animal Family website, where kids can play ageappropriate games in a safe environment.

The Place for Pediatric Therapy

Find many other book titles at

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Skilled occupational therapists assist each child to reach their highest potential Fine Motor/Handwriting Skills • Self-Care Skills • Social Skills • Sensory Integration Dysfunction

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405-840-1686

November 2008

Reviews by MetroFamily Magazine editor Mari Farthing.

Celebrating Ten Years!

HATCHING THE PAST: T H E G R E AT D I N O S A U R E G G H U N T with

Arbuckle Mountains

Local exhibition is made possible

by Chesapeake Energy.

Media sponsorship provided by:

Oct. 11 through Jan. 19 This hands-on exhibition invites visitors to touch real dinosaur bones, dig for eggs, experience hands-on exploration stations and more!

Hatching the Past was developed by Charlie and Florence Magovern of The Stone Company, Boulder, Colorado in association with the Harvard Museum of Natural History.

The University of Oklahoma I

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Download your copy of our ExploringOKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kids Pass to enjoy savings at 35 Oklahoma destinations including Oklahoma Aquarium, Toy & Action Figure Museum, HeyDay Entertainment, Science Museum Oklahoma, and more.

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I

w w w. s n o m n h . o u . e d u

www.ExploringOK.com

The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution. For accommodations on the basis of disability call 405-325-4712.

Celebrating Ten Years!

November 2008

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37

Your Healthy Family Navigating the Diet Web

L

ike many women, I have struggled with the same 15 (and by that, I mean 18) extra pounds since becoming a mom. I have lost them and regained them a dozen times over, and have tried as many weight loss plans along the way. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even want to think about how much money Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve spent over the years losing and regaining my 15 (18) problem pounds.

You name it, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve probably tried it. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve counted calories and points and had prepackaged mealsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;all of which tasted strangely alikeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;delivered to my home.

I can honestly report that all of these

Iron Moms MetroFamily invites you to chime in about your weight loss and fitness experiences at our website. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also find inspiration by following our Iron Mom ShaRhonda Burton who has lost over 100 pounds to date.

MetroFamilyMagazine. com/Iron-moms.

EXTREME ANIMALS 7EĂ&#x2020;BRINGĂ&#x2020;THEĂ&#x2020;ZOOĂ&#x2020;TOĂ&#x2020;YOU

measures workedâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;in the short-term. trials, all of which required a credit card I would reach my goal, or get tired of number before I could see anything paying for cardboard food, or just get worthwhile. But there were also a few tired altogetherâ&#x20AC;Ś and inevitably, my standouts, sites that were free and 15 (18) problem pounds would come included recipes, meal plans, nutrition creeping back to their comfortable and fitness trackers, and community home base, also known as my hips and message boards, among other features. thighs. The money question got me Among the best I found: wondering what kind of free resources DietBites.com includes recipes and were available for people like me, full-meal plans based on a balanced people who want to be healthier and diet of lean proteins, fresh fruits and feel better permanently, and wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t vegetables, and whole grains. There is a mind looking good along the way. What calorie calculator included, and dozens online options are there for working of articles addressing topics such as class Americans in a perpetual time motivation, heart health, and nutrition. crunch? I did a little investigating, and It also includes a dieting journal. was pleasantly surprised by my findings, and just had to pass them along.

I would recommend this site for its articles and recipes, and I bookmarked it for that reason. It was a little difficult Blogging to navigate, however, for other tools Ever considered writing about your such as charting nutrition and exercise. weight loss experience on a web log?

Recording your story on a blog may help keep you on track. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have a written record of both your mistakes and your successes, so you can look back easily and see whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s working.

There is also the added benefit that your success may inspire others. Sites such as 3fatchicks.com and mycalorie-counter.com have diet journal templates where you can write about your experiences and read about othersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; successes.

Free Weight Loss Sites First, I should note that several of my Google hits were not actually free plans at all. I found a number of cleverly (and some not-so-cleverly) disguised free

Birthday Parties (inside or outside) Educational Programs Church Events Corporate Events Halloween Parties Fall Festivals #ALLĂ&#x2020;USĂ&#x2020;FORĂ&#x2020;AĂ&#x2020;WILDLYĂ&#x2020;UNIQUEĂ&#x2020;EXPERIENCE Melissa Meadows 405.413.3157 Terrie Klontz 405.826.2032 www.extremeanimals.org 38

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FitDay.com is a little more comprehensive, and was easily navigated with a tab menu. It provides a diet journal, nutrition and fitness trackers. I loved that on your profile page, it gives you all of your information in chart formats: weight change, BMI change, fitness and nutrition information, and even a mood tracker! Missing from this site: recipes and articles. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not a cook, and are just looking for a journal and calorie counter, this is an excellent choice, as the format is accessible and concise.

SparkPeople.com has a lot to offer. In addition to nutrition and fitness trackers, there are hundreds of articles on health

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Celebrating Ten Years!

topics, nutrition, and motivation. The fitness section recommends specific exercises for targeted areas, and even provides a video demonstration of how to properly complete new exercises. The site offers both meal plans and recipes to work with, and message boards to network with people worldwide who share the same goals. The site features a points system, in which you can earn points for certain activities and for fitness minutes.

Local Help For a fantastic local site, also check out ThisCityIsGoingOnADiet.com. The site is the result of a challenge from mayor Mick Cornett to the citizens of Oklahoma City to lose one million pounds. Cornett last year sought to bring the obesity epidemic into the forefront in Oklahoma City, which ranks among the top ten most obese cities in the USA. The site features

healthy recipes, as well as links to other internet resources, such as those mentioned above. It also includes a schedule of local events, such as organized walks, bike rides, cooking demonstrations, and public health fairs.

Visitors can set up an account and log their weight loss against the one million pound challenge.

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

Read more Healthy Family articles at:

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ I am currently four pounds into my online dieting adventure, and have had Family-Health good days and bad. I find it comforting to know that even when I get off track, I haven’t lost any money. Free sites and blogging make it easier to get back on the horse and keep going. Who to visit MetroFamilyMagazine.com knows? Maybe I’ll this month: get rid of those 15 (18) pounds once and for all!

Check out the NEW “Frugal Mom” blog by author Kim

The Top Five Reasons 5. Danger. MetroFamilyMagazine.com/frugal-mom

Experience the beginnings of a lifetime!

more “car guide” information about buying the best 4. Find new and used family cars. MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ car-guide

for all kinds of prizes, including four tickets to 3. Register the holiday event of the season, Radio City Christmas

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your Parent University tickets. It may 2. Purchase be just the “ticket” to a more peaceful family life!

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stuffing yourself with turkey and the trimmings, 1. After check out our Family Fun section and calendar for ideas of fun places to entertain the entire extended family!

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39

Exploring Oklahoma The Heartland Flyer

W

hen we talk about travel, we usually talk about destinations, but this month’s column is all about the journey!

just take the Heartland Flyer as an example.

Riding Oklahoma’s passenger train, the Heartland Flyer, is the tenth and final thing on my list of travel resolutions for the year. I am a bit of a train enthusiast, so this won’t be a first-time journey for me. In fact, in addition to riding the Heartland Flyer twice and traveling the length of the Eastern Seaboard on another Amtrak route last July, I have also boarded trains in five other countries. So speaking as someone who has literally gone the distance, I can tell you that trains are officially my favorite mode of transportation. Why? Well let’s

For more information about the train including schedules, destination information and special events: HeartlandFlyer.com For information about attraction and public transportation in Fort Worth: TexasEagle.com/stations/ FTW.htm The Toy and Action Figure Museum: ActionFigureMuseum.com To book tickets and check prices for the Heartland Flyer (fares often vary, but children 2-15 ride for half-price): Amtrak.com

40

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The Flyer makes one round trip between Oklahoma City and Fort Worth every day, with stops in Norman, Purcell, Pauls Valley, Ardmore, and Gainesville.

When making the same trip by car, I have to worry about traffic, rest stops, driver fatigue, and gas prices. But on the train, I simply get on and then get off about four hours later. The bathrooms onboard are clean, the café car is well stocked, and I can usually squeeze in a nap if I’m not too interested in the scenery.

And speaking of scenery, have you ever seen a bald eagle from I-35? Although I haven’t, in January and February they are usually easy to spot when the train passes through the Washita River area south of Pauls Valley—sometimes the conductor even slows down for a better view.

Trains can be a particularly good transportation choice for families, if for no other reason than the fact that they are trains; most kids will be excited just to get onboard and see one in real life—which can’t be said for the family truckster. Also unlike the minivan, passengers can get up to stretch their legs and move around the car, and there are occasionally entertainment programs taking place during the journey, like the upcoming Santa Train on December 13, during which Santa will ride the train to talk with children and hand out candy canes onboard and at every stop along the route. In the summer, the Trails and Rails program occasionally provides volunteers from the National Parks Service to talk about the history and geographic features of the areas that fly by the train’s large windows.

One of the obvious drawbacks to train travel is that when you get where you are going, you don’t have a car—but there are ways around that problem. If your destination is Fort Worth, there are a number of attractions within

November 2008

five miles of the station, such as the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History and the Fort Worth Botanical Garden. Cabs are available in front of the station, and there are also public transportation options.

Disembarking at one of the train’s earlier stops might be an even better option for families with children because the fares will be cheaper, the ride shorter and the small towns are easier to navigate on foot. In Pauls Valley, for example, the Toy and Action Figure Museum is just a couple blocks from the station, and the Santa Fe Depot Museum around the corner houses a retired steam locomotive and a vintage caboose, as well as other artifacts. In Gainesville, a free trolley operates on weekends between the train depot, downtown, the Frank Buck Zoo, and the Gainesville Factory Shops, where you will find more than three dozen name brand outlet stores.

No matter where you decide to end your journey on the Heartland Flyer, I know you won’t regret taking the train. Because it follows a different route than the highway, you will see parts of Oklahoma you could never see from a car. And because you won’t be watching the road for once, you will see something else that is often missing in the car on road trips: your family, having fun.

Chelsey Simpson is an editor who lives in Edmond with her husband and her miniature schnauzer, Ellie.

Celebrating Ten Years!

For a free travel guide call 866-GPC-OKLA or visit www.greatplainscountry.com.

Produced in cooperation with the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department

www.travelok.com

Celebrating Ten Years!

November 2008

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

41

Quick Reference City Arts Center Fair Park, 3000 Pershing Blvd, OKC 951-0000, CityArtsCenter.org.

Fine Arts Institute of Edmond 27 E. Edwards, Edmond 340-4481, EdmondFineArts.com Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art 555 Elm Ave, Norman 325-3272, ou.edu/fjjma Little River Zoo Hwy 9, Norman 366-7229, LittleRiverZoo.com Myriad Botanical Gardens 301 W Reno, OKC 297-3995, MyriadGardens.com National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC 478-2250, NationalCowboyMuseum.org Oklahoma Aquarium 300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks 918-296-FISH, OKAquarium.org OKC Museum of Art 415 Couch Dr, OKC 236-3100, okcmoa.org OKC National Memorial 620 N Harvey, OKC 235-3313, OklahomaCityNationalMemorial.org OKC Zoo 2101 NE 50th St, OKC 424-3344, OKCZoo.com Oklahoma Children’s Theatre 2501 N Blackwelder, OKC 606-7003, OklahomaChildrensTheatre.com Oklahoma Heritage Center 13th & Shartel, OKC 235-4458, OklahomaHeritage.com Oklahoma History Center 2401 N Laird Ave, OKC 522-5248, OklahomaHistoryCenter.org

Weekly

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

Make & Take craft activities at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May, OKC), Saturdays, 11am-3pm. Free for kids 3 and up. 858-8778, LakeshoreLearning.com.

Family Fun Night at JumpZone (SW 104th & Western) Tuesdays and Thursday, 4:30-8pm. 2 adults, 2 children, 1 large pizza, 2 liter pop for $25. For open play hours call 200-1691, JumpZoneParty.com.

Silly Sundays at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise Dr, Edmond). Sundays, 1-6pm. Free face painting with paid admission or craft purchase. 340-7584, Unpluggits. com.

Tired GrownUps Night at Unpluggits Playstudio.

Thursdays, 4-8pm. Reduced admission price, free snacks. 340-7584, Unpluggits.com.

The UCO Jazz Lab features performances Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm. $7 adults, $5 age 12 and under. 3597989, UCOJazzLab.com.

Children’s Storytime at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expy) Saturdays, 10:15am. 842-2900, FullCircleBooks.com.

Art Classes for Home-Schooled Children at City Arts Center, 2-3pm. Designed to compliment home school activities with a focus on drawing two-dimensional basics. For ages 5-7 and 8-12. $50.

Through Nov 19

Wide-Open Wednesdays at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Free admission every Wednesday.

The Hound of the Baskervilles at the Civic Center Music Hall, 8pm. Tickets $16. 297-2264.

Through Nov 27

Passport to Plants at the Myriad Botanical Gardens.

Explore the plants and people of six unique countries.

297-3995, MyriadGardens.com.

Nov 28-Dec 21

Monthly

Gymboree Play & Music of Norman’s Family Arts Studio is held the third Saturday, 11am-noon. Includes arts & crafts for children 18 mos–5 years. $5 per child.

Reservations required; 307-8454.

StoryTime at Gymboree Penn Square, first Friday of every month, 10am. 842-7540.

Nov 6-Jan 18

Through Nov 8

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

Through Nov 17

Sunday Nature Hikes at Martin Park Nature Center.

Guided park tour and nature hike, Sundays 2:30pm. $2; reservations required. 755-0676.

Science Museum Oklahoma 2100 NE 52nd St, OKC 602-OMNI, ScienceMuseumOK.org

42

The Shawnee Maze and Pumpkin Patch includes a corn maze, hay rides, pumpkin patch, campfire, and farm animals. 275-9780, CornFieldMaze.com.

Nov 27-Jan 1

The American Impressionism: Paintings from the Phillips Collection exhibit at the OKC Museum of Art. See Close Up, page 44 for details.

Email it to Calendar Editor Terri Fields, Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

Through Nov 15

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art, Saturdays 1-4pm. Kids create art inspired by the Museum’s exhibitions. Free with paid admission.

Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman 325-4712, snomnh.ou.edu

Do you have an event for our calendar?

8:30am-5pm. Oklahoma Artist display works including jewelry, cards, crafts, and fine arts. Free. 609-1022, ArtsAtStLukes.org.

The Orr Family Pumpkin Patch open Fridays 6-8:30pm ($8.50 ages 2 and up) and Saturdays 10am6pm ($10.50 ages 2 and up). Pumpkin patch, carousel, farm animals, and activities. OrrFamilyFarm.com.

Nov 8-Dec 28

Holiday Show and Sale at the McPhail Gallery, St. Luke’s United Methodist Church (222 NW 15th),

November 2008

Bethany’s Children’s Center accepts Holiday Baby Basics donations. See page 12 for details.

A Nice Family Gathering comedy at the Stage Center Arena Theatre, tickets 297-2264,OKCCivicCenter.com.

Romeo and Juliet at the Stage Center, 8pm. 297-2264, OKCCivicCenter.com.

A Territorial Christmas Carol at Guthrie’s Pollard Theater, 8pm. Tickets $15 and up. 282-2800, ThePollard. org.

Nov 28-Dec 28

Free Bricktown Water Taxi rides Thursdays-Sundays, 6-9:30pm.

Nov 30-Dec 28

Free admission to the Oklahoma Heritage Museum and Oklahoma City National Memoria Museum each Sunday, 1-6pm courtesy of American Fidelity.

Through Dec 7

Traditional Cowboy Arts Association 10th Annual Exhibition, Sale and Seminar at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum features the best saddlemaking, bit and spur making, silversmithing and rawhide braiding.

Celebrating Ten Years!

NOVEMBER S

Through Dec

Reporting Terrorism Exhibit at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum.

The Scorpio-Sagittarius Connection at the Science Museum Oklahoma planetarium.

Through Jan 4

The Savior or Spoiler: Teddy Roosevelt as a ThirdParty Candidate in 1912 exhibit at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum examines the impact of this American icon.

American Artists form the Russian Empire at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art. More than 90 works examine the impact of American culture on Russian Artists.

2 • Sunday

Oklahoma Thunder takes on the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Ford Center, 6pm. Tickets $10 and up. 602-8700, OKFordCenter.com. Other games held 11/5, 9, 12, 17, 19, 21, 25, and 28.

The OU School of Music presents the Sutton Faculty Concert Series with the Oklahoma Collegium Musicum performing the Music of Josquin Des Pres. 3pm, Gothic Hall of the Catlett Music Center (500 W Boyd, Norman). $8 adults, $5 students and faculty. 325-4101. Other events held throughout the month; visit music.ou.edu for schedule.

Under the Big Top: Symphony at the Circus at the Civic Center Music Hall, 2pm. Part of the Discovery Series. Tickets $9. 297-2264, OKCCivicCenter.com.

Exhibit: Craft in America—Expanding Traditions at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

Oklahoma Youth Orchestra and The Harrison Academy Symphonic Winds at Edmond North High School (215 W Danforth), 3pm. Admission $5, families $10, students $2. 232-1199, info@harrisonacademy.org.

Through Jan 19

3 • Monday

Through Jan 18

Hatching the Past: The Great Dinosaur Egg Hunt Exhibit at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. Visitors can touch real dinosaur bones and reconstructed nests—one more than eight feet in diameter, dig for eggs, experience hands-on exploration stations and view animated video presentations featuring well-known dinosaur experts.

Through May 25

Shipwreck! Pirates & Treasure on exhibit at Science Museum Oklahoma. See Close Up, page 44 for details.

NOVEMBER 1 • Saturday

Hitchcock at the Movies at the Civic Center Music Hall, 8pm. A spine-tingling evening of big-screen movie thrillers with a full-size orchestra. Tickets $12 and up.

842-5327, OKCPhilharmonic.org.

Fall Into Art at Martin Park Nature Center, noon-5pm.

Local artists booths, live music and kids activities. Free.

755-0676.

CLUE the Musical at the Family Theatre Warehouse (907 W Britton), 7pm. Also held 11/7-8 at 7pm, 11/9, 2pm. $10 adults, $8 kids and seniors. 848-SHOW or FamilyTheatreWarehouse.com.

Fall Paperback Book Sale at the Mabel C. Fry Public Library, 10am-3pm. 354-8232, Yukon.Lib.OK.US. Annual Pumpkin Harvest Craft Festival at the Robertson Activity Center in Yukon, 9am-4pm. Over 45 crafters, featuring candles, jewelry, home decor, wood crafts, and quilts. Admission is Free. 350-8937.

Celebrating Ten Years!

Free admission to the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History.

The 6th Annual 4H Chili and Bean Supper benefits OK County 4H projects. Includes dinner and silent and live auctions. $3 adults, $2 ages 6-12, 5 and under free.

5:30-7pm, OK County OSU Auditorium (930 N Portland).

Details, 713-1125.

4 • Tuesday

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 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

Election Day. Registered voters, don’t forget to get to the polls and place your vote.

Art Adventures at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art is for children ages 3-5 with parent, and includes a story and related art project. Free; 10:30am. Also held 11/11, 18, and 25.

Tuesday Noon Contests at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art features a 30-minute performance with OU School of Music school and faculty. Free. Also held 11/11, 18, and 25.

Dinosaur Story Time for children ages 4-8 at the Del City Library, 6:30-7:15pm.

6 • Thursday

Jones, 111 E Main, 399-5471 Luther, 310 NE 3rd, 277-9967 Nicoma Park, 2240 Overholser, 769-9452 Wright Library, 2101 Exchange, 235-5035

Pioneer Library System 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

La Dolce Vita Girls Night Out at Bravo Cucina, (Penn & Memorial) 7-8:30pm. Enjoy a short program with life coach Mary Tucker. Book signing of Dating da Vinci by Malena Lott. Complimentary appetizers and tea. Free.

Must RSVP to malenalott@mac.com. Limited seating.

Teacher Professional Development: The Real Dirt on Dinosaurs at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, 9am-1pm. This session will cover a brief history of the earth, dinosaur ecology, basic

Noble, 204 N 5th, 872-5713 Norman, 225 N Webster, 701-2600 Purcell, 919 N Ninth, 527-5546 Shawnee, 101 N Philadelphia, 275-6353 Tecumseh, 114 N Broadway, 598-5955

November 2008

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43

On Exhibit • On Exhibit • On Exhibit • On Exhibit 44

Aarrrgh, mateys! The Shipwreck!

Pirates & Treasure exhibit at Science Museum Oklahoma opened in October, and reveals the science of deep-sea shipwreck exploration.

This major traveling exhibit features hands-on, interactive exhibits and hundreds of artifacts.

Visitors will learn pirate stories and see shipwreck treasures such as gold, silver, and artifacts from the SS republic, the greatest shipwreck of the Civil War. The Shipwreck! exhibit will be on display through Memorial Day of 2009. Admission to the special exhibit is $21.90 adults, $17.70 seniors, $16.70 children (includes museum entrance).

Science Museum Oklahoma is located at 2100 NE 52nd Street in Oklahoma City. Museum hours are Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday 11am-6pm. Call 602-6664 or visit ScienceMuseumOK.org for more information.

dinosaur body plans, and how scientists discover and study dinosaurs. For teachers of grades K-5. $15 per person. Pre-register. 325-4712.

Bruce Goff Lecture Series at Untitled [Artspace], 5pm. Architect Coleman Coker will speak. Free.

815-9995, 1ne3.org Rightsizing Your Life Workshop at Church of the Servant, (14343 N MacArthur) 7-8:30pm. Learn steps to declutter and simplify with local CPA and workshop facilitator, Doris Beaton. $25. 720-8480.

Trinity School’s A Novel Feast at a private home in Edmond’s Fairview Farmfeatures an evening of local fine food and wine with readings by local authors including Jim Chastain, Charles Rushton, Anna Myers, and Glenda Carlile. $125 per person. Call 478-5476 or visit TrinitySchoolOKC.org for reservations.

Noon Tunes presents Lee Rucker’s Edmond Jazz Trio at the Downtown Library. All ages, 11:30am-1pm.

7 • Friday

OKC Blazers take on Texas Brahmas at the Ford Center, 7:10pm. Tickets $10 and up. 602-8700, OKFordCenter.com. Other games held 11/8, 20, 23, 26, and 29.

Dance a l’Art: Disco Fever at the Molly Shi Boren Ballroom, (OU Memorial Union) 7-11pm. A ‘70s theme, disco costume contest, dancing, and silent auction.

Tickets $30, Reservations required. 360-1162, NAC@ NormanArts.org.

7-8

Tween & Teen Conference at UCO Campus in Edmond. Bonding opportunity for mothers and daughters, dance, fashion show, more than 50 breakout sessions. $25. Registration required. 5283535, GSWestOK.org.

The Lyric Theatre holds auditions for the 2009 Lyric at the Plaza series. Friday 3:30-5:30pm, Saturday 11am-6:30pm. Details, call 524-9310 or visit LyricTheatreOKC.com/auditions.

Beach Ponies by Reynolds Beal. 1918, oil on canvas.

The Oklahoma City Museum of Art hosts 54 works from the golden age of American impressionism, November 6, 2008 through January 18, 2009. American Impressionism: Paintings from The Phillips Collection includes celebrated American artists Childe Hassam, Maurice Prendergast, John Henry Twatchman, and J. Alden Weir.

Highlights of the exhibition include landscape paintings depictingscenes from Connecticut, New Hampshire, New York, eastern Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts. These early works formed the cornerstone of the museum and continue to inform the development of its collection.

The Oklahoma City Museum of Art is located at 415 Couch Drive in Oklahoma City. Museum hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday, 10am-5pm.; Thursday and Friday, 10am-9pm; and Sunday, noon-5pm. Call 236-3100 or visit OKCMOA.com to learn more.

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

November 2008

8 • Saturday

Carmina Burana with Canterbury Choral Society at the Civic Center Music Hall, 8pm. Tickets $12 and up.

297-2264, OKCCivicCenter.com.

Archaeology…Ethnology…and Native American Languages: The Whys and Hows workshop for adults at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, 9am-1pm. Pre-registration required. Members $15, Non-members $25.

Veteran’s Day Parade in Downtown Shawnee, 11am.

Guthrie Art Walk in Downtown Guthrie, 2-8pm.

Featuring over a dozen local artists with various styles and mediums. Free. 293-4546, Myspace.com/ Celebrating Ten Years!

Debbie J. Moore GuthrieArtWalk.

Zoofriends, $15 non-members. Registration required.

Junior Zookeeper Day Camp at Little River Zoo, 10am-4pm. Learn about zoo keeping, ecology, and conservation. $49. 366-7229.

Art After Hours at Normanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art includes light refreshments and a 45-minute talk on works in the museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection. 5:30pm.

International Adoption Workshop at Trinity Baptist Church, (801 N Peters) in Norman, 9:30am-3pm. 3290531. See page 10 for details.

14 â&#x20AC;˘ Friday

The Oklahoma Brain Tumor Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 5th Annual Race for Hope at Lake Overholser, 8am. Registration 6:30am. Includes 5K, 12K, 1 mile Family Fun Run, Dog Jog, and Kids 50 Yard Fun Run. Registration $20 and up, kids run free. 843-HOPE, OKBTF.org.

Family Night Out: Natural Dyeing at Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, 6-8:30pm. Enjoy pizza and drinks for dinner, and learn to collect and prepare wild plants, then turn the plants into dye to make your own placemats or napkins. $10 members, $12 non-members. Space is limited, pre-registration is required. 325-4712.

Loweâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kids Workshop: Make a Semi Truck at participating Lowes locations, 10-11am. For 1st-5th graders. Register online at LowesBuildandGrow.com.

Also held November 22.

Opening Reception: Roots & Ties II at Untitled [Artspace], 5-8pm. Features artists with Oklahoma ties who moved to the East Coast to find artistic success.

Free. 815-9995, 1ne3.org.

The Pancreatic Cancer Garden Walk to raise awareness will be held at 10am at the Biomedical Research Center (975 NE 19th). 9am registraion. 2712108 or w3.ouhsc.edu/surgery/pancan/index.htm.

The 50 Shot Sporting Clays Tournament at Guthrieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Silverleaf Shotgun Sports (8513 S Douglas) invites teams and individuals to participate. Noon lunch, 1pm shotgun start. 341-2808, EdmondChamber.com for registration details.

8-9

Heartland Renaissance Faire at Shawneeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Heartland Amphitheate, 10am-6pm. Live sword fighting, food, reenactors, and activities. Free; FaireALaCarte.com.

9 â&#x20AC;˘ Sunday

The Huun Huur Tu Tuvan Throat Singers perform at the Downtown Library, 2pm. Also held at other library locations 11/10,11,13, and 14. Visit MetroLibrary.org for schedule.

10 â&#x20AC;˘ Monday

The 10th Annual Safe and Healthy Schools conference will be held in Oklahoma City. See page 13 for details.

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14-15

Women of Faith Conference at the Ford Center, 7pm.

Tickets $75 and up. 888-49FAITH, WomenofFaith.com.

14-16

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The first annual Hoops for Autism basketball tournament for athletes in grades 3-8 benefits the Oklahoma Family Center for Autism. Held at OCU (2501 NW Blackwelder). Details at 245-7246 or OKAutism.org.

Vanessa Hill, Independent Consultant

405.623.6686

15 â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday

HERITAGEMAKERS COM VANESSAHILL

Oklahoma WineFest â&#x20AC;&#x2122;08 at 50 Penn Place, 10am-8pm.

25 state wineries offer wine tastings, entertainment, and

11 â&#x20AC;˘ Tuesday

Vetaranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Celebration at the 45th Infantry Division Museum, (2145 NE 36th) 10-11am. Ceremony includes a military fly over, Massing of the Colors, 145th Army Band and guest speaker. 424-5313, 45thDivisionMuseum.com.

EEasy, Ea asy sy Sa Safe f Babysitting fe Bab abys ysiit ys itti t ng Solutions Sol o ut utio ions io n ns

Homeschool Day at the Oklahoma Aquarium. $7 students, $10 adults. Registration required.

Blessing of the Pets at the K9 University Campus, 68pm. PawsforFriendshipInc.org. See page 13 for details.

11-16

The Rat Pack â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Live at the Sands at the Civic Center Music Hall. Tickets 297-2264, OKCCivicCenter.com.

13 â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday

Visit us online to ďŹ nd out more: Last Minute, One-Time Need, Full-Time Sitter, Overnight, Groups and more!

www.seekingsitters.com

Full Moon Night Hike at the OKC Zoo, 6-8pm. $12

Celebrating Ten Years!

(405) 416-3588 November 2008

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

45

Family Fun • Family Fun • Family Fun • Family Fun 46

At the end of the month, take advantage of the holiday happenings around the Metro and the state. Christmas may not be until December, but many holiday events get underway in November.

• The Midwest City Holiday Lights Spectacular at Joe B. Barnes Regional Park in Midwest City, is open from 6-10pm from November 21 through December 30. Over one million lights and horse drawn carriage rides. Free. 739-1293, VisitMidwestCity.com.

• Holiday in the Park at Elmer Thomas Park in Lawton runs from November 21 through January 4. 580-355-3541.

• Christmas in the Park at Yukon’s City Park, is open from 6-11pm, November 22 through December 31. Three city parks are decorated with millions of lights through the illuminated tour. Horse drawn wagon rides, the Santa Express train and walking tours are available. Admission is free, donations accepted. 350-8937, CityofYukonOK.gov.

• Festival of Light at Shannon Springs Park in Chickasha is open from 6-11pm, November 25 through December 31. Walk or drive through, concessions, Santa, carriage rides, and shopping.

Free. 224-9627, ChickashaFestivalofLight.com.

Downtown Arts Market in Downtown Norman, 10am-3pm. Event includes animals, storytelling, pumpkin painting, and live music. Free. 701-0048, DreamerConcepts.org.

Ultimate Craft Bazaar at Unpluggits Playstudio, 9am4pm. Christmas shopping with unique and handmade gifts. 340-7584, Unpluggits.com.

An Adoption Fair will be held at OKC’s First Church of the Nazarene, 9am-noon. See page 10 for details.

Blue Star Mothers of NW OKC/Edmond pack holiday boxes at Henderson Hills Baptist church. See page 12 for details.

16 • Sunday

Coldplay at the Ford Center, 7:30pm. Tickets $49.50 and up. 602-8700, OKFordCenter.com.

German-American Heritage Event at Fort Reno in El Reno, 2pm. A special memorial service for the German and Italian Prisoners of War buried in the Fort Reno Post Cemetery POW Annex. 262-3987, FortReno.org.

Oklahoma’s 101st birthday celebration at the Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum includes the sealing of the official Centennial time capsule at 1pm. Free; noon-5pm.

18 • Tuesday

Jerusalem Lyric Trio at Oklahoma City Community College Theatre, 7pm. Tickets $10 and up. 682-7579, OCCC.edu/cas.

• Passport to Christmas at the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory features holiday decorations from around the world, November 25 through December 31.

• Downtown in December features outdoor ice skating at the Civic Center, snow tubing at the AT&T Bricktown Ballpark, and water taxi excursions on the canal, from November 28 through January 1. DowntownInDecember.com.

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

workshops. Tickets $15, children and designated drivers $5. OklahomaWines.org.

UCO’s Broadway Tonight presents OLIVER! musical at Civic Center Music Hall. 7:30pm. 297-2264, OKCCivicCenter.com.

19 • Wednesday

The Soap Making workshop for children age 6 and up with parent includes demonstration on soapmaking and samples. Belle Isle Library, 7-8:30pm. Pre-register at information desk.

20 • Thursday

Open House at Gymboree Play & Music in Northpark Mall, 6-9pm. 20% off toys, learning materials, and gift certificates. Free. 755-3445.

It’s a Grand Ole Flag at the Mabel Fry Public Library, 4-5:15pm. Learn about the history of the American Flag, flag etiquette and a flag ceremony. Pre-registration required. Free. 354-8232, Yukon.Lib.OK.US.

21 • Friday

Artist Talk with Lacye Swilley-Russell at Untitled [ArtSpace], 6:30pm. The talk is in conjunction with the Collagraphy workshop. 815-9995, 1ne3.org.

November 2008

Celebrating Ten Years!

22 â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday

I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas at the OKC Zoo, 2-3pm. Learn about the Zooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first hippo and visit current residents. Includes a craft and snack. $12 Zoofriends, $15 non-members, parents free with paid child. Pre-registration required.

30 â&#x20AC;˘ Sunday

Cirque Du Soleilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Saltimbanco at the Ford Center.

Tickets, $40 and up. 602-8700, OKFordCenter.com.

Lawtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 14th Annual Frost Yaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Fanny 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run with Candy Cane Chase at Elmer Thomas Park, 5:15pm. 5K registration $15 and up.

Pre-registration deadline 11/17. Register online Cityof.

Lawton.OK.US, 580-581-3400.

Territorial Christmas Celebration at Harn Homestead, 5-8pm. Tour decorated historic buildings and grounds, take a winter hay ride around the property, enjoy holiday crafts and games, and get your photo taken with Santa. $5 per person, $4 per senior, children 3 and under are free. 235-4058, HarnHomestead.com.

4 â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday

Garland Arts & Crafts Show at the Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center in Shawnee, 10am-5pm. Quilts, purses, wood items, baby items, and candles. Free. 3992070, 640-4563, VisitShawnee.com.

Craft Harvest Show at Lawtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Comanche County Fairgrounds, 8am-5pm. 580-583-5190.

7 â&#x20AC;˘ Sunday

23 â&#x20AC;˘ Sunday

Oliver! at the Rose State Performing Arts Theatre, 7:30pm. Tickets $44.50 and up. UCOK.edu/Broadway.

Family Day at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art explores art from around the world through the museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection and family-friendly activities. Free admission. 1-4pm.

Toby Macâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Winter Wonder-Slam Tour at the Cox Center, 6pm.. Tickets $25. 235-8288, CoxConventionCenter.com.

26 â&#x20AC;˘ Wednesday

Scout Day at the Oklahoma Aquarium. Members in uniform or carrying a membership card will receive discounted admission.

27 â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday

Happy Thanksgiving to your family from everyone at MetroFamily Magazine.

Turkey Trot at Stars and Stripes Park (South shore of Lake Hefner), 8am. Registration 7am. Includes an 8k USATF sanctioned run,1 mile fun run, and Little Gobblerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dash. Pre-registration $20 and up. Register online EagleRidgeInstitute.com. 840-1359.

readers at reasonable rates.

Call Today!

405.340.1404

6 â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday

Cowboy Christmas in Stockyards City, 10am. The parade will include the 100 signature longhorn steers along with floats, public officials, local celebrities, Native American Dancers, championship rodeo cowboys and cowgirls, Miss Rodeo USA 2008 and Cowboy Santa who will be available after the parade to take pictures.

Free. 235-7267, StockyardsCity.org

22-23

80,000

December 3-7

Kris Kringle Karnival at the Yukon Community Center, 6pm. Games, face painting, prize drawings, live entertainment, and pictures with Kris Kringle. Free horse drawn wagon rides and the Santa Express Train.

350-8937, CityofYukonOK.gov.

Chill Your Cheeks 5K Run and Jingle Walk at Chisholm Trail Park in Yukon, 5pm. $20 adult, $15 kids include T-shirt. Register by November 7. 350-8920.

Reach over

Trans-Siberian Orchestra at the Ford Center, 3pm and 7:30pm. Tickets $34.50 and up. 602-8700, OKFordCenter.com.

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Westmoore High School PTSAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1st Annual Holiday Tour of Homes features a tour of decorated homes in SW OKC. Event benefits the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scholarship fund.

2-5pm; tickets $15 at Westmoore (12613 S Western) on the day of the event.

Temple Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;nai Israelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s A Taste of Hanukkah holiday bazaar features traditional and modern religious and cultural gifts, traditional foods (such as corned beef and Jewish delicacies), and crafts for sale, 11am-4pm. Free; 4901 N Penn. 848-0965.

13 â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday

The Heartland Flyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Santa Train features a visit with Santa Claus. HeartlandFlyer.com. See page 40 for details.

26-28

The Radio City Music Hallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rockettes perform at The OKC Ford Center. See page 12 for details.

Book Your Entire Party Now on our website for a Free JZ T-shirt

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Look for MetroFamilyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comprehensive Holiday Activity Listing in our December issue, on stands starting December 1st.

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November 2008

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

47

Guitar lessons Ages 6+!

Join our rock band & acoustic class!

A unique program that offers a complete guitar education, rock band and acoustic classes. s $EGREED %XPERIENCED )NSTRUCTOR s 'REAT FOR KIDS NEW TO GUITAR LESSONS s )NDIVIDUAL ATTENTION IN A LOW PRESSURE ENVIRONMENT s #LASSES ARE HELD AT THE Fine Arts Institute of Edmond

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Call Doug at 340-8294 Cards

Childbirth bi th & Babies

Bone one Marrow and Stem Cell Transplant Transplan support oup third Thursday at 6pm. OU Medical Center (700 group, NE 13th), 5th floor. 943-8888.

La Leche League meets at Gymboree Play & Music in Norman the second Saturday of each month, 10amnoon. Family Gym is available at $5 per family for partners and children of La Leche League Meeting attendees.

Crossings Community Church (14600 N Portland) holds a variety of Care Series classes and support groups.

755-2227 or CrossingsOKC.org.

DACO (Doula Association of Central OK), 455-1500, DACOinc.org.

La Leche League breastfeeding information and support. Meetings in Moore and NW OKC. Visit the calendar at MetroFamilyMagazine.com for dates, times, and contact info. lllusa.org.

Counseling & Support

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Pò BOZ TJOHMF JUFN JO TUPSF 3209 S. Broadway, Suite 105 t 562-4554 Edmond Exchange â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NW corner of 33rd & Broadway

Divorce Recovery Group, Wednesdays at 7pm, Quail Springs Church of Christ (14401 N May), room 308.

755-4790.

Free drug and alcohol addiction classes offered by A Chance to Change Foundation at the Last Frontier Council Scout Service Center (3031 NW 64th), 6:308pm Mondays. 840-9000, AChanceToChange.org.

Grief Support Group, Wednesdays at 7pm, Quail Springs Church of Christ (14401 N May), room 110.

755-4790.

H.O.P.E. Gynecologic Cancer Support at the OU Physicians Building, (5th floor) the first Saturday of each month at 10am. 271-8001 ext 48165, 672-1748.

Mondays Friends Breast Cancer Support Group second Monday, 7pm. Midwest Regional Breast Care Center. 610-8872, jean.pitzer@mrmc.hma-corp.com.

Birth Parent support group, first Monday, 6-7:30pm.

Deaconess Pregnancy & Adoption Services (5300 N Meridian). 949-4200 ext 13.

Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s support group, second Wednesday at noon.

The Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital at OU Medical Center (740 NE 13th Street), Jimmy Everest Center. 943-8888.

Gingerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s G Ging inn gge ger erâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s e râ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rrâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;ss of Oklahoma City

United Methodist Church of the Servant (14343 N MacArthur), holds Discoveries Program classes for adults. Call Gayle 720-8480 for full listing.

Pancreatic Cancer support group, last Thursday, 6pm. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donoghue Research Building (1122 NE 13th Street), 3rd Floor Surgery Research Conference Room.

271-2108 or ouhsc.edu/surgery/pancan.

Breast Cancer Survivor support group, second Thursday, 6:30pm. Young Survival Coalition (for women under 40), third Wednesday, noon. Breast Imaging of OK (2601 Kelley Pointe Pkwy, Edmond).

844-2601 ext 1031.

Breast Cancer awareness group for survivors and women who want to learn more. First Monday, 7pm.

Eastside Church of Christ (916 S Douglas), 732-0393.

Breast Cancer support group at the OU Breast Institute (825 NE10th), Suite 3500, third Thursday, noon1pm. Lunch provided; register 271-8001, ext 48592, or 271-8001 ext. 48527.

Amputeesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Next Step support group, second Tuesday 1-3pm. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donoghue Rehabilitation Institute (1122 NE 13th, room 252). OUPhysicians.com.

Parents of Children with Cancer support group, second Wednesday at noon (complimentary lunch).

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital (930 NE 13th). 943-8888.

Parents Helping Parents confidential meetings for parents of children who abuse drugs. First and third Tuesdays. Oklahoma Blood Institute in Edmond, 6428198, ParentsHelpingParents.info.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society-sponsored Family Support Group. First Thursday, 6pm, Integris Baptist Medical Center. 943-8888.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society-sponsored Parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Support Group. Second Wednesday, noon, The Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital at OU Medical Center, 271-5758.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society-sponsored Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Recognized for exceptional service

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what we want for Christmas!

Looking for fun family outings for the weekend?

Call for Early Bird Enrollment Savings!

Subscribe to MetroFamilyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s popular E-Update and receive a full list each week!

722-2379 www.GingersKindermusik.com

48

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

To get started, simply go to MetroFamilyMagazine.com/subscribe-to-e-update November 2008

Celebrating Ten Years!

There are as many support groups in the Metro as there are needs for them.

To include your group in our listing, please email details to Calendar@ MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

Come see why weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re the global leader in classes for kids.

Support Group. First and third Monday, 5pm, The Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital at OU Medical Center, 271-8001.

Baptist Medical Center, first Thursday, 6pm. 271-5072, OKCHopeLink.org.

Myeloma Support Group. Third Thursday, 6pm, 7th floor Conference room at the OU Medical Center, 271-6557.

6 â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society-sponsored SpanishSpeaking Group. First Tuesday, 6pm at Baptist Integris Southwest Medical Center, 636-7560; and first Wednesday, 5pm at the 7th floor Conference room at the OU Medical Center, 271-7930.

Health

Daily Yoga Classes (adult, teen, prenatal, meditation, and senior) for beginning and advanced students. $12 and up. 203-8927, 3rdStreetYogaStudio.com.

Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga. $8-$15 per class. 4743302 or MamasteYoga.com for locations and times.

Parenting Groups

Momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Got Connections Christian group for moms with young children (birth-5yrs). Chapel Hill United Methodist Church, OKC, 9:30-11am Tuesdays.

Nadinebryant@sbcglobal.net or 359-9251.

MOMS Club (Moms Offering Moms Support) activity groups meet in Edmond, OKC, Moore, Midwest/Del City, and Norman. Visit our online calendar for dates, times, and contact info. MOMSClub.org.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) support groups meet in Choctaw, Norman, Edmond, and OKC. Visit our online calendar for dates, times, and contact info.

Celebrate Recovery at Crossings Community Center, 6pm. Dinner, worship and share groups. 18 and up.

Childcare is offered. Free. 302-1293, CrossingsOKC.org

8 â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday

Drive-up flu and pneumonia shots at Integris Baptist Medical Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s east parking lot, 9am-1pm. $22 flu shot, $30 pneumonia shot, cash or check only, firstcome, first-serve for ages 9 and up. 949-3891.

Ask about ou r

$35 off New ts Enrollmen lies mi *New Fa Only

Special Holiday Unlimited Play Option

OKC/Edmond â&#x20AC;˘ Northpark Mall N.W. 122nd and May Avenue

405.755.3445

18 â&#x20AC;˘ Tuesday

My Child Wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Mind Me! workshop for adults at the Warr Acres Library. Participants will learn ways to help children cooperate. 2:30-4pm.

www.gymboreeclasses.com

22 â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday

The Lupus Support Group at the Midwest City Library is for those with lupus or with affected loved ones. 13pm; details, call Melissa Carter, 503-3764.

December 6 â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday

Baby Signs Workshop at Norman Gymboree, 10:30noon. $25 for materials. Reservations required. 3078454, GymboreeClasses.com normanok@gmail.com.

Check out MetroFamilyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full listing of events online at MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

Edmondâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mothers of Multiples, second Thursday at Edmond Hospital, Ambulatory Care Pavilion, 7pm (subject to change). 285-5208 and 315-0338, EdmondMoms.com.

Special Needs

Parents Fighting Autism third Monday of the month, 7pm. Olive Garden in Norman. Free. Location subject to change, contact ParentsFightingAutism@gmail.com.

OKC Area Stuttering Support Group for adults. Third Tuesday, 6:30-7:30pm. First United Methodist Church, 303 E Hurd, Edmond. okcssg@yahoo.com.

& arty ay p et! d u h ouq birt b a n k oo Bo o ball free

get a

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren support group for grandparents and other relatives raising children.

First and third Tuesday, 6pm, Trinity Church of the Nazarene. 634-4400 ext. 140.

CHADD ADD/ADHD support meeting, second Tuesday at 7pm. Deaconess Hospital (5501 N Portland), Spencer conference room. 722-1ADD, 419-4176, or CHADD.org.

Hope Link meetings for parents of special-needs children or children with undiagnosed disorders. Integris Celebrating Ten Years!

Your bouncin indoor play center

Bouncinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Bir thday Parties

Time for Holiday Painting!

Great Open Play

Late Paint Night

Memorable Family Nights

December 2nd & 9th Come see all our new ideas!

Awesome InďŹ&#x201A;atable s

Make sure to check our website or call us for our Holiday hours

. ,INCOLN "LVD %DMOND s

www.bouncincraze.com November 2008

Paint your own pottery studio / .BZ 0,$ t www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

49

Advertiser Index—November 2008 MetroFamily Magazine is brought to you each month by the following advertisers. Please use these advertisers and when you do, thank them for their support of Metro families!

Ardmore Festival of Lights.................................. 26 Beginnings with Loving Care.............................. 39 Best of Books .....................................................30 Bill Veazey’s Party Store ....................................50 Bob Moore Saturn .............................................. 29 Bouncin’ Craze ................................................... 49 Bright Smile Family Dentistry .............................52 Brookhaven Village ...............................................7 The Cathedral Christmasfest .................................7 Chickasha Festival of Light ................................ 16 Christmas Spectacular Radio City Music Hall .... 39 Clinton, OK ......................................................... 41 Club Z In-Home Tutoring ...................................... 8 Debbie Moore, MA, LPC.....................................45 Edmond, OK....................................................... 16 Elk City, OK ........................................................ 41 El Reno, OK ........................................................17 Extreme Animals ................................................ 38 Fine Arts Institute of Edmond ............................... 9 Forest Hill Christian Church ................................. 8 Fowler Honda-Norman .......................................35 Frontier City ........................................................40

Frontier Country Marketing Association ........ 21-23 Ginger’s Kindermusik ......................................... 48 Glamour Shots ................................................... 33 The Goddard School .......................................... 26 Great Plains Country Marketing Association ...... 41 Guitar 4 Kids....................................................... 48 Gymboree........................................................... 49 Harn Homestead ................................................ 21 Heritage Makers .................................................45 Hey Day Family Entertainment ...........................35 Housewarmers of Edmond................................. 18 Jimmy’s Egg ....................................................... 22 Jump Zone ...........................................................47 Kidoodles ........................................................... 48 Kumon Math and Reading ....................................7 Lawton, OK ........................................................ 41 Lil Dudes and Divas ........................................... 23 Little Caesar’s Pizza .............................................2 Lubbock, TX ........................................................37 Mad Science of Central Oklahoma ..................... 14 MetroFamily Exploring OK With Children............37 MetroFamily Parent University ............................. 3 MetroFamily Radio City Ticket Contest .............. 26 Metropolitan Library System.................................. 51 Missouri Military Academy .................................. 24 My Princess Parties ........................................... 49 National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum . 16 Norman, OK........................................................35 Nothing But Fun..................................................30 OCU Performing Arts Academy .......................... 15 OG & E ................................................................. 4 Oklahoma Center for Implant & Periodontics ..... 24 Oklahoma Children’s Theatre ..............................17

Oklahoma Heritage Museum .............................. 15 Oklahoma Railway Museum............................... 16 Orthopedic Associates ........................................ 14 OU Outreach ...................................................... 25 Paint’N Station ................................................... 49 Paul Brockhaus Jewelry ..................................... 23 Pickles & Ice Cream Maternity Apparel .............. 23 Poteet Theatre ....................................................30 Radio City Christmas Spectacular ..................... 19 Rainbow Fleet Child Care & Referral .................30 S Studio Salon & Day Spa ................................. 23 Sam Noble OK Museum of Natural History .........37 Seeking Sitters ................................................... 45 Sensational Kids................................................. 36 Sheraton Oklahoma City .................................... 28 Southern Hills Baptist Church ............................ 18 Southern Hills Baptist Church School of Fine Arts .............................................30 Sooner Theatre................................................... 35 Southern Hills Christian Church ......................... 22 SpringHill Suites - Marriott.................................. 41 St. John’s Military School ..................................... 8 Tamera Tigner Photography ............................... 45 Taylor Made Photography ..................................... 9 T. G. Farms-Pumpkin Patch.................................. 9 Trinity School ...................................................... 38 United Way ......................................................... 31 Unpluggits Play Studio ....................................... 15 Velocity Dance.....................................................47 Within Sight .......................................................... 9 YMCA ................................................................... 3 Yukon, OK - Christmas in the Park ......................17

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November 2008

Celebrating Ten Years!

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