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NOVEMBER 2010

Disaster Relief & Twitter Two local moms rally the community to help tornado victims

Tantrums, biting and whining, oh my!

Real world solutions you can use today

How you and your children can grow by giving back

T h e E s sent i a l Reso u rce fo r Cent ra l O k l a h o m a F a m i l i es

w w w. M et roFa m i l yM agaz i n e.comw w w. M et roFa m i l yM agaz i n e.comw w

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CR249 Keepsake The CR249 Keepsake allows you to take your old vinyls and convert them into mp3 files on your computer in minutes.

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November 2010

New logo

emphasizes family togetherness and fun

New& Improved Learn more

about what is NEW on page 4 metrofamilymagazine.com

What's Happening at MetroFamily

1

There's a lot of "NEW" going at MetroFamily, not the least of which is our NEW LOOK being introduced this issue on page 3.

We believe our new logo better reflects our emphasis on family fun, togetherness and connectivity in Central Oklahoma. Let us know what you think at metrofamilymagazine.com/new-logo. We will officially unveil the new logo on the front cover very soon.

2

We're happy to be settled into our NEW OFFICE. MetroFamily now offices at 725 NW 11th Street, Suite 204, OKC, OK 73103.

Come visit us in the Midtown area (near St Anthony's Hospital at 11th and Shartel). We also have a NEW phone number, 405-601-2081 and NEW FAX NUMBER, 405-455-7509.

3

You love contests and we love bringing them to you! Check out these great prizes: one of two family four-packs to see Shrek The Musical at the Civic Center on opening night, November 9 (hurry! deadline is Nov 2!); over $400 of prizes in our monthly giveaway (deadline November 18); one of three family four-packs to see Barney Live in Concert: Birthday Bash (coming to Cox Convention Center Dec 2-3; deadline November 20); and one of two family four-packs to see Riverdance (coming to Rose State Performing Arts Center January 20-23; contest runs November 18-December 11).

PLUS, show your family's enthusiasm for the new OKC Barons hockey team by entering a photo into the OKC Barons

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November 2010

Join Us

Follow Us

MetroFamily Fan of the Game Contest.

Your family could win tickets to an upcoming game and other perks (learn more on page 46). Enter all the contests TODAY at metrofamilymagazine.com/contests.

4

Stay tuned for our upcoming series of daily contests called “MetroFamily's 24 Days of December.” We'll be giving packages of great items EVERY SINGLE DAY from December 1-24. Find more info later this month at metrofamilymagazine.com/24-days-contest.

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MetroFamily’s December issue will feature dozens of ideas for holiday fun both locally and around the state. Ad space reservation deadline is November 11th. Call today!

405-601-2081 or email ads@metrofamilymagazine.com.

PS: Join our community! Get the best weekend family fun ideas in our weekly E-Update (metrofamilymagazine.com/ subscribe-to-e-update); like us at facebook.com/metrofamily; follow us at twitter.com/metrofamily; and follow our bloggers, including our newest blogger, Kristina Pressley who outlines her challenge to "get fab" after giving birth to her second baby (metrofamilymagazine. com/blogs).

Giving Thanks and Giving Back.

November 2010

36 Calendar

Dozens of events and activities for family fun and enrichment

6

Editor’s Note

22 Dear Teacher

28

Advice from education experts: dealing with underachievers and misbehaving first graders plus an explanation of your role in your child’s education

How two women, one warehouse, a Tweetup and hundreds of donations changed the face of disaster relief.

18 Exploring Oklahoma The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma

26 Family Finances

Your guide to charitable giving

16 © Lorraine Swanson | Dreamstime.com

Dear MetroFamily

8

Do you have a misbehaving little munchkin at home? Use our ageappropriate guide to behavior and discipline to address your issues.

Family Shorts

Community news and parenting resources

24 Oklahoma Reads

Book reviews for everyone, including titles about helping your community and giving back

46 Out & About Photo Board

32

© Stephaniefrey | Dreamstime.com

Avoid those holiday pounds that seem to always find you with this guide to prudent holiday snacking.

On the cover and above (left to right): Lori Ford and her daughter, Sierra, of Edmond and Carrie Corbin and her daughter, Bailey, of Oklahoma City. Lori and Carrie are two local moms who started a movement to provide resources to local residents in need. Learn more about them, their project and the Oklahoma spirit of giving on page 28.

Readers share their pumpkin patch photos. Also, meet the winner of the OKC Baron's MetroFamily Fan of the Game for November

30 The Alert Parent

Taming your child’s tendency for materialism

20 Your Healthy Family

Be inspired by Laynie's story and learn about blood donation

Cover Photography by Distinctive Images Photography • www.distinctiveimagesok.com

November 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

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Dear MetroFamily, Welcome to the November issue! We have a great issue for you this month, with lots of information about how your family can get involved in the community and give back to others. Giving a helping hand to those in need is a great way to show how truly thankful you are during this time of Thanksgiving and it can serve as a vital lesson for children.

Included are dozens of opportunities to get your family involved in giving back to the community, plus a profile of two dynamic local moms who made a huge impact on our community in the wake of last spring’s severe weather.

October is winding down as I write this, and what a month it has been! Allergies be darned, this is my favorite time of year to spend time outside. Autumn is my favorite season of all, with winter a close second, so unlike most people I know, I relish the changing of the seasons, pulling out sweaters and boots and jeans from the back of the closet.

Now, of course, being Oklahomans, we realize that even though the season has changed, it doesn’t mean the temperatures comply. When we went to the local pumpkin patch, the thermometer was hovering around 80 degrees! I couldn’t bear the idea of shorts in October, so I sweated it out in jeans, but my jacket, although lightweight, was short-lived.

You may notice some changes underfoot here at MetroFamily, starting with this page. We are always open to change that gives us an opportunity to connect more closely with you, our readers. And we always want your feedback, so please feel free to email me anytime at editor@metrofamilymagazine. com with your thoughts, comments and ideas.

And if you want to hear more from me, visit my blog on our website (metrofamilymagazine.com/mari); I’ll be posting regularly about my own adventures in life, love and parenting. Stop by, read a bit and don’t forget to leave a comment!

Until next time.

Cheers!

Pictures from October 2010 at the Regatta Festival (from top): My children, Spencer and Lauren, at the pumpkin patch; the kids holding a snake in the Kid's Area; family picture; and me with our publisher Sarah Taylor.

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com November 2010

Info And Questions: 405-601-2081 (NEW) 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 Sales Athena Delce Dana Price Amy Lou Tuzicka Ads@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Office and Distribution Manager Kathy Alberty Kathy@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Assistant Editor & Calendar Brooke Barnett Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Special Projects Assistant Terri Fields Editorial Assistant Elizabeth Harvey Contributing Writers Brooke Barnett, Marge Eberts, Allyn Evans, Shannon Fields, Peggy Gisler, Sandra Gordon, Jennifery Gregory, Karen Mitchell, Sue Lynn Sasser, Julie Steed 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. 725 NW 11th • Oklahoma City, OK 73103 Fax: (405) 445-7509 E-mail: Info@MetroFamilyMagazine.com ©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2010, All Rights Reserved.

Volume 13, Number 11

r u o y e r i p Let us ins r a e Y w e N e h t n i d l chi registration!* e e r f t e g & w o Enroll n

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La Petite Academy速 has been inspiring children for over 40 years. Our high quality early education programs are individually designed for children 6 weeks to 12 years*.

Let us start inspiring your child today.

Call 877-217-9537

to locate a school near you and to schedule a visit. *Programs and hours of operation vary by school. See school for details. Offer is for free registration for new enrollees only. Offer is valid on a space-available basis for all age groups. Offer is not redeemable or refundable for cash. Offer available only to those accounts when full tuition is paid in advance. Limit one coupon per child. One time use. Family must enroll for a minimum of three half-days per week and must not have been previously enrolled at a Learning Care Group school. Learning Care Group is not responsible for and cannot replace or redeem lost, stolen, destroyed or expired coupons. Offer not valid for Learning Care Group associates or their immediate families. Offer valid at participating locations and subject to availability. Offer does not guarantee enrollment. Offer expires March 31, 2011. Code: WE11 FreeReg

LPA WE11 Metro Family 7.25x4.75 ad.indd 1

November 2010

10/4/2010 1:58:41 PM 7 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

,

Operation Start a Movement the box of the Family Reindeer On Edition BoomBoom! Cards, it

Operation Reindeer will accept donations used to fill Christmas stockings for chronically mentally ill persons in central Oklahoma through December 1.

Donations may be delivered to the Mental Health Association of Central Oklahoma (2800 NW 36th, Suite 104, OKC), Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm. Suggested donations include: • Personal grooming items. Dental care, bath products, shaving needs, haircare supplies and accessories.

• Cold weather items. Gloves, hats, scarves, lip balm, cough drops, socks, warm clothing.

• Books and games. Decks of cards, puzzle books, paperback books, pocket calendars, pens, pencils and notepads.

• Treats. Costume jewelry, coin purses, makeup, perfume.

• Snacks. Sugar-free gum, individual snack packs of crackers, cookies or nuts, fast food gift cards or packets of instant soup.

• Cash. Tax-deductible donations are also accepted.

Call 405-943-3700 or visit mentalhealthok.org to learn more.

Question of the Month What is your favorite coldweather outdoor activity?

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

Deadline to enter is Thursday, November 18.

Your comments may also be used in a future issue of MetroFamily Magazine or on our website.

The full contents of the prize package are listed with the entry form. A winner will be drawn at random and notified by phone or email. The winner agrees to pick up items from the MetroFamily office, 725 NW 11th, Oklahoma City.

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states that the package contains “Revolutionary acts for families to create & inspire kindness.” But how?

BoomBoom! Cards includes 26 cards, each with a unique tracking number and an act of kindness to perform (such as “Go out of your way to get something for someone,” or “Gather all your used books and donate them to a school or your local library.”

Choose a card and perform the task. Then, visit the Command Central website to register the card and the action taken. Pass the card on for someone else to perform the kind act. The tracking number on the card makes it easy to trace the positive impact of the card as it spreads from person to person.

The kit also contains discussion cards, stickers, sticky notes and a carrying sack. Blank cards are also included so your family can create personalized BoomBoom! Cards.

These cards provide a tangible way for your family to see how small acts can make a big difference. Visit boomboomcards.com to learn more.

How Does Your Family Give Back?

4% We knew that Oklahomans have a giving spirit, and our readers proved that to be true with the answers we received for our question this month.

We received nearly 350 entries, and the overwhelming majority of those who responded said that they get involved locally, either with their church or with a local charitable organization.

Mandy B. of Edmond said, “We buy extra school supplies and donate them to a local charity. Even our four and six year olds were helpful in stuffing backpacks.”

8%

5%

10%

41% 32%

■ 139 We donate money or goods to local organizations ■ 109 We volunteer or donate at our church.

■ 35 We are active in our community ■ 26 We donate money or goods to national organizations.

■ 17 Other ■ 14 We spend time working at charities.

Linda C. of Norman has taught her son to pay it forward. “This year for my son’s 10th birthday, we asked that instead of gifts, guests who wished to do so could bring a donation of feed for the animals at Wildcare in Noble. We received about 80 pounds of bird, deer and rabbit chow. My son was proud of his gift.”

Karen P. works with animal charities. “I have my children go to the shelter during open days to pet and walk the animals. We also donate pet products to no kill shelters.”

Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/November-2010 to be inspired by all of the responses from our readers.

November 2010

Problem-Solving Character Corner: Gratefulness Being grateful means that you use your words and actions to let others know how they have Products positively impacted your life. The great reward of gratefulness is friendship. Genuine love When we hear about new or helpful products, we like to let our readers know! Here are a few of the interesting items we’ve recently found. Visit the product website for a list of local retailers.

Problem:

Teaching your child manners is a tricky job.

Solution:

Blunders ($24.95) is a game that makes learning ettiquette fun for ages 5 and up. (blundersmania.com)

Problem:

You want an effective and safe cough medicine for your little one.

Solution:

Zarbees ($9.99) cough syrup uses all natural ingredients (including honey) to sooth the cough of children ages 5-12. (zarbees.com)

is built on a mutual understanding of our need and appreciation of others.

To promote gratefulness in your home: • Help family members by doing small tasks for them. Remember to say “thank you” when your family members do the same for you.

• Parents can tell their children that they believe in them and are happy to have them in their lives.

• Remind family members that they are special and loved by remembering and planning for birthdays.

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

I will: ... show my parents and teachers that I appreciate them. ... write “thank you” notes. ... take care of my things. ... be content with what I have. ... count my blessings rather than my burdens.

Contact Character First! for more character-building resources.

To learn more, call 405-815-0001 or visit characterfirst.com.

Gratitude is the memory of the heart. ~ Jean Baptiste Massieu

Problem:

Protecting Your Baby From SIDS

Solution:

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is a leading cause of infant death in Oklahoma.

One goal of the statewide infant and child health initiative, Preparing for a Lifetime, It’s Everyone’s Responsibility, is to help reduce infant mortality by focusing on SIDS awareness and other sleep-related deaths.

Afraid of hitting the wall when parking in the garage?

Parking Targets ($10.99 each) can be stuck to your garage floor to provide a sturdy and reliable parking guide. (ipiproducts.com)

Problem:

It should be easier to brush a baby’s teeth!

Solution:

Tooth Tissues ($6.99/30) easily and effectively clean your baby’s teeth.

For children ages 0-2. (ipiproducts.com)

Problem:

You need music to soothe your tiny beast.

Solution:

Sweet Songs CD ($15) is a collection of lullabys by Austin, TX artists that also benefits the Mother’s Milk Bank of Austin. (austinsweetsongs.com)

Problem:

You need reading inspiration.

Solution:

Sylvan Dell Publishing is celebrating National Family Literacy Month by providing their entire catalog of eBooks for free to families through the month. Visit sylvandellpublishing.com to learn more about the free books; visit famlit.org to learn more about Family Literacy Month.

“Many parents and caregivers do not understand the risks that unsafe sleep environments pose for infants,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. Terry Cline.

The OSDH encourages parents to follow these American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines for a safe sleep environment for their infants: • Always place your baby on his or her back to sleep at nighttime and naptime. Tell everyone caring for your baby to do the same.

• Place your baby in his or her own separate sleep area in the same room with caregiver(s).

• Keep your baby’s sleep area free from secondhand smoke.

• Use a safety approved crib or bassinet with a firm mattress and tight fitting sheet.

• Keep your baby’s sleep space free of toys and other soft bedding, including fluffy blankets, comforters, pillows, stuffed animals, bumper pads, and wedges.

• Do not overheat or overdress your baby. Room temperature should be comfortable for a lightly clothed adult.

• Remember, adult beds, sofas, and chairs are not appropriate for sleeping babies and can greatly increase the risk of SIDS, suffocation and accidental infant deaths.

For more information about safe sleep, contact the OSDH Maternal and Child Health Service at 405-271-4480 or visit “Preparing for a Lifetime, It’s Everyone’s Responsibility” at iio.health.ok.gov.

November 2010

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Creativity World Forum The eyes of the world will be on Oklahoma City on November 15-17 when the Creativity World Forum comes to town. Oklahoma is the only District of Creativity in North America and Oklahoma City is the first to host this conference on the continent.

Reach Out and Read Oklahoma Reach Out And Read (ROR) was developed by pediatricians and early childhood educators to make literacy a part of routine pediatric care so that children enter school ready to learn.

The forum features a wide range of speakers presenting discussions and lessons on applying creativity and innovation in the fields of education, culture and commerce.

Registration will be held Monday and breakout sessions will be held Tuesday and Wednesday. Scheduled sessions include: • Creative Design & Art Spaces Fueling Urban Growth • Public Policy & Creativity • Growing the Creative Mind • Science & Technology Creating Entrepreneurial Frontiers • Teaching the World How to Innovate Scheduled speakers include local and international innovators in creativity, including: Scott Booker, Manager of the three-time Grammy Award winning Flaming Lips and CEO of the Academy of Contemporary Music at University of Central Oklahoma; Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett; Washington Menezes Fajardo, Secretary of Culture–City of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; and Sir Ken Robinson, widely-renowned creativity expert.

Interested persons can follow the conference on the Online Creativity Channel (oklavision.tv), presented by the Chickasaw Nation.

Research indicates that exposure to books and reading in the first years of life increases the probability of healthy child development and school success.

According to Steve Davis, State Director of Reach Out and Read Oklahoma, “Fourteen published, peerreviewed studies clearly demostrate that Reach Out and Read works. Doctors and nurses going beyond traditional medical care and providing parents with information on how to read to their children at each developmental stage, and giving books at well-child visits, is clearly breaking chains of poverty. No other early literacy intervention has this kind of evidence base or impact.”

To learn more about the program, including literacy resources for parents, or to find information on participating in the program, visit reachoutandread.org.

For more information, including registration details, visit stateofcreativity.com.

How To Raise A Confident Child “I’m stupid, I can’t do this!” yells your 6-year-old as he attempts to tie his shoes.

Tears roll down his face as he kicks the untied shoe off of his foot and across the room. Is this an isolated incident or a sign that a child’s self-confidence could be lacking? According to Ed Christophersen, PhD, a clinical psychologist at Children’s Mercy Hospital and Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, “The classic sign that a child has low self-esteem is self deprecating remarks.” As a parent, you are in the perfect position to give your child a boost in confidence and help her grow into a selfassured adult.

Choose Your Words Carefully While berating your child for doing a poor job may seem like an obvious esteembreaker, being overly positive may be equally damaging. If your child already feels miserable for her poor performance on a spelling test, she will see right through you when you try to make her feel better with words. Dr. Christophersen explained, “You don’t raise self-esteem with your mouth.

A child needs to feel that they are doing 10

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well.” A better strategy would be to practice spelling with your child, as many times as needed, so that they will begin to excel at test time and gain confidence in their abilities.

Sample Activities Together Fostering self-esteem requires an investment of time for both parents and children. “There is no short cut to self-esteem,” explained Dr. Christophersen, “We must do things with our kids over and over and over again until they find something they enjoy.” If your son is bummed that he didn’t score a soccer goal all season, allow him to try baseball next time.

Or maybe sports aren’t his thing at all, but he enjoys time at the zoo or is thrilled with the dinosaur fossils at the museum. Participate, practice and go along for the ride while he discovers his areas of interest and the activities in which he excels.

Leave Your Comfort Zone Stepping out of your comfort zone and into your child’s is another way to help your kid grow confidence. When your daughter asks to go to the skating rink, strap on a pair of skates and join her. Never mind the fact that November 2010

Your Child May Have Low Self– Esteem If: • He frequently says, “I am stupid!”

• She gets frustrated easily.

• He avoids new challenges.

• She often says, “I can’t.”

• He seems withdrawn or depressed. you haven’t been to the roller rink since 8th grade, your daughter will benefit from being better at an activity than you are. Does your son excel at video games? Ask him to let you play along, especially if gaming isn’t your thing, allowing him to help you learn the ins-and-outs of his favorite game. “Kids like to do things that mom and dad don’t do so well,” explained Dr. Christophersen.

A child’s self-esteem must be nurtured and cultivated. Providing the proper atmosphere can allow your child’s confidence to grow and flourish. If you think your child is suffering from low self-esteem, you have the tools required to take action and help your child grow into a confident individual.

Julie Steed is a freelance writer who enjoys writing about parenting and her adventures as a military spouse.

You provide the party; we’ll make the celebration

Shop and Enjoy

shopping, dining, services, fitness and more!

Sleigh Day & Santa

Saturday, December 11th

Imagine this: thick, moist cake, layered with some of the richest, creamiest ice cream in the world, and your favorite mix-ins, all wrapped in fluffy white frosting or rich fudge ganache.

A Cake for Any Occasion • Signature Cakes • Birthday Cakes • Petite Cakes • Cupcakes Cold Stone Catering: Let your guests indulge in ice cream by inviting Cold Stone Creamery to your next event! We can bring the party to you with a sundae bar or hand dipped floats.

Our ice cream is at made fresh daily this location!

1:00 - 4:00 pm

Horse drawn sleigh rides, photos with Santa, and treats!

Activities are FREE and fun for the entire family!

1197 E. 2nd Street • Edmond • 330-5878 www.coldstonecreamery.com

A Norman Tradition

Product shown is Chocolate Chipper. ©2007 Cold Stone Creamery, Inc. All rights reserved. www.coldstonecreamery.com

NW 36th & Robinson, Norman • Just west of I-35 on Robinson

University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center Department of Pediatrics

Healthy Newborns Needed for Research Study

• An infant formula study is being conducted to observe how babies respond to, and tolerate, a new formula. All study formulas provide complete nutrition for babies from birth to 12 months of age.

• Babies must be between the ages of 11 and 17 days old.

• Babies that are currently formula-fed will be randomized (you are put in a group by chance) to either the control or test formula.

• Babies will be seen for 5 visits (2 weeks, 1, 2, 3, and 4 months old).

• Compensation for time and travel will be given.

• All formula will be provided at no cost to the participant.

If you are interested in having your child participate, please contact Brittney Criswell at (405) 271-8001 ext. 43034 or email Babypeas@ouhsc.edu

IRB# 15247 The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution.

November 2010

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Getting KindergartenReady for Next Year When the time comes, will your young child be ready for kindergarten? Approximately 30 percent of Oklahoma’s kindergarten students are not performing at grade level, but parents can play a large role in preparing their children for scholastic success.

Fun Family Activities for Thanksgiving

Smart Start Central Oklahoma provides a unique school readiness program designed to help parents put their children on a path to success during the first five years of life. Smart Start provides Early Birds classes, a school readiness program for parents who live within the Oklahoma City Public Schools, Putnam City Public Schools, Mid-Del Public Schools and the Western Heights School districts.

by Jennifer Gregory

After Thanksgiving dinner, many families head to the living room to relax and watch football games on television. Since quality time with friends and family can be hard to find these days, consider spending the time after dinner creating a new family tradition and making memories.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

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Have a Game Night. When you invite guests this year, ask them to bring their favorite board game. After dinner is cleaned up, pull out the games and help everyone find a game to play.

Head Outdoors. Divide up your guests into teams, clearly communicate the rules and then have fun playing a friendly game of football together, or play a game like hide-and-seek or capture the flag. If you are feeling adventurous, head to a nearby park or explore local hiking trails together. Tell your guests when you invite them so they are prepared for outdoor fun.

Create a Family Scrapbook. Have each family member bring a few of their favorite pictures. Provide supplies (paper, gluesticks, scissors) and have each person create a scrapbook page. When everyone is finished, add the pages to an album. Be sure to include the date and artist on each scrapbook page. Next year, create more scrapbook pages and add to the album each year.

Write Thankful Letters. Have each guest think of one person that they are especially thankful for this year. Hand out pens and paper and encourage everyone to write the person a letter telling them why they are special. Include preschoolers by having them dictate the letter to a helper. When each person is done, give them an envelope for their letter and a stamp.

Decorate for the Holidays. Include your guests in decorating for the winter holidays, or make holiday decorations together after dinner.

Some simple ideas include paper chains, salt dough ornaments and bead ornaments. When coming up with a project, be sure to include young children who might want to participate and provide alternate crafts if you have guests who celebrate winter holidays other than Christmas.

Volunteer Together. Consider heading to a soup kitchen or food shelter together as a family to help serve meals to other people. Organize your own food drive by asking each guest to bring canned food. After dinner, take a field trip to the food pantry to deliver the food.

Have a Talent Show. Kids and grownups can take turns performing talents, such as quoting Shakespeare, singing and playing the violin.

Award a trophy for the best performance. When you invite guests to your Thanksgiving dinner, be sure to let them know ahead of time about the talent show. Encourage everyone, including children, to share their talents. Remind everyone to bring any props or costumes they will need for their performance.

Whatever you do with this down time on Thanksgiving, be sure that you spend time with your family and friends. In addition to having a good time together, you may find yourself starting traditions that everyone looks forward to throughout the year.

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November 2010

Early Birds is a family-based education program focused on the development of early reading, math and social skills. The program is a series of 90-minute classes that teach developmental skills to best prepare children for school. The classes provide information and free resources, including educational toys and books to stimulate their child’s development and build the skills they need to be successful in a classroom setting. In addition to a strong emphasis on social and emotional development, class topics include prenatal instruction, discipline and community resources available to parents. Child care is available.

Smart Start Central Oklahoma is a grassroots initiative that supports families in raising children who are safe, healthy and ready to succeed. Smart Start collaborates with local service providers to provide existing programs and resources that focus on early childhood education and supporting families who want to give their children a good start in life. For more information about Early Birds, to learn about the five developmental areas for school readiness and to see how your child does on a school readiness checklist, visit smartstartcentraloklahoma.org.

Character Banquet The Character Council of Central Oklahoma (CCCO) hosts its 5th annual Character Council Banquet on Thursday, November 11, from 6:30-8:30pm at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. The theme of the banquet is “Oklahoma Rises in Character.” At the banquet, individuals and businesses from seven different community sectors, including Business, Family, Faith, Education, Government, Communications/Media, and Law Enforcement, will be honored for showing exemplary character in the community.

The banquet will also feature the duo speaker team Fred and Anna Kendall, founders of 7 Life Languages and developers of Kendall’s Life Languages Profile, both of which have been used in all seven continents and have been featured on national and international television broadcasts. A special guest, Miss Oklahoma 2010, Emoly West of Edmond will share about her platform of the importance of character and leadership.

The event is open to the public; however, pre-registration is required.

Tickets are $35 per person, and sponsorships are available. All proceeds from the banquet support the year-round activities of CCCO. For more information on purchasing tickets, contact Mike Jestes at 405-787-7744 or email characterokc@gmail.com.

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Seeds of Hope Banquet Adventure Guides to Benefit Whiz Kids Program Begins at the Focusing on first through eighth grade students who live in areas of YMCA Oklahoma City’s highest drop-out rates and lowest socioeconomic levels, City Care’s Whiz Kids uses a proactive and preventative approach to target inner-city schools and students who are reading below grade level and could benefit most from a oneon-one relationship with a caring adult. A faith-based, non-profit organization, Whiz Kids will serve approximately 900 students from 26 urban schools in partnership with 54 churches and over 1,000 volunteers during the 2010-11 school year.

On November 30, 2010, Whiz Kids will host its sixth annual Seeds of Hope banquet at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. The event will feature two keynote speakers sharing their personal experiences about overcoming everyday challenges. The first speaker, Collins Tuohy, is the adoptive sister of Michael Oher, subject of the blockbuster movie, “The Blind Side.” She will be sharing her own personal experience of taking action and using her resources to help a stranger in a time of need. Also speaking will be Coach Barry Switzer, nationally renowned for being one of only two coaches to ever win a collegiate national championship and Super Bowl. He will be sharing his personal story of overcoming hardships and the difference adult mentors can make by supporting children who face everyday challenges.

“We are delighted to have two such dynamic speakers who have personally benefited from providing or receiving mentorship and education-based support,” said Masie Bross, Whiz Kids Executive Director. “Our goal in inviting these speakers is to share the prevalence of illiteracy and poverty issues in Oklahoma. We hope that with enough support, Whiz Kids will be able to provide every student in the program with a similar inspirational story to tell.”

Proceeds from the event will support Whiz Kids’ existing 26 tutoring sites and allow continued expansion of programming.

Tickets are $100 and can be purchased by calling 405-602-2815 or online at whizkidsok.org.

KOKF is now 91online.com KOKF 91FM (91) was a revolutionary Contemporary Christian Music station that launched in 1985 in Oklahoma City, and for 20 years, the station influenced both local and national Christian radio and music ministry. 91 played a diverse selection of music including rap, pop, techno and metal, reaching listeners that churches may not have been able to reach.

According to founder Brandon Rahbar, the vision of 91 was “Sowing the seeds of life into young hearts and alternative lifestyles,” and the station did this until ownership changed hands in May 2006.

The dream of 91 continued in the for the staff and listeners and now, four years later, 91 begins again online for a local, national and international audience as an online radio station.

According to Eva Hamlin, vice-president, “91Online invites listeners both past and present to partake of powerful music that will be everything from edgy to inspirational. We will also offer specialty programming designed to challenge, encourage and influence both Christian and secular culture.”

Interested persons can now find the station at 91online.com.

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com November 2010

“Serving families has always been at the heart of the Y,” said Zena Tipton, youth & family director for the North Side YMCA. “We have a fundamental desire to provide opportunities for every family to build stronger bonds, achieve greater work-life balance and become more engaged in their communities. The Adventure Guides is a unique program that does just that for our families.”

Adventure Guides is open to dads and their children, ages 5-12.

Participants join a group of six to 10 father-child pairs from the same school, neighborhood, church or other organization. The groups participate in seasonal camping trips to YMCA Camp Classen in Davis, OK, and other events throughout the year.

The program fosters leadership, problem-solving skills, group-work skills and a sense of commitment to a larger community. The direction and inspiration for Adventure Guide activities are guided by the program’s compass points, which include family, nature, community and fun.

For more information about the Adventure Guide program, contact Shane Pratt at 405-290-5091 or spratt@ymcaokc.org.

OKC’s Uptown Kids Shoppers looking for the newest fashion-forward clothing for kids have a new haven in Oklahoma City’s Classen Curve area. Uptown Kids, located at 5840 N. Classen Boulevard, showcases upscale kids clothing, shoes, accessories and more in a modern atmosphere. “Our ultimate goal is to provide guests with a shopping adventure,” says owner Carolyn Goldman. “We want to go above and beyond their expectations.”

Drawing on more than 12 years of retail experience, Goldman says she understands the importance of customer loyalty, service, and satisfaction. In addition to carrying nearly 40 lines of boys, girls and baby clothing, Uptown Kids also offers an ongoing calendar of free events for the public. Regularly scheduled events include story times, trunk shows, fashion shows and a concert series. Upcoming events include: • My Vintage Baby Trunk Show, Thursday, November 4, 4:00-7:00pm.

• Children’s Holiday Clothing Fashion Show, Saturday, November 6, 7:00pm.

• Saturday Story Times from 10:30-11:30am on November 13 (featuring a special appearance by Princess Belle), on November 20th and December 11 (featuring a character storyteller) and a special holiday-themed story time on December 18.

• Concert performances by the Sugar Free Allstars (Saturday, December 4, 10:30am) and Mr. Stinky Feet (Saturday, January 8).

Uptown Kids is open Monday-Saturday from 10:00am-7:00pm. For more information, call 405-418-8881 or visit uptownkidsstyle.com.

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Pick Your Battles

It’s one thing if your toddler has a kicking, screaming tantrum in the supermarket, which is actually on target developmentally, as embarrassing as it can be for you. But what if she’s still at it when she’s three, four or even five? As kids get older, we expect more from them, and rightly so. But it can be tough to know what’s OK because it’s “just a stage” and what’s no longer age-appropriate.

Kids don’t necessarily develop on a strict timetable. “Age gives you a general idea of when you can expect normal developmental milestones like being able to use your words instead of having a tantrum. But the timing can also depend on your child’s temperament, how much practice she’s had with the skill you’d like her to have and how you handle daily opportunities to develop it,” says Marcy Guddemi, Ph.D., executive director of the Gesell Institute of Human Development, in New Haven, Connecticut. The good news is that with a little insight and encouragement, you can help your child move to the next level. Use this guide to decipher when certain “bad” behavior is on track, when to expect your child to age out of it and what you can do to speed the process along when she’s ready.

Biting Babies: It’s very common for teething infants to nip. In fact, they’re prone to bite everything, which can provide information about the world like, “If I bite Mommy, she screams.” Still, start training your baby now not to bite you or anyone else. If she chomps down when you’re breastfeeding, remove her from your breast and say firmly: “No biting,” and turn away from her. Withdrawing your attention plus the tone of your voice sends the clear message that biting isn’t acceptable.

Toddlers: Even if you taught your baby not to bite, she still might try it now. “Toddlers sometimes bite to communicate their frustration,” says Peter L. Stavinoha, Ph.D., director of neuropsychology at Children’s Medical Center of Dallas. That’s because they don’t have the complex language skills yet to ask for what they want, such as the Legos a friend is playing with. If your toddler bites, state firmly: “No biting. Biting hurts,” then take the toy away or whatever he snatched. “Comfort the bitten child and say things you want your child to hear, such as: ‘You don’t like being bitten because biting hurts and we don’t bite our friends,’” says Guddemi. Toddlers are too young to understand the pain somebody else feels but focusing on the 16

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November 2010

bitten child and your tone of voice will help them learn that biting doesn’t work.

Preschoolers: By now, biting shouldn’t be an issue because preschoolers can ask for what they want. But they still might bite on impulse as a fast way to get something. If you’ve got a biter, remind her before play dates and preschool that even if she gets mad, biting isn’t allowed. Keep your radar on when she’s around others so you can jump in before a situation escalates. When things go well, be your child’s cheerleader: “That’s great that you didn’t bite. I’m so proud of you. Keep up the good work.” If your child bites anyway, remind her to use her words instead of biting, give her a time-out (for double her age in minutes) and comfort the bitten child. It’s embarrassing when your child bites. But not freaking out, stating the rules and delivering a consequence can help put a stop to it.

Tantrums in public Toddlers: Meltdowns are inevitable for kids up to age two because they can’t yet say, “I’m frustrated because you won’t buy fruit rollups for me,” so they make their point by throwing a fit. However, they’re not too young to learn that tantrums won’t get them what they want. Don’t reinforce them by giving in to his demands just so he’ll stop. Instead, stand firm: “No, we’re not getting that today,” and turn away, start humming to yourself or read the fine print on the cereal box at the supermarket, whatever you can to send the message that you’re not going to engage. “If your child doesn’t get your attention, his tantrum will stop, but you have to have more endurance then he does,” says Adiaha Spinks-Franklin, M.D., a pediatrician at Texas Children’s Hospital, in Houston. If he doesn’t get over it, leave the store or wherever you are and remind him: “Tell Mommy what you want. Don’t kick and scream.” He may not be able to do that yet, but he’ll get the concept. Being tired or hungry can trigger meltdowns, too, so try not to shop with your toddler around nap and meal time.

Preschoolers: While your child is developmentally capable of telling five, they still tend to be possessive with their favorite toys. You can help your child practice by showing him how to take turns with toys you how he’s feeling, he may still pitch a fit—especially if you’ve (try using a timer to emphasize that concept). It’s also fine to put given into them before. To work tantrums out of his repertoire, be away certain special things before friends come over. To encourage clear about your expectations before going out. “We’re going to buy empathy, point out how nice it makes others—and even himself—feel eggs and milk today, not cookies.” In the store, recognize it when when he does share. he’s behaving well: “I love the way you’re helping me put things in the cart. You’re doing such a great job.” Then reward it: “Since you School-age kids: By kindergarten, kids can share well. If your child were such a good helper in the store, we’re going to play Candy Land isn’t there yet, help him practice by inviting friends over who have when we get home.” If a meltdown breaks mastered the art of sharing so he can out anyway, help him learn to say how learn from them. Continue to talk about he’s feeling by labeling the emotion, why sharing is a good and kind thing to such as: “I can see that you’re frustrated do. Still, don’t expect him to have to share because you want a cookie, but it’s not special toys, even with siblings. It’s fine if on our list today.”

“All behavior is some toys are private property. communication and the School-age kids: Tantrums are rare by now, so if your child has one, he may be older kids get, the more Throwing food having a tough time expressing complex complex the meaning of Babies: Throwing food helps your baby feelings like jealousy or feeling left out. learn cause and effect—if she throws “You should also ask yourself whether a tantrum can be,” food from her high chair, it falls down you’ve babied this child more than the and you’ll pick it up. Instead of getting others or been inconsistent with your —Dr. Spinks-Franklin exasperated, play along for another expectations,” says Dr. Spinks-Franklin. If round or two. When you’ve had enough, you’re still baffled about why a tantrum say something like: “That was fun, but broke out, ask him to explain it after Mommy isn’t going to play anymore,” then things calm down. If he doesn’t know, dig stop gathering up tossed Cheerios in front deeper. It could be a sign that he needs of her. more hugs or one-on-one time with you, for example. “All behavior is communication and the older kids get, the more complex Toddlers: Your child is old enough to understand that flinging food the meaning of a tantrum can be,” Dr. Spinks-Franklin says. isn’t okay, but she may still do it when she’s bored or wants attention.

To end the antics, tell her, “Food is for eating and it belongs on your Whining plate.” Stay calm. “A huge reaction from you will only reinforce the bad behavior,” says Guddemi. If your toddler keeps it up, end the Toddlers: Toddlers whine because they want attention and they’ve meal.

She can finish eating later, once she’s calmed down. learned that using an annoying voice will get it. Don’t give in. Show her the difference between a whine and a normal tone. The next time she whines, say, “I don’t listen to that voice. Please ask me nicely.”

Preschoolers: If your preschooler whines to get what she wants, you’ve probably been caving a little too often. To reverse course, tell her you won’t listen to her unless she uses a big-girl voice. “The more kids whine, the less you should engage with them,” say David J. Schonfeld, M.D., director of the division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. If the whining continues, make eye contact and warn her that you’ll need to leave the store (or wherever you are) if she keeps it up, then leave if you have to. Or, if what your child is asking for is okay—say, you’re in the supermarket and she’s whining for ice cream, you might say: “Can you say, ‘Can I please pick out some ice cream?’” If she delivers, let her pick out the ice cream. Also, reward and reinforce good behavior by telling her how much you appreciate the fact that she stopped whining or asked nicely for something.

School-age kids: Not to point fingers, but if your school-age child is a whiner, you’re to blame. It’s time to be brutal: When the whining begins, flat out ignore it. Refuse to listen. Walk away. When she starts to talk in a normal tone of voice, show her the attention she’s after with enthusiasm.

Not sharing

Preschoolers: Thankfully, by the time your child is three, she won’t be tossing food on the floor to get your attention or to indicate her displeasure with what you’re serving. She’ll likely use her words to level any complaints about the meal.

School-age kids: Food fights can erupt when kids get a little too rowdy with their friends. Step in immediately if one breaks out at home. You don’t want your kids going all Animal House in the school lunchroom.

Squirming Toddlers: Unless something engages your child’s interest, expect him to be fidgety. Antsiness comes with the developmental territory.

Try to work around it. For example, go to a kid-friendly restaurant early when it’s less busy (11:30am for lunch and 5:00pm for dinner), and take along toys and crayons to keep your child engaged.

Preschoolers: Kids this age should be able to sit contentedly for chunks of time, although how long depends on your child’s temperament. If you have a high-energy kid, that might be just 15 minutes. It’s still too soon to expect him to endure grown-up events, however, like lengthy religious services or three-course restaurant dinners. When attendance is mandatory, be sure to have a stash of fun stuff to keep him busy.

Toddlers: Little kids are too egocentric to understand the give-andtake sharing involves. You can encourage your child to “take turns,” but don’t expect him to willingly give his toys to his siblings or other kids on play dates. In his mind, sharing means, “I had a toy and it’s gone forever.” At playdates, opt for activities that are easy to do together—dancing, coloring, building with blocks—to short-circuit any tussling.

School-age kids: By now, children should be able to sit still for longer stretches at home and at school without needing constant attention. If your child can’t, consider that your cue to help him practice at home with activities such as crafts and games. If you’re concerned about your child’s restlessness, talk to your pediatrician.

Preschoolers: Preschoolers are less self-centered than they were a year or two ago, but they’re still impulsive and up to about age

Sandra Gordon is the mom of two and the author of Consumer Reports Best Baby Products.

November 2010

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

17

Exploring Oklahoma Volunteering at the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma

A

n out-of-work father worries each night about how to feed his family of four. A single mother spends most of her paycheck on childcare with barely enough left to feed her toddlers. The school’s morning breakfast provides the only meal for a second-grader and his first-grade brother.

‘Tis the season to fill our tummies with a bountiful harvest and give thanks for our blessings. For most of us, this is a joyous, relaxing time with family. Unfortunately, affording food is a daily struggle for many.

Thankfully, charities throughout Oklahoma fill this basic human need for food as families work to get back on their feet. Your family can help!

The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma and its partner agencies require thousands of volunteer man-hours to provide food to those Oklahomans in need of assistance. If you’ve been looking for a way to make a difference and get your family involved, consider volunteering with the Regional Food Bank or one of its 460 partner agencies.

“We provide lots of opportunities for family volunteerism,” says Jamie Treadaway, volunteer coordinator. The Food Bank has several programs, all of which rely on volunteers. For example, the Food for Kids program provides backpacks filled with food on weekends and holidays for chronically hungry children. The Senior Mobile Pantries program delivers food on site to seniors living in nine Oklahoma City Housing Authority locations.

Treadaway explains that most volunteering is done at their Oklahoma City distribution site, centrally located just north of Will Rogers Airport. Activities may include sorting, boxing, weighing, bagging and tagging products; filling backpacks for distribution; stuffing mailings or even cleaning. “We can’t

This time of year should be about celebrating the bountiful harvest, but for many Oklahoma families, even a simple basket of groceries may be out of reach due to financial constraints. Charities throughout Oklahoma are there to help those families fill this basic human need as families work to get back on their feet, and your family can help.

guarantee exactly what our volunteers will be doing,” Treadaway says, “but they will be working directly to serve.”

The Regional Food Bank’s volunteer hours are flexible. Individuals are welcome weekdays and Saturday between 9:00am-noon and 1:00-4:00pm. Groups of five or more are urged to call for an appointment. Group opportunities are provided Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings.

A new Thursday evening individual volunteer opportunity called the “Rockin’ Box Event” provides opportunities to volunteer in a fun, social environment. This event is for those individuals who can’t make the weekday hours. “We play music and hire a DJ,” Treadaway says. “Recently, we had a Karaoke night, which was a lot of fun.”

Volunteering for the Regional Food Bank or any of its partner agencies is a great family-

oriented opportunity for most ages to get involved. Kids must be at least eight years old to volunteer, and those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. All volunteers under 18 must have a signed parent/guardian permission slip.

So, show your thanks this holiday season by volunteering as a family. You just may find another rewarding way to spend quality, family-fun time together on a regular basis and give another family hope. For that, we can all give thanks.

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

Local Resources for Volunteering

Not sure where to begin to get your family involved in volunteering? Here are a few resources to get you started:

•

For more information on the Regional Food Bank or to find a partner agency in your area, contact: The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma • 3355 S Purdue, OKC • regionalfoodbank.org Jamie Treadaway, volunteer coordinator • 405-600-3154 • jtreadaway@regionalfoodbank.org

•

To learn more about other volunteering opportunities in the community, visit Rebecca Lucas’ NonProfit Spotlight blog at metrofamilymagazine.com/nonprofit-spotlight.

•

Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/volunteering for a list of Volunteering Opportunities around the Metro that need your help. Know of an agency in need of help that is not found on our list? Be sure to let us know! Email calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com.

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19

Your Healthy Family Lessons from Laynie & the Importance of Blood Donation

When Brad and Lacey Payne were newlyweds five years ago, they had the same hopes and dreams that many have starting out in life. For Lacey, those dreams included being a mother. In fact, according to her, “My whole life, the only thing I knew for sure was that I wanted to be a mommy someday.”

In late spring of 2007, that wish was granted when Brad and Lacey discovered that they were expecting their first child. Lacey experienced a routine pregnancy, and they went in at 22 weeks for what they thought was a routine ultrasound. Then, says Lacey, “the nurse excused herself from the room to go consult with a doctor. I automatically knew something was wrong. I felt like I couldn’t breathe, like the room was closing in on me.” A doctor came in and informed the couple that their baby had several abnormalities.

Initially, Lacey was in shock. “I felt like this doctor had just told me that my lifelong dream might be taken away from me.” The next few days were a blur of testing. “We were on an emotional rollercoaster. We immediately called our pastor and Lifegroup and started prayer chains. Our prayer warriors and God’s peace carried us through from the day we found out our angel would be different.”

With an initial diagnosis of Trisomy 17 Mosaic, several doctors advised terminating the pregnancy, but Brad and Lacey chose to have faith and follow God. The diagnosis was rare, and possible symptoms included growth retardation, seizures, hearing loss, and mental retardation. Laynie Hope Payne was born January 16, 2008, weighing in at three pounds, four ounces. Though her parents were overjoyed, she was given a grim prognosis, and at only six days old she was discharged from the NICU and sent home with a hospice nurse. Brad and Lacey were told to “take her home and love her,” 20

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and “if you still have her in two weeks, take her to a pediatrician.”

Not only did the Paynes still have her, she lived in relatively good health for a full 22 months. At about nine months, Laynie was given a new diagnosis of Mosaic Variegated Aneuploidy Syndrome (MVA), of which there were only 24 known previous cases. As a result, there was little research to help determine Laynie’s prognosis or lifespan, so the Paynes decided to make the most of each day.

“Laynie Hope was the best baby on the planet. She was happy all the time, hardly ever cried,” says Lacey. Laynie was small, and she wasn’t mobile because of missing hip joints and low muscle tone in her legs, but she loved to play with her toys, listen to music, and dance around with her mama. According to Lacey, “Laynie was a people magnet. At first it was because she was so tiny, but then it was because she was so friendly.”

Things changed dramatically for the family in the fall of 2009. Laynie wasn’t gaining weight, her appetite had decreased, and she seemed lethargic. When her parents took her to the doctor, her pediatrician sent her immediately to the ER at Children’s Hospital for a blood transfusion. “For some reason, her body stopped producing red blood cells,” says Lacey. In fact, Laynie’s hemoglobin was down to 1.6, while normal levels range from 11-13. By all accounts, her hemoglobin was simply too low to sustain life. “God wasn’t finished with her yet,” explains Lacey. Other than close family and friends who prayed for miracles along with them, “we’d kept Laynie to ourselves. We had a total love affair for 22 months. We hadn’t told the world about Laynie yet, so God kept her alive, and we shared her story.”

They started visiting the Jimmy Everest Center at Children’s Hospital to check her blood counts and Laynie received blood and platelets as needed, initially every couple of weeks. “We never fully understood the importance of blood donations until then.

Her life depended on it. So do thousands of other children and adults in Oklahoma.”

The family began organizing blood drives in February of this year to get some credits towards Laynie’s account. They started a Facebook page called “Hope for Laynie” so that people could follow her story and pray for her, and to put the word out about the need for blood donations. Within two weeks, she had 700 fans, and her page November 2010

Laynie at 27 months old, Easter 2010.

Photo provided by Brad and Lacey Payne

T

his holiday season, most of us take time out of our busy schedules to be thankful. We remember to be thankful for our families and friends, for our homes, for the food that we eat, and for our health.

As a mother, I say prayers of thanks for my beautiful, healthy daughters every day, all year round. But what if your child didn’t have the blessing of good health? What if your child faced significant challenges? Can you still be AS thankful, even if the hand you’ve been dealt is potentially devastating?

While I’d like to think I could find that strength, I admit that I have my doubts. Let me tell you a story about one little girl and her incredible family, who not only accepted the challenges they faced, but found a way to do so with faith and gratitude.

now has over 3300 followers. The family became supporters of the Children’s Hospital Foundation (formerly the Children’s Miracle Network), and Laynie was Miss February in their 2010 calendar.

The response was so great that at one point, the Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) informed the Paynes that Laynie had the most blood donation credits for a single person in their history. According to OBI President and CEO Dr. John Armitage, “One in three people will need blood in a lifetime.

You never know, it could be a co-worker, friend, or someone in your own family. The last several weeks of Laynie’s life were possible because of blood donors in our community.”

In fact, Laynie received frequent transfusions for eight months, until her body quit responding. “The doctors told us we could continue with the transfusions as long as she had a good quality of life,” says Lacey.

Laynie reached a point that she required weekly transfusions, then biweekly. “We couldn’t keep her gums from bleeding, and she was requiring platelets more often, and it became too much.”

Laynie passed away on July 10, 2010. Still, says Lacey, “God was faithful, even in her passing. She was right where she was supposed to be, in my arms, sleeping like the beautiful angel that she was. She opened her eyes and looked at me and Brad as if to say, ‘I love you.’ Then she was gone.” Her family likes to say she went “running and running

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and running,” because they know how much she wanted to get up and go, though her earthly body wasn’t able. “Now she can,” says Lacey with a smile.

In spite of their loss and the trials they’ve faced, Laynie’s family is profoundly grateful.

“Laynie taught us to treasure every day. What could have been the most difficult heartbreak was actually the most perfect blessing we could have asked for,” says Lacey. “We are so thankful that God gave us 30 months with our angel instead of taking her at birth (or before) like the doctors predicted.” Instead, they had a chance to know her, to learn from her, and to share her with the world. “God is good,” says Lacey simply.

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Q & A: Donating Blood

Who can donate?

Healthy individuals over 17 who weigh at least 110 pounds and do not meet any of the deferral criteria are encouraged to donate regularly.

How long does it take to donate blood?

The entire process takes 40-50 minutes, though the actual donation time only takes 8-10 minutes for most individuals.

How often can a person donate?

Healthy individuals can donate blood every 56 days, plasma every 28 days, and platelets every 7 days.

What does the screening process involve?

Potential donors will answer a series of questions about their health and lifestyle history to determine eligibility, then undergo a brief physical exam.

Donors will have their iron levels checked, along with their temperature, pulse, and blood pressure.

How will a donor feel after giving blood?

Donors will be monitored for a short period after donating. They will be given a snack and a drink and a place to relax. Donors should eat well and increase their fluid intake for the next 24-48 hours and avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for the next two hours.

Where can I go to donate blood?

Contact the Oklahoma Blood Institute at 405-297-5700 or obi.org.

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

November 2010

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21

Dear Teacher Q&A with the Experts see that he gets help in this area.

Underachievement Issues Question: We have been struggling with our 10-year-old son, who is definitely an underachiever. He has been evaluated recently and was not found to have any learning disabilities. His IQ tested in the gifted range.

High IQ scores are not always predictive of success in school. Many bright students need help in learning how to study or have areas of weakness that need to be worked on. Your son needs to learn the discipline of handling appropriate homework assignments. Look for the help that he needs now.

Your Role in Teaching

Last year, it was a nightmare trying to get him to do his homework. The same thing is happening already this year. Punishments or rewards simply don't work and we’ve had so many struggles with him. Do you have any recommendations to help him?

– Defeated Answer: Ask him what it about his homework that he doesn’t want to do. He may say that he doesn't want to do what he already knows. In this case, both of you should talk to his teacher(s) about making a deal to reduce the homework load provided he is succeeding on tests without this practice. Another alternative is to ask for more challenging assignments.

On the other hand, if your son says homework is boring but he is not doing well on tests, ask what is holding him back on tests. He may say that he has trouble writing out the answers to test questions--in that case, he needs to be taught to organize his answers. Whatever he says is the problem,

Question: Our daughter’s preschool says to leave the teaching of students to the teachers. Should we not supplement the learning experience at home as well?

— Would-be Teacher Answer: We're not 100 percent sure what the school means by this. They are probably referring to formal teaching of reading and math. This could include teaching your children phonics, sight words and basic math concepts. Why don't you ask them exactly what they mean?

Parents are their children’s first teachers. It is definitely your job to encourage and guide their learning. You do this by seeing that they have an adequate supply of play things, taking them on all kinds of adventures to help them learn as much as possible about the world, and giving them the opportunity to play with other children and engage in both indoor and outdoor activities.

You prepare them to read by reading to them and talking to them about stories. This is

essential. You read words on signs, menus, and lists so they get the idea of what reading is. You definitely can teach them to count and recognize the number of objects in small groups of objects. What you don’t have to do is to use workbooks and worksheets to prepare your children to read and do math, this may be what the preschool means.

Handling a Misbehaving First Grader Question: My son, a first grader, is a saint at home, but he behaves terribly at school. I get an email from his teacher almost every day about his constant talking, making funny noises and getting out of his seat.

The teacher has tried sending him to the principal, eliminating recess and putting him in the hall. I have taken away privileges, from TV time to play dates with friends. What can be done to change his behavior? The teacher says he appears to be gifted academically.

– Misbehaving Answer: What your son is doing in the classroom is not unusual behavior for a first grader. It would be best handled in the classroom. Since the teacher doesn't seem to know how to handle the child, she should ask for help. One or more experienced

Reach over

80,000 readers.

Connect with moms of central Oklahoma.

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November 2010

You might come up with some good suggestions for the teacher based on your knowledge of what type of discipline works with your child. For example, a behavior chart is helpful for some children. Your son might check each time he talks to classmates. Then the goal would be to reduce this number each day until it is at an appropriate level. Also, seating him in the back of the room could make his behavior less noticeable.

What is IQ? Intelligence Quotient, or IQ, refers to the number used to express the apparent relative intelligence of a person.

The score is determined by the performance of an individual on a standardized test, when compared to others of the same age.

There is always the possibility that your bright child is misbehaving out of boredom. Perhaps he could be assigned more challenging work after he has completed routine assignments.

This might turn things around. Also, he may need work on his social maturity in order to handle being in the classroom environment.

teachers could visit the classroom and make suggestions.

You are too removed from your son's behavior to be punishing him after he has misbehaved. Instead, explain that you expect him to behave well in the classroom.

Also, it would be wise for you to visit the classroom and observe what he is doing.

Dear Teacher is written by Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts. Do you have a question?

Send it to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or visit DearTeacher.com.

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Oklahoma Reads Great Reads for Everyone Books for Early Readers

Franklin Anybook Reader

The Berenstain Bears and a Job Well Done

by Jan & Mike Berenstain (Zonderkidz, softcover, $3.99)

For ages 3 and up (Franklin Electronics, $39.99)

Turn your child’s favorite book into an audiobook with this genius invention. Place one of the special stickers on each page and use the reading device to mark the page and then record your voice.

Your child will then hear your voice when they read that book with the reading device. Have loved ones bring a copy of their favorite children’s tale when they visit this holiday season, and ask them to use the device to record the story, creating a keepsake that will include your far-away relatives in your child’s life.

Even the youngest of readers can learn the importance of doing a job well with this title featuring the classic and lovable family of bears.

I See the Sun in China

by Dedie King, illustrated by Judith Inglese (Satya House Publications, softcover, $12.95) Teach your early readers about life on the other side of the globe with this first in a series of titles about children’s lives in foreign lands.

Books for grades 4 & up Open Me Up

by Dorling Kindersley (DK Publishing, hardcover, $24.99) Do your kids think science is boring? Prove them wrong with this interactive title all about the human body. What makes you tick? Find the answers here.

If I had a hammer: Stories of Building homes and hope with habitat for humanity

by David Rubel (Candlewick Press, softcover, $10.99) Personal stories from those affected by the positive impact of Habitat for Humanity, including volunteers and new homeowners. An inspiring story about the people who began the program and those who have made it successful.

Books for grades 7 & up A Kid’s Guide to Giving

by Freddi Zeiler (Innovative Kids, spiral bound, $9.99) Is your child interested in giving back but not sure where to start? This title offers ideas and answers about all kinds of charitable giving, including ways to contribute and a resource listing of organizations that are in need of help. A great starting point for tweens.

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The Odyssey: A Graphic Novelization

by Gareth Hinds (Candlewick Press, softcover, $14.99) The epic poem by Homer has been transformed into a graphic novel that will engage even the most reluctant readers. Striking watercolor images bring the classic tale to life and are sure to engage young and old alike.

November 2010

Books for Adults Between Me and You Journals

by Winston Simmonds (Sand Dune Publishing, spiralbound hardcover, $14.95) It may be difficult for family members to share history or feelings; this series of journals include questions and discussion prompts to facilitate the sharing.

Operation Beautiful

by Caitlin Boyle (Gotham Books, softcover, $17) An amazing, true story about the power of the positive. Author Caitlin Boyle started a movement when she left a note on a bathroom mirror that read “You are Beautiful!” Let her story inspire you to make a positive impact.

Thanks Before Meals: Mealtime prayers (Zondervan, hardcover, $9.99) This small book is packed with 366 prayers of thanks that can be used to make every family dinner a special occasion. A reminder that every day can be a day of thanksgiving.

Reviews by MetroFamily Magazine editor Mari Farthing.

Thursday, December 2 5:30-8:30 p.m. $5 General Admission $4 Seniors & Military Children 3 & Under Free Free for Harn Homestead Members Tour the historic buildings and grounds, take a hay ride around the property, create Victorian holiday crafts and visit with Santa. The Harn Homestead Museum's gift shop will be open featuring fun toys and trinkets.

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Family Finances Charitable Giving Live Simply. Give Generously.

Experience Joy.

T

hat was the weekly saying posted out front of a local church. With the holidays rapidly approaching, it is an appropriate time of year to focus on living simply and giving generously to truly experience the meaning of Thanksgiving.

Philanthropy is practiced in virtually every country and every culture. It may be something as simple as taking dinner to a neighbor who has lost a job or mowing the yard for someone who recently had surgery.

It also includes making cash donations to local, state and national organizations that

provide goods and services to others in our communities.

The level of giving in the United States is the highest in the world. U.S. citizens contribute the largest percentage of personal income and have the largest percentage of citizen volunteers when compared with other nations. And, Oklahomans are among the most generous.

Cash donations tend to be the most common form of charitable contributions, and individuals contribute more than 80 percent of the money raised by charities in the United States. With the current recession, the level of giving has declined this year while the need for charitable services has increased. The same is true in Oklahoma, even though we have not been as seriously impacted by the economic downturn as other areas.

This time of year seems to make people feel more charitable and willing to give.

However, overspending, even for a good cause, can create financial hardships or reduce the ability to meet other monthly obligations such as savings or debt repayment. Setting a maximum limit on donations to religious, social and community efforts should be part of any family’s monthly budget or spending plan.

Smart Giving In addition, the holidays and the increased need for charitable services often means an increase in potential scams. The following are a few things to consider before responding to any solicitations for cash donations: • Be sure you have sufficient funds to make the donation.

• Never give cash. Always make contributions by check and make your check payable to the organization, not to an individual.

• Be aware of the organization and its purpose. Don’t be fooled by “sound alike” or impressive names that closely resemble the name of a well-known organization.

Check out the organization with the local Better Business Bureau or other similar groups to ensure it is a legitimate organization.

Tax Implications Whether donating cash or goods such as clothing or household items, charitable contributions are also a great way to reduce tax liabilities. To deduct a charitable contribution, you must file Form 1040 and 26

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November 2010

itemize deductions on Schedule A. The Internal Revenue Service offers the following tips when making charitable contributions: • Ensure contributions are made to qualified organizations, which excludes specific individuals, political organizations and candidates.

• The value of your time or services is not deductible; neither are the cost of raffles, bingo or other games of chance. However, out of pocket expenses, such as mileage, are deductible • If the contribution includes the receipt of goods or services (admission to a charity ball, theatrical performance or sporting event), only the amount that exceeds the market value of the good or services is deductible.

• Donating stocks or other items is generally valued at fair market value; however, special rules apply to donating vehicles.

• Donated clothing and household items must be in good condition to be deductible.

• Receipts, cancelled checks, bank statements, payroll stubs or some other form of written verification is required for all deductions (cash, check or other monetary gifts), regardless of the amount.

• If the value is more than $250, you must have a bank record, payroll deduction records or a written acknowledgment from the qualified organization showing the amount of the cash and a description of any property contributed, and whether the organization provided any goods or services in exchange for the gift.

• If the total deduction for all noncash contributions exceeds $500, complete and attach IRS Form 8283, Noncash Charitable Contributions, to your return.

• Items or a group of similar items valued at more than $5,000 require Section B of Form 8283 and appraisal by a qualified appraiser.

Charitable giving is an important part of our society. We give our time and money to various organizations because it makes us feel good and because we believe in the work they are doing. Giving back to our community is part of being a good citizen.

Making good choices about our giving is part of being financially responsible.

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

Dec 1-31 Beautiful Holiday Lights every evening in 5 areas: Downtown Edmond, 1st Baptist Church, Shannon Dec 5 Miller Park, Spring Creek Shopping area, and UCO. Dec 2

animals in the care of Baptist Boys Ranch Town.

Andre Watts in Concert at Armstrong Auditorium 405/425-1010 or www.ArmstrongAuditorium.org.

Edmond Electric Parade of Lights Dec. 2-5 & 11-12 & 18-19 Call 405/216-7671 for information.

Dickens of a Christmas in

Dec 3-5 Boys Ranch Town Living Christmas Pageant 7pm-9pm; This drive-thru pageant depicts the life of Christ enacted by the boys and

Downtown Edmond. Step back in time and enjoy free trolley rides, historical home tours and music. www.DowntownEdmondOk.com

Edmond Convention & Visitors Bureau (405) 341-4344 or toll-free (866) 341-4344 www.visitedmondok.com

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Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

Among the favorite things listed on Carrie Corbin’s Facebook page, there is a quote from author Dr. Leo Buscaglia: “Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.”

When the Oklahoma City mom set up her Facebook profile, little did she know how true those words would become for her and fellow mom Lori Wagner Ford following the tornado that hit the Oklahoma City metro area on Monday, May 10, 2010.

Tornado relief was all too familiar to Corbin, who had survived the May 3, 1999 tornado with nothing but her car and the clothes on her back. Her now teenage daughter was just a toddler when the tornado hit, leaving the family without a home and with few belongings.

“Helping out those who had been affected [by the 2010 tornado] was kind of a pay-it-forward type of thing,” Corbin explained. “For me, it was so important to be able to give back to people who were in the same situation I had been in before.”

For Edmond’s Lori Ford, getting involved with tornado relief following the May 10th tornado was just a natural reaction to the real-time news she was seeing on social media. When the mother of three saw tweets about an acquaintance that had lost everything when the tornado passed south of Norman, she felt compelled to help. As a professional marketing, event and social media consultant, Ford felt like she was in a unique position to lend a hand.

She contacted Corbin immediately, drawing on their mutual experience with event planning and organizing tweetups. Since they collectively had a “great network of people on Twitter,” Ford was optimistic that they could quickly do something to help families in need. As she began tweeting about their idea on that fateful Monday evening, she had no idea just what a splash the two were preparing to make.

Social Media Mavens Ford and Corbin could easily be called social media mavens, as they collectively have more than 1,600 Facebook friends, have posted nearly 20,000 tweets and are followed by more than 3,600 people on Twitter. “The cool thing about Twitter is how it allows you to stay in touch real time during an emergency.” Lori explained. “It was so cool to see how information could spread so quickly.”

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Ford and Corbin began tweeting under the hashtag of #okdonations, calling for donations of items, volunteers and, perhaps most importantly, a place to put everything that was donated. “The whole thing started on the night of the tornados and by noon the next day, we had secured a warehouse and were on our way,” Corbin recalls.

The pair decided to plan a tweetup the following Thursday, giving people from across the metro area a chance to step up and get involved.

OK Donations Tweetup Using their network of connections on Twitter, the event began to fall into place. Tweets about the event and the need for donations quickly circulated on Twitter, gaining steam when Lieutenant Governor Jari Askins retweeted information to her followers.

The tweetup was held on Thursday, May 13, and Cobin and Ford estimate that they had 200 attendees contributing items ranging from clothing to furniture to basic necessities.

“It was totally social media-driven,” Ford explained. “The cool thing about tweetups is meeting people in real life who you only communicate with online. This one was special because it benefited the community.” The tweetup event kicked off the OK Donations Relief Drive, which continued into mid-June with Corbin and Ford working daily at the warehouse receiving and distributing items.

Help From Friends In addition to the Corbin and Ford’s hard work, the relief efforts were buoyed by help they received from friends and supporters. One friend on Twitter allowed them to use his 14,000 square foot warehouse on Northwest 9th Street in downtown Oklahoma City as a repository for donated items. Another friend in the jewelry industry donated a diamond to be raffled at the tweetup, with proceeds benefiting the relief efforts. Food donations for the tweetup came from local restaurants, and retails stores donated the use of shopping carts, clothing racks and tables in the warehouse.

As the relief efforts continued, one of the biggest challenges the pair faced was to recruit the manpower needed to take in and organize all of the donations that were coming in. “It was amazing,” Corbin recalled. “We would put out a call for volunteers on Twitter and people really would show up.” Ford explained that the most compassionate volunteers were often those who had been through

How two women, one warehouse, a Tweetup and hundreds of donations changed the face of disaster relief.

disasters themselves, such as the May 3, 1999 tornado or Hurricane Katrina. “It’s like they are totally empathy-driven,” Ford said. “I really have an idea of how valuable time is now and how crucial it is to get people to help out. To be a successful service project, you have to have a great volunteer force.”

Many companies sent employees to volunteer, including Corbin’s employer AT&T and the Oklahoma Employees Credit Union (OECU). In addition to allowing the community to drop off items at any of their locations, OECU also provided employees with the option of volunteering at the warehouse during working hours— while on the clock.

“OECU got involved due to the information on social media,” said Scott Bell, OECU’s Vice President of Operations. “Some of the people affected by the tornado belong to the credit union and we are always looking for ways to be really involved on the ground level. It is what we represent, and we strive to live our core values.”

Making a Difference As the relief efforts continued, the OK Donations warehouse was designated as an official partner of the American Red Cross. “I got a call from the American Red Cross office in Washington, D.C., and I was like ‘Wow, we’re big time!’” Ford recollects. The effort also received media coverage on numerous TV stations and multiple newspapers.

“The hardest thing was getting the word out to the families that needed help to come to the warehouse. We would ask every car that drove up to donate how they had heard about the warehouse,” Ford explains. “Initially, it was ‘Facebook or Twitter,’ then it was ‘on the news,’ and finally ‘my next door neighbor told me’ as word began to spread.”

In all, the OK Donations Warehouse helped many families who were affected by the tornado. Corbin recalls that first family to be helped had lost everything in the storm, but fell just outside the boundaries for disaster relief as set by the American Red Cross. “They were able to get furniture and clothing,” Corbin explained. “Something to get them by until they could afford to buy new things. It was great just to know that someone can be blessed like that.”

While the warehouse had a wide range of donated items, including TVs, stereos and electronics, Ford reports that those were not necessarily the first to go. “People were more concerned about

getting things like deodorant,” she said. “It was so incredible to see how gracious the people were that came for help. We would take them by the hand and go through a typical house room-by-room and figure out what they would need.”

Items that remained at the end of the OK Donations relief efforts were donated to to non-profit groups that would use—rather than sell—the items, including the Spero Project, Christmas Connection, White Field Boys Home and the YWCA Women’s Shelter.

For their efforts, Corbin and Ford received commendations from Lieutenant Governor Askins. “Looking back, it was very rewarding, but very exhausting for sure,” Corbin chuckles. “For those weeks, every free minute was dedicated to that cause. We just had no idea that it would get so big.”

Oklahoma Spirit Both Corbin and Ford report being amazed and humbled by the sheer volume of donations received and by the number of people willing to help. “I’m totally floored by the amount of compassion that Oklahomans have for each other,” Ford said. “Some of the people who came said they had been looking for a place to donate and get involved. People’s hearts were definitely there.”

“Social media was definitely a key part. It’s such a new phenomenon,” muses Corbin. “It was not around when I lost everything [in 1999] and it took two days for me to even know whether I still had a place to live as I waited for news on the TV or radio. Today, the victims of a natural disaster might still have their cell phones and could check their social media and stay informed of opportunities for aid like this one.”

Ford reports that following the relief drive, there was a lot of pride on Twitter and a definite feeling of accomplishment. “This experience was a true test of social media and how it can provide positive results in the community,” Ford summarizes. “Social media helped to bring people together and showed how they can connect by helping out in relief efforts. It keyed into our area’s compassionate spirit and allowed people to make new friends while making an impact by helping others.”

“Personally, it helped me to realize that stuff is only stuff—it is the people, the friends, the love that keeps people going,” Ford concludes. “That is the true Oklahoma spirit.”

November 2010

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29

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

The Alert Parent Materialism and Thankfulness

A

few days ago, I got a call from my friend Marg who told me she was furious with her 15-year-old daughter, Sheila.

“We were out shopping. Getting a winter coat and shoes, which she needed. Then she had the gall to tell me she needed more clothes. We had done the back-to-school shopping thing only a few months ago.

She didn’t need more clothes.” In addition, Marg has two other children to dress for school.

Shelia told Marg, “Mom, I need to have a six-week-rotation.”

Marg couldn’t help wondering why her child’s concept of material goods had gone so far askew.

“What’s a six-week-rotation?” I asked. ©2010 Kumon North America, Inc.

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Exasperated, Marg explained. “It means she wants to wear an outfit once every six weeks.”

Is something terribly wrong with that picture?

If you want proof this is NOT an isolated incident, all you have to do is turn on your TV set. Shows like “Gossip Girl,” “My Super Sweet 16” and the various “Real Housewives” series all tell the same story and give teens the same message. “More is better.”

“My Super Sweet 16” is an MTV reality series that uncovers over-the-top birthday celebrations of some teens. One one episode, a teen named Priscilla went to the dentist to remove her braces before the big event to the tune of $1,000, only to put them back on again the following week.

Then there was the soon-to-be 16-yearold who was allotted $300,000 to plan her party. And another who trekked cross country to purchase the perfect party dress for $8,200. What about the girl who hails from Memphis? Her parents gave her a custom $125,000+ Hummer. She wanted to add a chandelier.

Yes, something is terribly wrong with that picture.

In a radio interview, John explained that materialism in teens is, in fact, a coping mechanism. “The level of materialism in teens is directly driven by self-esteem,” said John. “When self-esteem drops as children enter adolescence, materialism peaks. Then by late adolescence, when selfesteem rebounds, their materialism drops.”

John was involved in an interesting 2006 study conducted by Harris Interactive. A survey of 1,213 U.S. tweens and teens showed that children ages eight to 18 really love to buy things. So much so that “buying things” is at the top of their list of things they love to do. Seventy-one percent reported they would be happier if only they had more money to buy more things.

If we accept John’s contention—that a child’s opinion of him or her self is the driving force behind materialism—we have a means to counter. Plus, we also understand as a child grows older (and thus becomes more self assured), this over-thetop desire to shop and buy will hopefully lessen.

Quite possibly, your child’s biggest challenge is how she views and criticizes herself. Being able to re-direct this type of self-deprecating behavior is a major step in the right direction.

And it can’t hurt to keep an open dialogue going about what things costs and how much time it takes to earn, say $300. “I have to work all day to pay for that.”

We can help our children value themselves more, help them discover and use their strengths. Just like an adult, a child finds more self value when helping others and being productive.

Allyn Evans (TheAlertParent.com) is a published author, professional speaker and consultant residing in Stillwater.

“When self-esteem drops as children enter adolescence, materialism peaks. Then by late adolescence, when self-esteem rebounds, their materialism drops.”

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

Marg and I are not the only ones who think this. University of Minnesota Researcher/ Marketing Professor Deborah Roedder John believes materialism is directly tied to self-esteem.

November 2010

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31

The Prudent Pig-Out Guide How to eat, drink and not gain an ounce

Holiday parties may boost the spirit, but they can really give your waistline a pounding. According to Tammy Baker, M.S., R.D., a registered dietitian in Scottsdale, Arizona, it's hard to survive a cocktail party without scarfing down 1,500 calories. The trick is knowing what's in each nibble and budgeting accordingly. Here's the system: Take one small plate (about six inches across) and fill it up once with any four of the hors d'oeuvres from the chart below. (It helps if you spend the first half of the party talking with friends, before you head for the buffet.) No matter what you pick, you'll come in at around 400 calories. Have one of the drinks we list here, and you're still under 500. Cheers!

Snack

Serving Size

Calories / Fat

The Good News

Hostess with the Mostess Tips

Crudites

Your choice of:

70 calories

• 4 carrot sticks • 6 green and red pepper slices • 3 cherry tomatoes • 4 broccoli florets

1 gram of fat

Fresh vegetables have antioxidants plus filling fiber. Start here and return if you’re still hungry.

Make the vegetables look more appealing— vegetables onto skewers, cut radishes into roses, brighten green beans and broccoli by blanching.

Tortilla Chips & Salsa

Six chips with two tablespoons of salsa

145 calories

Salsa is a sneaky way to get a bit of the five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables you should eat daily.

Lighten up! For 110 calories and a single gram of fat, your guests can wolf down 21 baked tortilla chips

Potato Chips

Eight chips with two tablespoons of dip.

120 calories

This snack actually provides some Vitamin C—but only about 10 percent of your daily total.

Want a more colorful option? Try sweet-potato chips. Sixteen chips total 140 calories—and your guests will score almost their entire Daily Value of vitamin A.

Turkey

Two slices

80 calories

Turkey is lean protein, a good way to fill up with minimal calories.

For about the same calories and a bit more fat, ham and roast beef are also good bets. Get your meat from a deli and ask the butcher to slice thinly.

Hummus & Pita Bread

Two tablespoons hummus with ½ pita bread pocket

This is a healthy and filling fiber-and proteinrich snack choice.

Check your supermarket for ready-made hummus.

32

7 grams of fat

10 grams of fat

2 grams of fat

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125 calories 3.5 grams of fat

November 2010

Continued on page 34.

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33

Su em ev

The Prudent Pig-Out Guide Continued from page 32

Snack

Serving Size

Calories / Fat

The Good News

Hostess with the Mostess Tips

Cheese and Crackers

One ounce cheese plus eight baked wheat crackers (such as Wheat Thins)

170 calories

These two offer calcium and fiber (1 gram of fiber and 20 percent of your DV for calcium).

Soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert weigh in at about 20 calories and are 1 to 2 grams of fat lighter than Cheddar or Swiss.

Guacamole

Two tablespoons

50 calories

Yes, this avocado dip contains fat, but it’s monounsaturated—the type that's good for you.

To reduce calories, make your own guacamole at home and add more chopped tomatoes and vegetables.

Shrimp Cocktail

Four boiled shrimp;

65 calories

Two tablespoons cocktail sauce (made with ketchup and horseradish)

1 gram of fat

Shrimp is a great lowcalorie and low-fat source of protein.

Not a fan of shrimp?

Sushi and smoked salmon are also good low-fat splurges.

Champagne

Four ounces (one full flute)

104 calories

Sip champagne after you eat to offset the disinhibiting effects of alcohol that may send your willpower out the window.

Strawberries and raspberries in the bottom of a champagne glass look pretty and crowd out some of the calories.

Red Wine

Four ounces (one glass)

92 calories

Want two glasses for the price of one? Make a spritzer with one part wine to one part seltzer water.

You can feel saintly for serving red wine—it’s got good-for-you antioxidants.

Eggnog

Three ounces (about half of a regular punch cup)

8 grams of fat

4 grams of fat

0 grams of fat

0 grams of fat

98 calories as packaged; adding rum adds 70 calories per ounce 3 grams of fat

A serving of eggnog Love eggnog, hate provides about 110 mgs of calories? Make it yourself, calcium. substituting Egg Beaters for whole eggs and skim for whole milk.

Sandra Gordon is the mom of two and the author of Consumer Reports Best Baby Products.

34

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November 2010

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November 2010

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35

Bright Night of Harry Potter

Wanted: Students are needed to learn Defense Against the Dark Arts, Herbalism, Potion Making, even Quidditch. A storm is coming to Science Museum Oklahoma, and even if you don’t know the difference between a horcrux and a Hufflepuff we still need your help to stop “you know who” before it’s too late.

Preregistration required, cost to attend is $25 per participant ($35 for members and military). The magical fun begins at 6:00pm on Friday, November 19 and continues through 8:30am Saturday.

For more information, call 405-602-6664 or visit sciencemuseumok.org.

The Oklahoma Nutcracker returns to the stage for its 9th season on Sunday November 28th, at 3:00pm at the Nancy O’Brian Center for the Performing Arts in Norman. The Norman Ballet Company’s version of the beloved ballet classic, the Nutcracker, is centered on Oklahoma historical figures (the Henry Overholser family) in Act I and celebrates Oklahoma natural treasures in Act II, while still retaining the traditional Nutcracker story and score by Tchaikovsky.

Norman Ballet Company members and apprentices, as well as ballet students from studios throughout central Oklahoma will be dancing in the production.

36

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November 2010

Held at 1pm prior to the performance, the Sand Plum Fairy Tea Party ($18) allows family and children to meet the Sand Plum Fairy and Mouse King, as well as enjoy crafts, tea party sandwiches and desserts and an appearance by Santa Claus. New this year is the VIP Backstage Pass Party ($10) at 5:00pm, where attendees may meet and mingle with the cast, get autographs, enjoy refreshements and meet Santa Claus following the ballet.

Tickets to the The Oklahoma Nutcracker are $20; children receive a $3 discount off their performance ticket with the purchase of a tea party or backstage pass ticket. For more information, call 405-3641818 or visit normanballetcompany.com.

Interview with an Do you like when Donkey sings?

(Sydney B., age 5) Donkey has a great voice! Whenever we go on long hikes he usually makes up funny songs.

In anticipation of the upcoming production of Shrek: The Musical coming to Oklahoma City, MetroFamily held a contest, asking kids what they'd like to ask Shrek, either as an actor in the show or as the character. Shrek actor Eric Peterson answered them here.

How long does it take to get into your make-up and costume? (Noah W., age 10) It takes around 90 minutes to get into the make up. And about 15 minutes to get into the costume. It is a long process, but in the end I really look like Shrek which is cool!

What made you decide to play Shrek?

(Cody H., age 9) I really loved the movie and the Broadway show, and I was very excited to get the opportunity to play such a lovable character who goes on a long journey.

I felt like everyone loves the character of Shrek, and I love bringing that to audiences every night.

Is it fun getting to work with Donkey, he is soooo funny! (Aiden S., age 7, & Bryson B., age 3) I love working with Donkey, he is always making me laugh. Sometimes he is a little annoying, but at the end of the day, he is my best friend.

How do you and Fiona keep your clothes clean in the swamp? (Jenavieve B., age 7) Fiona and I have a wash tub that we use to clean our clothes. We don’t use soap though. We don’t like how it smells. We wash out clothes with moss, mud and sap.

Do you brush your teeth before going to bed? (Levi B., age 5) I do brush me teeth each night, but they always seem to end up looking really dirty. Oh well!

Did your mom teach you manners?

(Lucas H., age 5) My mom taught me to avoid men with pitchforks, but not really manners that you humans use. I know ogre manners, like how to belch properly...things like that.

Where did Shrek go to school?

(Kline R., almost age 3) I never went to school. I have a lot street smarts though from growing up in the swamp. I am planning on sending my kids to school though. I think it’s important to learn as much as possible in this crazy world. Maybe I wouldn't have been tricked

by Rumplestiltskin if I had gone to school.

What do you like to eat?

(Bryeason G., age 5) I love to eat snothers (squirrel gizzards, mulch and graham crackers)!

The all-ages production of Shrek: The Musical will be held at the Civic Center Music Hall November 9-14. For more information, visit celebrityattractions. com.

How long do Ogres live? (Caleb G., age 9) Ogres live about twice as long as humans.

Experience hockey at the Cox Convention Center with The OKC Barons, the American Hockey League affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers. Home games this month will be held November 5-7, 9, 12, 19, 21 and 23. Sunday games are followed by Family Skate Nights, where fans can skate on the ice and the November 5 game features a free Barons practice jersey to the first 2,000 fans through the door. Single game ticket prices range from $14-$36, and season tickets are available. Visit okcbarons.com for details.

© 2010 Steven Christy

November 2010

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

37

Quick Reference Weekly Events FREE Norman Sooner Mall Outreach Story Time is

American Banjo Museum 9 E Sheridan Ave, OKC 604-2793, banjomuseum.org

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 Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum 13th & Shartel, OKC 235-4458, oklahomaheritage.com Little River Zoo Hwy 9, Norman 366-7229, littleriverzoo.com Myriad Botanical Gardens Closed for renovations; opening in 2011.

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.org Oklahoma History Center 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr., OKC 522-5248, oklahomahistorycenter.org Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman 325-4712, snomnh.ou.edu Science Museum Oklahoma 2100 NE 52nd St, OKC 602-6664, sciencemuseumok.org Do you have an event for our calendar?

Send an email to Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com 38

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an interactive story time held outside Sears in Sooner Mall for ages 9 & under. Tuesdays, 10am.

FREE Art Adventures at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, Activities for children ages 3-5 with adult. Tuesdays, 10:30am.

FREE Admission at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art on Tuesdays. 10am-5pm.

FREE Tuesday Noon Concerts at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art feature 30-minute musical performances by the University of Oklahoma School of Music students & faculty. Tuesdays, 10:30am.

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

Toddler Time at the Mustang Recreation Center at Town Center (1501 N Mustang Rd) is held every Tuesaday & Thursday & allows toddlers & young children to run, climb, & play on an indoor playground.

Parent or guardian must remain with child. FREE with community center membership, or $2 per child. 9amNoon. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

FREE Wednesday Night at the Movies at the Downtown Library, 6-8pm. For all ages. Held every Wednesday of the month. 231-8650.

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

Fun Friday Preschool Activities at Mustang's Town Center (1201 N. Mustang Rd, Mustang) includes fun activities, crafts, games & snack each week for children ages 6 & under with parent. $3 per child. Every Friday, 10:30am. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

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

359-7989, UCOJazzLab.com.

FREE Children’s Storytime at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expressway) every Saturday, 10:15am.

842-2900, FullCircleBooks.com.

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art. Saturdays, 1-4pm. Create art inspired by the Museum’s collection, exhibitions, & special occasions. FREE with paid admission.

FREE Green Earth Gang for ages 9-13. The “Gang” works on conservation projects in Martin Park Saturdays from 2-5pm throughout the school year.

755-0676.

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

Sunday Nature Hikes at Martin Park Nature Center.

Guided park tour & nature hike each Sunday 2:30pm.

Reservations & a fee of $2 are required. 755-0676.

Ongoing Events Through Nov 6 Macbeth performed by Reduxion Theatre Company at City Arts Center Theatre at State Fair Park (3000 General Pershing Blvd, OKC) is an innovative telling of Shakespeare’s classic tale. May not be appropriate for ages 10 & under. $15, $12 students. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm. 651-3191, reduxiontheatre.com.

Through November 12 Emilio Amero Exhibition at Norman’s Jacobson House Native Art Center (609 Chautauqua Ave) showcases the work of the Hispanic artist, painter & cinematographer. 366-1667, jacobsonhouse.com.

Through November 13 Local Chapters of the 4H are collecting H.U.G.S. donations of new hats, underwear, gloves and socks to benefit local charitable organizations. Contact the Oklahoma County 4-H Program at 713-1125 for dropoff locations.

Nov 12-Jan 8

FREE 1-2-3 Play With Me at the Warr Acres Library for children ages 4 & younger with caregivers. Saturdays, 10:30am.

39th Annual Holiday Gift Gallery at the Firehouse Art Center (444 South Flood, Norman) offers unique items for holiday gifts handmade by local artists.

Monday-Friday, 9:30am-5:30pm; Saturday, 10am-4pm.

329-4523, normanfirehouse.com.

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

Through November 14

FREE Make & Take crafts at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May, OKC), Saturdays, 11am-3pm. Ages 3 & up. 858-8778, LakeshoreLearning.com.

History Comes Alive & Classic Cartoon Cruises held each Saturday, departing from Regatta Park or the Exchange Landing on the Oklahoma River. Round trip $12 adults, $8 for ages 6-12, FREE for under age 6.

702-7755, okrivercruises.com.

November 2010

Alfred Ossorio: Gifts from the Ossorio Foundation exhibit at the OKC Museum of Art features 11 works by the artist from 1949-1984.

Through November 17 Wide-Open Wednesdays at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum offers FREE admission each Wednesday.

NOVEMBER

Nov 18-Dec 23

Through January 2

13rd Annual Pottery Sale at City Arts Center features perfect holiday gifts made by CAC instructors & students, with all proceeds befitting the pottery program at City Arts Center. Monday-Thursday, 9am10pm; Friday-Saturday,9am-5pm.

Jonathan Hils: INTERSECTION, the second installment of the NEW FRONTIERS: Series for Contemporary Art at the OKC Museum of Art, is a selection of large-scale, hand-wrought automobiles.

Nov 26-Dec 12 Scrooge presented by the Sooner Theatre in Norman is a musical re-telling of the Charles Dickens' classic "A Christmas Carol." Tickets $23 & up, children's tickets $15. 321-9600, soonertheatre.org

Through November The Cowboy Way exhibit at the Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum includes a selection of Oklahoma-born artist H. Holden’s sculptures, paintings & drawings.

Bruce Goff: A Creative Mind exhibition at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art highlights the architectural achievements of one of the 20th century’s most internationally respected architects.

Operation Reindeer accepts donations to help the mentally ill. See page 8 for details.

Through January 10

Through December 12

Flying High & Crash Landing: Bull Wrecks in Rodeo exhibit at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum features the photography of Ralph R. Doubleday, Devere Helfrich & Bern Gregory.

Luis Jiménez: The Exhibition at the OKC Museum of Art presents six expressive lithographs by the artist revealing his interests in popular culture, social commentary & his Mexican-American heritage.

FREE Oklahoma in Polaroid exhibit by Norman artist Angela Castro in the State Capitol's North Gallery captures Oklahoma's landscape with the classic Polaroid look with minimal digital alteration. Weekdays, 8am-6pm; Weekend, 9am-4pm. 521-2931, arts.ok.gov/ capart.html.

Carbon Handprints at City Arts Center presents the works of Nigel Hall, British Royal Academician.

12th Annual Traditional Cowboy Arts Association (TCAA) Exhibition & Sale at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum showcases the work of TCAA members.

Mediterranean Treasures: Selections from the Classics Collection at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features 100 of the most significant objects from the museum’s classics collection.

Tierra de mi Familia exhibit at the Oklahoma History Center features interviews, artifacts, documents, photographs, film & music.

Through December 18

La Serenissima: Eighteenth-century Venetian Art from North American Collections at the OKC Museum of Art features eighteenth-century Venetian art in the age of the Grand Tour & through the decline of the Republic.

Through May 8 American Indian Printmakers from The Silberman Collection at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is the museum’s first exhibition to focus solely on the printmaking aspect of American Indian fine art.

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

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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 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

Looking for a fun family activity?

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McLoud, 133 N Main, 964-2960 Moore, 225 S Howard, 793-5100 Newcastle, 705 NW Tenth, 387-5076 Noble, 204 N 5th, 872-5713 Purcell, 919 N Ninth, 527-5546 Shawnee, 101 N Philadelphia, 275-6353 Tecumseh, 114 N Broadway, 598-5955 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

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Time for Holiday Painting!

December 2nd & 7th (Reserve you seat today)

Come see all our new ideas!

Holly Bowls • Christmas Trees Reindeer Hand/Foot Platters

paintnstation.com

Paint your own pottery studio 7906 N. May, OKC • 842-7770

Introducing the NEW Coliseum Sports Academy "All it takes is all you've got"

Volleyball

skills training for ages 7-18 Private, small group lessons and clinics Special programs for homeschoolers

www.coliseumsportsacademy.com coliseumsportsacademy@gmail.com Strength • Precision Quality • Respect

Advertise with MetroFamily, reach over 75,000 loyal readers and

Get Results!

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November 1 • Monday FREE Admission to the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

Career Quest at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History teaches students in grades 6-8 how science is used in real life by investigating real-world science careers. Six consecutive Mondays, 11/1-12/6.

Preregister. $40 members, $50 non-members. 4-6pm.

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

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

Science Under The Stars at the Oklahoma Aquarium.

"Oil & Water Don’t Mix" explores the impact of oil spills & oil pollution through demonstrations & hands-on experiments for children. 6:30pm.

3 • Wednesday FREE Artist Demonstration by Bert Seabourn at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum demonstrates etching, monotype & collagraphs. FREE as part of Wide-Open Wednesdays. 10am & 1:30pm.

Justin Bieber at the Ford Center as part of the "My World" tour. Tickets begin at $36. 7pm. Available at the Ford Center box office, participating Ticketmaster outlets, 800-745-3000, okfordcenter.com.

4 • Thursday FREE Oklahoma Diabetes Center “Know Your Numbers” Screening at the Oklahoma City Urban League office (3900 N MLK, OKC) offers health screenings for ages 18+ to evaluate risks for diabetes.

7am-1pm. 271-7000.

Wine Through Time at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S Boulevard) is a wine-tasting fundraising event for adults ages 21+. $50 per person.

6-8:30pm 340-0078, edmondhistory.org.

4-7 Contemporary Dance Oklahoma at the OU School of Dance Rupel Jones Theatre features four world premieres & two classic dance performances.

Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday 3pm. 325-4101, ou.edu/finearts/dance.

5 • Friday Chemistry Day at Science Museum Oklahoma shares the wonder & fun of chemistry with scientists of all ages. FREE with paid museum admission. 9am-5pm. .

FREE Stare Stare Stereo at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is a student-curated exhibition November 2010

featuring items from the museum's permanent collection to compare & contrast, appreciate & analyze. 6-9pm.

OKC Barons Hockey vs, Texas Stars at the Cox Convention Center. Tickets, $14 & up, 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com. 7:05pm. okcbarons.com. Other home games this month held: 11/6, 7, 9, 12, 19, 21, 23.

5-6 The Girlie Show at the OKC Farmer's Public Market Building (311 S Klein) features art, craftsmanship, food, music & funk. $15 in advance $20 at door. FREE for kids 12 & under. Friday, 7-11pm; Saturday, Noon-5pm. thegirlieshow.net.

52nd Annual Clem McSpadden National Finals Steer Roping at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie features top steer roping athletes competing for the World Title. Tickets start at $20, children 12 & under FREE. A portion of the proceeds benefit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. 7:30pm. 282-RIDE, lazye.com.

Music of Billy Joel & More presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features singer & pianist Michael Cavanaugh, star of the Broadway show “Movin’ Out.” Tickets $12 & up. 8pm.

232-7575, okcphilharmonic.org.

Holiday Home Tour & Unique Boutique presented by the Assistance League of Norman showcases Norman-area homes decorated for the holidays to benefit the League's philanthropic programs. $25.

11am-6pm. 321-9400, norman.assistanceleague.org.

5-21 A Promise of Home exhibit at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee) features the work of local artists created from materials that reference home or homelessness.

FREE admission with donation of toilet paper, paper towels, or personal hygiene products for Family Promise. Opening reception 11/5, 7-9pm. 878-5300, mgmoa.org.

6 • Saturday 5K To Monet Inaugural Run benefiting the Edmond Fine Arts Institute includes a one-mile family fun run & 5K race. $25 for 5K, $10 for family fun run if preregistered; add $5 day of race. 8am. 413-5439, edmondfinearts.com.

FREE Pumpkin Harvest Craft Festival at Yukon's Robertson Activity Center (Hwy 66 & Mustang Rd) features over 40 craft booths with candles, jewelry & quilts. 9am-4pm. 350-8937, cityofyukonok.gov.

5th Annual Weather Festival at Norman’s National Weather Center includes tours, children's activities, the storm chaser car show, hourly weather balloon launches, displays by local businesses & weatherrelated seminars. 9am-1pm. nwc.ou.edu

Saturdays for Kids—Relief Printing with Potatoes at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum teaches the basics of relief printing. 10am-noon.

Girl Scout Workshop at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features "Rocks Rock!" allowing scouts to explore the Earth's history through fossils, rocks, & crystals. $10 per scout includes workshop, general admission for scout & 1 adult per 5 scouts. Preregister. 10:30am-3:15pm.

Family Day at the OKC Museum of Art celebrates the Museum’s special exhibitions with hands-on art making, live performances, face painting, door prize drawings, & activities for all ages. FREE with paid admission.

Noon-4pm.

8 • Monday FREE How to Have a Green Holiday Season presented by the Holistic Moms Network Central Oklahoma chapter. Moore Medical Center cafeteria (700 S Telephone) 6:30pm. centralok.holisticmoms.org.

The Oklahoma County 4H 8th Annual Chili Supper & Auction will be held at the OSU Cooperative Extension Service auditorium (930 N Portland) & benefits 4H programs. Silent auction 6pm, live auction 7pm. All you can eat chili, $3 adults, $2 ages 6-12, 5 and under free.

713-1125.

9 • Tuesday

FREE Veterans Day Celebration presented by the City of Norman at Reaves Park (Constitution & Jenkins Ave) includes food, live music & fun. 5pm, fireworks at dark. visitnorman.com

Mealtime Hassles Workshop for adults at the Warr Acres Library addresses meal times as one of the most challenging areas of parenting & offers techniques to help ensure that children get adequate nutrition.

3:30-5pm.

Great Escape at Mustang's Town Center (1201 N Mustang Rd) allows parents to have a date night & children ages 5-12 to escape to other cool cultures with dinner, games, movies & crafts. $15 per child.

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

An Evening with Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas at Oklahoma City Community College's Bruce Theater (7777 S. May) showcases Scottish fiddle and cello music. 7pm. Tickets $24.50 and up. 682-7576, occc.edu/cas.

Children's Holiday Clothing Fashion Show with a red carpet runway at Uptown Kids (5840 N. Classen Blvd, OKC) 7pm. 418.8881, uptownkidsstyle.com.

Storytime Science at Science Museum Oklahoma has the museum's performer-puppeteer piloting kids through the silliest science stories around. 10:30am & 2:30pm.

FREE with paid admission.

Hope Ministries Adoption Symposium at CrossPointe Church in Norman (2601 SE 24th), 10:30am-3:30pm.

Features speakers from international, domestic and DHS adoptions as well as Foster Care information.

Lunch and childcare is provided for those attending.

A donation of a new article of children’s clothing is suggested, but not required. Details, 630-7600 or hopeadoptions@gmail.com.

6-7 Museums on Us: Bank of America Free Weekend at the OKC Museum of Art & the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum provides FREE admission for Bank of America credit/debit card holders.

7 • Sunday OKC Thunder vs, Boston Celtics at the Ford Center, 6pm. Tickets, 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com. nba. com/thunder. Other home games this month: 11/10, 12, 14, 17, 22, 24, 29 Winter Wind Concert Series presented by The Performing Arts Studio (200 S Jones, Norman) presents the music of Sam Baker. $20, 7pm. 307-9320, thepas.org.

7-12 Concert by Elaine & Susan Watts and the Fabulous Shpielkehs will be featured at various Metro library branches. The concert features this mother and daughter team performing the centuries-old tradition of secular Jewish melodies known as Klezmer music. See metrolibrary.org for schedule.

10 • Wednesday FREE Artist Demonstration of Relief & Silk-Screen Printing by Marwin Begay at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. FREE as part of Wide-Open Wednesdays. 10am & 1:30pm

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FREE Admission for Veterans at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum for up to six people. All active duty, active reserve, Ready Reserve Service members, National Guardsman, Coalition Forces members & retirees, American Legion members & VFW members are eligible for free admission & may bring up to five guests. Military ID required. 10am-5pm.

FREE Admission for Veterans at the OKC Zoo includes all active duty, active reserves & retirees & up to five guests. 9am-5pm.

The Character Council of Central Oklahoma’s Character Council Banquet is held at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. See page 12 for details.

11-13 Bye Bye Birdie presented by Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma's Thelma Gaylord Academy at Lyric's Plaza Theatre (1725 NW 16th) is an all-ages 1960’s musical that tells the story of rock & roll star, Conrad Birdie, who’s been drafted to the army. $7 advance, $10 at door.

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

November 2010

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732-7722

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

41

12 • Friday

music & shopping. NW 16th between Classen & Penn.

7-11pm. plazadistrict.wordpress.com.

2nd Annual Women's Conference presented by the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce's at the UCO University Center features a keynote Edmond's own Olympic Gold medalist Shannon Miller & breakout sessions.$50 members, $60 nonmembers. 8am-1pm.

341-2808, edmondchamber.com.

13 • Saturday City on a Hill 5K & Fun Run features a course through downtown OKC with proceeds benefitting the Tapestry Project's efforts to revitalize deteriorating neighborhoods through renovation, restoration, & helping community members thrive. $25 for 5K, $15 for fun run. 8am. 496-5891.

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

FREE Oklahoma Diabetes Center “Know Your Numbers” Screening at the Vietnamese Community Fair (NW 23rd & Classen, OKC) offers health screenings for ages 18+ to evaluate the risk of diabetes. 9am-2pm. 271-7000.

All American Idol at the Coca-Cola Bricktown Events Center showcases local talent & benefits the Bethel Foundation's mission to help single mothers. Tickets begin at $15, available at ticketstorm.com. 6pm. 2863700, bethelfoundationusa.com.

8th Annual Holiday Bazaar at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (308 NW 164th, Edmond) features a variety of vendors, door prizes & bake sale. 9am-4pm. 348-3292, holytrinityedmond.org.

Wags to Riches at the Hamilton Event Center (41 NW 144th Circle, OKC) benefits Norman's Second Chance Animal Sanctuary with a doggie fashion show with fashions from Project Runway winner Jonathan Kayne, silent and live auction. $40 per person, $60 per couple.

6-9pm. 321-1915, secondchancenorman.org.

Story Time at Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen) has a special guest portraying Princess Belle. 10:30am.

418.8881, uptownkidsstyle.com.

FREE LIVE on the Plaza held in the Plaza District the second Friday of each month. Artwalk, local artists, live

Gallery Stories at the OKC Museum of Art focuses on "Seascapes & Landscapes” with stories about artists, artworks, & their inspiration, with connections to children’s literature. FREE with paid museum admission, parent or guardian must remain with child. 2pm.

Greater Oklahoma Bluegrass Music Society (GOBMS) Bluegrass Concert/Jam features three professional bluegrass bands in a family-oriented show at the Oklahoma Country-Western Museum & Hall of Fame (3925 SE 29th, Del City) $6. Children 12 & under FREE. 6:30-9:30pm. 677-7515, gobms.org.

VeggieTales Live! Tour at Crossroads Church (8901 S Shields Blvd, OKC) features Bob, Larry & the whole crew taking the stage with the silliest Silly Song Countdown ever to teach the importance of sharing.

Tickets $15, $12 for groups of 10 or more. 2pm & 7pm.

634-1495, itickets.com.

14 • Sunday FREE 2010 Capitol Blue Dome Day on the 4th Floor Rotunda of the at the Oklahoma State Captiol (NE 23rd & Lincoln, OKC) commemorates World Diabetes Day with educational materials, speakers, & blue pins for participants. The Capitol Dome will also be lit blue for the event. 5-7pm. 425-4422

15-17 The Creativity World Forum is held at the Cox Convention Center. See page 10 for details. stateofcreativity.com.

16 • Tuesday FREE Admission at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum for Statehood Day includes discounts in the museum store & access to all galleries. Special evening festivities for moms (5-7pm) include discounts in the museum store, 42

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

November 2010

visits from vendors, food & wine tasting. 9am-5pm.

Tuesdays At Sundown at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum features American Indian artist Benjamin Harjo speaking about printmaking 6:308pm. FREE for members, $5 nonmembers.

17 • Wednesday FREE Native American Gallery Grand Reopening at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum celebrates with new installations focused on diversity & a display showcasing Native horse culture. The Museum Store will feature a Native American jewelry trunk show. 6-8pm.

18• Thursday Small Works, Great Wonders Winter Art Sale at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is a reception & fundraiser featuring works from Prix de West & other select artists. $60 members, $75 nonmembers. Preregister. 6-9pm.

FREE Family Game Night at Mustang’s Town Center (1201 N Mustang Rd) held the third Thursday monthly & offers a featured game each month, or bring your own.

Children 10 & under must be accompanied by adult.

6:30-8:30pm. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

Family Night Out: Family Game Night at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History will teach participants some great outdoor & indoor family games & help them develop their own. $10 per person for members, $12 nonmembers, children under 4 FREE. Includes pizza dinner. Preregister. 6-8:30 pm.

19 • Friday Movie Night at the Museum at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History screens "Cats & Dogs II: The Revenge of Kitty Galore" in the museum’s Great Hall. $5 adults, $3 ages 6-17, children 5 & under FREE. Members receive $1 discount. Galleries open 5:30-7pm. Movie at 7pm.

FREE Art After Hours at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is a 45-minute lecture about American artist Daniel Ridgway Knight, includes light refreshments.

6pm.

Bright Night of Harry Potter at Science Museum Oklahoma invites children ages 7 to 15 to have fun learning defense against the dark arts, herbalism, potion making, even Quidditch to help to stop “you know who” before it’s too late. Preregister. $45 per participant, $35 for members & military. Friday, 6:00 pm to Saturday, 8:30am.

FREE Movie Night at the Rodeo Opry (2221 Exchange Ave, OKC) screens the movie "The Man From Oklahoma" starring Roy Rogers & Dale Evans in recognition of Oklahoma's Statehood Day. 7pm.

235-7267, stockyardcity.org.

18-21 The Frog Prince presented Fine Arts Institute of

Edmond's Junior Theatre Company .Tickets $5 Thursday-Saturday, 7pm; Saturday-Sunday, 3pm.

340-4482, edmondfinearts.com.

19-20 Little Red: The True Story of Little Red Riding Hood presented by Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma's Thelma Gaylord Academy at Lyric's Plaza Theatre (1725 NW 16th) is an all-ages original musical offering a fresh take on an old tale. $7 advance ,$10 at door. Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 2pm & 7pm. 524-9312, lyrictheatreokc.com Holiday Home Tour presented by The Edmond Women’s Club features eight homes in Edmond's Lakeside at Oakdale addition decorated for the holidays by local designers & retailers. Preview Party held Friday, 6:30-9:30pm ($25) includes preview tour, desserts, wine & silent auction. Home Tour Tickets $15 advance, $20 day of event. Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 12-5pm. ewc.org.

Lighting festivals

abound in the metro area and around the state during the holidays, with many starting the weekend prior to Thanksgiving.

By November 10, find a complete list of statewide holiday lighting festivals and other holiday activities at metrofamilymagazine.com/ holiday-fun.

20 • Saturday Story Time at Uptown Kids (5840 N. Classen, OKC) has a special character storyteller. 10:30am. 418-8881, uptownkidsstyle.com.

Yukon’s Christmas in the Park Opening at City Park (2200 S Holly), Chisholm Trail Park, (500 W Vandament) & Freedom Trail Playground features over 100 acres of twinkling lights, 5K Run (4pm, registration required), & Fun Walk & Kris Kringle Karnival (6-8pm).

Includes pictures with Santa, games, holiday music, wagon rides & special visits from Frosty, Rudolph & more. 354-8442, cityofyukonok.gov. Light display continues through 12/31/10, 6-11pm nightly.

Oklahoma City Indian Clinic Red Feather Gala at the Petroleum Club in downtown OKC supports the Clinic's capital campaign to create a pediatric, medical & social services center for Native American children.

$100 per person. 7-10pm. 570-8332.

Folk Dances & Celebrations presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features Grammy Award nominated violinist Phillippe Quint. Tickets begin at $12. 8pm. 232-7575, okcphilharmonic.org.

20-21 FREE Grandparents Raising Grandchildren retreat at Hastings Eatery (113 W. Harrison, Guthrie). Preregister. Childcare available. 418-3848, yourthrivingmarriage.com.

21 • Sunday FREE Family Days at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art allows families to explore the museum's permanent collection & temporary exhibitions & enjoy a variety of hands-on activities. 1-4pm.

Winter Wind Concert Series presented by The Performing Arts Studio (200 S. Jones Ave, Norman) presents the music of Nathan Brown & Beth Wood. $15 7pm. 307-9320, thepas.org.

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2nd Annual Bark & Roll Charity Dinner Event at Benvenuti’s Restaurante (105 W. Main, Norman) benefits Norman's Second Chance Animal Sanctuary with live music, Italian buffet and silent auction. $50.

6-9pm. 321-1915, secondchancenorman.org.

22 • Monday Monday Study Club for mothers of students in 6th grade & above features a presentation by Chuck Mai of AAA of Oklahoma that will help mitigate the terror of teen driving. 3rd Floor of 50 Penn Place. $25 annual dues, $12.50 per meeting for lunch. 11:30am. mallerynagle@swbell.net.

23 • Tuesday Tiny Tuesdays: Turkey Jive at the OKC Museum of Art is a come-&-go, “drop-in” style art making activity geared towards children, ages 2-5, with a parent or caregiver that encourages families to create together, to explore & experiment with a variety of art media, & to enhance their understanding of art. FREE with paid admission. 10am-noon.

24 • Wednesday FREE Admission to the OKC Zoo in celebraton of the Thanksgiving holiday. 9am-5pm.

25 • Thursday

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Happy Thanksgiving to your family from all of us at MetroFamily! We count our readers as blessings.

26-28 Scuba Santa at the Oklahoma Aquarium has everyone's favorite jolly guy going for a swim among the fish in the 65,000 gallon saltwater tank & posing November 2010

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for unique photos with children. 3:30 pm. Also held December 4-5, 11-12, 18-24.

28 • Sunday The Oklahoma Nutcracker presented by the Norman Ballet Company at the Nancy O'Brian Center for the Performing Art (1809 Stubbeman). Details on page 36. 3pm. 364-1818, normanballetcompany.com.

30 • Tuesday FREE UCO Winter Glow event "A Night at the Nutcracker" at Nigh University Center on the UCO campus. Kid crafts, holiday snacks and carriage rides.

FREE pictures with Santa with toy donation to Hope Center. uco.educ/winterglow.

December 1-2

(formerly the Ford Center). Tickets begin at $25.

7:30pm. Available at the Ford Center box office, participating Ticketmaster outlets, 800-745-3000, theokcarena.com.

2 • Thursday FREE Holiday Happening at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History offers free museum admission, live holiday music, storytelling, crafts, pictures with Santa & one-night-only discounts on purchases in Excavations, the museum store. 6-9pm.

Edmond Electric Parade of Lights in downtown Edmond. 216-7671.

Territorial Christmas Celebration at Harn Homestead with hay rides, crafts and more. $5 admisison; $4 for Military and Seniors; children 3 & under FREE.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra at The OKC Arena

2-3 Barney Live in Concert: Birthday Bash! at the Cox Convention Center features a fun-filled show about sharing, caring & friendship. Thursday, 6:30pm; Friday 11am & 6:30pm. Tickets $15 & $20, 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com.

2-5 FREE Journey to Bethlehem, a guided tour through a First Century Christmas experience. Forest Hills Christian Church. 2121 N. MacArthur, OKC. 495-0439, fhcc.org

4-5 Central Oklahoma Ballet Company in Yukon presents The Nutcracker. $12 in advance, $15 at the door. 3541743, www.centraloklahomaballet.org.

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Happy Fall Y’all!

Here are a few metro kids enjoying a fun fall day. of Edmond at Sarah Kate T., age 5, wcastle.

Ne in s TG Farm

Chopper V., 11 months, of Norman at Lions Park

We want you to share your photos. Submit snapshots of your child enjoying a holiday activity (even one from last year).

We’ll put them all online and select a few to print in our December issue.

Photo submission guidelines and a form to submit your photos may be found at metrofamilymagazine.com/ mfm-photo-galleries.

10, and Emma L., age 4, Ashlyn L., age at their dad Brandon of Guthrie ch Pat pkin Pum Parkhurst

Josie C., age 6, Rhett C., Rheve C., age 2 , or Mo age 4, and ore in an open field near their home.

Geni P., age 11, and Isabella P., 18 months, of Del City at the Orr Family Farms.

By the deadline of November 18, submit a photo of your family supporting the Barons to be eligible for consideration as the December MetroFamily Fan of the Game.

The winner will receive a four-pack of tickets to an upcoming game and a choice of other great perks such as a group picture on the ice after the game. PLUS your family's winning photo will be included on our photo page in December.

Find out more, get your "game on" and enter your photo at metrofamilymagazine.com/ barons-family-fan-photo-contest.

Meghan T., age 4, of Norman in her Barons t-shirt. She and her family are the OKC Barons MetroFamily Fan of the Game for November and will enjoy the great prizes listed above. Congratulations!

46

Good luck and Go Barons!

Ava M., age 3, of Moore at the Orr Family Farm during Fall Break.

Excludes orange juice, coffee, and shakes. À la carte only. Does not apply to bottles and cans. Lemon available upon request. Price and participation may vary. ©2010 McDonald’s