Mountain Parent Magazine February - March

FEBRUARY

I

M A R C H 2 0 19

MOUNTAINPARENT R OA R I N G

SEASONAL SNIPPETS

F O R K

VA L L E Y,

WHAT'S HAPPENING

C O L O R A D O

EVERY AGE & STAGE

RECREATION & OUTDOORS

HEALTHY UNDERSTANDING SPECIAL WELLNESS SECTION

I family care and prevention.

Unexpected illness and injury happens. Call for same day appointments.

We know that all the things you’re juggling in life affect how your body is working. So, we get to know more than just your symptoms - we get to know you. Our expert team of providers is dedicated to you and your family. That means not only giving the very latest in evidence-based care and treatments, but also giving you our undivided attention and more one-on-one time.

Your friends. Your neighbors. Your healthcare.

NEWBORN & PEDIATRIC CARE ACUTE ILLNESS/INJURY CHRONIC CONDITIONS ROUTINE SCREENINGS SPORTS MEDICINE GYNECOLOGY TRAVEL CONSULTATIONS AROUND THE CLOCK ACCESS Kimball J. Spence, DO; Daniel J. Smith, DO; Lauren F. Sontag, MD; Jennifer Bouchet, LCSW; Gary D. Knaus, MD; Andy Henrichs, PA-C; Andrew W. Gisleson, DO; Elizabeth F. Spidell, DO; Ivy Hansen, MPAS,PA-C

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH EXTENDED HOURS

Appointments available Monday through Saturday in our Carbondale office, 978 Euclid Avenue and Monday through Thursday in our Willits office, 350 Market Street.

Seeing patients in Willits: Kimball Spence (Monday), Ivy Hansen (Tuesday), Daniel Smith (Wednesday), Andrew Gisleson (Thursday)

970.963.3350

VVH.ORG/RFFP

MOUNTAIN PARENT

FEBRUA RY– M A RCH 2019 I S S U E 11

In this Issue FEATURES:

20

School Rules for Grown Ups

s.

Parent-to-Parent advice from pre-K to graduation.

et

is

d

23

e.

y)

Building a Bridge Dr. William Bledsoe guides us step-by-step through a Restorative Process for resolving family conflict.

27

Hope. Paper. Scissors.

Meet our 2019 cover artists, Lily and Elana Royer, a mother-daughter creative team who turned their struggle to overcome Cystic Fibrosis into a thriving national greeting card line.

59

THE BEST THINGS IN LIFE ARE FREE

Sled hills and other local favorite freebies

31

SPECIAL SEC TION:

HEALTHY Our annual quest for wellness at every age and stage of parenting.

MOUNTAINPARENT

DEPARTMENTS: Seasonal Snippets community ice + local skiers DIY Chinese New Year dragon puppet Helping Hands the Zurbuch Foundation's pre-k safety net Around The Table Valentines love = chocolate truffles + wine Good Sport martial arts + valley-wide programming What’s Happening ongoing + February & March events Out & About "society" snapshots Up Next a sneak peak at Spring

7 9 13 18 49 54 60 62

HEALTHY

• • • • • • • • •

Prenatal Yoga Newborn Sleep Tongue-Tie Allergies Slow Tech Media Diet Boundaries in the Me Too Era Body Image Thriving Pets Wellness Directory

U N D E R S T A N D I N G OUR ANNUAL QUEST FOR WELLNESS

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MOUNTAIN PARENT

Dear Readers, GET THE HEEBIE-GEEBIES WHEN YOU SEE BLOOD? Time to buck up. Sympathy gag when you see vomit?

No time for that! Too sophisticated to discuss poo at a party? Too bad. If you didn’t want to start a career in healthcare, you never should have become a parent. While I am (very much) not a real doctor, I have now realized that healthcare is my true work most days. Bodily fluids and all, our primary mission as a parent is to grow our precious little embryos into the healthiest and happiest adults that they can possibly be. In the early years, the work of supporting their health has a microscopic lens. We notice the tiniest of scratches, a subtle change of smell, or even the changing sparkle in their eyes. These are things that only a parent can pick up on. It is rugged and dirty work. Any parent who has had to wipe pee out of their eyeballs understands me. It is very dirty.

I am so inspired by our new cover artists – Lily and Elana Royer. They share their story of perseverance battling cystic fibrosis in Hope. Paper. Scissors (pages 27-30). Positive attitudes, business acumen and gushing creativity are a way of life for their family. We are honored to see their original artwork from their Lilybart greeting card line gracing the cover of Mountain Parent this year!

In our annual Healthy special section, we tapped an expanse of local healthcare providers and healers to give us ideas for physical and mental wellbeing through every age and stage of parenting. Thank you to everyone who provided insight. Just like everything else in parenting, it truly “takes a village” to be well.

Lauren Suhrbier, Publisher

MOUNTAIN PARENT MAGAZINE

COVER ARTISTS

Meet 2019 cover artists

LILY & ELANA ROYER PAG E 27

WEBSITE

MOUNTAIN-PARENT.COM

Find new content between issues, plus more current events on our online What’s Happening community calendar.

DISCLAIMER

The opinions and views expressed by contributors to Mountain Parent are not necessarily those of the Publisher. Mountain Parent Magazine is registered with the State of Colorado.

Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without permission is prohibited.

CONTACTS:

editor@mountain-parent.com kathryn@mountain-parent.com mountain-parent.com and on Facebook

SAY HELLO:

free community calendar become a contributing writer promote your organization

“YOU’RE LIVING THE DREAM,” my friend Debbie’s boyfriend said as the three of us soaked at Iron Mountain Hot Springs. Debbie had texted me during the peak of my deadline crunch to make plans while they visited the Valley during an impromptu powder-inspired jaunt up from Denver. For most of their time here, while they stayed in the Air-B&B right next door, I didn’t even see them. I was blinders-on focused on editing this edition, while failing to manage any semblance of work-life balance. I get the irony of snarfing dark chocolate after midnight while writing about health – but I chose this and I'd do it all over again. I took off work for most of my children’s holiday break, and I couldn’t be more grateful to get to opt for super-long workdays to catch up after a string of days off skiing, sledding and playing Catan in PJs with my kids. Such is what it sometimes means here to LIVE THE DREAM. This comment got me thinking. I AM living the dream. Hardly a day goes by when I don't pause to appreciate it. I count many blessings: peace, safety, clean water, fresh air, snow, rivers, trails, wildlife, neighbors, friends, schools, fun – and the list goes on and on. We’re blessed to raise our children here.

The heart of this choice, I feel, is that these gifts of place contribute to our overall health. Many of us LIVE THE DREAM fully, consciously, vigorously. See our feature story about our cover-artists, Lily and Elana Royer, to appreciate how one local family embraces the mountain lifestyle as a healing protocol.

Yet, as Jennifer Hawks wisely tells us in her piece about Healthy Boundaries, we live in a bubble, and sometimes this bubble bursts. For all of its wonder, this place also comes with financial struggles, work-life imbalances, and the reality (for many like me) of living far away from extended families – plus the universal, gritty health challenges that all parents face as we and our children age.

This speaks to the conundrum we met with our annual Wellness special section. We wanted to celebrate our community's health-imbuing lifestyle, while also bringing into focus the ways this place might also contribute to our being unhealthy. Universal topics, such as sleep or lack thereof, and teenage body image, come home through a gathering of local voices whose experiences are shaped by the peaks and valleys (both literal and figurative) that we share. We are delighted to introduce three young women, Brae Hubbard, Lily Royer, and Ruthie Brown, all of whom are in high school, and who share first-person experiences of creating their own health. They, along with the rest of our contributors, give us a reflection of what it means right now to be healthy here, trying to LIVE that elusive DREAM. Kathryn Camp, Editor

MOUNTAIN PARENT MAGAZINE 4

ROARING FORK SCHOOLS 2019-20 ENROLLMENT Kindergarten Information Nights

February and March Kindergarten School Tours

Registration & Enrollment

February 28 / 5:00 - 6:00 pm Carbondale Community School

Basalt Elementary Feb 21 & 28, March 7 & 14 8:30 am + 12:30 pm

Kindergarten & Early Childhood Registration Friday, April 5 7:30 am - 5:00 pm

March 19 / 5:30 - 6:30 pm Riverview School April 1 / 6:00 - 7:00 pm Sopris Elementary April 2 / 5:30 pm Crystal River Elementary School April 3 / 5:30 - 6:30 pm Glenwood Springs Elementary April 4 / 6:00 pm Basalt Elementary School

Crystal River Elementary Thursdays, 8:30 - 9:30 am Carbondale Community School Tuesdays, 1:00 pm. Please call ahead to 970-963-9647 Glenwood Springs Elementary Fridays, during school hours Riverview School Any school day, during school hours Sopris Elementary Tuesdays, 9:00 am

Kindergarten is open to all students who will be five years old on or before October 1, 2019. he early childhood program is open to all children between the ages of 12 months (and walking) and 5 years.

General Registration March 20 A general enrollment period for students in grades 1-12 will open in February.

Parents of students who want to attend a school at which they do not have a guaranteed seat (e.g., those newly enrolling in a school outside the attendance area) should submit their enrollment intent by March 20 to the school they plan to attend.

All information and events in Spanish and English 5 Contact: 970-384-6000 rfschools.com/parents/enrollment

Contributors

SARAH BAY

WILLIAM A. BLEDSOE PHD

RUTHIE BROWN

PATTI CONNOLLY

ABBY GIERKE

JENNIFER HAWKS

BRAE HUBBARD

ANNA VALENTY

ASHLEY WEITZEL WILSON

COREY ZURBUCH

Sarah is the Owner of 8 Straight Sleep Consulting, where, in just two years, she has helped nearly 300 babies (and their parents!) learn happy and healthy sleep habits. She shares her expertise and down-to-earth perspective in our Healthy Habits piece. The Roaring Fork Valley has been home to Sarah and her family for ten years where she enjoys skiing, hiking and camping with her husband and six-year-old daughter.

Jennifer moved to the Roaring Fork Valley from Oklahoma 11 years ago with her 2 children. Jennifer lives in Glenwood Springs with her husband Troy and her daughter. Her son is a Junior at Colorado Mesa University. Jennifer specializes in working with at-risk youth and their parents at YouthZone. (See page 48 for more info about this award-winning local program.)

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William has been called a “groundbreaking pioneer” by his peers for his development of the Restorative Method of conflict resolution, for which he has received national and international recognition. For his work in building an acclaimed University Restorative Justice Program, he was recognized by the University of Colorado’s Institute for Ethical Civic Engagement. William has been a college professor, researcher, consultant, trainer, keynote speaker, author and filmmaker. He is a loving father and devoted son.

Brae's Healthy Body Image article is adapted from her essay titled, ¨Body Positive: Advocating For Women’s Healthy Body Image."

She originally wrote this piece as part of a year-long self-designed and mentored study she completed while in 8th grade at WSRF. Though Brae's roots are in the Roaring Fork Valley, she moved in 2017 to Boulder to attend New Vista High School where she is a sophomore.

Ruthie is a sophomore at RFHS where she edits the Opinion / News page of the student Rampage newspaper. She is writing a memoir about recently earning her black belt, and her upcoming opportunity to bring Martial Arts to children in the Himalayas. She shares an excerpt here with our readers.

When Ruthie is not writing or training, she is also a cross-country ski racer and an avid student of linguistics. Her goal: mastery of 12 languages.

We discovered Anna's unique "Happy Jumping Woman" while searching for cover art for our "Healthy" special section. Her collection of continuous line drawings helped shape our vision.

She lives in a small town outside St. Petersburg in Russia, and because of the global digital citizenship we explore elsewhere in this edition, we now have a new pen pal. "I painted my whole life from childhood until now. Drawing is my main joy in life. When I have free time for holidays, I like to travel to other countries and take photos about nature and people. Often these photos become references for my drawings."

Patti partnered with Diana Graber, (author of Raising Humans in a Digital World) to create the material featured in our Healthy Limits article.

Patti has been a Waldorf teacher for 25 years, and works locally as a student support teacher at WSRF. She has also mentored education initiatives in Nigeria and Zanzibar.

She is the mother of two grown children and grandmother of twins.

To learn more about nationally renowned Media Literacy expert Diana Graber, plan to attend her free presentation on March 11. (More details, page 59.)

Ashley is the passionate, dedicated, and playful yoga teacher who created our Healthy Expectations article. Her desire to support and empower women as they journey through pregnancy and motherhood lead her to train and specialize in Prenatal/Postnatal yoga. She is the director of Valley View Hospital's Prenatal and Postnatal yoga programs. She created Radiant Mamas retreats/ workshops, which she offers locally at Kula on Main and True Nature Healing Arts in Carbondale, and Valley View Hospital Glenwood Springs. When she is not guiding her students through nourishing asanas, she is lovingly guiding her spunky two year-old son.

Abby is the Youth Programs Manager at the Art Base in Basalt. She was born and raised in Iowa and received her BA from the University of Iowa.

Abby worked for several years at various wineries and vineyards in New Zealand and California before completing her MA in Curriculum & Instruction at the University of Denver.

She holds a Professional License from the Teacher Education Program at the University of Denver. For 6 years, Abby was a kindergarten and 1st grade teacher at Aspen Elementary School.

Corey is a local practicing attorney and writer. He loves spending time with his family and friends in the Valley and is dedicated to helping the Zurbuch Foundation provide assistance to those families in need. He shares he and his wife Saramanda's inspiration for starting the Zurbuch Foundation, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing early childhood tuition assistance to families who fall through the cracks of other childcare funding aid.

SE A SON A L

S N I PPE T S

COLD

as Ice

Ever wondered about the magic and science of ice? Start with below-freezing forecasts for at least two days. Add 60,000 gallons of water...then wait.

Ask your child to talk with their middle school science teacher to learn about the science of ice. Water molecules slow down when they are reaching a freezing point, forming a hexagonal (six-sided) crystal lattice. This pattern is repeated, forming bonds in all directions until a body of water is frozen solid. However, the surface molecules cannot form bonds on all sides; the top microscopic layer exists in a semi-frozen state that creates almost frictionless movement over ice – which is why hockey pucks and ice skates glide.

How long will it last? That’s anyone’s guess.

Find outside ice rinks in Glenwood Springs, Redstone, Carbondale and Aspen. Each town offers skate rentals, and daily (plus nightly) hours. {KC}

PHOTOS:

Above: The Gus Darien Rink in a semi-frozen state on the 6 degree morning after the pour. (credit: Derek Miller) Below: 15,000 gallons fill Carbondale’s downtown 4th Street Plaza rink.

Right: Sunset practice for Carbondale’s youth league.

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{S E A S O N A L

SNIPPETS

}

justASK

ASK – “Aspen Supports Kids” – is the new name of Aspen Valley Ski Club’s recreational program, where local children learn how to ski and snowboard in 6, 8 or 12 week group lessons. The numbers tell the story: 320 of Aspen Skiing Company’s top children’s ski and snowboard instructors.

1500+ local children (potty-trained 3.5 y.o. – grade 12) 11 programs (never-ever to Level 9+) at 3 mountains 427 need-based scholarships 385 sets of gear donated by Gorsuch and D&E 362 bus riders from GWS, Carbondale, El Jebel & Basalt “Aspen Supports Kids helps grow the excitement of skiing and snowboarding for our local athletes. ASK is committed to making our mountains accessible to all kids, all ages, all levels throughout the valley,” explains AVSC’s ASK director Meredith Elwell. “We are incredibly lucky to live in such a generous community helping make our goals and the kids dreams come true!” {KC}

PHOTO:

8-12 inches of snow fell the night before the first Saturday of AVSC’s Snowmass Snowarriors program this year. And after a day on the slopes, these local kids couldn’t get enough of the pow.

Monica Viall

The team of Crocker & Viall prides itself on values, integrity and a collaborative work ethic. Whether you are searching for your next home or simply the best place to après with friends and family, Corey and Monica can make your Roaring Fork Valley experience one you will never forget.

Corey Crocker

Monica Viall 970.319.1119

monicaviall@palladiumaspen.com

Corey Crocker 970.445.7259 corey@palladiumaspen.com

crockerandviall.com | 364 Market Street | Basalt 8

970.927.8188 palladiumaspen.com

H OM EL I FE

DIY

Chinese New Year

DRAGON ABBY GIERKE the Art Base Basalt

What comes to mind when you think of dragons?

In Chinese culture, dragons are friendly and represent wisdom.

The 2019 Chinese New Year begins on February 5 and lasts for 15 days. This holiday is based on the lunar calendar and thus changes each year. It typically arrives one moon later than the Western new year. During this time, traditional dragon dances symbolize peace, good luck and good harvest in the year ahead.

Dragons used in New Year’s dances are traditionally colorful, and are so big that they are carried by 40 – 60 or more people. The dance includes a traditional Chinese mix of art, music and Kungfu.

Although celebration of Chinese New Year may be more muted in our Valley than in China or other U.S. cities with large Chinese populations, the holiday can still be a meaningful occasion, especially for children. The heart of the matter is gathering with family and friends.

Have fun with your children making your own colorful and interactive dragon puppet during the Chinese New Year. This can open up conversations about our neighbors from other parts of the world, and even help introduce new foods as you plan your own family parade and dance in your living room!

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SUPPLIES: scissors stapler hot glue gun w/ glue sticks 2 paper plates egg carton 1 chopstick brightly colored acrylic paints white acrylic paint Sharpie or black paint pen ribbon decorative feathers tissue paper crepe paper streamers decorative paper

(i.e.: wrapping paper, scrapbook paper, or butcher paper to decorate with your child. This will be cut into two strips that are 2” wide. The length of the strips determines the length of your dragon’s torso. 18” strips = 12” torso.

The size is up to you.)

OPTIONAL:

Download a template for adding ears and horns: theartbase.org/blog Or, design, cut and paint your own, using sturdy craft paper.

ONE: Make your dragon’s head, starting with the mouth. Cut one plate in half. Fold the other plate in half.

Staple your half-plate pieces on the top and bottom of the folded plate to make a hand puppet. Now for the eyes: cut off the end of an egg carton.

Paint these pieces a bright base color and set aside to dry.

WEATHER INSURANCE: If it rains or snows bring the vehicle back within 48 hours after an Ultimate Wash and we will rewash it.

TWO: It’s time for the body. Cut your decorative paper (see supply list for details) into two strips and staple these together at right angles. Fold one strip over the other, then repeat, forming a concertina. Continue to the end, staple together and set aside.

THREE: Use hot glue or a stapler to attach your dragon’s eyes to tip of the plate head. Now paint your dragon’s eyes, nostrils, teeth, and tongue using bright colors to compliment the colors you used for your dragon’s head.

Think of different patterns you can make with warm and cool colors.

Your dragon is coming alive!

THE VALLEY’S SOURCE FOR: Car Washing Detailing Quick Lube

New Tires & Changes Express Detailing Headlight Restoration

745 BUGGY CIRCLE, CARBONDALE • (970) 963-8800 10

{D I Y:

CHINESE NEW YEAR

}

HOW DO THE PEOPLE OF CHINA CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR? J I AY I N H U

(The author’s cousin shares how her family celebrates this holiday in the Canton region of mainland China.)

FAMILIES START PREPARING EARLY. Three days before Chinese New Year is Spring Cleaning Day. We will do a deep clean for the house with everyone in the family. Two days before Chinese New Year, every family does slightly different things.

In my family, my mom uses this day to hang FAI CHUN (a traditional decoration of black Chinese lucky phrases written on red papers) around the house. New Year’s Eve, my mom will pray in the morning, and then we have a very lavish lunch at home with just our family. That evening, we have a big dinner, called a ‘reunion dinner’ with the whole family, including grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins. After dinner, we normally hang out in my grandparents’ house with everyone until midnight. The adults talk or play

Mahjong or card games and the kids play video games together, watch tv or go outside to light fireworks.

After the party that night, we go back to our house, and I help my mom to prepare red pockets (little red envelopes of money that married people give to nonmarried people in Chinese New Year). The first day of the New Year, we wake up and my parents give us red pockets. Then we all go to visit our relatives’ or neighbors’ houses. My parents bring gifts to them and red pockets for the kids. My brother and I receive red pockets from married couples. People also bring gifts and visit our house. In Canton, the lion is the focus of the dance, holding the same place of importance as the dragon. (A traditional Chinese Dragon is pictured here.)

BRING YOUR PUPPET TO LIFE by placing one hand

inside the dragon’s head and holding the chopstick with the other hand. If you made a long dragon, then parent and child can each take one end.

FEBRUARY 3 FOUR: When the paint on your puppet’s head is dry, add streamers and feathers behind the eyes and under the mouth for some flair. If you made optional ears and horns, attach them now using your stapler or glue gun.

FIVE: Staple your dragon’s body to its head. Add the chopstick to the other end of the body, using your glue gun. This is how you will make your dragon move and dance.

SIX:

Last but not least— make your dragon’s tail! You can choose to add colorful streamers, ribbon or tissue paper, which you will staple together. Attach the tail to end of body by gluing it around the chopstick.

10 AM – Noon / the Art Base Join a free monthly Crafternoon to make this Chinese New Year Puppet alongside friends, family and Art Base staff members.

FEBRUARY 5-19 2019 This Chinese New Year ushers in Year of the Pig, a symbol of good fortune and personality.

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home

HOMELIFE

Puzzled by Real Estate?

I F Y O U A R E R E A D Y A N D W I L L I N G T O B U Y, Y O U M AY B E P L E A S A N T LY S U R P R I S E D AT Y O U R A B I L I T Y T O D O S O T O D AY.

R E A L Q U E S TI O N S . R E A L A DV I C E . R E A L WO R LD E X PE R I E N C E .

SPONSORED BY COLDWELL BANKER MASON MORSE

Joy White Broker Associate 970.366.9636 | joy@masonmorse.com Joy White understands juggling the many aspects of life and acutely appreciates that the home is at the heart of all. She knows the housing market in the Roaring Fork Valley and brings that knowledge and a strong work ethic to every transaction. Joy would love to be a part of your home’s story.

Q A

BUYING A HOME THIS YEAR IS A PRIORITY FOR ME, BUT MY BUSY SCHEDULE GETS IN THE WAY. HOW DO I GET THE BALL ROLLING?

This is your year! Take those first steps. 1. Talk to a lender and get pre-qualified. 2. Armed with the knowledge of what you can afford, go see a few homes. 3. Call an experienced real estate broker that knows how to maximize your home’s value.

Having an approachable human being that understands the demands of family life on your side can make all the difference. Make sure your broker is comfortable with you bringing your kids to showings and understands that kids may be in the background while you are “chatting” on the phone or in person. “Home” goals are intimate and HUGE steps that are worth exploring this year. Take a step!

Q A

MY HUSBAND AND I ARE ACTIVELY LOOKING FOR A NEW HOME IN A DIFFERENT PART OF THE VALLEY. HOW DO I PREPARE MY CHILDREN FOR THIS MOVE?

Moving can be stressful, even when it’s a positive change.

Your children share this stress because change is rarely their idea. Here are some tips to make the transition easier: 1. Honor their loss. Understand the grieving process, and let them grieve without trying to force them to be positive.

2. Talk it out. Sharing your reasons for the move can help build their confidence. Create a timeline with dates for packing, a visit to the new location, and when they will start their new school.

3. Let them make as many choices as possible. Be it, a new bedroom paint color, toys to keep, and a name for the new home.

Finding a real estate agent who is responsible and works to create a peaceful transition will also help.

Sarah Murray Broker Associate 970.618.0109 | sarah@masonmorse.com Sarah has lived in the Roaring Fork Valley for twenty years and knows its amazing value. She is ready to help you attain your real estate goals whether you are buying, selling or looking for a great investment opportunity.

UNDER CONTRACT

Aspen | Snowmass Village Basalt | Carbondale Redstone | Glenwood Springs 800.748.2831 www.masonmorse.com

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GLENWOOD SPRINGS

CARBONDALE

Mesmerizing Sopris Views! | $995,000 | Beds 4 | Baths 4.5 Executive-style home with elegant finishes throughout and pristine views from every window. Main-level master, wrap-around decking, a huge three-car garage and walk-out basement for recreation or a mother-in-law suite.

Offered by Joy White | 970.366.9636

Satank Life | $465,000 | Beds 3 | Baths 2 This three-bedroom, two-bath home offers an open floor plan with new tile, paint and carpet inside. Beautiful garden beds and trees outside. All within a short walk to the river and bike path.

Offered by Sarah Murray | 970.618.0109

H EL PI N G

H A N DS

A friend IN NEED ...is a friend indeed After operating Honey Tree Preschool in El Jebel for several years, Saramanda Zurbuch, became acutely aware that many families at her school were struggling to afford preschool. Despite their dire need, they did not qualify for the financial assistance programs that were then available.

She learned that these families made slightly too much for public assistance, or were disqualified for some technical reason. She learned that in some instances their income levels were too high to qualify for aid, but an illness, temporary loss of work, or other personal financial setback placed preschool tuition beyond their reach. When Zurbuch reached out to other preschool owners and directors throughout the Valley, she heard many similar stories.

Having identified a need, Zurbuch was determined to find a solution for these families. She researched the assistance that was available and found that a monthly income as low as $2,233 disqualifies a single mother living in Eagle County from receiving aid through the Colorado Childcare Assistance Program (CCAP), a Statefunded preschool tuition assistance program administered at the County level. If she lived in Pitkin County, the cut off was $2708, and it was $3045 in Garfield. Considering that full time childcare costs an average of $1200$1500 per month, if you earn just above

these cut offs, you still are not likely to earn enough to pay rent, childcare, medical care, transportation, and food.

The impacts are further exacerbated because the cost of living in Garfield and Eagle County is three times the state average, and Pitkin is four times the state average.

THE ZURBUCH FOUNDATION OFFERS A CHILDC ARE SAFE T Y NE T FOR LOC AL FAMILIES

COREY ZURBUCH Founding Board Member

In fall 2017, Saramanda Zurbuch developed a vision for a local non-profit that would raise funds to be distributed to families who could not qualify for public funding but still needed help to provide preschool for their children.

The organization would serve the greater Roaring Fork Valley and provide aid quickly to those in need. Soon her vision became reality.

In November 2017, she formed The Zurbuch Foundation (ZF) as a Colorado nonprofit corporation, and was granted 501c3 tax status so that donations to the Foundation are tax deductible. It is run by an all-volunteer Board of Directors. It has no paid employees.

While ZF accepts donations throughout the year, and seeks grants from other area nonprofits, it has raised most of

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{W W W . M O U N T A I N - P A R E N T . C O M}

We’re proud to serve families in the Roaring Fork Valley and beyond!

LET US HELP YOU ACHIEVE YOUR HOMEOWNERSHIP DREAMS C O N TAC T U S TO L E A R N MOR E

RICHARD FULLER Mortgage Loan Originator | NMLS 458827 Office: 970.704.6440 | Cell: 970.618.4294 rfuller@houseloan.com www.RichardFullerCornerstone.com BRISA GARCIA Hablamos Español Loan Officer Assistant | NMLS 1700997 Office: 970.704.6440 | Fax: 866.311.6890 brisagarcia@houseloan.com 502 Main Street, Unit 11 | Carbondale, Colorado 81623 Not a commitment to lend. Borrower must meet qualification criteria. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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its funds from two events. In May 2018, the Foundation hosted a Kentucky Derby Party with a silent auction at a private ranch in Missouri Heights. In this inaugural event, the Foundation raised over $22,000 in donations. The Foundation held a second event, an Oktoberfest Party, at Restaurant 7908 in Aspen and raised over $15,000 in donations, exceeding its goals.

The Foundation plans to repeat each of these events in 2019 to raise even more funds for area families. All in all, the Foundation raised over $46,000 in 2018. Due to its volunteer board and very low overhead was able to distribute 85% of those funds to families in need throughout the Valley.

A monthly income of $2,233 disqualifies a single mother living in EAGLE COUNTY from receiving CCAP funding for early childhood tuition.

PITKIN COUNTY = $2708 GARFIELD COUNTY = $3045 Valley-wide full time CHILDCARE =$1200-$1500 per month.

Meanwhile, the local COST OF LIVING = 3-4 times the state average.

This leaves little for rent, food, medical care, transportation or other expenses.

In its first full year, the Foundation developed relationships with owners and directors of preschools from Aspen to Parachute, and works with them to identify families in need. When considering applicants and their needs, the Foundation takes into consideration the family’s access to funds from other organizations, such as Kids First, which provides funds for Pitkin County workers and residents; and the Town of Basalt which provides aid to support children attending schools in the greater Basalt area. The Foundation recognizes the value of these and other assistance programs and aims to be complementary to their efforts and to assist when their aid is not enough.

Each Board member takes responsibility for contacting the award recipients to give them the good news. By doing this, each member sees the results first hand and is motivated to work even harder.

“Childcare in this valley is a tricky beast,” says ZF Board Member Michaela Idhammar Ketpura of Carbondale. “There are many quality daycare and preschool options, but often families can’t put their kids into these programs because of a lack of space or a lack of funds. I see the costs of childcare first hand with my 2 year-old. Families need to work, and they need to know their kids are in a safe place, learning and being cared for. It makes my heart happy that we can help families by providing assistance during this crucial time in brain development.”

The families’ stories are humbling and heartbreaking. Here are a few: A father was taking care of his two young children while their mother was in rehab.

Before moving to the Valley to find work, he lived in his car in Denver. He didn’t qualify for CCAP because he couldn’t provide pay stubs. He was working and enrolled his youngest child in preschool, but due to financial stresses, he became six months behind in tuition. Removing his child from preschool was not an option because the father needed to work. Preschool also provided a stable, consistent environment for the child. ZF helped the father pay his past-due tuition and provided monthly assistance thereafter.

A single mother escaped a domestic abuse situation which forced to her to relocate here from another state. She was denied CCAP due to not having her child’s birth certificate.

So ZF helped her with preschool tuition until she secured the correct documentation to receive CCAP funding.

A single father was receiving CCAP funding, but when he received a small raise bumping him over the limit by $20 per month, he was disqualified for Statefunded assistance.

These are but a few examples of the families that the Zurbuch Foundation has helped and aims to help in the future. The preschool years go by quickly, the Foundation’s Board knows that it is important that we do what we can – as soon as we can – to help these families.

your child's education

the most important journey of all

excellence in academics

arts Applications welcome year round.

For priority consideration, please apply by February 15 for the coming school year.

see for yourself! schedule a tour today. www.aspencountryday.org/visit

outdoor education

15

+ health + WELLNESS

Mountain Family Health Centers

CUTTING EDGEcare

M O U N TA I N FA M I LY H E A LT H C E N T E R S C E L E B R AT E S T H E G R A N D O PE N I N G O F I T S N E W I N T E G R AT E D H E A LT H C E N T E R I N B A S A LT O F F E R I N G M E D I C A L , D E N TA L A N D B E H AV I O R A L C A R E U N D E R O N E RO O F.

sponsored content cour tesy of

MOUNTAIN FAMILY HEALTH CENTERS

Basalt

One might not think that a community health center would be at the forefront of medical and behavioral health integration, but it’s true. Mountain Family Health Centers has four clinic locations in Edwards, Glenwood Springs, Rifle and of course our newest renovated and updated clinic in Basalt. Mountain Family Health Centers (MFHC) treats the indigent and the wealthy, the old and the young, the insured and the underinsured, and even folks without any insurance at all. MFHC believes that the mind and body are connected and the best way to treat our patients is to treat the whole person, regardless of the ability to pay.

This wholistic approach often yields the best possible medical outcomes for our patients.

MOUNTAIN FAMILY HEALTH CENTERS ARE AT THE CUTTING EDGE OF HEALTHCARE.

16

Grand Opening

With a behavioral health staff made up of ten licensed behavioral health clinicians, one psychiatric nurse practitioner and several support staff, the MFHC integrated care model is running at full-steam. Our behavioral health staff comes from many different disciplines and cultures. The entire behavioral health staff can treat post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, and we also focus heavily on substance use disorder treatment. Several of our licensed clinicians are fluent in Spanish and we have a Spanish translator in each clinic. Our team can also help with couple’s issues, family problems and children’s challenges.

events that had plagued her for many years.

Today, Carol lives a much healthier life. She no longer feels the need to drink as much alcohol as she was before, and she even stopped smoking!

Carol was stuck in her unresolved trauma which was making her mental health symptoms worsen, which lead to increased medical issues such as chronic pain and insomnia. Carol has her life back now and reports living a life that she could never dream of just one year ago. Her medical complaints have dissipated, and she no longer feels the need for therapy and comes to the clinic now for what mainly amounts to basic biannual medical check-ups.

Carol came in to MFHC for help with her anxiety and depression. After meeting with her primary care provider, she was referred to the behavioral health team. The clinician diagnosed Carol with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and began helping Carol resolve the past traumatic

IT’S OK TO TALK ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH.

If you, or someone you know, is dealing with a problem that may need a team of highly trained medical and behavioral health specialists, give Mountain Family Health an opportunity to help.

MOUNTAIN FAMILY HEALTH CENTERS 123 Emma Rd. Basalt, CO 81621 970-945-2840 contact@mountainfamily.org mountainfamily.org NOW OPEN: Mountain Family Health Centers Basalt Integrated Health Center

Oyen Hoffman, MA, LMFT, LAC, MAC

Clinical Specialist & Substance Use Services Supervisor

Mountain Family Health Centers

MFHC Providers E m i l y B o r k o v e c & Tr a c i e M c K i n l e y

H a r r y Te a g u e Nan Sundeen

E x c i t e d M F H C Te a m M e m b e r s

Rob Stein Jon Fox Rubin

A l e x a n d r a Ya j k o - R o g e r S h e f f i e l d

- Susie Davis

Dave Ressler Karen Koenemann

K E Y CO M M U N I T Y PA R T N E R S A N D S U PP O R T E R S G AT H E R E D O N JA N UA RY 7TH FOR THE GRAND OPENING OF M O U N TA I N F A M I LY H E A LT H C E N T E R S ’ N E W I N T E G R AT E D H E A LT H C E N T E R I N B A S A LT O F F E R I N G S TAT E - O F T H E - A R T M E D I C A L , D E N TA L A N D BE H AV IOR A L C A RE UNDE R ONE R O O F. T H A N K YO U T O E V E R YO N E WHO MADE THIS POSSIBLE.

Ross Brooks, CEO, Mount ain Family Mike Kaplan, President & CEO Aspen Skiing Company

Community Leaders Gather in Basalt

A RO U N D

T H E TA B LE

Valentine GIRLCOTT

AN ACT OF DISSIDENCE WITH WINE & DARK CHOCOLATE

K AT H RY N C A M P recipe by: S U Z A N N E K E AT I N G

wine pairings by: PAU L A E AT O N Scout & Cellar

It was 2006. We weren’t looking to start a movement. We only wanted a meaningful conversation about the world our children might inherit. And a night out. Amanda Brooke, Ayana Pevec Brown and I: three mothers with five toddlers between us and two more on-theway. Pushing swings at Sopris Park, we planned a benefit for the Boulder-based nonprofit Mothers Acting Up. We booked the Thunder River Theatre for a one-woman show called The Motherload, a comic treatise on all the things we mothers carry, and billed it as “Mom’s Night Out.” We needed chocolate. Lots and lots of chocolate. Plus (for those who were NOT wearing maternity-chique) we needed wine.

ONE PROBLEM –

As if there could ever be a problem with gathering a bunch of women and offering bubbly, a chocolate fountain, and outstanding feminist comedy – was that everyone wanted to know what we’d do next. We never planned that there would BE a next – two of the three organizers, after all, were hugely expectant.

However, our shared wish to make a difference, to take up global issues on a local level – this need was growing, just as our kids were growing. For ideas, we turned to the beneficiary of our event – Mothers Acting Up (MAU), a “mother-led, mother-fed movement of mothers and others passionately and publicly advocating for the world’s children.” The nationwide 501c3 was started by a group of mothers that included Carbondale native, Juliana Forbes.

One MAU concept that particularly resonated with us was the “girlcott.” Unlike a boycott, which withholds support for companies that one disagrees with, a girlcott embraces those with shared values. We decided to plan a girlcott celebrating fair-trade organic chocolate. Lots and lots of it – thirty pounds in fact.

For Valentine’s Day, we made, packaged and sold 100 dozen hand-rolled dark chocolate truffles.

Charlie and Andie Chacos welcomed us to set up shop in the Village Smithy kitchen after closing-time, where a dozen-or-so women scooped, rolled, and coated well over 1,200 pieces of organic chocolate nirvana.

We conducted an actual meeting, complete with an agenda, while immersed in chocolate. We decided to allocate funds for supporting community foodshed efforts including the soon-to-be-built RFHS greenhouse. We set aside funds for the following year’s truffle-palooza, and then we got around to the real business at hand – drinking wine.

12 18

I cannot list here everyone involved, though I’ll note that Illène Pevec, Pixie Byrne and Tessa Munson stayed up with us until 3 AM, until every recycled kraft-paper box of chocolate was tied with a bow.

We kept this tradition going for two more years.

During this time, we spread our funds around to a handful of small projects. We paid for collective childcare while mothers registered voters and worked the field office on election day ‘08. We donated to a community garden in inner-city Sao Paulo, Brazil.

We paid for local women to participate in advocacy training with MAU. And, arguably our most lasting contribution – we showed our children what it looks like to roll up your sleeves and (literally) sink your hands down into something positive – as a form of protest, as a means of raising one’s voice.

The end of our smaller-than-grassroots effort came about as organically as it began – our lives changed.

We gathered around Pixie’s dining room table (again with chocolate and wine) and we decided to let it go so we could focus on other causes, careers, art, healing, and our families.

MAU-style advocacy has stayed with me, which is why I am delighted to introduce you to Paula Eaton of Scout & Cellar. If there’s ever a company to girlcott, it’s this one. S&C builds relationships with high-integrity wine makers from around the world.

They offer clean-crafted, organic, biodynamic and fair trade wines from small, human-scale vineyards at prices that are remarkably approachable.

Paula Eaton will even help you host your next Mom’s Night Out. Gather a handful of your girlfriends, and Paula will plan a tasting to suit your menu, budget and curiosity. If only I’d known back then that making a difference could be – um– quite a bit less hands on. Mama might have acted up more often!

INGREDIENTS: Truffle Ganache: 2 cups whipping cream 2# 2 oz dark chocolate 3 oz butter 3 oz sugar Coatings: cocoa powder ground espresso cinnamon + sugar to taste ground pistachios 6 oz chocolate 1 oz butter Small, paper candy cups

e W I N E A S N AT U R E I N T E N D E D

For a wine to be considered Clean-Crafted, it must satisfy the following guidelines: grown without synthetic pesticides sustainable, organic &/ or biodynamic tended by actual people vinified by hand zero grams of added sugar zero added chemicals slow crafted naturally occurring antioxidants low sulfites independently lab tested

PAU L A E AT O N ’ S PA I R I N G S: NV Punkt Genau Gruber Sparkling White, Austria Finely textured bubbles with bright acidity.

Organic, vegan, fruity, crisp, delicious ($28) 2017 The Resident Zinfandel Mendocino County, California Fruit from three CCOF-certified vineyards with 20-30 year-old vines. Hand harvested, crushed, destemmed and fermented slowly in stainless steel tanks. ($25)

DIRECTIONS: 1. Bring cream and sugar to a boil.

2. Remove from heat. Whisk in

chocolate and butter until smooth.

3. Pour into a stainless bowl.

4. Cool to room temperature.

5. Use a melon scooper to form generous,

uniformly-sized balls of chocolate. A butter knife is helpful for removing balls from the scooper. They do not need to be perfectly round. Place chocolate balls on a parchement-lined baking sheet. Cool.

6. Rolled Truffles are the easiest method.

Place each coating (cocoa, espresso, cinnamon-sugar and ground pistachios) into separate bowls. Wearing food-safe surgical gloves, roll each ball of chocolate until it is smooth and uniform. Then carefully roll it in the coating of your choice until it is covered.

7. Classic Dipped Truffles take some

patience, but the effort is delicious. Melt chocolate and butter in a stainless bowl over a double-boiler. When melted smooth, use a fork to gently guide the truffle around the chocolate until it is coated.

8. Place each truffle in a paper candy cup.

Store at room temperature until serving.

2017 Fieldhouse Cabernet Sauvignon Mendocino County, California Certified organic for over 20 years, owned by same family for 50 years, hand-picked on September 21, 2017 into half ton bins. Then, it was transferred into stainless steel tanks for a long, slow fermentation ($32)

PAU L A E AT O N I N D E P E N D E N T W I N E C O N S U LTA N T

(970) 948-3197

e www.ScoutAndCellar.com/paulaeaton

13 19

MOUNTAINPARENT FEATURE

School Rules parent-to-parent “scholarly” advice

from mothers and fathers throughout our community: “How to make the grade while parenting from before pre-K through graduation.”

HOLLY RICHARDSON

Parent & Child Teacher: WSRF & YMHS Parent: WSRF & RFHS

“FROM THE

BEGINNING,

I have told my children and my students that everyone has challenges. Regardless of your ability or your disability, it is the energy that you put into your learning that builds character and makes all the difference. ” PATRICK SIEDERS

Teacher: BHS Parent: AHS & CMS

“ON THE

SIDELINE

Please remember: These are kids.

This is a game.

The coaches are volunteers.

The referees are human.

And YOUR CHILDREN ARE WATCHING YOU.” GLENWOOD SPRINGS PARKS & RECREATION

As posted at the Sopris Elementary School baseball field

“SEE FOR YOURSELF!

As parents search for a school where their children will thrive, it’s so valuable to really get inside the school -- visit classrooms, meet teachers, and experience the program, either with or without your child along. We are lucky to have many different types of schools in our Valley, with different approaches. By exploring many options and prioritizing your family’s educational goals, you can make an informed decision on what is best for your child.”

LEARNING.

to find your parenting circle. As a young mom at home with my two boys, I felt extremely isolated, often at my wits’ end. I eventually found a group of neighborhood parents with tots and babes. These families became my lifeline to sanity, and I will be forever grateful for their support and friendship. Now I teach parent-child classes because I see how parents connect, laugh, and learn in community. I feel it in my bones that parents are not meant to be raising children in isolation. The key is finding the support and connection you need through programs that fit your schedule and budget.”

NEVER STOP

“DON’T WAIT UNTIL PRESCHOOL

SUSAN GLAH Director of Admissions: Aspen Country Day School Parent: ACDS

Make lots of new friends.

Pay Attention “We have two ears and one tongue so that we would listen more and talk less.”

DIOGENES Greek Philosopher, 412-312 BC “father” of the Cynics

20

for

Grown Ups

STAY IN THE KNOW Upcoming Enrollment Open Houses and Deadlines Aspen Community School

Open houses Feb 21, 27, March 5, 20, April 3 Submit lottery applications by April 5 (970) 923-4080

Aspen Country Day School

Apply by February 15 for April notification of admission.

(970) 925-1909

Aspen School District

Open enrollment for district-eligible students.

(970) 925-3760

Carbondale Community School Lottery application deadline: March 21 (970) 963-9647

Cornerstone Classical Academy

Tours and application information this spring.

(970) 927-9106

“ROOT FOR YOUR HOME TEAM.

I grew up going to Rams games with my parents, watching the older kids, aspiring to play like them, hoping to carry on the winning tradition, planning to one day play as well as they did. That said, it’s important for high school kids to carry themselves on and off the field with an awareness that they’re setting an example for younger kids. I followed sports in every season, and I loved playing all the way through school. This gave me a deep connection to home, and it’s something my wife Cara and I are continuing for our son.”

PA R K E R N I E S L A N I K

RFHS class of 2006 future Rams parent

CRMS

Application deadline: February 1 (970) 963-2562

St. Stephens Catholic School “Tour Tuesdays” in February.

(970) 945-7746

Two Rivers Community School Lottery application deadline: April 3.

(970) 384-5200

Waldorf School on the Roaring Fork

PreK & K Open Houses: February 12; March 2 – 9 AM (970) 963-1960

Start with a good, durable lunchbox with compartments to keep things separate, to avoid single-serve plastic bags. Next, if your school serves lunch, try letting your child pick their favorite menu items, so can plan your ‘days off.’ Then, when you’re packing, be sure to include at least one thing your child really likes, so you know she will actually eat. In the classroom, you can always recognize the children who don’t eat their lunch – they have a hard time paying attention and participating.”

YOU A RE YOUR CHILD’S FIR S T

Ross Montessori School

Lottery application deadline: April 5 (970) 963-7199

“PACKING LUNCH

RAHIMA BALDWIN Colorado parent, teacher, and author a book by this title

Roaring Fork Schools

Kindergarten / Early Childhood Tours and information nights occurring February - April Registration day: April 5 Grades 1 - 12 General registration deadline: March 20.

(970) 384-6000

Carpool

TEACHER.

Marble Charter School

Public charter school. Bus from Carbondale.

Contact for tours and enrollment.

(970) 963-9550

JOYCELYN SPENCER Para Teacher: GWHS Parent: Sopris Elementary School

21

www. MOUNTAIN-PARENT.com

“ABOUT ADVOCATING

for your child – by the time kids reach high school, we want them to start developing tools for advocating for themselves, and we parents begin teaching this important life skill when we lead by example. I think about this when I advocate for my own kids; it’s not just about them, it’s about ALL of the children. “

“IF A PROBLEM ARISES,

first ask if someone is in immediate danger or if the situation is time-sensitive. If not, take 24 hours for reflection and cooling off before taking up the issue. As with all communication: seek to understand. Communicate openly, honestly, and authentically. Avoid/discourage gossip as a means of gathering information. Actively seek common ground. When emotions are running high, minimize technology as a communication method.”

JIM GILCHRIST Principal: Aspen Community School parent: ACS alumni

BRETT STRINGER Principal: Roaring Fork High School Parent: CRES and CMS

to attend back-to-school nights, parent-teacher conferences and college counseling opportunities.

Teachers and administrators work hard to present this information, so showing up supports their work.

These nights give you a chance to ask questions, so you can find out how to best support your child. You also get a chance to meet the parents of your child’s friends and classmates. It’s easy to think that you’ve ‘already graduated’ from parents’ nights after your first child has gone all the way through, but every school year brings something new. “ LISA McGUIRE Teacher: Aspen Elementary School parent: AHS & CU Boulder

THIS TOO SHALL PA SS

“MAKE EVERY EFFORT

“DON’T BE AFRAID OF

B’s or C’s in AP classes.

Colleges prefer to see students challenging themselves, taking the hardest courses offered, rather than making A’s in easy classes. Also, start early with foreign languages – most colleges require two full years, while selective schools require four. And test prep for the SATs can make a huge difference.”

C A R O LY N W I L L I A M S College Consultant CMS and CRMS parent

“PRIORITIES,

So many parents are focused on college -- finding the right one and paying for it. But the elementary and middle school years are actually even more important, because this is when children form essential habits and a solid academic foundation for high school and college. These early years are the best time to nurture and foster their innate curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.”

SHELLEY GILL MEISLER Kindergarten Teacher: ACDS Parent: ACDS alumni; CRMS & CU Boulder

“SENDING THEM OFF...

Whether we’re packing our children up for their first day of preschool or packing them for college, we parents can teach them how to be courageous, how to grow, and find their path by being courageous ourselves. Eventhough our hearts are wishing to hold them with us, we must constantly, actively engage in this process in a healthy way, aware that we are letting our children go, by degrees, at many signifcant transitions. Each time, we want to send them in freedom, so that they can discover who they are. “ SUMMER THOMAS SOL Theatre Parent: WSRF alumni, RFHS; Bridges and BHS alumni

22

A G B R N I I D D L G I E U B MOUNTAINPARENT FEATURE

ING FAMILY C T A G I V A ONF N E L I LIC H T W A RESTORATIVE WAY TO CREATE CONNECTION DR. WILLIAM A. BLEDSOE Carbondale

CONFLICT IS STRESSFUL. Family conflict even more so because we have an emotional investment in each other. A simple disagreement can escalate into an argument, and an argument into a screaming match. When our children fight with us or each other, it’s easy to blame ourselves. Take heart. Family conflict is inevitable. But it’s also an opportunity for deeper engagement and understanding, and a chance to teach our children how to process their emotions, develop empathy and take responsibility.

WHY PATTERNS ARE SO HARD TO BREAK

Family patterns of interaction during conflict can be difficult to break because they become hard-wired in our brains. If our experience of conflict is hurtful, we develop unconscious strategies meant to protect us. Harsh treatment and words activate the most primal part of our brain, the amygdala, which controls our response to fear. We get triggered and off goes the alarm switch to our nervous system and our survival “fight/flight/freeze” impulse takes over. The pre-frontal cortex (rational executive brain) is not fully developed in teens, and so they need us to help them regulate and understand their emotions.

Our children are looking to us to learn how to talk about and interpret what’s happening. They need our perspective, language and narrative.

Replacing old and unconstructive ways of managing conflict requires two things. First, we have to make the commitment to do it differently.

Frustration is a good motivator! Second, we need a “go to method” that we consistently use to process any conflict.

CONSISTENCY FOSTERS PREDICTABILITY AND REDUCES ANXIETY

As a parent, taking the time to process a conflict situation can be challenging. It’s easier to be directive and just tell our children what they need to do (i.e. “you need to apologize.”) When we’re directive, we assume the role of “fixer,” losing the opportunity to teach our children how to work through conflict. Let’s shift our “parent peacemaker” role from director to facilitator.

THE RESTORATIVE WAY IS IN OUR DNA

The restorative approach to conflict is not new. In fact, it’s ancient.

Scholars tell us it predates western civilization and punitive responses.

When human beings lived primarily in small clan units and/or tribes, the survival of the clan depended upon cooperation and the contribution of each member. Restoring relationship harmony between members in conflict was a matter of survival. Today this perennial wisdom of how to resolve conflict is finding its way back into our justice systems, schools, workplaces and families.

23

MOUNTAIN PARENT &

It is a way of communicating with each other when we experience conflict. Restoration is not touchy-feely magic. It’s DR. WILLIAM BLEDSOE about engaging in a purposeful and structured conversation INVITE PARENTS TO when we’re at odds or when a A RESTORATIVE WAY conflict has become destructive.

WORKSHOP The process itself is simple and straightforward. However, BRING THESE PRACTICES simple doesn’t necessarily mean INTO YOUR HOME TO CHANGE HOW YOUR FAMILY easy. Because we’re dealing with WORKS WITH CONFLICT family dynamics, psychology, conflict, often intense emotions, and some real needs that WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13 may have been ignored or 7 – 9 PM neglected, it takes practice and THIRD STREET CENTER refinement. This refinement CARBONDALE involves observing, listening, acknowledging feelings, and LIMITED SPACE. SIGN UP: responding in an empathetically RESTORATIVEWAY.COM attuned way. As I wrote about attachment styles in the second article in this series, restorative communication during conflict is about looking for what’s underneath any conflict to discover why it’s happening and what people are needing.

FIRST THINGS FIRST – BREATHE!

When a disagreement turns into an argument that escalates into a fight, our heart rate increases, adrenalin floods our nervous system, and we’re thrown off balance. The first act of the Restorative Approach is to restore your own emotional and nervous system equilibrium. As a

parent, you have the right to take care of yourself first before stepping into the fire as a peacemaker. Center yourself. Breathe. While you may have to immediately intervene and separate the “warring parties” (including yourself) to keep it from escalating, you have the authority to say, “Time out! We will work through this together once we chill out.”

Scholars tell us the first 3 minutes of a conflict are the most crucial for halting escalation. I think it’s the first 30 seconds and maybe less.

Schedule a time to reconvene.

ONE-ON-ONE & GROUP DISCUSSIONS

There are two “places” to use this process. The first is in a one-onone discussion with an individual child/teen when something has happened. In this dialogue we’re helping them process their thinking, feelings and needs with respect to what happened during the conflict.

We’re also helping them to recognize the same in others.

The second is in a group discussion that we facilitate between two (or more) children/teens. Here’s a disclaimer: there’s going to be resistance because it’s new, and it requires kids and teens to actually talk to you and each other about what’s happening, their feelings, and how it’s impacting everyone. It can be challenging to put this process in place as “the way we as a family move through conflict.” Here’s the good news – with regularity it will become easier for people to open up. They’ll come to trust the process and so will you.

AN ART & A SKILL

Learning how to facilitate a discussion is like learning to play a musical instrument. The more you play, the better it sounds, and it helps to take a few lessons. When I train teachers, I encourage parents to participate in the workshops as well. This benefits children and teens because they experience consistency between how conflict and misconduct are handled at school, and how they are handled at home.

Beauty. Warmth. Safety.

SAFETY CHECKS TO DO: • Supervise youngsters at all times when a fire is lit.

• Remove all fireplace tools, wood, matches and newspapers.

• Remind children to stay a safe distance away from the hearth.

• Consider a screen, hearthgate or cool touch glass.

• Test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors regularly.

970-963-3598 • www.thefpco.com 935 Cowen Drive, Carbondale, Colorado 24

THE BASIC PROCESS: 4 QUESTIONS AND A PIECE OF PIE

The basic Restorative Process involves 4 questions designed to help people slow down and process their experience, perceptions and feelings in an organized and sequential way. It helps if you can sit in a circle. This is the way it’s been done for thousands of years. A circle signifies that we’re in this together, we all have an important contribution, and we’re about to have an important discussion. The more you use the circle, the more meaningful it will become. It works in schools; it works in families.

I don’t prefer tables because they can be like barriers keeping us from being vulnerable and open to each other. Also in a group discussion, there needs to be some ground rules around turn-taking, not interrupting, and using “I” statements rather than blaming. A talking stick works wonders.

Kids like it. Teens eventually will.

Q.

ONE: CAN YOU TELL ME WHAT HAPPENED?

When we experience an upsetting incident, we need to tell our story.

This is especially true if we feel/believe we’ve been treated unfairly.

This is a developmental moment for children and teens. It helps them learn how to talk about their experience. When we patiently listen without judgement (not easy to do), we communicate the message “You matter and what happened to you matters.” It’s a moment of empathic connection and trust-building between parent and child/teen. As a parent, this question helps us get a picture of the issue, and begin to understand the impact. We start to see what our children need to restore harmony.

“I CAN SEE THAT THIS WAS FRUSTRATING.” “I CAN SEE HOW THIS WOULD BE UPSETTING.” “SOUNDS LIKE THIS WAS REALLY TOUGH.” Notice how empathic statements help soothe the person who feels wronged, and then how their nervous system will relax.

Each child is going to have their own version of what happened. Don’t focus too much establishing a set of absolute facts. If we make this our primary objective it can come across as punitive and accusatory and cause “your client” to shut down. If the story doesn’t ring true, you can ask questions to clarify such as:

“I’M CURIOUS, DID ~~~ HAPPEN?” “IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE THAT HAPPENED THAT YOU CAN SHARE?” “I’M CONFUSED, CAN YOU HELP ME UNDERSTAND IF ~~~ MIGHT’VE HAPPENED TOO?” If they become defensive, this keeps them in their heads and away from their heart – where the real change is going to happen. What we’re really trying to do is enable them to feel safe to tell the truth. It’s been my experience that over time, once kids/teens trust that we’re not using their story against them to criticize, judge, or justify punishment, they’ll be more willing to be honest. The change we’re looking for is their recognition of how their actions have impacted others.

Q.

TWO: HOW WERE YOU AND OTHERS IMPACTED?

I think this question is the most important in the Restorative Process. It shifts us from our heads to our hearts. The question of emotional impact is too often overlooked in conventional conflict resolution methods. Yet it holds the key to activating healthy remorse and empathy, which in turn, shifts people from self-interest into concern for others. If people don’t have the opportunity to express their feelings, then authentic willingness to restore harmony and to reconcile will remain incomplete. Those hurt feelings and the beliefs attached to them will resurface the next time there is a conflict. This is how patterns develop.

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“THE HEART

{ MOUNTAINPARENT FEATURE }

IS WHERE REAL CHANGE IS GOING TO HAPPEN. WHAT WE’RE REALLY TRYING TO DO IS ENABLE OUR KIDS TO FEEL SAFE TELLING THE TRUTH. OVER TIME, ONCE TEENS TRUST THAT WE’RE NOT USING THEIR STORY AGAINST THEM TO CRITICIZE, JUDGE OR JUSTIFY PUNISHMENT, THEY’LL BE MORE WILLING TO BE HONEST. THE CHANGE WE’RE LOOKING FOR IS THEIR RECOGNITION OF HOW THEIR ACTIONS HAVE IMPACTED OTHERS.”

“I CAN SEE HOW YOU WOULD FEEL THIS WAY.” “IT’S UNDERSTANDABLE THAT YOU WOULD FEEL HURT.” “I CAN SEE HOW UPSETTING THIS IS.” “I MIGHT FEEL THAT WAY TOO.” As parent/facilitator, this is your opportunity to validate feelings. In as much as children and teens need to talk about how the conflict impacted them, they also need to hear how the conflict impacted the other person or persons. In this moment of the conversation, it’s typically the case where authentic/healthy remorse and a desire to repair emerges. Since as a facilitator you have moved through this discussion with a compassionate demeanor, you have established a safe space for your children to feel compassion for each other. (Ideally!)

In a group dialogue, after you’ve discussed impact, you might complete this step by commenting:

DR. WILLIAM A. BLEDSOE

Q.

“IF SUZIE’S DOOR IS CLOSED, HOW DO WE RESPECT HER RIGHT TO PRIVACY?” “IF JUSTIN HAS FRIENDS OVER, WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE TO RESPECT HIS TIME WITH HIS FRIENDS?” “IF ONE OF US GETS REALLY UPSET ABOUT SOMETHING, WHAT DO WE NEED TO DO KEEP FROM BEING HURTFUL?”

“I CAN SEE THAT WHAT HAPPENED HURT ALL OF US.” “THIS IS HOW THE CONFLICT IMPACTED ME ~~~.”

“IT HURTS ME TO SEE HOW THIS HAS HURT YOU.” “I’D LIKE TO SEE IF THERE’S A WAY WE CAN REPAIR WHAT HAPPENED.” Developmentally, this discussion is helping children/teens learn how to identify, express, and process their emotions in a constructive way.

Simultaneously, because you’ve modeled validation, you’re teaching them to honor the other person’s feelings as well.

Q.

THREE: WHAT DO YOU/WE NEED?

Feelings are signs of needs – either met, or unmet. My training partner Kerri Quinn likes to say, “needs are non-negotiable,” and I think there’s great wisdom in this. Basic relational needs that we all share have to do with how we are treated by others. These needs can get neglected when we’re in the throes of an argument. We have a need for physical and emotional safety, respect for our boundaries, the right to have our feelings, the right to express how we feel and…what we need!

When disagreements escalate into arguments and destructive conflict, it’s usually because people’s needs are being ignored or trampled. This discussion is your opportunity to help children discover and express what they need now, and perhaps what they were needing when the argument started. They also learn about other’s needs. Strong emotions can be interpreted as “signals” that a need was not being met. These feelings have been expressed. You can now move into a discussion about needs that exist “under the feelings.”

For example, anger can be a sign that our boundaries have been violated. Therefore, we have a need for our boundary to be respected.

As a facilitator, you can ask exploratory questions such as:

“I’M WONDERING IF WHAT YOU ARE/WERE NEEDING IS TO HAVE YOUR PERSONAL SPACE RESPECTED?”

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Fear is a sign that we need to feel safe. Feeling excluded is a signal that we need to feel included etc. Attention and acknowledgment are needs that might exist underneath aggressive behavior. This discussion is an opportunity to help children and teens connect their feelings with their needs. By asking questions, we can help them identify what they needed when the conflict happened and what they need moving forward. We can then identify what we need and what the family needs to keep the peace in the future. This is also an opportune moment to express that “we all need to be able to resolve our conflicts in a healthy way that preserves our relationships.”

FOUR: WHAT’S OUR AGREEMENT?

Making an agreement is about taking ownership for making things right.

As the facilitator, you can ask, “What do you think we can do to keep this from happening again?” If they’re stumped, you might suggest:

As parents, we may know what needs to happen, but we need to facilitate our children’s discovery and their ability to name what needs to happen. When we allow them to do this, we give them the opportunity to take ownership and this can be empowering. It teaches them that we all make mistakes. We can rectify our mistakes by taking responsibility for repair, and reparation is an honorable thing to do.

Making amends is a character builder.

AN EFFECTIVE AMENDS HAS THREE COMPONENTS: We acknowledge: “I SEE THAT WHAT I DID WAS DISRESPECTFUL.” We express remorse: “I’M SORRY THAT I CAUSED YOU THIS PAIN.” We repair: “WHAT CAN I DO TO MAKE THINGS RIGHT?” Often, a sincere apology is enough (in ‘low impact’ conflicts). In conflicts that are repetitive and particularly hurtful, we need to put agreements in place to prevent the conflict from blowing up into another war.

Inevitably, agreements will be broken. But one of the agreements you can make is that if an agreement is broken…you assemble in a circle and go through the Restorative Process to address what happened, how breaking the agreement impacted everyone, what everyone now needs, and what we can re-commit to moving forward.

Too often we blow through a conflict without taking the time to use it as a profound moment of social-emotional development. This is true for all of us, not just our children. I think we’re all in various stages of social-emotional evolution. Teaching our children how to do conflict constructively lays a foundation for their future relationship health.

For parents, the restorative process is simply a tool. It breaks down the chaos of conflict into bite sized chunks of conversation.

PIE

Who doesn’t love a piece of pie? Ice cream works too. It’s important to acknowledge the work everyone’s completed during the process.

I think pie is restorative. Nothing is better than celebrating family conflict resolution than a good slice of restorative pie.

ST ZE,

MOUNTAINPARENT 2019 cover artists Lily & Elana Royer

Hope.

Paper.

Scissors.

This year, we are showcasing Elana and Lily Royer, a mother-daughter creative team whose whimsical collages are earning a loyal following.

Their Lilybart greeting cards bring joyful creativity into Lily’s lifelong fight with Cystic Fibrosis, while raising awareness and funds for alternative care .

Each piece of art begins at their dining room table in Aspen with a stack of recycled magazines and two pairs of scissors. Yet the beginning goes back to the Royer Family’s early days of deciding to live fully while living with a chronic disease.

We asked Lily and Elana to tell us about their journey, from Lily’s early diagnosis to the eventual launch of their now thriving nationwide business.

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“I often think of

Maya Angelou’s words: ‘Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away. ‘ Lily Royer

“

Lily:

Just before my first birthday, I was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis.

My parents say I learned how to walk by pushing my I.V. pole up and down the hall of the Columbia University pulmonary ward in New York City. They became quick experts on keeping me healthy, sterilizing equipment, administering inhaled steroids and other medications. Three times a day, they held me upside down, as my doctors had shown them, firmly patting my chest and back to clear my lungs.

An early memory, age three: a large blue vest arrived. It hooked to a machine with tubes and wires, designed to provide better chest vibration than my parents could do with manual therapies. But I was scared of the machine, so my big sister Avery wore it first to show me how it worked. Our cat Maxwell understood, and so if he heard the sound of the machine, he came running and sat on my lap while I did my therapy.

My brother Kip was born when I was two years old, and before long people assumed we were twins. This wasn’t just because he quickly surpassed my size, but also because we always seemed to especially understand one another. He intuitively knew what I needed, a water or a blanket, and he always knew how to make me laugh. Then came our youngest brother William, forever ready for adventure.

PHOTOS

(counter-clockwise) 1. Lily and Elana Royer upon arriving on the island of Kauai for Lily’s ‘Make-A-Wish’ trip. 2. Lily, age 9, wearing the vibrating pulmonary vest that she uses at least twice a day to keep her lungs clear. 3. The Royer Family’s 2018 Christmas portrait; L-R: Avery, Elana, Chris, Lily, William, Kip and Max (credit: Michele Cardamone) (previous page) 1. Lily and Elana Royer in Rome while traveling in Italy. 2. Lily, age 10, riding Blaze at the Royer Ranch. 3. Lilybart publicity photo (credit: Michele Cardamone)

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In 2009, my parents moved our family from New Jersey to my grandmother Judy Royer’s ranch in Old Snowmass. (We later moved to Aspen.) My parents hoped that the clean air and active mountain lifestyle would give me an advantage over my CF. They were right. Being active is part of the CF wellness protocol. Here I spend most of my free time outdoors – skiing, horseback riding, water skiing, surfing, boxing, playing lacrosse and field hockey. Exercise allows air to move deeply down into the bronchioles of my lungs which are scarred and clogged from years battling CF.

Salt water helps break down mucus. It restores balance and acts as a natural lubricant, allowing the lining of the lungs, bronchus and bronchioles to stay moist. So my parents take us to Shelter Island for the summer.

“We’ll find a way to do it!” is what my father Chris Royer is quick to say.

For example, we take a quasi-annual hut trip on the backside of Ajax, to the 10th Mountain Barnard Hut, which has no electricity. I can’t skip the pulmonary vest, even for half a day, so a family friend picks me up on his snowmobile twice a day, and drives me to the Sundeck so I can plug in my vest.

My parents were equally insistent that I travel with the family through Europe and on to Sardinia when my sister Avery finished her Rotary exchange year. So they found ways to bring my vest and medicines (which needed to be on ice) on airplanes, trains, cars and a ferry. I have camped on the beaches of Costa Rica and San Diego where I learned to surf with my AHS Ex Ed classmates. And I was given a ‘Make-A-Wish’ trip, where I sailed around the Nā Pali coast in Kauai.

I now have a portable pulmonary vest with a battery pack which allows me to have a lot more freedom of movement.

I have been given many opportunities to know that I can be more than CF, more than my genetic makeup. I fight each day to breathe, to grow and to beat the odds. In a way, the work I do every day to live a healthy life makes my friendships and my possibilities for the future more rewarding. My company, Lilybart, has given me an opportunity to develop organizational skills and solve problems.

I also get to connect with amazing people who ask about my disease, which isn’t what I usually talk about. I’m just like every high school senior who dreams of the future and works hard to get there – I’m looking forward to what’s next.

MOUNTAINPARENT PRESENTS

Elana:

When Lily was a baby, something was wrong. She had a powerful personality, fearless and steadfast. However, she was small, weak, always coughing and getting ear infections. She couldn’t gain weight – despite voraciously nursing.

We saw ENTs, specialists, alternative practitioners, and no one had answers.

Then at an appointment, I mentioned something – Lily’s skin seemed salty.

We all have salt in our sweat, but when I kissed my baby, I literally tasted salt.

This clicked for our doctor. Salty skin is an indicator of Cystic Fibrosis, related to chronic malabsorption. The doctor called for blood work and my husband Chris and I soon learned that Lily received a genetic mutation for CF from both of us, meaning that we are both carriers of the disease.

I was at work in New York City when the doctor called with the results and told me that CF is a life-shortening illness.

The average age of survival then was 32.

(Today it is 38.) I cried all the way to Penn Station, then I cried on the train all the way home to New Jersey. Then it sank in – not knowing was far scarier. By naming it and understanding it, we could treat it. Chris and I devoured every bit of information they gave us and learned how to administer Lily’s medicines and therapies. Within a month, she started to thrive. We watched with joy as her tiny body started to match her strong personality.

It has never been easy. Treating CF takes over the rhythms of a household because mornings and evenings are punctuated with treatments – sterilizing inhalers, taking medicines. Lily needs lots of pills, enzymes, antibiotics, and steroids, with chest vibration twice a day, and more frequently if Lily gets sick. She now handles all of her treatments, starting every morning at 6:30 a.m.

A B G RIDGE N I D L I BU DR. WILLIAM BLEDSOE

facing a life-threatening disease, you can feel like you’re living in a small box. We decided that our family would live life like it’s a large box filled to the top.

A RESTORATIVE WAY a response to bullying

Whenever Lily gets sick, she can go quickly downhill. A cough can become pneumonia overnight. One of the hardest times came when she was fourteen. Her lung collapsed.

Her doctors called for a ‘Flight for Life’ to The Children’s Hospital in Denver.

We chose the three-hour drive so we could prepare for an onslaught of tests, procedures and the possibility of surgery. Lily packed quickly, assuring her brothers with her characteristic wit that she would be back home before they could snoop through her room.

Bundled in a blanket with a pillow clutched in her arms, she stared out the car window, pensive and quiet. Her breathing was shallow and tight. We drove through Glenwood Canyon with sleet, frost and heavy hearts.

insight when our children seem unreachable

healing patterns of family conflict

JOIN US FOR A MINI WORKSHOP Learn. Reflect. Discuss.

Put into action the

RESTORATIVE PRACTICES shared by Dr. William Bledsoe in his MP feature series.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13 7:00 – 9:00 PM THIRD STREET CENTER CALAWAY ROOM CARBONDALE $25 per person $35 per couple

SIGN UP:

Restorative Way, LLC (720) 663-0333 will@restorativeway.com www.restorativeway.com

We decided early in this journey that CF would not take over our lives. When you’re

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“ When you’re facing

a life-threatening disease, you can feel like you’re living in a small box.

We decided that our In that hospital room, amid the compulsory beeping machines that family would live tracked Lily’s vitals, we started sketching logos. We decided to name life like it’s our greeting card company Lilybart, a combination of Lily’s first and middle a large box names, Lillian Bartholomew. Each card would tell Lily’s story, making filled CF real to more people. to the top.

We find our ideas all around us – the gondola, snow, and Rocky Mountain wildlife such as: bears, elk, buffalo, Elana Royer

“

C 2757 design co.

2757 design+build co. your address for design

an architecture + design + build studio specializing in connecting places and client needs by responding to site, climate, cultural, and built environments through custom, pre-fab, and design+build solutions.

417 main st carbondale brian + erica golden :: 970.989.2757 www.2757design.co

Upon arriving at Children’s, the reality and severity of Lily’s condition hit home. Examinations, X-rays and CT scans showed a significant collapse of Lily’s lower right lobe. She needed oxygen and a PICC IV. She needed surgery: a thoracoscopy, in which a tube was inserted in Lily’s trachea. It connected to a ventilator and assisted with every inhale and exhale.

“There is no day or night in a hospital,” Lily observed during her two weeks of fluorescent lighting and around-theclock visits from doctors, therapists and specialists.

Then a special card arrived. A bold, whimsical painting emerged from a crisp white envelope. It brightened the hospital room. Lily’s youngest brother William had sent a beautiful card hoping it would make Lily smile. Candy-apple reds, bold pinks and soda-pop purples in crazy heart patterns screamed, “I love you.” We smiled, reading William’s distinctive cursive and his lengthy account of happenings at the ranch.

The nursing staff smiled too. In fact, everyone who entered the room noticed and commented on William’s card.

We placed it next to Lily’s bed for the remainder of her stay. Nurses, doctors, pulmonary specialists and visitors commented about its color and patterns.

“It would make a great Valentine card,” many told us.

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bighorn sheep, and coyotes. Our pets inspire us – over the years on the ranch, we had 5 dogs, 3 horses, 2 rabbits, chickens, ducks, goats and more than 20 rescued barn cats that we fostered for Aspen Animal shelter.

We try to capture the spirit of these animals in our designs.

Each of our original images starts as a sketch. Then we sit down at our long, farmhouse dining table and rip apart magazines recycled from the library.

We sort pages into piles of yellows, pinks, greens, blues, browns, and reds.

Then we start clipping. We piece bits together, moving parts around, looking for the gesture that will give it life.

Then we start gluing, adding whiskers, eyes and whimsy.

Lily’s aunt, Susan Cruz is a graphic artist. She scans and Photoshops our creations, creates card designs with text, and turns each idea into a printready file, which is then passed to Lily’s father Chris, whose printing house produces and packages them. It’s a family business in the truest sense.

Lily lives life with vigor. She will go to CU Boulder next year, and this means that our collaboration will grow as she grows.

Her new experiences – moving away from home, striving with college classes, attending social functions, football games – I’m sure all of this will show up in our product line. Lilybart cards will evolve to reflect all of Lily’s milestones – a career, a wedding, possible children of her own (we mothers all wish for the same things, don’t we?) We’ll meet what life brings us at our dining table with paper, scissors and hope.

MOUNTAINPARENT

HEALTHY

U N D E R S T A N D I N G OUR ANNUAL QUEST FOR WELLNESS

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HEALTHY E X P E C T A T I O N S

What is Prenatal Yoga?

Prenatal Yoga can guide you into your innate capacity for birth and motherhood.

ASHLEY WEITZEL WILSON R a d i a n t M a m a s Yo g a Carbondale

Yoga offers a deep foundation to empower us as we navigate the journey of pregnancy, labor, motherhood, parenting and life. This expansive practice provides us with incredible tools to help us connect, honor, and enhance ourselves physically, mentally and emotionally. The positive benefits we receive from this practice are not limited to the practitioner; thankfully, its impacts can be felt or shared with surrounding family, children and friends.

Prenatal yoga can specifically assist women of all physical backgrounds in finding ways to strengthen & support their body, navigate their emotions, and settle their mind in this wild and transformative process of pregnancy. Expectant mothers will be guided through specific physical poses as well as breathing techniques to empower their pregnancy and labor. Prenatal yoga classes offer a supportive community where participants can safely strengthen their process and body and build a greater emotional connection with their babies.

Benefits: •

Deepening & expanding the mind/body connection.

•

Creating invitations for mamas & babies to bond with each other

•

Developing body awareness and compassion as we honor the ever-changing pregnant body

•

Allowing expectant mothers to safely strengthen and stretch in preparation for labor

True Nature Prenatal 3-Day Retreat April 5th-7th

•

Decreasing pain & discomfort commonly present in pregnancy

Valley View Hospital Classes for Women’s Health Patients Wednesdays 11:12-12:30pm

•

Releasing stress and anxiety

•

Safely building stamina, strength, balance, & flexibility

•

Enhancing mental well-being

•

Cultivating a sense of harmony and balance

•

Building a supportive community for expectant women

PRENATAL OFFERINGS: Kula Yoga on Main Rotating Sunday Series, varying dates True Nature Healing Arts Mondays 12:15-1:30pm

Radiant Mamas Yoga Private Offerings

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NOW

OPEN Soft Belly Breathing Exercise THIS EXERCISE HELPS EXPECTANT MOTHERS TO SLOW DOWN, DROP IN, AND CONNECT WITH THEMSELVES AND THEIR BABY.

Find a comfortable seat with crossed-legs on the floor. Or sit up tall in a supportive chair with your feet on the ground.

Begin to breathe comfortably in and out of the nose and allow yourself to settle into the breath.

After you have established a steady rhythm, take a full inhale and feel your baby softly rocking forward as your navel gently moves away from your spine. As you exhale, sweetly hug your baby back towards your spine as you gently engage your deep belly muscles.

Each inhale, see your belly and low back expanding slowly like a balloon as you create space and expansion. Each exhale, find a soft contraction as you draw yourself and your baby closer to your center.

Do not force or stress the breath. Work to keep the breath soft and fluid. Continue to stay relaxed as you practice this breathing technique, allowing the mind to slow down, releasing stress, as you use belly breathing to sweetly rock both you and your baby.

Our Family, Caring for Yours.

Mountain Family Health Centers’ Basalt Integrated Health Center is NOW OPEN offering medical, dental and behavioral care in one location.

123 Emma Rd. in Basalt, CO 970-945-2840 www.mountainfamily.org

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HELP FOR TODAY. HOPE FOR TOMORROW. We help women navigate through both planned and unplanned pregnancies, empowering them and their partners to weigh their options and make informed choices regarding their pregnancy.

We offer pregnancy tests, limited ultrasounds, STD testing (for men and women), counseling services, adoption services, information regarding abortion, and some essential baby items. We are proud to offer our confidential services in both English and Spanish at no charge to our clients. We are unable to provide or refer for abortion.

1131 Grand Avenue, Glenwood Springs Monday – Thursday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

(970) 945-5562 www.pregnancycolorado.org nonprofit spotlight underwritten by

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Umbrella’s commitment: giving back 1% of gross revenue to community organizations

(970) 704-9130 UMBRELLA-ROOFING.COM

HEALTHY H A B I T S

Sleep and your newborn

S A R A H B AY 8 Straight Sleep Consulting Carbondale

You’ve just had a baby.

Congratulations and welcome to the incredibly rewarding, joyously amazing and I’ve-never-been-so-tired-in-my-life club called parenting!

It won’t be long into your journey – a month if you’re lucky – before all of your people start asking you, “How does he sleep?” Seriously. They will come up to you in the grocery store. They will ask you in the line at Starbucks (as if your doubleshot Caramel Macchiato is not an answer in itself). All of your neighbors will need to know the answer to this age-old and virtually unanswerable question. Because, how does he sleep? Well, he sleeps like a newborn.

Newborns are essentially learning how to exist outside of the womb.

Think about it: a newborn baby has no idea what the heck just happened. One day, he was perfectly safe and comfortable in this floating paradise and then suddenly, life is dramatically different.

Perhaps you’ve heard of the ‘Fourth Trimester.’ If not, allow me to bring some light into this fascinating topic. The first three months on the outside can truly be considered the final fetal development phase. Yes, you have a newborn baby. But, in actuality, he could have used a few more months inside. I know, sounds horrid considering how badly you wanted him out, right? He would have chosen a few more months, but alas, it was time for him to exit into the big, wide world.

Therefore, as he enters this world, he is still developing as he was inside the womb. What does this mean for your newborn and “that” question everyone keeps asking you? Here are a few handy answers for those who ask:

1.

Newborns aren’t supposed to sleep through the night. In the womb, they are literally eating around the clock. Therefore, that’s often what they do when they exit – they eat around the clock, no matter what time of day it is. They also can’t tell time, so there’s that…

2.

As a parent myself, I am here to give you full and complete permission to do whatever it is that you need to do for that sweet, squishy little baby. If she is two months old and she’s still waking up four times a night to nurse, that’s OK. That’s what she needs. Don’t feel pressured to put her on a schedule. Truth be told, she’s just not ready yet.

3. Follow your instincts and do what feels right to you.

4. You won’t ‘break’ your baby. There is

virtually nothing you can do that cannot be reversed and re-trained when baby becomes a bit older and ready to learn a new skill – like sleep. Therefore, if you end up being one of those I-will-neverco-sleep parents who finds herself cosleeping in an effort to get what seems like a combined hour of sleep at night, don’t worry.

Just rest (pun intended) in the fact that this too, will pass.

With that, realistically, when is a baby ready to learn how to sleep through the night?

I begin my work with clients as early as four months. At this time, baby is no longer that squishy little I’m-afraid-to-break-him newborn.

He’s just hit some major brain and physical development milestones.

He might be reaching or grabbing for something in front of him; he might be able to roll over from front to back; his sight is now much clearer and he can begin to see colors, shapes and recognize his people; he now cries to communicate in different ways (hungry, boredom, tired). Crying to communicate different needs becomes a major key to our success.

So, let’s talk for a minute about tears.

When it comes to sleep training your baby, the question I get asked most often: will my baby cry? My answer: I never want a baby to cry.

Never ever. Babies are so sweet and so innocent (and, let’s call a spade a spade – so darn cute). Here’s the truth: when it becomes time to teach that sweet little thing how to sleep for longer stretches, she’s going to be frustrated. We are asking her to do something she hasn’t yet learned how to do and that’s frustrating. Because she can’t talk yet and express her frustration verbally, she cries. She doesn’t have a concept of fear or abandonment. She just knows that she’s being taught something that isn’t coming naturally. But, it will.

Sleep training is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Perhaps you’ve read a book on baby sleep. Or, perhaps you’ve read “all” the books. It’s OK – I did, too. And, what I found was that every book was written with a different tone, a different message and frankly, without knowing me or my baby.

Therefore, for me, sleep coaching becomes a ground-up process – a plan created precisely for you, your environment, your parenting philosophy and your goals. So, enjoy your newborn today. And, tomorrow, we tackle sleep!

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HEALTHY P E R S P E C T I V E S

Tongue-Tie

New approaches to two common wellness issues of early childhood

L AUREN SUHRBIER M O U N TA I N PA R E N T

When our second child was born in May, I had two goals. Goal #1: to try for a VBAC (vaginal delivery after caesarean). Thanks to the amazing teams at Women’s Health and Valley View Hospital, we succeeded with that goal. Goal #2: to get off to a good start with breastfeeding, which did not go well with our first child.

Although the evidence may be conjectural, I believed that avoiding a C-Section would help my milk come in and help us achieve goal #2. For me, the caesarean involved a lot of drugs, a lot of pain and a long recovery. I felt that all of these contributed to a failed attempt at nursing.

Baby Caroline was born the healthiest of kids and we still are counting our blessings for this. But, Goal #2 was a struggle right away. She had a hard time latching, and even when she did, her suction was weak and extremely painful for me. Within the first day at the hospital, the attending pediatrician diagnosed her with a severe tongue-tie.

What is tongue-tie?

According to the Mayo Clinic: “Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) is a condition present at birth that restricts the tongue’s range of motion. With tongue-tie, an unusually short, thick or tight band of tissue (lingual frenulum) tethers the bottom of the tongue’s tip to the floor of the mouth, so it may interfere with breastfeeding.

Someone who has tongue-tie might have difficulty sticking out his or her tongue. Tongue-tie can also affect the way a child eats, speaks and swallows.”

What is a Frenotomy?

We agreed with our doctors’ initial recommendation, trying to correct Caroline’s tongue-tie with sterile scissors. In the case

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of some infants, the lingual frenulum is so thick that entirely releasing it with scissors is not recommended, which was the case with Caroline. So after seeking help from Carbondale Lactation and Carbondale Family Dental, we decided to plan a second frenomoty when Caroline was 5 days old. Dr. Andy Nardeccia used a Solea Laser to cut the frenulum further. The procedure didn’t require anaesthesia and didn’t seem to inflict pain.

Results?

Within hours of the second frenotomy, Caroline’s latch was greatly improved. With a little more guidance and a lot of perseverance (on my part) she started gaining weight, had reduced indications of jaundice and nursing became less painful.

Of note – post-procedure care is critical for success. The frenulum will reconnect within days if it isn’t rubbed several times a day.

Babies don’t seem to like this, but it doesn’t hurt them. Thanks to expert care and advice, Goal #2 was a success!

Who to call?

While services from providers change all the time, we currently know that All Kid’s Dental and Carbondale Family Dental offer frenotomies using a laser, and Pediatric Partners can do them with sterile scissors.

Notes on insurance and timing:

My experience was that getting this covered by insurance was challenging. You’ll have the best chance of coverage if your pediatrician writes a referral to a local dentist before the procedure. Time is of the essence. The sooner the problem is addressed, the easier the healing will be, and the quicker breastfeeding can get on track.

Food Allergies

drive less. see more.

DR. ROBERT MCDERMOTT Allergy, Asthma and Immunology of the Rockies DR. KIMBALL SPENCE Roaring Fork Family Practice

“

Recent evidence suggests that early introduction of tree nuts, peanuts, fish, shellfish, soy, wheat, eggs and milk can lead to a reduction in developing an allergy to these foods.

How do I start introducing foods that are possibly allergenic?

“

DR. ROBERT MCDERMOTT

Friends help friends put skis on the bus.

RIDE TOGETHER. SKI TOGETHER.

Around 4-6 months (no later than ten months), once your baby tolerates complementary foods (cereal, fruits and vegetables), it is advised to start introducing allergenic foods, starting with 1 new food every 3-5 days.

• Soy (mashed tofu, soy milk) • Wheat (wheat cereal) • Peanuts (peanut powder in cereal, creamy peanut butter) • Tree Nuts (cashew, pistachio, hazelnut, walnut, almond, pecan*) Introduce as butters / spreads or milks or in baked goods. *The FDA labels coconut as a tree nut, however, this is in fact a seed, so most people who are allergic to tree nuts can safely eat coconut.

• Dairy (start w/ baked goods; if tolerated, try yogurt or cheese) • Eggs (start w/ baked goods; if tolerated, try scrambled eggs) • Fish (cod, salmon, tilapia, mahi mahi, trout, tuna, etc.) and Shellfish (lobster shrimp, crab) Due to flavor / texture, this may be less tolerated by your baby. Try dipping your finger in the fish / shellfish, and then putting your finger in your baby’s mouth. Or try puréeing fish stews or bisque and feeding it to your baby.

What are the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction?

It can be difficult to tell if your baby simply doesn’t like the food, or if she / he is having an allergic reaction. These will usually happen within 60 minutes of eating the food: • Fussiness • Vomiting • Rash (redness or hives or both) • Diarrhea • Runny nose • Watery eyes • Coughing, wheezing, trouble breathing If you suspect your child is having an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention and notify your doctor. An allergist can help you evaluate if your child had an allergic reaction.

www.rfta.com 970.925.8484 37

HEALTHY L I M I T S

o •DA

WITH D I A N A G R A B E R best-selling author of Raising Humans in a Digital World Community Event: March 11

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PAT T I C O N N O L LY Teacher – WSRF Carbondale

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Slow Tech Parenting in the Age of Digital Citizenship

D E TR T H Y A IL S

“How To” for Slow Tech Parents Media Manners & Digital Safety for Kids develop the thinking and social-emotional skills needed • Close your devices when eating alone or with others.

•forChildren engaging in digital technology very slowly. It takes years to Do not look at your screen or text while talking with someone. model and teach a child these needed skills, so that she will become • an ethical, balanced, creative digital citizen.

“Excuse me” to those you are with if you must respond • Say, urgently to someone online.

For children to develop healthy habits when using screens, parents •must Be polite, kind and respectful online, as you would in person. gradually let them use screens to learn how. (It’s similar to • learning how to dress. We don’t wait to teach our children to dress • Be an up-stander online - stick up for others. themselves until they can do it completely on their own. We gently Tell a parent or trusted adult if you get messages or photos that guide them to do more and more of it themselves until they can • make you uncomfortable or if others are being bullied, complete the myriad of tasks in dressing independently.) The child definitely doesn’t need to be on screens for hours each day, but zero use does not cultivate balance and self-control.

•

Parents can have different media expectations for each child, depending on their age and developmental need. When parents are lovingly firm about their values concerning tech use, they can set healthy limits.

Screens are tools – not entertainment! Learn the difference between •passive consumption of media (TV, DVDs, etc.) and participatory media

– especially interactive apps and games. Show your child how to use these technological tools when the need arises just like how you teach her to use a hammer or a broom. Think of educational apps like classic board games and activity sets.

•

Know that it’s healthy for all of us to watch an age-appropriate movie for fun, or to watch one’s favorite sports team play a game, or to listen to age-appropriate music that interests us – all within healthy limits.

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disrespected or treated badly online.

a website’s rules and know how to flag other users • Understand for misbehavior, such as online bullying or impersonating others. the privacy of others. For example, never forward a text • orRespect photo without asking permission.

Do not befriend, chat or virtually game with someone without • your parent’s permission.

• Do not share private photos online. not give your name, school’s name, age, phone number, email • Do or home address online.

• Keep passwords private with everyone but your parents.

Recognize “red flags.” Here’s one: someone asks personal • questions such as your name and address.

• Do not text/phone while riding a bike, walking or crossing a street.

Do not send or share anything online that you wouldn’t want the • entire world to see for eternity.

6 Healthy Habits

F O R S L O W T E C H PA R E N T S

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Think about the internet, social media and hand-held devices as if they were a big bowl of chocolate candy. Imagine telling your child to take that bowl into her room, close the door, and then eat only one piece each day. . . . PAT T I C O N N O L LY

1. Model healthy digital media habits.

Set down your devices when talking to your child. When a child initiates a connection with a parent she needs to respond with full attention. Tell her what you are doing when you engage with a screen. Eliminate background TV and shut down your computer at night. Model online etiquette and adhere to social media restrictions for your child.

2. Follow a Slow-Tech “Media Diet” with your child. (See chart on p. 40) 3. Do your research.

Decide what your child’s media diet will be – based on age, academic need, and type of devices. Find and preview apps that enhance your child’s learning in the real world. (e.g., using an app that turns a tablet into a magnifying glass) and ones that involve creating books, art, and music. Find and preview good viewing content by checking reviews and surveying friends. Use commonsensemedia.com to make the Internet safer for your child. Block certain sites, filter search results, and use a kid browser with built-in parental controls. Keep aware of what’s new in the virtual world – the latest trends, safety issues, etc.

4. Play, watch and learn together.

Engage in participatory media with your child. “It’s a great opportunity for what we call ‘joint attention,’ or the interactions between a child and a [parent], the back-and-forth, which is critical not just to language development, but brain development,” writes Dr. Dimitri Christakis. Co-view content and discuss what you’re watching and talk about advertising. Show your child a book, article or video that helps her learn about technology.

5. Talk about media and tech with your child.

Say, “tell me” instead of “show me.” It’s so easy to quickly pull up a definition, video, etc. Instead, encourage your kids to let a thought or question incubate.

Talk with your child regularly about what she is doing/viewing on screens.

Brainstorm with your child how to deal with possible situations of being exposed to content you haven’t approved beforehand or with using devices without filters. With your middle–school child, talk about ethical challenges and personal risks of digital media such as cyberbullying, sexting, online advertisements and online predators.

6. Follow your tech-wise family digital media agreements.

Here are some to consider:

• “Device-Free Times” – mealtimes, in car, family outings and visits.

• For sleep to be restful, shut down all devices one hour before bedtime.

• Keep hand-held devices out of all bedrooms.

• Computers are in the busiest room in the house.

• Place the charging station for all devices in one central location.

• Watch only one device at a time.

Here are a few alternatives to screens when on longer car rides:

Have your child create with jewelry and art making kits, reusable sticker books, activity books, silly putty, wiki sticks, beeswax modeling and a travel doodler or etch-a-sketch. Bring along a Rubik’s cube, Madlibs, 20 Questions, “Would You Rather” card game, and travel bingo. Enjoy an audiobook together or read a classic children’s book aloud, and, of course, have a collection of books for her to read.

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Slow Tech Media Diet

created by PATTI CONNOLLY and DIANA GRABER

based on the American Academy of Pediatric’s 2013 Guidelines AGE

HOW MUCH SCREEN TIME ?

Generally

PARTICIPATORY MEDIA

PASSIVE MEDIA

Video Calling

Learning / Playing (with Apps)

Emails / Texts / Social Media

Use Family PC / Tablet

Own Smart Phone

Non-Interactive Media (TV, DVDs)

(Facetime, Skype)

0-2 YEARS

very little

with parent

not yet

not yet

not yet

not yet

not yet

3-6 YEARS

very little active use with parent

with parent

play with parent limit: 5 minutes per day

email only to family, with parent typing

not yet

not yet

either none or educational content with parent on weekends

7-9 YEARS

slightly more active use with parent

with parent initiating contact

play with parent most of the time limit: 15-30 minutes per day

email only to family, with parent typing

with parent

not yet

educational content with parent on weekends

10-12 YEARS

gradually increase active use, most with parent

with parent initiating contact

yes with limits: 30-45 minutes / day

email with parent until child can type

read e-books, research w/ parent; 30 minute limit

not yet

educational and parent approved on weekends

13-14 YEARS

incease in active use set agreements created with parents

with parents aware of who child is communicating with

yes with limits: 30-45 minutes / day

email using child-safe apps

read e-books school research & homework

possibly w/ clear rules and “co-pilot” app

age appropriate on weekends

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HEALTHY B O U N D A R I E S

Teaching our sons and daughters about sexual consent in the ME TOO era JENNIFER HAWKS Yo u t h Z o n e Glenwood Springs

Living in a bubble...

My bubble has popped!

The reality is, although circumstances may not always be as extreme, in the Roaring Fork Valley things do happen here. We do have teenage pregnancy and suicide. We do have teenagers that run away and are homeless. We, as parents, have either experienced or know another parent who is right now experiencing great grief watching their teenager going down a path that we know is not good for them.

Working at YouthZone as a Youth & Family Specialist, as well as being of mother of two (a 20 year old son in college and a 17 year old daughter in high school) I see on a daily basis the impact the #METOO movement has had on teenagers. I have seen both positive and negative effects of this growing movement and have had discussions with many parents about supporting their kids with healthy boundaries.

“

The courage and strength I have seen from teenagers using their voices has empowered others to speak up.

It has also opened up our eyes as parents and is forcing us to have important conversations with our teenagers.

JENNIFER HAWKS

“

I often tell my friends and family back home how grateful and fortunate I am to get to live in the Roaring Fork Valley and how “protected” I feel being in this beautiful bubble. I tell them about the breathtaking views of the mountains, the softly flowing rivers, the abundance of a never-ending outdoor playground, the sense of community, and having a village in which to raise our kids. I have even heard myself say on occasion, “that doesn’t happen here.”

I work with teenagers who are dealing with the post-traumatic effects of experiencing nonconsensual sexual contact. Now, because of the media attention given to the #ME TOO movement (and the unfortunate episodes that are fueling this news coverage), younger kids are learning about these incidents via social media without supportive education.

On the positive side, the courage and strength I have seen from teenagers using their voices has empowered others to speak up. It has also opened up our eyes as parents and is forcing us to have important conversations with our teenagers.

Here are some tips I have shared with parents to support their kids. Let’s transform #ME TOO into #NOTME:

1. Boundaries

What are your kid’s boundaries? Do they even know what that means? Make sure they understand what a boundary is and why it’s important to set boundaries. As a parent, you could start the conversation by asking your teenager to tell you what boundaries mean to them, tell them some of your boundaries, then ask them to share with you some of theirs.

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2. Role Modeling

“

I ask my daughter regularly to tell me what she loves about herself and what she would change. I ask her what she needs.

I tell her she is loved unconditionally and how lucky I am that I am her mother.

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JENNIFER HAWKS

We must role model to our kids what healthy boundaries look like. Whether it’s in your relationship with your spouse, your friends, your co-workers or your kids, it’s important that we show them how to be treated and how not to be treated.

3. Communication

Let’s talk to our kids about what they think is okay and not okay. How will they let others know this? Are they able to be open and direct about their boundaries? Sometimes it’s easier for teenagers to do this if you take them out of the focus and ask them what their friends would think and what would their friend do.

4. Positive Self-Regard

Do they feel good about themselves? Low self-esteem can lead to the inability to create or maintain boundaries. I ask my daughter regularly to tell me what she loves about herself and what she would change. I ask her what she needs. I tell her she is loved unconditionally and how lucky I am that I am her mother.

5. How to Seek Support

If they feel their boundaries have been violated, do they know where to turn to for support? Can they talk to you? Who can you call as a parent for support? In my opinion, this is the most important conversation we must have with our teenagers and ourselves, so that if something happens, our kids can immediately get the support they need.

There are resources for teenagers and parents in the Roaring Fork Valley. Some are as simple as talking with other parents, school staff and online resources. We have many licensed therapists in the Valley who are excellent resources.

At YouthZone, we offer one-on-one consultations with parents, where we can provide recommendations to meet your teenager’s situation. We can also set up a time to meet with you together with your teenager to assist with communication and support. We believe that no matter what happens, no one needs to go through it alone, or in silence or shame.

(YouthZone is an award-winning, evidence-based diversion and advocacy program that has served youth and their parents from Aspen to Parachute for over forty years. The local nonprofit has offices in Aspen, Carbondale, Glenwood Springs, and Rifle. See page 48 for more details.)

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HEALTHY B O D Y

I recently read that in the U.S. an astonishing 91% of women hate their bodies.

Throughout history, women have been pressured and shamed to look a certain way. This is not just a modern media issue; it has been prevalent in cultures throughout the world since the beginning of time. Since I began researching my project I have noticed that many women, at some point in their lives, have been seen or treated as an object rather than being treated as a human being who deserves respect.

Today, we’re familiar with the societal pressure that goes along with “ideal” body image, particularly among females. While skinny models may populate most of today’s magazines and media, emphasizing an unhealthy obsession with thinness. Women have always been under some form of pressure to look a certain way.

We see objectification of the female body today in different types of media such as magazines, TV, and film, as well as in the fashion, music and modeling industries. Although media has brought this issue to light, it started as far back as the 1800s. While at that time the ideal body was not rail thin, it was actually very full and voluptuous. In 1800, for example, this “ideal” form was depicted in Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s painting “The Large Bathers.” In this painting, the women appear to be comfortable in their curves and full figures.

Loving ourselves exactly as we are BRAE HUBBARD

“

Boulder

We teeter between the “thin-spiration” ideal and the emerging popularity of plus-size models. These models are transforming our society’s pressure for thinness. They are introducing the idea that beauty is natural regardless of your shape, color, or size. This is the beginning of a new Body Positive movement in the U.S. where women are encouraged away from “plus size” terminology and toward simply “my size.” ... BRAE HUBBARD

“

This breaks my heart, but I am determined to start a conversation and bring awareness to this worldwide issue. I chose to start this conversation by doing my own survey. I wanted to find out how many women in our community struggle with these issues and if or how they have made peace with it.

I M A G E

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The Body Image Movement is an internationallyrecognized crusade founded on the belief that your body is not an ornament.

It’s the vehicle to your dreams.

Everyone has the right to love and embrace their body, regardless of shape, size, ethnicity or ability.

“

BRAE HUBBARD

Until the 20th Century, voluptuous and curvy women were considered the ideal woman in the U.S. and Europe. Even though this ideal of the female body was revered at that time, I imagine the women of different body types felt a similar self-hatred that is felt today.

In the 1920’s, Flappers dominated the style industry with thin lean builds and “bob” haircuts. Flappers resisted traditional roles and started living a more rebellious lifestyle. This is an example in U.S. modern history where women have shown their disdain for being treated as objects, and then created their own rules.

Unfortunately, this spirited resistance did not last long. Our culture moved into objectification of women for the remainder of the 20th century.

In the 1940’s and 50’s, curves became popular again as depicted by Marilyn Monroe and other models and actresses that became “pin-up” girls. The leggy, curvy blonde was the pinnacle of attractiveness during these years, and is still considered one of the most beautiful women in American history.

“Pin ups” were posters created primarily by male illustrators and mass-produced to be pinned up on the wall. This created an impossible ideal because the artists, similar to the process of Photoshop today, altered these images.

Girls today may argue that they are put under more pressure than the women in the 1950’s, but the truth is, women in that time were just as sexualized and pressured by society. Although the women of that time were heavier set, the fashion industry and cultural pressures were just as scrutinizing.

Starting in the 1960’s, and up until very recently, skinny has been the driving ideal body type in our culture. The idea that every body type should be skinny is an ultimate misconception of the natural female body. This image began with a model named Twiggy, who was rail thin and without any curves. In the 1990’s, this thin image became even more emaciated looking and was glamorized by the model Kate Moss, who said, “nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.” This solidified an

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We teeter between the “thin-spiration” ideal and the emerging popularity of plus-size models. These models are transforming our society’s pressure for thinness. They are introducing the idea that beauty is natural regardless of your shape, color or size.

This is the beginning of a new Body Positive movement in the U.S. where women are encouraged away from “plus size” terminology and toward simply “my size.”

The “ideal” female body image has been through many changes over the years, and has followed the media’s portrayal of women of the times. Now, there is a growing number of healthy body image advocates on social media who are addressing detrimental cultural beliefs around body image norms.

This movement is bringing awareness and support for women worldwide to heal our cultural wounds around our bodies and helping us to “embrace” the beauty of who we are.

“It’s not the body that makes someone happy or sad. It’s the thinking,” says my mentor Emily Hightower of Carbondale, who empowers people to heal through her company, Ondalu. “It’s the toxicity of the mind. Someone who can’t walk can love their body, and this can radiate from their heart. A perfectly ablebodied and healthy person can hate themselves for those last 10 pounds.

It’s all subjective.”

“

It’s not the body that makes someone happy or sad.

It’s the thinking.

It’s the toxicity of the mind.

Someone who can’t walk can love their body, and this can radiate from their heart.

A perfectly able-bodied and healthy person can hate themselves for those last 10 pounds.

It’s all subjective.

E M I LY H I G H T O W E R

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obsession with thinness that continues to permeate the female body image.

Mass media often eschews being our “natural self,” highlighting unnaturally skinny as better. For most women, this is unattainable.

Taryn Brumfitt, an advocate from Australia, created a documentary titled “Embrace” and has a company called Body Image Movement (BIM). This now internationally recognized crusade was founded on the belief that your body is not an ornament, it’s the vehicle to your dreams. BIM believes that everyone has the right to love and embrace their body, regardless of shape, size, ethnicity or ability.

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HEALTHY P E T S

The relationship of diet to cardiac health DR. DOUG BAHR, DVM sponsored content cour tesy of W illi t s Ve ter inar y H os pi t al, Bas al t & Glenwo o d Spr ings

Heart disease and diet

Heart disease is reported as leading cause of death year after year. Frequently, heart disease in humans is acquired later in life and often exacerbated by poor lifestyle choices (ie. bad eating and exercise habits). Conversely, dogs and cats are much more resistant to acquired heart disease. That being said, maintaining good body condition through routine exercise and proper diet is extremely important to your pet’s overall health (especially for their joints!!). When specifically considering cardiac health in our canine and feline friends, our focus should be on genetics and understanding our pets diet.

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For dogs

Recent studies examining the long-term effects of grain free diets on dogs have uncovered an association with a specific form of heart disease known as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). As a result of these studies, the FDA issued a warning (see www.fda.gov) which alerts pet owners of the cardiac risks, associated with grainfree, legume rich diets. Although these diets have gained much popularity over the last few years, there are actually no proven benefits for our pets.

Grain and grain free diets

Proponents of these diets have two major arguments: #1 The idea that the dog’s digestive tract did not evolve to digest grains. Because wolves are certainly predators, this argument seems intuitively true; however, the most desirable “cut of meat” for a wolf is actually the intestines of their grain-eating prey. Several genes have been identified in dogs that allow them to easily digest carbs (including grains) without consequence. #2 Grains are common food allergens for dogs leading to itchy skin and poor hair coats. Contrary to this claim, proteins, such as chicken are the most common source of food allergies that cause significant skin issues. It is important to consult with your veterinarian regarding your pet’s allergies.

For cats

Hypertrophic Cardio Myopathy (HCM) is the most common form of heart disease in cats.

Although the exact cause of this disease is unknown, genetics certainly play a part. The best way to screen cats for this condition is annual exams where your veterinarian can listen for abnormal heart sounds and rhythms.

Unfortunately, there is no preventative measure to avoid HCM but there is much that can be done to manage this condition once diagnosed. Cats who have this heart condition are at increased risk of developing blood clots that frequently end up lodged in major vessels. In all cases of HCM, the sooner the diagnosis is made; the sooner medications can be initiated to prevent terrible secondary effects of the disease.

The diagnosis of HCM is definitively made using echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart). Annual physical exams performed by a vet along with a full history of clinical signs are the first step to staying on top of your cat’s cardiac health.

In conclusion, it’s important to take your dog for routine walks and get your cat off the couch. Do these things routinely to develop a habit and build up to more strenuous activity. Most importantly, know what breed/combination of breeds you’re dealing with, familiarize yourself about appropriate diets and understand the known heart conditions associated with your breed of dog or cat. Lastly, have your pet examined by a veterinarian annually to catch and treat heart disease early.

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YouthZone offers parent consults and education to support parents in identifying needs of the family and offers resources available at Youthzone and in the community.

Parents will receive fast, effective strategies that focus and build on parents’ individual strengths.

Did you know otolaryngology is the medical term for specialty care of the Ear, Nose and Throat? Dr. Heather Murphy at Aspen Valley Hospital provides comprehensive medical and surgical care for both adult and pediatric patients.

Areas of expertise include chronic nasal and sinus conditions; voice and swallowing disorders; ear infections, enlarged tonsils and adenoids; facial plastic surgery; hearing issues and vertigo; head, neck and thyroid surgery.

(970) 945-2840 MOUNTAINFAMILY.ORG

(970) 510-5436 WILLITSVET.COM

Our Cone Beam CT scanner provides advanced imaging technology for our patients. The NewTom 5G captures equal or better image quality compared to traditional CT scans, while exposing patients to far less radiation with fast results.

(970) 963-0240 ONE-MOMENT.ORG

(970) 945-2583 MINDSPRINGSHEALTH.ORG

ASHLEY@YOGAASH.COM RADIANTMAMASYOGA.COM

(970) 945-9300 YOUTHZONE.COM

GO O D

S PO R T S P L AY I N G + PROGR AMMING

Inner Strength Outer Vision RUTHIE BROWN sophomore, RFHS Carbondale

I was an hour into the most physically daunting challenge I had ever tackled, my black belt test. Sweat ran down my forehead. My breathing was ragged and scratched against my throat, but now came the easy part, or so I thought. I had four board breaks ahead of me.

A downward hammer fist, a forward roundhouse elbow, a downward elbow, and a sidekick. All would be attempted with my dominant fist, elbow, and leg and each was a two board break.

I was confident, perhaps too confident.

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“

In my 20 years of teaching, I’ve never experienced anything like it.

The entire Center was on its feet, cheering her on, amazed by her perseverance during the test, and there was not a dry eye in the house.

A SAMPLING OF LOCAL MARTIAL ARTS PROGRAMMING ASPEN

ROCKY MOUNTAIN MARTIAL ARTS 435 W Main Street (970) 948-6694

B A S A LT / W I L L I T S

ROCKY MOUNTAIN MARTIAL ARTS 40 Sunset Drive 970-948-2236

ASPEN MAA

1460 E Valley Road, Suite 012 (214) 725-4787

C ARBONDALE

RISING CRANE TRAINING CENTER 768 Highway 133 (970) 274-8473

ROARING FORK AIKIKAI

2553 Dolores Way (970) 340-8178

SAHN TAE KWON DO Carbondale Rec Center 567 Colorado Avenue (970) 510-1290

GLENWOOD SPRINGS

ROUNDHOUSE MARTIAL ARTS

1512 Grand Avenue Suite 213 B (970) 230-9439

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“

K AREN BR ADSHAW R i s i n g C r a n e Tr a i n i n g C e n t e r

Each of these board breaks I had done on numerous occasions and a plan was set in place in case I didn’t go through the boards. Although I was aware of the crowd that began to gather around me, my mind was in a place were distractions were irrelevant and fear was a challenge to surpass.

My goal and my one and only thought was of “going through,” a concept taught to students attempting board breaking. The reality is that board breaking is more of a mental game than a physical game. If you have any second thoughts, if you’re afraid or worriedyou won’t break the board you have to go through. This proved true as I broke the boards with my sidekick as if slicing butter. The sidekick was the break I was most uncertain of; kicks are much harder to aim, despite being more powerful than any hand technique, but I had focused and succeeded.

Next came the downward hammer fist, my very first break, and my first double break. This was the break I was most confident in. My body moved in a rehearsed form – I brought my fist downbreathing out as I hit the board – it didn’t break.

I tried again, no luck. I had a lump in my throat and the nerves began crawling, creeping up, but I gathered myself and moved on to the next break.

The downward elbow was easy. The forward elbow went as planned.

It was now time for my second attempt on the downward hammer fist. Sensei Karen Bradshaw of Rising Crane Training Center, with whom I had been studying for 5 years, asked if I would try this break once again. To explain, I was allowed two tries for every break. If I didn’t make it, I moved on, and once I returned to try again, I had to decide if would I continue with the same break or if I would do my backup break.

There was no hesitance – I would break with the downward hammer. I returned to my position facing the boards. I raised my fist. I breathed out and I went through – the air was split with a crack – followed by applause. My hand stung with ferocity, but I broke the board! My last hour went by quickly and with its closure, I was barely standing. I had been pushed past my physical capability but I had done it. I had completed my black belt test after two hours of sparring, a tearful speach, a performance

demonstrating self-defense and board breaking.

And now it was time for promotions. My mentor, my friend, my teacher Sensei Karen handed me my black belt.With shaking hands, I put it on stood to loud cheering. I bowed out facing the flag and seven high ranking black belts who had tested me. The flag was decorated with a Yinyang representing Cuong Nhu. Before I could finish bowing, my legs were taken out from underneath me. I had one – and then ten, and then twenty – people on me, hugging and congratulating.

I saw my parents smiling. I would later learn they spent the entire time on the edge of their seats soaked in worry. I saw my sisters, my friends, the students I have taught, the individuals I had trained with for five years, my RFHS Spanish teacher Nina Marin-Tapias, who has changed my life, and I saw Sensei Karen.

I couldn’t move. I could only let pure skyrocketing emotion take me. I was crying out of gratefulness and pure happiness. My dream, my goal; I had achieved it and a weight was lifted off my shoulders and spilled out in salty tears.

This is how I earned my black belt, though of course, how I earned it really happened in moments, in hours and in days in the dojo over the past five years. This is an accomplishment, and also an outer symbol of the inner qualities that I developed through Cuong Nhu. I can handle myself in a fight; I can explore the beautiful mountains of Colorado with relative ease; I am stronger in sports outside of Cuong Nhu; I stay healthy; I can do anything. Although I listen to my body with caution and care, I can ignore physical limitations such as tired muscles. I am able to focus my attention on a single goal, no matter what is coming at me or happening around me. This has helped me in school, on tests, and in my other sport, Nordic Ski Racing. Sensei Karen helped me to develop this state of mental-being, combination of determination and attention to detail that allows me to block out distractions. She also helped me develop my voice, problem-solving skills and leadership capabilities. I go into every new challenge with a positive, and ready-for-anything attitude, no matter if it is in school, family life or something unexpected.

Aspen RECREATION DEPARTMENT 0861 Maroon Creek Rd, Aspen 970.544.4100 aspenrecreation.com

ASPEN REC CENTER

DAILY ADMISSION: $20 Adults | $17 kids.

Local pricing available for residents.

OPEN: Monday – Sunday hours vary Come to the Aspen Recreation Center, also known as the “ARC”, for a fun day for the whole family. Try the climbing wall, ice skate or splash around in our pools, the choice is yours. Parents can workout or take a fitness class. Membership passes are available.

FULL DAY FUN CAMP

FEE: $44 online DATES: Feb 18, March 7 & 8, March 25 - 29, April 1, May 17 AGES: 5 - 11 years old (must be attending kindergarten) DROP OFF: 7:30 – 9:30 PM PICK UP: 3:30 – 5:30 PM LOCATION: Aspen Elementary School Play with us on the days when school is out. The days will be packed full of fun & educational activities. All City of Aspen youth camps are state licensed day care programs.

CELEBRATE YOUR BIRTHDAY WITH US!

AFTERSCHOOL CLUB

SWIM LESSONS

YOUTH SPRING BASKETBALL

SUMMER PROGRAMMING

ADULT ACTIVITIES

AT THE ASPEN REC CENTER Choose the Green Room or the Aspen Youth Center for older kids.

Includes pool, climbing and skating if available. Add-ons: Themes with set-up, color schemes, cakes and more.

AT THE RED BRICK Fee includes tables, chairs, setup and tear-down. Add-ons are available for an additional fee, including bounce houses, aerials, trampolines and more. See the website for rental fees.

DATES: April 3 - May 12 AGE: Kindergarten FEES: $50 online, $54 in-person AGE: 1st & 2nd Grade FEES: $96 online, $101 in-person Registration opens in February.

Go to the website to see practice & game info. Dribble, pass and dream of dunking. Kids learn teamwork, sportsmanship, and the fundamentals of basketball. Coed. *Volunteer coaches needed

RED BRICK CENTER FOR THE ARTS

redbrickaspen.com

FULL DAY ART CAMPS

PRE-K STUDIO

FEE: $60 TIME: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM AGES: K - 5th grade On select days during the school year, The Red Brick Center for the Arts offers full day art camp to all elementary age students. Weather permitting the campers may head outside for more art making, exploring and play. Check the website for upcoming fall dates, www.redbrickaspen.com.

FEE: Free TIME: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM DATES: Wednesdays during the school year (no class 3/27) This class explores the many mediums and elements of art through new projects each week.

This is a drop-in style class, come for 10 minutes or for the entire time. Open to all Pre-K aged students with accompaniment of a guardian or parent.

FEE: $15/day, Wednesdays $20 DATES: Aspen School District calendar AGES: Kindergarten - 10 years old TIMES: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 3:15 - 5:30 PM Wed: 1:55 - 5:30 PM LOCATION: Aspen Elementary School Cafeteria The Afterschool Club is a state licensed program. The program includes homework help and lots of fun recreational activities like crafts, games & field trips on Wednesdays.

This summer choose from a variety of summer activities and camps to keep your kids active, entertained & engaged.

• • • • • • • • •

City of Aspen Day Camp Chess Camp Weekly Art Camps Sailing Outdoor Climbing Mountain Biking Soccer Camp Hockey Camp Swim Lessons and more!

AFTERSCHOOL ART PLAY

FEE: $20 TIME: 2:00 – 4:00 PM DATES: Wednesdays during the school year (no class 3/27) Each week children explore a theme through a different medium such as collage, painting, papiermache, ceramics and more!

Register on the website.

FEE: $34 / month online. Call for private lessons.

DATES: Monthly TIMES: Days based on specific class.

AGES: Ages 6 months and up LOCATION: Aspen Rec Center Beginners learn to be safe in the water and develop basic swim skills in a fun environment with their instructor. Various levels of classes to choose from. Private lessons for kids and adults are available.

ASPEN GOLF SIMULATOR Join us this winter to keep the rust off your swing with our Full Swing Golf Simulator. Play famous courses, hit the driving range or work on your short game. Cameras track your swing path and club face angle through impact. Located in the lower level of the Aspen Golf Course Clubhouse. Prices by the hour for up to 6 people.

Open every day except Tuesday.

AspenGolf.com.

Snowmass VILLAGE PARKS, RECREATION & TRAILS

2835 Brush Creek Road, Snowmass Village – 970.922.2240 snowmassrecreation.com

RECREATION CENTER PASSES

There are a variety of memberships available at the Snowmass Village Recreation Center. Whether you want to work out for the day or have ambitious fitness goals that may take a little longer we offer something for every budget. You don’t have to live in Snowmass Village to enjoy our great facility. Options include youth and adult one time daily visits, monthly, yearly and a 20 visit punch card.

RECREATION DEPARTMENT 101 Midland Avenue, Basalt 970.927.8214 x 400 Basalt.net/recreation

WINTER BREAK: KIDS DAY CAMPS

TIME: Mon - Fri, 8:00am-5:00pm DATES: March 7-8, 25-20, April 1, and May 17 FEES: $45 per day AGES: 5-14 Join your friends for a fun filled day/week of recreation and adventure, utilizing our great facilities so close to home.

Activities will include but are not limited to indoor rock climbing, swimming, ice skating, arts and crafts, outdoor activities, playground, volleyball and much more. Schedules can be found online: snowmassrecreation.com.

DROP IN PICKLEBALL

DROP IN BASKETBALL

BEADED SNOWFLAKES

CROSS COUNTRY ADVENTURE IN ASHCROFT

PICKLEBALL DATE NIGHT

DATE/TIME: Friday, February 15, 9:30 - 10:45am WHERE: BMS Classroom FEE: $20 Your child will create beautiful one of a kind snowflakes that will sparkle in the sunlight like a real snowflake. Materials are provided with this class. This is a spectacular activity to share with your child during the parent/teacher conferences for RE-1 schools. Bring a friend to make it snow!

K-2 MUD SEASON BASKETBALL

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Have your next party at the Snowmass Village Recreation Center. We offer a variety of rental options that include use of the swimming pool, bounce house, ice rink and indoor climbing wall.

Price and times dependent upon packages.

NEW FITNESS CLASS SCHEDULE

We have a ton of new specialty classes including Body Pump, Jui-Jitsu, Tai Chi, and a variety of virtual classes! For our full classes schedule of all our classes, including our virtual and specialty classes visit our website at snowmassrecreation.com. We will also be doing fitness class events once a month, so follow the Town of Snowmass Village Parks, Recreation, & Trails on Facebook for updates on fun events.

Basalt

HOST A PARTY

DATES: Feb 26, 28, Mar 8, 7, 12 and 14 TIME: 3:30 - 4:20pm AGES: K - 2nd Grade FEE: $30; Registration by Feb 23; $50 after deadline WHERE: BES gym This is an opportunity for the younger basketball players both boys and gorls to get off the bench and on the courts with our K2 Mud Season Basketball League. Work on hoop fundamentals with games every practice day. End the season with a mini tournament for all players.

DAYS: Tuesday and Thursday TIME: 9:00am-11:00am DATES: January 8th- 31st FEES: Members- Free.

Nonmembers- $10.00 drop in fee Come and meet your friends and have a great time! Join us every Tuesday and Thursday mornings for some Pickleball fun!

AGES: 4th to 6th grades DATE: February 15, 9:00am 3:00pm FEE: $50 We will be exploring Ashcroft for a day on the snow on February 15.

We will explore animal tracks and learn about snow structure. Your child will need to bring a lunch and a backpack for water and clothing layering. Children must be comfortable on skis. We have skis available for your child.

SUMMER PROGRAM GUIDE

RELEASED ON APRIL 1, 2019 Basalt Recreation Department has a slew of fun programming for children. Please check our website in April for details and registration information. Some classes and camps fill quickly, so don’t miss out!

DAYS: Monday TIME: 7:00pm-8:30pm DATES: January- March FEES: Members- Free.

Nonmembers- $10.00 drop in FEE AGES: 16 and up Come and meet your friends and have some fun! Join us every Monday night through March for Drop In Basketball.

DATES: Fridays, October 20 Memorial Day 2019 TIMES: 5:45-8:00pm AGES: 10 to Adult WHERE: BMS Gymnasium. Use the back door next to the football field.

FEE: $2 drop in fee This is a great way for the whole family to get together for some fun competition with the pickleball crowd. Join us on Friday nights for entertaining competition with people from around the valley.

Carbondale RECREATION & COMMUNITY CENTER

567 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale 970.510.1278 carbondalerec.com

PARENT TOT ZUMBA

DATES: Begins January 4 TIME: 12:00 - 12:45 pm FEE: $5, $6/ (non-members) This Zumba program is designed for 2-5 year olds to take with their parents or guardians. Come join the dancing fun.

CHILDREN’S LEVEL 3 CLIMBING

DATES: February 7, 14, 21, 28 TIME: 3:45-4:45pm AGES: 8 + The next step after our Intermediate Climbing Class to better hone your skills! Work on technique, gain climbing strength, and practice more advanced moves. Pre-requisite: Intermediate Climbing Class or instructor approval.

CHILDREN’S LEVEL 1 CLIMBING (BEGINNER)

CHILDREN’S LEVEL 2 CLIMBING (INTERMEDIATE)

DODGEBALL DERIVATIVES

SCHOOL’S OUT TRIP: SILO TRAMPOLINE PARK

DATES: February 4, 11, 25 TIME: mon, 3:45-4:45 pm FEE: $45 / session AGES: 6 - 8 yrs An introductory climbing class for younger children and first-time climbers. This course focuses on building confidence and basic technique through games and fun activities while teaching safe practices, fundamental vocabulary, and an age-appropriate introduction to climbing equipment.

DATES: February 8, 15, 22 AGES: 8-11 YEARS TIME: Fri, 3:30 - 4:30 pm FEE: $40 Hey parents. Do your kids need to run off some energy after school? Do they like throwing things . . . at people? Join C-dale Recreation for some organized and controlled, yet FUN dodgeball action. We use foam dodgeballs and will explore the many variations of the game.

BABY STORYTIME TUESDAYS/ 10:30 AM

Ages: 0 - 24 months Learn songs, bounces and rhymes to share with your child, with a few stories thrown in.

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME WEDNESDAYS / 10:15 - 10:45 AM Ages: 3 - 5 Storytime for preschoolers!

TODDLER STORYTIME WEDNESDAYS / 11:00 - 11:30 AM Ages: 2 - 3 Storytime for toddlers!

AFTERSCHOOL WEDNESDAYS WEDNESDAYS / 2:45 - 4:00 PM

A new activity every week for school aged children. Featuring science experiments, crafts, games and more! Always creative and always fun.

DATES: February 6, 13, 20, 27 TIME: Wed, 3:45-4:45 pm FEE: $60 / session AGES: 8 + This is a great introductory class for your aspiring climber, our certified instructor will cover aspects of safety while providing a fun environment with games and group challenges. The class progresses sequentially and accommodates both beginners and the veteran climber. Give your kiddo a taste at a lifelong sport and climb on!

AGES: 8 - 12 DATE: Friday, March 22 TIME: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm FEE: $55 This outing includes 2 hours of jump time at the Silo Trampoline Park in Grand Junction (trampolines, dodgeball, foam pit, and ninja course). ***Parents please sign the Get Air Waiver during registration. Available online ONLY at https://silo. getairmanagement.com/Waiver. html***

SPECIAL EVENTS ESCAPE ROOM FEB 8 + MARCH 8 / 4:00 PM

Ages 10+, will be given a challenge that will require them to work together to win a prize! Each session will provide a different puzzle to solve and a different theme. Possible scenarios may require literary references, creating a piece of art, video clues, physical challenges, or assistance from a librarian. Participants will unlock multidirectional locks, use UV lights to uncover secret messages, and solve word problems in order to “break out” of their rooms.

FREE SAT PREP COURSE FEB 24/ 3:30 - 5:30 PM

A focus on demonstrating specific strategies for each test section and reviewing a range of English and math topics that are featured on the test. Practice materials and review packets will be provided.

Students should come with a pencil and a calculator.

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W H AT ’ S

H A PPE N I N G

Today?

MONDAY VISIT

M O U N TA I N - PA R E N T. C O M to find more local activities or to submit your events.

NATURE & ME

TUESDAY Rising Crane Training Center 8:30 - 9:15 AM

SWEET PEAS PARENT-CHILD CLASS

During this one-hour class each Monday you will learn about animals, create nature art, sing songs, play games, explore outside, and acquire new tools and ideas that will cultivate your child’s (and your own!) sense of wonder.

(18mo-3yr) RCTC offers a fun way for toddlers-throughpre-school children to move some of their boundless energy, while mothers and fathers look on and assist in the play. A great way to expand your and your child’s circle of friends.

Support and TLC for moms and babes, including homemade organic snack & tea; songs, gentle games for little ones, stretching, meditation and self-care for mothers. Punch passes available for flexibility.

MINI MAKERS

CHILDBIRTH CLASS

This workshop is a “happy happening” for young + aspiring artists! Offered as dynamic drop-off + weekly experience. Artists will explore new, interesting and engaging materials.

Plus tools and techniques for experimentation and creative development. (Ages 3 - 5)

Starting Feb 12 A series to help build confidence in your body’s ability to give birth. Guidance + advice to propel us into an easier birth experience.

You can discuss your concerns about birth with your instructor and other couples that share the same concerns.

MINECRAFT

TIME TRAVEL TUESDAYS

10:00 - 11:00 AM (until March 18) ACES Hallam Lake

Handmakery 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Glenwood Springs Branch Library 4:00 PM Make a library date after school. Find friends, iPads and a multiplayer server set up for playing Minecraft. A good together at the library.

JUMPING JOEYS

The Family Nest 6:00 – 8:30 PM

with the Aspen Historical Society 5:30 PM The Wheeler Opera House A series for tweens, teens and adults Feb 12: “A Conversation with Herbert Bayer and Fabi Benedict.

Feb 19: “Aspen’s Characters: Stories from Strong and ‘Scandalous’ Women.”

Mar 5: “Dogs Rule Aspen”

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WEDNESDAY 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM WSRF

THURSDAY PUBLIC SKATE

Glenwood Springs Community Ice Rink 6:00 – 7:00 PM (970) 384-6304 The Glenwood Springs Community Center Ice Rink is an 85 foot by 200 feet National Hockey League-size, outdoor, covered rink that maintains ice from November through Mid-March (weather permitting).

ROCKY MOUNTAIN KIDS CLUB

FAMILY DAY

A weekly SOCIAL SKILLS GROUP offered to help improve self-esteem; teach how to make and keep friends and prevent meltdowns! Participants will learn to handle themselves with peers and adults in goaldirected, engaging and FUN activities. Practice flexibility, independence, teamwork and awareness of self and others. Call for location and details.

On Thursdays, families receive discounted rates to enjoy all of the Rec Center’s amenities, including outdoor swimming and skating, indoor climbing, basketball, fitness and more. Children must be accompanied by an adult; $40 for a family of four; $10 per person.

AYC / MINDSPRINGS HEALTH RESILIENCY PROGRAM

POTTERY: HAND BUILDING

2:00 – 3:30 PM 4:00 – 5:30 PM

After School Aspen Youth Center

Starting Feb 13. Created for 4th, 5th, and 6th graders: teaching positive psychology and resiliency in order to promote positive well-being.

The classes are fun and easy, focused on recognizing and working with character traits for personal growth, building self-confidence and skills for navigating middle school and beyond.

10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Snowmass Rec Center

Carbondale Clay Center 4:00 – 5:30 PM February 21– March 21 Ages 5+ Kids learn the basics.

Handbuilding techniques include pinch pots, slab and coil building. Instructor: Stephanie Seguin $125 (includes material & firings)

FRIDAY ACES FARM TOURS 11:00 AM Rock Bottom Ranch

See how livestock, hoop houses, and gardens produce through the winter while learning the science behind our vegetable production and livestock rotational grazing system.

Tours are appropriate for all ages and provide opportunities to interact with our livestock and learn where your food comes from!

FRIDAY FAMILY NIGHT 5:00 - 9:00 PM The Monkey House Carbondale

Offering bouldering for all levels (V0 to V10+) in an easyto-follow circuit-set system that is both a great training tool and friendly introduction to the spot. On Fridays only, there are discounted rates for families to enjoy climbing together.

SATURDAY I-PHONE PHOTOGRAPHY SERIES 12:30 – 4:30 PM Starting Feb 2 the Art Base

Mom’s Day Off – Taught

by Summers Moore, this series will help you learn the basics of art photography from a locally celebrated photographer, who will teach you how to achieve pro quality with your I-Phone.

NURSING MOM’S CLUB 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Second Saturday; monthly The Family Nest

Find support and community as you embark on breastfeeding your newborn.

Find Up to date lactation information and latch help.

Welcoming all families.

SUNDAY SNOWSHOE TOUR

10: 30 AM (every day) Ashcroft; King’s Cabin A half-day snowshoe tour followed by a gourmet lunch at the spectacular Pine Creek Cookhouse. Explore the historic Ashcroft ghost town and walk through serene spruce and fir forests and open meadows. Animal tracking, valley geology, avalanches, bird-life, winter habitats, and sub-alpine ecology.

SUMMER ADVENTURE CAMPS

SUNDAY BRUNCH

Kid-friendly from Aspen to Glenwood Springs Spring Cafe 19 S. Spring Street – Aspen

Try Blanca’s Breakfast Sandwich or GF Huevos Rancheros

Fuel Cafe 45 Village Run (upper mall) Snowmass Village

In a hurry to the slopes? On a budget? The Breakfast Burrito is almost big enough to share.

Market Street Kitchen 499 Market Street – Willits

From Mawa, of Mawa’s Kitchen in Aspen, featuring locally sourced eggs, bloody mary bar and crepes.

JUNE 16 - AUGUST 9

Red Rock Diner 155 Hwy 133 – Carbondale

Be sure to ask for the housemade sausage with any brunch entree.

VINYASA & VINO

6:15 PM Kula on Main Street Carbondale Mom’s Night Out or Date-Night-/Worthy Let go of the week and get your weekend started with a powerful cleansing yoga class followed by wine and socializing with fellow yogis.

All levels are welcome.

“SATURDATE” NIGHT WITH CAMP SMASHBOX 3:00 – 9:00 PM Snowmass Chapel

Saturday night is for parents... unless you’re a kid at Smashbox! Actionpacked challenges, rock climbing, games, ice skating, adventures, creations, and so much more fun will be had indoors and out. Come with your snow layers! Space is limited. Registration recommended.

Village Smithy 26 S. 3rd Street – Carbondale THE weekend brunch destination for two generations. Benedicts, Omelets, GF Pancakes, more.

Redstone Inn 82 Redstone Blvd – Redstone Worthy of dressing up, but not formal. Try the Creme Brulee French Toast.

Hotel Colorado 526 Pine Street –GWS

A fun way to experience this historic destination – choose either a sit-down brunch at Baron’s with all the classics; or a fly-by espresso and pastry at Legends.

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W H AT ’ S

H A PPE N I N G

February FIND MORE EVENTS:

M O U N TA I N - PA R E N T. C O M

Looking for something special? designer clothing unique bling beautiful accessories sparkling tableware interior accents select furnishings

970-927-4384 144 Midland Avenue • Basalt www.heirloomsresale.com

~ Monthly support gatherings in Glenwood Springs and Eagle ~ Bereavement care packages ~ Emotional and physical support for any birth in any trimester ~ Bereavement doula services, providing labor and delivery support ~ Walk For Hope, annual event with butterfly release Because you don‛t have to be alone on your journey www.one-moment.org

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FEB 3: CRAFTERNOON

FEB 2: GLENWOOD COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER GRAND OPENING

11:00 AM – 3:00 PM 601 E. 6th Street, next to the Vapor Caves A family friendly fresh start for the community arts center, which is now under the helm of the City of Glenwood Springs. Meet local artists, and participate in hands-on art projects, while getting a taste of the new management of Glenwood’s home for the arts.

FEB 3: SKI FOR SISU- SKIATHON

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM the Art Base Visit the gallery with your children and make a Chinese New Year Dragon or Valentine’s Day craft. See an example of this project in Abby Gierke’s article on pages 9-11.

Spring Gulch 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

FEB 8: SPECIAL OLYMPICS WINTER REGIONAL GAMES

FEB 8: WINTER BIKE TO WORK DAY

FEB 16: ASPEN SANTA FE BALLET

FEB 15-17; 22-24: THE NERD

Sunlight Mountain All Day Cheer for dedicated and amazing athletes as they compete in alpine and snowboarding events. Special Olympics is the largest sports organization in the world, serving over 4.2 million people with intellectual disabilities worldwide.

Fundraiser for the Mount Sopris Nordic Council, which maintains the free Spring Gulch Trial System. Skiers of all ages, abilities, are encouraged to participate.

Snacks and drinks will be provided to keep you gliding.

7:00 -10:00 AM Paepcke Park Bring the family, strollers, bikes, trikes – something fun for riders and walkers of all levels. Food, fun, and prizes. Free fat tire bike demos, safety talks and a group ride. Register to win A Night Out on the Town. City of Aspen Transportation 970-429-2868 for more info.

7:30 PM Aspen District Theatre Enjoy this special one-night-only performance of fan favorites from ASFB’s repertoire – the jazz-inspired Tuplet, Swedish phenom Alexander Ekman’s multimedia exploration of rhythm; Fernando Melo’s perspective-bending Dream Play; and more.

CMC Theatre, Spring Valley Campus 2:00 and 7:00 PM Date Night Worthy – See why this local community college theatre has been recognized nationally among the top community theaters in the U.S. The Nerd is a two-act comedy about what happens to Willum Cubbert “when a nerd comes to dinner and stays...”

FEB 19: FULL MOON SKI

FEB 20-23: ASPEN LAUGH FESTIVAL

5:00 - 8:00 PM Buttermilk / Tiehack Mountain Cool Enough for your Teen. Plan an unforgettable family adventure. Skin up to the Cliffhouse restaurant at the top of Buttermilk for an outdoor fire and å la carte dinner specials, then ski down under the light of the full moon.

FEB 23: AVSC HALL OF FAME DINNER

6:00 PM T Lazy 7 Ranch Kids are welcome to this dinner at the historical T Lazy 7 Ranch, celebrating the generosity, kindness, and leadership of AVSC’s 2019 Inductees, which include: John Bakken, Aspen Gymnastics; The Oates Family; and Aspen Elks Lodge

FEB 26, 27: BANFF CENTRE MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL

7:00 PM Wheeler Opera House Cool Enough for your Teen – the largest mountain film festival in the world (held annually in Banff, Canada every fall) hits the road and visits Aspen.

7:30 and 9:30 PM (See full line-up for details.)

The Wheeler Opera House A Date-Night Worthy lineup of some of the biggest names in stand-up. Not-to-miss: Tig Notaro, a groundbreaking comic from Mississippi whose storytelling about parenting her twin sons with her wife Stephanie will have you chuckling for days.

FEB 2: CHILDREN’S MINI COLLEGE CHOCOLATE EXTRAVAGANZA

Morgridge Commons, Glenwood Springs 5:00 – 8:00 PM It’s a night of all-you-can-eat chocolate, plus wine and savory bites, and a silent auction. One hundred percent of all funds raised go directly to operational expenses and tuition assistance.

FEB 5: PAINT & SIP 6:00 - 8:00 PM

the Art Base Mom’s Night Out – Liz Waters will bring a fun and satisfying painting project, so you can nourish your inner artist – while sipping an adult beverage.

FEB 8: AYC’S FAMILY FEUD

6:00 PM Hotel Jerome Date-Night Worthy: create a team to compete in a hilarious re-enactment of the favorite game show of the 70s and 80s – or plan to join the audience for cocktails, dinner, silent and live auction. Tickets, sponsorships and teams: contact the Aspen Youth Center.

FEB 16: ASCENDIGO BLUE

Hotel Jerome 7:00 PM cocktail reception 8:00 PM dinner & live auction A Date Night Worthy gala event to raise money for Ascendigo Autism Services. Be sure to wear your dancing shoes for the after-dinner live performance of Joshua Tree, the premier U2 tribute band from Boston.

FEB 21: POSITIVE PARENTING SOLUTIONS

5:30 PM Carbondale Middle School This free event will be on positive parent solutions and essential brain science that all parents should know. This event is for families of all ages and will provide free dinner and childcare. For more info, contact Angela Fullerton at RE1 (970) 384- 5691.

FEB 2: ROARING FORK CONSERVANCY IRON FLY COMPETITION 4-10 PM

The Tipsy Trout, Basalt Fundraiser with the Roaring Fork Valley Fly Fishing Club A fly tying competition. Competitors are given secret and funky materials that must be used in each fly. Adult division + Youth division, ages 16 and under.

A SPOILED PET IS A HAPPY PET.

FEB 6: PALS SUPPORT GROUP MEETING

Yampah Mountain High School 6:30 – 8 PM; Weekly 970-945-9463 Free support group for parents or anyone trying to cope with somebody that has addiction issues.

FEB 14: BLIND DATE W/ A BOOK FOR TEENS

12:00 PM Basalt Regional Library Are you up for a mysterious date this Valentine’s Day? We’ll set you up with a wrapped book from our YA collection. You won’t know the author or title of the book--you’ll have to judge it by the “pickup line” written on the cover. Will it be love at first read? Or a total disaster?

FEB 18: PREPARING FOR RETIREMENT

6:30 – 9:30 PM CMC Glenwood Springs It’s never too early to start planning for your retirement.

This one-night course covers everything from retirement benefits to work-life transitions. The price of this dynamic and collaborative course makes it a datenight worthy option. ($35)

~Established 1995 ~ M-F 9am- 6:30 pm + Weekends 10am-5pm 970-963-1700 + RJPaddywacks.com Next to City Market in El Jebel FOR ALL OF YOUR PETS’ WINTER NEEDS

Enroll now!

FEB 22-23: CIRQUE DU SOPRIS

Carbondale Arts 6:00 PM Third Street Center, Community Hall The annual Kids Fashion and Talent Show, showcasing original clothing designs imagined and created by local children – then presented runway-style with fun music, choreography and a spotlight on kid-created performance art.

FEB 26: BLACK HISTORY LIVE: MAYA ANGELOU

4:00 PM CMC Spring Valley Campus An engaging way to introduce your teen to a cherished poetic voice of the 20th century. Scholar / Actor Becky Stone will portray Maya Angelou as part of Colorado Humanities’ annual tour. Free and open to everyone.

Youthentity

Youth Career Internship Programs

Open to all high school students Learn real-world skills Earn class credits

PHOTO

(courtesy of Aspen Valley Ski Club) Do you know that the Silver Queen Gondola on Aspen Mountain is one of the longest single-stage gondolas in North America? The ride from the Little Nell to the Sundeck gains more than 8000 vertical feet in 14 minutes.

Career Ready, Life Ready. youthentity.org 57

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W H AT ’ S

H A PPE N I N G

March SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS:

MAR 1: SUNLIGHT MOUNTAIN’S DEFIANCE CHALLENGE

MAR 1: YOUTHENTITY’S PROSTART COOKING COMPETITION

MAR 2: VIVA KID FLICKS

MAR 6: ASPEN SCIENCE CENTER PHYSICS CAFE

All Day A 10-hour race that tests the endurance of individuals and teams competing for the most vertical feet hiked up the mountain and skied down.

M O U N TA I N - PA R E N T. C O M

MAR 1: JAS CAFE WITH OLA ONABULE

8:00 PM The Little Nell Cool enough for your Teen musician, though also Date Night Worthy. Discover the vocal virtuosity of OLA ONABULE, an accomplished storyteller and powerful musician. Performance includes a “Listen Up! Talk” with the artist 45 minutes prior to show time. Dinner options available. Tickets at JAS Aspen.

MAR 11: RAISING HUMANS IN A DIGITAL WORLD

5:00 – 7:30 PM Waldorf School on the Roaring Fork Diana Graber, co-author of our Slow Media Diet article (pages 38-40) and winner of the 2017 Media Literacy Teacher award will speak about how parents can support our children in building a safe and healthy relationship with Snapchat, Fortnite, Instagram and more.

MAR 15-31: SPRING BREAK

For families planning a Stay-Cation during these weeks off school, Aspen-Snowmass has planned something fun for all ages – from S’mores on the Snowmass Mall and 4 Mountain Scavenger Hunts for youner skiers – to to a lineup of concerts that will lure your college-age kids to bring their friends home for the break.

2:30 PM The Temporary, Willits Audience favorite and award-winning short films from New York International Children’s Film Festival, the nation’s largest film festival for kids and teens. Featuring a new Spanish-language program of animated, documentary, and live action films full of warmth, wit, and the cultural richness from Mexico.

MAR 16: MOONLIGHT ADVENTURE FOR THE ALMOST THE WHOLE FAMILY

5:30 – 9:00 PM. Snowmass Cross Country Ski Area / Anderson Ranch Nordic skiers who are old enough to stay up late will enjoy this easy-to-moderate full moon ski around the Snowmass Golf Course, with a stop for hot chocolate and cookies at Anderson Ranch. Optional 3 course pasta dinner, Black Saddle Bar and Grille. Reservations required. 970-923-0929

MAR 17: CRAFTERNOON

10 AM - 12 PM the Art Base Visit the gallery and participate in art and craft making for the whole family in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day.

Johnson & Wales University Event Center, Denver Carbondale-based YouthEntity will send a team of high school ProStart students to participate in an this annual culinary competition, vying for more than $750,000 in scholarships through both a Culinary Competition and Hospitality Management Competition. Open to all.

4:30 PM Cafe 5:30 PM Lecture Wheeler Opera House Cool enough for your teen. Prominent physicists share cutting-edge research in a language accessible to everyone who takes in interest in the science of the future.

MAR 13: MOUNTAIN PARENT EVENT BUILDING BRIDGES: DR. WILLIAM BLEDSOE A RESTORATIVE WAY THROUGH FAMILY CONFLICT 7:00 – 9:00 PM Third Street Center, Carbondale Is your child coming home with stories of bullying?

Or does your teen seem unreachable?

Are you exhausted by sibling bickering?

Dr. William Bledsoe has helped us view these challenges through a Restorative lens in a series of three MOUNTAIN PARENT Features.

(See page 23 for his latest installment) Because of widespread positive feedback from our readers, we are partnering with Dr. Bledsoe to offer an evening mini-workshop for parents – at a price that is significantly reduced from Dr. Bledsoe’s typical fees. $25 per person; $35 per couple.

Scholarships Available SIGN UP: (720) 663-0333 www.restorativeway.com

SINCE THE BEST THINGS IN LIFE ARE FREE...

ICE SKATING

Gus Darien Arena, Carbondale The Rodeo arena becomes an under-the-lights skate rink while the ice lasts. Be aware that this is the location of several community-league team practices – so you might need to wait and watch the big kids until the rink is open.

Here are a few local favorite FREEBIES for something to do every day.

SLEDDING

The Aspen Rec Center (ARC) The fastest, longest sled run around, and when you need to warm up, you can enjoy hot tea, cocoa and other fuel at the snack bar inside the Rec Center.

River Valley Ranch, Carbondale When snow covers the golf course, you can find a perfect sled hill on the practice range. Bring a picnic blanket, and set up camp on top.

Marion Gulch, outside Carbondale A bit of a drive, and a hike –but it’s worth it. Take Thompson Creek Road West to Marion Cemetary Lane. There is public access through 3/4 mile private property to US Forest Service land. Please respect private property. No cell service, so plan accordingly.

NORDIC SKIING

Aspen / Snowmass Visit the Aspen Cross Country Center to find maps and info about more than 60 miles of free groomed tracks between Aspen, Snowmass and Basalt.

Carbondale Spring Gulch is maintained by the Mount Sopris Nordic Council, a local nonprofit that grooms and manages 13 miles of secluded trails up Thompson Creek Road. Also, while the snow lasts at lower elevations, the Rio Grande Trial along Catherine Store Road offers a quick workout within steps of downtown.

4th Street Plaza, Carbondale An iconic downtown rink, complete with overhead bulbs and the bustle of nearby shops and restaurants. Hockey pucks are not allowed in this rink –good for nearby shop windows, and for little ones learning to skate.

Redstone Park, Redstone A small rink that stays colder and shadier longer than other nearby skate rinks, which extends the season for this destination. Free skates are available to borrow.

PHOTO

Ms. Joy Love’s preschool class at the Children’s Rocky Mountain School in Carbondale walked the short half-block from their campus to the Catherine Store trailhead for an afternoon ski.

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O U T&

A BO U T

Grandparents and other special friends of ROSS MONTESSORI SCHOOL students enjoyed a morning on campus, spending time in the classrooms seeing firsthand how the unique curriculum is met by the individual child. ROARING FORK HIGH SCHOOL’S choral and guitar teacher Ms. Marcia Kuhlman orchestrated the second annual “Holiday Harmonies” event at The Orhard. Not only did she conduct CMS and RFHS groups, she also spearheaded a dessert fund raiser with silent auction to support the school’s music and drama programs. ASPEN VALLEY SKI CLUB’S annual Audi Ajax Cup ski race is the nonprofit organization’s largest fundraising event. This year, the event saw record success, raising more than 900K, with 16 teams, each with a professional racer in the mix – supporting the organization in providing more opportunities for local children.

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CARBONDALE’S FIRST FRIDAY CELEBRATION centered around the 4th Street Plaza rink, where Yeti Eric Brendlinger, the Town’s P&R Director, made the “Family Skate Night” and aboninably fun time. MOUNTAIN FAMILY HEALTH cut the ribbon in January on their new state-of-the-art Basalt Integrated Health Center. GLENWOOD SOCCER CLUB coach Brad Jordon created a highly competitive girls team from AHS, BHS, RFHS, CRMS and GHS, hoping to bring local players to the attention of college recruiters. The team won the Desert Super Cup tournament in Pheonix, AZ, and has been invited to compete next month in the Mayor’s Cup in Las Vegas, NV. THE ASPEN/ SNOWMASS WINTERSKOL FESTIVAL celebrated its 67th year with snow sculptures, fireworks, an evening torchlight descent on Aspen Mountain, a canine fashion show, fat-bike races on the snow, après ski parties, and more.

IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED WHAT A WALDORF EDUCATION COULD OFFER YOUR CHILD?

The Waldorf developmental approach to early childhood education is where joy, wonder, curiousity and exploration are nurtured and encouraged. Bring your child and experience a morning together in our nature-based preschool and kindergarten programs.

FEBRUARY 12 MARCH 2 9 - 11 a.m.

Please RSVP to Catherine Woolcott Catherine@waldorfschoolrf.org or call 970-963-1960

www.

waldorfSchoolrf.org 61

Up Next...

APRIL

I

M AY

SUMMER SIGN UPS CAMP

TH E

MOUNTAINPARENT G U I D E TO K I DS’ PROG R A M M I N G

What? Summer Camp? It’s not yet even Spring Break!

The snow is fabulous and continuing to fall, thank heaven. And it’s already time to think about what your children will do during three fun months of free time starting next June. You’ll have deadlines, meetings, appointments – plus your own summer bucket list.

So, shall it be....

Arts & CrAfts. Rock & Roll. Horses. Theatre. Hiking. Biking. Swimming.

Soccer. Tennis. Golf. Trampoline & Trapeze. BluegrAss. Clay. Driver’s Ed. DAnCe. Rock Climbing. Orchestra. gArDening. Sleepaway. Dinosaurs.

Creative Writing.

PHotogrAPHy. Gymnastics.

Or all of the above?

Advertising Reservation Deadline: Wednesday, March 6 Summer programs and others wishing to connect with local households and visiting families from Aspen to Glenwood Springs 62

Please Contact Lauren Suhrbier, Publisher (970) 319-3939

www.MOUNTAIN-PARENT.com

S

You're proud to call Colorado home. So are we. Since 1973, we've been giving back to the communities where we live, work and play across our great state, and we're here to stay. If you're looking for an independent, locally managed community bank, where the employees are also the owners, we would like to be your bank.

We’re Alpine Bank.

I N D E P E N D E N C E • C O M M U N I T I E S • C O M PA S S I O N • I N T E G R I T Y • LO YA LT Y

alpinebank.com | Member FDIC 63

Help us build homes. Shop the ReStore!

When you shop for gently-used (and some new!) furniture, home furnishings, appliances, building materials and more at Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore, you will not only get great stuff at great prices, you will also help us build homes with local families in need of affordable housing. Over the past 19 years, we have built 33 homes. In the next three years, we will build 27 more. Yes, you read that right! Our Basalt Vista Affordable Housing Community will provide 27 homes for purchase by teachers and others in our local workforce. So come see why we are considered the best ReStore in the country and help us build homes with families right here in the valley. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.

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Learn more, schedule a FREE donation pick-up, or to sign up to volunteer at HabitatRFV.org