Mendo Lake Family Life May 2014

mendo lake

Summer Camp

May 2014

BIG

Guide

78 May

FUN activities & events

Enter to Win

Sweepstakes

Fun Outdoor

Family

Adventures

8

May 2014

Feature Stories 3 Quiz: How Well Do You Know the Modern American Mom? Take this quiz and find out.

6 Happy Wife Happy Life Cool stuff for you and your family.

8 Get Out & Play Experience magical waterfalls, glide through water, and hunt treasures as a family.

11 Mother’s Day Crafts for Kids A handy bouquet will make mom smile.

12 College Bound Giving Mendocino graduates the competitive college advantage.

11

18 Summer Camp Adventure Guide Find the perfect camp for your child.

32 Family Life Celebrate Mom Sweepstakes

Every Issue

18 2 MendoLakeFamilyLife

4

Dear Readers

24 Calendar of Events

5

Bits and Pieces

It’s About Time

Calling All You Do It Yourselfers!

The little Club That Could

Kelseyville’s Junior Giants Baseball

Not Your Average Baseball Story

29 Classifieds 30 Humor Break

MendoLakeFamilyLife.com May 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Take this Quiz:

How Well Do You Know Modern American Mom?

See the answers at SonomaFamilyLife.com 4. In the past decade, has the age of the first-time mom: A. Increased B. Decreased C. Stayed the same 5. Who is the most likely to attend her child’s extracurricular activities?

1. Which is the most common type of family household (at least two people related by birth, marriage, or adoption)?

A. Married with kids B. Married without kids C. Other family 2. The percent of moms who stay at home has _______________ in the past decade: A. Increased B. Decreased C. Stayed the same 3. What percent of family households are “Leave it to Beaver” households, with a working dad and a stay-at-home mom, by year?

3-1. In 1970?

A. 20% B. 40% C. 60% 3-2. In 2012?

A. 20% B. 40%

C. 60%

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

9. How are mom’s media usage habits changing versus last year? For each activity, indicate if it is increasing, decreasing, or staying the same: 9-1. Facebook A. Increasing B. Decreasing C. Staying the Same

A. Stay at Home Moms B. Part-Time Working Moms C. Full-Time Working Moms

9-2. Instagram A. Increasing B. Decreasing C. Staying the Same

6. Who is more likely to say “my child needs a college education in order to get a good job”?

9-3. Cellphone A. Increasing B. Decreasing C. Staying the Same

A. Mom B. Dad C. Both equally agree 7. When does a mom start to make more time for herself rather than do fun things with her kids?

A. When the kids are < 3 B. When the kids are 3-6 C. When the kids are 7-12 D. When the kids are 13-17 E. Never

8. What are moms doing the most on their smart phones?

A. Family schedule B. Play games C. Text while shopping D. Online coupons E. Find restaurants May 2014

9-4. YouTube A. Increasing B. Decreasing C. Staying the Same 9-5. Pinterest A. Increasing B. Decreasing C. Staying the Same 9-6. Email A. Increasing B. Decreasing C. Staying the Same 10. Among moms on Facebook, what percent go on three or more times per day?

A. 15% B. 30%

C. 45%

MendoLakeFamilyLife 3

Dear Reader

May is such an exciting month and summer is fast approaching! Our Summer Camp Adventure Guide Sharon Gowan on page 18 gives Publisher/Editor Sharon@family-life.us you lots of great options so you can choose the perfect camp for your child. And John Corippo shares some great ways to get outside and play on page 8.

You may be a mom, but the answers to our “How Well Do You Know The American Mom” quiz may surprise you. Choose your answers and see if you’re right. Mother’s Day is in May and we have our feature editor’s picks for exciting products for moms on page

6. And we have some great crafts that you or dad can do with your kids so they can create a unique gift for Mom’s special day. And don’t forget to find the perfect Mother’s Day activity in our events calendar.

Office Manager Patricia Ramos patty@family-life.us

Also graduation is around the corner.

College Bound, is a local business that is making sure high school students have the competitive edge they need to get into their dream school. See Carol Brodsky’s story on page 12. We at Mendo Lake Family Life hope you have a happy Mother’s Day, a month full of exciting outdoor adventures, and a wonderful summer full of fun activities.

Business Marketing Renee Nutcher renee@family-life.us Jolie Cook jolie@family-life.us Karlon Baker karlon@family-life.us

Features Editor Ann Ingraham ann@family-life.us

Production Manager Donna Bogener production@family-life.us

SPRING ON DOWN TO LITTLE CAESARS

Marketing Jordan Lewis jordan@family-life.us

For FREE

Calendar Patricia Ramos

Crazy Bread & Sauce

Contributing Writers

with ANY pizza purchase.

180 Ford Rd. Ukiah, Ca. 462-7646

John Corippo Jessica Snowden Carole Brodsky Veronica Blaustein

exp. 7/1/14 must present coupon.

One per visit, per day.

Billing Jan Wasson-Smith Publishing Office 100 Professional, Center Dr., #104 Rohnert Park, CA 94928

Individuals • Families • Events

Tel 707-586-9562 Fax 707-586-9571

BobRiderPhotography.com • (707)245-5321

4 MendoLakeFamilyLife

May 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Bits & Pieces

It’s About Time

T

he Time Bank of Thrive Lake County reached its 400th member on Sunday, April 13, 2014. Time Banking is a community currency based on hours where members exchange time instead of cash. Every person’s hour is equal without regard to the service provided. The Time Bank is open to any Lake County resident, business, or organization.

“It’s taken us less than nine months to go from 300 to 400 members,” says John Saare, North Lake and Technical Coordinator for the Time Bank of Thrive Lake County. “Time Banking is starting to really become an alternative currency in this county, as it already is in many other parts of the country and abroad.” The next free meetup for new and prospective members is on Saturday, May 10 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Clearlake Youth Center at 4750 Golf Avenue, Clearlake. A social event will follow the meetup. Visit their website at timebanklakeco. org or call 413-0220. ¶

The little Club That Could

Not Your Average Baseball Story

J

ackie and Me: A Very Special Friendship by Tania Grossinger (Sky Pony Press, April 2013, ages 5–8) is the remarkable true story of thirteen-year-old Tania Grossinger’s first meeting with Jackie Robinson. In Jackie and Me, as Tania learns important life lessons from Jackie—“You should never be ashamed of who you are. That is what makes you special!”—so will the children who turn the pages. ¶

T

here’s a new service club in town. In January of this year the Active 20-30 Club of Ukiah #78 was formed to help local children through fundraising and service projects. The club’s leadership positions include: President, Brian Bunt; President-Elect, Ivan Pantaleon; Vice-President, Ashley Downing; Communications Director, Mo Mulheren; Treasurer, Alexander Rich; and Board Members, Carolina Maturana and Alysia Barnes.

The club is made up of adults age 20–39 and has raised over $5,000 that will be donated to at-risk youth programs throughout Mendocino County.

The Active 20-30 Club of Ukiah #78 is a new club but is already growing. If you have history or memorabilia to share of past versions of the Active 20-30 Club of Ukiah, you would like to partner with this club, make a donation, or are interested in becoming a member, please contact Mo Mulheren at 707- 462-6636. ¶

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

May 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 5

Happy

Wife

Our Editor’s Picks for Mother’s Day

Happy I

Life

n May we celebrate all you moms who work so hard in and outside of your home kissing booboos and holding crying children and dancing in your living rooms and making gluten-free muffins and working to pay for horse camp and paying your kids’ college educations. The list of what moms take care of never ends, but sometimes you’ve got to stop and smell the roses. We thought these products would help bring a smile to your face and encourage you to enjoy the upcoming summer with your family a little more.

Bling for Mama, Fun for Baby

Smart Mom LLC’s Teething Bling™ is ‘teethable’ jewelry. Their pendants and bangles are made for an adult to wear, but are safe for curious babies to handle and chew. It is made from a commonly-used, medical-grade, food safe silicon, the same material found in many teething toys and other baby products, such as ‘coated’ infant spoons—and they’re pretty. Finally, they’re staffed entirely by moms. $25 and up. smartmomjewelry.com.

Girls Clothes Without The Girly

Created by a mom with an active girl who loves sports, climbing trees, and superheroes, Girls Will Be is working to empower young girls to be themselves and never feel like they need to conform to the increasingly narrow definition of “girl” reflected in far too many of the clothes (and other products) marketed to them. They create clothes to fit girls ages four to twelve that are not pink, ruffly, or too short, instead find comfortable cargo shorts, green shirts with thumbprints stating “I Am Me,” rocket prints, and robots. $24–$34. girlswillbehq.com.

6 MendoLakeFamilyLife

May 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Product Review The Efficient Beach Bum

The Lazee Move Combo is a design that provides ease in getting to the beach and unmatched comfort once there. It features three products in one—a chair, cart, and table. Smoothly cart your kite, bucket, shovels, snacks, and drinks on this cart over sand and sidewalks. There’s even a slotted umbrella holder and a pull-out platform extension for additional hauling capacity. Then fold out the chair for lounging, the table for snacking, and have a fun day playing at the beach! $309.99. beachtuff.com.

Smell Pretty All Day

Poppy drops perfume sticks are made for the mom-on-the-go to add a beautiful scent between the office, gym, and home. Made from just three simple ingredients, coconut oil, beeswax, and natural fragrances, it’s safe for everyone from moms-to-be to children. Try warm sugar, island honey, powder fresh, watermelon cucumber, or flower petal. $8.99. poppydrops.com.

Save the Planet Ride a Bike

How do you take action against environmental degradation, build community, and repair a vehicle dependent society—ride a bike!

Based in Petaluma, Yuba Bikes creates cargo pedal and electric bikes to carry groceries, kids, or whatever you need to transport in an eco-friendly way. So slow down this summer, remember that childlike joy of biking, and check out a Yuba bike. $999.00—$3,199. Yubabikes.com. www.mendolakefamilylife.com

May 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 7

Family Fun

Get Out & Play

By John Corippo

N

orthern California is a wonderland of beaches with craggy rocks, trees that reach up and touch the clouds, and hillsides filled with trails through wildflowers and meadows that all beckon for a family adventure. Mendocino, Lake, and Sonoma counties especially offer a plethora of nature to explore with your kids, from the redwoods near the coastline to the mountains and lakes inland it is hard to find a region with more to offer young explorers. Springtime, before the blazing hot weather arrives to scorch the land, is the perfect time to set up outings for your family to investigate this incredible region and make a lasting memory.

8 MendoLakeFamilyLife

See Russian Gulch Falls

Waterfalls are Magical Legends tell us that waterfalls are surrounded by magic, whether it’s mystical creatures that hide in the falls or the water diving over the edge and striking the rocks below that fill the air with supercharged energy.

There are three relatively easy hikes nearby that pay off in a spectacular fashion when you arrive at a gushing waterfall.

Russian Gulch Falls is located in Russian Gulch State Park two miles north of the town of Mendocino. Entering the park and driving through the campground you will find the Fern Canyon Trail parking area; there is an $8.00 day-use fee per vehicle. The Fern Canyon trail head is a meandering paved section through a beautiful canopy of tan oaks, Douglas firs, and redwoods that is great for a bicycle ride. Eventually you’ll arrive at some picnic tables, which is where you’ll have to secure your bikes. About 100 feet from the tables you’ll see the sign for the waterfall loop which is .75 mile to the left and 1.75 miles to the right, both sections are beautiful and it really just depends on how much you want to work to get to the falls.

Once you arrive at the falls you’re greeted by a thirty-five foot waterfall with fallen redwoods at its base. Take the time to watch this gorgeous May 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

spectacle from different angles and see how new plants have taken root in their fallen brethren.

Chamberlain Falls is located on Hwy. 20 approximately seventeen miles east of Fort Bragg. Turning left on Road 200 (which is unmarked, but directly past the Chamberlain Creek bridge), drive a mile up the dirt road and bear left at the fork, it’s another 3.5 miles to the trailhead that is marked with a wooden railing on the left side of the road. Taking the stairs from the

railing down it is about a ten-minute hike to the base of Chamberlain Falls, which has a black cliff jutting out of the forest and Chamberlain Creek spills fifty feet down its face.

The trail is surrounded by dense ferns, sorrel and oaks, firs and redwoods and can get slippery with wet leaves so keep careful footing.

Perhaps the easiest and most surprising waterfall to get to is Sonoma Creek Falls in Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. This fall is hidden just 0.4 or “less than half a mile” off of the road, and it runs in an area that

is known for being warm and dry—the two biggest enemies of waterfalls.

From Santa Rosa take Hwy. 12 east for eleven miles to Adobe Canyon Road. Turn left and drive for 3.5 miles to the park entrance; there is an $8.00 day-use fee per vehicle.

Once you’ve parked you’ll cross the road to the trailhead to the Canyon Trail. From there it is a descent into the substantial oaks, madrones and alders to the twenty-five-foot falls.

The falls are surrounded by wet, slippery moss-covered boulders, so again be careful when exploring.

Gliding across the surface of a lake is as close to walking on water as we have come up with so far. Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP) gives you that feeling and access to waterways new and familiar from a brand new standpoint, literally.

SUP takes away some of the barriers that even a kayak or canoe can place between you and the water, but prepare to take a dip especially when you are first learning this sport.

Fortunately Blue Lakes, Lake Sonoma, and Lake Mendocino are refreshing and rejuvenating after breaking a sweat from paddling.

SUP is one of the fastest growing sports for good reason. Not only does SUP offer a tremendous whole-body workout, but it can give you a chance www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Photos by John Corippo

Walking on Water

John Corippo’s son l. to r. Robby and Cody enjoy paddleboarding with their dad.

to explore all the varied waterways of an area up close from a new perspective. SUP is a long surf board that you paddle with a long paddle through lakes, rivers, and you can even catch some waves on the coast.

There are also boards that cater to the fisherman and make it easy to reel in your latest story.

May 2014

Children can sit at your feet and discover a whole new world. Kids like to imagine being pirates, warriors, or adventuring pioneers discovering a new land. In fact having a kid along for the ride will enhance the trip—it’s amazing what they spot that you would have passed right on by. Older offspring will find the freedom of paddling exciting.

MendoLakeFamilyLife 9

HEALTHY The writer exploring with his boys and dog Daisey.

FARM FRESH FOODS FOR YOUR FAMILY

Join a CSA Today!

Find a CSA (Community-Supported Agriculture) farm near you by visiting www.MendocinoLocalFood.org

KICK IT OUT!

Treasure Hunting Another great opportunity for taking advantage of the outdoors is the sport of geocaching. Geocaching is simply a treasure hunt using GPS coordinates. Today anyone with a smart phone with GPS capabilities has the tools to become a geocacher.

• Respect • Discipline • Self Confidence LET US HELP YOU FIND YOURS

Lake County Martial Arts 1624 Parallel Dr, Lakeport,

263-0706

To geocache you look up the coordinates of a cache and enter them in your electronic device. There are now several apps available that make this easy on the potential treasure seeker. Then, like a modern-day pirate, it’s out into the wild to find the booty. Simply follow your electronic treasure map to the X that is marking the spot. Some caches are easier to find than others so be sure to bring your eagle eyes. Once you find the cache it is geocache etiquette to “take something, leave something.” You may find foreign coins, military patches, or a silver surfer action figure. The kids will lead the charge to find caches such as “The Duck Stop,” “The King Cache of Mendo Rock,” or “Uva gotta find this cache!” Each cache usually has a journal that you sign in to mark your discovery and view the history of the stash.

The highest rated geocaching sites are geocaching.com, navicache.com, GPSgames.org and opencaching.us and will provide detailed directions for getting started and downloading an app for assisting in your hunt.

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In the end, just getting outdoors with your family is going to make for a great day. What matters is getting out as a family and finding your own adventures. ¶ John Corippo is a husband and father to two sons that lives in Ukiah. John is also a fire captain, paramedic, hazmat specialist, journalist, college instructor, avid sports fan, and stand up paddleboard representative.

May 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Crafts for Moms

Mother’s Day Crafts for Kids Handy Bouquet

by Jessica Snowden

Moms love being remembered on special days. Dad, you’ll win lots of points by helping your child create these personalized gifts for Mother’s Day. Create a unique bouquet, a personalized bookmark or a silhouette to tell mom how much she is loved.

What you’ll need.

All moms love flowers. The great thing about these flowers is that they stay beautiful without water or sun, and they’re made from your child’s handprints!

What you’ll need: Five pieces of construction paper, Green chenille stems—1 for each flower, 8–10 inches green ribbon, Pencil, Ruler, Scissors, Stapler.

Jessica’s nephew Hudson

➏

alized to make a person Find directions at te silhouet bookmark and a Life.com ily am SonomaF

❶

What you do: 1. Spread your fingers and trace your child’s hand on the colored paper with the pencil. Do this on each color so you have several flowers.

2. Cut the handprint around the pencil lines. At the bottom of the handprint, roll the paper from the thumb to the side where the pinkie is. Put aside.

3. Bend the chenille stems over about 1 inch from the top. Place the bent end inside the curved handprint. Line up the bent piece of stem at the bottom of the handprint.

4. Roll the hand at the bottom to create a cone where the stem is. Staple the bottom of the cone across the chenille stem. Do this for all of your hand print flowers.

❷ ❸

5. Use the pencil to roll all of the fingers of the handprints outward from the center of the flower. This will create a blossoming flower.

6. When you’ve finished all of the flowers, put them into a bouquet. Use the green ribbon to tie all the stems together underneath the blossoms. These are the leaves. Put them into an empty glass or on a tray for Mom’s breakfast in bed. www.mendolakefamilylife.com

May 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 11

College Bound

By Carole Brodsky

Mendocino County team helps families with college applications

12 MendoLakeFamilyLife

College Acceptance Multiple Challenges

I

Ezra Post, CEO of College Bound, looks out at the newly constructed library at Mendocino Community College.

by launching College Bound. “This business is about doing what it takes to get students accepted into a range of schools that are right for them,” Post explains.

t wasn’t yesterday, but Ezra Post, a Ukiah High School Spanish instructor vividly recalls the stress and haphazardness of applying for college. “I was overwhelmed. I didn’t know where to begin. I was eligible for certain universities, and my brother took me to visit UC Santa Cruz. That’s where I ended up, and luckily, I loved the school,” smiles Post.

Initially, Post tailored College Bound for the international market, motivated by his success selecting a school for the daughter of a friend living in Russia. He developed a client base and became a member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association.

For more than a decade Post has observed his students and their families struggling with similar challenges when applying to college.

Last year, he addressed those issues

The scope of the business expanded when Post joined forces with Lauren Bishop, a Stanford graduate and Ukiah native. “Students in our area are somewhat disadvantaged, if you

May 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

consider that other communities offer college advising at the middle-school level. We want to help students succeed in a very competitive environment. If you work toward college systematically over several years, it’s much easier,” Bishop notes.

College Bound provides an array of individualized services to students and families. They assist college applicants who require intensive support and students who may only need targeted assistance. They work with students locally in person and across the country via Skype and email.

College Prep Starts Yesterday!

Parents should commence their planning for college during their

Join Us! Move More

child’s freshman or sophomore year, stresses Post. “When students are seniors, the field has really narrowed. Your senior GPA doesn’t even count in the UC system.”

“Sticker prices [for college] are meaningless,” Lauren Bishop

Post and Bishop begin the process with comprehensive parent-student interviews that address a variety of issues including areas of study, targeted schools, financial considerations, academics, and preferred college locations. From these interviews, they compile a list of universities divided into ‘safety’

+

Find out more at MoveMore2014.org www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Making mistakes is costly. “We had a straight-A student who wanted to attend a UC but had enrolled in non-honors classes. It was a quick fix but it took an expert intervening to recognize the problem,” Post notes.

The Importance of The Application Essay A standout personal statement is essential for college acceptance.

MORE THAN A HOSpiTAl YOUR LOCAL PARTNER

2014

Join hundreds of Lake County residents who pledge to get more physical activity in 2014.

schools likely to offer acceptance and highly coveted ‘dream’ schools.

They examine class schedules, make course recommendations based on college entrance requirements, and help track dates and deadlines, as well as assist students with the mechanics and technicalities involved with the actual application filing process.

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MendoLakeFamilyLife 13

“We help draw out a story within the student that speaks to our humanity, that has a sense of soul. College application packets are cold and clinical. The essay tells a college counselor if you are checking off the boxes to get into college or if you have heart and intellectual curiosity,” says Post.

“One client had less than a 3.0 GPA and wanted to attend a UC, which officially require a minimum 3.0 GPA to be considered for admission.

I didn’t expect him to be accepted with a GPA that low. We focused on the essay. I knew when I read it that the admissions officers would see who he was. Sure enough, he was accepted at three UC’s, and his family received the maximum

amount of financial aid they were eligible for,” Post continues.

Bishop suggests seniors begin essay work this summer, as soon as questions are released. “Starting in June or July means that application due dates will come and go with significantly less stress. Working with a professional helps keep students accountable. Parents don’t have to nag. Everyone’s happier, especially when the acceptance letters arrive.”

Dreams For College Coming True “I’ve been accepted to UCLA!” Monica Ruiz, 18, a senior at Ukiah High School receives a huge hug from Bishop as they celebrate the

See how to

PLAY

receipt of yet another acceptance letter.

“All my life, my parents helped me be the best person I could. They struggled financially, and college

A standout personal statement is essential for college acceptance. was my way out. Luckily I enjoy learning and it’s become my passion,” says Ruiz.

“Working with Lauren was the best decision I’ve ever made. As a first generation college applicant, I had lots to learn. My essay questions were pretty obscure, and I didn’t know how to portray my life and get

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it on paper. Lauren really helped me bring out who I was,” she continues.

So far, Ruiz has been accepted to ten of the twenty schools she applied for, and is optimistic she will soon have many additional options to choose from. Along with acceptance at all the UC’s she applied to, Ruiz is a finalist for the Gates Millennium scholarship.

“My mom cries every time I get another acceptance letter. She says, ‘We gave you wings and now you’re flying,’” Ruiz smiles.

Increasing Success with A Higher SAT Score When Bishop was in high school, she took an SAT prep course in Sonoma County, improving her

score by 350 points.

“My first score wasn’t good enough to get me into Stanford, but I wasn’t prepared to give up on my dream school. My score increase was particularly dramatic, but a good SAT prep course almost always yields higher scores. I wanted to bring that opportunity to students in our area,” she continues.

College Bound’s first SAT workshop began in April and has been a resounding success so far, says Post.

“In Sonoma County there are dozens of programs available. There were no options here. Our kids should be

CELEBRATE!

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May10 1-5 th

L to R: Lauren Bishop of College Bound and Monica Ruiz discuss college plans.

on par with the rest of the country.

Studying for the SAT is one step kids can take to be competitive players at elite universities,” says Post, noting that future workshops are planned.

It Takes More Than Good Grades “These days, don’t expect to get into specific schools with only a great

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Clearlake

Youth Center Lake County Youth Services is a non profit program serving the youth ages 7 thru 17.

We will be providing after school programs Mon–Fri, 2 to 6pm where children can get homework help, enjoy fun activities and a snack. We will also facilitate special activity programs throughout the year. For information on programs please call.

OPEN MON - FRI FROM 2PM -6PM COST $15 A WEEK. The Jr Giants Sign Up: during operational hours contact us for more info.

2ND ANNUAL

Youth Fest

JUNE 28TH 10AM TO 4PM MUSIC FOOD & FUN FOR EVERYONE • FREE TO THE PUBLIC

VENDORS WANTED

TO BE A VENDOR CONTACT KARLON BAKER 350-3245

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT! EVERY DOLLAR COUNTS Want a tax deduction, donate your old vehicle.

Call Enterprise Towing at 707 994-8801 and they will pick it up!

Must have title

To make a monetary donation: send to: Attn: Youth Center P.O. Box 1042 Lower Lake CA 95457 Please make checks out to LCPF/ Youth Center

Board Meetings are the 2nd Tuesday of each month @6pm at the Center 707-994-KIDS 4750 Golf Ave., Clearlake clearlakeyouthcenter.org 16 MendoLakeFamilyLife

GPA. Straight A’s alone won’t get you in to every UC campus,” Post explains. Community service or other extracurricular activities are essential.

“Twenty hours in your junior year won’t cut it.”

“If kids are applying for competitive scholarships, especially with elite universities, they need to demonstrate school or community activities that merit that scholarship. We’re helping students create those opportunities,” he notes.

Junior College and Trade Schools College Bound also assists students interested in community college, trade, and technical schools. They follow employability trends and track technical degrees trending in today’s job market. “One client wanted to complete a certification program.”

Post investigated if the school was producing employable graduates, the

We’re looking to up the competitive college advantage... meaning of the certification, the number of graduates and whether the school offered placement programs.

“I discovered the school produced graduates with an average salary of $20,000 per year and a tuition of $25,000. We investigated another school providing certification in a slightly different field, which resulted in twice the salary—much more in terms of employability and income,” Post notes.

May 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Financial Assistance Post and Bishop help families determine cost estimates so they can decide the amount of debt they are able to carry. “Some debt is acceptable,” says Post. “This is a very important investment, yet it has to be

Bishop suggests seniors begin essay work this summer, as soon as questions are released. realistic. If students get accepted into their dream school but it’s too costly, we look at alternatives.”

Bishop explains need and merit-based aid available to families. “Families making $120,000 per year would want to pursue opportunities for merit aid. One of my girls didn’t qualify for need-based aid for an Ivy League school, but at Boston College, she received a full tuition merit scholarship through an honors program. Students from more humble backgrounds can qualify for incredible need-based aid. Sticker prices are meaningless,” Bishop notes.

BECOME A LICENSED MEDICAL ASSISTANT Classes begin August 7, 2014 Tuesdays & Thursdays 5:30 pm -9:30 pm Saturdays 8:00 am - 4:30 pm 14092 Lakeshore Drive, Clearlake

Lake County Office of Education Career & College Readiness Department

Questions: Please contact 994-9001 or tserpa@lakecoe.org

Own Your Own Business

WORK AT HOME • CHOOSE YOUR OWN HOURS • WORK WITH CHILDREN • Free Training and other great incentives for attending fun workshops.

• Child Care Assistance for low income eligible families.

• Free Child Care Referrals.

1-800-606-5550 ext. 211

Now Accepting Clients

“We’re looking to up the competitive college advantage in the Mendocino County area. And, we’re good at it,” Post concludes.

For more information or to contact Post or Bishop, visit collegeboundservice.com or phone 391-2080 or 391-8624. ¶ Carole Brodsky is a Mendocino County-based freelance writer, mother, grandmother and squirrel lover.

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Rural Communities Child Care

MIDWIFERY Serving Lake and Mendocino Families Home Birth • Water Birth • Well Woman Care Childbirth classes beginning in March

707-262-1957

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION • www.lakemidwife.org May 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 17

2014

Summer Camp Adventure Guide

1

Start here in the 2014 Summer Camp Adventure Guide! Mendo Lake Family Life’s got the scoop on 58 camps to get your summer planning off to a great start

2

Get our award-winning app on page 14, then just hold your phone over any page with photos, graphics or ads that you find interesting to see instant video tours, slide shows and handy links. It’s easy, fun, and FREE!

Lake County Clearlake Lake County Youth Center. Archery programs. Lessons will be one day per wk. Competitions on selected weekends. Ages 8–17.

Starting around June 1. Affiliated with Middletown Archery & USA Jr. Olympics. 994-KIDS (5437). clearlakeyouthcenter.org. middletownarchery.org.

Redbud Library Summer Reading.

Free! “Paws to Read” theme for kids & teens. Storytelling and arts & crafts. June–Aug. 994-5115.

Hidden Valley Hidden Valley Equestrian Camp.

Daycamps are co-ed while overnights are girls only! M–F. Visit our website for rates/dates: hidval. com.

All About Horses Summer Camp.

Hidden Valley Lake Stables. Group 18 MendoLakeFamilyLife

3 Ways to Plan an Awesome Summer

3

Want more links and info?

Check out our Virtual Summer Camp Fair. Easy searches and ongoing updates means your best summer’s just a click away! Go to MendoLakeFamilyLife.com, or scan this QR code.

riding, games on horseback, grooming, riding drills, safety, photography, & pasture rides.

Helmets provided. Ages 7–15. M–F. 8:30 a.m.–noon. June 23–27 & July 14–18. 363-3554. pashatingle.com.

Equine Summer & Rodeo Camp.

Owen Ranch rides, riding lessons, birthday parties and field trips.

Ages 6–adult. 8 a.m.– 12:30 p.m.

M–F. June–Aug. $350/wk. $80/day.

355-0121.

Lakeport SkyCatch Gymnastics Summer Camps. Includes

gymnastics, arts, games, free play, snacks, & much more! We also offer a 20-foot-long tumbling trampoline you will only find here! M–F. June 16–20 & July 14–18. 100/session. $25/drop-in. Call Jerae at 490-6053.

Arrow Island Vacation Bible Club.

Free Bible stories, music, games, puppets, skits, crafts & snacks.

Ages 3–12. 9 a.m.–11:30 a.m. M–F. June 23–27. Clearlake Baptist Church. 263–3256.

Paddling & Water Safety. Kids

& paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, & rowing shells while learning to be safe in the water. Ages 13–18. Fri.– Sun. June 27–29 & July 11–13. 10 a.m.–noon. $25/weekend. 349-9779. clearlakesculllers.org.

Lakeport Library Summer Reading Program. Free!

Super Sign-up. Sat. May 31. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. “Paws For Reading” theme for kids. 263-8817 ext. 17102. Teen reading program will include some animal-related activities & events. 263-8817 ext.

17105. Program ends August 2nd.

Middletown Middletown Library Summer Reading Programs. Free! Super Sign-up. Sat.

May 31. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. “Paws For Reading” theme for kids. 987-3674.

May 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Summer Camp Adventure Guide Navarro Lake-Mendocino 4-H Summer Camp.

Archery, hiking, GeoCache, water activities, sports, fishing, arts, crafts, high ropes, low ropes & more. 4-H members grades 4–8. June 26–30. $175.

Space is limited. 263-6838. celake. ucanr.edu/Mendocino-Lake_4-H_ Summer_Camp.

Upper Lake Upper Lake Library Summer Reading Program. Super Sign-up.

Sat. May 31. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. “Paws For Reading” theme for kids.

275-2049.

Mendocino County

pine nut crafts, friction firemaking, hunting tool target practice, games & lots more! Ages 7–12. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Extended care avail. June 11–15. $270/wk. $65/day.

Caspar Fortunate Farm. Farm skills, crafts, &

outdoor activities. Beach fun, hiking & mapping. Jewelry making, archaeology & journaling. Ages 10–15. M–F. July 21–25. Aug. 4–8. $200/wk. 962-4149.

Covelo Round Valley Library Summer Reading. Free! “Paws to Read” theme for kids & teens. Check for dates & times. 983-6736.

Paleotechnics. Days

in the Life of a Hunter/Gatherer: soapstone &

SAVE A MINIMUM On Your Business Phone Bill

Offering a variety of activities for youth, teens, seniors, & families this summer. Please visit our website, starrcenter.net or call 964-9446 for more information.

Reading Programs. Free!

Ongoing activities & prizes. “Paws For Reading” theme for kids & teens.

Check for dates & times. 964-2020.

Mendocino Coast Recreation and Park District. Just

CV Starr Community Center.

Fort Bragg Library Summer

Fort Bragg

Boonville

OF 25%

Camp. Craft activities, games, outdoor play, cooking & swimming.

All school-aged children. 7:45 a.m.–5:15 p.m. M–F. June–Aug. Nature Day Trips 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

M–F. Two wk. sessions. July or Aug. Sports Camp. One-week session.

July & Aug. Reasonable Rates.

964-9672. mendocoastrec.org.

for Kids Day

Mendocino Ballet presents

“Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” and

“Dance Classics” May 24 at 2pm & 7pm Mendocino College Center Theatre Tickets: $10 in advance and $15 at the door.

Call 463-2290 for more information

Dance this Summer!

Classical Ballet * Jazz * Tap * Contemporary * Creative Dance Classes for all ages & levels from 3-Adult Summer Dance Camps for ages 5-12

That’s Right, A Minimum of 25% Please Call for More Information 462-8090 245 E Perkins St. Ukiah • 707-462-8098 Business Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Special Musical Revue Song and Dance Camp for ages 7-18 205 South State Street • Ukiah Trudy McCreanor, Director

Where Dreams to Dance Come True!

May 2014

Mendocino Ballet is a non-profit corporation dedicated to excellence in Dance.

MendoLakeFamilyLife 19

Summer Camp Adventure Guide Gualala Global Harmony Summer Adventure Camp. Six

different art classes such as culinary arts, beading, drumming, mask making, portrait painting & more. We try to offer some new each year! Grades 1–8. 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Tues–Fri. July 8–18. $195/two wk. session if paid before June 2. $295 before July 2. gualalaarts.org.

dance traditions from a diverse geographical region. All ages. July 12–July 193. $720/wk. 310-838-4442. middleeastcamp.com.

Lark Camp. A celebration of music & dance around the world.

Workshops, sharing, & fun. An adult & family camp. Special children’s rates. Aug 1–9. $648. larkcamp.com.

Mendocino College Athletic

Hopland

Department Summer Programs.

Camp Solar Living Institute. Our

Youth Soccer Camp. Games & drills designed to keep children focused & have fun while refining skills. Ages 5–14, Half day & full day. M–F. June– Aug. $50–$225. Soccer Academy.

Age appropriate activities to foster development of community youth soccer. Ages 4–8, June 17–Aug. 13, $90–$105. 391-8108.

summer camp will be putting the sun to work baking, making & racing. Over 3 days you will get a chance to make a sculpture from natural building materials, race solar cars, & run your own farmers market! Ages 7–11. 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Aftercare avail. June 24–26. & July 22–24. solarliving.org. 472-2468.

Point Arena

Laytonville

Arena Theater’s Summer Theater

Healthy Start Summer Program.

Camp. Campers

Arts & crafts, field games, water play, drama, music, lunch. At the end of the program, children put on a small presentation for the parents.

Ages 5–12. 12–3 p.m. Mons.,Tues. & Weds. June 23–July 16. $25/donation for 4 wks. 984-8089. laytonville.org/ healthystart.html.

will learn to work as a supportive ensemble thru a dynamic, fun & physical approach to stagecraft. Ages 9–14. M–Th. 10 a.m.–2.30 p.m. July 21–25. M–F. July 28–Aug 1. $250 for 2-week session.

882-3272. arenatheater.org.

Point Arena Summer Reading. Free!

p.m. June 30–July 3 & Aug. 11–14 $90/$110 sliding scale. 353-0143. acornpartnersineducation.org.

Potter Valley Paddington Station Horse Camp.

Prices are fully inclusive food & camping accommodation. If you bring your own horse, boarding will be added. Camps are seven nights, ending w/ a schooling show for families & friends to enjoy.

Sat–Sat. June–July 26th. For rates/ schedule. 743-2541. paddingtonstationriding.com.

White Dog Ranch Children’s Horseback Riding Day Camp. For riders of all levels. Learn all that is needed to own a horse, not just riding. There’s also riding lessons twice daily. All ages. June 17–21, July 1–5, July 22–26. Trail camp for those who qualify the first week in August. 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Tues.– Sat. $300/session, $125/half-day. whitedogranch.com.

Paddington Station Horse Camp.

Boarding & day camps for children & adults of all levels throughout the summer, including weekend camps. $310/ weekend, $1005/ week, $375/ five-day day camp. paddingtonstationriding.com.

Mendocino

Reading Program & Fun! “Paws to Read” is this year’s theme. 882-3114.

Community Center of Mendocino’s

Windy Hollow Farm Camp.

The City of Ukiah Summer Safari

Activities includes preparing homemade snacks, arts & crafts, sowing seeds & exploring the land & gardens. A chance for kids to run & get their hands dirty in a safe outdoor environment. Ages 5–9. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. June 23–26 & Aug. 4–7. $100/$125 sliding scale. Preschool Farm Camp. Ages 3–5. 10 a.m.–2

Day Camp. We utilize both indoor & outdoor activities including swimming, golf, arts & crafts, sports, cooking, bounce houses, & field trips. Located at Todd Grove Park. Ages 6–12. 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

M–F. Avail. after May 1. Call for rates 463-6231.

Summer Program. Offering

a variety of camps & activities. Ages 5 & up. 12– 5 p.m. M–F. June 23– Aug. 15. $175/wk. Visit our website for schedule ccmendo.org. or call 937-4133.

Mendocino Middle Eastern Music and & Dance Camp. Covering

a broad spectrum of music and 20 MendoLakeFamilyLife

Ukiah

May 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Summer Camp Adventure Guide Mendocino Ballet Summer Dance Workshops. We

offer two dance camps for ages 5–12. In addition to pre-ballet for ages 3–5. Ballet & tap classes for ages 6–14 & teen/adult classes. A ballet intensive for ages 8– adult in Aug. to prepare student for placement in “The Art of Classical Ballet.” We also offer a special musical revue dance workshop including tap dance, a production number, & some singing is offered for ages 7–16. Schedule/rates call 463-2290.

Youth Summer Program at City of Ten Thousand Buddhas. Global Citizenship: Listen, Reflect, and Move the World. Activities include: meditation, performing arts, Chinese class, sports & games, arts & crafts & more. Ages 4–16, 8 a.m.–3 p.m. June 22–July 4, Day Camp/$200. Residential Camp (ages 11 & up)/$500. 468–3896. igdvs.org.

Bible Baptist Church. Jungle

Safari Summer Vacation Bible School.

Bible stories, songs, games, activities, & great fun! Transportation available. Ages 4–17. 6–8 p.m. July 7–11. 468-0134.

Boys & Girls Club of Ukiah Summer Program. Indoor

& outdoor fun— play pool, ping pong, basketball, fooseball, watch movies, dance, create art, & more! Wonderful new gym. Breakfast, lunch & snacks provided. Ages 5–18. 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. M–F. June 9–Aug. 21. $30/ registration fee. $15/day. 467-4900. ukiahbgc.org.

designed to keep children focused & have fun while refining skills. Ages 3–5. 5:45 p.m. Weds. Games Suns. 3 p.m. June 2–Aug. 3. $80. Ages 6–11.

Mons. & Thurs. 5:45 p.m. Games Suns. 4 p.m. 8-wk. session/$120.

25% siblings discount off youngest

child’s registration fee. mcsasoccer. com or 468-3006.

Sports & Splash Camp–Redwood Health Club. From

Under the Sea to Fun & Fitness. Our weekly themes will inspire the crafts as well as the games & activities we play. Ages

2014

Passes good June 1 thru Aug. 31, 2014

SUMMER YOUTH PASS $40 all summer County-wide Unlimited rides to summer school...

Shopping...to the Coast...Meet your Friends!

Youth Summer Pass for students 18 years & younger.

Pass good all summer long on all MTA fixed routes. $5.00 and a Youth Summer Pass will get you to and from Santa Rosa on MTA’s North Coast and South Coast Buses!

For more information: www.mendocinotransit.org or call 800-696-4MTA / 462-1422 Tickets: Mendocino Transit Authority, 241 Plant Road , Ukiah CA 95482 Available on board an MTA bus or in selected outlets in Mendocino County. This pass not valid on MTA Dial-A-Ride.

Mendocino College Athletic Department Summer Programs.

Youth Soccer Camp. Games & drills

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

wheel deal!

May 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 21

Summer Camp Adventure Guide 5–12. PT, FT, & extended care.

7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. June–Aug. For schedule/rates: 468-0441. rhcu.net.

Yes Camp. Hands-on emergency

services training w/fire fighters, law enforcement, paramedics. Ages 14–18.

Aug 10–16. Applications due before June 30. 897-5092. yescamp.org.

Mendocino Starz Gymnastics.

Summer session June 16–July 21.

Times/rates: 463-3303. starzgymca.com.

SPACE, School of Performing Arts, & Cultural Education Summer Programs. Camp

will be centered on the fully-staged production of a musical theater play. Daily classes in acting, singing, & dance. Limited to 45 campers. Grades 3–8. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. 4-wk session. July 7–Aug 2.

Regular camp $640. Advanced $710. 462-9370. Street Dance Fusion Summer Dance. 1 wk. of non-stop dancing w/final celebration performance! Ages 13–young adult.

June 16–21. Beg/Intermediate/$315.

9 a.m.–4 p.m. Advanced. $365. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. & 6–8 p.m. Creative Arts Summer Camp. Ages 4–7.

M–F. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. June 23–July 11. $399/$50 reservation fee. 462-9370. spaceperformingarts.org.

toss. Ages 8–18. June–mid-July.

456-0152. willits.org.

Cazadero

Willits Kids Club. Arts

blend of musical instruction & outdoor recreation. Ages 5–12.

June 16–Aug. 2. Schedule/rate: 510-527-7500. cazadero.org.

& crafts, sports, games, swimming, cooking, gardening, reading & science. Ages 4–13. 7:30 a.m.–5 p.m. M–F. 120/wk. $60/3 full days. $220/2 wks. $650/6 wks. 9 a.m.–noon. $25/wk. June 23– Aug. 841-8012. willitskidsclub.org.

Residential Camps Lake County Cobb Camp Indian Meadows. We

have 12 open-air bungalows, tents & RV spaces. Cafeteria & dining/meeting hall, pool, pond for fishing & trails for hiking. We can accommodate small or large groups & families who just want to camp. May–Oct. $40/night per person. $40/day (meals) per person. 942-2267.

Mendocino County Ukiah City of Ten Thousand Buddha’s Summer Youth Camp. Timeless

Cazadero Music Camp. Unique

Legget Redwood Adventure Camp.

Provides leadership development, spiritual growth, environmental stewardship, & lifelong connections, thru a traditional camping program.

Ages 10–16. July 13–20. $435/wk.

703-9171. redwoodadventure.org.

Mendocino Camp Mendocino (a program of Boys & Girls Club of SF). Campers

can participate in dance and drama, arts & crafts, swimming, boating, mountain biking, archery, digital photography, environmental education, gardening, rock climbing, ropes course, & much more! Ages 7–17. July 8–Aug. 14. Schedule/rates.

(415)445-5477 or campmendocino.org.

Navarro Boy Scouts of America Summer

Free! “Paws to Read” theme for kids & teens. Storytelling, crafts & performers! June 9–Aug. 16. Tues. & Sats. 463-4153. mendolibrary.org.

Teachings. Explore Buddha’s teachings through art, music, theater, community projects, sports, speaking Chinese, brush painting, organic gardening, meditation, & nature hikes. June 22– July 4. Day Camp: $200: Residential Camp: $400–$500.

Willits

Laytonville

Willits Shakespeare Company

Scout Resident Camp at Camp Noyo. M–W. July 7–July 13. Boy Scout Resident Camp at Camp Noyo. July 7–July 12. $275/ camper. Webelos Weekend Camp at Camp Noyo. July 26–27. Aug. 2–3. $80/camper. Wilderness Family Camp at Camp Noyo. Ages 6–20 & Parents. July 29–31. $125/camper. redwoodbsa.org/Camping.shtml.

Camp Winnarainbow Circus &

Girls Scouts of Northern California

Ukiah Library Summer Reading.

Summer Youth Camp. Our

16th year, we explore Shakespeare’s work throughout the years. This coincides w/annual fundraiser, bbq & tomato

22 MendoLakeFamilyLife

Performing Arts Camp. For

39 years children have run away to join this circus in beautiful Mendocino!

984-6507. campwinnarainbow.org.

Camps. Cub

Kamp Konocti. Join old & new friends as we spend a fun-filled week exploring nature, archery, arts & crafts, hiking & outdoor cooking.

Grades 1–8. July 20–26. $300–$325/

May 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Summer Camp Adventure Guide wk. Visit our website for specific programs. kampkonocti.org.

Monterey County Monterey Summer at Santa Catalina. A place filled w/fun, joy, & learning. From arts & athletics to yoga & marine biology. Girls Ages 8–14. June 22– July 26. $1300–$5300. (831) 655-9386. santacatalina.org.

Lassen County Susanville

Occidental

Sonoma

CYO Summer Camp. Swimming,

Camp St Dorothy’s. HemOc

canoeing, arts & crafts, theater, dance, sports, team-building, & nature hikes. June 22– Aug. 8. $215–$695 per week. For schedule, call 874-0240. camp.cccyo.org.

(Hematology and Oncology). Children with cancer & their siblings. Safe, nurturing environment. All ages.

July 7–12. No Charge. 874-3319. stdorothysrest.org.

Access. Quality. Care.

Mountain Meadow Ranch. Family

owned located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. What’s cool is you can choose what activities you would like to participate in 2–4x daily. The offerings will vary from day to day.

Our summer camp is co-ed. Ages 7–16. June–Aug. Schedule/rates, call 530-257-4419. mountainmeadow.com.

Sonoma County Cazadero REBA Camp Cazadero. At camp this year, we’ll celebrate the abundant grace of God that He makes available to every nation, tribe & tongue. Grades 1–3. S-Th. July 20–24. Grades 4–6. S–Th. July 27–31. $250/wk. 447-5536. campcazadero.org.

Plantation Farm Camp. Our goal is to get campers outside. Your child will be a hands-on, active participant in our farm community, with the freedom to choose their own activities every day. 847-3494. plantationcamp.com.

Announcing

Urgent Care Clinic is Now Open SATURDAYS

F O R L I F E’S L IT TL E

E M E RG E NCI ES Same Day Appointments AvAILAbLE You have a choice about where to go for care.

Choose our Health Center. We’re here for you.

707-456-9600 45 HAzEL ST., wILLITS mchcinc.org - FEDERALLY QUALIFIED HEALTH CENTERS

mediCAl • dentAl • behAviorAl heAlth • CAre for her www.mendolakefamilylife.com

May 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 23

May

Calendar of Events Calling All You Do It Yourselfers!

T

he Mendocino Maker Faire is Coming. Have you installed a solar panel or sewn a quilt or made goat cheese or fabricated a sculpture from a 3D printer or engineered a mountain bike or decorated an art car? Or maybe you just work for a local business that makes cool stuff. You are invited to share what you make at the Mendocino Maker Faire. Sign up is free by May 9th to showcase what you do on Saturday, May 24th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Mendocino County Museum. There will be booths, demonstrations, workshops, and performances to inspire and teach our community to make something new. Sign up to share what you know or find out more at MendocinoMakerFaire.com. ¶

1 Thursday Artists Look Back: Mendo Art

14785 Burns Valley Rd., Clearlake.

994-5115.

Association (MCAA). Turns 60! On

FREE Legos. Fun after school

display in the main gallery juried retrospective displays of past & current work by MCAA. Runs until May 25. Weds.–Sats. 10 am–4:30 pm.

Suns. noon–4:30 p.m. $4/per person, $10/family, $3/seniors & students. Free to members. Grace Hudson Museum.

467-2836. gracehudsonmuseum.org.

activity! Tues. & Thurs. 3 pm. Ukiah Library. co.mendocino.ca.us.

Whale & Jazz Festival. Presented by

Gualala Arts. Original jazz artwork, whale education, a film series, poetry & jazz, chowder challenge & tasting, & live music in beautiful settings. Thru May 11. Daily 7–9 pm. Suns. 1–9 pm. gualalaarts.org.

FREE Teen Drop In. Homework, then other activities such as cooking, gardening, arts & crafts, & snacks included. Grades 6–12. Rolo will pick up the youth at the Middle School & High School. 3–5 pm. 44400 Willis Ave., Laytonville. 984-808 or nikki@ mcn.org.

FREE Story Time for Toddlers.

Thurs. 11–12 pm. Redbud Library.

24 MendoLakeFamilyLife

FREE Young Moms Lakeport.

Moms meet weekly for a variety of workshops such as Mother Day Crafts, Motherhood Stress, DeCluttering & Summer Safety. Children’s activities available for ages 1 to 5. Thurs. 6–8 pm.

1950 Parallel Dr., Lakeport. 349-2248.

2 Friday FREE Grace Hudson Museum. Free

to all on the first Friday of each month.

10 am–4:30 pm.

Kids (5 to 11) at 6 pm. and teens and adults at 7 pm on Thurs. at Body Works Gym and kids (5 to 11) at 5:30 and teens and adults at 6:30 on Mon. at Ukiah High, room L4. Body Works Gym 1511 S. Main St., Willits and Ukiah High 1000 Low Gap Rd., Ukiah. 354-0565.

9th Annual Human Race. 5K walk

& timed run around Ukiah. Locals raise money for local non-profit organizations. After the race celebrate with fun, games, food, & prizes.

Registration 8 am. Alex Thomas Plaza.

S School Street and W Clay St., Ukiah.

260-2582 or mendohumanrace.com.

The Ukiah Bicycle Kitchen.

fun while parents get the chance to enjoy our beautiful facility. Ages 18 mos–5 yrs. $5/drop in. $30/month. Mons. Weds. Fris.

9–11 am. C.V. Starr Community Center. 300 S. Lincoln St., Fort Bragg. starrcenter.net/calendar.

Volunteers set up the kitchen every week w/ mechanical knowledge, repair stands, & tools to show how to maintain & repair bicycles. Bring your bike & your questions. No one turned away for lack of funds. 10 am–noon.

Alex Thomas Plaza. S School Street and W Clay St., Ukiah.

3 Saturday

Cinco de Mayo Dinner. The Knights

Kids Corner. Have

FREE The Mendo County Sheriff’s Activities League (SAL). Open

of Columbus will sponsor a dinner & margaritas to celebrate! $12/adults. $6/

enrollment classes. Space limited!

May 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

under 12. 4:30–7:30 pm. Trinity Hall.

Point Arena. 882-2903 or 882-2731.

FREE Friends of Boggs Mt Hike. 3

mile casual-paced hike on interpretive trail. Bring water, a snack & wear sturdy shoes. 9–11 am. Boggs Parking lot. dheco@me.com or 928-559.

Grand Opening. Gibson Museum & Cultural Center. Ribbon Cutting 10 am. “Revisit the ‘30s” dress-up. Sat. & Sun. 10 am–6 pm. 21267 Calistoga St., Middletown. cgibsonmuseum.com.

Hike for Healing. Climb beautiful

Mt. Konocti. Your support helps save women & children globally.

Fee $25. Children 12 & under free.

Registration 8 am. Start at 9 am. 6+ mile round-trip hike from the Upper Parking Lot near the access gate on Konocti Rd. in Kelseyville. 279-8733. worldwidehealinghands.org.

2nd Annual Walk of Paws. Proceeds will be donated to the SPCA, Animal Coalition & the Free & Reduced Spay & Neuter Clinics. 8:30 am–1:30 pm.

Meet at Austin Park at the Gazebo.

Walk to Redbud Park & back in Clearlake.

FREE Annual Treasure & Trash Sale. Event will occur rain or shine.

Donations are being accepted for the sale 11 am.–4 pm. Wed. thru Sat. prior to the sale at the museum. No large appliances or clothing. Sale occurs 9 am–3 pm. Sat. Lower Lake Historic Schoolhouse Museum. 16435 Main St., Lower Lake. For info or to arrange for pick up of items, call 995-3565.

FREE Castles and Kites. This annual

festival features spectacular kites, demonstrations, and sand sculpture creations. Tools and molds available to create your own. 11 am–4 pm. Doran Regional Park. 201 Doran Rd., Bodega Bay. 875-3540.

Spring Dance Festival. More than

a 150 dancers will perform classical ballet, toe, jazz, clogging & hip-hop dance routines. Premium seating/ $20, general admission/$15. 12 & under/ $10.

Sat. 1 pm & 7 pm Sun. 2 pm. Soper Reese Community Theater. 275 S. Main St., Lakeport. soperreesetheatre. com or 263-0577.

4 Sunday FREE Ukiah Family Story Time. Suns. 1 pm. Ukiah Library.

co.mendocino.ca.us.

32nd Annual Boontling Classic 5K Footrace. A fundraiser for A.V. Athletic Sports program. There is a great raffle at the awards ceremony w/ prizes from local businesses. 10 am.

Anderson Valley Elementary School.

12300 Anderson Valley Way, Boonville.

Entry forms available 895-2701 or flick@mcn.org.

Big Valley Grange Plant Sale.

Breakfast 8 am.–noon and sale 8 am.–3 pm. 1510 Big Valley Road, Finley.

263-6724. payle77@gmail.com.

FREE 3rd Annual Spring Garden Event. Demonstrations, plant sales, gently-used gardening items sale, help desk & plant clinic. Bring your questions & plant samples in sealed plastic bags. Rain or shine. 10 am–1 pm. 883 Lakeport Blvd., Lakeport.

263-6838. celake.ucanr.edu.

20th Annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta.

Mexican food put on by nonprofit

FREE 5th Annual Wildfire Safety Expo. Information on how you can protect your family & home during a wildfire. Kids’ activities, firefighter demonstrations & safety information booths. 10 am–2 pm. Jones Center. 923 Parallel Dr., Lakeport. 263-4180 ext.

106.

Located in Beautiful, Little Lake Valley of Willits • Small Class Sizes • Personal Attention to each student

Raising Garden Awareness & Violence Prevention. Fundraiser

sponsored by the Small Farmers Assoc. Workshops, food & entertainment. 4–10 pm. The Chief’s Smokehouse. 44400 N. Hwy 101, Laytonville. 489-0996. www.mendolakefamilylife.com

A Christ-Centered Education Adventist Christian School of Willits

• A Safe Place to Grow

A Journey to Excellence Participant School 707-459-4333 • www.willitssdaschool.com

Christian Education to the children of this area for 50 years.

May 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 25

organizations & vendors. Fun activities for children, face painting, ceramics, jump house and much more!

Folklore dancing, Zumba dancing & a live band w/ DJ 2000. We will close w/the SSU Aztec Dancers performing their cultural dances. 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

Bruno’s Shop Smart Parking Lot. 355 Lakeport Blvd., Lakeport. Shushan at 279-4152.

6 Tuesday FREE Story Time with Marilyn and Linda. Books, puppets, flannel boards

& music for preschoolers accompanied by an adult. Tues. 11–11:30 am. 225 Main St., Point Arena. coastcommunitylibrary.org.

FREE Triple P Parenting Classes.

Tues. 10 am.–noon. Safe Passage Family Resource Center. 208 Dana St., Fort Bragg. 964-3077.

FREE Story Time. Presented by Miss

Shirley and the Families for Literacy program. Tues. 11:30 am–12:30 pm. Middletown Library. 21256 Washington St. 987-3674.

Kelseyville’s Junior Giants Baseball

J

oin Kelseyville’s Junior Giants Baseball League! Junior Giants is the flagship program of the San Francisco Giants Community Fund. It is a free, noncompetitive, innovative baseball program for boys and girls ages five to eighteen located throughout Northern California. The program welcomes children of all backgrounds and encourages them to live healthy and productive lives by getting outside and playing baseball. Volunteer coaches will have the opportunity to attend a professional training session provided by the Giants in San Francisco.

You can volunteer to coach for or sign up for your child to play Kelseyville’s Junior Giants Baseball at the Kelseyville Presbyterian Church from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 31st and at Safeway in Lakeport on June 7th between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Call Dan Camacho at 349-2484 or check out lakesheriff.com/ ServicesPrograms/SAL.htm for more information. Or check out sanfrancisco.giants.mlb.com/sf/community/gcf/junior_giants.jsp to find another Junior Giants team near you. ¶

7 Wednesday FREE A Child, A Dog, and a Good Book. A

therapy dog reading program in the Children’s Section.

Weds. 3:30 pm. Ukiah Library. co.mendocino.ca.us.

FREE Let’s Play Math. Math games,

riddles, toys from easy to challenging.

Weds. 3–4 pm. Ukiah Library. co.mendocino.ca.us.

FREE Mendocino County Museum.

Check out current exhibits with free admission first Wednesday monthly.

10 a.m.–4 p.m. 459-2736.

FREE Playgroup. For children birth–5 yrs. & their parents. The playgroup will be held in Harwood Memorial Park in good weather; otherwise in Harwood Hall. Weds.

11 am–1 pm. 44400 Willis Avenue.

Laytonville. 984-8089. laytonville.org/ healthystart.

FREE Kids Club. The church will offer games & activities for Northshore youth, including a wkly. Bible lesson. Weds. 3:30–5 pm. Lucerne Community Church. 5870 Hwy. 20.

8 Thursday FREE UUSD Open Forum Meeting.

Superintendent’s Parents Education The public is invited to attend an educational night. Superintendent Deb Kubin will be on hand to hear public input about Ukiah Unified School District Schools. 6–7:30 pm. 511 S. Orchard Ave. uusd.net.

9 Friday FREE Story Time for Preschoolers.

Fris. 10:15–11:30 am. Lakeport Library.

1425 N. High St., Lakeport. 263-8817.

26 MendoLakeFamilyLife

May 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

FREE National Public Garden Day. This day of national

recognition honors public gardens & their contributions in education, conservation, and ecology. 9 am–5 pm.

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens.

Fort Bragg. gardenbythesea.org.

Clearlake High School Sober Grad Variety Show. Join us for a

fun & entertaining evening that you won’t want to miss!! All proceeds benefit the CLHS Sober Grad 2014.

Entertainment, snacks, desserts and fun! $10/adults. $7/students. 6–9 pm.

Soper Reese Community Theater.

349-0815.

10 Saturday Yoga Day at the Community Center of Mendocino. Fundraising benefit

Living History Day. Recreation of 1840s Mexican California w/ volunteers in authentic clothing w/ demonstrations & historical skits. $3/adults. $2/ages 6–16. Free/5 & under. 10 am–4 pm. Petaluma Adobe.

3325 Adobe Rd., Petaluma. For info., contact Petaluma.adobe@parks.ca.gov.

FREE Yoga & Wellness Fair. It’s a Party! Live Music, Free Classes, Food, Fashion Show, Prizes and Community Wellness info. & Local Vendors. 1-5 pm Radiant Yoga Ukiah, 545 N. State St., Ukiah 707-468-9642. radiantyogaukiah.com FREE Spring Bazaar. Don’t miss this great selection of fine arts, crafts, treasures, collectibles & homemade goodies. 9 am–5 pm. Lakeport Yacht Club. 15 5th St., Lakeport. 263-4226.

for Community Care (multipurpose senior services program). Five amazing classes with five powerful instructors. $5 to $29 donation per class. 9 am–5:30 pm. Community Center of Mendocino. 998 School St. For more information, call Helen Jacobs 937-5522.

Friends of Boggs Mountain invite you & your leashed dogs to a hike.

Professional dog trainer will be on hand. Dogless? You are also welcome!

Space limited. RSVP early. 10 am–12 pm. Cobb. 321-4964.

FREE 27th Annual Mendocino

FREE Hidden Valley Lake Garden

Mustang Mother’s Day Care Show.

Family Fun! People’s Choice Awards. Kids Coloring Contest.

Music, games, raffles. Parking begins at 8:30 am. All Mustangs & Cobras Welcome. 9 am–3 pm. Peach Tree Center. 504 E. Perkins St., Ukiah.

Mendocino Art Center’s Coast Garden Tour. Enjoy some of

Mendocino coast’s most beautiful gardens. Tour tickets $40. Lunch $20.

10 am–5 pm. mendocinoartcenter.org. or 937.581 ext. 10 for tickets.

FREE 2nd Annual Dogs at Boggs.

Club Plant Sale. Potted & specialty

plants, along w/ arrangements of fresh flowers for Mother’s Day. An area will be set up for free children’s activities.

Hotdogs, baked goods & drinks will be available for purchase. 8 am–2 pm. Blanche Horner Park. Hartmann Road, across from Greenview Restaurant in Hidden Valley Lake.

987-2696. bmcgraw989@att.net.

Mother’s Day High Tea. Enjoy

traditional tea lunch items. Sat. & Sun. at noon and 3 pm. Lakeport English Inn. 263-4317.

11 Sunday Happy Mother’s Day. Enjoy this day!

Don’t forget your mom.

FREE 37th Annual John Druecker Memorial Rhododendron Show & Plant Sale. There will be hundreds of gorgeous flowers on display, celebrity judging, people’s choice awards, raffles. 9 am–5 pm. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. Fort Bragg. gardenbythesea.org.

Mother’s Day Brunch. Treat mom to

an enjoyable roundtrip on the Skunk Train w/delicious brunch. Adults/$74.

Child/$44. Dog/$10. Infant/Free. 9:45 am. Departing from Fort Bragg to Northspur. skunktrain.com.

12th Annual Spring Has Sprung 5K Walk & Run and Kids K! Fundraiser for Middletown & Upper Lake High School Cross Country. Visit our website for schedule/registration. Start time 8:30 am. 18950 Coyote Valley Rd., Hidden Valley Lake. runsignup. com/Race/CA/HiddenValleyLake/ SpringHasSprungRun2.

Mother’s Day Pops Concert. The Lake County Symphony Orchestra’s Classical Music from the Movies.

Premium seating/$30, general admission/$25. 3–5 pm. Soper Reese Community Theater. 275 S. Main St., Lakeport. soperreesetheatre.com or 263-0577.

Rural Jazz Project quartet at Blue Wing Mother’s Day Brunch. 10:30

am–3 pm. Blue Wing Restaurant.

Upper Lake. 9550 Main St., Upper Lake. tallmanhotel.com.

13 Tuesday FREE Mendocino College Foundation Tour. Followed by a light

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

May 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 27

lunch. Limited to 20 participants.

Reserve your spot. noon–1:30 pm.

1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah.

To reserve, call 467-1018 or email Foundation@mendocino.edu.

16 Friday Catfish Derby. A benefit for

community projects. Adult Derby w/ cash & prizes. The Kids Derby is ages 15 & under. The winner receives a special prize. Fri. Sat. 8 am–5 pm.

Sun. 8 am–noon. Clearlake Oaks Fire Station. 12655 E. Hwy. 20, Clearlake Oaks. 998-1006 or clearlakeoaks.org.

11th Annual Festival of New Plays.

Student-directed world premiere productions of short scripts by local playwrights! Fri. and Sat. 8 pm.

Mendocino College Little Theatre.

1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah.

468.3172. redelman@mendocino.edu.

17 Saturday 13th Annual Pastels on the Plaza Festival. A day of art & creativity in downtown Ukiah. 10 am–3 pm. Alex Thomas Plaza. S School Street and W Clay St. 485-8719 or waldorfmendocino.com.

Grace Hudson Museum. Children’s

Art Workshop: “The Next Generation.”

Limited space available. $4/person. $10/family. $3/student/senior. Free to members. 1–3:30 pm. Grace Hudson Museum. 431 S. Main St., Ukiah.

Preregister at 467-2836.

The Tea & Togs. The fashion show

features finds from our own Harrah Senior Thrift Shop. Enjoy tea, sandwiches, & desserts. Bring your own tea cup! $12/person. noon–2 pm.

William Harrah Senior Center. 1501 Baechtel Rd., Willits. 459-6826.

28 MendoLakeFamilyLife

FREE 34th Annual Lake County

FREE Lake County Chamber of

Passion Play. Bring your own chair.

No smoking, food, drink, or pets allowed. Bottled water is avail. Sat. & Sun. 4–6 pm. 7010 Westlake Rd., Upper Lake. The Passion Play grounds are visible from Hwy. 29. 279-0349 or lakecountypassionplay.org.

Commerce Memorial Day Parade. A

18 Sunday FREE Farm Tours. Presented by

Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA). Eat seasonal healthy food.

Save time doing groceries. No 2 farms alike! Some CSAs accept CalFresh/ SNAP or flex. pymts. Just Ask! Visit our website as dates & times vary by location. mendocinolocalfood.org.

23 Friday

parade to honor fallen U.S. soldiers. 11 am–12:30 pm. Main Street, Lakeport.

263-5092.

FREE Fine Arts Fair. An intimate 2-day festival. Exhibits, shows, music & a variety of delicious food. A fun-filled family day. Sat. & Sun. 10 am–5 pm. Gualala Arts Center. 46501 Gualala Rd. gualalaarts.org.

FREE Wine, Art & Whales. Come to this

fundraiser & learn more about the killer whale. Exhibits, food, music, family fun. Sponsored by the Whale Research Center & coastal artists. Sat. & Sun. 11 am.–5 pm. Handley Cellars. 3151 Hwy 128, Philo. artsmendocino.org.

FREE Snow White and the Seven

FREE Seabiscuit’s 81st Birthday.

Dwarfs. Presented by the Mendocino

Come help us celebrate the barn’s listing in the Nat’l Register of Historic Places. A plaque will be unveiled during a formal dedication ceremony. noon. Ridgewood Ranch Stud Barn.

16200 N. Hwy. 101, Willits. 459-5992. seabiscuitheritage.org.

Ballet Dance Theater. One day only! Don’t Miss it! Wonderful entertainment for the whole family!

2 pm and 7 pm. Mendocino College.

1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah.

463-2290. mendocinoballet.org.

Spaghetti Dinner. All you can eat!

Faire. A family-friendly showcase

This benefits the South Coast Seniors.

Wine/Bear avail. $9/adults. $3/under 12. 5–7 pm. Gualala Community Center. 47950 Center St. 882-2137.

of invention & creativity. Booths, displays, demonstrations, workshops all designed to share what people are making, inventing & creating.

10 am–5 pm. Mendocino County Museum. 400 E. Commercial St., Willits. mendocinomakerfaire.com.

459-2736.

24 Saturday Lake Renaissance Festival Memorial Day Weekend. Be swept

away to 16th-century Italy. Food, drinks, merchants, and entertainment galore. $7. Children under 10, free.

10 am–6 pm. Tuscan Village/ Terrill Cellars Winery. 16175 Main St., Lower Lake. 295-2925.

FREE 2nd Annual Mini Maker

FREE Kiwanis Craft Fair & Pancake Breakfast. Proceeds from the

event are used for local high school scholarships. Sat. & Sun. 9 am–4 pm. Natural Continuation High School. Main St., Lakeport. 263-8326. kiwanislakeport.org.

May 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Marketplace Schools FREE Memorial Day Parade & Celebration.

Annual community celebration featuring BBQ, live music, arts & crafts show. 11 am–12:30 pm. Main St., Lakeport.

263-5092.

25 Sunday FREE 33rd Annual

Schools

La Vida Charter School • Independent Study • K –12 • Free Public Charter • Academic & Specialty Classes • Gifted & Talented Served • Inspired by Waldorf Education 16201 N. Hwy. 101, Willits

707-459-6344

BABYBABY

Providing for your youngster since 1986

Tuition-free Montessori elementary for ages 5-13  Hands-on, arts and music integrated with academics

 National Green Campus  Promotes responsibility, respect, and peace

Located on north end of Fairgrounds PO Box 966 Ukiah 95482

www.lavidaschool.org

Community Festival & Car Show. Live

entertainment. 10 am–4 pm. Grove Park.

E. Commercial St. & S. Lenore St., Willits. willits.org.

26 Monday FREE The Avenue of Flags. Casket Flags line

30 Friday Redwood Empire Spring Fair. May 30 thru June

1. Fri. 3–12 am Sat. & Sun. 11 am.–noon. Redwood Fairgrounds. Ukiah. redwoodempirefair.com.

FREE 6th Annual Ukiah Valley Art Faire. The

the drive thru the cemetery in honor of fallen men & women. The flags will be on display 8 am–5 pm on Memorial Day. See patriotic spirit in all its glory at the Upper Lake Cemetery. 275-9515 or 275-2000.

faire this year will be held inside to assure perfect weather for enjoying the arts & crafts. This fair is a featured part of the Spring fair. Fri. 3–7 pm. Sat & Sun. 12–7 pm. Carl Purdy Hall.

Redwood Fairgrounds. artsmendocino.org.

29 Thursday

31 Saturday

Carnival By the Sea!

Advance tickets $20/all day unlimited rides. Available at: La Bamba, Ft. Bragg Credit Union, Columbi’s Market, Safeway, Harvest Market. Runs thru June 1st. Hwys 1 & 20. Next to College of the Redwoods.

964-2463.

Taylor Observatory Nortan Planetarium

Retail

Hours: 12:30-5:30, Sun-Thurs, Closed Fri & Sat 14380 Olympic Dr (near Post office) Clearlake 994-1825

Tutoring

treeoflifeschool@pacific.net www.treeoflifeschool.net

Your Child can Thrive!

Online learning ignites the minds of children like yours

Services

Enroll now K12.com/AAS or 877-506-8631

WHAT IS LAKE COUNTY’S

BEST KEPT Yuba College STORAGE SECRET? A Smart Choice

Jim’s

MINI STORAGE!

Units Starting at $ 45 A Month Apply and Enroll Today!

707-995-7900 • clc.yccd.edu

15880 Dam Road Extension • Clearlake

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

BEST SELECTION OF BABY CLOTHES AND FURNITURE IN THE COUNTY

707-462-0913

Public Presentation.

The last Saturday of every month experience a science presentation, a full dome planetarium experience, and telescope viewing. $5 for adults, $3 for children under 12. 8–11 pm. 5725 Oak Hills Lane, Kelseyville.

262-4121.

COME CHECK US OUT!

May 2014

OUTDOOR BOAT, RV & VEHICLE STORAGE TOO!

707-994-JIMS

2330 Industrial Ct., Clearlake

(Just North of town, Off Hwy. 53 & Ogulin Canyon Rd. at La Rosa Plaza)

MendoLakeFamilyLife 29

Humor Break

All I Really Want on Mother’s Day I

By Veronica Blaustein

’ll never forget my first Mother’s Day when, after I expressed disappointment that he didn’t get me anything, my husband said, “Well, you’re not my mother.” Since then there have been three more kids, bouquets of flowers, cards, massages, a facial, breakfasts in bed, and numerous other sweet things given to me by him and the kids.

I would never tell him that I don’t appreciate all those nice things, because I do. Besides we all know that Mother’s Day isn’t about getting gifts, it’s about appreciating one’s mother and appreciating the gift that motherhood is, right? But if I’m asked what I want for Mother’s Day this year, I’m thinking about responding as follows: What I really want is a minivan with a limousine glass that closes when the kids are screaming or start bossing me around. My side would play my kind of music with inappropriate– for-children lyrics, and in the back they could listen to whatever latest Disney soundtrack was hot. This gift would really give me the opportunity to “Let It Go.” While we are on the topic, I also want a minivan that comes with a built-in Roomba. I would have a clean car always. No more embarrassing 30 MendoLakeFamilyLife

moments at the carwash when I sit there listening to the crackle-clank-clank sounds of the vacuums.

I’d like to get a few packs of markers that are really and truly washable (Whatever Crayola!). It would also be nice if someone donated sandbox mud to my children’s school that really comes out of my children’s

I could fast forward through the hard parts and slow motion the moments I want to last longer. clothes, not that nuclear mud that they currently play in that I can’t scrub out with my Oxyclean-Zout-Shout combo to save my life.

I’d love not just five minutes of alone time, but also an invisibility cloak so that the kids really couldn’t find me. I could use the bathroom in peace, talk to a friend on the phone without having to sit with my back up against my closet door, shower without having to keep one hand on the shower door to prevent the baby from coming in, or answer that client call

without my two-year-old yelling at me, “I’m pooping!”

I’d ask for eight hours of uninterrupted sleep. No one would come in and wake me or stare me awake. Breakfast in bed would still be okay.

I’d ask for more laughing and less crying and the kids would just generally get along.

They would ask for more vegetables and, after clearing their plates, I’d have to beg them to try their dessert. “No thanks, they would say, I’d like to be healthy” (this actually happened once… it was like winning the lottery).

I would be given a remote control so I could rewind and do-over those moments where I lose my cool with the kids, raise my voice, and drag them out the door blaming them for our lateness.

I could fast forward through the hard parts and slow motion the moments I want to last longer.

“What do you want a medal?”…Come to think of it, yeah I would actually like a medal and I’d like other moms to get one too.

Mostly, I would like to have the self-awareness on Mother’s Day that I’m doing pretty darn good because I don’t have a lot of inventions that make mothering easier and so far, 95% of the time, I really don’t need them.

Wanna know what my husband wants for Father’s Day? “A car wash you can run the kids through.”

Great minds think alike, right? ¶

May 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

May 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 31

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