Sonoma Family Life December 2014

sonoma December 2014

Selfie with Our Elfie Cover Contest Winner!

Our New Website 7 great features

Heirloom Dolls

Made by a local mom

Join the

‘Selfie with Our Elfie’

Sweepstakes

Hit the Ice 4 local rinks

It’s a love story you’ll tell a thousand times.

At Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, our specialists in the care of moms and their children treat you like family. Our dedicated Women and Children’s unit features:

Bob G. Field, MD Gynecology

• private rooms for birthing and after delivery • a Level II NICU, supported 24/7 by UCSF neonatologists • a secure pediatric unit, staffed 24/7 by pediatric hospitalists The team is pleased to welcome its newest members, Annadel Medical Group physicians Jennifer Johnson, MD, and Garima Loharuka, DO. They’ve joined a practice led by Bob G. Field, MD, a distinguished gynecologist and patient advocate who has served Sonoma County for over 30 years.

Choose the healthiest start for your child. To find out more about our obstetrician/gynecologists or pediatric specialists, call (877) 449-DOCS.

StJoeSonoma.org A Ministry founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange

Jennifer Johnson, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology

Garima Loharuka, DO Obstetrics and Gynecology Speaks Spanish

December 2014

10

Feature Stories 10 “Selfie with Our Elfie” Winners Enter our $1,000 sweepstakes. These kids did.

12 Rags to Riches

How a local mom turned a hobby into a thriving business.

14 Best Gifts of the Season Terrific ideas for the kids on your list.

16 A Better New Year’s Bash Have a blast without leaving home.

22 Celebrate Our New Website We got a makeover! Looks great on any screen and features an interactive map and handy directory.

Every Issue

12

6

Dear Reader

8

Bits and Pieces

The Ballad of Tiny Tim

Take Me to the Big Top

Time for a Little Something

38 Marketplace

Visions of Sugar Plum Fairies

42 Humor Break

24 Cooking with Kids A Nose So Sweet

26 Calendar of Events Have Yourself a Victorian Christmas

18 Family Fun

Sparkle, Shimmer, Shine 20 Ice Dream

22 4 SonomaFamilyLife

On the cover: Owen David Barmore (4) is the winner of the “Selfie with Our Elfie” cover contest. Photo by Fran Russell at Russell Event Photography.

SonomaFamilyLife.com December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Do You have A Pinched Nerve?

Dear Friend, I wanted to let everyone know about a single moment that altered my life forever.

But before I tell you about my experience, I wanted to tell you my story from the start.

Let me start by explaining the photo. That’s me, Dr. Thau with my niece. People recognize me walking my dogs and say, “I know you!

You’re Dr. Thau!” Well that’s me.

Twenty-four years ago something happened that changed my life forever.

Let me tell you my story.

I was walking home from work, headed to meet my boyfriend when the unexpected struck. A car hit me. I was in a crosswalk. I flew through the air landing 10 feet ahead. It was terrifying! Fortunately, I had no broken bones but my knee was bigger than a football.

That single moment altered my life.

Advised against rushing into surgery, Doctors had no viable options other than drugs which made me feel not like me. I wanted to be better.

Thankfully, a friend sent me to her chiropractor. I’d never been to one. The chiropractor did an exam, took some films and “adjusted” me. He even fixed an old injury I thought I’d always have to suffer with.

Now family and friends entrust Me to treat their infants, toddlers, and teens.

Instead of running for medication and treatments that mask real problems, we are able to correct the issues that actually cause ear infections and many “common” childhood illnesses.

People come to me for all sorts of problems: back and neck problems, chronic pain, headaches, migraines, shoulder/ arm pain, whiplash, car accidents, asthma, allergies, numbness in limbs, athletic injuries, just to name a few.

If drugs make people well, then those who take the most should be healthiest, but this simply isn’t the case! With chiropractic we don’t add anything to the body or take anything from it. We find interference in the nervous system and remove it thus enhancing the healing capacities of the body. We get tremendous results...it’s really as simple as that.

Here’s what some of my patients have to say: “I’m an electrician. I lifted something too heavy for three men. Instantly I had agonizing shooting back and leg pain. I

couldn’t walk. I had my wife call Dr. Thau who explained how serious my condition was. Her caring, and precision helped me avoid major back surgery, a life on pain pills, and enabled me to walk again. I am forever grateful for Dr. Thau’s chiropractic craft and skills.” Matt A. “My reflux gave me problems for YEARS! For the better portion of my adult life I’ve taken purple pills and tums daily. I tried it ALL. Only Dr. Thau was able to help me fix it and now I rarely suffer + I don’t need ANY pills!” Mary M. Several times daily patients thank me for helping them with their health problems but I can’t really take credit.

Find out for yourself and benefit from an AMAZING OFFER. Look, it shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg to correct your health.

You are going to write a check to someone for your health care expenses, you may as well write one for a lesser amount for chiropractic. When you bring in this article

by December 31, 2014 you will receive my entire new patient exam for $27. That’s with X-ray, exam, report of findings...the whole ball of wax. This exam could cost you $350 elsewhere. Great care at a great fee...

Please, I hope there’s no misunderstanding about quality of care just because I have a lower exam fee. You’ll get great care at a great fee. My qualifications... I’m a graduate of The National College of Chiropractic,

regularly go to monthly educational chiropractic seminars. I’ve been entrusted to care for tiny babies and neighbors you may know. I just have that low exam fee to help more people who need care.

My partners, Dr. Taatjas, Dr. Lee and Dr. Phifer and I are ready to help you. Our offices are both friendly and warm and we try our best to make you feel at home. We have a wonderful service, at an exceptional fee. Our practice is called REDWOOD CHIROPRACTIC and we now have two locations. Our main office is located at 937 Lakeville Street Petaluma, phone number is 763-8910. Dr. Taatjes would love to help you at this location. Call Alex, Stephanie or Wendy. Our second location is at 225 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, with Dr. Thau (who is awesome), and the phone number is 775-2545. Call today for an appointment. We can help you. Thank you.

—Dr. Rona Thau P.S. When accompanied by the first I am also offering the second family member this same examination for $10.

AMAZING OFFER New patient exam for $27 Second family member for $10 December 31, 2014

Call 775-2545 or 763-8910 redwoodchiropractic.com

ADVERTISEMENT www.sonomafamilylife.com

December 2014

SonomaFamilyLife 5

Dear Reader

H

appy holidays to our loyal readers! Thanks for making us the number one lifestyle magazine for local parents. We hope the spirit of the season has visited you. It sure Sharon Gowan Publisher/Editor seems to have Owen Sharon@family-life.us Barmore, our terrific cover model, smiling.

He is the big winner of the “Selfie with Our Elfie” cover contest! We’ll be selecting another lucky child to be on a future cover.

There’s still time for you to enter to win $1,000 in prizes. It’s easy. Turn to page 11 to find a list of participating businesses around the county, and log on to sonomafamilylife. com to find even more. Go to one—or all!—of them and take a Selfie (or a picture of your kids or pets) with our Elfie. Then e-mail your Selfie to us. Take a Selfie at multiple locations and increase your chances of winning. Join our e-mail list for updates and news. The last day to enter is December 17.

If you like our monthly calendar of fun things to do around the county, you’ll love our new website! With just a few clicks, you’ll find a vast directory of parenting resources, including schools, preschools, and after-school programs. And it looks sharp, too, even on your phone or tablet. Be sure to check out the snazzy calendar that shows you where events are on a map. See page 22 to find out about all of our site’s fabulous features.

Office Manager Patricia Ramos patty@family-life.us

Business Marketing Jolie Cook jolie@family-life.us

How are you doing with your gift-giving list? If you, or Grandma and Grandpa, are still looking for that knock-it-out-ofthe-park present for the kids, consider an heirloom-quality doll made by mother and entrepreneur Jess Brown (“Rags to Riches,” page 12).

Maybe you’ve wrapped up holiday shopping but are plumb out of ideas for keeping the kids busy over winter break. Take them ice-skating! There are several outdoor rinks that are open through the holidays (“Ice Dream,” page 20).

Renee Nutcher renee@family-life.us

Features Editor Melissa Chianta melissa@family-life.us

Production Manager Donna Bogener production@family-life.us

Marketing Jordan Lewis jordan@family-life.us

Cover Photographer Fran Russell

Open Weekends 10am-6pm

Contributing Writers Gudrun Cram-Drach John Corippo Bull Garlington

Calendar Anna Freeman

Billing Jan Wasson-Smith

Publishing Office 134 Lystra Court, Suite A Santa Rosa, CA 95403 Tel 707-586-9562 Fax 707-586-9571

1400 Valley House Dr. Rohnert Park

SonomaMountainMarketplace.com 6 SonomaFamilyLife

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

n n u Ffou F e r thfor the

i Learn Fair presents…

leilFya!mily! om ha Whole WF

What Do You Want To Learn?

Celebrate what interests, inspires and engages! Discover new ideas, passions, creative opportunities and resources.

Meet local experts for answers!

January

on Stage!

31 ree F

Saturday • 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Coddingtown Mall, Santa Rosa

Get Inspired!

e v i L s Performance Activities All Day!

Bits & Pieces

The Ballad of Tiny Tim

I

f Santa Claus had an evil twin, it would definitely be Scrooge. The ultimate miser is the bad guy of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol, and the story of his redemption is the subject of the musical that bears his name. Academy Award–winning English composer and lyricist Leslie Bricusse adapted the 1970 film Scrooge for his 1992 musical. You can see Tiny Tim and the gang at Spreckels Performing Arts Center in Rohnert Park through December 21. Shows are Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $26, $24 for seniors and youth, and $22 for students and children under 12. See rpcity.org for more information. ¶

Take Me to the Big Top

W

ant to shake-up the usual menu of holiday activities with a little daring and excitement? Go to Le Cirque de Boheme and let the knife throwers and fire jugglers make your jaw drop. The one-hour 1920s-style Parisian circus will also feature eccentric clowns, mimes, hat jugglers, ball spinners, and a unicyclist or two. The magic happens at Cornerstone Sonoma, in Sonoma, December 21–23 and December 26 and 27, with shows at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for kids 15 and younger. A portion of each ticket sale will benefit the Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance. Go to cornerstonesonoma.com to buy tickets and to see images of the circus players in costume. ¶

Time for a Little Something

S

ee Pooh, Christopher Robin, Eeyore, Piglet, and other beloved A. A. Milne characters in H-Town Youth Theater’s production of Winnie the Pooh Christmas Tail. Intended for young children, the play will take the audience to the Hundred Acre Wood, where Pooh and his friends will learn the value of sharing and caring for each other. The show will be held at Raven Theater in Healdsburg December 14–23; Saturdays 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., and Sundays 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door; children two and under are free. See raventheater.org for more information. ¶

8 SonomaFamilyLife

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Visions of Sugar Plum Fairies

W

hat would Christmas be without Clara and her Nutcracker? For 26 years, the Stapleton School of the Performing Arts has provided an elaborately costumed and choreographed performance of The Nutcracker. More than 250 Stapleton students, as well as professional guest artists, will create a polished, enchanting performance. See Clara and the prince journey to the Land of the Sugar Plum Fairy, watch the prince battle the evil Mouse Queen, and be charmed by waltzing flowers.

The show is at the Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium on December 6 and 7 at 1 and 5 p.m. Tickets are $34 for adults and $22 for seniors and children 18 and under. See stapletonschool.org for details. ¶

We’re GRATEFUL!

When Forestville had the chance to own downtown land for a park, we jumped on it. But we had to prove that we could maintain it.

Fine Tree Care donated 5 Years worth of tree maintenance as a gift to our town because Jeff Rebischung understood how much we want this park. His agreement was crucial to get Open Space District funding and to sway people who didn’t think we could do it. When crews showed up to trim the trees that had been neglected for decades, people stood in awe as they saw our vision become reality.

THANK YOU! You helped make our dream come true!

To Learn what Fine Tree Care can do for you…call us to evaluate your property

And thanks for taking care of your own needs!

Our tiny town doesn’t have public restrooms...YET!

www.sonomafamilylife.com

707-874-2018 www.SonomaTree.com December 2014

Licensed, Bonded & Insured

Licensed Bonded & Insured

SonomaFamilyLife 9

Kelina, Kody & Kadyn at Cold Stone

Take a ‘Selfie with Our Elfie’ Kids Clayton at Sonoma Mountain Marketplace

KaMaile e Ar t & So ul Music

Dannielle at Bernstein Orthodontics

Owen & Betsy at Cold Stone

Jiana at Snoopy’s Home Ice

Blue Jen na a t ntal e D Apple Group Kimmy at Great Clips

10 SonomaFamilyLife

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Sweepstakes Our Selfie Elves will be hanging out at these participating locations, waiting to have their selfies taken and e-mailed to Sonoma Family Life Magazine before December 17 TH.

WIN 1000 IN PRIZES $

Check our website for Elf locations!

Advanced Auto Glass & Detail Art & Soul Music School Bernstein Orthodontics Blue Apple Dental Group Cal Skate Cold Stone Creamery Double Decker Lanes Exchange Bank

Goodwill Redwood Empire Great Clips for Hair Mountain Mike’s Pizza Right at Home Riley Street Art Supply Snoopy’s Ice Home Sonoma Mountain Marketplace Vibe Yoga Studios

E-mail your Selfie to contest@sonomafamilylife.com

SonomaFamilyLife.com

Rags to Riches

J

A Local Mom Turns Dolls into Big Business

Photos courtesy of Jess Brown Design.

ess Brown is just one of millions, if not billions, of mothers all over the world who has made rag dolls for her children. But her particular expression of maternal love has taken an interesting turn into the world of

design, fashion, and international business.

It all started 13 years ago when Brown, a stay-at-home mom, was looking through her collection of vintage textiles, garnered from years of flea-marketing, and was inspired to make a doll for her then three-year-old daughter, Stella.

Using tea bags, she dyed cotton muslin to match her daughter’s olive-colored skin. Then she fashioned a body sporting skinny limbs and an oval face, and stitched on star eyes and a heart mouth. To create the doll’s costume and accessories, she dipped into her

12 SonomaFamilyLife

piles of opulent fabrics, using bits of cashmere for the doll’s hair.

Needless to say, Stella’s new friend was a keeper.

When Brown’s son, Tiger, came along three years later, she made a doll for him, too.

In 2005, Brown and a friend opened a children’s boutique in downtown Petaluma called Maude, which, for the sake of economy, they filled with things they had made, including Brown’s dolls. It was Brown’s chance to see if the dolls might appeal to someone other than her kids, and to her delight, they did. Customers liked them, and area storeowners started to carry them. She realized she might be onto something.

A couple of years later, in 2007, she decided to venture past the Bay Area and take her wares to a trade show in New York City. Her sophisticated aesthetic got the attention of buyers—and an editor from Martha Stewart Living magazine.

She came home with orders and, with each trade show she went to, more business came in. Determined not to allow the demands of doll-making infringe on her

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

time with her children, she worked when the kids were in school and after they had gone to bed, sometimes until 1 or 2 a.m.

It wasn’t long before she was selling dolls internationally, in France and Korea especially, as well as in Japan and Australia.

Even so, when Bottega Veneta called in 2011, she “thought it was a

Despite her success, it has only been within the last year or so that Brown has even thought of herself as a designer. joke.” The luxury-leather products company wanted life-sized dolls to accessorize with jewelry and handbags for their window displays during Fashion Week.

It was one of a few “pinch me” moments for Brown.

Another was when that Martha Stewart contact came through, and the magazine ran an article about her dolls in a 2012 issue. It was then that orders really started taking off.

Brown’s business was booming, but her body was hurting. She had made the decision in 2009 to outsource the cutting and stitching of doll “blanks” to Bay Area companies, but she was still doing most of the detail work herself, developing a flaming case of tendonitis along the way.

Winter Camps!

Pirate Fairy Camp, Dec. 22, 23,24, Tangled in Winter, Dec. 29, 30,31

have to do everything herself, she says.

Today, she and her staff of 4 produce 300 dolls a month, 400 during the holiday season. She still has a hand in producing every single one, and has even had the energy to design a women’s clothing line and write a book, The Making of a Rag Doll (Chronicle, 2014).

M-W: 9am-3pm Movie Showing M-W: 3pm-5pm *Mu

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Le s 5 son s fo Cla r all sse ages s in *Dan clud ce, Y ing C oga *Bir eramics , Dr thd ama ay c l P a sses ar t Take a ies ‘Selfie with & Ca mps Our Elfie’ Location

Despite her success, it has only been within the last year or so that she has Take a ‘Selfie with even thought of herself as a designer. It Our Elfie’ was not exactly her chosenLocation field. She has two degrees in early childhood education—none in design—and was a teacher before she became a mom.

* Ar t

MUSIC | ART | DANCE | YOGA | DRAMA

Art & Soul Music School

“I just like to make stuff,” she says.

Even though she’s gone big, Brown says she was excited when Sonoma Family Life Magazine called to interview her. Raised in Marin County, it is important to her to stay connected to her local roots, which have nourished her blossoming career.

www.artandsoulmusic.com • 707-575-7701 4861 Old Redwood Hwy., Santa Rosa

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$

Though Brown no longer owns Maude, the store still carries her dolls, which retail for $124–$325.

Drop in and check out what caught Bottega’s eye. Or simply look online at www.jessbrowndesign.com.

Maybe you’ll be inspired to get crafty yourself. ¶

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Rohnert Park: 360 Rohnert Park Expressway Santa Rosa: Coddingtown Mall Take a 750 Farmers Ln. (by Ross) 2240 Mendocino Ave. (by Safeway) ‘Selfie with 750 Stony Pt. Rd. (by Starbucks) Our Elfie’ Locations 1425 Fulton Rd. (by Raley’s) ANY HAIRCUT ANY HAIRCUT 2700 Yulupa Ave. (by CVS) $ 99 9018 Brooks Rd. (by $ Mary’s 99 Windsor: Pizza) Healdsburg: 1017 Vineyard Plaza ANY HAIRCUT ANY HAIRCUT Sonoma: $ 99 ANY $ (Maxwell 99 Village Center) 19217 Sonoma Hwy. HAIRCUT ANY HAIRCUT Terra Linda: One Shopping $ Northgate 99 $ Center 99

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Finally, about a year and a half ago, she surrendered to her aching fingers and wrists, and hired two sewers. She cried when she realized that she didn’t

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At participating greatclips.com | salonjobs.greatclips.com | greatclipsfranchise.com | Proud partner of salons.

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*No purchase or payment necessary to enter to win. Contest starts 7/15/2014 and ends 9/5/2014. Open to US/Canadian residents 18 and over. Other restrictions apply.

For prize details, odds of winning, complete Official Rules and to enter go to www.greatclips.com. Void where prohibited.

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*No purchase or payment necessary to enter to win. Contest starts 7/15/2014 and ends 9/5/2014. Open to US/Canadian residents 18 and over. Other restrictions apply.

For prize details, odds of winning, complete Official Rules and to enter go to www.greatclips.com. Void where prohibited.

greatclips.com | salonjobs.greatclips.com | greatclipsfranchise.com | Proud partner of

www.sonomafamilylife.com

MUSIC |

December 2014

Find us at

SonomaFamilyLife 13

*No purchase or payment necessary to enter to win. Contest starts 7/15/2014 and ends 9/5/2014. Open to US/Canadian residents 18 and over. Other restrictions apply.

For prize details, odds of winning, complete Official Rules and to enter go to www.greatclips.com. Void where prohibited.

Books (cont’d.)

Junior Builder: Rescue Vehicles

Silver Dolphin Books, 2014, $16.95, silverdolphinbooks.com.

Ages: 5+.

Here I Am

by Patty Kim Capstone Young Readers, 2014, $14.95, capstoneyoungreaders.com.

Hotlist Dog, Cold Dog Ages: 5for to 10.everyone’s wish Holiday finds

by Frann Preston-Gannon POW!/powerHouse Books, 2014, $12.95, Each year, the National Parenting Publications Awards (NAPPA) enlists the help of expert judges and families powkidsbooks.com. forwiththe to play with, test and evaluate hundreds of new children’s products. Here are the gems theyFun honored goldentire family. awards this year. All proved high in quality, entertainment and educational value, and – of course – in fun.

See the entire list of gold, silver and honors winners at NAPPAawards.com or download the app from Cozi – the online family calendar and organizer – and view all the winners on your phone.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Reality Shock!

Toys

ENTER THE NAPPA SWEEPSTAKES

at Facebook.com/N for your chance to winAPPAawards of award winning toys,a collection books and games.

Sisters

by Raina Telgemeier Scholastic Corporation/Graphix, 2014, $10.99, scholastic.com.

Ages: 8 to 12.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, 2014, $28.95, ripleybooks.com. Ages: 13+.

Air Storm Firetek Bow Zing, $29.97, www.firetekbow.com.

Ages: 8+.

Bunzi

Chillafish $49.99, Chillafish.com. Ages: 1 to 3.

Get Out Play Kit Waboba, $24.99, waboba.com.

Ages: 5+.

The Cat, the Dog, Little Red, the Exploding Eggs, the Wolf, and Grandma

Gravity Maze

ThinkFun, Inc., $29.99, thinkfun.com.

Ages: 8 to Adult.

The End (Almost)

by Jim Benton Scholastic Corporation/ Scholastic Press, 2014, Geomag, $45, 2014, $16.99, Paint Your Own Scholastic Corporation/Klutz, Press, scholastic.com. Porcelain geomagworld.com.

Party Kit scholastic.com. $16.99, $16.99, klutz.com. Ages: 8+.

Ages: 5+. 4 to 8.

Ages: MindWare, $39.95, 3 to 5. mindware.com. Ages: Ages: 8+.

by Diane Fox, illustrated by Christyan

Gyrobot

Thames and Kosmos, $44.95, thamesandkosmos.com.

Ages: 6+.

The World Of Eric Carle Learning Table and Chair

Music

Creative Baby Inc., $49.99, creativebabyinc.com. Ages: 3+.

KOR Geomag Make Your Own Fox,Paco ScholasticWashi Corporation/Scholastic Tazoo Tape Stickers

Wikki Stix One-of-a-Kind Piggy Bank

Razor E100 Glow Razor USA, $169.99, razor.com. Ages: 8+.

Omnicor, Inc./The Wikki Stix Company, $24.95, wikkistix.com.

Ages: 5 to 8.

YOXObug Flye

Jam on Rye –

Just Say Hi! – Brady Rymer

Absolutely Positively Getting Along – Cool Beans Music, East Coast Recording Company & Robinsong Studio, 2013, $15, absolutelypositivelygettingalong.com.

Ages: 5 to 10.

14 SonomaFamilyLife

by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Marcellus Hall, Scholastic Corporation/Arthur A. Levine Books, 2014, $17.99, scholastic.com. Ages: 4 to 8.

Play from Scratch, $24.99, yoxo.com. Ages: 7+.

Brady Rymer and the Little Band that Could, 2014, $15, bradyrymer.com.

Ages: 2 to 7.

Various Artists

What’s New? The Zoo!

Randy Kaplan

Yellow Thing Records & Books, 2014, $14.99, randykaplan.com. Fun for the entire family.

Simply Fantastic: An Introduction to Classical Music

The Secret Mountain, 2014, $16.95, thesecretmountain.com. Ages: 4+.

‘Til The Morning: Lullabies and Songs of Comfort – Through the Woods –

The Okee Dokee Brothers The Okee Dokee Brothers, 2014, $19.95, okeedokee.org.

Fun for the entire family.

Edie Carey & Sarah Sample

Edie Carey & Sarah Sample, 2014, $15, ediecarey.com and sarahsample.com.

Fun for the entire family.

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Virtual & Apps MiP

WowWee, $99.99, wowwee.com.

Fun for the entire family.

National Geographic Kids Magazine iPad App

Dr. Panda’s Restaurant 2

National Geographic Society, Free, itunes.apple.com. Ages: 6 to 14.

Fun for the entire family.

TribePlay Limited, $2.99, drpandagames.com. Ages: 3 to 7.

Star Wars Scene Maker Skylanders Trap Team

Activision, $74.99 for starter pack, skylanders.com. Fun for the entire family.

Disney Publishing Worldwide, Free w/ in-app purchase, disneystories.com.

Ages: 6 to 8.

Tiggly Shapes

Tiggly - Kidtellect Inc., $29.95, get.tiggly.com/shapes.

Ages: 18 months to 4 years.

DVDs Dino Dan: Tyrannosaurus Trek

NCircle Entertainment, 2014, $12.99, NCircleEntertainment.com.

Ages: 2 to 4.

The Snowman

NCircle Entertainment, 2014, $9.99, NCircleEntertainment.com.

Fun for the entire family.

Cat in the Hat: Space is the Place!

NCircle Entertainment, 2014, $10.99, NCircleEntertainment.com.

Ages: 2 to 6.

Pocoyo: Season Set Volume 1

NCircle Entertainment, 2014, $22.99, NCircleEntertainment.com.

Ages: 2 to 4.

Octonauts: Calling All Sharks!

NCircle Entertainment, 2014, $12.99, NCircleEntertainment.com.

Ages: 2 to 4.

www.sonomafamilylife.com

December 2014

SonomaFamilyLife 15

A Better New Year’s Bash

By Gudrun Cram-Drach

Make Your Own Fun with These Kid-Friendly Activities

T

he typical New Year’s Eve party, often consisting of late-night dancing and too much champagne, is not exactly a kid affair. Nor is sitting in front of the television all night just to watch the ball drop in Times Square. So, this year, why not make your home into a family party zone, and then everyone can have fun and enjoy the transition to a brand new year.

Change the clocks. If midnight is too late for your little one, avoid a meltdown with some DIY time travel.

Set the clock to 11 p.m. whenever you like, then party down until “midnight.”

Tuck in the tots with a new bedtime story, and celebrate the real midnight with the grownups and older children.

Disguise yourself. Have a masquerade ball, and invite everyone to dress up. Put on a Venetian-style mask, or wear a crazy costume. If 16 SonomaFamilyLife

everyone is dressed up, the night will feel more special. Amp up the elegance by learning a few ballroom dance moves, and then teach them to your kids. The waltz is the easiest.

Glue it down. Make a poster to commemorate all the important moments of the past year. Glue photos, flyers from special events, and magazine cutouts to an 18”x24” piece of poster board or foam core. Using colored pencils or markers, draw pictures or

write reminders of memorable events, personal messages, and hopes for the future around the photos. If relatives are coming by, ask them to bring something to contribute to your poster. Hang it in a common space until you make a new one next year.

Splish-splash. Run a special bath with bubbles or bombs that color the water and add sparkles. Fill the tub with balloons, and let your child wear a funny hat and glasses. Bring in plastic noisemakers, and play music in the bathroom to make the atmosphere even more festive.

Let it glow. Remember black lights? Easily found in big-box stores or online, these long-wave ultraviolet lamps make bright colors glow. With fluorescent or glow-in-the-dark paint, paint pasta and use it for making jewelry or pictures. Decorate the kids with bright or white face paint, and make sure they are wearing something white. It’s so much fun to realize your white t-shirt can glow bright purple.

Tonic water (with quinine) makes

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

things glow under a black light, too, so incorporate the mixer into your beverages, gelatin desserts, or water balloons.

Share. In a calmer moment or perhaps over dinner, tell each member of your family why you are proud of them, and what you love about them.

Ask everyone to share one or two New Year’s resolutions with the rest of the family. Then discuss how you can work together over the next year to help each other succeed.

Sing and dance. With a little extra technology, such as a karaoke application (TheKaraokeChannel. com), or the current interactive dance

The best part about celebrating New Year’s Eve at home? You’ll always have someone to kiss! app on your home gaming console, you can turn your living room into a nightclub. Or just make a playlist of high-energy club music that the whole family can dance to.

Light up the silver screen.

Maybe you’d prefer a calmer evening of popcorn and a good cuddle on the couch. Figure out in advance how to display a slideshow of your digital photos and videos on the television, and remember the past year with the family. Or simply rent a holiday-themed movie.

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The best part about celebrating New Year’s Eve at home? You’ll always have someone to kiss! ¶ Gudrun Cram-Drach is freelance writer and mom of twin toddlers.

She can’t wait to party down with her kids on New Year’s Eve.

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Santa Rosa

2280 Santa Rosa Ave 707-544-2828

Rohnert Park

1451 Southwest Blvd 707-795-4433

Petaluma

919 Lakeville St 707-769-8989

December 2014

Healdsburg 1051 Vine St 707-433-2911

San Rafael 2100 4th St 415-454-4300

Santa Rosa

3781 Cleveland Ave 707-595-6505

SonomaFamilyLife 17

Family Fun

Sparkle, Shimmer, Shine Tree-Lighting Ceremonies Lift Spirits

T

he twinkle of illuminated Christmas trees is part of what makes this time of year special. Find a piece of the magic at these area events.

Guerneville A Miracle on Main Street: 13th Annual Holiday Extravaganza awaits visitors to downtown Guerneville December 4–6. On December 4, 4–7 p.m., enjoy a merchant open house, caroling, an appearance by Santa Claus, and food and drink. Then from 7–8 p.m. the Great Tree Lighting Ceremony will take center stage. During the holidays, 18 SonomaFamilyLife

the Chamber of Commerce enlists the help of area 12–17-year-olds in selling raffle tickets, the proceeds from which support future holiday celebrations. Raffle entrants will have the chance to win $300 in cash as well as thousands of dollars in other prizes. On December 5, the local girl and boy who have sold the most raffle tickets will be honored at the Holiday Princess and Prince Competition and Crowning Ceremony, 6–9 p.m., at Chef Patrick’s. Tickets to the event are $35. The festival will finish off on

December 6 with the Parade of Lights, 7–9 p.m. Visit www.russianriver.com or call 869-9000 to learn more.

Petaluma At the Light Up a Life tree-lighting event on December 5, 7–8 p.m., in Center Park, Petaluma, thousands of bright lights will honor the lives, hopes, and dreams of the people of the community. With a $10 donation to hospice, a light can be dedicated to a loved one. Contact Hospice of Petaluma at 778-6242 to name a light or for event details. See

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Nov 21 - Dec 21

Deck the Halls Medley hospicelightupalife.org for similar events throughout Sonoma County.

Jack Frost Trilogy

Christmas

Mrs. Cratchit

The Naughty Stocking Song

Rohnert Park Watch the redwoods sparkle at the 32nd Annual Holiday Lights Celebration in Rohnert Park’s City Center Plaza, December 6, 5–7 p.m.

The longest running event in Rohnert Park offers a tree-lighting ceremony, Christmas carols, refreshments, and a visit from Santa Claus. A cherished tradition, the event is no doubt part of the childhood memories of those who are now parents themselves. See rohnertparkchamber.org for details.

The Night Before

and the Tiny Tims

12 Days of Christmas

Audience Participation!

707-523-4185 x101 or www.6thstreetplayhouse.com SFZ-ZL-HalfPg.pdf 1 11/13/14 3:05 PM

Sebastopol Who needs reindeer when you’ve got a fire truck? Santa will appear in his red chariot at Sebastopol’s free holiday tree-lighting ceremony on December 4, 5–8 p.m., at the Sebastopol Town Square. Enjoy free refreshments and live entertainment; the tree will be lit up at 6:30 p.m. Log on to sebastopol.org for information.

Windsor Enjoy small-town enchantment at the Windsor Holiday Celebration on the Green on December 4, 5–8 p.m. The Windsor Town Green will be aglow with old-fashioned lamplights, a charming scene in which to take a $1 horse-drawn carriage ride or listen to Windsor schoolchildren sing. If you are adverse to chilly nights, go to the Huerta Gymnasium, where your kids can take $1 Polar Express train rides, decorate gingerbread cookies, enjoy a crafts workshop, or, for $8, get their pictures taken with Santa. If chocolate, not gingerbread, is what you crave, go to the See’s Candy fundraiser at the Windsor Library. Just make sure to go back to the Green by 7:45 p.m. for the tree lighting. See townofwindsor.com for details. ¶ www.sonomafamilylife.com

December 2014

SonomaFamilyLife 19

Family Fun

Ice Dream

Skate Your Way through the Holidays

W

hat better place to capture the spirit of the season than at an ice rink—especially one that’s outdoors?

Here is a selection of seasonal open-air rinks, as well as an indoor local favorite. Put on your skates, grab the kids, and enjoy a quintessentially winter thrill.

Union Square, San Francisco 415-781-2688 unionsquareicerink.com Of course, the consummate seasonal rink is in Union Square—the Today show named it one of the best rinks in the country. Kids will be wowed by the giant Christmas tree as they skate on ice nestled in bustling downtown San Francisco. The rink is open daily through January 19. Hours are 10 a.m.–11:30 p.m., with 90-minute skating sessions beginning on every even hour. Admission is $11; kids eight and under are $7. Rent skates for $6. Buy tickets online. A portion of this year’s proceeds benefit the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department.

20 SonomaFamilyLife

Justin Herman Plaza 4 Embarcadero Center, San Francisco 415-837-1931 embarcaderocenter.com At the Embarcadero Center, the Bay Area’s largest ice rink, you can skate with a waterfront view. Hours through January 4 are 10 a.m.–9:30 p.m., Sunday–Thursday, and 10 a.m.–11:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday. Open until 11:30 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. Ninety-minute sessions start at every even hour. See the website for times the rink will be closed for private parties. Admission is $10; kids seven and under $6. Rent skates for $4.

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

ATTENTION LOVING PARENTS,

Little Ice Rink 523 South Shore Center, Alameda (Petco parking lot) 510-629-1-ICE (1423) thelittleicerink.com Skate on 4,100 square feet of ice at South Shore Center’s outdoor ice rink, which runs through January 19. Wobbly skaters can get a “Bobby” to help them balance.

Panera will be offering coffee, hot chocolate, and cookies on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Hours are 3–10 p.m., Monday–Thursday, and noon–10 p.m., Friday–Sunday. Admission, which includes skate rental, is $15; kids 8 and under are $10. If you bring your own skates, admission is $10, $6 for kids. Download a schedule of skating sessions from the website. You can also download and sign required waivers for yourself and kids, or you can sign them when you get there.

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December 2014

TS

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©P N

This year-round indoor rink has been a local favorite since 1969. Celebrate the season with Snoopy and other fanciful characters at the 11th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting and Skating Exhibition on December 5, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Enjoy hot cider and sugar cookies at 6:30 p.m., and then watch a mini ice show, which will include the lighting of a 25-foot tree, from 7:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Kids can meet Snoopy after the show. The event is free, but unlike past years, anyone above the age of two must have a ticket to attend. Only four tickets per person will be allowed. Pick up free tickets at the Ice Arena box office. Admission to the public skate following the event is $5 for all ages and includes skate rental. ¶

Aircraft; Helicopters; Balloons; Historic Aircraft

www.sonomacountyairport.org 707.565.7240 Follow STS on

SonomaFamilyLife 21

Celebrate Our Fresh Facelift We’ve been working on sprucing up our website, and we’ve finally finished. Go to sonomafamilylife.com and check out these new features, guaranteed to make parenting life easier. The uncluttered design showcases an intuitive, user-friendly interface. Translation: You’ll find what you need with a few quick clicks.

Directories You’ll Dig Need to plan a party? Find a new health-care provider? Line up some after-school activities?

Our expansive directories will help you meet your family’s needs, whether you’re looking for preschool and day-care options, parent support groups, tutors and schools, or summer camps.

The Smartest Calendar Around The calendar section not only keeps you informed about a plethora of fun, local, family-friendly events, it also tells you how to get to them. It will show where the event venue is on a map, and then provide driving directions. And with just a few simple clicks, it will also list surrounding events, retail stores, and restaurants, in case you want to have dinner before the show, or make a shopping trip after your visit to a museum.

22 SonomaFamilyLife

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

r New Website Share Us with a Friend

Our website is linked to our Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube accounts. Add a little fun to your day with our entertaining, informative posts, and interact with fellow local parents.

Enter to Win! We regularly hold contests that you can easily enter online.

The latest is the “Selfies with Our Elfies” contest. Take a picture of yourself and our Family Life elf at participating businesses, and get entered to win $1,000 in prizes. See page 11 for more information. Find a map of participating vendors on our “Selfies with Elfies” Web page.

The Past Preserved Do you keep thinking about a great article from a past issue, but can’t recall which month it was published?

Feel free to browse through our digital archives.

Device-savvy Interface Whether you are using a smart phone, laptop, or tablet, our new site is device-responsive, which means it will modify screen size and app functions to suit whatever gadget is at hand.

www.sonomafamilylife.com

December 2014

SonomaFamilyLife 23

Cooking with Kids

A Nose So Sweet

Make Rudolph’s Chocolaty Treat a Tradition

By John Corippo

R

eindeer noses hardly sound like a palatable delicacy. But what if they were made of chocolate and peanut butter? Think of a nubby Kit Kat bar, and you’ll understand why these “noses” are one of our family’s favorite holiday treats.

While they may just be peanut butter balls to those with little imagination, reindeer noses have all the required elements of a perfect holiday goodie: They are simple to prepare, delicious, and fun to eat—though at times a bit messy; the chocolate covering will most definitely

Reindeer noses are as fun to play with as they are to eat.

melt in your small ones’ hands. I have come to love watching my sons place these bonbons on their noses, small drips of melted chocolate left in their wake. We like to make sure to put red sprinkles on one of the candies; it would be criminal to leave Rudolph out of the game.

Reindeer noses have become an anticipated part of our holiday celebration—my sons ask for them the minute we pull out decorations from storage. Perhaps they will become part of your family’s tradition, too.

Reindeer Noses Ingredients • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter • 3 tablespoons butter, softened • 1 cup powdered sugar • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips • Red sprinkles

Directions Mix the peanut butter and butter together in a mixing bowl. Gradually add in the powdered sugar until well combined and a dough ball is formed. Tightly cover with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to firm up dough.

Make 1-inch balls from dough. Place the balls on a cookie sheet lined with wax paper, and chill in the refrigerator for a half hour. The dough balls should be somewhat firm. They need to be able to hold their shape before being dipped in chocolate.

Melt chocolate chips in a small pot over very low heat, stirring frequently so that chips melt evenly. Dip dough balls into melted chocolate using a bamboo skewer. Remove balls from the skewer with a fork and set them on the lined cookie sheet. For a “Rudolph” nose, cover ball in red sprinkles while chocolate is still warm.

Place balls back in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

John Corippo lives in Ukiah, where he is a husband and father to two sons as well as a fire captain, paramedic, hazmat specialist, journalist, college instructor, avid sports fan, and stand-up paddleboard representative.

24 SonomaFamilyLife

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Great gift ideas from your local independent bookstore!

Available at Copperfield’s Books stores this holiday season.

COPPERFIELDSBOOKS.COM PETALUMA • SANTA ROSA • SEBASTOPOL HEALDSBURG • CALISTOGA • NAPA • SAN RAFAEL www.sonomafamilylife.com

December 2014

SonomaFamilyLife 25

December Calendar of Events

Have Yourself a Victorian Christmas

S

tep back in time, into the charm and beauty of the Victorian era, at the Great Dickens Christmas Fair, a Bay Area holiday tradition since 1970. Find yourself a Victorian costume and roam through 120,000 square-feet of 19th-century music halls, pubs, dance floors, and Christmas shops. Hang out with literary and historical greats, take in continuous performances on seven stages, catch a glimpse of Fagin and the like, or just shop.

A variety of ethnic food will be available, including English bangers, fish and chips, Greek delicacies, French onion soup, and, of course, desserts. Puppet shows, Victorian fairies, Father Christmas, interactive theatrical performances, and Victorian arts and crafts will delight kids. The event runs through December 21 at the Cow Palace in San Francisco. Tickets are $25–$30 for 13 and over, $12 for ages 5–12, and kids under 5 are free. See dickensfair.com for details. ¶

Monday 1 Outdoor Ice Skating in Napa. Open

during the holidays. Thru Jan. 11.

Download schedule from website. $12 including skates. 2nd & Coombs Streets, Napa. napaonice.com.

Sonoma State Seawolves Sports.

Various times. $2–$10. Sonoma State University (SSU) students free.

SSU. 1801 E. Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. sonomaseawolves.com.

Anthony Lieu, DMD • Rohnert Park, California

6420 Commerce Blvd Rohnert Park

Take Take a a ‘Selfie ‘Selfie with with Our Elfie’ Elfie’ Location Location

photo by Sharon Neves Photography

707.795.4523 BlueAppleDentalGroup.com 26 SonomaFamilyLife

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. Picnic, hike & commune

with ancient trees. 8 a.m. to 1 hour after sunset. Visitor Center 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Parking $8. Senior parking $7.

Armstrong Woods State Park. 17000 Armstrong Woods Rd., Guerneville.

869-2015.

a.m. Charles M. Schulz Museum. 2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa. 579-4452. schulzmuseum.org.

Union Square Ice Rink. 90-minute

skating sessions. Thru Jan. 19. 10 a.m.–11:30 p.m. $11. Under 8 $7.

Skate rental $6. Union Square, San Francisco. unionsquareicerink.com.

Museum Mondays for Little Ones.

Stories, crafts & movement activities.

Thru Feb. 23. 10 a.m.–noon. Kids $5.

Up to 2 adults per child free before 11 Take a FUN FOR ‘Selfie Our Elfie’ LE Location THE WHOTake a FAMILY!‘Selfie with

Tuesday 2 FREE Open Mic Night at Hopmonk Sebastopol. Musicians,

comedians,

with

Take Takeaa ‘Selfie ‘Selfiewith with Our OurElfie’ Elfie’ Location Location

Birthday Parties Public Skating Fundraisers Private & Group Instruction

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CAL SKATE Roller Skating & Blading Center

585-0500 • FOR RESERVATIONS: 585-0494 6100 COMMERCE BLVD. • WWW.CALSKATE.COM

For a better quality of life Take aa Take ‘Selfie with ‘Selfie with our Elfie’ Our Elfie’ Location Location

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December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

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SonomaFamilyLife 27

Rincon Valley Christian School In our school we share Christian values which promote: • A safe, positive Christian school community.

• An atmosphere that promotes spiritual development and learning.

• Dynamic academic, art, music and athletic programs.

• Proven academic success, preschool though 12th grade.

707-539-1486

www.rvchristian.org

Do you change

your own oil?

(in your cars, trucks,

boats, or motorcycles)

beat boxers, jugglers, hula hoopers.

All ages welcome! 7 p.m. Hopmonk Tavern. 230 Petaluma Ave., Sebastopol. hopmonk.com.

FREE Calligraphy & Cards.

Three-week course that will teach the basics of calligraphy & how to create unique art cards. Limited to ten participants. Sign up at library.

3:30–5:30 p.m. Cloverdale Regional Library. 401 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale. sonomalibrary.org.

FREE Plaisir de Lire. Enjoy

the pleasure of reading in French with Madame Benefield. Thru Dec. 16. Ages 5–12. Tuesdays. 3:15 p.m.

Central Santa Rosa Library. 211 E. St., Santa Rosa. sonomalibrary.org.

Wednesday 3 Meditation Group for Mothers.

Wednesdays. 8:30–9:45 a.m. $10 suggested donation. Sonoma Shambhala Center. 255 W. Napa St., Ste. 6, Sonoma. sonoma.shambhala.org.

FREE Holiday Book & Bake Sale.

Bag sale on Saturday! Thru Dec. 6. Wed. 4–7 p.m. Thurs. & Fri. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Guerneville Regional Library. 14107 Armstrong Woods Rd., Guerneville. sonomalibrary.org.

FREE Santa Rosa Original Certified

Whatever the vehicle you haven’t finished the job…

Until you’ve properly recycled the oil AND filter!

Fortunately there’s an easy, legal disposal method for

Used Oil AND Filters that’s 100% free, responsible, safe & convenient! Get the oil & filter recycling info you need to know at:

RecycleNow.org

OR CALL THE SONOMA COUNT Y ECODESK AT: 707 565 3375

28 SonomaFamilyLife

Farmers Market. Open year-round.

Wednesdays. 8:30 a.m.–noon.

Saturdays 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Wells Fargo Center for the Arts. 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. thesantarosafarmersmarket.com.

Thursday 4 Heartland Hospice Tree Lighting.

5–6:30 p.m. Santa’s Village in Village

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Terrace. Montgomery Village. Hwy. 12 at Farmers Lane, Santa Rosa.

The Phantom of the Opera. Andrew

Lloyd Webber’s soaring musical set in an 1881 haunted grand Paris opera house. Thru Dec. 7. 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. $12–$22. Burbank Auditorium. Santa Rosa Junior College. 1501 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa. santarosa.edu.

FANCY A FREE WAX? FOR FIRST-TIME GUESTS *

You must be a state resident.

europeanwax waxcenter.com

SANTA ROSA 707 528 2147

6335_SantaRosa_SonomaFamily.indd 1

5/15/14 3:33 PM

FREE Windsor Holiday Celebration 2014. Train rides, musical concert by

Windsor schoolchildren, carriage rides.

Bring your letter for Santa! Donate unwrapped toys. 5–8 p.m. Windsor Town Green. 701 McClelland Dr., Windsor. townofwindsor.com.

TheOpenSolar Living Center Every Day 10am-6pm

Scrooge the Musical. Thru

Dec. 21. Thursdays–Sundays. Various times. Adults $26. Seniors & youth $24. Students & kids under 12 $22.

Spreckels Performing Arts Center.

5409 Snyder Ln., Rohnert Park. rpcity.org.

Friday 5 FREE First Friday Night Sky.

Emphasis on stars, planets & interesting facts about the sky that night. 7 & 8:30 p.m. Arrive early for free parking pass. Santa Rosa Junior College Planetarium.

1501 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa. santarosa.edu.

FREE Mothers of Young Children.

Nurture friendships & enjoy creativity with moms in the community. First & third Fridays.

9:15 a.m. Sebastopol Christian Church. 7433 Bodega Ave., Sebastopol. sebchristian.com.

• Renewable Energy Education • Guided Tours • Picnics, Ponds & Playgrounds • Educational Displays • Healthy Snacks • Largest Straw bale Store • Huge Selection of Eco-Books • Toys, Clothing, Other Gifts • Solar Parts, Panels & Systems.

The Wizard of Oz. The classic musical

presented by Cinnabar’s Young Rep. Weekends. Thru Dec. 14. 7:30 p.m. www.sonomafamilylife.com

13771 S Hwy 101 • Hopland • 707-472-2403 December 2014

SonomaFamilyLife 29

Feliz Navidad

C

Arts

be

30 SonomaFamilyLife

hristmas is a grand celebration in Mexico, with multiple events marking the season.

The richly costumed dancers in Ballet Folklórico de Sacramento will introduce some of the country’s holiday traditions in their Posada Navideña performance.

Indigenous rituals of central México, music of the callejoneadas, and pastorelas, or traditional theater, will all be part of the show. The event will be held on December 19 at 7 p.m. in Person Theater at the Wells Fargo Center for the Arts, Santa Rosa. Pre-show family arts and crafts activities will be held at 6 p.m. while a posada celebration will held after the show. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children.

Go to wellsfargocenterarts.org to find out more. ¶

& 2 p.m. Dec. 14 7 p.m. Adults $15.

Under 21 $10. Cinnabar Theater. 3333 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma. 763-8920. cinnabartheater.org.

FREE Sonoma Valley Certified Farmers Market. Open

year-round.

Fridays. 9 a.m.–noon. Arnold Field.

241 W. First St., Sonoma. svcfm.org.

Saturday 6 Mr. & Mrs. Claus at Montgomery Village. Come see the grand couple

at their photo studio in Village Terrace from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Weekends.

Free glitter tattoos. Plus meet the Winter Queen of the Fairies who will be strolling through the Village.

Montgomery Village. Hwy. 12 at Farmers Lane, Santa Rosa.

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

FREE Petaluma Merchants’ Holiday Open House. Carolers,

horse & carriage rides, face painting, hot cider & much more! 11 a.m.–5 p.m. petalumadowntown.com.

Winter Workshops

FREE 45th Annual Calistoga

At the Charles M. Schulz Museum

Community Christmas Bazaar.

9 a.m.–4 p.m. Napa County Fairgrounds. Tubbs Building. 1435 Oak St., Napa. visitcalistoga.com.

December 13-January 2, 2015

call (707) 284-1272 for reservations or visit: www.schulzmuseum.org/learn/classes-camps

Mark West District Annual Craft Fair & Holiday Bazaar. Crafts, homemade

jams & candies, furniture, jewelry, candles, ornaments, clothes & much more. Vendor booth rentals benefit the district’s music program. 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

San Miguel Elementary School. 5350 Faught Rd., Santa Rosa. mwusd.org.

2014-15 SEASON

The Peking Acrobats® Wed, Jan. 21, 2015 at 6:30pm

Occidental Community Choir

$16 Children | $21 Adults

Winter Concert. “I

Dream of Rain.”

Dec. 6 & 7, 12–14. 3 & 8 p.m. $15.

Occidental Center for the Arts.

3850 Doris Murphy Ct. (Graton Rd. & Bohemian Hwy.), Occidental. occidentalchoir.org.

Don’t miss this awe-inspiring theatrical experience featuring China’s most gifted tumblers, contortionists, jugglers, cyclists, gymnasts with live musical accompaniment.

Back by Popular Demand!

First Annual Teddy Bear Tea.

Presented by Copperfield’s Books in celebration of Paddington Bear. $30 per parent/child pair. $20 for each additional person. Includes tea service, seasonal entertainment, and a Paddington Bear book. 3 p.m.–4:30 p.m. Reservations required. Muir’s Tea Room. 330 S. Main St., Sebastopol. 634-6143. muirstearoom.com.

FREE Family Folding Day. Learn origami! Rincon Valley Library. All ages. 1–3:30 p.m. 6959 Montecito Blvd., Santa Rosa. sonomalibrary.org.

FREE Travelling Lantern: A Christmas Carol. A

journey that melts the heart of Ebenezer

www.sonomafamilylife.com

FEB 27

Junie B. Jones

MAR 18

The Teacher from the Black Lagoon & Other Story Books

APR 14

DiNO Light

APR 28

Fancy Nancy The Musical

MAY 17

Choo-Choo Soul with Genevieve!

Give the gift of entertainment!

707.546.3600

December 2014

Additional generous support provided by:

·

wellsfargocenterarts.org

SonomaFamilyLife 31

Building Solid Christian Leaders

Scrooge & teaches him the joys of caring & giving. Ages 5 & up. 11 a.m. Healdsburg Regional Library. 139 Piper St., Healdsburg. sonomalibrary.org.

Join a Community dedicated to your child’s spiritual development • Strong Academic Programs • Leadership Training • College-Prep High School • Regular Chapel/Bible Study programs

Great Dickens Christmas Fair. A

PCA

Visit us online and register today! pacificchristianacademy.org

Affordable Christian Education

(707)823-2880

Pacific Christian Academy

Victorian Christmas card comes to life! Thru Dec. 21. Weekends. 10 a.m.–7.p.m. Adults $25–$30. Ages 5–12 $12. Under 5 free. Parking $10. Cow Palace Exhibition Halls. 2600 Geneva Ave., San Francisco. dickensfair.com.

FREE Friedman’s KidsWorx Creative

Winter fun for little ones!

$5 off Any Kindergym class at Finley Community Center

Workshop. Children’s Museum of Sonoma County hosts fun science activities. 9 a.m.–noon. Friedman’s Home Improvement. 4055 Santa Rosa Ave., Santa Rosa. cmosc.org.

Musical Theater Scenes Workshop.

www.santarosarec.com Expires 1/31/15

An active social experience for adults with children ages 8 months to 3½ yrs. playtime parachute games singing group activities

St. John School Seeing is believing...

www.sjshbg.org 32 SonomaFamilyLife

Students collaborate to create a choreographed musical on a student-selected theme using well-loved songs. 2 p.m. $8. Sonoma State University (SSU) students free.

SSU. Schroeder Hall. Green Music Center. 1801 East Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. gmc.sonoma.edu.

Scheduling individual tours now with the Principal Call 707-433-2758

Nutcracker. Stapleton School of the Performing Arts. Inspired dancing, stunning imagery & beautifully crafted sets & costumes. Thru Dec. 7. 1 p.m. & 5 p.m. Adults $34. Seniors & youth 18 & under $22. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium. 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. stapletonschool.org.

• Serving Pre-K - 8th Grade • Standards-Based Curriculum • Spanish, Technology, Music, Art, PE, & Sports Programs • Hot Lunch Served Daily • Welcoming Catholic & Non-Catholic Students

Dickens Holiday Crafts Fair. Live entertainment both days. Thru Dec. 7. Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $2. 12 & under free. Finley Community Center. 2060 W. College Ave., Santa Rosa. ci.santa-rosa.ca.us.

707.433.2758

Luther Burbank Open House. Thru

Dec. 7. Free rides on Rosie the

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Trolley between craft fair & Finley Community Center. Sat. & Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. 12 & older $2. Luther Burbank Home & Gardens. First & D Streets, Santa Rosa. lutherburbank.org.

& 14. Adults $25. One child, age 12 & under, free with each paying adult.

Each additional child $10. Safari West. 3115 Porter Creek Rd., Santa Rosa. safariwest.com.

FREE Calistoga Lighted Tractor

Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis.

Parade. 7–8 p.m. Downtown Lincoln Ave. between Cedar & Stevenson, Calistoga. visitcalistoga.com.

Registration 7:30 a.m. Costume contest 8 a.m. Run 9 a.m. $10–$50.

4th & A Streets, San Rafael. marinjinglebellrun.kintera.org.

Sunday 7 dinner at a variety of food trucks. 4 p.m. Parking $10. Cornerstone Sonoma. 23570 Arnold Dr., Sonoma. cornerstonesonoma.com.

Safari West Open House Days.

Snow Days Family Fundraiser.

Enjoy playing in real snow, learning about the science of snow & participating in special winter-themed activities. Thru Dec. 14. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Members $10.

General $15. Bay Area Discovery Museum. 557 McReynolds Rd., Sausalito. baykidsmuseum.org.

Thursday 11

FREE 10th Annual Lighting of the Snowmen Festival. Eat

Friday 12

Symphonic Wind Ensemble. The 55-member Sonoma State University (SSU) Symphonic Wind Ensemble.

7:30 p.m. $8. SSU students free. SSU. Green Music Center. 1801 East Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. gmc.sonoma.edu.

Cheetahs, giraffes, lemurs & an aviary. 9 & 11 a.m. 1 & 3 p.m. Dec. 7

Explore the Future You Deserve!

Saturday 13 A Night of Giving. The Fabulous

Women’s new charity event. Bring an appetizer to share & learn about local charities. Those who make donations will be given raffle tickets. The owner of the winning ticket will get to donate all the funds gathered that evening to the charity of her or his choice. 7–11

Y Winter Kids Club

Located on site at the Main Y! Located at the Main Y in Santa Rosa, kids will have traditional day camp fun in the middle of winter! Two 3-day sessions are available.

Activities will include crafts, games, songs, baking, field trips and swimming at the Y!

REGISTRATION BEGINS DECEMBER 1st

AGES:

6-12

* Children who are 5 may attend if currently enrolled in kindergarten.

SESSION DATES & THEMES: Session 1: Dec. 22 & 23 Session 2: Dec. 29 & 30

Theme: Frozen Fun Theme: Wacky Winter Party

TIMES:

8:30-4:00pm each day

* Extended hours available 4:00-6:00pm for additional fee

COST PER SESSION:

$66 Facility Member/ $80 Program Member/ $92Non-Member

Now Accepting Applications for 2015/16

INFORMATION & REGISTRATION:

Apply online at cardinalnewman.org

Cardinal newman

Call the YMCA Program Office at 707-544-1829 or www.scfymca.org

Pat Piehl at 546-6470, ext. 120, piehl@cardinalnewman.org 50 Ursuline Rd, Santa Rosa

www.sonomafamilylife.com

December 2014

Sonoma County Family YMCA 1111 College Ave. Santa Rosa, CA 95404 • 707-545-9622 F 707-544-7805 The Y is a non-profit Community Organization. Financial Assistance is available.

SonomaFamilyLife 33

ALL GIRLS CHESS TOURNAMENT 2/21/14 SAVE THE DATE

CHESS FOR KIDS All Levels Welcome!

Call today! (707) 527-6427 www.chessclubforkids.com

p.m. RSVP: thefabulouswomen@gmail. com. Elks Lodge. 2105 S. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma.

20th Annual Goddess Crafts Faire.

Sat. & Sun. 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Suggested donation $5–$13. Sebastopol Community Cultural Center. 390 Morris St., Sebastopol. seb.org.

Winnie the Pooh Christmas Tail.

SONOMA COUNTY’S

favorite pediatricians

•

Same day and after hours appointments

•

Manage your child’s healthcare online; lab results, prescriptions, appointments, and e-mail your doctor with questions 24/7

•

Convenient locations

•

Network of Pediatric subspecialists for complex cases

•

Most health plans welcome

FREE Petaluma’s Lighted Boat Parade. 6 p.m. Petaluma River Turning Basin. visitpetaluma.com.

To find the Pediatrician that’s right for you, call 1-888-699-DOCS (3627) or visit sutterpacific.org

B Mî `ƒ

Join Pooh, Piglet & Eeyore in the Hundred Acre Wood for a celebration of friendship, sharing & caring. Dec. 13 & 14, 20 & 21. 11 a.m. &. 2 p.m. $10. Raven Performing Arts Theater. 115 North St., Healdsburg. raventheater.org.

Too Many Colds & Flu? Explore Naturopathics!

Mention this ad for:

Mention this ad for 50% off for the first 12 months

Free Month

Select sizes while supplies last 20% off packing and moving Supplies.

Call for details 6001 Commerce Blvd.

Rohnert Park, CA 94928 707-588-8878

EXPRESSWAY STORAGE 6001 Commerce Blvd.

Rohnert Park

707-588-8878

34 SonomaFamilyLife

Be Well Individualized Natural Solutions Colds & Flu • Food Allergies Well Baby/Child Care • Ear Infections

707-996-WELL

710 West Napa St., Suite 1 • Sonoma www.sonomanatmed.com

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Enrolling for Fall 2015 FREE The Mosey Boys: Bluegrass,

Call to schedule a tour

CLIMBING, TRAINING, COMMUNITY

Blues & Folk. 2

p.m. Rohnert Park–Cotati Regional Library. 6250 Lynne Condé Way, Rohnert Park. sonomalibrary.org.

FREE Build, Make & Create at the Library! Experiment with basic scientific concepts using a variety of tools & materials. Ages 6–12. 1–3 p.m. Petaluma Regional Library.

100 Fairgrounds Dr., Petaluma. sonomalibrary.org.

• Bilingual Toddler thru Elementary • STEM Curriculum • Math Through Architecture • Mommy & Me

FREE Chaskinakuy: Andean Village Music. Music from Ecuador to

Argentina performed on a collection of regional wind, string & percussion instruments. 2 p.m. Windsor Regional Library. 9291 Old Redwood Hwy., Windsor. sonomalibrary.org.

707-763-9222

37th Annual Last 10K & Final 2-Mile

SpringHillMontessori.org

Our Winter Camp Vertical Dec. 22-26, 9am-12pm

Run. 9 a.m. $10–$20. Howarth Park.

630 Summerfield Rd., Santa Rosa. empirerunners.org.

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE This holiday season come get

Annual Christmas Show. Sat.

10 a.m.–6 p.m. Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $6. Marin Center Exhibit Hall. 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. goldengateshows.com.

your climb on at VERTEX!

FREE Children’s Winter Craft Fair & Elves’ Workshop. Join

Tuesday 16 Marin Symphony Holiday Pops Concert. Music from favorite holiday

movies, including Home Alone, Polar Express & A Charlie Brown Christmas, along with holiday classics. 7 p.m.

Adults $35 & up. Ages 6–17 $20 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Everyday that week EXCEPT Christmas Day. Cost is $120/participant.

BEST GIFT EVER!

Marin Indoor Antique Market 29th

West County Girl Scouts for a fun day of crafts, games, food & fun. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Sebastopol Community Church. 1000 Gravenstein Hwy. N., Sebastopol. uccseb.org.

WINTER CAMPS!

Thriving Academics, Creativity, & Well-being • • • •

Traditional Montessori Curriculum Ages 2 - 6 years old Kindergarten Program Summer Program

Developing the Foundations for a Lifetime of Creative Learning 537-8889

2810 Summerfield Road, Santa Rosa bvmontessori.com

December 2014

Discounted group rates for non-profits

707-573-1608

climbvertex.com 3358a Coffey Lane • Santa Rosa SonomaFamilyLife 35

SANTA ROSA CO-OP PRESCHOOL EST. 1951

A Place to Play. A Place to Learn. A Place to Grow.

• Accepting 2–5 Years Old

• Pre K class for academic & social Kindergarten readiness • Positive Discipline: ~ Parenting tools using kind and firm techniques ~ Encouragement with mutual respect To support our families, we provide parenting tools & classes so we work together as team for your children

579-3718

srecschool.org

FRESH, LOCAL,

& FUN!

EVERY WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY WEDNESDAY: 8:30 am to Noon SATURDAY: 8:30 am to 1 pm

& up. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium. 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. marincounty.org.

Thursday 18 Secret Santa Marathon.

Montgomery Village. Hwy. 12 at Farmers Lane, Santa Rosa. 573-3399.

Friday 19 Posada Navideña. Experience &

celebrate the wonderful folk culture of

Petaluma Nit Flix All Natural Non-Toxic Lice Removal Solutions!

50 Mark West Springs Road

Lice Removal Salon Salon or in home options 707-484-2711 7 Fourth Street, Suite 8, Petaluma www.petalumanitflix.com

2 - 5 years Preschool Jr. Kindergarten – Kindergarten 1st through 5th Grade

REGISTRATION FOR 2014-15 NOW OPEN 795-7863

www.crossandcrownschoolrp.org Preschool license #490100475

36 SonomaFamilyLife

Saturday 20 Le Cirque de Bohème. 1920s–style

circus. Magician, contortionist, juggling acrobat, knife-thrower. Dec. 20–22, 26–27. 3 & 5 p.m. Adults $25. Under 15 $15. Cornerstone Sonoma. 23570 Arnold Dr., Sonoma. cornerstonesonoma.com.

Spring Lake Family Nature Walk.

Every third Saturday. One hour hikes.

1 & 3 p.m. Parking $7. Environmental Discovery Center. Howarth Park. 630 Summerfield Rd., Santa Rosa. parks. sonomacounty.ca.gov.

FREE Once Upon a Gingerbread

Wells Fargo Center for the Arts

Cross & Crown Lutheran School

México. Free pre-show arts & crafts at 6 p.m. Show 7 p.m. Adults $10. Kids $5. Wells Fargo Center for the Arts. 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. wellsfargocenterarts.org.

House. Children create houses using graham crackers, frosting & creative accessories. Ages 5–12. 11 a.m.–noon.

Cloverdale Regional Library. 401 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale. sonomalibrary.org.

Put your Affairs in Order • • • • • •

FREE Consultation

Nominate Guardians for Minors Revocable Living Trusts Wills Powers of Attorney Meet at Your Home

Evening & Weekend Appointments Available

707-431-7250

Maria Grace Wilson, Attorney at Law mgracewilson@comcast.net December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

VOENA: Voices of the Season– Wintersong. Children’s voices

representing 35 cultures. 7:30 p.m. $30–$40. Napa Valley Opera House.

1030 Main St., Napa. nvoh.org.

34th Annual Redwood Empire

Menorah Lighting Celebration. Hot latkes, dreidels, gelt, live music, and prizes. Montgomery Village. Hwy. 12 at Farmers Lane, Santa Rosa. 577-0277.

Wednesday 31

Sing-Along Messiah. A benefit for

Happy New Year, Charlie Brown!

the music education programs of the Santa Rosa Symphony League.

7:30 p.m. $20. Jackson Theatre.

4400 Day School Pl., Santa Rosa. sing-along-messiah.org.

Balloon drop at noon. Root beer toasts noon & 3 p.m. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Charles M. Schulz Museum. 2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa. schulzmuseum.org.

Sunday 21 A Spirited Winter Solstice Tea. Sit by

707-546-4069

the fire with Santa. 10:30 a.m.–noon.

Reservations required. Muir’s Tea Room. 330 S. Main St., Sebastopol.

634-6143. muirstearoom.com.

• Non-stressful and fun • Play areas for big and small dogs • Separate cat area

(707) 331-3143 • www.hairofthedogsr.com 2770 Stony Point Road, Ste. E • Santa Rosa

It’s all about the party!

A whole loada fun!

The Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show. Gospel Music Hall of Fame legends perform holiday originals & classics. 8 p.m. $35 & $28. Person Theater. Wells Fargo Center for the Arts. 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. wellsfargocenterarts.org.

Chanukah Festival. The Chabad Jewish Center invites you to a

For Dogs & Cats

Open Tues-Sun

Birthday • Graduation • Family Reunion • Office Event 327 O’Hair Court, Santa Rosa • 575-KIDS

It’s not just

Tired of Cleaning?

Residential & Commercial Cleaning

Bill’s Cleaning Service Serving Santa Rosa (707) 321-7400

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Gymnastics...

It’s confidence for a lifetime!

• Tumblebug Program for preschool aged children • Boys & Girls Classes Recreation 6–12 • Tumbling & Tramp Classes

707-763-5010

www.regymnastics.com

reg

redwood empire gymnastics

December 2014

SonomaFamilyLife 37

Classified Marketplace Health

Shopping

Need help with health insurance?

n u FBlast!

Weekend

SonomaFamilyLife.com

Exclusively Organic only at

INSURANCE AGENCY

Your small business-individual and Medicare health insurance expert.

www.sonomainsonline.com California Dep of Insurance Lic# 0C42042

Endermologie Massage Proven Effective for

Scar Tissue and More Free Evaluation & Sample Massage

MAKE THE MAGIC HAPPEN

Endermologie

Call 206-5613

5212 Old Redwood Hwy, Santa Rosa www.bodytec-massage.com

Come pick up some great deals from top designers!

Need Relief From

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD THRIFT STORE

We can help

IN THE G&G SHOPPING CENTER

Headaches?

Holiday Gift Certificates!

Abundance Massage “Make peace with your body”

Jena Vincent, CMT AP For info or appt: 849-2217 Check out our online directories

NO INSURANCE, NO PROBLEM! Trusted, Comfortable & Caring Dentistry

Revolutionary new tools and methods to treat chronic headaches and TMJ.

M A R K E T P L ACE A C ATHOLICCHARITIES C HARITIES S OCIAL E NTERPRISE A CATHOLIC SOCIAL ENTERPRISE

1001 W. College Ave. Santa Rosa www.restylemarketplace.com (707) 284-1700

38 SonomaFamilyLife

Give thanks and Give Peace

Cellulite Reduction 20% OFF And Fibromyalgia

RESTYLE

312 D Street, Santa Rosa

P R E S E N T S…

NORMAN SHEEHAN

MARY AGATHA AGATHA FURTH’S FURTH’S MARY

707.544.2766

KANDU BDY WRK STUDIOS

Call Norm at 707-544-NORM (6676) Toll Free 866-544-NORM

Sign up online for our weekly enews featuring the best family friendly weekend events.

@

Health

Like Us On Facebook

Wine Country Headache Center (707) 433-8929 1530 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg winecountryheadachecenter.com

Before and After School Appointments!

WE ACCEPT ALL INSURANCES!

EZ SMILE DENTAL

575-9595 • ezsmilefamily.com 4757 Hoen Avenue · Santa Rosa

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Sebastopol Ratzlaff Ranch

Apple-A-Day Fresh Natural Apple Juice

Voted BEST Cider by SF-Gate’s, Taster’s Choice Hall of Fame Available at: Andy’s Produce in Sebastopol, Pacific Markets in Sebastopol & Santa Rosa, Speers Market in Forestville, Bill’s Farm Basket in Sebastopol, Bohemian Market in Occidental, Glen Ellen Village Market in Glen Ellen, Olivers Market in Santa Rosa & Rohnert Park, Petaluma Market in Petaluma, Sonoma Market in Sonoma, Santa Rosa Community Market in Santa Rosa, Sebastopol Community Market in Sebastopol, Sheltons Natural in Healdsburg, Whole Foods Markets in Sebastopol, Santa Rosa, Sonoma & Petaluma.

Also at Ratzlaff Ranch, 13128 Occidental Rd. Sebastopol • Hours: Mon.–Fri. 8am–5pm • Closed Sat. • Sun. 9am–5pm

Classified Marketplace Children’s Clothing

Counseling

Parties

Lessons Build Courage

Reverie baby

Foster Self-Esteem

Children’s Apparel & Gifts

H a

olidays f rom Reverie

ba

by!

p

H py

Teaching the art of the sword Let Us Host Your Next Birthday Party!

Santa Rosa

433-8102

egfencing.com

Newborn to Size 5 Boy & Girl Quality, Unique Apparel & Gifts • Christening Crib Bedding • Baby Registry Organic Items • Made in the USA items

HAVING A PARTY OR EVENT? Liven it up!

Visit us at our New, Expanded location in Montgomery Village @ 2417 Magowan Dr., Santa Rosa

(707) 544-4630 • reveriebaby.com

Supportive Counseling. Helping children and families with anger, stress, depression and healing from physical, emotional and sexual abuse. Counseling for parents. Kathleen Dunham, MFT. 829-7051. Se Habla Espanol.

with balloon artists Katie & Luke

Katie's Balloons

Gain Strength

Make Friends

Back to School

RIDING LESSONS FOR ALL AGES

Wingsmarkweststables.com After School Martial Arts (707)&538-2000 Program

Wings (707) 544-2302 www.wingsmap.org

AFTER-SCHOOL

MARTIAL ARTS PROGRAM

SUPPORTS ACADEMICS WITH FUN

707-539-1818 ktsballoons@gmail.com

Real Estate

A n n e B a ke r R E A L T O R

Helping my neighbors because I care.

Is Your Child Defiant, Stubborn, or Aggressive?

It doesn’t have to be that way.

We know how difficult and frustrating it can be when everything you have tried has not worked. Through a highly effective program for children 3-6 years old, we can help you to successfully manage these behaviors. Start to see results in as little as 6 sessions.

Call today for a free consultation 707-545-4600 www.srcbt.org

“I NEVER KNEW WE COULD HAVE SUCH FUN WITH OUR CHILD AGAIN!”

(707) 245-6090 . 01165299 annebaker.net

40 SonomaFamilyLife

PARTY LIKE A ROCK STAR AT Pizza, Games, & Great Rock Star Souvenirs

586-1949

(707) 544-2302

www.wingsmap.org

601 Rohnert Park Expy W, Rohnert Park www.chuckecheese.com

NobodyLikesLice.com In-Home Lice Treatment

Gentle, Natural Removal Serving Sonoma and N. Marin

707 536-1966

613 College Avenue, Santa Rosa

M-F from after school until 6pm • We Pick Up! Free Shuttle from School to our Studio • Daily Karate Classes & Homework time • Light Meal Provided • Child Centered Curriculum

Like Us On Facebook

call or text

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Lessons

Schools

Childcare/Preschools

Your Child can Thrive!

Family Music Classes

...for birth to age 7, designed to educate & delight your child!

Santa Rosa, Windsor & Healdsburg

707-544-5747

www.santarosamusictogether.com

Online learning ignites the minds of children like yours

Program of First United Methodist Church Year-round • Play based Ages 2 - 5 (Pre-Kindergarten) Excellent Teacher-Child ratios Open 7am-6pm

GROW.LEARN.THRIVE SANTA ROSA 2590 PINER RD.

preschool@fumcsantarosa.org www.fumcsantarosa.org/preschool License#490110699

Preschool & Child Care Center

Lessons

YMCA PRESCHOOL

Diane: 546-7012

FUMC

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

Childcare/Preschools

Part Time /Full Time Care Flexible Plans Available Serving 2-5 year olds

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES:

Health & Nutrition, Motor Skills, Interpersonal Relationships, Self Confidence, and Cognitive & Academic Skills.

PRICING & REGISTRAION:

Tutors

YMCA Program Office 707.544.1829

Riding Lessons for Children

Like Us On Facebook FIRST LESSON

AFTER SCHOOL WITH PONIES! •Self-Esteem •Responsibility •FUN!

European Pony School

546-7669

Start the School Year Off Right!

707-484-1188

Our high quality tutors can help with:

europeanponyschool.com

DO YOU LOVE TO

Sing?

Santa Rosa Children’s Chorus Providing quality music education and choral training since 1984!

Academic Subjects • Test Prep Foreign Languages Study Skills • ESL

Don’t wait until your child falls behind

Montessori Education Inspires ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Joy of Learning Order & Detail Concentration Grace & Courtesy

2427 Professional Dr. • Santa Rosa Near Steele Lane & Hwy 101

707-528-0889•www.rhioscasa.com

(707) 585-2584

sonomacountytutors.com

EXPERIENCED CERTIFIED

TUTOR

Will provide home tutoring in phonic for reading improvement & comprehension Grades 1-8

Boys & Girls age 7-12 may join

Santa Rosa Call Kati

527-8813 srchildrenschorus.com

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Montessori School

Preschool•Kindergarten Parent-Toddler Class Ages 18 months to 6-years

FREE!

www.jessesaldana.com 5425 Stony Point Road • Santa Rosa

Casa dei Bam io’s Since 1981 b

ini

Rh

The Y is a non-profit community based organization.

Financial Assistance is available.

528-7789 December 2014

The Bridge School. Located in Central Santa Rosa, 1625 Franklin Ave. Year-round full/half–day. Rich nurturing environment.

Center based program for ages 3–5 with separate 2’s program. Caring, qualified teachers. Julie & Andrew Day; owners.

Lic.#493005697. 575-7959.

Playtime Daycare/Preschool Join our loving family. Spacious playroom, large yard, meals provided. CPR & first aid certified.

M-F. Infants & up. Call Wendy 539-7524. Lic. #04746.

SonomaFamilyLife 41

Humor Break

Assembly Not Required

Why Barbies Are Better than Bikes

By Bull Garlington

S

ome of us, over the course of our adult lives, come to a quiet, disheartening conclusion about our relationship with simple tools.

I myself can barely use a can opener.

Certainly not a Philips screwdriver, and keep me away from socket wrenches or somebody loses an eye. Christmas terrifies me because of bikes and dollhouses. I once put together a Barbie mansion with such an astonishing lack of skill I got a foreclosure letter.

Long ago I made a pact to only buy toys already assembled. Dinosaur Hot Wheels with a working volcano jump? Not happening. Barbies? They are God’s gift to overthumbed dads. I bought my daughter enough Barbies to repopulate the Earth.

All I had to do was wrap them.

A note to Mattel: The trapezoidal assemblage you’ve packaged your dolls in is not wrappable. Please use a rectangle or a cube. Please don’t use curved edges and, whatever you do, don’t turn a perfectly usable square into some kind of sloped edifice.

That’s just mean.

42 SonomaFamilyLife

I know why you do it. It’s to protect the environment. You want to go green? Make the box a shape a man can wrap. I have to use 17 rolls of paper to get just one of those things sealed. You know how they say an acre of trees is lost every minute to deforestation?

Around Christmas, that’s all because of me.

I tried shrink-wrapping our presents, but I set one on fire and the wife

I once put together a Barbie mansion with such an astonishing lack of skill I got a foreclosure letter. made me quit. My only hope was the last-resort wrap, the Tootsie Roll twist, where I just curl a sheet of paper around the poor doll and twist like I’m losing tug-o-war then tape the ends liberally. By liberally, I mean I make them bulletproof.

All my presents end up like this, little table-top piñatas with my kids

pounding and hitting them, and then attacking them with knives to get to the good stuff inside, which is never what they wanted.

One year I got my son a set of Lego race cars. When he’d finally gotten the wrapping paper off (screw driver, blow torch), he’d torn one corner and sliced through the plastic. He said, “Really?

I’m 11.” My daughter kissed me on the cheek, patted me on the head, and said “Nice try.”

I finally tried planning ahead. I had a nice flat gift. I laid the paper out on the table, got a yardstick, measured, flattened, pleated, folded, taped, folded again, taped again, and finally produced a beautiful, perfectly wrapped present.

I turned to look for a bow and saw the actual toy sitting on the counter by the coffee machine. I picked up the gorgeous gift I’d just spent an hour working on; it fell limp across my hand.

I’d just wrapped nothing.

I put it under the tree anyway.

Bull Garlington is the author of Death by Children, the ForeWord Review’s Humor 2013 Book of the Year.

December 2014 www.sonomafamilylife.com

give gifts

enjoy play

give

Extended Holiday Shopping Hours Monday - Saturday 9am - 9 pm • Sunday 9am to 6pm Christmas Eve • 9am to 5pm Christmas Day • Closed Friday, December 26 • 9am to 6pm

Santa and Mrs. Claus

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in their Photo Studio in Village Terrace every weekend from 11am to 3pm.

gifts

and Mrs. Claus, we will be offering free glitter tattoos to children of all ages. Plus, meet the Winter Queen of the Fairies who will be strolling throughout the Village and granting holiday wishes.

Light Up A Life

Thursday, December 4 • 5pm to 6:30pm at Santa’s Village in Village Terrace.

Please join us for the Heartland Hospice Tree Lighting Light up lives, cherish memories and celebrate our communtiy.

The Secret Santa Marathon

give

Thursday, December 18 • in Village Court While wrapping up your holiday shopping and enjoying the strolling need. For more information about Secret Santa, call 573.3399

gifts

Chanukah Festival

enjoy

Sunday, December 21 • 4 pm in Village Court The Chabad Jewish Center invites you to Celebrate Chanukah.

Join us for a Menorah Lighting Celebration.

Hot Latkes, Live Music, Dreidels, Gelt, Prizes and More.

For information, call 577-0277

play

A PREMIER HOLIDAY SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

give

gifts

EXTENDED HOLIDAY SHOPPING HOURS MON-SAT 9 AM-9 PM SUN 9 AM-6 PM COMPLIMENTARY PARKING HIGHWAY 12 AT FARMERS LANE IN SANTA ROSA WWW.MVSHOPS.COM

Happy Holidays

This is a spectacular time of year when people are feeling kind and generous. Old Saint Nicholas set the precedent for generosity a very long time ago, and people have taken his message and flown with it. Personal gifts to people we care about, and financial gifts to organizations who do good work, are in abundance.

At Fine Tree Care, we encourage you to give to organizations that keep Sonoma County strong and healthy…from environmental groups who protect our forests and watersheds, to organizations that feed people and take care of families in need…they all need our support.

Sonoma County residents are family, and this beautiful land is our home.

Sonoma County’s Best-Loved Tree Service since 1999

(707) 874-2018 Visit our web site for more information and testimonials from satisfied clients.

www.SonomaTree.com

Licensed, Bonded & Insured

At Fine Tree Care, nurturing our home and family is at the top of our priority list. Our crews are trained to respect laws designed to protect watersheds, rivers, lakes and land while serving the needs of our clients.

Winter is the perfect time of year to evaluate the trees on your property when branches, power lines & potential hazards are clearly visible. Give us a call to schedule a visit, and remember, we offer a rainy weather discount for pre-scheduling winter work.

CCL #947598, LTO #A10086, Certified Arborists Reports, Workers Comp., General Liability, Commercial Auto, & Third Party Liability Insurance