December 2020 Momaha magazine

momaha.com

VOLUME 11 · ISSUE 12 DECEMBER

2020

A LITTLE SOMETHING Tags as special as the gift

STAYING CONNECTED Tips for togetherness when the pandemic keeps us apart

Childhood illness happens even during COVID-19.

Now at four Omaha locations Pacific Street Clinic 139th & Pacific Street (Every day and holidays)

72nd Street Clinic 7205 West Center Road Suite 104 (Monday-Thursday)

Harrison Street Clinic

Boys Town Same Day Pediatrics is here 7 days a week – every evening, weekend and holiday!

We’re a pediatric clinic so co-pays are the same as an office visit, not an urgent care or emergency room visit.

531-355-SICK(7425)

6715 South 180th Street (Monday-Thursday)

Downtown Clinic 555 North 30th Street (Sunday only)

Save our number to your phone so when you need us, we’ll be right there!

WINTER BREAK CAMP DECEMBER 16-18

12 9 AGES

8:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M.

!

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JOIN US IN

This holiday season, we invite you to step into our living room, as the floral display hall is transformed into a comfy, cozy space that is full of joy, cheer, and of course, plants. Enjoy the majestic 20-foot-tall poinsettia tree, a cactus cat, succulent stockings, and thousands of vibrant poinsettias. Take in the warmth of the lush conservatory and enjoy the sights and sounds of model garden trains, or cozy up by the fire and roast a marshmallow in the Family Chill Zone. No matter your age, the holiday season at Lauritzen Gardens is sure to be Merry & Bright!

CLOSED

21 st

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THANKSGIVING | CHRISTMAS | NEW YEAR’S DAY

To reserve your timed tickets, visit:

/TICKETS

100 BANCROFT STREET, OMAHA

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December 2020

KILEY CRUSE

CONTENTS

REAL MOMS + ADVICE

SEASONAL

5 Editor’s Column 7 On Our Radar 10 Momaha Bookshelf 24 Be Well

12 Gift Tags 3 Ways 18 Peppermint Oreo Bark 20 Fingerprint Crafts 27 Non-toy Holiday Gift Ideas 28 Gingerbread Snowflake Tree 30 Stocking Name Tags 31 Holiday Movie Marathon 32 Citrus Garland

SPONSORED FEATURES 8 Marian High School 22 YMCA of Greater Omaha

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Donate by Nov. 30 for holiday delivery!

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December 2020

MOMAHA.COM EDITOR ASHLEE COFFEY Wife to Kevin and mom to Sam and Elliott.

Follow her on Twitter: @AshleeCoffeyOWH

KEEPING THINGS FESTIVE & BRIGHT

D

ecember has always been a top five month for me. While I don’t like winter (or snow), I do love the “togetherness” and holiday cheer that permeates the last month of the year.

I love setting up the Christmas decorations with my kids. I love the squeals of joy when they see a decoration they love that’s been tucked away since last year. December’s festive and bright mood makes me happy during an otherwise tough time of year when there’s less sunlight and time outdoors.

Another reason for loving December is that

my oldest son, Sam, was born 12 days before Christmas. This year, however, we won’t have a traditional birthday party for him. Instead, family will drop off gifts, and we’ll have a Zoom party, where we’ll sing happy birthday, Sam will blow out his candles, and family can watch him open gifts.

Thankfully, Sam was fine when I told him this news. I promised him that we’ll have a big party for him (and the rest of us) once we’re beyond this really odd pandemic year.

Meantime, happy holidays and stay healthy everyone!

GET SOCIAL FACEBOOK /momahacom

TWITTER @momaha_owh PINTEREST /momahaowh INSTAGRAM /momaha_owh

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Indoor Swimming Lessons Year Round!

A great gift and great fun!

Swim Lessons register noW for once-A-Week sWiM lessons

Ages 6 Mos. & older.

Morning, Afternoon, evening & sAt. Morning

momaha where moms connect

VOLUME 11 . ISSUE 12 . DECEMBER 2020 editor in chief CHRIS CHRISTEN chris.christen@owh.com 402-444-1094

creative director + designer KILEY CRUSE cruse@owh.com 402-444-1375

assistant editor MARJIE DUCEY marjie.ducey@owh.com 402-444-1034

momaha.com editor ASHLEE COFFEY ashlee.coffey@owh.com 402-444-1075

content contributors M O L LY C AVA N A U G H HEIDI HOFFMAN

cover photo KILEY CRUSE

custom publishing sales coordinator N I C K C AVA L L A R O nick.cavallaro@owh.com 402-444-1202

402-932-2030 LittleWavesFamilySwimSchool.com 6

December 2020

Momaha Magazine is a monthly publication of the Omaha World-Herald, 1314 Douglas St., Suite 700, Omaha, NE 68102.

Momaha is a registered trademark, and all content is copyright 2020 by the Omaha World-Herald. All rights reserved. The opinions and perspectives published herein are those of the authors and should not be construed as those of Momaha Magazine.

ON OUR RADAR MARJIE DUCEY

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THINGS TO TRY THIS MONTH

I’VE GOT MY OWN

MOMENT OF BLISS Moonlight Reflections candles from The Spa Girl Life are lovely and magical, our reviewer said. The White Howlite smelled “amazing.” The candles are soy, burn evenly and last a long time. She loved the meditation card with the meaning of the candle, feelings the scent may envoke, a mantra to focus on and space for journaling your thoughts after you meditate. Two moonstones were an added bonus. $39.95, thespagirllife.com

The Bagpodz system keeps reusable bags neat and tidy in your vehicle and takes the guesswork out of how many bags to take into a store. Simply grab the pouch and pull out what you need at the checkout.

Our reviewer loved the bright colors and ease of care. Her only wish: an upsized bag.

Although perfect for a Target run, they’re a bit small for groceries. $24.95 for 5 bags and $34.95 for 10, bagpodz.com

NEBRASKA NICE

NATURAL HEALING

These customizable tea towels from Honey + Hank are adorable and perfect for anyone who is proud to be from Nebraska (or any other state). Our reviewer loved that they’re 100% cotton, too. If you have a friend with a pampered pooch, they also come with dog designs. $20, honeyandhank.com

After a long day of putting up holiday lights, it was so nice to try the Happy Labs muscle and joint salve. One particular spot was affecting how our reviewer slept, and the salve definitely eased the pain. Each 1.7-ounce jar contains 900 mg of CBD (no THC, only pure Cannabidiol isolate) as well as beneficial oils such as coconut, jojoba seed, lavender, rosehip and neem to heal the skin.

The Happy Labs products are unique because each hemp plant is traced from seed to shelf. $95, thehappylabs.com

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SPONSORED FEATURE MARIAN HIGH SCHOOL

Inside a Blue Ribbon school Marian’s award-winning academics help students to thrive

M

arian is a recipient of the U.S. Department of Education 2020 National Blue Ribbon Schools Award. The recognition is based on a school’s overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.

Marian has been identified as an Exemplary High Performing School, which means that the achievement of the students in the most recent year tested placed Marian in the top 15% in the nation in reading and mathematics.

The coveted National Blue Ribbon Schools award affirms the hard work of educators, families and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content.

As a 2020 National Blue Ribbon Schools award winner, Marian is one of: • 367 schools from across the country • 50 nonpublic schools • 6 schools in Nebraska • 4 schools in Omaha This marks the third time Marian has been recognized – the most of any school in Nebraska.

So what is the formula for Marian’s Blue Ribbon success? Marian has created a comfortable, family atmosphere where every girl can thrive. It is a safe place for a girl to be herself and discover who she is.

Academics first. First and foremost, Marian is academically challenging. Marian offers a comprehensive college prep curriculum that includes 45 honors courses, 15 advanced placement courses and 16 dual enrollment courses with two universities. A professional, caring faculty know how to teach young women. As a result, 100% of graduates continue their education, and in the past three years, 70% of the graduates earned merit-based scholarships averaging $40,000 each.

Optimal size. As Nebraska’s only Class A girls’ high school, Marian provides the opportunities of a large high school in a smaller school setting. With an average enrollment of 700, Marian has what researchers identify as an optimum enrollment size (600-900 students), providing stronger student achievement, higher

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December 2020

MARIAN HIGH SCHOOL

With more than 50 clubs and activities and 23 athletic teams in 10 Class A statesanctioned sports, a Marian girl has endless opportunities to develop her leadership potential, become part of a group, and discover her strengths.

participation among students and a richer curriculum.

Something for everyone. With more than 50 clubs and activities and 23 athletic teams in 10 Class A state-sanctioned sports, a Marian girl has endless opportunities to develop her leadership potential, become part of a group, and discover her strengths.

Facilities for every interest. A 40-acre, beautifully landscaped campus features a 20,000-square-foot performing arts center, a dedicated academic center, STEM, chemistry and physics labs, art studios and kilns, regulation soccer and softball fields, a practice soccer field, tennis courts and a track.

Leadership development opportunities.

An all-girls environment supports diverse interests without the social pressures found in a coed environment. At Marian, formal and informal leadership opportunities exist through clubs, student government, athletics, fine arts and campus ministry.

Students are encouraged to take the lead and develop new programs. In recent years, Marian students founded Girls 4 Girls, Young Medicine, Yoga and Step clubs.

OPEN HOUSE COMING SOON

See for yourself what it’s like to attend a National Blue Ribbon School. Open House is an opportunity to explore our campus, gather tuition assistance and scholarship information and meet our students and faculty.

Eighth-grade girls and their families are invited Sunday, Nov. 22, from noon to 2:30 p.m. Walkins are welcome, but registration is preferred to secure a time slot for a tour. To register visit bit.ly/ MarianOpenHouse2020.

Can’t attend Open House? Take a virtual tour at marianhighschool.net/virtualtour or schedule a personal tour. For more information, contact Molly Adams Woodman, director of admissions, or visit www.marianhighschool.net.

Support for families in Nebraska formed through adoption and guardianship.

888.667.2399 RightTurnNE.org A collaboration between Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska and Nebraska Children’s Home Society.

JOIN US FOR MARIAN’S ANNUAL

OPEN HOUSE!

Sunday, November 22, 2020 Noon - 2:30 p.m.

Eighth-graders and their families Registration preferred at bit.ly/MarianOpenHouse2020

7400 MILITARY AVENUE OMAHA, NE 68134 MARIANHIGHSCHOOL.NET

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MOMAHA BOOKSHELF ASHLEE COFFEY

CELEBRATE THE SEASON December marks the start of winter, and what better way to celebrate the new season than with a good book? Here are some options to enjoy with your kids as you curl up on the couch and watch the snow fall.

THE SNOWY DAY

By Ezra Jack Keats It’s a classic picture book that shows Peter doing every kid’s favorite snowday activities: making snow angels, throwing snowballs and building a snowman.

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December 2020

BUNNY SLOPES

By Claudia Rueda Bunny wants to go skiing. But he needs help. In this interactive story, kids can help Bunny down the slope by tilting and manipulating the book.

STELLA, QUEEN OF THE SNOW

By Marie-Louise Gay Stella and her little brother, Sam, discover the world transformed by a heavy snowstorm, and the siblings delight in the winter wonderland. And as usual, Stella has answers for all of Sam’s questions about winter such as “Where do snowmen sleep?” “Do snow angels sing?”

MICE SKATING

By Annie Silvestro Mice usually tunnel underground, staying warm away from winter’s reach. But Lucy the mouse dreams of all the winter fun she could be having outdoors.

GOODBYE AUTUMN, HELLO WINTER

By Kenard Pak Siblings go for a walk, and as they stroll, they notice signs of the changing season.

Wherever School is, We’re Here for You Mathnasium’s program is effective in reversing the widespread math learning loss children of all grade levels experience due to the pandemic. With live, face-to-face instruction either online or in our center, we’ll catch them up . and keep their math skills strong for this year and beyond.

Call us today for $50 OFF your child’s assessment.

Mathnasium Papillion (844) 984-MATH (6284) – Mathnasium.com/Papillion 304 Olson Drive, Ste. 113, Papillion, NE 68046

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TEXT, STYLING + PHOTOGRAPHY Kiley Cruse

DRESS UP YOUR HOLIDAY GIFTS Handmade touches that say, ‘You’re special’

A

gift tag and an ornament in one.

How convenient!

CLAY HOLIDAY GIFT TAGS • Model Magic, polymer clay or air-dry clay • Rolling pin • Cutting sheet or waxed paper • Cookie cutters • Letter or holiday rubber stamps • Straw

1. On a cutting sheet or waxed paper, roll out your clay to about 3/16-inch thick. Air-dry clay will be much stickier than Model Magic clay.

2. Cut out shapes from the clay using cookie cutters or a small biscuit cutter.

3. Using a straw, punch a hole at the top of the clay to string a ribbon through once dry.

4. Gently press stamps into the clay. Spell out “to” and “from,” use initials or holiday shapes.

5. Allow clay to dry according to package directions.

6. Thread ribbon through the hole and attach to your package.

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MADE WITH LOVE TEXT, STYLING + PHOTOGRAPHY Kiley Cruse

T

hese tags are so simple, so easy that even the most DIY-challenged can have fun. Pull out your scrapbooking stash and start creating!

SCRAP PAPER GIFT TAGS • • • • • • • • •

Solid colored craft paper Patterned craft paper Scissors Paper cutter Hole punch Ribbon Foam adhesive dots Shape paper punches, optional Brown marker or a pen

1. Using a paper cutter, trim solid colored craft paper into rectangles. (Ours are 2-by-3¼ inches.)

2. Snip the corners off the short sides of the rectangle. Use hole punch to make a hole at top center of the tag.

3. Cut out triangles from patterned paper. (Ours are 1½-by-2 inches tall.)

4. Use foam adhesive dots to attach triangles (trees) to the tag.

5. Decorate further with shape punches. We used a star for the top of the tree and a heart.

Another idea is to tie tiny bows to the tree.

6. Using marker, draw a trunk on the tree.

Optionally, use a pen to write a holiday-inspired word in place of the trunk. We used “merry.”

7. String a ribbon through the punched hole.

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December 2020

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RUDOLPH GIFT TAGS • • • • • •

Brown craft or construction paper Googly eyes Red pom poms Glue dots Brown puffy paint or marker Scissors

1. Cut brown paper into rectangles about 3½-by-4 inches.

2. With the paper set so the longer side is up and down, use glue dots to attach googly eyes in about the middle of the paper.

3. Using a glue dots, attach a red

pom pom nose below the eyes.

4. Draw antlers with puffy paint (or marker). Let dry.

5. Optional: Use a small paper punch to create a hole for threading ribbon or twine for hanging.

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December 2020

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WWW.GETOUTPASS.COM ENJOY THESE & MANY MORE! Over $3,000 in FREE admissions!

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TEXT, STYLING + PHOTOGRAPHY Kiley Cruse

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December 2020

CANDY CRUSH

©MUPPETS/ DISNEY.

No-bake treat is easy to love, especially at Christmas

B

ark is one of those treats I seem to only make around the holidays. This combination of peppermint and chocolate is perfect for Christmas. And the great thing about bark recipes is that they are easily adaptable. Want a stronger peppermint flavor? Simply add more crushed candy cane.

PEPPERMINT OREO BARK • • • • • • •

1 pound vanilla candy melts or almond bark 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon butter, melted 15 Oreos, crushed 4 tablespoons crushed candy cane Parchment paper Pink or red gel food coloring, optional

PLAN YOUR VISIT!

Explore Jim Henson’s groundbreaking work and impact on popular culture in this comprehensive exhibit.

AN EXHIBITION

ORGANIZED BY

FOR FAQS & TICKET RESERVATIONS »

DURHAMMUSEUM.ORG

1. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

2. Put the vanilla candy melts or almond bark in a pot and melt on low heat. Stir the entire time until melted.

(Note: You do not need to use a double boiler for this recipe, but you can. The benefit is that the mixture won’t burn as it could in a pot. To make your own double boiler, find a glass or metal bowl that fits over the top of a pot without falling inside. Add 2-3 inches water to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and place the bowl on top. Add the ingredients to the bowl as directed in the recipe.)

3. Add oil and butter to chocolate and stir well. If using food coloring, add and stir well.

4. Add in about 2/3 of the crushed Oreos and ½ of the crushed candy canes and mix well.

5. Pour onto prepared cookie sheet. Spread to desired thickness. Sprinkle reserved Oreos and crushed candy cane on top.

6. Refrigerate for at least a half-hour. Break into pieces and enjoy.

Storage: Since there aren’t any ingredients that perish quickly, you can store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for a week. If you want it to last longer, store it in the refrigerator.

Adapted from lilluna.com

28210 West Park Highway Ashland, NE 68003

www.SACMuseum.org

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LEAVE YOUR IMPRINT ON THE HOLIDAYS TEXT, STYLING + PHOTOGRAPHY Kiley Cruse

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Original art Santa’s elves are gonna be jealous

L

et your kids help with the holiday cards this year. They will be excited to see their fingerprints morph into Santa’s sleigh and reindeer.

SANTA FINGERPRINT CARD • • • • • • •

Plain note card Brown paint Red paint Thin black marker Thin brown marker Red marker or crayon Flesh colored marker or crayon

1. Dip finger into red paint. Make two overlapping fingerprints parallel to the bottom of the card about an inch from the bottom — this creates the base of the sled.

Add one more red fingerprint touching the left side of the base at a more vertical angle.

This creates the back of the sled.

2. Wash red paint from finger.

3. Dip finger into brown paint. Two prints will make one reindeer. The first print is horizontal, creating the body of the reindeer. The second touches the right side of the body at a more vertical angle to create the head.

4. Repeat step 3 for additional reindeer.

5. Let dry completely.

6. Use thin black marker to draw sled runner, reindeer eyes and noses, and reins attaching the sled and reindeer. Also, draw reindeer antlers and two squiggles above the sled to form Santa’s beard.

7. Use flesh-colored crayon or marker to draw a circle above the beard.

8. Use red marker or crayon to draw Santa’s hat and rosy nose.

9. Use black marker to draw Santa’s eyes and mouth.

10. Use brown marker to draw reindeer legs, ears and tail.

Uniquely yours Each ornament is special, just like the fingerprint behind it

C

reate a simple keepsake ornament with a little paint and your kids’ fingerprints.

The example we saw used a white glass ornament, but for safety with small hands, we painted a paper mâché ball white.

FINGERPRINT ORNAMENT • Plain round ornament (plastic, ceramic or paper mâché) • Paint in bright colors • Black marker

1. If using paper mâché ornament, paint white and let dry.

2. Have your child dip a finger in bright colored paint and “stamp” their fingerprint around the bulb.

(Depending on your child’s age, a little guidance may be necessary.)

3. Let paint dry.

4. Use black marker to draw a tiny square at the top of each fingerprint to create the look of a holiday light bulb.

5. Connect all of the lights with a black line. Get creative with a few loops.

6. Optional: Add the year and/or child’s name with the marker. Can’t find a round ornament? Look for other shapes like the Christmas tree above.

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YMCA OF GREATER OMAHA

SPONSORED FEATURE YMCA OF GREATER OMAHA

Healthy holidays ahead The Y offers indoor activities, programs for the whole family

A

s we prepare to enjoy the festive and indulgent holiday season, and the inevitable subsequent New Year’s resolutions, why not get a jump on it and stay ahead of the scale?

Just because we’re bundling up, doesn’t mean we need to slow down.

In fact, the holidays are the perfect time to start or continue a health and wellness exercise program. The YMCA of Greater Omaha offers plenty of indoor activities and programs for all ages at 10 convenient locations across the metro.

Explore all there is to do at your local Y by exploring the new and improved website at www.metroymca.org. Here are a few suggestions.

TAKE A LAP

It’s always warm in the indoor pool, but somehow it feels even warmer in the winter months. From open swim to aquacise to swim safety instruction and more, the pools at the Y are a great place to enjoy some winter play.

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December 2020

JOIN THE GROUP

The Y offers an impressive and robust calendar of group exercise classes, from low-impact cardio for active older adults, to yoga and total body conditioning and more. Enjoy the camaraderie of working out with fellow members, in a safe, clean and responsible environment.

PEDAL POWER

The Ys offer spin studios with great bikes, be it a casual pedal on your own, or a cycling class with instructors to improve your overall cardio conditioning.

SHOOT SOME HOOPS

The gyms at the Y have produced some amazing people, talents and results. Shoot some hoops and get a run in, all in a controlled environment while the temperatures dip outside.

GET A KID IN THE GAME

Keep an eye on registration dates

for Winter Youth Sports, including the popular basketball programs across the city. Spring serves up soccer, flag football and volleyball, so the kiddos can play all year round.

SUPPORT THE CAUSE

During the season of giving, please consider supporting your local Y with a donation, or by volunteering for programs serving those less fortunate.

The YMCA strives to strengthen the foundation of community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, and it’s your support – through memberships, donations and volunteering – that helps the Y accomplish so much good for all community members.

When you join the Y, you’re joining so much more than just a gym. Visit www. metroymca.org to learn more about joining and supporting the Y, and all the good that comes with it.

Recommended Reads from OPL Staff

“Dasher”

by Matt Tavares

“Field Trip to the Ocean Deep”

by John Hare

“Saturday”

by Oge Mora

“InvestiGators”

by John Green

“Wayside School Beneath the Cloud of Doom”

by Louis Sachar

“Kate the Chemist: The Big Book of Experiments” by Dr. Kate Biberdorf

“Prairie Lotus”

by Linda Sue Park

GIVE YOUR FAMILY THE GIFT OF HEALTH

Teen Te en

“Circle! Sphere!”

by Grace Lin

Pre-K P Pre re

“How to Potty Train a Dinosaur”

by Alycia Pace

Elementary Elem lement lemen lem en ry ry

Check out these and more at omahalibrary.org!

“Alamo All-Stars: Bigger & Badder Edition”

by Nathan Hale

“A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder”

by Holly Jackson

“Frankly in Love”

by David Yoon

“Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You” by Jason Reynolds & Ibram X. Kendi

Join us online or at any of our 10 metro Omaha locations!

Join the YMCA of Greater Omaha, and you’re getting so much more than a gym.

We dedicate ourselves to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Stay connected, get healthier, and have fun with your family by joining our YMCA family today!

>>> Visit our NEW website • metroymca.org 23

BE WELL MARJIE DUCEY

ADOBESTOCK

Staying connected How will you celebrate the holidays this year? Let your senses guide your playbook.

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December 2020

C

an you name your five senses?

They’re important to know because seeing, touching, tasting, smelling and hearing could be the tools you need to get through the winter holidays without your loved ones.

Because of the coronavirus pandemic, family gatherings indoors aren’t a good idea, doctors say.

So, people need to be creative and engage their senses with family and friends in a new way, says Reo Newring, a clinical psychologist at Children’s Hospital & Medical Center.

“You may not be able to hug the people you Reo Newring love, or cuddle with them or see their faces with your own eyes, but there are many ways to bring people closer,’’ she says.

BE WELL MARJIE DUCEY

For vision, try decorating, looking at pictures and video chatting with loved ones.

For hearing, play music that you associate with the season. If you want to share, many music apps have that feature (for instance, you can make and share a playlist on Spotify).

For taste, plan a menu of foods that you love.

For smell, light scented candles, decorate your home with flowers, make a potpourri or bake your favorite cookies.

Sharing all those things will help you stay connected, the first priority for everyone in keeping mentally healthy.

“Holidays are usually about family, friends and loved ones, traditions and celebrating,’’ Newring said. “It is more important this year than ever before to put in the effort and reach out to people.’’

If you can’t be with people in person, call them or use a video chat program or app (Skype, Zoom, FaceTime, etc.).

Do things at the same time to feel more connected, such as baking or doing crafts over the phone or computer.

“For example, my mother will bake gingersnaps at 8 a.m. in Washington state; I will bake at 10 a.m. here in Omaha, and we can FaceTime while we do it so she can interact with my kids,’’ Newring said.

This is also the year to remember the past: focus on family and cultural history. Look at old photos, reminisce about holidays and share favorite memories.

If your families have traditions, make sure you follow them. If everyone in your family does the same thing, you will feel more connected.

“I will not be able to play cribbage with my uncle from California this year, but I can teach my kids in Nebraska while he plays with my brother in the Bay Area,’’ Newring said.

Young children will present their own special set of challenges. For starters, they will need to expend some energy, Newring says.

As much as possible, make opportunities for kids to use their muscles and be loud and destructive (within reason).

Send them outside to run in the backyard or start a wrapping-paper ball fight.

If you can, let them make their own choices. This

will give them a sense of ownership over themselves and their lives. Ask them what they want, need, feel and think.

“Ask them what they remember about holidays past. Give them the chance to talk about what they are sad about and what they wish for,’’ Newring said.

“They need to feel like they matter, too. Above all, remind them that whatever happens, they are loved.’’

Holidays are often stressful, even without a pandemic. Work on caring for yourself and your loved ones. Keep yourself grounded, using exercise, routines, meditation or yoga.

Tend to your relationships. Make an effort to engage with others.

STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Reassure yourself: This year has been difficult, but next year will be better.

Honor your traditions. If you can’t bring yourself to do any of these things, or you feel like you are trying but failing, then forgive yourself. All you can do is your best.

Newring predicts that when this pandemic is over, people will be overjoyed. These smaller holidays will take their spot in the family history, something to remember for years but nothing anyone wants to repeat.

“I think next year will be insane,’’ she says. “It will be the holiday that lasts for a year to make up for this year.’’

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Further Your Child’s Walk

with calming reads the whole family can enjoy. Stop by the bookstore today to check out our extensive selection of children’s daily devotionals.

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December 2020

1 LB. OF BONELESS WINGS

741 North 114th Street, Omaha Phone: 402-933-9733 1226 P Street, Lincoln Phone: 402-476-8677

Try these non-toy gift ideas this year TEXT Molly Cavanaugh

W

e recently did a deep clean of the kids’ playroom before hosting Thanksgiving dinner and some overnight guests. It was during that mind-numbing experience that I came to the very clear realization — we had way too much stuff.

While feverishly trying to sort, stow or scrape my way through our basement version of the Island of Misfit Toys, it dawned on me that in just a few short weeks, a fresh new shipment of playthings would be amassing itself under the Christmas tree.

And so I decided this year we will think outside the box when it comes to gift giving. Here are some ideas to give your kids instead of toys.

SARAH HOFFMAN

A MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION

There are two things that make my kids really happy — new things to read and getting the mail. What can I say? The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. So last year I gave my son a subscription to Highlights Magazine.

Now, he not only gets included in the mail call , but he has a constant source of new reading material and goofy jokes. We all win. There are loads of great kid magazines available. Cricket Media has a whole catalog of titles for all age groups and interests. Plus, you can add a digital subscription so they can read on the go.

There is also Sports Illustrated Kids for the sports fan or National Geographic Kids for the nature and wildlife nut.

MUSEUM MEMBERSHIPS

No matter what time of year it is, it feels like I’m always on the hunt for things to do with the kids that gets them out of the house but doesn’t require a second mortgage. Memberships to local museums or the zoo can be a great way to treat the kids on your list all year long. It’s also a great way to shop local.

MUSIC LESSONS

Maybe that niece of yours is the next Taylor Swift?

Or your godson shows signs of being a blossoming John Legend. Help them on their path to realizing their musical greatness by chipping in for lessons. Think of it this way — it’s not just a holiday gift, but a way of guaranteeing a mention in their future Grammy acceptance speeches.

EXPERIENCES

Instead of giving the little one on your list something, give them something to do. Some examples: a date to the ice cream shop; an afternoon at the Amazing Pizza Machine; a day at Fun-Plex or a few hours at the bowling alley. You can get as elaborate or as modest as your budget allows. The best part is you can do it together.

The saying, “It’s better to give than to receive,” is never more true than during the month of December.

And giving the gift of experiences can help spread that holiday joy and generosity for the whole year.

Molly Cavanaugh of Channel 94.1 FM’s “Big Party Show” in Omaha is a mom to two children living in Chicago. She writes weekly for Momaha.com.

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GORGEOUS GINGERBREAD TEXT, STYLING + PHOTOGRAPHY Heidi Hoffman

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F

orget setting out a plate of a sugar cookies for Santa when he arrives at your house. Surprise him instead with a stunning gingerbread wonderland.

Just make sure you still leave him a tall glass of milk!

GINGERBREAD DOUGH • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1/3 cup light molasses 1 cup light brown sugar 14 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 tablespoons honey Zest of 1 lemon 4 teaspoons ground ginger 2 teaspoons cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg ¼ teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon baking soda 4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 large egg, lightly beaten

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, add molasses, brown sugar, butter, honey, lemon zest , ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Stir frequently until the sugar has dissolved.

2. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Remove from heat and beat in baking soda. Mix briefly until combined, then let cool for 15 minutes.

3. Sift flour and salt together, then fold into the sugar mixture in batches, using a stand mixer.

4. Add egg and mix until just combined.

5. Scrape out dough onto plastic wrap, cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.

TIP: Do not overwork the dough, or cookies will spread during baking.

LAYERED SNOWFLAKE TREE COOKIES 1. Preheat oven to 325 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Roll out the gingerbread dough to ¼-inch thickness.

Using varied sizes of snowflake cookie cutters, cut out 12 snowflakes. Using a small star cookie cutter, cut out 1 star.

Transfer cutouts to the baking sheet and bake in batches for 10 minutes or until golden brown at the edges.

3. Once fully cooled, pipe royal icing onto each cookie and stack together. Dust with powdered sugar.

ROYAL ICING • • • •

2 cups powdered sugar 1 lightly beaten large egg white ½ teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon water

1. Add powdered sugar, egg white, lemon juice and water to a mixing bowl. Beat until soft peaks form.

2. Use food coloring to create your desired colors.

3. Spoon into a piping bag for easy decorating.

TIP: Prepare icing ahead and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Recipes adapted from Mima Sinclair’s “Gingerbread Wonderland.”

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SANTA’S LETTER HELPERS Name tags assure the jolly fellow won’t mix up stocking stuffers TEXT, STYLING + PHOTOGRAPHY Ashlee Coffey

T

he stockings were hung by the chimney with care — but whose is whose?

If you’re looking for a way to label your family’s Christmas stockings without having to sew or embroider, we’ve got an idea for you. These adorable name tags, made with wooden letter tiles (think: Scrabble), are the perfect way to add a special personalized touch to stockings as they hang, waiting for Santa Claus.

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December 2020

PERSONALIZED STOCKING NAME TAGS • Wooden letter tiles (these can be ordered from Etsy or Amazon) • Wood glue • Red or white string • Hot glue

1. To start, use the letters to create the names of all your family members. You can make the tags horizontal or vertical.

2. Once they’re assembled, use the

wood glue to seal them all together. Let fully dry (about 30 minutes to an hour).

3. Cut a length of string (this is entirely up to you). Thread the string through the stocking loop and tie in a knot.

Add a dab of hot glue to the back of your name tag and lay the knotted end of the string on the glue. Finish with another dab of hot glue over the knot.

Let dry.

4. Hang by the chimney with care.

Happy holidays!

Christmas movies the whole family can enjoy TEXT Molly Cavanaugh

C

hristmas day is here. After the mad dash to the tree and the frantic unwrapping of gifts has concluded, what is a family to do?

Well, if you want to take a page out of my holiday playbook, pour yourself a hot cup of coffee, set the kids up with their newly minted toys and then settle in for a holiday-themed movie marathon.

Here is a short list of some of the shows we have queued up to celebrate the active order of the day — doing nothing.

“THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL” This is a kid-friendly retelling of the classic Charles Dickens tale. It’s a happy compromise for those who want the whole family to enjoy the story. It includes all the fun and whimsy of the Muppets, but also has Michael Caine taking on the role of Scrooge, so even the grown ups can get in on the fun.

(Common Sense Media recommends for kids ages 5 and up.)

“ELF” Buddy the Elf’s big-city adventures have something for every age. As the grown-ups happily enjoy watching Will Ferrell’s comic genius wrapped up in yellow leggings, the kids can enjoy the goofy fun.

A small warning to parents: After viewing the movie, your kids may try to sell you on implementing a strict Elf diet. It will be up to you to explain that while elves may be able to subsist on candy, candy canes, candy corn and syrup, human children should not try topping their spaghetti with chocolate and maple syrup, mini marshmallows and M&Ms unless they enjoy stomachaches and regular visits to the dentist.

(Common Sense Media recommends for kids ages 7 and up.)

“A CHRISTMAS STORY” I’ve lost count of the number of times I have watched this film.

Still, I am so excited when this time of year rolls around and it starts to get marathon TV play. It makes me so happy as a parent to share this treasure with my kids. Everything about Ralphie and his family’s tale is magic — the leg lamp, the Bumpuses’ dogs, the pink bunny onesie and the charm of a 1940s Midwest Christmas.

(Common Sense Media recommends for kids ages 8 and up.)

“SCROOGED” I am a HUGE Bill Murray fan, so a chance to watch one of his movies that happens to be holiday-themed — well, you know it’s getting a spot in the marathon’s running order. If you haven’t seen this modern take on “A Christmas Carol,” do yourself a favor and squeeze this holiday gem into your viewing lineup.

(Common Sense Media recommends for kids ages 12 and up.)

Molly Cavanaugh of Channel 94.1 FM’s “Big Party Show” in Omaha is a mom to two children living in Chicago. She writes weekly for Momaha.com.

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4-SEASON WONDER DIY garland smells lemon (and orange) fresh TEXT, STYLING + PHOTOGRAPHY Ashlee Coffey

T

oven.

his DIY dried orange and lemon garland carries a bonus: It smells amazing while baking in the

CITRUS GARLAND • Oranges and lemons (amount depends on length of your garland) • Cranberries (optional) • Cotton rope or twine • Sewing needle • Baking sheet • Parchment pape r

1. Preheat oven to 200 F. 2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

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December 2020

3. Slice oranges and lemons ¼- to ½-inch thick. Too thin and the slices will be brittle; too thick and they’ll take forever to bake.

4. Lay the slices on the parchment paper and bake for three to four hours. Flip slices midway through baking.

5. Transfer slices to cooling rack. Store in a zip-top bag until you’re ready to build your garland.

6. To create garland, thread slices of orange and cranberries onto a length of string or twine. Alternate orange and lemon slices and a few cranberries until all of your slices are used. Note: Popcorn, eucalyptus leaves and beads are other variations.

7. Hang your completed garland in a place where it can be enjoyed!

When children are your everything, Anything can be.

At Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, science and heart lead us to even greater pediatric breakthroughs. We provide the very best in pediatric specialty care, advance pediatric research, educate tomorrow’s experts and advocate for children, families and entire communities – to improve the future of medicine, and the life of every child.

To find a physician for your child, call 1.800.833.3100 or visit ChildrensOmaha.org.

Education

•

Research

•

Advocacy

•

Care

2020 Holiday Show!

Celebrate the holidays with the very first show ever presented at The Rose Theater in 1995!

Meet George Bailey, whose guardian angel has to descend on Christmas Eve to save him from despair and to remind him that his has been, after all, a wonderful life. Featuring live music from the era and a virtuosic cast playing multiple roles, this production is the perfect homage to the power of community.

Based On The Lux Radio Theater Script.

Adapted by Sarah Lynn Brown.

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