momaha.com
VOLUME 6 路 ISSUE 5
MAY 2015
NO BAKE DESSERTS Sinfully easy sweet satisfaction
PLUS
Get Organized
Pack for a stress-free family adventure
Celebrat e Mom with at-h ome spa treatmen ts
WHERE THE WALLS BECOME
THE WORLD AROUND SUMMER ALL-DAY CAMPS Fontenelle Forest welcomes you to a summer of discovery and learning in a place where the quiet wild of nature offers an unparalleled opportunity for your child to learn. Nature Discovery Day Camps feature science based learning through play. Visit
FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG for complete camp listings.
1
2
MAKE A SPLASH THIS SUMMER Sign-up for Summer 1 Programs Session Dates: May 31-July 4 Member Registration: May 11 Non member Registration: May 15 The YMCA has fun programs the entire family can enjoy! Contact your local YMCA for an updated schedule and to get registered for Summer 1 programs!
Group Fitness Classes • Youth Sports • Swim Lessons • Early Childhood Education Martial Arts • Medically-based Wellness • Dance & Tumbling • Personal Training YMCA members receive priority registration and a discount on most programs!
A PLACE TO BELONG Camp at the YMCA begins May 26th. Spaces are limited, so sign up today! • Weekly themed Preschool Camp & Summer Day Camp • Mini, Special Interest Camps • Premier Camps & YMCA Camp Platte • Counselors-in-Training Program for Teens
FALL YOUTH SPORTS REGISTRATION IS OPEN NOW! Jr. Huskers Flag Football • Jr. Mavericks Soccer, ®
TM
Volleyball & Earlybird Basketball* (*Maple Street YMCA)
YMCA OF GREATER OMAHA • www.metroymca.org 3
momaha where moms connect VOLUME 6 . ISSUE 5 . MAY 2015 editor in chief ChriS ChriSTen chris.christen@owh.com 402-444-1094
creative director + designer heiDi ThorSon hthorson@owh.com 402-444-1351
momaha.com editor aShlee Coffey ashlee.coffey@owh.com 402-444-1075
production coordinator PaT r i C i a “ M U r P h y � B e n o i T
content contributors Dan i e lle h e r zo g , a My g r aCe , h e i D i Wal z aMy TokoS, SanDr a WenDel , aMy laMar, h e aT h e r W i n k e l , D e v h a n U M a r a , D a n M c C a n n , leia MenDoza, kUrT a. keeler
account executive e M i ly M a r T i n emily.martin@owh.com 402-444-1411
account executive Megan gUenTher megan.guenther@owh.com 402-444-1489
Strawberry Lime ice cream Pie (Servings: 6)
August 7,8 & 9th 2015 in Hastings Nebraska
Over 35 Events Throughout Hastings!
 � � � ��     € ‚ ƒ „ ‚ … � � � ‚ � † €   � ‡ � ˆ ‰ �  Š ‹ € ‡ €
kool-aiddays.com 800-967-2189 4
ON THE COVER
TexT + STyling Heather Winkel PhoTograPhy Dev Hanumara
HOW TO MAKE IT: 1. Place 9-inch pie pan in freezer to chill, about 10 minutes. 2. Scoop 1½ pints ice cream into a large bowl. Using large paddle spatula, turn ice cream to soften. 3. Fold in 2½ cups sliced strawberries and mix by hand until the ice cream turns pink and the berries start to break down. 4. Pour mixture into pie pan and smooth the top layer with spatula. Freeze 3 hours or until firm. 5. Thinly slice strawberries vertically and arrange slices on top of pie. Using zester, sprinkle top of mixture with lime zest. 6. Run knife under warm water; slice pie into wedges. Store leftovers in covered container in freezer. More recipes for no-bake desserts start on page 14. Momaha Magazine is a monthly publication of the Omaha World-Herald, 1314 Douglas St., Suite 600, Omaha, NE 68102. Momaha is a registered trademark, and all content is copyright 2015 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.
Family Dentistry with a Caring Touch Our team at 3D Dental knows the importance of helping patients overcome their dental fears, financial barriers and scheduling conflicts.
Your total health and wellness is our highest priority. We have multiple hygienists to take care of your whole family at once, and of course, the latest technology to take care of all of your needs.
Dr. Dean is available to his patients 24 hours a day.
Your Smile...Our Passion...Your Life! “Dr. Dean is so gentle. I have always been nervous about going to the dentist, but not now. Never thought I would be laughing on the way out. The staff is awesome!! My kids never complain about going. Thanks Dr. Dean!� - Jeannie S.
17853 Pierce Plaza, Omaha NE 68130 Phone: 402-614-0322 | 3ddental.com Email: info@3ddentalomaha.com 5
MoMaha.coM editor // aShlee coffey Wife to Kevin Coffey, music critic for the Omaha World-Herald. Mom to 15-month-old Sam. Native of Plattsmouth, Nebraska.
FUn FaCtS Ashlee enjoys playing the piano, cooking and crafting.
Staying on taSk
M
otherhood certainly has brought a new rhythm to my life. I’m definitely busier. I don’t sit down for the day until my 15-month-old son, Sam, is ready to be rocked to sleep. But being a mom also has caused me to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life – like the thrill of watching my son take his first unassisted steps and grinning wide at his own accomplishment. Being a first-time parent involves a lot of trial and error. Being on the job 24/7 is
frustrating and tiring at times. But at the end of the day, no matter what obstacles I face or errors I make, rocking my sweet baby and having him smile up at me and raise his little hand to touch my face assures me that I’m doing something right. I’m sure you can relate, and I’m excited to share these moments with you as the new editor of momaha.com, your go-to parenting site. We’ll be here for you 24/7. So let’s do this parenting thing together, and have some fun in the process.
Get Social Facebook momahacom TwiTTer @momaha_owh PinTeresT momahaowh
Expires: 5/31/2015
6
SUMMER SEASON GRAND OPENING SATURDAY, MAY 30, 1-3PM IN CENTER COURT
FEATURING A PERFORMANCE BY THE STRING BEANS!
7
CONTENTS
Real MoMs + advice 10 On Our Radar 22 Be Well 28 Get Organized 32 Sassy Housewife
d.i.Y. coRneR
12 May Baskets 20 Homemade Spa 26 Road Trip Survival Kit
Recipes
4 No-Bake Strawberry Lime Pie 16 No-Bake Fruit Loop Bars 16 No-Bake Strawberry Cake 17 No-Bake Cookie Truffles 18 No-Bake Chocolate Lasagna
2015 Summer Reading Program
Kick-off Parties
Sat * May 30 1-3 pm
except W. Dale Clark  � � Visit omahalibrary.org to find out more & sign up. 8
TRavel
19 Mom’s Ideal Getaway 24 Day Trip with Dad 30 Vacation on a Budget
Â? Â
Â?
magic
FACT:
Research shows that helping others is a key to happiness.
PRIMROSE WAY:
Infants – Private Pre-K & After School
Helping people sure feels good! CALL FOR A TOUR. Primrose School of La Vista
8202 S 97th Plaza | La Vista, NE 68128 402.517.1153 | PrimroseLaVista.com Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools and The Leader in Educational Child Care are trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2014 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. See primroseschools.com for ‘fact’ source and curriculum detail.
9
ON OUR RADAR
JUNIOR HIP & NOw LEAGUE SIGN-UP Pointy-toe shoes, BFFs and dance parties. COMPILED by Chris Christen
DOWN-TO-EARTH
Eagle Run
JUNIOR LEAGUES
8 weeks starting the second week of June.
REGISTER NOW!
EAGLE RUN
Omaha’ Omaha’s a’s La LLargest r g es t rg Program Exclusively Pro gra Pr ram Ex E xc lusi s vely l fforr Kids! fo Par 3 Course for ages 7 & up. $90 Executive Course for ages 11 & up. $115
Play is on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday.
JUNIOR LESSONS 1 week clinic (5/1-hour lessons) $90
Sessions in May, June and July. Check website for schedule.
eaglerungolf.com .cco com 10
This summer, relegate your ballet flats to the back of the closet. Pointed-toe flats that go to work, to dinner, to patio party are about to become your new faves. For the best fit, go up a half-size to give your toes wiggle room! We also love summer’s shimmery sandals for any occasion – even grocery shopping.
TRAVEL LAPTOP-FREE
Leave your laptop at home and back up your vacation photos and videos with the iBRIDGE, a nifty dual storage stick from Leef. On one end is an Apple Lighning connector to your iOS device that allows you to shoot the camera button and capture photos and videos directly on the stick. On the other end, there’s a USB port for Mac or PC. Setup is as easy as downloading the free iBRIDGE app. Designed for the iPhone 5 and newer. Available in memory sizes from 16GB to 256GB ($60 to $400).
ROLL OUT THE BIKES
May is National Bike Month. Hit a trail on your own bike or explore the cityscape on a loaner from Heartland B-Cycle. Find rental stations in downtown, midtown, north downtown and Village Pointe in Omaha. Council Bluffs gets in on the fun, too. Hop on and off a bike all day for $6, or buy a monthly pass.
DINE OUT – LITERALLY
Grab your BFF and catch up over an alfresco lunch at a restaurant in a favorite neighborhood. We love the shady patio at Mark's Bistro in Dundee. Reservations recommended. Need a rendezvous point near the Interstate? The Twisted Cork Bistro, 10730 Pacific St., never disappoints. For a more informal setting, try Paradise Bakery at Regency Court.
HELP A FURRY FRIEND
Donate to an animal shelter during Be Kind to Animals Week, May 3-9. Better yet, learn how your family can volunteer or adopt the perfect pet at nehumanesociety.org.
SCORE HIGH MARKS
Celebrate your child’s love of learning with a thank-you note to a favorite teacher. Send the note in time for Teacher Appreciation Day on May 4. Or hand-deliver it on the last day of school.
BOND WITH YOUR PRETEEN
1. Listen to music together; have a dance party in your family room. 2. Compare notes on your day. 3. Explore a local destination that's new to both of you.
TS. R O SP lay them. p s e kid liv e s m So e kid EUP. RY E LIN INJU Som IN TH F AN M BACK ND I — A GET THE T A LP TH GET WE’LL HE WE , S EN HAPP
AN ruse E PL d ove n M a s A G g. rain ns, sp derstandin OUR ussio
s with injurie
n c lete u e con re. gnos and comp a i D tric ca » a i y ve — c d e a r d, p they lo e accu s t r u o c p fo s . to go to the p with letes nd ready ow u ll th o a F t a n » n ex stude ealthy letic tr f ine a ique young room — h An ath s in medic tt offers un College o n r tu e s e n s a » R degre , Dr. Moff e America ape sports e cla h ry th and th surge Fellow in nd helps s r to the e a e o dicin He’s a Medicine an advis ics and th tsMe tr r as ts . ia r o n y d o p c o e p li ti S P S o ssocia ine p .org/ my of medic an Acade Activities A maha O s l n ic r o e r or ts Ame ska Scho Child dySp a o r b K r e ) D N 29 @ itter Y (75 on Tw 5.PLA s 5 u 9 . 2 w Follo all 40 ent c m t n i po n ap For a
.D. T, M T A F OF n with YM iatricia ic D d e O p d K turned orthopae ertise. p ainer d
11
May Day SurPriSe Spread spring cheer – in 5 minutes or less. TexT + PhoTograPhy Heather Winkel
M
ay’s arrival is cause for celebration – summer soon will be here! On the first day of the month, revive a May Day tradition and bring a smile to a special person’s face with a May basket. Our examples can be made in 5 minutes or less using supplies you probably already have around the house. Fill your basket with a homemade treat, a small bouquet of flowers – even a burst of confetti. Then plan your delivery. But do it anonymously. Simply slip the basket over the recipient’s doorknob, ring the bell and run!
Cookie Basket Makes: 1
HOW TO MAKE IT: 1. Start with a takeout box or fresh berry container. 2. Line the interior with tissue paper and decorate the exterior with stickers or washi tape. 3. Fill with cookies or other edible treat. 4. Tie on a ribbon as a handle.
Waffle Cone Basket Makes: 1
HOW TO MAKE IT: 1. Arrange flowers in waffle cone. 2. Fold 18-inch grosgrain ribbon in half and hot glue ends to the waffle cone, near the tip. 3. Crisscross ribbon around the front of the cone, gluing as you go. Make sure that your final glue dots are evenly balanced near the mouth of the cone so that your bouquet hangs evenly. Some trial and error may be necessary.
12
Meet your kid’s new teacher. Send your child on a fascinating Ed-Venture at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Before you know it, your kids will be teaching you all sorts of fun facts about life’s best things. Classes range from preschool to teens to classes you can take as a family. Subjects range from butterflies to rhinos. Visit OmahaZoo.com/education to enroll your child in their next Ed-venture today.
13
Confetti Basket Makes: 1
HOW TO MAKE IT: 1. Roll an 8.5-by-11.5inch sheet of paper into a cone and secure with double-sided tape or glue. 2. Cut tissue paper into confetti pieces. 3. Fill cone with confetti. Fold over pointed ends of cone and tape shut. 4. Affix your own label to the cone or download ours at momaha.com. 5. Attach ribbon with tape or staples for hanging.
Goodie Basket Makes: 1
HOW TO MAKE IT: 1. Fill a small bag with colorful paper straws, candy and a drawing by your child. 2. Use coordinating shredded paper as filler.
14
homes. fashion. food. travel. projects. all local.
6 issues for $9.99 subscriptions to digital or print
per year
inspiredlivingomaha.com hooton images
Enroll now! Summer Camps for beginners to advanced! Concerts For Performers • Lessons For Beginners 13270 Millard Ave. | Omaha | 68137
402.691.8875
omaha.schoolofrock.com school of rock omaha
@SORomaha
THE 2014 WOMEN’S WORLD CHAMPIONS ARE UNSTOPPABLE
THE 2015 FIVB WORLD GRAND PRIX FINAL ROUND IS COMING TO THE UNITED STATES
JULY 22-26 CENTURYLINK CENTER IN OMAHA Cheer on the 2014 FIVB World Champions as Team USA takes on the top women’s teams in the world in Omaha.
TICKET PRICES ARE: LOWER BOWL: $150 all-tourney, $35 per day MEZZANINE: $100 all-tourney, $25 per day UPPER BOWL: $75 all-tourney, $20 per day O OT
PH
ALL-TOURNEY FLOOR SEATS: $175-$250 SY TE UR CO
Visit Ticketmaster.com to purchase your tickets or call 800.745.3000 today! B
V FI
15
Five no-bake desserts to keep you cool when the weather heats up. TexT + STyling Heather Winkel PhoTograPhy Dev Hanumara
t
he last place you want to be on a gorgeous afternoon is in a hot kitchen, waiting for the oven timer to go off. From single-serve chocolate lasagna to strawberry ice cream pie, we have the perfect no-bake dessert for your first summer shindig.
Strawberry Shortcake Servings: 4
HOW TO MAKE IT: 1. Toss 2 cups sliced strawberries with 1 tablespoon sugar. Set aside several hours to allow for natural juices to form sauce for drizzling. 2. For whipped cream, pour 1 cup heavy cream into a chilled bowl. Add 2 tablespoons sugar and ½ teaspoon vanilla and beat with an electric hand mixer until soft peaks form when beaters are lifted. 3. Slice 4 glazed donuts in half and brown slices in a panini press or on a hot grill. 4. Place donut halves on pan and top with strawberry slices and spoonfuls of whipped cream and strawberry sauce. Top with remaining donut half.
16
cookie truFFLeS Servings: 35
HOW TO MAKE IT: 1. Place 1 package golden oreos cookies into a large zip-top bag and crush using rolling pin. 2. Mix the cookie crumbs and 8 ounces softened cream cheese in blender until mixture is thick and sticky. 3. Using your hands, roll mixture into 2-inch balls and place on baking sheet lined with waxed paper. 4. Place baking sheet in freezer until balls are very firm, about 30 minutes. 5. Melt 12 ounces white chocolate chips in microwave for 10 seconds at a time, stirring well between each heating until all chips are melted. 6. Coat truffles in chocolate and place on second cookie sheet lined with waxed paper. 7. Immediately top with nonpareil sprinkles. 8. Place truffles in refrigerator for 10 minutes before serving. Refrigerate leftovers to stay fresh.
Fruit Loop barS Servings: 10-12
HOW TO MAKE IT: 1. Coat 9-by-9-inch pan with non-stick spray and set aside. 2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, stir and melt 2 tablespoons butter and 5 cups mini marshmallows. 3. Stir in 6 cups Fruit loops cereal and mix together. 4. Pour mixture into pan and use your hands to press flat. 5. Allow to set for 2 hours before cutting into bars.
More on Page 18
on The CoVer Find the instructions for this recipe on Page 4.
17
ChoColate lasagna Servings: 4
HOW TO MAKE IT: 1. Place ½ package Oreo Cookies in a large zip-top bag. Using a heavy rolling pin, crush cookies to crumbs. 2. Combine crushed cookies with 3 tablespoons melted butter; divide into four cups. 3. Spread a layer of 6 ounces whipped topping over the crust in each cup. 4. Combine 3.9-ounce box of chocolate instant pudding mix with 1½ cups milk and whisk for several minutes, until the pudding thickens. 5. Divide pudding mixture into four cups, carefully layering over whipped topping. 6. Follow with a second layer of 6 ounces whipped topping. 7. Sprinkle ½ cup mini chocolate chips on top. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
18
We asked, you answered. Now, #takemethere. COMPILED by Ashlee Coffey
E
very mom craves time away from everyday life. We wondered: Where would you go, and why? Clearly, Momaha.com’s Facebook fans are ready to travel far and wide – but not for too long. Sara Locke, for example, dreams of a beach on Maui, where “I’d drink something frozen, eat something spicy and just exist for a few hours with no little ones climbing on me.” She’d enjoy the ocean waves and the sun; maybe even a little nap. “But then I’d start missing my kids, so hopefully they’re just napping in the hotel with their dad while this is happening. I can’t even go on an imaginary vacation without them,” she jokes. “Is that ridiculous?” Indeed, destinations with warm weather, white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters are top of mind. Also highly sought: A good night’s sleep. Ann Mornin Frink would head to Chicago – her home away from home – in a heartbeat. “But more realistically, 24 hours of uninterrupted sleep in my own bedroom sounds glorious.” Jessica Jamison loves the idea of escaping to the Bahamas, to read, shop and just relax on the beach with a fruity drink. “Uninterrupted sleep and some quiet time with God sound mighty good to this single mama, too.” Leslie Steadman Vera dreams of the Great Barrier Reef on the northeast coast of Australia. She’d dive with the turtles, relax on the beach and enjoy the sunsets. Shana Voycheske says, “Take me back to Barcelona! The people are really nice, the food is good and the views are beautiful.” Amanda Smith picks New York “because as hectic and crazy as that city is, I feel calm and at home there.” Ashley Carroll pictures herself in Greece – “to eat moussaka and baklava and have a big fat wedding.” Kassandra Bush-Mayo would head for Colorado, “to sip my morning coffee on a deck nestled between mountains and wildlife, then soak in hot springs by moonlight.” Margaret Arcara admits, “I’m not picky. I’d go down the street to a hotel and relax for a few days.” Laurent Bonk is right behind her. “I would get a fancy hotel room smack-dab in downtown Omaha for two nights, eat out for every meal, sit in coffee shops for hours, read books and write. I’d probably get a massage and see some theater, too.” As for Diana Fisher: “Hawaii with my hubby – for a longawaited honeymoon that never came. We went there for a ‘babymoon’ when I was pregnant with No. 1 but that trip left something to be desired, if you catch my drift.”
Camps include: open One week in length. jump, dodgeball, exercise Camps run from programs, relay races, June 1 - July 31. Open to Kids 6-12 yrs old. crafts, summer $100/Child. Olympic events, Siblings are an learning teamwork additional $75 each and much more. 8am - Noon weekly.
SIGN UP BY CALLING 402.934.3394 OR EMAIL INFO@DEFYGRAVITYUSA.COM
@
2 1 5
Camps are taught by leading professionals in the field Many performance opportunities One-week & multi-week camps Camps for ages 4-18, beginners to advanced
19
MOMAHA.COM BlOgger // AMY grACe Amy Grace writes on Fridays at momaha.com.
Looking good Indulge in a little self-pampering with these home spa treatments.
M
ay is a time for celebrating mom and everything she does to make the world go ‘round. With all of that attention coming your way, you’ll want your skin, nails and locks looking fabulous. Allow us to help with these home spa treatments. Olive Oil
Face & eyes Green Tea
To naturally repair and revitalize skin, apply 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil to a dry, freshly cleansed face. Use gentle, circular motions and avoid the eye area. Follow with an application of night cream. To help puffy, tired eyes, soak a pair of cotton rounds in iced green tea. Lie down, close your eyes and place the cotton rounds on your eyelids for several minutes. The caffeine and antioxidants will shrink the appearance of blood vessels and eliminate inflammation.
naiLs Lemon Juice
Moisturize dry, brittle nails with 1 teaspoon olive oil and a few drops of lemon juice. Massage mixture into your finger and toe nails twice a week. Sleep in manicure gloves and-or pedicure socks for best results. For a pretty pedi: Apply a base coat of nail color in robin’s egg blue, mint or petal pink. Let dry and then apply a multidimensional glitter polish to the bottom two-thirds of your big toe for shimmering accent.
20
Body Get softer skin with a dual-action scrub made from 1 cup each of brown sugar, raw oatmeal and olive oil. Combine ingredients in bowl, mix and apply the paste in a gentle circular motion to arms, legs, neck and face while standing in a bathtub or shower. Let scrub dry 5 minutes and then rinse from body. Give knees, elbows and soles of your feet extra attention by rubbing them with half a lemon. The acid will slough off dead skin and lighten darker areas.
Raw Oatmeal
Brown Sugar
Hair Give your hair a deep conditioning with coconut oil. Work about 1 tablespoon oil into your scalp and leave in overnight (under a shower cap) or use a heat cap to speed the absorption process. This treatment is especially effective on kinky or curly hair. For fine or thin hair, try this alternative treatment: Blend 1 ripe banana until smooth and creamy. Fold in 1 tablespoon honey. Apply mixture throughout hair. Cover locks with a shower cap; wait 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse well and condition as usual.
Banana
INFO: 402-444-7800, ext. 2396 twieser@nehumanesociety.org
WE Physical Therapy
Grade level results based on cumulative average grade level increase in reading and math for 17,445 students from 2010 to 2014 using the full set of available student data. SAT & ACT results based on average score increase for 8,980 and 6,619 students, respectively, from 2004 to 2014, using the full set of available student data. © 2015 Huntington Mark, LLC. ACT is a registered trademark of Act, Inc., SAT and AP are registered trademarks of the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation; and none were involved in the productions of, or endorses, this product. Huntington Learning Center®, the three-leaf logo, and 1800 CAN LEARN® are registered trademarks of Huntington Mark, LLC.
CALL 1-800-CAN-LEARN
KIDS !
Occupational Therapy
Speech Therapy
Did you know? Using hands & body movements causes children to transfer information into long term memory.
402-330-3211 • www.procare3.com 21
Omaha & Lincoln’s
Latest & Greatest Bouncers 50 OFF
$
00
Inflatable Rental * with coupon
• Birthday Parties - School Events • Church Events - Block Parties • Store Openings/Sales - Reunions • Holidays - Special Events
Visit our website for Montly Specials and Details!
“THIS IS FUN FOR ALL AGES!”
402-212-3448 Craig@BounceNinja.com FREE LOCAL DELIVERY! Shop with Confidence
BounceNinja.com Party & Event Inflatable Rentals
Learn to
Sew
• BEGINNER TO INTERMEDIATE • FUN & CREATIVE PROJECTS • KIDS 10 YRS OR OLDER • LIMITED SEATING
CALL TODAY
W W W. B E R N I N AO M A H A .CO M 10144 MAPLE STREET • (402) 572-1212
22
BE WELL COMPILED by Sandra Wendel
Sound aSleep
If you live to age 85, you will have slept nearly 250,000 hours – more than 10,000 full days, according to sleep researchers. If you have young ones, you’d probably give your eye teeth for a good night’s sleep. It’s a precious commodity. Sound sleep is linked to better mental health, improved heart health and fewer severe disorders and diseases. Source: Baylor University
look who’S walking
Dog owners walk nearly twice as much as their neighbors without dogs. Maybe it’s the extra duty to get up and out for exercise that gives dog owners a new leash on being active with their pets. Source: American Journal of Preventive Medicine
a CoMMon CulpRiT
Foods – not toys – are the most common culprit of choking incidents in kids younger than 5. The reasons have a lot to do with a child’s anatomy: underdeveloped swallowing mechanisms, immature teeth and narrow airways. High-risk foods can block tiny airways (about the size of the child’s pinky). Avoid gum, chunks of meat, cheese, and raw vegetables. Also, dried fruit, grapes, hard candy, hot dogs, nuts, popcorn and sunflower seeds. Cut grapes and hot dogs, cheese sticks and vegetables into small pieces. More than 10,000 ER visits are made for kids choking on food each year. Know the Heimlich maneuver for children and call 911. Choking is a medical emergency. Source: UCLA School of Medicine
paSS The keTChup
Ketchup lovers can be picky, even when it comes to the trendy purple and green varieties. But if you want three times as much cancer-fighting power with lycopene, reach for organic ketchup. Of 13 varieties tested by the Agricultural Research Service, dark red organic ketchups contained more lycopene – the chemical in tomatoes shown to protect against some cancers – than levels found in popular store brands and in fast-food eateries.
23
The author with Will and Lizzie.
A family’s tour of Omaha with Dad at the wheel. TexT Dan McCann PhoTograPhy Kurt A. Keeler
A
s an enraptured tourist in Paris recently, I found it odd that so many Parisian commuters went past the Eiffel Tower without diverting an eye from their iPhones. Then, just as quickly came a thought about my own backyard. Had Omaha’s treasures become just another part of my landscape? So, with our three kids, Jake, Will and Lizzie, on spring break, I decided to load them into the “man van,” fill the tank and set off on a journey of rediscovery.
A few minutes later, we found ourselves rolling through Omaha’s historic Vinton Street corridor, a cluster of local businesses that runs from 15th to 24th Streets. An early lunchtime crowd gathered outside Louie M’s Burger Lust Café, a decades-old hot spot and backdrop in the 1995 movie, “Gone in the Night.” Had the kids not been pounding Swedish Fish, Skittles and Sour Patch Kids, we would have pulled up a chair. Another time.
Stop 1: South omAhA AttrActionS
Stop 3: the old mArket
My carefully planned route from our home in southwest Omaha deposited us near Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Lauritzen Gardens and Kenefick Park. The latter is a walkable homage to Union Pacific visionary John C. Kenefick. Atop the park’s stone grand staircase, we were rewarded with an aweinspiring site: “Centennial,” the largest and most powerful dieselelectric locomotive ever built, and “Big Boy,” the world’s largest steam locomotive. Their massiveness (nearly two million pounds combined) blew me away, and I was hit with a sense of pride. My home is home to Union Pacific, a 150-year-old titan that has shaped not only Omaha – but America as well. Sappy? Perhaps, but those locomotives are cool.
24
Stop 2: Vinton Street corridor
After a short jaunt up 10th Street, we made a left onto the familiar cobblestones of Omaha’s Old Market. How many family milestones have been celebrated here? Plenty. Our kids have their favorite stops now: Ted & Wally’s for ice cream and the Old Market Candy Shop for homemade fudge, the perfect complements to an afternoon on the giant slides at Gene Leahy Mall.
Stop 4: north downtown
“When I was growing up,” I told the kids, “none of this was here.” More than 30 businesses have popped up in this 60-square-block area since the 2003 opening of what’s now CenturyLink Center
Omaha. Just to the north, the main attraction for action in June – the stunning TD Ameritrade Park Omaha, NCAA Men’s College World Series central. Before, after and between the games, you can experience an abundance of north downtown’s treasures – Hot Shops Art Center, Film Streams cinema and the indie music venue Slowdown.
Stop 5: Midtown CroSSing
As we started heading west again, Midtown Crossing makes its bold self-introduction as one of the city’s coolest blends of businesses – from local stars Brix - A Wine and Spirits Experience, Wohlner’s Neighborhood Grocery & Deli and Delice European Bakery & Café to national names including Cantina Laredo and Black Oak Grill. Alan Peak, owner of Arlan’s Barbershop, chatted with one of his regulars as he made good on a promise of old-fashioned customer service. A few storefronts away, they were serving up lo mein and sesame chicken at Pana 88. The kids and I took it all in before strolling past Midtown Crossing’s pavilion in Turner Park, a dramatic structure that enhances the development’s free community concerts including Jazz on the Green and Playing with Fire. Someday, I’ll break out the yoga pants and hit Yoga Rocks the Park. Someday.
Stop 6: dundee
Continuing our tour – and pushing deeper into the lunch hour – we arrived in the Dundee neighborhood. Home to investor Warren Buffett and the birthplace of Academy Award winner Alexander Payne, an array of eateries beckoned. Pitch Pizzeria didn’t disappoint. Minutes after our food arrived, all that remained was a fond memory of two coal-fired cheese pizzas and a meatball hoagie on a pretzel bun. With its charming globe-top lampposts, Dundee is also home to Hello Holiday, a women’s clothing boutique, and eCreamery, a custom ice cream and gelato shop. Here’s the scoop: eCreamery’s flavors can range from the exotic avocado habanero ice cream with cheddar cheese pieces and bacon to tame by comparison – bubble gum ice cream with gummy bears, or as I call it, “The Lizzie.”
Stop 7: AkSArben VillAge
Our final stop was Aksarben Village, a family friendly mixeduse community that boasts a multiplex movie theater, a varied restaurant lineup, a nightspot, a dessert spot and retail shops. Will played it straight at Jones Bros. Cupcakes with a vanilla cupcake; Jake went for cookies and cream; and Lizzie opted for a red and green macaroon, the filling of which she scooped out and ate with a spoon. The development also features a park/ amphitheater, a farmer’s market and a popular Saturdays @ Stinson summer concert series. I could stay here all night. Chugging west toward home on West Dodge Road, the kids full and fully informed, we passed Methodist Hospital where my babies were all born. Fitting. My city. My life. A journey of rediscovery – on less than a quarter-tank of gas.
Saturday, May 16 7:00 pm In The Inven on of Wings, the best-selling author of Secret Life of Bees writes an extraordinary and moving story of slavery and the uneasy friendship between aboli onist Sarah Grimke and He y (Handful), her unwanted “present.” Sue will present the themes of her novel and sign books during the recep on following.
A Great Mother’s Day Present! Countryside Community Church—8787 Pacific Street 402-391-0350 kellyk@countrysideucc.org Reserve Your Tickets Now! $10/Students free
• Full & Part Time Child Care • Before & After School • Part Time Preschool
2 Convenient Locations:
180th & Dodge • 402-932-2922 192nd & Pacific • 402-991-0696 ENROLLMENT@SMALLMIRACLECHILDCARE.COM
Writer Dan McCann is a 26-year resident of Omaha. He is a frequent contributor to World-Herald magazines.
www.smallmiraclechildcare.com 25
In mom’s plan, busy kids have no time to fight. TExT Amy LaMar STyLING + PHOTOGRAPHy Heidi Walz
C
ar rides with kids can be exhausting. Some days, driving across town is challenging enough, let alone an hours-long road trip. Heidi Walz and her husband, Bob, not only championed an 18-day, 4,500-mile road trip with their young sons last summer, they’re ready to do it again! The key is planning, says Heidi, who “scoured” dollar bins a year in advance of the family’s 2014 trip to Canada, Washington, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, Colorado and South Dakota,. “Create a vacation box and start tucking things away,”
REST STOP BAG
What you need: Large tote filled with foam football, sidewalk chalk, jacks, water guns, balloons (to bat around and chase), magnifying glasses for exploring and foam gliders. Heidi’s tip: Pull out the tote whenever you stop to stretch or eat.
26
ART BINDERS
What you need: Binders for each child filled with blank paper, stickers, printed coloring sheets, a United States map to color in as you travel through different states, state maps, state bird lists, markers and scissors. Heidi’s tip: Use the binder pockets to store postcards, maps and brochures collected at stops along the way.
she suggests. Don’t let your kids see the box – except to occasionally pique their interest. Heidi’s goal was to keep her 5- and 7-year-old sons so busy that they wouldn’t be bored, fight, whine or otherwise misbehave. Her plan worked. The trip was meltdown-free until the last hour of the drive home. As you build your own kit using Heidi’s examples, remember: The kit’s contents don’t have to be expensive or elaborate – but they do need to provide variety. Only use the kit in the car so the novelty doesn’t wear off.
STORAGE CONSOLE
What you need: Accordion files filled with stickers, mazes, small art projects, beads, joke books, Pez dispensers, state quarter books, fake mustaches, glow sticks, pipe cleaners and other random dollar bin finds. Heidi’s tip: Build a console with three shoe boxes taped together. Store DVD player and DVDs here. Attach cup holders to sides of “console” with duct tape.
TRINKET HOLDER
What you need: Travel soap dish to hold trinkets and other small souvenirs such as pressed pennies, national park tokens and seashells. Heidi’s tip: Use the soap dish for its intended purpose when you return home.
MINI ZOO
What you need: Altoid tins, index cards cut to fit the bottom of the tin (Your children can decorate the index cards to create different zoo habitats) and miniature plastic animals. Heidi’s tip: This activity can be geographically specific. For example, a miniature buffalo can represent South Dakota, while a miniature horse can represent Wyoming.
18 SEASON TH
FREE REGISTRATION FOR 2015 PROGRAMS*
Tap Ballet Jazz Hip-Hop Tumbling
• Top Quality Dance Instruction • Caring Teachers in a Fun, Positive Learning Environment • State-of-the-Art Facility • 3 Large Studios at 1 Location • Age-Appropriate Classes, Choreography & Costumes • Serving the Papillion/La Vista Area Since 1998 • Boys • Girls • Ages 2 to Adults
8610 Brentwood Drive, #7, La Vista 402-592-6722 ADCdance.com | adcboss@cox.net | Jennifer Kinsey, owner *Expires 05-31-15. New students only.
27
Get ORGanized // amy tOkOs Amy Tokos is a Certified Professional Organizer and the owner of Freshly Organized. You can find more organizing tips at freshlyorganized.com.
TRaveLIng wITH kIDs Is aLways an aDvenTuRe. Create a master family packing list. A few weeks before departure, start a list of what you need to pack. Keep the list in a handy location and add to it as things come to mind. Two days before departure, transfer the list into a Word document, save and print. As you pack, check things off and note anything that you add to your suitcases. When you return from your trip, update the list with your last-minute items and anything you might have forgotten. Presto! You now have a good packing list for your next vacation.
specify when the snacks should be eaten. For example, say, “These are your snacks for the morning. I’ll hand out your afternoon snacks after lunch.” This takes you out of the food loop and gives kids responsibility for managing their hunger and rationing their snacks. Help your child stay organized. Plastic storage bags with zip tops come in handy for toting small things like Hot Wheels or Littlest Pet Shop collectibles in backpacks.
Inventory backpacks. Make a list of what each Have the kids make lists of child needs to pack. what’s in their backpacks. Give the kids their Put the lists in a safe own pack list and a place and refer to them plastic grocery bag when it’s time to gather for their clothing items and move on to items. Place their the next stop on your bags directly into itinerary. your suitcase (after a quick inventory, Limit travel time with Vacation prep starts with of course). The bags movies and electronic are especially great devices. lists and a one-backpackfor containing small We have a beautiful per-child rule. clothing items like socks country that your kids will and underwear. Upon never see if they are always arrival at your destination, watching a movie or playing let the kids pull out their bags with their iPod. (We’ve had some and claim space for themselves in the great family conversations in the car room where they’ll be sleeping. once the distractions were taken away.) Bring maps and collect tourism and history brochures Limit each child to one backpack. along the way. Encourage your kids to study them Kids ages 4 and up can be responsible for and learn about an area, even if you’re just passing packing their own backpack (although feel through. free to make a few suggestions). Additionally, make your kids responsible for carrying their Role with it when things go wrong. own backpacks. It’s a sure-fire way to prevent A couple of years ago, we had a long layover in overpacking and control clutter in tight quarters. an airport that had people conveyors. The airport wasn’t crowded so we raced each other on the Distribute snacks for the road. conveyors to pass the time. My kids still talk about Give each child snacks for their backpack, and the fun they had at that airport.
28
CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATION!
Stay informed and save money!
Join OneWorld Community Health Centers for an exciting evening of music, food and fun as we celebrate Cinco de Mayo! All funds raised support OneWorld’s Baby Boutique, which provides baby supplies for expectant mothers who attend regular prenatal appointments. Tuesday, May 5th 5:30-7:30pm 4920 S. 30th Street Omaha, NE – North Parking lot $30 in advance, $35 day of: includes entry and two drink tickets per person. To purchase tickets or find more information, visit www.OneWorldOmaha.org.
Keep up-to-date with the issues that are important to your family. Get 50% off the Omaha World-Herald’s standard rates: 7-Day Home Delivery only $2.23 per week or Weekends Only for $1.53 per week
Call 402-346-3363 or go to Omaha.com/specialoffers 45 YEARS OF MAKING A DIFFERENCE
29
Our Si ers Don’t Just Sit! We Do All The Work for You!
• On-line convenience & reliability • Local & personal customer service • All si ers over 18 years old • CPR and First Aid cer fied si ers • All si er pass in-depth background check
Fun with numbers
Pinch a few pennies and watch your vacation fund expand. stOrY Amy LaMar PhOtOGrAPhY Heidi Thorson
A
budget is hard enough to stick to in our day-to-day lives, let alone while we’re on vacation. But it is possible. Judith Ackland of Crystal Financial Solutions guides the way with these family friendly tips for growing your vacation fund.
402.990.7795
PLAN AHEAD
seekingsi ersomaha.com
Celebrate Spring! IT’S TIME TO
EARL MAY OPEN HOUSE APRIL 24 • 25 • 26 Pink or Red Double Knock Out Shrub Rose TM
3 or more 1
GALLON
3.8
$11.99 ea.
LITERS
or
PERENNIALS
while supplies last
SHRUBS
1 Quart
PERENNIALS ONLY $5 each $5.99
1 QUART 946 MILLILITERS
Clematis 1 gallon starting at
REG.
1 Gallon
PERENNIALS starting at
$7.99 each 1
GALLON
2.1
LITERS
VINES Wisteria Amethyst Falls now only
1
REG.
2.1
LITERS
$39.99
$49.99 5
$79.99
GALLON
14.2
LITERS
COMPACT SHRUB, LOW MAINTENANCE
3 GALLON
0 $1 FF O 10.6 L ITERS
Easy Elegance® Shrub Rose Collection $34.99 2
GALLON
6.1
LITERS
BEST Earl May Plant Start PRODUCT! 1 -YEAR GUARANTEE W/ PURCHASE OF 1 GALLON EXTENDED
0 $3 FF O
2
GALLON
30
LITERS
EARL MAY PLANT START*
Re-blooming, intense rose-pink, violet or blue flowers
wine & roses special a
celebration
thursday april 23 4-8 pm
Open House Pricing Begins Make-n-Take Container Gardens $25 fee includes pot, soil, plants & FREE garden gloves
Light Snacks Provided
NURSERY & GARDEN CENTER WWW.EARLMAY.COM
6.1
REG. $49.99
$39.99
SELECT VARIETIES
$19.99 GALLON
ON SALE
$29.99each
MIX -N- MATCH
ESTABLISH A BUDGET
As a family, make a budget ahead of your trip listing what you will spend each day on food, lodging and entertainment. If you have to overspend on one item, decide as a family where you will cut back. Don’t forget to budget for souvenirs and talk about what types of things would make good keepsakes. A travel journal or scrapbook is a fun, economical way to preserve memories. Have each family member write down favorite things that happen each day. Younger children can participate by drawing pictures. Leave room for photographs, which you can add once you get home.
TM
Baby Gem Boxwood
when you buy 10 or more REG.
$14.99 ea.
Endless Summer® Bloomstruck Hydrangea
Decide ahead of time what you’ll spend on your vacation, and put a portion of the total into a savings account each month. Get the whole family involved in the planning and saving by placing a vacation jar in plain view to collect pocket change and the money saved by using coupons.
9229 W CENTER RD • OMAHA • 391-9778 OPEN 7 DAYS / WEEK
SAVE ON LODGING & MEALS If you will be at one location for several days, consider renting
a house or an apartment. The daily cost will be less, and you will have access to kitchen and laundry facilities at no extra expense. You can buy groceries instead of paying for meals in restaurants, and you won’t need to pack as many clothes. If you’re flying, this may save money on bags that you have to check. If you need to stay at a motel, select one that offers a complimentary breakfast. While the daily rate is higher, you will save on food costs for the rest of the day. An in-room refrigerator for grocery store drinks and snacks will help cut costs. Before your trip, purchase a water bottle for each family member. Fill up
the water bottles every day so you don’t have to purchase drinks from a vending machine or convenience store.
PUT THE INTERNET TO WORK
Check travel sites and savings sites for special deals on travel, lodging and entertainment. But make sure you will actually use a service or product before you buy it. Continue to check these sites for special deals while on your trip.
USE CASH
Use cash for domestic travel to avoid overspending. If you are traveling internationally, use a credit card (not a debit card) whenever possible. Banks have access to better exchange rates than you will receive on your own. Consequently, that souvenir may end up costing much less if you use a major credit card. This principle also applies to cash withdrawals.
ASK FOR HELP If you know someone who lives close to where you’re going
or has been there before, ask for recommendations on things to do and ways to save. If you are traveling to Washington, D.C., for example, contact your senate or congressional office for recommendations and insider discounts and other special offers.
CONSIDER A STAYCATION
Research things to do in your area because there may be more than you realize. This will save on transportation, lodging and meal costs. If you do leave town, consider listing your own home on VRBO, Airbnb or other popular vacation rental site.
31
Advice // dAnielle Herzog Sassy Housewife Danielle Herzog is a married mother of two and a former middle and high school teacher. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in counseling.
WarDrobe claSH Tween’s budding style too racy for mom’s tastes.
Dear Sassy Housewife, My 11-year-old daughter has a teenage cousin that she adores. The problem is that the cousin dresses provocatively, and my daughter is beginning to emulate her style. How can I discourage it without talking bad about my niece? I want to be cool, but I don’t want my daughter drifting toward clothes that make her look “trashy.” Signed, Wardrobe Woes Dear Woes, I hate to break this news to you, but the day you birthed a girl, your coolness went out the window. Now that she’s a tween, you will never know the cool things to say, do or wear. So shake that idea right now. The trick is to talk to your daughter without making her feel like a child. She knows what sexy is and she’s actually terrified of it. She’s just pretending not to be so she won’t seem like a dork to her friends. Find out why your daughter wants to dress
like her cousin. Talk about the message the cousin’s style might be sending, especially to teenage boys with raging hormones. Is your daughter seeking that kind of attention? If so, why? Every young teen wants to fit in. Especially with an older sibling, cousin or friend. When I was 11, I wore banana clips in my hair and neon sweatshirts with the necks cut out. It was a display of pure ridiculousness, yet I did it because that’s what everyone else wore. The bottom line is, if you aren’t comfortable with your daughter’s attire, then she shouldn’t be allowed to leave the house in it. It’s a parenting perk. You make the rules. It almost makes up for the fact that we will never truly be cool again. Almost.
Open Mother’s Day Until 8pm! Helping H elping elp ping g He Healthy Families GR O W Food - Family - Tradition
since 1985 OPEN ALL DAY EVERYDAY 6AM - 8PM | Conveniently located off I-680 & Center - Rockbrook Village | 402.393.0252 | gardencaferockbrook.com 32
THE BEST PLACE FOR KIDS.
GraceAnn, age 7 Asthma
Visit ChildrensOmaha.org for more information on how we can help your child. For a pediatrician, family physician or pediatric specialist, call 1.800.833.3100.
The Rose’s Production of
A musical based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney Film O i i l music i and d lyrics l i by b Richard Ri h d M. M Sherman Sh d Robert R b B. B Sherman Sh Original and Book by Julian Fellowes New Songs and Additional Music and Lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe C C t d by b Cameron C M ki t h Co-Created Mackintosh Presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI)
JUNE 5-28
Fridays at 7 pm • Saturdays at 2 pm • Sundays at 2 pm
5
+
MEMBERS SAVE $7 PER TICKET
BEST FOR AGES
Sponsors:
TICKETS
www.rosetheater.org OR (402) 345-4849
Discount vouchers available at Hy-Vee