Momaha Magazine - May 2019

momaha.com

VOLUME 10 · ISSUE 5 MAY

BEST. ROLE. EVER.

Celebrating all things mom

PREPARING FOR BABY Decorating and organizing the nursery

RAISING HUMANS Rule No. 1: There is no such thing as a perfect mom

2019

Memorial Day Run

Kids’ Fun Run

1-Mile Walk/Run

5-Mile 5 Walk/Run

in the lives of children who have communication disorders.

May 27, 2019 Register online at MemorialDayRun.org or call 531-355-6729 for more information.

Presented by:

KYLEE

Age 14, Osteogenesis Imperfecta Born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (Brittle Bone Disease), Kylee has had broken bones all her life.

That’s why her family turned to the orthopedic specialists at Children’s – an expert team ensuring this amazing teen can reach her full potential.

Experienced, unparalleled care for a full spectrum of bone, joint and muscle disorders brings families from across the Midwest and the United States to Children’s Hospital & Medical Center in Omaha. Our orthopedics program specializes in treatment for Osteogenesis Imperfecta, spinal irregularities and other congenital or acquired orthopedic conditions.

For a pediatric orthopedic specialist, call 1.800.833.3100 or visit ChildrensOmaha.org/Orthopedics.

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CONTENTS

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May 2019

REAL MOMS + ADVICE

SEASONAL

4 Editor’s Column 6 Momaha Bookshelf 14 On Our Radar 29 Be Well 32 Get Organized

7 Washi Tape Bookmarks 10 Baby Food 16 Nursery Decor 22 Not Your Mama’s Meatloaf 25 DIY Coasters

SPONSORED FEATURES 8 Omaha Children’s Museum 12 Boys Town National Research Hospital 15 Mangelsen’s 20 Fontenelle Forest 24 Interiors Joan and Associates 26 YMCA of Greater Omaha 28 Huntington Learning Center 30 The Rose Theater

momaha where moms connect

VOLUME 10 . ISSUE 5 . MAY 2019 editor in chief CHRIS CHRISTEN chris.christen@owh.com 402-444-1094

creative director + designer KILEY CRUSE k i l e y. cruse@owh.com 402-444-1375

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

copy editor SHELLEY LARSEN shelley.larsen@owh.com 402-444-1143

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

content contributors AMY TOKOS HEIDI HOFFMAN KILEY CRUSE JESSICA THOMPSON CHRIS CHRISTEN

SWIM

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cover photo T H O M A S G R ADY

account manager L AURE N KRUGE R lauren.kruger@owh.com 402-444-1261

account executive DEBORAH FERNSELL deborah.fernsell@owh.com 402-444-1209

account executive E M I LY M A R T I N emily.martin@owh.com 402-444-1411

account executive M A R I LY N M A R T I N marilyn.martin@owh.com 402-444-1405

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 2019 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.

402-932-2030 LittleWavesFamilySwimSchool.com 3

MOMAHA.COM EDITOR ASHLEE COFFEY Wife to Kevin Coffey, music critic for the Omaha World-Herald.

Mom to Sam and Elliott.

Follow her on Twitter: @AshleeCoffeyOWH

Feeling the love on Mother’s Day

I

’ll never forget my first Mother’s Day. It was 2014 and my son Sam was almost 5 months old. My husband bought me a coffeemaker and a Bat Girl coffee mug — to perk me up because I was more tired than I’d ever been in my life.

Being a parent will do that to you.

I’m celebrating my sixth Mother’s Day this year, and I can firmly say each one gets better and better. And it’s not about the gifts — though I have received some pretty great ones (the clay pot with Sam’s footprints was a big one for me).

No, it’s about the love I feel from my little family.

Being a mom can be tough. You’re needed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We’ve gone

through a lot bringing our children into this world.

Very rarely do we take the time to meet our own needs — to give ourselves some downtime to do whatever we want.

So, it’s really nice to just have one day be all about us. A day to wake up last, be served breakfast, change zero diapers and just generally be pampered.

Last year I think Sam told me “Happy Mother’s Day, Mommy!” at least 50 times. It never got old.

So whether this is your first Mother’s Day or your 50th, I hope you have an amazing day and feel immensely loved by everyone around you.

You deserve it.

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MOMAHA BOOKSHELF MARJIE DUCEY

Hot off the presses Pamper yourself with these thought-provoking, enjoyable reads It’s Mother’s Day this month and time to think about you. Maybe you want a few minutes to soak in the tub and read a juicy novel without interruptions. Or you need a moment to think about your life and where you’re headed. A few of these books will help you do that. Plus, check out a fun book that moms who garden might giggle all the way through.

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“THE BIG BOOK OF LESS: FINDING JOY IN LIVING LIGHTER”

“KNOW YOURSELF: A BOOK OF QUESTIONS”

by Irene Smit and Astrid van der Hulst Are you caught up in the Marie Kondo phenomenon? This is a book about the freedom of letting go.

Mental and spiritual declutterring is just as important as tidying your home, and the editors from Flow magazine share tips on how you can do it. The book is packed with fun paper goodies that celebrate living intentionally and making room for more joy.

by Irene Smit and Astrid van der Hulst After we read “The Big Book of Less,’’ we loved this book from the editors of Flow magazine as well. This whimsical illustrated collection is a wonderful way to get to know yourself or a friend a little better. Answer all the questions and you might surprise yourself. Who knows you best? What would you do with an extra hour every day? The best thing about the questions? There are no wrong answers.

May 2019

“NO ONE DOES IT LIKE YOU: 78 ILLUSTRATED AFFIRMATIONS FOR SELFKINDNESS”

by Amy Rose Spiegel Are you always questioning your path in life? Take a moment to reaffirm you. Each page helps you to banish the doubts and get back on track with what makes you click.

One of our favorites?

Imagine how powerful you’d be if you saw what others do in you.

And another about habits: Do what you actually like to do, not just what you’re accustomed to doing.

“CRAZY PLANT LADY”

“THE SILENT PATIENT”

by Isabel Serna Do you know someone who loves to garden?

Maybe a little too much? (As if that was ever possible!) Well, they’ll love this book, too. With its cute pictures and charming text, it celebrates being a crazy plant lady. How do you know if you are one?

If watering is a hobby, you can’t resist a cute pot and just looking at your plants brings you happiness!

by Alex Michaelides This is one of the most requested books at the Omaha Public Library since its arrival in February.

Entertainment Weekly calls it a mix of “Hitchcockian suspense, Agatha Christie plotting and Greek tragedy.”

A woman commits an act of violence against her husband and then won’t say a word. A criminal psychotherapist is obsessed with uncovering her motive, and it threatens to consume him. We can’t wait to check this out!

WASHI TAPE MARKS THE SPOT Bookmarks are an easy gift to make for Mother’s Day TEXT + PHOTOGRAPHY Kiley Cruse

Flat bookmark • Colored craft paper • Washi tape • Ribbon • Scissors or paper cutter • Hole punch

1. Use scissors or paper cutter to cut craft paper into 2-inch-by-6-inch rectangles. 2. Decorate paper however you wish with washi tape. 3. Punch hole at top center of bookmark. 4. Cut an 8-inch length of ribbon. Fold ribbon in half, thread through the punched hole and pull ends through the loop to form a tassel for bookmark.

Envelope bookmark • Envelope • Ruler • Pencil • Washi tape • Scissors

1. Recycle an envelope by measuring and marking 3 inches from each side of the bottom corner. Use a ruler to draw a line between the marks. Cut along this line. 2. Use washi tape to decorate one side of envelope.

Repeat pattern on opposie side.

Press washi tape together to seal the edges. 3. Trim excess tape to form your triangle. If your tape doesn’t go all the way to the bottom of the cut side of the envelope, trim with scissors or paper cutter to create a tidy edge.

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SPONSORED FEATURE OMAHA CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

‘For every child, a childhood’ Access is at the heart of giving kids space to play, create, grow STORY Dan McCann

F

or every child, a colorful, pneumatic encounter with the ball-dropping Super Gravitron.

For every child, a chance to dream it – and build it – in the fully equipped Tinker Lab. For every child, an opportunity to explore the nooks of the new S.T.E.A.M. Cave and excite creativity in the paint and glow of the Art Smart Center.

For every child, a childhood.

Omaha Children’s Museum – one of the city’s iconic attractions and a fixture at 20th Street and St. Mary’s Avenue for 30 years – is proclaiming its vision for the years to come: “For every child, a childhood.”

“Childhood is that time for children to be at school and at play, to be growing – both physically and developmentally, becoming confident, and having the love and encouragement of caring adults. … Engaging the whole family together in that wholesome play is part of what creates that safe space of childhood,” says Lindy Hoyer, executive director.

Embedded in the museum’s vision is an equally bold challenge. Supporting a childhood for every child makes access paramount – and not everyone has the means for admission. The museum and its donors are working to clear that hurdle by channeling collaboration and generosity into various avenues of access, including: Welcome Fund family memberships.

These donor-subsidized annual memberships are available to lowerincome families, by application, for a $5 processing fee.

Partner Schools Program. Omaha Children’s Museum collaborates with more than two dozen local schools and a roster of community donors to get the museum into the classroom and kids into the museum.

Library Partnership Passes. Omaha Public Library cardholders can check out a one-day family pass at different times throughout the year. “ ‘For every child, a childhood’ becomes so rich and meaningful because we feel

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May 2019

OMAHA CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

like we are an organization that has really committed to access,” Hoyer says.

Luisa Palomo Hare and her students have benefited from that commitment for 15 years now.

“Play lets children make sense of their world,” she says. “I value play and creativity as much as any content area that is taught in schools.”

Palomo Hare, 2012’s Nebraska Teacher of the Year, has been teaching kindergarten at museum partner school Liberty Elementary since 2004. Almost monthly she and her classes have made that short walk across the street to 35,000 square feet of permanent exhibits (from Imagination Playground to Fantastic Future Me) and special ones, including Attic Adventures, which runs through Sept. 1. The museum-designed Enchanted Kingdom, with proprietary animatronics, opens May 25.

Palomo Hare says the museum has enriched her students’ development in both academic and social-emotional ways: “They’re able to connect concepts from

our classroom to activities at the museum.”

Museum Board member Anne Karabon, Ph.D., an assistant professor of early childhood/STEM education at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, praises the access to high-quality play and playrelated learning. “Across the board, in everything they do, the museum is so mindful of all those different opportunities – the cognitive, linguistic, social and physical development of children – that can happen through play, and I think that’s really outstanding.”

Some 325,000 people from the Omahaarea and beyond visited the museum last year.

“We had a family from California post on Facebook that this is the best children’s museum they’ve ever been to,” Hoyer says.

That’s a credit to a team committed to engaging the imagination, creating excitement about learning and making play dynamic, enriching and accessible.

For every child, an escape, a laugh, a chance to create that didn’t exist before.

For every child, a childhood.

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HURRAY FOR PURÉE! Trust us: Homemade baby food isn’t a chore.

Making your own baby food is easy and worthwhile. It saves money, tastes better and you know exactly what you are feeding your little one.

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May 2019

Blueberry Blueberries can be introduced early in the weaning process because they’re unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, these sweet little berries are perfect for your baby.

• 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen) • 1/2 cup filtered water

1. Add water to a pan and bring to boil. 2. Add blueberries and reduce heat. Simmer for 15 minutes or until blueberries are soft and tender (frozen blueberries may take longer to cook). 3. Using a slotted spoon, transfer berries to blender. Set aside cooking liquid.

4. Purée to your baby’s favorite consistency, adding the cooking liquid you set aside to thin, if needed. 5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Add excess to an ice cube tray and freeze for up to 3 months. Note: To thicken the purée, slowly add baby cereal while blending. parent.guide/homemade-blueberry-baby-food-recipes

Apple Yield: 2 cups • 4 medium apples, peeled, cored and cut into chunks. (Gala, Honeycrisp or another sweet-eating variety) • Water

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 inches of water to a simmer. Place a steamer basket over the water. Add the apple chunks. Cover and steam until tender, about 12 to 15 minutes. Let the chunks cool slightly. 2. Transfer the apples to a food processor or blender. Purée to desired consistency, adding water if needed.

Recipe from “Real Baby Food” by Jenna Helwig

Carrot Yield: 1 medium carrot = 3 ounces purée

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• Organic carrots, firm with smooth exterior and rich orange color • Water

1. Rinse carrot in cold water and peel with a vegetable peeler.

Remove greens. Dice into small pieces. 2. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat (until bubbles are soft) and cook carrot until tender (about 10 to 15 minutes). Drain water and rinse carrot in cold water for three minutes to stop the cooking process.

3. Purée cooked carrot in a food processor or blender until smooth.

Add water as needed to reach desired consistency. Once your baby is ready for finger foods, typically around 10 months, you can serve a carrot that’s been cooked and cut into tiny pieces. 4. Cool carrot purée and refrigerate leftovers in BPA-free containers for up to 3 days. Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator. Note: Carrots are versatile; after your baby has mastered single-vegetable purées, you can mix carrots with a variety of fruits, other veggies and meats. Try mixing carrot purée with broccoli, green beans, applesauce, peaches, butternut squash, zucchini, sweet potatoes, russet potatoes, brown rice, lentils, beef or chicken

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How to freeze baby food

Save time by making a large batch of baby food and freezing some for later. Drop 2 tablespoon portions into the wells of silicone ice cube trays. Let the baby food freeze, pop the cubes out and store in an airtight container or zip-lock bag in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Simply place frozen cubes in the microwave on high for about 60 seconds. Stir and test the temperature to be sure it isn’t too warm for baby before feeding.

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SPONSORED FEATURE BOYS TOWN NATIONAL RESEARCH HOSPITAL

Jump in, ‘heart first’ Boys Town Craniofacial Clinic helps couple improve lives of young boys

E

arly in their marriage, Kari and Scott College decided to grow their family through adoption. After Kari volunteered at an orphanage in Beijing, the Colleges knew that this was the future of their family. With the help of an adoption agency, they found a baby boy from China with a third-degree cleft lip and palate.

“We knew he had a cleft palate, but didn’t really understand what that meant,” Scott said. “We jumped in, heart first.”

Based on a reference from a family friend, the Colleges sent the boy’s medical file to Dr. Edward Kolb, hospital director and medical director at Boys Town National Research Hospital. Dr. Kolb explained the implications and treatments of the condition.

It was a lot to take in, but Kari and Scott did not care. They had fallen in love with the little boy in the adoption file.

On May 13, 2008, Elijah (Eli) officially became a member of the College family.

He arrived at age 2, never having heard the English language and never having received treatment for his cleft palate.

After a year of surgeries and speech therapy at the Boys Town Craniofacial Clinic, his incredible progress was undeniable.

“His speech and language skills really took off,” Kari said. “It was like he was just waiting to be given the opportunity.”

With their support system and the success of their son in mind, the Colleges confidently started the adoption process again. When filling out the form for their next adoption, they were sure to check the box indicating they would adopt a child with a cleft lip and/or palate.

On July 6, 2010, 14-month-old Noah

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May 2019

joined the College family. Like his adoptive brother, Noah had a cleft lip and palate, but Kari and Scott were confident he could be just as successful with the help of Boys Town Hospital.

With their care plan well underway, Eli and Noah are happy, healthy boys.

Their parents joke that the youngsters “complete each other.” They began their lives as young strangers with cleft lips on opposite sides. They’ve grown to be brothers whose personalities are compatibly different.

“Boys Town has been life-changing for our boys,” Scott said. “The professional medical help and care we have received has far surpassed anything we could have expected. Over the years, they have

become an extended family to us. You can tell they care about our boys and their development and well-being.”

Services like the Craniofacial Clinic exemplify the mission of Boys Town Hospital – to change the way America cares for kids and families. Through comprehensive, patient-focused programs, Boys Town Hospital provides life-changing care.

This Memorial Day, we invite the community to contribute to this mission.

Join Boys Town Hospital at the Memorial Day Run, as we raise money to support the life-changing programs that impact kids with communication disorders and their families in Omaha, and around the world.

Nebraska City HOME OF ARBOR DAY SINCE 1872

F o r n e a r l y 1 5 0 y e a r s , N e b r a s k a C i t y h a s b e e n pr o u d t o s a y w e a r e t h e o f f i c i a l Ho m e o f A r b o r D a y . I t w a s h e r e w h e r e J . St e r l i n g M o r t o n f i r s t f o r m u l a t e d h i s i d e a f o r a s t a te - w i d e t r e e p l a n t i n g h o l i d a y … s o m e t h i n g w e s t i l l h o n o r a n d ce l e b r a t e .

T o d a y w e ’ v e a d d e d a w i d e r a n ge o f c o m m u n i t y a c t i v i t i e s , i n c l u d i n g a p ar a d e , p a n c a k e f e e d , c r a f t s h o w s , a n d e v e n o l d - f a s hi o n e d b e d r a c e s . Co m e a n d c e l e b r a t e w h e r e i t a l l b e g a n !

Find details at www.GoNebraskaCity .com.

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Boys Town Speech-Language Therapy

Helping

Children Succeed

All parents want their children to succeed. If you are concerned about your child’s speech-language development, Boys Town Speech-Language Therapy can help.

Our speech-language therapists work with children and families to address a range of communication concerns. If you think your child may be experiencing problems, schedule a communication evaluation today.

Boys T B Town Speech-Language S h L Th Therapy Boys Town Medical Campus - Downtown Lied Learning & Technology Center 425 N 30 Street 531-355-5059

2152460-01

Boys Town Pediatrics 6517 South 180 Street 531-355-5059

boystownhospital.org

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ON OUR RADAR MARJIE DUCEY

THINGS TO TRY THIS MONTH FEEDING SUPPORT Milk Boss from Itzy Ritzy is an infant feeding support, burping pillow and arm cushion all in one. Keep baby at the perfect angle while feeding to help reduce reflux or gas. It also acts as a rest while baby is on his or her tummy getting burped. It also helps to prevent strained arms from feeding or cradling. $24.99. www.itzyritzy.com

PERFECTLY CHILLED A colleague highly endorses the Poketo stemless wine cup from Corkcicle. It holds 12 ounces of your favorite wine and keeps it the perfect temperature from your first sip to your last. Triple insulated, vacuum sealed and shatterproof. Perfect for poolside or music in the park. $24.95, corkcicle.com

EAT YOUR VEGGIES Is getting as many veggies as you should a problem?

The push slicer set from Kuhn Rikon just made it easier. Chop up vegetables to add to any dish you’re concocting. It easily measures how many veggies you have chopped or diced.

And it all clicks together, saving space and ensuring that nothing gets lost. $30. www.kuhnrikonshop.com

IT’S TACO TIME! Our reviewer’s family loves taco night, and she was able to kick it up a notch with these festive kitchen tools from Prepara. The three-section tray got them started. “In addition to being beautifully designed, it made taco building easier than passing individual bowls of taco ingredients,’’ she said. The multi-taco holder makes building multiple tacos a cinch. Tortilla Savor $26.99. 3-section tray $24.99. Taco holders $3.99-$6.99. prepara.com

BIKE SAFETY The Dissenter helmet has a comfortable feel that cradles the head nicely, with an easy-to-use dial that allows you to tighten or loosen the fit to your head. Just make sure to tighten the straps correctly. It’s designed for the extra protection needed for off-road riding, so it doesn’t have the vents that some road-riders prefer for long days in the saddle or the field of vision for the way road riders sit on their bicycles. That said, our reviewer says for urban commuting, the extra protection it affords is reassuring. It is pricey. If money is an obstacle, get a cheaper alternative. The most important thing about bicycle helmets is wearing one. $90.96. www.sweetprotection.com

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May 2019

SPONSORED FEATURE MANGELSEN’S

the party starts here Family-run Mangelsen’s is celebration central; free popcorn is part of the thrill STORY Maggie O’Brien

M

angelsen’s is as much of a part of Omaha history as the zoo, college baseball and Warren Buffett.

It seems like everyone and their mother or grandmother has been to the event supplies store at 3457 S. 84th St. That might be true, owner David M. Mangelsen says – but new customers pop in all the time.

“Every day I greet people who have never been here and were either driving by or dropped in because ‘So-and-so told me I had to come here.’ “ He asks if they’d like a bag of fresh-popped popcorn. Then, a history lesson of sorts begins.

David directs his visitors’ attention to a display of family photos and then shares a bit of the family-run company’s success story: Berenice and Harold Mangelsen opened the store May 4, 1961. They had four sons, and each worked at the store at one time or another growing up.

David stayed on and made the store his career while his brothers went different directions. Bill ventured into wholesale distribution, Tom became an award-winning wildlife photographer and conservationist and Hal pursued a career in the import business.

Today, David’s own children, Marla, David A. and Matt, are involved in the business. It’s too early to know if any of the grandchildren will jump in someday – but David says he’d be “very proud” if they did.

A warm, welcoming, family-

MANGELSEN’S

Mangelsen’s is a family-run business. From left: Matt Mangelsen, David M. Mangelsen, Marla Mangelsen and David A. Mangelsen.

friendly environment is part of the store’s legacy. David makes sure every employee understands and supports that. “Family Run and Selling Fun Since 1961” is the store’s longstanding slogan. It fits everything they do, David says.

“I tell employees, ‘If we take care of the store, it will take care of you.’ And that means taking care of the customer as well,” he says.

“We are thankful for amazing team members over the years who have helped make us what we are today.”

A lot of specialty and hobby stores come and go with the trends, David says. Mangelsen’s staying power is that it offers something for everyone.

“We’re very diversified,” he says. “A year-round Christmas shop, frames, candles, cake decorating items, classes, scrapbooking supplies – you name it, we’ve got it. There is always a holiday and always something going on. We’re there for it all.”

But the store is about more than what’s on the shelves.

“People come in here because they know it’s a family,” David says.

“You don’t get that anymore, from anywhere else. People who have grown up and left Omaha make sure they stop at Mangelsen’s when they come back to visit. When you come to town, you have to go to Mangelsen’s.

“Plus, there’s free popcorn.”

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Courtney Otte, with daughter Riley, added comfort to the room with a plush rug and floor pillows.

BOY OR GIRL? How to decorate when your baby’s gender will be a surprise STORY Chris Christen + Courtney Otte PHOTOGRAPHY Paula Moser Photography

C

ourtney Otte is mom to 18-month-old Riley. She recently blogged about key considerations in designing her daughter’s room. Otte, who keeps a busy schedule as principal interior designer with The Modern Hive Design Studio, decorated without knowing the baby’s gender. “It was actually a lot more enjoyable and easier than what I thought.” Here are her tips.

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May 2019

FAIL-SAFE APPROACH 1. START WITH THE BASICS. Choose a base color (or two) that is neutral and flexible. Riley’s room features SherwinWilliams “Moderne White” for the walls and Sherwin-Williams “Summit Grey” for the trim. The furniture is all white; the upholstery is gray. The crib sits against an accent wall with wallpaper in a light gray geometric pattern.

Custom upholstered wall panels flank the accent wall for interest and an unexpected bonus: sound absorption.

2. ADD SOME COLOR. Gender-neutral blue became the accent color for Riley’s room. When combined with other colors, it’s easy to announce, “Hey, I’m a boy” or “Hey, I’m a girl.” Green and yellow accents were planned if it was a boy; magenta and purple were on standby if it was a girl.

3. FINISH THE ROOM AFTER BABY HAS ARRIVED. Have your genderspecific accent accessories (pillows, crib skirts, drapery, etc.) selected so that all you have to do is click the “submit order” button and have the items shipped straight to your door.

COURTNEY OTTE’S NURSERY CHECKLIST Crib Rocker Foot rest/stool Side table Dresser/changing table Accent lamp or floor lamp Room-darkening drapery Mobile Comfy rug Hamper Bookshelf Wall art Accent wall Statement ceiling light fixture

WHEN PLANNING 1. KEEP IT FLEXIBLE. They grow so fast, and life as you know it is constantly changing! One day the nursery or playroom may be filled with all things newborn: teethers, rockers, infant activity mats. Before you know it, the room is exploding with building blocks, oversize stuffed animals and a mini kitchen.

Create a space that encourages room for growth. Keep things that can stay in the room over time at top of mind during the initial design: large rug, light fixture, wall color, and most important, storage. Let everything else fall into place, because trust me, you’re going to end up with quite a few large and random toy sets from Christmas and birthday celebrations. And you’re going to need space for these items, unless you want them hanging out in your living room for the next year.

2. STAY ORGANIZED. This one is important for preserving your sanity.

Really think through what you will need in the space to keep it organized. A few bookcase units with bottom-level storage and top-level shelving can be great for keeping toys off the floor and books

organized. Consider incorporating several decorative bins and baskets for keeping toy sets together. You can even display some of these bins on those bookcases for easy access.

3. INCORPORATE ENGAGING ELEMENTS. Activities and colors can spark creativity in a space. I like a neutral backdrop in wall paint because of how busy a space can get with the various colors of several toys. However, I highly encourage punches of color and pattern in rugs, drapery, even an accent wall with wallpaper or a magnetic/chalkboard.

The accent could even be a wallpapered ceiling. The possibilities are endless.

4. KEEP COMFORT IN MIND. The nursery and playroom are spaces where your child will grow, imagine, learn and spend a lot of time. Evoke a comfortable atmosphere by incorporating a plush rug to lounge on, floor pillows to create spaces such as a reading nook, and kid-sized furnishings. Little people see lower to the ground, and will need smaller scaled furniture pieces to play comfortably and safely.

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BABY’S DOMAIN Spaces to snuggle and play STORY Chris Christen PHOTOGRAPHY Thomas Grady

K

ara and Vince Bellino wanted the gender of their first child to be a surprise at birth, so they kept the nursery palette neutral with grays, golds and whites and personalized the space with pops of color once Tatum Olivia arrived.

Kara spent a lot of time looking at cribs. “For us, it was the focal point of the room since everything was so neutral,� she says. Her search ended at Pottery Barn. “I love it,� she says of the minimalist crib design. (Featured on the cover of this issue.)

But the rocking chair — also from Pottery Barn — is her favorite furniture piece for the space. It sits in a corner along with a fluffy foot rest and side table and is the perfect spot for precious mommy-daughter time.

A second bedroom on the second floor of the Bellino home — next to the nursery — provided an opportunity for a playroom. “I wanted a place for our little one to hang out and to feel like it was her own space for toys, books, etc.,� Kara says. “I am sure the space will evolve into perhaps an arts and crafts room, or a place to do homework.�

The playroom and nursery are separated by a laundry nook. “That works with how our family lives,� Kara says. “Most of the laundry is coming from the bedrooms, so we wanted it to be close by.�

Floating shelves and patterned tile add personality to the nook and tie it to the playroom. “We are loving everything about it,� the new mom says of the layout.

The playroom is gender-neutral and designed to grow along with little Tatum’s interests. Someday, it may be a craft room or a study area.

C U R IO S IT Y

Learning Together Preschool at CRCC uses

an Integrative Peer Program, which provides all children the opportunity to interact and learn in the same classroom. Our program promotes curiosity, learning, friendships and understanding, while celebrating each other.

Now taking applications for Fall classes!

2010 N 88th Street 402-496-1000

5321 S 138th Street 402-895-4000

2154652-01

18

2152588-01

19

SPONSORED FEATURE FONTENELLE FOREST

Springtime fun As the weather warms, it’s an ideal time to visit the forest

T

he sun is shining, the temperature is climbing, green foliage is all around and creatures are stirring.

Spring is the ideal time to visit Fontenelle Forest. Whether you’re looking for active fun for the kids, relaxing yoga for yourself or a nature adventure like no other, you’ll find it at the forest. Here’s a sampling.

ACORN ACRES

Acorn Acres is a one-acre natural playscape that offers children a unique place for unstructured play and outdoor learning and a chance to be delightfully boisterous, physically active and wonderfully creative.

HABITAT HOLLOW

At Habitat Hollow, children learn about animals on display and play nature games, regardless of rain or heat. An indoor jungle gym, animal costumes for kids and a puppet show area ensure families can have a great time regardless of weather.

RAPTOR WOODLAND REFUGE

Thirty feet above the forest floor, this canopy-level exhibit is designed according to the natural habitat of the rescued birds housed within these mews. Each visit is its own unique adventure, story and memory to share.

WALK THE RIVERVIEW BOARDWALK AREA

Take our most popular hike on the Riverview Boardwalk Area. The 1.32-mile loop is ideal if you use a wheelchair or mobility scooter, push a stroller or simply want to avoid the mud. Beginning at the Nature Center, take a short jaunt down Linden Trail, re-enter the Riverview Boardwalk through the first loop and take a detour down Ridge Trail. Continue the three loops of the Riverview Boardwalk to see a view over the Missouri River into downtown Omaha and the Constitution Tree – an oak tree that’s at least 36 years older than the U.S. Constitution.

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May 2019

AJ DAHM

MUD PIES/ WILD SUMMER DAYS Mud Pies is a relaxed, drop-in-and-play program that encourages interaction between adult and child. Each week, a natural science topic is explored through station-based activities, free play and a guided walk. Come discover the joy of sharing nature with your child! Mud Pies meets every Monday to Thursday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Fontenelle Forest Nature Center.

YOGA FOR MOMMIES

This is your chance to relax and de-

stress away from the kiddos – Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings – surrounded by nature. This adult class is accessible for all levels of yogis, from beginner to experienced. The sounds of the forest are your soundtrack as you move toward wellness. A meditative walk will follow, ending with tea for those who can stay.

This program is free for members or with daily admission.

There are even more fun activities planned at Fontenelle, especially as the weather warms. For more information on all that Fontenelle Forest has to offer, go to fontenelleforest.org.

VO L UN TEER

Go on a reading adventure with local children!

June 21 is United Way of the Midlands’ annual day of service, Day of Action.

Volunteer to read to children and make their day unforgettable!

SIGN UP TODAY

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r e v o c Dipsring S WITH US

CHECK OUT MOMAHA.COM FOR SPRING ACTIVITIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY JUST MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN OMAHA

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OPEN DAILY FROM 8-5

21

MINI MEATLOAVES Just mix, shape and bake STORY + PHOTOGRAPHY Heidi Hoffman

22

May 2019

Bring yourTIPS vitamin A-game into TRAVEL FOR GRANDPARENTS your homework beforeThis heading out on a trip the• Do kitchen, Dads. meat-andwith the grandkids. potatoes dinner is sure to be a • You can learn about all types of wonderful travel grand slamatfor Mom andRequest the akids. opportunities visitnebraska.com.

Learn aabout animal behaviors and nutrition.

Explore Explor a day in the life of a veterinarian.

Perform Perfor a simulated exploratory surgery.

Interact with live animals each day.

Inte

copy of the 2019 Travel Guide.

Not•Your Mama’s Meatloaf Learn more about the amazing adventures

Serves 4 available at state parks by visiting • 2 cloves garlic outdoornebraska.gov.

There’s trail rides, fishing, • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley archery, paddleboats and more. You can even • 1 onion spend the night in a teepee or a new glamping • Ÿ cabin. cup panko (Japanese-style bread crumbs) • ž teaspoon salt • Pepper, to taste

SAVE $25

be substituted)

ENTER THIS CODE AT CHECKOUT:

• With older and more adventurous kids, check out outdoornebraska.gov/ventureparks. Scale a • 20 ounces ground beef (ground organic chicken could wall or go on the ape climb. • Involve the grandchildren in the planning • 1 tablespoon vinegar

process. Ask them what type of things they might • 1 tablespoon ketchup enjoy potatoes doing. • 4 sweet

• 12 •ounces green beans When traveling with children, be sure to follow

the new child passenger safety regulations that • 2 tablespoons butter require all children • 2 tablespoons honey through age 7 (up to age 8) to ride safely secured in the • 2 tablespoons good olive oilback seat in a car seat or belt-positioning booster seat.

1. Heat oven to 450 F. 2. Mince garlic and chop parsley. 3. • Some other important tips from Rose White, the Halve and peel onion. Grate one half into a large bowl and public garlic, affairschopped director parsley, for Nebraska add minced panko,AAA: ground beef and 1. Always know and where restrooms salt. Season with pepper mixthe withnearest hands to combine. 4. are located.

In a small bowl, combine vinegar and ketchup. 5. Divide meat Bring some games and snacks that the mixture2. into fouralong equal portions and shape into single-serving grandchildren will enjoy.sheet and brush each loaf loaves. Place on lightly oiled baking 3. During your6.adventure, plenty phowith ketchup mixture.

Bake for 25take minutes.

7. of Peel and dice tos capturing the pieces. fun youPlace are experiencing. sweet potatoes into half-inch in a medium pot of water and bringatofirst-aid a rollingkit boil.

Cook for 10 or until 4. Pack and expect a minutes few minor tender. 8. mishaps.

Wash green beans. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch saltto and pepper. on baking sheet 5. Beofsure review thePlace events calendar of and cook in oven at 450 for 15 minutes or until slightly as crispy.

9. Mash the Fcommunities you are visiting many sweet potatoes until smooth. butterand andother honey.events Stir until host fairs, rodeos, Add concerts combined.during Add saltthe and pepper to taste.

10. Once meatloaf peak travel months. is done, plate meatloaf, green beans and sweet potato mash.

Serve and enjoy.

MOMA19 Junior Vet Camp

Intermediate Vet Camp

Students completing 2nd - 5th grade Mon. - Thurs. 8 am - 4 pm • June & July

Students completing 6th - 8th grade Mon. - Fri. 8 am - 4 pm • June & July

For registration and information, visit:

www.oxbowvetcamp.com

2140602-01

O pen to m em bers & N o n m em bers!

June - August • Weekly • K-7TH GRADES

SUMMER CHECK OUT MARIAN’S SUMMER CAMPS

Camps

For camps for girls in K through eighth grades, go to marianhighschool.net/camps.

Recipe adapted from HelloFresh

Day Camps

Premiere Camps

sport Camps

EARLY BIRD

KIDZ SHOPPE

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HIZ & HERS

Kidz Shoppe and Hiz & Herz Consignment Sales in West Omaha. See our websites for information and upcoming sale dates.

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Register today at DISCOUNT THROUGH www.jccomaha.org APRIL 4, 2019 7 4 0 0 M I L ITA RY AV E N U E O M A H A , N E 6 8 1 3 4 MARIANHIGHSCHOOL.NET 333 S. 132nd St. | Omaha, NE 68154 | 402-334-6426

2143677-01 2152587-01

21 23

SPONSORED FEATURE INTERIORS JOAN AND ASSOCIATES

Multi-purpose sewing and craft room.

Fit for families

Pro tips for maximizing your living space, giving yourselves room to grow STORY Lindi Janulewicz PHOTOGRAPHY Interiors Joan and Associates

T

he design team at Interiors Joan and Associates includes plenty of moms with creative solutions for the home. Here are a few general tips from the pros for maximizing your living space for a growing family.

• Storage space for toys, games and sports gear shouldn’t be an afterthought.

Decide where you want the kids to play and park their gear, then design the right storage in that area. Toys may spill into more than one area, and your plan may change as the kids get older, but at least you’ll have plenty of storage to adapt.

• For siblings sharing a bathroom, a Jack-and-Jill layout between two (or even three) bedrooms works great. Equal and shared but private!

• Homework is a big part of kids’ lives. Foster learning by giving them a dedicated space for their studies.

• The family room of yesterday is the

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May 2019

A hub for the domestic engineer.

great room of today. Outfit yours with a TV/media center, comfortable and ample seating, soft and task lighting, plush rugs and end tables the whole family can use and enjoy.

• Mud rooms are the best invention for moms since sliced bread. This relatively new space is a popular addition to most renovations and a practical must-have

in new construction floor plans. Utilize hooks, cubbies, lockers, shelves, sinks, cabinets, charging stations, mail centers, etc., to help keep your household organized. Go a step further and incorporate a desk as a command center for mom!

• Gone are the days of schlepping laundry to a dark basement. Today’s laundry rooms are big and functional and often located near upstairs bedrooms in two-story homes. Even more convenient: a laundry in the master closet.

• After kids graduate and go off to college, or get married and leave the family home more permanently, their bedrooms can take on a whole new purpose. Think laundry suite, sewing room, craft or project area or new guest quarters.

Find more inspiration at interiorsbyjoan.com.

DESIGNED BY YOU DIY coasters make a fun and personalized gift STORY Jessica Thompson PHOTOGRAPHY Chris Christen

This Mother’s Day, favorite coffee mugs get a pretty coaster to land on.

Cork coasters • Cork coasters • Tape (masking or washi tape works best) • Acrylic paint • Brushes • Clear acrylic sealer

1. Apply tape designs to coasters, leaving areas of exposed cord. Smooth tape so it lies completely flat and lines are straight.

2. Paint the exposed cork. Let dry. 3.

Optional: Apply a second coat of paint for more intense color. Let dry. 4. Once paint is set, remove the tape. Waterproof coasters by spraying both sides with a clear acrylic sealer. Allow to dry according to instructions on the sealer. 5. Affix felt to bottoms of coasters to protect surfaces from scratches.

Tile coasters • Square tiles, 4.25 by 4.25 inches (available at home supply stores) • Squares of paper or fabric, 3.75 by 3.75 inches • Squares of felt, 3.75 by 3.75 inches • Mod Podge • Sponge brush • Glue • Clear acrylic sealer

1. Brush one layer of Mod Podge on a tile and place a piece of paper or fabric, centered, on the tile. Allow to dry 15 minutes. 2. Apply a coat of Mod Podge to top of the decoration. Allow to dry 15 minutes. Repeat process for a total of four coats of Mod Podge. Allow to dry overnight. 3. Spray finished tiles with clear acrylic sealer (follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the can). The sealer makes the coasters water-resistant. 4. Once coasters are completely dry, glue a felt square to the bottom of each tile. Variation: Attach rubber bumpers to the four corners of each tile and sign and date your gift.

Adapted from The Cottage Mama

Adapted from Eleanna Kotsikou

25

SPONSORED FEATURE YMCA OF GREATER OMAHA

A family affair Omahan spreads her love of the Y to her two sons, new members STORY + PHOTOGRAPHY Mike Watkins

I

n many ways, Alethea Lewis grew up at the YMCA. As a child, she and her brother along with their dad regularly made their way to the North Omaha Y. When she moved to Virginia and then Hawaii as a young adult, she remained active and engaged in the Y in both locations.

So when she and her family returned to Omaha three years ago, she naturally gravitated back to what she knew.

And now she works there – having recently been promoted to membership director at the Butler-Gast YMCA on Ames Avenue.

“The YMCA has always been an important part of my life, and I’m excited that I’m getting the opportunity to pass that love to (her son) Kai,” said Lewis, who also oversees Health and Wellness, Group Exercise and Youth and Family programs at Butler-Gast.

“Our membership is up, our retention rate has increased, and I want this Y to continue to grow. That’s my mission.”

A Burke High graduate, Lewis gained her certification as a Zumba instructor while living in Hawaii, so when she and her family returned to Omaha, she was eager to find somewhere she could teach.

As a stay-at-home mom, she looked for outside opportunities and connections within the community, and as a member of the Maple Street Y, she went to group exercise classes regularly.

As someone who always enjoyed exercise, she became friends with one of her instructors and inquired about teaching classes at the Maple Street location. She started subbing for Refit classes, which gave her a platform to teach at Butler-Gast as well as other locations in town.

It wasn’t long after that when she decided to apply for the open membership manager position at ButlerGast.

Lewis, who holds bachelor’s and

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May 2019

Alethea Lewis

master’s degrees in psychology (and a second bachelor’s in adult development), said she knew she could use her background to connect with people on various levels at the Y. “We were living in Omaha, but my husband was finishing his military service in California, so I was really interested in getting back out in the community,” she said. “The Y opened some doors for me, and I’ve made the most of them.”

Wearing so many hats at the Butler-Gast Y, Lewis prioritizes her responsibilities with lists of duties and goals that she updates regularly. She said it “keeps her on her game,” but she admitted the breadth of her role is both rewarding and challenging – as well as fun.

Alethea fully embraces the Y’s willingness to allow people to learn by doing, and she has the full support and confidence of Associate Executive Director Maceal Norvell and Executive Director Lindy Pfingsten.

Along with her own personal and professional connections to the Y, 5-year

old Kai is also heavily involved with activities there – swimming, playing youth sports and attending the YMCA Early Learning Center. Her older son, Cliff, is also an active member of the Y. As it was for her as a child, the YMCA remains a family affair for Alethea.

“I love what I do because my days are always different, and I look forward to not knowing what’s going to happen each day,” Lewis said. “I’ve never been someone who could do a repetitive job.

I need variety, and I definitely get that at the Y. There’s never a dull moment.

“And while my family enjoys the Y, the staff and members have become like family. I love the familiarity, and as an instructor and now membership director, I’ve always made it a point to make sure everyone feels included and welcome. I want to continue to be a change agent – building more awareness about what the Y does and can do for the community.”

To learn more about the Y’s impact on the community and find out how you can support their mission, visit metroymca.org/give.

O pen to m em bers & N on m em bers!

June - August • Weekly • K-7TH GRADES

SUMMER

Camps

M AY 18 , 2 0 1 9 10 A M - 2 P M

Day Camps include field trips, crafts,

swimming, sports, music, science and more!

FA M I LY F U N I N D O O R & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Premiere Camps in art, dance, musical theater, and pop culture!

sports Camps in basketball, soccer, cheer, and extreme!

Space is limited! Register Today!

Visit us online at

www.jccomaha.org

28210 W. Park Hwy., Ashland, NE 68003

2152465-01

VIEW OUR CAMP BROCHURE ONLINE!

333 S. 132nd St. | Omaha, NE 68154 | 402-334-6426

2148435-01

YOUR SUMMER ADVENTURE AWAITS Register NOW for YMCA Summer Camp!

Summer Day Camp • Specialty Camps • YMCA Camp Platte & more!

SIGN UP AT ANY YMCA LOCATION!

Visit metroymca.org to view our full 2019 Summer Camp Guide!

YMCA OF GREATER OMAHA • metroymca.org 2152581-01

27

SPONSORED FEATURE HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER

No summer slide Huntington can help your child return to school better than ever academically

M

any parents have heard the scary-but-true statistic that children who do not read over summer break can lose two to three months of reading achievement.

According to Reading Rockets’ review of 13 empirical studies on summer reading loss, over time, this can create a compounded achievement gap of 1.5 years before a child has even reached middle school.

The good news: you can curb the summer loss. With Huntington Learning Center, you can help your child strengthen that “reading muscle” and prevent the dreaded summer slide.

Huntington’s annual summer reading program – Reading Adventure – launched in 2007 with the intention of getting children excited to read over the summer. The program, which runs from May to August, is open to students from kindergarten through 12th grade.

Center Director Gwyn Morris says the program provides a fantastic opportunity for students to learn in a fun, stress-free environment.

“Summer is a good time for students to read for the pure enjoyment of it,” she said. “Our reading lists include many popular titles that are perfect for students of all reading abilities. When they go on family vacations, they can read while traveling because books are very mobile – either printed, on Kindles or whatever.

They are a great alternative to video games.”

Students choose from Huntington’s pre-selected book lists. They set goals, which helps with planning and time management, and write a quick report after reading each book.

Each student receives a reading

HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER

“passport” to record books as completed and to note what he or she learned and enjoyed about each book. Students are then recognized and rewarded for their reading accomplishments with a party at the end of the summer.

Huntington also offers summer tutoring, which helps teens studying high school math or writing or those seeking test prep for the ACT and SAT. With fewer day-to-day responsibilities and distractions during the summer, students can more easily prepare for the challenges of the new year.

“We see students make a lot of gains over summer because it’s a great time, free from other school classes, to catch up and move forward,” Morris said.

For students who experience classroom or test anxiety, Huntington can provide consistent practice, which helps them gain confidence. Following

an academic evaluation, Huntington puts together a learning plan that is individualized for each child rather than one comprehensive action proposed to all.

Students tutored by Huntington on average show improvement of 26 percent in reading comprehension, 19 percent in vocabulary and 20 percent in mathematics. So instead of falling behind, students actually can make gains.

“When they return to school, they start the year so much stronger because of the work they do during the summer months,” Morris said.

Best of all, students will have fun as they work toward achieving their goals.

For more information about Reading Adventure and Huntington Learning Center’s wide range of tutoring services, call 402-884-4407 or visit www. huntingtonhelps.com.

ABOUT HUNTINGTON Huntington is the tutoring and test prep leader. Its certified tutors provide individualized instruction in reading, phonics, writing, study skills, elementary and middle school math, algebra through calculus, chemistry and other sciences. Huntington offers prep for the SAT and ACT, as well as state and standardized exams. Founded in 1977, Huntington’s mission is to give every student the best education possible.

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May 2019

BE WELL MARJIE DUCEY

SECOND-GUESSING YOUR PARENTING? Focus on the adult you want your child to be

I

t can be hard to keep up with the Joneses when it comes to motherhood.

As you race from one activity to the next or come home exhausted after a day at work, it’s frustrating to watch that perfect mom in the carpool. The one that feeds her children only organic homemade food, dresses them perfectly at all times and seems to have everything under control.

Meanwhile, you have just fed your kids fast-food takeout for the third time that week or parked them in front of the TV one too many times.

There is a solution.

Focus on the adult you want to raise and stay on that path, says Dr. Jennifer Harsh, a medical family therapist and assistant professor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Forget about comparing yourself to the neighbor next door.

Maybe you wish for your child to be smart or caring or socially aware. What values and beliefs does that require?

“Figure out what your goal is and work your way back,’’ Harsh says. “Give them the skills to have that outcome.’’

Modify your approach so what you’re doing feels right for your child. It will help you handle those moments when you’re secondguessing yourself.

It’s a lot to think about, Harsh

says, so she offers these tips: » Look into parenting resources that will show you the way. One good source is the American Society of Pediatrics. “If you are a person who says, ‘I want my kid to grow up to be as physically healthy as possible; it’s important for them to eat right and exercise,’ go to places that give you information on nutrition,’’ Harsh says. » Don’t be too broad with your goals. If you say you want your child to have a nice life, and be happy and healthy, what does that really mean? “It’s just like if I want to lose weight,’’ Harsh says. “How am I going to do that? Set specific intentions.’’ » Don’t focus narrowly on wanting your child to be happy; it’s too fleeting. Instead, give them skills to handle their own emotions. “You want them to feel well and have the tools to help themselves when they are not feeling happy.’’ » If you want your child to set boundaries for their own wellbeing as they mature, model that for them. Set aside 30 minutes one night a week for conversation your significant other. Teach the kids that they must play games or keep themselves occupied during that time. » Volunteer if you want your child to grow up to be conscious of others’ needs. Let them see you

going to a soup kitchen or helping that elderly neighbor down the street with her shoveling and yard work. » Your goals might have to change as your child grows. They might have a different idea for their future as they mature. Talk about it. Tell them what has been important to you and ask what’s important to them. Then adjust your goals together. » Don’t set your goals too high; it can result in anxiety in your children. If you expect your kids to get an A in every class and they get a B, don’t act as if it’s the end of the world. “Extremely high standards aren’t possible for every kid,’’ Harsh says. “It’s not in line with raising a happy, functioning, quality member of society.’’ » Temper your expectations for yourself, too. Life happens.

A family member may die, you might be stressed at work, or you might have no time to cook. Give yourself some breathing room. If Johnny eats a bowl of French fries one night for dinner, it’s going to be OK. It’s just a normal part of parenthood.

“It doesn’t mean you are a bad person. It just means you are having a rough time right now,’’ Harsh says. “If you’re striving to be a perfect parent, your goal is not a good goal. What does that even mean and how is it attainable?’’

29

SPONSORED FEATURE THE ROSE THEATER

Young at heart Rose Theater is still inspiring children after 70 years

F

or a 70-year-old, The Rose Theater feels awfully young at heart.

From chaotic canines and cats in hats, seeing favorite characters burst to life from the pages of a beloved storybook at The Rose has become a rite of passage for children in the Omaha area. Ask anyone who grew up here, and you are likely to hear a story about the historic theater. A field trip staple and a must-do for young families, The Rose Theater has evolved into one of the leading children’s theaters in the country.

From its early days in 1949 as Omaha’s Junior Theatre, to its time as the Emmy Gifford Children’s Theater, to its current home at The Rose, the Omaha Theater Company has been dedicated to enriching the lives of children and families through live theater and arts education. This continues as the theater launches its 2019-20 season with plays and musicals that will inspire young people to find their voice and the strength and courage within themselves to change the world.

Audiences will enjoy a mix of old and new in the coming season, allowing parents to reminisce about their own childhood experiences under the theater’s copper domes.

Among the shows returning to The Rose stage is “Elf the Musical,” which will again feature Dan Chevalier as Buddy the Elf. Other revivals in the 2019-20 season include “Go, Dog. Go!,” “The Cat in the Hat,” “The Diary of Anne Frank,” “The Little Engine That Could” and “The Sound of Music.”

The Rose also will introduce families to new productions, including “Ella Enchanted,” “Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience,” “Corduroy” and “A Bucket of Blessings.”

In a highlight of the new season, The Rose will host a special appearance

by Backstreet Boy Howie Dorough (or Howie D, as he is known to his fans).

Dorough will debut a script that gives a semi-biographical account of his middle school years, his first forays into music and finding his voice. Dorough will star in the

30

May 2019

THE ROSE

“The Little Engine That Could” will be part of the Rose’s First Stage series, which is designed for very young audiences.

world-premiere production, with neverbefore-heard music written specifically for “Howie D: Back in the Day.” The Rose’s First Stage series is back with a twist. Designed specifically for very young audiences, the 2019-20 season will feature the regional debut of “A Bucket of Blessings” and the return of “The Little Engine That Could.” For the first time, families will be able to purchase a ticket package that includes the First Stage series. This option gives families four tickets to each of the two First Stage shows and four tickets to the mainstage production of “Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience.”

In addition, families have the opportunity to participate in two dance and drama classes, highlighting the educational offerings available at The Rose.

These nine shows are part of the main stage season: • “Go, Dog. Go!” • “The Cat in the Hat”

• • • • •

“Ella Enchanted” “Elf: The Musical” “Howie D: Back in the Day” “The Diary of Anne Frank” “Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience” • “Corduroy” • “The Sound of Music” Six shows (24 tickets total) are included with a Rose membership; prices start at $105 for a family of four. Non-members may purchase tickets for $20 each. The Rose’s two premium event shows, “Elf the Musical” and “The Sound of Music” are $22 to $27. Tickets to the special event, “Howie D: Back in the Day,” are $25. Members receive priority booking for all non-member events. See The Rose website, www.rosetheater.org, for more information.

Rose memberships are on sale now.

They may be purchased online or by calling The Rose Box Office at 402-3454849.

THE PARTY STARTS HERE! Come Celebrate Our

58th Anniversary

Grandpa Dee, Grandma Mamar,Tom Mangelsen, Berenice Mangelsen, David M. Mangelsen, Harold Mangelsen, Hal Mangelsen, Grandma Tony, Bill Mangelsen (deceased) & Grandpa Paul 215 2153805-01 53805-01 3 05-0 380 01

MAY 3RD - 5TH -SAVINGS THROUGHOUT THR HOUT THE STORE ALL WEEKEND LONG! Spend your

summer o n stage!

Many performance opportunities One-week & multi-week camps available Camps for ages 4-18, beginners to advanced

pe rfo rm ing art s cam ps & cla sse s act ing dra ma mu sica l the ate r

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31

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.

ORGANIZING BABY’S DOMAIN Diapers, keepsakes and all those adorable clothes

A

baby’s room is such a sweet and peaceful space. That is until the baby arrives.

Newborns demand a lot of attention, so you won’t have time to maintain a complicated system.

Here’s how to minimize the steps to get things done.

Changing table This is the work zone of a baby’s room. Your arms are going to be full and busy with the baby. You need to keep everything close and simple for your sanity and your baby’s safety. Necessities (diapers, wipes, clothes and maybe a toy) should be within arm’s reach. If you install shelves above the changing table, make sure they are secure and nothing dangerous or breakable sits

on them. Keep a laundry basket and a trash bin for soiled diapers nearby.

Memorabilia You are going to receive some precious gifts when the baby arrives. Designate a space to keep them together. This might be a basket on a shelf or a dresser. As you accumulate things, consider what the collection will look like in 20 years. What will still be significant? A handwritten note from a grandparent or sibling would be something to keep. Cards from acquaintances? Probably not. The fewer items you keep, the greater value each item will have as the years pass. You want the collection to feel like a treasure, not a junk box.

Clothes You will be told baby will need lots of changes of clothes due to leaky diapers. Reality: If you have full access to laundry facilities, all you really need are enough items to get you to the next laundry day.

If you’re doing laundry every day then fewer outfits will be needed. If you only buy outfits you really love, your baby will wear them out, and you’ll have less to maintain as baby grows. Clothes that are still good after your baby outgrows them can go in a basket in the closet. When the basket gets full, sort the handme-downs and donate the rest. Be picky about what you keep. If you didn’t put an item on your baby this go-around, you probably won’t put it on your next baby.

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32

May 2019

SMALL SWIMMERS

Big lessons Classes start weekly

88-degree pool

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Book Music and Lyrics by Tim Minchin.

M

June 7-30 TICKETS $22-$27 2 HOURS + INTERMISSION FOR ALL AGES Matilda is an exceptional child with an extraordinary imagination who learns to claim her destiny. A brilliant girl born into a…less brilliant family, Matilda gets sent away to school at the terrible Crunchem Hall, which is led by the mean former hammer-throwing champion Miss Trunchbull. Armed with good friends and a mentor named Miss Honey, Matilda starts a revolution to help herself and others “change their story.”

Time Magazine’s “Best Show of the Year.” Tony® Award winner. Featuring the hit songs “Naughty” and “When I Grow Up.” Filled with high-energy dance numbers and showcasing Omaha’s most talented youth, Matilda is a joyous spectacle that will inspire the whole family!

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TICKETS: (402) 345-4849 or www.rosetheater.org