December 2011 Family Spectrum

Briefly Young

& Healthy Always

Keeping Balance

explore the magic

of Christmas

Pr ov id i Ca ng re Sa t fe o a Ch nd ild L re ov n in g

with Tradition

www.NCHS.org

Jules will ride by Heroics inspired someday.

She feels the heart of a hero. it in her bones.

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saac entered this world with a complex scarred and damaged tissue was repaired, Juliana was three, trip down Imperfecta, often crippling condition, hearthen defect, resulting inaonly one and aa rare, patch positioned in his heart, a slide changed her life. was and designed an innovative combination of underfunctioning ventricle, theThere second directing blood flow to grow the pain, then X-rays that revealed surgeries and treatments. chamber all but missing. developed ventricle. multiple fractures in her vertebrae.

Now, five years later, Jules anticipates

In a revolutionary, new open-heart years Isaac that is ready Because of their global expertise in the dayTwo she can ridelater, the animals are to face all foes, surgery pioneered by cardiac specialists orthopedics, specialists at Children’s Hospital a caped with thecome. heart of a hero. her passion.

Shecrusader has no doubt it will at Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, & Medical Center diagnosed Osteogenesis Her doctors will make it so.

Visit more Visit ChildrensOmaha.org ChildrensOmaha.org for for more information on how we can help your child. information on how we can help your child.

For or For aa pediatrician, pediatrician, family family physician physician or pediatric pediatric specialist, specialist, call call 1.800.833.3100.

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Contact our Omaha representatives for affordable health insurance.

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editor’sletter

W

Volume 7 • Issue 4

hen my family is dancing around

the living room, decorating the tree to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christ-

mas is You,” then I know the Christmas season has begun. It started when my children were babies, and it continues to be a tradition at the Edwards house. Just hearing the song makes me long for hot chocolate and mistletoe. Christmastime is full of traditions. My family starts off Christmas Eve with an evening church service, then eat our way through a homemade spaghetti dinner, and end the night sprinkling reindeer food for the

Publisher • Todd Lemke Vice President • Greg Bruns Omaha Publications Editor • Linda Persigehl Family Spectrum Contributing Editor • Paige Edwards City Editor • Sandy Lemke Assistant Editor • Bailey Hemphill Art Director • John Gawley Graphic Designer • Katie Anderson Account Executives • Gwen Lemke, Gil Cohen, Greg Bruns, Stacey Penrod, Paige Edwards Sales Assistants • Vicki Voet, Alicia Smith Hollins

“special guest” who will arrive in the night. Those are just some of the things we do that, not only bring back great Christmas memories, but also set the stage for the festivities to come.

For our holiday issue, Family Spectrum celebrates the legacy of Boys Town. They are most widely known for the help they provide to struggling children, but they also do so much more for families and the community. From Pediatrics to Clinical Services, National Research Hospital to National Hotline—Boys Town does it all. Family Savings is an exciting feature this month, in which we’ve handpicked some great advertisers to share savings with you. Our Teen Voices have unique experiences and adorable photos from Christmas past to share. And make sure you check out The National Safety Council’s article on Toy Safety before making those holiday purchases!

With all the busyness of the holidays, make sure you stop and enjoy the reason for the season by giving those around you an extra hug.

Happy Holidays!

Paige Paige Edwards, Contributing Editor, Family Spectrum paige@omahapublications.com

On the Cover

Operations • Tyler Lemke Accounting • Jim Heitz Warehouse Distribution Manager • Mike Brewer Principal Photography • minorwhite studios, inc Bill Sitzmann, Scott Drickey Advertising • Omaha Publications, (402) 884-2000 Editorial Comments • Paige Edwards, paige@omahapublications.com Please send contributions to bailey@omahapublications.com Original contributions become the property of Omaha Publications. Contributions cannot be acknowledged or returned.

The information contained within Family Spectrum is for informational purposes only. It is not intended and should not be used to take the place of seeking professional advice, counsel or assistance. Omaha Publications makes no endorsement of and is not responsible for contributors or advertising herein. If you have concerns or questions related to your health, consult with you physician. Family Spectrum is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission of Omaha Publications, 402.884.2000.

Owned and managed by Omaha Magazine, LTD

Two Brother’s Statue at the Village of Boys Town. A big thanks to Boys Town for this issue’s cover story photos.

live.love.grow 4 • editor’sletter

Family Spectrum Magazine • • • • December 2011

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CONTENTS december 2011

coverfeature

21

21 Boys Town: A Legacy of Care

for Children, Families, and the Community

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8

an overview of rsv briefly young & healthy always family spectrum’s family success story what’s on your mind? turn your kids into givers this holiday season keeping balance with tradition

17

atschool 17 18 19 20

teen voices: christmas spirit family spectrum’s teacher of the month young hero: charlie smith family spectrum’s writer’s corner

atplay 21

boys town: a legacy of care for children, families, and the community

26 27

toy safety

28

mother of the year stories: i am mama bear, hear me roar on the go: explore the magic of christmas

30

26

december 2011 event calendar

• readonlinenow.com December 2011 • • • •

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Grace. Adopted through the Nebraska Children’s Home Society in 2008.

NCHS remains the only agency in the U.S. that has not charged fees for adoption for 118 years.

We rely on the generosity of individuals like you to help us continue this tradition.

Please give a gift today to support the programs and many children and families served by the Nebraska Children’s Home Society.

Give online at www.nchs.org/donate-now Nebraska Children’s Home Society pregnancy services * parenting education & support * adoption * foster care teen & young family services * early childhood education

We’re here to help. Caring. Confidential. Statewide.

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avoidable is the period of viral shedding, which may occur 1 to 2 days before symptoms become apparent, and last as long as two weeks.

What is the treatment of RSV? Fortunately, most cases of RSV are mild and require no specific treatment. Antibiotics are not used because RSV is a virus and antibiotics are only effective against bacteria. Parents can help their child feel more comfortable at home by: • Running a cool-mist humidifier • Using nasal saline drops and a bulb syringe • Giving their child plenty of fluids When do you call the doctor?

Contact your pediatrician if you notice: • Your child has very rapid breathing (more than • 60 breaths in a minute) or difficulty breathing • Your child has had no wet diaper in an 8-hour period • Your child is extremely tired or hard to wake up • You cannot console your child

An Overview of RSV

R

espiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of respiratory illnesses in young children. In infants, the illness generally begins with a runny nose, fever and cough, and may progress to difficulty breathing and wheezing. In some children, it may only produce symptoms of a common cold, such as a runny nose and cough. The RSV virus can also cause ear infections, eye redness and croup.

RSV infection is quite common between late fall and early spring, and peaks in the month of February.

Once a child is exposed to RSV, the time until he or she shows symptoms is usually 3 to 5 days. Most children recover from the illness in 8 to 21 days.

Who’s at Risk?

Kids who are at higher risk of developing a serious RSV infection requiring hospitalization include: • premature infants and infants less than 6 weeks of age • infants with congenital heart disease or chronic lung conditions • infants with an immunodeficiency • children exposed to passive cigarette smoke • children who attend a daycare setting • children with older siblings in the home

How is RSV prevented?

Frequent handwashing can go a long way toward preventing RSV from spreading around a household. It is also important to keep school-age children with a cold away from younger siblings, especially infants.

For high-risk infants, the prevention of serious RSV-related respiratory disease is possible with an injection of medication called Synagis. This injection consists of RSV antibodies that can help fight the virus.

Although kids with RSV develop some antibodies to the virus, most are susceptible again by the SPECTRUM next annual outbreak.

family

RSV is highly contagious. It can spread from person to person or may be spread by touching contaminated surfaces such as a countertop or doorknob. Another factor making the spread of RSV almost un-

Kelli J. Shidler, M.D., Boys Town Pediatrics

• readonlinenow.com December 2011 • • • •

Kel li J. Shidler, M.D .

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because you are afraid no one else will have you? Are you choosing that career path because that’s what all of your friends are doing? Are you moving to another state to get away from something, or because you really want to live there?

Wellness means so much more than keeping physically healthy. Yes, it will be much, much easier to maintain that young, healthy body than be forced to repair years of neglect later.

It really does matter if you exercise regularly and make healthy food choices. You will look and feel better, not just now but also 10, 20 years from now.

As Deborah Ann said, “You will never regret it...”

Briefly Young & Healthy Always

“

Start taking care of yourself when you are young and you’ll never regret it later. No matter how much you regret that last mile on the treadmill now.

”

I

— Deborah Ann Woll

ran across this quote in a magazine recently. I was struck by the simplicity of its wisdom.

I also wished that someone had forced me to think about this when I was a young adult.

I know many of you are thinking, well…duh. But I know too well what it is like to be 20…and then 30…and then busy…and suddenly all of the times that you thought to yourself “Oh, I’ll get to that tomorrow” really begin to add up. We think we’ll always be 29.

Deborah Ann Woll, by the way, is a lovely young American actress. While her quote obviously addresses physical health, I was struck by how her statement applies to the entire spectrum of wellness: physical, yes—but also emotional, mental, spiritual, even financial.

The decisions (or non-decisions) that you make in your 20s and 30s will deeply impact your quality of life when you do hit 50, 60 and beyond. While I’m the first one to advocate new beginnings and starting over, and so on—there are also obvious benefits making the best decisions the first go round. Where to go to college?

Which career to pursue? Who to marry? Where to live?

Too many people make these big, life-altering decisions from an unhealthy place. The statistics from first-time marriage alone are enough to give pause to even the most die-hard romantic. Are you marrying that person Bev Carl son

Same thing with your emotional and mental wellness.

Did you have a happy childhood? Do you have a good support system and someone you can talk with about your choices? Or are you operating from a traumatic past, bad relationships, or instability? It is absolutely crucial that you be real with yourself and recognize the benefit of clearing the air before making decisions that will impact the rest of your life.

No one just “gets over” childhood trauma like abuse or family upheaval. You may think you are showing strength and courage by stuffing it and moving on, but you are doing yourself no favors.

Nor are you doing the right thing for a future marriage partner, future children, or a future employer by continuing to carry that baggage.

It’s important to recognize that you have been in survival mode—and you probably need support to pull things into proper perspective. And perhaps the kindest and most loving thing you can ever do for a friend or family member is to encourage them to seek help if you suspect they need it.

While it’s never too late to heal, the benefits of doing so before you make lifelong commitments is absolutely priceless. Time with a professional counselor—an objective voice—can be the difference in giving you a clear and confident view of yourself and what you really want your future to SPECTRUM look like.

family

By: Bev Carlson, APR, Director of Public Relations, Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska

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As we begin to think about the 2011 holidays, we can’t help but imagine all the wonderful food that comes with this time of year. When it comes time for friends and family to gather ‘round your table, our holiday recipes will delight their senses!

Give a gift to your guests and serve beef this holiday season!

Mini Meatballs with Apricot Dipping Sauce Total Recipe Time: 25-30 minutes Makes: 36 mini meatballs

1 lb ground beef (96% lean) ¼ cup seasoned dry bread crumbs 2 egg whites or 1 egg, beaten 2 Tbsp water ¼ tsp salt

1

/8 tsp pepper

Sauce ¾ c apricot preserves ¾ c barbecue sauce 2 Tbsp Dijon-style mustard

1. Heat oven to 400°F. Combine ground beef, bread

crumbs, egg whites, water, salt and pepper in large bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Shape into thirtysix 1-1/4-inch meatballs. Place on rack in broiler pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Bake in 400°F oven 15 to 17 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, heat preserves, barbecue sauce and mustard in medium saucepan over medium heat.

Bring to a boil; reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally or until sauce thickens slightly.

3. Add cooked meatballs and continue to cook 2 to 3 minutes or until meatballs are heated through, stirring occasionally. Serve or keep warm in slow cooker.

Appetizers like Mini Meatballs with Apricot Dipping Sauce will wow your guests and start the event off right! For other holiday recipes, visit beefitswhatsfordinner.com

BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com • readonlinenow.com December 2011 • • • •

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athome Written by: Bailey Hemphill

Family Success Story The Gambles

M

eet the Gambles—Matt and Amy, and their son Tanner of Millard! The family also has a seven-year-old Old English Bulldog named Harley, who is the original baby of the family.

Matt and Amy are celebrating 14 years together. Amy believes their marriage has worked because they both have Christian values, and they both understand the importance of spending time apart every now and then. “Matt goes out and does his thing, I do my thing, we do things together, we do things as a family…as a mother, I understand the necessity for time away,” she says. She also thinks she and Matt work well together because they have similar views on parenting. “When we were waiting for Tanner, we were waiting and waiting, and we both had ideas of how child-rearing was going to be…like ‘Oh, my child would never do that!’” she laughs.

The Gambles tried to have kids for about five years without success. Amy had polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which complicated their attempts at getting pregnant. “After fertility treatments and shots, I just couldn’t handle it anymore,” she explains.

Although their emotions were running high, Matt and Amy knew they had another option.

“I had a dream where I wasn’t going to be able to have kids, and I knew I had to adopt,” Amy says. “It was weird, but cool.” After helping steer Matt in the direction of adoption, they threw themselves into research, looking into both international agencies and those in the U.S., until they stumbled onto a local adoption center—the Nebraska Children’s Home. “My grandparents actually took care of foster kids from the Children’s Home, so that’s why we chose them,” she says. It took a year and six months for the Gambles’ adoption process, and it looked like they would have to wait a while longer before an adoption could go through.

But on December 22, 2009, the Gambles got the call. They had a son.

Tanner was born in North Platte and placed in foster care in McCook, Neb., so the Gambles needed to drive out to McCook to

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From left: Amy, Matt and Tanner

pick him up. “I had a hysterectomy scheduled for the 29th, so Matt and I were saying, ‘Should we do this? Should we not do this?’” says Amy. They got everything ready and were about to head out to pick up Tanner when they talked to the caseworker out in North Platte. “She told us not to come out because there was a bad ice storm; one of the worst that they’d seen in years, actually.” Matt and Amy thought about chancing it but decided it was better to wait out the storm.

Amy told her boss, Ron Carson, CEO of Carson Wealth Management Group and founder of Peak Advisor Alliance, about their troubles going to pick up their son.

“He said, ‘Wow, that’s great story!’” she laughs. And on a miraculous Christmas Eve morning, Carson called Amy to inform her that there was a break in the weather.

Carson, who owns his own private jet, offered to personally fly both Matt and Amy out to McCook to get Tanner. Naturally, they took the offer and went to pick up their son with Carson at the yoke. “[Our families] were so overjoyed about Tanner—Matt’s parents especially because they don’t have any other grandchildren. You could see in their eyes that they had been waiting for years and years,” says Amy, adding that the family loves to spoil her son.

“Without adoption, we would not have a family. Where would Tanner be? It’s great to have that bond with a child, even though he might not be your own. But he’s still mine. We wouldn’t be as happy as we are today without him,” she says. “Nebraska Children’s Home is a great team of people. If we decide to have more children, we would definitely go back through them!”

Amy believes her family is a success for many reasons. “My family and I are strong believers in Christ. We are passionate about spending time together and making the most out of life. We talk out our problems and hold on for the rollercoaster that God puts in front of us…We have a great support system with our family and friends.

SPECTRUM Without them, we would not be where we are today.”

family

• • • • December 2011

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familySAVINGS

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• readonlinenow.com December 2011 • • • •

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content • 11

Check with your phone company to learn about available parental control features. You may be able to monitor who your kids are communicating with as well as when they are using their phones. Start with limiting the numbers the phone is able to call and receive. Gradually increase privileges as long as rules are followed. Although teens primarily communicate via text message, texting (as well as internet access) is still a privilege they must be able to use responsibly.

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O

Call 402-850-5551 to learn more about the Metro’s premier, award-winning martial arts program, led by Kukkiwon Licensed Master Instructor John Scott Stevens!

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Where Education Makes Sense We offer a unique environment for the adolescent.

Parents often express frustration regarding their teens’ nightly phone use while teens argue that they use their phones for alarm clocks so they need to keep them overnight. Solve both problems by getting actual alarm clocks and designating a nightly check-in time for phones.

Items such as the iPod Touch are also able to text and connect to the internet, so check these in as well.

De b Fu lle r

K W O N

Omaha Elite Taekwondo is the #1 location for anyone and everyone wanting to get healthy and fit, develop discipline, find friendships, build self confidence, earn respect, learn cool stuff and have fun ALL IN ONE place.

Teach your kids that, ultimately, the phone is yours. You need to know any set passwords, and you have the right to check texts, call history, and pictures at any time. Respecting your kids’ privacy is important, so this isn’t necessarily something to do daily, nor is it permission to snoop carte blanche. Also remember that you have the authority to keep your kids’ cell phones if your guidelines are not being followed.

This is definitely not an exhaustive list of guidelines for cell phone use. As you establish your family’s rules, keep in mind that loosening restrictions is much easSPECTRUM ier then adding them.

•

There isn’t one “right” time to give kids a cell phone, nor is there one “right” set of rules. Maturity and actual need should be taken into account when discussing timing, as well as your kids’ levels of responsibility.

E

I

TE

D

uring the holiday season, cell phone is found on wish lists from elementary-age to teens. No matter how young or old the phone recipient, rules and expectations need to be established from day one to keep kids safe and prevent future phone battles.

HA EL

T A

What’s on Your Mind?

Welcoming Cell Phones into the Family

ONE FOR ALL!

A

D

Submitted by: Deb Fuller, Mental Health Therapist, Real Life Counseling | Photo by: Katie Anderson

• OM

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• • • • • • • •

MISP

851 N. 74th St. Omaha, NE 68114 402.614.9074

Student-Led Community Meetings Entrepreneurship Internships Community Projects Personal Development Philosophy Ethics & Physics Intergenerational Studies

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MISP does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, or age in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment.

• • • • December 2011

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savor the moment. Focus on the generosity and kindness of the giver and talk about how the child will benefit from the gift, rather than how much the item cost or what it looks like. Insist that your child thank the giver verbally and make sure your kids write thankyou notes.

Help your children make a list of gifts they are going to give. Contain the “gimme syndrome” by putting limits on the number of items kids can put on their holiday wish lists and how often they can add to or change the lists. Then, turn their attention (and yours) to concentrating on gifts they want to give to others. Encourage your kids to create homemade gifts as well as give gifts of service (reading to a sibling, spending time helping grandparents with household chores, etc.).

Turn Your Kids Into Givers This Holiday Season

I

t’s the most wonderful time of the year! Heartwarming television specials depict families gathered together to share traditions and make memories – in a perfect world.

Meanwhile, back in reality, the holidays often find moms and dads tired and in debt.

Kids, under the spell of advertisers, transform into little (or not-so-little) surly beasts who want everything they see.

How can you restore peace to your family so everyone can enjoy the holiday season?

Foster gratitude and a spirit of giving in your children. Grateful and giving kids are much happier than grasping and envious ones. It’s never too early or too late to cultivate thankful hearts in our kids. To get started, here are some practical tips.

Make gratitude a core value of your family life. Take time to stop and count your blessings. When your children receive a gift, teach them to pause and

When your child gets something, have him or her give something away. Before the holiday season and gift-giving get too far underway, require that your children (and apply the same principle to yourself!) select gently used toys and clothes to donate to others. Remind your children that people are in need every day.

Involve your children in volunteer and service activity. Look for opportunities to engage in community service as a family. Many churches and other organizations sponsor “giving trees” during the holidays. Involve your children in choosing, wrapping, and delivering the items you will donate. Afterwards, take time to discuss with your children what they learned from their experience. Ask them to come up with additional ideas for service to others.

Remember, although you can’t control the larger cultural environment, you can give your children the gift of joy and gratitude this holiday SPECTRUM season.

family

Laura Bu dden

be rg

Laura Buddenberg, Boys Town Youth Care Training and Evaluation

parenting.org from

• readonlinenow.com December 2011 • • • •

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having a “white elephant” gift exchange. Your traditions can be formal or informal, planned or spontaneous, and even found in your everyday routines. Here are a few examples that could last throughout the year: sandwich night, Taco Tuesday, game night, and bedtime songs.

Ties past to present and builds connections to your heritage. I love being part Norwegian. One of our traditions is to make lefsa. My sisters and I gather together every year to make this delicious treat and then we, of course, indulge in our creation.

Identity and boundaries are formed. When you organize your traditions, you give everyone a role or responsibility. This helps the kids feel useful. Remember, your family traditions become a part of who they are.

OK to say “no” to other holiday celebrations that interfere with your family’s priorities. It’s also OK to change a tradition that isn’t working or stop doing it. There’s no need to feel guilty!

From left: Sam and Josh Taylor with Santa

No right or wrong way to celebrate. All families are unique. Make your family traditions personal based on your set of beliefs, priorities, and situation.

Keeping Balance with Tradition

H

ow do we keep our balance over the holidays? I can tell you in one word: TRADITION (play music from “Fiddler on the Roof” while reading!).

Together time with loved ones is key. Traditions build unity and bond family members together, giving us a feeling of acceptance and security, and a sense of belonging to something bigger.

Regardless of the changes life brings, traditions are consistent and can be counted on. They provide a sense of stability, trust, and predictability. A good example is our family tradition to get our Christmas tree and decorate it the weekend after Thanksgiving while drinking hot chocolate and listening to our favorite holiday CDs. As parents, we “set the stage” and the mood! Make it fun and simple. It’s our job to pass down the beliefs and customs our families have maintained through the years.

Strong memories are priceless. Cherish them because they have lasting effects. Some of the best ways to honor the memories are to talk about them, look at photo albums or home videos, and share them with others.

familySPECTRUM

***After the holiday traditions have come and gone, we would be happy to help you put away/ organize your Christmas decorations, or go through those toys/closets to make room for all the new gifts! Contact info: Sheila Taylor or Amy Tokos at www.freshlyorganized.com

Do what you love and what works for your family. Make decisions based on time, talents, money, priorities, and values. It‘s always good to ask family members what they enjoy and look forward to most.

Focus on these traditions and forget the rest.

Ideas? Here are a few: baking (peanut butter balls, anyone?), decorating cookies, creating special holiday meals, singing Christmas carols, watching holiday movies, “adopting a family” and buying gifts from their wish list, doing community service together, attending holiday programs, visiting Santa, and by: Sheila Taylor, Organizer

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Sh eil a Tayl or

• • • • December 2011

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Holiday Gift Guide

s ’ m u r t c e al p S y u l i n m n Fa 2nd A T

he holidays are here,

and in keeping with

the spirit of the season, Family Spectrum presents a holiday gift guide.

The gift guide is supported by local advertisers and meant to give you a whole host of ideas for friends and family on your holiday shopping list.

l e v a r T f o t f Give the Gi

Besides being available in print, the guide gift is also accessible online at www.readonlinenow. com, where the web links provide a direct click thru to the featured item or business. In a retail world increasingly driven by online shopping, we hope you

Give the gift of travel from Travel and Transport Vacations for your next special occasion or holiday! Gift cards can be bought in various monetary denominations and can be used for airline tickets, tour & cruise packages, car and hotel packages and so much more.

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2nd annual gift guide, and wish you a very happy holiday.

- Family Spectrum Staff • readonlinenow.com December 2011 • • • •

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Holiday Gift Guide

s ’ m u r t c e al p S y u l i n m n Fa 2nd A

PICKS 2011

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• • • • December 2011

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atschool Written by: Connor and Halston

Connor, 20 months

T

“‘

Halston, 4 years

Teen Voice: He Said/She Said Christmas Spirit

was the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.”

This poem is wrong. I would always stay up and stir as late as possible, and strain my ears to listen for the hopeful sound of sleigh bells. This was the tradition I stuck to for every single Christmas Eve for as long as I can remember. I only fell asleep after I passed out from complete exhaustion of anticipation.

The next morning always consisted of my parents waking up early and making sure that the presents were safely tucked underneath the tree. Then they made us sit at the top of the stairs for a few minutes and wait until pictures were take—and that made the time slow down to a crawl. When that torture ended, both my sister and I sprinted down the stairs and started tearing into the gifts that awaited us. We always started with the smaller presents and the stockings, but once we finished with those, my parents told us to slow down a bit and let them videotape. This used to make me mad because I didn’t want to stop and take a breath, I wanted to storm through every last gift.

When I look back on all of the Christmas memories, presents have changed now that I am older. They used to be plentiful but tended to be on the less-expensive side. Now the presents are usually more expensive, but there are less of them.

Now that I discussed the monetary value of Christmas, and I may have sounded a tad bit selfish, I really want to emphasize the true meaning of Christmas to me. Christmas really means spending time with family and friends.

No amount of presents can compare to the joy of being with ones you love and celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ… but presents are really cool, too.

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• readonlinenow.com December 2011 • • • •

C onnor

I

t’s that wonderful time of the year again. Everyone bust out the radios with the blasting Christmas music while sipping on some steaming hot chocolate—sitting near the fireplace, of course.

As a kid, I remember scribbling out a Christmas list months prior to the actual holiday itself. That’s really all there was when you’re little. Presents, presents, and more presents!

What could possibly be better than that? It was back when I would stay up all night waiting around for Santa Claus to make his grand appearance; although, I would always fall asleep. I didn’t realize until I was older what Christmas is really about.

No one can stroll into a grocery store without hearing the ringing of the bells for the Salvation Army. During the holidays, there are a lot more donations going on for others in need, whether it be warm clothes or food. Christmas and the holidays are really about generosity. It’s a time to realize how fortunate you are and share your fortune with others. That’s really what everyone is talking about when they say “Christmas Spirit.”

I adore the holidays. It’s a time of year that you really get to see the best in people.

Everyone is giving and focused on helping out others. If only it could be this way all the time! My mom and I are planning on doing some volunteer work and giving back to the community this year. Standing out in freezing temperatures is completely worth the cause of helping out those in need.

I’m very excited for the holidays. Each year, I learn something new that has to do with my family’s Christmas traditions, whether it be the family tree or planning the traditional holiday meal. Another thing I cannot wait for is the snow, of course! Lots of snow, too—I welcome snow days. I believe that snow also adds to the Christmas Spirit. What would we do without a white Christmas?

In the end, Christmas is more than snow, hot chocolate, and Santa Claus. It’s about generosity and helping those who may not be as lucky as us. The warmth of Christmas isn’t the space heaters or fireplaces; it’s within our large, giving hearts. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas.

familySPECTRUM

H a ls to n

live•love•grow

atschool • 17

atschool Nominated by: Sydney, former student

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18 • atschool

Amy Schwarting

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my Schwarting graduated from University of Nebraska at Lincoln with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education with an emphasis in science.

She has been teaching for 18 years, spending 12 years teaching a variety of fifth through eighth grades at Trinity Lutheran Schools in Fremont before coming to Concordia Academy in 2003.

She has taught technology, third grade, and currently teaches sixth grade, and fifth/sixth grade science. Amy has been married to her husband Chad for 21 years. She has three kids—Spencer, who is a freshman at Creighton University; Tanner, who is a freshman at Concordia Jr./Sr. High School; and Carley, who is a sixth grader at Concordia Academy. Her family attends King of Kings Lutheran Church, and Amy says they “love it there!” Amy’s hobbies include gardening, reading, and playing volleyball. She also loves spending time with her family and attending the kids’ activities and sporting events.

“She is a lot of fun, and even has a bathtub in her classroom. She is an excellent role model, especially for girls,” says former student Sydney.

familySPECTRUM • • • • December 2011

familyspectrum •

atschool Written by: Bailey Hemphill | Photo by: Rachel Stecker

To communicate and learn, Charlie uses a DynaVox. Charlie can choose pictures on the DynaVox, which then speaks the word aloud, acting as his voice. “Charlie likes the DynaVox, and like many four-year-olds, always seems to find and choose the funny pictures—like the picture of the potty or a silly face,” says Aimee.

“Charlie especially loves his teachers, and in fact hugs them after school each day. [He] also has a speech language pathologist who works with him several days a week to help him speak and use signs and pictures to communicate.”

Charlie has two older sisters, Ariel and Ava, of whom he is protective. “He gives his sisters hugs and kisses when they are sad. [And they] know enough sign language to communicate with him, and they use pictures to teach him things.” He also has two dogs, Lady and Rizzo. “Charlie likes to try to take Rizzo for walks in the house,” Aimee says, adding that he’ll put the dog leash around one of his Lightning McQueen cars.

Young Hero: Charlie Smith

F

our-year old Charlie Smith was born with a hearing impairment. Although he is not entirely deaf, he cannot hear as well as most people. Charlie has to wear hearing aids to help him hear, but there are still sounds that the hearing aids cannot amplify for him—things such as blowing leaves or chirping birds.

In addition to his hearing impairment, Charlie has low muscle tone, which means that he doesn’t have a lot of resistance or strength in his muscles. Charlie’s mouth and hands lack the strength that would normally allow him to communicate through speech and sign language. “It’s difficult for Charlie to communicate, even more so than other children his age,” says his mother, Aimee. But Charlie is not muted by his physical and hearing impairments.

Charlie attends preschool at the Lied Learning and Technology Center, which is part of Boys Town National Research Hospital, with other children who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. The preschool has special teachers who teach the children to communicate through different means catered to their specific impairments. Like most teachers, they speak to the preschoolers using their voices; however, they also communicate using sign language and pictures. By using all three means, they incorporate “total communication.”

Since Charlie has difficulty hearing and has low muscle tone, he faces more challenges than a child without impairments—but he does so with a smile. “From a very young age, Charlie wanted to do things for himself, and through persistence and creativity, found a way to do those things for himself,” Aimee says. She tells the story of when Charlie wanted to use his dad’s iPhone like his sisters, and struggled for a while before eventually figuring out that he could hold his pointer finger with his other hand to give him enough stability to use the touch screen. “There was no other option than to keep trying until he accomplished what he wanted, which was to press the correct button so he could play Angry Birds!”

Aimee believes Charlie is a good role model and a hero, not just for other kids but for adults as well. “Charlie is loving and goodnatured. [He] brings joy to almost everyone he meets because he loves to laugh and frequently has a smile on his face. He is focused and persistent when he wants to learn or do something by himself, which is most of the time these days…He doesn’t get disappointed when he cannot do things that other people can do; rather, he innately finds the fun in doing what he can do.”

“Charlie is special just as every kid is special,” she says. “There is SPECTRUM no one else like him.”

family

Family Spectrum and Omaha Storm Chasers would like to honor your Young Hero. Send nominations to Bailey@OmahaPublications.com.

• readonlinenow.com December 2011 • • • •

live•love•grow

atschool • 19

atschool

Family Spectrum’s Writer’s Corner

Proudly Presented by:

London

London, 8, attends Mockingbird Elementary School in Ralston.

He has one older brother.

8702 Pacific St., Countryside Village (402) 392–2877 www.bookwormomaha.com

L o ndo n

My Ribs

by London Ribs keep my heart safe.

Ribs are like the ones at a BBQ. Ribs are like a jail cell for my heart, but my heart did nothing wrong.

My ribs have been through a lot.

I’m glad I have strong ribs.

ATTENTION YOUNG WRITERS! Submit your original short stories and/or poems to Bailey@OmahaPublications.com, and we may choose YOURS to feature in our next issue! Submission of a story or poem automatically gives Family Spectrum publishing rights to publish in whole or in part. Family Spectrum will notify writers of intent of use prior to publishing.

Family Spectrum Magazine

he Durham Museum invites you to “experience the wonder” this year during Christmas at Union Station. This beautiful holiday tradition began in the 1930s when Union Pacic would decorate and display large evergreens from the Pacic Northwest for Union Station travelers to enjoy. Today, this cherished tradition continues with the region’s largest indoor Christmas tree and an exceptional line-up of family-friendly events.

Tree Lighting Ceremony Nov. 25, 4-7PM

Holiday Concert Series Dec. 3 & 4, 10 & 11, 17 & 18

Ethnic Holiday Festival Dec. 2, 5-9PM

The Durham’s Noon Year’s Eve Celebration Dec. 31, 10AM-1PM

Family Nights with Santa Dec. 6, 13 & 20, 5-8PM

Visit www.DurhamMuseum.org for event details including the dates and times when Santa will visit the museum.

Christmas at Union Station is presented by ConAgra Foods. Holiday programming sponsored by the On Track Guild, Pinnacle Bank, and ConAgra Foods. Media support provided by KETV. Special thanks to Union Pacic, Omaha Public Power District, and Mangelsen’s.

20 • atschool

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• • • • December 2011

familyspectrum •

Boys Town: A Legacy of Care for Children, Families, and the Community

Written by: Bailey Hemphill | Compiled by: Boys Town

Compassionate Beginnings n 1913, a young Irish immigrant by the name of Father Edward Flanagan came to Omaha to serve as a priest at St. Patrick’s parish. Discouraged by the number of homeless men he witnessed living on the Omaha streets, Father Flanagan opened a series of “Working Men’s Hotels” where men could live and get help finding a job. Although he served 40,000 in the process, Father Flanagan realized that he was not changing their underlying problems. After conducting a study of 2,000 men, he decided his work should begin with homeless boys.

I

At the turn of the century in Omaha, groups of homeless and abandoned boys lived along the Missouri River bank and in the warehouses of the Old Market area, and soon enough began to visit Flanagan’s homeless men’s shelters for shelter and warm meals. In late 1917, Father Flanagan gathered a group of like-minded Omahans and proposed the creation of a home for these boys. After borrowing $90, Father Flanagan opened a revolutionary home where all children were welcome regardless of their race or religion and could live as a family with no fences or bars on the windows. Given love, guidance, and an education, the boys could then become productive citizens.

Many people laughed at Father Flanagan, saying that the home would fail and close within a year; but by the spring, 100 boys were living in the home. A few years later, • readonlinenow.com December 2011 • • • •

Father Flanagan purchased Overlook Farm on the outskirts of the city and moved his home there, where it grew to include a school, dormitories, and administration buildings. In 1936, the Village of Boys Town became an official village in Nebraska. Over the years, Boys Town doubled in population, gained solid financial footing, and expanded educational, vocational, athletic, and arts opportunities for its residents. Eventually, the innovative Family Home Program replaced the dormitories with family-style homes, and girls soon began coming to Boys Town for help.

News of Father Flanagan’s work spread worldwide. After World War II, President Truman asked Flanagan to take his message to the world. He traveled the globe, visiting war orphans, and advising government leaders on how to care for displaced children. Although Father Flanagan died in 1948, his work at Boys Town—which he called “God’s Work”—continues. “Father Flanagan’s simple dream to make the world a better place for children thrives because people still believe that every child deserves to be valued and loved, and live a healthy, positive life,” says Tom Lynch, Director of Boys Town Hall of History.

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atplay • 21

atplay Here Comes santa Claus

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Page 21: Dowd Memorial Chapel of Immaculate Conception dusted with snow.

Top: Father Flanagan with boys Christmas morning, 1946.

Middle: Boys receiving their gifts Christmas morning, 1950.

Bottom: Father Flanagan poses with boys by tree.

• • • • December 2011

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Above: Father Steven E. Boes and Santa with young boy.

Boys Town Today From the time it was founded, Boys Town has been a national leader in the care and treatment of children. As one of the largest non-profit, nonsectarian child and family care organizations in the country, Boys Town provides compassionate, research-proven treatment for behavioral, emotional, and physical problems.

Each year, Boys Town touches the lives of 1.6 million people, including the direct care of nearly 121,000 children and families. Under the current leadership of Father Steven E. Boes, Boys Town’s focus is on implementing unique Integrated Continuum of Care, which provides a tightly integrated spectrum of research-proven services based on the consistent delivery of the Boys Town Model.

The Village of Boys Town in Nebraska remains the national headquarters for Boys Town and is the research, program development, and administrative center of the organization. Boys Town’s outreach is national in scope, with treatment and care programs at more than a dozen sites across the country.

Even more children and families receive benefits through the training and assistance Boys Town offers to hundreds of organizations, including schools and other youth care organizations.

The Boys Town National Research Hospital opened in 1977, and since then has developed into an internationally recognized leader in the treatment of childhood deafness, speech problems, visual impairment, and related communication disorders. Its research programs seek improved diagnostic and treatment techniques for young children, and it is a world leader in research on Usher syndrome. The Boys Town National Helpline, which opened in 1989, has handled more than 8 million calls and provides assistance to children and parents 24/7, year-round.

Statistics from the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services (2009) show that the need for more effective child and family care is great. Two-thirds of American youth deal with at least one major childhood trauma such as physical or sexual abuse, emotional or physical neglect, domestic violence, substance abuse, separation or divorce, a parent in jail, or mental illness.

Boys Town kids battle serious problems. Prior to entering a Boys Town residential program, 51 percent of youth have aggression problems, 42 percent have been physically and/or sexually abused, neglected, or abandoned; 64 percent experienced school problems; 47 percent have substance abuse • readonlinenow.com December 2011 • • • •

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atplay • 23

atplay Thank you for your support of Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska.

Your gift is making a difference in the lives of children and families everY daY.

We know you can’t see it, but we wish you could. We can see it in their eyes: a traumatized soldier finally at peace – an abused and neglected child thriving in her new, adoptive family – a young mother gaining the confidence to parent with love. Thousands of lives changed every year simply because you cared enough to help.

You have created a future of hope.

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Boys Town knows how great the need is for compassionate and effective care for today’s at-risk youth. Every year, hundreds of thousands of children are abused and neglected. Like numbers suffer emotional or behavioral disorders, leaving parents confused and frustrated. Every day, nationwide programs at Boys Town reaches out to help those who are most in need.

Boys Town has been saving children and healing families for more than 90 years for two main reasons: They believe that inherent potential exists in each child, no matter the circumstances; and they have the skill and knowledge to develop youth and family services that provide lasting, life-changing results.

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Christmas at Boys Town Christmas has always been a special time at Boys Town. Some residents have never experienced a “traditional” Christmas holiday with a tree, presents, and a good meal. While living at Boys Town, the residents are able to participate in the many traditions beyond holiday events, such as learning about religious aspects of the season and what it’s like to be a part of a family.

• • • • December 2011

familyspectrum •

atplay

Father Flanagan always made sure the homes at Boys Town had Christmas trees—sometimes decorating them himself—and that each child had presents to open on Christmas morning. Each year, Father Flanagan held a public midnight mass at Boys Town’s Dowd Memorial Chapel of the Immaculate Conception that gained so much popularity that it was broadcast live over the radio in the ‘30’s and on network television by the ‘50’s. Many of Flanagan’s Christmas traditions, including the midnight mass, remain at Boys Town.

Check out these free holiday events for the Omaha community going on at Boys Town: Christmas Stamps View Christmas-themed stamps and covers from around the world on display at the Leon Myers Stamp Center, located in the Visitors Center, from Nov. 1 through Dec. 31.

Gift of the Magi Come join the official beginning of the Christmas season at the Music Hall on Dec. 4 at 7pm.

Tree Lighting Carolers will welcome Santa Claus when he stops by to visit Boys Town children and families. Everyone joins in singing jolly holiday favorites as the Village Christmas tree is lighted to start the Christmas season on Dec. 4.

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Historic Crèche Displays See three Nativity scenes from Dec. 4 through Jan. 14. The main crèche adorns the historic Music Hall near the main entrance and can be seen for miles. This large Nativity scene was created by the late Donia Temple, a Holocaust survivor.

Other Nativities are located at Dowd Memorial Chapel and in front of the Village Christmas tree across from the Skip Palrang Field House.

Irish Christmas at Father Flanagan House The Father Flanagan House comes alive each holiday season with the sights and sounds of a traditional Irish Christmas celebration, this year from Dec. 5 to 11. From candles in the windows to Christmas quilts on the beds, the house captures the spirit of an Irish Christmas based upon faith and family.

For more information about Boys Town, visit SPECTRUM www.boystown.org.

family

• readonlinenow.com December 2011 • • • •

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atplay • 25

atplay

By Ann Freestone, National Safety Council | Photo by Katie Anderson

Toy Safety

W

hen recall after recall recently hit the headlines, parents learned that Dora, Elmo, and other toys contained paint with lead. The forgotten story, though, is the toys that pose the most common risks are ride-on toys and toys with small parts. Unfortunately, toys with known hazards that can cause strangulation, puncture wounds, lacerations, impact injuries, burns, and impalement make their way onto retail shelves year in and out.

In 2008, the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) reported 19 toy-related deaths with eight resulting from the use of ride-on toys and four children choking on or aspirating a toy. For all toy categories combined, an estimated 235,300 toy-related injuries were treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms. Of all the toy categories, ride-on toys cause the most injuries—26 percent of ER visits—and non-motorized scooters were the culprits in 83 percent of those cases.

Because children under age 3 tend to put everything in their mouths and have smaller upper airways, this group is at a greater risk of choking than older children. Small parts testers are available to determine if a toy poses a choking hazard for children, but a good rule of thumb is the part should be larger than a quarter.

26 • atplay live•love•grow

Buyer Beware World Against Toys Causing Harm (W.A.T.C.H.), a consumer advocacy group, gives these tips on what risks toys pose: • Toys with small parts could lead to asphyxiation, brain damage, or death.

• Toys with strings longer than six inches could strangle small children.

• Any crib or playpen toy that is strung across cribs or playpens could result in strangulation injuries or death.

• Toys with fur or hair could be ingested and aspirated by oral age children.

• Projectile toys, including dart guns, sling shots, and peashooters, could cause eye injuries or blindness.

• Batteries in battery-operated toys could leak, overheat, and explode.

• Toys with pointed tips and blunt or sharp edges could crush, cut, or puncture a child’s skin.

• Toys composed of flammable material could ignite when exposed to heat or flame.

• Toys that require electricity to function and do not have step-down transformers have a risk of shock or electrocution.

• Toys with toxic surfaces or components that have the potential to be ingested or cause skin irritations (e.g., some children’s play makeup kits have components that contain ferrocyanide, a known poison).

For the most part, toy shopping is a matter of common sense. Most toys are safe when used as intended and assembled properly. Parents need to look for well-made toys with sturdy joints and no small parts, buy toys appropriate for the child’s age and size, and return the warranty card to learn about recalls.

Tim Tichy, Community Safety Manager, National Safety Council-Greater Omaha Chapter, reminds parents that even with safer toys, it comes down to supervising children to keep them safe. He also advises parents to check out the CPSC website to find out about the most recent recalls and all recalls since February 1974.

familySPECTRUM

• • • • December 2011

familyspectrum •

atplay

December 2011 Event Calendar sunday

monday

Don’t miss the fun! Clip and put on your fridge.

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Christmas in Brownville Dec. 4-5 • Citywide Brownville, NE (402) 825-3982 • www.brownville-ne.com Celebrate the season in Victorian Brownville with music, holiday food, shopping in the village boutiques and special entertainment. You won’t want to miss out on the fun!

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Pearl Harbor Remembrance

Christmas Past & Present Dec. 3, 9-11 • Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer Grand Island, NE (308) 385-5316 • www.stuhrmuseum.org Enjoy beautiful lamp-lit tours of Railroad Town, cooking, crafts, decorations, live music and the sights, sounds and smells of Christmas. There is something for everyone during this signature event that combines the passion of living history with the magic of the holidays.

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Ice Cream Day

Christmas at the Cody’s Dec. 16-19 • Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park North Platte (308) 535-8035 • outdoornebraska.org Celebrate Christmas “Buffalo Bill” Cody style with a visit to Cody’s 1886 ranch. The mansion will have 18 lighted and decorated Christmas trees. Families can enjoy hot cider, cookies, chestnuts, holiday music, horse-drawn carriage rides, and visits from Santa from 5:30 to 8pm each day.

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Holiday Time Around the World Dec 26-30 • The Rose Theater Omaha (402) 345-4849 • rosetheater.org

Christmas with the Symphony Dec. 16-18 • Holland Performing Arts Center Omaha, NE (402) 342-3560 • omahasymphony.org

When a young inventor unveils his latest invention—a new transporter device—he convinces the audience to travel with him on a mission to discover holiday traditions around the world. This audience participation event will entertain young and old alike.

Broadway stars, local talent, an audience sing-along, the popular dancing Santas, and the Omaha Symphony create a can’t miss Christmas spectacular.

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2 First National Bank Fireworks Dec. 31 at 7pm • 14th and Farnam Streets Omaha (402) 345-5401 • holidaylightsfestival.org

New Year’s Eve

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Celebrate New Year’s Eve with the First National Bank fireworks show. The closing event of the Holiday Lights Festival, it is one of the largest New Year’s Eve fireworks displays in the region. Enjoy the spectacular show with family or friends before heading out for the evening.

5 6 Noon Year’s Eve Celebration Dec. 31 • The Durham Museum Omaha (402) 444-5071 • durhammuseum.org

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Get an early jump on your New Year’s Celebration! Children will especially enjoy this fun-packed party with music, special crafts, and activities. The day ends with a celebratory bubble wrap stomp and ball drop at noon.

To learn more about events from around the state, go to www.VisitNebraska.gov. Click on “Things to Do.”

• readonlinenow.com December 2011 • • • •

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Mother of the Year Stories: I Am Mama Bear, Hear Me Roar

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all play areas. I despise them. It seems every time I let my children play there, they end up sick three days later.

You know a mom didn’t design them because there’s usually some giant structure in the middle that you can’t see around. There’s not a gate to keep the kids inside, so your eyes are constantly darting back and forth like you’re at Wimbledon to make sure they don’t run free in the mall. Most of all, I dislike them because it reminds me of my first Mama Bear moment. Moms, you know what I’m talking about, right?

The moment you hear words come out of your mouth in a tone you’ve never heard before. It’s that feeling that completely takes over your entire being to protect those beautiful creatures you carried in your belly for nine months and stayed up all night with one too many times.

Yup…I had my first Mama Bear moment in the mall, in front of at least 40 other moms and dads.

I looked away from my two-year-old for a mere 10 seconds. Just like that, Riley had moved across the play area to where I couldn’t see him. As I turned the corner to look for him, I saw Riley crying and trapped as a four-yearold pounded his fist on Riley’s head. Some beast from within me came to the surface, and at the top of my lungs, I yelled, “SSSSTTTTOOOOPPPP!” Did that loud sound that stopped everyone in their tracks really come out of me? I picked up my son and consoled him, grabbed the other child’s hand and demanded to know who his parents were. All the parents just stood there, silent, looking at us. I asked every parent in the area if that boy was theirs. No one fessed up, and I could only assume his parents had left him alone to play there while they shopped. My husband came and met us, and I had to inform him of my very glamorous mother of the year moment. He laughed hysterically, and my adrenaline finally returned to normal levels. I can still hear my mama bear roar echoing through the mall.

familySPECTRUM

Lisa Jensen Full-time working mom to son Riley, age 7, and daughter Ruby, age 2.

New Blog : motheroftheyearawards.blogspot.com

28 • atplay live•love•grow

Th e Je n se

n Fam il y

• • • • December 2011

familyspectrum •

atplay

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• readonlinenow.com December 2011 • • • •

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atplay Submitted by: Nebraska Travel and Tourism | Photo Provided by: The Durham Museum

Christmas tree in Union Station

On The Go! Explore the Magic of Christmas

T

he sights and sounds of Christmas are magical, especially for children. And there’s no better way to bring the enchantment of the season to life than by enjoying one of Nebraska’s many holiday events.

Pack the family up and head to Lincoln on Dec. 16 for “Holidays in the Haymarket.” Bundle up for a carriage ride through the Historic Haymarket, catch entertainment at the Creamery Building, and visit the unique galleries, shops, and restaurants decked out for the holidays.

Turn the holidays into a learning experience by taking a step back in time at Wessels Living History Farm in York. During “Christmas on the Farm,” your family can experience the sights, sounds, scents, and flavors of the 1920s through period decorations, Christmas music, goodies, and more.

For a truly unique experience, head to Beatrice for the “Winter Festival of Prairie Cultures” at Homestead National Monument of America. Here, the winter traditions of homesteaders come to life through special events and entertainment.

If you’re looking to spend some time outdoors, a family trip to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park may be in order. Enjoy a winter hike, ice-skating, cross-country skiing, or sledding. Or venture to the park on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day for a special meal at the Lodge Steakhouse.

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Join today at www.metroymca.org.

Use promo code DECFAM to waive the joining fee.

Expires 12/31/11. Online purchases only.

30 • atplay live•love•grow

Turn the family into volunteer citizen scientists and head north for the annual Christmas Bird Count at Ponca State Park on Dec. 14. Be sure to get an early start because binoculars and bird guides are distributed at 7:30 a.m.

Closer to home, you won’t want to miss “Christmas at Union Station” at The Durham Museum in Omaha.

In addition to the spectacular exhibits, the museum is home to Omaha’s largest indoor Christmas tree.

During family nights, children can share their wish lists with Santa, enjoy live music, and create holiday crafts. Talented local entertainers, school musicians, and choirs perform on weekends as part of The Durham Museum’s Holiday Concert Series.

You can find details about these events and complete listings of holiday happenings at the Nebraska SPECTRUM Division of Travel and Tourism website, VisitNebraska.gov.

family

• • • • December 2011

familyspectrum •

Nebraska

Babysitting Classes

Prepare your pre-teen or teen to care for infants and young children!

Babysitting Class Schedule

All classes held on Saturday 8:00AM-4:00PM 2011 Date: December 12 2012 Dates: January 14, February 11, March 10, April 14, May 12, June 9, July 14, August 11, September 8, October 13, November 10, December 8 Tuition $58, Includes Lunch Class includes: • First Aid and CPR • What to do in case of an illness or injury • Evaluating emergency situations and calling 911 • Changing diapers • Feeding (bottle and spoon) and burping • Games and activities to keep youngsters happy

Students receive a Certificate of Completion good for two years!

Adult and Pediatric FA/CPR/AED Combo Classes Every Parent, Grandparent and Caregiver Should Learn These Lifesaving Skills!

Combo Standard (Adult) & Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED Schedule

Certificate: First Aid 3 Years, CPR/AED 2 Years Saturday Daytime Classes Adult and Pediatric First Aid Only Adult and Pediatric CPR/AED Only Adult and Pediatric First Aid, CPR/AED

Time 8:00-11:30 12:30-5:00 8:00-5:00

Tuition $50 $60 $69

2011 Saturday Class Date: December 26 2012 Saturday Class Dates: January 21, February 18, March 17, April 21, May 26, June 23, July 7, August 18, September 1, October 6, November 24, December 29 All classes held at our location 11620 M Circle (120th & L St.)

Call 402-896-0454 or visit www.SafeNebraska.org for more informaton or to register!

Call 402-898-7369 or visit www.SafeNebraska.org. to register!

Nebraska

On his way to feeling better by bedtime

Now at 2 Locations!

Pacific Pediatric Clinic 139th & Pacific

88th Street Pediatric Clinic 90th & Center

(402) 334-SICK 速

Staffed by Board Certified pediatricians, Same Day Pediatrics is not an urgent care clinic, but a real pediatric clinic with scheduled appointment times.

Appointments available every evening, weekend and holiday.

BOYS TOWN

Pediatrics

boystownpediatrics.org For weekly pediatric tips check us out on facebook and twitter.

facebook.com/BoysTownPediatrics and twitter.com/BoysTownPeds

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