October 2013 HerFamily

Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student October 2013 A Publication of Omaha Magazine

WHY KIDS Need Sleep BB AND CC CREAMS What are they?

The besT place for kids.

Charley, age 8 Harlan, IA Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Visit childrensomaha.org for more information on how we can help your child. For a pediatrician, family physician or pediatric specialist, call 1.800.833.3100.

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1 3 4

Editor’s Letter

Push Yourself to Try Something New

A

Volume 1 • Issue 5 PUBLISHER Todd Lemke

s we get older,

we have a tendency to gravitate toward things that are easy and familiar—like doing our hair and makeup the same way for years or cooking the same meals every night. There’s nothing wrong with easy.

In fact, when you have kids, easy is the shining light in a world full of temper-tantrums, phone calls from the principal, and brandnew clothes with week-old spaghetti stains.

But easy can also be boring.

That’s why I’m challenging you to try something new. And don’t wait for the New Year because, chances are, you won’t actually do anything. I’m not saying go skydiving or anything crazy like that—unless you think that sounds awesome. It could be as simple as making yourself wear a more colorful wardrobe instead of only blacks and whites. Or you can do what I’m trying to do right now, which is sampling different local restaurants (not national chains). By the way, South Omaha has amazing Mexican cuisine that’s very affordable.

How about hosting a foreign exchange student? In this issue’s cover story, we feature the Christensen-Morris family of Elkhorn, who have hosted three foreign exchange students from Norway since 2009. We wanted to share their story with you because there are so many wonderful benefits of hosting. You and your family get to learn about a new culture; you get to help broaden a foreign student’s education and cultural understanding; and above all, you create a lifelong bond of friendship and family. If you haven’t ever considered taking in a foreign exchange student, you definitely should. And if you’ve already given it some thought and are on the fence, maybe this will be the right push to get you to commit. Read “Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student” on pg. 22.

Or you could get involved with Operation Christmas Child, like Millard South High School student Breanna Burklund. This program is run by nonprofit organization Samaritan’s Purse and delivers shoebox gifts to needy children around the world. This past July, Breanna decided to try something new. After years of packing shoeboxes with her family, she traveled to the Philippines to personally deliver these gifts. Check out her story (and information on how to get involved) on pg. 16.

Whatever it is, make sure it’s something you’ve never done before. Oh, yeah. And have fun.

MANAGING EDITOR David Williams HER FAMILY EDITOR & WEB CONTENT EDITOR Bailey Hemphill ASSISTANT EDITOR Chris Wolfgang EDITORIAL INTERN Peter Setter (#28) CREATIVE DIRECTOR John Gawley ART DIRECTOR Katie Anderson DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY & INTERACTIVE MEDIA Bill Sitzmann JUNIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Paul Lukes CONTRIBUTORS Halston Belcastro • Deborah Gleich-Bope Bev Carlson • Darcie Dingman • Paige Edwards Sarah Egan • Cherie Lytle • Susan Meyers Leslie Murrell • Traci Osuna • Mara P. Paradis, M.D. Sheila Taylor • Meghan Townley VICE PRESIDENT Greg Bruns HER FAMILY ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Paige Edwards ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Gwen Lemke • Gil Cohen • Vicki Voet Sandy Matson SALES ASSOCIATES Alicia Smith Hollins • Jessica Linhart • Dawn Dennis TECHNICAL ADVISOR Tyler Lemke WAREHOUSE DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Mike Brewer For a one-year subscription (12 issues), send $9.95 to P.O. Box 461208, Papillion, NE 68046-1208. www.omahapublications.com Comments? Story ideas?

Send your letter to the editor: letters@omahapublications.com

Bailey Hemphill Editor, HerFamily Magazine

@omahamagazine

Original contributions become the property of Omaha Publications. Contributions cannot be acknowledged or returned.

@omahamagazine

omahamagazine

The information contained within HerFamily 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.

HerFamily 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

4 HerFamily • October 2013

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inside

october 2013

features

9 Why Kids Need Sleep 12 Grades, and Then Some 16 Operation Christmas Child 20 The Bennetts and Their Little Bit of Luck 22 Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student 29 Gluten-Free Brownies 31 Getting Through the Emotional and Physical Challenges of Breast Cancer

departments

31

10 Home: Organizing a Family Command Center 15 Young Hero: Ashley Dubas 28 Food: Biscuits and Sausage Gravy 36 Health Extra: ADHD 38 Fashion: When the Weather’s Fine 42 Beauty: BB and CC Creams 45 Calendar of Events 46 On the Go: Skinny Bones Pumpkin Patch

columns

11 Mom on the Rocks: Fall in Nebraska 14 Teen Voice: Stress 18 Education: What are the 40 Developmental Assets?

26 Fitness: Rockers 35 Single Parent: Consistency 43 Auto Care: Deer Season

Thanks to Wells Morris, Greta Morris, Brenda Christensen, Mike Morris, and Tatum Morris for being on this issue’s cover.

Photo by Bill Sitzmann

42 on the cover

26

Why Kids Need Sleep 9 Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student 22 BB and CC Creams 42 Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student October 2013

WHY KIDS Need Sleep BB AND CC CREAMS What are they?

A Publication of Omaha Magazine

6 HerFamily • October 2013

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feature story by Mara P. Paradis, M.D., Boys Town Pediatrics – Lakeside Clinic

Why Kids Need Sleep

S

to your child’s overall health as proper nutrition and plenty of exercise. Sleep gives the body a chance to rest. It is a time in which the events we experience during waking hours are integrated into our memories, as well as a time for our bodies to make repairs from daily wear and tear.

Children who do not sleep well do not learn as well and have a higher rate of behavior problems. Additionally, they may experience more illness because their immune system is not as effective. leep is as necessary

How Much Sleep Does Your Child Need?

So how much sleep is enough for your child? Well, it depends on your child. Some kids need more sleep than others. Boys Town Pediatrics recommends: • Kids 5-12 years of age get between 10 and 11 hours of sleep each night • Teens 13-14 years of age get between 8 and 9 hours of sleep each night • Teens 15 and older get around 8 hours of sleep each night You will know when your child is not getting enough sleep if he or she is tired or cranky, has difficulty following directions, is unable to concentrate on school work, or is abnormally clumsy when participating in activities in which he or she normally excels.

Tips

for

Helping Your Child Sleep

The best way to help your child get enough sleep is to develop a regular sleep routine and a consistent schedule for bedtime and waking. Stick to this schedule during the week and on weekends.

Other ways to make sure your child gets the right amount of sleep include: • Spending 20-30 minutes before bedtime relaxing. Have your child take a warm bath or read during this time.

• Not keeping a television in your child’s bedroom. Watching television before going to bed can make it harder to fall asleep. bestofomaha.com

• Keeping caffeine to a minimum (i.e., soda, chocolate, coffee).

• Monitoring your child’s television viewing. Scary or disturbing programs can interfere with his or her ability to fall asleep.

• Not exercising before bedtime.

• Designating your child’s bed a “sleep only” area. Reading, doing homework, playing games and talking on the phone should be done in a separate location.

When to Call a Doctor About Your Child’s Sleep Problems

If your child is having trouble sleeping, there may be an underlying cause. It is possible that a more serious condition is the cause for your child’s lack of sleep. Such problems include depression, substance abuse, or sleep apnea. If you suspect that your child is suffering from something more serious than simply not being able to go to sleep, schedule a visit with his or her physician.

Boys Town Pediatrics has offices in four locations throughout Omaha that offer weekday hours as well as extended evening and Saturday hours in some locations. Visit boystownpediatrics.org for a full physician directory where you can watch introduction videos and meet a pediatrician before you visit.

HerFamily • October 2013 9

home story by Sheila Taylor, Freshly Organized

HOW

Organizing a Family Command Center

H

home only to realize you’ve forgotten your phone, the mail you were supposed to send, or paperwork for your car registration? What you need is a “family command center,” an organized space that everyone in your home can use to keep track of important dates, information, documents, and other necesave you ever left

sary items.

But how do you know what to put there, where to establish this center, and how to organize it? Here are some tips:

WHERE

Find a place that everyone passes through. This could be a corner spot in the kitchen, a centrally located home office, or a wall in the entryway or hallway where an armoire, bookcase, or shelves can be placed. Many newer homes have a designated “drop” zone (if that describes your home, count your blessings!).

WHAT

Determine what belongs in this space—a bulletin or magnetic board to post schedules, invitations, permission slips; a chalk or dry erase board to write lists, such as menus, groceries, to-dos, and appointments; and items such as mail, bills, stamps, envelopes, school papers, calendars, phones and phone chargers, and keys. In addition, determine what doesn’t belong in this space. Magazines and newspapers, for example, would be better on a coffee table in the living room.

10 HerFamily • October 2013

Set up a system to maintain this area. One idea is to use a portable and open file box to store loose or piled papers. Files could be organized by different categories (invitations, bills, etc.) or by family members’ items. Label them in a way that makes the most sense to you. You may even decide to color code them. Some families would rather keep their papers in a binder or boxes. (For me, these work better for storing documents or ideas not regularly used). However, there’s no right or wrong way—just do what works for you. Personally, I have a file for each of my boys’ school information and separate ones for each of their extras (sports, piano lessons, appointments, church, etc.). When the school year is over, I transfer any of the items we choose to keep long-term into a keepsake bin.

It’s critical to keep files current and throw away items no longer needed. Another tip?

Write phone numbers or addresses inside file folders so information is handy in a moment’s notice. (It’s especially helpful in the “home repair” file, in case you have a water leak and need to get ahold of the plumber sooner rather than later.)

WHEN

There’s no time like the present! Set up your command center today. Then, make a plan of action as to when you will sort and file (daily, weekly, etc.) and stick to it.

WHY

Sanity. Less stress. More time for meaningful and desired activities, like relaxing with a cup of coffee and good magazine. (HerFamily anyone?)

For help with home organization, contact Sheila Taylor at freshlyorganized.com or call 402-670-3271. omahamagazine.com

mom on the rocks story and photo by Leslie Murrell

Murrell’s kids, Lucy and Max, at Vala’s Pumpkin Patch.

Fall in Nebraska

S

I’m from Texas, we are thankful to have several friends and family visit us here in Nebraska. Even though you and I know it really is “The Good Life” (wink, wink), it turns out Omaha is not everyone’s number one vacation destination.

My favorite time to have visitors in Nebraska is October. Guests get the crisp fall at the zoo, the fun pumpkin patches, and if they look around anywhere, they’ll witness Nebraska football.

No one does harvest celebration better than Omaha-area pumpkin patches. From corn mazes to hayrides to campfires, eventually you’ll get to the pumpkins. We all have our own favorite pumpkin patch cuisines. My daughter, Lucy, likes caramel apples. My son, Max, goes straight for the fresh cookies. My husband, Chris, however, usually picks barbecue. And I get succotash.

I train my visitors to do it right. Getting extra kettle corn on Monday to take with you to the zoo on Tuesday is practically a rite of passage.

Whether they have kids or not, they have to experience Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium. I explain that there’s no need for a workout; we’ll be burning plenty of calories (consumed at the pumpkin patch) while walking through the zoo. I like to guide friends through the shark tunnel in the aquarium and mention that scene in one of the Jaws movies when the aquarium breaks. When we’re right in the middle, I point at the glass and ask, “Hey, is that a crack?”

The beauty of our zoo is the accessibility to the beautiful animals. The gorillas, the Desert Dome, or dining in the Lied Jungle—it’s all a unique experience. The kids like to take our family friends to the Kingdoms of the Night. They think it’s cool and spooky. And they like to show their friends how Mom freaks out in the bats section. Real funny, kids!

Still, the best part about Nebraska in the fall is football. I’ve been telling friends back in Texas (who think they are crazy for football) about Husker football, but they think it’s bigger there.

So we make them come up here and see it for themselves. My friends are always surprised at the positive spirit of football, the tailgates, and warm welcome given to opposing teams’ fans. I make them watch the news the whole time they are here so that we can see how many facets of football is worked into the news: weather, traffic, recruiting, news reports, segues, etc.

Just remember, Omaha—fall is, in this writer’s opinion, the best time of the year to introduce out-of-towners to our home. ince

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HerFamily • October 2013 11

feature story by Bev Carlson, APR, Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska • photo by Bill Sitzmann

Chad, 14, of Papillion

Grades, and Then Some…

Fully Equipping Your Student for Success

I

really long time to get organized. Not this morning or this week—I mean since high school.

I was one of those irritating kids who pretty much winged it through my early grades. I never had to study. Maybe running through spelling words a time or two before a test, but really, hardcore, sit-down-and-learn-this studying wasn’t my thing. And since my grades were always good, no red flags for my parents.

Until high school.

I started taking French and honors classes. There may be a few subjects you can “wing,” if you just pay attention in class, but I’m here to tell you that, for most people, foreign language is not one of them. Neither is The Odyssey.

So, at the age of 14, I was finally introduced to the concept of “studying” and being fully prepared for class. It was an eye-opener. And truth be told, it took me a while to catch on. I tried really hard to be organized like my friend Judy, who always had her notes in order, her assignment book filled in with little checkmarks by the completed items. She graduated second in our class of 384. My efforts always seemed short-lived.

It’s not that I was a bad student. I managed to graduate in the top 10 percent of the class, but I just wasn’t as successful as I could have been if I had started high school with some established study skills.

High-school Spanish teacher Theresa Jensen says the biggest challenges for kids who don’t know how to study isn’t their natural ability. It’s generally t took me a

12 HerFamily • October 2013

organization and planning: “They tend to wait until the last minute when it’s really too late to internalize anything. Then, when they finally focus, they don’t know what to do. They’ll passively look over their spotty notes or the book. They’ll try to quickly memorize vocabulary or rules, but learning a language [or any subject] is so much more than just memorizing words.”

Jensen says she can tell which students are studiers and which aren’t. “The studiers pull out old vocabulary lists; they take notes without being told. They write things down in an assignment notebook and sometimes bring in their homemade flashcards. I can [also] tell which kids have logged onto our class study website and which haven’t.” And she says the most obvious indicator is who performs well in class and how prepared they are.

So as school is steaming full speed ahead, what can you do to help your student be a “Judy” and not a “Bev?” The number one suggestion is to teach organizational skills early on. Also don’t use good grades as the only indicator of your child’s progress in school. Elementary teachers generally hand out assignment books or sheets, and parents are asked to sign them so the teacher knows that the child is getting omahamagazine.com

Interior Design Accent Decor & Floral Design FREE In-Home Consultation his work done. Make your child responsible for bringing the assignment book to you to sign (rather than you asking for it); and as you do, ask your child to tell you more about their work. Even in early grades, encourage your kids to take responsibility for writing down their assignments and checking them off as they are completed.

“Good study skills start with simply being organized,” says Jensen. “I’ve seen high school students over the years who end up in special study halls because they are failing three classes. Why? Not because they can’t learn, but because they are so unorganized.

They don’t even know where to start. They lose assignments and papers and don’t know where to find the answer. They don’t know what the teacher expects of them.”

Harder still for those students who have always had an easy time getting excellent grades and suddenly begin bringing home 2s, 3s, and even 4s (a.k.a. Bs, Cs, and Ds). Confused parents may be quick to blame their teenager for slacking off when, in reality, the student is doing exactly what they have always done. It just doesn’t work anymore.

The best advice? Start your child early with a regular, established study time and place that works for your family. Encourage and teach consistent organizational skills.

Even helping little ones learn to put toys and clothes away in the right places counts.

Older students can make sure they are using their assignment book consistently.

Having teachers check the book weekly and make notes for a while can help clarify and demystify expectations. The student should have one place for keeping important papers, and set aside specific time for study several times a week, even if there’s no assignment due the next day. If these things aren’t helping, it’s probably time for the student to let the teacher know he’s struggling and get the teacher’s recommendations.

Sending your student to college with solid studying and organizational skills is a powerful gift. And it’s far more efficient to strengthen weak study skills before you start paying per credit hour.

For more suggestions on helping develop study skills visit greatschools.org or childdevelopmentinfo.org. bestofomaha.com

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teen voice story by Halston Belcastro,

Millard West High School

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14 HerFamily • October 2013

I’ve accepted that stress is a part of life— especially for a high-school student. Balancing work and play isn’t an easy task and will be something that I will have to do for the rest of my life.

There have been countless times where I’ve wanted to pull out my hair over an assignment or just give up on a late night study session and go to sleep. There have also been times where I’ve felt overwhelmed with homework and projects and figuring out where I can fit in eating, sleeping, and socializing. The one thing I’ve learned is that running away isn’t going to finish that assignment or project. The only choice you have to deplete that stress is to get it done and off your plate.

It’s weird to think that stress can be rewarding. After I complete an assignment that was stressing me out, I always feel a little proud and relieved. It’s a little weight off my shoulders and makes my steps a little lighter as I go about the rest of my day. The small successes of finishing that math homework or reading those assigned pages should be celebrated to keep up that positivity. Stress can take a toll on me, and without recognizing those small victories, there is no break from the constant stress of life’s hard moments.

Stress, whether we like it or not, is an inevitable part of life. A little positivity never hurt anyone and can go a long way when stress eats away at us. Celebrating those small wins over stress, no matter how unimportant they seem, can truly make a difference. omahamagazine.com

young hero Young Hero proudly sponsored by:

story by Bailey Hemphill

Young Hero: Ashley Dubas

A

Dubas, 12, is a sixth grader at Beadle Middle School.

She has a younger sister, Nicole, whom she is very close to, and a dog named Benny, who’s been her pal since she was 1. While Ashley might sound like your average sixth grader, she is anything but. In fact, she’s a brave and compassionate “Young Hero.”

Born with a congenital heart defect, Ashley has already had two open-heart surgeries and gone through countless rehabilitations and procedures that most adults don’t experience until they’re much older.

“During the course of her last surgery,” says mom Sondra, “she experienced a stroke and had to go through intensive rehabilitation to learn to do everything all over again from sitting, talking, and eating to walking, writing, and playing with her friends. She’s been through a lot.” Nevertheless, Sondra has seen her daughter overcome the struggles of her heart defect with a positive attitude.

Because of that, Sondra was inspired to create a nonprofit organization based in Omaha called Heart Heroes, Inc. Together, Sondra and Ashley have worked with other moms of children with heart defects to provide superhero capes to thousands of children in nine countries and nearly every state in the U.S. “Ashley proudly wears her cape and has been a spokesperson for the organization by appearing on such TV programs, as KMTV’s The Morning Blend and most recently NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams,” adds Sondra.

Throughout all of this, Ashley has become a role model for other children, especially those who are also heart kids. “She shows them that, even though they shley

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may have special medical needs and go through hard times, they can overcome their obstacles,” says Sondra. “She is an example of willpower and strength.” That’s why Sondra wrote a book called Miracle of Belief: The Story of a Six-Year-Old Heart Hero, detailing Ashley’s stroke and the family’s healing journey (the proceeds of which benefit Heart Heroes, Inc.).

“Ashley has been through more than I could ever imagine a person having to endure. There have been many times that I wished I could have traded places with her, [but] she has inspired me, as her mother, to use her experience to help others.”

For more information about Heart Heroes, Inc., visit heartheroes.org.

Do you have a Young Hero in your life? Tell us their story.

They might be featured right here on our Young Hero page!

Contact Bailey Hemphill at bailey@omahamagazine.com.

HerFamily • October 2013 15

feature story by Peter Setter • photo provided by Breanna Burklund

Breanna with schoolchildren in the Philippines.

Operation Christmas Child High-school student Breanna Burklund delivers shoeboxes to needy kids in the Philippines.

O

ften, the effects of

got our high-school youth involved.”

But Burklund got the opportunity of a lifetime this past July. She traveled to the Philippines to personally deliver shoeboxes to children.

Burklund started her distributions in the Philippines at People’s Missionaries Church and a public school, delivering packages to 400 children between the two locations.

“I couldn’t believe how overjoyed all the kids were,” Burklund remembers. “I also noticed that they were very protective of their box. Most of the kids have never received a gift like this or had anything of their own, so even for us to try and play with them or see what they got was hard. They were very skeptical and wanted to make sure nobody was going to take [the box].”

As she delivered more and more boxes to boarding and public schools, she noticed that, while so many children were

16 HerFamily • October 2013

omahamagazine.com

kind deeds go unseen. Who receives that donated coat? What food is purchased with that monetary donation? Whose life was impacted?

Breanna Burklund, 17, a student at Millard South High School, decided it was time to witness the good her work had done.

For the past 12 years, Burklund has volunteered with Samaritan’s Purse, an international Christian relief and evangelism organization that follows the motto, “Go and do likewise.” More specifically, she has helped with Operation Christmas Child, one of the organization’s programs that aims to spread love to needy children around the world.

The heart of OCC is packing shoeboxes for boys and girls ages 2 to 10. Individuals, families, churches, and other groups in the U.S. and 10 other countries fill these shoeboxes to the brim with items that impoverished children may not be able to afford—toys, school supplies, hygienic items, and clothing.

Then, the boxes are delivered to children across the globe.

“As a child, my family and I used to pack boxes,” Burklund says. “We then

benefiting from the program, many others were being left out.

“How do you stand there and watch [the children] watch you give out boxes to only a select few, but turn way because there aren’t enough?” Burklund asks. “If everyone could pack twice the number of boxes they did last year, we could see a box in the hands of every child in need.”

Last year, Nebraska and the surrounding area sent 534,136 shoeboxes abroad.

Burklund, as well as the Samaritan’s Purse Eastern Nebraska division, hope that number can be doubled by getting more people involved.

Still, even if every child were to receive a box, there is no guarantee of what each child would receive since the delivery is left up to chance (though Samaritan’s Purse has a helpful list of shoebox gift suggestions on their website). Burklund prays that each child receives what he or she truly needs.

“Two twin girls came up to receive their boxes, and they ended up getting separated in line,” Burklund recalls. “I didn’t really think much of it, but later, when I was playing with the kids, I came across them, and they both held up pictures of two twin girls that had packed their box from the U.S.— a jaw-dropping moment! That’s really when it hit me that this has to be God. How else would the two separated girls both get the twin boxes?”

Burklund’s trip piqued her interest in missionary work. She says she would love to do more missionary work, especially with children, and has her sights set on a trip next summer to an orphanage in China. For now, however, she will continue sending shoeboxes abroad.

“A lot of people get strung up on what to put in the boxes, but the real focus is on the message the kids receive. The gift is the bonus, but with it, a seed is planted.”

Shoeboxes will be collected during National Collection Week, Nov. 18-25. Locations for shoebox drop-off include Benson Baptist Church (6319 Maple St.), Westwood Church (13056 Atwood Ave.), First Lutheran Church (3200 E. Military), and First Baptist Church (206 E. 23rd Ave.). For more information about how to pack a shoebox for Operation Christmas Child, visit samaritanspurse.org or call 660-744-4729. bestofomaha.com

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What are the 40

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n the past, a

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school’s sole purpose was to educate students in reading, writing, math, and other areas. Today, the focus of schools is on the entire development of the young person, including academic, personal, and social growth.

You may have seen the 40 Developmental Assets posted somewhere in your child’s school. But are you aware of what these really are and how they are utilized in your child’s education?

The 40 Developmental Assets were developed by Search Institute, a research-based organization that works to address important issues in education and youth development. The assets are the institute’s framework of strengths and supports believed to be critical in developing the child as a whole.

The assets are divided into halves. The first half examines external aspects of children’s lives, such as family support, safety, and a caring school climate, which are some of the main focuses of the school.

The second half examines internal aspects of children’s lives, such as compassion, integrity, responsibility, and self-esteem. These traits are developed through guidance lessons in the schools, as well as by the learning atmosphere teachers create in their classrooms. By making a conscious effort to foster these assets in children, the schools are creating well-rounded students who are better prepared to learn and grow.

Several school districts use these assets to drive parts of their curriculum. Teachers can utilize the assets when delivering their daily lessons by relating ideas discussed in the classroom back to the assets.

School principals can use the assets as a tool to develop a strong culture of learning and achievement among their student body. Lastly, parents can apply the assets to their parenting, which combines with the development provided by the teachers to create a good balance in the lives of their children.

A full list of the 40 Developmental Assets can be found at search-institute.org. omahamagazine.com

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visit omahasymphony.org or call 402.345.0606 HerFamily • October 2013 19

feature story by Traci Osuna • photos by Bill Sitzmann

From left: Erica, James, Angela, Julia, Lucky, and Anna

The Bennetts and their Little Bit of Luck

F

for everyone. Kids, work, school functions, sporting events…the list goes on and on. Add a family pet into the mix and it’s enough to make you wonder how it all gets done.

Angela and Rick Bennett of Bellevue have one such family.

With four school-age children, they faced a question: “Is a dog one member too many?”

A few years ago, the Bennetts were looking for a dog to bring into their family. “We needed a dog that didn’t shed,” explains Angela. Two of her children, James, 12, and Julia, 7, have allergies. “We had a list of very specific breeds and thought we were going to have to look around for a while.”

As luck would have it, the family stopped into the Nebraska Humane Society on the same day that a Lhasa-Poo (a cross between a Lhasa Apso and a Poodle) puppy was put up for adoption—and his name just happened to be Lucky.

“In the beginning, the kids promised to do a lot of the work,” recalls Angela.

For the most part, she says that they have kept their end of the bargain, with everyone taking turns cleaning up after Lucky, feeding him, and walking him.

She shares that her husband, Rick, made sure that each child had his or her own responsibilities in caring for Lucky, allowing the new family member to bond with everyone. Angela admits that it was difficult in the beginning. amily life is hectic

20 HerFamily • October 2013

“When we first got him, he wasn’t nearly as easygoing as he is now,” she says. The Humane Society identified Lucky as a family-friendly choice, but the screening process can sometimes be an imperfect science. Lucky’s adjustment to his new home took some work. Angela says that he had a hard time getting used to the kids.

“When they would touch him, especially when he had some food in his dish, Lucky would bite them,” she says.

Concerned by this behavior, Rick started to wonder if they might need to give the dog away. “We wouldn’t have given him away just because we didn’t want him, but obviously we didn’t want the kids—or their friends—to get hurt.”

In an attempt to save Lucky, 15 year-old Erica closely observed the dog’s behavior and came up with a list of ten rules, written in Lucky’s voice, that each family member should follow. A copy was hung in each child’s bedroom.

Rules such as “Don’t bother me when I’m eating or have my bone,” “When I’m asleep, leave me alone…I’m not in the mood to play,” and “If I walk away, don’t grab me or keep me back” topped the list. omahamagazine.com

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“I think it was mostly due to Erica’s rules that [we were able to keep] Lucky,” says Angela.

Anna, age 10, reminded her mother of another helpful hint: “Close the zipper on the trampoline, and don’t leave a stool out there when it’s open.”

After making a few other adjustments, such as crating Lucky during meals so that he wouldn’t beg for food, things are running smoothly at the Bennett home.

“Lucky is pretty laid-back,” says Angela.

“He loves to sit at the door and just look out. But when he sees another dog, he gets a little crazy.”

Though Lucky is rather territorial, he does enjoy playing at the dog park. “Once he’s off his leash, he gets along with the other dogs.

He’s never gotten into a fight with another dog at the park.”

The idea of bringing home a new dog is always fun and exciting. But soon reality sets in and difficult issues need to be worked out. Will the kids follow through on their responsibilities? How will Fido interact with the children?

“It’s a big commitment!” says Angela.

Thankfully, for the Bennetts, they were able to find a way to resolve these unexpected issues within their own home and keep Lucky as a part of their family. “It was a little touchy with him [at first], about how he reacted to the kids,” says Angela. But she offers this advice: “Pay attention to the dog’s personality and be patient with the interaction between the dog and the kids.

“This is really corny, but we always said we were ‘Lucky’ to find him,” says Angela. bestofomaha.com

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Never cut what can be untied

—Chinese Proverb

HerFamily • October 2013 21

cover feature story by Bailey Hemphill 窶｢ photo by Bill Sitzmann

Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student Families share American culture and create lifelong bonds.

Wells Morris, Greta Morris, Brenda Christensen, Mike Morris, and Tatum Morris

22窶ォerFamily 窶｢ October 2013

omahamagazine.com

The Christensen-Morris family remains close with the Gjelstad and Lien kids and their families.

Back - Markus Gjelstad, Wells Morris, Vegard Lien, Asbjorn Lien, Vidar Gjelstad, Kristin Gjelstad. Middle - Mike Morris, Kristin Lien, Marthe Gjelstad, Greta Morris, Rebecca Gjelstad. Front - Brenda Christensen, Berit Lien, Tatum Morris, Hakon Lien.

Photo taken in Norway, August 2011.

“N

say never,” says Brenda Christensen when asked if she’ll ever host foreign exchange students again in her family’s home in Elkhorn.

Christensen and husband Mike Morris have hosted three students since 2009, all from Tonsberg, Norway. “We talked about it extensively as a family,” she says. “Everyone had to be in, or we weren’t going to do it.”

That “everyone” included Christensen and Morris’ three kids: Wells, 20, Greta, 18, and Tatum, 13.

Marthe Gjelstad was their first student, staying with them from August 2009 through June 2010. “The kids found her in an online [foreign exchange] student profile,” explains Christensen. “We were so in love with this girl. It couldn’t have been more perfect. [And] we were so heartbroken when she left.”

During Marthe’s stay, Christensen says she claimed the school’s Prom Queen title because everyone—both students and teachers—loved her. “She was so funny, loving, and oh my gosh, we just adored this girl. Just beautiful inside and out.”

That was the first time Christensen beever

bestofomaha.com

lieved her family would never host a foreign exchange student again “because everyone would be measured up against Marthe, and that really wasn’t fair to anyone else.”

But remember—never say never. Eventually, the Christensen-Morris family took in Marthe’s neighbor and friend back in Norway, Kristin Lien. She stayed with them for only four months. “That was a good experience, too,” Christensen says. “Kristin wanted to embrace, see, and learn everything American. She just wanted to do it all, and she was very social and outgoing.” Like Marthe, Kristin grew very close with the family, especially the Morris kids.

When Kristin left, Christensen once again said that they would never host a foreign exchange student again. But then from August 2012 through June 2013, they took in Marthe’s brother, Markus.

“Markus was more introverted,” she says.

“He was more interested in academics, and he wanted to live a year as an American teenager. But he wasn’t nearly as brave or outgoing as the girls.”

For the most part, Christensen says that they were home-free of difficulties with the students. “We had to occasionally force

Markus out of his comfort zone to get him to experience things. [Otherwise], all three had great English skills,” she says.

After seeing some of the other foreign exchange students secondhand, Christensen is very glad that she and her family hosted three very good kids. “Sometimes, [foreign exchange students] aren’t well-behaved.

They’ll get into drinking or drugs or break curfew. Other times, the families didn’t think about the commitment, and it’s a huge commitment.”

Clearly, the experience has been wonderful for the Christensen-Morris family, as they’ve even seen their students since. “We have seen Marthe every year. Last year, we traveled to Italy, and she met us there. Kristin came back over last year, and we met her parents in Chicago. We established a beautiful relationship with both families.”

Like the Christensen-Morris family, Trisha Powell of Bennington loves hosting foreign exchange students. She and husband Michael and their two kids, Olivia, 10, and Jace, 3 mos., have hosted six foreign exchange students from Germany, Sweden, Finland, The Netherlands, and Slovenia.

But Trisha and Michael aren’t just host » HerFamily • October 2013 23

cover feature

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« parents; they’re also very active in Ayusa International, a nonprofit organization that promotes cultural exchange programs for high school students around the world.

“We work with several families who choose to host year after year,” explains Powell. “We also ask our families to help refer other families who may be interested, [as] we are always looking for host families willing to open their homes and hearts to an Ayusa student.”

When a family is ready to host a student, a local Ayusa representative takes them through the application process to find and choose a good student match. The steps are: • View information online (at ayusa.org) about Ayusa’s program and types of students who are interested in living with a host family and spending a year in the United States.

• Complete the Ayusa online hosting application. Ayusa provides a list of questions, requests five references, and asks that families sign a program agreement.

• Once the application is submitted, an Ayusa representative assists with completion of the additional hosting requirements: a criminal background check and in-home interview. When a host family is approved, they may login to select a student.

Throughout the Ayusa exchange program, a local representative works with the family, student, and school to make certain the stay is mutually beneficial. “Students come from all over the world, [and] all of them come to experience the American way of life and a year in an American high school,” Powell says.

“American culture is often very different from what they are used to,” she adds. “Different food, different schools, a different way of life with a different family—[that] can sometimes be stressful for the first bit of time here.” But Powell says most foreign exchange students get used to everything after a while.

Powell highly recommends hosting a foreign exchange student.

“Many times, a lifelong connection is made with students and their families,” she says. “We have several American host families who will visit the student in their home country, attend graduations, and even weddings! Many students come back to visit their host families, too.

It’s a wonderful way to bring other cultures to your home and to share your cultures and traditions.”

Christensen also has great advice for families looking to host: • “Research the experience and the student thoroughly. Ask lots of questions of families who have hosted and select a student who will be compatible with your family.”

• “Make sure all family members are completely engaged and committed.”

• “Be flexible and compassionate. Remember, these kids are away from their countries, homes, schools, and families for 10 months.”

• “Be realistic. This is not always going to be fun and easy. Don’t host a student during a year that you know will be busy or hard.”

• “ Be open to learning more and loving more than you can imagine!”

Although Christensen says her family doesn’t have any plans to host another exchange student, never say never.

For more information about foreign exchange programs and Ayusa International, visit ayusa.org or call 888-552-9872.

24 HerFamily • October 2013

omahamagazine.com

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What’s Your Dinner Made of?

A delicious new take on a pizza, this recipe features grilled Sirloin steak, pesto, tomatoes and arugula atop your favorite pizza dough. Nutrients in every slice.

Pesto Steak and Arugula Pizza Total Recipe Time: 45-50 minutes • Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

1 beef Top Sirloin Steak boneless, cut 1 inch thick (1 pound) 2 tablespoons basil pesto 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 refrigerated whole grain, whole wheat or regular pizza dough (about 1 pound) Nonstick cooking spray

1 cup yellow and/or red cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or quartered if large ½ cup reduced-fat shredded Italian blend cheese Salt 1 cup arugula or baby spinach leaves ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)

Directions

1. Combine pesto and lemon juice in small bowl. Evenly brush beef steak with 1 tablespoon pesto mixture.

2. Place steaks on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, covered, 11 to 15 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill, 13 to 16 minutes) for medium rare (145°F) to medium (160°F) doneness, turning occasionally.

3. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 425°F. Spray 10 x 15-inch rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. Place dough on baking sheet and pat dough to edges of baking sheet.

Spread dough with remaining 3 tablespoons pesto mixture. Top with tomatoes and cheese. Bake in 425°F oven, 15 to 18 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

4. Carve steak into slices; season with salt, if desired. Top pizza evenly with arugula and steak slices; sprinkle with red pepper, as desired.

bestofomaha.com

BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com HerFamily • October 2013 25

fitness

story by Sarah Egan, BS, CPT, HKC, CES • photos by Bill Sitzmann • modeled by Shaela Bruce

5-Minute Workout Rockers

I

f you ’re looking to

tone your lower half, Rockers are great for targeting the inner and outer thighs, as well as the glutes. No weights are necessary for this exercise; however, if you would like more resistance, use a free weight around 10-15 lbs.

Sarah Egan Nebraska Elite Sports & Fitness Complex Personal Training Department Head BS, CPT, HKC, CES

1 Setup & Starting Position 1. While standing, spread your legs apart as wide as possible (if you use a weight, hold it close to your chest).

2. Sink into a low squat position, keeping your butt tucked down.

2 Exercise

1. Shift your body weight back and forth from the right leg to the left leg.

2. Repeat for 3 sets of 12.

Tip If the exercise seems easy, try stepping your stance out a little farther.

26 HerFamily • October 2013

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HerFamily • October 2013 27

food prepared by Bailey Hemphill • photo by Bill Sitzmann

Biscuits and Sausage Gravy

Ingredients: • 1 (16oz) can refrigerated jumbo buttermilk biscuits • 1 (9.6oz) package Jimmy Dean® Original Hearty Pork Sausage Crumbles (or sausage crumbles of your choice)

• ¼ cup flour • 2½ cups milk • salt • ground black pepper

Instructions: 1. Bake biscuits according to package directions.

2. Meanwhile, cook sausage, milk, and flour in large skillet over medium heat 5-6 minutes or until mixture comes to a boil and thickens, stirring constantly.

3. Reduce skillet heat to medium-low and simmer for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

4. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

5. Pour over cooked biscuits.

Source: allrecipes.com 28 HerFamily • October 2013

omahamagazine.com

feature story by Cherie Lytle, Children’s Hospital & Medical Center • photo provided by Children’s Hospital & Medical Center

Gluten-free Brownies

T

delicious treat that should please almost everyone in the family. Fudgy and rich, they’re also gluten-free!

For more healthy recipes, visit HealthyKohlsKids.com.

The Healthy Kohl’s Kids program is a partnership between Children’s Hospital & Medical Center and Kohl’s Department Stores to educate children and parents about healthy nutrition and fitness. hese brownies are a

Ingredients • ½ cup reduced calorie trans fat-free margarine • 5 oz dark chocolate chips • 2 eggs • 1 cup packed light brown sugar • ¼ cup brown rice flour • ½ cup almonds, processed into a fine meal/flour • ½ tsp salt • ¼ tsp baking soda • 2 tsp vanilla extract • ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts, optional • ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips, optional

Preparation 1. Preheat the oven to 350°. Line an 8 x 8-inch baking pan with foil and lightly coat with nonstick cooking spray.

2. In the microwave, melt margarine and dark chocolate chips in a large, microwave-safe measuring cup, in 20-second intervals, until melted. Stir until smooth. Set aside.

3. In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs until frothy.

4. Add brown sugar and whisk for 1 minute, or until the mixture is smooth.

5. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture into the egg-sugar mixture, and mix well for 1 minute, or until the chocolate is smooth and glossy.

6. In a bowl, combine rice flour, almond meal, salt, and baking soda; whisk together. Add to the chocolate mixture and mix well for 1 minute. Add vanilla and mix for 30 seconds.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Tap the pan on the counter to even out the batter.

8. If desired, layer nuts and/or semisweet chocolate chips over the top of the batter and press them in slightly.

9. Bake for 33 to 35 minutes or until the brownies are set. Cool on a wire rack; remove the brownies from the pan by gripping the foil edges. Chill before cutting.

Yield: 12 servings

bestofomaha.com

Nutrition Facts Calories: 235, Fat: 12g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Cholesterol: 29mg, Sodium: 234mg, Carbohydrates: 31g, Fiber: 2g, Protein: 4g * Nutritional information is based on ingredients listed and serving size; any additions or substitutions to ingredients may alter the recipe’s nutritional content.

HerFamily • October 2013 29

NEW 3D MAMMOGRAM TECHNOLOGY. GIVING WOMEN THE CLEAREST PICTURE OF WHAT HEALTHY LOOKS LIKE. Getting a routine mammogram is your first line of defense against breast cancer. And now, at Alegent Creighton Health, we’re expanding our services to include the most accurate imaging you’ll find in the Omaha metro area – 3D mammography. The perfect complement to traditional digital imaging, 3D mammography offers improved accuracy to patients with a family history of breast cancer or a past diagnosis. 3D imaging, in combination with traditional digital imaging, results in a significant decrease of false positive rates and better detects more invasive cancers. This leads to 40% fewer patient callbacks, which takes unnecessary anxiety out of the equation.

Saving lives is the ultimate goal and 3D mammography is just another example of how, when it comes to keeping you healthy, we are never standing still. Learn more at AlegentCreighton.com/3Dmammo.

30 HerFamily • October 2013

omahamagazine.com

feature story by Susan Meyers • photo by Bill Sitzmann

Breast cancer survivor Melissa Holm

Getting Through the Emotional

and Physical Challenges of Breast Cancer

E

ven when it ’s over,

it’s not over, says one cancer survivor, who recently completed her treatment. The emotional turmoil and lingering fear of what’s going to happen next—Am I really cured? Will it come back?—continue to haunt many breast cancer survivors during and well beyond the treatment process.

The fear was so overwhelming for 39-year-old Melissa Holm that she decided to have a double mastectomy. This was despite her doctor’s assurance that the cancer cells were limited to her right breast and the chance of the cancer spreading to the other breast was very slim.

“I didn’t want to live with that fear for the rest of my life,” says Holm, a mother of two young girls and a boy. “I just wanted them to take everything and start from scratch. I know others who have had a lumpectomy, and they worry before every appointment. My diagnosis » bestofomaha.com

“You go through a period where you don’t even feel like a woman anymore.”

- Melissa Holm

HerFamily • October 2013 31

feature “Women who are informed and have the facts also do better and make better decisions.”

Margaret Block, M.D., medical oncologist, Nebraska Cancer Specialists

Margaret Block, M.D.,

medical oncologist, Nebraska Cancer Specialists

« came after a year of watching. I didn’t want to continue that waiting game.”

“The number of women choosing double mastectomy over a lumpectomy has doubled from about 3 percent to nearly 6 percent over the last 10 years,” says Margaret Block, M.D., a medical oncologist at Nebraska Cancer Specialists. “We don’t really know why, but a lot of it may stem from the fear and anxiety following a cancer diagnosis.”

The fear and shock of a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, notes Patti Higginbotham, APRN, AOCN, nurse practitioner with the Alegent Creighton Health Breast

Health Center. “The first thought of 90 percent of women is that they are going to die.”

Even after getting through the initial shock, women still have to endure another year or more of treatment, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and breast reconstructive surgery.

For Holm, dealing with the loss of her breasts and then her hair were two of the biggest emotional challenges during treatment.

“You go through a period where you don’t even feel like a woman anymore,” she says.

Then, there was the constant fatigue, malaise, and missing out on her children’s

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“We’ve found that physical activity will help with the emotional [and] the physical side effects.”

Patti Higginbotham, APRN, AOCN, nurse practitioner, Alegent Creighton Health Breast Health Center

events, like plays, basketball and volleyball games, and school meetings. “I slept a lot on the weekends following chemotherapy,” recalls Holm. “My children barely saw me the entire weekend. Thankfully, my husband was there to take charge of the kids, but still care for me. He was my rock.”

While a cancer diagnosis is never easy, there are several steps women can take to help ease the physical and emotional impact of a breast cancer diagnosis, cancer experts say.

One of the most important of these is the support of family and friends. “Women who

try to do it alone usually don’t do as well physically or emotionally,” says Higginbotham. “Part of our makeup as women is that we need to talk about it. If you don’t have someone that you can lean on, we encourage women to seek support through a cancer support group, our social worker, nurse navigators, or other members of our staff. It’s also very important that you have a health care person you can connect with. If you don’t have that partnership, then maybe you have the wrong provider.”

“I couldn’t have made it without the support of family and friends,” notes Holm. »

Patti Higginbotham, APRN, AOCN,

nurse practitioner, Alegent Creighton Health Breast Health Center

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HerFamily • October 2013 33

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« “There is strength in numbers. They gave me strength through some of the most difficult times. I had to lean on so many people. I couldn’t have made it without all of their help.”

“Women who are informed and have the facts also do better and make better decisions,” says Block. “Faster is not always better. Once you get the diagnosis, you need to take some time to get through the initial shock and then ask questions and do some research. Otherwise, women tend to make decisions based on emotions rather than facts.”

“We encourage women to stay engaged throughout the entire process,” adds Higginbotham. “Ask a lot of questions, let us know if you are having side effects, ask what you can do for yourself, and seek support.”

Exercise, sleep, and good nutrition can also help with physical healing. “I remember the days when we suggested to women to take a leave of absence from work and to rest as much as they can,” says Higginbotham. “We’ve done a complete 360 since then. Now, we tell women to keep working if they want and to start exercising after surgery, as we’ve found that physical activity will help with the emotional [and] the physical side effects.”

Depression and anxiety are also “side effects” of breast cancer that should be discussed with your provider. “Women shouldn’t be afraid to seek additional help if they have a significant amount of depression and anxiety,” says Dr. Block. “Sometimes, an anti-depressant can help a woman get through a really difficult time. While most women experience depression and anxiety following a cancer diagnosis, studies show that depression diminishes after treatment and recovery.

Anxiety, however, can sometimes continue to linger.”

Life is getting back to normal for Holm. She completed breast reconstruction in late 2012 and says she is now focusing on turning her experience into a positive one by reaching out to others.

“I have volunteered to be a spokesperson for cancer survivors,” she says. “That regular interaction with other women and encouraging them to get mammograms or talking to women who are in the midst of treatment gives me strength.”

And she hopes to pass on some of that strength to others. “I’ve become a stronger person than I thought I was,” she says. “I have become more confident. I want to give other women hope—to let them know it isn’t easy, but you take one day at a time and count your blessings as you go.” omahamagazine.com

single parent

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- Anthony Robbins t ’s

boring , I know, but consistency is a keyword to success in single parenting. Some of us come by this naturally; to others, consistency represents an uphill battle, especially when managing all of the parenting responsibilities on your own. But like everything else you do, just a little extra effort can result in big rewards.

Success always starts with goal setting.

This can seem daunting because, when we first have our babies, we have grand plans and visions of them becoming great athletes or scholars, curing world hunger, and embodying powerful personalities with hearts of gold. And then you get into parenting, and you’re just glad that they can walk, talk, and clean their room. (Okay, most kids don’t clean their room. But when they do, it kind of feels like they cured world hunger.)

These are the goals that I have decided to make consistent in my family life: I want my kids to feel loved, so I make a point of setting aside time each day to tell them they’re special and priceless to me; I want them to look back at their lives and realize they felt safe, so I make sure that I do what I say I’m going to do to build security in them; I want to teach them responsibility, so I check grades every Sunday night to determine if they’re doing what they should be doing; I want faith to be a foundation for them, so we all go to church on Sundays, even when we don’t want to; I want them to live a healthy lifestyle, so we talk about portion control, and we go to the gym. Last but not least, I want them to be able to hold conversations with someone without looking at their phone.

Your idea of successful single parenting might be completely different than mine, but one thing is for sure—consistency is the key to parenting. Creating patterns and habits will determine who your kids will become.

HerFamily • October 2013 35

health extra story by Meghan Townley

ADHD

Correctly Diagnosing and Treating the Disorder

36 HerFamily • October 2013

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common neurobehavioral disorders found among children is Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). And rates are on the rise.

Dr. Ashley Harlow, psychologist at Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, believes that this spike in diagnoses is due to a combination of factors. “Parents, teachers, and [health care] providers are more aware of the signs and symptoms and, therefore, are investigating this diagnosis as a possibility,” he says.

Because ADHD is so prevalent, there is concern that children are being misdiagnosed.

Misdiagnosis can go many ways, explains Dr. Harlow.

“I think misdiagnosis is a problem, although I think it is important to consider misdiagnosis as both diagnosing another condition as ADHD and diagnosing ADHD as another condition.

“I see kids who have been diagnosed with ADHD because they do not like their teacher, they do not listen to their ne of the most

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parents, or they do not follow through on what their parents tell them to do,” says Dr. Harlow. “These behaviors do not necessarily indicate ADHD.” Also complicating the issue are instances where children have ADHD and are instead diagnosed with another disorder, like Autism Spectrum Disorder, or when high-school and college students use ADHD medication to support studying. “In these cases of students seeking study aids, misdiagnosis might occur because of misrepresentation of the symptoms by the patient,” adds Dr. Harlow.

Dr. Harlow says that visible signs of ADHD can include behaviors like “difficulty sitting still in the classroom, disorganization in completing homework or turning it in, making careless mistakes, staring off into space, interacting with peers in immature ways, or starting chores but not finishing them.”

Many children may demonstrate these behaviors, so Dr. Harlow advises careful consideration before jumping to conclusions. “[Health care] providers, in consultation with families, work to determine if enough symptoms are present and impairment is at a level to warrant a clinical diagnosis.”

The CDC states that “children with ADHD do not grow out of these behaviors.

The symptoms continue and can cause difficulty at school, at home, or with friends.”

Therefore, it is important to treat children who are afflicted with ADHD. Treatment of ADHD focuses on reducing the impact of the symptoms, not eliminating them. “It is important to remember that ADHD is a neurologically based disorder, and so improving behavior likely means learning to manage symptoms rather than removing the symptoms entirely,” explains Dr. Harlow.

He recommends a combination of medical and behavioral health interventions, including setting up the environment (classroom or home) to be predictable and organized for the child and to make consequences immediate and consistent.

Children’s Hospital & Medical Center offers FREE parent education sessions related to topics surrounding ADHD. For more information, visit ChildrensOmaha.org/BehavioralHealth. bestofomaha.com

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HerFamily • October 2013 37

Ayda, 6, and Ella, 8, wear lavendar and dusty-blue polka-dot jackets that transition well into the cooler months ahead.

38窶ォerFamily 窶｢ October 2013

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When the Weather’s Fine

Fall weather is often erratic. One minute, it’s warm. The next, it’s freezing. Rather than fight the change, embrace it with layers, patterns, and denim. photos by Bill Sitzmann modeled by Ayda, Ella, and Michael Borden of Omaha shot on location in Louisville, Neb.

Michael and Ayda wear plaid and striped shortsleeve tees that are perfect for hot autumn days.

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HerFamily • October 2013 39

Ayda and Ella wear pink and navy leggings, which pair nicely with long sweaters and boots.

40窶ォerFamily 窶｢ October 2013

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Ella and Ayda wear threequarter length sleeves with dark- and light-wash denim to keep warm on chilly days.

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HerFamily • October 2013 41

beauty story by Bailey Hemphill • photo by Bill Sitzmann

BB and CC Creams

These products are all the rage right now, but what exactly are they?

Y

the commercials with actress Kate Hudson and other makeupbrand personalities talking about their revolutionary BB and CC creams. You might also have thought, “I have no idea what those words mean.”

That’s because BB and CC creams are fairly new to Americans—or at least to most Americans in the Midwest.

The original version of what is now BB Cream was created in the 1960s by German dermatologist Dr. Christine Schrammek to protect and heal the skin of her patients. Eventually, the cream found its way into Korea and Japan in the 1980s and was advanced. In fact, BB cream became the well-kept beauty secret of many Asian celebrities. Now, however, these creams are a huge hit in practically every beauty market across the world, including our own.

Still, most people don’t exactly know what the creams are (or, more importantly, what they do).

Fortunately, Joel Schlessinger, M.D., FAAD, FAACS, of LovelySkin in Omaha has the answers.

First of all, BB Cream stands for “beauty balm,” and CC Cream stands for “color corrective.”

Again, these words might mean little if you don’t know what balms and color correctors do.

According to Dr. Schlessinger, BB is a multitasking cream that serves as a moisturizer, primer, foundation, and even sunscreen. CC also functions in several ways, providing the same benefits as BB but with an added bonus: color correction. For women with uneven skin tone, acne, or redness, CC seems to be the better option.

“CC creams can be very beneficial for acne-prone or oily complexions due to their lighter formulation and full coverage,” Dr. Schlessinger adds. “Investing in a good CC cream can shorten your daily routine, enhance your skin’s appearance, and prevent premature aging.”

So what’s the main difference between the two creams? “Coverage and weight,” says Dr. Schlessinger. “CC creams tend to be lighter with better coverage while BB creams are heavier and typically don’t offer full concealing benefits.” ou may have seen

42 HerFamily • October 2013

Of course, both save you money and time.

For example, one CC cream can replace foundation, moisturizing cream, facial primer, sunscreen, and concealer. Let’s face it—anything that shortens a daily beauty routine and lessens makeup expense is greatly appreciated.

Wondering where you can get BB and CC creams? Pharmacies, grocery stores, makeup outlets, skin care retailers, online shopping—they’re everywhere. Budget-friendly brands like Almay, Clinique, Garnier, and L’Oreal have begun releasing their own versions. Makeup store Sephora carries several professional makeup brands. And, of course, Dr. Schlessinger’s LovelySkin sells brands like Supergoop!, jane iredale, Stila, Dr. Brandt, Dr. Dennis Gross, and B. Kamins.

LovelySkin is located near Oak View Mall at 2929 Oak View Drive. For more information about these products, visit lovelyskin.com.

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auto care

story by Darcie Dingman

Deer Season

D

a very scary ordeal. More deer are out in the fall due to rutting, foraging, and hunting season, which increases the likelihood of running into one of these animals. Here are a few tips to avoid hitting deer: • Watch for deer crossing signs. They are there for a reason.

• Drive the speed limit and always scan both directions.

• If it is after dark, scan the sides of the roads for any eye reflection or body shapes.

• Use your high beams in unlit areas to give you a better view of your surroundings.

• Honk your horn when you see a deer in the roadway.

• If you see one deer, beware. There are probably more.

What happens if you do see a deer? Don’t panic. Step on the brakes but do not slam on them. Watch for vehicles following you as well. You don’t want to get rear-ended because you stopped suddenly. As you brake, make sure not to swerve and stay in your lane. Trying to completely avoid a deer hit can be even more dangerous if you run into oncoming traffic or a stationary object, like a tree or post. Right before coming into contact with the deer, let up on the brakes— this is supposed to slightly lift the vehicle, which may stop the animal from going into the windshield.

If an accident is unavoidable, pull over after contact (if possible) and put your hazard lights on. Put the headlights on the animal in the road. Do not try to move the animal.

This could cause serious harm to you. Call 911 and have the police come out and make an accident report. The authorities can deal with the deer.

Although fall is a prime time for deer to be out on the roads, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings. Deer can do a lot of damage to a vehicle and to its passengers. Be sure to buckle up and follow these tips. eer hits can be

Have your cake.

And eat it, too.

Dining. Family. Fun. Health & Beauty. Household. Retail. Services. Transportation.

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HerFamily • October 2013 43

EVEN

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44 HerFamily • October 2013

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Calendar of Events

Goose Bumps! The Science of Fear Photo provided by Durham Museum

Fall Chrysanthemum Show

Photo provided by Lauritzen Gardens

Keith Urban Light the Fuse Tour 2013 Photo provided by Omaha MECA

THROUGH JANUARY 5

Created by The California Science Center, Durham Museum presents the many sides of fear. Test yourself against four common fears. Observe how fear changes and learn simple ways to combat stress.

TU/10AM-8PM; W-SAT/10AM-5PM; SUN/1-5PM $9 ADULTS, $7 SENIORS (62+), $6 AGES 3-12, FREE FOR MEMBERS AND CHILDREN 2 & UNDER DURHAM MUSEUM, 801 S. 10TH ST. DURHAMMUSEUM.ORG 402-444-5071

OCTOBER 6 – NOVEMBER 24

See unique chrysanthemums, water features, trees, and more during this autumn-themed floral exhibition at Lauritzen Gardens.

DAILY/9AM-5PM $7 ADULTS, $3 AGES 6-12, FREE FOR MEMBERS AND CHILDREN 5 & UNDER LAURITZEN GARDENS, 100 BANCROFT ST. LAURITZENGARDENS.ORG 402-346-4002

OCTOBER 11-13

Shop boutiques, test products and services, and more at this special event just for women.

F/5-10PM; SAT/10AM-6PM; SUN/11AM-4PM CENTURYLINK CENTER OMAHA, 455 N. 10TH ST. JUSTFORHEREXPOOMAHA.COM

OCTOBER 11-27

The legendary tale bursts into fresh and fiery new life in this unique, fast-paced adaptation.

F/7PM; SAT/2&5PM; SUN/2PM. $18 GENERAL ADMISSION, FREE FOR MEMBERS. ROSE THEATER, 2001 FARNAM ST. ROSETHEATER.ORG 402-346-4849

OCTOBER 12 & 19

The 15th Annual Halloween celebration features haunted evening hayrack rides, a pumpkin-rolling and carving contest, campsite decorating contest, and much more.

PONCA STATE PARK PONCA, NEB. OUTDOORNEBRASKA.ORG 402-755-2284

OCTOBER 18

Four-time Grammy®-winner and American Idol judge Keith Urban is bringing his “Light The Fuse Tour 2013” to Omaha. Special guests include Little Big Town and Dustin Lynch.

7PM TICKETS FROM $37-62.

CENTURYLINK CENTER OMAHA, 455 N. 10TH ST. CENTURYLINKCENTEROMAHA.COM 402-341-1500

OCTOBER 18-19

Enjoy a night at the museum. Festivities include doughnut dunking, ghost stories in the town hall, fall games in the parlors of historic homes, horse-drawn wagon rides, food, and wandering spooks.

STUHR MUSEUM GRAND ISLAND, NEB. STUHRMUSEUM.ORG 308-385-5316

GOOSE BUMPS! THE SCIENCE OF FEAR

FALL CHRYSANTHEMUM SHOW

JUST FOR HER EXPO

ROBIN HOOD

HALLOWFEST

KEITH URBAN LIGHT THE FUSE TOUR 2013

ALL HALLOWS EVENINGS

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HerFamily • October 2013 45

Simplify your life by selling your less needed items.

Posh Peacock

Consignment Gallery Furniture & Home Decor ph: 402.933.9666 poshpeacock.net

Bel Air Plaza #704, 12100 W Center Rd.

HUSKER FILM NIGHTS REVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS WEEK’S GAME WITH COACHES COMMENTARY AND LIVE Q & A WITH HUSKER STAFF Starting Sept. 5th every Thursday night following a game doors @ 5:30p.m. | film @ 7p.m.

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5219 S. 53rd St. (52nd & Q) Omaha, NE 68117 46 HerFamily • October 2013

on the go! story by Chris Wolfgang • photo provided by Skinny Bones Pumpkin Patch

Skinny Bones

Family explores the corn maze at Skinny Bones.

Pumpkin Patch

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Skinny Bones Pumpkin Patch in Blair, Neb., is a family affair. Daughter Haley Bledsoe has designed the 10-acre corn maze (opened for the fall on Fri., Sep. 13) since its first season six years ago. “It’s hard to do,” says her mother, Maria. “I’ve tried.”

This year, the maze’s design showcases sheer complexity rather than an actual image to be seen from above. “You will absolutely get lost,” Maria assures, stating that she still can’t go through this year’s maze without getting turned around.

And that’s saying something because the Bledsoe family has been tending the maze since the beginning of summer. “We use twice the amount of seed as other mazes,” Maria explains, adding that most cornfields are planted in just one direction. “We plant in two directions for a really thick corn maze, so you can’t see your neighbor on the next row.” The field is entirely organic, and cultivating the maze involves old-school techniques.

“We map it on a grid, and then we count the rows, using stakes and chalk spray,” Maria says. No GPS here. “After the corn is two or three inches tall, we mow the paths with a riding mower.” A dragger rides behind the mower, getting rid of any stalks. Continued mowing and dragging throughout the summer makes for smooth, compacted paths.

“We wanted to be known as the most manicured maze around,” Maria says. “You he

think of a corn maze, and you think of ruts and bumpy ground and how you can’t take your stroller over that. We wanted to do something different.”

When the corn is 13 to 14 feet tall, all seven Bledsoes take corn sickles to the maze, trimming leaves that have grown into the paths and hand-pulling any stalks that might have been missed. At least, it used to be that way. Maria says they’ve had to hire help for the last three years, what with the growing business and some of the children going to college and overseas.

But some traditions never die. Saturday nights, for example, are always haunted at Skinny Bones. Brave guests traverse the maze guided only by moonlight (“We confiscate flashlights,” Maria says), knowing costumed actors roam the maze ready to deliver a good scare. Nothing is sacred, not even the hay rides. Is it kid-friendly? “That’s up to the parent,” Maria defers. “Some kids absolutely love it.”

For parents who think their children might appreciate a tamer atmosphere, Maria suggests Friday nights. Flashlights are welcome, no scarers are present, and there’s even a children’s maze this year. It’s about a 10th the size of the original.

For a full list of attractions and pricing, visit skinnybonespumpkinpatch.com. omahamagazine.com

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