Oregon Family Magazine by Oregon Family Magazine

HOME SPRING

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DIY TO SPRINGTIME INCREASE ALLERGY VALUE RELIEF

MAKING A FAMILY MOVE

I S S U E

HOME SPOTLIGHT Q&A

Annual Wellness visits protect you and your child from preventative diseases and more. If you’ve put off your family’s annual well checks during the pandemic, it’s time to get caught up. You can count on us to always care for you safely. Not yet a patient? We’re welcoming new patients now!

10 Locations • Pediatrics, Family Medicine and 20+ Specialties 541-242-4444 • OregonMedicalGroup.com 2

O R E G O N F A M I LY . C O M

APRIL 2021

Eat Smart, Waste Less A family of four could save up to

$125 A Month

new! TRIPLE PEPP!

by eating the food they buy.

Eat Smart, Waste Less provides tips and strategies on menuGiant Pepperoni, Premium Pepperoni, Mini Cup Pepperoni, Red Sauce, planning, food purchasing, cross-utilization of food, and Mozzarella on our Original Crust storage and preparation practices all aimed at preventing wasted food and the related costs. For more information, $ visit LG

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Home bake a Giant Pepperoni, oni, Red Sauce,scratch-made Original Crustpizza in just

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Large Hawaiian or 2-Topping Pizza Canadian Bacon and Pineapple or two of your favorite toppings with Red Sauce on Thin Crust

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Large Cowboy Pizza

Large 5-Meat Stuffed Pizza

with Red Sauce on Original Crust

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IN-STORE ORDERS ONLY Order at PapaMurphys.com

3 OFF

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PEPPERONI: Offer valid for Large Pepperoni pizza on Thin or Original crust only. No substitutions. Additional charge for addiXLNY tional toppings. Available at participating locations for a limited time. Not valid with any other offers, promotions or discounts.

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Large Chicken Garlic Pizza

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Expires 12/4/2019. Limit 1. Not valid with any other offer. Valid only at participating locations. LSM-04 1882-041320 Coupons cannot be sold, transferred or duplicated.

Limited time offer. Limit 1. Limited time offer. Limit 1. Pepperoni, Mushrooms, Not valid with any other offers, promotions or discounts. Valid at Not valid withSausage, any other offers, promotions or discounts. Valid at XLNY Giant . participating locations. Cannot be sold, transferred or duplicated participating locations. Cannot be sold, Blend transferred or duplicated. Black Olives, Cheddar, Herb & Cheese Pepperoni LSM-04

Chicken, Bacon, Artichoke Hearts,Artichoke Spinach, Parmesan, Zesty Chicken Bacon Herbs, Mozzarella, Creamy Garlic Sauce on Thin crust. Choose

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u bake it to perfection.

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EAU CLAIRE • 715-835-3009 LAKE HALLIE • 715-738-1165 Expires 12/4/2019. Limit 1. Expires 12/4/2019. Limit 1. Not valid only atCommercial participating locations. Not valid withWalmart any other offer. Valid only at participating locations. 2123 Brackett Ave • next to Kwik Tripwith any other offer. Valid3042 Blvd • across from Coupons cannot be sold, transferred or duplicated. Coupons cannot be sold, transferred or duplicated. EAU CLAIRE 715-552-1931 MENOMONIE • 715-233-1380 XLNY• Three $12 TUESDAY: Offer available at participating locations for a limited time on Tuesday only. In-store Family Size prices may XLNY Giant Pepperoni 3587 Gateway DrCheese • across from Target 2321 Hwy 25 N • near Walmart Gourmet Delite® vary. Includes Signature, Gourmet Delite®, Fresh Pan, Stuffed, or Create Your Own pizza up to 5 toppings; topping additions to & Sausage Family Size Pizza HOLMEN • 608-526-6221 ONALASKA • 608-779-5505 SBP-09 924-OF082918 SBP-09 1588-OF082918 recipe pizzas will result in additional charges. Chicken Bacon Artichoke Pizza 515 Amy Dr • Holmen Square 1220 Crossing Meadows Dr • near Gander Mountain Limited time offer. Available only on New York Style crust in the X-Large size. X-large is served on a Family Size tray. No substitutions or additional toppings. Available at participating locations. Not valid with any other offers. Discount off regular menu price. Chicken, Bacon, Artichoke Hearts, Spinach, Parmesan, Zesty LA CROSSE • 608-793-1000 Excludes SPRINGFIELD FAVES®, XLNY® and Friday pizza deals. • 541-744-2475 SPRINGFIELD • 541-741-8886 1820 Jackson St we welcome at participating locations Herbs, Mozzarella, Creamy Garlic Sauce on Thin crust. EUGENE Choose • 541-686-6615

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APRIL 1563-041320

2021

ANY LARGE PIZZA

1810Large Olympic St •Size. Mohawk Shopping Rd • In Sheldon Plaza from or Family Discount off regularCtr menu1508 price.Coburg TRIPLE PEPP: Offer valid for Large Triple Pepp pizza on Thin or Original crust only. No substitutions. Additional charge for additional toppings. Available at participating locations for a limited time. Not valid with any other offers, promot

$10 TUESDAY: Offer available at participating locations for a limited time on Tuesday only. In-store Family Size prices may vary. Includes Signature, Gourmet Delite®, Fresh Pan, Stuffed, or Create Your Own pizza up to 5 toppings; EUGENE • 541-344-5189 we welcome at participating topping additions to recipe pizzaslocations will result in additional charges. ©2020 Papa Murphy’s Internation ONLINE 1711 Willamette St CODE C2006 or IN-STORE

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O R E G O NLSM-04 FAM I LY . C O M 1882-041320

17-2880-ORGNFMLY-XLNY3_9

OREGON FAMILY

contents HOME 10

SPECIAL ISSUE

7 8 10 14 15 16 18 22 23 24 26 28

FAMILY HEALTH Getting in the Zzzzz’s LET’S GO!! Budgeting for Vacation

HOME SPECIAL FEATURE DIY to Increase Home Value

HOME SPOTLIGHT Q & A Expert Q&A Panel

HOME Spring Allery Relief HOME DIY for Budget, Planet, and Home HOME Making a Family Move HOME Title and Escrow 411

7 8

EARTHTALK™ Passive Solar PARENTINGNOW™ Reading Babies Cues

SUMMER CAMP DIRECTORY

18 24

MOVIE REVIEWS Kids: Flora and Ulysses Parents: Minari

RESCUE SPOTLIGHT Kitty: Jinsoon Doggie: Spenser

SUMMER

CAMP DIRECTORY

O R E G O N F A M I LY . C O M

APRIL 2021

In times of sickness and wellness, we are with you every step of the way.

Karen Ortiz, M.D., F.A.A.P., brings genuineness and compassion to each patient visit and strives to help children and their families be well, physically and emotionally. Proficient in medical Spanish, Dr. Ortiz recognizes that each family is unique and focuses on building lasting relationships, from birth through young adulthood.

To schedule an appointment, call 541-HUG-KIDS. 995 Willagillespie Road, Suite 100 • 541-484-5437 • www.EugenePeds.com

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Our Contributors 1

28 YEARS

Oregon Family Magazine is distributed monthly, year-round via direct mail into homes in greater Lane County, and at high-traffic commercial locations, including Eugene, Springfield, Coburg, Veneta, Elmira, Cottage Grove and Creswell.

PUBLISHER Pacific Parents Publishing EDITOR Sandy Kauten GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT Springer Design & Illustration ADVERTISING Christi Kessler • 541.484.0434 christi@oregonfamily.com

1. GEORGE BOSCH George Bosch is the Proprietor of Oregon Escrow Services. He has 25 years experience in Title and Escrow transactions including seller carrybacks, sales and refinances of commercial, residential, manufactured home and business sales. He is involved in the Oregon Escrow Council, Huerto De la Familia (Community Gardens Project), Buena Vista Spanish Immersion Parent Organization and loves spending his days keeping his 10 year old entertained AND educated. 2. PILAR BRADSHAW, M.D., F.A.A.P. Dr. Pilar Bradshaw practices the full spectrum of pediatric medicine, seeing patients from birth to young adulthood. Named as 1 of 7 “Favorite Pediatricians” by Parents magazine, she believes in the ability of parents to embrace the joys and challenges of raising children. 3. SARAH GRIMM Waste Reduction Specialist for Lane County Public Works, Waste Management Division, Sarah has managed the division’s waste prevention and recycling outreach for over 15 years. Prior, she was Education Coordinator for BRING Recycling and delighted in teaching the joys of creative reuse and resource conservation. Outside work Sarah is an enthusiastic gardener, flyfisherwoman and cook.

4. BONNIE HARRIS Bonnie is Oregon Family Magazine’s resident Movie Review Master Extraordinaire. She enjoys watching movies of all kinds, and has been doing movie reviews for over 9 years and counting. She lives in Eugene with her family, enjoys gardening and cooking. 5. SARAH LYONS Sarah Lyons is a writer and proud mom of six, including six year old triplets. In her limited free time, she enjoys reading, writing, cooking, and spending time outside. 6. JAN PIERCE Jan Pierce is a retired teacher and a writer who specializes in education, parenting and family life features. She is a Pacific Northwest native who loves reading, gardening and playing tennis. She is the author of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun. Find Jan at www. janpierce.net. 7. RODDY SCHEER Journalist and photographer specializing in environmental issues, the outdoors and travel. When he is not out in the field taking pictures, Roddy runs EarthTalk, the non-profit Publisher of the syndicated EarthTalk Q&A column and the EarthTalk.org and Emagazine.early childhood teacher and mentor. She lives in Eugene with her family where she enjoys outdoor adventures.

Sandy Kauten • 541.683.7452 sandy@oregonfamily.com OREGON FAMILY MAGAZINE P.O. Box 21732 • Eugene, OR 97402 541.683.7452 Email: info@oregonfamily.com Web: www.oregonfamily.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/OregonFamily

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1993 Opinions expressed by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily the opinions of this publication. © 2021 Pacific Parents Publishing. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without prior expressed written permission from Pacific Parents Publishing.

O R E G O N F A M I LY . C O M

APRIL 2021

Fostering Healthy Sleep Habits

BY PILAR BRADSHAW, M.D., F.A.A.P.

EUGENE PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES

e often hear from parents who have questions about sleep. How much sleep should my child be getting each night? How can I help my child who’s struggling to fall asleep? Why doesn’t my child stay asleep?

HOW MUCH SLEEP DO KIDS NEED? Sleep is important for learning and memory, mood regulation, physical growth, and a healthy immune system. How many hours your child needs changes as they grow: • Infants (4-12 months): 12-16 hours, including naps • Toddlers (1-2 yrs): 11-14 hours, including naps • Pre-schoolers (3-5 yrs): 10-13 hours, including naps • Grade-schoolers (6-12 yrs): 9-12 hours • Teens (13-18 yrs): 8-10 hours Structure during the day and night is key to healthy sleep. Following consistent times for waking, naps, playtime and studying helps promote better sleep at night. Getting an hour of physical activity

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each day, preferably outside in the fresh air, also aides in better sleep. Bedtime should also involve a consistent routine: • Turn off all screens two hours before bed. • Finish homework at least an hour before going to sleep. • Take a warm bath or shower to calm your brain. • Read quietly, then lights out. Most kids should be able to fall asleep within 30 minutes.

HELPING A TROUBLED SLEEPER If your child is waking frequently during the night, anxiety or a busy brain may be the cause. Talk to your child about how they are feeling in the night when they are awake. What are they thinking about? If it’s scary thoughts, try writing them down before bed to “put their worries to sleep.” If their problem is that they can’t turn off their busy thoughts, try a more calming and structured bedtime routine. If that doesn’t work, talk with your pediatrician. Melatonin should not be used as a sleep aid without first talking to your child’s doctor about dosing and duration of treatment. ✦

HOW TO PLAN FOR A

Future Vacation

fter a long year stuck at home, many people are dreaming about when they can travel once again. While counting down the days may feel like torture, planning and booking a vacation for later this year can give you something to look forward to. Now may be the perfect time to start

thinking about your next adventure. Consider these tips for planning a future trip – even if you’re not certain exactly when you’ll take it.

RESEARCH TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS For any kind of travel, it’s important to make sure you’re up to date on any restrictions your potential destinations may have in place. Though the vaccine may help lessen restrictions in some places, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintain updated guidance and travel warnings based on the risk level of certain areas, which can help you make decisions. Once you’ve booked travel plans, it is prudent to check in frequently as your trip approaches and prepare a backup plan.

ACCOUNT FOR HIGH DEMAND Many hotels, vacation rentals and resorts may already be booked for summer in popular locations due to optimism around the vaccine, increased demand for domestic travel and families planning multiple trips this year. In fact, travelers are locking in private Vrbo vacation homes at top summer destinations earlier in 2021. Less than half of vacation homes in some locations are still available for July, which is a more than 25% increase in demand year-over-year. To better your odds of securing your desired travel dates, accommodations and activities, booking earlier can help off-set the increased demand.

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APRIL 2021

“In years past, we’ve recommended families book their summer vacations by late April to stay ahead of the curve, but this year there are several reasons why families are eager and ready to book,” Vrbo President Jeff Hurst said. “These signs are telling us families should start looking for the perfect vacation home now before options become more limited.”

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF DEALS WITH LONGER STAYS Many sectors of the travel industry offer special deals for reserving trips in advance, and some of the best deals can be found by bundling airfare and lodging or booking extended week- or month-long stays. These longer vacations can lead to fewer available dates to choose from, but some travel companies offer search filters that help travelers find discounts for staying longer periods of time.

OPT FOR FLEXIBLE BOOKING If you’re eager to plan a vacation right away, be sure to review and understand cancellation policies for your preferred accommodations, airline and activities. Many have changed their policies due to the pandemic, so be sure to know how long you have to cancel or change dates without incurring additional fees or penalties. For example, when booking a vacation rental through Vrbo, where hosts set their cancellation terms, you can use the “free cancellation” filter to search for properties with flexible policies, some of which allow cancellations up to 14 days before check-in for a full refund.

START SAVING NOW While it may not be practical for everyone to save money amid uncertain times, setting even a small amount aside for your vacation can be worthwhile. Consider setting up a dedicated travel savings account or directing the change from each transaction made with your debit card to a separate account. Being able to periodically check the balance of the account can also help increase excitement for your upcoming adventure. ✦ Find more tips and start planning your next getaway at Vrbo.com. Photo courtesy Getty Images. By Family Features.

The Shedd Institute www.theshedd.org - 541.434.7000

The John G. Shedd Institute for the Arts

Community Music School Classes & private lessons for all ages � Contact the registrar today! � 541.434.7000 / registrar@theshedd.net

The Music Box! M/W/F from 3-5:30 pm, Tu/Th from 3-4:30, Tu-Th from 4:30-5:30pm Class size limited to 10 students per section. Sign up any time!

Private Lessons Mon-Friday 9 am - 6 pm

Begin any time. Online available.

APRIL 2021

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MARIACHI del Shedd

(Intro: Tuedays 4:30-6p, Advanced:Fridays 4:30-6p)

DIY TO

IDEAS

Increase YOUR HOME’S VALUE

O R E G O N F A M I LY . C O M

APRIL 2021

ow as much as ever, your home may be a sanctuary for all kinds of expression, from thinking and dreaming to working and playing. Over the past year, homeowners began to consider the intersection of function and design in new ways.

Weekend warriors are dedicating themselves to creating more organized living spaces and making their homes better places for learning, working and living. If you’re considering upgrades to your home, consider these DIY ideas from the experts at Royal Building Products that can increase beauty and resale value.

Home Office

PENDING MORE TIME AT home may mean storage space is at a premium, especially if you’re relying on a makeshift home office. You can add a high-impact and functional element to your office with a built-in bookcase or workstation. Consider your materials carefully since they have a big impact on your final results. For example, a versatile alternative to wood is synthetic polyvinyl chloride (PVC) trim, which you don’t need to sand or prime before painting, ultimately saving time, energy and money. While PVC is slightly more expensive than some wood options, it also requires less maintenance long-term.

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Bathroom

Y UPDATING WORN-OUT ITEMS, modernizing fixtures and creating a more functional space, you can expect to recoup up to 50% of a bathroom’s remodel cost, according to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. If you’re considering an ontrend look like shiplap, a practical solution like Royal prefinished PVC Shiplap can help create a clean, comfortable space. It’s waterproof, mold resistant, flexible and works well in spaces with many slants and angles. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to install.

Entryway

HOME’S FOYER OFFERS THE first impression of its interior, teasing the personality of architecture and decor found with each step deeper inside. Whether bold and dramatic, tranquil and serene, or something in-between, the entryway often sets the tone for a home’s ambience. Details like decorative molding and lattice trim can create a striking entryway for almost any home style.

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APRIL 2021

Exterior

HETHER YOU’RE SPRUCING UP an outdoor living space or simply want to boost curb appeal, subtle enhancements can make a big impact. For example, board and batten shutters offer an attractive, low-fuss way to highlight your home’s windows. Painting the front door is another low-cost way to freshen up your exterior. Or invite a touch of nature by adding flower boxes to your front porch or windows. ✦ Find more creative inspiration, tools, tips and practical steps for every level of DIY-er at buildroyaldiy.com. By Family Features. Photos courtesy of Honey Built Home

SELECT A TRIM STYLE TO MATCH YOUR HOME STYLE The right style of trim can transform a room into a whole new space. A good rule of thumb is to keep the style of trim consistent with your home style and from room to room. CRAFTSMAN. The craftsman home style pairs well with simple, tailored and purposeful doors and minimally ornamented window casings while white, light beige and cream-colored crown moulding can create roomier spaces. COLONIAL. This home style’s rustic simplicity and rich detail call for interior trim that lends a touch of stately courtliness. Choose multi-piece trim and wider baseboards, wainscoting and crown moulding to adorn family room floors, walls and ceilings. CAPE COD. This practical and quaintly unassuming design can be accented by subtle interior trim such as transom windows and sidelights that surround multi-paneled entry doors, casings for double-hung windows, picture rails and frame walls. MODERN. The clean expansiveness of this home style lends itself to unadorned window and door casings as well as baseboards. You can go minimalist and use trim merely to protect walls and floors. Alternatively, you could rely on trim to create an appealing contrast with the wall colors. RANCH. Open, informal and inviting, this style needs trim work that flows from room to room. Many styles work, from simple baseboards to more formal trimmed windows and cabinetry in the kitchen, fireplace mantels in the family room and passageway casings.

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S P R I N G H O M E S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

home spotlight Q&A RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL GARAGE DOORS

Is there a way to see what a new garage door would look like on my home?

Yes!! Our mobile Doorview Garage Door Designer App is available for i-Pad and Android Tablets, on Apple App Store & Google Play. The visualizer tool is built for the most Paul Burrell common garage door sizes, and can show you many different styles and colors on your home! https://www.overheaddoor.com/garage-door-designer

R E A L E STAT E

at is Help-U-Sell and what do you do?

We are a full service brokerage with licensed Realtors. The only difference is our fee structure, which results in our clients saving thousands of dollars in commissions without sacrificing service Lona Murphy or results. In the event a client is already matched up with a buyer or a seller, we assist, as a neutral party for a low set fee. We believe clients should have options and only pay for the services needed. Lona Murphy Real Estate Group Office: 541-461-6100 Cell: 541-206-4837 www.helpuselloregon.com See ad on page 21.

Overhead Door Co. of Eugene-Springfield™ Years in Business: 99 541-686-8144 • www.overheaddoor-eugene.com See ad on page 17.

H O M E R E PA I R & C O N T R A C T I N G

Why doesn’t my door shut properly?

A: Rob Dannemiller

The problem could be the result of out of level floor framing, an improper initial door ‘set’, hinge screws may be loose, door latch may be faulty, edge insulation is faulty, or swollen wood may be present. It’s a ‘look, feel, check’ situation. Rob Dannemiller Construction 541-914-0071 See ad on page 19.

DANNEMILLER CONSTRUCTION 14

TITLE & ESCROW SERVICES

Do I need to do maintenance on my Air Conditioning and Heating System if it’s working fine?

YES! Even though your air conditioner, furnace, heat pump, ductless and gas fireplace are working fine…this doesn’t mean they are. It's often the most expensive George Bosch equipment in your home so maintenance is critical. To extend operating life, heating/cooling equipment should be serviced at least once a year to ensure it operates safely, at maximum efficiency, and to manufacturer’s specifications. Oregon Escrow Services 541-530-0001 info@OregonEscrowServices.com www.OregonEscrowServices.com See ad on page 19.

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APRIL 2021

S P R I N G H O M E S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

Spring Has Sprung AHH… CHOOO! BY LISA BRUCKNER

PRING IS HERE IN the Willamette Valley, which means….it’s also Allergy Season! Warmer days (and nights) means your home no longer requires as much heating, and will most likely need some cooling to help sleep comfortably at night in the months ahead. However, when the windows are opened for cooler, fresh air - eyes start to water, throats start to burn, coughing beings, and wheezing can occur… all thanks to pollen from the outside, coming in. And in early spring, you don’t always feel these symptoms right away; they can, and often do, build up over time. You might wake up with a stuffy nose, cough, or sore throat after breathing allergens all day and night. Allergy symptoms can be worrisome too because many resemble Covid-19 symptoms. But help is on the way! Did you know a heating and cooling system helps filter the air you breathe and can – if regularly maintained (checked, cleaned, and tuned) help improve indoor air quality during allergy season? Running a dirty system, especially with a dirty filter, not only lowers the quality of air you breath, but also forces the system to work harder and less efficiently. Working harder (imagine trying to breathe through a pillow) adds stress to the system, which can lead to component or system failure – usually when you need it most. Regular maintenance includes spring preventative maintenance with a professional HVAC Technician to get your system checked, cleaned, and tuned for optimal use and efficiency. For people with allergies, asthma,

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or air quality concerns, having air ducts cleaned adds extra benefits. For a deeper dive, and whole-home air purification system can bring even more relief. Many air purification systems can be installed right into your existing furnace, ductwork, or ductless system and help improve the entire home’s indoor air quality. These systems reduce dust, capture and/or neutralize allergens, pollutants, bacteria, and viruses - including Covid-19! Air duct cleaning is a great way to remove dust, dirt, and grime that has built up (particularly after wildfires) and not only helps improve indoor air quality, but also improves the efficiency of your heating/ cooling system responsible for receiving and pushing air. If the technician you hire utilizes a remote control camera, they can also visually inspect accessible air ducts and check for damage, rodents, or mildew situations.

Many also offer to sanitize ducts with a sanitizing agent. Springtime is when many air conditioning and heat pump manufacturers and dealers offer incentives, rebates, and special financing. If your home doesn’t have A/C, and you suffer from allergies, now would be a great time to add it or upgrade an old system to a highefficiency heat pump that offers both heating and cooling. One of the top prescribed remedies from Allergy Doctors is to run the A/C in your home and car to help filter out allergens from the air you breathe. ✦

This information and recommendations are contributed by Marshalls Heating, Air Conditioning, Insulation and Fireplaces in Eugene, Oregon.

S P R I N G H O M E S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

THE 3 R’S

for DIY Around the Home BY SARAH GRIMM

RE YOU PLANNING ON improving living areas or landscapes this spring? Well, don’t break the bank! Here our Waster Reduction Specialist from Lane County Public Works, Sarah Grimm, offers tips to save money, while also REDUCE pollution and environmental damage— which, also helps protect our children’s future health and wellbeing. Instead of buying a tool to complete just one task, borrow one from a friend or neighbor. This not only saves money, but reduces clutter in your garage and reduces pollution caused by buying a new item. Local rental companies have an amazing selection of tools, both large and small; consider this option for any tool or equipment you’ll only use once a year or less. Better yet, check out Toolbox Project at www.

eugenetoolboxproject.org …a tool lending library with just about anything you might need, from basic pliers, hammers, shovels, and drill bits, to clamps, apple presses, string trimmers and lighting. Membership is easy and fees are on a sliding scale—everyone is welcome! For renovation projects that involve purchasing structures or supplies, consider the benefits of reuse. RE-USE can add special character and personality to a renovation—whether it’s a bookcase, fireplace mantle, tile, or material for a garden path. Good options include Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore, BRING Recycling, or local thrift stores. Also, Craigslist, The Freecycle Network, Next Door, and Facebook Marketplace all have buy, swap, trade, or free items to review before heading out to buy new.

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APRIL 2021

S P R I N G H O M E S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

When it’s time to clean up, use the swap or donate websites mentioned above to give away or sell usable lumber, furniture, house parts, even dirt and concrete chunks! Leftover house paint can be recycled for free at most paint stores or at the Glenwood transfer station. Similarly, fluorescent bulbs and short tubes are accepted at many lighting and hardware stores and the Glenwood RECYCLING area. For larger tubes or paint cans that are rusted, or the label is unreadable you may need to make a hazardous waste appointment. While you’re at it, this is the best disposal option for any other chemical products you may have - but no longer need. It’s easy and free—download the new WasteWise Lane County app, go online at www.lanecountyor.gov/wastewise or call 541-682-4120. Lane County has recycling requirements Glenwood Transfer Station for loads of construction debris are over 6 cubic yards. These loads must be either sorted for recycling (i.e., wood, brush, metal, cardboard) before dumping; or they must be delivered to a sorting facility such as Ecosort. An easy approach is to load your vehicle with non-recyclable wastes on the bottom, then load wood and brush, then metal, and then cardboard. This way when you arrive at the transfer station recycling area, you can offload items following the flow of traffic before you get to the garbage pit. You’ll find a quick “know before you go” video for the Glenwood transfer station at www. lanecountyor.gov/waste Incorporating an eco-friendly lifestyle into your home is easier than you think, and especially rewarding if you have young children.

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Reusing what you have, sharing leftovers with others, and creatively adapting materials for reuse rather than buying new—these are not only good ways to save money, they also build community and reduce global pollution. ✦

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Spring Cleaning

FAMILY STYLE BY JAN PIERCE, M.ED.

pring is a time of renewal and fresh starts and it’s a tradition in many homes to do a thorough spring cleaning. Historically the long, dark months of winter also came with soot and grime from fires, candles, kerosene and other alternatives to today’s electricity for heat and light. Still, we long for a clean sweep of clutter and dirt. Since every member of your family enjoys the benefits of living in a comfortable home, they also have the responsibility to help keep their home in good shape. Why not enlist everyone to get into the act—do a family-style spring cleaning. It might even be fun. Here is a list of typical cleaning and organizing tasks needed in most homes. You’ll want to tailor your project to the specific needs of your family. And, don’t forget to include some fun times in this family project too. Plan a favorite easy dinner, a picnic, and add a movie or game night to celebrate when the tasks are done.

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TASKS TO DO IN A THOROUGH SPRING CLEANING PROJECT:

REORGANIZE CLOSETS. This is a good time to clear out old clothing, shoes, and general junk that is no longer needed. Putting down a washable liner on shelving is also a nice touch and will help to keep the shelving clean in the future.

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

GO THROUGH BATHROOM cupboards to dispose of old or expired medications. Declutter and reorganize drawers. CLEAN THE KITCHEN cupboards and sanitize the refrigerator. Throw out expired food items and purge excess storage containers. GO THROUGH LIVING and dining areas to dispose of clutter. Clean and vacuum carpets. Replace frayed area rugs.

CHECK THE BATTERIES in smoke alarms and be sure that fire extinguishers are in working condition. Replace light bulbs in lamps and fixtures. WASH BEDDING INCLUDING mattress pads and see if new mattresses or pillows are needed. Clean flooring or carpets of bedrooms and bathrooms. CLEAN OR VACUUM draperies or curtains throughout the home.

AS YOU CLEAN, make a list of any repairs or replacement items that need to be addressed in the future.

In times past, spring cleaning meant pulling up carpeting, taking it outdoors to air and be beaten clean, then retacking it to flooring. The dust and accumulation of dirt and grime was cleaned away, including washing walls and woodwork. It was a big job, but a satisfying one. While we may not need to pull up carpeting or wash walls, a brisk day of family cleaning will lift everyone’s spirits, and as you celebrate with pizza and a good family movie, it will feel like a “job well done.” ✦

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Making the Move EASING TRANSITIONS BY SARAH LYONS

HETHER ACROSS THE COUNTRY or just across town, moving is a big adjustment for everyone in the family. Children can feel overwhelmed and uprooted because they are rarely in control of a decision to change homes, neighborhoods, or schools. Here are some tips to help parents support their kids through a transition.

together. Give them the opportunity to talk through their feelings and make sure that know they have permission to be sad, angry, excited, or scared, sometimes all at the same time!

TALK IT OVER

TAKE A TOUR

As early as possible, start preparing your child for the move by letting them know where, when, and why you are making the move. Let them know you understand that this may be upsetting or scary to them, but it is also an exciting and a fun adventure you will do

When house hunting, try to involve your kids as much as possible. This will help them feel a part of the decision. Let them tour possible homes with you and give their opinions. If this is not possible, let them have input into decisions after you have it narrowed down to a few

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APRIL 2021

S P R I N G 2021 H O M E S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

contenders. Give them the chance to pick bedroom and play spaces. Some kids may enjoy decorating or adding new pieces to their room while others prefer keeping familiar things from the previous home.

MAINTAIN ROUTINES

Once the move is complete, it is important to maintain similar routines as the previous house. This will help kids feel safer in their new environment. Parents should also be aware that regression in potty training, behavior, and sleep are totally normal for kids to go through when they are experiencing significant transitions in their lives. Try to be consistent and patient while they adjust to their new surroundings.

Moving is a challenge, not only for the kids, but for parents too. Try to set an example for your kids by acknowledging sad feelings while keeping a positive attitude and embracing your new neighborhood. It can also help to explain that while the place you live may change, the important things won’t - your family will be together, and you will always love each other no matter where you live. ✦

FOSTER FRIENDSHIPS

One of the most positive things about moving is the opportunity to make new friends. Parents can make moving easier by helping their kids meet new people. Host a playdate, get involved in sports or other activities, take a plate of cookies to the neighbors, and introduce yourself to other families at the neighborhood park. It can be hard for kids (and parents) to step out of their comfort zone but once you have made some friends and acquaintances it is easier to feel at home in a new place. Parents should also encourage their children to continue friendships from their previous home as much as possible. Just because there is more distance between friends does not mean the relationship has to end.

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Why Title and Escrow Are Important When You Buy, Sell, or Refinance BY GEORGE BOSCH

HEN A REAL ESTATE transaction occurs, an owner’s title policy is issued to the buyer at closing and a lender’s policy is issued if a lender is involved for a purchase with loan or a future refinance by the borrower. In a sale, the sale agreement specifies by Statute that the seller is providing free and clear title to the property. The escrow officer is the person responsible to clear the title report issued in a transaction and works to make sure anything that needs to be addressed to transfer title cleanly is handled property. Escrow is the process of taking all the necessary steps to close a transaction and be sure none of these situations affect your homeownership. Title Insurance is the mechanism to protect the buyer and the lender from the following examples:

1 2 3

DEED OR MORTGAGE in the chain of title may be a forgery. DEED OR A mortgage may have been made by someone incompetent to sign.

DEED OR A mortgage may have been made by a person other than the owner, but with the same name as the owner.

4 5

DEED OR MORTGAGE may have been procured by fraud or duress.

6 7

TITLE TRANSFERRED BY an heir may be subject to a federal estate tax lien.

TITLE INSURANCE PROTECTS against claims made by non-existent or divorced “wives” or “husbands.”

AN HEIR OR other person presumed dead may appear and recover the property.

A JUDGMENT OR levy against the seller may be voidable due to a defect in the court case.

9 10 11 12

TITLE INSURANCE COVERS attorneys’ fees and court costs. BY INSURING TITLE, you can eliminate delays in the sale process. TITLE INSURANCE REIMBURSES you for covered losses.

TITLE INSURANCE IS a one-time charge paid up front, good for as long as your heirs own the property. These are just 12 examples why title and escrow are so important. Every situation and transaction are unique, so talking with a qualified specialist could save you hundreds of dollars. George Bosch is the owner at Oregon Escrow Services and closes residential and commercial real estate transactions, seller carrybacks, manufactured home sales, business sales and specialty escrows. If you have questions regarding a transaction, or to learn how you can save up to 25% on escrow fees, George can be reached at 541-530-0001 or info@oregonescrowservices.com ✦

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What is a so-called “passive solar” house and can I retrofit my existing house accordingly?

Earthtalk

DEAR EARTHTALK

— BILL C., RALEIGH, NC

APRIL 2021

Darmstadt, Germany. This three-story home was designed from the ground up with thick walls and copious amounts of efficient insulation, and no holes large or small where hot air could escape. The Feist house was also designed to be free of any potential “thermal bridges,” where heat could travel through walls to get outside, unlike conventional homes which are framed with wood 2x4s and 4x4s with insulation laid or sprayed in between. Conventional framing typically comprises about 25 percent of the interior walls’ surface area. Unlike the insulation around it, the framing sections provide zero insulation value and therefore act as thermal bridges whereby hot air can escape. Passive houses, on the other hand, are designed with solid slabs or with denser framing materials to cut off this insidious form of heat loss. Siting is also a major design consideration for any passive solar house. Picking a spot that can harvest lots of sunlight (via large south-facing tripleglazed windows) and also take advantage of neighboring shade (like large trees and buildings) to cool the structure off in the heat of summer is also key. Indeed, it is of paramount importance to the building’s success in

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maintaining consistently comfortable indoor air temperatures without electricity or gas/oil no matter the weather outside. Another important aspect of the passive solar design is the incorporation of some kind of heat recovery ventilation (HRV) system that can let fresh air into the building without letting any of the heat out. Given all of the design, siting and construction factors involved, it’s usually not practical to convert a preexisting conventional house into a passive solar one. But that said, there’s no reason not to upgrade what you can at home to at least take advantage of increased efficiencies where it’s

PHOTO: INTERNATIONAL PASSIVE HOUSE ASSOCIATION.

PASSIVE SOLAR HOUSE IS typically designed from scratch factoring in several considerations to boost the structure’s ability to naturally keep the interior living spaces a comfortable air temperature without using conventional emissions-spewing HVAC appliances. The concept hinges on having lots of insulation, no air leaks, and large, strategically-oriented south-facing windows that “collect” heat energy (in the form of sunlight) during the day and store it in “thermal mass” (concrete slabs, brick walls, tile floors or other building materials with heat retention capacity). This stored solar energy is then naturally distributed throughout the interior space by natural convection caused by ventilation and the dynamics of colder and warmer air reacting differently to gravity. While the concept has been kicking around since at least the 1950s, it wasn’t until 1991 that Dr. Wolfgang Feist, an Austrian physicist and subsequent founder of the Passivhaus Institut, turned the dream into a reality with the design and construction of the world’s first passive solar house in

easy and get as close to passive solar as possible. Upgrade your insulation. Plug holes and other air leaks. Put weather-stripping around doors and windows. The list goes on... While you might not be able to do any and everything to make your house greener, remember that a walk of 100 miles starts with one step. ✦ CONTACTS: Passive House Institute, passivehouse.com; Passive House Accelerator, passivehouseaccelerator.com; International Passive House Association, passivehouse-international.org. EarthTalk® is produced by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss for the 501(c)3 nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at https://emagazine. com. To donate, visit https//earthtalk.org. Send questions to: question@earthtalk.org.

Dr. Wolfgang Feist and family pose in front of the world’s first passive solar house, constructed in 1991 in Darmstadt, Germany.

CAREFULLY OBSERVE YOUR BABY. When you first notice that your baby is crying or starting to fuss, pay special attention and ask yourself, “What led to this and how can I help?” How long since their last feeding? Do they need a diaper change? Have they been in one position for too long?

What is Your Baby Telling You? READING YOUR BABY’S CUES BY PARENTING NOW

ach baby is unique and special. Yet, all babies have a lot in common—they all have basic needs, like the need to eat and sleep. Infants also need to feel connected and this will contribute to a strong bond with their parents. Lastly, babies need to learn and master new skills such as making sounds and moving their bodies. But sometimes as parents, we don’t know what our baby is trying to tell us. The good news is that babies are born with everything they need to communicate their needs, which they feel as discomforts. They can fuss, squirm, cry, move their arms and legs, turn their head to look for food, suck, and much more. Babies have a mystery of their own. They are learning to communicate their needs, and we are learning to figure out what they are saying. We cannot always find the answers in a baby book. In order to figure out what our baby needs or wants, we have to become a baby detective.

AVOID JUMPING TO CONCLUSIONS. The next step is to avoid jumping to conclusions. While it is helpful to go through the typical checklist (hungry, tired, wet, etc), it’s important to be sensitive to what your baby is saying. Sometimes the communication is verbal and sometimes it’s not. When you respond—whether it’s through touch or words—sensitively and quickly to meet your baby’s needs, you are teaching them to trust you and know you are there for them when they are having a hard time. They are learning that their world is a safe place, and they are important. LOOK FOR PATTERNS. Does your baby act this way during a specific time, such as after a nap, or being fed? Observing these patterns (or even writing them down) will help you understand your baby’s behavior and how you can support them now and in the future. MAKE AN INFORMED GUESS AND TEST OUT YOUR HUNCH. After you have observed your baby and looked for patterns, you can now make an informed guess and test out that hunch. For example, if you notice that your baby starts to fuss after eating, you can use what you have observed to make an educated guess and test it out - such as burping your baby after you feed them. It’s time to put on your detective hat and solve the mystery. See what you can learn about your mysterious incredible infant!

WHAT IS A BABY DETECTIVE?

A baby detective is someone that observes their baby’s cues (which you can think of as clues) and uses those clues to figure out what their baby needs. Sometimes these clues can be obvious and sometimes they can be subtle. There are numerous ways a parent can become a good baby detective.

Want to learn more about infant development? Register for the next Incredible INFANTs parenting group starting April 5) by emailing enroll@parentingnow.org or calling 541-434-4343.

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