Nature All Around Us was developed by the Natural History Museum of Utah, in collaboration with the Science Museum of Minnesota. Support for NAAU's national tour was provided by My Good Fund and the JoAnne L. Shrontz Family Foundation. Exhibition presented in English and Spanish.
blueberry
18 Finding your village
Never underestimate the power of support groups for new moms. Having a baby is a game changer and taking care of a baby is a 24/7 job. That’s in addition to your already busy schedule. Find other moms. You are not alone on this journey. Building your village can be a lifeline.
20 Self-harm and teens
Self-harm among teens is probably more common than you think. This coping mechanism is often used to cover emotional pain. One contributing factor could be social media and the unhealthy role it plays in teens’ lives. Learn signs and symptoms of self-harm and how to help teens regulate social media.
SPECIAL SECTION
Nibbling sweet grass
JEEZ, READING KATIE’S TIME OUT TALE flooded me with memories, especially the part about going for a hike. She talks about how her ideas and plans don’t necessarily line up with what her expectations are. Be sure to read it and I hope I don’t spoil it.
We have two children, who are adults now. When they were kids, we loved to camp and hike and boat. Andy was not, should we say, destination oriented. Andy was the in-the-moment kid. No puddle was too small to play in, no bug too boring to pass up, no rock too dull to examine, and no stick too sharp to swing around.
I, on the other hand, was very much about setting a plan, getting to the top, seeing all that we could see in my set timeframe. Aly, Andy’s sister, was much more on my wavelength. I had very little patience for Andy’s dawdling at everything “of interest.”
One time we were camped right at tree line off the trail to Jewell Lake in the Colorado State Forest State Park on the other side of Cameron Pass. I considered it a small miracle that we had made it up there with our backpacks.
The next afternoon, as I trotted up to Jewell Lake, Andy found a rock to sit on—for hours. From this rock, he watched pikas as they gathered grass, which they carried into holes between the rocks. He pointed out how there were sentry pikas who seemed to watch out for danger. He knew their routes, how they greeted each other and what they were gathering.
I appreciated him and what he was doing but I also looked longingly across the cirque at
the trail snaking up mountainside toward Clark Peak.
Fast forward thirtysome years and I find myself in a similar situation with our nearly 4-year-old grandson, Fin. Turns out that he’s a dawdler too. Everything seems to catch his interest. He doesn’t hesitate to sit down on the trail in the middle of a walk to pile up gravel and then spread it back out and maybe throw some.
It’s like Groundhog Day, except the lesson that I am supposed to learn is to take it as it comes and enjoy every moment, I’m thinking. And you know what, I can and do, most of the time. It is so much easier now because when it’s my turn to play with Fin, that’s what I’m doing, playing with Fin. I don’t have the million other responsibilities that day-in, day-out parenting requires. Being a grandparent is, in fact, as great as they say it is, if for no other reason than that we’re much more able to be fully present with our grandkids than we were, it seems, with our own kids.
To jump back to Katie and her thoughts, I’m reminded of my favorite Billy Collins poem.
My Hero
Just as the hare is zipping across the finish line, the tortoise has stopped once again by the roadside, this time to stick out his neck and nibble a bit of sweet grass unlike the previous time when he was distracted by a bee humming in the heart of a wildflower.
Thanks for nibbling this bit of grass, Scott
MAY 2025 • Volume 28, Issue 12
PUBLISHER
Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210
scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com
EDITOR
Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210
kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Emily Zaynard
emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com
ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR
Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832
greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
Susan Harting susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com
COVER PHOTO istock photo
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Theresa Baer, Lea Hanson, Katie Harris
ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING PO Box 740 Fort Collins, CO 80522 Voice 221-9210 • Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com
IN NORTHERN COLORADO, food insecurity during the summer months is a significant issue. According to Feeding America, approximately 1 in 7 children in Colorado face hunger, and this problem becomes more pronounced when schools close. The Colorado Department of Education reports that more than 40 percent of
students in the state qualify for free or reduced-price meals during the school year, but only about 15 percent of those children receive meals through summer meal programs. Additionally, a study by the National Summer Learning Association found that low-income families often spend 25-40 percent more on food during the summer due to the absence of school meal
Lunch Lab: Free Lunch for School-Aged Kids
Beginning May 27, the Lunch Lab food trucks will start their daily rounds at multiple sites in Fort Collins and Loveland (and the immediate, surrounding communities) to provide both hot and sack meal options for kids’ lunches. Additionally, they partner with fun community organizations to provide activities to keep your kids well-fed as well as engaged. In compliance with USDA standards, lunches must be eaten on site. Locations are listed below, but you must view the online schedule to know which day and at which time the Lunch Lab will be serving lunch at each location. View locations at: www. foodbanklarimer.org/the-lunch-lab/
Poudre School District Summer Meals
www.psdschools.org, then search for free summer lunch programs.
Poudre School District is feeding kids this summer*...for free! Any child, aged 18 and younger, in Larimer County can receive free meals this summer from 11:30am to 12:30pm, on weekdays, June 3-Aug. 2 at Linton Elementary School or Bauder Elementary School. Meals will be provided to all children at no charge and are the same for all children regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability, and there will be no discrimination during the meal service. Adults may purchase a meal for $4.65. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. *Meals will not be served on June 19, July 4 and July 5.
programs. This gap in access to food is especially challenging for families in rural areas of northern Colorado, where transportation to meal sites can be limited, and local resources are scarce. Despite efforts by many local organizations, the demand for summer food assistance continues to outpace available services.
Weld County: Free Summer Feeding Program
Weld Food Bank’s summer feeding program is targeted at children who are at risk for hunger over the summer months. These are typically children who receive free or reduced-cost school meals during the school year but are left without this reliable food source during the summer months. The Weld Food Bank partners with members of their local community to support and maintain their distribution sites. The meals are prepared in their commercial kitchen and safely transported to the feeding sites. View locations here: https://weldfoodbank.org/ child-feeding-programs/
Thompson School District (TSD) Summer Food Program kicks off soon and offers free meals at three locations in Loveland and Berthoud to ensure kids have nutritious meals they will love, but also easy to take on the go. From May 27 until the end of July, caregivers can feed their kids when affordable lunches are not as accessible. Check the website for location updates.
Colorado Adventures—Sand dunes, zip lines, wildlife and more
WARMER WEATHER HAS FINALLY ARRIVED, making this month the perfect time to pack up the kids and hit the road for a close-to-home family adventure. From sledding the continent’s tallest dunes to trekking across a 1,000-foot high suspension bridge, Colorado’s great outdoors offers something for everyone.
https://royalgorgebridge.com/
www.fws.gov/refuge/rocky-mountain-arsenal
Just 10 miles northeast of downtown Denver lies a nature preserve teeming with wildlife. Open from sunrise to 8pm, the refuge features 20 miles of easy hiking trails where visitors may spot bison, deer, raptors, songbirds, waterfowl, prairie dogs, and coyotes that call the area home.
In addition to hiking, Rocky Mountain Arsenal offers opportunities for bicycling, photography, seasonal fishing (for a fee), and archery at its onsite range. The Visitor Center invites guests to explore the region’s wildlife and vegetation more deeply, learn about the refuge’s conservation efforts, and participate in the Junior Ranger program. Alternatively, visitors can take in the scenery from the comfort of their car on the 11-mile Wildlife Drive while listening to the Refuge Podcast, available on the website.
Great Sand Dunes
www.nps.gov/grsa/index.htm
Built in 1929, the Royal Gorge Bridge towers 956 feet above the Arkansas River, offering sweeping views for miles. Having withstood the elements, including a 2013 wildfire and wind gusts exceeding 100 mph, the bridge serves as a feat of early 20th Century engineering and remains a popular destination today.
If walking across the 1,257 wooden planks of America’s highest suspension bridge isn’t enough to draw you to Cañon City, the attractions that await you on the other side just might be.
At the far end of the bridge, visitors will find a park filled with adventure. Older kids (and adults) can enjoy the sky coaster, zipline, and gondolas, while younger visitors can explore Tommy Knocker Playland, complete with climbing structures, slides, gold mining, and a carousel.
May is arguably the best time of year to visit Colorado’s Great Sand Dunes, thanks to Medano Creek reaching its peak flow this month. While the occasional snow shower is still possible, most days bring mild temperatures in the 60s and 70s—ideal for wading or even tubing in the creek. In some years, small waves even form along the sandy banks, adding to the fun.
Visitors should come prepared to get wet, as crossing Medano Creek is the only way to reach the main attraction—the tallest sand dunes in North America. Spanning 30 square miles and containing approximately 1.5 cubic miles of sand, the dunes are best enjoyed by sand sled or sandboard, both of which can be rented in nearby towns. While there are no marked trails through the dunes, hikers often enjoy climbing and exploring the ever-shifting landscape. Beyond the dunes, the park also features grasslands, wetlands, forests, alpine lakes, and tundra. Popular hikes through these regions include the shady Montville Nature Trail and scenic Mosca Pass Trail. Other favorite activities include four-wheel driving on Medano Pass Primitive Road, camping at Piñon Flats Campground, and stargazing under the park’s famously dark skies.
Read 12 books in a year with Adults Read On and earn prizes! Ages (16+) can participate by picking up a paper log at any branch, by downloading the Beanstack Tracker App and following the instructions, or by visiting highplains.beanstack.org/reader365 . For more details, check out www.MyLibrary.us/aro.
Favorite Things
Packing hacks for a day at the water—Everyday items that make water fun easier
TAKING YOUR KIDS TO THE POOL OR BEACH can be a blast—until you realize you forgot something crucial. Parents won’t often forget the basics and the standards. Things like sunscreen, goggles, and towels won’t go overlooked, and let’s face it, there is probably already a pool bag in your house that just holds these items all the time. But there are a few lesser-known, genius hacks that can make your outing smoother, cleaner, and way more fun. Here are three creative items, each with a clever twist, that you should pack next time. And they are things you already own…. So there is no need to purchase a new gadget in your effort to minimize hassle and maximize fun or organization.
Mesh Laundry Bag— The ultimate sand and toy tamer
A cheap mesh laundry bag (the kind you use for cleaning undergarments and stuffed animals) doubles as a genius beach toy carrier. Instead of lugging plastic buckets and shovels in a bulky bag, toss them in this breathable, flexible mesh sack. The real hack? When you’re ready to leave, give it a good shake, and all the sand falls out before you toss it in your car. No more half the beach coming home with you. Plus, the mesh lets all of the items air-dry, which means fewer chances of funky mildew smells. Bonus: due to its light weight, your kids can gather and carry it themselves.
Fitted Sheet Hack—Instant sand-free play zone
Here’s a parenting beach trick that always turns heads: pack a fitted bed sheet. Yes, seriously. Lay it down upside-down on the sand, then place heavy items like bags or a small cooler in each corner to prop the sides up. Boom—you’ve just created a mini, sand-free playpen. It keeps snacks, babies, and dry clothes from becoming sandy messes. It’s easier than a pop-up tent, gives kids a defined play space, and it’s super satisfying to set up. Add a waterproof liner underneath if you’re poolside and want to stay extra dry.
Frozen Aloe Vera Cubes—Instant sunburn soothers & cool-sown
treat
Instead of just packing plain water or drinks, freeze aloe vera gel in silicone ice cube trays the night before. Keep them in a small cooler with your snacks. These little cubes double as skin soothers if your kiddo gets too much sun, and they feel amazing when rubbed on the back of the neck or arms to cool down. For extra fun, add a drop of lavender or peppermint essential oil (diluted properly) for a mini aromatherapy moment. Way more effective—and soothing— than lugging around a bottle of after-sun lotion.
Explore the Four Corners: Sand dunes, cliff dwellings, petrified trees and more!
FROM HIKING THE RIM OF A CRATER to peering over the edge of a 6,000-foot deep canyon, our May road trip is all about adventure. If you haven’t yet visited the Four Corners region, let our tried and true itinerary be your guide!
Day 1
Break up the day’s drive with a stop at Great Sand Dunes National Park, home to the tallest dunes on the continent. One of the highlights of visiting in May is the chance to wade, tube, and play in Medano Creek at the base of the dunes, before making your way up to explore (www.nps.gov/grsa/index.htm).
Continue on to Durango, CO for the evening where a lovely downtown with plenty of dining and lodging options awaits you.
Day 2
Make the 30-minute drive to Mesa Verde National Park for a ranger-led tour of 800-year-old cliff dwellings, built by the Ancestral Pueblo people of the area. The tour includes a look at the largest-known cliff dwelling in North America, Cliff Palace. Tours require guests to ascend a series of ladders. Those with physical limitations can enjoy the more accessible trails throughout the park (Tours begin for the season on May 6th. www.nps.gov/meve/index.htm).
From Mesa Verde, cross state lines into Arizona for a visit to Petrified Forest National Park. Two-hundred-million-year-old petrified trees create a prehistoric landscape ripe for exploration. Hike the lessthan-a-mile Giant Logs and Crystal Forest trails for up-close views of the logs, then head over to the one-mile Blue Mesa and Painted Desert Rim Trails to take in the Painted Desert portion of the park (www.nps.gov/pefo/index.htm).
The next stop on your route is Meteor Crater Natural Landmark, just an hour’s drive from Petrified Forest. Here you can walk along the edge of a mile-wide, 550-foot deep crater, formed by a large meteorite over 50,000 years ago. Afterwards, check out the on-site Discovery Center and Space Museum to learn more through hands-on displays (www.meteorcrater.com). We recommend a short drive to Flagstaff, AZ for overnight lodging.
Day 3
The next morning, it’s off to the South Entrance of Grand Canyon National Park, just a 30-minute drive from Flagstaff. Start out at the Visitor Center, and from there take a walk along the Canyon Rim Trail for your first views of the mile-deep canyon. Next, venture out on the Trail of Time, where each meter walked represents one million years in the canyon’s geologic history, interpreted through signs along the way (www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm).
Drive 2.5 hours north toward the Utah border, stopping at Horseshoe Bend where a 1.5-mile round trip hike will lead you to a scenic cliffside perfect for snapping a few photos of the iconic landmark (www.nps.gov/glca/planyourvisit/ horseshoe-bend.htm).
If you’re able to snag an advance reservation, a climb down into gorgeous Antelope Canyon will be one of the most unforgettable stops on your trip. The canyon, which sits on Navajo tribal land, is only accessible through a guided tour (https:// navajonationparks.org/guided-tour-operators/ antelope-canyon-tour-operators/).
Lodge in Page, AZ for the night.
Day 4
On the final day of your trip, spend some time at nearby Lake Powell before completing your loop back to home. Rent a boat, go for a swim, or simply explore the shoreline. The sandstone canyons are teeming with nooks and crannies waiting to be discovered. Due to fluctuating water levels, be sure to call ahead or check the website for closures (www.nps.gov/glca/index.htm).
The power of support groups for new moms FINDING YOUR VILLAGE
THE POSTPARTUM STAGE AFTER BRITTANY BARON’S THIRD BABY is one she remembers vividly.
“I started spiraling—but not in any of the ways I expected,” she says. “I didn’t feel sad. I wasn’t crying all the time. Instead, I felt a relentless pressure to keep it all together.”
Baron was determined to prove she could still juggle it all—work, home, friendships—on top of being a mom of three. But underneath it, she was crumbling.
“I didn’t feel ready to let go of anything,” she says. “But I also wasn’t willing to give myself grace.”
With no family nearby and most of her friends in a different stage of life, Baron felt completely overwhelmed and utterly alone.
“I didn’t recognize it then,” she says. “But I was in the thick of postpartum anxiety. And what I needed more than anything was support.”
THE IMPORTANCE OF CONNECTION
Becoming a mom is a transformation no one can fully prepare you for. It’s life-altering, beautiful, chaotic, and, often, deeply lonely. Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom trying to survive snack time or a working mom navigating pumping schedules and daycare drop-offs, the physical and emotional demands of motherhood can pile up fast.
The postpartum phase in particular brings unpredictable hormones, sleep deprivation, and an identity shift that can feel disorienting.
During this stage, feelings of isolation and self-doubt are common. That’s why building a village—however small or simple—can be a lifeline.
“It’s so important to have someone to talk to, seek advice from, and let you know you’re not alone,” says Jennifer Griffiths, Parent Café Supervisor at The Matthews House in Fort Collins.
DIFFERENT WAYS TO FIND SUPPORT
The good news? There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to finding your people. Whether you’re craving deep conversation or just some adult interaction during a stroller walk, there’s likely a group for you.
Community and nonprofit groups like The Matthews House offer Parent Cafés that are open to all caregivers.
“We serve everyone—from new moms to grandparents raising kids,” explains Griffiths. These groups include childcare and a meal, and feature peer-led discussions on topics like emotional resilience and parenting confidence.
Hospital or clinic-run support groups, like the UCHealth Family Medicine Center’s Postpartum Support Group, offer
KATIE HARRIS
targeted support for those navigating postpartum depression or anxiety.
You’ll also find options through faith-based organizations like The Mom Co., fitness-based groups like Fit4Mom, and local Moms Clubs, which host everything from coffee meetups to playdates.
Even casual hangouts like library storytimes, recreation center open gyms, or toddler music classes can spark meaningful connections.
Then there are more organic spaces—like Marley and Moose in Berthoud, where Baron turned her personal experience into something that now supports other moms.
“After realizing I had taken on too much and wasn’t setting human expectations for myself, I left my career, we moved across the country, and we started over,” she says.
By the time she was pregnant with her fourth, Baron had clarity: she needed a village. And when she couldn’t find one, she built it.
She began posting in local moms’ groups on social media— offering to meet at parks and bring the coffee. Bit by bit, it worked.
With her own community forming, Baron began dreaming up a bigger way to support other moms. She opened Marley and Moose, an eco-friendly children’s store in Berthoud—and built a space for connection right into it.
“We offer a drop-in moms group every Thursday from 11am to 1pm,” she says. “The ages and turnout vary, but one thing never changes— it’s a judgment-free space.”
TAKING THE PLUNGE
It’s normal to feel nervous about putting yourself out there, but starting small can make a big difference.
Griffiths suggests researching groups ahead of time, calling to ask if someone can greet you, or even bringing a friend if it helps
ease the nerves.
“If I’d known what was available when I was a first-time mom, and had someone to talk to before I went,” she says, “I think I would’ve felt so much more comfortable.”
And if the first group doesn’t feel like the right fit? Try another—or start your own, like Baron did.
Each group has its own rhythm. Some are structured, like The Matthew House’s Cafés, which focus on key protective factors for families. Others, like the Marley and Moose Thursday group, are more relaxed—a space to vent, laugh, or simply not feel alone.
A good group won’t bombard you with advice—it’ll offer shared experience and understanding.
“Sometimes people aren’t looking for solutions,” Baron says. “They just want someone to say, ‘I see you. This is hard.’ That’s what our patio is for.”
YOU DON’T HAVE TO DO IT ALONE
Motherhood can be sacred and exhausting, joyful and isolating—all in the same day. But it was never meant to be done alone.
Whether it’s a weekly meetup with a dozen moms or a quick coffee with one new friend, having a village changes everything.
“Two summers ago, we had a crew of 16 brand-new moms,” says Baron. “Now, two years later, six of them are still best friends. They go to each other’s birthday parties, play soccer together, and are now helping each other through baby number two.”
What you gain from a group might not be what you expected. It might be friendship. It might be laughter. It might just be the relief of hearing someone else say, “Me too.”
So reach out. Try a group. Or start one if you need to. There’s a community out there waiting to meet you—just as you are.
SUPPORT FOR MOMS IN NORTHERN COLORADO
FIT4MOM Northern Colorado www.noco.fit4mom.com/
Stroller fitness classes where moms can connect and socialize, with occasional play groups and mom’s nights out.
Marley and Moose Moms Group www.marleyandmoose.com
A relaxed meetup space for moms to drop in and connect each Thursday from 11am-1pm.
The Matthews House Parent Café www.thematthewshouse.org
A support group featuring mentor-led discussions, open to all parents and guardians, and offering both Englishand Spanish-speaking groups. Childcare and a meal are included in each session.
The Mom Co. www.themom.co
Local chapters offer faith-based but open-to-all meetups for moms of infants through kindergarteners.
MOMS Club
www.momsclub.org
Local chapters offer weekly playdates as well as mom’s nights out and are primarily geared toward parents of children ages 0-6.
UCHealth Moms Group
www.uchealth.org
Support groups for moms of infants
Self-harm and teens
It’s more common than you think
Lynn U. Nichols
IF YOU HAVE A PRETEEN, especially with a cell phone, chances are they’ve learned about self-harm. Ten or 11 is the average age a child is first exposed to the concept of self-injury, according to current research from the University of Georgia. It’s an uncomfortable truth that some preteens and teens harm themselves.
You might be tempted to think it’s the rare teen who does so. Yet, research on selfharm shows that nearly one in six teens in the U.S. harm
themselves. Self-harm is defined as hurting yourself deliberately. Common methods of self-harm are burning or cutting skin. Sadly, there’s information on social media platforms and the internet that teach kids how to do it.
“Self-harm is a maladaptive coping mechanism, similar to drinking or using drugs. Adolescents might not like how they are feeling, so they self-harm to feel differently. Often, physical pain is more manageable than emotional pain,” says Bree Emery, MSW,
LCSW with Emery Counseling in Fort Collins who specializes in treating body image, eating disorders, trauma, molestation, sexual assault, accidents, depression and anxiety.
The more kids are on social media, the more they are exposed to all types of content, including content on self-harm. The University of Georgia study analyzed Instagram hashtags to see how prevalent information on self-injury is – and the results are shocking. They found over
Helping your teen regulate their social media use
It’s a good idea to have an open discussion with your teen about social media. Ask them how they feel after being online. More positive about themselves or less? Better or worse? Happy or grumpy? Ask if they ever see things that make them feel uncomfortable and offer to talk about them. Even if your child isn’t visiting negative sites, like those instructing on self-harm, social media might be causing them to self-judge or compare – or be a source of bullying. If they recognize that social media isn’t always healthy for them, talk about ways to handle it or limit it.
Explore the idea of phone-free spaces, like keeping their room free of phones, tablets, or gaming, especially at bedtime. Decide time limits on social media together – an hour a day on weeknights and two on the weekends? Your child might be willing to set alarms on their apps to help them stay on track to stick to these times. If they help decide how to cut back, they will be more likely to stick with the plan.
1.2 million posts with such hashtags as #hatemyself and #cutting.
“The studies on social media and self-harm are inconsistent, so it’s hard to say there’s an obvious connection. Yet, the affect that social media has on
increased mood disorders, depression, and anxiety is pretty clear,” Emery says. “And the timing for a teen’s heightened interest in social media is hard, especially in middle school, which is such a time of natural selfconsciousness.”
As a parent of a child who cuts or burns, you might be tempted to grab your preteen’s phone and smash it. While it’s not a bad idea to limit social media and regulate your child’s time online, it’s more important to help your child identify why they self-harm in the first place, and help them heal the pain that’s driving their desire to do so.
“Self-harm is a symptom of emotional pain,” Emery says. “In therapy, I help identify the pain that’s driving it, whether it’s school stress, identity issues, trauma, or a mental health issue. Then we work to heal their pain.”
Emery says that not all preteens and teens who self-harm need therapy. In middle school, kids can learn about it and decide to copycat it. Once they try it, more often than not they quickly decide they never want to do it again. But sometimes, they discover it helps them feel better.
“With cutting and other forms of self-mutilation, parents assume their teen is suicidal and go into crisis mode. But cutting is different than wanting to die. It’s really a way of trying to cope,” she adds. “We don’t want them to stop coping. We just want to replace it with a method that’s not harmful.”
If you’ve noticed cuts on your teen or pre-teen’s arms, are finding bloody tissues in the trash or noticing
blood spots in the shower, it may be time to explore if your teen is cutting. Also, if they are only wearing long sleeves or long pants even in the summer, it might be a sign of cutting. Another sign is skipping gym class and chances to get in a pool. Emery points out that access to sharp objects is often easier than access to other unhealthy coping mechanisms, like drugs and alcohol, especially for younger teens.
When discovering the self-harm behavior, Emery advises parents to do their best to resist acting shocked or reacting strongly. It’s fine to say that you are scared, but then ask open-ended questions and share honest concern. Don’t worry about being wrong. Bringing it up will not make them start if they haven’t already.
“Approach the conversation with concern, love, and curiosity. It’s okay to say, ‘I’m scared, but I want to understand. Can you share why you do this?’ Let them know you are here to help and reassure them that they are not in trouble,” Emery says.
Be gentle with yourself and go slow. After all, this is stressful, not straight-ahead parenting. If you focus on your concern for your child and set aside your anger, sadness, or shock and stay open, you will be able to navigate this with your teen.
Growing Season 2025
Berthoud’s Fickel Farmers Market
Fickel Park, 620 Mountain Ave., Berthoud Saturdays, beginning June 14, 9am–1pm www.berthoud.org/1430/The-Berthoud-Market
Erie Farmers Market
Briggs Street between Wells and Moffatt, Erie Thursdays, 5–8pm, May 15–Sept. 18 www.realfarmersmarketco.com
Estes Valley Farmers Market
Visitor Center, 500 Big Thompson Ave., EP Thursdays, 8am–1pm, June–Sept. www.facebook.com/EstesValleyFarmersMarket
Farmers Market at Fairgrounds Park 700 S. Railroad Ave., Loveland Sundays, 9am–1pm, June 1–Sept. 28 www.cityofloveland.org/farmersmarket
Fort Collins Farmers Market
1001 E. Harmony Rd., FC (rain or shine) Sundays, 10am–2pm, May 4–Nov. 9 Wednesdays, 10am–2pm, June 4–Sept. 24
8101 S. Timberline Rd., Fort Collins www.coloradofreshfarms.com
Desiderata Ranch
4617 W. CR 2, Berthoud www.desiderataranch.org
Folks Farm & Seed
2917 S. Taft Hill Rd., Fort Collins www.folksfarmandseed.com
Garden Sweet
719 W. Willox Ln., Fort Collins www.gardensweet.com
Green Dog Farm CSA
3421 West CR 54G, Laporte (next to Overland Foods) www.greendogfarmcsa.com
Something about being on a farm just feels good. The pace feels relaxed and your interactions, maybe, more genuine. So swing by a farm stand soon and pick up some deliciousness while you’re at it.
Hazel Dell Mushrooms
3925 E. CR 32 (Carpenter Rd.), Fort Collins www.hazeldellmushrooms.com
Hoffman Farms, LLC
3545 W. O St., Greeley www.hoffmanproduce.com
Hope Farms
1601 N. Shields St., Fort Collins www.facebook.com/CULTIVATINGHOPECO
Jodar Farms/Fort Collins Vine Farm
Order online/pick up in Fort Collins www.jodarfarms.com
Long Shadow Farm
Order online/pick up Berthoud www.longshadowfarm.wixsite.com/longshadow
Native Hill Farm
2100 CR 54G, Fort Collins www.nativehillfarm.com
Ollin Farms
8627 N. 95th St., Longmont www.ollinfarms.com
On the Vine at Richmond Farms
3611 Richmond Dr., Fort Collins www.onthevineatrichmondfarms.com
OwlTree Farm
4605 E. CR 58, Fort Collins www.owltreefarmco.com
Papa Joe’s Honey
4855 W. Eisenhower Blvd., Loveland www.facebook.com/PapaJoesLocalHoney
Pope Farms and Produce 6501 West 28th St., Greeley www.popefarmsproduce.com
Scofield Fruits
1821 W Eisenhower Blvd., Loveland www.scofieldfruits.com
Sunny Daze Gardens
901 S. CR 5, Fort Collins www.sunnydazegardens.com
Vibrant Life Farms 3315 Glade Rd., Loveland Order online, delivery to Loveland/Fort Collins www.vibrantlifefarms.com
Well Fed Farmstead 2229 W. Vine Dr., Fort Collins www.wellfedfarmstead.com
’TIS THE SEASON for gardening, and if you’ve found the task too daunting to try in the past, this year’s the time to get started! Read on to find out why you can have your own garden, regardless of any space, time or physical constraints that may be holding you back.
WHY TRY IT?
Let’s start with the obvious reason: You want to! Container gardens brighten up the landscape, attract birds and desirable insects, and can save you money on your grocery bill!
The perfect solution in small spaces, all it takes is a pot or two outside your front door to get started. Small gardening pots are portable, making them convenient to bring inside and protect in poor weather, or to move to a new locale as desired.
Not only that, but compared to larger, in-ground gardens, containers tend to attract fewer weeds and use less water overall. Best of all, they are easy on the back. Consider setting small containers on a table or bench as you plant or opt for larger pots that sit high off the ground already.
WHAT TO GROW
Container varieties of many plants can be found at your local gardening store. Other options include dwarf varieties which stay small and require less space.
When choosing plants, the sky is the limit. Flowers, herbs, fruits and vegetables can all be grown in pots, and many can be mixed together to create a more attractive and efficient raised garden.
While a large variety of plants can be grown in Colorado, some make better choices than others for beginners. Zinnias and petunias are favorite flower varieties to start with, while peas, beans, and radishes are some of the easiest vegetables to grow. From the fruit family, strawberries, peppers, tomatoes and squash tend to be fairly foolproof, and basil and chives make great starter herbs.
USEFUL TIPS
It’s important to give your plants a strong start by selecting the right containers. While nearly any type of pot, basket, barrel or tub can be used for planting, whatever you choose should have proper drainage. You can easily create your own drainage if needed by drilling or poking holes in the bottom of a container.
Next, it’s time to choose a location for your garden. Check the planting instructions on your seed packets or plant containers and follow sunlight recommendations, which may call for shade, partial sun or full sun.
When you’re ready to plant, be sure to purchase potting soil, which is formulated for container planting, rather
than garden soil. Keep in mind that plants in containers need to be watered more frequently than plants in the ground, and soil should be kept damp to a knuckle deep at all times.
Follow directions on the seed packet or container when planting to ensure proper spacing and pot depth and add stakes or trellises to containers when called for.
Finally, keep track of what you plant and record your successes along with any lessons learned in a journal to refer back to next year. Reap your rewards, learn from your mistakes, and you’ll be a gardening pro in no time! Happy planting!
School District News: Poudre
Bauder students take the lead in Encore Enrichment classes
On Monday mornings at Poudre School District’s Bauder Elementary School, fourth- and fifth-grade students don’t just go to class; they choose it.
Through Encore Enrichment, students explore subjects like music, art, physical education and technology with more voice and choice involved than a traditional specials schedule. From pottery and team sports to filming episodes of “The Bauder Show,” students can dig deeper into what they are passionate about.
These classes are called Encore, like an encore performance that leaves the audience wanting more. Fourth and fifth graders select the Encore Enrichment classes they want each quarter. If a class fills up, there is always another chance to try it the following quarter.
“It gives them the power to use their voice and analyze what they want and reflect with themselves,” says PE teacher Annie Falardeau. “When they get to middle school, they get to
choose more of what they want to do. Then, in high school they know they have the power of options and that goes through life. If you want to do something, just choose it and go for it.”
The program encourages students to explore what interests them and take ownership of their learning. Giving children the chance to make choices early on helps them discover their strengths and start shaping the path that is right for them.
In the technology class, students produce a show, which is later shared with their families and on the school website, giving students a sense of pride in their work.
“Something really nice is it inspired the younger kids,” says Emily Edler, whose older sisters also once participated in Bauder Student Television. “It definitely impacted me because I always looked up to my two older sisters. I always wanted to be like them and seeing them on TV is
cool because the whole world can see that, and it’s kind of special.”
Students are grouped by grade level rather than homeroom, allowing them to meet new people and work collaboratively across classes in ways they might not have otherwise. At its core, Encore is about giving students the opportunity to choose and play an active role in their learning.
Whether Encore Enrichment classes are scoring goals or performing music, students like Walker Fairweather say they are having fun and discovering more about themselves in the process. Fairweather, who participated in PE this quarter, says he enjoyed getting active, but what stuck with him most was how it helped him learn more about himself by trying something new with different classmates.
“It is fun because you get to find a unique personality and figure out what you want to do and become yourself,” says Fairweather.
School District News: Thompson
Zac Dwight makes a difference in kids’ lives through food
Growing up in California in what he calls a “foodie family,” Zac Dwight learned early about the bond created between people sharing a meal.
“All of our family time revolved around family cooking,” Zac says. “It was always part of our gatherings.”
Zac moved to Colorado in 2001 and began attending culinary school in Boulder.
In the meantime he worked at The Vault and recalls how the support of his boss there allowed him to have a career as a chef. “People should be more kind. If you can go out of your way for somebody, it might make a huge difference in their life.”
Zac has spent more than 15 years cooking in restaurants, working as an executive chef and helping to open brand new restaurants in northern Colorado, among other chef positions.
He also got married and had a son, and recognized something very significant about what it took to be a successful chef.
“I realized I picked the worst career ever for wanting to be with my family,” he says. “I was trying to learn different things and also cater to a better worklife balance. That’s not a thing when you’re working in restaurants.”
Zac was working exhaustingly long days and feeling like he was missing out on some important things, and he realized that the more relaxed schedule of working for a school district might be exactly what he needed.
“I love being around kids and being a positive role model,” Zac says. “There are a lot of kids who need that and don’t have that at home.”
So Zac accepted a position
with Thompson School District. He learned the ropes working in the kitchen at Lucile Erwin Middle School where he now serves as the Site and Production Lead. While the schedule is more forgiving, working in a school kitchen comes with its own set of challenges.
“It takes a certain person to work with the kids and build rapport with them,” Zac says. “The kids, you can make little breakthroughs with them.”
In the meantime, he is doing something he loves while making a difference in students’ lives.
“We are teaching these kids a lot of skills,” he says. “People tend to downgrade the importance of what we do, but there are a lot of kids that need food and need people in their lives.”
Lisa Wentz-Kinnison, Zeke Kinnison, and Amy Kilber, LICENSED INDEPENDENT AGENTS
School
District 6 announces Boettcher, Daniels scholarships
A Greeley Central High School student has received the prestigious Boettcher Scholarship, and two other District 6 students have been named Daniels Fund Scholars.
Natalie Chairez Salazar was named a Boettcher Scholar last week. She is the second person in her family to receive this full-ride scholarship: Her brother, Yahir Chairez Salazar, received a Boettcher scholarship in 2022 and is attending the Colorado School of Mines in Golden.
Boettcher Scholars receive an annual fixed amount of $20,000 per year for four years to use at a Colorado institution of higher education. Boettcher scholars can also qualify for additional tuition reimbursements from the college or university they attend, as well as educational enrichment grants and
international education grants. Since 1952, the Boettcher Foundation has awarded more than $115 million in scholarships.
Natalie has competed in volleyball, wrestling and track at Greeley Central, and has also served as president of the National Honor Society, all while maintaining a part-time job. She plans to attend the University of Colorado in Boulder to major in biological sciences and minor in business. She hopes to become a vascular surgeon someday.
“It was so heartwarming that I was chosen for the Boettcher,” Natalie says. “It relieved so much stress from me, not having to worry about how I was going to pay for college. There was finally a light at the end of the tunnel.”
Anastasia Rodriguez, a senior at Greeley West High School, and Levi Carlson, a senior at University High
School, have been named Daniels Scholars for 2025 Daniels Scholars receive up to $100,000 over four years towards their undergraduate degree, depending on financial need. Daniels Scholars may use their scholarship at any accredited nonprofit college or university anywhere in the United States. Students are selected for their strength of character, leadership potential, commitment to serving the community, and academic potential.
Anastasia has been very involved in the Future Farmers of America organization at Greeley West, especially animal sciences. She plans to attend Colorado State University next year to study Animal and Equine Science with the hopes of becoming a large animal veterinarian.
“Getting this scholarship means a lot,” Anastasia says. “It means I can realize my dreams and my greatest hopes without having to worry about how I am going to pay for college. It is a huge relief.”
Levi is also very active in extracurricular activities at University High, including Marching Band, Pep Band, Jazz Band, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Student Council and National Honor Society. Levi says he was excited to learn he will receive the Daniels Fund Scholarship. He plans to attend Colorado State University to study Computer Science.
“It opens the door for me to feel like I can pursue things that make a difference,” Levi says.
More than 2,000 students applied for Daniels Scholarships this year. The foundation awarded 209 scholarships in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming this year.
Last year, one District 6 student received Daniels scholarships. Over the past 19 years, 118 District 6 scholars have received this competitive award.
Greeley City Council honors award recipient
HEATSTROKE SAFETY TIPS
Now that the weather is warmer, kids are at more risk of getting heat stroke. Take these steps to ensure that your children are safe.
Reduce the number of deaths from heatstroke by remembering to ACT.
A: Never leave your child unattended in a car, not even for a moment. Make sure to keep your car locked when you’re not in it so kids can’t get in on their own.
C: Create reminders by putting something in the back of your car next to your child, such as a briefcase, a purse or cell phone that is needed at your final destination.
T: Take action. If you see a child alone in a car, call 911. Emergency personnel want you to call. They are trained to respond to these situations. One call could save a life.
For more information on safety and kids, go to Safe Kids Northern Colorado at www.safekidsnoco. org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/ heatstroke_safety_tips1.pdf.
Vanetta Williams Haley receives the 2025 National Youth Service Day Award. The 17-year-old Dream Team Platte Valley member received a $1,000 scholarship check from Mayor John Gates at the April 15 City Council meeting.
Emily Crooks nominated Haley. She praised her for her work with the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) and the National Honor Society (NHS). Crooks says, “The last two years, she has spearheaded a drive to collect necessities for youth in the foster care system in Weld County.” Through NHS, she has volunteered in elementary and middle schools in her district and in both Kersey and Greeley. She has volunteered to teach youth cheerleading for several
years and “is the first to step up in Dream Team and the school where there is a need.”
Vanetta is compassionate about the world around her and has goals to improve the world. She plans to pursue a degree in Nursing at Colorado Mesa University. Hoping that she can contribute to the lives of others in the face of healthcare needs and otherwise.”
The National Youth Services Day Awards recognize young people who make a big difference in their community. The Greeley Youth Commission is a student-run board encouraging youth to become leaders. The commission accepts nominations yearly for individuals who have performed outstanding community service.
SPRING TEEN SELF-CARE FAIR
May 4th, 11am-4pm
Chilson Senior Center 700 E. 4th St. LV www.allianceforsuicideprevention. org/events/teen-self-care-fair/ The goal is to create a space for youth to learn new coping skills and join the conversation around suicide prevention through experiential learning. Whether you’re into medieval longsword, art, aerial silks, yoga meditation, working out or creating your own superhero, you’re welcome here. Enjoy the therapy dogs, community resource booths, free food truck and giveaways.
This event is open to all youth (6th12th grades) who want to explore new ways to practice self-care.
City of Greeley Mayor John Gates presents scholarship check to Vanetta Williams Haley, high school student, at the April 15 City Council meeting.
Community Calendar
May events
FESTIVALS & COMMUNITY EVENTS
MAY 2 THROUGH 4
Friends of the Loveland Public Library
Spring Book Sale
Thousands of used books, CDs, DVDs, puzzles and other materials for sale, prices ranging from 50 cents to $2.50. Members only on May 2. The Ranch, LV. www.treventscomplex.com
MAY 3 AND 4
Mollie McGee’s Fine Craft Market
Features only the highest quality handcrafted items as well as unique items not found in most malls. The Ranch, LV. www.treventscomplex.com
SUNDAY, MAY 4
Teen Self Care Fair
All youth in grades 6–12 can explore ways to practice self-care. Try medieval longsword, art, aerial silks, yoga, meditation, working out or visit therapy dogs, community resource booths, free food trucks plus giveaways! Chilson Recreation Center, LV. http://facebook. com/share/15ZEXNaFUV
TUESDAYS, MAY 13 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 16
FoCo Food Truck Rally
Food trucks and free live music. City Park, FC. www.focofoodtruckrally.com
SATURDAY, MAY 17
Loveland Kids to Parks Day
Playing the Day Away in Lemonadeville. National day of play to connects kids and families with their local, state
and national parks. North Lake Park, LV. www.lovgov.org/services/parksrecreation/events/kids-to-parks-day
SUNDAY, MAY 18
Windsor Kids to Park Day
Get outdoors and explore nature by visiting local parks, playgrounds, and open spaces. Eastman Park, WS. www. recreationliveshere.com/calendar
SATURDAY, MAY 31
Blues & Cruise Car Show
Full day of live blues music and classic cars. Downtown LV. www. downtownloveland.org/blues-cruise
ENTERTAINMENT
THROUGH MAY 24
Exhibit: It’s About TIME Exhibit explores how time affects everything from daily life to the study of disciplines like science and philosophy. Mothers get free admission May 10. Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, FC. www.globalvillagemuseum.org
THROUGH JUNE 8
Bright Star
Sweeping tale of love and redemption in the American South in the 1920s and ‘40s. Candlelight Dinner Theatre, Johnstown. coloradocandlelight.com
MAY 2 THROUGH 4
Loveland Choral Society: High Rollers
High energy show features group
numbers, soloists, eye-catching visuals and multiple dance numbers relating to the Las Vegas strip. Rialto Theater Center, LV. www.rialtotheatercenter.org/ rialto-presents
MAY 8 AND 9
Greeley Option Schools Presents Alice in Wonderland Jr
When young Alice finds herself in a strange world, she must find her way home…and find herself along the way.. Hensel Phelps Theater, GR. www.ucstars.showare.com
THURSDAYS, MAY 8, JUNE 19, JULY 17, AUGUST 21
Movie Nights
Bring food/chairs/blankets for movies in the indoor arena. Proceeds support their ridership fund to assist adaptive riding participants. Temple Grandin Equine Center, FC. www.TempleGrandinEquineCenter.com
SATURDAY, MAY 10
Artrageous
Music, dance and live painting meets interactivity and creativity for families. Rialto Theater, LV. www. rialtotheatercenter.org/rialto-presents
Dwight Yoakam with The Mavericks & 49 Winchester
The Cosmic Roundup & Rodeo Tour features iconic blend of honky-tonk, rock, and country. Blue Arena, LV. www.treventscomplex.com
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14
A Taste of Ireland
The Irish Music & Dance Sensation. Rialto Theater, LV. www.rialtotheater center.org/rialto-presents
FRIDAY, MAY 16
Gary Allan Live with Mark Mackay
Unique blend of traditional and modern country in intimate, high-energy show. Blue Arena, LV. www.treventscomplex.com
SATURDAY, MAY 17
Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra Presents A Human Experience
Experience the vast spectrum of emotions from Mozart, Anna Clyne, and Rachmaninoff. Monfort Concert Hall, GR. www.ucstars.showare.com
Skygazing
Brief, family-friendly astronomy activity followed by skygazing with telescopes from Northern Colorado Astronomical Society. Fossil Creek Natural Area, FC. www.fcgov.com/events
SUNDAY, MAY 18
A Taste of Ireland
The Irish Music & Dance Sensation. Monfort Concert Hall, GR. www.ucstars.showare.com
WEDNESDAY, MAY 21
Free Days at Loveland Museum
Free admission during business hours. Loveland Museum, LV. www.thelovelandmuseum.org
MAY 22 AND 23
Greeley Option Schools Presents Into the Woods Jr
American musical fantasy. Hensel Phelps Theater, GR. www.ucstars.showare.com
FRIDAY, MAY 23
Wild “Dogs” of Larimer County
Learn about the five wild members of the dog (canid) family in Colorado, and why they are important. Gateway Natural Area, FC. www.fcgov.com/events
THURSDAY, MAY 29
Explore with Reptile and Amphibian Center of the Rockies
Learn about the critters that these ponds home. Riverbend PondsNatural Area, FC. www.fcgov.com/events
FRIDAY, MAY 30
Campfire at Coyote Ridge Cabin
Two-mile round-trip easy hike with one large hill each way to enjoy campfire and stories. Coyote Ridge Natural Area, FC. www.fcgov.com/events
SATURDAY, MAY 31
A Dance Place Presents Peter Pan Jr. Take a journey to Neverland for an unforgettable adventure! Monfort Concert Hall, GR. www.ucstars.showare.com
ACTIVE-ITIES
MAY THROUGH AUGUST
FREE Healthy Kids Run Series
Four free family-friendly in-person onemile fun runs and five one-mile on-yourown-courses at local parks. LV, GR and Severance. www.healthykidsclub.org
SUNDAY, MAY 4
Colorado Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and 5K
Choose among four scenic downhill courses with finish line expo, post-race party and beer garden with live music. Poudre Canyon, FC. www.comarathon.com
SATURDAY, MAY 24
Weld Your Mettle Running Festival
Multiple events over several days including a 7k walk/run and 1-mile Kids Fun Run. Eaton. www.runsignup.com/Race/CO/Eaton/ WeldYourMettleUltraMarathon
Time out
KATIE HARRIS
Embracing the journey—Find the art of living in the moment
THERE’S A FAMOUS SAYING, “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.” While I’m fairly certain this quote—often attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson— wasn’t referring to parenting, I’m convinced there aren’t many situations it applies to better.
I’m pretty sure most moms can relate when I say that my life is all about the hustle. From packing lunches to answering emails, scheduling doctor’s appointments to paying the electric bill, scrubbing dishes to showing up on time (and looking put together) for a parent-teacher conference—there’s rarely a moment when I’m not multitasking, just trying to get through the grind as efficiently as possible.
And the same, unfortunately, often goes for time with my kids. Whether it’s setting a 20-minute timer to give them my undivided attention during playtime—counting down the minutes while resisting the urge to glance at the work email pinging through on my phone—or nodding through stories from their school day while my mind is already prepping a dinner plan, our time together is rarely unrushed. It’s not something I’m proud of, but it’s the reality of motherhood in the 21st century.
Not long ago, I was volunteering in my son’s preschool classroom, manning a table where the kids were smashing paint blotters onto a rainbow of dots. Things were going smoothly until one little boy took the blotter I offered, and ever so slowly and carefully, pressed it onto the first dot. He paused to examine his work, then went back to that same dot again. By the time the teacher called for the groups to switch stations, he had completed exactly six of the 25 dots. While the other kids got up from their chairs, he stayed put, fully focused on finishing his masterpiece. Only after he
had covered every last inch of white space did he finally stand, carry his paper to the drying rack, and move on.
For a moment, I worried that the teacher might be disappointed he hadn’t made it to the other stations like everyone else. Maybe I should’ve nudged him along. But later, when his dad arrived and the boy handed over his finished creation, beaming with pride, I realized it didn’t matter that he hadn’t completed every activity. What mattered was how hard he had worked on that one page, and how proud he was of it.
That moment got me thinking about all the times I’ve rushed my own kids through something to get it “done right” or to move on to the next thing.
Sure, there were craft projects I’d taken over, but the examples didn’t end there.
One day, a few months back, I decided to take all four kids hiking. The forecast had called for afternoon showers, but I had mapped out a route and figured we could easily make it back by noon if we got an early start.
That plan unraveled almost immediately. The kids, groggy and dragging, took far longer than I had allotted to get moving. We arrived at the trailhead a full 30 minutes late. We had barely started when my youngest plopped down in the dirt to dig with a stick. A battle ensued—me insisting he walk, him insisting I carry him. Eventually, he moved, half-walking, half being dragged.
Then came the snack demands. I begged them to wait until we reached the lake, our planned destination and the perfect picnic spot. But they were hungry. We stopped. Then we stopped again—to check out an anthill, climb a tree, scramble over boulders. By the time we were halfway there, the rain rolled in and we had to turn back.
Soggy, tired, and disappointed, we
drove home in silence. We hadn’t even seen the lake. The whole day felt like a waste.
But that day at the preschool, seeing that little boy’s pride in creating something that had nothing to do with the assignment and everything to do with what mattered to him in that moment, I thought back to that hike—and what I could’ve done differently.
I wished I’d stopped to inspect that anthill with my son, marveling at the ants carrying leaves twice their size.
I wished I’d climbed that boulder with the kids and declared it a perfect impromptu picnic spot.
And above all I wished that, when the rain started to fall, I’d grabbed their hands and danced in the puddles.
I’ll never perfect the art of living in the moment. In this busy world of deadlines, expectations, and too many hats to wear, the rush is real. But I hope that sometimes, when it really counts, I’ll remember to slow down, let go of the “destination,” and enjoy the journey—one imperfect, messy, magical moment at a time.
