Lane County MOM | Feb/Mar 2020

real local moms

Lane County | April / May 2020

since 2005

COVER MOMS

DESIGNING A

BANANA RECIPES

JEN KERN & LIZ BAINTER

NURSERY

GO BANANAS

LARGE PRIZE WALL FOR A JOB WELL DONE! • 15 years experience in

the dental field

• birth to 16 years old • accepting all insurances • offering sedation dentistry • awesome monthly

prize drawings

• all new state-of-the-art

dental equipment

• lobby treehouse

with slide

• coffee bar •

fun, fun, fun

Dr. Erin Estep

Treehouse Kids Dentist provides the highest quality pediatric dentistry in an incredibly warm, friendly, and fun environment. We are committed to giving you and your child the very best care in a welcoming and playful manner.

1611 J Street Springfield, OR • 541-515-6631 • office@treehousekidsdental.com 2 mommag.com

mommag.com 2

It’s what‘s

inside that counts GO Ba

-na -nas!

Nursery Design 18 Meet the MOM experts... 4

Buckle Up

24

They know what they’re

Designing a nursery............................18

talking about

Create a nurturing space

Because I said so............... 5 A message from MOM

Vacation MOM................... 6 Get ready for Real ID

Go Bananas

27

Go bananas.......................27 Tasty treats using bananas

that leaves your wallet and sanity intact.

Buckle up...........................24 Stay current on car seat guidelines

Cover MOMs: Liz Bainter & Jen Kern.............................10 These moms gets real

More ways to love your MOM Blog: mommag.com

Facebook: facebook.com/ lovemommag Email: info@mommag.com We love hearing from you. Email us with feedback, story ideas or nominations.

Cover MOM

CONGRATULATIONS to St. Vincent de Paul Society of Lane County, winner of the 2020 MOM Magazine Community Impact Award.

For more information about St. Vincent de Paul Society of Lane County check out their ad on page 17.

10

Photos by Fremouw Photography

Advertise today Want to get the word out about your business?

Contact Linda Blair at linda@mommag.com mommag.com 3

meet the

experts

[They know what they’re talking about]

Vacation MOM

™

with Donnita Bassinger, page 6

Focus on MOM

™

with Dr. David Hackett, Pediatric Optometrist, page 8

Beyond the bin

™

“Spring’s greatest joy beyond a doubt is when it brings the children out.

“

– Edgar Guest.

4 mommag.com

with Sarah Grimm, page 22

EDITOR'S NOTE

Because I said so!

Published by GO Creative, LLC 263 29th Avenue SW Albany, OR 97322

‘til we meet again

Editor-in-Chief Managing Director Angela Hibbard angela@mommag.com

S

aying goodbye is never easy, which is why this Because I said so! has been so difficult to write—it is my last. After seven years as Editor-in-Chief of MOM Magazine, it’s time for me to leave the nest and move on to a new opportunity.

Mid-Valley & Lane County Business Development Manager Linda Blair linda@mommag.com 541-231-7250 Salem Advertising Representative Kim Leighty kim.leighty@mommag.com 503-510-9036 Tri-Cities Business Development Manager Kim Harvey kim@mommag.com 509-460-6526 Designer Sean Carver

MOM Magazine is sustainably delivered throughout the community thanks to pedalersexpress.com MOM MagazineTM is produced by GO Creative, LLC. © 2020 All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or part, without written permission of the publisher, is prohibited.

Information in the magazine is provided for general information purposes only with the understanding that none of the content constitutes professional advice.

Opinions expressed by the writers or advertisers are not necessarily the opinions of the magazine or the publisher. Inclusion in the magazine does not constitute endorsement of information, products or services.

“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard. ” A.A. Milne (Winnie-the-Pooh)

It has truly been a privilege to tell the stories of so many amazing local moms. I’ve learned from each one of our Cover MOMs and all of our readers and partners. You’d think I’d have this motherhood thing figured out by now since I’ve had the benefit of so much MOM wisdom, but I don’t. I’m failing and learning and growing every day. When I stumble, I need to remind myself of some of the advice shared in this column over the years. So I leave you with a collection of my favorites from Because I said so!

The laundry can wait.

Your presence is present enough.

Don’t compare.

You are the perfect mother for your child.

Breathe.

Perfect parenting is poor preparation for the real world.

Love is spelled T.I.M.E. Put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others.

Remember these words of wisdom the next time you need a little mom inspiration.

Why? Because I said so!

Angela Hibbard MOM Magazine Editor-in-Chief

mommag.com 5

Important newrules take effect on October 1, 2020.

EVERY ADULT (18+) FLYING WITHIN THE USA MUST PRESENT A REAL ID CARD, a passport, Global Entry card or other federally approved ID. A regular driver’s license will not be acceptable.

Real ID The state of Oregon will begin issuing Real ID driver’s licenses and ID cards on July 6th. It is anticipated that there will be a huge rush and delays to obtain this important ID before the 6 mommag.com

October 1st implementation of the new rules. The proposed cost is $30 plus the regular license renewal fee of $40. In addition to the fees, you must present many official documents (see page 7, Real ID documents requirements).

The cost of a Real ID will be $70 and the cost for a passport is $145 for adults (valid for 10 years). So, the best thing for travelers to do is obtain or renew their passports. Get a passport book as they are good for domestic and international travel.

Passports Everyone is required to have a valid passport book (not card) for travel outside of the United States and Territories (U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands). The current cost is $145 for ages 16 and over (valid for 10 years) and $115 for under age 16 (valid for five years). Both parents are required to be present when applying for a passport for a minor. Details can be found on the government website (www.usa.gov/passport).

AT A GLANCE

TSA PreCheck™ The Eugene Airport’s renovation in 2018 included many changes to make the flying experience better for everyone. One big improvement was the dedicated TSA PreCheck™ screening line. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) PreCheck™ program lets pre-approved citizens breeze through airport checkpoints at more than 160 airports in the USA for domestic and international travel. The cost is $85 per person for a 5-year membership ($17 per year).

Children age 12 and under can join their parents in the PreCheck™ line for no cost.

There is now an IdentoGo enrollment office in downtown Eugene to make it easy to participate in the PreCheck™ program.

Important! TSA PreCheck™ does not meet Real ID requirements.

Global Entry If you plan to travel outside of the USA over the next five years, it could be worthwhile to apply for the Global Entry program instead of TSA PreCheck™. The cost is $100 for five years of Global Entry and it includes TSA PreCheck™.

Global Entry membership (and fees) are required for all ages, so families need to consider how often they will be flying out of the USA when deciding between the two

Passport

Real ID

$145 over 15. $115 under 16.

For travel in the USA & abroad.

$70 and valid for up to 8 years.

For Travel in the USA after October 1, 2020.

Global Entry

TSAPreCheckTM

$100 for a five-year membership.

Passport required.

For travel in the USA & abroad. Includes TSA PreCheck.

$85 for a five-year membership.

For travel in the USA. Does not meet Real ID requirements.

Oregon

REAL ID

Signature

Documentation requirements: Proof of identity and lawful status

programs. To apply for Global Entry you must have a valid passport, create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account, complete an application and pay the $100 fee. You must attend an interview at the office at Portland Airport (PDX). The entire process could take a few months, so begin early.

As a parent, you know that being prepared can help minimize hassles and make things run more smoothly. When traveling, this is especially important. Taking the time to get passports along with TSA PreCheck™ or Global Entry for your family now can make flying so much easier for future years.

Proof of Social Security number Two proofs of current physical address Proof of legal name changes

Websites for the latest information: Rules change often so please check the following sites: Real ID: tsa.gov/real-id Trusted Traveler Programs: https://ttp.cbp.dhs.gov Passport Information: www.usa.gov/passport

Brought to you by:

MEET VACATION MOM

TM

Vacation MOM, Donnita Bassinger has been a travel agent for three decades and enjoys sending families on vacations around the world. She lives in Eugene with her husband and three boys.

Contact Donnita for more information 541-913-5272. @VacationMOM

mommag.com 7

Brought to you by: David Hackett, O.D. 4765 Village Plaza Loop, Eugene, Oregon (541) 342-3100 lifetimeeyecare.net

Courtesy of COVD.org

8 mommag.com

[ Momism #64: Wash

your hands.

]

Home and Office Services Offered: Organizing Decluttering Downsizing

“FOR EVERY MINUTE SPENT ORGANIZING, AN HOUR IS EARNED” -BENJAMIN FRANKLIN

Space & Storage Design Prepacking & Staging Move-ins/Move-outs Office Operations & Efficiency And so much more…

A place for everything and everything in its place!

Professional Organizing Services by Megan Warren megan-warren@hotmail.com (541) 891-7100 www.shipshapeyourspace.com

Visit us to find out more. eugenenannyservices.com 541-357-3263 eugenenannyservices@gmail.com

Do you struggle to find a babysitter? Do you miss work because your kids are sick? When was the last time you had a date night? Eugene Nanny Services can help with all of your childcare needs.

mommag.com 9

JEN KERN

&

LIZ BAINTER 10 mommag.com

For Cover MOMs, Liz Bainter and Jen Kern, parenting is a hole-in-one. This family foursome reminds us of the power of teamwork and trusting yourself.

Photo credit: Fremouw Photography

The Family Cover MOMs Liz Bainter, Vice President Clinical Quality and Population Health at PacificSource and Jen Kern, stay-at-home parent and LPGA teaching professional, live in Eugene with their children: Ryley, age 10 and Ashlyn, age 7.

&

mommag.com 11

LIZ BAINTER

Cover MOM Liz Bainter’s Favorite…

Family game: We play a lot of games, our recent favorites are Exploding Kittens and Monopoly. We have been known to play some competitive Mario Kart, Old Maid and kickball.

Words to live by: Be Kind.

Place to hide and find some peace and quiet: Bathtub.

Inspirational quote: “Winners never quit and quitters never win.” ~ Vince Lombardi

Parenting book or philosophy: Working as a team. We all play an important role in the family and working together is key.

Quick

questions for MOM

Morning or Night?

Morning

Math or English?

Math

Summer or Winter? Hot or Cold?

Cold Summer Sweet or Savory?

Fly or Drive?

Savory Fly Hugs or Kisses?

Gold or Silver?

Kisses

Silver Dog or Cat?

Ice Cream or Chocolate?

Dog

Ice Cream

Beer or Wine?

Wine

Early or Late?

Early

Bath or Shower?

Bath 12 mommag.com

Every family has their own traditions, rituals or inside jokes. What’s one of yours?

We have a lot of traditions, but one of our newest is Dynamite Dinner Night where two of us are in charge of the menu (appetizer, main course, dessert) and two of us are in charge of entertainment (movie, games). We both keep it a secret and really enjoy the preparation, teamwork and anticipation of the meal and entertainment.

Tell us about one of your proudest mom moments? I think my proudest mom moments are when both kids give their teammates high fives and cheer on others.

What is the most surprising thing you have found wedged between the sofa cushions or behind a car seat? Glitter, Glitter, Glitter.

It is in and on everything we own.

What is something you swore you would never do before kids that you now do?

Guilty. I have totally done a 6 AM drivethru coffee run on the weekend in my pj’s and slippers.

You know you’re a mom when you hear yourself say… “If you two cannot find a compromise, I will turn the car around and we will go home right now.”

Your biggest wish for your kids is… I wish that they always be true to themselves and enjoy the journey.

No one works harder than mom.

What have you learned professionally, that has helped you as a mom? The power of Microsfot Excel. I could organize everything from chores to vacations to Thanksgiving dinner on a spreadsheet.

How do you balance (or not) motherhood, activities, work, volunteering, household responsibilities, and life in general?

Typically, what falls through the cracks?

Balance is a journey for sure and my most challenging skill. I often prioritize my own self-care (exercise, sleep, mental health) last so this is one of my 2020 goals.

for our family. I find long-term planning very helpful for allowing space to dream and helping us stay focused. I have a personal goal to complete a triathlon.

If mom’s not happy, nobody’s happy.

Tell us about your community/upbringing.

How did it shape the mother you are today?

Both of my parents were teachers, so everything was a “teaching moment.” My kids tell me I have Mike Brady moments when I try to make unloading the dishwasher a life lesson.

What do you think is the most important life skill or value your parents taught you?

My parents always did a good job of supporting my brother and me unconditionally and helping us sort through big decisions and challenges in our lives.

any preconceived ideas about motherhood, but I have been humbled by how much I want to be the best version of myself. Oh, and that I love Ry and Ash so much. I tell them I would eat them in a jelly sandwich if I could.

What advice would you give your younger mom self—what do you wish you knew then that you know now? Trust yourself. Everyone will give you loads of great advice and opinions, but trust your instincts. You know your child and family better than anyone else, be confident.

What message would you like to share with other moms? Time flies. Be present and slow down. Focus on the things that matter. Your kids will never remember how the carrots were cut for Thanksgiving or if the tablecloth was ironed perfectly. They will remember the love and laughter.

When was the last time you did something for the first time? February. We took a horse drawn sleigh ride at Odell Lake.

What is something you will NEVER do again? Eat oysters.

What is one thing you never had that you want for your kids. Travel out of the country. I didn’t travel out of the country till I was 40 years old, so I hope to create that opportunity for Ry and Ash. What’s your superpower? Humor.

If you could turn any activity into an Olympic sport, in which event would you win a gold medal? Cleaning the kitchen.

Tell us something about you that would surprise your kids (or your spouse). I often daydream about dying my hair pink and getting my nose pierced.

What keeps you sane?

Outdoor adventures with my family.

What is your greatest extravagance?

My Peloton bike.

When was the last time you failed? What did you learn? I fail at things all the time. I strive to focus on continuous improvement and not let perfect get in the way of better.

I have also learned that sharing some of my failures with my kids helps demonstrate healthy habits for responding to failure.

Who is your favorite fictional hero?

Elastic Girl.

Do you have a goal you’d like to accomplish within the next five years? Yes, we have five-year goals for everything from finances to experiences we want to create

Listen to mom.

Who is your favorite real life hero?

Ellen DeGeneres and Greta Thunberg.

They say that everyone has a book in them.

What’s the title of your book? How to sink your fourth putt.

Is motherhood what you expected? What surprised you the most? I didn’t really have mommag.com 13

Cover MOM Jen Kern’s Favorite…

Family game: We love games like Exploding Kittens and Monopoly.

Words to live by: Choose kindness.

Place to hide and find some peace and quiet: The golf course.

Inspirational quote: “Don’t sweat the small stuff.”

Parenting book or

JEN KERN

philosophy:

14 mommag.com

One thing I learned early on is that every child is unique. There could be a book written about each and every kid. Figure out what works best for yours.

Quick

questions for MOM

Tea or Coffee?

Coffee

Math or English?

Math

Morning or Night?

Morning

Hot or Cold?

Cold

Summer or Winter? Sweet or Savory?

Winter Sweet Fly or Drive?

Drive

Hugs or Kisses?

Hugs

Gold or Silver?

Silver

Ice Cream or Chocolate?

Chocolate

Beer or Wine?

Wine Bath or Shower?

Bath

Early or Late?

Early

Family comes first.

Tell us about one of your proudest mom moments? When our kids learned to hit a golf ball.

Now tell us about one of your most humbling mom moments? Being a grown adult and not being able to get our toddler into his carseat. He would down right refuse to get in and would make his body go stiff as a board.

You know you’re a mom when you hear yourself say… Please make good choices.

Your biggest wish for your kids is… To grow up and do something they love and live a life without being overly critical of themselves.

No one works harder than mom.

We know that being a mom is a full-time job. Tell us about your work or volunteerism outside of the home.

I volunteer at the school as much as I can. I also give golf lessons a few days a week.

Recently, I accepted the women’s head golf coach position at Sheldon High School.

What have you learned professionally, that has helped you as a mom? Learn to control what you can control because you will encounter plenty of moments that are out of your control.

How do you balance (or not) motherhood, activities, work, volunteering, household responsibilities, and life in general?

Typically, what falls through the cracks?

I do my best. The house is never perfectly clean. The laundry is never caught up. I’ve slowly learned to just accept that things will not be perfect.

When was the last time you failed? What did you learn? I tend to be hard on myself

and often feel like I’m failing in several areas whether it be parenting or working on myself. What I have learned is to let go and not worry so much.

If mom’s not happy, nobody’s happy.

Tell us about your upbringing. How did it shape the mother you are today? I grew up spending a majority of my time outside.

Bike rides, picnicking in the park, hiking and learning about every sport or activity I can think of. My parents did an exceptional job of exposing us to a wide variety of activities and it is something I strive to pass onto our kids.

What do you think is the most important life skill or value your parents taught you?

Hard work pays off and be confident in who you are.

Who is your favorite real life hero?

Ellen DeGeneres.

What is something you think everyone should do at least once in their lives?

Serve a holiday meal to the homeless.

They say that everyone has a book in them.

What’s the title of your book? Breathe.

Listen to mom.

Is motherhood what you expected? What surprised you the most?

I didn’t have many expectations in regards to motherhood. What surprised me the most was how much I’ve enjoyed being a mom.

Times aren’t always easy, but being a parent is so rewarding in so many ways.

What’s the best advice you’ve received from another mom? Make sure to take care of yourself.

What is something you will NEVER do again? Ride in a helicopter.

What advice would you give your younger mom self—what do you wish you knew then that you know now? When parenting, trust yourself. Nobody knows your kids better than you do and you know what is best for them. Put your phone away and be present for them.

Which good habit do you wish you started earlier? Making sure to get enough sleep.

What message would you like to share with other moms? Laugh often!

When was the last time you did something for the first time? A year ago I rode in a helicopter over Zion National Park with a good friend.

What’s your superpower? Patience Tell us something about you that would surprise your kids (or your spouse). I still dream of playing in a US Open someday.

What keeps you sane?

Being outdoors.

What is your greatest extravagance?

My espresso machine.

Who is your favorite fictional hero?

Snoopy.

mommag.com 15

Time flies. Be present and slow down. Focus on the things that matter. Your kids will never remember how the carrots were cut for Thanksgiving or if the tablecloth was ironed perfectly. They will remember the love and laughter. - Liz Bainter

16 mommag.com

[ Momism #79:

Cough into your elbow.

]

Local Children Need Your Help!

For children without stable housing, access to basic necessities can be tough.

First Place Kids offers zero-barrier preschool so parents can focus on finding stability.

Please Donate These Items • • • • • • • •

New or used clothes (newborn-6T) Hypoallergenic diapers and wipes Arts and craft supplies Simple toys made of wood, metal, or cloth Flat-bed sheets in solid colors Pacifiers Shoes and rain boots (1C-10Y) Organic fruit, eggs, cheese, and vegetables

1995 Amazon Parkway in Eugene

donate online at www.svdp.us mommag.com 17

3

Designing a nursery Designing a nursery can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. We love these tips for creating a nurturing space that will grow with your child and leave your wallet and sanity intact.

18 mommag.com

2

1: The basics

1

Nurseries only need to support the baby’s basic activities in order to thrive. So, what do babies do? New babies eat, sleep and play. Does your baby need a mommy daybed adorned with pillows, a long chaise lounge and a television? No. Buckets of love, a crib or bassinet, a chair for nursing and a comfortable surface for play are all your baby needs for a good growing start.

2: Safety Safety has to be the first priority when designing a space for your baby. For example, choose cordless window treatments, a new or properly retrofitted used crib, no/low VOC paint and forego crib bumpers at certain ages or altogether. If it is not safe, don’t let yourself love it and put it in the room.

3: That special chair A chair is used for nursing, bonding, rocking, relaxing, singing, reading and, sometimes, sleeping. So many precious moments will take place in

4

this chair, so find a good one, new or used! Traditional gliders are often resold after mom and baby outgrow them, while an upholstered chair with rocking feet can be used in another room in the house.

4: Changing station It’s entirely possible, and some argue

safer, to change diapers with just a pad on the floor. If considering a table or dresser, new or used, choose a pad that can be securely attached for safety. Dressers, rather than changing tables, allow for easy access to diapers, supplies and baby clothes and can also be used during toddlerhood and beyond.

5: Lights out Even the tiniest sliver of light can wake some babies, especially if you have a summer-born, light-sleeping baby. A dark room will add to your baby’s sleeping success rate. There are many cordless blackout shade options in various lengths that can be cut to size. Or simply buy blackout material and “hook and loop” tape it to the surrounding millwork.

5

mommag.com 19

Check out these tips for creating a room with personality without breaking the bank. They just make sense (cents)!

A non-themed room transitions more affordably, and can be accomplished gradually avoiding future expenses when interests change or your baby grows an opinion.

When buying more expensive or custom items choose colors and patterns that transition over time. For example, gender-neutral colors and age-transitional patterns: geometrics and stripes over baby-specific scenes; greens over pinks; multi-color fabrics; furniture in white or wood tone over bright painted colors.

Bring in color with smaller, budget-friendly items: storage baskets, sheets, throws, wall art and other decorative top notes. Books and toys are the most practical ways to style kid’s rooms; select your favorites and put them front and center!

Decorate with affordable art. Search “printable nursery art” online then repurpose old thrift store frames and buy a custom colored mat at your local frame shop.

Select paint last. If you want to get the color right, wait until you know the design direction of the room. You can create any color in the world after you have a reference point such as a color pulled from fabric or a rug.

Kari Delavenne is a mother of two and Interior Designer. For more of Kari’s design ideas visit www.delavennedesign.com Article adapted from A room to grow, MOM Magazine April/May 2016

20 mommag.com

[ Momism #81:

We’ll see.

]

Moms Take Care of Their Moms (and Dads Too) They’ll need more help soon.

Who can help ME help them?

What’s available? How do I find it?

Downsizing Eugene Can Help

DownsizingEugene.com

Free Consultation Contact Ron Bush — 541-514-1141

ronbush@equinoxrealestate.com

W Name one baby item new moms don’t need.

e asked moms to weigh in on the most unnecessary baby item. We heard from hundreds of you and the overwhelming answer was: Wipe warmers!

Most moms just don’t need them.

Some other honorable mentions include bottle warmers, diaper genies, changing tables and—our staff favorite—unsolicited advice from others! @lovemommag

of here!

Get out don't need st Moms ju pe warmers. you, wi mommag.com 21

Recycling is well worth the effort.

The 516 million pounds of recycled materials our community sent to manufacturers last year will be used instead of mining or harvesting raw materials. The reduced energy use and pollution resulting from that recycling is equivalent to taking 139,995 cars off the road for an entire year.*

But please don’t ruin it by recycling items that aren’t recyclable.

These items are NOT recyclable:

Follow instructions carefully and, if in doubt, find out...or leave it out! Check the Lane County Garbage Guru.

• berry basket

• coffee cup • plastic bag

Please put them in the garbage!

lanecounty.org/garbageguru *Equivalency data provided by EPA WARM Model

Brought to you by: Sarah Grimm is the Waste Reduction Specialist for Lane County Public Works. She is an avid gardener, flyfisher and lover of the great outdoors.

Wondering if something is Recyclable in Lane County?

Look it up at www.lanecounty.org/garbageguru

Summer Camp www.camptamarack.com Ages 8-13 Spend a week lakeside in Central Oregon!

Type 1 Diabetes: June 23 - 26 Session C: July 12 - 17 Session A: June 28 - July 3 Session D: July 19 - 24 Session B: July 5 - 10 Session E: July 26 - 31 22 mommag.com

Session F: August 2 - 7 Session G: August 9 - 14 Session H: August 16 - 21

[ Momism #93:

One day you’ll thank me.

]

Eugene Montessori School Educating for a better world since 1962.

A quality Montessori education for children 3 through kindergarten. The individualized curriculum includes music and P.E., snacks and a wholesome hot lunch.

Call for a tour!

Eugene Montessori School 2255 Oakmont Way 541.345.7124 eugenemontessorischool.com

HOST A STUDENT THIS SUMMER!

FROM FRANCE OR SPAIN Students are ages 13-18 They stay only a few weeks yrevocsiD naciremA ,0202©

Hosting provides a rich, cultural experience for the whole family

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 541-302-3393 You can also e-mail Ashley@AmericanDiscovery.net

www.AmericanDiscovery.net

Thinking about homeschooling? • Already on the homeschool journey?

Knowledgeable Speakers • Quality Homeschool Materials • Family-Friendly Atmosphere June 19 & 20, 2020 • Linn County Fairgrounds, Albany • Registration opens April 16

The 26th Annual Oregon Christian Home Education Conference

OregonHomeschoolConference.com

mommag.com 23

BUCKLE UP! Car seat guidelines and laws are confusing. Vehicle and car seat technology can be even more so.

Here is a quick summary of some of the most important—yet not always wellunderstood—recommendations on child passenger safety: Oregon law states that kids need to be rear-facing until age two. The American Academy of Pediatrics, however, recommends keeping children rear-facing as long as possible, so long as they fit in the weight and height requirements of the seats. Most convertible car seats—seats that can rear or forward-face—will accommodate kids rear-facing until they weigh 40 pounds.

The next big—and often confusing—step is transitioning kids from a five-point harness, forward-facing car seat into a

booster seat. This can happen after age four as long as they are over 40 pounds. I always advocate that parents keep their kids in a car seat as long as they fit, because a five-point harness is much safer than a three-point seatbelt in a belt-positioning booster seat.

The lap belt should be over the upper thighs and hips, not the abdomen.

The final step in the car seat transition is moving from a booster seat to a seat belt only. This may happen when a child is anywhere between eight and 12 years of age; they should be about 4’ 9” before this transition occurs. They should be able to pass several tests before they use the seat without the booster:

Motor vehicle collisions are the No. 1 cause of death and significant injury in kids under the age of 19. There’s a lot we can do to protect our kids so they are safe while riding in a car. Following car seat and seat belt laws and guidelines really does save lives!

If your child is not ready, stay with the booster. Passing these tests can keep your child much safer in the event of a collision.

Finally, kids should stay in the back seat until they are 13.

The child needs to be able to sit up straight with knees hanging comfortably over the edge of the seat, feet on the ground, and with the seat belt in the correct position with the shoulder belt over the middle of the chest—not near the neck.

Angela Zallen, MD is a pediatric hospitalist at PeaceHealth and has been in practice in Eugene for 7 years.

She is a certified child passenger safety technician and the co-chair of SafeKids West Oregon. She lives in Eugene with her husband, a pediatric surgeon, and their two children, two dogs and 10 chickens.

24 mommag.com

[ Momism #124:

Look both ways.

] Since 1982

Tuesday-Friday: 10am - 5:30pm Saturday: 10am - 2pm Closed Sunday & Monday

15% off

Your custom framing order

Coupon required when placing order. Some restrictions may apply.

Expires 11-23-2020

or

Free

museum glass upgrade

ucraftitframeshop.com | 541-754-6200 | 582 SW Twin Oaks Circle (Next to Papa’s Pizza)

RIGHT WHERE YOU ARE THE EASTERN EDGE

ONLINE DEGREES CONVENIENCE FLEXIBILITY

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Albany

CAROUSEL fun for everyone OPEN DAILY 10AM - 5PM ADMISSION IS ALWAYS FREE | RIDES $2

Upcoming Events 4/4 Sensory Friendly Ride

BIRTHDAY PARTIES & EVENTS PARTY PLANNING THAT'S A PIECE OF CAKE Book your party online: www.albanycarousel.com 503 1ST AVE WEST | 541.497.2934 ALBANYCAROUSEL@GMAIL.COM

10AM - Noon. To provide a more accepting and comfortable setting for individuals with sensory sensitivities and their families, we will slow the carousel down to a jog and turn off the organ music.

4/11 Easter Eggstravaganza

10AM - Noon. Hop by to hunt eggs throughout the carousel.

The Easter Bunny will be on hand for pictures.

5/1 First Friday

5:30-8PM. Fun for the whole family. Activities, dinner specials, unlimited rides. All for $5

5/2 Kentucky Derby: Night at the Races

Mint Juleps, big hats, and bow ties. Join us for an adults only night at the carousel. Tickets available on our website.

5/16 Bike & Water Safety Day

mommag.com 25

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GIVING BLOOD IS GIVING LIFE. 26 mommag.com

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GO B a GO B a -na

-n-a na -n-ass! !

There seems to be no middle ground with bananas. They either disappear within 24 hours of purchase and you find yourself saying, “Didn’t I just buy bananas?” or they hang around for days, uneaten, turning brown and attracting fruit flies. When you find yourself in the latter situation, put those over-ripe bananas to good use with these tasty treats. mommag.com 27 27 mommag.com

Go Bananas

Try peanut butter syrup on these hot cakes. +

You can double, triple or even quadruple the recipe depending on how many hungry mouths you are feeding.

Banana pancakes More than a Jack Johnson song, making banana pancakes is a tasty way to use up ripe bananas.

INGREDIENTS:

3 bananas

1 cup skim milk 1 cup white sugar ½ cup natural creamy peanut butter

2 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla

½ teaspoon vanilla DIRECTIONS:

28 mommag.com

INGREDIENTS:

3 tablespoons flour ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Ba -na -nas!

Peanut butter breakfast syrup

Combine ingredients and stir until you have a slightly lumpy batter. Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Pour or scoop batter onto griddle using approximately ¼ cup for each pancake. Cook until the pancakes are golden brown on both sides. Serve hot. Save any leftovers for snacks or tomorrow’s breakfast.

DIRECTIONS:

Stir milk, sugar, and peanut butter together in a saucepan over medium heat; bring to a boil while whisking constantly. Cook at a boil for 3 minutes, remove from heat, and stir vanilla extract into the syrup.

Source: Allrecipes.com recipe by Tara Lofley

Why did the banana go out with the prune?

Why did the banana go to see the doctor?

Because he couldn’t find a date.

The banana was not peeling very well. mommag.com 28

INGREDIENTS:

2 to 3 very ripe bananas, peeled (about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups mashed) 1/3 cup melted butter, unsalted or salted 1 teaspoon baking soda 3/4 cup sugar (1/2 cup if you would like it less sweet, 1 cup if more sweet) 1 large egg, beaten 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 11/2 cups of all-purpose flour pinch of salt DIRECTIONS:

Banana bread Every house should have a good banana bread recipe. If yours doesn’t, here it is. This is one of the most popular recipes on simplyrecipe.com and there’s no wondering why. It’s so easy and uses just one mixing bowl, so clean up is quick. You can also easily adapt it by tossing in a small handful of nuts, dried fruit, chocolate morsels, or other treats.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), and butter a 4x8-inch loaf pan. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until completely smooth, then stir in the melted butter. Mix in the baking soda and salt. Stir in sugar, beaten egg and vanilla extract, then mix in the flour. Pour batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour, or until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for a few minutes.

Then remove the banana bread from the pan and let cool completely before serving.

This recipe also makes great muffins, just reduce the cooking time to 25 to 30 minutes.

Banana benefits

This tropical fruit is more than just an easy lunchbox treat.

Bananas are well-known for their high potassium levels which helps prevent high blood pressure.

Bananas also contain vitamin C, which has been shown to help prevent cancer and B6, an immune-system booster that can help in the formation of red blood cells.

Banana-sicles Bonus tip

Try adding a variety of nuts on top for sources of omega-6, omega-3, fiber and protein

Everything is more fun when frozen.

Peel your ripe bananas and cut them in half (across the middle), then insert a wooden ice cream stick into the flat end, place on wax paper and put in the freezer for three to four hours.

Once frozen, quickly dip your frozen bananas in 6 ounces of melted chocolate morsels. Then top with your favorite treat like chopped nuts, candy sprinkles or shredded coconut.

Re-freeze until chocolate hardens.

Why were the apple and orange alone?

Because the banana split! mommag.com 29

Breakfast banana oatmeal treats MAKES 16 SMALL COOKIES.

These treats are great for breakfast-on-the-go, lunchbox snacks or a quick nibble en route to sports practice.

And since they don’t involve using a mixer or blender, it’s easy to get your little ones involved. All you really need are the ripe bananas and oatmeal—you can adjust or omit the other ingredients, depending on your taste.

INGREDIENTS:

2 large overripe bananas 1 cup quick oats 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 3/4 teaspoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon butter 1/4 cup chopped walnuts 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries pinch of salt DIRECTIONS:

Smoothie boost It almost goes without saying that adding a ripe or frozen banana to your favorite smoothie recipe adds a boost of vitamins, potassium and fiber and uses up some of those brown bananas!

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter or oil to grease two cookie sheets. Mash bananas with oats, cinnamon, sugar, salt and butter. Mix in walnuts and raisins (or dried cranberries). Drop a tablespoon of banana-oatmeal mixture onto a greased cookie sheet, then flatten with the back of a spoon, or skip flattening if you prefer softer cookies. Bake for 35 minutes, then flip cookies and bake an additional 5-10 minutes depending on preference. Cool cookies and enjoy.

Recipe source: bionicbites.com

Frozen banana soft serve dessert Before you toss your brown bananas into the freezer, peel them and cut them into chunks. Then when your kids need a sweet treat, put the frozen banana chunks (equivalent of 3 to 4 bananas) into a blender or food processor and blend until creamy. Once desired creaminess is reached, mix things up by pulsing in some treats. Here are a few of our favorites.

30 30mommag.com mommag.com

Pitted cherries

Fresh berries

Cocoa powder

Honey

Dark chocolate chips

Chocolate sauce

Mint chocolate chips

Nuts

Peanut butter

Coconut milk

try a melted white chocolate drizzle to turn these into healthy dessert snacks

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