Lane County MOM | June/July 2019

REAL | LOCAL | MOMS

Eugene | June/July 2019 | FREE

COVER MOM

TRAVELING USA

FOOD FEATURE

GENA EDGAR

ALL ABOARD

BLUEBERRIES

WE’RE 1 BECAUSE THEY’RE 1.

OREGON’S TOP-RANKED CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL. Children are our greatest gift. At Doernbecher, we built a hospital around that belief.

It’s why we have more specialists than anyone else in the state. And we’re the only children’s hospital in Oregon to rank among the best in the country.

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It’s what‘s

All Aboard

20

Meet the MOM experts.... 4

inside that counts

You Rock

26

They know what they're

Helping mom and baby thrive.......................... 8

talking about

What moms need to know

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

Vacation MOM................... 6 What's new at Disneyland

about infant tongue and lip tie

Cover MOM: Gena Edgar.......................10 This mom gets real

Blueberries 28 All aboard..........................20 Traveling the United States

You rock.............................26 Painting and hiding rocks

Summer time in the blueberry patch..............28 Recipes with NW blueberries

from Eugene Airport

More ways to love your MOM Blog: mommag.com

Facebook: facebook.com/ lovemommag

Cover MOM

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 9

Beyond the bin

™

with Sarah Grimm, page 18

“Having children is like living in a frat house nobody sleeps, everything's

throwing up. ― Ray Romano

4 mommag.com

“

broken, and there's a lot of

Because I said so!

Published by GO Creative, LLC 263 29th Avenue SW Albany, OR 97322 Editor-in-Chief Managing Director Angela Hibbard angela@mommag.com 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 We love hearing from you. Email info@mommag.com with feedback, story ideas or nominations.

MOM MagazineTM is produced by GO Creative, LLC. © 2018 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.

Are we there yet?

Our family has taken a lot of road trips over the years.

In fact, one of my few mom brags is that my kids are great travelers. But that doesn’t immunize us from bumps along the road. I can’t think of a single journey that hasn’t involved some sort of derailment often related to vomit, lost lovies, potty mishaps, a trip to urgent care, or all of the above. At the time I can't help thinking, “Can't we just get there?” But it’s often these times, or how we respond to them, that we remember most and that have become family folklore. The destination might be forgotten, but we remember the moments.

In motherhood, just like road trips, I can get too focused on the next mile marker and lose sight of the journey. Are we (sleeping through the night, walking, talking, potty trained) there yet?

When my son was in preschool, I worked with him to identify colors for what seemed like forever. We selected a color each week and had fun spotting it all around town. Then, one day shortly after “red week,” we spotted a red truck and I was so deflated when he didn’t recognize it as red. I thought, “Are you kidding? After all that work, we’re not there yet? Now I see that the destination wasn’t learning colors (although that’s important), it was all the fun we had together exploring our town. My son didn’t care what color the truck was, he was just in the moment hanging out with his mom.

So whether you’re on or off the road, the next time you find yourself wondering if you’re there yet remember that, yes, you are. You are exactly where you need to be: in the moment… however awkward, exhausting, amusing or messy it might be.

Angela's kids, Catherine and Liam, on the road.

Why? Because I said so!

Angela Hibbard MOM Magazine Editor-in-Chief

mommag.com 5

’

There’s a lot of buzz about the Disneyland Resort. If you have not been for a few years, or ever, there’s lots of new and exciting things going on.

Star Wars: ​Galaxy’s Edge

The Disneyland Resort is made up of the original Disneyland Park; Disney California Adventure Park, which opened in 2001; Downtown Disney District, the admission-free entertainment area, and the three Disney Hotels.

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The biggest news in decades is the opening of a​Star Wars-themed land in Disneyland on May 31, 2019. This 14-acre area puts you in the middle of a ​ Star Wars​movie on Planet Batuu and will feature themed rides, restaurants and shops including Oga’s Cantina which will be the first location in Disneyland where the public can purchase “adult beverages.”

This will be welcome news to many parents! Due to the anticipated crowds, guests will be required to have reservations to enter Galaxy’s Edge for the first month that it is open. After the first month, there will be limits on how many guests are allowed to enter Galaxy’s Edge each day.

New Rules Disneyland and Walt Disney World have added restrictions on strollers.

They are no longer allowing stroller wagons or any stroller wider than 31 inches or longer than 52 inches. They are also going smoke-free with no smoking allowed inside any of the parks. You can bring drinks and snacks into the parks, but loose or dry ice are not allowed.

BOARDING PASS Flights to Southern California from Eugene Airport

LAX

Allegiant Airlines Non-stop flights to LAX American Airlines Non-stop flights to LAX United Airlines Flights to LAX & Orange County

The popularity of the Disneyland Parks has led to increased crowds and long lines at attractions. It is estimated that an average of over 50,000 people are at Disneyland Park every day. To try and combat the long lines for attractions, Disneyland Parks have the FASTPASS system which allows you to make a reservation to visit a ride at a later designated time with a much shorter line. This is available for free to all guests with one FASTPASS at a time. Currently there are 13 rides and attractions at Disneyland Park and nine at California Adventures that offer FASTPASS. You now have the option to purchase a MaxPass for $15 per day, per ticket that gives you several benefits. Using the free Disneyland mobile app, you can book unlimited

FASTPASS reservations as soon as you enter one of the Disneyland Parks. You also receive the Disney PhotoPass with unlimited photo downloads of pictures taken throughout the Parks.

Matching t-shirts and/or Mickey Ears for your family or group

Admission tickets There are two types of admission tickets: One Park Per Day and Hopper (good for both parks in one day). The more days you purchase, the lower the per-day cost.

In an effort to reduce crowds, Disney now has a tiered ticket price system with higher prices on the busiest dates. This tiered pricing only applies to the purchase of one-day tickets.

Disney-themed items (from Walmart or Dollar Tree) Charged phone w/extra battery packs (load the free Disneyland app) Good walking shoes Sunscreen & sunglasses Sweatshirts for the evenings

There is fun for the whole family at the Disneyland Resort. The most important thing to remember is to enjoy this time with your family and be a kid again yourself!

Photo courtesy of Disney Resort

Delta Airlines Flights to LAX & Orange County

Checklist of items to bring

Snacks and water bottles in a backpack Glow sticks and light-up toys

Brought to you by:

FASTPASS & MaxPass

Alaska/Horizon Air Flights to LAX & Orange County

MEET VACATION MOM

TM

Donnita Bassinger, CTC, MCC is Vacation MOM and a Certified Travel Consultant and Master Cruise Counselor. Donnita is the owner of VIP Vacations, Inc. and lives in Eugene with her family. She has vacationed at the Disneyland Resort with her children 10 times in the past 16 years and sent hundreds of families on Magical Vacations. Look for her on Facebook at Vacation MOM.

mommag.com 7

Helping mom & baby thrive Infant tongue and lip tie In some cases, difficulty with feeding, swallowing, breathing, digestion, speech and

• inability to use or hold bottle or pacifier well • digestive issues (such as increased gassiness,

structure (head/neck/jaw tension, etc.) can be

reflux, colic, vomiting,

caused by tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia. This is a

distended stomach)

congenital condition in which the tongue and/ or lip is too tight, causing restrictions of mobility and functionality. Tongue or lip ties can present differently for everyone, but some common symptoms include: • poor latch or inability to latch • fatigue or sleepiness during feeds • irritability while feeding

• maternal nipple pain or damage (feels like the infant is compressing, chewing, gumming, pinching the nipple) • increased maternal nipple or breast infection • compromised maternal milk supply

Assessment and treatment

Early motherhood is a beautiful time but, let’s face it, it can also be stressful as you and your baby learn new rhythms of eating and sleeping (or not). When your baby struggles, it’s even more stressful for mom.

choice about the course of treatment. Surgical release of a tight frenulum is called a frenectomy. The treatment is carried out with a laser and is usually straightforward. General

anesthesia, sutures or complex oral medications are usually not needed. The benefits of laser surgery include excellent precision, eradication of oral bacteria, and reduced bleeding, swelling and pain.

A village approach Treatment of feeding issues often requires a multi-disciplinary collaboration of several providers, depending on the specific situation

Since tongue or lip ties present in many

of the infant. Tongue-tie release is only one

• poor weight gain

different ways the variance in assessment and

step in the process of optimizing feeding

• clicking during a feed

treatment standards can be challenging for

outcomes. Some key players in the circle of

parents seeking evaluation and care for their

care for babies dealing with tongue and lip tie

potentially tongue and lip tied-infant. So it’s

include a board-certified lactation consultant

important to get support from professionals

(IBCLC), the treating provider (the doctor or

who have sought greater learning, training and

dentist performing the surgery), bodyworkers

experience in this area so that they can identify

(chiro/craniosacral, PT, etc), or additional care

ties effectively and help you seek treatment

providers like a speech language pathologist

if necessary.

(SLP) or oral myofunctional therapist. Such

If an evaluation reveals symptoms of frenulum

therapies are often needed to improve function

(lip) restriction, parents will be provided with

and reduce feeding stress, structural tension,

information so they can make a fully informed

improve strength and overall feeding progress.

• dribbling milk at the breast or bottle

While frenectomy is an important treatment option when there are tethered oral tissues, families are strongly encouraged to collaborate with their care team to optimize feeding outcomes overall. Visit Dr. Ben A. Sutter to keep your family smiling.

Ben A. Sutter DMD, Diplomate - American Board of Laser Surgery

1045 Willagillespie Road Suite 150, Eugene Forbeautifulsmiles.com (541) 515-7279

1 8 mommag.com

The future’s so bright...

Keep your child’s future bright by protecting their eyes from the sun’s harmful UV radiation. When it comes to sunglasses, more parents are putting their kids first.

Here’s why.

• Up to 80 % of a person’s lifetime exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light is received before the age of 18.

• Sunglasses are not about controlling brightness; they are about blocking UV radiation.

• Clouds don’t always block UV rays.

• Studies have shown the importance of wearing sunglasses at preventing eye disease.

• Sunglasses should block 99 to 100% of UV-A ​and U​V-B rays.

• The EPA recommends UV protective sunglasses when the UV Index is 3 or greater—check the daily UV index on any weather app; it is scaled from 1 to 11+.

Visit our office or any pediatric optometrist for more information about protecting your child’s eyes.

Brought to you by

David Hackett, O.D.

4765 Village Plaza Loop, Eugene (541) 342-3100 • lifetimeeyecare.net

Explore. Play. Create.

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mommag.com 9

Cover MOM

Q Photo credit: Fremouw Photography Cover MOM and banker Gena Edgar shares her insights into motherhood, prioritizing self care, setting financial goals and the pursuit of an even bigger mom bag.

10 mommag.com

Gena Edgar

Q& A Who is MOM?

Community/hometown: Born in Bend,

OR, moved to Brookings, OR, at age 10, currently living in Eugene, OR. Family: Lillian, age 9, and Jack, age 5.

Profession: Branch Manager of Washington Federal Bank, Coburg Road location.

! l a e r s t Ge

Family comes first.

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

When my daughter started kindergarten her birthday request was that I take the day off of work and spend it with her at school. We’ve done that four years in a row and I love it.

The teachers appreciate the help too.

Do you think that parenting is easier or more challenging than when you were growing up?

I think it is just different. Every generation has its own challenges. For us, it’s keeping a balance of time away from screens and electronics, and experiencing the world hands-on instead. When my kids can’t think of anything fun to do besides their tablet, we take a week or month off from them completely and reset. We don’t make this a punishment, usually, we just explain that we need to reset and find other things to do. It doesn’t always go over well but, after a few days, they’re completely fine.

Tell us about one of your most humbling mom moments.

When my son was an infant, he threw up at the grocery store all over the shopping cart, floor and me, and nobody offered to help.

Sure it was gross, but a Kleenex would have been amazingly helpful!

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

Make multiple dinners. I thought I would make my kids eat whatever I make but, sometimes, that is harder than it sounds.

Some nights I make them macaroni and cheese and something else for us parents,

because it’s more enjoyable to sit and eat and talk, than it is to force them to eat something else and struggle through dinner.

Do you have any tips for families preparing for a summer vacation or road trip?

As a banker, I would say to let your bank know that you’ll be traveling anywhere out of state or country. Washington Federal, as well as most banks, has a department that can help detect unusual activity. Letting your bank know where you’ll be can help them detect fraud vs. anticipated activity. Also, I use a credit card when traveling instead of my debit card to avoid putting our cash at risk. Pay off the balance when you get home.

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 am a Branch Manager at Washington Federal Bank in Eugene, on Coburg Road. I have worked for the company for over six years. I feel lucky to have been hired and trained into management with such a wonderful company that respects its employees. I never saw myself in banking, or business of any kind, until after college. I love what I do—from helping someone open their very first checking account, to helping them through the loan process to buy or build their dream home—I love being able to help people meet their goals.

I also volunteer with my daughter’s Arts Attack class and as many classroom events or field trips as I can with my kids’ elementary school. One of my favorite causes to Continued on page 14

mommag.com 11

may be one person, but to one person you may be the world.” ~ Dr. Seuss

…way to let off steam: Going for a

walk, or listening to loud music in the car by myself.

…way to get out of making dinner: My kids often ask to go out to eat at Noodles and Co. or Subway. All I need to do is agree.

…time-saving app or digital tool:

Online banking. Although I work at my bank, I never actually get around to doing my own banking at work.

Tea or Coffee?

Bath or Shower?

Morning or Night?

Math or English?

Fly or Drive?

Hot or Cold?

Gold or Silver?

Sweet or

Coffee

Morning Fly

Silver

Dog or Cat?

Dog

Beer or Wine?

Wine

for MOM

Quick questions

MOM’s favorite…

…words to live by: “To the world you

Shower

Math Hot

Savory?

Sweet Hugs or Kisses?

Hugs

Ice cream or Chocolate?

Ice Cream Early or Late?

Early

?

Q& A

Continued from page 11

support is CASA of Lane County. They are advocates for children in foster care going through the courts, who would otherwise not have a voice of their own.

Washington Federal recently volunteered at the Duck Dash and 5K pancake breakfast at Autzen Stadium, which CASA benefited from, and helped make around 3,000 pancakes!

What have you learned professionally, that has helped you as a mom?

Never assume anything. Always verify.

What financial advice would you give to other moms? How do you pay for childcare, save for a house, college, retirement and the occasional family vacation?

Set priorities that match up with your values or, in other words, spend your money according to the things you value most. And have a savings account for a specific goal, if it requires saving money. Just set an automatic transfer at the beginning of each month, or whenever you’re paid, so you don’t have to remember to save.

How do you balance (or not) motherhood, activities, work, volunteering, household responsibilities, and life in general? Typically, what falls through the cracks?

Typically what falls through the cracks are my personal to-dos, and there’s always something I forget to add to the grocery list. Recently I’ve made a much more specific attempt to take care of myself by exercising and having a hobby of my own, and not let that fall through the cracks. But it still happens sometimes.

There are never enough hours in the day to do it all.

Tell us about a recent achievement you’re proud of, or a personal passion or talent.

This seems small but to me it’s big. I got a Fitbit and have been using it to remind me to take care of myself.

I’ve been meeting or surpassing my daily goals on a regular basis! As a mom, it’s hard to put yourself first or even second but, when I do put myself first once in a while, it is really a big boost to my productivity.

14 mommag.com

Do you have a goal you’d like to accomplish within the next five years?

Donate blood on a regular basis—at least twice a year. I’ve donated three times this year so far. When my daughter was born my life was saved by blood donations and I want to repay that by donating blood to others.

If mom’s not happy, nobody’s happy.

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

My dad used to calmly, but seriously, say “Just do it right away. Just go do it.” I still hear that in my head when I’m debating being lazy or not. It usually works.

Thanks, Dad! When was the last time you did something for the first time?

I’ve never been in a magazine, so I’d have to say being in MOM Magazine.

Which good habit do you wish you started earlier?

Saving money for retirement. I could have started right after college with a 401k and didn’t. I could have started an IRA and didn’t. Even if it had just been a couple of thousand dollars, it would have still been growing today! I am lucky now to have a great retirement plan with Washington Federal Bank.

What is the quality you like most about yourself?

Positivity. I can find good in everyone and stay positive through most hard situations. I have emotions, of course, but I can move on from sadness or anger and find something positive to focus on.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Starbucks Caramel Cloud Macchiato. It’s Heaven in a cup.

Outside of your family members, who/what inspires you to be better?

Seeing people who struggle to find housing or battle addiction. It reminds me to be happy with what I have, to stay healthy, have a safe place to live and be happy with my family near me.

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

Travel abroad and experience a different culture. I’ll never regret taking the opportunity in college to study in Poitiers, France, for a year.

They say that everyone has a book in them. What’s the title of your book?

Mom Bag: A guide to finding an even larger purse.

mommag.com 15

Message from mom Is motherhood what you expected? What surprised you the most?

I was scared to have a son since I grew up around girls, apart from my dad and grandfathers, and I already had a daughter.

But I discovered that being a mom to a boy is amazing. I love having one of each, and it gives you a slightly different perspective on the differences between men and women.

Who or what has influenced the mother you are today?

My own mom, of course. She was my first mom role model. It seems like every day I see someone or something that helps me

discover one more piece of what it means to me to be a good mom. It is ever changing, because the challenges keep changing.

What’s the best advice you’ve received from another mom?

Some things are best learned by making a mistake and learning from it. If my kids won't listen to my advice, it may be something that they have to learn the hard way. I’ll be there to help them, if needed.

What advice would you give your younger mom self—what do you wish you knew then that you know now?

I would tell her, “Don’t forget to have your hobbies and make sure you can still be yourself. Also, you didn’t need to buy nearly

as many clothes when Lilian was a baby— just save the money and forego the tiny shoes. You’ll need it for the big shoes. Plus, their tiny toes are cuter than shoes.”

What message would you like to share with other moms? Remember to tell it like it is.

Nobody’s perfect. I often share our best photos and stories on social media, but sometimes I’ll share stories of things that have gone terribly wrong, like when I didn’t know what to do about my kid’s temper tantrum in the store, or how I accidentally wore two different shoes to work, and that time I dropped purple coleslaw all over the corner wall trying to clean up after dinner.

Those kinds of things are real and normal.

[ Momism #172: Buckle

up.

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Call for a tour!

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mommag.com 17

Gardening

WASTE-FREE without chemicals

Summer Entertaining

Garden chemicals can be expensive and harmful to children, pets, wildlifeentertaining (pollinators) and waterways. money​Itand the Earth Outdoor doesn’t have toSo besave wasteful. is possible toby following these tips to make chemicals unnecessary in the garden. avoid the mountains of waste caused by paper and plastic single-use items ​like cups, plates, napkins, utensils and individually-wrapped snacks and treats. Try these suggestions instead.

>>

Plan your menu to prevent the need for dishes and utensils.

Food on skewers, sandwichestowrapped in parchment and Mulch-mow (aka grasscycle) save time and money. finger foods arefree all fun options.

Clippings act as fertilizer.

Leave them as is, or rake them in

toBuy getsnacks better in contact with theofsoil. bulk instead individually-wrapped servings, to save money and prevent waste.

For Trim beverages, it’s quite Mow regularly, when the grass is dry. only about 1/3 off the opposite, buy drinks in returnable bottles and cans to the top. Aim for 3 inches in height to shade out weeds and avoid the purchase and disposal of trashed cups.

Oregon encourages deeper roots.

Bottle Drop centers redeem 10 cents for ​any beverage bottle

Clean up garden debris in fall/winter. Many pests lay eggs in (4 oz – 1.5 liter) that did not contain milk, meal-replacement, the leaf litter to hatch the following year. wine or spirits.

Neem oil, diatomaceous earth, and insecticidal soap work Ask guests to bring their own plate and utensils or create an just as well as pesticides without risking chemical harm to outdoor party kit of your own—shop thrift stores or get children, pets, pollinators and waterways. friends to donate and you’ll have enough for any size party.

Make your own pest sprays using common household To learn more about Lane County’s event recycling and durable ingredients such as garlic, cayenne, dish soap and Epsom salts. dishware loan program visit You’ll find easy recipes online. www.lanecounty.org/eventrecycling

For free disposal of home and garden chemicals, just call 541-682-4120 to make an appointment.

Brought to you by

18 mommag.com

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

mommag.com 1

Q& A What’s in your mom purse right now? No, seriously, empty it out; take a picture.

Thanks to Cover MOM Gena Edgar for keeping it real.

Host a French or Spanish Student for a Few Weeks This Summer!

Students are 13-18 years old, excited to share your home and family life. A rewarding cultural experience for your family!

Find out more at www.americandiscovery.net or contact Ashley Franckowiak at ashley@americandiscovery.net or 541-302-3393.

mommag.com 19

All aboard o! g we Here

For many families summer means the call of the open road and the annual summer road trip. That’s certainly true for the Evans family who have logged their fair share of miles over the years. But for their most recent adventure they decided to go off road or—more precisely— to hit the rails. This family of five crossed the country by train for their “bucket list” East Coast vacation. Here’s how they did it.

Albany

Sacramento Traveled through 19 states

How long does it take to cross the country by train?

Albany, OR - Sacramento , CA

14 hrs Each railroad tie is 30 minutes

20 mommag.com

Sacramento, CA - Chicago, IL

50 hrs

Inspiration for the trip. i n g to

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Boston New York Philadelphia Washington D.C.

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Chicago, IL - Boston, MA

21.5 hrs

os N t on ew , Yo M A rk ,N N ew Y Ph Yo i l rk a , P h de l N Y ph i ia W lad , as e h i lph PA ng ia to , P n, A D .C .

National Park Passport Stamps

93

Hours spent on trains.

B

Wa s h

Visiting extended family on the East Coast and some pretty incredible cities was on our “bucket list.” We chose the train because we really wanted to give the boys the experience of seeing the vast and ever-changing landscape of our country—America and all her rich beauty and history. We also wanted to make sure John had a chance to enjoy it and not be driving the entire time.

4 hrs

1.5 hrs 2 hrs

1

Trip of a life time.

mommag.com 21

Continued from page 21

The Evans family: John, Noah, Ryan, Caleb, and Wendy departing for their cross-country train journey.

Cost.

We purchased Amtrak U.S. Rail Passes ($460 for adults/$230 kids ages 2-12) good for up to eight segments over the course of 15 days. Be careful because it is eight segments, not eight destinations. We were able to use our passes for our entire trip, including between cities on the East Coast. We did, however, choose to fly home.

The highs.

One of the biggest highlights for us was just how easily the boys jumped into travel mode. They seemed to truly appreciate that what they were doing was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It was also very fun to meet and visit with new people. When you are stuck on a train with strangers, it's amazing how quickly you can become friends.

The lows.

While the train from Sacramento to Chicago was very roomy and comfortable, the train from Chicago to Boston was extremely crowded. There was no room to stretch out and no observation deck to visit, so we were essentially trapped in our seats for 21 hours and running low on snacks. Boston couldn’t come fast enough!

22 mommag.com 10

Sleeping arrangements.

Because sleeping cars for a family of five were so expensive, we slept in coach. On the cross-country train we were lucky to be in the very back of the last car so we had very few disruptions. Each of us had a fleece sleeping bag that rolled up nice and tight, and a travel pillow. The fleece sleeping bags were another golden ticket! They helped the boys get nice and cozy—and they now bring them on all road or plane trips.

The seats themselves were comfy. Not only did they recline, but they also had a fold-out extension for your feet. At 5’3” and below, the boys and I were able to get a fairly decent night’s sleep. My poor husband though, at just shy of 6’, had a harder time.

Continued on page 24

[ Momism

#182: Don't make me turn this car around.

[ Let Vacation MOM Plan Your Dream Vacation!

Making discoveries about how children learn and grow!

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Family Vacations Romantic Getaways Cruises All Inclusive Resorts Disney Vacations

Join our contact list to hear about opportunities to participate!

Join here:

teamduckling.uoregon.edu

Donnita Bassinger VIP Vacations, Inc. 541-688-7473 Facebook: Vacation MOM mommag.com 23

Food.

We knew that, if we weren’t careful, we would blow our entire trip’s food budget while on the train. So we purchased a soft-sided cooler for the train that would also fold down flat and fit in a suitcase for the flight home. We filled the cooler and a grocery bag with food for the train before we left. For breakfast, we had oatmeal packets (we used hot water from the café car) or bagels and cream cheese. For lunch, we had PB&J, salami, cheeses, crackers, etc. For dinner, we brought burritos on the train the first night, and then an entire pizza in the cooler for the next two nights. We also brought an assortment of snacks that packed a nutritional punch because, on a trip like this, there’s no room for empty calorie meltdowns. And, of course, homemade cookies because they fix just about every mood swing. We did do one meal in the dining car because it is definitely part of the train experience.

Are we there yet?

For the train, each boy had a clipboard with a storage area for drawing paper, a chapter book (or four for the oldest), puzzle books, hand puzzles and a deck of cards. The deck of cards was golden! The boys also brought MP3 players for music but, otherwise, no electronics with the exception of a game on our phone here and there.

We were really fortunate that we were able to get a table in the observation car each day of the cross-country trip.

This allowed us to have a great view of the passing landscape, a table to eat or play games on, plus a lot of opportunities to visit with other travelers. The boys were able to go back and forth between our seats at the end of the train and the observation car in the middle of the train.

We basically spent the days visiting, reading, playing a lot of card games, drawing, taking pictures, hanging out with other passengers and, honestly, just watching the country unfold out our window.

Stop the train!

When traveling by train, the only true layovers are when you are switching trains. After the first night, we arrived in Sacramento early in the morning and had time to go out to eat breakfast and wander through Old Town Sacramento. It was a great introduction to our American History trip to the East Coast. Traveling across country most stops were just long enough for people to get on and off. However, every few hours they would have a slightly longer stop so that passengers could get off and stretch their legs. During these stops, we made our kids run laps back and forth on the platform to get the wiggles out and reset moods.

Travel

ADVICE If you’re thinking about planning your own family train trip, take some advice from the Evans family

Set the tone. Attitude is everything. You the parents set the tone for the trip.

Study up. We spent weeks reading books

about American History so that what we saw on our trip would mean more. We also watched National Treasure since it visits each of the main cities we were planning to visit.

This helped the boys appreciate the importance of the museums and artifacts we visited. Lastly, and probably the most helpful and by complete accident, we had been watching The Amazing Race leading up to our trip. The boys not only gained an appreciation of travel, but they also observed what works well when traveling together and what doesn’t. I really believe that this had a tremendous effect on their attitudes throughout the trip.

Scenario plan. Talk through potential

situations with your kids beforehand so they know what to do in different circumstances.

Empower your kids. Whenever possible, let them make choices and allow them to handle their own ticket. The more you allow them to feel grown up on a trip like this, the more mature and easy-going the trip will be.

Keep something up your sleeve. Don’t

show your whole hand at once. Introduce new activities (and snacks) throughout the trip.

Feed them. Often!

Laugh a lot. Be able to laugh at the bumps

in the road (or on the train) that are bound to happen.

Praise. Tell them frequently that you are so

glad you have kids that can travel like this.

Remind them that you can take a trip like this because you have kids that can handle it. Set the bar realistically high and they will reach it.

Special thanks to the Evans family for sharing their train journey with us.

mommag.com 24

[ Momism #190:

We'll get there when we get there.

[ 500 and counting...

A place where youth create, play & heal.

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mommag.com 25

You Rock! ck ” o r g m in o k r c “F ro to Who knew that rocks could be so cute? People are having so much fun painting rocks that it’s becoming a movement across the country to paint and hide rocks for others to find. The idea is to spread a little kindness and joy by sharing an inspiring word or phrase, a whimsical design or, simply, a cute image. It’s easy, really. Just paint a rock and leave it behind on your next hike or adventure for someone else to find. Be sure to put a message on the back so folks know what to do when they find it.

26 mommag.com

Feeling ready to paint?

Just follow these simple tips from MOM reader, Kim Long.

Tip Nº1 Hiding and searching for rocks is

Tip Nº2 A note about collecting rocks

a great way to keep your kids engaged during your summer hikes and adventures. Be sure to join the painted rock movement so you can tag and share your finds.

to paint. The best place to collect rocks is a river bed, right? Well you can’t, or aren’t supposed to for obvious reason—if everyone did that, there wouldn’t be any rocks left.

So when you are on a hike you can collect rocks, just as long as they’re not near water.

...GROUPS TO CHECK OUT ON SOCIAL MEDIA Lane County “Rocks” #LCR! #EPR Eugene Painted Rocks West Coast Painted Rocks #WCPR Pacific Northwest Painted Rocks #PNWPR

Start by cleaning your rocks with warm, soapy water.

Tip Nº3 Make it a family affair. It’s easy to involve the whole family in your rock art. Little kids are great at applying base coats and making simple shapes or designs. Older kids love to search Pinterest for ideas. And, of course, everyone loves to find and hide rocks.

Prime with white acrylic paint to help enhance color. Sketch letters with pencil first, then use small brushes to make an outline.

Don’t forget to write a message on the back

Use a mix of acrylic paints and paint markers to achieve bold or watercolor looks. Some markers will wash away, so test an area before the final design is finished or placed outside.

Rocks can be sealed with a spray so colors don’t bleed. Apply sparingly and let dry completely between coats. Apply at least two coats.

mommag.com 27

One of the sure signs of summer in the Northwest is blueberries. They’re delicious all on their own, or try mixing things up with some of these blueberry-inspired recipes.

Blueberry & mint spritzer

Blueberry cheesecake

When mom needs a cocktail, this refreshing spritzer is just the thing.

Or forego the alcohol and make it a mocktail everyone can enjoy.

As if blueberries weren’t good enough, this cheesecake recipe pairs the sweet-tart flavor of fresh blueberries with savory cream cheese for a decadent-tasting dessert.

Ingredients: 3 cups blueberries, fresh or frozen

Ingredients:

1 cup simple syrup:

3 tablespoons honey, divided

½ cup lime juice

1 container (8 ounces) nonfat orange or tangerine yogurt

2 teaspoons lemon zest 1 cup mint leaves, torn 4 cups club soda 8 fluid ounces vodka (optional) 1 cup blueberries, fresh Directions:

To make the blueberry base combine the first four ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil, remove from the heat and add the mint leaves, then stir with a wooden spoon to release the mint aromas. Chill completely and strain out solids into a container by pushing on the blueberries to extract as much juice as possible.

For each drink combine 3 ounces of the chilled blueberry base in a shaker with ½ cup ice cubes; 1 fluid ounce vodka, if using, and shake to muddle and strain into a chilled glass. Add 4 ounces club soda and garnish with a few blueberries and a mint leaf.

28 mommag.com

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

4 ounces low-fat cream cheese, from an 8-ounce package ¾ cup nonfat cottage cheese 1 tablespoon cornstarch 2 eggs 2 cups fresh blueberries Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and 2 tablespoons of the honey, then transfer to a 9-inch pie plate. With the back of a spoon, press mixture onto bottom and halfway up sides of plate.

In a food processor container, place yogurt, cream cheese, cottage cheese and cornstarch. Whirl until smooth, about 1 minute. Add eggs, whirl until blended.

Pour about half of the cheese mixture onto the crust. Top with ½

HAN DLE WITH

CARE

Looking for more blueberry love?

Try the blueberry coffee cake recipe on oregonblueberry.com

If you’ve gone to the effort of picking those luscious berries, make sure you’re handling and storing them correctly.

FRESH & FROZEN BLUEBERRIES When buying fresh blueberries, select firm, plump and unblemished berries in dry, unstained containers. The blueberries should be free of surface moisture, which accelerates decay.

Color is the best indicator of

blueberry maturity and fully developed flavor. Blueberries should be deep purple-blue to blue-black, with a natural powdery bloom or fine snowy white dust on the surface.

Shelf-life for blueberries is

longer than other berries— generally 10 days to two weeks from harvest.

STORAGE & THAWING TIPS: • Arrange unwashed blueberries in a shallow container.

• Cover blueberries while storing.

• Wash blueberries just prior to use.

cup of the blueberries, then cover with remaining cheese mixture.

Bake until firm, about 35 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.

In a microwaveable dish, microwave the remaining 1 tablespoon honey just until liquefied, about 15 seconds. Add the remaining 1 ½ cups blueberries and toss to coat. Top pie with berries.

Loosely cover pie and refrigerate until firm, about 3 hours.

• Blueberries should be thawed under refrigerated conditions to ensure an optimal defrost.

• Never refreeze thawed fruit.

Properly thawed, cultivated blueberries will maintain their original freshness.

Thanks to the Oregon Blueberry Commission for these recipes and tips www.oregonblueberry.com

mommag.com 29

Congratulations, Ashley Stephens!

Women’s Care in Eugene/Springfield received dozens of wonderful nominations as part of its Mother’s Day contest. Ashley Stephens was selected as an outstanding mom who embodies the #WomenWhoCare motto. Here’s why Ashley’s friends nominated her for this honor: Ashley Stephens is a young, stay-at-home mom of two little boys. Ashley is taking care of her family while coordinating care for her youngest son’s cancer treatment. She exemplifies strength and grace and epitomizes the meaning of motherhood. Her youngest son is battling leukemia and must take weekly trips to Portland for chemo and blood transfusions. Ashley’s entire focus is the well-being of her two sons. She has a single family income and must take trips to Doernbecher Children’s Hospital in Portland that are extremely draining. All of her extra money goes to the weekly trips, which means there is no money to take a day for herself. This journey has been hard, but she has carried the load well. Ashley deserves to get a couple of hours to feel good and relax. She will love getting pampered at Bello Salon & Spa. Ashley says she loves the Women’s Care team and wants to thank them for all of their support. She says she would do anything for her kids, and she feels blessed to have her boys no matter what trials they have to face together.

Thank you, Jessika and Melanie, for the nomination.

Let us care for you through all stages of life.

Women’s Care at Country Club:

(541) 686-2922 Women’s Care at Riverbend:

(541) 868-9700

WomensCare.com 30 mommag.com

[ Momism #28: I saw that. [

s k n Thato our

s r e s i t r e v d a

LANE COUNTY FARMERS MARKET

SUPERHERO DAY

Blank Space

-Maybe OWP ad?

FARMERS MARKET FAMILY DAY Superhero Day! Tuesday, June 25 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

MOM Magazine is freely distributed throughout the community. Show your appreciation by patronizing the businesses you see in MOM Magazine.

Park Blocks at 8th Ave. and Oak St. Dust off your Superhero outfits and join us at the Tuesday Farmers Market for some family fun! There will also be a ladybug release, giant chess set and live music.

• LOVE FOOD NOT WASTE Interactive recycling education game. (an engaging activity for kids and families) • MECCA •RAINBOW KIDS YOGA • ART CITY SUPERHERO

Tell them

sent you. Why?

so!

Because I said

“As a community bank with deep roots in the Northwest, Columbia Bank is honored to sponsor the Lane County Farmers Market!”

Sponsored by

mommag.com 31

263 29th Avenue SW | Albany, OR 97322 541-926-0353 | 541-926-1515 fax

www.mommag.com | info@mommag.com

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