Salem MOM | April / May 2022

real local moms

since 2005

Salem | April / May 2022

COVER MOM

FAMILY

FOOD

MONICA GIROD

PHOTO SHOOT

FISH FOR DINNER

Extraordinary care close to home

Family Medicine Clinics in Aumsville, Stayton, Sublimity and Mill City Surgery Center with large Operating Rooms and State-of-the-Art Technology Specialty Clinics in Cardiology, Orthopedics, Pulmonary Family Birth Center Compassionate Highly-Trained RNs, Labor Tubs, OHSU NICU Telemedicine Support Emergency Room 24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week with short wait times

503.769.2175 · 1401 N 10th Ave., Stayton · santiamhospital.org

It’s what‘s

Family photo shoot

18

inside that counts

Sustainable home decor

22

Fish for dinner 25

Meet the MOM experts ... 4

Healthy MOM..................... 8

Family photo shoot.........18

They know what they’re

Allergies are no sneezing

How to get your crew looking

talking about.

matter

their best.

Because I said so............... 5

Cover MOM: Monica Girod...................10

Sustainable home decor......................22

A message from MOM

This mom gets real.

Fish for dinner..................25

More ways to love your MOM mommag.com facebook.com/ lovemommag info@mommag.com We love hearing from you. Email us with feedback, story ideas or nominations.

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

Contact Kim Leighty at kim.leighty@mommag.com mommag.com 3

meet the

experts

[They know what they’re talking about] Pets Pets are Family with Dr. Emily Kalenius, Page 6

Drive

Health

On the Road with Rashelle Robinson, page 24

Healthy MOM with Santiam Hospital, page 8

Say Cheese Say Cheese with Dr. Ana Castilla, page 30

“You never know what I have up my sleeve.

Today, for example, it was a dryer sheet.

“

— Just about every mom

4 mommag.com

EDITOR'S NOTE

Because I said so!

Published by GO Creative, LLC 263 29th Avenue SW Albany, OR 97322 Editor-in-Chief Managing Director Audrey Meier DeKam audrey@mommag.com Salem Advertising Representative Kim Leighty kim.leighty@mommag.com 503-510-9036 Mid-Valley & Lane County Business Development Manager Linda Blair linda@mommag.com 541-231-7250 Designer Sean Carver

MOM MagazineTM is produced by GO Creative, LLC. © 2022 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.

Current mood: celebrate good times Gotcha singing the song now, eh? It’s peppy, which is what we’re trying to feel, in an attempt to counterbalance the global headlines of doom. Spring is a hopeful season, and if there’s anything the past few years has cemented in my personal mantras, it’s this: the not-great parts of life can hit unexpectedly, so grab joy when you can.

It’s part of why I asked my 15-year-old recently, “Wanna go see a giant fork in the road?” He’s currently learning how to drive, so he grunted his approval and off we went.

Here’s what a silly roadside attraction can do for you: it can spark joy, without needing to clean out your closet.

Something else I’m celebrating this season: our Community Impact Award winners for 2022, awarded to hardworking local nonprofits. In Eugene, Ophelia’s Place gives girls support to build resiliency and discover their strength. In Corvallis/Albany, Jackson Street Youth Services provides shelter to vulnerable teens. Our Salem winner, Marion Polk Food Share, provides food for families in need, many of them women with young children. You’ll see our winners’ ads in our local magazines over the coming year, and we encourage you to check out their many good works.

Mother’s Day is also on the celebration docket. Don’t forget about your other mothers: these are the bonus moms in your life who helped you along your way.

I can think of many, starting with the mother who watched me in my borrowed,

The Fork in the Road is in Lebanon, and you can find it on Google Maps.

too-large cheerleading skirt in eighth grade, winding the waistband up so it didn’t hang below my knees. She said, you give me that skirt for a few days and I’ll alter it so it fits you properly. I’m still in awe of her skill — the skirt had pleats and a fabric best described as uncooperative. Over three decades later, I still think of her with fondness for looking out for me.

I’m also lucky to have a mother-in-law who is a Betty White-level of likable. I adore her for many reasons, including that we can dish with one another on what it’s like being married to DeKam men. She randomly texts and asks, Can I bring over some cookies?

Oh yes please, and when she arrives, she also has dog treats in her pocket for her granddog.

Whatever you’re celebrating this spring, sing that Kool & The Gang classic and enjoy every last iota of joy you can.

Audrey Meier DeKam Editor-in-Chief

mommag.com 5

pets are family

When to spay or neuter Refined recommendations change the timeline Puppies and kittens are adorable! But spend a day in a shelter and you’ll likely be moved to tears by the number of unowned or abandoned pets in search of a forever home. The American Veterinary Medical Association has long supported the spaying and neutering of companion animals not intended for breeding, to reduce overpopulation and behaviors that may lead to relinquishment of pets to shelters.

While these goals have not changed, the recommended timing of the procedure has become more complicated. Recent research has shown that early removal of sex hormones may influence the incidence of a variety of disease processes and cancers in certain individuals. This has 6 mommag.com

created a challenging environment for veterinarians and pet parents alike, who all want to make the best decision for their patients and pets.

and some cancers associated with early sterilization, against the risk of mammary neoplasia, unwanted litters, and possible other cancers if sterilized later.

For feline patients, we continue to recommend spaying or neutering prior to sexual maturity, which is by 5 to 6 months of age. For canine patients, there is no single timing recommendation that is appropriate for all dogs, and we encourage you to start this conversation with your veterinarian at your first puppy exam. For female and male dogs who are expected to be smaller than 45 pounds when full grown, surgery is recommended at 5 to 6 months of age. The goal is to spay female dogs prior to the first estrus to decrease the risk of mammary neoplasia.

Spaying and neutering remains an important tool against pet overpopulation, and we, as a profession, continue to support efforts to reduce the number of homeless pets. But as we continue to learn more about the complexities of the canine body and the influences of sex hormones on lifelong health, we encourage you to have early conversations with your veterinarian to make informed decisions on the timing of your pet’s spay or neuter.

Recommendations aren’t so clear for larger breed dogs. As a result of the possible orthopedic concerns, certain cancers in some breeds, males expected to be larger than 45 pounds should be sterilized when growth is complete, usually between 12 to 15 months. In female dogs expected to be larger than 45 pounds, veterinarians must weigh postponing the spay to potentially reduce risks of orthopedic disease, incontinence,

Open 24/7

Brought to you by: Emily Kalenius, DVM Wilvet Salem: 120 Ramsgate Square S wilvetsalem.com | (503) 741-8858

[

Momism #112 That sounds like a big feeling.

]

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Your baby’s birth, your way.

You’ve spent a lot of time thinking about how you want this day to be. We have too.

Get seen by moms!

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Our experienced labor and delivery team will be there every step of the way, whether everything goes as planned — or you and your baby need extra support.

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Come see how Salem Hospital fits into your birth plan.

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mommag.com 7

Allergies are no sneezing matter

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of the world is no sneezing matter for thousands of allergy sufferers in Oregon’s Willamette Valley.

The wonders of nature that make it verdant and green also send some people scrambling to treat itchy eyes, runny noses and other symptoms.

Although most people think of allergy season as the springtime when things are in bloom, our various microclimates ensure that in Oregon, every season is allergy season. Fortunately, over-the-counter remedies can keep many symptoms at bay, and medical professionals can offer additional assistance when they are not enough.

Allergies are caused when your body produces an immune reaction to allergens you encounter. These can be anything from pollen and other flora, to mold and pet dander. Many times, people can make an educated guess as to the cause of their allergy symptoms, simply because their symptoms present soon after exposure to something such as a cat, dog or a specific kind of flower. However, additional testing by a medical provider with specialized allergy training may be required to identify other triggers because sometimes people are allergic to more than one thing.

Mild allergy symptoms to environmental factors can be unpleasant but are often successfully treated with over-the-counter medications. These symptoms are often transient or seasonal: • • • • •

Rash or hive Itchiness Watery/red eyes Hay fever (sneezing, congestion) Runny nose

However, stronger allergic reactions to the environment, such as those listed below, may require medications and treatments prescribed by a medical provider. In rare cases, such as extreme food, insect or drug allergies, the symptoms may be life-threatening.

• Severe itching of eyes or face • Varying degrees of swelling of the mouth, throat, and tongue • Difficulty breathing and swallowing • Abdominal pain • Cramps • Vomiting • Diarrhea • Mental confusion or dizziness If you think you or your child may have an allergy to food, insects or medications, and if your environmental allergies are interfering with quality of life, seek medical advice. You should speak with your primary care provider for next steps, which may include patch testing on the skin.

“

Although most people think of allergy season as the springtime when things are in bloom, our various microclimates ensure that in Oregon, every season is allergy season.

“

Living in the grass seed capital

Brought to you by: santiamhospital.org

mommag.com 9

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Monica Girod This mom of three has advice we can all use: Don’t worry until you have to, otherwise you will have worried twice for nothing.

Photos by: Joni Loraine

Profession: Escrow assistant, First American Title Community: Salem/Keizer Partner: Mark Girod, union journeyman sheet metal worker Children: Patrick, age 19; Liam, age 11; and Ezra, age 8

mommag.com mommag.com 11 11

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'

MOM s Favorite...

Tell us about your favorite… …words to live by: Do not pray for an easy life, pray for the strength to endure a difficult one. …place to find some peace & quiet: I love walking at Willamette Mission Park. …binge-worthy TV or podcast: True crime anything …inspirational quote: It’s up to us to find the joy in our journey.

QA

Family comes first.

All families are unique. Tell us about yours.

My husband and I have been together for 16 years this September and married for 13 years in May. I had Patrick from a previous marriage when I was younger (I was 20 when Patrick was born). Patrick was four years old when Mark came into the picture, and since then Mark has been a great role model for Patrick. We currently own the home my husband grew up in that his grandfather built back in the 1950s. We are honored to be able to keep it in the family and raise our family here just as Mark was raised. We also have 2 dogs: both are AKC Golden Retrievers. Rose is four years old and Silvie is one — she is Rose’s baby, literally.

They are beautiful.

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

We love getting snacks and watching movies together in our living room for Friday night movies.

When did you know you wanted to be a mom?

I have always had a caregiver personality, babysitting since I was young and caring for

younger siblings. I was a young mom — pregnant at 19 and gave birth when I was 20.

I’ve had a lot of trauma in my life but with strong women building me up, I’m thriving and feel blessed everyday. It’s important for me to be able to pass my strength and compassion on to my children, friends and others in my everyday life and interactions.

Has the pandemic changed the way you parent, beyond just the practical and logistical parts?

I think it has. I feel like it has allowed people to evaluate what’s really important in life and figure out a good work/home life balance. I stressed out big time with the kids when they started distance learning for that year, fearing they would fall behind or experience stress on a different level. I’m seeing that being positive, patient, flexible and a continued advocate for and to my children, that they are doing great. And that we live in a world we cannot control.

I remind myself that things will all work themselves out.

Tell us about one of your proudest mom moments. Watching my firstborn (in many ways I feel like we grew up together) graduate from McNary in 2020 and walk across that stage.

mommag.com 13

usually have unfolded laundry in a basket or three, the socks don’t get folded and I’m pretty much okay with that. Like if that’s the worst of my issues, then we are doing good.

Choose your battles!

Tell us about your work or volunteerism outside of the home. I started working in the title/ escrow industry two years ago and absolutely love it. I love working for First American Title — they are empowering, energetic, wonderful and supportive. I see my future growing within the company.

I’m proud to work with Wholehearted Home in Haiti, a wonderful organization that aims to raise orphans to become strong, educated leaders for their own country. I’ve been on several mission trips there, working with the kids, on their land, and I also was blessed to actually deliver a few babies! Our family proudly sponsors a little girl there named Esther. We sponsor her education and are so proud of her and how incredible she is doing in such a volatile environment.

What have you learned professionally that has helped you as a mom? Go with the flow. Don’t worry until you have to, otherwise you will have worried twice for nothing.

Tell us about a recent achievement you’re proud of, or a personal passion or talent. I love singing. It’s always been a dream of mine to get a group of musicians together and play music for a live audience.

If mom’s not happy, nobody’s happy.

Tell us about your upbringing. How did it shape the mother you are today? My mom was a young mom, but she always showed strength and compassion. It has made me who I am today.

Now tell us about one of your most humbling mom moments. I am constantly being humbled as a mother. I’m not perfect by any means and when I make a mistake with my kid, I apologize if needed and repair the situation with my child. We all make mistakes but I try really hard to use those situations as teaching moments that we can make a mistake, acknowledge the mistake, apologize and move forward.

In what way are your children like you? How are they different? All of my kids are loving, kind and thoughtful. They love video games, which they get from their dad. I’m not into the gaming life, but support their interest.

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Describe your parenting philosophy.

It’s my goal to raise my boys to become compassionate, confident and happy men by leading by example and allowing them to follow their own paths, whatever they may be.

No one works harder than mom.

We know that being a mom is a full-time job.

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

Mark and I are a great team. In all things in life I try to keep a good attitude and do the best I can with what I have at the time.

What falls through the cracks? Well, I

What is special about where you grew up?

I grew up in the small town of Sublimity, Oregon when it only had one stop sign. I love the memories I made being able to safely be-bop around town with my friends.

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

Compassion for others is my main focus.

To lead my life with love. I truly just want to love everyone and give everyone the love they deserve…or even don’t deserve.

When was the last time you did something for the first time? Last year Mark and I celebrated my 40th birthday in Mexico.

It was the first time we had ever been.

MOMs Love Local We love locally owned businesses, restaurants, places and organizations.

Share your favorite… …spot to get a good workout: Willamette Mission State Park is my go-to for walking by myself, with my dogs or taking family bike rides. …place to treat yourself to a mani/pedi, massage or other personal service: Studio M Beauty Co. in South Salem.

My sister-in-law owns it, and it’s a wonderful place to get pampered. …take-out, food truck or quick bite: Nancy Jo’s in Keizer for a burger, Yumm Bowl for any other time. …any other local places you love: Silver Creek Falls

What is something you will NEVER do again? My goal is to never let what others think about me control my choices.

Which good habit do you wish you started earlier? I heard a quote once, “Don’t put it down, put it away.” I wish I would have started doing that a long time ago.

When did you realize you were no longer a child? When I found out I was pregnant at 19, I was struggling with direction at the time and decided I would sign up for Job Corps. My leave date was scheduled for September 11, 2001. I found out I was pregnant and learned you can’t be pregnant in Job Corps, so I had to withdraw. I then had no plan, no direction, no job, no home…I lived in Patrick’s dad’s mom’s house. Life just got really real. mommag.com 15

What is one thing you never had that you want for your kids? Having both parents in the home and happy. I am proud that I can give my children that today.

What are three words your best friend would use to describe you? Funny, kind, loving What are three words your kids would use to describe you? Funny, bossy, good cook If you could instantly have one new skill (i.e. foreign language, musical talent, eyes in the back of your head, etc.), what would it be?

I wish I could wake up from the Matrix fluent in Spanish.

If you could turn any activity into an Olympic sport, in which event would you win a gold medal? Starting a project and never finishing it.

Name one thing that is part of your daily routine that you just can’t live without. Having a little quiet time to myself in the morning before I wake the kids for school.

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It’s Saturday afternoon and you suddenly find yourself at home alone for a few hours (we know, it never happens). What do you do?

Sing karaoke or watch something on TV that’s what I want to watch.

What’s your guilty pleasure? (dark chocolate hidden in the pantry, TJ Maxx, daily latte habit?)

Bedtime snacks. So bad!

What is something you think everyone should do at least once in their lives? Travel out of the country.

Listen to mom.

Is motherhood what you expected? What surprised you the most? Motherhood is hard and a selfless job. It is definitely harder than I thought, but I don’t know that anyone really knows until they are in the thick of it.

You have to experience it yourself. It’s amazing how we can function on as little sleep as we do.

Who and what has influenced the mother you are today? My spiritual growth over the last couple of years has allowed me to see the world through different lenses. Helping me see that my kids are all going to end up living their lives, trying to figure it all out, just as I did. Their lives are going to be different than mine, and that’s totally okay with me. I just want them to live happily.

What advice would you give your younger mom self? What do you wish you knew then that you know now? Don’t stress so much. You can relax, even if the house is messy. And also, those dishes will be there waiting for you.

Focus more on spending time with your kids because they grow up too fast and then they are gone and it’s never the same. That turned dark fast, LOL. What message would you like to share with other moms? Remember to tell it like it is. You are the best mom for your kids, and they see you in a glowing light of love, so don’t be too hard on yourself. There is always tomorrow.

[

Momism #25 I love being your mom.

]

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magazines • inserts • newspapers • postcards • catalogs • maps • calendars mommag.com 17

FAMILY PHOTO SHOOTS HOW TO GET YOUR CREW LOOKING THEIR BEST

We’ve come a long way since the cheesy goodness of portrait studios, with their roll-down backdrops and hokey poses. Most families today go for photos that are a lot less staged and in natural, outdoor light.

We asked our fabulous MOM Magazine photographers for some of their best tips and advice for getting your family ready for a photo session with great results.

Photographer Joni Loraine

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Timing For outdoor photoshoots in the Willamette Valley, good weather is defined as not raining.

Don’t worry about the cloud cover — most photographers prefer it over sunshine as it makes for less glare. Try for a time of day that’s not too cold or too hot.

That said, there is one time of day that is off limits. “Nap times are sacred,” says Hall, and Fremouw and Loraine completely agree.

All three photographers are moms themselves, so they know. The best time of day is when your children are typically well rested, well-fed and not overstimulated.

Same goes for the adults. If you can make it work, try for the golden hour, which is two hours before sunset or two hours after sunrise.

Location Natural light makes just about everyone look better, so it’s always a good choice… except when it’s pouring down rain or you have an infant you don’t want out in chilly weather. If you need indoor photos, ask your photographer for suggestions. Local studios rent for nominal fees and are set up to capture you in your best light.

As for outdoor spaces, ask your photographer for advice, as she knows the good spots around town. Nearby parks, open fields, waterfronts and even downtown brick buildings can make for stunning backdrops.

The age-old question: What to wear?

Coordinate, but don’t match. “Matching outfits can look a little dated — coordinated outfits look harmonious and pretty,” says Loraine.

Comfort is key. Hall says, “Everyone should be comfortable and happy enough with what they’re wearing in order to look happy and enjoy picture day.”

Fremouw notes that scratchy clothes make children uncomfortable which is reflected in the photos. Pro tip: cut those itchy clothing tags out.

Colors, patterns & textures “Think of your family as one outfit,” advises Fremouw.

Photographer: Livia Fremouw

Start by choosing a color palette of two colors. You’ll want a neutral base and a soft accent color, like navy and tan. If you’re having trouble deciding, Hall recommends considering what colors will look good in the room where you’ll display photos.

Choose colors that are appropriate for the season, says Loraine. Think pastels for spring and summer, and jewel tones for fall and winter.

“Layers, such as vests and sweaters, and textures like knit, cords or denim lend an interesting texture and modern look,” says Fremouw.

Lay out everyone’s outfits together to see how they blend and contrast. A little bit of pattern is a good thing, but too much makes your eyes buzz.

Avoid: • Pattern overload: one or two family members wearing a pattern is okay, but too many can look busy • Clothing with characters and large logos • Watches • Fluorescent colors, as they can create an unflattering cast on skin

mommag.com 19

Photographer Emily Hall

Hall says that while you’re building the outfits, start with the toughest family member and general level of dressiness in mind. Getting your children involved in the choices will help them feel included and hopefully more amenable to participating on the day of the session.

visible, they’re likely also small enough that it doesn’t matter too much, so don’t lose a ton of sleep over footwear,” says Hall.

That said, she also cautions, “Moms: don’t put yourself last! You’re planning this shindig, make sure you look good. Do not dress yourself at the last minute.”

A note about babies

Accessories, shoes & props Most photographers agree that while jewelry should be minimal, one statement piece can bring in a fun pop.

If you’re into it, try a hat. “They help to frame the face, bring attention to the eyes and complement the clothing,” says Fremouw.

She also encourages clients to include their child’s favorite toy, blanket, doll or other significant objects in the portraits.

What you can stop worrying about: your shoes. “In pictures where your shoes are

20 mommag.com

Fremouw concurs: “If the weather and location allow for it, kicking off your shoes creates nice, relaxed portraits.”

When photographing babies, factor in the need for nursing and naps. Fremouw notes a successful newborn session might last as long as three hours. She tells her clients to have a variety of cute diaper covers and blankets ready.

Treat yourselves Reward yourself and the family when you finish. “If you plan something fun for after the session, the kids will look forward to the outing all day,” says Loraine.

After pulling off a family photo sesh, you won’t feel like cooking anyway, so hit the local pizzeria.

What to pack It’s better to be a bit over, than under, prepared.

Pack all the things: • snacks • water • diapers • sunscreen • changes of clothing

[

Momism #15 Look both ways.

]

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SUSTAINABLE HOME DECOR EVERY DAY IS EARTH DAY, ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU GET CHOOSY ABOUT WHAT YOU BRING INTO YOUR HOME.

BEDDING, LINENS & THROWS Look for natural fabrics, like 100 percent cotton, linen, wool or hemp. What to avoid: polyester and other synthetic fabrics, which shed tiny microplastics that end up in oceans and waterways.

FURNISHINGS Reclaimed wood is beautiful and certainly on trend. For upholstered pieces, look for kiln-dried wood framing with certification from a trusted entity, like the Forest Stewardship Council.

Something old helps break up the matchymatchy newness in a space: consider a previously-loved vintage piece. If you find pre-owned dressers and desks made of real wood, look for dovetail joinery and snag that high-quality piece.

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PLANTS ARE DECOR They’re more than pretty: they are aircleaning machines for improving your indoor air quality. Ferns, spider plants, succulents…indoor plants repay you for their care and tending, in that they dramatically lower the amounts of formaldehyde, benzyne and other pollutants.

DRESS THE WALLS Buy art locally. It’s much more special when it’s not mass produced, and the artist might be your neighbor. Wicker baskets on walls: we’re seeing this trend just about everywhere. Same for throwback 70’s macrame wall hangings — look for ones made without polyester fibers.

RUGS A 100-percent wool rug will not let you down. Other materials that are gentler on the environment: jute, hemp, cotton and sisal.

PAINT If you’re of a certain age, you remember the smell of paint so strong, it induced lightheadedness — not good for anyone. Look for Zero VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint that’s a better bet for living things.

BEWARE OF GREENWASHING The lawlessness of what products can proclaim to be is downright astonishing. Some to watch out for: Solid or real wood: If you’re shopping specifically for this material, note that some advertisers consider engineered wood as solid and real.

Vegan leather: If it’s made from polyurethane, it’s plastic.

Instead, look for plant-based versions, or brands using recycled materials to make leather-like products.

All-natural, eco-friendly: These vague descriptions are everywhere and no one is regulating them. Dig deeper to learn the specifics of a manufacturer’s practices.

mommag.com 23

on the road

Financing a vehicle purchase How best to make a big purchase when the whole world seems more expensive.

Aside from a home, a car is one of the biggest financial decisions you will likely make. Knowing the basics of how best to make the purchase can decrease the confusion — and have you driving off in your vehicle of choice.

We turned to Rashelle Robinson, director of finance & insurance at Capitol Auto Group, for advice.

What is the most common way people pay for car purchases nowadays?

Between 73 – 83% of transactions are financed, and leasing typically runs around 20% of our non-cash deals.

Brought to you by:

Some say leasing a car is a bad deal, while other people swear by it. What gives?

The old style of leasing was an “open-end lease,” which was popular back in the 80s.

It meant the value of the vehicle could change, and at the end of the lease you could owe a lot more money. Today, leases are “closed-end leases,” which means the end value of the vehicle is guaranteed as long as the mileage is within the limits of the lease.

If someone trades in their vehicle every three to four years, they should lease. Most financial advisors will also tell you to lease property that depreciates. People who don’t like leasing usually say they want to “own” the vehicle, but whether you finance or lease, you don’t fully own the car until you pay it off.

Can I put it on a credit card so I can earn cashback and other rewards?

It differs from dealer to dealer, but at Capitol we have limits on credit card transactions, and we review them on a case-by-case basis. There is also a 2% service fee on any credit card transaction.

If I have cash saved up, is it better to use my savings or to finance the purchase?

Depending on what type of account your money is in, it’s sometimes better to finance or lease because you’re earning more interest than what you’re paying in interest on the loan. Again that completely depends on the type of account those funds are in, and if they are generating more interest than the rate on the lease or loan.

Do I get a loan with my bank or do I go through the dealership?

At the dealership we have access to over 50 banks and credit unions. We also have a massive portfolio that allows us to secure financing for a wide range of consumers.

We can acquire the same or sometimes better terms that the banks offer directly, so the customer can do everything in one stop.

MEET RASHELLE ROBINSON Rashelle Robinson is the the director of finance & insurance for Capitol Auto Group. She has been married for 20 years, with three grown children and a granddaughter. Her son also works part time at Capitol Auto. She and her family enjoy traveling, and their favorite vacation spots are Hawaii and Whistler, British Columbia.

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Fish for dinner

mommag.com 25

Simple S almon Fresh Pacific wild-caught salmon with its signature deep redorange hue is one of the perks of living in the PNW. Note that one adult serving is about 3 to 4 ounces.

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

1

large fillet of salmon, deboned

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

1

tablespoon olive oil

2

tablespoons butter, cut into small squares

Spray a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray. Pat dry the salmon fillet and lay skin-side down in the baking dish.

Lemon pepper to taste Garlic salt to taste Lemon wedges and fresh chopped parsley (optional)

Kid tip: Take out those pesky pin bones before you prep your fillet to make for a more enjoyable (and less worrisome) mealtime.

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Coat the fish evenly with olive oil.

Sprinkle garlic salt and lemon pepper, then top with small squares of butter.

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the internal temperature of the thickest part reaches 145 degrees.

Serve with chopped parsley and lemon wedges if you’re feeling fancy.

Parmesan & panko- crusted cod A fillet of Pacific-caught cod is a good choice for nutrition. Generally, fish is ridiculously good for you, as it contains omega fatty acids, vitamins D and B12, and it’s a source of lean protein.

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

1

large fillet of white fish (enough for four servings)

¾

cup panko crumbs

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

Spray a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.

¾

cup parmesan cheese (the shaker style works just fine)

3

tablespoons unsalted butter, preferably at room temperature

3

tablespoons mayonnaise

1

teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 ½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice Salt and pepper to taste Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Tweezers for the kitchen You have a set in your bathroom for your brows, but you need kitchen ones, too. You want the right tool for the job, so look for deboning tweezers.

In a medium bowl, combine the panko and parmesan cheese. Add the butter (if you forgot to take it out ahead of time, give it a microwave zap to warm it up) and mayonnaise and mash together. Add the Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice. Set aside.

Pat the fish as dry as possible so it doesn’t get mushy. Season with salt and pepper, then transfer to the baking dish.

Spread the panko-parmesan mixture over the top of the fillet, about ¼-½" of thickness.

Press down lightly on it with a fork to help it adhere.

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the thickest part of the fillet is 145 degrees.

Kid tip: Got a finicky eater who won’t like the topping?

Leave it off their portion of the fillet to hear less complaints at the dinner table.

Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

mommag.com 27

Fast fish tacos Using frozen, beer-battered fillets for efficiency is a game changer, and Alaskan wild-caught cod is a good bet. Make the lime crema and tangy slaw ahead of time, so you’re well prepared for the rush-hour of dinner.

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

4

baked fish fillets, cooked as directed

10

street corn tortillas

Cook the fish fillets as directed. After they cool slightly, give them a rough chop.

1/2 cup chopped cilantro for sprinkling over everything 1/2 lime, cut into wedges for serving Tangy cabbage slaw and lime crema (see below)

Kid tip: Finicky littles can eat just the fish, while more advanced taste buds will enjoy the whole ensemble of fish tacos topped with tangy cabbage slaw and lime crema.

Lime crema

Finish with a sprinkle of cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

Tangy cabbage

S

law

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTION

2

cups of red cabbage, thinly sliced

In a large bowl, combine the cabbage and carrots.

2

carrots, peeled and shredded

¼

cup apple cider vinegar

In a small bowl, whisk the vinegar, oil, mustard and honey until well combined.

¼

cup olive oil

1

tablespoon Dijon mustard tablespoons of honey

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

2

In a small bowl, whisk together all ingredients.

This can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge.

¼

cup sour cream

Salt and pepper to taste

2

tablespoons mayonnaise

1

tablespoon of lime zest

2

tablespoons fresh lime juice

¼

teaspoon kosher salt

28 mommag.com

Warm the corn tortillas.

Add to each tortilla some of the fish, then the tangy cabbage slaw, then drizzle the lime crema over top.

Pour the mixture over the cabbage and carrots, and combine thoroughly.

Add salt and pepper to your liking. Some people say it even tastes better after it has a chance to marinate in the fridge for a half a day.

When ready, these add a delicious crunch to the fish tacos (and vegetable serving, too). Bonus: it can also be served as a side dish.

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mommag.com 29

Online teeth straightening kits The commercials make them look enticing, but you’re better off with a local orthodontist.

When it comes to oral health care, safety and quality are of high importance. In a real-life orthodontic visit, we closely examine and document the position and health of your teeth which is crucial in providing the highest level of care. When you order teeth aligners online, there is no in-person exam. This leaves you open to a host of problems, from bite issues to gum disease. Plus, you may not get the desired straightening result you wanted in the first place.

As orthodontists, we are constantly looking out for our patient’s comfort.

Online aligner companies use gooey, old-fashioned impression kits that are a thing of the past in our office, where we use digital scanning to get ultra precise measurements.

Castilla Orthodontics 503-399-0721 info@castillaortho.com 434 Lancaster Drive NE, Salem

30 mommag.com

Let’s not forget that orthodontic treatment is moving your teeth, which calls for X-rays. We’re also seeing you for regular adjustments, about every 6 to 8 weeks, to ensure your teeth are moving according to your unique treatment plan. And if our patients have a pokey wire, loose bracket or other discomfort, we see them as soon as possible to address the issue.

As for cost, it’s probably not saving you much in the long run. Do your teeth a favor and see us for a free consultation before shopping online.

facebook.com/CastillaOrthodontics/ @castilla.ortho castilla.ortho

Ana Castilla, DDS, MS is a board-certified, Oregon-based orthodontist. She is passionate about helping patients attain their perfect smile, so they can live their lives to the fullest!

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