Salem MOM | August/September 2020

real local moms

since 2005

Salem | August / September 2020

COVER MOM

ORGANIZING

BURSTING WITH TOO MANY

LAUREN CARLSON

KIDS’ CLOTHES

SMARTPHONE PHOTOS

Cover for Me. Cover for You.

MASK

2 mommag.com

It’s what‘s

Organizing kids’ clothes

20

Meet the MOM experts..... 4

inside that counts

Smartphone photos

22

They know what they're

Cover MOM: Lauren Carlson................10

talking about

This mom gets real

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

Organizing kids’ clothes......................20

A message from MOM

On the road.............................6 Dogs in cars

Whether school is in session or not, kids keep growing

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

Cooking hacks 28 Is your smartphone bursting with too many photos?..................22 Tips for managing the digital photo hoarding habit

Our favorite helpful cooking hacks..................28 For when you're short on time or patience — or both

Helping your kids and yourself manage stress

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.

Cover MOM

10

Photos by Joni Loraine Photography

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]

Drive.

On the road with Kristina Minahan, page 6

Health.

Healthy MOM with Santiam Hospital, page 8

Smile.

Something to Smile About with Dr. Na Xu, page 18

“Start where you are, use what you have, do what you can.

“

– Arthur Ashe

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Say Cheese.

Say cheese with Dr. Ana Castilla, page 26

Because I said so!

EDITOR'S NOTE

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. © 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.

It’s a lot of a lot.

T

he world around us seems to be on fire lately, with the pandemic and racial inequality in the headlines. It’s enough anxiety for adults, much less kids.

I’d love to tell you that my children circle around me as we have deep conversations about what it means to wear a mask and to be the best allies we can, but let’s be real: conversations with my teen and tween boys has been in snippets and bursts, followed by them saying “I know, mom,” and quickly tuning me out to go back to video games or outside.

In fact, if I want to clear a room of my kids all I have to say is, “Let’s talk about our feelings,” and they scatter like cockroaches in the light.

Small moments add up.

A quote by the late tennis pro Arthur Ashe got me thinking. He said, “Start where you are.

Use what you have. Do what you can.”

When my boys were little, we’d add protein powder to their pancakes. It’s not unlike finding those teachable moments to sneak in the big topics. I hear their chatter amongst friends, and whenever the moment comes up to sneak in, I just go ahead and do it. My hope is that it fortifies their minds, helping them to grow their social and emotional intelligence.

It’s starting where we are.

School will be...hybrid? Whatever way it ends up, we can look to the moment and use what we have. For instance, I may not know what schedule we’ll have this fall, but I do know we have a bunch of colored pencils that can be sharpened and binders from last year that need cleaning out. It’s doing what we can — and our kids will learn from it.

Audrey Meier DeKam Editor-in-Chief

mommag.com 5

on the road

Dogs in cars W

E LOVE DOGS: your dogs, our dogs, dogs on the internet. We love them so much, we even have a dog park on our campus, complete with treats and waste bags, and a lovely walking trail around the lake for you and your pooch.

So when it comes to dogs in cars, we know some things. If you’re shopping for a vehicle, consider one that’s suitable for your furry best friend.

Big dogs, little dogs, and every dog in between Small and medium dogs do great in vehicles like a Subaru Impreza or Chevrolet Trax. Big dogs will enjoy the cargo space of a roomy Toyota Forerunner. We can order you the right size barrier to keep them from jumping the seats into the passenger space — and to keep them safe in the event of needing to brake suddenly.

When car shopping, consider doors that open all the way, rather than three-quarters, making it easier for your pup to jump. Older pets will appreciate a lower entry from the ground, which make mini-vans a perfect fit.

Brought to you by:

A few other favorites of dog-owners: Seats that fold flat to accommodate a large kennel.

The cargo hold is a perfect place to stash a spare leash, water bowl and towel.

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Keeping it clean When you buy seat covers made by the manufacturer, you get a snug, secure fit as opposed to the after-market, one-size-fits-all floppy ones. Many pet parents like neoprene covers for their durability, while others prefer leather for the ease of vacuuming.

Pacific Northwesterners know rain, and a rear cargo tray is a must-have for muddy pups. Spring for the heavy-duty kind that can be removed and hosed down.

Doggo safety Securing your pooch in the vehicle is best for him and you. That means investing in a good quality kennel or harness system for the car.

You know to never leave dogs in a hot car.

But what you might not realize is how fast a car gets too hot, even on a cooler, shady day.

It’s just not worth it to risk heat stroke. When you’re using your air-conditioner, a vehicle with rear climate control is great for our furry friends. Some newer models of the Suburu Ascent come standard with built-in roll-up window shades that can help keep everyone more comfortable.

Friendly dogs are welcome in the shop any time. Just be prepared for a lot of attention.

MEET KRISTINA MINAHAN Kristina Minahan enjoys working in sales at Capitol Toyota and is the proud mother of three: twins Khloe and Konner, age 10, and Karsyn, age 11. As a family they love to go on long bike rides, enjoy the great outdoors and go to Disneyland any chance they can. Contact Kristina at Capitol Toyota for your next Toyota purchase at kminahan@capitolauto.com or 503.399.1011.

[ Momism #83: I’m

going to give you until the count of three....

What can MOM do for you?

]

YOUR DREAM IS OUT THERE. MAKE IT A REALITY. Top-ranked degrees

ONLINE Christy Wedding’s pathway to earning a business administration degree 100% online was made easier thanks to Oregon State’s Degree Partnership Program with statewide community colleges.

Moms make 82% of household purchasing decisions. Reach your customers with MOM Magazine.

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mommag.com 7

HELPING YOUR KIDS AND YOURSELF MANAGE STRESS

Though kids are highly adaptable, they’re still subject to unhealthy levels of stress. Under normal circumstances, their stress can usually be more easily managed than that of an adult. However, the unusual circumstances of the last few months have brought a new set of challenges for youngsters. Suddenly separated from their peers, teachers and, in many cases, extended family, our children are living a life very different from the way we entered 2020.

C

hildren, susceptible to the anxiety of those around them, on the news and among their friends’ families, are often indirectly impacted by what’s happening to others. As their routines change for school and socializing, there are a few things you can do to keep kids less anxious about uncontrollable events.

First, you can’t manage your child’s stress if yours is out of control. Take time for self care so you have the capacity to care for others: That means following the same guidelines you give your family for stress-mitigation. Practice what you preach.

LIMIT YOUR CONSUMPTION OF NEWS

KEEP YOUR ROUTINES

TALK IT OUT

For Adults: If you’re working from home, you’ll have to make a real effort to separate your home-time and work-time. Make a place for your “work day” and then leave at “quitting time.”

For Adults: Check in with friends and family by phone or Facetime, and find out how people are really doing. If you’re struggling with anxiety about current events or having a difficult time being a full-time parent, teacher and employee (who isn’t?!) talk to your friends who are in similar situations. It’s ok to ask for help.

For Kids: Set reasonable times to go to bed and also to wake up, then stick with them.

Make sure kids are eating at regular meal times, not grazing through the day. If they’re learning online, set up a “school space” for them as well and set regular hours devoted to coursework.

STAY CONNECTED

For Adults: There’s nothing that the media loves more than a crisis, and a quick scroll through online or evening news will quickly illustrate this point. Of course you want to stay informed, but set a time limit and pick one or two reliable sources to check in with.

For Adults: Depending on social restrictions in your area and your own comfort level with being in public, make some time for getting out of the house to safely socialize. Alternatively, you can schedule virtual celebrations and happy hours with your friends online.

For Kids: Make sure your kids are also limiting their time dwelling over the headlines, and make sure their use is age-appropriate. Let them know you’re available to talk about what they’re reading and what they have questions about. If you don’t know the answer, let them know. It’s good for kids to realize that uncertainty doesn’t have to be scary.

For Kids: It may have taken a global pandemic for younger generations to realize the importance of face-to-face connection! Kids can stay healthy by trading sleepovers for outdoor activities like hiking and riding bikes. Everyone can maintain the requisite social distance and get some Vitamin D while they’re at it.

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For Kids: Check in with your kids about how they’re feeling. As they get older, kids might require a little prodding to open up about what’s bothering them, but keep asking. Let them know it’s ok to not be OK. In the best of times, this is a challenging world to live in, and children are still growing into the skills required to stay mentally and physically healthy. Now, more than ever, parents and caregivers must make a heroic effort to make sure children are managing their physical, mental and emotional well-being.

Brought to you by:

www.santiamhospital.org

mommag.com 9

Family Husband: Kasey Carlson, environmental chemist Children: Asher, age 8, Noah, age 6, and Solomon, age 2 Profession: Family nurse practitioner Community: Salem

LAUREN CARLSON

With a career, husband, three boys, a goldendoodle and one hairless cat, for Lauren Carlson sometimes the only place to find some quiet time is the bathroom.

Photo credit: Joni Loraine Photography

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mommag.com 11

QA &

Family comes first.

All families are unique. Tell us about yours. My husband never ceases to amaze me. He’s an ultramarathoner and actually completed a 100-mile trail run last year. I’m so grateful that my kids get to witness his incredible work ethic and commitment to things he loves. He has an extraordinary ability to coach our kids through difficult situations.

We have three very active boys that never seem to be lacking in energy. Move over, Energizer bunny! Our oldest, Asher, is very competitive, confident and determined, and he has a smile that will melt you. Our second-born, Noah, has a heart of gold, is naturally very nurturing, creative, has an infectious excitement about life, and he gives the best hugs. Solomon, our youngest and last child, is a force! He’s silly, affectionate, obstinate and extraordinarily persistent. We have two pets, Lola, our goldendoodle, and Wrinkles, our hairless kitty. They get along quite well, although I’d say the cat definitely bosses Lola around.

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Every family has their own traditions, rituals or inside jokes. What’s one of yours? On my paternal side of the family, a tradition that has been passed down is making black eyed peas, collard greens and hot water cornbread for New Year’s day. On my maternal side of the family, seafood gumbo is a New Year’s tradition. Either way we typically have some delicious food to start the new year!

When did you know you wanted to be a mom?

There was no great aha moment for me. I actually didn’t want children or marriage, then after I renewed my faith, it was like a switch was turned on. Suddenly, around age 22, I wanted both of those things.

Do you think that parenting is easier or more challenging than when you were growing up? I won’t say more challenging, but the challenges are different. Not only do we have to worry about their general health and well being, but we also have to think about things like internet safety, the impact of social media and excessive screen time, mass shootings. In my social circle, many people live farther away from their families and in turn, child-rearing can be more challenging not having that proximity of the village to help raise your child.

Tell us about one of your proudest mom moments? Honestly, I can’t think of anything big, but generally speaking I feel proud of my children when they show genuine love, concern and respect above what is expected of them.

You know you’re a mom when you hear yourself say…”______________ .” Boys! Don’t pee in the toilet at the same time!

Your biggest wish for your kids is… I want them to love Jesus first and foremost, love others, and feel deeply loved, supported and accepted by their parents.

No one works harder than mom.

Too Tired for the Paparazzi Lauren’s youngest boy, Solomon, was having a “stereotypical cranky, nap-fighting moment” so he didn’t participate in family photos. MOMs know how that goes!

We know that being a mom is a full-time job. Tell us about your work or volunteerism outside of the home. I’ve worked full time as a family nurse practitioner at the Aumsville Medical Clinic for the last five years and really enjoy what I do. I was active in PTA and will serve as the secretary for the upcoming academic year. I look forward to more volunteerism opportunities, specifically those focused on social justice in the future.

?

Quick-FIRE

questions

for MOM Tea or Coffee?

I really love both!

Morning or Night?

I’m definitely a morning person.

Summer or Winter?

Summer but l love playing in the snow.

Fly or Drive?

Fly, unless the drive is within 6 hours.

Gold or Silver?

Gold Dog or Cat? Dog, but I also have a cat (Sorry kitty).

Beer or Wine?

Wine Bath or Shower?

A nice long shower Math or English?

English Hot or Cold?

Hot Sweet or Savory?

Savory Hugs or Kisses?

Hugs Ice cream or Chocolate?

Ice cream Early or Late?

Early

mommag.com 13

How do you balance (or not) motherhood, activities, work, volunteering, household responsibilities, and life in general? Typically, what falls through the cracks? I don’t think you can do it all and do it all well. I’ve learned to be protective of my time, say no, and only choose activities outside of my home that either bring me joy or purpose. In this season of life with young children and a full-time job, I’m choosing not to spread myself thin with a lot of volunteerism. My house is cluttered more often than not, and I choose not to spend my energy stressing over that.

If mom’s not happy, nobody’s happy.

Tell us about your community/upbringing growing up. How did it shape the mother you are today? I grew up in a Los Angeles suburb in a great, safe, working class neighborhood.

I lived a short 20-30 minute drive from both 14 mommag.com

sets of grandparents, which I cherish immensely. My parents divorced in my teen years, and my mom had always been a steady, unwavering woman of faith and strength. She inspired me, challenged me to be the best version of myself. She exhibited completely self-sacrificing love towards my brother and I. I admire her and hope that I am that same kind of mother.

What do you think is the most important life skill or value your parents taught you? The importance of hard work and relationships.

When was the last time you did something for the first time? Recently, I went horseback riding for the first time.

When did you realize you were no longer a child?

I remember being in my last year of college and had had just a few dollars in my bank account. I was so stressed because I felt like I didn’t even have money for food. I called my mom to vent and cry and her response was, “I’m sure you’ll figure it out.” I knew then I

was no longer seen as a child who needed to be rescued but an adult who was capable of solving my own problems.

What is one thing you never had that you want for your kids? I don’t want them to stress over finances when it comes to higher education. I took out way too many student loans to finance my college education as I did not have the luxury of a college fund or wealthy parents. I want my children to have freedom from debt.

What is the quality you like most about yourself? I’m always up for an adventure.

“Perfection is not a good goal for you or your children. Have the ability and grace to allow yourself and your children to make mistakes and grow from them.”

?

MOM’s

Favorite… …family game: Wii Sports …words to live by: There

is no growth without discomfort. You cannot become better without making mistakes. Embrace them, learn from them, and move on. Don’t get stuck on the failure.

…place to hide and find some peace & quiet: In my daily mom life, the bathroom is my place of brief refuge. Generally speaking, I feel happiest and most centered in the mountains.

…binge-worthy TV or podcast: Game of Thrones …way to get out of making dinner: Ask my kids to pick dinner (it’s almost always pizza).

…parenting book or philosophy: Loving Your

Kids on Purpose (based on Love and Logic). I really think it’s important to avoid solving all of your kids’ problems. They really need the opportunity to problem solve. It’s good for critical thinking and developing self-confidence.

mommag.com 15

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 would love to somehow know the root cause behind people’s behavior to have more empathy and understand the best way to help someone.

What’s your superpower? I know when my kids are lying.

Name one thing that is part of your daily routine that you just can’t live without. Hugs from my kids.

Tell us something about you that would surprise your kids (or your husband). I won a dance contest once upon a time on spring break in Mexico.

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? Clean and watch Netflix. I hardly ever have time for TV these days, and we all know it’s so much easier to clean when no one else is there.

What keeps you up at night (apart from kids, of course)? Recently, it’s becoming more aware

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of the depth of racist and oppressive systems at play in our society, and how to teach my children to not only navigate it, but play an active role in dismantling that.

What keeps you sane? Prayer, quality family time and spending time outdoors.

What is the best way that you let off steam?

Listening to music and dancing.

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

Eating ice cream slowly after my kids have gone to sleep...shhh...don’t tell them!

Who is your favorite fictional hero?

Nakita from Black Panther Who is your favorite real life hero?

Michelle Obama

Listen to mom.

Is motherhood what you expected? What surprised you the most? Motherhood is way more than I expected. I am surprised at how deep you can love another human but also how challenging it can be at times.

Who and what has influenced the mother you are today? I’ve gained from my mother the strength, resolve, mama-bear-like concern for my children and fun that’s needed to be a mom. My mother-in-law has a calm, commanding and consistent demeanor which I am trying to channel more of.

What advice would you give your younger mom self — what do you wish you knew then that you know now? Relax, take a breath, the goal is not perfection. Let other people help you.

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

Being a mom is the most rewarding and also the most challenging thing you’ll ever do.

Perfection is not a good goal for you or your children. Have the ability and grace to allow yourself and your children to make mistakes and grow from them.

[ Momism #93:

Flush the toilet!

UNITED WAY RESOURCE CABINETS HUMANIZING HOMELESSNESS WORKSHOP RED CART PROJECT NOVEMBER TEA EVENT

]

It is our intent to be nimble and adaptive in our response to the needs of women and children in our community, striving for lasting social change in our Mid-Valley region. Join us.

SAFESLEEP UNITED

We are a philanthropic group of women who take action on important issues affecting women and children in our community. Join us every first Friday of each month at the United Way office for our Brown Bag Monthly Meeting.

EDUCATION

PHILANTHROPY

ACTION

WOMEN UNITED is a subsidiary of United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley UnitedWayMWV.org | (503) 363-1651 | liveunited@unitedwaymwv.org

mommag.com 17

something to smile about

TM

When Mom Needs a Crown

As moms, we deserve sparkly crowns for our hard work every day. But sometimes it’s our teeth that need crowns.

I

F YOU HAVE A TOOTH that is cracked, worn down or weakened, your dentist might recommend a crown or “cap,” as they are sometimes called.

Brought to you by: Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry

2601 25th St., Suite 400, in Salem 503-689-8936 www.myfamilydentistsalem.com

Na Xu, DDS, is a mother of two.

In its most basic form, a dental crown is a shell that fits over the root of the tooth, restoring the shape, size and appearance of what was once there. They can be made from metal, ceramic, porcelain or other materials.

In addition to talking through which type of crown is best for you, you’ll be given a

chance to choose from colors that match your teeth.

Typically, a dental crown requires two visits: one for taking an impression of the tooth, removing the existing enamel and fitting you with a temporary crown. At the second visit, the temporary is removed and the permanent crown is cemented into place.

While they may not be as glamorous as tiaras, dental crowns can be an important part of your sparkling smile.

GIVING BLOOD IS GIVING LIFE. SCHEDULE YOUR DONATION TODAY. Bloodworksnw.org (800) 398-7888 Download the App 18 mommag.com

@BloodworkNW

[ Momism #59:

You’d forget your head if it wasn’t attached to your shoulders.

]

Protect Local Streams and Rivers!

Alis Volat Propriis

She Flies With Her Own Wings www.CleanStreamsSalem.org

Every mom is worthy of the cover of MOM Magazine.

Who would you like to see as a Cover MOM? Fill out the form on mommag.com/about

mommag.com 19

Out with the old before you bring in the new How to start: Mark three bags or boxes as KEEP, TOSS and DONATE. What to save Items in good condition that will fit another child, either one of your own or someone else’s.

A few sentimental items can be stowed away with other keepsakes.

What to jettison: Anything stained, ripped, what you think you’ll get to mending but never will, etc. Note that some donation sites will send unusable items to textile recyclers.

How to store items to grow into: Clear storage bins let you see what you have.

Label with season and sizes, and keep bins up and out of the way, so that items don’t get mixed up with current clothing.

Mom tip: If your kids are close in age and complain about accidental mix-ups of their sibling’s clothing in their items, it’s time for them to learn how to do laundry.

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Organizing kids’ clothes One mom quipped recently, “This year, I’m not sure whether to buy my kids pajamas or school clothes.”

W

hether school is in session or not, kids keep growing — and outgrowing their clothes and shoes. That leaves moms managing the constant turnover.

Professional organizer Megan Warren of Shipshape & Organized Spaces, Inc. in Eugene, Ore., advises using the seasons, rather than the academic calendar, as a guide.

“Make it a priority and set aside an hour at the change of each season to go through your kids’ clothes and remove anything that no longer fits or is overly weathered from use,” says Warren.

“Put those items in a bag and into your car so the next time you drive by a donation center

you can drop them off,” she said, noting that getting into this routine helps the task seem less overwhelming the next time you have to do it.

Warren also recommends getting the kids involved. “I have a bin in my closet where my kids can put any item of clothing or pair of shoes that no longer fit them. This has been a huge help in teaching them to be conscious of getting rid of unused items.”

And as for that donation bag you put in your car…many moms drive around with them for weeks before remembering to drop them off.

But hey, at least your kids’ closets look amazingly organized!

Are you making an impact?

MU COM NIT

RD 2021 WA

MPACT A YI

The MOM Magazine Community Impact Award honors a local, not-for-profit organization serving mothers and children in the community.

The recipient will receive a free 2021 advertising contract, editorial feature and social media promotion.

Nominate a deserving organization for the MOM Magazine Community Impact Award

Nomination period is Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, 2020. To nominate your organization or learn more about the MOM Magazine Community Impact Award visit mommag.com/award.

See terms and conditions at mommag.com

mommag.com 21

IS YOUR SMARTPHONE BURSTING WITH TOO MANY PHOTOS? editorial

IF YOU DELETE IMAGES TO MAKE MORE ROOM SO YOU CAN TAKE MORE PHOTOS, KNOW THAT YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

22 mommag.com

If you thought you would use the time you had under stay-at-home orders to actually do something with those photos but didn’t, again, know that you are not alone. The struggle is real, and it’s time to do something about it.

First, clean it up Okay, so every single photo of your child is ah-dor-able and so hard to delete. But, no one needs forty shots of the same time they went to the petting zoo. Go through and delete all the eyes-closed, unflattering pictures. Then, get rid of pictures that are almost duplicates. It’s tough to press delete on your babies, but if the photos aren’t really all that different, they’re simply hogging up space you need to take more photos.

mommag.com 23

Really delete it When you click to delete a photo, it’s still in your trash. Just like your kitchen garbage can, it’s still in your house until you take it outside and roll it to the curb. It’s also similar to desktop or laptop computers, where putting it in the trash doesn’t make it go away.

Think of deleting photos on your phone as the same two-step process: after you delete a photo, go empty your photo trash or “Recently Deleted” photos to really get rid of them.

IF YOU HAVE OVER 2,241 PHOTOS ON YOUR SMARTPHONE RIGHT NOW, YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

Backup, backup and then backup some more Use a service like iCloud or Google Photos to back up those precious memories. These services and many others out there are fairly straightforward to use. Use multiple services if you want redundancy. You can also buy small USB flash drives that connect to your phone and store photos on those, too.

Print those pics Many retailers offer free apps that make it a cinch to send your photos digitally, then get actual printed photos back. Imagine that: real photos that you could actually put in photo albums...mind blown. Services like Snapfish not only print pictures and send them to you, they also let you turn your photos into fun books, cards, and — a sign of the times — face masks.

Framing photos is convenient with the Keepsake app.

It lets you upload your photo, choose your matte and frame, then have the finished product sent to you directly. Prices start around $29 for a framed 8” x 10,” which makes a great gift.

Even if you have kids, pets and a photo habit, with small steps you can overcome digital photo hoarding. There is hope...and more room to be made for new pictures.

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[ Momism #37:

Say please

]

Wear it for our community Wear it for Yourself

Wear it for Others

expand your reach 541.926.3000 oregonwebpress.com

magazines • inserts • newspapers • postcards • catalogs • maps • calendars

mommag.com 25

Virtual consultations for Invisalign and braces All you need are two spoons, a smartphone and the help of a partner to take some pictures.

Everything is online these days, including orthodontic consultation. If you’ve been thinking about braces or Invisalign for yourself or your child, we can save you an initial trip to the office with a virtual consultation.

It may sound strange at first, but it’s actually really easy. You’ll need two spoons to pull back your cheeks and your phone to take a set of pictures that we have you text to our office, or upload to our website.

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

We ask for eight pictures in total, including a profile photo as well as front smiling and non-smiling pictures. This helps us see how your jaw, chin and other facial structures support your teeth. The rest of the photos will be close-ups of your teeth.

We’ll need some other details, too, so visit castillaortho.com/virtual to watch a helpful video with instructions.

Watch a short, helpful how-to video on our website. castillaortho.com/virtual

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!

r o f g n Cari ies

il m a f g growin

5 2 9 1 e c sin

OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY 26 mommag.com

FAMILY MEDICINE

salemclinic.org

URGENT CARE

503.399.2424

Support your local business

WE

LOCAL

Local businesses are vital to our community. When you engage with local businesses, you help your neighbors and friends, and you support what helps make your town special.

Buy

Every purchase you make keeps more dollars here, where you live.

E at

Take advantage of curbside pickup, delivery and outdoor seating. Your favorite restaurants are working hard to stay open and support their employees, while keeping you safe.

Donate

Local event cancelled? Consider donating the funds back. Buy gift cards for future use.

It all helps.

mommag.com 27

You might be today years old learning this one: the hole in a pot handle is the perfect wooden spoon rest. Stick the end of the spoon in it while your dish boils.

The right accessories can make all the difference

Our Favorite Helpful Cooking Hacks

Clear fridge storage boxes let you see what the food is, rather than having to go digging — or more likely, ignoring items and having them go to waste.

For when you’re short on time or patience — or both.

That’s just grate...

28 mommag.com

Kitchen scissors: if you don’t have some, treat yourself. From cutting open super-sealed packs of chicken, to cutting fresh herbs, this kitchen tool is multi-talented. Get ones that can go on the top rack of the dishwasher after using.

You can grate hardboiled eggs. Wait, what?

This is useful for making deviled eggs, or adding some protein to a salad.

How many times have you thought far enough ahead to take the butter out to bring it to room temperature? Us neither. Grating cold butter works like a charm when baking.

A permanent marker for labeling and dating the tops of lids, plastic bags, foil, etc. Hide yours from the kids so it doesn’t get swiped for their crafts.

Tin foil: Line your slow cooker or sheet pan with this utilitarian kitchen item to make cleaning up a breeze.

Because you are about to have way too much zucchini in your life: grate it up for zucchini bread, pasta or even as an addition to meatloaf.

Kid’s Favorite Pasta About 10 oz. of your family’s favorite pasta, cooked and drained. Wholegrain pasta provides more fiber and nutritional value.

Add 2 - 3 Tablespoons of butter to the warm pasta and stir to coat.

Drizzle olive oil, then shake on some garlic salt and parmesan cheese. Stir and serve hot, or store in the fridge to eat cold later.

If it’s about to go bad, just freeze it.

Prep ahead of time: future you will thank past you

Make a batch of “kid” pasta (see recipe at top right) for leftovers that are great for school lunches.

Don’t forget to pack a fork — in fact, use up some of those utensils saved from takeout orders.

Boil a half-dozen eggs on Sunday for the week ahead. Mark them in pencil as “HB” for hard-boiled and store them in a separate bowl in the fridge. A great grab-and-go source of protein.

Desticker and wash fruit all at once so it’s ready to eat on the fly. This is a great chore for little kids, with supervision.

The jumbo applesauce you bought is on the verge of growing mold. Freeze it in small containers that are great for lunches, or quick recipe substitutions in baking if you don’t want or have any eggs on hand.

The kids want spaghetti! But then they don’t want spaghetti. And here you just opened the giant jar of sauce. Freeze it in portions your family uses.

Rice, rice baby: Making extra of this popular grain is easy because it seems to magically triple its volume from what you expect. Portion out leftovers into two cups per plastic bag, then label and freeze. That way you’ll have it ready to go for future casseroles, skillet meals, etc.

HB

From messmakers to time-savers

Warming up taco shells: place them open-side down on a cookie sheet so they don’t fold in while baking. Some people use fancy speciality baking sheets or balled-up foil, but this is much easier.

Cherry tomatoes for a salad? Cut them all at once by gently sandwiching them between two plastic container lids, leaving enough space to run a knife horizontally through the centers. Voila! No more time spent cutting each individual tiny tomato.

Store self-stir peanut butter upside down before you open it. That way the oil will move through the peanut butter, which allows for easier mixing when you do open it. Once it’s open, though, you risk a leak if you store it upside down. Screw that lid on tight if you’re going to live that dangerously.

Microwave corn on the cob in its husk. No soaking is needed, and don’t even worry about the tassels.

About four minutes should do, then cut the bottom off and pull the sleeve off the husk (it will be hot, so use a towel or mitts). Ready for butter.

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Our Favorite Helpful Cooking Hacks

Pre-chopped, bagged and grab-and-go

Baby carrots might be the winner of the brown-bag lunch award, if there is such a thing. They are a convincing size for kids to actually eat and perfect for dipping.

Precooked bacon saves you and your kitchen from greasy messes. If you still love fresh cooked, run it under cold water before cooking to reduce shrinkage and splatter. Cooking it on an outdoor grill is a good way to keep your house from the lingering odor.

Let’s get digital

Digital instant-read thermometer.

This one is life-changing: not only is it superfast in giving you a temperature read, you’ll be relieved in knowing that your dish is cooked thoroughly for food safety. Let’s have a moment of silence for all the over-cooked chicken before these were invented.

Recipe Keeper is a free app that allows you to import recipes from a website, then divides them up into ingredients, directions, notes, and so on. If you’ve already read a favorite blogger’s story about how she fell in love with a curry dish while traveling to India, this app lets you skip that part. No more scrolling and scrolling waaaay down, or searching for the tiny “jump to recipe” button.

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Rotisserie chicken: If the clouds part in a grocery store and a choir of angels sing, it’s above the grab-and-go rotisserie chicken stand. It’s a weeknight meal and then some. Pull the leftovers to use in enchiladas or salads the next day, or freeze them for future recipes.

About two cups in a freezer bag is almost perfect for a standard casserole.

Pinterest is a go-to tool for meal planning. If you’re like most moms, you forget what you made that the whole family liked versus what the kids said tasted like feet. Level up your saved recipes by categorizing them into family favorites and family rejects.

HEALTHY, HAPPY CHILDREN

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

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/mäm/ noun Takes care of her children or other living things that live under her roof. She will do anything for her family. The one person who knows where all of your stuff is. Her love is unconditional.

“Mom, where are my shoes?”

/wou/ exclamation Expressing astonishment or admiration “Wow, Mom! You are amazing!” they cried enthusiastically.

To all those women that put the WOW in MOM. mommag.com 32