Salem MOM | December 2020/ January 2021

real local moms

since 2005

Salem | December 2020 / January 2021

FREE

COVER MOM

GIFTS FOR

CAKES & PIES OF

ALIX BRANT

GUYS

THE SEASON

Did You Know We Cover Obstetrics and Pediatrics too?

In addition to caring for you through your pregnancy and delivery, Dr. Alvale, Dr. Dunham and Dr. McCarthy provide primary care for infants, children, and adults.

Emily Alvale, M D

Sara Dunham, MD

O y, D h t r a cC Eva M

Sublimity Medical Clinic specializes in family medicine for all stages of life. As a family based clinic, patients come here for many medical needs, including well-child and adult wellness visits, vaccines, laboratory services, on-site procedures and management of acute and chronic conditions.

In addition to primary care, Dr. Alvale, Dr. Dunham and Dr. McCarthy provide in clinic obstetric care and delivery services, including cesarean section, at Santiam Hospital.

SUBLIMITY MEDICAL CLINIC Part of Santiam Hospital

503.769.2259

santiamhospital.org

114 SE Church St. ¡ Sublimity

Santiam Hospital & Clinics accept all insurance including all Medicare Plans, OHP, Kaiser Permanente & Blue Cross 2 mommag.com

It’s what‘s

inside that counts

Self-care checklist for moms 7

Cakes & pies of the season 19

Meet the MOM experts .... 4 They know what they're

Cover MOM: Alix Brant ......................... 10

Cakes & pies of the season........................ 19

talking about

This mom gets real

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

Self-care checklist for moms ............................ 7

We’re sharing a few favorite cakes and pies

A message from MOM

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

Now it’s time to care for you

Creative ways to get exercise this season, both indoors

Gifts for guys

24

with you this season

Gifts for guys ...................24 For the hard-to-shop-for husband or father-in-law

and out

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] Say Cheese.

Say cheese with Dr. Ana Castilla, page 6

Drive.

Health.

On the road with Kristina Minahan, page 18

Healthy MOM with Santiam Hospital, page 8

Money MOM Your finances with Caitlin Davis, CFP®, AAMS®, Page 28

“I love when my kids tell me they’re bored. As if the lady standing in front of the sink full of dirty dishes is where you go to get ideas about how to have a good time.

“

— Just about every mom

4 mommag.com

Organized. with Megan Warren, professional organizer, page 30

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. © 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.

EDITOR'S NOTE

ANYONE ELSE FEEL 100 YEARS OLD? This year has been a doozy, from the pandemic to racial reckonings, wildfires to elections. Oh, and a dash of murder hornets, too. If you’re like me, you’re exhausted and feel as if you’ve aged decades in just one year.

If you are of the same mind, we also know that tired, frazzled moms are not good for anyone.

In this issue we talk about self-care, of which many of us aren’t the best; the kids and their needs always seem to come first. Yet, the old “put your oxygen mask on first” logic applies: if we aren’t taking care of ourselves, we can’t take care of others. So nap with your toddler, buy yourself those cute earrings you’ve had your eye on. Even small things can give you the boost you need to carry yourself through the holidays and into 2021.

We also added a new feature to our cover MOM stories: a list of favorite local shops, restaurants, places and more. Because we are local (and a small, mighty team of just four people), we deeply understand the importance of supporting our local places as much as we possibly can.

Also in this issue you’ll find a gift guide with several fabulous Oregon-based products. Did you know the company that makes those influencer-level of popular Hydroflasks is headquartered in Bend, Oregon?

Finally, if this time of year is getting you down, I’d like to recommend pie. Pie makes everything better. We hope you enjoy the recipes we share in this issue.

Happy Holidays!

Audrey Meier DeKam Editor-in-Chief

mommag.com 5

A NEW YEAR, A NEW SMILE When it comes to achieving New Year’s resolutions, you’ve probably heard that accomplishing a large goal is doable when broken down into smaller parts.

I

F YOU OR YOUR CHILD need

braces for correcting dental issues, or you simply want a more beautiful smile, it’s easier than you think to accomplish. It starts with small steps:

A free consultation It’s free, so that part is a no-brainer. We take all the necessary pandemic-related precautions in our office to keep you safe if you choose to come in person for your consultation, as well as every visit after that. If you’d rather do this virtually, it’s easy: using your smartphone, a few spoons and the directions at castillaortho.com, it’s a snap!

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

Get braces at your first visit Yes, really. For most patients we can put clear or colorful braces on at your free consultation or very first visit.

Fuss-free financing We work with all budgets, offering $0 down for braces and monthly payments of $129/ month. And with 0% financing, it’s easy to treat yourself.

Three small steps lead to healthy, beautiful new smiles in the new year. What an accomplishment!

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 6 mommag.com

FAMILY MEDICINE

salemclinic.org

URGENT CARE

503.399.2424

Self-care checklist for moms YOU TAKE CARE OF EVERYONE ELSE. NOW IT’S TIME TO CARE FOR YOU.

The basics Book physical, dental and eye checkups. A clean bill of health is the best gift of all.

Schedule any preventive screenings recommended by your health care provider, such as a mammogram or colonoscopy.

If you’ve been meaning to try or restart talk therapy, now is the time.

Your mental health is crucial to every part of your overall health.

Take care of anything you’ve needed to do for a while and have put off, such as a funky mole you need looked at by a dermatologist, or an old sports injury that needs attention.

Spoil yourself

The aesthetics

Buy yourself something that’s just for you, not for the kids. We hear good things about Felicity Boutique in SE Salem. Cute on-trend feather earrings? Dopamine burst!

Maybe you’ve been thinking about laser eye surgery or injectables like Botox. Look for a board-certified provider and see if they offer free consultations.

Try a meal delivery service: Ivy’s Cookin’ in Eugene delivers homecooked vegetarian meals right to your door, which is perfect for new moms, moms of toddlers and moms who simply need a break. Visit ivyscookin.com for details.

Treat yourself: Winter is the perfect time for chemical peels and laser hair removal because as Oregonians, we get much less sun exposure. In fact, staying out of the sun is key to reducing the chance of skin lightening or darkening after such treatments, say the experts at Samaritan Plastic, Reconstruction & Hand Surgery in Corvallis.

Get rid of five old items of clothes you don’t wear anymore and invest in one great quality item that will last.

Take a walk or get away by yourself.

It cleanses the mind to not hear, “Mom! Mom! Mom!” for a few hours.

Spring for a housekeeper. Even if it’s a one-time deal, it gives you a break.

Get a massage, mani, pedi...it’s up to you. If you’re not into those, paint your toenails. Even if no one else sees them in winter, you’ll enjoy them.

Use your child’s naptime to take one yourself. Leave the laundry you were going to fold, forget about the early start on dinner. A nap for mom might be best for everyone.

Book your hair services for the year. Yes, people do this. If your stylist sends text message reminders, sign up for them and add them to your calendar.

mommag.com 7

STAY ACTIVE THIS SEASON

WE ALL KNOW WINTER IN OREGON CAN BE LONG AND DREARY, AND THIS YEAR WE’RE FACED WITH EXTRA CHALLENGES. BUT THERE ARE CREATIVE WAYS TO GET EXERCISE THIS SEASON, BOTH INDOORS AND OUT.

8 mommag.com

“

A little sprinkle never hurt anyone. Bundle up, mask up and back up from others at least 6 feet.

”

• Play volleyball with a balloon, for an inexpensive, indoor and furniture-safe alternative of the game.

Make sure the area is clear of sharp edges, and see how long you can volley the balloon back and forth.

A

s the weather forces us indoors for most of the next few months, families will have to get creative when helping children and teens get enough exercise.

There’s a saying in Oregon: “If you wait for it to stop raining, you’ll never get anything done.” The same can be said for making the most of the fall and winter months. In most years we might cozy up inside at the faintest drizzle, but since March, we’re all getting a little fatigued with the indoors. Fresh air is good for you, cold weather does not make you sick, and current findings about disease Cold weather does transmission suggest that not make you sick. outside may be one of the healthiest places to be.

This year, think about spending time outside in weather that you might ordinarily avoid. A little sprinkle never hurt anyone. Bundle up, mask up and back up from others at least 6 feet. Find a well-lit park or neighborhood and make a regular walking or bicycling routine for as long as Mother Nature will comfortably allow.

Of course, there are times when the weather can make outdoor excursions nearly impossible (or at least uncomfortable) for some weeks at a time. With indoor gyms and trampoline parks facing restrictions or closure, you may feel more comfortable letting your kids get their wiggles out at home. The good news is, you don’t need a lot of space to keep them active.

For younger children, most activities can be accomplished by pushing a coffee table aside and opening up a safe area to get moving. Try these activities:

• Play video games. No, not that type of video game; the kind of video games that encourage movement through dance or by simulating sports (tennis, baseball, etc.) Alternatively, search your local cable listings for kid-centered exercise programs.

• Stick to gym class classics. Remember hula hoops?

They’re a great activity in the living room, in the garage or carport and help kids burn off some energy.

Jumping jacks also get the blood moving and don’t require a lot of space to do.

Older children and teens may have interests that more closely align with adults. Talk to your kids and see if there is something you can do together or as a family, such as: • Set up a home gym. With a bit of planning and a little luck, you can set up a decent home gym in a spare room, carport or garage. Used exercise equipment can often be found at reasonable prices on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. If lifting weights, be sure to receive some instruction beforehand to avoid injury.

• Group exercise without the group. Invest in some exercise DVDs (yoga, cardio, etc.) and see which ones are most enjoyable. You can find DVDs at thrift stores or the library (curbside service is available at most libraries). Also, some cable channels offer exercise programs you can record.

With kids in front of the computer so much, and now for school as well, it’s important to carve out specific time for the exercise they would normally get in the course of their day. Keeping active will contribute to their overall well-being and help the entire family navigate the winter months.

• Have a dance party. Set a time every day, such as when kids are done with online school, to bust some moves. Let the kids pick the music and join in. They might even teach you the latest dance.

Brought to you by: www.santiamhospital.org

mommag.com 9

Cover MOM Alix Brant defines what it means to live bravely, with kidney disease and the hope for a transplant.

ALIX BRANT

Photo credit: Joni Loraine Photography

Family

Husband: Jeffrey Brant, TMobile CRE Children: Kelsie, 12 Community: Salem

Profession: Teacher and homeschool teacher

10 mommag.com

mommag.com 11

QA

Family comes first.

All families are unique. Tell us about yours.

My husband Jeff is 62, I’m 52 and Kelsie is 12. We have three dogs and three chickens. I had to wait quite a while to become a mom (40 years old), as I have health issues that prevented me from pregnancy.

Every family has their own traditions, rituals or inside jokes. What’s one of yours? Jeff plays the guitar and sings worship music so during COVID-19 we have been having our own church services at home.

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

I think parenting has always been a challenge. I do have to work harder to keep my daughter safe from media-related dangers than my mom had to.

Tell us about one of your proudest mom moments. I am always proud, but I think I’m most proud of how Kelsie handles my kidney disease. My doing dialysis every single day (at home) takes time away from her. She often goes with me to doctor

12 mommag.com

appointments and even holds my hand if the procedure is especially taxing. We all used to kayak, hike and swim together, but I have not been able to for over three years.

She is the reason I stay strong and positive about life.

What is something you swore you would never do before kids that you now do? (skip showers, go through drive-through coffee in your pjs, etc.)? I have to admit, when I was teaching elementary school before I became I mom, I could be pretty judgy about my students not turning in homework. Once I started encountering the homework tears, I saw it all much more clearly!

In what way is your child like you? How is she different? Kelsie acquired my love of puns and jokes. She is creative and a tad bouncy, like me. She is so compassionate. Her heart for others is always an inspiration to me.

You know you’re a mom when you hear yourself say, “______________.” Just do it the first time I tell you!

Your biggest wish for your child is… That she will cherish herself and others and always accept that we each have our own story.

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? My husband is amazing. He is truly my rock. I never feel like stuff is just “mom’s job.” We are partners in everything, so if something is too much for one of us, we work together to complete it. Balancing teaching online, teaching at home, doing dialysis and other medical tasks can be overwhelming, but I always feel supported.

Tell us about your work or volunteerism outside of the home. I have been a teacher since 1992.

Over the past 3 years, I have been at Our Savior’s Lutheran School where I taught Spanish for two years, and now I teach second grade online with Google Classroom.

I have volunteered with Donate Life Northwest, a non-profit organization that maintains the donor registry for Oregon.

They work to educate and inform about life-saving organ donation.

I have tried to model unselfish giving to my daughter. When she was little, I would sign us up to ring the bell for the Salvation Army

or more recently we helped gather items for the United Way after the fires. I also host a book club every month called Mixed Minds Book Club.

What have you learned professionally, that has helped you as a mom? Teaching prepared me to be a mom in giving me more patience than I might otherwise have had. I’m able to keep up with her education and now most recently, homeschool her.

Tell us about a recent achievement you’re proud of, or a personal passion or talent. Before my kidney disease progressed, I ice-climbed on Mt. Hood and swam across the Columbia River. After I get my new kidney, I hope to do a lot more hiking.

When was the last time you failed? What did you learn? Through my many failures, I have learned not to judge other people’s stories.

Do you have a goal you’d like to accomplish within the next five years? Obviously acquire a new kidney! If anyone considers donating a kidney to me, email alixneedsakidney@ gmail.com. Or, go directly to Legacy Transplant Services online and fill out a questionnaire. My other goals include to guide and love my daughter through her teen years, travel back to Europe with my husband, and have as many dogs and chickens as my husband agrees to.

now. Having a lovely place to live instilled in me a sense of community and a desire to help local businesses. I enjoy sharing that with my daughter.

If mom’s not happy, nobody’s happy.

What is special about where you grew up? I love that I had a friend across the street that I spent countless hours with. We rode bikes to Bush Park, had homemade puppet shows in her backyard, and even walked to Lil Bill’s for 25-cent ice cream cones. Additionally, my step-dad John Ritter has taught me a lot about Salem’s history through his local tours and talks.

Tell us about your community/upbringing growing up. How did it shape the mother you are today? I spent most of my growing up years in South Salem. Bush Park, Enchanted Forest and Minto Park are all beloved places of mine that I get to share with my daughter

What do you think is the most important life skill or value your parents taught you? My parents worked in careers that always helped those in need, in social services, the hospital and the prison. My mom has volunteered for Helping Hands for over 35 years. The

mommag.com 13

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

Share your favorite… …shop to pick up a gift for friend: Aunt Bee’s House …coffee spot: Bentley’s Downtown …spot to get a good workout: Minto Park (bicycling or dog park) …restaurant to take the kids: BeeHive Station Food Pod …restaurants for a date night: Azuls Taco House …food truck: Dalia’s Taqueria …meetup spot for happy hour: Wild Pear …place where the kids can let off steam: Salem Tennis & Swim …event in your community: Salem Art Fair

MOM’s Favorite... …family game: Scrabble …words to live by: Love people for who they are.

importance of education and helping others has always been modeled to me.

When was the last time you did something for the first time? When we realized our daughter was going to be home for school in March, we decided it was as good a time as any to build a chicken coop in our backyard.

We followed the City of Salem guidelines and now we have three delightful hens, named Selma, Elsa and Kaitlyn, that lay eggs daily.

If you could turn any activity into an Olympic sport, in which event would you win a gold medal? Vacuuming dog hair Name one thing that is part of your daily routine that you just can’t live without. Morning coffee

What is something you will never do again?

Paraglide. I’m glad I tried it, but I did not enjoy it!

Tell us something about you that would surprise your kids (or your husband). I once got picked up for a date in a Cessna Airplane.

What are three words your best friend would use to describe you? The wonderful friend who nominated me says “compassionate, adventurous and a loyal friend.”

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? I love to read for my book club, make soups, nap in the sun, hang out with my dogs and chickens.

…place to find some peace & quiet: My garden

What are three words your daughter would use to describe you? Loving, consistent (aka strict) and goofy.

…inspirational quote: “This is your story. Be brave for yourself, be brave for God, and be brave for the onlookers, the ones who will be inspired by you to inspire others.” — Annie Downs

What is the quality you like most about yourself? Having kidney disease and being on a transplant waiting list has been one of the biggest challenges of my life and my quality has been brave. I am brave and grateful for all the blessings in my life.

…time-saving app or digital tool: I’d forget everything without my calendar.

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 sing well enough to be on a worship team.

14 mommag.com

What’s in your mom purse right now? I use a small backpack instead, so I don’t lose it. It has my wallet, keys, alphabetized gift card/ punch card holder and squeezy ball for when I get shots/blood draws (which I hate).

What keeps you up at night? Honestly, the discomfort from dialysis is the main thing.

And I worry about my daughter missing her junior high experiences (maybe that’s a good thing?).

What keeps you sane? My husband is so stable and even tempered, he really keeps me level. If I’m having a rocky day, I can rely on him to listen and restabilize me.

What is the best way that you let off steam?

Walking the dogs at the dog park really helps me relax.

“Having kidney disease and being on a transplant waiting list has been one of the biggest challenges...I am brave and grateful for all the blessings in my life.�

mommag.com 15

What’s your guilty pleasure? (dark chocolate hidden in the pantry, TJ Maxx, daily latte habit?) On free afternoons, I love going to Aunt Bee’s House and Café Yumm! for lunch. Getting my hair done by Xyzia Guzman is definitely a pleasure.

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

She is always thinking of those less fortunate and does countless things for others, including cooking meals for the women’s shelter.

What is your greatest extravagance?

A bottle of wine that’s over $10.

What is something you think everyone should do at least once in their lives? Travel. It opens your eyes beyond your own small existence.

There is beauty in this world.

Who is your favorite fictional hero? Anne of Green Gables. I love her spunkiness and bravery, and she grew up to become a teacher.

Who is your favorite real-life hero? Jessica Ritter Champion. My beautiful cousin and co-owner of Ritter’s passed away recently from cancer. She suffered tremendously yet even when I saw her right before her death, she had a sparkle and shine in her eyes and kissed my daughter’s cheek. She was so strong and is an inspiration to me to be the same.

16 mommag.com

They say that everyone has a book in them.

What’s the title of your book? Mixed Minds Book Club

Listen to mom.

Is motherhood what you expected? What surprised you the most? It is not at all what I expected. It’s much, much harder, but so deeply rewarding I would never trade it. I’m

loving watching my daughter become her own unique person and I’m excited to see where the future leads her.

What message would you like to share with other moms? Remember to tell it like it is. It’s absolutely true that we have all been there.

When people notice your screaming child in a store, it’s because they are remembering the time their own child did the same. Don’t be too hard on yourself.

[ Momism #140: Log

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

into class before you’re late.

]

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

on the road

Do

What to keep (and not to keep)

in your car for winter

THINK OF IT AS A NAUGHTY AND NICE LIST.

Don’t

The basics: jumper cables, a filled spare tire with necessary tools, and a first aid kit

You know this already because you are smart: kids and pets should never be left alone in vehicles.

Clean masks. Just not dangling from your rearview mirror or any other place that obstructs your view.

Anything you don’t want stolen, including documents with credit card numbers or other sensitive information.

Spare blankets, towels, coats, gloves, etc.

Hand sanitizer: while cold temperatures are not as likely to impact alcohol-based types, play it safe and keep it in your purse. Same for sunscreen.

Spare diapers, wipes, crackers and other age-appropriate, non-perishable supplies to keep kids content.

Cheap sunglasses: extreme temperatures can make them prone to breaking, so don’t leave your nice ones in the car.

Bag of sand or non-clumping cat litter A shovel. A folding one will often fit in a cargo space holder.

An ice scraper and chains for snowy places

Electronics Christmas presents that are sensitive to temperature Beverages: they can explode or go bad Aerosol-type cans and canned goods Medications

Brought to you by:

A working flashlight and flares

18 mommag.com

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.

CAKES & PIES OF THE SEASON

FAVORITE CAKES & PIES

We’re sharing a few favorite cakes and pies with you this season. Enjoy, and happy holidays from all of us at MOM Magazine.

mommag.com 19

MOM’s Apple Pie This is a classic that appeases the masses. There are numerous schools of thought on what type of apples to use; to keep it simple, the Granny Smith variety is a solid choice.

IT’S A GREAT TIME TO BAKE. When it’s cold outside, the oven is warm and your home is rich with the aroma of something delicious cooking, the kids will drop their screen time and come running.

Plus, when you bake from recipes, you can control the quality of the ingredients and make adjustments that suit your family, like for that one child who hates cinnamon.

And the nostalgia of using a family favorite recipe builds a legacy of memories.

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FOR THE CRUST

FOR THE FILLING:

2 ¼ cups flour

6

cups of apples cut into ⅛-inch slices

¾

cup sugar

⅓ cup cold milk

1

teaspoon cinnamon

½ cup + 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

5

tablespoons flour

DIRECTIONS

DIRECTIONS

Mix flour, sugar and salt in a bowl and set aside.

Mix sugar, cinnamon and flour together, then combine with apple slices until evenly coated. Put into the prepared pie crust.

½ teaspoon sugar

Pinch of salt

Pour milk and oil in a measuring cup and don’t stir. Add it all at once to the flour, then stir with a fork until it becomes thick dough.

Divide dough in half and roll out each separately, using wax paper underneath and cling wrap on top so it doesn’t stick to the rolling pin.

Drape one rolled out portion to a pie baking dish and trim the edges.

Once the filling is ready and added to the dish, cover it with the second rolled out dough. Trim and pinch the edges closed all the way around. Poke the top with a fork in several places for steam vents.

Try adding a lattice top crust (shown here) or use cookie cutters to create a unique decorative pattern.

Bake about 40 - 50 minutes at 400 degrees, covering loosely with foil for the first 20 minutes. Let cool for 30 minutes before serving.

Sugar & Spice Cake Forget those plug-in air fresheners, baking this cake will make your whole house smell delicious. Save some to have with your coffee.

INGREDIENTS

Roll the perfect crust Don’t be stingy with the flour Sprinkle flour liberally on your surface and right onto the dough.

1

cup margarine or butter

2

cups sugar

3

beaten eggs

2

cups raisins

2

cups boiling water

2

teaspoons baking soda

2

teaspoons cinnamon

½

teaspoon ground cloves

½

teaspoon allspice

3

cups flour

1

teaspoon baking powder

½

cup nuts (optional)

DIRECTIONS Mix the first 9 ingredients together in a saucepan. Let the mixture come to a boil, stirring occasionally, then cool.

Seal cracks as you go When you roll, stop to press cracks closed. Pay attention to the edges, as they are prone to cracking.

Add the flour, baking powder and nuts (optional) and stir to combine. Pour into prepared pan.

Brush it off

Bake in a 9 x 13 pan at 350 degrees for about an hour, or until an inserted fork comes out clean. When it comes to room temperature, you can dust with powdered sugar.

Once your dough is rolled, use a food brush to gently get rid of excess flour.

mommag.com 21

FAVORITE CAKES & PIES

Upside-down Cranberry Cake This tangy, cheerful cake celebrates the berry of the season, with orange zest giving it pep.

Fresh cranberries make all the difference, so spring for them and you won’t be disappointed.

22 mommag.com

TOPPING

DIRECTIONS

1/3

cup butter

3/4

cup packed brown sugar

Grease a 9-inch cake pan with butter, then sprinkle with flour.

Because you’ll flip this cake out when it’s done, you’ll want to generously grease the cake pan.

12 oz. fresh cranberries

CAKE 1 1/2 cups flour 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

Combine the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and ground ginger and set aside.

In a large bowl, cream together the 1/2 cup butter and 1 cup sugar. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.

Alternately stir the wet ingredients into the flour mixture, adding in the milk and sour cream. Mix until incorporated.Stir in the orange zest.

¼

teaspoon salt

1/2

teaspoon ground ginger

1/4

teaspoon ground cinnamon

½

cup butter at room temperature

1

cup sugar

2

eggs

1

teaspoon vanilla extract

½

cup sour cream

¾

cup milk

Cool on a rack for 10 minutes, then run a blunt knife around the edge. Then turn the cake out onto a platter. Don’t wait longer or it will stick.

1

tablespoon orange zest

Decorate with fresh cranberries, orange twists or green accents.

In a saucepan on medium, melt 1/3 cup of butter and add the brown sugar. Take off heat and add the fresh cranberries. Pour this mixture into the greased cake pan.

Pour batter over the berries. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a fork inserted into the center comes out clean.

Pecan Pie Albany mom and former professional baker Krista Fortenberry shares one of her fabulous pies with us. And you need not feel guilty with this one: pecans are surprisingly high in fiber, as well as thiamin and zinc.

FOR THE CRUST:

DIRECTIONS

2 3/4 cups all purpose flour

Heat oven to 375 degrees; place cookie sheet in oven to preheat.

2

tablespoons granulated sugar

1/2

cup unsalted butter (chilled and cubed)

2/3

cup vegetable shortening (chilled)

1/2

teaspoon salt

Ice cold water (up to 1/2 cup)

FOR THE FILLING: 1

cup packed brown sugar

1/3

melted butter

3/4

cup corn syrup

1/2

teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups of chopped pecans 3

large eggs

In a medium bowl, combine flour and salt.

Mix well. With a pastry blender or fork, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with a few pea-sized morsels remaining.

Sprinkle with ice water (1 tablespoon at a time), while mixing and tossing lightly with a fork. Add water until the dough is just moist enough to form a ball when lightly pressed together. Too much water causes the dough to become sticky and tough.

In a medium bowl, beat brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, salt and eggs with whisk until well blended; stir in pecans. Pour into the crust.

Bake the pie on the preheated cookie sheet, 35 to 45 minutes or until center is set. After 15 to 20 minutes of baking, cover crust edge with strips of foil to prevent excessive browning.

Cool 30 minutes; refrigerate at least 2 hours until chilled before serving.

mommag.com 23

Gifts for Guys

From the hard-to-shop-for husband, to the father-in-law who says he doesn’t need anything, most moms agree that guys are the most difficult ones on their gift lists. Funny thing: they say the same things about us!

24 mommag.com

W

e’ve compiled a list of items we think will delight the Y chromosome, but of course you’ll find items here that you’ll want for yourself, your wife, your child’s awesome teacher, and so on. We just liked the alliteration of the headline.

BONUS: Many of these products

come from Oregon. Look for the State of Oregon symbol.

1

4 2 3

2 HYDRO FLASK

3 LEATHERMAN MULTI-TOOL

4 TREKKING STICKS

These distinctive wool blankets honor America’s National Parks, from Crater Lake to Zion. Woven in the Pacific Northwest for nearly 100 years, each design tells a story.

With a reputation for lasting construction, these water bottles are popular with everyone, from outdoors enthusiasts to dehydrated desk jockeys. Available in a wide variety of colors and styles.

The company is headquartered in Bend, Oregon.

Made in Portland and engraveable, Leatherman’s handy Multi-Tool is a knife + pliers + scissors + bottle opener + many, many more things. It’s an all-in-one compact tool that is ideal to keep with the camping gear or in the glove box.

A must for hiking enthusiasts, a pair of lightweight trekking poles provides stability on steep hikes. Consider the terrain and weather of the recipient’s hiking areas. Numerous styles are available.

Pendleton-usa.com

Hydroflask.com

Leatherman.com

REI.com

1 PENDLETON NATIONAL PARK BLANKETS

mommag.com 25

5

6

7

10

8

9

8 PI DISH Math geeks will love this fun pie dish. Made from oven-safe stoneware, the outer rim features the first 100 numerals of Pi. Amazon.com 9 POO-POURRI FLUSHDOWN 6 INVISIBALL ICE KIT

7 SECRET AARDVARK SAUCE

Out of Yakima Valley, this brew kit makes an IPA with spicy citrus notes. Great for someone who loves beer and is ready to try their hand at making their own.

Craft ice cubes are all the rage, giving drinks a certain flair in presentation. One from Corkcicle is designed to make impurities float to the bottom and bubbles rise to the top, giving you crystal clear, premium ice spheres.

Hot sauce lovers, rejoice with this Oregon-based favorite.

Described as a “Caribbean/ Tex-Mex hybrid” style, there are people who put it on everything from eggs to burgers. Available in a variety of flavors, in bottles or combo packs.

This is a real product. We repeat, this is a real product. Before you go to the toilet, you spray it on the water’s surface, which creates an odor barrier. Then proceed with “business as usual.”

Numerous scents are available, with hilarious titles like Master Crapsman, Royal Flush and many more “best smellers.”

Uncommongoods.com

Corkcicle.com

Secretaardvark.com

PooPourri.com

5 WEST COAST STYLE IPA BEER BREWING KIT

26 mommag.com

11 12

13

10 NETFLIX, DISNEY+, SLING TV, APPLE TV+ OR OTHER STREAMING SUBSCRIPTION We’re home a lot right now, so you might as well give the gift of a viewing subscription. Side benefit: your kids can finally see hit shows like The Mandalorian, Paw Patrol, Stranger Things and others, depending on which streaming service you choose.

11 WORK WONNIE

13 23ANDME KITS

For the work-from-home guy who needs business on top and comfort on the bottom, the Work Wonnie is a mullet for the wardrobe. With a butt flap.

Ring in the new year with this flameless, funny candle by RexRoi3D in Los Angeles. They also have an ornament version.

For anyone wanting to explore or confirm their genetic history, DNA kits are a perfect gift.

From finding your great-greatgrandmother’s Sicilian roots, to tracing parts of your family history to India, the results give insight into your own unique origin story on this planet. A word of caution: sometimes the results upend and surprise people, revealing secret affairs and unknown adoptions.

Etsy.com

23andme.com

Workwonnies.com 12 2020 DUMPSTER FIRE

14 SUBSCRIPTIONS TO YOUR LOCAL NEWSPAPERS Get home delivery or a digital subscription. You’ll support local journalism, and be up-to-date on the latest in your hometown.

Visit your local newspaper’s website.

mommag.com 27

Money MOM

I am a mom of two young children and I run my own business helping families reach their financial goals, so I get how pressed for time you are. Here are five simple steps to help you have your best money year yet.

STEP

1 Schedule yourself 30 minutes to review your spending. You KNOW WHERE YOUR MONEY GOES

STEP

don’t need to have spreadsheets with every expense perfectly categorized — just have the last 3 months of bank and credit card statements handy. Then, sort your expenses into categories: regular bills and payments, necessary everyday expenses, discretionary expenses, and unexpected expenses.

Over the last three months what was your average in each category? Guess what: now you have a budget!

2

BE PREPARED FOR THE UNEXPECTED

3

GET ORGANIZED

STEP

Save 3 – 6 months worth of your budget in a separate emergency fund account. Determining how many months depends on how secure your income is, and how often you find yourself with unexpected expenses. Write down the amount you need to have in your emergency account then set up a regular payment into it until you reach your target.

Get together all your financial statements, including auto loans, mortgages, credit cards, insurance policies, banks, investments, retirement accounts, etc. Many of these are online so you may choose to save them to a folder on your computer. If you prefer paper, grab a box and a few folders, title the box financial documents and start gathering. Once you have everything together you can utilize the folders to separate and categorize.

28 mommag.com

4

GET TO DREAMING

Now that you have an idea of what and where you spend every month, you’ve set an emergency fund in action, and you gathered all of your financial documents, take a deep breath, relax and think about what's next for you and your family.

Time to dream: What do you want your life to look like in 3, 5 or 10 years? Where will you be living, what will the house look like, what will your days consist of, and how will you feel?

Once you have a few ideas, think about how you might get there. If this part is difficult, table it and move on to Step 5.

STEP

T

his past year, many of us found ourselves busier and more overwhelmed than ever before. You likely thought about your finances but found yourself pinched for time or exhausted at the thought of planning your financial future. I am here to tell you, finances don’t have to be complicated.

STEP

5 steps to a strong financial new year

5

FIND YOUR PERSON

As moms we often think we need to do everything. Well, I’m here to tell you, you do not have to do it all. The right financial advisor will change your world. Make a list of what you want from a financial advisor. How will you feel when you have found that person? What role do you want them to play in your life? Talk to a few and choose the one who gets to know you, where you currently stand financially, and what your goals are before they make any recommendations. A great financial advisor can take care of you for life.

Caitlin Davis, CFP®, AAMS® Financial Advisor, Edward Jones

515 Taggart Dr. NW, Ste #130 Salem, Oregon (503) 585-1464 edwardjones.com

[ Momism #74: No

peeking!

]

Does your Financial Advisor: In our office, we partner with you and your family at every stage of life. By revisiting your goals, risk, tolerance, and the strategies we’ve developed, we keep you on track to achieve what’s most important to you.

Understand your goals?

Have an established process?

How are we different?

Visit our office today to find out.

Design a personalized solution around you?

Caitlin Davis, CFP®, AAMS® Financial Advisor 515 Taggart Dr. NW, Suite #130 Salem, Oregon 97304 Tel. 503-585-1464 www.edwardjones.com

expand your reach with postcards OM PS ON HE NR Y TH

TE RE AL ES TA

O M PS O HE NR Y TH

N

TE RE AL ES TA Offered at $63

0,0 00

help you find our experts can e hom your perfect

4 bedrooms 3 baths

6.8 acres 3 car garage

123 st. Albany

oregon

541.926.3000

oregonwebpress.com

magazines • inserts • newspapers • postcards • catalogs • maps • calendars mommag.com 29

organized MOM

TM

START OFF YOUR NEW YEAR SHIPSHAPE & ORGANIZED

H

ere’s a plan (call it a New Year’s resolution, if you want) to start 2021 off right.

GOAL #1: Make a list of the

rooms in your home and assign a week in 2021 to tackle that space. Start with your most used space first, like the kitchen.

Account for all rooms, including the laundry room, garage, etc.

GOAL #2: In each week, use the

following checklist:

Brought to you by:

Declutter: Place any items you no longer need into categories of garbage, donate/yard sale, and rehome. Rehome is for items that belong elsewhere in your house or that you’d like to give to someone else.

30 mommag.com

Shipshape: Wipe down all S shelves, cabinets, the inside of drawers and baseboards. Clean mirrors and windows, and then the floors (under and behind furniture too).

Organize: Put every item in its appropriate place, and organize them how it’s most useful to you.

Remove: Take out the garbage, drop off donations or put yard sale items in a pile, and move items to their appropriate homes.

Plan: Make a list of any items you need to replace or restock, and buy them the next time you shop.

Your spring cleaning list just got a lot shorter because most of it will already be complete. What a great way to start off the new year.

Megan Warren Professional Organizer SOS Shipshape & Organized Spaces shipshapeyourspace.com 541-891-7100

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 31

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

www.mommag.com | info@mommag.com

The views, information and content in this magazine are not that of the organization that may have provided MOM Magazine to readers as a courtesy.

MOM Magazine and its distributors assume no liability for the contents or events arising out of its distribution.

/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