LancMoms.

com December 8, 2012

In this issue:

Moms the Word: Little things really do mean a lot Mom of the Month Holly Cummings

LancDad Whos the turkey?

An advertising supplement of the Intelligencer Journal/Lancaster New Era

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Barbara Hough Roda

Back on a Thursday morning in November, I pulled up to the drive-thru window at Dunkin Donuts on Columbia Avenue. The young woman who reached out to me with a cup of hot coffee and a pound of ground java, refused the cash clenched in my right fist. No charge, she told me, explaining that the man who was ahead of me in line paid for the order. It was one of those random acts of kindness, said the employee, obviously touched by the gesture as she fought back tears through a smile. Immediately, my mood brightened and the day seemed full of a potential that Id not considered minutes earlier. That small kindness, in turn, prompted me to leave a heftier tip. And I proceeded into the day telling one person after another how a strangers generosity altered my outlook in a very big and good way. It turned out to be a fitting segue into Thanksgiving, and the rest of the holiday season. It reminded me that its often the quiet, less dramatic events in life that are the most enduring and contagious. So this years

Little things really do mean a lot

December list is not one of package-wrapping and cookiebaking, but reminders of the little things in life for which Im thankful and to which I need to pay more attention. Among them: One extra week between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Reading glasses. Salvation Army bell ringers. And lets not pretend we dont see them when were rushing from one store to another. Consider tossing some coins and cash, no matter how big or how small, into their buckets and wishing these holiday volunteers a Happy Christmas. Watching my daughter while she sleeps. Cant help myself. Babies. Eyelid makeup primer. Greek yogurt. The anticipation of Les Miserables in theaters this month. People who give of themselves. And give. And give some more, even when it seems they should be running on empty. Hallelujah: The navigation capabilities on my iPhone. If only there was an app to ward off my own recklessness one that would keep me from spilling on it,

putting it in the refrigerator, and leaving it at the bank or on top of the car. The hope and joy inherent in new relationships. A daughter who cant yet drive. The sounds of Tchaikovsky and Berlin and Handel. Teachers. Old friends, and the safety net theyve crafted from years of shared experience. Hallmark Channel holiday movies. Im addicted. Hearing the Nativity story read aloud, again and again. The man who lets you get ahead of him in the long grocery-store line, and the mom who watches over your kids to allow extra time for running all of those extra errands. Always and forever, Wrigley Field and the Chicago Cubs. The dog, or cat, who tests the rules of the house by chewing on low-hanging Christmas tree ornaments but redeems himself by treating you like a celebrity every time you come home. Pinot noir. The Christmas spirit, which is best honored when it ignores the boundaries of the holiday season. Charles Dickens. Tis the

Ten-year-old Alex Flaim, of Narvon, reacts to the lighting of the 25-foot Douglas fir in downtown Lancasters Penn Square late last month. Its awesome, he said.
Photo: Andy Blackburn

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season for A Christmas Carol, but Im still partial to Great Expectations. Fuzzy socks. Children who are enamored less with their gifts, and more with the boxes in which they are delivered. Family ... even those members who drive us crazy. When the Christmas tree stands straight, the extension cords reach the wall and the light strands work. The scent of pine. Friends who disagree with my opinions, political and otherwise, but like me anyway. Electric carving knives. The unconditional love of grandparents for their

grandchildren. Its a Wonderful Life and White Christmas. Glitter, and lots of it. People who work the holidays so the rest of us dont have to. The honesty of our kids even when its something like, Mom, is your hair really supposed to look like that? High heels. Gotta have em. Good health. And all of the random acts of kindness yet to be. Barbara Hough Roda is mom to Faith and a news editor with Lancaster Newspapers Inc. Email her at broda@lnpnews.com or call 481-7335.

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Mom of the Month ~ Holly Cummings

Holly Cummings remembers it like it was yesterday. She was about 20 years old and her boyfriend, Rob Cummings was getting ready to go to basic training for two weeks. The two met at Lancaster General Hospital Nursing School and had been dating for about a year. They were very close. It was the first time the two were separated and Holly didnt know how she would survive. She curled up in a little ball and cried her eyes out for those two weeks. Looking back, Holly can say those horrible two weeks early in their relationship were just a tiny hint of what was to come later during their marriage. Rob and Holly married the next year and today, almost 15 years later have five children: Gabrielle, 12; Max, 11; Addison, 5; Bethany, 3; and Juliette, 17 months. During his time in the military, Rob has been away a total of about seven years during their 15-year marriage. And though as of last May he has retired and is home permanently, it is not easy. Rob suffered a traumatic brain injury while serving in Iraq. He also suffers from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Additionally, some of the Cummings children have recently been diagnosed with special needs. As Holly puts it, Its been a wild ride. When Holly looks back at that 20-year-old girl who fell apart when her boyfriend was away at basic training, she doesnt understand how she is able to handle everything she does now: taking care of her children, her husband, and trying to reconnect them all. Its been a tough transition, she says. I cant truly understand what a wounded warrior is going through. All I can do is listen. I dont know. I just do it. And she does it so well that she was asked to be The Family Readiness Group Leader to assist other military families in her area. Also, in January, Holly plans to go back to school to learn how to be a Special Education Advocate for other military families. Shes already learned so much trying to navigate the system for her own children and she wants to be better trained to help others. For all Holly has had to endure, she doesnt want anyone feeling sorry for her. She grew up the oldest of three children and with many cousins. She also comes from a military family background and always wanted a large family. She says, I signed up for this. Holly is also quick to point out all the community help she receives. In addition to her own family, there is the couple that comes regularly to do her yard work, the Lititz Ladies Auxiliary who provides meals, and there were the students from Lancaster Bible College who spent a day raking and playing with her children in the leaves. Island Lake Camp has also provided her children with no or very low cost time at their camp in Starruca, PA. There have been so many wonderful people who have helped us, she said. Right now the Cummings family is working on becoming just that: a family. Holly says, Its been great having Rob home. Hes a big help and hes awesome. But Holly understands how it can be a little awkward for everyone. She explains to him light heartedly, Imagine what it would have been like for me and the kids to suddenly show up in Iraq to help you do your job! To further help in transitioning, the family took a trip to Disney World together and had a wonderful time regrouping. Holly says, You cant go wrong in Disney Land! Holly was nominated to be Mom of the Month by the Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW Post 1463 in Lititz. Bonnie Tedrow of the Auxiliary said, In spite of a situation that would tax most of us, Holly is a cheerful, upbeat, happy woman who always counts her blessings and looks to the good in anything. We are in awe of Hollys perseverance and her joy in life and we believe Lancaster County needs to know of her and the many military moms whose sacrifices go unnoticed. ~ Maureen Leader Special Features Writer

Holly Cummings with her children, front from left, Addison, 5; Juliette, 17 months; and Bethany, 3. In back are Gabrielle, 12, and Maximus, 11.

Photo/Jeff Ruppenthal

Holly and Rob Cummings will celebrate their 15th wedding anniversary on February 15th. The bulk of Hollys days revolve around her familys needs. However, she does try to do something for herself every day whether it is reading or simply taking a shower. Alone! Alone being the key word! Holly grew up in Philadelphia. Holly likes to scrapbook but admits she is a little behind in it. She figures she will have plenty of time later when all of her children are in school. They are not always going to be this little.

Mom fast facts

Holly tries to volunteer at her childrens school whenever she can. Holly praises her daughter, Gabrielle for being a big help to her while Rob was gone. She says, Everything happens for a reason. Count your blessings. Theres always someone who has it worse. A special treat for Holly is a bowl of cherry vanilla ice cream. That just seems to make everything seem better, she says.

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While pets can add much to you and your familys life, the holiday season may not be the best time to add one. Many people consider pets great holiday gifts. But in spite of their popularity as presents, pets do not always make the most appropriate holiday gift. Giving a pet as a present seems like a great idea, but shoppers might want to give it more consideration before giving a gift that is such a considerable responsibility. A puppy at Christmas or a bunny at Easter may be given with good intentions, but that well-meaning sentiment can easily backfire, ending with the pet being given up for adoption when recipients dont feel up to the task of raising a pet. In such instances, the companion animal pays the steepest price. Though it often is, buying a pet should not be an impulse purchase. You see sad eyes looking back at you from behind a cage door and want to give that animal a new home. However, introducing an animal into a family is not a decision to take lightly. You must factor how well the pet will fit in with the family dynamic. Do schedules allow for quality time spent with the animal? Is it a financially good time to care for an

Think twice before giving pets as holiday gifts

animal that will cost money? Are you aware of how long the pet will live? Making those big decisions for a person on the receiving end of your well-intentioned gift may be

become comfortable in their new environments. Here are some other reasons why the holidays may not be a good time for new pets. * Holiday visitors may frighten the new pet and he or she may become weary of strangers at the outset. * The activities in the household may pose safety hazards for the young animal. An abundance of rich foods and various decorations could be ingested, potentially causing illness. * New pets should be carefully supervised around children to see how they behave. A child may not be accustomed to handling a puppy or kitten and could injure the animal. Similarly, the pet may be skittish and lash out at the child. Adults busy with holiday obligations may be Reputable pet breeders and animal easily distracted and miss how their shelters often discourage individuals child is interacting with the new pet. from adopting or purchasing pets as holiday gifts. Many organizations * Once the glow of the and animal businesses require a holidays wear off, children may careful vetting of potential pet be disillusioned with the new parents to ensure the animal will be responsibility that has fallen into placed with a family and in a home their hands. They may not like the that is suitable. responsibility that comes with being Animal welfare groups warn a good pet owner. that an estimated 50 percent of pets adopted during the holidays end

crossing a line. Would you want to have such a life-changing decision made for you? Furthermore, the holiday season is not one ideally suited for making careful decisions. People are often swept up in emotions and even stress, and shoppers may not be thinking rationally. The hectic nature of the holiday season can be a difficult time for a pet to grow acclimated to its new environment. He or she may be frightened or take longer to settle down. Pets often need several weeks of quiet and constant care to

up right back at shelters. This can scar the pet. Avoid the temptation of giving a companion animal as a present. If it is your intention to gift an animal, talk to the gift recipient and discuss the pros and cons beforehand. Then you can work together and make the right decision for all parties involved, including the pet.

Did you know?

Online shopping
such as fine jewelry, furniture and televisions. It is possible to take advantage of deep price cuts the closer you get to Christmas Day. Keep in mind that you may have to pay a premium for getting those gifts delivered on time, which could offset the savings. Therefore, it might be a wise idea to present gift recipients with a photo of what they will be getting for the holidays and deliver the item a day or two later. Include a dozen or two homemade cookies with the photo to making waiting easier!

People have been ringing in the new year for centuries. It is believed that celebrating the new year dates back to the ancient Babylonians, who celebrated for 11 days with festivals and other fanfare. Today, many revelers celebrate for just a few hours. New York City, Disney World in Florida and Las Vegas are among the premier New Years

Eve destinations. New York is best known for its world-renowned Times Square celebration in the heart of Manhattan. Millions of people tune into the broadcast that showcases the ball drop during the countdown to the new year. The tradition of the ball drop may now belong to New York City, but it originated at Englands Royal Observatory at Greenwich in 1833.

Online shopping has expanded considerably in the last several years. Although Black Friday and its online counterpart, Cyber Monday, Inviting good luck for the may seem like the best times to gain upcoming year is often a the lowest prices on merchandise, component of New Years Eve it actually could pay to wait a celebrations. Some people engage little longer. So, if you missed the in superstitious activities like eating bargains a few weeks ago, do not 12 pieces of a certain food or despair. wearing red, a color that is supposed Merchants may offer deep to invoke good luck. The English discounts on premium items that look to the first-footer, or the first havent moved during the last days person to step foot into their house, of the holiday shopping season, to tell them how next years luck typically between Dec. 21 and 24. will be. This includes big-ticket products,

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Walk in my shoes ... Developing empathy

As the youngest of our three children completes college applications and navigates the peaks and valleys of her senior year in high school, there are many things swirling around in this mothers heart and brain. Its a mixed bag of reflection points: Im sure it was just yesterday that we brought her home to her big brother and sister, wasnt it? Who will she be a year from now? Five years? Ten years? Have we done our best to nurture her individual talents and strengths so she can bring about real positive change in her world? What quality do I most hope to see in my children? These questions arent new for me, as I asked the same ones when preparing to send her siblings off to college. The long list of attributes that I hope my children possess isnt necessary here, so Id like to focus in on the one quality of character that I think is vital to leading a meaningful life. There are also lots of folks who believe that this very trait is the basis for affecting positive change and promoting civility. Empathy ... Walk in my shoes. See it from my vantage point. Notice when I am hurting. Respond when I have a need. Rejoice with me when I experience successes. See me as a unique individual with an intricate and compelling story. There are lots of things we just dont have control over, but as parents, we can play a major role in developing empathy in our kids. This is one of those lessons that we must model, and it starts with how we treat our own little ones. So treating your child with respect and love is step one. Teaching him to name and regulate his emotions is next and takes about eighteen years! A child who can recognize her own emotions grows into a woman who can read and respond to the feelings and needs of others. The natural outcome of this awareness and sensitivity is becoming a person who understands that his actions affect those in his orbit and beyond. In order to develop a desire to help others who are hurting and/ or in need of physical and material help, its not enough to simply have an awareness of the need, you need to KNOW people in difficult situations. This requires going outside of your comfort zone. It involves giving of yourself and your time. It can mean setting aside some of your income to bring about good things for others. You see glimpses of empathy when your little one offers you her pacifier or blankie when you are sad or tired. Empathy is exhibited when he comforts a little buddy who plunks down on the playground. In junior high it surfaces when a bystander turns into a champion when a classmate is being bullied. The expression of empathy has played out in different ways in all three of our kids, as it should since they are all unique! For three years during college, our son spent a few hours every other week as a Big to his Little Brother. Kyliek doesnt have a dad, but for those three years he had a Big Brother. They shot hoops, visited the zoo (the big draw there was the cotton candy!), went bowling, munched on pizza, worked on homework, made plans and followed through with them. On the flip side, Sam had the privilege of seeing the world through a 6- to 9-year-olds eyes and experiencing a tiny bit of

Ask an Expert
Kirsten Freitag Murray

what a child needs to thrive. He also developed great respect for hisLittles mom, who is doing a tremendous job raising three kids on her own. In a very different scenario, our college sophomore had a community service aspect to her Language Abroad experience in Freiburg, Germany. There are a lot of destitute communities right outside the city, Elise says. There was a park where homeless people would hang out, and once a week my class went there to play soccer and get people in the community involved. The experience, she says, was unforgettable. We got to interact with people who didnt have the opportunity to have fun in their week. The soccer games allowed them to have an outlet in their life and interact with other people who normally would overlook them. Our youngest, still in the nest until fall, just returned from an extremely stretching and growing experience. Along with 20 classmates, Julia spent Thanksgiving week in a very hot and buggy destination teaching English to 1st through 5th graders,

playing games at recess and sleeping with (or being woken up by!) the roosters. It has made me even more thankful for things we take for granted here: the educational system; our talented teachers; running drinkable water; hot showers; paved roads; and screens on the windows to name a few. She adds that witnessing families scurrying back and forth across the border between the DR and Haiti, simply to get basic provisions, was very sobering and disconcerting. Move out of your comfort zone and out of the box. It turns into a give-give situation doesnt it usually pan out that way? Intentionally developing your childs capacity for empathy moves one more person into the category of becoming an agent of change in our world. Kirsten Freitag Murray, Strengthening Families Program: For Parents and Youth 10-14 Facilitator and Trainer (Iowa State), is a contributor to the LancMoms. com Ask an Expert feature.

Simplify gift giving

(BPT) Overwhelmed by your holiday shopping list and short on time? Here are a few tips to cut costs, stay organized, and still buy presents that your friends and family will love. 1. Stick to a budget. Arrive at the dollar amount you feel comfortable spending and stick with it. 2. Be prepared with back-up gift cards. 3. Bake simple homemade treats. Show off your culinary skills with some heart-healthy oatmeal cookies or your delectable apple pie. 4. Give to a worthwhile cause. Make a donation in the name of that friend or family member who has everything. Follow these tips for stressfree holiday giving.

2012: Ancient Skies, Ancient Mysteries

planetarium show exploring the Mayan doomsday prediction. Limited showing! Visit the Museum Store for all your holiday shopping. Join us over the holiday break open Dec. 24, 26-31

Educating Lancasters Children for over 25 years!

(All Ages!)
Tumbling Classes Exercise Classes for Adults

315C Carol Lynn Drive Willow Street, PA www.livesinbalancegym.com

2750 Weaver Road, Lancaster www.montlanc.com

Karen Rubenstein, Director ~ director@montlanc.com

717-560-0815 Ph 717-560-0817 Fax Ages 20 months thru 6th grade

400 College Ave., Lancaster 717.291.3941 www.northmuseum.org

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Musicians entertain the crowd gathered for annual Tuba Christmas and tree-lighting fesivities in downtown Lancaster late last month. Andy Blackburn photo

Derek Weber, 2 1/2, and mom Michelle Weber, of Denver, watch the holiday train display at Garden Spot Village in New Holland. The exhibit is open to the public 1:30 to 4 p.m. Saturdays through Dec. 29. Admission is free, but donations are accepted. For information, call 355-6000, or visit gardenspotvillage.org. Jeff Ruppenthal photo

Sadie Main, above, looks on as brother Gunnar Main tells Santa Claus what he would like for Christmas during a breakfast held Dec. 1 at the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and hosted by the Mayors Office of Special Events. Vinny Tennis photo At left: Maddie Baker, 3, talks with Santa Claus at the Lancaster Mariott at Penn Square on Dec. 1. A breafkast hosted by the Mayors Office of Special Events gave children an opportunity to give Santa some last-minute gift ideas. Vinny Tennis photo At right: Fifteen-month-old Malachi Petersheim, Gap, enjoys a cookie at Landis Valley Museum. Jeff Ruppenthal photo

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DAY TRIPPIN: TRAINS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Santa and his helper. For some people, the Santa train is a family tradition; we Trains are part of the holiday have some people who have been doing the train for 30 traditions of many families. years. We want people to not For train lovers of all ages, only visit the railroad, but to Strasburg is the place to be. also create memories, says There, trains are both life-size Ric Gochenaur, one of the rail and miniature. roads events coordinators. The Strasburg Rail Road, New this year, the Night which celebrated the 175th Before Christmas Train runs at anniversary of its railroad 7 p.m. on three Friday evenings charter in 2007 and the 50th during the holiday season. It anniversary as a tourist will make its last run on Dec. railroad in 2008, offers rides 14. Were always looking into yesteryear on its coal for something new, and this burning steam trains. On its fits well, comments events journey to Paradise, the train coordinator Kathy Gochenaur. passes through the picturesque This train recreates the farmland that showcases the excitement and anticipation of countys bounty. Christmas Eve. A reader dressed For the holidays, The in a Victorian nightshirt and Strasburg Railroad offers cap will read Clement Clarke Santas Paradise Express. The Moores classic poem, The special seasonal train ride continues Dec. 8, 9, 15 and 16. Night Before Christmas, as passengers enjoy cookies and This holiday tradition provides milk as the train rolls along. a fun, relaxing atmosphere for In the spirit of the season, kids families as they travel on a may come dressed in pajamas. 45-minute ride in an authentic This is an old-fashioned story vintage steam train. Santa, his reading. Theres a reader in helper, and musicians stroll every car, who will walk around from car-to-car, greeting and entertaining children of all ages. and read to each child, Kathy After the train ride, children are says. Ric adds that each car is treated to storybook readings of heated with an authentic coal holiday classics. Children ages stove and that adds to the 3 to 11 also receive a gift from By Rochelle A. Shenk Special Features Writer

charm of the event. Were taking a timeless poem from the past and bringing it to Strasburg Rail Road, where our trip to Paradise is a journey into a more relaxed era, he says. After the train ride, children are also treated to storybook readings of holiday classics aboard the caboose in the

station. Ric explains that the caboose remains in the station since traditionally on most rail lines, cabooses were on freight rather than passenger trains. Visitors of all ages can also enjoy a ride aboard the Tinsel Trolley, a self-propelled motor car. Children may also bring along a new pair of pjs to donate to Water Street Ministries families in need. Kathy notes that just by attending the Night Before Christmas Train, people will help men, women and children who are in need in our community as $5 from every ticket will support the work of Water Street Ministries. Additionally the Rail Road is also offering a Christmas Feast aboard the Dining Car during this event (for an additional charge). For further information about holiday activities at The Strasburg Rail Road, please visit www.strasburgrailroad. com. *** For those who enjoy miniature trains, The Choo

Choo Barns Holiday display is a must see. Choo Choo Barn, just a block away from the Strasburg Rail Road, celebrates the season with an enhanced holiday display through Dec. 31. Look for 51 hidden Santas and watch as Santas sleigh flies above the 1,700-square foot model train display. Enjoy the holiday decorations throughout the display including holiday lights and the snow-covered landscape. Plus, take a close look at the zoo animals in Traintown to see how theyre getting into the holiday spirit. Just like people decorate their home for the Holidays, we decorate the train display. We start decorating the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and have everything ready for Black Friday. Last year was our 50th anniversary, so weve been around for 51 years; thats why we have the 51 Santas. Searching for the Santas is also something fun for families as they go through the display,

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Family gatherings are synonymous with the holiday season. Even those families who have spread out far and wide often manage to come together at least once at the end of the year.

Preparing for holiday guests

schedule to prepare their homes for guests. The following are a few pointers for hosts who want to ensure everything is ready and accommodating for overnight guests. * Take inventory of household linens. Depending on how many guests youll be hosting, you may need to stock up on extra linens. If only one or two people will be staying overnight, you should be able to make due with what you have. However, if youll be hosting a second family for the holidays, whether its one night or a full week, then you will likely need to buy more linens, including bedding, pillows and blankets. Take inventory of what you have and make sure you have adequate bedding for each guest, as well as some extra bedding in case of emergency. * Discuss pet allergies. Holiday hosts who have pets should discuss pet allergies with potential

When families include members who dont live within driving distance of one another, those who arent hosting the holiday festivities must plan an overnight stay. Lodging costs can be considerable during the holiday season because hotels can quickly fill to capacity. Holiday hosts who want to go the extra mile can invite guests to forgo hotels and stay overnight at their homes, where guests can spend more time with hosts and wont have to worry about finding lodging they can afford. Though its a nice gesture to host overnight guests during the holiday season, its also one that requires a little work on the part of the hosts, who must take time ouf of the often hectic holiday

overnight guests well in advance of the season. If guests are allergic to your pets, then it might not be comfortable for them to stay overnight at your home. While most families would not want to shelter their pets on a holiday, doing so is an option but one that may not even be worth it. Pet hair and dander around the house might be enough to trigger an allergic attack even when the pet isnt in or around the

home, so sheltering the pet may not be a solution after all. Discuss this issue with prospective guests well in advance of the season so they have time to find affordable lodging in the event that any of them do have a pet allergy. * Stock up on toiletries. Toiletries are bound to run out if youre hosting guests for the holidays. Before guests arrive, stock up

on these items, including toilet and facial tissue, hand soap, bath soap, shampoo and conditioner, toothpaste and extra toothbrushes in case guests forgot to pack their own. These items have no expiration date, so even if you end up buying more than you need you can always use them down the road when guests have long since returned home. - continued from page 8

Millions of greeting cards are sent out each holiday season. Estimates suggest that 85 percent of the United States population, or roughly 250 million people, mails out greeting cards. That adds up to billions of cards going through the postal system -- and all in a relatively short period of time. Men and women who hope to send holiday greeting cards must purchase, prepare and mail the cards early enough so they are received prior to the holiday. It is never too early to begin greeting card preparation and assembly. The majority of cards are bought in boxed packages or groupings of photo cards. Gone are the days of hand-picking individual greeting cards for every recipient. This trend toward general-theme cards has streamlined the process and can help senders start their tasks earlier than ever before. Some people like to take advantage of post-holiday sales to stock up on greeting cards for the following year at a deep

Tips for getting greeting cards out on time

discount. This means they can write the cards out at their leisure and then simply toss them into the mailbox at the appropriate time. Much in the way people begin their holiday shopping or decorating right after the Thanksgiving turkey leftovers have been stored away, a good majority of people also begin their greeting card writing after Thanksgiving as well. Those who want their cards to arrive first will mail them within a few days of Thanksgiving. When sent domestically, it is safe to assume that cards mailed out up to 2 weeks before Christmas will arrive on time. After that point, you may be risking lateness, particularly for rural delivery addresses unless cards are sent priority. For those who need to mail cards internationally, sticking close to the end of November will ensure they arrive in a timely manner. People who want to make a statement and not have their greeting cards get lost in the crowd may intentionally mail them late and lean toward wishing health and prosperity for the new year, rather than sending a card tied to a specific holiday. This gives extra time for mailing and will set cards apart from the many others. Photo cards have grown in popularity, and people interested in having a professional photographer shoot their holiday card photos would be wise to make an appointment as early as possible. Popular photographers often start holiday photo shoots in October. Keep in mind that the photographs can take a while to be processed and arrive. For those who are on borrowed time, taking a photo with a personal camera and having prints made up at a pharmacy or retail store can save time. It is unlikely that professional photos taken in December can be printed and mailed and still arrive on time. Also, be sure to heed copyright laws concerning photographs. It may be illegal to scan an image from a

photographer or photo studio and have prints made without written permission. Postage is another thing that will have to be considered when mailing out cards. While many cards fall under the weight and size limits of a regular first class postage stamp, unusually shaped envelopes or heavy greeting cards may cost more. Rather than have them

returned, it is a good idea to have at least one card weighed at the post office to ensure the right amount of postage is affixed. Some cards will be packaged with envelopes that state Additional postage may be required right on the box. Greeting cards are an important component of the holiday season. Ensuring they arrive on time requires planning and sending

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Holiday decorating is a big part of the holiday season. Bins are taken out of the attic or garage, and decorations are once again given their opportunity to shine for several weeks before being packed away again. Among the many decorations families use to deck the halls are ornaments that were made by hand. This year creating homemade ornaments can be a crafty project that helps families make new holiday memories. Christmas tree ornaments come in all shapes and sizes and often tell the stories of holiday traditions. There are several different ways to create personalized, do-it-yourself ornaments and leave the cheap, easily broken ornaments behind.

Make-your-own holiday ornaments

Photo ornaments Fun photo ornaments showcase how a family has changed and grown over the years. Experiment with different ways to create these ornaments. You can glue a photo to a ceramic ornament and cover it with decoupage glaze to set it permanently. Try purchasing clear, glass ornaments, then remove the top of the ornament, which is usually spring-loaded, before slipping a photo inside and replacing the top. You also can laminate a photo, punch a hole in the top and affix a ribbon.

many holiday items that can be painted. Often the store will then fire the pieces after they are painted so that they are shiny and hardened for display. Those who want to do their painting at home can visit their local craft or hobby shop, where typically there are unfinished ceramic ornaments that can be painted with acrylic paints found right in the next aisle. A finishing coat of clear glaze will help protect the ornaments from year to year. Wood crafts Many of todays craft centers have expanded to include sections devoted to unfinished wood items. Everything from letters to animal cutouts to boxes and rocking horses can be purchased and finished. Turn keepsake boxes into painted and

Ceramic ornaments The popularity of paint-ityourself pottery has led to an increase in ceramic and crafts shops across the country. During the holiday season such shops offer

ribbon-adorned gift boxes. Stain a treasure chest that can be used to store reindeer snacks for Santas crew. Turn small decorative pieces into ornaments for the tree. Paint and affix wood initials onto stocking holders to identify to whom each stocking belongs. Crafty individuals also can turn plain wood plaques into signs with fun sayings, such as Park your sleigh here. Scavenge around the house Young children can use any

medium for making ornaments. Garlands made of macaroni or popcorn are traditional. Fabric scraps can be sewn and stuffed with potpourri for homemade scent satchels. Hand-drawn pictures can be made and laminated and hung on the tree. The only obstacle with regard to DIY ornaments is a limited imagination. Homemade items can add whimsy and a personal touch to the holiday season.

Few things are as eagerly anticipated by children as birthdays, holiday presents and, of course, snow days. When the meteorologist predicts several inches of snow, most kids go to sleep to visions of sledding, snowball fights, and building snow forts. Should the school district close for the day, cheers can be heard throughout the neighborhood. Although children may revel in the idea of days off from school due to snow, parents may not be as enthusiastic. Entertaining children when they typically should be in class can take creativity, especially when the weather is inhospitable. To alleviate bouts of cabin fever or prevent cases of hypothermia, there are many fun things parents can consider. And dont tell the children, but some are educational, too.

Keep the kids busy with snowy day activities

come to grab an easy meal. Artistic kids can sketch what they see when looking out the window. * Shovel a shallow path in the snow around the yard to create a snow maze. Build snow blinds, behind which kids can hide. * Gather winter nature items, like pine cones and icicles. Look for frozen fossils. * Gather a clean patch of snow and pour maple syrup onto it. Allow to harden and then enjoy homemade maple candies.

* Use spray bottles or squirt bottles filled with water and food coloring to draw masterpieces in the snow.

* Brew a thermos full of hot chocolate and go sit out with the * Grab skates and head to an ice neighbors who are probably going a rink or solid (and safe) pond. bit stir crazy as well. * Decorate an outdoor tree with * Check in on elderly friends streamers and popcorn garland. and neighbors and offer to shovel their driveways and walkways, if * If its too chilly for a picnic in necessary. the snow, place a blanket on the family room floor and enjoy an * Pretend you are on a North Pole indoor picnic. expedition and hike through the * Put out bird seed or a suet block neighborhood in a quest to reach the - continued on page 10 and feed the neighborhood birds. summit of a mountain or to find a Compare the different species that hidden treasure.

* Explore and look for winter plants and other foliage that survive the chill.

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Holding down the fort Whos the turkey?

On Sunday, I worked in my office on a column about Notre Dames magical season when World War III broke out. The column would have explained how Notre Dame football ranks as highly among Irish Catholics as any beliefs, values and traditions of the family culture. Watching games with my father, uncles, brothers, sister, nephews, nieces, and cousins is a family tradition that Ive past on to my kids. But as I typed, Maggies scream from our deck sent off red flags and visions of a trip to the emergency room. My office beneath the kitchen sounded like a battleground as the ceiling shook from pounding foot stomping and more chaotic screaming. It all started when Michael & Maggie, M&M, agreed to share walking duties for Tanner, owned by our neighbors away on a hunting trip. Unlike Maggie, Michael isnt fond of dogs but will play nice if theres money to be made splitting walking duties. Michaels day started fantastically with an invite to Laser Quest with his good buddy Logan. Like many 9-year-olds, Mike fights and delays chores until hes commanded. So, I was prepared to play my trump card No Laser Quest if you dont get moving. But Michael put on his shoes and jacket and obediently headed to Tanners den on the frigid early morning. We watched through the window his attempt to collar Tanner but the little butterball resisted and jumped free. Its comical to watch Michaels futility in hounding a hound. Its even funnier knowing Tanner, a crafty veteran, realized hed reversed roles and could dictate human behavior. Mike reminded me of a New York City cab driver on a busy street: bursting fast, stopping every couple of feet while constantly yelling. Tanner moved just in time to thwart Michaels every advance. Moments after I descended back to my office, my Golden Retriever Skittles realized Tanner was having all the fun. Skittles and Michael reside at the bottom of our familys food chain and torment each other whenever possible. Maggie opened the sliding glass door to offer Michael advice on taming Tanner when Skittles bolted. Her screams served as cheers to Skittles, whose 40-yard dash ended with a fantastic open-field tackle of both Michael and Tanner. M&M were furious, red-faced

Lanc Dad
and determined to make Skittles pay. Maggie wearing only socks ran after Skittles who danced, jumped and mocked his pursuers. My office ceiling exploded again as my wife Julie got involved, running to the glass doors to yell at Skittles who had run 70 yards into the back field. I suggested she coax Skittles with turkey leftover from the Thanksgiving get-together with grandma in Virginia Beach. The boy cant resist dark poultry scraps. I returned to my office as Julie rifled through the refrigerator. The quiet lasted about 15 minutes when M&M entered though the garage with verbal pitchforks ready to lynch Skittles. Julie had even waved a rolled up newspaper at a defiant Skittles who led them on a chase involving a third dog. I opened the office door Skittles ran under my desk for cover and found that Julie had attempted to entice Skittles with leftover pizza. Big mistake, I said, You gotta use turkey! I couldnt FIND the turkey, she scoffed. Things finally calmed down. Mike went to laser tag and Maggie complained that my car smelled when we drove to her 1 p.m. basketball game at Lancaster Catholic. I didnt smell a thing until the ride home and suggested Maggie ought to shower immediately. Once at home I reached in the backseat for the jacket I wore while running Skittle at the park a few day before. Thats when I discovered the source of the smell. Inside the pouch of my blue pullover was a bag of warm, pungent, leftover, Thanksgiving turkey.

Patrick Burns Special Features Writer

ferns and wintergreen. The Gardens Education Center has been transformed into Santas Workshop where Hershey Gardens has introduced a new family event, children can create take-home crafts, including reindeer food. Santas Secret Garden, for Families can visit with Santa the holiday season. An array at the heart-shaped fountain in of childrens activities will The Childrens Garden, where link a traditional Christmas celebration with a message that he will present each child with shares the importance of taking a sapling Norway spruce tree care of each other and the green to take home. Guests may also visit with Mrs. Claus, listen to earth. Santas Secret Garden music and warm up by a fire. will be held Dec. 8, 14 and 15 Cookies and hot chocolate will from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. be available for purchase. During this event, families The cost for Santas Secret will be greeted by Santas elves Garden is included in general as they travel along a path of admission; regular (ages 13 to twinkling lights to discover 61) at $10, seniors (ages 62 and Santa and his secret winter older) at $9, juniors (ages 3 to garden. Visitors can explore 12) at $7, and children ages 2 Santas Greenhouse, where and younger are free. theyll see some of the plants For more information about that Santa and Mrs. Claus Hershey Gardens, visit www. cultivate during the winter season. Plants include flowering HersheyGardens.org or call 717-534-3492. kale, cabbage, and perennials, such as evergreen Christmas

By Rochelle A. Shenk Special Features Writer

Discover Santas Secret Garden

Preparing for holiday guests

- continued from page 8

* Clear the house of clutter. Clutter can make a home seem even more crowded when guests are staying overnight. Clutter can accumulate anywhere in the house, from bathrooms to a living room to the kitchen. When hosting guests for the holidays, you will need all the space you can get, so clear the house of as much clutter as possible. Put all toys away and clear the common areas of items like shoes and clothing that can make a space seem more cramped.

In addition, clear the dining room table of any items that arent needed at mealtime and choose festive centerpieces that dont take up much space. * Dont be caught off guard by a storm. If guests will be staying multiple nights, its safe to assume everyone, hosts and guests included, will want to get out of the house, be it to enjoy local holiday celebrations or simply to avoid cabin fever by getting some fresh air. But the holiday season gets its fair share of inclement weather, giving kids free reign over the ingredients. * Play with toy trucks and cars in the snow. * Engage in a snowball fight. * Find the tallest hill in the area and test your bravery on a sled. * Chase the dog around the backyard. Dogs often like to play in the snow, too. Throw snowballs (gently) for the dog to catch. * Sit in sunny windows and read

including snowstorms. Hosts should not be caught off guard by a snowstorm, stocking up on items like a snow shovel, a snow blower and salt or a de-icing product for walkways and driveways before guests arrive. This will ensure everyone wont feel trapped inside the house should a storm arrive unexpectedly. Hosting guests for the holidays is no small task. But hosts who prepare in advance can ensure everyone makes the most of their time together. HL12C766 books silently or to the group. * Make sock puppets and put on a show. * Catch up on beauty sleep by taking a nap under a warm quilt. * Bake a batch of brownies or cookies. Snow days dont have to be restless mornings and afternoons spent locked indoors. There are many different and fun ways to pass the hours.

Snowy day activities

* Rent a movie and cuddle on the couch under blankets. * Have a marathon video game battle. * Put on some tunes and dance around the house. * Play a classic game, such as Twister or Monopoly. * Take out modeling clay or dough and create different play figures or ornaments. * Whip up a hearty meal together,

Lancaster, Pa

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DECEMBER8,201211

The (K) Clues are for Kids

Created by Timothy E. Parker February 13, 2012

MEGAN CONKLIN

TERRY EVEARITT

Certied Orthopedic Manual Therapist with Hartz Physical Therapy.

Fitness, injury prevention and rehabilitation

Certied College Planner with College Funding Advisors, Inc.

College nancial planning, nancial aid, and other college nancing

DR. PIA FENIMORE

Pediatrician with Lancaster Pediatrics.

Pediatric Health

Questions?
Weve got answers!
DR. MARIA MELITON

Ask an Expert on LancMoms.com

DR. PIA FENIMORE, JOHN HOLTZAPPLE Pediatrician with Safe KidsPediatric health Lancaster Pediatrics Pediatric Dentist with Certied Car Seat Technician with M2 Dentistry for KIRSTEN Stadel Volvo. FREITAG MURRAY, Children & Teens, LLC.

ACROSS 1. (K) Mix batter 5. (K) Type of tree 8. (K) ___-bodied seaman 12. (K) Bugs Bunny is one 13. A solid caustic 14. Glance impolitely 15. (K) Important theater sign 16. Chapter in history 17. (K) Supermans lady friend, Lois 18. Not straightforward or candid 21. Equine vote? 22. (K) Like the desert 23. Angry and impatient (2 words) 26. (K) Barnyard biddy 27. Hairy Himalayan 30. Chills and fever 31. (K) Cookie

container 32. (K) Present 33. (K) Bambis mom 34. Completed 35. Like mosquitoes 36. (K) Acrobats safeguard 37. Hitchhiking seed 38. What a straight line goes from (3 words) 44. Country bumpkin 45. Be faulty? 46. (K) It can be good, bad or bright 47. With a cast of thousands 48. (K) Train for a marathon 49. Chowder choice 50. (K) January 2, for one 51. Envision 52. All dried up

DOWN 1. (K) Building for tools 2. (K) Cab 3. Tennessee state flower 4. Entourage 5. Sorrowful poem 6. Guitars early relative 7. Take a long route 8. Brass or bronze, e.g. 9. (K) Boyfriend 10. (K) Word with telephoto or zoom 11. (K) ... ___ he rode out of sight ... 19. (K)Short sleep 20. Ode on a Grecian ___ 23. Short-lived craze 24. (K) Teamwork spoiler 25. With all ___

respect ... 26. (K) Held for a time 27. (K) Affirmative! 28. (K) Noahs craft 29. (K) Door unlocker 31. Nerves 32. Battlefield bravery 34. (K) Fox home 35. (K) Young seal 36. (K) Sister of a nephew 37. Wind-___ (carried by a breeze) 38. Butterfly stage 39. Sad item, for short 40. (K) Not false 41. (K) Not in operation 42. (K) Close by 43. (K) Like a broken horse 44. (K) Valentines Day color

KIRSTEN FREITAG-MURRAY

Can you find the answer to this riddle within the solved puzzle?

Strengthening Families Program: For Parents and

Youth 10-14 Facilitator and

Get it all together?

PUZZLE ANSWERS

Parenting DevelopmentPediatric Dental Health Coordinator Proper car seat selection, Trainer (Iowa State) with Compass Mark, Inc. installation and Dr. Pia Fenimore Social, relational and/or Social, relational and/or behavioral issues

harness placement

behavioral issues

Dr.

QUESTION: CONKLIN, MEGAN

DR. MARIA MELITON, Pediatric Dentist with M2 Dentistry for Children & Teens, LLC Maria Pediatric dental health Meliton,

Megan Conklin,ten Freitag Murray Kirs

My question is about menisci. Ive read that damage often occurs lito n Dr. Ma ria Meyou go from squatting to when standing and the menisci dont move back into place, resulting in being crushed. But why didnt they get back to their Megan Conklin proper places? Is there something inherently wrong with the knee joint that didnt allow them to get back to place quickly enough?Evearittis it just a freak thing? Or
Ter ry

My ve-year-oldOrthopedic Manual Therapist still sucks her Certied thumb atwith HARTZ Physical Therapy night. Its not throughout sleep; just when she has her and Fitness, injury prevention rehabilitation blankie in-hand. Is it true that thumb-sucking will lead to braces? TERRY EVEARITT, Should we try toCollege towards College Certied work Planner with Funding Advisors, Inc. ending it? College nancial planning, nancial aid,
and other college nancing Submit your questions today at LancMoms.com! Just click on our Ask an Expert feature and choose your expert. Its simple and easy. Our experts will respond to several questions a week so check back daily to see your answer.

QUESTION:

2012 Universal Uclick www.universaluclick.com

Produced by Lancaster Newspapers, Inc.

Riddle answer:

1-A) Stir

12 DECEMBER8,2012

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Area artist creates a garden of family delights

look, while the heart lends a country touch. This piece can commemorate weddings, anniversaries, birthdays or other special occasions, and can be Many people know Mary duplicated to present to other Beth Shenk as one of the owners of Flowers by Paulette. family members as well. She not only touches the lives A number of years ago my of many people through that children gave me a book about avenue, but shes also an artist the meaning flowers. That gave who uses her talents to create me the idea to take it a step unique pieces with a family further and create the family focus. bouquet as a fun alternative to the traditional family tree, One of the items she Mary Beth explains. creates is the family bouquet an original watercolor Another family-centered interpretation of a family tree. creation is a customized baby Each person in the family tree plaque. It includes the babys is represented by a flower that name and birth information coordinates with his or her birth such as date, weight, height and month; for example, December hospital where he or she was is holly, June is a rose, and May born. I also work in elements is lily of the valley. The persons that are special to the family name is inscribed around the such as a depiction of their flower, and date of birth may home or a special theme, she also be included. says. The bouquet can be done Mary Beth also is a in different shapes such as calligrapher. She says that a heart or circle. She says calligraphy is ideal for that the circle gives the piece frameable items, such as poetry, more of a contemporary quotes, certificates, awards, titles on mattes, family trees, and name plates. Calligraphy adds a special touch to nearly anything. Ive not only done invitations and certificates, but Ive done things such as a poem a grandmother had written for her granddaughter or a favorite saying that someone wanted to present as a gift, she comments. Mary Beth is working on a childrens book based on a story she used to tell to her children. The book By Rochelle A. Shenk Special Features Writer

is tentatively entitled The Purple Kingdom. Shes also a partner with artist Steve Wilson in Masterpiece Murals. Their 20-year collaboration has produced a variety of custom murals. We do a lot of murals for childrens rooms theyre often fun and playful and depict an interest or hobby of the child. Irregardless of where the mural will be located, its a custom piece we work closely with the client to create something to accent their area, she explains. Adding that creative flair can spice up home dcor or create a gift that will be treasured and perhaps become a family keepsake.