December 2012 baystateparent Magazine

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Voted Best Parenting Publication in North America Voted Best Parenting Publication in North America 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008 , 2010 and 20122004, 2006, 2007, 2008 , 2010 and 2012

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. 2012baystateparent

Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Families Since 1996For Families Since 1996

ONE FAMILY’S DOUBLEONE FAMILY’S DOUBLEADOPTION BLESSINGADOPTION BLESSING

TRAVELING TRAVELING WITH KIDSWITH KIDSRead Our Read Our Flight PlanFlight Plan

BSP MOM ROCKS BSP MOM ROCKS ANDAND PIROUETTES PIROUETTES

Celebrating Celebrating thethe Holidays HolidaysJOY GIVES BACKJOY GIVES BACK

CRE8 HOLIDAY GIFTSCRE8 HOLIDAY GIFTSVisit This One Of A KindVisit This One Of A KindDo It Yourself StudioDo It Yourself Studio

MEET OUR MEET OUR NOT SO NOT SO WELCOME GUEST!WELCOME GUEST!

2 DECEMBER2012

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27

THURSDAY - SUNDAYJANUARY 24 - 27

BAYSTATEPARENT 3

Cornerstone AcademyEducating all learners in grades K-6

An elementary preparatory school that celebrates

the individual.

Educating Your Child for Life

Tours January 8th & 22nd at 9:00 a.m. Call to reserve your spot!

5 Oak Avenue • Northboro, MA 01532 • 508-351-9976www.cornerstoneacademy.org

• Offering Transitional Kindergarten and full day Kindergarten through Grade 6th curriculum.

• Small classes, individual attention.

• Solid academic foundation complemented by art, Spanish, music and physical fitness.

• Highly qualified faculty trained to adapt curriculum to your child’s ability. • Intellectually enriching environment.

• State of the art technology utilized in all classrooms.

4 DECEMBER2012

Welcoming New Patients … in Worcester

UMass Memorial Medical Group and the Department of Obstetrics and

Gynecology of UMass Memorial Medical Center are proud to welcome two new

maternal-fetal medicine physicians who specialize in high-risk pregnancy.

Scan the QR code tolearn more aboutDr. Hoffman Sage

Dr. Yael Hoffman Sage Dr. David Kanter

Scan the QR code tolearn more about

Dr. Kanter

Yael Hoffman Sage, MD, MPH, has a special interest in pregnancy loss,obstetric ultrasound, prenatal diagnosis, chorionic villus sampling and

multiple gestation. She is fluent in Spanish and Hebrew.

David Kanter, MD, has a special interest in prior term birth, recurrentpregnancy loss, chronic Villus sampling, diabetes, hypertensive disorders

of pregnancy, maternal cardiac disease and more.

To schedule an appointment, call: 508-334-0550

UMass Memorial Medical CenterMemorial Campus

119 Belmont Street, Worcester, MA

UMassMemorialMedical GroupA Member of UMass Memorial Health Care

physicians.umassmemorial.org

BAYSTATEPARENT 5

Bring your newborn to one of our fun-filled classes. Explore musical play,

child-friendly instruments, songbooks, and CDs that you use at home. And find out how nurturing our research-based music

and movement program can be.

NURTURE HIS INNER MUSICIAN.

NURTURING, BONDING, AND LOVING MOMENTS.

JUST ADD baby.

Singing, dancing, and making music with your new baby is a wonderful bonding experience that also stimulates learning.

Join us for a free class to experience this award-winning program firsthand and discover the pleasure and developmental benefits

of Music Together. Call today to schedule your visit!

Free triAL cLAss

For classes in Eastern/Central MA: www.musictogether.com/BSP

workExciting research opportunity

for pregnant women!Be part of a new study todetermine if a behavioraldiet intervention can reduce excess weight gain in pregnancy.

Study requirements and benefits Healthy, overweight or obese, age 18-45 First trimester of pregnancy Compensation provided Free health assessments and potential for

free diet advice, menus, food samples

HNRCA Tufts University711 Washington St.Boston, MA 02111

Phone: 617-556-3033 • Email: [email protected] or e-mail today for more information.

6 DECEMBER2012

TLC Christian Preschool

Call 508-753-2989 ext.17 for additional information and to schedule a facility tour.

8am-noon or 8am-5pm

• Nurturing teachers

• Hands-on curriculum

• Learning through play

• Faith-based program

Conveniently located across from the Worcester Art Museum73 Lancaster Street, Worcester, MA 01609

www.trinityworc.org/preschool

Enrollment for 2013 begins soon

7 8 9

10

12

13 13141636 374044

in every issue

JANUARYFEBRUARY

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our special guest

table the of the homeD E C E M B E R 2 0 1 2 • V O L U M E 1 7 • N U M B E R 8

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very special peopleJOY GIVES BACK TO THE WORLD

DIY HOLIDAY GIFTS

CRE8: SO MUCH MORE THAN A GIFT SHOP

THE NOT SO WELCOME GUEST FLYING WITH THE FAMILY: Success Comes With A Flight Plan

EDUCATION & TECHNOLOGY

WOMEN’S HEALTH & THINK SPRING

WELCOME

GUESTBOOK

DIRTY LAUNDRY

LOVE MORE, FIGHT LESS

FINALLY FOREVERCIRCLE OF FRIENDS

OCTOBER’S CHILD

JUNK DRAWERS

OH THE PLACES YOU’LL GO

LET’S ROLL: La Salette Shrine, Attleboro

CAPTURED

MOM’S ROCK: Jennifer Agbay

JUST AROUND THE CORNER

A Shrewsbury mom shares her jewelry with celebrities at the Emmy Awards.

A mishap with paperwork gives one family the gift of two boys to adopt.

These handmade gifts are great for teachers, grandmothers and anyone special for the holidays.

22

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Voted Best Parenting Publication in North America 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2012

BAYSTATEPARENT 7

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photographersMICHELLE CARRSTEVEN KINGSTEPHANIE PISCITELLI

MEET THE COVER MODEL

Grayson PiscitelliGrayson PiscitelliAGE 6, BRIDGEWATER

When I was a little kid, Christmas was my favorite time of year. It was a time of anticipation. I’d write my wish list to Santa, hope and wish that I was good enough for Santa to bring me what doll or toy I wanted. On Christmas Eve night, I’d look to the sky hoping to catch a glimpse of Santa’s sleigh. There was a magic to Christmas that filled my heart with joy. And on Christmas morning, my hoping and wishing led to opening presents with my family and spending time playing with toys and traveling to my grandparents’ houses to share in their holiday celebrations. There was even a time when I was about 6 or 7 when my older brother used to dress up as Santa Claus in clothing that I had in my closet (a fur hat for a beard and a red jacket, etc.). He was trying to keep the magic alive for me, even though he didn’t believe anymore. As I grew up, I began to understand and appreciate the true meaning of the holiday season – the magic of the season went from

PAULA MONETTE ETHIERKATHERINE JACANTEMARYJO KURTZMANDY MULLIEZLAURIE PUHNSTEPHEN RICH

believing in a man in a red suit who brought presents to believing that there’s a part of Santa in each of our hearts. Then my first son was born. All of a sudden, I thought, now the magic I had as a child would come back – the joy of believing in Santa, the anticipation of what he’ll open and the true meaning of the holidays will come through for me again. The opposite happened. I spent a lot of my time stressing out about making homemade holiday cards, baking cookies and making the “perfect” holidays for both of my sons, now 5 and 8. I’d wait in long lines with my husband on Black Friday in the hopes of getting the “it” gift of the year for the best price. I’d get frustrated pulling out the holiday decorations or trying to find a spot to park at the mall during the holiday time. Through the last eight years of being a mom, I was stressed, tired and exhausted from all the preparations and trying to make the holiday perfect. I had lost the true meaning of the holidays. I think the clincher happened on Christmas morning last year when my husband turned to me and simply said, “You got them too much.” That’s usually a tough blow to take, especially when I had done the majority of the planning and shopping and then I saw what he saw, the kids were only playing with one or two of the toys they had gotten. As we were putting the fall decorations away this year, my youngest son found a red and white Santa hat. As we were hanging out after dinner, he took the hat, climbed onto one of our chairs in the family room and put two chairs in front of him. He started yelling, “On Dasher, On Rudolph.” Then he stopped, looked around the room and said, “Where’s my sack?” He grabbed a “sack,” also known as a recycled shopping bag and packed up his toys and put it on his sleigh. There it was….right in front of me – the simple magic of the holidays. Derek was mimicking everything that Santa represented – the giving of the holiday.

I made some resolutions right there on the spot – I’m not going to fight the crowds on Black Friday or go shopping at a mall for gifts. I’m going to give gifts to people that they really need and can enjoy. I’m also going to make sure that at some point in December, my kids and I are going to give back to someone or an organization in the community. One great place to find opportunities to volunteer throughout the year is through CatchingJoy.org, a non-profit organization run by Joy Surprenant, of Newton, who I interviewed for this holiday issue. Joy coordinates events in Massachusetts for children and their families to volunteer and donate. This month, she coordinates a Nutcracker and Mrs. Claus tea at the Ritz Carlton in Boston, where children can make ornaments that will be donated (along with an artificial tree) to local organizations like the Italian Home for Children. We also feature a peaceful and magical place to visit in our Let’s Roll column, La Salette Shrine in Attleboro. The Christmas light display is a great family evening trip – it’s been a local tradition for almost 60 years. And our staff also had an early visit from the Elf on the Shelf, but he was a bit mischievous, so be careful if he visits your home this holiday season – he might get into some trouble. No matter what you celebrate, I hope you find the magic in the holidays and have a wonderful time with family and friends. Happy Holidays!

Jennifer LucarelliEditor

proofreaderBRYAN ETHIER

WelcomeWelcome

Shared by his mother, Stephanie Piscitelli, photographer.

Share a favorite Christmas memory:My favorite Christmas was when I was 3 years old and I got my very first bone and arrow (bow & arrow). What’s one of your Christmas wishes for this year?There’s this car thing shooter, you lock the car and you press the button and it

shoots out at 200,000 miles per hour. What is your favorite Christmas song?Um, can I just make one up? (No) “Um, Jingle Bells.” Since your mom is a photographer, what is it like having her take photos of you? Do you love it?Yeah, it looks cool, ya know why? I like when she says “look into the lens” you can see some really nice pictures. www.bellinipics.com

account executiveNELLIE LIMA [email protected]

illustratorsARIELA KRISTANTINA

8 DECEMBER2012

The Nutcracker. Boston Opera House, 539 Washington St., Boston. New England’s #1 holiday tradition, Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker, returns to the stage with exquisite new sets and costumes by award-winning designer Robert Perdziola. This world premiere production will encompass the beauty and magic of the traditional Nutcracker story with revised scenes and choreography by Mikko Nissinen. Tickets start at $35. Shows at 1 & 7:30 p.m. through Dec. 24. boxoffi ce.bostonballet.org.

Merry Nutcracker Ballet and Victorian Tea. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum, 104 Walker St., Lenox. Classical ballet highlights and victorian tea party for the Christmas holiday will take place at Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum on Sunday, December 2 at 4:00 p.m. Young dancers from the American Dance Institute under the direction of Sharon MacDonald will perform in the Great Hall of the historic Lenox mansion. The tea will follow the ballet performance. Admission is $20 NM; $18M; $7C and free to children 4 or younger. Reservations are highly recommended for this popular annual program. To make reservations, please call Ventfort Hall at 413-637-3206. gildeage.org.

Nutcracker & Sweets. Wistariahurst Museum, 238 Cabot St., Holyoke. Wistariahurst welcomes back students of the Massachusetts Academy of Ballet and members of the Ballet Educational Training Association who will perform the magical Nutcracker in the historical setting of the Music Room. Through

narration and dance, the story will be told as it may have been in Holyoke in the 1890’s. A reception of delectable sweets will follow each performance. Tickets are $10; children 8 and under seated on the fl oor are $1. Advance reservations are necessary; seating is limited as performances sell out. 7 p.m. wistariahurst.org.

The Nutcracker. Keiter Center for Performing Arts, 12 Highland St., Natick. See some of the country’s most talented young dancers perform this holiday favorite...without driving into Boston! Tickets start at $18. walnuthillarts.org.

The Nutcracker. Jose Mateo Ballet Theatre at The Sanctuary Theatre, 400 Harvard St., Cambridge. Up-close, thrilling, inspiring and affordable, our performances create memories that will last a lifetime. Tickets starting at $38. ballettheatre.org.

Anthony Williams’ Urban Nutcracker. John Hancock Hall, 180 Berkeley St., Boston. Urban Nutcracker presents a multicultural interpretation of the dance classic, performed by professional dancers and a cast refl ective of the rich diversity & promise of Boston’s youth. Urban Nutcracker follows the storyline of the 19th century fairy tale fusing ballet, swing, hip hop, fl amenco and urban tap with the classical score of Tchaikovsky and the pulsating beat of Ellington. Tickets start at $20. urbannutcrackerboston.com.

The NutcrackerThe Nutcracker

The Nutcracker is being performed around Massachusetts throughout the holiday season. Check out our complete listing of performances.

phot

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GUESTBOOK On behalf of the girls and young women that we serve at Girls Incorporated of Worcester, I want to extend my sincere thanks for your generous contribution of four tickets to KIDS Fest. We greatly appreciate your generous support of Girls Incorporated of Worcester and value your confidence in our organization and the programs we provide. Thanks to your generosity and commitment to making a difference in the lives of the families we serve, so we can continue to inspire all the girls to be strong, smart and bold. Best wishes from all of us at Girls Incorporated and thank you again for your continued support.

Victoria WatermanChief Executive Officer

Girls Incorporated, Worcester

Thank you for the tickets to the Day Out with Thomas at Edaville. Sami and I decided to go with my sister and her 11-year-old daughter, Alexia. We all had a blast. We had never been to Edaville before, and we had the most amazing time. The girls loved the train ride and all the amusement rides. The staff was nice and friendly. I was amazed at how clean they keep that place. Thank you for giving us this opportunity that we otherwise would not be able to afford. By the way, the kids read books on the trip there and back.

Maryann DeCell

A special thanks to Edaville in Carver for donating the tickets to the Day Out with Thomas. The DeCell Family was among the winners in November that won a family four-pack of tickets after submitting tips on traveling with kids.

December at LastDecember at Lastby cathy mealey

When can we bake cookies? Take a photo for our card?Can we wrap some presents now and decorate the yard?

Let’s drive slowly through our town and “OOH!” at all the lights,Then hang an Advent Calendar to count down all the nights.

We’ll sing along with favorite songs from holiday CDs,Plan a snowball fight and smell the fresh-cut balsam trees.

With ooey gooey frosting, build a house with gingerbread.Pull out mittens, hats and scarves and pile onto the sled.

We’ll choose some perfect presents to drop off at Toys for Tots,And write to Santa, telling him our secret dreams and thoughts.

Me make the season special? I don’t wish to be contrary.The kids’ enthusiasm always makes our season merry!

A special thanks to Purity Springs Resort of Madison, NH for donating a family four-pack of tickets to the Polar Express and a weekend getaway

at their resort. Cathy Mealey submitted the above poem and won the tickets after being asked how she makes her holiday magical for her family.

Check out baystateparent.com/giveaways for more giveaways.Editor’s Note: Submitted letters to the editor should include your

name, email address, phone number and town. Please email letters to [email protected].

BAYSTATEPARENT 9

I ended up in a bit of a pinch because my “know it all son” has been begging me to play the saxophone. I think before I go on with the story I must make some changes to my son’s name. For the past year I’ve been calling him the “know it all son,” and it’s just not capturing his essence any more. From this sentence forward he’ll be known as ‘the Condescending Attorney.’ So anyway, we’re driving home. I just finished coaching their soccer practice, and my son sends me into crisis mode. As I’m driving, he starts telling me how this is the ONLY night to pick up the saxophone. Gotta do it Daddy Mommy said. Gotta do it Dad. Dad Daaaad. Mum said. So to end the pain (because I know he won’t stop begging), I changed over to the two-handed grip on the steering wheel, and I took that pick-up truck filled with smelly soccer cleats, steamed up windows, a huge bag of size 4 soccer balls and double buckled kids and made an illegal U-turn, and we headed over to the school to see about this saxophone. We get there. I’m in soccer cleats clinking down the hallway, and I’m soaking wet. My kids, because I’m a bad parent, are running ahead like wild wet dogs wearing muddy South Shore Sting Ray shirts and I

don’t care. I clink into the room and unfortunately it’s obvious that I’m related to all the loud kids who arrived five seconds before me because we’re all in cleats. My kids immediately join the small gathering of kids fawning over instruments. I’ve also noticed some overdressed parents filling out paperwork while they’re getting info. So I eavesdrop a bit to catch what’s going on. I quickly gather this guy is the instrument ‘renter.’ Automatically, I go into ‘Judgemental Mode’ and label/judge the guy running this ‘rental’ thing. The guy smokes, I’m sure because he’s got the gold necklace and the matching gold bracelet, black fake leather slip on shoes with some useless fake gold buckles, no tie, button-up shirt unbuttoned too far. The guy looked like he got ‘time machined’ in from a mid-70’s game show (only missing one of those skinny microphones). Then ‘game show guy’ looks at me and asks for credit application, two forms of ID, a check and a credit card. Now I’m starting to mentally check out, all I have is a coach’s whistle around my neck, and my little brain is thinking about all the things I have to do (Head voice: it’s 7:30 p.m., I still have to make an unhealthy dinner, clean up, do homework—Shut up).

DIRTYLAUNDRY

with Stephen Richwith Stephen Rich

michelle carr

NO SAX FOR YOU

I snap to, and I do what any dad would do, I ignore my other three kids who are pretending they’re in a video using a viola as an electric guitar, and I focus on my ‘Condescending Attorney’ who has NEVER EVER started and finished anything, except a happy meal with apple dippers. I said, ‘Listen my man, I don’t want to do this, but you have a long history of begging me to sign you up for things, and then it just becomes another thing on the list that I gotta MAKE you do like…soccer, Cub Scouts, basketball, karate, baseball, flag football, skating lessons. Quite frankly, I would rather repaint our house with a Qtip then have you sign up for something else.” And he’s looking down, and I can tell he’s getting ready to fight me with all the ‘Yea, but Dad…my cleats were too tight…but Dad, the hockey rink was cold…I didn’t know Cub Scouts had cubs, I wanted to be a Boy Scout.’ And I know he’s winding up, I see him rocking back and forth like Rain Man, cooking up his defense!! But I don’t have time for that because my other kids have moved on from the video shoot with the viola and are now, picture this; one up on a chair jumping as the other two are trying to hit his shin guards with drum sticks, so before someone gets concussed I know I have to wrap this up fast with the Condescending Attorney. So for my closing statement, I say ‘And besides, the saxophone is basically a lost art, it’s like Latin, or beepers or even Atari—sure they were cool back in the day! But no one plays the sax any more, look at all the greats now a days like Ke$ha, Justin Timberlake, Britney.”

And I noticed I was getting somewhere because he stopped swaying side to side, this means he’s not going to refute! So I throw my arm around him, motion to the other kids to put the weapons down, and I continue “Yeah, no sax for them-they make it on a computer now.” So days pass, and the thing about the ‘Condescending Attorney’ is he does not give up. He’s coming up with all types of offers for how I can buy a sax on eBay…then he’s promising to give me a deposit, which he can get back if he plays for one year...and I’m going crazy with all the offers every 8 seconds. And then it happened, I got a letter from God. In the mail that very day was a letter from the school, which said he had two subjects that had bad grades. I can say this, I have never done a fist pump for bad grades! But it felt really good (Looks like all those video games finally paid off). And with a ridiculously large smile on my face, I handed the letter over to him and when he was done reading I whispered my closing statement: “No sax for you.”

Dirty Laundry columnist Stephen Rich is a Plymouth father of four. This monthly humor column is about day-to-day life raising kids.

Basically it’s about not being afraid to air out the “dirty laundry” and say it like it is, making

the rest of us not feel so alone.

To book comedian Stephen Rich, contact Dawn Christensen at Loretta LaRoche Productions:

[email protected] or 508-746-3998, x15.

a2+b2=c2

623 Chandler Street, Worcester, MA • Tel: 508-797-5050Fax: 508-797-5051 • www.theknowledgequest.com

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10 DECEMBER2012

laurie puhnlaurie puhnBY

THE GOODKARMA

MARRIAGE

FIGHTLESS...LOVEMORE

Would you marry the same person all over again? I hope so. But, if you have to stop to think about your answer to that question, then here are some things you can do today to elicit a more immediate positive response. The first thing to do is to consciously choose the right words and actions to infuse your relationship with mutual respect, appreciation, companionship and intimacy. The second action to take, which is often overlooked, is to uphold the “right” state of mind. By doing this, you will build and maintain love in your life because the right state of mind produces the spirit of good karma to nourish your relationship.

My Spirit of Good Karma

One night a while ago, I had the opportunity to add good karma to my marriage. My husband was out at a fundraiser at a beer garden. He was certainly enjoying himself. I was at home with our two kids. Our 3-year-old son, Blake, had recently developed a rash on his behind, and although it was healing, it was very itchy. All of a sudden, Blake scratched it repetitively while in the bathroom by himself. It started bleeding, a lot. He cried for me to come in. At first I tried to figure out if it was internal or external blood. It was external, but even so, Blake was in pain and bleeding. I struggled with what to put on the cuts that were on the skin that rubs together. I tried a bunch of things as I also worked to prevent Blake from scratching more. He was crying. I was very upset. But my husband wasn’t because he was out eating and drinking with the guys unaware of the turmoil at home. In the midst of this, it was time to put my baby daughter Emma to bed. I bathed and fed her, and buckled her into the swing. I returned to Blake who had settled down and fallen asleep on the couch. The episode was exhausting and stressful for him and me. I finished up Emma’s bedtime and breathed a sigh of relief. What now? Do I call my husband to tell him what happened? Do I ask him to come home now thinking that Blake might wake up crying and in pain? If he doesn’t pick up his cell phone, do I leave a voicemail telling him to call me

immediately because it is important? Do I give him the news that would instantly turn his night around from good to bad? Do I allow my stress to give me an excuse to yell at him for not being home when I needed him most? What choice did I make? My heart and spirit of good karma took control and told me the right answers to these questions: “Leave him be. Let him enjoy himself. He is a good father and there is nothing he can do now to improve the situation.” Certainly, I could handle a few more hours until he came home. I chose to view his absence that night as a reminder of his importance to our family and the love and support his presence gives me. So, the next morning I told him what happened and how his absence made me realize how helpful he is at calming things down and caring for our kids.

Sometimes, good karma

is created when you

consciously choose to give your mate a break from the

tumult of family life.

Other times, you can build up karma simply by the act of looking at the crumbs your mate left on the table and then without yelling about the mess say, “Let me clean that up for you.” A little bit of good karma goes a long way to create a ripple effect that inspires love and kindness in a relationship.

Laurie Puhn is a lawyer, couples mediator, TV personality on CNN, Fox News and Good Morning America and bestselling

author of “Fight Less, Love More: 5-Minute Conversations to Change Your

Relationship without Blowing Up or Giving In,” now in paperback.

Visit www.lauriepuhn.com for more information.

welcomes backWorcester Mag

Kathy RealPublisher

Superpower - invulnerabilityOther titles - wife, mother, sister, daughter, & friendKnown for - honestyLittle known fact - addicted to Peanut M&M’s® Power song - Respect, by Aretha FranklinWhat I love about Worcester - the ethnic foods & culture

{

We are thrilled to announce Kathy Real has returned to Worcester Mag to be our Publisher. Having spent her entire career in the industry, including 21 years at Worcester Mag where she worked her way from sales representative to associate publisher, Kathy is intimately familiar with the dynamics of the publishing business. Her focus will be keeping her finger on the pulse of hot button issues, stories, and trends that impact our readers, advertisers, and the community.

Please join us in welcoming Kathy – a model of Worcester Mag’s continuing commitment to provide innovative communication to our region.

Kathy Real!

Our programs are intelligent fun! The themes, activities, crafts, classes and play are selected and designed to foster your child’s curiosity and interpersonal skills.

Toddler programs (starts at 15 months)

Preschool (starts at 2.9 years), Pre-K (starts at 3.9 years) K Kids (age 5 years by April 1)

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE OR CALL 508.366.6121 X23 FOR YOUR OWN PERSONAL TOUR.

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12 DECEMBER2012

In March of 2010, we began the process to adopt a second child from China. We have a biological son and had adopted our daughter in 2009. This time we were pursuing the adoption of a boy after hearing how many boys were in the Waiting Child program. Early one October morning, we got the call we had been dreaming about for seven months. We had been matched with a 3-year-old boy in China. We quickly opened the pictures and fell instantly in love with the big brown eyes looking back at us. Over the next several weeks we shared our joyous news with family and friends. We hung pictures of our new son throughout our home. Our 6-year-old son and 4-year-old daughter anxiously waited for their new brother, who we decided to name Aaron, to arrive. Then one Monday in early December, we saw a child featured on the Love Without Boundaries (LWB) blog and instantly recognized him to be our Aaron. We were thrilled to see new pictures of our boy, but became a bit concerned as we read that he was available for adoption. Even though our adoption agency said we had nothing to worry about the Lord was whispering to me to pursue it. I contacted LWB and discovered that the child in their pictures did not have the same name as the child in our referral, but I knew without a doubt that the pictures were of the same little boy. Our adoption agency said that the China Center for Adoption Affairs (CCAA) is so

careful with referrals that there was no way there could have been a mistake, but they promised to look into it. So over the next four days, our adoption agency, the CCAA and LWB worked to get to the bottom of the situation. That Thursday we found out we had been mistakenly sent the wrong pictures with our referral, and we were really in the process of adopting a different little boy from the same orphanage. My heart sank and the tears came. I was in love with the child in the pictures not with words on a page. I called my adoption agency and spoke with the director. She asked if we would consider taking both boys (the child in the pictures and the child whose file we had). We didn’t even know that we could adopt two children. We said yes to adopt both boys and started the paperwork to make it happen. It took another two weeks before we received confirmation from CCAA that we could indeed adopt both of them. During that time we learned from an adoptive parent visiting the orphanage that the two boys shared a special bond according to the nannies who cared for them. They referred to them as “big brother” and “little brother.” The boys had been together since they were infants. They had had their cleft lip surgery together and slept next to one another. The adoptive parent sent me pictures of the two boys holding hands. I just sobbed when I heard all of this and

received the pictures. I knew that the Lord was working in the boys’ lives. God meant for them to remain together. We received the good news that we could adopt them both on December 22 — the best Christmas gift by far! We know that the “mistake” with the referral picture was no mistake at all but the Lord keeping these two precious boys together! The boys are doing well and are happy little guys despite all that they have been through. They both were born with a cleft lip and palate. One of them has had two surgeries since coming home already, the other has been through one surgery with another one scheduled this year. They have been in speech therapy for many months now through public school and private therapy with much more work to do in this area. They are developmentally delayed and have a lot of catching up to do. However they are happy and full of joy and have transitioned well to our family. We are so blessed to have them in our lives.

Michael and Charissa live in West Springfield, MA. Charissa is a stay-at-home mother of four; Connor (8), Annelise (5 – adopted from Jiangsu Province, China 1/2009), Ryan (5 – adopted

from Guangdong Province, China 6/2011) and Aaron (5 – adopted from Guangdong Province, China 6/2011). Michael is a Sr. Application Developer and a Registered Nurse working both

jobs to support the family.

“MISTAKE” That Turned Into A Double Blessing

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Due to a clerical error, both Ryan and Aaron were adopted from the same orphanage in China.

BAYSTATEPARENT 13

DECEMBER’SCHILD

Lisha

Lisha is a 13-year-old girl from the Domincan Republic who is bilingual. She speaks Spanish and English fluently and some Portuguese. Lisha is friendly, kind and considers herself to be easy to talk to. Lisha loves to sing, read and socialize with friends. Lisha does well in school where she continues to strengthen her reading skills and receives language support. She has an interest in being a detective or photographer. Lisha aspires to go to college one day. Her worker feels Lisha would do best in a home with children who are several years younger or older than her. A single female or two-parent home would be ideal for Lisha. Legally free for adoption, Lisha hopes to find a family that will love her forever and be kind to her. She wants a family that “is always there for you no matter what happens.”For more information on Lisha or the adoption process in general, please contact Department of Children and Families (DCF) Adoption Supervisor Karen Greaney at (508) 929-1000. The DCF Office in Worcester holds monthly informational meetings about the adoption process. The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 10 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. The office is located at 121 Providence Street (the old St. Vincent Hospital Building) on the third floor. Please call (508) 929-2143 to register.

Holiday Help

If you would like to help a child in care during the holiday season you may drop off a new, unwrapped gift - we are in particular need of gifts for adolescents - at one of the offices listed below or send in a donation. Checks should be made payable to “DCF Kids Fund.” The monies collected will be used for holiday parties for children in care as well as for enrichment programs for these kids. You also may contact your local DCF Office for their specific holiday needs.

Worcester East & West Area Office 121 Providence St., 2nd Floor, Worcester

508-929-2000

North Central Office 690 Mechanic St., Suite 1, Leominster

978-353-3600

South Central Office 185 Church St., Whitinsville

508-929-1000

Boston Adoption Information Meetings-DCF. Wednesday, Dec. 19 at Mass. Department of Children and Families-Boston, 451 Blue Hill Ave., Dorchester. 4 to 6 p.m. Learn how you can change the future of a child in need by becoming a foster or adoptive parent with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families.

Southern Region Adoption Information Meeting-DCF. Thursday, Dec. 6 at Morton Hospital, Margaret Stone Conference Room, 88 Washington St., Taunton. 6:30 p.m. Registration

is not required. If you have questions, contact Nancy Kinder at 508-894-3815.

Western Region (Worcester) Adoption Informational Meetings-DCF. Monday, Dec. 10 at Worcester Regional Offi ce, 121 Providence St., 3rd fl oor, Worcester. Registration is not required. If you have questions, contact Patty Savelli at 508-929-2150.

MAPP Training at Children’s Friend. Starts Thursday, Dec. 6 (10 consecutive weeks with a holiday break) at Children’s Friend – Worcester,

21 Cedar St., Worcester. 6 to 9 p.m. Call Sue Uryasz at 508-753-5425 for more information.Donate toys for the holidays. New and unwrapped gifts can be delivered to drop-off locations throughout the state to be donated to the Home of Little Wanderers. Wish lists and drop-off locations can be found online at thehome.org.

Please submit January’s adoption-related events by Tuesday, December 4th at baystateparent.com

(Click Calendar/Submit an event).

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www.becker.edu508.373.9500

http://www.becker.edu/academics/accelerated

CKERBE A COLLEGE STUDENT AND A FULL-TIME PARENT!

Accelerated Studies for the Adult Learner

BECKERCOLLEGE

14 DECEMBER2012

WINTER SQUASH BREADIngredients:

1/3 cup butter or margarine1 1/3 cup sugar2 eggs1 1/3 cups cooked, mashed squash1 ½ cups flour1 tsp. baking soda½ tsp. baking powder½ tsp. salt1 tsp. cinnamon½ tsp. nutmeg½ tsp. cloves½ cup chopped walnuts

Procedure: Cream together butter or margarine, sugar, beat in eggs and beat in cooked, mashed squash.

Sift together and stir in flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves.

Stir in ½ cup chopped walnuts. Pour into a greased loaf pan. Let rest for 15 minutes. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 to 60 minutes until done.

Courtesy of Wilson Farm, Lexington. wilsonfarm.com

Q&

A

An alchemy of modern and old world techniques, Parrish Relics creates jewel-toned, stained glass and magical imagery are joined with highly detailed sculpted frames, semi-precious stones, or tiny glass vessels. The jewelry is finished with the hand-

painted patinas of antiqued metals for a romantic, time worn presence. Each in-dividually created in her studio — one of a kind and ready to tell a story. You can reach her at facebook.com/parrishrel-ics, parrishrelics.com or parrishrelics.blogspot.com

JUNKDRAWERSDRAWERS

A LITA LITTLE OF THIS, A LITTLE OF THAT

SANTA VISITS BOSTONKids will get their wish this Christmas: they can bring Santa to their hometown and watch him explore their favorite landmarks in Santa is Coming to Boston. It’s a perfect way to introduce children to important local sites and historical landmarks as jolly old St. Nick flies over, around and sometimes lands on impor-tant locations such as the Bunker Hill Memorial and the Common. The book is available through Amazon.com.

What are some ways to prevent the fl u this season?• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when cough-ing or sneezing. Throw out the tissue in the nearest waste-basket, then immediately wash your hands with soap and water.• Don’t sneeze into your hand if you don’t have a tissue. Instead, use the crook of your arm.• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water. When hand washing is not possible, use antiseptic hand gels that contain alcohol.• Stay at least 3 feet away from people who are coughing or sneezing.• Immediately wash your hands after contact with an ill person.• Stay at home when you’re sick.• Keep your children at home when they’re sick.• Teach your children good hygiene habits.• Ask for a mask if you go to a doctor’s office or hospital when you’re sick.

-Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts

CHRISTMAS TREE FARM LISTINGSOne great holiday tradition is picking your own live Christmas tree. Bundle up the family and head over to your favor-ite tree farm that will likely have saws to help you cut them down and offer hot cocoa and other goodies for the family to share after your trek into the woods.

Here is a complete listing of tree farms in Massachusetts: christmas-trees.org.

Junkdrawers strives to highlight the products, people and places of Massachusetts. Have an idea? Email [email protected].

PARRISH RELICS

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CENTER COURT November 28th, noon - 9:00 p.m.

December 1st, 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. December 17th, 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sundays, December 2 and 9 at 6:30 pm at Auburn Mall Sundays, December 2 at 6:30 pm and December 9 at 7:30 pm at Solomon Pond Mall

Four-legged furry friends, under 60 lbs. are welcome to visit with Santa for pet photos. Guests and their friends may use the Mall entrance located next to Macy’s Home / Forever 21 at Auburn Mall or Regal Cinema at Solomon Pond Mall.

Pets will be limited to the Santa set area only. Pets must be leashed. Please come prepared to clean up after your pet.

Auburn MallExit 9 off I 290 in Auburn

Shopping Line® 508.832.6000

Solomon Pond MallExit 25B off I495 / I290 in Marlborough

Shopping Line®508.303.6255

16 DECEMBER2012

GO JOUST: Jousting was an extreme sport back in its day. The Higgins Armory has an interactive, hands-on experience

at 100 Barber Ave., Worcester.

GO TINY TIM: The Christmas Carol is playing at the Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester, through Dec. 23.

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GO GRINCH: Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas is playing on Saturday, Dec. 9 at the Citi Wang Theatre, 270 Tremont St., Boston.

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GO LIGHTS: La Salette Shrine in Attleboro has daily lights displays throughout the month of December. The lights are turned

on every day at 5 p.m. through New Year’s Day.

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Blackstone Valley Polar Express. 175 Main St., Pawtucket, RI. The trip includes a 90-minute excursion on the Providence and Worcester Railroad, a reading of The Polar Express, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, a special gift from Santa, hot chocolate and cookies, holiday sing-a-long, and coloring book and crayons. Friday trains depart: 4 & 7 p.m., Sat. & Sun. trains depart: 1 and 4 p.m. Cost $35. blackstonevalleypolarexpress.com.

Getting the Most from your Digital Camera Workshop. Mass Audubon Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot St. (Route 16), Natick. Are you new to the world of digital photography or still don’t feel you’re getting the most from your digital camera? This workshop is designed to help you understand the features of digital cameras, and use the landscape and creatures of Broadmoor to practice techniques to help improve your digital photography. Pre-registration required. Online registration available. massaudubon.org.

Kids’ Shows: Ben Rudnick & Friends. Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St., Brookline. Multiple award winners in family music, Ben Rudnick & Friends’ adventurous acoustic music and lyrically humorous style have won them fans of all ages. Whether on stage or record, the band’s formula of delivering interpretations of favorite, well-known songs combined with infectious original tunes is a winner. Concerts are community-building events; the recordings bring families together. Ben Rudnick and Friends make people happy and that makes them happy. The fun is contagious! Recommended for ages 3 and up. $10 A, $8 C. coolidge.org.

Diane Kelley Dance Studios Holiday Spectacular. The Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester. Dancing gingerbread men, twirling snowflakes, a kick line of reindeer and hot chocolate for everyone! Performed by students at Diane Kelley Dance Studios with guest artists. Tickets start at $26. 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. shows. thehanovertheatre.org.

8th Annual Holiday Dance Spectacular. Regent Theatre, 7 Medford St., Arlington. While you’ll see no toy soldiers battling mice in this holiday show, the Legacy Dance Company’s annual celebration has nevertheless become something of a tradition in the area. And for good reason: Legacy Dance Company along with Dance Inn Youth Intensive, About Time Tappers and Dance Inn faculty—have been sharing dance and merriment with holiday audiences for over 20 years. Shows at 10:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. regenttheatre.com.

Holiday Toy Drive. Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services, 240 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury. Benefiting needy children served by Shrewsbury Youth & Family Services and the Worcester County Department of Children & Families. Please donate a new non-violent toy to one of the following Shrewsbury

locations: Gymnastics Learning Center-574 Lake Street; Shrewsbury Senior Center-98 Maple Avenue; Avidia Bank-23 Maple Avenue; Shaw’s Osco Pharmacy-White City Plaza. Thank you for your generosity to the needy children in our community. syfs.cfsites.org.

It’s A Wonderful Life. Stoneham Theatre, 395 Main St., Stoneham. Alone on top of a bridge that overlooks his beloved Bedford Falls, George Bailey has convinced himself that his life and his work has been for nothing. Can the small victories and common decency of one man change an entire town? George will find out when he’s visited by a guardian angel who will show him what life would have been like without him. See this new adaptation of a Christmas staple that adds back some of your favorite scenes, including the Charleston

dance above the pool floor. Shows at 3 and 8 p.m. Tickets start at $44. Call 781-279-2200 for more information. stonehamtheatre.org.

Winter Wonderland Wagon Rides. Tihonet Village Market, 158 Tihonet Rd., Wareham.Free wagon rides travel through the cranberry bogs as riders try to find the magical elves hiding in the Elf Houses. Enjoy holiday music as you ride over the river and through the woods between the Old Company Store and Tihonet Village. Sing Carols and hear the story of how Santa really knows who has been naughty or nice. Each location will have crafts and free goodies for the kids. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 508-295-5437 for more information. tihonet.com.

FREE Sutton Chain of Lights. Vaillancourt Folk Art, 9 Main St., Sutton. Since it’s inception the Chain of Lights has brought together a community--both residents and businesses. Connecting each business are trolleys that run continuously from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. for no charge. In addition to some great Christmas shopping specials, and the gallery decorated with the splendor of the holidays, enjoy a Ukulele Christmas performance in Blaxton Hall. Rebekah and Sir Harry, having come up from New York City, will be performing at 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m.,

and 2 p.m. Local businesses participating also include Whittier Farms, Keown Orchards, Eaton Confectioners, Sleighbell Christmas Tree Farm, and many more! The day’s festivities conclude at the Sutton Town Common where the Sutton High School band performs to welcome Santa and light the trees on the Sutton Common. valfa.com.

Gingerbread House Workshop. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd., Sturbridge. This half-day workshop is for families and youth interested in making a festive Gingerbread House. Program fee includes: gingerbread house instruction (kits must be purchased below), a buffet lunch, 10% gift shop discount and an admission voucher to OSV (valid for one daytime admission between January & March). $15 per person $15 per kit. osv.org.

FREE Drop-In Family Day for “American Vanguards.” Addison Gallery of American Art, Phillips Academy, 180 Main St., Andover. Drop-In Family Day for American Vanguards: Graham, Davis, Gorky, de Kooning, and Their Circle, 1927–1942. Families are invited to discover the vibrancy and playfulness of the paintings, sculptures, and drawings in the exhibition and to create artwork inspired by the exhibition. Stop by anytime between the hours of 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. All children must be accompanied by an adult caregiver. Call 978-749-4015 for more information. andover.edu/museums/addison/Pages/default.aspx.

Fairy Christmas at the Historic Hedge House Museum. Hedge House Museum, 126 Water St., Plymouth. The elegant 1809 mansion will be transformed into a fairy wonderland, featuring eight rooms decorated in an enchanting fairy theme with hundreds of handcrafted fairy and holiday ornaments. Learn about the habitat and lifestyle of fey folk in a special section devoted to fairy houses, and pay a visit to the Fairy Queen and her attendants in their glittering crystal throne room. noon to 7 p.m.

Admission: A$15, C$10, Family Four-pack (2 adults, 2 children): $45. For more information, call 508-746-0012. plymouthantiquariansociety.org.

Caring for Christmas. The Mary Baker Eddy Library, 200 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. The Puritan settlers of New England, in the 17th century and beyond, paid little attention to Christmas, even shunning its celebration. By the end of the 19th century, it had become the most popular holiday of the year. How did all of that change? See for yourself as local actors and the New England Conservatory Children’s Chorus tell in narration and song the story of how 19th century Americans came to care for Christmas and the holiday season. The holiday program is also a chance to give to those in need. Although admission to this event is free, we will be collecting items for three local charities from Sunday, Nov. 25 to Sunday, Dec. 16. Donated items are tax-deductible. mbelibrary.org/programs.

Holiday Colonial Lantern Tour. P.O. Box 3777, Plymouth. Take a special tour carrying an authentic candle-lit, punched-tin lantern as you stroll the historic district of America’s Hometown. Did you know that the celebration of Christmas was banned in the colony in the 17th Century? Learn about colonial customs and the evolution of the Christmas holiday in Plymouth. Meet at the John Carver Inn & Spa, 25 Summer Street. Caroling can be included if requested. Call 774-454-8126 for more information and reservations. $15A and $12C, seniors and AAA members. lanterntours.com.

Art & Seek:Owls. Visual Arts Center, 963 Washington St., Canton. A drop-in program for 2-5 year olds and an adult. Each week is a different theme and will include a story, an activity and an art project. This week the theme will be owls. Whoo’s there? What owls live in Massachusetts. Let’s learn their calls and make an owl puppet. Registration not required. Adults free, Children $3M/$5NM. massaudubon.org.

The Polar Express. 5 Pine St., Carver. Inspired by the Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved children’s book, The Polar Express comes to life at Edaville this Christmas! Take a magical ride to the North Pole where Santa will board the train, greet the children, and hand each their own fi rst gift of Christmas. Hot chocolate and cookies will be served by costumed staff while pajama-clad guests enjoy a live reading and carols. 4 to 9 p.m. $30A or C. Children under 2 are free. edaville.com.

Homeschool: Habitats/Forests. Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill St., Sharon. The Fall 2012 Homeschool classes will focus on the three main Habitats found at Moose Hill-Forest, Meadows, Wetlands. Explore these diverse habitats for signs of animal life, investigate some unique microhabitats found within our forests and meadows,and discover how these habitats change with the seasons. Sweep net for insects in September, search for fungi in October, trun over logs in November, and build a shelter to stay warm come December. The possibilities are endless at Moose Hill. 9:30 a.m. to noon. $20C /M and $25C/NM. Registration is required. Call 781-784-5691 for more information. massaudubon.org.

Extreme Sport: the Joust. Higgins Armory Museum, 100 Barber Ave., Worcester. Skilled jousters were

MELTDOWN WARNING: Before you pack up the mini-van, please confirm your destination. Although we’ve done our best to assure accuracy at press time, things can and do change…

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the star athletes of their day, and their fans included men and women from all walks of life, drawn to the intense action, colorful personalities, and ever-present danger of this ultimate sport. Experience the pageantry of the medieval tournament as you see rare examples of the equipment for these sports: a “rental armor” worn by socially ambitious townsmen, still bearing deep gouges from the impact of opposing lances; an armored saddle from the age of Henry VIII; weapons and armor from the free-for-all “Bridge Game” played in the Italian city of Pisa. Be sure to heft our full-size lance and see how you might fare at this challenging sport as you play our Virtual Joust. higgins.org.

Yoga by Nature, Holiday Stress Relief Session. Tower Hill Botanical Gardens, 11 French Dr., Boylston. Experience the practice of yoga in the gardens at Tower Hill. Yoga by Nature classes place emphasis on the integration of breath and movement in a gentle to moderate fl ow. Through this practice of bringing awareness to our bodies, you will cultivate clarity of mind and inner peace. Each class will be guided to fi t individual students needs. 6 to 7:15 p.m. For more information, email [email protected] or call 508-869-6111x124. towerhillbg.org.

After school at Joppa: Come to the Coral Reef. 1 Plum Island Tpke., Newburyport. The afternoon starts off with self-guided activities, challenges,or puzzles that lead us to our topic for the day. As a group, we’ll observe, investigate, and compare wildlife, their adaptations and the changes that they undergo each season. Each experience will leave your young scientist eager for the next session. 3:30 to 5 p.m. $11C/M, $15C/NM. massaudubon.org.

Twilight Lantern Ghost Tour. Water Street, Plymouth.Walk the historic, haunted paths of Plymouth. Hear the history and why they haunt. Walk through Burial Hill Cemetery. Tours led by paranormal investigators and see the tools used on investigations. Bring your cameras and come capture spirits on fi lm. 7:30 p.m. $13A, $10C. deadofnightghosttours.com.

Ecotarium: Budding Scientists: The Eyes Have It. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Budding Scientists see it all, while discovering how their eyes work and may play tricks on them! 10:15 a.m.-10:45 a.m., 11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Free with EcoTarium admission. ecotarium.org.

Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka. Cotuit Center for the Arts, 4404 Falmouth Rd., Cotuit. A musical by Leslie Bricusse & Anthony Newley, Adapted by Tim McDonald & Leslie Bricusse Based on the Book Charlie and The Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl. Roald Dahl’s timeless story of the world-famous candy man and his quest to fi nd an heir comes to life in this stage adaptation of “Charlie and The

Chocolate Factory,” which features the songs from the classic family fi lm “Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory.” Friday and Saturday evening performances at 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Tickets: $25/$22 seniors/$20 members/$15 students Group rates are available for parties of 10 or more. artsonthecape.org

Tis the Season. Cathedral of the Holy Cross, 1400 Washington St., Boston. Boston Children’s Chorus

rings in the season with the sound of over 500 voices. $10. 2 p.m. bostonchildrenschorus.org.

Dickens’ A Christmas Carol Times Two! A Benefi t Performance. Old South Meeting House, 310 Washington St., Boston. The British ARE coming, both the favorite holiday story and traditional English Christmas Carols. Time travel back to 1876 for a bit of customized American history from a British perspective, a passionate dramatic reading, and some great piano music.

“Victorian Englishman Thomas Hutchinson,” portrayed by Al LePage, uses voice, gestures and more to create 18 characters from Scrooge to Tiny Tim, from Mrs. Cratchit to Marley’s Ghost! Rev. Dr. Dianne Carpenter, minister and professional musician, dances her fi ngers across the keyboard playing holiday classics, plus a surprise historic tune about the Boston Tea Party. This memorable holiday experience is sure to bring laughter—and perhaps some tears. 100% of proceeds go to benefi t the preservation and programming of Old South Meeting House. Advance tickets $10, $12 at the door. $8 for members of Old South Meeting House. oldsouthmeetinghouse.org.

Kids’ Shows Film: A Muppet Christman Carol. Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St., Brookline. ‘Tis the season for love, laughter, and one of the most cherished stories of all time! Join Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and all the hilarious Muppets in this merry, magical version of Charles Dickens’ classic tale. Academy Award® winner Michael Caine gives a performance that’s anything but “bah, humbug!” as greedy, penny-pinching Ebenezer Scrooge. One fateful Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. Together with kind, humble Bob Cratchit (Kermit the Frog) and his family, the Spirits open Scrooge’s eyes -- and his heart -- to the true meaning of Christmas. Recommended for ages 4+. $7A, $5C. coolidge.org.

Family Series: How Wolfgang Got His Groove Bach. Edward M. Pickman Concert Hall, 27 Garden St., Cambridge. Back by popular demand, Wolfgang Amadeus Schmutzinberry returns for a new musical adventure. Wolfgang has lost his sense of rhythm and students from the Longy School of Music help him get his groove back. This entertaining and interactive show features NY actor and musician Rami Vamos, percussionist Zach Nazar and students from Longy’s Saturday music program. Fun for the whole family! 2 p.m. longy.edu.

Saturday Santa Lunch Cruise. Spirit of Boston, 200 Seaport Blvd., Boston. Spirit of Boston’s vibrant Lunch with Santa Cruise has it all! Dine on our festive holiday lunch buffet and enjoy special holiday entertainment as we cruise the Harbor and are visited by Santa and friends. Plus, take home a complimentary goodie bag and enjoy cookie decorating courtesy of the Spirit of Boston. Photos with Santa will be available to purchase onboard. 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. spiritofboston.com.

Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas. Citi Wang Theatre, 270 Tremont St., Boston. Featuring the hit songs “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch,” and “Welcome Christmas,” from the original animated series, The Grinch discovers the true meaning of Christmas in this adored holiday classic. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” plans to steal Christmas away from the holiday-spirited Whos. The Grinch soon realizes, however, there’s more to Christmas than he bargained for. Embraced by generation after generation, Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! Tickets start at $35. grinchmusical.com.

Holiday Baking. Tower Hill Botanical Garden, 11 French Dr., Boylston. Cover yourself in cinnamon

Visit the Sutton Chain of Lights on the town common Saturday, Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is a free trolley to all locations.

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dust and sugar snow. Enjoy the most scrumptious treats the season has to offer, in this one-of-a-kind holiday baking workshop guaranteed to make your sweet tooth smile. In this hands-on workshop, students will learn how to make fresh baked holiday treats, such as English Toffee, Shortbread, Cinnamon Sticky Buns, and Gingerbread Cookies, without using butter, cream or eggs. This workshop is for both adults and children. (Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult). 1 to 4 p.m. $45NM, $40M. 508-869-6111, x124.

An Introduction to Shadow Puppetry by Brad Shur. Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. Students will learn the history of shadow performance and explore diverse styles of shadow puppetry through building exercises and performance assignments. This is an introductory-level class: participants of all interests, backgrounds, and abilities are welcome. Participants will be expected to work on projects outside of class time. 6:30 p.m. puppetshowplace.org.

Homeschool: Habitats/Swamps. Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill St., Sharon. Kids will explore these diverse habitats for signs of animal life, investigate some unique microhabitats found within the forests and meadows, and discover how these habitats change with the seasons. Sweep net for insects in September, search for fungi in October, trun over logs in November, and build a shelter to stay warm come December. The possibilities are endless at Moose Hill. 9:30 a.m. to noon. $20C/M, $25C/NM. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Let’s Build Something. Habitat Education Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, 10 Juniper Rd., Belmont. Everyone loves to build - birds, squirrels, beavers, mice, even kids all can create homes and hideaways using nothing but sticks and straw. We will look at the homes that animals build, read a story and play games. Come and see what you can build. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Registration is required. $6A/M, $8A/NM, $6C/M, $8C/NM. massaudubon.org.

The Shortest Day. Tower Hill Botanical Gardens, 11 French Dr., Boylston. These programs are designed for children ages 3-5 and their parent, grandparent or caregiver. Class begins inside with a simple craft and storytime, then students step outside for a short walk to discover the new colors and shapes of fall and early

winter in the garden. Please register in advance. 10 to 11 a.m. $8NM and $5M per adult/child.

Preschool and Toddler Wednesdays. Ecotarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Every Wednesday enjoy a story, meet a live animal and get creative with a supervised craft activity -- all geared especially for little ones, aged 3 and under. The story and animal circle is held at 10:30 and 11 a.m. Drop-in craft time continues from 10:30 a.m. through 11:30 a.m. These preschool and toddler programs are very popular and space is limited. So, while they are free with admission, tickets are issued at the Information Desk on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that these programs are designed for families. Free with museum admission. ecotarium.org.

Got Bones? Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. If you are between the ages of 3 and 5, bring your favorite adult for a thematic hour of a story, an activity, and a naturalist-led walk. $5A/M, $8A/NM, $2C/M, $2C/NM. 10 to 11 a.m. massaudubon.org.

Fireside Fables. Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Rd., Lincoln. Relax by a crackling fire as we share stories of farm and woodland creatures. Meet some of the main characters of our stories. Enjoy games, songs, snacks and crafts to go with our stories. 3:30 to 5 p.m. $11A/M, $13A/NM, $11C/M, $13C/NM. massaudubon.org.

Stars and Meteors at the Holidays: Geminids. Mass Audubon’s Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary 280 Eliot St. (Rt.16), Natick. Join in for a night of stars and meteors! Just what is Orion’s belt and why can you only see it in the winter? What better than a moonless night for great views of the night sky, meteors, snacks and hot drinks(Weather date: the Saturday following) Pre-registration required. Online registration available. massaudubon.org.

Kids’ Shows: Alastair Moock’s Holiday Extravaganza. Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290

Harvard St., Brookline. Alastair Moock and Friends and extra special guests, The Fayerweather Street School Chorus, present a concert of original tunes and holiday favorites. Moock’s most recent album, These Are My Friends, won a 2011 NAPPA Gold Award and featured cameos by Vanessa Trien, Lori McKenna, Rani Arbo, and Mark Erelli. Recommended for ages 3+. 10:30 a.m. $10A, $8C. coolidge.org.

A Christmas Carol. The Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester. Generously sponsored by Bank of America, continue our family holiday tradition and start getting in the holiday spirit with Troy Siebels’ adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale. You know the story, you love the message of Christmas redemption, and the love for mankind that the season brings. Join us for our 5th annual spectacular production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Tickets start at $28. thehanovertheatre.org.

The Velveteen Rabbit. Boston Children’s Theatre, The Benjamin Franklin Institute, 41 Berkeley St., Boston. Back by popular demand for its fourth season, this enchanting play features puppetry combined with live actors to create a magical experience for people of all ages. Capturing the hearts of thousands of children and their families, THE VELVETEEN RABBIT focuses on the power of love and companionship. It has quickly become both an instant classic and a holiday tradition for BCT audiences. Tickets start at $25. bostonchildrenstheatre.org.

Annual Christmas at the King Caesar House - “A Christmas Carol by Dickens.” King Caesar House, 120 King Caesar Rd., Duxbury. Rooms will be decorated to refl ect the settings or characters of the book,“A Christmas Carol by Dickens.”The King Caesar House was built in 1809 for Ezra Weston II and his wife, Jerusha Bradford Weston. Weston was known as “King Caesar” for his worldwide preeminence in shipbuilding and shipping during the early 19th century. The house will be open to the general public for tours. $10A, $5C and seniors, children under 6 are free. duxburyhistory.org.

ONGOING Christmas Festival of Lights. 5 Pine St., Carver. Ride comfortably in warm and dry coaches while viewing a spectacular holiday setting featuring an explosion of lights. Kids of all ages will enjoy an array of vintage amusement rides and a visit with Santa. Ongoing through Jan. 6. Closed Christmas Day. A$18, C$18, Seniors $16, Children under 2 are free. edaville.com.

Walk the historic, haunted paths around Water Street in Plymouth at the Twilight Lantern Ghost Tour, ongoing throughout December.

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Art & Seek:Snowfl akes. Visual Arts Center, 963 Washington St., Canton. A drop-in program for 2-5 year olds and an adult. Each week is a different theme and will include a story, an activity and an art project. This week the theme will be snowfl akes. Are all snowfl akes alike? Let’s make some snowfl akes and try to catch them as we blow them around the room. 10 to 11 a.m. $3C/M, $5C/NM, adults free. massaudubon.org.

FREE Feeder Central, Wellfl eet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, Route 6, South Wellfl eet. Converse with a naturalist and spy on the birds at our feeders while enjoying coffee and pastries in our Nature Center. New every week, this interactive presentation is geared for all levels of birders, including beginners. Registration not required. massaudubon.org.

Afterschool at Joppa: Descend into the Abyss! Joppa Flats Education Center, P.O. Box 1558, Newburyport. Our afternoon starts off with self-guided activities, challenges or puzzles that lead us to our topic for the day. As a group, children will observe, investigate and compare wildlife, their adaptations, and the changes that they undergo each season. Participants may play the role of an environmentalist, a naturalist or even a marine biologist throughout this series. Each experience will leave your young scientist eager for the next session. This program is open to children in grades 1 through 4. Parents are welcome but not required to stay during this program. 3:30 to 5 p.m. $11C/M, $15C/NM. massaudubon.org.

Fledglings. Blue Hills Trailside Museum, 1904 Canton Ave., Milton. Explore nature with your child. Fledglings encourages your child’s love for nature through interactive stories, short nature lessons, crafts, songs, nature walks, and live animal encounters. A light snack will be provided. Up to three children per adult. Fees apply to all participants, both adults and children. “Backpack babies” (under 12 months and carried in a backpack or sling) are welcome free of charge, though please mention these participants when registering. Please contact the museum if anyone in your party has a food allergy.

10 to 11:30 a.m. Registration is required. $7A/M, $9A/NM, $7C/M, $9C/NM. massaudubon.org.

Imagine, Sing, & Learn 12A: The Deep Sea. Joppa Flats Education Center, P.O. Box 1558, Newburyport. This parent/child program is designed for the creative, curious, and active preschooler. Each 90-minute session offers a structured series of activities including original songs, movement, dramatic play, hands-on science, and a

thematic snack. You’ll receive coloring pages, song lyrics, vocabulary, a fun fact sheet, and a suggested reading list in an electronic goody bag! Registration is required. $11C/M, $15 C/NM, adults free. massaudubon.org.

Homeschool Programs at Wachusett Meadow-Bears. Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 113 Goodnow Rd., Princeton. Learn about the many species of bears, particularly our native black bear. See a black bear’s skull and possibly a polar bear’s skin. What sort of evidence have we seen of these large mammals at Wachusett Meadow? Why are these creatures making a comeback. Registration is required. 1 to 3 p.m. $7C/M, $12C/NMmassaudubon.org.

FREE Solstice Celebration. Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, 127 Combs Rd., Easthampton.

Throughout time, people have come together to celebrate the shortest day of the year and welcome the lengthening days ahead. At Arcadia we also have a tradition: we gather at sundown for music and community unity. Ward off the cold with the warmth of the bonfi re, sip hot cider, and listen to music. We make every attempt not to cancel this event due to inclement weather, but call Arcadia if a blizzard is brewing. This is a free event, however, please bring a nonperishable food item for the Food Bank of

Western Massachusetts. Registration is not required for this program. 6 to 8:30 p.m. massaudubon.org.

Gifts from the Sea. Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary, 1280 Horseneck Rd., Westport. Take some time for yourself and your family during the busy holiday season and come explore our Beach Loop Trail during the quiet winter season. Explore the sandy beach, rocky coastlines and see what December brings to the wrackline. 10 a.m. to noon. $4 A/M, $6 A/NM, $4C/M, $6 C/NM. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Sundown Owl Prowl. Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary, 2000 Main St., Marshfi eld. Each year we venture out to Fox Hill at the Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary to wait for that magical sighting, when the short-eared owl emerges from the woods and starts to circle. Then, head into the woods ourselves

to seek the great horned and screech owls in their secret hiding places. Dress warmly, bring a fl ashlight, and let’s fi nd some owls. 5 to 7 p.m. $7 A/M, $10 A/NM, $8 C/M, $10 C/NM. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Zoo Lights 2012 at Stone Zoo. Stone Zoo, 149 Pond St., Stoneham. This winter wonderland attracts thousands of visitors each year who get into the holiday spirit by strolling along tree-lined paths lit by thousands of twinkling lights. Upon entering the Zoo, guests will visit Yukon Creek, which not only features dazzling holiday lights but is also home to bald eagles, a North American porcupine, a gray fox, and new this year – arctic foxes! Guests of all ages will have the opportunity to meet Stone Zoo’s reindeer up close during the nightly photo opportunities. stonezoo.org.

2012 December Vacation Days:Fast Falcons. Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill St., Sharon. Each day is a blend of indoor activities, outdoor explorations, crafts and games that help you learn all about the winged predators called raptors. $50 C/M, $60 C/NM. massaudubon.org.

from baystateparent!

Sing-A-Long Sound of Music. Regent Theatre, 7 Medford St., Arlington. Have you ever been to a fi lm musical and had the uncontrollable urge to burst into song? Do you muse over the endless tailoring opportunities for chintz curtains? Have you always wondered what it would be like to wear a wimple? Sing-a-long-a Sound of Music is your chance to test your vocal range with several hundred other assorted nuns, Von Trapp family members and Julie Andrews look-a-likes. Tickets start at $10. regenttheatre.com.

Vacation Week Kitchen Chemistry: All About Candy. Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary, 1417 Park St.,

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Attleboro. You’ll learn the history of candy making, fi nd out what candy is most popular in different parts of the world, and then make some delicious varieties ourselves. You’ll be making chocolate fudge, yummy popcorn balls and Oreo truffl es. There will be plenty to taste and some to take home. 1 to 3 p.m. $20 C/M, $25 C/NM. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Disney On Ice : 100 Years of Magic. TD Garden, Causeway St., Boston. Join the celebration as 65 of Disney’s unforgettable characters from 18 beloved stories come to life in Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic. Join the one and only Mickey Mouse, the irresistible Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck, Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchio, and all the Disney Princesses in a skating spectacular you’ll remember forever. Tickets start at $12.50. tdgarden.com.

Vacation Week Program: Under the Ice at Lake T; A Winter Exploration. Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary, 1417 Park St., Attleboro. You’ll hike and bring ponding gear out to Lake T to see what you can fi nd. As you walk you’ll talk about the turtles and frogs that live in and around Lake Talaquega and learn what specifi c species are doing to survive the winter. You’ll break through the ice if necessary and dip our nets to scoop out some samples. You’ll warm up by the woodstove after our hike with hot cocoa. 1 to 2:30 p.m. $8 C/M, $10 C/NM. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

2012 December Vacation Days: Mysterious Owls. Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill St., Sharon. Each day is a blend of indoor activities, outdoor explorations, crafts and games that help you learn all about the winged predators called raptors. Register for one or more days of fun! On different days, you’ll experiment with paper airplanes and kites to discover how hawks soar; test how your eyesight compares to that of an eagle; play a migration game; and search fi eld, forest, hill and sky for raptors. Children are divided into groups of similar ages. The learning activities and objectives differ for each group. Bring a snack, water, lunch, and both indoor and outdoor footwear. Dress or pack for the weather since we go out every day. $50 C/M, $60 C/NM. massaudubon.org.

December Vacation Adventures: Seal Pups. Wellfl eet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, Route 6, South Wellfl eet. Get into survival mode as you explore outside and experiment inside to learn about the unique strategies animals use to thrive in the wild. Crafts, stories, games, and winter hikes will also be part of this drop-off school vacation week program.

9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Sea Turtle 911. Wellfl eet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, Route 6, South Wellfl eet. Would you like to help endangered sea turtles? Hands-on activities will help you learn why sea turtles strand on Cape Cod in the fall, and what you can do to help them. We’ll also patrol a local beach in search of turtles to rescue. $7 A/M, $9 A/NM, $7 C/M, $9 C/NM. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Vacation Week Family Fun Days: Survivor. Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, 87 Perkins Row, Topsfi eld. Winter is a great time to be outside exploring the natural world, so stretch your legs and join us for one or more of these vacation week programs: Predator Party: Thursday, December 27, Parent/Child Build a Bird Feeder: Friday, December 28, Survivor: Saturday, December 29. $7 A/M, $9 A/NM, $6 C/M, $7 C/NM. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Winter Stories. Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill St., Sharon. Welcome in winter’s arrival with an afternoon of stories and hot chocolate. Winter-themed stories will be featured during this all-indoor afternoon of word fun and crafts. Registration is required. 3 to 4 p.m. $5 A/M, $8 A/NM, $5 C/M, $8 C/NM. massaudubon.org.

Family New Year’s Eve Celebration. Children’s Museum of NH, 6 Washington Street, Dover, NH. Children and families are invited to ring in 2013 a little early at the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire’s annual daytime Family New Year’s Eve Celebration. This festive event runs from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. and includes three special “countdowns to midnight” held at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. At each countdown, a glittering ball drops 30 feet from the ceiling as everyone counts down the fi nal 10 seconds of the year. There are noisemakers, confetti and make-your-own party hats, and ginger ale is served to toast the new year. All the fun is included with regular paid admission of $9 A, $8 for seniors, and children under 12 months old are admitted free. childrens-museum.org.

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ONMYPLATE

When Ernest Borgnine’s daughter, Nancee called me, I almost did not answer the phone. I am so glad I did! This unexpected phone call changed my life. Busy with some “mommy duties” and late to get in to the shop, as usual, I was literally just about to hop in the shower when the phone rang. The water was already running, but it was a call from Los Angeles. “It’s probably a customer. I should answer,” I think, so I shut the water off. Nancee Borgnine called to ask me if I would be interested in participating in an Emmy Awards celebrity gifting event that she and her dad were hosting. It seemed she had found my little company, Heart and Stone Jewelry, of Northborough in LA Magazine and wanted us to attend. When I could finally speak, the only answer that made any sense to me was “No, thank you, it’s not for me.” I know that may sound crazy, but all I could hear in my head were all the reasons why I should not do it. I was overwhelmed by thoughts of the preparation and costs. I would have to leave my husband, two kids and three dogs for four days. I would have to get myself and a team (I could not do this alone!) to California. This was not going to be a cheap venture, what with travel costs, child care, displays and of course the time and expense of creating and gifting our jewelry to quite a few people. Plus, we have a jewelry business to keep running. The voice of fear was loud and clear. Thankfully, Nancee was not going to take no for an answer. After I firmly, but politely said, “No thank you,” we got to talking. Talking to Nancee was like talking to an old friend. We had a long conversation about my Giving is Good collection that raises funds for important causes, such as Cystic Fibrosis Research and Autism Awareness. We discussed how each piece from this collection was born out of a unique and personal story. The more we talked, the more I found myself thinking about the possibilities. My first thought of saying no was changing to a yes. “You only live once,” I thought. “What the heck, I’m in!” After I hung up the phone, reality set in. We are going to the Emmy’s, and I have no idea what I am getting into! With the event just weeks away, I knew Heart and Stone needed new displays. I envisioned each of the Giving is Good pieces on its own tall white column.

Thankfully, one of my employees, Jody Miller, a woman of many talents, was able to create the display sets we envisioned, perfectly (with a sprained wrist no less). Now all that was left was to decide what to bring. I think I work best under pressure. Just days before the event, I still wasn’t sure what I was bringing for ready-to-wear charm necklaces. We specialize in personalization, which takes time, but I wanted something the celebrities would fall in love with on the spot. With three days to go, I decided to focus on a pet project. I had been working on a new technique that would allow me to inscribe tiny handwriting - not a just word or two, but a short meaningful message. It was extremely difficult to do, and I hadn’t yet mastered it. I’m proud to say, finally, “Mission accomplished!” When we finally arrived in Los Angeles, we had one day to scramble and find everything we didn’t bring or ship ahead. We drove all over the city to find what we needed. We got to experience the Famous Sammy’s Camera (fun!) and Friday night rush hour traffic on Mulholland Drive (not so fun!). At the party we offered ready-to-wear pieces and personalization if they didn’t mind waiting a few weeks. Our Feel the Love necklace was a huge hit with many of the male celebrities, including Breaking Bad’s Christopher Cousins. My favorite was a personalized piece for Gage Golightly (a.k.a. the notorious Teen Wolf Erica Reyes). She was so easy to talk to, and we had a great time getting to know her. She happily tried several different pieces on so that we could get a sense of her personal style. She sent us the nicest e-mail when her necklace arrived: “I just received my necklace last night, and I can’t tell you how beautiful it is or how special it is to me. It’s my favorite piece now.” The experience was more than I could have hoped for – I’m so glad I didn’t say no! To win a piece from Heart and Stone Jewelry of Northborough, visit baystateparent.com and then click giveaways. Winners will be picked at random by Dec. 15. Julie Booras is a happily married Shrewsbury mother of two children and three dogs, and is the owner of Heart and Stone Jewelry located in Northborough.

Julie Booras is a happily married Shrewsbury mother of two children and three dogs, and is the owner of

Heart and Stone Jewelry located in Northborough.

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Julius Hochberg, 9, of Newton, says making other people feel good makes him feel good. When he was younger, his mother Yvette was looking for a place to volunteer with him so he could learn to give back to the community. “I had tried to have him sing at a local nursing home, but it was difficult to coordinate the volunteering,” Yvette Hochberg says. “It was hard for them to accommodate kids volunteering at the home.” Around the same time, she was in a French enrichment class for toddlers with Joy Surprenant, of Brighton, who was also trying to find a place for her son, who was 2 at the time, to volunteer and help other kids and people in need. That’s how Catching Joy was born. “My parents always volunteered with us when I was a child, and I really wanted

Max, my son who is now 9, to be able to volunteer together with me,” she says. “We’d made valentines for Veterans when Max was younger, but I had heard from other parents that it was hard to find places to volunteer as a family.” When Max was younger, Joy taught enrichment classes and helped with crafts at programs where she could bring Max with her. “Joy is one of those people who isn’t afraid to try anything,” says Lisa Dziokonski, senior marketing and public relations coordinator at the Ritz Carlton in Boston. “I started working here around the same time Joy was looking to do a volunteering event for kids with the Ritz Carlton.” A Nutcracker Tea had been a tradition at the hotel in coordination with the Nutcracker playing at local theaters in Boston, but the Ritz Carlton was looking for a way to change it up that year.

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“They had coloring pages that they would put out, but there wasn’t the volunteer component,” Lisa says. “That’s where Joy came in and she suggested the kids could make ornaments that are donated (along with an artificial tree) to local charities who help children.” Lisa said Joy just makes things happen – and she works well with the kids. “You don’t hear a lot about kids volunteering and giving back to other children,” Yvette says. “So many people think the kids are too young to understand that, but Joy helps make it fun for them.” “When the kids were little, they participated in a jump-a-thon,” she says. A jump-a-thon is an event where parents donate a certain amount of money based on how many their child jumps at the event. That year, the kids donated the money to victims of the tsunami through

the American Red Cross. “Joy keeps the idea of giving to people on a basic level for the kids – she doesn’t put the emphasis on the plight of the recipient, but on the child giving.” It may sound simple, but there is a lot of behind-the-scenes coordinating that Joy does when Max is in school or after he goes to bed at night. But Joy doesn’t think of it as work. “I am so thankful for the blessings my family has,” she says. “It makes us more thankful by giving to others, and we have made so many friends through volunteering as a family, so it doesn’t feel like work.” The events that Joy coordinates are simple for kids to understand. “We may have them make bookmarks and then we donate books with the bookmarks in them to children in need,” she

says. “Sometimes a child will make a bookmark, but want to keep it. We always let them keep one for themselves, but we always encourage them to give one away, which can be hard.” Joy says that if the kids keep going to Catching Joy events, they come to enjoy donating and giving back to others. “She nurtures the positive impulses to create and to do for someone else,” Yvette says. “Children are naturally giving, sympathetic and empathetic. She nurtures the positive impulse to create something for someone else.” Yvette says Joy doesn’t teach giving; she gives children the opportunity to give. “Parents are dying for a way to have their kids give back and volunteer,” she says. “Joy was flooded with calls asking how to help the victims of Hurricane Sandy, and I know she’s working to coordinate

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Children from around Massachusetts volunteer with Catching Joy by helping at walks for nonprofi t organizations, making valentines for Veterans, manning lemonade stands and having fun.

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Family-Friendly Tours I Free Refreshments I Arts and Crafts I Russian Folktales Performance Admission: $7 Adults, $4 Children 3-17, $5 Seniors

FREE for members and children under three.

FUN EVENTS FOR ALL ! SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15, 9AM - 3PM

an event to help them.” “I like to be creative and our organization does charity walks and other events to help kids have fun while they are volunteering,” Joy says. “Kids use creativity, crayons and care in our projects.” Joy says as the kids get older, they get more involved in leadership roles in the organization. “Some of the kids now help read or talk about Catching Joy and what the organization is at events,” she says. “Parents should start by bringing their child to one project or event and see how it goes. People want to help, so it doesn’t have to be a major effort, just do one thing.”

To donate or volunteer, visit CatchingJoy.org.

28 DECEMBER2012

DIYHoliday GiftsHoliday Gifts

HAPPYHOLIDAYS

3. These martini glasses are great for a holiday martini:

5 oz. vanilla vodka2 oz. white crème de menthe½ oz. peppermint Schnapps

Pour all ingredients into a shaker with ice. Shake and drain into a martini glass. Garnish with a candy cane.

1. Accent any table or room with these paper fl owers. Add your own fl are to personalize for that special someone.

2. This string of clothes pins is a great way to display holiday cards, kids arts or projects throughout the house or classroom. They make a great gift for teachers, moms and even grandparents.

1.1.2.2.

3.3.

For information on how to make these holiday gifts, visit baystateparent.com/blogs/editors-blog

*A holiday wreath made out of snowfl ake cookie cutters is also on page 25. Each of these handmade gifts cost under $15 to make.

paula monette ethier, creative directorsteven king, photographerjennifer lucarelli, editor

BAYSTATEPARENT 29

7by cassandra abramson, owner cutie patuties consignment

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6 7

Cutie Patuties has been your Budget Hero for more than 14 years. We have been mak-ing you and your family look good, and now your home look good too with items from Cutiques. Locally owned and operated, we consider con-signing a partnership with our customers and consignors. We work with you to provide the largest selection, of high quality items for your chil-dren’s, teen’s and your own revolving closets. The kids grow like weeds, but that is no reason they can’t look great while they grow! Consign the items the kids have out-grown, and earn credit to use towards new items, or collect your closet earnings in cash! Easy and convenient consign-ment process means no more excuses for not cleaning out.

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tips on how to enjoy the seasonwithout breaking the bank

Make a list and stick to it. Include all the smaller gifts you usually forget about until you are in panic mode; school bus driver, hair dresser and babysitter. Give yourself the challenge to enjoy the holidays without breaking your budget. It really IS the thought that counts, so put more thought than money into your gifts this year!

Has your best friend been asking you for your prized Pumpkin Bread Pudding recipe? Make a batch of your recipe in a dish or on a platter

you can gift with the recipe card, photo of the fi nished project and oven mitts for a thoughtful gift.

Are family members missing the everyday events of the kids? Create a calendar with silly pictures from the past year. Last 4th of July’s picture with the Popsicle melting down their clothes will make someone smile. Don’t only use the “perfect” pictures, the silly pictures can really show the kids’ personalities.

Make the package part of the experience. Don’t settle for a pre-printed gift bag, actually wrap the gifts, tie a bow with ribbon, attach an ornament as decoration (you can use one from your stash). The recipient will remember the care you put into wrapping their item, and know you spent time on their gift.They will remember that as much as the gift itself.

When a gift card is the most logical choice, purchase one from a local business. 68% of every dollar spent in a locally owned business, stays with the community in payroll, taxes and other spending.

Books are a great choice. Pass on a book from your library you loved. Include a written note about the book, or why you enjoyed it. Have younger kids on your holiday list? Enlist your children into cleaning out their bookcase and passing on their favorites. A good book is hours of entertainment.

Grandparents already have everything they “need.” Have the kids help make a “Day Trip” Gift. Schedule a trip to a museum with just one of the kids to really have some one-on-one time. Let the kids pick the museum (most libraries have passes to loan), the kids can make an invitation, and even help make a picnic lunch to bring. Grandparents (and the kids) will remember their special day together more than another scarf under the tree.

HAPPYHOLIDAYS

ADVERTORIAL

30 DECEMBER2012

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Cutie Patutie’s Consignment

Check out the area’s best selection of quality toys from Melissa & Doug. Put a smile on their face without breaking your holiday budget. Lowest everyday prices around!

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CoCoKey Water Resort/Holiday Inn

CoCoKey Water Resort is a fun-fi lled experience for every member of the family. It’s more than just a hotel or water park, it’s an adventure.

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Wicked Good Cookies

Custom gift packages from Wicked Good Cookies with a mix of homemade style gourmet cookies and incredibly cool photo cookies! Send a gift that is guaranteed to make a delicious and lasting impression!

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The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts

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Receive a complimentary Basic Membership (valued at $50) with every purchase of a gift certifi cate of $100 or more. Use it as a gift or keep it for yourself, and enjoy membership benefi ts including early access to tickets, advance email notifi cations, discounts on most shows, free admission to the Access Hanover Lyceum Series and more.

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The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts

Unwrap the joy this holiday season with the 2 for $92 holiday package featuring 2 tickets to The Hanover Theatre’s 5th annual production of A Christmas Carol, a $50 restaurant gift card to Ceres Bistro at the Beech-wood Hotel, 2 passes to Tower Hill Botanic Garden with a 10% discount to the gift shop and more. Experience the New Worcester with world-class entertainment, breathtaking scenic views and gourmet food at some of Worcester County’s premiere venues.

2 Southbridge Street Worcester, MA 01608877.571.SHOW (7469)www.TheHanoverTheatre.org

SHOW & TELLHolidayHAPPYHOLIDAYS

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When you first walk into Cre8 you might mistake it for a very impressive gift shop. There are wine glasses, mugs, coasters, bowls, photo frames and so much more. But take a few more steps inside and it now resembles an art studio. Cre8 is the only do it yourself personalization studio of its kind in the

country. When Cre8 owner and mastermind Lisa Sacks started out, she worked in the basement of her home. She created unique t-shirts for her then young children and people started commenting on them. Soon after that, her business began. She started printing t-shirts and other products for schools and theater groups. “Like lots of people out there, I am creative, but not artistic,” Lisa says. “I always had ideas of what I’d like to do, but I never had the artistic ability to do it.” Lisa’s children grew up, she and her husband moved to Millbury last year, and she decided to leave her basement studio and open up a DIY studio. Lisa’s eyes light up when she starts talking

about her machines in the studio and what they can do. The studio has a laser engraver, heat presses, hat presses, a button maker, mug presses, laminators, hand press and a new addition to the family, an industrial sandblaster for etching glass. Confused? Don’t be. “Everyone is a little bit nervous at first,” she says. “After all, not too many people have worked a heat press or sand blaster before.” The hardest part is to choose what you want to create. There are Italian marble coasters and trivets, iPad covers, puzzles, t-shirts, sweatshirts, charm bracelets, bread baskets, candles, glassware of all kinds and so much more. Lisa is constantly adding new product to her studio.

You can bring your photos in and personalize a t-shirt or be more adventurous and design a 3-D family tree. If you don’t want to use your photos, you can sandblast some glassware. Choose from all types of glasses, bowls, platters etc. Once you decide, Lisa, Stephanie, Maegan (both Stephanie and Maegan are Mass Art graduates) and assistants Brittney, Steph, JQ and Nick a.k.a. Laswerman are there to help you every step of the way. When I visited Lisa and her crew I decorated a very unique candle by blowing through a straw on dripped paint. I also worked on a laser engraver and personalized coasters on slate. I had never done either and it was both easy and fun. All the products that Lisa has to

CRE8: One of a kind giftsgifts

paula monette ethierpaula monette ethier steven king photography steven king photography

BY

This is just a small sampling of what you can create at CRE8

HAPPYHOLIDAYS from Maegan, Lisa and Stephanie

BAYSTATEPARENT 33

January 5th 1-3pm(Snow date January 6th)

910 BOSTON TURNPIKE, SHREWSBURY, MA508-842-5500 • ELITEDANCE-MA.COM

[email protected] WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ELITEDANCE

Elite Academy of DanceMassachusetts Premier Dance Studio

New Year Classes beginning in December! Register for one of these classes

as a new student and receive your FIRST MONTH OF TUITION FREE

and $10 OFF your registration fee!

Preschool Ages 3-4 years old Saturdays 10:15-11:00am

Combo Ages 5-6 years old Saturdays 12:30-1:30pm

If you are an existing student and you refer a friend who registers for one of these classes you will receive a free

week of Summer Dance Camp!

By registering for these classes your dancer will still be allowed to participate in Recital! Register Today!

Registration information and fees: $15 Registration fee

1 Class per month = $56.001 Recital Costume = $75.00 (tights included)

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offer are high quality and most projects only take about an hour. Most items range from $15-35, and to defer cost of the machines, there is a 20% studio fee. Though she’s now running her own studio, she and the Cre8 Crew still finds time to do commercial work as well. “It is my hope that Cre8 becomes a place for people to come and laugh, have fun and to try something new….a creative community where you can share your ideas and passion,” Lisa says. “I think of it as a giant play room for all ages.” Cre8 offers classes, but you can also drop in Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday noon to 5 p.m. to make any cre8tion that you’d like.

This December Cre8 offers:

Kids Classes for ages 7-12. Children must be accompanied by a guardian. $10 per class plus 20% Studio Fee.

Classes to make personalized ornaments will be held December 5, 12 and 19 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.Wednesday, December 26 Acrylic Bracelets 11 a.m. to noonThursday, December 27, Sandblasting 11 a.m. to noonFriday, December 28, T-Shirts 11 a.m. to noon

Family Day for ages 6-99. Sunday, December 9 12pm-3pm and Sunday, December 16 noon to 3 p.m. Come in and make personalized ornaments for the

holidays and enjoy cookies and milk! $20 per person, classes are limited to 16 per class.

Classes change monthly, so make sure to check out Cre8 at cre8diystudio.com or like them on Facebook at facebook.com/Cre8diy to view daily cre8ations.

Ongoing

Birthday Parties for ages 6-96. Packages range from $15-$20 per person (depending on what item you choose). You are welcome to bring in cake, ice cream etc.Girls Night Out! Bring your friends,

wine, crackers and cheese and have some creative fun! Tuesday-Fridays from 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Packages range in price from $20-$30 per person (depending on the items you choose)

Groups: have a dance troop, scout troop, sports team etc.? Book a party and personalize shirts for youra organization.

For more information contact Lisa at 508-865-2800 or [email protected]

Cre8 is located at 22 West St., Millbury, MA in the newly renovated Felters Mill.

Don’t have time to create but want a gift

for that special occasion? Lisa will soon be offering pre-made items that clients have made and are for sale.

34 DECEMBER2012

The NOT SOWELCOMEGuest!

HAPPYHOLIDAYS

He then made his way into our tissue box (I’m not sure what we’ll do if we get sick), a box of candy and even tried to make a little cash from our piggy bank. Has the elf caused any trouble in your house? Send us a note and tell us what he’s gotten into at your house at [email protected].

Elf on the Shelf:So many families will be visited by the Elf on the Shelf this holiday season, and sometimes he can get into a bit of mischief. He made an early visit to the offi ces at baystateparent and made some music for our stuffed dog to enjoy and tried to cut up our graphic designer’s Chia Pet. Luckily we caught him.

BAYSTATEPARENT 35

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17th Annual

Celebration of Children’s Literature

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paula monette ethier, creative directorstephanie mallard, graphic designerjennifer lucarelli, editorsteven king, photographer

36 DECEMBER2012

508.329.3393www.westboroughwicks.com

True candlemaking is an art.

We candle artisans believe ours is a craft no machine can replicate. That’s why at Westborough Wicks, every scent is still hand-blended and every jar always hand poured. This traditional process ensures our 100% organic soy offerings smell sweeter and fuller than any others. Not to mention we use cotton wicks, recycled packaging, and hand pour (right here in Westborough) which all helps our planet just a little.

Discover the perfect candle for your home or special occasion today.

6 East Main Street, Westborough, MA(located on the rotary in downtown Westborough)

Come visit our new shop!

Soft Opening: December 2nd, 3-7pm Please join us this festive season as we celebrate with Westborough’s Holiday Stroll, Tree Lighting, and visit from St. Nick!

Grand Opening: December 9th, 12-5pm Shop our all-natural soy candles and handcrafted eco-friendly gifts, enter to win a gift basket, and to the fi rst 25 customers — receive a free holiday gift!

Hand Poured Candles from

N ot many people have the holidays on their mind in August. They’re busy enjoying

the summer weather. But at La Salette Shrine in Attleboro, preparation begins in the summer to make the beautiful holiday displays each year. “People come every year and find peace and joy,” says Brother David Eubank of La Salette Shrine. “Seeing the lights is a combination of a lot of things and some even feel like God brings them here.” Back in 1953 when the shrine opened, the first light displays were set up with just 350 lights. That’s when the holiday tradition began, but every year it has grown to be a favorite stop for many families and visitors and more than 300,000 lights are part of the shrine’s majestic display. The shrine’s story dates back to Sept. 19, 1846 when the Blessed Mother appeared to two shepherd children at La Salette, a small hamlet in the French Alps. Through the children she gave her message of reconciliation to the world. She insisted that this message be made known to all her people. The province in France is known as the Province of Mary, Mother of the Americas. The shrine is an Apostolic, religious community. In 1942, the La Salette missionaries bought the Attleboro property as a major seminary, and in 1952 the construction of the Shrine began. The Feast of the Immaculate Conception, December 8, 1953, marked the official opening of the Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette. From this beginning to today they have united our gifts and talents with those of the laity. The shrine is located at 947 Park Street in Attleboro, and next year it will be

celebrating 60 years of welcoming visitors and families during the holiday season and throughout the year. “We usually have several hundred thousand visitors each year during Christmas,” Brother Eubank says. “It’s been a family event and tradition since the shrine opened.” When you enter the shrine, there is Christmas music playing and everywhere you look are symbols of the holiday. There is an area of the Stations of the Cross and a large nativity scene. This year’s theme is Descending Dove because Jesus is the reason for the season and he represents the descending dove in good times and in bad, according to Brother Eubank. The shrine opens on Thanksgiving weekend each year and thanks to more than 260 volunteers and staff, the shrine is open throughout the holiday season. “We also have a bistro that serves hot cocoa and hot totties, kettle corn, Portuguese bread and for the first time this year, we are offering soft serve ice cream,” Brother Eubank says. “There are also concerts during the weekends.” Concerts scheduled include Los Hijos De Maria Santa from New Jersey, the Teen Challenge New England Choir, the URI Symphony Orchestra & Choir and Ayla Brown to name a few. If you want to beat the crowds, get to the shrine early to make sure to get parking. A daily mass is held at 4 p.m. with a blessing before the lights are turned on at 5 p.m. The shrine is open until 9 p.m. through New Year’s Day. For a complete program and more information about concerts and events during the Christmas season, visit lasalette-shrine.org or call 508-222-5410.

A Magical DisplayA Magical DisplayLa Salette Shrine: La Salette Shrine:

jennifer lucarellijennifer lucarelliBY

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CAPTUREDCAPTURED

LETTERS TO SANTA: Noah Griffi n, 4, of North Grafton meets Santa at Harvey’s Farm in Westborough.

SUGAR PLUM FAIRIES: Nina, 6, and Alana Marchetti, 5, of Leominster enjoy a sugar plum tea at the Ritz Carlton in Boston.

GETTING READY: Tatiana Ortiz, 1 ½, of Milford, loves all the holiday cheer.

Happy Happy HolidaysHolidays

SO EXCITED: Ava, 18 months old, can’t wait for Christmas to come this year.

bsp is looking for winter photos for our January issue. Email photos to [email protected] by Dec. 5. Don’t forget to include your child’s name, age, town and where the photo was taken.

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.com

THOSE CHEEKS: Christian Mead, 5 months old, is all dressed up and ready for Santa.

CAN’T WAIT: Isabella Stanley, 3, loves the Christmas tree as she waits for Santa to come.

DISNEY CHRISTMAS: Rebekka, 10, and Rachael Frechette, 14, of Gardner, celebrate Christmas down south

at Epcot in Disney.

A SPECIAL HOLIDAY: Nicholas D’Kota Moll, 11, of Bellingham,

gets a visit from Santa.

CUTTING A TREE: Colin, Madeline and Catherine Spinney make each other laugh at a Christmas tree farm in Grafton.

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38 DECEMBER2012

6), finding an airline with free in-flight movies is almost as important as choosing a comfortable flight time. “I put a price on it. I’m willing to budget up to $50 a ticket for some things. For $300 for our family of six, it can be worth it to me to find a good flight time or direct flight,” she said. “These are all factors.” Anya Clowers, RN, travel comfort specialist and author of jetwithkids.com, said that parents should also consider the best seats for their children. Window locations, she said, are best for car seats or child restraint systems. “I actually prefer the window seat for a child and car seat simply because with the parent in the middle seat, there is less stimulation from other passengers. Parents are able to turn toward the child and form a private area to interact and converse,” she said. Clowers recommended the very last rows of an airplane for families with young children. The location provides less of an audience for little ones who might be acting out, she said, and the noise from the jets can help to mask cries or conversation.

2. Prepare for Take Off Start early to ensure an easy trip. Allow several days to adjust sleep schedules and diet and think about what to pack in the carry-on bag for each child. “Someone once told me to have enough stuff, like snacks, for three times as long as we planned to be traveling,” said Colebourn, when asked about the best advice she had for flying with kids. “Layovers happen, and you can get stuck waiting on the tarmac.” Linda Townsend, Westborough mother of three boys (ages 13, 11 and 8), has been

traveling with her children since they were born. She said it took a lot of trial and error to find the best carry-on packing plan. “They pack their backpacks with the most important things to them: snacks, electronics, drawing supplies, stuffed animals and blankets. We talk ahead of time, and they have whatever they feel is important to them,” she said. But more importantly than what is packed, said Townsend, is discussing expectations. “It takes a lot of mental prep. We make sure they know how long we will be traveling; if there is a layover and what is expected. There is lots of talking. It definitely makes a difference. If they are prepared, they are less antsy. It helps a huge amount.”

3. Arrive Early Because airports can be exciting for young children, allow plenty of time to explore the new surroundings and keep from being rushed. At Logan Airport in Boston, there are two free play areas called Kidports. The first is in Terminal A, past security in the satellite building by Gate 18. It includes a kid-sized replica of the control tower and slides. The second is in Terminal C, past security, in the area prior to Gate 25. Climbing structures there include replicas of vintage airplanes. Both play areas are adjacent to concessions and restrooms. “It’s a good place to eat and play and get the wiggles out before the plane,” said Townsend. Logan also offers rocking chairs, family restrooms with changing stations and rooms for nursing mothers. Public service representatives at information booths

on the lower level of each terminal can point out directions to these services, each helping to keep children settled during the chaos of air travel. “Recognize air travel involves lines and waiting and unrealistic things for little kids. Surrounding them with a customized ‘bubble of calm’ can do wonders when traveling. Take time to enjoy the experience and recognize it is all part of the memories,” Clowers said.

4. Enjoy the Flight Despite the few passengers who might sneer at the thought of sitting near your children, a pleasant flight is possible. Keeping your children calm, busy and happy is key. “Of course, they will not all sit down just because they are told to do so. Instead make it a game to buckle up before the flight crew comes over to check,” Clowers suggested. Colebourn said she fills a backpack with small, inexpensive, new items. “I tell the kids that in a half hour, we can all open a present,” she said, adding that the novelty of the toys keeps the kids busy for a while. “Electronics used appropriately can really help when asking kids to stand or sit for long periods of time. Download a calming video or an audio book or let them look at photos,” said Clowers. She also recommended noise-canceling headphones for napping or just to keep noise at a calm level. “Interact with your child. Read to them, talk to them, show them photos on your digital camera,” she said. “I have found that simple things such as packing double side tape to place photos on the back of the seat in front of my child was not only entertaining to talk about with him, but

Flying with the Family:

Success Comes with a

Flight Plan

Most parents boarding a plane with young children have felt the stares of fellow passengers who dread the idea of sharing a plane with someone who hasn’t hit puberty. In a number of national surveys, flying with noisy children repeatedly ranks among the top gripes of frequent fliers. In an effort to address those frustrations, a couple of airlines are now offering child-free seating sections. Beginning in February 2013, passengers flying on Air Asia will be able to choose one of seven rows of seating reserved for those 12 and older. The designated baby-free area is being dubbed the Quiet Zone, offering seats near the front of the plane and soft lighting. The move follows a decision by Malaysian Airlines to ban children from the top deck of its A380 flights, and it underscores the challenges of flying with children. For many, heading home for the holidays means hitting the airport at its peak season. It can also mean unexpected tantrums from both kids and adults, eye rolling from strangers and a sense of defeat before reaching a destination. But seasoned family travelers know that a good flight plan can steer your trip in its best direction, and they share their tips.

1. Map the Right Route for Your Crew

Tranquil travels begin with the right flight. This includes choosing flight times that work for your family, avoiding short layovers and considering child-friendly airline amenities. For Jenn Colebourn, Westborough mom of four young boys (ages 11, 10, 8 and

maryjo kurtzmaryjo kurtzBY

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was a deterrent for kicking the seat in front of him.”

5. Prepare for Arrival Once the flight has landed, take time to regroup. Stop in the restroom for a change of clothing and to wash hands, take a minute to recharge electronics at a nearby outlet, and assess everyone’s hunger and thirst. If you will be going through customs, prepare your children. “I tell the kids what they will be asked to do. I explain that now is not a time to fool around and be silly,” said Colebourn. And remember to praise each child for his or her good behavior. “We’ve disturbed people in the past, and we’ve met people who weren’t very kind, but the boys are now seasoned travelers,” said Townsend. “They are three really good boys because we’re prepared.” “I get looks from people in general when we travel with our four boys. But when we exit the plane, we usually hear nice comments like how the boys were so well-behaved,” said Colebourn. She paused for a few seconds and then laughed, “Maybe they weren’t expecting it.”

MaryJo Kurtz is a freelance journalist and mother of two. She can be reached at

[email protected] or visit www.maryjokurtz.com.

Making a Difference

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40 DECEMBER2012

Jennifer’s days are a whirlwind of activity during the holiday season as she balances her roles as mother to Sophia, 9, and Stella, 6, wife to her high school sweetheart and director of dance at Ballet Arts Worcester. She admits that she is constantly striving for balance through days filled with the needs of her “three” children - two daughters and a thriving dance school. Her biggest secret weapon? A mother, mother-in-law, and a very supportive, hands-on husband. “They know I’m doing my best to balance everything, especially at this time of year when our Nutcracker production is in full swing, and they are so willing to be there for whatever I need. I am incredibly grateful - there is no way I could it without them!” she says. When her girls are off to school in the morning, Jennifer’s first part of the day is spent fielding phone calls, talking to parents, returning emails and all the many details that come along with running a business - something she admits involved a big learning curve. Dancing from a very early age, Jennifer went on to earn a dance degree from the prestigious Tisch School of the Arts at New York University and dance professionally for two years in New York City before returning to Massachusetts. “The art part comes easily to me - I have always passionately loved to dance. But I did not go to school for business, and it was not something that I ever thought I would do! Honestly, if I could rewind I would do a double major in business and psychology and minor in dance,” she says. But she is a risk taker and when families in the area came to her and urged her to start a dance school (she was four months pregnant with Stella at the time), she took the leap of faith. Each afternoon during the week brings Jennifer’s very favorite 20 minutes of the day - picking her girls up from school. “When I see them walk across the parking lot from school, it makes me realize that maybe my life is doable!” she says. “Even if

the morning was crazy, seeing their smiles and their bright eyes just makes my day.” Before going to teach dance in the afternoon, she spends the car ride home with her girls listening to their favorite parts of their day and just being there to connect. Her girls often do homework and eat dinner with their grandparents or her husband, while Jennifer teaches and runs evening rehearsals. Her girls, she says, are very flexible and patient with her—that is she is not a mom that is home when they are home. Jennifer performed right up to her delivery with Stella and both girls have always been “studio rats,” as she calls them. She is the first to admit that it is a constant struggle to balance the needs of her business and motherhood, but a balance she thinks is important for her girls to see. “I danced all my life, and I knew I wanted to have some connection in this field as an adult,” she says. “I got the chance to dance professionally and now I’m getting the chance to be a wife and mother. It is important to me that my girls see that whatever you start you can follow through with; that you can follow your passion, be a mom and have an education and a career.” In addition to the birth of her dance school six years ago, Jennifer began producing a Nutcracker production in Worcester which adds the aspects of meeting set designers, theatre and musical directors, and doing public relations for the November production every year. “Every major city has a Nutcracker production, and we wanted to bring that to Worcester,” she says. “There is such amazing talent in this area and every year we hold an open audition. It’s a chance for dancers, no matter where they train, to have the opportunity to work with a live orchestra, a choir and professional dancers. It is such a multi-faceted production and has been so cool for this city.” Jennifer firmly believes in encouraging

Jennifer AgbayJennifer AgbayOf WEST BOYLSTON

Age: 37

Mom of: Sophia, 9 and Stella, 6

Occupation/Business: Director of Dance at Ballet Arts Worcester

MOMSROCK!

mandy mulliez, steven king photographyBY

the young dancers at Ballet Arts Worcester to go out in the world and obtain all they can to support their dance education. She feels strongly that one dance school, one person or one philosophy should not be the only influence in shaping them. Their dance school is made better and stronger, she says, by students bringing all their life experiences back in and helping them all to grow as a dance “family.” As dancers advance in their training, the sacrifices and time commitments become more intense - something Jennifer knows about first hand. She believes, in her own life and in her business, that the method for success is to support one another, and she strives to do just that for the students in her school - not just as a dance teacher, but often as a confidante and mentor. So what’s the first thing she does when the Nutcracker wraps every year and her schedule finally slows down? She volunteers at her husband’s family run business - Wicked Good Cookies - bagging and bowing their famous cookies, something she finds therapeutic after the hectic schedule she’s juggled for so many months. “Just when my busy time ends, theirs begins and I want to support them just like they’ve supported me,” she says. That is, after all, what life is all about.

Take 15 Take 15 with Jenniferwith Jennifer

1. What is your family philosophy? You are kind to everyone, you play with everyone and you treat everyone with respect. On top of it all - be a good person, because it is the right thing to do!

2. Family pet? We have a dog named Clarice. She is a Calihouna Leopard/Australian mix. She loves to run and begs for table scraps!

3. What are your kids current favorite books and why? Our current bedtime reading is: Book 3: Ivy and Bean Break the Fossil Record. My Sophia has always been smitten with dinosaurs, suggesting that maybe one day she would like to be a paleontologist. And my Stella just thinks Bean’s disastrous antics are hilarious!

4. What is the secret to a good family relationship? Unconditional love, trust and good communication.

5. Where are your favorite places to visit in MA and why? Cape Cod and Humarock on the South Shore. We love the beaches, the ocean and ice cream visits at night after a long beach day.

BAYSTATEPARENT 41

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6. What is your social media mentality as a parent? Luckily, my children are too young to participate in the mainstream social media and my participation is poor as well, as I don’t have enough time to commit to it. I have so many other areas that need my attention - it’s too bad social media can’t help me with my laundry!!!!

7. What is your favorite family pastime? Watching our children perform daily at the house! They put on an after-dinner show every night! We never know the repertoire, but my husband and I have the best seats in the house to watch! We have so much fun! 8. What do you like most about living in West Boylston? What I love about the town of West Boylston is the great community. I have seen this town come together to embrace and support families in times of need and celebration.

9. Who are your mentors and why? My parents and my in-laws. I have learned so much from them about raising a business, raising children, raising a husband and coping with the unexpected events in life.

10. What is a typical “proud mom” moment for you? When a teacher, parent or friend recognizes that your children are the ones who play with everyone in the class and treat their peers with dignity and respect .

11. What is your wish for your kids? Simply to be happy.

12. What does parent involvement mean to you? Being present. Knowing that if they look back, they can see you in their clear vision, holding a hand and skipping in the Target parking lot. Pushing them ahead with encouragement in the classroom, on the performance stage or on the softball field.

13. What is one sentence to describe you? I am ambitious, energetic, loud,

passionate, giving and cannot breathe without dance!

14. What’s your best stress management technique? Acupuncture! It is scheduled restoration. It’s the one thing that really helps me relieve the stress. I’ve done it for the past two years and it is truly amazing. The second thing I would say is chocolate.

15. What is one thing you wish you had

more time to do? I always look for that 25th hour. If I had an eighth day, I would put my family in a bubble where we could just do whatever we want and have fun.

Mandy Mulliez is a freelance writer, photographer, and mother of two

who shares her work at mandymulliezphotography.com/blog.

42 DECEMBER2012

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44 DECEMBER2012

Teenage moodiness or a mood disorder?

JUSTAROUNDTHECORNER

katherine jacante, ariela kristantina illustratorkatherine jacante, ariela kristantina illustratorBY

where is the line between teenage moodiness and significant mental health concerns? What are the signs? How can a parent

be attuned to behavior and mental health without being paranoid? Are you familiar with the expression ‘it takes a village to raise a child?’ Parenting in a small town, or in any community for that matter, invites you to be part of a village. Whether you are a Sunday school teacher, a sports coach or a classroom volunteer, you have moments of responsibility to other people’s children. You get to know them, you care about them. And nothing prepares you for the call from another mom telling you she cannot be the person running the bake sale table at the holiday band concert that night because her 15-year-old son has attempted suicide. I have known Sue* for 10 years. We are not extremely close, but we have carpooled kids, worked on committees together—we are friends. Her youngest child is the same age as my oldest, and I have looked at her as a bit of a role model. She is the mother of four children, a multitasking volunteer in the schools, in her church and in the various programs her children choose as their passions. Each of Sue’s children is well-behaved, polite, someone you are happy to have around. At least that was the case until her youngest, Evan*, seemed to start to rebel around age 13. At times, he became surly with adults and peers alike. Despite his previous love of the game, he decided he did not want to play on the soccer team. He became “a handful,” testing his parents, getting into trouble at school, having stretches of behaving in ways we village folk would say was out of character for him. From my conversations with Sue, I knew she was worried and she recognized this behavior was different than her experience with her other children, but she (and I) chalked it

up to being a teenager. Some children are more challenging than others. Then things got worse. Evan ended up in juvenile court; the family became well acquainted with the Department of Children and Families. Sue and her husband seemed to become persons of interest, as if somehow, their parenting was lacking or there was something “going on at home.” Or worse, that Evan was a bad seed, the black sheep in the family. No mom wants to hear or believe that of their child, but sadly, there are cases where kids are just not what you might have hoped they would be. After nearly more than a year of significant turmoil, Evan swallowed a bottle of pills and was found unresponsive by his brother in their shared bedroom. Thankfully, help arrived in time to save Evan’s life. He was hospitalized and after a considerable period of evaluation was diagnosed with bi-polar disorder. He could speak with his parents by telephone while receiving his initial treatment, but he did not see his family for several months. Meanwhile, my friend Sue was beside herself with worry, guilt, and the burden of keeping the nature of Evan’s illness quiet because of the stigma so many people attach to depressive disorders. She didn’t want Evan to come back to school and have people think of him as “the kid who went crazy.” All of this sounds unhappily familiar to Julie Totten, president of Families for Depression Awareness, a non-profit organization located in Waltham that helps families recognize and cope with depressive disorders to get people well and prevent suicides. Their website, familyaware.org, offers some disheartening statistics. Teen depression is not uncommon, with one in five children experiencing some form of depression by the end of their teen years. The average age of depression onset is 14. Nearly 80 percent of teens with depression don’t receive help for a variety of reasons,

after nearly more than a year of significant turmoil, evan

swallowed a bottle of pills and was found

unresposive by his brother in their shared bedroom.

BAYSTATEPARENT 45

and untreated depression can lead to substance abuse, academic failure, other disorders (an eating disorder for example) or suicide. Think about that for a moment. Do you know five of your children’s friends? Do you know 20 of their classmates? Chances are you know a teenager who suffers from or will experience some degree of depressive disorder. So what can we do as parents? Totten suggests that all parents educate themselves and their children about depression as part of regular family discussion about health and well being. “Mental health should be integrated with physical health,” she says. “All the things recommended for good physical well being applies to mental health as well; get enough sleep, eat nutritious food, exercise your body, don’t spend considerable amounts of time in sedentary pursuits. In addition to teaching our children about the importance of these basics, we should teach our children how to express their feelings. Expressing themselves, talking about how they are feeling, is a skill set parents can help their child build beginning at an early age.” At a very young age, children can understand that being sad sometimes is part of life, but feeling hopeless or sad for long periods of time is not something we have to accept. Children can also be taught that depression is a medical condition like many others and can be treated, not something to be spoken of in whispers. So we talk to our children and treat mental health as a part of overall well being. What happens when they reach that mysterious threshold, the teenage years, the time when parents are led to believe challenging behavior is normal, a rite of passage even. While there are a variety of warning signs (see box), Totten encourages parents to be on the lookout for what she refers to as the Big Three: If you see increased prolonged

irritability, your child seems angry all the time; if he/she loses interest in the things they used to enjoy, quits a team, doesn’t hang out with friends; if your child verbalizes suicidal thoughts, saying “I wish I was dead,” I’d be better off dead,” or “if I was gone no one would miss me.” “If your child, or any child, expresses suicidal thoughts, you need to take it very seriously and seek help right away,” says Totten. Start with your primary care physician, seek referrals, but be prepared, there is a significant shortage of adolescent psychiatrists and getting your child the help they need may be an arduous process. Totten also suggests that if there is a family history of depressive disorders, a parent may want to arrange for a mental health care provider to conduct annual screenings, just as we do for physicals. “If your family has a history of mood disorders, use that history as a conversation starter about depression as a medical condition, something that can be treated and controlled. It is also important to note that if a family member has a mood disorder, the closer the relation, the more it matters in evaluating your own child. Because it is hard to identify mental health issues in a child — particularly teens — understanding your family tree can help you be alert to the warning signs.” Taking proactive steps to see the whole child puts you in a better position to catch trouble early and helps your child address any issues as they arise. Plus, if you seek screening and mental health checkups with a professional caregiver, your child is already established as a patient if a need arises. Again, this may call for strong advocacy from a parent, and there is the possibility you may pay out of pocket, but it is proactive time and money well spent. What about the stigma that goes along with mental illness? Teaching tolerance and empathy is also something we can instill in our children at a young age. It is

signs that you should seek some help

(courtesy of Families for Depression Awareness)

Depressed, irritable, sad, or empty mood for at least 2 weeks

Decreased interest or enjoyment in once-favorite activities and people

Changes in appetite, eating too much or too little, signifi cant weight loss or gain

Sleeping too much or too little

Physical agitation or slowness

Fatique or loss of energy

Low self-esteem, feeling guilty

Decreased ability to concentrate, indecisive

Unexplained aches and pains

Recurrent suicidal thoughts or behavior

Irritable or cranky mood, preoccupation with song lyrics that suggest life is meaningless

Loss of interest in sports or other activities, withdrawal from friends and family, relationship problems

Failure to gain weight as normally expected

Excessive late-night TV, having diffi culty falling asleep or staying asleep, having trouble getting up in the morning

Inability to sit still, taking a long time to complete normal tasks, pacing back and forth, and/or excessive repetition of behaviors

Social withdrawal, napping, withdrawal from usual activities, boredom

Making critical comments about themselves, having behavior problems at home or school, being overly sensitive to rejection

Poor performance at school, drop in grades, frequent absences

Frequent complaints of physical pain (headache, stomach ache)

Writing about death, giving away favorite toys or belongings, “You’d be better off without me.”

not Evan’s fault he has this illness. He will always have to pay special attention to his health and his moods. But he can manage and be successful in his life. As parents, teachers and villagers, we can point out to our children that many successful people have achieved great things while living with depressive disorders (think Mozart, Gaugin, Buzz Aldrin, Abraham Lincoln, Beyoncé, Robert Downey, Jr., J.K. Rowling, Sting and Demi Lovato). If we offer this kind of thinking to our children now, maybe the next generation will think of their friends with depressive disorders in the same way they think of people with high blood pressure or diabetes, who take some form of medication on a daily basis to stay healthy. I am happy to be writing this article in hindsight, nearly two years after Evan attempted suicide. He is back on track, enjoying school and friends, and occasionally has to adjust his medication, but now he and his family recognize what’s happening. Being bipolar is part of Evan’s life, but it does not rule his life.

For more information and online screening tests for your child or yourself, please check out these web sites.

familyaware.orgnamimetrowest.org

helpguide.org/mental/depression_teen.htm

mayoclinic.com/health/teen-depression/MY00937

*The names of the subjects in this series of articles have been changed to protect

their privacy.

** Katherine Jacante is a writer and mother of two teenagers living in Central Massachusetts. She uses a pseudonym to

protect her relationship with her children and other families who may recognize themselves in

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Attorney James Connors ........................................ 39Baystate Skating School ........................................ 20Beacon ABA Services ............................................. 39Becker College ..................................................... 13Boroughs JCC ....................................................... 10Boston Ballet ....................................................... 31Children’s Garden/VNA .......................................... 21Clay Time ............................................................ 23CoCo Key Water Resort .......................................... 21 Commerce Bank ................................................... 43Concord Museum .................................................. 35Cornerstone Academy ............................................ .3Criterion Child Enrichment ...................................... 23Cutie Patuties ....................................................... 29Dance It Up ......................................................... 12Dance Prism ......................................................... 25Dexter - Southfielod Schools ................................... 35Dr. McCarty .......................................................... 20Dr. Mel Pediatric Dentistry ...................................... 26Ecotarium ............................................................ 24Elite Dance .......................................................... 33Fay School .......................................................... 36Fidelity.................................................................51God’s Little Children .............................................. 18Guild of St. Agnes ................................................. 39Hanover Theatre ................................................... 52Inn at East Hill ..................................................... 25

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INDEX

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HAVE YOU HEARD?

ADVERTISING PROMOTION

The EcoTarium, New England’s leading science and nature center, recently announced a $500,000 grant from The Hanover Insurance Group Foundation to its Third Century Plan. The grant will fund a matching gift program for corporate donors and support new educational outreach programs. The EcoTarium’s Third Century Plan, named in recognition of its 200th anniversary, to be celebrated in 2025, provides an exhibit master plan—with new exhibits about mountain, forest, ocean and urban environments—as well as enhancements to educational programming, animal habitats, and guest amenities.

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BAYSTATEPARENT 51

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Join us and let’s see if we can break the record for the most Santa hats in Worcester on Saturday, December 15th at 7pm

Show your Price Chopper Advantage Card at the box office or mention it on the phone when you buy your tickets to A Christmas Carol on Sunday, Dec. 23rd at 1 pm and 50% of your ticket price will benefit the Worcester County Food Bank.

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Now starring Jeremy Lawrence as Ebenezer Scrooge!

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For tickets visit TheHanoverTheatre.org or call 877.571.SHOW (7469)Discounts available for members, groups, kids, students, and WOO card holders.

STAY CONNECTED! GET THE INSIDE SCOOP ON AUDITIONS, CAST PARTIES, PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES, CONTESTS, DISCOUNTS, SPECIAL PROMOTIONS, PACKAGES AND MORE. SIGN UP FOR OUR ONLINE NEWSLETTER, FIND US ON FACEBOOK, AND FOLLOW US ON TWITTER.

Photo: Scott Erb

presented by

Media partnerssMedia pap rtnerss

DECEMBER 1 Diane Kelley’s Holiday Spectacular

5 Jim Brickman On a Winter’s Night In partnership with March of Dimes

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18 Christmas Celtic Sojourn Sponsored by Fallon Community Health Plan

21-23 A Christmas Carol Sponsored by Bank of America

28-30 West Side Story

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18-20 Sesame Street Live

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6-7 Shen Yun

8 Mike Birbiglia’s My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend Sponsored by Nichols College

9 Sandy Hackett’s Rat Pack Show Sponsored by Commerce Bank

10 The Temptations and The Four Tops Sponsored by Commerce Bank

21 Celtic Woman Sponsored by Commerce Bank

22 The Broadway Boys

New shows and promotions are added all the time! Visit TheHanoverTheatre.org for up-to-the minute

event lists and information.

Receive free passes to skate at the

with every holiday purchase through December 31, 2012.

December 2012 baystateparent Magazine

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Transcript of December 2012 baystateparent Magazine