wnc parent july 2009

W N C P A R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L A C E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T 1

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c o n t e n t s

P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802 828-232-5845 I www.wncmom.com

PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHERRandy Hammer

WNC PARENT EDITORNancy Sluder

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FEATURES EDITORBruce Steele

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STAFF WRITERBarbara Blake

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ADVERTISINGMiranda Weerheim - 232-5980

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Lisa Field - [email protected]

WNC PARENT DESIGNERKatie Wadington

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P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802-2090 CALENDAR CONTENT

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Advertising deadline for the August issue is July 14Calendar items are due by July 14

In every issue

This month’s features

On the cover

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Planning a child’s birthday party can be a fun, albeit asometimes overwhelming task. Finding the right venue,theme, games and then penning a list of invitees can takeboth time and money, but the rewards of the perfect partyare boundless.

When I planned my daughters’ 1st birthday party, I knewit was more for me, my parents and especially for the pho-tos, than for them. At the ripe old age of 1, they had littleidea what was going on around them, but now, at 16, canlook back at the photos and know that Winnie the Poohwas the theme and know who was there to celebrate withthem. Working around the naptimes at this age seemed to be my biggest chal-lenge; however, all things considered, this momentous occasion came off fairlysmoothly. For tips on planning a 1st birthday party, see our story on .

Being a mother to twins, a story on dealing with birthday parties for mul-tiples seemed worthwhile. There are different challenges associated with aparty for two or more, and hopefully our story on Page 6 will help.

As my daughters grew, the parties became more involved and their partici-pation much more substantial than in that first one, but each is a memorableevent, documented in pictures that do make all the agonizing and planning soworthwhile. I hope this issue of WNC Parent helps our readers to pull off thatperfect birthday celebration.

Birthday party planningcan be fun and challenging

Nancy SluderEditor

Kids Voices .......................................................16Growing Together by Chris Worthy..........................31Show and Tell ...............................................32-33Librarian’s Picks by Jennifer Prince ...........................34Divorced Families by Trip Woodard ............................36WNCmom.com Page ...........................................37Kids in Sports ...................................................41Video Games ....................................................42Parenting in a Nutshell .......................................43Story Times ......................................................44Puzzles................................................................46-47Calendar .....................................................48-55

Photo special toWNC Parent.

The 1st birthdayTips for making your child’s 1stbirthday party an easy one.On a shoestring budgetThrow a kid-approved birthdaybash without spending a fortuneby following these suggestions.Party of 2 (or 3)Hosting a party for twins or trip-lets takes a bit more finesse thanyour average party. Here are a fewideas.Beyond cakeBored with birthday cakes? Trysomething different this year, likecupcakes, ice cream, cookies andmore.A different sort of partyDitch the traditional party ideasand go with something morecreative, like a book swap or ascavenger hunt. Just for boysNeed a party with some action forthe boy in your life? Try climbing.Or swimming. Or a bit of every-thing.The Birthday GuideAn essential list of places to havea party, makers of sweet birthdaytreats, entertainment, party plan-ners, photographers and supplystores across Western NorthCarolina.

Coupon secretsBe a savvy shopper — follow ourtips to help save a bundle at thestore.Thai on the grillAdd some spice to dinnertimewith these Thai recipes for thegrill.Grilled veggiesNeed a new summer side dish?Try corn or an onion on the grill.

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“You want the people who canreally celebrate with you, people whohave been there from the very begin-ning. They know how special the dayis,” Owen said.

The number of people you decideto invite to the celebration shouldprimarily depend on your family’spreferences and the child’s persona-lity. Know what the child can handle.It is easy for a child this young to beover-stimulated and become upset.

Also keep in mind how much youcan handle. Do not invite a largecrowd if you do not have sufficienthelp with preparation and supervi-sion.

Owen and her husband decided togo big for their daughter Lydia’s 1st

Any photograph of a baby’s 1stbirthday usually has several key fea-tures: The child sits behind a heavily-frosted cake bearing one candle, birth-day hat askew. Undoubtedly, face andfingers are smeared with icing.

The classic photograph, found inalmost every family’s photo archives,illustrates a special milestone for boththe child and the parents, who havejust come through their first year onthe roller coaster of parenthood.

“Baby has made a lot of progressthat first year, and as parents yousurvived. So to celebrate that is awe-some, even though your child doesn’t‘get it’ very much,” said Brecken Ru-land, whose son Judah is now 27months old.

Many new parents are excited tomark the occasion, but wonder howbest to do so. Because this is baby’s 1stbirthday, it is often the parents’ firsttime throwing a child’s birthday party.Inevitably, questions abound.

We talked to several area parentsand asked them to give us their list ofdos and don’ts when it came to cele-brating No. 1.

Whom to invite?Many parents wonder if they

should ring in the first year by havinga big blowout with everyone theyknow, or keep the guest list to just afew close family members and friends.

Whether you decide to go big orsmall, parents say you want to be withpeople who know how significant theday is for your family.

Serena Owen, a cake artist withArtista Cakes, who also loves to planparties, says that on the 1st birthday itis important to surround yourself withpeople who have been with youthroughout the journey of the firstyear.

birthday, filling their house and yardwith guests. She said the party was ablast, but it took months of prepara-tion to gather supplies and set up.

Although the big party can be fun,many families prefer a small, intimatecelebration with just a few familymembers and friends who have playeda significant role in the child’s life.

This is what WCQS radio announ-cer Ken Adams and his wife, Nicole,wished they had done after they threwtheir daughter Olivia’s 1st birthdayparty.

Wanting to introduce Olivia to theworld, they decided to hold a bigdance party and invite a host of familyand friends. A stream of guests beganto show up early, and the Adamses

were suddenly under the pressure tofinish preparations, entertain theirguests, and take care of birthday girlOlivia — who was in need of a nap.

“Everything took longer than weexpected,” said Adams. “It was sostressful. It felt like Nicole and I didn’thave a second to breathe. We didn’ttalk, we didn’t mingle, we didn’t eat.We were too busy to realize thatguests were having a good time. Wewere so buried by the details that wefailed to attend our own daughter’sparty.”

The experience completelychanged the Adamses’ outlook onbirthdays.

“We vowed... if we have anotherchild, they won’t get a 1st birthdayparty. Maybe that will even it out,”joked Adams.

Their advice to new parents: “Savethe bells and whistles for Sweet 16.Keep the 1st birthday celebration assimple as possible.”

Whether you decide to keep theparty big or small, there are a few keythings to remember when consideringyour guest list.

It may be fun to invite young chil-dren, but do not have them unlesstheir parents can come to help watchthem.

“We had some kids come whoseparents just dropped them off,” saidOwen, “and they were just runningaround doing who-knows-what. Wecouldn’t watch them because we wereso busy with the party.”

Ruland’s mother-in-law advised herto invite the same number of kids asthe age the child is turning, whichRuland plans to adopt.

If you invite families with infants,keep in mind that they may have toduck out early when naptime rollsaround.

The 1st birthdayTips for throwing a great — and manageable —

party as your baby turns a year old

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENTA 1st birthday party is a lot about capturing the moments so your child can see them whenhe or she is old enough to appreciate the celebration.

Kate HarrisonWNC Parent contributor

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For my son’s 7th birthday party, Iburied colorful gem stones — real anddollar store-faux — in a pile of dirt,gave the kids sticks for digging and letthem have at it.

It didn’t cost much. But, as he toldme later, it was his best birthday partyever. In fact, I could barely get someof the boys to stop digging longenough to eat a slice of birthday cake.

It was proof that you don’t need tospend oodles of cash, or time, for afun kids’ party.

Here are more ideas for throwingkid celebrations they’ll never forgetwithout spending an amount you’llnever forget.

Double upParty activities can do double duty

by also serving as the take-home gift,says Julie Fals, co-owner of Growing

Young Café, a drop-in child care/tutoring and party venue in Asheville.

At her daughter’s 3rd birthdayparty, the kids painted inexpensiveflower pots. With dirt, seeds or see-dlings and spoons, they can do theirown planting, too, she says.

Projects like decorating pictureframes or face masks, baking cookiesor beading bracelets can also be partyfavors. Or, throw inflatable ballsaround the yard for play and have kidstake them home afterward. Decorate

paper lunch bags and use them laterfor piñata candy.

Scan your child’s artwork for e-mail invitations and/or decorations.Make copies and cut into pieces for apuzzle-making contest.

Employ an older childIf there’s an older, willing sibling or

neighborhood child, tap into this inex-pensive entertainment source. Anolder child can face paint, organize

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENTGage Lawrence, right in red shirt, celebrates his 6th birthday party with friends at Haw Creek Park.

Big party on a little budgetIdeas for celebrating a child’s birthday without breaking the bank

By Pam J. HechtWNC Parent contributor


simple outdoor games or lead a sing-a-long.

Celebrate at homeScatter a few large storage boxes on

a soft surface and small children cancrawl through the “tunnels” and“trains.” Plan a scavenger hunt or try atalent show, dress-up or dance party.Decorate cupcakes or make pizza.

Opt for old standbys like pin thetail, hot potato, red light/green light,Twister, relay races or musical chairs.Create stations with different crafts,games or water activities.

Kids can make their own bubblesolution with Dawn, glycerin andwater, says Margaret Mattson, Grow-ing Young Café co-owner. Fill trays ora small wading pool and provide col-anders, slotted spoons and shapedpipe cleaners to make the bubbles.Sprinkle in tempera paint and blowbubbles with straws, capturing themon paper as bubble prints. Use a hulahoop to make a huge bubble aroundeach child.

Or, make slime, Alka Seltzer rock-ets and mini volcanoes with inex-pensive household ingredients, Matt-son says. Go online to find directions.

For older kids, a slumber partymight fit the bill, if you don’t mind alate night of revelry. Spring for pizza,popcorn and a simple breakfast. Yourchild probably has his/her own idea ofparty activities. Provide a movie after-ward, to calm the kids from their post-cake sugar high.

Pick a park, any parkSusan Lawrence threw her 6-year-

old son a bring-your-own-bike/scoot-er party at her neighborhood park inEast Asheville. She served snacks,drinks and ice cream.

“It was simple, inexpensive and theboys had a blast,” she says.

Park playgrounds can be an easyparty option. Bring blankets for apicnic or set up at a park shelter. TheAsheville Parks and Recreation De-partment, for example, charges $30 forthree hours to reserve a covered shel-ter, or you can take your chances andjust show up.

Get creative with the venueSkip the package deal, bring your

own cake and transform almost anyfun kids’ place into a party. Pizza res-taurants (like Asheville Pizza & Brew-ing Co. with its game room and $2-$3movies,) ice cream shops (some DairyQueens have an outdoor playground),miniature golf, bowling or skatingcould be good options. Or, visit a firestation or animal shelter.

Party between mealsMake it simple with punch, cake

and a snack or two. Use small toys orinexpensive objects like silk flowersor dollar store trinkets to decorate ahomemade cake, suggests Kim Dan-ger, who publishes

Mommysavers.com, an online sourceof budget- and time-saving ideas.

Keep the party smallExperts say to invite the number of

children equal to your child’s age.Older kids might prefer to have justthree or four pals in exchange for apricier activity, like a movie or mini-shopping spree at the mall.

Give an older child the reinsDanger suggests having an older

child plan his/her own party.“If you give them $100 to plan a

party and allow them to pocket whatthey don’t spend, they’re more apt tomake frugal decisions,” she says. “Andit’s a great way to help them learn tomake smart decisions with theirmoney.”

Don’t fuss with decorationsKeep it simple — a couple of bal-

loons might do the trick. Use toys andother items on hand. At a birthdayparty, friends and fun trump décor.

E-mail freelance writer Pam J. Hechtat [email protected].

ONLINE RESOURCESThese Web sites offer cost-saving partygames and tips:◆ Familyfun.go.com◆ Amazingmoms.com◆ Partygameideas.com◆ Parentingteens.about.com/od/birth-days/a/birthdayparty.htm (games forteens)◆ Orientaltrading.com (for supplies andfavors)◆ Birthdaydirect.com (for supplies andfavors)

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Planning and executing a birthday party for one childcan be both fun and challenging. Throwing a bash fortwins, triplets or other multiples has its own set of ob-stacles, but it also can be double, triple or quadruple thefun.

We asked some of the moms from the group Ashe-ville Area Mothers of Multiples to weigh in with tips onparty planning, gift giving, the all-important cake(s)decision and other issues that go along with a sharedbirthday to ensure each child feels unique and specialon this very special day.

1 party theme or multiple?“A general theme overall, but with different plates,

hats, etc.,” said Anna Mills, mother of twins.“Our parties have had one theme, usually suggested

by the cake choices,” said Susan Andrew, also a motherof twins. “One year we had a fairy theme, and one girl

wanted a butterfly cake, the other, dragonflies. So thetheme focused on pretty flying things.”

Brenda Case, mother of twin boys, said the decora-ted cake is the theme, “and I just use bright colorstreamers and balloons for the party.”

Jenn Clements said she always has two themes forher twin boys “because they are individuals.”

“I think each one [of her twin girls] is worried thather sister’s theme might be better than hers, or morefun, so I believe that is why they have so far wantedthe same theme,” said Christa Willey. “But I think it’simportant to give them each the option to have theirown theme so they do feel like they are an individu-al.”

“One common theme,” said Lisa Carver, mom oftriplet boys. “Don’t make life harder than it alreadyis.”

1 cake or 2 (or 3 or 4)?“I have boy-girl twins, and for the first three years I

did one cake,” said Jennifer Rudisill. “But on their 4th

The more the merrierPlanning a party for multiples presents double the challenge

By Barbara BlakeWNC Parent writer

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENTAlexandra and Rachel Willey shared a cake and aprincess theme for their 5th birthday.


birthday, we started having two. I letthem choose their own cake.”

“I let each child pick out a cakewith the character they like andmaybe get balloons to match,” saidTerri Frue, mother of boy/girl twinswho will turn 5 in September. “I dothink that with lots of kids being in-vited, cupcakes would be the easiest.”

“I always do one cake for each boy,”Clements said. “Plus, we usually needa large amount of cake for all the fami-ly and friends.”

“We always have two cakes, elabo-rately decorated, with themes andflavors chosen by each girl,” Andrewsaid. “They never want the samething, and this way there’s alwaysplenty of cake for a big party.”

One of Andrew’s favorite birthdayswas when she made a double-layerchocolate cake with white frosting,decorated with a carousel theme usingtoy animals and stick candy with rib-bons attached, and a yellow cake withlemon filling decorated with berries,flowers and mint leaves.

“I bake three small cakes — one foreach boy — and then have a large onefor party guests,” Carver said.

Gifts given to multiples“I do not expect guests to bring

separate gifts, especially if the guest isa friend/classmate of one and not theother,” Rudisill said. “But family andclose friends have always done sepa-rate gifts.”

“I think if someone is invited to atwins party, they should bring sepa-rate gifts,” Frue said.

“I always ask for no gifts — ifsomeone gets them a gift, it is up tothem to decide whether to bring oneor two,” Clements said.

Willey said her 7-year-old twinseach invite friends from their classes,and each guest brings a gift for whi-

chever girl is his or her classmate.“Everyone knows they are twins,though, and I have had parents sendgifts for each girl, which is verythoughtful but certainly not necessar-y.”

“One for each child or a big onewhen they are younger,” said Case.“But it’s important when they areschool aged to give one gift to each orto the one you were invited by. Toomany times they are considered ‘one’by the public. [They] have had awardsin sports and Boy Scouts that havesaid, ‘Tanner/Devin,’ and they werevery upset,” Moore said. “I am a twinwith a boy and that didn’t happen asmuch.”

“We tell our guests, ‘no gifts,’” saidTami Bebber, mother of twin girls.“We take care of that — it’s so mucheasier on everyone.”

Kimberly Sweetland, mother of

twin girls, said she requests one giftfor her daughters.

“That way the guests don’t feeloverwhelmed, and the girls don’t getso many presents,” Sweetland said.“The girls need to learn to share any-

way, and getting two of the same thingis good initially, but they can do withonly one in the end. A gift they canshare is always nice [like a board gamethey can play together].”

Gifts given by multiples to asingle birthday child

“We typically take one gift butspend a little more because it is fromboth kids,” Rudisill said.

Frue agreed. “When both childrenare invited to a party, I usually buyone gift. We just spend a little morethan we would if one child was in-vited.”

“I always try to think of [the twins]as individuals,” Clements said. “If theywere separate ages they would eachtake a gift to a birthday party.”

“If we find something they bothreally like and it is a little more expen-sive, we take one larger gift,” Willeysaid. “If they cannot find somethingthey can both agree on, we take twoindividual gifts.”

“We take either three small gifts orone big gift,” Carver said.

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENTTriplets Mason, Cooper and Henry Carver enjoy their cake at their 1st birthday party lastyear. They are the sons of Lisa and Peter Carver.

Continues on Page 15

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The bakeries of Western NorthCarolina offer myriad alternatives tothe traditional birthday cake. Fromcupcakes and cookie platters to vegan,gluten-free and other special dietarypreferences, there are many mouth-watering options.

Cupcakes“There is something about having a

cupcake with a half-cake to half-icingratio, all to yourself, to bring out yourpossessive side,” said Heather McMul-len, co-owner of The Sisters McMul-len. Cupcakes stir up fond memories

from childhood. “It is cake that doesnot need a plate or a fork. What couldbe better? We also offer a smallercupcake perfect for the youngercrowd.”

The Sisters McMullen, 55 Weaver-ville Highway #9, Asheville, 252-9330; 1N. Pack Square, Asheville, 252-9454.

Ice cream cakeIn addition to scoops in many

flavors, The Hop dishes up ice creamcakes. The Hop, has been around for30 years. Owners Greg and AshleyGarrison are both UNC Ashevillealumni. “The Hop makes homemadeice cream cakes with any flavors of icecream and a cookie or cake crust,”

Beyond the typical cakeMove over yellow cake with buttercream

— there are other birthday options

PHOTOS SPECIAL TO WNC PARENTIf there are dietary concerns, try a gluten-free birthday cake from World’s Best Carrot Cake.

By Lockie HunterWNC Parent contributor


Ashley Garrison says. “All cakes are custom decora-ted, too.” The Hop also hosts free special events.

The Hop, 640 Merrimon Ave., Suite 103, Ashe-ville, 254-2224.

Cater to your special dietary needsCrème Patisserie and Confectionery makes spe-

cial cakes that include low fat, sugar free, vegan andgluten-free options. At 640 Merrimon Ave, suite 201,Asheville, 350-9839.

Carrot cakeAvi Sommerville, co-owner and founder of

World’s Best Carrot Cake, says, “We are famous forseveral varieties of carrot cake that help meet die-tary preferences: 100 percent organic; gluten-freetraditional or chocolate carrot cake; vegan carrotcake; and by special order, gluten-free/lactose-freecarrot cakes.”

World’s Best Carrot Cake, 175 Weaverville High-way, Suite V., Asheville, 658-2738, worldsbestcarrotcake.com

Cookie traysA birthday party with a seasonal theme could

include gingerbread cookies shaped into turkeys,scarecrows or other fun designs for any season.

The Bake Shoppe, 146 Weaverville Highway,Asheville, 645-2038.

Mini treats

“Trays of mini desserts are perfect for a party,”says Sarah Resnick, pastry chef at City Bakery. “Weoffer mini cheesecakes, mini éclairs, mini fruit tarts,mini cream puffs, as well as truffles. This optionallows you to have several desserts, instead of justone cake, so everyone is sure to find somethingthey love. It’s easy finger food, no need for slicingand serving.”

City Bakery, 60 Biltmore Ave., 252-4426; and 88Charlotte St., 254-4289, both Asheville.

Moon pieOwner Bridgette Cannon describes the moon pie

as “a dessert that starts with a Sugar Momma’s coo-kie base, then alternates up with our famous icingwith our signature vanilla bean cake. Once you’vegot it stacked where you want it, we then pour achocolate ganache over it — white, milk, or darkchocolate.”

Asheville Cake Co., 348-0720, ashevillecakecom-pany.com. Call for an appointment.

Custom chocolate sculptureLet the folks at Chocolate Gems create one-of-a-

kind chocolate sculptures for the birthday boy orgirl. Or indulge each guest with their own chocolatebox decorated with sugar flowers and leaves. At 106W. State St., Black Mountain, 669-9105.

Cupcakes, like these from The Sisters McMullen, can makea great alternative to the typical birthday cake.

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Does the idea of throwing a birthdayparty for a bunch of rowdy boys make youbreak out in a cold sweat? Take a deepbreath and relax. Here are some ideas to getthe guys out of the house and into someserious birthday fun without breaking thebank.

ClimbMax Climbing CenterIf the boys have you climbing the wall,

return the favor at ClimbMax ClimbingCenter.

“Climbing is a great way for a group ofboys to work off some energy,” said JennyWallace of Asheville, who has had parties at

ClimbMax for her son. The store offers party packages with a

party room, equipment rental and pizza froma local pizza parlor. Call 252-9996 or visitclimbmaxnc.com for more details.

Check out a cool pool“One of our favorite boy parties is to rent

out the pool,” said Cathy West, of Barnards-ville. “Just bring a cake, and you’ve got aninstant party.”

The YWCA on South French Broad Ave-nue is a favorite for pool parties, offeringtwo-hour packages that include an hour inthe pool for up to 30 children and an hour inthe party room. Tables and chairs are provid-ed. Cost is $105 for YWCA members and $120for nonmembers. Times available for parties

WNC PARENT PHOTOSince boys love to dig in the dirt, a gem mining birthday party could be a per-fect choice.

Action-packedparties for boys

Keep your birthday boy and his pals entertainedBy Rick McDanielWNC Parent contributor

W N C P A R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L A C E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T 1 1

are 7-9 p.m. Fridays; 2-4 p.m. and 3-5p.m. Saturdays; and 1-3 p.m. and 3-5p.m. Sundays. For more information,call 254-7206, ext. 209, or visit ywcao-fasheville.org.

Parties at the YMCA in downtownAsheville are offered from 1-3:30 and4-6:30 p.m. Saturdays. Parties includean hour of pool time, followed by anhour of time in the party room.

Cost is $80 for members ($100 non-members) for up to 10 people, and $140for members ($160 nonmembers) for10-20 people. Call 210-9622.

Fun DepotFor the ultimate in boy fun, it’s hard

to beat Fun Depot in South Asheville.With everything from batting cages togo karts to laser tag, they have every-thing you’ll need to keep a herd ofboys entertained for a few hours.

Fun Depot offers three party pack-ages for different age groups that in-clude pizza, birthday cake, soft drinks,paper products, Boxcar Bucks, a per-sonal party host or hostess, a T-shirtfor the birthday child and other treats.Prices range from $99.99 for 10 chil-dren younger than 5 to $149.99 and$219.99 for 10 older children.

Party times are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mon-day-Friday and 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Satur-days. Call 277-2FUN, ext. 104, or visitashevillesfundepot.com.

Play ball!Asheville Tourists offer baseball

birthday parties with reduced-priceadmission at all home games.

Parties feature food and a chancefor the birthday boy to visit the dug-out before the game for autographs.The team will even announce thebirthday boy’s name over the publicaddress system. Prices start at $13 perperson and require a minimum of 10people.

Tarwheels SkatewayFor a fast-paced and fun boy party,

head out to Swannanoa to TarwheelsSkateway. It offers birthday parties for$10 per person during the week and $12per person Friday and Saturdaynights. Parties include invitations,admission and skates, tables set withspoons, plates and napkins, balloons,drinks and ice cream, and a free passfor the birthday child.

Call 298-6606 or visit tarwheelsskateway.com.

Strike it richHead for the hills for a little gem

mining. Asheville Outdoor Center onAmboy Road offers birthday partiesfeaturing gem mining along the banksof the French Broad River.

Pricing depends on group size; formore information, call 232-1970.

Rick McDaniel is a freelance writer.E-mail him at [email protected].

PHOTO BY KATE HARRISONPools are a great place to let boys expend some energy at a birthday party.

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Kids love a birthday party, whetherit’s an old-fashioned affair with pinthe tail on the donkey and a home-baked cake or an extravagant affairwith clowns, balloon artists andbounce houses.

Party venues like The Health Ad-venture, WNC Nature Center, FunDepot and Chuck E. Cheese’s are al-ways popular destinations, but with alittle creative thinking you can findalternatives to the traditional partyevent.

Here are five ideas to consider.

A magical tea partyAn enchanting destination for little

girls is Anna’s Playhouse in Mills Riv-er, a restored, child-size house origi-nally build in the 1920s that offers an

unforgettable experience for up to sixgirls and two adults.

Party packages include access to a

closet filled with dress-up clothes,hats, shoes and accessories; gamesand a craft; a lesson in tea-party man-ners; playtime with girls’ favoritedolls; a framed photo of the event; andthe tea party itself, which includes teaor drink of choice, finger sandwiches,scones with mock Devonshire creamand raspberry preserves, cookies andcupcakes prepared by the SouthsideCafé.

Contact: 674-6653, or annasplayhouse.biz.

Another venue for tea parties isChelsea’s Tea Room at 6 Boston Wayin Biltmore Village. Chelsea’s offerstea trays with either cheese or withfinger sandwiches, scones, cookiesand other goodies, and girls are in-vited to dress up and bring dolls orteddy bears to help them celebrate thebirthday child.

Contact: 274-4400, or chelseastea.com.

More creative celebrations

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENTAnna’s Playhouse in Mills River is a great alternative to a typical birthday party.

Alternatives to thetraditional party

By Barbara BlakeWNC Parent writer

A one-stop option is AshevillePizza and Brewing Co. at 675 Merri-mon Ave. Parties can be held in thegame room in what was once the sec-ond of two theatres at the complex,with space set aside for birthday cake,ice cream and gift opening. The res-taurant offers a number of menu op-tions, including pizza, sandwiches andsalads.

Before or after the party itself,children can walk to the adjoiningtheater and catch whatever kid-friend-ly flick is playing that day. The restau-rant’s party coordinator can helpmake the arrangements.

Contact: 254-1281, ext. 59, or ashe-villepizza.com.

A day at the spaSeveral spas in the area

offer facials or manicure/pedicure parties for girls,as long as they signwaivers (for young-er than 18) andare accompa-nied by anadult. Here’sa sampling.

◆ Sensi-

A fun and educational party —with no goodie bags

Jill Clark, mother of 6-year-oldtwins Celia and Sean, offered this ideafor a no-hassle party that also sparedthe parents of party guests from com-ing up with gift ideas.

“For their birthday, we requestedno gifts. Instead, we asked everyone tobring one book, either new or gentlyused, and then held a book exchangeso that each child went home with a‘new’ book,” Clark said.

“The kids already get so much fortheir birthday from [Clark and herhusband, Keith], the grandparents,etc., and we didn’t think they neededany more stuff,” she said. “The ideaworked really well, and it also solvedthe need for having any goodie bags.”

Dinner — or lunch — and a movieAny number of kid-friendly restau-

rants in town can make space for agroup of children to have a meal fol-lowed by cake and gift-opening.

Ideally, the restaurant would benear a movie theater, where the kidscan be ferried before or after lunch ordinner.

bilities Day Spa at 59 Haywood St. andin Biltmore Park offers manicure/pedicure parties, with space for cakeand gifts. Call 253-3222 in Asheville,687-8760 in Biltmore Park, or visitsensibilities-spa.com.

◆ The Spa at Biltmore Village at 18Brook St., suite 104, offers manicuresand pedicures for up to 12 girls, withroom for cake and gifts. Call 277-2649or visit spaatbiltmorevillage.com.

◆ Privai Academy at 6 RobertsRoad near Biltmore Village offersfacials, along with lessons in skin careand cleaning. There’s also space for aparty with cake and gifts. Call 277-3883, or visit privai.com.

A photo scavenger huntThis creative party activity

suited for older children willtake some time to plan, but it’sguaranteed to make a lastingmemory for all involved.

Pick an area, like down-town Asheville, and compile alist of items or places the kidshave to find. For example, apair of chopsticks at an Asianrestaurant, a certain plaquealong the Urban Trail, the

American flag hanging in front of oneof the government buildings, and awater fountain in a specific park orgreen space.

Send the party guests out in smallgroups to search for the items on thelist, armed with digital cameras todocument each find. The first groupback with pictures of each item on thelist wins the grand prize. Adding tothe fun of this idea is that there will bemany photos of the party to share.

WNC PARENT PHOTO Marble tiles mark spots on the Urban Trail,ideal for a downtown scavenger hunt.


14 W N C P A R E N T | J U L Y 2 0 0 9

When, and how long?

Although it is special to have theparty on the child’s birthday, Owensaid that having the party on a Sat-urday is easier for everybody in-volved. “That way you’ve got thewhole day to get ready, and you have awhole day after that to rest.” Weekendparties also work better for otheradults or out-of-town guests.

The party should be short. One totwo hours of hubbub is about the mosta 1-year-old can handle before becom-ing overwhelmed and cranky.

It is also a must to schedule theparty around naptimes. Holding theparty in the late morning allows for amorning nap, and having it in the lateafternoon gives time for an afternoonnap. A well-rested child is better ableto cope with all the attention.

What to do?Mainly, Owen said, the 1-year-old

birthday party is simply about beingtogether and enjoying the day. But shedoes have some suggestions for things

to do at the party.Though 1-year-olds are too little to

participate in many activities, there

are a few good things to keep themoccupied. For one of Lydia’s birthdays,Owen filled a kiddie pool with plasticballs from Wal-Mart, making a miniball pit for the children to play in.

Another thing she suggests is bub-bles.

“Really for a 1-year-old all you needare bubbles and balloons and they areloving it,” said Ruland.

Cake & foodAlthough the baby is the center of

the party, Owen says the cake comesin second.

“It’s sort of a centerpiece that willshow up in all the pictures,” she said.

If the party has a theme, it can beshown in the cake. Owen made a prin-cess castle cake for Lydia’s 1st birthdayto go along with a princess theme.

But parents agree that at the end ofthe day, the cake is mainly all aboutthe icing. Owen even made a separatesmall cake for Lydia to dig into.

Some parents do not want to feedtheir children cake for health reasons.

Tips for throwing a great — and manageable — 1st birthday partyContinued from Page 3

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENTOlivia Adams celebrates her 1st birthday. Her parents, Ken and Nicole, planned an elaboratecelebration that they eneded up having little time to enjoy.


magazines and CDs that are popularat the time; family heirlooms; orthings you think they will enjoy at theage they’ll open the capsule (for ex-ample, if they are going to be 10 whenthey open it, put in a book or gamethat a 10-year-old might enjoy)

Although it is good to save memo-ries for later, it is crucial to relish theday itself. One thing parents recom-mend is to carve out some time at theend of the day for just mom, dad, andbaby to be together and reflect.

“You just want to spend time withyour child, at the end of it all,” saidOwen. “You want to keep remindingthem how special they are. You maynot have pictures of that moment, butyou have that in your heart.”

A few fun alternatives are Jell-O, pud-ding, muffins or sugar-free cupcakes.

You do not need to provide a mealat the party, but if you do decide tooffer refreshments to the adults, servesomething low maintenance. As al-ways, check if any of the children haveallergies before giving them food.

Save (but also savor) the moment

Be sure to capture the day withsome good pictures and video footage.Although your child will not remem-ber this day, it will be a special eventhe or she will enjoy seeing picturesand video of later.

Enlist a trusted volunteer to be thedesignated picture or video taker —you are already doing too many thingsto be running around trying to get theperfect shot.

Another unusual way to treasurethe birthday is to make a time capsulethat the child can open when he isolder. Instead of asking for gifts, askguests to bring something to put inthe capsule.

You can include mementos fromthe baby’s first year; newspapers,

GIFT IDEAS FOR 1-YEAR-OLDS◆ Toys that make noise and light up◆ Textured or board books with colorfulpictures◆ Push-along baby walkers◆ New bath toys◆ Clothes◆ A big, lasting present like a swing,playhouse or a rocking horse

“A present from each child is whatwe do,” Case said. “They don’t have tobe expensive — we limit gifts to $10 orless.”

Only 1 multiple is invited to afriend’s party

“On some occasions only one wasinvited, which did upset the other alittle,” Frue said. “So we usually plansome special activity for the uninvitedtwin to do for that day.”

“I have told parents they don’t haveto invite both children, just the onetheir child is friends with,” Case said.“We can do something together whilethe other is away at the party. I think itis a good lesson to learn at an earlyage that life is not fair, and we aredifferent and special in our own way.”

“A challenge for [parents of singlechildren] is whether to feel obligatedto invite both [or all] multiples even ifthe birthday child is only friends withone,” Sweetland said. “I haven’t gottento this stage yet, but I don’t think it’snecessary to always include all the

multiples.”Andrew said that because her 7-

year-old girls are in separate classes inschool they have gotten invitationsaddressed to only one or the other.

“That’s dicey — birthday partiesare big fun for these two, and the onewho isn’t invited would be prettyupset,” she said. “So far, I’ve been ableto communicate with the other parent,who always says, ‘Oh, I didn’t know,please bring her twin sister,’ but itcan’t be this way forever. I don’t see agood way to handle this, short of tak-ing the uninvited one out for someother desired treat or outing.”

Parties for multiples are challengingContinued from Page 7

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENTSusan Andrew made these two cakes for herdaughters, Isabel and Olivia, when theyturned 3.

Some of a child’s best memories come from birthday parties — especially their own. We asked an assortment ofkids in Asheville to tell us about the party that’s been most memorable to them so far. Here’s what they told staffwriter Barbara Blake.

“I had so muchfun at one partywhen my friendscame and got methis cool book withpicture thatchanged. We playedin the sandbox andhad so much fun.We had heart-

shaped plates with princesses onthem. I love princesses. And all themoms had fun too, just talking to eachother.”

Jemiah Williams, age 6

“My best partywas a surpriseparty, and I got askateboard withpatches. I had aSpider-man cake,and we played alldifferent games,and I got gifts fromall my friends. Myfavorite gift was my

skateboard patches.”Jonathan Weston Franklin, age 5

“My mom’sfriend came overand we made tie-dyed stuff. Thecake was tie-dyed,with lollipops on it,and everything elsewas tie-dyed. Mywhole class came.We said to bring

white clothes, and everybody tie-dyedsomething different. And then theytook their tie-dyed stuff home.”

Rylee Somervill, age 8

“My best partywas at Chuck E.Cheese’s. We got toride in cars thatwent up and down.I had a lot offriends there. Andwe had chocolatecake, my favorite.Chocolate cakes are

yummy. And it had a princess on it.”Jasmine Brown, age 6

“My best birth-day was a flight-themed one, withairplanes. We had acake with a runwaydown the middle,and a plane crashedinto the side of it.We made the hall-way into a runwayand someone stood

in the middle with flashlights andwould direct us [the planes] in circlesaround the house. And we had anairplane poster that a real pilot hadgiven me.”

Thomson Meeks, age 9

“My favoriteparty was when Iturned 5. My Nanagot me a big Trans-former, and myparty was at FunDepot. The mostfun thing at FunDepot was playingall the games. I still

have the Transformer toy that was onmy cake.”

Collin Shepard, age 5

“When I turned 5I had a Dora [theExplorer] cake, anda Dora train, andDora plates andstuff. At my cous-in’s party when heturned 1 year old,we went to ChuckE. Cheese’s, and we

got to play lots of things. He had atrain on his cake.”

Hailey Ellis, age 5

“My favorite wasa detective party.We had to solve amystery to find thebirthday presents.We had to findfingerprints andfollow clues, like acar key, whichwould lead us to

the car where all the presents werehidden in the trunk. For favors, eachguest got a little note pad, a golf penciland a magnifying glass, and theirnames were put on detective badges,in code. It was the most elaborateparty I’ve ever had.”

Kate Lindrum, age 10

kids voices

My best birthday party

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Acceleration Sports Institute, 14Legend Drive, Arden, 687-7999, accel-erationsport.com. Party where the pros train.ASI offers birthday parties with basketballcourt, dodge ball, batting cages, inflatablecastle jumper, inflatable sports jumper orinflatable obstacle course.

AMF Star Lanes Bowling, 491 Kenil-worth Road, Asheville, 254-6161,amf.com. A two-hour bowling party,offered on weekends, includes onehour of bowling, rental shoes for each

guest, invitations and thank you cards, paperproducts and unfilled goody bags. Eachguest receives drink and pizza or kids meal.Parents can bring a birthday cake. The birth-day child receives an AMF Birthday BowlingPin that can be autographed by the guests.

Anna’s Playhouse, Mills River. Host a partyat a playhouse with running water, electricityhardwood floors, sun porch and more. Con-tact Lizbeth Hartzog at 674-6653 or visitannasplayhouse.biz.

Asheville Arts Center, 308 Merrimon Ave.,Asheville, 253-4000, ashevilleartscenter-.com. The arts center has a variety of optionsfor birthday parties, with character partiesfrom princesses to pirates to themed parties

such as “From Wizard to Wicked” wherechildren can act, sing and dance down theyellow brick road while learning their favoritescenes from the “Wizard of Oz” and“Wicked.” Parties can be all-inclusive, afford-able to opulent, with visits from your favoriteprincess or character, party favors, mailedinvitations and a birthday cake.

The B rthday GuideWhere to party, what to eat, how to entertain the kids and more

PHOTO BY ERIN BRETHAUERAva Pulliam, 3, Charlie Purcell, 4, and Parker Pulliam, 4, play around on the bars at The Little Gym during a birthday party for their friend Chip Hoornstra.

Party places

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Asheville Tourists, McCormick Field, 258-0428, theashevilletourists.com. Celebrateyour child’s birthday with Ted E. Tourist. Twoparty packages available, with a 10-personminimum. Packages include hot dog or pizza(varies by package), soft drinks and cake;one reserved box seat to the game; publicaddress and scoreboard recognition duringthe game; a visit from Ted E. Tourist; and amarker and baseball for autographs in thedugout before the game. Parties begin onehour before a game.

Asheville West KOA campground, 309Wiggins Road, Candler, 665-7015. Newpavilion and pool rented out for parties.Cake and food available for additional cost.

Asheville YMCA, 30 Woodfin St., Asheville.Contact Rachel Kaminer at 210-9622, ext.265, ymcawnc.org. The Y offers two types ofparties. Pool parties are available 1-3:30p.m. and 4-6:30 p.m. Saturdays and includean hour of pool time followed by 90 minutes

in the party room for up to 20children (more children for addi-tional cost). Also available are WiiFitness and Dance Dance Revolu-

tion parties after 2:30 p.m. Sat-urdays. That includes an hour of gaming timeand use of the youth room for 90 minutes forup to 12 participants. Recommended foraround age 6 or older.

Bounceville USA, 614 Market St., Hen-dersonville, 696-4949, bouncevilleusa.com,[email protected]. Bounceville offersthree party packages, from an open playparty to private parties. Private party packag-es include an hour in the party room, anhour of bounce time, a free jump pass forthe birthday child and access to a partycoordinator to help with set up,cleanup and party tasks, in-vitations and paper goods. Openplay parties offer an hour in theparty room and cleanup. Pizza,drinks, personalized treats, andoutside entertainment availablefor additional cost.

Build-A-Bear Workshop, Ashe-ville Mall, 298-1852, builda-bear.com. A party leader guides

guests through choosing and stuffing a newfriend. Printable invitations and thank-youcards are provided online. Gifts for the birth-day child and goody bags for the guests areincluded. Food and drinks are not allowed inthe workshop. Parties are scheduled forgroups of six or more. Parents can set theprice beginning at $10 per guest.

Cheshire Fitness and Racquet Club, 25Jane Jacobs Road, Black Mountain, 664-0400, villageofcheshire.com. Host a poolparty at Cheshire Fitness Club. Guests willhave access to the indoor, heated pool, foodservice area, and locker room, as well asstaff facility supervision. Parties available toboth members and nonmembers, and afternormal hours of operation for additional

cost.

Chick-fil-A, 1832 HendersonvilleRoad, Asheville, 277-9913. Eatand enjoy time in the play area.Bring in your own cake but noice cream or other foods.

Chimney Rock Park, U.S.64/74A, Chimney Rock, 625-9611, chimneyrockpark.com,education@chimneyrock-

park.com. Birthday parties are available forall ages. Options include scavenger hunts,reptile demonstrations and a 32-foot climb-ing tower. Parties include admission for up to12 guests and two adults (additional guestsextra), cupcakes and drinks, paper goods,and free passes.

Chuck E. Cheese’s, 104 River Hills Road,Asheville, 2967330 299-3750, chuckechee-se.com. Birthday party package includes twoslices of single-topping pizza, a soft drinkwith free refills and 20 tokens for eachguest. The birthday cake and a visit fromChuck E. Cheese are provided. A decoratedtable is reserved 90 minutes. The birthdaychild receives a crown, cup and cottoncandy. Free invitations are also available toprint online. Online bookings are available.

Claying Around, 1378 Hendersonville Road,Suite D, Asheville, 277-0042, clayingaround-.com. Four party packages available, startingwith the basic 90-minute party for 10 ormore painters with cost per child plus cost ofpottery. At a silver clay party for children 10and older, guests make a silver charm that istaken home the same day. “Fancy Nancy”parties also available. Parties include aspecial plate for all guests to sign.

Party placesContinued from Page 17


ClimbMax, 43 Wall St., Asheville, 252-9996, climbmaxnc.com. ClimbMax offersclimbing parties for groups of six or more.Party room is available, and pizza is availablefrom a local pizza company at a discount.

East Asheville Recreation Center, 906Tunnel Road, 251-4041, [email protected]. Let Asheville Parks & Recre-ation host a two-hour birthday party with avariety of packages available. Venue andcleanup provided for Saturday parties at 10a.m. or 1 or 4 p.m. Must be booked twoweeks in advance.

Fired Up! Creative Lounge, 26 Wall St.,Asheville, 253-8181, fireduplounge.com.Two-hour reserved parties are available forgroups of six or more. Per person fee plusthe cost of pottery each guest chooses topaint. Guests are welcome to bring food,drinks, balloons, presents, etc.

Fun Depot, 7 Roberts Road, Asheville, 277-2386, ext. 104, ashevillesfundepot.com,[email protected]. Birthdayparties in a private party room with a partyhost or hostess to accommodate your everyneed. Fun Depot offers four package options,all of which include pizza, soft drinks andpaper products (ice cream cups and partyplatters with chicken fingers, hot wings,finger sandwiches and vegetable or fruit for

an additional fee). Each package includes aBoxcar Bucks card for the children to partici-pate in the activities at our facility. Partiescan be booked in a real caboose for anadditional charge.

Fun Factory in the Smokies, 1024 GeorgiaRoad, Franklin, 349-8888, thefactory.bz.Birthday fun includes mini golf, go-karts,arcade games, bowling and more. Packagesstart at eight guests. Parties are 90 minutesand include cake and drinks, paper goods,return coupons for guests, set up, a T-shirtfor the birthday child, bonus cash for guests.

Fun Things Etc., 196 N. Main St., Waynes-ville. 456-7672, funthingsetc.net, [email protected]. Party package includesuse of party room for up to two hours for asmany as eight children, set up, decorations,balloons, banner, food, drinks and cake.Invite more guests, have craft time, gametime and have a staff member oversee theparty for additional cost.

Ghost Town in the Sky, Maggie Valley, 926-1140, ext. 336, ghosttowninthesky.com. Thetheme park offers two party packages: theBuckaroo Birthday and Wild West Birthday.Both parties include admission, free parking,

PHOTO BY ERIN BRETHAUERJamie Bingham jumpsdown a bouncy slideduring his 7th birthdayparty at Bouncville USAin Hendersonville.

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cake and drinks, paper products, privateparty room and cowboy/cowgirl hat for thebirthday child. The Wild West party includespizza, party favors, 30 additional party roomminutes and exclusive view of the gunfight.

Growing Young Café, 611 Tunnel Road,299-4420, growingyoungcafe.com. Birthdayparty packages are scheduled on Saturdaymornings or Sunday afternoons. The cafécan do it all or just rent the playroom. Partythemes include mad scientists, fairies or artadventure. Parties can also be customized tofit your child’s interests.

Hahn’s Gymnastics, 18 Legend Drive, Arden,684-8832, hahnsgymnastics.com. Childrenhave fun while they play games, use theparachute, run the obstacle course andreceive gymnastics instruction. Each party isplanned according to participants’ ages andspecial requests. Staff to participant ratio isone instructor to every 10 children. Partiesinclude one hour of gymnastics instructionand a half-hour in the party room.

Hands On! A Child’s Gallery, 318 N.Main St., Hendersonville, 697-8333,handsonwnc.org. Parties for up to 12children (additional cost for up to 15guests total) include party room for

two hours, set up, invitations and a T-shirt forbirthday child. Bring your own food, papergoods and provide one adult for every fivechildren.

High Flight Gym, 50 Coxe Ave., Asheville,252-8746, highflightgym.com. Instructorslead guests through games, activities, con-tests and free time throughout the gym,including trampolines, foam pit and theparachute. Party room provided for servingrefreshments. Parties are 90 minutes andare available at noon, 2:30 and 5 p.m.Saturdays, and 1 and 3:30 p.m. Sundays (noSundays in June-August), or have a fun nightparty, with three hours of gym time startingat 7 p.m. Fridays or Saturdays (no Saturdaysin June-August). Appropriate for all ages.Maximum of 25 children. Decorations andrefreshments not provided.

Holiday Inn Airport, 550 Airport Road,Fletcher, 684-1213. Offers pool parties forup to 15 children at indoor or outdoor pool,weather permitting. Parties available on

Friday nights, Saturdays and Sundays.Guests must bring their own towels. Foodand beverages may be brought in.

Hollywild Animal Park, 2325 HamptonRoad, Welford, S.C., 864-472-2038, holly-wild.com. Cool Cat party in the outdoorscreened pavilion includes cake and icecream, paper products, drinks, popcorn,bags of animal food for guests, free pass toreturn to the zoo and one hour in the partyroom. A host will serve the party. The birth-day child receives a bottle to feed a babyanimal, a safari hat and T-shirt. Pony ridesadditional. All guests have full-day access tothe park.

KidSenses, 172 N. Main St., Rutherfordton,286-2120, [email protected]. Packageincludes party room for one hour, unlimitedplay time in museum for 20 child guests andtheir parents, invitations, balloon bouquet,T-shirt for the birthday child. Please scheduleat least three weeks in advance.

Kilwin’s Chocolates, Fudge and Ice Cream,26 Battery Park Ave., Asheville, 252-2639;116 W. State St., Black Mountain, 669-6119.Up to 10 children can celebrate a birthday bycreating a chocolaty treat. Kids pick two

WNC PARENT PHOTO Hands On! A Child’s Gallery is a children’smuseum on Main Street in Hendersonvillethat offers birthday parties. Here, ColtonBrowder plays outside the museum’s cos-tume theater.



snacks among Oreos, marshmallow puffsand Rice Krispie treats, dip them in choco-late and decorate. Ice cream also available.Balloons provided.

Marble Slab Creamery, 14 Biltmore Ave.,Asheville, 225-5579, marbleslab.com. Partyroom for rent. Ice cream and cakes available.

Marble Slab Creamery, 1840 HendersonvilleRoad, #103, Asheville, 277-0575, marbles-lab.com. Space available for parties on patioor small gatherings inside.

McDonald’s, 850 Brevard Road, Asheville,665-4860. McDonald’s near BiltmoreSquare Mall offers two party options. A partyfor up to 10 children includes cake and icecream and set up (meals are separate).

Michaels, 111-A River Hills Road, Asheville,299-0183; 5 McKenna Road, Arden, 684-1961; Michaels.com. Have a crafty birthdayparty. Packages include invitations, projectideas, apron for birthday child, craftingassistance for each guest, set up and clean-up. Bring your own food, decorations andparty goods. Minimum of five children, maxi-mum of 10.

Moe’s Southwest Grill, 1 HendersonvilleRoad, 225-6637, moes.com. Set up a partyinside or out on the patio.

Montford Recreation Center, Kim Kennedy,34 Pearson Drive, Asheville, 253-3714,[email protected]. Host a climbingadventure on the indoor climbing wall for

your next party. Rental includes use of thewall, climbing equipment and an extra roomfor cake and presents.

Mountain Brew Café, 3480 Sweeten CreekRoad, Arden, 687-9009. Have your nextbirthday in the upstairs dinning room orcatered anywhere from picnics to seatedmeals. No event too small or large.

Odyssey Center for Ceramic Arts, 238Clingman Ave., Asheville, 285-0210, highwaterclays.com. Guests get two balls ofclay to create a piece of pottery; pieces arefired after event. Parties for up to 10 people(additional guests extra) include an hour ofexclusive use of the studio for clay time andan hour for celebrating. For all ages. Bringyour own refreshments. Parties offered 1:30-3:30 p.m. Saturday and Sundays.

Outdoor Family Fun Center, 485 BrooksideCamp Road, Hendersonville, 698-1234,[email protected], outdoorfa-milyfuncenter.com. Birthday party packagesfor all ages with miniature golf, batting cag-es, driving range and more.

Ramada Biltmore West, 275 Smoky ParkHighway, 667-4501, ramada.com. Ramada

offers two-hour pool parties year round,which includes an area set aside for theparty adjacent to the indoor-outdoor pool.

Reuter Family YMCA, 3 Town Square Blvd.,Asheville, 651-9622, ymcawnc.org. The Y inBiltmore Park offers parties using the pool,the gym, the climbing wall or an inflatableobstacle course. Each rental also includesan hour in the party area.

Southeastern Fitness and Rehabilitation,23 Turtle Creek Drive, Asheville, 274-2188,[email protected], south-easternfitness.com. Parties include exclusiveuse of the 88-degree indoor pool.

Smoky Mountain Dance Center, 1082 N.Main St., Waynesville, 400-8504, smok-ymountaindance.org. Invite your friends andfamily for fun, music and laughter. The dancecenter provides costumes and a dance classof your choice.

Southside Arts Studio, 2398 HendersonvilleRoad, Arden, 684-1611. Make your ownpottery using hand-building techniques.

PHOTO BY STEPHEN MILLER Kamron Taylor had a party for his 9th birth-day at Fun Depot.

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STJ’s Inflatables, 710 Tracy Grove Road, FlatRock, 696-0674, [email protected], stjspartie-sandevents.com. STJ’s Inflation Station offersparty room for private or semi-private parties.Indoor play area includes slide, obstaclecourse, bounce house and more.

Tarheel Lanes, 3275 Asheville Highway,Hendersonville, 692-5039 or 253-2695,tarheellanes.com, [email protected] parties for 10 or more people. Bringyour own cake and ice cream.

Tarwheels Skateway, 2134 U.S. 70, Swan-nanoa, 298-6606, tarwheelsskateway.com.Roller-skating rink offers birthday partiesduring any regular session and private par-ties when the rink is closed. Price includesinvitations, admission and skates, papergoods, balloons, drink and ice cream forguests, free pass for birthday child.

Tender Mercy Retreat, 383 Heath RetreatRoad, Waynesville, 648-3524, tendermercy-retreat.com. A seven-acre farm with a one-acre pond offers a setting for parties. Fish,tour the barn or hen house, learn aboutllamas, donkeys and horses, or walk on trailsover 30 acres. Use a fire pit for a bonfire.Bring your own tables or use the one on site.Ample parking and use of restrooms.

The Health Adventure, Pack Place, 2 S.Pack Square, 254-6373, ext. 316, the-healthadventure.org. Offers age-appropriateprograms. For ages 2-5, use the CreativePlaySpace for 45 minutes, with 45 minutesin the party room. For ages 6-10, choosefrom four party options. All birthday partiesinclude admission for up to 20 children, adecorated party room and a gift bag for thebirthday child. Minimum of one adult forevery three children required.

The Hop, 640 Merrimon Ave., Asheville,254-2224, thehopicecreamcafe.com. Shopfeaturing all-natural, homemade ice creamsoffers sundae bar, face painting and a bal-loon artist.

The Little Gym, 1000 Brevard Road, Suite168, Asheville, 667-9588, tlgashevillenc.com. [email protected]. Twoqualified instructors lead 90-minute partiesthat include gymnastics, music, games andmore. Parties include invitations, set up andcleanup, all paper goods, drinks, balloons

and a T-shirt for the birthday child.For up to 21 children.

360 Party Bus, 236-2841,360partybus.com. Host a party on

wheels and take birthday guests to a favoritefun spot. Bus includes TVs, DVD player,satellite radio, party lights. For up to 20people.

Tropical Gardens Mini Golf, 956 PattonAve., Asheville, 252-2207. Party packageincludes an hour in a decorated gazebo, softdrink, snow cone and future free pass foreach child, one round of 18 holes of minigolf and paper goods.

Young Chefs Academy, 336 RockwoodRoad, 651-2433, [email protected], youngchefsacademy.com. Twoparty packages offered where kids learn tocook and make their own food. Parties are90 minutes long and include personalizedinvitations, food, drinks, balloons, papergoods, paper chef hats, and a T-shirt andapron for the birthday child. Several foodthemes available.

Waggers Dog Depot, 1020 Merrimon Ave.,No. 102, Asheville, 271-4741, waggersdog-depot.com. Throw a birthday party for yourdog. This boutique has grooming, self-servewash, photography and a treat bakery.

Waynesville Recreation Center, VanceStreet, 456-2030, townofwaynesville.org.The rec center offers traditional two-hourpool parties or an overnight “lock-in” poolpackage for larger groups.

WNC Nature Center, 75 Gashes CreekRoad, Asheville, 298-5600, ext. 305,wildwnc.org. Parties offered in the newlyredecorated birthday room on Saturdays andSundays (10 a.m.-noon or 2-4 p.m.)throughout the year. Included are 25 guestpasses to the Nature Center for that day only,a free small gift for the birthday child, use ofthe birthday room and kitchen facilities,along with a private bathroom.

Yoga for Kids, Kathleen Eskew, 277-6819.Theme birthday parties for girls and boysages 4 through teens. Have fun, learn andfeel great through music, dance, storytelling,creative arts and earth care. Certified teach-er for Yogakids International.

YWCA of Asheville, 185 S. French BroadAve., 254-7206, ext. 209, ywcaofasheville-.org. The YWCA offers two-hour packagesthat include an hour in the pool and an hourin the party room.



Asheville Cake Co., 348-0720,ashevillecakecompany.com. Offersdozens of flavors for custom cakes or cup-cakes, including several family recipes.Vegan options available.

The Bake Shoppe, 146B Weaverville High-way, Asheville, 645-2038, bakeshoppeashe-ville.com. Offers a large selection of custombirthday cakes.

Bi-Lo, 801 Fairview Road, Asheville, 299-1400; 205 N.C. 9, Black Mountain, 669-2306; 511 Smoky Park Highway, Candler,670-1961; bi-lo.com. Personalized birthdaycakes in a variety of themes or cupcakes,cookies and other treats are made to order.

Blue Ridge Bakery, 400 S. Broad St., Brev-ard, 883-8444. Children’s cakes are thebakery’s specialty. They are made with realbutter, organic vanilla and fresh, local eggs.Everything is made from scratch.

Cakes by Jane, 9 Old Burnsville Hill Road,Suite 4, Asheville, 285-9292, cakesbyjane-.com. Southern cream cheese pound cakes

in a variety of flavors.

Calico Corner Gifts & Goodies, 298-5609, calicocornergiftsandgoodies.com.

Offers a line of baked goods and person-alized cakes all made to order, with nothingkept frozen or made ahead of time. Daytimedelivery available for a small charge.

Carolina Mountain Bakery, 1950 Hen-dersonville Road, No. 11, Asheville, 681-5066, carolinamountainbakery.com. Bakingcakes since 1997, any color or theme can beincorporated into your cake design.

CinTom’s Frozen Custard, 3080 SweetenCreek Road, Asheville, 274-5853. Home-made custard available in several flavors.

City Bakery, 88 Charlotte St., Asheville,254-4289; 60 Biltmore Ave., 252-4426;citybakery.net. Cakes made from scratch in aselection of sizes with a variety of cakeflavors, fillings and frostings. Traditional layercakes to poundcakes to cheesecakes.

Cold Stone Creamery, 129 Bleachery Blvd.,Asheville, 296-0004; 30 Town Square Blvd.,Asheville; coldstonecreamery.com. A varietyof ice cream cakes with children’s themes.

Dairy Queen, 2304 Hendersonville Road,Arden, 687-1883; Asheville Mall, Asheville,298-1068; 26 Tunnel Road, Asheville, 253-6835. Ice cream cakes that serve eight to24 people.

Great American Cookie Co., Asheville Mall,3 Tunnel Road, 298-2849, greatameri-

cancookies.com. Specializes in customizedcookie cakes, cupcakes and cookies.

Harris Teeter, 1378 Hendersonville Road,Asheville, 274-5304, harristeeter.com.Custom cakes in several sizes and themes.

Party food

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT Short Street Cakes in West Asheville offers a variety of birthday cake options.

Continues on

24 W N C P A R E N T | J U L Y 2 0 0 9

Ingles, several WNC locations, ingles-mar-kets.com. Cakes in a variety of themes and12-inch cookies made to order in store andonline.

Kamm’s, Grove Arcade, 1 Page Ave., Ashe-ville, 253-7464, kammscustard.com. Spe-cializes in frozen custard pies, cookie sand-wiches, bulk packaging for scooping, cus-tom-made flavor treats with your choice ofmore than 35 flavors and mix-ins, Italianices, and sugar-free and low-carb flavors.The store also has a transportable rollingcart with umbrella that can keep custardfrozen for up to nine hours without electricity.

Kilwin’s Chocolates, Fudge and Ice Cream,26 Battery Park Ave., Asheville, 252-2639;116 W. State St., Black Mountain, 669-6119.Treats perfect for birthday parties, includingice cream; chocolate-dipped cookies, marsh-mallow puffs, and Rice Krispie Treats; fudge;caramel corn; caramel apples.

Paris Bakery, 1020 Merrimon Ave., Ashe-ville, 252-2315. Customized birthdaycakes in a variety of sizes.

Sam’s Club, 645 Patton Ave., Asheville,251-5243; 300 Highlands Square Drive,Hendersonville, 698-6889; samsclub.com.Cakes in a variety of sizes made to order.

Short Street Cakes, 225 Haywood Road,Asheville, 505-4822, shortstreetcakes.com.A family owned cakery specializing in natu-rally handcrafted down-home Southerndesserts. Specialty gluten-free, sugar-freeand vegan options available.

The Hop, 640 Merrimon Ave., Asheville,254-2224, thehopicecreamcafe.com. Shopfeaturing all-natural, homemade ice creams.

The Sisters McMullen, 55 Weaverville High-way, No. 9, Asheville, 252-9330; 1 N. PackSquare, Asheville, 252-9454. Pastries andcakes in several sizes and flavors, includinggluten-free and vegan choices.

Sugar Momma’s Cookies, 22 S.W. PackSquare (the Jackson Building), Suite LL100,251-7277, sugarmommascookies.com. Hothomemade cookies for pickup or delivery in

a number of varieties, including a veganoption.

TCBY, 1800 Hendersonville Road, Asheville,274-1100; 671 Spartanburg Highway, Hen-dersonville, 693-0925; 2344 U.S. 70, Swan-nanoa, 686-7900; tcby.com. Low-fat yogurtcakes and pies.

True Confections, Grove Arcade, 1 PageAve., Suite 147, 350-9480, [email protected]. From scratch, all-natural cakesusing no artificial coloring, flavoring, orpreservatives, and less sugar that conven-tional bakeries.

Ultimate Ice Cream, 1070 Tunnel Road,Asheville, 296-1234. More than 100 flavorsof ice cream — about 30 featured at any onetime — available in pints and quarts. Icecream pies also available.

Wal-Mart Supercenter, multiple locationsaround WNC. Birthday cakes made to order.

West End Bakery & Café, 757 HaywoodRoad, West Asheville, 252-9378, onhay-wood.com/westendbakery. Many sizes andflavors of cakes, including wheat-free, gluten-free and vegan choices with several types offrosting to choose from.

World’s Best Carrot Cake, 175 WeavervilleHighway, Asheville, 658-2738, worldsbe-stcarrotcake.com. Five kinds of all-naturalcarrot cake made by hand in small batches.Organic, vegan and gluten-free options.Cupcakes available.

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENTCalico Corner Gifts & Goodies offers made-from-scratch cakes.

Party foodContinued from Page 23


Par-T-Perfect, Asheville, 687-2494, [email protected], par-t-perfect.com. Acomplete children’s party service that offersa wide variety of inflatables, face painters,balloon twisters, games, crafts, bear stuffingparties and more. Fully insured and stateinspected.

The Party Pixie, Wendy Land, 606-4827,thepartypixie.com. A children’s party plan-ning business for the all-inclusive birthdayparty. Services include mailed custom in-vitations, costumes, games, crafts, snacks,decorations, music and more. Themes in-clude (but are not limited to) pirate, cowboy,superhero, knights, princess, day spa, rockstar/diva and pink poodle.

The Baggie Goose, 3 Swan St., Asheville,274-3333, [email protected], baggie-goose.com. Invitations for every occasion.

Carolina Party & Paper, 1000 BrevardRoad, Suite 167, Asheville, 681-0026, caro-linapartyandpaper.com. Carries a largeselection of handmade paper, stationary,party supplies, gift wrap and unique gifts.Store specializes in printable invitations tomatch any theme.

Celebrations, 495 Watson Road, Arden,687-7774; 265 Tunnel Road, Asheville,255-5868. Party supplies in dozens ofthemes and a rainbow of colors.

If It’s Paper, 28 New LeicesterHighway, Asheville, 253-3910.Party supplies and partygoods for many themes andpatterns are stocked. Bothmylar and helium bal-loons can be purchased.Candles, favors, banners,piñatas, confetti, gift wrapand treat bags also are

available.

K&C’s Party Supplies, 582 HendersonvilleRoad, Asheville, 274-7773. Themed andplain party supplies.

Kmart, several area locations, kmart.com.Themed and plain party supplies, invitations,wrapping paper and ribbon.

Party Blvd., 21 Long Shoals Road, Asheville,partyblvd.com. Party supplies in themes anda variety of colors. Store specializes in giantballoons, balloon bouquets, party favors,banners, gifts and invitations for every occa-sion.

Target, two area locations, target.com. Partysupplies, invitations, wrapping paper andribbon.

Wal-Mart, several area locations, walmart-.com. Party supplies, invitations, wrappingpaper and ribbon.

Asheville Face Painting, 606-0598, Ashe-villeFacePainting.com, [email protected]. Artist Michelle Bevans special-izes in artistic, unique face painting.

AshevilleKidsParty.com, [email protected], 712-7150. Specializes inkaraoke, dance, movie-making, music video-making and giant screen movie/game par-ties.

The Balloon Fairy, 423-2030, balloonfairy-magic.com. Marcie creates balloon art andperforms interactive magic for events. She isa “deco-twister,” creating custom balloonsculptures for events.

Bounce About Ltd., East Flat Rock, 693-9959, bounceaboutltd.com, [email protected]. Inflatables rented forevents, including bounce houses, obstaclecourse, slide and more. Tents also available.

Partyplanning

Continues on

Party supplies Partyentertainment

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Caricatures by Helen Nagan, 298-8546;[email protected]. Fun, exciting, colorcaricatures in less than five minutes. Get adrawing involving a favorite sport, hobby orjust having fun. Nagan says there’s no needto sit still while she puts your likeness on 11”x 17” paper in black and colored markers.

Carolina Caricatures, 298-1350, brianvasi-lik.blogspot.com. Brian Vasilik has drawncaricatures at Bele Chere and the Grove ParkInn. He draws at parties and other events,and can draw gift caricatures.

CrossWay Creative Ministries, 410 Old FortRoad, Fairview, 777-2711. Specializes inparty theme balloon decor and program-ming, including black light puppet-ry, clowning, illusion, balloon enter-taining and sculptures for all ages.

Funtastic Faces Face Painting,Lesley Barkett, funtasticfaces.net,

[email protected],280-7926. Transform yourbirthday child and his or herguests into princess, Spider-Man, tigers and more. Special-

izes in elaborate face painting using onlyFDA-approved nontoxic, hypoallergenic face-painting makeup.

Good Times Inflatables, 775-3232, good-timesinflatables.com. Provides inflatablegames and rides, and other interactivegames for parties of any size. Includes deliv-ery and set up.

Helen Holifield, storyteller, 216-8849, [email protected] children at birthday andholiday parties with stories. Holi-field specializes in world tales andmyths, and can design programsbased on a child’s interest, likeprincesses, pirate, animals andmore. Programs can involve songsand movement as well as stories,depending on the ages and in-terest.

HighTouch HighTech, 277-5611,sciencemadefun.net. Provideshands-on science programs forkids at your party venue. Partiesinclude a fun-filled, fast-paced75-minute science adventure, all

science supplies and materials,participation for the birthdaychild 4 and older and up to14 of his/her friends (fee foreach additional child), take-home experiments for eachchild, science certificate of

participation for each child, specialscience gift for the birthday child.

Joyful Spirits, Jan Parkerson, 298-1090,[email protected], joyfulspiritsmus-ic.com. Hammered dulcimer music, solo orensemble, performed by an experiencedmusicians.

Just for Fun Playgrounds, 543 Short Mc-Dowell St., Asheville, 225-5868, jffpg.com.Install a custom wooden playground in timefor a birthday party to keep the kids enter-tained. Do-it-yourself kits available on somemodels.

The Magic and Comedyof Bill Grimsley,687-7774, bill-grimsley.com. Aprofessionalentertainer formore than 20years, Bill Grim-sley providesmagic and humorfor a variety ofevents.

Mark DeVerges, 713-6396, [email protected], markdeverges.com. Fromballoon twisting and large-scale ballooncreations to roving magic and full magicshows.

Paint Savvy, 336-971-2890, [email protected], paintsavvy.com. Asignature face painting company availablefor events of all kinds that creates decoratedfaces including animals, super heroes, prin-cess crowns, eye designs, monsters, flowersand more. Uses FDA-approved paints withkid safety seal.

Space Walk of Asheville, 683-8500,herecomesfun.com. Inflatables,

bounce houses, slides andmore for rent.

STJ’s Inflatables, 710 TracyGrove Road, Flat Rock, 696-0674, [email protected], stjspar-tiesandevents.com. Inflat-ables, climibing wall, minigolf, dunk tank, limbo, con-cession supplies and more for

rent.

PartyentertainmentContinued from Page 25

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT Carolina Caricatures can draw caricatures at yourchild’s birthday party.

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENTLesley Barkett ofFuntastic Facesspecializes in elabo-rate face painting.


Blake Madden Photography, 669-0555,maddenphoto.com, [email protected]. Experienced event coverage andportraiture for all occasions.

Olan Mills Studio, inside Kmart, 1001 Pat-ton Ave., Asheville, 281-1485. A variety ofpackages offered for birthdays of any age.

Rebecca D’Angelo, rebeccadangelophotog-raphy.com, 357-8327 or 571-212-0298.Photographs events of all kinds.

WNC Snap Inc., P.O. Box 1346, Burnsville,284-3156, wncsnap.zenfolio.com,[email protected]. Customized photog-raphy.

Partyphotography

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT Blake Madden Photography can capture memories from your child’s birthday.

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On this day in 1776, the Declaration ofIndependence was approved by the Conti-nental Congress, setting the 13 colonies onthe road to freedom as a sovereign nation.As always, this most American of holidayswill be marked by parades, fireworks andbackyard barbecues across the country.

2.5 million: In July 1776, the estimatednumber of people living in the newly inde-pendent nation.

307 million: The nation’s population on thisJuly Fourth.

31: Number of places nationwide with “liber-ty” in their name. The most populous one asof July 1, 2007, is Liberty, Mo. (29,993).Iowa, with four, has more of these placesthan any other state: Libertyville, New Liberty,North Liberty and West Liberty.

31: Places with “eagle” in their name — afterthe majestic bird that serves as our nationalsymbol. The most populous such place isEagle Pass, Texas, with 26,285 residents.

11:Placeswith“inde-pen-dence” intheir name.The mostpopulous ofthese is Independ-ence, Mo., with110,704 residents.

5: Places adopted the name “freedom.”Freedom, Calif., with 6,000 residents, hasthe largest population among these.

1: Place named “patriot” — Patriot, Ind., witha population of 190.And what could be more fitting than spend-ing the Fourth of July in a place called“America”? There are five such places in thecountry, with the most populous being Amer-ican Fork, Utah, population 26,472.

More than 1 in 4: The chance that the hotdogs and pork sausages consumed on the

Fourthof July

originated inIowa. The

Hawkeye Statewas home to 19.3

million hogs and pigs onMarch 1. This represents more than one-fourth of the nation’s total. North Carolina(9.4 million) and Minnesota (7.3 million)were the runners-up.

6.8 billion pounds: Total production of cattleand calves in Texas in 2007. Chances aregood that the beef hot dogs, steaks andburgers on your backyard grill came from theLone Star State, which accounted for aboutone-sixth of the nation’s total production.And if the beef did not come from Texas, itvery well may have come from Nebraska (4.7billion pounds) or Kansas (4.1 billionpounds).

6: Number of states in which the revenuefrom broiler chickens was $1 billion or grea-ter between December 2006 and November2007. There is a good chance that one ofthese states — Georgia, Arkansas, NorthCarolina, Alabama, Mississippi or Texas — isthe source of your barbecued chicken.

About 4 in 10: The odds that your side dishof baked beans originated from North Da-kota, which produced 39 percent of thenation’s dry, edible beans in 2008. Anotherpopular Fourth of July side dish is corn onthe cob. Florida, California, Georgia and NewYork together accounted for 61 percent of thesweet corn produced nationally in 2008.

861 million: Amount in pounds of watermel-on that Florida produced last year, leadingthe nation. Other leading producers of thispopular fruit included California, Texas andGeorgia.

$193 million: The value of fireworks import-ed from China in 2008, representing thebulk of all U.S. fireworks imported ($202million).

Source: Census Bureau

FOURTH OF JULY FACTS


My children havetaught me a lot: pa-tience, unconditionallove and the meritsof a long, hot bubblebath. Now, they’veshown me a new world. I’m not yetsure if I like it.

Since I practiced criminal law andhave written enough scary stories tokeep me up at night for decades, Iknow the dangers that lurk online.Before I let my teenager join Facebook— because, you know, she was thevery last teenager on the planet to beallowed to join Facebook — I had tosign up and check it out firsthand. Ieven required that she make me heronline “friend,” which will probablycome up in therapy one day. Soon, I

started getting “friend requests” frompeople I didn’t know.

Then myfriends gave megifts. Gifts aregood. I could usea new mixer,some officebookshelves and ahybrid car, in caseyou were wondering, but so far onFacebook, I have gotten virtual candyand plants. Maybe that’s for the best,since I won’t gain weight or cause ageranium’s un-timely death.

Still drowningin a sea of flairand quizzes, Ijoined Twitter. Itweet or maybe Itwit, I don’t know. No virtual gifts andno pokes if I fail to respond to a com-ment, but it’s still a new way of life for

me.I am torn. My daughter and her

friends commun-icate everythingin sound bitesand quickthoughts of 140characters or less.While I am(mostly) embrac-

ing social media, I wonder if my chil-dren will ever really appreciate thejoys of a long conversation over cof-fee, especially the kind where silences

are never awk-ward and every-one finds time tolinger over asecond cup.

Will my kidsever enjoy being

alone and disconnected from theworld, even for a time? Will theyabandon grammar and full sentences

in favor of a quick note 2 lol @ wht u rdoing?

I’m trying to roll with it and be thecool mom who can adapt to thechanging world. I refuse to be themom who can’t program the DVR orkeep up with my kids’ computer skills.And the truth is, they are still kids,and not as savvy as they think. Theyneed a parent looking on, in real lifeand online. Like every other season ofparenting, this one requires me to stepout and learn something new.

And since I’m chaperoning, excuseme while I respond to my virtualfriend. She needs to know which char-acter from “The Breakfast Club” ismost like me so she can send me theright piece of flair.

Chris Worthy is an attorney whotook down her shingle to be a stay-at-home mom. Contact her at [email protected].

growing together

Kids push parents to keep up with technologyBy Chris WorthyWNC Parentcolumnist

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We welcome photos of family, neighborhood, school, church and other so-cial activities involving children. Send your high-resolution photos, along witha brief description of the event, and names, ages and hometowns of everyonepictured. Don’t forget your name and contact information.

Send to Katie Wadington at [email protected] or WNC ParentPhotos, P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802.

SEND US YOUR PHOTOS

Demarion Dickson,2 years old in thisphoto, of Asheville,has a great time atthe March forBabies Walk inAsheville. Hisfamily completedthe whole sixmiles. Submittedby mom MichelleRumfelt. Conrad Traylor, age 2 1/2, of Asheville.

“Raining again, he says,” noted neighborMelody Riles, who submitted the photo.

Emelia Dills-Ashby, 5, of Candler, enjoystime at Hilton Head. Submitted by her par-ents, Ami and Kevin Dills-Ashby.


Alexander Black, age 2 1/2, of Candler, rides on his favorite toy motorcycle. His parents areAlex and Ashley Black. Submitted by his grandma, Karol Black.

Richard Blakeslee holds his daughter, 8-month-old Mary Day Rian Blakeslee, of Asheville.Submitted by Mary Day’s mom, Candice.

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As sweet andpink as Valentinecupcakes, thesetwo new picturebooks are sure toattract that subsetof children whocannot get their fill of princesses,fairies and frills.

In “The Hinky Pink,” author MeganMcDonald transforms an old, littleknown folk tale into a sparkling newstory. Set in Old Italy, “The HinkyPink” tells the story of poor, plainAnabel who is a seamstress of un-common talent. When she is sum-moned to make Princess Isabella Car-amella Gorgonzola a new dress for theButterfly Ball next week, the taskseems daunting but not impossible.Inspired by bolts of cloth in silk andsateen, Isabel sets to work eagerly.

When Isabel goes to bed however, hercovers are torn from her bed andsomeone or something pinches her.This goes on all night and every night.When day comes, Isabel is so tiredthat her sewing suffers. Her “seams[are] wrinkled as chicken skins, andher hems [zigzag] like chimneysmoke.” Another maid in the palacetells Isabel that the source of her trou-ble is a tiny Hinky Pink with a bigproblem. Once the Hinky Pink’s prob-lem is solved, Isabel’s problem will besolved, too. How Isabel accomplishesone to achieve the other is cleverindeed.

Buoyed by rhythmic refrains, col-orful similes, and Brian Floca’s pinkand ivory watercolors, “The HinkyPink” is a superb story to read aloudwith a small group.

In “Princess Bess Gets Dressed” byMargery Cuyler, the author showsPrincess Bess to be a very busy littlegirl. She has a dozen activities andevents to attend throughout the day,

and each one requires aparticular outfit. The out-fits are beautiful but soladen with layers and lacethat are itchy and stiff, thatPrincess Bess has to havetwo maids help her in andout of each one. At longlast, after a night of danc-ing at the fancy ball, Prin-cess Bess is sent to bed,where gleefully she stripsdown to a simple whitecamisole and underwear.“‘Now I’m in my favoriteclothes!’ [says] PrincessBess on tippy toes.” Elatedand comfortable, she fallsasleep. The breezy, rhym-ing text suits the light, funtone of the story.

Heather Maione’s illustrationscomplement the story perfectly.Rendered in candy almond shadesof pink, lavender, and green, Prin-cess Bess is pictured in all mannerof lace, ribbons, full skirts, andpuffy sleeves. Young readers will beenchanted. Sharp-eyed readers willenjoy other details too like spottingBess’s dog clowning around in eachpicture, sometimes matching Bessoutfit for outfit.

These books are available throughthe Buncombe County Public Librar-ies. Visit buncombecounty.org formore information.

librarian’s picks

Princesses, frills and fairies fill these titlesBy Jennifer PrinceChildren’s BookReviews


Quick dinnerHoney-oregano roasted chicken and carrots2 chicken-breasthalves with boneand skin (about 10ounces each)1 teaspoon olive oilSalt and pepper1 bag (8 ounces)peeled and baby-cut carrots1 tablespoon but-ter, softened

1 tablespoon honey3 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Brush chicken with oil and season with salt and pepper. Placechicken skin-side up in an ungreased baking pan. Bake for 25 minutes. Then add carrots topan, turn chicken skin-side down and roast for 25 minutes, so chicken roasts a total of 50minutes. Combine butter, honey, oregano and more salt and pepper in a small dish. Turn chick-en skin-side up and spoon some sauce on chicken and pour the rest over the carrots. Roast 5more minutes.Prep time: 5 minutes. Total time: 60 minutes. Serves 4.Approximate values per serving: 540 calories, 30 g fat, 161 mg cholesterol, 48 g protein, 18 gcarbohydrates, 3 g fiber, 242 mg sodium, 50 percent calories from fat.

Gannett News Service

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It has been saidthat birthdays aregood for you be-cause researchindicates thatpeople who havethe most live thelongest. I love what we learn fromresearch.

Divorced and divorcing people,however, may find that birthdays are“good” based on three realities: whois having the birthday (the parent orthe child), the overall climate of thedivorce process (as rated from collab-orative to hostile) and one’s econom-ic realities. Let’s review each.

The birthdayIf the parent is the one having the

birthday, this should be less compli-cated. Unless custody has defined aparent as a potential threat, formerspouses often find that it is in theirmutual interest to allow children tospend time with their parent on theirspecial day. Children do not need tobe under the pressure of gift giving,as cards, purchased or homemade,can communicate their feelings ofdevotion. Many parents find that timewith their child is ultimately the mostprecious gift.

A child’s birthday, on the other

hand, is a tempting opportunity formisguided love and warfare if bothparents are not careful. Depending onthe existing state of collaboration orhostility, this event could be physi-cally shared, split up within the day,or rotated with one parent taking the“primary day” and the second parenttaking an alternative day, then switch-ing on the next year.

Regardless of the decided physicalarrangement, children will have aneven more pleasant experience withtheir birthdays if both parents striveto not “one up” each other in gifts,remind attending relatives andfriends to keep unkind remarks aboutthe ex to themselves, and if the chil-dren are reassured that it is OK tofeel love for both parents without itbecoming an issue of loyalty.

The processThe second piece intertwines with

everything divorce-related, which isthat children of divorce tend to thrivein collaborative atmospheres andwither in relations between parentsthat are combative. This does notmean that you and the ex-spousehave to be friends, but that your in-teractions should be as cordial andcivil as possible. This includes notonly what is said, but what is notsaid. If a child beams with telling astory about having fun with the otherparent and your response is silenceor “a look,” your child will get what

that means.If communication between parents

tends to dissolve frequently intofights, then try other ways to talk,like using e-mail or through a neutralthird person. With the passage oftime this can get easier. If it doesn’t,you may want to consider seeing atherapist to assist in developing theseabilities.

The economic realityThe last part has to do with being

realistic about your economic reality.The good news is that children re-member experiences more than toys.Did you experience how hard it wasto get that stupid Furby when it wasso popular? And where are thosethings now? Hopefully, they are beingreconditioned and parachuted behindenemy lines to drive the terroristscrazy with all their chirping banter.

And video games/systems … howmany nanoseconds does it take forthose to go out of style?

Trust me that simple games andtime spent playing those games withyour children still holds magic.Again, time is our greatest gift to andfrom our children, not things.

As for the birthday event itself, Icould list dozens of low-cost to no-

cost birthday celebrations. Go camp-ing at Lake Powhatan, Mount Pisgahor Mount Mitchell (or your backyard)as a family and/or with friends, havean upside-down party at your placewith the kids wearing pajamas andeating breakfast type food for dinner,go to the DuPont State Forest andhave a birthday picnic, rent lots ofcheesy movies and have an all nightlock in at your house with a “trophy”for the kid who stays awake the long-est, go to the WNC Nature Center orThe Health Adventure, have a swimparty (Lake Powhatan and Lake Lureare also inexpensive, but cold), scoutout places to go fishing and have afishing party, create your own putt-putt course within your yard (plasticclubs and balls are cheap), go see theAsheville Tourists play (and let themknow about your child’s birthday) orjust do “nothing,” but hang out atyour house and provide frozen pizzasand TV.

Trust me, I could go on and onwith the possibilities because we livein such a wonderful area with a mul-titude of resources. It is ultimatelyyour attitude, and a reasonable col-laboration from the other parent, thatcan make all the difference in theworld when it comes to celebratingbirthdays.

Trip Woodard is a licensed familyand marriage therapist and a clinicalmember of the N.C. Association ofMarriage and Family Therapists. Con-tact him at 606-8607.

divorced families

Birthdays are a lot smoother for kids whendivorced parents can collaborate peacefullyBy Trip WoodardWNC Parentcolumnist

GANNETT NEWS SERVICE

Regardless of the decided physicalarrangement, children will have aneven more pleasant experiencewith their birthdays if both parentsstrive to not ‘one-up’ each other ingifts, remind attending relativesand friends to keep unkind re-marks about the ex to themselves,and if the children are reassuredthat it is OK to feel love for bothparents without it becoming anissue of loyalty.


Mamamegan asked in ‘Tradingchild care’:

“I’m a single mama ISO otherfamilies to trade child care with. Ican’t afford a babysitter right nowand I work most weekend evening/nights for a catering company. Slum-ber parties at my place would workout great! I’ve got a spare bedroom,plenty of toys, kiddy snacks and greatkid DVDs. Let me know if anyone outthere is interested!”

Kathryn responded:“I am also a single mom in the

same boat except I work days, M-F.Sounds like a good trade if you couldhelp cover days when school is out —that’s my biggest hassle! I’m in direneed of ‘me’ time but haven’t beenable to make it work. If your interest-ed, let me know and we’ll discusssome details!”

Meggan wrote in ‘Moving toAsheville’:

“I don’t know anyone in Asheville,so I figured who better to ask about acity than other moms. I am a teacherand looking for a job around theAsheville area. My husband just hasto be able to get into Asheville in 30minutes for his job. Which schoolsand/or school systems are the best(city/county)? We are also looking forpossible neighborhoods or suburbsto live in. … I would love an area thathas trees and a park. … Low crime/safety is a must as we are movingfrom a city with a horrible crime rate.I just want a nice neighborhood toraise a family in. What areas do youthink we should look in?”

Micah responded:“Currently, the job market for

teachers in our area is pretty grim.…You could certainly check withprivate schools. … Haywood Countyis also a good place to live. It is moreof a country setting, and has a rela-tively low crime rate. I have livedhere all my life, so I am a bit biased.Best of luck to you.”

FROM THE FORUMS AND PHOTO GALLERIES

Oliver, postedby Jen.

Posted byC Sawyer.

ARE YOU A MEMBER?Sign up at WNCmom.com to join the conversation and share photos.

38 W N C P A R E N T | J U L Y 2 0 0 9

“It’s hard to monitor how muchwe’re saving,” she said. “But I’d say weprobably easily buy $250 worth ofgroceries for about $40 or $50 amonth.”

While coupons can save a signif-icant amount of money, there areother techniques that can stretch ahousehold’s budget.

Anne Foreman, a wife and motherof eight from Black Mountain, saidshoppers make a mistake when theygo into a supermarket with a pre-determined list of ingredients for thatnight’s dinner.

What’s for dinner“The one thing I’ve always told my

Pay full price for shampoo, diapersor toothpaste? No way, says savvyshopper Jennifer Tate, a wife and stay-at-home mother of two from Fairview.

“Diapers, toothpaste, toothbrushes,cosmetics — we’re getting them forliterally 10 cents and under apiece,when you double up on the coupons,plus a sale or clearance price item,”Tate said.

The secret is in the coupons andthe preshopping research, she said.

Tate and her sister-in-law split thecost of 20 copies of the Sunday Citi-zen-Times each week, scoring a pleth-ora of multiple money-saving cou-pons. Then, using Web-based forumsand sites like afullcup.com, the twowomen research what’s on special atfour or five local grocery stories andan equal number of drugstores.

“We pretty much have all the workdone for us,” Tate said. The onlineforums are “basically a bunch of stay-at-home moms who post their ownfindings at various supermarkets anddrugstores, and there are a bunch ofdifferent forums like from Food Lion,Bi-Lo, CVS and other stores,” she said.

3-4 hours a weekThere is work involved for the

shoppers, however: about three orfour hours worth of research to matchup the coupons with what’s on sale atvarious stores, then organizing thecoupons and making a detailed list ofitems to be purchased. Plus time forthe shopping itself.

But it’s worthwhile, Tate said.

kids and the wives of my sons is to notgo to the grocery store with a list ofthe ingredients you need to make acertain dish, because they’re probablynot going to be on sale,” said Foreman,who owns Moments Coffee Bar andSimply Anne’s Elegant Catering inSwannanoa.

“You should go see what’s on sale,and then decide what you’re going tomake based on what you find,” shesaid.

And while she shops regularly atmainline grocery stores, she’s also achampion of discount markets likeGrocery Outlet and Dickie’s in Swan-nanoa.

“They have fantastic stuff — youcan get mustard and mayonnaise for

49 cents a jar,” she said. “And because gourmet foods in

grocery stores often have troubleselling, you can find a lot of gourmetingredients at great prices a the dis-count outlets.”

Stretch your budget with careful couponingBy Barbara BlakeStaff writer

PHOTO BY JOHN COUTLAKISJennifer Tate collects coupons and researches grocery store and drugstore deals to maxi-mize her savings. With her is her 1 1/2-year-old daughter.

INSIDER TIPS FOR SAVINGSHOPPING DOLLARSCombine savings: Match coupons withsales on the same items at local stores,especially those offering double cou-pons. Plan to hit multiple stores.New products: Watch for coupons forcompanies’ just-launched products —stores often have them discounted priceto foster brand loyalty.Swap coupons with friends or buy extracopies of the Sunday newspaper, anduse duplicate coupons to buy largequantities of frequently used itemsMeat markdowns: Buy meat discountedbecause of looming “sell by” dates;freeze it immediately, and there’s nodifference in quality.Stack” coupons: Hold onto them untilan item goes on sale, preferably whenthe store is doubling or tripling coupons.If you’re not doubling or combining thecoupon with a sale, you’re not getting thebest deal. Be patient.Early bird, night owl: Visit grocery storesearly in the morning or late at night tofind good markdown deals on meat andproduce.Know your limits: Learn stores’ couponpolicies and be prepared for a follow-uptrip if there are daily limits. Have cou-pons organized by store so you don’thold up the line.


If you’re looking to change yoursummer-grilling repertoire, turn toThailand for inspiration.

For centuries, Thai cooks have litcharcoal to coax out intoxicatingflavors of a cuisine known for its bal-ance of hot, sour, salty and sweet.

“Thai is a simple cuisine with freshflavors, and one that loves the grill.You walk down the street and every-one is grilling something,” says TottieKaya, chef and owner of Tottie’s AsianFusion, a Scottsdale, Ariz., eateryspecializing in Thai, Vietnamese,Chinese and Japanese cuisines.

Whether chicken wings or mangoand bok choy skewers, Thai off thegrill offers the perfect opportunity fordevoted backyard cooks to fire uptheir taste buds. Grilling ethnic foodsrequires more thought and ingredi-ents than the standard garlic-powder-and-seasoned-salt hunk of meat, butfor those drawn to Thai’s clean, potentflavors, it’s worth it. A bonus: GrilledThai food is relatively low in fat.

“The grill allows us to experiencecultures in our own backyards. Andfor those wanting to eat healthy, Thaiis a perfect starting point,” says CandyLesher, grilling expert with SunWestAppliance Distributing and CookingStudio AZ in Tempe, Ariz.

Americans are more adventure-some than ever regarding ethnicdishes. According to one industrygroup, one in seven U.S. food dollarsin the next decade will be spent onethnic foods, an all-time high.

Kaya, a native of Laos, has wit-nessed firsthand the increasing in-terest in ethnic foods, specifically, thecuisines of Southeast Asia.

“Customers start with what theyknow, something safe, but we encour-age them to expand and eat food fromother countries,” says Kaya.

Although grilling is simpler thantraditional meals, like galangal soup orthe noodle dish pad Thai, she usesmany of the same ingredients, such aslemongrass, Thai basil and currypaste. Most grilled meals require sev-eral hours of marinating. For quickThai fixes, grill unadorned shrimp,chicken, fish or beef and serve withcurry or peanut dipping sauces. Lef-tovers can be diced and served hot orcold in lettuce leaves.

Spice up your backyard grilling with Thai By Karen FernauGannett News Service Lemongrass chicken wings

2 tablespoons finelyminced lemongrass1 tablespoon sugar4 cloves garlic, crushed2 tablespoons Thai fishsauce2 tablespoons paprika4 Kaffir lime leaves,thinly sliced2 tablespoons coconutmilk1 dozen chicken wings

In a bowl, mix lemon-grass, sugar, garlic, fishsauce, paprika, lime andcoconut milk until well-blended. Place chicken ina glass baking dish anddrench in the marinade.Cover and refrigerate overnight, or at least 2 hours.Heat charcoal or gas grill on high. When hot, cook chicken wings, turning often, for 15 to 20minutes. Serve with a Thai curry or sweet chili sauce. Makes 4 servings.Source: Chef Tottie Kaya, Tottie’s Asian Fusion in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Beef lemongrass sticks2 tablespoons sesame oil2 tablespoons honey4 cloves garlic, chopped1/2 teaspoon white pepper1 tablespoon paprika2 tablespoons Thai fish sauce1 teaspoon soy sauce2 to 3 pounds rib-eye steak, sliced intothin stripsLemongrass stalks, 4 inches long, slightlynarrower than a drinking strawSweet chili sauce for dipping

In a bowl, mix sesame oil, honey, garlic,pepper, paprika, fish sauce and soy sauceuntil well-blended. Add steak strips tobowl, cover and marinate overnight inrefrigerator, or for at least 4 hours.Skewer strips on lemongrass stalks.Heat gas or charcoal grill to high. Whenhot, grill steak on direct heat for 3 to 4minutes for rare. Makes 4 servings.Source: Chef Tottie Kaya, Tottie’s AsianFusion in Scottsdale, Ariz.

GANNETT NEWS SERVICE

40 W N C P A R E N T | J U L Y 2 0 0 9

Whether you are grilling hamburg-ers, ribs, steak or salmon, side dishesare necessary to complete any meal.As long as you have the grill fired up,why not grill a few vegetables toround out the menu?

Each spring just as grills are readi-ed for another season of outdoorcooking, Vidalia onions show up ingrocery stores. These onions from a22-county area of Georgia are billed asthe world’s sweetest onions, but de-spite their sweet flavor, each oniononly has 22 calories. They generallyare available April through October inmost areas of the country.

Although Vidalia onions are speci-fied for this recipe, any small- to me-dium-sized sweet onions will work.

E-mail Linda Masters at [email protected].

Grilled veggies enhance any mealBy Linda MastersGannett News Service Grilled Vidalia onions

4 small- to medium-sized Vidalia onions4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil4 teaspoons butter4 beef bouillon cubes

Cut the top of each onion. Using a vegeta-ble peeler, knife or your fingers, peel thepaper skins from the onions, leaving rootends intact.Core onions, being careful not to cut intothe roots, because you need the root intactto hold the onion together. Place eachonion on a square of heavy-duty aluminumfoil. Drizzle each with 1 tablespoon oliveoil.Place a bouillon cube in the center of eachonion and top with 1 teaspoon butter.Wrap onions with the foil and grill on avery hot grill over indirect heat or bake in a350-degree oven about 35-40 minutes.Note: Substitute butter-flavored cookingspray for the butter. You also can cut themeasurement for the olive oil down to 1teaspoon per onion, if desired.

GANNETT NEWS SERVICEUnusual sweet corn and grilled Vidalia onions are side dishes that pair well with any grilledmeat, including hamburgers.

Unusual sweet cornThis recipe is an adaptation from a baked trout recipe where mayonnaise is used to keep thefish moist. Since it’s easy to overcook sweet corn and end up with dry, tough kernels, themayonnaise also works well in this recipe.

Sweet corn, husked and cleanedMayonnaiseGreek seasoning or any all-purpose seasoning saltSmoked paprika

Lightly brush each ear of corn with mayonnaise. Sprinkle with Greek seasoning or your favoriteseasoning salt and smoky paprika.Wrap in aluminum foil and grill over hot indirect heat about 45 minutes, or until kernels are softwhen pricked with a fork. Open the foil and cook an additional 5-10 minutes. Remove foil andserve.You can also bake the corn in a conventional 350-degree oven.Note: For easy removal ofhusks and silk, divide the silk in half before pulling down the husks. The silk will come off withthe husks every time.


I am in the middle of summer bas-ketball camps, working with hundredsof young kids during these 10 weeks.My job as well as my desire is to cor-rect and/or teach proper shootingform and mechanics. Many of the kidswho come to camp need lots of cor-rection with their shooting. But, withcorrection comes change. This is thehard part. Breaking old habits for thenew pure jump shot. It’s not easy. Itfeels weird.

A kid who shoots and makes fiveout of 10 free throws with bad me-chanics can improve that percentageby using the right technique. Theproblem is that for a few weeks oreven months that percentage usuallywill drop when shooting form is cor-rected. This is hard for the kids towork through. For many kids, thefrustration of missing shots for a shorttime is too tough to deal with, so theold patterns are put back in to play.

Those who can hang in there andwork through the new style will even-tually come out much better. Theyneed to be patient and look for smallbut steady progress. Here is yet anoth-er time when sports carry over intoreal life. We often do what feels good,or what we’ve become accustomed todoing because it is comfortable and itbrings temporary results, but we formlife patterns that aren’t grounded inwhat is right and true.

This is why so many kids do fine asyoung players and then later see littleor no progress. They find themselvesgetting cut from the junior high andhigh school teams and join the ranksof those who hang up their sneakers.Early success was the product of earlymaturity, and athleticism. They didn’tneed proper mechanics to be the star.

In the high school years, propermechanics becomes just as importantas athleticism. The early gifted athletenow finds himself being challenged by

those he used to dominate.These other players went through

the learning curve to become better.Their skills have now improved to alevel that carries them through whentheir athleticism falls short.

Believe it or not, I have had parentswho wouldn’t let their child gothrough that learning curve. Theycouldn’t stand to watch their childmake fewer free throws than before. Ihad a dad tell me once that hewouldn’t let his son shoot with theproper form because he made fewershots at practice the night before.That is the learning curve! This kidhas a rough road ahead of him withbasketball unless he makes thoseneeded changes.

That is why you send your kids toan expert in the field … to get better.Getting better sometimes requiresgetting worse results for a short time.

Just hang in there and fight throughthe temptation of going back to theold way just because it feels better.Doing things the right way will pay offin the long run.

Write to Tom Kuyper at [email protected].

kids in sports

Learning the right way,not the comfortableway, isn’t often easy

By Tom KuyperGannett News Service

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

42 W N C P A R E N T | J U L Y 2 0 0 9

Last year’s hot fitness game was“Wii Fit”; this year it’s “EA SportsActive.”

What makes “EA Sports Active” sogood is that it provides you with yourown virtual personal trainer. There isnothing like positive feedback to makeyou do one more lunge even thoughyour thighs are screaming.

In developing “EA Sports Active”for the Nintendo Wii, Electronic Artsworked with fitness experts, includingBob Greene, Oprah’s renowned fitnessguru, who appears in the game. Inaddition to motivation from Greene,you’ll have your own virtual trainertalking you through your workouts.You can choose to be motivated by amale or a female trainer.

This Nintendo Wii fitness programcomes with a resistance band and aspecial thigh strap to hold the Wiinunchuk controller. The program has

exercises that cover cardio fitness,upper and lower body strengtheningand sports practice. For the cardiofitness, there are a series of exercisesthat focus on running, walking, highstepping and kick-ups. There are 22exercises that focus on upper andlower body muscles. You can alsoincorporate the Wii balance boardfrom “Wii Fit” if you have one, but itisn’t necessary. For exercise by doingpretend sports, the program coverstennis, boxing, dancing, volleyball,basketball, inline skating and baseball.

What makes “EA Sports Active” sogood is the ease with which you canuse it. If you are looking for structure,try the 30 Day Challenge mode, wherethe program mixes up all of the pos-

sible activities to create varied work-outs that focus on specific musclegroups. By providing you with or-dered workouts (rotating what youwork on each day), the programmakes sure you don’t overwork a spe-cific muscle group. And this challengeis available on three levels of intensity,so it’s good for the exercise newbie orthe gym-rat.

If you want to be in charge of whatexercise you do, then the programoffers you preset and custom workoutoptions. With more than 60 presetworkouts created by fitness experts,you select how long you work out aswell as the area of focus. With thecustom workout option, you can dragand drop exercises to a timeline. Thisoption is perfect for families lookingto create workout routines for chil-dren because you can select the sportsgames that make working out morefun.

Another plus for families is that theprogram can be used by two people atonce, with two avatars appearing onthe screen. That way a parent and achild can have fun working out to-gether. If you want to do this, you willneed to invest in an EA Sports Acces-sory Pack (for $20), which includes anextra resistance band and thigh strap.

Like “Wii Fit,” “EA Sports Active”tracks your progress by keeping trackof your exercise. Unlike “Wii Fit,” itdoesn’t track your weight; rather itfocuses on calories burned, hoursworking out and the number of work-out sessions you have completed overa period of time. It also has a journalfeature, which helps you keep track oflifestyle and nutritional needs likeservings of vegetables you ate, hoursof sleep and the glasses of water youhave consumed.

“EA Sports Active” provides a ro-bust exercise program and delivers onits promise of providing a “personaltrainer in a box.”

For families wanting to use thisprogram with kids, it is unfortunatethat you can’t make your on-screenpersonas look like kids. You can setskin tone, hairstyle, body type andclothing accessories; but all the ava-tars are adults.

If you thought “Wii Fit” was good,you will love “EA Sports Active.” Ifyou haven’t tried either and you areserious about your exercise, choose“EA Sports Active.”

Gudmundsen is the editor of Com-puting With Kids magazine (Compu-tingWithKids.com). Contact her [email protected].

video games

‘EA Sports Active’ helps families work outBy Jinny GudmundsenGannett News Service

‘EA SPORTS ACTIVE’Rating: 5 stars (out of 5)Best for: ages 7 and olderFrom Electronic Arts, easportsactive.com,$60.

GANNETT NEWS SERVICE With “EA Sports Active” from Electronic Artsfor the Nintendo Wii, two players can exer-cise together with both seeing their avatarson the screen.


You workdays and yourspouse worksnights. On topof this insaneschedule, youare trying toraise a family. How can you manage allthat needs to be done to keep yourfamily together? By taking turns anddoing what many parents do — workin tandem as tag-team parents: Getorganized, plan ahead and treat eachother with respect!

◆ Prioritize each day, each week.Get a big calendar and put it whereeveryone can have access to it andcheck it every day. Class play or recit-al coming up on Tuesday? Doctorappointment on Friday? Take care of

what must be taken care of first. Goover the must-do list with your spouseand divvy up who will handle what.

◆ Keep in reach. Phone, e-mail,instant message, text or otherwisecommunicate to stay in touch witheach other. You can also use thesetoys to keep the other parent in theloop when they are not able to be withthe rest of the family. Take a photo ofthe soccer game and send it to yourchildren’s other parent. Or text “Justscored a goal!” while your spouse is atwork.

◆ Spread the love. Check in withmessages of love during the day bycalling when the kids come homefrom school to ask how their day was,tell them about yours and remindthem that even if you are not there,you still care about their daily lives.Oh, and do the same thing for yourtag-team spouse.

◆ Overlap. Try for a family meal

each day, no matter how brief a timeyou may have for it. Make it the mealyou might share during the “changingof the guard.” For instance, if one ofyou gets home early mornings and theother has to head out the door soonafterward, set the alarm a little bitearlier so you can sit down to a break-fast as a family, even if you have toleave midway through. Checking inwith each other face to face at leastpart of the day will minimize thestress.

◆ Time together. Plan to spendyour time together as a couple as wellas a family. Strive for at least one nighta month alone as a couple. It doesn’tneed to be a fancy dinner and dancingdate; a walk around the neighborhood

or sitting in the backyard dreamingnew dreams works just as well. Whenyou are together as a family, honor thenecessities of family life just as youwould if you had all the leisure time inthe world. Family rules should alwaysapply, in addition to family fun.

Tip from the parenting trenchesLook to the future: Reminding your

spouse that “this too shall pass” willhelp on those days it seems you mightwind up tag-teaming your whole life.Discuss an overall plan for getting onthe same work schedule. Set a limit onhow long you plan to live under yoursplit schedule. Put your plan intoaction and grow toward your goal.

Doreen Nagle is author of “But IDon’t Feel Too Old to Be a Mommy”(HCI, $12.95). E-mail her at [email protected].

parenting in a nutshell

Tag-You’re-It parenting keeps families togetherBy Doreen NagleGannett NewsService

Try for a family meal each day, nomatter how brief a time you mayhave for it.

44 W N C P A R E N T | J U L Y 2 0 0 9

Buncombe County PublicLibrariesFor more information visit buncombecoun-ty.org/governing/depts/Library/default.aspMother Goose Time (ages 4-18 months)11 a.m. Mondays: West Asheville10 a.m. Tuesdays: Pack Memorial (walkers)10:30 a.m. Tuesdays: Fairview11 a.m. Tuesdays: Pack Memorial (non-walkers)11 a.m. Wednesdays: Swannanoa, Weaver-ville (second and fourth Wednesdays)11 a.m. Thursdays: Oakley/South AshevilleToddler Time (ages 18-36 months)11 a.m. Tuesdays: Leicester10 a.m. Wednesdays: North Asheville10:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Fairview, Skyland/South Buncombe11 a.m. Wednesdays: West Asheville10 a.m. Thursdays: Pack Memorial, Swanna-noa10:30 a.m. Thursdays: Black Mountain,Enka-Candler11 a.m. Thursdays: Pack Memorial, Weaver-ville (second and fourth Thursdays only)Story time (ages 3-5)

11 a.m. Tuesdays: Weaverville (first and thirdTuesdays)10 a.m. Wednesdays: Oakley/South Asheville10:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Black Mountain,Enka-Candler, Leicester11 a.m. Wednesdays: East Asheville, NorthAsheville, Pack Memorial10:30 a.m. Thursdays: Fairview, Skyland/South Buncombe11 a.m. Thursdays: Swannanoa, West Ashe-ville11 a.m. Saturdays: East AshevilleSchool-age story time (ages 5-7)3:15 p.m. Thursdays: North AshevilleStorylineCall 251-5437 for a story anytime.Spanish Story timeWest Asheville Library, 942 Haywood Road,Asheville. Free story reading in Spanish forpreschool through kindergarten. Parentsneed to remain in the library.Call 251-4990 for more information.

Henderson County Public LibraryFor more information, visit henderson.lib.n-c.us.

Bouncing Babies (ages 0-18 months)11 a.m. Tuesdays: Etowah

11 a.m. Wednesdays: Fletcher, Main LibraryToddler time (ages 18 months-3 years)10 a.m. Tuesdays: Etowah10 a.m. Wednesdays: Fletcher10:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Main LibraryPreschool story time (ages 3-5)10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays: MainLibraryPreschool-Second Grade story time10:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Etowah, Fletcher4 O’clock Craft Club (kindergarten-fifthgrade)Main Library: 4 p.m. Thursdays in JulyFamily story time (all ages)Main Library: 10:30 a.m. Saturdays in JulyEdneyville: 10 a.m. MondaysGreen River: 10 a.m. ThursdaysMills River: 11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays

Barnes & NobleAsheville Mall, 3 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville,296-7335Story time: 11 a.m. Mondays (toddlers) and2 p.m. Saturdays (young readers).American Girl Club: Discussion and craftsbased, 4 p.m. third Saturday.Magic Tree House Club: 4 p.m. fourth Sun-day with discussion and activities.

Growing Young Café611 Tunnel Road, East Asheville, 299-44201 and 4 p.m. Saturdays

Area story times

PHOTO BY JOHN COUTLAKISEmily Widener, 4, left and Ashley Parsons, 6, gather around storyteller Melisa Pressleyduring an evening family story telling time at the Enka-Candler Branch Library. For detailson evening story times and other special events, see the Calendar of Events section, start-ing on Page 48.


Asheville City pools

Cost to swim is $3 per person, withdiscount passes and group rates avail-able. Malvern Hills and Walton Streetpools are open 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Mon-day-Friday; Recreation Park pool isopen noon-6 p.m. Monday-Friday. Allpools are open 11 a.m.-7p.m. Saturdayand 1-6 p.m. Sunday. For more infor-mation, visit ashevillenc.gov or call259-5800.

Swimming lessonsEach pool offers American Red

Cross swim lessons. Times vary bylocation. The next session is July 20-31.Registration starts 11 a.m. July 13. Les-sons are free.

Guard Start programLifeguard class is offered to youths

ages 11-14. It includes adult CPR in-struction. Class runs 9 a.m.-noon July6-16. For more information, call PamKelly at 350-2062 or 552-9226.

Buncombe County poolsCost to swim is $3 per person, with

discount passes available at all pools.Pool hours are noon-5:45 p.m. Mon-day-Friday, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, 11a.m.-6:45 p.m. Saturday and 1-6:45 p.m.Sunday. For more information, contactTeri Gentile at 684-5072 or [email protected].

Swimming lessonsAll county pools will offer two

swim lesson sessions. Session two isJuly 20-30; sign up starts July 13. Les-

sons run Monday-Thursday for twoweeks and are divided into five levelsof swim experience. Cost is $25 persession. Children ages 5 and olderswim 11-11:45 a.m.; ages 3-4 swim 11-11:30a.m. Swimmers at levels 1, 2 and 3 cantake evening lessons, from 6-6:45.

Session one: Sign up begins noonJune 15. Lessons June 22-July 2.

Session two: Sign up begins noonJuly 13. Lessons July 20-30.

Swim for freePools will host Super Sunday Spe-

cials this summer. Get free admissionbetween 1-2 p.m. Specials for July in-clude:

July 5: Independence bathing suitday (wear a red, white or blue suit)

July 12: MANNA food day (bring acanned food item and get in free)

July 19: Baby day (all childrenyounger than 3)

July 26: Pet day (bring a picture ofyour pet)

Hendersonville’s Patton PoolCost to swim is $4 for adults, $3 for

youths and seniors if residents ofHendersonville. Passes are available;applications are at cityofhendersonvil-le.org. Patton Pool is open noon-8 p.m.Monday-Saturday and 1-6 p.m. Sun-days. Lap swim is available 10 a.m.-1p.m. Monday-Saturday. The pool is at1610 Asheville Highway. For moreinformation, call 697-3081.

Swimming lessons and water aero-bics are available.

PHOTO BY KATE HARRISON Recreation Park Pool is full of people enjoying a sunny afternoon.

Take a dip in thepool this summer

46 W N C P A R E N T | J U L Y 2 0 0 9

Word search

crabdolphinjellyfishlampreylobstermollusksoctopusotterpenguinsea turtlesealsharkshrimpspongesquidstarfishstingraywalrus

whale

Kids pageColoring

Connect the dots

Maze


puzzles for parents

ACROSS1. Passed with flying colors5. Harry Potter’s mail carrier8. Body of an organism12. Cool character, ____ Suave13. Eating poorly can give your stomach oneof these14. Make unclear15. J Lo’s husband16. ____away17. She’s considered one of America’s greatpoets18. Location of left, center and right20. Stoolpigeon21. Speak pompously22. In a distant place23. Lemon in Paris26. Peas, beans and lentils, e.g.30. He stung like a bee?31. Trouble in Yiddish34. Better alternative to fast food?35. Conflict37. Caviar38. She charmed the Beast39. Eagle’s nest40. Redskins’ owner42. Poetic “even”43. Has its own bowl game, pl.45. Nine-day Catholic devotion47. Done after knotting shirt48. Trees that produce type of food thickener50. Type of nuclear missile52. Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, e.g.55. A grade of black tea56. Highly excited57. Cheap showy jewelry59. Smallest parts of element having sameproperties as element60. World’s longest river61. Precedes stated rank62. Surrealist Magritte63. Right-angle building extension64. Has nose in the air

DOWN1. Length to be held off2. Goodbye, adios, au revoir3. Very light brown4. Keeps away from apples?5. Eight performing together6. Healthful grains7. Raunchy8. Not completely nude9. War god in Norse mythology10. More important to kids than adults11. Novelist Tan13. Those within world’s largest ethnic group14. Haze over19. Latte foam22. Man who always agrees23. *Chocolate tree

24. Sicker25. Queen’s headdress26. Song in German27. Battle royal28. Host DeGeneres29. Tuscan town32. Resting places ofthose cremated33. Scottish hero Rob36. S in AIDS38. Witch ride40. What carrots may help you do41. ______ someone’s services44. Shackles or fetters, archaic46. Gestures of victory or peace48. A signature or seal49. Coral reef island

50. Boundary line51. Orthodox sacred image52. Points downwind53. Indian flatbread54. Its competitors are famously overweight55. One better than bogey58. Short for debutante

Solutions on Page 56

48 W N C P A R E N T | J U L Y 2 0 0 9

June 29Gardening for KidsBlack Mountain Library hosts this lesson forchildren ages 5 and older. Registration requested.Call 250-4756. The library is at 105 DoughertySt.

Fun with Drawing, Lettering and Card MakingChildren ages 6 and older can get crafty at thisworkshop at 2 p.m. at North Asheville Library,1030 Merrimon Ave. Limited to 50 children. Call250-4752 to register.

June 29-30Craft programKids in third to sixth grades can make beadedhemp bracelets as part of Henderson CountyPublic Library’s Summer Reading Program. Regis-tration required. Call 697-4725 for information,or visit Henderson.lib.nc.us/hcpl_kids.html.◆ 11 a.m. June 29: Mills River, 4683 BoylstonHighway, 890-1850.◆ 2 p.m. June 30: Etowah Library, 101 BrickyardRoad, 891-6577.

June 29-July 2Tots on Toes dance campCamp activities include ballet and tap classes,crafts, games and snacks for ages 5-12. Runs 2-5p.m. For ages 5-12 years. Cost is $65. Tots onToes is a partnership with Henderson CountyParks and Recreation. For information and toregister contact Dory Jones at 684-9201 [email protected] and visit TotsOnToes.com.

June 30T-shirt workshopBring a cotton T-shirt or a bookbag to silkscreenat 1:30 p.m. at West Asheville Library, 942 Hay-wood Road. Call 250-4750 or e-mail [email protected].

‘Secret Life of the Mitochondria’Come and learn about the little known secret ofhow to give your mitochondria a boost, which mayimprove exercise performance, appetite control,reduce fat, increase muscle mass, and improveinsulin sensitivity. Sponsored by Asheville Centerfor Health Excellence and presented by Dr. RusselSher. At 7 p.m. at the Earth Fare communityroom, 66 Westgate Parkway. RSVP to 253-1727.Visit ashevillehealthcoach.com.

Through July‘Jack in the Park Tales’Blowing Rock Stage Company presents “Jack inthe Park Tales,” a duo of playlets using comedy,puppets and music. Performances are free.Presented at 10 and 11 a.m. July 2, 4, 9, 11, 18,23 and 25 and at noon on July 18. At the AnnieCannon Gardens (near the head of the GlenBurney Trail), off Laurel Lane in downtown Blowing

Rock. For more information, visit hayescenter.org.

July 1Shakare workshopMake your own musical instrument using beading,knots and gourds. At 10 a.m. at Historic JohnsonFarm, 3346 Haywood Road. Presented by LisaWhitfield. Cost is $10. For rising third-gradersthrough high school. Call 891-6585.

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PHOTO BY JOHN COUTLAKISThere’s more than just ribs at the Carolina Mountain Ribfest at the WNC Agricultural Center.This year’s event is July 10-12.

Skyland Library knitting groupA group for knitters and crocheters of all skilllevels that meets 6-8 p.m. at the Skyland/SouthBuncombe Library, 260 Overlook Road. Call250-6488 for information.

Starts July 1Play and Learn registrationParents/caregivers and children ages 2-5 inBuncombe County who are not in child care areinvited to attend a series of six free Play andLearn sessions. Offered at 10 or 11 a.m. Tuesdays,July 14-Aug. 18, and Wednesdays, July 15-Aug.19. Each 45-minute session will be held in theFamily Resource Center at Asheville City SchoolsPreschool, 441 Haywood Road in West Asheville.The program focuses on pre-literacy skills andeducational information for parents and is spon-sored by Smart Start of Buncombe County andACS Preschool. Activities include songs, puppets,dance, games and hands-on activities. Registerby e-mail ([email protected]) orphone (255-5423). New participants may registerJuly 1. Returning participants may register July 8.

July 1 and 15MOPSMothers of Preschoolers meets at Biltmore BaptistChurch in Arden on the first and third Wednesdaymornings of each month, 9:30-11:30. For moreinformation, call 687-1111.

July 2American Tall TalesFamily fun at 7 p.m. at East Asheville/OakleyLibrary, 749 Fairview Road. Call 250-4754 ore-mail [email protected] formore information.

Balloon Fairy Gets CreativeWatch the Balloon Fairy work wonders with bal-loons at 11 a.m. at Leicester Library, 1561 Alexan-der Road. Call 250-6480 or e-mail [email protected] for details.

Moms with MultiplesGroup for moms with multiples meets 7 p.m. thefirst Thursday of each month at the Women’sResource Center on Doctors Drive, behind MissionHospitals. For information, call 444-AMOM or visitashevillemom.com.

Preschool Play DateThe Health Adventure’s Preschool Play Date seriesprovides children ages 3-6 with a unique and safevenue to play and a chance for parents, grandpar-ents, and caregivers to socialize and bond. Itincludes hands-on take-away activities led by aneducator from the museum for children ages 3-6.Free for members or with museum admission.Runs 10:30-11:30 a.m. every first Thursday of themonth. No registration in required. Call 254-6373or visit thehealthadventure.org.

Rocketry classBeginner and intermediate rocketry classesoffered 10 a.m.-noon at Hands On! A Child’sGallery, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Eachstudent will build a rocket to launch at JacksonPark immediately following the class. Cost is $15($12 for members) for beginners and $25 ($22)for intermediates. Call 697-8333 to register orvisit handsonwnc.org.

Secret Agent 23-SkidooBe entertained with hip-hop for kids. Want a

preview? Visit secretagent23skidoo.com.◆ 11 a.m. at East Asheville Library, 902 TunnelRoad. Call 250-4738 or e-mail [email protected] for information.◆ 3 p.m. at Weaverville Library, 41 N. Main St.Call 250-6482 or e-mail [email protected] for information.

July 3Parents night outMalvern Hills Presbyterian Church offers a parentsnight out, 6-8 p.m. the first Friday of the month.Open to community children, ages 2-11. Pizzadinner included. MHPC also offers a program forcommunity youths ages 10 and older that runsconsecutively with the Parents Night Out program.Donations accepted, but not required. For moreinformation, call the Rev. Sean Maney at 242-8402 or visit malvernhillspca.com.

July 3-4Harambee FestivalA celebration of culture, heritage and unity, featur-ing a street festival, music, arts and crafts, foodand children’s activities. At Historic SeventhAvenue District and Sullivan Park, Hendersonville.Runs 6-10 p.m. July 3 and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. July 4.

July 4, 11 and 18Kids Corner MarketThe Kids Corner Market is a new series of freekids’ activities at the Asheville City Market offeredSaturdays throughout the summer to get childrenexcited about fresh, healthy food and physicalactivity. Runs 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the market,161 S. Charlotte St. For more information, visitasapconnections.org.

July 6‘Steve Somers, The Amazing Teacher!’At 1:30 p.m. at Fairview Library, 1 Taylor Road.Call 250-6484 or e-mail [email protected].

Starts July 6Waynesville Parks & Rec camps◆ Adventure Camp: For children ages 11-15.Three weeklong sessions, July 6-10, 20-24 andAug. 3-7, at the Old Armory in Waynesville. Camp-ers will learn about environmental responsibility,outdoor living skills, fitness activities and sports.Cost is $100 for Rec Center members and $130for nonmembers. For details or to register, callMichael Huffstetler at 456-9207 or e-mail [email protected].◆ British Soccer Camp: For ages 3-16. Cost andtimes vary by age. Runs July 27-31 at VanceStreet Park. Campers will receive a T-shirt, soccerball, soccer poster and evaluation. To sign up,visit challengersports.com, call 456-2030 ore-mail [email protected]◆ Environmental Camp: For kids ages 8-12, from10 a.m.-2 p.m. July 6-10. Activities include tripsto the Cradle of Forestry, Waynesville watershed,Lake Junaluska, DuPont State Forest and Waynes-ville Greenway. Campers will learn about green-ways and assist with plant or tree identification.Cost is $40 for Rec Center members, and $48nonmembers. Call 456-3507 or 456-2030.◆ Tennis Camp: For kids ages 12-17 from 11

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FAMILY CHOICE AWARDS CORRECTIONThe Family Choice Awards in the June issue of WNC Parent incorrectly listed the winnersin the Best After-school Program category. The Jewish Community Center of Ashevilleplaced first in this category. The YMCA was second, and Montessori Country Day came inthird.

PHOTO BY JOHN COUTLAKIS Kids enjoy the drumming circle at Camp Ruach at the Jewish Community Center onCharlotte Street in Asheville. The JCC offers toddler and preschool programs and after-school care during the school year and a summer camp program when school’s out.


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a.m.-1 p.m. July 20-22 at the Donnie PankiwTennis Center at Recreation Park. Registration is10-11 a.m. July 18. Cost is $60. For information,call Waynesville Recreation Center at 456-2030or e-mail [email protected].

July 6-7Puppet showHenderson County Public Library’s SummerReading Program presents a puppet show. Formore information, visit Henderson.lib.nc.us/hcpl_kids.html or call 697-4725.◆ 10 a.m. July 6: Main Library, 301 N. Washing-ton St., Hendersonville.◆ 2 p.m. July 6: Etowah Library, 101 BrickyardRoad.◆ 2 p.m. July 7: Fletcher Library, 120 LibraryRoad, off Hendersonville Road.

July 7Montreat MOPSCome join other moms for fun, laughter andfriendship. Group meets the first Tuesday of eachmonth, 6:30-8 p.m., fourth floor of the HenryBuilding at Geneva Place in Montreat. Free childcare. Call 669-8012, ext. 4001, to reserve a spot.

Mountain Story MagicAt 1:30 p.m. at West Asheville Library, 942 Hay-wood Road. Call 250-4750 or e-mail [email protected].

July 7 and 14Childbirth 101A two-session class for expectant parents coveringthe labor and delivery process, relaxation, breath-ing patterns, birth options, positioning and com-fort measures. Bring two pillows and a blanket.Two Tuesdays, July 7 and 14, 6:30-9 p.m. Cost is$90, or free with Medicaid. Registration required.At Pardee Health Education Center in Blue RidgeMall, Four Seasons Boulevard, Hendersonville.Call 692-4600 for information.

July 8Creative Clay Sculpting BonanzaAt 10 a.m. at South Asheville/Oakley Library, 749Fairview Road. Call 250-4754 or e-mail [email protected] for more information.

Holistic Parenting ForumThe Holistic Parenting Forum is a free group thatmeets monthly to provide an opportunity for adiverse community of parents committed tonatural living to gather. The group provides sup-port, education and resources. All meetings takeplace on the second Wednesday of every monthat Earth Fare in West Asheville from 6-8 p.m.Children are welcome. For more information, call230-4850 or e-mail [email protected]

La Leche League—HendersonvilleLa Leche League of Hendersonville offers informa-tion and support for pregnant or breastfeedingwomen. Meets on the second Wednesday of themonth at 10 a.m. at Unitarian Universalist Fellow-ship of Hendersonville, 2021 Kanuga Road.Babies and toddlers are welcome. For moreinformation, contact a leader: Andrea 676-6047,

Katie 808-1490, or MC 693-9899.

Origami Folding FrenzyLearn new folds, share favorites, and meet felloworigami enthusiasts. All levels welcome. Paper isavailable at the museum store or bring your own.Cost is museum admission. No club dues, justthe cost of museum admission. From 4-5 p.m.the second Wednesday of the month at TheHealth Adventure, 2 S. Pack Place. Call 254-

6373 or visit thehealthadventure.org.

Safety workshopLearn about safety with Safe Kids WNC at theEast Asheville Library, 902 Tunnel Road. Call250-4738 or e-mail [email protected].

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PHOTO BY ERIN BRETHAUER Alden McCall looks at her mom, Kimberly McCall, as they try to choose a fun origami paperat The Health Adventure’s Origami Folding Frenzy. The group is open to the public and meetsthe second Wednesday of the month.


July 9Creative storytelling programJoin Harry and Mary as they explore creativestorytelling at 11 a.m. at Leicester Library, 1561Alexander Road. Call 250-6480 or e-mail [email protected].

The Knitty GrittyA casual knitting group for knitters of all skilllevels at 6:30 p.m. at the East Asheville Library,902 Tunnel Road. Call 250-4738 for information.

Mission CreativeJoin magician Mark Daniel at 2:30 p.m. at SouthBuncombe/Skyland Library, 260 Overlook Road.Call 250-6488 or e-mail [email protected] for more information.

T-shirt printing craft workshopBring your own T-shirt to make a printing craft at 3p.m. at Weaverville Library, 41 N. Main St. Call250-6482 or e-mail [email protected] for information. Free ticketrequired; tickets available beginning June 25.

July 9-12Firefly GatheringThe Firefly Gathering is for people seeking todeepen and expand their connection with thenatural world. There will be more than 100classes available focusing on self-sufficiency andwilderness skills taught by teachers from aroundthe region and country. It offers learning for adultsand children, evening entertainment and on-sitecamping. Full admission starts at $75. Space is

limited. For details, visit fireflygathering.org ore-mail [email protected].

July 10Outdoor Movie NightJackson County Chamber of Commerce offers afree monthly showing of modern classics thissummer. See “Field of Dreams” at Monteith Parkin Dillsboro at 9 p.m., weather permitting. Light

refreshments available for purchase. For moreinformation, call 586-2155 or 800-962-1911.

July 10-12Carolina Mountain RibfestWorld-class professional barbecue rib vendorsfrom all over the country, live entertainment,amusement rides, arts and crafts and more. AtWNC Agricultural Center in Fletcher. Runs 4-11

p.m. July 10, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. July 11 and 11a.m.-7 p.m. July 12. Adults are $6, childrenyounger than 12 are free.

July 11Do Tell StoryfestEnjoy storytelling, fun, food and frolicking at thisfree event, from 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. at Henderson-ville Historic Courthouse to celebrate 100 years ofHenderson County 4-H. Hear stories, includingsome for children, from 1-5 p.m. Call 388-0247or visit dotellfestival.org for information.

Family Science DayGrowing Young Café offers fun, hands-on activitiesfor parents and children, 9-11 a.m. Reservationsrequired. Call 299-4420 or stop in at 611 TunnelRoad. For details, visit growingyoungcafe.com.

Fire safety programEast Asheville Library, at 902 Tunnel Road, pre-sents a program on fire safety at 11 a.m. Call250-4738 or e-amil [email protected].

‘Making Puppets Come Alive!Angels, Aliens and Animals’Bring an orphan sock to Black Mountain Libraryand make a puppet. Free ticket required. Ticketsmay be picked up at the library beginning June29. For ages 7-12. The library is at 105 DoughertySt. Call 250-4756 or e-mail [email protected].

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SPECIAL TO WNC PARENTChildren get creative at the Asheville Art Museum Spring Family Art Party. The next FamilyArt Party is July 12.

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July 12‘El Hombre Ciguena (The Stork Man)’The Asheville Puppetry Alliance presents LosTitiriteros de Binéfar, an acclaimed Spanishcompany, performing “El Hombre Cigüeña (TheStork Man)” at 2 p.m. at Diana Wortham Theatre.All seats $7. For tickets, call 257- 4530 or visitdwtheatre.com. For more information, visit ashevillepuppetry.com.

Family Art PartyThe Asheville Art Museum is hosting its Celebrate60! Family Art Party from 1-4 p.m. Celebrate themuseum’s anniversary with hands-on activities forall ages led by artists and live music by Hello fromTiny Town. Refreshments and supplies will beprovided. Admission to the museum will be free.For more information, visit ashevilleart.org.

Parenting programFocus is on how to parent a highly creative,intelligent and sensitive child, which includesdeepening your intuition as well as consentualparenting skills. Program led by Maureen Healy,parenting expert, as well as Karen Head, equinetherapist. Learning through power and wisdom ofhorses. Runs 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. At Equinection,561 Piercy Road, Green Mountain. For informa-tion, visit equinection.org, e-mail [email protected] or call 989-2514. Cost is$83. Also runs Aug. 9.

July 12-16Malvern Hills Presbyterian VBSMalvern Hills Presbyterian Church offers VacationBible School in the evenings. The church is at 2Bear Creek Road. For information, call 258-8624.

July 13La Leche League Monday morningsLa Leche League’s Monday group meets at 10

a.m. the second Monday of the month at FirstCongregational Church on Oak Street. Pregnantmoms, babies and toddlers are welcome. Forinformation, contact a leader: Susan 628-4438,Falan, 683-1999, or Tamara 505-1379.

July 13-17APD’s Junior Police AcademyThe Asheville Police Department’s Junior PoliceAcademy will be offered to teens ages 15-17.Runs 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. The program is de-signed to teach teenagers more about the depart-ment’s operations. Applicants will be accepted ona first come, first served basis. For more informa-tion or to obtain an application, call the CrimePrevention Unit at 259-5834.

Bounceville USA day campBounceville USA offers half-day camp from 9a.m.-noon Monday-Friday. Activities include 90minutes of bounce time, games and crafts. Forages 3 and older. Cost is $75. Call 696-4949 orvisit bouncevilleusa.com for reservation. Bounce-ville is at 614 Market St., Hendersonville.

WCU Theater CampExplore the world of theater during a weeklongsummer camp hosted by Western Carolina Uni-versity’s College of Fine and Performing Arts.Camp runs 9 a.m.-5 p.m. for children 8-13. Costis $125 with sibling discounts. Camp is limited to40 participants. Campers will perform a show oftheir own creation at 7 p.m. July 17, at the Fineand Performing Arts Center. For information or toregister, visit wcu.edu/fapac or contact PaulLormand at 227-2505 or [email protected]

Starts July 13YWCA swim lessonsThe next session of Red Cross certified swimlessons will begin July 13. Classes are offered forbabies, pre-schoolers, youth, teens and adults.The YWCA is at 185 S. French Broad Ave. Call254-7206, ext. 110, or visit ywcaofasheville.org.

July 14Firefly Family Night story timeAt 6:30 p.m. at Enka-Candler Library, 1404Sandhill Road. Call 250-4758 or e-mail [email protected].

Job search workshopEllen Westbrook of Mountain Area JobLink, willdiscuss job searching strategies during thesetough economic times 2 p.m. at the SkylandLibrary, 260 Overlook Road. The program is freeand open to the public. Call 250-6488.

Teen Open Mike nightAt 5 p.m. at Weaverville Library, 41 N. Main St.Call 250-6482 or e-mail [email protected] for information.

July 14-15Mountain Music programJoin Jeff Robbins for a program on mountainmusic, stories and dance through the HendersonCounty Public Library’s Summer Reading Program.For more information, visit Henderson.lib.nc.us/hcpl_kids.html or call 697-4725.◆ 10 a.m. July 14: Fletcher Library, 120 LibraryRoad, off Hendersonville Road.◆ 2 p.m. July 14: Main Library, 301 N. Washing-ton St., Hendersonville.◆ 10 a.m. July 15: Etowah Library, 101 BrickyardRoad.

July 15Clutter workshopRaye Ruffy, owner of At Your Service customconcierge and de-cluttering service, will present“De-Cluttering, It’s a Family Affair” at 10 a.m. atthe Administrative Offices of Buncombe CountyParks, Greenways and Recreations Services, 59Woodfin Place, Asheville. Register by July 10. Forinformation or to register call Grace Young at250-4265 or e-mail [email protected].

Fleece craft workshopGet crafty at this Making Fleece Creations pro-gram at 2 p.m. at North Asheville Library, 1030Merrimon Ave. Call 250-4752 to register. Limit 50children. For ages 4 and older.

July 15-16Craft programKids in third to sixth grades can make art cards aspart of Henderson County Public Library’s Sum-mer Reading Program. Registration is required.Call 697-4725 or visit Henderson.lib.nc.us/hcpl_kids.html for more information.◆ 2 p.m. July 15: Main Library, 301 N. Washing-ton St., Hendersonville, 697-4725.◆ 11 a.m. July 16: Etowah Library, 101 BrickyardRoad, 891-6577.◆ 2 p.m. July 16: Mills River Library, 4683 Boyl-ston Highway, 890-1850.

July 16Pottery programGet creative at Leicester Library with Jones Pot-

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SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT Asheville Police Department offers youths achance to learn about its operations at theJunior Police Academy, July 13-17.


tery. Program begins at 11 a.m. The library is at1561 Alexander Road. Call 250-6480 or [email protected] for informa-tion.

Professor Peter PuppetworkshopLearn about making puppets. At 3 p.m. atWeaverville Library, 41 N. Main St. Call 250-6482or e-mail [email protected] information. Free ticket required; tickets avail-able beginning July 2.

Roger Day performsChildren’s musician Roger Day brings his songsarea libraries.◆ At 11 a.m. at Enka-Candler Library, 1404Sandhill Road. Call 250-4758 or e-mail [email protected].◆ At 2 p.m. at South Asheville/Oakley Library,749 Fairview Road. Call 250-4754 or [email protected] for moreinformation.

July 16-17‘Snakes Alive!’See snakes and more!◆ At 2 p.m. July 16 at Fairview Library, 1 TaylorRoad. Call 250-6484 or e-mail [email protected].◆ At 3 p.m. July 17 at South Buncombe/SkylandLibrary, 260 Overlook Road. Call 250-6488 ore-mail [email protected] formore information. Free ticket required; ticketsavailable at the library after July 3.

July 16-18Book saleThe Friends of the Library at Pack MemorialLibrary will host a big book sale, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.The three-day sale will in the hallway outside thelibrary. Adult books will be buy one, get one andchildren’s books will be five for $1. All items inBookends, the library’s used book store, will alsobe included in the buy one-get one sale for theentire month of July. The library is at 67 HaywoodSt. Call 250-4700.

July 16-26Folkmoot USA International FestivalFor details on events like the Parade of Nationson July 17 and International Festival Day on July

25, as well as other activities, visit folkmootusa.org.

July 17‘Alice in Wonderland Jr.’Join Alice’s madcap adventures in Wonderland asshe chases the White Rabbit, races the DodoBird, gets tied up with the Tweedles, raps withbubble-blowing Caterpillar and beats the Queenof Hearts at her own game. This fast-paced stageadaptation of “Alice in Wonderland” presented byAsheville Arts Center features children ages 6-18.At 3 and 7 p.m. at Isaac Dixon Elementary, 125Hill St., Asheville.

July 18Bargain Book SaleFairview Friends of the Library will host its booksale, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. It will include fiction, featur-ing many popular mysteries and children’s books,hardbacks and paperbacks. All books are 25cents. The library is at 1 Taylor Road. For moreinformation call 250-6484 or e-mail [email protected].

Chalk It Up!

Sidewalk chalk art contest all day on Main Street,Hendersonville. Rain dates: July 25 and Aug. 1.

Hominy Mamas performThe Hominy Mamas will perform outside at Swan-nanoa Library, 101 W. Charleston St. Starts at 11a.m. Bring a chair or something to sit on. Call250-6486 or e-mail [email protected] for information.

Swim partiesThe Learning Community School, at 375 LakeEden Road in Black Mountain, hosts swim partiesfor kids in fifth-eighth grades. For more informa-tion, call 686-3080 or visit thelearningcommunityschool.org.

July 20La Leche League Monday eveningsLa Leche League meets at 7 p.m. the third Mon-day of the month at Awakening Heart on Merri-mon Avenue. Pregnant moms, babies and tod-dlers welcome. For information, contact a leader:Jen at 713-3707 or Yvette at 254-5591.

Mommy and Me luncheonThe Baby Place at Park Ridge Hospital in Hen-

dersonville welcomes new moms to its Mommyand Me luncheon, noon-1 p.m. the third Mondayof each month. Bring your new baby, visit withother new moms and enjoy a short speaker. Thisluncheon is in the hospital’s Private Dining Room,ground floor by the café, and will take place onthe third Monday of each month. Please call681-2229 to RSVP.

July 20-22Craft programKids in third to sixth grades can make art cards aspart of Henderson County Public Library’s Sum-mer Reading Program. Registration is required.Call 697-4725 or visit Henderson.lib.nc.us/hcpl_kids.html for more information.◆ 11 a.m. July 20: Edneyville Library, 2 FirehouseLane, Edneyville, 685-0110.◆ 2 p.m. July 21: Green River Library, 50 GreenRiver Road, Zirconia, 697-4969.◆ 2 p.m. July 22: Fletcher Library, 120 LibraryRoad, off Hendersonville Road, 687-1218.

July 21Bedtime story timeAt 6:30 p.m. at Weaverville Library, 41 N. Main St.Call 250-6482 or e-mail [email protected] for information.

Breast-feeding classLearn the art of breast-feeding. Class coversbreast-feeding basics to help give moms a goodstart. From 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Pardee HealthEducation Center in Blue Ridge Mall, Four Sea-sons Boulevard, Hendersonville. Call 692-4600.Class is free; registration is not required.

‘Winged Wolves and Mountainswith Eyes’Learn about collages at this workshop at 11 a.m.at Swannanoa Library, 101 W. Charleston St. Call250-6486 to register. For ages 7 and older.Program will last 90 minutes; bring a lunch.

July 22Science Stories and CraftsAt 10 a.m. at South Asheville/Oakley Library, 749Fairview Road. Call 250-4754 or e-mail [email protected] for details.

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PHOTO BY JULIE BALLA snake curls around Sydney Holcombe’s neck during a “Snakes Alive!” presentation at theFletcher library. See “Snakes Alive!” this summer July 16-17 at Buncombe County libraries.

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Job search workshopEllen Westbrook of Mountain Area JobLink, willdiscuss job searching strategies during thesetough economic times 6 p.m. at the SwannanoaLibrary, 101 W. Charleston. The program is freeand open to the public. Call 250-6486 for moreinformation.

July 21-23Sam Bartlett’s ‘Stuntology’◆ At 1:30 p.m. July 21 at West Asheville Library,942 Haywood Road. Call 250-4750 or [email protected]. Freeticket required; pick up tickets at the librarybeginning July 7. For ages 6-60.◆ At 2 p.m. July 22 at North Asheville Library,1030 Merrimon Ave. Call 250-4752 to register.Limit 50 children. For ages 6 and older.◆ At 11 a.m. July 23 at Leicester Library, 1561Alexander Road. Call 250-6480 or e-mail [email protected] for information.◆ At 3 p.m. July 23 at Weaverville Library, 41 N.Main St. Call 250-6482 or e-mail [email protected] for information. Freeticket required; tickets available beginning July 9.

July 23‘Open Wide’ dental healthprogramSmart Start’s Preschool Dental Program, Open

Wide, promotes healthy teeth among preschoolchildren. Interactive puppets and songs will teachthe kids about the importance of dental hygiene,and a registered dental hygienist will be availableto check teeth and answer questions. This pro-gram is free for children of all ages. At 11 a.m. atSwannanoa Library, 101 W. Charleston St. Call250-6486.

July 24-26Bele ChereFestival in downtown Asheville with entertainment,food and more. Visit belecherefestival.com formore information.

July 24-28, 30-31and Aug. 1-2‘Day Out with Thomas’Take a 25-minute ride on Thomas the Tank En-gine, meet Sir Topham Hatt and enjoy storytelling,live music, games and more at Great SmokyMountains Railroad in Bryson City. Tickets are $18for ages 2 and older. Visit gsmr.com for tickets.

July 25Bill Grimsley Creates MagicAt 11 a.m. at Black Mountain Library, 105 Dough-erty St. Free ticket required; tickets available atlibrary starting July 13. For ages 5 and older. Call250-4756 or e-mail [email protected] for information.

Community talent showSee what talent the community has to offer at 3

p.m. at the East Asheville Library, 902 TunnelRoad. Call 250-4738 or e-mail [email protected].

Lego BlastHistoric Johnson Farm presents Lego Blast. Bringyour own unassembled Legos and build on a StarWars theme. Prizes will be awarded. From 10a.m.-noon. The farm is at 3346 Haywood Road,Hendersonville. Call 891-6585.

July 27-Aug. 1‘Wizard of Oz’See a production of the “Wizard of Oz,” presentedby Henderson County Public Library. For moreinformation, visit Henderson.lib.nc.us/hcpl_kids.html.◆ 2 p.m. July 27: Mills River Town Hall, 5046Boylston Highway.◆ 2 p.m. July 28: Etowah Library, 101 BrickyardRoad, 891-6577.◆ 2 p.m. July 29: Fletcher Library, 120 LibraryRoad, off Hendersonville Road, 687-1218.◆ 2 p.m. July 30: Edneyville Library, 2 FirehouseLane, 685-0110.◆ 11 a.m. July 31: Green River Library, 50 GreenRiver Road, Zirconia, 697-4969. ◆ 2 p.m. Aug. 1: Main Library, 301 N. WashingtonSt., Hendersonville, 697-4725.

July 28BirthNetwork of WNCBirthNetwork of WNC is a nonprofit, grass-rootsmovement based on the belief that birth canprofoundly affect physical, mental and spiritual

well-being. The group meets 7-8 p.m. the fourthTuesday at the Pardee Health Education Center inBlue Ridge Mall, 1800 Four Seasons Blvd, Hen-dersonville. This month’s topic is “Yoga and Birth”with yoga instructor Emily VanEm, who will shareher experience of natural labor. For information,e-mail [email protected] or visitbirthnetwork.org.

Black Mountain Library KnittersA casual knitting group of knitters of all skill levelsat 7p.m. at the Black Mountain Library, 105Dougherty St. Call the library at 250-4756 oremail [email protected] more information.

Imagination PaginationworkshopKids can learn to make a book at this workshopat 2 p.m. At Enka-Candler Library, 1404 SandhillRoad. Call 250-4758 or e-mail [email protected].

Leicester Library KnittersA casual knitting group for knitters of all skilllevels at 6:30 p.m. at the Leicester Library. Thelibrary is at 1651 Alexander Road. Call 250-6480.

Pardee parenting classesClasses at Pardee Health Education Center inBlue Ridge Mall, Four Seasons Boulevard, Hen-dersonville. Call 692-4600 for information.Classes are free. Registration is not required.◆ Infant care class: Learn the basics of infantcare, 6:30-8 p.m.◆ Prime-time with a pediatrician: Learn from alocal pediatrician what to expect with a newbornin your home, 8-9 p.m.

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July 29BalloonFairyJoin the BalloonFairy at 2 p.m. atNorth AshevilleLibrary, 1030Merrimon Ave.Call 250-4752 toregister. Limit 50children. All ageswelcome.

July 30FriendlyMetal RobotsBring your creativity for this program at 11 a.m. atLeicester Library, 1561 Alexander Road. Call250-6480 or e-mail [email protected] for information.

Mod Podge ManiaGet creative at this crafty program at 6:30 p.m. atEast Asheville Library, 902 Tunnel Road. Call250-4738 or e-mail [email protected].

Mountain Story MagicAt 3 p.m. at Weaverville Library, 41 N. Main St.Call 250-6482 or e-mail [email protected] for information. Free ticketrequired; tickets available at the library startingJuly 16.

Aug. 3-7Soccer campN.C. Mountain Area Youth Soccer Associationhosts European professional soccer players tocoach its European Soccer Skills Camp at NorthBuncombe High School. Camp is for childrenages 7-18 and runs 9 a.m.-noon for children 7-9and 3-6 p.m. for ages 10-18. Cost is $119. Regis-ter by July 29. For more information, visit ncmay-sa.com.

Ends. Aug. 6Woodsy Owl’s Curiosity ClubThe Cradle of Forestry offers a weekly summernature program in which kids help Woodsy Owl inhis conservation mission to “lend a hand, care forthe land!” The program is for children ages 4-7with a variety of outdoor-oriented activities thatwill explore a forest-related theme. Meets 10:30a.m.-noon Thursdays through Aug. 6, rain orshine. Closed-toe shoes recommended. Cost is$4 per child per program. Accompanying adultsreceive half-price admission ($2.50). Reserva-tions requested. Call 877-3130 or visit cradleof-forestry.com for information.

OngoingRoots and Wings preschoolRoots and Wings School of Arts Visual Arts Pre-school is now enrolling. The new school will offerclasses with no more than nine students forchildren ages 3-6. The school is at the Cathedralof All Souls in Biltmore Village. Children will learnthrough drawing, painting, collage and mixedmedia, photography and design. The schooloperates year-round. Enrollment forms are avail-

able at rootsandwingsarts.com/pre-school_main.html.

‘My Mom Is Having a Baby’A free program to help children ages 3-8 un-derstand, accept and anticipate the changes thatwill happen as the family prepares for the birth ofthe new baby. Each child will see and hold life-like models that show how a baby grows anddevelops, make a kite mobile for the new baby’sroom, receive an activity/coloring book and tourthe Mother/Baby Unit at Mission Hospital to seewhere mom and baby will stay. Program runs 4-5p.m. the second and fourth Mondays at MissionHospital. To register, call 254-6373, ext. 316. Formore information, visit thehealthadventure.comand click on the “Programs” tab.

Mommy and Me for BabiesThis is a free group that meets weekly in twolocations to provide an opportunity for new par-ents to gather. On Mondays, meet at the newWoodfin YMCA. Mommy/baby yoga for pre-craw-lers is 11-11:45 a.m.; forum is noon-1 p.m. OnTuesdays, meetings are at Reuter Family YMCA inthe Mission Wellness Resource Center Room.Mommy/baby yoga for pre-crawlers is at 10:30a.m.; guest speaker/open discussion is at 11:30;walk and talk starts at 12:45 p.m. Please call213-8098 or e-mail [email protected] toregister.

Toddler FunToddler Fun is a free group that provides anopportunity for parents to have some structuredfun with their children ages 1-3 including 45minutes of songs, stories, finger-plays, parachuteplay and more. At 10 a.m. Mondays at the newWoodfin YMCA and 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays at theReuter Family YMCA. To register, call 213-8098 or

e-mail [email protected].

Asheville Area Music TogetherRegistration is now open for Music Together, aninternationally recognized early childhood musicprogram for children age 0-5 and the adults wholove them. Each class is a rich, playful, familyexperience full of new and traditional songs andchants. Summer session begins June 15. Freedemo classes available. Contact Kari Richmond [email protected] or 545-0990. For moreinformation, visit AshevilleAreaMT.com or mu-sictogether.com

Park Ridge Hospital’s Baby Placechildbirth classesSeven-week session of classes offered 7-9 p.m.Wednesdays in the Duke Room at Park RidgeHospital, 100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville. Costis $25 total for the series. Start at any point inthe class cycle. Please call Sheri Gregg at 681-2229 for information or to register.

Asheville Youth CyclingAsheville Youth Cycling practices from 4:30-6p.m. Thursdays at Carrier Park in Asheville. Thegroup teaches cycling and racing basics and hasa fleet of loaner fixed-gear bikes for kids to ride.For more information, contact Lesli Meadows [email protected].

Preschool classesMerrimon Avenue Baptist Church Preschool is nowaccepting enrollment for preschool classes forchildren ages 1 to pre-kindergarten. Classes are 9a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays. Cost is$15/day. A structured pre-kindergarten classfocusing on kindergarten readiness is available.Call Sara Calloway at 252-2768, ext. 315, ore-mail [email protected] for details.

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SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

56 W N C P A R E N T | J U L Y 2 0 0 9

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